Monday, December 3, 2007

Gauge is a Fickle Mistress

So, I decided to do Caliometry headbands for the teachers for the holidays this year. (Since the kids are at a Catholic school, I guess I can say Christmas without offending anyone.) I'm using this great handspun Shetland (I think) yarn my SIL gave me for Christmas last year from someone she knows who has sheep. So I follow the directions, cast on 120 on size 8s. A few hours later, I finish and the finished product is MAMMOTH. As is Shaquille O'Neal doesn't have a head big enough to wear this. OK, the gauge goddess is laughing at me, because I thought - I don't have to swatch this -- it's small. I'll know if its not coming out right. Slap me. The Harlot was right. Steph is very clear in Knitting Rules! that if you are cavalier or less than humble, the gauge goddess reaches down and slaps you upside the head.

So, I cast on again -- 120 stitches now on size 6 needles. We're looking closer, but again, I didn't swatch. Am I tempting fate? Maybe. But I will brave on. I have 17 days to get five of these done before school is out for Christmas.

Who wants to start the pool on whether I make it or wind up buying gift cards?

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

I'm rooting for you!