When I do things I have a tendency of diving in and going full force. Set a goal and ahead! I also love research. Exploring the logistics of a project, are there new platforms, tools, or venues. During my early research of relaunching JahDoily Knits, I was waitlisted for a table at Knit City Vancouver. While the chances of getting a table were small, it was the perfect deadline. A tangible event to prepare for. Whether as a vendor or participant, it was a good time to reintroduce myself to the Vancouver fibre community and make some connections. Knit City Vancouver’s September 26 – 28, 2025 dates provided a good timeline to work with.
In the final week before Knit City Vancouver, the likely hood of having a table was slim, and, while I could have made good use of one, there was little more I could do to prepare. This gave me some breathing room. I had already scaled back my publication dates for a better work/ family/ knitting balance. Files were with my Teck Editor, test knitters were finishing up Dreams of the West Coast, and I wanted to treat myself. Something knit for me, not as a sample. Not in sponsored yarn. Not for photography. Something just for me.
I dug through my stash. There they were, my prized yarn possession. Three skeins of Fleece Artist, Aran weight, 100% cashmere. The softest, hand-dyed yarn in rich autumn tones. By my estimates, just enough for a Diamonds In the Rough Cowl.
Now, this yarn had been in my stash for upwards of 10 years. My best guess would be north of 15 years. Only one had been caked – balled actually. The other two still held their original labels with price tags of $35 each. That, however, was not what I’d paid for them. Back then, I was a mature student at UBC, perhaps recently graduated and paying off loans. Scouring the local thrift stores and charity shops was a favourite past time. That is how I came to own these luxurious fibres.
Over the years I’ve tried to use them, hence one in a tidy ball. Nothing ever felt important enough. Special enough. Worthy. Now was the perfect time. This was the perfect project.
There was a very close game of yarn chicken, which I’ll call a tie. After unravelling the 3/4 I was able to bind off, along with the garter and last row of the chart, omitting that last chart row (essentially a wrong side row) and re-working the garter edge, there was a whopping 1-2 yards to spare. And that was with a very loose bind off.
The cowl is a delight to wear! It has helped me transition my favourite summer dress into fall. I may still unravel and re-knit it into something else but for now I’m enjoying my Cashmere Diamonds Cowl!
This goes to show that straying from a pattern’s called for gauge and yarn can yield beautiful results. The cashmere version followed the cast-on for the smaller size but at a much looser gauge. The result is a billowing cowl. Bulky enough to provide warmth but with a comfortable and elegant drape.
Is that not the beauty of knitting? It’s one of my favourite parts of being a pattern designer. Seeing how my designs created by others. From fibre choices to colour, these elements can make such a difference!
I encourage you to document your projects in Ravelry, linked to the pattern. I know other designer enjoy seeing your projects too!
JahDoily Knits 