August 7, 2008

Sometimes I wonder if FO posts are obsolete since we've got Ravelry now. I'll continue to do them, though. A post is a post, right? :-)

So without further ado I give you:



Now I'm going to let you in on a little secret.

I'm going to try my hand at yet another sweater.

This one:

Crazy? Right? Here's what I'm thinking: If this one ends up icky (like all the rest of them) at least I had a ton o' fun knitting it! I lerves me some cables, and this has plenty!

Countdown 1,000: 58

Labels: FO's, Knitting, Wild Hairs

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August 1, 2008

The Stray had to be at an all-day practice session for the Million Dollar Drumline (yeah, I'm totally bragging. I'm so blasted proud of the kid!) at 8 AM on Wednesday. He did not want to wake up early and drive the 2 hours to Tuscaloosa. I needed an excuse to go to Serendipity Needleworks again, so I told Offspring we could just go up Tuesday and get a hotel room. Offspring was kind enough to remind me about Thursday Sit n Knit, so the one day trip turned into a three day mini-vacation. I can totally see why Offspring loves T'town. It really is great.

I could try to re-count the adventures of three days in one post, but I won't. I will give you slightly more digestible tid-bits (and only mildly boring.)

Day 1
I finally narrowed it down to 7 projects (actually 3 projects proper...the fixins for 4 more) to bring with me. No, I'm not exaggerating for the sake of entertainment. (When I do that I use the word "squillions" a la Kukka-Maria.) Note: All rav links.

• Anastacia Socks (project proper)
• Sybellia scarf #1 (black Nature Spun Wool; project proper)
• Sybellia scaf #2 (fleshy pink Wool-ease; fixins)
• Baby Genius burp cloth(fixins)
• Garter Stitch Loop-through scarf #1 (Sinfonia solid blue; fixins)
  
• Garter Stitch Loop-through scarf #2 (Sinfonia variegated; fixins)
  
• Knitted Lacy Round Dishcloth (project proper)

On the drive up to Tuscaloosa I decided to work on Sybellia #1. Right past Centerville I discovered that 15 rows down, I had mysteriously started working a k1 p1tbl where I should have been working k2. I sort of flipped. I'm not real good at correcting my knitting mistakes. I truly hear the sound of stitches being ripped out and it's akin to a dentist's drill or fingernails on a chalkboard. I have trouble getting stitches back on needles and I tend to make things worse. In the past I've started over or, if I've invested a lot of time, simply quit. I guess I've "grown" because now I'm less willing to quit.

Anyhoo. I did something crazy. I decided to rip back the one stitch to the row where I made my first mistake and use a crochet hook to make all the purls knits. Please remember:

1. I'm in a moving car.
2. I'm working with black yarn.
3. I've got a 15 minute time limit (I had to help Offspring, my chaufeusse, find the hotel)

It was a tense few minutes, but the procedure was a success. I am really proud of myself (and a small offering was given to the Knitting Fates, less they find me cocky and retaliate.) I am one of those fearful knitters, so I feel like this is a huge step forward in my knitting journey. I'm also really glad Offspring knits now 'cause she was so quiet and supportive. (I just made her sound like a birth partner *sigh*, but ya'll get the picture.)

Once in the hotel that night I got started on the burp cloth. I was exhausted from the delicate surgery earlier in the day and needed a mindless project. The burp cloth is now on The Knit Nite List.

So that's the knitting excitement for Day 1.

Stay tuned for Day 2 in which I ignore projects and pay too much for textbooks!

Countdown 1,000: 65

Labels: Family Fun, Knitting

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July 26, 2008

I am a regular Tuesday Knit Nite attendee.
Sometimes I really hate Knit Nite.
You would think I should look forward to it, but it gets harder and harder every week.

I can never decide what to bring to work on.

It has to be a mindless project. Really mindless. No counting. No patterns. Nothing.

I've decided to make a list of these types of projects and work on them only on Tuesdays during Knit Nite.

The List so far:

1. Grandmother's favorite dishcloth
2. Super-Long Ribbed Scarf
3. Stockinette Stitch socks (but only the cuff/leg or foot portions. Never the heels or toes.)

Aside from this weekly decision, there is another decision I need to make and it's about the blog.

As you can tell, there hasn't been much in the way of hook work. I am now wondering if "Crochet All Day" is still the most appropriate title. I'm thinking of changing the title and web address.

I have three ideas.

A more general title: Madame Fumble Fingers

Two quite knit specific: Twitchy Sticks or Madame Lazy Sticks

As always, your feedback is appreciated.
Countdown 1,000: 69

Labels: Acceptable Knit Nite/Travel patterns, Knitting

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July 24, 2008

I started this in December of 2006 as a present for the Stray. I just finished it this week. According to the pattern, it's supposed to be 48 inches wide by 60 inches tall, but gauge is not my friend and I ended up with about 58" in width. Being lazy, I just decided to knit the length to 48". So now when you use it, the houndstooth pattern is sideways..but it still keeps ya warm.
Yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick
Needles: Size 13 (9 MM)
Pattern: The Men's Club from The Little Box of Knitted Throws.
Countdown 1,000: 71

Labels: FO's, Knitting

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July 21, 2008

Offspring is a fearless knitter. I am not.

I am a dream squasher.

She wanted to attempt a pair of socks. I was afraid to help her. I mean, yes, I can knit a basic sock. But can I help someone else knit a sock? Doing and teaching are two different things. And I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to convert the pattern she chose to Magic Loop (which is what she wanted to do.)

After I shot down the sock idea, she decided she wanted to make something for the dorm. A rug? Handtowels? Dishcloths? We pored over books and scoured Ravelry. Finally she decided on Absorba, the Great BathMat (rav link) from Mason Dixon Knitting. Having never done Log Cabin Knitting, I figured I would give it a try, too. Offspring was thrilled with the idea of doing the same project together. (In fact, she's nagging me right now to finish this and come knit.) We trooped off AC Moore.

There we discovered that they did not carry 16 oz cones of cotton. The closest we came was 14 oz mondo balls in natural and some browney ombres. We each chose a natural and focused on the little 2.5 oz balls. According to our calculations, we were going to need 6.4 balls of each color. The store had exactly 5 balls of any color that appealed to us and exactly a squillion balls of stuff we didn't want to knit with. I did some quick calculations (not really, I was flying by the seat of my pants) and told Offspring we'd just deal with what we had, cast on a few less than the 17 the pattern calls for and see what happens with 12.5 oz of each color. She sort of panicked at that. She's a little more particular and anal than I. I slapped her around a bit (not really) and she calmed down (only minimally.) It's at this point that I remember the book is in the car and I have no idea what size needles to use. I insist it's size 10 1/2. We grab needles and get out of there ('cause going back to the car is a ridiculous idea and darn it I was ready to start the project.)

In the car I discover we needed size 15 needles. Getting out of the car and going into the store to return the wrong needles is another crazy stupid thing to do, so I just tell Offspring that we'll just make the mat with the 10 1/2s. Besides, I tell her, maybe it will help out with the yarn shortage (and darn it I was ready to start the project.) As long as two feet fit on the thing we'll be fine, right?

Once back home we jump right in. We cast on 17 and begin. About halfway through the center square I remember that we were going to cast on fewer stitches, but I shrug and move on ('cause, darn it, I was ready to move on with the project.) As long as two feet fit on the thing, right?

I get to the first "turn" before Offspring (who now seems to think we are racing and is sort of freaking because I'm knitting faster than she is.) I assure her this is a "good thing". I can help when she gets to the turn. She also starts spazzing 'cause mine is bigger. I tell her I'm the looser knitter and to remain calm. As long as she can fit two feet on the thing, we're good. Right?

The pattern we are using is on page 70 something of the book and basic log cabin instructions are on page 68. I dutifully follow the instructions on page 68 through 2 turns before I turn back to the Absorba instructions and discover that I was supposed to work 6 garter ridges (not the 9 for the log cabin tutorial.) I sort of struggle about telling Offspring this, but opt for full disclosure. She looks at me and says "So what you are telling me is we are doing our own thing and not really following the pattern at all." She took the news rather well. (She's a rule follower, you see.)

After a few turns, we both stop to admire our work:



Looks like two feet will fit.

Countdown 1,000: 72

Labels: Family Fun, Knitting, WIPs

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July 19, 2008

I am sad to report that I was unable to submit a sock to the second Summer of Socks bi-weekly raffle (rav link.) For two weeks I tried to complete a sock, but I ended up frogging every attempt. You've seen the updates.

Well, finally, I think I am meeting with some success and I owe it all to Trekking XXL color #326 and the Anastasia Sock pattern. It probably doesn't hurt that Hubby is gone for the week-end and Offspring and the Stray are in Birmingham. No interruptions usually makes for good knitting. This progress pic was taken yesterday. Today I turned the heel and I'm knitting the leg.



And as always, I have some fiddly bits:

• I sold my soul to plurk.
• Offspring is nearly done with her charity baby hat.
• Heath Ledger is a terribly disturbing joker.
• It occurred to me as I labeled this post that I'm inconsistent.
  

Countdown 1,000: 73

Labels: Knitting, Socks, WIPs

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July 16, 2008

I finished ugly sock Monday and immediately cast on the second one. Tuesday afternoon I decided to block the first sock. I know, sock blocking isn't necessary, but I think it evens up my knitting. (And maybe part of me hoped some great miracle would occur and the sock would turn a beautiful solid shade of garnet.)

I ordered some Soak a while back (from the Loopy Ewe, duh.) and decided to give it a try. It did warn that "Some color may bleed into the water-don't worry, this won't harm your garment or yarn."

Did they mean this?:





To say this "bled a little" is an understatement. My first thought was of my feet and their tendency to sweat, no matter what the season (yeah, TMI). My feet would have looked nasty dirty if I wore those socks. Add to that the fact that I was really miserable knitting such ugliness. I just gave up and frogged them.

Now I'm working on a pair that makes me much happier. Trekking XXL #326 is my new favorite color. I guess I might as well tell you it's another spiral pattern. So sue me.

Fiddly bits:

• Offspring has learned to purl. She spent 5 minutes this morning analyzing her feelings on both stitches and gave me an explanation, which I would share if I weren't so lazy. In brief: the pros and cons of both cancel each other out in the enjoyment department. But she's still knitting, so I guess it's all good.
  
• In fact, her stash is up to 4 balls. Two she took from my stash and I bought two balls for her today. (I'm enabling I guess.)
• Offspring is also on ravelry now: classicsj
• And she has a blog. Can I talk ya'll into dropping by and saying hi?
  

Countdown 1,000: 75

Labels: Knitting, Year of the Sock

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July 14, 2008

I had a workshop to go to today and was able to finish this. I was a little early and finished before it even started. Good thing the speaker was fabulous.

Pattern:Vintage Lace
I think I've written before about how much I love this pattern. Simple and easily memorized, but produces something lovely. I knew when I started that I would not have a super long scarf. I'm very pleased. I really wish I had a cameo or pretty brooch to wear with this (To hell with looking like a granny!)

Yarn: Lion Brand Sportweight
I purchased this a long time ago. Do they even make this stuff anymore? I loved the look of this, but I have some KnitPicks Merino Bare (fingering weight) that I think will look nice, too.

Needles: Bamboo (who knows what brand) US size 6 (4.25MM)

Commentary:
Did I mention how much I enjoyed knitting this? I took a break from it for a while, but figured I needed a little "pick-me-up" since the socks are being so cantankerous. (To be fair, it's the yarn. The sock feels great, but the pooling is driving me crazy)

Countdown 1,000: 76

Labels: FO's, Knitting, Life The Universe and Everything

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July 12, 2008

First, begin with a yarn that has a lot of promise. Knit Picks Essentials in the Meadow Multi colorway should do nicely.

Pattern is important. Check out what others are doing on the Summer of Socks board on Ravelry. Be sure to choose one that most people are warning has a little bit of bias which can be annoying. Invest in knitting it until you get to the heel of the first sock. At this point it's important to note that the yarn looks fine, but really the biasing is more than you can stand...even if it doesn't show when you wear it.

Frog the entire first attempt and go for a simple 2x2 rib sock. Be sure to underestimate the power of 2x2 pull. You want the sock to be narrow enough to resemble a snake. As you increase for the gusset and work the heel, the yarn will begin to change. Swirling is to be expected.

Try on the sock. Go ahead and admit now that it is too narrow. Do not invest any more time. Frog the second attempt. The yarn is almost ratty enough.

Begin 3rd attempt. Cast on and frog false starts until yarn is good and ratty (almost to the point of being felted.) On the final attempt, resurrect a variation of a pattern you've already done twice (and weren't so crazy about the second time.) It works well for the yarn. Work three inches, then stir in the new yarn patterning. When you get to the gusset increases, add the third yarn pattern. A marked difference among the three patterns must be achieved, otherwise the frustration will not be complete.

When the heel is finished and you've arrived at the cuff, you may slowly introduce the fourth and (hopefully) final pattern.

The final magnificent step is to throw in the towel and just knit the stupid things. Even it they are ugly, you can count them as the spoils of war. If you finish the pair, you have the satisfaction of knowing that they did NOT drive you to the loony bin and your confidence was NOT completely destroyed!

Countdown 1,000: 78

Labels: Knitting, Socks, Year of the Sock

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July 11, 2008

Offspring had an interview for an on campus job Thursday. Seeing as there is a yarn store in Tuscaloosa, I was more than willing to be her traveling companion. Offspring hates going with me to look at yarn, but she really didn't want to go by herself, so she was willing to go to with me.

Serendipity Needleworks was near the campus (I took many pics, but none of the store...Je suis une idiote.). I think I cried a little when I walked in. All that yarn that I could actually fondle. All neatly arranged by color, weight, brand. Soothing music played softly in the background. I had arrived with my pattern in tow so I could get help picking yarn. I regret that I did not get the name of the lady who helped me, but she was wonderfully patient with a yarn ignoramus like me. I finally picked some Rowan Kidsilk Spray.


Do I need to tell you how badly this picture represents the real thing?

As I checked out, one of the other customers pointed out some Lorna's Laces sock yarn. It was custom dyed for the store:

While we chatted about Montgomery and its lack of LYS, Serendipity's Sit n' Knit and classes offered (that many students attend), Offspring patiently waited.
As we walked back to the car, Offspring said "I really liked that store. Will you need to go back before we leave?"
I thought for a minute and said, "Yes, I probably should have gone ahead and gotten needles for the project."
"Ok, she said. We'll stop by before we head home."

At this point, I'm getting a little excited. Offspring is volunteering to go to a knit store with me? She has spent a lifetime fighting the craft bug. About three years ago I was really hopeful when she made a couple of crochet scarves, but it never "took." I held my tongue for the rest of the day. We had lunch at Tut's Pizza (and didn't have pizza) and met the Stray. He was there for freshman orientation and the Percussion mini-band camp (He wants to be on the drumline of the Million Dollar Band.)


As we drove back to Serendipity, Offspring drops a bomb.

"I want to learn to knit."

I really had to keep myself from dancing a jig (as much as one can in the passenger seat of a KIA Sorento.)

The owner knew just the thing: Lorna's Laces Shepherd worsted (Crimson Pride colorway, of course) and Addi Bamboo straights (size 8 ??MM.) Only the best, right? Learning to knit is tough enough without adding acrylic and aluminum to the mix. (And I mean this in no snobby way, since the majority of my stash is acrylic.) She was so eager to learn that she didn't even want to pull over and wait out a rain storm.


When we got home, I cast on some stitches for her, did the first row and got her started on the knit stitch...with a little help from Debbie Stoller:

"In the front door, put on your scarf, then take it outside...before the cat barfs."

We seem to be creating our own terminology, too. The garter stitch bump is now referred to as the doorstep and the loose first stitch of each row is now the slutty neighbor. Yes, we sound weird as we sit at the dining room table discussing knitting.

Of course, I'm her mom, but I think she's a natural.



Last night's progress (my stubby fingers):


She is very hard on herself (I have no idea where she gets it.) I keep trying to tell her she will improve with practice. She has gotten over one big hurdle: managing two needles and some yarn.

And she manages them rather gracefully if I do say so myself. She has this lovely little "pluck" that she does before pulling the loop (scarf) through. I even caught her knitting and talking on the phone (phone propped between head and shoulder) simultaneously today.

I am very hopeful this will stick. There are some positive signs:

• She has headed for the knitting each time she has returned home from an errand.
• She told the Stray she was learning.
• Today she bemoaned the fact that she wanted to knit, but had to go to work.
• She is sitting next to me right now...KNITTING!
  

Countdown 1,000: 79

Labels: Family Fun, Knitting

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June 30, 2008

This is unbelievable. Spain wins and I finish another pair of socks (at 11:45 PM.)

Behold:


OOOOH


AAAAH

The lighting is really bad since my house is a dungeon and I'm forced to use the flash. I just didn't want to wait until tomorrow and daylight to take the pictures.

I blocked one to see if there was a difference in feel and fit. I think there is, but it may just be psychological. Bat enjoyed the blocking process at least:


Countdown 1,000: 89

Labels: FO's, Knitting, Summer of Socks 2008, Year of the Sock

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June 29, 2008

The weekend isn't officially over, but I don't plan on doing anything more, so I feel safe in giving you a wrap up.

The Family and I went bowling on Saturday! I really stink! Final standings were:

1st Place: Hub-a-Dub
2nd Place: The Stray
3rd Place: Offspring
Distant 4th Place: Yours truly

I begged off the last 8 frames. My fingers were hurting and I let everyone know that I was not sacrificing my knitting for bowling. The Stray took over my turns and did very well (but still left me in Distant 4th so that should let you know how badly I bowl.)

My knitting karma has not been so hot the last 36 hours. As I've mentioned, I had to frog the first attempt of my Garter Rib socks. I did finish the second attempt around 6:30 last night, but I bound off too tightly. I had to frog and fix the cuff, and I'm still not 100% happy, but I'll make do with a 90% satisfaction rating.



Offspring wanted to go to Panera to work on her cross stitch so I agreed. (I was in the mood for a cherry pastry.) I took my Gift of Friendship (Rav link) scarf with me. Since the recipient-to-be is allergic to cats, I do not work on this at home. I keep it tucked away and work on it in cat-free zones (I realize there will still be some cat hair...but not as much as if I were sitting on the couch and Arnold came up and sat on the yarn.)

I've been doing quite well on GOF, but last night I missed a #$%& yarn over and had to go back and fix it. The powers that be must be rewarding me for knitting for someone else because I was able to frog and fix WITHOUT A LIFELINE. Pure miracle.

And that's about it for the weekend. Really exciting stuff, huh? The European Cup Soccer final is today. I'm hoping that between that and the rain, I can finish (or come close to finishing) the second sock of pair 2.

Countdown 1,000: 91

Labels: Family Fun, Knitting, Summer of Socks 2008, Year of the Sock

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June 25, 2008

I finally finished my rpm's, but I've decided "Kermit" is a better name for them.




I'm really pleased with this pair. I still have a little perfecting to do when it comes to heels (and that pesky gap at the gusset,) but I'm getting there.

Pattern: rpm
Yarn: Panda Cotton by Crystal Palace Yarns (59% Bamboo, 25% Cotton, 16% Elastic Nylon)
Color: Fern
Amount: 1 ball per sock, with plenty to spare from each ball
Needles: 40" Addis 1 1/5 (I think 2.25 MM, but don't quote me)

Did I mention how excited I am? I may never get the hang of sweaters, but I am lovin' the sock knitting!
Countdown 1,000: 96

Labels: FO's, Knitting, Socks, Year of the Sock

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June 18, 2008

Andrea is the proud new owner of the SOG Giveaways!

I know it's hard to understand: just givin' away stuff. I've got 20 years of stuff lying around and I just find it easier to give it away. No strings, I pinkie swear.

In other news...
I really appreciate all the nice things y'all had to say about Cherry. I promise it is a trick of the camera, but the sweater did not look good on me.



See the guy on the right? Now compare it the original, un-edited "me in the sweater pic":


I will concede that the hairdo may have more to do with the similarities than the sweater. (And I need a gardener.)

Yes, I know. Too hard on myself yada yada yada. (I'm pretty sure "don't whine so much" is becoming a Don't on the Rules of Good Blogging list. I'll have to keep this in mind for future posts.)

I do appreciate how much positive reinforcement you've given me over the years. Please insert sappy, mushy thoughts here. (Any fans of Flipping Out around? I could invite you to a mandatory We Appreciate You Cocktail Party...)
Countdown 1,000: 100

Labels: FO's, Knitting, Summer of Givin'

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June 15, 2008

I cast off Cherry:



I am not willing to call this a failure since Offspring went crazy for it when she saw me in it. I'm going to frog this one and make hers with the yarn. After all, it is Crimson Tide red and I won't be using the sweater. I'm thinking I'll use a size 8 needle for hers so I'll have to pull the calculator out to do some math (again.)

I'm discovering that much of my sweater disappointment comes not from my knitting, but from my choice of pattern. I do not pick patterns/shapes that are flattering on me. For instance, I have pretty broad shoulders. Cap sleeves tend accentuate my linebacker silhouette (at, least the seem to when I look in the mirror.) Both Cherry and Juliet* have cappish sleeves. V-neck sweaters and cardigans tend to look better on me. Most sweaters that I wear tend to be sleeveless or long sleeved. (Is anyone thinking V-neck vest?)

Also, most of my weight is carried in my belly. The last thing I need is to use bulky yarn. I am promising myself right now that I will only use worsted and lighter from now on. (Knit So Fine might be purchased somewhere in the future.) Although I am self-conscious about my tummy, I liked the fitted look of Cherry. The picture doesn't show it well, but Cherry carved out a little waist-line curvature that normally isn't there. One of the things I never liked about my Mondo Cable project was the cable running right over my belly. I'm wondering if I should have used a plain stockinette stitch instead.

The more sweaters I make the more I learn. One day, Sara, you will be successful.

As for the other week-end activities, Hubster was vile and requested that I clean the craft room as my Father's Day gift to him.



Guess who I am...
I have to own up to it; the room really had gotten out of hand.

Just don't tell Hubster I said that.

I forgot to take a "before" shot, but I did remember the "after" shots:


I think that the fact that it still looks messy gives you an idea of how big the pile of crap craft supplies problem had become.

The only thing that made the whole clean-up bearable was the fact that he requested Offspring clean her room, too. *snicker*

*I refuse to be photographed in that one
Countdown 1,000: 105

Labels: Family Fun, FO's, Knitting

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June 14, 2008

Here in Alabama there are 5 WWKIP events. Two in Tuscaloosa, and one each in Huntsville, Jacksonville and Troy. When last I checked on events, only the two in Tuscaloosa were listed. Alas, I have discovered too late the one in Troy.

But it doesn't really matter. Hubby said with the price of gas, there was no reason to drive 45 minutes (the distance to Troy...the closest.) He said he would buy me a lawn chair and set me up in the front lawn. He also reminded me to wave to anyone who drove by. He's a laugh riot (but he's adorable and loves to clean the kitchen...so I'll keep him.) Actually, I would take him up on it...if it weren't hotter than...well, you get the picture.

My KIP will be done at the 11:45 showing of The Hulk. Anyone care to join me? Auditorium 4. I'll be there!

Countdown 1,000: 107

Labels: Knitting

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Say what you want, but reading The Opinionated Knitter counts toward my total.

Elizbeth Zimmermann was an amazing woman. It's times like this that I wish I was better at expressing myself. If you read no other part of the book, read the final pages. Quotes from knitters far more eloquent than I express it better than I ever could.

Anytime I work on an EZ pattern, I'm in awe. I keep thinking "It's just garter stitch, but it's not boring!"

EZ is even one of my post categories!

Countdown 1,000: 108

Labels: EZ, Knitting

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June 13, 2008

Let's start here:


This is the beginning of take two of the Gift of Friendship (pdf)(have you noticed that many of my projects are "take twos"?) Be sure to click on it so you can see it all big-like.

I swear there is a line about half-way up. I'm pretty sure it's due to a tension change. All I can do is hope a dunk and a block will help.
Countdown 1,000: 111

Labels: Knitting, WIPs

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June 5, 2008

It appears that Swapna is the fastest clicker in the erm...east. She's snapped up the yarn and knitting book.

Netter is the fatest clicker stateside. She's now the proud owner of the crochet grab bag.

I sat down last night and finally finished a pair of socks I started in April:

Pattern: Yarn Over Cable from Sensational Knitted Socks by Charlene Schurch
Yarn: Panda Cotton by Crystal Palace Yarn
Needles: Size 1.5 (2.5 mm) 40" Addi's (Magic Loop is my favorite!)
Comments: This is the softest yarn! At first I found it to be a bit slippery and splitty, but I got used to it. These socks will be worn in public!

So far in this Year of the Sock I am averaging 1 pair of socks per month. Not too shabby.

But you know that feeling you get when you finish a book? You know, like you can't quite decide what to read next? I kind of feel that way about the next pair. I can't decide if I want to do RPM or Tangled Vines. All I know for sure is that I want to use this yarn:

Panda Cotton in Fern (hence the backdrop)

Your thoughts?
Countdown 1,000: 122

Labels: FO's, Knitting, Socks, Year of the Sock

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June 4, 2008

I recently finished 3 kippot (head coverings worn by Jewish men...although, many women in my synagogue also wear them during services)

href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/77764546@N00/2552435394/" title="Tocker Kippah by topperarnold, on Flickr">
From right to left (since one reads Hebrew that way *grin*)
Pattern: Basic Knit Kippah in Reverse Stockinette Stitch(pdf file) By Jennifer Tocker
Yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease-Sportweight. I wish I could give a solid yardage amount. It doesn't seem like very much of the ball was used.
Needles: 16" circular size 1 (2.25 mm) Bates
Comments: of the three, this one fits best (truly one size for all as it fits me, hubby and the Stray.) And isn't hubby the most patient man on earth?

Pattern: Keppie(pdf file) By Pamela Grossman
Yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease-Worsted weight. Again, I have no idea the official yardage. Less than half a ball?
Needles: Addi 40" circs size 3 (3.25 mm)
Comments: I've written about this one before. Me loves it, but I will use size 4 or 5 next time I make it for myself.

Pattern: Sockpixie's Kippah
Yarn: Leftover Sockotta from The Second Pair.
Needles: 16" size 1 (2.25 mm) Bates
Comments: My least favorite. The yarn makes for a floppy kippah.

Countdown 1,000: 124

Labels: FO's, Knitting

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May 31, 2008

Stupid pattern repeats that end with a yarn over. These are purposely designed for me to forget only to discover it two rows later.
Countdown 1,000: 136
(yeah, I'm sort of rushing the countdown by not combining topics...call it post inflation)

Labels: Bitchin' and Moanin', Knitting

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May 25, 2008

I have completed another pair of socks. I'm calling them the Knockabout Socks because I don't plan to wear them outside of the house. That makes four out of five pairs that will never see the light of day.*



I probably don't need to tell you that I'm not super keen on this pair. Which is usually the case with this brand of yarn. I made them a little too long and loose. I also tried a garter stitch short row heel:



I'm a little concerned that I've done all this sock knitting and I don't see any improvement.

Countdown 1,000: 139

*The Learning Pair, The Third Pair, the Fourth Pair, and these.

Labels: Knitting, Socks

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May 18, 2008

I finished the Cherry Twist yesterday, but when I tried it on I discovered that the hips were too large. Since I am determined to have sweater success, I frogged back to the 4th hip increase and started straight stockinette stitch. Except for the hips, I was happy as I could be with everything else, so this sweater might even see the light of day during the one week it is cold this winter (South Central Alabama is not known for it's frigid winter temps.) I am thinking that bulky yarn is not the best choice for my figure, though. From now on, it will be worsted or lighter.
Countdown 1000: 142

Labels: Knitting

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May 16, 2008

Countdown to 1000: 145

Last night I was looking for mindless knitting. It was the season finale of Supernatural and I didn't want to miss anything because of a complicated pattern. So I chose Baby Bib O' Love(Ravelry link) from Mason Dixon Knitting (link to book info...their site is here.)



Details
Yarn: Sugar and Cream- 1 ball
Color: Playtime
Needles: Bates Size 5 (3.75 MM)
Commentary: For some reason I got so tired of turning my work and decided to figure out how to do the garter stitch back and forth without turning. I'm happy to report that I was successful. It doesn't save me any time and until I get really good at it, it is actually slower...but I hate turning that much. I'm also happy to report that there was some knitting without looking, too! Overall, a fun project. Look out, Dishcloths! There's some new therapy in town!

Labels: FO's, Knitting

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Countdown 1000: 146

I'm knitting away in bed and realize:

There are no scissors nearby. I stock the whole house and forget my favorite AM knitting spot. ('Cause yeah, I wake up, get coffee and start knitting.)

Labels: Knitting, stupid me

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Countdown to 1,000: 147

Found out about this from Casey and I'm sure this is old news, but thought I would share anyway. I have not seen it in any local stores, but subscribed anyway (which of course defeated the purpose of letting the Interweave Knits sub expire...)

Labels: Knitting

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May 12, 2008

...off my needles.




Details
Pattern: Petal Dishcloth
Needles: Size 5 (3.75 MM)
Yarn: Lily Sugar n' Cream Twists (lavenderyish color)
Commentary: If you look closely, you will notice far more than the 12 points the pattern calls for. I've made two of these and I've had to make more "petals" each time to close the gap. This pattern is going on my "Pattern Favorites of 2008." I love it!

Labels: Dishcloth Therapy, Knitting

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May 6, 2008

It was called Cherry Twist and it was not good:



I must note it is shitty knitting. While photo quality is lacking, it is a mere .5% of the problems with this project.


I do go on record as saying that the pattern is not the problem. It's executed well: I love the shaping and the seamlessness.

Despite all the sweaters I've made, I am only just now learning about my preferences. I am paying closer attention to what pleases me. I have cast on this sweater again with adjustments noted below. Please note I have not frogged the original. I was simply lucky enough to have extra yarn.

• I do not like the fabric created with the bulky yarn and size 11 needles. It was just a bit sloppy looking to me. I've cast on with size 10 1/2 and made all the mathematical adjustments (which means I'm casting on 124...not in the instructions.) Simply put, I am making the pattern fit the gauge that I liked the best.
  
• I do not like twisted rib. I am now using plain k1 p1 rib.
• As you can see from the pic, the sweater is a bit short which puts the lower ribbing at an unflattering location. I'm going to lengthen the stockinette section and do a shorter ribbing section.

At this time I am also reconsidering a re-knit of the Mondo Cable and the Juliet. I've been conversing to myself about what I liked and did not like about both of the projects and I think I can find solutions to the problems I had. I think I could easily make MC and in the round project. The flare out from the boobs on Juliet (which really made me look ridiculous) is also easy to change. I feel almost like fix it extraordinarie: Andrea.

Now, if my re-knits are successful I will have another problem: I will have learned that I can only successfully complete a sweater if I knit it twice. That could get expensive (really, do I have to frog?) and time-consuming.

Labels: Bitchin' and Moanin', Knitting

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May 3, 2008

Well, it's the week-end (yay!) and the weather is terrible (boo!) and I have to chaperone a prom tonight (boo!). But it's all good 'cause I can do this:




My first center-pull ball I would myself, no swift or nuttin'!


For most people this is small 'taters, but I am quite pleased with myself.

This ball was wound in preparation for my next try at a sweater. The last two times I didn't name the sweater and I finished them...but they looked horrible. So now I'll try naming it and see what happens.

And it shall be called "The Cherry Twist" and it shall be good. May the force be with me.

Labels: Knitting

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May 1, 2008

More Dishcloth Goodness
Originally uploaded by topperarnold

I'm still going to post my projects here even though Ravelry is becoming a replacement for many blogs. I'm emotionally attached to my blog :-)

So, here is another dishcloth therapy project.
Pattern: Petal Dishcloth
Yarn: Some Sugar n' Cream dug out of the stash that for some reason had no label
Needles: Size 7 (4.5 MM) Takumi bamboo
Comentary: There's a messed up petal, but if you will click over to the pattern you'll discover a wonky petal there, too. Finally! I make something that looks like the picture! But seriously, I loved the pattern. It was quick and easy to memorize. AND I discovered another purpose for knitting! I took this project with me to a teacher get together. I love the folks I work with, but I have a terrible case of foot in mouth disease, but if I'm knitting I KEEP MY MOUTH SHUT! How cool is that?

Labels: Dishcloth Therapy, FO's, Knitting

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April 27, 2008

P4250001
Originally uploaded by topperarnold

Reeally I should have worked on the baby blanket, but I've had my eye on this project for a while. Plus I'm trying to pare down my queue on Ravelry.

Stats
Pattern: Magic Slippers
Yarn: Bernat Hot Sox (It was early in my stash building career. I was naive)
Needles: 2.75 Susan Bates (they have a weird bend to them where the cable joins the needle that is really annoying.)
Commentary: Truly the best bootie pattern out there. I will be making more of these. I loved the fact that there is no seaming.

Labels: FO's, Knitting

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April 3, 2008

I got home before the sun went down today so I snapped a picture of the fifth pair. Please excuse the trash can back ground.




These, too are destined to be just house socks. Out of the 5 pair I've made, 3 are not for use in public...but one day...

The Details:
Yarn: Lion Brand Sportweight Wool Ease (I've lost the label, so I don't know the "official" color name)
Needles: My size 1 1/2 addi's (duh. It's all I've been using, lately) 2.5 MM for my international readers
Pattern: I made it up
The Commentary:
I think maybe this pair is just a bit too snug. I didn't realize how much all the cables will draw in. I found great instructions for an easy short row heel with video on the internet. It worked like a charm! You can find them here. You'll never wrap again.
There's still room for improvement, but I'm feeling better and more confident about my sock knitting.

Update: the Sixth and Seventh pairs





I did decide to frog and start the Sock of the Month Club sock over again. This time I'm tweaking the numbers so it will be a little smaller (I could tell the other one was going to be bigger than I like) and so I could use the magic loop method (on my brand new KnitPicks circs...LOVE!) I just wasn't feeling the DPN's. I guess this means I'm not a real knitter according to the rules of the knitting universe, but I'm enjoying the project more now. I also figured out why the back cables were wonky. There are two charts that are followed for the back cables. I had followed chart B correctly, but skipped 3 rows of the cable pattern for chart A. That's why the cable twists weren't making a nice alternating pattern. I'm not going to make the same mistake again:




There are 48 rows of the pattern, I made a copy and cut it up, ten rows at a time and prepared a page for each ten row section (8 rows for the last page.) This, coupled with Andrea's suggestion to use post it notes to cover anything you aren't working on will insure my success! The pattern will not win!

Of couse, I still only work on these when the rest of the house is asleep. I spend the rest of the time on these:

Labels: Knitting, Socks, Year of the Sock

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April 1, 2008

Please pardon the rambling nature of this post. Believe it or not, I usually try to write a somewhat logical, decent-flow sort of post that a person can get the gist of within a 30 second glance, but that ain't gonna happen today.

I finished the fourth pair, but can't get a decent picture. Will try it in more natural lighting.

Started on the fifth pair Sunday night. It's from my sock of the month club from TheKnitter.com. Actually I'm in the Bi-monthly sock of the month club. I get a pattern and yarn to complete said pattern every other month. Anyway, this is the pattern from January....February?




I'm sure for an experienced knitter this is pure child's play. But I must be completely alone to work on this. This means that I can't even work on it when there is even a chance that someone might call, the cats may need my attention or the Hubster may want to talk. At my house, that means I have to wait until 9 or 10 pm and then only do 2 or 3 rows. So progress is minimal:



I'm toying with the idea of frogging these and starting over. I feel like the cables look wonky on the back (the pic with the marker). I swear I'm following the chart religiously! I'm about 60% against frogging. It really was a bear to get this much done and I can't face starting over. Madame Lazy Sticks thinks she will just do better next time.

I also decided I needed to start a sixth pair since I won't be making tons of progress with the fifth pair. That way I'll have something to work on when Hubster insists we "spend time together." Really! How am I supposed to get any knitting done?

Of course, I have no pictures of the sixth pair, either. It's on my To Do list.

And I think the Knitting Fates are trying to tell me that I should invest in good yarn. Trekking is a brand I've heard folks rave about but the price has always scared me.

Lo and behold look what arrived last week from the sock of the month lady (Judy at the above website):

Labels: Knitting, Socks, Year of the Sock

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March 30, 2008

I took a break from my fourth pair to do a little dishcloth therapy.




I found this pattern on Mrs. Fife's project page on Ravelry. Of course, her knitting quality is much better. I don't know why my edges look crappy. I especially like the way the varieagated/ombre (there's a technical difference, but I can't remember what it is) worked out. No matter how hard I try, it usually doesn't look good when I use anything but solid.

Once these were done I went back to the socks and finished them today. I'll just cast them off and take pics later.

Labels: Dishcloth Therapy, Knitting