Stephen West MKAL 2023 "Geogradient"-- Clue 1 Progress & Rolling with the Changes

[@carmenarckens7878]

This is my 6th MKAL. I finished the original clue 1 but after seeing Stephen so heartbroken I decided to start over. I even chose new colors, and now I am really excited to move forward and try to leave all of this behind. Your colors look great!

[@suemount6042]

Love the postive message on your post

[@ursaliafibresstudio7228]

I have to admit I was disheartened when the latest version of the clue came out, since I had already knitted it twice (1st time with some modifications, 2nd time with a lot of modifications but still using a section of the original, so it was deleted). I took a day to feel sad before starting again by modifying the final instructions, and halfway through it I fell in love with it and got really excited again for the MKAL. Afterward I watched the New Direction video and I was so sad to see Stephen like that.

[@gallifreyfalls1481]

I'm new to all this and I'm lurking, watching all the progress Your new square is really beautiful. It has a folksy look which matches the fall colours perfectly I initially thought the drama was a bit silly but having seen his new vid, I get it. It's painful for him. If I were knitting this I'd do the new square too, I wouldn't want the negative connotations and I'd be mortified if someone saw that symbol in a piece I was proud to wear

[@sticksnpurls]

First time finding your podcast by doing a "Geogradient" search 💛, and so glad I did. You brought a very peaceful aspect to the past few days chaos and high emotions. This is my very first MKAL and my first SW pattern, so I was disheartened as the controversy became apparent and loud. Fortunately, I had not yet picked up my needles/yarn yet as I was planning to cast on Saturday, so I was able to sit back and be more of a spectator instead of emotionally and mentally invested. My concluded thoughts from past 4+ days is to also move forward respecting the designer and his good name, but I do empathize with those who had already moved forward with early alternate suggestions, modifying the original pattern to deflect from the unintended symbol, but not being able to share - my heart is torn between them and Stephen's wishes. I have not listened to SW latest podcast yet (New Directions) but intend to soon - and planning to officially cast on in next day or so, enjoying at my pace. Looking forward to hearing from you again soon 🧶🧶

[@lynnmcentire4014]

Thank you for our positivity about this. I wish people wouldn’t be hurtful with their comments

[@brijettearis1625]

I’m a new knitter and this is my first MKAL. It took 4 tries, but I finally figured out the magic loop. 😊 Thanks for the positive vibes…subscribed!! 🎉

[@justabook3961]

The new clue also reminds me of a geode, which seems fitting given the name of the shawl. I've really appreciate the reaction he had to people's concerns and I'm excited about continuing on

[@carlamonico4739]

Hi Lucy: new to you and subscribed after hearing your take on the MKAL. Best take on the controversy I have encountered so far. The MKAL quitting adopted or entertained by some baffles me. Yes, let’s pivot. My square is at same stage as yours! Different colors. I purchased the PKU yellow gradient from S and P and it cost about same as yours + shipping. And Yes winding fancy yarn is stressful even with a swift and winder!!!

[@jacquelynsmith2351]

I splurged on some luxurious merino/yak/silk blend yarn, which really didn't cost too much since I got it undyed then dyed the gradient myself. It felted a bit during the dye process, which caused tangling while winding. It was NOT ready by Thursday, which I'm glad for now, because I was hoping to start immediately. I see a pinwheel in the original pattern, but out of respect to Stephen and everyone who sees something else, I'm using the new pattern.

[@KathiTrujillo-kn6qn]

Luckily I did not have my yarn before the original clue came out. I joined in with the redesign square, which I am loving! I too love to purl. Changed up the stripes a little, can't wait to see clue two.

[@autumngeishaknits]

I thought that you brought a positive and compassionate perspective to what is going on. I was on the fence as to participate this year due to time constraints but after watching Stephen’s new direction video, I am digging through my stash looking for yarn so that I can cast on in support of Stephen. Maybe a holiday inspired gradient because like you, I will be embracing my pace & probably won’t finish until Christmas. 🐢

[@Polly_Jean]

I am stealing the colour combination for another project, it's perfect

[@Hea-ther]

Your thoughts are just about where mine are on this whole situation. I didn’t really see the symbol but I thought, it’s just knitting, and this isn’t the hill I want to die on, so to speak. I’d rather start fresh with positivity

[@KBFibers]

I'm also knitting the mkal and I'm fine with the final version. Feel the same way you do. I also feel that some are over reacting

[@lorenakelly1435]

Yes I agree don’t want to get foster just knit

[@julianichols7513]

I decided this year not to do the MKal because I had too many sweaters on the needle. So I was not aware of the controversy.

[@dorisenderle5857]

I’ve not yet tried any of his patterns. They are beautiful, but I have way too many sweaters, hats, and mittens to do.

[@kimbryan2014]

I decided to make a metered square combination of 12 squares in a gradient from one corner....fyi the symbol was dasterdized by the Germans and it in actually a hindu religiuos symbol

[@unculturedpurls]

That sounds like a beautiful alternative!

[@dorisenderle5857]

One lady put rows of yo’s in the stripes.

[@CreatingHannah]

I do understand where Stephen is coming from but it does make me sad that my modified clue 1 is not considered part of the MKAL bc I really do like how it is working up and have learned a lot of techniques. I feel like inclusion is touted but only if its the “correct” opinion. Like its all about love and inclusion but not if you decided to modify the original, then you’re excluded. It makes me a bit sad bc I really did love seeing everyone come together to create new versions (which people are still doing with the new one which is so cool) but yea….

[@unculturedpurls]

Yeah, that part makes me sad as well. I’m sure your modification looks amazing! I guess Stephen wants to create a lot of distance between that original pattern and the final look of the MKAL.

[@saraw8503]

Actually it is Columbus Day.