I decided to enter my shawl that I started in April, 2011, and finished in January, 2012 - the Ravelry KAL Around the World in 80 Days. It is a rather detailed shawl made with a scattering of beads, using a yarn I bought from Knit Picks.
When using handspun, I find that I am almost selective to the point of obsession.
I also am part of a group on Ravelry - to make 12 shawls in 2012. I am in the process of casting off number 10! Each one is different - only one makes use of some handspun yarn. All of rest are made with a huge variety of commerical yarn, mostly 100% wool or a wool/silk blend. I am pleased with the fact that I am ahead of the game in having 10 shawls done before September. I have learned a few new techniques along the way, and the wealth of lovely patterns amazes me.
I have found so many patterns that I want to try! So I think that I will continue to knit shawls even after I have finished my 12 shawls. First and foremost is that they can be any shape or size. I have always struggled with sweaters because they are so difficult to make to fit right. I still don't understand how other people manage it. I do have a sweater almost completed out of handspun yarn. And I am still wondering just how well it will fit when I finish it. And I just don't have the patience to take another class on knitting a sweater - I did that before, I learned a lot, but I am not happy with my finished project. At least with a shawl, scarf, mittens or hat, the finished project always fits just fine.
Here are pictures of the first 9 of my 12 shawls!
