What do you think?

**piperdbh** · 29th March 11, 06:29 PM

My unsolicited advice is to knit a swatch with the same yarn and needles used to make the sweater, measure it carefully, soak it in very hot (but not boiling) water for a few minutes, then take it out and plunge it into cold water, then measure it again to see how much it shrunk. Be careful not to agitate it, to avoid felting.

That's beautiful sweater, by the way. I have in mind to make one for myself, and that one raises the standard I'll try to reach. Congratulations, Thistlelass, on a really fine piece of artistry.

**thistlelass** · 29th March 11, 07:22 PM

Thank you all so much for your kind words. I will definitely do a washing swatch to see how the wool will behave. I personally like a loose fit in Men's sweaters. Very casual and I think it is a good look for Tom-especially with the driving cap!
Piperdbh, I wish you much luck with your knitting! I'm sure yours will also be a hand knit beauty!

**ksshane** · 29th March 11, 08:18 PM

It looks great. Wish my wife had those skills.
It may be a little big for formal events but perfect for everything else.

Just my opinion but I prefer my sweaters a bit oversized this way I can layer as needed.

**Chainsaw02** · 29th March 11, 09:29 PM

Looks like one of those that me mither used to make me. Large, comfortable and if ye put a heavy shirt on under it ye might be glad it's a bit big. The wife did good! Wear it with pride.

Larry Dirr

**ForresterModern** · 30th March 11, 01:50 AM

IMHO Arans are meant to be a little bit big and drapy, sloppy, on a man, less so on a woman, so in your case I think it looks grand and should tighten up just about right with a washing or two. They are meant to look a little baggy here and there, not tight or clean lined like a men's dress sweater (pullover for our UK brethren), they are a working man's sweater. Wear it with pride. And see if you can get her to knit a few more in other colors, as I think they look grand for a casual look with the kilt or everyday wear.

**biblemonkey** · 30th March 11, 06:11 AM

It is a tad big but in a casual setting it looks like it would be comfortable, warm, and nice looking beyond the normal sweat shirt. Very nice knit work. Not trying to be weird or mean but I was actually confused for a second when I saw the pants. Goes to show how much I think in kilted terms!

**Tommy Hunt** · 30th March 11, 09:33 AM

Yeah I probably should have put my kilt on. Will do later when I get back from Canada. I'm taking the oath of citizenship in Ottawa. Ain't that a kick!