I considered two different color options of worsted weight KnitPicks Wool of the Andes for this pattern, Avocado as the MC and then either Hyacinth or Blackberry as the contrasting color. I really couldn't decide between the more vibrant (Hyacinth) or muted (Blackberry) option, so I turned to the ChemKnits Facebook followers for help. They did not disappoint me, and encouraged me to select the more vibrant option.
Looking at the associated Ravelry board, I decided to make the size Small. My baby boy was projected to be big, so a 0-3 month (x-small) might not fit him very long. A 6 month size may have some more use. Plus all accounts on Ravelry that used KnitPicks WoTA found under 50g of each color was required, so I know that I'll have enough yarn.
I checked my gauge on size 6 dpn's. 10 sts/2", I think I'm good! I used size 4 needles where directed in the pattern.
I've gotten pretty used to the kitchener stitch, but I've never done a Garter Graft before. I was tempted to just turn the piece inside out and do what I know. Turns out, it really is just the reverse of what I've done before so it wasn't so hard. (Phew!) Can you even tell which row is grafted in the picture below?
I have no idea how big a baby's leg (thigh) is around, but I hope after making the ribbed leg openings there is enough space to help hold this turtle butt onto the baby.
When I read the instructions for the Grafted bindoff I was really confused. I missed the part of cutting the yarn and using a yarn needle. Thankfully the pattern links to a video that shows how the technique works. It does give a very nice clean edge for a ribbed product.
I created a twisted cord for the tie by twisting one strand of MC and CC and then letting them wrap around each other. The cord (4 ft - selected by the amount of MC remaining at the end) is too long, but I'm waiting to cut it down to size until I can try this diaper soaker on my baby. (In its current state, see first picture in the post, it could be a safety concern.) In the end, this pattern consumed 42 g/93 yards of avocado (MC) and 33 g/73 yards of hyacinth (CC).
The front (left) and back (right) of the turtle butt diaper soaker.
At the time of completing this project (Oct 2), I think this will be the last thing that I make for my baby before he arrives!
