My First Sweater!

After seeing all the cute sweaters that Dawn makes, I've been wanting to give it a go. So, I bit the bullet, picked up Burda 8028 and 2 yards of sweater knit from Gorgeous Fabrics. This was so easy, I know I'll me making more sweaters! I cut into the fabric this morning, and had wore the sweater out the door at 2pm to Thanksgiving dinner! Here's what I ended up with:The Burda pattern has 4 different collars and 2 different lengths, so I opted for collar B and length D. I didn't use all of the 2 yards, but came pretty close. It only required 4 pieces: front back, sleeve and collar, so that was pretty simple. My sewing table looked a little like a cocker spaniel exploded as the chenille created lots of little yarn pieces floating around. The vacuum was used twice in the construction of this single sweater!

The pattern instructions were great, and I used my serger for nearly the entire project. Preparing the collar, attaching it, and hemming the sleeves required my regular machine. One word of warning: a pleated sweater knit collar is bulky and requires patience. I broke 2 serger needles today (I think from pulling too hard on the knit as it was exiting the serger) during the pleated collar fiasco, but I should know better. The pattern runs a little big, so cut on the small side. I cut my normal Burda size and could've cut a size smaller. Also, if you choose to go with length D like I did, you may want to add a couple inches in length. I cheated and serged the edge, but didn't actually hem it, because I like the length exactly where it is. Shhhhh, don't tell.

*Note: This sweater knit is very drapey, so the collar doesn't fold and pleat like the pattern picture, but it still lays nicely and is comfortable, not constricting.

The sweater knit is fabulous. I have to admit, when it first arrived I thought, "Bathroom rugs? When did I order bathroom rugs?) but it's so superbly soft, I quickly knocked the shaggy ideas from my head to forged ahead. Yes, it's messy to work with, but it's so freakin' soft... with the collar style I chose, it made me feel like I was totally wrapped up in my favorite fuzzy scarf.

So, if you're looking to try sweater knits, go for it! And this pattern is a winner, I'll definitely be using it again!

On a side note, I've been MIA for a couple weeks with other responsibilities. Embroidery's been a biggie, and I had a special project that had top priority. I work with an amazing lady that I've actually known for 20 years (she was my world history teacher when I was in high school) and she's been diagnosed with ovarian cancer for a second time. Last Friday, the staff showed her our love and support by wearing teal, the color for Ovarian Cancer Awareness. I volunteered to make staff t-shirts honoring her, and she also requested a special shirt of her own. 30 t-shirts later... we raised over $600 from staff and student donations towards Ovarian Cancer Research, and shared a very special day with a very special lady. Below, you can see the shirt I made her and the shirt I made for the staff. We wore our hearts on our sleeves...