Monday, May 28, 2007

too small

Well, I've finished the project but I'm having some trouble with the sizing. I have a 46" bust and I like things a bit generous, so I worked mine to be somewhere between an XL (to fit 46" bust) and a 2X (to fit 50" bust). Note that I got gauge according to the pattern and that I blocked successfully to the dimensions outlined on the schematic included with the pattern.
Problem 1.
ester me front

It doesn't come anywhere near meeting across my bust. So we tried it on my mum who's littler than me (44" bust). No chance of meeting on her either.
Ester Mum front

Problem 2.
ester me side

The allowance made for the arm hole is not sufficient for a "generously" proportioned upper arm. I had a suspicion that this might happen when I was knitting it but I ignored my concerns and trusted the pattern. Even Mum's arms, which aren't as flabby as mine, are still an overly snug fit.
Ester Mum side

Problem 3.
Ester me back

Just too damn tight across the back on me and not much better on Mum.
Ester Mum back


The pattern at one point notes that the length of the back piece should be equal to one quarter of the desired chest circumference. This doesn't work for me. I think that if I try to make this again, then I would need to a) cast on a slightly wider back piece and b) make the wider section much wider to make larger armholes which would also increase the coverage across the bust.
All is not lost though. One of my best friends is much littler than Mum or I and this colour would really suit her, so hopefully the Ester will fit her.

5 comments:

Jessicah said...

It's a shame Ester doesn't fit you, but glad you will be able to find her someone to keep warm. Mine is blocking atm but I'm not really sure how it's going to turn out- a suprise!

Anonymous said...

I love the colour of your Ester & you knit it perfectly. I am having the same issue with mine - it's just a little too small and looks weird on me. I'm trying to decide whether to keep it and say that 'it was supposed to be like that' or give it away to a smaller person.

nuttnbunny said...

hmmm... consistent size problem?

I've woven ends and will block this weekend. Report asap. Mine may also be a giftie for a smaller friend.

I've also been thinking about adding ribbing along the sleeve edge. I've been thinking about it since the beginning. Would like your perspectives.

nuttnbunny said...

Oh... forgot to add:

totally brilliant knitting Paisley!

Anonymous said...

second nuttnbunny's comment - it's beautiful!