The secret to smooth ribbing. Drop-shoulder sweater.
Hello friends,
Last week while knitting a new drop-shoulder sweater (still nameless) I decided to try a technique I’d learned a long time ago but had never really given it a chance.
When knitting a top-down garment, we typically switch to smaller needles for the ribbed edge. However, this often results in a slightly bumpy transition from the main part of the garment to the ribbing. I know many of us have faced this issue.
But this time, I experimented by adding an extra round in stockinette stitch with the smaller needles before starting the ribbing.
And let me tell you, I was pleasantly surprised by the result! The transition is much smoother. It’s a tiny detail, but it creates a really polished look.
I encourage you to give this technique a try on your next top-down project. You might be surprised by the difference it makes!
Knitting patterns often leave us to fill in the gaps, which can be both exciting and frustrating. That's why I love sharing these small discoveries – it feels like we're all in this together!
If you’re curious to see this technique in action, Roxanne Richardson has a great video demonstrating it.
We knitters love to experiment and learn from each other, and I hope this tip will be helpful.
📔 Pattern of the week: Lucky us! Talented designer Veronica Martini has just released the super beginner-friendly Sofia Cardigan pattern.
I've taken a look at the pattern, and here's why you'll love it:
Crystal clear instructions: The pattern is easy to follow, without any confusing details.
Perfect for beginners: This is a great first cardigan project.
Simple stitch pattern: It's worked back and forth in Garter stitch, with the sleeves knit in the round.
Easy raglan increases: The raglan increases are done with simple yarn overs, no complicated increases needed.
No tricky button band: Enjoy a hassle-free finishing process.
Quick and joyful knit: Knitted with DK weight yarn and 5mm (US 8) needles, this project promises to be a fun and satisfying experience.
🧶 Yarn spotlight: The Sofia Cardigan was knit using a beautiful yarn called The Baby Wool by We Are Knitters.
Yarn details:
Composition: 100% Baby Alpaca
Weight: 50g (1.8 oz) / 112m (122 yds) - DK weight
Recommended Needles: 5mm (US size 8)
Substitutions: Drops Lima or check out my free DK Weight Yarn Guide for alternatives.
While it's a bit on the pricier side, We Are Knitters often offers discounts - you can save up to 30% on some colors!
This luxurious yarn sparked my curiosity about baby alpaca fibers. They fall into a higher price range because of their fine diameter. This translates to wool that's super soft, warm, and pleasant to the touch.
Here's a fun fact: Baby alpaca doesn't actually come from baby alpacas! The term refers to the softness of the fiber, harvested from younger alpacas (typically under 2 years old) where the fibers are finer. As alpacas age, their fibers become coarser. (Material from armsofandes.com)
⭐ What's new in the Esenique world
I'm excited to share that I've finished the first sample of my basic drop-shoulder sweater! I used Drops Nepal for this cozy version. But I couldn't stop there! I’ve already started on a lighter option using Drops Air.
My husband, Alex, is absolutely in love with the Nepal version and has requested his own. I'm sharing the whole process on my Instagram Stories if you want to follow along.
I'm planning to start a test knit for all three versions in the next few weeks and would love for you to join me as a test knitter! I’ll send out more details soon.
❤️ I hope this Esenote was useful and inspiring.
Warm regards,
Julia Piro
Knitwear Designer & Esenotes Curator
P.S. Looking for even more inspiration? Follow me on Instagram or Facebook!
