KNITTING TIDBITS

Arizona Yarn Shops

2009-11-02T22:28:00.016-06:00

I visited a friend in Arizona last week and we hit some fun local yarn shops. The first shop we stopped at was in Surprise, a suburb of Phoenix. The shop was Needlers Nest. My lucky day! Everything in the store was 25% off! I picked up some Malabrigo sock yarn and a couple of skeins of other sock yarn. They had a wonderful selection of yarns and the staff was friendly.

Needlers Nest ~ Surprise, AZ

We headed north and found a nice yarn shop in downtown Prescott called A Good Yarn. Nice yarns, very friendly staff, but the prices weren't as good as the Surprise store we had visited. I picked up some needles that I needed and added a couple of skeins of yarn to my stash. There were two other Prescott yarn stores listed in a yarn directory, but both had closed.

A Good Yarn ~ Prescott, AZ

Our next stop was in Sedona, where we found Red Rock Knit. I was so unimpressed with the store. The store was dirty and looked like it had never seen a vacuum. The yarn selection was sparse. The woman knitting behind the counter was helpful enough, but we left without a purchase. The store needs a good overhaul, in my mind.

Red Rock Knit ~ Sedona, AZ

Our final stop was in Jerome, where we found Knit 1 Bead 2. The store was crammed full of interesting yarns and beads and accessories. The arrangement of the yarns made it really frustrating for me to shop. All yarn was displayed by color - novelty, sock, bulky, mohair, worsted, dk, and lace all on the same shelf, grouped together by color. While it was pretty to view the shades of color from a distance, I found it too much work to dig through all the different type of yarn to find something I liked. I really prefer yarn grouped by type or brand, not color. This store has potential to be a wonderful shop.

Knit 1 Bead 2 ~ Jerome, AZ

Traveling Scarf

2009-10-07T09:02:00.005-05:00

Oh, my, it's been a long time since I've posted! I've still been knitting, but am just getting back into "serious" knitting now that fall weather is here.

For the last several weeks, I have participated in a Ravelry traveling scarf project. Eight knitters each started a scarf and the scarves then traveled to all team members, who each knitted a little section. Each person got their scarf back this week and the results were amazing.

I chose a simple ribbed pattern of K2, P2 with the first stitch slipped to help it lay flat at the edge. I asked that each person use two strands of sock yarn. What a soft and squishy and colorful scarf! It's my new favorite and I'll think of those who contributed to my lovely scarf when I wear it.

Summer Dish Cloth Knitting

2009-07-15T09:09:00.006-05:00

Warm summer weather and knitting dish cloths go together like, well, summer and dish cloth knitting! Knitting dish cloths is quick, easy, and rewarding. And dish cloths make great gifts - everybody who receives one wants a couple more, so be prepared to invest in a lot of cotton.

The stack pictured above is a week's worth of evening knitting using Sugar & Cream yarn that I picked up on sale for $1 a ball. My newest favorite yarn for dish cloths, however, is something I tried from Hobby Lobby called I Love This Cotton. It is super-soft, easy to knit, and comes in cool colors. The feel is really nice - very soft and not at all rough like the Sugar & Cream. I wouldn't mind a garment out of that soft cotton yarn. I picked up a few more skeins on sale yesterday for $2 a skein and am ready to tackle another round of summer dish cloth knitting!

Ravelry Swap - "My Other Hobby"

2009-06-27T05:51:00.016-05:00

This year I've joined a couple of swaps on the online Ravelry knitting group. The one I am currently in is called "My Other Hobby" swap. The idea behind this swap is that you are assigned a secret swap partner. You send a couple of teaser notes or small packages, then the "big reveal" package where you include something from a hobby of theirs, a handmade item from one of your hobbies, some yarn and maybe a little goodie or two.

For the past two months, someone has been stalking me for this Ravelry swap :-) I've received anonymous comments on my blog saying things like "A package is winging it's way to you" and "I'm your secret Ravelry partner." My first teaser package was great - a cute tea towel from Wales with Welsh recipes on it, an adorable little tin with sewing pins inside, and some cool buttons.

My second teaser package included an embossed leather bookmark from Cambridge, a great recipe book called 101 Teatime Treats that had scrumptious looking recipes for baked goodies, and an emergency Swiss dark chocolate bar. The mystery continues!

Today I received my "big reveal" package, all the way from England! cloverpavlova, aka Jayne, sent me the most wonderful box of goodness!

Jayne included some beautiful sunflower notecards, a magnetic menu/shopping note set (perfect on my fridge), a musical notepad, and a great little notebook with a London subway map cover.

The edible goodies are fantastic! Two special curry packages (I love curry!), some orange and lemon hard candies, some organic "inspiration" tea, and Lindt and Dominican Republic dark chocolate - yum!

The "book" in the picture above is actually a card - how clever! More cool stuff... a cd of favorite songs from movies and a special breast cancer pin from England.

Beautiful, hand dyed, 100% superwash merino sock yarn from Colinette - oh my! I love the bright fuschia colorway and can't wait to knit up something pretty with this gorgeous yarn. I also received some quilting squares from one of my favorite fabric designers (Moda) in fun retro patterns. They will make a lovely quilt.

Now isn't that just the cutest handmade brooch pin you've ever seen? Jayne made that for me and I love it! I'm a big pin person, and use them on shawls, hats, purses, jackets, and tops. Love, love, love everything I received from my wonderful swap partner! Thanks so much, Jayne :-)

New Yarn Shop Discovered!

2009-06-16T19:57:00.012-05:00

This past weekend we took a little trip to Portland, OR to see our granddaughter. We had a great time and managed to cram several activities into just a few days - we saw the movie UP in 3-D, visited the Rose Garden, went shopping at the mall, took in the Saturday Market, checked out Crafty Wonderland at the Doug Fir, and went to our granddaughter's end of the year softball picnic. We also tried some fun restaurants - I loved Pok Pok's southern Thai food.

Even though we were pretty busy with our short visit, I just had to check out at least one yarn store! Sunday around 11:00 I stopped at both Yarnia and The Yarn Garden. Dang, both opened at noon. By the time I got back to yarn store shopping later in the day, I only had time to see one store. I visited The Yarn Garden on Hawthorne.

This was one of the largest yarn stores I've seen. There was a room just for patterns and books. There were three rooms FULL of yarn - alpaca yarns, sock yarn, local yarns, designer yarns, natural yarns, etc. They also had an extensive button section. I bought a few skeins of sock yarn and some yarn to make an interesting woven scarf that was on display. The sales staff was helpful and friendly. A fun shop and I was glad to have visited!

Here are some pictues of The Yarn Garden:

Not Knitting, But I've Been Busy!

2009-05-30T16:38:00.008-05:00

I've had a friend visiting for the past couple of weeks and she's a sewer, not a knitter. So we hit the sewing room and got creative with some projects. I made about 20 of these.

These bags are made from old t-shirts and are a great way to recycle your favorite t-shirt.

Then we made several of these.

I like to tuck a Starbuck's gift card in and give them for a little gift.

I also made myself a purse from a couple of fat quarters. I think I'll be doing another one of those - they're fun to do and I like the size of the purse.

Now it's time to get back to knitting!

Summer Knitting?

2009-05-20T09:13:00.003-05:00

For me, knitting has always been a cold weather activity. Knitting season has been fall through early spring and late spring and summer have been my time for "other" projects. This year, I decided that I will try to continue to knit year-round. I've got such a queue of projects and I know it will be good to get going on some of them.

Yesterday's temps hit the 90's for the first time this year and already I know I'm not going to be knitting with wool on those hot days. I picked up some cotton and made a couple of dishcloths and another swiffer cover. I hope I can keep my goal to knit year-round, but I find my sewing machine calling me to make work on a quilt. . .

Are There Really Yarn Shops in Boston?

2009-05-10T16:46:00.004-05:00

I just got back from a week in Boston. Of course I came prepared to explore local yarn shops, and had googled yarn shops in the area before I left for my trip. Armed with my printout of yarn shops, I plugged into my gps the address at 555 Armory Street for a yarn shop called Circles in Jamaica Plain. When I arrived at the building, no yarn shop was there. I checked my iphone and found a discussion that indicted the shop had moved to the city of Roslindale. Ok, I was determined, so I set my gps for the new address at 56 Murray Hill Road in Roslindale. When I arrived, I discovered the shop was in a private home. I rang the bell, but no one answered. Dang.

While in Roslindale, I struck up a conversation with a cheese shop owner who told me about a wonderful yarn shop at 4 Station Street in Brookline called A Good Yarn. I got all excited about visiting a recommended yarn shop, until she said the shop was closed on Mondays. It was Monday, of course.

Later in the week I was visiting a friend in Peabody and decided to see if there were any shops nearby. Yup, a yarn shop really close called Knit Wit Yarns at 474 Lowell Street! I high-tailed it down there only to discover it no longer was there. The shop had either moved or gone out of business.

I can't believe I struck out so many times! I came home with no new yarn, but did manage to finish a pair of socks, a couple of dish cloths, and a swiffer cover during my week in Boston. Maybe next time.....

Mankato Knitting Group

2009-04-27T08:26:00.003-05:00

There is a group called Mankato Yarn Together, which is one of the groups on Ravelry designed to let people in a specific area discuss knitting and get together for some knitting time. They meet the last Sunday of the month.

Yesterday I joined our local knitting group at Dunn Brother's Coffee for a couple hours of knitting and sharing of yarns (pun intended.) I guess anywhere from three or four to more than a dozen knitters show up each month for the monthly get-together. It was fun to meet everyone - it surprised me that I didn't know any of these knitters, since I'm always in local yarn stores and have taken several classes. Always great to see what others are working on, and there were some cool projects.

I'm still plugging away at a pair of socks I've had on my needles for a couple of months. I was three quarters of the way completed with the second sock and decided to add some length to the first one, so now I still have two unfinished socks. Knitting on planes has always been productive for me, so maybe I'll complete these when I fly to Boston later this week.

Textile Center Garage Sale

2009-04-19T09:45:00.000-05:00

The Textile Center Garage Sale in was held this past weekend in Minneapolis. I haven't really been very involved in anything at the Textile Center, since I'm 2 hours away, but this year I decided to become a member. My first event was the Garage Sale.

I volunteered to help with the Garage Sale Silent Auction items on Friday afternoon before the Friday "pre-sale" party and the Saturday sale. It went smoothly and was fun to see some of the different pieces that came through. One of the "perks" of volunteering is that you are allowed to purchase items at the end of your shift.

There were oodles of yarn and of course I picked up a bunch. Probably the most unusual yarn I got was 12 skeins of a Furlana yarn made with 80% merino and 20% possum fur. It's a yarn from New Zealand and looks interesting...... Also got some Euroflax linen, some aqua blue yarn perfect for a felted purse, and some odds and ends. All at great "garage sale" prices!

They also had knitting machines, looms, and sewing machines. I didn't see any spinning wheels, but I really don't need to start another hobby right now anyway. TONS of fabric, which I barely glanced at. Even though I'm a quilter, the rows and rows of tables were just so overwhelming that I concentrated just on yarn and didn't shop for fabric. I'll definitely be back next year!

Bismarck, ND Yarn Shops

2009-04-13T14:07:00.005-05:00

Spending a little time in Bismarck, ND recently, I decided to check out the local yarn shops one afternoon. I googled yarn shops in Bismarck and was surprised to find several listed.

The first store I visited was Impact Gallery & Gifts on Broadway, right downtown. It was a fun store with lots of local artist wares. The sales clerk was really nice and explained about the local artist offerings and also explained that the store was phasing out of yarn, but had a few skeins left in a basket in the corner. I dug through the half dozen skeins and found a couple of skeins of yarn that would work well for a market bag. They were marked half price ($5 each!) and then when I brought my purchases to the cashier, they subtracted an additional 20% from a current sale. Great price - wish they had more yarn.

Next I walked a block up Broadway and found cedesigns Yarn Shoppe. Now here was some serious yarn!
Lots of great yarn, but I was also impressed with some of the knitted display items that the owner (a very nice woman) had made. Obvious talent here! I commented on this cute wrap (pictured below) and asked if she sold the pattern. She said she hadn't written it up yet, but wanted to get more of her patterns written down so she could put them on her website. Knitting without a pattern and creating something this cool? I'm impressed. I'll be watching her website for some of her original patterns.
Another yarn shop in the area was Sage Junction Yarns, listed with a Mandan address. All I can say is, good thing I had my gps! I drove for twenty some miles in the middle of a very snowy countryside. Mona (my gps voice) finally stated "Arriving at destination on right."
I saw a brown rambler style home and pulled in the driveway. There was a small sign on the mailbox saying Sage Junction Yarns. I guess I was in the right place - there was a tiny little sign on the front door saying yarn sold. I could see in the front window and saw someone's living room, but no yarn. I felt a little funny just knocking on someone's front door, but it didn't matter, as no one was home.

Hiatus

2009-03-25T06:00:00.007-05:00

I will be unable to update my blog for a couple of weeks. I've been recruited to help with sheltering for the American Red Cross for people affected by the flooding in North Dakota. I'll be back in a few weeks. In the meantime, here are a few pics of the hundreds of folks helping to fill sandbags in Fargo.

Fabulous Felted Purse Patterns - Day 10 ~ The Bobble Bag

2009-03-25T05:00:00.001-05:00

JaneyP offers this cute spring bag called the Bobble Bag. Her free pattern and pics were posted on the Craftster forum. I've always heard that white does not felt well, but this bag seems to have had no problems felting.

Felted ‘Bobble’ Bag

Materials:

3 x 50g Balls Aran Weight 100% pure wool yarn.
Scraps of DK yarn for bobbles
Wadding and small amount of stuffing
Lining Fabric
4.5 mm Knitting Needles US 7
Knitting Needles to match yarn for bobbles
Button and elastic
Piping Cord to fit top edge

Pattern

Cast on 65 sts
SS for 8 rows
Knit 23sts Cast off 19sts Knit 23sts
Purl 23sts Cast on 19sts Purl 23sts
SS for 50 rows
Cast off 7sts at beg of next 2 rows.
SS for 20 rows
Cast on 7 sts at beg of next 2 rows
SS for 50 rows
Knit 23sts Cast off 19sts Knit 23sts
Purl 23sts Cast on 19sts Purl 23sts
SS for 8 rows
Cast off

Stitch side seams together
Stitch base seam together to form boxy shape.

FELT!!

Cut a piece of wadding to fit inside of bag below handle opening.
(like the shape of bag before stitching up)

Put into the bag.& pin in place
If the bag is ‘floppy’ even after felting, rol over the top edge of the bag, encasing the piping cord as you stitch. This gives the bag a good strong handle and edge.

Make Bobbles

Using needles to match the type of yarn you have chosen for the bobbles
Cast on 5sts
Garter stitch 7 rows
Cast off
Stitch cast on and cast off edges together
Gather round one open end and fasten off
Stuff lightly
Gather round other end fasten tightly and pull yarn through bobble to create a nice round shape. Leave tail end to sew bobble to bag.

Finishing
Stitch bobbles onto bag wherever you want, stitching through the wadding to hold it in place.

Embroider your design

Lining
Cut a piece fabric similar to the piece of wadding allowing extra to fold over top edge.
Stitch side seams and base edge.
Place inside bag folding over top edge so that it sits nicely below handle
opening.
Stitch along top of lining with a slip stitch. (if you want you can stitch your elastic loop on at the same time so you can hide the ends of the elastic)
Put a couple of stitches through base corners to hold lining down.

Stitch on a button and a loop of elastic on opposite side to fasten the bag with.

Fabulous Felted Purse Patterns - Day 9 ~ Ayla Backpack

2009-03-24T06:00:00.013-05:00

Here's an adorable backpack to knit and felt. It's offered as a free pattern at knitty.com and was designed by Jordana Paige. What girl wouldn't love this! The designer says, "This is a perfect project if you've never done colorwork before. Any messy color changes will be felted away."

model: Ayla photos: Margot Centanni, Jordana Paige

Here's the link to the free pattern: Ayla Backpack

Fabulous Felted Purse Patterns - Day 8 ~ Mitered Squares Bag

2009-03-23T06:00:00.004-05:00

This bag is beautiful! It was offered as a free pattern on the domestic sphere blog (she's moved on and no longer maintains the blog.) But what a cute purse ~ and the directions are detailed and easy to follow for a bag that looks more complicated that it is.

Felted Bag with Mitered Squares

MATERIALS
5 skeins Noro Kureyon [100% wool; 100m per 50g skein]; colorways 124 and 128
1 US size 10 [6mm]circular needle [or size to obtain gauge]
2 bamboo purse handles
stitch markers

GAUGE
13 sts and 26 rows = 4" in garter stitch.

SIZE
15 x 15 x 5 inches prior to felting
9 x 11 x 3.5 inches after felting

DIRECTIONS
The purse is worked in one piece beginning with the bottom. The diagram below shows the order in which the mitered squares that make up the bag are knit. Mitered squares are worked all in garter stitch. Even rows are worked plain, On each odd row, a double decrease is worked at the center -- this creates the square.

BOTTOM OF BAG
Cast on 32 sts using a knitted or cable cast on.

SMALL SQUARE
Row 1: K14, K2tog, place marker, K2tog, K14.
Row 2 and all following even rows: Knit.
Row 3 and all following odd rows: Knit to 2 sts before marker, K2tog, slip marker, K2tog, knit to end of row.

When 2 sts remain, remove marker and K2tog. Do not bind off last stitch.

To work second small square:
From the live stitch, pick up 15 more stitches along one side of the square [one stitch per garter ridge]. 16 sts on needle. Cast on 16 additional stitches using cable cast on -- 32 sts.

Work these 32 sts to create a second small square.

Repeat this process once again to create a third square in line with the first two.

FRONT AND BACK OF BAG
Beginning with the remaining live stitch, pick up 23 additional stitches along one long side of the bag's bottom, one stitch per garter row. The last stitch you picked up should be at the center of the piece. Cast on an additional 24 stitches [48 sts on needle].

Work the large square as you did the small one:

LARGE SQUARE
Row 1: K22, K2tog, place marker, K2tog, K22.
Row 2 and all even rows: Knit
Row 3 and all remaining odd rows: K to 2 sts before marker, K2tog, slip marker, K2tog, K to end of row.

Work a second large square above the first. This time, break yarn and pull through last st to secure.

Go back to the bottom of the bag and pick up 24 sts along the bottom of bag and 24 sts along the first large square. Work these 48 sts as described for the large square.

When this square is finished, work another above it to complete the first side of the bag. Break yarn and secure it by pulling through the last stitch.

Work the back as you did the front with 4 large squares. Referring again to the diagram for the order of squares.

SIDES OF BAG
The sides of the bag are worked in double-mitered squares which look like U shapes. The technique is very similar to the technique used above.

Beginning at the point where the bottom and front of the bag meet, count back 16 garter ridges from the bottom of the bag. Pick up 16 sts from the front of the bag, 16 sts along the bottom of the bag and 16 sts from the back of the bag.

Row 1: K14, k2tog, place marker,k2tog, k12, k2tog place marker, k2tog, k14.
Row 2 and all even rows: Knit.
Row 3 and all remaining odd rows: K to 2 sts before first marker, k2tog, slip marker, k2tog, knit to 2 sts before second marker k2tog, slip marker, k2tog, k to end of row.

When there are no longer any stitches left between the two markers, K 1 even row, then use a three needle bind off to seam remaining sts together. Break yarn and secure.

Work a second and third U above the first. The third U should come to the top of the bag.

Work the second side panel the same on the remaining side.

FINISHING
Decide which is the wrong side of the bag and work in all ends on the wrong side.

If desired, pick up 128 sts along the top of the bag (one for each stitch or garter ridge) and knit a couple of rows, then bind off loosely.

FELTING
Place finished bag in a zipped laundry bag and toss into the washer with a pair of old jeans. Put washer on "hot", "small load" and "heavy duty" settings. I ran mine through the wash cycle twice and allowed the bag to be spun out.

Block bag on appropriately sized box. and allow to dry thoroughly. This may take a couple of days.

Sew handles in place with appropriately colored heavy duty thread or yarn. Noro Kureyon is not particularly strong, so it may not be the best choice for sewing on the handles.

Fabulous Felted Purse Patterns - Day 7 ~ The Balloon Bag

2009-03-22T06:00:00.003-05:00

I love the shape of this bag, which is blocked with an inflated balloon! The i-cord at the cop edge really finishes this bag.

This pattern is another from Diane Sutliff and is offered as a free internet pattern. This bag can be knit with 3 balls of complimentary Kureyon, double stranded. You can download the pdf file here: Balloon Bag

Fabulous Felted Purse Patterns - Day 6 ~ Brown Bag

2009-03-21T06:00:00.001-05:00

Now here's a creative idea for a lunch bag! This little bag was designed by a high school student and is offered as a free pattern at knitty.com.

SIZE
One (comfortably fits a sandwich, cupcake, juice box, and small bottle of aspirin)

FINISHED MEASUREMENTS
Before Felting Width: 9 inches Depth: 7 inches Height: 13 inches Flap: 6.5 (w) x 7 (h) inches After Felting Width: 7 inches Depth: 4.5 inches Height: 7.5 inches Flap: 6 (w) x 4.25 (h) inches

MATERIALS
Cascade 128 [100% Peruvian Highland Wool; 128yd/117m per 50g skein]; color: 1208; 2 skeins 1 16-inch US #10.5/6.5mm circular needle 2 stitch markers Tapestry Needle Purse fastener or Button of your choice

GAUGE
Approx. 12 sts = 4 inches in stockinette stitch. Exact gauge is not important for this project.

PATTERN NOTES

The base of this bag is worked back and forth in garter stitch, then stitches are picked up around the circumference of the base, and the bag body is worked in the round. When the bag body is the desired height, some stitches are bound off, and the bag flap is worked back and forth. This easy project is a good introduction to both knitting in the round, and felting!

DIRECTIONS
Base CO 25 sts. Row 1: Sl 1, k to end. Repeat this row 35 times more. There should be 18 slipped sts along each side edge of the work. After last row is worked, do not turn work. Bag Body Place marker on needle at end of last row to indicate beginning of round, pick up and k 18 sts (1 st in each slipped st) along adjacent side edge of bag, pick up and k 25 sts along CO edge, pick up and k 18 sts along remaining edge of work, k to marker. 86 sts on needle. Work in the round in stockinette st until work measures 13 inches from edge of base. Next Round: BO 61 sts, k to end. 25 sts remain. Flap K 4 rows. Beginning with a P row, work in stockinette st until flap measures 7 inches. BO all sts.

FINISHING
Weave in ends. Felting Place the bag in a pillowcase and tie it closed. Set your washing machine for hot wash/cold rinse, with a low water level and the maximum level of agitation. Place the pillowcase in the washing machine, adding a small amount of detergent and a pair of old jeans or other heavy article of clothing, to provide additional agitation. Run the washing machine, checking progress regularly. When the bag has reached the desired size and density, remove it from the machine and rinse it thoroughly. Shape it with your hands, folding it to resemble a paper lunch bag. Lay it flat and leave it to dry thoroughly (this may take a day or two). Final Touches Either cut a buttonhole in the flap (reinforce it by sewing around it, if you want) and sew a button to the bag underneath, or get yourself one of those snazzy purse clasps and attach it, following the manufacturer's directions. Pattern & images © 2006 Frances Swiecki

Fabulous Felted Purse Patterns - Day 5 ~ The Little Coco Bag

2009-03-20T06:00:00.004-05:00

I love that this bag is edged in the solid color yarn. I think it makes it look much classier with the extra detail in finishing.

Diane Sutliff says she "designed this simple pattern for knitters who were looking for a crisper look in a rectangle, pleat-top handbag. The base is firmer, the transition from base to body is neater and the contrasting colors give a more tailored finish. It is a collection of tips and ideas from knitting/felting colleagues." It is offered as a free pdf pattern download. Click for the Little Coco Bag pattern.

Fabulous Felted Purse Patterns - Day 4 ~ Moda Dea Felted Bag

2009-03-19T06:00:00.005-05:00

This cute felted bag is designed by Maria Cook and offered as a free internet pattern from the Moda Dea free knitting and crocheting patterns site. The tabs are added after the purse is knitted, so would be optional if you wanted a plain bag. I like the decorative "scarf" woven through the tabs and I don't see why that couldn't be interchangeable to match your mood. I see a lot of color possibilities.

Moda Dea Felted Bag

Finished bag measures approximately 8" high x 13" wide.

MODA DEA® "Cartwheel™": 5 Balls No. 9745
Raspberries CA.

MODA DEA® "Spellbound™": 1 Ball No. 2737 Guinevere
CB.

Circular Knitting Needles: 6mm [US 10] – 24"; 6.5mm [US
11] – 24".
Two Double Pointed Needles: 6mm [US 10].

Stitch markers, yarn needle, sewing needle and thread, 1 snap,
2 small beads; Optional: "Stick It Felt", 4 gold foot brads.

GAUGE: 14 sts = 4"; 18 rows = 4" in St st with 2 strands before felting. CHECK YOUR GAUGE. Use any size needle to obtain the gauge.

NOTE: Felting is not an exact science due to the many different variables, however up to 25% of the height and 15% of the width may be lost in the felting process.

BAG: With larger circular needle and two strands of CA held together, cast on 90 sts. Join and place a stitch marker on needle to mark beg of rnds. Knit 9 rnds. Purl one rnd. Now K 35 more rnds. Change to smaller circular needle and [Knit one rnd, Purl one rnd] 3 times. Bind off in Purl.

Fold bag flat and sew the bottom seam. With wrong side facing, open the bottom of the bag to the first Purl rnd at front and back of bag – approximately 2" on each side of seam. Triangular ends are formed at each end of the seam; fold the point of each triangle to the seam and stitch in place.

Flap: With double point needles and ONE strand CA, pick up and K9 sts on center back edge of bag. K each row until flap measures 4". Bind off.

Handles (Make 2): With double point needles and two strands of CA held together, cast on 5 sts. Knit 1 row. DO NOT TURN. * Slide sts to other end of needle, move needle to opposite hand without turning and Knit. Rep from * to form a tube until approximately 16" from beg. Bind off.

Sew each end of one handle to wrong side of bag about 2" in from each side edge. Repeat with remaining handle.

Tabs (Make 4): With double point needles and ONE strand CA, cast on 6 sts. K each row until 4" from beg. Bind off.

Sew tabs in place directly below handles and about 3" below top edge of bag, sewing down only the top and bottom of each tab strip to allow for "scarf" to weave through.

Weave in all loose ends.

Felting: Place assembled bag in the washing machine in the smallest load with hottest water setting and a small amount of liquid detergent through one wash (agitation only) cycle.
(Option: 1 tablespoon of baking soda in the wash may speed
the felting process.)
Remove bag and check on amount of felting during this process. Two or more wash cycles may be needed before you will be satisfied with the effect.
Repeat until pieces are felted and bag is desired size.

Rinse in cold water to stop the felting process and to remove
the soap.

Pull pieces into shape and allow to dry away from sun or heat for a day or two.

Felting will cause a certain amount of pilling which is easily removed by brushing briskly with a hard nylon brush.

Scarf: With larger needle and one strand CB, cast on 2 sts. Work back and forth in rows. K every row inc 1 st at each end of first 3 rows – 8 sts. Work even, K every row, until 40" from beg. Dec 1 st at each end of next 3 rows – 2 sts. Bind off leaving a 4" tail. Tie a knot close to finished edge, thread a bead onto tail and tie another knot to keep bead on the yarn. Trim ends. Repeat on beg yarn end. Weave finished scarf through tabs and tie in a bow.

Sew snap pieces in place to wrong side of flap and corresponding right side of bag front.

Optional: Cut "Stick It Felt" to the size of the bottom of the bag and apply according to manufacturer's directions. Attach foot brads according to manufacturer's directions.

Fabulous Felted Purse Patterns - Day 3 ~ Felted Skull Tote

2009-03-18T06:00:00.004-05:00

Shiver me timbers! This tote would make a great bag for carrying knitting projects or just a fun bag to show the "dangerous" side of your personality. Pattern and photos are from Adrian Bizilia, who says "Print it, share it, link to it and enjoy it. Just don't take credit for it or sell it. Thank you."

Felted Skull Tote

Materials:

- MC-10 oz./ approx 500 yards worsted weight 100% wool yarn in your main color (black shown)

- CC- 2 oz./ approx. 100 yards worsted weight 100% wool yarn in contrast color (white shown)

I used vintage Coats and Clark's Red Heart 100% Virgin Wool 4 ply Knitting Worsted, but as long as you use worsted weight 100% wool you should have very similar results.

- One size 13 US circular, 32" long. I never had to switch to DPNs while decreasing for the bottom. I just pulled the excess needle cable out between two stitches at the back of the work. If you like, DPNs may be used for the latter decreases at the bottom and the i-cord.

- 4 stitch markers or scraps of contrasting yarn for this purpose

- tapestry needle to weave in ends

Size:
This pattern produces a tote approx. 17.5" x 14" before fulling and 13" tall by 10.5" wide, with 23" straps that fit nicely over the shoulder after fulling.

Download the pdf file pattern here.

Fabulous Felted Purse Patterns - Day 2 ~ Felted Purse

2009-03-17T06:00:00.006-05:00

Day 2 of the Fabulous Felted Purse patterns is a classic bag. I've seen many variations of this pattern in different sizes and different colors of yarn. The pattern below is offered at Knitting Pattern Central as a free pattern. It's St Patrick's Day - knit one in GREEN!

Be sure to read the fine print at the bottom for copyright compliance.

Felted Purse

Materials:

2 balls Paton’s Classic Wool Any 100% wool yarn will do. Do not use a superwash wool as it will not felt. Colors matter. Light colors, white, aran, natural do not felt as well as darker colors.

16” circular needle size 10 ½
2 double pointed needles size 10 ½

Purse:

With two strands of yarn held together, cast on 34 stitches. Knit back and forth in garter stitch for 34 rows. Break and finish off one strand of yarn. Now with remaining strand of yarn continue by picking up 16 stitches down short side of piece. Place one of the 3 same color markers on needle. Pick up and knit 34 stitches along long side of piece. Place another of the same color markers on needle. Pick up and knit 16 stitches along remaining short side of piece and place last of the same color markers on needle. Knit across remaining 34 stitches. Place remaining marker. This marker marks not only the corner but the row. From now on you will be knitting in the round. Knit 56 rows.

Next round: *Knit 3, bind off 3, knit 4 (includes stitch on needle after bind off), bind off 3, knit 3 ( includes stitch on needle after bind off) Slip marker.*
**Knit 7, bind off 3, knit to last 10 stitches before marker, bind off 3, knit 7 (includes stitch on needle after bind off). Slip marker.**
Repeat * to * for next short side.
Repeat from ** to ** for remaining long side.
Next round: Knit around casting on 3 stitches over every 3 stitch bind off of previous row. Leave the row marker on your needle, but remove the other markers as you go.
Knit for 8 more rows. Bind off. Weave in ends on wrong side of work.

Handles:

Make 2. Handles are made in 5 stitch I cord. Cast 5 stitches on one of the double pointed needle. Do not turn. Push stitches down to working end of needle. Pull yarn across back of work and knit. Continue in this way, pushing the stitches down to a working position at the end of the needle and pulling the yarn across the back of work. Never turn work but always have the right side facing you. Make each I cord 36” long. Bind off.

Felting:

Put your finished pieces in a pillow slip or net bag. Note: This is highly recommended as it will keep your I cord from tying itself in knots as well as keep lint from clogging your filter. Set washing machine for the smallest load, hot water wash and cold water rinse. Add a bit of detergent. Put the bag in the machine and run through a complete cycle. Some recommend putting towels, jeans or some other heavy items in with piece to be felted. The friction of items rubbing together during the process is suppose to facilitate felting. I have never found this necessary. At the end of the cycle check the purse. If properly felted the fabric should be thick and firm. You should not be able to see the individual knit stitches on the sides of bag. (The ridges of the garter stitch bottom will still be visible.) If purse does not meet those standards return to machine and run through another cycle. This time, however, check the progress every five minutes. When the purse meets your criteria, advance the machine timer to rinse and complete the wash cycle. Remove purse. Begin to shape with your hands. Pull and stretch the wool until you are satisfied with the proportions. (Note: It is not possible to give definitive measurements as felting is not a precise process.) Hold the ends of the I cord and pull, stretching them to be sure they are the same length. Place pieces on a towel away from direct sunlight. Allow pieces to dry thoroughly.

Finishing:

Thread I cord through eyelets. Tie ends on each side in overhand knot. If necessary, adjust knots to insure handles are even. If you have used a yarn that got very fuzzy during the felting process you can trim the fuzzy ends if you wish.

Fabulous Felted Purse Patterns - Day 1 ~ Felted Tab Bag & Pouch Pattern

2009-03-16T06:00:00.000-05:00

I figured it's time to check out some of those fabulous patterns for felted purses and bags. We'll start off the first day with the Felted Tab Bag and Pouch offered as a free downloadable internet pattern by Jeanne of Cleveland, OH. Her picture picture and pattern follow...love the colors!

Felted Tab Bag
Lamb’s Pride Bulky – 3 (or 4) skeins Sable, 2 (or 3) skeins Fuschia
Trendsetter’s Flora color #722 – 1 ball
Size 13 circular needles
Size 11 double pointed needles

Gauge is unimportant – this is just a bag!

Bottom of bag:
Cast on 40 stitches
Knit for 24 rows in garter stitch
Pick up 12 stitches evenly across the side of the rectangle to form the side of the bag, Pick up 40 stitches evenly across the cast on edge of the rectangle to form the front of the bag, Pick up 12 stitches evenly across the other side of the rectangle to form the other side of the bag.

Bag Body:
Join to begin knitting in the round, being careful not to twist stitches.
Knit 7 rounds Sable
Knit 3 rounds Fuschia
Knit 4 rounds Sable
Knit 3 rounds Fuschia
Knit 4 rounds Sable
Knit 3 rounds Fuschia
Knit 16 rounds Sable
Knit 8 rounds Sable & Flora
Knit 4 rounds Fuschia & Flora
Knit 7 rounds Fuschia
Last Row: Bind off 12, Knit 5, Bind off 5, Knit 5, Bind off 10, Knit 5, Bind off 5, Knit 5, Bind off 12, Knit 5, Bind off 5, Knit 5, Bind off 10, Knit 5, Bind off 5, Knit 5
Transfer remaining stitches to a stitch holder.

Bag Tabs:
For each of the 8 tabs remaining on the needle join new yarn.
Row 1: Knit 1, Knit into the front and back of stitch, Knit 1, Knit into the front and back of stitch,
Knit 1 – 7 sts on needle
Knit in garter stitch for 26 rows.
Bind off

Make 2, 30" long, 4 stitch I chords

Finishing:
Fold each tab in half. Sew end of tab to inside top of bag.
Thread 2 lengths of I chord through tabs
Sew end of each I chord together to form 2 continuous circles.

Felt.. Make sure that you felt this in a pillowcase!!!! The I chords can and will tangle in your agitator!

Matching Felted Pouch:
Leftover Lamb’s Pride Bulky in Fuschia & Sable
Leftover Trendsetter’s Flora color #722
Size 13 straight needles

Gauge is unimportant – this is just a bag!

Body of pouch:
Cast on 24 stitches in Fuschia
Knit 6 rows stockinet - Fuschia
Knit 2 rows stockinet - Sable
Knit 3 rows stockinet - Fuschia
Knit 2 rows stockinet – Sable
Knit 3 rows stockinet - Fuschia
Knit 2 rows stockinet – Sable
Knit 12 rows stockinet – Fuschia
Knit 2 rows stockinet - Sable
Knit 3 rows stockinet - Fuschia
Knit 2 rows stockinet – Sable
Knit 3 rows stockinet - Fuschia
Knit 2 rows stockinet – Sable
Knit 6 rows stockinet – Fuschia

Top flap:
Continue for remaining rows in decrease pattern:
Row 1 – Knit 2, SSK, K across to last 4 sts, K2tog, K2
Row 2 – Purl
Stripe pattern for decreases:
8 rows Fuschia & Flora
2 rows Sable & Flora
3 rows Fuschia & Flora
2 rows Sable & Flora
3 rows Fuschia & Flora
2 rows Sable & Flora
2 rows Fuschia & Flora
Bind off remaining stitches.

Finishing:
Fold body in half and sew side seams.
Felt in a pillowcase!
Line, add a snap closure at the point of the flap.

For a pdf version of Jeanne's pattern, click here.

Knitting With Toothpicks?

2009-03-13T06:00:00.008-05:00

I've been doing a couple of "altered tins" - Altoid tins turned avant-garde art. For one of my altered tin projects, I needed a very small knitted swatch and some knitting needles. Two toothpicks, two beads, a bit of yarn and voila! But can I actually knit with toothpicks? See for yourself and have a laugh.....

Another Road Trip, Another New Yarn Shop!

2009-03-11T06:00:00.003-05:00

I had to drive to Rochester yesterday (in a winter storm, no less!) but took this opportunity to stop in a yarn shop in Waseca, MN called Smitten With Knitten. Although the shop is less than 45 minutes from my home, I had never been there and was excited to explore uncharted territory.

I found the store easily, right on the main drag of this small town. The front window was decorated with lots of fun projects. As I stepped inside, my sensitive nose immediately got a whiff of that somewhat damp basement smell. Once inside the store, it was not noticeable.

There was a nice selection of yarns and quite a good selection of knitting and crocheting books. Most of the yarn shops I frequent have strictly high-end yarns and it was nice to see some of the more moderate priced yarns. I'm not talking cheap acrylic here, but just a good selection of mid-range yarns. Let's face it, who wants to pay $80 for yarn to make a market bag? It's good to see alternatives.

Besides yarn and books, there was also a section of DMC floss for crosstitch, knitting and crochet needles, and some fun accessories like Knitted By labels to put on your completed projects.

The woman who runs the store was friendly and helpful. I purchased a felted hedgehog kit and she was willing to substitute one of the yarns in the package for another, as well as give me a few extra yards so I'd have enough to complete the project. Most of the display projects in the store were knitted by the owner, and she is obviously a fantastic knitter. I was so in love with one of her large satchel bags!

Road Trip! A New Yarn Shop Discovered......

2009-03-09T06:00:00.002-05:00

This past weekend I took a road trip to Green Bay, WI. It's a six hour drive from my home town, but the weather held and I had clear skies and no snow for the drive. On Saturday, I had an extra hour free so I decided to visit one of the local yarn shops.

I decided to check out Monterey Yarn on Bellevue Street in Green Bay because it was the closest yarn shop to our hotel and I only had a short time for a visit. Boy, was I pleasantly surprised! It's a wonderful shop with tons of beautiful yarns, lots of samples made up (I love to see stuff all knitted up!) and was staffed with two very friendly and knowlegable women. I browsed around and picked up some nice natural cotton yarn, a pattern for some adorable felted baby slippers, and some cute knitting themed cards designed by Kim Cheeley. I could have spent a lot more time there and will definitely put this shop on my "must see" list if I'm passing through Green Bay again.

Knitting Should Be Fun..........Have a Laugh!

2009-03-06T07:11:00.006-06:00

A highway patrolman pulled alongside a speeding car on the
freeway. Glancing at the car, he was astounded to see that the
blonde behind the wheel was knitting! Realizing that she was
oblivious to his flashing lights and siren, the trooper cranked
down his window, turned on his bullhorn and
yelled, "PULLOVER! "NO," the blonde yelled back,"IT'S A CARDIGAN!"

Knitting Chinese

Many years ago my wife was to knitting what Tiger Woods is to golf. She designed exotic patterns with ease.

There was an occasion when we had lunch in a real Chinese restaurant (only one person spoke partial English, all menus were in Chinese). When she saw the hand-written menu she was so impressed with the calligraphy she tucked the menu in her purse. Some months later I saw the result, a stunning white sweater with the Chinese symbols hand-stitched down the front.

She received compliments galore until one cocktail party when we met a distinguished Chinese physician who asked my wife where she got the symbols. He then wanted to know if she knew what they meant.

"I'm afraid to ask," she said, "but tell me anyway."

Even she had to laugh when he told her they read, "This is a cheap dish--but good."

My First Swap

2009-03-04T06:00:00.002-06:00

I'm a member of the Ravelry online group. It's truly the next best thing to sliced bread. A few weeks ago I joined my first Ravelry swap group. It was called "The Beauty of Nature" swap. Each member was paired up with another from the group and each answered a series of questions so that your partner could get to know your likes, dislikes, and wants.

My swap partner was Laura. I cautiously stalked her online - reading posts she had made, viewing her finished projects page, asking her a few more questions, and seeing what patterns she marked as her favorites. I collected an assortment of gifts for her package and mailed it off to her last week. To be honest, I was much more concerned that she like the package I had prepared for her than vice versa. Yesterday our packages arrived at our respective homes and we opened our swap gifts.

Wow! Inside my box was the coolest Pink Floyd t-shirt bag filled with goodies!

This one definitely has special meaning to me, as Pink Floyd is my all-time favorite musical group. In fact, my Ravelry name comes from a line in their song The Wall “All in all, we’re just another brick in the wall.” How clever to make a bag for all my yarn and projects from a t-shirt!

I opened my bag and found fantastic gifts. First, the most gorgeous earth-tones yarn from Schulana. I’m thinking it would make a gorgeous cowl… And an organic cotton from a local shop that I can’t stop fondling. I think this would make a wonderful market bag to slip into my purse and carry shopping. Here’s a pic of the yarn I received:

The next thing I opened up was an original creation that really makes me smile. Laura made a felted replica of the Stone Head that is on the Pink Floyd Division Bell album cover. She designed it over a pez dispenser (I also collect pez dispensers) and it is one of the coolest things I’ve ever received! Here’s a pic, along with another shot of that cute t-shirt bag:

Wowsers, even more to come! Next I opened up a series of oh-so-fun presents. From the Moon Lantern company, a beautiful silk knitting needle holder and a little notepad holder - the cover was adorned with a yarn and knitting needle design. And to pamper myself, a mini spa set, complete with Sandlewood candle, bath fizz, a crystal, and a clay mask. Laura also made me two relaxing sound of nature cd’s…..ah, I can picture the waves rolling in on a warm night! Here’s a picture of these presents:

Am I spoiled, or what? Thanks to the best swap partner ever!! Here’s a final picture of all of my gifts:

This was so much fun I've signed up for two more knitting related swaps. I think this could become addicting........

Newly Discovered Sock Yarn

2009-03-02T06:00:00.001-06:00

I love colorful socks. Yup, the ones that don't match and have outrageously bright colors. While at a yarn store in St Paul yesterday, I came across the coolest sock yarn that definitely fits my yarn requirements for a colorful sock. I picked up two different skeins of Fleece Artist Somoko sock yarn. It's hand dyed and comes from Nova Scotia. It's 65% Merino, 20% kid, 10% nylon, 5% silk and is machine washable. I can't wait to make socks out of this cool yarn! One pair will be for me, the other for a birthday gift for my niece. Shhh! Don't tell.

Another yarn that I purchased was the Malibrigo sock yarn. It's a Superwash Merino from Uruguay that is kettle dyed. I've made a sweater out of a bulky Malibrigo, but have not used their sock yarn yet. This should make a fun pair of socks as well.

Kindle Knitting?

2009-03-01T08:16:00.001-06:00

My Kindle 2 arrived this week! So far, I'm impressed with all the fun features this electronic reader has to offer. But how can this cool reader enhance my knitting? I set out today to find out.

First, I did a search for knitting books on Amazon. Not too many were available. 71 selections came up for the term "knitting," but many were novels about knitting or books on crochet or other crafts. One of the things you can do with your Kindle is download a sample of any book for free. That way, if you like the book you can purchase it, if not, you don't waste your money. I found a book called How to Knit in the Woods: 20 Projects for the Great Outdoors by Shannon Okey. I downloaded the sample and found a comprehensive table of contents, pictures of all the projects in the book, and the first 84 pages of the book. This definitely gave me enough knowledge to determine whether I wanted to purchase the book. Add one point for Kindle knitting book sampling; subtract one for the lack of books about knitting in the Kindle store.

What about keeping patterns on the Kindle? Imagine having all of your patterns on this little machine, ready to reference whenever you like! But how well does it work?

I sent a copy of a knitting pattern in a Word document format to mykindleaccountname@free.kindle.com. Within a few minutes, the file was sent back to me in a Kindle readable format. I then plugged my Kindle into my computer and copied the file from my desktop to my Kindle. When I opened the document up on the Kindle, everything looked good and there were no problems with formatting. There is no cost for this method of transferring documents. Another option is to send the file to Amazon and have them convert it and send it directly to your Kindle for 10 cents.

A lot of my patterns are in pdf format, however, and conversion of these files is considered "experimental" by Amazon. I sent a simple pdf file of a knitting pattern to my free.kindle.com account. It was converted and sent back to me in a few minutes and was formatted perfectly, including pictures. WooHoo! No problems so far!

Another try, this time with a more complex pdf file pattern that included a chart and a boxed insert of knitting terminology. It took a mere 4 minutes to return the file. I opened it, saw the pictures, the text, and.......... nope, no chart, no boxed insert. It doesn't really bother me, since I probably wouldn't want to read chart patterns on my Kindle anyway.

The Kindle certainly opens up possibilities for referencing pattern directions on the go. As I learn more about my new toy, I'm sure I'll find other ways to use it.

Knitting on the Beach Report

2009-02-27T06:00:00.003-06:00

When I packed for Cozumel, I packed two sock projects, some yarn to do a couple of quick dish cloths and swiffer covers, yarn and pattern for an alligator scarf, and a partially completed warm wool scarf. I know, quite ambitious.

One of my goals was to teach myself to do two-at-a-time magic loop socks. I tried, got confused, and went back to my two circular needles. I think I need to see it done to grasp the whole concept, or maybe just be in a place where I can concentrate a bit more. Oh, well, someday it will happen.

What did I accomplish knitting on the beach? lol, not too much! I made one dish cloth, one sock (nope, not one pair, just one sock) and knit a bit more on the partially completed wool scarf. I had too much fun snorkeling, where we saw 30-40 different species of fish, attending a huge Carnival celebration that rivaled New Orleans Mardi Gras, and exploring the island.

Here are pics of my sort-of finished projects - the dish cloth is the pattern found here and the socks are the free Hedgerow sock pattern from Knitter's Review found here.

Knit-Out & Crochet 2009 Report

2009-02-26T06:00:00.010-06:00

I was on vacation last week, and what better way to start a vacation than to attend a knitting event! We had an early flight to Cozumel last Sunday, so decided to take in the Knit-Out 2009 at the Mall of America on Saturday.

I arrived right at 10:00am and found many knitters already cruising the first floor of the Mall. I entered at the Lego Land door and took a left. This led me to the local shop tables - The Yarn Garage, The Yarnery, Three Kittens, as well as to the Knitters Guild table. The tables weren't too crowded yet and I had a chance to look over some cool projects and products. I continued around the mall and found a few more displays and one of my favorite shops (The Yarnery) had a kiosk where I was able to pick up a long needle to try magic loop socks.

As I made my way around the Mall, I saw some knit and crochet demos but they all were full. When I came up to the Sears area, I started to see the lines. Boy, were there lines! It was obvious that this started the give-away and major vendor booth area. Lion Brand gave away a huge tote bag, Clover some glow-in-the-dark needles, and Patons a bag containing patterns and three big skeins of yarn. Lots of free patterns, magazines, tips, etc. Great giveaways, but to be honest, next year I will skip the long lines for the freebies and take in more of the knitting demos and style shows. Now that I know a bit more what to expect, I will tailor my visit next year to take advantage of some of the events that I missed.

Are there pictures, you ask? Of course!

Knitting on the Beach........

2009-02-20T06:00:00.000-06:00

I'm vacationing and knitting on the beach in Cozumel. Hopefully I'll have some finished projects to show when I return. Yes, I packed plenty of sunscreen.

10 Favorite Free Sock Patterns ~ Day 10

2009-02-19T06:00:00.007-06:00

Tidal Wave Socks

To wind up the last day of ten of my favorite free sock patterns I've found on the internet is the Tidal Wave Socks pattern. These wave-inspired socks were knit with tofutsie yarn. I've used that yarn in a different pair of socks and really liked it. It actually has soy in the yarn! The free pattern design and photos are by Deby Lake. They are offered as a free downloadable pdf file by Deby and it's located here.

10 Favorite Free Sock Patterns ~ Day 9

2009-02-18T06:00:00.006-06:00

River Rapids Socks

These subtly patterned socks were knit with Lorna's Laces in a sport weight yarn. This free Ravelry download is a pattern by Sockbug. The pdf pattern file is available for download here.

10 Favorite Free Sock Patterns ~ Day 8

2009-02-17T06:00:00.002-06:00

Fruit Loops Socks

Besides loving the name of these socks, I really like the look of the lacy ring pattern that forms down the socks. These are another free pattern offered on knitty.com and are designed and photographed by Kristi Geraci. The free knitty.com pattern link is located here and a pdf version is here.

10 Favorite Free Sock Patterns ~ Day 7

2009-02-16T06:00:00.004-06:00

Spring Forward Socks

These knit socks are a top-down, easy zigzag lace pattern. They'd look great in either solid color yarn or in a varigated yarn. Pattern and images are by Linda Welch and are available from knitty.com's free pattern archives. The free pattern link for knitty.com's website is here or a pdf file can be downloaded here.

10 Favorite Free Sock Patterns ~ Day 6

2009-02-15T06:00:00.005-06:00

Ziggy Socks

These cute socks use a Noro self-striping sock yarn and can guarantee that no two socks will be alike! The free pattern, by Meg Meredith, is available on the knitty.com free pattern archives. This sock pattern is a toe-up style. Meg's pictures really show off the cool color combinations you can get with the Noro sock yarn. A fair isle look without the charted colorwork!

The Ziggy Socks pattern is available at the knitty.com website here or as a pdf file here.

10 Favorite Free Sock Patterns ~ Day 5

2009-02-14T06:00:00.004-06:00

Megan Socks

A pretty pair of lacy socks is offered as a free pattern by Krista Werbil and is pictured below. Her socks were designed to extend wearing the socks into the summer months. The pattern is available as a free Ravelry download and is also listed on Krista's knitting-socks website as a free pattern to enjoy. A pdf download is available here.

10 Favorite Free Sock Patterns ~ Day 4

2009-02-13T06:00:00.002-06:00

My favorite free sock patterns I've found online continues......

The Diagonal Rib Socks are classic and the pattern appears quite easy to make. They have a nice, crisp look to them. This pattern is listed in the free pattern library of Knitting Daily. The pattern design and picture are by Ann Budd and utilize a four row pattern repeat. The Knitting Daily free pattern can be found here or their pdf version here.

10 Favorite Free Sock Patterns ~ Day 3

2009-02-12T06:00:00.004-06:00

Caspian Sea Socks

When I saw these socks pictured on the Knitting Daily online pattern site, I knew they had to jump to the top of my sock queue. I ordered the different colors of yarn and am armed with needles. This will be a project for our Cozumel vacation next week. I like to take something small to work on for plane rides and this will be perfect.

The pattern, designed by Priscilla Gibson-Roberts, is available as a free pattern on the Knitting Daily website. The Knitting Daily website often publishes free patterns, but you need to download them when you see them, as they don't stay on the site forever. The pattern is available from the Knitting Daily free pattern library here or their pdf file can be downloaded here.

10 Favorite Free Sock Patterns ~ Day 2

2009-02-11T06:00:00.006-06:00

Noro yarn has got to be one of the most versatible yarns and is always one I gravitate to in the yarn shops. I've used the worsted weight Noro for many projects, but just discovered how much I like the sock yarn as well.

The Stripey Noro Socks are made from Noro's self-striping sock yarn. Cute! This is is a design from Rachel Brown and is is now available as a free internet pattern on Ravelry (see fine print at the bottom of this post for copyright usage compliance.) Her pictures are shown of the finished product. Click here or here for the pattern.

© 2008 Rachel C. Brown/Porpoise Designs. All rights reserved. Pattern may not be used to create items for sale or distribution without prior written permission from the author.

10 Favorite Free Sock Patterns ~ Day 1

2009-02-10T06:00:00.001-06:00

I'm kind loving hand knit socks. I tried my first pair about a year ago and have made about 10 pairs since then. So far I haven't been too adventurous in my patterns, but feel I'm now ready to tackle some of the really cute patterns out there. For the next 10 days, I'll list 10 of my favorite free sock patterns I've found on the web. Maybe one of them will inspire you to get out some sock yarn and whip up a pair!

A friend was knitting the monkey sock pattern and I fell in love with it the first time I saw it on the needles! It's inspired by falling leaves and was created by Cookie A. Her image of the finished socks is pictured above. This is a free pattern offered on the knitty.com website (a wonderful repository for all kinds of patterns!) Here is the link to the free monkey sock pattern on knitty.com - monkey socks. If you'd rather download it as a pdf file, here is a pdf link - monkey socks pdf

FO - At Last!

2009-02-09T06:00:00.005-06:00

Well, I struck out looking for yarn shops in Las Vegas. I went armed with a list of shops, but found that they were all 8-10 miles from where we were staying. Instead, I worked a bit on a hat/scarf set and completed the project. Yay! A finished object! (FO) This one is an early birthday gift, so I'll mail it off to Gretchen this week.

I love these two patterns. The scarf is the reversible cable scarf (palindrome) and the hat is from the Three Tams patterns. The yarn is a baby alpaca in light blue and the colorwork in the hat is done with Noro Silk Garden. I added a ruffle to the scarf this time, just to add a bit of feminine flair. I've made these two patterns several times and they have to be some of my winter favorites. Here are the direct blog links to the patterns ~ Scarf and Tam.

And here's a sneak peak at the finished project .....

Las Vegas Getaway

2009-02-05T06:00:00.002-06:00

I'm in Las Vegas this week, accompanying my husband on a business trip. While he's attending meetings, I plan on visiting the area's local yarn shops. It's always great to see new ideas in knitting and I've found that many of my projects come from works I've seen displalyed at various local yarn shops. I'll post my Las Vegas yarn shop adventures when I return. In the meantime, I may just find a sunny spot outside and finish a couple of myknitting projects!

10 Day Dishcloth Countdown! Day 10 ~Blackberries Knitted Dishcloth

2009-02-04T06:00:00.004-06:00

A pretty little dishcloth pattern offered online by someone known as the Tomato Lady. It was inspired by her harvest of blackberries!

Blackberries Dishcloth

Materials: Size 6 circular needles or whatever size you prefer for working with dishcloth cotton.
Cotton worsted weight yarn

Directions:
Cast On 32 stitches
Rows 1-4: K
Row 5: [RS] K4, *[K1, YO, K1] into next st, P3, rep from * to last 4 sts, K4.
Row 6: K4, *P3tog, K3, rep from * to last 4 sts, K4.
Row 7: K4, *P3, [K1, YO, K1] into next st, rep from * to last 4 sts, K4.
Row 8: K4, *K3, P3tog, rep from * to last 4 sts, K4.
Rep rows 5-8 nine more times, or until desired size.
K 4 more rows for border.
Bind off.

10 Day Dishcloth Countdown! Day 9 ~ Lace Cable Knitted Dishcloth

2009-02-03T06:00:00.003-06:00

This is a really nice lacy cable dishcloth by Diane of Idaho. She offers the free pattern and picture on her website called Russet Lodge Custom Knits. I really like this one, as it is a bit more "elegant" than your typical dishcloth. Cables look more complex than they are, so if you haven't tried them before, this might be a good beginning cable project.

Lace Cable Dishcloth

Materials: Size 8 knitting needles, sugar 'n cream or other worsted-weight cotton yarn
Abbreviations: k=knit, p=purl, yo=yarn over (as if to knit), sl=slip (as if to knit), psso=pass slipped stitch over next stitch worked as if to cast off, k2 tog=knit two stitches together

Instructions:
Cast on 35 stitches

Border Rows 1-4: *k1, p1, repeat from * to end

Pattern Row 1 (and all odd rows) k1, p1, k1, p to 3 sts before end, k1, p1, k1.
Pattern Row 2: k1, p1, k1, k1, *yo, sl 1, k1, psso, k1, k2 tog, yo, k6, repeat from * to last 9 sts, end yo, sl 1, k1, psso, k1, k2 tog, yo, k2, p1, k1
Pattern Row 4: k1, p1, k3, *yo, sl 1, k2 tog, psso, yo, k1, sl next 3 sts to cable needle and hold to back, k3, k3 off cable needle, k1. repeat from * to last 8 sts, end yo, sl1, k2 tog, psso, yo, k3, p1, k1
Pattern Row 6: Repeat row 2
Pattern Row 8: k1, p1, k3, *yo, sl1, k2 tog, psso, yo, k8, repeat from * to last 8 sts, end yo, sl1, k2 tog, psso, yo, k3, p1, k1
Repeat pattern rows 1-8 until desired length. Then work Border rows 1-4 again and bind off, weaving in all ends.

10 Day Dishcloth Countdown! Day 8 ~ Knitted Tracks Dishcloth

2009-02-02T06:00:00.001-06:00

This dishcloth pattern forms a simple textured look by adding some purl stitches to your stockinette background. It's available as a free pattern from Knitting Pattern Central.

Knitted Tracks Dishcloth

Multiples of 10 sts

Materials:
Size 8 knitting needles
Worsted weight 100% cotton yarn

Cast on 30 sts.

Row 1: *K4, P6, repeat from * to end of row.
Row 2: Purl across.
Row 3: Knit across.
Row 4: Purl across.
Row 5: *P5, K4, P1, repeat from * across.
Row 6: Purl across.
Row 7: Knit across.
Row 8: Purl across.
Rows 9 - 32: Repeat rows 1 - 8 for 3 more times.
Rows 33 - 36: Repeat rows 1 - 4 once more.
Row 37: Bind off in a Purl stitch.

Fasten off and weave in ends.

Optional edging: Sc in each st around with a G hook doing 3 sc in each corner

10 Day Dishcloth Countdown! Day 7 ~ Garterlac Knit Dishcloth

2009-02-01T06:00:00.001-06:00

For those of you who want a challenge, here is a great little project using a garter stitch entrelac pattern. It was designed and photographed by Criminy Jickets, who made this available online as a free pattern. My first entrelac pattern was a scarf, and it wasn't nearly as difficult as I thought it would be. I'll definitely give this pattern a try.

Garterlac Dishcloth

Materials required: 1 ball of dishcloth cotton & appropriate needles

Abbreviations:
K -- Knit
K2tog -- Knit two stitches together
K-FB -- Knit into the front of the next stitch and, before removing it from the needle, knit into the back of the same stitch
SKP -- Slip one stitch knit-wise, knit 1 stitch, pass slipped stitch over
Turn -- Put the stuff in your right hand into your left hand and the stuff that used to be in your left hand into your right hand
Pick up -- Insert right hand needle from front to back into side of previous layer between two garter bumps, wrap the yarn around the needle and pull a stitch through

Directions:

Very loosely, cast on 24 stitches.

Bottom Triangle:

K 1, turn, K 1, turn.
K 2, turn, K 2, turn.
K 3, turn, K 3, turn.
K 4, turn, K 4, turn.
K 5, turn, K 5, turn.
K 6, turn, K 6, turn.
K 7, turn, K 7, turn.
K 8, do not turn.

Repeat the directions for the Bottom Triangle twice more – three triangles in total. They look a little twisted right now. Don’t worry; they’ll sort themselves out as you go along. Turn and make an Increasing Side Triangle.

Increasing Side Triangle:

K 1, turn, K-FB, turn.
K 1, SKP, turn, K-FB, K 1, turn.
K 2, SKP, turn, K 1, K-FB, K 1, turn.
K 3, SKP, turn, K 2, K-FB, K 1, turn.
K 4, SKP, turn, K 3, K-FB, K 1, turn.
K 5, SKP, turn, K 4, K-FB, K 1, turn.
K 6, SKP, turn, K 5, K-FB, K 1, turn.
K 7, SKP, do not turn.

Now make a Square.

Square:

Pick up 8 stitches along the side of the previous row, turn.
* K 8, turn, K 7, SKP, turn. *
Repeat between the *s another seven times, but do not turn at the end of the eighth repeat.

Make another Square, and then a Decreasing Side Triangle.

Decreasing Side Triangle:

Pick up 8 stitches along the side of the previous row, turn, K 8, turn.
K 6, K2tog, turn, K 7, turn.
K 5, K2tog, turn, K 6, turn.
K 4, K2tog, turn, K 5, turn.
K 3, K2tog, turn, K 4, turn.
K 2, K2tog, turn, K 3, turn.
K 1, K2tog, turn, K 2, turn.
K2tog, turn.

You are left with one stitch on the left hand needle. Transfer it to the right-hand needle. Pick up a further 7 stitches down the side of the previous row so you have 8 stitches in total, turn, and continue with the directions for Square.

Make two more Squares.

Continue adding layers in a similar manner.

The next layer will be Increasing Triangle, two Squares, then Decreasing Triangle.

The next layer will be three Squares.

The next series will be Increasing Triangle, two Squares, then Decreasing Triangle.

Now it is time to make triangles along the top. Transfer the remaining stitch to your right hand needle and proceed with Top Triangle.

Top Triangle:

Pick up 7 stitches along the side of the previous row, turn.
K 6, K2tog, turn, K 6, SKP, turn
K 5, K2tog, turn, K 5, SKP, turn
K 4, K2tog, turn, K 4, SKP, turn
K 3, K2tog, turn, K 3, SKP, turn
K 2, K2tog, turn, K 2, SKP, turn
K 1, K2tog, turn, K 1, SKP, turn
K2tog, turn, SKP.
K 1 and pass the second stitch on the right-hand needle over the first. You are left with one stitch on the right-hand needle.

Make 2 more Top Triangles, fasten off last stitch and weave in ends.

10 Day Dishcloth Countdown! Day 6 ~ Twists Knitted Dishcloth

2009-01-31T06:00:00.003-06:00

Another of the free patterns on the back of the Sugar & Cream yarn is for the Twists dishcloth pattern. It gives a nice patterned weave look and is an easy project.

MEASUREMENTS
Approx 10 ins [25.5 cm] square.

MATERIALS
Lily Sugar’n Cream Twists (56.7 g/2 oz)
1 ball of #20117 (Denim Twists).

Size 5 mm (U.S. 8) knitting needles or size needed to obtain gauge.

GAUGE: 19 sts and 25 rows = 4 ins [10 cm] in stocking st.

INSTRUCTIONS
Cast on 49 sts.
**1st row: (WS). Knit.
2nd row: K1. *K1 in next stitch in row below. K1. Rep from * to end of row.
3rd row: As 1st row.
4th row: K2. *K1 in next stitch in row below. K1. Rep from * to last st. K1.

Rep from ** until work from beg measures 10 ins [25.5 cm], ending with 1st or 3rd row of pat. Cast off knitwise.

10 Day Dishcloth Countdown! Day 5 ~ Doily Style Dishcloth

2009-01-30T06:00:00.006-06:00

Here is another of Lily's free dishcloth patterns designed for their Sugar & Cream cotton yarn line. This one forms a pretty pattern and can be knit on double point needles or two circulars.

MATERIALS: Lily Sugar’n Cream (Solids 2.5 oz/70.9 g/Ombres 2 oz/56.7 g) White.

1 set of four double-pointed needles 4.50 mm (U.S. 7)or you can use two circulars

INSTRUCTIONS
Cast on 8 sts. Divide these sts onto 3 needles. Place marker at first stitch.
Rnd 1: Knit through back of loop of each st to end.
Rnd 2: [Yfwd, K1] 8 times.
Rnd 3 and all odd rnds: Knit.
Rnd 4: [Yfwd, K2] 8 times.
Rnd 6: [Yfwd, K3] 8 times.
Rnd 8: [Yfwd, K4] 8 times.
Rnd 10: [Yfwd, K5] 8 times.
Rnd 12: [Yfwd, K6] 8 times.
Rnd 14: [Yfwd, K7] 8 times.
Rnd 16: [Yfwd, K8] 8 times.
Rnd 18: [Yfwd, K1, yfwd, K2tog, K6] 8 times.
Rnd 20: *Yfwd, K1, [yfwd, K2tog] twice, K5, rep from * to end.
Rnd 22: * Yfwd, K1, [yfwd, K2tog] 3 times, K4, rep from * to end.
Rnd 24: * Yfwd, K1, [yfwd, K2tog] 4 times, K3, rep from * to end.
Rnd 26: * Yfwd, K1, [yfwd, K2tog] 5 times, K2, rep from * to end.
Rnd 28: * Yfwd, K1, [yfwd, K2tog] 6 times, K1, rep from * to end.
Rnd 30: * Yfwd, K1, [yfwd, K2tog] 7 times, rep from * to end of rnd.
Next rnd: Purl.
Next rnd: [Inc 1 st in next st knitways, K15] 8 times. Cast off purlways loosely.

10 Day Dishcloth Countdown! Day 4 ~ Feather &andFan Knitted Dishcloth

2009-01-29T06:00:00.000-06:00

The Feather & Fan dishcloth is a pattern available on the back of Lily's Sugar & Cream cotton yarn. It has a nice, lacy look and makes a pretty dishcloth. Most of Lily's cotton yarns have dishcloth patterns printed on the back of the labels.

Feather & Fan Dishcloth

Materials: 1 ball cotton yarn, worsted weight
Size US 8 needles or size to give correct gauge

Gauge: 17 sts and 25 rows = 4" in stockinette stitch

Instructions:

Cast on 58 stitches loosely

Row 1: *K2, yfwd. K4. (K2tog) twice. K4, yfwd. K1, yfwd. K4. (k2tog) twice. K4, yfwd. K2
Rep from * once more
Row 2: K2, Purl to last 2 sts. K2.
Row 3: Knit across row
Row 4, 5, 6: Repeat first three rows. These 6 rows form the pattern.

Repeat these 6 rows 9 times more, then rows 1 and 2 once more.

Bind off.

10 Day Dishcloth Countdown! Day 3 ~ Be My Dishcloth

2009-01-28T06:00:00.001-06:00

Kristen Patay's "Be My Dishcloth" pattern is adorable. I've just started my first one, and already know I'll be making more. Kristen's free pattern and picture follow. Just in time for Valentine's Day!

Finished Measurements : 10"x10"

Materials: 1 ball Lily Sugar'n Cream Solid
US #3/3.25mm needles

Chart:
* Chart does not include the 4 seed stitch border on either side

Pattern:
Cast on 47 sts

(k1, p1) to last stitch, k1. Repeat for 6 rows

row 1: "and all odd rows" (k1,p1) 2x, K to last 4s, (p1,k1)

row 2: (k1,p1)2x, p39, (p1,k1)2x
row 4: (k1,p1)2x, p39, (p1,k1)2x
row 6: (k1,p1)2x, p6, k1, p20, k1, p11, (p1,k1)2x
row 8: (k1,p1)2x, p5, k3, p18, k3, p10, (p1,k1)2x
row 10: (k1,p1)2x, p4, k5, p16, k2, p1, k2, p9, (p1,k1)2x

row 12: (k1,p1)2x, p3, k7, p6, k1, p7, k2, p3, k2, p8, (p1,k1)2x
row 14: (k1,p1)2x, p2, k9, p4, k3, (p5, k2)x2, p7 , (p1,k1)2x
row 16: (k1,p1)2x, p2, k9, p3, k2, p1, (k2, p3)x2, k1, p3, k2, p6, (p1,k1)2x
row 18: (k1,p1)2x, p2, k4, p1, k4, p2, k2, p3, k2, p1, k2, p3, k3, p3, k2, p5, (p1,k1)2x
row 20: (k1,p1)2x, (p3, k2)x2, p2, k2, p6, k2, p3, k5, p3, k2, p4, (p1,k1)2x

row 22: (k1,p1)2x, p11, k2, p3, k1, p2, k2, p3, k7, p3, k2, p3, (p1,k1)2x
row 24: (k1,p1)2x, p10, k2, p3, k2, p1, k2, p3, k9, p3, k2, p2, (p1,k1)2x
row 26: (k1,p1)2x, p9, k2, p3, k3, p1, k2, p2, k11, p2, k2, p2, (p1,k1)2x
row 28: (k1,p1)2x, p8, k2, p3, k4, p1, k2, p2, k11, p2, k2, p2, (p1,k1)2x
row 30: (k1,p1)2x, p7, k2, p3, k5, p1, k2, p2, k5, p1, k5, p2, k2, p2, (p1,k1)2x

row 32: (k1,p1)2x, p6, k2, p3, k6, p1, k2, p2, k4, p3, k4, p2, k2, p2, (p1,k1)2x
row 34: (k1,p1)2x, p5, k2, p3, k7, p1, k2, p3, k2, p2, k1, p2, k2, p3, k2, p2, (p1,k1)2x
row 36: (k1,p1)2x, p4, k2, p3, k9, p1, k2, p5, k3, p5, k2, p3, (p1,k1)2x
row 38: (k1,p1)2x, p3, k2, p3, k11, p1, k2, p3, k2, p1, k2, p3, k2, p4, (p1,k1)2x
row 40: (k1,p1)2x, p2, k2, p3, k13, p1, k5, p3, k5, p5, (p1,k1)2x

row 42: (k1,p1)2x, p2, k2, p2, k15, p7, k1, p10, (p1,k1)2x
row 44: (k1,p1)2x, p2, k2, p2, k10, p1, k10, p2, k2, p8, (p1,k1)2x
row 46: (k1,p1)2x, p2, k2, p2, k9, p3, k9, p2, k2, p8, (p1,k1)2x
row 48: (k1,p1)2x, p2, k2, p2, k8, p2, k1, p2, k8, p2, k2, p8, (p1,k1)2x
row 50: (k1,p1)2x, p2, k2, p2, k7, p2, k3, p2, k7, p2, k2, p8, (p1,k1)2x

row 52: (k1,p1)2x, p2, k2, p3, k5, p2, k2, p1, k2, p2, k5, p3, k2, p2, k1, p5, (p1,k1)2x
row 54: (k1,p1)2x, p3, k2, p8, k2, p3, k2, p8, k2, p2, k3, p4, (p1,k1)2x
row 56: (k1,p1)2x, p4, k2, p6, k2, p5, k2, p6, k2, p2, k5, p3, (p1,k1)2x
row 58: (k1,p1)2x, p5, k8, p7, k8, p2, k7, p2, (p1,k1)2x
row 60: (k1,p1)2x, p7, k5, p9, k5, p4, k7, p2, (p1,k1)2x

row 62: (k1,p1)2x, p31, k2, p1, k2, p3, (p1,k1)2x
row 64: (k1,p1)2x, p39, (p1,k1)2x
row 66: (k1,p1)2x, p39, (p1,k1)2x
row 68: (k1,p1) to last stitch, k1 Repeat for 4 more rows
next row: bind off in pattern

Weave in ends.

10 Day Dishcloth Countdown! Day 2 ~ Diagonal Knit Dishcloth

2009-01-27T06:00:00.004-06:00

Grandmother’s Favorite with an inserted texture pattern. A tiny bit more challenging than the original but more stylish. This pattern is offered as a free internet pattern. Pattern and picture by Jana Trent.

Diagonal Knit Dishcloth

Materials:
Solid color, worsted weight cotton or linen yarn
Needles: size 6, or size to give a gauge of 4.5 sts per inch in stockinette stitch.

Terms:
SKP=Slip, Knit, Pass. Slip one stitch as if to knit; knit the next stitch; pass
the slipped stitch over the knitted stitch.

Directions:
Cast on 4 sts.
Row 1: knit
Row 2: k2, yo, knit to end.
Repeat Row 2 until there are 23 sts on needle.
Row 3: k2, yo, k9 (12 sts on right needle), yo, SKP, k remaining 10 sts.
Row 4: k2, yo, knit to end.
Row 5: k2, yo, k9, *yo, SKP. Repeat *, knit remaining 10 sts.
Row 6: as Row 4.
Repeat Rows 5 and 6, adding an additional *yo, SKP for each repeat,
until there are 55 sts (or until size desired and ending with an odd number of
sts).
Row 7: k1, k2tog, yo, k2tog, k8 (12 sts on right needle), *yo, SKP. Rep *
until 12 sts remain on left hand needle. Knit to end.
Row 8: k1, k2tog, yo, k2tog, knit to end.
Repeat Rows 7 & 8 until interior square is eliminated.
Repeat Row 8 until 5 sts remain.
Next row: k1, k2tog, k2.
Bind off.

Variations of this pattern may be knitted by substituting K2togTBL (knit 2
together through the back loop) or SSK (slip, slip, knit) for SKP in the
previous instructions.

©2008 Jana Trent

10 Day Dishcloth Countdown! Day 1 ~ Grandmother's Favorite

2009-01-26T06:00:00.007-06:00

One of the quickest and easiest knitting projects has got to be the knitted dishcloth. I love the way theses perform, wear, and look. I've made dozens and never get tired of them. So today, and for the following nine days, I'll showcase some of my favorite free dishcloth patterns.

Day 1 dishcloth is from Traditional Designs. It's a very easy diagonally knit dishcloth with eyelet border. It's one that I've made several times.

Grandmother's Knitted Dishcloth

Materials: Sugar and Cream yarn; Size 6 or 7 needles (US)

Cast on 3 stitches.
Row 1: Knit 3 stitches
Row 2: K2, yarn over (yo), K to end of row
Repeat Row 2 until you have 40-42 stitches on the needle
Next Row: Knit even
Next Row: K1, K2tog, yo, K2, K to end of row
Continue with this row until 4 stitches remain
Next row: K1, K2tog, K1
Bind off the last 3 stitches

Upcoming Knitting Events - February 2009

2009-01-24T06:00:00.004-06:00

Want to know what knitting events are scheduled for next month? Be sure to plan ahead so you don't miss one nearby!

February

5-16 Oaxaca, Mexico

Folk Art & Crafts; The Textile Traditions of Oaxaca: Coast & Valley

6-9

Embassy Suites Hotel, Nashville, TN

Nashville Needlework Market

Academy of the Sacred Hear, Bloomfield Hills, MI

Knit Michigan

7-8

Harveyville Project, Harveyville, KS

Camp Pluckyfluff Harveyville

12-15

Hotel Murano, Tacoma, WA

Madrona Fiber Arts Winter Retreat

14-15

Four Points Sheraton N, Mars, PA

Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet Festival

14-15

Mall of America, Minneapolis, MN

Knit-Out & Crochet

26-3/1

Santa Clara Conv Center, Santa Clara, CA

Stitches West 2009

Send me a comment if you know of any additional February knitting events and I'll add them to the list.

Knitted Market Bag Pattern

2009-01-23T06:00:00.003-06:00

With all of the reuse, reduce, and recycle messages finally sinking in, many of us are finally embracing the concept of bringing our own reusable bags to the grocery store. This knitted market bag would take up little space, but offers ample room for shopping purchases. This market bag pattern was designed by JoAnne Turcotte ©2000 and is offered by the Plymouth Yarn Company as a free internet pattern.

Fantasy Naturale Market Bag

Size: Approx. 16” high X 12” diameter.
Materials: 2 skeins Fantasy Naturale cotton
straight needles: sizeUS 10½ for the base;
24” circular needle- size
US 15 for the body of bag
Gauge: Approx. 2 sts = 1” over openweave pattern. Gauge is not important. Loose open weave is desired.

Base:
With smaller (straight) needles loosely cast on 25 sts. Work in garter stitch until square (about 42 rows). Square will measure about 7”X 7”. Bind off loosely, but do not cut yarn. Change to larger (circular) needle. Pick up and knit 100 sts evenly around the base (25 sts on each side).
Sides of Bag:
Place a marker on the needle to designate the beginning of the round.
Round 1: Knit.
Round 2: *(K2, YO, K2tog) repeat from * around.
Round 3: Knit.
Round 4: *( YO, K2tog, K2) repeat from * around.
Repeat the last 4 rounds until total length is about 15”, ending with round 1 or 3.

Work top as follows:
Round 1: Purl.
Round 2: Knit.
Round 3: Purl.
Make handles:
Round 4: Knit 30, bind off 15, knit 35, bind off 15, knit 5.
Round 5: Purl 30, cast on 20 over the 15 bound off sts, purl 35, cast on 20 over the 15 bound off sts, purl 5. (110 sts.)
Round 6: Knit.
Round 7: Purl.
Round 8: Bind off all stitches loosely.
Weave in all ends.

Knitting Lingo

2009-01-22T06:00:00.004-06:00

Every once in awhile I come across a knitting term that I have no idea what it means. Now I'm not talking actual knitting terms like knit, purl, or yarn over, I'm talking knitting slang or lingo. So for others who are sometimes confused and may want to know what "frogging" is or decide if you want to do a KAL, here are some knitting terms that you may find helpful ( from the Ravelry Knittinglingo page)

Ambistitcherous Having the ability to knit in two different styles

BeauFO A beautiful Finished Object
BFL blue-faced leicester, a breed of sheep
Bicraftual Someone who both crochets and knits
Bistitchual The ability to knit in two styles eg. English and Continental
BMFA Blue Moon Fiber Arts (yarn company)
BSJ Baby Surprise Jacket (pattern)

CAL Crochet ALong
CIP Crocheting In Public
Clap Clapotis (pattern)
Colorway The name or number assigned by a manufacturer to the color (or multi-colored combination) of a yarn
CPH Central Park Hoodie (pattern)
CPY Crystal Palace Yarns (yarn company)
CTH Cherry Tree Hill (yarn company)

Darn Overs (DOs) - The one’s you forget and have to tink back to. AKA @&%^#&%@!!
DB Debbie Bliss (designer and yarn company)
DPN Double Pointed Needles
DS Destash (sell unwanted yarn)

EOR End Of Row or Every Other Row
EZ Elizabeth Zimmermann (designer)

FO Finished Object
frog To rip back (for the sound “rip it, rip it”) by removing the needles from the project and pulling on the loose end of the yarn; also applies to crochet
Generally used when mistake is found below the row you are currently working, or when completely un-doing an entire project or piece. (see Tink)
frog pond a storage place for knitted and crocheted things waiting to be frogged
FSOT For Sale Or Trade

Gifted The act of giving yarn/items to another for free.
GOFO A GOrgeous Finished Object

ISO In Search Of

KAL Knit ALong
KIP Knit(ting) In Public
KL Knitting Loom
KP Knit Picks (yarn company)

LK Loom Knitting
LPW Lamb's Pride Worsted (yarn)
LYS Local Yarn Store
LYSO Local Yarn Store Owner

MK Machine Knit(ting)
muggle non-knitter

NoTN Not On The Needles
NWT New With Tags

OTH On The Hooks
OTN On The Needles

PIF Paying It Forward (or Pay It Forward)
PIGS Projects In Grocery Sacks
Pooling When one color in a Variegated yarn bunches together in an area.
Puddling According to the Yarn Harlot, similar to pooling, but more like a blotch.

SABLE Stash Acquisition Beyond Life Expectancy
SEX Stash Enhancement eXperience = buying yarn
SIP sock(s) in progress
Skank funny way of saying skein of yarn (skein+hank=skank)
STR Socks That Rock (yarn)
SWTC South West Trading Company (yarn company)

Tink To undo knitted stitches by reversing the knitting motion, effectively un-knitting the stitch. Used when fixing an error on the same row you are knitting. (tink is knit spelled backwards) (see also Frogging)

TOAD Trashed Object Abandoned in Disgust

UFO UnFinished Object (usually a WIP that has been abandoned or neglected)

WIM Work In Mind
WIP Work In Progress
WoTA Wool of the Andes (yarn)
WPI Wraps Per Inch (number of times yarn will wrap loosely around ruler or similar tool in one inch; more wraps indicates thinner yarn)

yarn barf (yarf?) a big lump of yarn that accidentally gets pulled out of a new center-pull ball, when you’re trying to find the end
Yarnie independent dyer or spinner with a small business

Knitted Swiffer Mop Cover

2009-01-21T06:00:00.001-06:00

Ok, one of the strangest patterns I've come across in the past couple of weeks was for a Swiffer mop cover. But the more I thought about it, the more I decided it was more practical than strange. Especially since we had hardwood floors put in last fall. I'm getting out my swiffer every couple of days, and have been using those disposable sheets. A washable, reusable Swiffer pad really IS a good idea!

I searched for patterns for these and decided to use Green Mountain Mama's Swiffer Cozy pattern. In part, I chose this one because it won an honorable mention in the Whiplash Competition Color theme. And I liked the way it attached to the Swiffer.

I picked up some Sugar & Cream yarn and had my Swiffer Cozy finished in just a couple of hours. It works great, especially for little tufts of cat hair my kitty leaves around.

Green Mountain Mama's Swiffer Cozy

The pattern is based on the dishcloth pattern that is on the back of Sugar & Cream yarn. It's known as the Textured Slip Stitch Dishcloth or in the Mason Dixon Knitting book as the Ballband Dishcloth. The free Sugar & Cream Pattern is printed below, with Green Mountain Mama's additional pattern instructions to turn this into a Swiffer cover.

MATERIALS:
Worsted weight machine washable wool or cotton yarn - two contrasting colors or you can use up leftovers or stash yarns.
US 7 Needles or size to give correct gauge
4 buttons

GAUGE:
18 sts and 32 rows = 4"

PATTERN:
With color A, loosley cast on 45 stitches

Row 1: Using A, knit across row

Row 2: Purl across row

Row 3: Join color B, k4, slip 1 purlwise, *k5, sl 1 purlwise; rep from * to last 4 sts, k4

Row 4: K4, yarn forward (yf), slip 1 purlwise, yarn back (yb),
*k5, yf, slip 1 purlwise, yb; rep from * to last 4 sts, k4

Row 5: p4, yb, slip 1 purlwise, yf, *p5, yb, slip 1 purlwise, yf, rep from * to last 4 sts, p4

Row 6: Repeat Row 4

Row 7: Using A, knit across row

Row 8: Purl across row

Row 9: Using B, k1, slip 1 purlwise, *k5, slip 1 purlwise; rep from * to last st, k1

Row 10: K1, yf, slip 1 purlwise, yb, *k5, yf, slip 1 purlwise, yb; rep from * to last st, k1

Row 11: P1, yb, slip 1 purlwise, yf, *p5, yb, slip 1 purlwise, yf; rep from * to last st, p1

Row 12: Repeat Row 10

Repeat these rows 3 times for Swiffer cover
(For dishcloth, repeat 5 times, then rep rows 1 through 8, then bind off looseley)

For Swiffer cover, you will now have 6 rows of bands, which is just enough to cover the base of your Swiffer.

Knit one row
Purl one row
Knit one row

Start Tabs:
Change color if you'd like, knit 15 stitches, bind off next 15 stitches, knit 15 stitches.
Work these 15 stitches in garter stitch (k each row) for 16 rows

Buttonhole row:
Knit 3 stitches, k2tog, yo, k5, k2tog, yo, knit 3 stitches.
Knit three rows and bind off these 15 stitches.

Tabs:
There should still be 15 sts on your needle for the other tab. Work 16 rows in garter stitch, repeat buttonhole row instructions, knit three rows and bind off.

For the other two tabs, pick up 15 stitches from right side, work 19 rows of garter stitch (k each row) and bind off.
Pick up 15 stitches form the left side, work 19 rows of garter stitch and bind off.

FINISHING:
Try it on your Swiffer and note where the buttons need to be sewn onto the tabs. Sew on the buttons and Swiffer away!

Presidential Knits - Obama inspired creations

2009-01-20T06:00:00.013-06:00

In honor of the Inauguration of the 44th President of the United States, today I'll showcase some of the Presidential knits that some very talented and creative people have made. These pictures were found on various blogs and search engines. I'm sure there are many more out there, but these are some of my favorites.

Laura Birek designed the "Obama-rama" raglan sweater. How beautiful!

A talented Minnesotan made these adorable "Gnomes for Obama."

Katie Park created this pattern and knit an Obama doll.

Jean Carter created and knit the Obama felted bag.

C Jane Knits has pics of her finished Obama knits on her blog pattern page:

Laura Chamberlain made an intricate Obama message scarf called "Inspiration." Look at the detail!

Lisa Millan has created a pattern for a dishcloth with President Obama's image!

And finally, My Savannah Cottage offers the Bark Obama dog sweater pattern. Maybe this will be the new fashion trend for the Obama family's new puppy :-)

Make a Swift - Swiftly!

2009-01-19T06:00:00.005-06:00

Have your own swift? A friend showed off the coolest swift that fits compactly into a little travel case. She had received the homemade swift as a Christmas gift last year and her father had found the plans to make the swift online.

So I did a bit of digging online and found a few sites that offered plans to build a swift. I carefully printed out the plans that looked the best, presented them to my husband, and said "This is what I want for my birthday." Well, my birthday came and I received a beautifully made swift. Now, if you must know, my husband didn't make it. He ran out of time and he said the tools required were packed away in the storage shed. But he found the swift on etsy.com and I'm the lucky recipient of a nice birthday gift. I have to say, I've used it a lot already, and find it so handy.

For those of you who are interested in making a swift, the site that had wonderful directions and a great looking swift (pictured above) was instructables.com The link to the pdf file with pictures and construction instructions is here:
http://www.instructables.com/id/SewUseful:-Portable-Tabletop-Yarn-Swift-for-windi/?download=pdf
(And for those who don't care to make their own swift, there is a link there to purchase one on etsy)

A Week of Knitted Hats! Day 7 - The Unoriginal Knit Hat

2009-01-17T06:00:00.013-06:00

Sometimes you gotta try something new! Stephanie Pearl-McPhee of the Yarn Harlot designed this cute hat she calls An Unoriginal Hat. She's made her pattern available as a free download. Stephanie's picture and pattern follows... Looks like an easy cable hat project - can't wait to try it.

An Unoriginal Hat

Materials: I skein Blue Moon Fiber Arts "Leticia" (Mine is in the colourway "Rooster Rock")
5 double pointed needles, size 7mm.

Gauge: about 12 stitches to 10cm, measured over cable pattern.
Size: It fits me (ladies small) and Meg (ladies medium) If you wanted a bigger one, you could go up a needle size.

Hat: Cast on 56 stitches, and distribute evenly (14 stitches on each needle) over 4 needles. This hat is worked in the round.

Set up row: *K4, P3, K4, P3 repeat from * around. (The set up and cable pattern runs over 14 stitches, so if you divide it onto 4 needles you will work the set up sequence and the chart once on each needle. Simple)

Work rows 1-16 of the chart twice, then the rest of the chart.
Break yarn, thread through remaining stitches, pull tight and fasten off. (Note: Until I can figure out how to fix it on the chart, please note that on row 20 , stitch 9 should be "no stitch". You'll end up with 4 stitches across the row.)

Click for Cable Chart (hold the CTRL key and use your mouse scroll button to make image larger)

A Week of Knitted Hats! Day 6 - The Thorpe

2009-01-16T06:00:00.003-06:00

Now THIS is a hat for our cold Minnesota winters! As the temps this week may not make it up to zero, I decided this had to be my next hat project. I whipped this up in an evening - a really fast knit with the bulky yarn. Kristen Kapur designed this adorable "helmet" style hat. Her cool hat pattern follows. . . . . .
(See fine print at the bottom of this post for copyright usage compliance.)

The Thorpe

MATERIALS:
Yarn : Malabrigo Chunky 1(1, 2) Skeins
Contrast band and braids about half a skein

Needles: One pair US 9(5.5mm), 16” circular and one set of 5 US size
9(5.5mm) DPN’s or size to obtain gauge.
Crochet Hook: G (4.5mm)

GAUGE:
Hat: 14.5 stitches = 4” in stockinette

SIZE:
S, M, L

FINISHED MEASUREMENTS:
17.5(20, 22)” /44(50,56) cm

PATTERN DIRECTIONS:

Crown
Using DPN’s, cast on 4 stitches. Place one stitch on each of 4 needles, Join to work in the round.

Round 1: Knit into front and back (Kfb) of each stitch (8 stitches total) You may place stitch markers between each stitch at this point to mark the location of your increases.
Round 2: Kfb of each stitch (16 stitches total)
Round 3: *(Kfb, knit 1) repeat from * to end of round (24 stitches total)
Round 4: *(Kfb, Knit 2) repeat from * to end of round (32 stitches total)
Round 5: Knit
Round 6: *(Kfb, Knit 3) repeat from * to end of round (40 stitches total)
Round 7: Knit
Round 8: *(Kfb, Knit 4) repeat from * to end of round (48 stitches total)
Round 9: Knit
Round 10: *(Kfb, Knit 5) repeat from * to end of round (56 stitches total)
Round 11: Knit

When the hat gets too big to work easily on the DPN’s you may switch to the circular needle.

Round 12: *(Kfb, Knit 6) repeat from * to end of round (64 stitches total)
**Stop increasing here for size small.
Round 13: Knit
Round 14: *(Kfb, Knit 7) repeat from * to end of round (72 stitches total)

**Stop increasing here for size medium.

Round 15: Knit
Round 16: *(Kfb, Knit 8) repeat from * to end of round (80 stitches total)

**Stop increasing here for size large.

All Sizes: Continue to work in the round in stockinette stitch until the hat measures 6 (6.5,7)” from top.

Brim
Begin to work in garter stitch (one row knit, one row purl) until you have 4 (4,5) garter ridges. (A garter ridge is made up of two rounds, one knit and one purl.)

Next round (on a knit round): bind off 24(28, 30) stitches, knit to end of round.

Begin to work back and forth. Note that the slipped stitches at the beginning of the following rows will give you a clean edge to crochet into.

Next row (WS): Slip 1, knit to end.
Next row (RS): Slip 1, ssk, knit to last 3 stitches, k2tog, k1.
Next row (WS): Slip 1, knit to end.
Next row (RS): Slip1, ssk, knit 10(11,12), place these 12(13,14) stitches on a holder, bind off 12(14,18), knit to 3 stitches from the end, k2tog, k1. 12 (13, 14) stitches remain on the needle.

Earflaps
Continue in garter stitch, slipping first stitch and working back and forth on the 12(13,14) stitches that remain on the needle for a total of 10(11,11) garter ridges (including the ridges in the brim).

Next row (RS): Slip1, ssk, knit to last 3 stitches, k2tog, k1. Next row (WS): Slip 1, knit to end.
Next row (RS): Slip1, ssk, knit to last 3 stitches, k2tog, k1.
Next row (WS): Slip 1, knit to end.
Next row: Bind off.

Place remaining stitches on needles, attach yarn and make second earflap. Weave in ends.

Crochet Border
Using contrast yarn, half double crochet into each stitch all the way around, join the last stitch to the first and weave in the ends.

Braids
Cut 6 pieces of yarn 40” long. Loop the pieces through each of six crochet stitches at the bottom of the earflaps. Braid the pieces to desired length, and trim the ends neatly.

Copyright 2007 by Kirsten Kapur for Through the Loops. This pattern is intended for private use only. The pattern, photos and products made from the pattern may not be used for commercial purposes with out the written consent of the designer.

A Week of Knitted Hats! Day 5 - Three Tams

2009-01-15T00:20:00.000-06:00

Angela Sixian Wu designed three adorable tams. My version of her Tam C is pictured above. These are free internet patterns available from knitty archives. I've made two of the tams and love them - definitely one of my favorite hats! Because you use a self-striping contrast color yarn, it's a really easy "fair isle" look.

FINISHED MEASUREMENTS:

Brim Circumference (unstretched, before blocking): 18 inches
Tam Circumference (unstretched, before blocking): 24 inches
After blocking with a 10.5 inch diameter plate, the finished tam will have a circumference of 33 inches (10.5 inches in diameter).

MATERIALS:

Worsted weight yarn - 1 skein (I used Blue Sky Suri Merino)

Noro Silk Garden yarn - 1 skein

RECOMMENDED NEEDLE SIZE:
(1) 16-inch US#4/3.5mm circular needle
(1) 24-inch US#6/4mm circular needle
US#6/4mm double-point needles
(Always use a needle size to give the gauge listed)

Stitches:

S2KP: Slip next 2 sts together knitwise, as if working a k2tog; k next st, pass slipped sts over. Forms a centered double decrease.

Corrugated Rib (Worked in the round over an even number of sts):
Set-up Round: [K1 using MC, k1 using CC] to end.
Pattern Round: [K1 using MC, p1 using CC] to end.
Repeat Pattern Round for Corrugated Rib

PATTERN:

Using 16-inch US#4/3.5mm circular needle and MC, CO 96 sts.

Place marker and join to begin working in the round, being careful not to twist.

Work 7 rounds in Corrugated Rib.

Next Round: Using MC, [k4, m1] to end.

Switch to 24-inch US#6/4mm circular needle and work all rounds of chart.

Except where otherwise noted, chart is worked 6 times in each round.

When last round of chart is complete, 6 sts remain. Break yarn.
Draw tail through remaining sts and pull tight.

PATTERN NOTES:
The decreases are a bit tricky....the decrease is a centered double decrease. You need to slip two stitches to the working needle as if you were going to knit them together (insert from the side of the second stitch), then knit the next (third) stitch and pass the two slipped stitches over the knitted one. Before you do this maneuver, you need to slip the last stitch of the previous row over before you knit it; the previous row is one stitch shorter than it would otherwise be. It's helpful to identify the exact stitch that needs to be on top for the decrease and ensure that it's that stitch that you insert the needle through when you slip two as if to k2tog. Rearrange the stitches as the row juncture to make it happen.

FINISHING:
Soak tam in water with a small amount of a gentle soap. Rinse, and squeeze gently to remove excess water.

Stretch tam over 10 1/2" dinner plate, positioning the tam carefully so that the pattern is centered. Allow to dry completely.
*** I find the 10 1/2" dinner plate is a wee bit large. I'd go 9 1/2" to 10".

A Week of Knitted Hats! Day 4 - Palindrome Hat

2009-01-14T06:00:00.001-06:00

Palindrome Hat

This hat follows the same principles as the Palindrome Scarf (see A Week of Scarves - Day 5). It's got reversible cables, so will look great with the brim rolled up or left down. This is a design from Kristin Bellenhumeur and is is now available as a free internet pattern (see fine print at the bottom of this post for copyright usage compliance.)

Materials:
Heavy worsted weight yarn, approx 200 yards (130g)
Needles: Size 8 circular needle, 16 or 24 inches long. (Or size needed for gauge)
Size 8 DPNs (or longer circular for Magic Loop)
Cable needle
Gauge: 19 stitches and 24 rows in 4 inches over stockingette.

This hat is one size, but given the stretchy nature of ribbing, it will fit most teens and adults. You could reduce the yarn and needle size for a smaller hat.

Directions:
Cast on 120 stitches, place stitch marker, and join in the round.

Round 1: *K2, P2* around
Rounds 2-5: Repeat Rnd 1
Round 6: *K2, P2, C8F* repeat around.
Repeat rounds 1-6 two times more. Piece should measure approx 3 inches long.

*KEY*
C8F: Slip 4 sts to a cable needle and hold to front, K2, P2, then K2, P2 from the cable needle.

Continue in K2, P2 rib pattern (no more cables) until piece measures 8 inches long from cast on.
Next round: [K2, P2] for 20 sts, place marker. Repeat around. 6 stitch markers total.
(Note: It is wise to make the first stitch marker a different color than the rest to distinguish the beginning of the round.)

Begin decreases:
Round 1: *K2tog, P2, [K2, P2] to next stitch marker, slip marker*. Repeat around.
Round 2: *K1, P2tog, [K2, P2] to next marker, slip marker*. Repeat around.
Round 3: *P2tog, [K2, P2] to next marker, slip marker*. Repeat around.
Round 4: *K2tog, K1, P2, [K2, P2] to next marker, slip marker*. Repeat around.

Repeat rounds 1-4 until there are 8 stitches between stitch markers or 48 stitches total, switching to DPNs, 2 circulars or a Magic Loop when necessary.

Round 5: *K2tog, P2tog, K2, P2, slip marker*. Repeat around.
Round 6: *P2tog, K2tog, P2, slip marker*. Repeat around.
Round 7: *K2tog, P2tog, remove marker*. Repeat around.
Cut yarn leaving a 12" tail. Thread needle and pull yarn through all remaining stitches. Pull snug and weave in tails.

The cables on the brim are reversible so you can wear the hat with the brim folded up or down.

All content and photos are © Kristin Bellehumeur. All rights reserved.
You may print this pattern for personal, non profit use, as long as it is printed from www.cometosilver.com. And yes, you may sell your finished knitted hat! :)

A Week of Knitted Hats! Day 3 - Calorimetry Knit Headband

2009-01-13T06:00:00.001-06:00

This buttoned headband would look great on those who have long hair. Although my hair is not long, I still think this is one of the coolest hats! This will definitely be one of my winter projects this year. This is another knitty archive hat and is available as a free internet pattern. Pattern & images © 2006 Kathryn Schoendorf.

FINISHED MEASUREMENTS:
Length: Stretches to 24 inches

MATERIALS:
1 skein worsted weight yarn
1 pair US #8/5mm straight needles or size to give correct gauge
2 stitch markers
Safety pin (optional)
Tapestry needle
1 button (Buy the button after the project is completed, to determine the size needed.)

GAUGE:
20 sts / 22 rows = 4 inches in 2x2 Rib, lightly stretched

PATTERN NOTES:
The project is worked using short rows. To work short rows, work to the point indicated in the pattern, then turn your work around and begin working back in the other direction. Holes will form in your work at the turning points of the short rows; don't worry! This is to be expected. One of these holes will be used as a buttonhole when the project is completed.

The pattern uses 2 stitch markers to help you keep track of your short rows. The first half of the piece is worked in short rows which progressively decrease in length, the second half in short rows which progressively increase in length.

2x2 Rib (Worked back and forth over a multiple of 4 sts):
Row 1: [K2, p2] to end.
Repeat this row for 2x2 Rib.

*** It is very important to obtain the correct gauge for this piece. If worked to the gauge stated above, your Calorimetry will be 24 inches long. If you want a shorter piece, you can either cast on fewer stitches, or work at a smaller gauge. For example, using sport weight yarn (on smaller needles) worked at a gauge of 24 sts = 4 inches will yield a piece that is 20 inches long.

It is also very important to consider the characteristics of the yarn you are choosing. Best results will be obtained from a yarn that is springy and resilient, which will retain the elasticity of the ribbing. Do not use a yarn which will lose its shape, becoming drapey and flaccid with wear.

*** Some who have made this pattern have used a smaller needle size and cast-on fewer stitches (80-100 instead of 120.) If you want this headband narrower, repeat row 5 and 7 fewer times.

DIRECTIONS:

CO 120 sts.
Row 1: Work all sts in 2x2 Rib.
Row 2: Work in 2x2 Rib as set to last 2 sts, turn work.
Row 3: Sl 1, work 3 sts, place marker, work to last 2 sts, turn work.
Row 4: Sl 1, work 3 sts, place second marker, work to next marker, turn work.
Row 5: Remove marker, sl 1, work 3 sts, replace marker, work to next marker, turn work.
Repeat Row 5 fifteen times more.
Row 6: Do not remove marker. Sl 1, work to next marker, turn work. 44 sts between markers; 38 sts at each side of piece, outside of markers.
Row 7: Sl 1, work to marker, remove marker, work 4 sts, replace marker, turn work.
Repeat Row 7 seventeen times more. 2 sts remain outside markers at each end of the piece.
Row 8: Sl 1, work to marker, remove marker, work last 2 sts.
Work 1 more row, removing final marker.

Loosely BO all sts.

A Week of Knitted Hats! Day 2 - Clamber (Irish Hiking Scarf companion)

2009-01-12T06:00:00.009-06:00

The Clamber hat was designed by Laura Wilson-Martos to compliment the Irish Hiking Scarf (see A Week of Scarves - Day 1.) Adorable! Like the scarf, it looks much more difficult than it really is. This is a free internet pattern - see fine print at the bottom of this post for copyright usage compliance.

Clamber©

Materials:
Yarn: Misti International Misti Alpaca Sport [100% baby alpaca; 50g. 146yds/ball] 1 ball; Red Fiesta Melange
Needles: 1 set US size 4 [3.50 mm] DPNs and/or
1 US size 4 [3.5mm] 16”circular or
1 US size 4 [3.5 mm] 32” cable for magic loop
Gauge: 24 sts = 4" stockinette stitch

Terms & Stiches:
pm - place marker to indicate beginning of round
C6F - Slip 3 sts to cable needle and hold in front. K3, then knit the 3 sts off cable needle
C4F - Slip 2 sts to cable needle and hold in front. K2, then knit the 2 sts off cable needle
C2F - Slip 1 stitch to cable needle and hold in front. K1, then knit the stitch off cable needle
SSK - Slip one stitch as if to knit, slip the next stitch as if to purl, knit the two together through the back loops.
K2tog - Knit 2 together
P2tog - Purl 2 together

Directions:
• Provisionally CO 16 stitches
• Begin Brim Cable Repeat as follows:

Row 1 (WS) P3, K2, P6, K2, P3
Row 2 (RS) K3, P2, K6, P2, K3
Row 3 Repeat row 1
Row 4 K3, P2, C6F, P2, K3
Row 5 Repeat row 1
Row 6 Repeat row 2
Row 7 Repeat row 1
Row 8 Repeat row 2

• Repeat rows 1- 8 until piece measure 21” or approximate head circumference, ending on row 7.
• Remove provisional cast-on and graft ends to form a band.
• Pick up and knit 132 stitches completely around one of the outside edges of the band you just made
• Begin Hat Cable Repeat:
Round 1: pm [K2, P2, K6, P2] 11 times
Round 2: [K2, P2, K6, P2] 11 times
Round 3: Repeat row 1
Round 4: Repeat row 2
Round 5: Repeat row 1
Round 6: Repeat row 2
Round 7: Repeat row 1
Round 8: [K2, P2, C6F, P2] 11 times

• Repeat Rounds 1-8 until piece measures a total of approximately 6”, ending on row 3

Next Row: [K2, P2, SSK, K2, K2tog, P2] 11 times (110 sts)
Row 2: [K2, P2, K4, P2] 11 times
Row 3: [K2, P2tog, C4F, P2tog] 11 times (88 sts)
Row 4: [K2, P1, K4, P1] 11 times
Row 5: [K2, P1, SSK, K2tog, P1] 11 times (66 sts)
Row 6: [K2, P1, K2, P1] 11 times
Row 7: [K2tog, P1, C2F, P1] 11 times (55 sts)
Row 8: [K1, P1, K2, P1] 11 times
Row 9: [K1, P1, SSK, P1] 11 times (44 sts)
Row 10: [K1, P1, K1, P1] 11 times
Row 11: K2tog all around (22 sts)
Row 12: K2tog all around (11 sts)
Row 13: [K2tog] 5 times (6 sts)

• Break yarn and thread through remaining loops twice, removing them from needle.
• Snug it up tight and secure ends.
• Weave in ends and block lightly, being careful not to overblock. Overblocking will eliminate the 3-dimensional look of the cap.

Pictures and pattern by Laura Wilson-Martos - © Copyright 2008 Laura Wilson-Martos and Dizzy Blonde Designs all rights reserved. This pattern is provided for your personal use only. You may not sell this pattern, nor sell the items made using this pattern.

A Week of Knitted Hats! Day 1 - Basic Hat Pattern

2009-01-11T06:00:00.002-06:00

I had fun with the "Week of Scarves" posts, so I thought I'd do the same with hats. My first hat post will be directions for a basic hat pattern. I've used this one a few times, changing a few things here and there to customize my hat. I'm working on a basic hat pattern now and I've added a couple of inches to the length so that I can have a wide rolled edge. However you decide to customize your hat, these directions will give you the basics for a correct fit.

Basic Hat Pattern

Materials: approximately 3 oz. skein of yarn

Needles: 16 circular needles or dp needles in a size that corresponds to the yarn you are using

Do the Math: Do a gauge swatch sample in stockinette stitch. Measure how many stitches you have per inch. This will be "A".

Measure how many inches around you'd like your hat to be (adults are typically around 20"-22"). Subtract 1" to 2" from this number, depending on whether you want a snug or looser fit. This will be "B".

Take "A" (nbr of stitches per inch) times "B" (your inches around minus 1-2"). This will be "C". Add or subtract a little from "C" until this number is divisible by 10. This is your new "C".

Add or subtract a little from "C" to make it divisible by 4. This is "D".

The difference between "C" and "D" is "E".

Directions: Cast on "D" stitches. Working in the round, do knit 2, purl 2 ribbing until the ribbing is desired length. If the hat is to be worn with the ribbing folded up, make the ribbing long enough to be folded (approximately 6" for adult size).

After the ribbing, work in stockinette stitch. Increase or decrease "E" so that you have "C" stitches on the needle. Continue to work in stockinette until the hat (from the cast on edge or fold of the brim) measures 5 1/2" for child, 6" for teen, 6 1/5" for women, or 7" for men.

To decrease for the top of the hat:
K8, k2tog around
K two rounds even
K7, k2tog around
K two rounds even
K6, k2tog around

Continue in this decrease pattern. When you get dow to around half of "D", decrease every round.
Last round: K2tog around. Break yarn, draw through remaining stitches.

*If your number of cast on stitches ("D") is divisible by 9, start your decreases for the top of the hat with K7, k2tog...
*If your number of cast on stitches ("D") is divisible by 8, start your decreases for the top of the hat with K6, k2tog...
*If your number of cast on stitches ("D") is divisible by 7, start your decreases for the top of the hat with K5, k2tog...
*If your number of cast on stitches ("D") is divisible by 6, start your decreases for the top of the hat with K4, k2tog...

Just the cutest little free bib patterns!

2009-01-10T06:00:00.013-06:00

I came across some really cute free bib patterns the other day and decided I just had to make a couple. The pictured bib is the Modern Cabled Baby Bib pattern by Andrea Pomerantz. She offers this as a free internet pattern. I did mine in a blue Lion cotton yarn with size 6 needles (I knit loosely!) This one would fit the newborn or new baby. Have fun - these are a quick knit and easy to do.

I've also included three other bib patterns from a very talented Elaine Fitzpatrick. These are in my queue to knit. Wouldn't these make a cute baby shower gift?

Modern Cabled Baby Bib

Materials:
Size US8 needles
1/2 skein of Debbie Bliss Pure Cotton or Lily Sugar & Cream or Lion Cotton
3/4" to 1" button

Gauge: approx. 5 sts/inch and 7 rows/inch in seed stitch

Pattern:
Cast on 28 stitches
Row 1 (rs): (k1, p1) 10 times, [k1, p1, k4, p1, k1]
Row 2 (ws): [k1, k1, p4, k1, k1], (p1, k1) 10 times
Row 3: repeat row 1
Row 4: repeat row 2
Row 5: (k1, p1) 10 times, [k1, p1, C4B, p1, k1]
Row 6: repeat row 2
Continue with this 6-row repeat until length of bib is approx. 6", ending with a ws row.

Next row (rs): Bind off 20 stitches in k1, p1 pattern. On the remaining 8 stitches, continue working the six-row cable repeat (the sections above in brackets) until strap is 9" long from cast-off edge. End with row 6 of the cable repeat.

Next row (rs): Work buttonhole as follows: k1, p1, k1, yo, k2tog, k1, p1, k1.
Work two more rows (rows 2 and 3) of cable repeat, then bind off loosely and weave in ends. Sew a cute button with coordinating thread to the top corner of the seed stitch square, and you're done!

Abbreviations:
rs = right side
ws = wrong side
C4B = slip 2 stitches onto a cable needle and hold to back of work. Knit 2 stitches off the left needle, then knit the 2 stitches off cable needle.

Steggie Bib

Materials: One skein of worsted weight cotton such as Sugar and Cream or
Peaches & Crème if you are using the bib for meals. If, on the other hand, you
want to use it as a “drool” bib, try a superwash wool. The
cotton has a tendancy to absorb the moisture, whereas the superwash wool will
wick the moisture and keep baby nice and dry!
Needles: Size 6
Gauge: 4.5 sts. per inch, not critical
Note: The edges of the bib are worked in a garter stitch border over the first and
last five stitches (knit every row). You might find it helpful to insert a marker
after the first five stitches and before the last five stitches.
When you reach the I-cords on the bib, it is helpful, but not necessary, to drop
down a needle size to make the cords slightly smaller.

Directions:
Cast on 15 stitches.
Row 1: p1, k1 across row.
Row 2: Cast on 3 stitches, k1, p1, across row. (18 sts.)
Row 3: Cast on 3 stitches, k1, p1 across row. (21 sts.)
Row 4: Cast on 3 stitches, p1, k1, across row. (24 sts.)
Row 5: Cast on 3 stitches, p1, k1, across row. (27 sts.)
Row 6: Cast on 2 stitches, p1, k1, across row. (29 sts.)
Row 7: Cast on 2 stitches, p1, k1, across row. (31 sts.)
Row 8: Cast on 2 stitches, p1, k1, across row. (33 sts.)
Row 9: Cast on 2 stitches, p1, k1, across row. (35 sts.)
Row 10: Cast on 2 stitches, p1, k1, across row. (37 sts.)
Row 11: Cast on 2 stitches, p1, k1, across row. (39 sts.)
Row 12: p1, k1 across row.
Row 13: p1, k1 across row.
Row 14: p1, k1 for 12 sts.; p15; k1, p1 for 12 sts.
Row 15: p1, k1 for 11 sts.; k17, p1, k1, for 11 sts.
Row 16: p1, k1 for 10 sts.; p19; k1, p1 for 10 sts.
Row 17: p1, k1 for 9 sts.; k21, p1, k1, for 9 sts.
Row 18: p1, k1 for 8 sts.; p23; k1, p1 for 8 sts.
Row 19: p1, k1 for 7 sts.; k25, p1, k1, for 7 sts.
Row 20: p1, k1 for 6 sts.; p27; k1, p1 for 6 sts.
Row 21: p1, k1 for 5 sts.; k29, p1, k1, for 5 sts.
Row 22: p1, k1 for 5 sts.; p29; p1, k1 for 5 sts.
(Note: From this point on, the first and last five stitches are the seed stitch
border. (p1, k1, p1, k1, p1 = B5) It might be helpful to place a marker for
these stitches.)
Row 23: B5; k29; B5.
Row 24: B5; p29; B5.
Row 25: B5; k1; p6; k3; p5; k3; p5; k6; B5.
Row 26: B5; p6; k5; p3; k5; p2; k5; p3; B5.
Row 27: B5; k4; p4; k2; p4; k3; p6; k6; B5.
Row 28: B5; p8; k4; p4; k3; p1; k4; p5; B5.
Row 29: B5; k5; p16; k8; B5.
Row 30: B5; p8; k15; p6; B5.
Row 31: B5; k6; p15; k8; B5.
Row 32: B5; p8; k16; p5; B5.
Row 33: B5; k4; p19; k6; B5.
Row 34: B5; p1; k25; p3; B5.
Row 35: B5; k2; p26; k1; B5.
Row 36: B5; p1; k26; p2; B5.
Row 37: B5; k1; p23; k1; p2; k2; B5.
Row 38: B5; p2; k26; p1+; B5.
Row 39: B5; k1; p25; k3; B5.
Row 40: B5; p7; k16; p2; k3; p1; B5.
Row 41: B5; k1; p2; k2; p18; k6; B5.
Row 42: B5; p6; k19; p4; B5.
Row 43: B5; k4; p19; k6; B5.
Row 44: B5; p6; k19; p4; B5.
Row 45: B5; k4; p11; k1; p3; k1; p3; k6; B5.
Row 46: B5; p6; k3; p1; k3; p1; k5; p1; k5; p4; B5.
Row 47: B5; k4; p4; k2; p4; k2; p3; k2; p1; k7; B5.
Row 48: B5; p10; k3; p2; k4; p3; k3; p4; B5.
Row 49: B5: k4; p2; k4; p4; k2; p3; k10; B5.
Row 50: B5; p11; k1; p3; k4; p10; B5.
Row 51: B5; k10; p3; k16; B5.
Row 52: p1, k1 for 6 sts.; p16; k1; p10. k1, p1 for 6 sts.
Row 53: p1, k1, for 7 sts.; k25; p1, k1 for 7 sts.
Row 54: p1, k1 for 8 sts.; p23; k1, p1 for 8 sts.
Row 55: p1, k1, for 9 sts.; k21; p1, k1 for 9 sts.
Row 56: p1, k1 for 10 sts.; p19; k1, p1 for 10 sts.
Row 57: p1, k1, for 11 sts.; k17; p1, k1 for 11 sts.
Row 58: p1, k1 for 12 sts.; p15; k1, p1 for 12sts.
Row 59: p1, k1 across row.
Row 60: p1, k1 across row.
Row 61: p1, k1 across row.
Row 62: p1, k1 across row.
Row 63: p1, k1 across 13 sts; bind off next 13 sts; work remaining stitches in
established seed stitch.
Shoulder Shaping:
Work one row even.
Working on these 13 sts, p1, k1 across row.
Dec. 1 st. at neck edge every other row 2 times. (11 sts.)
Work one row even.
Next row, dec. 1 st. at shoulder edge every other row until 5 sts. remain.
Work one row even.
Dec. 1 st. at neck edge and shoulder edge. 3 sts.
Work one row even.

I-Cord:
Slip these 3 sts. to a dpn and work an I-cord for approximately 12 inches. Fasten
off and run end down through middle of I-cord.

Join yarn to neck edge and work remaining side to correspond to other side.

"Green" Peace Bib

Copyright 2008 by Elaine Fitzpatrick. Permission is granted to reproduce this pattern in any medium, as long as it is distributed for free and this copyright notice remains intact. Permission is also granted to produce items from this pattern for sale.

Materials: One skein of worsted weight cotton such as Sugar and Cream or Peaches & Crème if you are using the bib for meals. If, on the other hand, you want to use it as a “drool” bib, I would recommend using a superwash wool. The cotton has a tendancy to absorb the moisture, whereas the superwash wool will wick the moisture and keep baby nice and dry!

Needles: Size 6
Gauge: 4.5 sts. per inch, not critical

Note: The edges of the bib are worked in a garter stitch border over the first and last five stitches (knit every row). You might find it helpful to insert a marker after the first five stitches and before the last five stitches.

When you reach the I-cords on the bib, it is helpful, but not necessary, to drop down a needle size to make the cords slightly smaller.

Directions:
Cast on 12 sts.
Row 1: k1, p1, across row.
Row 2: Cast on 3 sts., knit across row. (15 sts.)
Row 3: Cast on 3 sts., knit across row (18 sts.)
Row 4: Cast on 3 sts., knit, across row (21 sts.)
Row 5: Cast on 3 sts., knit, across row (24 sts.)
Row 6: Cast on 3 sts., knit, across row (27 sts.)
Row 7: Cast on 3 sts., knit, across row (30 sts.)
Row 8: Cast on 2 sts., knit, across row (32 sts.)
Row 9: Cast on 2 sts., knit, across row (34 sts.)
Row 10: Cast on 2 sts., knit, across row (36 sts.)
Row 11: Cast on 2 sts., knit, across row (38 sts.)
Row 12: k13; p12; k13.
Row 13: knit
Row 14: k11, p16; k11.
Row 15: knit.
Row 16: k9; p20; k9.
Row 17: knit
Row 18: k7; p24; k7.
Row 19: knit
Row 20: k5; p28; k5.

(Note: From this point on, keep the first and last five stitches in the established garter stitch for the border. You might find it helpful to insert a marker after the first five stitches and before the last five stitches.)

Row 21: knit.
Row 22: k5; p28; k5.
Row 23: knit.
Row 24: k5; p28; k5.
Row 25: k15; p8; k15.
Row 26: k5; p8, k12, p8; k5.
Row 27: k11; p4; k3; p2; k3; p4; k11.
Row 28: k5; p5; k3; p5; k2; p5; k3; p5; k5.
Row 29: k10; p2; k6; p2; k6; p2; k10.
Row 30: k5; p4; k3; p6; k2; p6; k3; p4; k5.
Row 31: k9; p4; k5; p2; k5; p4; k9.
Row 32: k5; p3; k2; p1; k3; p4; k2; p4; k3; p1; k2; p3; k5.
Row 33: k8; p2; k2; p3; k3; p2; k3; p3; k2; p2; k8.
Row 34: k5; p3; k2; p3; k3; p2; k2; p2; k3; p3; k2; p3; k5.
Row 35: k8; p2; k4; p3; k1; p2; k1; p3; k4; p2; k8.
Row 36: k5; p3, k2; p5; k8; p5; k2; p3, k5.
Row 37: k8; p2; k6; p6; k6; p2; k8.
Row 38: k5; p3; k2; p7; k4; p7; k2; p3; k5.
Row 39: k8; p2; k8; p2; k8; p2; k8.
Row 40: k5; p3; k2; p8; k2; p8; k2; p3; k5.
Row 41: k8; p2; k8; p2; k8; p2; k8.
Row 42: k5; p4; k2; p7; k2; p7; k2; p4; k5.
Row 43: k9; p3; k6; p2; k6; p3; k9.
Row 44: k5; p5; k2; p6; k2; p6; k2; p5; k5.
Row 45: k10; p3; k5; p2; k5; p3; k10.
Row 46: k5; p6; k4; p3; k2; p3; k4; p6; k5.
Row 47: k13; p12; k13.
Row 48: k5; p10; k8; p10; k5.
Row 49: knit.
Row 50: k5; p28; k5.
Row 51: knit.
Row 52: k5; p28; k5.
Row 53: knit.
Row 54: k5; p28; k5.
Row 55: knit.
Row 56: k5; p28; k5.
Row 57: knit.
Row 58: k5; p8; k12; p8; k5.
Row 59: knit.
Row 60: k6; p5; k16; p5; k6.
Row 61: knit.
Row 62: knit.
Row 63: knit 13 stitches.; bind off next 12 stitches knitwise; knit remaining stitches. You should have 13 stitches on each side. Place first 13 stitches on a holder and work on remaining 13 stitches in garter stitch as follows:

Shoulder shaping:
Knit one row even.
(Right side) Dec. 1 st. at neck edge every other row 2 times. (11 sts.)
Knit one row even.
Dec. 1 st. at shoulder edge every other row until 5 sts. remain.
Knit one row even.
(Right side) Dec. 1 st. at neck edge and 1 st. at shoulder edge. 3 sts.
Knit one row even.

I-cord:
Slip these 3 sts. to a dpn and work an I-cord for approximately 12 inches. Fasten off and run end down through middle of I-cord.

Join yarn to neck edge and work remaining side to correspond to other side.

Something's Fishy Bib

Materials: One skein of worsted weight cotton such as Sugar and Cream or Peaches & Crème if you are using the bib for meals. If, on the other hand, you want to use it as a “drool” bib, I would recommend using a superwash wool. The cotton has a tendancy to absorb the moisture, whereas the superwash wool will wick the moisture and keep baby nice and dry!

Needles: Size 6
Gauge: 4.5 sts. per inch, not critical

When you reach the I-cords on the bib, it is helpful, but not necessary, to drop down a needle size to make the cords slightly smaller.

Directions:
Cast on 13 stitches.
Row 1: Knit
Row 2: Cast on 3 stitches, k 13. (16 sts.)
Row 3: Cast on 3 stitches; k 16. (19 sts.)
Row 4: Cast on 3 stitches; k 19; (22 sts.)
Row 5: Cast on 3 stitches; k 22. (25 sts.)
Row 6: Cast on 3 stitches; k 25. (28 sts.)
Row 7: Cast on 3 stitches; k 28. (31 sts.)
Row 8: Cast on 2 stitches; k5; p3; k3; p5; k3; p5; k3; p1; k5. (33 sts.)
Row 9: Cast on 2 stitches; k9; p1; k7; p1; k7; p1; k9. (35 sts.)
Row 10: Cast on 2 stitches; k5; p1; (k3, p5) 3 times end k7. (37 sts.)
Row 11: Cast on 2 stitches; k9; (p1; k3) 5 times; end p1; k9. (39 sts.)
Row 12: k4; p6; (k1, p1, k1; p5) 2 times; k1; p1 k1; p6; k4.
Row 13: k11; p1; k7; p1; k7; p1; k11.
Row 14: k3; p3; (k3, p5) 3 times; k3; p3; k3.
Row 15: k5; (p1; k3) 7 times; end p1; k5.
Row 16: k3; p1; k1; p5; (k1, p1, k1; p5) 3 times; k1; p1; k3.
Row 17: k3; (p1, k7) 4 times; end p1; k3.
Row 18: k3; p3; k1; p25; k1; p3; k3.
Row 19: k5; p1; k27; p1; k5.
Row 20: k3; p1; k1; p29; k1; p1; k3.
Row 21: k3; p1; k24; p1; k6; p1; k3.
Row 22: k3; p3; k1; p3; k2; p2; k2; p16; k1; p3; k3.
Row 23: k5; p1; k16; p2; k2; p3; k4; p1; k5.
Row 24: k3; p1; k1; p5; k8; p16; k1; p1; k3.
Row 25: k3; p1; k16; p8; k7; p1; k3.
Row 26: k3; p3; k1; p5; k8; p12; k1; p3; k3.
Row 27: k5; p1; k13; p9; k5; p1; k5.
Row 28: k3; p1; k1; p5; k9; p15; k1; p1; k3.
Row 29: k3; p1; k14; p1; k2; p4; k1; p3; k6; p1; k3.
Row 30: k3; p3; k1; p3; k2; p2; k3; p15; k1; p3; k3.
Row 31: k5; p1; k12; p1; k4; p3; k2; p1; k4; p1; k5.
Row 32: k3; p1; k1; p29; k1; p1; k3.
Row 33: k3; p1; k15; p1; k15; p1; k3.
Row 34: k3; p3; k1; p16; k2; p3; k1; p3; k1; p3; k3.
Row 35: k5; p1; k4; p2; k3; p2; k16; p1; k5.
Row 36: k3; p1; k1; p16; k8; p5; k1; p1; k3.
Row 37: k3; p1; k6; p9; k16; p1; k3.
Row 38: k3; p3; k1; p12; k9; p4; k1; p3; k3.
Row 39: k5; p1; k6; p8; k1; p1; k11; p1; k5.
Row 40: k3; p1; k1; p15; k8; p6; k1; p1; k3.
Row 41: k3; p1; k6; p3; k1; p4; k3; p1; k13; p1; k3.
Row 42: k3; p3; k1; p15; k3; p2; k2; p3; k1; p3; k3.
Row 43: k5; p1; k4; p1; k2; p3; k4; p1; k12; p1; k5.
Row 44: k3; p1; k1; p29; k1; p1; k3.
Row 45: k3; p1; k23; p1; k7; p1; k3.
Row 46: k3; p3; k1; p4; k2; p2; k2; p15; k1; p3; k3.
Row 47: k5; p1; k15; p2; k2; p3; k5; p1; k5.
Row 48: k3; p1; k1; p6; k8; p15; k1; p1; k3.
Row 49: k3; p1; k15; p8; k8; p1; k3
Row 50: k3; p3; k1; p6; k8; p11; k1; p3; k3.
Row 51: k5; p1; k10; p1; k1; p9; k6; p1; k5.
Row 52: k3; p1; k1; p6; k9; p14; k1; p1; k3.
Row 53: k3; p1; k12; p1; k3; p4; k1; p3; k7; p1; k3.
Row 54: k3; p3; k1; p4; k2; p2; k3; p14; k1; p3; k3.
Row 55: k5; p1; k11; p1; k4; p3; k2; p1; k5; p1; k5.
Row 56: k3; p1; k1; p29; k1; p1; k3.
Row 57: k3; p1; k31; p1; k3.
Row 58: k3; p3; k3; (p5 k3) 3 times end p3; k3.
Row 59: k5; (p1, k3) 6 times; end p1; k5.
Row 60: k3; p1; k1; p5; (k1, p1, k1, p5) 3 times; end k1; p1; k3.
Row 61: k3; (p1, k7) 4 times; end p1; k3.
Row 62: k3; p3; across row, end k3.
Row 63: k5; (p1, k3) across row, end p1; k5.
Row 64: k3; p1; k1; p1; k3; (p1, k1, p1, k1, p1 k3) 3 times end p1; k1; p1; k3.
Row 65: k3; (p1, k7) 4 times; end p1; k3.
Row 66: Knit.
Row 67: Knit.
Row 68: Knit.

Shoulder shaping:
Knit 13 sts.; bind off next 13 sts. knitwise; knit remaining 13 sts. You should have 13 sts. on each side. Place first 13 stitches on a holder and work on remaining 13 sts. in garter stitch as follows:
Knit one row even.
(Right side) Dec. 1 st. at neck edge every other row 2 times. (11 sts.)
Work one row even.
Dec. 1 st. at shoulder edge every other row until 5 sts. remain.
Knit one row even.
(Right side) Dec. 1 st. at neck edge and 1 st. at shoulder edge. 3 sts.
Knit one row even.

I-cord:
Slip these 3 sts. to a dpn and work an I-cord for approximately 12 inches. Fasten off and run end down through middle of I-cord.

Join yarn to neck edge and work remaining side to correspond to other side.

Recently finished knitting projects

2009-01-09T06:00:00.012-06:00

Time to show pics of my recently finished knitting projects......

First is the Grey Gardens Wrap by Kay Graves of Savannah Cottage. I left off the ruffle that was supposed to go all around the edge. I thought the wrap was more versatile without it. Not sure I love how it drapes on me, but it's warm and cozy and very soft. Maybe I just need some practice in "wrapping." This one is a free pattern offered as a downloadable pdf file - http://mysavannahcottage.files.wordpress.com/2008/03/grey-gardens-pdf.pdf

I've also whipped up a pair of mittens this week. These were made to coordinate with my diamond modular scarf that I had made with Artyarns supermerino (see post "A Week of Scarves - Day 6) I used the leftover Artyarns yarn from my scarf, along with a soft lavender yarn for these mittens. This is a mittens pattern by Sarah Annexstad called Tam Mittens (available at my LYS - www.thetangledskein.com) They actually look better using a self-striping Noro for the accent color, but I wanted to match the scarf so I used the Artyarns leftover yarn.

Finally, I've done another pair of socks. These are nothing fancy, just plain old ribbed socks, but they are the perfect color for wearing with blue jeans. I always knit my socks on two circulars and often follow a pattern that I got as a handout, only changing the pattern ribbing section to either stockinette, ribbing, or baby cables.

Knitting Pattern Generators

2009-01-08T01:20:00.000-06:00

Does it fit? How can I get a pattern that is proportioned for me? Maybe a knitting pattern generator will be the answer! I've run across several sites that offer free pattern generators for all kinds of knitting projects. Here are a few:

http://www.thedietdiary.com/knittingfiend/index.html
This is quite a comprehensive site, offering pattern generators for sweaters, vests, headbands, ponchos, socks, purses, hats, mittens, and more.

http://www.microrevolt.org/knitPro/
knitPro is a web application that translates digital images into knit, crochet, needlepoint and cross-stitch patterns. Just upload jpeg, gif or png images of whatever you wish — portraits, landscapes, logos… and it will generate the image pattern on a grid sizable for any project.

http://kpg.sourceforge.net/
kpg - Knitting Pattern Generator takes in an image and creates a knitting pattern. Generates an html document with clear instructions on how to knit a piece that will look like the picture it is based on.

http://www.knittingnewscast.com/knc/Patterns/Generators/WristWarmers.aspx
This site offers a wrist warmer pattern generator.

http://www.panix.com/~ilaine/socks.html
This one has a sock pattern generator.

http://knitting.bikibird.com/patternDrafting.html
This site has pattern generators for pullover and cardigan sweaters and ponchos.

http://www.software4knitting.com/psockwizard/sockwizdem.htm
At this site they offer software for sale that helps you make socks and sweaters. There is a free sock demo available to try.

http://www.tata-tatao.to/e-index.html
Here you can print out your own knitting graph paper.

Standard Yarn Weight System

2009-01-07T17:16:00.003-06:00

Yarn Symbol
0 ~ Lace
Yarn Type
10 count crochet thread fingering
Knit Gauge Range (stockinette stitch of 4")
33-40 sts
Recommended needle size (metric)
1.5-2.25 mm
Recommended needle size (US)
000-1

Yarn Symbol
1 ~ Superfine
Yarn Type
Sock, Fingering
Knit Gauge Range (stockinette stitch of 4")
27-32
Recommended needle size (metric)
2.25-3.25 mm
Recommended needle size (US)
1 to 3

Yarn Symbol
2 ~ Fine
Yarn Type
Sport, Baby
Knit Gauge Range (stockinette stitch of 4")
23-26 sts
Recommended needle size (metric)
3.25-3.75 mm
Recommended needle size (US)
3 to 5

Yarn Symbol
3 ~ Light
Yarn Type
DK, light worsted
Knit Gauge Range (stockinette stitch of 4")
21-24 sts
Recommended needle size (metric)
3.75-4.5 mm
Recommended needle size (US)
5 to 7

Yarn Symbol
4 ~ Medium
Yarn Type
Worsted, Afghan, Aran
Knit Gauge Range (stockinette stitch of 4")
16-20 sts
Recommended needle size (metric)
4.5-5.5 mm
Recommended needle size (US)
7 to 9

Yarn Symbol
5 ~ Bulky
Yarn Type
Chunky, Craft, Rug
Knit Gauge Range (stockinette stitch of 4")
12-15 sts
Recommended needle size (metric)
5.5-8 mm
Recommended needle size (US)
9 to 11

Yarn Symbol
6 ~ Super Bulky
Yarn Type
Bulky, Roving
Knit Gauge Range (stockinette stitch of 4")
6-11 sts
Recommended needle size (metric)
8 mm and larger
Recommended needle size (US)
11 and larger

The Needle Felted Hat Project

2009-01-06T00:15:00.002-06:00

After a couple of attempts at embellishing purses with needle felting, I decided to jump in with both feet and do a needle felted hat. Here is the result of hat number one. It turned out to be kind of funky looking with the addition of the decorative thick/thin yarn swirls in bright colors. But I like it, wear it, and always get favorable comments.

First of all, needle felting is not an exact science. I'm sure I could never duplicate this exact hat again, even if I tried. If you decide to make a needle felted hat, yours will be unique! Go ahead, try something new!

Susan's Needle Felted Hat

Materials:
I purchased a foam hat form. You can get one online - search 'hat forms for needle felting' or you can make your own out of bolster pillow forms. Since the bolster pillow forms require cutting, I purchased the form. The forms are reusable, but I'd suggest putting a plastic bag over the form before you start, otherwise bits of felt will stick to the form and that color will attach to the next hat you make.

You will also need felting needles and a multi-needle felting tool. I purchased a tool online that holds 12 needles. A good investment, as I think the felting process would take forever if you only had 4 or 6 needles in your needle holder. The medium size needles worked well for my project.

Finally, you will need wool roving. I used about 4 ounces for my hat. Many yarn stores have this available in a plethora of colors. You can mix colors if you like. I used a solid color for the hat and embellished with a colorful yarn.

The Process:
Beginning with the top of the form, I laid fibers out across the form in small tufts. I overlapped the fibers slightly to make a smooth layer. Then I laid out the next layer of fibers in the opposite direction. I created 4 or 5 layers of fibers. I overlapped and went over the edges and down the sides a couple of inches.

Now it was time to start the needle felting part! I took my felting tool and started poking the fibers in an up and down motion. Gently. I learned that you can't poke the needles in too deep or your form will become damaged and the hat will be harder to remove from the form. I needled the whole area where I had laid down the fibers.

I gently rolled my felted fibers off the form, turned it over, and put it back on the form inside out. I felted the fibers again. This helped lock the fibers in place and made the hat stronger. I was ready to start the sides. I laid fibers around, then up and down, then around the hat. I alternated until I had 4 or 5 layers. I took my felting tool and started felting the layers. Gently, gently!

I rolled my hat off the form. Pulling it off without rolling it can stretch the hat or make it misshapen. I turned the hat inside out and put it back on the form. I continued to add layers of fiber and felt with the needle felting tool. I turned my hat inside out every once in awhile and put the hat back on the form. I checked for thin spots by holding the hat up to the light. It's easy to see where more fiber is needed.

I continued adding fibers and needle felting until my hat was the desired shape, length, and thickness. I took a little extra care at the end of the process to make sure the brim part was even.

When the hat was completed, I removed it from the form by gently rolling it off. Next I put the hat in hot, soapy water for 5 or 10 minutes while I rubbed it a bit with my hands. I rinsed it, squeezed out the excess water, and put it on a bowl to dry. You can put this back on your hat form if you like, but I used a bowl that I knew fit the size of my head and found it easy to manipulate the shaping and brim with the bowl.

When the hat had dried, I took a multi-colored thick/thin wool yarn and needle felted my swirly design on the hat and the edge of the brim. Voila! It's a hat!

Total time was probably 3 or 4 hours to lay fibers and felt. I took lots of breaks, as the needle felting is tiring to do continuously.

Have fun, make a hat today!

Shorty Hand Warmers

2009-01-05T09:00:00.011-06:00

These shorty hand warmers are knit with a worsted or bulky yarn. I used Ella Rae Jaspe' Wool in color 03 for the multi-colored ones. The yarn comes in 50 gram balls, with 88 yards to the skein. One skein makes a set of these fingerless gloves with plenty of yarn left over to add length to the wrist if you prefer a longer version. The purple ones are knit up with Elsebeth Lavold's Silky Flamme designer's choice, color 020 lavender. This is a 50g ball with 82 yards of yarn. No extra yarn here, as I finished with barely a foot of yarn left over.

They knit up really fast - a one day project for me. I adapted a mitten pattern to make these cozy little hand warmers. Adjusting the basic mitten pattern was done by adding a couple of thumb stitches and binding off before the thumb and hand decreases.

Easy Knit ~ Shorty Hand Warmers Pattern

Materials: A set of US 7 double point needles or two US 7 24" circular needles (worsted weight) or US 8 double point needles or two US 8 24" circular needles (bulky weight) & one skein of bulky or worsted weight yarn.

Directions:
Cast on 28 stitches. Divide stitches onto 3 dp needles or 2 circular needles. Join for working in the round.

Knit 16 rounds

Thumb Gussett
On the next round, K1, place marker, M1, K1, M1, place marker, knit to the end of the round (increase 2 stitches).
Knit 2 rounds

Increase Round
* K1, slip marker, M1, knit to next marker, M1, slip marker, knit to end of round.
Knit 2 rounds *

Repeat from * to * two more times until you have 36 stitches total and 9 stitches between your markers for the thumb.

K1, remove 1st marker, place 9 thumb stitches on a stitch holder, remove 2nd marker, cast on 1 stich, knit to the end. (28 stitches)

Hand
Knit about 14 rounds, ending at the length desired. If you like the rolled look, make sure the length allows for the roll. Bind off loosely.

Thumb
Arrange the 9 thumb stitches on 2 dp needles or 2 circular needles and join with RS facing to beginning of first needle. Using a 3rd dp needle or one of your circular needles, pick up and knit 4 stitches in the thumb gap. (13 stitches). Join for working in the round. Knit about 8 rounds, ending at the length desired. Bind off loosely.

A Week of Scarves! Day 7 - Basic Sampler Scarf

2009-01-04T09:00:00.009-06:00

Whew! Day 7 of the week of scarves! I haven't made this one yet, but this will be by next scarf project. It's a basic sampler scarf from Lion Brand yarn. They offer this free pattern with photo on their website. Looks like a good way to learn several different pattern stitches and combine them in one simple project.

Basic Sampler Scarf

Lion Brand^® Wool-Ease^®

Materials:

Size: One Size
6 x 56 in. (15 x 142 cm)

2 skeins yarn

Size US 9 needles or needle size to give correct gauge

Gauge:

17 stitches and 24 rows = 4 in. (10 cm) in Stockinette stitch (knit on right side, purl on wrong side). BE SURE TO CHECK YOUR GAUGE. When you match the gauge in a pattern, your project will be the size specified in the pattern and the materials specified in the pattern will be sufficient. If it takes you fewer stitches and rows to make a 4 in. [10 cm] square, try using a smaller size hook or needles; if more stitches and rows, try a larger size hook or needles.

SCARF

Cast on 26 stitches.

Rows 1-6: Knit.
Row 7: Knit 3, *knit 1, purl 1; repeat from * to last 3 stitches (for Seed Stitch pattern), knit 3.
Row 8: Knit 3, (knit the purl stitches and purl the knit stitches) to last 3 stitches, knit 3.
Rows 9-22: Repeat Rows 7 and 8 seven times.
Rows 23-27: Knit.
Row 28: Knit 3, knit 4, *purl 4, knit 4; repeat from * to last 3 stitches (for Basketweave), knit 3.
Row 29: Knit 3, purl 4, *knit 4, purl 4; repeat from * to last 3 stitches, knit 3.
Rows 30 and 31: Repeat Rows 28 and 29.
Row 32: Knit.
Rows 33-36: Repeat Rows 28 and 29 twice.
Rows 37-41: Repeat Rows 32-36.
Row 42-46: Knit.
Row 47: Knit 3, *purl 2, knit 1; repeat from * to last 5 stitches (for Ridge Stitch), purl 2, knit 3.
Row 48: Knit.
Rows 49-62: Repeat Rows 47 and 48 seven times.
Rows 63-66: Knit.
Row 67: Knit 3, *knit 4, purl 6; repeat from * to last 3 stitches (for Track Stitch), knit 3.
Row 68: Knit 3, purl 20, knit 3.
Row 69: Knit.
Row 70: Knit 3, purl 20, knit 3.
Row 71: Knit 3, *purl 5, knit 4, purl 1; repeat from * to last 3 stitches, knit 3.
Rows 72-74: Repeat Rows 68-70.
Rows 75-79: Repeat Rows 67-71.
Row 80-82: Repeat Rows 68-70.
Rows 83-86: Knit.
Row 87-326: Repeat Rows 7-86 three more times.
Rows 327-332: Knit.

Bind off.

FINISHING
Weave in ends.

A Week of Scarves! Day 6 - Diamond Modular Scarf

2009-01-03T09:00:00.010-06:00

Diamond Modular Scarf

It was fun to learn a new technique in making this scarf. It's done in short rows and knit continuously, not pieced together at the end. The yarn I used was Artyarns Supermerino, which is a lovely, stretchy kind of yarn that is hand-dyed.

The pattern is not free, but you can check the Artyarns website at
http://www.artyarns.com/newsite/patterns_main.htm to find out where you can purchase the pattern and yarn. There is a similar scarf on their site that is a freebie. They will email you the pattern if you join their Yahoo group at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/multidirectional/

Note: This is not one of those mindless projects that you can do easily while multitasking!

Materials:
3 skeins Artyarns Supermerino
Size 7 needles
Guage: 4 1/2 stitches = 1 inch
Approximate size: 5" x 54"

A Week of Scarves! Day 5 - Palindrome - A Reversible Cable Scarf

2009-01-02T09:30:00.001-06:00

This scarf is easy to make, a great beginner cable scarf, and is reversible. How cool is that? This is a design from Kristin Bellenhumeur, inspired by the Irish Hiking Scarf pattern, and is is now available as a free internet pattern (see fine print at the bottom of this post for copyright usage compliance.) Named Palindrome, which means a line that reads the same forwards or backwards. Clever.

Palindrome - A Reversible Cable Scarf

Materials: Approximately 385 yards worsted weight yarn
Size 9 needles, or size recommended for yarn
Cable needle
Scarf measures approximately 4.5" x 64"

Directions:
Cast on 40 sts using your favorite cast-on method

Row 1: (RS) *K2, P2* across
Row 2, 3, and 4: Repeat Row 1
Row 5: (RS) *K2, P2, C8F* Repeat to last 4 sts, K2, P2
Row 6: Repeat Row 1

Repeat rows 1-6 for desired length, ending with row 4.
Bind off in K2, P2 pattern.

***KEY*** Very important for reversible cables!
C8F: Slip 4 sts to a cable needle and hold to front, K2, P2, then K2, P2 from the cable needle.

Credits: Original design was inspired byHello Yarn's Irish Hiking Scarf pattern.Modified, renamed and republished with permission. All content © Kristin Bellehumeur. All rights reserved.You may print this pattern for personal, non profit use, as long as it is printed from www.cometosilver.com. And yes, you may sell your knitted, super cool reversible cable scarf! But it's better as a gift. ;)

A Week of Scarves! Day 4 - Yellow and Gray Tweed Scarf

2009-01-01T09:00:00.005-06:00

For this tweed scarf I used size 10 needles and a chunkier yarn. Smaller needles and lighter weight yarn gives this a totally different look. A friend gave me this pattern that she had printed from the internet. I'm not sure of the official name for this scarf pattern or who to credit for the pattern, but it's a great little scarf.

Yellow and Gray Tweed Scarf Pattern

Materials: Size 10 needles, approximately 400 yards of yarn
Finished size is 5" across and about 50" long.

Cast on 24 stitches.

Row 1: (K4, P4) 3 times across row.
Row 2: P1 (K4, P4) 2 times across row, end with K4, P3
Row 3: K2 (P4, K4) 2 times across row, end with P4, K2
Row 4: P3 (K4, P4) 2 times across row, end with K4, P1
Row 5: (P4, K4) 3 times across
Row 6: K1 (P4, K4) 2 times across row, end with P4, K3
Row 7: P2 (K4, P4) 2 times across row, end with K4, P2
Row 8: K3 (P4, K4) 2 times across row, end with P4, K1

Repeat these 8 rows, ending with row 8. Bind off.

A Week of Scarves! Day 3 - Ribs and Ruffles Scarf

2008-12-31T09:00:00.004-06:00

This scarf knits up on big needles really fast and is done with one skein of Misti Chunky yarn. The little ruffle at the ends gives this a nice feminine look.

Ribs and Ruffles Scarf

Materials: 1 skein Misti Chunky Baby Alpaca, Size 13 Needles
Finished size: 48" x 5"

Directions:
Cast on 60 stitches.

Ruffle Row One: K2Tog across row (you will now have 30 stitches)
Ruffle Row Two: K2Tog across row (you will now have 15 stitches)

Begin Rib pattern.
Row One Rib Pattern: *K3, bring yarn forward, slip stitch as if to purl, bring yarn back, repeat pattern from *, end row with K3.
Row Two Rib Pattern: K1, bring yarn forward, slip stitch as if to purl, bring yarn back *K3, bring yarn forward, slip stitch as if to purl, bring yarn back, repeat pattern from *, end row with K1.
Continue rib pattern until you have approximately 8 yards left on skein. Begin ending ruffle pattern.

Ending Ruffle Pattern Row One: K into front and back of each stitch in row (you will now have 30 stitches)
Ending Ruffle Pattern Row Two: Knit into front and back of each stitch in row (you will now have 60 stitches)
Bind off with similar tension to cast on row.

I've also made this scarf where I have doubled the width and added length to make this a more "winter hearty" scarf.

A Week of Scarves! Day 2 - Knitted Lengthwise Scarf

2008-12-30T09:00:00.003-06:00

Knitting this scarf is a wonderful way to use up your scraps of yarn or to match the yarn you've used in a hat or mittens. It is knit lengthwise and can be done in a woven stitch, a seed stitch, box stitch, or moss stitch. The examples in the photos are all done with the woven stitch, which produce a woven look on the right side and a seed stitch on the wrong side.

Knitted Lengthwise Scarf Pattern

Materials:
Needle: Size appropriate for your yarn and desired guage (I used a size 4 needle, 60" long circular)
Yarn: Approximately 6 yards of yarn per row, if allowing for fringe. About 400 yards of yarn for the finished scarf.
Guage: 4 to 4 1/2 stitches per inch in worsted weight garter stitch, 6 stitches per inch in sport/DK weight garter stitch.
Finished Size: 5" x 42"

Number of Cast-on Stitches
Stitches/inch 4.0
40" length 160
45" length 180
50" length 200
55" length 220
60" length 240

Stitches/inch 4.5
40" length 180
45" length 203
50" length 225
55" length 248
60" length 270

Stitches/inch 5.0
40" length 200
45" length 225
50" length 250
55" length 275
60" length 300

Stitches/inch 5.5
40" length 220
45" length 248
50" length 275
55" length 303
60" length 330

Woven Stitch
Over an odd number of stitches or multiples of 4 + 1

Row 1 (RS) K1, *yf, sl 1 purlwise, yb, K1. Rep from * to end.
Row 2 (WS) P2, *yb, sl 1 purlwise, yf, P1. Rep from * to last stitch, P1.
Repeat these two rows.

If you would like a fringe, you can change yarn every row or just cut and start a new piece of yarn at every row. Leave a long tail at the beginning and end of each row.

Bind off and weave in ends. Trim fringe. I braided my fringe for a different look.

A Week of Scarves! Day 1 - Irish Hiking Scarf

2008-12-29T08:54:00.005-06:00

Living in Minnesota certainly has it's disadvantages when it comes to wintery weather. I tend to make a LOT of scarves. It's really not a fetish, just practical. I decided that this week I would showcase a week of my favorite scarves. The first one is the Irish Hiking Scarf, pattern by Adrian Bazilia. This was first published in Hello Yarn and is now available as a free internet pattern (see fine print at the bottom of this post for copyright usage compliance.) It's a great beginning cabling project - easy and fun!

Irish Hiking Scarf

Materials:
Size US 8 needles and a cable needle
350 yards of worsted weight yarn
Finished size approximately 5 1/2" x 55"

Pattern:

Cast on 42 stitches.

Row 1. (WS) K2, P2, K2, P6, K2, P2, K2, P6, K2, P2, K2, P6, K2, P2, K2
Row 2. (RS) K4, P2, K6, P2, K2, P2, K6, P2, K2, P2, K6, P2, K4
Row 3. (WS) repeat row 1
Row 4. (RS) repeat row 2
Row 5. (WS) repeat row 1.
Row 6. (RS) repeat row 2.
Row 7. (WS) repeat row 1.
Row 8. (RS) K4, P2, C6F, P2, K2, P2, C6F, P2, K2, P2, C6F, P2, K4

Repeat these rows to desired length, ending on row 7. Bind off.

Key:

C6F = Slip 3 sts. onto a cable needle and hold to front of work. K3, then K the 3 sts. off cable needle.

Hello Yarn Credits: All content © Hello Yarn. All rights reserved. These patterns are for personal and non-profit use only. This means you can knit for yourself, for a gift, for charity, or for a charity auction/sale. You can print out the patterns for friends, if you wish, as long as you print straight from my site so the copyright information is intact. You may not sell items made from these patterns for profit or give these patterns away in your store to sell yarn. Visit www.helloyarn.com for more patterns

Online Knitting Magazines & Resources

2008-12-26T15:22:00.014-06:00

There are some new winter editions of online knitting magazines that are now available.

Knitty (http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEwinter08/index.php)This is one of my favorite sites and has lots of free patterns available. Look through their pattern archives as well!

Twist (http://www.twistcollective.com/) A very nice site with good articles. The patterns are all available for purchase.

Knit.1 Online Magazine (http://www.knit1mag.com/) I just discovered this site - lots of information and cool free patterns.

MetaPostModernKnitting (http://www.metapostmodernknitting.com/Home/tabid/76/Default.aspx) Some cute free patterns, knitting trends, blog.

The Inside Loop (http://www.theinsideloop.com/Issue4/index.html) Online magazine dedicated to fiber arts in the U.K. Free patterns and more.

Some other great knitting resources and websites:

Knitter's Review (http://knittersreview.com/) Lots of how-to's, product reviews, forum's, etc.

Ravelry (http://www.ravelry.com) This has to be my all-time favorite knitting website. A totally comprehensive site where you can gain a wealth of knowledge, show off your projects, get knitting advice, chat, inventory your yarn and library, join swaps, and much more. Check it out, you will love it!

Knitting Help (http://www.knittinghelp.com/) Free videos; you can even learn to knit with their knitting videos.

Noro Silk Garden Scarf Completed!

2008-12-24T10:12:00.009-06:00

I promised pictures of the completed scarf, so here they are! The scarf isn't blocked yet, but I'll get to that this week. The colors couldn't have turned out better - this is now officially my favorite scarf. Check my earlier post for the free scarf pattern and directional notes.

How to Make Snag Free Stitch Markers

2008-12-22T10:02:00.022-06:00

I love those decorative stitch markers and decided to try my hand at making some. These are the snag proof ones that can be customized to any size needle. Here's a step by step tutorial on how it's done.

Supplies:
decorative bead
crimp bead
crimp bead cover
nylon coated beading wire
crimping pliers
wire cutter

Step one: Cut a piece of nylon coated beading wire a little larger than you want for your stitch marker. Thread it through the bead, making a loop.

Step two: Slide the crimp bead through both wire ends at the bottom of the bead.

Step three: With pliers, crimp bead and cut off bead wire ends below crimped bead.

Step four: Put crimp cover in crimping pliers, then place around crimped bead. Gently squeeze until crimp cover is secure around the crimp bead. Don't squeeze too tight!

That's it! Easy, right? The nice part is that these are snag proof, since they use nylon coated wire that is covered with the crimp bead and crimp bead cover.

Here are a couple that I made in just a few minutes.

Italy Yarn Shops

2008-12-18T10:00:00.020-06:00

When I was planning a trip to Italy a couple of years ago, I searched online for yarn shops in Italy. I found a few, but found a comprehensive list lacking. We visited Italy again this fall and I again researched online for yarn stores. I found a few more listed and saw many inquiries about "Where can I find yarn shops in Italy?" So I've put together a list of yarn shops in Italy for those lucky enough to be going there. I have personally visited several of these shops and others were simply added to the list from researching and googling blogs, discussion groups, and from personal recommendations. I'd love for this to be a comprehensive, useful list, so if you have an addition or deletion, please email me and I'll update the list. Pics are great, too!

Pictures above are from the yarn shop called Nonsololana in Orvietto, Umbria region.

ITALY YARN SHOPS

UMBRIA/TUSCANY REGIONS
Nonsololana (Not only wool!)
Via Magalotti, 10
Orvieto
Umbria 05018
Italy
+39 0763 342466
Sign outside says "Paul and Shark". It looks like a men's wear shop, but inside they carry a HUGE selection of wool, cotton, and other kinds of yarn in every imaginable color.

Brogi Filati di Tanzini
Vicolo Pollaioli 2
Siena
Located on an unnamed street (Vicolo translates as "alley") that opens off the Campo, on the downhill side. Small but stacked to the ceiling with shelves of yarn.

Cose di Lana (di Manola e Giusy)
Via Pantaneto, 17
Siena
Tuscany 53100
Italy
+39 0577 48550

Filatura di Crosa
Via de' Guicciardini, 21 r.
50125 Firenze
+39 (55) 28 91 93 (voice and fax)

Mirko Filati
Piazza San Lorenzo (below street level)
Florence, Italy
Smaller selection, but beautiful cashmere blend yarn for $5 eu a skein (Fall, 2008)

Beatrice Galli
Borgo San Iacopo, 24/r
50125 Florence Italy
Tel. +39.055.28.91.93
Fax +39.055.28.91.93
(just off the Ponte Vecchio) http://www.beatriceyarnshop.com/

Campolmi Roberto Filati srl
Via F. Portinari, 19/21 R
50122 - Firenze
Tel. 055.21.02.18 - Fax 055.21.56.2
A big shop, almost outlet style, with LOTS of yarn, located behind the Cathedral of Santa Maria Del Fiore. Largest selection of yarn that I’ve seen in the shops in Italy. Worth the trip.
http://www.campolmifilati.it/index.php?action=home

Boutique della lana
Viale Petrocchi 191
Pistoia
Not far from Piazza San Francesco (or Piazza Mazzini), in the Porta al Borgo area. Large selection of various producers, mainly classic yarns.

Ditta Chiti, Maglieria merceria filati
Via di Cerchi 7/r (in the area near Piazza della Signoria)
Firenze
+39 (55) 212262

Filati Borselli
Via del Can Bianco 11
Pistoia
Near the post office.

Lucca
Lovi Lane
Via Fillungo 156 (past Anfiteatro square)
Small shop with limited choice, but unbeatable prices!

ROME:

Bonifazi Nadia
Via Le S. Giovanni Bosco, 22
Roma

Botto Vittorina--Arte e Lana
Via Acqui 49/51
Roma

Cafolla
Arcobaleno S.A.S-P.za Tuscolo, 18
Roma

Nonsolo Lana di Elisabetta Rosci
V. Gregorio VII, 317/A
Roma

Filmoda di Svizzero S
Via Eurialo, 31/33
Roma

Fior di Lana s.a.s.
Largo di Loggia, 11
Roma

Il Fiocco
Via Badia di Cava, 88
Roma

Carolla M. Grazia
Via Catania, 45
Roma

D'antoni Enrica
Via Vallarsa, 15
Roma

Linette Lane
Piazza Filippo Carli, 23
Roma

Mafil s.n.c.
Via D. Campari 8/12
Roma

Fabi Patrizia
Via Valtellina, 35
Roma

Filatura di Crosa
Via Bergamo, 15 (Piazza Fiume)
Roma
+39 (6) 854 9020

Di Giacomo Paola
Via f. Nicolai, 77
Roma

Perugia Carla
Via Guibbomari, 69
Roma

Zamarian Lidia
Via Monte Cervialto, 50
Roma

Lana della Vecchia
corner of the Corso Vittorio Emanuele and Via Baullari, near the Campo de' Fiori

MILAN
La bottega della Lana
Via Pergolesi 1
Milano
Subway lines 1 and 2, Loreto stop
Small shop, devoted to knitting and crochet only.
Very good, classic yarns.

Centro della lana
Via Montevideo 25
Milano
Subway line 2, Sant'Agostino stop
Large selection of all yarn available in Italy.

Lanar
Via Nino Bixio 7
Milano
http://www.lanar.it/
Subway line 1, Porta Venezia stop
Outlet of the Lanar industries, selling yarn in bulk, rolled in more manageable hanks or in balls.

Meazza Lane
Via De Sanctis 47
Milano
Subway line 2, Abbiategrasso stop
Outlet type shop with special offers form Northern Italy yarn producers.

OTHER AREAS
La Compagnia del Cotone
Via Mazzini 44, I-10123 Torino
+39 (11) 87 83 81
Rowan distributor for Italy.

Lellabella
30124 Venezia
San Marco 3718
Calle della Mandola (della Cortesia)
Tel/Fax: 041 522 51 52