the knitting buzz

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! 

holiday update

I can't believe it, my holiday knitted gifts are nearly complete. Admittedly, less knitted gifts than previous years, but nearly complete.

A scarf, a hat, a monster, some face cloths and socks.  Toddler sized house socks for cold hardwood floors, pictured below.

 

As I write this..... it sounds so lame, even to me.  But I promised myself I would keep it to a minimum and indeed, minimal it is. 

On the flip side....

I have 5 lace projects on the needles, 2 new and 3 repeats.  As for the repeats, this is something I usually never do....but liberally started new projects with yarn that had been  previously wound into balls intended for other designs that did not work out. this yarn now seemed to be well suited for some designs I know... a good feeling to use up some stash.   

The repeats are:

• Portofino now in Wollmeise Lace Garn, 
• Perpetua now in Mountain Colors Winter Lace and
• Pebbly now in Habu Stainless Steel & Silk......funny the 3 P's....PERFECT! 

With the holiday knits nearly done, I can work on getting the many lace projects moving. 

As for the new lace projects, one is my Lazy River project (working name) in Miss Babb's Yasmin Lace (Yasmin is my new favorite lace yarn). Lazy River is about 60% complete, I can't wait to finish it and get it blocked. Its been a fun project.  I love the wavy edge.

One of my test knitters has tried Lazy River in a fingering weight and another in an aran weight (shown repectively).  And both look super great. 



This is so exciting!  I love that the patten looks so good regardless of being lacy or bulky.  I may actually make this pattern as a scarf with some worsted weight merino/alpaca yarn that I have. 

Will share more later about the other new design, its in a beautiful mohair that I couldn't resist casting on.  who could blame me? 

Happy Holiday Gift Knitting!

its that time of year

Its time to stop procrastinating........ and start Holiday and Cold Weather Knitting. 

My friends and family won't like to hear this..... BUT I truly hope to shorten my gift list this year (I think I say this every year......wonder where I go astray???)

Don't get me wrong, I really do love knitting for my friends and family.  Especially those who appreciate and look forward to the hand knit gifts. 

It just seems that the closer I get to the holidays, the more I think I have super powers and can knock out one more _______ (fill in the blank), which then has the strange effect of makinging me kind-a grinchy..... not pretty.  My goal is to keep a tight list and stick to the list.

Sooooo........ Back in May, I really thought I was going to get a jump on the holiday/cold weather knitting and actually make a hat for myself and start the first pair of gift socks. 

Makes me laugh just typing it.

Well I did make the hat or rather tam and painfully learned that I need to not second guess  Ann Budd's "the knitter's handy Book of Patterns". 

Sorry Ann..... Since I don't make many hats for myself, I was convinced that I have an enormous head. I learned that my head is not as big as I thought it was. Hence the hat is too big......fits like I am wearing an umbrella on my head. 

Yes, that is the hand knit "umbrella".

But strangely, I was okay with that for some reason, perhaps because it was May and there was no chance of wearing it anytime soon.  So I was okay with my ginormous hat, until now......that's right.....I just frogged it.  And immediately cast on the same hat, this time fully trusting Ann Budd.

As for the socks, since May, I have only finished the first sock, but have cast on its mate and completed the ribbing for the second sock. I have at least 4 -  6 pairs of socks to knit, in additions to the hats, scarves & mittens. Edit, edit, edit.....I must heed my own advice. 

With just 52 days till Christmas.....better get busy knitting! 

Wishing you effortless holiday knitting and hope you are farther along than I am.

sweet georgia tough love sock yarn

Sweet Georgia Yarns are a nice find. 

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

Sweet Geogia's photo is much better.

 

 

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

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

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

Fun right?

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

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

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

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

Moral of this story....

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

 

 

detour sock pattern

There is nothing like a pair of hand knit socks. 

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

 

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

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

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

Happy Knitting!

let's catch up

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

 

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

Happy Knitting!

 

new year project updates

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

That' it for now.....

Have a Happy and Prosperous New Year!

new year

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Knitting every chance I get......

Happy Knitting!!!!

test knitters

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

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

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

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

inspired to start

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

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

Here is a quick snap shot.....

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

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

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

Happy Knitting!

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

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

 

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

 
it all started with my Retro Blanket,

 

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

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

 
Promanade Lace Wrap/Scarf. In mohair.

 

Gilded Sock pattern

 

Recently finished colorwork scarf (more later on this one)

 

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

That's alot of up and down patterns.    

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

 

 

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

Perhaps there is no explanation.

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

 

Happy Knitting and Crocheting!

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

 

gilded

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

fan socks

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

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

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

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

  

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
 

Happy Knitting!



are you ready for some football?

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

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

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

 

I believe there are THREE Styles of Football Knitting.  

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

Happy Knitting and enjoy the game.

 

 
 How's that for random?  =-) 

 

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.

heading to TNNA

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

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

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

So back to selecting the knitting projects to pack.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More later.....

 

too many projects?

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

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

Project Progress Update

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

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

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

Creatively Dyed Socks - 75% complete (time sensitive)

New Sock Design - 25% complete

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

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

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

Whew!!!

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

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

Happy Knitting!  =)

made my day

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

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

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

Kathy wrote:

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

 

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

Haqppy Knitting! 

 

what's on the needles

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

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

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

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

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

up in the air

I am a little behind in posting this.....perhaps its was the 61 pictures I took form the plane. I will spare you and share only some highlights.

Heading out and of course, I am equipped with my traveling sock for the 4 hour journey to Long Beach. I settled on the sock, yes another sock, because I resisted the idea of losing my precious Signatures, just so I could work on my lace scarf. This sock is being knit with Socks that Rock  by Blue Moon Fiber in my Dash sock pattern,

 

First of all, I am from the Midwest but know nothing about farming, I enjoyed looking out over the farmland, BUT then found myself mystified by large sections of land that appeared like crop circles but seemingly larger, throughout many different areas.

The picture is a little hard to see. But I found them very interesting. Can anyone tell me what these are.....I'm intrigued!

 

Here are some frosted version of circles, half circles and even some pacman shaped ones. What are these????

 

 
I could see my mystifying circles inspiring some design work down the road. They are beautiful.

I get the opportunity to see many mountains, so I couldn't help myself. There was alot of snow on some and none on others.

 

Canyons and steep ravines

 

This next shot  looks to me like it could have been taken on Mars....

Some were so majestic

 

 

And then after the mountain show, we land and alas, the Queen Mary. We are staying on this renovated ship while in Long Beach. So fun!

 

 


I will be posting on some new products, some features front the Fashion Show and  the fashion color forecast for Spring 2011.

 

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.

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 = ).

 
 

tick.... tick tick tick..... tick

My holiday knitting  seems to be "running in place", there really must be some catchy knitting metaphor that better describes my lack of progress.....well.... nothing comes to mind.  All the same, I feel like I am looking for anything to knit, except those items that have a ticking deadline. 

My sweet sister told me that I didn't need to get some hand knit socks to here by Christmas......and you never saw anything so quickly leave my knitting bag.  Sorry Sis...... I promise to have them finished when you visit.

Berroco said it best in their Knitbits e-Newsletter #370

 "Knitting for the holidays is not for the faint of heart. Leisurely knitting by a fireplace? More like frantic all-nighters, fueled by marshmallow laced hot cocoa." 

I really thought my gift list was limited enough to a select few, but yet I'm getting to the frantic stage.  I really think its because December is near and the clock starts ticking louder and louder and louder.

I really hope this isn't happening to you, but I have a feeling that most knitters are alike and have visions of grandeur on what is possible to accomplish. Promising themselves that it will be a piece of cake and it could never be as bad as last year. If this is the case, I wish you much focus and lots of yummy hot cocoa.

 My goal is to finish another project or two before the end of the month.....yes, I know that is next Tuesday. Yikes! Got to go....must knit.

Happy Knitting!

unstripe to unspiral

Did you know?

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

The photos are showing both sides of the work.

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

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

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

 

how to unstripe

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

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

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

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

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

To begin.

Cast on 64 (72) stitches.

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

Pattern

Row 1& 2        Knit

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

Row 11 & 12    Knit

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

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

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

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

lots of socks

Even though the holidays bring joy and reminds us of the importance of family and friends, it also is has a way of becoming stressful with all the commitments of parties, decorating, and shopping. I can't believe I am going to say this.... but even knitting can become stressful to make deadlines.

 
 
 
Soooooo........ Holiday gift knitting has consumed all of my knitting time. The most requested item this year is socks. Actually it seems to be the most requested item every year. I like knitting socks, but better yet I like wearing hand knit socks. So I understand the request for the warm and cozy, knit with love to keep their toes snuggly warm request.

BUT, did you know.....Fun Fact....... that the average pair of socks has around 26,000 stitches. That's alot of stitches and they take more time than one might think.

This year I have taken a few shortcuts by using more of the German & Italian engineered yarn that is dyed to look like stripes or fair-isle patterns.  As much as I do love the beautiful hand dyed yarns, I have to give credit to the brilliant computer dying techniques the Germans & Italian have mastered. Unfortunately there is no shortcut for getting around the 26,000 hand knit stitches.

I have a few more pairs to go before the December 25th deadline.  In hopes of eeking out a pair or two for myself this year. A girl can dream.....right?

October is flying by

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

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

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

 

 
Beautiful and inspiring!

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

Completed:  1 pairs of knitted socks

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

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

Gifts that already fell off the list:  1 hat

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

some rambling

Some rambling and a quick update.

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

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

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

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

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.

distraction multiplied

What's the saying...."When it rains, it pours". Well that's what is going on here. My Great Blanket Race focus has been officially broken. Distraction has completely taken over.  Blame it on the rain or some chilly temps that we have had.....

The chilly temps have inspired some toasty socks for Xander. They shouldn't take long to finish and then I will rush back to the Great Blanket Race orrrrrrr.....my plum scarf.

The yarn I'm using is Filatura de Crosa Zarina, a very nice washable fine merino wool from Italy. Its lovely and will be super nice and toasty on Xander's tootsies.

music box socks

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

 

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

 

 

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

May you hear music all day long.

 

much ado about nothing

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

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

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

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

 

music to my ears

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

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

Stop laughing.  

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

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

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

Where am I going with this.....

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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....."

  

 

 

 .

attitude

While I was walking home, I spied a bumper sticker that proclaimed, "Attitude Is The Only Disability." While I am sure it was a slogan for disabled people's rights, I got to thinking how true this was for almost everything......even knitting.

Since I have the opportunity of meeting and working with those who knit or crochet everyday, I see this come this statement reveal itself all the time, I just never really thought about it in that way. 

Knitting is essentially the manipulating of 2 stitches, right?  For some the manipulating is just two stitches, while for others the manipulating is terrifying. Let me explain

I had the privilege of meeting an enthusiastic new knitter who came in for a little  help on a project. Even though she had just learned the basics, she was eager to dive into more complicated projects. She took lots of classes and approached each project as a new adventure.  Within 6 months, she had made several sweaters, socks and some very complicated lace shawls and wraps. It was fun and inspiring to watch her grow.

Then I have also had the opportunity to meet those who are fearful or less confident to do anything other than scarves or rectangles.  I am convinced that these individuals believe that they are not able to do more. Depending on the individual and there openness, I love to try to encourage them to either try knitting other textures or techniques into their scarves OR moving them into a new silhouette like a hat, mittens or socks.

I will always remember that even though it gives me satisfaction to see knitters skills grow, I will also remember that not everyone is ready OR has the Attitude to take on more.

 

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

the traveling sock

Whether you are going on vacation or taking advantage of all your town offers during a stay-cation, what to pack, I mean what knitting to pack is a big decision. It can't be too big, it must be able to fit in a handbag or tote. It can't be too small, that you finish it too quickly. The yarn choice is usually lightweight, not too woolly, most don't care to work on something  providing additional warmth, since it is summer. Unless of course its nice and small. Knitting socks is always my answer.

So, as I begin a new sock project and thinking about what I will be taking to the Taste of Chicago.  Of course water, perhaps an extra plastic fork and some napkins or paper towels, maybe even some of those moist towelettes and my traveling sock.  Because of the traveling sock, long lines or waits never get the better of me.

Knitting on the traveling sock can make wait-time magically speed by especially in the airport, on the plane, the train, the bus and the car (provided you are not driving). In the doctors office,  the 30 minute wait for a table, at Disney World, anywhere. Knitting socks areperfectly small and fits comfortably into a smallish handbag. And at the end of your journey or any wait, you are that much closer to a comfy pair of hand-knit socks.

Enjoy your travels..... whether they take you to far off places or down the block.

 

 

updates from TNNA and more

Back from TNNA in Columbus and worn out.....lots of walking, selecting yarns and accessories to sell in the shop, did I mentions lots of walking and lots of Jenis.....I certainly had my fill of Jenis ice cream ...... it really was spectacular.  I had several pints shipped home to share with the family. They are liking it too....how could they not.....seriously.

This year we stayed at the Hampton which was perfectly located across the street from the Convention Center and within a block from the North Market (good eats).  Its a nice hotel with a very friendly staff. I would recommend it

We were very busy and on the go go go the entire time.  I really thought I would get alot of knitting done, but sadly this was not the case.  The one thing I had to get finished were Katie's birthday socks. Mission failed. Luckily for me Katie was very understanding when there was only one sock in the package....she actually laughed and said she completely understood.

 

 

 

 

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.

Oops!...I Did It Again

Feeling very deadline rich these days and .....

Yes, I did!....added another knitting project (a project of love, of course) to my very full knitting plate.  And did I mention I am moving in less than a week and there is still a lot to pack....oofdah.

My daughter, Katie's birthday is June 13th and she must have some beautiful Malabrigo Socks....which is why I just had to start a new project.  Its just socks right?

So, I have selected the color Indecita (which reminds me of Monet's Water Lilies) and one of my favorite sock patterns Heather

 

I guess its time to get back to packing.....argh.....and all I really want to do is knit.....blush

 

 

 

 

 

Knitting Socks

I love to knit socks. I love to design socks. I love to wear socks. I LOVE hand knit socks.

There are many ways to knit socks. I use dpn's and a heel flap, always. I like that the heels are reinforced and will give my socks a longer life. Long live the knitted socks. I love picking up stitches for the gusset and admire the engineering involved in sock shaping and the turning of the heel. I love that after turning the heel that I know I am halfway done (with the first sock, of course)

I love that in a very short time after learning to knit socks that I was able to do it without a book or pattern.... that I was able to pick up my needles and some yarn and GO.

I love designing socks, purely to escape the boredom of the stockinette or ribbed sock. There is nothing worse than the beloved request for a plain pair of charcoal gray dress socks. For some reason, these requests seem to take FOREVER to finish.....the ultimate never ending project. That's why I like to kick it up a notch by adding textures, lace and even on a rare occasion, some color work. In my designs, I try to keep the repeats to a limited number of stitches and rows (most of the time, but not always, blush) to allow me the freedom of a written pattern and to keep it on the go.

I love fingering weight yarn. I love its versatility and for the most part its easy care.  Perfect for making socks. Perfect for scarves. Perfect for lace shawls, wraps and scarves. Perfect for making your favorite lightweight cardi. Perfect for children's garments. 

I admire the many techniques and approaches to knitting socks and innovative constructions, but I love my dpn's and heel flap and that's that.

 

 

 

Gift Knitting

Birthday Socks  report...... I got the last two finished with time to spare AND I decided to give all three... even though one had "holes" (yarnovers).  She loved them, loved them all.  And didn't seem to even remember that she had seen me working on them previously. 

Knitting Lesson.....sadly but, I will remember that not everyone hangs on and remembers every yarn within reach or knitted WIP sighting.

 

 

 

Deadline Socks..... YIKES!!!!

Why do we do this????? Promise or commit to knitting our beautiful socks for an event or an occassion that seems like plenty of time and yet it turns into some panicked late night knitting.

I planned in March on making three pairs of socks for my very best friend for her birthday in May. Yes, I know its May! Her birthday is this Wednesday and I two half knit socks to go.  I am fairly certain it shouldn't be a problem. 

 

  

HOWEVER, the first pair I made I used my Heather Sock pattern in a gorgeous yarn from Prism.

She got a glimpse of them and commented on how pretty the yarn is but she doesn't like

 socks with "holes" in them. YIKES!

    
So in fact I will complete three pairs of socks just like I promised myself BUT one is with "holes" or yarnovers. With that said, do I give her 3 pairs including the ones with "holes"  or do I only give her 2 pairs????

 

Knitting leads to design

Like many, my passion is knitting! 

I am addicted to knitting socks and knitting lace shawls & decorative scarves. I am admittedly a  process knitter that has resolved to be a project knitter.....yes, that's right..... I am focusing my efforts in on  finishing more projects....blush.

Dabbling in some knitwear design had inspired or rather sparked my own desire to  complete and share my work.....many thanks to Ravelry to providing this outlet and inspiration.  My designs can be found and are available on Ravelry (knittingbuzz).

I have several projects on the needles that I can't wait to share and better yet, hope to share some pics in my next post.