It is amazing. An actual blog post for my knitting blog. Will it actually happen or will I write half a message and abandon it? One can never tell.
I am proud to say I learned a new skill. Using kitchner in pattern. Woohoo. I feel so proud.
The Cardigan for My Hobbit Elanor sweater is nearly completed. The challenge was to graft the top of the hood together where there was cables. I had never done that before.
But after some searching online and using the noggin, I figured how.
First time through a knit stitch is a purl, second time through is a knit.
For a purl stitch, it is the exact opposite.
First time through to purl is a knit, second time through is a purl.
Took some focus, but it worked!
The hood looks good. Though the end of the cable probably wasn't the best place to send it. It looks a bit different. But honestly, no one other than a knitter will probably notice. I think it looks good. I need to take pictures of that and the half dozen other items I have knit in the past few months! *laugh*
So it is good to go except... It all comes down to everything is done except the *&#@ buttons! (And the i-cord for said buttons.) *sigh* Buttons are the bane of my knitting existence! I even *own* the buttons. I bought four little wooden toggle buttons at Walmart ages ago. It will look good with the sweater. But of course, do you think I can find them?? Nope.
I have to drive into the mess that some decade is supposed to be the guest/craft room. But it may also end up being a room for Elanor or the baby boy due in March. We are going to have to see if they can share a room for a while. DH and his sister shared a room and he said they were sad when they got split up. So I figure we can see if having them in the same room works. It will depend on what sort of sleeper he is since she isn't great. Just have to see when the time comes. (Though I don't even want to think about what we do with all the craft stuff if we do have to use that room for one of the kids!)
Franklin Habit has summed up the day I fear most in Elanor's growth...
http://the-panopticon.blogspot.com/2010/08/development-of-communication-in-human.html
*gulp*
I am happy to report I am taking off this Monday and the 20th through the New Year! It should give me some knitting time. (The next two Mondays I am watching DD as DH has to see clients. But otherwise there is some free time. Woohoo.) I am also hoping that DH will work with me to get what I told him I want for this Christmas. The rest of the apartment unpacked!! *grin* That would be the best present this year! Even better than *gasp* fiber! But then again, it would enable me to actually *find* the fiber I actually own. And maybe, just maybe, I could actually blow the dust off my spinning wheel that has accumulated since DD was born. Just in time for more to accumulate for DS. But hey, even a little spinning time would be nice. Been sooo very long. 14 months at least. *grin*
Okay. I have way too much work to get done to write more. Time to get to it!
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Friday, October 15, 2010
No Rhinebeck This Year
I am seriously bummed. *sigh* No Rhinebeck aka NY Sheep & Wool for me this year... *sniffle*
I got a sore throat, some congestion and a little bit of a runny nose late Weds. I really thought it was just the seasonal allergies given the change in weather. But it got worse yesterday. And even more full blow as the day progressed. Definitely not happy. *sigh*
Last year I missed Rhinebeck as DD was only a month old. So there was no way we were going. I was really looking forward to this year. But alas... *grumblegrowl*
I did make Maryland S&W this year for the first time. I am hoping this isn't some thing about only one fiber fest a year. *laugh*
On the plus side, in preparing to go to Rhinebeck, I did some searching through the mass of boxes that are the craft room/guest room. I *finally* found the Cardigan for Merry sweater (sorry Ravelry link) I had put somewhere safe. *laugh* Along with the yarn for the Flora Dress. So there are two WIP I hope to finish before DD outgrows them. The dress I made big as I figured it was for next summer. But the cardigan is for this winter. So I am hoping to actually finish it before she outgrows it.
I am nearly done with the Aviatrix Hat (again Ravelry link). I wanted to finish this for tomorrow as they are having a contest/drawing for people who get their pic taken with it at Rhinebeck. Ah well. It is still an adorable hat and will look cute on Elanor. Think the ear flaps will help it stay on which is a plus.
I really need to get some pics taken of FOs. It is kinda sad when I look at my Ravelry projects. There are sooo many without photos. But having a one year old in the house slows these things down. *laugh*
I also need to block the Traveling Woman shawlette. It looks beautiful, though as I feared, it isn't very long. I think I should have used larger needles. I am hoping to block some more length out of it. But I am not sure that will happen. The lace pattern was very simple repeats so I was able to work it up pretty quickly. (Okay. Quickly for me. About 2 1/2-3 weeks.) It looks beautiful and I think it really shows off the gorgeous yarn from Fresh from the Cauldron. It is the Tara Thornton colorway in Silk Sock (70% merino/30% silk). Yummy. I didn't take a pic of it, but here is someone else's that looks very close to mine.
Given I will be home all weekend, maybe I will be able to track down my blocking mats & pins. *crosses fingers* Though I *really* wish I were wearing it to Rhinebeck tomorrow as planned. Enough moping.
Think it is time to curl up on the couch with some tea and knit. That will help me feel better.
I got a sore throat, some congestion and a little bit of a runny nose late Weds. I really thought it was just the seasonal allergies given the change in weather. But it got worse yesterday. And even more full blow as the day progressed. Definitely not happy. *sigh*
Last year I missed Rhinebeck as DD was only a month old. So there was no way we were going. I was really looking forward to this year. But alas... *grumblegrowl*
I did make Maryland S&W this year for the first time. I am hoping this isn't some thing about only one fiber fest a year. *laugh*
On the plus side, in preparing to go to Rhinebeck, I did some searching through the mass of boxes that are the craft room/guest room. I *finally* found the Cardigan for Merry sweater (sorry Ravelry link) I had put somewhere safe. *laugh* Along with the yarn for the Flora Dress. So there are two WIP I hope to finish before DD outgrows them. The dress I made big as I figured it was for next summer. But the cardigan is for this winter. So I am hoping to actually finish it before she outgrows it.
I am nearly done with the Aviatrix Hat (again Ravelry link). I wanted to finish this for tomorrow as they are having a contest/drawing for people who get their pic taken with it at Rhinebeck. Ah well. It is still an adorable hat and will look cute on Elanor. Think the ear flaps will help it stay on which is a plus.
I really need to get some pics taken of FOs. It is kinda sad when I look at my Ravelry projects. There are sooo many without photos. But having a one year old in the house slows these things down. *laugh*
I also need to block the Traveling Woman shawlette. It looks beautiful, though as I feared, it isn't very long. I think I should have used larger needles. I am hoping to block some more length out of it. But I am not sure that will happen. The lace pattern was very simple repeats so I was able to work it up pretty quickly. (Okay. Quickly for me. About 2 1/2-3 weeks.) It looks beautiful and I think it really shows off the gorgeous yarn from Fresh from the Cauldron. It is the Tara Thornton colorway in Silk Sock (70% merino/30% silk). Yummy. I didn't take a pic of it, but here is someone else's that looks very close to mine.
Given I will be home all weekend, maybe I will be able to track down my blocking mats & pins. *crosses fingers* Though I *really* wish I were wearing it to Rhinebeck tomorrow as planned. Enough moping.
Think it is time to curl up on the couch with some tea and knit. That will help me feel better.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
I Am Not Yet Dead
Really. Truly. Not dead.
Though from a knitting perspective, it does seem that way! *laugh*
I haven't been knitting much of anything. It pains me to say it, but it is true. I got a bunch of knitting done over 4th of July weekend.
It being a long weekend with tons of car time, I even had two projects with me. I am thinking I will put a good dent into the modified Cardigan for Merry for DD. There was plenty to do so that could take the whole weekend. I knew the Ridged Cap to match the Eloise Sweater would be done half way to the Adirondacks. But it was simple knitting so good for the start of the trip.
So the hat is done. I am cranking along on the cardigan. When I realize... Guess what I forgot?! More yarn for the sweater! *sigh* I finished off the ball I had. But all the rest of the yarn was sitting at home. *grumblegrowlsigh*
Luckily there are some good yarn stores in the Adirondacks. Adirondack Yarns is a fav. They are the folks who got me hooted on Catalina Yarns. (Though the flip side was the woman suggested an alpaca/silk blend for socks. And while I love the socks I made with them, they don't stay up very well because there isn't enough elasticity.)
It was a chilly day so I decide Elanor should get to wear her Baby Surprise Jacket. Of course, I have it listed as WIP given I *still* don't have buttons for the thing. But I decided it was probably now or never for her to wear it.
So we went to Bog River and have some lovely shots of her in the BSJ.
That one is my current backdrop and says just how much she looks like her daddy!
There are more on Flickr.
By the time we got the Adirondack Yarns, DD was asleep in the car. So DH hung out with her while I went in to find something. I found some purple Universal Yarn Cotton Supreme that looked like it would make something nice. It is a very soft cotton. I really *should* have looked at the pattern books at Adirondack Yarns before I made my purchase. There was a dress that was adorable that probably would have worked with the yarn.
So when I got back to camp, I looked for a similar pattern. I came across the Flora Dress pattern for free. I really like it. Though I do wish it were a full top rather than a tube top with straps. But it is cute.
It is funny though. DD woke during my yarn buying so DH brought her inside. The shop owner complimented the BSJ. I explained it was my handspun yarn. Of course DH then says "That's why you wanted her to have this on. So you could get compliments." *groan* I was kinda embarrassed. But it was also kinda true. *laugh*
Since the 4th weekend, I have gotten sooo little knitting done. There was a bit in the car a few times. But next to nothing. It is embarrassing.
Though the big reason is that we moved. It was grueling. DH and I moved into the apartment 9 1/2 years ago. So over time, it was stuffed to the gills. I swore I was gonna sort everything before we moved, but it didn't happen. So unpacking is taking way longer than it should as well as I sort out what needs to be packed and put away or tossed. The new kitchen is about a third the size of the old one. So that has been a beast to tackle.
Though on the plus side, there is more room. Including... *drum roll*
A Guest / Craft Room!!
*gasp* I hear your envy. *laugh* Mind you, we will see if that lasts. With everything else that needs a home, I am not sure if it won't be overflow for the closet & Elanor's stuff. But I can dream it will stay a craft room with a pull out couch. *chuckle*
Though I swear if I found one more piece of fabric, I was going to cry. *sigh* I really need to figure out something to do with it all. I have tons from when I was doing medieval recreation. Now that I am not, I really should get rid of anything I won't use for DD. I can't recall the last time I actually sewed anything. *sigh*
I finally moved some socks to hibernation status. Mind you, I haven't touched them since probably May-June 2009. But I just couldn't admit they had taken the big snooze. They probably should be frogged. Not because the pattern and yarn are a bad combo. No real reason other than after that long and so little done on them, I am just not feeling the love. It is probably time to let them go.
I know they got pushed aside because I started knitting stuff for DD. So everything else got pushed to the side in favor of baby knits. And honestly, that hasn't really let up yet. I still continue to focus on baby/kid knits. I like making things she can wear. And there is something so satisfying about seeing her dressed in something special that I knit for her. Plus, you know there will come that day when she will not want anything I made for her! *laugh* So I figure I should take advantage of the fact that she can't talk yet. *smirk*
Okay. I am ending this otherwise it will never get posted!
Though from a knitting perspective, it does seem that way! *laugh*
I haven't been knitting much of anything. It pains me to say it, but it is true. I got a bunch of knitting done over 4th of July weekend.
It being a long weekend with tons of car time, I even had two projects with me. I am thinking I will put a good dent into the modified Cardigan for Merry for DD. There was plenty to do so that could take the whole weekend. I knew the Ridged Cap to match the Eloise Sweater would be done half way to the Adirondacks. But it was simple knitting so good for the start of the trip.
So the hat is done. I am cranking along on the cardigan. When I realize... Guess what I forgot?! More yarn for the sweater! *sigh* I finished off the ball I had. But all the rest of the yarn was sitting at home. *grumblegrowlsigh*
Luckily there are some good yarn stores in the Adirondacks. Adirondack Yarns is a fav. They are the folks who got me hooted on Catalina Yarns. (Though the flip side was the woman suggested an alpaca/silk blend for socks. And while I love the socks I made with them, they don't stay up very well because there isn't enough elasticity.)
It was a chilly day so I decide Elanor should get to wear her Baby Surprise Jacket. Of course, I have it listed as WIP given I *still* don't have buttons for the thing. But I decided it was probably now or never for her to wear it.
So we went to Bog River and have some lovely shots of her in the BSJ.
That one is my current backdrop and says just how much she looks like her daddy!
There are more on Flickr.
By the time we got the Adirondack Yarns, DD was asleep in the car. So DH hung out with her while I went in to find something. I found some purple Universal Yarn Cotton Supreme that looked like it would make something nice. It is a very soft cotton. I really *should* have looked at the pattern books at Adirondack Yarns before I made my purchase. There was a dress that was adorable that probably would have worked with the yarn.
So when I got back to camp, I looked for a similar pattern. I came across the Flora Dress pattern for free. I really like it. Though I do wish it were a full top rather than a tube top with straps. But it is cute.
It is funny though. DD woke during my yarn buying so DH brought her inside. The shop owner complimented the BSJ. I explained it was my handspun yarn. Of course DH then says "That's why you wanted her to have this on. So you could get compliments." *groan* I was kinda embarrassed. But it was also kinda true. *laugh*
Since the 4th weekend, I have gotten sooo little knitting done. There was a bit in the car a few times. But next to nothing. It is embarrassing.
Though the big reason is that we moved. It was grueling. DH and I moved into the apartment 9 1/2 years ago. So over time, it was stuffed to the gills. I swore I was gonna sort everything before we moved, but it didn't happen. So unpacking is taking way longer than it should as well as I sort out what needs to be packed and put away or tossed. The new kitchen is about a third the size of the old one. So that has been a beast to tackle.
Though on the plus side, there is more room. Including... *drum roll*
A Guest / Craft Room!!
*gasp* I hear your envy. *laugh* Mind you, we will see if that lasts. With everything else that needs a home, I am not sure if it won't be overflow for the closet & Elanor's stuff. But I can dream it will stay a craft room with a pull out couch. *chuckle*
Though I swear if I found one more piece of fabric, I was going to cry. *sigh* I really need to figure out something to do with it all. I have tons from when I was doing medieval recreation. Now that I am not, I really should get rid of anything I won't use for DD. I can't recall the last time I actually sewed anything. *sigh*
I finally moved some socks to hibernation status. Mind you, I haven't touched them since probably May-June 2009. But I just couldn't admit they had taken the big snooze. They probably should be frogged. Not because the pattern and yarn are a bad combo. No real reason other than after that long and so little done on them, I am just not feeling the love. It is probably time to let them go.
I know they got pushed aside because I started knitting stuff for DD. So everything else got pushed to the side in favor of baby knits. And honestly, that hasn't really let up yet. I still continue to focus on baby/kid knits. I like making things she can wear. And there is something so satisfying about seeing her dressed in something special that I knit for her. Plus, you know there will come that day when she will not want anything I made for her! *laugh* So I figure I should take advantage of the fact that she can't talk yet. *smirk*
Okay. I am ending this otherwise it will never get posted!
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Maryland Sheep & Wool
I got to go to Maryland Sheep and Wool!
Here is the beautiful distraction that keeps me from posting here:
This is Elanor at her first fiber fest!
Her dress was made by her super talented aunt! Sorry. I don't know what the pattern is. Bad blogger.
Maryland was an amazing festival. I really enjoyed it and would have enjoyed it more had it not been so $!*@ hot!
I ended up at Creatively Dyed Yarns. I *love* their colorways. So yummy. I got two skeins of Fatima Grace. It is for an Elanor sweater. I am leaning towards a top down yoke cardigan. I think it will show off the yarn well and look adorable on Elanor.
Need to get back to work! I would love to say I will post more, but... *laugh*
Here is the beautiful distraction that keeps me from posting here:
This is Elanor at her first fiber fest!
Her dress was made by her super talented aunt! Sorry. I don't know what the pattern is. Bad blogger.
Maryland was an amazing festival. I really enjoyed it and would have enjoyed it more had it not been so $!*@ hot!
I ended up at Creatively Dyed Yarns. I *love* their colorways. So yummy. I got two skeins of Fatima Grace. It is for an Elanor sweater. I am leaning towards a top down yoke cardigan. I think it will show off the yarn well and look adorable on Elanor.
Need to get back to work! I would love to say I will post more, but... *laugh*
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Super Quick Post
Things have been so crazed here. Between my 4 month old daughter & working full time, I haven't had much time for anything else.
So what did I do? I decided to cast something on for the Ravelolympics. Kinda crazy I know.
I didn't decide to do a super tough project. The challenge for me these days is just getting something knit at all!
I cast on the Swamp Dragon pattern on Saturday. It is pretty simple increased & decreases for the shaping. But it is still a challenge for me.
I am counting only the knitting for the Ravelolympics. I will need a zipper & eyes to finish it. And I think I may have to order them. So they may not be here in time. But I figure if the knitting is done, it still counts in my book!
So what did I do? I decided to cast something on for the Ravelolympics. Kinda crazy I know.
I didn't decide to do a super tough project. The challenge for me these days is just getting something knit at all!
I cast on the Swamp Dragon pattern on Saturday. It is pretty simple increased & decreases for the shaping. But it is still a challenge for me.
I am counting only the knitting for the Ravelolympics. I will need a zipper & eyes to finish it. And I think I may have to order them. So they may not be here in time. But I figure if the knitting is done, it still counts in my book!
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Overdue Pics of Finished Objects
I am long overdue on some finished object pics. So I figured I would put this together before the baby arrives. She is already past her due date which was Sunday. But it is pretty typical for a first time pregnancy.
I still don’t feel like she is coming any time soon. My OB says she will induce next Wednesday which will put it at nearly 42 weeks (which is when they get worried the baby might have problems if it doesn’t come out).
I am sure you will sense a theme in my knitting as of late. Surprise surprise!
Kimono Jacket in Fresh From the Cauldron Silver Sock Volturi Colorway
Cast On:
August 29 2009
Completed:
September 10 2009
Pattern:
Garter Stitch Baby Kimono by Joji Locatelli
http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/garter-stitch-baby-kimono
Made for:
Kiddle due in Sept. 09
Size:
6-9 months
Needles:
US 2 / 2.75 mm Knitpicks Options
In Vamp Club colorway The Volturi
~1 skeins = 420.0 yards (384.0m)
Purchased at Fresh From The Cauldron
http://squibstitcher.etsy.com
I decided to do this in stockinette to show off the beautiful yarn.
I started with 6 rows of garter to get it not to roll. Then I kept the 6 stitches at the edge in garter as well. Again, easy way to keep it from rolling yet make it simple to knit.
I did it a bit backwards for the pattern instructions. I bound the shoulder seams and then knit the sleeves in the round. Less seaming work involved is always a plus.
Also, I didn’t want to worry about finding buttons (still have two sweaters not completed as I need to find buttons for them). So I skipped the button holes and made i-cord closures & Chinese knot closure.
http://www.knittingdaily.com/blogs/daily/archive/2008/10/24/handmade-closures-chinese-knot.aspx
All in all, a simple, quick knit that was great for tv knitting.
I am glad it only took one skein. It means I have a second skein of this beautiful yarn for something for me!
First Coat for Kiddle
Cast On:
July 25 2009
Completed:
September 2 2009
Pattern:
First Coat by Debbie Bliss
from Essential Baby by Debbie Bliss
http://www.amazon.com/Essential-Baby-Handknits-First-Steps/dp/1570763682
Made for:
Kiddle
Size:
6-9 months
Needles:
US 2 / 2.75 mm & US 3 / 3.25 mm Knitpicks Options
Yarn:
Knit Picks Stroll Sport
~4.5 skeins = 616.5 yards (563.7m) in Hollyberry
&
~0.25 skeins = 34.3 yards (31.3m) in Black
Purchased at Knit Picks
http://www.knitpicks.com
Definitely glad I got extra yarn. The pattern says 4 skeins for the size. But it took at least 4 1/2. The Stroll sport says it has the same yardage per skein as the Cashmerino the pattern calls for.
Very simple knit. Just some decreases and increases. Mostly it is pretty mindless knitting so good for tv viewing and such.
I am very glad Knit Picks came out with a washable sport weight yarn. I think it is prefect for this project.
Made in size 6-9 so my baby can wear it during the winter. Might be a bit big, but might not be. Hard to tell. So I figure it is better to be too big than too small.
Decided to add the contrast color to the edge of the sleeves. I wish I had thought to do it at the bottom edge as well. I think that would have looked good.
The size 3 needles for the pattern definitely gives the piece a thicker, denser coat quality. I think it would have had better drape if I had used 4s instead. But it should be thick for winter wear this way.
The only downside of the pattern was seaming all the pieces together. My least favorite task. Just glad it was a baby item as there was a lot less of it.
Finished all but the buttons Aug. 23rd. Forget when exactly I got the buttons. I think I finished it around the beginning of Sept. I will just blame it on the pregnancy hormones. *grin*
Black Mary Janes
Cast On:
August 26 2009
Completed:
August 30 2009
Pattern:
Mary Jane Booties by Lucie Sinkler
http://home.howstuffworks.com/free-baby-bootie-knitting-patterns2.htm
Made for:
Kiddle due in Sept. 09
Size:
0-6 months
Needles:
US 3 / 3.25 mm Knitpick Options
Yarn:
Knit Picks Stroll Sport in Black
~0.5 skeins = 68.5 yards (62.6m)
Purchased at Knit Picks
Second pair of Mary Janes I made. Like the pattern as it is quick, easy and looks adorable. I am tempted to make these in every possible color.
I had nothing on my needles for the baby who is arriving in just 3+ weeks. *gulp* Given they are black Mary Janes, they should be cute & match everything. The wool will help keep her feet warm.
I put snaps instead of buttons on the straps. Much easier than fussing with tiny buttons on baby feet. I will do this with any I make in the future.
This may be my last post for a while. I suspect when the baby arrives, there won't be much time for updates! And the pics will probably be of the baby.
My general journal is where I keep the baby stuff - http://akkasha.livejournal.com.
I still don’t feel like she is coming any time soon. My OB says she will induce next Wednesday which will put it at nearly 42 weeks (which is when they get worried the baby might have problems if it doesn’t come out).
I am sure you will sense a theme in my knitting as of late. Surprise surprise!
Kimono Jacket in Fresh From the Cauldron Silver Sock Volturi Colorway
Cast On:
August 29 2009
Completed:
September 10 2009
Pattern:
Garter Stitch Baby Kimono by Joji Locatelli
http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/garter-stitch-baby-kimono
Made for:
Kiddle due in Sept. 09
Size:
6-9 months
Needles:
US 2 / 2.75 mm Knitpicks Options
In Vamp Club colorway The Volturi
~1 skeins = 420.0 yards (384.0m)
Purchased at Fresh From The Cauldron
http://squibstitcher.etsy.com
I decided to do this in stockinette to show off the beautiful yarn.
I started with 6 rows of garter to get it not to roll. Then I kept the 6 stitches at the edge in garter as well. Again, easy way to keep it from rolling yet make it simple to knit.
I did it a bit backwards for the pattern instructions. I bound the shoulder seams and then knit the sleeves in the round. Less seaming work involved is always a plus.
Also, I didn’t want to worry about finding buttons (still have two sweaters not completed as I need to find buttons for them). So I skipped the button holes and made i-cord closures & Chinese knot closure.
http://www.knittingdaily.com/blogs/daily/archive/2008/10/24/handmade-closures-chinese-knot.aspx
All in all, a simple, quick knit that was great for tv knitting.
I am glad it only took one skein. It means I have a second skein of this beautiful yarn for something for me!
First Coat for Kiddle
Cast On:
July 25 2009
Completed:
September 2 2009
Pattern:
First Coat by Debbie Bliss
from Essential Baby by Debbie Bliss
http://www.amazon.com/Essential-Baby-Handknits-First-Steps/dp/1570763682
Made for:
Kiddle
Size:
6-9 months
Needles:
US 2 / 2.75 mm & US 3 / 3.25 mm Knitpicks Options
Yarn:
Knit Picks Stroll Sport
~4.5 skeins = 616.5 yards (563.7m) in Hollyberry
&
~0.25 skeins = 34.3 yards (31.3m) in Black
Purchased at Knit Picks
http://www.knitpicks.com
Definitely glad I got extra yarn. The pattern says 4 skeins for the size. But it took at least 4 1/2. The Stroll sport says it has the same yardage per skein as the Cashmerino the pattern calls for.
Very simple knit. Just some decreases and increases. Mostly it is pretty mindless knitting so good for tv viewing and such.
I am very glad Knit Picks came out with a washable sport weight yarn. I think it is prefect for this project.
Made in size 6-9 so my baby can wear it during the winter. Might be a bit big, but might not be. Hard to tell. So I figure it is better to be too big than too small.
Decided to add the contrast color to the edge of the sleeves. I wish I had thought to do it at the bottom edge as well. I think that would have looked good.
The size 3 needles for the pattern definitely gives the piece a thicker, denser coat quality. I think it would have had better drape if I had used 4s instead. But it should be thick for winter wear this way.
The only downside of the pattern was seaming all the pieces together. My least favorite task. Just glad it was a baby item as there was a lot less of it.
Finished all but the buttons Aug. 23rd. Forget when exactly I got the buttons. I think I finished it around the beginning of Sept. I will just blame it on the pregnancy hormones. *grin*
Black Mary Janes
Cast On:
August 26 2009
Completed:
August 30 2009
Pattern:
Mary Jane Booties by Lucie Sinkler
http://home.howstuffworks.com/free-baby-bootie-knitting-patterns2.htm
Made for:
Kiddle due in Sept. 09
Size:
0-6 months
Needles:
US 3 / 3.25 mm Knitpick Options
Yarn:
Knit Picks Stroll Sport in Black
~0.5 skeins = 68.5 yards (62.6m)
Purchased at Knit Picks
Second pair of Mary Janes I made. Like the pattern as it is quick, easy and looks adorable. I am tempted to make these in every possible color.
I had nothing on my needles for the baby who is arriving in just 3+ weeks. *gulp* Given they are black Mary Janes, they should be cute & match everything. The wool will help keep her feet warm.
I put snaps instead of buttons on the straps. Much easier than fussing with tiny buttons on baby feet. I will do this with any I make in the future.
This may be my last post for a while. I suspect when the baby arrives, there won't be much time for updates! And the pics will probably be of the baby.
My general journal is where I keep the baby stuff - http://akkasha.livejournal.com.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Quickie Update
Just feeling like I should take a sec for an update. Though not too much to report.
The Baby Surprise Jacket still hasn't had what little seaming there is completed. Have I mentioned how much I dislike seaming? *grin* I should do it soon.
I was really glad I had my knitting with me in the car on Friday. DH and I were running around, looking at baby stuff. Unfortunately, there was a minor fender bender (more details on my non-knitting journal). We were both fine. It was start and stop traffic. So no one was going very fast. I don't even think our seat belts locked up.
It did mean that we had a lot of time to just sit around and wait for the cops to arrive and such. I had the First Coat for the kiddle that I was working on. It is a very simple knit which was sorta perfect. I also had the BSJ with me, but I just knew seaming at that moment could be a disaster. So I left it alone.
The funny thing was that I forgot my tape measure. So when I got home, I realized I had knit more than I should have. So I ripped back to the point when I should have started some decreases. Whoops!
I have finish the pieces other than the collar. Of course, that means that it is time for the dreaded seaming work! *laugh* I have to attach some pieces before I can pick up the stitches for the collar.
Overall, it is going well. And I think it will look really nice.
Though sooner or later I need *buttons* so I can complete the Baby Surprise Jacket, Loving Memories Lacy Bunting and the coat! I had actually stopped at a Michael's before the accident but they didn't have any buttons. *grumblegrowl* I should go up to the Garment District in the city and get some. It is just between all the baby stuff and having too much work to do these days, it has been a challenge to get away from my desk for lunch, much less out of the building to do anything else. Maybe next week. *crosses fingers*
The Baby Surprise Jacket still hasn't had what little seaming there is completed. Have I mentioned how much I dislike seaming? *grin* I should do it soon.
I was really glad I had my knitting with me in the car on Friday. DH and I were running around, looking at baby stuff. Unfortunately, there was a minor fender bender (more details on my non-knitting journal). We were both fine. It was start and stop traffic. So no one was going very fast. I don't even think our seat belts locked up.
It did mean that we had a lot of time to just sit around and wait for the cops to arrive and such. I had the First Coat for the kiddle that I was working on. It is a very simple knit which was sorta perfect. I also had the BSJ with me, but I just knew seaming at that moment could be a disaster. So I left it alone.
The funny thing was that I forgot my tape measure. So when I got home, I realized I had knit more than I should have. So I ripped back to the point when I should have started some decreases. Whoops!
I have finish the pieces other than the collar. Of course, that means that it is time for the dreaded seaming work! *laugh* I have to attach some pieces before I can pick up the stitches for the collar.
Overall, it is going well. And I think it will look really nice.
Though sooner or later I need *buttons* so I can complete the Baby Surprise Jacket, Loving Memories Lacy Bunting and the coat! I had actually stopped at a Michael's before the accident but they didn't have any buttons. *grumblegrowl* I should go up to the Garment District in the city and get some. It is just between all the baby stuff and having too much work to do these days, it has been a challenge to get away from my desk for lunch, much less out of the building to do anything else. Maybe next week. *crosses fingers*
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Baby Surprise Jacket in Handspun
Cast On:
August 7 2009
Pattern:
The Infamous Baby Surprise Jacket by Elizabeth Zimmermann
Made for:
Kiddle
Needles:
US 8 / 5.0 mm Knitpicks Options
Yarn:
Handspun blend of DragonFibers Superwash Merino/Tencel & The Fiber Denn Merino/Silk
~300-350 yards
Fibers:
4 oz. DragonFibers Superwash Merino/Tencel Fiber
Purchased from http://DragonFibers.etsy.com
Colorway - Heart of Darkness
Present from Silvercat
4 oz. Violet Silk/Superwash Fiber
Purchased from http://thefiberdenn.etsy.com
Colorway - Violet
Making for my baby due in September. Since the baby isn't born yet, I figured it would be good to make this now. Using the handspun means I wasn't sure what size the BSJ would be. But it means at some point in her life, it should fit her.
The handspun is 8.5-9.5 wpi. I tried a size 7 needle. A little too dense in garter. The size 8 needle has a nice feel. Tight enough to be warm, but loose enough to have some drape.
The yarn was spun for the 2009 Tour de Fleece. I was worried I might not have enough to complete the jacket. But I have yarn to spare.
I am so grateful for the pages with this project. The YouTube videos by L2Belt are extremely helpful. She offers some great suggestions on how to make this an easy project.
The wiki page photo by Nancepance also really helped to see where I wanted to add some strips. I am going to add it at row 21 for 6 rows and row 53 for 10 rows. This added enough without being too much.
I also used the spreadsheet by Civilgrrl. It is very straightforward which I found useful. It just gives the counts for each row. But it is set up row by row which helped me a great deal.
The DragonFiber has some striping to it already. But because I plied it with the Fiber Dragon, it is more modeled than straight striping. I only have a little of the solid violet from Fiber Denn.
Overall, I liked how quickly this went. I cast it on on Friday and bound it off on Monday. It was definitely quick to knit.
Just need to seam up the shoulders & add the buttons. Then it will be done!
I think if I had only had Zimmermann's instructions, I would have been pulling out my hair. But since I could use the different bits of help, it really made a huge difference. It made it a quick and fun knit. I think I just have trouble with Zimmermannese. Her patterns are very short and don't lay out much detail. So I am never sure about when you keep doing increases, when you are done with them, etc.. So it helped me so much having others who had done this and share the knowledge. Thanks heavens for Ravelry. Made it easy to find the info as the pattern has its own wiki page.
My DH did say there was a lot less swearing involved with this one. *laugh*
Though I am gonna have to figure out some creative words for when I run into trouble once the little one is born! *chuckle*
August 7 2009
Pattern:
The Infamous Baby Surprise Jacket by Elizabeth Zimmermann
Made for:
Kiddle
Needles:
US 8 / 5.0 mm Knitpicks Options
Yarn:
Handspun blend of DragonFibers Superwash Merino/Tencel & The Fiber Denn Merino/Silk
~300-350 yards
Fibers:
4 oz. DragonFibers Superwash Merino/Tencel Fiber
Purchased from http://DragonFibers.etsy.com
Colorway - Heart of Darkness
Present from Silvercat
4 oz. Violet Silk/Superwash Fiber
Purchased from http://thefiberdenn.etsy.com
Colorway - Violet
Making for my baby due in September. Since the baby isn't born yet, I figured it would be good to make this now. Using the handspun means I wasn't sure what size the BSJ would be. But it means at some point in her life, it should fit her.
The handspun is 8.5-9.5 wpi. I tried a size 7 needle. A little too dense in garter. The size 8 needle has a nice feel. Tight enough to be warm, but loose enough to have some drape.
The yarn was spun for the 2009 Tour de Fleece. I was worried I might not have enough to complete the jacket. But I have yarn to spare.
I am so grateful for the pages with this project. The YouTube videos by L2Belt are extremely helpful. She offers some great suggestions on how to make this an easy project.
The wiki page photo by Nancepance also really helped to see where I wanted to add some strips. I am going to add it at row 21 for 6 rows and row 53 for 10 rows. This added enough without being too much.
I also used the spreadsheet by Civilgrrl. It is very straightforward which I found useful. It just gives the counts for each row. But it is set up row by row which helped me a great deal.
The DragonFiber has some striping to it already. But because I plied it with the Fiber Dragon, it is more modeled than straight striping. I only have a little of the solid violet from Fiber Denn.
Overall, I liked how quickly this went. I cast it on on Friday and bound it off on Monday. It was definitely quick to knit.
Just need to seam up the shoulders & add the buttons. Then it will be done!
I think if I had only had Zimmermann's instructions, I would have been pulling out my hair. But since I could use the different bits of help, it really made a huge difference. It made it a quick and fun knit. I think I just have trouble with Zimmermannese. Her patterns are very short and don't lay out much detail. So I am never sure about when you keep doing increases, when you are done with them, etc.. So it helped me so much having others who had done this and share the knowledge. Thanks heavens for Ravelry. Made it easy to find the info as the pattern has its own wiki page.
My DH did say there was a lot less swearing involved with this one. *laugh*
Though I am gonna have to figure out some creative words for when I run into trouble once the little one is born! *chuckle*
Finished or Almost Finished Objects
I have been a busy bee with baby knits. I want to get as much done for the baby's arrival as possible. And heaven knows I love the instant gratification of baby knits! *grin*
So I have been working on knitting as much as possible.
Loving Memories Lacy Bunting
Cast On:
May 20, 2009
All Knit, Just Waiting for Buttons & Bottom Closure:
Around July 30th, 2009
Pattern:
Loving Memories Lacy Bunting by Lion Brand Yarn
http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/kwe-bunt.html
Made for:
Kiddle Due in Sept.
Needles:
US 4 / 3.5 mm
US 6 / 4.0 mm
Yarn:
Bernat Organic Cotton in white - 43006
Purchased at Smiley's Yarns in Woodhaven, New York
I looked at a number of buntings and really like this one. The lacy bits on the bottom will be lovely for my baby girl who is due in Sept.
I have decided to knit the body in the round. I loathe seaming and there doesn’t seem like there is a good reason why it needs to be done for this piece.
I subtracted 2 stitches from each side of the front & back. That means I cast on 180 sts.
I charted out the lace pattern. It is my first time converting a flat pattern into one in the round. It was definitely interesting. I should post the chart to my blog as it might be useful for someone else.
I finished knitting the body on 7/25. Added the hood which was done shortly afterwards.
Just need to add the buttons. I am also thinking about on putting a zipper on the bottom. The pattern suggests velcro. But after having some velcro get stuck to another knit item, I think having it on a knit item on purpose is just asking for trouble. So the zipper might work better.
Wave Jumper
Cast On:
May 17, 2009
Completed:
July 18, 2009
Pattern:
Wave Jumper by Leslie Barbazette
From from 101 Designer One-Skein Wonders
Made for:
Kiddle due in Sept.
Size:
3-6 mns - Middle size
Needles:
US 3 / 3.25 mm (I think, might have been a 2 and I didn't mark it)
Yarn:
Some Assembly Required Socks That Shine
~400.0 yards (365.8m)
Colorway - Roses Are Red
Purchased at Etsy Trunk Sale
The middle size pattern has errors in it. It should be 198 sts cast on. There are additional changes as well.
I was super impressed. I wrote to let the publisher know about the error. Within a day, the editor wrote me back with all the corrections! It was very cool.
They have posted the corrections for the middle size:
http://www.storey.com/correct_book.php?isbn=9781580176880
This was my third attempt at the pattern. The first two were in self striping yarns. I thought they would look good after looking at some finished projects. But they didn’t work at all.
I think this colorway is okay. It is still busy, but the colors relate well and I think it looks good.
I confess that there were times I thought I would never finish it. If it wasn’t that my baby will be here soon, I might never have completed it. The skirt was kinda tedious. But I did a bunch in the car which helped.
Going Home Mary Janes
Cast On & Completed:
August 1, 2009
Pattern:
Mary Jane Booties by Lucie Sinkler
http://home.howstuffworks.com/free-baby-bootie-knitting-patterns2.htm
Made for:
Kiddle
Needles:
US 3 / 3.25 mm
Yarn:
Knit Picks Shine Sport
~0.5 skeins = 55.0 yards
Colorway - Cherry
Purchased at Knit Picks
http://www.knitpicks.com
Figured these would be cute to go with the February sweater. It is to match my baby to come’s going home outfit.
They were a super fast knit and very easy. They look adorable. They only took a few hours to knit. Hope they fit well.
Suspect I will make others given the simplicity and the look of them. Very cute.
3 1/2” long
1 1/2-1 1/34” wide
I should have taken the pics *before* they got washed as they looked better. But they will look great on her feet!
I suspect I will make more of these. They were so quick and cute it is hard not to.
So I have been working on knitting as much as possible.
Loving Memories Lacy Bunting
Cast On:
May 20, 2009
All Knit, Just Waiting for Buttons & Bottom Closure:
Around July 30th, 2009
Pattern:
Loving Memories Lacy Bunting by Lion Brand Yarn
http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/kwe-bunt.html
Made for:
Kiddle Due in Sept.
Needles:
US 4 / 3.5 mm
US 6 / 4.0 mm
Yarn:
Bernat Organic Cotton in white - 43006
Purchased at Smiley's Yarns in Woodhaven, New York
I looked at a number of buntings and really like this one. The lacy bits on the bottom will be lovely for my baby girl who is due in Sept.
I have decided to knit the body in the round. I loathe seaming and there doesn’t seem like there is a good reason why it needs to be done for this piece.
I subtracted 2 stitches from each side of the front & back. That means I cast on 180 sts.
I charted out the lace pattern. It is my first time converting a flat pattern into one in the round. It was definitely interesting. I should post the chart to my blog as it might be useful for someone else.
I finished knitting the body on 7/25. Added the hood which was done shortly afterwards.
Just need to add the buttons. I am also thinking about on putting a zipper on the bottom. The pattern suggests velcro. But after having some velcro get stuck to another knit item, I think having it on a knit item on purpose is just asking for trouble. So the zipper might work better.
Wave Jumper
Cast On:
May 17, 2009
Completed:
July 18, 2009
Pattern:
Wave Jumper by Leslie Barbazette
From from 101 Designer One-Skein Wonders
Made for:
Kiddle due in Sept.
Size:
3-6 mns - Middle size
Needles:
US 3 / 3.25 mm (I think, might have been a 2 and I didn't mark it)
Yarn:
Some Assembly Required Socks That Shine
~400.0 yards (365.8m)
Colorway - Roses Are Red
Purchased at Etsy Trunk Sale
The middle size pattern has errors in it. It should be 198 sts cast on. There are additional changes as well.
I was super impressed. I wrote to let the publisher know about the error. Within a day, the editor wrote me back with all the corrections! It was very cool.
They have posted the corrections for the middle size:
http://www.storey.com/correct_book.php?isbn=9781580176880
This was my third attempt at the pattern. The first two were in self striping yarns. I thought they would look good after looking at some finished projects. But they didn’t work at all.
I think this colorway is okay. It is still busy, but the colors relate well and I think it looks good.
I confess that there were times I thought I would never finish it. If it wasn’t that my baby will be here soon, I might never have completed it. The skirt was kinda tedious. But I did a bunch in the car which helped.
Going Home Mary Janes
Cast On & Completed:
August 1, 2009
Pattern:
Mary Jane Booties by Lucie Sinkler
http://home.howstuffworks.com/free-baby-bootie-knitting-patterns2.htm
Made for:
Kiddle
Needles:
US 3 / 3.25 mm
Yarn:
Knit Picks Shine Sport
~0.5 skeins = 55.0 yards
Colorway - Cherry
Purchased at Knit Picks
http://www.knitpicks.com
Figured these would be cute to go with the February sweater. It is to match my baby to come’s going home outfit.
They were a super fast knit and very easy. They look adorable. They only took a few hours to knit. Hope they fit well.
Suspect I will make others given the simplicity and the look of them. Very cute.
3 1/2” long
1 1/2-1 1/34” wide
I should have taken the pics *before* they got washed as they looked better. But they will look great on her feet!
I suspect I will make more of these. They were so quick and cute it is hard not to.
Tour De Fleece 2009
I know, I know. This is long past due. But July was a rough month and this is the first I have gotten to post pics and write a bit about it.
I started the Tour with a lot of vigor. I spun a lot over the July 4th weekend, taking my Babe Double Treadle Production wheel with me to the Adirondacks. It was lovely getting to spin there.
Problem was when I got home from the long weekend, my cat was sick. I have posted about her on my non-knitting journal. If you read it, you will see that it was a rough month. In the end, I had to let her go. It still hurts so much. But it was her time to leave us I believe. I still get all teared up just thinking about her. I miss her a lot.
Between all the trips to the vet, caring and spend time with her and the sadness involved, I didn't get as much done for the Tour as I hoped. But I did complete 8 oz. of fiber.
I spun a single of the 4 oz. of DragonFibers Superwash Merino/Tencel fiber over the July 4th weekend. It is lovely to spin. I really want to pick up more from DragonFibers as they do some lovely fibers.
Thanks Silvercat for sending it. It really is lovely stuff.
DragonFibers Superwash Merino/Tencel Fiber from:
http://DragonFibers.etsy.com
Colorway - Heart of Darkness
Present from Silvercat
Though I confess, the pinks in there are *bright*. It is the reason I knew I didn't want to do a Navajo ply with this one. It just would have been too bright in sections.
I debated what to ply with the DragonFibers. I wanted something superwash as I was figuring this was going into something baby related. And given my wooly allergies, I don't really want to have any wool on the baby other than superwash. Superwash is specially treated and doesn't set off my allergies so I am hoping she has the same response.
I tried predrafting some superwash fiber I bought from Etsy in a darker colorway. But honestly, I am not thrilled with the way it was drafting. So I put it back and looked at my other fibers. I have a lot of fibers that either didn't match or weren't fibers I want to put against baby skin.
I finally remember the superwash/silk blend I bought from The Fiber Denn. http://thefiberdenn.etsy.com It is a beautiful fiber. And the silk gave it a nice long draw with some great petability. I figured the silk shimmer would compliment the shine of the tencel. So they would work well together and the violet wouldn't seem dull by comparison.
So I plied the two singles together and got ~398.0 yards of the two fibers together. I had some of the Fiber Denn single left. I was able to make a small skein that was about ~47 yds.
Honestly, this was the only thing I accomplished for the Tour. I am saddened that I didn't get more done. But under the circumstances, I actually did pretty well. I didn't spin every day that I should have. But given things with my cat, I got a lot more spinning done than I would have otherwise.
Spun on Babe Double Treadle Production Wheel. I love my Babe wheel. *smile*
I will confess though. I haven't done any spinning since the Tour! Ack. Once this was off my wheel, it has been dormant. I have been working on baby knitting or just too wiped to do anything.
Less than 6 weeks until my due date. So it isn't surprising that I am a little preoccupied. *laugh*
I started the Tour with a lot of vigor. I spun a lot over the July 4th weekend, taking my Babe Double Treadle Production wheel with me to the Adirondacks. It was lovely getting to spin there.
Problem was when I got home from the long weekend, my cat was sick. I have posted about her on my non-knitting journal. If you read it, you will see that it was a rough month. In the end, I had to let her go. It still hurts so much. But it was her time to leave us I believe. I still get all teared up just thinking about her. I miss her a lot.
Between all the trips to the vet, caring and spend time with her and the sadness involved, I didn't get as much done for the Tour as I hoped. But I did complete 8 oz. of fiber.
I spun a single of the 4 oz. of DragonFibers Superwash Merino/Tencel fiber over the July 4th weekend. It is lovely to spin. I really want to pick up more from DragonFibers as they do some lovely fibers.
Thanks Silvercat for sending it. It really is lovely stuff.
DragonFibers Superwash Merino/Tencel Fiber from:
http://DragonFibers.etsy.com
Colorway - Heart of Darkness
Present from Silvercat
Though I confess, the pinks in there are *bright*. It is the reason I knew I didn't want to do a Navajo ply with this one. It just would have been too bright in sections.
I debated what to ply with the DragonFibers. I wanted something superwash as I was figuring this was going into something baby related. And given my wooly allergies, I don't really want to have any wool on the baby other than superwash. Superwash is specially treated and doesn't set off my allergies so I am hoping she has the same response.
I tried predrafting some superwash fiber I bought from Etsy in a darker colorway. But honestly, I am not thrilled with the way it was drafting. So I put it back and looked at my other fibers. I have a lot of fibers that either didn't match or weren't fibers I want to put against baby skin.
I finally remember the superwash/silk blend I bought from The Fiber Denn. http://thefiberdenn.etsy.com It is a beautiful fiber. And the silk gave it a nice long draw with some great petability. I figured the silk shimmer would compliment the shine of the tencel. So they would work well together and the violet wouldn't seem dull by comparison.
So I plied the two singles together and got ~398.0 yards of the two fibers together. I had some of the Fiber Denn single left. I was able to make a small skein that was about ~47 yds.
Honestly, this was the only thing I accomplished for the Tour. I am saddened that I didn't get more done. But under the circumstances, I actually did pretty well. I didn't spin every day that I should have. But given things with my cat, I got a lot more spinning done than I would have otherwise.
Spun on Babe Double Treadle Production Wheel. I love my Babe wheel. *smile*
I will confess though. I haven't done any spinning since the Tour! Ack. Once this was off my wheel, it has been dormant. I have been working on baby knitting or just too wiped to do anything.
Less than 6 weeks until my due date. So it isn't surprising that I am a little preoccupied. *laugh*
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