Back in December I posted about how I had started making a super chunky knit throw after seeing inspiring versions all over the internet. Not long after that post, I finished my very own blanket. It was pretty quick and easy to knit, and would be doable even for a beginner.

I used BigStitch Merino Wool Bumps, in light grey, and basically followed this pattern from Loopy Mango. It turned out big and fluffy and perfect for cuddling up under while lounging on the couch.

I really like having a knitting project to work on when I watch tv, so after I finished my throw I went looking for something to keep my hands busy. After combing through tons of patterns, I decided to make the Rochefort Chapeau from The Purl Bee. I’m using the recommended yarn, Blue Sky Alpacas’ Silk Alpaca, in “Night,” and “Plume,” and as you might expect from a yarn made from alpaca wool and silk, it’s soft and lovely. The stripes and lightweight yarn sold me on the design. I wanted a lightweight yarn in case spring was well on its way by the time I finished it. It would be a shame to finish a hat and then have it be too warm to wear it until next winter. And I had never knit stripes before, so it seemed like a good time to learn.

Stripes, it turns out, are no big deal. I was always afraid that you’d have to weave in yarn ends from every stripe, but there’s a trick for knitting stripes in the round (shown on the pattern page). I’m looking forward to finishing it and wearing it soon.