SO MUCH YARN, SO LITTLE TIME!

That single ball of yarn.

2011-10-18T09:26:00.002-04:00

Five months...to the day! Hello!

ok, so, I've decided to try and clean up the little stash I have. I bought it for a reason...so why not knit with it?! Crazy concept.

I've had this single ball of Rowan's cashsoft 4ply in a beautiful grey sitting all lonely-like in the drawer.
What to do with it?
I've had an obsession with infinity scarves lately...but one ball is hardly enough.
Obviously in order for me to use up this single ball of yarn, I need another. I know, crazy but true. So off to the yarn store I went and oddly enough they had another ball, same colour and dyelot. BINGO. A grey loop it is...literally.

The lace pattern looked very simple and would be a great mindless knit. No thinking...easy to multitask, knitting and watching Roman, no problem. Well, the lace was written out wrong. Unlike the other knitters on Ravelry who were knitting this, I had to fix it. So simple, the designer didn't write in her plain knit rounds. So I was off again, knitting away. The yarn is beautiful and as soft as you would expect...perfect. I finished it up in a few days and blocked it.

Now the problem. It rolls. No, IT ROLLS!!

The garter stitch edge was not enought to stabalize it...oh does it roll...like the dead sea scroll. Crap. I don't mind a little rolling, the movement is part of it. But now the simple pattern is lost. (it's not too bad in this photo, but after wearing it for a while, it is REALLY bad.)

Again, in this photo it is fine, but that is me trying to pull it out for the picture.

Out comes the crochet hook. I figure, like I almost know what I am doing, I would crochet a single crochet line across the wrong side, near the edge.
This does eliminate some of the rolling. It's not so severe.

The next problem...I only had enough yarn to do the one edge.

Yeah, so off to the yarn store today to get another ball...hopefully. I might as well pick up a couple and make a matching hat, no?

Three more balls of yarn in order to eliminate this single ball from my stash...not bad!?

Move it or lose it.

2011-05-18T09:00:00.003-04:00

There are very few downfalls in being a knitter. Knitting does do wonderful things for you. We all know it is a stress reliever, it keeps the mind moving, it shows one of your many talents, and you get a fantastic garment at the end of your work. So why would there be a problem?
Well, it causes you to sit.
I am guilty of this. I used to whip off sweaters in a few days. It is addictive...but it could be killing you!
Yes, that is right.
As knitters, we must be very mindful of our physical activity, or lack there of.

So this post, I hope, will inspire you to move. Sometimes it means we may need to put the knitting down for the better part of the day. I know...it will be a shock to the system, but you will thank me later.

This is one of the reasons that you are not seeing so many finished pieces from me...besides the fact that I have 3 boys plus a husband to look after, a house to keep up and I have lost my knitting mojo again. I have really been on a health kick. I work out at least 30 mins a day. It is not a lot, but it is something. It also gives me energy to complete all the other things that need to be done each day. I am back down to my prebaby weight...and even surpassed it a bit. I feel strong and healthy. I do knit, but it is only at night, after dinner. Sometimes I sneak in a 1/2hr during the day, and of course while waiting to pick up the boys from school...but that is it.

Don't laugh...I am a Jillian Michaels junkie.

I can't say that I love her technique on the Biggest Loser show. I know if I was a contestant, I would need her. I need someone to make me stop the excuses and get up and move. I am the queen of excuses for exercising. Too tired, no time, maybe later...I can talk my way out of it easily. Thankfully a friend introduced me to Jillians dvd's. Week one of ripped in 30, I was hooked. So do you really see results....ummmm...YEAH! It is a great work out dvd. You need very little room to do it and a set of hand weights. After doing 4 wks of this I started running again. 30 minutes 3 times a week, with the dvd on the other days. I have also picked up her Shred it with weights...yeah, did wk one yesterday and I am really sore today...a good sore, as well as her yoga dvd.

For about 10$, she can save your life. Go buy one. Seriously.
It is hard at first, but it gets easier. Trust me, after not having done anything during my pregnancy, it was very difficult to get through the first workout. Now, I love it.

I've also been reading Bob Greens new book 20 Years Younger. He talks about food, exercise, sleep and skincare. It is really a great book to inspire you to take care of yourself. Here's a little tidbit from the book that may scare you....especially if you are a knitter...

"according to an American cancer society study, women who are otherwise inactive and sit six hours a day increase their likelihood of early death by 98 percent compared to women who are very active and sit less than three hours per day."

Ouch. 98 percent!! Get off your butt. It's time. If you already do...fantastic, now inspire someone else and save their life!

We all have something to live longer for. Here is my something (oh that little one was awake last night crying from 3:55 am til 5:11am! I am exhausted today.)...from Matteo's first communion this past weekend...

(yes, it is hard to get a picture with all looking and smiling...)

Now, I am going to find the energy to do something...my workout clothes are on, I just need to force myself to get up;)

There is really no excuse.

2011-05-09T08:13:00.002-04:00

He wakes up at 6 am this baby. I should be up and at'em...but I am just not a morning person. I bring him to bed and try and close my eyes, hoping he'll catch my drift and fall asleep....no luck. This morning my headband was interesting enough to by me a few more minutes.
So there is no excuse, I could have so much done before I drop the kids to school...including blogging! Fifteen minutes and counting...

My mothers day did not involve breakfast in bed followed by a day of pampering...I'll be waiting for that when the boys get older. (I won't hold my breath)
I did get the baby taken away at his crazy 6am awake hour for a few more precious hours of sleep. And my coffee was made for me...not too bad:)

The boys spent a little time together in a livingroom fort...

Then the rest of the day was spent outdoors.

I decided since it was mothers day I was going to put the boys to work.
Pulling weeds, mixing composte, filling pots and prepping the gardens. Without help, this would have taken all week...so I am glad it is done.
I'm potting alot of my veggies this year, incase we move...yes, that is in the near future plans.

Roman enjoyed the day outside as well...

Not really sure what he was suppose to do!

Hope all you mothers had a wonderful day!

Changes are coming

2011-05-05T14:43:00.002-04:00

I've been considering shutting down...leaving the blog world. Most of my knitting content is updated pretty regularily on Ravelry, so why keep blogging? I clearly have little to no time for knitting or blogging, yet I am still drawn to it.

So I've made some decisions, or so I think I have.

I'll be making a little time for blogging, be it about the boys, my life, struggles, wins, knitting etc. Back to the basics, with some knitting on the side.

You may or may not find it interesting...to each their own:)

Make way for some changes, we all have to eventually.

Little Knitting

2011-04-06T09:22:00.002-04:00

I'm still around....doing a "little" knitting:)

Someone needs to let him know that it is not for him...he's not very happy when I take it away!

Just soooo tempting! For those who want to feel like they knit something in an evening you can find the pattern here.
Makes a great little gift!

Guilty as charged!

2011-02-15T12:32:00.002-05:00

Exhibit A

The mother who has not slept for more than 3 hours at a time for the past 6 months.

Notice the wrinkles in the brow and the eyes.
She has no energy to put on any make up to hide the bags under her eyes.
Yes, she has clean hair...today...but is still in her pj's. Well, she slept in her jogging pants. (yes, a puffy coat hides all when you are dropping your older children to school...not sure how that will work out come spring.)

Exhibit B

The choochie loving baby who keeps her up at night.

Do not be fooled by the cuteness...he can be a little devil.
He clearly has no understanding of the concept of weaning or sleeping through the night.
He will wake the neighbours to eat every few hours.

The baby would like to enter in exhibit C....

The sweater that has taken the constant attention off of him.
Do note that the mother was up finishing it off until 11:30 last night, instead of going to sleep when the baby did.
This sweater could be the cause of the wrinkles and bags...
And on top of all of this she is unsure of the length and will probably add more to it, which would require ripping back all of the bands to do so.
This mother is clearly indecisive.

Oh wait...the mother would like to enter exhibit D!!!

The valentines that she completed, keeping her up late in the evening the night before.
She would like to draw your attention to the crinkled up one on the right. The 8 year old who didn't like getting in trouble. He crinkled up the valentine and left it for her on her bedside table!
Added stress!

Ahhh, the rewards of motherhood.

Practical Knitting.

2011-02-07T16:31:00.002-05:00

I am a process knitter. I love knitting interesting projects, textures and using new techniques. This makes for great knitting....but not necessarily knitting I will wear. I have piles of handknit sweaters. Really, a couple piles. I hardly wear any of them. The things I buy to wear don't match the projects I choose to knit. There is another reason for this tragedy...I keep the heat low in the house and walk around in a tank top all winter. I get really hot in wool...but occasionally I will wear a wool sweater...when chilled. So I have made a decision to not knit anymore sweaters. Really. Why knit them when I won't wear them.

Sooooo...

I cast on for a sweater.
In a beautiful tweedy wool with angora! Yeah, that's right, I have issues. I am gonna wear it. This is why...
It is so luxurious feeling.
It is an open cardigan that I can wear a tank under.
It is pretty much all stocking stitch...a pattern I wear!
Ok, it doesn't make for the most exciting knitting, but for some reason I am excited about knitting it. I am knitting up a storm. I cast on Friday during the day and am done the body as written! I am going to lengthen it a bit so I am just about done the body.
So WHAT am I knitting?!?
Well thanks to Michelle, I cast on for the Effortless Cardigan designed by Hannah Fettig. It's gorgeous and practical and surprisingly (or not) I already had it in my favourites! It is the perfect project for my Debbie Bliss luxurious tweed! Well, I shouldn't say perfect because the gauge doesn't match, but by knitting the xs size (while following the lengths for the med) I will get the perfect medium size!

So far so good. It is mixed with a little baby drool...well a lot of baby drool...but I am knitting again!
Speaking of which, my time is up...he is wailing. Gotta run, more soon!

Knit a touque and embrace it!

2011-02-02T14:18:00.002-05:00

So the storm of the century arrived...a little disappointing. I love the panic leading up to it. People are crazy.
I love snow. I play in it and I can drive in it....unlike many others.
My own family is guilty of this panic. I won't mention any names, but someone sent me an email with a hourly play by play link to the storm about to hit Toronto. Another asked it I was watching the radar...seriously, you know who you are...who watches the radar?!? PANIC! Immediately I though of Rick Mercers rant...careful when you click on this link, it is hilarious.

Funny thing, the sister who watches the radar and who was disappointed in the actual snowfall thought of the same thing today and sent me the link! We both love Rick Mercers humour...this rant is a classic.
A foot of snow is not a lot...well that's what I thought until I had to shovel it. Of course the driveway had some higher drifts...and while I was shovelling the plow guy came by.
So typical, I know.
He actually waved and laughed when he drove by. Funny. Not.

Another not so funny thing....

That's a dropped stitch. The problem is I didn't discover it until I actually blocked it out. Too late to rip back or drop a stitch down to fix it. I was in disbelief...but it's been a week and it's time to fix it. At first I didn't understand, because the pattern worked out.
I dropped it a foot into the scarf.
Crappers.
I must have dropped one of the k2tog stitches. So I will attempt to pick it up and just hand stitch it in. A little disappointing, but that's all I can do! It will still be beautiful when complete:)

That's all the excitement-or not- here. Roman is getting bigger...and heavier.

Sitting up like a big boy!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-05T16:50:00.002-05:00

I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year! I am not going to dwell on the past...only accomplishing 20 knits last year...I've been a little busy.

It's a new year, and new things are abound. Onward we go!

Lets finish up with 2010. I happily completed my Great American Afghan! This was a project 2 years in the making...and I am sure millions of stitches!

Started: January 3, 2009
Finished: December 19, 2010
Yarn: Patons classic merino wool....just a reminder mom and dad...don't wash it! If it gets dirty, I will clean it:)

It is actually quite impressive once finished. The weight of it is so wonderful...and it's so warm. I decided on a simple triangular garter stitch edging that I adapted from a debbie bliss shawl/baby blanket that I once knit. I knit it on as I went so there wouldn't be an evening of endless seaming. The only problem with the edging is that it killed my left wrist. I literally couldn't knit...or lift the baby car seat with it for a week. It is still giving me grief. Might be another issue there that I better get checked.

I also knit up a simple ribbed hat out of cascade 220 for my nephew.

We no longer shop for all of the nieces and nephews. They all pick names amoungst each other. So I had three to shop for, not so bad. They all got their gifts topped with a knit mini snowman, of course:)

So now I am finishing up a few odds and ends. I am hoping January will be the month to clean up some unfinished knits and start up some fun new ones:)
So look forward to hearing about the cutest baby kit ever, a couple samples knit up for Shall We Knit, some double knit cowls, my luna bella, some spinning....lots to come.
I'm also busy preparing for another round of double knit classes! There is even a workshop in the making...stay tuned.

Mini knitting

2010-12-18T11:38:00.002-05:00

You know when I saw these little snowman on ravelry I just had to knit them!
I am a sucker for little knitting. I've been know to indulge in the tiny needles, a few scraps of yarn and some stuffing.
Come on! These little guys are perfect little gift adornments!

Pattern: Mochimochi snowmen
Yarn: My never ending supply of elann devon. I am so glad I bought a bunch of colours way back when!
Adjustments: Well, the first one I knit as written. I even took out the double pointed needles! I am a magic looper...but I decided to have a go at it. I knit number one just fine...but quickly left the dpns for some magic.
I decided to use judy's magic cast on...with the magic loop...so magical.

A few tips after knitting...well...8 snowmen...so far:

Knit the cast on tail in as you go. This saves weaving in one end. When you weave in your other end...lock it in place with a few stitches then send it through the snowman to the other end. Clip it close to the snowman's body and then give him a squeeze to send the end inside.

When starting the black embroidery...and I am not an embroiderer...I started at the bottom of the snowman and went inside and up into where the first eye will go. I used one longer strand of yarn to do both eyes and the arms/hands. Then I went from the last stitch...through the inside and out the neck area and clipped as I did the end from the body.

The last two snowmen's scarves had neatened up edges. (you will see when comparing the two photos above) I slipped the first stitch of each row. This made a tightly knit scarf with neat sides. I never measured any of the scarves. I simply wrapped it around my thumb to decide on the length. Again, knit the cast on tail in as you go. The cast off tail is used to sew the scarf to the snowman. I pretty much did it as written...just use a sharp needle. Putting a dull seaming needle through your snowmans neck is near impossible...and just cruel.

Lastly, be careful who is present when you knit these guys...they start lining up and picking scarf colours:)

The end is near....

2010-12-11T14:18:00.002-05:00

I have finished up the last two squares of my great american afghan. One has yet to be blocked and sewn in but I decided to start the edging. After a couple attempts, I chose a simple garter stitch triangular one. This looks just perfect with the garter stitch frames of the squares. I can also knit it on as I go, no more seaming!

I figure if I do 8 triangles a day, I will be in good shape for christmas!

Gone are the days of knitting a dozen hats and a couple sweater vests for gifts. I'm aiming for this afghan and a hat. So sad.

The tree is up...but I am still in my pj's. It's a lazy saturday. I need to go get dressed and pick up my christmas photos for the cards that should be sent out on monday...

My little king is almost 4 months!

On and Off the needles!

2010-11-18T09:23:00.000-05:00

I promised to show you what's on the needles...well...this one has been on and is now already off the needles:

Henry's Sweater for Roman.

He's smiling! He loves it!

Started: October 21, 2010
Finished: November 15, 2010
Pattern: Henry's sweater by Jenna Swanson. It's a free pattern!
Yarn: Spud and Chloe Sweater. You need more than one skein for the main colour in the 18 month size with very little for contrasting colour stripes. If you were making it in a solid colour, two skeins are plenty. This fantastic yarn is now available at Shall We Knit...and this sweater will be there to fondle for a short while;)
Adjustments: None, I made the 18 month size which he will be wearing shortly. Not that the sizing is off...I just have a big baby! He's two days shy of three months...

You can see it is a little long in the body and the arms. I was thinking he would wear it in the spring...but it'll be more like Christmas when he'll be sporting this fine sweater!

I love this yarn! I am hoping to find the time to write up more of a review...but you just need to know that it knits up nicely with beautiful stitch definition. I love the wool cotton blend...warm and breathable. It washes perfectly...IN THE WASHING MACHINE! You can put it in the dryer and take it out damp to reshape. No gauge problems at all. The colour choices are really lovely. I will definitely be using this yarn again...I am thinking of a hat in the cream. He hates hats, but wouldn't a earflap hat with cables look so perfect!?! Or what about a newsboy cap?!?

Christmas clean up...join me!

2010-11-10T11:44:00.002-05:00

A few months back...just before the baby...I did a little nesting. Cleaning, organizing...decluttering. I eliminated that BIG basket of projects. A few went into hibernation upstairs in the "yarn dresser", some were finished off and a very few made it into a smaller works in progress basket. Well, I haven't really picked any of these WIP up to finish them off. Of course, like any good knitter, I am ignoring them and moving on to bigger and better things.
Now my very little WIP basket is overflowing. I need to do something.

Hold that thought...crying baby.

Ok, trying to type with baby on the lap...he almost face planted into the laptop...oh man.

So the biggest WIP in my little basket is the Great American Afghan. I started this in January 2009. Yes, almost 2 years ago. It is not something I would normally choose to knit. I was new to town and started getting out to meet other knitters. The group was just starting to work on this, a square a month. Well, as sometimes it happens, knitters trickled out of the project. I continued, slowly. A square here and there.

I am not inspired to finish because it is not something that I would normally knit for my home.
So here is the thing. A lot of work has gone into this so far...I have to complete it. Why not finish it and gift it out for christmas?!

Hence, my Christmas clean up. I am hoping a few projects will make it in...but I will start with the afghan.
Today I am seaming. Yes, I realize I have not finished knitting the squares...there are two left...and I think I have one partly done somewhere...bedside table drawer?

Looks pretty good so far! I decided to seam the squares up, nothing fancy. I will search out an edging to add a little size and interest. Once complete, I think it will make a lovely...warm...gift for a home!

Join me in my Christmas clean up....what will you be finishing?

And now... a chubby baby photo

Feed me!

Be very quiet...

2010-10-21T10:05:00.003-04:00

I think the silence is the problem. Roman is so used to the noise of the boys, he has a hard time getting to sleep without it! He is finally napping and for some reason the computer is cooperating...which means there is time for a little blogging!
I figured out the reason for so much silence on this blog. Yes, the new baby takes up a lot of time but this computer is the main reason. I can no longer just load up some pictures to the computer, then to flicker, then to ravelry and enter in the details, hop over to blogger and load them up there then write a little about them...no. This computer can not handle anything over and above starting up. Seriously it has had it.
I could start it up and try to get the photos loaded which may now take 20 minutes...by that time I am on to other things and blogging is put on the back burner to when I have more time...which is never.
I have learned a little about HP computers from a tech friend. They are at the bottom of the list for good performing computers. They last about a year (this one is about 4 years old?) and it doesn't matter if you delete programs or photos or whatever to clear up some space, this won't help. I guess once you load things on to computers they eat up that space. So, all this being said...I have ordered a new laptop.
You will still find me on the ipad surfing away and reading blogs...mostly playing Words With Friends. As soon as the new computer arrives, you will hopefully see an incease in blogging...if not I will throw this whole theary out the window. (speaking of window...I guess windows 7 is pretty good...and the vista that I currently have sucks.)

Ok, enough computer talk, lets get to knitting. Get ready because the computer is behaving so this will be a big update!

Off the needles...

I have finally finished my feb lady sweater!

The photo is horrible...I want to take another one, but lets be realistic, there is no time for that! The shirt underneath is all bunched up...I love how the wind has caught the bottom front of the sweater...but that is about it!
Ok, here are the specs:
Started: January 17, 2010
Finished: September 21, 2010
Yarn: Cascade 220 colour 9465 7 skeins...i don't think I used much of the 7th skein...I was pregnant and don't remember!
Pattern: February Lady Sweater
Adjustments: I made the 41" size, which is still large. I was hoping to copy Lise and make more of a sweater coat than a sweater. I really struggled with when to stop knitting for my arms. I have large arms and I wanted room to wear clothing underneath it...but the arm holes are too big. I knew this as I was knitting away, but evidently didn't care enough to rip it back. It is not that bad, but you can see how it bunches under the arm.
I just kept knitting until it was "long enough" I love the length of it...perfect for the sweater coat look. I did the same thing for the arms. No tapering of the sleeves, just knit until I liked the length.
I blocked it out on my board and then when it was just about dry I hung it on a suit hanger. This helped with the shaping of the shoulders and how the yarn draped.
I am not a fan of this neckline on me, but I knit it anyway...hopefully I will wear it! If not it could be gifted to a sister...time will tell.
I love the colour of this yarn. It is a black/brown colour with almost a gray flec in it...gorgeous. I keep thinking it would make the perfect afghan for my livingroom...

Maybe, one day.

Next up are some socks. I finally finished dad's birthday socks! His birthday was in July...

Started: July 25, 2010
Finished: October 6, 2010
Yarn: lang jawool silk in a black gray, with a cuff in regia silk blue.
Pattern: My own...just a simple ribbing with a cable on the edges.
I knit these toe up so I use up all the yarn...which wasn't enough so I added some regia silk in blue that I had kicking around for the cuff. You know, instead of gold toe socks these are blue cuff socks...the next latest rage...

Next up is a little hat for Roman. I've had this one in my favourites for a while...and I needed a little travel project after the socks where done.

Started: October 17, 2010
Finished: October 12, 2010
Yarn: Left overs of Elann Devon in navy and green.
Pattern: Sweet Baby Cap
Adjustments: None, it knits up quickly and beautifully! I will definitely be making more of these...once he learns to love wearing them:) Babies don't like to sit still for photos...we tried. I knit the smallest size, but it is still a little big, which just means he will be able to wear it longer!

Well, he is awake...I tried to put in the choochie (oh someone had asked what this is...my word for soother)...but when I got up I stepped on a toy that started to play music...times up! Hopefully this week I will get to what's "on the needles"!!

Get excited...I have knitting content!

2010-09-13T10:31:00.002-04:00

Ok, I didn't do my hair...but I showered, so I figure that was good enough for knitting pictures!
I finished something! The Aeolian shawl.

Started: June 16, 2010
Finished: August 18, 2010
Pattern: Aeolian Shawl on Knitty.com. I made the middle size, the purple shoulderette.
Yarn: One skein of Tannis' Mulberry silk. A gorgeous yarn!
Adjustments: Ok, I was pregnant while knitting this, so be patient...I'll try to remember. I did read on Tannis' blog how she had to do the alternate edging for the shawl in order to get away with one skein...but of course I was just knitting away on it and forgot all about that...I knew I would run out of yarn so I cast off a row early. That didn't work I had about 20 sts left to cast off (not the written cast off but just a regular cast off with a larger needle) with not a bit of yarn left. So I decided to rip back 8 rows and not make the nubbs in this section. I was making the 7 st nubbs throughout...no beads. I still had to cast off a row early. So I am missing that final st st row. I cast off on the wrong side purling, with a larger sized needle.

Although I would really have liked the nubbs in the finally rows, I was not willing to rip back the last chart...I am satisfied with what I did.

The pattern is really well written and I love the size of the finished shawl. I love to wear them just wrapped around...

or as a scarf...

I have always spoke highly of Tannis' yarn. This new mulberry silk is really beautiful. I had a few problems winding it because it is so slippery. I ended up hand winding an outer pull ball, which was perfect. There was a little colour loss when I wet block it...but not a lot. Her colours are so vibrant and this plum is just gorgeous. I would highly recommend this yarn.

In other news...we celebrated Lucca's 8th birthday...a little lazertag and a starwars cake!

Roman loves parties!

You know I had to get a baby picture in here somewhere;)

I should be napping...

2010-09-08T13:56:00.002-04:00

I'm pretty tired now. I really should sleep when he sleeps, but who ever does that. I think the lack of sleep is finally catching up with me. I was and still am worried about this headache I have...hoping it doesn't escalate into a migraine.
Last night I finally gave in to the choochie.

I didn't want to introduce it until the thrush is completely gone...but at this point I am willing to throw them away if only for a few hours of sleep. He has a hard time settling down to sleep. He gets really mad and cries ALOT when he wants to sleep...I usually give in and feed him again just to settle him down, then he barfs because he ate too much. So disposable choochies it is! It did work last night, I just wish I didn't wait so long to give it to him. I am going to boil them after each use and hope for the best...

The boys were off to school yesterday and had great days.

Lucca...who's birthday it is today...really likes his teacher. He says she is really nice...that's why he is being so good...hopefully this will last:)

In knitting news...well, I still haven't picked any up. I did want to share one of my favourite baby knits...now that I have a baby to put them on!

This is a great pattern. Blue Steps baby booties. I really enjoyed knitting them and they were a great way to use up left over sock yarn. I knit my first pair as a gift, and this pair for my baby! The fit is fantastic for newborns. They are just starting to look a little small. I love that they don't come off when he is moving his feet all around. All the socks I have for newborns come off and most look too big anyway. These are perfect, and as you can see, he's got a lot of wear out of them. I will make more but go up a weight in yarn to fit him this next month.

That's it for now...nap time!

Excitement in the air...

2010-09-06T18:52:00.002-04:00

Tomorrow...tomorrow, I love you, tomorrow, you're only a day away!
Yes, schools in tomorrow and I am sooo excited! Is that wrong? Look, it's been a long summer...hot, prego, with two busy boys in the house...I can't wait to skip away from the school yard:)

I don't think I've knit a stitch in the past couple weeks, we are still getting adjusted. A little battle with thrush, some baby freak outs, mommy the milk machine...there's been little energy for knitting.

I do have some finished projects to show you, if I every shower again, I will get around to modelling them.

The little one, Roman (a few have asked his name) doesn't really like to model yet...he will one day! Here he is in a hat I knit for the hospital.

It is a pumpkin hat pattern, but I call it my blueberry hat...blue is a much better colour for him!

Here is the official one week photo...

I promise this won't turn into a baby blog...but he is the focus right now:)
Thank you all so much for the congratulatory wishes!
More knitting content this week, now that I will have a little time!

My favourite FO so far this year...

2010-08-26T15:23:00.002-04:00

I've finished up a couple of knitting projects, finally. But this is my favourite and he is my latest finished object...

Started: Sometime in late November 2009
Finished: August 20, 2010 7:31p.m. (just over 3 hrs after my water broke!)
Adjustments: None, he is perfect! 8lbs 5oz, 20" long...all ten fingers and all ten toes.

We are tired, and adjusting well. I'm happy to have my energy back...although it comes with a few aches and pains. All worth it...this one is a keeper:)

Accessorizing.

2010-08-03T14:53:00.003-04:00

The needles are full lately. They aren't always being used, but I seem to be filling them up!

In this last month of pregnancy I've thankfully been getting small bursts of energy. Sadly this energy and concentration has not been used for knitting or spinning...more like rearranging the furniture, "stylizing" bookcases (like that needs to be done before the baby is born), reorganzing clothing/yarn/cupboards, cleaning, super cleaning, super duper cleaning (totally unnecessary)and weeding the garden. I think the only thing I haven't done is the garage...and I have no intention of doing it...well, not today.

I have managed to knit a little inbetween all of this (as well as when I'm playing words with friends, which is highly addictive).

This morning's evidence.

Newborn hats.
I suddenly remembered the sad tube of material tied with curling ribbon used on my boys at birth. Understandably, the hospitals don't have nicely handknit hats to give all the babies...but I should! I have been playing with some oddments of yarn to come up with the perfect one. There are some cute patterns out there. I made a couple of these, but obviously not in pumpkin colours. I've also come up with my own little birth beanie simple design. I'll post the pattern soon for those who want it. This one is currently on the needles. It needed either a handspun yarn...or something more rustic looking. I am using up some classic elite Moorland from my Redhook Sweater. I'll post pictures of the baby wearing them as soon as he pops out!

Dad's Birthday socks are finally on the needles.

I needed a small travelling project and it was time for socks! I am a little behind on these, as I am every year, with his birthday being last month. I thought that this was ok, being summer and all. Who wears wool socks in the summer...well, he does. At our last beach outing he had them on...with runners...and pants...oh dad.
Anyway, ribbed socks are the best choice for dad. They stay up without being too tight on his legs. He also has voiced a love for handknit socks because they don't scrunch up his toes like store bought ones do...he having size 14 feet.
So, I just started some toe up, with ribbing and a little cable up the sides for interest. So far, so good.

I've also got some lace on the needles. I just had to cast on for The Brandywine Shawl after seeing Sue's at a Friday night knit and chat.

I'm using some alpaca that I picked up last year at Rhinebeck. It is working up just beautifully.

I just need some project monogamy so that I can finish something up!

A baby gift!

2010-07-23T09:31:00.003-04:00

Being a mother of boys, I have really noticed the lack of cute clothing as compaired to what you can get for girls. Yes, if you go to the high-end-boutique-like-kids-clothing-stores you could probably score a dapper outfit for your little men...but the average kids clothing store makes t-shirts and cargos for boys to wear. Mind you, they get to a certain age and that is pretty much all they are willing to wear...I've given up on the white shirts already. Every now and then I will try getting them into what I consider a cool looking shirt...but if it has a collar forget it. So I look forward to "dressing up" this new baby...he won't be able to voice a complaint for a while:)

Vests are the perfect little layering piece for boys. Wouldn't you know that I recieved one in the mail for the new baby! The most thoughtful, and extremely talented, Grumperina sent us the most adorable vest.

I love the colours and especially love the yarn! It is absolutely perfect. Notice the buttons...very smart. This helps get it over the baby's head. I think that her thoughts on sizing are correct...most likely he'll be sporting this around a year old. You can read all about the vest in her post here.

I will definitely be showing you a photo of him wearing it. It's difficult to truely appreciate the knit unless it is being modeled!
Thank you so much Kathy!

FYI I must confess, in true knitterly fashion, I immediately turned it inside out to check out the finishing. It's absolutely what you would expect from Kathy...perfection;)

Now, there are a couple more handknit/spun presents for the new baby from another very talented knitter. I've also been doing a little knitting myself! More to come soon.

Jada in Brown.

2010-07-08T16:12:00.001-04:00

A shrug is something anyone can wear. Big, small, short, tall or even pregnant! It's like a great pair of shoes...it will always fit, even if you ate a little too much!
So what better than to knit to make yourself feel a little better?

Started: May 5, 2010
Finished: June 20, 2010
Yarn: Rowan Lenpur Linen. Colour 570 (brown). 9 skeins for the large.
Pattern: Jada by Sarah Hatton from The Lenpur Linen Collection.
Adjustments: None, knit as written. Do make note of the yardage required. Even though my gauge was correct and I was using the yarn it was written for, I ran out.

This was actually knit for a store sample...which will eventually come home to me. It's a little warm right now for me to wear anything other than a tank top. You can have a good look at it at Shall We Knit in New Hamburg.
I know I will get a lot of use out of it. I wear tanks all year long. Just throw this over a tank for fall, no problem. It will actually be great for breast feeding as well, offering a bit of privacy for the baby to eat;)

The pattern is well written. It has a simple lace stitch to it, which is easily memorized. It eventually turned into my mindless tv watching knit. The main piece is pretty large, like knitting a baby blanket that you sew up and add some ribbed cuffs and bands to.

The Lenpur Linen yarn is pretty interesting. It is 75% Lenpur and 25% Linen.
Linen we are pretty familiar with. Beautiful, durable...a luxurious fiber that keeps you cool in warm weather. It is a vegetable fiber, from flax, a bast fiber taken from the stalk of the plant. It is easily dyed and softens but doesn't loose colour when washed. Yes, it does wrinkle but it presses easily. Like cotton, it has poor elasticity and does not spring back readily.
Lenpur...is also a plant fiber. It comes from white fir wood. Yup, it is a cultivated wood fiber! It is surprisingly soft to the touch. Garments made of Lenpur are thermoregulatory, anti-odor and absorbent. Another perfect fiber for warm weather.
So what does this mean to the knitter? Well, this blend is perfect for spring and summer knits. The drape is wonderful, perfect for shrugs, shawls, scarves, wraps, summer shells, whatever! It knits ups really nicely. Although there is no elasticity, I didn't have a problems with my wrists or elbows like I sometimes do after knitting with cotton. The look of the fabric is much more luxurious than cotton. I sometimes avoid cotton because of that dishcloth look...you don't need to worry about that with Rowan's Lenpur Linen. The colours are nice deep hues and don't look faded.
The washing instructions are pretty specific:
Dry clean or hand wash in soapflakes; do not soak; cool rinse; do not wring; short spin; do not leave wet; reshape and dry flat away from sunlight; use a damp pressing cloth.
Ok, sounds like it is high maintenance. Well, I gave it a quick bath in eucalan, rolled it in a towel to get rid of most of the water and then reshaped it on my blocking board. I pinned it here and there to the measurements. Once dried it looked great. It softened up and actually looked freshly pressed...not crunchy. I did press out the fold line (it was folded in half on the blocking board) before photographing.

My only complaint is it sheds these little hair like fibers on you while you are knitting with it. I tend to wear white, so it was really visible on me. I'll let you know, now that it has been washed, if it does it with wear.
So, would I use this yarn again? Yes! Without hesitation.

By the way, thank you for all of your encouragement with the preganacy. I know that I am not the first woman in the world to be pregnant...every person that has ever lived came from a woman. It's kind of incredible if you think about it. Just look at the thousands of people you see in a day...they all came from a mother who carried them around for 40 weeks.
Some experiences are good and some are not. That is life...I know. Thank you for listening and for the empathy...I promise to stop complaining soon.

Like in 7 weeks, 3 days, four hours...;)

Force Knitting.

2010-06-24T09:29:00.002-04:00

Is the mojo back, well no. But I am trying...forcing it. I actually have finished up a few things and cast on for more. Are there photos...no. There is a mobility problem lately.
You see, my sciatica is trying to kill me. It could happen, death by sciatica. This is the third day of it and the second of a pretty much sleepless night. I have resorted to extra strength tylenol ( I am not normally popping any pills while pregnant ). Hopefully todays doc appointment will bring me some relief.
He is a fantastically kind and knowledgeable doctor. He understands my humour...but he is a he. He'll never actually carry a baby.
I love how doctors ask how you are feeling. HA!
Let's see...
My sciatica is currently trying to kill me. I can't sit, stand, lay down or bend.
I have indigestion...reflux, burning everynight...just from a sip of water.
Because of this indigestion, I need to try and sleep sitting up, which doesn't work. This puts pressure on my sciatica and there is no sleep involved.
I am fat. I look down at my body and wonder who that is.
I can't walk up a flight of stairs without getting winded. I feel extremely out of shape and would really love to be able to go for a run.
There is a vein bursting out of my right leg...it looks gross and travels all the way up. Yes, I mean all the way up.
You know those veins in the hands of serious weightlifters...well my boobs look like they have been weightlifting. Attractive!
Hemorrhoids. Nuff said.
TMI. I know, I'll stop there.

Other than that I feel super fantastic!

We were just chatting about that first child feeling at knit and chat the other morning. The joys, the wonderment, that pregnancy was so wonderful...experiencing growing another human being. By the third, it doesn't seem so joyous! Just give me the baby, I'll do much better when he is on the other side:)
I tend to complain this one...but I know how lucky I am to be able to experience this. His room should be complete this weekend and I can just sit back and relax all summer. 9 1/2 more weeks to go...but who's counting;)

Ok, so knitting.

I've been working away on Jada with Rowan lenpur linen yarn. I ran out of yarn on the bottom ribbing...with a few rounds to go of nearly 400 sts. It's finally finished up and blocking...hopefully I'll have some pictures later this week to show you.
There has been some more dabbling in double knitting...with a new pattern on it's way shortly.
Currently I am working on Aeolian Shawlette (from Knitty) in Tanis' mulberry silk. Gorgeous! Of course last night I screwed up three rows back with an extra yarn over. I'll look at that today to see if I can repair it and fix the gauge without ripping it back.

I may be force knitting...but I'm still at it!

I'm pregnant, I am allowed to complain.

2010-05-26T13:47:00.002-04:00

Ok, so this has nothing to do with knitting. I'll try to come up with a knitting photo to throw in somewhere...

I complain alot, especially lately...pregnancy brings that out in you. I just have a hard time understanding people and how their brains work. People make really bad choices...and then you would think that others would learn from these mistakes...but no, they don't.

Take for instance fireworks. I don't get the whole "let's go set off some fireworks" thinking. I don't understand why they are legal to sell to anyone who wants to light one up...doesn't make sense. Are people not injured while doing this...especially because they seem to always have a beer in one hand and a lighter in the other. The Canadian memorial day holiday was this past weekend, better known as the May 2-4 weekend. Evidently this is when everyone stocks up on their fireworks to annoy all their neighbours. Here in my lovely neighbourhood, they set them off in the back AND front yards. Daylight or twilight...doesn't matter...the bigger the bang the more enjoyable. Especially when you are trying to watch the final episode of LOST...I love the background noises of gun shots out your window. Those of us who are not drinking beer don't seem to find these fireworks as entertaining.
Why don't you save the money you would have spent on the beer and the fireworks and fly to Disney and see real pyrotechnics...instead of annoying your pregnant neighbours from 8pm until midnight.

Just in case you have more faith in people than I do...here is another example of complete and utter stupidity.
I was on my way into the bank yesterday morning when I notice a car parked in the handicap spot with a baby seat in the front seat. Yes, very stupid. It has been proven that children in car seats are safest in the back seat. Well, that wasn't even the stupid part....THERE WAS A BABY IN THE CAR SEAT! Yes, that's right. Some complete idiot left an infant in the car, in the heat, with the windows done up (not that a cracked window would make them any smarter) in the mall parking lot. I couldn't believe my eyes. I did a double take and when I realized what I saw, I walked back to the car in complete disbelief. The baby was sleeping and I saw it move it's head. I knew exactly what was going on...some idiot went into the bank machine area and left their child in the car. I run to the mall doors and there was no idiot at the bank machine. I run back to the car and pull out my phone and start to dial the police when the IDIOT comes out of the mall. He was starring me down so I knew it was him...and started screaming at him...yes, picture the pregnant lady throwing a fit in the middle of the parking lot. He didn't care. He actually was getting pretty upset with me telling me to mind my own business and "he could do whatever he wants, just like I can do whatever I want." Yeah, that was what I was dealing with. I suddenly was fearing my safety...this guy was pretty scary looking. He sped off in the car...and in all that I never got his license plate. I feel so guilty about this, I could have taken a photo of it...but it was just all so unbelievable. I spotted a mall cop and gave him a description of the vehicle, in case he was going to park somewhere around the mall...and go shopping while the child is in the car.
So, not only am I writing this to voice my complaint in regards to some idiots who live here...but to inform those of you who do not know what the consequences of doing this would be.
15 minutes is all it takes to kill a child left in a hot car...window open or not.
Here you can find the Canadian public safety warning.
There are actual laws against leaving your child in a car unattended for even a minute. Hot or cold weather, it is illegal.
Lock your vehicles because many unattended children get into unlocked parked cars (no joke, search it online) and get seriously injured or die.
Install your car seats correctly and in the back seat of your vehicle. (many people I see driving around with the baby car seat handle up, it usually needs to be in the down position to lock it into the base)
Be smart...and more observant as I...I should have called the police anyway with his plate number...he will probably do it again.
I need to move.

FYI mall parking lots and casinos are the most common area where people leave their children in cars...can you believe that!

Rowan Kids Jackson

2010-05-05T08:30:00.001-04:00

Denim yarn. Love it or hate it.

It's sometimes hard enough to figure out size and get gauge for your project...adding in shrinking the finished garment to size is enough to scare off most knitters.
After all your work, you then have to put the finished garment in the washer AND dryer and hope it comes out in one piece.
Well, this knitter is here to tell you that it is not as difficult as it sounds.

I won't lecture you on the importance of swatching. I will be the first to admit I don't swatch for things like socks...but sweaters are a must. ESPECIALLY if you need a before and after washing gauge. I did have difficulty getting gauge on my swatch, but that was all my fault. I should have cast on more than the 4" because my gauge does loosen up on larger pieces. Knowing this, I went with the tighter gauge (yes I made two swatches and washed both) and was fine. I am quite satisfied with the finished garment...

Started: April 6, 2010
Finished: May 3, 2010
Yarn: Rowan denim colour #65 dark blue. I knit the 8-10 size which called for 8 skeins, but ended up needing a 9th to make the neckbands.
Pattern: Jackson by Sarah Hatton in the new Rowan Kids book.
Adjustments: None. I knit as written. The pattern is easy to follow.

The style of the sweater is longer sleeves...but I think they are a little too long. I also knit the 8-10 size for Lucca to wear in the fall...but it fits now. He is average size and wears a size 8...so you may want to knit a bigger size than the child wears.
He looks so cute in this sweater. The denim really softened up after washing and feels quite comfortable. (no complaints from him, and trust me he would have told me right away).

I haven't knit anything for the boys in a long time. He picked out the pattern and the yarn colour, so I know he will wear it.

He is especially excited that it is off to Shall We Knit for display and will most likely make it to the Downtown Knit Collective this weekend in Toronto!

Thank you all for you kind comments on my sewing and the little garter yolk cardigan. To answer a question, the bag does "stand up" on it's own due to all the interfacing and the peltex!

Blue buttons!

2010-05-04T11:18:00.002-04:00

There has been lots of knitting and sewing for me lately. I wouldn't say my mojo is really back in full force, yet, but it's trickling in. I've just been really lazy about blogging it all!

First up is a little sewing.
I've done some sewing back in the day but with little knowledge or skill. I get by with following pattern instructions and the sewing hints given in them...usually accompanied by lots of frustration.
In surfing the net I came across this Amy Butler sewing book. Such cute patterns for babies. I decided to tackle a diaper bag. Luckily many knitters have interests and skills in sewing...and luckily I have a great knitting friend who not only has these skills but she also has a plethera (yes, many, many, many) of sewing machines:)
Off to a local quilting store a few of us went...to find that perfect fabric.

I treated myself to some Amy Butler fabric, in gender neutral colours. I bought everything on the list...not even knowing what half of it was...and made plans for sewing!
Under Lise's watchful eye and learning some of her skills, I came out with this:

It is the perfect size for baby things...and some knitting things! Some nice big pockets to hold diapers...and yarn.

To finish it all off...I had left some extra fabric lying around Lise's house...and the next time I was over I magically had a set!

She made me a matching little knitting project bag! Thanks Lise!

I have also managed to finish up a little baby sweater. A simple knit in a basic colour. Every baby needs a neutral cardigan in their wardrobe.

Started: Feb 25, 2010
Finished: March 2010
Pattern: Garter Yolk Baby Cardi by Jennifer Hoel
Yarn: Debbie Bliss baby cashmerino in beige/stone. I made the 6 months size and I believe I used a little of a third ball.
Adjustments: I chose to knit a garter button band, which worked out perfectly. Of course you noticed the buttons...

Cute little blue bus buttons...yes blue. Another boy!

On Hold socks.

2010-04-23T16:20:00.002-04:00

Sometime back...between the last post and this post...I managed to finish up Mom's birthday socks.

Pattern: On Hold socks found in Socks From The Toe Up by Wendy Johnson
Yarn: Shelridge Farms soft touch ultra 370yrd of Peacock.
Adjustments: None to speak of. I knit the smaller size, turned the heel for mom's size foot and ribbed at the top until I ran out of yarn. My choice of cast off lately, for toe up socks, is Jenny's stretchy cast off.

They turned out just perfectly. I really love knitting socks from the toe up...at least for us large footed ones. You just knit until you are out of yarn. The colour is so beautiful, so mom. This was the first time working with Shelridge Farms yarn, and definitely not the last! It has beautiful stitch definition and feels wonderful to the touch.

I've got a little finishing...like sewing on buttons...before I reveal some other finished knits. I've also been doing a little sewing...more to come!

A sock cure.

2010-03-22T09:44:00.002-04:00

You know the best project when the mojo is low...socks. Of course, this required a trip to Shall We Knit for some solid coloured sock yarn.
I have this problem with sock yarn. I see so many pretty colours and colour repeats...sock eye candy. I buy it, bring it home, cast on a pair, then rip. I love looking at those pretty sock yarns, but always lean toward knitting textured socks. The two don't mix, I've tried. So the sock yarn stash needed a little enhancing. I picked up some lorna's laces Shepherd Sock in "Cookies Deep Dark Secret" a gorgeous purple/blue, perfect for Cookie A's textured sock patterns.
Lynn had to show me the Berrocco Ultra Alpaca Fine in this beautiful green...had to go home with it.
Lastly some local Shelridge Farm soft touch ultra in a Peacock Blue...perfect for Mom's birthday socks.

Time to dig out some sock knitting books. It seems that everytime I open up the Socks from the Toe Up by Wendy D. Johnson, the "On Hold" socks call out to me...so I knew I was casting on;)

(It's overcast today so the picture doesn't do the "peacock" colour justice. They look too grey here.) I love the lace pattern up the front of the sock, it is just beautiful. They're knitting up quickly, and good thing because the parental units will be coming back north just in time for Easter...that gives me a couple weeks to complete them. I don't see a problem there!

Also on the needles is a little teddy bear sweater.

It is another steeking project, that will hopefully inspire a class in the upcoming future!

Pod of Cetaceans Cardigan

2010-03-02T13:05:00.002-05:00

Thank you all so much for the congratulatory comments...I needed a little of that. Glad to see I am not the only one who has such a spread between children...or am doing this at a "later" age in life:)

Let the parade of baby knits begin!

First up is the Pod of Cetaceans Cardigan

I wanted to be sure to stick with neutral sex colours. I know, it's blue, but many girls look lovely in blue...I consider blue and green neutral colours. If the baby is a girl, I'll adorn this little cardigan with the some little flower buttons.

Started: Feb. 21, 2010
Finished: Feb. 27, 2010
Yarn: Cascade 220 2x2404 (blue), 1x9430(green) and 1x8010 (cream). I have plenty left over for a matching hat!
Pattern: Pod of Cetaceans cardigan by Elinor Brown. I knit the 12-18 months.
Adjustments: None. I knit it as written. Steeking and all!

I was originally going to knit a 6 months size, but couldn't get past the worsted weight yarn for such a small garment. Also the steeking hems would be pretty thick on the little cardigan, so I decided to go with a size for the next fall/winter, 12-18 months.
Cascade worked out nicely. It is not the "hairiest" of yarns for steeking, but it did the job.

I used some 4 ply in the stash for reinforcing the steek area. I am not the best at crochet. I wish it was more even looking...but it does the trick just fine.

Using a red to baste the steeking line was of great help when crocheting.

Not so scary!

I used an overcast stitch to tack back the steek hem. There wasn't a perfect colour in the stash, so I simply seperated the plys of the cascade main colour to sew it down.

One thing that bothers me are my weaved in floats. With the cascade being so big in gauge you need to weave in every 3-4 sts. I might have left 5 here or there but that is quite a long float. With the whale's body length you need to weave in on the body...and I can see it puckering a bit. Not a big thing, but something to think about when using a worsted weight yarn for colourwork.

I love this little sweater! It now awaits the sex of the baby before I add buttons. No need to rush...still plenty of time to put them on.

The next chapter...

2010-02-26T11:50:00.002-05:00

My mojo's back.
Finally! I am human again.
You see, I didn't tell you the cliff hanger at the end of the last chapter. It was just too much...so shocking...sort of a bump in the road...it took my knitting mojo. But now that I have made it through the worst of it...we can read on to the next chapter.
I know I have said that "the kitchen is closed". I am done, done, done. Well...
I guess I was wrong. I didn't offically close the kitchen by removing the appliances.

It seems there is an italian bun in my oven.
Yup, that's right.
A BABY!
Hmmmm. 37 yrs old. The youngest is now 6...that's quite a spread. I really wasn't sure about this. It took three months and an ultrasound to make it real...there's no denying it!

I must say I am quite excited to knit for a "knitters baby". I can knit something out of a handwashable wool! There is an appreciation here. This baby will be decked out in handknits. I was only a beginner when the boys were born...oh think of the possiblities now!

Booties!

Cardigans!

Cute Motifs!

Oh my!

Look out...I'M BACK!

Where's the mojo.

2010-02-02T14:14:00.003-05:00

There's not too much knitting going on in these parts...my mojo is gone. I've been looking for it, but it seems to be hiding.
I ordered an Amy Butler sewing book today...not sure why, haven't really done too much sewing lately other than repairs. My machine sucks too...so Lise we need to have a sew along. I need to get some of those Amy Butler fabrics first:)
I'm too lazy to take photos...so here is a little funny my sister sent me.

Oh if I had a nickle for everytime this actually happens in my house;)

Ginormous Cabled Cowl

2010-01-02T15:33:00.002-05:00

Ginormous...for sure.
So many things come to mind...eating ginormous amounts of food...feeling ginormous....the fact that I am in my yoga pants (not for yoga...but because I am sure that nothing else will fit!)
The ginormous amount of lego that has been built over the past week...well over 5000 pieces.
The ginormous amount of knitting and spinning that I have done in 2009 and plan to do in 2010.
How ginormously thankful I am for my knitting friends who have kept me company knitting, hooked me on spinning, employed me - giving me purpose again, and included me on their knitterly (and non-knitterly) outings.
You bunch of enablers;)

Incase you don't have anything ginormous in your life...here is a pattern I've been meaning to post about!

Ginormous Cabled Cowl

You can seriously knit this in one night, and what a fantastic gift it makes.

It uses big fat (ginormous) US#11/8mm needles and some ginormous yarn.
I knit the sample up using one ball (207 yrds/189.3m) of Lang Mille Colori Big, colour #5188.

The colours are gorgeous and it knits up beautifully. It's even 50% acrylic - incase you gift it out to a non knitter...it shouldn't felt on them.
If you are a beginner knitter, this is a great project to try your hand at cables and working in the round.

The pattern is $4.00 US and can be downloaded here on ravelry and if you are not a member you should be able to purchase here buy now
As always, contact me if you are having problems, I am here to help!

Happy Knitting...and Happy New Year!

BPS

2009-12-30T17:48:00.003-05:00

It seems Christmas has come and gone...without a single word from the blog. Well, this should come as no surprise by now, I have been some what of a
blog-post-slacker. (BPS)
I wish I could say that this upcoming year I will try to improve this, but let's be seriously...it's not gonna happen. I try and try, but with knitting, spinning, teaching, the kids, a little work, the house...it is way down on the priority list. Apologies.
There has been quite a bit of knitting lately and I will try to cover it over the next few posts...
First up is a little dabbling in Double Knitting. I love that double knitting is reversible...perfect for a scarf. For some reason I refer to this technique as an "old lady" one. Not sure why...I picture little old ladies sitting around double knitting hats...a little crazy, but that is just what I picture:)
Brought to my attention by one of the knitting friends, I decided to cast on for the Double Knit Rainbow Scarf.

Now, if you are new to the technique, you may want to start with another project (like one in the round...one of those old lady hats) before you tackle this. Trust me on this.
With noro in mind I origionally cast on with Kureyon. Nope. Not working. I played with the chart and cast on again. No. (notice I was listening to the inner knitter people...listening!!) The next attempt was with Noro DK lite...this went on for a while. There was a lot of ripping and some chart revising...but I finally made it work. Be sure to choose two different colourways or start the second ball a couple colours apart from the first. You don't want two stands of the same colour to ever cross...trust me on this one to.

Started: October 24, 2009
Finished: November 8, 2009
Pattern: Double Knit Rainbow Scarf by Eline Sanders. Here on Ravelry.
Yarn: Noro DK lite balls. (can be done with 5 if you are willing to rip noro apart...that's another story...Noro and I don't always get along.)It is 7" wide and 84" long
Adjustments:My gauge is 15 sts and 20 rows in double knit on US#8/5.0mm needles. I rewrote the chart and knit it as written. I knit seven repeats of the chart. For your knitting pleasure...

The scarf currently resides as Shall We Knit...and the double knit classes are filling up. If you haven't learned this technique yet, it will blow your mind...trust me on this one...trust me:)
I'll work on the BPS...I'll try.

Seems I've got some explaining to do!

2009-12-14T18:27:00.004-05:00

So....whatcha been doin'?
Mouse over the photo for more details....

Ok, ok, that's is not all I've been doing. Plus it is still not done! A little more paint, a dishwasher, stove, microwave, light valance and a backsplash are all still needed...but you get the idea.
I've also been working a little helping out a friend and volunteering at the school...and entertaining...and preparing for and teaching knitting classes...there has been very little time for blogging.
But, there has been time for a little knitting....and SPINNING!!!!
Yes, my DH got me a little anniversary gift back in November...

I've also been knitting a few Christmas gifts...details to follow.
I will warn you the Christmas knitting list is not as the years before. It is much smaller, and to the point!

Rhinebeck Goodies.

2009-11-03T12:31:00.002-05:00

I know the photo is horrible...but it's so funny to me...Lise getting in her fiber!

Ok, it's not really fiber she's eating. We were all eating this maple syrup cotton candy. When you entered the food building this waft of sweet smelling goodness pulled you immediately over to the source! We had to have it. But it does look like she is about to take a bite of some nice roving:)

Ok. You've read the stories of our Rhinebeck adventures...now here are the purchases!

750 yrds of worsted weight yarn from Briar Rose was my first purchase. I have no projects in mind for any of the purchases...simply beautiful things that caught my eye.

Sport Alpaca from Times Remembered in SlateHill NY.

I picked up 3 skeins of this handspun Shetland wool from Fiber Connection.

Alpaca Wool Blend roving from Flaggy Meadow Fiber Works for spinning. Yeah that's right...spinning yarn!!
I also got a huge bump of cormo wool roving from Blackberry Hill Farm. That's for my practicing!

These I love. This fabulous artist Conni Togel had beautiful canvases of sheep, "in all their quirkiness, silliness and cuteness". I had to get a few prints for that craftroom that I will have one day...

We searched high and low for a yarn guide...and finally we hit the jackpot at Susans fiber shop! We just about cleaned her out. I needed to try it for double knitting. I was having a problem with my left hand purling. My gauge was so different than my right hand's knitting. It worked! You can see a little video of me working with it here. No, I am not really showing you how to double knit...I just wanted to show how efficient a yarn guide can be. It's my first video, go easy on me!
That's it! I can't wait till next year...I am marking my calendar!

Rhinebeck

2009-10-20T09:28:00.002-04:00

We did it...we went to Rhinebeck!!
What a trip it was. The drive was great, lively conversation...you could feel the excitement for our little yarn getaway, beautiful colours (they are ahead of us a little in the changes of fall) and some shopping. As excited as I was to be able to try on shoes (yes, 10.5/11 is a rare size here in canada) I couldn't find what I was looking for. Next year, I'll be stopping at a Ninewest Outlet:)

Karen has gracious blogged quite a bit about our trip. Head over to see some great photos and read of our adventures.
We stayed in Kingston NY which was right across the bridge from Rhinebeck, about a 10 minute drive...if that. Lise was the coordinator and did a fantastic job...a target pretty much in our parking lot! We were able to walk over so that I could load up on Super Mario pjs...what a hit at home and some yellow dial for dad!

Karen, seen getting ready for some wool shopping!

The sheep and wool festival was fantastic. The idea is very similar to what we do here with the Downtown Knitters Frolic in toronto and the Knitter Fair in Kitchener...without the livestock...and all those food vendors....and of course Rhinebeck is on a much larger scale.
There were so many "farms" who had the most wonderful fiber for sale...what a treat.
The vendors were set up in huge tents and buildings...which was nice to sort of be outdoors walking through it all. It was a little nippy, nothing handknits wouldn't solve:)
The food was so yummy. Lucky for me my fair partners had read all about the best places to hit. Unfortunately the chicken pot pie line was just tooooo long to wait in and we hadn't even seen the artichokes. Day two, we were a little more successful in that regards!

I think the trick is to get the artichokes and pot pie all in before noon!
Lucky for us the snow never came and the rain was just a little sprinkle.
We did end up attending both days, which really wasn't necessary. I could have done it in one day...but it is nice to go back and walk through to have a second look. There was much less of a crowd on Sunday. Mind you if you like it, buy it, because it won't be there the second day...lesson learned.

So, what did I buy...

Redhook

2009-10-14T11:39:00.003-04:00

I will try to do this pattern justice in this post...there are so many things about it I love.
Mostly, though, I love how much I want to wear this sweater...

Started: I don't know really...in September.
Finished: September 29, 2009
Pattern: Redhook by Jared Flood. Found in Made in Brooklyn.
Yarn: Classic Elite Moorland, a gorgeous blend of mohair, alpaca and merino. 8 balls of colour 2574
Adjustments: None. I was not sure about the sizing. I would normally knit a med, but that would have no ease. The pattern is made for positive ease...and you know how I feel about that...but it wouldn't have big bulky sleeves and I could wear this open with a fitted shirt underneath so I don't feel like I am wearing a big, bulky and unflattering sweatshirt. So I opted for the large which would give me about 4" of positive ease. The medium would also work for me, for a different look.

So, Redhook, how do I love thee...let me count the ways.

1. You are knit in one piece up to the armholes...little seaming for those who shutter at the thought (and if you do, have no fear...guess who is teaching a course next weekend on finishing!)...although it does make for a whole lot of st st...bitter sweet.
2. You have clever short row shaping instead of regular side seam increases. Hidden little Cat Bordhi wraps...so beautiful executed.

3. You have the most perfect short row shoulders...a technique I had yet to apply to my sweaters. Now I can put a notch in the belt of another brilliant technique to use.
4. You have the most perfectly invisible shoulder seam. No seam at all...due to live stitches and grafting. Your wonderful designer knew that any seam here would take away from the perfect little short ribbed sleeves. Clever.

5. Your sleeve stitches are picked up and worked down with those lovely short rows. Brilliant.

6. You have a beautiful button band and shawl collar...short rows again. Those stretchy little button holes are every so perfect.

7. You are adorned with the most perfect of vintage buttons. Black with a little interest in the profile...gorgeous.

8. Lastly, and most importantly, you look fabulous. Your drape is so lovely...the envy of most sweaters. Your styling is just perfect for hiding that big turkey dinner...not a muffin top in site.

I know you secretly enjoyed the love handling at last nights guild meeting.
I "heart" you Redhook.

If you are lucky enough to head to Rhinebeck this year...my Redhook is coming with me:)

Overload

2009-10-11T09:13:00.003-04:00

I think I have been avoiding posting because I have way to much to post about. I just have an overload of knit info and finished objects...and what appears to be no time to post about it.
So, I'm just diving right in.

I finally made my way with camera in hand to Shall We Knit to photograph the Solstice Wrap. I posted the finished knit pictures here...and left Karen to bravely felt and block it. She did a beautiful job, have a look...

The Alchemy Sanctuary, which is a silk wool blend, is the part that felted. These strips pulled in to slightly gather in the silk sections. The silk sections did not felt but blocked out so perfectly.

The lace edging sets it off beautifully. Great job Karen...for that price tag, I am glad you did the hard work:)

I better fit a new finished object in this post.
Dad's birthday socks, a few months late...but finished.

Started: July 31, 2009
finished: September 16, 2009
Yarn: 1 ball of Zitron Trekking XXL
Pattern: Madder Ribbed Sock by Nancy Bush in Knitting Vintage Socks.
Adjustments: Let's say I was inspired by the Madder Ribbed Pattern, it is not exact. I knit toe up and finished when I ran out of yarn. The toe and heel are Cat Bordhi style and the bind off is one of my new favourites....Jeny's suprisingly stretchy bind off. You must try this if you have not already!

More to come...lots...and a few suprises...like an upcoming road trip with some knit friends to Rhinebeck!!!!

Remembering...

2009-10-01T12:13:00.002-04:00

It's hard to believe it has been five years. Part of the reason I started knitting was to sort through the grief. Keep myself busy.
But today you can't help but remember.
Maureen called me at this very moment.

This is a photo of John and I...cropped from a bigger family photo. I thought this would put a smile on my face...just look at the hair! That was 1997...big hair was in...right?!

John always made you laugh.

I miss his smile and his goofy sense of humour.
Today is the day to remember and celebrate the unbelievable person he was.

And I am back up and running!

2009-09-29T11:52:00.002-04:00

Thank you all for your ideas and mac-tabulous encouragement! I have the laptop back up and running...for now...with a bigger hard drive. I will be backing up more regularly...thank goodness for ravelry, facebook and flicker...some files and pictures are still in my life:)
I am looking further into your suggestions for retrieval from the old hard drive...and shopping around for a mac...so that I am ready for when the time is right. Sadly, a fridge trumps the mac...and a stove...and an ikea kitchen. I'll put it on my Christmas list.

There has been knitting...and fabulous knitting if I must say so myself.

Once complete...blocked and with buttons...I will have a more in depth talk with you about this pattern. I will say I love it. I love the construction, the short rows and the button holes. But mostly, I love the preliminary try on's...

Just need to sew in the ends, block it and apply buttons (which I have ordered from etsy...we'll see how they work when they arrive).

Jared, you are a genius.

It's all gone...

2009-09-25T19:32:00.002-04:00

My laptop hard drive. Gone.
All of it...pictures, patterns...yup.

Have I backed anything up? Well, not long ago, way before the summer I backed up photos. All the family photos since then....gone.

POOF.

Let that be a lesson to everyone, like myself, who don't regularly back up important files....it could happen to you.
So here I am, in the dungeon on the desk top that spontaneously shuts down when you are working on it...getting my knitblog/ravelry/internet fix.
Sure I have pictures, but the easy-pop-the-card-into-the-laptop-to-upload thingy is not on this contraption, so you have to wait.
I've decided to replace the hardrive, which is the most cost effective choice at the moment. I'm surfing for a mac...refurbished thanks to Karen. I can't wait till I cross to the other side...away from the pc over to mac...
soon my friends...soon.
But for now, take a moment and remember the old hard drive...and what was one it...cause I have no idea.

Let's recap...

2009-09-19T23:58:00.002-04:00

Firstly...the shawl turned out absolutely unbelievably gorgeous. It felted perfectly and blocked out and I saw her draped on a manni at the KW knitters show. I took a horrible picture with my cell phone...it just won't due. I will go out to Shall We Knit this week to photograph it....you NEED to see it finished.

Next up the Terry Fox Run. I did it! I think I am still recovering..but I did it. I stopped in the 4th k to walk a bit and drink some water...but when the 4yr old passed me...I was back at it! I can't believe I ran it and completed the 5k. I am hoping I will like running now?! Well, maybe, atleast it is a little easier now. Thank you all for your support, I look forward to next year. Our family raised over $4000...just think of what next year will bring!

Now the knitting. Dad's socks are complete, but not blocked...waiting for a little package for that;)
What else is on the needles? Jared's Redhook...

This is a little birthday gift I picked out...thanks mom and dad! I have made it through the ribbing, the st st and decreasing...now to the arm holes! Still working on my diagonal ribbed sock...at knit and chats etc. I've knit some mini mittens and have some manly mitts on the go...more to come on that. Things are moving along.

I don't know why I haven't posted on this FO...but here it is!

Pattern: Tweed Baby Blanket by Jared Flood
Yarn: Zara...a beautiful machine washable merino wool. I ended up using 5 balls of the beige and 2 balls of the brown. If following the pattern as written, you would need 6 and 3.
Started: July 31, 2009
Finished: August 11, 2009
Adjustments: Well, I subbed in yarn, and I had problems with yardage. I ended up ripping back the edging and just "making it work" for what I had. It all worked out in the end.

The Zara blocked out wonderfully. It was the perfect blanket for a friends new baby boy:)

So things are slowly getting back to "normal". I am trying to get out to knit and chats...and getting a little knitting done as well. Hopefully I will make more time to blog about it...but for now, it's getting late. I've got a full day tomorrow...maybe we'll chat later in the week:)

Was there any doubt...

2009-09-11T16:15:00.002-04:00

that it would turn out as gorgeous as this??!!??

Pattern: Shibori Solstice from Lost and Found
Yarn: Alchemy Silken Straw (4 skeins of each of the 4 colours) and Alchemy Sanctuary (4 skeins)
Started: August 29, 2009
Finished: September 9, 2009

Yes, I worked into the wee hours many nights and even worked on it in the morning of the day it was to be delivered! But I got it done...it will be quite a show stopper at the Knitters Fair.

Keep in mind these photos are pre felting. Shibori is a method of knitting that has partial felting to it. Sometimes the same fiber is used and objects...like marbles are tied in so that the felting can be manipulated. Other times, as in this example, feltable fibers and non feltable fibers are used. Silk and wool. I can't wait to see it felted and blocked!

This is definitely a one of a kind knit...if you would love to get your hands on one, kits will be available at Shall We Knit.
See you at the fair!

FYI notice the purple is gone from the room! No more purple rug, purple wall and purple flower border...now it just a gorgeous Hazy Skies! Haven't got to window treatments yet, hence the window reflections in the photos behind me:)

Knitting Marathon

2009-09-08T20:24:00.004-04:00

I might have bitten off more than I can chew on this one....

I am feverishly knitting away on a shibori solstice....and there is a deadline. Well, I knew the deadline and agreed to take it on. The big KW knitters fair is on this weekend and this needs to be finished, felted, blocked and dried by saturday morning. So I really should drop this off for felting tomorrow.
TOMORROW!!!
I know, I know, I won't be stoned or shunned from the knitting community if I don't finish...but I need to finish it on time because I'm just like that.
This is knit from alchemy silken straw and alchemy sanctuary. 20 skeins. 20 SKEINS!!! The silken straw is doubled...so it's not so bad.
I love knitting with the sanctuary, it is just a fabulous yarn. A little silk and a little merino, the perfect blend. It just glides across the needles so smoothly...like butter.
The silken straw has gorgeous sheen and drape. It evidently will soften even more with wash and wear. A word of caution though, the plies are kind of just laying together...not really any twist. Use blunt needles so you don't split the plies...trust me on that one.
I am more than three quarters done the border...and it's 8:30 at night...not many knitting hours left.
My husband just says "shouldn't you be knitting?". Hey, my poor little hands need a break!
So, I am just about done this little marathon. 9 days, little sleep, a lot of garter stitch. You all better make your way over to Shall We Knit's booth and ooooohhh and aaaaahhhh....just for me!

Speaking of marathon...this weekend is the Terry Fox Run...and this year I am attempting to run the 5K. My training (yes, I need to train for a 5k, yes, that is very sad) is not going well at the moment, seems I've picked up a head cold (thanks to my nephew Nick, I am pretty sure)...which is moving into my chest. I will attempt to run again tomorrow...of course when my knitting is done:)
If you haven't donated to a great cause this year yet I would love your support! I am running in memory of my sister Maureen who lost her battle with cancer just over 2 years ago.
My donation page is HERE.
If you are out of donations...just think of me and wish me luck! I'll update you next week after the run.

Still here...just grafting away...

2009-08-26T18:42:00.002-04:00

It seems the blog world is changing. Lately many of the bloggers who's blogs I frequent are calling it quits. Moving on to Ravelry, twitter, facebook and such. I am tempted at times to throw the towel in. I realize my post are far and few between, but I am still typing away. I often feel like I have nothing more to say.

I knit it, here it is.

Occasionally there are things that are new to me or things that peek my interest, giving me something to write about.

I am still here, but you can find me on twitter now...I am playing with the microblogging.

My knitting has taken a turn as well. I am knitting alot for Shall We Knit and loving it! I have also agreed to take on some repairs. I was unsure about this move at first...but it is quite stimulating! The latest repair is to an obvious favourite cotton sweater. It is well worn...errr...loved. I really should have taken before pictures. There were a couple dropped stitches and the bottom of the sweater ribbing as well as the cuff ribbing was not really salvageable. There were two routes to take with it. Knit down a rolled cuff and hem or reknit the ribbing and graft it on.

Of course the rolled cuff and hem would be the easiest. Cut and pick away the blue cuff and hem and then put the live stitches on needles. Because it is knit from the bottom up you cannot just then knit down the ribbing and all will be well. It won't match up. You would just knit down in st st and the hem and cuff would be rolled.
The other choice is making it the same as it is. Knit the cuff and hem from the bottom up with a tubular cast on. Then graft that to the sweater. Very time consuming...and ALOT of grafting.
And the winner is....forever grafting!

When the sweater arrives (yes, it was delivered by a man on a motorcycle - Tom - along with some sample yarn and pattern for an upcoming piece) I think to myself...why did I agree to this? Then I start looking at the sweater and imagine how important it is to the owner...for them to spend this money on such a repair.
Look at this challenge!
That is why I have agreed to this! I have to really use all of my knitting knowledge and experience to fix this machine knit sweater!

220 stitches around the hem and 60 stitches on each cuff. That is grafting together 560 stitches...not for the faint of heart.
Oh and 2x2 tubular cast on...yeah...I've never done that. Have no fear, other knitters are there!! Search the web and find, or rediscover, Ysolda. I've never cast on this way before...and the 2x2 is so easy!! I will absolutely be using this technique again.
SEE! A new technique! I love it.

The hem is done...one cuff left to go. A few little fixes in the intarsia (just a little tightening here and there) and pulling some threads through. Your favourite sweater will be back in no time.
Thanks for the challenge:)

More socks...

2009-08-04T12:46:00.002-04:00

I have really had this sock thing lately. I wore holes (like ginormous holes that you cannot possibly repair) in two pair of my socks this winter, so I need to stock up on hand knit socks for me!

Oak ribbed socks

Started: June 20, 2009
Finished: July 14, 2009
Pattern: Nancy Bush's Oak Ribbed socks from Knitting Vintage Socks.

Yarn: This was a treat! The socks were actually knit from a sock blank I hand dyed at Shall We Knit during the knit in public day. The yarn is "Buffy's" from Shelridge farms. It is sooooo soft. This is the first time using her yarns, but I have heard only great things about it. The exact yarn for these blanks will not be widely available, if at all (I think it was some sort of special) but I definitely will knit with shelridge farms yarn again. I had a great time dying the blanks. This is something I will explore more in the future.
Adjustments: I knit these toe up using Judy's magic cast on, Cat Bordhi's increases and heel. All of which are my most favourite techniques that seem to be used in all of my toe up socks!

I have also been working away on many knits.
I have cast on another square for the GAAA.
There is a baby blanket for a friend on the needles.
A pair of socks for Dad...belated birthday gift...that are at a standstill until I check the size on the actual foot.
I have finished one diagonal lace sock and will probably cast on the other tonight.
Lastly, I have finished up another sample knit for Shall We Knit....here is a sneak peak!

Other than that, the kitchen is painted, the toy room has been cleaned (and 1/2 the toys given away!), the yardwork is done, the garage is clean and the laudryroom/furnaceroom is organized. Next up is the masterbedroom...goodbye purple!
I will leave you with this...

Yesterday was a backyard swimming day....and the sun had it's own rainbow. What could be better than that?

Red Hanami Stole

2009-07-31T18:26:00.003-04:00

Dear Cari,

I am so sorry for not posting more consistently. It is true that I have been a very bad blogger this summer. Although you may be tired of looking at my sock post (yes, you boldly hinted to this at Heathers...there were witnesses) I have more socks to show you. I also have expressed my frustrations with my SSK preceeded by a YO. Explaining these thoughts and experiments as well as showing you two more pairs of socks may not be what you are looking for. So, for that reason...and just for you...I will show you this....

The Red Hanami Stole

Started: in June 2009
Finished: in July 2009
Pattern: Hanami Stole by Melanie Gibbons
Yarn: Sundara Yarn silk lace weight (1000yrds) in the colour Red over Toffee.
Adjustments: I did knit one extra repeat of the basket weave and the extra final chart as indicated for lengthening. This gave me the size it was suppose to be!! Guess my gauge was off...yes, I didn't bother checking:) I have enough yarn left over that I could have done a couple more repeats of each...lengthening it even longer...oh well. Everything else was knit as written and charted. This pattern has excellent instructions and is really well written.

I will certainly wear it as a stole...it will be gorgeous with a little black dress.

It will also look great as a scarf....this one is for you Cari!!!! Showered and I even put a flower in my hair to compliment the stole!! All for you!

In this photo Cari, I thought I could also capture the beautiful red beebalm (thanks Patsy...I grow it but can't spell it!) in the backyard...then the sun decided to shine...but you get the idea.

So there you have it. I have been knitting, and camping, and beach bathing, and gardening, and painting, and waterparking it!! Now and I am finally blogging.
Enjoy Cari.
Take your time looking at the photos because I don't know when I will be blogging next:)

Sockin' it to ya!

2009-07-03T21:17:00.004-04:00

Hey, look at me! Two posts in one week...look out people!

I have blog worthy news here.

My new love for blocking tools. How long have I been knitting? Yeah, and have never owned a pair of sock blockers...well...laying the socks out on a towel or blocking board will just not do anymore. Thank you to Patti for scoring these huge good ole wire sock blockers at the sally anne! Of course with her tiny little feet, she had no use for these...and I figured I could take them for my dad's feet. Turns out they are my size (and my hubby's size!)

These Hearty Man Plaid Socks have been done for a while, awaiting blocking. They were a little snug, so I had sock blockers in mind. Now look how pretty they are...all neat and tidy and blocked to the perfect size

Started: April 21, 2009

Finished: May 8, 2009

Pattern: Hearty Man Plaid Socks - Rav it!

Yarn: Lang Jawoll colour aktion ( a blue, grey and tan blend) x1 skein and Regia sock yarn in grey x1 skein.

Adjustments: The pattern is pretty simple. I cast on 72 stitches and didn't put in the seam purl stitch. I left 6 knit stitches inbetween the slip stitches at the back of the leg. I decreased this section down to 4 stitches down the leg, for minor leg shaping. Since the Jawoll came with matching reinforcement thread, I used it for the toe and the heel. In doing this I had to carry the solid grey to the edge of the heel so after turning the heel, it would be at the new start of my rounds for the foot. I also used Cat Bordhi's neat and tidy ssk stitches for the gusset...so pretty!

I really enjoyed knitting these socks, the color change kept my interest. I will be knitting another pair for myself...and maybe some for the boys!

Another pair of beautifully blocked pair of socks. Minty Escher socks. I did order the knit picks sock blockers in large. If the blockers were any smaller they wouldn't work for me...I just made it! I will say I do like the metal blockers better, but knit picks blockers are better than none:)

Started: May 1, 2009

Finished: June 20, 2009

Pattern: Escher Socks from Knitting Socks with Handpainted Yarn.

Yarn: Tannis superwash sock yarn x1 skein. I love this yarn...it is my new favourite.

Adjustments: I knit these toe up because I didn't know how big of a sock I would get out of this yarn. I used Cat Bordhi's increases and heel turning techniques. I think these two techniques will be staples for my sock knitting!

With two pair of socks finished...I had to cast on another pair! Diagonal Lace socks by Wendy D. Johnson. This pattern is in her new book (of which I have yet to purchase!) but this pattern is also available for free on her website.

You may recognize the yarn...I was knitting the Spiraling Masters Coriolis Socks...well...they have been ripped. This lornas laces is much happier in a diagonal lace:)

Let's catch up a bit.

2009-06-29T22:13:00.002-04:00

I made it through the crazy last week of school...we are officially on summer vacation!
The wedding was so wonderful...just like those weddings you see in the movies. I won't get into it all...but just to let the knit and chat ladies know...I did eventually rip those spanks off, but waited until I was in the car...I was never seen hanging out by the bar with my spanks at my ankles;)

I also want to say how sad I was to hear that MJ died. I was a serious fan...especially in the early years. I was one of those girls who sported that single curl...I plastered my bedroom wall with his photos from the teen magazines...and dreamt of our wedding day. I had a little tape recorder with headphones I would wear to bed at night...listening to thriller until I fell asleep. I practised all the dance moves and knew all the words to his songs. I know he went a little wacko...but he was a brilliant artist who will surely be missed.

Ok. So, I have been knitting. Let's catch up.
I finished up the black back cable shell from CYE for Shall We Knit. I was knit in Classic Elite Yarns Cotton Bam Boo...a fabulous yarn. It has such wonderful drape and feels so cool against the skin.

I know the photos aren't the best...I don't have the girls to fill out the front, but here is the back

Anyone near me when knitting it can attest to the drape of this yarn...I made everyone feel it. I really want to make myself a summer tank out of this...just which one?!

I am just knitting away this summer...no rush at all. I have a pair of socks done to show you...I finally blocked a pair that have been finished for a while...I have to rip a pair...and by the weekend I should be finished the pair of socks from my sock blank.

It is the summer of socks!

Ribbed Oak Clematis

2009-06-22T09:12:00.002-04:00

Signs of summer...the sun...the beach days...some light knits...and very little posting. Yes, the posts are few and far between, so I will try to make it worth the read! (I will atleast put in some pretty photos...promise:)

I made a day of World Wide knit in public day...joining the regulars at Shall We Knit for some sock blank dying. This was such a great time! I have so many more ideas after dying one blank and seeing so many other creative ideas. I decided to try a "picture" of something and see how it would knit up. I went with the clematis, growing in the back yard. So brown, for the earth and stems, a denim blue back ground, different greens and a purple flower...

Once steamed (wrapped in saran, in water on a barbeque!) the colours kind of blended a bit...but the idea is still there. I think I would like to have more control over the colour with finer tipped dispensers and brushes...next time. For those who are not familiar with blanks, it is two strands of yarn held together and knit on a machine into big flat rectangles. Now I can pull it apart and knit a matching pair of socks...brilliant!
FYI I really didn't dress for dying...so I grabbed an apron before I left. I know, I am so smart. No dye touched me. We went to grab a coffee after the dying session and of course my lid falls off and spills coffee down the front of my cream shirt. Yeah.

I wanted to knit something simple from the blank...no texture...but not a plain st st sock. So I decided on Nancy Bush's Oak Ribbed sock from Knitting Vintage Socks. Simple and you can still see the beautiful colour.

You can't really see the toe here...but the browns are gorgeous. I am really loving the way it knits up. The purples are just starting to work their way into the leg. LOVE IT!
I really love the denim blue with the brown...definitely a combination I will be using again.
You will be seeing more sock blanks here...I am finally feeling those creative juices flowing.

There is so much more to tell you about...but not enough time now. I need to get through this end of school week...a wedding on the weekend...and getting settled with the kids home full time! I should be pumping out the knits due to stress;)

Off to a take my 6yr old on his field trip...wish me luck.

Monday knit and chat.

2009-06-08T18:10:00.002-04:00

I so needed some knit and chat time today...I sent both kids to school with lunch so that I could enjoy my morning...and part of the early afternoon knitting.

I got to starbucks at 9...with not another knitter in sight! Argh! I sat with my oh so needed ristreto non fat misto americano (I never get them in the correct order...) in the only big chair left in at the back (some businessmen decided to have a meeting in "our" chairs). I kept watching the time waiting for another knitter...and listening to the two very loud talking women sitting next to me.

Look, I really don't care if there was a chipmonk in your house...and I don't think the guy on the other side of starbucks cares either.

Finally the knitters started to role in...thank you Michelle! We bumped the businessmen out and took over our seats! It was a quiet monday...only 5 of us...but great conversation. Everything from someone's upcoming anniversary night in a hotel room (a gift from her daughter!! Too funny!) to hair removal...so sorry you all missed it;)

I worked away on a sample knit for SWK. It is a back cable shell in black. I am using Classic Elite Yarns cotton bam boo...this yarn is to die for! It is so soft and cool feeling...and the drape is just fabulous. I think I need to knit myself something out of it...darn these sample knits:)
I ended up finishing the front this afternoon and blocked it out.

I also recently finished up the Premiere top down leaf tee for the store as well.

Knit in Classic Elite Yarns Allegoro...a cotton linen blend. It also drapes very nicely. The tee is simple and knits up quickly from the top down.

Oh...a couple of people have asked about the seaming of the squares for Karen's blanket. What we did was pick up stitches along one edge and knit back. Do the same to another square and then with right sides together, do a three needle bind off. Once we had strips of squares, I did the same technique along these long edges to join them. When all the strips were joined they were framed in a garter stitch edging, log cabin style.

Happy Monday!

Many hands.

2009-06-06T10:33:00.002-04:00

A fellow knit and chatter had to go in for some surgery last week...so the group of us have been very busy knitting up an afghan for her! I did offer to seam it up...and thankfully got some help from Heather and Liz!!

It turned out just perfect.

Karen made it out for a visit to the knit and chat friday proving a little hip replacement surgery doesn't slow down a knitter!

Things are being knit and ripped over here...some finished knits and some new exciting ones to show you...I just need the time to sit and blog about it. Maybe tomorrow;)

Cat Bordhi

2009-05-25T19:17:00.002-04:00

Yes, I am a bad blogger...life keeps getting in the way.
I am knitting...although things tend to slow down in the summer. I am hoping to really keep at it...especially with the gig of sample knits! Fall knitting is right around the corner:)

I am currently working on a CEY Top Down Leaf Tee for Shall We Knit in Allegoro.

It is knitting up nicely. I was doubting the sizing chose, but I think it will be just right. The drape is really nice in this yarn. I am a little worried about the neck line...it is rolling a bit and it would have been great a little tighter...FYI maybe use a smaller size needle when casting on. I am hoping it will not drop off the shoulders...there are not many who have knit this design on ravelry so I couldn't read up on others opinions. A good blocking will help the roll and the neck can be tightened if necessary.

Friday night was the Cat Bordhi cafe breast cancer fund raiser event. Cat was at Meme's cafe in New Hamburg giving a sock talk. I did finally finish up one of the Coriolis socks.

I went with the whirlpool toe and increased the 4 sts. I also did some increasing up the leg for my calf.

The design is really neat. I have the second sock on the go. I wanted to get at least one of her socks under my belt before I met her:)
Cat spoke a lot of the evolution of sock knitting as well her new way of knitting socks. Very interesting and inspiring. I have a few ideas for designing some socks Cat Bordhi style.
We had a great evening...even having a bite to eat and a drink after with Cat and some knitting friends! I sat at a table with Cat Bordhi...only a knitter would understand.

The socks progress...then regress...then progress...then...

2009-05-13T18:34:00.002-04:00

Things were going so well. I actually have finished up the plaid socks. I need to block them properly...they are a little tight fitting and blocking will help (well, thinking the pattern through thoroughly before casting on...then recasting on...oh that would have helped.)

I don't know what it is...the inner knitter speaks and I think, yes...they WOULD be better if I would have...
And I don't listen. I swear it happens in every project. Yes, I learn things as I go and would apply the to "the next" project. It is always "if I were to knit these again...". Yet I knit things so quickly...why not rip back and make it right...er...um...near perfect?!?

So that is the story of the two different socks I have on the go.
Escher. I am knitting with Tanis's sock yarn. (I still need to tell you all about the frolic and my love for Tanis's yarn) I absolutely love this yarn and would highly recommend it. There is a rumor that Shall We Knit may be stocking it for those who are local!

So I knit the sock toe up to the heel. Then I couldn't decide on a heel so I knit the second sock up to the heel. Then...oh then...I decide that the toe is too short and they are a bit too tight. I should go up a needle size. Yup. I ripped both back and now have one at the leg.
I stopped knitting because they are a little tight on the leg. Yeah. So I am thinking that I should go up another needle size for my humongo calf...yet I am not sure so I have left it and started knitting....

The Cat Bordhi Spiraling Master Coriolis socks. I will be listening to Cat speak at a "sock talk" next friday so I should really have a pair of her socks under my belt...no? Well...I cast on with the a, b, c, d stitch markers and started the whirlpool toe. Well, I didn't like it...but the problem was really all the dang stitch markers. I don't like stitch markers, they get in my way. I know there are some really cute ones out there...so many talented people making stitch markers but I hate using them. I can't stand things dangling from my knitting. If necessary I use a very small metal circle one...just the circular top thingy...nothing hanging from it.
Anyway, back to the socks. I decided to make a regular toe with judy's magic cast on and away I went. I knit a little at monday's knit and chat..then continued the next day making a fabulous coriolis band...then realized that with this toe I can't make the band go up the leg.
Yeah...that is why she says to do the whirlpool toe.
I settled for the basic coriolis sock and turned the heel. Now I have decided it is too tight. It needs a few more stitches around...and the toe section should have been 1/4" longer.

I haven't ripped it yet...but I started a second sock with the proper toe and 4 more stitches.
All for 4 more stitches.
Yup, that is the way I am doing it now...near perfect.

Cream Enchant

2009-05-08T17:04:00.002-04:00

I am a little behind in showing you a FO...I finished it up a couple weeks ago.

Enchant

Pattern: Enchant by Kim Hargreaves found in Nectar
Yarn: Rowan Calmer...not sure how much because it was recycled from Air...that was never worn.
Adjustments: None. Knit to the pattern. Note that it is knit in one piece...then the edging is knit seperately and seamed on. So you really have to love seaming.

I love Kim's patterns. They are well written and so wearable...I know you have heard me say this before.

I love wearing tank tops...all year long. I layer them with whatever...or on their own in the summer. This little shrug is perfect for going over top of a tank. Plus I have already worn it...this is a good sign!

At this past Tuesday's guild meeting we were so lucky to have Sally Mellville and her daughter as the feature speakers. They have written a fabulous book Mother-Daughter knits 30 knits that flatter and fit. Sally spoke to having pride in your craft and wearing your hand knits. Knit things you would wear...shapes of items already in your wardrobe.
I understand knitting for the process...totally...but I would really like to wear what I knit. Sally had some great ideas for your perfect length of knits and what to wear with them...but no skinny pants for me;)
Thankfully...Liz picked up the book! I am really drawn to the Camelot Coat, the Classic Shirt, and the long and short of it pullover...to name a few! Just filling up the queue!

The good the bad and the ugly.

2009-05-06T11:02:00.002-04:00

Life has been gettting the in way of blogging lately...but I have a few moments to tell you about the latest sample knit for Shall We Knit!

So this is the good.

Pattern: Naturally jacket and hat K586
Yarn: Dawn 2 ply in lime green, 3 balls for the sweater and the hat in the premie size.
It is the cutest little baby sweater! The pattern is fairly simple with a little lace detailing.
I must confess that I am a fan of seaming. I love putting the pieces together as flawlessly as possible. Now, I am no professional. I have learned through experience and some on line and book reading.

I wouldn't normally knit a hat flat, especially a baby hat. But, being a store sample I knit it as written. I would suggest knitting it in the round...it is bad enough some babies get a flat spot on the back of their heads from lying on their backs...could you imagine that with a seam line!?!

So here is the bad and the ugly.

This was knit, by me, about 6 years ago. I don't know why I have saved it. It was never worn, thankfully, because Matteo came out as a boy! I really had no idea about gauge...look at how wide it is! And the seaming up is horrible. Oh, it is so bad. But I took photos of it to show you my progression as a knitwear seamer!

Here is the set in sleeve...before

and after...

The shoulder seam before...

and after...

Look at this underarm seam...what was I doing?!?

Thank goodness for learning mattress stitch! For those of you who are still in the beginning stages of learning how to seam and finish off your knits (I don't think I will ever stop learning)...there is hope!

New knits.

2009-04-22T13:09:00.003-04:00

I have so much to post about...but have been pretty lazy lately! I am not sure if it is the rainy weather but I was sticken with a hefty *migraine last night which put a damper on my knitting progress. I somehow got the kids off to school this morning and then went back to bed. It will definitely be a late night of knitting tonight! I need to finish up Enchant if I plan to frolic in it this Saturday;)

I have been seaming the border as I go...it doesn't feel like such a daunting task this way.

I also cast on for another pair of socks for my DH.

I love this pattern. I attempted to make a pair for myself as posted previously but the yarn was not working for the pattern. I like tighter gauges for socks so I am now using some Regia Silk in grey and Lang Jawoll in a blue grey colourway. I picked up the Jawoll friday night from Shall We Knit. I love this yarn! It even comes with a matching spool of reinforcement thread! You've gotta love that! There was a purple colourway as well...I think I will be knitting myself a pair next. Heather is casting on the plaid socks with me. We are having our own little hearty man plaid sock knit a long...don't be afraid to join in;)

Karen of SWK let me in on her next knit...and yes I have been dreaming about it ever since. She is knitting the Pimlico Shrug by Tracey Ullman and Mel Clark using Koigu Kersti...oh can you just imagine?! I am so into shrugs lately and knew I had seen that pattern before..yeah I fav'd it four months ago! Now, I just need to open my own yarn store or win the lotto inorder to knit it out of Kersti! Yes I know you can sub in a cheaper yarn...but I am sure I will be set on Kersti when I see hers.
You temptress you! No, really, she is a great shop keeper who knows her customers.
Bravo Karen...well played:)

I also finished up another store sample for Karen last week...details are coming...

*please excuse any typos or slurring of words...I had two doses of migraine pills in the last 18 hours.

Yarrow Ribbed Socks.

2009-04-19T16:11:00.002-04:00

Things always work out in the end!

Pattern: Yarrow Ribbed Socks from Nancy Bush's Knitting Vintage Socks.
Yarn: Regia 4 ply...one of my favourite sock yarns...and it has a guarantee
Adjustments: I knit these toe up over 72 sts. Some great techniques...Judy's magic cast on as well as Cat Bordhi's ssk gusset decreases...my most favourite new knitting technique ever! The heel I used came from these socks...not my favourite toe up heel, but it turned out ok. I extended the rib pattern down the back of the heel, which looked better. I cast off with EZ's sewn bind off...for a nice loose cuff.

The only bad thing about these socks is that...he loves them. They haven't even been blocked yet and he already has them on!

So...looks like I am casting on another pair of socks.

Did I leave the iron on?

2009-04-15T12:47:00.002-04:00

You know it has happened to you...well at least it happens to me all the time now.
I can't remember if I have done something or not.
Did I leave the iron on or unplug it?
I need to visualize myself doing things. Sometimes I am not sure even then because you do things so often it is hard to remember if you did it today or not.
So as I walked out the door of the guild meeting last night...just after talking to a fellow knitter about Cat Bordhi's SSK method...I couldn't remember if I fed the hungry stitch for the last time and then knit it.
No. No I didn't.
I don't know why I forgot...but I know I did. I knew something was wrong.
I confirm such mistake this morning...and decided to drop that stitch.

A few minutes later I picked up that last stitch and pull it back up.
Don't forget that last step! I surely won't on the next pair.

Yes, I colour too.

2009-04-09T13:59:00.003-04:00

Ok, so how do I have the time to knit so much? Many have asked, and all I say is I knit all the time...any spare moment.
Here is a typical day.
I wake up at 8 am. Well, no. I get woken up around 7 am...there is bouncing on my bed and occasional questions and snuggling...until I drag myself out of bed at 8. (because I was up so late knitting!)
Breakfast is made...usually cereal...but sometimes I will make them eggs. I make myself coffee and oatmeal or eggs. There is lots of rushing around...it doesn't matter how early we get up...we are always rushing. Out the door by 8:45 and drop off whomever has school that day. Get home to finish my coffee and pick up my knitting.
The morning is always started with atleast an hour of knitting. Then I look around and access the situtation.
Matteo is home today so he wanted me to draw some characters on paper for him...but I convinced him to get out the big colouring book. So we colour...

Yes, I have to put the knitting down to colour. (I won't tell you who he coloured and who I coloured!)
We colour for atleast an hour. He allows me breaks to drink my coffee and stops to act out the scene we are colouring.

I now decide I should shower...I clean up the upstairs and clean up myself...out the door we go to pick up Lucca for lunch.
Make lunch...eat and out the door to drop Lucca back at school.
Now when we got home...daddy was here! He was done early today. We go outside and look at the buds in the garden and then I change the laundry. I neatened the main floor (things are under constructions hence the sheet draped over the chair) and did a little dust busting.
Next up is a few rounds of junior monopoly...yes there was some crying and running out of the room (I am not saying by whom). I knit while we played...never holding up the game.
Change the laundry again...lots of towels to fold.
Now I am sitting to blog for a few moments.
I will knit and watch a little tv for the next hour until I need to pick up Lucca...I should walk so that will take up some time.
Then there is homework and snacks...a little knitting...make dinner...a little knitting inbetween...and clean up.
I did promise Lucca a round of "big people" monopoly tonight...and I will do a little knitting with that.
They will be off to bed around 8 and that is when the magic begins. There is serious ravlery surfing and blog reading and LOTS of knitting. I usually quit around 11 or 12.
So when all is said and done...I am sure I could fit in 6-8 hours of knitting a day.
We won't talk about those lazy days...knit and chat days...days no one is home with me...there is way more knitting on those days!

Sunlit

2009-04-07T09:19:00.003-04:00

Today it is snowy...COLD...windy...argh. I am suddenly very tired of winter weather, especially because it is spring!

Let me bring you back a few days when it was sunny...gorgeous...

I finished up my sweater!

Pattern: Sunlit by Kim Hargreaves. Found in Nectar.

Bracelet: Heather's clear beaded version...love it!

Yarn: New from Estelle - South Pacific colour 909 (a gorgeous very light mauve)

Started: March 15th, 2009

Finished: April 1st, 2009.

Adjustments: I knit the medium size so that there is no ease. My version is more fitted than the pattern shows. I also ended up taking out the cast off and doing one more decrease in the neckline with a few more rows. I loved the neckline but I had to fiddle with the bra straps so this solved that issue.

I love the wide sleeve. It fits my larger sized arms perfectly and the length is flattering. The only issue I have discovered is it is really hard to get this sleeve into a jacket. So I will wait for the sun to come out again so I don't have to wear a jacket with it;)

I can't say enought about Kim Hargreaves knits. They are all so gorgeous, well written and totally wearable. The Nectar book is just gorgeous. The only issue is deciding which one to knit next;)

SSK love.

2009-03-30T23:48:00.007-04:00

I have always hated my ssk sock gusset sides. As a matter of fact, when using a k2tog decrease on one side of something and a ssk on the other side...I have never been satisfied with it. The k2tog is always so neat looking...but I just could never get a nice even leaning ssk line. Well, not until now!

With missing out on the friday knit and chats last week, I had to make up for the time. I met some ladies at starbucks in the morning for just that. Karen from SWK came out and was talking about Cat Bordhi's neat and tidy ssk method. Hmmmm. Makes sense...this may work!

Nonno knits did a little experiment with left slant decreases way back when. I remember taking a look, trying a couple, but still not getting that perfect line. I have tried the slip one knitwise, then slip one purlwise....no good. I tried knitting tighter on the ssk line by working them at the tip of the needle...no good...but on the right track! You see the magic is worked on the line before the row!

I have not seen anything that compares to Cat Bordhi's technique demonstrated in this video.

Absolutely brilliant.
Watch it a few times. At first you may be thinking
"seriously...you want me to remember doing something a stitch before the ssk...and on the round before."
Don't worry, after doing a couple rounds it actually becomes habit.

I had just turned a heel (one I didn't really love) on the yarrow ribbed socks. So, I decided to rip back a bit and reknit the gusset...CB style! The results are just outstanding.

I actually can't tell the difference between the ssk side of the gusset and the k2tog side.
(I also changed the heel a smidge...bringing the leg pattern down)

I am totally amazed...this is the best thing that has happened to my knitting in a long time. Some of you may not be bothered by the sloppy look of a regular ssk gusset...but for those of you who are a little OCD or who are perfectionists....this is the technique for you!

Oh the benefits of Knit and Chats! Everyone has something to offer...the smallest thing can make your day!
Thanks Karen...and Cat Bordhi!

I need a plan.

2009-03-29T19:52:00.002-04:00

Well, those were some interesting numbers! Funny how we are all different...with one goal in mind. A finished knit...eventually;)

So I am starting up some more WIP's...after all that! P you would be proud!
This is what is really on the go...
1. Sunlit by Kim Hargreaves in the estelle cotton. I have the arms and the back complete and have cast on and knit a few inches of the front. Then I need to seam it all and knit the garter stitch yolk...all in time for a possible wearing to the knitter frolic. That is April 24th?!
2. Another knit for the knitter frolic but as a sample. A baby sweater and hat...but only a premie size. I have swatched and plan to cast on this week...hopefully completing it by next week.
3. Lily. Well, poor lily. I really like this and the inner knitter was talking to me about the size and the stretch of the calmer. Well, I tried it on and it is too big and stretchy. I think tightening up the gauge will work. So it is just sitting...waiting to be ripped...no rush.
4. The infamous March square for the Great American Afghan along. I finished it...but the last row looks odd....like I should have started the garter stitch edge a row sooner. So I should really rip it back a few rows and reknit that....yeah...I'll get right on that. Now, this is an ongoing WIP...so it is "complete" for the month.
5. I started another sock this weekend. Well, I had started it last friday and ripped it back. Now I decided on toe up and added 6 sts for another repeat of the yarrow ribbing. It is for hubby and is really for knit and chats. Mindless. I turned the heel last night...again, no rush. FYI he tried it on this morning and was so excited that I was knitting him another pair of socks!
6. The plaid socks. Ok. So, M from Friday night knit and chat was working on these a few fridays ago and I just loved them. I picked up this fabulous bamboo/nylon blend. On your toes is the brand. G actually knit her hubby a great pair of ribbed socks and I loved the yarn. The colours I chose are great. A beautiful green and purple blend. BUT...my inner knitter is talking to me.

I am now about 6 inches down the leg...I am not sure. I cast on 60 sts and the gauge is 28 sts in 4 inches. I just keep thinking it is too thick. I like my gauge thinner for socks. I like them but don't love them. I love the pattern and I love the yarn but I just don't think they work together. I have a plan though. Listen to this...
Buy different yarn for the pattern, a thinner gauge and use the bamboo yarn for something else...like this!
Hey? Yes? I think so;)
I am kind of excited to start this...but am resisting.
You see, there are also a small pile of cabinets in the livingroom. It seems my DH's boss ordered too many for his "cottage" (I learned today his cottage has 7 bathrooms. Seven! In a cottage! Yeah, we have 1 1/2...in our house.) Anyway, the cabinets are fabulous and make my kitchen look ghetto. So we have been trying to reconfigure the kitchen/diningroom space to make them work.
So I have a plan.

Take down the wall between the kitchen and the diningroom. Use one large piece for a sideboard and the other pieces on the half wall in the kitchen. But to make it all work I need to paint out the current kitchen cabinets in the same creamy colour (which was a job for the spring anyway), replace the vinyl flooring in the kitchen (I hate having another type of flooring down the hall so that will have to be ripped up and replace at the same time.), purchase a dishwasher to "build in" to the current cabinetry...but we would need to replace the fridge and with a smaller one...so we really should replace the poorly functioning stove as well...oh and the hood...and vent that outside while we are at it. THEN I need to paint the kitchen.
Well...what do you think? Yes? I think so;)

Now all I need to do is win the lotto.

What's your number?

2009-03-25T10:18:00.003-04:00

This past friday night knit and chat was quite interesting. Depending on who I sit next too...I tend to raz up an innocent knitter;)
We somehow got on the topic of WIP's (works in progress).
Now, I am somewhat OCD. I can't have to many project on the go. I can't stand that...I would stay up late just to finish something.
Mind you I have come a long way. I used to have a maximum of 2 knits on the go...even that would give me the shakes. Now I have 4 on the go! I do get a little worried from time to time about it. I feel the need to finish something. I do have a new project to start for a sample knit...but I just can't.
I need to finish something.

There are certain knitters...not to mention any names...who sat next to me...who's name begins with a P and her daughter owns a yarn store in Guelph...who has 15 or so WIP!! AAAAAA! 15! I just wouldn't sleep! Of course, as most knitters can, she total justifies them. A couple are knit and chat knits, one is on going, some are store samples...one is for this...that...all justified! Poor P...I don't think she will want to sit next to me this week;)

I don't think anyone else offered up their WIP number! Maybe because I gave P such a hard time;)
(I have to be kind to P because I also found out she has a stash of fabrics and buttons at home! I think I will head over and help her finish those WIP's for some buttons!)

I will say that once when surfing around on Ravelry I was looking at someone's WIP's and had to scroll down several times...like 50+ WIP! I could feel myself hyperventilating! I had to leave her page...it was so overwhelming. Maybe she hadn't uploaded finished photos and changed her project status to finished? Maybe?

In my own knitting news I finished up the back of Sunlit as well as the arms...did I tell you about that project yet?

My mauve cotton has decided it would look best as a Kim Hargreaves knit! I will let this project rest a few days in order to finish up my March square for the Great American Afghan along.

Once that is done I will feel better about casting on my new project.

So what is your WIP number?

Raspby

2009-03-22T19:50:00.002-04:00

Spring is in the air...finally.
This is why I must share with you one of my favourite accessories...perfect for spring.

Raspby

A slouchy lace beret knit in a gorgeous raspberry colour.

The raspberry coloured beret is knit with Naturally Merino et Soie in size medium/large.
I also knit a large/extra large in Sublime Cashmere merino silk dk.

Raspby is knit with approximately 25o yrds of dk weight yarn.

The med/lg has a finished head size of 21" and the lg/xl is 22 1/2 inches. Mind you the ribbing edge is really stretchy so it will fit all head sizes! The bigger the slouchier.

The lace pattern is easily memorized and it is perfect for the beginner lace knitter.

This is my favourite hat this season. I put one on almost everyday...many days to hide the unwashed hair...and wrinkles...plus you look fashionable!

Raspby is available for $4.50 in my ravelry store.
You can also purchase it through this link:

buy now

Can't wait to see yours!

Beautiful Dawn...

2009-03-16T14:19:00.003-04:00

I love this yarn and I love this knit! Aren't you glad when all things work out as planned?!

ZickZack Tunic

Pattern: Zickzack Tunic by Melissa Wehrle Interweave Knits Spring 2009
Yarn: Dawn 2 ply. 10 balls in brown. I knit the 36 1/2" giving me 1" negative ease (the pattern does recommend positive ease...but you know how that usually doesn't work out for me;) I did use the lengths in the 39" size.

I love this tunic! It is just what I was going for. The yarn is absolutely fabulous to work with and feels so nice against the skin. Silky and soft. I decided to knit negative ease on this one. Once wet, the pattern could really be stretched out. I did no pulling to show the lace pattern. I just layed it out wet and pinned it down. I could have really stretched it out if I needed to. After knitting the cowl neck and arm holes I gently steamed them with an iron so that they would drape nicely.

I know you are loving my green bracelet...another one of Heathers creations from friday night knit and chat. You request green...and she makes it....I just love her bracelets! Wait to you see the other one I got...but I need to knit the matching sweater first;)

I ended up using 5 buttons because mine were a little small. I like the odd number.

The pattern is well written. This is not the first Melissa Wehrle pattern I have knit...there was the kimono I test knit for Sundara a few years ago. I really love her patterns, they suit my style.
This knit will be on disply at Shall We Knit for a while...then it will come back home for some serious wearing;)

This time I am listening.

2009-03-12T09:09:00.004-04:00

I love this Estelle South Pacific pima cotton yarn I got at Shall We Knit. It is so soft...and not dishcloth looking. A little sheen but not shiney like mercerized cotton....it's perfect.
I cast on origionally for a knit I had designed...but didn't like where it was going.
So, I ripped it back...a few times....and eventually decided on the Leaf Tie Cardigan from fitted knits. I made it through the yolk and did the neckline increases....but didn't really like it. It was not working for my girls...so I ripped it back...a few times...and came up with this neckline.

Much better. A more gradual increase (every right side row). I cast on the front section where the ties will go. After a few inches, I decided it wasn't right...too big looking. So I ripped it back.
Yes, this is me listening to my inner knitter.
I left out the cast on section and just knit. I knit and knit that stocking stitch.
I made some nice waist increases and continued to knit until I was done the second skein.
At this point it was ok. So I changed the neckline, the look of the front and lengthened it.
Yes, I pretty much altered the total design.
I thought I better move on to an arm...so I knit and knit that stocking stitch for about 5 inches.
I tried it on for the umpteenth time...and stared deep into my eyes....I knew it was not right.
So, here it is as of last night.

Yes. I am listening to my inner knitter folks.
Swatching again...maybe this? Kim Hargreaves Nectar book is also tempting me...guess what I will be picking up at the friday night knit and chat!?
Surprisingly enough...this yarn is surviving the pressure I am putting on it! Yes, that origional skein is getting a little halo...but it looks fine still. This is some fabulous cotton!

All is not loss in my knitting world.

Casting on, it is so much fun!

Moving on.

2009-03-05T14:22:00.002-05:00

So...has the Diminishing Rib Cardigan been ripped?
Well, not yet. It sits on the bench at the end of my bed...awaiting it's destiny.
Many thanks to all of the closure suggestions. I would really try them out if it wasn't also a size issue. It doesn't fit me...it's too big. It doesn't matter how I close it up.

But, there it is knit up, with a knitters opinion...so you can prepare yourself should you be casting on.
Surprisingly...40 people have favourited it on ravelry. Hmmm. Can't wait to see what you do with it!

What's on the needles now?
Well, Zaftig has been on and off the needles.

Ha! You were looking for a modeled shot! No chance.
This was a sample knit for Shall We Knit to show you that cascade fixation is not just for socks;)
Again, I knit it all the while thinking that I would never wear it...well...it started to grow on me. Maybe in the privacy of my own backyard...20 lbs thinner...and some abs of steel...maybe.
It was fun to knit. A great study in short rows.
If knitting it again I would definitely try to combat that dreaded rolling edge with a garter stitch ridge. The straps are garter stitch so it would compliment it well.
Here are some more pics...I haven't seen any of the elasticband enclosure (which I only did a zig zag casing...not the x as in the pattern.)

I decided to see if you could cast on in the middle of a row with a crochet cast on....

Yup, and it looks pretty good. I took the last stitch worked off the needle and put it on the crochet hook then cast on the required number of stitches before joining it in the round. It makes a matching edge for the cast off...but was totally not needed. You crochet around the edges to finish them off...but it can be done! You can see more photos on the ravelry page.

Another sample knit is the Zickzack Tunic from the spring 2009 Interweave.

Eventually it will be mine.
After knitting up the back with such a delicious yarn, I will be so sad to let it go.
I am just loving this knit. The ribbing is worked with two strands held together and the lace in on bigger needles with one strand. It actually knits up pretty quickly.

Ok...here is a question I asked at my knitting group.
When measuring your knitting (should the pattern say continue until the piece measures x inches/cm) do you lay it flat and measure? Do you stretch it out (like for instance this lace pattern) to width and measure? Do you think all designers have a standard for this? Are they measuring as they knit...or are they measuring the finished garment after knitting?

Thoughts?

I need some closure...picture heavy post.

2009-03-02T12:19:00.002-05:00

Firstly, before proceeding please note that when I take photos...I try to pick the most flattering ones. So it doesn't look all that bad...in the photos...but I will point out the problems to you.
Next, the design is lovely. It is not for me...it may be for you...it has nothing to do with the design...well, maybe a little with the "no closure" thing. But you can fix that.

The Dimishing Rib Cardigan.

Not too bad...a little big looking from the back.
Here are somethings I love.
I really love the colour. It is so spring like. Yes it is bright and maybe not for everyone but brights and neons are back in for spring.
I love the cuffs.

Beautiful. I love the cast off. Sewing the 1x1 tubular bind off. Brilliant. Definitely a technique I will use again.
I love the ribbing and how it shapes the garment. Again brilliant.

So what is the problem you ask? Well, here is what I did wrong.

The first mistake is the yarn. I knew it. I picked up many different types of yarn...really wanted this lovely alpaca blend that was way out of my price point...but I decided to choose something inexpensive. There was my first hint, I didn't really want to commit to the design...there was something about that no closure thing. I love Cascade 220...but I needed something with more of a drape to it.
Mistake number one. Choosing the wrong yarn.

Next, the designer notes that it the model is wearing the 35 1/2" size with 1" positive ease. I choose to knit the next size 39 1/2" which is 2 1/2" positive ease. So when you are wearing a positive ease sweater that has no closure on the front...this is what it looks like after walking around for a moment.

Hmmm. So you re-adjust and strike another pose.
Knitting myself a sweater with positive ease.
Mistake number two.

It's just not working for me.
But that bracelet is! Don't you love it! That was made by a very talented knitter I met at Friday Night knit and chat. Heather said she was bringing more this week...can't wait!

Ok, back to the sweater.
How about a keyhole looking front. Like button at the top and the waist.
So with the help of some stitch markers you get this...

Not bad. Easy to do.
What about putting on a button band. Well, I don't want it any bigger so I would have to figure out how to steek the front? I don't know...get rid of the I-cord edging and pick up stitches for a button band. I am sure this could be a posibility...anyone?
Mistake number three.
Knitting a cardigan with a no closure front.

Oh, you can see it pulling under my arm in the last photo. That is due to such a deep armhole...the inner knitter was speaking to me as I was knitting that as well. I like the armhole up in my armpit...well closer to it atleast.

So, now what?
Do I really want to try and make it work? Shall I seriously rip it all back?
Opinions please. This knitter needs help.

What if YOU really like this sweater. It is already knit...you might have 5 skeins of 220 around...we could swap! Anyone?

DNR

2009-02-28T19:22:00.002-05:00

Every knitter at one point in time is tempted by a specific knit.
It was a cover knit...there was something about it. The diminishing rib pattern that shaped the garment...so clever.
A perfect shape for me...in at the waist...A-line bottom. The perfect spring sweater for me!
A beautiful colour...spring like...so bright and cheerful.
What a blur. It was all a blur.

Of course the whole time my inner knitter spoke to me.
I ignored it.

What about that no closure front? Really? Is that going to work for you?
Oh all that stocking stitch...and that ribbing...you will dread knitting it after a while.
Positive ease. Seriously. You are going to knit a sweater for yourself in positive ease?
Stop. Stop knitting now.

People, I have said it before...listen to your inner knitter.

DNR.
Thankfully, this knit has signed a donor card. All yarn from this sweater will be transplanted...quickly, before it is too late.

Oh...what about the finished photos. They are coming...along with my thoughts on the sweater and how you can avoid these problems...

Antique Lace

2009-02-26T09:06:00.002-05:00

I finished up my sample knit for Shall We Knit last week.

Antique Lace by Ilga Leja.

Started: February 14, 2009
Finished: February 19, 2009
Pattern: Antique Lace by Ilga Leja
Yarn: 4 balls of Schulana Sojabama 55% bamboo 45% soy. Both the pattern and the yarn are available at Shall We Knit.
Size: medium

When I looked at the pattern I thought it would be interesting to knit. At first glance it is not really something I would wear myself. Well, once I finished it and tried it on, I quickly changed my mind. Normally, for myself, I need to wear things that show my waist. If I wear something that hangs down without waist shaping I tend to look pregnant. With the lace stitch and the length of the piece, you can still see my shape...not prego looking! This would really look great over a little black dress.

There is a little short row shaping at the shoulders. Ilga is very thorough in her pattern writing. She explains what you will be doing and also offers step by step instructions. You can follow the chart or use the row by row instructions. The neckline decrease are also charted out for you.

The yarn is just beautiful. It was a pleasure to knit with and the drape and sheen is just outstanding. I was a little worried when I did a full wet block. It came out feeling much like twine. I don't remember this with the swatch. It did end up blocking out perfectly and the bamboo/soy blend kept the softness and sheen. I will definitely keep this yarn in mind for future knits!

Spring is...just a few knits away.

2009-02-24T21:19:00.004-05:00

You know spring is on its way when you get your hands on the spring Interweave knits.
My subscription ended long ago and I debated renewing. I flipped through issues in the bookstore/LYS as they came out. Nothing was really exciting me. A few knits...here and there...but nothing worth picking up the magazine for.
Nothing until Spring 2009!
I don't know what it is but this issue has so many knitable-wearable-knits. At least for me.
I love the cover sweater. Diminishing Rib Cardigan.
Gorgeous. Simple. A great addition to any knit wardrobe.
So, I cast on...and knit (a little obsessively).

The photo depicts the results of day one...220 yrds of 220.
I am now in the bottom ribbing section. It is a good tv watching/knit 'n chatting knit.
Hopefully I will be sporting my new spring knit...in my spring colour I like to call raspberry (depending on the light - it is more fushia in the daylight)...in no time.

Well what's the rush you ask?
None.
I just really want to cast on for the Zickzack Tunic. Seriously. I love this knit. It is so me.
I have swatched already and have so much to tell you!

Oh and then there will be the Whisper Cardigan. And I love the lace in the issue...and Eunny's Blooming cotton scarf (just imagine that in wool for the winter...gorgeous)...the petal halter...hmmm...

If you need me I will be here knitting...

It's back!

2009-02-23T16:22:00.003-05:00

My knitting mojo is officially back!
Horrrrraaaayyyyy!
I finally feel like my knitting is in a good place again. I have those projects that keep me up late at night because I just don't want to put it down.

You know you have a great project on the go when knit with your eyes closed.

Not like "look ma, I can do it with my eyes closed"...I mean you just want to keep knitting but your body is saying no. The eyes begin to close and your hands just keep moving.
Please tell me this happens to you too, so I don't feel so crazy!?!

Many of you are on ravelry so you see what is happening in my projects page. 6 WIP's! Yes that is 6 projects on the go. There are even completed projects that I just haven't had the time to blog and tell you all about...patience please, I am busy knitting with my eyes closed;)

Ok. So here is the textured shawl/scarf. This is a great little "recipe" for a shawl. You make it as big as you want...or knit until you are out of yarn, as I did.

Pattern: Textured Shawl recipe by Orlane
Started: Feb. 8, 2009
Finished: Feb. 13, 2009
Yarn: 2 balls of Jo Sharp Alpaca Silk Georgette in "quince", this gorgeous rusty orange colour. I picked it up at the *Shall We Knit sale at 40% off...can't beat that!
I blocked it out just as I would block out a lace shawl...trying to get it as big as I could. It turned out to be 48"x 22".

I love, love this pattern. It is perfect for that gorgeous yarn you fondle in the yarn store...one that a sweaters worth would be out of your price range, grab a few skeins to knit this shawl. The simplicity of the stitch pattern really showcases a luxurious yarn beautifully.

Will I be knitting this again...ABSOLUTELY!

Oh, and I know you clicked on the *"Shall We Knit" link...and saw the St. Patricks day green yarn sale!! Guess who will be buying some green yarn!?!

Feeding the habit.

2009-02-19T10:13:00.002-05:00

You may have noticed that I have been trying to feed the habit lately. I put up my first pattern for sale in hopes to buy a couple skeins of something in order to knit up...another pattern. I am just about there. It is definitely a learning experience and not as easy as it may appear.

There are others ways to feed the habit. I have done some test knitting for other knit designers in the past and now am dabbling in sample knitting for a LYS.
What a great way to work with beautiful yarns and patterns that I would not normally be able to do.

Antique Lace by Ilga Leja is a lovely lace sleeveless cardigan. It would be just gorgeous over a little black dress.
I am using Schulana Sojabama (oh and yes, in a shade of green!). It is 55% Bamboo and 45% soya...both fibers I have not yet worked with.
The drape and sheen is just unbelievable. It is so silky feeling, definitely a pleasure to knit with.
At first glance the pattern is a simple lace design. For some reason I can't seem to remember the 8 rows, but I usually just have to glace at the chart as I knit. This could be because I am also watching tv...like LOST...which is hard enough to follow itself, forget about trying to knit anything with a chart!

This is the first time I have worked short rows in lace. Ilga provides very thorough guidelines as well as step by step instructions. I love it when I am set up success.
Needless to say, I did have to rip back and knit back a few times on the front as I decreased the neckline trying to watch Lost. Oh and there is that first slip stitch that I knit...and realized it a pattern repeat later.
It must be perfect...no "making it work" here. Store samples are looked at by knitters...you know what they would be thinking if they saw the smallest mistake....yes, there is always a better knitter than you out there;)

Shall We Knit has the most beautiful yarns in stock. If you haven't been there yet, it is definitely worth the drive to New Hamburg!

So what colour pants do you wear with those?

2009-02-17T11:44:00.003-05:00

You know you are one crazy knitter when...
you show your sister the socks you are working on and she says...
"So what colour pants to you wear with those?"
What colour pants? I never even thought about it. Who worries about the colour pants they are going to wear with hand knit socks.
Hand knit socks are a work of art...they compliment all pant colours...or no pants at all!

These socks say
"Look at me! I am hand knit! I feel so nice on the feet!"
they do not say
"How do I look with these blue jeans? Do I look ok...am I drawing attention to myself? How are my stitches? Are they even?"

Who wouldn't love a pair of sockettes in such an electric blue colour to welcome spring! I love wearing sockettes around the house. I inherited a pair I knit for my sister Moe. I love the cotton blend, they are my favourite. Plus they remind me of my sister. Hopefully I will get to knitting the other sock and write up the pattern so you can have a pair for spring too;)

p.s. These socks don't really talk. I haven't come across any talking yarn...I am using Regia cotton, which is a wool/cotton blend....non speaking.

Baby Bootie-licious!

2009-02-12T09:53:00.002-05:00

What does a knitter do when they have a baby shower on the weekend?
Pick up those needles and knit something for a baby!
I love knitting for babies...what knitter doesn't? The projects are small and finish quickly...quite satisfying. The baby patterns out there are just so gorgeous...I started knitting all because of Debbie Bliss' baby patterns.
I still buy her baby books...just in case there is a baby to knit for...none here, kitchen is closed;)

So, I came across the cutest baby booties on Ravelry.
Blue Steps baby booties.
Look what I knit up in one evening...

Yarn: Elann Devon in green and brown. This is listed as a sport weight, but I consider 4 ply. It is currently not available.
Adjustments: All I did was knit the sole in brown and the main part of the bootie in light green.

The contruction is brilliant. You start with a magic cast on. I purled the first row...ensuring the second set of stitches were worked through the back of the loop to put them on correctly. I did my increases on the knit rounds of the garter stitch sole. The increases are done at the toe and the heel...mine look ok but I would like to figure out a better increase for garter stitch.
I switched to the green once I started the brioche stitch. It looks great and it is so squishy.

This baby is going to love these on his feet!

The pattern is simple to knit...I actually knit the second one with out the pattern. I have bits of Devon left...more booties to come...just need some babies to knit for!

Big Fat Fern Afghan.

2009-02-10T12:30:00.003-05:00

I did it! I finally figured out (with a little ravelry help) how to put my patterns up for sale!

The Big Fat Fern Afghan

Yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick and Quick, 6 skeins (approximately 640yrds)
Needles: US size #13/9 mm. A similar sized crochet hook is optional for the cast on.
Gauge: 9 sts and 12 rows in 4" knit in stocking stitch.

My favourite lace motif - the leaf.
Combined with simple stocking and garter stitch to make a big fat cozy afghan. It knits up quickly in a super chunky yarn and it is perfect for the beginner lace knitter.
The pattern can be easily modified to add more width or length.

Many knitters have commented that they would knit is as a wrap...great idea!

The Big Fat Fern Afghan pattern is listed for $3.oo US on ravelry.
For those of you who are not members yet (I highly recommend you get on the waiting list!) you should be able to access it here:
buy now

I hope you like the pattern. I am getting better at making them up and have figured out pdf's!

Happy knitting!

Slippery socks.

2009-02-07T14:09:00.002-05:00

After playing around with stitch patterns...and listening to the pleas of small children waiting for their socks to be knit up...I came up with these:

Cheesy socks. Of course named for the colour...
Both are knit in the Patons Kroy socks that the boys dyed.
The Wilton orange icing colouring is exactly the colour of cheesies.
I used a tubular cast on and some 1x1 ribbing which seemed to compliment the simple slip stich and garter row patterning.
I am planning on knitting an adult size and will have the pattern up soon...maybe for spring;)

Purple cable and garter stitch socks. Yeah, I need to come up with a name. The purple icing colouring didn't take as well as the orange, but I like how they turned out.
This pair I knit toe up and ended with the 1x1 ribbing. There was a little "adjusting" to make the 1x1 ribbing line up...so the pattern needs work. But for kids socks, it is fine!

I love that the boys wanted socks. They don't wear socks around the house. Sometimes Lucca will, but Matteo takes them off immediately when we get home. They seem to need traction when running around the house...so you can imagine how my morning has been since they finally got the socks...
One slip down the wood stairs and a couple times on the wood floor. It's almost like they are doing it on purpose now!

I sent them in the carpeted basement to play before I end up taking them to the hospital.

FYI I have been attempting to add patterns to ravelry for sale...I know some of you are waiting for the Big Fat Fern Afghan pattern. I didn't realize that you need to be "set up" for sales...so I am awaiting authorization...hopefully you will see it up soon...I will keep you posted;)

Frugal Knitting.

2009-01-29T10:31:00.003-05:00

We have all felt the ripples of the eminent recession.
Knitting is not an inexpensive past time or hobby...well for me it is not. I knit fairly quickly and then it's on to the next project. I am somewhat of a yarn snob, but I have been known to knit with some "fair" quality yarn.

You may have noticed that there hasn't been too much enhancement to the stash.
There are a couple reasons for that. Money, the most obvious reason, and the idea of stash itself.
It is very hard to restrain oneself when you are in your LYS. Not a craft store, but a store filled with high quality fiber choices. How quickly we are enamoured with a simple touch...soft...squishy...luxurious...sometimes we can't even put it down. It goes into the stash to be knit someday.
No project in mind.
It stares at you, waiting to be knit...but that project never really comes along. Then you feel obligated to knit it up...sometimes not matching it up to the best project.

So, I am very careful now. If there is a project to knit, I buy the yarn for it.
(Now, that being said, please don't speak of my actions in New Hamburg the other day...I had projects in mind...and the 20%, 30%, 40% off...I must go back.) I was really good at Shall we Knit, surprisingly. We can always use sock yarn;)

Other than that occasional trip to the LYS, I have been frequently Michaels Craft Store.
Coupon in hand, I pick up a ball of patons classic, kroy sock or even Lion Brand thick and quick! It is difficult to just pick up the one item you have a 40% or 50% off coupon for...but I can do it.
So, on the needles is an afghan I am working on. Not only do I love green, as we have previously discussed, but I love leaf motifs.

The thick and quick is no joke. It knits up very quickly...and it thick and warm and squishy! Perfect for an afghan. With a coupon you can get it for $4 a ball...well, this colour (cilantro) is being cleared out...$4.99 a ball is the regular price...and I have had a couple 50% off coupons. It makes for a lot of trips...but for $2.50 come on!

Get your coupon...in and out...one item only!
You can do it too.

Green

2009-01-25T13:17:00.002-05:00

I don't know why I am afraid of colour.
I like colour...well not bright crazy ones.
Muted tones, warm, natural colours.
I rarely paint a "colour" in my house. I use shades of beige, taupes, whites and green.
I like green.
I have a light green couch, green candle holders and vases, new candles that go from cream to green (if you haven't checked out Michaels craft store for christmas sales...go...the "christmas candles" are like$2...these are vanilla cedar), green with brown pillows, green plants...and now I have started another green afghan!

I know, I know...this room needs an accent colour.
I am thinking about an orange...a warm orange, not a bright one.

Oh, the scratchy yarn...I won't be knitting a sweater...probably not even an afghan. I am thinking about a bag...or a dozen of them!
I will be overdyeing it.

Guess what colour I bought.
Yup...moss green.

There is hope for my children. They were home sick a few days this week...during the yarn dyeing experience. So we picked up some natural coloured Patons Kroy sock yarn and they picked some colours out...

These are not my children!

First dyeing attempt. Results...blah.

2009-01-22T13:23:00.002-05:00

So, here's the thing. Well, let me show you...

You see where I am going? Well, me neither.
I knew it would not be brown...it is deeper than my monitor is showing...but it is this weird fleshy tone. AND the yarn I thought might soften up...but no...it is the scratchiest yarn ever. EVER.
So I knit a swatch and soaked it in conditioner...awaiting the results.

Option 1
An afghan. The colour could possibly work because it is almost "stonehouse" which is on my livingroom walls...and in my sisters kitchen that adjoins her livingroom which is "herbes de provence." So, it would be a nice colour to go on her leather sofa....well maybe a leather chair...well, whatever leather piece she buys. (get rid of those puffy sofas!)

I love Girasole and will be knitting this for sure...so that is a possibility.

Option 2
Hope the conditioner softens it enough that it could be an "outwear" sweater - nothing against the skin. Now that being said, I will need to overdye it another colour. Black - grey, purple, green? Suggestions?

Anyone?

It was historic over here as well!

2009-01-20T16:38:00.005-05:00

So, like many of you, I was glued to the tv today watching the inauguration of Obama.

What a truly historic day.

We Canadians need a great leader...need some hope...thankfully this 44th president will affect our lives as well.

So history was made...

and

history was made in my kitchen as well!

I decided to celebrate Obama's inauguration by dyeing some yarn!!

This yarn my sister surrendered to me a while back. It was gifted to her from her boss who was visiting Ireland. I have no idea what it is...I am pretty positive it is wool...definitely not merino...I had no idea how much. So, I had to measure it out. After measuring everthing in the house, I decided to use the bottom front legs of a chair. I measured one skein (which was approx 8 oz)..it turns out I have about 1450 yrds between all four skeins.

I was hoping (key word hoping) to dye it a brown...but my fear of colour...well...let me tell you what I did.

I have wilton icing dyes in the house. The brown was not full...but I had atleast a teaspoon or so. I knew it would not be a deep brown. I mixed it with water giving me about 2 cups of colour.

With so much yarn I had to work in batches.

I soaked 2 skeins in the sink for 1/2 hour.

Then I added 1 cup of the colour to a full pot of lukewarm water.

I started heating it on medium high until it reach around 150 degrees F and then I added 1/2c of vinegar.

I brought it up to 180 degrees F and simmered for 1/2 hour. This was the scariest part for me. I stood there the entire time making sure the temp didn't rise above 180...the fear of felting was real!

I then had to dump the pot into a sink to cool.

I refilled the pot, soaked the next 2 skeins and went through all the steps again. You can see the colour...not brown. Looks almost tea soaked. Well, anything is better than the natural for me, so I will call it a success!

I'll hang it to dry, wind it, swatch it and come up with something to knit....hmmmm.

The designer in me.

2009-01-19T15:44:00.004-05:00

There are knit designs brewing over here.

I debated knitting this gorgeous kids sweater for my goddaughter and her sister. The girls will be turning 8 in a few weeks. I can't even tell you how old that makes me feel...anyway, by the time I order the book, and the yarn...knit 2 sweaters...I will be cutting it way to close.
So, remembering that their mom had given me some yarn that she was going to knit them something out of...
(She bought the yarn a few years ago and then she never knit the pattern and now they have grown so much she surrendered the yarn to me to figure something out.)
I thought I better come up with my own design.

I decided on a top down sweater. Simple.

I loved the big ribbed cowl on the other sweater...so why not knit a big ribbed cowl neck?!

I also love the look of yo increases for the raglan sleeves...especially in a chunkier yarn.

One is complete!

The twins were here on the weekend so I was able to size them up...so far so good.

The sweater is not the only other knit design I have in mind...there are a few accessories I am hoping to write up over the next couple weeks. Sketches are done...a few swatches...I just need to knit them up...

Warming up some necks.

2009-01-18T16:43:00.002-05:00

Smooshie and warm!

Pattern: Thermis
Yarn: Debbie Bliss cashmerino aran x2 balls.
Adjustments: None. I used a tubular cast on and a tubular cast off. The two do produce different results, as a commentor noted. The cast off is much stretchier and looks bigger than the cast on. I suppose you could go down a couple needle sizes for the cast off and they would be more similar...but to me, it works out fine for this project!
The feel of the cashmerino is divine!
It is meant for a gift...if I can keep it off my neck;)

I also knit a Thermis for my Hubby.

Again, I love it...but I thought he should try a neck warmer out since he hasn't really ever worn the scarf I knit for him. He was very hesitant at first...but I assured him that it was very "manly" looking. He has been sporting it every day! He even says it is the best thing I have ever knit for him. (yes, out of all the hundreds of things I have knit...he has only got a pair of socks, a scarf and now a neck warmer...)
I used Patons Classic Merino for his...I really love this darker grey colour.

Lastly, I knit up a wham bam thank you lamb neckwarmer to match with the pink urchin.

This is my friends daughter...my goddaughters sister. I knew that hat would look great on her, so I used up the leftovers to make the neck warmer. She actually wore it around the house all day! What a cutie.
FYI this one is only 15 sts wide, and the size was perfect for her. Needless to say, I will be making two more sets for her sisters!

Tubular bind off with kitchener stitch.

2009-01-14T13:31:00.003-05:00

Ok, here it goes. Go get some needles and a bit of yarn and have at it. Work and inch of 1x1 ribbing (K1, P1) so you can bind it off.
Go ahead, I'll wait.
Ok, now. We need to set up the bind off by knitting 4 rows, so ensure you have enough yarn left.

Set up rows:
Sarting with a right side row Knit the first stitch. Now bring your yarn to the front of your work as if to purl.

Slip the purl stitch as if to purl.

Now move your yarn to the back and knit the next stitch.

Continue across the row and finish the row by slipping the last purl stitch.
Turn your work and it will look like this.

You can now repeat these steps for 3 more rows, ending with a ws side row.

Ok, that was the set up part...is eveyone ok?
Good.
Go grab 2 circular needles smaller than the ones you are working on. These will act as stitch holders basically, so the size does not matter, as long as they are smaller.
We will now tranfer all the the knit stitches to the front needle and all the purl stitches to the back needle. (You need to work steadily...children/animals bouncing on the couch are not a good idea when working this next step!)

Tranfering the stitches on to two needles:
The knitting should be in your left hand and the needles in your right. I use my right index finder to hold the needles slightly apart and grab any stitches if needed. Using the front needle slip the first knit stitch as if to purl and on the back needle slip the first purl stitch as if to purl.

Continue slipping as if to purl. All knit stitches go on the front needle and all purl stitches go on the back needle.

Once all your stitches are transfered on to the spare needles, it will look like this.

You are now ready for kitchener stitch.

Take a deep breath and proceed as follows.
Set up the kitchener stitch by having the purl stitches at the back, with the working yarn, and the knit stitches at the front.

Leaving a fair length for stitching, thread the length of working yarn onto a needle. Put the needle in the first knit stitch on the front needle as if to purl and pull the yarn through. Leave the stitch on the knitting needle.

Now, put your needle through the first purl stitch on the back needle as if to knit. Pull the yarn through and leave the stitch on the knitting needle.

Do the following two steps until you have no stitches left.
1. Put the needle through the first knit stitch in the front needle as if to knit dropping if off the knitting needle. Then put the needle through the second stitch on the same needle as if to purl, leaving it on the needle. Pull the yarn through.

2. Put the needle through the first purl stitch on the back needle as if to purl dropping it off the knitting needle. Then put the needle through the second stitch on the same needle as if to knit, leaving it on the needle. Pull the yarn through.

*Keep your eye on your sewing tension as you go.

When you get down to the last stitch on the front needle, just put the needle in as if to knit and slip it off. The last stitch on the back needle, put the needle in as if to purl and slip it off. Sew in your end and have a look at your beautiful tubular bind off!

Casting on and casting off.

2009-01-12T09:09:00.002-05:00

Remembering my knitting resolution of thinking through cast on's and cast off's, I used the tubular cast on (my favourite version here) for Thermis.

What a great little pattern. I love that you can knit such a fashionable gift with such little yarn...patons classic merino, no less...is such little time! I plan to make at least a couple of these to keep for gifts for next year. This one I was hoping my hubby may try. It looks manly enough!

I decided since I used the tubular cast on that I would try a tubular cast off.

I love it! It is a really stretchy cast off and would be great for so many projects, especially toe up socks! It produces such a professional looking finish.

Now, I must warn you that it involves kitchener stitch...like a lot of it! Of course it depends on how many stitches you have on the needles....lets just say 124...divided by two of course, so 62 stitches on each needle...it is not for the faint at heart.

Since I have another Thermis on the go, I will show you how it did it....

The afghan I never knew I would knit!

2009-01-08T09:27:00.002-05:00

I must say that I am a ravelry junkie. I know it is sad. I used to be such a blogger junkie...then came ravelry and it just seems so easy and to the point...no thinking involded. You also can go to different forums and join different groups of people with similar interest etc...you know how it works! That is where I found the cambridge knitters.

Since moving here I've been working on making our house a home and settling the kids in. Yes I have been knitting but I haven't really done anything for me. So I dragged myself out of the house one friday morning to meet with these knitters. I am so glad I did, I really look forward to meeting up with the knitters every Friday.

They had planned knitting the Great American Aran Afghan. It is made up of 20 squares designed by different knitters. After all the squares are complete, you seam them together and knit on a border.
Hmmmm. Squares sewn together. I wasn't sure about this adventure...not what I had in mind for an afghan. The more I looked at other knitters results on ravelry...the more it started to grow on me. Each square is so unique looking and knitting a 12x12 square would give you a sense of acomplishment after each one. I am in!
I headed out to Michaels craft store to pick up some yarn. I wasn't sure how much of a dollar investment I wanted to put into this...as fabulous as it would be knit out of cashmerino aran...I just can't spend that kind of money. So I decided on Patons Classic Wool...warm and inexpensive. I chose a really nice olive colour. The only reservation I had was that it is not washable...so it probably won't be gifted out. I can wash it on the hand wash cycle in my front loader...but I have no idea how I will dry it. I will cross that bridge when I come to it! Lets get it knit first!
First up is Judy Sumner's square.

I wasn't sure about the spider, I am a bit of an arachnophobic.

Look at how cute it is? Who could be afraid of a little yarn spider?!
Check out the bug!

I love it!
This square is really unique looking. There are 4 different charts to follow...so my eyes were killing me. I was just so excited about this new project...I stayed up until midnight to finish it.
Yes, that's right. The square we are taking a month to work on...I knit in one day. I am taking the fun out of working together!
The next square I will knit slower...I promise ladies!

Selbu Modern

2009-01-05T21:44:00.003-05:00

Here is the final knit of 2008...blocked and finally photographed!

Started and Finished over 2 days of christmas holidays!
Pattern: Selbu Modern
Yarn: Elann Devon in mauve and green a partial skein of each.
Adjustments: None really. I went up in needle size (US 3 for the ribbing and US 4 for main section). I used a tubular cast on. This one is my favourite. The instructions are well written...there are pictures...and it is easy to do.
I really liked knitting this and it's already been worn out to my knit and chat! It's a keeper!

My sister saw me sporting Selbu and she says: "Hey, nice hat! Where did you get it?"
I just stood there thinking...really? Does she really think that I didn't knit it?! HA!
She thought I bought it! Seriously!
and that my friends is why....
I am knitting her one!

A new year of knitting.

2008-12-30T22:51:00.003-05:00

As we embark on the new year...I've started to think of resolutions, as many of us do...

knitting resolutions.

This is the year.

I will knit an afghan. I know, how simple...yet I have never wanted to knit an afghan. Such a huge project with so much commitment, I figured I would never finish it. Well, then Jared posted this pattern. Now, I will knit an afghan.

I will steek something. I need to improve upon my knitting skills. This is something I haven't tried yet, and really want to. I just need to find a project that I want to knit that requires steeking.

I will dye yarn. Again, not very exciting but something I need to do for a portion of my stash and something I feel I should try at least once.

I will really take the time to think each project through. From cast on to cast off. No rushing just to get it done...I am not a knitting machine. I will think through each and every stitch. (I just get so excited sometimes and can't wait to see it done!)

I will spin. OH NO! Yes, this is the big one. I know I said it here...#7 never...yes the ladies at the Cambridge knit at Starbucks have tempted me. I am going to do it. My biggest fear is that I will love it...

Well, there they are. Will I stick to them? I should think so;)

And what about projects...now that the Christmas knits are done? Matteo had a request.

Knit on Christmas eve...yes a lazy day of knitting an entire project!

Pattern: Jackyll and Hide

Yarn: Cascade 220 in red and some scraps of black for the embroidery.

Adjustments: The pattern is written for an adult, so I cast on 92 stitches. Garter stitch 10 rounds, st st for 2", 3" of ribbing and decrease to 70 sts. St st for 4" then knit eye holes as written. Knit 4" of st st then start decreases, decreasing every other row until 6 sts are between needles, then decrease every row. This seemed to have worked to make a child size. It is pretty snug, so I would go up a needle size if I were to knit one for my other son...which will probably happen!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-24T09:17:00.003-05:00

Ok, here is a good one.
It came by email, so I am not sure the origional source to give credit too...but it will warm your heart;)

Tequila Christmas Cake:

Ingredients:
1 cup of water
1 tsp baking soda
1 cup of sugar
1 tsp salt
1 cup of brown sugar
Lemon juice
4 large eggs
Nuts
1 bottle tequila
2 cups of dried fruit
Directions:
- Take a sip of the tequila to check quality. Take a large bowl, double-check the tequila again with another sip.
Turn on the electric mixer. To be really be sure that the tequila is of the highest quality, pour a shot glass and drink.
And repeat.
- Beat one cup of butter in a large fluffy bowl. Add one teaspoon of sugar.
Beat again.
- At this point it's best to make absolutely sure the tequila is still OK by drinking a full cup...just in case.
- Turn off the mixerer thingy. Break 2 leggs and add to the bowl and chuck in the cup of dried fruit.
- Pick the frigging fruit up off floor. Mix on the turner.
- If the fried druit gets stuck in the beaterers, just pry it loose with adrewscriver.
- Forget the glassware, sample the tequila straight from the bottle to check for tonsisticity.
- Next, sift two cups of salt. Or something.
- Check the tequila. Now shift the lemon juice and strain nuts.
Add one table. Add a spoon of sugar, or somefink.
- Whatever you can find.
- Greash the oven. Turn the cake tin 360 degrees and try not to fall over.
- Don't forget to beat off the turner. Finally, throw the bowl through the window.
- Finish the tequila and wipe counter with the cat.
CHERRY MISTMAS!

I hope santa is good to all of you! May there be yarn, patterns, and fleece beneath your trees!

Hold on to your hats.....

2008-12-23T09:16:00.002-05:00

I'm done.
Well, not knitting...because I can always knit something...but the "planned" Christmas knits are done. There were a few hats this year....here is a glimse of them.

A simple 2x2 ribbed beanie made with cascade 220 in navy.

A chunky knit Urchin from knitty, made with wool ease, in pink! I was not sure if I liked this one...it does stretch but the size worried me so I knit this...

A Kiddie Cadet made with bernat wool blends. The flower is from jimmy beans wool anna's angel hat and knit with left over DB cashmerino dk in the mauve that just happens to match! I really love this knit and may make some more for fun!

A turn a square hat that is just a basic brown tweed knit with jo sharp silkroad tweed. I do want to make it in the noro stripe, whenever I get some more in the stash!

The last one...which is obviously not a hat...a super-fast, ultra cosy scarf made with 2 balls of wool ease.

All packaged up and ready to go!

How to give a handknit...

2008-12-20T22:29:00.004-05:00

Things are flying off the needles around here with very little time for blogging about them. Here is the latest FO...The Sunday Brunch Jacket and Retro Bonnet.

Started: December 11, 2008
Finished: December 18 2008
Pattern: Sunday Brunch Jacket and Retro Bonnet from Sublime #600
Yarn: Debbie Bliss Cashmerino DK
Adjustments: None really. Many thoughts on the pattern though. The bottom edge rolls a bit...which is fine but I would maybe trim with more garter stitch rows. The arm holes are a little large for the sleeve size and you have to ease the sleeve in...which is not necessary in a baby knit. I would make the hole smaller or sleeve wider to compensate for that.
You really need to know how to make appropriate decrease and increases especially in the collar.
The collar...well is an interesting construction.
I wasn't sure if I liked picking up the stitches from the right side...I debated taking it back and picking up from the wrong side. After blocking it looked fine. You also cast on stitches to be sewn to make the front of the collar...again after blocking it looked fine, but if I were to knit it again, I would source a different collar design.
I would also add another button hole...there is too much space between them.
I did knit a different flower for the bonnet.
Other than that...it looks gorgeous!

As you may have noticed I printed up some cards on cardstock to attach to the swatch. I thought I would add in the swatch, should any darning or repair ever need to be done. As well, it hold extra buttons...and...it just looks pretty! A little snowflake hole punch and a piece of scrap yarn to tie the card to the swatch and voila!
Another knit complete!

Moss-a-licious!

2008-12-17T18:22:00.002-05:00

I just must show you how cashmerino dk looks in moss stitch....

MMMMMMMMmmmmmmmmmm!!! Doesn't that just look delicious?! I promise, I won't talk about the yarn...you've heard it here before:)
This is a little gift I am working on. I origionally bought the pattern book to knit this for my niece last christmas, but that didn't happen. So, I am more than happy to knit it up for someone else.

It's just in need of a little steamin' and seamin'...

You know that I took care of that today...

Of course, I have to knit the matching retro bonnet...of course!

Thirteen days left...

2008-12-11T10:18:00.004-05:00

Ok, I know that I didn't make a long list of christmas knits...but pressure is on. There are only 13 days left to get these done!

Don't worry...I am on a bit of a roll...

Pattern: Gentleman's Fancy Socks from Knitting Vintage Socks

Yarn: Patons Kroy Sock 4 ply 3 balls...with about a yard to spare!

Adjustments: I knit with a bigger gauge to make a bigger sock...easy. I also didn't like the toe as written and just knit a my standard toe.

And

Pattern: Aibhlinn Cowl from Knitty. I really love this pattern!

Yarn: Louet merino 2 skeins in Carribean blue...love the colour!

Adjustments: I actually knit as written until I ran out of yarn. The gauge is much tighter...but it looks great!

I don't know if I love this yarn. It doesn't seem to have much give when knitting it...kind of like cotton. It is really strange. It is suppose to be a worsted weight...but it is more like a dk for me. I think I just miss the sproingyness of the cashmerino;)

There...two more done! Some more FO's are blocking and will be ready for viewing shortly!

You will never believe what happened!

2008-12-03T09:15:00.003-05:00

Ok, I was sitting at the computer, minding my own business....infact, knitting a sock and surfing...when all of a sudden I saw THIS!

I know, I know, it is like you are forced to put down your socks in progress and run to the stash to find itty bitty yarn and some itty bitty needles.
Then, if you can believe it...this happened:

And then this...

And moments later....this....

Then suddenly out of nowhere...there were all these body parts...

My fellow knitters...I CAN'T STOP!

Not only are they so darn cute and will make great little gifts...but...the construction is brilliant! I have knit my share of knitted toys. I love that the dress is knit in one piece with the head. I love how you cinch in the neck....and I espcially love how you use the felt on the back of the face! Hello. Brilliant.
You see, I never, ever thought of that. I myself have struggled with keeping the face on through the stitches!
Once again, Little Cotton Rabbits has amazed me!

P.S. there was also an teeny tiny rabbit knit as well as an teeny tiny bear for the making of this post...but my boys grabbed them up, ran off with them and are currently holding them hostage...now I need to go and knit 4 more for gifts...

Who needs Socktober to knit socks?!

2008-12-02T11:19:00.002-05:00

I am a little late for serious sock knitting...but who says I can't celebrate Sockvmber...or Sockember...or Sockistmas...ok, I will stop now.

Started: Nov. 11, 2008
Finished: Nov. 25, 2008
Pattern: Mad colour weave socks found on ravelry.
Yarn: Lana Grossa Meilenweint Cotton in black. 2 balls
Adjustments: I did a couple minor adjustments. I knit the large size for the leg and went down to the med size for the foot. I also added a pattern repeat in the leg making it a little longer. I would have liked to make the leg longer, but wasn't sure about the yardage. Now that they are knit...I could have done a couple more repeats...oh well.

Started: Nov 19, 2008
Finished: Nov. 25, 2008
Pattern: Retro rib socks from Interweave Knits 2004 also can be found on ravlery.
Yarn: Kroy sock 4 ply in blue. 3 balls
Adjustments: None except for making the foot longer than the pattern.

All packed up and ready for Christmas!

Look at me, knitting two pairs of socks and another on the go!
It's like the good ole days of knitting around here.

Weekend knitting...

2008-11-30T16:19:00.002-05:00

I was lucky enough to have a little knitting getaway this weekend. My girlfriend from Windsor met me at my sisters in london...no kids! It was great. We knit away on our christmas gifts...cowls and socks.

Our very important 4 c's of knitting...

Corona, Chocolate, chestnuts and cakes of yarn!

I am not sure about this louet merino. I miss the microfibre of cashmerino. It almost feels like knitting with cotton. I kept changing needle sizes trying to get the right density...I am not 100% now. I refuse to rip a third time. Hello. Gauge swatch...I know.

I did start a new pair of socks...Gentleman's fancy socks from Knitting Vintage Socks. I am using Kroy 4 ply again. It does knit up nicely. The sock is so big (of course to match the foot of the recipient) it is like knitting a stocking!

Fill 'er up Santa!
Hope you had a great knitting weekend!

A hat pattern and some yarn!

2008-11-27T13:58:00.003-05:00

So first, the picot edge hat pattern is up on ravelry.
I am not really sure how to get that to none ravelriers...try here.
I knit one with Cashmerino DK, making a large size.

The last posts hat was knit with Sundara's merino wool...which is currently discontinued. She has many other wonderful choices in beautiful colours...check it out.

In other exciting news...I bought some yarn!

I decided I needed to find my LYS. I went over to the Kitchener Market to Yarn Indulgences. I must say, I will be frequenting this little shop.
I was looking for more cashmerino aran to make a gift for Christmas...and found Louet yarn! Yeah! I am so excited to try out this washable merino wool! It is so soft and the colour is beautiful. What will it be? Another "A" cowl. For whom? Can't say!

Picot edge hat.

2008-11-25T09:22:00.002-05:00

You know that I was desperately hoping that someone would say that the socks would stretch. I knew and know that they are too small. My inner knitter was obviously yelling at me...but did I listen?
I kept knitting...decreased the toe and tossed it to my sister to try on, getting her opinion.
"These are too small" she said.
Great, well, no surprise, I knew that. I guess I was hoping that magical knitting fairy would appear and add 8 stitches to the circumfrence. Hmmm. It didn't happen.
That's ok though. There is another person on my list that they will fit...that is really why I just kept knitting. So, the other sock is on the go and I should finished these up tonight. YEAH!
Thank you for your comments on the yarn...I do love that they are washable, but the pilling worries me. We will see.

In other knitting news. I made a picot edge hat (I promise that this is the last picot edge thing I will knit), to go with my mittens.

Not too bad!
I will write up the pattern for those of you that want a matching hat for your mitts! The mitten pattern is here.
They both make great Christmas gifts...get knitting!
One month to go!

How about navy yarn?!

2008-11-20T09:15:00.002-05:00

Believe it or not...navy is much better to knit with. Since navy is not "the absence of light" like black is...you can actually see the stitches with out straining your eyes! I do love navy, this is not the first navy project of mine.

Yes, that is correct...another pair of socks.
I was in Michael's craft store yesterday and saw Patons Kroy sock yarn. I don't think I have ever come across it before. It is actually a decent yarn. Well, it is not a koigu, definitely not, or a regia silk...but it seems like a good WASHABLE sock yarn.
Washable is the key word here...because the recipient must have something washable...accidents have already happened.
(Now, that being said, I have accidently and now on purpose put my koigu socks in the washer and the dryer...a great yarn.)
But, for this person...I would need at least 3 skeins of koigu...and $45 socks, well, no. So I decided to give the $6 a ball kroy a try.
It is a rough yarn...but sometimes I like that for a sock yarn. I have knit myself a pair of lana grossa wool socks that I love to wear.

Kroy knits up nicely with wonderful stitch definition. The pattern is retro rib socks. I knit myself a pair before and I love them. I have worn them so much, they are the first pair of hand knit socks to get a hole in the heel. A bitter sweet happening in a knitters world.

Some sort of ribbing is a must for this person. My only concern is the size. This ribbing is very stretchy and I went up a needle size...I am just unsure. Here it is stretching over my hamhock.

Many of us in the family have large calves...knee high boots that fit are rare! (See that floor! That is a first time for refinishing hardwood for us...not too bad!)
I will not make the sock long enough to go over the calf...but at least up to the calf. There is still a little room in there as well. I don't know...what do you think?

Will this yarn stretch out with wear as well?
Experienced kroy sock yarn knitters?

Knitting with black yarn?!

2008-11-18T19:01:00.003-05:00

Firstly, thank you all for your comments on the last few posts! I thought all my readers had left me!
So, I just wanted to interupt the barrage of FO's to show you a WIP.

I am not sure how I feel about knitting with black yarn...I think this is a first for me...well besides a tweed.
I feel blind.
Seriously.
When I finally get to knit at night, I have to literally sit under a lightbulb to knit this. I do like the yarn though. It is meilenwiet cotton from lana grossa. It is machine washable...which is a defintely plus for the recipient and who wouldn't love black socks! How practical.

The pattern I found on Ravelry. Mad colour weave socks.
I really like the pattern...it is interesting and knits up fairly quickly. I have already cast on for the second sock.
I wanted to make them a little longer than written, but wasn't sure if I would have enough yarn. I ended up doing a 7th repeat of the pattern before starting the heel. Also I knit up the 74 st size but ended up decrease down to the next smaller size. The recipient likes a looser leg, so it worked out.
Well, there is it.
A sock is on the needles...
and I am officially knitting for Christmas!