Blog #40 Meg Swansen on Knitted Collars
Dear Knitter,
In the video above, I show you the Saffron Shallow Shawl-Collared Cardigan & Cap in the current issue of Wool Gathering (#109). The video provides a brief verbal description of the attached shawl collar. Full instructions can be found in Wool Gathering Issue 109 or subscribe to this longstanding 12-page publication. Each print issue includes a code for you to download a digital copy for free. Subscribers receive 4 issues over two years in fall in spring for $25 (U.S.) or $30 (International), shipping included.
Variations of knitted collars:
There are many ways to knit different shapes of collars - both shawl and otherwise.
The following three designs of Elizabeth Zimmermann's (all knitted horizontally along with the garment) are in her book, Knit One Knit All.
- EZ’s Long Collared Jacket with rectangular lapels
- Blazer style lapels on EZ's Bavarian Jacket (plus her ingenious Bent Elbows)
- EZ’s wonderful Suspender Sweater with a deep pointed collar.
The Elizabeth Zimmermann Coat (Schoolhouse Press Pattern 51) has a very deep, curved collar (worked along with the coat), and instructions for two versions @ two different gauges.
Vertical shawl collars knitted onto the finished jacket include the current Wool Gathering issue (#109), and my Shawl-Collared Vest, including cables and reversible Phoney Seams on collar.
This lower v-neck shaping meant that I have several inches of straight (no shaping) stocking above the V shaping and a few front body stitches after all raglan declines. When picking up for the bands/collar, knitting these raw body stitches, which are at a right angle to the pick up stitches, has created a less than smooth transition, which I hope to resolve by firm blocking. Is this just wishful thinking? Also, short rowing in increments of 5 stitches is going to take several more rows to get to the start of the lower v-neck shaping. Do I have to refigure short rows?
Of course, I've already sewn and cut the steek, so reknitting is almost impossible. Do I swear a blue streak, frog to the start of the v-neck shaping (keeping sleeves), and rework the body, or can I salvage this.
TIA for any help.
Harriet Angulo
PS: Yarn is Heritage, Briar Rose, beautiful. PPS: I refigured shawl shaping, and it seems to be working, so far.
