Construction Alert

It's interesting to see that when we learn something new, our awareness broadens and our focus goes where it didn't go before. Lately, as I've become more aware of knits, knitted apparel, and things made of yarn, I am looking more closely at what people are wearing.

Now, this must be done delicately. My gaze could zoom in to inappropriate locations or veer at inopportune times - taking away from the conversation in progress and creating a rather awkward exchange.

FO construction is interesting because it makes me realize what can happen when different shaped pieces and parts come together to create something more grandiose, something beautiful. A front sweater panel by itself is uneventful and would make a good placemat at best. But bring it together with another front, a back, a couple of sleeves - and you've got a beautiful, useful piece of clothing!

A small square swatch of knitted fabric is either helpful in determining gauge or as a coaster under a drippy beverage. But, if you piece together 40 or 50 of those swatches, it becomes a dramatic blanket, a family heirloom.

Today, I will pay more careful attention to how things are constructed, stitches that are used, yarn that is employed and the role that yarn and its dyed colors plays in the overall look of a finished object.

And, I'll try not to let my attention veer too much due to a fibrous distraction or a cacophony of knitted color.