Basic, uncomplicated, quite utilitarian, and stretchy, the lowly garter stitch is oft derided. It's seen as inelegant, rustic, simple and primitive-not fancy, not flattering or exciting. But, as many of today's new patterns have proven, that way of thinking is far from the truth. Garter has a glamor all its own and many of us find its simplicity elegant and attractive.
Kim Hargreaves' Harmony has a certain flair in its simplicity of design, unique lace edging, and basic construction. The lace edge knit up quickly, and was easier than I first thought. The body, which could have become a long slog, has grown steadily and easily. Already the first front is past the armscye and the neckline is near. When I realize how short a time has past, I'm a little surprised and very relieved.
Rowan's Summer Tweed is one of my favorite yarns to wear and it's worth the struggle of knitting with a rope like yarn just to have the end product. Regular breaks are a good idea as hands and arms become tired and over worked quite quickly. Without a purl side row for a change, the struggle is constant and putting Harmany down, knitting something different is a must. Startitis is often niggling at me and, at times, it's all I can do to stay sweater monogamous.
I also find myself heading to the wheel more often as a break from knitting. There are too many projects calling out from my fiber stash-projects that would be so much fun to start. Staying Zen is taking all my strength at the moment. I must remain strong and constant.
It's growing quickly in spite of the breaks! Looks good!
Posted by: Nora | May 06, 2009 at 04:53 AM
That sweater is so worth it! Gorgeous. And, spinning is an awesome break from knitting, isn't it? Happy Wednesday, Margene!!!
Posted by: cindycindy | May 06, 2009 at 05:06 AM
That is going to be such a pretty sweater!
Posted by: Vicki | May 06, 2009 at 05:49 AM
Beautiful color! That will be stunning on you!!
Posted by: Anne | May 06, 2009 at 05:59 AM
I love the bumpy texture of garter stitch...especially in wee baby things. Perhaps I'll have to loof for more garter paterns.
Posted by: Kristin | May 06, 2009 at 06:41 AM
I just love garter stitch. It feels to me like the knitting equivalent of oatmeal for breakfast. That sweater's darn pretty.
Posted by: Stephanie | May 06, 2009 at 06:46 AM
It's going to be gorgeous! I have to admit, I love knitting garter stitch back and forth - very relaxing (at least if you're not using such a tough yarn).
Posted by: Chris | May 06, 2009 at 06:57 AM
Wow....it is going to be such a pretty sweater for you! I love knitting garter too. ;)
Posted by: Kim | May 06, 2009 at 07:06 AM
Pretty in pink!
Posted by: Jewel | May 06, 2009 at 08:01 AM
FLOGS for love of garter stitch = Ravelry group
i retreat to garter when i can't much think straight.
marie in florida
i love the color of that yarn
Posted by: marie in florida | May 06, 2009 at 08:13 AM
You're right about garter stitch being neglected. I think it has to do with the fact most of us started on garter and are reluctant to take the perceived backward step.
Posted by: AmyP | May 06, 2009 at 08:18 AM
You'll have the body done in no time at all!
Posted by: Cheryl S. | May 06, 2009 at 08:20 AM
That lace border looks lovely. Summer Tweed is indeed something special, with its own special feel and look (and smell as well). Lovely colour, too.
Posted by: Marijke | May 06, 2009 at 08:31 AM
Stay strong and constant! Especially on such a purty sweater!
Posted by: Anne B. | May 06, 2009 at 08:57 AM
Lovely, my wrists hurt a little when I think of the garter stitch, but lovely.
Posted by: joan | May 06, 2009 at 08:59 AM
Pretty, pretty - looks like it would work nicely for an appropriate handspun, as well.
Posted by: Joy | May 06, 2009 at 09:44 AM
That's it, Margene, you stay strong! Meanwhile, I've got three sweaters in progress! Eek!
Posted by: elizabeth | May 06, 2009 at 10:03 AM
That pink will be lovely on you. I've been spinning more lately, too. It feels good.
Posted by: Carole | May 06, 2009 at 10:05 AM
That's going to be great on you! I have to get back into spinning -- other focuses lately.
Posted by: Kathy | May 06, 2009 at 10:18 AM
Love the color, don't mind garter stitch. Whatcha spinning?
Posted by: Marcia | May 06, 2009 at 10:20 AM
I spent an hour spinning yesterday to get re-focused. It was an hour well spent. Your Harmony is a lovely pink.
Posted by: Manise | May 06, 2009 at 11:18 AM
So gorgeous! I do love garter stitch - it has seen quite a revival in recent years, thanks to people like Jared Flood.
Posted by: Ruth | May 06, 2009 at 11:19 AM
It will be a beautiful sweater. I don't like knitting with Summer Tweed either and have long had a project sitting half finished in a bin. Maybe a little at a time.
Posted by: Judy | May 06, 2009 at 12:16 PM
I admire the look of the lace and garter stitch next to each other. They play nicely together!
Posted by: beverly | May 06, 2009 at 12:28 PM
Zen. Simple, but not easy.
Posted by: claudia | May 06, 2009 at 01:55 PM