FO: Josephine - C'est Fini!

It is not often that I am able to tout a project I'm working on as finished, slow knitter that I am. But here we have a lucky one! My latest FO- Josephine (AKA French Girl's Fifi). Knit using Rowan Calmer in Refresh and US7 needles. Photos below courtesy of two gifted photographers (thanks, Lori and Julia!) and one rather popular photo shoot spot.

I previously posted about how much I was enjoying knitting this little sweater at the WIP stage, and I'm happy to say that the love affair continued 'til the end. I am officially a member of the Calmer fan club. I am in love with this yarn, and I can see why Marnie uses it so often. It's a dream to work with- it's soft to the touch, and provides great stitch definition. As evidenced by this super cool detail shot via Lori and her kickass camera. (I'm laughing right now, remembering how this photo was achieved.)

I must have mentioned before that I am largely incapable of knitting lots of plain stockinette. As such, I am deeply envious of anyone who revels in this kind of knitting. I've abandoned more projects than I'd like to admit because I couldn't get through the stockinette. Why bring this up? Well, until I bite the bullet and invest in a knitting machine (and it is really just a matter of time), I choose to focus on designs that I know will hold my interest. This top down design met my self-imposed requirements: it provided enough cables & things to hold my interest, yet it was simple enough that I could still zone out and get into a groove while knitting.

The cable details at the top add visual interest and given that my body is in dire need of a series of yoga and/or pilates classes at this particular point and time, I really appreciate the elongating, dare I say "flattering"effect of the vertical ribbing along the sides. To further elongate (literally), I decided to add several inches to the bottom.

I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a cute, short-sleeved top to knit. I would say that I love this top so much I would knit it again, but come on; you and I both know I won't. But it's not for lack of love. I know this will be one of my favorite handknits. I love the style, as it echoes the style of one of my favorite cap-sleeved t-shirts, the color makes me happy, and I am quite happy with the fit (even though it requires some tugging at the bottom while being photographed). I also foresee wearing this top a lot. It will go with my wardrobe standard a-line skirts, and should also look good with jeans and slacks. All in all, j'adore!