Zena Redux

Oh, fiddledy-dee.  The post below was supposed to be saved as a draft. 

Oh, well.

A few details regarding deviations to the pattern:

• After several attempts, I gave up trying to make the collar by picking up the stitches on each side.  It just looked messy.  I had even knitted several inches of the back before deciding to rip back and simply re-knit the back of the collar as a separate flap and then seam the three parts together later.
• I did not use the larger needle on the sleeves, as directed, nor did I switch to a smaller needle for the last 4 inches.
• I knitted the sleeves with the knit side, rather than the purl side called for in the pattern.
• Also, I knitted the sleeves flat because I my circs weren't flexible enough to magic loop and I wasn't into DPNs.
• The sides and sleeves were joined with invisible seams using a sportweight yarn from the stash that had similar colors.

The result is a simpler Zena and simplicity works very well with the Habu yarn.  The fabric is very open and drapey, but the fuzziness of the mohair fills in the open spaces of the stitches quite nicely. 

Although I made a few changes and had battles with the wording, the pattern is fabulous and just a little brilliant given how the front and back are knit in one piece.  It was challenging, but rewarding.

And the sweater itself?  I've already worn it twice.  I do believe Zena is going to be a favorite.

Lastly, I wanted to acknowledge my shamelessly Nora-esque photos (not that they succeed, no one shows off the beauty of yarn and stitches quite like Nora).

Comments

[Lin]

I love the colours in the yarns, it is a beautiful Zena!

[smokey]

Stephy,

It's gorgeous!

Thanks so much for the detailed report on changes you made to the finishing/knitting of the Zena. I've been wondering how I'll approach some of those aspects of the pattern (e.g. I don't even own a sewing machine) and I like hearing how others have.

Did you make the sweater to the recommended size? I have no idea what size you are, but I've reworked the Neptune for a slightly smaller chest size because I think 44" would just look goofy on me. I'm curious to hear what others have done. I would love to see a modeled shot!

[Nora]

Thanks for the details - you did pretty much what I'm thinking of doing. The SKIF patterns are great [as a guide] but we need to personalise a wee bit... ;)

Great photos, btw. You captured the jumper and yarn perfectly.

[Jan]

It's just beautiful, and I want one. Are you able to wear it without a shell underneath, or is it too see-through?

Thanks,

Jan

[Michele]

wow, it's done! and it looks really pretty.

thanks for the details on what you changed. i ordered the pattern and started swatching for it but then the more i looked at the instructions the more i got cold feet. maybe time to reconsider.