This is the thirdfifth time I’ve cast on for this project. The first time I got as far as the yoke w/ sleeves, but ripped the whole project out because there were flaws that I knew would drive me crazy.

The second time I got half-way up the body, but the increases/decreases looked wonky so I ripped this version out too.

Third time around, I’m still not thrilled with the increases/decreases, but I do have good-looking ribbing. I’ve always been unhappy with the look of a knit stitch that precedes a purl stitch. To fix, simply give the stitch to be purled on the left-hand needle a firm tug with the tip of the right-hand needle before purling. This tightens up the knit stitch just made and prevents that wonky, loose look. :-)

2/21 -- This pattern is jinxed, I swear. Got up this a.m. and found that the cat had “knitted” a day’s worth of work. Pulls everywhere! Had to tear out over half the body, re-skein the yarn, then wash and dry it. Ugh. Oh well, maybe I can eliminate the increase holes -- not only am I going to use a new technique, I’m going to increase along the sides rather than at the back.

2/23 - Finished! Just needs a soak and blocking. I’m a month early on this gift! If I knit it up for myself, I’ll need to knit it a bit longer to fit my torso; otherwise the fit around the bust and shoulders was perfect. Not sure I’m going to add buttons for the eyes; will let my mother make the call.