FO: A Classic Raglan

Sometimes, you have to go with simple.

I know I pick a lot of colors, I like to make bold statements and pick unusual patterns and color combos but sometimes simplicity really is the key. My cousin is absolutely adorable and has a very petite frame. I love knitting her sweaters because she loves to be bundled up and can be pretty much all year in Chicago. I told her boss that I knit her sweaters so she doesn’t quit and just hibernate all winter. For her holiday box of gifts, I decided to knit her the Ladies Classic Raglan sweater. Another gem of a pattern from Jane Richmond (speaking of, did you see her feature on Huffington Post Canada?).

I even used the Patons Classic Wool suggested for the pattern because 100% wool is so warm. I grabbed it during the black Friday sales. I was drawn to this soft pink/lavender shade and knew it would be lovely with her complexion. I was so right. Despite the balls of yarn all being in the same dye lot, you can see where I joined a new ball in the middle…I’m not too pleased about that but then only knitters will notice that change in color. And what can I really do once it’s finished? No matter what it fit her nicely, I just wish the sleeve was slightly longer but it’s a bracelet length on her which is great because I gave her a great bracelet for Christmas too.

I do love how easily you can adapt this pattern. I could remove the waste shaping and make a men’s version for my husband (but we’ve already determined his closet is jam packed and he needs nothing else) or make it in a boyfriend version for myself. I have a lovely bright pink in Lion Brand Heartland that I think I’m going to use to make this for myself. And although I’m on the west coast for work right now, I see back home we’re preparing for a huge amount of snow the day I’m supposed to get home. As exhausted and tired as I am I’d love a snow day to knit and curl up with Cher! Plus I can wrap up in some of my knitting!

Anyone else have some classic patterns they just love? Do tell!