Separating Sleeves & Starting the Body Livestream Recap
Hey knit-friends! It's time for the next exciting chapter in our Staple Tee KAL: separating the sleeves and starting the body of the tee! 🎉 If you've conquered those German short rows (GSRs) – woohoo, you're amazing! – then you're ready to dive into this super fun part of the pattern. It's mostly smooth sailing from here on out, with lots of relaxing stockinette stitch in the round.
Didn't catch the livestream? Don't worry, I've got all the details right here! Grab your yarn and needles, and let's rewind to all the fun we had separating sleeves and starting the body.
And if you haven't joined the KAL yet, it's never too late! Just sign up for the Staple Tee KAL here.
Please note that this blog post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking one of those links, I earn some yarn money at no extra cost to you!
Key Highlights
Pattern Updates: I gave you a heads-up about a small glitch in the increase plan chart (page 18) and reassured you that the written instructions on page 16 are correct. But I'm not leaving you hanging! We've already fixed the glitch, and the updated pattern will be out this week so keep an eye on your Ravelry library or Etsy inbox for the update. I'll be emailing you the updated version ASAP. No need to reach out again, I've got you covered!
Prize Submissions: Exciting news! I've seen some seriously impressive finished Staple Tees popping up on Discord (you guys are rockstars!) To make sure I don't miss out on any of your awesome creations (and so you can get a chance to win those sweet prizes!), I'm putting together a prize submission form. Keep an eye on your inbox and Discord for details coming soon!
Sleeve Separation: We talked about two different methods for separating your sleeves from the body – the classic waste yarn method and my new favorite, the Knit Extension Cords from Twice Sheared Sheep.
Starting the Body: We dove into the body section of the pattern, starting with a few rounds of knitting before we increase for the bust (if your measurements call for it!).
Try It On: I shared my top tip for making sure your tee fits perfectly: try it on as you go!
Calculating Rows: We talked about how to figure out exactly how many rows to knit for the body of your tee based on your desired length and row gauge.
Community Connection: We checked in with the KAL community on Discord and celebrated your amazing progress!
And that's just the beginning! We covered so much more in the livestream, so be sure to check out the replay for all the details and demos.
A Closer Look at the Details
Ready, Set, Separate!
Does anyone else find separating sleeves super fun and satisfying? You get to decrease the amount of stitches on your needles AND you really get to see your garment taking shape!
During the livestream, I showed you two different methods of how to put your sleeve stitches on hold:
Waste Yarn Method: This is the classic way to separate sleeves. Simply thread a tapestry needle with scrap yarn and slip the sleeve stitches onto it. Tie the ends of the waste yarn together, leaving long ends that let you easily try on your tee as you keep knitting the body.
Knit Extension Cords Method: These handy little silicone tubes are a lifesaver! Simply slide the sleeve stitches onto the cords and use the stoppers to keep them in place. When you're ready to knit the sleeves, it's super easy to transfer the stitches back onto your needles.
Both methods work great, so it's really a matter of personal preference. I love using the Knit Extension Cords because they're so quick and easy, but waste yarn works just as well.
Knitting the Body: Hello TV knitting!
Once the sleeves are out of the way, it's time to start knitting the body of your tee. This is all just stockinette stitch in the round, so it's perfect for chill TV knitting or taking your project on the go.
Tip: Not sure how long to knit the body? Try your tee on as you go! Ideally, wear your favorite bra with the type of bottoms you plan to wear it with to get the most accurate idea of how the finished tee will fit. You can also measure a favorite tee and aim for a similar length.
Calculating Rows: A Little Math, But Not Too Much
This is totally an optional step, but if you like to know how many rows to knit rather than just knitting to a certain length, this is for you. Here’s how to figure out how many rows you need to knit for your desired length:
Subtract the length of your finished yoke from your desired overall length
Then multiply that number by how many rows you have per inch (or 2.5cm).
Another way to easily keep track of how much you have knit is using a Work Until… Measuring Tape Stitch Marker from Twice Sheared Sheep! If you have one of those handy stitch markers with a ruler on the end, you can use that to measure your work as you go!
Ready to join the fun and knit your dream tee alongside a supportive community of knitters?
It's never too late to join the Staple Tee KAL!
Show & Tell Time (and a Gentle Reminder!)
You guys are blowing me away with your Staple Tee progress! I've been scrolling through Discord with a giant grin on my face, seeing all your beautiful knits. Some of you are even well on your way through the body! Seriously, you're all rockstars! 🤩
Haven't cast on yet? No worries! There's still plenty of time to join the knit-along fun. And remember, every finished tee gets you an entry in our prize drawing, so if you're feeling ambitious, why not make a whole summer wardrobe? 😉
Taking a Break? If you're feeling a little behind, or if those GSRs have your hands feeling a bit achy, don't stress! Take your time, listen to your body, and don't hesitate to take a break if you need it. We're all knitting at our own pace, and the most important thing is to enjoy the process!
P.S. If you've already finished your tee (you overachiever, you!), keep an eye out for the prize submission form coming soon! I can't wait to see all your finished projects!
Participant Interaction
Chatter from the KAL Community: All the Feels!
You guys are on a roll with your Staple Tees! The Discord chat has been buzzing with activity – from sleeve separation show-and-tells to finished tee reveals (way to go, speedy knitters!). It's been so much fun seeing your progress and hearing about your knitting adventures.
The livestream chat is always a highlight of the livestreams and this week was no exception! The chatter hasn't just been about knitting! We've been chatting about everything from needle cord lengths (16-inch seems to be the sweet spot for the body!) to carrying our knitting projects everywhere we go. (Guilty as charged! 🙋♀️) I love seeing how much fun we're having together and how supportive this community is.
If you're just getting started on the body or still working through the increase plan, no worries! There's no rush, and we're all here to cheer you on. And if you're taking a break to rest your hands (knitting can definitely be tough on those wrists!), don’t worry, I've got a whole blog post on the best stretches and strengthening exercises for knitters – check it out here:
Questions form the KAL
One question that came up a few times was how to tell when to switch to a longer circular needle. My advice is if you are having a hard time keeping your stitches on your needles, it’s time to size up! And a good tip to finding a good cord length is for you to wrap your circular needles around your bust. If it goes almost all the way around, that should be perfect! If it closes around your bust and then some, you might want to find a smaller cord.
And of course, there were plenty of questions about the pattern and techniques:
Q: What if I cast on my underarm stitches before removing the marker?
A: No worries! Just take them off now. After we are done separating our sleeves, the only marker that should be on our needles is the BORM. So feel free to remove any extras!
Q: Can you explain again which stitches to increase for the body vs. the sleeves?
A: Remember, stitches ending in "1" are body stitches, and stitches ending in "2" are sleeve stitches. The increase plan in your pattern will tell you exactly which stitches to increase on each round.
Q: I'm worried my yoke is too short. Should I add more rows before separating the sleeves?
A: Definitely check your raglan seam measurement again. If it's a bit snug, adding a few extra rows can make a big difference in comfort.
Keep those questions coming! Whether you're stuck on a tricky step or just want to chat about yarn choices, I'm always here to help.
Tip Top Tips from the livestream and on Discord
Check Your Row Gauge: If you're having trouble with the increase plan, double-check your row gauge. If it's off, it could be affecting the placement of your increases.
Label Your Stitch Markers: If you’re feeling confused on which stitch marker is which, then you can label them! Add some tape to them and write their designated code right on them to help keep you sane.
Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help: If you're stuck, don't hesitate to ask for help on Discord or in the comments below! We're all in this together.
If you're experiencing hand or wrist pain, take a break and rest. Don't push yourself too hard! Knitting can be tough on our hands and wrists, especially when we're working with cotton. (I've had my fair share of repetitive motion injuries from knitting – not fun!) So be sure to take breaks, stretch your hands and wrists regularly, and don't push yourself too hard. Here's a link to some helpful stretches for knitters:
Homework Time (Knit, Chill, and Repeat)
This week, your homework is to finish separating your sleeves (if you haven't already) and start knitting the body of your tee! It's mostly stockinette stitch, so it's a great time to relax and enjoy the process. Also, it's the perfect project to take on the go or enjoy while watching your favorite show. Just be sure to try on your tee as you go to check the length.
Upcoming Livestream Preview
Next Up: Body - Part 2 We Keep on Truckin'! (June 30th, 12 PM EST)
Knitting & Chatting
Next week, we'll continue knitting the body of our tees together. It'll be a chill knitting session, chat about any questions that come up along the way, share your progress, and just hang out with your fellow knitters. So grab your yarn, and your favorite beverage, and join me for a relaxing Sunday afternoon of knitting!
Additional Resources
Remember, taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your knitting! If you're feeling any pain, take a break and stretch. (I'm not gonna lie, I've learned this lesson the hard way after a nasty run-in with a repetitive motion injury a few years back. So take it from me, prevention is key!) Check out my blog post for some helpful tips:
And if you're still on the fence about joining the KAL, head over to our KAL information page to sign up and get all the details.
Bonus Tip! Download my FREE Gauge Log + Project Tracker! It's super handy for keeping track of your gauge for your Staple Tee.
The Staple Tee
Don't miss out on knitting the perfect tee! Grab your Staple Tee pattern now and join the KAL!
Missed the last livestream? No worries! Catch the replay to join in on the fun, whether you're #teamlive or #teamreplay!
〰️
Shop My Favorite Supplies
〰️ Shop My Favorite Supplies
Check out these tools & yarns that I Love (and You Might Too!)
Please note that this blog post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking one of these links, I earn some yarn money at no extra cost to you!
Twice Sheared Sheep
Ever wish you had a ruler attached to your knitting needles? Well, now you can! This clever little gadget is a stitch marker and a measuring tape all in one. Just slip it onto your needle, set the slider to the length you need to knit, and keep on going until you reach your mark. Boom, perfect length every time! No more fumbling around for a tape measure or accidentally knitting too many rows.
Arcane Fiber Works
Their yarns are perfect for adding a little extra flair to your Staple Tee (and they're pretty irresistible for any project, if you ask me).
Use code NEWWAVEKNITTING for 10% off!
Kollage Square Needles
The square shape of these knitting needles makes them ergonomic, which means they are easier on your hands, wrists, and arms! These are my go-to needles for preventing arm pain.
Use code NEWWAVE10 for 10% off your order!
Twice Sheared Sheep
Need a little extra wiggle room to try on your Staple Tee as you knit? Twice Sheared Sheep's Knit Extension Cords are a lifesaver! Just slide these genius little tubes onto your needle tips, and voilà – instant cord extension! They grip your stitches tight (even on the tippy-tip of your needles!), so you can try on your work in progress without worrying about dropping stitches.
How's your Staple Tee coming along? Any questions or tips to share? Drop a comment below – I love hearing from you! 👇
Relive the excitement of our final Staple Tee KAL livestream! Join us as we celebrate your beautiful creations, announce prize winners, and share our gratitude for this amazing community.