Third Time Lucky: The Yoke That Finally Worked

Beautifully soft and airy—this piece combines my fine handspun 2-ply Corriedale with an ultrafine silk-mohair yarn for a light, luxurious feel.

Pattern: It's not a Sweatshirt by Knitting for Olive
Handspun yarn: Spun by me
Silk-mohair: Sesia Vivienne (70% kid mohair, 30% mulberry silk).

Since I last wrote about the jersey, I’ve tackled the yoke for the third time. This time with complete focus—every row counted, every increase double-checked. I gave it my full attention, and yes: finally, I got it right.

The relief and happiness were real. After three false starts, I’ve been persistently careful with every single stitch—no assumptions, no autopilot—and it’s paid off. The yoke is looking absolutely stunning. I’m so happy with it, and surprisingly, I’m already feeling inspired to knit another one. There’s something deeply satisfying about mastering a skill that felt just out of reach.

I’m nearly finished with the yoke now—just a few rounds to go. These are long rounds: 300+ stitches, with eight increases each time. But I’ve finally reached the point where I’m confident it’s not going to go wrong. I know the rhythm. I’ve internalised the increases: two stitches before the marker, make one right; then two stitches after the marker, make one left. And I’ve got this funny little way of remembering—my right hand facing down for right increases, left hand facing up for left. I know it in my fingers now, not just in my head.

What’s next: putting sleeve stitches aside and continuing with the body. It feels exciting. Relaxed, now. I’m genuinely enjoying the knitting.

And I have to say—the yarn combination is exquisite. My very fine, naturally coloured hand-spun paired with the silk mohair is creating a soft gradation from pale greys to a deep, almost black brown. The mohair brings this misty haze to the fabric. It’s refined. Subtle. Complex. I’m absolutely delighted.

So yes, I’m still completely in love with this project. And very, very grateful I stuck with it.