Breaking Up is EASY to Do!

Project –Leaf Pullover
Bernat Pattern Book #530165 – All Alpaca
Yarn – Bernat Alpaca in 93203 Aqua
Blogger – Shandeh

So, now I’m at the part of the Alpaca Leaf Pullover where I split up my circle of knitting into 3 sections:  Sweater Body, Left Sleeve, Right Sleeve.  It’s what you have to do when knitting a sweater top-down.

The Leaf design was knit on a long circular needle(40 inches long).  I decided to use some cords from my interchangeable needles to make simple stitch holders for the sleeves.  I think the split apart section looks so pretty – like a beautiful deep teal flower. 

Now, I’m knitting a circle again….and knitting….and knitting.  Every stitch will be simple and fast for quite a while.   Kinda boring in contrast to the intricate leaf design, but mindless knitting acts as a balm to my soul.   I can lose myself in the heavenly soft feel of the alpaca yarn, and sink into the comfort of my knitting chair.  Many knitters have experienced “knitting euphoria”, ever since knitting began.

The Knitting Girl (La Couseuse) - William-Adolphe Bouguereau - 1869

Alpaca is one of my favorite fibers for knitting…..so soft and dreamy.  Have you ever seen a real alpaca?  They are so adorable!  Once a year, I go to a fiber festival to see some alpaca, as well as sheep, llama and rabbits.  I think that alpaca have such sweet eyes.

Awwwww…

And alpaca and llamas are so affectionate!

Their long coats of fiber are gently sheared once a year when the weather gets warm.  Then, they grow another coat of luxurious fiber to keep them warm during the colder season.    And we are lucky enough to get to wear their coats as well.

- Shandeh