FINGERS' FANCY - a craft blog

De-Stash - Mondial Giada Merino Wool & Silk Yarn, Shade 179

2012-01-29T06:50:00.005-05:00

Mondial Le Perle Giada Yarn (179, Steel Blue) 10 x 50 gm balls

Color: 179, Steel Blue

Dyelot: 48

10 x 50 gm balls

Smoke Free, Pet Free

Yardage: 140 m or 155 yds/ ball

Fiber Content: 70% Superwash Merino Wool, 30% Silk

Gauge 6/ inch

Needle size: 3.5 - 4 mm

Care: Hand wash & Dry Flat

Made in Italy

Beautiful, lushiously soft sport weight yarn. This yarn will provide excellent stitch definition.

Miracle Baby Blanket

2012-01-26T21:02:00.006-05:00

Pattern: Infinite Entrelac 488 by Lucy Neatby

Yarn: Kauni Wool 8/2 Effektgarn, 1 ball

Colourway: W-ES

This blanket is made for a very special mother and child. This woman never expected to conceive. She was thought infertile. Her partner was also thought infertile. And what do you know, a miracle occurred. The baby is doing very well in utero and will be born soon. Blanket done on time (for a change)! Which is another miracle of sorts!

Didn’t do the yarn wraps as in the pattern. Instead I slipped the stitch as if to purl. I think this resulted in a more prominent right & wrong side. But I don’t care - it made the project a lot less finicky.

The yarn is beautiful to look at, but I think it is not ideal for a baby blanket. It is too scratchy and can only be hand washed.

I think zauberball stonewashed would be a much better choice of yarn for this project and colourway.

De-Stash - Mondial Gold Superwash & Cashmere Yarn, Shade 831

2012-01-26T20:50:00.006-05:00

Mondial Le Perle Gold Yarn (831, Soft Pink) 10 x 50 gm balls

Color: 831, Pale Pink

Dyelot: 53

10 x 50 gm balls

Yardage: 175 m / ball

Fiber Content: 80% Superwash Merino Wool, 20% Cashmere

Gauge 30 sts / 4 inches (Fingering)

Needle size: 3 - 3.5 mm

Care: Machine wash & Dry Flat

Made in Italy

Super soft, superwash yarn.

De-Stash - Rowanspun DK Yarn, Shade 747

2012-01-23T23:50:00.005-05:00

Rowanspun DK Yarn (747, "Catkin" green) 10 x 50 gm balls

Color: 747 Catkin (light green tweed, with blue flecks)
Dyelot: 3012
10 x 50 gm balls (one skein wound into a ball, actually 56 gm)

Smoke Free, Pet Free

Yardage: 218 yards / ball
Fiber Content: 100% Wool
Gauge 20 sts / 4 inches
Needle size: 6 US, 4.25 mm
Care: Hand Wash & Dry Flat

Made in England

Beautiful, lushiously soft tweed yarn.

De-Stash - Kauni Wool 8/2 Effektgarn W-ES

2012-01-23T00:10:00.002-05:00

Kauni - Wool 8/2 Effektgarn Yarn (W-ES, Blue) 1 x 150 gm ball

Color: W-ES (long repeats of blue)
1 x 150 gm ball

Smoke Free, Pet Free

Yardage: 660 yards / ball (604 m)
Fiber Content: 100% Wool
Gauge: 23 stitches per 4 inches
Needle Size: 3 - 4 mm
Care: Hand wash & dry flat

Lovely, long repeats of colour. So much fun to knit up with the colour changes.

Pattern Ideas: Infinite Entrelac!, Newton Scarf

De-Stash - Jaeger Extra Fine Merino Aran Yarn (545, Derby)

2012-01-21T21:02:00.003-05:00

Jaeger Extra Fine Merino Aran Yarn (545, Derby) 20 x 50 gm balls

Color: 545 Derby (dark, heathered gray)
Dyelot: 188
20 x 50 gm balls

Smoke Free, Pet Free

Yardage: 95 yards / ball
Fiber Content: 100% Extra Fine Merino Wool
Gauge 19 sts / 4 inches
Needle size: 7 US, 4.5mm
Care: Machine Wash & Dry Flat

Made in England

De-Stash - Jaeger Extra Fine Merino Aran Yarn (540, Blue Star)

2012-01-21T20:58:00.002-05:00

Jaeger Extra Fine Merino Aran Yarn (540, Blue Star) 20 x 50 gm balls

Color: 540 Blue Star (blue heather)
Dyelot: 200
20 x 50 gm balls

Smoke Free, Pet Free

Yardage: 95 yards / ball
Fiber Content: 100% Extra Fine Merino Wool
Gauge 19 sts / 4 inches
Needle size: 7 US, 4.5mm
Care: Machine Wash & Dry Flat

Made in England

De-Stash - Jaeger Extra Fine Merino Aran Yarn (558, Coffee)

2012-01-21T20:54:00.006-05:00

Jaeger Extra Fine Merino Aran Yarn (558, Coffee) 20 x 50 gm balls

Color: 558 Coffee (medium brown)
Dyelot: 3002
20 x 50 gm balls

Smoke Free, Pet Free

Yardage: 95 yards / ball
Fiber Content: 100% Extra Fine Merino Wool
Gauge 19 sts / 4 inches
Needle size: 7 US, 4.5mm
Care: Machine Wash & Dry Flat

Made in England

De-Stash - Jaeger Extra Fine Merino Aran Yarn (554, Peacock)

2012-01-21T20:42:00.006-05:00

Jaeger Extra Fine Merino Aran Yarn

(554, Peacock)

20 x 50 gm balls
Color: 554 Peacock (dark teal colour)
Dyelot: 649
20 x 50 gm balls

Smoke Free, Pet Free

Yardage: 95 yards / ball
Fiber Content: 100% Extra Fine Merino Wool
Gauge 19 sts / 4 inches
Needle size: 7 US, 4.5mm

Care: Machine Wash & Dry Flat

Made in England

De-Stash - Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran (Wine) Colour 330013

2012-01-21T20:12:00.004-05:00

Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran Yarn (330013, Wine) 20 x 50gm balls

Color: Wine
Dyelot: 59B
20 x 50 gm balls

Smoke Free, Pet Free

Yardage: 100 yards / ball
Fiber Content: Wool 55%, Microfiber 33%, Cashmere 12%
Gauge 18 sts / 4 inches
Needle size: 8 US, 5mm

Care: Machine Wash & Dry Flat or Dry Clean (according to label)

Made in Italy

De-Stash - Beaverslide Fisherman's Yarn, Dusty Clover

2012-01-17T11:36:00.003-05:00

BEAVERSLIDE DRY GOODS - FISHERMAN WEIGHT YARN, 2 ply (Out of Production)

Color: Dusty Clover

Dyelot: 1

6 x 4 oz. skeins (total 1260 yards)

Smoke Free, Pet Free

100% Fine Wool - Hand wash with mild soap & Dry flat.

4 oz.(112 grams), 210 yards per skein

2-ply fisherman's weight yarn (Aran)

4 stitches per inch - sz. 8 US needle

Super soft, squishy yarn.

This yarn is no longer in production. Beaverslide Dry Goods makes a similar yarn that is chunkier (3 ply).

Grown in Montana & Spun in Maine, USA

De-Stash - Beaverslide Fisherman's Yarn, Tamarack

2012-01-17T11:34:00.005-05:00

BEAVERSLIDE DRY GOODS - FISHERMAN WEIGHT YARN, 2 ply (Out of Production)

Color: Tamarack

Dyelot: 1

6 x 4 oz. skeins (total 1260 yards)

Smoke Free, Pet Free

100% Fine Wool - Hand wash with mild soap & Dry flat.

4 oz. (112 grams), 210 yards per skein

2-ply fisherman's weight yarn (Aran)

4 stitches per inch - sz. 8 US needle

Super soft, squishy yarn.
This yarn is no longer in production. Beaverslide Dry Goods makes a similar yarn that is chunkier (3 ply).

Grown in Montana & Spun in Maine, USA

De-Stash - Skye Tweed, Highland Brown Cow

2012-01-17T11:30:00.003-05:00

CLASSIC ELITE - SKYE TWEED (Out of Production)

Colour - 1238: Highland Cow Brown (Brown, Orange), Released Fall 2004

Lot 16507

20 x 50 gm balls (total 2200 yards)

Smoke Free, Pet Free

Yarn Content: 100% Lamb's Wool / Hand Wash Cold & Dry Flat
Yarn Gauge: 18-20 sts = 4" / 7 US (4.5mm) , 8 US (5mm)
Yarn Weight: Aran
Yarn Length: 110 yds/50g ball

Super soft lambswool and beautiful tweeded colors make this a great yarn for your next knit.

Made in England

De-Stash - Skye Tweed, Scottish Mist

2012-01-17T11:25:00.006-05:00

CLASSIC ELITE - SKYE TWEED (Out of Production)

Colour - 1203: Scottish Mist (Gray, Blue), Released Fall 2004

Lot 4039

20 x 50 gm balls (total 2200 yards)

Smoke Free, Pet Free

Yarn Content: 100% Lamb's Wool / Hand Wash Cold & Dry Flat

Yarn Gauge: 18-20 sts = 4" / 7 US (4.5mm) , 8 US (5mm)

Yarn Weight: Aran

Yarn Length: 110 yds/50g ball

Super soft lambswool and beautiful tweeded colors make this a great yarn for your next knit.

Made in England

De-Stash - Plymouth Tweed.

2012-01-17T11:13:00.007-05:00

I have decided to de-stash. I have some absolutely glorious yarns that deserve to used and I don't know when I will get around to using them. So I am passing my finds on to you.

Here is the first listing:

PLYMOUTH YARN - PLYMOUTH TWEED (Out of Production)

Colour - Red/Purple, Number 5316, Lot 1420

13 x 50 gm balls (total 1417 yards)

Smoke Free, Pet Free

Yarn Content: 100% Virgin Lamb's Wool / Hand Wash, Dry Flat
Yarn Gauge: 4 sts = 1" / US 8 needle
Yarn Weight: Aran
Yarn Length: 109 yds/50g ball

Super soft lambswool and beautiful tweeded colors make this a great yarn for your next knit.

Made in England

SOLD

Wicker Pattern Reference

2011-03-07T06:45:00.006-05:00

The pattern was suggested by Freda on my "Crochet Weave" post.

I have copied this from Big Book of Knitting Stitch Patterns

Publisher: Sterling Publishing Co., 2005

288 pages

ISBN-10: 1402727631

Another suggestion is that the picture depicts "Railroad Knitting" which is a synonym for Tunisian crochet/knitting. Here is an example of a simple Tunisian stitch pattern and an instructional video.

Thanks for all of your suggestions!

Finally. Commuter Scarf - Written

2010-08-21T06:29:00.002-04:00

There have been a few requests for me to write out the charted pattern for The Commuter Scarf. I have not done so. My only excuse it that I have more pressing things to attend to on my "To Do" list. Fortunately a very kind soul has helped me fulfill this request. The following instructions are courtesy of bekbek on Ravelry. (Thank you!)

The Commuter Scarf - Written

Cast on 4 stitches.

Increase Row: K2, YO, K to end.

Repeat Increase Row until there are 30 stitches on the needle, ending with a RS row.

WS Straight Row: K2, YO, K to last 5 stitches, K2tog, K3.
RS Straight Row: K2, YO, SSK, K to end.

Repeat Straight Rows until you reach the slipknot.

RS Decrease Row: K2, YO, SSK, K to last 5 stitches, SSK, K3.
WS Decrease Row: K2, YO, K2tog, K to last 5 stitches, K2tog, K3.

Repeat Decrease Rows until 8 stitches remain, ending on WS row.

RS: K2, SSSK, K3.
WS: K2, K3tog, K1.
BO stitches.

Hope this helps!

Crochet Weave?

2009-12-13T08:47:00.005-05:00

I came across this picture in Aging Successfully, Fall 2009 (Vol. XIX, No. 2) Newsletter.

For those of us who love needle work the article, Zola, is also a sweet read (p. 15-16).

I love the look of this simply beautiful stitch.

Does anyone know its name? How do you do it?

I am going to ask the author of the article, Barb Tackitt, if she knows any more about this stitch. I will keep you posted.

UPDATE: (2009-DEC-14) With help from other Crocheters on Ravelry I think we have a solution. This is a picture of a woven fabric. The needle artist is adding an sc crocheted edge. It feels good to have a solution, but I am so unhappy that it was not a crochet solution.

Other thoughts were, basketweave stitch, X-stitch, and Woven Stitch.

Designer Dog Sweater

2008-12-26T19:49:00.003-05:00

More Than Cloth

2008-11-02T16:00:00.001-05:00

Ottawa Valley Weavers and Spinners Guild

PRESENTS the

28th Exhibition and Sale

Glebe Community Centre

175 Third Avenue, Ottawa

Friday, October 31st, 2008 (4 to 8)

Saturday, November 1st, 2008 (10 to 5)

Sunday, November 2nd, 2008 (10 to 4)

Admission Free

Progress x 17 Months

2008-10-11T11:09:00.002-04:00

Finally, an update on my Mangoes For Breakfast afghan.

This afghan has been in the works for at least 17 months. I wasn't happy with my first conception which used multiple other yarns of various colours. At that time I planned to crochet it in squares. The previous squares are pictured back in May 2007.

From the start I wanted a colourful piece with squares within a square. I consider intarsia and mitered squres. In the end I chose the log cabin approach.

Each square measures 18" x 18." I finished 20 squares to cover a double bed. It will be 4 x 5 squares for a finished size of about 75" x 90"

I tried top seamed crochet join, but didn't like the added lines. Instead I am working on a mattress stitch join.

This is a mammoth, heavy project. To help with its structural stability I am making it into a quilt. I have the cotton batting and the cotton fabric for backing.

The fabric I chose was on sale from Fat Quarter Shop dot com. The print is Malibu Monkeys by Erin Michael for Moda Fabrics. The backing fabric is the one with the white background. I think it is a better backing choice and will make the overall finished piece a little less bold. The all yellow fabric is a deeper yellow than the Melody Sunny Yellow of the log cabin squares. I may use the yellow fabric for binding.

I am not certain how much quilting I will have to do to keep this piece together. I planned to use buttons to help with the sandwich process. I will have to see how this works. This is uncharted territory for me!

I likely will sew 4 pillow cases from the remaining fabric to send a long with the finished piece. It is exciting getting near the finish line with this enormous project. The finished result is still a fuzzy image in my mind's eye.

Team Scarf Pattern

2008-10-04T20:30:00.001-04:00

Here we have a scarf I made for a die-hard Mets fan. It is a bit sad that we are in the Post Season and had to say good-bye to the Mets, at least until next year. This scarf gives tremendous comfort in the off season. The bright colours of a royal blue and orange scarf in the dead of a wet, damp, dark, bone chilling winter does the soul good. Spring is coming, and baseball will begin anew.

Now you don't have to be a New York, Metropolitan Baseball fan to enjoy such a scarf. This snugly neck warmer can be made in any colour combination you choose. You may prefer your school's colours, or the colours of some other team. So here are my very easy instructions for your very own Team Scarf!

Team Scarf Pattern

Yarn: Filatura Di Crosa Zara, 4 balls of primary colour, 3 balls of secondary colour.
(here the PC is 2382 Royal Blue, and the SC is 1762 Bright Orange)

Weight: DK, 8 ply (11 WPI)

Content: 100% Superwash Merino Wool

Weight: 50 g - 124 m

Care: Machine Wash

Needle: 4 mm, 4 DPN

In main colour (i.e., the colour for both ends - here blue) do a provisional cast-on of 60 stitches over three DPNs (4 mm).

Knit 25 rounds in blue, then Knit 25 rounds in orange, Continue for desired length ending with the main colour.

Graft the end closed.

Then remove the provisional stitch from the beginning and graft this end closed, making certain the scarf will lay flat for its entire length.

Then steam block the scarf.

Ta Da! You have made a lovely team scarf!

So long Billy Wagner, so long Mets. 'Til we meet again.

Simply Lovely Corrugator

2008-09-27T14:46:00.001-04:00

I love The Corrugator pattern. I have made three thus far (sorry, I have only taken pics of the most recent incarnation). It has all the elements I look for in a scarf: reversible, straight forward pattern, and wearable. Bonus features of this treat include its unisex appeal, the pattern is free to download, and the designer is a Canadian too! Serendipitously, I found out that Paula (a.k.a., the designer) is the sister-in-law of a wonderful coworker of mine!

Pattern: The Corrugator

Designer: Paula of Hired Hands

Source: Free PDF File at http://www.hiredhands.ca/

Yarn: Patons SWS (80 gm - 100 m), Medium weight (4)

Colour: Natural Earth x 2 (for the start and the finish); Natrual Wood (for the middle)

Content: 70% Wool, 30% Soy

Needle: 5.5 mm (US 9)

Tension: 17 stitches by 21 rows (10 cm x 10 cm)

My other scarves were also made using SWS. The colour combinations were:

Natural Moss (middle), Natural Earth (ends) - My favourite so far. Since the colour variations in SWS can be quite variable, I made certain there was sufficient green in the Natural Earth (to match the Natural Moss).
Natural Indigo (middle), Natural Denim (ends)

I highly remmend this scarf. It is a rapid knit. The result is beautiful and makes a wonderful gift.

Commuter Scarf Revisited

2008-09-20T21:20:00.003-04:00

1. Noro Iro #63, 2. DGS Dark - Drying, 3. DGS Dark (1), 4. DGS - Noro Iro # 44 (1), 5. DGS - close up, 6. DGS x 2, 1 modified, 7. DGS Dark - Perspective, 8. DGS - Kochoran, 9. DGS Dark on Green, 10. DGS - Noro Iro #44 (2), 11. Diagonal Garter Scarf - roll, 12. DGS Modified, Noro Iro # 47, 13. DGS Dark - Roll, 14. DGS x 2, 15. DGS Dark (2), 16. DGS - Noro Iro #44 (3)

I created this mosaic using flickr toys. Here are pictures of most of my Commuter Scarves. I failed to take pictures of some of them before I sent them off as gifts.

This was my first ever self published pattern (pdf format), and I have been delighted to see other people's finished objects using this pattern. I have only used Noro yarn thus far but I have seen other beautiful scarves using other yarns. One that I plan to use myself is the self-striping Patons SWS yarn.

Other yarn examples that work well:

	Tweedle Dee by Moda Dea
	Malabrigo Yarn Merino Worsted in Cognac
	Hobby Lobby's I Love This Yarn! Autumn Stripe

The pattern can be downloaded here.

Drop me a line if you decide to knit one (or two)!

Know any Basketball Players?

2008-09-13T09:00:00.002-04:00

Fiber Trends Felted Clogs

This is a very popular pattern out in cyberspace. I love the look of felted (a.k.a., fulled) wool, and clogs / slippers are a perfect choice for fulling. So I purchased the pattern and attempted to use up some of my yarn stash (click here to see the original project). The yarn to be used is double stranded worsted weight wool. And as you will see, tension (gauge) really does matter! These clogs were to be size 8 men's! They turned out as a Men's 17D!

This is my first ever felting project. Prior to felting my partner had quite a laugh. Quite simply, the un-felted clogs were ginormous! I assured her that felting would shrink them down to size - although, silently I too worried about their size.

Initially I tried hand felting them in the bathtub. That didn't work well. Then I took them down to the coin washing machine in our building. After 3 rounds of agitation ($1.50 a go) I gave up. Yes, the clogs had felted, but they remained huge! I don't know anyone who wears size 17! (Does anyone know if these clogs could be further fulled?)

Here you can see, the finished clog measures 15 inches. I don't know what to do with them except try to sell them on Etsy. Do you know someone who could and would wear these clogs? I have listed them at $5.00 with $15.00 postage. This price is negotiable. Truthfully I would like the postage to be covered - this is not a money making venture.

Now for a lovely picture of how I would like my second attempt to look...

These lovely clogs are knit by Leanne of To Knit Is Divine.

Perfect for Fall

2008-09-06T15:52:00.002-04:00

Interweave Knits Photo

Pattern: Montego Bay Scarf
Designer: Amy R. Singer (of Knitty.com, of course)
Magazine: Interweave Knits Summer 2007
Yarn: Yarn Handmaiden Sea Silk (70% silk, 30% Seacell; 440 yd [400 m]/100 g)
Colour: Periwinkle, 1 skein

Mine: Oasis (100% SOYSILK® 240yds / 100g ball)
Colour: Passion 059; 2 balls
Tension: 5 sts and 8 rows = 1" US 6 (4.0mm)
Care Instructions: Hand wash and lay flat to dry

I love the lovely sumptuous drape of this scarf. It is so simply feminine. The knitting goes very quickly - the most detail oriented portion of the scarf is the braided fringe. With this yarn I did not need nearly all of the fringe lengths suggested in the pattern. Too bad I didn't document how much I did use (sorry).

Here is a close up of the fringe. I think the braiding was worth the effort. This pattern is one that I will likely knit over and over again. I am so happy with the results.

Meet Red

2008-09-01T01:59:00.006-04:00

Welcome the newest member of the Sock Monkey Family - Red. He's a handsome, cheery fellow dressed in a fisherperson's hat and sweater with knitted boots besides. As you can see, there is a kinship with my fondly remembered sock monkey (How do you like the loop ears?)

The sweater was knit in the round and I made my first steeks for the arm holes. Thank goodness for Elizabeth Zimmermann and her instructions! The turtle neck is smaller than sock body to give Red the appearance of an neck. The boots (a basic sock pattern) are stuffed and sewn on the legs. I didn't like the look of a footless monkey.

Here he is checking out the dust bunnies between the wall and the head of the bed. I love his tail. My first tail attempt was horrible! I followed the instructions that come with the Fox River Red Heel Socks. It was way too short and too thick. This version is using nearly the full length of the sock and only a quarter of the width. I wasn't too sure where to attach the tail. Now I think it looks best above the red bottom.

Sock Monkey Memory

2008-07-01T21:49:00.000-04:00

As a child I did not have an attachment to any particular toy except for my Great Aunt Win's Sock Monkey. This Sock Monkey lived at her place and I played with it every time we visited. I loved its hat, ears, limbs and tail. There is a picture of me, before memory, dragging it along by its arm. I am not sure what the attraction was but I have remember that monkey to this day. Before getting these pictures I spent more than a few spare moments looking at Sock Monkeys on line trying to remember what this one looked like. Well, my Great Aunt's daughter found him and took these pictures for me. He has suffered over the years, but it is so nice to see him again.

Here we have a full body shot. He used to have pompoms on all of his limbs and his tail. I remember his hat and ears very clearly.

Lovely Lace Socks

2008-03-23T09:59:00.000-04:00

The lovely Embossed Leaves Socks are done. I have been wanting to knit up these socks ever since I first laid eyes on them. But first I had to find the perfect yarn...

Pattern: Embossed Leaves Socks
Source: Favorite Socks, by Interweave Press
Designer: Mona Schmidt (Her website can be found here.)
Yarn: Oceanwind Knits Hand-dyed Sock Merino, Thyme (I also considered the Sweetgrass colourway) - I believe the perfect yarn for this design
Needles: 3.25 mm (3 US)
Tension: 28 st / 10 cm (4 in)

I love the detail of the star toe that seems to complete the leaves.
The pattern (as printed) has two problems. First is the 1x1 rib cast on - I didn't like it and I found out that the designer hadn't done this cast on either. She had intended the tubular cast on. She even posted a Tubular Cast On tutorial on her blog. My cuff (above) is cast on in this method - I love it!

The other problem is where the heel gusset begins. The directions ask you to (gasp) cut the yarn. This is not needed. I just picked up one side of the heel flap (becomes needle 2 I think), continued with the lace pattern on needle 3 & 4, and then picked up the other side of the heel flap (needle 1). This works beautifully and I didn't cut the yarn!

Then I got carried away and continued all of the lace repeats for the foot. After finishing (weaving in ends and blocking) I realized that these socks were too long for the intended recipient. It took me a day before I could face frogging and re-knitting and re-blocking. But now they are perfect (if I do say so myself) and ready to be popped in the mail.

Garter Stitch Baby

2008-03-11T21:58:00.001-04:00

My first Baby Surprise Jacket. appropriately knit for a friend's first child.

Pattern: Baby Surprise Jacket, from The Opinionated Knitter

(I used the pattern along with Dawn Adcock's notes.)

Designer: Elizabeth Zimmermann

Yarn: Sublime Extra Fine Merino Wool DK 063 Taffeta (light), 066 Myrtle (medium), 067 Sloe Berry (dark) - one ball each.

Needles: 4.0 mm (6 US)

Tension: 22 stitches per 10 cm (4")

This jacket is so famous I felt I HAD to knit one. Now that I have knit one I can see what all the fuss is about - it is so much fun to make. It goes from this amorphous shape to a lovely jacket with only two shoulder seams. EZ instructions were a challenge (but as you can see I got help from Dawn Adcock). Rather than just diving in to this project it was important for me to read and try to understand EZ's pattern. But once I started to understand the sweater was done before I knew it.

The choice of Sublime Extra Fine Merino was wonderful. I love the stitch definition and luxurious softness of the yarn.

I also made my first custom label (with the help of Grumerina, a.k.a. Kathy Veeza). Not the best picture, but you get the idea.

I complemented this pattern with Saartje's Bootees.

These lovelies knit up very quickly with what I had left over from the Baby Surprise Jacket. They are so cute!

And after all is said and done, here is what I have left over!

Note: My last post was November 17, 2007! I am still recovering from my computer crash and have rebuilt my system. Now I just have to put it all in the new chassis and, at last, recover the files from my previous hard drive. Well, I am back and it won't be so long again before I make another post.

Question 17, 1007 Winners

2007-11-17T18:31:00.000-05:00

Thanks to all who entered the last Question 17.

The 3 winners are:

Hannah
Michelle
Lizzie

I have emailed these people and will wait 7 days for their response. In the unlikely event that I don't hear from one of the winners, I will run the random number generator again and pick another entrant.

Happy knitting!

Question 17 1007

2007-10-17T08:06:00.000-04:00

This will be the LAST Question 17...

Tell me about your favourite sock yarn?

My parents came to visit a few weeks ago and my father had on a lovely pair of handknit socks. They had subtle earthy tones and were extremely soft. I had never seen a sock yarn like this before. My mother said the yarn contained aloe vera and jojoba oil. Unfortunately she didn't know the type of yarn.

I figured it out! It is Austermann Step Sock Yarn. I especially like the earth tones of colour number 12.

Special notice: This month I will be picking three entries, at random, each one to receive one ball/skein of sock yarn* (enough to make a pair of adult sized socks). The prize winner will be chosen on November 16th, 2007. If you would like to be included in the draw please send me your email address to fingersfancy at inbox dot com once you have posted your submission to the comments section of this post.

*1 each of Step Yarn, Opal Yarn, and Posh Yarn Emily Sock Yarn.

ETA: If you wish to email me, please put "[FF]" in the subject line (without the quotes). Otherwise your email will be lost.

Socks of Love (1)

2007-09-29T22:32:00.000-04:00

Here is one of the pair of socks that I knit up for my grandmother. She has a green thumb and loves roses. I chose this colourway because it reminds me of a rose garden. I thinks socks look best on feet! But my feet are larger than my grandmother's and the socks didn't fit. Don't you like my hand crafted sock board? I made it just to post pictures of these socks. What a good reuse of a shipping box!

Pattern: Calla Lily Socks

Designer: Sandara Murphy of Sundara Yarn

Yarn: Seacoast Handpainted Panda Yarn (400 yds per skein)

Contents: 60 % superwash merino, 30% bamboo, 10% nylon

Colourway: Strawberry Patch

Needles: 2. 75 mm (2 US) DPN

Tension: 28-32 stitches per 10 cm (4")

This yarn is lovely in every respect. It is very soft and has a sweet sheen. It was a pure joy to knit up. And there was plenty of yarn for this and a child's pairs of socks.

I made some modifications to the pattern because I wanted it to be able to stretch & cling depending on the state of my grandmother's ankles. I increased the number of stitches to start and then decreased gradually to the number indicated by Sundara. I also added a set of ribs on both sides of the front section of the sock for more elasticity. The simple lace pattern was fun to knit and I like the result (see below). Sundara is great for details like the reverse stocking stitch that carries from the cuff down the bottom of the heel.

Love & Hand Knit Socks

2007-09-22T21:57:00.000-04:00

This post is without pictures :o(

My computer is feeling very low these days and will not boot up (hard drive failure I am afraid). So a lot of my spare time will be spent trying to raise her spirits. That means I won't be posting as much as I would like. Wish me luck!

My next series of posts is about hand knit socks made for those I love.

I get immense satisfaction choosing the pattern, considering the size, picking the yarn, and knitting up a pair for those I love. This gesture epitomizes sweet, abiding, true love.

Hand knit socks are love: often taken for granted (until they fail and you are left with a painful blister), intimate (would you knit a pair for the Queen?) and constant through difficult times (i.e., puddles, and snow banks). There is nothing quite so tender as a warm pair of socks snuggling your cold toes on a stormy night. If you listen closely you'll hear their wee sock whispers, "See how much you are loved! The knitter cares for you so much that s/he has made us for you!"

Hand knit socks say "I love you" so very well.

When my computer up and running again I will share some pictures of my sock affairs.

Question 17 0907

2007-09-17T01:29:00.000-04:00

It is that time of month again! Time for question 17 of course! (what else could you be thinking?!). Here it is...

What is your current favourite yarn? Why?

This is hard for me, I have so many favourites! For now I have narrowed it down to two choices:

Eva 8 ply (Aran weight, 55% silk / 45% cashmere yarn. Each skein is 55 g / 100 yards) in colourway "Love is..." by Posh Yarn. It is such a tactile treat. If I could use only one word to describe it, it would be sumptuous. I am completing a project using this yarn and will post it in the next few weeks.

Now I can't resist posting a second yarn. Panda Sock Yarn (60 % super wash merino, 30% bamboo, 10% nylon, 400 yds per skein, 7 sts=1") in colourway Strawberry patch by Seacoast Handpainted Yarns. The yarn is super soft and has a wonderful sheen. I made a lovely pair of Sundara Murphy's Calla Lily socks for my Grandmother in this yarn. I will post these socks next week.

Winner chosen for Q17 0807

2007-09-17T00:00:00.000-04:00

Thank you all for making last month's Q17 such a success! I enjoyed checking out each designer. (You can check them out too by clicking here.)

Of those who entered the contest, Martha (chosen by a random number generator) wins the Shelridge Farm Soft Touch Heather fingering yarn in Highland Mist. Thanks for your winning submission Martha!

Commuter Scarf Pattern

2007-09-15T19:10:00.000-04:00

A. K. A., Diagonal Garter Scarf

I have done it - the pattern for the Commuter Scarf is completed!

If you would like a copy please click here to download. This pattern is free for individual use. If you decide to make this scarf (or just look at the pattern) I would truly appreciate your feedback.

Knit on!

Diagonal Garter Scarf (1)

2007-09-08T22:48:00.000-04:00

Here is my Diagonal Garter Scarf, inspired by Jared's Iro scarf (see Brooklyn Tweed). It is a snap to knit up and so much fun. I figured out the pattern all by myself (big grin) and will share it with you next weekend with my very own first pdf pattern!

In the meantime you can check out my other pictures of this project by clicking the one above.

If you are thinking this would be a fun fall knit (and make a terrific holiday present) you can purchase 2 skeins of Noro Iro and check back next week.

Note: Little Knits has a terrific price on Noro Iro. You can pick your's up here.

ETA: This scarf is now named the Commuter Scarf

Campanula for the Cure

2007-09-02T00:10:00.000-04:00

Here is a terrific idea: raising money for the fight against breast cancer by knitting!

All you have to do is send a donation (of any size) and Ramona of Campanula for the Cure and she will send you a pattern for these lovely socks.

Check out her website for more details. So far she has raised $3900!

We're cheering for your Ramona!

zeebee photos

2007-09-01T10:20:00.000-04:00

Pattern: zeebee beanie

Designer: schmeebot

Yarn: Posh Yarn's "Love is..." colourway, in Eva 8 ply (aran weight) 45% cashmere, 55% silk

Needles: 4.5 mm

Techniques: provisional cast on, garter stitch, short row shaping, garter stitch grafting

More pictures: click here

zeebee beanie

2007-08-25T18:58:00.000-04:00

My zeebee beanie is finally done. I finished the knitting part at my usual pace and had fun with the short row technique. The construction of the hat is fun to watch develop as you knit. I also like the look of the completed crown. But I took weeks to get up the nerve to graft it together. If you read schmeebot's instructions on finishing this may make sense to you too. For me, I start quivering when I read, "should you stumble and mess up the last stitch." It doesn't much matter what comes next because all I feel is fear. My head knows this is silly. I mean, making a mistake while knitting will have very little lasting effect on my world. In fact I can always frog away and try again. Yes, my head knows this, but for my heart it's different.

If you are thinking of making a zeebee too, let me tell you, my heart was wrong! The finishing was fine, not perfect, but fine. schmeebot's writing assumes you are a knitting neophyte and therefore goes into great detail.

It is true, however, I had never done a garter stitch graft/Kitchener stitch. Now that took me some time to figure out. I started with the reverse stockinette graft two times before I finally figured out how to do do a garter graft/Kitchener Stitch.

I thought I would share my findings with you so that you too can do a reverse stockinette, AND garter graft/Kitchener Stitch! First I have embedded a YouTube video of the stockinette graft/Kitchener Stitch (for those of you struggling to teach yourself this stitch). For those who are already comfortable with this stitch scroll down to my table the shows you the differences between the graft stitches.

Grafting / Kitchener Stitch Table

Type	Prep stitches	Front Needle (1st)	Back Needle (2nd)

Stockinette	F - S1: aitPon; B - S1: aitKon	S1: aitK off; S2: aitP on	S1: aitP off; S2: aitK on

Reverse stockinette	F - S1: aitK on; B - S1: aitP on	S1: aitP off; S2: aitK on	S1: aitK off; S2: aitP on

Garter**	F - S1: aitP on; B - S1: aitP on	S1: aitK off; S2: aitP on	S1: aitK off; S2: aitP on
F = front needle; B = back needle; aitP = as if to purl; aitK = as if to knit; ** For this to work, ensure purl bumps are snug up against the front needle, and knit stitches are against the back needle. Repeat as needed! Picture of my zeebee beanie to follow. This beanie is supposed to be for me, but it doesn't suit my large melon head! So this zeebee will have a very limited life. But I am certain there will be other zeebee's in my future!

Vintage Mesh Bag

2007-08-18T19:30:00.000-04:00

Pattern: Mesh Bag

Source: Gifts and Accessories by Beehive, Book 90. Pattern, p. 20.

Yarn: Elsebeth Lavold Hempathy (dk), Rose 006, Turquoise 008

Content: 41% Cotton, 34% Hemp, 25% Modal

Balls: 50 gm, 160 m (I used 2 and a bit to complete this)

Crochet hook: 3.5 mm (US E, US 4)

I finally made this bag. I have wanted to make it for years. I like how it folds down to fit into its own carrying clutch. My version is one row short on the mesh, but it was getting so large I knew it was time to stop.

I hope to give these colourful bags as gifts. They are sure to help reduce the use of a few plastic bags, and do so in style!

I plan to modify this pattern to use one ball of Hempathy. I am not sure it can be done. If successful, the finished pattern will be posted here. In the mean time you can download the vintage pattern. I believe Gifts and Accessories by Beehive, Book 90 is now in the public domain and therefore I can share. If I find out differently I will remove this link immediately.

Download the pattern for this mesh bag (pdf).

Designers List from Q17 0807

2007-08-18T00:01:00.000-04:00

I am enjoying looking up the designers you posted in Quesiton 17 0807. I thought I would share the links with you too. Enjoy surfing!

Victorian Lace, Jane Sowerby
White Lies Designs, Romantic Knits by Joan McGowan-Michael
Bittersweet Blog, Hannah Kaminsky
Cookie A: Monkey Socks, Pomatomus, Hedera, Baudelaire, Red Herring, Queen of Cups
Eunny Jang, everything
Nancy Bush, socks and shawl
Cat Bordhi, her moebius creations, felted bags and catbeds
Wendy Johnson's toe up sock patterns
Elsebeth Lavold designs
Stefanie Japel's Glampyre Knits
Friendly Sock Compilation
Elizabeth Zimmermann (of course)
Kaffe Fassett for his amazing colourwork
Wendy's patterns on her blog Knit & Tonic
Teva Durham, Loop-d-loop book
Charlene Schurch, Sensational knitted socks, etc.
Jenna Adorno on knitty.com - Anitfreeze, Blaze, Tempting, Tempting II
Alexandra Virgiel at Artisokka.com - Alice, Ballet Camisole, Coronet, Fibonacci, Mesilla, Pasha the Penguin, Rose, Soleil
Meg Swanson of Schoolhouse Press
Dorothy Siemens of Fiddlesticks Knitting
Norah Gaughan and her Knitting Nature book
Jane E. Slicer-Smith of Signatur Handknits. Her Harlequin Jacket featured in Knitter's Magazine #85 (Winter 2006)
Sivia Harding Knit Designs - Extraordinary Knitting Patterns
Melanie Gibbons of Pink Lemon Twist - Hanami Stole, Swan Lake (a.k.a., Mystery Stole 3)
Catalina Shawl by Gabriella Chiarenza(you can see I agree! Check out my KAL button)
Veronik Avery (from Montreal no less!) Check out her Short-Row Hat & ZigZag Sweater. And she has a new book - Knitting Classsic Style.

Question 17 0807

2007-08-17T00:09:00.000-04:00

Who is your current favourite designer?

My favourite these days is Hanne Falkenberg of Denmark. I appreciate her use of colour and texture. Some of her work looks so tailored. Take a peak at her Tweedie (below).

Special notice: This month I will be picking one entry, at random, to receive 2 hanks of Shelridge Farm Soft Touch Heather fingering yarn in Highland Mist (enough to make a large pair of socks). The prize winner will be chosen on Sunday, September 16th, 2007. If you would like to be included in the draw please send me your email address to fingersfancy at inbox dot com once you have posted your submission to the comments section of this post.

ETA: If you wish to email me, please put "[FF]" in the subject line (without the quotes). Otherwise your email will be lost.

Favourite Socks

2007-08-12T01:40:00.001-04:00

Here are the re-footed socks I promised to show you.

I believe these are the first socks I knit. And now they are the first socks that I have repaired by replacing the feet.

Yes, the colours are not the same. I used remnant yarn - one is cream and the other is white. I used two strands of fingering weight yarn.

They fit my love perfectly and are certainly unique. They will continue to be a terrific pair of boot socks.

On Catalina

2007-08-09T22:43:00.000-04:00

You may want to check out my post on the Catalina KAL.

It took SO long without my usual setup.

My favourite socks are up next... I just have to crop the picture and post.

See you soon! :o)

Still here

2007-08-07T16:16:00.000-04:00

I must apologize. It has been a long time since I have posted anything to this blog. But don't give up on me. I have a bunch of stuff to post and plan to be doing so soon.

It is just that my computer died. Heat stroke I think. The other day I went to turn it on and it didn't make a sound. No familiar click or whir. Just silence and an acrid smell. I am taking her in to the computer hospital and hope to up an blogging soon. I will keep you posted.

Question 17 0707

2007-07-17T20:37:00.000-04:00

Time for this month's...

I am becoming obsessed with knitting socks (it comes in waves), so my question this month is -

What is your favourite sock pattern
[pair or singleton if you have Single Sock Syndrome (SSS)]
you have ever knit or crocheted?

My favourite is the first (I believe) pair of socks I ever knit. I was frightened because I had heard that turning a heel was very hard. They are called Socks in heavier weight wool (sounded perfect for the beginner) from Gifts and Accessories by Beehive, Book 90. This book was orginally owned by my Great Grandmother. Making things from this book makes me feel closer to my roots. Fortunately these socks are so well loved that they had worn out in a few places. I am currently remaking the feet and enjoying the memories! (See the picture on the right; C - the 3rd pair from the left top corner.)

Pattern a Day Contest

2007-07-11T09:41:00.000-04:00

Here is another contest to consider for your patterns - the Pattern a Day Calendars.

The contest rules are:

Entries must be received by December 15, 2007, 10:00 pm EST.
Entries must include an image and the completed form.
Entries must not include images that infringe upon someone else's copyright, trademark, or license.
To be eligible to win a prize, the participant must be over the age of 18 and must not, in any way, be affiliated with Accord Publishing or Ripley Designs, Inc.

And there is prize money to be won too! You can submit as many patterns as you like.

Another good reason to submit; you get a free copy of the calendar that you submit your pattern too (selected for publication or not!). Submit to both and get TWO calendars!

TOFUtsies Socks

2007-07-10T07:15:00.000-04:00

Here we have a completed pair of socks made with TOFUtsies (toe-foot-sies) yarn in No. 719, Best Foot Forward.

Content: 50% Superwash Wool, 25% SOYSILK brand fiber, 22.5%, Cotton, 2.5% Chitin (made from shrimp and crab shells!)

Tension: 8 sts = 1"

Needles: 2.75 mm (US 2)

425 m / 100 g ball (makes a pair of socks with lots to spare)

Care: machine wash and dry

Pattern: Priscilla's Dream Socks (click for the PDF)

Also found in Favorite Socks: 25 Timeless Designs from Interweave (ISBN: 1596680326)

I came across the TOFUtsies in one of my favourite LYS Wool n'Things. Gisèle had a knitted sock sample and I couldn't believe how soft and supple it felt. Of course I had to buy a ball and make a pair.

I enjoyed the knitting experience but there are few things I will do differently in the future.

My tension was the same as the label, however, I think that this yarn would be better on slightly smaller needles for a sturdier end result.
I followed the pattern's yo technique for the short row heel and toe - next time I will try the Knit Encroachment and Purl Encroachment stitches for the short rows for a tidier, sturdier miter.
I bound off using the zig-zag technique from the pattern. I found it difficult to complete this bind-off neatly. The limited elasticity of the yarn contributed to this problem, but I am not too fond the resultant ridge. I redid the right toe because I was so unhappy with the result (the picture is of my first attempt). Next time I will definitely graft the toe to the foot (Kitchener Stitch).

I also wonder how this yarn will wear. Only time will tell.

(I have a number of other projects completed or nearly done, so check back later this week for more updates.)

Question 17 0607

2007-06-19T22:06:00.000-04:00

Goodness, I'm late! Sorry. Here it is this month's

(or Question 19, as the case may be)

Where can we find your favourite undiscovered* craft blogger?

(Please include the web address so we can discover them too.)

My answer: Hyldemor by Anni. She also has an older blog called the Knitting Adventuress (Technorati rank is 350,504)

* If pressed, I mean anything other than a super popular blog like the Yarn Harlot (Technorati rank is 316, one of the Top 500.)

Inspiration

2007-06-19T21:35:00.000-04:00

I feel a wave of inspiration...
Here's a wish for its realization.

sundara's yarns are a favourite for sure!

Striped Tea Cosy

2007-06-15T21:19:00.000-04:00

As promised, here are pictures of my completed Striped Tea Cosy.

I didn't like the pom-pon scale, nor how it perched on top of the cosy. Instead I attached modified Bachelor's Buttonhole. (as usual, click to enlarge each picture)

	Striped Cosy with Pom-Pon (Emu, Pattern No. 6196), 8-cup teapot. Yarn: Patons Shetland Chunky: Earthy Brown & Canyon Variegated, 1 x 100 g ball each. Needle: 6 mm Denise Interchangable
	Bachelor's Buttonhole (modified), The Harmony Guides 300 Crochet Stitches, Volume 6, p. 72. I didn't make the stem and I used chunky and aran weight yarn to crochet this. I ran out of Paton's Shetland chunky and completed it with an aran weight yarn I had remaining from a previous project (You can see the colour difference).
	I like this robust embelishment to the tea cosy. It is funny, the Bachelor's Button looks larger here than I perceive it to be in real life. Ah well, I like it either way. (The pom-pon looked smaller to me too; almost anemic.)
	Close up of crocheted Hot Pad, in Granule Stitch, The Harmony Guides 300 Crochet Stitches, Volume 6, p. 36. Yarn: Patons Shetland Chunky: Canyon Variegated (remants) The Hot Pad is slightly irregular (that's why I am not showing the single crochet stitch border) but I like the Granule stitch and I wanted to show it to you.
	You're right, this has nothing to do with tea! I couldn't resist showing you this. . . It is some of Noro Iro, Colourway # 44 that I knit in 2-Stitch Garter Ribs from The Harmony Guides 450 Knitting Stitches, Volume 2, p. 18. I really like it. However, I have changed to my own pattern and will be making a scarf (under the influence of Jared's brooklyntweed blog). The needles are 6.5 mm (horrid stuff, I have switched to Denise's Interchangeable Needles). ETA: This scarf has become the Commuter Scarf!

Looking for Infinity Soysilk

2007-06-14T10:37:00.000-04:00

Preferably in Canada, eh! I am SO tired of paying duty. I went to the South West Trading Company's website to find Canadian LYS's that carry SWTC products. I emailed a few that are close by, have readily available contact information, or are of emotional significance to me. Here is my email message:

Dear [Yarn Store Name Here];
I would like to order Soysilk Infinity yarn in Natural. Do you have any in stock? What is your price?
Also, do you have Addi Circular Lace Needles (3.5 mm)?
As well, sometime in the future I am thinking of purchasing allhemp3. This yarn is from Lana Knits, a Canadian Company. Their website is http://www.lanaknits.com/canhome.html. Do you carry this yarn?
Thank you!
Ruth (in Ottawa)

Store (in the order contacted)	Location	Response in 24 hrs.?	Response
Wool N' Things	Orleans ON	Yes	Infinity: They do not carry this yarn, but carry a soysilk Oasis - $15.50 (220 yards) & Pheonix - $15.50(160 yards) ATLN: In stock. LKA: Does not carry. Has Hempathy by Elsebeth Lavold that contains hemp ($5.95).
Effiloché	Montréal PQ	Yes	Infinity: Not in stock, but will check into getting some. They do have SWTC Pure, Karaoke, Gianna and Tofutsies. ATLN: On back order as these needles have sold out and are currently in production. LKA: Planning to order.
Ram Wools	Winnipeg MB	Yes	Infinity: Don't carry, but will look into carrying it in the future. ATLN: In stock. $21.90 CND LKA: Don't carry, but will look into carrying it in the future.
Unwind Yarn House	New Market ON	Yes Fastest response	Infinity: Carries SWTC yarns but not this on. Is willing to order it for me and gave me a projected cost of $20 CND (I think this is reasonable). ATLN: In stock. $22.00 CND LKA: allhemp6 in stock, could readily get allhemp3 for me.
Spun Fibre Arts	Burlington ON	No	Infinity: Pending. ATLN: Pending. LKA: Pending.
Cross Stitch Cupboard	Ottawa ON	Yes	Infinity: Do not carry. ATLN: Do not carry. LKA: Do not carry. Note: Their store is moving this summer and they are attempting to keep their stock low before the move. They may consider carrying these items after the move.
Knit or Knot	Aurora ON	No	Infinity: Pending. ATLN: Pending. LKA: Pending.
Romni Wools	Toronto ON	Yes	Infinity: Do not stock. ATLN: In stock. LKA: Carry allhemp6 (DK weight) but not allhemp3
Knit-O-Matic	Toronto ON	Yes	Infinity: Not in stock. ATLN: In stock. LKA: Have allhemp3 AND allhemp6 in stock.
Yarn Forward and Sew On*	Ottawa ON	Went in person	Infinity: Currently do not carry any SWTC yarn but will look into it for me. ATLN: Are planning to get on their next Addi order. Will put one aside for me if I wish. LKA: Do not carry. One of the employees is thought to have tried it but the outcome of her review is unknown. If she likes it, they will get it. (She is only there part time and not there on the day I strolled down.

SWTC = South West Trading Company; ATLN = Addi Turbo Lace Needles ; LKA = Lana Knits allhemp ; *My neighbourhood yarn store, they weren't on the SWTC list of stores carrying their products, I just went there because it's close by and I would love it if they would carry these products.
This post was inspired by:

Canadian Living: Guide to organic and eco-friendly yarns, Part 1: Organic wool, cotton, hemp, Part 2: Linen, soy silk and bamboo, plus our shopping guide, by Dayna Boyer.
Knitty.com: Hip in Hemp skirt pattern (knit in Hempathy, see Wool n'Things at the top of the table)
Wendy Bernard's Knit and Tonic Blog Entries: No-Excuse Knitting, and Can the Hemp be all that?

Edited To Add (ETA): Thank you Joanne, Sophie, Pauline and Chery! I truly appreciate your thoughtfulness (dare I say kindness). Just so you know, I decided to go with Misti Alpaca Lace Weight in Natural from my LYS. But now I know, Crown Mountain Farms will ship worldwide (very good to know), and I have a few other places to check for this yarn in Canada. For stashing of course :o) !

Mystery Stole 3 Begins

2007-06-14T02:05:00.000-04:00

Have you heard about the Mystery Stole 3?
It's a knit-a-long from designer Melanie Gibbons.
Membership opened June 8th and will close July 6th, 2007.
You can join by clicking here.

Melanie's previous Mystery stoles can be seen here (Leda's Dream, 2005) and here (Scheherazade, 2006). She also designed the Bristow Cardigan for Knitty.com.

This year's project has the option of including 8/0 seed beads. What a terrific idea! Sounds like fun, doesn't it?

Multi-tasking

2007-06-11T22:28:00.000-04:00

	I love tea and I was lucky enough to get a Brown Betty Teapot! It makes such lovely tea. One thing though, it cools off if we take our time drinking it. The solution, of course, is to make a tea cosy. And I have done it (Emu, No. 6196 - Striped Cosy with Pom-Pon). My love is teasing me that I now have truly become an old fogey! I will take pictures soon. / I tried the pom-pon but did not like it. Instead I crocheted a modified Bachelor's Button. I also crocheted a hot pad for the bottom of the teapot. / The yarn I have used is Patons Shetland Chunky - Earthy Brown and Canyon Variegated from my stash. / I had purchased this yarn for another Pick-up Diamond Helmet, Knitter's Magazine K77, Winter 2004, p. 46 (the one pictured here is also knit with Patons Shetland Chunky) but to make the tea cosy instead.


	I am also doing more work on my Reversible Cable Knit Scarf. I am loving it. (Sorry, this is an old photo.)
	I have started the Catalina Shawl with Fiddlesticks Garnet Lace yarn. It is 50% silk and 50% merino wool. This is my first lace project and there has been a steep learning curve. I think I have had to rip out at least 5 times! I am making headway now. Pictures are coming.
	After seeing Jared's zeebee and garter stitch scarf I knew I had to make one too. (see his entries for 5.29.2007 and 6.07.2007) I am making my own with Dee's Posh Yarn, Eva 8 ply cashmere & silk in Love is... colourway. Truly luscious!
	And I have added another project to my list (the only one I will admit to today). I want to make a Clapotis wrap in Hand Maiden fine yarn, Lady Godiva, Renaissance Colourway. I bought this yarn from an American shop (lovely to do business with them) and had to pay duty when it arrived (ouch). And it burned all the more when I found out that Hand Maiden fine yarn is hand dyed in Canada!

I have not touched my Autumn Afternoons Cardigan since March...

Hip Hats

2007-06-05T08:54:00.001-04:00

Title: Get Your Crochet On: Hip Hats & Cool Caps
Author: Afya Ibomu
Paperback: 128 pages
Publisher: Taunton (Nov 7, 2006)
ISBN-10: 1561588504
ISBN-13: 978-1561588503

Given my love of crocheting hats I knew I had to get this book when I saw it on the CraftSanity Blog here. I wasn't disappointed! It is appealing from the very start. Although a paperback, the paper weight is substantial. The cover is pre-folded 1/4" from the spine to help keep the book open without hands - a good design element for a pattern book. It is a colourful book with wonderful pictures and an easy to read style. The Getting Started section is targeted to the beginner. Afya has created the best set of crochet instructions I have seen. She has full colour pictures and diagrams to illustrate all the key points and step-by-step instructions. The diagrams are large and easy to understand. The "Making a Bib" (also called a bill) section is terrific; I haven't found this information elsewhere. Afya offers instructions for both a smaller or larger bib that can be added to many of her designs.

The 20 original designs are terrific. I think my favourites are The MC (Master of Ceremonies Rap Artist) a classic baseball cap, Queen (see picture), Kinky Reggae (this pattern is available for free on the CraftSanity Blog); Soon Come (similar to a newsboy-style cap), O.G. (Original gangsta) fedora type, Soldier (see picture), and Superfly. There are a few designs that are made to accommodate dreads. The patterns are clearly written. The only problem is that there are no measurements available for each finished project. The patterns either are for one-size or have small, medium and large adjustments.

All in all, this book is a very welcome addition to my crochet library. All my other crochet hat books have only caucasian models and many of the designs are downright hilarious. I think the beginner to the advanced crocheter would enjoy and use this book. Thank you Afya for publishing your work!

Spinning considered

2007-06-04T06:41:00.000-04:00

After reading this Yarn Harlot post I now want to spin. Don't tell anyone - my passion for yarn, crochet and knitting already have those close to me worried.

What, more yarn?!
Do you need more yarn?
Yes, yes, lovely, but shouldn't you (fill in the blank) first?

My proclivities are hard to explain to those not besotted with yarn. I suppose, if I stop to think about it, I too am puzzled about why they aren't more interested. Anyway, I have a two bumps of, pre-dyed, Corriedale Wool on their way to me. Apparently corriedale fibers are generally long and therefore a good choice for me, an absolute beginner.

I already have a spindle (well actually more than one) from Ma & Pa's Spindles. I'll let you know how it goes.

Watermelon Hat

2007-06-02T23:12:00.004-04:00

Sandia, by Sarah-Hope Parmeter

Have you seen the latest issue of MagKnits (June 2007)? This little hat is so cute. And with my hat obsession I may just have to knit it up! Check out this issue of MagKnits here.

ETA (2009-NOV-10): Unfortunately MagKnits is no more. However, if you are looking for Sarah-Hope's pattern, she has posted it on her blog at http://www.whatifknits.com/. Click HERE for the pattern. Hip-hip-hooray!

Just in time for summer

2007-06-02T22:26:00.000-04:00

Hunter V-neck Sweater - DONE!

This pattern is my modification of the Rowan Knitting Magazine, Number 29, page 70 sweater designed by Kim Hargraves. It is a loose fitting sweater, finger-tip length, with modified drop sleeves. All finished edges are rolled (body, cuff, and V-neck). It measures 56" across the chest. It required 19 skeins (50 gm) of Cotton Classic by Tahki (Royal Blue 3870) to complete.

This sweater relatively heavy and I want to strengthen the shoulder seams. I will wash it and then stitch reinforcing bands to the wrong side of the shoulder seams.

Now that is a lot of stocking stitch!

Edited to Add (ETA): Brat asked if this was the true colour. I am happy to say this exactly the correct colour - at least on my monitor!

June 4th: The sweater has washed up beautifully and I have decided to forgo the reinforced shoulder seams. So now, it truly is done!

Wild Flowers

2007-06-01T15:03:00.000-04:00

Lotus Pinnatus, Nanaimo BC CANADA

White Fawn Lily, Nanaimo BC CANADA

These pictures are courtesy of my parents. They are avid hikers (I call them mountain goats!) and enjoy taking pictures of the wild flowers they find. The Lotus pinnatous is an endangered species. Enjoy!

Raffle Notice

2007-05-29T20:23:00.000-04:00

Draw takes place on Saturday, June 9th, 2007.
Raffle supports Breakthrough Breast Cancer Care.
Each ticket is ~ $2 per ticket (via PayPal if you wish)
Check out the amazing prizes at Wendy's Raffle!
(Contributors: Posh Yarn; The Yarn Yard; Celtic Memory Yarns; Thank Ewe; Hip Knits; Art of Yarn; Natural Dye Studio; Get Knitted; Bright Dyes; Noni Patterns; shelbyB; and of course from Wendy.)

Craft in America

2007-05-27T20:26:00.000-04:00

New three part series to air on PBS. (Thank you Jennifer for posting about this!)

First-run Airdates:
Memory - May 30, 2007; 8p EDT/PDT
Landscape - May 30, 2007; 9p EDT/PDT
Community - May 30, 2007; 10p EDT/PDT

Check your local listings - sigh, I have to wait. It is not available in Canada yet. Let me know if you find out when it will be on in Canada, okay?

For the love of crafts, pass it on!

From the press release:

Life Becomes Art: CRAFT IN AMERICA Celebrates the Rich Legacy of An American Artform
Landmark project comprises 3-part PBS series, national touring exhibition and major publication.

Soft Drawstring Pouch

2007-05-27T12:25:00.000-04:00

I made one too (large size).

It is fun to check out how others have made this project (Last Minute Knitted Gifts, p. 85). Mine is a little different as I didn't want to make it in a pastel colour. This is part of a birthday gift for a friend. She is not a girlie-girl and I thought an ultra femme pastel pouch would be a tad over the top for her. For me, my inner princess (known to very few) wouldn't mind a pastel pouch - in softest bamboo of course!

Unfortunately the colours are all wrong in this photo. I blame the flash. To see the true colours of the Estelle Mystik DK I have uploaded the swatches for you to check out below.


Emerald Green 066	Salmon - 005

Estelle Mystik DK is 54% Egyptian Cotton and 46% Viscose. It has a lovely sheen and an elegant drape. In general it is a pleasure to knit with. Two things that made my work a little more challenging than usual: the slipperiness of the yarn, and how easily it separates into its separate threads. Still, the finished result is worth these minor irritations.

I found this project that is also made with Estelle Mystik DK. It is simply lovely. This Sizzle pattern (designed by Wendy Bernard at Knit and Tonic, and available here) is knit up by the extraordinarily talented Felicia Lo (she is modeling her work). I think she used Rich Wine 062 or Berry 050. Felicia's blog is called Sweet Georgia, and although she is taking a hiatus for 6 - 12 months, her blog is definitely worth a read!

Adding beads to knitting
How do you like the beads on this bag? It was fun and easy to do. There a few ways to add beads to a project - I followed the hooking as you go directions from the Knitty.com article: Seduced by Beads written by Sivia Harding. Sivia's diagram is found here. The trick is having a crochet hook small enough to fit through the bead! I used an antique hook that was passed down to me (previously used for making lace). I think it is about 1.5 mm in diameter. I took my stitches off of the knitting needle to place the bead. Sivia is right, once the bead is in place you will not lose / drop the stitch. After seating the bead I put the loop back on the left hand needle and knit as usual. My beads are 4mm and wooden (very inexpensive).

Ottawa Knit & Crochet Group

2007-05-25T12:26:00.000-04:00

I have found an Ottawa Knitting & Crochet Group! I am nervous about attending but I am determined to go.

Here is the information for those of you, dear reader, who may happen to be in Ottawa too.

When: Every 3rd Friday of the month after 6 pm (next meeting will be June 15th - I don't think I can go this date, but I will go on July 20th)
Where: Arrow & Loon Pub 99 Fifth Avenue (at Bank Street, in the Glebe.
Show up for dinner and drinks, bring your work with you.
Apparently there is a core group of about 6 people and they are happy to have others join.

The group was formed out of a local yarn store, Yarn Forward & Sew On at 581 Bank Street. Their telephone number is (613) 237-8008.

Perhaps we'll meet there!

Mangoes for Breakfast

2007-05-23T07:26:00.001-04:00

Crochet Hooks: 9 mm (N) & 5 mm(H)
Yarn: (Main Colour = MC; Contrast Colour = CC)

MC 1: Cotton BIG Sport by Idena - Mango, 20 balls, 65% Cotton/35% Acrylic, 100 gm, 80 m, Needle: 7 mm, Tension: 12 sts = 10 cm (4”)

MC 2 (or CC): Melody by Patons - Sunny Yellow, 20 balls, 68% Acrylic/32% Nylon, 100 gm, 78 m, Needle : 10mm, Tension: 9sts = 10cm (4")

CC: Big Point by Gedifra - Cherry, 1 ball, 60% Cotton/40% Acrylic, 33 m, 50 gm, Needle: 10 mm, Tension: 9 sts x 10 rows

CC: Luisa by Gedifra - Cantaloupe, 1 ball, 55% Cotton/ 45% Acrylic, 60 m, 50 gm, Needle: 6 mm; Tension: 14 sts x 18 rows

CC: Luisa by Gedifra - Lime, 1 ball, 55% Cotton/ 45% Acrylic, 60 m, 50 gm, Needle: 6 mm; Tension: 14 sts x 18 rows

CC: Melissa by Austermann - Tapenade, 4 balls, 33% Acrylic Microfibre/ 33% Cotton/ 28% Nylon/ 6% Polyester, 45 m, 50g, Needle: 5.5-6.0 mm, Tension: 10 st/10 cm

CC: Melissa by Austermann - Burgundy Lights, 4 balls, 33% Acrylic Microfibre/ 33% Cotton/ 28% Nylon/ 6% Polyester, 45 m, 50g, Needle: 5.5-6.0 mm, Tension: 10 st/10 cm

Afghan size: 8" squares, Double bed, 8 x 10 = 80 squares

Pattern: (makes one 8" x 8" square)

Start using 9 mm crochet hook

Foundation chain: Using CC, ch 4, join with Sl st to form ring

Round 1: Ch 3 (counts as DC now and throughout), DC2 in ring, ch 2, *DC 3 in ring, ch 2, repeat from * 3 times, join with Sl st to top of beginning ch 3

Round 2: Ch 3, 1 DC in next st x 2, then DC 2 in ch 2 corner, ch 2, and DC 2 in same ch 2 corner, *1 DC in next st x 3, then DC 2 in ch 2 corner, ch 2, and DC 2 in same ch 2 corner, repeat from * 3 times, join with Sl st to top of beginning ch 3.

Round 3: Change to MC 1. Ch 3, 1 DC in next st x 4, then DC 2 in ch 2 corner, ch 2, and DC 2 in same ch 2 corner, *1 DC in next st x 7, then DC 2 in ch 2 corner, ch 2, and DC 2 in same ch 2 corner, repeat from * 3 times, 1 DC in next st x 2, join with Sl st to top of beginning ch 3.

Round 4: Ch 3, 1 DC in next st x 6, then DC 2 in ch 2 corner, ch 2, and DC 2 in same ch 2 corner, *1 DC in next st x 11, then DC 2 in ch 2 corner, ch 2, and DC 2 in same ch 2 corner, repeat from * 3 times, 1 DC in next st x 4, join with Sl st to top of beginning ch 3.

Round 5: Change to 5 mm crochet hook and MC 2. Ch 3, 1 DC in next st x 8, then DC 2 in ch 2 corner, ch 3, and DC 2 in same ch 2 corner, *1 DC in next st x 15, then DC 2 in ch 2 corner, ch 3, and DC 2 in same ch 2 corner, repeat from * 3 times, 1 DC in next st x 6, join with Sl st to top of beginning ch 3.

Round 6: Ch 2, 1 sc in next st x 10, then sc 2 in ch 3 corner, ch 3, and sc 2 in same ch 3 corner, *1 sc in next st x 19, then sc 2 in ch 3 corner, ch 3, and sc 3 in same ch 3 corner, repeat from * 3 times, 1 sc in next st x 8, join with Sl st to top of beginning ch 2. Fasten off.

Join the squares using a thin yarn of similar colour to MC 2 using a mattress stitch.

I will join my squares in random order using this List Randomizer.

The stitches used in this pattern are easy to learn. If you wish to read a tutorial on these stitches go here (left hand & right hand).

Abbreviations: ch = chain, DC = double crochet, sc = single crochet, sl st = slip stitch

Check out the Catalina Shawl

2007-05-22T14:56:00.000-04:00

I read the weblogs on my blog roll (see sidebar) regularly. One on the list is g.bella knits - a truly enjoyable blog of an up and coming knitting designer. Weaved through her blog are discussions of her trials and triumphs with each knitted project and useful reviews of various yarns. Recently she has developed a few patterns. One is her Clessidra Socks published this spring in Knitty.com (free). Her most recent pattern is the Catalina Shawl. It is lovely and available in PDF for $6.00 (USD). I am going to knit this pattern as soon as my yarn comes from Sundara Yarn (see below). I'll keep you posted on my progress.

I highly recommend checking out Gabriella's patterns and her blog.

Mad Hatter

2007-05-22T08:32:00.000-04:00


Picture 1	Picture 2

I have fallen in love with making crocheted hats. It is so much fun and so fast!

This all started with an odd ball yarn (Clara by Filatura Di Crosa in Melon) . It is a lovely braided 100% wool yarn that is so soft and stretchy. I thought it would make a terrific hat, but for whom? (I confess, my lovely large head does not sport hats well.) Then I realized, I have a very good friend who is trying to grow her natural black hair. She feels it is at an awkward stage right now and loves to wear hats. I now had a project with a purpose!

I started with the Headhuggers There Are Holes In My Hat -- Skully Version pattern. The Clara turned out to be too bulky for this pattern. So, what to do? Go check out the LYS of course! (Note: I made the large adult size of this pattern - 16 rounds)

I came home with Lang Tosca in 059 (gold, orange, rust) and 095 (brown, red). It was so lovely to crochet with and so much fun with the changing colours.

I was having such a great time and couldn't stop there. I went out and got some cotton - Bernat Handcrafter Cotton in Potpourri Ombre. (I also got Sunkissed Ombre and Country Sage Ombre - at less than $1.50 a ball I couldn't resist.)

I learned how to make a Reverse Single Crochet border (see below)

Reverse Singe Crochet Border - At the end of your crochet row chain 1. Do not turn your work (or if you are working in the round, go in the counter clockwise direction). Insert your hook in the previous stitch. Wrap the yarn over the hook. Draw the yarn through the stitch. You will now have 2 loops on your hook. Wrap the yarn over your hook again and draw the yarn through both loops. Continue in this fashion to create a lovely border.

Picture 1: (L to R) Tam (variation on Skully) in Tosca 095 , Skully in Tosca 059, Skully in Potpourri Ombre, Mesh Cap (Hooked Hats, 20 Easy Crochet Projects p. 29) in Clara with some Cotton and Tosca.

Picture 2: Side view of the Tam in Tosca 095 (the brim is in Lily Cotton Sugar'n Spice Worsted Warm Brown)

Ravelry is cool

2007-05-21T09:03:00.000-04:00

I think. I'm not a member so I don't know for sure.

This is a new group (the developers call it a knit and crochet community) that is starting up. Right now, since it under development (beta), one can't sign up without an invitation. But sometime, hopefully soon, the rest of us will be able to join.

Check it out!

ETA (2007-JUN-05): Ravelry is still in its beta form. They have had a greater request for membership than they anticipated. So those of us on the waiting list, don't despair, read this instead. (An explanation by one of the developers, Casey)

Masters in Knitting?

2007-05-18T10:32:00.000-04:00

I am so excited! I just stumbled onto the The Knitting Guild Association's website. I didn't know such an organization existed!? And then I found out that they have correspondence programs and a Master's Program that evaluates knitters. I want to sign up immediately. But, I have to say, my knitting expenses have skyrocketed recently (not that I regret my recent stash and library additions) and I just can't do it. Well, this is definitely on my "To Do" list.

Good, one burning question answered. Now I know how Lily Chin earned the title Master Knitter.

Here are a few links that will answer your questions about the correspondence courses and the Master's Knitting Program.

Correspondence Courses
FAQs for the Master's Program (in PDF)
An article that describes the process of the Master's Program. On Your Way to the Masters (in PDF)
Here is the Knitting Guild Association's Order Form.
And, last but not least, a FREE Learn to Knit Lesson.

New Afghan

2007-05-17T14:09:00.000-04:00

I have started on a new crocheted afghan. I am calling it Mangoes for Breakfast.

I don't think my pictures do justice to the colors; the yellow is more sunny. This all started with the purchase of a yarn on sale called Cotton Big Sport - Mango. This bright colour is much zestier than my usual preference. Understandably, it made me think of mangoes and their golden yellow flesh. My thoughts then took me to memories of a dear friend who has moved halfway across the continent. She loves yellow. Every time she moves she paints her kitchen a glorious yellow colour. Then the idea came to me; why not make her a bright, sunny, glorious afghan that pays tribute to mangoes everywhere and their sunshine yellowness?

I have been inspired by posts elsewhere that celebrate these bright colours. Here are some for you to visit:

The Knitting Adventuress on blogspot.com ;
The cover photo for Debbie Bliss's book Home;
The Prairie Braid Quilt at patchpieces.com;
Nona's Log Cabin Swatches.

There are actually many more places and people that inspire this project. There are too many to list (and I have lost some of their links - sorry).

I planned to knit these squares. I considered intarsia squares, centre-out mitered squares, and outside-in mitered squares. Unfortunately the yarn I am using is moslty discontinued and of slightly varied weights. I find that crochet is more forgiving of this and that's how I returned to my standard granny square pattern.

Question 17 0507

2007-05-17T12:08:00.001-04:00

I am trying something different. On the 17th of each month I will post a question for you. I am hoping this will generate some interest and help promote our craft. Please answer by clicking on the comment link at the bottom of this post. Thanks a bunch! (Feel free to grab the Question 17 button for your blog.)

Question 17 (0507):

What is your favourite free pattern found on the web? (Please supply the link.) Have you made this pattern yet?

receiving

2007-05-16T23:44:00.000-04:00

a boy's own jacket - finished!

The ribbon arrived! I am so excited to finish this project.

Two jacquard ribbons (eBay) - The darker ribbon seemed to have a green tinge to the background and I thought the simple Greek Square Key design suited the stripes better.

Here I attached one side with blue and white ribbon. You can see some nylon threads in the close-up, but IRL the tread is invisible.

The jacket is finished and ready to wrap!

The jacket is in a plain white box tied with the Greek Square Key jacquard ribbon.

What a great feeling! I am quite happy with the finished project. I learned a lot and enjoyed the process. AND the jacket is ready for our friend's first birthday.

I had the tremendous pleasure of giving this to his parents. They were thrilled. And the jacket fit perfectly! There is even a little room to grow.

Sometimes, I think it is a bit overwhelming for people to receive a knitted gift, especially if they are kith rather than kin. Creating something like this is a labour of love. The amount of effort required to complete it is a more than often goes into purchasing a birthday gift. For me though, my greatest pleasure is giving something special that is appreciated and useful. So, really, I am the one that is receiving! So now, how do you interpret "It is more blessed to give than to receive"?

pattern contest(s)

2007-05-16T08:28:00.000-04:00

Dear Reader;
Have you ever thought of designing a pattern? Are you a secret designer (you make things of your own design, don't write the pattern down, or tell others about your work)? Are you a developing designer? Here are some opportunities that you should consider. Go for it! Share your talent and creativity! You have nothing to lose. (I'll post the contests as I find them.)

---------------------------------

Click for details!

---------------------------------

Create a Knitty.com Submission

---------------------------------

Simply Knitting Pattern Challenge

13 publications per year

Send your pattern and photos of the item and yourself (or you can send them the actual item) to:

Pattern Challenge, Simply Knitting, Future, 30 Monmouth Street, Bath BA1 2BW

or email the details and your photos to simplyknitting@futurenet.co.uk

e.g., Spring 2007 Winner - Simple Knit Hat made with 1 x 50 gm DK yarn (self-patterning)

---------------------------------

zipper story

2007-05-04T21:50:00.000-04:00

a boy's own jacket - zipper sizing and placement

Pictures	Steps

	I generally followed the instructions on Stan's Sewing Supply website. Measure the zipper to fit the garment. Mark the zipper at the top of the garment (M1) and 2.5 cm above M1 (makes M2). Clip the teeth between these two marks. I used a zipper shortening tool (see picture). You could also use toenail clippers.

	Cut the excess zipper at the M2 marks. Sear the ends with a candle flame (much more precise than using a match) to prevent fraying.

	The picture shows the antique brass zipper stops and a pair of flat nosed pliers (I also use them for beading). But before I can attach the zipper stops I need to peel away the remaining "roots" of the teeth I clipped.

	You can see the "roots" have been removed and the zipper stops have been crimped in place just above the top tooth on each side.

	Here is a close up. Just above the zipper stops fold the zipper tape backwards and slightly off to the side of the zipper. Pin and then stitch it in place to secure the folded edge. Now you are ready to attach the zipper.

	I followed Nancie M. Wiseman's The Knitter's Book of Finishing Techniques (p. 100). The zipper is pinned in place. Note that the zipper is closed during this procedure.

	I am basting the zipper in with white thread. There a are few other steps that are outlined here on My Knitting Life. Scroll down to November 17 & 19, 2004.

	Look, the zipper is in place! I took lots of breaks with this detail work because once I became tired the quality of my work really deteriorated.

	Here is a close up of the zipper end. I chose a 2-way #5 plastic bottom separating zipper. If I were to do this again, I would chose a coil jacket bottom separating zipper. Since this is a child's jacket there is less need for a 2-way zipper. Also, the lighter weight of a coil zipper would be better for this cotton mix yarn (Rowan Calmer).

	Zipper top. The selvage edge is (right side) K1, P1, and (wrong side) P1, K1. This creates a garter edge along side a column of reverse stockinette. (This is a modification from the original pattern.)

	Remember my hood troubles? Well, here is a side view of the finished hood. I think it looks fine - I am much happier with this than with my first attempt.

I am not quite finished with this project. I am going to attach a jacquard ribbon to the back of the zipper tape to create a more finished look. My Knitting Life has a picture of this technique here. I'll show you how it looks when I am all done. I am so happy that this jacket is going to be ready for his birthday!

stripe madness

2007-04-30T23:15:00.000-04:00

a boy's own jacket

I solved the hood dilemma! After much calculating and pondering of the pictures in Nursery Knits I decided to follow the row increases as indicated for the smallest size. I used the same number of stitches as for the larger size. So the end result was increasing every four rows from 62 stitches to 80 stitches. I then followed the pattern as it is written. The result is perfect!

Now for weaving in the ends. I will have to think twice about doing stripes again! Although I have found Aija's website that details how to weave in ends while knitting. She credits Jennifer "JP" Pett-Ridge for teaching her this technique. This tutorial is very image intensive, so beware if you are currently on a slower server. Here is the direct link to the tutorial http://sockpr0n.blogspot.com/2006/10/how-to-weave-in-ends-while-knitting.html. So if I do stripes again (I am sure I will succumb, I love the clean crisp geometry of stripes) I will try this method, or I will develop my own way of carrying the yarn along with the new stripe within the salvage edge (I am sure I can figure this out).

My next step for this project is sizing and sewing the zipper in.

Sorry, no knitting pictures today - instead I'll share a beautiful picture of my first Betta Raja.

happy post?

2007-04-26T18:54:00.000-04:00

This was going to be such a happy post! I have almost completed all of the pieces for the a boy's own jacket. That sounds pretty good, doesn't it? The only problem is the height of the hood is almost equal to the height of the jacket body!? Now that can't be right. So I searched for errata on Zoe Mellor's book Nursery Knits and found this link on KnittingHelp.com. Unfortunately, it doesn't list any corrections for my project. Someone else posted pictures of their work in progress here. The hood looks much better. I think s/he is making a smaller size.

The hood instructions are a little ambiguous but I did my best to decipher them. Maybe you can point out my error.

The pattern reads:

The decreases worked okay. It is the increases where I had my problem. There are 3 sizes for this pattern (6-12 months, 1-2 years, 2-3 years), and differences in size are usually noted like so: Cast on 62 (66:70) sts. Since I am making the largest size I followed the last number between the brackets and after the colon. For the increases I interpreted the and as a colon.

I think I will try using the first number within the brackets for my increase rows. Any other ideas/suggestions?

sweater day

2007-04-23T10:31:00.000-04:00


sweater 1	sweater 2	final sweater

Tiny of Tots TV

I completed a sweater in less than 24 hours! Of course it helps that the sweater is for a 12" toy. The toy is my version of Tiny from Tots TV on BBC. When I decided to make Tiny I didn't know anything about Tots TV, I just thought Alan Dart had created a very cute boy doll pattern. So this doll is named Twinkle rather than Tiny.

Twinkle has been one of those projects that took me a long time to decide that it is completed. That is why I made three sweaters for him! The first sweater (see sweater 1) was too small. It fit, but was too short and tight. The yarn was marked as DK but was more likely Sport weight. The second sweater fit (one of my first attempts at converting a pattern based on tension - this yarn is chunky weight) did not please the recipient of the toy - too dark, not blue enough! So I decided to do another sweater with the sport weight yarn. As you can see (final sweater) it fits and is blue! The buttons are snaps in navy and red. Sigh, I think Twinkle is complete!


front	back

front page	back page

left overs

2007-04-22T00:43:00.000-04:00


Click on pictures to enlarge

Here is the pillow that I completed to go with my Easy Granny Quilt Afghan. I had some left over yarn that I could not imagine using again and thought I would see what I could come up with for a throw cushion.

The throw cushion is so easy - a simple garter stitch rectangle.

Easy Granny Throw Cushion
(just in case you wanted to know exactly what I did)

Yarn: Lion Brand Homespun or similar weight yarn
Tension: 14 st
sts and 20 rows = 4" (10cm) on size 10 (6mm) needles
Finished dimensions: 16.5" x 33"
Cast-on: 58 stitches
Row 1: K1 to end
Repeat rows 2 - 164
Bind off last row.

Change colours as desired. Consider that there are two sides. Side one is 16.5" (~82 rows); you may wish to change the pattern at this point.

When completed the rectangle fold to make a 16.5" square and mattress stitch the two sides.

Insert a 16" x 16" square cushion form (machine washable), then close the remaining end with a mattress stitch.

I considered placing a button in the middle of the cushion (on each side). The button I chose was too pale and drew too much attention to the centre, therefore I decided to do without a button.

I am so happy to have used up this yarn! And it adds to the gift to my brother.

special delivery

2007-04-20T22:32:00.000-04:00

The other day I received the most beautiful yarn. It is spun & dyed by Claudia Holl-Wellmann. My picture (above) does not do the yarn justice. You really should take a look at Claudia's website just for the pleasure of looking at her yarns.

I purchased her super wash wool in Rittersporn (larkspur); Rosenrot (rose's red); Brombeere (blackberry). I can hardly wait to start a project with these stunning wools. You are sure to see them in upcoming posts.
Claudia's logo

things to come

2007-04-19T22:52:00.000-04:00

I have lots to post, but have very little time. So I will leave this little fellow with you for now. Sweet dreams!

on a snowy day

2007-04-16T20:06:00.000-04:00

The Easy Granny Quilt Afghan is done. The finished size is 37" x 54.5". It was supposed to be 39" x 59".

I did do a mini kill of the acrylic (see blocking acrylic). I used an ironing board, an plant spray bottle filled with tap water, an iron set on medium high, a cotton ironing cloth. The completed afghan was bumpy and had curled edges. Here is what I did:

Preset the iron temperature to medium high without steam;
I soaked the cotton cloth and then wrung it out;
Measured the width I wanted the afghan to be on the ironing board;
Started at a narrow side of the afghan and sprayed it damp with water. I did not soak it;
Stretched the afghan to the desired shape;
Covered a section of the afghan with the pressing cloth and gently pressed until the cloth was almost dry;
The rest of the afghan was done in the same manner until completed;
I found that I did not have to press for as long as I did at the start (this may be different if you are using acrylic to make a lace project);
The end result is more well behaved, but a little less lofty;
It can be machine washed & dried and this process does not need to be repeated.

I am still working on the pillow covering. I will post a picture of it once it is completed.

I have a little of the completed project blues. It's done. I am quite happy with the finished product. But now I don't have any granny squares to work on. I have to let go of the perfect dream of the imagined finished afghan. Don't get me wrong, I am happy, but I do have a wee bittersweet feeling underneath it all after deciding it's done.

sunday funnies

2007-04-16T00:12:00.000-04:00

Over time I am going to post some pictures of my previous projects. Today is the first of this series. This Sailor Sleeping Bag is from Pingouin No. 103, page 8. I started this project for my nephew in 1989, and finished it in 2006! Needless to say, he never got a chance to wear the thing. I got stuck when I had to join the pieces. I learned to knit using a book, and it took me a long time to figure out what was meant by a mattress stitch. Not knowing how to proceed, I took a hiatus from my knitting for many years.

The actual pattern instructed me to close the bottom, and although I do not have any children, I didn't think that this would be a very good idea. As you can see, I fashioned a way to put snaps on the bottom. The buttons were a challenge to find - I finally found ones I was happy with on eBay. When I finished the project I noticed that I had made a miscalculation on the stripe pattern (see the shoulder picture). Well, after all of that work I am leaving it as it is. It gives the garment character, right? Now, I just have to find a suitable baby who would benefit from such a gift!

The Easy Granny Quilt Afghan is sewn together and the border completed. Tomorrow I will block it using the method described below. To finish off all of this acrylic yarn I am making a garter stitch throw cushion.

Help anyone?
I am practicing my continental knitting method daily. While my movements are getting more fluid, I am having a lot of trouble with yarn tension. I would love to read any of your comments on improving my yarn tension using this method. To get the same tension, do you need to use a smaller sized needle for the Continental method compared to the English Method?

slow going

2007-04-14T19:31:00.000-04:00

I don't think I will be killing any acrylic this weekend. I am still under the weather. We think it is pertussis, or also known as the 100 day cough (lovely). True, I have been vaccinated against this bacteria, but in adulthood one's immunity can wain, and there you are, whooping away. Enough said about this. It's just that my hopes for finishing the Easy Granny Quilt Afghan this weekend will not be fulfilled. I am still at the joining phase, and can only do it in small bursts.

Initial Post: long overdue

Related Post(s): squares are done, memories of colour

I stopped off at Jane's Yarnstorm again today and left a short note. So if you're coming by to check out pictures of my Red Rose Tea box, here here they are.

Happy tea time!

practice - 1

2007-04-13T19:48:00.000-04:00

I did it! I finally got it and did a Twisted German Long Tail Cast On. It actually flowed, with a little practice. It made me smile.

I also have been practicing my German / Continental style knitting. Now this is challenging! After feeling fairly competent, knitting almost any where, fixing problems with relative ease, this new way of doing things feels uncomfortable. Still, I am committed to learning how do this. I just have to feel okay about being so clumsy again. Above is the picture of my progress - a little garter stitch.

"aw how cute, some baby steps"

The tension is all over the place. It reminds me of when I was 8 years old and trying to learn how to knit from a book. I used this horrid unspun plastic Phentex yarn (slipper & craft yarn?). My stitches were so tight. The yarn kept squeaking. And the result was atrocious. But I learned, and I will learn this too. Perhaps next week I will venture on to purling :o)

Today was a gray rainy day and too chilly to be considered spring. Fortunately my Phalaenopsis orchid is still in bloom & budding. I love the contrast between the vibrant flowers and the gray scene outside my window. Enjoy.

Here are a few more pics...

guessing game

2007-04-12T04:52:00.000-04:00

Amigurumi
(as I understand it, amigurumi, translated from Japanese, means knitted or crocheted doll)

Ta da! Here we have a blue crocheted ball. It was going to be a Crochet Cat (Amineko)* designed by Nekoyama. However, I won't have enough of this left over yarn to complete the cat. So I am pondering other options for this future amigurumi. Or perhaps it will remain a large and oddly shaped hacky sack. I'll keep you posted.

You can see more pictures of amigurumi books at Clementine's Shoes Photos.

*Nekoyama's website contains this pattern in English as well as Japanese.

killing acrylic

2007-04-11T05:46:00.000-04:00

Have you ever heard of blocking acrylic? I was under the impression that it was unblockable until I found this post.

Here Donna Druchunas, author of Arctic Lace, discusses killing acrylic. Now I know some of you would never dream of using such a -shall we use the f word - fiber. But for those of us who appreciate the value of being able to wash and dry a project without worry and who don't want to break the bank, here is what she says:

Blocking Acrylic

You need: Blocking wires and/or rust proof pins, a cotton dish towel or a piece of cotton fabric, and an iron.

Here's [Pat Stevens'] technique for "killing" acrylic yarn to give it a gorgeous drape.

Wet your knitting, spin it out in a washer. Lay a sheet on the carpet. Pin the piece exactly the size you want. (I stretch my lace shoulder warmers pretty hard.) Lay a wet cotton dish towel or piece of fabric over it. With a hot iron press down all over the thing. Don't iron just press. I press until the top cloth is very dry. Then I leave it overnight to finish drying. It's that easy. I really press it a lot, it's the steam heat that makes the acrylic look and drape like rayon. You may want to knit a large swatch and test it out.

Edited to add this note in response to a question a reader sent me in email: Acrylic yarn gets "killed" by the application of the heat and it will remain dead after future washings and retain its new shape. You should only have to do this treatment once, as far as I can tell, whereas you normally have to reblock lace knitted in wool or other natural fibers after each washing.

Here's another tip that just arrived in my email from Renee Wells*: This can also be done dry. Sometimes I place the item on a towel with a wet cloth above. Press and then gently stretch the item into the new shape. You can pick up the cloth between wettings and see where more pressing is needed to even it out. The advantage to this method is greater stretch. You must be careful not to let the item hang over the ironing board it you are trying it there. The weight will skew the shape. I often kill acrylic baby blankets, they morph into lovely exotic feeling fibers! No longer just acrylic! And the mums that receive them use them over and over because they do hold their new drape.
*Renee teaches some great classes on Japanese knitting.

So, this weekend I am going to try this method with my Easy Granny Quilt Afghan. I'll keep you posted.

Note: In her post Donna also outlines how to block natural fibers. I haven't done much of this. She assures us that it is easy.

colour seduction

2007-04-10T05:31:00.000-04:00

I have been unwell for the past few days; miserable, but not deathly ill. I wake up in the wee hours of the a.m. and cannot fall back to sleep. What to do? Surf! And look at what I found...

(click on the pictures below to go on your own mini surf)

These colours are so exciting. Don't they remind you of Gustav Klimt's art?

You must check out Jane's pictures from her trip to Paris. They can be found here at colours of paris.

As if I needed more inspiration; but what fun! Ah, so many projects, so little time!

one step forward

2007-04-07T11:09:00.000-04:00

A boy's own jacket
The ShineSport (in River & Sky) arrived on Thursday from Knitpicks. It feels wonderful. I knit up a swatch using 4 mm (instead of 5 mm as indicated for Rowan's Calmer) and the tension matched! The problem is that I think the swatch is too limp for a jacket. So I broke down and purchased the required amount of Calmer in Slosh & Calmer colours! So now what to do with the ShineSport? Since the Knitpicks yarn is fairly inexpensive I don't think it is worth while to return the yarn. I don't like the idea of paying shipping twice and having nothing to show for it! The swatch made me think, this would make a luscious camisole. So I am considering Interweave Knits Lace Nightie (Spring 2007) or a version of Erika Knight's cotton camisole (Classic Knits, p. 83). Still, the colours River and Sky are not what I would have chosen if I had planned to make these projects. Perhaps I will exchange these balls for something else. I hope the Calmer arrives soon - I don't want to cut it too close to the wee one's birthday!

Initial Post: baby boy blue

Easy Granny Quilt Afghan
I have tried both a chain stitch and an invisible stitch to join the squares. I really prefer the invisible stitch - it looks more classic. The chain stitch created a more rustic look. Some may have liked it, but it's not for me. I am about 1/4 through piecing it together. So far I am quite happy with the the result. Pictures will follow.

Initial Post: long overdue
Related Post(s): squares are done , memories of colour

Hunter V-neck Sweater
I am about 2/3 done the back. That's a lot of stocking stitch, for sure. But I don't mind, I find it soothing at the end of the day.

Intial Post: something my love will wear

learning

2007-04-07T06:57:00.000-04:00

Twisted German Long Tail Cast On

This is the German Twisted Cast On that sandeleh has been raving about for socks. It makes a VERY elastic edge that does not look at all sloppy. She has used 2 colors of yarn in these photos to make the steps easier to follow.

Knit Tip - Twisted German CastOn from sandeleh on webshots.com

Set up step is the same as the 'regular' long tail cast on. Pink strand goes to free end, blue strand to the ball.
Put needle under both loops of the pink yarn, pointing towards the index finger.
Another shot of the first step.
Now come backwards into the pink loop with the needle pointed towards you.
Shove your thumb towards the index finger, twisting the loop with the needle thru it open so you can scoop the blue yarn back thru the pink loop.
Scooping the blue yarn back thru the twisted loop (that you have opened by bending the thumb)
Another shot of grabbing the blue yarn
The actual scoop of the blue yarn thru the pink loop
Scooping the blue yarn thru the pink loop
Dropping the pink loop off the thumb. Then you snug the yarns up against the needle, just like in the other long tail cast on..
You can see the neat double twist of the pink yarn under the needle. The blue loops on the needle will be twisted or not, depending on which way you picked up the blue yarn. If they are wrong, merely knit that first row thru the back loop. Leave them twisted for a snugger edge.

memories of colour

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

It's strange how I recall colours. As I have been working on the Easy Granny Quilt Afghan I keep thinking of blue bottle flies. Their colour amazes.

Photo Credit: Vicky Adams, 2005

Initial Post: long overdue
Related Post(s): squares are done, slow going

squares are done

2007-04-05T07:12:00.000-04:00

I have completed the squares for my Easy Granny Quilt Afghan. It sure feels good! The excitement of nearing completion woke me up 2 hours before my alarm. Now I have to figure out how I am going to connect them together. I have been thinking of a chain stitch that would be visible from both sides. My preference is usually to have an invisible stitch. I'll try them both and then make my decision.

The colour is off in the above pictures - especially the blue. It is more muted and is blue, purple, with a slight hint of green. It reminds me of the colour of blue bottle flies. (I hope this doesn't offend your sensibilities too much - but I have spent many a hot summer afternoon admiring the colour(s) of blue bottle flies. In principle I am not so fond of flies, but when hanging out on my grandmother's farm I accepted them as inescapable.)

Initial Post: long overdue
Related Post(s): memories of colour, slow going

sales, sales, sales!

2007-04-03T09:19:00.000-04:00

How dangerous it is to read of yarn sales! Often it is more than I can do to resist...

I thought I would torture the rest of you with some of my finds. Can you resist?

Have you checked out Yarn by the Bag? They always have some inventory clearance of yarns (by the bag) for $10 - 15! I was lucky enough to purchase some Dream Yarn by Marks & Kattens (Swedish) and Cotton BIG Sport Yarn by Idena (Swedish). The store is located in Victoria, BC. Lucky Canadians; the prices listed in US dollars are at PAR for our dollar. Shipping is free if you purchase $100+ of their regularly priced items! Their customer service is very friendly and responsive.
Jimmy Bean's Wool has some Rowan Cashsoft ($6.36) and Rowan Plaid ($10.17) on sale. I found the customer service representative so helpful. I wasn't sure about a colour; she went, got a sample, phoned me back and gave me an accurate description of the yarn! What service!
Little Knits has some tremendous sales on now. They have this luxurious Peru Luxury DK yarn composed of 70% Merino, 20% Alpaca and 10% Silk. It looks like it will have terrific stitch definition and be very soft next to the skin. A bag of 10 skeins is 57% off! (I blame Gabriella of g.bella knits for posting the link to this site.)
Now for those of you who are eBay addicted I would suggest you stay away from The Cucumber Patch UK eStore. (I should stay away too!) She has some amazing sales on now. Rowan Plaid is available for $7.51 Canadian. And shipping is free! I also found an amazing deal on bamboo DPNs. "skyridersince2005" sells all types of bamboo knitting needles and crochet hooks.
And I accuse My Merino Mantra of posting triggering photos. Who wouldn't what to knit up an her Entrelac Lady Eleanor Stole? And then, right under this post she had to post about Rowan Tapestry yarn. Now I am obsessed with getting my own stash! (Gorgeous photos, by the way).

Ah, such delicious desire for these dreamy fibers! And the wonderful ache of anticipation for the mail carrier to deliver me.

fun on a rainy afternoon

2007-03-29T19:12:00.000-04:00

Yarn: Rondo, Sandnes Garn
Colour: 173, Looks like Eggplant
Content: 70% Acrylic, 30% Wool
Amount: 74 m / 100 gm (10 balls)
Needles: 9 mm (US 13)
Tension: 9 sts = 10 cm (4”)
Care: Machine wash at low temp, lay flat to dry
Plan: Any thoughts?

Yarn: Kroy (Patons), Preface (Phildar), Watercolours (Estelle)
Colours: Kroy 54002 (2), 54006 (2), 54008 (2), 54012 (2); Preface 036 (2), 043 (2); Watercolours 21 (1), 81 (1)
Care: Machine Wash, Dry at low heat
Plan: Socks?

Yarn: Denim Style, Bernat
Colour: 3117 Stonewash
Content: 70% Acrylic, 30% Cotton
Amount: 179 m / 100 gm (9 +)
Needles: 5 mm (US 8)
Tension: 18 sts / 24 rows = 10 cm (4”)
Care: Machine wash & dry
Plan: Perhaps Jolene Treace's River Forest Gansey

Yarn: LuLu (12) & Satin (1), Bernat
Colour: 36005 Snowball (1), 36320 Loopy Lilac (3), 36510 Peachy Keen (2), 36509 Fancy Dandy (2), 36717 Lemon Lime (2), 36128 Bunny Blue (2)
Content: 100% Nylon
Care: Machine wash & Dry
Plan: Makes lovely soft baby blankets

Yarn: Gramercy, Lily Chin & Zara, Filatura Di Crosa
Colour: LC 5001 (1), LC 7543 (2), FDC 1389 (2), FDC 1401 (1)
Content: 100% Wool
Care: Hand wash, dry flat
Plan: A variation of Anne Featonby's Chullo Hat - Crosscountry

Yarn: Mohair Art, Jaeger
Colour: 608, Inkwell
Content: 50% Mohair, 50% Nylon
Amount: 150 m / 50 gm (1)
Needles: 4mm/8UK/6US
Tension: 21-23 sts / 28-31 rows = 10 cm (4”)
Care: Machine wash
Plan: What to do with a single ball?

Yarn: Van Dyck, Needful Yarns
Colour: 114, Looks medium grey-blue
Content: 46% wool, 39% acrylic, 15% alpaca
Amount: 117 yds / 100 gm (1 balls)
Needles: 7-8 mm (US 10-11)
Tension: 11 sts = 10 cm (4”)
Care: Hand wash, dry flat
Plan: What to do with a single ball?

Yarn: Shetland Chunky, Patons
Colour: 03031, Earthy Brown (1), 03032 Canyon Variegated (1)
Content: 75% Acrylic, 25% Wool
Amount: 136 m / 100 gm
Needles: 9 mm (US 13)
Tension: 15 sts / 20 rows = 4" (10 cm)Care: Machine washable, dry flat
Plan: I was planning on making another Pick-Up Diamond Helmet (Gerdine Strong, in Knitter's Magazine, Winter 2004, page 46) But I haven't been too happy with the sizing.

Yarn: Handcrafter Cotton, Bernat
Colour: 00022, Demins
Content: 100% Cotton
Amount: 655 m / 400 gm (1.5 balls)
Needles: 4.50 mm, (US 7)
Tension: 20 sts / 26 rows = 4" (10 cm)
Care: Machine washable, dry at low temperature
Plan: More cotton bath mitts?

It was a rainy afternoon, so I organized my stash. I don't really have clear plans for these yarns. Your thoughts are welcome. I'll keep you posted. That was fun.

thank you canada post

2007-03-28T22:25:00.000-04:00

The sweaters arrived! And don't the brothers look smart wearing these Cowichan type sweaters! The youngest was very happy to get the sweater & hat. The older brother thinks the sweater is okay. At nearly 7 years of age clothes don't make a very exciting gift. It's a good thing I included chocolate!

Initial Post: tag-a-long

learning new tricks

2007-03-27T07:45:00.000-04:00

I want to learn German style knitting (a.k.a., Continental) and I've done a little searching and a little practicing.

The best resource I have found is from the blog http://www.craftsanity.com/ with Jennifer Ackerman-Haywood.

She has a video of German style knitting on this page. This same video is also found on YouTube. See it below.
The one problem with this video is that it misrepresents English style knitting; it too can be fairly efficient. When I knit, my right hand does not leave the needle to "throw" the yarn. Anyway, the video is good for what it does do, i.e., show German knitting well.

I'll keep you posted on my progress.

it can be done

2007-03-26T16:11:00.000-04:00

A reversible cable scarf! One side (above), Other side (below)

The pattern is very easy and can be adjusted for different yarn types, tensions, etc.

Here I am using Luxury Alpaca Peru in 201 Ecru (on sale at my local yarn shop). I love this yarn! It is wonderful to work with and is so soft!

The pattern is a 10 row repeat (cable height is 10 rows)
Row 1 K6, P6 (will make two cable columns)
Row 2 P6, K6
Repeat row 1 and 2 again
Row 5 Slip 3 onto cable needle, K3, K3 from cable needle, P6
Row 6 P6, K6
Row 7 K6, P6
Repeat row 6 and 7 again.
Row 10 P6, Slip 3 onto cable needle, K3, K3 from cable needle
Repeat for desired length.

You can alter the pattern by:

Changing the cable height (Rows = 2 x R, Here R = 5)
Changing the cable width (Stitches = 2 x S, Here S = 3)
Changing the width of the project (the above pattern only has two cable columns)

Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 3.0 License

My project is 78 stitches wide. The selvage is made with 3 knit stitches to form a garter stitch edge. The scarf has 12 cable columns with 6 cables across on each side of the garment. It is a lot of fun to knit!

Addendum: I found a note on Esther S. Bozak's website that Lily Chin explains how to do reversible cables in the Winter 1989 issue of Knitter's. Wouldn't it be lovely to have a copy of this article.

You may be interested in Julie Theaker's pattern for her WATERY LLAMA SCARF (a reversible ribbed cable scarf) here. Thanks for sharing Julie!

long overdue

2007-03-26T15:44:00.000-04:00

I am working on an afghan for my brother and sister-in-law. I had started working on an afghan before their marriage (it was to be a wedding present) but only got 1/4 completed before I saw that my tension had changed as I had progressed. The beautiful jewel tone afghan was lopsided. I gave up. In my non-craft period I gave away all of the beautiful yarn (wool mohair blend) along with the lopsided "throw."

They have been together for 2 decades and I thought I would finally make them an afghan. This one is not as ambitious as my first attempt. It crocheted in squares so it is very easy to take with me. The pattern is very basic - Easy Granny Quilt Afghan. The squares are 19 cm, and oriented on the diagonal. The finished squares are very soft and rich looking - I think this will turn out well.

Pattern: Easy Granny Quilt Afghan. Page 11

Book: Homespun 6 Crocheted Quilt Afghans, by Lion Brand

ISBN: 023032799025

The yarn is Homespun a Bouclé by Lion Brand (not my favourite to work with, too squeaky)

Amount: 169 m /170 gm balls

Content: 98% acrylic, 2% polyester

Care: Machine wash and dry; do not bleach or iron

Status:

Colour A (373 Ebony) - 8/8 Squares, 6/6 Half Squares, 4 /4 Corners

Colour B (312 Edwardian) - 1/6 Squares, 4/4 Half Squares

Colour C (320 Regency) - 2/8 Squares

Colour D (302 Colonial) - 1/17 Squares, 6/6 Half Squares

Follow-up post(s): squares are done, memories of colour, slow going

saving energy

2007-03-26T15:35:00.000-04:00

Something I will wear as we save energy by turning our thermostat down.

Pattern: Autumn Afternoons Cardigan, Lion Brand

Yarn: San Bernardino, Needful Yarns
Color: 4011 (Beige,Gray,Cream)
Content: 60% Wool, 40% Acrylic
Care: Hand wash, dry flat

I am absolutely in love with this yarn. It is so soft, easy to work with and I love these natural colours of the 4011.

CO - Back completed, Right front almost done.

something my love will wear

2007-03-25T23:52:00.000-04:00

Hunter V-neck Sweater

I have already made this sweater in Linen Drape (discontinued, I got my stash from Yarn Xpress) but the result was not roomy enough and too short. Interestingly, the colour above and below are the same! Splash! And, my picture is not turquoise enough either! The stripe is in Linen Drape Sand. In the front the stripe is too close to the v-neck and therefore is not straight. Next time I put a stripe in a v-neck sweater I will know better.

I am currently working this sweater in Cotton Classic by Tahki Royal Blue 3870. The back is just underway.

Related Post(s): one step forward

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