Illicium is up today in the Twist Collecive! It has complete written instructions as well as complete stitch charts for all three medallion motifs, and a construction schematic with color suggestions and seaming strategy for 6 sizes:
- Cradle 542yds, 495m
- Infant 808 yds, 738m
- Porta Crib 1021 yds, 933m
- Stroller, 6 year old, 11 year old 1679yds, 1535m
- Small Adult (pictured)
7 balls #7853 Crimson (A)
6 balls #7801 Bleach (B)
5 balls #7879 Midnight Blue (C)
4 balls #7813 Ebony (D)
4 balls #7895 Aubergine (E)
- Adult 3460 yds, 3163m
My geeky soul was delighted with the reversibility of each motif: though they aren’t identical on either side. I’d flip my double pointed needles over when working on an octagon, and there would be another star anise, an even prettier one.
I love the name too, the shrub that grows star anise. As you read through the issue, you can find more spicy names and motifs – as well as gorgeous, interesting patterns.
When we weighted the afghan for shipping, it was just over 3 lbs. I watched all the Tutor Farm episodes while I worked on it, and several Backyardigans with K. I have a history of carpal tunnel syndrome, so I proceeded carefully. The editor actually phoned me to make sure we got a size for the photo shoot that would be big enough to look lovely wrapped around the model (and does it ever!) but not kill my hands. I set up a quota of knitting (a skein a day), and took Sundays off. I was also really good about going to the Y to swim and lift weights; and use good posture while knitting. Liberty wool is a light worsted, and on the smooth side, just right for avoiding trouble. I think getting my Celiac diagnosed (and never eating gluten on purpose) has really, really helped my wrists too, I haven’t worn my splints in 3 years.
Although I used a blocking station, I still had to touch up the corners with steam in the end. Probably because I pinned stacks of octagons, and basically eyeballed them…ahem.
We were hyper careful not to spill anything on it. K is holding an empty cup in this photo.
Both kids were saving money for something at the time, so I did pay them. Matt got bored and the sun was in his eyes, so he pretended to sleep. I was experimenting with light throughout the day to see what picked up the texture and that elusive red.
Everyone at the Twist Collective was lovely to work with!