Phildar Asymmetrical Sweater

When I first started knitting and found the knitting blogging world, I found Becky. The fact that she could knit these things from complicated French patterns inspired me and it made me want to reach that level. I would look at the Phildar magazines on line and could not wait to be able to learn French. I even started listening to French podcasts so I could learn French, just to understand the Phildar patterns. Then I found out that Phildar was translating their patters, I bought some (at least 3?) of their pattern books.

This sweater was my first attempt at a Phildar sweater, and let me tell you kids, translated into English does not necessarily mean that these patterns make sense. No sirreee bob. Sometimes it seems that the pattern is just literally translated, without any thought to wether or not it is clear.

Thankfully, Olgita indulges me in question after question and teaches me how to do things to make the pattern work better for me. (this is the last time I make an entire ribbed sweater on US 3 with twisted stitches - yuckie!).

Pattern Details:
Pattern Source: Phildar Asymetrical Sweater from Phildar Tendances Autumn 2 N. 456
Yarn: Rowanspun DK in Mouse (I think 7 and a half skeins).
Needle Size: US 3 Susan Bates. This project made me realize that although I love the practicality of my Denise Interchangeables, nothing compares to some metal needles. I just bought 3 Addi Turbos from Yarnbow... hee hee.
Modifications: Olgita made me do twisted knitted stitches on the right side of the project since the yarn felts a little. This made the ribbing pop up more.
What I learned: Phildar patterns look pretty, but they are hard to understand. Read, reread, and see if you have a good knitting friend that does not get tired of your questions. Oh, and I also learned that sometimes, the buttons cost more than the yarn - although I love these.

edited to add: i also learned how to do a knitted cast on for the button bands (Olga made me do this too) and how to sew on live stitches to a garment.




Next on the knitting horizon are some gifts for my dad to take to Argentina with him. I finished some Fetching gloves for my aunt, and am working on a scarf for my uncle, then I have to do a little something for my grandmother ( I was thinking one of those cute little purses/clutches from One Skein) and something for my other uncle so he does not get jealous. A roll brim hat perhaps? what do you guys think?

As soon as I am done with that, I will continue my Phildar Swing Jacket... oh I cannot wait to attack that French pattern again.