UK 4 ply = US fingering weight, I think. The 4 ply is much finer than the double knit. Quite a lot of the yarn doesn't even have labels on, but I think all of it is one or the other.

My one and only attempt at dyeing anything was a pair of curtains and it was an unmitigated disaster. Fortunately I like the white and it would go well in my living room. The new sofa is green, and I have a white coffee table and white fire surround, so I think white would look nice.

I struggle to find patterns I am confident enough to try. Don't forget this is the woman who spent three years frightened to try anything but teacosies and dishcloths I would like to knit a lap throw with a fringe, but it needs to be simple! I like your pillow pattern Anhata, and I have a couple of my own too, it's just a matter of understanding them How on earth do you know where you're up to? I lose my place all the time, can't tell where I am up to so end up unpicking it all and starting over. That's why I like the things where I just cast on and knit, then cast off
If I can find patterns I think I can cope with I might join in the Knitting Olympics.