Saturday, September 8, 2012

Change of plans

You may remember that I recently finished up a stealth project. It was suppose to be for Mom's birthday, hence the secrecy. However, as soon as I got it off the blocking board and around my neck, I knew it was no good. Mom and I are both very sensitive to itch.... and this yarn had it.
 The yarn is Queensborough Farm Alpacas Laurel's Lofty - It's an alpaca/cashmere/merino blend. Mom got it in a Ravelry trade. I dyed it a nice garnet a few months ago. It was really nice to knit with - a little rustic, but still felt soft - just not so nice to wear

But all is not lost. It's now going to be gifted to Dave's grandma for Christmas. She's not as sensitive as Mom and I, and quite often wears her scarves outside of her coat.

A little bit about the pattern....

The pattern is Indian Feathers  - a nice quick knit. It only took about a week - and most of the knitting was done over a weekend.
  I think it's definitely more of a scarf than a shawlette. The pattern calls for just a few beads in the centre of each feather, but I added more. I chose a dark purple bead to stand out against the garnet yarn.

So, that's another skein out of the stash and another project in the Christmas box.... but I still have to figure out what to get Mom for her birthday....


9 comments:

Rachelle said...

It's a lovely looking shawl, pity about the itch. Maybe you should dye up some more desert cat and make one using that?

Anonymous said...

The scarf is truly beautiful. Could you make the same thing, but less itchy?

Monika said...

Lovely shawlette! Too bad about the itch factor. I find that yarns with alpaca in it are on the itchy side, still soft as you said, but just a tad uncomfortable against the skin.

gayle said...

I was just looking at that pattern night before last...
Pity that something so pretty turned out itchy. Was it enough fun to knit that you'd want to make another?

Araignee said...

Beautiful pattern. I have been eyeing that one for some time myself.

Minding My Own Stitches said...

Pretty shawlette! I can't bear most alpaca blends against my skin either. There are so many pretty sock yarns but the idea just makes my feet itch :)

Knitting Linguist said...

That is beautiful! I'm sorry that it didn't turn out to be right for your mom (but glad you found someone who'll love it when they get it).

Delusional Knitter said...

That's too bad the yarn is a bit scratchy! It is very beautiful, love the extra beads!

Unknown said...

What a beautiful lace pattern for a fancy scarf! Love it. I am surprised to hear that other gals find alpaca to be a bit itchy. I love working with alpaca because I find it so soft and wearable. LOL. I'm glad you will be giving the scarf to someone who will truly appreciate your fine work and enjoy wearing it.