Insanity.

That's the name of the game these days, but the reasons are sooo exciting! A new website and blog are nearly close to completion (thanks to the AMAZING work by Heather of Design Rox), knitting projects are in progress (as always), business plans are in full force, AND, of course, I have new pattern releases. Basically, 2012 is set to be an exciting year for you as I come up with discounts and sales, exciting and beautiful knitwear designs, and lots of ways to keep you up to date on my hullabaloo.

So, stay tuned in early Jan for all the debuts!

In the meantime, if you are in a pattern buying mood, be sure to check out two hot-off-the-presses designs that I've published with Knit Picks.

Iris Pullover

$3.99

 

This pullover features beautiful texture, shape, and fit. With a simple cable pattern as the focal point in the front and lusciously soft yarn, Iris is sure to be your favorite sweater.

Skill Level: Intermediate

Sizes:

Women’s size XS (S, M, L, XL, 2X, 3X) – Instructions are given in the smallest size, with larger sizes in parentheses. When only one number is given, it applies to all sizes.

Finished Measurements:

Bust: 33 ½ (36 ¼, 40 ¼, 44 ¼, 47 ¼, 52 ¼, 53 ¾)”

Show in size 36 ¾”

Intended to fit with 1 ¾ to 2 ¼” positive ease.

Suggested Yarn:

9 (10, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 14) balls Knit Picks Capra DK (123 yds / 112 m per 1.75 oz / 50 g ball; 85% merino wool, 15% cashmere) in Velveteen

Needles:

Size 6 US (4 mm) needles

Size 6 US (4 mm) circular needle, 16” long

Adjust needle size if necessary to obtain correct finished gauge.

Notions:

Cable needle, tapestry needle

Finished Gauge:

24 sts and 36 rows = 4” / 10 cm in Slip St Patt

Check gauge to save time and guarantee an accurate size.

Pattern Notes:

To be able to knit this pullover, you should be able (or ready to learn) to follow simultaneous shaping instructions, decrease, measure armhole depth, pick up stitches, and seam pieces together.

Mindful Steps

$1.99

The path we each walk in life is never easy, often crossed with obstacles, choices, joy, and tears. Yet, these socks, with an intriguing cross-over stitch and simple ribbing, enable our feet to be cozy, warm, and protected as we take the steps forward—mindfully. You’ll enjoy working these top-down socks as much as you will wearing them.

Skill Level: Intermediate

Finished Measurements:

Foot Circumference: 7 (8 ½, 9 ½)”

Shown in size 8 ½”

Instructions are given in the smallest size, with larger sizes in parentheses. When only one number is given, it applies to all sizes.

Suggested Yarn:

1 (1, 2) skein(s) Knit Picks Stroll Tonal (462 yds / 421 m per 3.5 oz / 100 g ball; 75% superwash merino wool, 25% nylon) in Springtime Tonal

Needles:

Size 2 US (2.75 mm) double-pointed needles (dpns); set of 4

Adjust needle size if necessary to obtain correct finished gauge.

Notions:

Cable needle (optional), tapestry needle

Finished Gauge:

8 sts and 12 rows = 1” / 2.5 cm in Stockinette st

Happy Knitting, my friends!

Coming Soon

Coming Soon.... my own attempt at a self-published e-booklet collection (and possibly via MagCloud for print distribution). Sometimes, I get myself into these things and the only way out is to see yourself though. Exciting, terrifying... but, best of all, an amazing collection that I am SURE you are going to love. I'll keep you up to date on the release date. Not too long now!

Twist Collective, Winter Issue!

I haven't posted in eons, but for a good reason, I promise! Lots of fun projects in the works, including a collection that you will want to get your hands on... wink.


While you eagerly await said news (I know you ARE eager, aren't you?), check out the latest issue of Twist Collective! You are going to be awed by the amazing talent that shines through the pages. Jaina by Thayer Preece? Consider me awed. Zosia by Marnie MacClean reduces me to a puddle of envy.

Can you believe I get to be a part of this collection?
Blush.
I hope you enjoy Okame as much as I do!

Okame

Photo by Jamie Dixon - Courtesy of Twist Collective

Finished measurements:
Bust, buttoned: 31 ¼ (35, 39 ¾, 43, 46 ¾, 52 ½, 53)" / 79.5 (89, 101, 109, 118.5, 133.5, 134.5) cm
Shown in size 35" / 89 cm
Intended to fit with 1–2" / 2.5–5 cm positive ease.

Yarn:
8 (8, 9, 10, 11, 12) skeins Kollage Yarns Lofty (117 yds / 107 m per 3 ½ oz / 100 g skein; 100% Merino Wool) in #8005 Seaport

Needles & Notions:
Size 10 US / 6 mm needles
Size 10 US / 6 mm circular needle, 32" / 80 cm long

Size J-10 US / 6 mm crochet hook, cable needle, tapestry needle, two toggle buttons 1 5/8" / 41 mm long

Gauge:
14 sts and 22 rows = 4" / 10 cm in Stockinette stitch
 15 sts and 28 rows = 4" / 10 cm in garter stitch

Construction Notes: This fitted cardigan is worked in pieces from the bottom up and sewn together. It features a wide cabled panel on the body and the sleeves, which is give in chart form only. The broad garter stitch collar is worked from stitches picked up along the front and neck edges.

For the Photographers!

I don't stalk many people (TOO many, at least), but this one photographer, Christina Greve, is just too amazing to ignore.

 

www.divasanddreams-academy.com

If you get the chance and want to hone your skills, sign up for her boot camp. I'm going to try to WIN! Whheeee!

The Joys and Woes of Fisherman's Rib

The Fisherman's Rib is an interesting stitch that provides a unique challenge to many intermediate knitters. Knitting into the stitch below the one already on the needle seems a wee bit counter-intuitive. The worst part, though, is that tinking, or undoing the Fisherman's Rib can easily be a nightmare. Trust me. Been there and done aaaaaaall that. But, it is totally worth it - this particular stitch pattern creates a beautiful lofty fabric that suits a large variety of projects.

I just wrapped up a class at Recycled Lamb teaching my design, Elderberry Cardigan, and the students all clamored for instruction on tinking the fisherman's rib. Seeing the need, I decided to make a quick video showing how to work and how to un-do that stitch. Enjoy!

Tour de Fleece Day 7

I've been keeping myself pretty dang busy lately, including stripping down and re-painting a new desk!

Doesn't it look lovely? Almost like a real designer's work studio.
But, of course, I've been spinning yarn like there is no tomorrow. I'm especially proud of how Ellie's Rainbow turned out (Dyed by Kim of WSK)

Tomorrow, Day 8 of the Tour de Fleece 2011 will be spent working on a little WSK beauty called 'Cabo.' Check back for pics tomorrow.

TdF Day 5

I got a stunning yarn in the mail today for secret project #2! Seriously drooling. I can't share any more than that, but at least you can drool over the results of today's TdF.

TdF Day 4

Day 4 was spent doing too much eating (not a bad thing, mind you) and getting lots of knitting done. But, I managed to squeeze in a bit of spinning, too. By far, the best challenge I have ever participated in! :)

TdF Day 3

I didn't spin as much as I would have liked today, but I DO have one finished yarn in hand.
Here's a better view of that yummy-ness!

Not too shabby, eh?

Tour de Fleece Day 2

On to Day 2 - I took that yummy fiber and started 2-plying it today....

Tour de Fleece Day 1

It's the start off line of the Tour de Fleece and I'm hitting the road running. LOL

And all the while, working on secret design projects!

Elinor Dashwood

I love this design and I am excited to be able to share it with you! While originally published in Tangled this past Winter, I think it makes a fabulous spring/summer project. Classic Elite Princess and Lacy Alpaca combine beautifully together, resulting in a feminine piece that compliments any figure. I hope you enjoy it!

With a subtle herringbone lace panel traveling up the front body and delicate waist shaping, this pullover exudes a lovely ethereal feel. To enhance the softness, the cuffs and neckline are highlighted with a beautiful alpaca lace fiber. This sweater will delight your knitting hands, as well as your eye for fashion.

SKILL LEVEL: Intermediate
SIZES
Woman’s x-small (small, medium, large, extra large). Instructions are given for the smallest size with larger sizes in parenthesis. When only 1 number is given, it applies to all sizes. When a zero is used, no stitches are worked for that size.

FINISHED MEASUREMENTS
This is a close-fitting sweater, so choose the size that is within 3/4” - 1” larger than actual bust measurement.
Bust circumference: 33 (35, 39, 43, 47) inches
Length: 23 (23.25, 24.25, 25, 26) inches
Sweater shown measures 33” with an ease of 1” in circumference

YARN
Classic Elite Princess (40% merino wool, 28% rayon, 15% nylon, 10% cashmere, 7% angora; 150 yd [137]/1.75 [50 gm]; CYCA 3): #3403 Genteel Gray 5 (5, 6, 6, 7) balls (MC)
Classic Elite Silky Alpaca Lace (70% Alpaca, 30% Silk; 460 yd [420.5m]/1.75oz [50 gm]; CYCA 1): #2403, Cloud Gray, 1 ball (CC)

NEEDLES & NOTIONS
• Body and sleeves - US 6 (4mm) needle OR SIZE NEEDED TO OBTAIN GAUGE
• Trim – US Size 3 (3.25mm) needle
• Stitch holders (m)
• Tapestry Needle


$6.50


Thanks to Brittany Tyler for the beautiful photographs, to Classic Elite for the yarn support, and Tangled Magazine for the support and work!

The Tour de Fleece

The Tour de Fleece is fast approaching and I am totally signing up this year. Finally, my husband will take solace in the idea that biking and fiber CAN be united in solidarity. Won't he be thrilled?

I'll post shortly the fiber plans that I have in mind, so keep an eye out and join in!

I should be doing dishes...

But, I just have to show off my design inside Kristi Porter's new book "More Knitting in the Sun: 32 Patterns to Knit for Kids." Kristi was awesome to work with - she's sweet, imaginative, and wonderfully creative. The total compilation is fantastic!

My design, Lucy, is a fun, simple, and perfect to wear year round.

I hope you get a chance to explore the book!

Elderberry Cardigan - Public Release!

It's the official release of my ...

Elderberry Cardigan

 $6.50 

Elderberry Cardigan combines ‘classic’ and ‘simplicity’ into a definitive, lovely piece that will be a favorite year after year.

SKILL LEVEL: Intermediate

SIZES
Women’s size XS (S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL) – Instructions are given in the smallest size, with larger sizes in parentheses. When only one number is given, it applies to all sizes.

FINISHED MEASUREMENTS
This is a standard fitting cardigan, so choose the size that is 2 to 3 inches larger than actual bust measurement
Bust: 35.5 (38.5, 41.75, 46, 49, 54, 55)”
Length below armhole: 15.5 (15.5, 15.5, 16.5, 17, 17, 18)”
Cardigan shown measures 38.5” with an ease of 3” in circumference

WORKING GAUGE w/SAMPLE YARN
20.25 sts and 29 rows in 1x1 Rib, moderately stretched, with size 6 needles = 4 inches/10 cm

FINISHED GAUGE
19.25 sts and 30 rows in 1x1 Rib, moderately stretched, with size 6 needles = 4 inches/10 cm


To be able to knit this cardigan, you should be able (or ready to learn) to knit, purl, knit one stitch below (fisherman’s rib), follow simultaneous shaping instructions, decrease, measure armhole depth, pick up stitches, and seam pieces together.

 

My patterns include detailed instructions on gauge (both working and finished), the cable cast on, and a 5-st One-Row Buttonhole.

I think you will really enjoy the look, the feel, and the work up of this cardigan. I know *I* did!! I loved it so much that I am now making a mini-version for my (almost) 4yr old, so keep an eye out for the "Younger Berry Cardigan." (haha!)

I love Books

 I love getting new books and I think you'll enjoy these too.

More Knitting in the Sun: 32 Patterns to Knit for Kids

By Kristi Porter 

If you happen to glance at page 113 to the Lucy Top, you'll notice... ahem... my name! I'm quite honored to have a design included in the collection! 

Product Description

32 warm-weather knitting projects to make for kids

As a knitter and teacher in Southern California, author Kristi Porter knows well what warm-weather knitters want. Based on the success of her previous book, Knitting in the Sun: 32 Projects for Warm Weather, it's evident that patterns for warmer weather and warmer climate knitting are in demand.

This time Kristi focuses her knitting needles on warm weather patterns for children, bringing you a stunningly designed collection of projects and the same beautiful photography you enjoyed in Knitting in the Sun.

• 32 warm weather patterns for children sized 2-12
• Garments are designed to be comfortable to both knit and wear during warm weather
• Other title by Porter: Knitting in the Sun: 32 Projects for Warm Weather

If you enjoy knitting in the summer or live in a climate that is warm year-round, More Knitting in the Sun will keep your needles clicking until the wee hours of morning.

Curvy Crochet By Marlaina Bird and Jill Wright

I am SO not a crocheter, but I'm so psyched for two of my fabulous friends, Jill Wright (who happens to be my mentor, sounding board, devilish partner in some secret knitting adventures, and generally my wonderful gal pal), and Marlaina Bird (the energetic firestorm that is Marly is probably one of the cutest designers I know). They've partnered up to author this awesome booklet of crochet patterns!

Product Description

A collection of fashions designed in lightweight yarn specifically for full-figured women. The lighter yarn gives each garment a feminine, easy-wearing drape that is so flattering to generous curves. Also included are an elegant stole and a felted handbag. 8 projects for crochet: Cowl Neck Tunic, Peasant Top, Stole, Motif Bolero, Felted Handbag, A-Line Vest, Ribbed Waist Tunic, and Tie Back Tunic. Sizes large to 4X.

The Perfect Pillow! By Mary Beth Temple
And, another crochet book (a topic I really know nothing about) by my other mentor, Mary Beth Temple (she tolerates my constant harassment and is adorable to boot). If I DID crochet, I would definitely enjoy these beautiful projects.... hmmm... my mom knows how to crochet....

Product Description

The Perfect Pillow! (Leisure Arts #5243) is a collection of 10 stylish crochet pillows by Mary Beth Temple. The designs offer plenty of variety. Go for bold color or original texture. Try a lacy, vintage bolster or add buttons to a two-toned, contemporary look. Mary Beth shares her insights and inspirations on how she created each of the designs, and provides clear instructions so you can finish these fun projects beautifully. 10 pillows to crochet: 9 in light or medium weight yarns (Loop-De-Loop, Fresh Idea, Art Deco, Buttoned Up, All-A-Whirl, Bachelor's Buttons, Alfresco, Happy Patches, and Tempting Texture) and one in bedspread weight cotton thread (A Little Luxury bolster).

Coming Soon

The Elderberry Cardigan is going to be released in just a few days! I'm finishing up some pattern touch ups & such, but not much else to do. So, keep a look out this Thursday - it really is a great pattern that comes in 7 sizes.

I am also working on a mini version (The Youngerberry Cardigan AHAHAHA!) for girls, most likely sized for 18 months to 12.

And, coming up this Friday, Knit Night at the Recycled Lamb. Be there!

First Cover!

It sure has been a while, but you can't blame a girl who has been swamped with tons of knitting work. TNNA proved to be a fabulously good business decision. I imagine you will be seeing me, or rather my designs, in quite a few places this year!
On to something that I CAN share.....

I MADE MY FIRST COVER!!!

EEeeeee! I'm beyond giddy (truly, I think this level of giddiness is bad for my health).

I MADE MY FIRST COVER!!!
In the debut summer issue of Knitscene Magazine, you will find my Genesee Cardigan. It's so soft and comfy. So, go grab it! Quick! Quick!

© Knitscene

© Knitscene

My sweet husband has been so tolerate of my excitement. :)

Oh, if you happen to be near the Recycled Lamb Friday, April 15th, come knit with us and grab your copy. I'll be there from 6-8pm.