Smocking is a technique where yarn is wrapped around a specified number of stitches to gather them together. By doing this it creates a more textured fabric. The central feature of this week's pattern is a large, thick vine created by smocking and many twisted stitches. The smocking and twisted stitches stand out on a reverse stockinette background and are framed on either side by bobble chains. I enjoyed working the bobbles with a crochet hook to give them smooth clean lines.
Reading this week's chart was slightly more challenging. There are two-row repeats in the chart that need to be monitored separately. I found it helpful to outline each pattern repeat with a pencil. This gives me a visual barrier of where to stop and begin. I also use a large sticky note to mark the current row I'm working on, helping me to focus my eyes.
Next week I move on to overall patterns.
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