I Like Big Swatches & I Cannot Lie
My larger projects are winding down and the pattern I’m working on is nearly ready to go so my mind has turned to what’s next; a cardigan or jumper.
The more I chat to other crocheters or knitters, I realise I’m a bit of an anomaly. I love swatching. It allows me to get to know the yarn; how it drapes, how it will feel while making with it, what it wants to be. It’s like opening a new notebook, there’s so much potential. Also it’s very soothing, there’s no pressure. It’s just a square. There’s enough counting to make it interesting but not taxing. I also find it soothing. It helps me think and sort through other things floating around in my brain like what to have for dinner or design ideas.
I started swatching with some Drops Nepal in my stash. I think I’ve still 1700m left so totally enough for a Tin Can Knits Harvest and then some more.
While I was at it, I swatched up some lovely soft Mirasol Sami. I just love the colorway’s soft tones and soothing blues. It may be a Tin Can Lush or something else with 3/4 sleeves.
All that’s left to do is take the gauge and wash them up with the rest of my hand knits then take the gauge again. I usually make my swatches massive to get a better idea of how the yarn will drape and it normally gives a better idea of my true tension. If the swatch is too small, I tend to hold it tightly which makes me knit or crochet tighter than I would on the actual item.
There’s no more making scheduled for the week since my shoulder is beyond sore. It’s been a day of pain killers with a rotation of the hot water bottle and TENS machine. Hopefully it will be sorted by the end of the week so I can enjoy uninterrupted making time next week when the sprog heads back to play school.
I’m looking forward to a bit of quiet time that doesn’t come with sinking fear that he’s gotten into something he shouldn’t had 🙂
If you’ve had a long weekend too, I hope you had a wonderful time. If you’re sat in work right now, hope it’s going well and that the afternoon flies by.
x H
