A bit of introduction for my non-knitting readers: Elizabeth Zimmermann is a big deal. A huge deal. A true grande dame of knitting, particularly American knitting.
I purchased my first Elizabeth Zimmermann (EZ) knitting book maybe 10 (!) years ago? That purchase was quickly followed by another EZ book, though what I did with those purchases was mostly reading her reflections on life and knitting, instead of actually knitting any of her amazing, hearty patterns.
What kept me from attempting an EZ pattern for a decade, if not more? Two potential explanations come to mind. First, fear of taking on a true master's projects. Second, fear of taking on a knitting pattern that is more loose guidance than line-by-line patterning. Granted, I've created my own patterns, albeit simple patterns, but the prospect of truly having the training wheels off and taking on an EZ pattern? Man, oh man, more than a bit overwhelming.
Well, 2015 is the year I finally conquered an EZ pattern. This first attempt produced a beautiful result – a true Baby Surprise Jacket for baby Felix, who from the pictures below, clearly loves this handknit!
The pattern did cause some anxiety – it looked like nothing for some time, and for the life of me, I couldn't figure out how this one piece of knit fabric would turn into a cardigan. Thankfully, many have knit this path before me, so I had a lot of online guidance, including the invaluable Ravelry BSJ wiki.
Tip for those who attempt this amazingly inventive pattern – keep going! Yes, the fabric will look like nothing resembling an actual garment, but keep going! The pattern does work and does turn into a beautiful cardigan. More details follow the pictures below.
This "thing" turns into…
And with wonderfully cute puppy buttons:
Baby Surprise Jacket for Felix
Pattern: Baby Surprise Jacket by Elizabeth Zimmermann
Yarn: Shelridge Yarns Soft Touch DKW in Forest, approx. 1.1 skeins and in Light Green, 0.7 skeins
Needles: US 6 circular
Measurements: Post-blocking measurements of 11.5 inches from top to bottom, 9.5 inches wide while buttoned, 4-inch sleeve width, and 5-inch long sleeves. 4-inch wide neck opening while buttoned.
Additional Notes: Completed increases by picking up yarn between stitches from back to front and knitting into front of loop to make one. Made the buttonholes on left side.
Enjoy your sweater Felix!
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