Hey, Show Me Your Knits!

Cozy Basket Weave Scarf

2012-01-14T15:51:00.000-08:00

I knit this super soft scarf in the basket weave pattern for Luke's mother, Jane, for Christmas. I used size 7 needles and the pattern came out looking really delicate and smooth. I was very pleased! Jane loved it and it looks lovely on her.

WAHL Sweater

2012-01-07T18:17:00.000-08:00

2011 was a pretty slow year for knitting for me. I only completed 3 projects, I believe, but my life was full in many other areas. For Christmas, I knit Luke this sweater with his last name stitched across the chest. We heard about a similar sweater allegedly knit for Graham Nash back in the late 60s by then girlfriend Joni Mitchell that we were inspired by. Plus Luke likes his name on his clothing. So I knit it with a very rough pattern that I had to adjust and make guesses while he was out of town. It was tough! I didn't knit the letters instarsia style, because I didn't have a graph for it, so I knit up the sweater first and stitched the name on top with a different yarn. Took me a few tries, but I got it, and it fits! To more knitting in 2012!

Getting Inspired for FALL...

2011-09-16T19:46:00.000-07:00

Source: ravelry.com via Breanne on Pinterest

Happy 4th of July!

2011-07-04T15:31:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July! It's been a lovely relaxing, BBQing and drinking weekend here. I finally finished up this colorful blanket I knit for Luke! (I know, it's too hot, but he'll have it for winter)

I've been knitting pretty sporadically this year, but when I do, this is the only project I've had in the works. After realizing I have about 8 boxes FULL of yarn, I decided to only use yarn I already own when making most of my projects this year, as with this colorful blanket. No need to buy anything new yet. Luke calls it my "scrap blanket" with joking disdain. I think Omar will be stealing it very soon. He is a creature of comfort.

I used a combination of increases and decreases to create the chevron zig zag with garter stitch edges. It's basically the same pattern as the black and purple blanket I made a few years back, just with different stripe patterns.

Next project? I'm thinking of starting scarves and things for holiday gifts. Also, going to start knitting closing gifts for my clients!

Wool and the Gang

2011-01-06T18:32:00.000-08:00

Have you heard of this? Wool and the Gang. Overpriced, hipster knitting kits, complete with yarn, pattern, needles and finishing tools. I popped in a crafty store in my neighborhood today and saw a bag that looked like this:

It cost over $100 for a dang scarf, but hey. I was intrigued. I suppose it's pretty neat if you want to get into knitting and look cool and $ isn't an object. I guess I'm a grandma at heart when I gasp at the price, but I wouldn't mind digging into one of these!

Baby's First Christmas Dress!

2010-12-25T16:51:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas! Savannah is finally big enough to wear her dress I knit for her this year. And what perfect timing--Christmas day! It brings me so much joy to see her so happy and know how much her parents love her and are enjoying their time with her this Christmas. Merry Christmas everyone!

Because Owls are so Hot Right Now

2010-12-17T14:25:00.000-08:00

I made this latchhook rug and hung it on my wall. Yes I did.

Omar's Striped Sweater

2010-12-06T10:43:00.000-08:00

It's getting chilly in Los Angeles (down to 40 degrees some nights!), so I decided Omar needed a sweater. I've never knit a dog sweater before, and I must say I didn't enjoy it much. It's a bit of a pain with all the end weaving and sewing velcro onto the back, BUT I love it on him! He is just the sweetest dog ever and he's so cute in his little sweater. Glad I'm done, and onto new projects!

I don't want to pose in front of the tree.

I'd rather nap next to you.

What to knit next? I'm thinking another large blanket, or maybe some quick scarves and hats for Christmas gifts. So glad it's cool and the holidays are coming!

Mom's 10/10/10 Birthday Stole

2010-10-25T17:44:00.000-07:00

My mom's birthday was October 10th. She's been looking forward to 101010 for years now (we're number people), so I went to visit her on her special day. I brought this stole with me. We had so much fun! My mom is fantastic. I wish I had time to knit her cool stuff all the time. I try!

She looks pretty great!

Thanks to my dad for taking the pics!

It's the same pattern as the orangey one I made for myself a couple of months ago. I like it. She likes it. I'm thinking it'll be the last one I make of this pattern though. It's a little bulky. If I make more shawl type garments, I'll probably use a pattern with lace or something lighter.

The golf course behind her looks great too!

Vintage Winter Steeze

2010-09-24T18:00:00.000-07:00

Always the trailblazer of knitted Los Angeles fashion, here's a preview of my winter looks (because we don't have fall in SoCal). After I've completed the next 73 items on my list of projects-I-want-to-make-that-I-will-likely-never-make, I'm going to make these and wear them.

This is my favorite. You can't stop me.

This is darling as well. It's a maybe.

I'll never make this, but the sweater/hat
combo was so popular back in the day,
I thought it deserved a mention.

Luke will wear this.

I'm Ready to Match the Leaves

2010-09-07T16:42:00.000-07:00

The Lady Eleanor Entrelac Stole is complete. Photographed this Labour Day weekend, and I'm ready for fall! I have the stole to match the trees for my New York and Oregon October trips.

I've been finished with the knitting for quite some time, just haven't had the patience to knot, tie and trim the fringe. I love the knitting part, but as I've claimed before, I hate the finishing. I did find though, that trimming the large amount of fringe was made easier by using a large hardback book as an edge guide.

This was so fun to make and it's going to be great to wear. I think I might make a few more in different colors. Great to wrap around shoulders on a cool night, or to wear around your neck like a scarf.

Not sure what my next project will be, but I'm ready to start! Perhaps a little sweater for Omar...

My little love: Luke's dog Omar

New Rowan Magazine Out; I Must Make This

2010-08-17T16:40:00.000-07:00

The autumn/winter issue of Rowan hit the US shelves this week. It's fantastic and I am forever a fan of their yarn and designs. This cape design called, "Kelly," really grabbed me and I'm dying to make it! Going to New York in October with my love, and this will be perfect for our fall trip. If I can get working quickly, I can do this in time. It's so cute. The design is by Sarah Hatton, who also designed my Wallis (go figure, dolman sleeves) and, I think, a couple of other things I've made. I clearly like her style.

Finished knitting the Entrelac stole, and now for the finishing. Photographs of the FO will be posted soon!

Entrelac

2010-08-13T10:00:00.000-07:00

The blog Knitting Daily posted today about Entrelac, and I thought I'd share, in light of the stole I'm currently finishing. It's an interesting technique, and if you're a knitter, you might try it! (Not recommended for beginners, but everyone else)

About to finish the stole, then I'll post pics, already thinking 4 projects ahead. :)

Jackie Sweater

2010-08-11T15:04:00.000-07:00

Hi. I want to make this sweater. Saw Laurie Metcalf rocking it on Roseanne and I'm dying for it. I'll probably make it in green. Doesn't have to be exactly like this one, but I definitely want the crossover shawl collar and the cabled eyelet front. I can make it up, but it'll take some work. Does anyone have a pattern for something similar to this? Please direct me if you do, thanks!

Jackie's pissed at Booker.

My Lady Eleanor Entrelac Stole

2010-07-21T19:57:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, I decided I wanted to start a new project for fall. I realize I have a long SoCal Indian summer ahead of me, yet. I dream of a Northwest fall. I mostly love the colors of maple trees and want to wear similar hues. I was thinking of a wrap or shawl, and though I never wear them, I could start. Or gift. I pulled out all the colors in my stash that live in the pallete of which I was dreaming, and started planning how I could stripe them, pattern them, somehow make them look like they all blended together. I wasn't sure how to do it. Then I remembered this variegated yarn I bought years ago, started a sweater on the fly, and then shelved, never to revisit. I pulled out the yarn, along with the sweater, and thought about it. After reviewing, I kind of like the sweater, and am hesitant to frog it. Though I don't know where I kept my notes. I have no clue what size needles were used, how many stitches were cast on, etc. I could figure it out, but seems like a pain.

I think I stopped knitting this because I didn't like the striped look. Can't remember exactly. Oddly, the main attraction for me to keep it and finish is the cluster of green towards the end of the one sleeve. That's it. The big payoff. A green patch.

Whether I will finish the sweater is still undetermined. If I do, I will need to buy more yarn, if I can find it. It obviously won't be of the same dye lot but that doesn't often matter with these acrylic (GASP! Gimme a break, it's all I could afford to buy so much of then. And now, frankly.) yarns produced for the masses. TBD. For now, I have about 4 skeins and have decided to make the Lady Eleanor Entrelac Stole from the Scarf Style book by Pam Allen. When finished, it looks like this.

I'd never tried Entrelac before. I was kind of apprehensive, but like most patterns, just takes a little getting used to. I'm into it. The pattern calls for size US 10 1/2s and I originally used 10s, knit about a foot, then decided I didn't like the drape. Too tight, resulting in a bumpier, harsher looking garment. I switched to 13s and I'm digging it. About 2 feet in, I stopped for a week or so due to heat and general busyness. Think I'll pick up again tonight. It's looking something like this.

Friends in Knits

2010-07-20T10:50:00.000-07:00

Jessica looking cute and bundled up at Sundance (many months ago) in a red chunky hat I knit.

Echo Park Share Fair

2010-07-09T17:16:00.000-07:00

Hi! I'll be teaching knitting tomorrow, Saturday, at the Echo Park Share Fair, from 1:30-4:00pm. Come out and visit me! If you'd like to learn the basics, bring some yarn and needles. (I'll have some there, but you won't be able to take them home.) If you have a project or pattern you need some help with, I will be doing that as well. I'm really looking forward to this great community event!

Holy Cowl!

2010-07-05T16:06:00.000-07:00

I knit this royal blue cowl as a gift last month, and since knit 3 more, in different colors. One is a gift, the other two, I may keep for myself. They're great easy projects to work on and not have to think. Very simple and quick. Great for use of scrap yarn as well, because they only use about one skein. Hasn't been hot here yet, so I can still hold yarn in my lap. Probably not for long!

Holy cow! The moose is done!

2010-04-21T03:34:00.001-07:00

It's done! I finished it. Finally. It was October 2008, I first saw this sweater and thought about ordering the Rebecca update in which it was published. 5 or 6 shipments of a pattern, yarn and needles later, and painful seaming (it's always painful for me, I'll put finishing off for months), I have my finished sweater! It fits well, and I love it. I want to be in a cabin in the snow, cuddled up by the fireplace. :)

What's the plural of moose?

2010-03-31T22:34:00.000-07:00

It's almost done. I finished embroidering the moose on the front and then ran out of black yarn. So yet again, I had to order more yarn. 4th shipment now. 5, counting the needles. I'm so excited to be almost done! Finally. It's so cute, I love it. While I wait for the yarn to finish the back, I'll weave in ends and seam the sides and sleeves. That's my least favorite part, so I could put it off for a while, but hopefully not. Next post will be pics of me wearing the finished sweater!

Baby Dress

2010-03-29T16:51:00.001-07:00

This was one of the most fun things I've ever knit. The yarn was a dream to work with, and it just flew by. The pattern came from a Vogue Knitting mag and it was just really easy. I had no problems, and was done in a week. I've been waiting to post it until Tiffanie received it, and I know she's picking it up at her post office today (tomorrow), so I couldn't wait any longer! I can't wait to see Savannah in it. I made the 1 year size, but my knitting is sometimes tight and runs small, plus babies grow at such different rates, I have no clue when it'll fit her. When it does, though, I will get a pic of her wearing it up here!

Savannah's Outfit

2010-03-27T10:15:00.000-07:00

I'm dying of suspense, waiting for this gift to show up in London. I really want to post a pic, but want Tiff to see it before I do. I can't wait for it to fit the little munchkin, and see her wearing it! She's soooooooooo cute.

Knitting with Friends

2010-03-25T17:10:00.000-07:00

Up until recently, I've been mostly a solo knitter. I really enjoying time alone and just zoning out and letting the needles fly. Except for a short-lived stint in a knitting circle I organized with coworkers/friends in 2004-ish, I've really never knit with anyone else. I even taught myself, alone, with a book. This year though, has been pleasantly different! I've gotten so much pleasure in the few nights I've spent knitting with girlfriends. 2 of the 3 friends had never knit a stitch before, and I really enjoy seeing someone go from slightly frustrated or confused, to satisfied and excited by their newfound hobby. I enjoy the tradition of knitting circles and am aiming to cultivate a little knitting camaraderie this year. Of course, I still enjoy knitting alone, but doing it with friends is proving to be more fun than I ever imagined. :)

Update on the Moose

2010-03-24T22:42:00.000-07:00

I finished making up the sleeves, front, and back of the moose sweater. The top is to be finished with circular needles and raglan shaping. I ordered the circulars and they finally arrived yesterday! I went ahead and got the Options Interchangables, off the Knit Picks website, because I know I will use them all. I ordered additional cables in 40" too, as they're the longest they make and I need them. So they've arrived, and I can continue with the sweater. I've never knit a raglan yoke and finished in one piece, so this will be a little challenge for me, especially when the jacquard pattern returns towards the neck. Here I go...

My Red Fair Isle Baby

2010-03-23T17:10:00.000-07:00

I started this sweater 4 years ago. The color is a dream to work with for me. I designed the fair isle pattern and painstakingly graphed it out on my computer then printed. I sketched an idea for the shape of the body, which is designed to be form fitting up to the bust and the upper arms, then balloon out a little bit. I stopped knitting after I finished the front and back and grafted the shoulder seams together. I let it sit in my closet this entire time. I've decided to pick it back up and finish the damn thing. I think I was just stumped as to what to do for the sleeves. I’m still not quite sure how to get a poof like I wanted, or if I really even want that shape anymore. I’ve never done short rows, and though I’m sure I could, I’m not sure my first time should be on my own design. Maybe. Here is my sketch of the body. This is why I didn't go to Parsons or FIDM. Now you know. Shhh.

Death of the Local Yarn Store

2010-03-22T16:52:00.000-07:00

Recently, I've taken on a few new knitting projects. While my yarn and needle stash is expansive, last week I found myself lacking specific circulars that I wanted immediately. I knew JoAnn's or Michael's would not carry the 40" 10 1/2s I needed, as they never carry any longer than 32", and even those are few and far between. So, I decided to hunt for a Los Angeles LYS.

I used to have my go to places like Black Sheep Knittery, That Yarn Store, the Yarn Garden, and Knit Cafe, whose owner, Suzan, was always so cool and helpful. Unfortunately, all these places are now CLOSED, except the Yarn Garden, which is now under another name by the same owner and sells handmade goods, not yarn.

I know there are a few other local yarn stores that I could try, but I am not keen on driving 45 min to West L.A. or getting on the freeway and going to the Valley or Pasadena. I also needed the needles on a Monday, and most yarn stores are closed on Monday, plus, there is no guarantee they will have what I need. So I resigned myself to ordering the needles online. I hate not supporting an LYS if I can, but it has become so difficult these past few years.

I know this city is not alone in the loss of these gems. I've read articles in my magazines and rants on blogs, encouraging knitters and crocheters to get out there and spend at least a portion of their budgets in a LYS. I want to do this, but it's hard when the internet is right in front of me, and the yarn store is so far away.

German Moosey Sweater

2010-03-15T20:13:00.000-07:00

I ordered this Rebecca update from Deutschland during the summer of 2009. I found the ggh Aspen yarn on Jimmy Beans in Sept, and ordered it then. It was delivered, then stolen off my porch while I was away for a couple of days. I understandably, couldn't get a refund. But I was determined to make the sweater! So I ordered it again, about a month ago. The price was about 40% higher this time around, but I finally started making it. Come to find out, the pattern does not call for enough of the orange/rust color. It calls for 4 skeins and even though I made the smallest size, with the smallest needle choice, I think it needs 6 skeins. So I ordered more. I’ve finished the back and am up to the jacquard pattern on the front when I realized that I used the larger size needle for the ribbing on the front. They’re only 1/2 size difference, and it’s not really noticable, but I’m tempted to frog it because I’m a perfectionist. Also tempted to frog half of the back, because I feel I could’ve used better tension on the fair isle pattern. I went LYS hopping today, in search of the rest of the 4 pairs of circulars the pattern calls for (which are so expensive!), but silly me forgot that almost every LYS is closed on Monday. This is quite the project. I’m getting a lot of satisfaction out of it though!

I found this rad Barbie latch hook I made several years back. I'm kind of in love with these silly things again, and might have to pick up a new one soon!

Socks a waste of time?

2010-03-14T17:47:00.001-07:00

I ordered this book and a ton of sock yarn ages ago, and it's been sitting in my closet ever since. I used to be interested in knitting socks, but now I just feel like I'd rather make beautiful things to wear above my waist. I don't know. I'm thinking about picking it up soon.

I finished Savannah's baby outfit and I'm dying to blog it, but I want it to be a total surprise for Tiffanie. I'll ship it to London tomorrow, and when she receives it, it'll be up.

Meanwhile, I'm about 35% finished with the German moosey sweater and it's going to be rad.

Purple Pain

2010-02-23T17:30:00.000-08:00

Here's the finished Rowan sweater. I actually completed knitting the body last fall, but just really didn't want to dive into finishing it. The Berocco yarn is great, but in hindsight, I should've chosen a less bulky yarn. Back stitch on the seams would have made it even bulkier, so I used mattress, but finding consistency with mattress was tough because of all the increases and decreases. Like the argyle cape, I will likely never wear this sweater. Oh- it's also very short. I should've guessed, since the model in the magazine was sitting down and you couldn't see the length. It's too short for my taste, but maybe one of my friends will want it!

We're back on

2010-02-22T13:35:00.000-08:00

Two packages arrived for me today. The first, from my dear friend, Tiffanie, contains 5 skeins of Sublime baby cotton kapok dk, in soft pink. Tiff just had a baby girl, Savannah, and I'll use this yarn to knit her up something really sweet. I have a few ideas of what I'm going to make, but I'm keeping it a surprise. Thanks Tiffanie!

The second package contained the yarn for the sweater I've been wanting to make for a while now. It's the second time I've ordered the yarn, but I actually have it now and I'm not letting it go! I'll make this after the baby project. It's ggh Aspen yarn, which I found really difficult to get my hands on this time around.

The sweater is from a Rebecca update from a while back, and looks something like this.

As for the Rowan creeper sweater I started back in Sept., I've finished making it up, I just have to weave in the ends and get a photograph of me wearing it. I'm not thrilled with the result, but I'm glad I'm done, and I can move on. Happy knitting!

Creeper

2009-09-08T15:35:00.001-07:00

Last night I grabbed some Berrocco Peruvia Quick and decided to knit up the Creeper from Rowan 38. Seriously one of the best Rowans I've ever purchased. I've knit several designs from it in the past few years and continue to go back to it. I should be working on other things, but I haven't knit in ages, so I'm giving myself this project.

Creeper is the sweater on the right.

Zig Zag Top

2009-09-07T15:50:00.000-07:00

I designed this top and knitted it up over a year ago. I'm finally posting it. It doesn't fit me very well, but I started making a new one with a different color pattern and may finish it someday. :) I'm ready for the fall; hopefully we'll get one in Los Angeles this year. The weather cools off and the needles come out!

Twinkle Sews

2009-03-14T16:54:00.001-07:00

Um... really? I have to wait til September for this? Ahhh!!! Looks good, I can't wait to check out this book from Wenlan Chia; I am, obviously, a fan. I guess it'll give me some time to actually figure out what I'm' doing with my sewing machine. Ha. So, I haven't been knitting much lately. This is an interesting time for me, but I promise, I will resume and start posting more projects soon. I have a completed design from last year and just have to photograph it and will get that up soon.

Sculptural Knitting

2009-01-29T17:39:00.000-08:00

My new issue of Vogue Knitting came in the mail today, and there's a feature on a designer called Sandra Backlund. Her creations are awesomely unique. I want to make them all! I must be living in a bubble to have never heard of her before, but I had to share some of my favorites.

Patchwork Rug

2009-01-21T14:22:00.001-08:00

I made these square patches a few years ago, just to keep me busy and they've been shelved for quite a while now. I've decided to make a rug out of them. They're pretty thick (three strands of worsted or chunkier held together) and I think it'd be cute on my hardwood floor, so I'm gonna do it. I have to decide how I want to stitch them together and then I'm off! Here are some pictures of how I might arrange them and some of the colors up close. I didn't use the same three strands of yarn on any two patches, so they're all totally unique.

I know I've been gone for a while, but I appreciate your continued support and comments! Happy new year and new president!

Warm Legs, Cold Feet

2008-12-22T09:31:00.000-08:00

I knit these chunky legwarmers for my friend Tammy's birthday. She loves to wear legwarmers around the house, so it was an easy gift to make, and fun! My computer still won't upload photos to the internet, so I put these on my external hard drive and brought it to another computer. All that work for a not-so-great photo, but oh well. I'll post pics of Tammy wearing them soon.

I'm snowed in at my parents' house, so maybe I'll make some fun new things! Happy Holidays!

What the Heck?

2008-12-18T23:56:00.001-08:00

I've been trying to upload a picture of these leg warmers I made and it just won't work. I don't know what the deal is with my computer. I can't e-mail picture or put them up online. This is a problem I don't know how to fix. Bummer. Hopefully soon I'll figure out what's going on here! Small problems, in the grand scheme. Happy happy holidays!

Ah, Colbert, I wish I knew how to quit you...

2008-12-08T19:34:00.000-08:00

You may have already seen this. I've already e-mailed it to about everyone I know, but just in case you haven't... it's hilarious. I HAVE been knitting, just not very much! I have much blogging to do. Will start taking pictures and start updating on my progress. Happy Holiday season to everyone!

The Colbert ReportMon - Thurs 11:30pm / 10:30c

Nailed 'Em - Radical Knitting

Colbert at Christmas
Colbert Christmas DVD

Green Screen
Bill O'Reilly Interview

Update, not a lot of knitting...

2008-10-23T19:36:00.000-07:00

My band is on a deadline. I haven't been knitting very much, but for a good reason! Open Hand is finishing our album "Honey," due out in March. Hope to have it completed soon!

I've been...

2008-10-17T11:55:00.000-07:00

working this week on a top of my own design. It's a simple design, but sizing is trickier than I thought. I knit up the first pass at it (sized for me), and it's a little bigger than I'd intended. The yarn looks great and I love the way it looks, it's just a little big. So I'm going again with different colors (for a change) and a smaller gauge. I've never really written out a pattern before, other than little scribbles on post-its, so I'm challenging myself. I'm referencing the Craft Yarn Council's (CYC) sizing standards to try and make sure I'm doing it right. As for the first attempt at knitting the design... I know I say this every time something doesn't fit me, but maybe it'll be a gift.

Rowan 44

2008-10-14T09:31:00.001-07:00

I got the new Rowan magazine, number 44, last week. This is the 30th anniversary edition. It has some gorgeous clothes in it, though I haven't picked any to knit up yet. I've been working on some projects that I'm not posting for a while, but I will get new pics up soon.

Finished Vest

2008-10-09T20:24:00.001-07:00

Okay, here's what the vest looks like on. It's a little wide I think, but this is a much better representation of the color. Who knows if I'll wear it, but it was fun to make something so quickly!

Balthazar Vest, Continued...

2008-10-09T16:15:00.000-07:00

I finished knitting up the vest and here's a photo. I'm not sure I like it. Tried it on and it's bulky to the point of being unattractive. I'll post pics of me wearing it later, when I have someone to take the photos. My photography is not great, the color is actually quite different than what I'm seeing on the screen. More soon!

Twinkle's Balthazar Vest

2008-10-07T18:24:00.000-07:00

I think my next project is this vest, designed by Wenlan Chia, from her book, Twinkle's Big City Knits. I think this entire outfit is just darling, and I want it. I've checked out the completed vests on Ravelry, and see that quite a few people have had problems with the pattern, or are unhappy with the fit, so I'm proceeding with caution. I don't have the size 19 circulars, but I've ordered them. I'm going to give it a shot with 17s for now, because I don't want to wait. For more about Twinkle, click here.

Aspen Neck Cowl

2008-10-06T15:43:00.000-07:00

I'm back in Los Angeles. It was hard to leave Oregon, but I'll be back for the holidays. While I was there I needed a simple project to keep my hands busy, so I knit up this Aspen Neck Cowl, designed by Andrea Tung. This was painfully boring to knit.
I used Cascade Yarns in 100% wool, so the cowl will definitely keep me warm during the harsh L.A. winters. Though I don't think I'll keep it. I'll probably give it as a gift. You can also pull it up over your head for a hood! Or wear it as a skirt or tube top, if you're really wild.

Knit Knit, the book

2008-10-03T17:58:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh, yes! I finally got Knit Knit, the book. I've been wanting this for a while now. It's a fantastic book full of profiles of a wide variety of fiber artists. The photography is great and the projects range from political to philanthropic to microscopic to extremely large-scale. It showcases artists with their own unique approach to knitting. I'm so excited to get into this. For more photography and profiles of the artists, you can check out http://www.knitknit.net/book/.

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Fall!

2008-09-30T21:18:00.000-07:00

I'm up in Oregon at my parents' house for a couple of weeks, and though it's been warm, fall is definitely coming. The trees are changing color, and this beauitful place is looking even more wonderful every day. Hopefully I'll get some cooler weather this week before I head back, so I can wear my newly finished project! I'm so happy with this sweater! I've finally created something for myself that I feel is fun, fashionable and flattering. Here are some different views of the sweater.
I made a few mistakes while knitting this. I had quite a difference between the tension of the front and back. I don't know why or how I did this, but I think I fixed most of it by blocking before I seamed. Other than that, there wasn't anything majorly wrong.
Here's a back view with my mom's finger in the corner. I really like this blue! After 6 years of knitting, I'm still learning with each project, and I really enjoyed this one!

Finished Cape

2008-09-15T19:21:00.000-07:00

It's done! I'm so glad. I really do like the argyle pattern in this cape, but the overall design was not my favorite. If I were to knit it again (and I won't) I would change a few things.

I would use a different yarn. The Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick N' Quick recommended for this project sheds so badly it gets all over my clothes. So unless I bring a lint roller out with me, it's not entirely practical.I would also write this pattern with different size options. It's only given in one size, and even though I got the gauge before I started, it's way too big for me! Had I realized this, I could've adjusted the pattern, but I didn't. I may give it to someone who'll wear it better, I'm not sure.

I would also add a garter or seed stitch edging on the cape, as well as in the armholes. The stockinette stitch rolls in, even after blocking. I would use a few more buttons, to keep the garment together. This was a fun project, and hopefully it'll get some use!

Wallis

2008-09-13T14:34:00.000-07:00

I've begun knitting this pattern from the Rowan 38 magazine, called Wallis, by Sarah Hatton. I love it so far, and think I finally may create something that I'll actually wear. The blue is actually a little darker than it appears in the picture. I'm not the best photographer, but I try. I'll post more as it progresses. Hope to have it done in a couple of weeks!

Argyle Cape

2008-09-06T14:06:00.000-07:00

This Argyle Cape is from the Fall/Winter 2005 issue of Knit.1 Magazine. I loved it when this issue came out, and started knitting it in 2006.

The cape starts knitting at the top, then works down through the armholes and the colorwork. I was about half way through the argyle pattern, when I put it in my closet, unfinished.

After a few years in my closet, I've pulled it out and revisited it today. It's kind of sloppy work and I'm not really sure if I'd ever even wear it now, but I bought the yarn and I want to finish it.

Justin took a pict of me working on it today, yarn everywhere. Intarsia is not my specialty, and I have kind of a mess of yarn on the bed.

I'm interested to see what the end result will be like.

Here's a close-up of my work.

My Mom is a Winner!

2008-09-05T19:24:00.000-07:00

Okay, this is unrelated to my knitting, but I just had to share, since my mom doesn't have a blog of her own. My mom is a very talented scrapbooker/card-maker, and she recently entered a card-making contest at the Oregon State Fair. She won second place!!! She's so great, and my dad and I are proud. He made her this special frame of her accomplishment. How sweet! I guess crafting runs in the family.

The Blanket is Finished!

2008-09-05T16:25:00.000-07:00

Ahhhhh... it's done! I realized during the creation of this afghan, that I love to start knitting them, but it's very hard to finish. Especially considering how ambitious I can get with the size. I put the finished blanket on my queen-sized bed to give an idea of just how enormous it is.

Now, I really want to make something wearable for myself. I'm thinking a sweater, wrap, hoodie, I'm not sure just yet. I have several fun things queued on my Ravelry page. I also have this argyle cape from a pattern I found in Knit.1 magazine that I started a couple of years ago and has been sitting in my closet since then. I might revisit that, just to see where I am, and if I even like it anymore.

Politics and Ravelry

2008-09-02T21:50:00.000-07:00

I'm still knitting away at my rippled afghan. I have 2 1/2 thick stripes left to knit and then just a lot of finishing. I've been watching the coverage of the RNC, which is confirming to me more and more why I'm proud to be supporting Obama. I'm ready to get started knitting something for me to wear. I realize how long it's been since I've made something for myself that wasn't a scarf, hat, pillow or blanket. Hopefully pics of the completed blanket will be up soon and I'll get started on something fun to wear soon!

I just discovered the Ravelry site, which seems to be already pretty popular, and so fun! I just love the idea of a social networking site that is geared toward knitters and crocheters! You can do just about anything on it: keep inventory of yarn, needles and hooks, updates on projects, friends, patterns, books, groups, it's endless. I'm really excited to keep exploring it.

Hot Summer!

2008-08-05T20:56:00.000-07:00

I'm still working on the afghan and other projects, but I have to admit, not as much as I'd like. It's hot! Will post pics when I've finished something new. Thanks for checking out my blog!

New Afghan Project

2008-06-05T13:39:00.000-07:00

I'm excited about this new afghan I started knitting. Purple and black! Just wanted to put a little update picture up. I will post pics when it's finished.

Baby Blanket

2008-06-05T13:37:00.001-07:00

I knit this for my cousin's baby, Preston. I love the ripples, and the color of green.

Yoga Mat Bag

2008-06-05T13:13:00.000-07:00

I am so proud of this bag! I just love it. It's durable and really cute (I think). I love to practice yoga, and this bag makes me even more excited to go.

More Winter Scarves

2008-06-05T12:58:00.000-07:00

I haven't blogged in a while, I'm bad at taking pictures. I made these scarves last winter for our trip to Illinois in the snow. I love them, they're all very warm and chunky.

Phone and I-Pod Cozies

2008-02-17T21:51:00.000-08:00

I've been knitting these phone/i-pod/camera/blackberry/whatever-the-heck-you-want-to-put-in-them cozies for about as long as I've been knitting, (Before we saw them in stores, I've gotta say) and I've never posted any pictures of them. Here are what a couple of them look like. Unfortunately, I lost my red and black cozy for MY phone. Bummer. Been too lazy to knit a new one.

New Favorite Hats

2008-02-17T21:07:00.000-08:00

I'm a fan of these hats this winter. I especially love the red one I knit. Wish I had more of that yarn to make a matching scarf! These are pics taken at my parents' house during the holidays. It's snowing in the background! xoxo

Christmas Pillows

2008-01-03T21:12:00.000-08:00

I knit two cream colored pillows for my parents for Christmas. They're soft and really fluffy and nice. They love them. Here are pictures of the pillows. Happy Anniversary to my parents today!

Colorful Winter Afghan

2007-10-20T13:22:00.000-07:00

I've finished this CROCHETED afghan I started several months ago. I worked on it sporadically, but recently put more time into it and I actually finished last night. Normally, I'm not very adventurous with color, but this afghan changes color every row, and I used a total of 18 different colors! I love it! It's also big enough for two people to snuggle under comfortably.

Funky Green Pillow

2007-07-24T22:11:00.000-07:00

Last week I finished this fun green pillow. I just bought a really inexpensive basic pillow from I-Kea and knit this cover for it. It looks cool on my white bed and I think I'll knit some more later. They would make great gifts, and I can make any pattern or color scheme I want.

Winter Scarves

2007-07-24T21:14:00.000-07:00

I haven't blogged in quite a while... but I've still been knitting! I'm not great at photographing my work, but here are some pics of some scarves I knitted and crocheted. I wanted to share them. I love this mossy green scarf below. It's very thick and warm.

Little Beanies

2007-01-01T16:14:00.000-08:00

I haven't blogged in several weeks, but it doesn't mean I haven't been knitting. I've been making these little beanies for fun and have actually sold some to friends for Christmas presents and such. They're quick and easy to make and it's been a fun project. I like experimenting with different color schemes. Here are some that I've made so far.

Red/Black Mixed Greens Mixed Blues

Mixed Purples Cream/White

Yummy Red Yarn

2006-10-15T13:21:00.000-07:00

Whenever I come back to Salem to visit my parents, I pop into the local yarn store, Have You Any Wool, and I bought this yummy Burly Spun yarn in Ruby Red. I haven't worked much with yarn this bulky, and I'm not sure what I'm going to knit. I think maybe a drop stitch scarf. I love the color.

My Fair Isle Design

2006-10-14T14:26:00.000-07:00

I'm designing a sweater for myself, which I've never done before. I've finished the front and back and grafted the shoulder seams. I have a vision of what it's going to look like in my head and if I don't get it the first time around, I'll make some changes and try again! I love the fair isle pattern. It's actually my first time working with fair isle and I spent several hours on an Excel spreadsheet perfecting my idea. I love it! Wish me luck on the sleeves. I want to try some short-row shaping to create a puffed sleeve. I've never done it before, but love trying new things!

The Results

2006-10-11T19:00:00.000-07:00

Here she is! Happy 50th birthday mom! (yesterday) She couldn't be any cuter. I think the sweater looks pretty good. Very oversized, but I was ready for that to be the case. It's ok, she loves it and it's going to be her lounging around/going to a movie sweater. It's soft and roomy. The pic above is of her and my dad, together 34 years.

Mom's Sweater

2006-10-09T18:55:00.000-07:00

I just finished a sweater for my mom for her 50th birthday, which is tomorrow. I'm flying up to Oregon in the morning and I'm going to give it to her. I'm so excited! It's the second sweater I've knit. The first and this were both crewneck pullovers and both were designed without a pattern. I'm pretty proud of myself! I'm getting better, that's for sure. Here's a picture of my mom's sweater.

My only worry is that it's going to be huge on her. I purposely made it large so it would be comfy and long so she'd feel covered up. But I'm slightly worried it's going to be too big. I tried it on myself and it came down almost to my knees! haha. I can shorten it if it's too long. We'll see tomorrow when I give it to her! I'm sure she'll love it.

My first sweater ever. Not bad!

My New Yarn Cubby!

2006-10-09T18:34:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my blog! After four years of loving knitting, I am finally joining the world of knitting blogs. I've read many of your blogs and now I'm posting my own! Here is a picture of my new knitting cabinet. I like to call it a "cubby." My yarn was all over my apartment, in the closet cabinets, in baskets, everywhere. Now it's all in one place. I love it!