Zeme (Earth) Sweater

I was browsing for patterns, yearning for something different for summer and I found this amazing crochet designer, Linda Skuja. She designs the most stunning garments that make the most of the technique (her work reminds me of Teva Durham, she leverages asymmetry), and I just thought, “I need to make something for ME, and I need a bit of a challenge”. So I got her book and I’m working on Zeme (Earth) Sweater!

I’m using a smaller hook than the pattern calls for because the finished sweater is pretty oversized (and make it harder for myself) – so CAVEAT, my tension is NOT matching the pattern and I’m screwing around with the pattern a little (see my Ravelry notes). I’m using Berroco Remix Light, which is super light and delicate, and it’s working up beautifully with a little bit of texture. I’ll probably only use 3 balls for the smallest size.

The pattern is well written, but I’m not a super advanced crocheter so I’ve had to take it slow, and there’s been some ripping back when the stitch count doesn’t add up. I’ve been making good use of locking stitch markers to keep track of where I am in the row. When I started I was feeling a little overwhelmed by the techniques in the pattern, but they really haven’t been a problem. I initially made a youtube playlist for the skills I was a bit iffy on, but the pattern has good written instructions and the only video I’ve ended up using was the first, the foundation single crochet (which I’ve honestly always needed a video to do, I can never remember how to do it without instructions). If you feel like you want to make something similar it but need more video support She has a different sweater she teaches in her Madara Domestika Sweater course.

Anyway, I’ve completed the yoke and I’m one ball in, so I’ll update you as I go!