Aug 19 - cast on for the gauge swatch. I am not using a chunky yarn, so I need to do some math to figure out what “size” to knit. It looks like I’m in luck that M is not a huge guy, it looks like I’ll use the XL pattern.

Sep 27 - so far so good. Working on the two front panels, have added only minimal 2 stitch selvage to both sides, with a slipped stitch border (a la Brooklyn Tweed’s mod). I don’t like so much extra stuff on both sides of the zipper, because I feel it disturbs the front center design element.

Nov 17 - working on the sleeves now, and it’s starting to feel like the end is in reach.

Dec 7 - now joining seams for the sweater. It’s very exciting to see the end near. I did use smaller needles for the neck, to keep it more snug and fitted.

Dec 12 - Inserting zipper carefully: I hand basted it in place with zipper closed, then stitched it with a sewing machine in the ‘ditch’ of purl stitches, then hand-stitched another row (closer to the zipper to control the floppiness) using backstitch. Done with the zipper, done with the sweater. It looks great on Matthew.