I have a confession to make: every single time I give someone a handmade gift, I'm nervous. What if they don't like it? It's not like they can return it to a store. With this particular project, I'm even more nervous than usual because I don't know the recipients all that well. I probably wouldn't have even attempted a handmade item in this case but Tim (who has known one of them forever) kept saying that it was a perfect idea for this couple.
Without further ado, here's the finished throw that I've been working on for the last couple of weeks:
Project Stats:
Pattern: Totally Autumn by Anne Hanson (knitspot), free from Knitty
Yarn: Malabrigo Chunky in Oceanos (variegated blues)
Needles: #10 Addi Naturas
Started: 13 September 2008
Finished: 28 September 2008
Modifications: nothing other than yarn selection
Raveled
I think the variegated yarn makes it insanely difficult to get a good photo of this throw. The lace pattern does show up really nicely in real life, but I feel like it's obscured in photos. Here's a close up that might show off the pattern a bit more:
Other than having a hard time getting a good photo, I have no complaints about this pattern or the FO. The pattern, as with all of Anne's patterns, was well-written and clear. I've discovered that I really enjoy doing lace patterns in heavier weight yarns - this retains the challenge of lace but keeps the project moving along at a brisker pace. This particular lace pattern was easy enough to work on while watching TV or talking to people.
The blanket is so soft and snuggly, it's hard to give away! This is my first time using Malabrigo chunky and it's certainly every bit as warm, soft, and smooshy as Malabrigo worsted. One minor complaint about the yarn is that it felt to me like it had a lot of breaks and knots, certainly more than the worsted version. While this didn't cause major difficulty, it was a little irritating at points. Super snuggly:
I also found these cute tags on etsy, perfect for with knit gifts:
Back side of the tags on flickr.
And one final photo, the required "sort of like the pattern photo":
That is gorgeous and I can't believe how quickly you got it done. Even with chunky yarn. I am sure they will *love* it. I'm looking to start an afghan for my brother-in-law, was also looking at Malabrigo bulky + a simple lace pattern.
Posted by: Heidi A. | October 03, 2008 at 08:59 PM
It's absolutely stunning! It looks so soft and cozy. I don't think I could give it away.
How many skeins of yarn did it take? Now I'm jonesing to pick up some Malabrigo and knit my heart out...
Posted by: Jodi | October 04, 2008 at 08:06 AM
Wow! That is just gorgeous! I love how it looks like dappled light on water. I would die if I got that as a gift (in a good way) :o)
Posted by: Julia | October 04, 2008 at 01:44 PM
i love it too; it looks fab in blues . . . kinda like looking at leaves through water. what an excellent gift!
Posted by: anne | October 04, 2008 at 02:14 PM
Oh my goodness! What a thoughtful and lovely gift. Good for you!
I was giggling yesterday when I read it was a Mennonite and lesbian wedding. What a fun combination. I'd love to hear more of the details. How does their community accept same-sex couples, etc...
Posted by: Kelli | October 06, 2008 at 10:49 AM
Absolutely stunning. I hope you make one for yourself!
Posted by: Allison | October 21, 2008 at 10:15 PM
That's absolutely gorgeous. I'm sure they will love and cherish this blanket. I like the color you chose, very nice shades of blue. And wow,you completed this in 15 days!
Posted by: Marie | October 27, 2008 at 02:56 PM
That is gorgeous!! What a wonderful gift!
Posted by: Zonda | November 13, 2008 at 05:05 PM
You can send me one of your throws anytime - gorgeous!
Connie
Posted by: Connie | February 04, 2009 at 02:42 AM