Endless Cardi Shawl Crochet-Along with JENNIFER HANSEN--SEPT 2009

[Crochetville LLC]

Teacher: Jennifer Hansen, stitchdiva (http://www.crochetville.org/forum/member.php?u=31456), Stitch Diva Studios (http://www.stitchdiva.com)

Class Cost: $30.00, 4-week class

EXTRA REQUIREMENT: If you do not already own a copy of this pattern, you will need to purchase the pattern (http://www.stitchdiva.com/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=SDS-056) on the Stitch Diva website for a cost of $7.00. You may purchase a downloadable version of the pattern (no shipping/tax) or a print copy delivered by mail (shipping and tax charges apply).

Registration Dates: Registration is now open. Click here (http://www.crochetville.org/forum/showthread.php?t=61284) to register.

Class Begins: Friday, September 18, 2009.

Skill Level: Intermediate. Uses repetitive stitch patterns, NO shaping, and simple finishing.

7432 7431 7430

Watch Jennifer's youtube video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rAisSJyR-Jo&eurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.stitchdiva.com%2FProductInfo .aspx%3Fproductid%3DSDS-056&feature=player_embedded) showing the different ways the knit version of this shawl can be worn. The crochet version can be worn in similar ways.

Description: Join designer Jennifer Hansen, nationally recognized designer and teacher, for four weeks as we work together to create this beautiful shawl that can be worn in a variety of ways. Remember, this class is a Crochet-Along: the class fee covers Jennifer's knowledge, experience, and skills as designer of this shawl and her direct accessibility to all students in the class for the duration of the class.

Jennifer will be able to answer any questions you may have regarding the shawl pattern as it is written, while using the recommended yarn weight. She will not be able to resize the pattern for you if you choose to use a different yarn weight, although she may be able to offer basic suggestions for you to consider should you choose to resize the pattern yourself.

Part cardigan, part shawl: Endless ways to wear it. Work it with sleeves or without, with one yarn or with two. This straight-forward project is just a crocheted lace rectangle with a sumptuous edging - no shaping or seaming required. It's flattering to any body type and with just shawl pin or belt can be draped "right-way-up" or "upside-down" for countless loos. Don't be surprised if this relaxing design becomes not only a favorite project to crochet, but your favorite wearable too.

This shawl would make a wonderful Christmas present for that special someone in your life!

SPECIAL NOTE: If you are comfortable working from patterns on your own, you may not need to take this CAL to have a successful experience completing the pattern. You are welcome to purchase the pattern directly from Jennifer's website (http://www.stitchdiva.com/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=SDS-056) ($7.00) and work on your own. You are still welcome to register for the CAL, but please recognize that you will be doing so for the camaraderie of the CAL and the ability to interact with Jennifer and have direct access to her skills/knowledge/experience. Please do not be upset if the CAL ends and you find that you would have been able to complete the shawl without benefit of the CAL.

Finished Size


Sized to fit: 33 ½ (35 ½, 38, 40 ½, 44, 48, 52)” Actual Bust

Supplies Needed:

Yarn Yardage Requirements: information below reflects yarn available on the Stitch Diva website, but you may substitute ANY DK weight yarn you wish)

Sleeveless:

Featured with One Yarn: 1546(1670, 1930, 2132, 2396, 2746, 3070) Yards Studio Silk (http://www.stitchdiva.com/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=SDSYN-001), color Quiet Earth, 13(14, 17, 18, 20, 23, 26) skeins
With Two Yarns:

MC: 1354(1475, 1719, 1914, 2169, 2507, 2824) Yards
CC: 193(196, 212, 218, 228, 240, 247) Yards




Sleeved:

With One Yarn: 1790(1912, 2192, 2391, 2680, 3038, 3373) Yards
Featured with Two Yarns ():

1522(1640, 1898, 2092, 2358, 2697, 3020) Yards Plie (http://www.stitchdiva.com/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=TT-012), color Burnt Orange, 13(14, 16, 18, 20, 23, 26) skeins
269(272, 294, 300, 322, 341, 354) Yards Beaded Plie with Sequins (http://www.stitchdiva.com/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=TT-011), color Burnt Orange, 3(3, 3, 3, 3, 3, 4) skeins






Size C hook or size required to obtain gauge
Tapestry needle

Class Policies: Click here (http://www.crochetville.org/forum/showthread.php?t=61285) to read our Online Class Policies for students. Please read these policies prior to registering for a class.


Minimum Number of Students Required: 15

Maximum Number of Students Accepted: Unlimited!

Lesson Posted: September 18, 2009

Last Day Class Material Available: October 30, 2009

Student Policies (http://www.crochetville.org/forum/showthread.php?t=61285) | How to Register (http://www.crochetville.org/forum/showthread.php?t=61284) | Register Now! (http://www.crochetville.org/forum/classes.php) | Classrooms (http://www.crochetville.org/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=159)

You will only be able to see your individual classroom after registration and payment processing are complete.

[dilyca2006]

I have the pattern and would love to be part of a CAL. I have already been searching for yarn. Just a bit online. Funds will not allow me to get the yarn from their store, so, I need to find a sutible, less expensive substitute.

[AmyS]

I have the pattern and would love to be part of a CAL. I have already been searching for yarn. Just a bit online. Funds will not allow me to get the yarn from their store, so, I need to find a sutible, less expensive substitute.

I saw Jennifer's tweet about this the other day, and fell in love with the shawl. I contacted her to ask about doing a CAL for it, and was thrilled that she was very interested and will very likely have the time to do it this month.

The yarns Jennifer used are indeed very, very beautiful, but I won't be able to afford to make my shawls from them either right now. I'm planning on using this pattern to make a number of Christmas gifts this year, if I can work fast enough!

If you come across some suitable, more affordable alternatives, please feel free to post them in this thread.

[dilyca2006]

Thanks Amy.
So far I have not found anything silk that I can afford. I may choose a different fiber. I have been looking at the Debra Norville yarns and think that there may be something in the fingering weight yarn that I may try. I have never used any of them and don't know how the fabric from them will lie. We shall see though.


I saw Jennifer's tweet about this the other day, and fell in love with the shawl. I contacted her to ask about doing a CAL for it, and was thrilled that she was very interested and will very likely have the time to do it this month.

The yarns Jennifer used are indeed very, very beautiful, but I won't be able to afford to make my shawls from them either right now. I'm planning on using this pattern to make a number of Christmas gifts this year, if I can work fast enough!

If you come across some suitable, more affordable alternatives, please feel free to post them in this thread.

[KungFuGuhrl01]

I am a great admirer of Jennifer's work!!! This would be a great opportunity!

[AmyS]

I am a great admirer of Jennifer's work!!! This would be a great opportunity!

Jennifer has an excellent reputation at Chain Link for teaching absolutely fantastic classes! Even people who could work through the pattern without needing assistance would probably learn a thing or two from what she shares during the course of the class.

For those who don't know, Jennifer is the model in the shawl pictures!

[AmyS]

I think using a bamboo or bamboo-blend fiber might be a good substitute. Bamboo frequently gives the shine that silk is known for, and is a little bit easier to take care of!

[Arkie]

I've never crocheted a garment, This looks like a great way to start, but I usually can only afford the Red Heart, Would any of those hang correctly? Also i live in the boonies and don't go to the big towns shopping either. I am strictly a afghan, baby blanket crocheter so i have never had to worry about the way they hang, but I don't want to start on a cute garment I can't afford and be unhappy with totally wrong yarn. thanks, di

[AmyS]

I've never crocheted a garment, This looks like a great way to start, but I usually can only afford the Red Heart, Would any of those hang correctly? Also i live in the boonies and don't go to the big towns shopping either. I am strictly a afghan, baby blanket crocheter so i have never had to worry about the way they hang, but I don't want to start on a cute garment I can't afford and be unhappy with totally wrong yarn. thanks, di

You would need to find a DK weight yarn, not a worsted weight yarn.

I think Naturally Caron Spa yarn would work well for this.

If that's still a little bit too expensive, Caron Simply Soft might work okay. Although Simply Soft is classed as a worsted weight (size 4) yarn, I've always found it to be "squooshy" enough that it works more like a DK (size 3) yarn for me. You might have to experiment with hook size or making a different size than what you'd make with a true DK weight yarn, but you might be able to make it work.

[AmyS]

The following Red Heart (Coats and Clark) brand yarns are all classified as DK (size 3) yarns, so you might want to think about them as well:

Red Heart Soft Baby

Red Heart Designer Sport

TLC Baby

Red Heart Sport

[AmyS]

Elann.com also has a good variety of natural-fiber based yarns and blends that would work very well.

No matter what your budget for yarn for this project, you should hopefully be able to find something that you like and that will work well for this project.

[dilyca2006]

Amy. Thank you for your work on this!!!! I for one, really appreciate it. I have never used a bamboo or bamboo blend fiber. This might be a good one to use it for. I have thought about it a few times though!!
OK. Now to start the search for a yarn that I would like to use!!!!!LOL

[Hookin Catluvr]

I would love to join this CAL. Will just have to find the right yarn for it! :hook

[NameThatCandy]

This is so pretty, I am very interested in joining this CAL. When will it start to register?

[AmyS]

This is so pretty, I am very interested in joining this CAL. When will it start to register?

Registration will open for most classes tomorrow around 1:00 PM central time. Registration for this class may not open for another day or two.

No need to worry, though, as right now there is no maximum number of students to shut down the class. That might change if we ended up with a HUGE number of students, but right now, no problem is anticipated.

[khammill]

I LOVE this sweater! Thank you so much for bringing it to my attention! I would love to make it and join the CAL, but need to find a more reasonable yarn....please keep the suggestions coming!
Kris

[woolmountain]

Yes I would be interested in making the crochet version in a class...I have the same problem, can't spend to much on the yarn, still paying off CGOA Convention costs (oh boy, did I have fun spending $$$$s), but Caron's spa sounds good as well as Paton's Bamboo Silk (which I am using for making the new Cloche hats by Jennifer).

[dilyca2006]

I would love to use the Bamboo silk. I just figured up how much I would need and it would come to around $240 for me. The Caron's spa looks like it might be more affordable around $80 from what I just figured. I think that the Bamboo silk will have to wait for something smaller!!!!!LOL I so want to break out of my RH WW yarn so bad and use something fancier. RH WW is just so affordable for me!!!!!!!!!!!LOL

[ladyluck1678]

I'm definitely interested!! I just saw this pattern yesterday and it caught my eye. Now I just need to figure out what yarn to use!:)

[Krochet Mama]

I love all of Jennifers designs and would love to join this CAL. I have never done one before so I am really excited.

[vjdavis]

I love how versatile this shawl is. I would love the opportunity to work with Jennifer.

[Aure90]

I am interested in joining the CAL and bambo seems like a good option.

Aure90

[AmyS]

I've noticed several people have just joined Crochetville and posted in this thread as one of their first posts to the forum. We are so glad to have you here!

I'm curious---would anybody mind sharing how you found out about the CAL and what made you decide to register and post? You can let me know either in this thread or via PM, or you can just ignore me altogether! :lol

[khammill]

I found out about the CAL while reading New Posts. Are there any new details yet? cost?

Thanks!
Kris

[AmyS]

I found out about the CAL while reading New Posts. Are there any new details yet? cost?

Thanks!
Kris

No new details yet. Still waiting on Jennifer to get back with me on the final details: cost, start date, etc. At least it looks like we have enough interest here to make this worthwhile, as long as her schedule cooperates with us!

[NameThatCandy]

I found this when I read the posts on crochetville.

[GreenGrannie]

I haven't purchased the pattern yet, but it's on my list. It looks like an exciting project. And though I'd love to use the Studio Silk from Stitch Diva, I'll have to use a less expensive yarn. I did get two skeins of the Studio Silk for their slouchy beret pattern (for my granddaughter for Xmas), and it's very nice.

[dilyca2006]

Think I will use the Naturally Caron Spa. Joann's has it on sale right now and I think I may be able to squeeze out enough to purchase it this week.

[dilyca2006]

Just ordered 15 balls of Caron spa. This is really going to cause a problem with my stashbusting score!!!LOL But, the 15 balls will give me about 3700 yards. I think I may need that much just because I always use more yarn then what is called for!!!!!LOL

[khammill]

What does everyone think about Bernat Satin? It is soft, has a sheen, while it is listed as a WW, I find it to be a thinner WW.

Would it be an acceptable yarn for this pattern?
Kris

[IrisCiolino]

Yes!! I would be interested in taking this class.
Thanks, Iris

[AmyS]

I found quite a few different natural fiber yarns at WEBS that I'm considering. I'm going to make the sleeveless version in size small (not XS), so I'll need 1670 yards. Here are the yarns I'm considering:


Reynolds Soft Sea Wool (http://www.yarn.com/webs-knitting-crochet-yarns-weight-dk/webs-knitting-yarns-reynolds-soft-sea-wool/): 100% wool, $49.09: Got a recommendation against this yarn

Berroco Ultra Alpaca Light (http://www.yarn.com/webs-knitting-crochet-yarns-weight-dk/webs-knitting-yarns-berroco-ultra-alpaca-light/): 50% super fine alpaca/50% Peruvian wool, $49.50

Valley Yarns Northfield (http://www.yarn.com/webs-knitting-crochet-yarns-weight-dk/webs-knitting-yarns-valley-yarns-northfield/): 70% merino/20% baby alpaca/10% silk, $52.40

Frog Tree Pima Silk (http://www.yarn.com/webs-knitting-crochet-yarns-weight-dk/webs-knitting-yarns-frog-tree-pima-silk/): 85% pima cotton/15% silk, $52.80

Dale of Norway Svale (http://www.yarn.com/webs-knitting-crochet-yarns-weight-dk/webs-knitting-yarns-dale-of-norway-svale/): 50% cotton/40% viscose/10% silk, $65.81

Classic Elite Cotton Bam Boo (http://www.yarn.com/webs-knitting-crochet-yarns-weight-dk/webs-knitting-yarns-classic-elite-cotton-bam-boo/): 52% cotton/48% bamboo, $77.51

[vjdavis]

I am a fan of Stitch Diva on Facebook. Got the information for this class from a posting there. I was excited to learn about this forum.

[stitchaywoman]

I'm definitely interested in registering for a CAL for this project, if one is scheduled.

[dilyca2006]

Thanks Amy.
I am going to do the version with sleeves and I am not a size small!!!:lol More an XL for most things:( Some day though I might be able to do the smaller sizes for myself

I found quite a few different natural fiber yarns at WEBS that I'm considering. I'm going to make the sleeveless version in size small (not XS), so I'll need 1670 yards. Here are the yarns I'm considering:


Reynolds Soft Sea Wool (http://www.yarn.com/webs-knitting-crochet-yarns-weight-dk/webs-knitting-yarns-reynolds-soft-sea-wool/): 100% wool, $49.09: Got a recommendation against this yarn

Berroco Ultra Alpaca Light (http://www.yarn.com/webs-knitting-crochet-yarns-weight-dk/webs-knitting-yarns-berroco-ultra-alpaca-light/): 50% super fine alpaca/50% Peruvian wool, $49.50

Valley Yarns Northfield (http://www.yarn.com/webs-knitting-crochet-yarns-weight-dk/webs-knitting-yarns-valley-yarns-northfield/): 70% merino/20% baby alpaca/10% silk, $52.40

Frog Tree Pima Silk (http://www.yarn.com/webs-knitting-crochet-yarns-weight-dk/webs-knitting-yarns-frog-tree-pima-silk/): 85% pima cotton/15% silk, $52.80

Dale of Norway Svale (http://www.yarn.com/webs-knitting-crochet-yarns-weight-dk/webs-knitting-yarns-dale-of-norway-svale/): 50% cotton/40% viscose/10% silk, $65.81

Classic Elite Cotton Bam Boo (http://www.yarn.com/webs-knitting-crochet-yarns-weight-dk/webs-knitting-yarns-classic-elite-cotton-bam-boo/): 52% cotton/48% bamboo, $77.51

[AmyS]

Okay, everybody, I'm happy to announce this CAL is a go! I'm just waiting to hear back from Jennifer with the official start date. As soon as I have that info, I'll open up registration!

Start planning your yarn purchases now! We'll be sure to leave adequate time before the first day of class for people to register, have some time to plan what yarn they want to use, and have time for their yarn orders to arrive if they have to order online. :)

[dilyca2006]

cool. I have my pattern and I have ordered yarn!!!!! Looking forward to working with Jennifer on this cal!!!

[AmyS]

Registration for this class is now open!!!!

Start date: September 18

Cost: $30.00

[NameThatCandy]

does the price include the pattern? Or I need to purchase the pattern on her website?

And I am not sure how does the class work? Does everybody go online the same time??

[AmyS]

does the price include the pattern? Or I need to purchase the pattern on her website?

And I am not sure how does the class work? Does everybody go online the same time??

When I opened the class for registration last night, I updated the first post in this thread to show that you have to purchase the pattern (http://www.stitchdiva.com/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=SDS-056) separately on the Stitch Diva website. This is to make things easier for everyone who already owns a copy of the pattern.

The beauty of online classes is that each person can go to the classroom at any time. There is no need for everyone to be there all at once. Here are some threads (from our General Online Class Information folder) that you might want to read:

Online Class FAQ (http://www.crochetville.org/forum/showthread.php?t=79547)

Online Class Policies and Information (http://www.crochetville.org/forum/showthread.php?t=61285)

How to Register for Classes (http://www.crochetville.org/forum/showthread.php?t=61284)

[NameThatCandy]

So it will be $30 for the class plus $7 for the pattern, right?

[AmyS]

So it will be $30 for the class plus $7 for the pattern, right?

Yes, plus shipping/tax charges for the pattern if you select to have the pattern mailed to you instead of downloading a document.

[dilyca2006]

cool beans.

[AmyS]

Now if I could just figure out what yarn I want to use! I want something very nice, very sumptuous, hopefully 100% natural, that won't cost me a fortune. Yeah, I just want the whole world, don't I?? :lol

Everyone, as you decide what yarn you're going to be using, please feel free to tell us about it here. Links to where we can go be copy-cats, too, please!

[dilyca2006]

I really want the yarn that comes with the kit that you can get with this pattern!!!LOL That's a Yea right!!!! if I ever had one!!LOL
I am going to use the Naturally Caron Spa. It was on sale at Joanns.com this week. I need about twice the yarn you need Amy!!LOL With the yarn and a new hook. Got to have a new hook with a really cool pattern like this one. And with shipping I only spent $67. Did I just say that "I only spent"????????// LOL

[EMedley]

I've noticed several people have just joined Crochetville and posted in this thread as one of their first posts to the forum. We are so glad to have you here!

I'm curious---would anybody mind sharing how you found out about the CAL and what made you decide to register and post? You can let me know either in this thread or via PM, or you can just ignore me altogether! :lol

I saw this post but also when I purchased the pattern from her site it sent me an email that mentioned the class.

[delilahdaff]

I am hoping to use Sirdar Just Bamboo for the cardi.
Can anyone advise if this will be ok, i would love to use a silk yarn but the ££'s add up when so much is needed!
I'm in the UK so my selection to most of you will be different I expect.

On Jennifer's site I have looked at the 'what others have done with this pattern' on a couple of her other designs and it looks as if people have used it successfully, so as I say.....fingers crossed.

I'm not very good when it comes to working out the gauge for different yarns but I'm hoping this cardi is quite forgiving and as I'm between sizes on the pattern I was planning on following the smaller size !

Any advice is very welcome :P

Karen

[dilyca2006]

I have ment to say something about the number of Christmas gifts you plan on using this pattern for!!! How many are you going to try to get done?? I am going to be lucky to get the one for myself done with everything else I have going and I don't work full time or run a web site!!!!!!LOL


I saw Jennifer's tweet about this the other day, and fell in love with the shawl. I contacted her to ask about doing a CAL for it, and was thrilled that she was very interested and will very likely have the time to do it this month.

The yarns Jennifer used are indeed very, very beautiful, but I won't be able to afford to make my shawls from them either right now. I'm planning on using this pattern to make a number of Christmas gifts this year, if I can work fast enough!

If you come across some suitable, more affordable alternatives, please feel free to post them in this thread.

[AmyS]

The one I make during the CAL is going to be for me. Then I'll need to make at least 4 more, then possibly another 3, depending on how long it takes me to make this one. Half of them will be smalls, one a medium, one a large, and one an XXL.

I crochet very fast, so hopefully I'll at least be able to get the ones for my family done. Friends may have to wait for their birthdays!

[dilyca2006]

You will have to update us from time to time to let us know how you are doing.
My mom is always telling me to slow down so that she can see what I am doing!LOL I am sure that after the first couple that you make it will come second nature!!!

The one I make during the CAL is going to be for me. Then I'll need to make at least 4 more, then possibly another 3, depending on how long it takes me to make this one. Half of them will be smalls, one a medium, one a large, and one an XXL.

I crochet very fast, so hopefully I'll at least be able to get the ones for my family done. Friends may have to wait for their birthdays!

[ctawq]

The one I make during the CAL is going to be for me. Then I'll need to make at least 4 more, then possibly another 3, depending on how long it takes me to make this one. Half of them will be smalls, one a medium, one a large, and one an XXL.

I crochet very fast, so hopefully I'll at least be able to get the ones for my family done. Friends may have to wait for their birthdays!


Dang!!! Your hook must be smoking :rofl When do you find the time?

One question though... if we don't join in on this cal can we still lurk around the edges? I have been thinking of making this wrap but can't spend the extra money right now. I would enjoy vicariously listening to you all make yours.


:mug:cat:yarn

[ctawq]

Woops!! my bad I have been reading this thread so long I forgot it was a class. No lurking allowed! :blush Have fun and post pictures at the end.

[dilyca2006]

I don't think it is a class yet. That does not start for a while.

Woops!! my bad I have been reading this thread so long I forgot it was a class. No lurking allowed! :blush Have fun and post pictures at the end.

[stitchaywoman]

I am hoping to use Sirdar Just Bamboo for the cardi.
Can anyone advise if this will be ok, i would love to use a silk yarn but the ££'s add up when so much is needed!
I'm in the UK so my selection to most of you will be different I expect.

On Jennifer's site I have looked at the 'what others have done with this pattern' on a couple of her other designs and it looks as if people have used it successfully, so as I say.....fingers crossed.

I'm not very good when it comes to working out the gauge for different yarns but I'm hoping this cardi is quite forgiving and as I'm between sizes on the pattern I was planning on following the smaller size !

Any advice is very welcome :P

Karen

I was also thinking bamboo as a good substitute fiber -- I can't afford to get this much silk either. My specific selection, however, may be different since I'm in the states (although I know I've seen a really similar yarn here to the Sirdar line and I'll be checking it out in my LYS before I buy.)

[AmyS]

Woops!! my bad I have been reading this thread so long I forgot it was a class. No lurking allowed! :blush Have fun and post pictures at the end.

Sorry, but yes, since it's a class, only students will be able to access it.

However, we'll create a "showcase" thread for the class where students can post pictures of their completed garments for all to see. The showcase thread won't be created until students start getting garments completed.

[Krakovianka]

I like the looks of this one--I wish the pictures for the crocheted version were clearer/larger. I'm hoping to see some finished objects, and then I may get the pattern later. I'm thinking of working it up with two strands of thread, or possibly some thin cotton yarn...I'm thinking of something that would dress up an outfit without adding a lot of heat/bulk. Can't join your class--I don't have time for this project right now--but the pattern is definitely a WIM for me!

[Krakovianka]

Okay, I just found better pics!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/stitchdiva/3841392638/in/set-72157622097477434/

You can scroll through the pictures and see each one in a larger format.

Now it's a DEFINITE WIM. I want one! I'll have to get the pattern soon and start thinking about colors....(Olive green or black, I think...)

[AmyS]

Okay, I just found better pics!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/stitchdiva/3841392638/in/set-72157622097477434/

You can scroll through the pictures and see each one in a larger format.

Now it's a DEFINITE WIM. I want one! I'll have to get the pattern soon and start thinking about colors....(Olive green or black, I think...)

Glad you found that! I was just about to come over and post that link for you. :)

[dilyca2006]

I need to go sign up for the class.

[AmyS]

Donna and I have both been doing some swatching today with various yarns we each had around the house. We came up with some interesting results.

If you haven't purchased or ordered your yarn yet, I would highly recommend you spend some time swatching with yarns you have around the house prior to placing an order.

Donna will have to post her results, because I'm not sure what yarn she started with. She found that she couldn't get gauge with the DK weight yarn she had on hand. So she switched to fingering weight (sock weight) and achieved gauge. She then called me to ask me to swatch.

I tried swatches with the following yarns, all with a Boye C hook:

ALL SWATCHES TOGETHER:
7787

Fleece Artist Sea Wool (http://www.theloopyewe.com/browse/yarns/fleece-artist/sea-wool-bordello-sock/moss/) fingering weight (70% merino wool, 30% seacell): swatch was larger than gauge
7788

Araucania Ranco (http://www.theloopyewe.com/browse/yarns/araucania/ranco-multi/) fingering weight (75% wool; 25% polyamide): achieved gauge, but swatch was stiffest of them all
7790

Bristol Yarn Lyndon Hill (http://www.yarn.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/product.detail/categoryID/08FFFF94-4306-4408-BC6A-FF65A1BE7976/productID/7023C31D-77A8-4DE8-B69E-82F5B6FD45E9/) fingering weight (85% pima cotton; 15% silk): achieved gauge, swatch had the most drape
7789

Naturally Caron Spa (http://naturallycaron.com/shade_cards/spa_sh.html) DK weight (25% bamboo; 75% microdenier acrylic): achieved gauge, drape in between the Ranco and Lyndon Hill
7792

Malabrigo Silky Merino (http://www.yarn.com/webs-knitting-crochet-yarns-malabrigo/webs-knitting-crochet-yarn-malabrigo-silky-merino/) DK weight (51% silk; 49% merino wool): larger than gauge; slightly drapier than Araucania
7791

Caron Simply Soft (http://caron.com/color_cards/cc_simplysoft.html) worsted weight (100% acrylic): larger than gauge; stiffer than Araucania
7793

Lyndon Hill next to Araucania:
7794 7795

Lyndon Hill next to Spa:
7796


The Spa yarn is very soft and "squooshy," which is why I was able to get gauge with it. The Lyndon Hill is very soft, but doesn't have much "squoosh" factor. The Ranco is very firm and not quite as soft.

You may want to experiment with some DK and fingering weights to see how close you are able to come to gauge before investing in any expensive yarn (whatever expensive means to you).

I think if you use a DK weight yarn, most people will probably need a soft yarn that has a great deal of "squoosh" to it. If you go down to fingering weight, you can go with a firmer yarn that doesn't squish as much.

Tomorrow, I'm going to experiment with some Malabrigo Silky Merino (50% merino wool, 50% silk) that I have on hand plus some Caron Simply Soft. Spa looks very similar to Tahki Stacy Charles Classic Cotton. I'm not sure if I still have any leftovers of the Tahki yarn around, but if I can find it I'll do a swatch with it, too.

I'll also try to take pictures tomorrow of all these swatches and somehow get them to show you how it's all draping.

[dilyca2006]

Thanks Amy. You know what. I am going to have to find a C hook. Don't think I own one and the one that I ordered with my yarn is a G.

[stitchaywoman]

I think if you use a DK weight yarn, most people will probably need a soft yarn that has a great deal of "squoosh" to it. If you go down to fingering weight, you can go with a firmer yarn that doesn't squish as much.


I'm glad you posted this because when I was looking at the Flickr photos and thinking that it was calling for a C hook, I was very surprised that the yarn weight was listed as DK. Frankly, I was already thinking that I was going to need to look at more sport-to-fingering weight yarns, so I'm glad I wasn't too far wrong. Obviously swatching beforehand is going to be key before I decide on buying this much of any yarn. :crocheting

Still leaning toward bamboo but we'll see. Another consideration is that, since I'm making the biggest size, I don't want this thing to weigh a ton -- otherwise I was thinking that a mercerized cotton might make sense, but the garment would just be way too heavy in the biggest size.

[Krakovianka]

I think with a C hook, you could almost get away with thread--maybe that new bamboo thread I've heard about? It would be light and drapy, and that might be a consideration for a larger garment. My Boye C hook is 2.75cm. And I think some sock/fingering weight yarn isn't much thicker than thread! I'm tempted to go buy the pattern now and swatch...sheesh!

[dilyca2006]

I sure hope the Bamboo yarn that I have coming will work. Thinking now that I should have taken the time to drive the half hour drive to Joann's and bought the yarn, if they had it, and done a swatch before I bought so much online.

[NameThatCandy]

I think I will skip the class, but I will buy the pattern to do it by myself! Right now I just can't afford the yarns, pattern and class.

BTW, I bought Patons Silk Bamboo Yarns, it is DK, 70% Bamboo and 30% silk. Very soft, it is $5.99 per skeins. It is much softer than Caron Spa Yarn. I will try to do a swatch soon.

[AmyS]

Post 60 (http://www.crochetville.org/forum/showpost.php?p=1838667&postcount=60) in this thread has been updated with pics of my swatches done with 6 different yarns: worsted, DK, and fingering weights.

[dilyca2006]

Thanks Amy for your work on this. I think I should be fine with my spa that I bought.

[khammill]

I 2nd that - Amy, Thank you for the pictures of the swatches. I'm going to buy the pattern and look it over before I commit to the class. I picked up a bunch of Caron Spa based on your recommendation.

What color is everyone going to do? 1 color or 2? sleeveless or long sleeves??

Kris

[dilyca2006]

I got the Misty Taupe (I think that is what they call it) of Caron Spa. I am going to make the sleeved version

[kel]

I have fallen madly, deeply, in love with this cardi....hoping that with all my back to school shopping I can squirrel enough away to take this class!
Just wondering if anyone has thought of using Microspun (Lionbrand) and if so, how well did it guage out?

[melkrose]

Does anyone already have the pattern? Do you think it will be hard for an intermediate crocheter? I' afraid to invest in the yarn if the pattern is to difficult to attempt. Joining the CAL will be a help.

[AmyS]

Does anyone already have the pattern? Do you think it will be hard for an intermediate crocheter? I' afraid to invest in the yarn if the pattern is to difficult to attempt. Joining the CAL will be a help.

I have the pattern. Jennifer has rated it as being an intermediate level pattern. The pattern can be a little tricky, but it's not really difficult.

I think by doing this as a CAL, and having Jennifer right there to answer any questions about parts of the pattern that don't seem clear, you should be able to handle it just fine.

[AmyS]

Another swatch sample: I bought a ball of Patons Silk Bamboo yesterday to work up a swatch. Mine came out slightly larger than the swatches I did with Spa and Lyndon Hill. The swatch was not as drapey as the Lyndon Hill, but it would probably be acceptable for most people.

I'll try to take some pics later and get them posted.

I also found a place in the UK with silk yarn on cones. I've ordered a sample card from them, and hopefully it will arrive within the next week or so. If the yarn I'm considering works okay, you could get enough silk for a size small for only $60. That's unwashed, oiled silk (for using with knitting machines), but they'll wash and skein it for you for another $15. I'm debating whether it's worth that $15 so I don't have to spend all my time skeining and washing. I think it probably is.

[AmyS]

I have fallen madly, deeply, in love with this cardi....hoping that with all my back to school shopping I can squirrel enough away to take this class!
Just wondering if anyone has thought of using Microspun (Lionbrand) and if so, how well did it guage out?

I've got some Microspun around here somewhere. Let me find it, and I'll let you know.

[AmyS]

Okay, here are my newest swatches. I've steam ironed some of them, which is known as "killing" when you do it to acrylic. It greatly changes the appearance and drape of the piece.

First: Lion Brand Microspun
7842
Originally about 1/4" larger than gauge in both height and width. I killed the right half of the swatch. You can see it is flatter, shinier, and larger than the left side. It's also drapier.

Next: Naturally Caron Spa after being killed
7843
Again, flatter, shinier, larger, and drapier.

Next: Killed Spa compared to Lyndon Hill
7844
Both were originally the same size

Next: Patons Bamboo Silk
7845
This swatch was also about 1/4" larger than gauge in both dimensions. Right side has been steamed. Since this yarn is bamboo/silk, it doesn't change as much with steaming.

Last: Patons Bamboo Silk and Lyndon Hill
7846
Bamboo Silk about 1/4" larger than Lyndon Hill, even though it's not as apparent from this picture.


Hope these pictures help. I would definitely kill the Microspun and Spa if I were going to use them. Since this will make the swatch grow, I'd end up making a smaller size than required. I'd have to do the math to know whether I wanted to go down one or two sizes.

[khammill]

Ohhhhh "killing" that sounds so violent :D I've never done that before - do you just steam iron the garment after you wash it? I assume that you would need to kill it after each washing? I like the idea of doing a smaller size, less yarn - but would be worried that I would be unhappy with the fit. If I am investing the time and $$ to make this wrap, I want to make sure that I will be happy with it (as sure as I can be). Do you think it would uniformly add to the drape / size including at the joins & sleeves?

Has anyone downsized a garment before to correct for the kill effect (is that the correct term? if not, it should be, it sounds cool :hook).

Kris

[NameThatCandy]

Hi Amy,

Patons Silk Bamboo is the yarn I bought, u still used Boye C Hook, right?

So far, what is your favorite yarns?

[NameThatCandy]

I also found Vanna's Glamour in AC Moore, it is sport weight, it looks very nice, just curious anyone think about using It???

[kel]

AMY - thank you for all the work you are putting into this for us! :cheer

I agree w/ khammill in that I would want to buy something that will do justice to the pattern & all the effort of the piece, so I really appreciate your swatching & pics.

[AmyS]

Do you all feel like you're getting a good enough look at the differences in the swatches?

Let me know if you want me to try doing anything else with the photos.

[EMedley]

Did I see someone mention that Caron SS may be a good yarn to use for this? I hope so... :)

[AmyS]

As far as which samples I like best? Hmmm, let me think.

I think my favorite is the Lyndon Hill. When I iron it to flatten out the lace, it gets nice and flat and really maintains the stitch definition. But it doesn't get the shine like the acrylic swatches. Oh, and it maintains swatch measurements.

My next favorite would be the Spa, I think. It gets flatter than the other swatches did. It seems more lustrous instead of shiny.

Next I think I like the Patons Silk Bamboo, followed by the Lion Brand Microspun.

I could be happy with any of them, at least based on the look and feel of the small swatches.

I'm working on making a full-size piece of the pattern with the Microspun. I'll get as big a piece as I can from what's left of this skein. Then I'll take a picture of it as stitched, then a picture after killing.

My sister saw the swatches this afternoon. She preferred the Spa over everything else, including the Lyndon Hill. I may take the swatches over to my mom tomorrow to see what she thinks about them.

The problem with the Spa, Microspun, and Silk Bamboo is that they all grew with heavy steaming.

I'm making the size XS with the Microspun. I'll be sure to measure it prior to steaming and after, so we can see how much it grows.

[AmyS]

Did I see someone mention that Caron SS may be a good yarn to use for this? I hope so... :)

Simply Soft worked up at a much larger gauge for me. I also didn't like the way it draped. I didn't kill that swatch yet by steam ironing it. If I did that, I'm sure it would become drapy enough, but it would probably grow even larger.

To make Simply Soft work, I think you'd have to make a smaller size than what you'd need with the correct gauge yarn. I'm not sure how much smaller you'd need to go, though.

[stitchaywoman]

BTW, I bought Patons Silk Bamboo Yarns, it is DK, 70% Bamboo and 30% silk. Very soft, it is $5.99 per skeins. It is much softer than Caron Spa Yarn. I will try to do a swatch soon.

Please do! I would love to see if this yarn works - I would definitely get this one if I could get gauge. although now that I've read Amy's post I'm concerned about the "growing after steaming" problem.

Amy -- what was the drape like with the silk bamboo?

[dilyca2006]

Amy. Bless you for taking the time to do all of these swatches. I never knew about the "killing" thing. Learned something new here. Also, the great majority of these yarns you are swatching are yarns I have never had my hands on. You know. I am a Red Heart SS cause of the price!!!!!!!!!LOL

[NameThatCandy]

Amy, thanks for all your hard work!

One more question for Spa Yarns, I heard ppl keep complaining about splitting problem, did u have any problem when u crocheted it??

Now I am not sure that do I want to use Patons Silk Bamboo, because you like the Spa more. For the price, Spa is half price of Patons. If they are really similar, I rather use Spa. The reason I choose Patons, I thought it will be much nicer than Spa.

[Krakovianka]

I knew that steam ironing "killed" acrylic yarn, and I have done it (can't remember when or why--it was unintentional), but I never thought of it as having a positive side. I know it can't be undone, and I thought it was undesirable because it ruined the yarn.

Now I see that it might actually have a useful purpose (increasing the drape of a wearable). Revelational. I think it needs a different name so that it doesn't sound so negative. :lol

[AmyS]

Amy, thanks for all your hard work!

One more question for Spa Yarns, I heard ppl keep complaining about splitting problem, did u have any problem when u crocheted it??

Now I am not sure that do I want to use Patons Silk Bamboo, because you like the Spa more. For the price, Spa is half price of Patons. If they are really similar, I rather use Spa. The reason I choose Patons, I thought it will be much nicer than Spa.

Don't go just by what I like. It's all a matter of personal preference. You might find you like the Patons better.

[AmyS]

I knew that steam ironing "killed" acrylic yarn, and I have done it (can't remember when or why--it was unintentional), but I never thought of it as having a positive side. I know it can't be undone, and I thought it was undesirable because it ruined the yarn.

Now I see that it might actually have a useful purpose (increasing the drape of a wearable). Revelational. I think it needs a different name so that it doesn't sound so negative. :lol

I learned about this technique in Lily Chin's book Couture Crochet Workshop. She mentioned that sometimes when you think a garment is already ruined anyway, you can try "killing" to see if it will help.

In most cases, you really don't want to kill the fabric. But in special circumstances, it can actually be helpful!

Karen is definitely right: killing is a process that cannot be undone. So it's always a good idea to try this on a swatch before ever attempting it on a completed item.

[kel]

I made a pit-stop at Joanns at lunch time and found that my store now carries Caron Spa & think that will be my choice. Only problem is they only had about 3 colors - and on top of that, only 3 skeins of each of those colors.
Updated::::Bought pattern! Now hoping to scrounge up the extra for the class. :)

[EMedley]

Has anyone worked with Patons Grace? I have Caron SS but it sounds like it might be a hassle for this project. May just have to save my coupons each week and get some pricey stuff.

[NameThatCandy]

I also bought the pattern tonight.

Anyone read the pattern?? I have a question.

I am going to make XS, after Row 6, it said “Rep 3-6 an additional 22 (23, 25, 27, 28, 29) times. Size XS, 2X, 3X Only: Work rows 3 and 4.

Is that mean I rep Row 3 and 4 additional 44 times???

I am kind of confused about this part.

Thanks

[AmyS]

NameThatCandy, I think it just means that those sizes will need to ALSO work rows 3 and 4 after repeating the whole section of rows 3-6 multiple times.

It wouldn't work to just repeat rows 3 and 4 over and over again, as the shells wouldn't alternate position from row to row.

[stitchaywoman]

I am doing some swatches and will post pics of each -- the yarns I am swatching with (if anyone is curious to see them) are:
RYC Cashcotton 4-ply (I am SO MAD this is discontinued, I don't even wanna talk about it...)
RYC Cashsoft 4-ply
Colinette Jitterbug
Crystal Palace Panda Cotton
Blue Sky Alpaca & Silk
Berroco Comfort DK
Berroco Seduce (I really don't think this'll work, but I've been wanting to check it out)
Louisa Harding Jasmine
Bristol Yarn Gallery Buckingham (after it arrives -- I have some coming).

I may be adding CY Panda Silk if I get gauge with the Panda Cotton.

[AmyS]

I am doing some swatches and will post pics of each -

I can't wait to see your swatches!

[AmyS]

We have 4 registrations so far of the 15 we need to hold this class. :) We still have 2.5 weeks until the first day of class, so we have plenty of time to get the remaining registrations.

Feel free to go ahead and register. If for some reason we don't get 15 students and we can't hold the class, we'll issue everyone a prompt refund of the full class price.

[kel]

I am doing some swatches...

Looking forward to it!
:hook

[dilyca2006]

I just registered. I hope that we do get enough to have the class!!!

[AmyS]

I'm pretty sure we'll get enough registrations by the day of class. Some people are probably just waiting until closer to the class date to register.

Since the number of students is unlimited, there's no need to register early to make sure you get a spot. :)

The only benefit of early registration is that it helps Jennifer and me (and Donna) relax about knowing we'll have enough students to hold the class! :hook

[dilyca2006]

LOL!!!
I thought I had better go ahead before I forgot!!!!

I'm pretty sure we'll get enough registrations by the day of class. Some people are probably just waiting until closer to the class date to register.

Since the number of students is unlimited, there's no need to register early to make sure you get a spot. :)

The only benefit of early registration is that it helps Jennifer and me (and Donna) relax about knowing we'll have enough students to hold the class! :hook

[Hookin Catluvr]

Looking forwrd to the new swatches, especially the berrocco comfort dk. I love berrocco yarns, with my allergies it's one of the few I can use.

[NameThatCandy]

Hi Amy,

That is what I thought too, repeat the whole pattern R2 to R6, but just don't figure out why she said for XS, only work R3 and R4.

Thanks

[dilyca2006]

I really need to sit down and read through the pattern. Should get my yarn today and be able to do my swatches tomorrow!!!

[stephaniesews]

Can't wait to see your swatches, These are some of my favorite yarns. I have some of these yarns in my stash but not enough to make this cardi?shawl. I'm going on a yarn hunt today. I'll hit the not so local yarn shop and michaels.

[dilyca2006]

my yarn came today. Will not have time to swatch this afternoon though.

[dilyca2006]

going to go take a walk and then I am going to get into the yarn that came yesterday and actually swatch!!!LOL I am not a swatcher as I mostlly make afghans. Don't usually see the point. I guess it is time to learn to take some time to do this for some things now though!!!!LOL

[dilyca2006]

am thinking that working with the Caron Spa and a size C hook is going to drive me nuts!!!!!!!!LOL

[dilyca2006]

size c hook. 2 3/8 inches high as called for, but, I got almost 5 inches wide instead of the 4. Not going to go down in hook and will not kill the fiber. Going to go with what I got!!!LOL

[stitchaywoman]

Swatches are coming; I'm just figuring out what I should do to block them. I have five swatches completed so far; will post some pics tonight.

[NameThatCandy]

Just start today, I decide to use Caron Spa and using Clover C hook (2.5mm).

I was a little bit confused in the first row (About the Crossed DC, because instead of ch 5, it said 5 ch. I wasn't sure what that mean first, but I figured out that mean ch 5).

[AmyS]

Swatches are coming; I'm just figuring out what I should do to block them. I have five swatches completed so far; will post some pics tonight.

Are you done yet? Huh? We want to see your swatches! Hurry up! :lol

Just having some fun with you. :D We do want to see and hear about your swatches, but feel free to take your time.

We can be patient, I promise! Well, I'll try my best anyway. Even if I have to sit on my hands to keep from pestering you. Because I'm sure everyone is anxious to see swatches from somebody other than me!

[dilyca2006]

Glad to know that I was not the only one hung up on that for a bit!!! The only C hook I could find in my "collection" was a boye and it just says size C USA


Just start today, I decide to use Caron Spa and using Clover C hook (2.5mm).

I was a little bit confused in the first row (About the Crossed DC, because instead of ch 5, it said 5 ch. I wasn't sure what that mean first, but I figured out that mean ch 5).

[stitchaywoman]

Are you done yet? Huh? We want to see your swatches! Hurry up! :lol

Just having some fun with you. :D We do want to see and hear about your swatches, but feel free to take your time.

My bad -- it'll be tonight though, I promise. I have another swatch completed, too, so I'm down to two more to crochet and then I need to block all of them.
Any tips on blocking swatches? Usually I want my blocking method to follow the method I'll use to wash the garment, and since I might be machine-washing (in a mesh bag, of course) a couple of these yarns, I would generally machine-wash the swatch too. But if this garment is going to take a lot of blocking, I don't know about machine-washing even the yarn that can be machine washed if that will ruin the shape of the garment.
Sigh -- unlike most knitters/crocheters, I actually dislike the "picking the yarn" part of a project the most.

[dilyca2006]

I have never sat and tried different yarns for anything before. I am usually the "what color does Red Heart have that I can use for this project" person. I am learning that there are many different yarns out there and that different projects need different yarns. Every wearable that I have ever made (3 to be exact) have either called for WW yarn or Homespun. This is a realy "get out of my box" type of item for me.
OH. Is it going to be a big deal of I don't block this item. I have never done that with anything but doilies a very, very long time ago and have no idea how to block an item like this?


My bad -- it'll be tonight though, I promise. I have another swatch completed, too, so I'm down to two more to crochet and then I need to block all of them.
Any tips on blocking swatches? Usually I want my blocking method to follow the method I'll use to wash the garment, and since I might be machine-washing (in a mesh bag, of course) a couple of these yarns, I would generally machine-wash the swatch too. But if this garment is going to take a lot of blocking, I don't know about machine-washing even the yarn that can be machine washed if that will ruin the shape of the garment.
Sigh -- unlike most knitters/crocheters, I actually dislike the "picking the yarn" part of a project the most.

[khammill]

Amy,
I am curious :think how many people have signed up for the class so far?

Thanks!
Kris

[faedragon]

...But if this garment is going to take a lot of blocking, I don't know about machine-washing even the yarn that can be machine washed if that will ruin the shape of the garment..

An item that is blocked does not retain the blocked shape when laundered. It must be blocked after each laundering whether it is done in a machine or by hand.

[AmyS]

But if this garment is going to take a lot of blocking, I don't know about machine-washing even the yarn that can be machine washed if that will ruin the shape of the garment.
Sigh -- unlike most knitters/crocheters, I actually dislike the "picking the yarn" part of a project the most.

It depends. If you've used natural fibers, you'll need to reblock after each washing.

If you've used acrylic and you've "killed" the garment, that is permanent and there shouldn't be any reblocking required.

[EMedley]

I haven't swatched just yet, but I think Im going to us Spa for this. I picked up one ball so far, didn't want to go over board on $5 yarn and not like it ;)

[melkrose]

Has anyone tried Red Heart LusterSheen? I was wondering if this was a good yarn for this project. They have a nice chocolate color I like. I found it today in the Herrschners catalog.

[AmyS]

Has anyone tried Red Heart LusterSheen? I was wondering if this was a good yarn for this project. They have a nice chocolate color I like. I found it today in the Herrschners catalog.

Donna worked up a swatch with Luster Sheen. She didn't particularly care for it, but that doesn't mean you'd think the same thing. Edited/Correction: It looks like the Luster Sheen could work well. See Donna's post here: http://www.crochetville.org/forum/showthread.php?t=103943&p=1851829

Amy

[AmyS]

We currently have 7 of the 15 registrations needed to hold this class. We still have 12 days (including today) to get the remaining 8 registrations we need. :)

[Hookin Catluvr]

I registered for the class. Come on guys, lets get those registrations in!

:cheer:cheer:cheer:cheer

[melkrose]

Im still deciding about the class. I have the pattern but I am still unsure if I will be able to tackle it.

[stitchaywoman]

I wanted to post the pictures in here, but I couldn't figure out how to do it. When I checked the FAQ and clicked on the links about resizing pics and posting clickable thumbnails, it said I didn't have permission to access the pages. Hopefully the links work for you. I apologize in advance for the picture quality.
Anyway, here are most of the promised swatches (I still have a few to block).
I used a C hook (2.75 mm) for all of these. As usual, I never got the width-to-height ratio listed in the pattern gauge. I will note for each if I think the yarn could bear bring crocheted with a smaller hook.
Since I generally like to machine wash on delicate if possible, that is what I did to the swatches. Then I blocked to open up the lace while damp, and when dry, pressed for a few seconds with a steam iron under a press cloth.
Actually, there is one exception, which I will post first: Araucania Ruca. This is 100% sugarcane fiber, and it is dry clean only. I didn't even wet this one; I hand-blocked to open up the lace and then pressed for a few seconds under a steam iron, using a press cloth, as described above.
Each square on this mat = 1".
1. Araucania Ruca
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y39/NattyBee77/SwatchesCrochetCardi090709ruca.jpg
I think this might be the prettiest of all the swatches, although I don't really like the multicolor effect. I picked the least multicolor one I could find, but you know how much the LYSes LOOOOOOVE the multicolor yarns that obliterate the stitchwork. (Can you tell I don't like this?)
This could go a little tighter, but not a lot. It's fairly drapey but still has body -- just about the right amount. It's splitty, though, so those puff stitches are tricky.
2. Southwest Trading Company Bamboo
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y39/NattyBee77/SwatchesCrochetCardi090709bamboo.jpg
I used a multicolor for the swatch, but I wouldn't for the garment. Only multis were available in my LYC. This could definitely stand being crocheted tighter.
I wouldn't run this through the washer again, though - this should be hand washed. Very drapey; you wouldn't be able to get this to stand up if you wanted to wear your collar that way.
3. Berroco Seduce
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y39/NattyBee77/SwatchesCrochetCardi090709seduce.jpg
Absolutely awful, as I had predicted! :devil Stiff as a board. Definitely does NOT like the washing machine at all. It wasn't good before the machine, either, though.
4. RYC Cashcotton 4-ply
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y39/NattyBee77/SwatchesCrochetCardi090709cashcotto.jpg
Did I mention how mad I am that this yarn is being discontinued?
My only solace is that I don't like most of the colors this yarn came in. Still, it would have been almost perfect for this project. Could be crocheted a little tighter, good drape, a little body.
5. RYC Cashsoft 4-ply
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y39/NattyBee77/SwatchesCrochetCardi090709cashsoft.jpg
OK, but not quite as nice as the Cashcotton. I wouldn't pick it myself although it is about the right size; I wouldn't go too much tighter on this. Drape is so-so.
6. Berroco Comfort DK
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y39/NattyBee77/SwatchesCrochetCardi090709comfortdk.jpg
This one is surprisingly good. I would consider making this project with this yarn. I didn't have much luck blocking it out far from where it was when unblocked, but it could stand going down a hook size. Just don't expect to get this one to change much in finishing. Fairly good drape.
7. Colinette Jitterbug
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y39/NattyBee77/SwatchesCrochetCardi090709jitterbug.jpg
I wouldn't choose this yarn for this project. Not very much drape, and it just doesn't look good in this crochet pattern. This yarn would have to be crocheted a lot less densely to look OK.
8. Crystal Palace Panda Cotton
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y39/NattyBee77/SwatchesCrochetCardi090709pandacott.jpg
Another very good candidate, and another one for which blocking will NOT cover a multitude of sins, as the yarn contains elastic. However, the elastic content also gives you good yardage for weight and lightens up a cotton garment. It's on my short list.
9. Southwest Trading Company Terra
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y39/NattyBee77/SwatchesCrochetCardi090709terra.jpg
Another yarn I definitely like -- it comes in a good range of colors, nice handle, good balance of drape and body. However, I would have to go down 1-2 hook sizes to get this to work, and I'm not sure how that would affect the fabric. I will be making more tests before I decide.

[AmyS]

I wanted to post the pictures in here, but I couldn't figure out how to do it. When I checked the FAQ and clicked on the links about resizing pics and posting clickable thumbnails, it said I didn't have permission to access the pages.

Hmmm, can you send me a PM and let me know where exactly you found the link you couldn't access? The link (http://www.crochetville.org/forum/showthread.php?t=99290) that's given in the Crochetville FAQ should be accessible to everyone. I'll go fix the FAQ once I know where the error is.

If you want the photos to appear directly in your post, you can edit your post to upload the photos as attachments following the instructions in the link I just gave. :)

[dilyca2006]

stitchaywoman. Thank you very much for the work you did!!!

[AmyS]

Just 6 more registrations needed to meet our minimum goal of 15!!!!

Personally, I'd love to see 30, 45, or more join us! :clap

[stephaniesews]

All the pictures of swatches are wonderful. Thank you so much. It helps me to narrow down my options.

If we are 1 or 2 people short will you consider having the class anyway?
It would be sooo sad to not have it. I'm off to Ravelry and twitter and facebook to talk up the class. Maybe others can do that too?

[AmyS]

All the pictures of swatches are wonderful. Thank you so much. It helps me to narrow down my options.

If we are 1 or 2 people short will you consider having the class anyway?
It would be sooo sad to not have it. I'm off to Ravelry and twitter and facebook to talk up the class. Maybe others can do that too?

Probably not, or we would have set the minimum at a lower number. :)

But we've still got until the end of the day next Friday to get the remaining 6 registrations in, so we'll probably be okay.

Yes, please do all you can to talk up the class anywhere you go online. Just be sure you follow any group's rules; I'd hate to have somebody get in trouble for promoting the class. But since y'all are students, you can do things that I can't do in other places as owner of Crochetville, since we're sponsoring the class.

[dilyca2006]

Hope that we get all the folks signed up that we can. I would hate to not have the class if not enough folks also.

[melkrose]

I just registered. I took a class at Chain Link with Jennifer and she was great. I'm looking foward to the class. I hope we get more people so the class can go foward.

[Donna]

Hmmm, can you send me a PM and let me know where exactly you found the link you couldn't access? The link (http://www.crochetville.org/forum/showthread.php?t=99290) that's given in the Crochetville FAQ should be accessible to everyone. I'll go fix the FAQ once I know where the error is. Amy, I fixed the how-to-post-photos link in the Crochetville FAQ early this morning after seeing stitchaywoman's post that it wasn't working. :blush

[dilyca2006]

Donna. you and Amy are absolutely fantastic!!!!!

[Donna]

Donna. you and Amy are absolutely fantastic!!!!! Aw, thanks! Amy has done most of the work on this CAL class, but I will be posting info and swatches later with Red Heart Luster Sheen and Royale Fashion Crochet Thread (size 3 thread). Both worked up larger than gauge for me. Correction: It looks like either of these yarns could work, more so the Luster Sheen. See my post here: http://www.crochetville.org/forum/showthread.php?t=103943&p=1851829

[dilyca2006]

Your welcome. Looking forward to your guage swatches.

[stitchaywoman]

Thanks for fixing the links -- I'll take a look after work and see if I can get the photos to work this time.

[Leslie]

I just registered! Can't wait until class starts! When is the pattern posted after you have payed for the class? thanks, Leslie

[AmyS]

I just registered! Can't wait until class starts! When is the pattern posted after you have payed for the class? thanks, Leslie

Leslie, this class is different from the others, as stated in the class description. Many people signing up for the class already had the pattern, so to make things easiest for Crochetville and Jennifer, we're having people purchase the pattern separately direct from Jennifer's website. The pattern will not be posted as part of the class.

On a good note: we now have 10 registrations, only 5 more needed to guarantee the class will hold! Come on you last 5, where are you? :lol

[Leslie]

I will order the pattern.I watched the u-tube and was enchanted with this...

[AmyS]

Leslie, it's the video that got me snared in, too! I still think I'd love to make the knitted version at some point in the future.

[dilyca2006]

The video made me want to try to learn to knit again!!!!!!!LOL

[ffsweety]

I really like this cardi and have purchased the pattern. I have one swatch completed to help me decide on what yarn. (Bernat softee baby dk which came out larger than gauge) Unfortunately I just can't afford the $30 for the class as well as the yarn but I am looking forward to seeing all the finished works. Hope you gals all have a great time.

[khammill]

I really like this cardi and have purchased the pattern. I have one swatch completed to help me decide on what yarn. (Bernat softee baby dk which came out larger than gauge) Unfortunately I just can't afford the $30 for the class as well as the yarn but I am looking forward to seeing all the finished works. Hope you gals all have a great time.

I'm in the same situation :blush I'm going to have to attempt this myself without the class. I hope you get enough people registered for the class. Good luck to everyone! I can't wait to see your finished cardi wraps!

Kris

[Donna]

It turns out my initial impressions were wrong about Red Heart Luster Sheen and Royale Fashion Crochet Thread being too large for gauge. Either of these could probably be used for the Endless Cardi Shawl. They seem to be about right once they are washed and either (1) wet blocked or (2) washed, dried, and steam ironed (known as "killing" when you do it to acrylic, as Amy mentioned earlier in this thread).

Update: It turns out my gauge on these swatches was not coming out quite correctly, but I think these yarns could still work for this project. As always, you will need to do your own gauge swatch to see if your yarn works for you. For more info, please see this post: http://www.crochetville.org/forum/showthread.php?p=1856545#post1856545

I was pleasantly surprised that Red Heart Luster Sheen killed very well. It became very soft and drapey and was shiny. Killing acrylic is supposed to be permanent, but I have not done it before, so I am going to re-wash the killed swatch and will let you know the results.

I did two swatches of each yarn (Luster Sheen and Royale Fashion Crochet Thread), one to wash and wet block and another to wash, dry, and steam iron. Both were made with the size C hook as called for by the pattern. I machine washed both yarns even though the Royale does not recommend it.


Red Heart Luster Sheen

Sport weight (fine)
100% acrylic
Care: Machine wash warm, gentle cycle. Tumble dry low. Do not over dry.


J&P Coats Royale Fashion Crochet Thread

Size 3 thread
100% mercerized cotton
Care: Machine wash, gengle cycle, warm water, no bleach, rinse well and promptly remove. Roll in towel. Block.



Luster Sheen, machine washed, and wet blocked. I probably didn't stretch it out enough while blocking to really bring out the stitch pattern, but if I had stretched it more, it wouldn't have been to gauge.
8559
8571

Royale Fashion Crochet, machine washed, and wet blocked.
8563
8574

Here are both yarns, machine washed and machine dried (this is just to show you what they looked like before ironing):
8564 8565

Luster Sheen, machine washed, machine dried, and killed (steam ironed). In the third photo, you can see how limp it is after killing, lots of drape:
8566
8572 8573

Royale Fashion Crochet, machine washed, machine dried, and steam ironed (not killed, because you can only kill acrylic):
8570
8575

My personal preference of all these swatches was the killed Luster Sheen because of its drape, softness, and shine. The steam ironed Royale Fashion Crochet had more drape than when it was wet blocked, but not nearly as much drape as the killed Luster Sheen. And you'd have to re-iron the Royale after each washing. I am going to re-wash both steam ironed swatches and post the results.

[khammill]

Thanks Donna! I would love to see the Red Heart after you rewash it. I'm very excited about the drape and appearance after killing it! It would be great it if holds up after washing - a more affordable yarn :clap

If that is the case, would it effect how you approach the pattern? would you crochet the piece, wash it, dry it, kill it, then assemble it?

Thanks again!
Kris

[Donna]

You're welcome!

I'm very excited about the drape and appearance after killing it! Me, too!

If that is the case, would it effect how you approach the pattern? would you crochet the piece, wash it, dry it, kill it, then assemble it? Good question. There actually isn't any assembly to this pattern. From stitchdiva.com: "This straightforward project is just a crocheted lace rectangle with a sumptuous edging - no shaping or seaming required." So I would finish the project, wash, dry, and then kill. I would probably do the same thing even for a pattern that required assembly because if you killed before assembly, the yarn used for assembly wouldn't be killed and would look and behave differently than the killed yarn. Keep in mind, though, that I've never killed a garment before! ;) If anyone else knows more, please chime in!

[khammill]

You're welcome!

Me, too!

Good question. There actually isn't any assembly to this pattern. From stitchdiva.com: "This straightforward project is just a crocheted lace rectangle with a sumptuous edging - no shaping or seaming required." So I would finish the project, wash, dry, and then kill. I would probably do the same thing even for a pattern that required assembly because if you killed before assembly, the yarn used for assembly wouldn't be killed and would look and behave differently than the killed yarn. Keep in mind, though, that I've never killed a garment before! ;) If anyone else knows more, please chime in!

Thanks Donna! I had already read that about the pattern, which is why I referred to it as assembling it :D

Kris

[EMedley]

I too have all my yarn thanks to 40% coupons, I swear I went into Michaels and Joann's everyday this past week. I cannot afford the class either, plus theres a lot going on around here. Can't wait to see all the finished products

[Leslie]

I bought the pattern and will begin yarn shopping soon! I hope enough people sign up for the class! This will be a bit of a challenge for me. Leslie

[melkrose]

My yarn arrived on Saturday. I'm all set for the class. I also hope enough people sign up for the class because I dont think I cant tackle this pattern alone.

[dcmo]

I just signed up for the class. I have the pattern and it makes me a little nervous haha beacuse much like another poster, I generally only work on afghan's and projects that don't require so much attention to gauge. But I'm really looking forward to it and hope to learn a lot! Now I have a few days to get some yarn and try to work up a swatch. Looking forward to working with all of you!

[stitchdiva]

First I really just want to thank Amy for the AWESOME job she has done in sharing her swatch results.

Yarn substitutions really shouldn't be taken lightly - especially if fit is a concern. It is really important to get the gauge specified in the pattern, otherwise, you just end up with a garment that doesn't fit like the garment in the pattern photo.

Another key thing to understand when swatching is washing it!! Wash the swatch and block it to get your finished gauge (unless you are going to "kill" it!) You are going to end up washing you garment at some point (hopefully...) and this WILL change the dimensions of the garment, esp. if you use a bamboo or a silk. I will be posting some unblocked photos of the garment fabric in the featured yarn a little later today or tomorrow, just to give you all a better sense of what you should be targeting in your swatch to get the same look as in the pattern photo.

I'm excited about the class and to be working together with you all!

[stitchdiva]

Oh - and I want to thank Donna too for sharing the swatch knowledge!!! One of the things I enjoy the most about teaching is how much I learn from those who are taking my classes. :o)

[AmyS]

We now have 13 of the 15 students needed!

[breeze530]

I can't afford this CAL period, right now. But I was thinking for the people who can't afford silk yarn, have you checked out Knitpicks.com? Here is a link to the page with all their DK weight yarn: http://www.knitpicks.com/yarns/yarn_list.cfm?ID=30010105
How I wish I could join.... But I have so many unfinished WIPs right now there's just no way I could justify it.

[NameThatCandy]

I won't be able to make it to this CAL, because I just can't afford the CAL fees, yarns and pattern.

But I bought the yarns and pattern, I will do it by myself.

I can't wait to see you guys' work! Have fun in the CAL.

[dilyca2006]

So I need to take my swatch and wash it to see if anything changes. I have never uesed bamboo before and didn't even think to ask about this.
Thanks!!!

[stitchaywoman]

Yarn substitutions really shouldn't be taken lightly - especially if fit is a concern. It is really important to get the gauge specified in the pattern, otherwise, you just end up with a garment that doesn't fit like the garment in the pattern photo.

Another key thing to understand when swatching is washing it!!

I second Jennifer's comments -- I tried several different yarns and I was amazed at how few swatches I liked -- and one of my "maybe" yarns ended up being the clear winner. (Ordered it today...:manyheart)
Also, yes yes YES you need to treat the swatches the way you will treat the garment. Makes a very big difference and I learned it more than once the hard way before it sunk in.
Nat

[dilyca2006]

Oh.. I am a bit stressed right now. Class starts Friday and I don't go to the laundry mat again until Saturday. Then not enough time to get other yarn. Am I unduly stressing myself, or has anyone used the naturally Caron Spa and washed it? Does it shrink any? Am I going to kick myself since I never thought about washing it before now?

[stitchdiva]

Diane -
Don't stress. Looks like Spa is working for a lot of people. You don't need to go to the laundramat, just hand wash in your sink. Usually bamboo gets larger, not smaller. Do a swatch, note your gauge, then wash it and note the gauge. You want to make sure that the gauge AFTER washing/blocking is the Blocked gauge on the pattern.

[stitchdiva]

All,
If you are using the featured yarn, I've noticed that the "Unblocked" gauge on the pattern is not correct: it should read "3.5 wide". It seems that most of you are not using the featured yarn, so this should not be an issue for you.

I also wanted to share some swatches that I have. One shows a detailed close up of the finished, blocked item with a ruler. The other shows a small unblocked swatch. They are up on our flickr feed: http://www.flickr.com/photos/stitchdiva

[dilyca2006]

Oh Good. I can get that done tomorrow then.

Diane -
Don't stress. Looks like Spa is working for a lot of people. You don't need to go to the laundramat, just hand wash in your sink. Usually bamboo gets larger, not smaller. Do a swatch, note your gauge, then wash it and note the gauge. You want to make sure that the gauge AFTER washing/blocking is the Blocked gauge on the pattern.

[stephaniesews]

wow the close up of the swatches is to die for, wish I could buy that wonderful rusty orange color. I love it .

[dilyca2006]

I know. I have been drooling over that one as well!!! Maybe, if I will continue to get 15 to 20 hours a week for a few months I can save up enough to buy some of the yarn!!!

wow the close up of the swatches is to die for, wish I could buy that wonderful rusty orange color. I love it .

[Donna]

Note to everybody: Even if you plan to use a yarn Amy or I have swatched, please remember to do your own swatch to be sure you have gauge. Your gauge may not be the same as someone else's. Treat the swatch as you will treat the final garment: wash, dry, block, kill, whatever. After doing all that, you will want your swatch to meet the blocked gauge listed on the pattern.

[Donna]

Update on my swatches (Luster Sheen and Royale Fashion) from this post:
http://www.crochetville.org/forum/showthread.php?p=1851829#post1851829

For some reason, I had in my head the unblocked gauge and not the blocked gauge. (Note to self: always double check the pattern!) (And the unblocked gauge printed in the pattern was actually incorrect anyway as Jennifer/stitchdiva recently mentioned in this thread. And it only applies to the silk yarn called for by the pattern.) Anyhow, if you look at the rulers in my photos, you will see that my blocked and killed swatches were meeting the pattern's unblocked gauge, not the blocked gauge. But I think these yarns still could work for this pattern. As always, you will need to do your own swatch to check your own gauge before starting the pattern.

[stitchaywoman]

I know. I have been drooling over that one as well!!! Maybe, if I will continue to get 15 to 20 hours a week for a few months I can save up enough to buy some of the yarn!!!

Me three! That's definitely my lusted-for color and yarn combination. I'm losing weight; this may be my reward for when I hit my goal.

[dilyca2006]

OK. I have another question. Is the Naturally Caron Bamboo a yarn that can be "killed" I am starting to wonder if I may be needing a smaller hook. Better go hand wash that swatch I did and see if it grows any. Thanks guys.

[Donna]

Only acrylic can be killed.

[dilyca2006]

OK... One more question. I promise I am really not stupid!!!!:D
If it is an acrylic blend. This CAron bamboo is 75% acrylic and 25% bamboo. Will the bamboo blend in with the acrylic keep the acrylic from being killed.
I am only asking cause this is the first time that I have ever delt with killing acrylic and making sure that the guage is still ok after washing!!
I should have taken your class Amy on the making sure of guage!!!!!!

Only acrylic can be killed.

[Donna]

If it is an acrylic blend. This CAron bamboo is 75% acrylic and 25% bamboo. Will the bamboo blend in with the acrylic keep the acrylic from being killed. Oops, sorry! I didn't realize it was mostly acrylic. That may be enough acrylic to allow it to be killed, but I will check with Amy to be sure.

[dilyca2006]

You know. I could always try it with my swatch when it dries to see what happens with it!!!!
Thanks Donna.


Oops, sorry! I didn't realize it was mostly acrylic. That may be enough acrylic to allow it to be killed, but I will check with Amy to be sure.

[stephaniesews]

Is the lace stitch pattern used for the body a common stitch or is it a stitch Diva original ? Just currious, it's very pretty, I don't think I have ever seen it in my stitch "dictionary" .

[Hookin Catluvr]

C'mon Y'all, only 2 more days including today to register! We've got to get enough people to have this class! :cheer:cheer:cheer:cheer:cheer

[khammill]

C'mon Y'all, only 2 more days including today to register! We've got to get enough people to have this class! :cheer:cheer:cheer:cheer:cheer


How many people are registered? Has everyone done their swatch?
Kris

[sheri72]

I just signed up today! As soon as my pattern becomes available, I'm going to swatch my Spa and see how things go.

Sheri

[Donna]

How many people are registered? Has everyone done their swatch?
Kris Right now we have 14.

[khammill]

That is great! I'm sure 1 more person will sign up before Friday!

[stephaniesews]

Yea... only 1 more person. I am swatching right now, but I think I'm making a mistake. It looks a little sloppy. I think I'll start over and if it still looks wrong I'll post a picture. I might be doing something in the wrong place, that is my usuall error when I start a new crochet stitch.

[Leslie]

I am going to buy some yarn tonight and work on the swatch after work! Can't wait for class to begin. Leslie

[greengablewoolens]

Hello All
I have been looking forward to making this shawl and this class. My big stumbling block is making a yarn decision. I have looked and looked and still I have not purchased anything. Usually this is not a problem for me but I want this to be something that I will wear a lot and I am definitely a blue jeans girl most days. I have knitted several garments with Tilli Thomas yarns but I really consider them "dressy" items. I am thinking Classic Elite Wool Bam Boo-solid or Panda Silk DK in a variegated colorway- it just doesn't seem as dressy as the Studio or Tilli silk. I would appreciate any feedback and opinions since I really need to purchase soon and swatch. I would like to start this weekend. Please help.
Tonia

[AmyS]

My Naturally Caron Spa (75% acrylic, 25% bamboo) stayed "killed" after washing and machine drying.

I just swatched two more yarns. The first is Red Heart LusterSheen in Chocolate, with is just a tiny bit larger than blocked gauge after blocking. I'm going to work this up in a size small.

Unblocked:
8806

Blocked:
8808

The second swatch is Knit Picks Gloss yarn (70% wool, 30% silk), which comes out a little bit larger than gauge. I will work this one up in a size extra-small.

Unblocked:
8807

Blocked:
8809

This last swatch is of some DK silk I ordered in as a sample from colourmart.com in the UK. It came out larger than gauge, but the drape is very nice and the silk feels so good! I think I might be able to work by just making a size smaller than I really need. But I can't afford all that silk right now. :(

Oh, this one also shows what the swatch looks like when you start working the second half of the shawl.

8805

[Leslie]

What does stayed killed mean? I never done a swatch before.I just bought some very pretty Spa yarn and hope it will be O.K. What colors has everyone selected? Leslie

[stitcher123]

Okay.....I did it....I bought Caron Spa yarn tonight at JoAnn's (they had exactly the right number of same color dyelot skeins), downloaded the pattern earlier this week and I also just signed up for the class and just paid through Paypal...does this mean the class is a go???

I've crocheted a long time but have always been a baby afghan type of crocheter. I did do baby sweaters but that was many years ago. After reading the pattern I think I will be asking lots of questions. I hope you don't all mind.

Looking forward to starting....probably won't get a swatch done until this weekend....but I can't wait!!!!!

JILL from WI
stitcher123

[AmyS]

We now have the 15 registrations required for the CAL to happen! :cheer :clap

Of course, we'd love to have even more participants. If you've been thinking about joining the CAL, go ahead and register, even if you don't have your yarn decision made yet. Registration will close either at midnight central time on Friday night or early Saturday morning, depending on how late I'm up. (I'll have been at a high school football game helping out with the band, followed by a "5th Quarter" event at my church for all the students who want to come afterward.) I may be too tired to close out registration Friday night, in which case I'll do it when I wake up Saturday morning.

Even if you need to order yarn and it won't arrive until mid-next week, since the CAL will last for 4 weeks, you'll still have plenty of time to get your Cardi completed.

[AmyS]

After reading the pattern I think I will be asking lots of questions. I hope you don't all mind.


Jill, as long as your questions aren't on the level of "How do I make a single crochet?" or "What's a double crochet?" you should be just fine. Many of us will have questions about gauge, or exactly where to work the next stitch, and that sort of thing.

Those of us with digital cameras can also share close-ups of our work if that will help anybody visualize where stitches should go.

The stitch pattern seems tricky at first, but once you know how things work, it's very easy, and you won't even need to look at the pattern anymore. It's an easy-to-remember lace pattern.

[stitcher123]

Amy, I can't wait.....I think I will be okay....I've done a similar looking lace type scarf off of Ravelry recently, so I think once I get into the pattern I will be okay.....but I definitely am a VISUAL type of person. I love going to youtube and watching stitches....I seem to get the complicated ones so much easier.

What color is everyone doing and are they doing the sleeveless or sleeved version?

I'm using Caron Spa in color OCEAN SPRAY and I think I will do the sleeved version.

JILLfromWI

[AmyS]

For my first one (the one for the CAL), I'm using Red Heart LusterSheen in dark Chocolate. This will be for my sister for Christmas, and that's the color she preferred.

I may do one for my other sister later in Knit Picks Gloss in Bordeaux.

I think I may have dh order some silk from colourmart.com for me for Christmas, so I can make one for myself. Not sure yet what color, but they have a beautiful dark purple. :D

[dilyca2006]

Woo Hoo. Enough for the class.
I am wondering if I may want to go down a size on my pattern. I have not killed my swatch yet to see if I want to do that with the whole item, but, here is what I have with my swatch. they are both larger then what the guage says for it to be.
well. I was going to post a picture, but, the paperclip that is usually up top is not there for me to upload the pix.

ok. my swatch using a size C hook and my Naturally Caron Spa were... Before washing 3.75 inches tall and 4.75 wide. After washing... 4 inches tall and 5 inches wide.

Now. I was going to make the size XL as I don't like my clothes to fit quite like the item is shown on. I am between size L and XL. Will the fact that my guage swatch really throw off the sizing of the completed item??

[AmyS]

Since I haven't actually done it, I don't know how well it would have worked. But if I had gone with the Caron Spa, my plan was to make a size smaller than I would have needed if I'd been able to get gauge.

[dilyca2006]

Got ya!!!
After I posted that I was wondering if it were something that our teacher would be able to respond on. I realize that she will not be able, and I don't want her to, re work the pattern to fit my guage. I am hoping that she will be able to direct me on how to fit my guage to her pattern.

Amy. Have I told you how much I appreciate all the leg work you have done??? You and Donna on making the swatches and working through the yarn with us all.

Since I haven't actually done it, I don't know how well it would have worked. But if I had gone with the Caron Spa, my plan was to make a size smaller than I would have needed if I'd been able to get gauge.

[stephaniesews]

Finished my swatch, turns out I was doing the crossed dc wrong. Once I figured that out it all fell into place. Still a little confusion at the beginning and ends of the rows but I think once I do a few rows it will become clear. And Jennifer probably has tips. I'm super excited about the class, thank you soooo much for setting it up. :cheer

My swatch is exactly 4 inches by 2 1/2 on a c hook. I am using spa in misty taupe. I am a 36 bust and was planning to make the 35 1/2 but I haven't blocked this yet so that could change my size choice.
I have a picture just need to go read up on how to post it.

[AmyS]

Stephanie, I found that my Spa swatch grew considerable after swatching. Let us know how yours turns out.

[AmyS]

Diane, thank you so much for your appreciation. :blush Donna and I have been very happy to do all this work with the swatching. The Tilli Tomas silk yarn is actually a pretty difficult yarn to find a good substitute for, so we wanted to do everything we could to make sure each student found a suitable substitute that met their needs.

We realize it's a big chunk of change to buy the pattern and yarn and then pay a class fee on top of that. So anything we can do to help out the students, we're very happy to do.

I promise, if I ever get to a state where there's a lottery and manage to buy a winning lottery ticket, I'll buy each student in the CAL enough yarn to make the shawl in their size in the Tilli Tomas yarn!

[ctawq]

I promise, if I ever get to a state where there's a lottery and manage to buy a winning lottery ticket, I'll buy each student in the CAL enough yarn to make the shawl in their size in the Tilli Tomas yarn!


Oooohhh Amy, that sound wonderful!! Better watch out some of us have long memories :rofl

I can't wait until the end of the class for your posting of the cardi for your sister. That chocolate looks beautiful after it's blocking, almost like tempered chocolate. :lol



:mug:cat:yarn

[melkrose]

I am also using Luster Sheen in chocolate. Last night I started to make my swatch and realized I didnt have a small enough hook. So tonight I'm off to the craft store. I did practice the pattern and it does take a little getting used to. Thank goodness there is a cal to help out on the difficult parts.

[dilyca2006]

winning the lottery!!LOL Amy, your way to funny.


Diane, thank you so much for your appreciation. :blush Donna and I have been very happy to do all this work with the swatching. The Tilli Tomas silk yarn is actually a pretty difficult yarn to find a good substitute for, so we wanted to do everything we could to make sure each student found a suitable substitute that met their needs.

We realize it's a big chunk of change to buy the pattern and yarn and then pay a class fee on top of that. So anything we can do to help out the students, we're very happy to do.

I promise, if I ever get to a state where there's a lottery and manage to buy a winning lottery ticket, I'll buy each student in the CAL enough yarn to make the shawl in their size in the Tilli Tomas yarn!

[dilyca2006]

Amy and Donna.
Wondering where the paperclip went to be able to post pictures???

[stitchaywoman]

Hello All
I am thinking Classic Elite Wool Bam Boo-solid or Panda Silk DK[.]
Tonia
There's a Panda Silk DK??!! :eek The Panda Silk I saw was gorgeous but I only saw a fingering weight.
Oh, well. I already ordered my yarn.
I'm doing mine with Araucania Ruca -- the main issue with that yarn, however, is that there only seems to be one shade (the one I got) that isn't highly variegated in color. I got a brown tonal blend which won't distract from the stitch pattern and the fabric I got had just the right body.
Another yarn that made a really good fabric is the SWTC Terra -- my swatch was a little bigger than gauge but I'm sure I could have gone down a hook size with it. That was my #2 choice, only because I had to have the Araucania after I finished my swatch. But I also loved the Terra and it wouldn't be too formidable in price. It's a cotton-bamboo blend and would make a more casual garment.
I posted links to the pics of my swatches earlier in this thread.

[Donna]

Amy and Donna.
Wondering where the paperclip went to be able to post pictures??? It was an oversight in the forum settings. It should be fixed now, and the paperclip should be there.

[dcmo]

Finished my swatch, turns out I was doing the crossed dc wrong. Once I figured that out it all fell into place. Still a little confusion at the beginning and ends of the rows but I think once I do a few rows it will become clear.

I think I'm having the same problem, I don't think my crossed dc's are right on my swatch but I'm not positive what I'm doing wrong. I'm going to play around with it some more today. I'm glad you figured it out!

[AmyS]

I think I'm having the same problem, I don't think my crossed dc's are right on my swatch but I'm not positive what I'm doing wrong. I'm going to play around with it some more today. I'm glad you figured it out!

We'll be sure to get things working right for everyone when the CAL starts tomorrow.

[dilyca2006]

Thanks. Still am not seeing a paperclip for here, but, that is ok. i am sure once we get going on the class that there will be one there. I am not real concerned about it here!!LOL


It was an oversight in the forum settings. It should be fixed now, and the paperclip should be there.

[AmyS]

Thanks. Still am not seeing a paperclip for here, but, that is ok. i am sure once we get going on the class that there will be one there. I am not real concerned about it here!!LOL

It's there now. I just triple-checked. :)

[dilyca2006]

I see it now also!!!!!!!LOL
Thanks!!!!!:clap


It's there now. I just triple-checked. :)

[khammill]

Wohoooo! I actually did a gauge swatch..AND I killed it!!! 2 firsts for me :hook I am using Caron Spa, and I found that it grew more in width than height (I forgot to write down the measurements before I killed it :blush).

8829

Has anyone figured out whether the piece should be killed before assembly or after?

Kris

[dilyca2006]

from what I have scanned and from what I have read on here, there is not assembling. Will have to read the pattern better though. If you kill before assembly of a project the yarn used to put it together will not be killed and then be different from the rest of it. So. If it is an assembled project I would imagine it would be better to kill after.

[dilyca2006]

my swatches of my naturally caron spa
first is the swatch, second is swatch after washing and blocking and 3rd is after killing. I don't think I will be killing this item after making it. I am not sure I like the look of this yarn killed

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8833

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[AmyS]

Has anyone figured out whether the piece should be killed before assembly or after?

That's probably a question better suited for Jennifer to answer during the CAL. The answer could also be dependent upon the yarn used and how much it changes after killing.

[dilyca2006]

your right Amy.. I didn't mean to jump in and step on any toes

[khammill]

Since I haven't actually done it, I don't know how well it would have worked. But if I had gone with the Caron Spa, my plan was to make a size smaller than I would have needed if I'd been able to get gauge.

So if I want a Medium (based on the measurements), and am using Caron Spa (guage swatch was bigger than pattern's) would you suggest make a Small?

Kris

[khammill]

That's probably a question better suited for Jennifer to answer during the CAL. The answer could also be dependent upon the yarn used and how much it changes after killing.

Thanks Amy, but I wasn't able to swing the class :blush so I was asking swatch / yarn questions before the class. Hope that is ok.

Kris

[AmyS]

Thanks Amy, but I wasn't able to swing the class :blush so I was asking swatch / yarn questions before the class. Hope that is ok.

Kris

Kris, I'm sorry you can't take the CAL class. :( We would have loved to have you with us.

It's fine to be asking the same yarn/swatch classes that everyone else is asking here prior to starting the class. That information is publicly here for everyone to take advantage of, and it's fine for those not taking the class to offer their opinions on the public discussion, too. We're all for sharing with each other.

But questions that go beyond the basics of trying to make sure everyone gets started with a good yarn really do need to be covered as part of the class, at least as far as "official" answers go. Expecting the teacher to give certain specifics away outside of the CAL classroom wouldn't be right. (I don't think that's what you wanted, though; I think you were just asking the question of everyone participating in the thread.) So while I'm not comfortable answering that particular question at the moment, if others want to give general information (that might apply to any garment, and not just this one in particular) about when to assemble and when to kill a garment, I don't think there's any problem with that. :)

[khammill]

Kris, I'm sorry you can't take the CAL class. :( We would have loved to have you with us.

It's fine to be asking the same yarn/swatch classes that everyone else is asking here prior to starting the class. That information is publicly here for everyone to take advantage of, and it's fine for those not taking the class to offer their opinions on the public discussion, too. We're all for sharing with each other.

But questions that go beyond the basics of trying to make sure everyone gets started with a good yarn really do need to be covered as part of the class, at least as far as "official" answers go. Expecting the teacher to give certain specifics away outside of the CAL classroom wouldn't be right. (I don't think that's what you wanted, though; I think you were just asking the question of everyone participating in the thread.) So while I'm not comfortable answering that particular question at the moment, if others want to give general information (that might apply to any garment, and not just this one in particular) about when to assemble and when to kill a garment, I don't think there's any problem with that. :)

Thanks Amy! I'm going to start another thread that does not mention the pattern to see if anyone has experience with killing (:lol sorry that term still makes me laugh) yarn.
Kris

[Hookin Catluvr]

I haven't had a chance to swatch yet, but I'm determined to get it done Saturday, then get started on the cardi this weekend also.

[stephaniesews]

I washed my swatch, threw it in the machine with a load of laundry. It was originally 4 inches by 2 1/2 after washing it is 4 1/2 by slightly smaller then 2 1/2. So I'm not sure what size I'll be making. I had planned to do the 35 1/2 because I measure 36 but now I'm thinking 33 1/2. To be totally honest I don't love the yarn after it's been washed but at this point ,with the class starting tommorow, and me anxious to start, I feel like I'm stuck with it.
I like the yarn just maybe not for this?? I feel like I want a yarn that is more ...slippery.


picture is before washing

[khammill]

I washed my swatch, threw it in the machine with a load of laundry. It was originally 4 inches by 2 1/2 after washing it is 4 1/2 by slightly smaller then 2 1/2. So I'm not sure what size I'll be making. I had planned to do the 35 1/2 because I measure 36 but now I'm thinking 33 1/2. To be totally honest I don't love the yarn after it's been washed but at this point ,with the class starting tommorow, and me anxious to start, I feel like I'm stuck with it.
I like the yarn just maybe not for this?? I feel like I want a yarn that is more ...slippery.


picture is before washing

What yarn are you using? What fiber is it? It is is acrylic, try killing :lol it - cover the dry swatch with a WET towel and press down with a HOT iron. See my posts above - I'm using Caron Spa which is a 75% Microdenier Acrylic and 25% Rayon from Bamboo. I also started a new thread on experiences with killing :lol yarn http://www.crochetville.org/forum/showthread.php?t=104971&highlight=kill there are no replies yet, but I'm hoping people will share their thoughts...

Kris

[stephaniesews]

opps I'm sorry I left out the yarn info because I had posted it eariler and wasn't thinking this time. It is the spa. I don't like the way it looks "dead" or after killing it. I did two swatches so I coould see it both ways. I have killed acrylic with other projects and did like it but I like the stitch pattern better before killing.

[dcmo]

No posts in the classroom yet and I guess I'm too new to begin a thread so please forgive me if I shouldn't ask this here. I just wanted to confirm the last part of row 1. I have completed the pattern portion of the row and end up with the right number of crossed double crochets. This leaves me with five unworked chains from the foundation row. I'm not sure if I follow the next instructions to turn 10 times (for example) and ch-5 spaces. Can someone please help? Thanks in advance!! I really want this to work out.

[Donna]

I understand everyone's eager to begin their Cardi Shawls, but questions about working the pattern should be in the classroom only. I know Jennifer is not in the classroom yet, but she will be some time today.

After the classroom has posted her opening thread in the classroom, we'll be closing this thread to further responses.

[AmyS]

The Endless Cardi CAL classroom is now active, so I'm closing this thread to encourage all student participation to take place in the classroom.

For those new to Crochetville, if you're still not familiar with our forum navigation, you can find the Endless Cardi CAL classroom here (http://www.crochetville.org/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=318). (This link will only work for registered students.)

If any students cannot access the classroom, please send me a PM so I can get things working for you.