Staff Project: PetiteKnit Poppy Tee in Scheepjes Stone Washed
It's time for a new PetiteKnit staff project! This time it is Black Sheep Lucy's turn to share her recently cast off knitted tee. It seems to be a popular choice right now amongst staff to head straight to the PetiteKnit patterns for knitting inspiration.
Name: Lucy
Pattern name: Poppy Tee by PetiteKnit
Yarn: Scheepjes Stone Washed
Shade number / name: 851 Chlorite Green (one of the new shades)
What size did you make? Large / 4th size
Like lots of people, I've really fallen for the PetiteKnit patterns recently. I'm not sure why they're so tempting, but it's something to do with simplicity of design, clear instructions and the lovely way they are photographed. My last was a Monday Sweater which I have worn a lot. As soon as I completed the Poppy Tee I started a PetiteKnit Anker’s Summer Shirt , they’re addictive!
For the Poppy Tee, I wanted something that would have a bit of challenge but also be a classic style; plus a top that I could wear pretty much year round. I chose this design because I was intrigued that it looks like it has set-in sleeves, but is made in one piece. This means I could keep trying it on (and did, lots) to get the length of the body and sleeves just right. I wanted it in a neutral shade that I can mix with long sleeve tops and trousers/skirts. Something really versatile.
Because the pattern asks for Sport Weight yarn it was obvious to select Scheepjes Stone Washed. It's a beautiful cotton based yarn with a fabulous halo, warm to wear but not too hot. I've crocheted with it previously and wanted to find a knitted project to show off the lovely marl effect.
How did you find the pattern? Did you make any adjustments?
I'm not sure how you'd describe the construction of the Poppy Tee but it was so interesting to make. I swatched in the round and unusually for me, got tension straight away. You start by making the back, knitted flat but shaped with a handful of german short rows - a very simple way of adding dimension. You then start to pick up a simple raglan and add the sleeves bit by bit.
The instructions are spot on throughout. I actually didn't change a thing which is unusual for me.
Any new techniques used?
Starting flat and shaping the back and part of the shoulders was new to me, eventually you join and continue in the round. It was simple to follow and clearly explained.
Like many PetiteKnit patterns this one calls for an Italian cast-off. I did this with two rows of double knitting first for the cuffs on the sleeves. For the bottom cast-off I completed four rows of double knitting first and this has come out great, it’s like a soft rolled hem, very stretchy and attractive.
Have you used this yarn before? How did you find it?
I’ve crocheted a wall hanging with a box of the little balls of Stone Washed and River Washed but never knitted with it. It’s a pretty yarn and quite a bit warmer and fluffier than you’d imagine.
Would you recommend the pattern to someone else? Would you make it again?
Yes, the finished item fits beautifully, it was fun to do and a little bit different. If I make this again I’d like to do long sleeves.
Describe the fit of your finished garment
Because this is a top town pattern I could try it on and get the length exactly how I like it (to the hip bones). The fit around the neck, shoulders and sleeves is better than I expected and I’m very pleased with it.
How do you plan to wear your new garment? How will you style it?
This shade of green is a neutral really, I’ll wear it with jeans, trousers, skirts and dresses. It’ll go with many colours, I’m looking forward to wearing it with teals, raspberries, reds, creams and beiges. It’ll look good over a long sleeve fitted tee or polo neck when the weather gets colder.
What do you plan to make next?
An Anker’s Summer Shirt in James C Brett It's Pure Cotton Dk, shade IC29 Deep Ocean. I’ve nearly completed the yoke already, it’s a very economical make.
