Lotus Blossom Tank KAL

Anyone still checking this blog?

2007-07-11T10:01:00.001-05:00

I have come to learn that the pattern is now available for FREE on the IK Knitting Daily website.

Can you all access this? You might have to register.

Lotus Blossom Tank.

Also, the Stash & Burn podcast talks about the LBT in their latest episode - Episode 20.

Cardigan Update

2007-05-09T23:05:00.000-05:00

I'm so excited! I just tried on my dad's cardigan after sewing on one sleeve, and it looks good! The yarn feels nice, too. All this hard work is finally going to pay off. Whew, what a relief! Since it took me two hours to do one sleeve, I'm saving the other sleeve to do for tomorrow. Then, it's on to the collar and button band. I don't know exactly what I'm doing for either... I can't decide whether or not I want a foldover collar. If I make it a shawl collar, which my husband advises against but I like, it wouldn't have to fold over. Decisions, decisions : ) I will definitely post pictures when I'm done!

Once again, my Interweave Knits has not arrived yet. It seems that everyone else in blogland gets theirs early, while I get my on or after the newstand date. Argh! The first time it happened, I contacted IK and was told that the first issue sometimes arrives late depending on the date I first subscribed. Well, the two issues I've received since then have come late compared to my fellow subcribers. Good thing I like this magazine! My grumbling is now done ; )

It is finally done!

2007-01-16T16:31:00.000-06:00

I finally finished up my LBT last week - I had all but abandoned it in the boring stockinette part, but picked it up right after Christmas and cranked it out. The recipient (my OtherMom) loved it - I hope it fits!

Belated pics

2006-11-27T17:59:00.000-06:00

I finished a few months ago and never got around to posting pics. I wore it once but I'm not thrilled with the fit-- I think I should have gone smaller, probably smaller needles would have done the trick. I also sewed the straps on lower to hide my bra straps, and keep it from flopping too low (the bamboo is floppiness incarnate). I'm considering ripping out the straps and making them wider.

LBT Done

2006-10-16T12:17:00.000-05:00

I've finally finished this tank and guess what? It doesn't fit. My bust is too big to fit in there properly even after I added an extra inch of stockinette, and my bra shows - no way to adjust it either. For now I will fold it up and tuck it away until I decide what to do with it.

Here are some pics of it. I guess it needs another round of blocking. I somehow don't get good results with blocking especially with stockinette stitch. It just rolls back up like I didn't do anything to it. It still has all of its ends on it needing to be weaved in, but since its not fitting right, I'm not going to waste anymore time on it.

Thanks for the help I've gotten on it.

Shaping the shoulders

2006-10-14T10:36:00.000-05:00

Hi guys,

This may have a simple solution, but I want to make sure I understand it. I'm at the shape the shoulders section and it says for row 2: (WS) Place a safety pin or removeable marker on (not through) working yarn and sl next st. Its this NOT THROUGH part that has me a little confused. How would I put the safety pin ON the working yarn??

Thanks in advance!

Lisa

LBT Done

2006-10-03T13:40:00.000-05:00

I joined this knitalong not too long ago (my first) and I'm proud to say I'm done! I cast on for this on Sept 20 and finished Oct 3. I had some doubts about how the top was turning out as I was knitting. I kept trying it on with the thought "I can fix this later if I have to". Blocking helped enormously.

Yarn: Knitpicks Merino Style in “Frost” on size 7 and 8 needles.

Modifications: I didn’t switch needle sizes until the decreases and I added a row of YO, K2Tog for the ribbon to go through. Otherwise, I followed the pattern to the letter. I also tried steam blocking this time instead of my usual wet blocking odyssey.

just starting!

2006-10-02T14:44:00.000-05:00

I'm just starting, Lisa. In fact, I just ordered my yarn today -- Rowan cotton glace in color Splendour. I thought the little cotton lace would be a nice break from all the thick woolen fall and holiday knitting I'm starting up.

Anyone else presently working on their LBT?

2006-09-25T12:57:00.000-05:00

I'm wondering if I am the only one basically just beginning? I see alot of tanks that are done but can't remember seeing any WIPs. Here is mine from a few days ago. I am now on row 11 of my second repeat of lace.

Anyone else still working on theirs? I'd love to see pics!

Question about row 12

2006-09-22T23:24:00.000-05:00

Hi there! I'm new to the KAL and relatively new to working lace. So I need a little help : )

In the lace pattern section in row 11, some yarn overs are created just before the purl stitch... and I'm wondering how to work them in row 12... its like a yarn over and then another wrap around the needle (I'm now not sure if I worked that yarn over before the purl correctly in row 11) ... do I work one yarn over and then let the wrap around fall off the needle? I'm not sure if I'm working this right! I hope I explained it effectively.

Thanks!

help a knitta out!

2006-09-19T13:08:00.000-05:00

Hi everybody. I'm new here, and this is actually my first officially-joined KAL. I am almost done with my tank, and I am going to run out of yarn. I have moved 3,000 miles from my LYS, and I called them and they have no more turquiose bamboo. In fact, when I told her my ball band number is 521 Turquiose Green, she told me that their 521 is Sky. Regardless, they couldn't help me. It seemed like a lot of people here might have extra, and I was wondering if anyone would let me buy some of their leftovers. I used the SWTC Bamboo, in Turquiose Green, dye lot number 04111925. I only need a little bit, of course.

Thanks!

2006-09-17T13:28:00.000-05:00

New to the KAL and I say hello to everyone!! I am hoping to swatch tonight and maybe knit a little bit of it tonight. I am using some Rowan Calmer that I had in my stash. Has anyone used it for this tank?

Hope everyone had a good weekend!

Another finished

2006-09-11T20:16:00.000-05:00

I am so excited to share that I finished my LBT (if anyone is still out there). I wore it today to a conference. As so many have said, the front is rolling and is also too low for my liking. If I were to do it again I would add a couple of inches there. Anyone find any way to block it or seam it to avoid the rolling?

I used Elann Sonata, I don't remember how many. Despite a 36 1/2" chest I decided to make the smallest size. I used 6's for the lace part and 5's for the top. Other than the front it fits me quite well and I'm pleased with it. It was a big thing for me to get the lace pattern right and I'm excited already to do another lace pattern.

2006-09-09T11:01:00.000-05:00

I went to see the Yarn Harlot last night in Salt Lake City and someone in the crowd was wearing a Lotus Blossom Tank in a heathery pink colour. Were you someone in this knitalong?

Stephanie Pearl-McPhee was wonderful BTW. There are pictures on my blog.

Finished mine too!

2006-09-05T20:19:00.000-05:00

My Lotus Blossom Tank is done TOO! I'm VERY excited as this is my first knitted item that's suitable for wearing in public. I knit it out of Wendy Supreme DK Luxury Cotton and size 4 needles. (And yes, I'm wearing a hot pink skirt with a lavender colored top. It's hot and my summer wardrobe is LIMITED.) I knit the smallest size with only 4 repeats as the pattern calls for. I'm only 4'11", so I figured that would be okay. As you can see, I pretty much messed up all over the first repeat, but I knew that if I frogged, I wouldn't want to start over, so I kept at it! :-)

You can view more information about it (and my next project on the needles, yikes!) on my new and improved blog, here. I hope everyone had a GREAT Labor Day Weekend.

LBT Progress

2006-08-31T15:26:00.000-05:00

Greetings! This is my first time posting, but I have been following (and attempting) the tank for a few weeks.

Here is a goofy progress shot. I am thrilled that I am finished with the lace part, but concerned about how loose and open it is. Hopefully blocking will improve the look of the lace and hopefully I won't be swimming in this thing!

I am using Elann Summer Sonata that I had in my stash, so it's been an incredibly cheap project. On my first attempt (before I screwed up on the lace) I made the second smallest size, as I have a 36 1/2" chest. But after reading the advice of all of you, the fact that I knit loose, and that I am using cotton, I decided to do the smallest size.

Anyway, thanks for all the tips so far, and more on my blog.

Me too!

2006-08-30T01:31:00.000-05:00

I've made several mistakes, and the finishing isn't perfect, but I still love how it looks and feels! I may knit another one next year. Yarn is called "Bamboo" (bamboo 70% cotton 30%), unknown brand, and I've used about 225 grams. More info and a photo of the mysterious ball band are posted on our joint blog.

The rolling front was better once I misted and pressed it.

Finally finished

2006-08-27T13:51:00.000-05:00

I love this tank. I knit mine 4 inches longer, like many of you did, and I just love how it turned out. I decided against using short rows in the bust area and it fits just fine.

More info is at my blog: The Giving Flower Thanks for a great KAL and some gorgeous tanks.

Soon to Blossom....

2006-08-21T23:00:00.000-05:00

I wish I found this KAL earlier! I'm almost done, but I've had so many questions to get here.... I could have used your help. But now here I am, done with the shoulder parts, ready to sew them on -- Well, if I can figure out what the best way is. Could anyone post the close-up of the part where the shoulder meets the front? Please?

My front rolls too. I hope it will be better when it's blocked, but I would like to hear from the other knitters how you fixed this.

From the pace I knit, it won't be finished before the weekend -- I can only knit two hours a day, at most.
I will come back with a finished photo!

Tamami (one of the Designated Knitters)

Finis !

2006-08-21T00:45:00.000-05:00

I have finished it and blocked it. I have also already worn it out twice. I am trying to get some wear out of it before the weather changes. However, I do still need to fix the rolling in the front. (I swear, it is pretty bad, even though you can see it at all in this pic.) I love the feel of the bamboo after it is washed. I am happy with the modifications that I made: an extra 10st up from the size small and the fifth lace repeat based on some of the others in the KAL. Thanks for your help. Even those that don't realized they helped, I was able to learn from your posts and avoid some problems areas ahead of time. You can read more and see more pics at my blog.

I'm new, a little late and need help

2006-08-20T01:09:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone!
I'm new to this KAL and I'm knitting my tank a bit late, as it's starting to get a bit too cool to wear it, but nonetheless, I'm forging ahead.
I'm so impressed with everyone's work, and after starting my tank in the second size and ripping it all out after the second pattern repeat because it was a tent, I'm glad to have found others with similar problems.

I'm now ready to start the armholes and I've read a lot of people have put short row in to give a bit of room in the front. I'm knitting the smallest size and I'm a size 36", so I think I should be knitting some short rows too.
Can anyone tell me how they knit the short rows??? I'm new to short rows so I don't really know what to do.
Thanks so much.
Kimberly- The Giving Flower

half finished

2006-08-16T23:58:00.000-05:00

Hi all, finally signed up. I've been watching the blog and seeing everyone else's turn out so well.

I've been madly knitting but stopped to finish up some other ufos on my plate. I'm a bit more than half way - having finished the 4 repeats of the lotus lace (alien heads), and I'm in the stockinette now. This was taken without my flash. The color is actually a light blue.

This next one is with my flash - so you can see the color closer...Also hiding in the upper right corner are some really cute new stitch markers I found on ETSY.com (Search for "Sheep stitch markers" and you'll just fall in love with them.

I'm using Madil Eden (Cascade's Bamboo) and making the smallest size. A local store near me had knit it in the off-white color and let me try it on. Even though I am between the smallest and next smallest size, it fit me perfectly (expanded to fit!). I hope mine turns out just as well. I do plan to add about a half inch in the stockinette part, so that part will extend over the bottom of my bra. The bamboo has more drape than cotton, or the SWTC bamboo, and it hasn't split much, of course, I knit sl-o-o-o-wly through the lace part, so I was careful not to split it. Now, I hope I can knit it quick enough to catch the end of summer.

Me too, me too!

2006-08-16T14:18:00.000-05:00

Just got mine hot off the ironing board, and I am very pleased with it! Mind you I haven't tried washing it yet, just given in a bit of a steam with the iron.

The details: 2 and a bit balls of SWTC Bamboo in sahara - love the way you get the "moire" effect with the colours. (You are supposed to only need 2 for my size so I am lucky that I was originally going to make it bigger and bought the 3rd one)
Size: small.
Needles: US size 6 and 5 Denise interchangeables.
Modifications: None really, except a half inch extra of st st before the armhole shaping.

I am glad I took notice of advice here about negative ease. It would have been huge on me if I had gone for the size that I thought should have fit.

Thank you everyone on the knitalong for all the helpful hints and encouragement. I will keep popping back to see how everyone is doing.

i finished it~~~

2006-08-15T00:12:00.000-05:00

hey guys,
i finished my LBT this weekend! i'm really excited with how it came out. :3

yarn: rowan cotton glace in pier
needles: size 5 & 6 plymouth bamboo circulars
size: XS(?!) it's an imaginary size, i cast on 170 st instead of the 200 for the smallest size

like many of you have done, i added an inch of stockinette to the torso before the decreases. on the last pattern repeat, i only did half the pattern for just a little less length than a full one would offer, so there are 3.5 repeats here. i had never worked with cotton glace before, but i looooooove it now. for a mercerized cotton, it's really not as shiny as you think a mercerized cotton would be. i liked what ocdeviant did with her armholes, so i also used crochet (1 row HDC and SC) around the armholes and neckband. i was really worried about the neckband rolling and flopping around everywhere pre-blocking, but i steamblocked the crap out of it and it seems to be holding up rather well. i have to say, this is one of my favorite knits i've done so far!

more photos can be found on my flickr account (these two are from flickr anyway):
http://www.flickr.com/photos/honeypoo

thank you all for your help in my previous posts to this blog! *bow*

Complete but still needs blocking

2006-08-14T19:47:00.000-05:00

Here is my finished LBT. This is the most complicated knit that I have completed. I felt confident doing it, but as opposed to most of my other knits, I really had to pay close attention, especially during the lace sections. I still need to block the tank (I lightly steam blocked it pre-finishing) and take some pics with me in it.

I used the SWTC Bamboo in the pattern color. This is quite rare for me since I usually both knit with and wear oranges, reds, and browns. However, I liked the color and wanted to switch up my wardrobe a bit.
One Question: The front doesn't roll quite as much when it is on, but it still has a rolling problem. I think I bound off too loosely. Does anyone have any suggestions on ways to keep it from rolling?

Lace part done

2006-08-14T15:46:00.000-05:00

I have some progress to report at last! Here is a close up to show the colours - it's SWTC Bamboo Sahara. it could do with a good blocking to show the stitches better.

I have now completed up to the armhole shaping. I kept with the four repeats as I am quite short-torsoed, and I did 3.5 inches of stocking stitch before dividing.

Here is the whole thing after about an inch and a half of st st.

Not far to go - should have it done in a couple of days, if I don't have too many interruptions.

Done

2006-08-13T20:54:00.000-05:00

Well, it's done. The seam on the left is a bit crooked, but the top isn't actually uneven -- I was tugging on it without a mirror before my husband took the picture. I like the way the colors pooled. My only complaint is that the neck won't stop rolling because my shoulders are too narrow. But there's nothing I can do about that.

Details: SWTC Bamboo in Serendipity, a little over 2 skeins. 5 lace repeats, armholes and neckline worked by picking up 1 stitch every 2 stitches, not every 1 stitch. The effect is kind of nice.

Not my usual color choice, but I'll wear it -- with another shirt under it. There's way too much midsection peeking through the lace!

Advice for YO between knit and purl stitches?

2006-08-11T09:33:00.000-05:00

I have developed my own method for doing this as I can't find a tutorial... any advice? I've been moving the yarn to the side appropriate for the following stitch (knit or purl,) and then wrapping it around the needle completely.

It Fits!

2006-08-10T23:54:00.000-05:00

The Facts: LBT in smallest size, 5 lace repeats, an extra couple inches in stockinette, armhole finishing is a row of single crochet and then a row of backward (crab stitch) crochet, no finishing around the neck. I used about 2.5 balls of SWTC bamboo.

Overall, I really liked this pattern (once I made a chart for the lace). My only real trouble was with the short-rows... did one side correctly and one incorrectly (with resulting holes), as I wasn't sure what I was going for... anyhow, fixed it up and it looks fine.

Finally, I love the fit and will definitely wear it a lot. Also, I really appreciate all the support and encouragement from the kal... thanks to you all I can wear my LBT this summer!

Finished

2006-08-08T14:12:00.000-05:00

I actually finished a little while back but keep forgetting to post about it here. I wore it to work today so I'd remember. Geez. My memory.

The Lotus Blossum has finished. I'm quite thrilled with how it turned out. A note to anyone using the Southwest Trading Company Bamboo in this color. This is NOT colorfast yarn. When I came back upstairs to dry it out I noticed all the water was pink. I think there may have been tears involved had I made that mistake of soaking this with anything else. I'm not sure if it will handle a soak better next time but I'll write about it when I find out.

I added about three inches to the stockinette section to give extra length. I love it now and am really happy I decided to make that change. Hope everyone is having fun making theirs.

Progress and Questions

2006-08-07T20:11:00.000-05:00

I started the fourth round of the lace. Like many others, I am between sizes. I added ten more stitches to the smallest size and reworked the pattern a bit based on this. By my calculations it should give the finished tank a bust of between 35.25 to 35.5. Has anyone else tried this and did it work out? (I scanned the past entries and didn't see this solution)
Also, I have a long torso and want to do a fifth round of the lace like I have seen others do. However, I am worried that I may run out of yarn. I am working with the South West Trading Company Bamboo. I bought three skeins, so I hope I will have enough to do an extra repeat. I am five rows into my fourth lace round and am getting close to finishing my first skein of yarn. Did anyone knit the 39" size with this yarn? If so, how much yarn did you have left over?
Overall, I am pleased with how it is turning out and love how light the yarn is after knitting with cotton all summer.

Finally got started... again

2006-08-07T17:58:00.000-05:00

After having to stop to get some other things finished I am finally back on my LBT. After taking everything that everyone else has said and done into account I decided to frog what I had done and start again. I have decided to go down to the small size and see how it goes. I have done one lace repeat and the plain rows of the second. I am so looking forward to the evening when I can sit down in front of the TV and get some more done.

I hope I get it done while the weather is still nice enough to wear it this year.

Getting Started

2006-07-31T18:12:00.000-05:00

It's been great seeing everyone's completed and "in process" tanks. Here's my progress so far....I'm in the middle of the second repeat.

I'm using Brown Sheep Cotton Fleece. This is my first garment and have really been enjoying this pattern. Now if I could just have more time to work on it!!

question on negative ease

2006-07-31T01:46:00.000-05:00

i'm about done with the lotus pattern repeats and am going to start the stockinette portion soon. i'm knitting an imaginary XS size - i cast on 170 st instead of 200 because 200 was coming out too big. i'm still using size 5 needles, though.

what's interesting is that my gauge matches the 22 st = 4" in St st as written in the pattern. so with some math done, i found that if i don't decrease where the pattern instructs me to, the stockinette portion will be about 31 inches around. i have a 32 in bust, so that would result in 1 inch of negative ease. i want this top to be fitted and fairly body-hugging and i hope the 1 inch of negative ease will help me achieve that.

have/are any of you gone with negative ease? if so, how much?

New ... and done!

2006-07-28T12:55:00.000-05:00

Although I just officially joined the KAL, I finished my lotus blossom tank on Tuesday. I've been reading all your posts as I knitted and enjoyed the useful tips and great pictures!

I had originally started on the smallest size in June, but after completing 3 lace repeats I tried it on to find that it was huge (my swatching had led me to use a US 6 Denise for the main needle). I wanted it to be fairly body hugging, and it was more like a tent.

So, I swatched some more, frogged the whole thing, and started over on July 3rd with a bamboo US 4 for my main needle. I did 5 repeats of the lace and added an inch or so to the stockinette portion of the bodice.

I made two big errors that I discovered late enough that I decided not to fix them (I'm a fairly new knitter and, apparently, not a perfectionist type!). I accidentally increased 1 stitch early on in the 7.5" of stockinette on the upper part of the back -- so I K2tog during the first shoulder shaping row when I discovered it. Also, I had never done short row shaping before and didn't know I needed to "hide" the wraps (I neglected to look in the back of the magazine -- like an idiot!), so my left shoulder shaping is a little wonky looking. Additionally, I had to get a third ball of the bamboo yarn that was from a somewhat different looking dye lot, but I joined it at the shoulders on both sides, and it's not too annoying.

I am blocking the tank now (photo is pre-blocked), and will be wearing it for real soon!

Oh, frustration...

2006-07-28T10:18:00.000-05:00

I am giving up for the time being on Lotus Blossom Tank. I've tried to knit this thing several times. First, I twisted my stitches while joining in the round. On subsequent attempts, I screwed up the lace pattern and could not figure out where I had goofed. So it is currently sitting there in the corner of my office, lonely, needing love. I will re-start it again sometime in the future. I like the pattern. It's pretty. I just need a break.

Work in Progress shot

2006-07-27T14:25:00.000-05:00

Here is the picture also appearing on my blog, the WIP, about 2 cm till short rows shot of my LBT. I even love the pooling. See how it's large splotches, then it turns into thin stripes at the top? Way cool. The only thing: Why did I pick pastels?
Stay tuned for pictures of Confused Goth in Hippie Pastel Lace Top!

Finally Started

2006-07-26T08:52:00.000-05:00

I finally started my top, and so far, I have 1 1/2 repeats done. I love the yarn I chose, and the color is growing on me. Come on over to my place, and see the picture.

http://ladybugssitnknit.blogspot.com/

newbie to this KAL says hello

2006-07-19T12:58:00.000-05:00

hey guys, i just joined this KAL! i'm finding it very helpful, so thank you for all the cool entries and tips. i'm going to be extending the stockinette section by an inch or two by the time i get there, as many of you have suggested.

here's a photo of my progress thus far:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/honeypoo/193115548/

i'm using rowan cotton glace - seems to be working well so far.
i'm making the smallest size (33.75 in).

Finished!

2006-07-10T14:27:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone,

I am finally finished with my LBT, and I can not believe how relieved I am to be done with the whole thing. If it wasn't for this KAL, I know I would have chucked the project and added it to my many UFOs. Anyway, from my posts last months, I dropped a bunch of stitches somewhere and couldn't figure out where they were. As a result, I started the whole thing again...did the same thing...then did the same thing again. What happened? I figured out that my yarn was too slippery for my really slippery bamboo needles and my stitches kept falling off without my noticing. (I was using Frog Tree silk/cotton, and it was telling me that it did not want to be the Lotus Blossom Tank.) I put the whole thing away for a week or two, and then started over with Elann.com's Sonata 100% cotton. Much better.

Yarn: Elann.com Sonata—4 balls
Needles: Many—Webs bamboo circulars size 6, Denise size 5, Susan Bates aluminum circulars size 4, crochet hook size F for the armhole finishing.
Modifications: 3 Lotus Blossom repeats instead of 4, but added an extra few inches of stocking stitch in the body. I didn’t care for the 4 rows of garter at the top of the lace pattern, so I knit only two rows of the garter stitch instead. I continued the decrease pattern at the top of the front for two extra repeats (8 rows total) to add length in the chest area. I did not want the garter stitch borders around the sleeves and neck, so I used a modified crochet shell stitch on the sleeves, and then left the neck band area plain for no other reason than I liked the clean line of it.
Overall thoughts: I like the finished product, but I wasn’t bowled over by the pattern itself. I felt like I had to make way too many modifications to keep it from being a shapeless blob. But all of the changes were well worth the extra work and frustration. I’m really glad I joined this KAL because reading the other posts and seeing you all’s finished objects was very inspiring.

My first day wearing my LBT

2006-07-10T12:50:00.000-05:00

I got my friend at work to take a pic of me wearing my LBT today in all it's finished & blocked glory. Indoor lighting and old work digi cams leave much to be desired, but it'll do. I've got a black ON layering tank underneath to make it work appropriate as well as a black blazer since the SF Bay Area fog makes the mornings very cool. I'm happy with the way it turned out though I will need one of those demi-type bras so I don't keep fiddling w/the straps all the time as they want to peek out ever so slightly right were the seams joining the front to the shoulders are.

I'm glad I joined this KAL and it helped keep me motivated to finish this project and all your tips and suggestions helped me immeasureably.

Thank you all and knit on!

edited to add: original finished post w/yarn specs can be found here.

Blocking Question

2006-07-09T13:14:00.000-05:00

I'm on the third repeat of the lace pattern, and it's already getting pretty darn obvious that this top will need some heavy-duty blocking if the lotus blossoms/alien heads are going to look like anything other than a variegated spaghetti mess. What did other people do? Does anyone have advice about blocking lace knit in the round?
This is my first lace piece that didn't start out flat, so I'm not sure what to do.

Pret a porter!

2006-07-09T12:28:00.000-05:00

IK Lotus Blossom - it's done!
Originally uploaded by Sophie_vf.

It's ready to wear!

I am so glad I added the extra stockinette. I really didn't need the fifth lace repeat, as I needed more bra coverage than overall length. So, as suggested by Jacqui, and considering her warning that the front tends to pull up, I knit an extra inch of stockinette plus 12 short rows for the bust shaping. This worked out perfectly!

Like others, I absolutely hated picking up the armhole edging since it's such a small round to work ont, but at least it was over with quickly. It didn't roll too badly, and a light pressing with steam helped it stay in place. I also steam blocked the lace a bit so it would be more open. Not that I really want to show extra skin, but it draped more nicely and didn't bunch.

I'm really happy with the result and enjoyed knitting it. Thanks to everyone here for tips, inspiring pics, and encouragement!

(crossposted to my own blog)

Help me trust my swatch

2006-07-09T01:55:00.000-05:00

I've never actually swatched something. But after frogging this thing 3 times after getting giganto results, I had to. The swatch tells me that I have 5 stitches per inch on the smaller needles (size 5). My bust is a 39. So by my calculations, that means I need to cast on 195 stitches, right? Is it possible to do the lace in that number? I also feel like the yarn has a lot of give, and keep reading about it stretching... so maybe 190 would be better? I'm just really in disbelief about the number.

Finished and Fresh from the Dryer!

2006-07-08T20:44:00.000-05:00

I finished! And I even wore it to work on Wednesday (with some discreet pinning of the appropriate bra). I had some problems with the blocking: I wanted to tighten up the back, the armholes, and the curled-outward neckline. No luck: I got it wet and it grew by 10 inches in width and about a foot in length. It went into the dryer and was fried back to it's pre-wash size.
To all you bamboo users freaking out about your sizing after reading this: Relax: I knit this with Filatura Di Crosa Zara Merino in green and grey (ran out of green) so I shall be alone in my blocking issues. Overall, I had a great time with this pattern, and I look forward to wearing this tank, and seeing all of your finished photos! Thanks for the inspiration, company, support, and advice!
Kel

Jackie F has some mad skillz....

2006-07-05T05:41:00.000-05:00

Did you notice Jackie sneaked in a picture of her and her little one? I am not letting her get away with it! LOL. Adult LBT and Mini LBT together!

Scroll down about 4 posts.

Jackie - I hope you don't mind me calling you out. You two look soooo cute! I poked around your blog a little and did I read you were going to make a mini Green Gable? You are so very talented!

Getting ready to begin

2006-07-04T10:47:00.000-05:00

Hey Everyone! I'm Shell. I joined a little while ago but am just getting started on this. Here's my dilemma. I initially selected SWTC Oasis in Purplexed for the tank, but I am starting to think that the variegation may be too much. Here's the swatch I finished last night:

I made an error somewhere along the way, but I am just not thrilled with how the pattern looks. So here is my second thought, Brown Sheep Cotton Fleece in Lovely Lavender, swatched this morning:

The cotton fleece has the same ballband gauge as the Oasis, but it swatched up a little larger and a little firmer.

I'm leaning towards the cotton fleece, but would love some feedback.

Thanks!
Shell

Issues with Lace.

2006-07-03T17:20:00.000-05:00

Hello I have been knitting for about a year now. I would consider myself a pretty good knitter with basic projects. I have knit 4 pull over sweaters this year alone with socks and a blanket! However, this is my first attempt at lace and I'm a bit confused by the directions.

When you do the S2kp2, does that mean that you slip 2 stitches onto your right needle, knit one, and lift it over the slipped stitches and leave all 3 on there? Or do you drop off the 2 slipped stitches and are left with one? Are you folks having problems keeping them in that slipped order as you go on? Mine keep slipping out of order.

Another question about this pattern, since I've never worked with lace, and this is a kniting in the round pattern, do you work the yo's just like any other stitch or do you drop them off? Somehow I ended up with way to many stitches :(

Thanks for all your advice, it is GREATLY appreciated!!

Finished! No pics yet, though.

2006-07-03T11:34:00.000-05:00

We've misplaced our digicam. Oops! Anyway, LBT's all finished & making her debut today (3 compliments so far! Woohoo!). One thing, though--I wonder if anyone else has this issue? Disclaimer: I am somewhat petite, with a short torso and narrow shoulders. The sleeve caps of the LBT actually extend a bit past the proper shoulder line (they're not flying out past my shoulders, but they sort of flutter a bit above my shoulder), and in back, the armholds are curling under a bit. I think both of these issues are because of my short/narrow shoulders and lack of shaping in the back armscye.

Still, very pretty and well-fitting, so I'm pleased overall.

Helen

Vacation knitting

2006-07-03T00:44:00.000-05:00

Hi -- I've been working on LBT and now have 5 lace repeats + 5" of ss in the round, and am ready to bo for arms. I ordered a 3rd ball from Yarn Market and it is the same dye lot, so I have plenty and feel much better. I'm wondering, after washing/during blocking how much you all are pinning out the lace, or letting it block more "naturally"? Also, has anyone ironed this yarn, and if so at what setting (you see I have fantasies of finishing soon!).

Mini Lotus Blossom Tank pics

2006-07-02T08:57:00.000-05:00

Here's Marie wearing her mini Lotus Blossom Tank! These pics were taken just after she got up, so please excuse the bright green shorts. I might have to make the head opening a little bit bigger since it was difficult to get over her head; I'm thinking at the back or the left front shoulder seam...

Edited 7/4/06: 1 picture added. Also, I took out part of one seam and added braided ties so that the tank fits over her head.

Preview of a mini LBT

2006-07-01T22:40:00.000-05:00

Here's a shot of the finished mini Lotus Blossom Tank for my 18-month-old daughter. Since she's in bed for the night, I'll have to wait until tomorrow to take pictures with her wearing it. I can't wait! Before doing the edging, I tried it on her to see if it fit. It did! I was worried that the lace would be too high, or that the shaping at the neckline would be off or too high. But, thanks to the dependability of math, it turned out OK. Oh yeah, how about that one patch of brown?! I ran out of yarn right before finishing. Ack! Now it has an abtract art appeal... :)

Voila, the Lotus Blossom Tank

2006-06-29T23:53:00.000-05:00

Done, done, done!! These pics were taken at Stitch 'n Bitch tonight. Currently, I'm finishing up a mini version of the tank for my 17-month-old daughter with leftover yarn. Hopefully, I'll have enough yarn to finish the straps. I might have to use some taupe Patons Grace to do the edging. We'll see - I will be sure to post pics of her wearing her tank when it's finished! :)

Put a fork in me!

2006-06-29T18:46:00.000-05:00

I am done! Well, I still need to wash & block this bugger and get DH to take a pic of me modelling (hah!) this thing, but the knitting is done.

Well, I hope I'm done. I did not enjoy picking up and knitting the finishings on the armholes and neckline. I simply had the worst time w/the SWTC Bamboo at this point. I hope the most egregious parts block out. If not, I'll have to go back and re-do them. Gah!

In any case, a quick recap of my tank - I knitted the size 39'' cause I measure 40." I got stitch gauge on size 7 (Boyes interchangeables) needles, but my row gauge was bigger (7.25 rows/in vs 9 rows/in stated in the pattern) in St st. Because of my larger row gauge, I only added 1.5" to the St st portion before splitting for the armholes and felt no need to add a 5th repeat of the alien heads.

Quick thoughts on this project - This was a fun pattern to knit. However, my enjoyment was tempered by the yarn itself. While I like the drape and feel of it, it still got tiring for my hands despite having more give than a 100% mercerized cotton yarn. It didn't bother me while I was doing the lace portion, but the knitting the St st portion got wearying. Oh, and yeah, splitty as heck. All of which is probably why I started losing steam and got really annoyed doing the armhole and neck finishing. I really hope the finish blocks out okay, 'cause I really don't want to go back and re-do them.

Now what do I do w/the 2 whole leftover skeins + the remainder of the 3rd?

Racing to the finish line!

2006-06-29T12:48:00.000-05:00

I'm soooo close. I finished the straps yesterday & lightly ironed the whole tank in preparation for seaming. I noticed that the front edge was curling pretty badly, despite agressive ironing attempts. . . I went ahead and seamed the straps, and then hunted around for my IK (I'd been working from a photocopy with grainy pics) to check out the photo, wondering where I'd gone wrong. A ha! A glance at the photos sent me back to my directions. . . right before the front BO, the directions say something to the effect of "knit three rows, BO knitwise." Well, I knitted those three rows in STOCKINETTE, since the directions didn't specifically say to knit three rows in GARTER stitch. Gah!

Fortunately, it was an easy fix--unseam a bit at each strap edge, pull out the BO, rip two rows, knit two rows, BO knitwise. Phew!

Now I'm picking up armhole stitches. I'll keep you posted--so far, it fits beautifully! 3-4" negative ease. I did lengthen the stockinette portions on both the front & back, mainly because my swatch shrunk lengthwise when I washed it. . .

Helen

Mindless Knitting Specialist: First Lace Attempt

2006-06-29T12:37:00.000-05:00

Hello! I just ordered my yarn, and I'm anxious to start the Lotus Tank. Though I've been knitting for four years, I've stuck with the basics, so I'm a bit nervous about the lace. Since I'm in a knitting rut, I figured I should challenge myself a bit more. So here I am! What do you think? Is this tank doable for a lace novice?

Yardage question

2006-06-28T18:32:00.000-05:00

I've been reading everybody's posts about increasing the number of lace pattern repeats and/or extending the length of the stockinette section, and will likely do the same. My question to all of you is: were you able to increase the length of the tank with the amount of yarn originally called for in the pattern, or was more yarn needed? If I am going to need more yarn, I want to make sure to get it before the store runs out of my color.

Haven't had a chance to get back to the tank yet, since I posted earlier about my missing stitch, but appreciated the supportive comments and suggestions, and will return to knitting shortly. Thanks!

Red Lotus

2006-06-28T03:03:00.000-05:00

I decided on red for my Lotus Blossom because I love the colour, and I already had one random ball I bought the first time i came across it. I got 2 more from the same store (18 months later) and they are, predictably, different dye lots, but that appears to make no discernible difference at all, fortunately!

I did 6 repeats of the lace, but haven't lengthened the base part of the stocking stitch element - may prove to be rash,

now I read Jackie F's comments from yesterday.

this pic is a bit shakey because I was on a train - and as usual with lace it looks like boiled ass (see Rabbitch's descriptions of her lace...). I've finished the front, and am almost at the short rows for the back. Which is good, because I want to wear it for Woolfest on Saturday (may be blocking it the night before in the B&B, methinks!) NB the colour above is the best I could get even with white balance, but it is really deeper - more like this.

Lotus Blossom Tank - front finished

2006-06-27T21:26:00.000-05:00

Lotus Blossom Tank - front finished
Originally uploaded by Sophie_vf.

I chucked the tank I started using the SWTC Intensity, because I decided I'd rather use the variegated yarn for Heatwave. So here's my second try. After ordering some SWTC in cobalt, I cast on again, and have finally gotten to finishing the front.

I don't LOVE knitting with bamboo, because it feel so stiff to me, but I do really like the fabric it produces. Perhaps because it's so drapey, the garment seems to come out really big even if you get gauge on the swatch, so I'm knitting the smallest size, which seems absurdly small compared to my actual bust size. I did add some short rows to the front to make sure it was long enough that I don't flash people through the lace section. Otherwise, I'm continuing on and hoping for the best.

FYI: beware, the straps will pull up the front

2006-06-27T15:35:00.000-05:00

My Lotus Blossom Tank is drying! I have a picture and details on my blog. I'll post a picture after it's dry and I'm wearing it...

While I'm here, I thought I'd mention something important for those who haven't completed the stockinette portion of the tank [BTW, this will make sense when reading, but you might not think of it while knitting]:

You might want to knit the stockinette section an inch longer. Most people are doing this anyway. But, even after customizing yours to make it long enough to cover the bust, you might want to add yet another inch. Why? The straps will pull up the front an inch after seaming. At least, that is to say, they did on mine. Thankfully, my tank still covers the bust, but with very little material to spare. This was an unexpected result considering I had already made my stockinette portion longer than the pattern indicated. So, if yours is only just covering the bottom part of the bust and you want to wear your tank sans camisole, you'll be risking exposing your bra if you don't make it longer. 'Thought I'd share - hope this helps!

Oh yeah - one more thing! The extra inch should be added while still knitting in the round. Adding any length after the armhole BO would disrupt the seaming.

Just getting started...ease?

2006-06-27T11:01:00.000-05:00

Once I finish a stole/scarf from Mason Dixon, I'm going to cast on. I have some SWTC Oasis that I'm going to use, it swatches up about right (I'm having a hard time doing a circular swatch), and the SoySilk website says it can be subbed for Bamboo. I'm planning on adding a few inches to the length.

What kind of ease should I plan for? I'm hoping that I can get away with an inch or two of negative ease.

Feeling discouraged

2006-06-26T09:51:00.000-05:00

I discovered on Saturday, on row 14 of my first go through the lace pattern, that a stitch is missing somewhere. I put the tank aside in discouragement and am not sure whether to frog it completely or laboriously knit backwards to find the missing stitch. I guess I wasn't paying close enough attention. Also, the smaller needle I own is an addi turbo, and I found it a bit slippery with the hemp yarn. Should I buy another bamboo needle? Decision, decisions.

Thar she grows!

2006-06-25T17:55:00.000-05:00

I'm finally swatching, and things are going well. The unwashed swatch was dead on for the row count, but I had way too many stitches width-wise. Then I washed it, it's blocking upstairs -- and so much wider than it started out! Will re-measure once it's dry, but I think I'll be spot on (or close enough) for gauge. Bamboo really does bloom like you wouldn't believe.

One question, though: my bust is 33 1/2", the XS is 33 3/4. Should I be worried? After everyone's sizing issues, I'm a bit concerned.

The Lotus, she has Blossomed!

2006-06-24T11:51:00.000-05:00

I'm delighted to say that I have officially finished my Lotus Blossom Tank. I'm fairly happy with the finished product!

I used just over three balls of Jaeger Trinity yarn in Glacier and it took me about a week after my one false start. I did have to wing it with the pattern, though. The bottom is the size medium or second size or whatever. When I finished the fifth repeat I tried it on and realized that the top was going to be too big if I didn't size it down to the smallest size. So during the bustline decrease extravaganza, I made enough decreases to get me down to the smallest size.

I probably could have gone down even a little smaller, but as is the top of the sweater is loose but not too loose. I definitely have to wear something underneath so I don't flash anyone when bending over. The bottom is a little swingy, which I like. It's really super comfortable and something I will definitely wear.

The thought is still in my head to knit it in black and substitute the lotus blossom lace for the skull lace over at Hello Yarn. I may end up going for it sooner or later. Of course, I'm at the tail end of spinning up three pounds of Finn top for my very first sweater made entirely of handspun yarn, which has me very excited and otherwise engaged!

[Crossposted to pesky'apostrophe]

Vacation Project 101

2006-06-21T21:51:00.000-05:00

I love seeing everyone's wip & fo! Thanks to all the good advice, I've added the 5th lace repeat, and plan to make the stockinette section a bit longer too. I haven't taken it off the needles, but width seems okay. Now that I'm onto straight ss, this project is ready to get on the plane with me this Saturday to visit family and friends in Ohio/Michigan. Does anyone have an opinion on yardage: it took 1 skein = 4 lace repeats of size small, so that leaves 1 skein for the fifth repeat and all the stockinette. Do you think I should pick up another skein before I go???

Tried Mine On

2006-06-21T21:38:00.000-05:00

After finishing the front, I tried my LBT on and it fits - yay! My mods worked. So far, I've got the more A-line shape and longer length I wanted. Now, I just have to finish the back. I have about 5 inches until the shoulder shaping. I'm really excited about this tank! It's so different from anything else I've knitted this summer.

New to the knitalong

2006-06-20T20:28:00.000-05:00

I just started the LBT on Sunday, after a walk to my lys for supplies (I had a gift certificate burning a hole in my pocket). I am using Elsebeth Lavold's Hempathy, a blend of hemp, cotton, and modal. So far, it seems to be very easy on the hands. I'm past the most onerous part of any circular sweater, the casting on of hundreds of stitches, joining without twisting, and knitting into that first row. I'm now on Row 7 of my first trip through the lace pattern, using the chart. It looks great so far. I actually had to go down many needle sizes to get gauge, and I was relieved to read that others in this KAL had the same problem. Keep posting those pictures: they are inspirational.

Nearing the armhole BO...

2006-06-20T12:50:00.000-05:00

Here's my progress on my 39" size LBT! I've got about an inch or so to go before binding off at the armholes. As you can see from the measuring tape across the front, it is ~34 inches. Having 5 inches less than the pattern's 39 doesn't worry me, especially since I made a 32" Green Gable (with 12 short rows) that fit my 37" bust just fine.

It's hard to see the lace pattern due to the flash. But, the picture I took without flash was too blurry.

Progess report and in translation

2006-06-20T12:41:00.000-05:00

I tried on my LBT and while I'm content with the circumference (not too wide at all and it's nicely drapey), I was rather concerned it was shorter than I was expecting. However, I think I've decided I will lengthen the St st portion so the bust line will be where I want it and consequently address the lace length issue.

And out of curiosity, I asked a friend who speaks & reads both Cantonese & Mandarin to tranlate the Chinese LBT blog post, well the pic at least. It basically said it was the Lotus Blossom flower pattern in 100% cotton "thread" (probably yarn?) and she used 5 and 5.5 mm sized needles, but I'm sure everyone's already figured out the needle size part.

Edited to add: My friend also tells me the blog entry discusses how she felt about her accomplishment.

Bloomin' issues

2006-06-20T10:26:00.000-05:00

Well... I *was* really excited that I finished the Lotus Blossom tank. The fabric is beautiful. The little alien heads/lotus blossoms are pretty. But it's just too darn short.

This look might go over well on the weekends but I really wanted to wear this cute little top to work. And while the layered look might be in style...

I'm just thinking not-so-much my style. It takes away from the cute shaping of the neckline and in my opinion looks a little dumb. Nother problem was where the lace began. I'm not exactly well endowed, but my little tykes could peek out at the bottom of the stockinette. If you've got a little more upstairs than I do (I think most women out there do) you may want to consider adding a bit more stockinette just for the sake of decency.

I don't think I knit it wrong. In fact, as I took a look again at the magazine I think it's a fairly short top on the models as well. I just don't own pants that come up to my belly button so I end up with the need for even longer shirts.

So... last night while watching Jimmy Neutron I frogged the top part back to the armpits and picked up the stockinette banner once more. I figure I'll add another 4 inches of stockinette to the top. The lace should start somewhere near my belly button and it'll give me the length I want.

Aloha!

2006-06-20T01:19:00.000-05:00

I started this great tank on June 11th, but just found the KAL today. I could have used the emotional support during my gauging and lace-knitting (first time with lace patterns) but am thankful I found y'all now!
I am not using bamboo (my local yarn store is 60 miles away, and really small, and filled with nothing but eyelash yarn), instead using Filatura di Crosa Zara Merino from the stash...and I will run out. Yarn shortages in mind, I got gauge on a size 9 needle, which is making for a much looser and more open lacework. I am also incorporating one skein of grey into the green (waist, sleeves? Neckline?). I am at 1.5 inches of stockinette and I have about 200 yards of green left...
So I will be here, knitting, and holding my breath.
I love seeing everyone's photos, and it is comforting knowing y'all are out there!
Aloha!
Kel

otis loves bamboo!

2006-06-19T23:33:00.000-05:00

If he likes it, I like it. He is after all the King of the castle and my constant knitting companion. You know how some people wish their dog could fetch, well I wish mine could knit!! He can fetch, sneeze, sit, walk on 2 legs, lay, stay,shake and almost roll over. But he can't knit............
This was taken several days ago and now resembles this.................
Not really loving the color, it's really green not turquiose! Really wishing I would have went with the gorgeous sky blue............Otis looks better in this color than I ever will..........

Half a lotus position

2006-06-19T18:47:00.000-05:00

I'm happy to report that I have just finished the fifth and final lotus blossom lace repeat. I haven't had the heart to take it off needles to give a try-on yet, but it [a size medium] appears to be fitting better than my first attempt [a size large].

More than ever, I wish I would have knitted this in brown, black, or white. I'm really liking it, and I probably won't get that much wear out of it because of the color.

Coincidentally, it occurs to me that this might be a good project to substitute Hello Yarn's skull lace pattern for the lotus blossom lace pattern. I have not tried out the pattern yet, but it's an interesting idea. Has anyone made this tank with a different lace pattern?

Having trouble already!

2006-06-18T10:05:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone! I'm joining a little late but I'm not wasting time in encountering problems! I did 9 rows of the pattern, realized I made a mistake, took my work off the needles (which I bought for the project and hate - but I digress) and thought I would slip it on since it looked HUGE. I was right. I'm making the second size (39" bust) but it was big, big, big. I'm hesitant to cast on again for the smallest size, though, because I actually have a 40.5" bust. What to do?

Starting over

2006-06-17T12:54:00.000-05:00

I completed the fourth set of lotus blossom repeats, tried it on, and discovered that - despite my careful gauge swatching - something was seriously amiss. The sweater was so big that I could fit another person in it with me wearing it.

And so the frogging began.

On one hand, I felt wretched about it - I hate to frog. On the other hand, I messed up the first set of lotus blossom patterning so I didn't feel too awful about it.

So here I am knitting the medium size. I've just started my third set of lotus blossom repeats and all is well.

I've come to the realization that I am dazzled by color, which is a problem. I have a very simple wardrobe palette - brown, black, white, cream, and beige. When I buy clothes at a store, they are always in those colors. Yet when I knit a sweater or something, I always pick a real color for the yarn. Sure, it's pretty, but it's something that doesn't fit very well into my wardrobe. They say the first step is admitting you have a problem. Hopefully, going forward I will remember this little epiphany of mine and pick a more suitable color for my wardrobe.

Does anyone else do this? Ignore the reality of the situation and just pick colors that are unsuitable for you?

Do I have everyone listed?

2006-06-15T16:00:00.000-05:00

If you are reading this and you joined this KAL (I invited you via Blogger, you accepted, etc.), does your name appear on the list in the sidebar? And if you have a blog, did I link to your blog? Some of you created blogs after joining and I think I got everyone in this scenario updated. If not, please leave a comment or send me an email. Thanks!

On the subject of my Lotus Blossom Tank - um, I started mine last weekend and 5 rounds in, I discovered I twisted my stitches. I haven't touched it since. LOL! Actually, I've been trying to finish something else and I just seamed and wove in the ends, so that is done. I'll restart LBT soon.

Someone on flickr.com has a gorgeous blue one

2006-06-15T15:21:00.000-05:00

Saw this on flickr today. It's beautiful. Once of the tags says pima tencel, so I'm wondering if it's Cascade in #1694 or if it's a Classic Elite Premiere shade.

In the meantime, I'm still slowly progressing on my 3rd lace repeat. Crappy pics on my blog.

Hope all of you are well.

Finally started!

2006-06-14T14:52:00.000-05:00

Hi all,

It took me a while to get signed up for the KAL, but hey, I'm fashionably late, right?

I CO late on Sunday night, and so far I'm about 13 rounds into the first pattern repeat. I'm taking a chance and making the smallest size, which will give about 3.5" of negative ease. I've knitted a few tanks in the past year, and each one has been a little loose, despite going for zero or a little bit of negative ease every time, so I figure that positive ease would be disastrous for me! Plus lace can be blocked so severely that I'm not worried about the lace section being snug.

I'm using Elann Sonata (DK mercerized cable cotton) in a lovely pink-coral shade called Rosato. I'm using the size 4, 28" from my Needlemaster, which is fine, though I would prefer bamboo a wee bit.

I'll try to share photos when I figure out how. . . and when I take photos!

Cheers,
Helen (a.k.a. "hellahelen")

Oops!

2006-06-13T22:17:00.000-05:00

If victory tastes sweet, what does defeat taste like?

Somewhere about Row 9 (around 11:00 P.M. last night) I made a mistake. I've spent the past three hours trying to figure out what it was, but no dice. No matter how much I want to resist, I'm going to have to F-R-O-G. Bummer.

My notes so far:

Love the pattern--the lace repeats are pretty easy to memorize (although I think I missed a couple of yarn overs while knitting so late at night).
The Frog Tree cotton/silk blend is very nice, smooth, and silky, but a little splitty, and too slippery for my Denise needles. I think I'll search for my bamboo circulars before I cast on with this yarn.
The recommended 24" circulars are too small. I'm knitting the smallest size, but my stitches still feel really cramped. The 29" length is probably much better.

Anyway, there it is. Hope you all are having better luck. I look forward to seeing photos of your progress.

Tamara

I've made progress on Lotus Blossoms!

2006-06-13T14:22:00.000-05:00

OK, I just want to give a quick shout out to the lovely lady who mentioned that the blossoms look like Alien Heads.

Yup, thanks. Now, where once I saw lovely Lotus Blossoms, now I see only creepy Aliens Heads.

Nope, no nightmares here! Nuh-unh. Not me, no siree bob! There wouldn't be any nightmares here about being eaten alive and sky lifted to a flying saucer for scary tests. Just us Lotus Blossoms....

So, thanks. :)

Oh, and I've posted some progress pics on my blog at wordswitsnwool.blogspot.com.

It's fun to see everyone's progress. Keep it up!

Just getting started

2006-06-12T21:26:00.000-05:00

Hi All,

I just cast on for my LBT, and so far, so good. When I received my Summer '06 IK, I knew I wanted to make this project. However, it wasn't until I stopped into my (not so) LYS that I decided to make it sooner rather than later. The shop owner was wearing the LBT knit up in the SWTC "Parrot" variegated colorway, and it was BEAUTIFUL!! The drape on that yarn was perfect.

Unfortunately, she did not have any solid colors left, and I'm not a variegated kind of gal. I almost bought the yarn anyway because it looked so perfect knitted up. Instead of the SWTC Bamboo, I'm using the pima cotton/silk blend from Frog Tree. It is very lightweight and has a nice hand so far. I can't wait to see how the tank progresses in this yarn. I'll keep you all posted.

Tamara

Switching to the XS after the bust: here's the plan...

2006-06-12T09:28:00.000-05:00

I have written down a plan for how I will downsize my 39" size tank to the 33.75" size just above the bust. Since I'm petite, my shoulders are narrow in width and short in height measuring from the bust. Normally, I would probably wear the XS (33.75") and just make that size without any modifications. But, I haven't yet lost the 20-25 lb that I should. So, in the meantime I'm going to make some extra, evenly-spaced decreases on the front and back. These decreases fall after the largest part of my bust and after the armhole BO. To downsize, 28 sts need to be evenly decreased in total: 14 for the front and 14 for the back. All extra decreases are completed prior to the front neckline BO and the shoulder shaping on the back. In order to not take up too much space here, please read all further details on my blog post.

Has anyone noticed that the neckband is worked back and forth? Is this due to the curvature or length of the neckline? It must be easier (or necessary) to work back and forth, then connect each end in the front if that's what the pattern says. I wonder if it's possible to work the neckband in the round like the armholes? When I get to the point where I've picked up and knitted the neckline sts for the neckband, I guess I'll find out then!

Sizing Question - Please help!!

2006-06-12T08:46:00.000-05:00

My yarn arrived, and I am starting my swatches. I will need to adjust the pattern for sizing, and I am wondering if anyone out there has had to go bigger? It is hard to tell from the dinky little schematic in IK just where exactly the measurements are taken, and when I was measured for what looked like the same points, it seems that I need to increase width, but not length so much. Any advice for dealing with the neckline? I am not sure what to do about adjusting the triangles on the back and the front so that they match up correctly.

Also, how lacy (sheer) is the bottom panel? It is hard to tell from the photos, but it seems from the WIPs posted that it is not too sheer. Can you see da belly?? I hope not!! ;)

Thanks for helping!

LBT Experience

2006-06-11T18:07:00.001-05:00

Thank you Betty for inviting me to join this KAL. I recently finished my LBT and just put up a post about my experience on my blog. After seeing everyone's lovely yarn choices I am tempted to make another one!

Like the Titanic

2006-06-10T18:04:00.000-05:00

The Jaeger Trinity I ordered for the Lotus Blossom Tank arrived yesterday and I immediately tore open the box and got started. I got through the first set of the repeat. It doesn't look like much right now - I'm hoping some good blocking will fix it and it's not just that I royally screwed it up already!

I'm not 100% crazy about the color - it looked bluer online. I'll still wear it, of course.

How is everyone finding the sizing? I'm making the Large - my bust size falls between the medium and the large and I'd rather have it be slightly too big than look super busty.

Popping In To Say Hi

2006-06-09T16:03:00.000-05:00

I didn't know about this KAL until last week and Betty has graciously allowed me to join in the fun. I've been working on my Lotus Blossom for a while now and am about 2 inches into the stockinette part. It's such a lovely pattern and so fun to see how everyone else's is coming along. I can't wait to see all of them finished up.

Here's a quick shot of my work in progress. I hope to get it finished up this weekend as I'm pretty sure it will go quite fast.

See it at flickr

LBT WIP and bamboo yarn question

2006-06-08T22:56:00.000-05:00

Here's a pic of my 1st lace pattern repeat. Is this yarn going to get softer after more wear like linen and hemp? I'd love to know since I've never used bamboo yarn.

3/4 of my aliens have landed

2006-06-08T22:24:00.000-05:00

Hi All -- I'm so glad I found you. I've finished 3 rows of the lace pattern and started slowing down a bit (i.e., another yarn, another pattern caught my eye ;~})... I'm counting on this KAL to be my inspiration to finish (quickly). My LBT is in purple. I got the yarn as a Mother's Day gift (if you send them to the right LYS store with the magazine and pattern circled, they come back with something you love!). I've never worked with bamboo before and was surprised at its crunchiness. I assume it will soften once washed and blocked. I'm making the smallest size because the last couple of things I made out of IK came out way too big... I haven't taken it off the needles yet to try it on, but maybe will do so after reading some of your comments. Otherwise, I'm loving the yarn and the pattern. I created a faux-chart for myself to speed the process along (no symbols, just abbreviations). I've thought about adding a 5th repeat but am not sure (1) I'll have enough yarn and (2) I'll have enough motivation. Fortunately, I like how 4 repeats look. Anyway, here it is so far.

Welcome to the Alien Head KAL!

2006-06-08T21:37:00.000-05:00

My friends Julie and Rosemary over at the Craftborg Podcast plugged this KAL on their podcast this week. They said the lotus blossoms look like little alien heads. They might be right.

Go have a listen. It's within the first 5 minutes of the show so if you don't want to listen to whole thing, you could stop after they talk about the KAL.

What's a podcast? FREE digital talk radio. Better yet, what's a knitting podcast? Knitters talking about knitting. You don't need an iPod. It's mp3 format, so you can listen right on your computer.

A little annoyed

2006-06-08T11:55:00.000-05:00

I'm slowly progressing and finally get to row 10 where I switch needle sizes and what do I find? A lovely little knot where they joined the yarn. I wasn't expecting to deal w/any joining issues 'til I got to the end of the skein.

So, anyone who's knitted w/this bamboo yarn have any suggestions on how to do a join, other than the usual weaving type method? I've never done a Russsian join, but I thought that works only if the yarn is plied as the one cotton example I saw on an online tutorial somewhere. Are there any other methods? A name would be fine 'cause then I could just google it up. TIA for any help!

Chart Added

2006-06-08T08:34:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure if this was already mentioned but Interweave Knits added a chart for the lace part of the pattern on the corrections page of their website. There are no mistakes on the pattern, just a chart if you prefer the visual.

Someone in Blogland has an FO

2006-06-08T05:35:00.000-05:00

Not a part of this KAL, but whatever.

Yay!

Ready to cast on

2006-06-07T16:39:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone!
I am excited to be a part of this knitalong. I have swatched and am ready to go. Admittedly, I did not swatch the lace or in the round but let's hope for the best. I am subbing with Elann's Sonata in Cape Cod Blue, a very economical choice suggested by Hellahelen over at Knitty, is she the same Helen on this KAL?
Looking forward to seeing everyone's progress,
Kerry aka hootsister

Needle length?

2006-06-06T20:45:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone,
I ran out and bought all the recommended ingredients for this pattern, but when I cast on I felt like 230 stitches was really cramped for this short a needle. I thought it looked small in the store too (the pattern says to use a size 5 24"), but the folks out at my LYS said it looked fine.

Then I read Michelle's post saying this is supposed to be knit on a 29"... are there two different versions of this pattern? Please tell me I didn't just spend 15 dollars on a needle I'll never use.

I did a test swatch and it was a bit bigger than it should have been, I'm currently deciding whether to go out and get a smaller needle or adjust the pattern for a smaller size. Except... I just realized I was planning to make this thing based on my bra size, except I'm a size C, so I might want to add a few inches for the boobs... which will mean, most likely, casting on 260 stitches. Hmm. Anyway, here's a picture of the uber-pretty yarn after many frustrated unravelings.

2006-06-05T18:53:00.000-05:00

I'm Linda and blogless but I've always wanted to be part of a KAL and Betty said I can join without a Blog so here I am! I'm working my gauge...do you really have to knit the lace, in the smaller needle as well as the Stockinette for gauge? If so I'm just wondering how one would translate the whole pattern into a back and forth swatch given that it is written in the round?

SWTC Bamboo Sahara

2006-06-05T13:10:00.000-05:00

What do you think of this colourway? Do you think it looks too much like desert camouflage?

I have done a few rounds of the lotus blossom pattern, but I am worried about the colours now.

I know camo is 'in' at the moment but may be it's not 'age appropriate' for me, being nearly 50.

Excited to be here!

2006-06-04T21:40:00.000-05:00

I thought I'd go ahead and create a post even though I haven't started yet. 'Just wanted to say hi and I'm excited to belong to this KAL! I ordered my yarn on sale this weekend and expect to get it by Wednesday. Thanks to reading a helpful post on the knitty board, I was able to buy my yarn @ $9.45/skein. I really was torn between the parrot, tequilla, cobalt blue, and turquoise! In the end I ordered the turqouise. If I like bamboo, I can always do another summer project in one of the other colors mentioned...

Have you read through the entire pattern? I'm glad to see the use of Japanese short rows - that's how I do mine anyway. As for sizing: I'm a 37" bust size, so I'll probably make the 39" size. However, if I find the yarn is any bit stretchy when swatching, I might switch to the 33.75" size and do 5 repeats of the lace pattern rather than 4. I've never knit with bamboo. If it acts in any way like cotton, I'll really be leaning towards the smaller size because everything I've knit in cotton this summer has negative ease and fits nicely. Besides, I could always insert short rows at the bust if necessary.

Can't wait to start!

About Bamboo Yarn

2006-06-03T19:58:00.000-05:00

I checked gauge as I was knitting my swatch. It appeared as if my knitting was getting tighter and tighter. It went from 6 spi to 6.5 spi. I was a full stitch tighter than the pattern gauge. Yet the fabric I was producing was very loose and holey. In my short experience as a knitter, 1 stitch looser or tighter usually means about 2 needle sizes. In this case, I would probably have to go up to Size 7 needles. I worried about what my fabric would look like. Probably not something I would like very much.

I decided I would wash, block and re-measure gauge before I decided on anything, but even this worried me. Usually, blocking tightens things up, right? Anyway, swatch has been blocked. I am at 6 spi. Pre-blocking - I was at 6.5 spi. And somehow the fabric looks tighter than pre-blocking. The yarn softened - which I already knew it would do. But did it bloom?

If my math is correct, I can knit at my current gauge and follow the 39" bust directions, and I will have a finished bust of just under 36" which is what I want. The in-between size problem has been resolved!

I am happy, but nervous. I am going to check gauge A LOT. Here I go - I'm casting on.

Waiting for Godot...er, Trinity

2006-06-02T18:50:00.000-05:00

I'm new to the KAL - my name is Mac and I blog regularly over at pesky'apostrophe. It's been all stash knitting all the time for me recently, and the Lotus Blossom Tank did actually get started using something from the stash: Alchemy Synchronicity. It swatched up at gauge and everything - alas, I knitted the first two lotus flower pattern sets, gave it a test fitting and realized you could fit two of me in it. Something went seriously awry.

So I hunted around the stash some more, came up empty handed, conceded that I didn't have enough silk or bamboo fiber to spin enough yarn for it...and promptly placed an order. WEBS is having a close out on Jaeger Trinity, so I ordered it in a pretty blue color called Glacier.

And now...the waiting.

Gauge woes; happy ending?

2006-06-02T12:01:00.000-05:00

Hello fellow lotus knitters!

I've had quite a saga with this tank. I started knitting a few weeks ago using black Rowan 4ply cotton from the stash. Since this yarn is much lighter than the DK bamboo, I swatched like a good little girl, washed & blocked, and did lots of maths. The maths told me to cast on for the medium in order to get a slightly smaller than small (I have a 33" bust, prefer a fitted look, and know from experience to go for a fair amount of negative ease in tops, especially tanks, and especially cotton). I trusted the swatch and the maths (why would they lie?), proceeded to twist the cast-on row (doh!), and knit almost a full repeat before noticing. After tearing the needles out of the work in frustration, I measured the tank's start - well over 40"!!

So I started again, this time casting on 170 st to create an extra small. Currently I'm working on the back shoulders. I added an extra lace repeat, and lengthened the stockinette portion so that the line between lace & stockinette wouldn't bisect the boobies. I've tried the tank on obsessively, and she fits! Hope to have pictures up in the next week or so.

Good luck to everyone on knitting and fitting,
~gali