Alpaca Gloves

 

I have only ever made one other pair of gloves, many years ago, so I enjoyed trying them again. And since I am on a major yarn diet this year (there are drawers, and glass jars of wool on every floor of the house!), I felt virtuous putting a bit of that stash to good use.

 

The alpaca yarn is incredibly soft and warm. The downside is that, being so soft with very little twist to the fibers, the stitch definition is not great, even after blocking, but it is easy to forgive this little flaw with such beautiful colours in this yarn line and with such a luxurious feel.

 

 

Pattern: Basic Glove Pattern

Source: The Knitter's Handy Book of Patterns by Ann Budd

Yarn: Garnstudio DROPS Alpaca

Colour: 7120

Needles: Circular and DPN's - 2.25 mm

 

I highly recommend Ann Budd's book of basic patterns. It's a really good investment for your knitting library. She gives instructions for hats, scarves, gloves, mittens, and sweaters in every size and stitch gauge. And provides suggestions on how to vary the basic patterns.

 

I was not totally satisfied with my handiwork in closing the gaps at the base of each finger but I look on it as a learning curve. The technique will improve with time.

 

First Finished Projects of 2016

 

 

Pattern: Korrigan

Yarn: Manos del Uruguay Alegria

Colour: A401

Needles: Circular - 3.25 mm

 

This is the first time I have used the Alegria yarn. Very soft but with good stitch definition. Seems like a good choice for baby wear.

 

 

Pattern: Barley

Yarn: Sweet Fiber Yarns Cashmerino Worsted

Colour: Winter

Needles: Circular - 5.0 mm and 4.0 mm

 

The garter stitch section of the hat is in the front only. The remainder is in stocking stitch. It is a lovely pattern and can be made into a beanie or a slouch hat, depending on what kind of fit you prefer.