My Scarf Shame

I am someone who can get an teeny weeny bit obsessed with making things just the way that I want them... Which is why for most of my patterns you see the final results, but I have a half a dozen failed attempts before they look the way I have envisaged. But I have never ever been as obsessed by anything as I have been about Moonstitches Rhubarb Scarf.

I first saw it almost 3 years ago now and I probably dream about it once a week. Its just the most beautiful piece of crochet I have ever seen. I tried everything I could to get the yarn she used which is Diakeito Diamusee Fine but as my luck would have it - it is discontinued.

So I have been trying everything I possible can to replicate it using every variation of yarn you can imagine. I figure by now I must have attempted it about 12 times, and just started another one last week.

I have now got to the stage I think if I just finish the scarf maybe I can rid myself of this terrible habit, even if it looks nothing like the one in the picture... but sure enough I finish the scarf and think....just one more time!

Now my love is even going to try dying yarn for me to get the effect I want. There is also a problem with weight as Diamusee Fine seems to be like 3 ply, so not quite as think as sock yarn but not as thin as lace... I drive myself round the bend!

So here are my latest four versions:

I know they are ugly as can be - I just feel compelled to finish them once I start no matter how hideous...

The first is done inDiakeito Yarns - just not the right one, the only ones my love could get hold of for me. The Second is Noro Sock yarn, the third is in Zauberball and the last is Noro Cashmere. There are also many attempts not shown....including ones in laceweight silk, block colors and one in pure cashmere.

This is my latest attempt - I had really hoped I would be able to stop after this one, but I already have plans for the next.

 

There must be some name for this affliction Rhubarb Scarf Envy?

And just to show my life isn't just about scarf obsession, here is a photo I took recently of Loch Fyne - I love Scotland.

But how much better would that day have been if I had the perfect scarf... sigh.

Comments

[Gertrude Sever]

I think they are very pretty, if you don't want them send them to me! I will give them a good home. ;')

[Potiron]

Congratulations on your book!!

Your scarves are very nice, with a real preference for the two bottom ones.... especially the cashmere. I don't find them hideous at all. I've also wanted to try this Rhubarb scarf for ever, but haven't gotten around to it. Between color choice and the rest.....

Like your friend above, if you don't want them, I'm willing to have your rejects!!!!

Beautiful Scottish picture.. never been there, and you make me want to go!!!

Cuddle up!!!

[Ghost]

To me they are all great and well done. I like two best.

[Lacey]

Um .. yeah. I'll take your ugly ANY day! :D Those are beyond fantastic.

[Sam]

Oh good (see previous comments), I thought I was being stupid, because...erm...they're not ugly!
I love the colours - yummy. Hope you find a version that satisfies you soon ;-)

And I love Scotland too.

[Therese]

I'm here to tell you they are diffently not ugly. I think they all are very nice. Keep up the great work.
Therese

[random Cindy]

Hideous? Are you sure you know the meaning of that word? ;-)

I understand why you say that they are not the effect you want but really, they are lovely. It looks to me like you need two yarns that tend more towards variegated and less self-striping to get closer to the effect of the original.

Perhaps try Etsy for some handspun? You may even be able to get some custom dyed.

Congrats on your book!! How do you feel? Nice to see you blogging again.

[Tracy]

If it makes you feel better, I found the yarn used in the orginal very scratchy. Goegeous, yes, but I couldn't wear it against my skin. (I'm not anti itch either)

[Butzeballchen]

I think your scarves are lovely. I was obsessed with this scarf as well and was lucky to find a couple of balls before it was completely gone. I think it is still sold in Japan under Diascenery. Do you know anyone there who could send you some? You might also look at Jojoland Melody Superwash. I thought they had very similiar colorways.

[Irene Kwak]

I actually like the Zauberball one. It's gorgeous and I would wear it anyday. Maybe I should give it a try as well.

[angharad]

Have you looked into blue moon sock yarn? They have great self striping yarn in unusual color combos...

[debbie]

They are BEAUTIFUL what do you mean...you can send me one and I would wear it with pride!!!