Several of you asked about the modifications I made to the neighborly pattern. The only true change was to convert the pattern to a simple top-down sweater, knit in the round. This is only a knitting "recipe" so please refer to the original neighborly pattern for specifics as well as yardage, gauge and tips on knitting stripes. So here goes:
This pattern fits girls size 4-7 [sz 8-12 in brackets]
Using size US 8 needle cast in 80 stitches. Join for working in the round.
Set-up row: k 30, pm, k 10, pm, k 30, pm, k 10, pm (this last marker should be a different color to indicate beginning of next round)
Next row: Knit.
Row 1: knit to one stitch before marker, kfb, slip marker (sm), kfb. Do this 3 more times.
Row 2: Knit.
Repeat rows 1 & 2 eight [ten] more times.
Next round: knit front stitches, place next 30 [34] sleeve stitches on scrap yarn, knit across the back stitches, place second 30 [34] sleeve stitches on scrap yarn.
Work in stockinette for 8 rounds.
Next round: (k2, kfb)* repeat* to last stitches - about 126 [about 148] sts.
Lower Bodice: Knit 4 rounds with CC yarn. Switch to MC and K 2 rounds. Repeat 6 [9] times.
Hemline: Knit 8 rounds in garter stitch using CC. (makes 4 garter ridges) Bind off all stitches.
Armholes: Transfer the 30 [34] sleeve sts from waster yarn to 3 dpn's (or use magic loop). PM and join for working in the round. Work K1 P1 rib for 6 rounds. BO in pattern. Repeat for other armhole.
Neckline : Pick up 60 [70] stitches (pick up 3 sts for every 4 for the smaller sz). PM and join for working in the round. Work K1 P1 rib for 8 rounds. BO all sts in pattern. Secure a large decorative button to the neckline.
Weave in ends and block. That's it.
The neighborly pattern, as well as the beautiful sentiment behind it, was written by Jennifer Casa of JCasa Handmade. She is an all-around beautiful and gifted lady who has just received some tough news. You're sure to be inspired by her strength. Nothing can stop her now.
And speaking of beautiful and inspiring, I'd like to recommend two films that I was fortunate enough to re-watch this week (thank you Netflix). Young at Heart and Valentino: The Last Emperor. You will be inspired, uplifted, entertained and you will find yourself laughing and crying at the same time! And if you're like me, when they are done you will want to watch them again.
Have a beautiful weekend!
A very cute sweater!
Posted by: Karen | November 07, 2009 at 08:16 PM
I went to jennifer's blog via your link and read her story of her diagnosis. wow. she's pretty amazing. thanks for sharing all the links and for sharing your twist on the pattern. I love it so much! hope you had a great weekend. we had temps that hit the 70s! yeah!! i love indian summers, they are such a special treat. have a great new week!
Posted by: Lisa Q | November 08, 2009 at 07:02 PM
I visited jennifer's blog as well. what an inspiring story. how neighborly of you to share your mods.
Posted by: kristyn | November 09, 2009 at 01:41 PM
Thanks for the movie ideas. That sweater is so cute too!
Posted by: Jane | November 10, 2009 at 08:41 AM
This sweater is so sweet! My girls would love something like this!
Posted by: Hip Mountain Mama | November 10, 2009 at 09:56 PM
Thank you for posting the modifications. I love the little sleeves. I want to find a way to knit it for my boys.
Posted by: Imene | November 11, 2009 at 07:54 PM
Thank you for posting the modifications. I love the little sleeves. I want to find a way to knit it for my boys.
Posted by: Imene | November 11, 2009 at 07:54 PM
Dear Larissa,
I finally started to knit your pattern for my daughter. Take a look!
http://naturalinjapan.blogspot.com
and thanks for the inspiration! When I saw it, I knew immediately that I want to try it out! Thanks!
Posted by: Gabriele Kubo | March 10, 2010 at 07:38 PM