The idea of the Ravellenics (originally Ravelympics, which is a much better name, but outlawed by the Olympic committe - thanks guys) is that you challenge yourself and then craft away while the Olympic Games are on. Ravelry has some clever functionality which recognises your achievement(s) and awards medals and laurels.
This time I decided to make Illas Cíes by Anne Hanson which I'd fallen in love with, finally decided to make in a pale grey colour as per the one on the pattern, and bought some silvery silk/alpaca for the purpose at Fibre East.
This meant that I could enter the 'Synchronised Spinning' and 'Sweater Triathlon'. If I finished, I'd qualify for the 'Fleece to FO' laurel (even though it was processed fibre rather than raw fleece).
Here's my progress in pictures. Initially I was working for half the day and crafting for the other half. During the last few days it became obvious that I needed to put in as much time as I could if I was to cross the finish line.
The beautiful fibre spun from the fold like molten silver:
A few hours' spinning while the opening ceremony was going on and the first complete bobbin (of 6)
I did all the spinning (1200 yds based on the yardage requirement printed in the pattern) before casting on. That happened on the first Weds.
Back and front done, first sleeve starting. There's a lot of fabric in a sleeve! Almost as much knitting as a front or back.
I did flag on the penultimate day. I sat up late feeling very tired and achey. Not fun any more.
Victory! Trying on the finished garment near the start of the closing ceremony. It even fits! (A little tighter than I'd like, but I'm hoping it'll give a little after blocking and then wearing a bit.)
Still ends to weave in here, but I thought I could get away with that.
It's a lovely looking jumper. The lace panels look really splendid and the design is perfect for me. I really wish now I'd chosen a seamless design for this event though. Purling and seaming are both a bit counter-productive when time isn't on your side.
3 comments:
An excellent achievement - it looks splendid. And very you.
And you'll know for next time on pattern selection - not purling or sewing up is a huge timesaver.
(I did the Icon dress, but started too late and am still on the last stretch).
Thank you!
The icon dress looks amazing. Look forward to seeing that. A dress is an even bigger challenge than a jumper!
The cables on it will match your own plaits!
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