New Yarn & A Giveaway!

I was browsing around the yarn store a few months back and came across this gorgeous yarn from Berroco. As it hung on the wall, it instantly made me think of the sea with its blend of colors and wildlife....

I bought two skeins with the thought of making a small project - cowl? Hat? But, she hasn't spoken to me yet and I am, thus, stumped.

So, how about you join me in the first step of the design process and win a prize at the same time?

Leave a comment below telling me what I should make with this yarn and be entered to win a digital download of my Legato Shawl Pattern! You have until Wednesday morning, 9am MST, to share your thoughts. I'll make a random drawing around 10am, so check back here (this exact post) for the update! To boot, one lucky commenter may be randomly selected to win a copy of the finished pattern I make with it.... wink.

WINNER ANNOUNCED! Congratulations to Amy! I'll be emailing you soon with your free Legato Pattern! 

Deadlines!

I have NEVER missed a deadline ... until now. I started a baby blanket last month for my soon-to-be-arriving niece Eva, but then the darn girl had to actually be born on time and I am no where near done. You can blame all the paying gigs I've had (you won't see me complaining, though!). I think we have all been there, eh?

Miss Eva is absolutely precious and I cannot WAIT to meet her! She came out on her actual due date (just like my own daughter!) of May 14th. I am counting down the days until I can make it out to California for a visit!

 SO, while my blanket may not be finished, I console myself with the thought that a baby doesn't need a wool blanket during the summer months anyway. Whew! Gives me a little of leeway there.

 I'm using the lovely Berroco Ultra Alpaca (one of my favorite yarns and companies), with simple garter stitch and a pretty flecked eyelet pattern.

I *should* have this sweet blanket finished up before long, while Eva is still a wee babe, and then, because you know I can't resist, I am thinking of offering up the pattern for FREE to all of my fabulous friends out there.

Now, tell me about your current unfinished projects waiting around - I need to know I am not alone.

Yarn Thing Podcast

Yours truly was the guest of the Yarn Thing Podcast interview this past Tuesday! Marly sure has a way of making a gal feel giddy with excitement, so I was quite a bit nervous leading up to being "on air." Luckily, Marly is a born interviewer and made it feel as if we were chatting over a cup of coffee. Did you happen to catch it? If not, go back and give it a listen (as long as you promise not to laugh at me and my funny voice TOO much):

Click Here to Give it a Listen

 We chatted about how I got started designing and my new eBooklet "The Crescendo Collection." Marly is absolutely delightful - funny, generous with her compliments, and highly supportive. I'm lucky that she lives close enough to hang out with occasionally. But, the best news is that you have a chance to win a copy of my Crescendo Collection booklet!

Enter your special pass phrase (you DID listen, didn't you?) on either the Yarn Thing Rav Page or Marly Bird's Facebook page. Hurry, hurry! We'll be having the drawing in a few days!

I hope the interview inspires you to move forward with your dreams. Trust me - it is better to DO than it is to dream. And I am having TONS of fun doing it.

Consider this...

You can consider this my official announcement...

I have a BIG ol' project starting up and one that I am insanely crazy about. Think "Subversive Socks." A book filled with wonderfully, sassy subversive socks.

Now, normally, I am a quiet, unassuming kind of gal (wink, wink), so this type of project just might wig you out. Just a bit. But, oh, how exciting, too!

You see, I was once obsessed with socks, but soon, they all began to look the same. It was time for something bold and crazy to emerge. The ideas started pouring out and before you know it, I had enough to intrigue the folks over at Cooperative Press. End story? A fantastic book for 2013.

I am currently hunting for a few more designers to help round out the collection, so if you are interested in submitting a concept or two, keep reading...

Submission Themes: This is a book of socks that goes far beyond the mundane lace we’ve been playing with, pushing you out from behind the hats and baby blankets. And it is certainly not for the weak of heart. 

Check out my Pinterest Board for inspiration. 

I am looking for knit sock designs that invoke the inner bad-ass, that are bold and risqué, daring and sassy, and just downright raunchy.  Feel free to utilize lace, cables, fair-isle, and more to get your cheeky, independent point across. Explore new techniques and construction. Think powerful and brave. Think daring and in-your-face like the Roller Derby gals. Think about those favorite naughty words and phrases that your feet are itching to stomp out. Don’t be shy!

Level: Intermediate +

Deadline for Submissions: June 18, 2012

For more information on submitting, head on over to Ravelry for the submission guidelines.

Your Reference Section

I thought I would share a few little things floating around on my pages....

First is my "Errata" page. I loathe that I have one. But, it serves a noble purpose. It doesn't matter that you've had two tech editors and a few different copy editors review things, boo-boo's still happen. Not to mention, it gets annoying to customers to have to update patterns too frequently. So, the errata page is there for you and when I do make an update on a pattern version, I will note its changes there, as well.

Of course, I HOPE you see my newsletter signup. Until I can get my act together to create a Ravelry Group or a Facebook page, this is the best way to stay up to date on my designs, tester calls, subscriber-only discounts, and other fun tidbits.

And lastly, do explore my video tutorials. I have two - the Cable Cast-On and How to Untink Fisherman's Rib (that's a VERY helpful one!!). If there are videos you would like to see, let me know in the comments section... sometimes it is hard for me to know what beginners need.

For Fun

I thought I'd post a completely random photo that has nothing to do with knitting or fiber. But, it IS just as pretty!

I took my camera out to play while the flowers were blooming a few weeks back.

I started learning photography so I could take decent pictures of my knitwear designs - a purely utilitarian purpose. But, it became a fabulous obsession! I think I have read every photog book in the library, browsed the books at the store, and I continue to search incessantly on tutorials and videos online....

Tell me - what hobbies do YOU have outside of knitting?

Fave new thing!

I have friends in the knitwear design world who ask, "How in the world do you keep it all together?!"

Working the way we do, with varying deadlines, constant knitting, keeping track of submission due dates, contract knitters, yarn arrival, etc, etc, it certainly can get hectic. Add in the fact that I am a stay-at-home mom, first and foremost, with two kidlets who are constantly demanding my attention and a household that always needs tending and mending, and it can be exceedingly difficult to find balance. I recently found a planner that has helped LOADS and I believe that I have literally fallen deeply in love. Enough that I want to hunt down the designer to propose (though I don't think my current husband would find the humor in the situation).

The Life Planner is my {almost} all-in-one-keep-track-of-my-entire-life-so-i-don't-end-up-in-the-loony-bin planner. I've tried ipad calendars and excel trackers, but have discovered that paper, with its crisp clean texture, bright colors, and "reality" appeal, works loads better.

It comes with note pages, monthly calendars, special date calendars, and large weekly calendars. Not to mention tabs, pockets, free labels, page holder, and all while crafted to the perfect size for my small purse! And did I mention the STICKERS?!

I'm a color-coding sort of gal, so I write upcoming submission deadlines in blue, project deadlines in red, and personal appts in black. With all of the room in the weekly view, I also write my to-do list in pencil - things such as my daily knitting quota (I take a project, estimated how many rows to knit over a certain number of days and turn that into a target row count for every day), chores, errands, etc. I constantly jot down notes while I am out and about and collect business cards (they go in the handy zippered pocket).

This little bad boy stays with me at all times - when out, it hops into my purse and when I am home, it sits open on my counter to the current day. Now, I don't keep EVERYTHING in it. I am also a "list" girl, so I keep a notepad of lists - things I have submitted, pending payments, organizational goals, project goals, etc, etc. My "chore" list is from my Motivated Moms Chore Calendar on my ipad. I'll get into more of how I organize my day in another blog post soon, though. :)

If you love the beauty of the Life Planner as much as I do, head on over to Erin Condren's site for her current 40% off special.

48 hours left!

You have a little over 48 hours left to use the code SUMMERTOT for 50% off of Sorelle Felici! It ends at noon on May 4th, so share the code and get the kiddos in cute summer clothes this summer!

Sweetly Random Post

My beautifully wonderful friend Susan made these delicious little muffins at a recent knitting group meetup. Don't they just brighten your day?

So, I am curious - how often do you get together with your knitting cronies?

It can't get any better

It cannot get any better than this delicious yarn from Sweet Georgia. It just can't. Smooth, even yarn with colors that are reminiscent of vintage photographs. The owner, Felicia, is positively delightful and you can see how much she loves what she does. Luxurious fibers, an amazing palette, and a large variety of weights takes Sweet Georgia from 'indie dyer' to 'can't-resist-ultra-fabulous-indie-yarn-company." There, I said it. Take a peak - drool a little - you can clean up the keyboard later....

Merino Silk Aran

Cashsilk Lace

Superwash DK

I'm plugging away at Secret Project #1 using the Superwash DK right now. The stitch definition is amazing. My fingers would do a happy dance if they were the dancing kind. You can look forward to 3 designs from our collaborations before the Fall.

Dude.

Color me in love. Seriously. So much in love, that I have to rave over these for a little bit. Humor me -
Since receiving back in February, I've been putting my new Addi Lace Long Tip Clicks through the ringer and I just have to say that they have performed beautifully. The tips are sharp enough to handle just about any sort of cable or lace I throw its way, making specialty stitches (such as nupps) a breeze. The join, while not as smooth as butter, doesn't snag any of the finer yarns. This aspect, especially, is a big deal for me - I can't tell you how many hours I have spent trying to free a lace-weight yarn from other interchangeable needles that start to unscrew.... which points me to the best part of this set: the needles "click" into place - it connects so easily! AND it doesn't come undone!

I really debated whether to go with the shorter needles (and I might eventually get those, too), but I tend to work larger items that don't demand a smaller working circumference. So, when that hot pink cover looked at me, I couldn't help but get weak at the knees and say "yes." 

My one critique is mild - the oils on my fingers or the yarn (?) seem to wear the sizing information off of the cables and fades the stamp on the needles. Overall, not a big deal for me.

Its an expensive set, but at this point, I can proclaim that it is worthy! Haha! Find a distributor near you and give them a test.

Summer for the wee tots

With warmer air, blooming flowers, and those Spring showers, I know that Summer is just around the corner. If you are anything like me, you might want to get a move on knitting those warm summer items for the kiddos!

I have two patterns in my design portfolio that you might enjoy ...

SORELLE FELICI

buy now for $4.75

In fact, I am offering up this little number for half price! From now until May 4th, use coupon code SUMMERTOT for 50% off! That's only two weeks! Share this code to your heart's content, but only one use per customer. :) 

This sweet little tank was designed with my charming daughters in mind, two happy sisters who love playing together in the bright sun of summer. “Sorelle Felici” is pronounced ‘sor-rehl-lay fell-ee-chee,’ which is Italian for… you guessed it, Happy Sisters.

The tank skirt is worked in the round and then divided to work the front and back in rows. To be able to knit this top, you should be able to knit, purl, follow simultaneous shaping instructions, decrease, measure armhole depth, seam shoulders together, and know (or be able to learn) Twist 2 Front (a cable stitch).

SKILL LEVEL: Adventurous Beginner to Intermediate

SIZES
Child’s 18mo (2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12)yr – 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 close-fitting tank, so choose the chest size that is ¾ to 1 inch larger than actual body measurement.
Chest: 19 ¾ (21 ¾, 23 ¾, 25 ¾, 27 ¾, 28 ¾, 30 ¾) inches
Length: 12 ¾ (13 ½, 14 ¼, 14 ¾, 17, 18 ½, 19 ½) inches

YARN
MC Green Strings by Sugarbubbie Invigorate Superwash Merino DK (100% superwash merino; 280yd/256m per 4oz/56g skein) in Chrysalis; 1 (1, 1, 1, 1, 2, 2) skeins
CC Green Strings by Sugarbubbie Invigorate Superwash Merino DK (100% superwash merino; 140yd/128m per 2oz/113g skein) in Pink; 1 skein

NEEDLES & NOTIONS
24 length-inch length US 5 (3.75mm) circular needle
US F (3.75mm) crochet hook
Tapestry Needle

LUCY

I love this little top and it is a piece inside the FABULOUS book More Knitting in the Sun: 32 Patterns to Knit for Kids. In addition to my design, you will find ALL SORTS of cute knits for your kidlets this summer. The book is available on Amazon, as well as many local yarn stores, so be sure to grab a copy.

”Adorned with ruffles and a bit of lace, this quick knit makes a sweet top for your charming tot, and big girls will love it, too! The supersoft yarn and easy-to-wear silhouette will make it a favorite any day of the year.”

FIINSHED MEASUREMENTS
Chest: 23.5 (25, 27, 29, 30, 32)”
Length: 13 (14.5, 15, 17.25, 18.75, 19.75)"

SKILLS USED
 Basic increasing and decreasing, picking up stitches, simple lace

Legato & Sonatina

Two pieces from my shawl eBooklet "The Crescendo Collection," are now available as individual patterns. Yay!

LEGATO is a light, airy crescent-shaped shawlette that is stunning with a unique cable design and lace. But, don't be intimidated - the cable is actually quite easy to work and with a pattern that includes BOTH written and charted instructions, this piece will be an instant favorite.

buy now for $5.99

Skill Level: Intermediate

Finished Measurements:
11” / 28 cm deep by 50” / 127 cm wide at the top

Suggested Yarn:
400 yd / 366 m Fingering Weight CYC #1
Sample shown in: 1 skein Anzula Squishy Fingering (385 yds / 352 m per 4 oz / 115 g ball; 80% superwash merino, 10% cashmere, 10% nylon) in Wine

Needles:
Size 6 US (4 mm) needles
Adjust needle size if necessary to obtain correct finished gauge.

Notions:
2 Cable needles, tapestry needle

I love SONATINA, another crescent-shaped shawlette. It highlights rich colors beautifully and with only simple decreases and yarn overs, the pattern knits up quickly and easily (all while making it look so complex!).

buy now for $5.99

Skill Level: Beginner

Finished Measurements:
58” / 147 cm wide, 14” / 35.5cm deep

Suggested Yarn:
375 yd / 343 m Fingering Weight CYC #1
Sample shown in: 1 skein Western Sky Knits Seacell Merino (375 yds / 343 m per 4 oz / 115 g skein; 70% merino, 30% plant fiber) in Lagoon

Needles:
Size 7 US (4.5 mm) needles
Adjust needle size if necessary to obtain correct finished gauge.

Notions:
Tapestry needle



The entire eBooklet collection (five beautiful shawls) is available for immediate download for $12.95, so be sure to check it out!

I am serious about gauge

I am so serious about gauge, in fact, that I am determined to reach out to every knitter everywhere. I started with the "Make it or Break it Gauge Workshop" at Recycled Lamb. And now? Now I am going global and using Knitscene Magazine to promote my message. Wink.

Summer, Knitscene Magazine

In the just-released Summer issue of Knitscene, I've written a great (in my humble opinion) article entitled "Measure Gauge the Right Way." I bet most people are as confused about this aspect as they are about the idea that there are TWO different kinds of gauge!

...

I just shocked you there, didn't I?

Well, go buy the issue and read that article. You'll learn the difference between the two gauges, why each is important, how to properly measure each, and how to calculate the differences. Highlight it. Re-read it. Learn it. Live it! I am confident that it will turn that knitting path ahead of you into a whole new direction. 

Oh, and definitely let yourself ooh and aah over the collection of designs from Sarah Wilson (aka The Sexy Knitter). Seriously, her designs will wow you (and since you now know about proper gauge, it won't be wishful thinking to start knitting some!).

May issue of Creative Knitting

Yours truly has two designs in the newest issue of Creative Knitting: Adrian & Cynthia, two cardigans that you will LOVE wearing as much as you enjoy knitting.

Both pieces move easily between relaxed and sophisticated, without overwhelming you with shaping work. The highlights, in my mind, are the collars - they just add that extra punch of style. I had fun (and some stress) deciding how best to add the lapel to 'Adrian,' so I hope you enjoy the construction of it, too.

Creative Knitting Magazine is filled with tons of beautiful patterns by other amazing designs - seriously, I think this might be one of my recent favorite issues. DEFINITELY go buy one today... or, if you aren't up to the outing, subscribe digitally.

PS. Thanks to DRG/Creative Knitting for allowing me to use the photos.

Official Release: The Crescendo Collection

I am so excited to share this little masterpiece that has been in the making for nearly 6 months... Without further ado, I introduce:

The Crescendo Collection (eBooklet)

$12.95
buy now

Five stunning shawl designs make up The Crescendo Collection. Infused with passion and beauty, the lace, cables, and varying shawl constructions results in a masterpiece that will delight every knitter.

Legato - a crescent-shaped shawlette
Forte - a triangular shawl
Andante - a rectangular wrap
Sonatina - a crescent-shaped shawlette
Vivace - a semi-circular shawl

In addition, The Crescendo Collection booklet is filled with information to keep you on the road to success. You’ll learn about gauge, blocking lace, how to read lace charts, the lace bind-off technique, and my favorite tools.

ANDANTE - A rectangular wrap

Skill Level: Intermediate

Finished Measurements:
32” / 81cm wide by 61” / 155cm long

Suggested Yarn:
1230 yd / 1125 m Fingering Weight CYC #1
Sample shown in: 3 skeins Three Irish Girls McClellan Fingering (410 yds / 375 m per 3.5 oz / 100 g ball; 60% merino wool, 30% bamboo, 10% nylon) in Sea Salt

Finished (blocked) Gauge:
16 sts and 22 rows = 4” / 10 cm in the 23 st repeat of Border Stitch

FORTE - A triangular shawl

Skill Level: Intermediate

Finished Measurements:
82” / 208 cm wide, 33” in / 84 cm deep (from back of neck)

Suggested Yarn:
1200 yd / 1097 m Lace Weight CYC #1
Sample shown in: 1 skein Mountain Colors Winter Lace (1200 yds / 1097 m per 3.5 oz / 100 g ball; 50% wool, 50% silk) in Harmony Lake

Finished (blocked) Gauge:
16 sts and 24 rows = 4” / 10 cm in Forte Stitch

  

LEGATO - A crescent shawlette

Skill Level: Intermediate

Finished Measurements:
11” / 28 cm deep by 50” / 127 cm wide at the top

Suggested Yarn:
400 yd / 366 m Fingering Weight CYC #1
Sample shown in: 1 skein Anzula Squishy Fingering (385 yds / 352 m per 4 oz / 115 g ball; 80% superwash merino, 10% cashmere, 10% nylon) in Wine

Finished (blocked) Gauge:
16 sts and 36 rows = 4” / 10 cm in Stockinette Stitch, stretched heavily and then relaxed when dry.

SONATINA - A crescent shawlette

Skill Level: Beginner

Finished Measurements:
58” / 147 cm wide, 14” / 35.5cm deep

Suggested Yarn:
375 yd / 343 m Fingering Weight CYC #1
Sample shown in: 1 skein Western Sky Knits Seacell Merino (375 yds / 343 m per 4 oz / 115 g skein; 70% merino, 30% plant fiber) in Lagoon

Finished (blocked) Gauge:
13 sts and 22 rows = 4” / 10 cm in Stockinette Stitch, stretched heavily and then relaxed when dry.

VIVACE - A semi-circular shawl

Skill Level: Experienced

Finished Measurements:
30” in / 76 cm depth from back of neck

Suggested Yarn:
900 yd / 825 m Sport Weight CYC #2
Sample shown in: 6 balls Elsebeth Lavold Hempathy (153 yds / 140 m per 1.75 oz / 50 g ball; 34% hemp, 41% cotton, 25% modal) in #043 Claret

Finished (blocked) Gauge:
16 sts and 28 rows = 4” / 10 cm in Vivace Stitch, Rows 21 to 42

I think you will love the designs, the tutorials, and the ease of instructions. Let me know what you think and thank you, so much, for your support.

Must.Get.It.Done

Trying to put together an independent publication is not as easy as one hopes. Working with magazines is actually easier - their deadlines keep me on track. And apparently, I do not write myself up when I miss my own self-imposed due date. All that said, I am SOOO close to getting it done. It's just around the corner. This shawl booklet will challenge, delight, and intrigue your knitting hands. 

Merrimack

I'm thrilled to have one of my designs as part of the Classic Elite Yarns Provence Collection! Merrimack is in the Gatehouse booklet, along with 4 other beautiful designs. This little cardi is simple, casual, and fun to knit. You'll like the way it fits and you will LOVE the yarn!

 SIZES: XS (S, M, L, XL, 2XL)
Finished Measurements: 30-32 (32-36, 36-40, 40-44, 44-48, 48-52)"
Yarn Requirements: 2695 Watermelon 5 (5, 6, 6, 6, 7) hanks

I'll post more pics as I get them, but go check it out and knit your own! 

2011 Winter TNNA Fashion Show

Um. Yes - that IS my name and design in the show! This little gal was an utter dork with a giggle fit. And for those wondering, the yarn by Zealana is delicious. Soft and delicious.



There's so much more to share, but I have to plow through this to-do list first. Suffice to say that I was surrounded by rock stars and amazing, AMAZING yarn!!!

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!