V Knits

Illusionist Shawl

2010-03-19T07:04:00.003-07:00

The Illusionist Shawl
Pattern by Olga Pobedinskaya

Gorgeous, gorgeous yarn from Alchemy called Haiku. (40% silk/60% mohair) It's the only non-itchy mohair I have ever experienced. This is a sample for Urban Yarns in color 112c - Secret Agent Blue. I didn't realize at the time when I chose the color but it matches a dress I already own! I love it when things work out like that. Now if I only had somewhere to wear the dress....

Go on and be seduced by the delicious yarn, but I will warn you! This pattern is epic in the sense that it takes for freakin' ever. It's 1300yds (4 skeins) of slippery yarn (I knit these on Addi Turbos, do NOT do this. For sanity's sake, please use bamboo or Addi Lace needles!) and at times rows have up to 520sts. I have knit entire sweaters in half the time that this shawl took. The pattern for the Illusionist Shawl can be found in the book Destination Alchemy. You do end up using almost all of the yarn (I had maybe a 5th left from the last skein) but if you wanted you could easily halve the pattern to make a scarf, though I think the size of the shawl makes it more versatile.

Anyway, I LOVE the results, I recommend going with the Haiku and though I love the shawl now I'm never knitting it again. =)

Blooming Superwash Scarf

2009-04-20T21:03:00.002-07:00

The Blooming Cotton Scarf Pattern by Eunny Jang

The colors I chose!

So many colors, so much fun! If you're like me and have some trouble with tension when doing color work, try this pattern. Because you're only using one strand per round, you don't have to juggle multiple strands. It's all ingenious slipped stitches. The pattern is easy to remember and it's easy to see where you are in the pattern, thanks to all those colors!

The scarf is knit in the round, then cut and partially unraveled to create the fringe. See Below.

I've decided not to do the full pattern and knit only half the width of the scarf. I've also decided to sew a fabric backing onto the scarf. The back of the scarf has all those wonderful carried strands from the slipped stitches and seem prone to snagging.

Pretty green fabric

More on all this once the scarf is totally finished.

Wavy

2009-04-06T18:22:00.004-07:00

Wavy Scarf Pattern from Handmaiden

This was a super easy quick knit. Urban Yarns has tons of this Fleece Artist yarn. The yarn I used was Merino 2/6 with AngelHair(mohair) in the Peacock colorway. The 2 separate skeins are sold together with the idea that you knit with both yarns at the same time. My favorite part was watching the colors change. So pretty.

Spring Cleaning

2009-02-15T15:41:00.001-08:00

Tulips from my Fella. =)

Well, it's done. I've got my stuff updated on Ravelry, photos and all. I have ALL of my yarn pulled off of my shelves and I am doing another great re-organization. It feels good to finally be getting around to tidying up. I've wanted to for a while. I think I can thank working at my LYS for that.

The sun is out today and I think spring is finally on it's way here.

Dragging my @ss....

2009-02-07T21:40:00.002-08:00

I've had a Ravelry account since October '07. You would think I'd be on it more often than I am, which is never. I've decided to show some more effort. Take photos of my stash etc. And I want to start doing a better job of this old blog too. We'll see though I guess.

Does Anyone Know What This Means?

2008-10-26T16:26:00.000-07:00

We all knew this would happen sooner or later....

I bought a loom.

A 36" LeClerc Nilus floor loom to be exact. Something that is $2575.00 new, I got for $350.00. Holy crap!!! The price included a custom handmade bench and a warping board, bobbins, bobbin winder, shuttles etc..... The awesome lady that was keeping an ear to the ground for me was also kind enough to pick it up and drop it off at my place. =) Wonderful people crafters are, I tell ya. Then, my Fella decided to rearrange half of our one-bedroom apartment to accommodate the newest addition to our household. What a lucky girl I am. I have been grinning all day today. =D

Catching Up

2008-10-08T11:31:00.000-07:00

Flower Brooch

Flower Brooch on Knitted Pouch

And some pretty knitted lace....

.....to make a classy little scarf.

This is the Juliet Scarf from Louisa Harding's book Knitting Little Luxuries. Originally for a light and fluffy yarn (angora blend), this one was knit with 2 strands of different yarns together for some added weight and density. I used Hand Maiden's Cashemere and Silk and Great Big Sea, both in the Ivory colorway.

The knitted pouch which contains the scarf was a quick pattern that I whipped up that echoes one of the lace motifs from the original pattern. I started at the bottom using the provisional cast-on, added 4 reps of the lace pattern on both sides, made some yarn over holes for the crocheted cord to go through and voila! Little knitted pouch. I just thought a scarf like this should have sometime to protect it when it's put away. So. There we go. This is another one for Sherry. She'll get it tomorrow. =)

Sherry's Hat and Scarf

2008-08-08T23:13:00.003-07:00

Me modeling a hat and scarf I'm working on for my friend Sherry.

"Hey Sherry! I'm almost done! Almost."

Wow.

2008-08-03T15:18:00.002-07:00

I have not posted in FOREVER. I haven't knitted much either since I've been on this photography kick. I've only got one FO that I haven't taken a picture of yet. I've gotten so lazy! Anyway, I may start posting more frequently soon. Stay tuned!

Happy New Year!

2008-01-01T11:57:00.000-08:00

The first FO of the year!

This gray scarf is a gift for my sister. Not really a late X-mas gift.... A simple 'just because' gift. (Basically, I asked if she wanted me to knit her anything and this is what she requested.) It is so. Freaking. SOFT. Chunky Baby Alpaca yarn... *drool* I'll be sending it off in the mail soon!

I've got a bunch of projects lined up and it's just a matter of choosing which ones to work on. I am going to try very hard to not spend any extra money this year which means I'll be working on slimming down my stash.

For starters!

I'm going to knit this.....

Which I found in this....

And I'm going to knit it with this.

Eri's Clapotis and Muskox Qiviuq Yarn

2007-12-17T17:37:00.000-08:00

Eri's Clapotis.....

....In Drops Alpaca.

I love giving gifts. This past weekend became a series of impromptu gift exchanges. My Fella's sister and fiance came out from Courtenay to visit and I also spent some tasty-food, quality time with my good friend Eri. She was kind enough to model her new clapotis for photos. (Thanks Eri!)

Eri brought something for me too. Of course, what would a knitter love more than the gift of yarn!

100% Muskox Qiviuq Yarn from Folknits.

This is no ordinary yarn however. It is Muskox yarn. Muskox. I had no idea. I checked out the Folknits website and it said "Qiviuq is one of the finest, lightest and rarest fibres in the world." How cool is that? I am being very careful with what pattern I choose to knit with this. It will be a scarf for sure, possibly a slim version of the Clapotis... Oh! This yarn is absolutely gorgeous. It smells a bit different from other yarns. More like home, earthy and warm. I am in love with this yarn. The natural color of the yarn is so pretty too. It's a very subtle gray-brown, very sophisticated in a cashmere kind of way. Really, I can't say enough about this yarn. I'm going to savor it and not rush through knitting it. I'm still resisting winding it into a cake. =)

Gifties

2007-11-25T12:27:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd show some bits and bites of gifts I've been working on for the upcoming holiday season. I won't say what's what (I'm sure you can tell what they are anyway...) or for whom. Let's not ruin the surprise!

Debbie Bliss - Alpaca Silk

Drops Alpaca in Deep Red

Socks That Rock

And a pretty gift I received from the lovely Angela over at Food and Yarn. Thanks Angela!

Cables and Clapotis FO

2007-10-29T15:47:00.000-07:00

Aran Bag by Debbie Bliss

Yikes! It's been a while. No excuses, I've just been really lazy. But anyway! With access to library books again I have found a new pattern that I've started. It's the Aran Bag by Debbie Bliss. I've knit the front panel so far and am casting on for the back panel. The yarn I'm using (this time around...I plan to make more than one!) is Rowan Yorkshire Tweed Aran. I'm also scrounging around for fabric to use for the lining. This bag is going to be so pretty!

Clapotis from Knitty.com

It took me long enough but I've finally got the Clapotis bug. I've just finished this one and I am gearing up to make another one. The yarn I've used here is Mama E's C*EYE*BER Fiber yarn from the Cake of the Month Club. The next one I make will have to be wider though. The width given in the pattern works better as a scarf for me and I'd like one that functions more as a wrap. No wonder everyone knits this. No wonder!

Goats on the Roof!

2007-09-23T08:30:00.000-07:00

Goats on the Roof at Coombs, BC

I'm here in Courtney, BC visiting my good friend Jill and she thought it would be fun to take a slight detour from our drive up from Nanimo to see some Goats on the Roof. She said, "Trust me, you'll know when you see it." And really, that is what they are! Just some goats hanging out on the grass-covered roof of a market that overlooks a restaurant patio. Apparently, some of the goats will leer at you while you eat your tasty food! Very cute.

Mystic Sea Socks FO

2007-09-08T12:44:00.000-07:00

FO: Mystic Sea Socks - Pattern by Cass White

These socks were great to knit! Yummy yarn and an interesting pattern. I'm pretty happy that Angela gave me this pattern. I always have my doubts with rib patterns, I just do. But this pattern was a total success! I really liked how it was cast on. (I don't know if that method has a name but I think the idea is to cast on twice the number of total stitches needed so there is more stretch at the cuff.) I did change the heel and toe, but only because I am partial to short row heels and toes. I did a plain 1x1 rib while working the short rows for the heel and stockinette for the toes.

Yarn: Blue Moon Fiber Arts-Socks that Rock in Nodding Violet

I'm wearing them right now. They're really nice.

Cobblestone Pullover FO and Nomad Hat and Scarf FO

2007-08-25T05:21:00.000-07:00

Cobblestone Pullover

I like it when it only takes 9 days to knit a sweater. Of course it doesn't hurt that My Fella usually fits one of the smaller sizes. This Cobblestone Pullover pattern by Brooklyntweed is a beaut. It's very easy to read and all of it is knit in the round which I love! The only seams to be sewn are under the arms, another plus for me since I dislike sewing seams. My Fella is so sweet he has been very careful his green zip-up skull sweater for fear that he might wreck it somehow. It was the first sweater I had ever knit for him so I appreciate and understand how he feels. But this time I have given him strict orders to wreck this sweater. Pilling, threadbare, worn. I want him to wear it so often that people start asking him why he doesn't change clothes. *haha* Okay, maybe not that much...

I knit this sweater with Rowan Felted Tweed (50% Merino wool/ 25% Alpaca/25% Viscose/Rayon). 6 1/2 balls @ 50g each (175m/191yds).

Nomad Hat and Scarf

Another quick knit FO I've got is the Nomad Hat and Scarf pattern by Kat Coyle from the same Fall 2007 issue of IK. I knit it with Patagonia Nature Cotton from Araucania.

Now all we have to do is wait for fall.

Best Angela Ever

2007-08-21T21:59:00.000-07:00

Eeek! Socks That Rock!

That is the Angela over at Food and Yarn. How come? Because she has brought me a cool pattern and pretty sock yarn. *Swoon* How sweet is that? The pattern is The Mystic Sea by Cass White. So pretty. And the yarn! Blue Moon Fiber Arts - Socks That Rock. (I don't know what the colorway is called though...Nodding Violet I think?)

The Mystic Sea by Cass White

Yarn Cake!

Squamish Getaway

2007-08-20T21:20:00.000-07:00

Sloan, David and Ian

Well my Fella got whisked away this weekend with me and a couple of friends to Squamish, BC for his surprise birthday weekend. (Specifically, it was a joint birthday weekend because Ian and Sloan share the same birth date!) We stayed at this cool little hostel called Squamish Inn on the Water and we took in the sites and hiked around at Shannon Falls.

The Birthday boy on his hiking adventure

Me taking a dip in cold river water after a good hike!

We also had time to check out the little shops downtown and of course, I found a yarn shop. Not just any yarn shop mind you, a yarn shop-slash-gelato cafe called Gelato Carina! (604-815-4448)

Noro Cashmere Island in Color #5

Which is where I found nine skeins of this lovely Cashmerino Noro. Mmm, I've already got a sweater in mind for it too.... Possibly the Eyelet Pullover from the Fall 2005 issue of Vogue Knitting.

And speaking of sweater, there has been good progress on my Fella's Cobblestone Pullover. I may have pictures to post soon...

Oh My!

2007-08-15T15:34:00.000-07:00

The fall issue of Interweave Knits is amazing. Go and get it right now. Also, the new editor has her blog here. I'm so hyped about this issue!!!! I've already started on one of the patterns for my Fella. Progress update to follow!

Crocheted Polypropylene Grocery Bag

2007-08-12T19:59:00.000-07:00

What's a crafter to do with polypropylene string? I can't remember the title of the book that I saw this idea in, but I picked up some string to make up my own pattern.

I started from the bottom up, finishing with the straps. I don't like to get too fancy with my crocheting so it's all chains, single and double crochets.

I really like how this bag turned out, and who knew polypropylene string came in pretty colors! I have this blue shown here as well as red which you can see in the bag, just above the bananas.

(Pattern disclaimer! I just quickly jotted down what I remember of how I made this bag. If you happen to try this pattern and it reads all screwy, let me know and I will try to decode it for you. I will not pretend to be a pro, I really don't do a lot of crocheting... Also, this is just my interpretation of a bag I saw in a book I can't remember the name of. I don't mean to rip off the pattern at all!)

Pattern: Crocheted Polypropylene Grocery Bag

Bag is made from bottom up in the round.

-Chain 25.

-Single crochet all the way down one side of chain and back up the other side and slip stitch to join to work in the round.

-Chain 2 to begin round and work single crochet for 2 rounds.

-Chain 3 to begin round and work double crochet for 2 rounds.

-Chain 5 to begin round, (*skip 1 space, double crochet into next space, chain 3*) repeat (*to*) until end of round, slip stitch into 3rd chain from beginning of round to join.

-Slip stitch into next 2 chains, chain 5 to begin round, (*double crochet into next space (between double crochets), chain 3*) repeat (*to*) until end of round, slip stitch into 3rd chain from beginning of round to join. Do 11 rounds like this.

-Chain 2 to begin round and work single crochet for 2 rounds.

-Work single crochet around both single crochet rounds together to create a bigger, sturdier round for the bags edge.

Strap Directions

-Lay flat (to help determine where the straps will be attached.)

-Slip stitch to about 1 1/2 inches in from side.

-Chain 3, double crochet into next 4 spaces. (5 double crochet-wide strap.) Turn.

-Work until strap reaches desired length. I made mine 19 inches.

-Hold strap end to 1 1/2 inches in from opposite side and single crochet together to join.

-Slip stitch around to other side until about 1 1/2 inches in from side. Repeat strap directions for second strap.

I don't know that hook gauge needs to be too specific. I used a 5mm and my bag ended up measuring 14" top to bottom, 10" across at the bottom and 14" across at the top. Straps measure 19".

Another thing to note, the single and double crochet at the bottom does not stretch as readily as the loosely chained body of the bag. I like it this way but you could always omit the double crochet section and start right in on the body portion of the pattern.

Knitting on the strike line

2007-08-03T20:35:00.000-07:00

But first things first...

My very first tomato, ever.

I'm having a tomato! Bear with me here. This is my first attempt at growing anything edible and I am very excited about getting to taste the literal fruits of my labour soon!

Me knitting a toque and my picket sign with toque knitting stuff.

We are still on strike. Boo! =( But to keep busy on the picket line a bunch of knitters have organized a cause for our communal knitting. Knitting hats for the less fortunate in Vancouver's Downtown East Side. I've got 3 made so far. (Props to Angela at Food and Yarn and Divinity at Knitteriety for their superb organizational skills and knitting prowess!)

One toque FO and one toque WIP

A couple of very cute Spaniels in Solidarity!

On Strike! It's Sam's Strike!

2007-07-28T17:38:00.000-07:00

July 26th 2007 - First day of strike for CUPE Local 391
Approximately 400 people from the membership were present.

In the pursuit of job security, pay equity, benefits and improvements for part-time/auxiliary workers! The workers of the Vancouver Public Library have been on strike since Thursday, July 26th in the hopes that the Library Management Team (LMT) and the GVRD will return to the bargaining table. Currently, CUPE Local 15 and Local 1004 are also on strike. This city-wide strike has been dubbed "Sam's Strike" because of the actions (or rather, inaction's) of our Mayor Sam Sullivan.

Below are some of my fellow library workers on the picket line.

(From Left: Lani and Alexei)

(From Left: Sherry, Jaspal, Ian, Al, Lara, Stephen and Ron-o-tron.)

Our Bargaining Committee has been hard at work, constantly encouraging our management team to return to the bargaining table to discuss our issues.

This post is not completely without knitting content though! There are many avid knitters that work at the library and they were out in full force as well!

Knitting in Solidarity!

Mini Summer Vacation

2007-07-17T21:01:00.000-07:00

Fresh cherry!

The past few days my Fella and I have been visiting his parents in Powell River, BC. We picked fresh cherries and blueberries in the backyard and visited the local farmer's market. We also went with my Fella's sister and her fiance to a cabin on Powell Lake for some swimming, spaghetti and mosquitoes.

Sock knitting on the ride through the peninsula

Don't worry though, I did have time to fit in some knitting. Socks, nice and simple. I usually prefer socks for travel/bus knitting because the project doesn't grow too big.

Silver Selkie Studio fleece

This is some fleece I picked up at the local farmer's market. Merino / Rambolete / Targee / Kid Mohair is what the label says.

Fleece close-up

I always love to visit there as it is a huge change of pace from busy Vancouver. I believe a move to a smaller city is in the cards for us... Who knows?

Bird-colored yarn and a hit of lace

2007-07-09T08:54:00.000-07:00

Testudo from C*EYE*BER Fiber's Project Spectrum Sock Yarn Club

I love this yarn! I am totally in love with the colors. It very much reminds me of the Pink Galah birds I saw while I was in Australia. I know it's sock yarn but I am tempted to use it to make something other than socks.... What to do, what to do...

Swallowtail Shawl - Budding Lace Pattern Close-up

Lately I have been having a hankering for some lace knitting. After sifting through patterns I found this one in the Fall 2006 Interweave Knits. I am knitting it on needles that are 1.5mm smaller than called for in the pattern. I could end up with more of a neck scarf than a shawl, which will be fine with me. I am using Alchemy Yarns Haiku (40% silk/ 60% mohair). *Drool*

Bee and Allium

I am afraid of bees. Mostly when then fly into the apartment. But with gentle coaxing from my Fella and sheer determination to get this shot, I got up close enough to get a decent shot. It helped that the little guy was so busy he didn't seem to notice.

More silk!

2007-07-01T20:19:00.000-07:00

Tussah Silk - Handspun on my poplar drop spindle

One of the wonderful ladies I work with brought me a bagful of tussah silk roving. (She had no use for it and wanted it to go to some use.) I am a happy girl, let me tell you! This is the first time I've spun silk and it's easy, I really like it. And the color! Such a pretty color. *Sigh*

Tide Pool from C*EYE*BER Fiber's Cake of the Month Club

Here is some yarn I forgot I bought! That happens sometimes when I order things online. I forget about the order and then.... Surprise in the mail! I love getting mail. Especially in the form of yarn.

Hope everyone is having a good Canada Day weekend! I stayed at home to avoid the crowds... Aren't I exciting? Woo!

Baby steps with the new camera

2007-06-24T23:01:00.000-07:00

March of the knitting needles

Orchid roots and terracotta pot

Typewriter typebars
(Which would fit in with the current colors for PS 2.0)

Brown and Blue Tank Top WIP

There is so much to learn with my new camera. I am very excited and I feel very dedicated to decoding the lingo and testing out the different settings etc. So far, so good. I'm inching away and slowly gathering knowledge. I am considering taking a few courses, which I will have to save up for... (Read:Yarn Diet!) But until then lucky for me I have a friend (my Fella's co-worker) who has the same camera as I do and he has offered to answer any questions I might have. Check out his stuff here! As you'll see, he's got the skills to pay the bills.

Speechless

2007-06-16T22:27:00.000-07:00

At first glance, you would not think this to be a gift to a girl from a boy that loves her very much. Unless of course, you happen to be the girl with whom the boy is in love with.

I had no idea what it could be but I went off in my usual way of taking pictures to mark the non-occasion. My Fella thought that was pretty funny considering what the gift was.

I bawled for a good 10 minutes.

My Fella tells me the sales guy said, "She's gonna have the best Father's Day ever!" Am I ever.

What I'm Weaving

2007-06-11T20:40:00.001-07:00

Hand Maiden Sea Silk & Fiddlesticks Knitting Zephyr Wool-Silk

Don't you just love the sheen that you get from silk yarns? *sigh* I bought the Sea Silk when I was in Calgary last year. This stuff is so pretty the photos just don't do it justice. And the other thing about silk? I can't stop sniffing it. Yes, I sniff yarn and silk is a good yarn to sniff. What?

New rug & new shirt

2007-06-05T13:56:00.001-07:00

New crocheted rug for the bathroom!

This rug has been a long time WIP. Ever since we'd painted our bathroom I'd been meaning to make a new rug to match. Now, finally it is done. I'd scrapped the original idea I'd had because seriously, who wants to do many laborious bullion stitches for plumpness when you can do easy, sexy little single crochets with 3 strands of yarn for sturdiness? Much more practical I think!

~Specs~

Pattern:
I made it up. I seem to be doing a lot of that lately. Basically I made a chain to the length I wanted and single crocheted until I'd reached the desired width. Then I single crocheted around the entire thing for edging, finished by threading through around the entire edge to help the rug keep it's shape. Voila!

Yarn:
Bernat Handicrafter Cotton - 100% cotton /2.5 balls @ 340g

Needles:
10.00mm plastic crochet hook

Pros:
Easy and quick.

Cons:
The rug does not fit under the door when it swings open or close. Doh! Also, the edges of the rug were all rippled and loosey goosey until I threaded through the edge with leftover yarn.

My new tank top!

Love, love, love this shirt! In a frenzy of inspiration I whipped this baby up. I used one of my Fella's old shirts and a pair of lacy underwear that I had never worn but had kept around... which I can now justify!

Here is the how-to:

1) Using one of my well-fitting tank tops as a template I pinned the outline on the old shirt.
2)I cut following the outline, (though I free-handed the neckline, eek!) unpinned, turned the cut shirt inside out and pinned sides to be sewn.
3)Sewed up sides with a straight stitch then went over again with a zigzag for reinforcement.
4)Cut up lacy underwear and pinned around neckline on wrong side. Sewed on lace with straight stitch.
5)Went around back of neck line with straight stitch for reinforcement.
6)Sewed on ties at top of shoulder with zigzag stitch. Gathered fabric at shoulder and tied ties.

Honestly, this is one of the most comfortable shirts I own now.

What I meant to post

2007-06-02T08:04:00.001-07:00

Purple Calabash Tomato Plant

I am growing two tomato plants on my deck. This is my first time ever growing anything edible aside from herbs. So far, so good. For a girl that used to work in a flower shop I have a pretty bad track record for keeping plants alive. But I think with the added motivation of an edible end product I've been keeping up with all the watering and whatnot. Anyway, looks like Blogger has fixed that glitch I had. Yay!

2nd Year Blogiversary!

2007-05-31T19:32:00.000-07:00

Yay! Happy Second Blogiversary to me! Unfortunately, Blogger is still f@&#ing around so there are no pictures. Only this.

_____________________________
Error Code: bX-rxaqrt

_______________________________

WTF!
Fix it! Fix it Now!
GRRRR...

FO's like a mofo!

2007-05-22T18:51:00.001-07:00

Red Ribbed Shrug

~Specs~

Pattern:
Ribbed Shrug from Erika Knight's Glamour Knits (Slightly modified. I knit from cuff to underarm in the round and shortened the length of the collar.)

Yarn:
Cascade Yarns 100% Peruvian Highland Wool 100g/220 yards 4 balls (because the pattern calls for 2 strands knitted together.)

Needles:
generic circs in 9mm and 8mm

Pros:
Quick like a bunny. Easy too. It was practically like knitting a scarf. Yep.

Cons:
Supremely warm. Good if it's cold, bad if it's just about summer. Also, next time I will knit it with one strand of yarn as opposed to the 2 strands the pattern calls for. Or maybe in a different weight all together...

Here is the back of the shrug and me racked out on the bed. This is actually one of the only photos that shows the true color of the yarn. Why is red so hard to photograph?

Next up: The Noro Striped Scarf. It was so quick to knit up there was no time for a colour progress update. Here she is all finished up.

Striped Noro Scarf

~Specs~

Pattern:
Variation of a pattern found at Brooklyntweed

Yarn:
Noro, Noro, Noro! 100% wool - 4 balls over different colourways. Kureyon Greens(163)/Kureyon Purple(153)/Kureyon Forest Brown(172) and a leftover ball I lost the band for.

Needles:
4mm bamboo straights

Pros:
This one, also quick like a bunny. easy and total instant gratification. Watching the colour combos happen was the best part.

Cons:
I already want to make another one but do I really need more than one of these scarves? Maybe to give as a gift....

I was in the process of posting more photos of the Striped Noro Scarf but Blogger has crapped out on me. Will edit post with more photos later.

My New Earrings

2007-05-20T19:33:00.001-07:00

Buffalo Bone Anchor Earrings

Nothing knitty today. Just thought I'd show off my newest pair of earrings. I have two holes in each ear (4 gauge and 6 gauge). The anchors fit in the 4 gauge holes. I absolutely adore them.

How could I resist?

2007-05-18T21:31:00.001-07:00

Striped Noro Scarf

What's not to love? I came across it at Brooklyntweed and had to make my own. Color progress update to come.

Things I'v been up to!

2007-05-15T22:01:00.000-07:00

Sock yarn scarves

There has been a blitz of scarves woven lately. I was half-heartedly gearing up for a possible craft sale that is happening with my work. Then I crapped out near the deadline of applying for a table. But there is always next year and now I have a bank of could-be gifts. I have actually sold a couple of the seaweed scarves to a friend of mine who has taken a liking to them so there's that too.

Seaweed scarves

And in two days I've managed to knit up most of this ribbed shrug. The photo is crap but it gives you an idea of what it's like.

Red Ribbed Shrug

Let's not forget the newest colors from Mama-E for the Project spectrum sock club. Mine came in the mail a week ago and I am still deciding on a sock pattern.

Spring's Beginning by Mama-E

Shur looks purdy in dat light tho!

Preject Spectrum Green

2007-05-07T08:19:00.000-07:00

Yay! New shortie socks!

~Specs~

Pattern:
I made it up...

Yarn:
C*EYE*BER FIBER sock yarn from Mama-E! ( Leftover from last year's PS.)

Needles:
2mm Clover Bamboo dpns

Pros:
I've knit with this yarn before and I love how it softens up. And I love the color.

Cons:
I cast off kind of loosely and the cuffs kind of bag out a little bit. That and I turned the heel a little early so they fit kind of funny. Not funny enough not to wear though!

And here is just some random greenness I found with my camera.

(Clockwise from top left: Orchid leaf, candle close-up, my Ovation guitar and Thai basil.)

I've started a project to send to one of my girlfriend's in Australia. I will post photos when I have a bit more progress.

Also, I have loaded up photos of the wedding my Fella and I went to a couple weekends ago. Check out David and Sloan's wedding here!

Did Someone Say Raisin Pineapple Drop Cookies?

2007-04-23T15:35:00.000-07:00

Raisin Pineapple Drop Cookies

Lately I've been in this newly formed habit of lazy baking. I like to look in my cupboards, see what I have for ingredients and then find a recipe. This way I don't have to make a trip to the store or spend money. I now believe you can find a recipe for anything this way. I Googled "pineapple raisin recipe" and found a recipe for Raisin Pineapple Drop Cookies. Who knew? And they are tasty! I did sub in 1/2 of rolled oats in place of 1/2 flour just because. It doesn't seem to effect the structure of the cookie much... Also I put in 1 cup of pineapples instead of 3/4 cup. Anyway, I recommend this recipe if you want something interesting that isn't too sweet.

Project Spectrum Pink

2007-04-09T19:25:00.000-07:00

New scarf on the loom

Magnolia blooms

And now with the not so pink. Decided to start a new scarf with the 3 Manos del Uruguay skeins (color 114) I purchased in Seattle.

I'm using a daisy stitch pattern I found in Vogue Knitting Stitchionary (Volume One: Knit & Purl)

What can I say? I like it.

Total Success!

2007-04-02T14:24:00.000-07:00

Tulips at Pike Place Market (Project Spectrum anyone?)

This past weekend was the best weekend ever! My Fella and I took a bus down to Seattle for the Emerald City Comic Convention (ECCC) and we had a blast. We got there a day early to take in some of the sights and within 3 hours of being in the city I had tracked down a tasty yarn shop.

Newly acquired yarn hanging out at the window of our hostel room.

The next day (Saturday) we were in line for the ComiCon bright and early. Once we got inside we headed straight for Tim Sale's table. He was handing out time cards for individual sketch requests and my Fella and I both snagged one each. We wandered around in awe until it was time for our sketch requests.

*
* (Thanks to Jared for taking this photo.)

I had heard that Tim Sale was a nice guy but I had no idea he'd be such a sweetheart! He was so kind and polite and obliging. And on top of that, what talent! The Lois Lane ink wash he did for me only took about 10 minutes and it looks amazing!

After that we geeked out hardcore. We dressed up as Jedi Knights and got our picture taken with Darth Vader. We checked out the costume contest and I got my picture taken with Hellboy! ( I think he got first prize.) Then back at our hostel room we made a fort in out bunk bed to keep the street noises out so we could get some sleep. All in all a good time. Even the weather co-operated.

We were exhausted by the time we got on the bus to come home. I already can't wait for next year because we will be going back for sure.

Tim Sale Scarf FO

2007-03-29T23:49:00.000-07:00

Man was that cutting it close! My Fella and I leave tomorrow for the Emerald City ComiCon in Seattle. If you're just tuning in here is the run down. Both my Fella and I are big fans of this comic book artist Tim Sale. You can check out his artwork at his site! (He does the art that is seen on the tv show Heroes.) Tim Sale is going to be at the ComiCon and I have made this scarf to give to him. The Lois Lane graphic is from one of his comics, Superman Confidential #3. The Superman 'S' is standard. You can see my Fella below posing with the scarf for the camera.

~Specs~

Pattern:
My very own!

Yarn:
Sock Yarn-Sisu and Lanett Superwash. (Sorry, I'll update with full details when I get back.)

Needles:
2.75 circs

Pros:
Just take a look will ya? What's not to love?

Cons:
I don't know how much I loved doing those looooong stripes though.

Little Quickies -FO's

2007-03-26T17:44:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my Fella and I purchased a new coffee table. It's got cool little hidden drawers on the sides and the top of the table has a glass covering. We've got all sorts of ideas of what to put underneath the glass for display/decorations so stay tuned for that. I decided that even though I am not the coaster-using kind of girl, this table would require some on account of the glass covering. So I whipped these little babies up. I don't crochet often so I was a little rusty at first.

~Specs~

Pattern:
Various sample flower patterns from some old photocopies I found.

Yarn:
Louet Euroflax - 1/4 ball leftover from a previous project. (Full ball: 270yrds/100g)
100% Wet Spun Linen

Crochet Hook: 3.50mm

Pros:
Quick and dirty. I like my crochet in small doses.

Cons:
Not the friendliest yarn to use. It's kind of rough on the hands but I still really like the results. I think I will leave this yarn for weaving from now on.

And speaking of weaving! After all the slow and steady I switched into speed-crafty mode this weekend. I was inspired into weaving this scarf while I was ogling my stash. (yeah, I admit it!) It's just a bunch of sock yarn but I love it. Sort of a retro orange flavour.

~Specs~

Pattern: My own (148 ends)

Yarn: -Warp-DG Confetti Superwash-2 balls (75% Superwash wool/25% Nylon) 210m/50g
-Weft- Sisu-1 ball (80% Virgin wool/20% Nylon) 160m/50g

Reed size: 12.5 dpi (30/10cm)

Slow and Steady

2007-03-25T16:29:00.000-07:00

Sock numero uno. I have the toe and a couple repeats done on the second sock. I love this yarn!

I have a table full of various orchids in various stages. Mostly dormant. This orchid in particular had been dormant for 2 years I think, then all of a sudden out it comes with 7 blooms! It was just too pretty not to share. The sun was out today ( a rare novelty right now in Vancouver) and I took full advantage of it. Nothing like real, live sunlight for taking photos.

Also, I am finally finished the knitting portion of the Tim Sale Scarf. Let me tell you, I do not look forward to knitting such long stripes ever again. Was it ever worth it though! It looks awesome!

And by request here is a shot of the loose ends on the back. Good times are to be had. Yessir.

Short-Row Toes

2007-03-20T17:08:00.000-07:00

I cast on for some socks today. I needed something easy but enjoyable after all the hard work and racking my brain for the TS Scarf. Something small but interesting. Something quick. So of course it would be socks. The last socks I knit were for my Fella and I had forgotten about my favorite part. I love, love, LOVE starting my socks with short-row toes. It just comes together so well. I mean just look! It's so simple and tasty. Also, I've done it so many times now that I can't really screw it up. Really, what's not to love? (This yarn makes me drool. It's leftover from these socks I knit last year.)

The Lovely Lois Lane

2007-03-19T15:36:00.001-07:00

Here's an update photo of the Tim Sale Scarf. I've finished all the intarsia parts of the scarf now *whew* and I can not be more happier about how Lois has turned out. I was especially worried about her facial features (there were a few tiny hiccups there) but they all turned out fine. Now just the many metres of Supes stripes and the dreaded weaving in of ends.

Are we there yet?

2007-03-16T08:32:00.000-07:00

Mm hmm. Fun with intarsia. As you can see. Actually, it's not as bad as I expected, but then maybe I expected a lot worse. I am doing better with tension this time and I am pretty pleased with the results so far. I am about halfway done Lois and completely finished the dark blue Superman side. Soon it will be sewing in ends, lots and lots of ends. Then blocking and stitching the edges together.

Novella Socks

2007-03-09T17:03:00.001-08:00

When I am in the middle of a priority project that really requires my full, undivided attention I don't always do what I should. What I should do is continuously work on said priority project. Instead, I have started a brand new project. One that has no priority whatsoever. Having said that though, I have to knit this. I don't even have what might be proper shoes to go with the finished product. I just needed to get it on the needles. Today. I've gotten as far as the ruffles and one full repeat of the trellis pattern for the Novella Socks from Knit 2 Together. I feel better now and I'm going back to the TS scarf. I promise.

Tim Sale's Scarf

2007-03-04T12:03:00.000-08:00

I was going to put this in as part of the last post, but I think it deserves a post of it's very own. I am really loving this project. And there have been no snags..... so far. This photo pretty much sums up what the project is. The Tim Sale Scarf! I've finished the Superman 'S' symbol and there is plenty of simple stockinette bus knitting for the remaining length of the scarf. The next step is to start the second side of the scarf. The second side will consist of an awesome Lois Lane graphic from Tim Sale's comic book Superman Confidential, Issue #3 to be specific.

This is what my table looked like at 1:30am last night. I had to slow down and figure out which colors/yarns were for what. But all that is sorted now and it should be smooth sailing from here! *fingers crossed* More photos to come!

Portland Pullover FO

2007-03-03T13:34:00.000-08:00

Yay! Jill is back safe and sound from her trip to Taiwan and so it the camera. Now for some photos!

~Specs~

Pattern:
Portland Pullover from the fall 2006 issue of Interweave Knits.

Yarn:
Welcomme- Le Super Mohair - 1 1/2 balls 120m/135yrds (40g)
70%Mohair/30% Acrylic

Garnstudio's Vivaldi - 1 1/2 balls 280m (50g)
43%Mohair/27% Acrylic/30%Polyester

Needles:
Circs in 9mm, 7.5mm and 6mm

Pros:
Quick and easy to knit. Easy pattern to follow. Also, the most functional sweater I have made for myself so far.

Cons:
I had to readjust the needle size to find the right gauge, which isn't really a con, more of a side note for next time. Easy to wear except for the fact that I don't know if I'm a mohair kind of girl. Somehow it feels to me that putting a soft, fluffy sweater over "curves" seems to round out and expand said curves.

Anyway, here is a peek at some cable work. I don't yet know what it is though. I have wanted to try out this cable pattern and I was just drawn to the yarn. More mohair, strangely enough. Country Mohair by Fleece Artist. Beautiful stuff with a fantastic weight to it. I have no idea what I will do with this once it's finished. Possibly a medium sized carry bag? We will see.

Pictureless

2007-02-22T20:44:00.000-08:00

I have finished the Portland Pullover and I won't post specs until I have dandy photos to post as well. I am also excited about a new project. I will let you in on a secret. I am a nerd and will be attending a comic convention in Seattle at the end of March. The big deal is that one of my (and my Fella's) favorite artists will be there. The wonderful Time Sale. I have decided to take some of the art he has done and use it as designs for a scarf that I will give to him at the ComiCon. Again, pictures are necessary to explain so I will wait until then! In the mean time, this means another trip to the LYS!

I'm the Biggest Idiot!

2007-02-16T10:06:00.001-08:00

Hmm, Where did everyones comments go? I guess no one comment's anymore.

Not the case at all. I've just been too out of it to properly navigate the new Blogger and to realise I set myself up to moderate comments. Doh! If I want to see comments I have to moderate them! What a dummy I am. Anyway, thanks to everyone with their nice comments and I'll try to be more observant in the future.

I know I haven't posted in a while. As my Fella gently put it, "You should update your blog because probably the reason nobody is making comments is because you left a picture of my foot up for a month. Prolly." This could be true! *lol* I've had the blog blahs and although I haven't been busy with unknitterly things, I haven't really had a lot to post about.

I did get a new bag though! This one I found at a local church second-hand store. And only for a dollar fifty! Score. In it, I am keeping my newly found project.

This is the Portland Pullover from the fall 2006 Interweave Knits, with a peek at the yarn I am using. If you look back a few posts you will see the bowl full of pretty mohair I received from a friend. That's the stuff. I am actually done up to the chest (it's knit in the round from the bottom hem up,) but do not have progress photos since I am lacking a camera at the moment! (Damn you Jirr!) I am thinking of using a contrasting color for the arms, yoke and neck. Haven't decided yet.... The pattern is super easy and I may be tempted to make several of these, depending on the how the first one goes.

Seeing Red

2007-01-19T09:58:00.000-08:00

~Specs~

Pattern:
My own hybrid sock pattern full of favorite things like "toe-up" and "short-row heels(and toes)".

Yarn:
Lana Grossa - Gaimersheim (Mega Boots Stretch) 1 ball 400m
70%Virgin Wool/23% Polymide/7% Elite (PBT)

Needles:
2mm bamboo dpns - set of 5

Pros:
Lovely mindless knitting and small enough to take on the bus! The yarn was nice too. And I got to bug my Fella a lot when determining size/fit and when taking finished product photos. I find it's nice to designate a project for just "bus-and-break-time-at-work" knitting, even if it takes a bit longer to finish.

Cons:
None! (Well, just that the self-striping looks a bit funny around the ankles due to knitting the heel.) Far as I can tell my Fella loves them too.

I recently purchased a copy of Jennifer Stafford's domiKNITrix. My first project from the book is already underway. Snow Devil Hat!

I am knitting it up in baby alpaca (is anyone surprised? I love alpaca!) and I like all the shaping that is going into this hat. I think this is a hat I will actually wear once it's finished!

If you are wondering why this photo is it's side, so am I. For some reason, this photo and this photo alone does not submit to the rules of balance and order. I tried loading the photo turned clockwise, counter clockwise, upside down. I tried loading it in a bigger size with the same results. WTF? WTF! I am only so computer literate. I don't know any fancy tricks. So I am stuck with swearing at the computer monitor and admitting failure.
See? See! Why?

And again!

Rag Rug FO

2007-01-15T07:48:00.000-08:00

Woo-hoo! First knitting FO of the year!

~Specs~

Pattern:
"Dizzy Rug" from Mason-Dixon Knitting.

Yarn:
Mystery fabric from Value Village (thrift store) cut into 2 1/2 inch strips

Needles:
10mm straight needles

Pros:
Very easy and quick to knit. This project is a definite plus if you are into instant gratification! I love the end result. It's now sitting in our entrance way in front of our bookshelf.

Cons:
Knitting a rag rug is hard on your hands. The rag/yarn is heavy which makes movement with the needles a tad difficult. Also, instead of showing a contrasting color when stitching the rug together (which is in the original pattern) I opted to seam the rug together so the stitching wasn't visible. I originally had a dark chocolate brown as the contrasting color but decided the rug looked more seashell-esque without the brown.

What else to do...

2007-01-12T09:08:00.000-08:00

When you get a new table....

Then make a new tablecloth!

This was a really quick project.
The shibori fabric was brought back by my mom last time she went to visit family in Okinawa.

I don't like it when tablecloths sit askew so I made little ties on each corner to avoid that.

I designed the ties so that center of the tie is sewn into place on the reverse side, then threaded though two button holes. The photo above shows the tie threaded through the two button holes.

So that's that. The first sewing project of the new year is in the bag. Now, onto the next...

So Spoiled!

2006-12-31T11:53:00.000-08:00

Knitty highlights from my X-mas haul!

Nicky Epstein's "Knitting Over the Edge" from my brother. Ashley Page's "Sexy Little Knits" from my Fella's parents and a poplar drop spindle from my Fella!

But do you know what was utterly missing from my life? This swift.

From my dear sweet Fella.
This probably wasn't the most exiting gift for him to purchase but I absolutely love it!

And I think the first FO I will have for the new year will be socks for my Fella. The more I knit socks, the more I love to knit socks.

Other projects to be completed for the new year include my red cardi, spiral rag rug and an Ape zip-up hoodie (sewing project) for my brother.

I hope everyone has had a fulfilling 2006 and have good plans for 2007.
Happy New Year!

This December

2006-12-18T16:25:00.000-08:00

This is the first year since ever that I haven't worked retail during Christmas. I loathed this time of year and very little of me would get into the spirit of things. I am happy to say that even though I still despise mall muzak Christmas carols, large groups of shoppers and tacky, over-priced decorations, I am more agreeable to the atmosphere this year. I have my mind settled in a homey, down-to-earth Christmas with lots of treats and food, family and friends.

Mmm, and the best gift a foodie like me can receive is.... Food! I had to share this one. A very good friend of mine gave me homemade peppermint patties! Aren't they gorgeous! And they taste fantastic. (Thanks Eri!)

Now for the things I've been up to this month (other than the obligatory Christmas shenanigans.)

This series of photos is a result of a recent trip to Value Village. It's my first attempt at a rag rug and I can't be happier. I love the colors!

Next, because I have temporarily abandoned my Evening in Eden Lace Shawl I will show you the results my mom had using the same pattern.

She knitted it up very quick. I think it only took her a couple weeks. Go Mom Go!

Last but not least, I finished and gifted a baby blanket for my Fella's co-worker.

Now that all my hard work is done, I am counting down the days until my Fella and I go up to visit his parents in Powell River for Christmas. Also, my birthday is quickly approaching which mean one thing. Cake. (A few days ago I was taken out to early birthday dinner to the Modern Club. If you live in Vancouver I urge you to visit this restaurant. It's at 3446 Dunbar Street between 18th and 19th Ave. The Modern Club. They serve Japanese-style savory pancakes called okonomiyaki's. They are to die for. You must go!)

I hope everyone is making the best of this festive season. Stay safe and I'll see you in the new year!

The Greatest

2006-12-01T07:52:00.000-08:00

This past Wednesday me and my Fella were lucky enough to see Cat Power perform for the second time this year. This time it was at the Commodore Ballroom and she brought the Memphis Rhythm Band with her. (Some members of the band are on Cat Power's newest album, The Greatest.) The show was awesome, we were up front and center and we even got some good photos! Do you see that Cat Power lighter on the bottom left? Well, we were one of 3 people that were lucky enough to snag one at the show. The roadies came out on stage quietly and quickly sold them off.

What's this? Ah, some knitting content. Right, this is a knitting blog after all.

Here is a photo I meant to post last time. My mom and I decided to knit the same lace shawl pattern while I was visiting in Calgary. She is knitting one for a gift and I've been hankering for some lacework. In this photo we are knitting up test swatches. We decided to use cheap-o acrylic yarn for practice, then start on with the actual yarn meant for the project. My mom is about half way done her shawl and I have yet to finish the first set off the chart. When I have more progress to report I'll post a photo.

Stash Enhance

2006-11-24T17:10:00.000-08:00

Back from a trip to Calgary.
We attended a friend's wedding and spent lots of nice, quality time with my family. Also, there were yarn stores. Yes. Yarn stores. *glee!*

I was at the Knitting Room and I snagged a couple skeins of Sea Silk by Hand Maiden in this gorgeous colorway.

Next was this Misti Alpaca. I love how the purple is flecked with bits of blue and pink. I have lace shawl plans for this stuff. Posing on top of the skeins are my first pair of Addi Turbo's.

Some caramel-colored sock yarn with no plans as of yet.

Lastly, some yarn my mom picked out that I plan on weaving into a scarf for her. The black is Piccolo by Lana Grossa (merino/polymide) and the teal-blue is Ultra Alpaca by Berroco (alpaca/wool).

I went to check out Make One Yarn Studio as well. What a pretty store! They had a couple knitting bags that I drooled over but refrained from purchasing. I picked up a shawl pattern intended for the purple Misti Alpaca but *sigh* no yarn.

Anyway, now that I'm back home I hope to get some FO's out soon. The only time I really had to knit was on the plane ride there and back.

Friends with Mo Hair!

2006-11-16T21:50:00.000-08:00

On monday I got an email from a friend who had done my hair up in dreads. (About two months ago.) She was asking about how my hair was holding up and...... would I like seven balls of 70% mohair/30% acrylic that she found in her closet for free? Boy would I! And it's such a pretty color too! I had to showcase the newest addition to my stash.

I'm off to Calgary for a wedding and to visit my family. I will also be making my first visit to Make One Yarn Studio. I am very excited about all of this! I'm off to bed now. You know how an hour and twenty minute flight can be so tiring! *snicker, snicker*

Gray Flames and Rainy Skies

2006-11-06T09:34:00.000-08:00

I don't really know if I am making things harder than it has to be. I've had this idea for glove-mitts with flames on them kicking around for a while. I haven't found a pattern I liked so I decide to make it up. Not just the pattern for the flames but for the glove-mitts themselves. I am very, very excited about this project. Especially after reading a book on Twined Knitting, by Birgitta Dandanell and Ulla Danielsson. It was published in English in 1989. It covers what they call a Swedish folkcraft technique. ( There is more on this technique at Knitty.com.) I realize now that the twist stitch I was using on my circle shrug is this very technique. It makes for very sturdy, even 2 strand knitting. Perfect for what would have been messy, uneven fair isle glove-mitts. I'm only about an inch and a half in but I already love how it is looking and feeling.

You can see in the reverse side picture (below) the results of the technique. I am alternating twisting over and under each round or so to keep the yarn from turning into a huge knotted mess. The only thing is that I have a third color to add to the pattern, but I will sort that out later on when I get to it. The flames

were inspired by one of my favorite graphic novel artists, Junko Mizuno. Specifically from her book The Princess Mermaid. I've drawn out sketches and graphed out the flames and I am hoping that I have laid it out properly with the increases I'll have to do. I'm just holding my breath until I reach a snag. But so far, so good. *fingers crossed!*

This project is perfect for today. It is gray, cold and rainy out. I love weather like this when I am indoors though. It makes me feel cozy. And it always smells fresh when it's raining. I used to live in Calgary and it hardly ever rained there. It was always dry, brown and dusty. Now that I live in Vancouver, there is definitely no shortage of rain. Mmmm.

(It's not a very glamorous photo but it gives you an idea.)

Eye Candy Friday

2006-11-03T10:26:00.000-08:00

First a peek at what is currently on the loom...
(Baby Monkey, Fleece Artist and Drops Alpaca)

And an FO!
(Almost, I just have to twist the ends to finish them off.)

~Specs~

Pattern: My own (66 ends)

Yarn: Moda Dea (green)/ Red wool (my own handspun)/
Mystery blue boucle(I think that was a thrift store find)

Reed size: 7.5 dpi (30/10cm)

I got a new toy!!

2006-10-30T19:20:00.000-08:00

Looky what I got! Looky! After some pondering and quiet reflection with my Fella, I decided to pick up an Ashford Knitters Loom. Lucky for me Birkeland Bros. is an Ashford distributor. This is a photo my Fella took while I was first threading the warp onto the loom. The way the sun hits, it looks like I've got little rays of sunlight for warp!

I've already finished my first project! This scarf is a Christmas gift for my sister. I originally bought this yarn for a project that didn't pan out. I'm pretty happy with the results.

~Specs~ (Not really sure what should go into a weaving project's specs.)

Pattern: My own. 44 ends.

Yarn: Drops Alpaca(white)-1 ball/Mandarin Petit Cotton(pink)-1 ball/Pink sparkly pink stuff I lost the label for-1/2 ball/White sparkly stuff I also lost the label for-1/2 ball.

Reed size: 7.5 dpi (30/10cm)

Here is a sneak peak at my current project on the loom. This one has brighter colors but I'm finding the fuzzy yarn isn't as easy to work with. Even so, I can't even say how happy I am with this loom! It's a very basic loom, especially compared to the loom Sweetgeorgia has! But I see it burning through my stash pretty quickly. Weaving with this loom is quick and easy. It's so much fun to see the progress, it's like knitting but faster. (That's the instant gratification side of me showing.)

And in non-knitting/yarn news! My Fella, always the sweetheart surprised me today with a little present. When I say little, I mean size small! I have an Ovation guitar and now, thanks to my Fella, I also have an Ovation Ukulele! I love, love, love it!

Do you know what today is?

2006-10-25T10:47:00.000-07:00

First off, this is my 100th post. No biggie. What is important is this. My friends, today is surprise mail day! I had ordered a tasty bag from Matt&Nat (because I love their bags and their promotional collection is on sale for up to 50% off! Go there right now!) Not only this, but I ordered my bag seven days ago. I don't know of any other place that delivers so quickly! I also had trouble ordering online at first (their site was 'timed out') and had to sort out my order via email. The people at Matt&Nat are super friendly, efficient and professional. I definitely recommend ordering from them online.

Chocolate, Socks and Mini Pumpkins

2006-10-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

This post may be a little disjointed. A bit of this, a bit of that. Starting with a yummy treat from Little Miss Food and Yarn. How sweet of her to share a bit of her chocolate stash with me. (I do find that sharing treats make them taste better. Unless it's bacon, then you'd better stay clear of me. That's my bacon!)

And what would Socktoberfest be without the purchase of many a sock yarn? I bought 10 balls in different colors of Sisu and two balls of Lana Grossa Meilenweit Colortweed. One blue colorway, one red. I am hoping to get some of it knit up for gifts in time for evil X-mas. ( I am a recovering retail clerk, hense the bitterness!)

I have another case of the shorties here with my latest FO. This is one I started a while ago and got hit with second sock syndrome.

~Specs~

Pattern: Bluebell Rib from Sensational Knitted Socks, with my own favorite sock anatomy. (Toe-up, short-row heel.)

Yarn: C*EYE*BER Fiber Yarn (100% merino)
I used only 1/2 of one ball.

Needles: 2.25mm bamboo dpns (set of 5)

Now I have cast on for my next pair of socks with the red colorway of Colortweed with the 'Tiger Eyes' pattern from Socks Socks Socks. I am really loving this knit so far. Leave it to me to start knitting something meant as a gift, then wanting to keep it for myself.

I also wanted to show some of the Halloween fun going on at my workplace. I guess they did this last year too! A couple bags of mini pumpkins are brought in and anyone that wants to can decorate one and display it at the front desk/info desk. People get pretty creative, as you can see.

And this guy is mine. A funny skull and crossbones pirate. I think my Fella and I will carve a pumpkin this year. Roast seeds, good times. I am thankfully not responsible for handing out candy since we live in an apartment, which is too small to have kids going floor to floor. Instead I can reap the benefits of the post-Halloween candy sales!

Socktoberfest Personal History (A linky post)

2006-10-11T08:33:00.000-07:00

When did you start making socks? Did you teach yourself or were you taught by a friend or relative? or in a class?

My first attempt at socks was in July 2005, which was unsuccessful but funny. My first successful attempt was in August 2005. I taught myself from a pattern out of a magazine. I really didn't love knitting socks at first but I have come around! I do love knitting them now. I think this is from some trial and error. I have now found a comfy sock knitting niche.

What was your first pair? How have they "held up" over time?

See July 2005 as mentioned above. No holding up since my first pair are unwearable due to gross difference in size.

What yarns have you particularly enjoyed?

Plain acrylic seems to be just fine for everyday socks, but I really like the feel of merino superwash wool. Alpaca which is a personal favorite are very decadent when knitted into socks. Almost excessive in the pampering, definitely not everyday wear but a nice treat. I have yet to find a tried and true brand of yarn, I haven't knit enough socks to know yet!

Do you like to crochet your socks? or knit them on DPNs, 2 circulars, or using the Magic Loop method?

DPNS! Bamboo preferably. I haven't tried crocheting socks. Or the other methods mentioned. But I really like how dpns seem threatening to other people when I am using them on public transit. Makes me feel safe.

Which kind of heel do you prefer? (flap? or short-row?)

The first few socks I knit were heel flaps (because that is what the pattern called for.) Then I discovered the magic and ease that is the short-row heel. I love, love, love short-row heels. No picking up stitches for this knitter! My ideal sock anatomy is toe up ( started with short-rows), short-row heel and cast off right at the ankles. My curvaceous calves make it hard for socks to either fit over them, or to stay up. I have knit a pair that do fit, They fit really well actually, but with shortie socks there is no danger of socks falling down.

How many pairs have you made?

Seven. With plans for many more. What with it being Socktoberfest. Also, I have just been killed in Sock Wars.

Happy Thanksgiving

2006-10-08T19:18:00.000-07:00

'Cheater' turkey dinner....

Sneak peek at a secret gift....

Finished fall socks....

And progress pic on cropped cross bones cardi.

Another One Bites the Dust

2006-10-05T18:53:00.000-07:00

Comrades, I have fallen! But what a way to go!

Here is a close up of the toe tag I made.

These deadly socks are from my deadly Assassin Erica.

Below are the socks I am currently working on. I don't have enough of either color to do an entire pair, so I am knitting the pair in alternate colors. One will be red with yellow toe and heel, the other will be yellow with red toe and heel. The pattern is actually similar to the Sock of Doom but on a 2x2 rib repeat instead of 3x3. Also it is toe up with a short row heel. (My favorite!)

Now, back to knitting socks for Octoberfest!

Prepare to Die

2006-09-24T20:49:00.000-07:00

They are done. They are sent. Be warned target. Be warned. Bwaaa-haaa-ha-HA!

A Crepey Weekend

2006-09-19T11:55:00.000-07:00

Three words for you foodies out there. Pumpkin. Pie. Crepes. Yeah, I know. It's pretty much genius. My Fella and I have taken to having crepes for breakfast most weekends now. Our stand-by fave is Nutella but I had this brainstorm to use pumpkin pie filling and whip cream for crepes this time. Holy smokes is it ever good. Try it. You won't regret it.

We also made a trip down to the newest addition to Vancouver's handful of yarn shops. Three Bags Full on Main Street.

I picked up some Alpaca&Silk by Blue Sky Alpaca for a shrug I am thinking about knitting. I was also contemplating some more yarn (of the same) for a pair of gloves for myself but decided against it. Just to save some money, you know. That is when my Fella stepped in.

Though he is one to poke fun at me and my yarn addiction sometimes, he is genuinely understanding about the whole thing. Sweet even. Sweet because even after I decided to come back for the glove yarn later, he went ahead and purchased the yarn for me. Just because. The picture above is the yarn he got me, along with the new red tambourine he got me a couple weeks ago.

Those were the nice parts of this past weekend. But I have been sick and woozy for the better part of the last 2 days. Bleh. I'm off to get some chicken noodle soup and Pride and Prejudice. The good, 6 hour A&E version. Not the Keira Knightly crap.

I'm In!

2006-09-15T07:51:00.000-07:00

The Rules

1. The first rule of Sock Wars is, you must talk about Sock Wars
2. The second rule of Sock Wars is, you MUST talk about Sock Wars.
(no really, for this to be a success we need as many combatants as possible)
3. Two socks to a fight
4. One fight at a time
5. No shirts, no shoes, just socks
6. Fights will go on as long as they have to
7. If this is your first time in Sock Wars, you have to fight.

The rules are straight from Sock Monkey's site.

I might have sentenced myself to death here, but I'll do my best.

Simple Storage Solutions

2006-09-08T08:17:00.000-07:00

Me: I think my stash is lacking.
My Fella: It might be lacking if this were a yarn shop. This is an apartment, not a yarn shop!
Me: Yeah, I guess. Still....

Finally. Finally I got sick enough of having yarn deposits all over the apartment and taking over the bedroom. Now with this new shelf unit my yarn is all in one place, and it's sorted by color! Right now I have the yarn out in the open as shown in the photo above. But I will be picking up ziplocs or something similar to keep my yarn in. Before it was just random bags of all shapes and sizes. Like a crazy yarn-obsessed bag lady. But now that I have a large all-in-one storage area for my yarnie things, it looks kind of empty. So I think I will have to make some new purchases soon. You understand, right?

The new rug, Cat Power and Ben Lee

2006-08-30T18:20:00.000-07:00

This is what our new bathroom rug is going to look like! It's a bunch of bullion crochet stitches in the round. Progress posts are to follow.

Sunday we went down to Richard's on Richard's for the Cat Power concert. She is very, unique. She was in a good mood though and was sounding great. I hear that going to a show of hers can be kind of hit or miss but this one was a hit! Then the day after we went back to Richard's on Richard's for the Ben Lee concert, which was kick ass. We had seen him open for Sam Roberts Band but this time he brought his whole band. It's too bad though that Lara Meyerratken
wasn't there like last time. (She's currently in the studio recording her own stuff!) Concerts on the horizon are Amy Millan and the ever-wonderful Hawksley Workman.

New Neutral Bathroom

2006-08-26T08:24:00.002-07:00

My Fella and I just finished fixing up and painting out bathroom last weekend and I thought it suited the neutral theme for Project Spectrum August. Ta-da!

Below is a shot of the bathroom before the makeover. I know the change doesn't look very drastic in the pictures but you can sure feel it when you're in the room. The original paint job was absolutely heinous, complete with drip marks, bits of hair, staples, holes and wallpaper. It was also a crazy, shiny oil based paint that wasn't quite white and it looked like the painters tried to slop it all on in one coat, which they probably did.

Here are also some 'before and after' pictures of the wall between the toilet and the bathtub, and behind the mirror.

I also wanted to share this little bit of our neighborhood animal encounter. Now, I've seen raccoons in the area before, but I have never seen one up in a tree. (I didn't know they could!) So I was pretty surprised to see a family of 5 raccoons, clambering up the two trees directly in front of our apartment!(Which is on the top/3rd floor.) It was funny and strange. They kept peeking over at us and getting tangled in small twigs/branches. They went up as far as they could, hung out for about an hour and left.

I realize that there is no knitting or fiber content in this post. I've been experimenting with some crochet patterns and I think I will be crocheting a new rug for our new bathroom soon.

New buttons and my love for alpaca

2006-08-13T12:13:00.000-07:00

This is the final month of Project Spectrum! Such a unique and original idea, thanks to Lolly! I really loved it, even though I didn't always have the greatest pictures or projects. Seeing what other people were up to was really fun. The yarns I got from Mama E were great too.

Yesterday My fella, his sister and I went on an impromptu shopping rampage downtown. We hit up Dressew, a plethora of shoe stores and Button Button (<-- See #4), where I found the perfect buttons to put on my red cropped cardi. The larger purse at the top of the picture above is one of two purses I bought on our shopping spree. The smaller clutch shown next to the buttons is a gift from my mom while she was in town just a couple weeks ago.

I don't know how long I will have Angela's spinning wheel at my place, so I am trying to spin up as much as I can. Shown here is some lovely alpaca fleece I bought while I was in Australia. I have been dying to spin this up! Let me tell you, alpaca spins up so nice and easy! I am discovering that my love for alpaca knows no bounds.

Skivvies

2006-08-07T16:35:00.000-07:00

I think I must be the only one that feels the need to sew her own underwear. It's cheap, accessible and comes in a variety of stlyes and colors. But lately I have been very unsatisfied with the state of store-bought skivvies. They don't really fit right, they are uncomfortable, and they aren't very well made. On top of that, all the underwear I've shopped through are made in sweatshops. So with a good idea of what my ideal pair of underwear would be I have sewn my own! I have to say I am very pleased with what I've got here. They are definitely the most comfortable pair of underwear I have ever worn, and they're cute! And they cost me the same price as they would in the store. I know almost everyone will think that it's way too much effort for something as trivial as underwear but let me say this. Underwear is not trivial to me. I love underwear and now I am making my own.

Co-ordinated

2006-08-01T11:21:00.000-07:00

I love how co-ordinating colors are drawn to each other. Or it could be some sort of subliminal thing that I am doing. Over a month ago when I bought yarn for my Fella, I also bought yarn for my own sweater. A really lovely deep red. The color of the sweater shown in the picture by the model is green. A few days ago I cast on for the sweater with needles I already have in my quickly growing selection. I needed 2 sizes and the colors of the needles just happened to be red and green. Then two days ago I picked up a new clear vinyl bag with a cherry print in red and green. And yesterday I got a new duvet cover in a wicked two-toned swirly green. All of these shades of green and red are really similar. It is really weird, and looks very cool if not a bit overboard. Anyway, I am almost done the back piece and will casting on one of the front pieces. I love the color. It's just the right shade of red.

On a side note, it is my sister's 22nd birthday today! Happy Birthday to Diane! She is here visiting with my mom (both from Calgary).

Where does the time go? (A post in 3 parts)

2006-07-25T20:27:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how fast the time goes. Things have just been moving so fast I feel like I am just barely keeping up. Well, here is a nice, big post to let you in on what's been going on.

Part One: 2 FO's!

Hello Skull Sweater! Can I say I am absolutely thrilled with how it turned out. It fits my Fella so well and he can't even wait for the weather to cool down so that he can wear it. The yarn was a dream to work with, so was the pattern and my Fella was very, very, very patient with all of my demands to stay still, turn this way and that, and numerous questions on fit and preference. I love the look of the sweater so much. I really didn't think I could do that much stockinette stitch without going crazy but I loved every minute of this sweater.

~Specs~

Pattern:
Cambridge Jacket from the Summer 2006 of Interweave Knits, with a modified version of the skulls from the Skully pattern in Stitch n' Bitch.

Yarn:

Cascade Yarns: Cascade 220 (100% Peruvian Highland Wool)
5 balls in Lime
1 ball in Yellow

Needles:
5.5mm metal circular and straight needles.

Pros:
Wonderful yarn. Awesome pattern. Love the finished product, and the guy who'll be wearing it.

Cons:
Had to do some minor adjustments to the length of the sleeves and collar to suit the wearer and I had a bit of trouble with the tension with the skulls, but I fixed that!

Now I don't consider myself a purple-y pink kinda girl, but I love, love this yarn from Mama E. I wanted to do something a bit different than socks and I just happened to be flipping through a crochet book and found a cute little shell pattern. So I whipped it up into a pretty little scarf on the bus ride to and from Powell River. (see Part 3: A Weekend Getaway)

~Specs~

Pattern:
Scarf in a random shell crochet pattern

Yarn:
[C*EYE*BER FIBER SOCKS ] by Mama-E's (80% Superwash Wool/20% Nylon)
400yds in Beauregard.

Needles:
2.5mm metal crochet hook

Part Two: A Weekend Getaway

Last weekend my Fella and I took a mini vacation up to his parents' place in Powell River to get away from the city life. We were lucky enough to have a day with enough wind to go out on his dad's sailboat. In the picture above that's me steering the boat! It was the first time I'd ever even been on a sailboat! It was so much fun.

We also picked blueberries in the backyard and went a great big hike near the water. I hope we can make time to go back and visit. I absolutely love it up there.

Part 3: Spinning up a Storm

I have been entrusted with a certain precious piece of crafty, wood machinery that takes fiber and turns it into yarn. Anglea from Food and Yarn is in the middle of a move and her spinning wheel is staying at my place until it is safe again. The top right picture is the top left stuff Navajo plied. The stuff on the bottom left was me just having a little fun plying some slubby white wool with self-dyed teal.

So that is what I have been up to lately. That and Scrabble. I'd never even played a game of Scrabble until last week, and I can't get enough. What can I say? I'm geeking hardcore.

In dire need of some good FO's

2006-07-03T20:08:00.000-07:00

There is no end in sight. I love new things, I love beginnings. I love starting fresh new projects with newly purchased yarn. I love choosing needles, checking the gauge, casting on until I get it all just right. I love getting over the hump of a brand new project into a good and steady rhythm, working at a brisk and constant pace until!!!! It all comes to a halt, I get bored and I look for a new project to 'mix things up a bit'. These are just a few that I have lying around, unloved and they'd be collecting dust if they weren't always in separate plastic bags and the such.

In the blue alpaca is the start of a friend's glove mitt. The tangle of variegated sock yarn are baby socks that have fallen victim to Second Sock Syndrome. The pile of blue and white is the interlac blanket from the last post and the beige wonder is a shrug that still needs to be finished off. Where do I find the inspiration? Bleh. At least my fella's sweater is coming along! I just have to sew in the ends, block, stitch together and knit on the collar.

A little too little, a little too late.

2006-07-01T18:03:00.000-07:00

*Sigh* I missed Project Spectrum June all together. I was saving this picture and now it's July! Doh. So that is the sewing machine that my Fella got for me (he's so sweet!) , lovely yarn from Mama E and a blanket I am working on for 'someone'.

Anyway, nevermind that. Today we went out and did it up! Today was the first skimboarding of the year. It really feels like summer now. The weather was great and the beach was packed but there was plenty of space on the water. I'm starting to get a better handle on it compared to last year. Ian's sister came out with us, we took turns (because there is only one board between the three of us, that might have to change!) and there was no diving face first into the water like last year. Good times!

Don't mess with me

2006-06-27T21:02:00.000-07:00

Ah, another weekend filled with trials and tribulations. I have finished the back and both front pieces of my fella's sweater, and one sleeve. I am lovin' the skull. Lovin' it. I tell you what, if he doesn't want it I'll wear it. I do have to make some adjustments to the sleeve because it is kind of baggy.

You see this face? This is what I look like when I stand over a freakin' hot stove on a freakin' hot day to make watermelon preserve (which by the way required 4 lbs of watermelon) to make four 1 cup jars of the most vile stuff I have ever made or tasted. Bleh! Never again. No. I am thinking of trying a cherry preserve or cherry jam. That seems a bit more promising than stupid watermelon. We'll see.

He's a Super Model

2006-06-19T08:06:00.000-07:00

New project as of this past weekend. I put my foot down and took the BF to the LYS to pick out yarn for a sweater for him. We've been together 3 years and I still haven't made him a sweater. Mitts and toques and scarves a plenty to be sure, but no sweater. Partially from fear of the boyfriend sweater curse, and partially because I haven't found a pattern (or thought one up) that would suit him. I finally found one in the Summer 2006 issue of IK. The Cambridge Jacket (CJ). I'm really excited about this one because it knits up quick and the yarn is so, so nice! I'm using Cascade Yarns 100% Peruvian Highland Wool. I really love this wool so I'm glad I picked some up for a sweater for myself too! I am modifying the CJ design by adding yellow skull and cross bones on the arms. Even though I'm just finished the back piece, I can already tell this was the right choice of pattern. Curse be damned, It's gonna look hot.

Look Ma, No Pattern!

2006-06-13T20:29:00.000-07:00

No knitting was done this weekend because I was going hardcore to finish this little beaut up. I got it into my head that I needed to make a skirt that was a hybrid of two other skirts I own and this was the result. I haven't sewn anything in about 6 or 7 years but I was surprised to discover that I was not too rusty on the ol' sewing machine! (Well, the machine I have is brand new, actually! Thanks to my dear sweet BF.) That's not even the best part though, wait until I tell you that the fabric I used was a bedsheets salvaged from the Sally Ann. Bedsheets. I am pretty proud of myself for that. It was the BF's idea to have me pose in front of that unsuspecting VW hippie toaster van. (I love that green!) And the picture of me pointing is when we were playing bocce ball in the park. Good times.

Yarn MIA

2006-06-10T23:27:00.000-07:00

It is ten days into June and there is no sign of my beloved Project Spectrum June yarn. My heart is broken. =( Okay, okay it's not that bad. I'm just whining. I'm itchin' because I've got a good idea for a blue theme photo. Nothing new knitting except I finally got a chance to meet Angela who was running that course I missed in May. Where? Why at a sushi place of course. Her blog isn't called Food and Yarn for nothing.

*sigh* So now I am waiting and waiting for beautiful blue sock yarn to arrive. I know it will be worth the wait. Then I can get my hands a-knittin'!

This is a little slice of paradise I went to visit last weekend. An old co-worker of mine has moved up to Sechelt/Gibsons area and is gardening like a madwoman. I bus/ferry/bused it up there with a friend and did a little bit of country weekend.

This is the three of us down at a creek at the bottom of their property, aren't we sexy? And because all of us are foodies (and Anglelique-on the right- is from France and makes wonderful crepes) we decided to have a mini crepe party. This has inspired me and I am going to buy me a crepe pan tomorrow. Maybe I'll have photos to show of my crepe adventures? We'll see. And sorry for the scatterbrained post! I'm a little sleepy I think. Good night!

Happy Blog Day to Me!

2006-05-30T20:43:00.000-07:00

Today, my blog is one year old! It really doesn't seem like it's been that long. But there you go. I finished my May socks, with yarn to spare, maybe even enough for a second pair.... We'll see. But for now I will keep my needles free until my June yarn from Mama-E arrives.

~Specs~

Pattern:
Various pattern's rolled into one. (The Veined Leaf Instertion pattern is from Knitting on the Edge.)

Yarn:
C*EYE*BER Fiber Yarn (100% merino)
I used only 1/2 of one ball.

Needles:
2.25mm bamboo dpns (set of 5)

'Til There Were No Stars Anymore!

2006-05-27T20:16:00.000-07:00

Best. Show. Ever. I can't even say how much fun I had yesterday! The BF and I got down to the Commodore Ballroom for around 5:30pm and got right in line behind the 5-8 people that were already there. We made quick friends with everyone around since only really big Hip fans were stalwartly enough to even get tickets. We speculated as to who might be the opening act, and some of us talked about how good the Sam Roberts Show was the night before. After going through rigorous ticket-acquiring processes ( involving names on lists, credit card/ID checks, fingerprinting and DNA testing) we were let in at 8pm and the BF and I promptly snagged a spot on the front line to the stage, just right of dead center. (I was at the very front and the dear BF stood as a barrier directly behind me.) Bought us some gig shirts and buckled down for the long haul. We took one look at the stage and realized it was the same setup as the night before, which meant only one thing. Sam Roberts Band would be opening for the Tragically Hip. It was fantastic! That line-up is the best of Canadian rock, hands down. Everyone in the place was on pretty decent behavior and we all did our darndest to rock out as hard as possible. AND! At the very end of the show Johnny Fay, the drummer came over to where I was in the crowd and passed off his drumsticks. But the two huge guys on either side of me grabbed at them too. You would think this would end is disappointment but wait! I was not about to give up! I got right in there and wrestled one of the sticks away from both of them. Then they duked it out over the other stick, decided to break it in half but ended up splintering it. I wrestled a drumstick away from two big guys which is a pretty cool souvenir from the show. Needless to say, I am one pleased girly. And to top it off, the shirt I bought is green, perfect for this month's Project Spectrum. Ta-da!

Lean green knitting scheme

2006-05-26T11:48:00.000-07:00

Well, May is soon ending and I only have one sock almost done. Humph. I don't know that I will have the pair done for the end of May because I can't decide how I want to finish them off at the cuff. I took the 'leaf vein instertion' from Nicky Epstein's Knitting On The Edge and decided on making the socks shorties for summer weather. But now finishing it off is proving to be difficult. Anyway, here is what I have so far, being shown off with my beaut of a guitar. (Notice I finally have my camera back! Woo-hoo!)

This weekend is going to be an eventful one. Completely not yarn/knitting related, but fun nonetheless. Yesterday the BF and I went to the (sold out!) Sam Roberts Band Concert. They were awesome. And I wasn't expecting much of the opener, Ben Lee but he was great too. The girl he was touring with, Lara Meyerratken, also great. (She tried to call me up on stage but the bouncer wasn't allowed to let me up.) And tonight. TONIGHT! We are going to a sold out show to see the Tragically Hip. Some say you are not really Canadian if you don't have a place in your heart for the Hip. I've wanted to see them for a long time and the fact that they are playing such a smaller-than-usual venue makes me feel lucky to be going. Okay, I have to go now and get pumped up for tonight!

Everybody's makin' babies!

2006-05-24T22:07:00.000-07:00

Which means that I will be making use of some of the baby-suitable yarn I have in my stash. There are a couple ladies that I work with who are recently announced as pregnant. I have some baby socks started from a while back that I will be pulling off the backburner and probably a baby blanket. Maybe I could try for a lil' sweater too. I've also been testing out a bit of cross stitch, inspired by an article in the April/May issue of BUST. I will show it off when it's done. And for anyone that cares, it's concert central here for the next couple of days. Sam Roberts is tomorrow night, and then, AND THEN!!!!!! I will be seeing the Tragically Hip at an oh, so sold out concert at a nice (read: not a stadium!) venue. This was a far fetched wish of mine to see them in a more intimate setting, and this Friday I will get to! I am so excited. This excites me more than yarn. Yeah, I know.

In lieu of my camera

2006-05-18T20:30:00.000-07:00

Isn't it pretty? With just a glance of sunlight? This picture is from a while ago. It is yarn I was test dying with Kool-aid. I thought that since I won't been able to pick up my camera from repairs until this weekend, I'd use this picture to add some green for Project Spectrum May. I really can't wait to get my camera back. My trigger finger is itchy.

In somewhat knitting-related news, I was bellydancing today. Yeah I know. What does bellydancing have to do with knitting? I will tell you. I was at my work's annual Staff Conference, in which they offer many varied courses for us workers to take, to raise morale and all that stuff. (This is where the bellydancing took place) and for some reason, when I was registering for the courses, I didn't sign up for the introduction to lace knitting. Why didn't I sign up? Because I thought it might be too basic for me. Not the right choice! I realize now that I should have signed up to socialize with fellow knitters, not just to learn new techniques. Why am I such a dummy? Oh well. But I did find out that the lady running the course is a fellow worker from the same department as my boyfriend. How about that? And wouldn't you know, she's joined Project Spectrum as well.

May is here!

2006-05-03T21:02:00.000-07:00

And so is the yarn! Thanks so much Mama E! I'm casting on right away. Can't blog, knitting.

Scanned Sock!

2006-04-30T19:21:00.000-07:00

Because my camera is still broken. Because one of my new coworkers was kind enough to give us a second hand printer/scanner/photocopier. Because it actually worked when I tried scanning the damn sock! (Seriously though, look at the detail the thing picked up. It's better than what I can get on my miserable camera anyway.)

This is what I have been working on. This little sock fits my foot and curvaceous calves like a dream. I have never knit up socks this quickly. I started them exactly a week ago and I am 3/4 done the second sock! That's right, no second sock syndrome this time! Now I'll have to get my camera fixed so I can show everyone just how well they fit.

Today, I went to the mall. To me the malls are a soulless death trap that I like to avoid. But I had to suck it up and head down to one of the largest and busiest malls to get some essentials. (No, not yarn. Shopping for yarn is never a problem!) Basically, I had run down to only a few pairs of wearable socks (which my Docs were eating up very quickly), my very last wearable bra (the only one that isn't one of the fancy dancy "wear for a short period of time before whipping it off" bras) and absolutely no wearable jeans for work. So I braved the throngs of consumer monsters and pretended like I was one of them. Makes me nauseous to think about it. So that is done. Whew. Now I can concentrate on, and wait in anticipation, the arrival of new yarn from Mama E! I am usually a big fan of instant gratification, but waiting for yarn to arrive in the mail is kinda fun.

Just for fun!

2006-04-28T07:39:00.000-07:00

Create your own Music List @ HotFreeLayouts!

This is to make up for the fact that I still haven't fixed my camera. I have been knitting though! A whole sock to be sure. I have been using the pattern posted by Diana at Streets and YOs and it works like a charm. I think I've finally got the hang of socks now.

Slack Attack

2006-04-21T16:42:00.000-07:00

Here I am, just posting from work. Like it ain't no thang. Today, my camera broke. Well, I don't know if it is permanently broken but when I switch it on, the display screen is pitch black. The other pics I have on the camera from before still show, but no display when I go to take new pics. Harumph. And I was gonna show my new started project. I am re-doing the afghan for a certain someone with a new and easier pattern. Originally I was going to do crocheted granny squares. Not really practical for a girl who can't get the motions down on crocheting. I am now knitting it in a interlac pattern and I love it! It's cheap yarn too, but so soft! And practical too since an afghan should be easy to wash. That's all for now, I will hopefully get my camera up and running soon!

Gonna get me some yarn

2006-04-09T10:19:00.000-07:00

Via Mama-E. She's offering very reasonably priced hand-dyed yarn for each month of PS. Next month is green and I can't even wait! Come on yarn!

Here comes the sun....

2006-04-04T15:40:00.000-07:00

Or at least the sunny part of Project Spectrum anyway. Here I have two new pillow covers (that I got on sale!), a wonderful painting by my dear mom of the Glass House Mountains (worked from a picture I took when I was in Australia) and some wool fleece I dyed with the leftover kool-aid I had from Supernova Sunset. That's a good start I think! I'll have to dig around and see what else I have that would be good for Orange and Yellow.

In the Spirit of the Spectrum

2006-03-28T09:02:00.000-08:00

What better day to dye yarn and roving than the day before your mom comes to visit? Why would I do that? I'm cleaning like a mad woman today! But anyway, in the spirit of the Spectrum, I have come up with this lovely colorway. How does Supernova Sunset sound? This is what happens when the cherry Koolaid I buy is the magic color changing kind (the blue) and I go ahead with it anyway. As for knitting, I have been doing only a little, and not enough for a post. So I will just leave you with this. April is coming! Orange and Yellow!

FO Ian's Mittens

2006-03-20T12:14:00.000-08:00

Ian's Mittens are done and done.

~Stats~

Pattern:
Easy Peasy Japanesy Mittens- V Knits 2006

Yarn:
Butterfly Mercerized Cotton (100% mercerized cotton) 200m/100g
I used only 3/4 of one ball.

Needles:
2.25mm metal dpns (set of 4)

Pros:
I like working with cotton since it's always no nonsense. It was interesting to watch the color patterns develop. Ian wore them to a peace rally and while holding up a banner, and realized that there was no wind blowing down his sleeves thanks to the mitts. He loves them!

Cons:
None really. They were a nice, quick knit. I should write out a pattern before I forget maybe.

I've also started a new project. I am knitting up one of the Staff Shrug patterns from the Summer 2005 IK. The pattern I am knitting is by Pam Allen.

A Thrift Trip

2006-03-12T20:05:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't like a good thrift store hunt? There's the interesting odor, the wide array of characters, the quality of music being piped in through the sound system... it's so weird it's funny. I always love going. This trip I got some pretty good finds! 5 sweaters that cost a total of $27. Pretty good for the yarn I will be harvesting! First one (the grey sleeveless turtleneck) is a 20% cashmere/ 80% wool. Second, (the black/grey cardigan) is 70% lambswool/20% angora/ 10% nylon. Third, which I got for the lovely green color is acrylic, but so pretty! Fourth, (the light blue sweater) is 70% lambswool/ 20% angora/ 10% nylon (....I am thinking lace!). And fifth is a tan colored 100% cotton, which I have discovered is knit with 2 strands of yarn, which means double the amount if I want! I have started the process of unraveling. The blue sweater and the cotton sweater are almost done and the sleeveless turtleneck is on deck. I'll hopefully do some washing and hanging tomorrow!

Does red with black count?

2006-03-09T20:47:00.000-08:00

First off, thanks to everyone for the nice comments on my Circle Shrug. This has been one of my favorite projects I have to say. If anyone else is thinking about trying it out, I say go for it! It would be really cool to see what other colorways would look like.

This is my first '-a-long' for anything. It's very wide open and not very restraining so I thought I'd give it a go. Now that being said, the March colors are Red and Pink, I've got mitts on the go for my dear boyfriend, but they are red and black. I think that is close enough, yes? It's a simple pattern off the top of my head, just because I was messing around with the yarn, to see what would happen. I actually like how they look in the photo more so than in person.

I'm on the thumbs now so it won't be long until I finish these babies off. It has snowed the last couple of days in Vancouver, so if I get these done in time, the BF will get some good use out of them.

In other news, I put in my notice today at work, because I have been hired at the Vancouver Public Library. (VPL). Very excited about that!

Circle Shrug FO

2006-03-06T19:34:00.000-08:00

Yay! Here she is folks.

~Stats~

Pattern:
Twisted Float Shrug (Circle Shrug) from the Fall 2005 Vogue Knitting Magazine

Yarn:
Noro Kureyon (100% Wool) 100m/50g
Color 138 Dyelot A (Pinks, Orange, Olive) 9 skeins
Color 148 Dyelot A (Chocolate Pink) 3 skeins

Fleece Artist Goldielocks (56% Kid/24% Silk/20% Nylon)
(I'm guessing that Goldielocks also refers to the color, since there was no color/ dyelot/ weight/ yardage.

Needles:
5.5mm circular needles in 16"/40cm, 24"/60cm, 32"/80cm length

Pros:
Do I even have to say? Look at it! It looks really cool. The idea behind the pattern is different from the usual, which is what initially attracted me to this project. Also, the sleeves are worked onto the main piece from stitches held on waste yarn, so there was no sewing the pieces together. Working with Noro yarn is always nice too.

Cons:
As I mentioned in a previous post, the damnable twisted float stitch leads to tangle and frustration. But I sucked it up. I shouldn't whine so much. Hee hee.

My favorite part

2006-03-03T18:52:00.000-08:00

Ugh. I do not like weaving in ends. After I finish a project I lose all momentum the second I realize I have to weave in the freakin' ends. And I can't block until I do that! Drives me mental sometimes! Ah! So what I'm trying to say is that the Circle Shrug is off the needles, I just need to WEAVE IN THE ENDS! and block it.

Are we there yet?

2006-02-23T20:49:00.000-08:00

One thing about the Circle Shrug. The twisted float garter stitch gets more difficult to handle as the circle grows. Why? Because the twists are kept on down the yarns as the twist is knit, then you have to do a round of garter stitch, then you have to knit the twist again, but in the opposite direction to untwist what has accumulated down the yarns. In doing this, you end up with uneven amounts of yarn after the first round of twisting. Needless to say, the twisting is a bitch. You could untwist as you go, but that is a pain too. But I am through the worst of the twisting now. I am absolutely loving the colors!