First Lace
My first lace project is from the book Victorian Lace Today. The pattern is for a large rectangular shawl, but this will be a tiny scarf instead, because I replaced the yarn with Habu 2-ply cashmere and I am working with US #0 needles. Yes, I'm crazy that way. Probably should have used a thicker yarn for my first lace, but I'm not good at being sensible.
So, here is the scarf in progress with about five repeats done. I love the yarn and the color. I know yellow is not a flattering color for my complexion, but if I have to sustain my interest in this project, I need something I really like.
After a very slow beginning, I followed Theresa's advice and transcribed my chart into individual row instructions that I wrote on separate cards held together by a ring. I knit one row, flip the card, and it's going much faster and smoother this way. Whoever came up with that idea, deserves a good bottle of wine.
Wish me luck for the next 25 repeats or so. I still have no clue how to knit and attach the border, but I'll worry about that later.
Comments
Oh, that notecard idea is amazing! What a great way to combine row counting with the chart. Hooray!
Posted by: The Feminist Mafia | January 9, 2007 12:31 PM
oh wow, that is so beautiful!
Posted by: stephanie s | January 9, 2007 12:36 PM
I do that with all my charts, whether it's Fair Isle, lace, Arans, etc.
I love that pattern & yellow suits me! (That was a hint ;-)
Posted by: Marina | January 9, 2007 12:41 PM
Wow! Now I'm going to have to buy the book.
Posted by: Katie | January 9, 2007 12:41 PM
And you said you couldn't knit lace - it looks fantastic!
Posted by: rhea | January 9, 2007 1:01 PM
Sta uscendo un bellissimo lavoro. Mi piace l'idea di usare l'anello delle schede con la descrizione dei singoli ferri. Il vino certamente te lo meriti. Alla Tua salute!
Posted by: Zita | January 9, 2007 1:17 PM
I'm so amazed that this is your first lace. You do such increadible colorwork that I'm positive you'll accomplish anything you desire!!!
Posted by: Sachi | January 9, 2007 1:20 PM
Oohh Francesca! What a beautiful first lace project. Are you sure you've never knit lace? Maybe in a previous life? I am mightily impressed with your efforts. And good luck on the reps. I only have 40 more to go on the shawl border I am working on, seven done. In a year. We'll say no more about that.
Posted by: Ann in Montreal | January 9, 2007 1:51 PM
you're crrrraaazzzzy!
but absolutely inpsiring.
way to jump into the world of lace knitting with both feet ;)
and yes, the yellow is gorgeous!
Posted by: andrea | January 9, 2007 2:05 PM
It's absolutely gorgeous... I can only wish my first attempt turns out that well! I like the yellow, too - very delicate without being washed out.
Posted by: Genevieve | January 9, 2007 4:10 PM
That is absolutely gorgeous. Individual cards per row, hmmmm? What a great idea. Thanks for sharing that. The few times I have worn yellow my friends usually ask me if I have jaundice. Apparently it's not my color either. LOL I still love the color but never wear it.
Posted by: Barbp | January 9, 2007 5:15 PM
You are off to a great start! If anyone can pull it off, you can!
Posted by: Bobbi | January 9, 2007 5:40 PM
Oh, that is beautiful.
Posted by: Rose | January 9, 2007 5:52 PM
ahhhhhhhhhh....... Habu 2-ply cashmere, how lovely for a first lace project. It looks so delicate and lovely. My first lace was with Habu silk.
To be honest I have looked at that yarn for a long time, to nervous to even think about knitting with it. Good job on the courage.
Posted by: kitty kitty | January 9, 2007 7:13 PM
That's a great color, and the knitting looks good, too. :) Knitted on borders are a lot of fun - you'll like it.
How is that Habu? I want some. :)
Posted by: natalie | January 9, 2007 7:30 PM
It's looking lovely! It will be so fabulous when it's all blocked out.... And you'll figure out that edging in no time, I'm sure! :)
Posted by: alice | January 10, 2007 7:25 AM
Goooooooorgeus, and perfect for our So. Cal weather. Did you say "FIRST LACE PROJECT?" hmph.... :) :)
Posted by: Magalie | January 10, 2007 7:44 AM
Found your blog indirectly. Love the lace. Yellow has got to be my favorite color and your lace is beautiful in that shade. I like that you're "crazy that way." Things done tiny--well, they're just special. Why learn something new the easy way? Jump right in, girl!
Posted by: Laura | January 10, 2007 2:03 PM
Looks wonderful! I can't believe all the stuff you do. Can't wait to see the finished scarf...
And the books are wonderful. I want to come to Kinokuniya with you next time!
See you soon I hope!
Posted by: JoShell | January 11, 2007 7:17 PM
Very beautiful! Thin yarn on small needles are pretty! You just need a little bit more patience and good lighting to do lace in thin yarn ... but it would be more lovely than thick one.
Posted by: Agnes | January 13, 2007 1:33 PM