third time is the charm

I wanted to create something super special with the yarn that I'd brought back from Tuscany this spring. I'd picked it for the color, to remind me of the warm hues of the roof tiles, stone walls, and painted doors. Fortuitously, it also matches the pansies that are flowering now (aw...)

The yarn is a fingering weight merino with a bouncy spin. I first envisioned a fitted tank with with a deep U neck, bordered by ribbing, to be worn with heavy white bangles and white linen trousers. The second idea was for a more bohemian tank, with no waist shaping and a square, smocked panel underneath a deep, square neck.

I swatched up all kinds of patterns on teeny needles (1's and 2's). And then my sister informed me that, by the way, you could still see through the fabric. Always good to get a reality check from non-knitters, who aren't so blinded by infatuation with the yarn and concept! My design-rich ideas were abandoned, and I started a design-as-you-go, top-down sweater on biggish needles. Mountain Man snapped a few photos of my progress last night.

I know, it's a funny photo. But I kind of liked the energy in it. And I know, it's borderline flashdancy. But knit to the hip, with 3/4 sleeves and rolled edges, I think it'll be just right.