Morwenna, I hadn't thought of that - it would certainly give it an unusal look

- but I fear I'd run out of yarn too quickly. Still, keeping it in mind.
The re-starts were after only about an inch of work (apart from the first 10x10 cm to try out the yarn, which gave me a scare with how much it used up), so no big deal, really - but still a bit frustrating.
Thinking now that I should try a simple knit-and-purl after all - didn't do that so as to save yarn, but I might just do it and if I run out after half a yard of length...well, I'll think about that when I get there.

If I keep it tight it'll hopefully look orderly enough, and be smooth and straight all over.
I know what you mean about not finding just the right materials - it usually takes me ages to decide on materials - good luck on getting the beige for the afghan! (If you know what brand and colour, online shops might be helpful - they are so tempting, but for yarns, I do want to feel it before I buy it.

)
In other news, a few days ago I caved in and bought a crocheting magazine with some lovely patterns for tops, jackets and stuff like that - I've never yet been able to wrap my mind round any crochet that doesn't go in rounds, so I'm nervous but keen to try.
