Trying Something New

This Brambles Beret is the latest item that I have knit with cabling and charts. I have used a very simple chart before when working a cabling pattern but always feel intimidated when I look at charts for lace. The chart for this beret was so easy to follow, I had no trouble at all. I like to mark on my pattern to make it easier to follow, so I copied it first, then wrote things  like “P” over the shaded square where purls were indicated. For me, it’s easier to follow the “P” than to re-interpret what the shaded block means. One less step for my brain as I knit along. The beret turned out just like the pattern and I am very happy with this hat. It will displayed at Knit Happens this week to advertise the class I am teaching in February. I’m planning to make another Brambles Beret in a plainer yarn, probably Debbie Bliss Cashmerino DK, in order to draw further attention to the beautiful flower that appears from the strategic cabling. This pattern is available through ravelry or knitty.com.

Yesterday, I was at Michael’s because they are having a half off yarn sale and I found Charisma by Loops & Threads (Michael’s brand.) It’s a thicker yarn, acrylic, and, oh, so soft. I’m making a scarf by casting on 120 stitches with a size 10 circular needle. Striping in brown, turquoise, and golden yellow looks vibrant and cozy. This scarf will be donated to Esperanca, one of the wonderful altruistic organizations for which my knitting guild, Cactus Needles Knitting Guild, knits. We also knit for Project Linus and this would be a great yarn for a small blanket.