tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53163579079980847202024-02-18T22:18:42.419-08:00Fiberly Yours.These are the ramblings of inspiration and action with all things fiber in my life.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967736339504991878noreply@blogger.comBlogger25125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5316357907998084720.post-77075294948774480182014-06-27T10:14:00.002-07:002014-06-27T10:14:56.745-07:00This Blog is Moving...All past blog posts and pages have been transferred to my new blog, Zara's Zeal. I will keep the origional blog and pages up but I will not be updated or adding new content to Fiberly Yours. This will be my last post. The reason for this move is even though I still knit a lot, I'm also interested in writing about other non-fiber passions such as bead weaving, drawing and any other future passions (zeal) I may have. Thank you for your support over the years and hope to see you around! - Laura<br />
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NEW BLOG<br />
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EMAIL<br />zaraszeal [!at] gmail.com//Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967736339504991878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5316357907998084720.post-68244293384116249532013-11-19T16:38:00.001-08:002013-11-19T16:38:16.831-08:00Collaborative Projects<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">This past Sunday with my two best friends, I started a collaborative project... It's a project bag that the birthday girl made the foundation and then the body of the bag each of us is responsible for two colors (6 total) where each color stripe is one row of single crochet. This bag can only be worked on while we are together since each row is completed so quickly but it looks beautiful. The results are worth it. The memory behind making this bag with stick with all of us and each time someone asks about it. We've decided that we're enjoying making this bag so much, that we would like to repeat the process so that each of us has one in colors we enjoy. </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Some have made collaborative scarfs and others blankets. Whatever you make, love goes in each stitch. The beauty of this pattern is that we all crochet different tensions even with different hooks... One even the opposite direction but it doesn't negatively impact the project. Try it. You will not be disappointed. Here's a peak; my colors are the dark purple and green. Fusia and white is one friend and the blues are another friend.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4IIZHwKsFwN_eKyl4SwjItX2X78gzPN0GfxyJxXmXPjTQh-5ib7OPJ5cuVbjliIlUpoB0x546n1iKeu0-LF-poxLp9Hkv2A41cwlh77c0pJGrNuiOb0SUshw_DjtIrs4k5TremzVXU566/s640/blogger-image--1611256693.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4IIZHwKsFwN_eKyl4SwjItX2X78gzPN0GfxyJxXmXPjTQh-5ib7OPJ5cuVbjliIlUpoB0x546n1iKeu0-LF-poxLp9Hkv2A41cwlh77c0pJGrNuiOb0SUshw_DjtIrs4k5TremzVXU566/s640/blogger-image--1611256693.jpg"></a></div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> </span><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">The pattern is based on "Colorful Carryall" by Kj Hay in "Crochet Today! Quick and Easy Gifts 2009." </font><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Modifications so far include finer yarn and 6 rather than 8 colors. Eventually planning on braided handles that start at the base with a scallop and picot trim. Final photo to follow.</span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967736339504991878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5316357907998084720.post-70060174092384942102013-08-14T22:41:00.000-07:002013-08-14T22:41:10.641-07:00Among the unpacking was a book on tatting for both shuttle and needle. It was something I was playing with before I started packing. A very crafty friend asked me about it and at this point I had only tried needle tatting. I purchased a shuttle years ago... shortly after my four year old son was born but never learned. So today I took the time to find videos and sites to learn just that. The tatting page with links and resources is the result. Youtube has been great. On Pintrest I have discovered MANY useful links, images and videos. God, I can easily loose time on that site.<br />
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I'm finding shuttle tatting has it's perks. You never need to determine needle size because shuttle will turn out perfect every time (unless technical issues prevail). Hell, if you're trying it out you don't even need a shuttle. A plastic thread holder or piece of cardboard is enough to start learning on. Shuttle tatting is flexible whereas needle tatting can be tricky in some patterns. Shuttles are beautiful and customizable. Shuttle tatting can be done on an airplane whereas needle tatting isn't allowed. You can use finer beads. There is potential for less joining threads to weave in at the end and less misgauging how much working thread vs tail is needed. Most importantly, for me I feel my tension is better even though I have less experience shuttle tatting than needle tatting. I honestly didn't think I would enjoy it so much, but I do.<br />
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If you're starting something new, it's great to see how others have interpreted the same pattern (like on Ravelry). You never know what patterns you would have passed because of color, gauge or original shaping but if you look at what others have done, you might fall head over heels with someone else's modifications. I have also found others leave useful notes to improve upon technique or typo fixes that would have otherwise left me frustrated. <br />
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Bottom line, give shuttle tatting a try.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967736339504991878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5316357907998084720.post-84837263637920234282013-08-08T15:33:00.002-07:002013-08-12T09:19:21.545-07:00Knitting with Friends<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvMnRoCXx-DLQIW0vtdYo0l5kK1HVJGm-TthT2IanDAVIDvtRY87LJZzkYY7Gz2P9vabBpxN1uLZ5y-fSdxOfoBr3JI3qVn9VwCavedpMyJxbPfbnBGJ_WUuZcC3gYqa4ML3GFoMLTm7oL/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvMnRoCXx-DLQIW0vtdYo0l5kK1HVJGm-TthT2IanDAVIDvtRY87LJZzkYY7Gz2P9vabBpxN1uLZ5y-fSdxOfoBr3JI3qVn9VwCavedpMyJxbPfbnBGJ_WUuZcC3gYqa4ML3GFoMLTm7oL/s320/photo+2.JPG" width="239" /></a>We just moved into our new place and sorting through and reorganizing craft supplies has brought out so many forgotten projects I intended to finish but hadn't or have not even started. Among them was a <a href="http://ravel.me/lauramjsk/ropbb2" target="_blank">baby pinwheel blanket</a> I promised to knit for a retirement home gift shop. It's going to be white, yellow and green. All pastels. My goal is to finish it by the 20th. I had to refresh on the disappearing loop method but I'm now going strong on it. After the first few rows, the rest of the pattern repeats. This is a fabulous pattern to knit with others because you don't need to pay attention to details.<br />
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I still have a fair amount of stashed yarns left in storage. I found an old chenille blanket I started for one of my boys but never got to finish. Since the required hook is ginormous, it's a quick stash buster project that I'm thinking will be soon on the horizon. I want to finish what I started. Get it all done. Clear out space for new inspirations. <br />
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Poppy Fairy<br />
Last month I managed complete 25% of the pattern (beading, outlining and finishing not included). It's looking great and more like a fairy. I discovered I find cross stitch relaxing, especially if it's blocks of color rather than intricate constant color change. There is a pattern in a British magazine that I absolutely adore, that says "Life is just peachy when you're as cool as a cucumber but sometimes it's fun to just go bananas." I think it will suit my style well while looking good in my kitchen. <br />
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I subscribe digitally to "Cross Stitch Collection" on my ipad. I love that I have patterns while I'm on the go so I can easily get supplies I need as well as zooming in on hard to see areas of a pattern. If you haven't tried getting magazines digitally, it's great. You can also print out single patterns that you can mark up and modify.<br />
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Anyway, Happy Stitches! Picture updates soon to follow.<br />
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<em>Edit: added project photo of Pinwheel Blanket.</em></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967736339504991878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5316357907998084720.post-92200792617094274502013-01-19T12:25:00.001-08:002013-01-19T12:35:30.248-08:00Poppy Fairy by Joan ElliotMarriages hit their rough patches especially when there is a lot of change to cope with. My husband and I had a bit of a break just over a year ago. Our reconcile date was 11-11-11, Remembrance Day. In honor of that date that we really committed to change, for Valentine's Day I'm sewing Poppy Fairy by Joan Elliot.<br />
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As an aside, if you haven't tried getting magazines on your tablet, I highly recommend it. Easily bookmark and zoom in on patterns. You have access to your thread stash list and more on the go so you don't over buy. International and back issues can be a few dollars cheaper or even significantly less than buying in print. You always have access to them to download, and supplemental freebies are now being added to the end of the magazine. If you have young children or are prone to coffee spills, this is great. You can also print just the patterns you need. Cross Stitch Collection (awesome fairy patterns) and Cross Stitcher are two brilliant magazines from the same publishers with different themes that offer a free back issue to test. I can't remember the last time I went on such a magazine spree. <br />
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Fabricland sells Aida to cut. The roll was a smidgen dirty where she cut so she added a bit more fabric to cut around and marked it half off. It worked out to paying $2 for the fabric for this project and I have plenty left for two more. Membership for students is available and membership is significantly worth it. I saved what I paid for it in one trip. <br />
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If you're local to Kelowna, Kelowna Yarn and Needle Crafts (http://www.kelyarn.com) had all the colors I needed (Michaels sold out half the colors I needed and are better organized with better quality notions - no substitutions needed). I was given some really good pointers to keep my project sewing smoothly. <br />
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It's been so long since I've cross stitched. I started a mysewingcircle.com project page. I got my threads all organized. I bought all my notions. I've posted a picture of what I've done so far. I'll post more pictures as I go along. Wish me luck! <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheYZyFe7ObDQZmROS4Y1wqpqX1t2ufCjWxiYZgbmIA4P_0t-Z8Jq76pzW7Ww2WbxzB3o01urkCshCIlBM8IIqOjHXCQRcEXj1vcjOb4OL4tWpXzIoBqJQAMjRNkb9P0LZImDOXUNUWTLOf/s640/blogger-image-99041460.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheYZyFe7ObDQZmROS4Y1wqpqX1t2ufCjWxiYZgbmIA4P_0t-Z8Jq76pzW7Ww2WbxzB3o01urkCshCIlBM8IIqOjHXCQRcEXj1vcjOb4OL4tWpXzIoBqJQAMjRNkb9P0LZImDOXUNUWTLOf/s640/blogger-image-99041460.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967736339504991878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5316357907998084720.post-69841052196308426312013-01-01T15:30:00.001-08:002013-01-01T15:30:08.927-08:00My Sewing Circle and the First CutSo cool discovery. There is a Ravelry equivalent for sewing in the works. It's still in early development and the community is still building but it's worth checking out if you haven't already. Seeing different color or alteration ideas for sewing and tracking my tools, library and notions is fabulous! My username on there is the same as Ravelry so look me up :)<br />
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That aside, Christmas break was short and needed. I thought I was going to get a ton of crafting done but all the holiday preparations, visiting and relaxing took over. So today in the new year I'm getting getting organized for my first patterned project since sewing classes as a child. My fabric is washed and air drying. Almost ready to iron. I've done some reading on machine sewing. I chose some cheap fabric so I wouldn't be upset if it didn't turn out right but that backfired; I love the fabric! I'm nervous cutting it. It's like that blank canvas a painter stares at before the first stroke. I will post pictures later. So here goes!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967736339504991878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5316357907998084720.post-31949994225262618752012-12-18T19:56:00.003-08:002012-12-18T19:56:38.274-08:00New Fiber FrontierUp until the lace scarf I started last week, it's been over a year since I picked up some knitting needles... But I have a good reason. I became a student and this spring I will be a NURSE! It's one of the last accelerated classes before they tack on another year. I'm excited about what the future will hold and all the new experiences I will have however it really cuts into my creative time. <br />
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I started thinking. I want comfy scrubs that are stylish. I have the hardest time finding clothes that fit just right. Solution: I got a sewing machine. So Fiberly Yours will now include sewing (not just knitting and crochet). Since Friday, I've made a pair of lounge pants, fixed my son's favorite blankie, my iPad bag, and made a few bags for storage.<br />
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Scrub-a-licious<br />
This winter break I will also be making my own scrubs. I've been reading up on the basics of pattern and fabric prep. I can't wait. I will post pictures in the future of the completed set. I found this fabric in the clearance section of Fabricland for $5/M. I also have my eyes on a shamrock pattern and though I'm not one for flowers, there is a beautiful blue shaded flower print I have my heart set on. Only down side... it isn't going to take long to build a sizable fabric stash comparable to my yarn stash. Double trouble.<br />
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Anyway, for now, here is the pattern and fabric (the lighting with my ipad camera didn't capture the navy blue essence of the fabric) I have selected:<br />
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I will be making the short sleeved shirt and pants. Cool thing... I can modify the pockets to overlap and add a watch loop. The perks of making your own clothing and accessories ^_^</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967736339504991878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5316357907998084720.post-62085123804928184132011-07-24T11:20:00.000-07:002011-07-24T11:20:47.342-07:00Scary SocksI know many beginners who get stuck on knitting a gazillion scarves or blankets simply because they don't believe the have what it takes to complete other projects that appear substantially more complicated. The problem with these 'safe' and simple projects is that there are only so much you need and can give away but more importantly knitting confidence is built by challenging yourself a little more each time. Many sock phase out their commercial socks in favor of persomally made ones. Just think of all the techniques you'd need to master to do a variety of different pairs!<br />
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<b>How should I pick my first pattern?</b><br />
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For your first sock, find a plain (stockinette stitch or garter stitch) pattern with sport or worsted weight yarn like this cuff down pattern "<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/socks-101-3">Socks 101</a>" by Larissa Brown or this "<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/simple-toe-up-anklets">Simple Toe Up Anklets</a>" by Rachel Calado (the only thing I'd change for beginners is that I'd use a set of double pointed needles -- dpns -- instead). Either pattern will knit up quick and give you the basic construction techniques to build the confidence to work on more complex sock patterns. After you complete your first plain pair (or two pairs --- one of each technique), most other sock patterns will then just add different stitch patterns which depend on your experience level.<br />
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<b>Toe Up or Cuff Down? --- Does it matter?</b><br />
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In a nutshell, no. There are two methods for constructing your own socks that basically depend on which end you start at, cuff down or toe up. Neither method is more complicated but typically knitters will have a clear preferance because of the techniques involved that can be initially scary and very different for the aspiring sock knitter. Top down socks you'll have to deal with Kitchener stitch, picking up stitches and gussets where as toe up you'll probably deal with short rows and basic increases/decreases. Youtube is the best for visual learning but also check out <a href="http://techknitting.blogspot.com/">techknitter</a>'s
blog --- she's great for preventing/correcting issues and multiple
variations.<br />
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Either direction you work the sock, you'll be knitting in the round with double pointed needles (dpns) or circular needles (magic loop method uses one circular needle or you can use two circular needles). I recommend starting with dpns. Frequently knitters use two circular needles to knit two socks at the same time. Although this method may seem slow, your socks are garenteed to match row for row. Less known, dpns can actually be used to knit two socks at a time, one inside the other and this looks really cool (check out my <a href="http://fiberlyyours.blogspot.com/p/best-youtube.html">youtube links</a> to see what that looks like and how to do other techniques). <br />
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<b>Where do I go from here?</b><br />
When you feel ready after completing your first pair of plain socks, I highly recommend looking into the following designers/books. As with any other pattern, make sure you have all the errata before you start. Some patterns will not have errata printed but you'll find it in project notes of other completed projects on Ravelry -- just sort the patterns by helpful notes first. Also you might also find pattern modications or color schemes you haven't thought of but prefer.<br />
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<ul>
<li>Cookie A wrote a couple of amazing books (<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/sock-innovation">Sock Innovation</a> and recently published, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/knit-sock-love">Knit. Sock. Love.</a>) and some of the designs are stellar if you're comfortable or want to be comfortable with lace and cables. I love her explanations on construction and inspiration. <br /> </li>
<li><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/the-joy-of-sox">The Joy of Socks</a> is one of my favorite sock books. It's a collection from mulitple designers and the patterns use a multitued of different techniques garenteed to build your knitting skills. <br /> </li>
<li>The free eZine Knitty has some great ones as well: Here are a few: </li>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/skew">Skew</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/blackrose-socks">Blackrose Socks</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/double-heelix">Double Heelix</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/garden-gate-socks">Garden Gate</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/pomatomus">Pomatomus </a>(this is one of Cookie A's free patterns if you want sample one of her patterns)</li>
<li><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/lingerie">Lingerie</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/maeva-2">Maeva</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/celtic-triad">Celtic Triad</a></li>
</ul>
</ul>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967736339504991878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5316357907998084720.post-12600650198339113572011-07-23T07:30:00.000-07:002011-07-23T07:30:29.744-07:00Book Review: The Essential Stitch Collection<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<i><b>The Essential Stitch Collection</b>: A Creative Guide to the 300 Stitches Every Knitter Really Needs to Know</i> by <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/s?_encoding=UTF8&search-alias=books-ca&field-author=Lesley%20Stanfield">Lesley Stanfield</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/s?_encoding=UTF8&search-alias=books-ca&field-author=Melody%20Griffiths">Melody Griffiths</a><br />
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There are many stitch guides on the market but this one really sets itself apart from the rest not just in design but the variety of techniques in the visually pleasing stitch patterns available. Here is a list of the features I loved:</div>
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<li>Each chapter has a <b>gallery of images</b> of all the stitches found in that chapter. It's great for comparing what's available to get the best possible pattern for your project.<br /> </li>
<li>The stitches are not so similar like other stitch guides; you'll see how to achieve different affects so you can produce your own variations. I love their chapter of <b>unusual stitch patterns </b>and <b>celtic knot patterns</b> in the stranded/intarsia section.<br /> </li>
<li>There is a good basic section on <b>how to include the patterns</b> in your own designs including <b>how to deal with shaping</b>.<br /> </li>
<li>There is a pull out <b>flap at the end of the book with a list of abbreviations</b> you'll see in the chart keys. Speaking of chart keys, there is a <b>sharred key on the bottom of each left page</b> for each different symbol used on the two facing pages (which sometimes spills into the right page depending on how many symbols are used). This is great for beginners or even the advance knitter who might forget the abbreviations of less used techniques. </li>
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I would have liked to see borders but one of the authors has already written a book on <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/150-Knitted-Trims-Beautiful-Decorative/dp/0312363257/ref=sr_1_7?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1311269634&sr=1-7">borders and trimmings</a>. Check it out, I'm giving it 5 of 5 stars easy.</div>
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<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967736339504991878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5316357907998084720.post-42668632430266869762011-07-19T00:47:00.000-07:002011-07-23T07:33:45.836-07:00A Magical FairwellThis week marks the end of one of the most popular movie series of all time, Harry Potter. To celebrate the finale, many fiber enthusiasts are showing their love for the series by coming up with some truly amazing patterns, some with really innovated techniques. Even if you are a casual knitter, check out these patterns and challenge yourself to make something different and fun.<br />
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<b>Best of Hand Knits</b><br />
If you haven't seen some of the work by <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/designers/steve-plummer">Steve Plummer</a> of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/woolly-thoughts">Wooly Thoughts</a>, you're missing out. At first glance head on, it looks like an ordinary striped blanket but then as you continue passing by, it catches the corner of your eye and an amazing photo realistic image appears as if by magic. The technique is surprisingly simple. Strategically placed purls on plain stockinette striped fabric create this effect. He has five Harry Potter designs among others, you just have to check them out. Prices for his patterns vary but <a href="http://www.illusionknitting.woollythoughts.com/">his website</a> has free tutorials for designing your own which is very cool<br />
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Although I haven't seen any images or looked deeply into it, it appears <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/designers/terry-bradford">Terry Bradford</a> has tried converting a couple of Steve's Harry Potter patterns into crochet. It might be worth looking into if you strongly prefer crochet.<br />
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<b>Best of Crochet</b><br />
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<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/designers/todd-a-paschall">Todd Paschall</a> founded a technique called <a href="http://www.crochetbynumbers.com/">crochet by numbers</a>. These pieces are gorgeous and photo realistic at any angle. I has done portraits in crochet of several famous people and since added several stunning nature scenes. There is a great article in Crochet Today about <a href="http://www.crochetbynumbers.com/article.pdf">him and how it began</a>. What does this have to do with Harry Potter? One of his fans, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/designers/lee-mac">Lee Mac</a> (totallee) who is also a fan of Harry Potter figured out her own method for generating these amazing patterns (unfortunately both have kept details of their designing methods a secret). All of her patterns are free and she does offer <a href="http://totallee.net/faq.php">her own technique tips</a> in addition to the<a href="http://www.crochetbynumbers.com/Training-Tools.html"> tutorials on Todd's site</a> along with many stunning gallery images. She also has a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/totalleenet-off-the-hook">Ravelry group</a> dedicated to this method.<br />
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<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/designers/megan-mcduffee">Megan McDuffee</a> has her own method and wrote how to crochet your very own photo realistic Harry Potter blanket (or whoever else you wish to snuggle up in). Details can be found in her pattern page for her. <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/harry-potter-blanket">Harry Potter Blanket</a>. <b><br /></b><br />
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<b>A Few Smaller Projects with Great Appeal</b><br />
Here are a few smaller projects I found on Ravelry that I absolutely love (*Free PDF or Website):<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/gryffindor-cami">Gryffindor Cami</a>*</li>
<li><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/harry-potter-uniform-sweater">Harry Potter Uniform Sweater</a>*</li>
<li>House Pride Knee High Socks: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/hufflepuff-pride-socks">Hufflepuff </a>| <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ravenclaw-pride-socks">Ravenclaw </a>| <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/gryffindor-pride-socks">Gryffindor </a>| <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/slytherin-pride-socks">Slytherin</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/hermiones-scarf">Hermione's Scarf</a>* </li>
<li><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/sorting-hat">Sorting Hat</a>*</li>
<li><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/wizard-robe">Wizard Robe</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/mandrake-plant">Mandrake Root</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/dobby-the-house-elf">Dobby</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/harry-hopper">Harry Hopper</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/hp-house-fair-isle-pouch-bags">HP Fair Isle Pouch</a>*</li>
<li><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/gryffindor-iphone-cosy">Gryffindor iPhone Cozy</a>*</li>
</ul>
<div>
If you're looking to make something but are willing to </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967736339504991878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5316357907998084720.post-34967229592466421442011-07-16T11:38:00.000-07:002011-07-18T12:20:05.244-07:00Bridal Lelah Modifications<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0XRoSymi2GZreCCcggbSw0zHozo4jirmrw6I8hLzG5zzcijXzymYzEqDlHwm8uAWHg7zi2xGsIrQ0pHUAgGBQyYnpO7A_fXB5wr84mQE7oMyXBmmIXmGEDA81H2QnJYN0TqLxpCvcWsLP/s1600/P1030675.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0XRoSymi2GZreCCcggbSw0zHozo4jirmrw6I8hLzG5zzcijXzymYzEqDlHwm8uAWHg7zi2xGsIrQ0pHUAgGBQyYnpO7A_fXB5wr84mQE7oMyXBmmIXmGEDA81H2QnJYN0TqLxpCvcWsLP/s1600/P1030675.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0XRoSymi2GZreCCcggbSw0zHozo4jirmrw6I8hLzG5zzcijXzymYzEqDlHwm8uAWHg7zi2xGsIrQ0pHUAgGBQyYnpO7A_fXB5wr84mQE7oMyXBmmIXmGEDA81H2QnJYN0TqLxpCvcWsLP/s320/P1030675.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="294" /></a></div>
<i>After trying it on I decided a straight tube top isn't flattering for my body type so I changed to my liking. Here is a list of the mods:</i><br />
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Provisional cast on and bound it off with a <b>picot bind off </b>for extra stretch.<br />
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<b>No elastic</b> in the hem, <b>no ribbon</b> in eyelets (I was considering a monk cord but it ended up looking like country embroidery with purple yarn --- not good for a wedding)<br />
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<b>Bust darts</b> (12 short rows total; six stitches out from the beginning of round and halfway marker then every 3 stitch)<br />
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<b>1 cm hem</b> up on the very top sewn with no fold line.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkMKggZJxwSkOmkzuqSp60VOTIv_eN9IlFgsRQ6jPDK1wDmnaL1crsqYQl1w6qyKB-Rl1Rny0go7fdcFS_vk2E0yJ4FhgeYIIDMYB8c9Na5CtofjeqRaXrlsXFApxM6dIFhQHaE5LFZc4b/s1600/P1030677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkMKggZJxwSkOmkzuqSp60VOTIv_eN9IlFgsRQ6jPDK1wDmnaL1crsqYQl1w6qyKB-Rl1Rny0go7fdcFS_vk2E0yJ4FhgeYIIDMYB8c9Na5CtofjeqRaXrlsXFApxM6dIFhQHaE5LFZc4b/s320/P1030677.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
<b>Sweetheart or light v-shaped bust by using a gather</b>. In the very middle of the bust, I threaded up every 5th row between one column of stitches and back down the other side of that column of stitches. When I tried it on, I adjusted gather by removing both bottom stitches and tied the yarn inside to the desired gathered tension. I'm very happy I did short row shaping because this after thought gather caused the front to ride up a bit.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiydRjyUhf0RVfcLPzb_ZFZv3OwN4fJ9QY7V5u6IDg-Y0ofVAZBIFidKCal_Mh7yvYDXKlGFHrgGt7nYLoiVoho5bW-Ncto9AaT-hDaf33e-Smw7l4oQxxhtp2fbTy6Mfr8lxrB9aMFHlmn/s1600/P1030678.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiydRjyUhf0RVfcLPzb_ZFZv3OwN4fJ9QY7V5u6IDg-Y0ofVAZBIFidKCal_Mh7yvYDXKlGFHrgGt7nYLoiVoho5bW-Ncto9AaT-hDaf33e-Smw7l4oQxxhtp2fbTy6Mfr8lxrB9aMFHlmn/s320/P1030678.JPG" width="320" /></a>I added <b>straps that cross in the back </b>based on the bra I'm wearing for the wedding (the back of the bra straps actually are detachable). When I hemmed the top, I skipped the stitches where the strap would be by sewing into the purl bumps and continued along. The are 10 sts wide in St st (the first of the 10 is slipped every row for a neater edge).<br />
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I did add a short tube for my strap to fit in so the straps would always cover my bra (see right). To knit the tube I added 2 sts and joined in the round. When I switched back to rows, I decreased two stitches. While hemming, I reserved 5 sts in the back which ended up being too thin overall for the back because of the bra clips. I kept the straps the same 10 sts across till the very end where I did a row of k2tog across, purled a row then grafted them together. I used <a href="http://techknitting.blogspot.com/2007/05/easier-way-to-kitchener-stitch-also.html">techknitter's kitchener stitch with knitting needles</a> for the grafting. If you haven't tried it, it works great especially if you don't have a tapestry needle handy.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967736339504991878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5316357907998084720.post-85697227831051310632011-07-06T17:24:00.000-07:002011-07-09T11:15:58.608-07:00H is for Hospital<b>9:50a </b>It's a beautiful sunny morning by Okanagan lake with a comfortable breeze and a babbling fountain. Unfortunately I'm not here with my boys having an ice cream. Instead also in the background are buses changing and lively conversations. H is the letter on my transfer today as I wait to transfer to my next bus that will take me to the hospital to check out my kidneys. I've had issues with them since last September.<br />
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<b>10:25a</b> I'm now in the waiting room.I thought with all the waiting I'd be doing that I'd be getting so much more done but knitting in public is like wearing a sign saying, "Talk to me! I'm approachable." People are genuinely interested in what I'm working on and the conversations that spring off of that seem to go in any direction. It's not common for people to knit their own wedding dress.<br />
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<b>4:45p</b> I'm now home with a clean bill of health -- no follow up necessary.<br />
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I'm excited because I'm very close to finishing my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/lauramjsk/lelah-top">Bridal Lelah</a> top -- I can't wait! Also, I was reading the current issue Vogue Knitting and I found out there is a new HBO series called "The Knitting Circle" starring Kathrine Heigl. I looked for a pilot date but so far I haven't found anything. There is also a movie due to release in 2013 called "<a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0840327/">The Friday Night Knitting Club.</a>" Julia Roberts is supposed to be involved but it wasn't specified if she is producing or acting. I think it's right up her alley and knitting could use some more great publicity.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967736339504991878noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5316357907998084720.post-62115361627941109242011-06-30T12:56:00.000-07:002011-07-09T11:17:06.853-07:00Designer Stitch Markers for Hand KnitsThis morning I felt inspired to make some designer stitch markers similar to those you see in fancy yarn boutiques. I pulled out some nylon coated stainless steel beading wire, some gemstone beads (rose quartz, hematite, sunstone), wire cutters (or nail clippers), crimping beads and pliers. Here is the end result:<br />
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</div><div style="background-color: transparent; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-fg-ihycqgyM0KIQpOxEIWkcrhwGHT3DRyYgAhAapbS5lkBnWH0ksgF8U4qBl_ueGBMck1E_s_IqRcIwq42XgtiiO819rC-oxWCOzVCOn37urGOMwvRLeOrQZeseDziPUZ_TpU4Fsvgly/s400/P1030593.JPG" /></div></div><div style="background-color: transparent; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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</div></div><div style="background-color: transparent; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglRSTe7hj7_zoXOqNG7u8RxjIFXG9Y4qnP8btBuA_YnYUSNNnaGrD7cayLD0CsdrEecg7CLwmy_pbTFdBUjouD4n5B2qUQf5vjo0QNLeje448ZlvqsMD2BIiPiZFNQMfblHvG2imIJRNGq/s400/P1030587.JPG" /></div></div></div></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967736339504991878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5316357907998084720.post-23214641145621586752011-06-25T08:55:00.000-07:002011-07-09T11:15:46.247-07:00Bridal Lelah: The Swatch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></div>One of my least favorite tasks when starting a project is producing an accurate swatch. Many times I've compared the yard/gram ratio and picked a yarn that matched almost exactly. Since I want consistency in the yarn I chose for my wedding attire, that would not work for this pattern. Besides, it's a recipe pattern which means you knit a swatch and it tells you how to calculate the pattern so it fits you perfectly. No fussing with letter sizes or a schematic.<br />
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If your pattern is knit in the round your swatch needs to be knit in the round. If you don't like fussing around with dpns and want a relatively quick swatch that appears to be knitted flat, you can knit your swatch on circular needles. This method is like knitting an i-cord only with a hell of a lot more stitches. When you get to the end of your row you slide your stitches to the other end of the circular knitting and continue knitting with the right side facing you.<br />
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Unlike the i-cord, you'll carry yarn across much like a very long float in fair isle color knitting. Don't pull the string too tight or you'll strain your hands with every stitch. Also as you knit, your end stitches will be very distorted so make sure you knit about 10 extra stitches on each end or in this case I did an extra lace repeat on each end. <br />
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When your swatch is long enough, tighten the looser end stitches working bottom up with every float then cut the float in the middle so you can lay your swatch flat. I tied the end fringes together to make sure it stayed together. So finally my swatch is done. Here is what it looks like pre-blocking.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJgA8gKJ2u2vGqlIfiK7eozNJQtAsCG-g-bHqZgfZ7FrRizK7bVTztUu_UN0X6s_aYs_1JyrySM3qxYa3kfERBznzxxJDXchCmb4zHTGelDNrQJE8xRCV4Bo5jui7B3hXr9X5R2v2x-CdM/s1600/P1030491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJgA8gKJ2u2vGqlIfiK7eozNJQtAsCG-g-bHqZgfZ7FrRizK7bVTztUu_UN0X6s_aYs_1JyrySM3qxYa3kfERBznzxxJDXchCmb4zHTGelDNrQJE8xRCV4Bo5jui7B3hXr9X5R2v2x-CdM/s400/P1030491.JPG" /></a></div><br />
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Last night, after I washed, blocked and dried it, I measured my gauge in a couple areas to make sure I have an accurate SPI count. I then calculated out the pattern and voila! It's ready to knit. I did my provisional cast on so today I can start fresh with the lace. I'm excited. Happy knitting!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967736339504991878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5316357907998084720.post-87048708065299160382011-06-18T15:22:00.000-07:002011-07-09T11:17:06.854-07:00Correcting your Tension in Hand KnitsSince I usually knit in the round and rarely purl (if I do it's sporadic, usually in lace), my tension during purl stitches have loosened up over the past year. Some knitters knit looser while other purl looser. The affect can be shown in the following photos. <div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1pA8hVhlotT96kOCeiBQPyBPmVv5sAhjiXK6wxH3NGItLsIc7Nvt9j4WwXhYtC0z7HV6B8SHWg5bzA6Ytqyd8zulCcERfIXxQtebNeNJQiyORLJhAePW7GCUGBNXqCXEKc0atZsxjCqKO/s200/P1030470.JPG" /><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3rehj7Kdd8NNha__8Q2nUWuPCJhjUpfgqy2SdocB_COFtLf9AYKHvFTwvBR8Rlx_SFIqhf0Wot6qPz42C3xHTpQJXr-w1lnnyjGVgnQwBLCdM-WMYq-7S9wlbFxHQIE-2yqovpkUtSGOt/s200/P1030474.JPG" /></div><br />
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The first photo is the affect that uneven knitting has on the right side of stockinette. Some "V" stitches are longer than the row above. On the back side the uneven stitches are even more pronounced with visible rows. I searched google for a solution and answers ranged across the board:<br />
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I remember a while back someone online said it would block out but this simply did NOT happen for me. Maybe overtime it would but till then, my knitting would look sloppy. Not what I was looking for.<br />
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<ul><li>use a different stitch that doesn't highlight your uneven knitting (this can alter your over all gauge)</li>
</ul><ul><li>knit in the round and go seamless (not always possible)</li>
</ul><ul><li>use two different sized needles; the smaller sized needle for the type you knit looser (essentially a crutch) </li>
</ul><ul><li>figure out which stitch you knit looser and consciously change your tension until your tension change is satisfactory. This is the most timely solution, possibly the most frustrating, and can be the hardest but it isn't a quick fix or avoidance like the others. </li>
</ul>So how do you figure out which is looser, your knit or purl? The method I liked best was on <a href="http://knittsings.com/how-to-diagnose-and-fix-stockinette-tension-problems-to-improve-hand-knitting-for-tkga-swatches/">knittsing's blog</a>. Essentially you cast on about 20 or so stitches and knit a swatch with alternating color bands, 4 rows each, carrying the color loosely up the side (I preferred using 6 rows). <br />
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When you're done bind off and turn your swatch so the rev St st side is facing you. Stick a needle or pin in the ridge then turn your swatch to the St st side. If it's in an odd row (1,3,5) than your knit stitches are loose. If it's in an even row (2,4,6) than your purl stitches are loose. <br />
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After that I'd practice a bit with your new tension without distraction until it becomes second nature. Problem solved. Swatching and figuring out which stitch I made looser took about 15 minutes. Playing with my yarn tension and practicing afterwards took probably another 20 minutes but the tension is sticking and it showed in my work.<br />
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After I corrected my tension using this method, the backside lost the visible gaps between rows and the front looked even.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-fjJNwxG0GIu7usZc-JGptq8vmC18QH8i565Lg9_eXi378vmCQVlqTS1rQfHEVz8yHBd1GpG7nrbEcB4T-vjtb7PdjH1VVOadEVayNdc3WRYNnGRBUphNxvT4plTTWa_0iJ0WM4y6UpWg/s200/P1030477.JPG" /></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967736339504991878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5316357907998084720.post-14016336472165413942011-06-14T16:11:00.000-07:002011-07-09T11:15:46.248-07:00Shrug ModifiedGauge: 5 sts per inch<br />
Needle: Set of 5 #6 Dps<br />
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Using crochet provisional cast on, cast on 56 sts; 14 sts per needle. <br />
Tip: put a stopper on the beginning of round needle. Whenever you get back to that dpn, you have to move the stopper to the end of the working dpn, which makes it easier not to forget to count that row.<br />
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Knit 4 rounds ending the last round 1 st before marker, m1r, k1.<br />
Next Round: k1, m1L. [58]<br />
Repeat last 5 rounds 6 more times. [70]<br />
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Knit 6 rounds ending the last round 1 st before marker, m1r, k1.<br />
Next Round: k1, m1L. [72]<br />
Repeat last 7 rounds 2 more times. [76]<br />
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Knit 7 rounds. <br />
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Switch to rows and continue St st until about 25" across. Check out <a href="http://fiberlyyours.blogspot.com/2011/06/correcting-your-tension-in-hand-knits.html">my blog entry on tension</a>.<br />
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Knit 7 rounds.<br />
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First round: k to 1 st before marker, ssk, k1.<br />
Next Round: k1, k2tog knit to marker. [74]<br />
Knit 5 rounds.<br />
Repeat last 7 rounds 2 more times. [70]<br />
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First round: k to 1 st before marker, ssk, k1. <br />
Next round: k1, k2tog knit to marker. [68]<br />
Knit 3 rounds.<br />
Repeat last 5 rounds 6 more times. [56]<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyFVeESqDoORBBDlUWJMN0eHGnkuWwvjgjqaoGOa9r1g9cdSPyBDR6sE7ZCNU7nwBrLs-rvFDXQPLLHrBUVW60OcWIIZ3EDGa-HTJ0NY25e54umHPhJyaCbJW4F4dqn3Q3D7CDPdMgumdz/s1600/lace+cuff.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyFVeESqDoORBBDlUWJMN0eHGnkuWwvjgjqaoGOa9r1g9cdSPyBDR6sE7ZCNU7nwBrLs-rvFDXQPLLHrBUVW60OcWIIZ3EDGa-HTJ0NY25e54umHPhJyaCbJW4F4dqn3Q3D7CDPdMgumdz/s1600/lace+cuff.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Key: [ ] K [~] P [O] YO</div><br />
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Work rows 1-9 of lace chart. Repeat rows 5-9 until cuff is desired length (approximatively 4"). Cast off in picot bind off.<br />
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<div>Remove provisional cast on on other arm and work rows 1-9 of lace chart. Repeat rows 5-9 until cuff is desired length (approximately 4"). Cast off in picot bind off.<br />
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Weave in ends; block as desired.<br />
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967736339504991878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5316357907998084720.post-15588848258144661032011-06-14T12:02:00.000-07:002011-07-09T11:15:46.249-07:00Yes to the Dress!<div>Rather than going for a traditional dress, I'm knitting a skirt and a top. I found a pattern a while back called Intolerable Cruelty that I absolutely love. Although it is nice enough for a wedding I prefer the traditional floor length where you can't see your shoes. I started knitting it on the first this month but I approached my knee length, I needed to figure out how I wanted my skirt to end. I needed inspiration and I needed it fast. So back track a bit, and my dad surprised me with a Groupon a couple weeks ago for my favorite local yarn store. Art of Yarn has so many different books and patterns that my local bookstores just don't carry --- tons of potential. As I was flipping through Annie Modesitt's book, Romantic Hand Knits the pages... there it was. A floor length white skirt called Now Voyager that I couldn't see the model's toes. Perfect! So here is my list of modifications:<br />
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<ul><li>Because of the yarn I choose and my gauge, I knit the pattern using the 1X instructions.<br />
</li>
<li>Instead of reverse stockinette stitch for the pack panel, I just knit through the back loop.<br />
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<li>In the last decrease row of the shaping, rather than decrease by four stitches, I decreased by two stitches. This gave me a stitch count of 252 which allowed me to start at band 3 of the Now Voyager pattern. Beware: I made the mistake of starting on band 2 forgetting that 252 is the stitch count after completing the increases for band 2.<br />
</li>
<li>I don't like the slip stitch rectangular detail on the skirt so to make it plain stockinette like the top of the skirt, I just knit where it said to slip the stitch. </li>
</ul>I currently am working on band 7. Since each band has a different amount of rows, I don't know how many more I will have to knit. I'm also not sure I'm a fan of the picot hem on the bottom so I might be looking for a neat crochet edging detail when I get there with the left over crochet cotton I have from my necklace. I've tried it on and I'm loving it so far. I can see myself wearing this skirt over and although I may dye it a different color after the wedding. <br />
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The only errata for Now Voyager is the gauge information wasn't provided. If you like her other patterns make sure you check for errata because although there are a lot of nice patterns to knit, there are lots of mistakes in her book and lots of knitters found her personal jargon confusing at times. <b>Anytime you start a new pattern you should be checking two things</b>: for any errata or designer notes not included in the pattern and Ravelry finished projects for that particular pattern -- especially for modifications you might like or notes others have voted helpful. It can save you a lot of time and heartache. Often I find there are some knitters who have done a better job at making their piece fit better than the official models.<br />
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Bottom line: I merged these patterns because I like the simplicity in stitch work; I can knit this skirt relatively quick with two kidlets under 2.5 years before the big day. Also, rather than emphasize stitch detail, I emphasized shaping. The ribbon corset on the back is the quick but more importantly, beautiful detail I was hoping for. Most lace skirt patterns I found were shapeless or too complicated. Since the bottom part of my shirt is lace, I didn't want to over do the lace and look like an over sized doily. I wanted to be consistent in the yarn I am using for both pieces and the patterns I chose allow that.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967736339504991878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5316357907998084720.post-1913676159468379162010-11-15T17:52:00.000-08:002011-07-09T15:01:20.333-07:00Projects on the GoI finally finished <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/laurazlsk/round-or-pinwheel-baby-blanket">Evan's Lucky Pinwheel Blanket</a>. It took a while but it was well worth it. It's nice and dense which is great for the season in a beautiful shade of green (see below).<br />
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Also in green, Verena Knitting on their site has a free pattern of the day. A couple days ago, there was a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/16-wrap-style-top">halter wrap top</a> that I absolutely fell in love wit h; started knitting it right after I pulled out some yarn for the project. I absolutely love the different textures in this wrap --- it's what made it so unique.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967736339504991878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5316357907998084720.post-72198968572748516992010-11-15T09:40:00.000-08:002011-07-09T11:16:31.269-07:00Gearing Up for the Holidays<b>Gift Ideas</b><br />
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<b>A Skein of Small Wonders</b>. Take a skein or two of yarn and wind into a single ball. As you wind add small things like a bell at the start, a row counter, Kitchener stitch key chain, stitch markers, packet of darning needles, fancy buttons, shawl pin, needle tip covers, etc... anything that can be hidden while you wind the skein(s) into a ball. With the card, include the yarn label and a pattern that can be used for the amount of yarn given. Add the required knitting needles/crochet hook(s) and a bow and voila! One of the coolest knitting packages I've ever heard of.<br />
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<b>Deluxe Beginners Kit</b>. Many beginners kits aren't as nice as they could be so why not make your own? Include a book that you wish you had or you used to learn how to knit. If your friend is tech savvy, include a list of the best youtube video tutorials she'll need and the link for Ravelry so she can keep track of her projects. Add a list of your favorite inspirational quotes and knitting tips. For the first project pick an easy scarf pattern, the needles for it, stitch markers, a gauge/needle sizer, darning needles and needle tip covers. You might even want to make coupons for free instructional time. Wrap everything in traveling tote or basket.<br />
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<b>Knit-a-holic help</b>. Have a friend whose stash keeps growing to epic proportions? Help her get organized with clear plastic tubs and baskets Make a homemade yarn index (a scrapbook with pages with spots for how many skeins left with their location, pictures of completed projects with specific yarn, notes about it, a gauge swatch etc). Make a knitting needle holder with matching darning needle holder. Get a fishing tackle box as a portable knitting organizer. Get a scale for weighing leftover yarn. Get a swift and/or ball winder.<br />
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<b>On the Go</b>. Fill a travel bag with knitting essentials. Include a couple of patterns that don't require much thought that can easily be done while at a game, knit-a-long, an appointment or on the bus/car/train. A interchangeable circular needle kit and/or double pointed needle case can help manage needles on the go (besides circular needles fit in smaller places than straights).<br />
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<b>Need More Time?</b> Create an I.O.U coupon card complete with pattern photos, measuring tape, swatch ideas and the promise to make the item for them by a certain date in the colors of their choosing. If you don't know their measurements, include a matching form they can fill out and return to you.<br />
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<b>Splurge on Quality Tools</b>. It can be a beautiful drop spindle, hand crafted needles/hooks, fancy glass shawl pin, decorated darning egg, sock blocker etc...<br />
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<b>Adopt a Sheep</b>. Adopt a rare breed in a loved one's name and they can receive it's wool for a year. There are lots of programs online available.<br />
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<b> Hat for a Friend and a Person in Need</b>. Knit a hat then put together a kit for making the same one for your friend's favorite charity. Provide the prepaid envelope to ship. You can also do the same for socks, scarves and mitts or anything else you see fit.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967736339504991878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5316357907998084720.post-71663556568542513052010-10-27T15:55:00.000-07:002011-07-09T11:20:30.597-07:00Where I've been...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>For the past month and a half I've pretty much been getting ready for the latest addition to our family, Evan and also getting settled into our new home. During that time I pretty much reduced my knitting time to a halt with the exception of the few hours I spent on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/laurazlsk/round-or-pinwheel-baby-blanket">Evan's pinwheel blanket</a> (still a wip but only the border and finishing left).<br />
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This week, I finished a couple <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/meathead-hat">meathead hats</a> I've been working on for a friend's twin boys due in December (shown on left and below); the baby shower is tomorrow. I'm also catching up on my swap squares for my Baker's Dozen group. I've been thinking about the projects I have going on and all that needs to be finished.<br />
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I've also just started new project to challenge myself, the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/laurazlsk/zodiac---sternzeichen">Zodiac Scarf</a> by <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/designers/tina13">Tina13</a> who designs some truly amazing free double knitting patterns from all different genres. Check her work out on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/designers/tina13">Ravelry</a>. You will not be disappointed. I love having a challenge on the go where I learn something new; it keeps things interesting and my skills growing. I've never done double knitting before. On youtube I found some videos to learn the technique and also discovered that two socks can be knitted at the same time in the round by double knitting. For now I'll stick with reversible scarves but I totally want to give that a try someday. <br />
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There were also a few sites I went to for written/photo directions. Learning how to double knit has been an adventure of sorts. There are many teachers and tutorials but I have yet to find a complete source with all the information in one place. I think I smell a project coming on. <br />
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Anyway, back to my boys and my knitting needles. Hope everyone had a nice Thanksgiving!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967736339504991878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5316357907998084720.post-45662666465057101412010-07-14T17:50:00.000-07:002011-07-09T11:20:30.597-07:00New on the NeedlesIt's been a while since I last posted. Lots going on. I've been reading and looking up more on techniques than designing lately. I've also gone queue crazy on Ravelry. Here's some of the highlights:<br />
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<b>Ebony Wrist Warmers: check!</b><br />
I just found out that my local book store carries Verena; a German based magazine that is printed in other languages. I picked up the Summer 2010 and just completed my first project from there, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/laurazlsk/20-wrist-warmers">Wrist Warmers</a> :) They turned out great and knit up relatively quick. The written directions were a little confusing but I figured it out. I will probably make another pair with a few mods. Longer and a but looser. I also hemmed the picot edging as I knitted.<br />
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<b>New treasure to replace the lost</b><br />
While I was browsing through my favorite thrift store for donated needles and yarns I came across two skeins of Lion Brand Chenille in forest green... the same yarn I used for my first completed knitted project, a scarf I had made a couple years before I met my hubby. I sent him to work with it (it was a cold night) and he accidentally lost it. It was was my favorite winter scarf and I thought I'd never be able to replace it... until now. I made my mother one in the wine colorway last November. It's just basic garter stitch but the texture looks so much more elegant with this yarn. I can't wait till it's done!<br />
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<b>Drop Spinning</b><br />
At the WWKIP Day event a few weeks ago I met a woman who was drop spinning. Since the initial investment is much cheaper and more portable than working with a wheel, I thought I'd give it a try. I picked up some prewashed, brushed and dyed fibers and gave it a go. I love it! I also found out there is a local guild here that teaches and rents out wheels and a reasonable rate so I might give that a try as well. I'm not entirely sure what I'm going to knit out of the yarn I spun but I'm excited! It's still a work in process and I'll have to get pictures up and find some good links.<br />
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<b>Lace</b><br />
Recently I've become very interested in lace patterns. With today's available yarns and innovations in knitting tools, designs and techniques the idea of old granny lace is gone. I am particularly attached to the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/haruni">Haruni shaw</a>l (meaning "grandmother" in Tolkein's elven language). I also found a book called "<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/a-gathering-of-lace">A Gathering of Lace</a>" that I have on hold at a local used book store. I noticed a lot of the directions and patters appear to be well written. I'm looking forward to working on some of the projects in that book.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967736339504991878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5316357907998084720.post-16167813431610861102010-06-13T09:16:00.000-07:002011-07-09T11:20:30.598-07:00Celebrating WWKIP Day in Kelowna, BCI had a blast yesterday celebrating <a href="http://www.wwkipday.com/">World Wide Knit in Public Day</a> with a couple local groups. I met new people, worked on a toy net I'm improvising for my son (I'm taking notes and will be posting the pattern in a week or so), and even tried hand spinning. It was cool seeing so many knitters/crocheters in spot and seeing what they're working on. <br />
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There was one woman who had a piece of ribbon with the exact measurements marked (kind of like a personal ruler) of the various parts of a sock to get the perfect fit. That's a very cool idea that I'll have to try as I work on the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/laurazlsk/girls-best-friend">"Girls Best Friend"</a> and <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/laurazlsk/movie-socks">"Movie Socks"</a> this month. <br />
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There was another who was knitting a bag out of plastic bags; I especially loved the purple she found from a local chocolate shop.<br />
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There were people working on sweaters, socks, scarves, and outfits for a baby. People from different generations and different locations with other artistic talents. More and more people trickled in early afternoon. For once the weather man was right; there was a nice breeze and the sun was hot high in the sky. My hubby affectionately refers to me as lobster cakes... a play on my nickname combined with the color my arms turned. I was glad I had picked something that doesn't require much thought because socializing in a knit together would have been hard if I had chosen something more complex. <br />
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WWKIP Day is celebrated globally from June 12th through the 20th. Find a local celebration in your country at: <a href="http://www.wwkipday.com/">http://www.wwkipday.com</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967736339504991878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5316357907998084720.post-29040176462476953182010-06-06T10:37:00.000-07:002011-07-09T11:20:30.599-07:00Active Works in Progress: A Sad UpdateUntil we had all of our things out of storage, I had been keeping my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/laurazlsk/girls-best-friend">"Girls Best Friend"</a> WIP in a white grocery bag tied up so my son couldn't get at it. We were cleaning up and my hubby must have accidentally thrown it out with another trash bag. Unfortunately there were a couple other skeins of mystery yarn I intended to make a bikini set out of from a favorite thrift store and two of my favorite reference books in it as well. The organizing and cleaning is still a huge task... especially with a super curious 13 month little boy around getting into things he sometimes shouldn't. I'm hoping he hid it somewhere but so far it doesn't look good. <br />
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I checked the LYS I got the yarn from originally and they still have that color in the same dye lot... phew. At $11 a skein, I'm glad I put the other two with my stash so I'll only need to replace one skein, the needle set and the 10 hours of work (and learning: my first pattern with short rows) already invested in it. Needless to say I was a little crushed but it could have been worse and there's still hope it might turn up somewhere. <br />
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Until I actually replace everything in the next few weeks, I found a skein of some nice crimson red sock yarn (Pattons Kroy) I was gifted after my son was born. I'll be working on the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/laurazlsk/movie-socks">"Movie Socks" by Kate Blackburn</a>. Both patterns are from one of my two favorite sock books, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/the-joy-of-sox">"The Joy of Sox."</a> The other is <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/sock-innovation">"Sock Innovation."</a><br />
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Anyway, so lesson learned... never leave projects in plastic bags unless they are clear or clearly marked.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967736339504991878noreply@blogger.com0Kelowna, BC, Canada49.880100000000013 -119.443649.753844500000014 -119.5784235 50.006355500000012 -119.30877650000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5316357907998084720.post-51329811934073723622010-06-03T11:16:00.000-07:002011-07-09T11:20:30.599-07:00On Needles and Hooks: Active Works in ProgressMy family and I recently brought all of our things out of storage and among the boxes I found my stash and the supplies I couldn't take with me. This past year has been all about crochet until I knitted a pair of yoga socks for my mother. Right now I have a few things on the go (all links below go to a Ravelry page):<br />
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<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/laurazlsk/girls-best-friend">"A Girl's Best Friend" by Star Athena</a><br />
While visiting my parents in the US, I picked up "The Joy of Sox" and instantly fell in love with this pattern. It wasn't until I got home that I purchased the necessary quantity of yarn to finish this project. I also had never had experience with short rows but a couple youtube videos later and it's coming along. I'm still on my first sock, working my way up the ankle but loving how handmade socks fit so perfectly! I have large feet so finding one in a store that looks good, fits just right and goes up so high is hard for me. <br />
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<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/laurazlsk/blissful">"Blissful" by Keridiane Chez</a><br />
Among the boxes I found one of my favorite books, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/stitch-n-bitch-crochet-the-happy-hooker">The Happy Hooker by Debbie Stoller</a>. I had bought some yarn in a beautiful Forrest green for a different project but when I started working on it, it felt wrong for the pattern. Then I found this one:) </div><div><br />
</div><div>I'm currently 6 months pregnant with my second child and it's summer... if you have ever been pregnant in the summer... you know how your body temperature goes through the roof! The the lace in the skirt of the shirt would allow me to keep cool at home and would allow my baby bump to grow. Then when the baby is out, I can lace up the back like <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/MariaTheresa/blissful">MariaTheresa's Blissful</a>. <br />
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I also found another edit that I like in <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/LittleO/blissful">LittleO's Purple Bliss</a>. She used the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/queen-of-hearts-and-wonder-woman-bikinis">Queen of Hearts</a> bikini top pattern from one of Debbie's other books, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/stitch-n-bitch-the-knitters-handbook">Stitch N' Bitch</a> for the bodice. It looks so much more elegant than the standard hdc rows the original pattern calls for.<br />
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<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/knit-a-square">Knit a Square</a><br />
Around the time that I found out about Ravelry, I found this charity group. Knit 8x8" squares to send to South Africa to be sewn into blankets to keep the 1.5 million plus orphaned children warm. They do accept other things but recently there has been a call for more squares because people have been sending in too many hats and sweaters that are size specific which greatly slows down the distribution process. Summer is also their cold season so the need is even greater. <br />
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Since I'm on the bus lots or in waiting rooms or places with time on my hands, this is my mobile project. Squares can be knit, crochet or felted from old sweaters. I've also used this to try new techniques. You can sew 4x4" swatches together or add borders to make it 8x8" if you like as well.<br />
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I also found in my projects on Ravelry that I have a lot of FOs without pictures so I'll need to update those in the next little while. I made a blanket for my friend's son months ago that has his name on it. I intended to design the letters for the rest of the alphabet and post them on here so that's another project I'll be working on this month. Anyway, I better get back to my needles, hooks and boxes. Still plenty of stitches to stitch and plenty of boxes to unpack. </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967736339504991878noreply@blogger.com0Kelowna, BC, Canada49.880100000000013 -119.443649.753844500000014 -119.5784235 50.006355500000012 -119.30877650000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5316357907998084720.post-23476723185331515032010-01-27T12:56:00.000-08:002011-07-09T11:20:24.006-07:00Sometimes the best information is free :)<div style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 5px;">Lately I've been going to the library lots and finding all sorts of books and magazine back issues I've missed great articles or patterns I love. I went on a MAJOR binge. I discovered some books I probably would have never bought but will most likely in the future and others I really wanted aren't as good as I thought. Either way, if there is a book you're dying to check out, you can make a request and most libraries will send it in from another location or order it. I've also learned a few helpful techniques that in the future I might make videos or tutorials of my own. The best part about this, is it's FREE! </div><div style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 5px;">Speaking of free, my branch apparently hosts free learn to knit classes where they even supply the project yarn and needles free of charge for a dishcloth and scarf. I went just to check it out, meet new people and ask questions. There is also a more advanced class for mittens and socks I intend to eventually take. There might be something similar in your area, you just have to look.</div><div style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 5px;">I'm constantly trying patterns with stitches or techniques that are new to me. Each new thing I try, builds my confidence in my abilities to make more advance pieces and provides inspiration to design my own patterns (hopefully more complex pieces in the near future). These days, great information is available if you look.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967736339504991878noreply@blogger.com0