Mary Maxim recently offered some of its knit patterns for $0.99, online for digital download. One pattern was for a bulky sweater.
My mom used to knit bulky sweaters when I was small. Me and my 5 siblings all had one. I do not remember what designs she used, but the jackets were warm. I ordered a few of my favourite bulky designs to knit in the near future. So sentimental. Yup, that`s me.
I also discovered and downloaded several more modern patterns. One pattern that I really like is the Diamond Coat – No. 4341-2-3N. Pattern can be found here: https://www.marymaxim.com/diamond-coat-pattern.html
The pattern reminded me of sweater coats that I saw in Ireland, only closures (buttons) are located at the neck. I think this sweater coat would look fantastic with a belt at the waist. Although I paid for the pattern, I wanted to change a few things and make it my own.
Diamond Coat
I made changes to the pattern as follows:
- Instead of Mary Maxim Bulky, I used 2 strands of Ice yarns (70% Merino, 30% Acrylic), one strand was dark grey and the other was dark purple. I really like the combination.
- I moved the diamond pattern from the front of both the left and the right pieces to the sides, under the arms.
- I changed the pockets. Instead of the patch pockets, I knit a pocket for each side, which I inserted into the side seams. I knit a k1,p1 band on each side seam of the front, where I wanted to place the pockets.
- The pattern calls for a k1,p1 band on the front edge of each front pieces. Instead, I knit 5 rows of Seed stitch.
- Instead of the diamond pattern up each sleeve, I knit 2 plain sleeves. I also changed the cuff bands from Garter stitch, to Seed Stitch.
- The pattern calls for a Garter stitch collar. Instead, I used a Seed stitch.
If I use this pattern again, I will change the pattern for the sleeves. I found that the sleeves were smaller than the opening and that they looked more like raglan sleeves than set in sleeves.
Consider a pattern as a guideline. Make changes to suit your taste or that of your clients. Every time you knit the pattern, you can make one or more changes, to produce a one of a kind item.
Note:
Just remember to knit a 4×4 swatch to check your tension before you start the project.