Excuse Me While I Knit

Excuse Me While I IGNORE My Knitting

2006-08-08T15:09:00.000-05:00

The title of this blog should probably be changed to the title of this post. That's really how I'm feeling right now. This is, yet again, a pictureless post because I'm trying to sqeeze this in during my free time at work.

Tonight, I plan on washing and blocking the swatch I made so I can get an accurate guage of the cable patterns. I've also been creeping along on Cirque during my lunch breaks. I don't know if I told you all, but Cirque is my experiment in knitting backwards. I normally knit left-handed so now I’m trying Stockinette stitch using both my left and right hands so I never have to flip my work or purl. It has been quite the experience. My tension is beginning to even out and I’m knitting quicker with my right hand. This just might be my technique of choice for straight Stockinette pieces.

The most useful site I found on teaching how to knit backwards is this one on Kim’s website.

That's it for now. I promise, some pics and excitement to come.

Holding My Breath

2006-08-02T17:21:00.000-05:00

Let me fill you in on the swatch from my last post. (I'm away from home and I can't post any pictures right now.) It is inspired by a heavily cabled, cropped cardigan I saw in a similar color. The inspiration cardi had cap-sleeves, and it really intrigued me! I thought it was weird to see such a heavily cabled garment in a cropped length with cap-sleeves. I liked it so much that I decided to make my own! The inspiration actually is a little shorter than my version will be, and it had long ties that wrapped around the waist as the closure. I think mine will have 4 or 5 button-type closures (maybe frog & loop closures). The collar will be similar to the shawl collar on the inspiration cardi. I plan to use short rows to accomplish this. [I've never done it before, but it is detailed in the Big Book of Knitting (I'll reference the author's name later.) and it looks very interesting.]

On to the good part............................I'm not sure if I'll have enough yarn, so I'll be holding my breath the whole way. Also, I've only seen the inspiration cardi once....................on a television show..........about 5 months ago! So, I'm going off of pure memory! (so much so that I consider this my own design, lol)

Distraction

2006-07-30T06:45:00.000-05:00

Something to keep you distracted while I find time to create an actual post.

This is a swatch of a design I'm mulling over in my head. More to come.

Who's The Lucky Winner?!

2006-07-22T13:49:00.000-05:00

Every chance I get, I've been petting this lovely yarn. It's just so soft and the colors are magnificent. I think my SP is someone who knows me and is just not telling! (Though I truly know no one in Ohio.) That's exactly how I feel! As I was searching for a more suitable pattern for my new shawl, I revisited the Knitpicks website. (I've been so out of the loop, I didn't even know about their new needles and yarn. Where have I been?!) I saw the Adamas Shawl by Miriam Felton and I knew I had seen her name somewhere before. So, what did I do? I googled her, of course! And I found her blog - Mim's Knitting Frenzy. It only took me a split seconde (okay, I'm exaggerating) to find this beauty - the Mountain Peaks Shawl! It's knit using Knitpicks Shadow, which is the same as Shimmer except Shimmer is it's variegated counterpart. I think I found a winner, people!

More details to come.

Did you miss me?

2006-07-18T06:29:00.000-05:00

It's been quite some time since my last post. That's due to a completely different work schedule and a crazy household schedule, but no more excuses. I promise.

I was surprised on Friday with a very special package from a very special Secret Pal.

Isn't it beautiful?!! Here, we have 3 skeins of KnitPicks Shimmer in the Stained Glass colorway. Again, probably not a color I would choose for myself, but the combination is so pretty. This picture is slightly darker than the actual colors. I also received some Clover blocking pins. In the past, I've just used regular sewing pins, but now I can officially begin a real lace project!* My pal also included the KnitPicks Candle Light Shawl pattern. I think this beautiful yarn with it's magnetic colors is yearning to be something else, though. I'll let you know what I come up with.

You can imagine that while juggling my sanity, I haven't had much time to actually knit. Here's the progress on my toe-up Jaywalkers.

This is still the first sock and I'm just about to turn the heel. I've also worked a bit on Cirque - just a few more inches into the stockinette portion. Pictures soon to be revealed.

My day began at 6 this morning, and I still have much more to do before I leave for work. Time to get moving!

*My first actual project was a lace shawl that came out beautifully. I wound up giving it to my stepdaughter because I couldn't see myself actually wearing it. I will say that it was a good effort for my first actual project (what was I thinking?). My stepdaughter, to this day, drapes it over her bed when she makes it up in the morning. I think she might be prouder of it than I am!

FO's and Updates

2006-06-12T18:21:00.000-05:00

I figured I might as well post about the finished objects I've mentioned here in previous posts. First up, the infamous Husband-Ankle socks! Complete in all their glory. I actually have quite a bit of yarn left over. Next up, Pivocoli! This was a very quick knit. It took about a week, and I only used 2 skeins of the Brown Sheep Cotton Fleece in Perry's Primrose.

And as I searched for a pattern worthy of the lovely yarn my Secret Pal gifted me, I thought, why not some Jaywalkers? I've seen a hundred different versions, and I figured, this yarn would knit up nicely in the chevron pattern. Here's my first attempt following the toe up pattern drafted by Natalia Knits. I cast on the suggested number of stitches, but it was coming out WAY too big! (The yarn was also pooling in a way I didn't care for.) So, I adjusted and cast-on 26 stitches for the sole and increased up to 30 stitches for the pattern side of the foot. I told you I have very narrow feet!

I LOVE IT!!!!!

2006-06-04T16:38:00.000-05:00

Guess what was waiting for me in the mailbox on Saturday when I arrived back home from the grocery store....................................It was this! I absolutely love it. It's Brown Sheep Wildfoote sock yarn in the Rock N Roll colorway from my Secret Pal. Isn't it gorgeous? The pictures don't do it justice. The colors are so bright and vibrant. I can't wait to start something (socks, of course) with it. This should give me the impetus I need to actually finish my husband's ankle socks. The first one only took 3 days, but the second one is going on several weeks!!

This makes me feel like a bit of a slacker in the Secret Pal 8 department. I've been so busy lately that I haven't been able to prepare a package for my SP yet. I have reached out to her and maintained some sort of interation, though. I'll try to get something together by Tuesday, but then, there's the problem of getting it sent off. I'm off to work before the post office opens and I'm home after it closes. What to do? What to do? I'll figure something out.

By the way, the orange fabric in the background is some medium-weight linen I picked up a few months back. It was only $2/yd at a fabric warehouse near me! Can you believe it?! The color is awesome and the quality is outstanding. I think I see some cute summer capris in my near future.

How to design a pattern 101

2006-05-28T19:31:00.000-05:00

Lately, I've been thinking a lot about pattern designing. Not necessarily because I'm a genius and have an impeccable fashion sense (which I think I do have), but primarily because I enjoy knitting and want to knit things I'll actually wear. I'm trying to wear down the stash right now and there are no (free) patterns around that spark my interest. So in an effort to begin this pattern-making journey, I've decided to start with the acrylic stuff in my stash that's been marinating for close to a year. First up, Lion Brand Microspun. Here's my current swatch as I'm typing right now. I'm actually not fond of this stuff at all, but I thought it might be nice to design a cute summer top out of it seeing as how I only have 3 balls (501 yards) and it's white. The yarn is very splitty, yet quite soft. But, let's face it, it's acrylic and it just might pill like the dickens. Only time will tell. I think it's going to be lacey and constructed out of two rectangular pieces with minimal shaping. (Now that I think of it, that's pretty much how Orangina is constructed.) It will be knit using a US4 needle, and hopefully, it won't take forever. I'll post pattern notes as I go.

Lookie what I got!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2006-05-26T17:43:00.000-05:00

On Tuesday, I received this beautiful hand-made card from my Secret Pal! It's so nice and thoughtful. Here's what it says:

Hope you are knitting up a storm.

I can hardly wait to see more of your work!

Yours,

Secret Pal 8

And on the left-hand side of the card, it says:

Keep an eye out for a package of fun stuff!!!

OH, the mystery and the suspense!!!! I can hardly stand it!!!

By the way, being the natural-born sleuth that I am, I have a clue as to where my SP is from. The postmark on the envelope says Cleveland, OH. I am all over this!!!!!!!

More to come later.

Green Gable

2006-05-22T18:32:00.000-05:00

Pattern: Green Gable by Zephyr Style

Yarn: Brown Sheep Cotton Fleece in Wild Sage CW-360

Start: May 1, 2006

Finish: May 12, 2006

Modifications: I listened to some of the suggestions on the KAL and decided to incorporate some increases just before the arms were seperated. I completed 3 more increase rounds for a total of 6 additional rows overall. Looking back on it, I think I could have done without these. Because I felt like I'd be swimming in the finished product, I also added some waist shaping. (I didn't have anyone to help out with the photo shoot. It's impossible to get a shot of your side by yourself!) Just after the short rows (3 sets to accomodate the bust), I began to decrease 1 st each side every sixth row. I think I did this three times. Then, I decreased 2sts each side once I was 5" from the separation of the arms. I knit for two inches straight and increased 2 sts each side every six rows five times. This added a nice amount of shaping. I tried it on pre-blocking and the fit was perfect. I blocked it and it was HUGE! So, once it was mostly dry, I tossed it in the dryer for about 20 minutes and that did the trick! I'm happy with the outcome. I think if I make it again, which I probably will because it was such a quick knit, I'll omit the 3 increase rounds I added before the separation of the arms.

Pattern Rating: 9.5 - Just because I feel there wasn't enough waist shaping, but that's totally a personal preference.

Yarn Rating: 10 - I love this stuff!!! And I haven't had many good experiences with cotton in the past.

Would I knit this again?: Most definitely!

Keyhole detail

Just after completion (before sewing in the ends)

Busy, Busy, Busy

2006-05-20T15:54:00.000-05:00

I've been so busy this last week that it's ridiculous. I'm starting a new job on Monday, which is really exciting, except for that fact that the school situation is now up in the air. (to answer my SP8's question) I graduated in 03 with a bachelor's degree. I'm now (starting in September) pursuing my masters, but I may not be able to go full time like I had initially intended. This new job is like the cream of the crop and it's definitely a place where I want to put some serious time in. Therefore, I'm still debating whether full-time study is really feasible. Aside from the new job stuff, everyday life is more hectic than ususal. As far as knitting is concerned..................................I finished Green Gable last friday(5/14) and I started Pivocoli from MagKnits the next day. I'm using the Cotton Fleece in the 'Perry's Primrose' color that I bought for another project. I'll be finished with Pivocoli today. That's it for now. I'm in a serious rush!

Livin' For the Weekend!!!

2006-05-11T15:46:00.000-05:00

I have fallen in love.............again. The object of my desire is none other than the Weekender Bag by Amy Butler!

Sure, I've seen it around here and there on other blogs, but it didn't really catch my full attention until I saw an amazing version on Craftaholic's blog. Checkout her post on the finished bag. I'll wait...............................I told you it was amazing! I want one now very badly.

I've done a little internet searching and have found out that IslandGirl Ha ndbags sells the Amy Butler pattern at a good price with free shipping. I dug up some swatches, too. Tell me what you think.

Which color combo would you choose?

The print on the left would be the main one and the print on the right would be the lining, piping, and straps. However, if I were to choose the one on the upper left (which happens to be my first choice), I might do the piping and straps in a blue color that matches the flowers of the lining. I also like the print on the bag on the pattern cover, but I haven't yet found a coordinating lining that would suit my taste. I'd probably have to look for another brand of heavyweight home decor fabric.

Now, I'm asking for your help on this one. Any opinion would be much appreciated. Keep in mind that I like bold colors, I like for bags and/or shoes to stand out (i.e. they don't have to match), and I like anything that's very eye-catching. Also, this would, in no way, make a suitable weekend bag for me. I'd carry this more like a purse because, as I've mentioned before, I like my purses HUGE!

P.S. - There are also some really cute ones over at the Sew! I Knit sew-along.

Bact to Life, Back to Reality

2006-05-11T09:41:00.000-05:00

I feel like I've been out of it for the past week!! I've been battling some serious allergy issues, which is weird because the last time I've been out of commission like this due to seasonal allergies I was 16. And that was when my allergies first developed. Anywho, I'm feeling much better lately.

Having not blogged in over a week was making me feel incomplete. Seriously. I thought of so many new post topics, but I just couldn't get up the energy to take pictures and post.

I'll update you on what's been going on:

I was able to finish one of the ankle socks for my husband, and it fits him perfectly (that's my foot in the picture). I have since started the other. So far, they are a perfect match.

I've also been progressing nicely on Green Gable. Taking the suggestions of the knit-alongers, I opted to make additional increases for the size I'm knitting. Many who are making the two smallest sizes are having fit issues: it's too small. I made additional yoke increases before separating the sleeves (3 to be exact) and I also increased just under the arms after joining. This proved to be a mistake. I tried the thing on just as I past the bust area and there was an extra 4 inches of unwanted ease! I RIIIIIIIIPPPED until just before the sleeves were separated. I decided to knit this width straight for a while (about an inch), to accomodate the bust. I also added 3 short rows to help. After the short rows, I began decreasing two stitches per inch until 6 stitches had been decreased. Then I decreased 4 stitches at 5 inches like the pattern suggests. I knit for two inches straight, and I intend to increase back up to the ten stitches I decreased. This is my progress so far. I only have about four more inches of increases, the bottom ribbing, and the sleeve ribbing left. She shall be finished by Saturday, at the latest.

I will share that I also had some issues with the lace. For some reason, and I wasn't alone in this, I missed a YO somewhere and ended up with 1 fewer stitch after the first lace repeat. Instead of ripping, I increased a stitch where I thought it should go and continued. It was only until I was just about finished with the lace portion that I realized that my lace looked completely different from the lace pictured on the model. So what's a lazy knitter to do? Leave it there and call it CHARACTER! It created a nice diagonal lace pattern that was just as pretty! I think I might make another GG, and I'll be sure to knit her lace correctly.

Also, since the shirt is joined in the back, I decided to take advantage of that and create a cute keyhole opening in the back. I think it provides an added touch of femininity. I'll pick up some matching embroidery thread and crochet an edging and a button loop. I have a nice green pearl button in mind for the closure.

Also, since we're on the subject of knitting, look what I got this week!!!!

It was a gift from my stepmother, and though I'm sure this was not her intention, I think it will make a fabulous knitting bag. It's wide and roomy (just the way I like all of my bags) and has a little added sparkle (which you can't see in the photo) for glamour!!! I can carry a large project and all my necessities in one cute bag. I love it!

{In the back of the photo, you can see a glimpse of my everyday bag. I got it for a steal a year ago ($250 reduced to $50). It's a heavy black leather bag with a large woven pattern. It's taken a great deal of abuse, from carrying school books to clothes, and it still stands up to me!}

Secret Pal 8 Questionnaire

2006-05-03T11:40:00.000-05:00

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?

I don't particularly have a favorite brand of yarn, at least not yet. I do prefer to knit with wool, or some variation thereof, i.e. alpaca, cashmere, etc. I'm not totally opposed to cotton. I just don't have many successes to show with it. Though, the Cotton Fleece I'm using for Green Gable is beautiful, I'm sure that has much to do with the wool content!

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?

I currently have nothing to store my needles/hook (singular) in. They are all in their own plastic sleeves with a big rubberband wrapped around them. I know....I know......That sounds horrible! I actually attempted to make a needle holder a while back, but I guess I got bored with it because I have no idea what happened to the end result. I don't think I really liked the fabric I was going to use.

3. How long have you been knitting? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?

I have been knitting since I taught myself back in late 2003. I would consider my skill level to be intermediate, I guess. I'm always up for a new challenge, though, and normally, I choose patterns with something interesting in them - not just plain stockinette or plain shaping.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?

Not exactly, but if you refer to the post I wrote sometime back in March, I've listed a few books I'd love to have. To add to that list: Knitting From the Top (unsure of the author right now) would be a good one, too.

5. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.)

I definitely love soft scents, like vanilla, ginger, and soft florals like gardenia. I don't particularly care for rose scents or many citrusy-strong scents. My nose, and stomach, can be very finnicky at times. As long as the scent is light, musky, and not overpowering, I'm all over it.

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?

I actually prefer salt over sweet if I were to reach for a snack, but I cannot resist CHOC-O-LATE!!!! I love it. I really like the combination of chocolate and mint (think ThinMints or Andes).

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?

I sew. I make a lot of pants and skirts for work/church. I know how to crochet, but, as you can tell from my 1 crochet hook referenced above, I'd rather knit. Though, I would like to actually crochet a garment one day. The problem is that no patterns interest me. They all seem rather dated and matronly. But, of course, I haven't seen all patterns out there. I do have crochet how-to books up the wahzoo, though.

No, I do not spin, and I can't say that I want to learn any time soon. I'm sure it will become another obsession of mine, and my house just doesn't have the room for that!

8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)

I like many types of music but mostly hip-hop and R&B. My computer/stereo can play MP3s.

9. What's your favorite color? Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer? Any colors you just can't stand?

My favorite color is BLUE, hands down!!! I LOVE IT. This corresponds with my favorite color family, which reminds me of the ocean: BLUE, GREEN, TURQUOISE, WHITE, TAN, and any other color therein. When I was younger, I hated pink with a passion. Purple later joined pink in my disdain. As I've gotten older, though, I've been trying to welcome all colors into my wardrobe. (I swear everything is some variation of blue.) The colors just have to be very warm, cool, and inviting, nothing too harsh or vivid.

10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?

I am married with a 10 year-old stepdaughter who lives with us. We do not have any pets, though I would love to have about 14 dogs one day. My husband loves cats, but me, I can live without them. I don't dislike them. I'm just very impartial to them.

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?

I do wear scarves and hats (only when they can fit over my very big hair). When my hair is wild and big, I normally wear something to keep my ears covered, not earmuffs, per se - something more like a warm headband. I'd love to have a headscarf type of garment that acts as both a scarf and an earwarmer. I think they're called smoke-rings. (I could be very wrong on that one.) I don't wear mittens. I prefer gloves. And, I've never worn a poncho. I have considered making one for someone else in the past, but I'm just usually very averse to anything fad-like. And I saw that one coming miles away!!

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?

I don't yet have a favorite because I haven't knit all types of garments. I'm guessing socks could soon become a favorite, though. (Refer to my Sock Obsession post!)

13. What are you knitting right now?

Currently I'm knitting some ankle socks for my husband and Green Gable for me. I also have a Circular Shrug on the needles that hasn't gotten much attention.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?

I love handmade gifts - making them and receiving them. It shows how much someone cares and what efforts they're willing to share for you. But, if someone is totally uncrafty, I'd rather take something store bought!

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?

I think I prefer circular needles because they seem more practical to me. I can knit both flat and circular items from a circular needle. But sometimes, straights are less cumbersome for flat knitting over small surfaces. I prefer coated aluminum needles to bamboo. That's only because I haven't found a bamboo needle with pointy enough tips for me. I have one set of plastic US13 circs. I can't remember how I like them, so let's just say I'm pretty impartial to plastic. I also think bamboo needles hurt my wrists. I know they're supposed to be lighter than aluminum, but after I knit with them, the next morning my wrists are sore. (I'm almost convinced that this is the problem.)

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?

Nope, but I would love to. (Refer the to Please, Please, Please post!)

17. How did you learn to knit?

I taught myself with one of those Susan Bates Learn to Knit kits. I felt like my brain was turning to mush after having not been in school for a year. I thought it was time to learn something new, and I figured being able to wear what I made would be cool.

18. How old is your oldest UFO?

About 2 years and 5 months old. Just as long as I've been knitting. It's a cabled scarf that had a really great pattern, and I can't remember what pattern it was. I was using Lion Brand Wool Ease and just got bored. The recipient moved to FL, and I gave up. Just my luck - he is now back and requesting a scarf!

19. What is your favorite holiday?

I'm not sure that I have just one. I'd have to say Thanksgiving, because of the food, Christmas, because of the gifts and the food, and my birthday. (Yes, I seriously consider it a holiday. I take off from work and everything.)

20. Is there anything that you collect?

Nope. I think I want to start collecting silk scarves, though. I've been checking out vintage Gucci scarves on Ebay lately. But anything pretty, dainty, and colorful will surely be added to the collection.

21. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?

Refer to the Please, Please, Please post for the books.

I would like an Interweave subscription, but I just haven't gotten around to ordering it.

I'd like to try Addis one day soon.

I have seen some Misti Alpaca patterns I like and I have no idea how to buy them. This one, this one, this one, and maybe this one. I love almost all of the Karabella patterns. I recently bought a truckload of them from Kpixie. I also would really love to get my hands on Adrienne Vittadini pattern book #15 and some others.

For yarns, I'd like to try Elsebeth Lavold Silky Tweed and Silky Wool. I've heard they're nice. I'd like to try Karabella Aurora 8 and Aurora 4, as well. The color selection is amazing. Lorna's Laces Shepard Sock and Koigu KPPPM are also on my wish list for socks. I also want to knit some really cool knee socks (no patterns in mind) one day soon.

I could go on for days!

22. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?

Um....toe up socks (two at a time) using magic loop. I would need some long circs for that.

23. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?

I have recently delved into an obsession with knitting socks. They're perfect for taking anywhere. I wear a size 8.5 shoe (not sure what that is in inches), and I have a really narrow foot and heel. My ankles and calves are rather skinny as well.

24. When is your birthday? (mm/dd)

August 6th.

Project Review: FORECAST

2006-05-02T13:31:00.000-05:00

Since I don't have much knitting content today, because of an overwhelming feeling of BLAH, I decided to give Forecast the description she rightfully deserves.

Pattern: Forecast from the Winter '05 edition of Knitty. Designed by the very talented Glampyre.

Yarn: Cascade 220 Tweed (the suggested yarn) in Plum #7610 (or 610)

Modifications: I took the advice of Winnie and omitted the "billows" of the sleeves. I started the ribbing just afte the elbow. I also knitted 3-stitch bobbles, as opposed to the 5-stitch bobbles the pattern calls for. The pattern states that for the 36" size, only 4 skeins of yarn are needed. However, like Winnie, I used up 4.5 skeins. I found that a little odd, especially since I've seen a blogger elsewhere (can't remember who) who used only 3 skeins. Confusing.

Pattern Rating: 9 out of 10 stars - only because I have to modify it by knitting the sleeves and bobble differently. If I were the type to repeat a knitted item, I would definitely knit this again. Very fun. Very fast. And very well written.

Yarn Rating: 9.75 out of 10 stars - I realized, just into the 5th skein, that my finger tips were slightly pinker than usual. It's funny that I didn't realize this earlier. When I soaked the yarn, the water was a deep purple color. I added some vinegar to the rinse in hopes that that would help, but I made the mistake of wearing a white t-shirt under the sweater and it turned a light purpley-pink color. It came out in the wash. I just have to remember not to wear any light colors under Forecast for future reference.

Just chillin' on a Friday afternoon............

2006-04-28T12:52:00.000-05:00

This is where I was on the sock this morning. Can you tell I'm at work? I've now reached my toe, which I think should be a good length to begin the toe decreases for him, but I want him to try it on first so I can be sure. If anyone is interested in using this yarn in the future, take note that the striping sequence is unbelievably long. I still haven't reached the end of it. I thought it would be easy to have these socks match, but now I'm not so sure. Let's just hope that the other ball starts fairly close to where this one started.

And look who decided to make a guest appearance today at work!! Why, it's the ever popular Forecast, of course! I wanted to go a little casual today at work, so I threw her on on my way out the door. Don't you just love cardigans for that very reason? (This gives me a great idea for the topic of my next post!)

Socks, Glorious Socks!!!!

2006-04-26T11:02:00.000-05:00

I received my sock yarn the other day from The Knitter, and I couldn't be happier.
So, since I'm waiting for the Green Gable KAL to start, what did I do? I casted on, of course. This is where I was this morning at work. I'm further down the heel flap now - remember, these are ankle socks. I'm doing an Eye of the Partridge stitch. For the gusset and heel flap instructions, I figured I might as well use the same pattern I used for the only sock (or half sock) I made a few years ago with the Lions Brand Magic Stripes. I liked the fit of that one, and it looks good. The pattern came on the back of the yarn label, which I threw away. I was able to find the pattern on the Lion Brand website, though. Click here if you're interested.

COME ON ALREADY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2006-04-24T09:50:00.000-05:00

As you can see, I've swatched for Green Gable. Some people in the KAL have already started, and some have finished. I just want to be a good knit-alonger and wait for the official start date May 1st.

Looking at the picture, you might notice that my swatch is rather........uh..........meager, to say the least. I think it's about 8 rows in length and 30 stitches around. I just can't commit to knitting a complete 4"x4" swatch for stockinette like most do. I think it's a total waste of time and yarn. Now, don't get me wrong. Guage swatches are extremely important. They only need to be that large if you're working on something that call for it, like fair isle, an ornate cable design, or something of the sort. You feel me?

By the way, my guage was dead on!

Out on the town!

2006-04-22T11:31:00.000-05:00

Forecast is finally dry!!!!! I tried her on, and the fit is perfection. Looking at it block, I thought maybe it might be too wide and the sleeves too long. I was completely wrong (and right now, that's a good thing). Check it out! I love her so much, I think I'll take her out for a night on the town!!!!!

SOCK OBSESSION

2006-04-19T08:07:00.000-05:00

I mentioned in earlier posts that I have a newfound love for sock yarn. I once tried knitting socks. The dpns were very akward to me. I did get through the heel of the first sock, just before the toe shaping, but for whatever reason, I put it down never to pick it up again. The yarn I used was Lion Brand Magic Stripes. I didn't particularly care for the color combo, which is probably part of the reason why they were abandoned. In one of my cleaning funks, I threw away a good bit of unused yarn. I tried to return to the sock a couple of weeks ago and realized that I must have tossed out the rest of the skein of the Magic Stripes. That was a dumb move. I wanted to actually get through a pair of socks to see if I'd really be interested in continuing to knit more. Alas, this is what's left of my first venture into sock knitting:

After trying this on, I realized that they are extremely comfy! I love how the heel of the sock hugs my foot. This definitely feels much better than any store-bought socks I have.

My sock obsession lives on! I want to try all different types of heels and toes to see which ones my feet like best. I should probably fill you in on my feet. I wear an 8.5 shoe. My feet are very narrow: one is actually a double A and the other is an A. (I only know this because I sold shoes through college. A normal width is a B.). Also, the narrower foot is a full half size longer than the other. Weird, I know. One more thing, my heels are very, very, very skinny. My husband says I have the skinniest heels in the world, and he's amazed at how I can balance on them. I think they're quite normal, actually, seeing as how I've lived with them for 24 years now.

But anyway, I have major plans for my sock knitting future. I prefer using the Magic Loop method over dpn's and I don't think the 2 circ method is very practical for me. I just don't see buying 2 of the same size circs to work on a single project. I might like toe-up better than cuff-down, as well, because you know I don't like to have too many leftoevers! I will try both, though.

I'm going to knit the Regia I mentioned the other day for my husband and my nephews. I figure I can try out a few techniques on their socks to see what I actually prefer to knit. Then, I'm going to knit the Trekking 110 for me. Those will be be basic stockinette with a heel flap. I think that best shows off the color gradiation of the yarn. Since I want to knit them toe-up, I may use the reverse Dutch Heel technique. Then, I'd like to knit a cabley pair similar to Badacul. All of her sock patterns are amazing. Another cabley pair I like is this one. This one I'd prefer in a solid color yarn - probably some Lorna's Laces. Then, I'd like to knit some lacey ones like these. So many choices, so few hands!

I could seriously go on and on and on, but I won't bore you any further. I'm thinking of starting a sock study to document my thoughts on the different heel and toe techniques. That, of course, would mean alot of knitting and even much more yarn. I think I'm up for the challenge!

I'm off to Trenton tomorrow and Friday for a seminar. Doesn't sound very interesting, but any break from work is well worth it!

Toodles!

Spring Interweave Knits Preview (2 Posts In One Day)

2006-04-18T11:36:00.000-05:00

The Spring Preview for Interweave Knits is up! I see some real potential here! I especially like the Marseilles Pullover and the Fairy Net Blouse. There are a couple of other designs I find intriguing. I think I need a closer look to make any final decisions. I also like the Cambridge Jacket. It's a basic zip cardigan with good structure that lends itself to a number of modifications. That's one to add to the archives.

Right On Schedule

2006-04-18T10:07:00.000-05:00

So, my little schedule for Forecast actually worked out. I finished her off on Saturday around 11:30 am and set her out to dry last night. I should really get some type of appropriate blocking board, but there's just limited space where I live, and I absolutely despise clutter. I normally just lay out some cardboard with towels on top of that. I'll rotate the towels as needed when they begin to feel damp to help keep the water away from the knit as it dries.

I finished her early enough to pick up some buttons while I was running some errands. The store I went to has an enormous selection of buttons, but nothing seemed quite right or worthy of Forecast. I chose these. (Sorry about the blurry picture.) They'll work, but I'm not entirely convinced.

This is what I like to call Cascade Mountain!

I received my order from WEBS, and the colors are just what I expected! (Colors are fairly accurate in the above pic) I really like the Coral color. When I think of coral, I think of a mixture of pink and orange. This one has slightly less orange than pink, but it's still very pretty. The Green Teal Heather is a little darker than the picture on the website, but I like it. It's heathered with rust and brown colored strands.

IN OTHER KNITTING NEWS:

I signed up for the Green Gable Knitalong! It's scheduled to begin on May 1, which gives me ample time to focus on other things.

That's her on top of my newly organized knitting basket. I keep my current projects here. I also keep all the pretty yarn here so I can pet it occasionally! With my 2 weeks of free knitting time, I think I'll swatch my new yarns and work on Cirque (formerly known as the Craftster Circular Shrug).

Ta, ta for now!

Forecast Progress

2006-04-14T07:45:00.000-05:00

Here's a short update on Forecast. This is where she was yesterday afternoon. By yesterday evening, I was able to finish the right arm (left as you see it). Today, since I get off work early, I'll try to finish the left arm, and then, I'd like to finish the buttonbands on Saturday. This is all in my perfect little world, assuming I do absolutely nothing tonight and tomorrow afternoon. I highly doubt that, but a girl can dream. Can't she?

Sorry about the blurry pic. I'm still trying to figure out the whole shutter speed thing on my camera. It would help if I actually read the manual. Right?

A blog without pictures

2006-04-13T07:54:00.000-05:00

......can sometimes be very boring to me. I've been surfing knitting blogs for a couple of years now, and I've come to the realization that I am an extremely visual person. I spend a good chunk of my day surfing the blogs and admittedly it's only at work. So I don't have time to read through an entire post to see if it's something I'm interested in reading. The pictures normally draw me in. After the pictures, I'd have to say it's the title that also draws me in. For this very reason, I will make a conscious effort to include images with every post. Now, I didn't promise that these would be images of knitting, so keep an open mind.

By the way, did you notice that this post doesn't have a picture. Just making sure you're paying attention.

Back in Action

2006-04-11T11:20:00.000-05:00

I'm back from my mini-vacation. We had a great time. We visited a golf resort in VA. No, we don't golf, but the trip was an anniversary gift from my father. Does my father golf? Nope. I have no clue as to why he chose a golf resort, but we enjoyed ourselves just the same. A trip to VA meant 6 hours of uninterrupted knitting time! Woo hoo!!!. But I only knit for about 3 hours on the way there until it became too dark out to see anything. I thought I'd be able to knit all the way home since we left early in the morning but no such luck. Hubby wanted me to drive all the way home since he did drive all the way there. That was okay because I made alot of progress on Forecast. This is what it looked like before I left:

(The color isn't too accurate here. It's Cascade 220 Plum #7610. The color is much deeper and with a smidgen (sp?) more of a red undertone than blue. Either way, I love it.)

During the trip, I was able to complete the rest of the body and start on one of the sleeves. I'm only a couple of rows into the sleeve, but I think that's impressive progress (for me, anyway) for only 4.5 hours of knitting time. Like I said, I knit for about 3 hours in the car ride there and 1.5 hours on Saturday afternoon after we got back from the pool and before we went out for the night. This is a close up of the yarn (natural daylight shot) and a comparison shot from the ebay site.

The ebay shot is much more accurate. You should check out the seller, too. It's Mrs. Knits Yarn Shop. She has a great collection of all things Cascade!

I also started the Circle Shrug from Craftster. I'm using the suggested yarn. I thought this would be a nice inexpensive project. I'm more interested in the construction than anything else. If I like it, I'll make it in other colors and different yarn choices, incorporating different patterns. We'll see how it goes. I bought enough yarn, 3 skeins, to make this with long sleeves. And, can you believe that the yarn was only $1.97 each at the local A.C. Moore??!! That was the major impetous for trying this out.

This was my progress as of one week ago, but I've since ripped it. I used the tubular cast-on, which came out great. But I found this tutorial on a 2x2 tubular cast-on , courtesy of Winnie's site (scroll down to 5/26/05), that I figure would look much better. Since this is sort of an experimental knit, I'm not rushing it.

I've never been pegged for much of a purple kinda girl, excluding, of course, the Cascade pictured above. With that being said, I have 8 skeins of Patons Grace in a lavender color. I'm not sure what possessed me to buy it. Wait - could it have been the $2/ea sale price 2 years ago? That's probably it. Anyway, I attempted to make something out of it a while back, but came to the realization that I would never, ever, ever wear the thing. So, I toyed with the idea of selling it, but it's mine and I don't want anyone else to have it. I can be very territorial that way! Anyway, I've decided to recreate the shirt to the right. No, it's not knit, but I love the fit and the picot edging around the neckline and arms. It's made with an empire waist, and it has darts at the bust for shaping. I can easily recreate this if I were to sew it, but I'm not sure where to begin with knitting it - specifically with regards to the darts that run vertically, not horizontally like those achieved with short rows. Any suggestions? Here's what the yarn color looks like:

It's Lilac 60321

Time For A Little Reward

2006-04-07T11:44:00.000-05:00

You can stop holding your breath now. I did an amazing job on my GMAT. Just need to get those acceptance letters rolling in, and it'll be ALL GOOD!

So, as a "litte" reward to myself, I bought some yarn....... some really good yarn!

I bought this from Ebay seller Oregon*Trail*Yarn:

Check out the store. I think they will be my Brown Sheep Co. enabler/supplier from now on. The color is Perry's Primrose and I'm going to make this:

I've seen this pattern around for ages and it's never really moved me, but I saw a really cute one (scroll down to 4/14/04) made by Carrieoke. I thought hers was really pretty, and I could possibly see myself wearing one this Summer with a cute jean skirt and something cute on my feet. She did say that it only took 2 skeins of Cotton Fleece. You can't beat that!

I also bought this from the same seller mentioned above:

To make none other than:

You guessed it. Green Gable from the wonderful girls over at Zephyr Style. I saw this last week and fell in love with the color. I emailed the ladies to see exactly what color Cotton Fleece it was knit with and Rachel was extremely helpful. They're cool. I'll be sure to order from them in the future.

I also bought some sock yarn from TheKnitter.com. They didn't have a wide array of Regia colors. I specifically wanted some from the Regia Canada line, but because their prices are awesome and shipping is free, I ordered enough for two pairs of socks. I briefly mentioned my newfound sock obsession in one of the previous posts. We'll get back to that at a later date. This is what I got:

Trekking 110 (for me)

Regia Mini Ringel

5210 (for the Mr.)

I'm excited to get started on his because it will be my first official pair of handknit socks and they were requested specifically by him. There is one thing though - he wants them to be ankle socks. That's all fine and good, but what am I supposed to do with the leftover yarn? It's self-striping and I doubt I'll buy more. You might wonder why this perplexes me so. I'm very frugal and efficient (FRUGAL, not CHEAP). And when it comes to buying things, I want to make sure I get my money's worth. You know? I thought about it for a while and I've decided to knit my 4mo old twin nephews some socks with the leftovers! There is a total lack of cute socks for little baby boys. Their only options are solid colored (boring) socks. So in an effort to make their transition into manhood smooth (I am fully aware that they are only 4 months old), I am going to make them some manly socks!

I'm also excited about the Trekking socks for myself. I've seen so many gorgeous color out there on other blogs, like here and here and here. It took me quite a while to choose a colorway. 100 is everywhere, and though it's a great colorway, I wanted something different. I was torn between a couple but 110 really stood out to me. I did a little sneeking and was able to see what they actually look like knit up. That's something I could really live with!

I also bought some Cascade 220 from the Webs 32nd Anniversary Sale. $4.97/skein people! I bought some in 7804 Coral and 4007 Greed Teal Heather. These are for projects I have whizzing around in my head. One is very practical for me and the other - not so much. I do have a Karabella pattern I could use it for if my plans fall through. Now, if I could only learn how to write up a pattern!

Going on a little vacation this weekend to celebrate our anniversary. I'll be back next week with progress photos and whatever else I may feel like venting about.

Broken Promises

2006-04-03T17:30:00.000-05:00

I'm sorry. I know I promised pictures by Thursday, but I've been studying incessantly for the GMAT. Technically, the pictures have been in my camera since Wednesday. (I know it's close, but no cigar.) I take the test tomorrow. If you're the praying sort, which I am, send up a prayer for me. If you're not, wish me luck! Tubey is done and I've already started on Forecast from Knitty (no link right now. I'm in a rush.) in a beautiful plum-colored Cascade 220 Tweed. Wasn't sure about the color at first, but now I'm in love. More details to come on Tubey, and I'll also update you all on my newfound sock obsession later. Okay, time to get back to studying. If I study for the next 2.5 hours, I'll have enough time to knit on Forecast while I watch tonight's episode of 24.

ETA: 4/4/06 - Link to Forecast added along with a picture of the completed Tubey (details later).

Secret Pal 8 - Sshhhhhhhh!

2006-03-28T16:17:00.000-05:00

So, Secret Pal 8 is about to kick off. Sign-ups open on April 1, and it begins on May 15. I. WANT. IN. I've never participated in the past because I have never had an actual blog. (I attempted it in the past but never stuck with it.) Now, I am amped and ready to go. How about you?

Harder than it looks

2006-03-27T14:57:00.000-05:00

This blogging thing is definately harder than it looks! I've been trying to change the appearance of my blog, but the templates available on Blogger are very BLAH (to say the least). I actually have a degree in Computer Programming, so you would think whipping up a snazzy-looking blog would be easy for me, but I gave up the computer stuff as soon as I walked off with that degree.

Don't get me wrong. I am very technology-savvy. I even taught it for a while to students in grades K-12, but I don't remember much of HTML. I can only remember the basics, but I am determined to learn it all again. So, in the meantime, there will be some day-to-day changes here in the appearance of the blog. Considering the fact that I only blog while at work (yup, I'm sly like a fox), the changes will be added little by little.

Oh, and as for the pictures, they are forthcoming. Their arrival should be no later than Thursday of this week. Please, feel free to quote me on that one!

ETA: The Short Row Rib scarf is complete. This picture is utterly horrible, and I won't be upset if you laugh. After 3 years with this camera, I'm just now deciding to learn how to perfect my picture-taking skills. This was my attempt at a MagKnits-like shot. By the way, I am well aware that the picture is sideways. "Do I intend to rotate it?", you ask. "No", I answer. I have to get back to work, but you get the idea. The wool is very soft and squishy. I love this scarf.

Please, please, please!

2006-03-16T15:49:00.000-05:00

I recently came across two books that I really, really, really want. {Hubby, pay very close attention.}

The first one is this: The Yarn Girls' Guide to Beyond the Basics
I first spotted this on the Knitpicks website. I was drawn to the hooded sweater that was modeled. I forget what yarn they were suggesting, but I thought the sweater looked nicely detailed and comfortable. But I refuse to buy anymore pattern books online until I can see all the patterns available. I've wasted many a dollar that way. Then I saw the book in a local bookstore, and I think there were about 4 or 5 patterns that I'd actually make and, get this, WEAR! But they were selling it for $30, and I wasn't sure about the price. I did some scouring and I found it here for a steal. This is officially added to my wishlist.

The second one is this: THIS one by Ann Budd
Sure, I've seen it around everywhere, but I never got the chance to really thumb through it. I finally did one evening at Barnes & Noble. I think it's a real wealth of information. I'd like to add this to my collection of knitting technique books.

This recent yearning for knitting books got me to thinking. What do I really want for my birthday? It's only less than 5 months away in August. (the 6th to be exact. please mark your calendars NOW) I think there are only a few things I truly want.

1. An ipod: I love those things, and though I don't listen to music that often, I would like something to workout to. I like running in the park, and this would be the ideal accompaniment. I'll take a Nano, as long as it's 4GB. And if that's the case, I might as well get the 30GB Video for $50 more.

2. Money: You can never go wrong with this one. OR CAN YOU?!!? I remember as a teenager, I would ask for money as a gift. That abruptly changed as soon as I got the hang of the "money gift". For example, say I asked a good friend or an aunt for money, they would likely pass me a $20 or a $10 and be on their way. After thinking about it for a while, I soon realized that if they bought me an actual gift, they would have spent more than the mere $10 or $20 on it. And if their gift would have cost more than $20, what the heck could I have bought for myself that I already didn't have (CD's, etc.) which would have cost $10? Follow me? It was then that I vowed never to ask for money as a gift. I realize now that that's pretty greedy, and it's the thought that counts, but you still have to wonder. I have now resolved to only asking a select few for monetary gifts (i.e., father, sister, husband). I know they can be trusted! :)

3. Yarn: Do I really need to go any further?

ETA: 4/3/06 - I would also REALLY love to have a ball winder. Those cute little cakes they make are so efficient and much quicker than the way I usually wind them - by hand.

I told you there was knitting in progress

2006-02-28T15:36:00.000-05:00

So, while I was knitting away on Tubey, I decided to start a new project. Enter the Short Row Rib scarf.
I figure it's always good to have something small on the needles at all times. (More on this later.) I picked up some Araucania (sp?) chunky wool at the local A.C. Moore. Truth be told, I was only supposed to be in there to pick up a replacement Clover needle, but I didn't realize they actually sold this yarn. After petting it for a while, I decided to buy it specifically for this pattern. The colorway I chose is a black/charcoal/pewter mix. Very pretty. So pretty, in fact, that I carried it around in my pocket book the next day just to pet it! Come on! I know I'm not the only one. Any way the scarf if finished now, and I love it. This was a very easy pattern to remember and the results are nice with a chunky wool like the one I used. I couldn't complete as many pattern repeats as the directions call for, so I just did as many as my yarn would allow, and I blocked the heck out of it. Final result: the scarf is nice and long; lightweight and especially warm. I'd recommend it to anyone, especially for gift-knitting.

First Official Post!

2006-02-27T13:59:00.000-05:00

This is my first officical post. I decided to pick up knitting again because, as crazy as it sounds, I don't like sitting still for too long. I feel as though I'm not getting anything accomplished. After taking a year long hiatus, I am officially addicted again!

Browsing through the recent issue of Knitty a couple of weeks back also prompted my return to knitting. I wanted Tubey in my life desperately! So, digging through my huge mound of acrylic horror, which was accumulated while I was teaching myself to knit, I found four skeins of Lion Brand Cotton Ease in Blueberry I could use for this project. Of course, I would have rathered use the Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran called for in the original pattern. However, I didn't actually want to spend money on yarn unitl I was ready to commit to knitting again. With this being said, I decided to make Tubey more of a Spring/Summer top because of the Cotton Ease. So, I adjusted the pattern by making the sleeves short with a nice 3x2 ribbed hem. Also, because I'm not sure if the Cotton Ease will stretch out over time, I might make the ribbed body snugger by picking up fewer stitches than called for. Only time will tell.

The progress so far is minimal. I know, I know. I haven't gotten much accomplised for 2 weeks worth of knitting but I have quite a few crazy things going on at the moment............................One of them being work, which I should be getting back to right about now!