Back in October I decided it was time to raid the stash for a Christmas knitting project. I had some beautiful Silk Twist by Rowan in my collection which has long since been discontinued. It’s a lovely variegated yarn of blues. Originally this yarn was going to become Amore from one of the Rowan magazines the only pattern I had for this yarn.

I did start knitting it but sadly it just wasn’t to be. Amore is a cable pattern interspersed with lace and although its easy to follow and would be a fabulous introduction to lace the colour variation was visually off putting.

Instead I did a bit of substituting for the pattern ‘Fayer’ in the book Cherished by Kim Hargreaves. It’s not the sort of pattern I would normally pick, theres no cabling or unusual detailing just a whole lot of plain and purl. It was a very simple knit which really showcases the yarn which is what I wanted.

I’m often surprised by these more simple garments because of their versatility, it’s so easy to wear and pair with other things. Also since the weather is a bit chill its also a very snuggly jumper due to the cowl neck.

Because of the substitution I did have to make a few modifications to this, my neckline is more of a roll neck because I didn’t increase the stitch count as it states in the pattern which would have created a funnel like cowl neck. The drape of Silk Twist just wouldn’t support a neckline of this type. I also didn’t knit the sleeves quite so long and they don’t have the bell shape as in the pattern.

For some reason I always find Rowan patterns have quite long sleeve lengths. If anything I prefer my sleeves to be slightly on the shorter side for both practicality and it helps to show off bracelets especially in the winter months! I already have a new project on the sticks and I’m re-knitting a jumper to a smaller size, frogging can be such sweet sorrow.