Two New FOs: A Sweater and Some Mitts

Although I haven't blogged much lately, I have been knitting. In fact, I've been doing a lot of knitting, and I have two new FOs to show you!


Pattern: Mirabella Cardigan by Jennifer Tallapaneni (Interweave Knits Spring 2008)
Yarn: Blue Sky Alpacas Dyed Cotton

This cardi was something of an impulse knit, but I'm very happy with how it turned out. I started this sweater back in June and knit a little here and there. The knitting itself went very quickly and the pattern was very easy to understand. I even learned a few new techniques: double knitting and a little crochet. It was actually the crochet that held me back from finishing it sooner, but it was very easy in the end.

The pattern has lots of nice touches. I love the ribbing along the front edges and all the little buttons.


I love the hem--it adds a very neat finish. The darts are also a nice touch.


I do need to block it. It's not tight, but the buttons gape a bit around the bust, and I'm sure some blocking will fix that. I loved the cotton yarn, but I'm hoping this sweater does not grow to gargantuan proportions when wet. Cross your fingers!

My second FO is a pair of fingerless mitts...


Pattern: Welted Fingerless Gloves from Churchmouse Yarns & Teas
Yarn: Manos Silk Blend

I picked up this pattern and yarn while on a quick overnight trip to Seattle a couple weeks ago. Joel and I were planning to rent bikes and tour Bainbridge Island, but the weather didn't cooperate. Instead, we toured the town and came across Churchmouse Yarns & Teas. I swear that I wasn't planning to buy any yarn on this trip, but this was just the nicest store. Everyone there was so friendly--the man who rang me up actually invited me to "sit down and knit a few stitches". Beautiful yarn and helpful/nice staff--my idea of the perfect yarn store!

Anyway, the pattern was free with purchase of the yarn. The mitts were super fun to knit and super quick, too. I finished both in a couple nights. The yarn is a dream--I love a silk/wool blend and the color is gorgeous.

The shop model was adorned with three tiny shell buttons, and I think this is what drew me to the pattern in the first place. I searched my button box for a few options, but couldn't find quite what I was looking for.


I like these crystal buttons, but I think they are a little too big.


I actually love this big button--it has a slightly retro feel. Alas, I only have one of these buttons in my box though! So the search begins for the perfect buttons, but in the meantime I will wear them without.

What's next? I've been going through all my WIPs (specifically sweaters), and I'm a little alarmed at the rate at which they are piling up. So I'm hoping to finish a sweater or two or three before beginning any new ones. At least that is my goal for the rest of the year. I've decided accessories are OK, but no big projects. Wish me luck!