Update: this yarn is so nice and soft but it seems to stretch like crazy! I cant wear this sweater because the neckline has stretched out so much.

I bought a navy blue sweater at least 10 years ago from LL Bean in Freeport Maine and it’s been my go to sweater ever since its so ratty now that I am making a copy of the simple, oversized design. It’s perfect to throw on when I need an extra layer against a chilly room. My first top down sweater and am using instructions from Fringe Association. So far, so good. About to separate for the sleeves.

Sept 7, 2016 - Started over as bottom up. Have nearly finished all the pieces. hoping it works out.

Sept. 21, 2016 - Neckline was too big, falling off my shoulders so I used size 4 US Needles, pick up every stitch around neckline - 170 Sts - working in round
Row 1: K1, K2together. 85 Sts
Rows 2-5, Knit
Row 6, Bind off using size 8 Needle in right hand and Knit Picot Chained Cast-Off on pg. 82, “The Principles of Knitting,” June Hemmons Hiatt: K 1 to start, K1, BO, Knit remaining stitch on right needle This makes an elastic edging). If this is too big, redo w 8 needle in reg loose BO.

The first sweater I’ve made without a pattern and am so happy w the result!

This yarn is very, very nice. Very soft.
Sweater has rolled neckline, picot edging around bottom to prevent roll. I think it is an improvement on the original & it looks good on my pear-shaped figure. I have five-plus navy skeins & 2 skeins of mulberry left.

8/26/18 - the neckline stretched out so much I couldn’t wear the sweater so I finally fixed it. I picked up stitches all around on #4 US needle, knit one row, then to decrease stitches K2, K2 together all around. Then K1P1 for a couple rows. Used the crochet bind-off to keep it from stretching. The neckline is a tad higher now than I want but it’s okay and I think I’ll now be able to wear this sweater. I love this year b/c it’s so soft and has wonderful drape but the stretching is just awful.