pattern preview

I'm currently working on a few fall designs for the lovely Lynn @ Knit 1 in Chicago and here's a glimpse of the first one.

I wanted to create a simple classic shape and I love a boat neck neckline. This piece is knit side to side (cuff to cuff) from the top down on #9's with Aslan Trends Invernal (color #22/295yds); a rabbit angora, merino & polyamide blend that is gorgeous! The pattern will consist of this sweater with 2 variations, the variations being a cuff & neck treatment in either crochet or knit for those looking for a little something extra. I'll post photos of the variations when completed. I love the way this sweater looks and feels. This will be hard to part with!

On to a totally different subject but it does have to do with patterns. Last week my friend Terry sent me a link to a thread on Ravelry all about the fine print at the bottom of patterns stating what you can/cannot do with the pattern. It was quite fortuitous that she did as I was contacted by someone today who was questioning exactly what the crux of the Ravelry discussion was and that is the fine print that reads "for home knitting use only and are not to be knit for resale".

When Terry brought this thread to my attention I started thinking about how I should change the fine print on my patterns to read, "OK to knit for resale". I'm flattered that someone who is trying to make a go of selling hand knits would think they could make some money using my designs and frankly if they did it without asking what could I do? If I found out someone in Russia was making & reselling my designs at a craft fair or out of their home would I really go to the trouble of legally trying to stop them? Now if they were mass producing them it might be a little annoying and if they were Michael Kors I would want a job!

For me it's all about giving credit where credit is due. For anyone who has asked if they could sell items knit from my patterns I ask they give me credit as the designer and send photos because I like to see the finished piece; and for those of you who have purchased  my patterns and are questioning if you can make it to sell please do just don't forget the courtesy of crediting me. And please email me if you do, I like to know where I can see your goods.

the Collar (crochet)

Another request via etsy today, this time for a crochet version of the Collar. This is a super simple crochet project, perfect for teaching a newbie increasing and with a fat hook & chunky yarn it works up super fast!

Materials:

Yarn:

I used leftover Magnum from my stash, probably 1 skein worth (123yds) 200yds at the most. 

Hooks:

A size J for the buttonhole & finishing. For the collar itself the hook I used wasn't sized. Measuring it the shaft is 2” around. If 1” = 25.4mm that’s a big hook! Lion Brand makes an S hook and this site: Jenkins Woodworking makes U & V hooks or use whatever size will give you 1.25sts = 1"

Stitch:

Double Crochet

Unlike the knit version that casts on the outer edge and works in towards the neck; the crochet version starts with the buttonhole/neck edge and works out.

 The finished neck measurement not including the button loop is 16".

Pattern:

Using a size J hook chain 8 or 9 (depending on the button size) and join with a slip stitch. This is the button hole. Change to the larger hook and chain 28 (@ 17" slightly pulled). Chain more if you need a larger neck opening. I found the finished neck size is an inch shorter than the measurement of the starting chain. Starting in the 3rd ch from the hook work 3 DC's into each stitch 10 times; then work 4 DC into each stitch 5 times; work 3 DC's into each stitch to end (10x's). 

Note: for a more ruffled look work 4 or 5 DC's into each stitch. 

Ch 2 and turn; DC across working 2 DC's into the first & last stitches. Repeat this row once more. Collar should measure @5"; for a wider collar repeat last row until desired width.Weave in ends, attach a button and enjoy!

This collar, like the knit version was created with adults in mind. It's a little big on my model here so if you're making it for a child make adjustments according to their neck size.