Well . . . I doubt it was intentional. I don't even believe we ever told them about my severe allergy to angora or if we did, they probably wouldn't remember (they still spell my first name incorrectly). We got their Christmas gifts today. I opened mine to find I had not only just opened but held socks that were Merino wool . . . and 15% angora. It didn't take long before my body started weirding out and my breathing became difficult . . . Epi-pen to the rescue and the boy called 911. After a nauseating trip in the ambulance, in which I managed to vomit it a lovely vomit bag and 3 hours at the ER, I am once again okay. So, everything was throw out . . . oh well, it's the thought that counts, right? They looked so wonderfully warm too! At least I read the content before putting them on, that could have been some real fun. I am on Benadryl and steroids for the next four days to make sure there isn't any residual reaction.
Unfortunately, here in lies the reason I will never be able to visit a fiber festival . . . trust me, truly a devastating thing. I have an Interweave Crochet magazine and a Spin-Off magazine to review, but that will be at another time . . . I will probably be laying down here soon. I hope everyone else is having a much better Holiday Season than I am.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Looms, Bears, and Doctors
First of all, I was able to get to Lowe's and get some strong string and tonight I rigged up my loom so it is now functional again! I am finishing up was left on the loom for the scarf that I was going to make Justice. I might still give it to her as a short scarf, but since I had to cut about 5 or so inches off after the loom broke, I do not think it will actually be long enough for a scarf. We shall see. . . here is a peek at what I have done since fixing it.
I have also been working on the Catherine Bear that I started, so far I have both sides of the body and one half of one of the sides of the head (you can actually make out part of its little nose). It is nice, because it's something different than what I was doing (making gloves, gloves, and more gloves). I think it is going to be adorable, but I think it would be more efficient to knit the bears in the round instead of so many pieces so I have it in my mind to try another bear after this, but attempt to convert the pattern to completely in the round . . . we shall see.
Ah, and doctors. We went to the follow-up visit to the stomach doctor today and they told the boy that he has a hiatal hernia, where part of your stomach is up in your esophagus. Now he has another test this friday. So we shall see.
I have also been working on the Catherine Bear that I started, so far I have both sides of the body and one half of one of the sides of the head (you can actually make out part of its little nose). It is nice, because it's something different than what I was doing (making gloves, gloves, and more gloves). I think it is going to be adorable, but I think it would be more efficient to knit the bears in the round instead of so many pieces so I have it in my mind to try another bear after this, but attempt to convert the pattern to completely in the round . . . we shall see.
Ah, and doctors. We went to the follow-up visit to the stomach doctor today and they told the boy that he has a hiatal hernia, where part of your stomach is up in your esophagus. Now he has another test this friday. So we shall see.
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Meme
1. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE?
Two of my mother's friends around the time she was pregnant with me.
2. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED?
Who knows, lately I cry at the drop of a hat.
3. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING?
For the most part, except when I scribble notes quickly . . . only sometimes can I read it.
4. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT?
Peppercorn Turkey . . . yum!
5. DO YOU HAVE KIDS?
No, but my fiance often makes it feel like I do. :)
6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU?
Probably, but I am quite a loner in all honesty.
7. DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT?
Somewhat, I use to use it far more when I lived back around my family.
8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS?
Yep!
9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP?
No, a great fear of heights.
10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL?
Raisin Bran, the real stuff . . . no knock offs.
11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF?
No.
12. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG?
For the most part in both physical and personal.
13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM?
Perry's Double Churned Caramel or Ben & Jerry's Karamel Sutra - - too close of a tie.
14. WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE?
Body language
15. RED OR PINK?
Red.
16. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF?
Short attention span.
17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST?
Tracy.
18. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO DO THIS?
Sure, I like reading about people . . . obviously. :)
19. WHAT COLOR SHOES ARE YOU WEARING?
None right now.
20. WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU ATE?
Loaded mashed potatoes
21. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW?
My fiance talk to his grandmother on the phone
22. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE?
Orange
23. FAVORITE SMELLS?
Freshly cut grass, fresh bread.
24. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE?
My mom
25. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU?
I stole it from Gilraen's Knits
26. FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH?
Golf . . . poker counts as sport, right? :)
27. HAIR COLOR?
As my mother calls it dishwater blonde . . . it's like a medium brown.
28. EYE COLOR?
hazel, more brown or green depending on my mood.
29. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS?
ugh, no, I cannot touch my eyes like that
30. FAVORITE FOOD?
Oh, definitely Mexican . . . New York State does NOT have REAL Mexican food, it is despicable
31. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS?
Usually scary movies . . . happy endings are usually just way too fake
32. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED?
Dirty Dancing
33. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING?
Light Gray
34. SUMMER OR WINTER?
Neither, Fall
35. HUGS OR KISSES?
Hugs
36. FAVORITE DESSERT?
Boston Cream Pie
37. MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND?
no clue
38. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND?
no clue
39. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW?
Left to Die, by Lisa Jackson
40. WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD?
Nothing, it's just plain black . . . I never like to ruin the ones with pretty pictures.
41. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON TV LAST NIGHT?
Finale of Biggest Loser . . . no cable so I had to wait until yesterday to watch in on NBC.com
42. FAVORITE SOUND?
Purring of a cat
43. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES?
Probably Beatles, but not sure
44. WHAT IS THE FARTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME?
Here in New York, but this is kind of my home now, so . . . Washington State
45. DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT?
Special talent . . . not that I know of
46. WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
Pacific Northwest, Washington State
Two of my mother's friends around the time she was pregnant with me.
2. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED?
Who knows, lately I cry at the drop of a hat.
3. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING?
For the most part, except when I scribble notes quickly . . . only sometimes can I read it.
4. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT?
Peppercorn Turkey . . . yum!
5. DO YOU HAVE KIDS?
No, but my fiance often makes it feel like I do. :)
6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU?
Probably, but I am quite a loner in all honesty.
7. DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT?
Somewhat, I use to use it far more when I lived back around my family.
8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS?
Yep!
9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP?
No, a great fear of heights.
10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL?
Raisin Bran, the real stuff . . . no knock offs.
11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF?
No.
12. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG?
For the most part in both physical and personal.
13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM?
Perry's Double Churned Caramel or Ben & Jerry's Karamel Sutra - - too close of a tie.
14. WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE?
Body language
15. RED OR PINK?
Red.
16. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF?
Short attention span.
17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST?
Tracy.
18. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO DO THIS?
Sure, I like reading about people . . . obviously. :)
19. WHAT COLOR SHOES ARE YOU WEARING?
None right now.
20. WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU ATE?
Loaded mashed potatoes
21. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW?
My fiance talk to his grandmother on the phone
22. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE?
Orange
23. FAVORITE SMELLS?
Freshly cut grass, fresh bread.
24. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE?
My mom
25. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU?
I stole it from Gilraen's Knits
26. FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH?
Golf . . . poker counts as sport, right? :)
27. HAIR COLOR?
As my mother calls it dishwater blonde . . . it's like a medium brown.
28. EYE COLOR?
hazel, more brown or green depending on my mood.
29. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS?
ugh, no, I cannot touch my eyes like that
30. FAVORITE FOOD?
Oh, definitely Mexican . . . New York State does NOT have REAL Mexican food, it is despicable
31. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS?
Usually scary movies . . . happy endings are usually just way too fake
32. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED?
Dirty Dancing
33. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING?
Light Gray
34. SUMMER OR WINTER?
Neither, Fall
35. HUGS OR KISSES?
Hugs
36. FAVORITE DESSERT?
Boston Cream Pie
37. MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND?
no clue
38. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND?
no clue
39. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW?
Left to Die, by Lisa Jackson
40. WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD?
Nothing, it's just plain black . . . I never like to ruin the ones with pretty pictures.
41. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON TV LAST NIGHT?
Finale of Biggest Loser . . . no cable so I had to wait until yesterday to watch in on NBC.com
42. FAVORITE SOUND?
Purring of a cat
43. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES?
Probably Beatles, but not sure
44. WHAT IS THE FARTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME?
Here in New York, but this is kind of my home now, so . . . Washington State
45. DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT?
Special talent . . . not that I know of
46. WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
Pacific Northwest, Washington State
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
More FO's
The long awaited gloves:
As you can see, the colorway almost perfectly aligned in each glove and I did nothing to make that happen, once one ended, I started the second one.
I like how they turned out, I definitely think it is worth it to knit gloves at a very small gauge. I really hope they fit her and she likes them.
Rhoni's Gloves : Phoenix Rising
Yarn: Lana Grossa Meilenweit
Color: 716 (red bas with brown, black, tan, and red)
Content: 70% wool, 23% polyamid, 7% Elite(PBT)
Care: Machine wash cold and lay flat to dry
Needles: US 00 / 1.75mm
Gauge: 10st per inch / 14 rows per inch
Pattern: Ann Budd'sThe Knitter's Handy Book of Patterns
Size: 7.5
Modifications: No modifications, but if I had it to do over, I might consider some negative ease. This was something that dawned on me way to late with every one's gloves.
* * * * * * *
Onto my Dad's gloves:
Yarn: Patons Kroy Socks
Color: Coal
Content: 75% washable wool, 25% nylon
Care: wash in cold water, dry on low/delicate setting
Needles: US 0 / 2mm
Gauge: 8st per inch
Pattern: Ann Budd's The Knitter's Handy Book of Patterns
Size: 8.5 (man's medium)
Modifications: Each finger is only about an inch long to make them fingerless gloves.
* * * * * * * *
Justice's Gloves:
Yarn: Red Heart Soft Yarn
Color: Iced Violet
Content: 100% Acrylic
Care: machine wash and dry
Needle: US 2 / 2.75mm
Gauge: 6.25st per inch
Pattern:Ann Budd's The Knitter's Handy Book of Patterns
Size: 6-8 year old
Modifications: None, but even though this is still fairly thin yarn with fairly small needles, if I knit her any again, they will most likely be smaller needles and smaller yarn.
* * * * * * * * * *
Justice's Hat
Yarn: Red Heart Soft Yarn
Color: Iced Violet
Content: 100% Acrylic
Care: machine wash and dry
Needle: US 2 / 2.75mm
Gauge: 6.25st per inch / 8.5 rows per inch
Pattern:My own Joseph Hat
Size: small
As you can see, the colorway almost perfectly aligned in each glove and I did nothing to make that happen, once one ended, I started the second one.
I like how they turned out, I definitely think it is worth it to knit gloves at a very small gauge. I really hope they fit her and she likes them.
Rhoni's Gloves : Phoenix Rising
Yarn: Lana Grossa Meilenweit
Color: 716 (red bas with brown, black, tan, and red)
Content: 70% wool, 23% polyamid, 7% Elite(PBT)
Care: Machine wash cold and lay flat to dry
Needles: US 00 / 1.75mm
Gauge: 10st per inch / 14 rows per inch
Pattern: Ann Budd'sThe Knitter's Handy Book of Patterns
Size: 7.5
Modifications: No modifications, but if I had it to do over, I might consider some negative ease. This was something that dawned on me way to late with every one's gloves.
* * * * * * *
Onto my Dad's gloves:
Yarn: Patons Kroy Socks
Color: Coal
Content: 75% washable wool, 25% nylon
Care: wash in cold water, dry on low/delicate setting
Needles: US 0 / 2mm
Gauge: 8st per inch
Pattern: Ann Budd's The Knitter's Handy Book of Patterns
Size: 8.5 (man's medium)
Modifications: Each finger is only about an inch long to make them fingerless gloves.
* * * * * * * *
Justice's Gloves:
Yarn: Red Heart Soft Yarn
Color: Iced Violet
Content: 100% Acrylic
Care: machine wash and dry
Needle: US 2 / 2.75mm
Gauge: 6.25st per inch
Pattern:Ann Budd's The Knitter's Handy Book of Patterns
Size: 6-8 year old
Modifications: None, but even though this is still fairly thin yarn with fairly small needles, if I knit her any again, they will most likely be smaller needles and smaller yarn.
* * * * * * * * * *
Justice's Hat
Yarn: Red Heart Soft Yarn
Color: Iced Violet
Content: 100% Acrylic
Care: machine wash and dry
Needle: US 2 / 2.75mm
Gauge: 6.25st per inch / 8.5 rows per inch
Pattern:My own Joseph Hat
Size: small
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
New Project
My new project is a teddy bear from the book The Knitted Teddy Bear by Sandra Polley. I have actually had this book since I practically started knitting two or three years ago, but haven't done much with it. I did try a bear when I first got it, but it failed due to the fact that I chose to do a very small bear, on very small needles, with boucle yarn! Yes, I know, but at the time I just new it would be so adorable . . . ha ha ha. Any who, this is the beginning of the Catherine bear, which is the largest bear in the book and she is more of a traditional bear.
Yarn: Plymouth Yarn: Dreambaby D.K.
Color: #123 (light tan)
Content: 50% acrylic microfiber & 50% nylon
Care: machine wash and dry
Needle: US 2 / 2.75mm
Gauge: n/a
So far I am done with about 3/4ths of the torso, so basically, still a long way to go. :) But I am enjoying having non-deadline knitting.
Yarn: Plymouth Yarn: Dreambaby D.K.
Color: #123 (light tan)
Content: 50% acrylic microfiber & 50% nylon
Care: machine wash and dry
Needle: US 2 / 2.75mm
Gauge: n/a
So far I am done with about 3/4ths of the torso, so basically, still a long way to go. :) But I am enjoying having non-deadline knitting.
Echo's Scarf
This was the last thing I wove at school. I really liked how Echo's scarf turned out, it's just a plain weave, alternating a multicolor yarn and black in both the weft and the warp.
Yarn: Caron Simply Soft
Color: Black
Content: 100% Acrylic
Care: Machine wash and dry
Yarn:Lost the Ball Band . . . will look for it
Color:
Content: 100% Acrylic
Care: Machine wash and dry
Scarf is folded in half here. It is a little longer than my mom's scarf.
Detail:I worked it tightly together, so you mostly see the warp and not the weft.
For the life of me I could not get a good "in use" shot, so maybe my sister will send me a pic of her wearing it. :)
Yarn: Caron Simply Soft
Color: Black
Content: 100% Acrylic
Care: Machine wash and dry
Yarn:Lost the Ball Band . . . will look for it
Color:
Content: 100% Acrylic
Care: Machine wash and dry
Detail:I worked it tightly together, so you mostly see the warp and not the weft.
For the life of me I could not get a good "in use" shot, so maybe my sister will send me a pic of her wearing it. :)
Mosaic Book Done
I have to say, this book was one of those ideas that sounded so perfect when it was formulated and if anything made me realize that sometimes I don't think things through enough before just diving in. I had no idea how much time this book would take when I first started it and it was a painstaking ordeal to actually get me to finish it . . . FINALLY. In the end, I look at it and think that it was all worth it. I love the way the book turned out in the end. I really hope my mother likes it, because most likely it will be the only book I make like that. I realize now, that I was too picky, too particular about the way I set up the mosaic . . . I wanted it to look just right, I wanted certain colors next to others and certain shapes.
Back
Front
Details
All of the little mosaic pieces are blended polymer clay that was rolled out, cut into geometric shapes, separated on a cookie sheet, and then baked. They were glued on with mod podge and sealed with black acrylic paint that was applied with a pastry bag and a very fine point frosting tip. I realize now that there are steps I could have taken to make it easier on myself, but I wanted it to look precisely how it was in my head . . . did it end up that way in all actuality? No, there were things that didn't work the way I wanted it to and ideas had to be changed, but it turned out all for the better.
The inside:
Back
Front
Details
All of the little mosaic pieces are blended polymer clay that was rolled out, cut into geometric shapes, separated on a cookie sheet, and then baked. They were glued on with mod podge and sealed with black acrylic paint that was applied with a pastry bag and a very fine point frosting tip. I realize now that there are steps I could have taken to make it easier on myself, but I wanted it to look precisely how it was in my head . . . did it end up that way in all actuality? No, there were things that didn't work the way I wanted it to and ideas had to be changed, but it turned out all for the better.
The inside:
Ah, Loom!
My heavens, I realized today that I never even introduced this blog to my loom! Crazy, huh? Well, to say the least it was a bit of a traumatizing event since the e-bay seller who sent it to me packaged it so poorly that UPS thought the item was damaged. The box arrived with holes in it!
This is actually how it looks when UPS dropped it off to me! Yeah, you can see why they wondered if there was damaged done to the item. I would show you the other little holes, but we'd be here all day. It was only packaged in two boxes taped together, no padding of any kind to protect the loom!
The straps you see here, used for the front tie down are what was only stapled onto the wooden bar. (see explanation below)
Here you see the loom all set up with just a band of weaving for me to make sure the loom works. Which it does! Yeah! The levers for the heddles stick a little because the box had to be flipped upside down and sit on the levers due the giant hole you saw that was technically suppose to be the bottom.
So far, however, it seems part of the tie down was kind of rigged up and only stapled on, I found this out after I had dressed the loom for a scarf for my niece and had woven about 6 inches of it and the staples came undone! So I am going to have to do a little DIY on it before I can use it, but I don't think it'll take too long to fix, once the snow stops and goes away enough that it is safer to drive on the roads so I can make a trip to Lowe's and get a few things.
This is actually how it looks when UPS dropped it off to me! Yeah, you can see why they wondered if there was damaged done to the item. I would show you the other little holes, but we'd be here all day. It was only packaged in two boxes taped together, no padding of any kind to protect the loom!
The straps you see here, used for the front tie down are what was only stapled onto the wooden bar. (see explanation below)
Here you see the loom all set up with just a band of weaving for me to make sure the loom works. Which it does! Yeah! The levers for the heddles stick a little because the box had to be flipped upside down and sit on the levers due the giant hole you saw that was technically suppose to be the bottom.
So far, however, it seems part of the tie down was kind of rigged up and only stapled on, I found this out after I had dressed the loom for a scarf for my niece and had woven about 6 inches of it and the staples came undone! So I am going to have to do a little DIY on it before I can use it, but I don't think it'll take too long to fix, once the snow stops and goes away enough that it is safer to drive on the roads so I can make a trip to Lowe's and get a few things.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Crochet Today!
I just received the new Crochet Today! issue (Jan/Feb '09).
A little disappointed in the mail service, my magazine arrive in fairly bad condition(torn and ripped up, most pages are readable, a few of the back pages are missing completely).
Patterns:
~Coaster Comeback - - I think the "after" doily is cute, but the "before" one is beautiful. Less likely to be crocheted, but beautiful.
~Woodsy Wrap - - It looks very cute, but I don't know about woodsy, as it doesn't seem like it would actually be very warm. It looks like the design would make a really nice, light throw or blanket.
~Lumberjack Hat - - I actually think this is quite cute. I probably wouldn't wear it myself, but I think the pattern looks nice and well constructed.
~Fireside Throw - - As a fan of granny squares, I like this, not particularly a fan of the colors use in the blanket though.
~Layering Cardi - - Oddly enough, because of my not liking open tops like this, but I really love this! I will partially admit that the orange color is very appealing to me, but I also like the pattern and the structure. Would I crochet this for myself? Not as is, because these open cardi's tend not to look good on larger gals, but I would definitely like to do something with this.
~Snow Day Beret - - I think this is a cute design, not much for the colors. Also not much of a slouchy hat person, but the design looks very well done.
~Fuzzy Boot Slippers - - Nice idea in general, but I don't much care for the pattern itself.
~Rugged Winter Vest - - OOhhhh, LOVE THIS! Don't care for the zipper on the chest, but otherwise . . . oh I am so going to have to make this for myself! Maybe this will be my first cast on for 2009.
~Long Cabin Throw - - I really like this. Again, different colors would probably be chosen, but I like the diagonal pattern. Nice.
~Snowdrift Sweater - - Interesting, but not something I would wear. Definitely looks like something out of the 80's. Not my kind of style.
~Wintry Cowl - - I like the way this looks. What I think is the best, is the way it looks over the head, as a hood. Most knitted ones I don't care for as a hood.
~Frosted Waves - - Very nice pattern, but very girly. Still is very appealing to me. Looks like a nice spring top over a tank top or tee.
~Crafty Cushion - - This is kind of cute, but am not really a fan of these types of cushions. They slide around too much, etc. However, might be a nice pillow when sitting on the floor or something.
~Zig-Zag 'ghan - - Cute but nothing special other than a ripple type of afghan.
~Knotty Pillows - - I think with only the one knot hole, it looks just wrong. I think it's a little too structured to look like wood grain. I think it has potential, but I don't really care for it as is.
~Hearth Rug - - I like the way this looks. I think making them in smaller yarn, that these would look great as placemats. I kind of even like the colors. It has a nice balanced look and I have a soft spot for motif designs.
~Tea and Cupcakes - - Uhm, not for cozies really.
~Wintertime Teddy - - It's cute, but the eyes being level with the nose, it's king of creepy.
~Plush Baby Blocks - - These are cute. I like that they are granny squares and cover actual foam squares. Gauge is obviously a lot more important.
~Colorful Cap - - Appropriately name, it is quite colorful and it look nice.
~Arctic Baby Cardi - - The cardi looks nice and simple. The little moose applique is okay.
~Snow Flower Set - - Eh, a little tacky. A little girl might like it, but I probably wouldn't make it for anyone.
~Birds of a Feather - - Cute little guys. Would definitely make these if I had a reason to.
~Squiggles Blanket - - Eh, nothing special.
Articles:
~An International Inspiration - - I like this article and I like her attitude.
~Color Confidence - - Nice beginning intro into color use.
Definitely worth it! If you are into crochet, I would definitely recommend this issue!
A little disappointed in the mail service, my magazine arrive in fairly bad condition(torn and ripped up, most pages are readable, a few of the back pages are missing completely).
Patterns:
~Coaster Comeback - - I think the "after" doily is cute, but the "before" one is beautiful. Less likely to be crocheted, but beautiful.
~Woodsy Wrap - - It looks very cute, but I don't know about woodsy, as it doesn't seem like it would actually be very warm. It looks like the design would make a really nice, light throw or blanket.
~Lumberjack Hat - - I actually think this is quite cute. I probably wouldn't wear it myself, but I think the pattern looks nice and well constructed.
~Fireside Throw - - As a fan of granny squares, I like this, not particularly a fan of the colors use in the blanket though.
~Layering Cardi - - Oddly enough, because of my not liking open tops like this, but I really love this! I will partially admit that the orange color is very appealing to me, but I also like the pattern and the structure. Would I crochet this for myself? Not as is, because these open cardi's tend not to look good on larger gals, but I would definitely like to do something with this.
~Snow Day Beret - - I think this is a cute design, not much for the colors. Also not much of a slouchy hat person, but the design looks very well done.
~Fuzzy Boot Slippers - - Nice idea in general, but I don't much care for the pattern itself.
~Rugged Winter Vest - - OOhhhh, LOVE THIS! Don't care for the zipper on the chest, but otherwise . . . oh I am so going to have to make this for myself! Maybe this will be my first cast on for 2009.
~Long Cabin Throw - - I really like this. Again, different colors would probably be chosen, but I like the diagonal pattern. Nice.
~Snowdrift Sweater - - Interesting, but not something I would wear. Definitely looks like something out of the 80's. Not my kind of style.
~Wintry Cowl - - I like the way this looks. What I think is the best, is the way it looks over the head, as a hood. Most knitted ones I don't care for as a hood.
~Frosted Waves - - Very nice pattern, but very girly. Still is very appealing to me. Looks like a nice spring top over a tank top or tee.
~Crafty Cushion - - This is kind of cute, but am not really a fan of these types of cushions. They slide around too much, etc. However, might be a nice pillow when sitting on the floor or something.
~Zig-Zag 'ghan - - Cute but nothing special other than a ripple type of afghan.
~Knotty Pillows - - I think with only the one knot hole, it looks just wrong. I think it's a little too structured to look like wood grain. I think it has potential, but I don't really care for it as is.
~Hearth Rug - - I like the way this looks. I think making them in smaller yarn, that these would look great as placemats. I kind of even like the colors. It has a nice balanced look and I have a soft spot for motif designs.
~Tea and Cupcakes - - Uhm, not for cozies really.
~Wintertime Teddy - - It's cute, but the eyes being level with the nose, it's king of creepy.
~Plush Baby Blocks - - These are cute. I like that they are granny squares and cover actual foam squares. Gauge is obviously a lot more important.
~Colorful Cap - - Appropriately name, it is quite colorful and it look nice.
~Arctic Baby Cardi - - The cardi looks nice and simple. The little moose applique is okay.
~Snow Flower Set - - Eh, a little tacky. A little girl might like it, but I probably wouldn't make it for anyone.
~Birds of a Feather - - Cute little guys. Would definitely make these if I had a reason to.
~Squiggles Blanket - - Eh, nothing special.
Articles:
~An International Inspiration - - I like this article and I like her attitude.
~Color Confidence - - Nice beginning intro into color use.
Definitely worth it! If you are into crochet, I would definitely recommend this issue!
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Knit.1 Magazine
I of course had to get the new Knit.1 magazine since it came out today. *warning, pics on their site are quite washed out*
Patterns:
~Chinese Zodiac Amigurumi - - *crocheted* adorable little guys. They don't look very difficult and would make great children or animal toys. (only crocheted toys on page)
~Habanero Cabled Sweater - - I do like this design, but then again, a fan of Stefanie Japel's designs. I wonder about all those lines on a larger gal, but I will admit I would like to make it for myself. Probably not in red, since I don't look all that good in red, but a nice teal or yellow.(first pic on page)
~Backbone Vest - - I like the collar in the front and really overall the design of the front, although I think it might look nice as a sweater/cardigan . . . basically with some sleeves. I am really unsure of the design on the back. I kind of like the cable, but not really sure about the lines that go out.(second picture on page, doesn't show back though, only front)
~Marlene Socks - -I really can't figure out if I like them or not. Design is by Cookie A. Love her blog, but her designs for me are like Norah Gaughan's and I am always here or there about them. There almost seems to be too much pattern, not sure where to look. Is only sized for "adult women", yuck for designs with only one size option. (third item on page)
~Rainy Day fingerless gloves - - These are actually adorable. Not sure if I would wear them myself or not, but a wonderful little kid design. I do like the idea of making a picture on the gloves though. Yet again, yuck for designs who only have one size . . . and a woman's small at that! (fourth pic on page)
~Relm Tam - - It's cute, not much for slouchy hats though. If interested, there are much better pictures on his website, Brooklyn Tweed. (fifth pic on page)
~Rapunzel Stocking - - A design from the lovely Ysolda. I like the stockings, but where the yarn overs are double towards the top, it just doesn't look right to me. Not sure what I would do to alter that, but it bothers me. Again, boo for designs with only one size. (sixth pic on page)
~Red Brick Road Socks - -Plain, but nice socks. Simple cable down the side. These would probably make great men's socks if done in a different color. This pattern is from Wendy Knits, a lovely blog to read. (seventh item on page)
~Temporal Scarf - - wtf?? (eighth pic on page)
~Chunky Lace Wrap - - odd name seeing as there really isn't any lace to speak of because of the yarn and needles it is done up in. I like the way this lace stitch works up in this, but I don't much care for it as a scarf, would probably be a great blanket though. (30th pic on page)
~Triangle Lace Shawl - - Looks nice, but only one pic of it. Not a shawl person myself, anyways. (31st pic on page)
~Lace Scarf - - Looks nice, but not for me. (32nd pic on page)
~Lace Hoodie - - Hmm, not really sure about this. It looks like it has potential to be a nice sweater, with some actual shaping, different connection method of sleeves, and longer sleeves. (33rd pic on page)
~Chunky Cabled Tam - -Nifty looking. Not a slouchy hat person, but I could see knitting this for someone else. (22nd pic on page)
~Textured Vest - - I like the top part of it, but overall it is not pleasant at all.
(23rd pic on page)
~Chunky Scarf - - huh? (24th & 27th pic on page)
~Cabled Cuffs - - Semi interesting, however, the large clasps seem so awkward for a tiny knit. (25th pic on page)
~Striped Mittens - - Real lack of fit, seems large and clunky. (26th pic on page)
~Transition Scarf - - As a sucker for texture, I like this scarf, but probably wouldn't make it. I am not much of a scarf person as I have a short attention span. (28th pic on page)
~Cropped Cardi - - Kind of interesting, not sure if it would look good on a larger gal seeing as it is knit is some very chunky yarn, but nice look to it. (29th pic on page)
~Embroidered Yoke Pullover - - Basic structure doesn't look too bad, but it's hard to actually see the knit very well in the pictures in the magazine. Disappointed. (34th pic on page)
~Brioche Rib Pullover - - I like the look of this one, very 80's type look to it. It might be worth a knit. (35th pic on page)
~Garter Yoke Cardi - - Reminds me a lot of the February Lady Sweater. I know it is a little different, but not enough. Oh well, I think if the neck was higher up it would look better and if the sleeves were longer. (36th on page)
~Duotone Cardi - - Love the trinity stitch in the middle(in red), although you know I am a sucker for texture. Not really sure that I like the think over all. I think I'd much rather like the texture and just the red, I do like the color and the general structure of the item though. (37th item on page)
~Multi Motif Afghan - - Not so much for this . . . maybe if the colors flowed better. I am a fan of granny squares and such, but this is kind of color conflict overboard. (38th, last, item on page)
Articles:
Food Coloring - - Loved this article, gives you some basics on natural dyeing with plants. Definitely would like to try some of this!
Variations and Possibilities - - A nice article on the simplicity of knitting top down items.
In the end, was it worth the six bucks? Maybe if I think of it as inspiration of possibilities or what not to do. In terms of patterns I would actually knit . . . maybe . . . I do like Habanero. Habanero, the amigurumi, and the Chunky Cabled Tam are the only ones I think I would consider knitting as is, without any alterations. Disappointed, I am not sure if I am out of the norm, but is this really what their target audience of 18-35 really wants? I will carefully look at the next issue before actually purchasing it. Any who, let me know what you think of this issue.
Patterns:
~Chinese Zodiac Amigurumi - - *crocheted* adorable little guys. They don't look very difficult and would make great children or animal toys. (only crocheted toys on page)
~Habanero Cabled Sweater - - I do like this design, but then again, a fan of Stefanie Japel's designs. I wonder about all those lines on a larger gal, but I will admit I would like to make it for myself. Probably not in red, since I don't look all that good in red, but a nice teal or yellow.(first pic on page)
~Backbone Vest - - I like the collar in the front and really overall the design of the front, although I think it might look nice as a sweater/cardigan . . . basically with some sleeves. I am really unsure of the design on the back. I kind of like the cable, but not really sure about the lines that go out.(second picture on page, doesn't show back though, only front)
~Marlene Socks - -I really can't figure out if I like them or not. Design is by Cookie A. Love her blog, but her designs for me are like Norah Gaughan's and I am always here or there about them. There almost seems to be too much pattern, not sure where to look. Is only sized for "adult women", yuck for designs with only one size option. (third item on page)
~Rainy Day fingerless gloves - - These are actually adorable. Not sure if I would wear them myself or not, but a wonderful little kid design. I do like the idea of making a picture on the gloves though. Yet again, yuck for designs who only have one size . . . and a woman's small at that! (fourth pic on page)
~Relm Tam - - It's cute, not much for slouchy hats though. If interested, there are much better pictures on his website, Brooklyn Tweed. (fifth pic on page)
~Rapunzel Stocking - - A design from the lovely Ysolda. I like the stockings, but where the yarn overs are double towards the top, it just doesn't look right to me. Not sure what I would do to alter that, but it bothers me. Again, boo for designs with only one size. (sixth pic on page)
~Red Brick Road Socks - -Plain, but nice socks. Simple cable down the side. These would probably make great men's socks if done in a different color. This pattern is from Wendy Knits, a lovely blog to read. (seventh item on page)
~Temporal Scarf - - wtf?? (eighth pic on page)
~Chunky Lace Wrap - - odd name seeing as there really isn't any lace to speak of because of the yarn and needles it is done up in. I like the way this lace stitch works up in this, but I don't much care for it as a scarf, would probably be a great blanket though. (30th pic on page)
~Triangle Lace Shawl - - Looks nice, but only one pic of it. Not a shawl person myself, anyways. (31st pic on page)
~Lace Scarf - - Looks nice, but not for me. (32nd pic on page)
~Lace Hoodie - - Hmm, not really sure about this. It looks like it has potential to be a nice sweater, with some actual shaping, different connection method of sleeves, and longer sleeves. (33rd pic on page)
~Chunky Cabled Tam - -Nifty looking. Not a slouchy hat person, but I could see knitting this for someone else. (22nd pic on page)
~Textured Vest - - I like the top part of it, but overall it is not pleasant at all.
(23rd pic on page)
~Chunky Scarf - - huh? (24th & 27th pic on page)
~Cabled Cuffs - - Semi interesting, however, the large clasps seem so awkward for a tiny knit. (25th pic on page)
~Striped Mittens - - Real lack of fit, seems large and clunky. (26th pic on page)
~Transition Scarf - - As a sucker for texture, I like this scarf, but probably wouldn't make it. I am not much of a scarf person as I have a short attention span. (28th pic on page)
~Cropped Cardi - - Kind of interesting, not sure if it would look good on a larger gal seeing as it is knit is some very chunky yarn, but nice look to it. (29th pic on page)
~Embroidered Yoke Pullover - - Basic structure doesn't look too bad, but it's hard to actually see the knit very well in the pictures in the magazine. Disappointed. (34th pic on page)
~Brioche Rib Pullover - - I like the look of this one, very 80's type look to it. It might be worth a knit. (35th pic on page)
~Garter Yoke Cardi - - Reminds me a lot of the February Lady Sweater. I know it is a little different, but not enough. Oh well, I think if the neck was higher up it would look better and if the sleeves were longer. (36th on page)
~Duotone Cardi - - Love the trinity stitch in the middle(in red), although you know I am a sucker for texture. Not really sure that I like the think over all. I think I'd much rather like the texture and just the red, I do like the color and the general structure of the item though. (37th item on page)
~Multi Motif Afghan - - Not so much for this . . . maybe if the colors flowed better. I am a fan of granny squares and such, but this is kind of color conflict overboard. (38th, last, item on page)
Articles:
Food Coloring - - Loved this article, gives you some basics on natural dyeing with plants. Definitely would like to try some of this!
Variations and Possibilities - - A nice article on the simplicity of knitting top down items.
In the end, was it worth the six bucks? Maybe if I think of it as inspiration of possibilities or what not to do. In terms of patterns I would actually knit . . . maybe . . . I do like Habanero. Habanero, the amigurumi, and the Chunky Cabled Tam are the only ones I think I would consider knitting as is, without any alterations. Disappointed, I am not sure if I am out of the norm, but is this really what their target audience of 18-35 really wants? I will carefully look at the next issue before actually purchasing it. Any who, let me know what you think of this issue.
School Odds and Ends
Here are a couple of assignments I did for my 2D class:
Burchfield Penney Art Center
I intentionally drew BPAC with darker colors, I wasn't much for it getting built and I think after it was all done, it doesn't fit into the architecture style of Buffalo, it looks so cold and distant . . . not welcoming at all. I kind of like the one taken without flash better, it gives a colder look to the place.
Line Drawing Assignment
I enjoyed this assignment, it was actually the first assignment we had in that class. Controlled chaos.
I intentionally drew BPAC with darker colors, I wasn't much for it getting built and I think after it was all done, it doesn't fit into the architecture style of Buffalo, it looks so cold and distant . . . not welcoming at all. I kind of like the one taken without flash better, it gives a colder look to the place.
Line Drawing Assignment
I enjoyed this assignment, it was actually the first assignment we had in that class. Controlled chaos.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
New Knitty
I know, I know, I am a little late with this, but bear with me. The new Knitty is up! I quite like a lot of these, which is nice, because I haven't been caring for most knitting magazines right now.
~Bijouterie - - I love the idea of knitted jewelry. I have seen Rosemary's work before and wanted to get her new book. All of the pieces on Knitty are nice, but I especially like #1 & #2. *Rosemary's blog and my previous review on her blog.
~A little bird told me - - Cute bag. It would have been nice to have a few pictures with the bag open or the flap up. I could see making something like that, probably without the embroidery though.
~Tushy Cushy - - It looks a little odd, yes, but I am sure it would be wonderful for babies or small kids. Reminds me a little more of 1950's torpedo breasts though. It does look insanely comfortable . . . don't know if I could get away with knitting one for myself though.
~Fern Glade - - I love the stitch pattern used! Not a slouchy hat person, but I would definitely knit this for someone else. I thought her blog was nice and will be adding it to my list of watched blogs.
~Topographie - - Kind of nifty, reminds me more of like braille or seams, not maps. I like the neck warmer more than the hat.
~Fish Hat - - Interesting, although I don't think I know anyone who would actually wear a knitted dead fish on their had, maybe if I knew some young boys. Nifty idea.
~Therapi - - I am drawn to this sweater. I like the different stitch patterns & it looks like one of those very comfortable sweaters. I think it would look nice in like a dark olive green. I of course already read Stefanie Japel's blog and own her book Fitted Knits, so I guess it's no wonder I am drawn to her pattern.
~Greyscale - - Not so much a fan of the white and black. Too glaring. Maybe if the gauge was smaller it would be better. The pattern seems nice, but I can't really get past the color.
~Amused - - Love the little details like the reversible cables on the collar. I think this has real potential, but for a larger gal the pooch that occurs after the cable collar and before the ribbing would not fair well. Maybe if it was changed into a cardigan and the cable design went all the way down. Not sure, but definitely giving me some ideas.
~Everybody Knows - - Good structure, but I really don't care for the dropped stitch areas. It kind of looks like something Keanu Reeves would wear in the Matrix, which I haven't quite figured out if that is a good thing or not.
~Amelia - - I think the neck is a little too wide, especially in the back, it goes a little too far down. I like the twisted rib accents. I am not sure if I would like this more if it were a sweater without buttons, or if it was a complete cardigan . . . I am not much for the few buttons on top and then open gap . . . as a chubbier chick, this is usually not so flattering to draw attention to the stomach area. Not sure, but definitely like some things about it. I already read Laura's blog Cosmicpluto Knits.
~Surface - - I am always here or there with Norah Gaughan's designs, but I absolutely LOVE this one! I absolutely love the textured stitch, it is simply to die for! (yes, I am fully aware that saying that just made me drop a few IQ points) I am a sucker for good texture though. I will most definitely cast on for this in the year 2009, if I don't, someone has to remind me!
~Latvian Vest - - All the color work patterns are beautiful, but not too sure I'd want them all together like that. I would probably pick one pattern and work it into the vest as a full pattern or as an accent pattern. Lovely designs though.
~Mirror - - I like the stitch pattern, but I am not a mitten person myself.
~Larus & Ardea - - I really like the twining stitching. I also like the cording trim. If I were to make them though,I would probably go up further like a glove and give them some length on each finger.
~Miittens - - I think these are simply adorable. This would make good charity knitting. They are far too cute. I already read her blog and here is a previous review I did on her blog.
~Plaited Points - - I don't so much care for these. The cabled design seems more like an after thought and doesn't seem to fit into the sock as a whole. I also don't care for items in which only one size is given.
~Naniboujou - - I like these. Very holiday colors, but nice pattern. I think it kind of reminds me of crochet due to the colored shadow work.
~Fargyle - - Again, not for patterns in which only one size is given. The design is okay, but sock patterns are all the rage and have to be quite unique to really get my attention.
~Black Rose - - I like the lace detail, but I think it looks better on the wristlets.
~Oomingmacks - - Cute, but no way would I make them or wear them.
~Socktopus - - Interesting, yet kind of creepy. I think the creepy thing is that they have feet, like human legs and feet.
~Bark-a-lounger - -Essentially a glorified pillow. Beautiful design. Would definitely knit this for myself as I have no pets currently. I would make the front twice though and not make it an outer cover.
~Rusty Nail - - I have to admit, when I saw the designer's name, I immediately became more interested as I love her sock books, but I am not much for this shawl.
~Gwynedd - - Okay, but it doesn't come off as anything too special.
~Esteem - - In all honesty, it looks interesting, but the design seems lost in the yarn color choices.
~Poinsettia - - Nice pattern, a little too girly for me, but then I tend to like her lace patterns. Her blog is of course, Knitspot.
~Maja - - Love it! Such an interesting stitch pattern. Just beautiful. Makes me want to cast on right now.
Articles:
Texturize your knitting - - nice article, definitely worth reading.
Notchless spindles - - another nice article, I have never used a spindle without a notch that I think would be interesting to try.
I think this was a rather nice Knitty and am quite pleasantly surprised. I hope you all have a chance to look at it and would love to hear some of your opinions.
~Bijouterie - - I love the idea of knitted jewelry. I have seen Rosemary's work before and wanted to get her new book. All of the pieces on Knitty are nice, but I especially like #1 & #2. *Rosemary's blog and my previous review on her blog.
~A little bird told me - - Cute bag. It would have been nice to have a few pictures with the bag open or the flap up. I could see making something like that, probably without the embroidery though.
~Tushy Cushy - - It looks a little odd, yes, but I am sure it would be wonderful for babies or small kids. Reminds me a little more of 1950's torpedo breasts though. It does look insanely comfortable . . . don't know if I could get away with knitting one for myself though.
~Fern Glade - - I love the stitch pattern used! Not a slouchy hat person, but I would definitely knit this for someone else. I thought her blog was nice and will be adding it to my list of watched blogs.
~Topographie - - Kind of nifty, reminds me more of like braille or seams, not maps. I like the neck warmer more than the hat.
~Fish Hat - - Interesting, although I don't think I know anyone who would actually wear a knitted dead fish on their had, maybe if I knew some young boys. Nifty idea.
~Therapi - - I am drawn to this sweater. I like the different stitch patterns & it looks like one of those very comfortable sweaters. I think it would look nice in like a dark olive green. I of course already read Stefanie Japel's blog and own her book Fitted Knits, so I guess it's no wonder I am drawn to her pattern.
~Greyscale - - Not so much a fan of the white and black. Too glaring. Maybe if the gauge was smaller it would be better. The pattern seems nice, but I can't really get past the color.
~Amused - - Love the little details like the reversible cables on the collar. I think this has real potential, but for a larger gal the pooch that occurs after the cable collar and before the ribbing would not fair well. Maybe if it was changed into a cardigan and the cable design went all the way down. Not sure, but definitely giving me some ideas.
~Everybody Knows - - Good structure, but I really don't care for the dropped stitch areas. It kind of looks like something Keanu Reeves would wear in the Matrix, which I haven't quite figured out if that is a good thing or not.
~Amelia - - I think the neck is a little too wide, especially in the back, it goes a little too far down. I like the twisted rib accents. I am not sure if I would like this more if it were a sweater without buttons, or if it was a complete cardigan . . . I am not much for the few buttons on top and then open gap . . . as a chubbier chick, this is usually not so flattering to draw attention to the stomach area. Not sure, but definitely like some things about it. I already read Laura's blog Cosmicpluto Knits.
~Surface - - I am always here or there with Norah Gaughan's designs, but I absolutely LOVE this one! I absolutely love the textured stitch, it is simply to die for! (yes, I am fully aware that saying that just made me drop a few IQ points) I am a sucker for good texture though. I will most definitely cast on for this in the year 2009, if I don't, someone has to remind me!
~Latvian Vest - - All the color work patterns are beautiful, but not too sure I'd want them all together like that. I would probably pick one pattern and work it into the vest as a full pattern or as an accent pattern. Lovely designs though.
~Mirror - - I like the stitch pattern, but I am not a mitten person myself.
~Larus & Ardea - - I really like the twining stitching. I also like the cording trim. If I were to make them though,I would probably go up further like a glove and give them some length on each finger.
~Miittens - - I think these are simply adorable. This would make good charity knitting. They are far too cute. I already read her blog and here is a previous review I did on her blog.
~Plaited Points - - I don't so much care for these. The cabled design seems more like an after thought and doesn't seem to fit into the sock as a whole. I also don't care for items in which only one size is given.
~Naniboujou - - I like these. Very holiday colors, but nice pattern. I think it kind of reminds me of crochet due to the colored shadow work.
~Fargyle - - Again, not for patterns in which only one size is given. The design is okay, but sock patterns are all the rage and have to be quite unique to really get my attention.
~Black Rose - - I like the lace detail, but I think it looks better on the wristlets.
~Oomingmacks - - Cute, but no way would I make them or wear them.
~Socktopus - - Interesting, yet kind of creepy. I think the creepy thing is that they have feet, like human legs and feet.
~Bark-a-lounger - -Essentially a glorified pillow. Beautiful design. Would definitely knit this for myself as I have no pets currently. I would make the front twice though and not make it an outer cover.
~Rusty Nail - - I have to admit, when I saw the designer's name, I immediately became more interested as I love her sock books, but I am not much for this shawl.
~Gwynedd - - Okay, but it doesn't come off as anything too special.
~Esteem - - In all honesty, it looks interesting, but the design seems lost in the yarn color choices.
~Poinsettia - - Nice pattern, a little too girly for me, but then I tend to like her lace patterns. Her blog is of course, Knitspot.
~Maja - - Love it! Such an interesting stitch pattern. Just beautiful. Makes me want to cast on right now.
Articles:
Texturize your knitting - - nice article, definitely worth reading.
Notchless spindles - - another nice article, I have never used a spindle without a notch that I think would be interesting to try.
I think this was a rather nice Knitty and am quite pleasantly surprised. I hope you all have a chance to look at it and would love to hear some of your opinions.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Not Gone
I haven't vanished. Just finished up finals last week and have been working hard over to weekend at my job and at trying to get presents finished. Had to take the boyfriend to have a test done this morning. Just busy. Will try to get some pictures and post tomorrow.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Beautiful Jewelry
When I was reading the newest posts on Live Journal, I saw a post of this jewelry:
I am not very girly, nor do I really wear any jewelry, but I love the design of these. If she does get her shop up and I have the money, I may see about getting some jewelry from her for my wedding. Wouldn't that bracelet(only in orange) look wonderful as a head piece with my veil?
I am not very girly, nor do I really wear any jewelry, but I love the design of these. If she does get her shop up and I have the money, I may see about getting some jewelry from her for my wedding. Wouldn't that bracelet(only in orange) look wonderful as a head piece with my veil?
Monday, December 1, 2008
New Spinning/Plying Technique
THIS is just so nifty. I have Navajo Plied before, but this just seems so much more convenient and just too darn cool. Or you can just watch the video here, from her site.
Tammy Rizzo's Navajo Ply on the Fly, demonstrated by Rosemary at Rosemary Knits.
Tammy Rizzo's Navajo Ply on the Fly, demonstrated by Rosemary at Rosemary Knits.
Ideas and Tutorials
I like the smocking stitch pattern in this pattern and think it would make an interesting stitch maybe in a tank or sweater. I also think it is so nice of her to include a tutorial on how to do the stitch. I have already written down some stuff to start a gauge/stitch swatch. This stitch obviously reminds me so much of these little shirts/dresses my mom use to put me and my sisters in . . . maybe that's why I like it so much.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
No more cravings!
My fiance bought me this today!! It should be here in about two weeks at the latest! This is a good deal if everything functions well, which I think it will. I am so very excited. It seems very similar to the ones we have at the college so there shouldn't be too much of a learning curve. It is going to be my new craft addiction. I am definitely going to have to go to the library and look up some weaving books!
Friday, November 28, 2008
WIPS Update
Still working on a few things.
Justice's Gloves:
I have one completed and the cuff on the second one.
Dad's Gloves:
Still haven't worked much past the first few rows of the cuff since ripping it all out.
Rhoni's Phoenix Rising Gloves:
One glove finished and the second is almost to the fingers, just a couple more rows. Will take more pictures of second one soon.
A pair of gloves for myself:
No picture yet, but I am just barely past the cuff on the first glove, will get pics and put up info soon.
Second Trial of Joseph Hat:
No pictures yet, but will get some up soon.
Weaving third scarf at school. This one is going to be for Echo probably. Will get some pics this week at school.
**I am in sure in reality, I have many more WIPs right now, but I think their status is more like UFOs until the New Year**
P.S. Anyone on Ravelry, I have been working on updating my account (walden121) there now that you can use other things to upload pictures. Not that I don't care for Flickr, but I am a Photobucket junkie and it was a bother to have to upload pictures in two places, just to be able to post them to one more location. Any who, maybe I will be more active there now.
Justice's Gloves:
I have one completed and the cuff on the second one.
Dad's Gloves:
Still haven't worked much past the first few rows of the cuff since ripping it all out.
Rhoni's Phoenix Rising Gloves:
One glove finished and the second is almost to the fingers, just a couple more rows. Will take more pictures of second one soon.
A pair of gloves for myself:
No picture yet, but I am just barely past the cuff on the first glove, will get pics and put up info soon.
Second Trial of Joseph Hat:
No pictures yet, but will get some up soon.
Weaving third scarf at school. This one is going to be for Echo probably. Will get some pics this week at school.
**I am in sure in reality, I have many more WIPs right now, but I think their status is more like UFOs until the New Year**
P.S. Anyone on Ravelry, I have been working on updating my account (walden121) there now that you can use other things to upload pictures. Not that I don't care for Flickr, but I am a Photobucket junkie and it was a bother to have to upload pictures in two places, just to be able to post them to one more location. Any who, maybe I will be more active there now.
FO's
Echo's gloves were a nice change from the very small needles of my dad and Rhoni's gloves, which is why I am sure I finished them first. However, it also might have been the fear of running out of yarn and leaving enough time to potentially have to buy more. This was a yarn I got off of Yarn Cycle on Live Journal, so I wasn't sure if I would be able to find it easily or not.
Yarn: Lion Brand Wool
Content: 100% wool
Color: Sage
Needles: US 3(knitting) US 5(for bind off)
Gauge: 6 stitches per inch
Size: 7.5"
Pattern:Gloves from Ann Budd's Handy Book of Patterns
Modifications: The cuff is approximately 5.5 inches and they are fingerless. Where to end on the fingers was approximated. For the future though I would take into consideration negative ease on the hand, if not the fingers.
This was how much yarn I had left when I was done.
This is my finished adult version of the Joseph Hat. The next one I am making a little shorter, as it is about an inch or so too long. It kind of reminds me of vintage women's hats. I am enjoying working out this pattern of mine though.
I look a little too ridiculously happy, don't I?
This kind of leads into my New Year's Resolution for 2009, which will turn the focus a little more on me and my ideas. You'll have to wait until New Year's Eve to find it out though.
And ending question, do you prefer large pictures like this or would you prefer that I put little thumbnails for you to click on instead? I would love anyone's opinion on this who is willing to give it.
Yarn: Lion Brand Wool
Content: 100% wool
Color: Sage
Needles: US 3(knitting) US 5(for bind off)
Gauge: 6 stitches per inch
Size: 7.5"
Pattern:Gloves from Ann Budd's Handy Book of Patterns
Modifications: The cuff is approximately 5.5 inches and they are fingerless. Where to end on the fingers was approximated. For the future though I would take into consideration negative ease on the hand, if not the fingers.
This is my finished adult version of the Joseph Hat. The next one I am making a little shorter, as it is about an inch or so too long. It kind of reminds me of vintage women's hats. I am enjoying working out this pattern of mine though.
This kind of leads into my New Year's Resolution for 2009, which will turn the focus a little more on me and my ideas. You'll have to wait until New Year's Eve to find it out though.
And ending question, do you prefer large pictures like this or would you prefer that I put little thumbnails for you to click on instead? I would love anyone's opinion on this who is willing to give it.
Art - Down the Rabbit Hole
Well, I am posting this because I think it is okay work. Is it my best? no. Could I have done better? You betcha. Why didn't I do better? Deadline for assignment was long and my interests change quickly! I should have completed it quickly and moved on, but hey, hindsight is twenty-twenty!
This one is mine, it's an underwater theme changing into objects of violence. It's suppose to be a statement how as humans we tend to turn the world around us into something violent and bleak:
These thumbnails are the classes drawings. Unfortunately, not all my pics are good, but click on them if you'd like to see larger images.
Enjoy!
This one is mine, it's an underwater theme changing into objects of violence. It's suppose to be a statement how as humans we tend to turn the world around us into something violent and bleak:
These thumbnails are the classes drawings. Unfortunately, not all my pics are good, but click on them if you'd like to see larger images.
Enjoy!
The Weaving Experience
I have thoroughly enjoyed my fibers class (except for some whiny classmates), but the weaving has been the most enjoyable so far and makes me crave a loom. Here is the first scarf I made, this one is mine and it closely matches my Tychus hat I made quite some time ago.
I love how this scarf turned out, even if it is a beginner scarf with a few errors. It is a random twill pattern. The warp is a cotton yarn that the teacher required we use on our first scarf. I used white, olive green, and black. For the weft I used a black wool(Lana Grossa Joker-80%wool and 20%Polyamide) I had bought back in Ithaca before we moved here.
This next scarf was made for my mother. I used Red Heart Soft Yarn in Leaf, Dark Leaf, and Honey. I think it turned out wonderful, even if it was only the second thing I have woven. I made up the pattern myself. There is a couple tension problems at one end, where I began weaving and had to work on my tension, but I hope she will overlook that. *smile* I will admit to being a fan of Red Heart Soft Yarn, I think wool is warmer, but for those who don't like wool, this is a very soft acrylic. One of my mother's favorite colors, is a lime green color, so I hope these colors work well for her.
A detail pic of the weaving pattern.
A full picture.
Another close-up.
A modeled shot, of course. :)
A pic of the fringe.
Lastly, I though you guys might like to see what some of my other classmates are doing for their first scarf. Click the thumbnail to see it larger.
These last two pics aren't from my class, but one of the fiber majors that I know. She is doing this wonderful Shibori technique with her woven scarf. I saw her sample piece after it had been dyed, absolutely beautiful. The warp and weft in this are merino, the brown is where she will tie it off to dye it.
I love how this scarf turned out, even if it is a beginner scarf with a few errors. It is a random twill pattern. The warp is a cotton yarn that the teacher required we use on our first scarf. I used white, olive green, and black. For the weft I used a black wool(Lana Grossa Joker-80%wool and 20%Polyamide) I had bought back in Ithaca before we moved here.
This next scarf was made for my mother. I used Red Heart Soft Yarn in Leaf, Dark Leaf, and Honey. I think it turned out wonderful, even if it was only the second thing I have woven. I made up the pattern myself. There is a couple tension problems at one end, where I began weaving and had to work on my tension, but I hope she will overlook that. *smile* I will admit to being a fan of Red Heart Soft Yarn, I think wool is warmer, but for those who don't like wool, this is a very soft acrylic. One of my mother's favorite colors, is a lime green color, so I hope these colors work well for her.
A full picture.
Another close-up.
A modeled shot, of course. :)
A pic of the fringe.
Lastly, I though you guys might like to see what some of my other classmates are doing for their first scarf. Click the thumbnail to see it larger.
These last two pics aren't from my class, but one of the fiber majors that I know. She is doing this wonderful Shibori technique with her woven scarf. I saw her sample piece after it had been dyed, absolutely beautiful. The warp and weft in this are merino, the brown is where she will tie it off to dye it.
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