the knitting buzz

distracted by color

Usually I tend to gravitate to yarns that are more tonal in naturefor myself,  but recently I was bitten by the Miss Babbs Yowza Whatta Skein bug. I'm not sure if its the generous 560 yards or the captivating colorways......or maybe its a bit of BOTH. 

One skein is enough yarn for a hat & scarf, or a hat & mittens. Honestly, I think this is all the justification I need.

 
Colorway: Deep Sea Jellyfish

 

Colorway : Suit and Tie

 

 Colorway : Train Ride

I have been on a 3 year NEED for a hat.  My old hat was warm and cozy but had seen some miles.  Hats are funny.  They don't take that long to knit, but for some reason for me, its an easy project to postpone.  Until now.....

I recently finished a Tam/Beret out of the Yowza in theTrain Ride colorway. and since I don't make hats that often for myself, it was a bit of a learning experience.  Here is what I learned:

1. my head is not as big as I thought it was
2. I don't need to make it quite as floppy
3. I will try another method for decreasing that is more subtle, perhaps the spiral decrease.

The good news is that.....

1. I will be ready for Winter 2012 with a new hat and have enough yarn leftover to make a matching scarf or mittens.
2. I am almost sure, I have gotten over my hat hurdle
3. I have two more untouched skeins of Miss Babbs Yowza to play around with......it doesn't get better than that!

Happy Hat Knitting!!!!

sweet georgia tough love sock yarn

Sweet Georgia Yarns are a nice find. 

Sweet Georgia is hand-dyed yarn out of Vancouver Candada. I especially like the Tough Love Sock yarn, cute name for a sock yarn.  It's an 80% superwash merino wool & 20% nylon fingering weight yarn, 425 yards, I chose colorway Lakeshore Drive. Sadly, the photo of my finished socks does not do it justice.

Sweet Geogia's photo is much better.

 

 

These socks were apart of a birthday gift.  They were planned to match up a color theme of bright turquoise blue and bright green. 

I hazard to share the story....because it just may confirm something ...... about me. YIKES!

It all started with a Dodo case for the iPad....so socks are always a natural choice as a gift compliment, right? ......not really...... but for those of you who know..... I know you understand.

Fun right?

I also added a couple of knit tops in the same colors.   Yes, that's right.....everyone wants to match there Dodocase to their outfit to their socks.  My dear friend is such a good sport.......

But it really didn't end there....... while in Target, I found a perfectly matching desk set of paperclips, binder clips and push pins...... which would coordinate with the Dodo case on her desk.......how geekey is that? (I wish I had taken a picture of them, because you wouldn't believe it)

AND.......you guessed it, they ended in the box too. 

My dear friend told me that she got a bit of ribbing over the coordinating desk accessories to her Dodo case.....but I'm guessing, she didn't share with her co-workers that she also had matching knit tops and socks that matched too. Who could blame her.

Moral of this story....

Choose your friends carefully....becasue you may end up with a friend like me....BEWARE!

 

 

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!

 

some hard lessons

My Carly Linen Lace Wrap has been finished for a couple of weeks and I do love it.... EXCEPT.... I made a couple of grave errors.

First of all, I determined the knit finished length based on past lace wraps and didn't take into account that the linen doesn't stretch like wool blends.  Soooo.....its really shorter than I would like.

So for the past week and a half, I have had it draped over a door, perhaps hoping it would stretch..... to no luck, I might add.

Till today, when I made the decision to take out the bind off and add the additional length that I truly desire.  This felt liberating, I had plenty of lace linen yarn left over and soon I would have the lace wrap I wanted. Right?  WRONG.

Which leads me to my second error....

Of course, I had woven in that end so well that it was impossible to find. So I decided to cut it, I have plenty of linen, no problem....right?

I don't no how to describe, without using a plethora of curse words, just how difficult it is to take apart the bind-off edge.  The linen lace has no give and of course I didn't do a simple bind off...............This may take the better part of today or days to do it.

Kind of reminds me of my Dad's words of wisdom......MEASURE TWICE, CUT ONCE.

In the long run, I knoiw I will be super happy. Stay tuned for some updated Carly pics.....hopefully soon.

In the meatime, here is a totally random picture for your enjoyment.....

He looks like how I'm feeling ......

Happy Knitting!

 

 

linen lace

I can't lie.....I am smitten with linen laceweight yarn. 

 

Especially Claudia Handpaint Linen Lace Yarn. It has amazing body and knits up beautifully with an open lacework pattern, like Carly. Each hank has 540 yards of handpainted linen, available in over 140 colorways......the choices or inspirations are endless. I chose the colorway Indian Turquoise for my Carly Lace Wrap project.

The linen lace will require little to no blocking and gets softer and more supple with use.

Wrapping up the details: The Carly Lace Wrap is knit with a US# 6 or 4.0 mm needle and I will probably use approx 1.5 hanks.

Its knitting up quickly......BONUS......I will post the finished project soon.

Happy Knitting!

sea shell inspired

When I'm at the beach, I love collecting sea shells .... in fact,  as long as I can remember, it was something I enjoyed doing with my family even as a kid. We went to Florida twice a year and at least one day of our vacation was combing the beaches looking for shells. 

Many times it was the search of the largest shell or a particular type of shell, but it always felt like a game or rather a treasure hunt. Some were harder to find than others, which made them the most coveted. I don't think I ever found a shell I didn't like..... sand dollars (not actually a shell & in my humble opinion the hardest to find), conch's, shark eyes, angel wings, slipper shell,  oyster, olive shells, cockle, babys ear, auger, chinese hat, scallop, starfish (also not a shell) and one of the easiest to find, the cats paw shell.    Just to name a few....

The many hours spent searchiung for shells inspired the knitted lace scarf design, Carly.  Carly is knit using a lacey cluster stitch that looks alot like the cats paw shell ..... at least, to my eye.

Carly Lace Scarf is a quick weekend knit. Its knit with just one ball of S.Charles Crystal Yarn.  Crystal is a laceweight metallic yarn with pre-strung sequins.  The bit of glitter looks great on Carly. 

I like this pattern so much that I think it could be a great wrap/shawl too.  

Stay tuned ..... news at 11.

Happy Knitting!

 

 

carlisle lace wrap KAL

Tomorrow (March 16th) is the start of the Carlisle Lace Wrap or Scarf KAL (Knit-a-long) at Loopy Yarns, Chicago.  We are meeting for 8 weeks to knit this wrap.

 Carlisle's design comes to life utilizing twisted stitches to emphasize the light and airy chevron pattern. I rarely get the opportunity to make a second lace wrap, so I am looking forward to this KAL myself.

 

The big decision is what yarn to choose.  My laceweight yarn stash is almost embarrassing.... I said ALMOST.  

I have been toying with lots of options, the amount of yardage is critical for me because I want to make it long and drapey.  Color is the next factor.....this is more an emotional decision.....what I'm feeling and what I will wear it with......what shoes.....will I need new shoes.....the answer to this question is always YES.  Then there is practicality......which is where I am leaning.  By practicality, I am referring to utilizing some lace yarns that had been previously wound into a ball for a prior project, but then abandoned due to change of heart or change of mind based on how the yarn knit up.

I am deciding between Mountain Colors Winter Lace in Teal Blue or Wollmeise Lace Garn in a Purpley color.  I have swatched up both and both look great in the Carlisle Lace pattern, once I found the best needle size. 

Originally, I decided on the Winter Lace but as of this morning, I changed my mind and will use the Wollmeise.   What you don't know....is that I am working on another design in a beautiful Linen Lace yarn that is named Indian Turquoise  .......very similar to the Teal Blue.   I know myself, I may not finish Carlisle #2 if I get to tired of working on the same color. I know this sounds crazy, but its true.  So Purple it is!

 

SPEAKING OF CRAZY.....................................

Normally, I am not obsessed about the weather, but yesterday it was 80 degrees and today its in the 70's......its March .....in Chicago.  And the next 10 days look the same.  Wow wee. So much better that the expected 40 - 60 degree temperatures. I have been spending as much free time out and about or on the balcony. SWEET! 

 

BACK to the KAL........

If you want to join the KAL, contact Loopy Yarns to reserve your seat.  Or if you just want to follow along online, I will be posting updates.

Happy Knitting!!!!

 

pebbly mesh lace wrap & scarf

The deconstructed - reconstructed Pebbly Mesh Lace Wrap & Scarf is finished, blocked, written and now published.  

The pattern is available on Ravelry.com. Its an allover mesh design with a simple garter border.  Its knit in a laceweight yarn from Fiber Optics Yarns in 100% merino wool, colorway Espresso. I love Kimber Baldwin's (Fiber Optics) hand-dying techniques......genius!

To open up the mesh pattern it does require a full block.  However, without blocking it is a somewhat open pebbly textured knit.

Still enjoying the warm temps....  this Wednesday its forecated to be 79 degrees ..... in Chicago.....  in MARCH.   Sweet!

twitchy

I don't know what it is ..... but I'm getting twitchy.

My Pebbly Mesh Shawl is about 70% complete in length or about 50 inches long.  I should be driven to get it completed, the end is near. And I am anxious to get it finished........BUT...... I find myself getting distracted by yarn  ......especially newly purchased lace yarn......

and the thoughts of casting on another lace shawl/wrap or even a scarf. 

I find myself matching up the yarn to the design, only to get twitch twitch twichy fingers to want to start winding the yarn into a ball and grab for another set of needles.

F O C U S

But which color first...... should it be the beautiful coral or the blue green or the marine blue or the mossy green or the steely blue.....

F O C U S

F O C U S

F O C U S

You have to admit..... they are pretty.  Does James Brown get down?

RIGHT!!!!

Back to the Pebbly Mesh Lace Wrap/Scarf...... it will be done before I know it.

Happy Knitting!

latest mesh update

My knitting focus has been on the reconstructed knitted mesh lace wrap. Its progress is around the halfway mark.  

Most design projects, I have the end in mind, before I even cast on.  Not this one..... perhaps because it was deconstructed/reconstructed from another point of view......but I find myself making changes to this one on a regular bases.

First I was going to make it very simple and clean.  (And it will still be able to be knit that way.....I will just have to photograph it in stages.) Now I am thinking it will look better by adding a simple crochet border. 

As for the latest development...... I am beginning to toy with the idea of adding some embellishments (QUICK... call the doctor.....this is totally out of character).  More on that later.....

For this pattern to work, like I see it in my head, it will need to go thru some extreme blocking. This should open up the pattern enough read "mesh".   Keeping my fingers crossed & saying a little prayer  that it all works.   I have decided to name it Pebbly Mesh Lace Wrap & Scarf. 

Since I don't have good pictures to share with you just yest on the Mesh Project.  Here is very random picture for your enjoyment......

There are never too many needles......Happy Knitting!

 

changed changes

Not even sure where to begin.... the knitted lace shawl/wrap design project that I started just after the first of the year has had so many adaptations that its beginning to make my head spin or maybe just hurt.

So this is my story of RE.... 

Rethink, Ripout, Redo, Ripout, Rework, Ripout, Revise, Revamp, Rewrite, Reconstruct, Readapt, Restart

It started with the idea of a very lacey shell-like center panel wrap style shawl with a very wide heavy border to give it more stability.  About 10" into the project, I decided I really didn't like it as much as I thought I would, so I ripped it out.

I decided I liked the idea of a wide border, but less heavy, so I incorporated a dense mesh stitch to replace the heavier border from before.  It was looking good, but then after about 12" into the project, I felt the borders now were too wide and made the open lace work look insignificant. 

So instead of ripping it out, I started with a different lace yarn to work on deconstructing the original idea and turning it into an entirely new idea.  Sheer and Mesh tops and coverups are all over the runway for late spring/summer.....so why not. 

With the new lace yarn I chose, I'm a little nervous about the yardage. Even though the yardage was a little over 1000 yards, I felt like I had to limit the width in order to get the length I desired out of the yarn (I really always need to buy at least 1200 to 1500+ yards, it makes things so much easier "down the road").

Even though I was now 18" into this new readapted pattern, I started wondering or rather second guessing myself that perhaps I should have used bigger needles.  So since I had quite a bit knit, I decided to do a premature wet block while on the needles. I am liking the effect I'm getting and I think this pattern will look good in a solid or a multi-colored yarn because of its mesh-nature. Thru this little "blocking" exercise, it looks like I should be able to get the width I had hoped for without sacrificing too much on the length. Although, going up a needle size would work nicely too.

While I am waiting for the newer yarn to dry, I started swatching another pattern with some Wollmeise Lace that I have.  The stitch pattern is looking good, BUT the yarn which looked like tones of purples and grays has way too many colors running thru it and is too distracting to the lace pattern.  It just won't work.  I also think I need to go down to a US#3 if I use Wollmeise for this pattern. 

Then I got to thinking,....... always dangerous.....since I'm still waiting for the mesh pattern to dry.....I could restart my mesh design in the Wollmeise lace that knits more open and has beautiful color changes.  This could be a win-win.  Making a quick swatch now to validate my theory.  More later.....

 

Now I haven't forgot about my original lacey shell pattern.  But I will be ripping it out.  While at TNNA, I found some yarns that will give my pattern  more stability without the heavy border.  Just waiting for the selections of yarns to arrive, then swatch,  before beginning that pattern.  I also think that instead of turning this into a wrap, it will be a pretty lacey  summer scarf.

 

Even though my Knitting New Year seems to have taken a slow start, I'm still energized. And......

I have a plan!

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!

easing into 2012

Easing into 2012 with a head full of ideas......

I've been planning, plotting and pining. Resting, relaxing and recharging.  Knitting and crocheting, finishing up some older projects, getting close to finishing others, swatching some new patterns and my favorite, casting on and starting some new design projects.  Definitely feeling like I have the mojo to see my plans into fruition and with intention.

My Green Shoe project, my Carlisle Lace Wrap and Scarf pattern is finished and on the blocking board. 

 

 

The Green Shoe Project all started because last Fall, I bought a cute pair of green shoes and had NOTHING to go with them.  Which started with a search for finding the "just right" shade of green yarn...... by the way, I now have three shawls worth of green yarn......oops....I may need to start looking for more green shoes.....its a "vicious" cycle. 

Then it was the perfect pattern for the yarn I found....that took a little longer than I would have expected......but Carlisle was born and now blocking.....SWEET! 

My Carlisle Wrap and my green shoes are ready for me to sport at TNNA in Phoenix.  So if you see me, give me a nudge, I'd love to say "Hi!"

new year project updates

Anxious to get started on my Intentional Journey, I have updates and finishing up of some projects or.....some proverbial housekeeping to do.

Carlisle Lace Wrap Pattern (the one that will go with my green shoes) is nearly completed and should be ready to be published by the end of the week.

Retro Ripple Afghan  (a told pic)....a tribute and fond memory of my Grandma, I love her so much..... is only 6 or so rows before my yarns runs out.  I am really anxious to finish it because its so warm and cozy.  If nothing else, motivated by the current  temps that are in the teens and 20's.  Brrrr.....   Once I finish, I do have a portion of the blanket that I will need to weave in ends (because not being an avid crocheter, I just learned the "trick" about how to weave in ends as you go....love that trick!).

Longaberger Sock Pattern a fun basketweave pattern that I havn't decided if I will publish or not. If there is enough interest, I certainly will put it out there.

 

Next knitted lace wrap/shawl that I have swatched and hanging in the wings is Carly. Carly Lace Wrap is a knitting pattern that reminds me of the seashore. I am making it in a pretty tonal teal color in Winter Lace by Mountain Colors.  Its when its cold and snow-y that my mind drifts to long walks on the seashore, sand between my toes and the warm glow of the sun.  Let's go!

 

That' it for now.....

Have a Happy and Prosperous New Year!

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!!!!

nose to the grindstone

Why is it? The happy thoughts of Christmas, holiday parties, holiday treats, the gathering of friends and family can easily turn one from happy & loving......to grinch-ey ....but  luckily......can turn back to happy & loving again.

It seems like every year, the thoughts of knitting gifts for my loved ones seems like an incredibly great idea..... BUT it never fails, once in the throws of my gift knitting I start feeling like my knitted gifts are more like chores (I don't really mean this, because I do love it). Adding pressure and tension by the looming deadline and sometimes even some resentment (I really don't mean this either, because I really do love it). That is, resenting that I'm not working on something lace or one of my own designs.

This year.  I have severely limited the amount of gifts I committed myself to knit.  Particially because I started much later than I would like to admit and secondly, I eliminated some projects/gifts that I had originally queued up, knowing that I just couldn't pull it off. 

But still like clockwork, I have gone through all of the positive as well, as negative emotions but am pleased to say, I am rounding the corner with and end in sight

12 Gifts completed.... 2 Gifts to finish knitting...... 2 Gifts to start knitting

 

KAL Stockholm Update

Completed Cowl using 2.3 hanks of Cascade 220.  I knit a 12" width verses 13" as written in the pattern.  It required little to no blocking......just a little misting to get all the stitches to "play nice".  It looks quite good and I think its recipient should love it.....

 

FOR YOUR ENJOYMENT, another random picture...... I don't know about you.....but I would love to find this under my Christmas Tree....... It's beautiful!

updates: KAL & more knitted gifts

My great plan to gets lots of gift knitting done over the Thanksgiving weekend ....... simply didn't happen.  

The actual knitting that I did do...... found me knitting interchangeably between 3 or 4 different projects at the same time.  Some small/quick projects got completed, giving the illusion that I was making some great progress.  While at the same time making my bigger project feel like I am running in place.  Talk about your ups and downs.

So, for in the what its worth department.......I have completed a pair of socks and a couple sets of crochet face-cloths similar to the Anthropologie Inspired Facecloths.

As for other updates:  

My Stockholm Cowl KAL is looking good but only 8 inches wide, its about 60% complete.

I have also started two more pair of socks. That all sounds good ...right? 

EXCEPT, that I still need to knit at least 3 more pairs of socks, another lace scarf and would like to squeeze a hat for myself in there, just because its starting to get c o l d.

Looks like it may be a rough finish......just keep knitting, just keep knitting....knitting....knitting.....

24 Knitting Days till Christmas......

Gifts Completed  ..... 7

 

Just wanted to share another random picture for your enjoyment....

Now that's a Happy Camper......ba dump bump.  I crack myself up!

 

best friend lace scarf

Happy Thanksgiving

 I love Thanksgiving..... it's my favorite holiday.  I love that it is  a time to be deliberate about are gratitude.  I have so much to be grateful for that I could go on all day.

I am so grateful for my my readers who endure my unending prose on knitting or related topics and even sometimes unrelated topics. Thank you. I am grateful for my many friends and family who both share my passion of knitting. And for those who don't understand what all the fuss is about when it comes to my knitting, that they at least enjoy or perhapas tolerate receiving hand knit items.

To express my gratitude to my readers....... I would like to share the pattern for my Best Friend Lace Scarf.

This lace scarf came about because my very best friend, who NEVER wears much in the way of accessories, not to mention a lacey scarf......shared a story with me that she wore one of my "cast-off" (my words, not hers) lace scarves to a work and got raves and tons of compliments.  She even went so far to say, that she liked it too.

What knitter needs more encouragement than that. Right?  Well around the same time she saw me working with a self-striping yarn (a scarf for Xander) that she also commented that she liked.

Soooo..... I put two and two together and knew I had some Jojoland Melody (color MS18) in my stash and thought she might like it.......resulting in my Best Friend Lace Scarf.

This pattern can be done with ANY weight yarn, adjusting the needle sizes accordingly.

Materials:  I used a 440 yards of fingering weight on US #6 needle.

Finished Size: 7" x 86" (length is your preference of course or determined about the amout of yarn you have.) 

Abbreviations: pm = place marker, k = knit, p = purl, yo = yarnover, k2tog = knit two stitches together as one, k2togtbl = knit two stitches together as one thru the back loops, sk2p = slip 1 stitch knitwise to right-hand needle, k2tog, pass slip stitch over just knit stitch.

Best Friend Lace Scarf Pattern 

The pattern has a 3 stitch garter edge on each side of the knitted pattern.  These stitches are not included in the pattern, except to pm (place markers) on the Set Up row.

Cast on 37 stitches. Knit 6 rows (Garter stitch).

Set up row: k3, pm, purl to last 3 stitches, pm, k3

Row 1: k1, *yo, k2togtbl, k1, k2tog yo, k1....... rep from * to pm

Row 2 and all EVEN rows: Purl

Row 3:  k1, *yo, k1, sk2p, k1, yo, k1.....rep from * to pm

Row 5: k1, *k2tog, yo, k1, yo, k2togtbl, k1......rep from * to pm

Row 7: k2tog, * k1, (yo, k1)2x, sk2p,......to last 5 stitches, k1, (yo, k1)2x, k2togtbl

Repeat rows 1 - 8 until desired length. Ending on Row 8. Knit 7 rows and bind off loosely as follows:

*p2tog, return this stitch from right hand needle to left hand needle ......repeat from * until all stitches have been bound off one at a time.

Weave in ends and block lightly.

 

Wishing you a Happy Thanksgiving......................and Thanks again!

 

31 Knitting Days till Christmas...........

Gifts Completed:  4

kal: stockholm scarf in the round

The Stockholm Scarf Knit-A-Long (KAL) is alive and kicking.   I have heard from several that there is some struggle with the instructions.

The gorgeous Stockholm Scarf Pattern by knittedblissJC (Julie) is available on Ravelry or at knittedbliss.com is written to be knit flat with some side notes for knitting in the round.  The side notes have resulted in many interpretations, with some different outcomes than the intended original. Since I'm not much for seaming anything, knitting it in the round is a must for me.  Here are my notes to knitting Stockholm Scarf in the round.

Cast on 252. Join in the round, being careful not to twist. Place marker to determine beginning of round.

Row 1: *k1, p1, k2, p3....repeat from * to end

Row 2: *k1, p1, k1, yo, k1, wyib sl1, p2, pass slip st. over two purl sts......rep frm * to end

Row 3: *k1, p1, k3, p2.....rep from * to end

Row 4: *k1, p1, wyif sl1, k2, pass slip st over two knit sts, p1, yo, p1....rep frm * to end

Repeat rows 1 - 4 to desired width

Abbreviations: k = knit, p = purl, yo = yarnove, sl = slip, st = stitch, wyib = with yarn in back

 

A side note, on my version I altered the original to get a slightly denser to get a warmer Windy City winter version. Altering cast on, yarn weight and needle size.  I added an additional repeat to account slightly for the smaller needle size.

Casted on 259 (multiple of 7 sts). using worsted weight yarn on U.S. # 9's

 

Happy Knitting!!!

 

34 Knitting Days til Christmas.......   

Gifts Completed:  2 (starting to freak out a little)

 

jane austen

 

Knitting to Jane.

My world has been opened up, thanks to Jane Austen Knits 2011 published by Interweave. 

At the risk of being ridiculed...... I must confess that I had not read one Jane Austen book OR watched any of the movies inspired by her novels.........UNTIL NOW.

This magazine peeked my interest and I sought out to find a Jane Austen audiobook from the Public Library. I just finished listening to "Emma". I was surprised to learn that one of the articles in the magazine referred to the movie "Clueless" as an adaptation or inspired by Emma. I confess its been a very long time since I have seen that movie, but not sure I get the connection.....I digress!

I thoroughly enjoyed listening and knitting to "Emma" (all 13 CD's). The characters are indeed interesting and the times that the story is set is quite intriging.  Can't really imagine living in such a fanciful way, but am loving hearing about the social ways of the times.  Looking forward to, engaging in, listening and knitting to more of Jane Austen's novels.

I have "Pride and Prejudice" on hold at the library and will queue it up soon.

Happy Knitting!

 

36 Knitting Days till Christmas........

GIFTS COMPLETED  2
 

stockholm cowl knit-a-long

I'm not sure what constitutes a knit-a-long, but Chris from Loopy Yarns and I have decided to start the Stockholm Cowl tomorrow, (the pattern is available on Ravelry.com).  Of course, this means I have to put the "pedal to the metal" or get my needles clicking to get my Best Friends Lace Scarf finished today. Will share pictures and pattern of my Best Friends Scarf soon.

My Stockholm Cowl will be a Christmas Gift and I am torn between making it out of Madelinetosh Tosh Vintage or Cascade 220. I know it seems like it should be a no brainer to knit it out of Tosh Vintage but it will end up being both a color/price decision. Most likely, I will make it in Cascade 220 to get the right shade of purple, Iris.......but still torn.

Chris, on the otherhand is going to make it for herself...... I'm so jealous.  Its such a gorgeous piece.

If you would like to join our knit-a-long, please join in.....I am always of the mind that the more the merrier.......we are starting it tomorrow (Thursday).......of course, once all the yarn desicions are made.  I have high hopes to complete it over the Thanksiving holiday

social knitting

I love getting together with friends and fellow knitters to knit, share, compare, learn.....and of course,.......gossip and solve the worlds problems.  Yes, I said gossip.....I always loved Olympia Dukakis' line in "Steel Magnolias",.........

"Well you know what they say:  if you don't have anything nice to say about anybody, come sit next to me".

 

I have been involved with knitting groups (commonly referred to "stitch n' bitch") that got together weekly, whether it was around lunchtime or in the evening, during the week or on the weekend.  I found I looked forward to it every week, to see the regulars and to meet newcomers.  Some times treats were shared, then recipes followed. But always a good time that seemed to end much to quickly......not to be trite, but time flys when you're having fun.

The evening groups sometimes got a little more social with the addition of ones preferred libation.  And as fun as this is, I have always found it to be a little dangerous to my knitting.  Or rather what I have to unknit/rip-out the day after.

So what's the harm in a glass of wine or a beer.....probably nothing.  But to delute the effects on my knitting and to be able to have more than just one (its like Lays potato chips, no one can have just one..... oops.....perhaps I have said too much), I have taken to finding the merits in a wine spritzer, a shandy (looking forward to trying this one) or a michelada to put the "social" back in social knitting.

A wine spritzer is a combination of red or white wine, sparkling soda and ice.  Making wine spritzers at home is a great way to reduce alcohol consumption and cut calorie intake too. Follow these easy steps to make your own wine spritzer:

• Combine 4 oz. (118 ml) red or white wine, 2 oz. (59 ml) club soda or seltzer water and ice cubes.  And if you are feeling extra fancy, add some fruit for a garnish.

A shandy is a combination of beer and ginger ale or 7-Up. Since I have not tried this one yet, I'm not sure if ice cubes are added or not.   To make your own shandy follow these easy steps:

• Combine 1/2 glass beer and 1/2 glass ginger ale.  Ice cubes optional.

A michelada is the cousin to the bloody mary, utilizing a beer base potentially less alcohol, but all the zip. I had this at TNNA and found it quite nice, but I think you have to like bloody mary's to appreciate it. Warning.....its kind of a big drink.  Follow this recipe to make a michelada at home.

• Combine 12 oz. of beer, juice of 1 lemon, 2 dashes of worcestershire sauce, 1 dash of soy sauce, 1 dash tabasco sauce, a pinch of pepper and salt to taste. Serve in a tall glass with lots of ice. Stir and enjoy.

Enjoy your knitting and stay social. 

 

And last but not least......a random photo for your enjoyment....

Keep on knitting, keep on knitting, knitting, knitting, knitting......

 

7 weeks till christmas

7 weeks or 48 days till Christmas Day.....OH MY!

As much as I talked about and thought (or rather, told myself) I was getting a jump on my holiday knitting...... I haven't.  YIKES!

Yesterday I finished knitting mittens and a scarf for Xander.  Not really a fair measure of knocking out some knitwear, since he is two years old and his knitted apparel is wee.  But none the less one done....check!

I knitted Xander's scarf and mitts out of Lang Tosca Light, a self striping yarn with long color repeats in colorway 777-16.  Its a superwash wool and acrylic blend.

In the next 7 weeks, I am going to shoot for knitting  2 to 3 pairs of knitted socks, a knitted lacey infinity scarf/cowl, a  knit hat and another scarf. I also think I better add an icord to Xanders mittens, otherwise they may not make it to the New Year.  Plus I want to continue knitting and working on some of my own designs.  I think my knit list is fairly do-able BUT I must......focus, focus, focus.

Stay tuned.....news at 11.

Happy Knitting!

love of audio books

"The man who does not read good books has no advantage over the man that can not read them."   ~ Mark Twain

Once upon a time ago, I would have considered myself fairly well read. 

After reacquainting myself with knitting and crocheting ......the needle arts took over my free time..... ok, true confessions.......it turned into an obsession.

I missed my books but not enough to choose it over knitting.  Then, on a flight to TNNA I spied Vicki, knitting and reading (on her Kindle) at the same time.  I must admit, I was jealous that she managed to do both.

Returning from the trip, I tried my hand at the multi-tasking and learned....... that Vicki was truly gifted......I couldn't do either well when combined.  But then I remembered that I used to love listening to books on tape during long car drives/rides, made the trip fly-by.

I quickly learned that buying audio books was crazy expensive. This is when I found myself at my local liabrary, to find an extensive selection of audio books.  I chose a few titles and headed home to engage in my two loves.

Ooooolala.....heaven.  Since July I have listened to 11 books and finally able to do both at the same time.   The only drawback I have is that I have to do it early in the morning or late at night while my house sleeps, otherwise its just too noisy.

I have had the opportunity to listen to books I have always wanted to read or have been introduced to authors from friends (thanks Chris), that I might not have known about.   I have also learned that an intense crime novel can make one knit faster.......funny right?

If you don't have time to go to the liabrary, most public liabraries allow you to hold or order up books online and then email you when they are in.   This works beautifully especially for more popular authors like Steig Larrson's "The girl who...." series.

Do what you love.....often....

May you find your heaven.......happy knitting!

 

And here is another random picture I wanted to share for your enjoyment......

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........

 

 

 

the 3 day mistake

It happened so quickly........everything "seemed" like it was going so well. 

Until I spotted it, two rows back, two side-by-side decresed done a stitch out of sequence. Within the intricacies of my knitted lace wrap, it all seemed so minimal and would not be noticed....right?  Besides to go back and fix them would have required me going back stitch by stitch or un-knitting. Every other stitch was a twisted (on purpose) stitch and the yarn seems to be-on-the-move when left unattended......therefore leaving me less confident to rip back.

So it was a judgement call..... right?  

So I proceeded to knit my heart out and two and a half repeats or 10 rows later came my "day of reckoning". My simple mistake looked HORRIBLE and stuck out like a "sore thumb".

How could I have made this blunder....... I totally know better.......OOFDAH!!!!!!

So instead of working unknitting stitch by stitch for 2 rows..... I now have a 10 ROW MISTAKE..... taking out each stitch one by one.

Oh....the shame.... OH THE PAIN....... and yes three days later, thats right, 3 days later, I fixed my mistake and am back to knitting...... more carefully, I might add.

Moral of this story...... 2 rows which seemed ever so painful at the moment, paled in comparison when it turned into 10. 

OR ....

A STICH IN TIME SAVES NINE!

 

Another random picture to share...... Enjoy!

 

Happy Knitting!

 

chevron, zigzag, ripple, herringbone, arrow, flamestitch, rick-rack

I have a slight obsession with the chevron pattern at the moment for the past year or so. 

 

Both in knitting and crochet patterns.  I can even pinpoint the start .......

 
it all started with my Retro Blanket,

 

in memory of the crochet afghan my sweet Grandma made for me when I was 16. My Retro Blanket is only 26 rows away from being complete. Why not finish it???? Its been put aside because its just too heavy and warm to work on...... I will finish it up as soon as we get some freezing temps.....not rushing that one. 

Since the Retro Blanket, other designs have surfaced and are completed, on the needles and in swatches.

 
Promanade Lace Wrap/Scarf. In mohair.

 

Gilded Sock pattern

 

Recently finished colorwork scarf (more later on this one)

 

 
Carlisle Lace Wrap/Scarf (more later). And some others that are just in the swatch phase.

That's alot of up and down patterns.    

I don't want to believe its because of a childhood thing....

 

 

of course not....... now that would be ridiculous.  I was always a Snoopy fan. Unless its just the many fond memories of my Grandma crocheting beautiful afghans for everyone she knew.

Perhaps there is no explanation.

But I love the chevron, zigzag, ripple, herringbone, flamestitch and rick-rack patterns regardless.

 

Happy Knitting and Crocheting!

Lastly, another random picture for your enjoyment....

 

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.

 

fan socks

My very best friend is a die-hard Steelers fan.  I'm talking wearing the jersey, t-shirt or sweatshirt boasting the Steelers insignia in black and gold and any other game gear that may be available on game day.....including sometimes pants, crocs with Steelers jibitz and the "terrible towel".  I'm not making this up......I promise.

On a side-note....(but related)

While at Stitches Midwest, I couldn't wait to meet Miss Babs and get some of her beautiful hand-dyed yarns.  I was focused on getting a couple hanks of fingering weight and a couple hanks of laceweight.

So I asked my dear sweet Steelers fan friend, if there was a colorway of fingering weight that she liked and I would knit her a pair of socks for Christmas.  And to my surprise, she found this colorway of Miss Babs Windsor Hand-Painted Sock yarn in colorway "black & gold".  Who knew???

  

My initial reaction was OOFDAH and somewhat dreaded knitting it. (Sorry Miss Babs, your yarns are spectacular).  Yet I knew this seemed to be the perfect colorway for my fanatical dear friend and would complete the head-to-toe tribute.

Inititally I wasn't really sure how they would knit up.  I must admit I was imagining a version of clown barf.

Instead, they are knitting up more like an optical illusion.  Miss Babs, YOU are brilliant!  I apologize for having any doubt. 

Since this is my toteable or mindless project, they may take awhile.  I hope the second sock performs similarly to the first.....fingers crossed.  More later....

This is the first of my holiday knitting. I have decided to knit far less than last year..... Don't get me wrong, I love giving hand-knitgifts (especially to those who relish them as well) but, I find deadline knitting very stressful. I really believe less stress is better for all involved.

Lastly, another RANDOM photo to share with you.......

 
 

Happy Knitting!



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!

are you ready for some football?

The start of the 2011 NFL Football Season is less than a week away. 

Its time to get your knitting/crochet projects ready for your Sunday & Monday night routine (and sometimes Thursday).  If you are lucky enough to live in a fanatic football household you know better than anyone that this can be some SERIOUS (sometimes uninterrupted) knitting time. 

 
If you don't consider your self lucky enough..... you may just not be looking at it from your knitting vantage point.

 

I believe there are THREE Styles of Football Knitting.  

The first style is the ADVOCATE.  This is the individual that love and lives for football, but still has the sensibility that its time that can also be productive for their other love.....knitting.  The Advocates choose projects that do not require them to look up. Self patterning yarn or hand-dyed yarns are favorites. Garter stitch scarves and stockinette socks are both good project choices.

Then there are the CONTENDERS.  This is the person that enjoys spending time with friends and family watching their favorite teams. They may not watch all day, but they are able to intermittently knit and watch, watch and knit. The Contenders choose projects that are moderately challenging to enable them to enjoy both the knitting and football experience. Many times the Contender will take this opportunity to work on projects in their teams colors.

And lastly, there are the PRETENDERS. You will know them when you see them. This is the person that only looks at football season as a time to knit without interruption.  They are happy to hang out with the Advocates because it means free knitting time from 11am till 9pm. The Pretenders choose more complicated projects like intricate lace, cables, fairile or gansey's. 

 

So it all starts this Thursday night, September 8th. Are you ready for some Football.....(knitting)?????

 

What will you be working on...... a  garter stitch scarf, or a ribbed hat in your teams colors, or a sweater or a lace shawl?

Happy Knitting and enjoy the game.

 

 
 How's that for random?  =-) 

 

its not easy being green

I am not really a green (the color) person by nature, but for some reason I have been in pursuit of green.  It all started with the infamous green shoes.  I have never owned green shoes before (until now) and I can't really explain why I had to have them ...... but I did....

So....this led to the search for the perfect green yarn for the perfect accessory to my beautiful green shoes. I found Madelintosh Tosh Lace in Thyme which I was sure to satisfy my accessory notion.

 

And recently started a knit lace wrap that I think will be perfect accessory and works perfectly with the yarn construction. (The Tosh Lace is tightly plied and knits up differently than other laceweight yarns I have worked with previously).

Then......dun dun dun duuunnnn....... there was Stitches Midwest.  Where I found myself drawn to more green laceweight yarn.   

 
 This is Ivy Brambles Romantica (above) 100% merino laceweight yarn in colorway Pine Tree (1000 yards per hank). My photo really doesn't do the color justice.  Anyway,  it is a perfect match to my shoes.

 
Then...... there was Miss Babs Yasmin Lace (above) 80% merino wool 20% tussah silk, 1250 yards in colorway Nori.  Which looks forest green in my picture, but is really more like a dark olive color. It doesn't match the shoes but it blends beautifully with them.

 

Now I have enough yarn for three knitted lace wraps.... in green..... to go with ONE pair of green shoes.  Got to ask the obvious question.......

Will this ONE pair of green shoes survive the knitting and wearing of THREE knitted lace wraps ......

OR......

are there more green shoes in my future?  I guess I could have worse problems....blush.


Enough about green!

 

On a separate topic..... I have decided to include in each post in the forseeable future a random picture (and I do mean random) of something I have seen or found that may or most likely may not have anything to do with anything......

Are you ready?

 

Happy Knitting!

 

 

 

 

wagtail mohair yarn

I have recently started knitting with Wagtail 100% Mohair 4ply yarn and enjoying every moment of it.  I have had a few hiccups and froggings upon first starting up.....all because of my own cockiness.

 
Mohair comes from the Angora goat and is known for the high luster and softness. It also has similar warming and felting characteristics as wool. Wagtail yarns are produced in Queensland, Austrailia. 

Knitting with 100% mohair is slipperier than I was prepared for and combined with Signature needles made it ripe for frogging.  After a couple of incidents, I switched over to Addi Lace needles which has made all the difference. 

 
I am loving this yarn, perhaps it should be called "Tail-Wagging" instead of Wagtail. I do apologize for the corn.

I can't wait to finish this project and parade it around town.  I figure it should be complete just in time for the autumn chill.  What could be better than wearing a mohair wrap and sipping a pumpkin spice latte......

OH NO......don't get me started on pumpkin spice latte ....... or pumpkin muffins ......or anything pumpkin......except pumpkin pie, have never been a fan of pumpkin pie, odd right?

 

smitten with mohair

Knitting with mohair has been a newer experience for me.  Primarily, dictated by my past misconceptions that it is scratchy.  And indeed, it can be scratchy, BUT it can also be incredibly silky and soft.  Its all about knowing what you are buying.

So with a little research, here is what I know about mohair.  Mohair is a silk-like yarn made from the hair of the Angora goat, a small good natured animal know for its long curls. (Not to be confused with Angora which comes from Angora Rabbits).

 

Mohair is one of the oldest textile fibers in use and is know for its strength, durability, resilience, warmth and high luster. The goats are sheared (without being harmed) twice a year.  As the goat ages, its hair becomes coarse and thus mohair is graded based on the age of the animal.

 

A superfine or fine mohair refers to the fiber from a kid and is usually the the animals first shearing.  This is also the softest and silkiest of the fiber grades. Kid Mohair which is also very soft can come from the animals second to third shearing.

Fiber sheared later, when the goat is an adult is either blended with other fibers. An older adult goats hair becomes coarser and used for its sturdiness in outerwear, rugs, carpets and upholstry.

 
 

The fibers halo seems to vary on different types of mohair, from subtle to almost hairy.  I have not been able to find out what causes the difference, but I'm guessing it may have to do with the age of the animal....just a guess.

Mohair is frequently blended with silk, merino or nylon.  But the softest & silkiest fiber can be experienced with 100% superfine or fine kid mohair.....oooo-lala.  More on 100% mohair in an upcoming post....

I got hooked on the luxury of mohair knitting with the laceweight yarn from Dream in Color, It's Native. Its Native is a blend of 52% U.S. superfine kid mohair and 48% U.S. superfine merino, which is grown in the U.S., spun in the U.S, and dyed in the U.S.  Its is extremely soft to the touch with a subtle halo. 

Knitting with mohair can feel a little slippery on the needles and may not suitable for a newer knitter. Mohair also has the reputation that it is impossible to rip out, to fix mistakes or back track.  I have not found that to be the case with It's Native experience. 

 

If you have not knit with mohair in awhile or are new to mohair, I encourage you to give it a spin.....you may just get hooked....it happened to me. 

some random updates

My knitting time seems to have taken a big cut..... so any free time I do get, I try to knit. Sometimes in the most unusual places.  This past weekend, I felt like I was on the go a bit more than usual. I wanted to make Xander a pair of socks, which was the perfect knitting project to tuck into my handbag and have ready to go. 

Probably the most unusual place I have ever knit was at a casino.  I'm not a gambler at all. In fact I find, if or when I have tried my hand at it, I tend to look at the lost money as lost things;  like I just lost a new pair of shoes or worse yet....YARN.

But what I recently learned is that people who frequent casinos.... stay away, far away from pointy sticks. Its almost like my knitting was a counterculture.  So for me, I got hours of uninterrupted knitting time in, with an occassional free drink delivered to me.  What could be better......

Project Updates......

 
Xander's socks should be finished in time for his birthday party. I knitting these with Cascade Heritage Paints Sock Yarn.

 

The lace wrap/scarf I have been knitting with It's Native by Dream in Color has enough yarn for about 2 more repeats before its complete.  I am anxious to get it on the blocking board.  I have decided to call it Glen Coe because the pattern reminds me of the hilly terrain.

 
I am on the foot of sock #2 out of Malabrigo Sock on my Guilded Sock Pattern (not published yet).

Feeling very independent, I broke out some Wagtail mohair that has been sitting in my stash. Its better than dessert!  More later on that one.

I have a few other project in the wings, but realistically I won't be pulling those out till Fall.

feeling independent

After celebrating the Fourth of July, I was feeling quite independent, perhaps even a little rebellious.

START AS MANY NEW PROJECTS AS I CAN..... that's my new motto.  I'm not talking about indiscriminately knitting any old thing with any old yarn. Instead, starting new mindful projects or new designs, as the creative burst arises. Keeping a steady stream of of creative energy flowing.  Throwing caution to the wind....

Previously, I tended to be stricter with myself, keeping the number of projectsto a minimum and focusing on finishing as many projects as possible.  This was practical, but I found myself spending hours and hours getting distracted by new ideas. Then frustrated by getting back to those few projects that needed finishing. 

Don't get me wrong. I do like to finish projects and I do like to wear them, use them or give them as much as the next person. BUT there is a point, when warding off starting new projects because of the pressing UFOs (unfinished objects) turned against me. Trampling all over new ideas, visions and the relative enthusiasm, all for the sake of finishing.

So..... when the idea/vision is matched up with the a great yarn, in a color that is just right..... that's when I will cast on the next project.  I will not wait till the three projects (figuratively speaking) are finished before starting something new. I won't put it on a list of design ideas for the future, I will do it now!

With this new found freedom, I have also entitled myself to NOT finish those projects that no longer thrill me or I'm not connected with the initial inspiration.  

Some projects deserve to saved and definitely will get finished because the desire and inspiration is still there. For the other projects, that I know deep down that they will never get finished..... I will either repurpose the yarn (if its worth saving) or simply destash/trash.

I feel liberated and refuse to feel hostage to the undone. I have decided to not feel a bit guilt when it comes to the undone..... life is too short.

Knit anything and everything you want! 

 

best of both

It's no surprise, I can be passionate about knitting.

I will knit just about anywhere.  I knit while watching television or dvd's. I knit while listening to speakers/lectures. I knit while I wait, (in the doctors office, in line, waiting to board....). I knit on the plane. I knit in the car or on a bus or on the train. (Starting to sound like "Green Eggs and Ham").  I thought about knitting at the movie theater, perfect for an early arrival, like the comfy seat.....but once the lights go down, it is kind of dark and gets in the way of the popcorn.

I always have knitting with me. I would like to think of it as making the minutes count.  Just never know when the next opportunity to knit a few more stitches or even a few rows may present itself.

But one thing I have never been able to master is to knit and read at the same time.  My friend, Vicki can do this and I thought it was such a wonderful idea.  I used to be an avid reader and actually would have considered myself well read, but that was before my knitting took on a life-form all its own. 

I have tried knitting while reading or reading while knitting multiple times and I don't know how she does it, but I just can't get the hang of it.  I seem to either lose my place in what I'm reading or lose my place in my knitting.  Resulting in spending more time finding my place, counting or unknitting.

UNTIL NOW..... I think I must be the last person on the planet to figure out that I can knit and LISTEN to books at the same time.  Audio Books....brilliant!  I have a whole new world (the best of both worlds) that has opened up to me and I LOVE IT!  

I'm fortunate that my local public library has an enormous selection of audio books.  The hardest decision is which ones to check out first.  I do crave to be well-read again. Books and knitting, I can do it! 

It's a good life!

heading to TNNA

Its that time again to pack my bags and head to Columbus for TNNA. 

Today is packed full of doing laundry, some chores and packing.  The hardest part of packing is to decide what knitting projects to take. Yes, that's right, it requires multiple projects.  This may seem crazy to some but it really does require a little thought, at least for me. 

This trip is 5 days loaded with classes, speakers, a fashion show and the most important part, the market.  Where there are thousands of booths to navigate to find the best products and yarns for this Fall and Winter.

So back to selecting the knitting projects to pack.

• I need some simple projects that I can do during the speaker luncheon and some of the classes. 
• I always like to take some more interesting or slightly more complicated projects for any down time (as long as there is no alcohol involved, never works for me).
• Need a project for the plane, that won't be taken away because of needles that are too pointy or circulars that are too long.

I usually seem to over compensate and take more projects than I can possibly work on.....visions of grandeur perhaps.

Truth be told, usually I will take the opportunity to use this as an  excuse a platform to start new projects.  And after about a week of swatching and not quite getting the desired effects I was looking for,...... I have decided to dig out some unfinished projects and use this time to reclaim some project bags from the dark corners of the closet.  This almost feels heroic..... oh my, way too much drama.

 
So I have decided to take 3 different sock projects (1 2nd sock and 2 1st socks), a crochet pillow cover project, the "Its Native" wrap/scarf (feeling very optimistic) and some linen lace to start another Bubbles.

I failed to mention that some time between now and class time, I have to complete 4 swatches as homework for two different classes, one on Thursday and the other on Friday. I think I will start the first one on the plane. 

Looks like my homework will cut into some knitting time. Better rethink the number of projects to pack.....just may be over zealous.

I will be sure to take lots of pictures to share with you and report back. 

More later.....

 

stash treasure

 I spied some Berroco Bonsai that I had stashed in a bronze-ish color. I've been wanting to make a summer scarf or something with it for at least a year or so. Bonsai is a ribbon/tape style yarn,  97% Bamboo, 3% Nylon,it has a nice sheen and somewhat drape-y.

Lightbulb goes on....bing bing bing..... and yes, you guessed it......another (or third) Dandelion Lace Scarf has emerged. I am knitting this scarf a little narrower,  with one less repeat and using a US# 9 knitting needle to open up the stitch.

  

The result looks less like dandelions and more like bunches of wheat sheaves. But I think it will show well all the same. And the best part is, it will done in time for TNNA.....sweet!

 

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.....

 

couldn't resist

That's right!

I just couldn't resist casting on another Dandelion Lace Scarf.  I had a second hank of Alisha Goes Around, Richness of Martens Fingering in PINK..... tell me who could resist???  Everyone looks great in PINK.

I did make a couple of changes, I am making this one slightly narrower and using a size larger needles. Translation.... I cast on 33 stitches on US#7. 

I think the more open stitches may eliminate blocking.... just a guess....stay tuned.....news at 11.

Happy Knitting!

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".

 

dandelions inspire

 
What is it about the dandelion?  Many consider it a pesky weed, a nuisance, especially if one shows up in your pristine lawn. And then, before you know it, more may be on there way, transformed from perky flower to the sculptural round white puff ball of seedlings that are carried away by the wind, like tiny parachutes.

 

Others consider it a valuable herb with many culinary and medical uses. Some use the leaves in salads or on sandwiches,  the roots can be found in some coffee substitutes & digestive aids, while the flowers have been used to make certain wines.

For me, I see them as beautiful, especially an entire field of the sunny yellow flowers. There is something about the color yellow that evokes happiness and joy.  So..... an entire field of dandelions can't help but make you smile.... unless of course its your front lawn. 

Its this stunning field of  sunny yellow blooming clusters that  is the inspiration for my next knitted lace scarf design.  Its on the needles ........ its making me so happy to knit it already......

Stay tuned for more photos and details on this new design.  Hope to get it done while the danelions are still around.