Little Lamby Knits

Endless knitting & family photos :)

2012-01-31T18:29:00.000-05:00

I feel like I am endlessly knitting. I am working on Union Suit for Levi and then one for my dad. YES, huge amounts of endless stockinette! At least it isn't boring and I can watch a movie while knitting.

Here are some photos of the kiddos that I found and love :)

The whole fam damily (well, almost!) Who is missing?

My dad in his remodeled 39 Dodge. Pretty pleased, I'd say!

Will & Scar <3

Mady & my favoritest niece ever!

Levi; A union suit will suit him, yes?

Dee :)

Indy; a prolific knitter like her mama :)

Not any photos of Lox. You all see him all the time as I use him as my model!

Leanne Mittens for ME!

2012-01-24T16:44:00.000-05:00

My sweet, India, knit me some mittens :) In one of my favorite colors; purple! It is the "Leanne Mittens" By Trisha Paetsch (I hoped I spelled that right!). They are a free pattern that comes with her e-book; "Grand Prairie Hats"

India used Elann's Peruvian Highland Wool Chunky in Grape heather and Noro Silk Garden Chunky. Very comfy mitts! I love them :)

For my sweet girl, who is always knitting something for someone, I knit her a Mister or Missus Toque in Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Tweed, colour "Dill Heather".

Of course, I will knit matching mitts for her :) We just knit back and forth for each other :D

I am working on a Tree Fort Jacket right now for a sweet friends and can't wait to share those photos!

Happy Knitting!

Pattern Release: Mister or Missus Toque

2012-01-23T17:39:00.000-05:00

Looking for an adventure? Tired of knitting the same old top down toque? If you are looking for some new techniques, stitches that POP! and something addictive, then this is the hat for you! (Seriously, I have knit 6 and am not bored yet!)

It looks good on a man :)

It looks good on a toddler!

Comes in 6 sizes: baby[toddler, child, teen, women's, men's]

I bet you are wondering how those cables wrap over the top, right?

Baby size for a dear friends new grandson with Inspired Bootees :)

I present thee with the Mister or Missus Toque!

(matching mittens are coming soon!)

$2.99

Remember this cute little Twiga?

2012-01-05T15:26:00.000-05:00

I have had this pattern back for a while, but haven't had time to re-release it.

This jacket is knit with South West Trading Company's "Saphira"; a supersoft superwash 100% merino wool. Delicious to knit with!

"Twiga Hoodie" features an asymmetrical front opening, spots are worked in intarsia, seamless, bottom-up construction. Only a few stitches to graft together under the arms!

Mittens are knit separately, then one edge is sewn to the sleeve. They flip up and can be buttoned to the sleeve to be out of the way.

"Twiga Hoodie" can now be purchased through Ravelry or here on the blog.

$6.00

Knitting For a Friend & New Pattern Preview

2011-11-21T10:18:00.000-05:00

I have been working on several projects lately. I am so happy to have all these Union Suits finished for my friend, Tara! It took me longer than expected but they are done :)

Elanns Bamboo classic was used for the blue and purple Union Suits. It was extremely spilty, but super soft. It should be comfortable for a baby :) This blue suit is size 3 months.

Elanns newer Sonata Soft in brown was used for this size 3 months suit. It is not as soft as the bamboo, but did soften up some once washed.

Periwinkle union suit in size 2 years for Liv :)

I also knit a hat for her, like the ones I made a few years ago. "Thorpe" is by Kristen Kapur and is easy and quick to knit. It is also a free pattern! I used Knit Picks Swish in Serrano and Dusk. I held the strands doubled to achieve the correct gauge.

Life has been busy lately. My mum has been in the hospital for 3 weeks, home for a few days and is back in again. I have tried to go down there every week for a few days and help out. Hopefully things will return to "normal" soon for them :)

I have a few new patterns coming out, one of which is a unique hat pattern: "Mister or Missus" Toque. It comes in 5 sizes: baby, toddler, child, women's and men. It features seamless twisted stitch cables that run from front to back and a section on each side. It is an advanced beginner to intermediate pattern, but isn't too hard once you get going :)

Above is the womens and toddler sizes using Cascade 220 wool. I knit these last year but haven't done anything with them since then!

The hat is started at the top.

Notice Loxley's scarf? India knit this little beauty :) Maybe I can convince her to write out the pattern?

More cuteness :)

The Man's hat was knit with Madelinetosh Vintage, if I remember correctly.

This pattern will be knit up with Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Tweed soon! Come back for a free pattern giveaway :)

Happy knitting!

Organic Seasons Blanket & Jacket Pattern Release!

2011-10-31T00:21:00.000-04:00

This is happening a little earlier than expected, due to family events. Testing went swimmingly and I met some very wonderful people through the process. Thank you, dear testers; I could not make this possible without YOU!

I present The Organic Seasons Blanket & Jacket Patterns.

The Jacket is knit seamlessly & flat from the bottom up. The borders can be worked in duplicate stitching or intarsia. There is a border motif option for each season.

The body, sleeves & hood are worked in a soft wave pattern that is representative of years, the ocean, the wind. Similar to the rungs on a tree.

The front has a asymmetrical opening and the buttons bands are worked by picking up stitches. Buttons or toggles will work beautifully.

The Jacket features a generous fit to be worn over clothing and to last more than one season.

Sizes available are 3 months to 10 years.

Knit Picks Swish Tonal Worsted was used for both the Jacket & the Blanket. It is a superwash wool that is soft and luxurious.

The Blanket is worked seamlessly, from the center out, in the wave pattern. You have a choice of seasonal border motifs, which match the jacket. Sizes are Lovie (23" x 23"), Stroller (34" x 34") & Crib (45" x 45").

One season can be worked across all four sides or a season per side. The choice is yours. The Blanket pattern features charts as well as written directions for the wave pattern.

Both patterns will be available through Knit Picks within the next few weeks, or you can purchase them now through the blog or Ravelry. Both patterns are in imperial and metric measurements.

Organic Seasons Jacket Pattern - $4.99

Organic Seasons Blanket Pattern - $4.99

PURCHASE BOTH PATTERNS & RECEIVE A 20% DISCOUNT THROUGH RAVLERY. OFFER ENDS FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2011.

Happy Knitting!

He listened!!

2011-10-24T07:50:00.000-04:00

This is a miracle; my almost 2 year old son LISTENED to me to sit so I could photograph him for my upcoming patterns. I even had a lollipop ready, but he saw the basket of apples and THAT is what he wanted. Yay for no sugar and a healthy snack!

...and, I got my photos!

He didn't want to stand, only sit like a little angel. But, I needed him to stand for me......he obliged!

So, all it takes is a basket of apples. My new secret weapon :)

October.

2011-10-20T09:48:00.001-04:00

Has it really been almost a month since I last posted? Really??

October has been a very busy, yet relaxing month for our family.

We went camping in Gravenhurst for Feast of Tabernacles. We did come home early as it was terribly cold and wet.

I love amping when the parks are virtually empty! It is us and retired couples :)

India knit this adorable scarf for Loxley. It is a simple pattern and stripes! I love stripes. He hated the scarf, until we told him he could go for a walk. When we got home, he didn't want to take it off. So typical!

Do you like his hat? This will be available soon :) It sizes right up to men's.

Dee took some good photos of my Organic Seasons Jacket & Blanket. I am in the process of finalizing the pattern layout. This is tentatively going to be released the first week of November :) I am super excited!

Oh! And, one more thing I am working on; children's sizes 3-14 years in my Union Suit pattern. Those sizes are in testing now! The adult sizes are coming; I am working on those :) Just in time for winter!

Happy Knitting!

Organic Seasons Jacket

2011-09-27T08:13:00.000-04:00

Organic Seasons Jacket in testing! Yay!

I had originally designed this jacket and matching blanket for a submission, which I never heard back from. I won't say who it was, but I hung onto it for a long time, just-in-case :)

I offered it to Knit Picks and they accepted! I chose Knit Picks Swish Tonal Worsted and fell in love :) It was from working with it in these projects that I decided to use it for my Union Suit. It is SO soft!

This Jacket is knit seamlessly, bottom up, sleeves in the round. Once the sleeves are attached to the body, it is knit seamlessly with raglan decreases. Hood is worked with increases up the back and grafted at the top. A year ago, I avoided grafting at all costs; now, I love doing it!

I bought buttons yesterday that are dark wooden leaves and I will try to get those sewn on today.

The size shown is 2 years, however, Lox runs away screaming if he sees the jacket, let alone me trying to MAKE him put it on. I feel serious bribes coming up for the photo shoot :/ Scarlett is proudly modelling and she wears a 4. The jacket is meant to be longer to cover the behind :)

Tentative release date for both blanket & jacket is Early November :)

Happy Knitting!

Organic Seasons Blanket Update

2011-09-22T13:48:00.000-04:00

I finished my blanket! Yay! This has taken way longer than it should have. I worked on a billion other things while trying to knit this and all those duplicate stitched borders are not easy to carry along with me in the car!

Anyways, it is completely finished; blocking included! Have I already mentioned how much I enjoy working with Knit Picks Swish Tonal Worsted? It is soft; next-to-the-skin soft. Beautiful colors and makes for a squishy blanket!

Originally, I was going to do the same season on all four borders. However, for the sample, I chose one season per border. It is very colorful!

It was very hard to get a good photo of the whole blanket. I had to hold the camera up high, hence the wonkiness.

Notice the birds? I think I like them :)

This pattern is currently being tested in Ravelry's Free pattern Testers Group. There are 3 sizes to chose from; Lovie, Stroller & Crib. The Lovie size s all taken, but the others remain :)

The Matching Jacket will be available soon for testing! It is in the preliminary stages :)

Red Union Suit for Loxley

2011-09-14T10:25:00.000-04:00

In my minds eye, waaaay back in January, this is what I had envisioned:

A red Union Suit for Loxley. Isn't he cute?

Look at those curls; it isn't fair!

Since I have knit this Union Suit I have added more depth to the body.

to relieve the gapping at the top.

Front shot. Only a cell phone will hold his attention.

I purchased all these beautiful wood buttons from Eliza's Buttons & Yarn, here in town.

Yarn: Knit Picks Swish Tonal in "Gypsy". I love this yarn. Maybe that isn't a strong enough word?

I have actually used these same small buttons on an aqua baby sweater almost 2 years ago. It is in his baby box now as it was a favorite.

Union Suit Pattern Release....at last!

2011-09-06T12:00:00.000-04:00

Just in time for Fall, the Union Suit Pattern is finally ready!

Description:

“Based on the one piece long underwear worn for the past century in the America’s, the Union Suit is a classic outfit that is designed for comfort and warmth. It features seamless construction with raglan shaping, a front buttoned opening from neck to gusset, a backside opening with buttoned flap, a roomy gusset, tapered arms and legs & doubled cuffs.
“When worked in soft wool, the Union Suit is the perfect outfit to wear over a cloth diaper. Diaper changes can be done by pulling babies legs through the backside flap or through the front opening. The backside flap is also convenient for parents who practice Elimination Communication.
“The Union Suit is sure to be a favourite go-to garment for all parents!”

Sizes:Newborn, 3 months, 6 months, 12 months, 18 months, 2 years, 3 years

Gauge:
20sts & 28 rows = 4" square in Stockinette on US6 (4mm) needles, or size needed to obtain gauge
Yarn:
Newborn(3mon, 6mon, 12mon, 18mon, 2yrs, 3yrs)
Worsted Weight 350(470, 480, 550, 630, 760, 910)yds
Rating:

Advanced Beginner; The Union Suit pattern uses lifted increases, short rows, knitting in the round, seamless knitting, twisted rib stitches. The pattern is clearly written and explains each technique used and/or has a link to a good tutorial.

Union Suit Pattern PDF - $6.99

WIP's...to kill some time!

2011-09-05T16:41:00.001-04:00

What is on my needles these days? Lots! I am in the midst of several projects as I run out of yarn on one, so while waiting, work on another. And so it goes.

Red Union Suit; ran out of yarn and not-so-patiently waiting for it. After all, my pattern release is supposed to be tomorrow! Go HERE for a chance to win a Union Suit Pattern. Be quick; the contest closes tomorrow!

A baby blanket; almost ready for testing, I just need to sit down and finish it up!

A close up of the "summer" border.

All I need to do is sew in a few yarn ends and sew on 3 buttons! Then this tunic is ready for testing.

To match the blanket above, a squishy jacket for Loxley. Notice the Autumn leaves? This has to be one of my most favorite things I have ever knit. Seriously. I can't wait to finish it but alas, I *might* run out of yarn. For the second time. I wish I was kidding about that, but I'm not. For some reason, I am misjudging my yarn requirements and it is frustrating!

Hope you are all well and knitting happily away! Check back tomorrow for the Union Suit pattern release :)

Union Suit Pattern Giveaway!

2011-08-31T09:09:00.000-04:00

In anticipation of my Union Suit Pattern release, next Tuesday, September 6th, Nicole @ Frontier Dreams is hosting a giveaway for one free pattern! Stop on over there; you won't regret it and I bet that you'll be hooked looking at her beautiful babies, knitting creations and fun crafts! She was one of my lovely testers and did a fabulous job on a Union Suit for her little man which an be seen here. The contest is open now and runs until the release date, September 6th.

I had really wanted to have this pattern released in August or even the end of July, however, time didn't permit and I really didn't want it released at the same time as the Twiga Hoodie.

Want to see what's on my needles? Stop by in a day or two for some sneak peaks :D

Knitcircus Winners!

2011-08-25T08:16:00.000-04:00

Thank you to all who participated and gave such fun guesses! I put everyone's names in a bowl and had 4 children choose one name each.

For the Knitcircus, Issue #15 Fall 2011 Pattern Collections, the winners are:

Vanessa
Blue Llama
Sylvie

Now, for a ONE year subscription to Knitcircus, the winner is:

If you see you name here, please email me your email address and I will pass it along to the editor at Knitcircus and she will send you your prize

Congrats to all the winners and thank you to everyone who participated. Come back soon as there will be another contest and giveaway :)

Happy knitting!

Twiga Hoodie

2011-08-24T16:30:00.002-04:00

Knitcircus Issue #15, Fall 2011 can be see here!

Some of you had some pretty close guesses; pullover, hat, fair isle. The part of my design that I asked you to guess on was the inside of the hood!

Twiga Hoodie is a giraffe hoodie with mittens that can be turned back while not in use.

Yarn: South West Trading Company, "Saphira", bulky weight; fun and fast to knit up!

Before I sent off my sample, I made Loxley be my model :) He just didn't want to do it!

The mittens are stitched on the the cuffs at the back of the mitten, then they can be flipped up and buttoned onto the sleeve. Those mitts will NOT get lost!

Top view of the hood, horns and ears.

I will announce the winners tomorrow, so please check back here if you don't hear from me :)

Happy Knitting!

Sneaky Peaky & Give Away !!

2011-08-18T20:21:00.001-04:00

Contest is now closed! Thank you for all the great comments; winner will be announced on the 25th.

Next week, Wednesday, August 24th, Knitcircus Fall 2011 goes live! I am VERY excited about this much anticipated issue because it is going to be HUGE (27 patterns!!!) And..... I have a pattern in there too :D Here is a little sneaky-peaky:

Can you guess what this is? No? That is ok :) You will find out soon :D

Now here is the BEST part: Listen up all you knitters & want-to-learners: I have 3 full Fall 2011 Pattern Collections AND a One Year Subscription to Knitcircus to give away! Isn't that exciting? All you need to do is post a comment and let me know these 2 things:
1) Tell me what you think my pattern is in the upcoming issue of Knitcircus
2) What is your favorite pattern in the current Knitcircus, Summer 2011?

Check out the Knitcircus blog for more sneak peaks

I will announce the winner on Thursday, August 25th, the day after Fall 2011 goes live! Happy Knitting!

Nicolette Pattern Release!

2011-07-28T09:13:00.001-04:00

"Nicolette" - Sizes 0-12

This pattern went together quickly; from the prototype, to the first draft, to the testers to the final layout. I had a wonderful group of 13 testers who quickly finished their Nicolettes and had many detailed notes for me to follow up on. To them I say a huge THANK YOU! This wouldn't have been possible without you :)

Nicolette is a special little top that starts out as a dress and ends as a tunic, providing a few years of wear. The sizes are in ranges: 0-1[1-4, 2-6, 4-8, 6-10, 8-12] years. If you want a dress, you chose the range where your little one fits at the smallest point. For example, for a 1yr old, you could chose size 0-4 for a tunic or 1-4 for a dress.

Nicolette is knit seamlessly from the top down, raglan shaing, an eyelet waistband for a ribbon tie, feather & fan lace for the cuffs and hem. Feminine and fun to knit!

This pattern is available on this blog, through Ravelry and in a few week, Knit Picks. The mauve/rose/grey sample is Knit Picks Chroma Worsted; a lovely & soft wool/nylon blend. The nay/purlple sample is Noro Silk Garden.

"Nicolette" -$4.99

Nicolette

2011-07-12T13:56:00.000-04:00

"Nicolette"

Soon to be available on the blog and through Knit Picks Independent Designer Program.

I used Knit Picks Chroma yarn in color "Regency". One size needle; US 7 (4.5mm) circulars.

Knit seamlessly from the top down, flat, then in the round, Nicolette features an asymmetrical buttoned closure, raglan shaping, eyelet waistband for a ribbon tie, feather & fan lace on the hem and cuffs.

Very simple dress to last more than one season :)

Raveled here!

Preview - Lord Loxley Pullover

2011-07-10T07:56:00.001-04:00

Lord Loxley Pullover featured in Knit Issue 40. Something fun that I worked on over the winter :) The issue isn't released until sometime this week, I believe, but it was exciting to see the preview!

What a cute little model! I wonder how hard it was to take his photo while he was moving? I bet he moved alot!

Yes, front cover :) That made me smile :D

Lord Loxley is knit up in Rowan Pure Wool DK; very nice soft yarn to work with. It is knit seamlessly, in the round, from the bottom up, raglan sleeves, v-neck & hood. The cable runs up the front, up the back and over the hood.

A fun element to this pullover is that the sleeves are detachable. Much more versatile, especially for children who need something warm in the cooler months.

Sleeves have snap tape and they snap to the inside of the sleeve cuffs.

Lord Loxley is named after my little guy, Loxley; always on the move and such a great source of inspiration :D

Union Suit!

2011-07-01T16:38:00.001-04:00

I have wanted to knit a Union Suit for a long time. I did the Little Johns with the butt flap as a starting point. Finally I have what I want!

This little suit is knit from the ribbed neck line down, with raglan shaping, front opening with button bands, roomy arms and legs with doubled cuffs. The backside flap covers up the back opening; if you use Elimination Communication, this could work! You can also change the baby by opening up the flap and pulling the legs out as there are no openings on the inner legs.

Very simple design but lots of fun to knit!

I used Mirasol Cotanani in "Sunshine". 4mm needles & wooden buttons :)

Newborn, 3mon, 6mon, 12mon, 18mon, 24mon, 3yrs, 4yrs sizes.

If anyone is interested in testing the pattern, please let me know and I will email you the pattern :)

Happy Knitting!

Stuff. More knitting; what did you expect?

2011-06-29T16:49:00.001-04:00

Let's face it. This is a blog about knitting. Not much about family (we are pretty private & The Man wouldn't like that), not about cooking (I do nuff o'that everyday!), not about sewing (no time for that) or anything else. I really admire blogs that are about LIVES; cooking, sewing, health, etc.,. Maybe I will try for something like that next year.

Without further ado, some recent projects that I have finished up but haven't blogged about.

Superhero Blanket for Jadyn. This is a Jadyn Blanket Pattern made in all sorts of pinks/purples with yellow nubbs. Jadyn is a very inspirational little girl with and amazing mama! Luv you guys!

For Lox, he has literally worn out most of his wool covers from wearing them for 19 months. I have been knitting him a cover her week (usually on Saturday) and so far, here are two:

I used Cascade 220 & 220 Heathers. Leftovers from my grey Little Johns.

Eruption Pants!! The girls nick named these shorts due to the volcano-like colors, but have since decided that the name is TOO appropriate :)

Bugging the bird...

I am currently working on a Union Suit pattern for baby/toddler sizes. This one is a size newborn, using Mirasol Cotanani. In a few days, it will be done :)

Happy Knitting!

Likin' It

2011-06-26T10:09:00.001-04:00

I met a very talented lady on Ravelry a few years ago and was always in awe of her designs. She has such a natural creativity that is simple and beautiful, all at once. I *wish* I could knit like she does! I just completed a test knit for one of her patterns and it was so much fun! Likin' It is a top down, seamless tunic that is knit on the bias. I love bias knitting; it is always so flattering.

This is how the tunic looks on myself. I need to find something better to go underneath that doesn't show.

...and on India. Who is taller by 3.5" and waaaay slimmer!

This is very flattering to so many figure types, due to it being knit on the bias.

Likin' It Here!

Little Johns Pattern Release!

2011-06-17T09:35:00.001-04:00

It is finally here! After many hours of editing, testing, knitting, "Little Johns" pattern is finally finished. I had the privilege of working with a wonderful group of testers on Ravelry who all happen to be cloth diapering mamas and experienced soaker/longie knitters. There input was so valuable in the finalization of this pattern! Thank you mamas! This pattern is rated Advanced Beginner/Intermediate.

Inspired by long johns my husband wore on our honeymoon as a joke, these unisex little pants are not only cute, but functional. Worked in 100% wool for wear over a cloth diaper, Little Johns will provide your wee one with warmth and comfort.

Worked seamlessly from the waistband down, in the round and then flat, they feature a twisted rib waistband, an I-cord drawstring, a backside flap with 2 large buttons + a smaller button, a gusset shaped with lifted increases, slightly tapered legs and a doubled cuff.

Little Johns also come with an optional striping sequence for the cuffs to mimic classic wool work socks, which are not shown in these photos...

Desperate times called for desperate measures; I had to give Lox the only treat I had to make him stand somewhat still.....you should have seen him when I pried that sticky lollipop from his hands!

Little Johns Pattern $4.99

A little lull...

2011-05-26T11:19:00.001-04:00

Not because I haven't been knitting. Mostly because I have been too busy. And, I stink at blogging :)

I have a few fun projects on the go right now. A couple I can't share just yet :)

Here is "Nicolette", a dress/tunic top for my soon to be niece. The pattern is in the works :)

Size shown is a 12months dress which can be worn right up to age 2 or 3 as shown on Scarlett who is 3.5. I really love patterns (and designing patterns!) that cover a range of sizes. It is shown in Noro Silk Garden & features seamless construction, a buttoned opening on the raglan seam, eyelet waistband with ribbon, and a feather & fan lace pattern on the cuffs and hem.

Very easy!

Here is something I have had rolling around my brain for a while. I did an exhaustive Internet/Ravelry search to see if I could find something similar before I spent the time designing this.

"Little Johns" are a part of a series of patterns based around the outdoors and Union Suits. The are longies featuring a "butt flap", seamless construction, I-cord drawstring, doubled, ribbed cuffs. This pattern is going to be available in sizes newborn to size 10. It is in the final stages of testing and layout! It will be available here, on Ravelry and through Knit Picks

I have also included optional striping for the whole traditional "wool work sock" effect....

Knit in Cascade 220, but ill be re-knit in Knit Picks Wool of the Andes; RED!!

Look out for my next pattern; a Union Suit for babies- toddlers!!

Happy Knitting!

SOS Shawl

2011-04-22T15:46:00.001-04:00

Ok, almost a month since I have posted here? Really?? Where did that month go??? Oh I guess I got a part time job, and designing a tiny bit, homeschooling, yeah, that's where it went :)

I finished my SOS shawl! I am not a huge shawl wearer, but I totally envy India's Simplicity Shawl. She wears it around the house and it is so warm and cozy. When Trisha asked me to test knit this for her I was so excited! I used Elann's Peruvian Pure Alpaca Worsted in Pewter Gray and Dark Gray for the bottom edging on 4mm needles. I could have used a 4.5mm needle, but this is fine.

It took me a few weeks in between projects but I found it easy to stop and restart.

The patterns are easy to memorize and see where you are just from looking at your knitting. India is modelling for me :) You can find the pattern here: SOS Shawl by Trisha Paetsch. Happy knitting!

Simply Spring Beanie - Free Pattern Release!

2011-03-27T16:02:00.001-04:00

Here it is! "Simply Spring Beanie" pattern release!

Available in sizes preemie through adult male.

It was designed in Knit Picks Simply Organic Cotton, so I have added in an allowance for shrinkage.

“Simply Spring Beanies are the quintessential hat for any age. Perfect for the Spring and Summer, they keep your head cool and the wind out.

Knit seamlessly in the round, from the top down, lifted increases are used for a smooth transition with a twisted ribbed band to help keep the hat in place. The beanie is meant to cover the ears halfway and an allowance is made for shrinkage. Directions are given for optional striping pattern.

Seven sizes included to fit preemie up to adult male.”

Simply Spring Beanie - free pattern PDF

Tutorials & Techniques

2011-03-27T08:36:00.000-04:00

To help out with some of the less common techniques found in my patterns, I have created a Tutorials page on the top bar. Unfortunately, my own video camera is not working, so I had to snag videos from the net. Once, my camera is happy again, I will make my own, specific to the patterns. I hope this helps you all! I will be updating it as I go.

If there is anything you would like me to add or questions, let me know and I will do my best to add it in :)

Happy Knitting!

New things...

2011-03-22T07:53:00.001-04:00

So many new ideas that I want to share, but I just can't yet. Soon. I hope soon. Meanwhile, here is a sneak peak, at least as much of a peak as I am allowed for an upcoming pattern :D Ok, so you can't really see anything except for an adorable boy, but use your imagination...

Well, one thing I can share: I will have a new free pattern up for this cute little beanie. It is perfect for the Spring as it is in Organic Cotton. I actually made a few for The Man to wear to the gym so those photos will be coming when I can pin him down :)

Anyone have any good ideas for this pretty yarn?

It is Madeline Tosh DK and the color is Ms.Taylor. My daughters kindergarten teachers name. I think they may have been referring to Elizabeth Taylor, but I still think of the Kindergarten teacher :)

Finished!

2011-03-17T15:40:00.001-04:00

I finished Loxley's Baby Wrap Pants. Nice and soft! But, wow! Talk about tons of vegetation in the yarn: Jo Sharp Silkroad Tweed. It took me longer than usual because I didn't want anything poking him. I went through my buttons and chose 18 mismatched buttons for the sides. I didn't bother with buttonholes, I just sewed the buttons on through all layers. I also added an eyelet row at the waist with a crocheted drawstring. Otherwise, he would have those pants off in no time :)

Pattern: "Baby Wrap Pants" by: Maude L. Baril

Yarn: Jo Sharp Silkroad Tweed

Last week, before the pattern release, I finished up a Jadyn's Blanket but haven't had time to post it here. It will end up being for a little girl as it has pale pink bobbles all over.

I used various yarns including Elann's Peruvian Alpaca & Superwash Worsted, Cascade 220, Katia Scotch Tweed, London Tweed and some Knit Picks Merino Style.

Lots of fun to knit and I really am pleased with the colours!

Jadyn's Blanket Pattern Release!

2011-03-10T19:35:00.001-05:00

What better way to keep your baby snug than a hand knit blanket?

This blanket is simple to knit, uses up smaller amounts of yarn and features colourful stripes and bobbles to stimulate baby’s senses.

Worked from the center out beginning with Judy’s Magic Cast On, increases are used at each corner and the blanket is finished off with an I-cord bind off. This type of cast on makes this blanket a very unique rectangular shape, unlike other blankets knit from the center out.

Bobbles are worked randomly, as you knit, with a guide on which row they are to be worked. The photo above shows a random placement for the bobbles and I knit them on afterwards.

The blanket has two edge options; I-cord only or garter stitch borders with an I-cord edge, as shown above.

Jadyn's Blanket is inspired by my cousins little daughter who is a super hero of a girl!

Jadyn's Blanket Pattern PDF is available here or on Ravelry for $4.99

Jadyn's Blanket

I am thankful for the snow because....

2011-03-07T17:43:00.001-05:00

.....I can knit more warm things. That is about it. Actually winter has always been my favorite season. I love the cold, fresh air, winter sports, wearing think clothing. For some reason, I am pretty much ready for it to be done. I look forward to swimming and gardening (yes, I just said that!) and having the laundry hanging outside. Oh, and camping. I really want to go camping again!

Not very knitting related, I know, but just needed to be said.

To pass some more time, while it snowed again this weekend, I started a cool pair of longies for Lox, who is growing like a weed. They are called "Baby Wrap Pants" by Maude Baril. Pretty nifty, I'd say. I am making his in one colour, with mismatched buttons. I am also adding a drawstring as The Boy likes to pull all his pants and diapers off, if at all possible. I am using Jo Sharp Silkroad Tweed DK in "Butternut"; this colour is just as it sounds:

Ok, those pants don't look like much now, but just you wait and see!

I am also working on a test/sample knit blanket, Jadyn's Blanket which I plan to release soon. The pattern is complete, edited, just needs to be laid out and photos added. Then, I will knit a PINK one for Jadyn :)

Instead of knitting the bobbles on as I went, I placed safety pins to place them out and will knit them on after, most likely all in the same color.

And, a photo of the boys with my brothers dog, Kobe, juts because they are cute :)

Happy Knitting!

Liv's Coat Pattern Release!

2011-03-03T16:51:00.001-05:00

A new pattern for babies and children in sizes 3 months to 4 years. This coat is lovingly named after my friend, Tara's daughter :)

*Knit seamlessly from the neck down, this classic little jacket features unique asymmetrical diamond cabling on the fronts, sleeves and back, as well as running up and over the hood. The hood is knit on from the neck up. Cuffs, hem, front opening and hood bands are all done in garter stitch with a contrasting i-cord edge applied last. A zipper helps to keep the chill out. 2-3” of positive ease make this the perfect indoor/outdoor jacket.*

Sample is knit with Knit Picks Swish DK in Dove Grey an Amethyst Heather.

Skill Level : Advanced Beginner

Released today at Knit Picks!

What I love about Knit Picks patterns is you have yarn options for each pattern and it calculates the amount needed and cost. Very handy!

Swish Dk is a soft super wash yarn that really impressed me. Once blocked, it blooms beautifully and softens up even more.

Liv's Coat Pattern available at Knit Picks or here for $4.99 :)

It is raining!

2011-02-28T07:42:00.000-05:00

Our weather is so up and down. It varies within 24hrs, sometimes by 30 degrees! The rain is nice, though :)

This past weekend, I finished up some knitting for the kids.

Willows Coat. I used the Liv's Coat Pattern and added side increases, buttons and loops.

Knit Picks is going to be putting my pattern, Liv's Coat, up on Thursday, March 3rd! This has been a lengthy process, although shorter than most, but well worth the wait. I had a wonderful bunch of ladies test knit the pattern, so I am sending out a THANK YOU to Debbie, Maria, Charlene & Kathy! You all helped me so much and were so wonderful to deal with.

Ok, now it is snowing like crazy!!

Woohoo! An Award!

2011-02-21T08:07:00.000-05:00

I am so grateful to have received this Stylish Blogger Award from Angel over at Organic Life Learning.

Go check out her cool blog now! I have known Angel for a few years now and have the privilege of knowing her in real life! We have many things in common including each having a large family and bucking the system a wee bit ;)

The rules are to share seven things about me and then pay it forward to fifteen other blogs. I simply don't have the time to keep up with more than a few blogs and even those I catch up on about once every 2 wks!
Here are some blogs that I try to catch on a somewhat regular basis with my limited blog reading time:

One of Many

Delightful Learning

Living in Lilliput

Lifestyle of Learning

Cafe Yamashita

I Refuse
Movie Making Monster

A little about me :

1. I want to own a property and live totally off the grid :)

2. I am very flexible and used to want to be a contortionist and join Cirque Du Soleil when I grew up. Maybe that is still possible?

3. I am very close to my brother. I always have been, and can't imagine not being that way in the future.

4. I have had 2 babies in my teens, 3 in my 20's and 3 in my 30's.

5. I have lived on Grand Cayman for a short while with some good friends.

6. I do not really collect anything other than yarn. No figurines, no crystal, no dish sets. I do however have an impressive amount of yarn :)

7. I do not have a tattoo. I am probably one of the few people left that has decided no to follow this trend.

Lox

2011-02-20T07:29:00.000-05:00

15 months old.

Lots of trouble.

But, super cute!

Beanie hat to keep his hair back.

All the boys will get one to match The Man :)

Breast Hat Pattern Release!

2011-02-17T19:12:00.000-05:00

Here it is in all it's glory; the Breast Hat Pattern. Okay, it really is just a simple top down, knit in the round beanie. Still, it is fast and fun and cute to boot!

Who says all breasts are white??? I am sure that somewhere there are multicolored pink ones :)

Of all my kids (other than the BOYS, of course!!) only Mady would proudly wear a breast on her head :D

This hat is so comfortable!

For the Breast Hats, I used Knit Picks Simply Cotton Worsted in "Malted Milk" (I am not kidding!) & Dogwood Heather for the white breast and "Toffee" & "Reindeer Heather" for the darker breast. VERY soft, organic yarn. I am not a fan of knitting with cotton as it does not have any give, but these were so soft and luscious, I will definitely use it again to make little baby hats.

A special hat for my new little niece yet to come. Knit from Noro Silk Garden. Perfect for a little girl :)

Sizes are preemie to large adult

I rate this pattern beginner to advanced beginner as it is knit from the top down, in the round, using circular needles. The increases used are lifted increase; wonderful increases, but a bit tricky. I highly recommend this video.

Free Breast Hat Pattern here! Have fun with it and be creative (wouldn't a breast beret be funny?) Happy knitting!

Oh, you know you WANT to make one of these!

2011-02-13T18:26:00.000-05:00

Friday will be a fun day. I am releasing a free pattern for a top down hat. Super easy, super customizable, super cute. How can you resist? Remember this little hat?

I have finally written my pattern! But wait, it comes with options...customizable nipple and areola! Really, it does!

And, two band options; rolled and ribbed.

Sizes preemie to large adult. Preemies need love too and what adult male wouldn't want a hat in the shape of a breast? Can you imagine the banter in the locker room?

This hat is a great accessory to promote breastfeeding, raise awareness for breast cancer or as a comical gift.

More photos coming later this week :)

For the little girls...

2011-02-06T01:37:00.000-05:00

Because everyone here wants a Hoot Toque, I have been knitting them left, right and center! I let the girls pick the beak colours :) I chose the eye colours to co-ordinate... For Willow (child size):

For Scarlett (toddler size):

The boys want black (Levi) & green (Sage). Is it weird to make a green owl? We'll soon find out!

Hoot Toque Pattern Release!

2011-02-01T23:06:00.000-05:00

This came about alot quicker than I expected, thanks to some wonderful test knitters and a dear friend who edited the pattern for me! Without further ado, here is the Hoot Toque knitting Pattern:

"Knit seamlessly from the top down, using Judy’s Magic Cast On & 2 sets of circular needles, you can knit this little hat in just a few hours. Eyes and beak are embroidered on and the ears are tied on. Features ear flaps, a comfortable fit, and nice long i-cord ties; leave them undone or tie them up tight!”

7 sizes available: Preemie- 4-5lbs To Fit: 11.5-12.2” head

Newborn- 0/3 months To Fit: 13-14” head

Baby-3/12 months To Fit: 14-17” head

Toddler - 12 months-3 years To Fit: 18-20” head

Child- 3-10 years To Fit: 19-20.5” head

Adult Woman- To Fit: 21.5-22.5” head

Adult Man- To Fit: 23-24” head

Eyes & beak are embroidered on using chain stitch and long stitch. Ears are tassels.

Difficulty Rating - Advanced Beginner

Hoot Toque - knitting pattern $2.99

Pattern support is free :)

Liv's Coat

2011-01-30T16:29:00.000-05:00

This is how Lox feels about his new coat:

He is teething. But sometimes I can coax a smile out of him.

See, now he is happy :) He loves it when I let him play the piano...

Maybe I should always let him play the piano when I am trying to take his photos for a new pattern :)

Pattern available at Knit Picks soon!

Hoot Toque

2011-01-24T22:32:00.000-05:00

Loxley needed a new hat. He keeps growing. I want him to stay little forever. I also like forest animals and made him this:

"Hoot Toque"

He LOVES this hat. I mean, he REALLY loves it.

It is knit seamlessly from the top down (have I ever mentioned how much I dislike seaming?), has ear flaps and i-cord ties. The eyes and beak are embroidered on. This took me all of one evening.

I will make him matching mittens next week...

Pattern will be available in February, in sizes newborn to adult. I can't wait to knit some more!

Oh it is so cold out there!

2011-01-14T15:05:00.000-05:00

We have had some pretty cold temps here! It has been too cold some days for the kids to play outside...it gets pretty boring without being able to play in the snow. For me, i don't mind being forced to relax and read to them while I knit :)

I have been working on some new patterns and finishing up some old ones. I made a cowl for my friend, Angelina:

Isn't she pretty? I made mittens for her last year too :) The cowl is "Weather The Storm Cowl" by Trisha Paetsch. For both mittens and cowl, I used Cascade 220 in a teal colour and for the interior of the cowl, I used a medium grey alpaca/bamboo blend by Mirasol named Qina.

For Crystal & Shawn's baby, Lincoln:

My billionth Baby Surprise jacket! I used some leftovers of Elann's sport weight highland wool, and some Lana Gatto Alpaca. I found some cool retro buttons that my mom had hung onto since my brother was little. India handmade the card. She has her own little Etsy shop here :)

Longies for Mr.Loxley:

He is so cute! I love this guy :) I used black Patons wool (this stuff pills like nobody's business!) and the blue is a hand dyed Araucania yarn, Atacama. I only had the one small skein, so I paired it with the black. He wears these alot! This is a basic longie pattern that I made up as I went along.

A Coin Lace Scarf for me:

hahaha! You can see my dimples in this photo :) This scarf is very long! It took me several weeks to knit in between other projects. it is Shui Kuen's "Coin Lace Stole" pattern. I used three whole skein of Knit Picks Imagination Hand Painted Sock yarn. Very soft and pretty.

A Sea Princess Jacket for Scarlett:

This is to match her Yacht Club Skirt. It is a pattern by Anadiomena; Sea Princess. I love this pattern!! I have knit it twice and will knit it again. I used Elann's Superwash Bamboo that is now, sadly, discontinued.

I will admit that some of these projects have been completed for a while. I just have been a bad blog neglector. Is neglector a word? Well, if not, it is now!

Yard Sale!

2011-01-11T08:55:00.000-05:00

I have created a Yard Sale page where, as time permits, I will be adding yarn and hand knit garments that need a new home. Shipping is included in all prices and everything comes from a smoke and pet free home. All garments will have been depilled and washed by hand in Eucalan. They will also include descriptions, sizing & anything else that is pertinent to the garment. If you have any questions, please feel free to email me :)

Inspirational Bootee Ideas!

2011-01-06T21:37:00.000-05:00

Over the past 2+ years that the Inspired Bootees Pattern (aka BSJ Inspired Bootees) has been on Ravelry, I have really enjoyed seeing how so many have taken a simple pattern and made it their own. There are so many creative, talented ladies (and some gents!) out there, I am thoroughly impressed! Below, with permission, I have included some photos, comments, blogs and etsy shops for you to explore and get your creative juices flowing to think outside of the box.

From Sonia, aka PeacefulKnitter on Ravelry:

What sweet variegated yarn!

Here is Sonia's blog: Peaceful Knitter

Isn't her little girl adorable?!?!

From Amy Gillespie, aka evelynnsmommy on Ravelry:

Can you guess what these are?

Here's another clue:

Ok, now I am hungry! Are those bootees and hat delicious? Visit Amy at her blog here, and her Etsy shop here. She has wonderful patterns!

Here are her modifications: "I shortened the section before the ribbing to only 6 rows of garter stitch in the pink yarn. Then I switched to brown but I didn’t switch needles for the ribbing. Then I added picot edging (With a crochet hook slip a stitch into the last pink row, Chain 3 stitches, slip stitch back into the original stitch to make a little loop. Single crochet into the next stitch around. And repeat around the cuff). If I’d thought about it I would have put in eyelets for ties, but I didn’t, so I just made an ornamental tie with about 45-50 chain stitches and attached some crochet cherries to the ends." Amy.

From Alison, aka fjorlief on Ravelry:

Little Green Feet; I love these :) Here is Alison's Blog with her modifications.

From Elizabeth, aka CountingSheep on Ravelry:

Aren't these cute little apple bootees? She made them to welcome her new little girl into the world; congrats to your whole family! Read about Elizabeth and her knitting at her blog here.

From Katie, aka tangledfleece on Ravelry:

Aren't those adorable??? The little pants and the whole outfit are adorable!
You can read more about Katie's knitting adventures here.

Those are just a few of the super unique ideas I have seen around of the Inspired Bootees. Keep it up everyone! I love seeing all your lovely babies in their cute little bootees :D

You can get your Inspired Bootees Pattern Here :) Happy Knitting!

Inspired Bootee Pattern Release!

2010-12-31T10:41:00.000-05:00

Inspired Bootee Pattern is here!

Click here to access your personal copy!

It includes:
- 5 sizes - preemie/newborn, 0-6months, 12 months, 18 months, 2 years. These bootees are stretchy so they fit for a long time!
- 4 different ankle band options; garter, ribbed, with or without eyelets
- 2 ties options; crochet or i-cord
- suede no-skid sole instructions
- schematics! measurements included to get the best fit
- notes on where to change colours
- many good clear photos of mattress stitch, different styles, suede soles

These bootees are knit flat, from the top of the cuff down with only one seam up the back, using the mattress stitch to reduce bulk and maintain comfort. They will only take a few hours to make or less! They make the perfect accessory to any little outfit. Since these are knit in garter stitch (nice and easy!), they are quite stretchy and fit longer than regular bootees or socks. For instance, the largest size fits a 2- 5 year old, with average feet. Hmmm, makes me wonder if these would be cute in adult sizes.....

No-skid suede soles

Tie bootees at the back or sides..you can also fold them down to cover the ties and keep little fingers out of there!

I look forward to seeing every ones unique little Inspired Bootees! Much blessings to all :)

Remember This?

2010-12-29T08:54:00.000-05:00

The big reason for me starting a blog was so that I could post a free pattern on Ravelry. You needed to have a place on the web where the pattern could be linked to until they had time to put up your pdf of the pattern. Oh the Beta version of Ravelry: how far it has come! This was August 2008. Here is my bootee pattern:

Over the past few weeks, as I have had time (hahaha!), I have been re-knitting, expanding and improving this first pattern. I decided to check Ravelry to see how popular this pattern is and if it is worth the effort. Out of 1387 knitting patterns for bootees, I ranked as the 28th most popular. Seriously. I was SO shocked, not because I don't think it is a great little bootee, but because I really had no idea. I am actually very flattered and encouraged!

Here are the changes being made:
- easier to understand (this is huge, I really had no idea how frustrating the old pattern could be! I am amazed that so many pressed on; thank you!)
- 4 different ankle band options; garter stitch, garter st with eyelets, ribbed & ribbed with eyelets.
- 5 sizes (up from 3) - preemie/newborn, 0-6months, 6-12 months, 18months, 2 years
- schematics. Yes, I actually made schematics for a bootee; has this ever been done before? I don't know, but I have never seen it!
- 2 different tie options
- suede no skid sole instructions
- directions for colour changes so that you can use leftovers; cuff, top of foot, foot, sole.
- many clear photos of the different styles.
- a new name! I have decided to use a new name as I do not want any copyright issues with the BSJ part.

Because of all these changes and extra work (I have knit 7 pairs of bootees!!), I will be charging $2 for the new pattern. However, once the pattern is released, it will be FREE for the first day. Everyone will have the equal opportunity to have the full pattern as a special thank you from me. The release date will be Friday, December 31, 2010. Please watch for it and download your free pattern! much love to you all :)

From Sheep to Sweater - Part I

2010-12-15T14:53:00.000-05:00

In October 2009, a good family friend invited us to her parents hobby farm so that we could watch the sheep getting sheared and all the cute new lambs. It was very entertaining to see how all the sheep had such distinct personalities and baa's. Sage was a very good imitator :) He kept us laughing the whole time!

So, I have had a garbage bag of fleece sitting in my basement, then the garage, then the basement for a whole year. I was too nervous to wash it and ruin it, let alone do anything else with it! However, due to the amazing properties of wool, when I opened the bag, there was NO smell! No mold, no poop, no nothing. the sheep smell was hardly there. I am thinking that that familiar "sheep" smell is really poop-on-sheep-smell. Anyways, it was such a relief to know that the fleece was not ruined by neglect.

I picked through the fleece and picked out bits of grass, vegetation, poop (yuck!) and burrs. Then I washed it! I filled a 5 gallon bucket with the hottest water, added dish detergent and vinegar, and then set a batch of fleece in there the soak. Soaked it for about an hour or so, then dumped it into the washer to be spun out. You would not believe the black color of the water. It was gross. I did rinse it and it came out so clean. Such a beautiful natural shade of cream (how can I possibly dye such a lovely color?)...I then laid it on a towel in my living room and flipped it over every hour until dry. It is so beautiful. SO beautiful!

Rudy made a wooden spindle for me and I have started to spin a little. It is such a slow process for me though. I have some large pet brushes that I use for carding and then my homemade spindle. I haven't had time to work on it the past month. but maybe in a week or two, I will be able to finish it up.....Stay tuned :)

Come Join a Contest on Pamelamama's blog!

2010-12-15T08:53:00.000-05:00

Here is the perfect opportunity to win a book for every knitter alike! It is the new Debbie Stoller Stitch n' Bitch Nation book. Many great patterns, clear instructions and wonderful tutorials for different cast ons, and other techniques. Also, Pamela has many other great give aways right now including some of her own patterns, yarn (!)...Please check it out here :) Oh and let me know if you end up winning anything because I will be just as happy for you! the contest ends this Friday, December 17th, so don't hesitate!

Weather The Storm

2010-11-27T17:16:00.000-05:00

It's Canada and man, is it cold! My good friend, Trisha, has had some wickedly cold weather out in Alberta lately. REALLY cold. Freeze-the-water-in-your-eyes kind of cold. She decided to knit a very warm cowl. Because, you just can't go outside without one! I test knit one for her in less than a day and it is very easy, and instantly gratifying. Dee claimed it to wear when she goes to work and waits at the bus stop. Check it out :

I am so excited about THIS!

2010-11-24T23:38:00.000-05:00

Looky HERE!! A new Lookbook from Three Irish Girls! Why is this so exciting? My first published design is within those pages along with 40 other new patterns from a bunch of wonderful designers! It also contains new yummy yarn colorways.....there is just not enough time in this life to knit all that I want to knit!

There has been much anticipation and waiting and hard work that went into this book. I am so proud of all the designers and Sharon's whole team that pulled this together. Way to go!

"Sweet Hilda" is named for my grandmother who taught me how to knit when I was only four. She opened the world of fibre arts to me and I am so very grateful. As a little girl, I slept with "Lambie", favorite song was "Baa,baa, black sheep".....yes, I was destined to be a knitter :)

I had the privilege of using Three Irish Girls Springvale Merino in "Molly" and "Enna". It was a pleasure to knit with and happened to be in one of my favorite colours; it was like Sharon knew that already :)

The first photos are the professional photos for the pattern. This is not Willow :) Her photos will be here another day... Size 4.

Scarlett's Sweet Hilda is in a size 2. She loves this poncho and is so proud that I knit it just for her :)

Autumn has come...

2010-11-07T19:27:00.000-05:00

Autumn is not really my favorite season, but what I do love about it is that the knitting season has begun!

What have I been working on? A few small test knits for Anadiomena, test knitting for one of my patterns soon to be released, mitts for my dad and father-in-law, some other small gifts. Birthday season, for our family hits hard in October and doesn't end until the spring with one birthday in the summer.....

We also got our family photos done by a fantastic local guy : Michael Steingard. Totally awesome experience and if you live in and around this area, I HIGHLY recommend him. Heck, he was like part of the family :) Oh and if you are far away, he TRAVELS! Yes, folks, he will come to you; you can't beat that :D Please take a look at his blog; you will be glad that you did... We have a few sneak peak photos, so I will start with one of those...

The Gang

Simplicity Triangular Shawl by Shui Kuen Kozinski in Noro Kureyon Sock and Knit Picks Palette "lipstick". This was A LOT of fun to knit and very easy too. Highly recommend this pattern. I use it as a scarf around my neck, but India is wearing it in the photos across her back so that you can see it better. Raveled here!

Another Baby Surprise Jacket , but done in stockinette instead of garter st. I used several colors of Knit Picks Shine Worsted. Lovely and soft! I knit this as gift for our friends expecting their second baby. they stopped by one evening and a few hours later their baby was born! Raveled here :)

"Veyla" Fingerless Mitts by Ysolda Teague in Knit Picks Palette "Edamame" & "Clover". The shawl is the Luna Moth Shawl by S.K. Kozinski in "Edamame". A gift for an aunt...Raveled here and here :)

Elizabeth Bonnet by Amber Perry in Elann Pegasus. This was a test knit and I love this pattern! This will be a gift but not sure to who yet; everyone seems to be having boys! Raveled here :)

"Camden" in Elann Peruvian Pure Alpaca. Very warm sweater! Great pattern too.....I did not have enough yarn to do the sleeves. Wish I did...they are very cool! Raveled here :)

"Blush" in Knit Picks Palette natural merino wool and Araucania worsted. Fun and easy to knit. I did add some waist shaping and made the armholes a little larger as per other Ravellers suggestions. Ravelled here!

"Dancing Crane" stole by S.K. Kozinski done in Elann baby cashmere in "Cashmere Blue". This is a gift fro my Aunt's 70th birthday. Below is the first one I did, for my mom, in Elann's silken kydd.

That is all for now. I have knit alot this year, mostly to learn new tricks and techniques but also for relaxation....I am allllll about relaxin'!

Testing...testing!

2010-11-04T23:46:00.000-04:00

I have been doing A LOT of sample and test knitting lately. I have not really been working on my own projects because I over commited myself, just a tad! I can share some info here, but other projects will have to wait until the patterns or yarns go "live" :) For those interested, here is a brief description of sample and test knitting as they are different.

Sample Knitting - samples are knit from patterns already edited or existing ones, with the purpose of the sample being photographed for website, brochure, magazine, etc.,. This is paid work, either by credit or cash. Sometimes the sample is returned to the knitter, sometimes not :)

Test Knitting - test knitting is done on an unedited pattern with the purpose of testing out the pattern for size, wording, mistakes, or other issues that might arise. A lot of times, test knitting is voluntary, and the knitter can chose the size and yarn they would like to use. Some pattern designers will send yarn to be knit with, but in most cases, it is up to the testers. There are usually several test knitters. The reward is the free, unavailable pattern, a knit item to keep and helping out a fellow knitter.

For samples, I am working on 4 samples for 2 different companies. I am almost done the first one and then the other 3 should go pretty quickly. Unfortunately, you will have to wait to see these fun items :D

For testing, I have the opportunity to test knit for a fellow Raveler who designs beautiful children's clothing. She has an adorable little girl that models all these sweet designs :) Most of Anadiomena's patterns are free, too! I have tested the Yacht Club Skirt in 2 sizes with 2 different yarn weights. I knit one for Willow and one for Scarlett :) I am so excited about this! They love their skirts already!

I also test knit a sweater, The Sea Princess, and so far have Willow's done. Next will be the matching berets :)

So, this is where I am at right now. I have managed to get quite a bit of knitting done since January, this year, but have not blogged about it. I will add a few of my favorites :) Happy Knitting!

Yacht club Skirts & Sea Princess Cardigan

A little catching up...

2010-07-16T23:15:00.000-04:00

Original post written January 2010...

Since December, I have managed to finish up some projects, start and finish many easy ones and start some more complex ones. Since I really do not have much knitting time, I have fallen back on some old favorites, such as Bellas Mittens. I have knit 3 pairs! I used Cascade 220, held doubled, in three different colorways; purple for Dee with a matching scarf, Teal for a friend, and Pea Green for India. I still have at least 3 more pairs to knit as they are chunky and warm and they knit up quickly. If I had more time, I could easily get a pair done in a day, but as time is limited and I only do a row or two at a time, it takes me a few days to a week. For Dee's pair, I shortened the cuff so that they are easier to take on and off when you have a coat on. I only posted Dee's photos. The matching scarf is Gathered Scarf

by Maryse Roudier .

For Willow, I knit a Pinwheel sweater using leftovers of Elann's Peruvian highland Wool. I had not initially liked this pattern but it really is fun to knit, quick, somewhat knidless and very cute once i is done! The really neat advantage to this sweater is that is fits 9 months to about 4 or 5 years old. If you flip is around with the larger part of the circle at the top, it acts as a hood for a baby/toddler and you just roll up the sleeves. Flip it the way it is shown on Willow, and it will fit an older child! Raveled here :)

Speaking of purple, I picked up an old project to finish; Wisp. I used Elann's Super Kydd in Gothic Grape. I started out with more stitches to make it wider. Raveled here :)

To match the Baby Legwarmers, I made a rainbow jacket using Knit Picks Palette. This is a Phildar pattern, that I don't think is listed on Ravelry yet. Raveled here :)

India knit this adorable little sweater for Lox and I made the matching hat. It is another Phildar pattern (can you tell I love Phildar??). It is from Tricotez Calin Printemps/Ete 2007. We did some mods: seamless from the bottom up with raglan sleeves. i think stripes look nice when they connect on the sleevers. Raveled here :)

I am going to be spending some time updating my blog and adding some new features. It has been sadly neglected as I have been busy taking care of my family. I also wasn't happy with how timeconsuming it was to load photos and links, but now it is so much easier! So, stay tuned :)

A Sweet Little Knit :)

2009-12-15T22:08:00.000-05:00

Just a quick post to say that our little one finally arrived on Monday, November 9th @ 3:34am. His name is Loxley and he was 9lbs 1oz. He is now 5 wks old and smiling at us all, melting our hearts! I haven't been knitting much and still have lots to share that I knit before he was born, so I will try to catch up over the next couple of weeks.

Bunches of Baby Knits

2009-11-08T08:37:00.001-05:00

I wrote this the day before Loxley was born, but never had a chance to upload photos...

I have been very busy knitting over the past few months, but haven't had time to blog to share :) Knitting wee things is so quick and makes you feel like you have accomplished so much! I will keep this brief and full of photos :D

Curly Purly diaper covers (soakers) using leftover wool yarn from various projects.

Easy Raglan Sweater by Marie Connolly in The Expectant Knitter. Used Debbie Bliss Cashmerino DK leftover from India's Corona sweater. I ran out right at the end, so I used some dark teal DB cashmerino for the loops and sleeve edges.

Ok, I used the Curly Purly diaper cover pattern for the top portion of the pants as I love not have to use a drawstring. Then, I added a gusset and legs. I used Noro Kureyon and made size 0-3 months. Raveled here!

Another raglan sweater from The Expectant Knitter. This is the one in the book, for the yellow one, I added my own pattern and short sleeves. The hat is the Ganomy Hat from Elizabeth Zimmermann's Knitters Almanac. Lox wears this hat all the time! Raveled here and here.

Another pattern from The Expectant Knitter! Baby Leg Warmers! I used Knit Picks Pallete yarn and made size 3-12 months. Raveled here.

Fleur-de-Lis by Shui Kuen Kozinski in Knitting Fever Angora Extra. So soft! The pattern is available on Ravelry. My project notes are here.

Willow really wanted a new sweater. I bought some Diamond Yarn Edo at the LYS especially for her :) I had to have pink! The pattern is from Phildars Pitchoun Fall/Winter 2--8/09. The buttons are rosewood made by a local craftsperson, also from our LYS. Willow loves this sweater and wears it alot :)

Butt Knits Traditional Wool Soaker - Test & Review

2009-10-15T13:19:00.001-04:00

Ok, so this is a little late but I am still doing it :)

I met Amber on Ravelry and agreed to test knit one of her soaker patterns. What a lovely pattern it is!

Here are the stats:
Size 3 soaker pattern
Cascade 200 worsted weight yarn
4mm knitting needle (circular)
ribbed waist band with eyelets for a drawstring
ribbed leg bands

My Review: Very easy pattern to follow. No seaming! Yay! I love the different leg options and waist band options. As well, I was impressed with the clear instructions and photos of the trickier techniques. This pattern is well suited for a beginner as well as someone more advanced and into customizing. I will definitely knit more of these!

I made this for my 2 yr old who is very slim and petite. It is very roomy on her but no gaping at any spot. So, this would definitely work for a very chunky baby/toddler. The ribbed crotch is also a great addition as it creates a thicker wool layer in an area that is prone to more wetness. The overall aesthetics are really cute too :) Scarlett was able to wear this for the last half of the day, as I put it on for her nap and she is still in it; perfect :D Thanks Amber!

You can find this pattern on Ravelry and at Amber's Website, Butt Knits. She also has some other really adorable soaker patterns that are unique!! A++++++++++++

Corona

2009-07-21T17:54:00.000-04:00

For India :) She saw this pattern early in the year and requested it. It is called Corona by Canary Knits . I used Debbie Bliss Cashmerino DK in Soft Golden Yellow. This is one of my favorite yarns! It is incredibly soft and can be warm next to the skin.

I started back in February, I think, but when I picked it up again this past June, something in my gut told me that it would be too small. It starts with the bottom ribbing, so it naturally looks a lot smaller making it even harder to tell. Well, I ripped out about 5" of ribbing and started all over, one size up. Also, the yarn I used is a smaller gauge than the one in the pattern, which I had thought I had covered. I am so glad that I did this! The fit is perfect , with a touch of growing room or layering room and I know she will wear it alot. When I am not so large in the belly, I will make one for myself :)

Great pattern, well written, fun to knit! I could not figure out the cable pattern, so I did my own thing. In my defense, I am used to knitting in French and their charts and cable diagrams are very detailed. Also, the names are a little different and I think this may be where I have gotten mixed up....Next time, I will ask for help. Raveled Here!

I have been knitting for the baby too, but I will save those posts until the outfits are complete :) They are so much fun!

Has it really been 5 months !?!

2009-07-06T10:48:00.001-04:00

Wow! I am amazed that I have not blogged for five whole months! Much is new and doe to morning/day/evening/midnight sickness, I lost the urge to knit. Very sad indeed! But, it is back :) I have even bought some new yarn which is inspirational.....I am just running out of time here! So, I will update on what I completed before I found out I was pregnant :)

I knit this for my neighbours daughters 1 year birthday in February. It is 100% cotton from Patons; BumbleBee. It is a now discontinued yarn, but I managed to but a bunch of different colors a few years ago. I used EZ's February Baby Sweater pattern, but did short sleeves and only three buttons. Raveled Here!

Another Baby Surprise Jacket :) These are so much fun to knit, I think I am seriously addicted to them! I knit this for a special friend who was expecting her 7th baby...He came in May! Is is nice and chubby and very yummy :D

The best part was using all different yarns that I had on hand. I used 20 different yarns from Elanns Sample Skeins subscription, plus may other balls of different brands. I also had saved these wooden ducky buttons for the perfect project and was so glad to have them on this sweater. I added a hood and did an asymmetrical front closure with loops for the buttons instead of holes. Raveled here!

Another sweater for Willow! This little girl loves anything that I knit for her and wears her knits ALL the time. She is so appreciative; how can I not knit for her? I found this Phildar pattern about 2004, but at that time, had no little girls to knit it for. I saved it and am glad I waited as I did quite a few mods. What fun would knitting be with out mods, right?

To begin, I used two different types of yarns, both the same weights, but when I started using them, found out that they really weren't the same weights. I used Elanns Peruvian Pure Alpaca Fina (100% Alpaca) and Elanns Peruvian Highland Sport (100% wool). I was going by color and immaturity in the art of knitting :) I ended up doubling the alpaca and this did the track. I was very thankful!

Mods: I knit this in the round, and added steeks at the front and for the armholes, which I later cut open to add the sleeves and the front button bands. I also did not add waist shaping and carried the pattern around the back instead of doing stripes as the pattern called for to match the sleeves. I knit this tube in one piece, right through to the collar! I also added a 3st i-cord around the collar a la EZ :) I used hand carved wooden buttons instead of a zipper. I really like nice buttons :) I also bought an extra color and managed to work it in. All Raveled here :)

Overall, this has been one of my favorite projects. I completed it in February and was the last project before my knitting hiatus. I am currently knitting Corona for India in Debbie Bliss Chashmerino dk. I should be done in a week or so. I have lots of soakers to knit for the new baby, too. I have knit a little merino wool hat and knit for the new baby that needs buttons and then I will have something new to blog about :)

Lots of new knits!

2009-02-18T13:16:00.001-05:00

I am behind on posting here...lots of quick projects have kept me busy, so I will keep this short and sweet :)

A cute spring hat for Scarlett made with Bernats Soy Natural Blends yarn in the Sugar Cane colorway. This was left over from a sweater that I made for Willow a year ago. Pattern is Luvlyknit's Super Easy Cabled Baby Hat.

My February Knitters Almanac Project was a hat and baby cardigan set. I have made this for a friend, if she has a girl :) I used Elanns Superwash Bamboo in the Chocolate Truffle colorway; nice soft yarn that has the great antibacterial qualities of wool.

A really funny hat for Madelyn :D She loves fish (we call her the Fish Whisperer) and so this hat was perfect for her. It is from Knitty and is called Fish Hat; Dead or Alive? I used a whole bunch of may sample skeins from my Elann subscription :)

Lastly, I finished a sweater for myself, for the spring :) Actually, it is supposed to be a really cute little bolero, but those aren't really my thing, so I lengthened it, added waist shaping and lengthened the sleeves. I also did a couple of buttons instead of a ribbon at the neck. I used Uruguay Chunky in a sky blue that is SO incredibly soft. I love this yarn! It is from Little Knits :D The pattern is called Cloud Bolero by Ysolda Teague.

Hats, Mitts and Stockings :)

2009-02-03T10:12:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago, I knit some hats for my friends two sons. Now that she has them, I can post pictures :) They are both the Thorpe pattern, done in London Tweed. They are nice and soft :) Levi is modeling the blue hat.

For myself, I made the Unoriginal hat and Bellas mitts. I had to make some mods to the mitts so that they have flip tops. This makes it so much easier than taking off the whole mitt as they are so long. I added all the details on Ravelry. If you are a knitter reading this and are NOT on Ravelry, please go now and sign up. You will thank me :) Oh, and both hat and mitts are made using Araucania Magallanes in the Andean Sunset colorway :)

Last, but definitely not least, a friend of mine, girlymom, and I are working our way through the Knitters Almanac together. Along the way, we have done some other knit alongs. She is amazing with socks, so we have done a few pairs together. It is not my forte, so I need lots of advice and guidance and she is always there for me :) Last week, I finished my Lakeside socks. Well, they are stockings, really. I used Elanns Sock It To Me in the Rose Wine colorway. They fit amazingly well (I have been schooled well in this department!) and I love them! The lace was fun, but when I had finished, I noticed I had made a few mistakes in the smaller lace sections. I am not ripping it out now, that is for sure and I don't think it is too noticeable. Tomorrow, on the Knotions blog, you will see some pics of my socks :) I feel very honoured. I got this pattern from Knotions, btw...

A new goal of mine is to tag my posts properly and add links to all my patterns and yarns, so bear with me. My time is so limited and I would rather be knitting, but I know that I always find it helpful when searing other peoples blogs :)

Purpurravaara-huppari / Green Gable

2009-01-24T18:26:00.000-05:00

Ok, so before everyone thinks that ALL I do is knit to the neglect of my family, I want to explain a few things. Here is how I manage to get so much knitting done...

~I spend anywhere from 0-4hrs throughout the day knitting. I knit while waiting i n the car for 20 minutes to pick up my son, after the kids are in bed, when the kids sleep for an hour in the afternoon. If my dh is driving, I knit. If I have to wait anywhere, I knit. It really adds up!

~I stay very organized. I have about 4 knitting bags. One or two with small projects like hats, mitts, etc.,. and then a couple for larger projects. I also keep my stash organized and my patterns organized by season and either child/baby or adult.

~I knit fast for a thrower :) I would love to learn to knit continentaly, but for now, until I have the patience, I am a fast English knitter. This means the yarn is in my left hand and I have to throw it around for each stitch.

~I make mods to almost all patterns to make them faster and easier with less finishing work at the end. I love knitting seamlessly! This can save a few hours in itself.

~I very rarely sew in the ends. I either, when working with wool, is spit splice or I knit the ends in. It is working so far!

~This is my main hobby and I only sew occasionally and haven't scrapbooked in years. I really need to catch up!

~I like to complete each project. I just don't have room to store unfinished projects :)

So, those are some of things I try to do to get the most out of my knitting experience :)

Now, for a new hoodie that I just finished. It took me ten days and is seamless, of course :) This was one of the first projects that I really wanted to make that I saw on Ravelry.It is by a Finnish designer and way back in July, the pattern was not available.....until Vogue Fall 2008! I used Elann's Peruvian Highland Chunky wool in the Grape Heather colorway. It is nice and soft, light, but extremely warm. The buttons are hibiscus flowers made out of steel, I think or some type of metal.

I also knit myself a quick hat; only 56 rows with bulky yarn. Easy quick and warm, now I need to make matching mitts :)

Bella's Mitts

2009-01-19T14:15:00.001-05:00

More mitts! I have knit many pairs this year, but none for myself just yet. I need to though and soon! These cute almost-to-the-elbow length mitts were for my buddy Andrea. We came to be great friends about 9 years ago when we were both expecting babies. Since then, we have had two more pregnancies together! Makes it very easy to remember birthdays and ages :)

Anyways, one of the neat things about our friendship is that we share the same birthday, although 6 years apart. For many years, we always went out together to having a mini celebration. This year, on the 18th, she turned 40 :) Her family had a beautiful surprise party for her which we were so happy to attend. I wanted to make something special and it had to be quick as I only found out about the party a few days before hand. So, Bella's Mitts won! I used almost two whole hanks of Araucania Magallanes in the "Baffin Island" colorway and it took me two evenings to knit the mitts. A really warm, quick knit and I highly recommend this easy pattern. I wish I had better pictures but it has been very overcast and snowy :)

January Aran

2009-01-15T09:31:00.000-05:00

First of all...thanks to everyone for their encouraging comments! I am really not the blogging type and wasn't sure if I would be able to do this. I hope I can post more regularly and add more educational information on knitting and yarns in general. For now, I will just do pics and small blurbs :)

So, for my January Knitters Almanac Project, we had to do an aran sweater. I swatched the cable charts that were given, but they did not show up well enough in the yarn I chose, so I browsed through my books and picked out three cables that I really liked. They are separated by purl stitches. I also wanted to learn how to do a steek, so decided to knit my sweater in the round, then cut it up the side to make it into a cardigan. Yes, I CUT MY KNITTING! I also had to take into account the fact that my yarn is not %100 wool, it is %60 silk and %40wool. So, I researched the best way to stitch it before cutting to prevent unravelling. EZ recommends having a glass of wine before you cut your steek to calm the nerves. Well, it was Sunday morning, so not really wine time :) I just cut without agonizing over it....

My vest still needs buttons, which I ordered from Camilla Valley Farms. 8 Fir buttons with button loops will finish this off nicely. Right now, for my photos, I used a wooden double pointed needle to give you the idea of how it will look.

So, I learned quite a bit. How to steek and chart my own cables. I knit the entire garment in the round, right from the bottom to the finishing borders. If you were to find the end, you would be able to unravel the whole thing! I also made up my own pattern as I went as far as sizing and adding a hood. I used up almost all the yarn I had (hence it is only a vest) and have enough left to just do the button holes.

The yarn I used is Katia Scotch Tweed in the Dusty Lilac colorway. I used all 10 balls. It is a chunky weight yarn so I used 4.5mm needles and it knit up quickly, especially because there was no seaming, only a few ends to sew in. I think I will get alot of use out of this vest considering it was -31Celsius this morning!

Seamless Viney Leaf

2009-01-04T10:55:00.000-05:00

The first time I saw this pattern, I knew that I would knit it. But, I waited many months before starting as tons of reverse stocking stitch and then stitching in those sleeves would not be fun. So, I thought alot about what I wanted to do. I started about a month and a half ago and finished a week ago. I love it! I knit the whole thing in the round, then the sleeves and attached at the armpits. I knit both sleeves and body together, decreasing where needed to give the illusion of a set-in sleeve. It worked! No seaming!!! Yay! The pattern is from Phildar #460 and the yarn is Elann's Superwash Bamboo in Claret. The yarn was discounted as the dyes weren't even so it has a hand dyed look to it, which I like. I do wear a tnk top underneath and it is mildly itchy to my arms, but not bad. I do have a fairly high tolerance for wool though. I did lengthen the hem to 5cm instead of 1.5cm. I think I could have gone a bit longer there. All in all, an easy knit, nice viney leaf to add some interest and break up all that purling and a great fit. I am wearing it today as a matter of fact!

I started a new sweater for The Man and it is coming along, but a little slow as I haven't had much knitting time lately. It is a really soft wool from Needful Yarns, London Tweed in the Cherry colorway. I told him this was my last try to knit him such a sweater and if it
was still too itchy then that is it! lol!

I have also knit two more Thorpe hats for my friend Tara's two boys, but will save the pics until she has them :D

Finally, the Sweater!

2008-12-30T11:59:00.000-05:00

Here is the sweater that I made for The Man. Unfortunately, it is too itchy for him as he is ultra sensitive to wool. As I was finishing it up, I wondered if that would be the case, so I put my dad's wool aside and decided that if it was too itchy, my dad would score this sweater and I would knit another for The Man out of the softer wool. So, that is what ended up happening. The sweater is a Phildar pattern from a few years ago in one of their Irlandais Issues, knit up in 100% wool Elle Merino Tweed from Little Knits. I chose the natural oatmeal color as I thought it would suit The Man, but it actually looks better on my dad. My dad loves this sweater and wore it all weekend while he was here. It will keep him nice and toasty :D Oh, I should mention a few neat things about this sweater; I knit this entirely in the round and seamlessly. I did weave some stitches together under the arms where the sleeves joined the body, but that was it! It was a great challenge and I really learned alot. The saddle shoulders were fun too!

Willows matching mittens!

Thorpe

2008-12-20T11:23:00.001-05:00

One thing I love about the Internet are all the free patterns! You can look up just about anything and find a free pattern for it. Willow needed a new hat and mitts so I decided to try out Thorpe. I used Araucania Magallanes (100% wool) doubled, and for the trim, Debbie Bliss Super Chunky Cashmerino, which was left over from another sweater. Not too sure yet what I will do about mitts, but I will work on those today if I get some free time. I really like how this hat turned out and will definitely make more!

I also finished The Man's sweater yesterday and it is still blocking so I will share a photo of the Celtic cable down the front. Tomorrow or the following day, it will be ready for him to try on :)

A Pretty Sweater for Willow :)

2008-12-16T11:04:00.000-05:00

A few years ago, I sold out-of-print magazines on eBay. There were a few issues that I came across that I loved and kept. One of them, Phildar #381, has many gorgeous toddler knits. My favorite sweater would have to wait, as at the time, I didn't have a small enough daughter for it :) Now, I have two little daughters, so I figured it was time to get this done before they are too big! I made some modifications to make it quicker, such as, knitting in the round and then joining the sleeves to the body and working on a circular needle to do the raglan decreases. No seaming! I also added an i-cord bind off the the sleeve hems and the bottom band as stocking stitch left alone is notorious for curling, even after blocking. I used worsted weight instead or dk weight yarn as well. Over all, I am happy with how this turned out, love the colors and the wool (Elann Peruvian Highland Wool). The only dissatisfaction that I have is the once the bottom bands were sewn on, they do not have the same amount of stretch as the part they are sewn to, so they look a bit wonky. We'll see how it wears!

On my needles now, is a Phildar cabled sweater for The Man and the beginnings of a red sweater for my dad, using Elizabeth Zimmermans Wishbone Pattern. I also need to make a hat and mitts for Willow as she has outgrown hers. Hopefully I will have something else to show this week :)

I have been tagged :)

2008-12-12T11:33:00.000-05:00

My buddy, Inspired Mama tagged me, so, here is how it goes :

1. Link to the person who tagged you.
2. Post the rules on your blog.
3. Write six random things about yourself.
4. Tag six people at the end of your post and link to them.
5. Let each person know they've been tagged and leave a comment on their blog.
6. Let the tagger know when your entry is up.

six random things about the witty knitter:

1. I have lived on Grand Cayman, Cayman Island for almost a year
2. My brother and his wife, currently live on the Island of Roatan
3. I love dragonflies :)
4. If I could, I would eat chocolate for breakfast everyday. As it is, I try not to do that too often ;)
5. I try my best to follow God's Commandments.
6. I am married to an East Indian man :D

Tag your it! :

Tara
Chel
India
Asasudra
YarnPiggy
MyMerinoMantra

I look forward to seeing all your answers :D

Mittens!

2008-12-10T22:02:00.000-05:00

India claimed a new yarn in my stash that came from the Three Irish Girls Stash Menagerie club. It is a beautifully soft merino wool, aran weight, in the "Petit Fours" colorways. Delicious colors; makes me hungry! I used the same mitten pattern that my grandmother used to make our mitts from. Actually, it is the original copy! I feel so blessed to have such a treasure :) The mitts were intentionally a little big so that I could felt them slightly, but this yarn is so hardy that hand felting and washing machine felting hardly felted them! They felted slightly, just enough to fit India perfectly. Now to make some for Levi :)

This past weekend, I managed to squeak in a little hat knitting. I really wanted to try color stranding and held one color in each hand. It was slow going at first, but once I got used to it, my tension evened out and it started to come together quickly. The yarn is Patons SWS in Naturally Geranium and Snow White. Nice fairly soft yarn on the hands, but when it touches my forehead, it is itchy. I make sure my hair is between the hat and my head. I don't look good in any hat, but living up here where snow is a part of life, I have to wear one, so might as well have fun doing it! The pattern is "Three Tams", Tam 'C', by Angela Sixian Wu. There are two other tam charts included in this pattern and I may make them later.

Destinee's Long Stockings

2008-12-07T15:35:00.000-05:00

What DO you knit for a girl about to turn 16? No sweater will do and neither will a toque. When asked, she chose stockings; one of my least favorite things to knit! However, being the mom that I am, I abided and am glad to say that I did. She chose the colors well and a simple striped pattern to be used. So, back at the end of November, I set about to knit these babies up! I used a basic toe up pattern and then decided on how many rows fr the stripes. 14 seemed a good enough stripe without making them too "Wicked Witch of the East-ish". We chose http://www.knitpicks.com/Essential+Sock+Yarn_YD5420133.html Knit Picks Essential Sock Yarn for the job and used size 2mm needles to make the socks snug enough to fit a tiny size 5 women's foot. It is a great fit and I know she will wear these often.

Survivor

2008-12-01T13:11:00.000-05:00

A dear friend of ours is battling cancer of the pharynx. His two daughters go to school with two of ours and are all good friends. As a special tribute to his battle, I knit him a little hat with a yellow stripe to signify his survival. He is done with his chemo now and over half way through his radiation.....he has an amazing spirit and a wonderful family that are all helping him win! Hat's off to you, John :D

The pattern I used was Jared Flood's "Turn a Square". Yarn is Needful Yarns "London Tweed" and the yellow stripe was Elann's Peruvian Highland Wool in "Daffodil". The Tweed is super soft and fluffy and I think it would be fine to wear next to his skin. I love the flecks of color in the yarn too!

Foliage

2008-11-22T20:42:00.001-05:00

A hat for my friend Terri :) She means alot to me and since I don't think she knows about my blog, I can post this here. India is my model :) I love this hat and it only took a couple of hours to knit. It is from www.knitty.com They have alot of free patterns!

Many photos ..... Few Words

2008-11-20T09:43:00.002-05:00

I haven't had much time to update my blog with my finished projects. I have just been way too busy! I did manage to get a whole blog post almost complete when my computer shut down. I didn't have the heart to re-write everything so have waited a bit...Here goes; photos on top, info below each one :)

"Little Miss Muffet" by : Zephyr Style
Made for Willow in 100% cotton, this pattern runs small so it will end up for Scarlett sooner rather than later. Very pretty!

Octobers Knitters Almanac Project - Open Collared Pullover for Sage.

100% merino wool, so it is extremely soft and he can wear it next to his very sensitive skin. This was a lot of fun to knit and I learned a lot of new techniques. In the beginning, I didn't even want to knit this pullover, but now i am happy that I did!

Novembers Knitters Almanac Project - Moccasin Socks.

Ironically, I broke my baby toe so had plenty of time to get these socks done! I should have made them tighter but they do fit well. I love the colors too :)

Matching Hat for Sages Tweed Sweater. Nice and soft, ribbed hat with a diamond cable pattern added. He wears this all the time; even to bed!

Leg Warmers and a matching Ballet Wrap for Mady
This is the same type of yarn that I used for Sages pullover so it is nice and soft. I have added a free leg warmer pattern to my Ravelry page and will add the wrap once I have finished writing it up.

A chunky cabled pullover with drop stitch and dropped stitch sleeves. Unfortunately, the sleeves are way too long; still! I have taken them out and adjusted them three times now and will have to do it yet again. The problem? The pattern schematics don't allow for the growth that takes place once you drop the sleeve sts. Doesn't matter too much with the main body as the cables tend to help hold the shape. I love the sweater, love the soft Debbie Bliss Cashmerino yarn, but am not loving the sleeves. Showed it anyways because we all have projects we need to fix :)

Baby Surprise Jacket

2008-10-17T11:00:00.001-04:00

I have a few friends having babies or recently had babies, so I am in a bit of a gift knitting kick. Last night, I put the finishing touches on a Baby Surprise Jacket designed by the late Elizabeth Zimmerman. She was a true knitting engineer and her genius, simple, classic knits live on. I recommend her books for knitters of all levels as she has a clever way of knitting that stretches your abilities and never fails to teach you something new. I am currently working through the Knitters Almanac and have learned so much already!

Now about the yarns I used...I love Araucania yarns for the warm colors and the fact that they are hand dyed. I picked up 1 skein of Pehuen last Spring, not knowing what I would do with it. I just loved the colors and nubbliness! But after, I had some buyers remorse as I wondered what on earth would I make with ONE skein of yarn! I pulled it out this past weekend as I was reorganizing and found some other leftover cottons that matched well. So, to the Pehuen, I added some Elann Sonata in Orchid and Rosetta. I used all of it and had to really fudge things at the end to finish up....I also used a special set of vintage buttons that my mom had bought in the '80's. So, here we have a little 100% cotton sweater for a special babe :D

A sweater for Sage :)

2008-10-16T08:08:00.001-04:00

My goal is to knit each of my children a sweater for this winter. So far, Willow and Scarlett have a few each, Levi and Sage are taken care of too! Just the three older girls and one for The Man left....This is a Phildar pattern that Sage chose and he loves dark colors, so I had some Katia Scotch Tweed in my stash that worked perfectly! It is 65%silk, 25%wool and the rest is some type of man made fibre that I can't recall off the top of my head. It is so nice and soft and he will be able to wear it next to his sensitive skin :) He is such a little model, we told him he should model underwear!

Another project that I completed about a day before I started this blog, was a felted bag for India. It is a pattern called "Two Measures of Joy"...appropriate since it contains the first two bars of "Ode to Joy" ....always one of my favorites! I also lined the bag with fabric chosen by India and the whole thing came together beautifully! She loves it and uses it all the time :)

I have a few other projects on the go that I will finish up and share....these are my knitting projects, but I have completed quite a few sewing projects lately as my goal is o have my sewing desk cleared up before the New Year :)

Destinees First Sweater

2008-10-07T22:07:00.002-04:00

Back in March, I got my two older girls started on a knitting project each. Destinee chose a striped garter stitch wool sweater for Scarlett for this Fall. She gt the front and back done as well as a third of a sleeve and then put it away to work on other things. So, we dug it out and finished it this past weekend. Scarlett wore it today and it is so squishy and cozy! She has room to grow in it and it keeps her warm too :)

Otherwise, not much new to share. Oh, I finished my first sock today which I had put away as it was so fiddly and I wasn't enjoying it. But, it is too big for my little feet! It does fit India, so they will be hers :) I will try another pattern and maybe go down a needle size and shorten the sole on the next pattern. However, I just don't think knitting socks are my thing...

...and my productive week continues...

2008-10-03T16:18:00.001-04:00

Today I finished a hat and pattern to match Levi's sweater, but the hat was too small! That is ok; I have one ball left of the same yarn and this little hat will make a nice gift :)
I have also been working on diapers for Scarlett F.O.R.E.V.E.R! I am finally finishing these up and they are soooo soft and stretchy; I know she will be comfy in them :) I lined them with cotton fleece and the outer layer is cotton jersey. Inside is microfiber to keep her dry. I do not think these will fit her much longer, so while I am on this roll, I will cut out the next size for her and get started on those....

Here's some delicious, squishy goodness for those of you who appreciate that sort of thing :D

...another day....another sweater...

2008-10-02T17:13:00.002-04:00

Ok, I seriously do not knit a sweater a day, but I am finishing up a few projects, including things around the house and my goal has been to completely finish a project per day. So far, I am doing it!

Today, I finished a sweater that I designed for children, but the cable design is not my own. I will, however, add my own design once all my numbers add up correctly and start doing my test knits. This one is for Levi :) He loves it and looks forward to the matching hat and mitts...maybe tomorrow?

I used 6.7skeins of Elanns Peruvian Donegal 100% wool on 4mm needles. It is surprisingly soft!

Cable-Down Raglan

2008-10-01T14:57:00.001-04:00

When I first joined Ravelry back in April (I think), one of the first patterns that caught my eye was Stefanie Japel's Cable-Down Raglan. I put it in my queue and waited until I found the right yarn for the job. During the summer, I ordered some Debbie Bliss cashmerino dk and this was it! I completed blocking my sweater today and I love it! I am so happy :)

I have also been writing another pattern, for little boys in sizes 2-10. I am done with the preliminary pattern and first test sweater, but I need to change to cable chart and use my own. I used one from a magazine I have so that I could focus more on the sizing, increases and decreases and all that other good stuff. It should be ready for sale in a couple of months as I need to test knit a few other sizes...
In more pattern designing news, I have a couple of free saoker patterns that I am in the process of writing as well as a bell bottomed longie pattern for girls :) All these smaller patterns will be available on Ravelry and possibly through here once I figure out how to do that :)