Monsters and Good Guys
I had a conversation with my 2 year old today. It went like this:him: Mommy, I see a monster!
me: where?
him: (eyes wide) Over there! I seeeee it!
me: I don't think we have any monsters here. I think we are safe in our house.
(Long pause, Then a tentative search around the living room drapes.)
him: Do you know what, mommy?
me: what?
him: I looked around and there are no monsters, and no parakeets, and no Tigers.
me: That's a relief.
him: yes. I think that a good guy got them.
The Lightning Bolt Sweater (with racing stripes)
Pattern: Knitting Pure & Simple Children's Tunic
Size: Age 6-8
Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Cranberry, Avocado, and Blue Ink
Also, wool felt from various sources for appliquéd stripes and lightning bolt.
Needles: US size 7 and 9
Modifications: I added a kangaroo pocket because I love kangaroo pockets (and so does the big boy). I edged it in seed stitch instead of garter and made the hood entirely seed stitch to give it more body. I love the way the hood turned out.
This sweater was SO quick to knit. It languished for almost 2 months in a knitting bag while I avoided adding the lightning bolt. I fretted over the perfect shape, color and placement and engaged all my knitting friends in endless analysis on the subject.
Finally, one night, I (rather frantically) grabbed the scissors and hacked out the perfect bolt and sewed it on. I couldn't let myself think about it anymore.
I sewed the stripes and lightning bolt onto the sweater with a very small, sharp needle and teeny, tiny stitches. Ooooh, I love the details! I was so calm and happy as I made those little stitches.
One thing I don't care for: The Wool of the Andes yarn is super pilly. After only two wearings, the sleeves and sides are not looking so hot and I had envisioned a really solid, wears-like-iron sweater. Ah well, I guess that's what you get for 1.99/ball. Also, it probably doesn't help that I knit it on size 9 needles. Next time I'll knit it with Peace Fleece or some really nice, scratchy tweed.
The other sweater is nearly finished. Stay tuned.Labels: two racing stripe sweaters