Yarn: Alpaca with a Twist laceweight in Black
Needle:
* Top Swatch: Addi Turbo US 2
* Bottom Swatch: Clover Bamboo in US 4
I like the look of the top swatch the best, but the thought of knitting this entire stole with dull tipped, slipper Addi in a US 2 makes my head start to hurt.
I'd like to see the swatch on Clover US 3, but unfortunately, those needles still have (ugh) Mystery Stole 2 on them. (laugh). I am however now almost 1/2 way through the first 1/2 of Clue 4 on THAT project. (hum...I think I *might* have a small pair of Clover Bamboo circulars in a US 3.....I'll need to dig around in the knitting bag)
Each swatch does have two beads added in so that I could see how that process worked -- and let me tell you that not having the itty bitty crochet hook makes it a pain in the ass. I had to resort to using mint flavored dental tape. It does make the swatches smell good!
Sunday, July 01, 2007
Saturday, June 30, 2007
5 Hour Baby Sweater #2
I recently got a part time job and I am replacing a girl who is having her first baby. She has been wonderful training me and this is my baby shower gift to her.
Sunday, June 24, 2007
Cutting it really close...
This small ball of yarn (next to wine cork for reference) is what was left of my second skein when I finished up my Lutea Lace Shouldered Shell.
I tried to get a photo of myself wearing the tank, but it's nearly impossible to take a decent photo of yourself - and more so when I historically look stupid in posed photos.
I tried to get a photo of myself wearing the tank, but it's nearly impossible to take a decent photo of yourself - and more so when I historically look stupid in posed photos.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Lutea Shell - Second Go Round
Well, here's what the project looks like this morning! I reballed all the yarn from the previous version last night and recast on with the smaller size!
Since I've already made this same project once this week, I'm thinking this will go quickly! However, I am also working more hours this week and have a Pampered Chef commitment on Saturday. My goal is to get this done in the next 7 days.
OH! And I got my Ravelry invite yesterday!! Yippeee!! Look for me under "PixieM"
Since I've already made this same project once this week, I'm thinking this will go quickly! However, I am also working more hours this week and have a Pampered Chef commitment on Saturday. My goal is to get this done in the next 7 days.
OH! And I got my Ravelry invite yesterday!! Yippeee!! Look for me under "PixieM"
Sunday, June 17, 2007
Lutea Lace Shouldered Shell
The back is completed, so I thought I would share a photo before I ripped it all out. Yes, I'm ripping it out to start over.
I really should have pulled it on before I got this far....I have a warped sense of my size. I was between sizes so I chose the larger size and should have gone with my gut instinct and chosen the smaller one. It just feels too baggy and would look better more form fitting.
On the upside I am now really familiar with the pattern, have figured out the errors in the lace pattern plus I knitted what I have here fairly quick. I also don't like the curled edge at the bottom and am going to experiment with a turned under hem instead? Or maybe a garter stitch edge?
I really should have pulled it on before I got this far....I have a warped sense of my size. I was between sizes so I chose the larger size and should have gone with my gut instinct and chosen the smaller one. It just feels too baggy and would look better more form fitting.
On the upside I am now really familiar with the pattern, have figured out the errors in the lace pattern plus I knitted what I have here fairly quick. I also don't like the curled edge at the bottom and am going to experiment with a turned under hem instead? Or maybe a garter stitch edge?
Estes Park and Lutea Shell Progress
Went up to the Estes Park Wool Fest early yesterday morning and had a grand time. Can you believe all I bought was a Wet Felting Kit for $15.00? Well, I did also stop in at a friend's jewelry store in Estes and brought home a gorgeous Larimar ring with the money I didn't spend on yarn. The highlight of my day was scratching a yak on the nose and having him snuffle in my palm.
On Friday night I finished up the body of the Lutea shell! Woot! I set it aside to start the lace straps and luckily found the errata BEFORE I started. However, what I didn't find is that that errata was missing a key phrase from the designer...causing me much frustration last night that left me almost in tears and hitting the whiskey at 11:30 AM this morning.
And where does one turn in times like this? Googling for other knitting blogs, of course. I want to publicly thank Jeanne of Jeanne Knits, for emailing me back and indulging in my ramblings as I sorted out this pattern in my head even though I'm a complete stranger. I love knitters.
Hit the Farmer's Market this morning and got some new plants for the garden -- green sage, greek basil and rosemary. Also got some homemade dried Thai linguine that is destined for a peanut sauce with shrimp, 4 large cinnamon buns, 2 vanilla lattes and 2 breakfast burritos -- oh! and some blackberry creamed honey from the bee lady. A very good haul this morning. I was bummed that this season we haven't see the guy selling fresh sockeye salmon. I've got some red chard in the fridge that I would like to serve with salmon tonight, so I'll have to head to the grocery this afternoon.
Now that I have the Lutea lace pattern sorted, I'm off to knock out the right-back shoulder strap!
On Friday night I finished up the body of the Lutea shell! Woot! I set it aside to start the lace straps and luckily found the errata BEFORE I started. However, what I didn't find is that that errata was missing a key phrase from the designer...causing me much frustration last night that left me almost in tears and hitting the whiskey at 11:30 AM this morning.
And where does one turn in times like this? Googling for other knitting blogs, of course. I want to publicly thank Jeanne of Jeanne Knits, for emailing me back and indulging in my ramblings as I sorted out this pattern in my head even though I'm a complete stranger. I love knitters.
Hit the Farmer's Market this morning and got some new plants for the garden -- green sage, greek basil and rosemary. Also got some homemade dried Thai linguine that is destined for a peanut sauce with shrimp, 4 large cinnamon buns, 2 vanilla lattes and 2 breakfast burritos -- oh! and some blackberry creamed honey from the bee lady. A very good haul this morning. I was bummed that this season we haven't see the guy selling fresh sockeye salmon. I've got some red chard in the fridge that I would like to serve with salmon tonight, so I'll have to head to the grocery this afternoon.
Now that I have the Lutea lace pattern sorted, I'm off to knock out the right-back shoulder strap!
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
5 Hour Baby Sweater
I finished this the other week but had forgotten to get a photo of it and then left it hanging in the shop as a temporary store sample.
I started this on a Friday night and was seaming it up on Sunday afternoon. Yes, it probably did only take me about 5 hours. As soon as I finish up the matching cap and/or booties it will be wrapped up and sent off to the recipient.
I started this on a Friday night and was seaming it up on Sunday afternoon. Yes, it probably did only take me about 5 hours. As soon as I finish up the matching cap and/or booties it will be wrapped up and sent off to the recipient.
Monday, June 11, 2007
SP10 Package Arrived
I love when the mailbox has a package in it -- and it's the best when it's a Secret Pal box!
This one contained 3 gorgeous skeins of baby alpaca yarn, a lovely ceramic bowl that is going to become my new kitchen salt cellar that sits out on the counter, 1 fun glass fridge magnet and two delicious smelling bars of soap.
Thanks to my Secret Pal!! I hope I get to see you at the Estes Park Wool Fest, check your email for my mobile number so that we can connect!
This one contained 3 gorgeous skeins of baby alpaca yarn, a lovely ceramic bowl that is going to become my new kitchen salt cellar that sits out on the counter, 1 fun glass fridge magnet and two delicious smelling bars of soap.
Thanks to my Secret Pal!! I hope I get to see you at the Estes Park Wool Fest, check your email for my mobile number so that we can connect!
My Boxer Girl
I was cleaning up photos on the digital camera and found this one of Allie; so I thought I would share.
Allie does not knit and could care less about knitting or yarn. Because of this she is not accompanying us to the Estes Park Wool Festival this weekend. She may however attend the Denver Knitting Guild Meeting this week because she DOES like to socialize.
If you don't know about Allie, she's my 6 year rescue boxer who came to us at 7 months old and had already been in 4 or 5 homes before being given up to Ho-Bo Care Boxer Rescue. By the time she got to our house she was people and dog aggressive due to the bouncing around from home to home at such a young age.
We fostered her for about a month, got her into an adoptable frame of mind and she was placed with a very nice family. Once in her new home, she copped an attitude, beat up the other boxer in the house and in general was a complete pain in the ass for couple of weeks that she stayed with that family. She was brought back to our house where she is now in charge of making sure the cushions are held down firmly on the couch for at least 5 hours a day. [Note: The family who brought Allie back to us was extremely nice and a different boxer was adopted by them when Allie was returned to us. They tried very hard to fit Allie in with their family, but apparently she was just meant to be with us.
Allie has been with us for the last 5+ years and has become a wonderful dog. She has passed her AKC CGC certification and is working on the responsibilities of being a therapy dog.
Allie does not knit and could care less about knitting or yarn. Because of this she is not accompanying us to the Estes Park Wool Festival this weekend. She may however attend the Denver Knitting Guild Meeting this week because she DOES like to socialize.
If you don't know about Allie, she's my 6 year rescue boxer who came to us at 7 months old and had already been in 4 or 5 homes before being given up to Ho-Bo Care Boxer Rescue. By the time she got to our house she was people and dog aggressive due to the bouncing around from home to home at such a young age.
We fostered her for about a month, got her into an adoptable frame of mind and she was placed with a very nice family. Once in her new home, she copped an attitude, beat up the other boxer in the house and in general was a complete pain in the ass for couple of weeks that she stayed with that family. She was brought back to our house where she is now in charge of making sure the cushions are held down firmly on the couch for at least 5 hours a day. [Note: The family who brought Allie back to us was extremely nice and a different boxer was adopted by them when Allie was returned to us. They tried very hard to fit Allie in with their family, but apparently she was just meant to be with us.
Allie has been with us for the last 5+ years and has become a wonderful dog. She has passed her AKC CGC certification and is working on the responsibilities of being a therapy dog.
Sunday, June 10, 2007
New Projects in the Works
Yesterday I cast on for the "Lutea Lace Shoulder Shell" in the Summer 2007 Interview Knits. I'm using Brown Sheep Cotton Fleece in 'Praire Lupine'. Two other women at the shop cast on for the same project yesterday, I can't wait to see how they all turn out!
Speaking of yesterday, I took my pop-up canopy to the shop to set up outside on the patio for WWKIP day and it was a blast. We had salad, brownies, hot dogs, strawberries and beer. We even got a little knitting done.
I also picked up one skein of Alpaca with a Twist Fino in black for Mystery Stole 3. I know, I know, I'm still working on two.....
On the agenda for this afternoon is sitting in the sun room knocking out slipper #2 so that I can felt Dirk's felted clogs.
Speaking of yesterday, I took my pop-up canopy to the shop to set up outside on the patio for WWKIP day and it was a blast. We had salad, brownies, hot dogs, strawberries and beer. We even got a little knitting done.
I also picked up one skein of Alpaca with a Twist Fino in black for Mystery Stole 3. I know, I know, I'm still working on two.....
On the agenda for this afternoon is sitting in the sun room knocking out slipper #2 so that I can felt Dirk's felted clogs.
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Finished: Bamboozle Tank Top
Yarn: 5.5 balls of Bamboozle by Crystal Palace
Needles: US 9 & 7 Denise Interchangables
Pattern: Free from the Crystal Palace site
However instead of knitting in two separate pieces, I knit in the round until I go to the armhole shaping, then knitted each side separately.
Pattern was easy, well written and I love the yarn. I will make this pattern again, but next time I will resist the urge to be finished and make the straps about 2" longer. The tank fits fine, I'd just like a little more ease in the armholes.
Needles: US 9 & 7 Denise Interchangables
Pattern: Free from the Crystal Palace site
However instead of knitting in two separate pieces, I knit in the round until I go to the armhole shaping, then knitted each side separately.
Pattern was easy, well written and I love the yarn. I will make this pattern again, but next time I will resist the urge to be finished and make the straps about 2" longer. The tank fits fine, I'd just like a little more ease in the armholes.
Monday, June 04, 2007
I've been tagged...
Ok, we all know how this goes....Each person tagged gives 7 random facts about themselves.
Those who are tagged need to write on their own blog those 7 facts as well as the rules of the game. You need to tag seven others and list their names on your blog. You have to leave those you plan on tagging a note in their comments so they know that they have been tagged and to read your blog.
Except I'll cheat and not tag anyone else...
1) I learned how to drive in a open wheeled formula car (specifically a Lotus 51, an example of which is pictured at the right) and was eligible for an IMSA (International Motor Sports Association) racing license in my very early twenties.
2) Though I very much enjoy fast cars, I have never been on and never plan to be on a motorcycle. They terrify me.
3) I own more shoes and purses than reasonable. I have purses in my closet that I have had since the mid-80's.
4) I type without looking at the keys, which is handy because most of the keys on my laptop have worn off.
5) I feel completely "off" if I am not wearing my watch.
6) I am allergic to various fruits, but I can smell an unpeeled banana and know whether it will cause an allergic reaction or not.
7) I was a "Dead Head" for a number of years following the Grateful Dead around the country.
Those who are tagged need to write on their own blog those 7 facts as well as the rules of the game. You need to tag seven others and list their names on your blog. You have to leave those you plan on tagging a note in their comments so they know that they have been tagged and to read your blog.
Except I'll cheat and not tag anyone else...
1) I learned how to drive in a open wheeled formula car (specifically a Lotus 51, an example of which is pictured at the right) and was eligible for an IMSA (International Motor Sports Association) racing license in my very early twenties.
2) Though I very much enjoy fast cars, I have never been on and never plan to be on a motorcycle. They terrify me.
3) I own more shoes and purses than reasonable. I have purses in my closet that I have had since the mid-80's.
4) I type without looking at the keys, which is handy because most of the keys on my laptop have worn off.
5) I feel completely "off" if I am not wearing my watch.
6) I am allergic to various fruits, but I can smell an unpeeled banana and know whether it will cause an allergic reaction or not.
7) I was a "Dead Head" for a number of years following the Grateful Dead around the country.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Bamboozle Tank Top
I'm seriously starting to worry that I don't have enough yarn as I'm getting ready to switch from in the round to the back and forth bit at the top to make the arm decreases. I'm also starting to wonder if it was wise to think that I was smarter than the pattern by knitting it in the round instead of following the directions.
What's the worst that will happen? I'll run out of yarn and the pattern will laugh at me. And then I will rip the tank top out, pick out a new pattern while laughing back at the original pattern.
Have an urge to start a new lace project even though I have one in a project bag that really needs to get completed and a pair of felted clogs that I promised my husband I would make for him.
What's the worst that will happen? I'll run out of yarn and the pattern will laugh at me. And then I will rip the tank top out, pick out a new pattern while laughing back at the original pattern.
Have an urge to start a new lace project even though I have one in a project bag that really needs to get completed and a pair of felted clogs that I promised my husband I would make for him.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Socketta Socks
Finished my second pair of socks for the month! I *really* liked this yarn, it's got a great feel, lots of stretch and I hope it wears really well.
Size: Women's Small
Needle size used: US 1 Addi Turbo
Yarn: Socketta Cotton Blend Socj Yarn
Method: Toe-Up, Magic Loop, Two at Once
Who the socks are for: ME!
Date finished: Sunday, May 28, 2007
Size: Women's Small
Needle size used: US 1 Addi Turbo
Yarn: Socketta Cotton Blend Socj Yarn
Method: Toe-Up, Magic Loop, Two at Once
Who the socks are for: ME!
Date finished: Sunday, May 28, 2007
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Playing with Alpacas Again...
Oh my gods, I can't believe I haven't posted yet about the excitement of this past weekend -- we went to a friend's alpaca farm to watch the shearing! It got even more exciting when Dirk was asked to help wrangle the alpacas down to the barn floor -- the big males can be really ornery and can spit pretty nasty stuff. Anyway, it was very cool to see the process.
I just started a new project! What? Of course it's a pair of socks. I *love* the Socketta cotton blend yarn and requested that it be stocked at YarnArts. Photos to come later today. I'm still working away on the Bamboozle tank top, another yarn I LOVE. It drapes very nicely, works up evenly and the stockinette edge isn't rolling! I also need to share a photo of the lace wrap made with Ironstone Yarns "Pizzaz". It's a gorgeous novelty blend yarn that has been enticing me at the shop for the last two years, but at $37/skein I needed to find a good one skein project for it.
My father-in-law got his socks and they fit perfectly (whew). I was so scared about making socks without being able to measure the recipient's foot first, but all was well in the end.
I'm gathering together the items for my final Secret Pal 10 swap package. I can now see why people can get addicted to these swaps -- I love to give gifts and coming up with different fun stuff to include in them!
Well, I have a meeting in about 30 minutes, so I'm off for a fun and exciting day!
I just started a new project! What? Of course it's a pair of socks. I *love* the Socketta cotton blend yarn and requested that it be stocked at YarnArts. Photos to come later today. I'm still working away on the Bamboozle tank top, another yarn I LOVE. It drapes very nicely, works up evenly and the stockinette edge isn't rolling! I also need to share a photo of the lace wrap made with Ironstone Yarns "Pizzaz". It's a gorgeous novelty blend yarn that has been enticing me at the shop for the last two years, but at $37/skein I needed to find a good one skein project for it.
My father-in-law got his socks and they fit perfectly (whew). I was so scared about making socks without being able to measure the recipient's foot first, but all was well in the end.
I'm gathering together the items for my final Secret Pal 10 swap package. I can now see why people can get addicted to these swaps -- I love to give gifts and coming up with different fun stuff to include in them!
Well, I have a meeting in about 30 minutes, so I'm off for a fun and exciting day!
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Knitting Meme
So how does your own list look? If you post this on your blog, put a note in the comments here letting me know to take a look!
THE RULES
Afghan/blanket (baby)
I-cord
Garter stitch
Shawl
Stockinette stitch
Socks: top-down
Socks: toe-up
Hat
Moebius band knitting
Sweater
Knitting with recycled/secondhand yarn
Slip-stitch patterns
Charity knitting
Knitting with soy yarn
Knitting with circular needles
Cable-stitch patterns
Lace patterns
Scarf
American/English knitting
Buttonholes
Knitting with alpaca
Household items (dishcloths, washcloths, tea cozies…)
Knitting with DPNs
Holiday-related knitting
Knitting with cotton
Fulling/felting
Knitting with wool
Textured knitting
Kitchener BO
Purses/bags
Swatching
Long-tail CO
Knitting with self-patterning/self-striping/variegated yarn
Baby items
Knitting with cashmere
Jewelry
Knitting with synthetic yarn
Intarsia
Cuffs/fingerless mitts/arm warmers
Knitting a pattern from an online knitting magazine
Knitting a gift
Knitting in public
Teaching a woman to knit
Knitting with metal wire
Knitting with camel yarn
Mittens: Cuff-up
Mittens: Tip-down
Knitting with silk
Participating in a KAL
Drop-stitch patterns
Knitting with banana fiber yarn
Domino knitting (modular knitting)
Twisted-stitch patterns
Knitting with bamboo yarn
Two-end knitting
Toy/doll clothing
Knitting with your own handspun yarn
Continental knitting
Designing knitted garments
Publishing a knitting book
Teaching a child to knit
Knitting to make money
Fair Isle knitting
Norwegian knitting
Dying with plant colors
Knitting items for a wedding
Knitting socks (or other small tubular items) on two circulars
Knitting with someone else’s handspun yarn
Teaching a man to knit
Bobbles
Knitting for a living
Dying yarn
Steeks
Knitting with beads
Entrelac
Knitting and purling backwards
Stuffed toys
Darning
Writing a pattern
Gloves
Knitting with linen
Knitting for preemies
Tubular CO
Freeform knitting
Short rows
Pillows
Rug
Thrummed knitting
Knitting for pets
Shrug/bolero/poncho
Knitting with dog/cat hair
Slippers
Graffiti knitting (knitting items on or to be left on the street)
Olympic knitting
Knitting smocking
Knitting art
Machine knitting
Knitting on a loom
Hair accessories
THE RULES
- Bold for stuff you’ve done
- Italics for stuff you plan to do one day
- Normal for stuff you’re not planning on doing
Afghan/blanket (baby)
I-cord
Garter stitch
Shawl
Stockinette stitch
Socks: top-down
Socks: toe-up
Hat
Moebius band knitting
Sweater
Knitting with recycled/secondhand yarn
Slip-stitch patterns
Charity knitting
Knitting with soy yarn
Knitting with circular needles
Cable-stitch patterns
Lace patterns
Scarf
American/English knitting
Buttonholes
Knitting with alpaca
Household items (dishcloths, washcloths, tea cozies…)
Knitting with DPNs
Holiday-related knitting
Knitting with cotton
Fulling/felting
Knitting with wool
Textured knitting
Kitchener BO
Purses/bags
Swatching
Long-tail CO
Knitting with self-patterning/self-striping/variegated yarn
Baby items
Knitting with cashmere
Jewelry
Knitting with synthetic yarn
Intarsia
Cuffs/fingerless mitts/arm warmers
Knitting a pattern from an online knitting magazine
Knitting a gift
Knitting in public
Teaching a woman to knit
Knitting with metal wire
Knitting with camel yarn
Mittens: Cuff-up
Mittens: Tip-down
Knitting with silk
Participating in a KAL
Drop-stitch patterns
Knitting with banana fiber yarn
Domino knitting (modular knitting)
Twisted-stitch patterns
Knitting with bamboo yarn
Two-end knitting
Toy/doll clothing
Knitting with your own handspun yarn
Continental knitting
Designing knitted garments
Publishing a knitting book
Teaching a child to knit
Knitting to make money
Fair Isle knitting
Norwegian knitting
Dying with plant colors
Knitting items for a wedding
Knitting socks (or other small tubular items) on two circulars
Knitting with someone else’s handspun yarn
Teaching a man to knit
Bobbles
Knitting for a living
Dying yarn
Steeks
Knitting with beads
Entrelac
Knitting and purling backwards
Stuffed toys
Darning
Writing a pattern
Gloves
Knitting with linen
Knitting for preemies
Tubular CO
Freeform knitting
Short rows
Pillows
Rug
Thrummed knitting
Knitting for pets
Shrug/bolero/poncho
Knitting with dog/cat hair
Slippers
Graffiti knitting (knitting items on or to be left on the street)
Olympic knitting
Knitting smocking
Knitting art
Machine knitting
Knitting on a loom
Hair accessories
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Knitting Stash May 07
Here's a photo of my knitting stash storage at the house.
The black trunk was my husband's grandfather's and is stuffed to the brim with yarn. The basket of books on top is all that is keeping the lid from flying open. :)
The big blue bag is my spinning wheel folded up and in it's padded bag.
The black trunk was my husband's grandfather's and is stuffed to the brim with yarn. The basket of books on top is all that is keeping the lid from flying open. :)
The big blue bag is my spinning wheel folded up and in it's padded bag.
Monday, May 14, 2007
Who's Secret Pal 10 rocks?
Mine!I got a wonderful box today with a cheery pink wrapped package -- and what is even funnier is that these are the same colors of tissue paper that I used for my secret pal packages!
The pink package was soft and squishy, it smelled nice and crinkled a little when I squeezed it.
There was even a little card with a sweet sheep on the envelope!
So, do you want to know what was in it?
* 2 skeins of "grape" handspun, hand dyed yarn. I'm already thinking about what a great thick scarf it would make, I'm imagining it with Aran type cables...* Vanilla "Lip Blam!" With the dry Colorado air, this was a wonderful surprise. I use a lot of lip balm and this one smells really good. I have it on right now!
* A bag of heathered red roving. :) I'm digging right into that tomorrow!
Thank you, SP10!! I love everything!
What's New with Me!
I couldn't live with the jacked-up handles versus bottom on Cotton String Bag #2, so I carefully undid the 3 needle bind-off, changed the bottom to a round bottom with smaller needles so that it is more solid. We tried it out a the farmer's market on Sunday morning and it did a fantastic job of holding 1 lb of pasta and a green chile breakfast burrito. :)
The yarn is Butterfly Cotton and it took one ball plus a bit from a second ball. I did like the heaviness of the Fantasy Naturale of the first bag better, but this was easier to knit with.
I also started a tank top with a center front cable in Crystal Palace Bamboozle in the Strawberry-Lime color.And because I knit like I cook, patterns are occasionally just "suggestions" - so I am knitting this in the round instead of flat front/back pieces. Why seam if you don't have to? I love this yarn, the color is divine, I love that the stockinette edge at the bottom *doesn't* roll and the drape is fantastic!
I just hope that I have enough yarn and that the damn thing fits me well. I'm thinking it might be wise to pop in another long cable onto my Denise needles so that I can see how it really fits around my torso before I get too far into the body.
Finally, I have my first iris bloom of the season!
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Herb Garden and screwing up knitting
My herb garden is starting to fill in after a long cold winter!
The soapwort has engulfed it's corner of the garden and is almost as tall as the whiskey barrel pond already in some spots! The skullcap is poking up between the irises and has invaded other parts of the garden where it *knows* it doesn't belong -- the thyme plants hate being crowded by it! The enchincea's spiky leaves are up, valerian is thick and bushy and the rue looks to have tripled in size from last year.
As always the chocolate mint is taking up more room that it was originally allotted, the elfin thyme is getting greener and greener on it's rambling path across the rock wall and the St John's Wort is hiding in the daylilies.
I'm hoping that the tri-colored sage is able to recover from a horrible accident involving my husband and the lawn mower last season and that the lavender continues to fill in the open spot at the end of the driveway.
I finished cotton string bag #2 last night. However, I was paying 0% attention and started the three needle bind off on the bottom about 1/4 of the stitches before I should have. So, the handles go this way, while the bottom of the bag lays flat that way. (laugh). I'm going to have to live with it because I'm not certain I can undo the bind-off, pick up the correct stitches and correct it without making it worse.
The soapwort has engulfed it's corner of the garden and is almost as tall as the whiskey barrel pond already in some spots! The skullcap is poking up between the irises and has invaded other parts of the garden where it *knows* it doesn't belong -- the thyme plants hate being crowded by it! The enchincea's spiky leaves are up, valerian is thick and bushy and the rue looks to have tripled in size from last year.
As always the chocolate mint is taking up more room that it was originally allotted, the elfin thyme is getting greener and greener on it's rambling path across the rock wall and the St John's Wort is hiding in the daylilies.
I'm hoping that the tri-colored sage is able to recover from a horrible accident involving my husband and the lawn mower last season and that the lavender continues to fill in the open spot at the end of the driveway.
I finished cotton string bag #2 last night. However, I was paying 0% attention and started the three needle bind off on the bottom about 1/4 of the stitches before I should have. So, the handles go this way, while the bottom of the bag lays flat that way. (laugh). I'm going to have to live with it because I'm not certain I can undo the bind-off, pick up the correct stitches and correct it without making it worse.
Sunday, May 06, 2007
Father-in-Law Socks
Size: Men's Medium
Needle size used: US 1 Addi Turbo
Yarn: Brown Sheep Wildfoote in "Tom Cat" color
Method: Toe-Up, Magic Loop, Two at Once
Who the socks are for: My father-in-law
Date finished: Sunday, May 6, 2007
I *HAVE* to get some sock blockers. I hate that my socks look all weird when they are unblocked.
Needle size used: US 1 Addi Turbo
Yarn: Brown Sheep Wildfoote in "Tom Cat" color
Method: Toe-Up, Magic Loop, Two at Once
Who the socks are for: My father-in-law
Date finished: Sunday, May 6, 2007
I *HAVE* to get some sock blockers. I hate that my socks look all weird when they are unblocked.
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
My Favorite Spring Flower
I got an email this morning from the organizer of the Secret Pal 10 Swap asking about our favorite flowers, so I grabbed the camera to take a photo of some of my favorite flowers - TULIPS!
We've got a selection of pink and pink/white ruffled tulips blooming in the front yard right now. They make me smile everytime I see them! The pink ones in this photo are growing in the patch of chocolate mint. :)
I also found out this week about a Knitter's Coffee Swap, but I missed the deadline to join so I have to remember to check on that again at a later date for a different one!
Monday, April 30, 2007
Did you feel the earth stop spinning?
Last week I was couch bound by some wicked upper respiratory crud that still has me a bit winded. The crud was so bad I couldn't even knit.
Yesterday, however, I did take my friend Kati's "Cotton String Bag" class and get started on the bag with some varigated cotton from my stash. I got the handles done, the edging done, started the bag itself and then prompted screwed up the bag's body pattern requiring me to rip back to the edging. The cotton yarn is extremely difficult to knit with and I feel like I'm wrestling with it. However, I will love the completed bag and will enjoy taking it to the farmer's market with me.
Yesterday, however, I did take my friend Kati's "Cotton String Bag" class and get started on the bag with some varigated cotton from my stash. I got the handles done, the edging done, started the bag itself and then prompted screwed up the bag's body pattern requiring me to rip back to the edging. The cotton yarn is extremely difficult to knit with and I feel like I'm wrestling with it. However, I will love the completed bag and will enjoy taking it to the farmer's market with me.
Monday, April 23, 2007
Father-in-Law Socks...
I've turned the heel on the socks for my father-in-law but now am a little concerned that they aren't the right size. I used the charts in Charlene Schurch's Sensational Knitted Socks as a guideline, but I think I started turning the heel too early. I think I'll head to the yarn shop either today or tomorrow to find someone with a women's size 9 foot to try them on. Yes, I happen to know my father-in-law wears a woman's size 9 shoe...(snort)
Nothing else new on the needles, but I did teach a private beginning knit lesson yesterday afternoon and enjoyed it very much.
Nothing else new on the needles, but I did teach a private beginning knit lesson yesterday afternoon and enjoyed it very much.
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Father's Day Socks for John
Here's the start of the socks for the yarn that my father-in-law picked out last weekend. I'm a little nervous about fit because I can't have him try them on like I do with Dirk or myself. The only other person I've made a pair of socks for outside of Dirk and me is my mom -- but she has the same size foot as me so I tried them on as I went.
I'm using the sizing charts from Sensational Knitted Socks and am going to find someone at the knit shop with similar sized feet to try them on before I get too far. Though if they turn out to be too big, they will fit Dirk so not all will be lost.
These are also the first socks of mine that can count towards the 5280 project. (See blog button at the side for more information about this project!)
PS These are plain vanilla K2, P2 ribbing. I wasn't feeling inspired.
I'm using the sizing charts from Sensational Knitted Socks and am going to find someone at the knit shop with similar sized feet to try them on before I get too far. Though if they turn out to be too big, they will fit Dirk so not all will be lost.
These are also the first socks of mine that can count towards the 5280 project. (See blog button at the side for more information about this project!)
PS These are plain vanilla K2, P2 ribbing. I wasn't feeling inspired.
Monday, April 16, 2007
Friday Night Sit 'n Knit
I love to go to YarnArts on Friday nights. This Friday we had a special guest stop by....my husband and his father. I really thought Dirk was kidding when he said "maybe I'll bring dad by the shop..." as I couldn't imagine anything more boring to my father-in-law! However, I forgot that he does enjoy pretty women and there is no shortage of them at Sit 'n Knit!
They stayed for less than 20 minutes, however both men did pick out sock yarn and put in a request for socks. They even picked the same yarn -- Brown Sheep Wildfoote Luxury Sock Yarn in the 'Tom Cat' colorway. :) I cast on the first pair last night and will need to decide what foot/leg patterning I want to use once I get the toe increases done.
Tomorrow night I have another 'Toe-Up Sock' class that I'm teaching. I love to teach these classes! If you are in the Denver area, the class is from 5 to 7 PM and is $20.00 at YarnArts of Parker and I've got room for a few more students!
They stayed for less than 20 minutes, however both men did pick out sock yarn and put in a request for socks. They even picked the same yarn -- Brown Sheep Wildfoote Luxury Sock Yarn in the 'Tom Cat' colorway. :) I cast on the first pair last night and will need to decide what foot/leg patterning I want to use once I get the toe increases done.
Tomorrow night I have another 'Toe-Up Sock' class that I'm teaching. I love to teach these classes! If you are in the Denver area, the class is from 5 to 7 PM and is $20.00 at YarnArts of Parker and I've got room for a few more students!
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
FO: Wool Peddler's Shawl
It's DONE!And the photo is pretty crappy....and it still needs to be blocked. Once I sorted out where the markers go along with how and when to move them, the pattern was really easy. The only difference I'm noticing in mine is that I didn't do any "partial" repeats of the pattern in the middle, so I've got some stockinette stitch were on the cover of the Folk Shawl's book, there is lace. However, I love it!
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Knitting Update
I'm on the second to last lace pattern repeat on my Wool Peddler's Shawl. Goal is to try to have it completed by this weekend so that I can wear it during the impending snow storm I've heard is heading our way.
I turned the heel on my cute little lace socks and now it's dreadfully boring knitting round and round and round up the cuffs. This is why my socks always wind up as ankle socks... However, I'm determined to make these really tall. I also am dying to cast on with the Sockatta gift yarn that I got recently, so I have to either finish the lace socks or buy another Addi Turbo 40" in US 1. However, I don't think the husband will see the merit in purchasing a new needle because I'm bored with the project currently on the needles...
Let's see what else is new....erhm...nothing much. Well, if I want that shawl done I think I better go get knittin' on it!
I turned the heel on my cute little lace socks and now it's dreadfully boring knitting round and round and round up the cuffs. This is why my socks always wind up as ankle socks... However, I'm determined to make these really tall. I also am dying to cast on with the Sockatta gift yarn that I got recently, so I have to either finish the lace socks or buy another Addi Turbo 40" in US 1. However, I don't think the husband will see the merit in purchasing a new needle because I'm bored with the project currently on the needles...
Let's see what else is new....erhm...nothing much. Well, if I want that shawl done I think I better go get knittin' on it!
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
Great Adirondack Yarn.....
...sigh.... Yarn Arts just got in some of the most beautiful yarns!They are G-O-R-G-E-O-U-S!!!
Monday, April 02, 2007
Neck Down Sweater -- 100% Complete
The final decision on the length was determined by the tiny bit of yarn left over after I finished the neck -- which was very little. Because I don't want to use a whole 'nother skein of handpainted yarn at $24.95 for just another 1-2 inches in length, I'm going to leave it as is. *unless of course I change my mind again -- laugh*
Oh, the photos? Of course! Here's the finished product and a shot of the *beautiful* neckline with the correct decreases:
Oh, the photos? Of course! Here's the finished product and a shot of the *beautiful* neckline with the correct decreases:
Sockotta Sock Yarn
A very dear friend gave me a surprise gift today -- Sockotta sock yarn! YIPPPPPPEEEEE! I've heard fabulous things about this yarn and I'm excited to give it a whirl. I love that it's a cotton/wool/nylon blend because it will make great summer socks! And my first pair towards the DenverKnits 5280 sock challenge. However, I must first
finish the lace socks currently on my favorite sock needle.
[Note: Rumor has it that this yarn may be coming to my LYS soon.]
I'm 3/4 of the way through the first lace repeat in my Wool Peddler's shawl, it's going very well -- FINALLY. I had a *very* rocky start on the lace which had me on the verge of tears and ready to throw the whole thing in the trash. I actually yelled at the cat for purring too loudly while I was trying to decipher the pattern. (snort) The pattern wasn't written clearly to me about where the markers go and when you increase stitches INSIDE of them. Then I found an extremely helpful worksheet online where someone had written out how many stitches were between which markers on which rows and now it's perfectly clear to me!!
Sweater Update: I picked up the stitches for the neck ribbing last night. Got it all done, looked at it and noticed that it was very apparent this was my first go -- the decreases were will-nilly, some were backwards -- all and all it looked like utter shit. I pulled them out, got some good advice a YarnArts and a fellow knitters blog. I'm now confident the neck will be completed tonight and I will be happy with the results.
finish the lace socks currently on my favorite sock needle.
[Note: Rumor has it that this yarn may be coming to my LYS soon.]
I'm 3/4 of the way through the first lace repeat in my Wool Peddler's shawl, it's going very well -- FINALLY. I had a *very* rocky start on the lace which had me on the verge of tears and ready to throw the whole thing in the trash. I actually yelled at the cat for purring too loudly while I was trying to decipher the pattern. (snort) The pattern wasn't written clearly to me about where the markers go and when you increase stitches INSIDE of them. Then I found an extremely helpful worksheet online where someone had written out how many stitches were between which markers on which rows and now it's perfectly clear to me!!
Sweater Update: I picked up the stitches for the neck ribbing last night. Got it all done, looked at it and noticed that it was very apparent this was my first go -- the decreases were will-nilly, some were backwards -- all and all it looked like utter shit. I pulled them out, got some good advice a YarnArts and a fellow knitters blog. I'm now confident the neck will be completed tonight and I will be happy with the results.
Saturday, March 31, 2007
Secret Pal 10 Gift
How lucky am I? Look at the goodies I got in the mail yesterday from my Secret Pal!!
Chocolate, yummy smelling soap, a cute notepad and a delicious hank of hand dyed fingering weight yarn!
I love the colors on the yarn and I'm picturing it as a little lacy wrap/scarf!
You can see the edge of the box that everything came in and it's so pretty I don't want to throw it away. I told my secret pal that I was going to send it to my assigned secret pal with a note telling her where I got and suggesting she use it to send her package to HER secret pal with a note asking her to send it on and so on and so on...
Chocolate, yummy smelling soap, a cute notepad and a delicious hank of hand dyed fingering weight yarn!
I love the colors on the yarn and I'm picturing it as a little lacy wrap/scarf!
You can see the edge of the box that everything came in and it's so pretty I don't want to throw it away. I told my secret pal that I was going to send it to my assigned secret pal with a note telling her where I got and suggesting she use it to send her package to HER secret pal with a note asking her to send it on and so on and so on...
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Wool Peddler's Shawl
knit, whoops! don't forget the yarn over, knit, knit, knit, knit, knit, knit, knit..and on and on and on.
This shawl is going to be gorgeous. I love the yarn.
And to give you a better idea of the size thus far, here's a quick photo of one of the world's most annoying cats enjoying himself by rolling all over the shawl while I was trying to get a decent photo this morning:
This shawl is going to be gorgeous. I love the yarn.
And to give you a better idea of the size thus far, here's a quick photo of one of the world's most annoying cats enjoying himself by rolling all over the shawl while I was trying to get a decent photo this morning:
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Wool Peddler's Shawl
I've had the book Folk Shawls for about a year and last night I finally started one of the patterns in it. :)
It's the Wool Peddler's Shawl and I'm using a heathered red 100% wool by Galway. This is the first time I've used this yarn, but I recommend it all the time at the shop as so many people really like it. Now, I can confirm that it is wonderful -- it's soft, spun very well and is working up evenly.
Stay tuned for details!
It's the Wool Peddler's Shawl and I'm using a heathered red 100% wool by Galway. This is the first time I've used this yarn, but I recommend it all the time at the shop as so many people really like it. Now, I can confirm that it is wonderful -- it's soft, spun very well and is working up evenly.
Stay tuned for details!
Thursday, March 22, 2007
It's done -- I cut up a fair isle sweater!
Here is the body and sleeves laid out for measurements.
Here's the first armhole for the sleeves cut open.woo-hooo!
Here's the the front cut open so that the sweater becomes a cardigan!
In case you are interested in seeing what the sweater looks like inside out
And finally here's the sweater being modeled by my bunny!
Sunday, March 18, 2007
Top Down Sweater 03-2007
99% done and I have just a small bit of yarn left on the current skein.
I hope it's enough to finish the neckline, if not I do have another whole skein of this yarn. I was hoping to not have to use it so that I could return it for something else, but oh well, if I do, right? It's better to have too much yarn than not enough. :) If I do have to use the final skein, I'm also going to unravel the bottom edge and make a turned under hem instead of the ribbing and make it a bit longer.
Ok, I've mentally worked through this sweater via this post....I'll use the last skein so that I CAN make it longer and with a turned under hem.
On Friday I was looking at the little lace socks, decided I couldn't live with the miscount in the lace and pulled both of them off the needles and re-balled the skein. I re-cast on and am almost back at the same point at the picture in the post down a little further on this page. I also started and almost completed the first arm for my bear sweater this morning at the shop, thought it looked to big, pulled it all out and THEN asked Kati's opinion to which she replied that the arm should look big in comparison to the body since teddy bears aren't shaped like people. shit...back to square one.
I stopped at Blockbuster and got three movies, so in about two minutes I'm going to head back out to the sunroom, pop in a movie and crank out two sleeves for the bear sweater before I reward myself with an amazing bottle of wine. :)
I hope it's enough to finish the neckline, if not I do have another whole skein of this yarn. I was hoping to not have to use it so that I could return it for something else, but oh well, if I do, right? It's better to have too much yarn than not enough. :) If I do have to use the final skein, I'm also going to unravel the bottom edge and make a turned under hem instead of the ribbing and make it a bit longer.
Ok, I've mentally worked through this sweater via this post....I'll use the last skein so that I CAN make it longer and with a turned under hem.
On Friday I was looking at the little lace socks, decided I couldn't live with the miscount in the lace and pulled both of them off the needles and re-balled the skein. I re-cast on and am almost back at the same point at the picture in the post down a little further on this page. I also started and almost completed the first arm for my bear sweater this morning at the shop, thought it looked to big, pulled it all out and THEN asked Kati's opinion to which she replied that the arm should look big in comparison to the body since teddy bears aren't shaped like people. shit...back to square one.
I stopped at Blockbuster and got three movies, so in about two minutes I'm going to head back out to the sunroom, pop in a movie and crank out two sleeves for the bear sweater before I reward myself with an amazing bottle of wine. :)
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Golf Club Cover - Stripes
Here is the version of the Golf Club Cover that I'll actually be using for the class I'm teaching in April. I think it came out really cute! Almost makes me wish I golfed so that I could knit up some fun and funky covers for my clubs...
This week I also got the information for the SecretPal 10 swap. Woo-hooo! I love to make up gift boxes and I've already started a box by my desk of things to send off to my pal as well as making a list of things I need to go get or make. :)
I got up really early this morning, cranked out all my work so that I could curl up on the couch with some knitting, my boxers, my husband and watch a DVD this afternoon. I will sheepishly admit that we are addicted to "Nip/Tuck" which is what is on the DVD agenda today.
This week I also got the information for the SecretPal 10 swap. Woo-hooo! I love to make up gift boxes and I've already started a box by my desk of things to send off to my pal as well as making a list of things I need to go get or make. :)
I got up really early this morning, cranked out all my work so that I could curl up on the couch with some knitting, my boxers, my husband and watch a DVD this afternoon. I will sheepishly admit that we are addicted to "Nip/Tuck" which is what is on the DVD agenda today.
Monday, March 12, 2007
Yes, I've been Knitting!
I've gotten a lot done in the past week! Finished the body of my top down sweater and started on the first sleeve in addition to the following projects:
I finished my new felted clogs. My previous pair had to sadly be tossed into the bin after I walked holes into the bottoms of them. :( They will be sorely missed, however, I *LOVE* these hot pink ones! Wool is Cascade 200 and the novelty by diVe is called "Vermicelli". As always, this is a quick and easy pattern to knit up and since my feet are the smallest size, I can crank these out in a weekend.
How could I not have a pair of socks on the needles? These are a lace pattern that I've managed to screw up about 5 rows back and have no intention fixing since it's not life threatening that it's wrong and quite honestly, I'm probably the only person who will ever notice. The yarn is Trekking XXL in colorway 107. I like how they are coming out. The heels will be the Queen Kahauna gusset heel for toe-up socks.
Here is one of the current projects that I am the most proud of! This is my first go at Norwegian steeking, you can see the row of stitches up the front of this fair-isle tube where I will be (gasp!) be cutting this into a cardigan. I then have to cut out sides where the sleeves will be placed. Ok, so it's only teddy bear sized, but none the less I'm jazzed about learning a new technique and am thrilled at how it's come so far. Recognize the Cascade 200 leftovers from my clogs? This actually knit up really fast, I did the whole body yesterday at the shop.
And finally, yesterday at the shop we were brainstorming about new class ideas, so I volunteered to knit up a golf club cover for as a store model for an April class. I still need to duplicate stitch in a number "'3" to mark which club it goes on. This was pretty fast as well, I started last night, got 1/4 of the way through the houndstooth in about 2.5 hours. I finished it today in about another 2 hours.
I've really gotten into colorwork lately and have been working very hard at practicing the tension on two handed stranding!
I finished my new felted clogs. My previous pair had to sadly be tossed into the bin after I walked holes into the bottoms of them. :( They will be sorely missed, however, I *LOVE* these hot pink ones! Wool is Cascade 200 and the novelty by diVe is called "Vermicelli". As always, this is a quick and easy pattern to knit up and since my feet are the smallest size, I can crank these out in a weekend.
How could I not have a pair of socks on the needles? These are a lace pattern that I've managed to screw up about 5 rows back and have no intention fixing since it's not life threatening that it's wrong and quite honestly, I'm probably the only person who will ever notice. The yarn is Trekking XXL in colorway 107. I like how they are coming out. The heels will be the Queen Kahauna gusset heel for toe-up socks.
Here is one of the current projects that I am the most proud of! This is my first go at Norwegian steeking, you can see the row of stitches up the front of this fair-isle tube where I will be (gasp!) be cutting this into a cardigan. I then have to cut out sides where the sleeves will be placed. Ok, so it's only teddy bear sized, but none the less I'm jazzed about learning a new technique and am thrilled at how it's come so far. Recognize the Cascade 200 leftovers from my clogs? This actually knit up really fast, I did the whole body yesterday at the shop.
And finally, yesterday at the shop we were brainstorming about new class ideas, so I volunteered to knit up a golf club cover for as a store model for an April class. I still need to duplicate stitch in a number "'3" to mark which club it goes on. This was pretty fast as well, I started last night, got 1/4 of the way through the houndstooth in about 2.5 hours. I finished it today in about another 2 hours.I've really gotten into colorwork lately and have been working very hard at practicing the tension on two handed stranding!
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Sweater Update!
I'm at the end of the body!! Woo-hooo!! I can't believe how FAST this sweater went. However, I can't decide how to end it -- ribbing? a hemmed edge? I think I'm going to hold off on this part while I can get the opinion of Sophia at the yarn shop.
Onto the sweater arms this week -- ugh -- which means math to sort out where and how many decreases to get to the cuff. Which I will then have to wait to figure out how I want to finish.
P.S. I'm also wearing my new black & pink felted clogs. :)
Onto the sweater arms this week -- ugh -- which means math to sort out where and how many decreases to get to the cuff. Which I will then have to wait to figure out how I want to finish.
P.S. I'm also wearing my new black & pink felted clogs. :)
Sunday, March 04, 2007
My Sweater is growing!
Here's the progress after one week. I'm at the "quick" part now -- round and round and round on the body. This morning I started at where the arms were divided so I got a TON done today while I was at the shop. It's easier for me to mindlessly knit while chatting -- and I had a wonderful afternoon of idle gossip and chatter to keep my needles flying.
I don't really want to do the hem with standard ribbing, so I think I'm going to give whirl at a turned under hem.
Last night I stopped working my sweater at the armpits so that I could stop in at the shop to get confirmation that I was stopping at the right spot.
And because I can't bear to watch a movie and just sit on the couch, I started new felted slippers! I walked big holes in my first pair and really needed to get moving on these. This is possibly one of the *easiest* and fastest projects around. I started and completed this last night, I do need to make the outer sole and the second slipper, so by Wednesday I imagine you'll see them on my feet.
Yarn: Cascade 200 with 'Vermicelli' novelty yarn in the cuff.
I don't really want to do the hem with standard ribbing, so I think I'm going to give whirl at a turned under hem.
Last night I stopped working my sweater at the armpits so that I could stop in at the shop to get confirmation that I was stopping at the right spot.
And because I can't bear to watch a movie and just sit on the couch, I started new felted slippers! I walked big holes in my first pair and really needed to get moving on these. This is possibly one of the *easiest* and fastest projects around. I started and completed this last night, I do need to make the outer sole and the second slipper, so by Wednesday I imagine you'll see them on my feet.
Yarn: Cascade 200 with 'Vermicelli' novelty yarn in the cuff.
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
A New Sweater on the Needles
I started a neck down 'V' neck sweater over the weekend. It's a "non-pattern" pattern - which means I'm making it up as I go.
The yarn is JJ's Handpainted and it's being knit on US 9 needles.
The yarn is JJ's Handpainted and it's being knit on US 9 needles.
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Column of Leaves Scarf - DONE!
It's done and being modeled by one gorgeous boxer boy! (yes, I'm a photo moron and that's the edge of my sweater sleeve in the upper left corner).
Call me mean, but I'm excited it's going to be cold and snowy this weekend so that I can wear my new scarf. :)
Here's a better shot where you can see the detail of the pattern:
Sunday, February 18, 2007
Toe Up Sock Class
Yesterday I taught my first toe-up sock class and had a really good time, I hope the students taking the class enjoyed it as much as I did! I was excited that everyone got to take home one whole completed sock after the two hour class -- ok, so it was a tiny sock, but it was a sock!
Friday night's Sit 'N Knit had a handful of new people which was really nice. I love to see what everyone else is working on and what they've finished up. I started a pair of socks, but ripped them out yesterday morning when I realized that they were going to be too big for me, but that I didn't have enough yarn to make them into socks for my wonderful husband. Cast on same yarn yesterday afternoon using a provisional cast-on for a short row toe, which I had never done. Unfortunately, again, the socks were going to be too big (I was following a lace pattern that I wasn't sure how to adjust smaller) -- so rip, rip, rip again.... This morning I picked up the SAME yarn again, started the socks and they are going swimmingly. The yarn is Brown Sheep Wildfoote in a navy/hunter green/magenta-ish purple colorway and the pattern is the beaded rib from Sensational Knitted Socks, my favorite sock book!
Photos to come at a later date.
Friday night's Sit 'N Knit had a handful of new people which was really nice. I love to see what everyone else is working on and what they've finished up. I started a pair of socks, but ripped them out yesterday morning when I realized that they were going to be too big for me, but that I didn't have enough yarn to make them into socks for my wonderful husband. Cast on same yarn yesterday afternoon using a provisional cast-on for a short row toe, which I had never done. Unfortunately, again, the socks were going to be too big (I was following a lace pattern that I wasn't sure how to adjust smaller) -- so rip, rip, rip again.... This morning I picked up the SAME yarn again, started the socks and they are going swimmingly. The yarn is Brown Sheep Wildfoote in a navy/hunter green/magenta-ish purple colorway and the pattern is the beaded rib from Sensational Knitted Socks, my favorite sock book!
Photos to come at a later date.
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Valentine's Day
I told my husband not to waste $50+ on roses for me....instead this morning I got a little bag with these inside!
Yippeee!
Yippeee!
Monday, February 12, 2007
Oops!
While surfing around on Ebay last week, I "accidently on purpose" picked up two skeins of Lorna's Laces hand dyed Shepard Sock in the 'Hawaii' colorway.
It arrived today. It's gorgeous and it's begging me to get out the ball winder.
However, I will resist as...sigh...I'd like to finish the Column of Leaves scarf before spring. I am about 75% of the way through it and it's going quicker than when I first started. Tonight is a 'sit on the couch, knit and watch Heroes' night, so I hope to make good progress.
I just need to keep my eyes on the goal....finish the scarf, start the socks!
Sunday, February 11, 2007
Column of Leaves Scarf
The scarf is still in progress. I'm starting to wonder if it will still be cold when it's done.
Otherwise, I'm wearing this freaking scarf in the middle of June.
Otherwise, I'm wearing this freaking scarf in the middle of June.
The spinning is coming along...
Since getting the wheel for my birthday last November, I've been very remiss in spending time with "Anansi" (that's the wheel's name).
Most of what I learned about spinning with a wheel has been through reading books and trial and error, resulting in very mixed (aka pretty crappy) results on the bobbin. Anyway, yesterday I met with a spinner at my local yarn store where she sat with me, watching and giving me some pointers -- the biggest was "stop treadling with the music, you're going too fast!!"
Most of what I learned about spinning with a wheel has been through reading books and trial and error, resulting in very mixed (aka pretty crappy) results on the bobbin. Anyway, yesterday I met with a spinner at my local yarn store where she sat with me, watching and giving me some pointers -- the biggest was "stop treadling with the music, you're going too fast!!"
Monday, February 05, 2007
Remember this Project?
To refresh your memory, last year I signed up for a "Mystery Stole" KAL online.
I had always admired lace knitting, stoles and wanted to give them both a go. Being me, I jumped with both feet into a project that really tested my inabilities. Never knitted with laceweight yarn? [Nope.] Never used a chart? [Huh? What's a chart?]
In the past two days, 2 different people asked me whatever happened with this project. To both I admitted that it was "resting" in it's project bag, patiently awaiting me to pull it back it out one day.
Today was that day. I pulled out the tote, gently unrolled the work, straightened out the needles and took a good look at it. Are there mistakes? You betcha. Can I live with them? Hell, yes.
All in all, taking a good look what I've already completed, I did really well for not having a good idea what I was doing and just knitting along without a clue. (laugh).
Dirk is working late tonight, so I'm going to sit down with with this project and try to knock out the last 2/3's of side 1 of Chart 3. The black lines are placeholders across the work to section off each of the charts, which start in the middle. On the far left side you can see that I've got quite a few rows of side 1/chart 3 already started.
I had always admired lace knitting, stoles and wanted to give them both a go. Being me, I jumped with both feet into a project that really tested my inabilities. Never knitted with laceweight yarn? [Nope.] Never used a chart? [Huh? What's a chart?]
In the past two days, 2 different people asked me whatever happened with this project. To both I admitted that it was "resting" in it's project bag, patiently awaiting me to pull it back it out one day.
Today was that day. I pulled out the tote, gently unrolled the work, straightened out the needles and took a good look at it. Are there mistakes? You betcha. Can I live with them? Hell, yes.
All in all, taking a good look what I've already completed, I did really well for not having a good idea what I was doing and just knitting along without a clue. (laugh).
Dirk is working late tonight, so I'm going to sit down with with this project and try to knock out the last 2/3's of side 1 of Chart 3. The black lines are placeholders across the work to section off each of the charts, which start in the middle. On the far left side you can see that I've got quite a few rows of side 1/chart 3 already started.
Secret Pal 10: The Questionnaire
1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
I'm a huge fan of sock yarns! I like most types of yarn -- wool, cotton, merino, angora! I get a lot of my yarns through KnitPicks and have not be disappointed with any of them. I'm not a fan of cheap acrylic, I do however like a higher quality acrylic blend like Encore Worsted.
2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
My favorite circular sock needles are stored in the little Addi Turbo baggies that they came in. Exciting, eh?
3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
I started knitting just over a year ago. A friend showed me the basics and then I got every book that our local library had on the shelves. I'd rate myself a very adventurous intermediate knitter.
4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
I think so.
5. What's your favorite scent?
I love earthy scents like patchouli, sage, ylang ylang. Scents that are too flowery make me sneeze.
6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
I *love* Green and Blacks chocolate! And the Cadbury Fruit and Nut bars.
7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?
I am very much a do-it-yourselfer! Yes, I spin and am a beginner on both the wheel and drop spindle. I would love to have a better drop spindle than the one I am currently using.
8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
I've got eclectic musical tastes that range from The Grateful Dead to Joy Division! I have an MP3 player that I love to listen to audio books on!
9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand?
I like purples, silver, greens, browns, rusty reds -- really, I'm not picky about color.
10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
Married to the love of my life. Have boxer dogs who lay around on the couch all day and cats who own the place.
11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
Yes
12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
SOCKS! I'm a sock nut because they are quick, easy and portable!
13. What are you knitting right now?
A lace sampler scarf with laceweight yarn, another lace work patterned scarf but in worsted weight, a pair of socks and would like to start a pinwheel sweater!
14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
Very much so, they are the best kind.
15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
Depends on the project, but I mostly use circular needles in either aluminum or bamboo.
16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
Yes, both.
17. How old is your oldest UFO?
Less than a year
18. What is your favorite holiday?
Halloween
19. Is there anything that you collect?
Apparently, yarn and roving...(laugh)
20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
I subscribe to Interview Knits. I have a few books on my wish list: Favorite Socks:
Twenty-five of the best sock patterns by Interweave Knits; Knitting Without Tears and Knitting Around by Elizabeth Zimmerman
21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
I'd like to get better at Fair-Isle and try steeking.
22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
Yes, on sock knitting. I wear a size US 5.5 women's regular width.
23. When is your birthday?
November 18
I'm a huge fan of sock yarns! I like most types of yarn -- wool, cotton, merino, angora! I get a lot of my yarns through KnitPicks and have not be disappointed with any of them. I'm not a fan of cheap acrylic, I do however like a higher quality acrylic blend like Encore Worsted.
2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
My favorite circular sock needles are stored in the little Addi Turbo baggies that they came in. Exciting, eh?
3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
I started knitting just over a year ago. A friend showed me the basics and then I got every book that our local library had on the shelves. I'd rate myself a very adventurous intermediate knitter.
4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
I think so.
5. What's your favorite scent?
I love earthy scents like patchouli, sage, ylang ylang. Scents that are too flowery make me sneeze.
6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
I *love* Green and Blacks chocolate! And the Cadbury Fruit and Nut bars.
7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?
I am very much a do-it-yourselfer! Yes, I spin and am a beginner on both the wheel and drop spindle. I would love to have a better drop spindle than the one I am currently using.
8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
I've got eclectic musical tastes that range from The Grateful Dead to Joy Division! I have an MP3 player that I love to listen to audio books on!
9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand?
I like purples, silver, greens, browns, rusty reds -- really, I'm not picky about color.
10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
Married to the love of my life. Have boxer dogs who lay around on the couch all day and cats who own the place.
11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
Yes
12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
SOCKS! I'm a sock nut because they are quick, easy and portable!
13. What are you knitting right now?
A lace sampler scarf with laceweight yarn, another lace work patterned scarf but in worsted weight, a pair of socks and would like to start a pinwheel sweater!
14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
Very much so, they are the best kind.
15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
Depends on the project, but I mostly use circular needles in either aluminum or bamboo.
16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
Yes, both.
17. How old is your oldest UFO?
Less than a year
18. What is your favorite holiday?
Halloween
19. Is there anything that you collect?
Apparently, yarn and roving...(laugh)
20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
I subscribe to Interview Knits. I have a few books on my wish list: Favorite Socks:
Twenty-five of the best sock patterns by Interweave Knits; Knitting Without Tears and Knitting Around by Elizabeth Zimmerman
21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
I'd like to get better at Fair-Isle and try steeking.
22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
Yes, on sock knitting. I wear a size US 5.5 women's regular width.
23. When is your birthday?
November 18
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