A – Reading a chart
1. The first row of the chart is a knit row, so start in the bottom right hand corner and read the chart from right to left.
2. The second (purl row) is worked by reading from left to right on the chart.
3. Continue working back and forth across the chart until the pattern is completed.
4. Change colours as shown on the chart by referring to the key under the chart.
B – Tips for working with more than one colour
1. Before commencing the pattern it may be easier to place the balls in separate grip seal bags, as this will prevent the colours becoming tangled as you work.
2. When carrying wool across the back of work, take care not to pull wool too tightly as this will distort the pattern and the shape of the garment by forming ridges.
3. Do not cut yarns unless told to do so in the pattern.
C – How to change colours
1. If a new colour is required, join this in at the start of the row, as shown in yesterdays tips.
2. Colours not in use are always carried across behind the work.
3. Carry each colour across behind the work in the same way, for example always carry Main colour over the top of the contrast colour. This makes all the contrast colour changes clear on the front of the work.
4. To carry work across behind a purl row:
For clarity in this photo the white yarn is being carried over the top of the Main colour before purling the next stitch.
5. The back of the finished colour work should look like this:
6. The contrast colour loops are much slacker than the Main colour loops which allows the contrast colour stitches to stand out more on the right side of the work.