I have to be honest…sometimes I get so overhwelmed by choosing a project that it keeps me from starting anything. I end up knitting many swatches instead. Swatches are a way for me to “sketch” with my knitting, play with texture and color, and have fun without the pressure of making something perfect. Swatches are an important tool for making knitted pieces, measuring gauge, and sometimes they can little works of art, all their own! Here are some swatches from the design desk. Amanda knitted this swatch with Abode. We LOVE this yarn!
Recognize this pattern? It was used to make Lawson!
I joined the design team after the Fall/Winter ’13 collection was done, but I, too, am inspired by the new fall yarns. I have been daydreaming of quiet landscapes, muted colors, and tangled leaves to wrap up within…
Maybe one day my swatch will turn into something more, until then I will add it to my desk for inspiration : ) Hopefully your swatches will lead you towards your next great project.
Happy Knitting!
Emily
P.S. Swatches are especially important when measuring your gauge! Need a refresher on this?
Watch our how-to video:
Oh, Abode looks divine!!
It is!
Sorry, I meant to also comment on swatching too! I’m not really a fan, but I’ve learned the hard way so now, even if I don’t want to, I do it. In addition, I did not realize that in doing gauge, you need to wash it. When pattern is giving you a gauge is that a wash gauge or a pre-wash gauge? Does that part (washing it) really matter???
I find that steaming or washing your gauge sample really does make a difference, it allows the fabric to bloom, relax, and feel very nice : ) .
When we write patterns, the gauge given has been washed or steamed
Thanks! I’ll do this more often!
You’re welcome!
Happy Knitting!