Hyeknitter

Test Knitting

2010-10-01T10:05:00.027-05:00

This summer I had the opportunity to test knit for the first time. It was a lot of fun, and I hope I'll be able to do it again.

The first pattern I test knitted was the Curatio Shawl for Kirsten at Through the Loops.

The pattern was great - it has three different (but easy!) lace patterns and they are separated by garter stitch bands. The pattern never gets boring, and is very enjoyable.

On the first lace section, the lace pattern is worked on every row. I'd never done this before and was a bit worried, but it was really quite easy.

I used a skein of Dream in Color Smooshy, and this is some of the best sock yarn out there - so soft and the colors are beautiful!

My second test knit was also for Kirsten. I was so happy to get to test here gorgeous Snow Drop and Snap Peas shawl.

This was my first time knitting a semi-circular shawl, and I can't wait to knit another one.

The pattern was quite easy and enjoyable. The rows toward the end get very long with 400 - 500 stitches, but it's totally worth it!

I used Araucania Ranco for this one, and forgot to check my yardage. I ran out of yarn about 4 rows from finishing the shawl, but thanks to a fellow Raveler was able to procure another skein. The lesson here - all sock yarns are not equal! Some have less than 400 yards in a skein, though it can be hard to remember when so many have 400 yards plus. You will definately need at least 400 yards to finish this shawl.

My third test knit was for Oiyi.

This is her newly released LaReine Shawl. I loved knitting this pattern. The lace is easy but not boring, and I especially love the beautiful pattern that forms around the shawl's spine.

This was my first time using Cascade Heritage Sock Yarn, and it's a great yarn. It's quite soft and wonderful to work with. I've got two more skeins of it in the same color, so I'm sure I'll be using it again. I had a very small ball of yarn left after finishing the shawl.

Happy October! I really don't know how September went by so quickly, but fall is in full swing now, and I'm loving it! And today is the start of Socktoberfest and the Through the Loops Mystery Sock KAL. Hopefully I'll be able to complete the pair this month and maybe even finish my Cubist Socks:

Why I Knit the Same Sweater Twice

2010-09-27T10:01:00.015-05:00

...or, when you sense something's wrong with your knitting, frog it. Don't keep going on telling yourself it'll be fine, when a little voice in the back of your head keeps saying it won't :)

So last summer I started Buttercup with 7 skeins of Elsebeth Lavold Hempathy - six skeins of one dyelot and a seventh of a different, noticeable darker dyelot. I told myself it'd be okay, and started the top-down sweater with the one odd skein. After starting the second skein the difference was very noticeable and I frogged the sweater with plans to make it again this summer. (You can see my original post here.)

I decided to try the sweater again this summer. In a fit of brilliance (not!) I decided that instead of using the one odd skein by itself in the first half, I'd alternate rows with another skein. Let me just say, bad idea. I somehow convinced myself it was okay and finished the sweater.

You can see the striping in this photo. Also, the neckline was too low for my taste - it just looked weird with a shell under it. I like my sweaters to be about 15" from the underam to the hem. After trying it on, I decided that even though the sweater was about 2" short of that, it felt okay, and bound off. Another bad idea. It was too short, ending at the widest part of my hips, not flattering at all.

I decided to try again, with only the six balls of yarn, and using option B of the pattern, which has a higher neckline. I also decided to make the body length 15", and not go by the try-on length. I'm so glad I tried again, because I love this sweater!

Pattern: Buttercup by Heidi Kirrmaier
Yarn: Elsebeth Lavold Hempathy, color 14, 6 skeins
Needles: US 4 & US 5

This is the second time I've used this yarn, and I love it. It's a bit rough to work with, but it wears incredibly well, and makes a very comfortable sweater.

I finished this in late summer and didn't get a lot of time to wear it before fall, but I hope to enjoy it next year.

And I'm so glad for this lesson that I was able to use this past weekend. I was working on my Tree Jacket and made a mistake which I realized a few rows afterwards. I tried to brush it off, but finally decided to rip a few rows and fix the mistake. I'm so glad I did, because the mistake would have thrown off the pattern of the whole sweater yoke.

I'm absolutely loving this knit, and the Cascade Venezia - it's sooo soft and silky smooth!

So How Hard Can it Be to Get a Finished Sweater Photo?

2010-09-17T10:27:00.010-05:00

A bit difficult, apparently.

I finished three sweaters last winter and I never managed to get decent photos of them. Hopefully now that fall is here I'll get some good modeled photos.

The sweaters, in finished order, are:

The DROPS Jacket.

The Heather Hoodie Vest.

The February Lady Sweater.

I should probably also ask how long it'll take for me to not try to use yarn that cannot really be salvaged. Last summer I started a Buttercup sweater in Elsebeth Lavold Hempathy. I had a total of 7 balls, 6 of one dyelot and the 7th a different one. I really should have known better than to try to use that one odd ball in the sweater.

I tried alternating rows for the first part of the sweater with one of the other balls, but the color change was still quite noticeable. I also made the sweater too short and didn't like how the neckline came out. So, I decided to frog the thing and make it again. I'm so glad I did, because it came out perfectly! Photos next time!

I'm Not Making Any Promises...

2010-09-14T12:03:00.010-05:00

...but hopefully I'll be blogging more.

I had a great summer - it went by way too fast, and I still can't believe its almost the middle of September already.

The summer was, once again, full of softball.

I attempted to get back to sewing a little and really didn't do so well - I'm not very good at tearing myself away from my knitting and sewing just isn't portable!

I started running about 4 - 5 times a week in June. I'm very surprised - for someone who is very prone to staying inside doing activities that always require nothing but sitting, I've grown to really enjoy running.

The best part was running my first 5k this past weekend with some of my family and friends.

It was so hard and I thought I was going to die towards the end. That's why I can't wait to participate in a 4 mile run this weekend ;) Seriously, there's something satisfying about being able to run farther and farther, especially if you didn't think you were going to be able to do it.

With knitting, I did manage to take photos of the Tangled Yoke Cardigan:

Pattern: Tangled Yoke Cardigan by Eunny Jang, from Interweave Knits Fall 2007
Yarn: Rowan Felted Tweed, Cocoa, 8 Balls
Needles: US 3 & 4
Mods: Lengthened the sweater, shortened the ribbing portion on the sleeves & body of the sweater.

Rowan Felted Tweed is a bit expensive, but it's so worth it. This is some of the nicest yarn ever! I love this sweater, and it's too bad I didn't finish it until late February and didn't have much time to wear it before spring.

The one thing I did wrong was to not add more buttonholes to go with the added length. There's some definate button gaping going on, and I may try to fix it with snaps. Just something to keep in mind when lenthening a cardigan!

I hope your autumn weather is as nice as ours has been!

Crazy Goals

2010-03-16T10:11:00.003-06:00

So I've sat down to write this post several times and just have never finished it - but now I've finally done it!

At the beginning of this year, even though I failed miserably last year, I decided to try to knit 12 Sweaters in 2010. I also decided to knit 12 pairs of socks this year. I'm still hoping I'll be able to meet my goals, but I'm not so sure I'll be able to.

The first sweater - the Tangled Yoke Cardigan - has been completed and worn several times, I just need to get photos now.

This sweater seemed to take forever, especially the yoke cable rows, but it was an enjoyable knit as well. It's definately a new favorite!

I also started my February Sweater - a Noro Striped Vest. I started off alternting four rows of the Noro Silk Garden and Cascade 220.

I really didn't like how it was coming out and I hadn't added any waist shaping, so I ripped down to the ribbing and started again, doing two row stripes. I like it much better now.

I started a pair of socks in January and finished the first one. I still haven't cast on for the second.

These are the Dead Simple Lace Socks from Socks From The Toe Up by Wendy Johnson.

I also cast on for but did not get very far in my February pair - the Basket Weave Rib Socks from Sensational Knitted Socks.

So, March will be a month for finishing! I've also go my Gentleman's Shooting Stockings that have been on the needles since July of last year, and the February Lady Sweater that's almost done. I hope you all are having a great March - I'm so glad that all our snow has melted and the weather's finally warming up!

Re-Entry

2010-01-25T10:34:00.026-06:00

So it's been ages since I blogged. I'm going to try again, and see if I can keep it up this time!

I haven't been knitting as much as I used to. Mostly because I've had other activities with friends, my family, and I've also been exercising a lot more. And I must say, as much as I have to force myself to get on that treadmill every day, I sure feel better afterwards and am always glad I did it.

Anyways, since my last post, I've finished a few more projects. The first, my DROPS Jacket.

Pattern: DROPS Jacket
Yarn: Rowan Rowanspun Aran, color Hardy, 4 skeins
Needles: US 9
Mods: Many! I did't want a swing cardigan as they look like a maternity top on me. So I cast on for the smallest size and increased up for the bust. I also made the sleeves a bit smaller. I made the collar according to the pattern, but didn't sew it down to the cardigan so I had a collar that laid down instead of a turtleneck collar.

I love how this sweater came out and have been wearing it often. I can't believe it only took 4 skeins of yarn - I've got 6 more skeins of the Rowanspun Aran for another project!

I participated in my first Mystery Knit-a-Long in October for the Through the Loops Mystery Sock. It was tons of fun, and I loved the pattern.

Pattern: TTL Mystery Sock 2009
Yarn: Malabrigo Sock, Persia, 1 skein
Needles: US 1
Mods: None

I really wanted something simple and midless to make in December and made another Noro Shawl.

Pattern: Simple Yet Effective Shawl
Yarn: Noro Silk Garden Sock, s258, 1 skein
Needles: US 4
Mods: None

I made a Tamarind Cowl for my Mom for Christmas:

Yarn: Malabrigo Worsted, 1 skein, Autumn
Needles: US 7
Mods: None

And I made a Jacques Cousteau hat for a friend for Christmas:

Yarn: Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino, 2 skeins, red
Needles: US 4
Mods: None

So there's my finished products lineup. See you guys next time - and stay warm!

The Noro Scarf & Socks

2009-10-13T17:47:00.025-05:00

Hi everyone! I hope you're all having a wonderful fall. It was cold and cloudy and sometimes rainy the past few days but today was beautiful and sunny.

The Noro Baby Cable Rib Socks are finished.

Pattern: Baby Cable Rib Socks from Sensational Knitted Socks by Charlene Schurch
Yarn: Noro Kureyon Sock, 1 skein, color s188
Needles: US 1

Another great pattern from Charlene Schurch, and I love love love this Noro colorway.

The Sunrise Socks for the Sock Knitters Anonymous Group on Ravelry are also finished.

Pattern: Sunrise Socks by Wendy Johnson
Yarn: Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock, 2 skeins, in Vera
Needles: US 1

I loved knitted these socks. The pattern is so simple and breaks up the pooling wonderfully. This was also the first time I've made toe-up socks with a heel flap instead of a short-row heel. It was very interesting to see it take shape.

This was my first time using Lorna's Laces yarn and I'll definately use the Shepherd Sock again. It was wonderfully soft and smooth to knit with.

Also, the Noro Scarf is finished.

Pattern: Noro Striped Scarf
Yarn: Noro Silk Garden, color 258, 2 skeins and color 211, 2 skeins
Needle: US 8

Scarves usually take me forever to finish - they just stretch on and on and on. But this was finished in literally 7 days. Noro rules!

I would definately make one of these again!

In the WIP department, the back of the DROPS jacket has been finished (except for the shoulder shaping) and the left front is also finished and the right front is about half done.

I started a Heather Hoodie Vest in Cascade Ecological Wool.

The Gentleman's Shooting Stockings are progressing quite slowly but surely.

And I'm having lots of fun with the Through the Loops Mystery Sock KAL. I'm using Malabrigo Sock in Persia.

Entomology Mittens

2009-09-23T14:43:00.019-05:00

The Entomology Mittens are finished!

Pattern: Entomogloy Mittens, by Adrian Bizilia, from Knitalong
Yarn: Cascade 220, 1 skein color 2425 (orange) and 1 skein handdyed at my LYS
Needles: US 1 & 3
Mods: None

I really enjoyed knitting these mittens. I started them in February and they got put aside a couple times while I worked on other projects, but they are finally finished!

This was my first time doing corrugated ribbing, and while it does take a little longer, it's very worth it. I can't wait to do it again, especially on a sweater.

In other knitting news, the Noro Striped Scarf is finished (fastest scarf ever for me!).

The Baby Cable Rib Socks were finished last night (I just have the kitchener the toe now).

I joined the Sock Knitters Anonymous group on Ravelry and have finished my first sock and started on the second of the pair for September.

The September options were to knit the Mystery Sock by Nancy Bush in yellow or any Wendy Johnson pattern in any yarn you chose. I really wanted to make the Nancy Bush sock, but I didn't have any yellow sock yarn in my stash. Since I had some Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock that had been in the stash for two years, I decided to make the Sunrise Socks with it.

I've also got a DROPS Jacket in progress:

And a February Lady Sweater.

Next time: two more Noro finished products. Just can't seem to stop knitting with the stuff :)

A Simple Knit

2009-09-14T14:00:00.015-05:00

A little bit after my last post I had to frog both Camellia and Buttercup. I tightened my gauge while working on the front of Camellia and it was much smaller than the back. For Buttercup, one of my skeins was a different dyelot than the others and while not glaringly noticeable, was enough to bother me. I was going to try to start again with them, but knew they probably wouldn't be finished until the end of this month or October and I have lots of fall knitting I'm itching to start! So I set them aside to pick up again next spring.

I wasn't feeling very enthusiastic about my knitting after frogging two sweaters, so a simple, mindless project sounded great. I'd had a skein of Noro Silk Garden Sock that I wanted to use for a Simple Yet Effective Shawl for a while, so I cast on for that project.

There's nothing like a simple pattern and Noro yarn to get me into my knitting again! I started the shawl on August 24 and finished on August 28.

I couldn't put this project down, and I can't wait to make another! This is an absolutely perfect simple, mindless project with beautiful results.

Pattern: Simple Yet Effective Shawl by Laura Chau
Yarn: Noro Silk Garden Sock, every bit of one skein, color s211
Needles: US 4
Mods: None

So, after reconciling with knitting again, I swatched for five sweaters. (yes, I've got big plans I'm not sure I'll be able to carry out!)

From left to right, they are:

Cascade Eco Wool for a Heather Hoodie Vest, Araucania Nature Wool for a February Lady Sweater, Rowan Rowanspun Aran for a DROPS Jacket, Rowan Felted Tweed for a Tangled Yoke Cardigan and Rowan 4 Ply Soft for an Apres Surf Hoodie.

See you next time with a fall projects post! Also, I finished the Entomology Mittens and they are blocking, so I'll have finished photos of those as well.

Summer

2009-08-17T10:24:00.038-05:00

I hope everyone's been having a good summer. Mine has been full and busy.

We started playing Ultimate Frisbee in June and haven't stopped since.

Then there was Vacation Bible School.

Church Softball Games.

And spending time with friends.

Of course, there's been knitting, as well.

I finished the Waffle Rib Socks in July.

Pattern: Waffle Rib Socks from Sensational Knitted Socks by Charlene Schurch
Yarn: Noro Kureyon Sock, color s180, 1 skein
Needles: US 1
Mods: None

I love all my Noro Socks, but this color scheme is going to be high on the favorites list.

Also, I finally finished the Somewhat Cowl.

Pattern: The Somewhat Cowl by Wendy Bernard
Yarn: Rowan 4 Ply Cotton, Blue Steel, a little over 5 skeins
Needles: US 3 & 4
Mods: Raised the neckline and shortened the sleeves.

I love the neckline on this sweater and am very happy with how it came out overall. I kind of wish I would have made it a little longer, but I don't want to rip out the ribbing to do so.

Lastly, I finished the Shetland Triangle.

Pattern: Shetland Triangle from Wrap Style
Yarn: Blue Sky Alpacas Alpaca & Silk, Peapod, 4 skeins
Needles: US 9
Mods: Used a sportweight yarn instead of laceweight, larger needles, and 10 pattern repeats instead of 8.

I absolutely love it! The pattern was easy to memorize (my first time memorizing a lace pattern!), fun, and quick. I'd recommend it to any knitter.

And, in the WIP department, I finished the first Entomology Mitten and have completed about 4 whole rows on the second :).

I've started two pairs of socks:

Baby Cable Ribs from Sensational Knitted Socks in Noro Kureyon Sock.

Gentleman's Shooting Stockings from Knitting Vintage Socks.

I also started two sweaters.

The back is finished and the front is almost finished on my Camellia. I'm really enjoying this pattern.

I've also reached the sleeve separating row on Buttercup.

So, my blog is finally up to date! I hope you all have a great week!

The WIP Post

2009-05-08T09:22:00.020-05:00

So last time I blogged I said I'd write about my WIP's. I've some to show you and also an FO.

It seems that socks are the only thing I'm finishing regularly right now. Here's my 5th pair this year.

Pattern: Diagonal Cross Rib Socks from Favorite Socks
Yarn: Brown Sheep Wildfoote Sock, 2 skeins, color sy-27, Pine
Needles: US 1 & 2
Modifications: Went down a needle size to fit a woman's foot.

When I first started these socks in February, I made the cuff and then lost interest and set them aside. I picked them up again in April, and once I got into a rhythm with them enjoyed the pattern a lot, especially since a cable needle is not needed!

The Wildfoote Yarn is great to work with, and I love how the socks fit. Another keeper!

In the UFO pile, first up, I'm almost done with my 4th sweater for the year, Wendy Bernard's Somewhat Cowl.

I just need to pick up the neckline ribbing and finish the sleeves.

I've also been working on another pair of socks in Noro Kureyon Sock.

These are the Waffle Rib Socks from Sensational Knitted Socks by Charlene Schurch. I'm working on the leg of the second sock.

And, lastly, a pair of mittens that hasn't received much attention. I love how the colors are coming together, and hope to finish them by the end of the summer.

Double Moss Stich Socks

2009-04-28T10:19:00.006-05:00

Pattern: Double Moss Socks from Sensational Knitted Socks by Charlene Schurch
Yarn: Noro Silk Garden Sock, 1 skein, color s84
Needles: US 1
Mods: Worked an Eye-of-Partridge Heel

I love these socks! This was my first time working with the Silk Garden Sock, and I'll definately use it again. The depth of the colors is amazing.

The only thing with this yarn is that it has less yardage than the Kureyon Sock. I barely had any yarn left at the end, and I made the foot of the second sock a little smaller than the first. So next time I'll make the leg a little shorter.

See you next time with my current WIP's.

Mockery Socks

2009-04-09T14:08:00.009-05:00

Pattern: Mockery Socks
Yarn: Malabrigo Sock, 1 skein, in Ochre
Needles: US 1
Mods: None

This was one of the pattern knitalongs for the Malabrigo March group on Ravelry. I didn't finish my socks until April 5th - it took me exactly one month to finish. I really enjoyed this pattern. The cables are very subtle due to the fact that they are created using yarnovers and k2tog - a cable needles is never used (yay!). The socks are worked over 70 stitches instead of the 64 I'm used to. As you can see in the photo, they're a bit baggy around the ankles, so I think I'll try to stick to a 64 stitch sock in the future.

This was my first time working with Malabrigo Sock, and I know I'll be using it again. It's a little thinner than other sock yarns (it would work great for a shawl), but it's also very soft. And, of course the colors are beautiful.

Tree Jacket - Finished!

2009-04-01T17:51:00.012-06:00

Pattern: Tree Jacket by ZephyrStyle
Yarn: Reynolds Soft Linen, 13 skeins
Needles: US 7 (4.5mm)
Modifications: None

This was a great pattern. Like any top-down pattern, it was quite quick and easy. The yarn was great to work with also. I was using it at first for the Dollar-and-a-Half Cardigan, but it came out horribly (all my fault) and I frogged it.

I started the sweater with size 8 needles but it was coming out way too loose, so I started over at the raglan increases with size 7's. The sleeves are a bit loose, but they're also quite comfortable, and the sweater is warm and light enough for the 50 degree weather we've been having.

Just a little sleeve bokeh for you.

FO: Ariann

2009-03-20T09:00:00.008-06:00

Ariann is finished. And I'm sure she'll be a favorite.

Pattern: Ariann by Bonnie Marie Burns
Yarn: Cascade 220, color 4008, 5 skeins
Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) & US 7 (4.5mm)
Mods: Lengthened the body by about 2", worked buttonholes every 3".
Ravel It!

I started this sweater in late January, and then got sidetracked with other projects. I just wasn't feeling very enthusiastic about it, but after finishing a couple of other projects, I picked her up again. And I'm so glad I did.

The pattern was enjoyable and the two-row lace repeat was very easy to memorize. The seamless construction is a huge plus, and it was just plain fun to work on. I love the garter stitch collar on it as well.

I think I'll probably be making another one of these - my Mom asked for one after seeing mine:)

Hope you all have a great weekend.

WIP Wednesday

2009-03-18T11:36:00.010-06:00

When I first started blogging I used to blog about my WIP's every Wednesday. I somehow stopped doing that, but hopefully this will be the beginning of my doing it again.

So, about 6 weeks ago I contracted a case of startitis. And I currently have six projects on the needles, four of which I'm trying to work on regularly.

First up, ZephyrStyle's Tree Jacket.

I'm using Reynold's Soft Linen that I frogged from my failed Dollar-and-a-Half Cardigan. It's coming along really well so far - I should be able to put the sleeve stitches on holders tonight.

I'm also working on a pair of Mockery Socks for the Malabrigo March group on Ravelry.

I'm using Malabrigo Sock in Ochre, and it is soooo soft! I think it's probably one of the softest yarns I've worked with.

For my mindless knit, I've got a pair of Double Moss Stich Socks from Sensational Knitted Socks going in som Silk Garden Sock.

I'm loving this yarn, too.

And, a knit that I haven't worked on for a while, the Diagonal Cross Rib Socks from Favorite Socks in Brown Sheep Wildfoote.

I'm hoping to finish them in time for the Earth Phase of Project Spectrum.

Hope you all have a great Wednesday.

Vest-uary...and Socks

2009-03-10T09:23:00.007-06:00

March is finally here! The weather's getting warmer, and we can tell spring is finally coming!

I joined the Vest-uary group over on Ravelry last month, and was able to complete my vest in just 12 days. Yay for no sleeves! I used the Leftovers vest pattern from Knitty, and several leftover worsted weight yarns. I'm not sure about it though - I feel a little wacky and clownish when I wear it.

Pattern: Leftovers from Knitty, Winter 2004
Yarn: Leftover worsted weight wool, mostly Cascade 220. The ribbing is Reynold's Soft Linen held double.
Needles: US 7 (4.5mm) & US 8 (5.0 mm)
Mods: Lengthened the body to 15", short-rowed the shoulders.

If I were to make it again, I'd probably try to come up with a pattern for the stripes instead of just randomly choosing them, and use fewer colors. But, maybe this is fine. I love Kristen's Staccato Hoodies, after all. Oh, and please ignore the weird face I'm making in the above photo. My sister and I need to work on timing photos better :)

I also made a pair of socks last month out of (what else!) Noro:)

Pattern: Garter Rib Socks from Sensational Knitted Socks by Charlene Schurch
Yarn: Noro Kureyon Sock, 1 skein, color s185
Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)

And, I was given my first award! Thanks Beate!

I'm going to pass this on to:

Octopus Knits
Sam at Sticks, Strings & Crafty Things
Amanda at Jolie House
and
Hilary at The Yarniad

January Knits

2009-02-09T17:46:00.012-06:00

Finally, getting caught up with my blogging! Here are the projects I finished last month.

Pattern: Dashing, by Cheryl Niamath from Knitty, Spring 2007
Yarn: Cascade 220, 1 skein
Needles: US 7/4.5mm
Ravelry Link

Pattern: Toasty by Leslie Friend
Yarn: Cascade 220, 1 skein
Needles: US 7/4.5mm
Ravelry Link

Pattern: Evangeline, by Michelle Szeghalmi
Yarn: Cascade 220, The Heathers, 1 skein
Needles: US 7/4.5 mm
Ravelry Link

I made these three pair of mitts for the NaKniMitMo knitalong on Ravelry. They were a lot of fun (so quick!) and were also stashbusting projects.

My favorite project for January was the Flower Basket Shawl.

Pattern: Flower Basket Shawl by Evelyn Clark from Interweave Knits Fall 2004
Yarn: Elsebeth Lavold Silky Wool, color 32, 3 skeins
Needles: US 10/6.0 mm
Ravelry Link

I discovered that I love knitting lace with sport/dk weight yarn and large needles. It goes very quickly, and I didn't need to put in a lifeline. I really enjoy wearing this shawl and can't wait to cast on for my next one - the Shetland Triangle.

Cabled Spiral Pullover

2009-02-04T18:44:00.005-06:00

So I'm finally getting around to blogging about my NaKniSweMo Sweater. It was finished on December 6th. I've worn it quite a bit - it's now one of my favorite sweaters.

Pattern: Cabled Spiral Pullover from Knitting Nature by Norah Gaughan
Yarn: Rowanspun DK, mist, about 5-1/3 skeins
Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm)
Modifications: Added waist shaping.

This was a great pattern, very easy to follow and of course, yoked sweaters are always enjoyable. The yarn was pretty good. I discovered during seaming though that it's also very delicate - if you pull too hard it will break. I have to be careful taking it off to not snap the seams (yes, I did that the first time I took it off!). Overall, this is a great sweater and I'm very happy with it.

The Rest of My 2008 Knitting

2009-01-20T19:10:00.008-06:00

Here are the other three projects I finished in December.

Pattern: Oak Ribbed Socks from Knitting Vintage Socks by Nancy Bush
Yarn: Noro Kureyon Sock, color s219, 1 skein
Needles US 1/2.25 mm
Mods: None

Pattern: Rib and Cable Socks from Interweave Knits Fall 2005, by Nancy Bush
Yarn: Noro Kureyon Sock, color s182, 1 skein
Needles: US 1/2.25 mm
Mods: None

Pattern: Bird-In-Hand Mittens by Kate Gilbert
Yarn: Cascade 220, color 9404 (red) and color 8010 (cream), 1 skein each
Needles: US 1/2.25 mm
Mods: None

And one more photo of the mittens, because I like them so much.

Happy New Year

2009-01-15T12:44:00.016-06:00

Happy Belated 2009! I hope you all had a great Holiday Season.

I just wrote a very large post of the projects I finished last year, and was informed of an error when I went to publish it. I hadn't saved it, so I lost the whole thing! I've got to remember to save my posts in the future!

So, instead of doing one huge post, I'll post the projects one at a time:)

Here's the first project I finished in December, the Babette Blanket.

I started this project in March of 2008, and then got sidetracked over the summer. I pulled it out again in November and was able to finish it before Christmas. It was a lot of fun, and best of all, I didn't buy any yarn for it! It was made completely out of leftover yarns and single balls I had laying around.

Pattern: Babette Blanket by Kathy Merrick
Yarn: Worsted/Aran Weight Leftovers: Cascade 220, Brown Sheep Lamb's Pride Worsted, Karabella Aurora 8, Malabrigo Worsted, Plymouth Galway, Noro Kureyon, Araucania Nature Wool and more.
Hook: 4.0 mm (G)
Mods: Used Worsted instead of Fingering Weight Yarn
Ravel It!

FO: Noro Striped Socks

2008-12-02T18:36:00.006-06:00

They're finished! Actually, I finished them November 23rd, but have neglected blogging about them.

Here's the specs:

Yarn: Noro Kureyon Sock, color s164, about 3/4 of a skein
Pattern: Wendy's Fingering Weight Toe-Up Socks with Gusset Heel
Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm)
Mods: None!

I really enjoyed knitting these socks and it's going to be hard to give them away (they're a gift). But I have enough yarn left over for a pair for myself. And no, I didn't find a way to stretch the yarn :) I used the yarn leftover from these socks plus a new ball for this pair.

Next up, my NaKniSweMo sweater. I didn't manage to finish it by the end of the month, but it's almost done and I hope to block it later this week.

Interweave Knits Winter 2008

2008-11-21T16:22:00.003-06:00

Yay, it's out! There are several patterns I like in this issue. The new issue of Twist Collective is pretty great, too.

Pre-Blog Sweater: Ribby Cardi

2008-11-20T22:39:00.002-06:00

This is the Ribby Cardi from Chic Knits. I made it about a year ago using Cascade 220 tweed. It's very warm, but did not receive much wear last year. I've worn it once this year, and I think it'll get more wear this year than last. It was a great, fast and easy pattern. I'd recommend it to anyone.

Wheat Ear Cable Yoke Sweater

2008-11-19T22:15:00.005-06:00

I've been taking photos of several pre-blog projects for Ravelry. I'm glad of that now, because they make excellent blogging material when you didn't take photos on a particular day, and you want to blog.

This is my Wheat-Ear Cable Yoke Sweater designed by Pam Allen from Interweave Knits Summer 2007. (Ravelry Link Here.) This was one of my favorite sweaters last year, and I'm sure I'll be wearing it a lot this winter as well.

Trying Again

2008-11-18T19:24:00.003-06:00

Well, I missed a few days there. I hope I can blog every day for the rest of this month!

I finished the sleeves for my Cabled Spiral Pullover and have started the front and back. I'm knitting them both at the same time flat as the pattern states. I took the photo above last week and have made more progress since then. This was at the end of the first ball of Rowanspun DK. I was able to get a sleeve and 2-1/2" of the front from it - great yardage!

Halfway There

2008-11-13T19:05:00.003-06:00

I finished the first of my Noro Striped Socks a couple days ago. I think it's one of the neatest things I've made so far. Can't wait to finish the pair.

Third Norovember Project

2008-11-12T22:05:00.002-06:00

I'm enjoying Norovember and knitting with Noro Kureyon Sock quite a bit. This is my third pair of socks, the Oak Ribbed Socks from Knitting Vintage Socks by Nancy Bush.

Anxious...

2008-11-11T20:04:00.003-06:00

...to cast on for my February Lady Sweater. I've swatched for three sweaters, but I just might cast on for this one first - after I've finished the Cable Spiral Pullover and Dollar-and-a-Half Cardigan! Knitting Decisions!

This is Araucania Nature Wool, one of my favorites. The colors are beautiful, the yarn is great to work with, lots of yardage (242 yards!) and a great price - how can you beat that?

Rib and Cable Socks

2008-11-10T17:06:00.003-06:00

Here's my second Norovember project, the Rib and Cable Socks from Favorite Socks by Nancy Bush. I'm using Noro Kureyon Sock in color s182.

Norovember

2008-11-09T18:18:00.004-06:00

Besides being NaKniSweMo, this month is also Norovember.

Like many others, I enjoy knitting with Noro yarns, especially their sock yarns. So, I've cast on for some socks.

These are Wendy's Fingering Weight, Toe-Up Socks with Gusset Heel. I'm making them striped using a new ball of Kureyon Sock in color s164, and the leftover ball from these socks. I'm enjoying them quite a bit.

Sleeves

2008-11-08T17:02:00.004-06:00

After I finished my Veste Everest there was some time before NaKniSweMo, so I cast on for the Dollar-and-a-Half Cardigan. I read on a blog a while ago about knitting two sleeves at one time on a circular needle to avoid second sleeve syndrome. After reading that, I've always cast on for the sleeves first when I'm making a sweater, and it really does help the sweater to at least feel like it's going faster.

I was able to finish the sleeves for the Dollar-and-a-Half Cardigan on October 31st.

I then cast on for the sleeves of my NaKniSweMo sweater, the Cabled Spiral Pullover by Norah Gaughan from Knitting Nature.

I'm using Rowanspun DK in Mist. I'm used to knitting with worsted weight yarn, so this is going a little slower than usual. Hopefully I'll finish the sleeves this weekend.

The Socks That Wouldn't End

2008-11-07T10:39:00.005-06:00

Pattern: Universal Toe-Up Sock Pattern from Vogue Knitting The Ultimate Sock Book
Yarn: Regia Bamboo Color, color 19745, 2 skeins
Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)
Modifications: None

I started these socks in April. Because of the very dull 1 x 1 ribbing on most of the sock, coupled with the fact that I wasn't really enjoying the yarn, itt took a while for me to finish the first one and even longer to finish the second one. I'm so glad to be done with this pair!

Have a great Friday!

FO: Veste Everest

2008-11-06T18:55:00.006-06:00

Pattern: Veste Everest by Veronik Avery from Interweave Knits Fall 2005
Yarn: Cascade 220, The Heathers, Color 2437, 4.25 skeins
Needles: US 4 & 6
Ravel It!

Modifications: I made the bottom ribbing 1-1/2" and added about 3" to the length of the vest. I also knit it in the round up to the armholes.

This was a very enjoyable pattern, and not having any sleeves to knit made it go by very quickly. I really enjoyed using this heathered shade of Cascade 220, also.

So, you know I haven't been blogging very regularly. This month is NaBloPoMo, and, even though I missed the first five days, I hope to blog every day for the rest of this month. See you tomorrow!

FO: Equinox Yoke Pullover

2008-11-01T11:26:00.008-06:00

It's finished! And I love how it turned out.

I've wanted to make this sweater since seeing it on the cover of Interweave Knits Fall 2006.

And, even though I look like I feel so-so about this sweater in the above photo, let me assure you I do not. I just am able to make some weird faces in photos at times.

So, the details:

Pattern: Equinox Yoke Pullover by Michele Rose Orne from Interweave Knits Fall 2006
Yarn: Cascade 220 Wool - Color 3462, purple, 4 skeins, and one skein each of 8884 (dark burgundy), 4147B (pale yellow), 8401 (medium gray-green heather), 7829 (medium red), 7824 (orange red), 8400 (dark gray-brown heather), 8010 (light tan heather), 2453 (red-brown heather), Berocco Ultra Alpaca 6275
Needles: US 6 & US 4

So, modifications. I knit the sleeves in the round, and cast on eight less stitches than specified in the pattern (they were coming out huge). I also knit the sweater in the round, using the instructions for holding the underarm stitches from the Cactus Blossom Pullover in Knitscene Fall 2007. I did a few extra decreases at the neck because the neckline was a little wide for my taste.

I hope you all have a gret weekend! I'll be casting on for my Norovember & NaKniSweMo projects - more on that next time :)

On Taking Notes

2008-10-18T18:49:00.005-05:00

I'm not so good at taking notes for my knitting projects. But I think I have some motivation to take better notes now.

top row, l - r: cascade 220 the heathers for a veste everest, cascade 220 for an ariann, rowan felted tweed for a tangled yoke cardigan.
bottom row, l - r: rowan 4-ply soft for an apres surf hoodie, rowanspun dk for a cabled spiral pullover and reynolds soft linen for a $1.50 cardigan

These are swatches for five sweaters and a vest that I knitted about 4 or 5 weeks ago. I though for sure I would remember if I had to go up or down needle sizes for the swatches, but I forgot what I had done for a couple of them. Thankfully, I did remember what sizes I had used and I won't have to knit the swatches again, but from now on I hope to take better notes!

On another note, fall is here to stay (I think!) and I've finished the Equinox Yoke Pullover. I hope to have the photo shoot this week.

And, I've started the Veste Everest. It's quite a bit further along than in this photo, and I hope to finish it this weekend.

Hope you're all enjoying the fall weather!

A Finished Project and Some New Ones, Too

2008-10-04T10:41:00.012-05:00

I finished a pair of socks a few weeks ago that I never blogged about.

This is my second pair of socks with Noro Kureyon Sock and I'm sure it won't be the last. After having to frog my Meida's Socks, I just wasn't into the sock knitting for a while. But the Kureyon Sock took care of that.

I made a ribbed sock this time instead of plain stockinette. I'm a tight knitter, and the last stockinette pair I made is a bit tight on my foot - I have to do some coaxing to get the sock over my heel. To those of you who make plain stockinette socks, is this just how they are, or do I need to go up a needle size?

Pattern: Madder Ribbed Socks from Knitting Vintage Socks by Nancy Bush
Yarn: Noro Kureyon Sock, 1 skein, color S95
Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm)

I also started some new projects.

First, the Flower Basket Shawl in Elsebeth Lavold Silky Wool.

I finished the first Bird-In-Hand Mitten:

I've started the second mitten, but I've only done a few inches of it.

I started the second toe-up sock of the pair that I started in April, which I've just turned the heel on.

I decided to try the Meida's Socks again, this time knitting a little looser and on US 2 needles instead of US 1's.

And, the project that I've put everything aside to work on, the Equinox Yoke Pullover.

Both sleeves and body have been completed and joined, and I'm working on the colorwork part of the yoke now. I'm hoping to finish it this weekend. It's going pretty quickly and it's so much fun to work on a fall sweater again.

I've got a few more thins that didn't make it into this already long post that I'll save for next time. I think I'm finally getting back into a blogging rhythm!

Josephine Top

2008-09-30T18:57:00.009-05:00

I finished the Josephine Top, and I've worn it quite a bit.

This is the first time I've made a garment on size 4 needles, and I really like the thinner material you get with the thinner yarn. The Karabella Vintage Cotton was really nice to knit with, too - soft and silky. Definately a cotton I'd use again.

I finished the front and back, and then let them sit for a couple weeks before doing the finishing. I wish I would have done it right away - I could have worn it a few more times when the weather was warmer. We had our first real fall day today - I don't think it got above 65 degrees - and it's soooo nice! Almost cold enough to wear fall sweaters.

Here's the Specs:

Pattern: Josephine Top from Interweave Knits Summer 2007
Yarn: Karabella Vintage Cotton, color 320, 6 balls.
Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm)
Modifications: The empire and a-line top styles do not look good on me so I made changes for the fit. I cast on the number of stitches required for the 36" bust, and increased to the number required for the 40" bust when I got to the bodice. I also continued the textured lace pattern to the armholes, and switched to the textured purl stitch pattern just before I began the armhole shaping. I was hoping this would work out well, and I'm so glad it did.

And, here's one more photo - thanks to my sister Priscilla for doing the photo shoot with me.

Fall Knitting

2008-08-25T17:19:00.009-05:00

I like fall so much, and I always look forward to fall knitting, also. There's so many great patterns and yarns, and I'm beginning to want to cast on for several projects at once.

So, I created a mosaic of some of the projects I'd like to knit.

For details, click here.

Yeah, I think I'd need about three times as much time as I have to knit all that. Or maybe four times as much. At least I've got lots to choose from! I'll be starting on the Equinox Yoke Pullover first. Here's the yarn, all wound and ready to go.

I've actually made my swatch and just need to block it now. And in other knitting news, the front and back of the Josephine Top are finally finished, and I hope to do the sleeves tonight.

I've also added another panel to the Babette Blanket - just one more to go!

I had to frog my Meida's Sock because I couldn't get the leg on past my heel - it was too tight. I've always been a tight knitter, so I guess this is a reminder to loosen up a bit.

I'm not sure if I'll try the Meida's with this yarn again, maybe I'll make another pair of Waving Lace Socks.

Hopefully I'll have a finished Josephine Top for next time!

Hi There

2008-08-13T19:32:00.007-05:00

Back again, after another long abscence. I've really got to post more regularly:)

My main project lately has been the Josephine Top from Interweave Knits Summer 2007. I finished the back:

And started the front:

This photo's a little old - I'm just finishing the lace portion and will be starting the bodice portion. I was hoping to have the top finished in time for the vacation my Mom, sisters and I were on in California, but it didn't work out, plus, I was a little distracted helping my sister Anna knit a couple toys for some freinds' children that we visited.

This is the only photo I have of either one. I wish I would have gotten a photo of the monkey after his face was embroidered and of the snake that came out so well.

See you next time! I'm looking forward to starting my fall knitting, so I'll be writing about that.

Moving to Blogger

2008-07-18T17:56:00.007-05:00

Well, I've decided to move my blog over here to blogger. I hope I like this better than Wordpress.

So I said I'd blog about my cowls on my next post.

I've made three cowls so far and plan on making at least two more. They're really perfect, warm and cozy (funny to write that during summer!) and they are so fast!

So here's my first cowl. I think I cast on about 100 stitches on a size 6 US circular needle (16" cable). I did seed stitch for the first and last five rows. The yarn is Kathmandu DK Tweed, which I really enjoyed working with and hope to use again. It has a very rustic, tweedy feel to it.

I knit my second cowl out of the leftovers of my Chevron Scarf. I cast on 120 stitches onto a US 6 circular needle (16" cable) and followed the pattern for the Chevron Scarf in Last Minute Knitted Gifts. The only change you will have to make is to do three rows of knitting after the pattern round instead of one knit, one purl, one knit round.

And, here's a modeled shot.

My third cowl was made out of Auracania Nature Wool Chunky. This is the roomiest cowl and my favorite of all three in regards to it's fit. I knit the first few inches on US 10 circular needles, then switched to 9's for about an inch-and-a-half, and finished the cowl on size 8's. I was trying to shape the cowl, and i did a little, but it's not what I was aiming for. It still fits and looks great, though. I think I cast on about 94 stitches for this one and once again knitted in seed stitch for the first and last five rows.

I hope you all have a great weekend!