Today is my due date and it seems my son is enjoying himself way to much to come on out. If there's one thing I've learned about going into labor is that it can happen anytime, anywhere and "when he's ready." You just have to be open to the options and that things may not be according to "the plan".
It's a good thing that this kid's mom is a knitter because I'm already open to times when things don't go according to plan. I love the idea of a blanket cardigan - an over-sized sweater that can be thrown on and wrapped all cuddly like. It was one of the knits I was dying to design at the onset of my pregnancy. I knew a sweater like this would be used and abused even through the first months of parenthood. But what may look like a great idea on paper may not totally translate well into a finished piece.
The yarn I used was a bit too bulky for this style of cardigan. The general weight of the finished piece was so great that when I shrugged my shoulders a few times it came falling off with ease.
I also didn't like how the weight of the front pieces lifted the back and created a weird shape. One dear friend on FB even said it looked like I had a hunchback! (thanks for that David!) But he was right - it just didn't look right and thus needed to be RIPPED*.
While it stung to know that this may be one of the final pieces I got a chance to complete before bebe (and sleep deprevation) I knew I just had to make the modifications needed to make it a successful cardigan.
I plan on keeping the texture and the shawl collar but will go for a more traditional cardigan route. As for the blanket cardigan - I won't give up on that dream! It will just have to wait for another round of inspiration to strike.
In the meantime I am doing all I can to help this kiddo realize it's time for him to arrive. Spicy foods, hanging curtains, dancing the jig ;-) We are so looking forward to meeting him!
*Rippage side note: I've realized that owning a steamer comes in handy in times like these. The yarn was so kinky after ripping I had to do the slow process of wet blocking the yarn. I attempted to try the kettle trick but that would have been a crazy way to spend a whole day straightening yarn. With the tip from a twitter friend I am now awaiting a new steamer delivery and hope to cast on for it's "cousin" soon!