My First KAL

This is a series of firsts for me:-

~ My first KAL ~

~ My first shawl ~

~ My first time knitting with 100% silk ~

~ My first garter tab start ~

I saw Deb's post about her new shawl and the KAL she had joined and I just knew that Dragonfly Wings was the shawl pattern I had been looking for.

A couple of years ago I purchased this silk yarn - Blea in Mexico colourway, by Nimu Yarns and I have to admit to being slightly reluctant to start using it, as it is rather special and I didn't want to spoil it.  I took the plunge and joined the KAL immediately before I could get cold feet and started knitting straightaway.

 The pattern starts with the ingenious garter tab cast on, something new to me.  I found this video very helpful.

 I had several false starts, another first!  I just wasn't happy with the tension, it seemed too loose, so I frogged it a few times.  Then I wasn't happy with the centre increases - frogged again!  I think I've got it now or at least this is the best I can do!

I'm hoping that it will smooth out once blocked, but I'm getting way, way ahead of myself there!  I am a slow knitter and I won't be working on this every day.  The KAL will probably be over by the time I block my shawl, but I am okay with that.  I think the most important part of this is to enjoy it and to admire everyone else's shawls.  I've already got my eye on Cloud Illusion and Sweet Dreams ...

Getting carried away again! :)