Arwen has been in progress since July. I have been knitting this sweater far too long and really should have made more headway. Garments like Arwen make me appreciate socks (here, on my feet on this chilly Florida morning).
Although one knits two, socks yield particular pleasure for me. The yarn can be luxurious without breaking the budget, colorful and loud without drawing too much attention when worn. This also speaks for the little knitting mishaps that may happen. They just don't show when worn so close to the ground. Socks are portable. I can sling a pair into my handbag and have a knit fix at will. They are quick, although I have had a pair in my WIP collection for a tad longer than need be, most of my knit socks are completed within thirty days of their conception.
Back to innocent Arwen. The yarn is a favorite of mine, DB Cashmerino Aran. I love the color as well. The appeal for me were the cable plackets and the sweater has no closures, the temptation is to slip it on and go. So why is this sweater kicking my behind? I find the construction awkward. Each sleeve is knit part of the front and one knits a large square for the back which then is patched in with a mattress stitch. I have since sewn up and picked apart the sleeves twice. I also forced myself to rip out half of the sleeve progress because I overshot the right front by about eight rows. As of this writing, I am back on track or else I am deluded or lulled into complacency thinking that I am moving forward. Crafty Arwen.
Here is the offending sleeve innocent in the dappled sunlight laying in wait for me to pick up the needles and then strike.
I have not told the sweater that I plan on changing the hood into a collar. I am biding my time and girding my defenses to prepare and strengthen for the dangerous maneuvers that lay ahead.