Millefiori Cardi

When the Interweave Knits Spring 2009 preview came out I was immediately drawn to the Millefiori Cardigan by Andrea Pomerantz.

Although I love the cute button band and the 3/4 sleeves, I think it was the color that sold me on the sweater. I've been looking for a cardi in that color for Spring. And, I had just enough Rowan Rowan RYC Cashsoft DK in a similar color left from another project.

I got gauge easily so I cast on. The twisted rib went smoothly and I like the effect. Then I came to the clam-stitch detail. All progress came to an abrupt halt. I don't know what my problem was with that stitch. At one point I decided I was going to insert another pattern into that section. However, I decided I was going to overcome my frustration and stick it out. I did triumph and I'm glad I stuck it out. Now I think I could do that pattern in my sleep!

For the clam stitch alone I would not recommend this pattern for a novice knitter. You have to be comfortable with yarn overs in front of knit and purl stitches to be able to do the stitch. And, you have to keep track of your stitches closely through the section.

Other than my trials with the clam stitch I like how the sweater is coming along. It should be easy going now ... until I get to the clam stitch on the front panels anyway!