Does the yarn fit the pattern?

#1

I’m trying to plan some tank tops for summer. I’m leaning towards the Shapely Tank from White Lie Designs. The yarn called for is Alpine Cotton DK. I don’t want to use this yarn.

The Pattern’s Gauge: 5 sts and 7 rows per 1 inch using size 6 needles.

The yarn I fell in love with is Reynolds Mandalay Yarn, a 100% silk yarn. I have to say, I don’t think I’ve ever seen 100% silk go for less than $10/skein.

Yarn’s Gauge: 16 stitches = 4"/size 7 needles.

My conundrum: I need someone to check my knitting math, and tell me if this yarn is the appropriate weight for this project, and what are my options in terms of trying to achieve gauge with this yarn. It looks like I can get away with knitting this yarn on a size 6 to get gauge, but I may have miscalculated. Someone please take pity on me, and check my math!

#2

:inlove: That would be beautiful! As for the gauge, It’s a different weight, but you might be able to make it work by using a smaller needle than the yarn calls for. That may change the drapey-ness of it too though. If you really want to use the yarn, you could always re-caculate based on your own gauge!

If you do get that yarn, I’d love to hear how it knits up. :wink:

#3

Yes, please tell us how it works out! :inlove:

#4

The thing about gauge is…what the pattern says is your first test…but what really matters is what you get when you knit the yarn!

I believe the shapely tank is pretty versatile and forgiving, though and I bet you will be fine!

#5

Thanks for twisting my arm! :roflhard:

I’m going to go for it with the Mandalay silk. I expect the drape will be a little more clingy, but I don’t mind that (and neither will the DH…:twisted: )

You know what else would be really fun to kick this pattern up a notch? Sari Silk yarn. Just the thought of it sparks shivers of delight, doesn’t it?