the knitting buzz

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!

 

 

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!

 

 

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!

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!"

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....

 

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!

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.

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.

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!!!

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".

 

summer lace rib scarf pattern

I'm on a mission to make a "dent" in my fingering weight/ sock yarn.......its beyond bountiful......there is so much it just might exceed my life expectancy. Seriously...

I love sock yarn for lots of reasons.....its a single hank with generous yardage ranging usually from 400 - 450 yards of goodness. I am a love the gorgeous hand dyes and become weak in the knees when it comes to the MCN or MCS varieties (Merino/Cashmere/Nylon or Merino/Cashmere/Silk, respectively).

Besides socks, it can be easily knit into a scarf, a hat, a cowl and if I'm lucky enough of having two or more in the same color/dye lot, it can be a wrap/shawl or even a lightweight cardi.

It all started with the Charlize Shawlette by Vanessa Smith, a fun neck scarf that can be worn year round.

I want to share another..... my Summer Lace Rib Scarf. a fun decorative piece that can be used as an accessory as well as ward off a chill when the AC is too cold.

 

Summer Lace Rib - Free Pattern

Skill level - Easy

• Yarn: Shown in Fingering weight (any weight yarn can be used)
• Needle: US#7 - US #9  for Fingering 
• Gauge: Doesn't really matter here for a scarf

Stitches used: k (knit), p (purl), yo (yarn over), sk2p (slip 1 st knitwise, k2tog, psso)

 

Cast on 29 (or any multiple of 4 + 1)

Row 1  Purl

Row 2  K1, *yo, sk2p, yo, k1 ..... repeat from * to end of row

Knit to desired length, ending with Row 1.

Bind off *p2tog, slip purled st from right hand needle to left hand needle.....repeat till all sts are bound off.

 
I chose not to block this scarf to keep a more casual look and to focus on the color play.

Here is a couple of shots where I spread the stitches out a bit to see the stitch pattern up close.

 

 

Its knit out of Creatively Dyed Yarn Calypso, You can easily find Dianne (owner of Creatively Dyed) at Fiber Shows, like Stitches and Midwest Folk and Fiber Festival (the website does not do justice to her beautiful work and technique).

 

and then there were two

Charlize Shawlette is finished and on the blocking board. I think it turned out quite nice, even with some initial struggles. Its a great and quick way to get thru some of the growing stash of fingering weight/sock yarn that I have accumulated. I knit it with Madelintosh Tosh Merino Light, color Norway Spruce. The second photo is truer to the actual color, the first appears a bit washed out.

 

 

 

 

It will make a nice gift for someone special, so nice that I have already started Charlize #2, for another special someone. This one I am knitting in Malabrigo Sock, color Alcaucil. So far NONE of the initial struggles with this pattern, clearly it was me, the pattern is written beautifully.

 

My wrap that I'm knitting with the Incredible "It's Native" from Dream in Color has been on a little hiatus. I guess the quickness and ease of Charlize was a welcomed break.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

simple, yet humbling

My Charlize Shawl knitting project is coming along nicely, but I have had my fair share of humbling moments.

It was the perfect travel project and the pattern is very well written. 

"So what's so humbling?", you may ask.....  the humbling moment comes from the actual simplicity of the pattern and my own confidence or rather over confidence of the rhythm of the stitches. The ace lpattern utilizes yo, k and sk2p. In the long repeats I found that psso sometimes got missed throwing the stitch count off. Disaster could have easily been diverted on the purl back row if by paying attention that inbetween every stitch is a yo.... lesson learned.

I chalk it up to all the talking, laughing and having such a good time on the train ...... translation: not paying attention.

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....

sage advice

Did you ever have one of those weeks that no matter what knitting you picked up you ended up ripping out stitches, repeats or total rows.  Well I just got off of one of those "off" weeks.  Thank goodness its over for now!!! 

 I started, started, started  a knitted lace wrap/shawl with the ever so beautiful Dream in Color It's Native lace weight yarn.  No its not a typo and I didn't stutter.

After ripping out (frogging) 20+ rows of knitted lace THREE TIMES, I thought it was time to practice what I preach.  Apparently I was getting a little "cocky" and didn't find the need to count my stitches after each repeat and sadly suffered the consequences.

 

But now, after taking my own sage advice, counting each repeat before starting the next has proven successful and .... now making some progress.

distracted or too many pretty things

Its not possible to have TOO MANY pretty things, so it must be distractions or my knitting ideas far out pace my actual knitting.

I'm blessed with having multiple hanks of Wollmeise Lace Garn (its heavenly) and I promised myself that my next project would be with Wollmeise. 

 

THEN, I got a new pair of green shoes and how does this relate to knitting? Well, a coordinating lace scarf or wrap would be just the ticket to complete the ensemble....right? 

 
 

I don't have the right green in my Wollmeise stash to compliment the shoes....SOOOO... I was on a mission to find the right green.  And I did.  I found two beautiful hanks of Madelintosh Tosh Lace yarn in the color Thyme.....perfect.

 

Now here is where it gets messy..... I received a sample hank of the new lace yarn from Dream in Color It's Native Lace Yarn and its double heaven.  In fact, I think I died and went to heaven.  Its American Merino and American Mohair that is spun in the US and dyed by the Color Masters at Dream in Color. A veil dye technique that neither landscapes or pools... guarenteed beautiful every time.

 

Lets put it this way..... its so nice, I abandoned all of my previous great ideas to work with it..... Really, who could resist?

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.

more about knitted lace

As a followup to a previous post about the difference between knitted lace and lace knitting.....

Knitted Lace is the lace fabric that is knitted utilizing holes/yarnovers and corresponding decreases to form the lace pattern. It provides us the opportunity to give the pattern more defininition,  where it kind of "jumps off the page".

The additional rows of yarnovers used on the wrong side,  give the pattern more holes or  a lacey feel. But the decreases can add further definition to the design.  The trick of it all is in the decreases..... and in particular its the decreases that are knitted through the backloop.  Utilizing the backloop, twists the stitch resulting in a raised effect.  When these are done in succession over several rows it creates a defined edge or line in the design.

Here are some tips for mastering this technique.

Decreases thru the backloop.

p2togb - Purl two stitches together as one through the backloop.   With yarn in front, insert the right needle from the left into the backloops of the second and first stitches, in that order. Then wrap yarn around the needle in front to complete the stitch.

Note: some knitters find this too awkward to work.  If that is the case, the same effect can be gotten by purling one stitch, slip that stich back onto the left needle, with the right needle lift the next stitch over the purled stitch and off the needle, then slip the same stitch back to the right hand needle and continue.

Double decreases through the backloop.

p3togb - Purl three stitches as one through the backloop.  This is done the same as p2togb but with 3 stitches instead of 2.

s2pp2 - sl2 p1 p2sso - Slip 2 purl 1 pass slipped stiches over. This double decrease on the wrong side produces a dominant central stich on the right side or a defined point. With yarn in front, insert the right needle into the backs of the second and first stitch on the left needle, in that order at the same time, as if to p2togb,  and slip them from the left needle to the right needle. Purl the next stitch on the left needle, then insert the left needle into the two slipped stitches together, at the same time and pass them over the purled stitch and off the right needle.

The s2pp2 is not commonly done, but when it is used it produces a beautiful and distinctive pointed stitch.

More later...... as always ......Happy Knitting!

finishing up, means its time to start up

Venetia Lace Shawl/Wrap is nearly finished ...hooray....I am on the final lace knit border, then onto the outer edge, bind off, soak and off to the blocking board.    Even admist all the distrative swatching for my "next" project, my Venetia Wrap is nearly done and I am looking forward to sporting it around town. 

 

The "need" to start swatching for the next project got me thinking.  Why am I compelled to do this even though the current project is  NOT finished?  It seems that the thought of going project-less weighs on me for some unknown (to me) reason.  I'm sure there is some psychological term for it, OR perhaps its just the theory.....If you don't know where you are going you will probably end up some place else.

Which brings up another issue.  Not being project-less also means that I tend to be in a constant "scout" mode when it comes to finding the "perfect" yarn......which could be interpreted that I may on occassion buy entirely too much yarn.....usually of the  lace and fingering weight variety. 

Now that's just absurd......there is no such thing as too much yarn.   Denial is a river in Egypt, right?

knitted lace vs. lace knitting

Did you know there was a difference?  Or more importantly..... did you care? 

It's true! Really.  After much reading, it appears that it is generally accepted that Lace Knitting is defined as a knitted fabric where there is a row of plain knitting (usually the wrong side/purl row) worked alternately with a row of knitted holes/yarnovers and decreases made in various patterns. 

Knitted Lace is knitted fabric where there are holes/yarnovers and corresponding decreases are made on every row. Giving more definition to a lace pattern utilizing stitches like p2tog, p2togb. p3tog, p3togb, sp2p, and s2pp2. I'll post more about these stitches later.

The easiest way to tell the difference that the strands separating the holes/yarnovers in lace kniiting are twisted. Where is knitted lace the strands appear more in a suspended manner and not twisted.

In this closeup photo of the Kalokairi Lace Wrap, both examples are exhibited in one piece.  The wave or leaf looking pattern is knitted lace or worked in pattern on both the front or right side and the back or wrong side.  Notice how the strands inbetween the holes/yarnovers are straight, without any twists. 

While the rows of faggoting separating, the wave pattern, are twisted and form distinctively round holes or lace knitting.

For me, I get the difference, but find the terminology confusing at best, and easily mixed up.

My philosophy is ...... just keep knitting knitted lace and lace knitting!  =-)

Happy 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!

 

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

 

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.

tools

"The tools you choose decides if the job will be easy or difficult. " 

This is a quote from my Dad from along time ago.  He is a retired architect and builder.  Of course he was talking about building tools & materials, like hammers & nails..... but I believe this is true for just about anything.

Knitting tools are no exception. Skill level will also play a huge role on the outcome of the tool.  Take for instance, Signature Needles. They are perfect for lace knitting due to the stiletto point and did you know, that 300 lace stitches will fit on a 7" straight needle. I love that!  The stiletto point and the slick finish make knitting effortless.They are, in my humble opinion, the best. BUT, they should probably come with a bit of a warning, they are not for everyone....the super slick finish can prove to be problematic for a newer knitter. They take some getting used to and totally worth the learning curve.

Addi Lace Circular Needles by Skacel are a great edition to any needle collection.  They offer a  pointy tip (not stiletto pointy, but more pointy than turbo's) and needles have a brass finish, which is somewhat slowing, giving the knitter more control.  This finish is great for slippery yarns & lace knitting. Whether you are new to lace knitting or a pro, you can appreciate these needles. Some prefer them over other needles just because of the pointy tip.

Addi Lace Clicks are an interchangeable needle set, but are slightly different than the Addi Lace Circular needles mentioned above.  They come with the same pointy tip but the finish is similar to the turbo finish. This is perfect for the individual who is ready for the Signature speed without the Signature pocket book or for the Addi Turbo lover who would prefer a pointy tip instead of the blunt tip.

So hen its all said and done..... its always about the tools.  In my humble opinion..... Tools are like shoes, the more the better.

Happy Knitting!

feels good

I was able to get a couple of knitted projects completed, which always feels good and some swatches knit on some future designs, which also feels good, and made some progress on at least one big project, which also feels quite good.

So, I am happy to report, I'm in a feel good kind of way. Which is where I totally need to be with the looming gift projects I have committed to knitting. I have only committed these knitted projects to myself....I have learned the hard way to stay as elusive as possible and avoiding disappointment on the receivers end and angst on my end.

 

I finished my plum scarf or rather, as noted previously, my drunken lace scarf to go with a taupe colored jacket.  I think this is the first time, that I didn't rip out knitting that initially I didn't care for but it ended up growing on me as I pressed on. 

 

I will add it to available patterns on Ravelry

And my first pair of wee socks for my love, Xander. I think the yarn, Filatura di Crosa Zarina makes up a super cute lil' man's sock.

 

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.

something plum

Can't wait to get started on my plum colored lace scarf. And yes, it is a distraction from The Great Blanket Race.....it was only a matter of time. 

Once upon a time....when I knit something lacy for the first time, like many first lace projects was a feather and fan pattern. It was made out of the same type of yarn but in a pretty deep green color with some flecks of blue.  I lost/left my precious feather and fan scarf in a taxi.

In fond memory of that lost scarf, my thoughts were to knit something similar. 

Although looking at it now, it looks more like "drunken lace". Torn whether I should rip it out and start over or proceed with my drunken lace.  More later....

 

yearning for something plum

Or perhaps a rich wine color. I have this taupe jacket, which is not a particularly attractive color.... on me, that is. I am thinking a shade of plum or wine may be the answer.

So of course, my answer is a knitted lace scarf. Its usually always something knitted and lately always lace. In doing the due diligence of checking my stash first (I knew there would be nothing that would work, but of course must pay homage) for the perfect shade of plum wine. I actually find one. And its actually the oldest lace hank in my stash.....can you believe it?  I know I couldn't..... what a happy find.....kind of like a treasure. Stash to the rescue!!!

The colorway is Vineyard and its a heathered 100% Merino Wool....sounds perfect right!

I remember when I purchased it I bought 2 colors, 2 hanks each, but I can only find one AND I know I have not used its mate. So now I must go on a search and rescue mission to deep dark closet that holds an unmentionable number of stackable plastic bins that holds and protects my collection.

I have searched and searched through all the places that I think it could possibly be and can not find hank #2 anywhere. Rats!

But wait..... my hank is stated to have 440 yards..... I should be able to get a respectable scarf out of 440 yards. Now what will it be?  Hmmmm????

 

disappointing book

Have you ever bought a book with high expectations only to be sorely disappointed once you got it? 

That has been my experience with the "Vogue Knitting Stitchionary #5 Lace".

 

Granted, I am not a book critic or reviewer by any means, but I am a book lover, I love to knit and I love to knit lace. And I liked the previous Stitchionary series.

Here are my disappointments.....

• many swatches knitted in a dark yarn, making it nearly impossible to see the stitch definition.
• none of the swatches are blocked (this is incredibly important for lace) and again making it extremely difficult to see the stitch pattern.
• lacked newness, many of the stitch patterns were in the previous Vogue Knitting Stitchionaries 1 & 2. What's the point?
• lastly, on the cover it is tauted as "the ultimate stitch dictionary from the editors of Vogue Knitting Magazine". Really?

When I spend my hard earned money on a book of stitches,  I think its fair to expect that one should be able to see the stitches clearly......especially if its the ultimate. 

So perhaps I am a book critic or just critical of publishers who feel they can "pull the (proverbial) wool over my eyes".....pun intended..... I crack myself up.

And don't get me started on Debbie Bliss.

 

 

 

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.....

 

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
!

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!

midwest fiber and folk fair

Journeys of the traveling sock.....

 

This weekend was theMidwest Fiber and Folk Fairin Greyslake IL.  Meg, Audrey and I rented a car and whisked ourselves out of the city and into the county. This was my first Fiber Fair and it was truly a treat.

There were 134 exhibitors showing beautiful  fiber (Megs favorite), spinning wheels (Audrey wants one), weaving supplies (Meg is totally into it) and YARN (my personal obsession), especially some of the amazing hand dyed ones, as well as, the sheer beauty  of the spun fiber in its natural color.

 
   

While Audrey was taking a test drive on some spinning wheels.

I had the extreme pleasure of meeting Kimber from Fiber Optics and instantly fell in love with her fiber, sock and lace yarn. Her dye work is breathtaking.

I wasn't expecting to see any animals, but had the pleasure of seeing a couple of darling alpacas and one giant angora rabbit.

It was a perfect day with a perfect ending, check out this sunset..... with the promise of a beautiful tomorrow...... "red sky by night, sailors delight....."

  

 

 

 .

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.

hooked

I had mentioned previously that I learned how to Tunisian Crochet in a class at TNNA. Well now I'm hooked....ba-dum-bump.

Since I have been home I have made 8face cloths. Most are in the Tunisian basic stitch and one is crocheted. They go so fast and I love the stitch pattern and the fabric it produces. Did I need to make face cloths? No .....but it did inspire some gifts.... so watch out....one may be for you.

Several are already gift wrapped and ready to go....

Its time for me to get back to lace knitting and my fishing nets inspired shawl.  After about a good 24" or better I came to the harsh realization that it was really coming out too wide and I wouldn't have enough yarn. The horror! And yes, I riped it all out with the plans to start again.  Since this was not my first time to start over, I managed to stay strong and not burst into uncontrollable sobbing. But it did open the door, to possible changing my yarn choice......

So with one repeat underr my belt, I am still toying with the idea of another yarn selection.....or should I make two...

This is always dangerous for me.

off to Columbus

 

The day started off with a beautiful sky. It was destined to be a great day. Our flight to Columbus was perfect and better yet, uneventful. Got to work on the sock and ready to start it mate,

Some perks of the day were finding jeni's splendid ice cream and oohhh what a find.

 
 Vicki and I did a lot of sampling but couldn't resist getting a scoop or two or three or.....

I had to get the Queen City Cayenne, its so unusual, starts out sweet & very yummy and closes with a very spicy bite. Only a Cincinnati girl (or boy) could truly appreciate this love fest.

Its the dark chocolate one in the back.

After some planning and getting a global overview of the market, it was time to head to dinner. We decided to hit a Mexican joint, La Fogata Grill.  I had the most delicious fish tacos.....boy, do I love fish tacos..... but these were exceptional. Deeeelicious!

Now.....   I would be totally  remiss, if I didn't mention  Michelada .....ooolala. This is where Mr. Dos Equis meets the handmade spicy Bloody Mary . That's what I'm talking about. It was my first and looking forward to a second. I only had one since I have a super long day tomorrow, but I enjoyed every drop.

So that is my epicurean journey in Columbus.

 

 

so sad

Amidst myfinal packing to leave for TNNA in Columbus, I was re-evaluating my knitting projects that I was planning to take with me.  And that's when it happened.... I decided the shawl, inspired by the fishing nets on the seashore, was too wide and came to the realization that I just may not have enough yarn (currently have 1650 yards of gorgeous merino lace-weight from fearless fibers). Proceeded to riped out 20 inches or more of beautiful lace work ( if I don't mind saying so myself...heehee)

The good news is that I have casted on and started knitting again. Pick yourself up, dust yourself off and start all over again. And keep your fingers crossed.....

So off to TNNA I will go with plenty of knitting =)......

Getting ready to head to Columbus

This week I leave for Columbus to go to TNNA (The National Needlearts Association) to buy for Fall 2010 yarn, needles, notions, books, meeting authors and checking out lots of other goodies....but mostly the yarn .....oh the yummy yarn. Yes, its true I get excited and even moved by yarn. I'm sure there is something that I can take for this....  but..... why?

Aside from anticipations of all the new things that we will offer this fall, there is that special anticipation of taking a well deserved break at jeni's ice cream. I can't wait to try the Queen City Cayenne Ice Cream, its fashioned after Cincinnati style chili ( what could be better than that). Check out the description.... "Rich chocolate reveals a wallop of back-of-the-throat spice. Finish is tingly and complex." That's what I'm talking about!

Besides packing for the trip, getting the desperately needed haircut and  mani/pedi; there is the bigger desicion....   determining which knitting projects to take. Seriously!

 

Definitely have to finish knitting Katie's Heather Socks...... sadly I will be in Columbus for her birthday but plan to celebrate it when I get back. This is sock #1, so I'm planning on getting it finished so I can give it to her when I return and celebrate her birthday. So socks are the priority,.

Secondly, I definitely want to make some progress on my fishing net inspired shawl. And lastly, I am also planning on taking a variety of yarn to do some preliminary swatching for some of my new design ideas. 

But getting the socks finished are a MUST.  I also reserve the right to sneak a stray wip in the ole knitting bag..... a girl just has to be prepared.

It's finished!

I did it! Thanks to a very rainy weekend in Chicago, I was able to get my latest knitted design finished, Villandry Garden Wrap.  I have not taken any new pics, since it still needs to be blocked. 

It's approximately 25" x 80" and took roughly between 1200 - 1300 yards of laceweight fine merino wool & Chinese tussah silk yarn. 

Now its time to take final pre & post blocking measurements, figure actual yardage used and block it, so its ready to be photographed.  Oh and officially write the knitting pattern to get it ready to sell.