Our newest yarn arrival inspired me to start a new project, even though I have no business doing so. I decided that its sheepiness (that is a word, right?) required something snuggly around the neck. I selected Red Rock Canyon by Romi Hill.
I plan to post some tips and my progress on the blog for those who want to take on this project. It was originally a mystery knitalong, so it works nicely in pieces.
Tip 1: Printing
Be sure to only print the last part of the pdf that you download from Ravelry as the entire first part is divided into sections for the mystery knitalong. You don’t need the 20 some pages that are included in the pdf… I promise.
Tip 2: Cut out the chart key and tape it to the chart page that you are currently working on
The chart key is different. There are symbols that I haven’t seen used too frequently for some common stitches and you will want to be able to glance at it before starting each row. It is nice to have it close by… and with several pages of charts, I find it easier to have it cut out and simply move it from one page to the next as I go.
Tip 3: Read over the chart and chart key carefully
Two pitfalls that got me early on in this pattern. First, the charts are not done in a standard way. For example, while a purl stitch is usually represented by one symbol and worked as a purl on the right and a KNIT on the wrong side rows, Romi has charted each row as if it is the right side row. So viewing the chart as a whole is not helpful as it does not visually represent what you are creating. A purl stitch is represented by the same symbol whether it is the right side or the wrong side. If you are an experienced lace chart knitter, this might throw you. I actually think that for at least charts A through E, the written instructions might be less confusing. I started using post it notes to block all rows of the chart except the one that I was working on.
The other pitfall for me was the Pfbf and Kfbf (purl through the front, the back and the front). I read the chart too quickly and worked both as just Pfb and Kfb, which resulted in fewer stitches, obviously. This meant tearing an entire section out and starting again. Dumb mistake on my part but wanted to mention it since Kfb and Pfb are more common in a pattern.
Tip 4: Confirm correct # of stitches
After each chart, I would recommend counting stitches and making sure that you have the right number. The written instructions actually specify how many you should have after each section. The written instructions also tell you to place a marker for the center of the charts, which makes charts E onward much easier to follow. Had I checked my stitch count, I would have realized sooner that I was working the Pfbf and Kfbf incorrectly 🙁
Here’s my progress so far, although I plan to post another in a few days about changing colors and carrying the yarn up the side. Stay tuned!
If you are curious about the yarn that I am using, keep an eye on our blog and your email. This is a brand new yarn from a vendor new to the shop that we are launching super soon!
