Oh my flippin'...something.
I cast on for The Man's Slippers last night.
The base pattern is Keep Away Slippers, and they are felted slippers with needle felted thrums. I am probably going to add an extra layer of knit on the bottoms to give them some extra wear.
It wasn't until I looked at the pattern (I am bad about this) and it was kind of like deciding to make cookies? And then you open the fridge, and there's no butter. Or eggs. Because these slippers assume that you use Magic Loop or two circulars. And called for the Turkish cast-on.
First of all, I am Armenian, and a Turkish ANYTHING seems excessive. I have seen people raving about it, but didn't really want to accept that the Ottoman Empire may have ever done anything that made sense.
Secondly, I have tried the "socks on two circs" method, and I hated it. The fact tat I was using my Boye Interchangeables at that point may have something to do with it, but the technique pissed me off so flippin' much that I just ended up swearing a lot and throwing it into a corner.
Thirdly, I was already going to be doing "thrumming" and needle felting, and I have zero "thrumming" experience (I think I actually said WTF are THRUMS!??) , and very limited needle felting experience. Crizzap. How many damn techniques do I have to learn?!!!
But then I thought, "OK, beeyotch, you have been knitting for a few years now. You're not exactly a bad-ass mofo in knitting terms, but you can hold your own. So hug it out, suck it up, or whatever. Quit whining and learn some new stuff. What the hell are all those books for, anyway?"
Books schmooks. It was after 9PM. I turned to the Internet, and I found this Turkish Cast-On Tutorial. Bless you, Fluffy Knitter Deb! But my work was still not done, so I went and found a great video of someone doing the Magic Loop Cast-On. You do have to scroll down a bit on that one.
I took a good look at both, and they literally turned my brain inside out and double dutch jump roped with it. It was one of those things where I wasn't going to comprehend it, but I was going to have to try to do it anyway.
In the process of casting on and having it completely BLOW MY MIND, I realized that the instructions for the pattern called for me to cast on 9 sts, but the Turkish Cast-on can only really be used (according to the tutorial) to cast on even numbers. So I just threw caution to the wind and did 10. Holy macaroni! Seamless cast-on, Batman!
I couldn't stop knitting magic loop until I got to the part where all the increases for the toe stop. By God, that is some heady stuff!
I think I may get over my sock irritation and ACTUALLY knit a pair if I can use this method.
Who knew? It's called Magic Loop because it really is magical. No joke. I still don't exactly understand it, but I think I may be in love with it, in a sixth-grade kind of a way. Like I am going to be doodling "Mrs. Jenna Magic-Loop" all over my Trapper Keeper. In Sharpie.
Monday, November 12, 2007
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Bellisima!
My Belle Cardi is going fairly smoothly, even with all the weird substitutions and surgeries I have done on it. In fact, that is why it has been taking so long. I totally had to frog a completed sleeve and then re-knit, because as usual, I decided to wing it and that sucker turned out HUGE. Rats!
Now it's redone, and it looks much nicer. I am less than an inch from starting the ribbing on sleeve number two, so it looks like I should finish this weekend. I am going to a Fresno Ravelry Knitters Meetup at Starbucks tomorrow, and I am thinking I may have to tote along a backup project! I still haven't decided on a closure, though. That's me, wishy-washy to the bitter end. Pin? Button? I-cord tie? Duct tape?
Hell, I still don't know.
In other news, I have been seduced by material goods, specifically the Knitpicks Options set in Harmony Wood. The set should be showing up on my doorstep this week. I'm so ashamed.
I did better at Barnes & Noble. I trekked back to the chaotic craft book section, which has been known to make me break out in hives, specifically so I could look at some titles that I have been thinking about ordering from Amazon. I am not freaking getting knitting books from an outlet that throws knitting, crochet, quilting and needlepoint together all higgledy-piggledy. Soon all the books will breed and intermix and start their own bastard craft, and we can't have that.
Ahem. I apologize for possibly taking that metaphor a bit too far. Moving on-
I particularly wanted to get a load of the new SN'B offering, "Son of Stitch N' Bitch", and also "Knitting With Balls." Because.....I am actually going to bite the bullet and knit something for my husband, who is 6'5" and incredibly picky. The phrase "labor of love" seems to be recycling crazily though my head, followed by, "What the feep were you thinking?!!"
Of the two, of course I have a soft spot for SN'B, and I was going to get it. BUT!! Fortunately, he was unimpressed by both books, and spent much time abusing the sweaters featured therein. There were one or two objects he liked in SN'B, but the commentary of, "but without the stripe" and "can you get rid of the design thing," and "I hate zippers" and "no hoods" and "I don't like all those cables" made me realize that I was doomed to an eternity of one-color stockinette, if I am ever to knit any item of clothing for this man. And then he will try it on, make a face, and say, "It's itchy." And then I will have to bury his cold, lifeless body in it after I stab him with one of my size 19 Lantern Moon ebony straights.
While this charming scenario was playing out in my head, fate intervened. The Man considered what he wanted, and has specifically requested some nice, safe, felted slippers for Christmas. Which is still going to take some doing, as he has size 14 feet. But still, not a (boring, one color, stockinette for miles) sweater. Hallelujah!
I actually ended up leaving the knitting book section empty-handed, escaping with one mere magazine (Knit 'N Style, Dec 2007) and one bargain book. I may have found non-man-centric knitting books that I wanted, chiefly "No Sheep For You" and the newish one by Veronik Avery. I have been a good girl and added them to my Christmas and Birthday lists.
I feel so fiscally responsible. I must go to Meg's soon and blow it all on French 75 sock yarn or something.
Now it's redone, and it looks much nicer. I am less than an inch from starting the ribbing on sleeve number two, so it looks like I should finish this weekend. I am going to a Fresno Ravelry Knitters Meetup at Starbucks tomorrow, and I am thinking I may have to tote along a backup project! I still haven't decided on a closure, though. That's me, wishy-washy to the bitter end. Pin? Button? I-cord tie? Duct tape?
Hell, I still don't know.
In other news, I have been seduced by material goods, specifically the Knitpicks Options set in Harmony Wood. The set should be showing up on my doorstep this week. I'm so ashamed.
I did better at Barnes & Noble. I trekked back to the chaotic craft book section, which has been known to make me break out in hives, specifically so I could look at some titles that I have been thinking about ordering from Amazon. I am not freaking getting knitting books from an outlet that throws knitting, crochet, quilting and needlepoint together all higgledy-piggledy. Soon all the books will breed and intermix and start their own bastard craft, and we can't have that.
Ahem. I apologize for possibly taking that metaphor a bit too far. Moving on-
I particularly wanted to get a load of the new SN'B offering, "Son of Stitch N' Bitch", and also "Knitting With Balls." Because.....I am actually going to bite the bullet and knit something for my husband, who is 6'5" and incredibly picky. The phrase "labor of love" seems to be recycling crazily though my head, followed by, "What the feep were you thinking?!!"
Of the two, of course I have a soft spot for SN'B, and I was going to get it. BUT!! Fortunately, he was unimpressed by both books, and spent much time abusing the sweaters featured therein. There were one or two objects he liked in SN'B, but the commentary of, "but without the stripe" and "can you get rid of the design thing," and "I hate zippers" and "no hoods" and "I don't like all those cables" made me realize that I was doomed to an eternity of one-color stockinette, if I am ever to knit any item of clothing for this man. And then he will try it on, make a face, and say, "It's itchy." And then I will have to bury his cold, lifeless body in it after I stab him with one of my size 19 Lantern Moon ebony straights.
While this charming scenario was playing out in my head, fate intervened. The Man considered what he wanted, and has specifically requested some nice, safe, felted slippers for Christmas. Which is still going to take some doing, as he has size 14 feet. But still, not a (boring, one color, stockinette for miles) sweater. Hallelujah!
I actually ended up leaving the knitting book section empty-handed, escaping with one mere magazine (Knit 'N Style, Dec 2007) and one bargain book. I may have found non-man-centric knitting books that I wanted, chiefly "No Sheep For You" and the newish one by Veronik Avery. I have been a good girl and added them to my Christmas and Birthday lists.
I feel so fiscally responsible. I must go to Meg's soon and blow it all on French 75 sock yarn or something.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Ravelry Revelry
I seem to have sold my soul.I have spent most of the evening (except for the hour that I devoted to watching Ugly Betty) to uploading books and stuff to my profile. If you look at my Ravelry library, you will immediately discern that I have a serious problem.
If you haven't joined Ravelry yet, click the button in my sidebar and go sign up ASAP.
Totally worth the wait!
Thursday, October 25, 2007
I'm not dead!
Here's proof:
I know, I am a dork. But I need it for my Ravelry profile!
I forsee updating this page a lot more too. I went on a slight knitting hiatus, but that seems to be over and done woth. Woot!
I know, I am a dork. But I need it for my Ravelry profile!
I forsee updating this page a lot more too. I went on a slight knitting hiatus, but that seems to be over and done woth. Woot!
Saturday, September 02, 2006
How YOU doin'?
Sorry- been watching a lot of Friends episodes.
Just wanted to say that (of course) the September issue of Mag Knits is out. I have already printed out the pattern for Honorine. Because, as we all know, I am working on two sweaters right now, having never actually finished one in its entirety. I definitely need to get cracking on one more. But it's cute, no?
Speaking of both sweaters, well....
Oh hell, I am bored. BORED. Especially with the black Wool-Ease and the 3-1 ribbing on Tubey. As much as I know I will like the finished project much more without colorful stripiness adding inches and drawing atention to my basoomas, the unending black is KILLING me. And I can't just zone out, because I am knitting in the round and it will become stockinette as soon as my mind begins to wander.
Tajah is still in its initial stages- also stockinette but the Berroco Softwist seems to have a "split personality", if you know what I mean. The stuff feels like a dream, but it is splitty. I also changed from my ratty aluminums to the Lantern Moon Ebony needles, because that stuff is also slippery as all get out, and I was dropping stitches all over the place.
Um, although I am talking about being bored, have I even touched the tree skirt? Hell no. I started another project.
Hey, I am using stash yarn, so shut up already, voices in my head!
It's the felted Pi Kitty Bed from Wendy Knits. Aha, mindless stockinette, but constantly changing striping is keeping me relatively sane. I am using different brands of wool together with wild abandon, thus tempting the forces of evil to give me something resembling a pancake at the end of this, so please say a quick prayer to the felting faeries on my behalf.
Is it sad that I am almost halfway done?
Also- The KnitPicks Options interchangeable needles I have been coveting?
They have been endorsedendorsed by none other than theYarn Harlot.
I have been holding out because, let's face it, I have 2 sets of Boye and one of Denise, not to mention my ridiculous collection of straight needles.(I was a little over-enthusiastic as a new knitter, OK?) I should probably put both sets of Boye on Ebay because I never use them, but I love my Denise set......oh hell, I need the Options too. Right? It's always good to have options.
Just wanted to say that (of course) the September issue of Mag Knits is out. I have already printed out the pattern for Honorine. Because, as we all know, I am working on two sweaters right now, having never actually finished one in its entirety. I definitely need to get cracking on one more. But it's cute, no?
Speaking of both sweaters, well....
Oh hell, I am bored. BORED. Especially with the black Wool-Ease and the 3-1 ribbing on Tubey. As much as I know I will like the finished project much more without colorful stripiness adding inches and drawing atention to my basoomas, the unending black is KILLING me. And I can't just zone out, because I am knitting in the round and it will become stockinette as soon as my mind begins to wander.
Tajah is still in its initial stages- also stockinette but the Berroco Softwist seems to have a "split personality", if you know what I mean. The stuff feels like a dream, but it is splitty. I also changed from my ratty aluminums to the Lantern Moon Ebony needles, because that stuff is also slippery as all get out, and I was dropping stitches all over the place.
Um, although I am talking about being bored, have I even touched the tree skirt? Hell no. I started another project.
Hey, I am using stash yarn, so shut up already, voices in my head!
It's the felted Pi Kitty Bed from Wendy Knits. Aha, mindless stockinette, but constantly changing striping is keeping me relatively sane. I am using different brands of wool together with wild abandon, thus tempting the forces of evil to give me something resembling a pancake at the end of this, so please say a quick prayer to the felting faeries on my behalf.
Is it sad that I am almost halfway done?
Also- The KnitPicks Options interchangeable needles I have been coveting?
They have been endorsedendorsed by none other than theYarn Harlot.
I have been holding out because, let's face it, I have 2 sets of Boye and one of Denise, not to mention my ridiculous collection of straight needles.(I was a little over-enthusiastic as a new knitter, OK?) I should probably put both sets of Boye on Ebay because I never use them, but I love my Denise set......oh hell, I need the Options too. Right? It's always good to have options.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Just keep knitting...
So- it's been forever. I actually cleaned and organized my knitting/sewing room, and am on a pretty strict yarn diet, which isn't too much fun, but I have an entire laundry basket full of unfinished projects- some totally abandoned, some actively in progress, and some that are basically lost causes and need to be frogged.
Remember that last post about the sweater I was starting?
Yes, it's a knitty pattern- check it out HERE.
I have completed the sleeves, and about 6" of the body- I omitted the stripes on the body for personal reasons, although the miles of mindless black ribbing are slowly killing me. I figured it would be a good project for SN'B and watching TV.
I also started a project from Handknit Holidays- it's a tree skirt, my first real experience with intarsia. I have been wanting to make this for awhile, but the pattern calls for....I think 14-15 skeins of Manos? I did the math and nearly had a heart attack, so I am substituting Lion Homespun- I like the texture, and the colors are pretty close. Here's someone else's rendition:
I know it's dark, but you should get the idea. I am learning intarsia as I go, and the experience is pretty addictive. This project definitely holds my attention, what with following the chart and all the different colors and untangling the bobbins. I am hoping it's all done in time for Christmas.
I am also working on a random moebius scarf, and am considering starting yet another sweater. (No, I'm not on crack!)
The pattern is Tajah- from the October '06 issue of Knit N' Style. Amazingly, I actually have the Berocco Softwist yarn to make it in my stash- not in teal, but in a gorgeous violet color. I just need to get the sparkly novelty stuff to finish it off. Yeah, I gotta get my bling.
OK- I definitely must get my digital camera back online so I can document my progress, what with all these projects going on!
Remember that last post about the sweater I was starting?
Yes, it's a knitty pattern- check it out HERE.
I have completed the sleeves, and about 6" of the body- I omitted the stripes on the body for personal reasons, although the miles of mindless black ribbing are slowly killing me. I figured it would be a good project for SN'B and watching TV.
I also started a project from Handknit Holidays- it's a tree skirt, my first real experience with intarsia. I have been wanting to make this for awhile, but the pattern calls for....I think 14-15 skeins of Manos? I did the math and nearly had a heart attack, so I am substituting Lion Homespun- I like the texture, and the colors are pretty close. Here's someone else's rendition:
I know it's dark, but you should get the idea. I am learning intarsia as I go, and the experience is pretty addictive. This project definitely holds my attention, what with following the chart and all the different colors and untangling the bobbins. I am hoping it's all done in time for Christmas.
I am also working on a random moebius scarf, and am considering starting yet another sweater. (No, I'm not on crack!)
The pattern is Tajah- from the October '06 issue of Knit N' Style. Amazingly, I actually have the Berocco Softwist yarn to make it in my stash- not in teal, but in a gorgeous violet color. I just need to get the sparkly novelty stuff to finish it off. Yeah, I gotta get my bling.
OK- I definitely must get my digital camera back online so I can document my progress, what with all these projects going on!
Saturday, August 26, 2006
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
Oh lord, it's a sweater!
Yes. I am finally working on a sweater. Hallelujah!
The pattern is from Knitty, which is a fantastic online knitting resource, and is one of my fave ways to find new (and free!) patterns.
Anyway. The back and sleeves are basically knit like a shrug, so I am almost down to the end of my first sleeve- just two inches to go. I'm hoping I won't burn out- at least the body of the sweater has stripes, but the interminable black portions of the sleeves are KILLING me.
My reward for finishing the first sleeve will be to take a picture and post it here. Yes, I am a dork.
I am hauling it along with me to Stitch N'Bitch tonight, so hopefully I'll manage the last few rows in between bites of creme brulee.
The pattern is from Knitty, which is a fantastic online knitting resource, and is one of my fave ways to find new (and free!) patterns.
Anyway. The back and sleeves are basically knit like a shrug, so I am almost down to the end of my first sleeve- just two inches to go. I'm hoping I won't burn out- at least the body of the sweater has stripes, but the interminable black portions of the sleeves are KILLING me.
My reward for finishing the first sleeve will be to take a picture and post it here. Yes, I am a dork.
I am hauling it along with me to Stitch N'Bitch tonight, so hopefully I'll manage the last few rows in between bites of creme brulee.
Friday, March 10, 2006
Im Baaaaaack....
Yes, after much though, I am diving back in over here at sweatergrrrrl. I missed knitting! I have still been quietly working away on projects, and am probably going to do a lot of updating around there this weekend. So, welcome back!
Wednesday, December 21, 2005
Ok kids...
I am definitely losing my grip on this page, despite still being active at TMWA, so I tell you what- I think I am going to incorporate the two sites.
So, if you want to stop by and take a gander at the goings on at TMWA, I will be posting all the knit-related goodness over there from now on.
Happy Holidays!
Jenna
So, if you want to stop by and take a gander at the goings on at TMWA, I will be posting all the knit-related goodness over there from now on.
Happy Holidays!
Jenna
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
Crap.
Sweater Grrrl
OK, something has happened to the SNB website, so I need to look into THAT.
In other news, Magknits has come out with a new issue: check it out!
And- I am working on my first episode of second sock syndrome. Unfortunately, I think it's a battle I am destined to lose.
OK, something has happened to the SNB website, so I need to look into THAT.
In other news, Magknits has come out with a new issue: check it out!
And- I am working on my first episode of second sock syndrome. Unfortunately, I think it's a battle I am destined to lose.
Tuesday, October 18, 2005
DONE!!!! Bhahahahahaaaaaaaaa!
Allright kids.
I finished it. (Despite reading most of the Outlander series in the intervening time as well.) It's shorter than it was supposed to be, and I refused to do the decreases on the sleeves. Oh, and I messed with the button placement. But the Einstein coat is done. Done, done DONE! Hallelujah! Pictures will be forthcoming. I always say that, don't I?
Oddly enough, I think it's more flattering on me than the existing pattern. It hits me right below the hips, instead of going down to my knees. Go figure. This is what happens when you don't swatch! (I know, I know.)
I also broke every single one of my vows and made a fluffy white beret. It's sooooo cute- I used a pattern from mag.knits, and just left off the snowflake chart. While I also thing think that the accompanying mittens are cute, I have no need of mittens in the winter in Fresno- thank heaven. I am all about the gloves.
Next on the list? I am gonna make some SOCKS, people. Well.......sort of.
Also, for those of you who don't get the knittyreader alert- knitty's fall surprises are up. Check 'em out!
I finished it. (Despite reading most of the Outlander series in the intervening time as well.) It's shorter than it was supposed to be, and I refused to do the decreases on the sleeves. Oh, and I messed with the button placement. But the Einstein coat is done. Done, done DONE! Hallelujah! Pictures will be forthcoming. I always say that, don't I?
Oddly enough, I think it's more flattering on me than the existing pattern. It hits me right below the hips, instead of going down to my knees. Go figure. This is what happens when you don't swatch! (I know, I know.)
I also broke every single one of my vows and made a fluffy white beret. It's sooooo cute- I used a pattern from mag.knits, and just left off the snowflake chart. While I also thing think that the accompanying mittens are cute, I have no need of mittens in the winter in Fresno- thank heaven. I am all about the gloves.
Next on the list? I am gonna make some SOCKS, people. Well.......sort of.
Also, for those of you who don't get the knittyreader alert- knitty's fall surprises are up. Check 'em out!
Wednesday, September 14, 2005
Makin' Stuff
Yea! I made something!!!!(Something that is not a coat.) Go figure!
In other news, the ladies want new Fresno-specific SN'B shirts. I am workig on a logo to bring with me to the meeting tonight- we'll see how it pans out.
In other news, the ladies want new Fresno-specific SN'B shirts. I am workig on a logo to bring with me to the meeting tonight- we'll see how it pans out.
Wednesday, September 07, 2005
Progress...
So, I have finished the entire body of the Einstein coat, and I am now working on my first sleeve. Oh god- I am so bored with garter stitch, I could scream.
In the meantime, stuff keeps coming up to keep me from knitting- like, oh, cleaning, and setting up my dandy new laptop....
Oh, and we have a new member of the family, as of today. She is yet to be named- any suggestions? This will give you a vague idea of what our behemoth looks like- except ours is turquoise and white, instead of red and white. It needs a lot of work and TLC...but I suspect I am gonna love cruising around when it's finally restored.
I am voting for this color scheme. I mean, dang! Wouldn't anyone?! My spoilsport husband wants to keep it original, but...after seeing that picture, I am not going to quite nagging about it anytime soon. (Turquoise and Black! Turquoise and Black!)
Anyway, the thing is a boat. You could fit about 4 bodies in the trunk. Not that I plan to, but uh, I'm just sayin'....we could baaaaarely squeak it into the garage. However, the thing needs extensive restoration, and I suspect voles are nesting in the upholstery, so this is going to be a long and exhaustive process. I will say that the chrome is still beautiful.
I got my Born To Knit T-shirt today! It is ah.....a trifle snug, but I am going to wear it tomorrow regardless.
In the meantime, stuff keeps coming up to keep me from knitting- like, oh, cleaning, and setting up my dandy new laptop....
Oh, and we have a new member of the family, as of today. She is yet to be named- any suggestions? This will give you a vague idea of what our behemoth looks like- except ours is turquoise and white, instead of red and white. It needs a lot of work and TLC...but I suspect I am gonna love cruising around when it's finally restored.
I am voting for this color scheme. I mean, dang! Wouldn't anyone?! My spoilsport husband wants to keep it original, but...after seeing that picture, I am not going to quite nagging about it anytime soon. (Turquoise and Black! Turquoise and Black!)
Anyway, the thing is a boat. You could fit about 4 bodies in the trunk. Not that I plan to, but uh, I'm just sayin'....we could baaaaarely squeak it into the garage. However, the thing needs extensive restoration, and I suspect voles are nesting in the upholstery, so this is going to be a long and exhaustive process. I will say that the chrome is still beautiful.
I got my Born To Knit T-shirt today! It is ah.....a trifle snug, but I am going to wear it tomorrow regardless.
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
I have no excuse....
Damn you, amazon.com!
Once again, been setting the old credit card on fire. I was inspired when I saw Virginia's healthy book collection, and I had to make some new additions to the knitting library (and I also got that Outlander book she kept raving about!):
Knitting On the Edge and Knitting Over the Edge, by Nicky Epstien
Weekend Knitting, by Melanie Falick
The Gift Knitter- Knitting Chunky for Babies with Four Legs & Two, by Tara Jon Manning
The Knitted Teddy Bear, by Sandra Polley
World of Knitted Toys, by Kath Dalmeny
So, if you're wondering where I am, I am probably knitting....or reading about knitting. You just never know! I plan on bringing some of these to Stitch N' Bitch tomorrow night. The "World of Knitted Toys" book is especially cute.
Oh....and I broke down and bought THIS. Sadly, it will not be here by tomorrow, but I look forward to wearing it next week!
I'd post pics of the UFO's, but since they are both coats and therefore huge and it's impossible to see progress, it would be rather pointless. But I can say that I have finished the back of my Einstein Coat, and I have a few inches on the Pierrot Coat from the most recent issue of Vogue Knitting. Woohoo!
Once again, been setting the old credit card on fire. I was inspired when I saw Virginia's healthy book collection, and I had to make some new additions to the knitting library (and I also got that Outlander book she kept raving about!):
Knitting On the Edge and Knitting Over the Edge, by Nicky Epstien
Weekend Knitting, by Melanie Falick
The Gift Knitter- Knitting Chunky for Babies with Four Legs & Two, by Tara Jon Manning
The Knitted Teddy Bear, by Sandra Polley
World of Knitted Toys, by Kath Dalmeny
So, if you're wondering where I am, I am probably knitting....or reading about knitting. You just never know! I plan on bringing some of these to Stitch N' Bitch tomorrow night. The "World of Knitted Toys" book is especially cute.
Oh....and I broke down and bought THIS. Sadly, it will not be here by tomorrow, but I look forward to wearing it next week!
I'd post pics of the UFO's, but since they are both coats and therefore huge and it's impossible to see progress, it would be rather pointless. But I can say that I have finished the back of my Einstein Coat, and I have a few inches on the Pierrot Coat from the most recent issue of Vogue Knitting. Woohoo!
Friday, August 12, 2005
Wooly bully!
If you're wondering what the hell I have been up to....
This should give you some good idea: check out some yarn pornography (Recent additions to my stash.
As you can see, I have been busy! God Bless Flickr.
You can also check out the works in progress and stuff I have recently completed.
I think I need to get one of those "Yarn ho" t-shirts. I'm just sayin'.
This should give you some good idea: check out some yarn pornography (Recent additions to my stash.
As you can see, I have been busy! God Bless Flickr.
You can also check out the works in progress and stuff I have recently completed.
I think I need to get one of those "Yarn ho" t-shirts. I'm just sayin'.
Tuesday, August 02, 2005
Stash? What stash?
Sweater Grrrl
So, yeah, I went to Fiber Arts in Oakland.
Needless to say, I went back to hit the ATM- twice. I definitely went a little psychotic. I'll update this post with pictures as soon as I get around to it, but here's a brief rundown of what I bought.
Spun Banana Fiber: Man, this stuff is cool- it looks a lot like recycled silk, and I got three BAGS of solid colors: deep red, eggplant, and electric blue. Incredibly affordable, and really soft.
2 hanks of luscious snow-white mohair. I am thinking about dyeing it down the line, we'll see how I feel later on. I have this sweater I really want to make out of it, but the idea of looking like the Stay-Puft Marshmallow Man: not appealing.
Gorgeous variegated nylon ribbon: it's magenta, silvery gray, charcoal, and a deep purple. All at the same time! *swoon* One drawback- this stuff tangles like there's no tomorrow. It came in hanks, and I made the fatal error of attempting to make it into a center-pull ball. Yeah. I don't recommend it. I was still untangling 24 hours later. What a nightmare!
Recycled silk- of course. I bought from two different vendors, and I have to say- one was a better deal, and the other was better quality. Either way, I luuurves me some recycled silk.
Funky zebra novelty yarn: we're talking, black mohair, variegated black and white fun fur, and some silver spangles, all spun into one glorious milti-strand yarn. I know this sounds like a nightmare to you novelty yarn haters out there, and all I have to say is: if RuPaul were a yarn, this would be it. And yes, to me, that is a compliment!
Black polyamide blend fuzzy stuff: so soft. So shiny. Two hanks worth. Yum.
A Ball winder! FINALLY. I have been winding like a fiend. Once again, please read the disclaimer about the nylon ribbon. That stuff is way too slippery. Everything else, works like a charm.
Vintage buttons: for all the baby stuff I seem to be making.
Yeah- that's it- we won't go into what I bought at the yearly sale at Ancient Pathways. Or the TWO purchases I made at WEBS recently. Eek!
Um, yeah, so I am knitting!
One sage green baby sweater is ready to assemble. I have a panel started on the wine colored Einstein coat I am making. I have finished the back of the cabled baby sweater- and I need to go buy another ball of Trendsetter Yarns: Dune from Meg. The wrap needs to be longer- I guess this is what happens when you decide to wing it! I also just completed my first ever felting project, and the purse in question turned out to be soooooo cute.
So, yeah- busy, busy, busy.
So, yeah, I went to Fiber Arts in Oakland.
Needless to say, I went back to hit the ATM- twice. I definitely went a little psychotic. I'll update this post with pictures as soon as I get around to it, but here's a brief rundown of what I bought.
Spun Banana Fiber: Man, this stuff is cool- it looks a lot like recycled silk, and I got three BAGS of solid colors: deep red, eggplant, and electric blue. Incredibly affordable, and really soft.
2 hanks of luscious snow-white mohair. I am thinking about dyeing it down the line, we'll see how I feel later on. I have this sweater I really want to make out of it, but the idea of looking like the Stay-Puft Marshmallow Man: not appealing.
Gorgeous variegated nylon ribbon: it's magenta, silvery gray, charcoal, and a deep purple. All at the same time! *swoon* One drawback- this stuff tangles like there's no tomorrow. It came in hanks, and I made the fatal error of attempting to make it into a center-pull ball. Yeah. I don't recommend it. I was still untangling 24 hours later. What a nightmare!
Recycled silk- of course. I bought from two different vendors, and I have to say- one was a better deal, and the other was better quality. Either way, I luuurves me some recycled silk.
Funky zebra novelty yarn: we're talking, black mohair, variegated black and white fun fur, and some silver spangles, all spun into one glorious milti-strand yarn. I know this sounds like a nightmare to you novelty yarn haters out there, and all I have to say is: if RuPaul were a yarn, this would be it. And yes, to me, that is a compliment!
Black polyamide blend fuzzy stuff: so soft. So shiny. Two hanks worth. Yum.
A Ball winder! FINALLY. I have been winding like a fiend. Once again, please read the disclaimer about the nylon ribbon. That stuff is way too slippery. Everything else, works like a charm.
Vintage buttons: for all the baby stuff I seem to be making.
Yeah- that's it- we won't go into what I bought at the yearly sale at Ancient Pathways. Or the TWO purchases I made at WEBS recently. Eek!
Um, yeah, so I am knitting!
One sage green baby sweater is ready to assemble. I have a panel started on the wine colored Einstein coat I am making. I have finished the back of the cabled baby sweater- and I need to go buy another ball of Trendsetter Yarns: Dune from Meg. The wrap needs to be longer- I guess this is what happens when you decide to wing it! I also just completed my first ever felting project, and the purse in question turned out to be soooooo cute.
So, yeah- busy, busy, busy.
Sunday, July 03, 2005
Knitting article in the Clovis Independent!
Sweater Grrrl
For anyone whose interested, this came out on July 1st- considering that I think the interview was more that two months ago (!)
But I am quoted kind of extensively, and so is Jeanette from Stitch N' Bitch. I think they mis-attributed the thing about football to me, however. I actually found a man who doesn't watch the stuff. (No, you can't have him, he's mine!) Unless it sounded like "football" when I said, "The History Channel."
Also- Stitch N' Bitch is referred to....but not by name. I think they were afraid that the good citizens of Clovis might be a little scandalized by our freedom with "the B word".
Anyway, here's the link. Enjoy!
For anyone whose interested, this came out on July 1st- considering that I think the interview was more that two months ago (!)
But I am quoted kind of extensively, and so is Jeanette from Stitch N' Bitch. I think they mis-attributed the thing about football to me, however. I actually found a man who doesn't watch the stuff. (No, you can't have him, he's mine!) Unless it sounded like "football" when I said, "The History Channel."
Also- Stitch N' Bitch is referred to....but not by name. I think they were afraid that the good citizens of Clovis might be a little scandalized by our freedom with "the B word".
Anyway, here's the link. Enjoy!
Thursday, June 30, 2005
Back from the dead- and other minor miracles
Sweater Grrrl
Holy Toledo- it's been two months. TWO MONTHS. No wonder I am getting freaked-out e-mails...although, I would definitely feel the love if I ever got any comments. I know people read this, dammit!
Ahem. OK, temper tantrums aside- I read some of my "I am so frustrated with work" posts, and I just want to hurl. I cannot believe how much things have changed. How much better I feel, and how much more positive my outlook seems to be.
Indeed, I think the buddies who used to depend on me for mordant wit are a little disappointed with the "kinder, gentler" me.
Soooo much is going on!
Knitwise: (kwise?)
Wow, I have been knitting a lot. I need to open up a flickr acct so I can share the love. Uh...I have made 10,000 iPod cozys, a recycled silk purse, a black Fun Fur stole for wintertime, a ribbon and mohair wrap (actually, two- one in brights, and one in black and white), and am in the process of making a yummy beret out of Berocco Furz.
Yes, I abandoned the red cape again. It is just way to damn hot in this town.
I also have an experimental "penguin project" in progress- however, he is my first encounter with short row shaping, and uh...he sort of looks like he has, "special needs".
He is definitely kind of lopsided and lump-esque, but I still love him. I am not sure if I am brave enough to submit him for inspection, as my husband likes to mock his appearance. Hmph.
I start teaching classes to make the fun fur techno-cozies at Michael's next month. I am sort of excited, yet terrified. And I am going to Fiber Arts next month as well!
Gawd, looking at my July calendar- There's stuff going on every weekend. Fiber Arts, co-throwing a baby shower for a friend in Woodland, Fiber Arts, teaching two knitting classes, and then takiing a few days to go to the coast with hubby for Anniversary number three.
Ok, it's late, and I am getting tired just thinking about all this!
Holy Toledo- it's been two months. TWO MONTHS. No wonder I am getting freaked-out e-mails...although, I would definitely feel the love if I ever got any comments. I know people read this, dammit!
Ahem. OK, temper tantrums aside- I read some of my "I am so frustrated with work" posts, and I just want to hurl. I cannot believe how much things have changed. How much better I feel, and how much more positive my outlook seems to be.
Indeed, I think the buddies who used to depend on me for mordant wit are a little disappointed with the "kinder, gentler" me.
Soooo much is going on!
Knitwise: (kwise?)
Wow, I have been knitting a lot. I need to open up a flickr acct so I can share the love. Uh...I have made 10,000 iPod cozys, a recycled silk purse, a black Fun Fur stole for wintertime, a ribbon and mohair wrap (actually, two- one in brights, and one in black and white), and am in the process of making a yummy beret out of Berocco Furz.
Yes, I abandoned the red cape again. It is just way to damn hot in this town.
I also have an experimental "penguin project" in progress- however, he is my first encounter with short row shaping, and uh...he sort of looks like he has, "special needs".
He is definitely kind of lopsided and lump-esque, but I still love him. I am not sure if I am brave enough to submit him for inspection, as my husband likes to mock his appearance. Hmph.
I start teaching classes to make the fun fur techno-cozies at Michael's next month. I am sort of excited, yet terrified. And I am going to Fiber Arts next month as well!
Gawd, looking at my July calendar- There's stuff going on every weekend. Fiber Arts, co-throwing a baby shower for a friend in Woodland, Fiber Arts, teaching two knitting classes, and then takiing a few days to go to the coast with hubby for Anniversary number three.
Ok, it's late, and I am getting tired just thinking about all this!
Thursday, May 05, 2005
Vacation, all I ever wanted!
Sweater Grrrl
So, I a. Quit my job. And b. regained my sanity. Amazing how that works! My last day of hel*cough* work was April first. April Fool! No, seriously. And thank heaven, because I swear, if I stayed there any longer, I was going to either eat my own head or commit a felony.
So, what the hell have I been doing? Namely, getting the house in order. It's taken two years to get this scary. I am following the tenets of Flylady - and my sink is now shiny. Which for me, is a major achievement. Sometimes, that's all I can manage, but it's enough.
And I am *gasp* writing and generally trying to live life to the fullest. I have also rediscovered how much I genuinely love my husband. It's amazing how much better we get along when I am not a stressed-out maniac. He seems to think it's worth the 50% cut in income to have a wife who is actually nice to him and cooks occasionally. Even if I am occasionally snarky with him for putting peanut-butter-encrusted utensils in my shiny sink.
So- Stitch & Bitch is now meeting weekly. Hooray! We had a small meeting tonight, and I am putting out feelers to some other local groups, so I can post info under "knitting events" on the SNB webpage. It's also time to go on a pilgrimage to the local yarn shoppe and say hi to Meg. I miss her!
I am making the time to knit- after dinner, I have my ME time scheduled. I am enjoying knitting while watching HGTV and have actually caught a few episides of Knitty Gritty on the DIY network as well. Good schtuff.
I actually revived the "Rose Red" cape project. I hate telling people I am making a cape. It just slips out, and if they are a non-knitter, they look at me like I am going to wear it with my Wonder Woman Underoos. Note to self- think cape, SAY shawl. Anyway, after I foiled my dog's attempt to unravel the whole thing, my needles have a few teethmarks in 'em, but it's going pretty smoothly, considering.
So, I a. Quit my job. And b. regained my sanity. Amazing how that works! My last day of hel*cough* work was April first. April Fool! No, seriously. And thank heaven, because I swear, if I stayed there any longer, I was going to either eat my own head or commit a felony.
So, what the hell have I been doing? Namely, getting the house in order. It's taken two years to get this scary. I am following the tenets of Flylady - and my sink is now shiny. Which for me, is a major achievement. Sometimes, that's all I can manage, but it's enough.
And I am *gasp* writing and generally trying to live life to the fullest. I have also rediscovered how much I genuinely love my husband. It's amazing how much better we get along when I am not a stressed-out maniac. He seems to think it's worth the 50% cut in income to have a wife who is actually nice to him and cooks occasionally. Even if I am occasionally snarky with him for putting peanut-butter-encrusted utensils in my shiny sink.
So- Stitch & Bitch is now meeting weekly. Hooray! We had a small meeting tonight, and I am putting out feelers to some other local groups, so I can post info under "knitting events" on the SNB webpage. It's also time to go on a pilgrimage to the local yarn shoppe and say hi to Meg. I miss her!
I am making the time to knit- after dinner, I have my ME time scheduled. I am enjoying knitting while watching HGTV and have actually caught a few episides of Knitty Gritty on the DIY network as well. Good schtuff.
I actually revived the "Rose Red" cape project. I hate telling people I am making a cape. It just slips out, and if they are a non-knitter, they look at me like I am going to wear it with my Wonder Woman Underoos. Note to self- think cape, SAY shawl. Anyway, after I foiled my dog's attempt to unravel the whole thing, my needles have a few teethmarks in 'em, but it's going pretty smoothly, considering.
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