Steeking class was lots of fun. We watched the instructor cut the steeks on a Dale baby sweater (one I really want to make now, by the way!). Then we went to it, sewing and cutting our own swatches. I cut a placket opening on the Lorna's Laces swatch above. Wanna look at the back? Then I picked up stitches for a front band. And just like that, it looks all better. Now look at the the back. But wait, there's more! I also made a swatch with some mercerised cotton (Dale Kolibri left over from the knitted lederhosen). I cut an armhole opening into it and then sewed the other corner in as if it were a sleeve, making Frankenswatch! If you're feeling brave, check out the back of this one!

I have to say, I really enjoyed the steeking. Of course, they were only (s)crap stockinette swatches. But once I had machine sewed around the steek area, I didn't really have a problem cutting into them. I may wash the frankenswatches a few times, just to convince myself that the stitching will hold and those loose ends will stay put. Still, I feel like I'm ready and, more importantly, willing to do it for real.

So, now that I've survived steeking 101 and finished knitting the sleeves of the first Dale baby sweater, I'm ready to start knitting the body. Wish me luck!