06.Jan.2018

• Despite hitting gauge for the small size (36” bust), had to do 10 rows of shells before starting the yoke section, because the neck/shoulders just didn’t seem to be getting wide enough. Might still not fit properly? Problem might be that test is using heavier worsted yarn on a 4.5mm hook. Lighter yarn and/or a larger hook might help.
• The fabric with this worsted yarn is very stiff and has poor drape. This may also be due to using a 4.5mm hook. This is another reason to try again with lighter yarn and/or a larger hook.
• I wonder if adding a single chain between each regular shell (to help cover the gap between shells) would help improve drape with heavier worsted yarn. I’m too far through the test to try it.
• Pattern calls for 9 fsc for the arm holes. I had to do 17 fsc for for mine (but I don’t have fat arms!) yet the space still feels tight/pinchy on the underarms. This might improve with blocking.

30.Jan.2018

Encountered problems with the pattern when trying to connect the neckline… The bust has ballooned out to 48” when it should only be 36”. This will be due to the problem with the arm holes and all the extra stitches I had to add. Designer has not responded to comments on the pattern so frogging it.