Many months ago, while searching for patterns on Ravelry, I discovered the most adorable sweater and knew I had to knit it for Beatrix. The pattern was included in a children’s book written and illustrated by a husband and wife team that wasn’t available yet, so I pre-ordered it and then anxiously awaited it’s release. The book, Phoebe’s Sweater, arrived a few weeks later and I was thrilled with every aspect of it.
But before I talk more about the book, I have to show you my version of Phoebe’s Sweater because I really really love it. I knit this using beautiful natural wool yarn from Mt. Airy Farm, here in Virginia.
The pattern calls for a bulky weight yarn and recommends Lamb’s Pride bulky, but I was thrilled that I was able to use my local yarn with perfect results. This sweater knit up so quickly and was so much fun to knit. As soon as I was finished I purchased yarn to knit one for Larkspur as well (her’s will be red!) I hope to finish hers for Christmas.
As I worked, I started to envision exactly what I wanted this little coat to be (and it really is like a coat-so thick and warm.) I decided that instead of round buttons I wanted toggles, although I didn’t find exactly what I hoped for. These work well, but I would have loved them in a bright fun color. (I ordered them from this U.S. button factory)
Beatrix thinks toggles are extra special and when she looks at her sweater she announces “Bea’s toggles!” excitedly.
I also decided not to add the hood (although Larkspur’s sweater will get one!) and opted for a simple garter stitch neck.
I am so pleased with how this turned out, and know that it is going to be worn all winter.
I do believe this is my favorite knit ever.
Is it not adorable?
Here are some photos of Phoebe’s Sweater with the hood. It’s really cute! The book includes the pattern for knitting the sweater (in sizes 2, 4, and 6, but it would be easy to size it up as well), along with a pattern for knitting a Phoebe Mouse (picture above right,) and a dress and little matching sweater for Phoebe! Joanna also has a group on Ravelry where you can get more information and great pattern suppport.
And as if all the great patterns aren’t enough, this is truly a beautiful picture book for children. The story itself is very sweet, and the illustrations are excellent.
Joanna also wrote a free unit study to go with the book. The topics covered by the study include: traditional folk music, bread baking, constellations, knitting, botany, and entomology and it was written with children ages 2 to 8 in mind. It sounds like fun!
p.s. The book can be purchased on Amazon, and also at Joanna’s Etsy Shop.
Annie Sullivan says
Love this sweater and would so enjoy having the chance to knit it for a neighbour’s wee girl , I have been knitting for many years , my great grandmother taught me the basic sts and i was in love with needles and yarn. Thank you for this chance to be part of this. 🙂
Cynthia Barte says
I just like your give away on Facebook. I would love to win. I want so much to make this sweater for my granddaughter but can afford to buy the book for the pattern and the yarn. I love to knit to give away gifts (last year I gave all my family members cowls (scarfs) I knnitted from yarn I was able to get at Goodwill so it didn’t cost very much. Everyone loved them so much.
I hope I win!!! Thanks
Michelle Scherer says
That is an adorable sweater jacket! I would love to make one for my daughter!