Roam Tunic (or, My Footy Tipping Tunic)

One morning last week, at about 5am, I was abruptly awoken by the urgent whisper of our seven year old hissing, "Mummy! Mummy! I don't understand ever!" Not being entirely at my mental best, I managed a hazy "Huh?" He explained, "Well, in my mind everything has to have an end. But ever doesn't...and I just don't understand it!" I suggested we discuss it once the sun was up. He happily agreed, climbed into bed and immediately fell asleep. It occurred to me several times over the next two wide-awake hours, that I don't really understand ever either...

Nor do I understand short rows in knitting. But I can do them! Correction: I can do them when I have very clear and explicit instructions in front of me - like the Roam Tunic has. And with that neat little segue, here is is my finished Roam:

I'm really, really happy with this one! I used Bendigo Woollen Mills 12 ply (bulky) Rustic yarn, and it was bee-yew-tiful to use. And quick! I was expecting to need a couple of months at least to finish this, but I think it was about 3 1/2 weeks of not-even-very-consistent evening knitting. That's the great thing about thick yarn, I guess!

This is the first Amy Christoffers pattern I've tried, and I'd recommend it in a heartbeat. It's extremely clear and easy to follow (even the short rows!), and the fit is fantastic The cable panel is easy - just an eight row repeat - but satisfying knitting. (I've got my eye on her Stonecutters Cardigan too - the stitch pattern is just like one I had and loved that belonged to my grandfather, but that I lent out for a school production of Annie and never saw again...)

It's SO snug and cozy, and while I wasn't sure initially about short sleeves on a thick jumper, now I've had it on I'm sold. And if it's really cold, I can always wear a long sleeved top underneath. I'm toying with the idea of making another with long sleeves, maybe in red... It is quick, after all...

Why "Footy Tipping Tunic"? Because I bought the wool with my winnings from the work AFL tipping competition :) We go week by week, rather than having a end of season prize, which I think is wonderful. Even more wonderful is the fact that I can barely tell the teams apart, and won my round by flipping a coin to pick winners. Annoyed certain Alpha Males no end, I can tell you!

So there you are - I finally have my long line grey jumper! Expect to see this one in heavy rotation during Me Made May 2014.... It replaces my first attempt rather well, wouldn't you say?

       Still Light Tunic  VS  Roam Tunic
 
            I think we have a winner....








What are you working on at the moment? Any sewing/knitting joy to share?

Have a wonderful week :)