Yesterday I wrote about the sticker shock I experienced when I bought a muffin for $4.50 at a cafe in Ojai. That is nothing compared to what I paid for this yarn, (also from Ojai.) I won't even tell you what it cost. I signed up for a class to learn a new shoulder shaping technique that uses German short rows. I saw a photo of The Stockholm Sweater by Petite Knit online. I had to have that sweater. I just was mesmerized by the quality of the Isager yarn. It has a sheen. The design of the sweater is simple, pure, and classy. It's Danish. I was able to buy the English translation on Ravelry..
Like Carbeth, the yarn is held doubled for this pattern. The bad news about that is that you need a lot more yarn than if you were using a single strand. It really makes a beautiful fabric, though. A size XS takes eight skeins of yarn. I was given a 10% discount, since I signed up for the class. In California, that will take care of the sales tax.
I am still staying in budget. I normally only knit from my stash, or use gift cards that my brother gives me on my birthday and Christmas to buy yarn. The way I'm rationalizing this purchase is that I haven't spent much money on clothes. I wear what I have for years, and much of what I wear are items that I've knit. They last for decades. Shoes seem to last me a long time, too. I buy good quality clogs, boots, and sandals. I usually find them for half price at T.J. Maxx, and then I get them repaired when they need it.
Anyway, this yarn is made of mohair and silk, and it is absolutely dreamy. I am so enjoying working with it. It's really soft and luxurious. It reminds me of Belgian chocolate. It's made in Italy. I always am drawn to the Italian yarns. They are outstanding.
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As soon as I saw that beautiful yarn I sighed. Perfect colour... just the right amount of fluffiness and I bet it is beautifully light to wear once it's finished.
ReplyDeleteHi Cherie, Yes, it is very light and soft. The color reminds me of apricots. This design would look beautiful on you.
DeleteI'm guessing it was expensive, looking forward to seeing it finished.
ReplyDeleteHi Tania, It was. I normally only buy yarn on close out. This yarn will be a deduction on my business expenses for next year. I'm hoping to attract the right customers, and knit more of them. They are so feminine...
DeleteThe yarn is gorgeous and I don't blame you one bit for buying it. You will treasure the sweater for years. I also believe in buying quality and taking care of your things. I splurged on a pair of black Chanel ballet flats 10 years ago and have had 3 sets of heels and one half sole done over the years. Steve polishes our leather shoes religiously so they stay in good shape. Stay safe in this horrible storm!
ReplyDeleteHi Angela, I normally knit from my stash. I have so much yarn that other knitters have given me to use in my Etsy shop. Fortunately there was enough profit in the business account to use this as a sample. It's such a smashing sweater!
ReplyDeleteHi Anita, I'm the same way. Quality shoes are comfortable and long lasting. I have to protect mine from the summer heat. You just reminded me that I need to clean and polish my clogs.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful yarn. It looks soft also. I think everything has been going up in price lately. I was at a Panera Bread store and each pastry was almost $4. I think they were a dollar less the last time I was at one...which was a couple years ago. I decided I can do without! (Plus a dollar local donut can keep me just as happy.) Andrea
ReplyDeleteHi Andrea, I think you're right. I used to attend a knitting group at Panera. I would order a piece of French bread with butter. It was only .75, and tasted delicious! I got some weird looks, but it helped me stay on budget. That's a great idea about buying a donut! I'd forgotten about donuts. Now I am craving a glazed chocolate one...yum!
DeleteWhat a beautiful color! I think it is an investment Stephenie. You will enjoy wearing this sweater for a very long time.
ReplyDeleteI like the way you think, Nil. It will also be a great liner to wear under my heavier, scratchier, wool sweaters. I wouldn't be surprised if I wear this one for the rest of my life. The quality yarns really last, and continue to look nice. My knitting teacher told me that the sweaters she had made with cheaper yarn fell apart after a few years. When she was making good money, she bought the higher quality yarn, and she is still wearing those sweaters, twenty years later...
DeleteYarn is therapy, making something is goof for the soul. That is why you should buy the yarn you love and treat yourself. It is beautiful.
ReplyDeleteSpoken by a true knitter! It is heavenly.i'm really enjoying knitting with it.
ReplyDeleteThat's a very beautiful yarn; I can see why you bought it. Sometimes, all the savings we make day to day provide that little bit of scope for something special! $4.50 for a muffin, goodness I hope it was delicious;) Meg
ReplyDeleteHi Meg, It was very good. This yarn is divine. I just love knitting with it. I think I will get a lot of use out of the sweater. I have been wearing my hand knits every day, with this change in the weather.
DeleteI'm glad you were able to treat yourself to this special yarn. That is a very beautiful color!
ReplyDeleteThanks Bless. I love the color, too. It's really gorgeous! The yarn is so soft, and has s lovely halo.
ReplyDelete