the knitting buzz

detour sock pattern

There is nothing like a pair of hand knit socks. 

The "Detour" is complete.... that is the Detour Sock Pattern ....... aka Orange Sox and now time for some details.

 

Detour is a rendition of a classic ribbed sock.... with a twist or rather with a zig and a zag  The rib travels down the leg in a zig zag fashion from the cuff to the toe.

It's knit with Cascade Heritage Silk Fingering weight yarn, in the colorway: Melon. Its 85% Superwash Merino Wool and 15% Mulberry Silk.  It is machine washable and nothing but lovely.  I can't wait to use it again.

The Detour Sock Pattern is available on Ravelry.com thru Knitting Buzz Designs.....

Happy Knitting!

let's catch up

Whew......time flies when your having fun.

I will spare you most of the chatter .....

Let's catch up thru some pictures on whats been happening in my little corner of the world. Pictures of my terrace renovation, Carly Lace Wrap extention, the Carlisle KAL progress, a Orange Sox project, Diamond Mesh Lace Wrap and more Amalfi Fishing Mesh Lace Accessories.

My terrace pictures are a bit gloomy, it seems like its been raining for a week. Added some planters and the table & chairs that I had been longing for. I love al fresco dining!

 My Carly Linen Lace Shawl came out great. It was well worth taking the time to take out the bind off and add the extra length. Thank you Bernadette for being such an excellent model.

The Carlisle KAL has been fun; I rarely get to knit a second wrap even though on my To Do List.  Admittedly, I have not gotten as far as I had hoped but its started and easy enough to pick up.

 

The Orange Sox are nearly complete..... I think I will call them Detour.  More later....

 

The Diamond Lace Wrap is a newer design project......more later.....

 Another new project design, Amalfi Fishing Mesh Infinity Cowl and Scarf......more later

 

 

 I will get into more details on current project designs soon.  Wishing you all the best.

Happy Knitting!

 

carlisle lace wrap and scarf

My first pattern for 2012 is now complete and ready to share.  Carlisle Lace Wrap is the result of my Green Shoe Project and one that I couldn't be more thrilled that its ready to accessorize.

 

Carlisle Lace Wrap is available on Ravelry.com from Knitting Buzz Designs.  Its knit with the beautiful Madelinetosh Tosh Lace, colorway Thyme.

 

This is the first time I had test knitters and it was a wonderful experience.  I appreciated the feedback and seeing how different yarns knit in the pattern. Thank you Test Knitters. 

Below is a picture of Marian's WIP Pink Carlisle.  I think it exhibits beautifully how this pattern looks great without blocking.....BONUS!

On my quest of being intentional..... I would like to invite anyone who may be interested in test knitting one of my upcoming patterns please contact me on Ravelry.com, my user name is knittingbuzz

 Happy Knitting!

new year

With 2012 just around the corner, I find myself looking toward the New Year to seek out ways to improve ...... a better way, better habits, in short, a better me......

So my resolution for 2012 is to be INTENTIONAL. Intentional in everything I do.  Specifically, I want to turn my knitting design patterns into an intentional source of wealth. 

I want to thank all who have followed, supported and offered words of encouragement to me over the past few years.  For this I am eternally grateful.  And until there is a word that is capable of expressing all my gratitude, THANK YOU will have to do.

To get started, I took some time and gathered together all the thoughts & ideas, knitted swatches, drawings & sketches and that I had scribbled down on note cards, on loose sheets of paper or even in a notebook.  Then compiled them together into a three ring binder utilizing sheet protector sleeves for each project idea.  My "cocktail napkin" approach or random scraps of paper to jot down ideas or making sketches had resulted in ovewhelming clutter, disjointed thoughts and even lost or misplaced thoughts, now has bloomed into an intentional organized course of action. 

By the way, much to my own surprise, this gathering and sorting process resulted in 20+ new lace shawl/wrap & cowl designs and a dozen or so sock patterns.  Now this should be a good place to start for me to be intentional ;-) 

Next, I have also started keeping track of expenses.  I had never done this until now, always thought that I should but just hadn't done it.  To be intentional this seems like a prudent practice..... especially for tax purposes.

I'm really happy with this new "system" because its simple and gives me an excellent place to reference, as well as, update. Easy to intentionally add to previous thoughts and ideas, edit changes on projects in progress and its in a simple format to intentionally add new ideas, sketches, swatches, etc.  Feeling very liberated today.

NOW....all that is left for me to do is to some test swatches and start knitting my sample pieces to be photographed.   Its time to get busy knitting.

Knitting every chance I get......

Happy Knitting!!!!

test knitters

Having test knitters is something totally new for me and I am thoroughly loving it.  For my Carlisle Lace Wrap and Scarf (perhaps better known is the wrap to go with my green shoes), I now have two test knitters, Marian and Camila. 

This has forced me to get the pattern written earlier, which will make it faster to publish once its blocked and photographed.  Writing it while I am working on it, also forces me to take better notes and leave less to memory (always dangerous) ....... The best part its getting feedback on its clarity and ease of understanding.

So a big thank you to Marian and Camila for all there help.  I would also like to invite others who may be intersted in test knitting any of my future lace shawls/scarves or sock patterns.  To contact me, send me a pm on Ravelry, my user name is:  knittingbuzz.

Happy Knitting!   Another random picture for your enjoyment.....

inspired to start

I just love to cast on.  What is it about casting on that gives such a thrill? Is it the promise of a new adventure or the promise of a future finished new hand knit lovely, or is it just a deversion to that keeps other projects on the needles longer than they should be or could it just be, all of the above.

I have found myself in a start-up or cast on mode, partially because of the loom of gift knitting (which I am hopelessly behind on) and the visions of sugar plums new design ideas dance in my head.

Here is a quick snap shot.....

So this is a collection of ideas and gifts or both.  Why so many?  Good question.  Some are just ideas that spring up, some are determined by a need (like green shoes), some gifts emerge from wanting to see or experience how a particular yarn works up and then some are a combination of some of the above. (By the way, missing from the picture is my nearly finished (20 rows to go) Retro Afghan, that is just needs some cold temps to get dragged back out.)

This used to stress me out having so many projects on the needles. But I guess, I'm mellowing and now look at it look at it as I have the perfect project to work on regardless of what I'm doing or where I am. 

I would say that I have plenty to keep me entertained.  The pitiful part is that I am actually restraining to start a couple of project ideas because this deluted mindset could just turn into ridiculous, even by my standards.

Happy Knitting!

chevron love

I love the chevron pattern big and small, wide and narrow. 

My recent published pattern Charlie Chevron Stripe Scarf was a primer and study using Fibonacci numbers for the widths of stripes, for an upcoming afghan blanket project. 

As a breif recap........ Fibonacci numbers developed by Fibonacci Leonardo of Pisa in 1202, published a hypothetical math problem about multiplying rabbits and came up with the mathmatical numbering sequence.   This sequence of numbers can be found throughout nature:  branches on trees, leaves on braches, petals on flowers, etc.  It is acclaimed that the use of the numbers in the sequence always produces something visully appealing. 

The number sequence is as follows:

0,1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8. 13. 21, 34, 55, 89, 144, 233, 377 and so on.

The sequence is the sum of the two numbers before starting with zero and one.

0+1=1, 1+1=2, 1+2= 3, 2+3=5 and so on.

My Charlie Scarf (which is now available on Ravelry) was my method for testing out a substantially larger blanket sized knitting project.  And with some tweeks, I have it all planned out and ready to go......as soon as I finish my Retro Crochet Afghan, that I started last winter (only about 20 rows to go). 

With the chilly weather, I may be able to get my Retro afghan finished this coming weekend.  Sweet!

 

Another random picture to share........

 

 

 

gilded

Got some publishing done this past weekend.  Its been way overdue. 

The Gilded Sock Pattern was fun to do, but seemed to get the "back-burner" treatment for the last couple of months due to knitted lace wraps and shawls, birthday knits and so on.

 

These are knit with Malabrigo Sock yarn, 100% Merino Wool, it has a very soft luxurious feel.  I have used Malabrigo Sock yarn for gifts I have knitted but this will be the first pair I have knit for me.  YAY me!

 

The knitting instructions for the Gilded Sock Pattern is available on Ravelry thru Knitting Buzz Designs.

 

promenade lace wrap and scarf

Promenade is the handknit lace wrap that I have been working on, in the beautiful mohair from Wagtail Yarns.  Its a  4 ply 100% Super Fine Kid Mohair (fingering weight) AND even though its been finished for a couple of weeks, its finally published.....yay!

 

The pattern is available on Ravelry.com thru Knitting Buzz Designs.  I am really pleased how it turned out and can't wait to start wearing it. 

 

 

 

 
Lastly.....another RANDOM photo

 
Happy Knitting!

inspired

"Shoulda, woulda, coulda" gave me the "kick in the pants" inspiration I needed to set a goal to get the beautiful lace knitted wrap/scarf design completed, so I could wear it to TNNA (The National Needlearts Association) Trade Show in Columbus.  I calculated that I needed to complete 20 rows every day, giving me enough time for blocking and pack it for my trip. Twenty rows sounded ambitious even to me, but I was determined to give it my all

The first two days of this challenge, were indeed challenging, but 40 rows were completed. I pushed myself and got it done. 

Day 3 was a different story...... I got up at 4:30 am to knit with the endless cup of Starbucks House Blend, then off to work.  Came home to look after Xander, then resumed knitting around 9pm and stayed up to till around 11:30pm kniitng groggily and at times falling asleep. Still not completing my 20 rows....OOFDAH!!!

Day 4 was worse..... this is the day I found the mistakes I made under heavy eyelids, late the night before.  Kind of like a Day of Reckoning.  I quickly faced the fact that this beautiful wrap/scarf knit in Dream In Color's Its Native, will be finished at a later date and will not be going to Columbus with me in any form other than a UFO (un-finished object).

So, this opened up season on knitting up something else to wear at TNNA. Not surprised, I'm positve.

shoulda, woulda, coulda

Or translation..... EXCUSES.......

Its been awhile since I worked on my wrap/scarf design that I'm knitting with Dream in Color, It's Native;  53% U.S. Superfine Kid Mohair, 48% U.S. Superfine Merino Wool, 1000 yards.  I LOVE this yarn and I really like the pattern design, BUT it tends to be the first project to get pushed aside for another.

For instance.... over the last month or so, it quickly got moved to the "back burner" to crank out some gift knits and then there was the interruption of my Dandelion Lace Scarf and now another one in PINK.

I have been quick to whip out the excuses.....

• Nearly halfway into the project and it feels like I should have used larger needles.  Feels like the mohair is filling in more than expected.  Now I did a knitted swatch (but not a blocked swatch), where I made the decision to take the needle size down.
• I should have blocked the swatch to better understand how the mohair would perform
• Why didn't I block the swatch? It meant cutting the yarn.   I was concerned that the yardage may be too skimpy for a full fledged wrap, I just couldn't part with losing any potential yardage.
• So I made the wrap one repeat less (slightly narrower) than intended to get some added length, which now feels too narrow (hoping that wet blocking will be my friend). I guess I should just surrender to the notion that its a gorgeous scarf.....and get over it!
• I am nearing the halfway mark, I feel like the wrap/scarf may be .....dare I say... too short. Blocking may be my answer. Time will tell.

What else?????

My normal reaction would be to frog the whole thing and start again......but since we are talking mohair, I have thought better.

Soooooo......I am going to persevere....whether its a bit too narrow or short for my liking(sounds kind of pitiful, sorry about that) ....its still going to be beautiful.  

More later.....

 

dandelion lace scarf

It's finished!  The Dandelion Lace Scarf pattern design, inspired by this beautiful field of dandelions. Who could resist? Read more about the inspiration here.

 

The scarf design is blocked, measured, photographed and published. The pattern is available at Knitting Buzz Designs on Ravelry.com. My blocked version almost looks like the field of dandelions, right?  Maybe if you squint. LOL.

 

It's knit with the gorgeous yarn from  Alisha Goes Around, Richness of Martens Fingering weight, 75% Fine Superwash Merino Wool, 15% Cashmere, 10% Silk in colorway: Trick Goldfish. I thought the color was a perfect match for the inspiration, but I think it would look good in any color.  It looks good in both hand-dyed yarns, as well as solid colors.

 

Its a very easy pattern ..... practically a piece 'a cake. 

I had so much fun knitting it, that I have already started another in pink. 

this pattern will also look great using other yarn weights.  I am thinking about doing it in a lace weight shawl in white (I think it would look like the dandelion seed puff after the wind has caught it and disbursed the seedlings) and a whimsical afghan/blanket. Needle size details for other weights are included in the pattern.

 

 

 More later......  Happy Knitting!!!

made a dent

Progress!  That's right!  I made a dent in finishing some of my knitting projects that were on needles.  I must admit..... it feels quite good.  Completed projects are the best!  Took 8 daunting unfinished projects down to 5. Sweet ..... now there is no guilt to cast on something new. 

I have finished and blocked the socks I was knitting with the Creatively Dyed Yarn for a gift.

 

 
I have Charlize #2 on the blocking board (above). And I have my latest scarf design, Dandelion. waiting to be measured, blocked, measured again and photographed. 

 

 
Dandelion has a open look (but not lace) and was inspired by the beauty of a field of dandelions.  It works well with hand-dyed yarns, as well as solid colors.  It is knit in Alisha Goes Around, Richness of Martens, a fingering weight yarn with merino, cashmere and silk.  I think it could also look great in yarns that have large stripe repeats like Jawoll Magic or Zauberball. 

 
I hope to release and publish Dandelion later this week.  Dandelion is very easy and a fun knit. It was so fun to knit I think I would like to make it as a wrap and an afghan blanket too.  I have worked out some pattern changes to make it into a wrap/shawl and afghan/throw blanket.  I will publish and make those chages available as ready.

 

too many projects?

I am feeling like a mosquito..... I'm everywhere all at the same time. 

I have reached the point that I have surpassed my own comfort level (which I have a fairly high tolerance) of the number of projects I have on the needles. These are project  that I truly want and intend to finish.  My goal is to get one or several completed QUICKLY.

Project Progress Update

Dandelions (new design) - Scarf - about 75% complete (most focused on getting this one completed)

Its Native (new design) Shawl/Scarf - nearly 50% complete

Charlize for a gift - 90% complete (have a little time before this has to be finished)

Creatively Dyed Socks - 75% complete (time sensitive)

New Sock Design - 25% complete

Retro Ripple Crochet afghan - 90% complete (will probably dust this off when its gets cooler, unless the AC is cranked up)

Crochet Pillow Cover - about 10% complete (a me project using a pretty crochet stitch and the beautiful Ultra Pima Cotton from Cascade

Crochet Face Cloth - 25% complete (a side project that is fairly mindless and toteable, when I am not knitting socks).

Whew!!!

To make matters worse, I have three, maybe four designs that I'm aching to get some test swatches started for lace wraps and shawls.  It is my own level of uncomfort that is "holding this at bay" ...... at least for now.

So today......  after chores and errands, I hope to get some serious knitting time in.  OR perhaps it should be ......maybe I can squeeze some time in for chores and errands after knitting...... I think that sounds much better.

Happy Knitting!  =)

its a dandy!

Fields of dandelions..... dance in my head and onto my needles.  I have been knitting away and my latest knit scarf design inspired by....that's right... dandelions..... is about 75% complete.  It has an allover openwork feel, somewhat lacy I suppose.  

 
I am knitting with a fingering weight yarn; the gorgeous Richness (of Martens) by Alisha Goes Around, in the colorway: Trick Goldfish (isn't that the perfect color name).   Richness fingering weight is 400 yards of scrumptious 75% Fine Superwash Merino, 15% Cashmere, 10% Silk..... yummy....got to love it!

 

Alisha is a relative newbie to the hand-dyed yarn world. I had the extreme pleasure of meeting her at TNNA, her booth was decorated with hand-knit peacocks and famingos. She started her company in her kitchen and does everything herself.  Her colors are rich and bold, I couldn't wait to start knitting with it myself.  Alisha is bubbly and fun..... and maybe even a teensy weensy bit quirkey.  Her hand-dyed yarns are pure genius.  I love her motto; "Knit Happy, Knit Healthy, Knit Early, Knit Often".

 

skimp and stretch

Just a quick update  on my Dream in Color It's Native wrap/scarf in color Velvet Port.....

With a premature light blocking, while on the needles (while I am typing this it feels almost illegal), I was able to get about an 1.5 inches length out of one repeat and about 2 inches in the width. With a proper blocking I should be able to get a little more width and length out of it.

 

It still feels like it will be skimpier than what I usually prefer, but definitely workable.  Just keep knitting.

On a side note, I have to say... I love this yarn!!! Just wish I had more of it..... its 52% U.S. superfine kid mohair and 48% U.S. superfine merino.  Its heaven!  I LOVE knitting with it!

 

predicament

Yep. I am in a regular quandary. 

The lace wrap/shawl that I'm knitting with Dream in Color It's Native has less yardage than I typically use for a knitted wrap/shawl... but more yardage than I need for a scarf. So I find myself doing a bit of skimping on the sizing to somewhat force a wrap/shawl or perhaps just realize that an oversized scarf is what's in store for me.

Currently, I'm doing alot of yarn weighing and measuring, especially at the start:

• I weighed the hank before I started casting on, then weighed it after the border was completed. So now I know exactly how much yarn I will need to complete the border and bindoff without running out of yarn.  Clever right?
• I measured the first lace repeat and the border separtely, to estimate the final measurement of the piece.
• I also weighed the yarn again after the first repeat, to determine how many repeats I can get out of the yarn I have.
• I also measured the width.

Next, after I get another repeat or two knit, I will do a premature block to get a better idea of the final product and how the yarn/lace design stretches in width and length. 

This normally is why a gauge swatch is so important, but in this case, I knew the yardarge was skimpy for my need and didn't want to risk any yardage waste.  So I took the plunge.

Start with the end in mind.....that's my philosopy.  OR ....if you don't know where you are going you will probably end someplace else....

off the needles, blocked and published

Whew!  Venetia Lace Wrap/Shawl is finally finished and ready to worn around town.  It went from coming off the needles.

 

 

To the blocking board.

 

To this.....its kind of like going from caterpillar to cocoon to butterfly.

 
 

Venetia gets its name from the Diamond Mines in South Africa.  It's a gem! Badumbump

 

This lace knit wrap/shawl was knit using the beautiful Gossamer Lace Yarn from Sheepytime.  Its 80% Merino 20% Silk, 100 grams and 1312 yards.   I purchased this yarn a few years ago at Stitches Midwest and wonder why I waited so long to knit with it.  I thoroughly loved it ..... it knits and blocks beautifuly.  Lucky for me I have another hank.

Venetia Lace Wrap/Shawl & Scarf Pattern is available on Ravelry along with my other pattern designs.

made my day

As a designer of knitting patterns, I get the luxury of selling my patterns to those who embrace by own design sensibility. For those that I see at the Yarn Shop. I love seeing their work and getting updates on their progress. 

But for  those patterns that I sell online to knitters I may never get to meet, the connection ends there, usually...... sometimes I get messages as questions pop up and the posting of progress or pictures of the WIP and then finally the finished project.  I love the pictures!  I love seeing the yarn choices. But  rarely is there a connection...... so it is this very special occassion.... I want to thank Kathy from Pennsylvania for making my day. 

Kathy took the time to share with me her enthusiasm for socks as a new knitter and I felt like I could feel her high energy and it was totally infectious.  Kathy gave me permission to share her kind words.....

Kathy wrote:

"Hello Krista, I purchased your pattern for the Dash Sock last night and stayed up past midnight to work on them.  After a few hours of knitting on them today, my first sock is DONE! I am a fairly new knitter, just started knitting socks since the first week of Februrary.  I have made 5 pair of socks using just 4 needles and this pattern is the first with 5 needles.  I really enjoyed making these.  Your pattern is very clear and was easy to follow.  I used Araucania Itata multi yarn and the varigation in the yarn was perfect for this pattern.  I can't wait to finish my other sock!......Thank you for sharing your talent with us!     ~Kathy in Pennsylvania

 

Kathy, thank you for your kind words and your enthusiastic knitting spirit.....

Haqppy Knitting! 

 

distracted

How does this happen?  Once my trip to Portland was cancelled,  I have lost my focus on my Venetia Shawl/Wrap project .....and I was doing so well.  Now that the deadline or rather goal has been removed, I find myself taking on new projects. 

I have started crocheting a pillow cover, testing out some patterns in the form of cotton facecloths and to top it off, I spent a good part of the weekend, swatching some knit lace designs for my next lace shawl/wrap design.

I can explain...... The distraction could happen to anyone.  I have recently acquired some beautiful laceweight and fingering weight yarn. A couple of hanks of Wollmeisse Lace Garn, Madelintosh Tosh Lace and Tosh Merino Light.  Ok, ok, ok.... who wouldn't be distracted by that.

Happy Knitting!

some progress

I have made some progress on my Venetia Lace Wrap that I am racing to get finished for the Yarn Market News Conference in Portland OR, which begins March 13th.  I had previously figured that I needed to knit about 2" per day or about 20 rows to finish the knitting and leave enough time to block it and pack.

 

Based on the latest measurements, it looks like I am on track, but I have been finding it increasingly more difficult to get enough knitting time in each day.

My blogging has suffered some....and for this I apologize, but appreciate all your support and confidence. 

Some days I feel like the fish, Dorey in "Finding Nemo"...... instead of "just keep swimming"...... I say...just keep knitting, just keep knitting, just keep knitting.......

Have a super great week and Happy Knitting!

 

in demand

I have had so many requests for a wrap/shawl design version of my Venetian Scarf that I couldn't resist starting it.  I decided to exaggerate the borders and of course widen it as well. 

 
 

Since it hasn't been blocked, it doesn't look like much yet, but I'm happy with the proportions and can't wait to get it finished.  I would love to get done in time for my trip to Yarn Market News in Portland OR in early March.  So far I have 16" completed which is a long way away from the 63" (before blocking) that I have calculated I should be able to get out of the lace weight yarn.

Ok....so the inner nerd in me says that I need to knit about 2.5" a day.  Seems do-able but could be close. 

I am using some yarn I have had in my stash from a incredibly talented indie dyer from Indiana, Sheepytime Yarns.  I am using the Gossamer Lace that is 1312 yards of 80% Merino Wool, 20% Silk in color Black Water.  Its really been great for lace knitting.

 

 

 

 

endive cowl pattern

I'm sure the color had something to do with it, but my latest cowl design reminds me of fresh endive.

 

 

 

The Endive Lace Cowl is a pretty layer for chilly days. The pattern is available on Ravelry.com.

 
It was designed to be worn over the head and around the neck.  It is long enough to pull over the nose and mouth or up over the head for extra warmth.  It is knit out of a fingering weight yarn, Malabrigo Sock, keeping it lightweight, soft and warm.  It can be easily knit in a sport weight yarn without having to change the pattern.

 

The closeup photo shows the stitch pattern in more detail, however the color is way off.... please ignore the color.

 

 
This was fun to knit and I want to thank Katie for being such a gracious model.  Thanks KK!

What's on the horizon? 
Well I have had such a positive reaction to my Venetia Lace Scarf, that I am working on wrap/shawl version with a exaggerated border.  Photos soon, I promise.

AND...... I am one stripe away from finally finishing my crochet Retro Ripple Afghan/Blanket as a tribute to my dear sweet Grandma. One large stripe or three hanks of yarn.

 

 

 

cowl blocking techniques

Thanks to the blizzard, I was able to finish the knitting of my latest cowl design.  So, now its time to soak and block it. 

 
Blocking anything that has been knit in the round, especially lace, can be a challenge to not have creases along the sides where it is folded. 

Once the piece has soaked in a tepid water and wool wash for about 10 to 20 minutes, squeezing excess water out gently and head to the blocking board.  My technique is to use dowel rods or in this case, large knitting needles (US# 19 or 15mm) and positioning them along the sides and wedging a couple of T-pins into place on a slant to the desired measurement.

 
Then pin any points or features of the lace and let it dry thoroughly.

I have done this many times before and it works perfectly every time.

I hope to get this pattern published within the next day or so. 

Stay tuned.....and stay warm ......today the high here is 10 degrees......brrrrr

 

what's on the needles

I have been doing some swatching for a new lace wrap design.....  I have some Wollmeise Lace yarn that I can't wait to start knitting with......its kind of like what my Dad would say to me when I was a kid about money...... "its burning a hole in my pocket".  I'm close on the pattern design, but it still needs some tweeking.

In the meantime, I have a couple of "closely knit" projects on the needles..... the first is a cowl or neckwarmer design pattern and secondly, a sister sock. 

 
The cowl should be finished knitting soon and then off to the blocking board. 

The sock(s) on the other hand, may take awhile and will require some sizing changes.

Both of these projects are being knit with Malabrigo Sock Yarn.  I love this yarn.....it never disappoints and wears well too.

lace class inspired

Finally, my lace class inspired scarf design  is finished, blocked, written and finally published.  I called it Venetia Lace Scarf, named for the famous Diamond Mine in South Africa. 

 I knit it with Punta Space Dyed Lace yarn, a 100% Merino Wool.  This yarn was very nice to work with and was super easy to block.  And if you remember my wip picture, it appeared to need pins, wires and the works......

 
But instead....... it was so easy that I didn't use any t-pins or blocking wires.  I just let it soak in wool wash for about 15 minutes, then gently squeezed out as much water as I could with my hands, rolled it in a towel, then positioned it to the blocked size with my hands.  I blocked it 2 inches wider and 14 inches longer.  It was a breeze!  Don't you love it when that happens.....I know I do.

The pattern is available on Ravelry, along with the rest of my designs.   

 

 

plan change

Today was one of those days. 

Had great plans for this forecasted incredibly cold day to take Katie and Xander to the Museum of Science and Industy.  Only to find my sweet Xander, sick with head/chest cold & congestion.  Better to keep him indoors and ward off any chance for something worse.  I was sad about the plan change, but .....now saw my day ripe full of opportunity.

Opportunity to catch up on some chores and the opportunity to work on knitting  my latest lace scarf design. 

 

So with some hot coffee, my new project bag from Lantern Moon, my trusty Knit Kit  and the afternoon to myself, I made some decent progress.

This scarf was inspired by a set of three patterns, from the Barbara Walker Treasury, that I use in the Intermediate Lace Class I teach. Many of my students wanted a scarf pattern and I told them I would work something up.  The lace details are really difficult to see until it has been blocked. 

So, I used two of the three designs to construct a bordered lace pattern.  The smaller pattern is the border and the larger pattern is the insert.  I think it could make a very nice wrap or shawl too. I am using the 100% Merino Wool Space Dyed Lace from Punta Yarns. They have a beautiful range of colors.  It should block nicely.

 
As I have been working on this piece, I have been getting a lot of requests for the pattern. So once I have finished the knitting and  blocked it......  I will get it written up, take better pictures and published.  Hopefully within the week....

On a side note,  there is still some good football knitting this weekend......  GO BEARS!!!!

tnna fashion show

The TNNA Fashion show for Spring 2011 featured silhouettes that incorporated  playful texture, more lace, ruffles & pleats, sheer texture, embellishments and a thoughtful approach to colorwork.  In addition, there seemed to be skirts and dresses shown this year. Here is a sampling from the show.

 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Happy Knitting!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

heading for tnna

TNNA (The National Needlearts Association) hosts a show twice a year for retailers, offering classes, a fashion show, interesting speakers and the show to purchase yarn, needles , notions and accessories for the upcoming season. The best part is that it is hosted in Long Beach CA; a nice break from the down coat and Uggs routine.

We leave tomorrow, so today is filled with all the usual pre-travel errands, (hair cut, manicure/pedicure, dry cleaner and Walgreens) and what to pack, clothes and more importantly, which knitting projects to take. 

Don't laugh.....the projects are the most important part. Need to have a project that is somewhat mindless to have on hand during speakers presentations and classes. Something interesting to work on in the evening. And most important, something that will get through airport security.....we are talking about a 4 hour flight here. 

My history is that I have visions of grandeur and pack more projects than I can possibly work on. I think, secretly I have a fear of "what if I finish and nothing to work with on the way home"....YIKES!   

But this time, I am going to try to be more reasonable about the amount of project I take.

•  I have my lace scarf project which is a must have, but since they are on Signatures, I worry about them being taken by the TSA. So this will be packed in my checked luggage.
• A sock project that was abandoned during my holiday knitting because its recipient had a color change request, this could be my airport/plane knitting.
• A Linen lace scarf I started last year in my Bubbles pattern, this could also be airport/plane knitting
• A new sock design I started before the rash of holiday knits and its cowl compliment that has been cast on but really needs a gauge change. This may be too taxing a project and should probably stay home.
• There are others to consider, but so far, the lace scarf and the abandoned socks are definites.
  

Then there is the "other thing".....this is something that is only whispered. For some peculiar reason, I am compelled to take a plethora of needles, just in case. Just in case, there is a new yarn to try, just in case I score some yarn that has to be cast on immediately. Just in case, just in case, just in case......

More later on our TNNA findings.....

BTW.....we are staying on the renovated Queen Mary and it could be haunted....sounds exciting, right?

 

craving lace

Since I can only work on my retro afghan when its colder (usually early morning or late at night), I need an alternative project or two, a lace project and a traveling project (Can't be left empty handed (if you know what I'm talking about, than you know and if you don't know what I'm talking about, then you just may be better off). 

 I am totally yearning to work on a knitted lace project, a lace scarf or shawl, or maybe even a lacey cowl or dare I say even socks.  Maybe not socks.  With all the gift sock knitting this year, 12 pairs or 24 socks or approx 250,000 stitches ..... no matter how I say it.....that's a lot of socks.  Socks may have to go on a back burner for a bit.

I took a couple of the stitch patterns that I usese in my Intermediate Lace Class teaching a variety of stitches and combined them into a pattern for a lace scarf, which could be easily adapted into shawl or a wider scarf. Here is a shot of my unblocked work in progess thus far.

I'm using a newer space-dyed laceweight yarn form Punta Yarns that is 100% plyed merino. This space-dyed yarn give a tonal effect.

unstripe to unspiral

Did you know?

I love most sock yarn, but my least favorite  happens to be hand-dyed yarns that do that spiral stripey thing. With that said, I took the pattern that I shared earlier this week, of "how to unstripe" a stripeing sock yarn and tried the same approach with a predictable spiraling hand-dye sock yarn.

The photos are showing both sides of the work.

I can't believe I am saying this.......but I am liking the results.  Even though there is still a hint of spiraling, I'm liking it!

The yarn that I am using is Socks that Rock Lightweight Sock Yarn from Blue Moon Fiber Arts. On a crazy buying spree during my visit to Seattle, I had the uncontrollable urge to buy 6 hanks of Socks that Rock. I simply couldn't choose, they were all so beautiful.  I couldn't wait to cast on and quickly found that even though the yarn itself was wonderful to work with, I (hate is such a strong word) didn't love the spiraling nature of the dyeing process.

But now, with a little experimentation, I'm a fan!!! I am so thrilled since I still have 4 hanks to go.

 

how to unstripe

Holiday Sock-a-thon knitting has a tendancy to get a bit redundant. Churning out a  stockinette socks one after another to capitalize on speed, using computer engineered and hand-dyed yarns to preserve the interest, resulting in the maximum quantity of Holiday sock knitting for the deadline.....December 25th or sooner, if they have to be mailed.

Feeling good about my progress so far, I decided to change it up.  I had a yarn that I knew was guaranteed to create a predictable stripe and  incorporated  a stitch pattern to purposely disrupt the stripeing nature of the hand-dyed sock yarn.

 The leg portion of the sock is patterned, while the foot is knit stockinette allowing the stripe to re-emerge.

 I like the playfulness of the pattern with the striped yarn.  I used Schaefer Nichole Sock yarn, colorway Bugs.

 
For the basic sock construction, I  followed my Basic Stockinette Sock pattern in 2 sizes which is available for free on Ravelry.com.

To begin.

Cast on 64 (72) stitches.

Rib cuff in a *k2, p2 ......repeat to end of round for 10 rows.

Pattern

Row 1& 2        Knit

Rows 3 - 10    *p2, k2 ......repeat to end of round

Row 11 & 12    Knit

Rows 13 - 20  *k2, p2 .....repeat to end of round.

Continue in pattern to desired leg length, ending on row 10 or row 20, before starting heel. Continue to follow the Basic Stockinette Sock pattern until complete.

I rather like how they turned out and want to try it again on another type of hand-dyed yarn.... perhaps one that is guaranteed to spiral.

Until next time ....... Happy Knitting!

frosted

 

My Frosted Cowl Neck Warmer knitting pattern has finally been published.  I actually been sitting on this one since the beginning of the year and set it aside for a handful of reasons, but now its done and available on Ravelry.

  

Frosted is being modeled by Katie. Its a textured knitting pattern that uses a mini cable technique to form the raised design. It was made with Cascade 220 a Peruvian wool which is available in 280 colors, so hard to choose a color, its like being a kid in a candy store.  I knit it somewhat densely to ward off winter chill and is available in two sizes.

I love the picture of the frost on the windows that I shared previously, which is where the inspiration originated.

 

October is flying by

I love the little bit of chill in the air that comes with Autumn.  The leaves seem to be changing color and falling so fast this year. I think this has something to do with rain fall; too little or too much,   I don't know which or really what causes it at all.  

Fall makes me think of pumpkins. I love almost anything pumpkin flavored, except pumpkin pie... not a fan.  But give me a pumpkin muffin, pumpkin cake, pumpkin latte, pumpkin beer, pumpkin soup, pumpkin ravioli or even pumpkin beer.... I will always say, "YES".

I have high hopes of publishing my Frosted Cowl knitting pattern this week.  It was inspired by the designs and patterns that forms on windows when the temperatures get colder.  I have included some pictures for my southern friends, who may have forgotten or just miss out.

 

 
Beautiful and inspiring!

My Christmas gift knitting has me a little stressed out. Perhaps its because it is already October 19th and only 9 weeks to go. Or perhaps its because I have so little finished.  You can be the judge:

Completed:  1 pairs of knitted socks

In progress: 1 pair of knitted socks, 1 secret knitted project, 1 scarf

Plan to knit:  6 pairs of hand knit socks, 1 hand knit sweater, 2 toys, 3 hats

Gifts that already fell off the list:  1 hat

The "Off The List" list may grow faster than the Completed List if I don't get a move on it. Hope you weren't expecting a hat..... blush.

some rambling

Some rambling and a quick update.

Recently, I had gotten some disheartening news that took its toll on me. I learned or rather was reminded that its so importnant to enjoy and appreciate those in your life right now. I also learned that instead of feeling hurt, that I'm grateful for the opportunities I have been blessed with.  I know this must sound mysterious, but those who know me best will understand.

My gift knitting or finishing large project knitting has taken over.  I truly enjoy knitting gifts for others BUT it has a way of turning into "duty" knitting, which is not so much fun.  I guess that's not entirely true.  I am so happy when each gift is completed and I am able to move on. The knitted gift list plan (I'm almost afraid to detail it because it may inset instant panic). One sweater, seven pairs of socks (this is not for one person, you know who you are), one scarf, four hats and two toys......and I have 11 weeks to go....YIKES!

The Great Blanket Race has taken a slight back seat. For a quick blanket update: My Reversible Eyelet Check Blanket (Teal Blue) is now 72% complete and the crochet retro ripple afghan has been set aside, but will pick it back up after the holidays.

I have a few knitting patterns that are in various stages from near publication (of which there is one), to on the needles (there are 2), to swatching (there are 3),  to just sketches (there are 2). Of course, these projects are mostly on hold while gift knitting takes center stage. All in the hope that this will make my life a little less crazy in December when the calendar races by and the clock is ticking and... and... and....  However, I do try to sneak some work on them now and then.....its hard to resist.

focused or not

This past week has been focused .....but not necessarily on those things (like the Great Blanket Race) that I made the bold statement that..... "I was only going to work on my Retro Crochet Blanket and the Teal Knitted Blanket". 

Intentions were good; they always are..... but not realistic ..... at least not for me.

So in the meantime,

1.  I have published a super cute Argyle Check Cowl pattern inspired by all the great plaids that are out. (Available on Ravelry)

2.  I have started a pair of socks for Xander that are about 60% complete.

3.  I needed a plum lace scarf (notice "needed", its true) to go with a jacket that I started knitting and is now also about 60% complete.

4.  I stayed up past 2 am working on some new lace designs for scarves and wraps, that I am anxious to get started on, but promised myself I would even think about starting them until the plum scarf is off the needles.

5.  Due to lots of requests, published the Teal Knit Afghan and named it the Reversible Eyelet Check Blanket/Afghan (more of a descriptive name than clever, I would say) in two sizes: crib size 30 x 36 and adult throw size 48 x 60. (Available on Ravelry)

6.  I have NOT worked on my Retro Crochet Blanket at all, but its 57% complete. For now, I am officially putting it to the side..... for all of the above reasons.

7.  I need to get started on my Christmas Sock knitting....some time soon....yikes...it will be that time before ai know it.

Believe it or not ..... this is very focused for me.

I never do this

Over the past week, I have had so many requests for the knitting  pattern for my Teal Blue Afghan. Its the one that  I have been diligently knitting for the Great Blanket Race. 

I have never done this before, ........until now.

I have made the pattern available before the original is complete.  I have called it the Reversible Eyelet Check Blanket/Afghan. I am knitting it with Misti Alpaca Tonos, a worsted weight, 50% baby alpaca 50% merino wool. It is available on Ravelry. 

I amknitting anl adult size afghan ( 48" x 60"), all the details are included as the original is planned. In addition, I have included directions for a crib size version as well, I think it would make a sweet baby blanket.

In the pattern notes, I have included lots of yarn substitutions for a washable version.

For those of you that have been so kind....... thanks for asking. =)

Plaid - WSJ. Magazine - WSJ

Plaid

From Scottish clansmen to modern runways, traditional tartan gets turned on its head this season

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By Jenny Studenroth

MENThe beginning:Cloth patterned with interlocking stripes in multiple colors and thicknesses, or “tartan,” is famously connected to the Scots, who, from the 1600s forward, wore the fabric, most notably to signify clanship, but its origins can be traced to ancient Celtic populations in 400 B.C. In 1822, King George IV of England attended a Scottish tartan celebration and brought the trend home. Americans were crazy for the pattern by the 1850s—and rechristened it plaid. The print hit a high note in the 1970s when Scottish pop sensation the Bay City Rollers added tartan edging—plaid is strictly a North American term—to their
wide-leg pants.
The look:Dapper, down-home or punk. The “Mad Men” of the ’60s stylishly wore three-piece plaid suits. Since the ’80s, Bruce Springsteen has celebrated the American working class in his plaid flannel shirts. Nirvana’s Kurt Cobain inspired scores of youths to pair plaid with everything—especially if torn or dirty.
The news:Michael Bastian combined a bow tie, a vest and trousers, varying the check’s widths and colors. Banana Republic was all about muted gray plaids on heavy peacoats, classic cardigans and V-neck sweaters. Duckie Brown pushed the envelope, putting contrasting plaids on cropped pants with combat boots.
How to wear it:On a belted fall coat in blac

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Don't you just love autumn? Have fun and get your plaid on!

fall fashions

I love the Fall and I especially love Fall Fashions.  All the knitwear, the beautiful plaids, the gorgeous wools, did I mention the knitwear. 

And this year is no exception.... Plaid, Argyle, Checks, Houndstooths are all back!

 
Plaids just make me happy. Could it be ingrained from parochial schooling (that may be a whole other story) ..... I don't want to think about that!

OR is it just a sign of the fresh crisp days of autumn.....the time for sweaters, wool socks, pumpkin spice latte and plaid.

So I couldn't resist and knit a fun cowl that is kind of plaid in nature. I call it my Argyle Check Cowl and it is made out of beautiful Malabrigo Twist.

And yes, if you've been paying attention, one of those projects that I promised to set aside during the Great Blanket Race had found its way out of my knitting basket and onto my knitting needles.  Oops =) ...... just couldn't resist.... again.

The pattern for the Argyle Check Cowl will be available on Ravelry soon. 

 

A Gripping Yarn - WSJ. Magazine - WSJ

A Gripping Yarn

As craftmaking finds respect in even the most rarefied design circles, knitting makes a high-concept comeback. Warm, fuzzy feeling still included

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Can knitting go too far? Never!

Couldn't wait to share this article with you from the Wall Street Journal.

4 letter word

What's happening?  I just started to crochet an afghan with Katie in our retro afghan-a-long.  And then out of no where.....

I see a sign in the window ..... it speaks to me.... SALE .....and...... then it happened....

Those 4 simple letters S  A  L  E 

They have such power

Any sensible reason goes out the window....swish.....

Do I need it..... no

Do I need it...... no

Do I need it...... no

Do I want it ......yes

Do I need it ......yes

If you haven't guessed by now it is yarn.  It's always yarn.  But not just any yarn, its 50% Baby Alpaca and 50% Merino Wool, it a beautiful tonal shades of Tealing Blue, its Misti Alpaca Tonos.  Its 218 yards of soft goodness.  Sweet!

OK. Here is the part that normal reasoning may be questioned....

Normally, 1 - 3 hanks would curb the need for a hat and a scarf.  But noooo, I had to have all 11 hanks that remained because I HAD to have it to make ANOTHER AFGHAN.  Yes I did!  The last time I made was more than 5 years ago....hence not an avid afghan knitter or crocheter.

Now wait... it gets better.  I had to come up with a pattern and knit the first hank to make sure that 11 hanks would be enough to get the width and the length I wanted.  Or would I have to design it with some well thought out, planned and engineered stripes in a different solor to extend the yarn to get a blanket that just the right size, really a blanket that was not too small.

Here is the the start of blanket #2 =)

The yarn is beautiful... right?  You would have done the same thing.....right?  OK then. Here is the piece de la no-resistance.

And 11 hanks is perfect!

 

More later.....

 

music box socks

Inspired by a music box......even I think this sounds a little crazy.....but here is the first pics of "Mira" (named after the antique music box I spied a couple of weeks ago.

 

I love knitting socks, but I have not knit as many lately as I used to.....so working on Mira has been a fun knit Cerulean (5637). The yardage is very generous and knits up beautifully and is available in 80 or so colors. Its 75% superwash merino, 25% nylon... a perfect workhorse sock yarn.

 

 

The pattern for Mira will be available on Ravelry tomorrow with more pictures.

May you hear music all day long.

 

garden inspired

 
Alas! I am finally able to publish my latest design, Villandry Lace Shawl.

I owe a big thank you from the students in my Intro to Lace Knitting class last knit. They showed so much enthusiasm for this design that I got it in gear and got it written and available for a pdf download. Thank you Lenora, Judy, Antoinette, Elizabeth, Sally and Michelle... =)

Villandry Lace Shawl was inspired by the breathtaking gardens of the Loire Valley and named specifically for the famous labyrinth and maze style gardens at Château de Villandry in France's Loire Valley.

 

 

This shawl was done in a lace weight yarn, specifically Jaggerspun Zephyr which is 50% extra fine merino wool and 50% Chinese Tussah Silk. The pattern is available on Ravelry as well as the rest of my design collection, Knitting Buzz Designs.

 

 

This was a really fun project and will work well in all weight yarns and could be adapted to a smaller scarf size or to a larger afghan size.

 

Happy Knitting

au revoir
!

much ado about nothing

While running errands yesterday opportunities presented itself all around me to wait.  And since I had the presence of mind to tuck in my music box inspired sock design in my bag, I was able to knock out a few rows here and there.......

So...... I got to thinking, knitting (or crocheting) is a no fuss, easy set up, sneak a few minutes in here of there hobby.  Lets say I have 15 minutes to kill or wait.... Scrapbooking? That won't work, to much set up time, lots of tabletop space required, lots of equipment and not to mention the time to pack it back up.  Painting? to bulky, to messy and lots of set up/take down time.......by the time you get everything set up, your 15 minutes have passed......the same is true with pottery, weaving, stamp collecting and many others.

Don't get me wrong.... I admire all creative hobbies and those who are skilled at them.  I'm just saying that knitting (or crocheting) is perfect for filling random minutes thru the day. Pick it up, do a half a row, set it down and easy to pick it right back up from where you left it. There is no mandatory minimum amount of time.

I will also remember that if I only knit 15 minutes a day, it may take me months to finish a pair of socks.

 

music to my ears

Inspiration comes from all around us...... I really believe this.  So while strolling around town I spy this beautiful antique music box.

Of course, this evokes some fond and not so fond memories. I received a combination ballerina jewelry/music box for my 10th birthday, it was beautiful, it had a twirling ballerina, a clear cover to see the nibs of the music box and it was pink...... need I say more! 

Stop laughing.  

However, it looked nothing like the beautiful antique music box above. But the memory is still the same. 

I loved winding it and hearing the lovely tune, it was "Laura's Theme" and the ballerina twirl around. Over and over and over again.

Until disaster struck. After enjoying my pretty pink jewelry box for 3 days, my younger brother, who was five years old at the time, who obviously did not get the same enjoyment from the music box as I did and proceeded to break the beautiful twirling ballerina off her pedestal.  I was heartbroken. I think I even cried.... in fact, I know I did. My beautiful jewelry box was marred BUT, it still played "Laura's Theme" and I could still watch the nibs move along the cylinder. Delight still had.

Where am I going with this.....

Well the antique music box gave me an idea for a sock pattern (you knew it had to be something knitting, right?) and I will try to speed through it to show it to you in a later post.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

alas! it's finished

What started out as an inspiration of a pile of fishing nets

 

Has been swatched

 

 
 I selected the beautiful lace weight merino yarn for the shawl from Fearless Fiber in the colorway golden olive.  i really loved working with this yarn and it blocked beautifully. The scarf was knit out of fingering weight yarn like St. Denis Boreale.  Its a fun and extremely easy knitted lace design.  

The blocking was effortless, but quickly realized I needed to adjust the way I placed the pins;

so I could pronounce the gentle side scallops of the design without getting points. I moved the pins inside the scallop and the result was perfect.

 
 
 
This design will be available on Ravelry shortly, as soon as finish up the pdf. My goal is to have it up tonight.

I am calling it Portofino after the quaint but small Italian fishing village on the Italian Riviera.

 

Now for the unveiling.... pun intended.... of the shawl and scarf. 

A close up of the shawl, check out those pretty scalloped edges....

Ciao for now!

nearly done

Early morning is my favorite time to sit on the terrace, enjoying the sights and sounds of the city waking up,  with my freshly brewed Starbucks and of course, all while knitting.   And for this particular morning, it looks like my fishing nets inspired lace shawl design is nearly done. Check out the pics below.

 

 
 

 I can't wait to finish it, get it blocked, pattern written and then posting the pattern in Ravelry.

ramblings

Two weeks of family visits, Xanders's 1st birthday party and a holiday, call for a little  decompression time.....better know as a self-proclaimed knit break.

Some updates:

My latest lace shawl design is more than halfway completed, so onto the final stretch. Here are some unblocked pic. ( I kind of hate to share this, because once its blocked it will look dramatically different.

 

Aside from a rouge scissors mishap requiring some emergency "drop-everything-repair", everything is going very well and I'm extremely pleased with the outcome. Quite frankly, I can't wait to publish it.

My traveling sock has not really gotten out of its project bag, since most of my traveling has been tied up in errands and multiple trips to Target, Walgreen's and Whole Foods for party and everyday necessities.

Of course, I have to share at least one picturefrom Xanders 1st Birthday party

interruptions interrupted

 Do your interruptions ever get interrupted? If not, lucky for you.....because it happens all the time to me.  OR perhaps its just that gift giving dates sneak up on me.

After coming down from my tunisian crochet frenzy, I was all set to get serious about completeing my latest wrap design. THEN......I realized that my Mom's birthday was a week and a half away. OH NO!!!!

I decided to try to knit up my Bubbles design as a summer scarf for her. I'm using a linen lace that she can accessorize with in the summer and during her snowbird winters.  I personally love the color and I think she will too.

 I started it this morning, I will give it till the weekend to see if I can manage to get it completed in time......otherwise its off to Amazon.

an action packed fun filled day

Starting early and ending late was the hallmark of this first day of market. We actually didn't go to the market, but

• attended 5 classes,
• attended a retailers meeting and luncheon, 
• listened to a speaker on customer service, 
• got to take some sneak peeks at new products,
• ate vietnamese food,
• met some designers at a cocktail party,
• attended the TNNA awards,
• the Fall 2010 Fashion show
• and bailed on the ice cream social.

Overall most of the classes were great.  My favorites were learning how to Tunisian crochet and the Vogue Fall 2010 Color and Trend forecast.

Pretty cool, huh?

The retailers luncheon was tasty, the speaker had some good things to say but overall kind of lame. Did I mention the luncheon was yummy?

See what I mean. Tasty!

Next are some of the pre - market previews that are set up to tease us and build up anticipation for the Saturday kick off. The pictures below are in no particular order and just a sampling of some of the things we previewed.

 

This is OMG Yarn , its 40% Sugar (rayon from sugar cane) 60% Merino

 Retractable circulars....wow wee

Vicki messing up the vendors displays....can't take her anywhere... ha ha ha

The evening was filled with awards and Fashion Show.  I only got a few picks of some of the gorgeous garments out of the 98 garments in the show.

That's it for hot off the presses from beautiful downtown Columbus Ohio.

Saturday is the kick off of the market, BUT camera's are not permitted on the show floor...boohoo...so thats it for the pics.

Have a great weekend.

Cheers.