The 2006 Knitting Olympics

Over at the Yarn Harlot's place, there are Olympic challenges being aspired to in the form of a long list of knitters who have signed themselves up to undertake a feat of knitting that will stretch them as much as the competitors in the Olympic Games themselves! The challenge posed by the Yarn Harlot is for one to knit something that will test one's skills and endurance to their limits. Casting on should take place during the Opening Ceremonies of the Winter Olympics (February 10th) and the project should be finished before the Olympic flame goes out (February 26th). That means 16 days! What challenges one person, of course, will be completely different to what challenges another. The important thing is that it poses a challenge to the person who is taking it on.

Now, I did say that one of my knitting new year resolutions was to challenge myself more and I did say that I wanted to advance in my lace knitting so, I must be crazy, but I've decided to knit a piece of challenging (to me) lace, probably in the form of a shawl.

That took me to Blackberry Ridge where I started looking through the shawls and noting their levels of difficulty in relation to my (non) expertise. Now, I absolutely adore this one which is rated as adventurous intermediate.

Alcazar, the Moorish Palace

However, not wishing to set myself up for certain failure, I decided reluctantly to forgo it on this occasion! I mean, I've knitted Birch and I've knitted River but that's hardly advanced is it?!! I want to stretch myself but I'm not sure what I'd be capable of doing at this stage and in that time frame. So, I'm looking for help from you. Yes, you, lace-knitter! You who are reading this now and probably chortling away merrily at the thought of me even having the thought pass through my mind of knitting Alcazar. Please help. Can you suggest something that I'd be ready for and that should be achievable in 16 days but, at the same time, will give me an Olympian challenge?! Of course, the opinions of those that don't consider themselves lace-knitters are also sought, please!