23.01.2022

Today I am embarking on my double knitting journey! This will be my very first double knit project.

I designed the pattern myself, since I found a relatively quick way to create pixel art - with pixels in a ratio I want - in Adobe Illustrator. For the grid, I used a pixel ratio of 7:5, that means, 5 in height and 7 in width. I multiplied the row height with 1,4. I did that because the stitches in double knitting are NOT square. If you simply take perler beads art or pixel art and knit this, your picture will become squashed because pixels and perler beads are square and double knit stitches are not.

So - I know that out there in the ravelry pattern base, there is already another pattern for a Super Mario scarf. This is why mine is a personal pattern. I will not sell it. But as an illustrator, I created some of the characters a little differently (improved them in my regard), also added a few design elements of my own (Kirby can be found on the scarf, as well as the checkered lines on each side). I didn´t create this pattern to compete with the other pattern, I only wanted to create my own to have a playing field, and because my son loves Super Mario.

30.01.2022

Wow. Double Knitting is a yarn eater.
Who knew.

So it takes longer to knit, the fabric doesn’t fall as nicely as stranded or single layer, and it is very, very yarn hungry.

I guess for a scarf it’s all right to use it, especially because it’s reversible, but I doubt I will use this technique very often. I could imagine using it for cardigans, where you need a little sturdier fabric to make button holes not become flabby or so.

12.05.2022

My first and probably my last Double Knitting project, the scarf is finally finished!

Cons regarding Double Knitting are:
Takes too long
Knitted object becomes too heavy
Wrists move too much, even though I´m using a knitting belt
Needs too much yarn

It was a useful experience, but I doubt I will knit anything in doubleknitting again. (Oh wait - I wanted to knit a small blanket for my cat Fuli. But that might be the only thing besides this project.)

27.01.2023

Due to the thickness of the fabric, the Super Mario shawl is not being worn. It is just too stiff a fabric and doesn’t snuggle nicely against the neck.

If I ever use Double Knitting on something that needs to be drapey again, it will only be in Fingering as maximum. Lace would probably even be better.