I experienced quite a slow start to this project, mainly because of the first 8 inches of stockinette stitch, but once I was able to get into the pattern, I was pleased with how the yarn was knitting up and challenged with each new section of pattern and shaping. Regarding the short rows of the “pouch” section, I only did about six short rows altogether. Once I saw that it was really creating more of a pouch than I wanted for my body shape - and I’m not going to store anything in there anyway, I quit that shaping and I’m very happy I did. If I had thought sooner, I would have added a purl stitch to each side of the body as a faux seam stitch, as is done in traditional gansey sweaters. Now that I’m onto the second sleeve, I have added this purl stitch to the underarms of both sleeves.

I have also increased the sleeve stitches to the size of the 49 1/2 for a bit of additional ease to wear a turtleneck underneath.

I have blocked the body prior to setting in the sleeves as I think it will lend to a smoother seam.

This pattern is SO well written, many ‘kudos’ to the designer for this. I’m looking forward to picking up stitches for the hood in another week.

More photos later.

Project is finished! It was a fun knit, the pattern directions were well written and easy to understand, and this will be a very cozy addition to my winter wardrobe.