Team USA Hat Drive Wrap-up!

by : KristenJBW
Hi everyone!

So, I am sure many of you have been dying to know the final outcome of the Team USA Hat drive! We received our last few hats shortly after the new year and set about to sorting and counting them. All in all we received about 285 hats from generous knitter's across the country.

As we received hats, we posted photos throughout the process on Facebook. In case you missed some of those, check out the album we created there. It shows of many of the beautiful hats we received!

Here are some of those awesome hats, up close! We received so many, we began collecting them in large boxes until we could sort them all and prepare them for shipping. So many extremely creative hats were sent! We loved seen them all!



Some of them arrived with cute tags attached and special messages to the athletes! We loved reading each of these as they arrived!



Some of us couldn't resist trying on some of the hats...you know, just so we knew they would fit. :)




Some hats were knit and crocheted by our local retail customers and were hand delivered. When we could, we asked them to proudly pose with their hats. :)



Erika, who handles all of our returns as well as opens the mail each day, often was the first to see the hats as they came in. She loved getting to be the first one to see and feel them!


Once we had received all of the hats and tallied them up, we decided to take a few group photos in the yarn hot tub just before we shipped them off to the USSA! We all had a great time posing with the fantastic hats you all made!



Once we receive some photos back from the USSA of all of these lovely hats on some athletes, we'll be sure to post more photos. In the meantime, thank you so much for all of your hard work. We know the athletes are going to love receiving the hats you made. We also hope you've enjoyed seeing your hats on the blog!

Happy knitting and crocheting!
Kristen 
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Downton Abbey Mystery KAL Week #4 - Episode Guide

by : KristenJBW
Hi everyone!

Here is the key for episode 4 of Downton Abbey. This is the order the knitting should have been done in. Stitch counts for each section are also noted here. Keep in mind that your stitch counts might be an odd # if you have done the beginner lace in either of the past two weeks, even if you have done some of the intermediate clues. You should still be able to knit these clues, but don't be alarmed if your stitch count does not match what this says. These stitch counts are only valid if you have stuck with the beginner or the intermediate throughout your entire piece so far. If you've been mixing and matching you will most likely also have an odd # of sts at this point.

Also, please note that in the beginner section of Prompt #3, there is an extra increase for those who are working with an odd # of stitches. If you have an odd #, you need to do the beginner prompt here no matter what. Everyone should end Week 4 with the same # of stitches.

So here is the key for this week's clues:


 Prompt #1: When Daisy helps Alfred learn some important kitchen skills, knit the following:

 *Daisy reluctantly helps teach Alfred some key cooking skills to prepare for his exam.


 Beginner Section 1: Stockinette (2 rows)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, k to 1 st before marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.
                                                                                                
Row 2 (WS): k4, p to last 4 sts, k4

*69 sts between markers.


 Intermediate Section 2: Mock Rib (2 Rows)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, (p1, k1) repeat to 1 st before next marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 2 (WS): k4, p to last 4 sts, k4.

*70 sts between markers.

Prompt #2:  When Mrs. Hughes spills the beans on Anna's secret, knit the following:

 *Mr. Bates threatens to leave Downton, so Mrs. Hughes tells him what happened to Anna.


 Beginner Section 2: Stockinette (2 rows)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, k to 1 st before marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.
                                                                                                
Row 2 (WS): k4, p to last 4 sts, k4

*71 sts between markers.


 Intermediate Section 1: Mock Rib (2 rows)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, (k1, p1) repeat to last st before next marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 2 (WS): k4, p to last 4 sts, k4.

*72 sts between markers.



 Prompt #3: When Mr. Carson utters the words that were the namesake of the Lorna's Laces Limited Edition color for this month while talking to Mr. Molsley, knit the following:

*Mr. Carson tells Molsley that he will wait for his answer "with baited breath." See what we did there with the word play? Tee hee. We thought it was pretty funny. ;)

Beginner Section 3: Garter Stitch (2 rows)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, k 35, k1f&b, k to 1 st before next marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 2 (WS): knit

*74 sts between markers (from the extra increase.)


Intermediate Section 3: Garter Stitch (2 rows)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, k to 1 st before next marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 2 (WS): knit

*74 sts between markers


Ok, this is where we stop this week. Be sure to check in over on the Ravelry thread if you have questions!

Happy knitting!
Kristen


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Downton Abbey Mystery KAL Week #4

by : KristenJBW
Hi everyone! 

Welcome to week #4 of the Downton Abbey Mystery KAL! You will notice that this week is a much lighter knitting week than the last couple of weeks. This is primarily because we do have a large number of stitches on the needles at this point and I want to make sure you have plenty of time to do the knitting between weeks. 

Also, you'll notice I've left the stitch counts off of this week's clue. I had a few folks suggest that I only provide them on the Monday post in order to keep the air of mystery. Last week, it was way too easy to tell which order the clues go in, which doesn't really give anyone any reason to follow the show. I was just so worried after week two that I think I over-compensated a bit to make week 3 extra clear and in the process, made it too clear. I think I've found the balance this week. If you are heavily relying on the stitch counts, I do recommend you wait until tomorrow to start knitting this week's clue and just enjoy watching the show and taking notes on the prompts this evening, perhaps with a bit of wine in hand? :)

A few people were very concerned last week about running out of yarn. You should have started your new ball of yarn in Week 3. If you started it earlier then that, be sure to check your row gauge to make sure you are on target. Otherwise, if you started in week 3, you should be fine.

Last update, those knitting week 2, a lovely gal on Ravelry, Jackie Jones, has created charts for the patterns in week #2 and shared them with the group. If you would prefer to knit from a chart, please be sure to check those out here. 

Ok, on to the week #4 clues! Keep in mind that these are not in order so be sure to watch the show before you begin knitting (or at least wait to start until you are watching) to make sure you are knitting these in the correct order! Remember, I will post the key to these clues tomorrow morning, along with the stitch counts.

Prompt #1: When Mrs. Hughes spills the beans on Anna's secret, knit the following:

Beginner Section 1: Stockinette (2 rows)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, k to 1 st before marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.
                                                                                                
Row 2 (WS): k4, p to last 4 sts, k4


Intermediate Section 1: Mock Rib (2 rows)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, (k1, p1) repeat to last st before next marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 2 (WS): k4, p to last 4 sts, k4.



Prompt #2: When Daisy helps Alfred learn some important kitchen skills, knit the following:

Beginner Section 2: Stockinette (2 rows)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, k to 1 st before marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.
                                                                                                
Row 2 (WS): k4, p to last 4 sts, k4


Intermediate Section 2: Mock Rib (2 Rows)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, (p1, k1) repeat to 1 st before next marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 2 (WS): k4, p to last 4 sts, k4.



Prompt #3: When Mr. Carson utters the words that were the namesake of the Lorna's Laces Limited Edition color for this month while talking to Mr. Molsley, knit the following:

Beginner Section 3: Garter Stitch (2 rows)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, k 35, k1f&b, k to 1 st before next marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 2 (WS): knit


Intermediate Section 3: Garter Stitch (2 rows)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, k to 1 st before next marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 2 (WS): knit

Ok, that is it for Week #4. Happy knitting everyone!
Kristen


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Downton Abbey Mystery KAL Week #3 - Episode Guide

by : KristenJBW
Hi everyone,

So like last week, the prompts are in order. These are the actual events that inspired the clues. I hope the knitting this week went more smoothly than the last. Please let me know if you have any questions!

 Clue #1: When Rose is rescued from an embarrassing situation, do the following:

 **Rose was saved (much to the chagrin of the Crowley family in attendance) by the suave jazz singer Jack Ross when her dance partner, who was quite drunk and rowdy, fled the dance floor to empty his stomach.

Beginner: Stockinette (4 rows)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, k to 1 st before marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.
                                                                                                
Row 2 (WS): k4, p to last 4 sts, k4

*repeat rows 1 & 2 once more. If you finished the week 2 clue with 57 sts instead of 55 sts, do not do the increases on the second repeat of Row 1 of the pattern. (59 sts between markers)


Intermediate: Mock Rib (4 rows)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, (k1, p1) repeat to last st before next marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 2 (WS): k4, p to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 3 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, (p1, k1) repeat to 1 st before next marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 4 (WS): k4, p to last 4 sts, k4.

*You should now have 60 sts in between markers.


Clue #2: When Mary receives a surprising request, from a certain gentleman, knit the following:

 **Mary receives a marriage proposal from Lord Gillingham. Not like we didn't see it coming or anything since he was obviously smitten with her. Too bad it came so soon after Matthews death. He seems like a nice guy.

Beginner: Reverse Angle Mesh Lace (4 rows)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, (yo, ssk) repeat to last stitch before marker, yo, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 2 (WS): k4, p to last 4 sts, k4.  

*Repeat Rows 1 & 2 one more time. (63 sts between markers)  **Stitch counts updated on 1/20**

Note: Like last week, after the first row, you may find that when you get to the last 2 sts before the marker, your only option is to ssk, but then you don't have a last stitch to increase into. On those rows, when you get to the last 2 sts, yo, ssk but don't drop off the sts, then knit into the front of the stitches (since you’ve already knit into the back). This doesn't increase, but it negates the decrease and maintains the pattern, similarly to last week’s mesh lace.


Intermediate: Loop Stitch (4 Rows)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, k to last st before next marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 2 (WS): k4, *(k1, sl 1 wyib) repeat to last 2 sts before next marker, k2; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

*Repeat Rows 1 & 2 once more. (64 sts between markers)



Clue #3: When Edith makes a risky decision, knit the following:

 **So Edith makes the decision to spend the night with Mr. Gregson. A risky choice given his impending absence and the lack of a ring on her finger...

Beginner: Reverse Angle Mesh Lace (4 rows)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, (yo, ssk) repeat to last stitch before marker, yo, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 2 (WS): k4, p to last 4 sts, k4.  

*Repeat Rows 1 & 2 one more time. (67 sts between markers)  **Stitch counts updated on 1/20**

Note: Some rows you may find that when you get to the last 2 sts before the marker, your only option is to ssk, but then you don't have a last stitch to increase into. On those rows, when you get to the last 2 sts, yo, ssk but don't drop off the sts, then knit into the front of the stitches (since you’ve already knit into the back). This doesn't increase, but it negates the decrease and maintains the pattern, similarly to last week’s mesh lace. 

Intermediate: Loop Stitch (4 rows)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, k to last st before next marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 2 (WS): k4, *(k1, sl 1 wyib) repeat to last 2 sts before next marker, k2; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.


*Repeat Rows 1 & 2 once more. (68 sts between markers)

Again, I am here to help if there is any confusion! Just let me know!

Happy Knitting,
Kristen

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Downton Abbey Mystery KAL Week #3

by : KristenJBW
Hello everyone! I hope you all are well! I know last week was frustrating for a lot of people and I have gone to great lengths to ensure that this week is better. A few things to note about this week's clues:

1) I've added stitch counts to the end of each section so that you can keep track of where you are at. The main reason I did not last week is because it would have given away the order in which you were to knit the clues. I've taken a bit of the guesswork out of where these clues happen in order to give you more direction. I hope this helps!

2) I've written everything line by line (except in instances where you are repeating the same two rows over and over.) This should help avoid any confusion about the increases and how to incorporate them into the stitch patterns.

3) Because each row is getting longer, you notice that I begin to break up the knitting a little more so you'll have fewer rows to knit each week, but there are more stitches to knit so it should even out a bit.

4) This week it is still recommended that you not start knitting until you watch DA or AFTER it airs. This is because the clues are specifically designed to coordinate with events in the show. That said, if you are not watching the show, it is advisable that you wait until the episode guide tomorrow morning.

Ok, here we go with Week #3! 

Clue #1: When Rose is rescued from an embarrassing situation, do the following:

Beginner: Stockinette (4 rows)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, k to 1 st before marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.
                                                                                                
Row 2 (WS): k4, p to last 4 sts, k4

*repeat rows 1 & 2 once more. If you finished the week 2 clue with 57 sts instead of 55 sts, do not do the increases on the second repeat of Row 1 of the pattern. (59 sts between markers)


Intermediate: Mock Rib (4 rows)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, (k1, p1) repeat to last st before next marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 2 (WS): k4, p to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 3 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, (p1, k1) repeat to 1 st before next marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 4 (WS): k4, p to last 4 sts, k4.

*You should now have 60 sts in between markers.


Clue #2: When Mary receives a surprising request, from a certain gentleman, knit the following:

Beginner: Reverse Angle Mesh Lace (4 rows)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, (yo, ssk) repeat to last stitch before marker, yo, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 2 (WS): k4, p to last 4 sts, k4.  

*Repeat Rows 1 & 2 one more time. (63 sts between markers)  **Stitch counts updated on 1/20**

Note: Like last week, after the first row, you may find that when you get to the last 2 sts before the marker, your only option is to ssk, but then you don't have a last stitch to increase into. On those rows, when you get to the last 2 sts, yo, ssk but don't drop off the sts, then knit into the front of the stitches (since you’ve already knit into the back). This doesn't increase, but it negates the decrease and maintains the pattern, similarly to last week’s mesh lace.


Intermediate: Loop Stitch (4 Rows)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, k to last st before next marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 2 (WS): k4, *(k1, sl 1 wyib) repeat to last 2 sts before next marker, k2; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

*Repeat Rows 1 & 2 once more. (64 sts between markers)



Clue #3: When Edith makes a risky decision, knit the following:

Beginner: Reverse Angle Mesh Lace (4 rows)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, (yo, ssk) repeat to last stitch before marker, yo, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 2 (WS): k4, p to last 4 sts, k4.  

*Repeat Rows 1 & 2 one more time. (67 sts between markers) **Stitch counts updated on 1/20**

Note: Some rows you may find that when you get to the last 2 sts before the marker, your only option is to ssk, but then you don't have a last stitch to increase into. On those rows, when you get to the last 2 sts, yo, ssk but don't drop off the sts, then knit into the front of the stitches (since you’ve already knit into the back). This doesn't increase, but it negates the decrease and maintains the pattern, similarly to last week’s mesh lace. 

Intermediate: Loop Stitch (4 rows)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, k to last st before next marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 2 (WS): k4, *(k1, sl 1 wyib) repeat to last 2 sts before next marker, k2; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.


*Repeat Rows 1 & 2 once more. (68 sts between markers)

Alright folks, this is then end of week 3. Although I am traveling again for work this weekend, (VK Live this time, yes, I wear a lot of hats at Jimmy Beans) I will most definitely be online tonight and tomorrow morning (Monday) for answering questions. Also, I've started a Clue #3 Thread in the Ravelry group for you all, so let the chatting begin! 

Happy knitting everyone!
Best,
Kristen

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Downton Abbey Mystery KAL Week #2 Episode Guide

by : KristenJBW
Please note: This post was edited on 1/14 for clarity in the intermediate sections. Please make sure you have the most recent version.

 Hi everyone! As promised, here is the key to the episode, clarifying the clues that are used in this section of the KAL. The directions for the knitting have not changed, but I have included them again here for your reference. Also, I realize I didn't include the Abbreviation Key in the initial post, so here it is now.

Abbreviations:
k- knit
p- purl
co- cast on
pm- place marker
sl m- slip marker
k1f&b- knit into the front and then the back of the same stitch. This creates 2 stitches where there was only 1 stitch before. (An increase.)
St(s)- stitch(es)
yo- yarn over
k2tog- knit next 2 sts together
sl 1- slip 1 stitch (without knitting it)
yf- yarn forward, bring the yarn forward to the front of your work
yb- yarn back, move yarn to back of work
psso- pass the slipped stitch over

p2tog- purl next 2 sts together

Prompt #1:

"When Branson suffers a social faux pas, knit one of the two options below:"

Explanation: In the sitting room before the dinner party, Branson calls the Duchess "Your Grace" instead of just Duchess. Lady Violet corrects him and let's him know the proper title. This visibly makes Branson feel more out of place and uncomfortable.

Simple Option: Moss Stitch (also known as Seed Stitch in American terms)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, (k1, p1) repeat from to 1 st before next marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4

Row 2 (WS): k4, (k1, p1) repeat to last 4 sts (lining up your sts so that you knit the purls and purl the knits from the previous row), k4

*repeat rows 1 & 2  three more times or until you have 34 sts between the markers. You may find that the increases are a bit tricky in this pattern. You may have a row or two where you have to do two knits in a row in order to be able to do the increases. This is fine as it will work out evenly in the next row.

Intermediate Option: Moss Slip Stitch

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, (sl 1 purlwise, k1) repeat to last stitch before marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4

Row 2 (WS): k4, * (yf, sl 1 purlwise, yb, k1) repeat to marker, sl m; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4

Row 3 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, (sl 1 purlwise, k1) repeat to last stitch before marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 4 (WS): k4, *k2, (yf, sl 1 purlwise, yb, k1) repeat to marker, sl m; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4

*Repeat Rows 1 - 4 until you have 34 sts between markers.

EDITED 1/14 for clarity.


Prompt #2:

"When Lady Mary gets back on the horse both physically and possibly metaphorically, knit one of the two options below:"

Explaination: Lady Mary agrees to go on a horseback ride with Lord Gillingham, a childhood acquaintance in what might possibly be her first ride since Matthew's death. There also seems to be a glimmer of a connection between them. Could it be the start of something more?


Simple Option: Easy Mesh Lace

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, (yo, k2tog) repeat to last stitch before marker, yo, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

*Note: Some rows you may find that when you get to the last 2 sts before the marker, your only option is to k2tog, but then you don't have a last stitch to increase into. On those rows, when you get to the last 2 sts, yo, k2tog but don't drop off the sts, then knit into the back. This doesn't increase, but it negates the decrease and maintains the pattern.

Row 2 (WS): k4, p to last 4 sts, k4.

*Repeat rows 1 & 2 three times more. 41 sts between markers. 


Intermediate Option: Rib Lace (Updated 1/15)

Row 1: k4, *k1f&b, k2, (yo, sl 1, k1, psso, k2) to last 3 sts before marker, yo, sl 1, k1, psso, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 2: k4, *p3, (yo, p2tog, p2) repeat to last st before marker, p1; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 3: k4, *k1f&b, k3, (yo, sl 1, k1, psso, k2) to last 4 sts before marker, yo, sl 1, k1, psso, k1, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 4: k4, *p4, (yo, p2tog, p2) repeat to last 2 sts before marker, p2; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 5: k4, *k1f&b, k4, (yo, sl 1, k1, psso, k2) to last 5 sts before marker, yo, sl 1, k1, psso, k2, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 6: k4, *p5, (yo, p2tog, p2) repeat to last 3 sts before marker, p3; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 7: k4, *k1f&b, k5, (yo, sl 1, k1, psso, k2) to last 6 sts before marker, yo, sl 1, k1, psso, k3, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 8: k4, *p6, (yo, p2tog, p2) repeat to last 4 sts before marker, p4; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

*42 sts between markers.


Added 1/15: Some folks, said a visual of this lace pattern would be helpful. Here you go!



EDITED 1/14 for clarity.


Prompt #3:

"When Mrs. Patmore has an "episode", repeat the instructions from Prompt #1 for the same number of rows."

Explaination: In the kitchen while cooking for the big dinner party, Mrs. Patmore appears overwhelmed and has what appears to be a panic attack while trying to manage all of the preparations. Daisy and Ivy joke that it might be a heart attack, but the doctor later confirms that it was just an anxiety attack. Poor Mrs. Patmore. 
Simple Option: Moss Stitch (also known as Seed Stitch in American terms)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, (k1, p1) repeat from to 1 st before next marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4

Row 2 (WS): k4, (k1, p1) repeat to last 4 sts (lining up your sts so that you knit the purls and purl the knits from the previous row), k4

*repeat rows 1 & 2  three more times or until you have 49 sts between the markers. You may find that the increases are a bit tricky in this pattern. You may have a row or two where you have to do two knits in a row in order to be able to do the increases. This is fine as it will work out evenly in the next row.

Intermediate Option: Moss Slip Stitch

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, (sl 1 purlwise, k1) repeat to last stitch before marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4

Row 2 (WS): k4, * (yf, sl 1 purlwise, yb, k1) repeat to marker, sl m; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4

Row 3 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, (sl 1 purlwise, k1) repeat to last stitch before marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 4 (WS): k4, *k2, (yf, sl 1 purlwise, yb, k1) repeat to marker, sl m; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4

*Repeat Rows 1 - 4 until you have 50 sts between markers.


Finishing Week 2: Everyone does this the following

K 6 rows in garter stitch (knit every row) with increases on the RS rows. Beginners will have 55 sts between markers and Intermediates will have 56 sts between markers.

Please let me know if you have any questions about these clues or the knitting. As I mentioned yesterday, I am currently out of town for work and will not be back into the office until Tuesday but I will try to get to every one of your questions then.

Happy knitting!
Kristen

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Downton Abbey Mystery KAL Week #2

by : KristenJBW
Please note: This post was edited on 1/14 for clarity in the intermediate sections. Please make sure you have the most recent version. Please see the Episode Guide post for all Stitch counts.

Hi everyone!

It's time for week 2! I hope you all are mostly caught up and ready! If not, that is totally ok. When you are ready you can either watch the episode again or just take notes tonight and knit this when you are ready. Actually, that is something you may want to do anyway with these clues. Chances are that this it more knitting than you can get done between each clue so you may want to watch for the events in the episode or make note of it so that you can go back and knit it later. 

I'll also be posting a key tomorrow morning, with these instructions again in case you missed anything.

So, here we go with week 2!

Week 2 Instructions: 

Prompt #1:

When Branson suffers a social faux pas, knit one of the two options below:

Simple Option: Moss Stitch (also known as Seed Stitch by us Americans)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, (k1, p1) repeat from to 1 st before next marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4

Row 2 (WS): k4, (k1, p1) repeat to last 4 sts (lining up your sts so that you knit the purls and purl the knits from the previous row), k4

*repeat rows 1 & 2 until you have 34 sts between the markers. You may find that the increases are a bit tricky in this pattern. You may have a row or two where you have to do two knits in a row in order to be able to do the increases. This is fine as it will work out evenly in the next row.

Intermediate Option: Moss Slip Stitch

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, (sl 1 purlwise, k1) repeat to last stitch before marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4

Row 2 (WS): k4, *(yf, sl 1 purlwise, yb, k1) repeat to marker, sl m; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4

Row 3 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, (sl 1 purlwise, k1) repeat to last stitch before marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 4 (WS): k4, *k2, (yf, sl 1 purlwise, yb, k1) repeat to marker, sl m; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4

*Repeat Rows 1 - 4 until you have 34 sts between markers.

EDITED 1/14 for clarity.


 Prompt #2:

When Lady Mary gets back on the horse both physically and possibly metaphorically, knit one of the two options below:


Simple Option: Easy Mesh Lace (Multiples of 2)

Row 1 (RS): k4, *k1f&b, (yo, k2tog) repeat to last stitch before marker, yo, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

*Note: Some rows you may find that when you get to the last 2 sts before the marker, your only option is to k2tog, but then you don't have a last stitch to increase into. On those rows, when you get to the last 2 sts, yo, k2tog but don't drop off the sts, then knit into the back. This doesn't increase, but it negates the decrease and maintains the pattern.

Row 2 (WS): k4, p to last 4 sts, k4.

*Repeat rows 1 & 2 three times more.


Intermediate Option: Rib Lace (Edited 1/15)

Row 1: k4, *k1f&b, k2, (yo, sl 1, k1, psso, k2) to last 3 sts before marker, yo, sl 1, k1, psso, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 2: k4, *p3, (yo, p2tog, p2) repeat to last st before marker, p1; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 3: k4, *k1f&b, k3, (yo, sl 1, k1, psso, k2) to last 4 sts before marker, yo, sl 1, k1, psso, k1, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 4: k4, *p4, (yo, p2tog, p2) repeat to last 2 sts before marker, p2; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 5: k4, *k1f&b, k4, (yo, sl 1, k1, psso, k2) to last 5 sts before marker, yo, sl 1, k1, psso, k2, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 6: k4, *p5, (yo, p2tog, p2) repeat to last 3 sts before marker, p3; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 7: k4, *k1f&b, k5, (yo, sl 1, k1, psso, k2) to last 6 sts before marker, yo, sl 1, k1, psso, k3, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 8: k4, *p6, (yo, p2tog, p2) repeat to last 4 sts before marker, p4; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

*42 sts between markers

Added 1/15: Some folks said a visual of this lace rib pattern would be helpful. Here you go!



EDITED 1/14 for clarity.


Prompt #3:

When Mrs. Patmore has an "episode", repeat the instructions from Prompt #1 for the same number of rows.


Finishing Week 2: Everyone does the following

K 6 rows in garter stitch (knit every row) with increases on the RS rows.

*Beginners will end with 55 sts between markers and Intermediates will have 56.


So that is it for the Week 2 instructions! It's a lot of knitting for 1 episode so just take your time, and mostly enjoy the episode. Of course, if you have questions, don't hesitate to ask. I encourage you all to wait until after the episode has aired as most questions will be answered for you in the episode or once you start knitting. Feel free to chat away in the Ravelry group as well.

Also, I will be at TNNA (a yearly knitting trade show) in San Diego for work all weekend and through Monday. I will try to get online and answer as many questions as possible in that time, but I may not get to everyone until I return to the office on Tuesday. Asking questions in the Ravelry group may turn up the answers you need from other participants to please try there first if your question is urgent. Thanks for understanding.

Happy knitting everyone!
Kristen

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Downton Abbey Mystery KAL 2014 - Week #1

by : KristenJBW
Hello everyone, and welcome to Clue # 1 of the DowntonAbbey Mystery KAL 2014! Thank you all so much for joining us for Season 4 of Downton, I am thrilled that we all get to be here together and have a little fun and adventure with it! 



For those of you joining us for the 2nd year in a row-- welcome back and thank you for being here again!! And those of you just joining us for the first time this year, thank you so much for being a part of this year's KAL. I hope you enjoy it! 

If you are brand new to the KAL and haven’t already read all about it on Ravelry or in our newsletter, I would encourage you to read through the Announcement Blog Post from last week that explains the format, materials needed, and other important details you might want to know. Then, once you have your yarn ready, jump back on over here and get ready to cast on!

Today’s clue is going to give you the instructions for casting on and knitting the first few rows of the shawl pattern. It will also take you into the set up for the rest of the KAL and will establish the increase pattern you will follow throughout the KAL. Next week, we’ll officially begin with the “game” in which the clues are prompted by specific events in the show. Hopefully starting the game with the second episode will give those of you who are still waiting on yarn a little time to catch up! So for this week you can cast on and then kick back, relax and enjoy the episode. It’s a good one!


Just as a reminder, here are the supplies you need for the KAL:
-2 Skeins of Lorna’s Laces Honor in “Bated Breath” -or- 550 yards of a DK weight yarn with plenty of drape.
-US 7- 40” or longer circular needles
-9 Stitch markers (If you don’t have any on hand, you can make some with contrasting scrap yarn or use paper clips or something MacGyver would use.)


Gauge: 
20 sts & 28 rows = 4” in Stockinette Stitch 

*Definitely do a gauge swatch if you aren't sure about Gauge. You can rip it out and re-use the yarn afterwards!


Abbreviations:
k- knit
p- purl
co- cast on
pm- place marker
sl m- slip marker
k1f&b- knit into the front and then the back of the same stitch. This creates 2 stitches where there was only 1 stitch before. (An increase.)
St(s)- stitch(es)


Directions:

CO 200 sts with a long tail cast on.

Knit in Garter Stitch (knit every row) for 7 rows.

Row 8: k4, p to last 4 sts, k4

First Increase Row: K4, pm, *k1f&b, k22, k1f&b, pm; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4.

*at this point you should have all 9 stitch markers placed throughout your work with the two on either end 4 stitches from the edge.

Next row: k4, sl m, p to last 4 sts slipping markers when you come to them, k4.

Now you’ve completed the first set of increases. You will knit the rest of the shawl in the following 2-row increase pattern while at the same time working the stitch patterns given throughout the KAL.


Increase pattern:

Row 1: k4, *sl m, k1f&b, k to 1 st before next marker, k1f&b; repeat from * to last 4 sts, sl m, k4.

Row 2: k4, p to last 4 sts slipping markers as needed, k4.

*Remember, you will be integrating the stitch patterns in with these increases once the game starts in Episode 2, so please feel free to knit a few more of the increase rows in plain stockinette (knit a row, purl a row while following the increases) to get comfortable with the rhythm of the pattern if you feel you need it. Another option is to cast on 20-30 sts, place a stitch marker right in them middle and practice the increases on a swatch first before casting on for the shawl. It’s entirely up to you.

And that’s it for week 1 folks! Easy peasy! I’ve started a chat thread for Week #1 in the JBW Group on Ravelry for you chat away and ask questions. I’ll be checking in there frequently to help. Hopefully those of you who are waiting on your yarn will be able to knit this up in no time and be ready for the first game clues next Sunday on 1/12!

Until then enjoy Episode 1 of Season 4 and as always -- Happy Knitting!

Kristen

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