HOOKEE'S HAPPENING'S

What can I say???

2010-08-30T18:59:00.012-05:00

It has been so long that I think I have even forgotten how to blog. I don't imagine anyone is still around here reading anymore, but I will do this for me and see what happens. My boss Sue, at boucle, has started blogging and she has inspired me to see if I can get going again. I will give it a shot in the dark. I am somewhat of and empty nester these days. The twins graduated this spring and all 3 of the kids are living in the basement apartment, cooking and cleaning for themselves. It is pretty scary actually. Our grocery bill has gone down, that is one nice thing! So on to the crafty side of my life. I still work at boucle yarn studio and I am so happy there. Who wouldn't? Being surrounded by colorful warm and cuddly fibers every day is a perk for sure. I will start out by showing off my most recent finished object.

This is Merope while she is blocking, This is the first one of the "Seven Small Shawls" by Romi Hill.

I used Jade Saphire's Cashmere Silk lace weight yarn and this shawl is heavenly soft.

Hibernation is Over!

2009-05-12T15:14:00.004-05:00

Well it seems I have been asleep for the winter and I have just woken up. We are in the midst of spring cleaning and preparing the house for graduation. OMG that is a lot of work! I have been wanting to organize and put things in order. I have been getting a lot of my pictures shuffled into proper folders on this blasted computer so now I feel like I can maybe share a few things. Of late I have finished the Lady Eleanor Stole and I love it. It got a bit wider than perhaps I would have liked, but my intent was to drape it on my chair in the living room when I am not wearing it, so that is OK. It will be perfect to wrap around my shoulders on a cold evening. Also I have finished socks 'Embossed Leaves' from the Favorite Socks book. I will share one more thing, a fun ruffle scarf made from corn yarn. I love it! It is a crisp clean white and is great for summer wear.
OK then, back to housework and painting.

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Feels like Fall

2008-09-02T11:40:00.000-05:00

Well the kids are back to school today and it sure feels like fall out there. It rained all night and is cool and cloudy out there. I have gotten quite a bit of knitting done this summer, but have been so busy with other home projects, I just have not kept up here. I am not even going to apologize anymore as I am not sure I will ever get back to a weekly posting. Ravelry is so fun and I share all my knitting projects there for the knitting people. This may well turn in to a family update spot. Anyway, I have finished my Sari Sircle made from recycled silk, the Capped sleeve tee from Fitted Knits, a couple pairs of socks... I am currently working on Jaywalker socks with Flat Feet yarn, very fall looking. I also have a Chris Bylsma sweater on the needles with some very expensive Prism yarn for embellishment. I am loving both these projects.

The cool weather is really putting me in the knitting mood and I may have startitis. I want to do a jacket or big cardigan. We are supposed to be getting some felted coat patterns in to boucle very soon, so I am planning a felted coat. I will want to make a fun scarf and cowl for winter, Socks of coarse...

Here are a few pic's of what I have been babbling about.

RedHawks Stitch and Pitch

2008-07-05T19:42:00.002-05:00

Fargo ND recently had it's first local stitch and pitch and it was tons of fun. I hope there are many more to come. I think we had a pretty great turn out for the first year. Between boucle yarn studio and the other local shop, we were able to sell 80 tickets, some of those were spouses, but none the less, they were there in support of the stitch and pitch event. Home team did not win, but the score was close periodically during the game, so it was exciting to watch.

I had just begun a new tank from Fitted Knits, so I was working on that project. There was quite a nice variety of things being knit, helmet liners, baby hats, socks, shawls... All of the attending knitters participated in knitting one long scarf for the team mascot "Hawkeye". I took a few picture of the event, so I will share some of them with you.

boucle yarn studio staff.

Me and my husband.

Ginger and Roger knit.

Hawkeye gets his scarf.

Back from Market!

2008-06-20T08:55:00.003-05:00

Hey everyone, I have been a busy girl ; ) I recently got to go to yarn market (TNNA) with the owner of our local yarn shop. OMG is all I can say! I was very nervous as I have had very limited travel experiences. It was just plain wonderful. I am so going to make a felted coat as soon as the patterns arrive. We ordered lots of fun new patterns and sooooo many new and yummy yarns. OMG, it was such a fabulous experience! We shopped, shopped, shopped. I am afraid Sue may not have taken the one with the most common sense and self control. hehehe. First the fashion show was incredible! Tons of wonderful long coats were modeled. Sort of like the Einstein coat only more fashionable. There is a new designer with a terrific new line of felted coats and we got the patterns, I can’t wait to make mine. Oh they are soooo cute. I think this season is about color and fun fibers reminiscent of the fun fur craze but way better. These new fibers have a multitude of different textures and fibers, like, ribbon, boucle, mohair, sparkly… all in one ball. We got some from 2 different vendors. One company calls this the Magic Ball, one calls theirs the Wild stuff ; ) Does that tell it all or what???

We added many new company’s, Got some Lorna’s Laces Superwash, beautiful!!!! Some waste silk, lots of fabulous fun Mohair from a new company (Be Sweet) with some great patterns, great new jewelry and stitch markers, some new bags, I can’t even begin to share everything here. Oh did I mention I had the most fab time. I got to meet, Cathy and Steve Elkins from the Ready Set Knit podcast, they sat right next to me at the luncheon where the Yarn Harlot spoke. Too fun. I met Sharon from She Knits Podcast, I saw Marlee, from the Yarn Thing podcast. I met Sandi Wisehart from knitting Daily and she gave me a hug! I had Lily Chin in my Cat Borhdi sock class. OMG, it was all so overwhelming! Oh and the buttons we found are to dye for! Fabulous big buttons perfect for purse closures. We got the NONI bag hardware kits, that come with the coordinating zippers, closures, clasps and feet for the bottom. Oh the list goes on and on. I can’t wait to start some new projects! We found fun things for our sock club members. SHHHH it's a secret ; )

OK now that I have been back, I have finished several projects that have been in the works.First off the Lotus Blossom Tank from you know where. I had more trouble than I care to reminisce about. I finished 2 pairs of socks and am just binding off for a cardigan. I have already cast on for 3 new projects ; )

I am preparing for our local stitch and pitch which is on July 1.

The stores 1 year anniversary is also coming up, and is going to be lots of fun. We are also going to participate in the first area fiber artists festival. Lots going on and not enough time.

2 a.m. Thunderstorm

2008-04-24T02:47:00.004-05:00

Well here I sit at 2 in the morning. We have a doggie who is terrified of thunder and she came down to our bed to tell me about the storm. She is having some medical problems right now and I felt so badly for her, I got up to make her a nice bowl of oatmeal and egg yolks. So, since I was up, I decided it was a good time to update this blog. BLOG, what is that you say?
Yes I do remember what a blog is.
There just doesn't seem to be enough time to blog, knit, spin, work, play on ravelry... and forget about cleaning the house.
So what am I knitting? I am working on my Landscape shawl, and am loving it. I am working on the Lotus Blossom Tank and thank God I just got through with the lace repeats. I won't even go into details right now, but let's just say that row 11 and I did NOT get along.
I have 3 pairs of socks on the needles, a green summer cardi made from Blue Sky Alpaca cotton.
There are a few other things on the needles, but they aren't currently getting much attention so we will forget about them for the time being ; )
I just took a picture of a felted sock sack that Michelle Taylor designed. We will have the pattern available at boucle yarn studio. It's just a simple little felted bag to keep your sock projects in, but oh so cute. I just had to make 2 of them. The one on right is mine, on the left is Michelle's. I will share a picture of my other one, another day.

Here's a sneaky peek.

Another month gone...

2008-03-18T11:28:00.002-05:00

I can't believe how the time is just flying by. Now that I work outside the house, there just never seems to be enough time. I really am trying here. Anyway, I will be starting a Shawl knit-a-long at boucle yarn studio. I am pretty excited about it, as it will be my first shawl and I chose a lovely yarn. It is a wool/silk DK by Sheep Shop. I wish the colorway was just a little bit darker, but it is still wonderful. There are currently 8 of us that will be working on the Landscape Shawl from Fiber Trends.

Other things I am working on: The Lotus Blossom Tank, (UGH lace) 3 pairs of socks, a summer cardi and a summer ribbon scarf. I am also considering starting a baby sweater for our store charity knitting project coming up. Too much to do and not enough time.

I am so glad the weather is finally warming up. We just purchased a beautiful Red 2007 Ford Escape and I am just loving it. It is so fun to drive, has a sun roof and heated seats ; )

On to the yarn, This is what I will be using for the shawl knit-a-long. If you want to see a nice close-up don't forget to click on the picture.

Spend the day with your true love

2008-02-14T08:51:00.008-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day!
May your day be filled with love and knitting.

Well it has been a few weeks again, I just can't seem to keep up. Oh well I will share a few things today. I recently finished a cute red bandana type neck scarf. Just simple garter with increases on the ends.
I am keeping busy knitting for the store and have more projects going now than I think I have ever had. Of coarse I realize that is a lot less than many knitters. I have 3 pairs of socks in the works, the lotus blossom tank, a shawl, and a vest.
I present the scarf

I am using Great Adirondack yarn "Casino" (Cotton/Rayon) for my very first shawl. Isn't it beautiful!

BRRRR it's cold outside

2008-01-31T10:36:00.000-06:00

Wow we have been in the deep freeze here in MN/ND this past week or so.

-24 a few days and that is not even considering the fierce winds. Anyway I finished a toasty warm cowl made from Merino and I just love it. I modified the pattern from the Stitch and Bitch cowl. I don't seem to be able to keep up here lately. I am blaming my time on Ravelry and then of coarse knitting time cuts into blogging also. I will try to be better. Oh yeah and now that I am working outside the house, that might be the biggest issue ; )

So without further ado:

Red Scarf Project

2008-01-15T19:37:00.000-06:00

I work at Boucle Yarn Studio in Fargo ND and we are encouraging people to participate in the American Red Heart Association, scarf project. I created a scarf using a strand of my own handspun and a strand of a cheap red sock yarn.

It is my own simple pattern and I am calling it "Fit by Forty" scarf.

I think it turned out great, especially since I am definately not a designer.

Here is a bit more info and a link for anyone who might be interested. There is still time! It only took me 2 days to make this scarf. The scarves will be on tour throughout ND. http://www.gorednd.com/

Fargo Go Red For Women02/09/2008 8:30am -- 12:00pm Fee: Free event. Ticket required. Location: Fargo Holiday Inn 13th Avenue S Fargo, ND 58103
Many women are unaware that heart disease is the leading cause of death for women - it kills nearly half a million women each year at the rate of about one per minute. But, you can make positive changes in your life that could help reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.
Join us on Saturday, February 9th at the Fargo Holiday Inn to learn more. Our emcees are Kerstin Kealy and David Martin. Chris Linnares is the keynote speaker, and Jenna Johnson will lead Get Up. Tickets will be available at Macy's after January 14th.
8:30 am
Registration
8:30 - 10:00
Exhibits in the Harvest Hall
10:00 - 12:00
Program in the Great Hall

Also a few lovely pictures of a frosty morning here in Moorhead. Love it when the tree's are all white and frosty.

Bold and Bulky mini cardi

2008-01-03T22:19:00.000-06:00

Oh this was such a fun knit! Really fast and my first life size, top down sweater. The bulky yarn is a little hard on the hands, but not a huge deal. I used Blue Sky Bulky Alpaca for this project, the pattern is from the book Fitted Knits by (Stefanie Japel). It took me about 2 weeks, but if I wouldn't have had a few mis-starts and the re-do of the button band, I am thinking I could have actually gotten it done in 2 or 3 days.

Yes there was errata on the very first row, for the medium size. Seems to be a normal thing for me.

Also I had been reading about others on Ravelry, who have made this pattern. The majority thought the pattern called for way to many stitches to be picked up on the neck band. I must agree, after I was completely done, I ended up ripping the whole band off and doing it again. I left off a total of 12 stitches. I like the end results so much better. I can't wait to wear this sweater. The buttons are made of coconut.

Currently on Display in Boucle Yarn Studio's (Fargo ND) store window.

Christmas Creatures

2007-12-30T14:39:00.000-06:00

The holidays are nearly over. New Years is left and then on to 2008. I have been busy knitting and making Christmas gifts so have not posted in a while. The Christmas Creatures were lurking about in more ways than one. Every time I thought I was way ahead of schedule and doing great, I would think of a million last minute things I needed to get done. The shopping never seemed to end. The kids kept saying they needed to get one more thing, so it seemed I was running out, every singe evening. Anyway, about the so called creatures, I had decided to make the Knitty Pocket Hand Warmers http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEwinter05/PATTpocketcreatures.html

For my teen boys and a niece, for Christmas and they seemed to be taking forever. I kept putting them on the back burner, thinking they were a quick knit. Essentially they probably are, but not when you don't work on them. I finally finished them, the day before Christmas Eve.

I think they are totally cute and I am pretty sure at least one of my sons loved his. I always give the kids at least one thing handmade by me, that they do have an appreciation for handmade gifts.

Now that Christmas is over, I look forward to some "ME" knitting.

Check out these litte creatures.

.................Mimi............Eddie.................Uni

Felted Wine Sack

2007-12-14T20:31:00.000-06:00

I finished this wonderful felted wine sack for my sister for Christmas, It turned out so nice.

I couldn't be happier, it was a quick knit and I can see myself making this as a quick gift for other occaisions.

Pattern can be found in the book, Knit one, Felt too by Kathleen Taylor.

http://www.amazon.com/Knit-One-Felt-Too-Discover/dp/1580174973

This little piggy

2007-12-11T22:36:00.000-06:00

went WEEE WEEE WEEE all the way home. I finished a sock last night (WEEEEE) to complete a pair that I started way back in June. I am so happy to be done. First of all, it was a cotton/wool blend and I am not so very fond of knitting with cotton.

Second of all, we will be starting a sock club at Boucle Yarn Studio the first of the year and I can't wait to start that! I believe the first months yarn, will be hand dyed in our own store colors.

HOW FUN IS THAT??

Check out these babies. I do think they are my best pair yet. No annoying holes where the gusset begins.

Sweater Ornament

2007-12-07T22:00:00.000-06:00

Another quick picture of the sweater ornament on its hanger, it will get gifted tomorrow. Poor Rudy is once again without a sweater. Don't forget you can click on the image for a close up shot of the stitch definition. Oh yeah and I forgot to mention that this is my very first top down sweater. Actually, it is only the second sweater I have ever made. Not sure it really qualifies as a sweater since it is in miniature ; )

I, so enjoy our local fiber artists guild and tomorrow is our Christmas party. It is held at a wonderful bed and Breakfast, Chez Suzanne in Fargo ND. http://www.chezsusanne.com/
We share a wonderful afternoon of visiting, show and tell, eating, exchanging ornaments and knitting. I will be bringing a wild rice casserole. YUMM!

I can hardly wait.

Rudy's Sweater

2007-12-05T22:38:00.000-06:00

Just a quick post to share this cute little sweater I made for a Christmas ornament.

It will go onto a hanger for the exchange. Hopefully I can get pictures of that before I give it away at our guild Christmas party.

The pattern called for lace weight yarn and I used fingering so it is just a smidge bigger than I wanted. But still perfect for the tree. Now I will have to make one to keep for my reindeer friend,

Rudy.

Christmas Hustle

2007-11-30T21:24:00.000-06:00

Well I am late again, The holidays have got me running so that I am neglecting my blog. Been so busy I can't even knit for myself. I have a million things on my want to do list!

So Sorry, I am not keeping up with you all! Anyway, I finished a fun wine sleeve from Keep it Simple designs http://www.keepitsimpledesigns.net/p_accessories.html

It is knit with Cascade Alma and though, I am not very fond of working with this yarn, it does knit up lovely. I think I have issue's with texture.

It is on display at boucle yarn studio in Fargo ND where I work, if you are in the neighborhood, pop in to see it. Wine sacks or sleeves make great quick gifts. I have also finished a felted wine sack for my sister for Christmas. I am currently knitting on my first top down sweater. I am nearly done, it has only taken me 2 days ; ) Well..... it's actually a miniature for a Christmas ornament. For today I will share the wine sleeve. The sweater and felted sack to come soon.

Dazzling in my Hat

2007-11-15T22:21:00.000-06:00

Even though there is no real stitch definition on felted items, I will share yet another felted project this week. I feel rather smart and Dazzling in my new hat.

So feast your eyes on my cuteness ; )

It looks rather gray in the one picture, but the brown color is the true representation.

School Colors Clogs

2007-11-13T19:13:00.000-06:00

I made these for my DD for Christmas and if I do say so, they turned out great. It is nice to have a jump on the Christmas knitting. Now on to the next project. I will be making a felted wine bag for my sister.

Humongous Hat

2007-11-08T09:00:00.000-06:00

After working on the sweater for a few months I needed a quick project or two. I have been knitting a hat that I will felt down. It is tooooo funny. I had my son take a picture of me wearing it (prefelting) so you can all get the effect. Do you like my flannel jams? Do you all remember the Fat Albert cartoon, with that kid who had the hat pulled down over his face all the time. Well what do you think....

I will be felting this weekend. I also have a pair of clogs that is nearly done. Can you say

Big Foot! So these two projects will hit the washing machine together.

It's Done!

2007-11-01T11:39:00.000-05:00

My first handknit sweater. I am overjoyed. It is laying flat to dry right now and I have taken a few pictures. I can't wait to wear it and get a picture with it on. I think I must go shopping for a black dress so I can wear it, as the model in the book is wearing it. Too Fun!

So here are a few pictures. I will post a picture of me modeling once it is dry and I have that new dress ; ) This first one is of the Kimono hanging on the wall in the local yarn store where I work.
Boucle' Yarn Studio in Fargo ND.

Here I am!

2007-10-30T12:48:00.000-05:00

I have been missing in action. But the good news is that I have a new camera and hopefully I will figure it out well enough to post some pictures. Today I will attempt to share pictures of a simple finished scarf. It is made from one skein of Holo Hoops yarn and makes a lovely glitzy scarf.

It will dress up anything from blue jeans and a blouse to a pretty evening dress.So lets give this new camera a test run.

Not sure of the quality because of the glitziness of this yarn. So bare with me.

Don't forget to check out close up's by clicking on the pictures.

Blue Sky Alpaca Boot Warmers

2007-10-13T19:20:00.000-05:00

YEE HAA, Yippee, I got a few pictures of my finished bootwarmers and the disk drive on the old computer cooperated tonight.

So here you go. Aren't these fun?

I am very excited to have them and plan to do a red pair also. The alpaca yarn is so soft and fun to work with. I am planning to use some sport weight in a hat/scarf set for me.

Printer has arrived

2007-10-13T08:55:00.000-05:00

Well the new printer is here and I have had it working twice, but now it isn't working again. I have had tech support helping me via phone and the local ISP has been to the house once.
Why do I have these issues? I honestly haven't messed anything up on my own, it just keeps loosing contact. HMMM, I guess I will be contacting tech support again. I am tired.

Now on to the knitting! Yesterday, I finished a fun pair of boot warmers from Blue Sky Alpaca.
They are currently on display in the the store. I will try to get a picture with my camera and see if I can get the old computer to cooperate in the upload process. The Dofuku Kimono is coming along nicely, and I am thinking of starting a hat, scarf, mitten set for the upcoming cold weather
I am also looking at new camera's so please bear with me. In the mean time, I will share the picture of the boot warmers from the pattern it's self.

I will be attending a guild class today on how to do socks on 2 circs. I already do the Magic Loop technique and love it, but figure it can't hurt to know another technique. Anyway, no pictures of any finished objects this post, but perhaps by the end of the weekend.

Computer progress

2007-10-02T12:38:00.000-05:00

Well I ordered the proper printer today, lets hope when it arrives, that it is the one I want.

I also installed a bunch of software today. The biggy was the Adobe Photoshop. Hopefully I will get some great photo's if I ever figure out how to use the program and update my camera.

In the mean time, I am going to share a picture of the Dofuku Kimono that I am in the process of making. Yarn being used can be seen in prior post. I am just beginning sleeve number 2.

Holo Hoops

2007-09-30T16:38:00.000-05:00

I just purchased this fun novelty yarn at the yarn store yesterday, the shop has a lovely sample knit up in a simple garter stitch scarf. Just cast on 10 or 12 stitches and knit until you run out of yarn; the scarf is just perfect to wear with a blouse or even to glitz up a T-shirt. She had made hers out of a lovely wine shade. But I think this colorway (coffee break) will be very versatile with my wardrobe. I realize that it doesn't show up very well here, partly due to the glitzy holo hoops and sheen of the yarn itself. Also, I am still having computer and camera issues. I had to send my printer scanner back to Dell as I received the wrong one. Such seems to be typical in this household.
Anyway on the knitting front I am making good progress on my Dofuku Kimono. I have begun the first sleeve. It is looking lovely for sure. I can't wait to finish it.

NEW COMPUTER

2007-09-22T20:32:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone, I got my new Dell laptop this week and I am having a hard time getting it all together. I spent several hours getting my wiresless router set up with tech support the day I got it. Last night my son tried to move my Itunes library from the old computer and somehow got a bunch of other junk from my old computer moved over and it seems that half my computer hard drive is already full. HOW COULD THAT BE????? Whoa is me. I will be having to talk to tech support again. Itunes library is not loaded either.
I have yet to even attempt to hook up the printer.
You will have to excuse my lack of photo prOn until I get this thing figured out.
I am loving the portability of it and Vista is kinda cool too. I will try for pictures next week, keeping fingers crossed I will have it all mastered by then.

Dofuku

2007-09-13T08:16:00.000-05:00

Oh I am so excited to have started on a sweater, a real SWEATER. It is from the Knit Kimono book by Vicki Square http://interweave.com/knit/books/KnitKimono/

I think it is so beautiful. It will be a sample for the store, but I can wear it when I want and it will be mine, all mine, when she is done with it.

The book had theirs done in a golden yellow they called ginger with black trim. I am doing mine in a rusty red color with the black trim.

I am using Nature spun worsted weight wool and it is feeling lovely. The ball band calls it pomegranate but I think it is more like paprika.

Anyway, the pattern is titled "Dofuku" (short jackets worn by samurai generals over their armor on the battlefield or over kosode at home for relaxation).

I hope to have it done by the 3rd week of Oct. That is the yarn shops grand opening.

Isn't the color wonderful!

SoHo or So So

2007-09-06T12:18:00.000-05:00

Remember the bag I was working on a week or so back? The one for the store to use as a sample? Well that original bag that I was making from the book "Bags a knitters dozen" has been frogged. Hallelujah!!!!

The pattern had so many errors and I just couldn't figure it out. I even had 2 very experienced knitters from the knitting store coaching me on that bag. Finally the shop owner, said to forget it, because if it was such a headache for me, we sure wouldn't want to encourage customers to knit it. So I chose another simple bag from the same book.

The SoHo Sling. It sure looked cute in the book, but I am just not WOW'd by this pursey/pouch. I tried to make it truly grand by giving it some great beaded fringe and a lovely vintage lining. The fabric is from my mothers fabric stash. I am pretty sure the fabric is about 40 years old and that she had a housecoat made from it when I was just a little girl ; ) Anyway the bag just doesn't hang nice if you ask me. But that may well be my old age. I think perhaps a young gal, may just love to throw it on her shoulder for a fun accent piece. It does have 3 different hanging options. I have photograghed 2 of them. The third option requires a button that a loop hooks around, it sort of makes the bag fold into a triangle. See the loop in the one photo? The handle is pulled through it for one of the looks. I have not added the button as the store owner didn't think it was necessary. I, do not like shoulder bags particularly well, so perhaps that is why I don't care for this bag. It is about 9 inches by 9 inches.

So is this a bag you would love to have or is it just "So So"?

Struggling along

2007-08-30T15:34:00.000-05:00

I have been having yet more computer issues of late. It seems that the disk drive on the computer is not working properly which presents a problem for loading my photo's. I have an older sony digital camera which takes pictures on a regular floppy diskette. So every time I try to get my pictures off the disk by inserting it into the computer disk drive, the computer tells me that I must insert the disk. HMMM, I just did! If I putter around waiting for a while, sometimes it works, sometimes I need to take it out and retry several times... Anyway, I have been wanting a new computer for several months and saving my pennies. I have about half what it would be for the nice system I want. I have been patiently holding out. Today hubby went on line with my son's help and ordered me the computer I want. He says he will pay the second half and it will be my Christmas present. I am pretty darn excited about that, but it will be about a month before it arrives as I am having a dell built special for me.

Anyway, I will quit rambling about that, but I wanted everyone to be aware that if I don't post any pictures, it is because I can't get the darn things off of my camera and into the computer.

So for this weeks yarn PrOn, I made a mitten holding a strand of Fortissima sock yarn and a strand of Kid Seta mohair together. It turned out OK, but nothing as fabulous as the ones my cousin made last winter. Besides the fact that I am not crazy about the mitten, I discovered that I am allergic to mohair. ICK! I had suspected this the first few times I tried to spin mohair and I got a scratchy throat, sniffly nose and runny eyes. Well this week while I knit with the mohair, my chest got tight and I got a runny nose and a bad headache. NO fun at all. I did take some benandryl to get me through the one mitten. I will wait a week or so to finish the second one. But I will not be knitting with mohair again. Not sure what I will do with all the kid silk haze I bought to work into a shawl. HMMMM

So here are the pics:

Three for the Road

2007-08-23T15:38:00.000-05:00

I am currently knitting this bag as a store sample. It is the
"Three for the Road" bag from the book (Bags a knitters dozen) www.amazon.com/Bags-Knitters-Dozen/dp/1893762203

Let me warn you that if you have this book or are thinking of buying it, check out the corrections here:
www.knittinguniverse.com/books/bookscorrections/Bags/bagsweb.pdf There are many errors and clarifications in this book. Anyhow, the pattern comes in 3 sizes for 3 different weights of yarn. I am making the medium sized bag using Cascade Alma. It is 54% cotton and 46% viscose. I like the color of the bag, but I am not used to this textured style yarn. I did not use the yarn called for by the way. The pattern called for ROWAN Pronto (50% cotton, 50% Acrylic) The Alma is like a chenille and satin cord wrapped together and is knitting up with odd loopy things popping out of the finished fabric. It is the chenille part that is sproinging out ; ) The yarn shop people, have assured me that it is the nature of the yarn and not to fret about it. I guess that I will be expanding my horizons and knitting with all kinds of fun fibers, now that I am working at a yarns store.

So without further ado, here ya go....

Tea Time

2007-08-16T21:36:00.000-05:00

From tank time to "Tea Time"... My first knitting project for the new yarn shop was to knit a tea cozy. I collect tea pots so it was a fun project and not too difficult, for this beginner. Once I mastered the flat 2 strand knitting I was good to go. I was having a dickens of a time figuring out how to keep the carried yarn on just one side of the project. Sometimes I should just stop and think things through ; )

Anyway I set up a very cute display at the store with a white rectangular plate, some tea bags, and a loose leaf tea straining spoon. The very first day it was on display in the store, several people commented on how cute it was and one lady even bought the pattern. What a boost to my ego!

Check it out! It will be very cute to have it back once the store is done with it.

Tank Time

2007-08-09T21:38:00.000-05:00

Sorry, I was missing in action again last week. I had my mother in law visiting for the last 10 days. It was a delight, but computer time was limited.
Well it is about time I finished this tank. Summer is nearly over and this first sweater project ended up being a real bummer. I didn't like the yarn and I didn't think the pattern was written very clearly for a beginner. It most certainly is not my best work, but I am glad it is done and I will wear it to work tomorrow. It does seem a bit big, but that is OK, I plan to wear it under a cropped jacket and I think it will look great. I think the bamboo yarn is heavy and makes it just hang. Some call this drape, I don't like it!

Hey I am not sure I have mentioned it here on my blog yet, but I got hired on at the new yarn store that I applied at about a month ago. I am on my second week and I am soooooo loving it. It is pretty sad when you even enjoy the dusting. This job is nothing like my Hobby Lobby nightmare and I am so glad that I applied.
The only part giving me a few issues at the moment is the computerized cash register.
It is just so much to remember for me. I am sure that once I get the routine down it won't be a big deal. The owner has been so incredible and patient with me and I really enjoy working with her. Anyway, here are some pictures of me in the tank.

New Craft Room

2007-07-27T21:18:00.000-05:00

Well there is not going to be any fibery goodness this week. I spent the whole week organizing a new craft/guest room.

I had previously had my crafty area in the basement, but we recently moved our son down there and converted his old room into something new and versatile. I am very happy with it! My mother-in-law will be coming to stay next week so I needed to get a move on, and she will be visiting more often since the loss of her husband. I want her to have a room instead of just the hide-a-bed. It is a bit cramped in there, but it will be her own space when she visits.

Anyway, since I began knitting, my other hobbies have gone by the wayside, but now that I have a new fun room, I might just work up there a bit. It feels really cozy and less overwhelming than my huge area had become. I had so much space down in the basement, that it had gotten to be quite the junk heap. So for this week, you will have to except pictures of the new space.

Play nice together, now!

2007-07-19T22:35:00.000-05:00

I have an upcoming guild project, we will be making a Christmas Angel ornament. It calls for angora yarn and I decided to spin my own. Actually a blend of bunny and alpaca as I didn't quite have enough bunny. I ended up with 40 yards (14 grams). Anyway, I also purchased some kidsilk haze and I am planning to include the extra fine strand to the wings. It's white with a slight sparkle to it. I think it will add that extra special touch that will make it different from all the others ; )

I am hoping the bunny and the mohair/silk will play nicely together and make the perfect angel wings. Click on the kid silk picture for a closer view of the sparkle.

See them snuggle. I think they like each other. What do you think?

I am so pleased with my spun bunny. It was so fun. I've heard that it's a difficult fiber to spin, but it actually went very well for a first try. Isn't it Divine?

Wool of the Andes

2007-07-13T09:16:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday! I had a job interview yesterday, for a job with a new local yarn store. It will be opening very soon. I am pretty excited about the possibility of it. I am pretty sure it will be my dream job. I think the interview went well, even though I had to explain that I am not an expert knitter. I am keeping my fingers and knitting needles crossed. I also heard that our other local yarn store is now closing it's doors. I was pretty shocked by that news. I guess life moves on, It will definitely be good for the new yarn store.

Anyway, I recently purchased this Wool of the Andes by Knit Picks to make their Entrelac bag. http://www.knitpicks.com/Felted+Entrelac+Tote_PD50406220.html

I have not done Entrelac before so it will be fun to learn something new. I chose my own color palette and hope that I ordered enough yarn. They didn't give the amounts so that I could be sure how much I would need.

Risata

2007-07-05T20:28:00.000-05:00

Yarn in the mail, Yippee! Knit Picks has a new yarn, its called Risata. The fiber content is 42% Cotton, 39% Superwash Wool, 13% Polymide, 6% Elite. It is a fingering weight and is very squishy. I ordered these 2 balls as samples to see what it was like. I have a hat pattern that calls for fingering weight, that I may give a try, or of coarse there are always socks. I have not really knit with cotton sock yarn as of yet. I have cast on a pair with the Sockotta brand, (which is similar in fiber content) but that is the extent of it. I am interested to see how I will like this yarn. I hope everyone is having a wonderful holiday week. I only had Wednesday off, but it does break the week up nicely. I managed to work on my tank a bit and intend to keep moving along with it. I will want to wear it yet this year ; )

Other big news, I have applied for a job with a new yarn store opening here. The shop name is "Boucle" and it has announced that it will open this month. I am supposed to have an interview next week. I am pretty excited about that. Everyone please wish me luck!

OK, on to the yarn.

Birdbath Blues

2007-06-30T17:42:00.000-05:00

Sorry for the late post this week, work got the best of me. I have been tinkering about trying to teach myself how to knit, left handed, or Continental . I can now say I am feeling pretty darn comfortable with it. When I first started, I was ready to give up. It is tough to learn a beloved hobby in a different way than what you are comfortable with. I love knitting and when I first attempted knitting with my left hand, I was hating it and thought "PHOOEY!". Our guild is offering a mini class on colorwork, done with a different color in both hands of coarse, so I was determined to keep trying. I started a bag (that I will felt) today with these 2 special yarns. I will knit the whole thing using the Continental method. The lighter yarn is my very first skein of handspun yarn. Yippee, I have been wanting to make something with it. By felting the bag, I will hide the imperfections of my first handspun, and also the uneven tension of my left handed knitting ; ) Anyway the second grey blue skein is one I hand-dyed using a natural indigo plant dyebath. It was done last fall and was my first dying experience, led by my wonderful local guild members. I am holding the two colors together as I knit. I think it will make a nice bag. I plan to add some stripes along the way. Not sure what they will be as of yet.

Took a little Spin

2007-06-21T21:43:00.000-05:00

Well last Saturday I felt the urge to spin, so I set up on the deck at about 11 a.m. and I spent 3 hours out there spinning away the day. It was so nice, I also set up my Ipod music system and caught up on some knitting podcasts to boot. I finished a full bobbin of some pretty creepy fiber. Well it had been even creepier yet, but a guild friend helped me add to it with her drum carder so it is at least a bit fun to spin. The fiber was a gift from my mother for Christmas last year so I must spin it. Not sure what I will make with it, as I think there will be quite a bit. Perhaps a felted bag, as it definitely is not next to skin quality.

The color is nothing special either. I may ply it with a dark purple? Who knows.
Here is a peek of the singles on the bobbin.

Long Time no See!

2007-06-13T08:54:00.000-05:00

Well I am back, and have missed posting my Friday Fiber PrOn. I am saddened to report that we had a funeral in our family. We were traveling back and forth for the few weekends before the end and I just couldn't take the time to post about fiber during that time. My father in law, whom I knitted the birthday socks for, passed away. As heartbreaking and difficult as it has been for the family, we realize what a blessing it is, that God has called him home. Cancer is a nasty beast and the fight is not an easy one. I am honored to report that even though he didn't get to wear his birthday socks here on earth, that he was buried in them and so will have them on permanently ; )

So on to some fibery goodness, or perhaps not so GOOD. This week I will share the progress I have made on my summer tank. I am knitting it from Bamboozle by Crystal Palace using their own pattern. http://www.straw.com/cpy/patterns/bamboozle-cable_shell.html
I am sorry to report that this yarn has not been a friendly one to work with. It is so easily snagged and I am afraid that the very first time I wear it, I will have loose threads pulled out everywhere. The yarn has 7 ply's and they are hardly even twisted together. Fiber content is 55% Bamboo, 24% Cotton and 21% Elastic. The yarn has a bit of a sheen and it was difficult to get some good quality pictures. I took about 10 shots and these are the best of the bunch. I tried flash and no flash, no flash seemed to work the best. I am not too happy with the way the fabric has a roll at the hemline, trying to figure out what I will do about that???? Any suggestions?

The tank in the pattern appears to have a slight roll, but nothing like mine. Perhaps it will block or wash out? Fingers crossed. I do not want to be disappointed in my first real wearable, but I have a feeling it is headed in that direction.

It's Just Too Good to Use!

2007-05-17T22:38:00.000-05:00

I purchased this Lorna's Laces very soon after I began my first sock and it has been sitting in my stash calling to me ever since. However, I just can't bring myself to use it, believing it is much too special to use on just any socks. I am saving it until I find my perfect sock pattern or style. I haven't perfected my sock knitting as of yet and I don't want to use this yarn until I am sure the socks will come out JUST RIGHT!

Birthday Socks

2007-05-10T17:58:00.000-05:00

I wanted to share this week the special sock project I have been working on for my father in law, whom is struggling with lung cancer right now. I just finished them today and my husband is going for a visit this weekend. I am afraid time is short and precious these days. It was his birthday this past Monday so I finished them at a perfect time. Here is a personal letter that I will include along with his socks.

Dear Dad,
I wanted to make you this pair of socks as my way of letting you know how very special you are to me. You are, you know! I only regret that I didn’t begin them sooner but I am glad that I finished them just in time for a birthday gift. I wish I was there to give them to you in person but I know that you will understand, that it is difficult for me to get the time off from my new job.

As I sat and knitted each and every stitch, thoughts and prayers for you were on my mind. I hope they will warm your feet the way you have warmed my heart with many memorable moments.
Making the socks gave me the time to remember some of the wonderful things, that make you, YOU!

Like how you used to butter Mandy’s toast and then pop it back into the toaster, so it got all nice and melted. Like the huge honorable impression you have made on my boy’s lives (and that includes Jim). Like listening to your deep calming voice, sing gently to all of the little grandchildren. Like looking up at you sitting up so high in the cab of your tractor, when lunch was brought out to the field. Like how the dust left smudges of dirt on your face, after a hard days work. Like how totally handsome you looked on Jim’s and my wedding day.
Like the strong look I saw on your face every time I kissed you on the cheek. Like the wonderful way you took care of mom when she was sick and really needed you…

You are an amazing man and I am truly blessed to have you in my life. I love you so much Dad.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Handspun Checkers

2007-05-03T22:17:00.000-05:00

I will start off by announcing, I have quit my new job at Hobby Lobby and have moved on to another new job. I will start on Monday working for a community residential service, that provides care for people with disabilities. I think this job is much more about who I am. I have been a care giver all of my life, and for some strange reason, I thought a change would be fun. I knew I didn't want to sit in an office all day so that was out. I chose retail. Well I have discovered that retail is definitely not for me. I think I will be much more fulfilled in this new position. I will keep you posted, I am so looking forward to my happiness coming back. Hobby Lobby was draining me completely. I just hated it so much.

Anyway, onto the yarn PrOn for the week. I am calling this new handspun yarn "King Me!" because of coarse the black and red reminds me of, a game of checkers.

I really love how the yarn came together and think it will make a perfect hat and scarf set for my new wool winter coat. I can't wait to work with it, It is my best handspun yet. It seems to have a perfect twist, not to loose, not too tight. It is for the most part, a worsted weight yarn.

360 yards and it weighs in at 10 1/2 oz. or 296 gr.

Bamboozle

2007-04-27T09:01:00.000-05:00

Today's yarn sort of sums up how I am feeling these days, BAMBOOZLED!

First off, I just HATE HATE HATE my new job and can't wait to find another. There are some medical issues going on in our family right now, that are causing us much sadness. To top it all off, my oldest son got into a bit of a crash last night. He is just 16 and a new driver. He says he reached for a bag of chips on the passenger seat and side swiped a parked car. YIKES! He is pretty shaken up, but nobody was hurt so I am very thankful. I absolutely believe that is exactly what happened, as he doesn't own a cell phone, it was supper hour and when I arrived and told him to get into my car, he went to his to get the leftover chips ; ) Kids, you gotta love them. I feel pretty sick about the expensive lesson he will learn but that is the best thing we can do for him. I bet he will be a much better driver from now on.

Anyway now on to the Yarn PrOn. I recently purchased this yarn intending to make a tank from it. The tank is nice and simple with a cable running up the front.

Hobby Lobby Update

2007-04-25T12:03:00.000-05:00

I said in my last post that Hobby Lobby had it's up's and downs and that I thought I would enjoy it for the most part, once I was broken in.
Let me rephrase that. I HATE my new job and am currently looking for a new one ; )
I won't go into details here, but there are many factors involved and it just isn't a pleasant atmoshpere.
Wish me luck on my hunt, I am already persuing a few options. More details later ; )
In the meantime, knitting is helping to keep me sane.

Handspun Black

2007-04-20T07:38:00.000-05:00

On the retreat I attended last weekend I was able to finish a bobbin of black fiber with little silk throw-ins. It is nice and I can't wait to ply it with some red. I Have a spinning demo with the guild group this weekend in Whapeton. I think I will do some plying there and hopefully will finish it up this weekend, so I can get the twist set and perhaps finished yarn for next week.

In case anyone is interested, my new job at Hobby Lobby has had it's ups and downs, but I think I will enjoy it for the most part once I am adjusted and in the know.

On to the yarn PrOn... The pictures didn't turn out as I wanted, I think the black was absorbing the light? I just couldn't get a nice black out in the sunshine.

Sockotta in a Dish

2007-04-13T08:50:00.000-05:00

This has got to be a quick post, as I am headed out to a crafty retreat this morning. I plan to knit and spin the weekend away, but there will be scrappers and card makers there as well.

So here I present my first skein of a cotton/wool blend, that I intend to use for some fun summer socks. I can't wait to start them, but I am in the middle of a pair of socks for my Father-in-law, so they must wait in line.

Sorry Fiber Folks

2007-04-07T10:41:00.000-05:00

I was sucked into a project of another kind this week so there will be no fibery goodness to share but hopefully you will all enjoy this form of art entertainment.

A friend of mine asked me to make a collage for a book cover, she intends to give as a gift. The recipient has recently discovered canoeing and the book will be pertaining to that.

I struggled a bit with this project as collage is a very individual thing, sometimes difficult to appreciate, and I was aware of that the whole time I was working on it. I can have an odd sense of humor when creating collage, but this theme did not lead me in that direction, so I hope I am safe and it will be well received.

Also Collage can be difficult when working with a subject that you haven't chosen yourself. For me anyway, I must let the collage sort of speak to me and build it's self. I did struggle with this one as it wasn't talking to me much ; ) I am not perfectly happy with it's outcome, but at the same time, not hating it either. I am always pretty critical of my own art, but on the other hand, I will often be so tickled with my bizarre outcomes that I must drag everyone in the house to my studio, to admire my handy work. That didn't happen with this piece : (

So feel free to tell me what you think of it.

Front Cover

Back Cover

Total Collage

Hippity-Hoppity, Easter Bunnies on his way

2007-04-05T09:23:00.000-05:00

Well today is officially my last day of being a "childcare provider". So for a big Easter send off, I made up these cute treat bags for my little sweeties. I just had to share them here.

As much as I will miss the fun little projects, cuddles and stories from my little ones, I know that I need this time for myself, before I burnout completely. I start my new job at Hobby Lobby, on Monday and am filled with excitement and oh so nervous.

I will also, take this opportunity to wish you all a "Happy Easter!"

Dragonscale Fingerless Gloves

2007-04-03T17:48:00.000-05:00

I had so much fun knitting the footies with my own handspun that I had to keep going.

I just knew, that this yarn was telling me it wanted to be fingerless gloves.

I used a pattern from my 2007 knitting calendar and I really like it. I did put my own spin on it, by doing an extra repeat and I made them a bit longer at the top as well. They are so cozy and cute and I will have a hard time parting with them. But I promised them to my daughter. They really aren't my colors anyway as I don't care for pink. I will just have to spin some more yarn and make another pair in my colors. Photo of my daughter happily modeling them for me.

Handspun Footies

2007-03-28T14:56:00.000-05:00

I am just tickled with the outcome of my first knitting efforts from my very own hand spun yarn. In case you all forgot, I dyed the pink and turquoise fiber in these socks myself.

If interested you can look back to past posts to see the progression of these socks.

I was a bit worried about how nicely it would knit because it was most definitely a thick and thin yarn. But it knitted nicely, and it all evened out, just as my guild friends told me it would.

Yarn Barf Surprise

2007-03-22T11:30:00.000-05:00

Recently I have mentioned a purchase of Lang Jawoll Sport weight yarn I ordered a few weeks back, well yesterday I chose it from my stash and I began a new pair of socks with it.

Anyway, shortly after I purchased the yarn I was fiddling with the ball and attempting to find the end of the center pull ball. Whenever I have tried to pull the center out of the middle of sock yarn I get a big wad of YARN BARF ; ) But along with the yarn barf, this time I got a surprise! A nice little spool of reinforcing fiber. I was so tickled to find it, just like finding the little prize in a box of Cracker Jack. I had heard about these little surprise spools, but had never experienced it before, and I didn't even know this was one of the brands that contained the extra spool. So when I felt something hard in the middle of the ball and pulled it out, a little smile immediately emerged onto my face. I am still excited about it, but wonder how difficult it will be to hold along with the regular yarn, It seems quite fine.

I am a bit ahead of schedule, but here is my contribution for Yarn PrOn Friday.

DD Sock remake

2007-03-21T14:29:00.000-05:00

Well I am just a sock making machine! I finished a second pair of socks for DD. I had made her a pair for Christmas and experimented with a different kind of heel (Band Heel) and it was not a nice heel at all. So because they were uncomfortable for her to wear, I have made another. Each of the kids had chosen their own yarn for their socks, so I opted to use up the little bit of leftover from the original socks, along with a complimenting solid color. I really like how they came out. I hope she likes them too, Or maybe I don't, because if she doesn't, I will have to wear them ; ) I am wearing the original pair, even though the heel is a bit uncomfy. I certainly can't let a good pair of socks go to waste.

I have already cast on a new pair for myself, with a fun sport weight yarn.

Pictures of that at a later date.

Big News

2007-03-16T10:23:00.000-05:00

Well first off, let me announce that I have recently quit my daycare job of 17 years. WOW what a change in my life. My kids are mostly grown and getting their own jobs so it is time for me to spread my wings and do something I will really enjoy. I have taken a job at Hobby Lobby!

I am so very excited, I can't tell you. My wonderful guild lady friends are already suggesting that I will need to get the yarn department stocked up with better fun yarns. This may not be beyond possibility, as I have been assigned to the yarn and fabric department to start out ; ) How fun to be able to play with yarn all day! I know, I know, straightening shelves is not quite the same as knitting, but hey, I will gladly make the sacrifice ; ) I will get purchase discounts and the benefits are wonderful too boot.

OK now for prOn Friday. I have been so stressed this week with anticipation and having to give notice to my parents, that I just have some finished socks to share. See more stitch definition by clicking to enlarge the image.

Fibery Friday

2007-03-09T14:12:00.000-06:00

Well it was a hard choice today. I am struggling with a few knitting projects and will likely be ripping back a sock project that I started with my own handspun. BOO HOO I think the yarn is telling me it wants to be fingerless gloves ; )

Anyway, I thought I would just grab a few balls of Debbie Bliss from my stash, I will be using it soon, for a couple upcoming hat projects. Our guild has a yearly challenge and this year we are making chemo hats. Not just ordinary beanies, but something special. I have a few nice patterns picked out and these 2 wonderful cotton blends that will be ultra soft and special to a bald head ; )

The pink is a Cotton/Cashmere blend and the lavender is a Cotton/Angora blend.

Blizzard's and the Burning Bush

2007-03-02T10:50:00.000-06:00

It was a blizzardy weekend last week and I was able to spin this whole bobbin on my retreat. This weekend it is another very snowy one here in MN, so to warm things up a bit, I present a bobbin full of "Burning Bush". I received this fiber from my cousin for Christmas. It was a Wool Top pencil roving with a very long staple, took me a bit to get used to it but it spun up quite nicely. I hope to make a scarf and hat set with it. Still not sure how I will ply it. I am now thinking perhaps of adding the black silk blend fiber from a few posts back. The second picture was taken outside, hence the little white flecks of snow. I think picture one is a more accurate color.

Burning Bush

Fiber Retreat

2007-02-26T09:50:00.000-06:00

WOW! I had a fabulous time at a fiber retreat, in Crookston MN. Lots of stuff going on, tons of wheels to see, beautiful quilting being done, knitting and A bit of weaving too.

I will share a few pictures of the event. I won't hesitate to attend again but man was I tired when I got home ; ) I don't sleep well if at all, when I am away from home. Each night there were a few late night owls to hang out with and early risers to get up with too, so I had company when I couldn't sleep. There were things like fiber and hand spun yarns for sale. I resisted the temptation. There were tons of books to look at and projects all laid out for show and tell. Lots of lovely work being done.

Here we have a couple women from the Brainerd area.

Betty and Donna, Spinning and knitting

Molly Spinning

Ruth Weaving

Lovely Reeves Saxony Wheel

Stripping wool fabric for weaving, see the additional large workroom

Yarn CAKE!

2007-02-22T09:17:00.000-06:00

So I promised you a picture of the yarn I wound with my new Strauch ball winder.

In the mean time I have been trying to explain to my children why it wasn't really a ball. They kept arguing with me about it not being a ball at all! Well I said they actually call it a "CAKE". Then why is the contraption called a ball winder and not a CAKE winder???? hehehe Kids... Now I can't wait to knit with it. I am hoping to cast on for some fingerless gloves this weekend at the fiber retreat I will be attending.

Well Here it is, the CAKE I made with my new ball winder. I think it is just so pretty and fun to look at.

Magic Stripes

2007-02-21T08:50:00.000-06:00

I started this pair of socks last fall, it was only my second pair, but it got put onto the back burner because I then decided to make Christmas socks for my whole family.

I am glad these are finally done and they fit very nicely. I am very proud of the fact that I matched the stripes up perfectly, so that I have a matched pair. For the second sock, I had to wind off a nice little ball to get to the pattern repeat and even had to splice in again near the toe as I ran out of yarn.

Ball Winder and Swift

2007-02-20T09:46:00.000-06:00

Since I have now spun 3 whole skeins of my own yarn, I decided I needed a ball winder.
I have had my eye on the Strauch Ball Winder and I ordered it a few weeks ago. I wound my first wonderful Cake on it this weekend.

Today I will share a picture of the ball winder itself. I love the look of it. Seems like such a simple gadget but it does such impressive work. I am so happy to have ordered it.
Oh and the tabletop swift that my DD made for me in wood shop worked like a charm! So being a proud mom, I will show off her handy work also.

If you are wanting to see the yarn cake, pop back for a look later this week!

Friday PrOn Photo Shoot

2007-02-16T09:17:00.000-06:00

Well it is socks again! I know I am rather boring.
Look below for some wonderful fiber PrOn if you want some excitement!
I am such a newbie knitter, that I don't knit much other than socks at this point. But I do intend to push myself to knit some sort of a top, this summer.
I will be showing a knitting friend how to do magic loop this next weekend, and so I wanted to get at least one sock to the point of picking up the gusset. That is the most confusing part, I think. This yarn that I cast on yesterday is interesting in that it is a confetti pattern and I have not knit with that style before. I like the little blotches of color it is making. It is a yarn I purchased last August on our family Vacation to Canada. Looks like it will be a nice pair of socks.

Fibery Delight

2007-02-13T08:37:00.000-06:00

Oh what a fun bunch of mail I have gotten lately. Yesterday my Strauch ball winder and some beautiful fiber arrived. Last Friday I also got lovely fibers in the mail. I will certainly have plenty of fun fiber to spin when I go on retreat next weekend. I can't wait to get my hands on it.

I ordered this first fiber from the woolery along with my ball winder, it is 8 oz. of wool top called "Brick"

Next up is some fiber I received for Christmas, from my Cousin, It is 8 oz's of a pencil roving, it is called "Burning Bush"

I am thinking of plying these first 2 fibers together once they are spun???

Next is 8 oz's of a lovely Blue Alpaca/Glitz blend I ordered from the Little Barn, it is simply called "Country Blue"

Last is this 8oz's of Black wool/silk blend, again from the Little Barn, they call it , "Extrodinary Throwsters Tweed Black"

This Black is the same type of fiber I used for my Blue Jeans and Roses Skein.

I think I will be wanting to use some of this black to make a scarf. I have a new wool Jacket that I picked up at the thrift store and it needs a dark scarf. We will see what it spins up like.

Christmas socks are done

2007-02-09T20:45:00.000-06:00

Well I finally finished the last of my Christmas socks, today. Darling Hubby will wear his socks tomorrow. It has been terrible cold, here in MN the last few weeks and I wish I would have had these socks done sooner. My hubby is a letter carrier and he has never had a pair of wool socks. I think he may be surprised.
I can't wait to hear how he likes them, after wearing them out in the cold for a day.
He told me when I made him try them on, that they were too nice to wear to work, that he would only wear them around the house.
I said, "the hell you will!"
hehehe I am sure he will be begging me for more shortly.
They look a bit loose on his legs, in the picture but they really don't seem loose when I slipped them on him ; )

So here they are:

Sunshine and Smiles

2007-02-08T09:37:00.000-06:00

Well the sun is shining so beautifully this morning, it is making for a happy day, even though it is frigid cold here in Minnesota. I took advantage of the great lighting and have more pictures of my newest handspun yarn. I am still loving this yarn and can't wait to knit it up. I am excited to share the pretty skein with my guild group next week and then I am free to cast on.

The stats on this yarn are:
460 yards
166 grams
14 WPI, Which puts this yarn in the DK category.
(however there are many thinner area's in the skein and I think overall, I would call this yarn Sport weight) It should make some great socks. I think sport weight is going to be my favorite sock yarn choice. However, I have not made enough socks yet to be sure.

Blue Jeans and Roses

2007-02-05T10:49:00.000-06:00

Well I plied my yarn this weekend and it is so nice. Of coarse I am smitten simply because it is my first color play ; )
I have already named the colorway "Blue Jeans and Roses"

It is not completely dry so the pictures are just casual shots of it hanging around. hehe
I will twist it into a proper skein later in the week and put up some additional pics.
I just couldn't contain myself and had to share.

Originally it was going to be a pair of felted slippers, but the yarn is much to fine for that. I think it will be perfect for socks. I will give all the details of weight, yardage and WPI... in the next post.

Spinning the Blues Away

2007-02-02T08:40:00.000-06:00

Well I am so in love with how this blue fiber has come out. I am ready to ply this now, to that aqua/pink from a week or so ago. I am so excited to see the surprise outcome. I am sure it will end up thick and thin as I just let this wool/silk do it's own thing. Anyone got any comments or predictions on how these 2 will look together? I have never plied 2 different yarns together yet. OH the suspense is killing me.

Silk Trash

2007-01-28T13:33:00.000-06:00

WOWSA I am having fun. I am such a newbie spinner and have not experienced a lot of different fibers. Average wool and Mohair, to be exact. This new wool/silk blend is quite exciting to me. What is making it so fun to spin, is the fact that the silk trash makes it very easy for me to except and love the slubs. They just sort of spin into nice little blobs of silky color.

Gosh, I am so technical, aren't I?

What is the fiber you ask?
Well, I recently ordered from http://www.littlebarninc.com/default.asp
I had a specific project in mind; somehow I accidentally got the wrong color, but so happy I did.

I ordered this:
http://www.littlebarninc.com/details.asp?ID=285&CategoryID=6&StartNum=31&OrderBy=&Keywords=&ShowMe=10

They sent the blue version instead. I love the color and I love the slubby silk bits thrown into it. As of right now, I am planning to ply it with the pink and teal BFL that I recently spun and I think I will make the Fuzzy Feet Pattern from Knitty.

http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEwinter02/PATTfuzzyfeet.html

We will see, when all is said and done.
But now I will most certainly make another order for the black and may even have to have the green also ; )

I have also been inspired to call my mother up and tell her not to throw away any silk trash from her cross stitch projects. I will hopefully acquire a nice little stash of silk threads I can throw into my own fiber. FUN, FUN, FUN!

Beginnings and Ends

2007-01-26T09:13:00.000-06:00

Well I am just beginning a new project. The Wavey Cable Lace Cap from Elann. I worked the first 8 rounds of 5 by 2 rib last night. I only had one false start so that is good. It is definitely different to work with this stretchy yarn. I have really, had to loosen up my knitting. Feels strange. Now, onto the lace part of the cap. I am somewhat terrified about it. I have not really done any lace projects before. I tried a dishcloth once with a few yarnovers and what a mess that was. I think I restarted many times and still didn't get it right. I am so bad at fixing mistakes and also such a scatter brain when knitting a pattern. I must have complete quiet and concentration. That is highly unlikely around here ; ) Hopefully, if I take my time and do one row at a time, I will not have to rip out and begin again. So here you have it, the rib ; )
Click pictures for a closer view.

I am also hoping to see the end of a pair of socks for my sweet hubby. His Birthday was Wednesday, Shucks I'm late again! Oh well, he understands. So here is a nice close up of the stitches and one of the socks done. The yarn is Patons Kroy sock yarn and I must say that I love it. It seems nice and thick and this yarn has a nice heather to it. A bit of blue lurking in the brown. I think this is my nicest sock yet. I am learning how to eliminate the holes at the gusset and it is getting better all the time. Hopefully I will have the last sock done by next week.

Esprit

2007-01-19T11:19:00.000-06:00

Well it is PrOn Friday again. Hey this is kinda fun! Anyway, I am planning a chemo hat for a challenge project within my local guild.

Here is a link to one of the hats I am planning to make.
http://www.elann.com/ShowFreePattern.asp?Id=184024

I ordered the recommended yarn for it, from http://www.elann.com/frames.asp
I purchased 2 colors, one is a lavender shade, and the other, kind of an indigo.
The yarn is 98.3 % cotton and 1.7 % elastic. I was very surprised at how stretchy 1.7 % made it.
I wonder how it will knit up? I will likely have the hat beginnings to share next week.
I am planning to use the indigo first.
Here is the PrOn!

Purple People Eater Socks

2007-01-18T11:03:00.000-06:00

Well my son's socks are done! Not half bad considering all the little snags they have in them.

My son has size 13 shoes and these socks are big! I don't think I will be making my kid's socks again for some time. I want many more pairs for myself. I only have one so far. My hubby also deserves nice socks, his first pair is already on the needles.

Here are the Monster socks.

Purse Rescue

2007-01-17T08:37:00.000-06:00

The other night I stopped into the local coffee shop where our fibers guild meets once a month.
I ordered a special coffee and while waiting for them to make it, I happened to see a little felted bag, in a box labeled lost and found. I asked the woman behind the counter about it, saying that perhaps it was left behind from one of the guild members. She said, oh please take it if you want it, that whole box is going to the thrift shop tomorrow. So I rescued the poor little thing.

I knew someone had put some time into it, and even though it was a little pathetic looking, I thought I could fix it up to make a cute purse. So home we went. I quickly sewed a gusset into the bottom to give it some shape. It had been just a flat pouch. It had a single short I-cord handle, I didn't like it at all. I just chopped it off, I stitched up the area where it was attached with a few pieces of scrap wool yarn. I threw it in to the wash to re-felt it. The whole bag got smaller and just the size I like. I went to Jo-ann's Fabric and bought a cute set of handles that were on sale for $3.99.

It is now a cute little purse. The pink in it is not quite me, but I do like the size and the handles. I am glad I rescued the little thing. Now we will see if one of my guild members recognizes it, in it's transformed shape. It measures 8 1/2 inches wide by about 2 1/2 fat and 10 inches high including handles.

Isn't it sweet?

Friday Yarn PrOn...

2007-01-12T07:35:00.000-06:00

What is that you ask? Well, I have joined a netring, which requires me to share at least one juicy shot of something fiber, on each Friday.
Hopefully I will be able to keep up and it will keep me inspired to knit faster ; )
It will be nice to keep my blog updated for all of you, also.
Oh yeah, for you family and friends who might be interested in seeing other blogs about knitting or spinning, check out the right sidebar for the rings. You can click on Random and it will take you to other blogs with fun things to look at. Try it, you'll like it!

Anyway as I have mentioned, I am still trying to finish up some Christmas socks. My son chose this yarn so that I could make him socks in the (Vikings) team colors. It is the first time I have attempted to change colors in a pair of socks. It has gone well.
The yarn I am using is (SISU) I purchased it in Canada this past summer. I think it is a German brand. I can tell you that I have not enjoyed this yarn one bit. It has been very splitty, causing me numerous issues where I have accidentally grabbed a piece of the stitch below. Being a new knitter, sometimes I have remedied the situation on the next round, and sometimes I have not or have made a bigger mess.

So without further ado I present the "PrOn"

2007 - Happy New Year!

2007-01-05T16:07:00.000-06:00

Well it is a new year, I hope to make it a memorable one. It has got to be better than last year.
We had a tough year and I am glad it is behind us.
We will still have some tough issues to deal with. Darling Hubby's father has been diagnosed with cancer and I sense there will be some sadness to deal with.

I just had some medical testing of my own done this week. I think all tests are turning out well. I had fallen in the middle of the night the Thursday after Christmas. I got up to take some cold medicine and didn't feel dizzy or unusual, but I evidently fell and hit my head. I woke up next to our granite topped rolling cart, very dizzy and confused. I managed to slide down the steps to get to my hubby, and then I laid on the family room floor feeling sick to my stomach with a terrible headache. Anyway, after testing, nothing has been discovered. I wonder if it was caused by an over the counter medication (airborne) I had never taken it before and had taken some before bed.

Goals for this year: I hope to become a much better spinner and knitter. I purchased a spinning wheel the end of last year and have just begun to explore the possibilities. The creative juices are flowing. I look forward to knitting something with my own handspun yarn!

I need to finish up a pair of socks that was meant to be a Christmas present for my son. Also a pair of socks on the needles for my hubby's birthday this month.
I have begun a new spinning project, not sure what the yarn will become. Perhaps felted slippers?
The fiber is BFL (Blue Faced Leicester) that I hand dyed myself last year while I was waiting for my wheel to arrive.

Here is the yarn in it's beginning stage.

Holiday Happiness

2006-12-25T21:24:00.000-06:00

I have not been around for a while, I have been working on creating gifts galore. Well Christmas has come and gone. I almost finished all of my gifts. Darn I have one pair of socks left to finish. I wrapped them half done. DS understood and hopefully I can finish them in a couple of weeks. I am so relieved to be done with the crafting dash.
I was very happy to have finished spinning a skein of yarn for my cousin who learned to knit shortly after I did.
We are great knitting companions. I will share pictures of the skein I made for her, at the end of this entry. It isn't really soft yarn, but a fun heathery color of purple and I think it will make something fun to felt. The skein ended up being over 300 yards, so a nice size.

Now for the goodies I received this year.
I must have been a very good girl. My wonderful cousin and knitting companion, bought me some lovely red and brown wool top, pencil roving. Can't wait to play with it.
Also the book "Twisted Sisters Sock workbook" Lots of fun stuff in there.

My oldest son, bought me a fiber dying book I had on my list.
My other son, bought me some cedar chips to store with my fiber stash and a certificate to the local yarn shop.
My DD bought me some nice jammies.
DH must really love me, Cuz, I got an iPod video from him and a knitting calendar, and certificates to the local yarn shop also.
I am so excited about all of my fun new toys and can't wait to play and enjoy the new year.

I made YARN!

2006-11-21T19:47:00.000-06:00

Wow, I was slow in finishing this up, but I plied this past weekend and I loved doing it and how it came out.

The blue bits that I spread throughout the yarn are not showing up real well, but I am pretty sure that once I knit and felt this into a bag, that it will come through.

I am very pleased with the quality of the twist. It seems to be nicely balanced. I was worried about that before plying. I can't wait to begin another fun project.

Fiber info:

A light gray fiber that is a Mystery wool blend from a local farm http://www.geocities.com/joan_ellison/

I got over 300 yards of yarn, weighing about 270 grams.

Not sure if this is good or what I should strive for since this is my first yarn.

I think for the most part the yarn is about a worsted weight, but has some thick and thin area's for sure.

Now for the unveiling

Band Heel Sock

2006-11-16T08:31:00.000-06:00

Well I finished another sock last night and will cast on for the second one today.

This is a different kind of heel, not sure I like it or not. It seems to make a bit of an odd bump under the bottom of the heel. Wondering if that will be uncomfortable. There is no gusset, once you are done with the heel, your stitch count is already back to the original number that you cast on. Interesting!

This pair is for my daughter. This sock is a nice snug fit. It is my first pair on size 0 needles, I will have to try more on this size.

So have a look and let me know what you think, if you have any experience with this style of heel and have any comments, I would love to hear about it.

Sunny Days Dishcloth

2006-11-15T21:58:00.000-06:00

Well the sunny days are going to be less and less frequent now. The holidays are upon us and I don't seem to be in a very festive mood.
Lots to think about around here.

Anyway, I am happy with this bright and sunny cloth. I should block it to even it out a bit, I am giving it as an X-mas gift. I will need to try and get another one knit up, to go with it. I have made good progress on my socks. Finished one today for my DD and am ready to begin the heel on a sock for my hubby.
I will need to get over to the yarn shop for some more Addi Turbo's this weekend. I think I want to buy a 40 in. number 1, So that I can do the final pair for my oldest son, 2 at a time, cuff down.

Here is the cloth.

One pair down

2006-11-10T14:35:00.000-06:00

Well I am on the Christmas sock count down. I wanted to make my 3 children socks for Christmas and I bought the yarn in August, but have waited till just recently to get going.
Now I must hurry! Actually, I wanted to get hubby's done also, but his may have to wait. His Birthday is in January ; )

So here is the first pair. Luckily this son, only wears short socks.
The other 2 will want longer ones.
I am happy with how these turned out, however my original intent had been to make the heel gray as well, but I forgot until a bit past the heel and I wasn't going back
We are going to Pipestone this weekend to visit family and I will get to spend time with a friend and I will show her how to knit. That should be tons of fun. "Hi Joyce"

Toe Up sock progress

2006-10-11T10:08:00.000-05:00

Well after many false starts, these socks are finally going along smoothly. Holy Cats were they quite the challenge, my cousin and I spent 2 full Sundays piddling with these socks trying to get them started. Then I still went home without them on the needles. I managed to get them going the following Monday. Whew! I think I have it mastered now, at least till I get to the heels ; )
Anyway since I mentioned them yesterday, I thought I would share. I am quite proud of them really, as I hand dyed this yarn myself! Yes the yarn started out a natural white and I dyed it with my guild group. Very Cool, Huh?
I am feeling very accomplished this year, with all of the new things I have learned.

Next Fiber Please...

2006-10-10T14:42:00.000-05:00

Having so much fun with my wheel, that I have finished off the green fiber and have begun on some wool I just purchase last weekend at Joanne's in Pelican Rapids MN.
It is a lovely light grey heathery fiber. I am adding little bits of blue to it here and there.
Planning to use this for the main color of a large bag.
I love the color, so natural and soft.

The fiber came in a nice big 1 lb ball, pictured next to my wheel, also a shot of the begun bobbin.

OH yeah and my 2 at once socks are coming along splendidly! Can hardly wait to finish them.

It's Here!

2006-10-05T20:39:00.000-05:00

My wheel is here and I have already spun on it. I don't have the hang of keeping it all even, but that will come.
It's very fun and I can see myself, spinning, spinning, spinning myself silly.
I plan to make a felted purse with this green and some blue, and purple.
So here is a look at my first yarn and my beautiful wheel.

I think there could be a problem here...

2006-10-02T09:53:00.000-05:00

HMMM, several of my groups, have suggested we show pictures of our fiber stash. Well thinking I didn't have much of a stash before, but realize differently now. I have acquired quite a bit of fiber, in just this last week.
I think I had better be careful here. This could be a very slippery slope. What have I gotten myself into? It is a little hard to see the fiber as the picture came out kind of dark, but the space of the entertainment center where the stash is sitting is 5 Ft wide, so you can get an idea of the space it is in. Scary huh??? I am supposed to be saving my pennies to buy a big screen TV for the new entertainment center, but hey the fiber looks good there. Do you think my hubby would mind???
Oh yeah then of coarse I forgot about the XL Ziploc bag of fiber in the basement.

I can't believe my eyes!

2006-10-01T19:19:00.000-05:00

This was sooooo much fun. I am completely hooked on dying. It is tons of fun to see what happens when you experiment. I am wishing that the turquoise color had been green, but I didn't have any green dye powder and just added colors that I had straight from the jar. I was a bit afraid to start mixing colors, since I have not dyed much before. But with these lovely colors, I don't think I will be afraid anymore. They seem magical. I still might tear the blue section out and slap in some green. I was hoping the blue, would have been more of a denim blue. Here we have a front and back shot and one all twisted up. I just love what happens when you twist the colors all together.
Now to find out what happens when I attempt to make yarn!

Step into my Laboratory...

2006-09-30T18:06:00.000-05:00

Well still no Spinning wheel! I contacted the company and they thought I would have it by next week. So I am still entertaining myself by dying yet more fiber.
I purchased a LB. of White Bluefaced Leicester Roving, to play with. I have heard this is wonderful roving to spin for a beginner so hopefully I am not going to ruin this.
I did tear the huge rope of roving in half length wise so I still have a lot left over, just in case.
I am using Procion dye, which my cousin Karen and I purchased together to dye fabric with the crazy intent to dye fabric, that was when we were going to bead dolls. Well we have moved on.
So must use this dye up.
I know from when I dyed my wool yarn with the guild ladies that this dye must be steamed.
I have read about women using jars to dye in, I also saw a woman who dyed with jars in her crockpot.
So here I am trying my own experiment with jars in my canning kettle. I have no idea what it will turn out like, but hey it was fun to play with it.
I want to show a picture of the lovely soft fiber in its lovely white condition, and now the roving in the dye pot. I will share pictures of the outcome once it is done. There is more blue than is visible at this point. I did add a tad bit of blue to the top of a solid magenta red jar after I snapped this picture.

Still Dying

2006-09-26T10:48:00.000-05:00

Well the spinning wheel still isn't here! I can hardly stand the torture.
Anyway, I dyed some fleece that was given to me by some of the guild members. It has been washed but still has bits of Veg. Matter in it.
I used green food color and Kool-aid for this. It was easy and fun. I like that the dye is not a complete coverage and that the darker brown parts hardly took the dye.
Can't wait to see what it looks like spun up, and then what to ply it with??? Oh the possibilities.
I could even ply it with that light grey roving I dyed. I am working towards a large felted bag for carrying my knitting in. I have visions of Lime green, purple and denim together. So we will see.

Before dying and after Pics...

Dyed and went to Heaven

2006-09-24T13:52:00.000-05:00

Well my new spinning wheel still hasn't arrived. BOO HOO. Anyway I have been surfing the web to pass the time, hunting for fiber and dying info...
I came across a wonderful forum specifically for Spinning talk. I love it, if you like spinning, be it with a wheel or a spindle, stop by for a visit and check it out.
http://talk.pixiepurls.com/index.php

So anyway I had some white roving that I received from some very generous guild members, I decided to try dying some of it. I had some rit dye that said it would work for wool, but it sure didn't give me a very intense color. That is OK, I kinda like it. I was going for an indigo, denim color but it turned out a light grey blue color.

Fun, Fun, Fun!

Sock Project X 2 Up

2006-09-22T16:30:00.000-05:00

Well I have been interested in doing 2 socks at once just for the pure enjoyment of having a complete pair at the end of the process. But toe up adds even another element of excitement.
Kitchener closing of the toes is not my favorite thing, and this method gets the toe done first thing, with a nice closure.
So lets hope that the most challenging part, the heel, gives me no trouble ; )

Last night my cousin and I began together, she is my teacher ; ) It took me 3 attempts for each sock to get the cast on right. Learning new things can be tricky!
I used the knitpicks yarn that I hand dyed my self. I am so excited to see how this yarn knits up.

So here is the beginning of 2 socks at once, toe up.
The toes look a bit square at the moment, but I think that is because it is the beginning stage and the way they were squished under the scanner bed.

Old Altered Business

2006-09-17T10:53:00.000-05:00

Well this is an altered book from a RR that I joined well over a year ago and it had been delayed for many months. I finally got this book a bit ago and have now finished it.
This is the last one and it was a little hard to get back into the swing of it, since I have moved on to knitting and spinning art now.

This was a fun theme, It was Anything with Wings. The original artist and owner of the book is a very creative person and she enjoys things that are very unique.
So I was able to be free with my creativity ; )

First spread I titled: it's a Plane
Second spread I titled: Hatchling

Here they are.

I'm a spinner!

2006-09-11T20:33:00.000-05:00

I went on a little shopping trip this past weekend. Hubby took me to the MPLS. area to try out spinning wheels. He is giving me one for our anniversary. I am so excited!
The experience was wonderful. I was so nervous about not being able to do it, but the lady at the shop was very helpful and I actually feel like a spinner now!

I placed my order today for a Majacraft Rose Spinning Wheel and now I will have to wait for it to arrive.
Oh it is going to be pure torture, it could be several weeks before it arrives!

I am the worst at waiting, just like a kid shaking packages at Christmas.

I can't wait to take a picture of my new beauty to post here, so stay tuned.

Sock it to me Baby!

2006-09-08T14:40:00.000-05:00

Well I now have 2 complete pair of socks and I am wearing the green pair today, it feels heavenly.
The Under the Sea colored pair however doesn't feel so good. I used a worsted weight yarn and I can feel the stitches under foot. I am hoping that with a few washes this will disappear.
I don't care for the heaviness of the yarn either. I used a worsted weight as it was my first attempt and I wanted heavier yarn. I will probably give them to my DD. She was begging for them any way.

I can't wait to get more done like the green pair, (sport weight) only with a higher wool content. This pair only had 35% wool. I was going cheap while I learned.

Now to show off my handiwork. First the complete Under the Sea colored socks. Then the wonderful green pair I am wearing today. I am so proud!

Playing with Dye

2006-09-07T14:13:00.000-05:00

Well a few weeks back I went to a dye day with the local fibers guild. I took some natural yarns to dye and I am tickled with the results.

We used natural dyes: Indigo, Thistle, and Marigold for most of it.
But there was a bit of chemical dye for anyone to play with also. I wanted to hand paint some sock yarn so I did. It turned out great if I do say so myself. I tried to twist it up special, like the pro's do, but I guess I need a little practice ; )
I will be starting a pair of socks with it very soon.

Here are the fun results.

I knit a Sock!

2006-08-22T11:59:00.000-05:00

I attempted my first sock on DPN's and I hated the whole process. Now I am using the Magic Loop method and now that I have figured it out, I love it.
My first attempt on DPN's has been ripped out because it was too big and had lots of nasty holes and mistakes.
So I am considering this SOCK my first sock! I have already cast on the second one so that it won't be an orphan.
I have already acquired several skeins of yarn for making socks. Sure wish I could knit faster, or at the very least, have more time to knit. I see tons and tons of lovely lovely hand dyed sock yarn that I am just lusting after.
I think this could be dangerous.

Anyway, here is my first SOCK!

Kids in Hats

2006-08-16T09:29:00.000-05:00

Well here are the finished hats modeled by my 3 sweeties. I had fun trying out 3 different patterns for the kids. Now I am looking forward to finding the perfect hat pattern for myself.

In the mean time I am knitting socks! I can't wait to have a complete pair. I had a wonderful time dying yarn with the Fiber Guild ladies last weekend and will take some pictures of the finished yarn soon.

Bags, Bags, Bags

2006-08-10T09:16:00.000-05:00

Well I have made another felted bag. I love it so much. It is the cutest little purse.
It is only about 8 inches across and 6 inches deep not counting the handle. It is the exact size I was hoping for.

I am also very busily knitting hats and socks. I have made a spuds hat for each of the children for this winter. They turned out great!
I have not completed a full pair of socks yet, but soon, I love knitting socks. I will share pictures soon.

I will share prefelting and after pics of the bag, that way you can get an idea of what happens during the felting process.

Avatar Link

2006-07-22T11:26:00.000-05:00

Needing this Doll Avatar Link, Pardon the interuption.

Holy Moly where have I been?

2006-07-22T10:59:00.000-05:00

Well the answer to that is easy. I have been sucked up into a yarn ball and am trying to knit my way out. hehehe

Honestly I am just so happy that I have learned to knit. It is a very relaxing, portable, enjoyable hobby. I have joined the local knitting and fibers guild and the ladies are delightful.
I think I am getting old!

Oh and I am exploring the idea of spinning my own yarn. I am pretty sure that by the end of the year I will have a spinning wheel.

I have made one complete sock and have ripped it out, as it was big and I wasn't so happy with it. I have more started. Practice makes perfect.
I have just finished another tote purse. I love it and already want to start another.
I have made a hat and my 3 children are fighting over it. I must make more.

Anyway, I will share before and after pictures of my felted bag. I made it patriotic as that is the decor of my living room and I will have it sitting next to my chair most of the time.

Support Dolls

2006-05-21T16:16:00.000-05:00

I made 18 fun support dolls for a custom order. Each one is slightly different and unique. They are a twist off, from my original friendship doll idea. This little doll has it's arms outstretched in a warm embrace. The perfect way to send a hug to a loved one. A fun way to remember and support that special service man or woman.
If you would like one, feel free to contact me. I can personalize your doll with whatever you like.

Knit 1 Purl 2

2006-05-20T23:14:00.000-05:00

Well I have had a busy, busy, busy weekend. I finished making 18 little friendship dolls that are for a custom order. Whew, glad they are done now. I planted the vegetable garden and a few flowers. Great to have that done also. Did a little crafty shopping ; )
Spray painted an iron bed and did this fun collage for a new weekly Challenge.
(Try It Tuesday)
The technique was a fun acrylic painted background. Not sure mine turned out as it was intended?
But I do like the background and had a bunch of fun creating this collage.
It is based on my current obsession to learn about everything Knitting.
The canvas size is 8X10

Mom's are Great!

2006-05-12T09:28:00.000-05:00

If you are a mom take a bow! Have a wonderful Mother's day weekend!

I intend to knit the weekend away. Perhaps make a few ATC's and maybe some beading!
I am hoping for a yarn gift certificate for a giftie ; )
I was scheduled to take a wool spinning class tomorrow and it has been canceled boo hoo.

I am working on my second tote project and have a third smaller purse on the blackboard.
It is very fun and satisfying.

I have no new artwork to show today but hope to make some fun note pads soon. Maybe this will inspire me to get crackin. I have so many projects I want to do it is ridiculous!

I am having some wrist troubles these days and I sure hope that it settles down because I would hate to have to quit my crafting.

My Etsy store is not booming with business, so if you are reading and want to help me out, you can pass the word along. There is a link to the right.

HAPPY MOM'S DAY!

Knitting has me dreaming

2006-05-04T14:16:00.000-05:00

WOW, this has turned out to be the coolest new adventure. I am already completely hooked.
I want to knit everything. What a fun hobby. It will be nice to tote a project around to ball games this summer.

It has only been about a month since my first class and I have knitted a scarf and a felted bag to carry my knitting projects around in. I have already signed up for another class as well. Will make another felted tote, then I want to do some felted slippers, and socks and sweaters and, and, and...

I am dreaming of spinning my own yarn as well. I have seen the most wonderfully lovely handspun, hand-dyed yarns on Etsy. I want to create some fun fibers.
Also the spinning wheels are so unique looking. Would fit perfectly into my Americana decor.
I have signed up for a class about spinning wool through the community ed. Should be interesting.

Pictures of scarf and purse to follow: