Nine Women, One Sweater

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Zaz wrote

on Nov 8, 2007 11:51 AM

hello, kit looks even better than the model in the "corset", the model looks like she is a "hanger" in it. i now like corset wheareas before the staff photos i did not so much.

TFoz wrote

on Sep 15, 2007 12:13 PM

Dear Sandi,
Thank you for all your knitting wisdom! I never thought I could wear something like this corset, but now you've given me more information about how to make it work on me. Also, I'm so sorry to hear about your cat. We have two kitties and I dread the day when we have to make a similar decision. All the best,
Tricia

JulieC@3 wrote

on Aug 24, 2007 11:15 AM

Hi- Could you explain the concept and practice of ease? Negative and positive? I think positive is more intuitive, but I want to be sure I understand how to measure and choose a size correctly. Thanks! Julie

LoriP@3 wrote

on Aug 22, 2007 4:07 PM

Wow! That really brings home the idea that one size really doesn't fit all. If you're going to spend time and energy on making something by hand, might as well put in the extra effort customizing it to actually fit correctly! Thank you for illustrating and describing how to achieve a better fitting garment!

llaurask wrote

on Aug 22, 2007 9:17 AM

Would love some help on closing up the neckline a bit and also creating more ease in the upper arm.
Laura

SaraV wrote

on Aug 22, 2007 7:58 AM

You know, this just tells me that what we really need to know in your books and magazines when deciding what size to make and whether to make something at all is the measurements of the models in the pictures. Sure, it looks great on Model X, and you tell us "photo shows 34" size," sometimes. But if I don't know that the model wearing that sweater has a 30" bust measurement, it really doesn't tell me squat about how it really fits.

Sdimora wrote

on Aug 21, 2007 10:50 PM

Thank you, thank you and again thank you for taking the survey and then modeling the corset pullover on various people with running commentary on how to achieve a preferred fit. It is my greatest issue when I knit a project. The stitches and technique are secondary compared to customizing the proper fit for my short torso, larger bust, waist and hips. I look forward to the next installment on this issue. I think you all really have your finger on the pulse of what knitters need and want to know about. Again, thank you. Sue DiMora

LillianG wrote

on Aug 21, 2007 2:17 PM

Re the Fitted Knits book that someone mentioned- there's only 2 or 3 pages of how-to-fit info and most of the sweaters are raglans.

NancyN@5 wrote

on Aug 21, 2007 11:06 AM

The fact that this top needs extensive modifications to fit every single one of your models to me means that it is a poor design to begin with

Anne@2 wrote

on Aug 20, 2007 8:48 PM

So when are you going to tell us how to get the pics to show up? I thought the next Knitting Daily would say how to, but you didn't! Please, please, I want to see the pictures!

JaynaM wrote

on Aug 19, 2007 9:11 PM

Thanks for the 'corset' on real women. I like it much better now, and might actually knit it.

DinahD wrote

on Aug 19, 2007 5:40 PM

How does one access the gallery page with the photos?

PatriciaC@3 wrote

on Aug 19, 2007 12:27 PM

This is the most fabulous response I have EVER seen from a magazine soliciting suggestions. Truly, this is exactly what I had hoped to see, but thought it would never happen. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

NyW wrote

on Aug 18, 2007 12:27 PM

Thank you for putting that sweater on so many ladies! It is fabulous to see the way it fits so differently.

SbfhS wrote

on Aug 18, 2007 8:55 AM

It appears that you, along with a large part of the population, misuses the term petite. Petite is a height determination, not a width. You can be a plus size petite. Technically, in rtw sizing, it is for women 5'3

SbfhS wrote

on Aug 18, 2007 8:55 AM

It appears that you, along with a large part of the population, misuses the term petite. Petite is a height determination, not a width. You can be a plus size petite. Technically, in rtw sizing, it is for women 5'3" or shorter in height. Regular Missy is 5'5" and over. That leave those of us in the middle in no woman's land. :)

msee wrote

on Aug 18, 2007 7:37 AM

Am I the only person who can not view the pictures?

DeniseW wrote

on Aug 17, 2007 9:10 PM

I applaud Lynn G's suggestion of starting with a simpler pattern for first attempts at adjustments. For one thing, something less closely fitted would require fewer of them.

I realize a worsted-weight sweater would take less time to knit than a finer-gauge one, but in a DK yarn, if you didn't feel ready for short rows yet, you could just knit one section longer and ease in the extra fullness along the seam without it being noticeable. I have never tried this with a worsted weight, so I'm not sure whether it would work well enough. Does anyone have any information?

Anonymous wrote

on Aug 17, 2007 7:59 PM

Thanks for showing the corset
sweater in larger sizes it looks great on women of all sizes. I had no interest when I first saw the sweater on the model. Know I want to knit it. Marilyn Hansen

CarolC@6 wrote

on Aug 17, 2007 7:53 PM

Like a few other readers, I'm not seeing the photos. What do I need to do to be able to view them? I'm intrigued by all the posts!

Lynn G. wrote

on Aug 17, 2007 7:00 PM

This was a labor of love and much appreciated. The only criticism is that it seems like an odd pattern choice to use as a first demo for this idea of adjustments that are needed for various figures. I would love to see you do a very similar exercise for a relatively simple pattern: perhaps a roll-bottom basic pullover with either a crew neck or roll-edge turtle or mock turtle neck (the pattern could offer a choice of two necklines depending on the size of the wearer). Such a basic pattern, requiring only basic knitting skills, would allow you to discuss in more detail how to adjust for bust size (making the front larger than the back for full-busted women either with darts or actual number of stitches), how to adjust for torso and arm and body length, etc. Choosing such an unusual shaped pattern made it difficult for people to want to knit this particular example, and it requires quite a bit of skill. I think we need to walk ourselves, as a community, through an exercise that could be done in virtually any worsted weight yarn and that focused on the adjustments and not on a complex pattern. After making adjustments on a very simple pattern that is likely to flatter most figures, then we might feel more confident about being able to make these sorts of adjustments on a sweater that has a tighter gauge, a textured stitch, color changes, etc. But let's start very simple (KISS: Keep it Simple Stupid) until we feel smart enough to go on to bigger and better things (or, in my case, smaller and better!).

CarolB@7 wrote

on Aug 17, 2007 6:54 PM

Love KD! Loved all the photos of the corset sweater.

I would really love to see multiple photos of EACH project you print or post. From the original pattern photo (JUST ONE!) I had no idea that there were ties on the side!!!

MiriamJ wrote

on Aug 17, 2007 6:36 PM

Having just viewed the 9 models in the same sweater, and having read the customizations, one thought comes to mind. How do you know which customizations are appropriate for your own body and style preferences? Are there some general guidelines you can share?

BonnieM wrote

on Aug 17, 2007 6:14 PM

We can has more pleez?

MaggieP wrote

on Aug 17, 2007 4:08 PM

Excuse me .. your models range from 36" to 40"?? While that's very nice .. there's a whole WORLD of women out there in MUCH larger size with several recognizable body shapes. ALL of your models are skinny minnies .. I'd love to see this one somebody who measures 52 around like I do .. or even larger. This is a great start . but please think of the rest of us out here who buy the magazine and subscribe to this daily email.

GJabouri wrote

on Aug 17, 2007 1:47 PM

Hello all, while going through my emails from knitting sources I came across Lion Brand's newsletter. Apparently they have a new book out: "Fitted Knits". They have an excerpt on their website: http://cache.lionbrand.com/cgi-bin/lionbrand/displayCustomerProjects.fcgi?projectKey=36411&displayType=story

CarmenD wrote

on Aug 17, 2007 1:36 PM

This was so very interesting! Thanks a lot... In the future please include top-down ranglan sweaters which are easier to fit... we are still waiting for the bust darts...

LizW wrote

on Aug 17, 2007 1:17 PM

I would like to echo many of the thoughts above -- what a great idea, and what an illuminating article! I, too, wasn't interested in the Corset at all -- until I saw its features accentuated as designed.

One thing I'd like to mention, like Janet and Jane above I have had extensive experience with fitting for sewn garments, and occasionally I do make a sweater "muslin" -- using a loose T-shirt from the rag bag!

While I'm still learning to do a good job of customizing knitwear, I would like to point out that one of the biggest advantages to making one's own garments IS the customization. I learned to sew and knit *because* I'm an "off" size. It doesn't matter what the standard pattern size is, to some extent -- what matters is knowing how your measurements differ from the standard. For example, I always need to shorten torso length by a generous inch and sleeve length by an inch and a half. This kind of adjustment makes it almost necessary to produce a muslin, to make sure it's right before spending nine months on a sweater! (I have small children and don't get much needle time....) So I heartily echo some of the thoughts above:

Know Thyself
Know Thy Style
Make a Muslin
Wear What You Love!!!!!

Catherine Mumby wrote

on Aug 17, 2007 11:38 AM

Thank you, Sandi, for the excellent report on the different fits of the Corset Pullover. I used to want to make that sweater, but now I don't want to go anywhere near it! With so many fitting adjustments for all but one of the sizes,(and the fact that you didn't appear to like the neckline of the sweater at all),it just seems like it's one of those projects that would be more "pest" than "pleasure". I like my knitting projects to be 'happy' ones! Ones that I can't wait to stop everything else I'm doing to work on. I don't want to think of my darling knitting basket as some sort of yarn-infused Rubik's cube, waiting for some enlightened moment by me to figure out how to put 50 precious, brain twisting hours into knitting a sweater that has a higher than average probability of looking like crap on me when it's done. No thanks. I adore most of Robin Melanson's projects, but this one is a definite MISS for me. (But your article was still great and I am keeping it for general future "fitting tips") Catherine

Linda@3 wrote

on Aug 17, 2007 10:48 AM

This is very helpful and I hope you continue this feature. It is also a great illustration of how fit is affected by factors other than just bust measurement, and how hard it is to know how a garment will look until you try it on. It would be great to see an article explaining how to compare your measurements with pattern schematics to determine how the pattern should be altered.

JessicaC@2 wrote

on Aug 17, 2007 10:41 AM

i'd like to see the origami cardi, notre dame and josephine

Meeb wrote

on Aug 17, 2007 10:18 AM

i dunno if i can mention another publisher's product here...but the Threads artical on fitting FLATTERING knits for larger women was reprinted in Handknitting Techniques from Threads ISBN 1-56158-012-0 ... i believe the book is now out of print, but it has a 5 star rating and reviews on amazon and shows availablity from several amazon sellers.

Deborah Newton wrote the original artical published in the August 1988 issue "Fashion Doesn't Stop at 40 Inches: The key is fit, and the handknitter's secret is a fabric mock-up." great information for whatever size you happen to be knitting for, and all the other reprinted articals are really useful, too.

nobody, no matter what their size, is going to get a custom fit in their clothing - knitted, sewn or store bought - without work and understanding. the heck with the bust size... get a tape measure and use it to tell the truth, figure out how much ease YOU want, and then compare those measurements to the measurements on the parts of schematic drawing. from here you can figure out what basic size to start with, and where you're going to need to modify things. exactly how to make those changes will vary from pattern to pattern. and do the gauge swatch. (bleah, but necessary) if you just follow a pattern, you're going to get a "ready to wear" fit, unless you're happenstancedly bertha's body double.

it's great to see the same sweater on so many different bodies. a super illustration of the point made by several people that it's all about SHAPE not size.

Linda@3 wrote

on Aug 17, 2007 10:14 AM

This is very helpful and I hope you continue this feature. It is also a great illustration of how fit is affected by factors other than just bust measurement, and how hard it is to know how a garment will look until you try it on. It would be great to see an article explaining how to compare your measurements with pattern schematics to determine how the pattern should be altered.

Linda@3 wrote

on Aug 17, 2007 10:13 AM

This is very helpful and I hope you continue this feature. It is also a great illustration of how fit is affected by factors other than just bust measurement, and how hard it is to know how a garment will look until you try it on. It would be great to see an article explaining how to compare your measurements with pattern schematics to determine how the pattern should be altered.

MichelleD@3 wrote

on Aug 17, 2007 9:54 AM

I really appreciate all your work with this article. Not only is it great to see how this single garment looks different on all these women, but the comments about better fitting and styling for each size were really insightful and helpful! Wow, you need to do a full length article for the magazine on this topic, or even a series. I think this information is so helpful to knitters/crocheters of all sizes. Thanks a lot!

PhyllisD wrote

on Aug 17, 2007 9:42 AM

The Corset Sweater gallery was mot interesting. I assume from the name of the design that it was meant to show a little cleavage, though many of your models chose to wear something under their sweaters. Fir the large of bust getting the right fit without revealing too much is a chancy game. Would measuring the bra one intends to wear with this garment help insure an appropriate fit? Also what is "negative ease"? I have never hear this term, even after a lifetime of sewing and knitting. Finally, I'm not clear about the strategy involved when you recommended shortening the sleeves. What advantage does this have? As a person with long arms, I dislike sleeves that hit midway on the forearm. I'm always tugging them down, probably a habit developed from never having sleeves quite long enough. If one is long-armed, tall, and big-busted, and the sweater is short, what is the best sleeve length?

Meeb wrote

on Aug 17, 2007 9:37 AM

if i can't see something i know is there, it's usually some security thing on my computer that's blocking it...look at your filters and blockers.

OverYonderField wrote

on Aug 17, 2007 8:24 AM

OK, but the trick is to anticipate the adjustments before knitting the garment. I'd appreciate more in-depth fitting suggestions beyond using the measurements from a sweater I already have -- as we see, different sweaters fit differently.

Anne@2 wrote

on Aug 17, 2007 7:46 AM

Nope, no pics. Wa-a-a-a-h! What's wrong ?@*&$!

ElizabethS@4 wrote

on Aug 17, 2007 6:44 AM

Each of your "corset models" required a narrower central panel. Perhaps rather than using a model, graph paper or some meaningless group of measurements designers should take note of these models. Obviously, what looks good in a photograph, on a stationary model, does NOT do well on real people. Please, designers, start thinking! The majority of women in this country are over size 14, we don't need to see a sweater displayed on a 0 size model - it's meaningless.

TerriK wrote

on Aug 17, 2007 2:45 AM

I vote to see the Lutea Lace Shell on a real life model. Please? :o) So....why couldn't you use real life models for the photo shoots for IKs in the first place. One of our Australian knitting mags ('Yarn' magazine) does this and it's brilliant. Thanks!

SaraJ wrote

on Aug 17, 2007 1:31 AM

Oh, I had a link to a tute for custom-fitting sweaters on someone's knitting blog, deep in the comments of a recent KD. She used machine-knit fabric, to replicate the shape of a sweater that fit her nicely, in the way that people earlier in the comments talk about muslin and knit fabric for doing what they talk about.

Oh, and I vote for the Garter Pup. How can I put this, in a delicate way, so as to spare the photo pooch's feelings - in a more . . . um . . . Fluffy canine breed? Here, fluffy, fluffy! Here, Plush, plush, ample ample!

AnneW@4 wrote

on Aug 17, 2007 12:07 AM

First the bust darts and now the nine different photos. I've learned more in the last few weeks than in 30 years of knitting. This is truly a precious resource. Thank you.

MargaretM@3 wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 11:55 PM

I think that showing a variety of fits is on the right track, but I think that it isn't so much that people need to learn to customize patterns as that they need to learn to use the model's photo to predict what the same thing will look like on a different shape. (Not every garment is suitable for every figure type, even with adjustments.) Without knowing the model's waist, hips, and height in addition to the bust measurement, this is difficult. Even looking at the nine photos provided, it is clear that the issue with this sweater is the way torso length, bust and waist measurements combine.

DeniseW wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 11:13 PM

Thank you for putting so much time and effort into this. For those who don't have access to a sample to try on for fit: Try on something you do have that you can measure and compare with the measurements from the schematic. Something similar in weight and fiber content to the pattern is best, because that can affect how much ease you need, but if you don't have anything close, you can still learn some things about how measurements and fit relate to each other. To check out specific features such as the width and shape of a neckline, you can mark reference points with safety pins, masking tape, stick-on dots, whatever is available. A mock-up in knit yardage would give a clearer picture of how the particular pattern would fit, but if you don't have the time, material, or inclination, comparing something you have on hand to the pattern information will give you a good starting point.

SaraJ wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 11:01 PM

I reiterate that I KNOW patterns can't be for all shapes/sizes/frames/proportions/situations, etc., and that altering/customizing is GREAT, and I want to learn alot of that! I just want to explain how I feel, and my slightly rising concern, that the pattern sizes variety will remain in this insular vein of thought (re: original perceived incredulity re: provision of range of sizes of patterns per issue), as it feels to me, anyway. I'm just trying to explain how it is, for me; I hope I have not offended.

AND, I do not take for granted everything you have been and are doing, as a result of these great discussions, posts, content, etc. here on Knitting Daily! Thank you SO much for today's post; it's most excellent! If such is done with the next winter issue and on (or spring and on, if all samples for winter have already been knit), perhaps each could have a sample in TWO sizes, so more types of "bodies" could be shown. That said, if that's not doable, what you've done here today is magnificently wonderful and, I think, a marvelous and new step in responding to the needs of your readers!!! THANK you from the bottom of my heart.

SaraJ wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 11:00 PM

In plainer terms, regardless of per-pattern shape/frame icon info perhaps added as a new feature, regardless of a new column or two showcasing patterns shown on various bodies, and/or one like I suggested the other day which would fit well with the above column . . . . regardless of tutorial/instructional/helpful fitting info, especially guidelines like you refer to about sleeve length balancing bust, etc . . . . regardless of all that, and all THAT is GREAT stuff . . . . if, in the end, after all that, there is little to no change in the size ranges, in the quantity provided for both ends of the range (for me, in particular, the plus end) . . . . . it would feel as though I am still a "fringe", or "specialty" class of knitter, a sideline, a . . . well, speak when you're spoken to, kind of situation, (not literally, but as an analogy.) I'm not explaining this well, but seeing how . . . incredulous y'all there in your offices were about, wait, we thought we DID provide enough of x, y, z . . . it would feel to me like you would still fall into that thinking, and that would feel . . . excluding, it would feel . . .exclusive.

SaraJ wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 10:59 PM

As we know from these discussions, size, shape, and frame are often independent factors, so I know that is not the only factor, but since sizing is the main thing used in the garment industry . . . .

It would be a TANGIBLE message, and demonstration, to knitters that you ARE committed to making sure that, for the money we pay for the magazine, that there are an increased quantity of patterns that are in the ballpark, for us. A much safer-feeling place from which to take on the task of making some customizations, alterations.

I'm not asking for all, I'm just saying that I fear this issue may or could be sidelines or neglected.

I'm not trying to start up the whole thing on that, again, though, but explain how I feel about it.

SaraJ wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 10:58 PM

While I agree on most of the suggestions on offering customizing info/lessons/guidelines/tutorials, etc. . . . I am concerned that things will lapse to the, we provide a good range of sizes, and they can just add customizing the size down a couple from the smallest size, or up 3, 4, 5, etc. sizes to the list of customizations they want to do to fit the pattern to them . . . . . Now, I can see where I'll eventually get to where that may be de riguer for me, a long ways off . . . . but . . . if that's so, then why provide a range of sizes at all? Just one would do, and everyone customize! I know that's not what is meant, though . . . but I fear that with all the great customization info, discussion, etc., that there will be little to no change as far as increasing the number and variety of patterns per issue easily (easily as far as, one isn't already starting with some potentially intimidating work in the way of resizing) utilized by knitters who can knit the techniques in that pattern . . . for both ends of the sizing range.

JulieW wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 9:34 PM

I love that you did this! MORE, please!

LauraS wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 8:48 PM

Thank you so much for the time and energy that went into this post. I think I learned more from these pictures and comments about knitting and garment fit than I have in a very, very long time!

Marcy wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 8:26 PM

Great feature! As a 40, it was greatly helpful to see the different shapes and those closer to mine!! Would love to see the summer tops, espeially the Josephine, tuxedo and the other sleeveless one.
thanks for your hard work,
marcy

Hedgehog wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 8:16 PM

Absolutely brill idea--it's so hard for a lot of knitters/sewers to picture a garment

LisaD@2 wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 8:13 PM

The gallery photos and modification ideas are fascinating! After knitting a few ill fitting sweaters, I learned that I can't just knit a pattern blindly, and be pleased with the results. I have to measure, try on if possible, sometimes redo, and make decisions about each step as I'm knitting. Many knitting books and individual patterns (including those in IK) have knitalongs on the web where you can see the same sweater being knitted by a variety of women. They write about their problems, modifications, and show the finished item being worn. These are very helpful to me. There are also many excellent knitting forums and blogs. Now that I have more knowledge and experience, I have finally ended up with some wearable and flattering tops. I'm still learning, and enjoying this site and all the comments, too.

PaulaM@2 wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 7:29 PM

Loved seeing the sweater on all the different lovely staffers and the commentary is very helpful. Please do this again... and again.... and again! :-)

CharleneM wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 7:07 PM

Sandi,Thank you, Thank you, Thank you! This was so great. It really helps to see how it fits on everyday shapes. Its quite encouraging to say the least. A few alterations here and there and it may just work for most of us thanks again.

JillH wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 6:51 PM

The corset gallery was fascinating, thank you. But how do you know what alterations to make if you haven't got a completed garment to try on but you're contemplating making a sweater?

Cath.tucker wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 6:20 PM

I didn't think much of the pattern until I saw it on some more richly endowed models -- people who look more like me! The "complimentary fit" and adjustments were very helpful. More specific instructions on how to raise or narrow the neckline would help. Working from the top down would allow trying it on & adjusting as you go. Side to side-knit center panels would help in making adjustments, too. The standard measurements aren't enough when "tailoring" a garment to your shape. You need shoulder width (sleeve seam to neck base), bust point-to-point for dart placement, front shoulder to waist and back shoulder-to-waist to compensate for short-waisted combined w/ DD bust!! Good luck with your dart instructions!

KerrieJ@2 wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 5:41 PM

Sandi - Thank you for taking the time to 'size' this piece for us! Seeing the corset on a variety of REAL WOMEN SHAPES truly places the garment in perspective. While I am sure it is time consuming, it would be nice to see this more often.

FelicityE wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 5:16 PM

Wow! Thank you for this. That has to be one of the most informative and useful knitting articles I've ever read! But..but...how would you know what adjustments to make until you'd knit the entire thing and tried it on?

knittingbox wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 5:02 PM

Thanks so much for showing different women in it. BTW, did every woman need to narrow the neckline? That was one thing I didn't get -- why everyone thought the neckline was too wide. Thanks, again!

Tanifaa wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 3:41 PM

Thank you so much for this! I have pulled away from sweaters lately because of my frustration over the end sweater frequently looking ill-fitted. All of your suggestions for the different models helped me see that I was just being lame and really need to custom fit the pattern for myself first (instead of just length and width, I mean all of the design details, neck, etc.) I would love to see the Blouson on different models. I have been attracted to this sweater but figured you need to be a waif to pull it off.

SusanE@3 wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 3:22 PM

Thank you so very much for the comments accompanying the helpful photos of the brave and daring real models at IP. Two of the young ladies for whom I used to sew formal wear (pre-knitting days)were generously endowed in the bust AND upper abdominal areas. After taking numerous courses on how to alter patterns I had some success with women fabrics. Having entered the realm of knitting via flat shapes only, I was having trouble thinking in 3-D, i.e., body shaping as you knit. Your post has helped me so much to problem solve BEFORE beginning and also encourages me to ask questions of veteran knitters. A picture is said to be worth a thousand words, but technical explanations are essential to the hands-on craftsperson.

KerriM wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 3:20 PM

I just had to give all you gals a huge thank you! This is hands down the best post so far. Honestly, when the original pattern pic was posted I had no interest in knitting this, it was completely unflattering on the model but it has now been added to my to do list.
At least this was a very visual lesson on why even a particular bust measurement doesn't fit everyone with that measurement. Maybe all us knitters need to invest in some sewing classes so we can sew a mock up - maybe in a jersey knit to better mimic knitting - before we venture into a time and labour intensive project? It is a letdown to work so hard and have another sweater that will sit in the back of your closet because you didnt realize how a pattern would fit your form.

Anonymous wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 3:13 PM

Sandi, I love Knitting Daily! Have you thought about posts where knitters can ask questions or voice problems? Like....what do you do when you get to a knotted join in a skein? I have had some people say they just knit through it and others say they prfer to cut out the knot and weave in the ends. Other topics could be preferred methods of weaving in ends, etc. Thanks!

Procurement Quality EngineerA wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 2:34 PM

I want to add my voice to all the "Thank You!" votes that you received on this Gallery. I'm sure by now you have realized that the real problem is not "showing enough sizes for each pattern"; rather it is "understanding how to even approach customization". I'm investing $50 - $200 in a sweater, plus countless hours of work; of course I would like it to fit well. However, I don't want to make the sweater twice, or have to repeatedly rip out and modify. I would like to have some knowledge of how to do this from the beginning. Could you work through a class that offers customization on the Corset Top?
Thanks so much for Knitting Daily!! It's very refreshing!

Rose wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 2:29 PM

I didn't like the corset pullover when I first saw it, but after seeing it on some girls with curves I really like it. I'd love to see the Wheat-ear Cable Yoke or the Oriel Lace Blouse done the same way. Or any of the items from the summer issue really.

BarbaraB wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 2:28 PM

Good try, Sandi, with the 9 women, one sweater. However, I still have no idea what the sweater would look like on a large figure, say 45" bust. All the ladies in the photos look lovely and slim. from Barbara, Down Under.

ElisaS wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 2:27 PM

Oh thank you ! I love this pattern, but as I am a bit more busty than the model, I couldn't imagine how the corset will fit on me. Now I want to knit it now, but of course I have a lot of UFO... 10 I guess... but I'm working on it ;o)
I imagine that this weren't easy for you to do every time, but seeing the same pattern in at least two differents sizes is really helpfull !
Thank you for your daily news, it is always a pleasure !

AdrienneB wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 1:41 PM

Please do this with a style or two from every issue. This was so helpful. To me, that particular sweater looks much better with some negative ease. With my bustline, I never would have attempted that sweater, but it really helps to see it on a person, knowing the bust measurement. I am generally confused about exactly what the bust measurement on a pattern means. Is it the completed sweater, or the bust measurement it will fit with the presumed amount of ease, or exactly what?

AnnyR wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 1:22 PM

Sooooo useful! Love it! I would love to see this be an ongoing feature...perhaps even in the magazine. It would probably convince me to knit a lot more of the sweaters I too often think are meant for smaller sizes only. Great post, Sandi

AmberleeB wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 12:58 PM

First I want to say thank you for listening. I was so excited when your Fall issue came out I told my hubby and he brought it home from work with him as a surprise! I had it hot off the presses and there seem to be a few items I can make for my "ample" self. So thank you for that.

As for this Corset Pullover, I have to agree that it would be nice to see it on an actual ample individual. None of the ladies you have shown would come close to what I would consider "ample"...especially if I am going with the 2X and above crowd, like myself. I worry it would show a lot more cleavage, and I am not talented when it comes to trying to resize things for myself --- or knit them to fit me properly, so I probably wouldn't attempt it. Mostly do to fear of messing it up. :( Thanks for showing us how it looks on those lovely ladies though!

PattiO wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 12:36 PM

Ok I just read everyone's comments, and am compelled to comment again. I see a common theme here: customizing is NOT everyone's forte. Perhaps what we need is a simle patteern that we can learn to customize. How do I make a knit pattern fit ME? my bust, my hips, my length, my width? my unique shape? Seeing on the models what needs to be changed is a far cry from actually knowing how to do it, especially on a complex garment such as this. Right now I'm working my way through "Knitting from the top down" by Barbara Walker and she address's designing a garment to actually fit, so maybe we could do something like that here on Knitting Daily? I'm sure I'm not the only one who shys away from knitting a lovely sweater because we have been tramatized by our one attempt -- you know -- the sweater we couldn't get over our head? the one with the bust too tight and the hips too wide? one sleeve too long or too short? (lets not even talk about things like color -- what were we thinking when we bought that lime green variegated acrylic anyway???) :-)

VickieH wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 12:27 PM

I have to echo the thoughts above. What a great idea. I am always looking at the models and think, great but what will it look like one someone who is larger? It looks better, in my opinion, on the 36"-38" models (and therefore motivates me more to make it) than the original model.

What beautiful staff you have!

PattiO wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 12:18 PM

Ok I looked at the photos, and to be honest, I don't find it all that flattering except on the less "womanly" models. I would not make this for myself. But then I have yet to make a garment for myself that actually fits, so my comments are to be taken with the proverbial grain of salt!

LeAnnW wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 12:16 PM

I would love to see the Oriel lace sweater on several models. The corset cover is sweater I had passed by before but now I think it is a real possibility for me.

Tammy wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 12:06 PM

WOW!!! Spectacular post!!!! What a great frame of reference to see the sweater on all the different sizes. I had fallen in love with the pattern as soon as I saw it but did not think it would look good on me. But now, I think I'm going to knit it!

B.L wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 11:56 AM

Thank you for the Interweave Corset Gals. I had so many questions about how to make the top a better fit, I couldn't read fast enough. Seeing how the top fit on different people, and suggestions on making it fit better was so very helpful. Thanks, again.

Cowgirlknits wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 11:52 AM

I just looked at the Corset Girls and Wow! I have to say I thought the sweater in the magazine was ugly - it was unflattering and unappealing on the too small model.

If I'd seen one of the pictures in this post, I'd have made it back then in a heartbeat - Its been added to my maybe list now that I've seen it on someone closer to my own proportions.

Carol Dietz wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 11:52 AM

Wow! These photos are fantastic-this is just what we need to make sweaters that actually fit!! You guys are incredible.

Carol Dietz wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 11:51 AM

Wow! These photos are fantastic-this is just what we need to make sweaters that actually fit!! You guys are incredible.

JeanneM wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 11:39 AM

I would really like to see something with some 'good looks' that would look nice on an older woman. We are not necessarily large, just aware that many styles are plainly too youthful for us.

3 Grrrls Knit wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 11:39 AM

I am not seeing any pictures when I try to view this page. But I also see that I am alone in this problem because everyone else seems to be seeing pictures. Too bad, I have alway loved this pattern!

JeanneM wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 11:39 AM

I would really like to see something with some 'good looks' that would look nice on an older woman. We are not necessarily large, just aware that many styles are plainly too youthful for us.

JeanneM wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 11:34 AM

Nice to see the corset sweater modeled on different real people. Very interesting to see that it really didn't fit any of them very well without considerable alteration to the pattern. And you gals are all so Yound. No one looked over 40, definitely not over 50, and what about us over 60 and 70 knitters. Old Lady Cleavage is so gross. Help us out here.

HasmiF wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 11:27 AM

Seeing the sweater and reading the notes for each woman was invaluable. I've wanted to make it since it first appeared but was unsure about fit and whether I would like it. This has helped convince me to go ahead and to take the notes into consideration. Please pick a sweater or two from each issue and do the same. Also please add more measurements to each garments in the patterns. There are too few measurements shown on the schematics. Thanks for THE Best Knitting newsletter. You really rock!

Casey wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 11:23 AM

I normally do a search on Flickr and a Google search of blogs and bother the heck out of various people who've knit a certain pattern to see what they've done to make it work for them. You just inadvertantly prevented me from nagging a bunch of strangers! ^_^ Also, I think it's somewhat telling that for nearly every person, the same thing was noted: "widen the neck 'straps.'" Good note for when I finally get around to this pattern.

Tcdknits wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 11:21 AM

The gallery was absolutely amazing!!! This was very helpful, but how do we translate your very insightful comments without you in the room as we are deciding what we want to knit and exactly what size? How would I know to make the middle section narrower or the shoulders wider? Is there somewhere that gives you this info that I am not aware of? Not knowing these essential items and then knitting the sweater (which I love even more now with the pictures) I would have ended up with a nightmare, off to the Goodwill with some other sweaters I have knitted. This site is great and everyday I can't wait to read it. Keep it up.

KeturahY wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 11:02 AM

I needed this post to visualize the changes I can make to customize a sweater to fit me. I'm tall and long-waisted too, though I'm flat-chested. So the suggestions for Erin will probably work really well for me.

This post almost makes me want to rip out my Indian Summer (Leigh Radford) sweater and start over!! I'd love to make it longer and I haven't finished it yet, but I'm too lazy to rip it out a THIRD TIME!

ShaunaR wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 10:53 AM

A big thank you to all the wonderful ladies that tried on the corset, When I saw it on the model I thought it was fairly unatractive and not very flattering at all, but seeing it on more average sized ladies gives me a much better idea of the garment and I like it much better. I'm a fairly new knitter and don't have any experience on customizing patterns at all. Guess I need to get a book on the subject! Thanks again, Shauna

KelleyD wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 10:49 AM

Thanks so much for this article!

I am a courageous knitter, in that I rarely knit from other patterns, but regularly use them as inspiration.

This comparison of 10 bodies was fantastic, and helps to see how to make the adjustments necessary.

Mairwen wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 10:48 AM

Okay, so how do we figure this stuff out, looking at a pattern, without having a sample to try on?

Ceregier wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 10:46 AM

THis is an excellent idea!!! I would LOVE to see the Josephine top done this way as well as the Bonsai tunic. Having said that I can't actually see the photos - in theory though it's a fabulous idea and I'd love to see it done with one or 2 of the garments as each issue comes out - just with the sample, because I'm sure you don't have time to knit one in all sizes! By the way this is what I most like about Ravelry too :)

ChrissieM wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 10:39 AM

Thank you SO MUCH for this....it's great to see pictures of this sweater on so many different women with different shapes. I'd like to see the Josephine top from the summer issue on different women, too.

GJabouri wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 10:33 AM

Hi all - Thank you for showing the Corset on different-sized women! I really liked the pattern from the start (especially the sleeves), but was thinking that it would not look good on me. Now that I've seen it on real women I'm much more confident about making it. And thanks for reassuring me that I did not miss the bust dart tutorial. Thanks to all the models - this is such a great resource!

LynneE wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 10:29 AM

Mystery solved: when I turned off ad blocking, I was able to view the photos of the 9 corset gals.

KathleenR@2 wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 10:25 AM

I found it fascinating that in almost every example, including Bertha, the neckline was too wide.

This was a terrific exercise. More, please.

Kathleen

ShannonL wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 10:21 AM

This sweater is gorgeous! I am the beginning-est of newbie knitters (I am used to crochet), so I will have to work up to it, but I'm excited to learn!

mostitch1968 wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 10:19 AM

What a great idea!! I am so inspired to make this sweater now! Please do this again on any sweater! Question: I have a 43" bust and a narrow chest so if I make the closest size how do I narrow the center panel to make it more modest? and bring it up so there is minimal cleavage? Showing real women with different figures in the same sweater style and then commenting how to customize to their preferences could be the basis of wonderful book. It sure would help those of us who don't fit the norm - whatever that is!

Blue Robin Sue wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 10:19 AM

Seeing the diverse reactions within the KD community to the concept of alterations, I started wondering whether future patterns could, perhaps, be rated for fitting skill as well as knitting difficulty. The garments might be assigned a rating based on the number of ?critical fit points? such as neckline depth, shoulder width, sleeve or pattern placement, etc., and the overall rating would be accompanied by a list of the features that might require individualized attention. With that information we might be able to judge more accurately whether the pattern matches our particular combination of body contours and knitting skills. Thank you, and all the "corset girls", for a really informative posting.

KateT wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 10:18 AM

Good to see this garment on "real" women and very interesting that every single time you said the neck was too wide.

Davamunn wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 10:16 AM

Oh, you've really started something--it's a fabulous idea! It's as close as you can get to trying the garment on yourself. I would likely have less yarn in my stash.

Libraryhag wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 10:14 AM

This was so much fun. I really like seeing the garment on different figures and enjoyed your comments on adjustments. I would like to see this as a regular feature. Thanks, Jan

LisaS@3 wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 10:13 AM

Thank you for this great idea! I hope you can continue to do this with every issue. I'd be interested in seeing the Wheat-Ear Cable Yoke Sweater, Oriel Lace Sweater and Josephine Top from the Summer '07 issue.

MichaleC wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 10:11 AM

It's great to see this sweater on different people - kind of like getting together with a group of friends to try on clothes. Although reading the measurement is helpful, a group shot of the willing " models" would help me see the scale better. Hearing how each would alter the pattern is wonderful too. The idea of doing this with more designs has my full attention! Michale C in Seattle

Jan wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 10:07 AM

I think the Bella Blouse is a good candidate for another of these galleries. Thanks!

catmomnw wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 9:59 AM

Awesome idea! Love the gallery and seeing the garment on a variety of people. I'm not well endowned but have substantially wider shoulders than most women my size, so I have that challenge. This kind of comparison helped me realize this style really would not be the best for me and my "football shoulders." Thanks so much!

Pat wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 9:51 AM

Absolutely fascinating - especially the detailed comments that went with the photos. Fitting is a struggle for me. When I was young I was slender and strong. I coulf put anything on and look good in it. Now, I have to think carefully about every garment. If I put something on, I can (usually) instinctively know that it fits and flatters or that it doesn't. But I don't know the "why" of what works and doesn't so that I can translate it to a pattern that I can only see a flat photo of - worn by someone thitem fits and flatters that may not be my shape! I'd like more lessons. Are there any general rules that you can pass along, like in one of the comments you mentioned shortening the sleeve length to be closer to ending at the waiste to emphasize the curve of the waiste???? Thank you. I love Knitting Daily, or as my husband calls it "knitting hourly".

ArleenM wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 9:48 AM

It's a pretty sweater. However, the neckline is too wide & deep for me...I have narrow shoulders, a 38" bust, & I'm 4'9" tall. My husband would like it in the bedroom...but after all those hours of knitting I would want to wear it anytime.
asm

JaneR wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 9:45 AM

What everyone seems to desire passionately are patterns specificly to their own size, shape and ease preference. Although I have sewed for 48 years, only in the past five years did I develop a body that was not standard and am now struggling to understand how to adjust for my size peculiarities. Although the "knitting pattern" industry is struggling to set standards it has not spread to all writers, magazines, manufacturers etc. and in addition the task of writing a universal pattern to each knitter's satisfaction would require a software program of high complexity (I hope there is a knitting/computer geek working on this now.). So, even though we want to just buy a pattern that will magically fit us -- we need to accept the inevitable. Learn how to look at a pattern and learn how to interpert the pattern to our own measurements. Educate yourself by reading and experimenting (muslin and knit fabrics can be bought cheaply on sale). There are great books out there and classes you can take -- but they will fall under sewing and tailoring catagories. I suggest you find a local sewing/fitting/tailoring teacher and approach them for a private class for your knitting pattern. They will help you measure acurately and recognize the changes you need to make for your body shape. And of course we are holding our collective breathe waiting for the bust dart pdf!!! And yes do the fitting phots again and again -- for all the patterns -- obviously this is too much for the print magazine but that is why you are on line. And to all those knitters out there -- send in photos of the finished results on you BUT add the changes you made and why.

Susan@2 wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 9:42 AM

Thank You! This issue of your "Daily" shows the effort and thought you and the staff put into it, and is very, very helpful to a newer knitter like me who is confused by fit issues. The only thought I can add to the tons of comments is that I find many sweater patterns are constrained by stitch repeats, and the range between sizes is 4". It is hard to get just the right amount of ease in such patterns. I wonder, what do you do when you are between the sizes offered in a pattern?

Amy@2 wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 9:38 AM

When I saw the original picture of the sweater, I didn't like it at all. This isn't your model's fault--but I have to wonder at what the stylist (or whoever matches sweaters to models) was thinking. I'm on the very thin side, and I feel for that model--she doesn't look good in that sweater at all. I don't want to knit things that are just going to hang off of me in an unflattering way, as that sweater does her. It's important to showcase both the knits and the models to both's best advantage.

Although I'm still unlikely to knit the sweater, the additional pictures definitely show it off better; it's beautiful when presented well. (Perhaps you can pass on some suggestions to the IK photo shoot people?)

VirginiaM@2 wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 9:35 AM

I'm so glad that you shared the photos on other than the usual super-slim-small-busted model. My original thought when seeing this top - nope won't work for me - I'm too busty for that top. BUT THEN - you shared the pics on shapelier models. That changed my opinion. Now I just hope that you share the 'how to'. I'm new to knitting tops/sweaters - lets just say - never done it yet. But this is one that I would love to attempt.
Thanks
Virginia

CherylF@3 wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 9:29 AM

Thanks so much for the photos and comments showing so many women wearing the same item. Although the corset sweater does not appeal to me, I learned a lot and would like to see the same treatment applied to many different garments.

Yarnsnob wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 9:25 AM

I so enjoy finding Knitting Daily in my mailbox. Thanks to all the "corset girls" for sharing. A friend (my knitting protege) commented about the look of a sweater in the new fall issue. She said, "I like everything about it, except for the way these two cables finish at the neck." I happily shouted, "That's the beauty of knitting it yourself: YOU CAN CHANGE IT. You can change the color, the yarn, the size, various measurements, and the way those cables end. Make it your own!" With all the choices we have these days: fiber, color, texture, exciting designs, unconventional things, the possibilities are endless. What an exciting time to be a knitter!

Lili wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 9:22 AM

(rest of truncated post above) . . .especially the "wider shoulder strap" bit. Echoing other posters, how interesting that the neckline is too wide for everyone, no matter what their bust and armhole fit. In future issues of "Knits", maybe you could state MODEL'S bust size as well as sweater's, so we have more info about the amount of ease pictured.

Mia wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 9:20 AM

Maybe it is just me but I can;t see the gallery. I have tried the page in two different browsers but I am not ableto see the photos.

Anonymous wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 9:17 AM

I wish you could try on every single garment on multiple women like this. It's SOOOO helpful to gauge what something might look like on you (well, on me). I'd love to see this happen on any garment, any time...perhaps a good idea for an upcoming article in the magazine, or a recurring thing? One item a month (preferably a top, not socks or a dog sweater), shown on 8 or 9 different people, with simple bust and/or hip measurements, just like that, would be an awesome addition to the magazine each month. I would LOVE it.

Lili wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 9:14 AM

Thank you, Corset Girls! This is one of the most useful knitting articles I've seen in a long time. Quite the eye-opener. Now we need a tutorial on just HOW to accomplish the suggested alterations, especially the

3baddogs wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 9:13 AM

SO FABULOUS!!! See, how that puppy just rides right up on Erin and those straps are right below the girls??? That's me all over. Now, I know, even though I've got a rather short torso compared with my arms and legs, I'm just going to have to put some extra yardage up front there. You really went above and beyond the call there and I can't thank you enough. I'm sure I'll be referring back to the photo gallery before I start any sweater. Don't take it down!

As to the summer knits, I live where it's in the high 90's THROUGHOUT Jun-mid Sept, and for several weeks in there we're over 100 AND for one incredibly charming week in June we're over 105, so I think I glanced through a half-closed eye at the summer knits .. heh heh. I'll go back and look at them for real and see if possibly I couldn't wear a few of them in May! :-)

Yerac wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 9:13 AM

This was so informative... thank you! It was wonderful to see how the same exact sweater could look so different! And add my voice to the chorus thanking the models!

PamW wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 9:11 AM

This is the single most helpful post yet.

Now I understand what the problems are with some sweaters I've made, and have a better idea of how I'd adjust them.

I second (third?) the idea of wanting to get detailed info on ow to measure and adjust garments in teh shoulder/neck, underarm, bust area.

Thanks for coming up with this on the spur of the moment! It was the type of thing a magazine won't show us, but that we really need!

Thanks again!

finneganreilly wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 9:08 AM

Sandi, thanks for going the extra mile to make your column one worth reading. I never skip yours, as I know I'll miss something that will make me a better knitter, a more informed comsumer, and/or wonderfully entertained! Using several different models (thanks, ladies) to show the corset sweater is just what we have all been needing to see and no one has taken the effort to do it. You are the best, and your ideas are fresh and unique. Keep it up!

zimt_arlcova wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 9:08 AM

I loved the gallery because your "official" photos don't show the back of the sweater. I find it interesting, like so many others, that the wide neckline didn't work for any of your models. Do you do errata sheets for your patterns? Sounds like it's time to adjust that one.

Also, small nit-picky note on your pdf patterns: I can't make my own adjustment notes in the margins on them because so much of the margin is that double green line border, and the instructions are run in as paragraphs instead of individual lines. Please consider lightening up the design of the pdfs.

Raynebair wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 9:08 AM

This was so interesting but I have no idea how to customize a pattern. Maybe we need more general info on how to modify patterns, like general things to consider. This makes me even more hesitant to make my first sweater...you've just shown that most of the time customizations are needed.

KarenM wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 9:05 AM

OK, this was frickin awesome, although i have 4" on even the loveliest of your models, this was a huge help, I have yet to knit a sweater for myself (working on the first one now) and a big part is just not knowing how it will look on me, I now have a MUCH better idea. I would LOVE to see a magazine move away from uber slim cutie models for everything and use REAL women. No matter what the shape of the woman, uber thin, plus size whatever we all have fit issues in every garment, it would be so nice to see that variety represented in pictures. Think Dove real beauty campaign. Even the big brands know we are ready for it, and knitters are WAY more open to the idea that beauty comes in more than a 32" chest :-)

JaneR wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 9:05 AM

I also sew, and have in the past year started making up the patterns in muslin first. As I adjust the muslins I have had a real education on how my body is really shaped (narrow back, narrow shoulders, bust proportionately large, torso length proportionately short!)
I have been toying with doing "muslins" for sweaters but in a knit to allow for stretch -- of course this won't be perfect but it will definitely get me on the right track.
Loved seeing the ame sweater on different bodies -- onpened my eyes!

LisaH wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 9:04 AM

This is great.

If you keep this idea going maybe the magazine can have a few samples made up of the various sweaters in different sizes so you can show the gamut of sizes and fits even better.

I would love to get some detailed information on how to measure and adjust garments in the shoulder/neck, underarm, bust area. Other /adaptations like lengthening or shortening a sleeve seem easy enough to figure out but the top part of a sweater is where the bunching, stretching and other misfitting is most likely to happen.

Thanks!

MeredithT wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 9:00 AM

Sandi - I already loved Knitting Daily, but this idea is just brilliant! Being a well-rounded 32H myself, I am reluctant to try to fit garments to my body, but I love to knit for my slender 28D friend. Maybe I can get a new start for myself now. Thank you!

Cheryl S wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 8:57 AM

Thank you - this was a great idea, and very useful. Too bad we can't see something like this for every pattern!

Elisabeth wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 8:49 AM

LOVE the photos of the sweater on Real Women! I did not want to make the Corset Sweater (too low-cut, too-wide shoulders) until I realized, hey, I could just fix it to fit ME! Thanks so much to all the Corset Gals and to Sandi!

Jamie@4 wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 8:46 AM

Wondeful, and please, more! It helps so very much to see how the sweater fits various sizes and know what modifications I'd probably want to make before I start the darn thing. The photos were helpful, but the suggestions on how to make the sweater fit various shapes were even more so. I'm busty with a long torso, but otherwise petite, so nothing ever fits me the right way as designed. I might be able to make this one fit, though, based on your suggestions.

JenniferP wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 8:26 AM

I'm glad that you displayed the sweater on real people. Usually, the sweater's aren't personally knit to fit for the model, so this really helped.

I have a longer torso, but I'm only '5 "3, with a very small bust.

SusanF wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 8:20 AM

Sandi! Thank you for sharing this. It is so helpful! Susan

R.M wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 8:19 AM

BRAVO BRAVO BRAVO!!!!!

What an excellent article. It's the best idea ever: show a garment in different bodies. I wish I could have you here with me.

And about darts.... I'm also waiting for the tutorial.

Congrats and keep the EXCELLENT work

raquel

Laurence wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 8:19 AM

I'm also a geek who makes websites and I can't see the images. I've looked at the code of the page and they are just not there! I hope you can fix it because I'm really interested to see how it fits

LizP wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 8:19 AM

I'm enjoying Knitting Daily more and more, and am finally prompted to write. This last post is great, showing the corset on different bodies. I have big trouble visualizing how something will look on whoever I am knitting for.
I would love some help in knowing what I might need to adjust BEFORE I knit the piece! I can see what's needed in Corset on your models once they wear it, but I can never seem to see this before I make it.
Thanks again for great newsletters.

RebeccaCarolus wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 8:14 AM

Couldn't you extend the sizing, so it went from XS to XL?
Besides more information on customization, it would just be nice/logical to see all the standard sizes for everything.
Especially for beginning knitters who might fit one of those sizes and are not so great at changing everything without knitting it first.

Vicki@2 wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 8:13 AM

Excellent post. Thank you very much for your hard work.

Vicki W.

EvelynA wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 8:03 AM

Fascinating. The piece of the process that stalls me is being able to figure out what all adjustments would be needed BEFORE I had knit the sweater. Knitting everything at least twice to resize isn't an attractive idea

AliceA wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 8:00 AM

Congratulations to the corset girls and thank you for sharing the photos. After seeing this sweater on so many real bodies I now know I would not make it or wear it without significant adjustments to the pattern - the opposite of what I thought before the corset girls pictures. Thank you for saving me some time!

pssotn wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 7:57 AM

Thank you thank you...all 9 plus Bertha...the visual demonstration really helped me to understand and determine "real people" sizing..great! Penelope

TerriS@3 wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 7:53 AM

I have been a knitter for over 25 years and feel silly asking this but what is negative ease, for that matter is there a positive ease?
Terribly confused,
Terri

KatP wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 7:51 AM

ditto what everyone else has said. I thought maybe I-cords or a thin ribbon for the ties might not look so heavy as the knitted ones shown. I truly believe you've hit this dead-on. As a company I hope you take note and future magazines will incorporate real people rather than anorexic models. I've seen many tops I like but none that look like they would fit "me". I'm a busty 40" on a short frame. And to think I used to look like the models you have used in the past! many many years ago.

keep up the great work!!!! and a special thanks to all the gals who volunteered for the modeling job of the corset!!!
kat

LeslieL wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 7:48 AM

Wow! The photo gallery was SO HELPFUL! Thanks to the models and to you, for your comments on how you'd alter the sweater to fit better. I definitely vote for more of this type of thing!!

Preciousmonkey wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 7:44 AM

thanks for giving us more resizing information....seeing the jumper on differnet people was a real eye opener. You really have to get to know your body and what works best with what you have got....so i got to thinking....what with all this adapting designs discussion, could you give us some instruction on how to design?

Jess

DaisyS wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 7:37 AM

Excellent post! Thank you to all the models. Could we please do this with the Notre Dame sweater from the Fall issue?

There have been a lot of comments about not knowing how to adjust/fit a pattern. Could you do a review of some of the new books that are being published on fitted knits? While it would be lovely to have tutorials on making adjustments, I think it's a book length topic. You'd never have a chance to post on other things that are happening in the knitting world.

JaneA wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 7:33 AM

Re: The Corset Pullover
On all nine models, the neckline is too wide and comments were made about correcting that by narrowing the center panel. How would I do that without narrowing the body of the sweater (where I *certainly* don't need it narrower)?
I have the same problem with a raglan-sleeve top that I made from Knitty.com's "Bob" pattern. The neckline is too wide and it slides off one shoulder or the other, showing my bra straps (ugh!).
Jane in PA

JaimeG wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 7:31 AM

Could we ask the yarn shop owners and staff hosting the trunk shows for Fall 07 IK garments to send us photos of them modeling the garments? That would be an awesome use of the trunk shows--especially for those of us who live far away and can't see the garments in person. And it wouldn't hurt the yarn shops to get a little publicity on KD.

TanaP wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 7:26 AM

I find it interesting that the neckline was too wide on everyone... Who exactly was this designed to fit? A design flaw perhaps?

sugarcreek6885 wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 7:24 AM

I found it very helpful and interesting to see how the same sweater fits so differently. And then your suggestions on how to make each, fit better, was very good.
Thanks Sandi,
Linda

SusanD@4 wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 7:21 AM

This fascinating survey of fit to body raises a question. How does a knitter know what aspects of a garment to adjust, and how? This is a fairly unforgiving pattern so the tweeking would be more extensive. I know how to make use of the schematics for things like sleeve length, but how to tell where a half inch more or less on the neckline would make a huge difference in how much you love the finished product?
Susan Dewey

JanaM wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 7:21 AM

Does anyone else find the fact that the neck on the corset top was too wide and (mostly) too low for all the models a little disconcerting? Maybe it would be a good idea to have several people try on the samples before posting the the pattern, then include suggested modifications.

CristieG wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 7:11 AM

I have to say that I wasn't a fan of this sweater after seeing it on the model. I didn't find it to be all that flattering. Now seeing it on a curvy model/manequin I love it! It seems like one of those garments that would be great at creating a waist. Thanks for the new pic!!

Keri wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 6:50 AM

I can't see ANY photos of the corset gals- WHERE are they!!??

KayA wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 6:43 AM

I'm just echoing what others have said, but thank you.

CindyK wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 6:41 AM

I always vote for seeing a garment on different body shapes. I love the shapes of the models but unfortunately, it is not ME!!! Seeing a garment on a larger body is so much better. Really helps to visualize. Plus I'm not going to be saying to myself "I could never look that good because I'm not that thin" if I see it on a more realistic body. Maybe I would knit more garments :)

Rebecca@2 wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 6:39 AM

I wasn't going to try to knit this sweater. But now that I have seen it on "real" women. I am compelled to knit it NOW. Thanks.

Remington4 wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 6:39 AM

This was a great idea, however it'd be nice to see each model wear the size that she would've actually knit for herself (I know this would most likely be too huge of a feat to accomplish). Of course the shapes are "off" on many of them, as the sweater is not the proper size for most of the models to begin with. I think that the corset is just lovely, but after seeing this post I personally would NOT knit it. The neckline didn't seem to work for any of the 9 models, and it seems that there would have to be SO MANY modifications made to the pattern in order for it to flatter anyone's figure. I appreciate all of your suggestions about how to "fix" the sweater per model. I, however, simply can NOT be bothered messing around so much with a pattern in order to have it come out exactly the way that I want. I don't mind if it's a simple act of making a garment longer, shorter, sleeves more narrow, etc. but it's too frustrating to try to change so many elements. I did that once, and my sweater still did not turn out to look good on me -- I gave it away, and it looks wonderful on the recipient ...

Lykkefant wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 5:51 AM

I really liked to see the same sweater on 9 (10) so different yet so beautiful women! It was pure education especially with the comments on how to make the model fit better on each of the women.

Keep posting, I enjoy every one of them!

X Karen S

LindaG wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 5:48 AM

I think this was a great idea to show how this sweater would look on different body types. I wouldn't have considered making it because the neckline seemed to low and wide but I really liked your suggestions for how to modify the pattern to improve the fit in the neckline. Great post!

kdolvin@va.metrocast.net wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 5:21 AM

I find it interesting that folks were concerned about how this particular pattern would fit on a curvy figure, because my first thought as a "less than well endowed woman" (okay, pretty flat!) was that you need a bust to hold that kind of neckline in place. My experience with a low open neckline like that and a relatively flat chest is that once I lean over to any degree then the neck gapes wide open. Anyway, love the site and the wide variety of patterns and posting. Keep up the great work.

TerrieR wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 5:07 AM

Thank you for this wonderful tutorial. More, More, Please!!

AmySamin wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 4:48 AM

Seeing the sweater on various, live models really helped me understand how this sweater loks and fits. Thanks for all the extra work you did!

Cinders wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 4:48 AM

Thank you so much for showing the Corset sweater on 'real' women. although I'm larger than your largest lady I can see that if iknitted the sweater I'd have to make it longer. I think including customising ideas would be fab. I already lenghten many tops to cover the large Buhdda belly!

Cinders wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 4:48 AM

Thank you so much for showing the Corset sweater on 'real' women. although I'm larger than your largest lady I can see that if iknitted the sweater I'd have to make it longer. I think including customising ideas would be fab. I already lenghten many tops to cover the large Buhdda belly!

BeateM wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 4:45 AM

I've never thought about knitting this sweater. It wasn't appealing at all, the way it hang on the model. Now I'm really about it - the pictures of Kit just got me - a little negative ease and it's a great thing!

Keep on showing us sweaters on real women! For the summer issue - please the oriel blouse.

ElizabethS wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 4:43 AM

loved the 9 girls and figured i dont look so odd any more just more mature and the corset top certianlty looked better than on the model I woudl not have looked at it twice and never have bothered making from the picture of the model I liked it best on the dummy but still wouldnt knit I say thankyou to the lovely ladies who were comftable enough to wear it tell us their size and all the comments that were put in about the adjustments that needed doing for the different people, some of the most helpful ideas of any book on the market like the other australians I am desperatly waiting for the next mag it will get here eventually I figure and by then everyone will have sorted out what are the good patterns and any sily bugs keep up the great work and thanks to all the staff.

Oda wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 4:15 AM

That was a great comparison shoot!
As a shapely woman I also appreciate that you remember us too in your patterns! (Though, as I am 128 cm around bust I could use even bigger sizes... hinthint. ;))

This is a lovely design, I just need extra hours to my days! :D

- Outi

http://snowprincipessa.livejournal.com/

T.H wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 4:04 AM

The Corset Gals gallery is a great idea, and your comments about what could be changed to better suit each model were very helpful. Is it just me, or did the "shoulder straps" need to be wider for EVERY SINGLE MODEL?

Sarah wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 2:58 AM

The 'Corset Gals' gallery is INCREDIBLY helpful! The pictures show us how the garment fits (or doesn't); the comments explain how to improve the fit and even better, provide advice on how the top does (or doesn't) suit the model's figure. Thank you -- and the models -- so much.

Lee-Fay wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 2:43 AM

Those pictures and suggested changes are the best article you've put on knitting daily yet! I'd love to see some of the other IK patterns on some different women.

KatherineS wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 2:17 AM

Thank you for such an informative post. It was really great to see the different shapes and sizes modelling the garment. Definitely looks better on those girls than on the original model!

JillD@2 wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 2:11 AM

I am gobsmacked at how wonderful you are at Knitting Daily! One sweater, nine women is brilliant, fantastic, and wonderful, and SO useful! Thank you so much for taking the time to show how this one pullover fits on nine different shapes and pointing out what changes would be made for a better fit and why. Knitting Daily is like having my own knitting group of fun, interesting, and knowledgable people right in my own house! Keep up the fantastic, entertaining and educational work! Keep these kinds of tutorials coming -- PLEASE!!

SandraB wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 2:07 AM

This article was very informative and interesting - a brilliant idea! Thank you. With apologies to the designer, even on the curvy girls the neck was too wide and low and therefore not a good design, although I like the centre panel and sleeves. When I saw the original picture I thought the garment was very unflattering. I would have no idea how to alter a pattern to fit me AND have it look good which is why I don't knit sweaters for myself, just my children and teens. I'd love to see other garments modeled by different sized girls with your tips for making a great fit. This was such a great article :-)

Frau Wollholz wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 1:48 AM

This is really great - not only to see the sweater on different models, but also to have comments about necessary modifications in each single case. Thanks - brilliant idea!

SamanthaT wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 1:34 AM

I too would like to thank you for the corset photo's - although I still wouldn't knit this garment - it has shown me how much one garment can differ from one person to the next - makes me feel better about having to alter patterns.

By the way does Sandi really only have one thing on her needles? I always find that my needles are lying all over the place with wip on them :)

lmf324 wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 1:28 AM

Would love to see the 'Wing Top' modeled by several real gals. It's a beautiful sweater!

lmf324 wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 1:20 AM

Thanks for this version of KD - like others before me - this info was very helpful. I have loved this pattern since it was first published in IK and have been wanting to make - so it was great to see the 'tweaks' that various sizes might need.

Also - you mention that you focus (rightly so) on bust measurements. In the future would it be possible to also include hip? As someone who has 'great' hip curves, it would be nice to know how best to work with that 'figure feature' from a construction standpoint.

Please keep up the great work and I look forward to more gallery shots of featured projects.

KateM@2 wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 1:19 AM

I'm another one who can't see any images on gallery page - tried two different browsers, checked that it wasn't adblocked, refreshed, tried everything I could think of (and some people think I AM a nerd!)

EirwenG wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 1:10 AM

Hi Sandy,
I was unable to open up any pics and see them. But a great idea, seeing pics of real women wearing stuff, helps a lot. It'd be good to see older women wearing garments, as well as the different sizes. While I remain 25 forever in my mind, the body has unfortunatley got older without my permission, so not only am I big in the upstairs dept, I am also(scowl) now in my early sixties, and it would be good to see something other than v. young stick insects modelling for you.
Your doing a great job.
Eirwen

PhyllisD@4 wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 12:48 AM

I think we larger gals could start the shaping in the middle panel to provide more coverage at the shoulder--mine are just too rounded to support the wide neck as shaped. I do want to make it longer, but will add increases inside the middle panel at the bottom of the waist or use a larger set of needles and not worry about the extra stitches. Hmmm, now it's off to find the yarn!

nekosan wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 12:46 AM

Can't see the gallery! Any hints? I've tried two different computers, two different browsers per computer, and no luck. Wah!

WynneL wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 12:40 AM

I love the corset gals! This is the type of info that is greatly needed but sorely lacking in patterns. I couldn't have even begun to imagine wanting to knit this from the single model, but now... where are my needles?!

-Wynne

Jennaudren wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 12:27 AM

I loved seeing this top on the different women - I suspected it would look good on a curvier silhouette, and I'm glad my idea was confirmed. The information was very useful, but you could only make your assessments by trying the finished garment on the women. The real issue is: how do we know when looking at a pattern which adjustments we need to make? We all don't have the luxury of trying a garment on before we start knitting, so as individuals we need to develop very good instincts for fit. Not easy!

CynthiaF@2 wrote

on Aug 16, 2007 12:07 AM

My favorite Knitting Daily entry so far! I LOVED seeing the Corset Pullover on all the different "models". This project has always been on my to-do-list and now it has been bumped up, just as soon as I finish the Bohus inspired fair isle by MJ Mucklestone! (I'm at the sleeves and now it is heavy and hot in my lap...)
Cindy Falk

Cam.percy wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 11:50 PM

Oh, the Corset gals thing was brilliant! I loved the expert comments on modifying it to suit the shapes of the women pictured.

I wasn't the slightest bit interested in knitting the Corset Pullover after seeing the pattern photo. It looked ridiculous! Now that I see it on people it actually fits, I might just knit it.

Please ask Interweave to make sure garments fit the way they're designed to in pattern photos. I'm afraid I've overlooked some lovely patterns because of willowy models!

AnnaM wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 11:35 PM

Excellent article! Thank you. I'm a retired dressmaker, and when I saw the corset photo in IK for the first time, despite the pretty model, I said, "What were they THINKING?" The sweater cut didn't suit her at all! and my "professional fitter" instinct told me that the neckline was way too wide, probably for almost every body.
But all that aside, this is the best airing of the issue of fit/style for knitters that I have yet seen, and it is to my mind THE most important issue for designers and publishers to work with!
Thanks SO much for such a great blog!
(And I think your models are great. I can tell that they are not all "skinny skeletons", and I appreciate the more mature figures of several.)

Cancergrrrl wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 11:33 PM

What a cool thing, to have everyone try the corset on! That's a big
help, especially in light of the "willowy" (very diplomatic of you, Sandi) model in the original photo.

Thanks to everyone for taking time out to put their busts on the line...

MeganL wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 11:28 PM

There are a lot of things I have enjoyed about Knitting Daily so far but this has got to be the best idea ever! Thank you for showing a variety of women wearing the sample and suggesting alterations, it makes this knitter want to learn more about customizing patterns and finally try knitting a sweater. Thanks!

Willa JeanD wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 11:23 PM

I'm just more and more impressed with KD. That was just a brilliant idea! Too often I've spent way too much to knit something that comes out looking just, off. Just, meh, you know? Then I go back to socks and shawls.
I'm really thinking I might try this one now. But do I have to knit the whole thing twice to get it to fit right?
Shouldn't these things be knit from the top down? I don't mean circularly. I mean knitting exactly the same pieces but starting at the shoulders. Then you could baste or pin and try on as you go. Doesn't that make sense?

BrendaC@2 wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 11:01 PM

Uh, where ARE the corset gals? --no visible pictures or links thereto. Separate gallery page? Nope, do not see :(

Beadntat wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 10:58 PM

Hey Sandi, you just landed on my biggest "issue" with Interweave Knits--the demo garments and the same (ahem, boring) models who wear said garments. Since you have such a broad diversity of sizes among your loyal subscribers, why can't the models and the garments shown in the magazine reflects that same diversity? Frankly, although the patterns may give the data for multiple sizes, I frequently don't trust that a specific garments will actually look good on the extra petite or extra curvy gal. That's the image we never get to see. I gave up knitting sweaters for a long time because of fit issues and am just now gathering the courage to give it another try. The magazine really does need some fresh new faces in the modeling department! (If I see one model in particular in the next issue, I may puke I'm so tired of looking at her very distinctive image)

AmberK wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 10:57 PM

Thank you! It really is lovely to see the corset sweater in all it's glory, and on all of your gorgeous models!
I'd love to see more sweaters out in the "real world", thanks so much again!

JenniferH wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 10:56 PM

Loved to see the different fit & the suggestions for personalizing. How about the Origami Cardi & Notre Dame sweaters? I fell in love with them, immediately!
Jennifer, knitting vicariously

Selvedge wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 10:52 PM

A resounding YES! Please, as many as you can fit, or take a poll; even if you can't do 9 takes for each sweater. A friend of mine from a different group asked for opinions on how the Origami Cardi would look on her - a petite woman with a 38 DD bust. *THIS* would be of such a service to her and so many other of my knitting friends.
And, adding to one future topic - you talk about adjusting armholes -- some hand holding tutorials/explanations might be good there too. My skinny armed kids and I would be grateful. Please pasas along a very heartfelt THANKS to Debbie, Erin, Katie, Kit, Kat, Laura, Liz, Tricia and Toni for their time and measurments.

Desiree

Annalea wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 10:38 PM

I think it's great that you're working on ways to make knits more accessible for all sizes . . . is there any way you can put in a word with the photo-shoot folks at IK, and get a model or two that has a figure closer to the majority of the Knitting Daily subscribers? (i.e. ~40"-45")

Thanks for the great content!

--Annalea

Angeluna wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 10:21 PM

Sandi, thanks so much. Fascinating to see this delightful pattern on such a variety of bodies (thanks ladies). So nice to have the fit suggestions. Only problem I see is you almost have to knit the sweater twice to get it right!!!! It is a pattern I would probably have overlooked this pattern if you hadn't shown it on those lovely "real" women. Can't wait to see yours.

And yes, please do this with other samples. It's terrific.

FayeH@2 wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 10:21 PM

Great job on showing all the models in different sizes. Love it big time. You rock.
Faye

SaraM wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 10:17 PM

Thanks so much for having your coworkers model for us! I would love to see some of the Summer '07 knits modeled too - especially the Josephine Top and Sleeveless Tuxedo Shirt. Thanks for all your hard work! :o)

Ashley / doggedknits.com wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 10:17 PM

I've always loved this pattern, but just kind of assumed it wasn't for me because the original model was so wee. But if Erin can rock it, I totally can! (Hi Erin!)

This was a fantastic feature, and deserves repetition. I have no idea what the editorial decision-making process is, but if I may be so bold, i definitely think it would be worth doing before y'all decide to publish a pattern too, as the exercise seemed to turn up some common problems across the board (neckline too low and wide for most of your models).

CarolynB@3 wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 10:16 PM

I loved your comments and what you attempted to do, but none of the pictures came through. Very frustrating! Carolyn

KathieJ wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 10:13 PM

I just loved the photos of all the different sized normal looking women (i.e. not models) wearing the same sweater. I've slacked off on my knitting after two disastrous projects that didn't fit properly and looked sub-standard. Years ago I was pumping out production, mainly children's sweaters (Debbie Bliss patterns especially)as gifts for family and friends with great success. This photo gallery has given me inspiration to start a new project.

JudyE@2 wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 10:12 PM

Very nice presentation! thoughtful to see the garment on a variety of sizes. Thank you!

Lydia wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 10:09 PM

I think the idea of trying it on different women was brilliant! I'd never been too impressed with the top personally, but seeing it on someone with more my shape (long torso, big breasts) made it start looking a whole lot better. I hope you do this with more IK garments, sometimes its just too hard to tell how they're going to look on a 'real' woman!

KellyN wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 10:09 PM

First when I saw this pattern, I thought...eelk!! Not attractive at all. This is a very pretty pattern, but was ill fitting. Thanks for showing this. I'll be keeping a more open mind about other patterns too. (I wonder why the editors chose to showcase this lovely design in this manner?)

JacquelineS@2 wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 10:05 PM

Seeing a sweater on multiple models is great. I would love to see this for other sweaters/tops as well as the suggestions for customizing. Excellent work

GloriaF wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 10:05 PM

I loved your idea to try the top on lots of different shapes. I didn't care for the top in the magazine, but have changed my mind since I've seen your co-workers with it on! Thank you to the girls for being willing (coerced?) to model for us.
Thank you, Gloria

Dr lauraA wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 10:03 PM

just brilliant. thanks for persuading the various folks to try it on - all are lovely beings!

Jen@2 wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 10:01 PM

I'd also like to chime in and add to the thanks for this post. I had not found the Corset Pullover very attractive as it was shown on the oh-so-thin model. It looks SO much better on real women and might find its way onto my project list for this fall. Maybe KD/IK should consider using more "real world" sized models.

Alicegold wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 9:55 PM

Loved this issue re modifying pattern to fit different figure types. Keep up the good work.

Thanks - Alice

LeaV wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 9:46 PM

Thanks for letting us see what this sweater looks like on several body types, but the comments about narrowing this and widening that are opening a whole can of worms for me. If you make the center panel wider or narrower, do you also have to do the same with the back? Same thing with the neck straps - how do you do this and still get the rest of the sweater to come out right? It would be nice to know how to adapt a pattern to fit "me" better, so how do you do it?

Thanks - Lea in Evansville, IN

Chris R wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 9:41 PM

Like Linda, I too thought it was interesting that the neckline was too wide for all the models.

I first dismissed this pattern as not for me, but the more I've looked at it and read about it ... well, I guess I've been seduced. (The sleeves! I love those sleeves!) It's now one of my top three to-do projects. I think I'll skip the side straps, though, and try incorporating some waist shaping instead. (I read why the designer included them, and I understand completely, but I find them too visually distracting.)

Thanks so much to all the in-house models, and thanks, Sandi, for your detailed comments on each picture. You pointed out several design options that never would have occurred to me, like adjusting sleeve length to balance the bust. Wonderful, wonderful post!

KateV wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 9:36 PM

I identify with so many of these comments! I'd just like to extend my thanks regarding your openminded flexibility in presenting what a lot of us needs to see. I so appreciate all of the Gals sharing their personal size information, now I feel that I can tackle this project, I was immediately drawn to it, but was not sure if I could make it work for my more than full figure. Now I have renewed hope with a different tack to take. Thank you all! Kate in Astoria, Oregon

AmyP@4 wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 9:34 PM

I'm new to knitting and it'll be awhile before I feel comfortable knitting critical fit items, but information like this post is liberating to me. Thank you for making me realize the possibilities for fit modifications.

KarenH wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 9:33 PM

Looking at all those options really opens up doors. I'm on the bustier side of beauty and I've been modifying patterns for years. But, it's so helpful to see the results before I dig into something and try it myself. You have no idea just how many times I've ripped out one of my changes before I find the right combination of line and size. THANKS!!!

Karen in volorado

AnitaM wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 9:31 PM

What a great idea your gallery is! I'm a relatively new knitter, and learning how to customise patterns would be invaluable!
I'm really interested in the Wheat-Ear Cable Yoke and Josephine Top from Summer '07, if you're taking votes!
Still waiting on my Fall '07 issue - it takes forever to get to Australia - any way you could ensure we get it at the same time as the US subscribers? The wait it painful - I can see the online preview, but I can't get knitting soon enough! :)

BethN wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 9:27 PM

What a terrific idea. I also have had to try and customize a sweater for a short waisted curvy shape. I agree that seeing several different shapes in a sweater makes it far more appealing than on the super skinny models...I mean really do those gals look like they would even get involved in making a knitted garment. I agree that many of the magazine models (not just in IK) look like refugees, not real people. Let's start a revolt for real sizes on real looking people!!!

LindaM@4 wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 9:24 PM

I was struck by the fact that the neckline was too wide for most of the women in the gallery, perhaps there is a basic design issue with this sweater that limits its wearability?

Susan@5 wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 9:15 PM

Okay, the "Bertha models the corset pullover" at the top of the article makes it look like a fine fit. And further down, the last photo of "Corset Pullover" shows clavicle bones of a slim person. Your job is SO difficult to appeal to all the different sized knitters! I understand your challenge. Thank you for this newsletter. I so appreciate your work to bring us these types of topics on which to comment.

Susan@5 wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 9:15 PM

Okay, the "Bertha models the corset pullover" at the top of the article makes it look like a fine fit. And further down, the last photo of "Corset Pullover" shows clavicle bones of a slim person. Your job is SO difficult to appeal to all the different sized knitters! I understand your challenge. Thank you for this newsletter. I so appreciate your work to bring us these types of topics on which to comment.

Gothrabbit wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 9:11 PM

Loved the gallery! You should consider using 2 models for some of the shoots, if possible. As many others said, I loved this sweater when the magazine came out and thought it would look bad on me...seeing how it is on even the maniquin makes me realise it would be a gorgeous sweater for me.

HaleyL wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 9:10 PM

loved this! it's amazing how different the same sweater looked on all of these real-life women. thanks to all of you for sharing yourselves with us. great post, sandi!

Diane wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 9:05 PM

Sandi - the page on customizations was just enough to get me interested but not quite enough for me to figure out exactly what to do! This sweater really is beautiful, but how about picking a more standard pattern - perhaps the Notre Dame Cardi from Summer '07 or the Cinnabar Pullover from the fall issue to talk about "deconstructing" and then customizing a pattern?

I am absolutely THRILLED with this newsletter and all the great information you're providing. The Engineer in me gets all "tingly" when it shows up! Keep up the awesome work.

BrendaO wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 9:03 PM

The Gallery was an awesome idea, and thank you so much to everyone who took the time to make it happen! Sandi, I read that you are casting on for your own Corset. I know that you haven't even had time to finish the Bust Dart tutorial, but would you consider doing a Pattern Customization tutorial on your Corset? How did you decide what changes to make before you started knitting, and how do you go about changing a pattern? I am a new knitter that would love some help in this area. Thanks again for all you put into KD!

Kara wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 9:01 PM

Wow, thanks for the gallery! What a GREAT idea! So nice to see what that sweater looks like on a variety of shapes. It would be totally awesome if you could do this for ALL the garments in IK!

Also wish you would have clickable hi-res photos for all the patterns you post here. I don't want to download a pdf just to see what the darn thing looks like :)

Frithgowan wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:58 PM

This is really interesting. I hope it's clear that providing ease guidelines AND bust measurements for the IK models would make it much easier for readers to pick a size that will give them the results they want. Of course, this only works if you don't use cheats in your shoots to get the look you want. But I think IK is usually good about that.

MarilynG wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:58 PM

this is just fantastic!! It would be neat to go through how the customizations would actually work, at least for a few examples-- I love what you are doing here with us!!! (also sorry for obnoxious comments about graph, probably not even correct). From an upper sized bust person in your range (very upper).

MarilynG wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:57 PM

this is just fantastic!! It would be neat to go through how the customizations would actually work, at least for a few examples-- I love what you are doing here with us!!! (also sorry for obnoxious comments about graph, probably not even correct). From an upper sized bust person in your range (very upper).

MinnieK wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:49 PM

So awesome to see this one real people...if this were a staple feature for all the IK issues, I'd totally get a subscription. Maybe it could even be a additional web feature?

EvaF wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:43 PM

I love the photo gallery, thank you all for trying the pullover on and showing its benefits and failures.
I have had the pattern printed out for alost a year on my todo list and now I think it's time to start knitting, just making the central panel narrower, lengthen the body a few inches and use negative ease.
Thanks again.

JoannS wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:43 PM

re: corset sweater..in a very old book i found a pattern of a corset sweater like this one but it went all the way down to form a floor length slip. very beautiful old world

CarolineF wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:43 PM

Oh this is wonderful. So often I look at something and say, Well, that might look good on me if it was changed in these 6 ways, and I think, well, I'm not up to redesigning the darn thing. I know it would be a huge amount of work to do this for all designs, but maybe for those that your staff can guess might be more challenging, like this one. I looked at it and thought, neck to low and wide, move along.

JoannS wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:41 PM

so someone out there please (thats underlined 1 million times) makes the corset sweatr for us more mature gals please...but size 44 for me and i know i would make it. in fact have already picked out several colours to make it in. joann

JoannS wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:41 PM

so someone out there please (thats underlined 1 million times) makes the corset sweatr for us more mature gals please...but size 44 for me and i know i would make it. in fact have already picked out several colours to make it in. joann

JoannS wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:41 PM

so someone out there please (thats underlined 1 million times) makes the corset sweatr for us more mature gals please...but size 44 for me and i know i would make it. in fact have already picked out several colours to make it in. joann

Mary EllenB wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:41 PM

great idea showing a gallery of gals. I thought the corset was cute when I first saw it in my copy of the mag. but as a 32" barely A I figured even the smallest size would hang in an unflatteringly "empty" way. Soooo sad. Looks like I was right not to attempt this pattern. It looks pretty great on the larger gals!

Janet wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:39 PM

This is really getting good. I've needed help with customizing patterns. Perhaps you could share your thoughts about when you first look at a pattern and how you would know what changes you would consider before you even begin knitting.
Thanks for all the things that you are sharing.
Janet

Janet wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:39 PM

This is really getting good. I've needed help with customizing patterns. Perhaps you could share your thoughts about when you first look at a pattern and how you would know what changes you would consider before you even begin knitting.
Thanks for all the things that you are sharing.
Janet

Anonymous wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:39 PM

I saw the photo on the 'willowy young model' and thought 'god, that looks aweful. If it makes her look like she's drowning, it would make me look like a pregnant elephant! There's absolutely no way in the world I would spend hours knitting that!'

But of course, on the bustier dress frame, it looks exactly like something I'd knit!

I find this frustrating - I own 'Knitting Nature', and there are some gorgeous patterns in there. In particular, there's a photo of the author - who is not tall or willowy - wearing a scrummy coat, inside the back cover. The tall, willowy model in the book itself makes it look like a doubled over blanket she's wrapped around her because perhaps she's a refugee and that's all she could find to wear? Not that I have anythign against slimmer girls, but when the patterns are knit for a different size, they look odd. Would you stick a plus size model in a tank knitted for a size 6? No. Why the vice versa? It makes it oh so hard to see how it will sit on anyone who is not 6.5" and rail thin. Which is quite an important thing to have a grip on when you are thinking of commiting as much money and time to making something as knitting involves.

LesleyM wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:38 PM

I resemble the original model most but it was still really interesting to read what you would change for each of the Corset 9 (plus Bertha) and why. Very enlightening since I don't have any experience in that area.

I also just want to say thanks for bringing home the fact that we're all ok whether we're thin or fluffy.

annekaelber wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:38 PM

Excellent job, Sandi!!! The Gals really helped bring that top to life! Thank them again for me.

As for trying a Summer '07 piece, I'd most like to see either the 1824 Blouson or the Josephine Top---because I'm a "BBW", I really don't want to spend the time/money on a long-sleeve, long-length cardigan (especially since I live in the South!).

I'm gonna stick with you and KD through the growing pains. This group ROCKS and I can't wait to see what's around the corner.

Marilyn1063 wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:38 PM

Hi Sandi,
I have to say Thank you for all this work. I know it does take time, I apreciate all the effort of the team in instructing us in this matter.
Marilyn

Lee AnnB wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:38 PM

Brilliant. Thank you so very much for not smoothing over the fact that while the pattern is described as close-fitting, it is so far from close-fitting on the model that when I first read that pattern, I did a double-take and thought, am I looking at the right photo?

I profiled Robin for IK, and she is clever as hell. This sweater's been on my list for a long time, and I think it's about time I cast on for it. Thank you for making it a lot easier to figure out how I'm going to make it work for me.

KathyF wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:35 PM

Thank you for the examples of how the corset fits. It was invaluable. And thank you to the models. You all are truly wonderful. I have learned a lot from this particular sets of posts and subsequent discussions. I will stop picking on my figure and start analyzing patterns more closely so that I will knit better fitting garments. I use to think it was just my figure and would not knit many sweaters I was drawn to.

JaniceL wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:35 PM

Regardless of the changes made to the sweater....I'm so impressed that you took the time to show many different shapes and then included what needed to be done to make the sweater look better on each model.....who else takes the time to show us the "how to" for all of us beauties. Thanks

MinnieO wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:32 PM

normally, i wouldn't want to knit a sweater like this. i am a curvy girl. however, seeing it on the 9 different ladies was very enlightening! sooooooo, i downloaded the pattern, and am in the process of checking my stash to see if i have anything that will work with it. i may go with linen rather than cotton, though. THANK YOU!

Tejiendo wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:31 PM

Just on the Bertha alone you can really appreciate how this piece really is. Thanks so much for the great idea and your awesome models.

MamaCat wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:29 PM

Hey! Thanks so much for this. I see from the images how to size this particular pattern for different sizes and am thinking about my own size! But, that is where I am in trouble. I am new to this. I guess what I am wondering now is do I have to knit the whole sweater twice to get a good fit? Is there some way I can figure out that the garment is going to come out one way or another before I knit -- does it just come down to careful measuring or is there other stuff to do to insure good fit? Thanks again.

knitonepurltoo wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:26 PM

Thank you, thank you for this really helpful comparison - I thought your suggested mods were not only right on, but educational for me. Please thank the staff for participating!

Treeba wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:26 PM

I love the gallery gals! It is brilliant, and a really good use of an IK blog! If/when we get this chance with the fall issue, I'll put my vote in for a couple pieces.

AndreaH@2 wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:25 PM

Loved the photo gallery & the explanations of customizations for different body types... I think that was a light bulb that just wen off in my head!

I've been mooning over the 1824 Blousson, and some pics of that would be most appreciated.

Thanks for a great site!

LynneE wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:25 PM

How do I view the "Corset Gals" photos, using MSIE? LIke Tammy, I see the words but not the photos, even after signing in.

CoralG wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:23 PM

HI! Thanks for the photos. The interesting thing is that the sweater wasn't right on ANY of the "real" ladies (you even felt that Bertha had issues). Could we suggest that the magazine have small insets showing the magazine on "real shaped" women, not just "perfect" models? That would help us make an informed choice about what to spend our knitting time on. :)

TammyT wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:15 PM

I need a nerd! I cannot see the pictures on the "Corset Gals" page. Help!! I get the words but not the pictures of the ladies.

ChrissT wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 8:10 PM

Finally somebody gets it! It's not more sizes we need but information on how to make something fit our own personal body shape. If I spend so much time on knitting a garment for myself or anybody else it had better fit properly and look good otherwise it's just a waste of my time. Thank you Sandi and everyone at Knitting Daily for understanding.

SaraB wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 7:55 PM

I remember seeing this pattern when it was originally published, and thinking it was the most unattractive garment. Now that I've been it on the Corset 9 (plus Bertha), I'm convinced it's a great design that I could wear! I would not have believed this without the gallery, so I say bring on the real models for the summer 2007 sweaters!

Sue@2 wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 7:54 PM

Thank you! This is an unbelievably helpful post. I have recently returned to knitting after despairing of my garments looking like sacks hanging of my very generous cup size, in the hopes of learning how to customise fit. This post has really helped me visualise what is going on and possible solutions. I would absolutely LOVE to see more designs on different shaped bodies plus comments on modifying fit. Any chance of roping in a passerby with an F cup...!

AndreaMurley wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 7:53 PM

That's *brilliant*!!! I'm the same shape as Erin, so I'll be following those suggestions.

Thanks again for thinking of your readers!

VeronicaW wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 7:51 PM

Love the gallery! What a great way to see how a design looks on different body shapes. It would be nice to see the garment knit in a larger size and modeled on a "plus-sized" person.

AngelikaD wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 7:50 PM

This sweater is absolute proof, that there is more to a good fitting garment then bust measurements.
On the original model as well as your tailor's manquin the material around the waist is folded over and the straps are pulled tight.........maybe so the model won't drown in the sweater...lol...?
All your live models look a gazillion times better then the original one....mostly because the sweater shows off their curves and attributes....it does not just hang there......
One person might have needed maybe ten more stitches around the waist....but still looked good.......now I am actually tempted to knit the Corset...

Thanks as always....

Angelika,
Mexico City

TamaraM wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 7:46 PM

I am wondering if someone could please explain a bit more about "ease" and what negative vs positive ease is. Thanks!

Janine wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 7:44 PM

I'd love to see sweaters from the summer 2007 issue on a variety of bodies! Just today I was looking through this issue and wishing I could see more images of the sweaters I was thinking about knitting.

GudrunJ wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 7:44 PM

This was a great idea. I agree that it's really helpful to see the same garment on different sizes and fun to see the people behind the magazine! This is my first post to KD and I wanted to say what a great job you're doing. Thanks so much!

Gauss wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 7:41 PM

This is such an excellent post! I wasn't so sure about KD at the beginning, but now I am persuaded - this is a great site.

AbigailN wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 7:03 PM

LOVE the gallery! Thank you! It's helpful, not just for this garment, but as I am still learning about what sorts of fit details are flattering on different folks, seeing the same garment on a bunch of folks and talking about how it could be tweaked for them is AWESOME.

(Pardon the caps. I got excited.)

SharonC wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 6:57 PM

Josephine Top, and Oriel Lace would be my first two picks, if you're taking votes already!The Blouson would also be nice to see.

SharonC wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 6:43 PM

Hi Sandi...super idea. And so glad you'll have help soon. I'm sure you need it! How many subscribers to KD now?

SharonH wrote

on Aug 15, 2007 6:34 PM

Hm. I do kind of wonder what it'd look like on an actual plus sized woman, but that does give me a better idea than just the model.

I have all but one sleeve done in brown and I might pull it out and finish it just to see.

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