tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2111464547194695202024-03-13T14:24:06.574-04:00Fiber JunkyFIBER JUNKY: Adventures of a spinning, knitting,reading, dog training,essential oil using chick with a serious fiber habit, along with an occassional word from her enablers, er, friends.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12968573202733681308noreply@blogger.comBlogger66125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-211146454719469520.post-10912464983784562572016-03-24T09:04:00.001-04:002016-03-24T09:04:09.858-04:005 Things to Keep in Mind When Knitting Through Tough Times<p dir=ltr>Since my last post, I have gone through a major life change. In July of 2014, my husband was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer, and it announced itself with a seizure and a car accident. After almost a year of chemo, pain, multiple medical emergencies, and numerous hospital stays, he passed away on June 26, 2015, exactly 11 months after his diagnosis. </p>
<p dir=ltr>After almost a year of caring for and supporting Mark, I had to deal not only with losing him, but also with losing my purpose and daily routine. I had to leave my job to care for him, and so I really had nothing. It was like this huge numbing void took over my life. People really rally around youun when someone is very ill, but after they're gone, people tend to go back to life as usual. I'm not saying that everyone up and abandoned me, far from it, but I felt very alone and lost.</p>
<p dir=ltr>One of the things that helped me keep it together was my fiber arts. I knitted my way through hospital stays and bad nights. I spun yarn when I didn't have the brain power to knit, and I eventually purchased a loom and added weaving to my recovery. I honestly don't think that I would have made it through without having these things to give my brain and body a rest. </p>
<p dir=ltr>If you are struggling with greif, loss, or stress, keep knitting! </p>
<p dir=ltr>1. Pick a project that just keeps your hands busy for those times that following a pattern is to draining. Just the rhythmic motion of your hands can be soothing. An easy garter stitch scarf or plain vanilla socks might fit the bill.</p>
<p dir=ltr>2. Have another project up and running that is more absorbing for when you need to give your brain a rest. I know that, for me, it was one of the few things that allowed me to get away when I needed a a break from all of the emotion. </p>
<p dir=ltr>3. Look to the future and browse through patterns on Ravelry. I found that this gave me a sense of future beyond what I was currently dealing with. </p>
<p dir=ltr>4. Consider making a gift of your knitting to the people in your life who are there for you. I knitted a shawl for Mark's chemo nurse. She was always there with support for both of us. I also knitted some gifts for some of our friends who threw us a fundraiser. </p>
<p dir=ltr>5. Don't beat yourself up if you just can't concentrate enough to knit, or do anything besides what has to be done. There were days when I was lucky to just take care of Mark's needs, and get some food in my belly. You need to just try to roll with what comes along. </p>
<p dir=ltr>I'm definitely one of the lucky ones. I did manage to get through it all with the help of good family and friends, my knitting, and a little medication. I found a great guy to share my life with, and expect to have a happy future with. I have my dogs that I work with. I have totes full of yarn stash to plan with. While I still miss Mark, and always will, I have found a way forward, and for this, I'm extremely grateful. </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO-5ytCudMgLJhJaA94xqUxc6WHPHnHZR_EHUnjIus2gOR4NK2VK-cjJl6sNr-SRNEFmgYBXKNpQm3rFCfjjCAJDdHwGlZkkVofdZC5XW_6IU_fPo-c8fGE6Uolf9YYltenJpzybz1hnwX/s1600/IMG_20140505_105118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO-5ytCudMgLJhJaA94xqUxc6WHPHnHZR_EHUnjIus2gOR4NK2VK-cjJl6sNr-SRNEFmgYBXKNpQm3rFCfjjCAJDdHwGlZkkVofdZC5XW_6IU_fPo-c8fGE6Uolf9YYltenJpzybz1hnwX/s640/IMG_20140505_105118.jpg"> </a> </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12968573202733681308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-211146454719469520.post-53365502817378831972014-04-01T09:14:00.001-04:002014-04-01T10:03:52.968-04:00Fibery Goodness RoundupThings have been a bit hectic since my last post. My hubby started a new chemotherapy drug which is leaving him drained and ill, and this week he has several brain radiation treatments, which added to his chemo, will do a serious number on his energy, along with some nasty headaches.<br />
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My big excitement was having my Brainless Cowl featured on A Baby's Smile blog for Inspiration Monday. To see the post and find out more about the Inspiration Monday linky party, head over to A Baby's Smile and say hello.</div>
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<a href="http://www.ababyssmile.com/blog/2014/03/inspiration-mondays-8/">http://www.ababyssmile.com/blog/2014/03/inspiration-mondays-8/</a><br />
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My Event Horizon Pi Shawl is in the end stages, with the border going on slowly, but surely. I'm looking forward to the Solid Sock Ravelry Group KAL that will be starting on April 4th, and have my yarn set aside for that.<br />
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Yesterday, I found out that our county 4H is going to be giving a fundraiser for us, to help raise money to cover our medical expenses. Even though we are fortunate to have good health insurance, copays alone are practically breaking us. I haven't been working because I've been home with him, and, as you can imagine, things are just horribly stressful. I'm going to be knitting a shawl to be auctioned off, and I've chosen to do Annis, from Knitty.com, although I'm going to replace the nupps with beads.<br />
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For my quilting friends, I saw this post over on Bloglovin', and had to share this fat quarter giveaway. Please head right over and get your entry in, because, seriously, this fabric is GORGEOUS!<br />
<a href="http://thatlookslikeitneedsstitches.blogspot.com/2014/03/purple-punch-giveaway.html?showComment=1396355960026#c2991492357011828841">Seriously..I think it needs stitches.: Purple Punch Giveaway</a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12968573202733681308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-211146454719469520.post-44489538170034630522014-03-19T10:05:00.001-04:002014-03-25T00:08:58.541-04:00#WIPWednesday : The Event Horizon Pi Shawl<div dir="ltr">
I love this shawl, and learned a lot from knitting her. I'm finally in the home stretch, and ready to bind off. I cast on New Year's day, and was supposed to finish on Pi Day, 3/14, but that obviously didn't happen. </div>
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<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/event-horizon-pi-shawl">The Event Horizon Pi Shawl</a> , by Donna Druchunas, was featured in her book, Stories in Stitches 2, and is only one of many projects, along with accompanying stories, that can be found in this lovely little book.</div>
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More information on designer and author Donna Druchunas, can be found on her website, <br />
<a href="http://sheeptoshawl.com/">Sheep to Shawl</a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12968573202733681308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-211146454719469520.post-87468608299681005532014-03-18T09:57:00.001-04:002014-03-25T19:14:11.220-04:00Free Pattern: The Brainless Cowl<a href="http://www.ababyssmile.com/blog/inspiration-mondays/" target="_blank"><img alt="Inspiration Mondays" src="http://www.ababyssmile.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/ABSknits_linkup.jpg" /></a><br />
I'm happy to say, the Brainless Cowl is just that, brainless. I was looking for a way to use up some of my many skeins of handspun yarn, and sometimes I could knit on autopilot while I read a book. Hence, the Brainless Cowl, a giftable project you can complete in an evening while sitting in front of movie or reading a book.<br />
<div dir="ltr">This cowl is simplicity itself. For the cowl pictured, I cast on 80 stitches on a set of US 10, 16 in circular needles, and I knit for 5 rounds, purled for 5 rounds, alternating as I went, ending on a knit set, and bound off loosely when I ran out of my skein of worsted weight handspun yarn.</div><div dir="ltr">This pattern is very easy to adapt to any weight yarn. If you are using fingering weight, go down to a US size 6 needle, and increase your stitch count to 120. If you want a longer cowl, kust add more stitches.</div><div dir="ltr">I hope you enjoy this fast, stress free knit.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgThTeFxTGuzjDg9mpHI5Q_e1C_fXdGo_h0ff7pJx5Ycc2N4xLkQ487wF5DhRVAIx3H1eDW7JegQOLLDvxHUMqRvN_u78VWLL10E0d6tDfbSIRz0MHjghI9hhjKWBa18VVtzqc6yuiNnyPe/s1600/PhotoGrid_1395082417013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgThTeFxTGuzjDg9mpHI5Q_e1C_fXdGo_h0ff7pJx5Ycc2N4xLkQ487wF5DhRVAIx3H1eDW7JegQOLLDvxHUMqRvN_u78VWLL10E0d6tDfbSIRz0MHjghI9hhjKWBa18VVtzqc6yuiNnyPe/s640/PhotoGrid_1395082417013.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://wp.me/p3KkEy-cw%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”"><img alt="”" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12968573202733681308noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-211146454719469520.post-87941480275219261682014-03-12T14:45:00.000-04:002014-03-12T15:00:26.473-04:00I Think I Will Take Up Sewing<p dir="ltr"><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/6284295/?claim=9ey6jxgvz3z">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a></p>
<p dir="ltr">I think I'm going to take up sewing. This has been something that has nagged T me for years, which is a bit absurd. After all, I own three sewing machines. Yes, three. They keep coming into my life and my home, and amazingly enough, no matter what I do, I can't seem to make those suckers work. They always end up with a tangled mess around the bobbin, or the whole thing just sort of seizes up. At first, I thought it was the machi2 that were at fault. After all, I'm a pretty crafty girl. I'm a more than competent knitter. I make my own yarn. Really, what could be so difficult about running a sewing machine. Even kids do it all the time.</p>
<p dir="ltr">In an effort to get these machines working, I had some sewing friends of mine take them for a test drive. I was completely disgusted to hear that the machines were just fine, and actually worked very well. Hmm.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Further proof that I'm supposed to be sewing something lies in the fact that I have multiple totes of beautiful fabric, and by multiple, I mean no less than five. If the universe didn't want me to do this, I can't imagine that so much sewing paraphernaliaon would have been dumped in my lap to steal space in my house.</p>
<p dir="ltr">So, in the face of all of this evidence, I think it's time to put some of these lovely fabrics to work decorating my home. If I can ever figure out how to make those stupid sewing machines work!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgceuZkiXd8ud0BB2Z-lk0q8ljlGiYOe_h1eCT01iBYiTiWL0O1WBh6Nw_FEJ1hpYLrp1Fm20SVQlf6B8gw9HAQvc0eN7Z6LTcQkX32kpOJnEmVb86eXlSSWpC-t9kdBHLYxb_vvkObZk3n/s1600/20140312_144912.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgceuZkiXd8ud0BB2Z-lk0q8ljlGiYOe_h1eCT01iBYiTiWL0O1WBh6Nw_FEJ1hpYLrp1Fm20SVQlf6B8gw9HAQvc0eN7Z6LTcQkX32kpOJnEmVb86eXlSSWpC-t9kdBHLYxb_vvkObZk3n/s640/20140312_144912.jpg"> </a> </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12968573202733681308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-211146454719469520.post-70877357555357087442014-02-17T11:56:00.001-05:002014-02-17T12:52:43.916-05:00An Eventful Year<div dir="ltr">
I couldn't believe it when I saw I hadn't posted in almost a year. Most likely because it has been, long, stressful, terrifying, and more than a little eventful. Last summer, my husband was diagnosed with cancer, which announced itself with a seizure. He went from being relatively healthy, active, and working full time, to being a cancef victim in the hospital over the course of one day. It totally blind sided us. We had no idea anything was wrong. After the seizure, he was in and out of the hospital for several months, one admission being the result of a heart attack about two weeks after the cancer diagnosis, almost certainly brought on by stress. </div>
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In the meantime, my son was holding down the home front, while I stayed at the hospital with my husband. Four days after we found out about the cancer, on the day they started the preparation to start radiation treatments, my son called to tell me my dog passed away. He'd taken her to the vet the day before because she was feverish and wouldn't drink. I was completely devastated. I literally cried for two hours. I'd worked so hard to hold it together for my husband's sake, and this completely put me over the edge. I was so bad, they had a staff person following me around thinking I was having a breakdown. I probably was.</div>
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I think knitting totally saved my sanity. I dragged it to the hospital, to the oncologist office, pretty much everywhere. Even though I didn't ever seem to make much progress, it soothed and absorbed me enough to get me through. </div>
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Time just seems to get away from me now. I'm working part time, mostly from home, and my husband is popping in and out of work as he's able. We just seem to live in a whirl wind of doctor appointments, chemotherapy, and down days to regroup. One thing is for sure, no matter how crazy life gets, or how much time I spend sitting in doctors offices and hospital rooms, my knitting will be a constant. Right now, I'm working on my <a href="http://ravelry.com/projects/SpinningMommy/event-horizon-pi-shawl">Event Horizon Shawl</a> by Donna Druchunas. Definitely an absorbing knit. </div>
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Below is a small sampling of some of the things I've knit over the past few months. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTy56BQvfZ-yoJBl-6P-OSrLjSjMfKSUaucuwprIM07dlUK6frKisy4wEr6XumYPCnb0nzWR1rxnVFwfwiQ7KUnxsvtnuyILQPm7DVLyGiNTO35sGuTOrAL7RB0J91362Hh45Q7gqVWtEX/s640/IMG_20140128_084836.jpg" height="240" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beginning of my Event Horizon Pi Shawl</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcsubkCXsBWQxUURRUPSWnd6fYcef8CLnpyPV0CYkj9F_V1HQDCpR0-1NxqsAhijSG1RsdF1M-Pm0oLa94913f-VqflF3GCSkx4S2KjTAahxi1VVslpnN2x_dku7nOMGKhn-9XwqNrh-FS/s640/20140131_180930.jpg" height="240" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Easy Handspun Cowl: Cast on 75 stitches on size 10 circular needle. Join in the round. Knit 5 rows, purl 5 rows, until the cowl is the size you want. End cowl with 5 knit rows. The handspun was a heavy worsted weight. Easy enough to read while you knit. A definite winner, and you can finish it in a sitting! </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby bonnet. I've knit several of these now. Threaded with pretty ribbon, it makes a great gift.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Socks I knit from one of the Jane Austen Knits magazines. </td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12968573202733681308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-211146454719469520.post-61777528665336709352013-03-14T17:21:00.001-04:002013-03-15T11:14:43.185-04:00Yarn Tastings and New Babies Things have certainly been exciting around here. After a long and difficult pregnancy, my sister Brittany has mad me an Auntie again. Ireland Ellen made her appearance on Monday with great fanfare.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTXkkL4ier8KefECDhpfaFOBCc0Bv26Nvt7juau-WUspSwV0ZViZpCyMJPYH0PVGJPjKOPJLzwA3v0KyeIIjwXsCrlkvb3Ux0XfFEn4aUk-bv_9_vc0YgnHbKXjupOirAs8EpohgS-Uc9W/s320/2013-03-13_13-50-33_775.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="180" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and Ireland</td></tr>
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While waiting for her arrival, I spent some time working on my entrelac baby blanket for my cousin. I'm working on weaving in the ends as I go. Hopefully it will save me some serious hassles later<br />
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<img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1o_jSVFPec7c_g7AOBSc9sqr7FhfAuCQudYrzgyNDU4Coeh9wb9FhmeE0YJYfgB9_-gQFu3z66V23wscQfh6wsoLIB5zdnznYF26MSupPNwWnbPCyIxm3nENELgBsYgPjbCf4qRx-PwbP/s320/2013-03-11_11-32-02_217.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Weaving in ends as I go. Yay me!</td></tr>
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Last night I attended a yarn tasting at Common Thread in Saratoga Springs, NY.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv0l4LMb5ykRmmfwGuzxFJmk65r0Q21dTBUowtidkKV7rxTrIoc0nFnIHGefBZ3nhTA_V7XzMcH275wwZO7MLuKjd2fLaSFPmYv3WUbQ8YDSuOsUgAc_ODiZJmu3b297Xwn1ItowbstwCd/s1600/2013-03-13_19-19-01_284.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv0l4LMb5ykRmmfwGuzxFJmk65r0Q21dTBUowtidkKV7rxTrIoc0nFnIHGefBZ3nhTA_V7XzMcH275wwZO7MLuKjd2fLaSFPmYv3WUbQ8YDSuOsUgAc_ODiZJmu3b297Xwn1ItowbstwCd/s320/2013-03-13_19-19-01_284.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Common Thread is right on the main drag in downtown Saratoga Springs, NY</td></tr>
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It was hosted by Cascade Yarn, and let me tell you, it was a full house.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGxBHB1zvu2Du0zLoAlZB-SwtXKEnZlIMn47-YEsTBKFUzH-AHZ5gfPdH_szPvJdMGRDdkLpcG2j2lN54YRKPDNnf8sLZokWdu3ExfbR3bay65HoIEwrmggmAcbbHA6ATgl5Rj9zS9BR-W/s1600/2013-03-13_18-08-08_783.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGxBHB1zvu2Du0zLoAlZB-SwtXKEnZlIMn47-YEsTBKFUzH-AHZ5gfPdH_szPvJdMGRDdkLpcG2j2lN54YRKPDNnf8sLZokWdu3ExfbR3bay65HoIEwrmggmAcbbHA6ATgl5Rj9zS9BR-W/s320/2013-03-13_18-08-08_783.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can see that it was tight around the tasting table.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF6XI87fKICG_9LLljAKz9n1tR9baDT8KgH_SwFHrsEz8PzhrUyfxhvlsJzrrH4yyKg1x3Txc11TnSt73k2YviO75vJiCcxKani9_nR2-LHDjL9hHns36iwwyVe6vquRrppDP2UJhGKR-0/s1600/2013-03-13_19-17-46_632.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF6XI87fKICG_9LLljAKz9n1tR9baDT8KgH_SwFHrsEz8PzhrUyfxhvlsJzrrH4yyKg1x3Txc11TnSt73k2YviO75vJiCcxKani9_nR2-LHDjL9hHns36iwwyVe6vquRrppDP2UJhGKR-0/s640/2013-03-13_19-17-46_632.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The shop employees were kept busy with all the purchases and prize drawings</td></tr>
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The yarn and projects were beautiful, there were some great door prizes (I won yarn and a pattern), and there was wine and yummy snacks. They also had color cards there that they let you look over and place orders from. That was an especially nice feature. You weren't limited to the stock at hand.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrVBXsA-1wQgJFVNr24nhQXRJEmo3JlDm5r8mDO-O9-YLOnY0NEfzkCYUBWY8N_c5jYsWu8qyuuvzY-k1xHNs4yjCO0heUTYiIY0PP6Nhy9CWG8tau_fVumxVzDbnw12ip_MO__nWmdHgD/s1600/2013-03-13_18-08-23_453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrVBXsA-1wQgJFVNr24nhQXRJEmo3JlDm5r8mDO-O9-YLOnY0NEfzkCYUBWY8N_c5jYsWu8qyuuvzY-k1xHNs4yjCO0heUTYiIY0PP6Nhy9CWG8tau_fVumxVzDbnw12ip_MO__nWmdHgD/s320/2013-03-13_18-08-23_453.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was the tasting table. They had mini skeins wound up that you could do a little test knitting with.</td></tr>
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I did purchase some yarn, but honesty, it was almost too crowded to shop effectively, and some of the people there weren't always polite enough to move out of your way. Consideration is everything in a crowd.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12968573202733681308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-211146454719469520.post-66464838883320669742013-03-09T13:26:00.001-05:002013-03-09T13:27:10.346-05:00#Knitchat and Entrelac <br />
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8506/8535569130_921c52a7b7_m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8506/8535569130_921c52a7b7_m.jpg" width="200" /></a>Since my last post, I'm feeling much better and am back to knitting comfortably. Mom's cataract surgery went well. I finished my potato chip scarf, and it turned out beautifully. The picture really doesn't do it justice, but things have been crazy busy, and I haven't had a chance to set up for some good shots.<br />
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I started an entrelac cowl in preparation for doing a baby blanket. Entrelac is one of those<br />
things that I've wanted to try for a long time, but for some reason, it really intimidated me.<br />
I finally decided to be bold, and just do it, and discovered that plain entrelac is<br />
simple and makes great tv knitting. I can now knit backwards as fast as I can purl,<br />
and aside from left hand triangles and picking up stitches on the wrong side (for<br />
some reason they both freak me out, I don't know why), I love it, and truly enjoy<br />
it. This is a picture of the start of the baby blanket. Shown are the base triangles and the first row of right side rectangles.<br />
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My other new knitting related project is helping to revive #knitchat on Twitter. It died out a few months ago when it became to difficult for Natalie to host every week, so a few of us have banded together to take turns hosting. If you are interested in joining in #knitchat, head over to our all new <a href="http://knitchattweeter.blogspot.com/">#Knitchat-ter</a> blog for all the details. You can check out our recent #knitchat activity there, or you can go to Twitter.com and search #knitchat. I hosted my first chat about lace knitting, and despite being crazy nervous, it went pretty well. I need to figure out the best way to keep track of the chat, and post, and remember my hashtag, and... And I guess I loved it and had a great time!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12968573202733681308noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-211146454719469520.post-70541561136340583742013-02-27T09:49:00.001-05:002013-02-27T09:49:33.544-05:00WIP Wednesday: Therapy Knitting<p>So, here I am sitting at the hospital waiting for my mom to go in for her cataract surgery,  working on a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/potato-chip-scarf-3">potato chip scarf</a> I'm knitting it in Manos Maxima on size 10 needles. This is a super fast relaxing knit that I will probably do again with my handspun. It's very portable and doesn't require dragging a pattern around.</p>
<p>While I probably have ten projects on the needles right now, most of them involve lace, and beads, and small needles, and at times like this, that's not what I need. </p>
<p>My fibromyalgia, or whatever it is, is acting up, so I went with big needles and soft wool yarn. </p>
<p>After I get over my ouchies, I would like to get going on another baby bonnet,  and maybe an entrelac baby blanket. </p>
<p>Until next time, may your yarn be plentiful and your needles nimble. </p>
<div class='separator' style='clear: both; text-align: center;'> <a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiynl9Crnavws-k00xZ-I0sCMHd1DtGVumwXN81i0u6L667feLeGne5K2tN4F2_YmI3j4K51LCl18aSu_MWOPUU11ZX9FOPfPtqh3vNC1mPZNrr0dH7iRPFlfAp16KQ7wTMt9jjnMDdoy-N/s1600/2013-02-27_09-21-56_740.jpg' imageanchor='1' style='margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;'> <img border='0' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiynl9Crnavws-k00xZ-I0sCMHd1DtGVumwXN81i0u6L667feLeGne5K2tN4F2_YmI3j4K51LCl18aSu_MWOPUU11ZX9FOPfPtqh3vNC1mPZNrr0dH7iRPFlfAp16KQ7wTMt9jjnMDdoy-N/s640/2013-02-27_09-21-56_740.jpg' /> </a> </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12968573202733681308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-211146454719469520.post-73703886610238002132013-02-19T06:56:00.001-05:002013-02-19T06:56:52.280-05:00Baby Love<p>Well, I feel guilty that I haven't posted here for so long, but, truth be told, even though I've been knitting, I haven't finished much. Oh, maybe a couple of shawls, but most of my brain power and energy have been taken up by my new job and trying to get everyone where they need to go.</p>
<p>I've gone back to work after fourteen years as a stay at home mom, and, while I love it, it's taken some adjustment. Add to that multiple car problems and three people who have to get places, and I'm exhausted.</p>
<p>Anyway, I once again am going through a cycle where I have friends and family expecting, so I'm doing some baby knitting. First up is this sweet little bonnet knit for incoming niece Ireland. The pattern is A Bonnet for Baby Emma from the Fall 2012 issue of Jane Austen Knits. This one was really fun. I completed it quickly, it had beautiful lace, and it was well written. A winner all around. </p>
<div class='separator' style='clear: both; text-align: center;'> <a href='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC4zDvZ-GWHCnDwNtFpeBqU-Rz0U66Gt-C8C1rbNezhNmsK6oaHIork1Jz5W3D8QrQWeF61ilfxaP-RVhdSH5hnoH-B9d1eajTLLJURs5CUR9OSX8Kg8dcvska6qdQsLML2x4Plx6Ajdke/s1600/2013-02-18_08-08-02_293.jpg' imageanchor='1' style='margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;'> <img border='0' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC4zDvZ-GWHCnDwNtFpeBqU-Rz0U66Gt-C8C1rbNezhNmsK6oaHIork1Jz5W3D8QrQWeF61ilfxaP-RVhdSH5hnoH-B9d1eajTLLJURs5CUR9OSX8Kg8dcvska6qdQsLML2x4Plx6Ajdke/s640/2013-02-18_08-08-02_293.jpg' /> </a> </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12968573202733681308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-211146454719469520.post-83697566259554587552012-05-03T11:51:00.002-04:002012-05-03T11:51:40.351-04:00Knitting? Not So MuchOver the last week or so , there hasn't been very much crafting going on. I did finish a simple ruffled scarf for a gift, made out of a cotton/linen blend, but that's about it. My dairy goat came home in milk over the weekend, and my hands are so sore trying to get in the milking groove that I can barely hold a needle. <br />
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I'm currently working on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ez-100th-anniversary-pi-shawl-camping">http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ez-100th-anniversary-pi-shawl-camping</a> and it's a great knit once you get it off DPNs and on to a circular needle. It's even simple enough that I can take it on the road with me.<br />
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I did start a new blog to catalog my "farming" adventures. It's called <a href="http://goatsandgarden.blogspot.com/">Goats and Garden</a> and there you can see what I'm doing with my critters, garden, and kitchen. Right now, the feature player is Sno, the LaManche goat.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12968573202733681308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-211146454719469520.post-20248294523435952502012-03-30T16:41:00.001-04:002012-03-30T16:41:20.190-04:00FO: Knitting Like Crazy Mystery Shawl 2012<div><p>This was a Knitting Like Crazy Mystery Shawl, and can be found on Ravelry as the Belle Haven Shawl by Jen Lucas.</p>
<p>I knitted this in Alpaca Sox, which is a bit fuzzy for lace, perhaps, but still lets you see the stitch detail well enough.</p>
<p>As usual, Jen treated us all to a great knitting experience.  When it comes to mystery KALs, you are taking a leap of faith,  but Jen always makes it worth it.</p>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6fgVl4N0dCjcOpSxr7YPS64fTOI2uqax36ieRNtXQVKfVZUw-RMQg76_d5lp0WbPD_abq52MIXyYDQ4PWiDXbeDiBQINTsRDKEILykN3hJ2qvajnWQa9CfsRAs8aRjc-ousCYusaz4juT/' /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12968573202733681308noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-211146454719469520.post-55740315752773888062012-03-29T14:36:00.001-04:002012-03-29T14:36:04.618-04:00Happy Handpainting<div><p>As I'm sure you noticed, my design week project is temporarily on hold, primarily because I'm busy knitting the Knitting Like Crazy Mystery Shawl (I'm on row 4 of clue 4), a shawl for my aunt's rapidly approaching birthday, and a pair of socks. There's just not enough time right now.</p>
<p>All of this knitting didn't mean there wasn't enough time to dye more yarn. My sister is here for the day doing laundry, so we decided to try handpainting some yarn. I got out two skeins of Knit Picks Stroll Bare and mixed up some dye stock using Jacquard acid dyes. After applying the color, we set it in a microwave that I've set aside for this purpose (my sister found it Freecycle). We wrapped it in heavy plastic wrap, stuck it in a plastic sack, and ran it through 2 minutes at a time, with a 2 minute rest in between. The rainbow sock took 2 cycles,  and the Fuscia and blue took 3. After letting it cool, we rinsed them and hung them to dry.</p>
<p>Rest assured,  there is definitely more dyeing in our future. Next time I want to try graded coloring on a blank made up on my knitting machine. I can hardly wait!</p>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaIFyIeL9pv1w_zEF4g9dAbgZUY2xfq1fHVm5DIL6SC0UFFZ_BwN4-WCkG9B26lR1UH4kMMdxKhxfyNZzbsSm46ROC7UBHyTg7IrQVv6WoqXSiSJRKEffaUK1YH2M5Ljj79W-VU6wDeig4/' /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12968573202733681308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-211146454719469520.post-39225178091461098852012-03-14T12:44:00.001-04:002012-03-14T12:57:18.446-04:00Design Week Day 3<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4IBxcbSWm3GCArW8RmmnR2zWmbcOPPyQ-7z_KrB7TCCm1VWLnNO68JlmerbiKdpMFg0FMILdPMPQYhMysl6S2io-lsh_rfpdGNIeINXmB2QU0MHhFpy_DmpxsGI_qVzJ22lTUUW07rTy_/" />Today we reveal what yarn we have chosen for our design. I'm going to go a little farther with this post since I'm hijacking StitchinSandy's internet connection and I'm going to have to rely on posting from my phone for the rest of the week.<br />
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I myself have gone with one that is a standby for me, <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/yarns/Shadow_Lace_Yarn__D5420127.html">Knit Picks Shadow Lace</a> although any lace yarn will do for this project. Knit Picks is reliable and comparatively inexpensive, and I purchase their yarn on a regular basis. The color I am using is Snorkel, and it's something that I purchased some time ago. I bought several skeins when they discontinued this color, and am still using it up. Feel free to use whatever color you choose.<br />
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I have already swatched the lace pattern I want to use earlier, and so I have cast on. Still, I'm skeptical of that I've cast on enough stitches. I'm going to do a 2x2 ribbed brim, and then go into the lace.<br />
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I'm knitting the brim with US 1.5 needles, then going into the body of the hat with US 4. <br />
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I guess we'll see how this works out. There are certainly no guarantees that what I am envisioning will actually work out, and the thing I'm most concerned about is my stitch count. I think the design itself will work out, but I wouldn't be surprised if I have to rip out and add some more stitches.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12968573202733681308noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-211146454719469520.post-43172327491200098252012-03-13T14:35:00.000-04:002012-03-13T14:35:12.566-04:00Design Week - Days 1 and 2Due to some technical difficulties of the computer variety, I was unable to post yesterday about the design I have in the works, so today you get a two-for-one deal.
The idea I have in mind is for something I can use to keep my long hair under control, and am envisioning some type of cross between a snood and a slouchy hat. For those who don't know, a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Adolf_Friedrich_Erdmann_von_Menzel_cropped.JPG">snood </a>is something that has been used for hundreds of years to cover a woman's hair. You can see them at Renaissance Festivals and other historical reenactments, primarily, and they are also used by women who want to cover their hair for modesty purposes. I am planning on making something that is light and lacy, with shaping sort of like a slouchy hat that won't be too warm for spring weather, but has enough substance in it that I can tuck my hair up in it and keep it off my neck and from flying around in my face.
The snoody hat will be designed in the round, with some ribbing around the brim to help hold it, although I may want to stitch some hair clips in to hold it in place more securely. I'm thinking about lace weight yarn, and already have a stitch pattern in mind. It is a pretty, flowery open lace that should let air flow through, and maybe let the hair peek out a bit. It isn't difficult, and anybody who can handle a knitting in the round should be able to handle this project.
The next thing I need to do is choose my yarn, probably a lace weight, and do some swatching. Hopefully I'll be able to give you some pictures tomorrow.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12968573202733681308noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-211146454719469520.post-42169076991112446962012-03-07T09:52:00.000-05:002012-03-07T09:52:03.119-05:00Knit and Crochet Design Week March 12-17Stacey from <a href="http://www.freshstitches.com/wordpress/knit-and-crochet-design-week/">Fresh Stitches</a> is hosting a design week on her blog. It will take you right from the sketching phase up to putting your design on paper, giving you a great opportunity to fast track that great pattern that's been floating around in your head. I already have some thoughts on what I'm going to present. Run, don't walk, to Stacey's blog and sign up for the fun and exciting week she has planned for us!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12968573202733681308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-211146454719469520.post-67946328872342412412012-03-03T13:28:00.001-05:002012-03-03T13:28:02.298-05:00FO: Litha<div><p>I really needed a quick knitting win, so when I looked around for a project I could put to use, I decided to go for a hat. I needed one, and I was looking for something cute and slouchy. I decided to go with Litha by Allison Haas. It was in the same issue of KnitCircus as the spiral baby blanket,  so I didn't even have to buy another pattern.</p>
<p>This was a very nice, fast knit, with just enough action to keep you from getting bored.  I knit it up in Debbie Stoller Stitch Nation Bamboo Ewe, in Periwinkle. I picked up two skeins just in case, but ended up only using one with about four yards to spare. That leaves a skein for some mitts.</p>
<p>This hat actually took longer to dry when I blocked it than it did to knit. I also spent a ridiculous amount of time straightening it out and repinning it because the cats kept tearing across it and wrinkling it up.</p>
<p>If you are looking for a beautiful hat that will span the seasons, Litha is the one for you.</p>
<p>Next project up: Knitting Like Crazy Mystery Shawl in Alpaca Sox. I am also working on writing and finishing up knitting an original sock pattern. </p>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjspqIHCHhWuhimagxr39Ejda3YrO3rXHD6Ouj_67dleU4Ra91XDCbOlGVR1WJDyUrq27-CPDYRhimz_F-U6cwfgFBoryKkDNaGk8unLmdZqlgCN4TChpthHdXEAsDTPnHMaeb1WHRnyQA3/' /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12968573202733681308noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-211146454719469520.post-4907728143981933602012-03-01T11:42:00.001-05:002012-03-01T11:42:22.749-05:00FO: Spiral Star Baby Blanket<div><p>Months ago, I knit my friend a Spiral Star Baby Blanket from last summer's KnitCircus. It was a simple pattern,  easy to work on in front of the TV, and I finished with plenty of time to spare. I got my ends woven in, put it in the washer on the gentle cycle ( it is a baby blanket, so it must withstand the washing machine) , pulled it out to block it, and almost stroked out on the spot.</p>
<p>One of the ends close to the yarnovers had pulled out, and left a big gap. I tried to tighten it up and weave it back in, but it looked awful.  I asked around, but nobody had any good suggestions. So it just sat there.</p>
<p>Meanwhile,  my friend has a beautiful baby boy, and insists she wants this blanket regardless of the ugly spot. I fixed it as well as I could, but it does still look a bit nasty.  So, I still needed to block this thing, so I handwash it this time,  just spin the thing out in the washer, and as I'm pinning it out, discover that ALL my ends are loosening up. I'm totally disgusted. </p>
<p>This problem made it glaringly obvious that I need to work on my finishing techniques.  I've gotten lax by knitting things that will never see the inside of a washer. The thing that really kills me is that I knew it would go in a washer and put extra effort into my weaving in, and it still fell apart. </p>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWtB3AamIOP-SmDFTY-qC7eljhBYdK5YH_ZIpCICkHsPRR_uTi2QvPsTCus2cdFq6OBU3BHauT__8cZv2btWUSBkIEp09nun1WEJ7jOjgiz0Sw7zv6ysmiUib_IBcIb37Jm3NX8Xaw_7AD/' /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12968573202733681308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-211146454719469520.post-53562386360504373762012-02-21T07:56:00.001-05:002012-02-21T07:56:57.926-05:00FO: Diantha<div><p>My most recent completed knitting project is Diantha, which was offered by SusannaIC as a KAL.</p>
<p>This shawl is crescent shaped,  knit from the bottom edge up, and incorporates beads, Nupps, and short rows. As a bonus, it has directions for three different sizes, ans covers lace through worsted weight yarn.</p>
<p>The knitting experience doesn't disappoint, providing you with enough of a challenge to engage but not overwhelm.</p>
<p>I knitted mine in At Knits End Sparkle Ewe lace, which produced a lovely,  slightly drapey fabric with an elegant shimmer.  </p>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEVN-VEFSJuL5_LfnMNcuq2e6ib6IDWDSJDdkhCAoiJfvqtK1yhRt65K-zKHdepU6EPJ7b-9RVAml1Lr8k5aAZK1Mjz_KywPhAWzp49TSJFlfspBXMDncje2RYJYCdtwNBedVZUQqdnWqM/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgviGmtbNjdWkB43iXHvTFRgfXXNnlhmWHVO6GhFlhjuw7oVBhyuH_gdbus9kHra1OZOSlC-LlyBzDPqg8bTlRNkj4kRDXsyRvtqWd7BOYeh7__pe5dVGvUcVk7OmEYnarte22QIIR_nYqT/' /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12968573202733681308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-211146454719469520.post-6320512207111089952012-02-13T06:03:00.001-05:002012-02-13T06:07:55.082-05:00It's a Sock and Shawl Knitting World<div><p>Thanks to my usual slacker tendencies when it comes to posting,  I have failed to keep you updated on my knitting life. Mostly it's been socks and shawls ( yes, my usual). </p>
<p>Over the last few weeks, I'd say the most interesting socks I've finished are the Achilles Heal socks from <a href="http://www.Knitty.com">Knitty</a>. The heel on this one was unique and a lot of fun to knit once you got your stitches organized.  FYI, I worked over 4 DPNs and had the needles meet where markers were called for, and used a marker to show the start of the round and the end of the heel. Right off the needles, I didn't like the way the instep and heel sat, but after washing and blocking,  it was fine. This is a great project for handpainted yarn. And as a bonus, they knitted up fast.</p>
<p>On my needles now, I am finishing up the SusannaIC January Mystery Shawl, which is looking fabulous.  I am planning on finishing that up today. For socks, I am working on a pair of my own design that is a combination of ribbing and lace.</p>
<p>On a more personal note, I haven't been getting as much knitting done as I'd like due to chronic migraines over the last month. I've started seeing a chiropractor and am getting some real relief,  so I will hopefully be more productive. </p>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWeBT2Qy1GAuXvhSjvW0frwNtl0acfq7627uzO0uNqgwm6cteZG1WZgSwh-jtRUvWdzDvJ9Ehmq4q-ilYnox-zZFmZiyQ7GFa3eW0gvUvYoJqur6S23ZhofYd6JLdIAlLAuakV4JMrYCXM/' /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12968573202733681308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-211146454719469520.post-62177100008146271532011-11-09T13:27:00.001-05:002011-11-09T13:27:46.064-05:00Wordless Wednesday<div><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUTljNra92_frCQO3d3M2esBHuPvS2-mAQCi5S0qSrTqh9QMXsND-CalNBZt9Uxj_9jn9hqFdPAoF3fvsQLs-CJPW4u3OtiPldYydpR6SqUa1Gj7z3dP08z8oyNQYswYJERvYykwtvgOiP/' /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12968573202733681308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-211146454719469520.post-14854606308294374932011-11-03T14:01:00.001-04:002011-11-03T14:01:19.050-04:00Passing It On<div><p>While this might not be the world's best picture, it is still representative of something vitally important to me, namely, the passing on of the major love of my life (behind my family,  of course) . Knitting is a major player for me. It keeps me sane, happy, and occupied in a productive manner.</p>
<p>Abby is eight now, and we have tried teaching her to knit and crochet several times, with no success.  Today she was home sick and came with my sister to do laundry, and out of the blue,  asked to try again, and this time it worked. Aside from some tension issues, she is doing great. I couldn't be prouder!  Even my four year old nephew knit a row with assistance.</p>
<p>This is just one of those great days that will stick with you forever. </p>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0KllFWkznKPYuSJofYa_z0HMtPz9J1tg_j5kk1MWFTwrpm3mIdYePvpYC5wWXjEiBnfKk8SlnZ6zWRarRWsaCD8Ih-i8vhl9mHwCK7wQQ1XnHyuGrjwMh54dnP2RDqsnllGJuWtIb3v63/' /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12968573202733681308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-211146454719469520.post-87602448668157812262011-11-02T17:04:00.000-04:002011-11-02T17:30:50.588-04:00Ewe Want LuxuryI had the good fortune to purchase a skein of At Knit's End 100% cashmere yarn some time ago, and, not wanting to let any of this yarn go unused, decided to design a scarf pattern to use up every precious inch. The yarn I used is lace weight, but the scarf can be adapted to any size. It is a lovely little lacy knit, perfect for holiday gift giving, or for your own personal use (my favorite option).<br />
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The pattern linked here doesn't have a finished object picture yet, but one will be coming in the near future. Enjoy!
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/dls/fiber-fever/81617?filename=ewe_want_luxury.pdf">download now</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12968573202733681308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-211146454719469520.post-1021226845126591632011-11-02T12:56:00.001-04:002011-11-02T12:56:32.160-04:00Wordless Wednesday<div><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDqCuNLw2QCiECLFiw2BGh3kmj0r7nX_ZBtUSLzBVHG9MD91Uu3pkz7sNIstHfO88ihygYXQCEPnDko8DAMxu1r1RTl4AznOw_KQ1VFnDPVsYVcdJgi4ADMCx1MdfYq4245s76jq01NpfF/' /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12968573202733681308noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-211146454719469520.post-51977131622497748102011-07-27T14:23:00.001-04:002011-09-12T18:05:02.818-04:00Fountain of Love Cowl<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am happy to announce that I have a cowl pattern on Ravelry, the Fountain of Love Cowl. You can get the chart by downloading the pdf. Enjoy!<br />
 <br />
<b>Fountain of Love Cowl</b><br />
by Kim Degener<br />
<br />
This is a simple but elegant cowl, designed with alot of texture. The lace pattern is easily memorized, and provides a quick and enjoyable knit.<br />
Photo credit [model-Abby Rose Degener/photographer-Sandra Degener] <br />
<br />
SIZE <br />
This is a standard one size fits all<br />
MATERIALS <br />
Knit Picks Stroll [75%superwash Merino Wool, 25% Nylon; 231yd/m per 50g skein]; color: Majestic; 1 skein<br />
or fingering weight yarn of your choice<br />
<br />
1 set(s) US #4 24" in circular needles<br />
<br />
<br />
notions required <br />
Crochet hook for picking up stitches<br />
1 stitch marker for marking beginning of round, 3 stitch markers if you want to mark the end of the repeat <br />
<br />
GAUGE <br />
The gauge for this isn't very important. As long as you use a stretchy cast on and bind off, this will fit most people.<br />
 <br />
PATTERN NOTES <br />
<br />
<br />
PATTERN <br />
CO 128 stitches using stretchy cast on of your choice (simple cast on shown here).<br />
Knit in stockinette for 3 rows<br />
Begin chart. Each line will be knitted four times in the course of a round.<br />
Repeat chart four times or until you reach your desired length. Knit 2 more rounds and bind off using a stretchy bind off of your choice. The bind off here consists of: knit 2 stitches, pass both stitches back to the left needle, and knit together through the back loop. Knit 1 stitch, pass this stitch and the previous stitch back to the left needle, and knit through the back loop. Continue in this manner until all stitches are bound off.<br />
<br />
<br />
Chart: Fountain of Love lace<br />
Round 1: k2, yo, k3, yo, ssk, k3, ssk, yo, k2tog, yo, sk2p, yo, k1, ssk, yo, k2tog, k3, k2tog, yo, k3, yo, k2<br />
Round 2: k all stitches<br />
Round 3: k3, yo, k2, yo, ssk, k4, ssk, yo, k2tog, k2, ssk, yo, k2tog, k4, k2tog, yo, k2, yo, k3<br />
Round 4: k all stitches<br />
Round 5: k4, yo, ssk, yo, k6, ssk, yo, k2tog, ssk, yo, k2tog, k6, yo, k2tog, yo, k4<br />
Round 6: k all stitches<br />
Round 7: k1, yo, k2, ssk, yo, ssk, yo, k6, ssk, k2, k2tog, k6, yo, k2tog, yo, k2tog, k2, yo, k1<br />
Round 8: k all stitches<br />
Round 9: k2, yo, k3, yo, ssk, k3, ssk, yo, k2tog, yo, sk2p, yo, k1, ssk, yo, k2tog, k3, k2tog, yo, k3, yo, k2<br />
Round 10: k all stitches<br />
Round 11: k3, yo, k2, yo, ssk, k4, ssk, yo, k2tog, k2, ssk, yo, k2tog, k4, k2tog, yo, k2, yo, k3<br />
Round 12: k all stitches<br />
Round 13: k4, yo, ssk, yo, k6, ssk, yo, k2tog, ssk, yo, k2tog, k6, yo, k2tog, yo, k4<br />
Round 14: k all stitches<br />
Round 15: k1, yo, k2, ssk, yo, ssk, yo, k6, ssk, k2, k2tog, k6, yo, k2tog, yo, k2tog, k2, yo, k1<br />
Round 16: k all stitches<br />
<br />
<br />
FINISHING <br />
After binding off, weave in all loose ends. Soak cowl in cool water for 20 minutes, and roll in towel to remove excess water. Lay flat to dry, stretching cowl length wise, versus side to side, to preserve texture.<br />
<br />
You can buy this pattern in PDF format, with the accompanying chart, from my Ravelry Store, for $3.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/purchase/fiber-fever/72082"><img src="http://www.ravelry.com/images/shopping/buy-now.gif" border="0"/></a>
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<br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/badges/redirect?p=fountain-of-love-cowl"><img src="http://api.ravelry.com/badges/projects?p=fountain-of-love-cowl&t=.gif" style="border: none;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12968573202733681308noreply@blogger.com1