the knitting buzz

inspired by the hills

 

Inspired by the the beautiful rolling hills of the Scottish Highlands is my latest wrap design, Glencoe Lace Wrap. Its interpreted in graphic geometric nature of triangles and diamonds. Its available in 2 sizes, suitable for lace yardage of 100 yards to 1500 yards.

 

It can be knit in any weight yarn, but I favor the light and airiness of laceweight. The laceweight lends to the delicate nature and the Mare yarn gives the textured stitches a beautiful crisp effect.

Its knit in Deep Dyed Yarns, Lunabudknits, Mare Laceweight, 80% Merino Wool 20% Tussah Silk. Mare comes in 500 yard hanks.  The colorway is Young Grasshopper. Love, love, love the color! I purchased the yarn at the Kentucky Sheep and Wool Fest in Louisville, KY, but it is also available online.

The pattern is available online at  Ravelry.com and LoveKnitting.com.

This project has been set aside for a very long time due to surge of baby knitting gifts, holiday gifts and one very lovely alpaca distraction, the Serin Lace Wrap and Scarf.

 

What's on the needles?  

Two projects at the moment...... the start of my first holiday knitted gift (a toy) and another lace wrap.

More on this soon......

Until next time....

Happy Knitting!

finally

I really can't believe its been over 10 months since I started this project.  When I started this project, I couldn't wait to wear it because I loved the color and the color name "Young Grasshopper". 

Then after the proverbial "beating myself up", I took a look back at what happened in between and I've forgiven myself...

• 5 Baby Blankets
• 4 Baby Sweaters
• 2 Baby Booties
• a Baby Hat
• 2 Afghan Blankets
• Rickrack Reversible Cowl and 
• Serin Lace Wrap and Scarf

What happened?.....life happens..... or rather ......new babies, Christmas gifts and irresistible local alpaca yarn is what happens. Not to mention, I've moved twice and started a new job. Okay, ENOUGH!

I'm only a couple repeats away and determined to finish the knitting, blocking and the publishing of this pattern.  

Glencoe Lace Wrap is the name of this pattern, I chose that name because it reminds me of the rolling hills of Glencoe Scotland. And I couldn't resist the color. The yarn is LunabudKnits (Deep Dyed Yarns) Mare in the colorway Young Grasshopper.  I found Deep Dyed Yarns at the Kentucky Sheep and Fiber Festival in Lexington Kentucky and was smitten with the intensity of the dyed yarns. I know she attends many fiber shows but her yarn can also be found on Etsy as LunabudKnits!

    

LunabudKnits Mare is a laceweight yarn with one of my favorite blends, its 80% Merino Wool and 20% Tussah Silk.  The Tussah Silk gives it a crispness that compliments the graphic nature of this pattern.  Each hank is 500 yards and I purchased all she had that day which was 3 hanks. Would have preferred 4 but was determined to make 3 work.  Time will tell how I did with my estimations....fingers crossed.....stay tuned.   I know it won't have the length that normally strive for BUT THE COLOR, just couldn't dispute.

Yes, in this particular case, it was the color that drove the inspiration and those beautiful rolling hills.

Wish me luck, "I will finish this before picking up another project", she says.....onward to Blocking Day.

Until next time......

Happy Knitting!

 

 

100th pattern design

I can't lie....I'm kind of proud to say that I have hit a milestone....100 published pattern designs. Its been extremely fun to set out on this creative journey.  Learned a lot along the way on this adventure. But most importantly, I am grateful for my many devoted fans and cheerleaders for your kindness and words of encouragement.  You have gotten me here.  Thank you!

The 100th pattern design is the Double Check Reversible Blanket pattern. Rich in texture, comprised of mismatched blocks of ribbing and moss stitch squares, all complimented with a seed stitch border. The texture is created using just knit and purl stitches, so even if you are newer to knitting, this blanket is easy to knit...it just looks like its complicated.

A hand-knit afghan or throw blanket is a great way to freshen up any decor.  Whether you call it Persimmon, Coral or Conch Shell, this color is a fantastic POP color.  It goes with most everything.  It looks great with neutrals like ivory, greys or rich browns, tones of blue, any shade of green, springy yellows and pinks.  A Coral hue delivers warmth and adds an unexpected sophistication to your space.

Whether you fancy the color Coral or not,  choose an unexpected POP color for your next blanket project....you'll be glad you did.

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Just love lots of textural interest, but when it comes to blankets, I really love when they are reversible......its a MUST.  No matter how they end up draped over the sofa, a chair or your lover, they always look great.

If you love texture, like I love texture you may want to check out the Nolan Gansey Sampler Reversible Blanket. Its great to look at and fun to knit. 

There is no getting bored with this project.  This blanket seemed to knit up quicker, honestly I think I just knit longer looking forward to the next pattern design.

Both Double Check and Nolan Blankets use an Aran weight yarn (4 sts = 1 inch) and a US#9 needle. Some of my go-to Aran weight yarns are Cascade Eco Wool/Eco Wool+, Cascade 220 Superwash Aran and Caron One Pound. The patterns for these Knitting Buzz Designs are available on Ravelry.

 

 

 

its officially blanket season

I love autumn and all that it brings..... the changing colors of the trees, cooler evenings, fresh crisp apples from the orchard, pumpkins and anything pumpkin flavored (I was just at Trader Joes and do you know that there is pumpkin flavored caramel popcorn....that's taking pumpkin to a whole new level...I digress), wooly socks, big scarves, sweaters, and lets not forget cozy blankets.  Inspired? I am. Honestly, it doesn't take much to inspire me to knit, but it does inspire me to knit some heavier weight yarns and some larger projects.

With a chill in the air, its the perfect time to go full throttle into starting those bigger projects like sweaters, blankets, and throws or just to get a jump on your holiday knitting. For me, its also the best time to start on a blanket project, whether for your self or for a loved ones.

To kick off blanket season, I want to share the sweetest baby blanket for the newest arrival.  Its the Sweet Pea Baby Blanket.

Its a modest chevron pattern with textured ridges, welts and eyelets. Its show in three colors, but can easily be done in one color or in many colors (a perfect way to utilize left over yarn from previous projects).

This blanket is a 32" x 32" perfect for the new bundle of joy, but can easily be knit wider and longer.  It took 1045 yards of sport-weight yarn; 665 yards of the main color, 190 yards each for color A &B.

It was knit with Big Bad Wool Weepaca which is yummy soft. Weepaca is 50% fine washable merino and 50% baby alpaca.  I truly think it makes the knitting go faster, just because you don't want to put it down.....just a theory.

Since the Sweet Pea Baby Blanket, has a feminine feel. Here is a great design for your little man.

Its my Building Blocks Reversible Baby Blanket design. It takes just under 900 yards of sport weight yarn and looks best in a solid color. Its also sized at a 32" x 32" but can easily be made both wider and longer if desired.

So get out those knitting needles and get your blanket on. More fun projects coming soon......

Until then.... Happy Knitting!

 

 

 

 

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upsy-daisy

a neighborhood fiber company design

Neighborhood Fiber Company is a new favorite of mine. Karida Collins, owner and dye-master extraordinaire has a gift of producing gorgeous color combinations creating playful tonal colorways (pictured below).  To further add to the charm, Karida has named the colorways after neighborhoods in the DC metro area.

Yarns are available from lace to bulky weights and up to 50 colorways, my personal favorites are the Maisonette and Loft laceweights. Big surprise, right?

Both the Maisonette and Loft are available at Stitches Events/Knitting Universe.

Maisonette Lace is a blend of tussah silk and superfine merino, 50% merino wool/50% tussah silk. It has 1250 yards (4 ounces) of 2 ply laceweight that is buttery smooth. Pictured above is a small collection of Maisonette colorways.

Loft combines the softest kid mohair that covers a silk core, 60% kid mohair/40% silk. Its wispy and light and is available in 330 yard hanks. Pictured above is a collection of the Loft colorways.

I have purchased several colorways of both of these yarns, they are simply hard to resist.

Now to the good stuff.....

Recently published by Knitting Buzz Designs is my Laurel Wreath Lace Wrap Pattern in Maisonette colorway Cooper Circle.  Laurel Wreath is an elegant mesh lace pattern with columns of delicate laurel leaves running throughout, reminiscent of a laurel wreath.

The pattern is available in 4 sizes to accommodate yardage requirements.  The scarf size uses 420 yards, the wide scarf uses 700 yards, the wrap uses 975 yards and the extra wide wrap uses 1250 yards.

If you are an adventurous beginner, you can do this....I would recommend a yarn that is not to slippery and square needles to give you a little more confidence and control.

Detailed blocking instructions and photo-tutorial are included in the pattern for a perfect finish.

I get tons of compliments when I wear this piece and would like to find some time to knit another. I hope you like it as much as I do.

Until next time.....

Happy Knitting!

 

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knitting a swatch

what's off the needles....beaded inclination

all I want for Christmas is my.....

SOCKS!!!!

Every Christmas I knit socks for gifts. Some years I will knit lots of socks and other years, I will knit at least one pair. And one pair was all I mustered this year. But its a good one!

I really liked knitting this pair, they actually seemed to knit up quickly. Quick is good.... my only beef with knitting socks is the time it takes..... but no beef here.

The pattern is a series of triangles designed end to end.  The pattern name is Mosaic Tile Sock and is available on Ravelry.  The pattern is easy to memorize and definitely helps the speed of completing the project. The bright color, Neon Peach, may actually be brighter in person.  At times I felt like my retinas may have been seared, like staring at the sun...... they are that bright.

The yarn is Madelinetosh Tosh Sock, color is Neon Peach and 385 yard of Superwash Merino wool yarn. Its a beautiful hand-dyed yarn of bright pink and bright orange.  My inner 11 year old self would squeal in delight over this hue.

As for a quick holiday update..... I gifted a 2 scarves, a pair of socks and a crocheted blanket.  Much less than previous years but all were received with joy and gratitude.....that's what its all about.....

Hope you and yours enjoyed a warm & wonderful holiday with family & friends.

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

texture and color

Happy New Year!!!   Starting 2015 off right!  

A new pattern that combines both texture and color. That's right! A textured lace combined with five gradated colors from light to dark, makes for one must-have accessory.

The texture reminds me of the coral that washes up on the beaches in the Bahamas.  Or maybe I'm just wishing I was on a beach on this chilly day.

 

 

Dimples Lace Scarf pattern is available on Ravelry.com. It was knit using Frabjous Fibers, Wonderland Yarns, Cheshire Cat Mini Skein Pack.  The mini skeins come with 5 colors of gradated colors or coordinated colors. I chose the light to dark pack colorway called Too Much Pepper #21, Its a fingering weight yarn, 100% superwash merino, 640 yards.  the yarn is extremely soft to the touh and easy to knit with.

This is one of those scarves that I will wear alot.

I really wish I would have had 2 packs instead of one, because I know I would love it as a wrap. No surprise.... right?

The pattern includes instruction on changing colors and methods for blocking.

Want to wish you and yours a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year!

Enjoy and Happy Knitting!!!!

 

over-dying worked

The over-dying worked!  It can be done, changing the color, or in this case, colors of a completed knit piece can be over-dyed.

This is the first time that this has ever happened to me....... three (3) hanks, all purchased & shipped to the store together were three different color tones. Yes, the yarn had a tonal quality about it, but it still appeared to be the same color. These color differences made this beautiful lace piecework look ridiculous.

Even though the over-dying took away the tonal qualities, it no longer looks ridiculous, to me.

The patterns is LoZenge Lace Wrap and Scarf Pattern and is available on Ravelry.com. Its a fairly easy lace pattern, no tricky decreases. It looks more complicated than it really is.

 

All in all.....I liked working with The Fibre Company Yarn, Meadow.  It has good stitch definition, is soft to the touch and blocked well.  However the inconsistency of color from hank to hank has me. sadly,  a little leery to consider it for future projects. 

Happy Knitting!

 

toiled and foiled

Quietly, I had been working on my Lozenge Lace Wrap pattern knit with The Fibre Company Yarn, Meadow.  

Lozenge Wrap is a wide rectangular wrap in an intertwined diamond lace design. The term lozenge offen refers to a diamond and is a form of rhombus. Its used in architecture, heraldry, decoration on textiles, ceramics, silverware, and playing cards.

The picture below is not blocked and does not do the piece much justice, but its the only picture I have at this time. Read on to find out why.....

Meadow is a newer lace weight yarn that was introduced last June.  It a unique blend of fibers: 40% merino wool, 25% baby llama, 20% silk and 15% linen.   Meadow has some inherent color difference which I thought was due to the variation of fibers used and how the each fiber takes the dyes.  I'm not a dye expert, but it seemed reasonable to me.

Why no mention until now?

Well, I had wanted to have it all complete prior to posting about it or its progress.  New pattern, new yarn...... It was really kind of exciting..... tiptoeing around the edges of being undercover or even secret like.

When all I had to do was to finalize the pattern writing, block it and photograph it .....that is when it happened.....FOILED!!!!!

The three hanks of Meadow that I purchased, all from the same store, all at the same time looked the same in the hank, BUT resulted in three subtle yet distinct color differences once knit, resulting in lines of demaraction. This was not obvious to me as it should have been, until blocking day. I was heart-broken. I guess I was so intent on knitting and focused on completion, that I hadn't noticed the subtle color variations from skein to skein, especially when I had a pile of lace sitting in my lap.

The Fibre Company, was contacted to see if the piece could be overdyed with their dyes to maintain the integrity of the yarn and color.  But sadly they refused.

What are my choices?

I can have a wrap that looks like it was knit with three different colors or I perhaps I can over-dye it for an entirely different look all together.  I can start light and get darker if need-be.  Since I have limited dying experience, its time to ask around.  

Now my wrap is with a student at SAIC,  who specializes in dying.  She is going  to over-dye it. She is going to shoot for a slightly bluer version of the original color, because of how the silk content might perform.  

This is foreign to me...... but I am not worried in the least,  it can't possibly look worse than it does right now. If that color doesn't work out, we will just go darker.

Stay tuned.....

Will share the AFTER pictures and more about the pattern later.

Until then......Happy Knitting!

 

a study in color

Obsidian Chevron Scarf is finished and published and oh so cozy.  I can't lie, I have a thing for chevrons, both in random configurations of width and color or regimental designs. I like the knit or crocheted, I like them lace-y or as fabric, I like them solid or striped, I like them here or there, I like them anywhere....sorry, got carried away.  Chevrons are always striking and always in fashion.  The Obsidian pattern is available on Ravelry.com.

Obsidian is knit with three colors of The Fibre Company, Road to China Light yarn. Road to China Light is a luxurious blend of Baby Alpaca, Cashmere, Camel and Silk.  You must touch it!

This project became a study of color and it could have gone in so many directions.  The colors I chose consisted of one accent color (smokey quartz/brown) and two harmonious colors (sapphire & apatitie/ blue & teal).

Harmonious colors schemes use colors that are next to each other on the color wheel. They usually match well and create a serene and comforting feeling.

 

Choosing complimentary colors with an accent color would look fantastic as well. Complimentary colors are opposite each other on the color wheel (like blue & orange, purple & yellow, pink & green).

........OR .......

Just two colors (a main color and an accent color) is perfect for a very sophisticated look or can even be tonal color choice (like two shades of grey, etc). Definitely a handsome choice.

However, for those of you who like living on the edge, each accent row or color row could be a different color.  A great option for using up odds and ends, using yarns with long stripes like Noro Yarn or stash busting,   

The possiblities are endless..... Don't be afraid of choosing a color......Have fun..... its going to look fantastic whatever you choose.

Just a quick side note, the pattern gives tips on how to change colors and knit in the ends as you go....eliminating weaving in a gajillion end.

 

Happy Knitting!

knitting in ends as you go

Meg, taught me this technique. Its brilliant and so much easier in the long run to weaving in ends with a darning needle or crochet hook. She truly is gifted.  Thank you Meg!

This technique can be used for doing frequent color changes and when tails are about 2 inches or so long.

The instructions are written for English style knitting (my preferred style), however can easily be adapted for Continental style knitting.

When adding a new color, leave at least a 2 inch tail and complete the first stitch.

Next insert needle into the next stitch, take the tail (of the new color) and drape it over the the right hand needle toward you, the tail will be crossing over the working yarn (shown above), then complete the stitch.

Insert the needle again into the next stitch, take the tail of the new color and drape the tail over the working yarn away from you, the tail will be crossing over the working yarn again (shown above).

Continue to move the tail back and forth over the working yarn prior to completing the stitch for 10 to 15 stitches or until the tail is too short to manipulate.  Do not cut tails until piece has been completed and blocked (either wet block or mist block). This will set the stitches, so they do not wiggle out.

Once blocked, tails can be snipped.

There are some YouTube videos showing a modified version of this technique that will also work well.......HOWEVER.....I found the results to be a bit bulkier fabric and sometimes noticible from the right-side

Happy Color Knitting!

bracelet inspiration

Bright green is a color that has been in the couture fashion scene for years. This color green has lots of names, some call it emerald or kelly or peapod; I call it, bright green.

Over the past year, it has finally emerged into the mainstream fashion arena.  

For me, I am smitten with the color, its so bright, so lively, so happy.  But I can't say that I was daring enough to wear it. Until now.....

This summer, Pandora came out with a new Murano Glass Charm in Green.  In the bright green I love.  It spoke to me......

And as everyone knows a bracelet is the perfect reason to knit a new lace scarf or wrap. Especially if..... its happy green.

When I found the perfect color of green yarn, I was surprised how many individuals don't see this green the same way I do.  The reactions/comments have been......"its so bright"..... "perfect for Christmas/St. Paddy's Day"....... "what are you going to make with that".  But I didn't care, I still liked it and can't wait to wear it.

The yarn that I found was Vice Yarn Sinful Singles in the color, The O.Z. (great name, right?), its a single ply fingering weight, 100% Superwash Merino, 400 yards, I bought 2 hanks.  It matches my bracelet beautifully.

More soon.....

Happy Knitting!

 

is it need or want?

With two baby blankets complete and published, I am focusing my efforts on knitting a lacy wrap to coordinate with the crystal earriings I got on vacation.  

They are a periwinkle color and I own absolutely own nothing that color.  

Hence.....I NEED a lacy wrap.

The yarn I chose was a periwinkle colored laceweight from Alisha Goes Around, Marmalade Lace Yarn, 100% Fine Superwash Wool, in the  color Actium.  I'm not really sure what Actium has to do with this color, but to me its still periwinkle.

I have decided to make this wrap extra wide and extra long, approximately 30" x 80" blocked.  I have 2 hanks or 1900 yards, so I should have plenty of yarn to knit with.  

Thats right, 1900 yards, thats is over a mile of yarn (a mile = 1760 yards). Sounds like I will be at this for awhile.  Honestly, I'm certain I can get the wrap and an additional lacy scarf out of the yardage.

Hey... two possible options for the sparkly earrings. What will I WANT next? Periwinkle shoes?

Enough.....

I have started the initial work on the pattern and have come up with a design I have been working on for some time, but just couldn't seem to get it right, until NOW.

 

This first picture is the pattern without any blocking and like any unblocked lace it has a very rumpled look.

So I did what I call a "cheaters block".  While still on the needles, got my piece wet and stretched it out on the blocking board.  This allows me to check it in a slightly larger format than my initial swatching.  

Of course, this is still a preliminary look.  But it definitely on its way.  

I really wish I could better predict when it will be finished, but I tend to be a victim of my own wandering or distractions. Stay focused, stay focused, stay focused.........

Happy Knitting!

inspired by need

Usually my inspirations come from my surroundings; nature, architecture, fabrics, etc. However, my latest projects have come from pure need.

I need a periwinkle-colored knitted lace wrap to go with the Swarovski Crystal earrings I got on my cruise.

I need (or rather volunteered) to knit a baby blanket for a friend.

That..... is how it starts.

 I found the perfect color of yarn from Alisha Goes Around. Its her Marmalde Lace yarn in the color Actium or periwinkle, for my purposes.

 A good match, don't you think?

All wound up and ready to go.  Let the lace knitting begin.....

Now for the baby blanket.

Since I don't know if the baby is a boy or a girl, I decided to design a unisex pattern that ideally is reverible.  I know I want to use a sport/dk weight yarn that is both washable and baby soft.  

Cascade 220 Superwash Sport is a perfect choice.  My friend chose the color Blaze or a very very bright orange.  For my purposes, I thought a natural color might photograph better.

 

Its clear to me now, how I get in trouble.

I am up to knitting 2 baby blankets.  One to photograph to for the pattern design and one for baby.  But I am completely okay with this, because its always good to have a spare baby blanket on hand, right?

More soon on my "inspired" project progress.....

Happy Knitting!

knitalongs

Knitalongs are when a group of knitters get together to make the same project at the same time and share the experience together.  As much fun as knitalongs have sounded, I have always avoided them in the past.  I had viewed them as another distraction to what I was currently working on.  So I have always declined or indefinitly postponed....... UNTIL NOW.

It started with some of my friends wanting to crochet a granny square afghan.  They were picking out lots of colors of wool yarn for their afghan.  I can't lie, I got caught up in the moment myself and stated selecting colors that appealed to me. Then before you know it.....it was assumed I was in.  YIKES!

I did protest, really I did, and proclaimed I couldn't possibly start a blanket for a whole host of reasons:  my lace wraps (one in red and now one in blue), I am still a hank or so away from completing my retro ripple afghan from last year (or so), how could I possibly start another blanket..... yada yada yada.

 

I tried to resist..... but the colors really were speaking to me and then it happened..... I decided to get involved in my first community knitalong or rather crochetalong.  But I do know myself enugh to know that I would NEVER have the patience or the stamina to put together a gajillion squares. So I found a Vintage Ripple pattern by Churchmouse Yarn and Teas using the same number of colors and then I was hooked...... pun totally intended....

The 7 colors I chose were in Cascade 220 worsted weight wool: chocolate, olive oil, cabernet, como blue, jade, mossy rock and tummeric. I love this yarn for heirloom quality blankets.

I have been fairly dilligent about working on it and its now over 60% complete.  However, its just big enough to be a bit on the warm side to continue working on. 

SOLUTIONS:  wait till the weather changes (may be dangerous for me to pick it back up, since my retro afghan is still not finished), crank up the AC, or sit at a table to work on it by letting the blanket sit on the table instead of my lap.

Stay tuned....news at 11.....

Happy knitting and crocheting!

something red

What's on the needles????

Yes, I'm knitting another lace wrap.....I love them.... I love to knit them.... I love to wear them.....but this time....... it's RED. 

Red is not a "go to" color for me.... but this particular color of red caught my eye. Its more of an orangy-red rather than a true red or blue-red.  I think it will work for me.

Here is a sneak peak at the project so far.

 

I don't have a name for this new pattern yet, so for now it will be called the red lace wrap (catchy, right?). I will be posting updates.

I already have a few test knitters for this one (and looking for more)..... which means that I had to get on the stick and actually get the pattern into a draft version of a pdf.  Thank you test knitters...this is so good for me.

I wrote it in three sizes: a wrap or wide scarf size, a scarf and a wide/oversized wrap.   I am knitting the wrap size.  The yarn is a merino/silk laceweight from Fiber Optics. 

If you have any pattern name ideas, please share OR if you are interested in test knitting this pattern, feel free to contact me here or on Ravelry. 

Enjoy the Olympics. Go RED, White and Blue. 

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!!!!

 

iDye changing garment color update

Initially, I used iDye to re-dye a couple faded black cotton sweaters......and it worked beautifully. 

THEN.... I got the idea to change the color of some knitwear that I seem to never wear. I like the pieces but don't wear them because of the color ......or have nothing really to go with them. 

So my great idea came with some mixed results.  The cotton knits took a couple of goes at it to get the saturated color that I wanted.......and now have a few pieces that have gone from dust collectors to vital wardrobe pieces.   Love this!

The mixed result came from a silk/linen blend cardi that was a pale pale blue.  Lovely in its own right, but I never wore it.  If it were black I knew I would wear it all the time....right?

So in the iDye instructions, you add salt if the garment is cotten or linen and you add white vinegar if it is silk.   What to do?  My cardi is silk and linen.  So my logic said to add both..... do I hear shreeks and screams?

Yes, that is what I did, added both and my pretty pale blue cardi that I never wore is now a funky plum color.  Not horrible, but its plum and not black. I'm not exactly sure what I did wrong and  why my black dye produced a plum color.  I may give it another try later.....but for now I am a little "gun-shy".  Perhaps...some research is involved......

must share

Have you ever had perfectly good knitwear that has faded and you were to embarrassed to wear them? 

Well that is what happened to me.  I have two cardi's that I wear often and even though they are structurally fine, they look shabby because they have faded.

I got the notion that maybe I could dye them, instead of buying new replacements.  My dying experience (which was not a good one) was limited to RIT dye.  I didn't even know if RIT dye was still around.  So I did some inquiring, found it was available BUT Taylor told me about her experiences with the product iDye.

iDye couldn't be easier. Drop the packet in the washing machine, add salt or vinegar (depending on the fabric) and with NO MESS. I now have two cardi's that look brand new.  How great is that?  I love this product.

I am going to experiment with changing the color of a couple of garments OR rectify some impulse shopping.

I have a couple of sweaters that I never wear, only because of the color.....I really don't own or haven't found something to go with them......so why not change the color.  THIS is so liberating!!!!   I will report back on how the color change project worked.....stay tuned....news at 11......

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........

 

 

 

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....

 

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!

 

 

 

 

fall 2011 color forecast

 
During TNNA, VOGUEknitting's Trisha Malcolm, Editor in Chief gave a splendid session on the color trends and forecast for Fall 2011 from Pantones Fashion Color Report. Here are some highlights and insight into these color trends.

Fall 2011 fashion color trends take the approach to pair brighter colors with more neutral hues.  The highlighted colors are a link to the pantone color with some fashion designers visioin of the color and their observations.

Honeysuckle (dubbed color of the year) continuing from Spring, is a playful reddish pink. Works great with Coffee Liqueur and Nougat. Pair it with Bamboo for some intensity.  Honeysuckle provides a complimenatry healthy glow and looks good on everyone.  It will be used often for a festive sweater, shrug or jacket and perfect in a lace shawl.

Bamboo is a subtle yellow with a green undertone. It will be paired with Phlox, Deep Teal and Honeysuckle.

Emberglow is the perfect autumn tone that borders on a coral influence. Combine it with Coffee Liqueur for a classic look or with Honeysuckle for a retro feel. A dramatic accessory would be a lacey knit scarf in Emberglow, Deep Teal and Phlox.

Phlox is a deep almost magical purple tone. Its is stunning worn on its own and dramatic when its worn with neutrals like Cedar, Coffe Liqueur and Deep Teal.  Knitting fair-isles or any color work Phlox works well as an accent color combined with Cedar as the main color, Bamboo and Honeysuckle as additional accent colors.

Cedar is a versatile mid-tone nuetral green.  Its naturally paired with Deep Teal. For a sophisticated approach its complimented beautifully with Phlox or Orchid Hush.

Deep Teal is an intense blue-toned green, residing somewhere between Navy and a Deep Forest.  Used with Cedar, its neighbor on the color wheel is almost a standard. Looks striking with Honeysuckle.

Coffee Liqueur the richness of this color is a savory wardrobe staple to basic black.  It works well with all the bright hues of the season. It adds a sense of elegance to the Fall pallette.

Nougat is a warm taupe camel shade and is complimented with Phlox, Emberglow and Honeysuckle.

Orchid Hush is a unique shade of soft gray with orchid undertones. Blends with any color well. 

Quarry a beautiful and reliable shade of medium gray. A great colorway to show off cables in sweaters, scarves and afghan/throws.

Get out your knitting needles..... we've got lots of gorgeous sweaters and accessories to knit....

Happy Knitting!

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!

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.

the promise of spring

I love all the signs that Spring is on its way and coming soon.  I love pansies, its such a happy flower, they always make me smile.

 

 

 

 

The temperatures in Chicago have been cooler this year. Which is why we have the "promise" of Spring.  Check out the next photos carefully.

 

 

More pansies, tulips and beautiful pink budding bushes OR

 
 

just painted sticks.  I love the creativity and the illusion. I love Chicago! All the beautiful flowerbeds and landscapes... Chicago never disapoints, even when it may be premature.

 

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?

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.

 

 

 

spring 2011 color forecast

Compliments of VOGUEknitting and Tahki Stacy Charles is the Spring 2011 Color Forecast for Knitwear.  Note:  Pantone numbers have been included to get the exact color since online colors can be deceiving.

 
The "it" color of 2011 is forecasted to be Honeysuckle, Pantone 18-2120, a vibrant, energetic hue of reddish pink. Its a color that instills confidence and courage; perfect to ward off the blues. Honeysuckle looks great when combined with any of the spring 2011 forcasted colors. This vibrant reddish pink looks stunning with greens, blues, the blue-greens, the citrus colors, lavendar, russet brown, and silver grey.  

The browns and beiges of the season will be more peachy and added sparkle will present either within the garments or accessories. Check out Russet, Pantone 18-1235 and Silver Peony, Pantone 12-1206.

The Coral Rose and Beeswax color combination will be everywhere, you can't help but feel the enery from this color combination. Check out Coral Rose, Pantone 16-0941 and Beeswax, Pantone 14-0941.

The blues are inbetween last years turquoise and the greens are more grassy. They play beautifully together and work well with last years turquoise too. Check out Peapod, Pantone 14-6324, Blue Curacao, Pantone 15-4825 and Regatta, Pantone 18-4039.

What is left off of this color forecast is the importance of WHITE. Head-to-toe white will be everywhere, its fresh, its clean its confident. White with any of the forecasted colors keeps the palette crisp.

happy 2011

It seems I am late at wishing Happy New Year, which is right in line with some of my gift knitting this season. Knowingly, I took on more than I should have and finished most on time with only a couple of stragglers that ended up getting finished last week. 

Sooo.......What have I learned? Perhaps I might start sooner, or perhaps I will work on gifts throughout the year or perhaps I should commit to less...... ding, ding, ding...winner, winner, chicken dinner!!!!  Only time will tell how this one plays out.

I am happy to start the new year with a post about knitting, crocheting and yarn.
Surprised?   I seem to lose focus during the last month of the year when it comes to blog posting and heavy concentration on gift knitting, shopping, friends and family.

I funny sock pattern came out nearing the deadline of my gift sock knitting. I had three pair of socks to go and 8 days till Christmas.  I started a pair of cabled socks with faggoting for Katie....then had a "what was I thinking?" moment. Cables? Cables take more time (at least for me) and the one thing I didn't have was time.

 

Did I ripe them out and start over? Oh no...that would be counter productive. In stead I started knitting them in stockinette, thinking the 3 cable repeats was I nice top treatment.  After a few rows, I realized I had to do something more than that.... I was using the beautiful Dream in Color  Smooshy sock yarn in color Nightwatch.....so I added back the faggotting.  

I like how they turned out and I really loved working with Smooshy sock yarn.  I will write the pattern up soon for anyone who might like it too.

New Year and time to get back to crocheting my Retro Ripple Afghan.  I have three repeats to go and the weather is cold enough to work on it with the benefits of it keeping me snuggly warm. Its so cozy!  I can't wait till its finished. 

This throw was inspired by the one my sweet dear Grandma made me when I was young girl. You know the one, its in colors only a silly girl would choose when her choice is Red Heart Super Saver.....not that there is anything wrong with that = ).

 
 

Plaid - WSJ. Magazine - WSJ

Plaid

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

• Article
• Slideshow
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WSJ. Magazine HOME PAGE »

By Jenny Studenroth

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

via magazine.wsj.com

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

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????

 

feeling blue

Believe me I have noticed.  It seems like most everything I am knitting is a beautiful teal turquoise sort of blue....not that there is anything wrong with that.  Clearly I love blue, but not just any blue, its the greek isles, caribbean watery blues that call my name these days. 

Is it a gravitational pull?  Magnets?  Is it seasonal?  Do I want to go on vacation? (the answer to that question is always, YES!)  Who knows what draws us to one color verses another?  Oooo....I wonder if anyone has ever done a study on that.... I'd love to know more.

To make matters more blue, I have a couple more projects in the wings that are that same flavor of blue. Please endure, as I look onto my stash of pretties there is a lot of purpley chocolate browns in my future.  I love richness of that color too.