A hat, a vest and a kerfuffle walk into a bar

Well maybe not into a bar, but perhaps I should go have a drink after getting three projects finished 5 weeks into the new year.

First up is the Green Light Special hat that I made for Brendan. I added an extra repeat at the top before starting the crown decreases by trying to match up a section of the chart. A second added repeat may may been a good idea though. Next time it gets washed, I’ll block it a bit longer. Brendan loves it and put it on his head still damp, wore it all that day and any chance he gets. All in all, I’m very pleased with my first attempt at stranded colorwork.

Pattern: Red Light Special by Jared Flood
Yarn: Valley Yarns Superwash DK in 4 colors and for the lining, I used a bit of a small sock flat that I dyed that was laying in arms reach when I cast on.

Next up is the vest that I made for my dad. I really wanted to get this done for his birthday in November, and then maybe for Chanukah in December. That didn’t work out, but he seems to like it and it fits well. I really like the yarn and am very pleased that it’s available in Chunky (Not that I’m already using it or anything.) and just recently it became available in DK weight. As for broken rib stitch, I could go for a while without using it.

Pattern: The Professor Vest by Elizabeth Morrison
Yarn: Berroco Vintage

Lastly, two weeks ago I decided that I need a hand knit neck thing. I went to my stash and the first thing that jumped out was this hanspun silky cashmerino dyed by Fluff Fibers.
It’s gorgeous and soft and about about 250yds at 16wpi. I was inspired by a shawlette that I saw and set off to make my own version. My first attempt ended up looking like underpants or some weird loin cloth, so I frogged and started again.

A Kerfuffle is born! Named by my friend Jess at knit night last week, this kerfuffle grew and grew until I finished it this week at knit night. I’m pleased and plan on giving it a light blocking at some point. There are basic notes of what I did on my Ravelry project page and perhaps I’ll write it up properly in the future. There’s something very satisfying about watching fiber turn into yarn and then into a finished item.

If you’ll excuse my strange expressions in these pictures, you’ll see how I’ve been wearing it.