A change in knitting gauge - a change in perspective

It's amazing how dramatically a change in yarn can affect the look of a sweater.  Take a look at Petra by CocoKnits.  Originally designed for a bulky yarn, Petra has a gauge of 3 stitches per inch on a US size 11 needle.  I knit it in Noro Transitions several years ago, and it remains one of my favorite winter sweaters. 

Designer Julie Weisenberger has since reknit Petra in a much finer yarn for a completely different effect. The pattern is the same, but the finer yarn makes a very open fabric with a lot of drape -- a much more modern looking garment. 

The updated version is worked in two strands of Shibui fibers - Reed and Lunar would be gorgeous, but you could also do it in a strand of twig and Lunar or two strands of Lunar if you want to be truly decadent.  You could also work it with a single strand of Savannah, a new worsted weight linen silk blend.  In any of these choices, Petra becomes a chic year round sweater with an easy fit and a current look.  Here's a side by side of the two versions of Petra - They don't even look like the same sweater, do they!

This is the season to be knitting summer sweaters.  A lightweight fiber can turn a favorite winter garment into a cool and modern summer essential.  The Custom Fit sweaters would adapt nicely to this treatment, as would many of your tried and true favorites.  

I am so taken with this new version of Petra, that I'm knitting it again myself in beautiful Shibui yarn.  It's a great pattern with lots of clever construction elements, so we're offering a four-session class to see you through.  You'll learn a lot, and you'll have a chic sweater you'll love forever.  

I look forward to seeing you in the class or in the shop and around the table.  You are always welcome here.   

~Ellen