the hourglass

Yes, I have finally decided to join the many other people who have made the 'hourglass sweater' from Last Minute Knitted Gifts by Joelle Hoverson. I had wanted to make this sweater before I knew the online knitting community even existed and had no clue that this pattern would be so popular. At the time, I didn't feel ready to tackle something adult-sized...too much yarn...too many stitches...too much stockinette. Lately, I've been itching to make something a little more time consuming, but not necessarily more complicated or challenging. Possibly something I could wear. Something simple + comfortable. A sweater, in the softest pale grey yarn...

the yarn :: Rowan Baby Alpaca DK in color 'southdown'

this yarn is beautifully soft + truly indulgent, a favorite already

Deciding to knit this sweater meant temporarily giving up my beloved bamboo needles and investing in some addi-turbo circulars. I have knit about five inches of the first sleeve and I must admit that they really are quite fast and very smooth. Some other benefits: you can't lose one of them + beagles don't like them as a snack. The drawbacks: they don't have the same warmth or natural feeling + my hands start to ache sooner. We'll see how it goes...