Comfort and Joy

I've been eyeballing the Creature Comforts Cardigan for quite some time. The oak leaf panel up the center back is pretty irresistible. I suppose the only reason I haven't knit it before now is, it falls into that grey area for me in the department of wearability. I see other people wearing this style on a very regular basis, and I'm pretty sure I look no more ridiculous than the next person walking around in a giant blanket-like garment, but I feel very self-conscious in this style clothing.   

Also, I hesitate to call this project a sweater, because, it's not. It's a shrug; there's absolutely nothing in the construction of this garment that warrants it be considered a legitimate cardigan. That's probably knit-picking...I digress. 

After a day-long test-run, I'm warming up to it and feeling a bit more comfortable with my appearance. Nobody seemed to stare at me like I had two heads, not that I saw; that's a start. And really, those oak leaves.... LOVE.  Besides, It's another neutral toned addition to my winter wardrobe. I will likely consult my much more fashion-forward little sister for pointers on pulling this off, but I'm not ripping it back to oblivion. 

Pattern: Creature Comforts Cardigan by Madelinetosh
Yarn: 5.5 balls Classic Elite Moorland
Needles: US size 7 and US size 8 Addi Click interchangeable
Notes: The pattern instructs the knitter to continue in pattern for "28 inches before binding off and joining. THIS IS WAY TOO SHORT! I am barely 5'2 and my "28 inches left me with a waist length shrug that pulled at the sides. I blocked to "33 to obtain the results photographed. Additionally, I intend to rip and re-knit my cuffs using US 5 needles in order to achieve a better fit.