Vlad

Hello dear readers,

No, I haven't fallen down a bottomless pit of despair. I do have news to share though: I've passed my Master's Thesis defense! This means that I now have my Master's degree...and am only half-way through my doctoral schooling. Oh well, baby steps. :-/

Anyway, now that I have a bit more breathing room, I thought I'd try and finish a few of my knitting projects languishing away in my closet. Here is my most recent:

Vlad Dragul

It was once (in Valahia), a prince Dragul by his name, a very wise and skillful man in war... 

Vlad by Tammy Bailey
Needle: 5
Yarn: Blue Moon Fiber Arts Socks that Rock Lightweight
Skeins: 1 (350 yards)
Size: 7 repeats

This pattern had caught my attention a while ago but I had abstained from casting on because of school priorities and not having the proper yarn. I really shouldn't deprive myself though. I really lucked out with this particular pattern; the lace is quite easy and intuitive, yet looks complicated. Also, the edging is spectacular. Just follow the pattern and you'll be fine. You can, however, increase the number of repeats to make the shawl bigger. I knit seven repeats of the pattern and had thought of knitting an eighth pattern, but decided against it. I'm so glad I did because I just about used the entire skein for seven repeats.

On to the yarn: Socks that Rock is wonderfully squishy and sproingy. And the colors! To die. I think perhaps the color I chose is too busy for this pattern, but it may be alright. When I knit this again (and I will), I'll probably choose a solid-colored yarn. Also, the yarn bled a little during blocking so be careful when using strong colors.

Serious face.

Overall, this is a lovely and quick knit. I'll definitely make a couple of more in the future. I do have a couple of things to finish up though...

Enjoy the lazy days of summer!