Doctor Who Winter Knit Wear

Today’s the day. The twelfth Doctor is going to be announced at 2 p.m. EST on BBC America. As a fan of the show and all things Whovian, I’ve decided to share one of my first knitting projects: TARDIS fingerless gloves and matching scarf.

 

I began the TARDIS fingerless gloves project on September 8, 2012, having only been knitting for about a month or two at the time. I found the pattern on Ravelry, purchased a copy and began knitting immediately. I used size 4 double-pointed needles, Lion Brand Wool-Ease in Blue Heather, White Frost and Black. This was my first time using double-pointed needles and working in the round, but I would not let myself be deterred.

I was unfamiliar with duplicate stitch required for the detailing on this project, but another Ravelry user posted a link for instructions. They can be found here: Duplicate Stitch Tutorial. While working on the project U found that starting at the bottom and stitching to the top of each row was the best way to work these stitches.

Once I had the windows completed in the duplicate stitch, I decided to use the same process for the top panel in black before stitching the letters. The original design had white lettering over the blue of the main body. Although my lettering could use a bit of work (to say the least), I think they turned out rather well.

I was so excited about finding this pattern it only took me a few days to complete them. Not bad for having to sneak time while keeping an eye on my girls. And remember, this was my first project in the round and my first time using the duplicate stitch.

Once my gloves were completed, I found the TARDIS scarf pattern on Ravelry as well. (Did I mention I love that site?) This one is free! I used the same yarn in the same colors so the scarf would match the gloves.  I used the intarsia method to work the white and black design elements (for the first time, I might add). It might be worth trying the duplicate stitch for these sections instead.

I’ll admit that once the TARDIS elements were completed on this, I kind of lost steam with the stockinette stitch to complete the scarf length. I find doing long stretches of this stitch rather tedious and it tends to make me sleepy, particularly if I’ve had a rather busy day with the girls. Still, I managed to complete the scarf in just under a week, and ended up with a pretty nice set. I’ve worn both the gloves and the scarf several times this past fall and winter and I’ve received plenty of compliments. They wash up well and aside from the bit of curling on the scarf, I’m quite happy with my first Doctor Who inspired projects!

So, if you’re looking to add a little Doctor to your wardrobe, might I suggest these two rather quick projects?

As for today’s announcement, I don’t know whether to be excited or scared (I can’t really imagine the Doctor regenerating into a woman!) but I’ll be watching. I hope we’re not too disappointed.