Mainly, this is because I didn't like the size 3 needles (bottom part of swatch) right off the bat, so I didn't need to test bigger needles. I just knit the no-repeat part of the basketweave pattern until I felt I had enough fabric for a basic idea of the yarn/needle combination, then divided the same swatch into a new section with garter stitch and started in on the 2s.
I liked the 2s much better right off the bat (top part of swatch)-- and that is also when I realized that I was making the incorrect assumption about the left (right?) slanting decrease. (I always get the directions mixed up because as far as I am concerned, the top of the decrease is pointing in one direction and the bottom is pointing in another...Anyway, the decrease that is usually ssk.)
Obviously, Melanie used the sl1, k1, psso decrease for a very good reason, as you can see on the size-2 portion of my swatch, where the pattern is much more defined.
Even considering my flub on the size 3 portion, I still think that size 2 is a better needle for this yarn (Misti Alpaca lace). Any other thoughts/opinions?
6 comments:
Good for you to take the time to knit a proper swatch! I agree that the size 2 needle looks much better with your very fine lace yarn. It's harder to discern the stitch detail of the left leaning decreases from the picture, but if you like the look of the sl1, k1, psso then by all means use it! I can't wait to see how your stole progresses!
{{{hugs}}}
Kristina
I also used Misti Alpaca Lace for mine, but I used a US 3. Mine (blocked and finished) looks somewhere in between both of your sections in your swatch.
Gauge is such a funny, and very individualistic thing, isn't it?
I agree with you - the size 2 swatch looks tighter and more defined...
I know I should have swatched! I was going to, but I didn't, just cast on. Now that I read your post I am afraid that after I've knit a few inches I will realize my mistake!
Oh well, it's not a race is it?
And you are going to be so glad you took the time to get it right!
One thing I've discovered is that lace in large chunks - like a stole can behave differently than lace in small chunks - like a swatch. So the first few inches of my actual project MAY end up being a mega-swatch despite my better efforts.
Thanks for the feedback everybody! I feel better casting on today now...
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