AboutLesley Arnold-Hopkins Expertise I can answer questions on all types of knitting on needles (ie not loom knitting) including Fairisle, intarsia, lace and basic knitwear design. I can also answer on crochet, including tapestry crochet, but I do not have sufficient knowledge of toys or stuffed animals to call myself an expert.
Experience I've been knitting and crocheting for over 35 years. In that time I have made a variety of items, incorporating a range of stitch techniques and have designed my own garments. I have had patterns published in the UK (crochet and knitting) and teach both crafts.
Publications Suite 101
Education/Credentials BA(Hons)Open (not related to knitting or crochet, but shows my highest level of education)
Question Is there any way I can use aran wool for a double knit pattern?
Answer Hi Pauline,
Yes and no, is the answer.
Firstly, do a tension swatch - see how different your sample is from the pattern. You may be able to use the aran yarn by simply dropping a needle size or two. However, the fabric produced (thicker yarn, finer needles) will probably be quite dense when compared to the original, and so the drape and look of the finished garment may be different. And make sure that you have yarn, as your quantities will probably be different too!
Alternatively, once you know your tension, you can reverse engineer the pattern and re-calculate the stitch and row numbers to match your gauge. Much will depend on the complexity of the pattern you have in mind - anything that is very fitted will be extremely hard to do. However, a simply shaped garment (drop sleeves etc) may work.
I hope that the above gives some guidance, but please come back to me if anything is unclear.
