While the pattern calls for linen, I wanted to use cashmere. I adjusted to the lace weight of the yarn by knitting a gauge and then picking a size that, in the tighter gauge, would yield the right size sweater.

I wanted the smallest size and ended going up two sizes. It’s a little big -- it’s 36-37” vs 34-35” but it’s not TOO relaxed.

If I had it to do all over again, I would knit it a little smaller. And, that would require only three skeins, saving nearly $50. I had almost a full skein (37 grams) left over, enough to knit a little Be My Angel scarf.

The pattern is straightforward. It’s knit top down, which is great because there are no seams. When you’re done knitting, you have only the ends to sew in to finish the sweater.

The only change I would make if I were to knit it again would be to pick up an extra stitch on each side of the armhole to try to chose the gaps that are there.

My big problem was not with the pattern but with the yarn. I bought four skeins and checked carefully that they were all the same color and dyelot. But one was dramatically lighter. The transition was really noticeable.

I ended up having to take out the first, lighter skein and work it in for one row every fourth row down the back where it would make as little visual trouble as possible. It still shows and I had dozens of ends to sew in (grrrr.)

At $48.90 per skein this lack of consistency is absolutely outrageous. I plan to go to Purl and show them so they can give Jade Sapphire feedback.