A monochromatic blue/white stranded knit starting with Meg Swanson’s PWYC (purl when you can) border followed by small boxes with different motifs I pulled willy nilly out of any book/magazine that I could grab, plus a few I sort of made up or changed. I want this to fit him somewhat close to emphasize his strong back and muscled shoulders. Will likely do a V neck and set the sleeves in to add a little length to the arms.

First attempt abandoned after an inch or two - too small. As of Nov 1 I have the border and 2 sets of motifs. I think will look good.

Nov 4: Ripped it all out again and added 2 motifs for a total of 308 sts. Also changed the border a bit and it is not trying to curl as much. Almost to the V neck and under arm steeks. Am finally happy with it.

Final tension: Bottom band 9 sts per inch on 2.75m. Body - 8.80 sts per inch in st st on 3m.

Nov 14: now going quickly, as I am reducing stitches for V neck, and have stitches on hold beneath underarm steeks. Should be done body in a few days. Looking good.

Dec 1: Complete except for blocking and a little finishing inside.

Dec 26: This fits Jay as I had hoped. Fits him close, but not too tight through hips and waist, and the elongated under-arm gussets add just enough extra room for his chest. I am very pleased with fit and I think he likes it. Yay!

I am now in love with the Madelaine Tosh light yarn. It is super soft next to skin. I ordered some in Saggitarius for myself.