This is a super project that long-distance family members can do
'together' to make a single gift. Nine individual squares are
knitted and then joined
into a single large plaid lapghan. Each person making a square also create
two pages for the memory book that is part of the gift.
8 stitches + 10 rows = 4 inches [10 cm] in Garter stitch (knit every
row). BE SURE TO CHECK YOUR GAUGE. When you match the gauge in a pattern, your project will be the size specified in the pattern and the materials specified in the pattern will be sufficient. If it takes you fewer stitches and rows to make a 4 in. [10 cm] square, try using a smaller size hook or needles; if more stitches and rows, try a larger size hook or needles.
NOTES:
1. The Jiffy Thick and Quick in our example happened to produce a pattern when knitted at the gauge and in the size square shown. Not all skeins will yield an identical result.
2. While knitting, take pictures of the knitter at work for use in the memory book.
LAPGHAN
SIMPLE SQUARE make 2 in (C) and 1 in (B) - 3 total Cast on 20 stitches. Work in garter stitch for 32 rows.
Bind off loosely. Weave in ends.
SQUARE WITH BORDER
Make 3 in (C) and 3 in (B) - 3 total Cast on 20 stitches. Work in garter stitch for 32 rows.
Change to (A). Work in garter stitch for 6 rows.
Bind off loosely. Weave in ends.
FINISHING
Assemble squares into strips as shown:
Strip B
Make 2
Strip A
Make 1
Pick up 54 stitches on one lengthwise edge of strip A.
Knit 6 rows, bind off.
Pick up 54 stitches on the other side of the same strip.
Knit 12 rows, bind off.
Repeat for second strip A.
You will now have strips that look like this:
Strip A (2 strips)
Strip B (1 strip)
Lay the strips out as shown and sew together. Note that
one of the black edges is wider than the other -- this goes
on the outside. You may find that the sizes of the
squares vary somewhat, particularly if they were made by
beginning knitters. The purpose of the black strips is
to allow some ease in joining the squares if they are a
little different in size.
Strip B
Strip A
Strip B
Pick up all stitches across the end of the throw (78
stitches). Knit 12 rows, bind off, weaving in ends.
Repeat for other end. Finished throw:
MEMORY BOOK
Each person contributing to the project is responsible
for contributing two pages of content.
Some of the pictures should show the square in throw
"under construction ", others are
'"memories" pictures showing the maker and person
who is receiving the throw. Add stories,
remembrances, captions, poems or personal notes to make this
a unique and personal gift.
ABBREVIATIONS / REFERENCES Click for explanation and illustration
9 Cousins Lapghan & Memory Book Reviewed by Diane Ladd on 2008-09-02
Everyone got in on this project (almost). Since a majority of my knitting is for a prayer shawl ministry, this, naturally became just that. And this time it was for my mother-in-law. My daughter, daughter-in-law and even my husband made at least one square. We made it in strips (10 rows of black,40 rows of a bright color, then 10 rows of black to frame the top. Then we only had to put the strips together. She enjoyed the shawl/afghan for several months before she passed away. Now the colorful afghan is at our house and reminds us of the joy she brought to the lives of her 6 children, 15 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.
When you are in New York City, visit the Lion Brand Yarn Studio at 34 W. 15th Street for a one-of-a-kind yarn lover's experience.
For more information, visit the website, LionBrandYarnStudio.com
