Diamonds for Doodle
Knitting was a skill I learned on a whim in college and now, 16 years later (oh my god), it’s one of my favorite activities. I love that it’s both creative and methodical. I love that it can be as simple or complex as I want or need. I find it incredible to look at a finished product and think about how the whole thing is just one long piece of string arranged in a special way to create something new.
I’ve really started to love making kids sweaters. They’re a great way to practice new techniques without a huge time commitment, and the girls always need new sweaters. This December I volunteered to be a test knitter for Big Red Balloon’s new design, String of Diamonds. They are one of my go-to designers for kids sweaters. Hailing from Iceland, Big Red Balloon’s designs are full of the warmth and texture befitting a nordic winter. This design features a doubled-up collar and a single cable panel for extra warmth and squish. The pattern was released on Sunday (January 9) and is available in her Ravelry store.
If you’ve been wanting to try knitting a sweater, this is a great pattern to start with. The structure is relatively simple, and the cable adds a lovely detail that also helps create a flattering fit. Shelter by Brooklyn Tweed is a nice starchy new wool that really showcases structural details and finishes very nicely. I especially love the earthy quality of their fibers and colors.
Doodle loves her “new purple sweater” and has barely taken it off since it came off the needles. Now, if only I could get her to stand still for a photo…
Pattern: Big Red Balloon Designs
Yarn: Brooklyn Tweed Shelter
LYS: Westport Yarns