Welcome to week 2 of this month's CAL! This week we are going to check our gauge and learn the Trail Stitch.

If you missed the supply list post you can find it HERE.

Gauge!

12 esc (extended single crochet) worked in the FLO (front loop only) by 10 rows = 4” square (blocked)

I used a Furls Odyssey 5.5mm Hook but be sure to have a couple sizes handy just in case. If you're not sure how to make an extended single crochet it is shown in the video below. Like I mentioned last week, gauge is really important for making garments so take some extra time to ensure your gauge is as close as you can possibly get it to mine.

Here are a few simple tips to help you out.

1. Make your gauge swatch larger than 4” so you can measure in a few places. I aim for 5-6" square.
2. BLOCK YOUR SWATCH! This will give you the most accurate measurement and it will show you exactly how your fabric will come out. For my sample I wet blocked and pinned the swatch out on a small blocking board to dry but an ironing board will work as well. 
3. Wool is very forgiving! If you are slightly off try blocking your swatch again before making a new swatch.

Trail stitch Tutorial Video

Once you've got your gauge sorted out take a moment to familiarize yourself with the Trail Stitch. This stitch creates the texture of the front and the back of the sweater.

Here's the Trail Stitch instructions written out if you'd like to try it before next week.

Ch a multiple of 4 + 1.

Row 1 (ws): Esc in the 2nd ch from hook and each st across.

Row 2: Ch 1, turn, working in the FLO esc in each st across.

Row 3: Ch 1, turn, working in the FLO esc in the 1st 3, *eesc in the unworked front loop of the next st 2 rows below, esc in the next 3; repeat from * until 1 st remains, esc in the last st.

Row 4: Repeat row 2.

Row 5: Ch 1, turn, working in the FLO esc in the 1st st, *eesc in the unworked front loop of the next st 2 rows below, esc in the next 3; repeat from * until 3 sts remains, eesc in the unworked front loop of the next st 2 rows below, esc in the last 2.

Repeat rows 2-5 until desired length.

If you have any questions be sure to pop into the Fun with Furls group on Facebook.

Congratulations to the winner of the I/5.5mm Odyssey hook (see below)