I swatched a simple lace pattern today for the Gayle socks, wanna see?

And here’s the swatch from yesterday that is straight stockinette:

I’m not in love with either of them. The prettiest part of the swatches I’ve seen so far has been the garter stitch border on one and the ribbing border on the other. Thanks to my cropping job, you can barely see them. In looking at the garter stitch, I thought it would be stunning sideways. I have a sideways sock pattern, in my Socks Socks Socks book. The toe looks bulky and hideous in the picture though. Does anyone out there have a good sideways sock pattern? Or have you knit the pattern that I have, and if so, how is it? I realize it is a long shot, but it never hurts to ask.

So, I’m thinking about some ribbing. Maybe a lace rib? I get the feeling I’m going to be buried in stitch books for awhile. This yarn is pretty, but it needs the right pattern, you know? Like I said earlier, I love the way the garter stitch knit up, so I think I’m going to be looking for a stitch pattern with some purls showing. It needs to be simple, to keep from drowning in the busy colors of the yarn. Input is welcome.

In other news, I’m still swatching the Lily shawl. It’s so pretty. This may sound sick, but in a way, I’m kind of disappointed it is so simple. I think I was hoping for more of a challenge, without even realizing it. The border will definitely be something new for me, and I think I’ll swatch that after I finish the main body swatch.

I’m really not much of a swatcher. You are going to get the wrong impression of me, reading about all this swatching. I don’t know why, but right now, I’m enjoying it.