You can
find me on Ravelry.com as KnitterCNY.
The podcast group at Ravelry.com is HERE.
Before you go
to the yarn store:
Swatch with your favorite needles and
yarn.
Write down what gauge you get (Stitches per
inch/centimeter)
Measure yourself (chest measurement)
Write that measurement down.
Measure your "go to" sweater
Write down the "finished chest measurement" of your "go to"
sweater
Take that piece of paper with you.
When you get
to the yarn store:
Look at the patterns first, NOT THE YARN.
Find a pattern that you like that has the finished measurement
you want and the gauge you want.
Now go find the owner and ask about different yarns that might
work for this pattern. Tell the owner it is your
first sweater and if you need machine washable/dryable yarn or have
an allergy to certain fibers. Look for color
changing yarn that is more exciting to knit with than a solid
color.
Buy one extra skein than you think you need (trust me).
When you get
your yarn and pattern home:
Swatch with the yarn and needles you plan to use for the
sweater. Change needle sizes if necessary to get the gauge
that is called for in your pattern.
Photocopy your pattern and put it into a sheet
protector. Put original pattern someplace safe.
Write on the pattern the needle you are using (i.e. Clover
Bamboo US Size 8)
Write on the pattern the yarn you are using (i.e. Patons Merino
Wool - Navy - 8 skeins)
Keep your swatch, photocopied pattern, needles, and yarn all
together in one project bag. The bag should not have a
zipper.
Music in
this episode comes from the Podsafe Music Network