How Have You Altered Knitting Patterns?
Tuesday November 3, 2009
But I also know a lot of people are afraid to make such changes to patterns they knit. Some people won't even go as far as to change the color or use a different yarn if the one called for has been discontinued or if, say, you're allergic or sensitive to the material used.
So this week I'd like to know how you have deviated from published knitting patterns you've worked. If you've seriously altered a pattern and loved the results, we'd like to hear about that, too.
Comments
I started my fiber life as a seamstress, so my outlook on patterns maybe different than someone who just knits or crochets. Patterns are just a guide line that helps me express my creative self. When I sew it is not unusual for me to combine two or three patterns to get the look I want. I am a new knitter and my first sweater I am knitting my daughter has added shaping to fit her figure (her hips are a size larger), in the colors she wanted. I will say because it is my first sweater I found one that was plain and designed for the yarn I had. The next sweater I have planned is not designed for the yarn I have. I like the yarn and the pattern and I think they will go together if I can get gauge.
One thing that does puzzle me, is why knitters put up with, what appears to be, the lack of standardization in pattern designing. It is my perception that there is a lot of knitting-by-faith. So once I figure out some basic well fitted garments I will probably design my own so I know what I make will fit the intended recipient.
Usually, I am inspired by the fiber first, and then try to find a pattern that will work with that fiber. The result is; I am always changing the patterns! I average three knitted gauges per sweater as I work it out. However, I knit because I enjoy the process so I don’t stress. If its a sweater for myself, I figure I will own it 20 years so what does it matter if I rip a few rows to make an adjustment. The result is uniquely my own.
I do keep an inventory of patterns that are basic sweater shapes, and necklines. This gives me a jumping-off point.
I am a spinner and dyer, so I don’t make yarn which is standardised. If I like the design of the pattern, then I will “make it work”. Remember people, “There ain’t no Knitting Police!”
I have often used different yarns and different colors. Years ago I was making a textured sweater, but when i got the body made and was ready to start the sleeves, i decided i could use it much more if i left it as a vest – that was the beginning of my changing patterns to my liking. Recently i was making an “Einstein coat” but i hated the bat-like sleeves that started out very wide at the shoulder and narrowed to the wrist. I narrowed the upper sleeve and made them straight to the wrist, planning to make a turn-back. However, i was using up Homespun skeins i had in my stash, creating a color-block look and when i made the first sleeve i ran out of that color yarn at a length just below the elbow – sooooo, the sleeves became bracelet length!
I have gotten many compliments on it and wear it often. …………………… jean