1. Where are these patterns coming from?
The stitch patterns are coming from a number of sources. However, most stitch patterns are coming from one of the three Interweave Press Harmony Guides: Knit & Purl, Lace & Eyelets, and Cables & Arans) or Beautiful Knitting Patterns by Gisela Klopper. Most of the patterns are then ''written'' by me. If a different source is used (ie- another book or Ravelry.com), I will site where these patterns are coming from on the individual pattern. If you'd like to know about a specific pattern, please email me (yearofswatches@gmail.com) and I will give you some more information.
2. How much yarn do I need?
Each swatch takes approximately 2 ounces of yarn. Depending on how many swatches you are planning on completing will determine the amount of yarn you'll need. For example, if you are doing one swatch a month you'll need about 2 ounces x 12 months= 24 ounces of worsted weight yarn (2 swatches per month will equal 48 ounces and 3 swatches per month equals 72 ounces of yarn). You can find out how many ounces of yarn on a skein on the label.
3. What is the gauge and is it important?
The gauge for this pattern is 4.5 stitches per inch using size US 7 needles and worsted weight yarn. As a rule, gauge is always important. BUT, since the finished fabric is not going to be a garment, as long as you use the same brand of yarn and the same needles though-out, you should be get the same size square. Please note that if you aren't measuring gauge, you may need more or less yarn then the ''recipe'' calls for.
4. I really prefer to knit from a chart, are they available?
5. What yarn are you using in your samples?
My samples are knit in Caron's Simply Soft Yarn. I bought it at Wal-mart and a skein runs less than $3. It is an acrylic yarn that lives up to its name. It washes well and doesn't have a dye-lot, so I can go back for more later.
