I knit the bulk of this while visiting my parents. So there’s lots of love along with the associated feelings of home, comfort and safety knit into this garment. Isn’t that just what a cardigan should feel like?

I also joined a fantastic KAL over at the SkeinQueenery group. I was warmly welcomed in and got some fantastic tips, inspiration and support from all of the knitters there. My first KAL. It was a wonderful experience.

This was such a pleasure to knit. As I was following the pattern to the letter (I only added length in the body and sleeves), I was struck by the intelligence that lay behind this design. There are so many clever nuances, and many things I learned along the way, and yet the pattern was written with such thoughtfulness that it all came very easily to me. The design felt simple, even though it was not. I think that takes heaps of skill, talent, and intelligence on the part of the designer - Ysolda Teague.

I also think it’s telling that I feel good about the finished product. I am certain I followed the pattern correctly. And I love how it turned out, how it fits, and I know that I will wear it often.

My one important tip: Make sure you knit the slip stitches loosely. Or follow TheKnitterteched’s advice and use a larger needle for those stitches.

Also re: Swish DK -- my swatch didn’t stretch one bit when I blocked it. The sweater stretched just the littlest bit lengthwise, but I’m glad for that.