Dirt and Figs

 

Finally, pictures of the finished Dirt Sweater (aka, the FLAK sweater).  It really is the exact color of the dirt in our yard.  I have to wonder what the people who name yarn colors are thinking--mocha heather?  Dirt heather.  But I like it, and more importantly, so does the Boy.

I did find that the yarn got very fuzzy during the knitting of this--almost like it was fulling on its own.  As the sweater is meant to be a heavy outdoor work sweater, we'll call that good.  One thing I would have done differently (had I but known) is to work less extra material at the armholes.  Assuming that the Boy wears the sweater over a long-sleeved shirt, however, the bulk around the armholes may be less noticeable.

I also would have been more careful when picking up stitches for the sleeves.  I don't like the fact that there almost appears to be a seam line there.

All in all, though, I'm happy with how the sweater turned out, and I learned a bunch about the design and fit of aran sweaters.  Janet Szabo did an excellent job of explaining the concepts step-by-step, and she didn't leave out what to me is the most important part of any instruction--why things are done the way they are.  I'll now be able to take this knowledge and apply it to other types of sweaters.  Thanks, Janet!  I really wish there were more designers willing to teach this way, via the internet--it's something I'd happily pay for. 

In other news, figs!

Comments

[twig]

Boy? *laugh* I consider a boy about 3 feet tall.

Gorgeous FLAK, and I love the color. I'm an earth tone person.

[the boy]

I just wanted to see myself online. Woo-Hoo, I'm...nearly...famous...kind-of.
Certainly happy to be taller than 3 feet!

[Stephanie the "Dealer"]

oh my - I had no idea about that FLAK - that is one awesome sweater (and I'm printing out the FLAK lessons now, thanks for the enabling ;) )

Thanks for reading and the blogiversary wishes - they are much appreciated!

[carol]

I see you love twilight, and knit... There is a twilight Themed sock club I am starting, It has 2 spots left. It has been advertised extensively on ravelry... Just an invitation to you to check out my yarns, my store blog for reviews of the base, and let a fellow twilight knitter know about an awesome opportunity. The patterns and colors are 100% book inspired!