Bits and Things

2010-09-02T08:21:00.004-05:00

I dyed and knitted these Fingerless mittens awhile ago using food color. When I dyed top, the end product looked yellow to me but spun up mustard which I prefer anyways. I am not sure if I am going to sell or keep these for myself.

Also, here is the finished top I posted about before. The colorway is Spring Flowers. It looks pretty good. The colors have a nice watercolor look. My daughter wants me to make her something out of it. I am thinking a cowl or hat but I am sure she has other ideas.

Finally, I started spinning my Willie Wonka top last night. I am pleasantly surprised on how nice it looks. I guess you can't judge a book by it cover. I will post photos later of my progress.

Bye for Now!

2010-08-31T20:43:00.003-05:00

Better Not Quit My Day Job!

I am still here dyeing roving, (top). It is proving to be a bit more challenging dyeing multiple colors than I thought. This most recent dyed job is interesting to say the least. Not what I quite expected but we will see how it spins up. I currently, have more top that has been dyed and is cooling at the moment. I think it looks pretty good. I am getting more comfortable with handling wet wool and working mixing colors. I think it will show in the next top.

I am going start dyeing yarn next week. Stay tuned!

2010-08-19T07:51:00.005-05:00

Crazy Busy!

Well, things have been pretty busy around here getting the kids ready for school. I have been doing a lot of last minute trips picking things up for the kids. In addition, I was taking care of pets and mail for friends who were out of town. I did mange to sneak in some dyeing. I did immersion dyeing for this comp tomb roving. It has really deep shades of burgundy and purple. My daughter is dyeing for me to make something for her. I must admit I am having a slight problem for want to keep everything I make. It is really hard to pick up the coloring in photos but the colors are great. I do have photo 101 on my to do list.

I am still working on my cowl. It is really pretty and rustic lucking. I will have photos in a few days.

Just a note that within the next couple of weeks I am going to stop blogging here. I am creating a new blog. Stay tuned for details!

By for now!

2010-08-15T19:46:00.002-05:00

Fall Harvest

So, I spent a few hours spinning up the roving from my last post. I like the way it turned out. I love the Barber pole effect. I plan on using the Linen stitch to give it that woven effect. I must learn how to Navajo-ply on occasions in which I don't want that effect. Navajo-plying will be my things to learn in 2011.

I am going to knit a Cowl with this yarn. I am going to start it tonight. I can't wait to see the finished results. By the way, don't the colors remind you of the Fall Harvest.

2010-08-14T08:17:00.008-05:00

When One Door Closes

Summer break is coming to an end and my youngest will finally start kindergarten in the fall. I am so excited that I will be able to have a bit of uninterrupted time for myself a few hours a day. It is bitter sweet though as I will miss having my children around. But as the saying goes, "When one door closes another will open." My open door, has led me to selling hand dyed roving, yarn and knitting accessories on-line made by me of course. My goods will be sold on Etsy to start. So, stay tuned over the next couple of weeks as I will post updates on my going-ons and sneak peeks as to what is to come.

So for now, I will leave you with a sneak peek of some hand painted Merino roving.

2010-06-23T12:31:00.002-05:00

Not So Mellow Yellow

I think this roving came out really pretty. I love the color especially since we have had some pretty dull grey days lately.

I used food coloring this time instead of Kool Aid. I am going to start spinning it today.

I am not sure if I am going to knit or weave with the finished yarn.

Bye for now!

2010-06-13T11:05:00.003-05:00

I'm Seeing Red!

I started knitting my ankle socks using the the roving I dyed.

I am pleased with how it is knitting up. I think the coloring is pretty. I may dye more roving today. I will see how I feel.

Also, I am posting a better picture of my shawl. I don't think my last picture did it must justice.

Bye for now!

2010-06-10T20:42:00.006-05:00

Things are getting back to normal now. My son is back on his feet not quite running but walking fast with a limp. I really don't like to post too much about my personal life but back in March my son broke his femur. He is doing much better now and I am very happy.

In other news, I was given a 24inch Ashford Rigid Heddle Loom for Mother's Day. I really like it a lot and the size if perfect for weaving shawls.

I've been working on this shawl for about a month.

I am ok with how it turned out. I wanted it to be a bit longer but my warp tension was a bit off. So, I got feed up with it and decided to finish it off.

I dyed some roving today using Kool-aide. I like the color as I really didn't mind how it turned out as long as it didn't felt. I am hoping to start spinning this weekend. I am going to knit some socks.

Well, that is it for now!

2010-03-25T07:54:00.002-05:00

Taking A Break

Though I don't post as regularly as some bloggers, I will be taking a break from blogging for awhile. My son had an accident on our family vacation which required him to have surgery. He is getting stronger and better with each passing day and he should be back on his feet in six to eight weeks. When things are back to normal, it will be business as usual.

Take Care

Crystal

2010-02-22T15:40:00.003-06:00

Knitting Away!

I am still knitting away on my Olympic sweater. I have knitted 18 inches and will begin on the patterned section soon. I want to get the both sleeves knitted first.

2010-02-13T07:39:00.002-06:00

Day One!

I casted on my sweater while watching opening Ceremonies. I knit about two inches of the ribbing. I did my swatching prior to opening ceremonies because if I recall correctly that was considered training. I am knitting 5 stitches to the inch. I decided to knit the sweater using EZ percentage system. I ran into some problems. I won't bore you with the details. But decided that would be my best option to getting the correct size. I have learned my lesson a few times on the importance of gauge.

I must say I was super tired and perhaps drinking two beers didn't help either. I ended up falling asleep and was not able to see the end of the ceremonies. I did have a chance to see the athletes walking holding their flags towards the end. I love the outfits the French, British and Danish wore. Some of the other countries were very bright. I tried my hardiest to stay awake for the United States and Norway. I couldn't make though. How did they look by the way. I felt really sorry of the teammates from the country of Georgia. You really could see their pain which is very understandable. Overall I though the ceremony was nice but long.

Well, I will post some pictures of my progress over the next couple of days.

Take Care

2010-01-20T12:11:00.002-06:00

Winter Olympics!

I decided to knit a Dale of Norway Sweater during the Winter Olympics for my husband. He really likes the look of the Dale of Norway sweaters however, to buy them retail from the company you are going to spend $200.00 and up. So, I decided I would test the waters with this simple sweater and knit one.

I am going to use Knitpicks Telemark as it isn't too expense just in case, of what I am not sure at this time.

I haven't decide if I am going to officially sign up on Raverly, but we will see. What are your knitting plans if any during the Winter Olympics!

2010-01-19T12:43:00.003-06:00

Socks

I have been really into knitting socks these days. I tried knitting socks a few years ago but gave up because they always ended up ill fitting and I didn't like knitting those complicated sock patterns. I felt it was way too much work. Fast forward a few years and now I love knitting socks well kinda. I like knitting plain Jane Socks or Sock Patterns that are easy to remember the pattern like the Jaywalker.

(Jaywalker knitted in KnitPicks Sock Yarn)

But really I like the plain Janes best.

(Plain Jane knitted in Socks That Rock )

And, I solved my ill fitting sock problem (mainly them being too big ) by casting on less stitches a ( heck of a lot of less stitches). I guess gauge is really important.

2010-01-18T11:56:00.005-06:00

Happy Monday, I hope everyone had a nice weekend. I did. The family and I went to the movies and saw Alvin and the Chipmunks II. We had a lot fun and of course loaded up on popcorn and junk.

I did some spinning this weekend, some lovely alpaca I had lying around.

It was a dream to spin and knit with. I spun it as a single. I have no patience for plying. I am planning on making a yet another shawl.

Speaking of alpaca and shawl, here is my completed project I blogged about a while back. It came out pretty good. I didn't spin the yarn but the pattern is mine. This was the best picture I

could get. Now you know if this is my best picture than you can only imagine the others. Plus, it was hot as heck.

Well, that is all for now!

2010-01-15T08:30:00.002-06:00

Happy Friday!

I am glad today is Friday. The week was kinda long for me. I was sick with a cold and mother nature paid me a visit. I wasn't to enthusiast about blogging this week. I am feeling better now! I will defiantly post a ton of finished projects within the next few days. And, reveal want I am planning on knitting for the Knitting Olympics too.

Finally, I watched Grey's Anatomy last night. OMG it was really good. I never really got into the whole Grey's, Lost, and CSI shows. I am more into SCFi, Scrubs, Bravo, History Channel type shows. Let me tell you , I may be hooked on Grey's.

Have a nice weekend!

2010-01-11T11:08:00.003-06:00

What I'm Longing for Right Now!

I hope you all had a nice weekend. The weekends sure fly by don't they? I am really missing Spring right now. I can't wait to start my planting.

And, I am missing the cute frogs. We get a ton of those. We found a turtle last spring. I wonder if he or she will come back to visit.

Well, I got a lot done this past week. I managed to finish sewing two handbags, a pair of socks and a knitted shawlette. I will post pictures through out the week on these finished items.

I decided this week would be a spinning week. I have a ton of roving to spin. I decided that for this year, each week I would focus on main interest outside of knitting each week. I love to knit, crochet, weave, sew and spin. With that many loves its is hard to get to everything in a week and of course things lack. And, I feel like I am cheating on the other things. So, hopefully by doing this I will be more productive. We will see.

How do you all manage time for all of you interest.

2010-01-08T08:25:00.005-06:00

What I am Luvin at the Moment

I am really luvin homemade Cinnamon Rolls and a nice cup of coffee.

Have a Nice Weekend!

2010-01-03T19:32:00.006-06:00

Fun Fur Fabulous!

Well, I completed my Fun Fur and Cotton Ease woven scarf.

It is not too bad actually. My husband said it was different and I am ok with that. I wear it with my brown puffer jacket, so the sparkly bits pop and add some color to the brown.

I will probably warp for a new scarf at the end of this week. I will be sewing a few things this week so there is no time for weaving. My daughter has requested a purse, I want a Frenchyhttp://www.amybutlerdesign.com/produc ts/patterns_top.ph p Tote and a few sock bags. I am really into knitting socks at the moment so, I need a few bags as I knit two socks at a time and this helps to prevent second sock syndrome.

2010-01-01T13:48:00.001-06:00

Happy New Year!

Wishing You All The Best in 2010!

2009-12-17T04:55:00.007-06:00

Thursday

I finished my scarf I blogged about previously

I named it Penske . For some reason that name just seemed fitting. It came out ok. I love the colors but my tensions was off on it. So, I have decided to just use the scarf when taking the dog to do his business. I should probably call it the Poop and Peep Scarf. In addition to the scarf, I made a few winter hats for gifts to give to some of my children's friends. The children loved them. I told there mothers they should let them open there gifts now as the could certainly use them in 3 degrees weather we were having at the time.

Sorry, about these photos, It is way too early in the morning to try in fix them.

In other news, I am weaving a scarf from Lion Brand Cotton Ease and Fun Fur. I am using up stash yarn. Not sure about this scarf but we will see what happens. Perhaps, I will a two poop scooping scarves. Hopefully not, but anything fun fur one has to wonder.

The sewing bug has bit once again. I am making some recyclable shopping bags. I thought they would be good for using up stash fabric and make good gifts not for Christmas but to give just because. I will post some finished pictures of both the scarf and bags next post.

Well, have a wonderful Christmas and New Year.

2009-11-30T09:29:00.005-06:00

All Done!

I finished my Peacock scarf. I decided to name it that because the colors remind me of a peacock. I wanted to wear it into the city of Chicago but it didn't really match what I was wearing. Oh, did I forget to tell you that the family and I saw A Christmas Carol. It was really fun. It was the first time that I've been in the city to see a play. Actually, it was the first time riding the train since I first moved to Illinois five years ago. I've been missing out. We have always driven.

Well, I am hoping to start a new scarf project by wednesday. Something in yellow, white and grey. It should be interesting. We will see.

Have a Happy Monday.

2009-11-28T05:56:00.006-06:00

Weaving

I bought a Harriville Easy Weaver B about 7 months ago. I made one project on it. In fact it was the already warped and ready to go when I recieved it. When I first started weaving I thought ok weaving is nice nothing too exciting. I finished my first project and decided I will warp my loom and make a new projcet. Well, the whole warping experice was not fun and I threw in the towel and didn't weave for 7 months.

Shawl kit that was included in Loom

The weaving bug bit me again. I was watching Samantha Brown on the travel channel and she was visiting Spain. Samantha was visiting local shops and went into a shop where the woman proprietor was weaving beautiful scarves. I was really impressed by her work. Now the women had a super deluxe weaving loom but I had seen nice scarves that were made on Rigid Heddle looms too. So, I decided to give weaving one more shot. I went to You tube to watch demonstrations on warping rigid heddle looms probably a million times. Don't just love you tube. Let the warping begin. I successfully warped my loom using wool I'd had siting around for years and made this scarf. It is not perfcet but I still love and will wear it. I am not ashamed.

All I can say is " I am hooked on weaving". It is so much fun once you master the warping. I even want to by a super deluxe loom in the near future. But for now I will pluck away on my Easy weaver B. I am so glad I didn't give up. Weaving is really good way to use up odd and end piece of yarn. And, finally I am using my spinning wheel more to support my new habit. Weaving is so forgiving for over spun yarn let me tell you .

This is a handspun LLama/ merino wool in addition to Harrivilles yarn I used for warp. I usesd and handspun Llama /merino for the weft. (turquois and light brown). The finished scarf pictures and spec. to come soon and my next poject!

2009-09-17T11:54:00.003-05:00

Quilt

I finished the the binding for the Baby quilt I started almost two years ago. The binding went on pretty easy. The corners were a bit tricky but not bad. Like most things, it just takes practice. I decided to keep the quilt as my son really liked the quilt so now it is on his bed with his favorite pillow and bear.

Bye for now!

2009-09-13T16:36:00.007-05:00

Distracted

Well, I was supposed to start my Fair Isle vest this weekend, but I got distracted. I wanted to finish up a shawlette that I started a few weeks back. It is my own creation, nothing fancy. As a result of my success, I now have the I need to learn as much as I can on how to make a lace triangle shawl bug. I am really happy as to how it turned out. I ordered a book off of E-bay on designing Triangle Shawls by Evelyn Clark for more information on designing and knitting triangle lace shawls . I know there are probably better books out there. But I wanted something simple and basic. I will post better pictures and detailed information about the pattern and yarn later!

2009-09-08T16:06:00.003-05:00

Fall Knitting

I am in the process of planning my fall knitting projects. So far, I knitted a few wool hats for the children and I am working on a shawlette using some sock yarn I got from the Rock n Sock club a few years back. I also what to make some mittens using some hand spun yarn and knit a Fair Isle vest when I receive my Alice Starmore 's book of Fair Isle knitting.

I made a Fair Isle Vest a few years back. It wasn't too bad. In the meantime, I am finishing up Wrenna from French Girl knits. I just need to complete the cap sleeve and weave in the ends.

What are your plans for Fall knitting?

2009-08-11T19:08:00.003-05:00

Summer Days

Today, the kids and I visited a local vegetable and fruit stand. They had ton of yummy things. Of course, the kids wouldn't agree that they had a ton of yummy things unless your referring to carrots, watermelon, and blueberries or perhaps a potato if it is fried and made by Mc Donald's. The veggies in the dinky boxes are from my garden.

In sewing news, I am finishing up on a baby quilt that I started over a year ago. It has taken me a year and a ton of you tube hours to work up the nerve to finish it. I was afraid of the binding more specifically the mitred corners. The baby is walking now, so it may be too small. We will see.

2009-08-04T06:36:00.005-05:00

Patchwork

I sewed a few pillows over the weekend. They are colorful and fun. I made some for my little sofa and of course the kids loved them a wanted one of there own. So, I made some for them too.

I haven't done as much clothes sewing as I would of liked this summer. I did manage finish this top. http://www.simplicity.com/index.cfm?crit=1035&id=1135&StartRow=1. I think this top is the best I've sewed to date. It really looks nicley made. I hope it hold up in the wash.

Ciao!

2009-04-13T16:10:00.007-05:00

Happy Monday!

Did you have a good Easter. My was quiet but nice. Not much going on here. I am still slowly knitting away on Wrena. I thought I'd be finished by now but it is not going to happened. I did make a scarf this weekened on my new Rigid Heddle Loom. Yes, weaving is my new hobby. I will post pictures of my loom and scarf project later. I decided to take up weaving to make good use of my scrap yarn and my homespun yarn. I wasn't knitting fast enough to possibly use up my excess. Hence, the purchase of the loom.

In other news, I am going to do some sewing this week.

After reading books by Anna Maria Horner and Amy Butler , they just make me want to sew. I am not sure what, but I will be sewing something.

2009-04-04T05:26:00.002-05:00

Frog Pond!

Well, all I can say is rip, rip! I didn't have much luck with my last few knitted garment projects fitting right. A few I could get away with because of nature of the yarn and drape. But my most recent attempt were horrible. I ripped back Satine from French girl Knits and My tunic top from Glam knits. The Glam Knit top was way too big and was hanging off me and Satine was way too small in the body and huge in the straps. So I spent Friday ripping both projects back. I have grown as a knitters because normally I would just work with it. Now, I feel that I spend way too much time and money not to be happy in the end. I must be honest and note I am bad at swatching and trying on my garment as I knit. I just want to jump right in or I stop a project to hurry start another which leads to disaster. I did start a new project from French Girl Knits. It should be a quick knit as it is knit in a chunky weight yarn. Typically, I shy away from chunky yarn as I am chunky. Let's just face it, if I use lace or chunky yarn I am still big going to be big, so I am going knit what makes me happy. I will post the specs when I am done knitting the project if it comes out right.

In other news, I finished reading Twilight. I think overall it was a good book. I read the Anne Rice vampire books so I am kinda partial to her books. But, Twilight was an entertaining , easy to read book. Definitely geared toward teens on how the story unfolded with respect to the lovey dovie stuff and how it was presented. I enjoyed the book more towards the end. I have read reviews that the second book New Moon has more action in it so with that being said it I may buy the second book. I am an action girl myself. I watched the movie last night. I didn't much care for it. I know it is hard to make a book into a movie. I am glad they are getting a new director for the next movie. Hopefully, that person interpretation of the book on screen will be better.

Well, that is all for now. I need to swatch for Wrenna. Wish me luck!

2009-03-30T06:53:00.004-05:00

Well it is suppose to be spring but I don't know. Where did all this snow come from? I think Mother Nature is having a laugh. Oh well, it will just give me more time to finish and wear some lingering WIP. By the way I need to finish the neck on the Lion Neck Cardigan from Custom Knits and the neck on the cover sweater from Glam Knits. As you can probably tell I don't much care for doing the neckline. So whilst waiting to finish off the those sweaters, I started Satine from French Girl Knits. It is a really easy pattern. It would be done by now but I knitted 10 inches before realizing the sweater was twisted when I first started knitting in the round. So I had to carefully rip back 10 inches of Mohair lace. Now things are trekking along nice. It will be done by the end of the week. I did finish my daughter's shrug and she loves it. I put mine on hold again as I don't like working with yarn it is knitted with. It is some Alpaca blend from Elann. I found it really boring. I did make another wristlet and some crocheted earrings as gifts. I 've not heard yet what people think of the earrings. I made myself a pair and love them. I think I am going to make myself a rainbow of colors.

I've started a new hobby, yarn show and tell and book reviews on my next post.

By for now!

P.S. Sorry for the side view photos I am still learning how to use my photo software and I promise to learn how to link information.

2009-03-13T20:50:00.003-05:00

Slow Week

This week was a slow week for me craft wise. I was very sick. I manged to finish off a wristlet and ship it off and I made myself a new sock bag.

In addition, as the week progressed and I started feeling better, I was able to knit my daughter a lovely purple shrug. Her shrug was so darn cute I wanted to make myself one. But, because funds are running low due to an expensive plumbing problem and nor did I have the patient to start something new. I decided to search through once loved wip and found something to re purpose into a shrug. Well, really a mini Cardi. I think after a certain age and weight a mini cardi is more appropriate. I will post pictures later.

Well, have a good weekend!

2009-03-08T10:56:00.005-05:00

I have been doing a little bit of sewing and crocheting these days. I am making and sending handmade gifts to the women in my family. For the last couple of years, I have been doing a very poor job with keeping in touch with my family since I moved from California. It seemed like the only time we communicated was during the holidays or when someone in the family died. So, I decided enough is enough. I told myself I need to make a better effort with keeping in touch with the women in my family . To be honest with you it just isn't limited to the women in my family but women who have touched my life. So, by sending these gifts with a simple handwritten note I thought this would be a great way to start.

2009-02-21T17:37:00.006-06:00

Back in Business!

I was without a camera for several months as our Cannon that we paid way too much money for and only had for 4 years and we really didn't take that many pictures with stopped working. This camera was supposed to be the (my hobby is photography) camera for my husband.

Well, the hobby camera just stopped working. My husband researched the Internet and forums to see what the problem may be but with no luck. In the end, we sent the hobby camera to Cannon for an estimate for repair. What Cannon wanted for the labor only was not in our budget at this time. So, we decided it would be cheaper to buy a less expensive camera for every day use. And wait on having the hobby camera repaired.

We decided to buy a Cannon Power Shot A590IS. I know, I know, why would we buy another Cannon. Well, Cannons have a good reputatuion in Camera world and they take beautiful pictures and Consumer Reports gave them high marks. Our Cannon may have just been a lemon but, with two kids living in the house one can only guess what really happened. So, were giving Cannon another chance.

I am really liking the Power Shot. It is a lot more user friendly for the novice photographer type such as myself. It even has video. Once again I will be able to start craft blogging again.

I will leave you with some of the photos I have taken with the Power Shot and with the my hobby is photograpy camera.

Can you guess which photos were take by which camera?

2008-06-17T14:03:00.003-05:00

It is amazing what you can accomplish went your not reading blogs all of the time. I love to read craft blogs because they really inspire me. But the down fall is that reading the blogs cut into my creative time . So now I limit myself on the time and look what I've accomplished.

All of the knitted items were designed by me. I totally love designing my own knitted items. They are so much fun and rewarding when the items are finished. The sweaters are all knit top down. The charcoal sweater looks better worn. It is knitted with Rowan Summer Tweed. Rowan Summer Tweed has a really nice drape. The hand spun is going to be for a cabled sweater I am thinking of designing.

In addition, I have been doing some sewing. I actually finished four garments but the other two needed to be washed so I will take pictures of them later. I know the photos aren't the best but I am trying.

Well bye for now!

Top Down with lace bottom Noro Crayon (The Spelling is wrong but that is how you pronounce it)

Top Down Garter stitch Rowan Summer Tweed

Socks that Rock HWY 30

Hand spun Singles

Summer Tote and Wallet

Mc Calls (Pattern)

(Butterick Pattern)

2008-05-25T10:19:00.003-05:00

In between the knitting, spinning and sewing, I have been doing some baking. I have been baking a lot of bread these days and my Hamilton Beach hand mixer died on me after 13 years. So, the husband surprised me on Mother's Day with a Kitchen Aide Mixer. I am totally in love with this mixer. It kneads my bread beautifully which my wrist are totally thankful for. I have tryed to take some Artsy Fartsy pictures of items I have baked. But it is so hard to stage something to make it look unstaged as well as getting the lighting just right. In addition my assistant was overly eager to help. Perhaps there will be a photography class in my near future.

I will post some finished photos of two shirts I sewed and two sweater that I knitted in a few days. Bye for now!

2008-05-03T16:14:00.005-05:00

The reason I haven't posted isn't because I don't have any thing to write about, it is quite the contrary. I always have things to write about I just don't always have pictures to show along with my post. And, for me that is they fun part about reading blogs are looking at the pictures. So, I finally got the hubby to down load some pictures today of my of WIP and finished projects. And, wouldn't you know it the excitement has passed to post about these things . I mean I don't understand I was so proud and excited about these projects a month ago okay perhaps three months ago. And now, it is like pulling to teeth to write about them. OMG speaking of teeth pulling I got my Wisdom teeth pulled about a month ago, now that is a post in itself. The yanking , pulling and blood. My jaw is still numb. No pictures though.

Well, to continue on , every time I sit down to write about these once very loved and cherished homemade items, there is no love for them any more. POOF!!!! NO feeling or excitement gone gone, gone. So rather than force myself to write about these project that I am no longer in love with I will post pictures only. No made up jive on how much fun I had making these project. Well technically I did have fun at one time. Just not right now in the moment. So with that said, Here are the pictures and Bye for now!

Pencil/marker roll for the daughter

Tote bag for me . I finished reading Friday Night Knitting club. A good book.

Sock bag in yellow and brown. Yellow is in this year.

Half of my Ez Vest. For the life of me I can't remember the correct name.

2008-02-07T12:08:00.000-06:00

Enough Snow Already!

Well, I have been doing a lot of knitting and sewing these past few days as it was to snowy to go anywhere, So, I was able to finish my bog jacket and the baby bibs. I still need to put a few finishing touches on them, but for the most part they are done. The bog jacket was really fun to knit. The pattern is really easy to knit even for a new knitter. It is defanitly a TV knitting project. I see myself knitting a few more in the future but more tailored and fitted.

I started a few new projects in both sewing and knitting . I made a baby quilt which is done for the most part but I just need to buy some binding and batting to finish it up. In addition, I started knitting a Ribwarmer also by Elizabeth Zimmerman. I am hoping to have it finished by next week so I can start knitting my first sweater designed by me.

I am planning a top down cardi using Noro Kueryon. This sweater will be my last cool weather project until the fall. I will post pictures of my progress over the next few weeks.

2008-01-11T12:29:00.000-06:00

Happy Friday!

Two post in one week my goodness, pigs must be falling from the sky. You'd better watch your head.

Well, I am progressing well on the baby bids. Currently, I am in the process of tracing the bibs to be sewn. It is better to work in an assembly line so to speak as these take all of a few minutes to sew.

I did manage to sneak this cute apron in for me from Bend the Rules Sewing. I have a bad habit of sometimes drying my hands on my pants when I am on kitchen duty. I know that is soo 6 year oldish. The apron was really simple to sew and I think would make a really nice hostess gift.

A very good site to visit for inspiration and excellent tutorials is Sew, Mama, Sew Blog. I have found some cute ideas lurking over at that blog too.

In the knitting front I am knittin away on my very very very very garter stitch Bog Jacket. I am hoping to have it finished by the end of this month.

Well have a good weekend.

2008-01-10T08:55:00.000-06:00

New Year, New Projects, New Blog Name

I am really excited about the knitting , spinning and sewing projects I have planned for 2008 because my intentions are to give many of these projects away as gifts. There are so many people I know who are expecting babies, there will be a ton of birthday parties, and of course the usual holiday giving throughout the year. And quite frankly, I can't afford to buy gifts for all of these occasions.

So, I have made the pledged this year to make gift items. To be honest, I think people appreciate homemade items as they are personal and they stand out amongst the mass produced store bought gifts. Don't get me wrong, I am not knocking store bought gifts as I would take a Coach bag over a homemade tote bag any day. But, homemade tote as a gift vs a Coach Bag as a gift. Well let's just say homemade is made from the heart, enough said.

Now with that being said, I bought this great sewing book called Bend the Rules Sewing. The author Amy Karol a.ka. Angry Chicken, has very simple but nice projects to sew and gift.

I am in the process of starting some baby bids. I picked up some lovely cotton and cotton flannel to sew them up with. I can't wait to get started.

In closing, I decided to change my blog name The Habitual Knitter because I tend to dabble in a few different crafty things hence the name Bits and Things. Well, I guess that is it.

Happy New Year!

2007-08-14T22:38:00.000-05:00

Finished!

Yes, I am so happy that I finished my Swallowtail shawl. It is my first completed lace shawl and I used my own handspun yarn. I am so proud of myself because despite my many obstacles ( knitting in garter stitch instead of stockinette, only reading the chart right to left, yarn breaking as I'm knitting, wonky blocking) it came out fine. Now I am struggling with am I going to give it to my favorite aunt or keep it for myself. I will have to sleep on that.

Goodnight!!!!!

2007-08-01T09:27:00.000-05:00

Back from Vegas!

Well, I am back from Las Vegas. I had a great time. I didn't post about previously as I was too busy. But, I met my sister-in-law out there and we had kinda of a mothers get away. We stayed at the lovely Wynn Hotel and Casino. The Wynn is like the best luxury hotel in Las Vegas. In addition, we had Spa treatments and saw the musical Spamalot which is based off the Monty Pythons Holy Grail.

Since I have been home, it has been kinda hard to get any knitting done. Between reading last installment of Harry Potter and playing Webkinz not much knitting has been getting done.

I am still working on finishing up Swallowtail shawl. I only have the edging border to finish and bind off. It has been a challenge to say the least. I will post about it later.

That is all folks.

2007-06-23T07:54:00.000-05:00

Done!

I finished yet another sweater. This sweater is from Fitted Knits. It is the Cap sleeved T-shirt. But my top isn't cap sleeved of course. I am a big girl and let's just say that my arms look more like thighs in a capped sleeve shirt. The sweater was a fast knit. It took about a month. I used Lion brand Cotton Ease which is nice for cheapo yarn. I bought more Cotton Ease as a matter of fact to knit Tomato the free pattern from Knitting Daily. Currently, I am debating as to Knit Tomato or my new Sock Club Kit. The colorway is Firebird in lightweight. I just love the colors.

In the spinning front, I just finished spinning 40z of Opalescence by Quail hill Carding Co. The colorway is Purple Passion and it is a mix of mohair, silk, wool and alpaca. It is spun in a lace weight single. The pattern is Field of Flowers by Fiber Trends. I started knitting this on Mother's Day. It is slow knitting as I know it is harder to fix mistakes with lace and I not much for life lines.

Finally, I sewed this cute little knitting bag using recycled fabric. I may sew a matching circular needle case. I love to sew but it hard to find the time between knitting a d spinning.

Well that's all Folks.

2007-06-17T20:34:00.000-05:00

Bombshell Finally Completed!

I have finally completed Bombshell. I started it back in May 2006 and worked on it for a few weeks and put in my WIP bag for almost a year. Why I did that I don't know as it was just about done. But, now it is done and I am so happy to have a nice non-frumpy knitted sweater. Bombshell was my first time knitting a sweater from the top down. I see a few more bombshells in the future perhaps in cotton. BTW: I used Lorna's Lace Lion and Lamb and what a lovely yarn to knit with.

That is it for now!

2007-05-21T20:19:00.001-05:00

Short Post

Here are a few things I've been working on. I finally finished my first BMFA sock kit the last week in April just before the new kit arrived. The new kit has the new BMFA sock yarn Silky. It is a superwash Merino wool with some silk. It is really soft and pretty. I haven't started it yet but my plan is to make knee highs for my daughter to wear to school next year. In addition, I started some mittens to be made from my latest addition to my knitting book library, Selbuvotter. But, they been put on hold because I am finishing up a sweater I started last year. I think I will have the sweater finished by the end of this week. And, then I will cast on Simple Tee from Fitted Knits. Yes, another book to add to my knitting library.

I bought some wool ease cotton for the project. I read good reviews on it. so, I thought I would give it a try.

Finally, I started spinning some lace weight yarn to make a shawl. The pattern is from Fiber Trends and is called Field of Flowers. It is an easy pattern so far I just hope to have it finished before the end of summer.

Happy knitting and spinning.

2007-04-08T18:46:00.000-05:00

Happy Easter

It has been awhile since my last post. I have been knitting and spinning along as usual. I finally received my Rockin Sock Club kit the second week in March. It was a bit of a run around to finally receive it. Apparently, the first shipment was lost in the mail and couldn’t be tracked. So a second one was shipped out and I received it like three days later. I liked the colorway and have decided to knit the socks for my husband. Monsoon which is the colorway seemed masculine and perfect for a man with dark green, grey, and blue coloring. Hopefully, my next Rockin Sock kit will arrive on time so there won’t be any spoilage prior to receiving the kit.

In other news, I am still knitting away on the Swallowtail Shawl from Interweave knits. Every thing was going fine until I realized I missed read the chart and knitted the damn thing in Garter stitch half way through. Live and learn, I decided not to rip back as I was afraid I may not re knit it. Plus I knitted it with my hand spun yarn and it was wonky looking when I started to rip back. I think it is a great pattern and I plan on knitting it the correct way. This was a valuable lesson for me to read the patterns well before I just dive in.

I ordered two new books, the Yarn Harlots newest and Artic knits. I haven’t started the Harlot’s book yet but will soon. I ordered the Artic knit book as I wanted a simple lace patterns that I could use for my hand spun yarns, I think this book fits the bill.

Finally, I think I am going through midlife crisis at 34 if that is possible. I just joined Curves to once and for all to get rid of that baby weight from having the kids. In addition, I find my self wanting to listen to music from my twenties so; the Easter Bunny brought me a new old No Doubt CD. I just love No Doubt. I can’t wait to pop it in the CD player of my SUV to take the kiddies to school. I know my daughter will probably think I am nuts. She is only five so perhaps not. She may think I am cool which isn’t saying too much coming from some one who thinks Webkinz are awesome.

Well, I guess that is it for now. Happy knitting and spinning!

2007-02-17T13:32:00.000-06:00

I am so ready for Spring!

Yes, the spring bug has bitten me and now I am in the process of planning and knitting my spring projects. On the needles, I am currently working on a shawl for my daughter. It is the beginners Triangle shawl from Gathering of Lace by Meg Swansen. It is a pretty easy lace pattern to follow. I am using hand dyed lace I dyed myself way back when using Koolaid. The colorway I named Cotton Candy. My goal is to have the shawl finished so my little girl can wear it on Easter Sunday. In addition, I am currently spinning some roving I bought at Stitches Midwest to make myself a shawl. I think I am going to knit the Swallowtail Shawl from Interweave Knits. The roving is from Blue Moon Fiber Arts. I can't remember the colorway name but it is a 50/50 blend of wool and tencel. I decided to spin singles as I don't like the Barber Pole effect you get some times when plying multicolored roving. I think the singles are spinning up well as this is my first attempt to spin singles to actually knit with. I have tried to spin singles in the past with no success. But, I learned through trial and error that the fiber and how your wheel is set makes a huge difference on how it spins.

I am still working on the Charlotte's Web sweater. I had to re knit the first sleeve as it was huge. There was no way it was going to fit my daughter but the second attempt is coming out nicely.

Not too many things on the needle. Just enough to keep me busy that is until I receive my first kit from the Rockin Sock Club. Yes!!!!!

Until next time knit and spin on!

2007-02-03T22:33:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year!

Well, I guess it is a bit late for that now seeing as it is the second month of the New Year. But, Happy New Years anyways. Like most people, I too made a few New Year's resolutions; you know the usually loose weight, save more, spends less become more spiritual. And like most people, I too didn't really stick to them. I suppose I have a whole year to get them right though. But, I am proud that I have been sticking to most of my knitting resolutions. One of which, is to only work on a few knitting projects at a time; consisting of one small project such as a sock and on large project such as a sweater. It is amazing how much you can accomplish. For instance, after two months I finally finished my Hubby's Fair Isle vest which is good for me and my short commitment self. I think it came out great it still needs to be blocked though. It was my second attempt at doing Fair Isle. And, now that I am actually finished, I realized that they are easy and fun to knit. I do believe my next Fair Isle Vest will take less time though as I worked on this vest throughout the holiday season. In addition to working on the vest, I started knitting an Alpaca scarf using hand spun yarn. It too is just about done. I just need to spin a bit more yarn to complete it. So in the meantime, I have started a cardigan for my daughter. She wanted a Charlotte's Web Sweater as she calls it. It is supposed to be like Fran's, the little girl Dakota Fanning plays. We have not seen the new movie but only have read the movie release book. So far, I completed the body to just the armholes and now I currently working on a sleeve. When I am done with the sweater it will probably not look like a thing like the sweater in the movie. But to a five year old it is brown and that is close enough.

Now, I have to confess that I am struggling with my second knitting resolution which is over spending on knitting related stuff. Case in point, I just purchased Gathering of Lace by Meg Swansen and some Satakeli yarn for a hat and mittens for my daughter. I shouldn't of bought this stuff and I know it. My husband will not be happy though especially since he just bought me the second year membership for the Rocking sock Club. Yes!!!!!! I am so happy. But this time around, I plan to be more diligent in completing the socks. I won't mention how many I actually finished the last time. Does anyone want to buy some yarn? No just kidding the thought of giving up sock yarns scares me. Yuck, what an ugly thought.

I guess that is it for now I hope everyone who reads this blog is doing OK. There is so much confusion and craziness going on in the world. And, our daily lives are affected by it and it is hard to make since of it I know. I guess people like me and others who knit have an outlet. We are the luck ones.

Until next time knit and spin on!

2006-12-25T16:23:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas!

2006-12-04T08:57:00.000-06:00

I am going to just jump right into what has been going on. I don’t have much time so here I go.This is the Fair Isle vest I am knitting for my husband. I only have about three more inches to knit before I cast on the steeks. My initial goal was to have this vest finished by the end of December. But because I had to rip out like almost 9 inches as the set up row was incorrect I have decided to push the date back to the end of January. After this horrible experience, I have learned my lesson and that is swatching isn’t just for checking gauge. I am feeling pretty confident that I will meet this goal provided that I don’t start any new knitting projects. I am trying to break the habit of casting on new projects before I finish my current project except for socks. They don’t count. It is really hard though. But when it is a necessity it is ok to bend the rules. It is like 9 degrees outside and I don’t have a hat. And, I am not going to buy one because I can make my own. So, I have decided to crochet a hat, yes, I went to the other side. I needed the hat like now. Since, crocheting isn’t knitting; I didn’t really break my rule and crocheting goes much faster. Well, I was really inspired to crochet with my handspun wool and felt a winter hat after reading the winter edition of Spin-off. The article was on felting hats. It was really nice because I was able to crochet the hat in about 2 hours or so and use up some wool I spun almost a year ago. And, the felting process only took a few minutes. When the hat is dry, I will embroider flowers on it. This should be fun as I never tried embroidery. I see more felting projects in the future. I am finally going to making something from my One skein book, a small felted bag to hold my keys, cell phone and wallet. I hate carrying a large bag if I am just running a quick errand.

Well, I think that is it for now. I have to go wash a ton of clothes and hopefully do some knitting or spinning later.

2006-11-14T14:16:00.000-06:00

Bad Blogger!

I have been a really bad blogger but that is a good thing because it means that I have been busy knitting. I am working on my husbands Fair Isle vest and socks for me. In addition, I put fringe on my handspun shawl. The shawl looks complete now. I did a little spinning as I needed to make more yarn for the fringe on my shawl. Also, I 've started sewing again. Saturdays are for sewing and Sundays are for spinning. When you have way to many hobbies you have to organize yourself to fit them in. This seems to work for me. I will post pictures later of my WIP, STR kit, and sewing.

Knit and Spin on!

2006-10-28T18:59:00.000-05:00

Just a Few Bits and Things.

Here are a few photos of things that have been keeping me busy this week.

I casted on this hat for my son last Saturday and finished it up on Friday. It was fun to knit. Now my daughter wants me to knit one for her in a purple theme.

In addition, I am finally knitting a scarf for my aunt in California. She sent the yarn to me to knit. It is a boucle for Lion Brand. It wouldn't have been my first choice but she liked it. I decided to knit it double strand on size 35 needle in Garter stitch so it would knit up fast. It really looks nice to be honest with you. Knitting it on the larger needle gives it a drapey affect.

To go on, I made yet another knitting bag. It is cute but it is not big enough for the project I had intended it for. My husband has finally given me his blessing to knit him a Fair Isle vest, and the bag was going to be used for the Fair Isle Vest. So, I decided to buy a bag from Schoolhouse Press with a quote from Elizabeth Zimmerman on front. I need all the encouragement I can get to finish a wearable vest. I will post pictures later of the bag and yarn when I get it in the mail.

So, I decided to use the bag for some socks I am making for me. I am using Socks that Rock Blarney Stone.

Finally, I am spinning some pencil roving I bought when I first learned to spin. I bought a ton of that stuff being naive to fiber. I am going to make a vest with it. I hope it comes out ok.

Well, I guess that is it.

Happy Knitting and Spinning!

2006-10-16T21:11:00.000-05:00

This is going to be a really short post as I am so tired. So here we go!

I finally finished my handspun shawl. It has been done for awhile. The truth be told, I am just getting around to weaving in the ends. It still needs to be blocked but I just haven't gotten around to it. In addition, I finished my daughter's socks. I used Lorna's Lace and of course I don't know the colorway. If someone really wants to know the colorways leave me a comment and I will post it later.

I started spinning my hand dyed roving. I am thiniking of spinning the roving into singles because I am not liking the way it looks plyed. Well, to be honest I am not sure yet. I need to knit the plyed and the singles and make my final choice. I will post photos later to see what you all think.

Finally, I made another knitting bag. I just love them. I can sew them up in about an hour. They are great because they stay open on their own and they are just pretty.

Well, I guess that is it. So goodnight and happy knitting and spinning

2006-10-03T19:55:00.000-05:00

Quick Update!

Well, I have been really crazy busy with the kids and all now that school has started. But, did manage to finish one of the mittens. Not bad, it is my very first one. The second mitten is still in progress. In addition, I still need to block the Fair Isle Vest. The photo in the previous post doesn't really show how pretty it is. So, I will retake it. I started knitting a shawl with the Alpaca I spun a few weeks back I will post pictures later of the progress.
Last but not least, I have been bitten by the sewing bug so I made this cute little bag. It took me a about two hours to make. Nothing fancy but it is cute for small projects. I plan on making a few more. I love using soft fabric bags for knitting in the house. They are nice because I can also stuff them in a diaper bag. These days it is hard to use my Jordana Paige bags with having so much stuff with the kids whenI am on the go.

I guess that is it. I just bought Xmen 3 on dvd so I am off to watch it.

Happy Knitting and Spinning.

.

2006-09-19T21:48:00.000-05:00

Finished At Last!

I finally finished the Fair Isle vest I knitted for my son. I took me about a month to complete. It still needs to be blocked though. I had a lot of fun knitting it and cutting the steeks. The hardest part of knitting the vest wasn’t the cutting of the steek but just planning the design and figuring out the sizing. That is it, nothing fancy. I can’t wait to start knitting my next Fair Isle vest for my daughter. But first, I still need to finish knitting mittens, hat and scarves for the kids because it is cold outside. This is the mitten I am currently working on it is for my daughter. All of the colors are her favorite except for the red. She doesn’t hate red but it is not her favorite. Now green she hates. She will not touch anything if it is green. She won’t even drink water if it is a green cup. Kids, are so funny.

I got my BMFA sock kit in the mail on Saturday and there were two patterns this time around instead of one. So, that was a nice surprise.

Well I guess that is it. I am really tired and I am going to sleep. Until next time knit and spin on.

2006-08-20T07:05:00.000-05:00

New Sock Kit

This is the most recent BMFA sock kit. The pattern is called Hippie Crunchy and the colorway is Peaseblossom. The colors are pretty. I haven't started the project yet but hopefully next month before the next kit arrives. I am trying to retrain myself to only work on one large or detailed project and a small no brainer project at a time in hopes to finish things faster. I am working on a Fair Isle Vest for my son and simple sock for my daughter. I have been working on the Fair Isle vest for about three weeks and it should be done within the next week. I will post pictures later.

I am still spinning the alpaca which I love but it sheds a lot and planning mittens, hats and scarves for the children.

A few weeks back I dyed this purple and green roving using Kool Aid. In comparing it with this BMFA roving I don't think mine looks too bad. My roving is 100% Merino wool and BMFA is a blend of Merino and Tencel that why there is a nice sheen to it.

Well, I guess that is it.

2006-08-13T19:34:00.000-05:00

Time sure goes by fast when you are having fun. Since my last post, I celebrated my daughter’s 5th birthday, my 34th birthday, I have seen Pirates of the Caribbean II, had dinner at Medieval Times, visited The Lake County Fair, The Wisconsin State Fair, and to top it all off I attended Stitches Midwest. Let me tell you, Stitches was great. I had the chance to take a Norwegian mitten class instructed by Beth Brown-Reinsel the author of Knitting Ganseys. I took the class with my partner in crime Kelly who is very fun to take a class by the way. She is so funny and witty. She had they class in stitches. The class was really informative, Beth was really nice and encouraging and all of the attendees were really nice. But knitters with bad vision beware; the charts are small so bring a magnifying glass. And, if you are wondering where the picture of my completed mitten is well there isn’t one. I am blind as a bat and as a result, I had to keep frogging my mittens as I couldn’t read the charted pattern. So, no mitten.

They were good number of vendors at Stitches, door prizes, lots of people, and yarn everywhere. I was good and didn’t over spend I was sensible. I bought some lovely hand painted sock yarn from BMFA in addition to some hand painted roving also so by BMFA but I purchased it from the Fold booth. Also from the Fold, I purchased some Baby Alpaca roving to spin. I started spinning it today. All I can say is I have a new love. I thought Merino wool was nice, alpaca is beautiful to spin. It is super soft the fiber has nice staple length and it seems to not untwist as easily as the Merino. I am going to make a lovely lace stole with it for my mother in law who lives in the UK. She just loves Alpacas.

Overall Stitches was fun, I did find that prices were normal on most items. I did take advantage of being able to browse through knitting books galore, that I will later purchase from Amazon.

Well, that is all for now I have a lot of knitting and spinning to complete so until next time happy knitting and spinning.

2006-07-10T08:28:00.000-05:00

I can’t believe it has been so long since I lasted posted. I suppose that it a good thing because it means I have been really busy. And what is even better is that I have been busy working on fiber related projects. Currently, I have been spinning this beautiful Merino Wool I bought awhile back. It really spins beautiful. This wool is what got me over my spinning hump. I had started to question my sanity as to why the heck I would want to spend my time frustrated spinning wool. It took forever to spin, and the finished product looked crappy. Well, I bought this Merino wool in hopes that it would rekindle my flame for spinning. The heat is on once again. I am in love with spinning. I totally get it. It is so rewarding to spin yarn and to knit an item from it even if it is only a pair of socks. What is scary is I find myself wanting to knit my handspun yarn oppose the $20.00 skeins I bought from Lorna’s Lace and Blue Moon Fiber. We all know these yarns are fabulous but it just more rewarding I suppose with something you have created. Which leads me into my next adventure Dyeing, I wanted spin some hand painted roving but found it was a bit costly for me at this time. So, I bought the Twisted Sister sock book to get some direction to dye my own yarns and roving. Well, Sunday afternoon was spent dyeing yarn. It was so much fun and not as messy as anticipated. I used Kool-aid and the cold pour method but instead of steaming it in the Microwave or crook pot I put in a plastic trash bag and let it steam in the sun. It worked. Now I am going to admit the colors are a bit muted. However, I tend to like softer colors. I think I am going to invest in some dyes for my next dyeing project. I have 2lbs of Merino roving on it way in the mail to dye and spin.

In addition to knitting spinning and dyeing, I have been trying to do some sewing. I few years ago I was really getting into sewing but with the birth of my second child, I found I didn’t have much time for it anymore. So, to get back into it I am starting small with sewing knitting bags. Anyone who knows me knows that I love knitting bags. I have three Jordana Paiges and I have been looking at the Offhand Design Bags and Green Mountain knitting bags. My conscience won’t let me buy the bags because one the bags are at least $100.00 dollars and two I could make similar bags for myself. Now my darling aunt knows of my dilemma, so being the kind person she is, she made a Carpet bag for me. It was a nice surprise. I think it is really pretty; her bag inspired me to finish making this little bag for socks. I had gotten frustrated and put it away with all of my other unfinished sewing projects. But finished it and have plans to make a few more.

Well, I think I have said enough so until next time happy spinning and knitting.

2006-06-18T13:59:00.000-05:00

WIP

Here are a few photos of the projects I am currently working on. I finshed one sock from my Rock and Weave sock kit. I won't recieve my next sock kit until mid July which is fine I will have plenty of time to finish my second sock.

Also, I have progressed well on Bombshell from big girl knits. I am hoping to have the sweater completed soon.

I am not a very fast knitter so it takes me awhile to finish things. I think for the rest of this year I am going to focus on completing projects that were put on hold or just needed to be cast on. I think I am over my knitting buying frenzy which is good. While I love knitting, I think it was starting to consume me which I didn't like, you know buying tons of yarn, books, looking at a ton of blogs buying more needles which I have a ton of. Casting on one project and setting it aside to cast on something new. Insanity I know. I am finally at a stage where I am happy with what I have not worried about what next.

Well, I guess that is it so until next time knit and spin on

2006-06-11T20:27:00.000-05:00

Rock and Weave Pattern and Fairgounds yarn from Blue Moon Fiber!

Not much going on here. So, here are photos that I promised from my last posting.

Lovely Merino Wool

2006-05-29T16:45:00.000-05:00

As Promised!

Here is a photo of my Blue Moon Socks That Rock kit. The colorway is called Fairgrounds and the sock pattern is called Rock and Weave. I will post a picture later of my sock progression and the pattern itself. Just an FYI Blue Moon has updated their Website with new colorways, sock kits and a new book. I bought the book and a few skeins of yarn, Lemongrass and Farmhouse.

I bought some roving and did some spinning the weekend. I was totally bored with spinning the blue stuff for my shawl. I forgot what is was. Anyways I bought some Merino Wool in a pretty yellow and teal for some socks or something small like a hat. The Merino is such a dream to spin.

In case your wondering about the bird. He or she visits my house everyday to peck on the window. It was cute at first, but now it is not so cute when it is pecking at 5:00 am. I wonder if it wants me to feed it?

Oh well, knit and spin on!

2006-05-21T13:15:00.000-05:00

I am still here!

It has been awhile since my last post. So, I guess I will just jump in and tell you what has been going on. Well, I am officially over my Knitter’s Block. I have started a few projects and have many planned for the future. Currently, I am working on Bombshell from Big Girl Knits which is a good book by the way. I am using Lorna’s Lace Lion and Lamb which I bought at the Lorna’s Lace sale and tour. The sale and tour was a lot of fun. I got the Lion and Lamb for just about half of what you would pay for it retail and a few skeins of sock yarn. I am really into knitting socks at the moment. I started knitting my daughter a pair of socks using Regia cotton yarn which I really like a lot. My daughter was previously banned from me knitting her socks as she said they were itchy. I used Socks That Rock by Blue Moon Fiber Arts how could they be itchy. In any event, she wore them in a pinch and loved them so much so she walked down the street with her pant leg up tell the neighbors I knit her these sock. Well, what could a proud mother do but knit her more and the fact she needs to give the Socks that Rock pair a break. I unnecessarily put that reference to Socks That Rock in so I could let you all know that I am in the Socks That Rock sock of the month, well every other month club. The club was previously closed but they did let 200 more members in and I happened to be one of the lucky ones. I will post about my first kit when I get it.
Well, I guess that is it. Haven’t been doing much spinning I am going designate Wednesday and Saturday as spinning days to keep me on track. Spring is here so I am going to try my hand at dyeing. We will see how that goes. Oh yes, in addition to Bombshell, I plan on knitting Lift and Separate also from Big Girl Knits. I bought the yarn from Elann. It is an Alpaca mix. Well, I guess that is really it. I thought I had more to write about I guess not.

Until next time knit and spin on!

2006-05-21T13:06:00.000-05:00

The Book

BombShell

Booty From Lorna's Lace

Lift and Separate

Socks in progress for my daughter

2006-04-24T07:47:00.000-05:00

Knitter’s Block

Not much to report here, I just have a serious case of knitter’s block. I have a ton of books and recently purchased a ton more, yet I can’t find anything to knit. I am working on socks to help me through this phase. But, it is frustrating because I have yarn to make a few shawls and a vest but they are not inspiring me at this time. I know I want to make something light and airy for the spring and will knit up quick. What I don’t know. If anyone out there in knitting land has any suggestions, please let me know.

Until next time knit and spin on!

2006-04-15T19:44:00.000-05:00

What’s New!

Well, I finally finished my daughter’s sock that I started in February. I think they came out pretty good. I finally feel after completing my third pair of socks I have a good understanding on how to do them. So, I casted on a pair for my husband using Regia Jacquard. This pair is going much faster than my daughter’s sock. There is a big difference

between knitting on a size 0 needle vs. 2 on how fast things knit up. I have started knitting the second sock, so I won’t get SSS. Normally I don’t but I can’t wait to start some wash cloths that I saw in Mason Dixon Knitting. I bought Mason Dixon Knitting after reading so much hype about it on the internet. And, to my surprise, it is a really interesting book. I think is very inspiring and helps people to realize that you can knit out the box. There is more to knitting than sweaters, scarves, socks etc. So it is worth the money. I also so bought Knitting Rules by the Yarn Harlot and One Skein. As always the Yarn Harlot delivered on her witty and charming stories. A must read for all knitters. One Skein was ok. I expected a little more but realistically there isn’t whole lot you can do with one skein of yarn. The stuff they featured was nice. It is not a real expensive book, so I am not up set for buying it. If I had a chance to browse thorough it at a book store, I probably wouldn’t of bought it. But because I bought it on-line there isn’t much you can do.

2006-04-15T19:40:00.000-05:00

2006-04-15T19:34:00.000-05:00

I am glad spring is here. I really enjoy knitting in my sunroom especially since I put some decent furniture in there. Previously, we used the sunroom as a breakfast nook. But, I have since claimed it for myself. Everyone in my house has there own space. Each of my children have their own room, my husband has claim on the guest bedroom, /office, which use to be my space before I got kicked out and was as so graciously given the spare walk in closet in our master bedroom.. Our master bedroom we might as well call it the family room because the kids and the toys end up in there anyways. Needless to say I am happy and don’t have once of guilt. Don’t worry; I have designated a new area in the house for my family to have their meals. The kids can spill Cheerios in the kitchen now!

Before I go, I have some exciting knitting events coming up. Yes, thank you very much. I will be attending the Lorna’s Lace Sale and Tour exclusively for Windy City Knitting Guild members in May. Did I blog about joining the knitting guild? Sorry if I didn’t. Anyways, in August, I am taking a Norwegian Mitten Class at Stitches Midwest with my fellow partner in crime or should I say Knitter in Crime Kelly. I can’t wait. I am going to start saving my husbands money now.

Well until next time Knit and Spin on!

P.S. My spinning is getting so much better too!

2006-03-27T06:30:00.000-06:00

Not Much To Report

I started work on my Mohair blend Alpaca Silk shawl. I had a few problems understanding the pattern at first. I thought I was a seasoned knitter and could read and understand just about any pattern I picked up, but evidently I was mistaken.

To go on, sock one for my daughter has been completed and I am working on sock two. Sock two is going much faster than number one as I had many problems with reading the pattern yet again. I’d made two pairs of sock previously with no problems so why I had problems with this pair, I don’t know. Perhaps some patterns are just written better than others. I know excuses, excuses.

Finally, I have overcome the fear to knit a project with my hand spun yarn. I decided to make a simple garter stitch shawl. I am knitting it on a size ten needle as I am going to block the hell out of my finish product to get a lacy effect. We will see how that goes.

Well, other than that not much to report. Until next time Knit and Spin on!

2006-03-27T06:27:00.000-06:00

2006-03-27T06:24:00.000-06:00

Handspun Garter Stitch Shawl

2006-03-13T07:34:00.000-06:00

More Yarn!

Yes, I have been buying more yarn. I finally received in the mail the yarn I am going to use to make my husbands vest. It is a 70/30 silk cotton yarn by Rowan called Summer Tweed. The original plan was to complete the vest by Father’s Day however, I have been side tracked. I really wanted to knit a lace triangular shawl but; I am having no luck with the current Shoal Water Shawl by Fiber Trends. It isn’t really inspiring me right now, I think perhaps it is the color and the pattern is a little complex for my concentration level. With two little ones running around I get too distracted. So, I bought a new pattern. I will post the name of it later as I am too lazy to get up and find out what it is right now. But anyways, it seems to be really simple. It is not a real difficult lace pattern I am not really sure if you’d even call it lace but what I do know is that I am going to mix an Alpaca silk with a Mohair/ blend. I can hardly wait to start it. Once I complete my daughter’s sock within this next week I will give myself permission to start.

To change the subject, I started reading a book I checked out of the library called Keeping Faith by Jodi Picoult. It was recommended by a friend. So far, the book is holding my attention. I love to read good books I don’t care what genera they are in as long as they are interesting. Anyways the book is about a women and her daughter who are going through a difficult time in there lives following a divorce. The daughter, Faith seeks solace in a new friend who may or may not be imaginary, interesting I must say. When I started reading this book I couldn’t put it down. I even missed the new episode of Footballers’ Wives on BBC America. I never miss that show. I went into Footballers’ Wives withdrawal last year when it was the season finale. So that should say something about this novel.

Well, hopefully, I won’t go crazy trying to decide if I should be reading, knitting or spinning with my free time oh yes and worrying about the weather. And, if that is all I have to worry about than my life is pretty damn good. Well, until next time, happy knitting and spinning.

2006-03-13T07:31:00.000-06:00

The Sock Part 2

2006-03-13T07:26:00.000-06:00

The Shawl Stuff

2006-03-06T08:13:00.000-06:00

Life after the Knitting Olympics!

It is been a week since closing ceremonies of the Knitting Olympics. I found myself not wanting to look at let alone touch knitting or spinning for awhile. For a minute there, I thought I burned myself out. I was really scared. But, that didn’t last long within a few days I was back into it. First, I pulled out my Fair Isle vest and worked on it. I am at the point where I can start knitting the steeks. In addition, My Shoal Water Shawl from Fiber Trends was calling my name so I worked on it. Unfortunately, I am at stopping points with these projects as I need to figure out how work the steeks and the math for the stitch count repeat on the shawl. That is ok because I started working on the socks for my daughter, and the 7 x9 square for Warm up America. I did some spinning too. The Spinning is coming along fine. It is not perfect but I am going knit something with what ever I make. Let me say the 2 pound of roving I bought from the Fold is a lot. It seems like the bag is bottomless. And to think that I have 6 pounds of pencil roving stashed in the closet. Oh no! Actually, the pencil roving spins up quickly. Hind sight being 20/20, I would not of bought 6 pounds of pencil roving but the price was so cheap. It was like $8.00 for a pound. I will probably dye some of the pencil roving to make it more interesting.

The books I ordered finally came in. I will be knitting a vest as a gift for my darling hubby. Depending on when I finish, he may receive it in May for his birthday or in June for Fathers Day. Only time will tell. Well, the little ones are calling me so I must say good bye for now.

Until next time knit and spin on!

2006-03-06T08:06:00.000-06:00

The Books

2006-03-06T08:01:00.000-06:00

The Handspun Yarn!

2006-03-06T07:28:00.000-06:00

The Sock!

2006-02-26T18:46:00.000-06:00

Finished!

I accomplished my goal in completing my vest by closing ceremonies of the Olympics. It was a challenge not because the pattern was particularly hard but it was just trying to stay focused on just one project. It was fun participating in the Knitting Olympics but I don’t like having to knit on a deadline. For me it turned into a job not a fun project... So, I will not be knitting on a deadline anymore in the near future. I like knitting on my time.

To go on, I had a chance to visit Three Bags Full in Northbrook, IL on Saturday. I really think they should rename the shop to Three Bags Full of Themselves. I didn’t have a good experience. I felt like Julia Roberts character in Pretty Women. I had a ton of money to spend but no one even bothered to acknowledge me. I even walked over to the register, nothing. But, I did have an employee start talking to me by mistake. She apparently thought I was some one else as she was talking without looking. And, when she realized that I was some one totally different, she looked startled and walked away. No excuse me, No I am sorry, I miss took you for someone else, but I can I help you or at least are you finding everything ok. No it was just a look of I am surprised to see you here and walked away. I am not really sure what I did if anything. But, hell will freeze over before I spend my money there. Don’t let my experience stop you from going there. Different people have different experiences. Perhaps, I just went on a bad day!

2006-02-23T08:09:00.000-06:00

Quick Update!

I only have 5 more inches to knit and then I can bind off. It seems like it’s taking forever to knit. I am knitting but it’s not growing. Well, anyways, I will have enough yarn despite I didn’t receive my order. So, with the extra that is coming I will make matching vest for my two children. Correct me if I am wrong, but when you purchase yarn I thought you estimate by yardage. According to the label yardage wise, I did have enough. So, that is why I ordered more yarn, however, gram wise it was the right amount. I guess in addition, to working on my vest, I will go through a ton of knitting books to get the correct answer. Oh well!

Knit On

2006-02-22T07:52:00.000-06:00

Good News!

Everything is falling into place. I worked on my spinning all day on Tuesday except for the occasional breaks to feed the children, change diapers, wash clothes , walk the dog etc,, Hmm, some breaks. But, anyways, I think the spinning has clicked. For the most part the drafting is a lot more uniform. However, I was not still getting enough a twist. I called my teachers and they suggested that I need to turn down my Scotch tension. I must say that it seems to be working. I hope that was the problem and not my skills. I really would like to spin some Merino/Silk to knit my husband a light weight cabled vest for Fathers Day. By the way, were can I buy some reasonable priced Merino/Silk yarn for Plan B, just in case it really is my skills.

The Knitting Olympics project is coming along fine. I am in the process of shaping the neck. I could have this baby finished today if I wanted to. That is a nice feeling. I think that I actually may have enough yarn. Oh, by the way, I called the yarn shop and they informed me that my yarn had been sent today which was actually yesterday. We will see though they aren’t off my list yet.

My photographer will be home tonight. So, I will post pictures later.

That is all for now!

2006-02-21T08:02:00.000-06:00

I Think I Can!

I worked on my vest until 11:00 pm last night. I will begin the shaping tonight. There is only about another 9 inches to knit then I am finished with the knitting, this is good because I can’t stop spinning. I am so determined to get it. I just want some uniform yarn. I don’t care if it is thick or thin. I just want it uniform that is it. Is that to much to ask for. It seems like it is either too thick with not enough twist or too thin and too much twist. I know it is practice and I will keep at it, But, it is soooooo frustrating. My ball of yarn is getting larger and that is a good thing. So hopefully after the Knitting Olympics I can start making something with my odd ball yarn.

Well, until next time, Knit On and Spin Too!

2006-02-20T08:17:00.000-06:00

Spank Me!

I have been soo bad by neglecting my knitting Olympics project as I can’t stop spinning. I just knew that was going to happen. My final spinning class was on Saturday. Again, we did drafting. I thought I knew how to draft. However, I learned I was wrong. So I haven’t been able to stop practicing because I feel it is going to click. And, I think it has. The short draw seems to work for me. I find I have more control and the yarn is a bit more uniform. I keep telling myself to leave it alone but I can’t. I need help! May be I should put my wheel in a closet. You know the saying “Out of sight, Out of mine."

Well, I have posted a picture of my vest. I think I will be able to get it done. My goal is to start the shaping by Wednesday. If I can achieve that then I am on my way provided that the yarn I ordered arrives by Thursday. If it doesn’t, then I am screwed and the company I ordered it from is too. As I am going talk really bad about them and they may loose two or three customers because I think only about two or three people actually read my blog. They E-mailed me that it would take 7 to 10 days to receive the yarn as it was a special order. I ordered back on January 31. That is all I am going to say for now! If my yarn doesn’t come by Thursday then you can bet I will be bitching.

Good luck to all that are knitting for the Gold. We can do it!

P.S. That tiny, tiny ball in the back is the yarn I can't stop spinning. It is Merino. I love Merino and the comb Corridale. I will post better pictures later. My darling photographer did a rushed job.

2006-02-17T10:51:00.000-06:00

Update!

Thus far, I am keeping to my schedule. I am even a bit ahead. I finished the back of my vest on Thursday. I started the front of the vest and some the cabling too. I am glad that I decided to challenge myself in completing a project in 16 days. Now I realize that I can get a project done and it doesn’t have to drag on for months. I’d post a picture but I am still waiting for my husband, the photographer to take pictures. He has banned me from using his camera. I will have to share that story with you some time.

Tomorrow is the last of my spinning class. I have really enjoyed them. My spinning skills have greatly improved and I feel like I am on my way. The previous class we learned to draft. I actually did quite well. I am not sure what we will learn tomorrow but I will keep you posted.

2006-02-13T07:32:00.000-06:00

I’m back!

Well, not that it really matters, but the family and I headed down to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida for a weeks vacation. The kiddies had a great time and momma’s feet felt as is I walked to the moon and back. It was pretty busy there considering it was off season. You couldn’t pay me to go during regular season. Well, you could but it would have to be a lot. The weather was absolutely beautiful. It was nice and sunny with a slight cool breeze. It is amazing that a 2.5 hour plan ride can take you from paradise back to the freezing cold. I took some knitting with me, I worked on it while my son napped and my hubby and daughter went on rides. I started a sock for my daughter, and I started my vest for the Knitting Olympics. I will post pictures later. My goal for the vest is to complete the back by this Friday. Hopefully, I can keep fighting off the urge to spin. Every time I look at my wheels, it screams come to me. But, I know I can’t as it will just throw my whole game plan off. I finally spun enough yarn to start a project. I decided I would make a felted purse. I figured the felting would hide some of my not so perfect spinning.

2006-01-31T21:20:00.000-06:00

Finished!

I finally finished my socks that I started in September. Of course, I worked on other projects in between. And, here is the roving I bought from the Fold.

2006-01-30T10:37:00.000-06:00

Yarn Crawl!

This weekend, I went on my first yarn crawl with Erica and Kelly my fellow KTGO members. Let me say that I had a fabulous time. We hit six yarn stores in one day. Needless to say, I was tired by the end of the day. The first stop of the day was at Sunflower Samplings in Crystal Lake. The store had a large selection of yarn and accessories. From there, we proceeded over to the Quietly Wilde Yarn shop in Woodstock. The owner was very friendly but the store is closing at the end of February. Next, we headed over to The Fold in Marengo. I thought I died and gone to Yarn heaven. The Fold was everything I look for in a yarn shop. The customer service was great, the yarn selection was excellent, they had really pretty colored roving and the prices were reasonable. The Fold is the type of yarn shop that is inviting. You want to stay, browse and spend up your money. I buy most of my yarn on the internet; however, after visiting the Fold, I will start going there for some of my yarn purchases and roving. After the Fold, we went to The Yarn Exchange in DeKalb. They had a large selection of Brown Sheep yarn. The store personnel were very friendly and helpful. The last two shops for the day were Wool and Company in Geneva and Fine Line Creative Arts in St. Charles. Wool and Company was a nice store. They had a lot of fun accessories, books and patterns. There yarn selection was nice too. The drive was a bit far for me however, if you are in that areas definitely stop in. Finally, the last stop of the day was Fine Line Creative Art shop. The shop was really small but nice. This shop would be good to attend if you want to learn weaving, dyeing, spinning, crocheting etc.

I made purchases in four of the six shops. I’m happy to say that I didn’t over spend. I’m sure my husband is happy too. I had to buy yarn for my Knitting Olympics project as my mail order roving hasn’t arrived. I bought some Sock that Rocks and really pretty blue roving 2 pounds for $20. You can’t beat that price.

2006-01-29T15:28:00.000-06:00

Tagged!

I have been tagged, so here are my answers.

Four jobs I have had in my life:
Cashier,Receptionis,tAdministrative Assistant,HR Administrative Supervisor

Four Movies I could watch over and over:
Chocolat,Meet the Parents,Jackie Brown,Wizard of OZ

Four Places I have lived:
Chino Hills CA, Bellflower CA, La Mirada CA, Illinois

Four TV shows I love to watch:
Knitty Gritty,Footballer’s Wives,American, IdolOprah

Four Places I Have Been On Vacation:
Mexico,Hawaii,England,Florida

Four Websites I Visit Daily:
Lake County KTOG,Knitters Review,Daily Knitter,Oprah

Four of My Favorite Foods:
Chocolate, Burritos,Chicken Curry,French Fries

Four Places I’d rather be Right Now:
Hawaii,Florida, California,Caribbean

Four Bloggers I am tagging:
Stacy, Chris, Heather, Alma

2006-01-24T07:25:00.000-06:00

I am going for Gold!

Ok, I’m jumping on this Knitting Olympics. bandwagon. My friend, Kelly, planted the seed in my head. And, once I start to mull over an idea I have to do it because there will be no peace for anyone. Thank You Kelly! I think it will be fun because I never finished anything in 16 days and I am up for the challenge. I have decided to knit Boogie as featured in knitty.com. I am even going to spin my own yarn for the project. I will spin like a mad fool night and day for the next two weeks. That should be plenty of time to get my yarn prepared, I hope!

2006-01-23T06:42:00.000-06:00

Is it the wheel or is it me!

It has been a week since I first started spinning and I am catching on really quite well. Spinning is actually easy if you have the bobbin on correctly. Can you believe that it took me an entire week to figure out that the yarn was not feeding properly because the bobbin was backwards! I could not figure out why I could spin relatively well clockwise but once I began to ply using the wheel counter clockwise it just went down hill. I am sure I threw out an entire sheep with the roving I wasted. Thank goodness it was not expensive.

You know, I like this spin and knit as you go. There is no pressure. I can start and stop spinning when needed. I don’t have to worry about remembering where I left off. And, once your nearing the end of your ball of yarn, you stop and spin some more. My new dilemma is what to make. I know it has to be a quick knit as I need instance gratification I am not much of a hat or scarf person so I am thinking of a vest. A vest you ask why? Well, I am not big on knitting sleeves and the yarn is chunky and I have chunky arms. Chunky arms and chunky yarns equal Michelin Man on me.

Now in case you are wondering what is in the photo, no it is not dead rats but yarn. The skein on the left or the large rat, I mean the skein, is what I spun up this weekend. And the smaller skein on the right is the result of my first go with spinning. Which skein looks better?

Finally, in case your wondering about the happy looking dog in the photo, that is Jake. He was a gift for my husband 9 years ago from me. All I can say is, " I should of bought him a tie."

2006-01-16T22:30:00.000-06:00

The Verdict!

I completed my first Spinning Class this past Saturday and the verdict is I absolutely love it. I knew the first moment I began to spin I wanted the challenge of learning to make handspun yarn. In fact, I actually bought a spinning wheel. I did test many before making my selection.
And, I am very pleased with the wheel I choose, the Prelude (an entry level wheel), by Kromskis of Poland. It is not too much wheel but just enough for a beginner and the quality is excellent and the price was right too.

2006-01-11T06:45:00.000-06:00

I’m taking a Spin.

I am so excited, this Saturday; I will be taking my first spinning class. I know your probably wondering why is her blog about knitting and spinning and she can’t even spin. Well, I have answer for that question. I really want to learn and I will. I am realistic it will not happen over night and that is ok.

It is funny because I use to think people that would go through the trouble of spinning their own yarn were nuts. But, I slowly changed my thinking the more I would see the beautiful fiber people were creating themselves. In addition, even though I love to knit there are times in which I want be occupied doing something and knitting is not always the answer. Yet, I still feel the need to be creative, so I thought I will give spinning a whirl.

My first attempt is going to be on a wheel. I know a spindle is out of the question for me right now and I am not saying I wont’ learn. I just heard that while it is cheap and portable compared to a wheel, it just takes a little more to patience to master. And with two children a husband and a dog mine is very limited. But, I can totally see my self on vacation some where with a spindle in hand.

2006-01-05T19:22:00.000-06:00

The Shawl

As promised, here is a photo of the shawl I am working on or should I say will be working on in the near future. I will start to work on it once I complete my Fair Isle vest. I hope to have my vest completed by the first week in February. I had to put my vest down because I was getting a little bored with it. No the truth is I am delaying. I’m getting scared to complete the steeks. I am loosing my nerve a bit. I even considered just knitting the back and front separately and seaming them at the shoulders. But, I decided against it as I already worked out how I want to do the steeks and couldn’t be bothered trying to figure out a different method. So, I will continue with the steeks as planned. The Fair Isle Vest is a test vest. I want to make all my mishaps on it. I wasn’t that thrilled with the colors or the weight of the yarn but it was already in my stash. I would rather mess up on the cheap stuff rather than my Jamieson Shetland wool.

2006-01-03T09:55:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year!

It is the start of a New Year and I am so thankful to be alive and well. I have my loving husband, my darling children and a whole new year of knitting projects. Of course, I still have a few from last year that still need to be completed but that is okay.
I am progressing well on my sock. I am just decreasing the stitches on the heel gusset. This week, my Meet up group is having a sock knitting workshop and I what to have my sock at a point where I can just knit and not worry about shaping. Shaping and talking the two just do not mix. You’re either ignoring the person you’re conversing with or your totally messing up your knitting.

2005-12-30T05:16:00.000-06:00

Tempting and a sock I am currently working on. I am further along than what the photo shows for the sock I have completed the short rows on the heel and now ready to pick up the chain stitches on the side. The yarn I got from Knit Picks. I love Knit Picks their prices are great. Last week I bought some plain yarn to dye next year. Dyeing is another avenue I want to explore. At this point I'm not sure which method I want to use. If anyone has a suggestion let me know.

Tempting

2005-12-30T04:36:00.000-06:00

Tempting

I finally completed Tempting from Knitty.com. I started the project in November and finished it the first part of December which is quick for me. This was the first sweater project that I knit in the round. It was really nice not to seam. I’m not very good at finishing I guess perhaps because I really don’t know how. Finishing is one of my 2006 goals for knitting. I want to master it along with many other things one of which is lace. Lace is harder than what I expected especially when you have little ones interrupting your concentration. I started the Shoal Water Shawl by Fiber Trends back in September. I am just about to start the first repeat. I am at row 63. Erica, my Meet up group member friend has already completed the shawl. She explained to me how to do the repeats but I forgot. It was way back in September. I hate to ask her again she will probably think I’m thick in the skull. But I will, I sure hate to rip especially lace. I know your thinking life lines. Well, yes I have done a few rows of them. I don’t like them either I do just a few in the rare occasion I make a mistake. I will post a picture of my progress in the future.

2005-12-26T19:10:00.000-06:00

Christmas is over. While I really enjoy the festivities of Christmas, it can be really stressful as we all know. With the shopping, running errands to the post office, writing out Christmas cards, planning Christmas dinner, and on top of everything else trying to finish up knitted gifts. I was up until 11:00 pm on Christmas Eve putting the finishing touches on a Knitted Babe doll for my daughter in addition to weaving loose ends on knitted gifts I made.

Here is a photo of the gifts I knitted for my family. My daughter named her doll Jessie. I thought that was a cute name. It made me feel happy because she thought the doll was beautiful even though I forgot to give her a nose. That’s what happens when you’re up finishing at 11:00 PM.

2005-12-18T07:55:00.000-06:00

My knitting journey began in 2003. I was channel surfing the television when I discovered a knitting show. Immediately, I was interested in watching as I had unsuccessfully tried to learn to knit twice before. I intently watched the 30 minute progam and by the end of the show I knew I wanted to give knitting another try. So, that same day I went to the craft store to purchase yarn, needles and enroll in a knitting class. I was determined this time to learn to knit. Well, success was mine. I learned to knit and I even had a knitted handbag to prove it.

Today, my knitting journey still continues. I am currently working on a Fair Isle Vest. The pattern was originally for a simple pullover sweater but I decided to make it a vest as I wanted to do the steek process. In addition to the vest, I am working on a lace shawl. In the near future, I would like to experiment with dyeing yarn and try my hand at spinning.