Knitting Help

[dexstarr]

I know that a few of you on my friends list knit, so I thought I'd toss this question out there.

I am finally nearing the end of the Slytherin House scarf I started a year ago, and I'm thinking about what project to pick up next. I'd like to do a sweater, but is it worth it? My abilities are confined to knit and purl pretty much, and I have a hard time reading patterns. Can anyone recommend an easy pattern? I'd ideally like a simple pullover. I've tried looking on Ravelry, but I'm just not sure. A sweater seems like such an overwhelming project. But then, I can't think of something else I would actually use....

Also, could I use a yarn like Caron Simply Soft? Or another acrylic? I don't want to spend a ton of money on yarn for a project that might turn out horribly.

Comments

[severus-kat.livejournal.com]

Maybe a tiny project like a nice soft Slytherin bookmark?

[dexstarr.livejournal.com]

Mm thanks for the suggestion, but I use old Magic cards for bookmarks.

[karelia.livejournal.com]

You don't necessarily need a pattern for a sweater, and yes, if you can knit a scarf you can knit a sweater. For the most basic sweater, all you need to do is knit four rectangles, two of each identical: two for the front/back, and two for the sleeves.

If you're near a library (or bookstore), go for Elizabeth Zimmermann's Knitting Without Tears. It tells you a lot without dampening your creativity.

[dexstarr.livejournal.com]

Thanks for the vote of confidence. Ideally, I'd like to make something I could wear to work, which is probably wildly ambitious, considering it has taken me a year to finish my scarf. Maybe I'll have it for next winter.

I'll look that book up for sure. I've been relying mainly on youtube and googling for teaching myself, but I can never pass up a good book.

[dexstarr.livejournal.com]

Thanks for the suggestion, but nah. I'm picky on gloves and will only wear fleece. Same with hats, I don't like them, so that's another idea out.