The photo was gorgeous "Crispy Fabcakes" from Purple Carrot.

As I laid out all the ingredients, my tummy was grumbling and mouth watering.

After assembling the meal, mine wasn't anywhere as pretty (or appetizing) as the photo.

Going back to the recipe I realized I had missed the last step to make the Fabcakes golden (and pretty)

Have you had that experience with a knitting pattern?

Maybe you substituted the yarn or "did your own thing" for the finishing.  Your sweater didn't turn out quite like the photo ... ??

BEFORE starting, reading (and understanding) a knitting pattern (or recipe) goes a long way towards getting the results you want.

The designer may have a very good reason to include a specific technique.  If you want yours to look like the photo, it's wise to read and plan ahead.