Memorial Day

My American friends, did you have a nice Memorial Day? My husband and I tiled our kitchen backsplash, which has been bare drywall since we moved in and renovated the kitchen back in September. Luckily, this is the last big project for the kitchen, and having the extra day off this weekend allowed us to get it done. I also did quite a bit of knitting in the evenings, since I was so tired from the work. I’ll have to show you all where I am on Meridien in my next post.

My two grandfathers served in the armed forces. My dad’s dad was in the Navy during WWII. He was stationed in Hawaii and worked as a pharmacist’s mate. My mom’s dad was a Marine radio repairman, who was able to keep his bum knee a secret to enlist. I’m thankful for their service to our country, as well as the service of all former and current armed forces members.

I thought it would be fun to look at some military-inspired knits in honor of the holiday. The first one is simply called Military Cardigan, by Jessika Lane. Super pretty and tweedy, it’s a softer version of a more traditional military sweater. The large ribs on the button band help create the illusion of soutache across the front, from button to button. If you make this sweater, that button placement (on the ribs) is essential to create the look. Otherwise, it’s just a double-breasted cardigan.

Next is #32 Military Coat, by Helen Sharp for Vogue Knitting. Classic and keeping with our military theme, it’s a bit more flattering because it’s single-breasted. I like the long length and luxe collar, but the bottons really make this.

The last one, like the first, is called Military Cardigan by Veronik Avery. The picture I have is great, but there are other great detail shots on the project page. My problem with this cardigan is that I’d have to buy an entire book to get to it. I wish these book publishers (or designers, or whoever) would make these patterns available individually. It’s too easy to find similar stuff on Ravelry without the trouble of hunting down and buying a whole book.

Did you do anything special for Memorial Day? Do you have favorite military patterns? Show me show me show meeeeeee

– YX