With ten blocks down and six to go we feel like we are cruising quickly toward the end of the Cascade Knitterati KAL and our feelings are mixed at this point. We’re happy to soon wrap up in the fruits of our labour, but sad at the same time that we are coming to an end to this fun and educational knit along. We can honestly say that we have learned a lot of new techniques as well as some helpful tricks of the trade.
Marsha tells us that Block #10 was one of her favourite squares to knit so far. “A quick and fun knit, none of the stitches were difficult but together they give the impression that this might be a more complicated knit”. Considering Marsha has done all of the tricky blocks so far, we can totally understand why she enjoyed this one so much!
This week we are featuring Marsha’s photo of her square during the blocking process in an effort to emphasize the importance of blocking your knitting. Blocking is a crucial final step when completing a project, it opens up your knitting and allows your yarn to bloom. If you are taking the time to make something by hand, take the time to block, it’s always worth the extra effort.
Block #11 was released this week and Team Estelle member Trish volunteered to do the honours. A self proclaimed cable lover, Trish was more than happy to get started on this block.
Talented knitting instructor and designer Amy Herzog cleverly designed Block #11. Amy’s sweater designs have been featured in Twist Collective, Knitscene, Interweave Knits, Knitty, and more. This simple combination of seed stitch and cables make for an impressive block that will stand out nicely among the others once assembled.
Having completed her current wip’s and with nothing on the needles, Trish was keen to get Block #11 started as soon as it was released. Not a fan of using a cable needle, Trish was pleased to find that even with an eight stitch cable, Cascade 220 Superwash Merino didn’t split when working the cables without a cable needle.
It’s never too late to join in on the fun! Even though we are eleven blocks in, if you follow the Ravelry thread for the Cascade Knitterati KAL you will see that knitters are still signing up to participate. All you need to do is enter your email address here to register to receive the pattern installments every three weeks. There are no rules, you can knit at your own pace and enjoy learning new techniques while you create this show-stopping lapghan.
We love seeing all the photos of your wip’s and finished blocks so please keep sending them to cascadegradientlapghan@estelledesigns.ca.
Happy knitting and crocheting everyone!