Unsuccessful Adventures in Steeking

I've started a new project.  I was itching for some colorwork, so I cast on for Eunny's Deep-V Argyle Vest. I had some major gauge issues (like most people who start this project), but I was unable to get stitch or row gauge. After consulting with a very technical knitter, I decided that I would basically knit the body to my own specifications and use the gauge I liked best, while consulting the color chart for patterning.  I was already planning to make the V not so deep, so what's another set of changes anyway?  It seems to be working out nicely so far.

Another challenge with this project is that the yarn I'm using (which I bought specifically at Rhinebeck for this project) is superwash wool.  Eunny states at least twice in the pattern that superwash wool is not recommended.  I know, I'm just breaking all of the rules.

I was curious about how much I would need to reinforce my steek because of the non-grabby tendencies of superwash wool.  I started up with a plain swatch.

And then I did some crochet reinforcement with Rowan Felted Tweed (a very grabby yarn).

At first it looked fine.

But if I worked at it, I could worry the stitches loose. 

It did take a little bit of targeted tugging to pull the stitches free, so the steek probably would have been fine if it was hemmed carefully.  But if I count this as a failure, that means I can keep trying other possibilities.

I'm counting it as a failure!  Coming up soon, more adventures that we hope will be a little more successful.

Comments

[chrispy]

so sad. I love the colors that you had chosen. What about doing a sewing machine reinforcement?

[Ruth]

I know Eunny abhors them, but the sewing machine zigzag is pretty foolproof.

[Deborah]

I love the colors you chose for this knit. The blue and orange look awesome together. Don't consider it a failure. Look at it as a learning experience. :-)

[stacey]

huh - good to know - it will be interesting to see what technique works the best! machine stitching maybe?

LOVE the color combo!

[Anne]

I remember when you bought that yarn. I'm really impressed with how you are working your way through all the yarn you bought at Rhinebeck! I agree that the sewing machine reinforcement is probably the way to go.

[Liz K.]

Best of luck with this, Kristy. I'm still too chicken to steek.

[tiennie]

I still haven't tried steeking so I applaud you for figuring it out and seeing what will and won't work.

[Beth S.]

LOVE your colors. :-)

[Brenda]

Wonderful color choices. I'm sure you'll find the perfect way to steek with this yarn. You are very persistent and a good problem solver.

[Tanya]

I would love to do this pattern but I've just heard of so many issues...not with the pattern so much as with the technique/gauge/etc. Looks like you have it all figured out! Good luck and I can't wait to see more.
BTW, I've read all the recent posts and just wanted to say that your socks are gorgeous and love the sewing you've been doing!

[Jessica]

I bet you've got something up your sleeve with a sewing machine that will make it work. At least I hope so! It's too pretty not to make it work in those colors! Love the FO from the last post too. :)