Last week I put the finishing touches on the first piece I have knit for Otis since his tiny baby booties back in 2013. This was also my first ever vest, which is easier than a full on sweater because there are no pesky sleeves to contend with, just stitch up the shoulder seam and call it done. This is the Little Shoreline Vest knit with Peace Fleece in the Mourning Dove colorway. Oh, and it should be mentioned that I found a fantastic button source in town aptly named, The Button Store. And in the interest of full (closure) disclosure, I may or may not have spent more on the 3 buttons than the yarn . . . ahem. I'm noticing know there is not really a great detail shot of them, but alas, Otis is FAST!
When I found this pattern I immediately asked Otis if I could make it for him and he was very excited that I would be knitting for him this time. However, I've been around the under 5 set long enough to know that asking them to wear said garment is an entirely different story. Once I had finished and blocked the vest, I hung it in the closet for a few days to give myself some breathing room before I was all expectant. After a few days, I noticed an opportunity as we were off to a chilly afternoon playdate. To my delight, Otis was so happy to put it on. His only complaint was that the yarn was itching his neck when the top button was closed, so we unbuttoned it in a jiffy. The vest held up to hours of play, both the active and contemplative kind. Because it only buttons up top and the rest of it is open around his belly and waist, he had plenty of room to move around just as he pleased. He loved wearing it, and at the end of the day actually said, "Thank you for making my vest, mom." I mean seriously . . . he said that. My heart has been swelling ever since.
Hello! I'm Liz Scott - mama to two little ones, maker, and all around curiosity chaser. I live with my family in Los Angeles, where we seek to fill each day with adventure, joy and creativity. I write about it all here on the blog. Thank you for visiting.
