We apologize that the photo illustrations for this pattern are unavailable at the present time. You may still use the pattern following the written instructions, however we do not anticipate resurrecting this particular tutorial. We apologize if anyone is disappointed.
However, we have good news for Knifty Knitter fans. A NEW, IMPROVED soaker pattern is in the works. Our new pattern uses worsted weight or bulky wool yarn and a new technique to achieve a closely-woven soaker w/o excessive bulk. We like the pattern much better and believe you will too. As of 3-9-8 a prototype is completed and we're working out the finer details. We hope to post the pattern instructions (complete w/ photos, of course) here sometime this month. Please do check back again.
Super Easy, Super Fast
Loom-Knit Soaker
No Knitting Skills Required !
All you need is a round plastic knitting loom (I used the "Knifty Knitter" brand loom)
Pattern is for a size large soaker. Estimated to fit from 20-35 lbs.
Note: These pattern instructions are slightly modified from the soaker in the photo. The new pattern instructions have a few minor design changes: the shorts legs are slightly shorter and wider, the crotch is narrower and there is no casing at the waistband.
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Use thick and quick super bulky yarn. Lion Brand Woolease Thick and Quick yarn was used for the first sample project. I am now working on a version using 2 strands of worsted weight wool yarn (100% wool is best, but blends like Woolease or even acrylic yarn will work). Your choice of yarn will affect the number of rows needed to achieve the proper length (worsted will require more than 26 rows for body and 8 for length) and will also affect the closeness of the knit, the amount of stretch and the thickness of the soaker. I used the largest size (yellow) Knifty Knitter loom. Other brand looms will work fine, but you may need to adjust the number of stitches in the pattern sections if the loom has a different number of pegs (lg KK has 41 pegs).
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Soaker Shorts Using Thick and Quick Yarn
Wrap all the pegs, with a basic "e" wrap. Work approx 26 rows.
Now you'll need to count out 18 pegs for the first leg (leave on pegs).
Remove the next two stitches and place on a stitch holder (or safety pin)
for front crotch.
Count another 18 pegs for second leg (leave on pegs).
Remove last three stitches and place on a second stitch holder (or safety
pin) for back crotch.
Now work the first leg for 8 rows, working back and forth (flat). Remove
from loom.
Reattach yarn and work second leg for 8 rows, working back and forth (flat).
Remove from loom.
Now you will need to sew up the leg inseams and crotch (making sure you
stitch through each loop so they won't unravel).
Make a drawstring for the waist, either by crocheting one or braiding three
strands of yarn together. Weave it over and under through the top of the
soaker.
Done. Try on your baby. :-)
Note: This same pattern can be used to make "longies" or ankle length soaker pants. All that you need to do is work each leg to the length you need for pants and then finish in the same way as for shorts. (Oh, and in case you were wondering, we do *not* allow Chloe to drink Diet Coke. LOL! She just happened to grab onto a can . <G>)
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Now a "preview" photo of my next work in progress...
Soaker made from 100% wool worsted weight yarn, worked with two strands held together on large loom, woven "one-over-two" .
