Dish Rag Tag

Now that I am well into my Sockapalooza pal's second sock, I was intrigued today by an invitation to join "Dishrag Tag," an effort being started by Emily at the Yarn Miracle blog. I have a whole cone of Peaches and Creme that you've heard about in past posts, and I've been wanting to do some dishcloths/facecloths, particularly after reading Mason-Dixon Knitting recently. This seems like a fun summer activity that won't require too big of a time commitment. Check it out!

Dish Rag Tag

Now that I am well into my Sockapalooza pal's second sock, I was intrigued today by an invitation to join "Dishrag Tag," an effort being started by Emily at the Yarn Miracle blog. I have a whole cone of Peaches and Creme that you've heard about in past posts, and I've been wanting to do some dishcloths/facecloths, particularly after reading Mason-Dixon Knitting recently. This seems like a fun summer activity that won't require too big of a time commitment. Check it out!

Sockapalooza: Halfway There

While watching the final episode of The Sopranos last night, I finished the first of my Hederas. I hope it is the right size for my pal, but it does match the measurements she submitted. Now I've started Sock #2 and hope that I will have enough yarn, but I can always order more, right? My two goals at the moment are to finish the sock in time (before my vacation the last week in July, so I can mail it on time), and to finish with enough yarn.

Today was a train commuting day for a business meeting, so I took my Midwest Moonlight Scarf from Scarf Style, on which little progress had been made. Although I love this pattern, it does involve a bit of concentration and might not be the best choice for working on while riding the rails, but I also found that I could fudge a stitch here and there and it still looks OK. Shhh...don't tell!

Sockapalooza: Halfway There

While watching the final episode of The Sopranos last night, I finished the first of my Hederas. I hope it is the right size for my pal, but it does match the measurements she submitted. Now I've started Sock #2 and hope that I will have enough yarn, but I can always order more, right? My two goals at the moment are to finish the sock in time (before my vacation the last week in July, so I can mail it on time), and to finish with enough yarn.

Today was a train commuting day for a business meeting, so I took my Midwest Moonlight Scarf from Scarf Style, on which little progress had been made. Although I love this pattern, it does involve a bit of concentration and might not be the best choice for working on while riding the rails, but I also found that I could fudge a stitch here and there and it still looks OK. Shhh...don't tell!

I Won a Contest!

I have been entering a bunch of contests on other blogs and Podcasts for some time now--I think it's a great way to be an interactive member of the blogger/Podcaster community.

One of the Podcasts I've been enjoying lately is SSK, featuring Shannon and Stephanie. I love the fact that they met online and are in two different parts of the country, yet knitting has brought them together, and then they've brought the rest of us into their conversation. Anyway, they had a drawing of entries on favorite vacation knitting. I put in an entry about knitting socks on vacation, and I WON! Don't know what I'll get yet, but I'm sure it will be great. Who doesn't love getting a surprise package in the mail! Go listen to the Podcast, it's very entertaining. Thanks again, Shannon and Stephanie!

The picture I had sent in is the very beginning of my Hederas for my Sockapalooza pal. Since I sent my entry to SSK, I've made some nice progress on Hedera #1, which I think looks lovely--about 2 more inches to go:


I may be in danger of running out of yarn, but the Socks that Rock Mustang Sally is still available, so I could always buy another skein--that way, I'd be able to use the rest for a pair of socks for me! The wine color, slightly variegated colorway is just gorgeous, and the Hedera pattern is definitely one I'd do again.

I Won a Contest!

I have been entering a bunch of contests on other blogs and Podcasts for some time now--I think it's a great way to be an interactive member of the blogger/Podcaster community.

One of the Podcasts I've been enjoying lately is SSK, featuring Shannon and Stephanie. I love the fact that they met online and are in two different parts of the country, yet knitting has brought them together, and then they've brought the rest of us into their conversation. Anyway, they had a drawing of entries on favorite vacation knitting. I put in an entry about knitting socks on vacation, and I WON! Don't know what I'll get yet, but I'm sure it will be great. Who doesn't love getting a surprise package in the mail! Go listen to the Podcast, it's very entertaining. Thanks again, Shannon and Stephanie!

The picture I had sent in is the very beginning of my Hederas for my Sockapalooza pal. Since I sent my entry to SSK, I've made some nice progress on Hedera #1, which I think looks lovely--about 2 more inches to go:


I may be in danger of running out of yarn, but the Socks that Rock Mustang Sally is still available, so I could always buy another skein--that way, I'd be able to use the rest for a pair of socks for me! The wine color, slightly variegated colorway is just gorgeous, and the Hedera pattern is definitely one I'd do again.

Addicted to Ravelry

I am one of the lucky ones who was issued an early invitation to Ravelry, the new social networking-type site for knitters who want to share yarn and pattern ideas, photos and feedback with other knitters, including several of my favorite Podcasters! Jessica and Casey have done a fabulous job with this site, and I've already added several Ravelry "friends" with whom I've exchanged pattern advice. Just as I have been blown away by the ever-increasing number of knitting blogs, Podcasts and general online resources, so have I been impressed with the wonderful ways in which Ravelry is bringing our widely dispersed community together. I'm looking forward to the full-blown Ravelry after what seems to me like a very successful beta-testing period. I've been thrilled to be a part of it!

I am also about half way up the body of my BonBon Tank, and the yarn is behaving so much better after I started alternating skeins to prevent pooling. Looking at the photo, there is still some pooling, but the big blobs of pink are gone. I'm already contemplating my next project after this is done.

The Hederas for my Sockapalooza pal are also coming along, although I feel a bit behind schedule now that it's June and I'm still on the leg of Sock #1. I better spend more time working on those, and less on...Ravelry.

Addicted to Ravelry

I am one of the lucky ones who was issued an early invitation to Ravelry, the new social networking-type site for knitters who want to share yarn and pattern ideas, photos and feedback with other knitters, including several of my favorite Podcasters! Jessica and Casey have done a fabulous job with this site, and I've already added several Ravelry "friends" with whom I've exchanged pattern advice. Just as I have been blown away by the ever-increasing number of knitting blogs, Podcasts and general online resources, so have I been impressed with the wonderful ways in which Ravelry is bringing our widely dispersed community together. I'm looking forward to the full-blown Ravelry after what seems to me like a very successful beta-testing period. I've been thrilled to be a part of it!

I am also about half way up the body of my BonBon Tank, and the yarn is behaving so much better after I started alternating skeins to prevent pooling. Looking at the photo, there is still some pooling, but the big blobs of pink are gone. I'm already contemplating my next project after this is done.

The Hederas for my Sockapalooza pal are also coming along, although I feel a bit behind schedule now that it's June and I'm still on the leg of Sock #1. I better spend more time working on those, and less on...Ravelry.

Summer Goals

With the unofficial start of the summer season coming tomorrow (a child of the beach, that means Memorial Day weekend), I'm heading down to the shore with my summer knitting goals on my mind. Courtesy of Ali and her Summer Knitting Goals contest, here are my summer goals:

1. Finish my Sockapalooza socks before my trip at the end of July
2. Start at least one more pair of socks, preferably two, to make a dent in my sock yarn stash
3. Finish my BonBon tank
4. Decide what to make with my Noro Silk Garden and start it
5. Start my Manos Afghan--at least one square complete

I think those are reasonable goals, although some of these projects are kind of hot for outdoor knitting. Why don't you enter the contest at Ali's blog? Just go to her site and read the directions. Don't forget: when you comment and sign up for the contest, tell Ali that I pointed you to her and I'll get an extra entry! Good luck to all of us!

Summer Goals

With the unofficial start of the summer season coming tomorrow (a child of the beach, that means Memorial Day weekend), I'm heading down to the shore with my summer knitting goals on my mind. Courtesy of Ali and her Summer Knitting Goals contest, here are my summer goals:

1. Finish my Sockapalooza socks before my trip at the end of July
2. Start at least one more pair of socks, preferably two, to make a dent in my sock yarn stash
3. Finish my BonBon tank
4. Decide what to make with my Noro Silk Garden and start it
5. Start my Manos Afghan--at least one square complete

I think those are reasonable goals, although some of these projects are kind of hot for outdoor knitting. Why don't you enter the contest at Ali's blog? Just go to her site and read the directions. Don't forget: when you comment and sign up for the contest, tell Ali that I pointed you to her and I'll get an extra entry! Good luck to all of us!

A Proud Frogger!

I was going along smoothly on my BonBon tank, using my Great Adirondack Silk Noir in the Chagall colorway, when I noticed some big blobs of pink pooling. I kept going, but it bothered me as the blobs (one on the front, one on the back as I am knitting in the round) kept getting bigger. Today I surfed around a bit and saw lots of advice about alternating balls of yarn with handpainted variegated yarn. I kept wondering if I should just keep the pooling--you know, it gives that hand-knit character, blah, blah, blah. I came home and took another look and decided I just couldn't live with it, so I bit the bullet and frogged about 20 rows, tangling a little bit of the frogged yarn beyond saving in the process. Then I started alternating balls, and after about 4 rows done, it looks soooo much better. I forgot to take a "before" picture, but here's what it looks like now:

It was just bothering me too much to go on! The plus was that I wasn't sure how the fit was going to be, and while I had it off the needles, I tried it on and I think it will fit fine. I learned a good lesson, and now I'll know about this trick for the future.
It's funny--the pooling never bothers me on socks, but with a garment like a close-fitting tank top, it could look awful.
This is somewhat of a cursed project--this is the second time I've frogged it--but I'm still glad I strove for perfection. Back to knitting.

A Proud Frogger!

I was going along smoothly on my BonBon tank, using my Great Adirondack Silk Noir in the Chagall colorway, when I noticed some big blobs of pink pooling. I kept going, but it bothered me as the blobs (one on the front, one on the back as I am knitting in the round) kept getting bigger. Today I surfed around a bit and saw lots of advice about alternating balls of yarn with handpainted variegated yarn. I kept wondering if I should just keep the pooling--you know, it gives that hand-knit character, blah, blah, blah. I came home and took another look and decided I just couldn't live with it, so I bit the bullet and frogged about 20 rows, tangling a little bit of the frogged yarn beyond saving in the process. Then I started alternating balls, and after about 4 rows done, it looks soooo much better. I forgot to take a "before" picture, but here's what it looks like now:

It was just bothering me too much to go on! The plus was that I wasn't sure how the fit was going to be, and while I had it off the needles, I tried it on and I think it will fit fine. I learned a good lesson, and now I'll know about this trick for the future.
It's funny--the pooling never bothers me on socks, but with a garment like a close-fitting tank top, it could look awful.
This is somewhat of a cursed project--this is the second time I've frogged it--but I'm still glad I strove for perfection. Back to knitting.

Worth the Wait

Today, my One-Piece Lace Pullover (from Spring 2006 Interweave Knits) returned from its journey to my contracted finisher. There had been a bit of a mix-up on the finishing instructions, but the sweater is now back to me and is one of my favorites among sweaters I've made. Take a look:


I also received my "groovy" new DPN protectors from Sherry's Etsy Shop, 3 Owls Knitting. They are compact and functional, as well as beautiful with pretty crystal and polymer clay beads in a lovely deep green. Sherry provided really quick service. These will be great, especially for airplane travel, as they are just beads and plastic, no metal like the bulkier DPN holder I was using before.
They are on my just-started Hederas now:

Back to knitting...have a great weekend, everyone.

Worth the Wait

Today, my One-Piece Lace Pullover (from Spring 2006 Interweave Knits) returned from its journey to my contracted finisher. There had been a bit of a mix-up on the finishing instructions, but the sweater is now back to me and is one of my favorites among sweaters I've made. Take a look:


I also received my "groovy" new DPN protectors from Sherry's Etsy Shop, 3 Owls Knitting. They are compact and functional, as well as beautiful with pretty crystal and polymer clay beads in a lovely deep green. Sherry provided really quick service. These will be great, especially for airplane travel, as they are just beads and plastic, no metal like the bulkier DPN holder I was using before.
They are on my just-started Hederas now:

Back to knitting...have a great weekend, everyone.

Socks Do Rock

I finished the Pittsburgh Steelers Socks. They look great and my little fan loves them.

Now it is on to my Sockapalooza socks--I want to make sure I finish them in plenty of time. I have decided on Knitty's Hedera, a pattern by the awesome Cookie A. I had started a pair last year and felt that the Socks that Rock colorway I was using was too busy. I am going to use Socks That Rock again, in the Mustang Sally colorway from last year's Sock Club. It is mostly reds--gorgeous, deep hues--and I think these socks will look great in this colorway.
So now, with my tank ready to be re-started, I'm back up to three projects at once. But they're all great, and I'm happy.

Socks Do Rock

I finished the Pittsburgh Steelers Socks. They look great and my little fan loves them.

Now it is on to my Sockapalooza socks--I want to make sure I finish them in plenty of time. I have decided on Knitty's Hedera, a pattern by the awesome Cookie A. I had started a pair last year and felt that the Socks that Rock colorway I was using was too busy. I am going to use Socks That Rock again, in the Mustang Sally colorway from last year's Sock Club. It is mostly reds--gorgeous, deep hues--and I think these socks will look great in this colorway.
So now, with my tank ready to be re-started, I'm back up to three projects at once. But they're all great, and I'm happy.

Finished My Scarf

While awaiting my KnitPicks circulars so that I can re-start my tank top, I finished my One-Skein Scarf from One-Skein Wonders, which has been my #3 project and has taken about 3 months to finish. It came out nicely, and I will donate it to a charity, either the World War II Museum's Knitting Project for Veterans that I'd heard about awhile back, or if they have what they need, I'll find another. What's good about this scarf is that it's a style and color suitable for a man, which I know a lot of the charities are seeking.
Now I will probably start a scraf from Scarf Style out of the five balls of KnitPicks Merino Style , in the Moss Colorway, that I bought two years ago!

Finished My Scarf

While awaiting my KnitPicks circulars so that I can re-start my tank top, I finished my One-Skein Scarf from One-Skein Wonders, which has been my #3 project and has taken about 3 months to finish. It came out nicely, and I will donate it to a charity, either the World War II Museum's Knitting Project for Veterans that I'd heard about awhile back, or if they have what they need, I'll find another. What's good about this scarf is that it's a style and color suitable for a man, which I know a lot of the charities are seeking.
Now I will probably start a scraf from Scarf Style out of the five balls of KnitPicks Merino Style , in the Moss Colorway, that I bought two years ago!

One Step Forward, One Step Back

I am cruising along on my Pittsburgh Steelers socks for my son. It is also nice to have such an enthusiastic recipient! He readily tries on the socks at various stages (now that Sock #1 is done, we won't have to take as many measurements), and can't wait to wear them to a football game in the fall.

Sock #2 should be finished shortly, and then I will move on to my Sockapalooza sock.

Speaking of Sockapalooza, I have left a comment on my sock pal's blog, but haven't heard yet from the person who has me. I'm sure I will, in due time.

As for my BonBon tank, it is now this:

I had thought I had gotten gauge, but as I knit in the round, even though the stitches were bunched up on the circular needle, it looked kind of big after about 3 inches were done. I took the stitches off the needle and put them on a piece of yarn, and WOW--this thing was at least 4 inches too wide! For a tank that is supposed to be close-fitting, I don't think this will do. I carefully knit another swatch on size 3 (rather than size 4) needles, and I think that will work best, AND I will go down a size. Watch it be too small now! Anyway, as I didn't have a nice set of #3 circs in my collection, I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to order one from KnitPicks as a test to see if I like their circulars--if I do, I will probably treat myself to the Options set. Everyone seems to love them so much! Once the #3's arrive, I will swatch again just to be sure, and then begin the tank again. In the meantime, I will get a lot done on the sock and the scarf that's been languishing for awhile.

One Step Forward, One Step Back

I am cruising along on my Pittsburgh Steelers socks for my son. It is also nice to have such an enthusiastic recipient! He readily tries on the socks at various stages (now that Sock #1 is done, we won't have to take as many measurements), and can't wait to wear them to a football game in the fall.

Sock #2 should be finished shortly, and then I will move on to my Sockapalooza sock.

Speaking of Sockapalooza, I have left a comment on my sock pal's blog, but haven't heard yet from the person who has me. I'm sure I will, in due time.

As for my BonBon tank, it is now this:

I had thought I had gotten gauge, but as I knit in the round, even though the stitches were bunched up on the circular needle, it looked kind of big after about 3 inches were done. I took the stitches off the needle and put them on a piece of yarn, and WOW--this thing was at least 4 inches too wide! For a tank that is supposed to be close-fitting, I don't think this will do. I carefully knit another swatch on size 3 (rather than size 4) needles, and I think that will work best, AND I will go down a size. Watch it be too small now! Anyway, as I didn't have a nice set of #3 circs in my collection, I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to order one from KnitPicks as a test to see if I like their circulars--if I do, I will probably treat myself to the Options set. Everyone seems to love them so much! Once the #3's arrive, I will swatch again just to be sure, and then begin the tank again. In the meantime, I will get a lot done on the sock and the scarf that's been languishing for awhile.

A Great Source of Knitting Help

I just finished reading through When Bad Things Happen to Good Knitters, a great new book by Marion Edmonds & Ahza Moore, who "together have more than 100 years of knitting experience between them." Their funny, non-threatening and extremely helpful approach to knitting problems have produced a book that is a welcome addition to the library of all knitters, from beginners to experts.

The book is divided into four sections:
"Emergency Prevention" (how to prevent problems from happening in the first place by developing good habits, such as the right way to make a gauge swatch and the items to include in your knitting bag);

"The Secret Language of Knitting Patterns," which had a very comprehensive and user-friendly section on how to alter patterns for different sizes and gauges--something I definitely want to try. At 5'2", I often find that my sweaters, and especially sleeves, are too long because I hesitate to deviate from the written pattern. This book has made me feel confident enough to try some alterations. After all, isn't that what makes a hand-knit special in the first place?

"Good Knitting Gone Wrong," a section that helps fix mistakes without too much pain. I've already used this section to help me through ripping out several rows of my lace pullover last month.

And finally, "Don't Let Finishing Finish You Off." As someone who is not fond of finishing, I found that this section made it look easy.

The book has nice, clear illustrations and as I mentioned, it's funny. I loved their commentary on grafting, for example (maybe because for some reason, this is something that I've always been good at): "It's a great status symbol in the knitting world. When you know how to graft, you can boast about it (in an offhand, nonchalant sort of way) and watch nongrafters' eyes widen in admiration." That just made me chuckle!

I highly recommend this slim volume as a useful, accessible addition to your knitting bag!

In other news, I got my Sockapalooza pal information yesterday and I've been obsessing over which socks to make for her! I have several options in terms of patterns, and two beautiful yarns from my sock yarn stash that would both be perfect. I just have to decide which one I want to part with! Once I finish up my son's Pittsburgh Steelers socks (almost done with Sock #1), I will get cracking on the Sockapalooza project. It seems like a great group!

A Great Source of Knitting Help

I just finished reading through When Bad Things Happen to Good Knitters, a great new book by Marion Edmonds & Ahza Moore, who "together have more than 100 years of knitting experience between them." Their funny, non-threatening and extremely helpful approach to knitting problems have produced a book that is a welcome addition to the library of all knitters, from beginners to experts.

The book is divided into four sections:
"Emergency Prevention" (how to prevent problems from happening in the first place by developing good habits, such as the right way to make a gauge swatch and the items to include in your knitting bag);

"The Secret Language of Knitting Patterns," which had a very comprehensive and user-friendly section on how to alter patterns for different sizes and gauges--something I definitely want to try. At 5'2", I often find that my sweaters, and especially sleeves, are too long because I hesitate to deviate from the written pattern. This book has made me feel confident enough to try some alterations. After all, isn't that what makes a hand-knit special in the first place?

"Good Knitting Gone Wrong," a section that helps fix mistakes without too much pain. I've already used this section to help me through ripping out several rows of my lace pullover last month.

And finally, "Don't Let Finishing Finish You Off." As someone who is not fond of finishing, I found that this section made it look easy.

The book has nice, clear illustrations and as I mentioned, it's funny. I loved their commentary on grafting, for example (maybe because for some reason, this is something that I've always been good at): "It's a great status symbol in the knitting world. When you know how to graft, you can boast about it (in an offhand, nonchalant sort of way) and watch nongrafters' eyes widen in admiration." That just made me chuckle!

I highly recommend this slim volume as a useful, accessible addition to your knitting bag!

In other news, I got my Sockapalooza pal information yesterday and I've been obsessing over which socks to make for her! I have several options in terms of patterns, and two beautiful yarns from my sock yarn stash that would both be perfect. I just have to decide which one I want to part with! Once I finish up my son's Pittsburgh Steelers socks (almost done with Sock #1), I will get cracking on the Sockapalooza project. It seems like a great group!

Finally Decided!

I decided to nix the idea of doing a shawl with the Great Adirondack Silk Noir. It was very difficult to wind--I think one of my next knitting-related purchases should be a new swift and ball winder, as mine are probably about 22 years old and the plastic swift is really getting bent out of shape. I deserve something new!

So when I swatched the Silk Noir on size 6 needles, I didn't like the openness of the stitches, and didn't like the look of it in Garter Stitch, which makes up a big part of the Fiber Trends Landscape Shawl.

I've decided that I really don't want a shawl, and will make Lily Chin's BonBon tank top from the Summer 2006 issue of Knitter's Magazine. It is a simple, stockinette, close-fitting tank with seed stitch straps and trim, knit in one piece in the round. I think I'll get a lot more wear out of it, as I tend to wear my knitted tanks out a lot on summer evenings. Here's a pic of the pattern:

I will probably have about 200 yards left, and plan to make this cool "Dreamswatch Head Wrap," from Knit & Tonic's blog, with the rest. I've been eyeing this pattern for awhile, and I should have just the right amount of this yarn left to make it.

So far, I'm still on the 1-inch seed stitch bottom border of the tank. I'm loving the way it looks--I think I made the right decision. I'll keep you posted.

Finally Decided!

I decided to nix the idea of doing a shawl with the Great Adirondack Silk Noir. It was very difficult to wind--I think one of my next knitting-related purchases should be a new swift and ball winder, as mine are probably about 22 years old and the plastic swift is really getting bent out of shape. I deserve something new!

So when I swatched the Silk Noir on size 6 needles, I didn't like the openness of the stitches, and didn't like the look of it in Garter Stitch, which makes up a big part of the Fiber Trends Landscape Shawl.

I've decided that I really don't want a shawl, and will make Lily Chin's BonBon tank top from the Summer 2006 issue of Knitter's Magazine. It is a simple, stockinette, close-fitting tank with seed stitch straps and trim, knit in one piece in the round. I think I'll get a lot more wear out of it, as I tend to wear my knitted tanks out a lot on summer evenings. Here's a pic of the pattern:

I will probably have about 200 yards left, and plan to make this cool "Dreamswatch Head Wrap," from Knit & Tonic's blog, with the rest. I've been eyeing this pattern for awhile, and I should have just the right amount of this yarn left to make it.

So far, I'm still on the 1-inch seed stitch bottom border of the tank. I'm loving the way it looks--I think I made the right decision. I'll keep you posted.

The Big Pink Bag is Done!

I have completed the pink cotton/ribbon duffel that I made for my lovely daughter. While this was not the most exciting or challenging project to knit, I did working with the Peaches & Creme, and I got satisfaction out of combining a few patterns and techniques to make this the first project I kind of designed myself. I made eyelets and sewed down a tube through which to thread them, using the instructions for "Folded or Hemmed Neckbands" in The Knitter's Book of Finishing Techniques. I then made a 56-inch long I-cord and threaded it through, then sewed the ends of the I-cord to the base of the bag to give it straps like a backpack.
Here are some images of it:


And here's a closeup of the drawstring area:


I have a whole POUND of the Peaches & Creme left, because I had no idea how much I was going to use and ordered two cones! I may try to destash it (if anyone is interested, let me know in comments...) or I may save it for some holiday gifts I'm planning to make: washcloths, bath sachets, that type of thing.

Now comes the fun part: casting on for something new! I am finally going to use the Great Adirondack Silk Noir that I bought last summer at Rosie's in Philadelphia. I was originally going to make Rosie's own Half Pi Shawl, but have since decided that I will try the Fiber Trends Landscape Shawl--I am not really a shawl-wearer, but I think I will like this one and it will show off the yarn nicely.
On to swatching!

The Big Pink Bag is Done!

I have completed the pink cotton/ribbon duffel that I made for my lovely daughter. While this was not the most exciting or challenging project to knit, I did working with the Peaches & Creme, and I got satisfaction out of combining a few patterns and techniques to make this the first project I kind of designed myself. I made eyelets and sewed down a tube through which to thread them, using the instructions for "Folded or Hemmed Neckbands" in The Knitter's Book of Finishing Techniques. I then made a 56-inch long I-cord and threaded it through, then sewed the ends of the I-cord to the base of the bag to give it straps like a backpack.
Here are some images of it:


And here's a closeup of the drawstring area:


I have a whole POUND of the Peaches & Creme left, because I had no idea how much I was going to use and ordered two cones! I may try to destash it (if anyone is interested, let me know in comments...) or I may save it for some holiday gifts I'm planning to make: washcloths, bath sachets, that type of thing.

Now comes the fun part: casting on for something new! I am finally going to use the Great Adirondack Silk Noir that I bought last summer at Rosie's in Philadelphia. I was originally going to make Rosie's own Half Pi Shawl, but have since decided that I will try the Fiber Trends Landscape Shawl--I am not really a shawl-wearer, but I think I will like this one and it will show off the yarn nicely.
On to swatching!

Rockin' Socks!

This week has ended up with somewhat of a focus on socks. While I am still plugging away at my large pink cotton bag (see last post), I have turned back to my Socks That Rock Marble Arches socks...which are finally finished:

I really like these socks. The colors are among my favorites, and the pattern was fun to knit and looks unique. I also love how the repeats in the yarn worked with the pattern--even though the repeats are different widths on each sock, each one is uniform and I like the way they look as a pair. Both have cool little stripes on the short-row heels--one of the first time I've done this type of heel.

Now I am about to cast on for my son's "Pittsburgh Steelers" black and gold socks. I am going to use the Garter Rib pattern from Sensational Knitted Socks, one of my favorite sock books. I'm reading comments about Charlene Schurch's second volume, More Sensational Knitted Socks, and hope to get it soon. This was the book that taught me to knit socks, and I am going to use this pair to try socks on two circulars.

I have also decided to participate in Sockapalooza 4, hosted by Alison over at The Blue Blog. I figure, since I have such a large sock yarn stash, two new sock books and a good amount of time (the socks are "due" August 2), I'll go for it!

Finally, I have been a beta tester for the next version of Sock Wizard software. I responded to an invitation to participate on one of my Yahoo Groups, and decided to give it a try, as I've toyed with buying some sock software but have not felt that I would design my own socks just yet. The testing has been enlightening--Carole, the software designer, and her team have been quite organized, dividing up the group of us into teams who check each aspect of the program for bugs, typos, etc. A lot goes into developing these tools, and I really appreciate them more now! With all the sock focus, it probably does make sense for me to try out this product--once all the bugs are worked out, of course!

Rockin' Socks!

This week has ended up with somewhat of a focus on socks. While I am still plugging away at my large pink cotton bag (see last post), I have turned back to my Socks That Rock Marble Arches socks...which are finally finished:

I really like these socks. The colors are among my favorites, and the pattern was fun to knit and looks unique. I also love how the repeats in the yarn worked with the pattern--even though the repeats are different widths on each sock, each one is uniform and I like the way they look as a pair. Both have cool little stripes on the short-row heels--one of the first time I've done this type of heel.

Now I am about to cast on for my son's "Pittsburgh Steelers" black and gold socks. I am going to use the Garter Rib pattern from Sensational Knitted Socks, one of my favorite sock books. I'm reading comments about Charlene Schurch's second volume, More Sensational Knitted Socks, and hope to get it soon. This was the book that taught me to knit socks, and I am going to use this pair to try socks on two circulars.

I have also decided to participate in Sockapalooza 4, hosted by Alison over at The Blue Blog. I figure, since I have such a large sock yarn stash, two new sock books and a good amount of time (the socks are "due" August 2), I'll go for it!

Finally, I have been a beta tester for the next version of Sock Wizard software. I responded to an invitation to participate on one of my Yahoo Groups, and decided to give it a try, as I've toyed with buying some sock software but have not felt that I would design my own socks just yet. The testing has been enlightening--Carole, the software designer, and her team have been quite organized, dividing up the group of us into teams who check each aspect of the program for bugs, typos, etc. A lot goes into developing these tools, and I really appreciate them more now! With all the sock focus, it probably does make sense for me to try out this product--once all the bugs are worked out, of course!

The Big Pink Bag

I'm back from a week of vacation, refreshed and happy that I had a lot of knitting time by the pool. I am on the home stretch of my Socks that Rock Marble Arches sock (about 16 more rows on the foot, before I begin the always quick toe decrease rows). I am, however, getting further and further behind on my sock yarn stash as I await the next STR Rockin' Sock Club delivery later this month!

I also started the pink cotton duffel bag for my daughter. This is somewhat of a freeform/experimental effort, as the two patterns from which I'm working do not give finished dimensions. My daughter insists that she wants a large bag, suitable for stuffing with clothes for a sleepover. The circumference of the base is about 13 inches, which is quite large in my opinion. Right now we're thinking that we'll go about 13 inches high, and then I'll do an I-cord drawstring. I've added one stripe of the pretty Kristha Mehta ribbon, and it looks very cute so far....just BIG. See:

The knitting on this is pretty mindless; I'm already looking forward to a challenging shawl that I hope to tackle next.

The Big Pink Bag

I'm back from a week of vacation, refreshed and happy that I had a lot of knitting time by the pool. I am on the home stretch of my Socks that Rock Marble Arches sock (about 16 more rows on the foot, before I begin the always quick toe decrease rows). I am, however, getting further and further behind on my sock yarn stash as I await the next STR Rockin' Sock Club delivery later this month!

I also started the pink cotton duffel bag for my daughter. This is somewhat of a freeform/experimental effort, as the two patterns from which I'm working do not give finished dimensions. My daughter insists that she wants a large bag, suitable for stuffing with clothes for a sleepover. The circumference of the base is about 13 inches, which is quite large in my opinion. Right now we're thinking that we'll go about 13 inches high, and then I'll do an I-cord drawstring. I've added one stripe of the pretty Kristha Mehta ribbon, and it looks very cute so far....just BIG. See:

The knitting on this is pretty mindless; I'm already looking forward to a challenging shawl that I hope to tackle next.

Made it!

Since we leave tomorrow for a week of vacation, and I wanted to get my One Piece Lace Pullover off to be finished, I burned the midnight oil last night, unravelling my ravels and finishing!

Here's a picture of what it looks like pre-blocking and pre-sewing together; I'm very pleased with it, loved making it, and now definitely want to make a Clapotis, preferable out of something as soft and yummy as this Brooks Farm Duet!

Now, just so I can be into something when we get to our vacation spot, I am casting on in the Peaches and Creme cotton for my daughter's pink cotton duffel bag, adapted from a pattern in Knitting with Ribbon Yarn. This is probably one of my more experimental patterns, in that I am not really following the pattern at all, just using it as a reference point and taking bits and pieces from other patterns and my imagination. I'm using small--size 4--needles, to ensure that the fabric is tight and secure. So we'll see how it goes. More to come when I return!

Made it!

Since we leave tomorrow for a week of vacation, and I wanted to get my One Piece Lace Pullover off to be finished, I burned the midnight oil last night, unravelling my ravels and finishing!

Here's a picture of what it looks like pre-blocking and pre-sewing together; I'm very pleased with it, loved making it, and now definitely want to make a Clapotis, preferable out of something as soft and yummy as this Brooks Farm Duet!

Now, just so I can be into something when we get to our vacation spot, I am casting on in the Peaches and Creme cotton for my daughter's pink cotton duffel bag, adapted from a pattern in Knitting with Ribbon Yarn. This is probably one of my more experimental patterns, in that I am not really following the pattern at all, just using it as a reference point and taking bits and pieces from other patterns and my imagination. I'm using small--size 4--needles, to ensure that the fabric is tight and secure. So we'll see how it goes. More to come when I return!

Tearing My Heart Out

It's been awhile since I've posted. Spent three days away on a business trip, and I packed two small knitting projects--my Marble Arches sock and my One Skein Wonders scarf...but didn't knit a stitch on either. I felt like I had to be working while on the plane with colleagues and clients, and during my stay I was busy with work-related activities from morning until I fell into bed each night. I missed knitting! It really grounds me.

So, I was happy to come home and have Knitting Group yesterday. I loved sitting around with the girls for two blissful hours of knitting on my One Piece Lace Pullover. BUT....I noticed that I had neglected to unravel at one spot where I had been supposed to unravel a stitch all the way down (this pattern is like the Clapotis, with unravels every 7 stitches of a lace pattern). I had already bound off above the unravel spot, and toyed with the idea of cutting the yarn, but I was afraid, and ended up ripping out 65 rows of mohair--not fun. While rewinding the yarn back onto the ball, somehow a big hunk came out of the skein and got very tangled. Two hours later, I ended up cutting the knotted part, but this morning, after some sleep, I patiently unravelled all of what I had cut off so I won't waste any of this gorgeous (but sticky!) Brooks Farm Duet.

Now I'm back on track and will be knitting with the satisfaction that I did everything I could to solve a problem. Here are a couple of shots of the sweater in progress, including a closeup of the unravelled pattern; I'm on the last sleeve, about 90 rows and I'll be done!

I think one of the reasons why I chose to rip was that I had also just found out that a dear friend has had a relapse of a medical condition. All should be fine, but I was feeling somewhat powerless, and at least the ripping (and the knitting) gave me comfort and the feeling that I could control my destiny. Better than any therapist, knitting is!

Another thing that's calmed me today is that I got Fiona Ellis's Inspired Cable Knits out of the library. I think I may need to purchase this book as I want to make EVERYTHING in it! Have any of you made anything from this beautiful book?

Tearing My Heart Out

It's been awhile since I've posted. Spent three days away on a business trip, and I packed two small knitting projects--my Marble Arches sock and my One Skein Wonders scarf...but didn't knit a stitch on either. I felt like I had to be working while on the plane with colleagues and clients, and during my stay I was busy with work-related activities from morning until I fell into bed each night. I missed knitting! It really grounds me.

So, I was happy to come home and have Knitting Group yesterday. I loved sitting around with the girls for two blissful hours of knitting on my One Piece Lace Pullover. BUT....I noticed that I had neglected to unravel at one spot where I had been supposed to unravel a stitch all the way down (this pattern is like the Clapotis, with unravels every 7 stitches of a lace pattern). I had already bound off above the unravel spot, and toyed with the idea of cutting the yarn, but I was afraid, and ended up ripping out 65 rows of mohair--not fun. While rewinding the yarn back onto the ball, somehow a big hunk came out of the skein and got very tangled. Two hours later, I ended up cutting the knotted part, but this morning, after some sleep, I patiently unravelled all of what I had cut off so I won't waste any of this gorgeous (but sticky!) Brooks Farm Duet.

Now I'm back on track and will be knitting with the satisfaction that I did everything I could to solve a problem. Here are a couple of shots of the sweater in progress, including a closeup of the unravelled pattern; I'm on the last sleeve, about 90 rows and I'll be done!

I think one of the reasons why I chose to rip was that I had also just found out that a dear friend has had a relapse of a medical condition. All should be fine, but I was feeling somewhat powerless, and at least the ripping (and the knitting) gave me comfort and the feeling that I could control my destiny. Better than any therapist, knitting is!

Another thing that's calmed me today is that I got Fiona Ellis's Inspired Cable Knits out of the library. I think I may need to purchase this book as I want to make EVERYTHING in it! Have any of you made anything from this beautiful book?

One Yarn Begets Another!

I am technically participating in "Knit from Your Stash?" Technically, that is. One of the caveats of this program (for me, anyway) is that if yarn is needed to complete a stash project, it's OK to buy more. The problem is, concentrating on finding matches for these destashing projects is taking time away from knitting!

Here's part of the saga: I had a ball of Kristha Metallic Yarn in a beautiful pink, brown and white colorway. I had bought it last summer to mix with another oddball that I'd gotten as part of the One Skein Secret Pal Exchange. My daughter fell in love with this metallic ribbon, but it's only about 60 yards, I can't find more of it online, and even if I did, it is expensive. I found a pattern for a cute Duffle Bag in a book I'd gotten out of the library, Knitting with Ribbon Yarn, by Tracy Chapman. We decided to do most of the bag in a straight cotton and then do some accents with this ribbon. After getting some tips on cottons from my Yahoo Knitlist friends, I settled on the Peaches & Creme Worsted Weight Cotton in Baby Pink, which I ordered directly from the manufacturer, Elmore-Pisgah. It should be arriving soon and I'm looking forward to making this bag.

Then, I had gotten 2 skeins of "Bumblebee" DK weight yarn as a gift from April as part of her destashing. I thought they'd be perfect for my Pittsburgh Steeler fan son for a pair of socks. After measuring his almost adult size foot, I realized the 280 yards wouldn't be enough, so I ordered a skein of Filatura di Crosa Zara in Bright Yellow to fill in the toes and heels.

Now I'm determined to stop shopping--even if it is contributing to destashing--and get back to work on my One-Piece Lace Pullover, which is proceeding nicely, and my second STR Marble Arches sock. With two plane trips coming up soon, I'll have to figure out which small project to take with me--either the sock or the scarf that's been languishing in my knitting bag.

One Yarn Begets Another!

I am technically participating in "Knit from Your Stash?" Technically, that is. One of the caveats of this program (for me, anyway) is that if yarn is needed to complete a stash project, it's OK to buy more. The problem is, concentrating on finding matches for these destashing projects is taking time away from knitting!

Here's part of the saga: I had a ball of Kristha Metallic Yarn in a beautiful pink, brown and white colorway. I had bought it last summer to mix with another oddball that I'd gotten as part of the One Skein Secret Pal Exchange. My daughter fell in love with this metallic ribbon, but it's only about 60 yards, I can't find more of it online, and even if I did, it is expensive. I found a pattern for a cute Duffle Bag in a book I'd gotten out of the library, Knitting with Ribbon Yarn, by Tracy Chapman. We decided to do most of the bag in a straight cotton and then do some accents with this ribbon. After getting some tips on cottons from my Yahoo Knitlist friends, I settled on the Peaches & Creme Worsted Weight Cotton in Baby Pink, which I ordered directly from the manufacturer, Elmore-Pisgah. It should be arriving soon and I'm looking forward to making this bag.

Then, I had gotten 2 skeins of "Bumblebee" DK weight yarn as a gift from April as part of her destashing. I thought they'd be perfect for my Pittsburgh Steeler fan son for a pair of socks. After measuring his almost adult size foot, I realized the 280 yards wouldn't be enough, so I ordered a skein of Filatura di Crosa Zara in Bright Yellow to fill in the toes and heels.

Now I'm determined to stop shopping--even if it is contributing to destashing--and get back to work on my One-Piece Lace Pullover, which is proceeding nicely, and my second STR Marble Arches sock. With two plane trips coming up soon, I'll have to figure out which small project to take with me--either the sock or the scarf that's been languishing in my knitting bag.

Marble Arches: One Down

I finished the first of my Socks that Rock Marble Arches socks, just in time for the first of this year's Rockin' Sock Club packages to arrive! I am really pleased with the way the yarn striped on this sock; I hope Sock #2 looks similar! I also love the new Socks that Rock colorway, and the pattern looks like one that I will be able to handle--not quite sure yet if I will use it or another. I won't give away too much info as I know everyone hasn't gotten their kits yet.

The Marble Arches photo is taken with the sock on my brand-new Fiber Trends Sock Blockers, which I purchased yesterday while on a business trip to Philadelphia. A meeting was canceled, which gave me time to sneak into Rosie's Yarn Cellar and purchase the Sock Blockers and a new pair of #1 DPN's. Now I am thinking I would like to try socks on two circs, and the consensus of my fellow Sock Club members is that the 24 inch length is the best, so I may use this opportunity to try the #1 circs to see how I like the KnitPicks Options needles...

Now it's on to Sock #2 and more on my Lace Sweater.

Marble Arches: One Down

I finished the first of my Socks that Rock Marble Arches socks, just in time for the first of this year's Rockin' Sock Club packages to arrive! I am really pleased with the way the yarn striped on this sock; I hope Sock #2 looks similar! I also love the new Socks that Rock colorway, and the pattern looks like one that I will be able to handle--not quite sure yet if I will use it or another. I won't give away too much info as I know everyone hasn't gotten their kits yet.

The Marble Arches photo is taken with the sock on my brand-new Fiber Trends Sock Blockers, which I purchased yesterday while on a business trip to Philadelphia. A meeting was canceled, which gave me time to sneak into Rosie's Yarn Cellar and purchase the Sock Blockers and a new pair of #1 DPN's. Now I am thinking I would like to try socks on two circs, and the consensus of my fellow Sock Club members is that the 24 inch length is the best, so I may use this opportunity to try the #1 circs to see how I like the KnitPicks Options needles...

Now it's on to Sock #2 and more on my Lace Sweater.