Friday, January 13, 2012

FO: Gap-tastic cowl

My first knitted FO of 2012 is done!
This is the Gap-tastic Cowl by Jen Geigley, which was inspired by a large seed stitch cowl she spotted at the Gap. It's been a popular pattern on Ravelry (), and I can see why. It's trendy and cute as well as an easy and quick knit.
I modified mine by knitting 130 stitches in moss stitch rather than seed stitch. My yarn (Wool of the Andes Bulky) isn't as thick as the Lion Brand Chunky used in the pattern, so in the specified gauge, my knit was a bit less firm. I like the way it drapes, but in order to get the chunky, sturdy look I thought moss stitch would be better. I do like the way it turned out.
It's a good thing I like it, since after a few rows, it bored me to tears to knit, which is probably why it took me nearly two weeks to finish it. Endless rounds of k2p2 needed to be interspersed with more interesting knitting. Per the pattern, it should have been 15 inches wide, but at 10 inches, I just couldn't knit it anymore, so I cast off. I'm glad I did, since it is just about the perfect width for me. Any wider and I think it would be too bulky around my neck.
In the sewing room, I'm still plugging away at the coat. It is completely amazing (if I do say so myself) and very close to being finished, but the hand work is starting to burn me out, and I've found myself thinking of taking shortcuts, which I don't want to do with this coat, so I may take a little break, whip up a quickie and then come back to my coat ready to don my thimble and sew away. Want a sneak peek?
Oh, I can't wait to show you the whole thing!!

8 comments:

Pam said...

Congrats on your newly finished object:) That makes me want to take up knitting. Seriously - love it!

Andrea said...

I just love your coat fabric, looking forward to your finished project. I'm sure it will be gorgeous.

Anonymous said...

Moss stitch bores me too but I like the look. The coat teaser looks like good fabric.It will be nice to see it finished but don,t take short cuts.
Brenda in the Boro UK also LDS

Cindy said...

I like the cowl and can't wait to see the finished coat!!

Marjie said...

Nice cowl, and great coat preview. You should turn out something quick, so you don't get burned out on your handsewing and take shortcuts you'll regret later. Just claim you're having a short burst of ADD and tending to it. That's my excuse when I take a break during something.

Beth said...

Cute cowl--I tried one on in the store and thought if I wear one I will have to make it b/c they are all very big.
Nice pattern matching on the jacket.

Kristy Chan said...

Your cowl looks very cozy and warm - something not often needed here in Sydney unfortunately because I really like the look. And while it may have bored you, k2p2 would suit my patience and knitting skills nicely!

Taki J said...

I am knitting that cowl too!!! It has taken forever since I typically only knit on the weekends. Mine surely won't get to 15 inches wide either.