From grandpa to fashion plate

Remember this sweater? I bought this a few months ago at the Salvation Army and unraveled it for knitting yarn. I would like to think that it is much happier now in its current incarnation!


Here's a first look at my new sweater. I've decided to call it the Shalom Cardigan. I'm not sure why that word came to mind, but it seemed to fit very well. The sweater is made from a thick knit fabric, and I really do feel a sense of peace with the ribbed yoke wrapped around my shoulders. It's like a gentle hug.


The cardigan was knit in two pieces--but I would knit it seamlessly in one piece were I to make it again. I held the yarn doubled to obtain a nice, thick fabric. I was even able to reuse one of the original buttons for the closure! Total cost for this sweater was about $5 (plus many hours thinking up the pattern, and a few days knitting time). I'm very pleased.


Check back soon if you're interested in making a Shalom Cardigan for yourself. I'm planning to write up a pattern and will offer it free of charge to anyone interested. The only catch is that I will not be making any size adjustments, nor can I recommend a particular yarn--since mine is thrifted, and certainly one-of-a-kind. But, if you're adventurous, or an experienced knitter, I'm confident that you'll be able to tweak my pattern to fit your needs.