Shaping Short Rows On A Vintage Hand Knit Sweater

I've been working each day on my vintage short sleeved sweater. I bought this pattern on Etsy. I love the cut of it and the simple, elegant design. Some knitters find doing stockinette stitch boring. Not me, I LOVE it. I think that  it really shows off the beauty of the yarn. This silky wool is something special. I'm so glad that I used it, and didn't leave it sitting in my drawer.

Before beginning a new knitting project,  I always write out my pattern by hand. After that, I  read through it carefully. I was a little worried about the short row shaping on this one. I've done a different type of short rows on the heels of my socks. They were also in the Old Hollywood Shawl Vest that I made years ago.  These are actually easier. There is no wrap and turn. You just pearl a certain number of stitches to the end, turn the work, slip the first stitch on the knit side, and then continue knitting. You skip four stitches each time. It's an interesting effect. I love the line. It creates a beautiful curve.  I can't wait to get started on the other side!

The woodpecker hasn't returned yet. This is the tree where he likes to pound his beak. He's so cute. I love watching him! There have been several sparrows at the birdbath each day. They really enjoy splashing around it in this hot weather. I watch them as I sit out on the porch, knitting. The cool shade of the trees is so relaxing.



































I bought a new tea at the grocery store this week. It's blackberry hibiscus, and is absolutely divine! It's amazing to me how adding honey to a pot of tea brings out all of the flavors of the herbs. This one is by Choice Organic Teas in Seattle, Washington. It's a delicious blend of hibiscus, rosehips, blackberry leaves, lemongrass, licorice root, spearmint, and blackberry flavor. I think I'm going to drink more herbal teas in the hot water, and less juice. This would be excellent chilled, too.