Hooked on Knitting

A Satisfying Sunday

2010-12-05T10:23:00.009-05:00

Made it through my first week full time on the new job! Yay! There hasn't been much time for knitting during the week - too busy and tired! Yesterday & today are catch-up days - email, knitting, laundry!

It's cold today - time for the warm knits to come out in earnest!

I have been stash diving and making last-minute Christmas gifts, and a couple of small projects for myself, too.

More Anthropologie-Inspired Braided Head Wraps in Lamb's Pride (held double), a bulky scarf and seed stitch cowls in Lion Brand Big yarn:

Holiday cup cozy (my own pattern):

Chrysanthemum Dishcloths (pattern from Lily Sugar'n Cream:

I added the "Ravelry Member" button to my sidebar:

I even managed to find time today to visit my favorite LYS: Flying Fingers in Tarrytown, NY. I picked up some Burly Spun and Nature Spun for some future projects I have in mind.

Not a bad day!! :) Hope you had a relaxing, enjoyable Sunday.

Lots Going On...

2010-11-20T10:45:00.008-05:00

I have been a bit overwhelmed lately... I am in the process of transitioning from a part time job to a full time job (same company, same location, different position) and it's been hectic as I get used to the new hours and new responsibilities while wrapping up my old ones (including training my replacement). It's exciting, but stressful at the same time. I have slowed down a bit with my knitting, naturally, but have some small projects to share...

From the Purl Bee: I have been making these little urchin crocheted stones, useful as paperweights, also pretty to look at.

Purl Bee is a wonderful crafting site with so many creative ideas... I wish I had time to try them all!

I have also knit two Anthropologie Inspired Braided Headwraps for friends of mine (they are Starbucks Baristas)

(Note: I changed out the buttons after this photo was taken)

This is such a quick, easy knit, and I love the look. I used a double strand of Brown Sheep Lamb's Pride Worsted, which I happened to have on hand in the color requested (black). The headwraps are thick and warm, with nice stitch definition.

A couple of weeks ago I found a skein of Lorna's Laces Sheperd Worsted Multi in my stash (Child's Play colorway), and just knew it was perfect for another Very Braidy Cowl. One more item in my Christmas Gift basket!

Finally, I finished my second Windschief in Brooklyn Tweed Shelter:

My hubby loves his (the top one, in Wool Socks colorway) and he and my son took their hats with them today (my son's is the bottom one, in Embers) as they travel up north to visit Cornell. (Yes, we are preparing for one in college next fall... One important reason I am transitioning to full time work!!)

Today I am desperately trying to catch up on return phone calls, emails, blogging, etc. I can't access personal email at work at all (not that I'd have the time these days, anyway!!!) If I get a chance, I'm hoping to get busy on the Skulls and Flowers Mittens I've been wanting to make. I've barely had time to look at the yarn since it arrived! (Knitpicks Palette - it's so soft!!)

Have a great weekend!!

Let's Start Over...

2010-11-11T08:40:00.004-05:00

Well, after practicing my I-cord Cast-On for the Skulls and Flower Mittens, it was clear my yarn choice was not going to work. After visiting two additional stores in hopes of finding something locally, I finally decided to do the logical thing - I ordered the Palette yarn in the original pattern colors from KnitPicks. I have also been wanting a set of interchangeable circulars, since it seems lately that every project I want to do requires another needle size that I don't already have... I decided to order the KnitPicks Zephyr acrylic set, together with the yarn. Hopefully that will keep me going for quite a while, and I can always add another cable or needle size as needed.

In the meantime, I finally started working on my first Windschief hat. I'm using the Wool Socks colorway of Shelter yarn I picked up at Purl SoHo last week. I really like this yarn - the colors and texture are great. I just wish that there weren't so many bits of hay/twigs to pick out... it reminds me a lot of Noro Kureyon that way!

I finished the hat last night, and my hubby loves it! I made the large, and it is a touch looser than I would have liked, but he likes the extra room. I will probably make the medium size for my boys, which will give a snug fit.

Learning: I-Cord Cast-on

2010-11-07T08:38:00.004-05:00

I-Cord Cast-on

I started the Skulls and Flowers Mittens today, which meant learning a new cast-on method: the I-Cord Cast-On. It's pretty simple, but it took a few tries to get the right tension and rhythm going. It produces a nice finished, non-curling edge - I think it would be great for any item using stockinette stitch in the body, which tends to curl on the edges. Here's the method I used (from the pattern above):

1. Cast on 3 stitches.
2. 1 KFB (knit into the front & back of the first stitch), k2 (4 stitches on right
needle).
3. Slip 3 stitches onto left needle. (Leaving one on the right needle.)
4. 1 KFB (knit into the front & back of the first stitch), k2 (5 stitches on right
needle).
5. Keep repeating steps 2 & 3 until you have the required number of stitches on
the right needle for your project.

Another method (slightly different Step 3) is illustrated in this video tutorial here.

One suggestion I would make is to use straight needles for the cast-on (if you have the same size), and transfer the stitches to the DPNs for joining/knitting in the round when you are done. This will allow the knob at the end of the straight needle to hold your stitches on the needle, instead of periodically having to transfer them to another DPN for space as you go on.

As you can see, I got the hang of it pretty well. However, there was good news and bad news... Good news: I got the hang of the cast-on and was able to work it smoothly. Bad news: It quickly became clear that my yarn choice will not work for the mittens. The yarn is labeled "worsted", but to my eye looked thinner than typical worsted I have worked with ... NOT! I was way off gauge, and need to find another yarn to work with for the mittens. The store I originally went to (Hartsdale Fabrics) has a relatively small yarn section (it's not their main business), featuring mostly worsted weight and thicker yarns. The thinner yarns they do have are almost entirely in baby/pastel colors... Not what I want for this project. So I will probably head off to another LYS (Flying Fingers)later today for a fingering weight yarn.

I really do like the Elsebeth Lavold Cool Wool, though, and I think it would be great for another color stranding project.

Meanwhile, I continued practicing while I had my skinny caramel latte and pumpkin bread at Starbucks this morning. (Yum!)

I also made a crochet flower for the headband I am working on. The cute knitting bag pictured is from Knitty Gritty Thoughts Etsy shop.

Finished Scarf, on to Hats and Mittens!

2010-11-06T17:41:00.006-04:00

I finished the Hydrangea Stole I was making (Easy Lace Stole pattern by Arlene's World of Lace.) It's not the best photo in the world, but the lace pattern did open up nicely with blocking.

Right now I am working on a headband based on this Ribbed Beanie pattern. It will be a companion to the cowl I made a few weeks back, using up my last skein of Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran in the same deep blue. On the weekends I like getting up early and knitting at Starbucks while I have a skinny vanilla or caramel latte. It's a relaxing way to start the weekend.

I also want to make more hats, including Windschief, for the coming cold weather. Why is it that whenever I find A new pattern I want to make, I never have the right size needles??? I need to get more DPNs - size 7 & 6.

I am also joining a Mitten KAL - to knit a pair of Skulls and Flowers Mittens. Jennifer Thompson, the designer, has offered the pattern free to anyone who joins her KAL on Ravelry. (Her blog is Fern Knits.) It's such a cute design, and it's the first time I have attempted a stranded knitting pattern this detailed and complex, so this will be a good way to start. I'll have lots of people to ask for help if I need it! Jennifer also reports today that the pattern has gone viral, there is so much interest in it! Should be lots of fun.

I picked out my yarn the other day: Elsebeth Lavold Cool Wool in black, white and vermillion red. Can't wait to get started!

Purl SoHo

2010-11-01T18:21:00.003-04:00

While in NYC Saturday for the Greetings from Mochi Mochi Land exhibit/trunk show/tea party at Gallery Hanahou, I also stopped by Purl SoHo", a knitter's and quilter's heaven!

Purl SoHo

They stock Shelter yarn by Brooklyn Tweed, so I had the opportunity to see the yarn in person for the first time. I bought 3 skeins: Embers, Homemade Jam, and Wool Socks... great for hats for my guys (sons & hubby). Now to pick out some patterns... (Windschief will be one...)

I also picked up some fat quarters, for little sewing projects. They had so many wonderful fabrics to pick from, it was hard to choose!

I Went to Mochi Mochi Land! :) Happy Happy!!

2010-10-31T11:33:00.016-04:00

(Greetings from Mochi Mochi Land!)

I had such a fun day yesterday! I decided to attend the last day of the Greetings from Mochi Mochi Land exhibit/trunk show/tea party at Gallery Hanahou in Noho, NYC.

The exhibit was even more amazing in person... The details, colors and creativity were incredible. I had the chance to meet Anna Hrachovec, the designer and creator, and she autographed a copy of her book, Knitting Mochi Mochi, which I purchased at the show. She also spoke about her work and the creative process. All of the yarn used was donated by Cascade Yarns, and Anna knitted everything by hand... including the green grass table covering. I shot tons of photos (See my Flicker pages) and several videos:

(Anna Hrachovec speaking about her work)

Pieces from the show were available for purchase, and I couldn't resist the little Melted Snowman:

Although I was going into the city especially for the show, I added in stops at two nearby places: Pearl River, a favorite store of mine, and Purl SoHo yarn/sewing shop I have been wanting to visit. The city was absolutely packed - everyone was out enjoying the wonderful weather and shopping.More about these stops in my next post!!

Sweet New Pattern and FO Boneyard Shawl

2010-10-27T16:19:00.008-04:00

I began this post on Wednesday, but didn't actually finish it until Thursday! Anyway, I just finished a cute, quickie project to add to my Christmas gifts...

the Frosted Glow Cowl by Melynda Bernardi (French Press Knits). Melynda gives a tutorial on the luvinthemommyhood blog here.

I also finished the Boneyard Shawl the other day, and it is ready for blocking. The Bare Alpaca yarn is so soft... This will be a favorite shawl of mine, I'm sure.

Time to start another Westknits pattern... Hmmm, which one to choose next? I have seen so many nice versions of the Windschief hat. I'd like to knit a few, for my husband and two boys. I am waiting for some yarn I ordered from Little Knits - they have some lovely colors of Noro Kureyon on sale - I chose color #195, which I think the guys will like.

Well, it's getting late... off to bed! Be back soon!

Rhinebeck, Part 3

2010-10-20T13:42:00.005-04:00

One of the nice things about the Sheep & Wool Festival was that it was definitely a family activity. Aside from all the fair-type foods available, there were rides, including a merry-go-round, a giant slide (which we heard shrieks from on a regular basis!) and others.

There was also a mini zoo for the kids. (Entirely apart from all the woolly animals...) Among the animals were alligators, tortoises, ducks (including the original AFLAC duck!), lemurs, capuchin monkeys, and the big favorite: a mother kangaroo and her new joey!! The baby was 5 months old, and came out of her pouch for the first time after its birth on Saturday. (The baby is extremely tiny, and climbs into the pouch immediately after birth to finish growing and developing). This 5 month old was about the size of a chihuahua, according to the owner.)

The joey could be seen imitating its mother - as she nibbled on the hay and leaves, it was doing the same. Mama Kangaroo did not let her joey poke its head out for very long, however - it was a chilly and windy October afternoon, and she soon gently pushed it back inside her pouch to stay warm and toasty.

We could not figure out which of these little guys was the AFLAC duck, although the owner did mention he survived an attack by a fox! (Guess the AFLAC insurance paid off, LOL!!)

I can't wait for next year, to attend more of the events, including the Ravelry party (which we missed this year).

Rhinebeck, Part 2

2010-10-19T20:51:00.003-04:00

I fell in love with this little fellow at Rhinebeck - a sweet, caramel-colored Alpaca named Koki:

He was actually for sale, and we were told the price was $1,000.

If only I had room for him!

At another booth, there was a basket of alpaca fleece so soft, it was like putting your hand in a cloud:

My sister wanted to buy enough to make a mattress from it, LOL!

And of course, there was plenty of yarn everywhere!!

It was so hard not to give in to temptation and buy it all! Many people had large bags full of yarn and wool roving, but I have a rather large stash already, and settled for one lovely skein of incredibly soft Bare Alpaca in a silvery gray color (from Woodstock Knits) and some cute sheep stitch markers.

I am using the Bare Alpaca to make the Boneyard Shawl by Stephen West. (WestKnits)

Rhinebeck was FANTASTIC!

2010-10-18T16:06:00.007-04:00

I don't think I have ever seen as many people wearing hand knits as I did at the Rhinebeck Sheep and Wool Festival on Saturday! What a fun day! The weather was gorgeous, though windy, and fall colors were ablaze everywhere.

I saw many people wearing Ravelry buttons with their names and Ravelry User ID's... Unfortunately my sister and I arrived later Saturday morning (around 11 AM) and missed the Ravelry Meet-up. I loved seeing all the different kinds of sheep, and there were llamas and alpacas, even angora rabbits, too. I decided that I want to quit my job, and become a sheep & alpaca farmer!! :))) They are so sweet!

More about Rhinebeck in my next post...

Back to Lace

2010-10-09T10:38:00.003-04:00

Yep, time to hit the stash again and make a few more gifts for the holidays. First up:

This is the Easy Lace Stole (Rav link) by Arlene's World of Lace (Rav link). I'm using Knitpicks Sock Garden (discontinued) in Hydrangea. Arlene recommended large needles for the yarn chosen, and I'm using Takumi US 9 (5.5mm). (I originally started with US 7's but wasn't happy with the pattern details using them.)

Time for a few puppy pics - I haven't posted any in a while...

Maisy, the Little Princess, knows how to relax in comfort...

Spike, the Big Galute, is a happy guy now that he's recovered from a stomach upset and an eye infection...

Busy Week!

2010-10-08T21:58:00.004-04:00

It's definitely been a busy week, both at home and at work. I knit the Slipped Rib Scarf (blog link) by Stephen West, and I am very pleased with the results. I used two gray shades of Chaco (Ravelry link) aran weight yarn by Filatura Lanarota(Ravelry link), and worked the colors in a striped pattern that is reminiscent of some of his other patterns. I finished it this afternoon, and can't wait to wear it.

Earlier in the week, I made the Lush-ious Swirl Cowl by Linda Frydl. The cowl is in a pretty fall colorway merino aran that I "rescued" from another cowl I made over a year ago that I didn't like, so I frogged it. Unfortunately, I can't find the yarn info anywhere. I know I purchased it from Little Knits, but that's all I can remember. Seems I didn't like the original cowl enough to Ravel or blog about it, so the other details are lost. I am happy with how the Lush-ious Cowl turned out, but this yarn was too busy to show off the pretty swirly design pattern it would be really lovely knit in a solid color yarn with good stitch definition (as shown in the pattern illustration).

I also did some shopping online, buying more yarn from Little Knits and a copy of Teva Durham's book, Loop-d-Loop, which arrived yesterday from Amazon. I bought it to make her Braided Neckpiece scarf in particular, but I also liked a lot of the other patterns and ideas she discusses in the book.

It's interesting... I have been knit-blogging here on Blogger since June 2005, (with a few lengthy breaks, it's true...) and had been doing it even earlier on AOL (when they provided that service). As I write this post (my 200th on Blogger!!), I can see how my skills have developed. I've been caught up in lace lately, something I would not have even attempted just a couple of years ago. It's very satisfying to see how my skills and sense of adventure in choosing projects have changed and grown over the years. It's something I like to observe in other knitters as well, particularly the designers. It's fun to see how their interests and careers have shaped their designs.

Cozy Cowl and Matching Accessories Patterns...

2010-10-03T11:35:00.006-04:00

The cozy cowl(AKA, "A Very Braidy Cowl") I started yesterday is finished!

It is as soft and comfy as I expected! This morning I downloaded the 16 Sixteen Cable Hat by Circé Belles Boucles to make as part of a set. I just need the Size 6 needles to get started...

In the meantime, I found something new on Ravelry that's also a nice match: the Anthropologie Inspired Braided Headwrap by Jen Geigley. I could make the Cable Hat, or I probably could do the Headwrap and a pair of mitts with the yarn I have remaining (a little over 2 balls). Hmmm... Decisions, decisions...

Meanwhile, I have decided to frog a cowl I made a while ago. I love the yarn, but never really liked how the cowl came out, and I hadn't followed a pattern when making it. I am sure I can find something to make from this yarn that I'll love as much as the yarn itself!

I also downloaded WestKnits Book One (via Ravelry) from WestKnits. I love his patterns for shawls, scarves and hats! The collection in Book One is wonderful, and I also love Akimbo and the Boneyard Shawl.

So many things to knit, so little time!!!

Allium Blocking and a Cabled Cowl

2010-10-02T16:09:00.013-04:00

I received my lace blocking wires in the mail the other day from Stargazing Lily, and got to work this afternoon blocking The Allium Shawl on my ironing board:

It's coming along beautifully. In fact, in just a couple of hours it's almost dry, since it's by the open window and the ceiling fan has been on.

Meantime as the laundry is getting done I have been working on A Very Braidy Cowl by Maryse Roudier. (This link is to the pattern in her blog... the Ravelry link is here: A Very Braidy Cowl) I did talk previously about doing another lace scarf, but I wanted something fast and easy before tackling another lace project.

I had some beautiful Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran in a blue that almost matches the color of the Encore Worsted yarn she used in the pattern illustration photos. It is so soft and cozy, I just had to use it. It's a fun, quick knit (and also an easy pattern for anyone looking for a first-time cabling project).

If I have enough yarn left, I may take Maryse's suggestion and make the 16 Sixteen Cable Hat by Circé Belles Boucles (which inspired Maryse to design the cowl) to go with it.

An FO (and More Yarn...)

2010-09-30T19:39:00.004-04:00

I finished "Allium" (Ravelry pattern link) today. All set for blocking, and just in time, too - my lace blocking wires arrived late this afternoon. Wow, the Post Office must have heard me complaining the other day... They took only 2 days to arrive.

I also ordered some gorgeous yarn from Light Brown Hare (etsy shop) that arrived the day after I ordered it!!! (Which was yesterday). The colorway was just irresistible, and so perfect for Fall!

I have been knitting from my stash, as I had promised myself... I just couldn't resist adding some more to it... ;^) I am planning a larger shawl with this yarn, since I have a nice amount of yardage to work with. (Each ball pictured is 6oz/600 yards to play with!).

I have found so many great projects to make on Ravelry,I should have no trouble reducing my stash and making lots of great gifts for Christmas. By the way, I am also "HookedonKnitting" on Ravelry, too! :)

Beads and Buttons

2010-09-25T10:00:00.007-04:00

Well, it's been a little while. I finished the Yankees Foamy Shawl shown in my last post. Wearing it hasn't brought any consistent good luck to the Yankees, however I'm still hoping they'll clinch the division soon!

My current project is "Allium" (Ravelry pattern link), which I am knitting in Sundara blue (Blueberry?) sock yarn from my stash. I'm knitting on #6 Takumi circular needles. I am not sure why, but Takumi lists #6/4.25 mm on the needles, while most other places list #6 US as equivalent to 4mm (and the Takumi needles are a bit larger, according to my needle sizer).

I've also found a lovely scarf in Knitty that just begged "Oh,pick ME!!" as a next project: Kernel

I printed the pattern and have been gathering the supplies. I think I have found an appropriate yarn, Legacy Lace in Golden Sunrise (by Brown Sheep Company), which I got in Flying Fingers. It's certainly a great choice colorwise, but it is listed as "cobweb lace" on Ravelry. I will swatch it to see if it's too thin, but I'm pretty sure it will work. I wanted a tone-on-tone yarn, as in the pattern model, but couldn't find a close enough match. (The yarn used in the original pattern isn't available near me).

Next I needed the beads...

Flying Fingers had Gutermann seed beads which were a perfect color match (left in photo above), but the pattern calls for "#6 seed beads", which seemed larger than the ones I had chosen. Flying Fingers only carries one size, the really tiny ones. So I stopped by Hartsdale Fabrics on my way home from work (another store I love, and a quilter's heaven!) They had quite a large selection of Gutermann beads of various shapes and sizes (tiny seeds, #6 and #8 among them.) I got another great match in the 6mm Rainbow Beads, which I think is what the pattern calls for (right in photo above). I also picked up some assorted buttons from both stores which will look great on various knitting projects. (I just love unusual buttons, too).

My shawl pins finally arrived from The Shawl Pin Store. Seems the U.S. Mail has been very slow lately... and yet they want to keep raising prices. Anyway, I am very happy with the pins I ordered - they are a perfect match to the Lacy Chinook Shawl I bought them for. Don't you agree? :)

"Foamy" is Complete!

2010-09-17T16:24:00.003-04:00

I finished Foamy today. I added repeats of several sections to use up more of the yarn. After binding off, I had enough yarn to make a single crochet edge along the top of the shawl, to give it a more finished edge.

It was a fun, quick knit with enough variation to keep it interesting. I especially like the "foamy" stitch at the end, which gives the border a ruffled edge.

End of Summer

2010-09-15T17:08:00.002-04:00

Everything is taking on that end of summer/early fall look... The flowers and veggies are going to seed, and the leaves are just beginning to fall from the trees. The days are cooler, with a brisk breeze... Though I'm sure there's a least a few more days of warmer weather out there before we're finally done.

I'm progressing on "Foamy":

It's a fun knit, with pattern changes every few rows to keep you interested and on your toes. Hopefully the Yankees will get it together and finish the season in first place in the Eastern Division, though lately they've been losing more than winning. (C'mon, guys, it's just a bit longer, you're in the final stretch!! We need CLUTCH hitting now!!) ;^)

Fall is for Shawls!

2010-09-12T11:35:00.002-04:00

At least it seems that way to me... It's all I've been knitting lately! I finished Triangel, and was pleased with how it came out:

I used a total of 3 skeins of Koigu KPPPM, and with the little amount I had left after binding off, I made a tassel for the bottom.

Now I am going to use the "New York Yankees" Back to Basics sock yarn from Yarn Lust (www.yarnlust.com) (which arrived yesterday) to make Foamy, another triangle scarf/shawlette. Here's how the Yankees colorway looks:

I chose Foamy because works with the yardage (400 ydsand will look nice with any Yankees shirt I might wear! Go Yankees!

Getting My (Knitting) Act Together

2010-09-05T07:25:00.003-04:00

I decided it's way past time to clean up my act... Too many magazines, copies of patterns I downloaded, etc. I started to go through everything and discard the paper patterns and magazines that I know I won't miss or want to knit from later.

Next I started to organize my stash and needles/hooks on Ravelry... seriously. (I'd only put a few things on there before.) It feels so good to know where things are and to trim the clutter! Plus, with my stash in Ravelry, I am aware of exactly what I have... This is still an ongoing process, but already I feel a lot more in control of what I have and where to find something when I need it. Wow... I could almost open my own yarn store! I have really got to go on a yarn diet, and get knitting with what I already have!!!
The computer was next... I put all of the downloaded files on a separate hard drive (120GB). I moved my photos there, too. (Knitting and otherwise!!) It saves a ton of space on the PC, which is now a few years old and needs every bit of free space I can give it!

Happy Labor Day Weekend!

2010-09-03T09:30:00.023-04:00

Not much to report here today... I'm making progress on Triangel, and it will be my project for the long weekend ahead.

Still awaiting my Yankees colorway yarn from YarnLust. I'm hoping it arrives today. That will be for my next project... Pattern still to be determined.

I also ordered some pins from Ravelry and two pretty shawl pins from The Shawl Pin Store (which I found through a Ravelry ad). The shawl pins will coordinate beautifully with the Lacy Chinook Shawl I finished recently (still awaiting blocking, BTW...)

I used Classic Elite Yarns Alpaca Sox. (The color is #1881, unfortunately no longer available.) What a soft, lovely yarn to knit with! It's heavenly! I will definitely be using it in future projects!! :)

Finished Lacy Chinook - unblocked

Not much planned for the Labor Day holiday weekend, just some knitting, grilling and relaxing with family before the busy school year gets underway next week. Enjoy, everyone!

Triangel

2010-09-01T07:38:00.003-04:00

Lately I am into making triangle shawls and neckerchiefs... So, yesterday I started Triangel by Caroline Lang (available in Ravelry as a free pattern).

I am using Koigu Painter's Palette Premium Merino (KPPPM) which I bought a short time ago. I love the colorway because it's full of beautiful fall colors... oranges, reds, purples, yellows, browns. It reminds me of the changing leaves we'll be seeing soon.

This past weekend a friend and her family went apple picking. She brought back these luscious Fuji Apple Pears, which I didn't even know you could find in orchards here! Yummy!

Mindless Knitting...

2010-08-30T07:50:00.005-04:00

I finished the lacy Chinook Scarf yesterday (all that is left is the blocking), and still wanted to knit... Something simple, mindless - more about the relaxing feeling of knitting than an urge to make anything specific. I decided to knit up a simple garter stitch scarf with a skein of yarn I got as a gift in a knitting swap. Maybe I'll use it to do a knit-tag... I've been seeing how others have been getting into this craze... I have an idea of where I could do it, too... Hmmm. We'll see when it's done.

Here are a few more examples of knit-tagging: on a tree, on a pole, even a bicycle...

A Beautiful Day!

2010-08-27T21:31:00.004-04:00

Today was simply gorgeous... after days of much-needed rain, the sun finally came out, and luckily the humidity stayed away. I spent part of the afternoon on the back porch, relaxing and working on my lacy Chinook (see previous posts). Spike and Maisy joined me, loving the warm sun and breezes.

Spike

Maisy

The basil in the window box smelled wonderful... I need to pick some soon to make pesto... The tomatoes are ripening, and I finally have some baby green squash from my one and only squash plant. Ah, the late summer is wonderful!

I Can't Help Myself...

2010-08-25T09:00:00.013-04:00

When is the last time you swore to yourself "I'm not going to buy another skein of yarn until I use up some of my stash..."

And then... you saw a yarn you absolutely HAD to have, and despite your firm promises to go on a yarn diet, you went ahead and bought it anyway??? That happened to me yesterday! :^P

I saw a photo ad on Ravelry yesterday for Yarn Lust's Etsy shop, in which she sells varigated sock yarn in baseball team colors. The ad featured the Yankees colorway, and of course I had to snag it!! She also has lots of other beautiful yarn for sale and some cute stitch markers, too. It's definitely worth a visit to her shop! :)

The Lacy Chinook shawl is still in progress... It will be much larger than the one I finished in Naturally Caron's "Country" (Loden Forest),worsted weight yarn, because I have much more yardage in the lace weight skeins. I'll post a progress shot later today.

Here it is... It looks like a blob right now, because it will need blocking, but I've come pretty far...

I'm Back... :)

2010-08-23T12:04:00.005-04:00

After a long hiatus, I have knitting fever once again! This time, it was a lovely pattern that pulled at me to bring out the knitting needles once again. It's called the Chinook Scarf by Ali Green, and can be found in Ravelry as a free download.
I finished one already in Naturally Caron's "Country" (Loden Forest), a worsted weight yarn, and I am currently making a second in alpaca lace weight.

It feels great to be knitting again! :)

The Economy Hits A Few LYSs

2009-05-07T08:45:00.003-04:00

The tough economy has led to the demise of two yarn shops in NYC. My sister informed me that Knit NY (a knit/cafe shop) and The Point (Knitting Cafe) have both closed. The Point has taken down its website, so it appears to be gone for good. I never managed to get there, but I've been to Knit NY several times with her. The Knit NY website claims that they will be relocating soon - I hope that they are able to do so! It was a nice shop...

Maisy's Sweater

2009-04-05T16:26:00.005-04:00

Maisy was a rather tired, reluctant model for her new sweater. I based it on the one I made for Emmie (see my previous post). I used up the last of some Caron One Pound acrylic yarn in mint green.

In spite of her obvious tiredness in the photos, Maisy does like her new sweater. I don't think she'll wear it many more days now, though... It's 60 degrees today, and Spring is making itself more evident everywhere - there are lots of flowers out now, and the trees are ready to burst into bloom. Yay Spring!

Emmie's Sweater

2009-03-25T19:04:00.010-04:00

I made another dog sweater, this time for my friend's second chihuahua, Emmie. The pattern is from the April 2009 issue of Crochet World, "Walking the Dogs" by Treva McCain (the male dog sweater) (pg 46). I used a bright multi yarn because it is actually for a female chihuahua. I gave the sweater to my friend, for a fitting - to try on her dog, Emmie... (I made a different one for Bambi, her other chihuahua, in 2007).

It turned out that after a fitting, the measurements needed to be adjusted - the coat was too long. I shortened it, then added a turtleneck collar (requested by my friend) and a little ruffle at the bottom (since it is for a female dog). I should have pics of Emmie modeling it soon, too.

The colors were a big hit, and since it is 100% acrylic, it's machine washable, a big must for dog sweaters!!!

This was a super fast, fun project, even with the fitting and adjustments I made. Now I am wanting another one, this time for my "baby", Maisy!

Maisy

Eye Candy...

2009-03-15T10:20:00.003-04:00

Yesterday my yarn order arrived from Three Waters Farm. I ordered two skeins of their Superwash Merino Fingering Weight yarn, one in "Semi Precious" and the other in "Semi Pink". They are for the Ripple scarf in the Spring '09 issue of Knitty. Aren't they gorgeous, with their jewel-like colors?? They remind me of spring flowers (crocuses and daffodils).

I haven't knit a project on two circular needles before, so this will be interesting, and a bit of a learning experience for me. We'll see how it goes!

Phat Fiber

2009-03-13T16:36:00.005-04:00

There is a wonderful blog by the name Phat Fiber, and they offer a sampler box of products for sale once a month (through their Etsy shop) that contains products from various independent fiber, yarn and related needlecraft companies and artisans. It's their unique way of allowing us fiber/yarn customers to try a small sampling of their various products, so that when we are looking for just the right thing for a substantial project, we will already be familiar with the artisans and the quality of their work and products. What a great idea!

They are also currently sponsoring two givaways (click links for more info):
Phat Fiber Sample Box: Spincerely Yours and *Giveaway*

and another here:
Phat Fiber Sample Box: Dyed by Danido and *Giveaway*

Check them out!!

Spring Calls...

2009-03-12T17:20:00.004-04:00

Have you seen the Spring 2009 Issue of Knitty yet??? I was smitten with a desire to knit Ripple, the new scarf pattern by Lynne Vogel, and immediately ordered some yarn from Three Waters Farm Lynne Vogel Editions and put the pattern on my Ravelry queue.

In the meantime, I am searching my stash for a good yarn for the Lacy Crochet Kerchief by Kristen TenDyke (printed in Classic EliteYarns WebLetter. It's another pattern that will be lovely for spring...

Booga Bags - Completed

2009-03-09T09:01:00.005-04:00

Yes, my new washing machine arrived bright and early yesterday, as scheduled. So, after catching up on the family laundry, I decided to felt the Booga Bags I completed last weekend. It took a little more than one full cycle to felt them to the point that you see in the photo. I am pleased with the results, although there were a fair amount of fuzz balls to remove. The i-cords got a bit tangled, but felted pretty well too. The blue bag will be for my niece (we are celebrating her Sweet 16 in a couple of weeks) and the other is mine! ;)

I can easily see making more of these as gifts - they are fast, fun and easy to do. Maybe for Christmas...

Snow Day!

2009-03-02T11:59:00.006-05:00

Yep...No sitting out in the backyard anytime soon! LOL! The kids and I are taking a page from the pups, and just hanging out at home:
Spike

Maisy

Booga Bags

I finally finished all the knitting on the Booga Bags - I seem to have an urge to complete some of those UFO's that have been lying around - so I can start some new projects guilt-free! The felting on these will have to wait just a bit, though - I am in need of a new washing machine, which will arrive this coming weekend. In the meantime, I guess I'll continue with organizing my knitting patterns (I am scanning a lot from the many magazines I had accumulated, so I can toss/recycle all the paper. Plus it frees up lots of space on my bookshelves, and makes browsing a lot easier. (I have kept the paper copies of the patterns I expect to use soonest, so I don't have to print out yet more copies on more paper.) For now I'm off to work on more UFO's.

2009-02-22T07:52:00.005-05:00

Happy New Year! A lot has happened since my last post, most of it non-knitting related. As a result of an increase in my work hours, my knitting has been curtailed in the last several months, but I haven't stopped entirely. I completed two main projects, both for Christmas - a sweater for a co-worker (Kris Kringle gift) and a scarf for a friend. The scarf is the Sparkly Scarf from Crochet Today! Nov/Dec 2008, and the sweater is a shortened version of the Long Coat (#23) from Vogue Knitting Fall 2005 . More details on each one are in my Ravelry notebook. I also made a second scarf without the sparkles for myself!

Here Comes Fall!

2008-09-01T08:12:00.007-04:00

Well, summer saw a real drop-off in my knitting urges. I guess the heat and the call of other activities was too much. I did enjoy browsing some knitting magazines and even buying a few things, but for the most part I had little desire to work on projects. As I noted in mylast entry, I did complete the knitting portion of the Booga Bags (except for the I-cords). I am working on the cords now, so I can felt them together with the bags.

I've also picked up a Montparnasse sweater I began a few months ago, in Reynolds Saucy (cotton worsted yarn). I want to finish it, and then get busy on some fall sweaters (the yarn was purchased at a big sale several months ago, as a local yarn store emptied out its existing stock to make room to remodel). I have yarn for three sweaters, one to be knit for hubby.

Most recently, though, I have been crocheting a bit. It started in the car on our recent vacation to the Baltimore/Washington D.C. area and has continued since we returned home. I've made a market bag, and some washcloths and soap holders... Nothing fancy, just stuff I can crochet or knit without a pattern. One washcloth (granny square) was crocheted with a pattern from Lily. Sometimes, though, I just don't want to be bothered with complicated designs or following pattern directions, and I just play. Mostly this happens with crochet, because I am more comfortable improvising with crocheting than knitting. Do you like to improvise?

Booga Bags and Some Amazing Reading

2008-07-28T09:50:00.008-04:00

(On the left is Noro Kureyon colorway #154, and on the right is #182.)

I am working on the two Booga Bags as time allows. They are quick, easy and fun to do. So far I have finished one bag and started the second (so I can save time - and water - by felting them together in one wash load). I still have both I-cord straps to make, also.

Lately I have been doing a lot of cleaning, organizing and decluttering around the house and yard. I'm enjoying the progress I've made, and feel energized by it, though I have a long way to go. I really want to simplify my life!

I read a fantastic book this weekend, one that I just couldn't put down once I started it. It's called The Shack, and it's a real page-turner. (It's also on the N.Y. Times Bestseller List, which gives you an idea of what others think about it, too.) You can read an excerpt and learn more about the book at the link above.

2008-07-11T17:27:00.009-04:00

Well, I spoke a few weeks back about hoping to adopt a rescue dog. We did, though not the dog we originally intended to adopt. The dog that captured my heart initially was a puppy who had a broken leg - her hind right leg was useless. Apparently the "owner" had never bothered to take her to a vet when it happened - she was simply tied outside on a 2 foot leash next to a bowl of rancid food, and left there.

The local rescue organization that brought her here sponsored an operation on her leg, but it was unclear whether it would be successful. We were ready to take her whether it was a success or not (if not, they'd end up having to amputate). It turned out, however, that the vet who did the surgery also fell in love with her. She was in a position to give her far more than we could - additional rehab, surgery, etc. as needed, and this vet was determined to try and save the leg. With a home that great to go to, we couldn't be upset about not getting her. Instead, we adopted another rescue from the same organization, Maisy. Maisy is a 13 lb, 2-3 year old Yorkshire Terrier mix. She is as sweet as sugar, and quiet as a mouse. As we've gotten to know her, she has warmed up even more. She's friendly, cute and very cuddly... We are very happy with her! She gets along well with Spike, too, although they are opposites in so many ways!

Anyway, my knitting mojo got rolling again, and I knit two sweaters for her from leftover yarn I had - Lion Homespun in a red colorway and a blue one, too. (Photos below.)

I also got the purse handles I ordered, and the Noro Kureyon. I replaced the handles on a bag I knit earlier this year, since they weren't working well, and added some crocheted flowers, too. It's much better with these than with the old handles I had on it before. (They slipped off every time I put the bag down!)

I ordered 6 skeins of the Noro Kureyon (3 of each color), and I intend to make the Booga Bag, one for me, and one as a gift... probably a Christmas gift. You can see a wonderful and inspiring Booga Bag Gallery here.

The black wooden bag handles and a second set of bamboo handles are for other bags... as yet undetermined!

Hot Lazy Days...

2008-06-28T19:33:00.005-04:00

School's out, the temp's up, humidity's high... The knitting mojo? A little slow. I have been making a pair of fingerless mitts with leftover sock yarn, and "futzing around" with a couple of UFO's, but haven't had the ambition to start anything big. I did purchase some more yarn (6 skeins of Noro Kureyon) from Little Knits (who I found through their ad in knitty). I also purchased some rattan bag (purse) handles, to possibly use on an existing purse (I don't really like the current ones) and to make the Bramble Tote and/or Knitting Tote from Berocco. (Another stash project.)

Seems all I can muster energy for is mitts or socks, at least for right now. I do have the yarn to make several sweaters (including one for hubby) and an afghan, but big undertakings seem too much to work on right now.

I have continued scanning my magazines. Not only has it cleaned up the bookshelves a bit, but it also allowed me to come across more than a few nice patterns I'd forgotten about, which have now been added to my knitting queue - two reasons to feel good about getting organized!

Betwixt and Between...

2008-06-20T10:09:00.007-04:00

Miniature Rose

The weather has been all over the map lately - from a heat wave to thunderstorms and now finally some beautiful cooler, less humid summer weather - the kind I'd love to have all summer long. I have been out with my camera a bit (recent shots are interspersed here in this post), as well as going to my son's baseball playoffs and dealing with the schedule changes of the last weeks of school. We have also been preparing for a possible new family member - a rescue dog from a local animal rescue organization. This sweet dog has some health issues, though, and recently underwent corrective surgery, so we are unsure how things will proceed. Of course, as soon as it's official, I will be blogging all the details!

Weed Seeds

Since finishing my Takhi "Bali" summer top, I have been "betwixt and between" trying to decide what to start next. I have been playing with some Patons Grace and got my order from Little Knits this week, but so far nothing has "stuck"... I have not even made much progress on the Jaywalker socks since my last post. I have continued to scan my collection of patterns and magazines - what freedom and space! It is easier to search for things, too, because I've categorized the patterns by type. Now searching for a sweater or scarf pattern is a breeze! No more thumbing through piles of papers. I am only keeping the hard copies of the things I plan to make very soon - So I don't have to waste paper re-printing a copy to work from while knitting.

My husband has scanned a lot of his technical reference books, but I don't see myself doing that with my lovely knitting books. Those I will keep and maybe eventually swap, lend or trade.

"Hi!" from Spike!

F. O. - Takhi "Bali" Top

2008-06-09T11:49:00.003-04:00

This was a super-simple top to make. It's nothing more than two rectangles sewn together! There is a garter stitch border on top and bottom, stockinette in the middle (and on the front I added a center garter stitch column for interest). It's the soft, silky drape of the Bali yarn makes it work so nicely. You could also add short sleeves quite easily. It's so hot here right now (95 degrees today)that I left off the sleeves and kept it as a boatneck shell.

Two Steps Forward, One Step Back...

2008-06-06T10:14:00.004-04:00

I found these cute little frog magnets in Borders the other day, and couldn't resist them... since frogging is a concept I am quite familiar with! ;^)

In fact, my progress on the Jaywalker socks was slowed down this week when I found that somehow my stitch count was off after some stitches slipped off the needles in my knitting bag... But I am back on track and making progress once again. Jaywalker has been my project of choice this week, because it's portable and easy to do anywhere: at my son's baseball games, in the waiting room at the doctor's office, etc.

It seems that this area is headed for a heat wave this weekend, with temps well over 90°F all weekend. (Sounds like an invitation to relax with a cool drink and knit to me!) Have a great weekend, everyone!

Have You Had YOURS?

2008-06-03T19:20:00.005-04:00

Yes, I am making progress...I took the Jaywalker project with me to work today, because afterwards I had an appointment for a mammogram and didn't know how long I'd have to wait. Fortunately, it went very quickly. I must admit, I have been very bad... It was too long since my last one, and I know better. I have two friends who are currently battling breast cancer. My mother is also a survivor. (She took HRT during menopause, before it was discovered HRT could increase breast cancer risk).

Now this year I am trying to take better care of myself, by making those important appointments we women all need: mammogram, pap test, annual physical, and colonoscopy (for us more mature ladies!). We all know regular screenings are so important, and early detection of any changes in our bodies can make a huge difference in the treatment of cancer, heart disease, and many other illnesses.

Ladies, make sure you take time out to take care of YOU!

Good Morning!

2008-06-02T06:29:00.004-04:00

This weekend was a busy one. On Saturday we went to Long Island, to celebrate my nephew's birthday. Yesterday was another picture-perfect day. I spent some time working in the garden, and then continued scanning my (many) accumulated patterns printed off the Web. I am glad I kept my copies of Jaywalker (socks) and Amulet (necklace pouch), now that MagKnits is no more. From what I understand, though, the various designers who published patterns in MagKnits will be making their designs available elsewhere... The best place to check for info on that is probably Ravelry, unless you know the designer and can look up his/her own website.

Speaking of Jaywalker, it is already a free Ravelry download. I am working on a pair now, actually, using Koigu KPPPM. It's the third pair of socks I have started with this yarn in the last few days, knitting and frogging as I was trying to decide what I wanted to make. Finally I settled on a pair of Jaywalkers with the picot edge as described in Anna's blog My Fashionable Life. It really makes the socks rock, and accents the zigzag pattern so beautifully, doesn't it?

I also worked a lot this past week on my Summer Tee:

The front is finished, and half the back. I am thinking about whether I want the sleeves to be bordered stockinette, like the front and back, or all garter stitch for contrast... I haven't made up my mind yet.

Finally, I added Brisa (a shell from knitty) to my Ravelry queue. I think it will be perfect for the other yarn I picked up at WEBS, the Classic Elite Four Seasons Cotton. (Hmmm... it's been reduced even further now...) I plan to start Brisa as soon as I finish the tee.

Beautiful Holiday Weekend!

2008-05-27T12:23:00.007-04:00

What a PERFECT weekend we had! The weather was just gorgeous! I worked on my latest project, a summer top I am making in "Bali", a worsted-weight bamboo tape yarn from Tahki/Stacy Charles Yarns. I have never worked with a bamboo tape before, and this is lovely to knit. I really like the feel and drape of it. It's one of the yarns I bought from WEBS during their anniversary sale. I can't wait to finish it so I can try it on! It's going to be a simple short sleeved t-style, a bit of my own creation based on body measurements and gauge... We'll see how it works out.

I've been doing some cleaning and organizing of my craft space this weekend. My hubby bought a small but amazing two-sided scanner a few weeks ago, and I started scanning a lot of my stash of patterns printed out from the Internet. I had already saved some of my favorites from the Berroco and Interweave Knits Knitting Daily website onto another disk, so I can access them anytime. It makes browsing easier, and I don't have to worry if I lose or misplace the paper copy of the pattern. He also suggested I scan my collection of magazines, but I can't bear to cut them up... and I love to just sit and browse through them looking for new ideas and projects to work on.

On Sunday I visited my favorite LYS, Flying Fingers, to pick up two skeins of Classic Elite Alpaca Sox yarn, for the Lace Ribbon scarf from the most recent issue of Knitty. I chose a green shade instead of the sky blue shown in the model. I also picked up a pair of Brittany size 3 needles - they are so pretty and delicate, with their fancy ends. Now I have plenty to keep me busy - no excuse for idle fingers!

Sunny and Bright!

2008-05-23T08:04:00.004-04:00

Yay! Looks like we are in for a beautiful weekend! The photo above shows the morning sun on my basket of petunias... I am looking forward to a weekend of knitting, gardening, and other relaxing pursuits.

Here are the finished socks:

Now it's back to other regularly scheduled projects... I have a number of them hanging out in the WIP basket. Time to pull out a few and get them to FO status!

Post-War Sox...

2008-05-21T10:45:00.004-04:00

These are the socks I am making for myself after my Sock Wars III assassination. I am moving along faster with these than any other socks I've knit, I think. The colors aren't showing up too well with the cellphone camera - they are bright and cheerful - green, blue, lilac and purple. It's some sock yarn I had in my stash for a long time - Bernat's Sox in Hippi Hot. It is acrylic (I know, "yarn snobs" hate acrylic, but this yarn isn't bad). And of course I can throw them in the washer & dryer with no prob.

My sister sent me an email this morning - she was killed in Sock Wars III yesterday. She wasn't too happy with the socks she received, but I haven't seen them yet. I'm not sure how far she got with the ones she was knitting, either...

Here's a better photo of the socks taken with a flash, so the colors are better:

Kiss of Death...

2008-05-20T11:37:00.011-04:00

Well, I lasted a little over a week in Sock Wars III! The Package of Death arrived on Saturday, while I was out visiting my sister in Queens, NYC. I have mailed my target's socks to my assassin (yesterday) along with a few goodies. She was kind enough to send a bag of Hershey's Kisses (the "kiss(es) of death") and a lovely assortment of body lotion samples to soften the death blow.

Here's a photo of her package:

And a closeup of my cool new "Detonation" pattern socks:

My sis and I spent Saturday afternoon in knitting pursuits. First we hit a LYS that was having a blowout sale, to get rid of their large inventory before closing for renovation. The line was out the door at the LYS, and new people were being admitted as people inside came out. The checkout line stretched around the entire circumference of the store, but moved fairly quickly (they had only 2 cashiers). I spent about $65 and bought enough yarn for at least 3 sweaters. It filled two shopping bags. Others were buying up yarn for afghans, etc., and had as much as two laundry baskets full of yarn! (The store uses plastic laundry baskets as shopping baskets.) Everything in the store was $1.00 or $1.99 a ball (or skein).

My husband asked me to make a sweater for him, so I bought some nice black worsted wool(his color choice). They also had dark gray Wool-Ease Sport and a lovely beige wool that will make nice sweaters, but stuff was really flying off the shelves - more than half were empty when we got in! Still, it was a very productive outing all the same. Afterwards we spent time knitting our Sock Wars III socks at a local Starbucks near my sister's place.

So, now that I am officially "assassinated" and I'm no longer knitting "killer" socks, I will be returning to my other projects. I did have the urge to actually knit and finish a pair for myself, though, so I am doing those first. A plain, no-frills sock pattern, but in a cute colorful yarn from my stash - Bernat Sock yarn in Hippi Hop. I'll post about my current WIPs in my next entry, after I have had a chance to take some pics.

For now I'll leave you with a pic of Spike checking out the socks:

(No harm done - he didn't actually bite them! Just a sniff ...and a lick!) :^P

Wow, It's Been a While!

2008-05-12T15:34:00.007-04:00

Time sure flies - whether or not you are having fun, it seems! :^P I have been offline due to arm/neck problems, but I am hoping to get back into the swing regularly again.

The bottom line after an MRI and nerve conduction test is that I do NOT have carpal tunnel (yay!). I DO have arthritis in the cervical spine (neck) on multiple vertebrae. That is most likely causing a pinched nerve in the neck, and is the root cause of the numbness, tingling, and pain in the left arm. I have been going to PT twice a week (one more thing to do on my already long list, LOL). Included in the PT is traction, to help relieve the pressure on the nerve. So far Progress has been slow, but at least I don't have to worry about carpal tunnel and what that means for my knitting.

I had actually begun to knit a little again about a week ago. I started a summer shawl and another Montparnasse (this time in a summer yarn, Reynolds "Saucy"). However, that is all on hold now, because SOCK WARS III officially began last Friday! I have my target, who happens to be male, and I am busily working on the "Detonator" Sock pattern designed especially for Sock Wars III. Unfortunately, I have to knit a pair of large men's socks (U.S. size 12), which is something of a disadvantage speedwise. The "assassin" who's after me will have an easier time of it... Still, I am in it for fun, and don't really expect to last long - I am not an expert or especially speedy sock knitter. Once I finish my target's socks, I will be able to post more about my other projects currently on the needles. Until then, wish me luck!!

Koigu, Spinning and a New Fingerless Glove

2008-04-13T11:49:00.011-04:00

This is the balance of my order from Patternworks - the Koigu PPPM that ran out of stock. They were really great about shipping it as soon as new stock arrived - I got it Thursday, and it was promised by 4/15. I love the colorway - very Springy. Makes me think of Easter candy and spring flowers.

My wool battlets also arrived from Keri's Etsy shop on Friday, and she threw in a surprise for me - a lovely handmade and decorated spindle of hers (she now has a spinning wheel, which I understand is the next phase of spinning addiction...). The colorway of the wool is Carribean Sea - perfect name with all the pretty shades of blue!

UNfortunately, I have a new fingerless glove I need to wear - and it's not knitted! I have been having intermittent pain and numbness in my left arm, from fingertips to neck and shoulder blade. It seems after an orthopedic exam and x-rays that I have both carpal tunnel (in the left wrist) and a pinched nerve due to arthritis in the neck. :( I have known about both problems and had issues in the past, but with restarting my knitting in earnest again, they are resurfacing unpleasantly. I am going to be having physical therapy, and also probably an MRI (to see the extent of the problem in the neck). I am hoping that it will not impact my knitting too much - I love it so! I guess it's not the best time to want to take up spinning, either, but what's a fiber-loving knitter to do?? I'm hoping I can learn to do these things without damaging my arm and neck any further. (At least, I'm determined to try!)

Montparnasse FO; Magazine Goodies; Knitters with a Sense of Humor

2008-04-10T20:14:00.006-04:00

Montparnasse is done! It was a fun knit, and I really like how it turned out. It is just a tad tight across the shoulders on me, though, so I think it is going to be my sister's birthday present. (Her birthday is April 17th.) I am sure it will fit her, and I can save the shrug I am working on for another time, or give it to someone else.

This is one sweater I will definitely make again - for me! I thought of putting it away for the fall (by then I am sure it will fit me - my weight management program has been progressing along well), but I hate doing that. I would just as soon make another, and give this one to someone who can enjoy it now. Besides, my sister has complained about her cold office at work, so it will come in handy for her.

Kathy from Irisheyes was asking what kind of freebies have been in the Simply Knitting magazine each month. So, here are some recent ones: A CD book preview(with stitch library and free patterns); a purse clasp (issue had patterns and ideas for making various purses); and a knitting counter for stitch/row increases/decreases. There was also an issue with a free pair of knitting needles and another with stitch markers. (See why I am hooked???) Plus they have lovely patterns in every issue.

Finally, I have to share a fun knitting blog, which I found through the Simply Knitting website and blog... It's called Masquerade. It seems the knitters of Stockholm have a wry and wonderful sense of humor. They are putting sweaters, leg warmers, hats and mittens on all manner of statues around the city, and cozies on the lamp posts, too! Check out the photos and all the creative knitting... There's even a map that marks where the various items are located. I just love the fawn statue in its sweater and leg warmers... There are links in the blog's sidebar to check out all the favorites. Check it out!

Montparnasse Update, Reading, and... Spinning???

2008-04-08T06:58:00.013-04:00

Well, Montparnasse is nearly done. All that's left is the collar and a good blocking. I did end up sewing the seams to the outside, as the pattern was written. It looks pretty good so far. I picked up the size 9 circular needle yesterday, so I can start the collar anytime.

I also picked up some magazines and books at Borders... I went in for one magazine - Knit 1 - (yeah, right!) which they hadn't received yet. I came out with two knitting magazines and five books! =8^O Two of the books were for my kids, and all the rest was for me(!) I finally got a copy of Eat, Pray, Love, which I have been wanting to read after hearing how everyone loves it, and 1000 Places to See Before You Die (eek - is that my midlife mortality showing???) Seriously, though, I wanted ideas for places to go on vacations that we might not have known about (besides the ones that everyone knows about).

As for the knitting, I have been enjoying the patterns in England's Simply Knitting a lot lately, even if they do call pillows "cushions". ;) Plus, they always have these clever little freebies in the bag, and I am a sucker for freebies and gadgets! I also got Alan Dart's latest book of gift patterns (softcover, and also in the magazine section). He creates the greatest knitted toy patterns, which I have seen in Simply Knitting. Finally, with Spring coming, I saw so many pretty summer patterns in Knit 'n' Style, I couldn't resist. So, there you have it... (Yes, I have a problem with obsessively collecting knitting books and magazines...)

In the meantime, I also decided to make (yes, make!) a hand spindle to try yarn spinning. I must be crazy, but it's something I have wanted to try for some time now. There's a great website called The Joy of Handspinning: The Web Site for Hand Spinners, and they have instructions for a simple hand spinner. It took 5 minutes to make, and the supplies cost under $3. I can make a second one as well (which my sister has already asked me to do...). I ordered some wool batting from my friend Keri's Etsy shop, and I am just waiting for it to arrive to get started. We'll see how it goes. I've heard that once you start, you'll want a spinning wheel (quite an expensive venture), so I am wondering if I am crazy to start this... Only time will tell!!!

Oh, and here is an update pic of the shrug I am making - I hope to finish it in time for my sister's birthday on April 17th.

Mermaids and Secrets

2008-04-04T08:13:00.006-04:00

It's hard to blog when things you really want to write about are supposed to be secrets from one of your readers! <:^) I ordered and received a book this week with lots of great pattern ideas pertaining to particular subjects, but I can't discuss any more than that! The only thing I will say, is that Amazon is fantastic for finding just about anything you want that is or was in print, usually at awesome prices, too. I hear that it is causing book store chains like Barnes & Noble and Borders a lot of problems, though, because they can't compete with Amazon prices or selection. It's the same problem that local yarn stores have trying to compete with big internet discount companies like Knit Picks, Webs and Elann... Are we putting local retailers out of business by bargain-hunting on the Net? It's a tough issue for consumers trying to save money and local retailers trying to maintain a business. I don't know what the answer is, although I do shop both locally and online...

Anyway, one current project I can discuss freely is my Mermaid Scarf, pictured above. It started with a leftover ball of Berocco's Love It from the Skuld tote, and then I had to get more yarn to continue. It took a bit of time to figure out the pattern initially, but now I am on a roll. It's another great portable project, too, fitting nicely in one of the mesh bags I bought from Barnes & Noble.

The pattern, written by Sandi Wiseheart, is free on the Interweave website (with free registration).

Oh, and here is a photo of the Homespun/Cyprus shawl... I took it outside to capture the colors better, but to me it still looks a lot different in person. Oh well, at least you can see the progress and pattern... Have a great weekend, everyone!

They're Back - In New Colors

2008-03-27T20:21:00.005-04:00

One of my favorite organizing tools is back, in Barnes & Noble. It's a set of 4 nylon mesh zippered bags (for $12.95). As you can see in the photo above, the large size holds your 8.5 x 11 inch pattern booklet flat with room to spare, and can accomodate a pretty good sized project: here it's the sleeves of the sweater I am working on, plus a 3oz. skein of Paton's Encore. The 14" knitting needles fit diagonally in the bag as well. The next size bag has 2 skeins of Noro KPPPM, a pair of 9" needles, and a pattern on 8.5 x 11 paper folded in half. The smaller bags can hold your notions - stitch markers, scissors, tape measure, etc. It's a great way to organize projects in progress, and it's easy to see and grab one for knitting on the go. The set above is sage green, and I saw sets of red and royal blue bags as well.

The Montparnasse sweater is coming along nicely after the initial yarn mixup the other day. I couldn't bear to start the back over yet, so I started with the sleeves this time. I like the oatmeal heather Patons Encore, it knits up nicely. This should be a comfy sweater. Still haven't decided how I feel about the inside-out seaming, though.

AAAaaaarrrrgh!

2008-03-24T16:25:00.009-04:00

HOW could I do this? I feel so SILLY! Oh, well, lesson learned... Next time I'll check first.

I knit all afternoon Saturday, working on the back portion of Montparnasse. I was about halfway up the back piece when the skein ran out. I went to my stash to grab the next skein, and to my horror, all the other (7) skeins are a different shade! They are a light oatmeal color, and the one skein I started with is a slightly darker tan shade... But it is also not the same color as the camel Wool Ease (9 skeins)that is also in my stash. So what is this skein? Where did it come from? I honestly don't know... To put it simply, this rogue skein, this oddball, is unique... and therefore useless for the sweater! ~ SIGH! ~ So, I am now beginning the sweater again (in oatmeal). The partially completed sweater back is now destined for frogging. Perhaps someday it will have new life as a hat, or part of a scarf, or colorwork in some other project. For now, though, it's just a big pain!

Musings...

2008-03-22T08:41:00.003-04:00

I don't know about you folk, but here prices are getting ridiculous. Our local coffee shop has raised the price of coffee twice recently. A large cup of regular coffee is now $1.75! I used to buy my coffee on the way to work each morning, but not any more at those prices. Much as I love the staff and seeing my neighbors, I've decided to make my coffee at home again. And at work, we recently got a machine that makes coffee from special little pods (which you buy from the coffee company). They cost $12 for a box of 24 pods, which make 12-24 cups of coffee (depending on the cup size and strength you like), so it's still no more than $1.00 for a large cup. (I'll still fork out big bucks for an occasional Starbucks grande mocha, but I am starting to wonder if an espresso machine might be worth it, too.)

Which brings me to yarn... I LOVE yarn... lots of it... pretty... colorful... soft. But with yarn prices as they are, I confess I am a big bargain hunter most of the time. I will often shop the web and my LYS's looking for sales or discounts on clearance items. A few days ago I got a catalog from Patternworks, full of gorgeous yarn, patterns and ideas. After drooling a bit over all the scrumptious contents (the catalog is still drying off...), I found Koigu on sale! The Premium Merino Solids and Multis are $11.99 per skein, this catalog only (you can also get this price ordering on their website). So I bought 4 Multi skeins, using some "yarn money" I have saved (birthday money).

I also try to substitute yarns when I can, though I am not always sure of good substitutes for certain yarns and/or patterns. A good one, though, is the one I just started. I love the sweaters from Berocco's KnitBits Newsletter #206, which features their Yin & Yang Booklet #262(on my must-have list). In the newsletter, they also included two free sweater patterns: Montparnasse and Pasandra. I am now making Montparnasse in Encore Worsted from my stash, which I picked up at a LYS for $3 per 3oz skein. While not quite as soft as Berocco Pure Merino (which retails for $7.50/50g ball), it will still be a lovely sweater at a fraction of the cost of the original model. I am considering modifying the original design just a bit - I am not sure I like the inside-out seaming. I'll have a better idea once I see the finished sweater pieces...

I also hope to eventually make Wakame and Sanpoku from Booklet #262 - I just love the geometry of those sweaters!!

Spring Has Sprung!

2008-03-21T07:15:00.004-04:00

So why do I feel like taking a nap???? It's still quite chilly here, and very windy... I'm with Spike here (who's lying on the afghan/blanket I made for hubby). I haven't been sleeping well at night lately, and in the mornings I just want to roll over and stay in bed. Thank heavens for coffee!

Well, I was really happy to see that Knitty was on the ball and right there yesterday with the Spring 2008 Issue for the first day of Spring! :)

THe first pattern that caught my eye is the Lace Ribbon Scarf. So pretty and delicate! That's a definite must-do, and very soon! My other two favorites are Nob Hill (a shrug/jacket)and Spirogyra (fingerless gloves very similar to Mermaid Gloves, but without the individual fingers. The pattern is also similar to the Pomatomus gloves, based on the Pomatomus Sock pattern published in Knitty's Winter '05 issue).

I printed all three patterns immediately, and look forward to beginning the Lace Ribbon scarf soon. I love, love, love Nob Hill, too, but as a full figured gal I don't know that it would look nearly as chic on me as it does on the lovely designer/model, Ashley. Perhaps after I have lost a bit more weight (yes, I am on a weight management program!) and have a real waist, I can think about making it for myself. In the meantime, I can think about it as a gift project... Spirogyra will make a great portable project, and as a member of the Fingerless Mitts KAL, I am sure at least one pair is in my future, if not several (for Christmas gifts, etc.)

I got a kick out of Paw Cozy, too. It's a very creative solution to keeping your hands warm while walking the dog, if you use a retractable leash.

Magknit's latest issue is also up, with the most adorable little girl's dress, Miss Muffet, on the front page. They have some other fun patterns, too.

What do YOU like? What's your next project?

Finishing For Skuld

2008-03-19T20:34:00.004-04:00

Here is the Skuld tote (from Norah Gaughan, Vol.2). , with added reinforcement to the strap (cotton canvas strapping) and paisley fabric lining in a coordinating color. I also used upholstery thread for all the sewing, including the buttons and strap attachment. It has a nice look and is very sturdy, so it will withstand a lot more use, stress and weight. These added details give a more finished look to the project and also prevent the bag from stretching out of shape from the weight of the contents.

Now it's back to the somewhat neglected shrug and shawl! (They must be feeling like orphans after being ignored for a few weeks!)

Mini Contest Winner; More on Skuld

2008-03-18T10:02:00.005-04:00

Congratulations to Kathy of Irisheyes knitting blog! She is the winner of the mini contest in honor of my 150th post! As soon as I receive her mailing address, I will send her a prize package in the mail. (There were six comments, for which I numbered 6 slips of paper. I put them in a cup, shook it, and drew out #4, for the 4th post - Kathy's post.)

Yesterday I went shopping for fabric and other supplies to finish skuld. I decided to line the bag with fabric (and include inside pockets in the lining) and also to line the strap for support. This will not only give the bag a more finished look, it will prevent the strap and bag from stretching too much from the weight of the contents. I bought woven canvas strapping (used for belts) to line the strap. I chose a pretty green and off-white paisley for the lining, with enough fabric to line the bag in a double thickness, and add pockets. Photos of these are above and below.

Skuld is Done; Cute Tote ~ A Great Find!

2008-03-16T21:04:00.009-04:00

I just completed Skuld from Norah Gaughan, Vol.2. It was a very quick and fun knit. I do want to line the finished bag, but all the knitting is complete. I like the patterns in this booklet a lot, particularly Acton, Currer and Aramis. I would also like to eventually make Urth, which is a two-color version of Skuld.

Skuld kind of took over and quickly became my main/fave project of the moment, with the result that the other WIP's haven't shown much progress... The Basic Ribbed Socks (pattern in Vogue Knitting on the Go - Socks Two) have been almost at a standstill... but I just noticed how nicely the yarn color matches the project bag they're in ~ the one I bought from Keri through her Etsy shop. By the way, she's got more project bags there now, and the fabric is adorable - cute little sock monkeys on pogo sticks! :) What a great gift for an avid sock knitter!

I found a cute bag that was perfect size for a larger knitting project like Skuld... It's a drawstring tote that kids often use for school. The fabric is nylon, and the bag is also lined with a small pocket for a wallet and keys. The knitting booklet, yarn and WIP fit inside nicely - with maybe room for a smaller project like socks as well. I picked it up at Borders. They had a number of prints, and I liked this best. Even better, when I got to the register it was 50% off! It ended up costing less than $6 including tax. Not bad!

Tomorrow I will pick a winner for the mini-contest. We'll see who the lucky commenter is...

Post # 150! Mini Contest!

2008-03-10T10:56:00.005-04:00

I have been working diligently on Skuld, and the project is shaping up nicely. It should be ready for use in Spring (which, thankfully, is very soon!)

So, today I reach my 150th post! To mark the occasion, I will send a commenter a few small goodies! Come out, lurkers, and say hello! The names of all who post comments on this blog entry through Sunday, March 16, will go into a drawing, and the winner will receive a surprise package in the mail.

If you really like contests, irisheyes found a blog that lists many, many knitting contests: visit WiKnit:The Knitting Contest Blog! I just entered a contest they have listed, run by Enchanted Yarn and Fiber. They are opening a new yarn shop, and have some questions about knitters' yarn shop preferences. Post yours, and you may win one of the wonderful prizes they are offering.

Hello there! :)

2008-03-02T07:59:00.009-05:00

I've been on the computer a lot less lately... I seem to go through phases where other things keep me away, and there's also a lot of competition for it with two teenagers in the house as well!

I finished a couple of hats using up several colors of yarn I had left over from other projects. Right now I have a bunch of things on the needles. I'm working on another pair of Ribbed Socks in Sundara "Guava" sock yarn, and then plan to make a lace pair with the Royal color I bought as well. (I have to gear up for Sock Wars III!)

Last week I got the latest Berroco Knit Bits newsletter, and fell in love with so many things in it! I decided to buy Norah Gaughgan Vol 2, and the supplies for the Skuld tote, too. I started that yesterday as soon as I got back from the yarn store. Unfortunately they didn't have the yarn shade used in the pattern photo, but I was able to get a lovely sage green that is more muted. This is the first relatively large project I am doing from a chart, and it's very easy to follow. There are a number of beautiful tops in the booklet that I want to make as well. I just wish the yarns weren't quite so expensive! ~sigh~ ... but "Love It" is fabulous to work with!

Still pluggin' away at the shawl and shrug, too, but these newer projects are a lot more fun and interesting!

Oddball Knitting...

2008-02-23T08:02:00.005-05:00

Wow, I have been so busy, I haven't had much time for the PC, let alone blogging. They also took away access at work, so there's no chance of sneaking in an update from there.

After finishing the Ribbed Socks, I haven't done much knitting... I think I needed a bit of a break before plunging into more projects. I have been using up some odd balls and skeins of yarn to make a few caps, and I am continuing work on the shawl and shrug.

I also just finished signing up for Sock Wars III. My sister is participating, and urged me to join, too. I bought some more sock yarn from Sundara, to get in shape for the coming challenge... I am a little nervous, because it involves knitting a never-seen-before sock pattern for someone else. I hope it isn't too complicated!

Sundara Sock Yarns: "Guava" and "Royal"

We had a good 6" of snow yesterday, and I stayed home from work. The roads weren't great, and I just didn't see the point of venturing out, particularly when they said the snow would continue or change to sleet... It ended in late afternoon, and I went out to shovel with one of my sons. Afterwards we went to Starbuck for a skiiny mocha (me)and hot chocolate (him). It was clear that most of the stores in the mall hadn't opened, either. The barista said they were the only Starbucks open in the area as well. (Lucky for us!) THe kids are all enjoying it, though they feel that they were cheated, because the snow fell during winter break, meaning no "extra" day off from school! Ah, the good old days! ;)

New Book on Felting: " i ♥ felt"

2008-02-18T07:59:00.010-05:00

A couple of weeks ago, I was contacted by Taunton Publishing, and asked if I would like to review a new book they are publishing this month. I agreed, and they sent me a preview copy. The book is i ♥ felt: 33 Eye-Popping Projects for the Inspired Knitter, (Paperback) by Kathleen Taylor (author of Knit One, Felt Too).

The first section of the book covers the basics of felting in detail, from tools and instructions to helpful tips. Taylor also emphasizes the importance of swatching and keeping a journal. Swatching has a dual purpose here. It is not just to determine your knitting gauge; it is also critical because felting the swatch allows you to see exactly how the yarn(s) you have selected will behave, and gives you a valuable preview of the finished project - before investing significant time, money and yarn.

A felting journal is not only a nice record of completed projects... Properly kept, as Taylor demonstrates, it is valuable tool for replicating results you want to repeat, and avoiding mistakes you don't! It can also be springboard for creativity as you experiment with different yarns and felting techniques (such as needle felting).

Taylor's instructions and patterns are clear, concise, and easy to follow. After reviewing the basics, the balance of the book explores a variety of fun and colorful projects designed to spark your imagination. Felting can be something far more creative and varied in results than just shrinking your knitting. There are projects of all sizes, from bookmarks, mittens and slippers to sweaters, coats and totes. The photographs are big and beautiful, and the colorful yarn choices are anything but dull and ordinary. She takes felting in a variety of directions that many knitters may not have thought about before - including felting intarsia - with eye-catching results. I particularly like her combination of felted and unfelted sections within a single project, such as her Evergreen Cabled Jacket for women.

There is a section on troubleshooting, should something turn out differently than expected (which as many of us know, can happen more than we'd care to admit!). She offers creative fixes for common problems, and also shows how your felting journal can help you avoid typical pitfalls in felted projects.

Overall, Taylor has put together a wonderful book, one that is both an excellent primer for the novice and a creative resource for the experienced felter looking to expand the craft in new directions - a valuable addition to any knitter's library!

NOTE: i ♥ felt: 33 Eye-Popping Projects for the Inspired Knitter, (Paperback) by Kathleen Taylor will be available February 19. (You can also pre-order it now at Amazon.com)

Knitting with a New Purpose...

2008-02-03T14:07:00.001-05:00

The Homespun basketweave shawl I started recently was something I planned as either a personal item or a gift - I don't always know what I am going to with my knits when they are finished. It found its purpose a few days ago, however.

My husband got together with some friends from a former job one night this week, sort of a reunion. It was arranged in part by a colleague/friend of his we have known since just before my husband and I got married. This couple became closer friends of ours when they moved from Brooklyn and bought a home in our area, but over the years we have kept in touch a bit less, as we got involved in different circles, had children of different ages, in different school systems, and especially after I returned to work part time. We keep in touch but less often, though we still consider each other good friends.

My husband traveled home from the reunion with his friend, who shared some sad and disturbing news... his wife, my friend, was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. It was confirmed to have spread to the lymph nodes. The doctors remain optimistic, however, about her prognosis. They do say, though, that it will be a road with some very rough patches at times. She has already begun chemo and radiation treatment.

Needless to say, my husband and I were shocked and very upset. My response was to go to my local yarn store and find the softest, prettiest yarns I could find, and start some chemo caps. I also decided that my latest homespun shawl will also be for her - the yarn is so soft, washes easily, and comes out even softer from the dryer. I'm glad I had already started on it, so hopefully I can finish it quickly for her.

The yarn I chose for the caps is Lorna's Laces Shepard Chunky (Tickled Pink) and Shepard Worsted (Child's Play) superwash merino yarns. The colors are so pretty and bright, and the yarn is incredibly soft. I finished a Shepard Chunky cap, and I'm going to be starting another one in a different style with the Shepard Worsted.

I also ordered a swift and ball winder earlier in the week. That should help with all the lace yarn I have to wind... In the meantime, the Sundara yarn I ordered arrived so quickly! I wound it by hand, and started a pair of socks already. I'm following a Basic Ribbed Socks pattern in Vogue Knitting on the Go - Socks Two. I like knitting socks - they are such a treat to wear, and last much longer than the ones you buy in the stores.

So my needles are quite full at the moment, and I have plenty of variety in knitting to keep me busy as well.

WIPs

2008-01-28T13:40:00.000-05:00

Well, first I must be honest... I have not yet cast on for the Wavy Feathers Smokering I decided to make, in spite of what I say on Ravelry. I was winding the lace yarn and very near the end, when I somehow ended up with a tangled mess. ~ Sigh... ~ I didn't have the skein on a chair back or anything, but all was going fine until things suddenly pulled together in a ball and before I knew it, it was too late. I may need to buy a skein/ball winder. Lace skeins have just too much yardage to wind by hand, especially considering that I bought a total of 15 skeins from Knit Picks!!!

In the meantime, the shrug is progressing OK. It will be a little different than the original pattern, because I am doing garter stitch across the shoulders and back, and stockinette only for the sleeves. I always find myself making little changes with basic, simple patterns like these... I guess it's my way of making the finished project just a little more unique, and the knitting a bit more varied and interesting. Some might also say I just can't leave well enough alone... :)

I have also cast on to make another Homespun shawl, this time in the Cyprus colorway. It's a little difficult to see in the photo, but there is a garter stitch border all around, and a basketweave stitch center. The colors are a little off in this photo; the photo in my Ravelry stash (also on Flickr)is much more accurate.

I also received an email from Sundara - there was a batch of new sock yarn colors put up for sale this past Saturday. As might be expected, a lot of it sold out almost immediately, but I did get a skein of the "Black over Wine" colorway, which is lovely. I really need to stop buying now, and go on a yarn diet... My stash runneth over! It's so hard, to resist gorgeous new yarns, though, isn't it!!!

Amulet Pouch FO

2008-01-26T09:07:00.000-05:00

Wow! Was this ever fast and easy! It's cute, and I know several people who will love this... I still have Yarn left over, too, so I can make a couple more easily.

By the way, in this shot I got a better pic of the button I used for Tudora. It came on a card of two, So I still have this one for another project.

Tudora

2008-01-25T16:40:00.000-05:00

Tudora really is a fast and fun knit... and looks so cool to wear!

I love finding unusual buttons for projects like this, too. I was poring over all the pretty ones in a local fabric store, and found this one. These photos don't show it very clearly, but it's blue with an iridescent shine to it... I'll have to see if I can capture the colors in a closeup.

I am still plugging away on the shrug, and started the Amulet Pouch. I finally decided on my next lace project, also... the Wavy Feathers Smokering, using the Knit Picks Gossamer (in the Blue Jeans colorway)that I got last week.

I still need to settle on a pattern for my husband's sweater, and finish up the B-I-G throw I started for him, too. Needless to say, I have plenty to keep me busy this weekend and for some time after! :)

What's on the Needles; Heart II FO

2008-01-23T15:36:00.000-05:00

Well, over the weekend I made another version of the Heart scarf. This time I added an additional 2 knit stitches on either side of the design. It really helps the scarf to keep a flat shape - especially after blocking. I still have yarn left over from the 2 skeins of Sundara sport merino. I think I am going to try using it for the Amulet Pouch, from Magknits.

Right now I have several projects going... I just started Tudora from knitty.

I am also working on a Stockinette Shrug. I found the pattern at the Yarn Council of America website.

I also want to start another lace project... I found a couple of cowl/smokering patterns on the web, and I'm trying to decide which one to make first. Hmmm... I went from not knowing what I wanted to knit at all (over the weekend) to a fairly full knitting plate! Should keep me busy for a while! :)

Gray Scarf FO; Discount Shopping! :)

2008-01-20T16:51:00.000-05:00

I finished my simple gray scarf, which became a keyhole scarf at the suggestion of a friend. It's now ready for blocking. I am planning to make a crocheted flower pin, to help hold the scarf snugly in place at the neck and add a decorative accent.

I went to my favorite discount/closeout store Wednesday to check out what goodies they had. Earlier in the week I had been looking in the Container Store for magazine holders, to organize my knitting and crochet magazines, but they didn't have anything I liked. To my total surprise, the discount store had some cute ones (first time I've ever even seen them there!), and they were on closeout for $1.99 each! That's much less than I'd have paid anywhere else.

Even better, they got in a whole new selection of yarns, including some from Lion Brand and Caron. I bought some Bolero (100% wool) in Starburst. Each skein was only $1.99! They have some other nice colorways, as well as more Lion Suede, Boucle, and others... I'll have to work hard to resist!! :) (My stash is so full already!)

What Do I want to Knit??

2008-01-16T14:04:00.000-05:00

Have you ever wanted to knit, but not known what you felt like knitting? It's how I felt over the last several days... I even pulled out different yarns and started knitting randomly, trying to figure out what it was I felt like working on (and then frogged them all when I realized I was going nowhere). I finally started a simple scarf with some luxuriously soft heather gray yarn I picked up at a local yarn store. It was in the clearance bin, and unfortunately the label was long gone. It's soft as alpaca, but I don't know for sure if it's blended with something else... I just know it's wonderful and I love the feel of it on my skin. I wish I had more than just 2 skeins, I'd love to make a sweater!
In the meantime, I am continuing my stash organization. I also just received my order from Knit Picks. The order includes Gossamer ("Carribean" and "Blue Jeans"colors) and Shadow ("Redwood Forest") lace yarns, for me to try my hand at some of the lovely lace scarf and shawl projects I have seen (a new venture for me).

There's also some "bare" worsted wool, so I can play with dye. :) I can't find Kool Aid powder in my supermarket, but they have liquid dye, so I bought that. The current issue of Knitty has a wonderful article on hand-dying with food colors, including Kool Aid, liquid and paste dyes.

New Project Bag

2008-01-14T21:23:00.000-05:00

I ordered a lovely new knitting project bag from Keri's Etsy shop. The fabric is beautiful, and she has little pockets and elastic bands inside to hold pattern, needles, and other odds & ends. It arrived today, just two days after she mailed it out! I already loaded it up... I'm ready to knit on the go! Thanks, Keri! :)

Marsan Watchcap FO

2008-01-11T06:42:00.000-05:00

The Marsan Watchcap is a really fast, easy knit. Hubby likes this one I made for him (in size large). With the yarn I used, I needed a size 8 needle (7 is recommended) to get a nice, not-too-tight fit. It's a great way to use up an odd skein of worsted weight yarn, too.

"The Time has Come," the Walrus Said...

2008-01-09T14:56:00.001-05:00

Yes, friends, the time has come... to organize the dreaded stash! With a new year and new knitting plans, I realized I have no idea what's in there! So, what's a gal to do??? It's Ravelry to the rescue!

I have been going through and photographing what I have, to add items to my Ravelry notebook. Then I can match things up with what I have in my queue, and work from there...

In the meantime, the Marsan Watchcap is my current WIP, and I will be choosing a pattern for a men's cardigan (for my hubby). Just have to decide on the pattern... I also have a fair amount of sock yarn in the stash, so it looks like a few pairs of socks are on the way soon, too!

Heart Scarf FO

2008-01-08T08:07:00.000-05:00

I finished Heart, and the 3-needle bindoff was super easy! I don't know what I was so afraid of! Granted, it's a very small piece; I don't know how easy it would be with a much bigger seam to graft... Probably could get cumbersome. But the technique is not complicated at all. I am really glad I didn't let that stop me from making the scarf.

This scarf really needs blocking - it completely curls in on itself, as you can see in the pics. Now, blocking is something else I have never really done... Most of my projects haven't really needed it - not as sorely as this one! So, out came the ironing board and pins... And again, while it's an extra (and maybe annoying)step after finishing a piece, it really isn't hard. Just a bit of a pain. I will have to figure out something else for blocking bigger items, though - the ironing board isn't big enough, and there's not a lot of space for a blocking board to sit out. Oh well, I 'll cross that bridge when I get to it! For now, I'm happy with the scarf, and have more than enough yarn left to make another one. I didn't even finish the first skein of yarn making this scarf. This would be a great (and rather quick) gift for a special friend for Valentine's Day.

Plans for 2008...

2008-01-07T11:15:00.000-05:00

After reading Sandi Wiseheart's latest Knitting Daily newsletter, I have decided that I very much like the idea of becoming a more "fearless knitter" in 2008. To accomplish this, I am choosing projects that will help me stretch my abilities in a variety of ways, by:

1. Experimenting with color. To that end, I have ordered some of Knitpick's "bare" yarn in worsted weight to dye myself. I have also joined "Project Spectrum," in which you work with specific colors during specific periods of time - the goal being to explore those colors in a creative way in your projects, at the same time as other members.

2. Experimenting with new yarn. I have long admired the beautiful lace stoles, shawls and other garments I have seen in various knitting books, blogs, and magazines... and been too scared to try my hand at any of them. So, I also ordered several batches of lace yarn from Knitpicks - on clearance. This way, if it turns out to be too much to handle, I'll feel less guilty if I decide it's not working and I'd rather trade, give away or sell the yarn. (Though I picked some lovely colorways to encourage my efforts!)

3. Learning new techniques/skills. I plan to work on projects that will incorporate skills I haven't tried. For example, the Heart scarf I am currently working on involves knitting two identical pieces that are grafted together in the middle (I'm almost there, at the grafting step...). I also want to work on socks - to improve my toes and heels. I have plenty of sock yarn already in my stash!

4. Finally, I want to approach knitting in general in a more organized fashion... lining up some specific projects to work on, utilizing more of my stash, and making things for specific people that I have (up 'til now) thought about more in the way of "Some day, I'll..."

As in:

"Some day I'll get to that sweater I was planning for my hubby with the yarn I bought on sale..." (The yarn has been sitting there in my stash for months...)

"Some day I'll knit Clapotis. " (Yet to get going on that one...)

"Some day I'll complete a pair of Jaywalker socks for myself ." (The pair I started needs to be frogged and restarted.)

Etc., etc., etc. ...

Ravelry is such a great new tool and resource to organize my knitting and my stash, so I don't lose track of things that I really want to work on. I have been busily putting my ideas, yarns and patterns into my Ravelry notebook...

How are you thinking about your knitting in 2008? Are you planning to knit fearlessly?

In other news, my order from my CafePress shop just arrived. I am really happy with the sweatshirts and tile coaster.
I also have more ideas that I'll be adding to the shop in the near future...

Here's an update photo on Heart:

I have only four heart motifs left to knit before I reach the grafting!

Finally, a tip:

An empty wipes dispenser (this one is for Lysol antibacterial wipes) is a great yarn holder. The extra large size holds two balls of sport merino comfortably. It even has a handy feeder hole for the yarn!

"Heart" Scarf and "Four Corners Headband"

2008-01-04T10:04:00.000-05:00

I have so many things I want to work on in the new year! We'll see what time and funds allow me to accomplish! :)

I made another Four Corners Headband, in green this time. I think I'll be making more of them, particularly for for my niece.

I am currently working on my first lace project, a Heart scarf. I am making it in a very different size than shown in knitty, though. Mine will be more of a decorative accent to wear with a blouse, not an outdoor winter garment. I'm using Sundara sport merino in Raspberry... My only photo right now is a blurry one from my cell phone camera, but I hope to get better shots over the weekend.

Crocheted Headband from Knitscene; Indulgences

2007-12-30T09:10:00.000-05:00

After working on some large, time-consuming projects, I like to switch off to some quick, simple pieces... I used the Lion Wool I dyed with Kool Aid to make the pretty crochet headband from the current issue of Knitscene. It was super quick and easy. Since I used a slightly heavier yarn than called for in the pattern, I dropped down to a size D crochet hook. Not bad, and a cute accent. I bet a beaded one would look fabulous, too!

In my travels before Christmas, I couldn't resist a little self-indulgence... I bought two skeins of Classic Elite Montera and two of Misti Alpaca Baby Alpaca... The colors and softness (especially the baby alpaca!) were just irresistable! :)

Knitted Gifts

2007-12-26T10:52:00.000-05:00

The knitted gifts turned out to be big hits with the recipients. My niece's sweater was a perfect fit:

And my mom loved her Homespun shawl:

WHEW!! I am relieved! :)

Hey! The Mmmm... Hot Cocoa Swap is still open for signups! Knit a cute critter, sip some hot cocoa and swap away the winter blues!!! :)

Merry Christmas, Everyone!

2007-12-25T09:35:00.000-05:00

Well, I did it! I finished the shawl for my mom on Saturday evening! It's all wrapped up and ready to give to her later today, when the family gets together.

On Sunday, I tried my hand at dyeing yarn with Kool Aid. It was lots of fun, and came out pretty well. I can see why people get hooked on dyeing their own. (Edit: I used grape, green apple and blue raspberry on the first skein, and cherry and grape on the second.)

I also went into the city with my sister and we visited Knit Cafe. I bought some greagt yarn and had a yummy creme brulee latte. We spent some time there knitting, then went to Union Square Park, where they had a great holiday bazaar with all sorts of handmade gifts. It was a fun day in spite of the almost steady rain.

I hope all my knitting friends have a wonderful Christmas!

It's a Long Winter Weekend Before Christmas...

2007-12-22T08:32:00.000-05:00

My office is closed on both Monday and Tuesday, so we have a lovely, long 3-day weekend to prepare for Christmas. For that I am truly grateful! The shopping's done (except for one easy item I'll get today), but there are many other things to do before Christmas Day. It's like having a mini-vacation to prepare.

Unfortunately I awoke with a headache that hasn't quit after taking Tylenol Arthritis Pain formula a few hours ago (yep, got that too), so I think it may be tiime to try something else. But enough about that...

I received a cute little Chritmas present from a co-worker yesterday, a little dog cell phone charm:

I had given her a pair of fingerless mitts last month, and she surprised me with this yesterday. Right now he's attached to my purse, because we couldn't figure out how to attach him to the phone. I asked her how she did it, and she said she uses very strong nylon thread, like that used for fishing line. There are books with pattern instructions, similar to knitting books, which contain patterns for all sorts of animals and other little charms.

Right now I am finishing up the homespun shawl (on the last skein!) and I also started a project for me - another purse. Since today officially starts the first day of winter, I decided that the other bag I made has too much of a fall color theme. This one will be made in Lion Suede's Seacrest colorway, tones of dark blues and gray.
I have the fabric for lining it already, and I also want to make a couple of fabric project bags, too. Might as well make it worth it to haul out the sewing machine for several things instead of just one! :)

Special Post - Bambi in Her Sweater!

2007-12-17T10:17:00.000-05:00

My friend sent me photos of her chihuahua, Bambi, in the little doggie sweater I made for her, so I can post them now!

For more on the sweater, click here.

Working Hard!

2007-12-17T09:15:00.000-05:00

Nov. 29th photo:

Dec. 8th Photo:

Progress as of last night (shawl is folded lengthwise):

The Homespun shawl got a good bit longer this weekend! I have been working on it almost exclusively, to finish it in time for Christmas. This weekend provided lots of time, with the cold temperatures and especially the sleet on Sunday. It was a great day for knitting by the fireplace, and with Lord of the Rings playing through all day (the entire trilogy) on TNT, it was perfect. NOTE TO SELF: Start earlier next year!

Patterns: Fun and, Well, ..... Strange!

2007-12-13T19:52:00.000-05:00

I got my Berroco KnitBits newsletter today, with a really cool set of free patterns - miniature sweaters to knit as tree ornaments! Minutia is available in the Free Patterns section of the Berroco website. What great little gifts they would be for knitting friends! They also have lots of other gift ideas in a special section of their free patterns.

OK, I have seen some unusual knitting patterns... For example, knitty has featured, among other things, a knitted "Womb", and a Boobie Scarf (yes,if you haven't seen it, boobs are knit in, nipples are optional...) Now today I found a pattern for knitted toilet paper! Depending upon the fiber used (cashmere, anyone???), I suppose it could beat Charmin in a contest for the softest tissue around...

Christmas Rush

2007-12-13T14:27:00.000-05:00

I have been busy finishing handmade gifts for Christmas, not to mention shopping for those gifts that I could never make in a million years!

I finished a simple cap to go with the mitts I made for hubby, and I am still working on Mom's Homespun Shawl. The latter will be a lot of work between now and Christmas - I am about 2/5 of the way through (2 of 5 skeins used).

As for my sisters, I made them each some fingerless mitts, and since they are both knitters, I decided to make some stitch markers for them as well. Here are some photos of a few sets I've made this week:

Silver Hearts

Blue Glass Beads

Purple and Garnet Red Glass Beads

I am getting better at working with the wires and metal jewelry findings. The beads I bought a long time ago, from a closeout sale at a local craft store. (At the time, they were just closing out some color lines of the beads. About a year ago, the shop itself closed altogether.)

I am no jewelry maker, but this was a fun project, and ties in with my knitting pretty nicely. I have some other ideas as well, but as usual, ideas are plentiful... time is what's short! :)

SWAP PACKAGE RECEIVED! Mr.'s Mitts Complete

2007-12-08T07:03:00.000-05:00

I received my wonderful swap goodies from Catherine - what an awesome package! The mitts are lovely, and fit perfectly. They are so soft and warm!

(Click on pic to see full view)

Here's a closeup of this adorable tiny sweater keyring:

Thanks so much Catherine! You are a great swap partner! And THANK YOU, KERI, for a wonderful KAL and Swap, too! It's been so much fun!

I finished the Shetland Chunky mitts for hubby last night. He kindly let me take a few photos of him modeling them. I used the pattern for Dashing (size large) without the cables. The cables got too confusing doing these as a take-along project. There were too many interruptions, and I had to keep ripping them out because I lost my place or made a mistake. I do plan to make him a pair of Dashing Mitts, though, when I am not in a hurry with so many Christmas gifts to do.

On the Go!

2007-12-05T11:25:00.000-05:00

So, today is one of those busy on-the-go days. In case I have a spare moment in between errands, my knitting is with me... These are the fingerless mitts I am working on for hubby. The yarn is Paton's Shetland Chunky in # 03031 - Earthy Brown. It's a nice rich brown, and the feel is thick and soft. I have one mitt done, and I am working on the second. I bought two skeins, from which I am hoping to get a pair of mitts and, if I am lucky, maybe a hat.

Progress on the Shawl and More Yarn!

2007-12-03T07:20:00.000-05:00

I worked quite a bit on the shawl for my mom this weekend... You can see the progress in the photos below:

Nov 29th:

This morning:

Actually, seeing the progress like this helps keep me motivated on such a large project, too!

My order from sKNITches arrived this weekend also! :))) I just LOVE these colorways!

I know it's past Halloween, but when I saw these special order colors on their website, I just HAD to have some! It looks as awesome in person as in the photo, and feels marvelously soft, too! I am looking forward to making something special with these skeins!

Great Inspirations!

2007-11-30T06:46:00.000-05:00

Some time ago I purchased the book One Skein, and also took part in the One Skein Secret Pal Swap organized by Interweave Press when the book was launched. I also subscribe to Knitting Daily, their great email newsletter about all things knitting.

Yesterday's issue freatured last minute gift ideas from One Skein, and also referenced the author Leigh Radford's own website. It is full of imaginative knitting from her books, and also has other patterns available for sale/download. Even if you don't plan on purchasing anything at the moment, you should just look at all the imaginative and inspiring ideas she has - it's sure to get your own creative juices flowing!

My Pal Received the Swap Package I Sent!

2007-11-29T19:59:00.000-05:00

Now I can post the pics! Cathy received the package today. I made her two pairs of mitts, one in alpaca (Classic Elite Montera) and another pair, Fetching, in acrylic (she is allergic to wool). In spite of the wool allergy, I thought she'd still appreciate the white sheep and the keyring with a little black sheep on it. ;)

PuppyLove and FlickrMitts!

2007-11-28T16:43:00.000-05:00

I used up the last 4 skeins of Lion Brand "BIG" yarn to make a small throw for Spike. He LOVES it! It's perfect as a mat to lay on or (as in the photo above) a warm, cozy blanket when he's on the loveseat. (Yes, I am crazy!)

These are the latest pair of mitts I have finished for the Fingerless Mitts KAL. The bright stripes make me think of Dr. Seuss for some reason... plus I am a big Flickr addict, and they are Flickr's logo/symbol colors (must have been subconsciously in my mind - I didn't even realize it until after they were done!). I plan to knit more mitts (there are so many great patterns on the Fingerless Mitts for Fall KAL blog!) but I have so many other projects I want to do, too!!

I have started a simple garter stitch shawl for my mom, in Lion Brand Homespun's, "Prairie" colorway. My parents have an apartment on the 9th floor of a large building. It used to be kept very warm... Even on the coldest days, it was comfortable to wear t-shirts and even shorts. With the recent huge increases in fuel prices, that's no longer the case, so I think she'll appreciate a shawl a lot more now when she's reading or watching TV.

Mittens

2007-11-26T16:28:00.000-05:00

I worked on mittens and mitts over the holiday weekend, when I wasn't cooking, cleaning or entertaining. After the last pair (the striped ones) are complete, I'll begin my mom's birthday gift (her birthday is December 11). I am thinking of either a scarf or shawl... I have a few ideas in mind, and will post more about my final choice tomorrow.

My swap pal's package is sealed, addressed and ready to be dropped off at the post office later this afternoon. I found a couple of last-minute items to add in, which I think she'll enjoy. EDIT: I dropped it off at the post office at 5PM - it's on its way to Texas! :)

Back to Our Regularly Scheduled Programming... Knitting Mittens and Whimsies

2007-11-20T07:25:00.000-05:00

Back to regular knitting business! The swap mitts and package are complete! (I have pics, but will not post them until after my pal receives the package.) ;)

I started a pair of regular mittens, by request, for a friend's daughter. They are from Family Circle's Easy Knitting, Fall 2005 issue. I am using Paton's Classic Merino Wool, in # 77734 "Too Teal". They knit up really fast, and the wool yarn is nice and warm. It is just a tiny bit rough, though, so I think I will add some fabric softener when I rinse them for blocking.

And, if they didn't already, my co-workers definitely know now that I am crazy... especially about knitting! :) I made a couple of these hot cup sleeves, to use up odds & ends of leftover wool and "go green" at the same time, too.

Please Stand By....

2007-11-15T11:32:00.000-05:00

Another of my photos - this one's from yesterday, of the tree right outside my office building at work. I love fall, I love Japanese maples, and I love taking photos!

I am still working on the fingerless mitts for my swap pal - the second one is almost done. I have a cute assortment of things to include in my swap package - I am going to start putting it together today. I hope my pal will be pleased with it!

Secrets and Surprises

2007-11-14T18:22:00.000-05:00

I have been working on fingerless mitts for my swap pal, Catherine, and assembling an assortment of goodies to send her, too. I can't post photos at the moment... so instead I will post this shot I took yesterday on my way home from work. The weather was so gorgeous, I couldn't resist stopping at my favorite tranquil spot along the Bronx River Parkway, to enjoy the autumn afternoon and capture some of its beauty on film.

B-I-G FO!

2007-11-09T06:43:00.000-05:00

I completed the Chunky Sweater! It took about three days, and was fun to do. All the details are here, in my Ravelry notebook and my previous two posts.

B-I-G Knit Sweater

2007-11-08T10:37:00.000-05:00

This has to be the quickest sweater ever to knit... (I even knit the back twice... I frogged the first one because I realized my stitch count was off.) All I have left are the sleeves and the seams... It feels very warm and cozy! Hmmm... I may just have to swing by the store and see what they have left, and make one for myself... :)

Knitsimple Chunky Sweater

2007-11-07T06:55:00.000-05:00

I am working on a project now that I wanted to do several years ago, the Chunky Sweater from the premiere issue of Knitsimple. I am making it for my niece as a Christmas present. I went back to my discount store "Amazing Savings" the other day, and found out they had the Lion Brand BIG yarn at only $1.99/hank. These seem to be closeouts, because this color, Large Lime, is no longer listed as a currently available color at the Lion website.

The sweater is a lot of fun to knit! When is the last time you can remember knitting an entire adult-size sweater back in less than two hours? I returned to another project in worsted yarn after starting this, and I felt like I was knitting the finest-gauge sock yarn, LOL. I think my niece, who is 14, will get a kick out of the funky look of the huge stitches.

"Roses and Ruffles" Fingerless Mitts

2007-11-04T20:32:00.000-05:00

These are fingerless mitts I came up with to use up some leftover yarn from the pink baby sweater I made. I am calling them "Roses and Ruffles" Mitts. I am hoping to post the pattern soon - I am currently testing it out in another yarn.