Craftygal's Knitting Place

Baby Sweater

2009-08-15T12:45:00.002-04:00

It's been so long but I am back to knitting and I love it. I did stay in touch with the knitting world. I got so busy with my volunteer radio work and working and just didn't take time for myself. I let my weight creep up a little and that's not good either. So I am back to doing some things for myself - knitting is one of them.

Two things happened that kept me from knitting: 1) I developed familial tremors and 2) the room became our junk room. If I didn't know what to do with it right now, just put it in there.

Although I have the right medication for the tremors. I realize that I will never do cross stitch or needlepoint again. So, I am working on donating/giving to friends those supplies. Yes I could sell on eBay but my heart won't let me. I know lots of people who love to do stitching with no money. I know that I want to knit and crochet. My goal is to move my supplies downstairs. I need the space for a bed for when my granddaughter comes over.

In that effort, I got the miscellaneous junk put away, sorted the books and have the cross stitch supplies ready to donate. [Niecy Nash would be proud] Unfortunately, I got sick then John too before I could finish. But I have not given up. Just delayed. So work continues.

While in Frankenmuth, MI I found the cutest baby sweater with a hood worked from the neck down in the yarn store. I bought the yarn and pattern. The problem is that the pattern is actually not a complete pattern but one they use to teach so I had to type it up as a full pattern. Finally got that done this week.

Now that September is just around the corner, we have work, the house, the holidays, the radio club, my 40th wedding anniversary trip to Hawaii, and time for myself... I know I can do this... time to myself! One stitch at a time.

Beaumont Hospital Knit shop

2006-11-15T22:24:00.000-05:00

Today I went for my annual mammogram. I know that last month was Breast Cancer month but I couldn't get an appointment. Better late then never right? I went to William Beaumont Royal Oak Michigan and they have the coolest knitting shop right there in the hospital. They sell yarn and have knitters there to help you while they are open. The prices are a little cheaper than the regulars stores since they are considered a non-profit business. The next round of classes start in January and the lady said they are thinking of doing something for charity. I put my name down on the mailing list. I hope they have a time when I can go.

In the meantime, I await the results from the mammogram. I did have a dizzy spell during the test. You know how they say "hold your breath"... well, I must have held it too long. Anyway they checked me out and I was ok. I also did something very important. I had the hospital put down my allergy to Norvasc on my chart. That way when I go to the ER they will not give me Norvasc. I also went online to MedicAlert and updated my bracelet. (gee maybe I can get my DH to get me one with Diamonds for Chanukah) ;-)

happy knitting

Oh Heat what a joy

2006-10-24T12:36:00.000-04:00

What a surprise to come home at midnight last night to find no heat! The house was down to 66 and getting colder by the minute. No wonder the cats were meowing like crazy Monday morning. Now how come they couldn't just talk English and say "Hey MOM, its friggin' COLD IN HERE". I could have called the furnace man on Monday.

So what do you do when you have no heat? Crawl into bed under the electric blanket and quilts and knit of course! That's what I did while waiting for the furnace man this morning. I finished the ribbing on the helmet liner and was able to do about 2 inches on the hat.

The furnace man was really nice. He said the igniter was cracked. He showed it to me. And all it looks like is a section where someone may have scratched off some coating. That and the labor was the new filter was $214. Well worth it since it gets mighty cold in Michigan. Guess I'm good for another year. Now I can sit and knit back with the living and not hidden under piles of blankets. Maybe Mom's right being down there in Florida where it's warm... awww but then I'd miss all those pretty fall colors. It sure does look mighty pretty outside today.

Knitting SFS yarn

2006-10-21T09:15:00.000-04:00

I'm so happy that I finally got some yarn to start knitting a pair of socks for soldiers socks. I joined the group a while back and just couldn't find any black yarn locally. The group has a list of black superwash yarn that the military will accept. As a military Mom I understand how strict the military is. They want plain black in those boots and that is it! But as a mom of an Army Medic I will tell you that they also must wear a pair of white socks under those black socks. So yes we need white socks too. So my next pair will be white. Too many times my son would tell me about the soldier who didn't wear his second pair and had blisters. My sons are now Veterans but we still have other sons and daughters out there fighting for us.

Between knitting the helmet liner (about half done) and this pair of socks I am in knitting heaven.

Knitting and watching DVRs

2006-09-29T13:45:00.000-04:00

I have decided one of the biggest drawbacks of watching TV shows on the DVR's (or TIVO) is that you spend way too much time speeding past the commercials to knit. By the time I put the knitting down and pay attention to where to get back to the show so I don't miss anything I have lost my place in my knitting and don't get any enjoyment out of the knitting. I am either going to have to not knit while watching the DVR or do it while I have someone else to do the DVR thing... hmm maybe I can get my DH to do that for me. After all I do not intend to stop knitting just to watch TV.

OTN - I have 3" on the helmet liner and hope to start on the short rows tomorrow. That will be exciting since I have not done them for a while and have to teach myself how to do them again. Also I will use short row again when I do short row socks.

Knitting on black yarn

2006-09-20T13:06:00.000-04:00

I dug into my knitting bag to start on one of my UFOs. The project that I decided to knit was the helmet liner with Knit Picks Wool of the Andes "Coal" (100% Peruvian wool) and it is really "black".

I figured since it only has about an inch of ribbing on it then it was like starting from the beginning. What could go wrong from there, right? Well, right off the bat I realized that with my new eyes I would need more light.

If I were home I would have turned on the Ott light. But I was on my break at work. So I had to improvise. I moved the desk lamp closer to my hands. Well, that's ok for a few minutes but that's no fix. What if I want to sit somewhere else. I don't want to take my portable Ott lamp to work as I use it in my craft room so I can tell the difference between all the colors of yarn. So my next quest is to find a good lamp at work to sit near while on break knitting.

In the meantime, I think I better pick one of the projects that uses lighter yarn for knitting at work. I think I'll finish up my opal socks.

Fall Cleaning

2006-09-18T10:52:00.000-04:00

Some people do spring cleaning... but no I did fall cleaning. That is I did it to just one room. The most important room I have! My craft room!! tore up all my craft supplies and separated out the knitting, sewing and crocheting.

Now I have it all cleaned up and know what I have. I am ready to go. Do you think I can quit my job and knit all day? Do you of any jobs that will pay me to just knit and watch TV or play? hmm ... me neither... so I guess I'll go to work. {sigh} Guess my socks and helmet liners will have to wait . . .

Knitting again after Cataract Surgery

2006-08-31T12:16:00.000-04:00

After months of demanding that something was terribly wrong with me, the doctors finally probed and prodded and figured out what all of my health problems were. The problem with my leg was the fall in February. I ended up with a strain of the ligament on the outside of my thigh between my new hip and my knee. That is why it hurt so much and I limped. The surgeon said that I also hurt the ligament on the inside groin area so that is why that is sore. But the good news is the hip is still good. So in essence what he said was ... "Take 2 Tylenol and DON'T call in the morning." That lasted for several months and now the cane is put away in the closet where it belongs.

The irregular heartbeat not being able to catch my breath was actually congestive heart failure brought on by the new blood pressure medication that they gave me called Norvasc. Now that was a REAL scare! I kept calling doctors telling them that my heartbeats felt funny and I should know since my husband has atrial fibulation and I know what his feels like. Ladies and Gentleman! Let me tell you something. If you ever feel weird and don't know what it is... Stand your ground! Take yourself to the doctor or ER until they fix it. I must have been to the ER 3 times and the doctor 4 times. I even had a stress test and it didn't show it. The Echo didn't show anything weird either. I had them put me on a 24-hour monitor and that is how they caught it. Then they got all the readings they needed. So now I am off that medication and doing GREAT! And the upshot is that I now know that I have a wonderfully healthy heart. Thank you G- d!!

And more good news!! This summer I had cataract surgery on both my eyes and the doctor said that my eyes are very healthy. It feels so good to see again. The doctor said that at my age (56) and even with astigmatism my corrected vision is about 20/30. I still wear progressive glasses and use over the counter eye drops called Soothe to help keep the lipid layer that protects the cornea moist but all and all my eyes are pretty good.

I'm finally going to start to knitting again. The wonderful thing is that today I went into my craft room for the first time. I want to make a scarf for work. The draft in my office is terrible. I wear a sweater at work but It seems like even with a sweater that my neck is always so cold. I have tons of yarn left over and figure why not use it to make a scarf/wrap just for my neck. I don't know what pattern yet. If it were crocheted I would want to make it in the lovely shell pattern I love so much. Thing is that I need it soon. This is a necessity item. I can make more scarves later for just making scarves - and I like that idea - after all winter is coming and the homeless are getting cold.

So my plans for knitting (crafts) are going to be:
knit a scarf
knit Socks For Soldiers (black)
knit helmet liner for the troops
knit socks for myself
knit baby blankets for hospital (I like the lion brand pattern
cool ties for the troops (not knitted but still crafts) sewing
teddy bears (AT&T Pioneers project) sewing

if I get any of this done this winter I'll be happy ...

I have to go over my WIP and see if I have any UFOs... Gee could I be the only knitter without any UFO's? ;-)

Vision Problems

2006-04-29T20:51:00.000-04:00

Well, I am admitting to myself that I will not be doing any knitting for a while until I get my eyes operated on. I just had the worst experience in my life. I have known for sure since last November that I must get my cataracts removed in both eyes. The doctor said he would do the surgery in July this year. But! here I am and everything keeps getting blurrier. I have some moments of clear vision but most of the times things "bloom". That is when whatever I see has like a halo around it. It is worst when it is sunshining. I feel like I have a veil or vaseline over my eyes. I am calling the doctor Monday to try to get in to see him. I hope to get it done right away. So no more knitting until then. I will be back as I cannot stand being just a lump. Thank G-d that I have my dear sweet husband and son and my job and friends and mother. and of course, my online friends thank you all.

Solving the Mystery

2006-04-08T09:23:00.000-04:00

I've been having leg weakness since I fell on Feb 3rd and landed on my back. It makes it hard for me to be my same ole cheerful self. Problem was that I was having trouble walking and even ended up in the hospital with medicine changes. This medicine change affected me in ways I didn't know would happen. Boy did it ever. I can't knit now with my hands shaking and my skin feeling like I have my hands in electric sockets. Shoot its not just my hands shaking. Sometimes, I will sit and feel my whole body shaking. The doctor said that will go away after I get used to this new medication. I wonder how long that will take. It's been 2 months already. The good news is that my mind is more clear than it's been in 20 years.

The doctor started the tests to see what's going on with my leg (yes the one with the new hip). Yesterday was the first test. that EMG was an unplesant test. At lest the MRI won't hurt. I'll just close my eyes. The orthopedic surgeon said it wasn't my hip but that he would see me Monday. You bet he will considering he should have seen me first. Then on Wednesday the Neurologist will tell me the results of the tests. In the meantime, I hope that it will work out cuz I'm starting to think that I want to start knitting again. I keep going back to what I like is the socks and blanks and dish clothes (boy I need new ones too) little things. Nothing fancy.

Craftygal's Knitting Place

2006-03-02T12:13:00.000-05:00

Sorry it's been so long since I've posted. I've been in hospital and getting med changes and knitting is really hard for me to do. Going to work every day is a challenge enough. I hope to get back into knitting very soon.

Another Project? You're Kidding!

2006-01-09T10:46:00.000-05:00

I can't believe that I'm considering knitting another project. I have the other mitten OTNs and I'm still knitting helmet liners for the troops. I have at least 3-4 projects all set to go in bags waiting. So what do I do?

I took my favorite socks from my drawer and am trying to duplicate them. The basic pattern is
• K1, P1 rib for 1/2".
• K4, P2 ribbing of 8" circumference for 5-5 1/2". This stretches to a 14" calf. (Believe me - it stretches that much!)
• Now do a short row heel (have to learn that technique). Anyone have a website with instructions?
• For the foot, knit the rib pattern on top and stockinette on the bottom half. Knit the foot for 5 1/2".
• Finish with the the toe decreases for 1 1/2". Finish with Kitchner stitch.
Well, that's the basics. and I'll figure out the specifics as I go and post it on here.
I took my favorite socks from my drawer and am trying to duplicate them. The basic pattern is
a K1, P1 rib for 1/2". Then do a k4, P2 ribbing of 8" circumference for 5-5 1/2". This will stretch for my 14" calf (believe me it stretches that much!) Now do a short row heel (have to learn that technique). Anyone have a website with instructions? For the foot, knit the rib pattern on top and stockinette on the bottom half. Knit the foot for 5 1/2". Finish with the the toe decreases for 1 1/2". Finish with Kitchner stitch. Well, that's the basics. and I'll figure out the specifics as I go and post it on here.

One Done and One to Go!

2006-01-01T12:28:00.000-05:00

I finished one mitten. WHEW!! Now if I only had time to knit the second one. Ever been so busy that when you get home from work you feel that you just have to vegetate? Well, that's been me lately. But I did finish the one mitten.

Designing the pattern is a lot of work. If I were doing mindless knitting then it would really help me with the stress at work. I think my mind is just on overflow trying to learn and document the new procedures at work that my mind wants to just shut down when I get home. I sure could use a little less stress so I can relax and knit when I get home.

To design the pattern, I combined the barn mitten pattern with the convertible mitten and came up with a pattern for worsted weight yarn. I don't know how useful convertible mittens will be but I am going to finish the pair. Thing is that it's mighty cold outside. The idea of having even the tips of my fingers bare makes the rest of me shiver. Maybe what I really need to make is gloves. I can easily convert the "convertible" part of the pattern into just a glove pattern. Now that woule be a good idea.

But that's a different project. On to the second mitten.

Mitten Pattern design

2005-12-05T10:29:00.000-05:00

I wanted a pair myself and found the pattern online for Convertible Mittens on http://www.p2designs.com/images/patterns/MittConv.html. However this pattern is for a large mitten and I wear a S/M. Also I find it a little hard for a first mitten project. I found another pattern for plain mittens at www.hjsstudio.com What I liked is that it had a generic pattern in there that would require me to figure out my own pattern and yet gave me instructions for making a mitten.

The 2 patterns are different in that the Convertible Mittens does not set up the thumb. You simply put in a waste yarn and later work on the thumb. The Easy Mitten sets up the thumb using increases. I will see which one I like.

What I'm doing is working the Easy Mitten and yet adding the "glove" features at the appropriate rows. I will end up with a Convertible Mitten with adaptions for setting up the thumb. I am also following the yarn council guidelines as I write the pattern. (more on that later)

Hopefully this glitten will be a warm fit my 8" hand. Once done I'll do a test and let you know the results.

Virtual Red Kettle!

2005-12-01T10:56:00.000-05:00

Please share the love and visit the Salvation Army Virtual Red Kettle! bell ringers raising money this holiday season.

2005-11-18T09:06:00.000-05:00

I’m still making helmet liners and neck warmers.

OTN -- black neck warmer for my coworker. I’m almost done and then I can start another helmet liner.

I'm Waiting to start another helmet liner for my friend’s son. He just finished AIT and going to Turkey. I’m waiting on a friend of mine to tell me what color he needs. Some units are real particular whereas some say any of the usual colors is ok. The usual colors are tan, khaki, olive, dark brown, black. When I find out the color I’ll just squeeze in his helmet liner in between my other projects.

Thing is that I only have 2 Addi #6. I can’t use the Denise needles since they are a little bigger than the Addi’s. I may end up buying another #6 16” circular so I can have a couple of these things OTN at the same time. That way if I get another special order, I can start it right away.

I was just thinking how much I hate doing the ribbing… ;-) The pattern says to knit 5” of 2x2 ribbing before starting the hat portion in stockinette. Funny that I get so excited just making a hat.

A Prayer for Veterans Day

2005-11-12T06:25:00.000-05:00

Our God and God of our ancestors: We ask Your blessings for our
country--for its government, for its leaders and advisors, and for all those who have fought and continue to fight to defend our freedoms and our lives. Teach them insights from Your Torah, that they may administer their work fairly, that peace and security, happiness and prosperity, justice and freedom may forever abide in our midst.

May this land, under Your providence, be an influence for good
throughout the world, uniting all people in peace and freedom--helping them to fulfill the vision of Your prophet: "Nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they experience war anymore."
Amen.

--adapted from Siddur Sim Shalom for Shabbat and Festivals

Onward and Upward

2005-11-06T23:29:00.000-05:00

Blind knitting

I’ve been practicing knitting and not looking. I found that I can do it pretty well with the knit stitch in the round. I can feel the stitches. The purl is a different story. I guess I need a little more practice on that one. I want to learn so I can knit and talk to my friends. I hate going to knitting meet up and can't knit because I'm listening. I never get anything done. The other reason is that while I'm watching soaps, etc. I want to be able to knit and actually look at the TV. Talk about doing something useful. We'll see how it goes in time.

OTN
Black helmet liner
Black neck warmer for coworker

It's fun to get something done. I love the charity project I found. Knitting helmet liners for the troops is my type of project. They don’t take a lot of time and look nice when done. I’ll mail this package tomorrow and start the next one. They are requesting black for the Marines who lost their barricks. It’s hard to knit but that is the color they need. My Ott light is getting a lot of use.

I also made a neck warmer to help on the cold day. Of course, now my coworker wants one so of course, I'll make one for her. I asked John DH and he said he doesn't want one...his loss.

Those are just ribbing and stockinette in the round. No brainers so to speak. Now for something to test the brain:

Now I'm going to try making blue mittens to go with my neck warmer and coat. I usually wear just plain old black thermal gloves and wonder if the double mittens would be good. You know the kind with the fingerless gloves. I just can't figure out how the bear finger tips is any good when it's so darn cold outside. OHH I just thought of something--counting all the lottery winners at the party store when you turn in the lotto tickets :-)

Irish Hiking scarf and hat pictures

2005-10-31T14:02:00.000-05:00

Finally have a picture of my scarf and hat that I made for my DH. He loves the hat since he can pull it down over his ears and close to his neck. He has the scarf tucked in, but he said that he loves how it will shield his face from the wind and snow while running the snowblower. BRRR :-(

Short Row Neck Warmer

2005-10-28T16:54:00.002-04:00

I finished my neck warmer and even wore it for several nights now. It's so cold downtown Detroit with the wind coming right off the Detroit River and running between the buildings. I actually have several requests from my coworkers. I'll post a picture soon.

I followed the instructions for the XL Adult. It's tight enough for me yet not too tight. Here is the pattern:

WOOL NECK WARMER WITH NOSE COVER

If you make a neck warmer with this pattern, please consider making a helmet liner. The pattern is available at http://www.citizensam.org/html/helmetliners.html The address to mail them to is at the bottom.

Materials:

1 skein WOTA 100% wool Approx. 175 yards (from KnitPicks Yarn - http://www.knitpicks.com/ ) Colors allowed by the military are black, charcoal, brown, tan, olive drab.
Size 6 - 16" circular needle, or size to get gauge
Two stitch marker (2 different ones or color suggested)
Yarn needle, measuring tape & scissors

Gauge: 4.5 st/in. in stockinette.

Sizes: Regular Adult (XL Adult).

Neck:
Cast on 84 (92) stitches loosely. Place marker.
Join in round and knit 2x2 rib for 5 inches.

Short Row Sequence for Nose:
Do not remove marker. Knit back and forth on 52 (56) stitches, keeping in K2, P2 rib, as follows:
short row 1: Work across 51 (55) stitches, loosely wrap and turn.
short row 2: Work 50 (54) stitches, loosely wrap and turn.
short row 3: Work 48 (52) stitches, loosely W&T.
short row 4: Work 46 (50) stitches, loosely W&T.
short row 5: Work 44 (48) stitches, loosely W&T.
short row 6: Work 42 (46) stitches, loosely W&T.
short row 7: Work 40 (44) stitches, loosely W&T.
short row 8: Work 38 (42) stitches, loosely W&T.
short row 9: Work 36 (40) stitches, loosely W&T.
short row 10: Work 34 (38) stitches, loosely W&T.
short row 11: Work 32 (36) stitches, loosely W&T.
short row 12: Work 30 (34) stitches, loosely W&T.
Place marker for new start of round.

LAST short row:
K2, P2 all the way around to the new round marker, picking up the wraps as you come to them, and knitting or purling them together with the wrapped st.

Ribbing:
Work in 2x2 ribbing (K2, P2) for 1/2 to 1 inch. You will be picking up the rest of the wraps, working them together with the wrapped stitches as you come to them.
Bind off loosely in K2, P2 ribbing and weave in tail.

Resulting neck warmer will lay nicely along the top of the shoulders and can be tucked under the coat collar. You can push it down to expose the mouth and/ or nose.

This pattern is derived from the Helmet Liner pattern. Thanks to Bonnie Evans for allowing me to post this pattern. Please consider knitting a helmet liner for a soldier. The pattern is available at http://www.citizensam.org/html/helmetliners.html Helmet liner pattern originally designed by Bonnie Long. Revised by Bonnie Evans 10/16/05.

update 2009 - The helmet liner project has been turned over to Citizen Sam. Please note this new address for shipment of helmet liners:

Citizen SAM

P O Box 10565

Peoria, Illinois

Back to Knitting

2005-10-16T12:16:00.000-04:00

Sorry that I've been away for a while. The High Holy Days were great! And there's more fall holidays to enjoy. Sukkot and Simchat Torah are so much fun and Halloween and yum yum Thanksgiving to top it off. My birthday is November 26th so I even get presents for Thanksgiving. ;-)

Yesterday I finally had a chance to continue knitting the short row helmet liner and see that the hat part will be done soon. Then on to the face ribbing and it will be done.

I got some Chambray blue #23769 yarn from Knit Picks that really does match my winter coat. I can't wait to start the ribbing, but alas the #8 needles are in use with the short row helmet liner. When that is done I'll switch to #6 for the face ribbing. Then I can start the ribbing for my new winter hat.

Yes I could buy yet another Addi US 8 16" circular... that would make 3 of them that I have. But I really think I need to finish knitting some of these liners so I can send them out.

Linda is asking for black liners to send to the Marines. They can only wear black. I have one knitted already and will put that in the mail all by itself. I bought 8 skeins of black and that will knit up about 5 black liners. Then I got 3 skeins each of brown and Army green. So I have enough wool to knit 5 black, 2 brown, and 2 Fern (Army green).

The approved list of Knit Picks yarn is:
Knit Picks’ Wool of the Andes $1.79 for 50g ball (need 1 1/2)

Colors that I've used:
Coal 23420
Fern 23433
Tan 23773
Chocolate 23774

Other approved colors:
Snickerdoodle 23429
Chestnut 23424
Mist 23438
Evergreen 23427
Maple Syrup 23426

short rows on the helmet

2005-10-09T00:05:00.000-04:00

I can't believe that I made the short row part of the revised helmet liner pattern. I'm testing the upsized revised (with short rows for face) pattern and I did it right !! I've only done short rows once on toe-up socks and at that time I didn't know what the heck I was doing. Now I can't wait to get them done. This is a great KAL !!

Knitting at Niagra Falls ?

2005-10-02T09:11:00.000-04:00

Well, not exactly. I didn't take any knitting on the days we went siteseeing. I wanted to give all of my attention to G-d's beautiful gift. But, I did knit while traveling to Niagra Falls, Canada. I took my knitting with me and was lucky enough to knit in the car for the 4 hour trip there and home. I even knitting during the evening and got quite a bit of the ribbing done on each one.

I am knitting 2 helmet liners. Chocolate yarn knitted with the original pattern. The tan one is using the new short row pattern that allows for snugging up to the nose and will produce a liner that is 2" larger in circumference then the original pattern. I am the tester for this pattern and will share the results with everyone.

WOW I can't believe how much it has commercialized in the past 10 years or so. But, you know, the Falls are still fantastic. I still get dizzy when I watch the water go over the edge.

The little hotel (Cascade Inn) we stay at is still there. It's now owned by the Holiday Inn next door. The same folks that own the Skylon Tower. We got a great package for 2 nights with breakfast both days, dinner at the Skylon and dinner at Coco's steak house next door to the Hotel. I was sad to see the huge park across the street was gone and the casino in it's place. It was nice to stand on the balcony and see the American Falls.

I'm so glad I went. I think we'll go back next summer and finish seeing everything we didn't to see - the Botanical Gardens, the Floral Clock, eat at the restaurant in the end of the River, and of course, spending more time just me and my dear hubby. Even though it was cut short, I sure do recommend a get away with you and your someone special.

Denise needles vs. Addi's

2005-09-26T18:45:00.000-04:00

Well, I thought I had it all figured out. I wanted to start another helmet liner even though I have one OTN already. I am still using the US #6 Addi's for the chocolate brown ribbing. I only have about an inch done so far. But, I wanted to start the larger pattern in the tan. I will still use the US #6 and #8 needles.

I thought I could use my new Denise needles but have discovered something. I don't think the Denise needles do well in the 16" cable. I put together the US #6 needles with the 9" cable to make the 16" needle. Turns out the needle parts are too long. I ended up spreading the stitches out too far apart while doing them in the circular knitting.

The end result is that I have to buy another US #6 (16") needle or wait until I get the chocolate done. I have decided to get another needle. Just so I don't miss out on any knitting tonight, I'll continue working on the ribbing on the chocolate helmet liner.

helmet liners everywhere

2005-09-21T17:47:00.000-04:00

It's wonderful that so many people are knitting helmet liners. I finished the black liner. It is really tight on me so I asked if there was a way to upsize the pattern. Bonnie came up with a really neat idea. I'm testing the pattern on the tan yarn I got at knit picks. I also started the chocolate one with the short row pattern. Some knitters think the short row is good for when they pull it up over their nose. Bonnie said this larger one will increase the liner by 2". I'll let everyone know the results.

Also lots of knitters are taking the pattern to their LYS so others can make them. That's a great idea! Please spread the word. Some LYS are giving a discount on the yarn when you come in with a completed liner.

I'm trying to find a small tote that I can take my liner and yarn to the radio club meeting. No need to carry the whole megilla. hmm better go in the craft room and see what I can find.

Ships Project

2005-09-18T09:19:00.000-04:00

I'm just a knitting away on my helmet liner for the Army and Marines. I have only the 1" face ribbing and then I'm done. I'm going to start the chocolate one right way while the needles are hot.

While thinking about what to say in the note to include, I was reminising about my 2 boys (oops, sorry guys)... men who both served our country so valiantly. No they didn't go to war! They were both in warm places and didn't need the liners. And they are both home safe. Thank you G-d for that!

If all I can do now is knit liners for these children, then I am grateful for the opportunity.

Here is some information for helping our Sailors:

Provides a touch of home to those deployed in military operations aboard. We try to warm the body as well as the heart and soul. [They] Need: Handknitted or machine-knitted slippers, socks, hats and ear warmers, especially for men. College and professional team colors or solid colors are great choices, or black or camouflage colors for the ground forces. Items may be made using any yarn, including that spun by the knitter/crocheter, but items needing to be hand-washed should be tagged as such so the recipients can provide proper care.

Ellen Harpin, Project Founder
PO Box 564
Goldenrod, FL 32733-0564

E-mail: ellens12@yahoo.com or theshipsproject@yahoo.com
Websites: www.coingo.net/theshipsproject [patterns]
www.theshipsproject.com [photos & information]

September afternoon at Mugg's

2005-09-15T23:12:00.000-04:00

Went to Mugg's today for the knit group. One of the new ladies was DJ,an old friend that I haven't seen for years and was delighted to see her. I didn't even know she knit. Nice seeing you again DJ.

Adrienne came back. Great seeing you again. She shared her afghan she's making for an old (grown up) student. It's a crochet pattern that calls for bobbles. She doesn't crochet so she's following the chart and doing purls instead. It's quite cute.

Merrilee finished her granddaughter's dress and is it ever cute. She even had a picture of her wearing it. Guess Merrilee borrowed it just so she could show us. She also brought the sweater she made from the top down for her hubby. (I bought that pattern last month to make a sweater for John.) Thanks for bringing them. Ahh (sigh) one day I advance to sweaters.

I brought my Irish Walking hat and scarf that I gave to John. He really likes it and in fact he already put it in the closet ready for the cold weather. That is if it ever gets here. This is sure a weird fall in Michigan. But then I'm not complaining. It will be cold soon enough I guess.

Several of the others are making baby things. I would rather make some charity things right now. My current project is a black Helmet Liner. I've been knitting up a storm and am about 3/4 done with it. I have about 10 rows on the hat part and then the face ribbing. I'm learning a lot with this pattern. Bev taught me the cable cast on. Thanks Bev. I had watched the internet videos but in person is so much better. I'm going to use that for the other helmet liners I make. I bought Knit Picks Wool of the Andes yarn in beige and chocolate for the other 2.

Knitters help Katrina Relief Fund

2005-09-06T10:46:00.000-04:00

We all want to help the victims of Katrina. Knitters everywhere are donating what they can. The Red Cross is asking for MONEY. Why money? Because that allows them to be a portable relief fund. They can move their operation where the need is. They can give the supplies and assistance where they are needed.

FEMA cannot do everything. The federal government is NOT the grand daddy of all. They are there for direction. They do not directly give assistance. They do the planning. We are there to take care of ourselves and our neighbors.

I may live in Michigan, but the victims of Katrina are our neighbors - our brothers and sisters, black or white, Christian or Jew or Muslim. We are all one. Let us join together as one and take care of each other.

Please give whatever you can to the Red Cross for Katrina's victims. Yes there are other groups and please help them out. But if you have anything left over, please give to the Red Cross.

Here is a knitting blog talking about what many of us knitters are doing. Let us all join as one and do what we do best for Katrina's victims - SHARE AND SHOW LOVE.

G-d Bless us all and especially those who need us the most.

Care Bears for Katrina

2005-09-02T10:27:00.000-04:00

Michigan Telephone Pioneers group is making Bears to send to Katrina. I have enough fabric to make 2 or 3 of them. I am holding off on my knitting until I get them done.

picking new projects

2005-08-27T20:17:00.000-04:00

Wow, what a day it's been! I have 4 days off and just getting started with all the neat things I want to do. Yesterday was devoted to getting a colonoscopy... what a pain in the ... oh pardon me [G]

I woke up early today knowing that I had to keep moving around and get rid of the gas the doctor put in me. Well, do you think that 6:30 AM was early enough? For an afternoon shift gal that is way too early for me. But tell my body that!

So what do people do at that time of day? Well, I didn't have to ask. I just started my regular routine - just 3 hours early, that's all. So, with coffee in hand, I started making a list of what all I wanted to do today. 1st thing laundry... scratch that. I only have 1 load left and its in the drier. Can do that on Sunday. Hmm, then there IS cleaning out the cat litter box... No. that would mean going down the basement. Noone in their right mind does that before 11, right? So, that leaves ... KNITTING!! Wahoo!! Now you're talkin'

Now I can write down a wish list of all the projects I want to do. Goal being to wittle away at that huge stash in my knitting room. Alas, it is all acryllic and the Troop Helmet Liners must be 100% wool. So now what can I make?

5 hours later, I have a plan. Print out all the patterns, put each one with the appropriate yarn and needles, upload the patterns to my Palm T5, figure out what supplies I need to buy to do them.

Ready to Knit
Knitfest2005 Teddy Bear - Lavendar Baby soft
Charity Stocking Cap - red and white Red Heart with #8 (16" circular)
Candle Flame Shawl (errata for row 19 & 20) - natural Berella worsted from stash
Irish Hiking Convertible Mittens - Red Heart from stash

Waiting for Yarn
Troop Helmet Liners - ordered yarn from Knit Picks
Clapotis Scarf - ~~Lorna's Laces Lion and Lamb~~ $31 is too much

Supplies I Need
Tons of Stitch Markers
Additional points for my new Denise needles - 2(16"), 40" & 52" cords & needles (#6 & #8).

Charity Stocking Cap Pattern

2005-08-27T17:16:00.000-04:00

A lady in my neighorhood is collecting hand knitted hats and sweaters. She gave me a sample hat and the pattern. She also gave me the sweater pattern I'll talk about later. Here is the Stocking cap pattern that she gave me:

Stocking Cap for Charity

Knitted on straight needles, but can be knitted in round.
Skill level: Beginner
Size: One size fits most

Materials:

Knitting needles #7 US (4.50 mm) or #8 (5.00 mm) (no smaller)
OR same size needle with 16" cable circular and DPN

1 skein Worsted Weight acrylic yarn (MC)

Small amount of Worsted Weight acrylic yarn (CC)

1 large eyed darning needle

Gauge:
11 sts and 12 rows = 4” (10 cm) in K1, P1 Rib unstretched.
BE SURE TO CHECK YOUR GAUGE.

CAP
Cast on 80 (100) sts. with MC
All rows: *k2, p2, rep. from * across row
row 1 MC
row 2 CC
row 3 CC
row 4 MC
row 5 MC
row 6 CC
row 7 CC
continue in MC til measures 8 or 10 ½ inches

Shape Crown with MC:
Row 1 *k2tog, p2, rep. from * across row
Row 2 *k2, p1, rep. from * across row
Row 3 *k1, p2tog, rep. from * across row
Row 4 *k1, p1, rep. from * across row
Row 5 repeat row 4
Row 6 repeat row 4
Row 7 *p2tog, k2tog, rep. from * across row
Row 8 *k1, p1, k1*, rep. from * to * across row
Row 9 *p1, k1, p1*, rep. from * to * across row
Row 10 repeat row 8
Row 11 *k1, k2tog, k1*, rep. from * to * across row

Finishing
Bind off in pattern. Leave about 20 inches for darning needle With Break off yarn leaving an 18” end. Draw through rem sts and fasten securely. Sew center back seam, reversing seam at cuff.

(When decreasing, the number number of stitches on needle is approximate. Depending on how many stitches you first cast on, the decreasing rows will start with either a P or K stitch.)

Abbreviations:
k: knit
p: purl
K2tog: knit next 2 stitches together
P2tog: purl next 2 stitches together
rep repeat (s) (ing)

M1, K2togBL, SKP & Knitty.com patterns

2005-08-21T10:25:00.000-04:00

I was having trouble doing the M1 and K2togBL stitches. First I had trouble taking the cast on of 6 and putting it on the 3 DPN's. After 3 tries I got that part right. Then I realized that I was doing the M1 wrong and had to rip it out. While I had it at the beginning, I checked my reference books. There are several M1 directions. I reread the directions that say, "Make 1 st by winding the yarn round the needle once". To me that sounds like a YO. But if she wanted a YO, she would have said so, right... Thing is that the picture shows holes. I guess I'll have to make it and see what I end up with.

I found a wonderful site that explains the 2 stitches in pictures and words. Knitty.com archives has all their patterns and towards the bottom is the techniques article "Increases and Decreases".

Now I can start the doily with confidence. I know how to make both the increase and decrease in the pattern.

As I reread the pattern for the 3rd time, I realized that I wasn't sure how to do the Sl 1, K1, PSSO stitch. I found great instructions (with pictures) at Knitting.About.com --

Sl 1, K1, PSSO (sometimes abbreviated as SKP) is a left slanting decrease.

Slip one stitch knitwise.
Knit the next stitch.
Insert left needle into front of slipped stitch on right needle.
Pass the slipped stitch over the knit stitch and off the right needle.

Mugg's Meet Up

2005-08-18T22:28:00.000-04:00

Had a great time at the monthly knit meetup in Commerce Township today. While there Merrilee was knitting a top down V-neck sweater for her husband. That is exactly what I need for John. It was an Ann Norling #60 sweater pattern.

Then stopped by Knitter's Kove before going home. It was wonderful. Debbie and her daughter were there. Seems there was a "sit and knit" type of class going on. Tarah was great. She found the sweater pattern I wanted. That is going to be great for John. Then she showed me around the yarns to help me with the other projects I want to do Â the lacy doily, mittens and just getting to know the yarns. I bought the socka yarn for the lacy doily.

While looking for Jewish patterns, I ran into a lace doily and WOW it's just what I wanted. Being 15" around, it's the perfect size for a challah cover. If I get the hang of it, I'll make another one for the Pomegranate Guild for their display. I never knit in the round before where you only start with only 6 stitches. Also her M1 was just doing a twisted loop. I had heard that a M1 was picking up the bar before the next stitch. Of course, I got to round 12 before I found out I was doing a YO and not a M1. So there was a hole and had to rip it out for the 4th timeÂ But I will get this done.

In the meantime, I'm still knitting away on the scarf. I measured it and I have 36" done. I measured one that I like and it's 58". So I'll have plenty of knitting to do when I want mindless knitting. By the time I get the scarf done, I'll have yarn for the sweater. Boy, I sure do love knitting!

Irish Hiking Scarf Hat & Convertible Mittens

2005-08-15T09:37:00.000-04:00

I am having so much fun with this pattern. I only had 2 skeins of yarn so I stopped the scarf and working on the hat. I didn't want to run out of yarn in the middle of the hat. Turns out that the hat doesn't take a whole skein. I'll have plenty of yarn. I finished the hat and now to finish the scarf.

For the hat I used #US 8 and 9 needles (instead of 7 & 8's) to give me a larger size without increasing the stitch count. It's big but then I can pull it down to cover my neck and forhead and alot of my face.

I am going to adapt the convertible mitten pattern to make them for the Irish Hiking Scarf pattern. The author is updating the pattern right now. The pattern calls for DK yarn. She said that I can 2 strands knitted together of sock yarn to get the same gauge as the DK. Now that's an idea. Will have to check out my stash before heading to the LYS. But then, I what a great excuse to get more yarn. I'll post a link As soon as I get the pattern.

Knitting for short spells

2005-07-26T21:53:00.000-04:00

I had once heard that knitting even for a short spell is relaxing and worth the time to pick up the needles. Boy, were they right! I CO and did 5 rounds of the Walking Hat to go with my scarf. I can't believe how relaxing that half hour was. Just knowing that I started it finally and being rested enough to wrap my head around the pattern. The one I'm doing will have the 2-3 inch cuff since I like the option of pulling it down on really cold days. I had to start the hat before I finished the scarf as I only have the two 8-oz. skeins of red heart. If I have anything left I'm going to make a pair of mittens. Since I haven't done mittens that will be another challenge for me. Ohh, what the heck. I'll do the mittens even if I have to use a similar color blue that I have. They don't have to match exactly.

What a vacation

2005-07-18T10:03:00.000-04:00

Boy did I ever take a vacation. John and I packed the car full of our clothes and food and cameras and of course, knitting gear. Did I knit? No! I took it in my SIL's house in Akron, OH and didn't pick it up at all. And I don't feel guilty. I had a great time. I rested in a way that I have not rested in years. I sat by her pond and watched the fish and birds and listened to their songs. In the early evening the bats would swoop down to get drinks of water before fluttering away. They also ate the mosquitoes which makes them my friend. What a joy to sleep in each morning until 8 or 9 and know I didn't have to get up. Having breakfast with John and just sitting on the sofa and hugging and holding hands was great! That 4 days was the greatest vacation we could have had.

But that wasn't the end of it. We went to Williamstown W. VA where the Fenton Art Glass factory is. I thought I would tour the plant and watch them paint the vases and figurines, but the heat was awful. I had to leave the tour. The great thing is that I didn't feel bad about it after all. I bought just a couple things and then went to the hotel.

After a very restful night's sleep we continued to Dresdin, OH (east of Columbus) to see the downtown stores and buy some things for my Longaberger baskets collection. I was surprised that I didn't feel compelled to go to every store. I was more interested in going to the bed and breakfast -- Inn at Dresdin. Now that was neat! To get to the house, you have to drive up a 13.5 degree incline. But it was worth it. It turned out to be an old tutor style house built by Dave Longaberger up on a hill at the edge of Dresdin. Each room is decorated differently and there are steps to get around the house since it is built on a hill. The room we had is called "the Lodge". It's a large room with a queen bed, day bed/sofa, private veranda and kitchenette. What a bathroom! We both could be in there at the same time and not bother the other one. And skylights over the bed and in the bathroom. I wouldn't mind going back and staying for a long weekend.

This is my year of discovering who I have become and which path my journey will take. With only 8-10 years left at work and work things changing all the time, the only thing I can control is the quality of my life at home. Of the many activities and things in my life, I am choosing which ones are important to me. I am finding it a great adventure.

Thank you G-d for today and the wonders you have bestowed on me.

Knitting at the Hairdresser

2005-07-06T16:30:00.000-04:00

Still working on my scarf. Today was perm day and I took my knitting. I was able to do 4 rows while waiting my turn at the beautician. I would have done more but I took a nap waiting for the chemicals to work. Hopefully I can knit some more tonight.

Irish Walking Hat pattern

2005-07-04T23:27:00.000-04:00

Just found the neatest hat pattern. Someone took the basic cable hat from page 75 of Stitch 'N Bitch Nation and made some modifications. Now the hat goes exactly with the Irish Hiking Scarf. I can't wait to make it.

2005-07-02T23:19:00.000-04:00

Picture of My Brother's Kippah that I knitted. It fits me fine and I have a 21" head. My dh has a large men's head and it is a little small. Knitted with sport weight yarn and single point needles. One seam to join the flat knitting (see right side of picture).

My Brother's Kipah pattern

2005-07-02T22:19:00.000-04:00

MY BROTHER'S KIPAH
A Knitted Kipah (Yarmulke)

Instructions by Randall Dighton

Requirements:
Fingering or sports-weight yarn in desired color
Size 3 or 4 straight or circular needles (size as required to get gauge)
Yarn needle
Gauge: 6 sts (st st) = 1"

Abbreviations: k2 tog tbl= knit the next two sts together through the back
loops. A ssk (slip, slip, knit) may be substituted.

NOTES: the last st of each row is slipped for a selvage.

Cast on 122 sts.
Row 1- *k2, p2* across, end k1, sl1 (selvage).
Row 2- *p2, k2* across, end p2, sl1 (selvage).
Rows 3 and 5- Repeat row 1.
Row 4- Repeat row 2.
Row 6- Rib 10, (k in front and back of next st (inc), rib 19) 5 times, inc
in next st, rib 10, sl 1.
Row 7- k across, sl last st.
Row 8- p across, sl last st.
Row 9- k1, *k2 tog, k8, p1, k8, k2 tog tbl, rpt from * 6 times, end sl1.
Row 10 and all ws rows- p the p sts, k the k sts, sl last st.
Row 11- k1, *k8, p1, k1, p1, k8, rpt from * 6 times, end sl1.
Row 13- k1, *k2 tog, k5, (p1, k1) twice, p1, k5, k2 tog tbl, rpt from *
6 times, end sl1.
Row 15- k1, *k5, (p1, k1) 3 times, p1, k5, rpt from * 6 times, end sl1.
Row 17- k1, *k2 tog, k2, p1, k1, p1, k3, p1, k1, p1, k2, k2 tog tbl, rpt
from * 6 times, end sl1.
Row 19- k1, *k2, (p1, k1) twice, k2 tog, yo, k2, (p1, k1) twice, k1, rpt
from * 6 times, end sl1.
Row 21- k1, *k2 tog, k1, p1, k1, k2 tog, yo, k1, yo, k2 tog tbl, k1, p1,
k1, k2 tog tbl, rpt from * 6 times, end sl1.
Row 23- k1, *k1, p1, k1, k2 tog, yo, k3, yo, k2 tog tbl, k1, p1, k1, rpt
from * 6 times, end sl1.
Row 25- k1, *(k2 tog) twice, yo, k5, yo, (k2 tog tbl) twice, rpt from *
6 times, end sl1.
Row 27- k1, *k2 tog, yo, k7, yo, k2 tog tbl, rpt from * 6 times, end sl1.
Row 29- k1, *k2 tog, k7, k2 tog tbl, rpt from * 6 times, end sl1.
Row 31- k1, *k2 tog, k5, k2 tog tbl, rpt from * 6 times, end sl1.
Row 33- k1, *k2 tog, k3, k2 tog tbl, rpt from * 6 times, end sl1.
Row 35- k1, *k2 tog, k1, k2 tog tbl, rpt from * 6 times, end sl1.
Row 37- k2 tog across. Cut yarn leaving about 12" end, thread thru yarn
needle. Slip remaining sts onto left needle, thread yarn thru all loops
from right to left, pull into tight ring.

Turn wrong side out, sew seam through both strands of each selvage.
Don't sew too tightly, seam should stretch the same as knit piece. Bury ends.

This kipah should be stretched slightly when placed on the head, which
will hold it in place without needing pins or clips.

WLCJ Knitted Kippah + one by Lois Silverman

2005-07-02T22:05:00.000-04:00

There's a really nice knitted kippah pattern at http://www.geocities.com/jbtocker/patterns/index.html

I was surprised to hear this pattern has disappeared from the web. I thought web pages stay up through eternity. Since noone can find it, I will share it here. This is what I got as a text file off the web. I don't have a picture. There are 2 patterns - one is from Women's League for Conservative Judaism and other is Lois Silverman's pattern. B'Shalom

KNITTED KIPPAH ON SINGLE POINTED NEEDLES
from Women’s League for Cons. Judaism

Materials: approx. 25 yds. knitting worsted weight yarn (MC)
1 ball Knit-Cro-Sheen silver (using three strands together)(CC)
size 6 single pointed knitting needles.

INSTRUCIONS:
Cast on 5 sts.
ROW 1: P across 5 sts.
ROW 2: K1, (K2 in each st) 3 times, K1 (8 sts)
ROW 3: P1, (P2 in each st) 6 times, K1 (14 sts)
ROW 4: K1, (K2 in next st, K1) 6 times, K1 (20 sts)
ROW 5: P1, (P2, P2 in next st) 6 times, P1 (26 sts)
ROW 6: K1, (K2 in next st, K3) 6 times, K1 (32 sts)
ROW 7: P1, (P4, P2 in next st) 6 times, P1 (38 sts)
ROW 8: K1, (K2 in next st, K5) 6 times, K1 (44 sts)
ROW 9: P across 44 sts
ROW 10: K1, (K2 in next st, K6) 6 times, K1 (50 sts)
ROW 11: P across 50 sts
ROW 12: Change to CC and K1, (K2 in next st, K7) 6 times, K1 (56 sts)
ROW 13: Change to MC and P across 56 sts
ROW 14: K1, (K2 in next st, K8) 6 times, K1 (62 sts)
ROW 15: Change to CC and P across 62 sts
ROW 16: K across 62 sts
ROW 17: P across 62 sts
ROW 18: Change to MC and K1, (K2 in next st, K9) 6 times, K1 (68 sts)
ROW 19: P across 68 sts
ROW 20: Change to CC and K across 68 sts
ROW 21: Change to MC and P across 68 sts
ROW 22: K across 68 sts
ROW 23: P across 68 sts
Cast off loosely as if to knit.
Steam lightly with warm steam iron into shape.

KNITTED KIPPAH ON DOUBLE POINTED NEEDLES
Designed by Lois Silverman, NY State Branch

Materials: approx. 30 yds. knitting worsted weight yarn and
1 ball Knit-Cro-Sheen silver (using three strands together)*
5 size 6 double pointed knitting needles.

INSTRUCIONS:
Cast on 4 sts.
RND 1: K2 in each st (8 sts)
RND 2: (K2 in next st, K1) 4 times (12 sts)
RND 3: (K2 in next st, K2) 4 times (16 sts)
RND 4: (K2 in next st, K3) 4 times (20 sts)
RND 5: (K2 in next st, K4) 4 times (24 sts)
RND 6: (K2 in next st, K5) 4 times (28 sts)
RND 7: (K2 in next st, K6) 4 times (32 sts)
RND 8: (K2 in next st, K7) 4 times (36 sts)
RND 9: (K2 in next st, K8) 4 times (40 sts)
RND 10: (K2 in next st, K9) 4 times (44 sts)
RND 11: Using CC, (K2 in next st, K10) 4 times (48 sts)
RND 12: Using MC, (K2 in next st, K11) 4 times (52 sts)
RND 13: (K2 in next st, K12) 4 times (56 sts)
RND 14: Using CC, (K2 in next st, K13) 4 times (60 sts)
RND 15: (K2 in next st, K14) 4 times (66 sts)
RND 16: (K2 in next st, K15) 4 times (72 sts)
RND 17: Using MM, (K2 in next st, K16) 4 times (78 sts)
RND 18: K78
RND 19: Using CC, K78
RND 20: K78
RND 22: K78
RND 23: K78
RND 24: K78

Then: Cast off loosely as if to knit.
Steam lightly with warm steam iron into shape.

Old Friends make me warm and cozy

2005-06-19T10:05:00.000-04:00

Had a great time at Mug's Coffee on Thursday. Merrilee and Bev showed the prettiest baby outfits they knitted. Bev is so talented with making buttons and flowers to adorn them. I took the same old scarf that I've been working on forever. I have quite a bit done and decided to keep it for myself. I'm also thinking about putting in a keyhole to slip one end through. That will help keep it wrapped without taking up bulk. Merrilee and I folded it in half and measured it to 24 rows. That probably is long enough. (I don't want to make it too long otherwise all the cold air will get in.) I also want the keyhole near my neck so that the scarf stays nice and tight. I downloaded a bunch of keyhole scarves off the Lyonbrand site and will look at them today.

What kind of a knitter am I?

2005-05-24T11:13:00.000-04:00

I have what some of you may think as a rather strange problem. I have not touched my knitting for a month or so. Yes, here I am talking to my knitting friends but my knitting sits there alone and abandoned. I just had to let the frustration out.

I have 2 projects going and I wonder if I took on one that is too hard for me at the moment. One project is a lovely hitchhiker scarf I started in the winter. The pattern is an easy cable and should be done already. But then I became fascinated with learning fairisle knitting. I bought the kit, took a workshop and learned the technique. I actually bought 2 kits - one for me and one for my DH. Now I keep thinking I should work on the sweater I told my DH I would do for him. Funny thing is that he didn't even ask for it. I started it as a learning tool.

With the Philosopher's Wool sweater, besides learning about sweaters I have to calculate the size as it is for my teddy bear of a hubby. I now must confess that I think I took on too much for a first sweater. I haven't given myself permission to set it aside and do a simple sweater to learn on.

I do believe that part of the same depression is that I have also been quite a recluse. When I was disabled (due to osteoarthritis of the hip) it took all I could to get to work. So the rest of the time I sat at home and watched TV or anything mindless. Now that I got a new left hip, I need to get out and be with people. I need to get out and start doing stuff.

So here I am with spring well in bloom, sitting at the computer, feel bad about myself and not knitting. I love to knit. I love to create. But I have to give myself permission to change my direction. I need to take the PW yarn and make a regular sweater out of it. I can learn the fairisle some other time. I need to make myself a sweater with the yarn. I can make something for work to keep me warm... and believe me even in summer it gets cold in the office.

Now how do I tell me my hubby that his beautiful sweater is going to be a sweater for me?!

2005-02-24T01:47:00.000-05:00

I am having so much trouble finding the 3 hours... ahh let's face it. I'm having trouble getting 15 minutes where I can concentrate on the knitting. I was so tired after work tonight that all I did was grab a sandwich for dinner and vegetate in front of the TV. And tomorrow night is a class. Guess that means it will be maybe Saturday before I can find time to sit and knit... what a bummer!

Philosopher's Wool Workshop part 1

2005-02-19T11:29:00.000-05:00

Last night was the Philosopher's Wool Workshop at Threadbear in Lansing, MI. The first wonderful thing was that I drove all by myself and made it! It is 1 1/2 hours from Detroit and I've never driven that far on my own without having a problem. I did start to fall asleep but I'm sure it was due to the heavy rush hour traffic. I left at 3:15 and hit Howell about 4 pm. I think I'll leave earlier next time so I won't hit that traffic. I stopped at Howell and got coffee and had a really nice conversation with a lady at the gas station. That gave me a nice 10 minute break before getting back on the road.

The class was great!! There were 3 of us in the workshop so we got lots of individual attention. Marcia Carpenter, our instructor, went through all the steps beginning with the stitches. To learn them just go to Philosopher's Wool and watch the video. Of course, now that I'm home, I had to look at the hand out and book to remind myself. She said that 3 hours of concentrated practice will really cement them in your mind and fingers. Now to find 3 hours of time alone ;-)

Next time we talk about seaming and steeking - even if we aren't done by then. I know that I'll have to take lots of notes for that part. I'll be surprised if I get even half the body done. Marcia said that knitting a Philosopher's Wool sweater takes 160 hours of knitting. She also said that she's available for questions even after the class is over. Now that is dedication! Thank you Marcia!

time off from knitting

2005-02-12T16:46:00.000-05:00

I sure need to take some time off and clean up my computer and all that information. I had 6 cd's of back-ups that actually were mostly the same information. I had to put them all onto my computer and try to sort that out. I was going to make up a cd of all my knitting stuff but I wonder if it will fit on my new flash drive. In any event, I sure do need to organize my thoughts.

I got my updated Master Knitter Level 1 directions. So I made copies and started highlighting. I was looking at the knitting books I have for reference and realized I need to make a list of what I have. That way I don't buy one that I already own... gee, knitters don't do that... do we :-)

But tonight is a night off from knitting and computers. Going out to Chinese soon and then off to a Peter Nero concert at the DSO. I can't wait to hear some good Gershwin and Nero is a great pianist. Back to knitting tomorrow.

2005-02-06T19:43:00.000-05:00

As promised here is a picture of my lovely Josephine as she sits on the recliner with my hubby John. She just woke up as I was taking her picture. She isn't as fat as she looks all curled up.

Great Shopping in Rochester

2005-02-05T18:41:00.000-05:00

I couldn't help myself. It wasn't my fault. As happens so many Saturdays when we run errands. Today was just a special day. We went to Borders Books and I found Stitch 'n Bitch, Stitch 'n Bitch Nation and Knit Book 1. Then we were on to the store I had been waiting all week to go to - the Jeweler in Rochester, MI. I had lost so much weight that he had to resize my rings and while I was at it I had him put another charm on my necklace for Natalie.

While in Rochester I figured I would try to visit Skeins on Main I had heard so much about. We got there and it was packed with customers. I was so excited to see all the store folk helping everyone. The store is very long and narrow and jammed with little vinettes for every kind of knitting one can imagine. John was excited that they had a place with 3 chairs by a fireplace for him to sit. They are getting into the Philosopher's Wool kits and I will probably buy my next kit from them. I did buy the stitch markers and needles that are sitting on books.

Then we went to dinner at Alibi's. Hmm, they make such good broccoli cheese balls served with a delicious dip. John said his patty melt was good too. I got the lake perch and it was to die for. While there I was reading the Troy Gazette and what did I see but an announcement about a little shop named "My Craft Room." I thought it was a finished consignment shop but ohh what a joy when I got down to Square Lake and Rochester Rd. and found a great little craft supply store. I was pleasantly surprised to see a all sorts of neat crafts. They even have a wire wrapping class that I might take.

My Craft Room in Troy had a great little book "The Portable Crafter: Knitting" Of course, I had to take it home - didn't I? ... It's wonderful! I found patterns for a purse, childrens hats, adult hats and scarves, towels, and several baby sweaters. It is full of tips and techniques and stitches. I can't wait to do some of the projects. Now if I could only make the days a little longer...

Which project to do next?

2005-02-03T08:47:00.000-05:00

Knitting the scarf is a great carry along project and somewhat mindless after you get the rhythm of the pattern. I still have 1/2 the foot and all the toe to do on the 2nd of my brown Opal socks. The 18th I start working on the Philosopher's Wool sweater workshop. And here I am thinking of what else I want to do.

May 2004 I got the directions for the Master Knitter Level 1. I started out just great. made photocopies for my personal use, found a folder to put articles in, made a preliminary outline of what to do first, second, etc., and even bought the yarn and here I am ... what am I waiting for? All it takes is knit about 16 swatches and answer some questions. What am I so nervous about? I even have a MK buddy or two in the Master Knitter Yahoo group.

I have made up my mind. This weekend is Knitting weekend. That is after going to get oil for the car, the jeweler, out to dinner, laundry, clean the house... wow is me... will I ever start?

2005-01-26T22:29:00.000-05:00

Here's a nice picture of the completed Lucy Bag. It is not meant to be felted. That's good since I don't know how to felt yet. It is a nice small bag to carry a small project in. It is 8 inches wide and 8 1/2 inches high (without the straps).

2005-01-26T22:25:00.000-05:00

Here is the sock I made with Merie's basic sock pattern. It is cast on 64 stitches and knit with US #1's. I love the eye of the partridge heel. The ribbing helps them stay up and works with my swollen ankles.

2005-01-26T22:24:00.000-05:00

This is the first pair of socks I ever made. Even though I have a 9" foot, this sock is even too big for a bed sock. I keep them cuz they are a good example of how to make a sock.

Irish Hiking Knitalong

2005-01-23T15:32:00.000-05:00

I joined the Irish Hiking Knitalong today and just started working on the scarf. I'm having so much fun! I mark the last row of the repeat with the coiless pin. I used stitch markers to remind me that the cables are coming up. The needle is an old set of Boye interchangeables that my Mom gave me. The only problem with them is that I have to keep tightening the one end. I put a button on the sidebar if you want to see what the others are doing with it.

Knittingfool Reference Site

2005-01-23T13:18:00.000-05:00

The Knitting Fool is the most delicious web site. There is so much great information on this site that it will take a while for me to absorb all of it. I know I'll be there all day clicking all the links and see what all I can find.

Napoleon watches me wind yarn

2005-01-22T13:40:00.000-05:00

Napoleon was product controller while I wouind yarn. I sure hope I did a good job. Otherwise he withholds those precious lap sessions. Now his sister Josephine is easy! Just give her a rub between the ears and she's with me all night.

Tearing out ribbing rows

2005-01-18T13:33:00.000-05:00

Well, I bit the bullet and tore out that extra row. I tried to live with it and just couldn't do it. So I ripped out til the row that was correct. I picked up the last correct row of stitches on to a #1--16" Addi circular needle. (Takes all the stress out when you know the stitches are already on a needle.)

WHEW! I feel so much better. And now I am almost back to the top of the cuff. It says to knit about 4" of cuff using the double sandwich technique. That makes it about 2 rows too many but then I'd rather finish the "sandwich" and have it look right. Besides, John has a large sweater and it will look right with his size.

Tools I added to by knitting bag for this project:

extra set of #6 pearl DPN's I had laying around for picking up stitches and acting like stitch holders.
#1 16" Addi circular for picking up the stitches.
Plain old scissors to cut the yarn.

Mistake or learning a lesson?

2005-01-18T13:13:00.000-05:00

Last night I proved once more that I am not perfect. I was trying so hard to get the cuff right on knitting the PW sweater. Thing is no one ever told me that when you knit rows of color that it doesn't show up until you already are knitting the next color. Example:

knit 3 rows of color A
(see 2 rows of color A and the loops for the 3rd row of color A on the needle)

Knit 1 row of color B
(see 3 rows of color A and the loops of color B on the needle)

Which now leads me to my dilemma. I was proudly looking at my almost done cuff and realized that I had 4 rows of a color that was supposed to only be 3 rows. Do I rip down and re-knit or just leave it and do the other cuff to match? The perfectionist in me says rip... The tired of ribbing self says just leave and match.

I know myself! I will rip it out and learn from my mistake. Whew! I sure hope I don't make these mistakes with the pattern...

Here I go a winding...

2005-01-16T14:12:00.000-05:00

Today I wound balls. The last one is on the swift and others are in the chair. I don't have a permanent table so I put together 2 TV tables. That way I can put them away when I'm done.

I love the swift that I got at Patternworks. It's such fantastic quality workmanship and really solid. Well worth the money.

Met Eugene and Ann Bourgeois

2005-01-13T00:23:00.000-05:00

I just came home from a wonderful but exhausting time with Merie. We went to Threadbear Yarn Shop in Lansing Michigan. Just getting there was quite an adventure. The weather was awful! The fog started in the morning and only got worse. By noon it was like soup. The radio kept saying if you don't have to go out - DON'T. Well, I really wanted to meet Ann and Eugene and find out about their sweaters. I called Merie and it was still a go to meet at the book store in Novi.

I gave myself plenty of time to get to Borders and wait. Turned out I got there in about a half hour with a half hour to wait. So I turned on the ham and commercial radios and listened. Just about 3:30 pm I heard that I-96 was closed due to a 50 car pile-up. WHAT!! Merie and I were supposed to be on that road right now!! Well, Merie was late and I was never so grateful. I had time to call Matt at Threadbear and get alternate directions. As for the wrecks? It turned out to be a 200 car pile up with 2 fatalities and several went to hospital.

I pause to say "Thank you G-d for protecting us!!"

We ended up 45 minutes late but it was great. They told the story of how they make the yarn. They had a trunk show with all sorts of wonderful sweaters, ponchos, shawls and tams. They have a special for the kits and you got a Philosopher's Wool bag free if you bought yarn or kits. They are such a lovely couple. Eugene put together a kit for me to make a sweater for John (DH). It is the Black and Blue colourway in the garden path pattern. Eugene made sure I got the needles and everything so I could start right away. I got a kit for myself with the "colour your own" pattern and muted pastels. I love it.

Now to watch the video again and reread the book. Speaking of which, Eugene signed it for himself and Ann. I can't wait to get started on the sweater for John.

Will I be sick all Winter??

2005-01-10T21:08:00.000-05:00

I feel like I've been sick all winter! I haven't been knitting. I'm too exhausted! Mom has been here and feels like all the time she's here I've been sick. Not much of a visit with her that's for sure. I hope I don't make her sick. This all started as a head cold and just moved on down the road (so to speak). Now it's back to a cold. I've been in constant contact with the doctor just to make sure it's not anything I need to take an antibiotic for. When I got my new hip, they told me to make sure I get antibiotics if I have an infection. Believe you me, I am making sure!

I actually looked at the socks I'm doing and I have maybe 1/2 a foot and then the toe to do and be done with that pair. Then they'll be on my feet. ;-)

So back for more tea and then rest. I am looking forward to going to see Ann and Eugene from Philosopher's Wool on Wednesday.

Lucy Bag done

2005-01-01T10:56:00.000-05:00

I finally finished the Pamela Lucy Bag that I was knitting. I used strawberry colored (#9237) Crystal Palace Deco Ribbon. I just love how it feels and it is a strong sturdy little bag. The closure with the large loop going through the small loop is just wonderful. I can't wait to try it out. I'll post a picture as soon as I find my camera... I know it's here somewhere.

Philosopher's Wool and Lucy Bag

2004-12-25T03:03:00.000-05:00

Today was my day to knit! Since I already I had 2 days off my work was pretty well done. Well, almost all. I haven't gone grocery shopping but then no one likes to do that! I don't have to work until Sunday. Believe me, it is so nice to have 2 extra days and not have to go anywhere. I did all my household chores and just sat and knitted while trying to learn the Philosopher's Wool fairisle technique. I got the video tape and book for Hanukkah and finally had some quiet time to watching it. The tape was well worth the money. However, I sure do wish it were on DVD. I hope I don't wear it out as I go back and forth to learn the stitches and take notes on finishing techniques. Now all I have to do is finish the book and make a sweater. I can't wait to see them at Threadbear . I hope to buy yarn and needles so I can make a sweater.

After my knitting lesson we watched "Anger Management" DVD. It was good but nothing to write home about. I knitted on my Lucy Bag during most of it. It's seed stitch and I was really pleased that I didn't mess up. It's made out a luscious salmon Crystal Palace Deco ribbon on US #9 circulars. I've never done the seed stitch before. I can't say I enjoy the actually knitting of it, but I sure do like the look. When I finish knitting the bag, I'll have to find out how to sew a lining to it.

Tomorrow will be a nice quiet day and evening. As per our usual Christmas day dinner will be Chinese. DH even said something about going to the movies. Sounds like a plan to me. Hmm, I wonder which chick flick I can con him into go to this time ;-)

No knitting tonight

2004-12-20T23:55:00.000-05:00

I can't believe how little knitting I've been doing. I seem to be building my arm muscles carrying my knitting bag around and yet haven't taken my stitching out of the bag. My big excuse is that my boss gave me a big project to do and I keep having that on my mind. The truth is that I'm just too darn tired and cold... yes it is freezing here in Michigan. Yesterday it was 6 F and the wind chill was -11. Today it was a little better and when I got out of work at 11 p.m. it was 21 in my car. I look like a little Eskimo in all my bundles of clothing. Tomorrow morning before work I am going to devote 1 hour to knitting. Never know I might even finish that 2nd sock.

Bead Size Conversions

2004-12-18T01:28:00.000-05:00

The December pattern for the Six Sox KAL has beading. One of the members posted this web site to help figure out beading size based on the size of the bead. Just scroll part way down the page for a good explanation of the sizing. Farther down is the conversion chart for the x/0 size.

She said they are about the right size to work with fingering weight sock yarn and saw that they would work with a small crochet hook. The beads were size 6/0.

Gotta love that Man

2004-12-14T09:28:00.000-05:00

As I mentioned before I've been working on this darn blog for ages already. I was having trouble with the way it looked. Well, my lovely John took one look at it and said, "I bet that link is too long." I was stubborn and mad. Here I had been looking for ages and couldn't figure it out... and he took one glance and may have the answer. I wasn't going to try it... no way!

Well, folks, I have learned a lesson. Give it a shot! I had to swallow my pride and move the link and Voila! Everything is fixed!

John I love you! You were right on target. And now I can go back to what is import -- knitting.

Goodies in my sock bag:

2004-12-11T11:45:00.000-05:00

Materials

1 skein Opal yarn (or 2 skeins Lorna's Lace)
size 0 DPN for when have to rip back (can use contrasting thread)
size 1 (12") Addi for the sock
size 1 (16") for doing heel or toe
size 2 (12") Addi for the ribbing

Plus

my foot measurement created from the cardboard back of an 8x11 notepad. Shows total foot length, beginning of toe (ball of foot) & toe length
stitch marker to mark beginning of round
2 stitch markers to mark beginning and end of instep
row markers to help in counting rows
Size D or C for picking up stitches
Turbo Needlegauge Skacel Collection to measure Addi needles
post it notes for notes
pen to write with
scissors
tapestry needle
measuring tape
metal gauge measure
Nancy Knit Knacks cards (all of them on a ring)

Laminated Cheat Sheets:

Kitchener stitch
Heel Turn
Eye of Partridge heel stitch
Toe stitch
Afterheel directions

Making Hankies

2004-12-08T21:35:00.000-05:00

Merie came over for an afternoon of knitting and chatting all afternoon. I finished the 1 sock of "Merie's plain sock" pattern. I have the ribbing and some of the cuff done on the mate. I'll be so excited when I've got these done because it'll be the first time to have a pair that fit!! I love knitting socks on one circular. By the time the afternoon is over, I feel like I can do just about anything. Thank you Merie!

We talked about knitting and socks and how to make hankies.

How to make hankies:

white fabric (100% cotton or 100% linen)
cut to 11 inch square
can use the thread pull technique to square up the fabric or can use a quilter's square.
fold over and press 1/4" on all sides (now it is 10 1/2" square)
now fold it over and press 1/4" on all sides again (now it is 10" square)
Machine sew close to inside fold or use a blind hem stitch.

If going to add tatted or crocheted edging then --
Use a large empty sewing needle on your machine to run a row of holes close to the edge.

Also you can look online for ways to use your serger or embroidery machine to make some exquisite hankies. Take a look at just what I found on Google.

http://www.google.com/search?sourceid=navclient&ie=UTF-8&q=making+hankies

Back on Track after visit from OZ

2004-12-01T09:08:00.000-05:00

What a wonderful 10 days. We had a great time with the whole family here. Our son Jim (he prefers James but after all he is still MY little boy) and his wife Angela were here with her parents. They are all such lovely folks. We had a great time. I know if we lived closer that we would get along famously. But then Australia is an awful ways away from from Michigan. We hope to go there in 2006 G-d willing. But alas, no knitting time. We walked all over showing them the city and even having an adventure going into Windsor, Ontario.

I will miss them terribly, but I need a vacation from the past 10 days. And I think a little knitting is just what I need to help.

Knitting Delay

2004-11-20T22:47:00.000-05:00

You may have noticed that my page is acting wierd. Or is it just me? I don't know. Let me know if you see the sidebar directly next to the messages or do you have to scroll down to see them? So I'm working on getting it where even I can see it right. So, please excuse the dust.

You've heard it before... "the road to hell is paved with good intentions". Here I am all ready to start my second Merie's sock and I have to prepare for company. No, I'm not complaining. I'm so excited that my Jimmy is coming home to visit... and that he's bringing his lovely wife and parents in-law. I feel I have so much to do before they get here tomorrow afternoon. I know I must have forgotten and not bought all the food I need. (Gee, you would think I live in the country where the stores are way far away) But that doesn't stop the guilt. I want the socks to be done so I can start another pair. Actually I'd like to have a pair that fit.

This is my 3rd pair of socks and I'm still tweaking the basic pattern. I tried on the one I finished and it's snug but felt good. The real test will be when I finish the 2nd one and wear them. The one thing I do know is that I have to work on the gusset pick ups to avoid holes and the kitchener stitch.

I went to the meet-up Friday at Knitter's Kove and it was alot of fun. We had 3 ladies from the Michigan Knit group and the 3 ladies who work there. We all had fun chatting about our projects and new patterns. I picked up a pattern and yarn to make a Lucy Bag. It's in a salmon color and going to yummy to use. Just the size for carrying socks-on-the-go.

tension - knitting and otherwise

2004-11-18T13:13:00.000-05:00

My Jimmy is coming home to visit!! I'm so excited I can't stand it. In fact, not only is he coming, but his wife and in-laws. I haven't entertained anyone for years. And now I have 2 at my house and 2 at a hotel and we'll be together for 9 days... no wonder I'm stressed!! Well, last night I was knitting my socks and looked at the toe... wow ... I couldn't believe how the tension had changed.

I've been reading about folks who knit tight and I know I'm not one of them. I usually have no trouble with tension - until now. I didn't realize how much stress I am under and how it was affecting me. Now I know that I need to either put down my knitting until my son leaves or find a way to de-stress. I take the latter.

So I think I will rip out the toe so it will all look good. I'm sort of a perfectionist. No I can't have the sock look so different when I can't guarantee the second one is going to look that way.

So here goes...

Stitch Glossary

2004-11-12T09:32:00.000-05:00

Had to share this great resource. Interweave Knits magazine has a subscriber section and it's easy to subscribe. There is a code on the front of the magazine. Just log into the site and click on "Stitch Glossary". here's the link to go directly to the glossary.
The entire site is chock full of good information and FREE patterns.

Disk Recreated

2004-11-06T09:00:00.000-05:00

I sure did like experimenting with the fabric disk. Thing is its a failure. The glue didn't stick and if I had not pinned it to my sock yarn, I would have not known which side to use. So glue doesn't work. Now if only I had all the optional things to make it, I would give disk #2 a try with the little magnet, the batting (to keep it all smooth) and serging the edges. I will have to sew it since I don't have a serger. Nice that the denim didn't fray. But I came across a great substitute and a way to make it a multipurpose disk.

Yet here I am with the new and improved sock disk. While cleaning my computer room, I found this plastic disk. I think it's from the office supply and used for keys. I'm going to use it for socknitting. It now will be for both the heel flap and turn. I not only have k1 on one side and k2 on the other, but I have decrease on one side and even on the other. Now I have a tool for the EOP and the gusset. I wonder what else I can use it for...

time to turn

2004-11-04T01:12:00.000-05:00

I can't believe that I've been back to work for 3 days. And whew! I sure am tired. But not that tired that I can't knit. I took my sock to work so I can knit on break and it was so relaxing. I have a window behind my desk and a side chair that faces the Detroit River, Bell Isle and north. So I sat and knitted for 15 minutes. No typing, no phones, no computer, no boss with another thing she wants me to do. Funny thing is that I was so into the act of knitting that I forgot I was so close to turning the heel. So I had to rip out 2 rows. With a day off tomorrow, I'll turn the heel and be on my way home.

Just Flip It

2004-10-31T11:24:00.000-05:00

I was trying to knit an Eye of Partridge heel and kept forgetting which row I was on. Was I on the K1 or the K2 row? The pattern is:

SL 1, K1, across (ends with K)
SL 1, purl across
SL 1, *K2, SL l*, repeat between ** across, ending with K2
SL 1, purl across

After my fiasco the other night where I had to rip out almost 2 inches, I was watching closely and counting stitches after each row. But I still got confused. So I went through all my notions to find something I can use. I wanted something that I could flip so that I would know by looking which row I was on. I couldn't find anything so I decided to make something myself.

I came up with a 2 colored disk that is labeled "Knit" on one side and "Knit 2" on the other. I can lay it on the table next to me and then flip it when I finish the row. Example: just finish the K1 row so flip it to the K2 side.

Now if I look away or my mind starts wondering then I can just look at the disk and know where I am in the pattern. Disclaimer-I don't sew much so this is a non-sewing technique. Here's how I made it:

Materials:
2 different colors of thick fabric like denim
an unopened coil of stamps or something to measure 1 1/8" circle
fabric glue
fraycheck (if edges of material fray)
tiny magnetic weight (optional)
batting material (optional)

Make 2 disks each of 2 being different colors. Measure a circle using the stamps, cut it out and then glue the layers together. Then wrote "K1" on one side and "K2" on the other. Since I am going to flip this disk, I want some sort of contour. While the glue is setting up put 2 paperclips crossways and let sit several hours. I let mine sit overnight. When dry it will be easy to flip the disk with just one hand.

Since the 2 sides are different colors this is good for any kind of 2 row pattern. Just decide which color represents which row.

Alternatives:
Can fill with batting, use only outside disks of 2 different colors
Use magnetic weight inside so it will stay where placed better
Serge edges together instead of gluing

Frogging all night

2004-10-28T22:00:00.000-04:00

There I was in my own little world just knitting away on the eye of partridge heel and I suddenly realized that I was lost a stitch. Must have dropped a slip stitch on one of the rows. Sure enough I looked and there it was hanging on the side about an inch down.

I could have left it since it is just the heel... but no not me. I started to rip stitch by stitch for about 3 rows. But I just couldn't wait that long. So I held my breath and took out the needle and let it RIP. The amazing this is that I was able to pick up the stitches and didn't lose a single one! Thank goodness I was able to save about an inch of heel already done. Now to do the other 1 1/4" inches.

Fighting Dreary Days

2004-10-25T08:46:00.000-04:00

Can't believe how this fall feels different for me. Where did the sun go? I miss it already and winter hasn't even arrived. Thank G-d for my Ott light. It does give off sunshine-like light as well as make it so I can knit and watch TV at night. Maybe if I have that on enough, I won't miss the sun so much later. Last night I watched TV and was only able to do about 4 or 5 rounds on my basic sock. I thought about working on the cascade leaves but can't concentrate on them while watching American Dreams and CI. I cried when they showed AD previews and JJ is going to MIA. I remember the 60's and my friends going off to war. And now... being a military mom I understand how they all feel.

2004-10-22T13:50:00.000-04:00

Here's a picture of the Delaney dress that I knitted for my new granddaughter Natalie. She was born 8/24/04 and quite a cutie. The dress is size 12 month. I think she has a little bit of growing to do ;-) The Delaney dress pattern is #13 from the Berroco #218 booklet using Pronto and Bubble FX yarn.

2004-10-21T22:17:00.000-04:00

Here's my Cascade leaves (green) on US #1 dpn's & basic sock on size 1 circs.

I can't believe that I've learned such great stuff since January (WOW seems so long ago). That's when I learned how to make socks (or anything with dpn's). That pair turned out way too big but still a good pair of socks. Now to find them a good home . . . maybe a holiday gift for Big Foot?!

It was great fun with Merie yesterday--visiting, knitting and drinking Turkish coffee. She is such a good teacher. She explained everything as we knit and answered all my questions. With my trusty notes I'll be able to knit by myself. It was such a great day. Thanks Merie.

Today I went through my craft supplies. I shouldn't have been surprised with what I found. You've done it - went through everything you have just to see what all you have. Maybe even do a little organization . . . Then finding stuff that you don't remember buying and things you couldn't find ages ago. That's what I happened to me. I have enough embroidery floss to make a zillion ccs or needlepoint pieces and I got that years ago. And I dare not buy another quilted tote or portable light. Need I go on? . . . All I know is that I'll have to retire to use up all the crafting supplies. The truth is - there is never enough time to do crafts. ;-)

round 3 coming along

2004-10-20T01:17:00.000-04:00

I finally figured out what was wrong with my light. It was too close of all thing. So I had it moved about 6" away from my chair and now it works really nicely. I can get the light but I don't feel like I'm burning up. I did 1 round of the Cascade Leaves cuff yesterday and tonight I did 3 rounds. I'm doing pretty good even though I've never worked with the 1's before. They seem so much smaller than the #2 needles.

Tomorrow my friend is coming over for a visit. She's going to teach me how to make socks with one circular. Well, actually it is 2 but only when doing the heel. We'll see how much I like that technique. I hope I like it somewhat since those Addi Turbo's cost me 12.95 each. It really isn't that much considering the Crystal Palace double points are between 8.95 - 12.95 depending on the size. What I like is that I don't have to replace them. At least that is what I told my hubby when trying to explain the money I was spending.

I can't wait to have someone over and knit and chat.

Need Light

2004-10-16T10:53:00.000-04:00

I'm working on Cascade Leaves Socks as part of the Townsend KnitALong. I finally got the ribbing done. I tried to knit last night but got so hot under my ott light. whew! I hate that DH wants the room almost dark while we watch TV. The regular table lamp shines right into the TV so I have to use the ott light. I need to find a way to put the regular light somewhere that doesn't shine right into the TV. I think I'm gonna try switching the chair and end table to my other side. Wish the TV ccould be moved. Boy I hate having a small house! Think I'll have to work on knitting during the daytime today.

I'm still trying to figure out this blogger so please bear with me.