Small Bust Godsend shell begins!

So, totally stoked by all the positive feedback I've gotten on my idea for this project, I've sketched it up and begun swatching. The sketch to the left gives some idea of what I'm going for... that's me in a pencil skirt and this new Small Bust Godsend. As you can see, the body looks rather boyish up to the bustline, where the soft and gauzy fabric, through a few rows of dramatic increases, puffs out. The sleeves will the raglan, since tiny-shouldered people look good in raglan sleeves. Construction will be bottom-up for ease of fitting, actually... in this case, the knitter will know the desired dimensions for the ribbing, but may want to play around with how much to increase for the bust. Too much would be cartoonish... too little would produce just another fitted shell.

My first complete swatch is cartridge rib (have always wanted to use it, just because of the name! Hey, here's my chance!), worked on #4 addi turbos across 45 stitches. The color is "marmalade," of which I had some leftovers from a shawl made for my mom. The color for the garment is still undecided, and suggestions other than black (classic, yes, but working it on size 4s... ugh, the eye strain!) are welcome. After playing around with differently-size needles, I think the size 4s give the fabric the right mix of stretch and translucency; I'm not going for a "mesh top" look, but the nature of the kidsilk haze means that the top will necessitate a camisole underneath for work and a thorough bra or bralette for going out. Or not, you know, maybe just a jacket or cardigan for the more risque.

Or wear it with nothing underneath if you make it in a dark color and be That Person at your next party. You know the person I'm talking about.

Next up will be a few stockinette swatches and experimentation with increasing techniques. Stay tuned!