January 2024
It's the beginning of a new year and a fresh start. Time to think of what adventures the upcoming year will bring. Maybe learn something new!
In 2024 I want to take a deep dive into painting. Since my sewing hobby has turned into my business, I miss that creative outlet that allows me to experiment and play. In 2024 I will be creating a series of paintings in various mediums in a variety techniques to find my style, have fun and learn something new.
As I dive into painting, I will also be sharing some simple creative things to do here on the Zelba + Mary Creates Blog. I hope to share meaningful projects for a variety of ages. Some to be completed alone and others to be shared with a friend or family. Stay tuned for a monthly update, or more, of creative fun.
We are starting off with a knitting project. It is a Chunky Knit Sweater pattern for Zelba + Mary 10” Friends but could work with other small friends you already have.
*Sign up for emails on our website for FUN STUFF only available to our email pals.
Zelba + Mary
Chunky Knit Sweater
Designed for Zelba + Mary 10" Friend
Materials:
Medium weight yarn
Tools:
US 5 Double Pointed Needles
US 7 Double Pointed Needles for BO
or...
Chunky weight yarn
Tools:
US 4 Double Pointed Needles
US 6 Double Pointed Needles for BO
Additional items:
Stitch markers
Large eye needle for weaving in ends and placing scrap yarn
Scrap yarn in opposite color is easier to see.
*Adjust needle size as needed. The sizes listed worked best for the noted weight of yarn during tests but depending on your stitch tightness you may need to adjust.
*Both yarn weights make equally lovely finished products. One is lighter for summer maybe and the other is extra cozy.
Required knitting skills...use of double pointed needles, increase stitches (KFB), placing stitches on hold and picking them up again.
Abbreviations
CO – Cast On
BO – Bind Off
DP – Double Pointed Knitting Needles *I prefer wood or bamboo
sts – Stitches
K – Knit
P – Purl
KFB – Knit Front & Back
EOR – End of Row
CO 32 sts using smaller DP needles based on yarn choice.
Ribbed Neck
Divide sts on three needles 12/8/12
Row 1 & 2: K2, P2 for 2 rows
Row 3: Knit a row, placing markers @ sts 6, 4, 12, 4, 6
Body
Row 4: K to first marker, KFB, slip marker, KFB, K to next marker, KFB, slip marker, KFB, K to EOR *this is increasing before & after each marker to create the raglan sleeve
Row 5: Knit a row
Repeat Rows 4 & 5 until sleeve increases are 12 sts between markers, end with knit round
K to first marker, BO between markers, or place on scrap yarn, K to next sleeve marker, BO between markers, or place on scrap yarn, K to EOR
*If you BO a sweet little cap sleeve is created. Placing sts on a scrap piece of yarn saves the sts for starting the long sleeves after the body is complete.
Knit in the round until body measures 2” from bottom of neck band.
K2 rows of K2, P2 ribbing
BO in stitches with larger DP needle
*BO with the larger needle creates a relaxed edge and easier to get on.
Sleeves
Pick up sts on hold + pick up 2 sts from under arm (14 sts)
Work in stockinette for 2” from base of neck for long sleeves
Add K1, P1 for 2 rows
BO using larger DP needle
Finishing
Weave in loose ends
Block sweater by soaking finished sweater in cool water, roll in a towel to remove excess water; do not wring or twist. Lay flat to dry, shape as needed. A sunny location works nicely.
Congratulations! You made a sweater!
Now try adding various cables, stripes, a turtleneck, change up sleeve length or overall length. So many options for your best friends expanding wardrobe.
Share your creation on Instagram with #zelbamarymakes
This pattern is for individual use only. Please do not sell pattern or items made from the pattern.
I hope you enjoy making a cozy sweater of your very own.
Share on Instagram #zelbamaryfriends
Comments