Life is too short to knit with ugly yarn.
September 9th, 2003 by Donna
I’m already contemplating what to start once the knit and purl scarf is complete. I wanted to use the sweater I have in mind from Pure and Simple Knits to discover a new yarn at a real bargain. My knitting theory? I’m convinced that there’s a great, flowing current of knitting materials and yarns for sale if you’re willing to look - after all, people de-stash and yarns get discontinued all the time - don’t they have to go somewhere?
But as I sifted through hundreds of listings and hopped from website to website looking for bargains, I realized that I could easily get stuck with a yarn I didn’t love just because I was anxious to get something on sale. Am I really going to love that orange color day after day? I’d be tired of my sweater before I ever put it on.
But the colors that make me go “oooh!” are ones like Volgassippi Blue or Latvian Lavender from Peace Fleece - those knit up at four stitches to the inch and the Pure and Simple pattern I have calls for five. I could switch patterns, to something like The Incredible, Custom-fit Raglan Sweater, but I have a pattern already that I like just fine. Or at least I thought I did. I know the knitting world seems to be divided on the use of bobbles, but isn’t this a great sweater? And these colors make me go “ooh!” Between their great prices and excellent selection of Peace Fleece and Mission Falls yarns and kits, Camilla Valley Farm appears to be quite a resource.
Anyway, back to our 5 stitches to the inch problem. Several Knitlisters recommended Brown Sheep NatureSpun, one recommended Cascade 220, and another pointed out that PeaceFleece comes in a DK weight. Still another person recommended Lorna’s Laces; how beautiful. After even more looking, I may go with Berroco Sensuwool - there’s quite a deal here.
As proof that I’m a color hound as well as a bargain hunter, I think my next book purchase will be Fair Isle Sweaters Simplified; conveniently, it qualifies for free shipping if I buy The Purl Stitch. Twist my arm! Look at all the money I’m saving!
3 Responses to “Life is too short to knit with ugly yarn.”
I’m making a raglan with Peace Fleece DK and Brown Sheep Naturespun right now. I’ve got to say, I love them both, but you can’t beat the Peace Fleece colors.
Donna, regarding the 5 stitches to the inch thing…this is all assuming you use the size needles they recomend and that you knit to gauge (many knitters don’t). You may be able to use that yarn and downsize the needles to get the gauge you need for the knitting pattern. Best advice? (and you instinctively know this: knit what you love. it’s more fun, and that’s the point, right?)
if the peacefleece says 4 to an inch, i’m sure you could get 5 just using a different needle than they recommend! and if that’s the color you really love, i say go for it!!