How’s everyone coming along with their Deluxe Cable Collection knitalong projects? As I’ve been knitting along on my own Wesley Heights project I have already worked my way through a few skeins of yarn.
View of my back piece in progress:
I would like to share with you one of the best reasons for knitting with 100% wool, such as our Deluxe Worsted or Deluxe Chunky: the spit splice. Once I get into the right frame of mind, I don’t mind weaving in ends too much. But I don’t exactly enjoy it, either. The fewer, the better! By joining ends of wool yarn in the middle of a piece of knitting using the spit splice method, you don’t have to go back and weave these in later.
Here’s how to do it:
(shown in 2 colors for illustration purposes only)
Step 1: Split the plies from each end into 2. Deluxe Worsted is made up of 4 plies, so I’ve split it into sections with 2 plies each. Do this for about 1 1/2 – 2″ along each end.
Step 2: Cut or tear half of each strand about 1″ from the end. By reducing the bulk of each strand in half, it will make your join as smooth and seamless looking as possible.
Step 3: Place the strands together, fitting the 2-strand sections together.
Step 4: Spit! I have no qualms about spitting on my yarn. But if the thought of this grosses you out, just use a little water. Get the strands moist, but not drenched. You just need enough moisture to help bind the fibers.
Pro tip: Don’t spit splice light colored yarn if you have been drinking red wine.
Step 5: Rub the strands between your palms to create friction. Do this rapidly for a few seconds up and down the joined section. Tug gently on the join to make sure it has adhered. If it hasn’t, rub the strands a bit more.
And that’s it! You’re ready to keep knitting on your piece with the knowledge that you have 2 fewer ends to weave in later.
What are you knitting from the Deluxe ebook? I’d love to hear about it over in our Ravelry group.