SouleMama

please talk me out of this

Yesterday a friend gave me a fun, fun pile of vintage knitting patterns to pour through, which are always such a treat to read. A lot of them end up being fairly similar to other patterns of the same era, but this one stopped me:

Okay, I have to make this. No, I really do have to make this. The sweater thing (I'll stop at the hat). Can't you see this in some really great, Oilily-ish bold colored cotton? It's crochet, which is kind of a bummer since i don't really crochet. But that isn't stopping me from planning an afternoon trip to the yarn store to buy yarn for this project. Have I lost my mind?

added: does anyone know the website where there's a list of vintage yarns and their gauge/yardage? I know I've seen that before, but I can't find it now. Thanks!!!

on staying focused

My concept of time is often a bit skewed. I usually have to remind myself what month it is, let alone what day or time. Usually that's all okay, but sometimes it really hurts me. Like this week, when it suddenly occured to me that Ezra's birthday is not 'weeks away' as I had imagined it, but in fact, just 11 short days. And besides planning a birthday party (a tea party, I've been told), I need to, um, make his gifts. And as usual, my ideas and plans are much greater than the alloted time would ever realistically allow. And so, for the record, this is my gift project list:

#1. Most Likely To Be Completed. (but probably the least exciting for a three year old to receive)  Haiku cardigan from Knitty. I've made this sweater so many times before, so I think I know that it's possible to complete this one on time. I'm halfway there.

#2. Most Likely to Require a Matching Outfit. A knit blue dog from Handknit Holidays. I was actually almost done with this a few months ago (see the body and four limbs?!), but suddenly abandoned it. I need to finish the ears, and then, of course, make some clothes for him. And then something matching for Ez? Hmn... This one's gotta happen, but it's going to be a stretch.

#3. Most Likely to Make Me Crazy. But, oh, I really want to make this! A table playhouse, based loosely on one like this or this to fit over our dining room table. I might incorporate some of this fabric that my friend Rachael brought me from Ikea. I see lots of ponpom fringe happening here. (Or...if all else fails, I might convince the grandparents to go in on this with me instead. Hmnn...tempting).

Okay, time to focus. 11 days....11 days.....

One Skein, One Bowl

I was in a bookstore last weekend--just browsing, of course. But I did manage to walk away with just one book (hey--I was impressed), and fittingly it was One Skein, by Leigh Radford (author of Alterknits...still on my wish list). I seem to have a short attention span with my knitting projects these days (currently, I have five going, all of which I rotate getting bored with and moving onto another...this is a big shift from my former start-to-finish kind of knitting style. Hmn.), and so of course this book really, really appealed to me. Or, it could have just been the amazing colors chosen for the book cover. Yummy, no?

Anyway...good stuff in here. Really good stuff. Lots of 'use your stash' stuff, which I love for many many reasons. Some great patterns--knitted rug (so drawn to making one of these, even though I have a crocheted version that I've never completed) and bath mat, baby bolero, hat, felted bowls and lots lots more (sorry...scanner and I weren't in the mood for cooperating today.)

I wanted to make something right away, and the felted bowls were calling to me most of all. Here's mine, using stash leftovers of Lamb's Pride bulky.

I see many, many, many more of these in my future. So fast, so seamless, and so satisfying.

breaking the spell

Perhaps admitting you have a problem really does get you most of the way to healing. Okay, we're just talking about knitting socks here. But really! I finished a pair of socks! Right on the heels (ha!) of my history of One Sock knitting post. Hooray! Hooray!

I cannot for the life of me remember what yarn this is (and where is that label that I tell every new knitter they should save? Hmn...), but I used the Classic Socks pattern by Yankee Knitter Designs. This is in the child size--just right for Ezra's feet for this spring and into next fall and winter, I believe (okay, and seriously--those knees?! There's no way those were getting cropped out of the sock photo). Calvin's next (I'm working my way up slowly to big people-sized socks), and I think I'm going to give two socks on circular needles a try. (Thanks to Joelene for the tip on that--I'll post more info after I try it). Someday, I might just have my very own pair handknit by me socks. Oooohhh.

cheap thrills

$1 sweater at local thrift shop (half price day. love that.), 100% cotton.....

....became this.

I may be the last knitter on the block to try recycling yarn like this, and I'm not quite sure what took me so long. Perhaps I knew I'd get that crazy thrifty rush I get from turning something old into something new, and that my yarn stash would never again be contained. Nonetheless, I tried it. And it was SO MUCH FUN. No really, it made me very very happy. I don't even have a plan for this yarn, I just love that this is possible. That something new can come of something that was to be 'discarded'. On so many levels, that is very very cool.

I never understood how to do this when my grandmother would tell me about how she did it as a child (when, of course, this wasn't just a thrill, but a necessity), but I totally got 'how' to do it when I found this fabulous tutorial.

A year in the making

Okay, that may be a bit of an exaggeration, but I did start this blanket last July. I think that makes it my loooongest knitting project ever (hey. I'm into instant gratification). It's the Wild Stripes Blanket  from Knitty. I loved the designed color choices so much, I bought the same stuff (from Knitpicks). And then slowly, slowly, slowly knit this thing. Thankfully, the change of colors every few rows made things a tiny bit interesting, otherwise, I don't think I would have ever made my way through all that stockinette stitch. I dragged this project from beach to beach all summer, and finished the knitting just before Adelaide was born. The pattern says to weave in the ends as you go, which I didn't do, of course. And it took me five HOURS just to do that.

And then it sat and sat, waiting for first, the perfect fabric, and then waiting even longer for me to get the time (or rather, motivation) to put the two pieces (and the piping) together. I'm not so in love with blind stitching by hand, let alone putting a knitted piece, with sometimes funky edging, together with fabric. But I forged ahead.

And so then it sat some more, waiting for the embroidery to happen. And this week--feeling sad and a bit funky, I've been craving just that kind of a monotonous activity. So, hooray! The blanket is now complete!

The pattern is very clearly written, and definitely there's nothing difficult about it, it's just that it's SO much of the same thing. So much stockinette knitting, so much weaving in, so much blind stitching, and so much embroidery. I think it takes someone with more patience than I to complete this in less than a year. ;) But even with all that complaining about the blanket, I do LOVE the finished result. It's so warm and big and the colors are great.

Adelaide likes it too. She likes it so much, in fact, that she thinks the french knots are nipples, and can't leave them alone. (I don't think my nipples look like that, by the way). 

The trouble with knitting socks

Still slightly obsessed with the fantasy of knitting these socks (I can't get them out of my head), I did a quick peruse of my 'abandoned' knitting projects, and found all of the above. Five 'one socks'. No matches were ever made for them, and as you can see, some never even made it to the full 'one sock' status. I don't want to think about how many more are out there--hiding amongst my yarn, or those that have already been frogged. Look at the purple and pink ones I started this summer--I've given up on them enough to take the needles out, but can't bear to unravel it! And more recently, the sock still on the needles was with a burst of sock inspiration (Knitting Iris did it to me--she makes me want to be a sock knitter!) I had just a month ago. I even tried a new pattern--the toe up. But alas, just barely past the toes and I decided I didn't like the colors, so there it sits. This, my friends, is why--with a heavy heart--I admit that I cannot make those fabulous over the knee holiday socks. Sigh.

Here is the one lone 'pair' of socks that I've ever made. Booties, yes...lots of them. But socks...this is it. (Yankee Knitter Designs, Classic Socks. can't remember the yarn.) I do have to say that both of my boys have worn and loved them, so that should be enough motivation to start anew right there.

C'mon...fess up. How many 'one socks' are hiding at YOUR house? I can't be the only one!

Handknit Holidays

So, picture this: Last week, armed with a moment alone and a gift card (thank you, Katie!), I headed on over to my local independent bookstore. I had a list of 6 books, because more often than not in this tiny bookstore, they don't have just what I'm looking for. So I had my list of backups-- books that have been sitting at the top of my wishlist for a while now*. And wouldn't you know it....they had ALL six. All Six! And my gift card was for ONE. (Must not spend beyond the budget. Must not spend beyond the budget!!). I was a mess....I picked one up, put another down, held on to two, put those down and picked up another, walked up to the counter, then turned around, and on and on and on until I had all six books in my hand and sat down with a near nervous breakdown. Trying to breathe, I closed my eyes and shuffled them around and picked Handkit Holidays. And I slowly released my grip on the others and walked out of the store (after I paid for it, of course). I think I made the right decision. This book rocks. (I do think it's a poorly chosen title that might deter people, though...there are sooo many things in the book beyond the 'holidays'.) And like the other Melanie Falick books I have, I just can't decide what to knit first.

I'm totally digging these over the knee socks! Amazing, no?!! But my history of sock making is not so fab. (More on THAT saga coming soon.)

And so, this was the second project that struck me. A knit dog, and I just happened to have enough Patagonia Nature Cotton yarn in my stash to make it. Yes, a blue dog (c'mon, haven't you read Go, Dog, Go?). It's coming along nicely, and such a treat to knit on size 6 needles for a change (I have three projects on hold right now--all on size twos. Oy.)

(*In case you were wondering, the other five that didn't make the cut were: The New Crewel, Julie and Julia, Nikon D50 Field Guide , Loop-D-Loop, and Living Out Loud. I hope I made the right choice! Ah, book buyer's remorse!)

Winter Ensemble, part one

I introduce you to Part One of my soon-to-be completed winter ensemble of choice.

Pattern: Neck Warmer from Knitscene (generously gifted to me by The Crafty Modster--thank you!)
Yarn: Nashua Handknits, Creative Focus Worsted, which is a wool/alpaca blend. In oatmeal color. I just love that as a color. oatmeal. oatmeal. Ordered from Jimmy Beans Wool, 'cause they're just so fast and accomodating (especially for annoying after-ordering mind changers like myself).
Notes: Very easy, very fun to knit. (Two movies, tops.) I wasn't sure how functional this contraption would be, but I think I'm going to like it--it's not as bulky as a scarf, and it's kinda cute.

And now, for a sneak preview of part two. A delectable treat that Steve bought for me for Solstice. It's Khorma, by The Fibre Company, a Portland fiber arts company. I will happily marry these two colors (oatmeal and melon, oatmeal and melon!) to complete the 'ensemble' with mittens and a hat. (sorry--bad light photo).

And yes, Steve bought me YARN for Solstice. YARN. GORGEOUS yarn. I love that man.

The Stockings Are Hung

Not every holiday crafting goal was met (sadly, the tunic will wait until the New Year, but that's okay, because right now he's going back and forth between Blackbeard the pirate, and Gretl from The Sound of Music), but atleast the important goals were met: everyone has a stocking. We needed two new additions this year....Miss Adelaide, and Banjo the cat, of course. Our gift exchange and major celebrating happened on Solstice, but on Christmas morning, we do stockings and then host a small brunch with friends and family. (It's always about the food, as far as I'm concerned.)

First up, the critters. Banjo's on the left with some sweet vintage kitty fabric from Jessie's mom, that was left over from a dress I made for Adelaide. And then the doggers each get one with the Munki Munki dog fabric that I love. I kind of forgot until writing this that I actually need to *get* something to put in their stockings. Oops.

The Papa and the Mama stocking. I made Steve's the first year we were married, it's a pattern from Christmas Stockings: 18 Holiday Treasures to Knit. (I don't have the book anymore or I'd tell you the pattern name, sorry!) I'm pretty sure that's Lamb's Pride worsted. And then my stocking was a quick whip-up last year on about December 24th, I believe. It's just felt, with some flowers and favorite vintage buttons as the center. Someday, I'll make myself something fabulous. Or maybe the kids will. ;)

And the wee ones. Calvin's on the left is also from the book Christmas Stockings, again with Lamb's Pride yarn. It's very cute, but every year I need to reattach the damn snowflakes that always fall off. Ezra's in the middle is my favorite (if I may be so partial), it's a basic sock pattern that I just made really big, with ribbing at the top, and sewed on felt balls that we made. I took some inspiration from an Anthropologie baby sweater I was coveting at the time. And then last, is Adelaide's--put together last week. Not sure if you can see it, but I quilted it onto some batting, lined it, and added some pompom fringe and rick rack (of course). Even after my post about it, I was really lacking any inspiration for it, and I think it kind of shows.

I can't wait for a cup of hot chocolate and full stockings by the woodstove! Cozy!

My Favorite Things

(Not a great photo of this fab yarn, but it's the only way I could photograph my hands. I didn't realize until cropping this that I'm (still) wearing a sequined headband from the kids' dress up. I was a very glamorous Tooth Fairy today, if you're wondering.)

These handwarmers are some of my favorite things (are you singing the song yet?). I'm always on the chilly side, and these are just perfect for wearing in the house (after Steve reminds me that it costs money to keep the house heated to 75 degrees. oops.), or out in that in-between weather. And with the right clothes, these mitts also provide a bit of sass when that's required (you know, like when a kid messes with mine at the playground).

Back to the mitts. I've made lots of these for myself and friends, using the Fingerless Mitt pattern from Weekend Knitting (one of my favorite knitting books). This yummy pair is headed across the country to a friend who I hope might love them too. I knit this pair with Patagonia Nature Cotton. (my first time using it, and I'm quite pleased. kettle dyed. yum.)  I've seen similar free patterns here, here, and here (I like these ribbed ones a lot).

My Hat of Choice

Hat wearing season has officially begun here in Maine, and with it--lots of knitting. I've been making this hat for a few years, and it's my favorite hat to make--it's got enough spice to it that I don't get terribly bored knitting it, but it still knits up quite fast (it's a two-movie hat to be precise). The only problem has been that I never write down exactly how I make it. So each fall, I have to fiddle around with the pattern until I remember it again. No more! I wrote it down this time, and here it is for my reference, and for you too, if you're interested.

Yarn: Heavy Worsted (i love to use Manos del Uruguay for this hat), gauge of 4 sts to the inch.
You need: size 9 (or whatever size you need to get gauge) circular needles, and dpn's in the same or slightly smaller size for finishing the top.

Cast on 67 sts., on circular needles. Join for working in the round.
Work in garter stitch (k1 round, p1 round) for 1", then:
Round 1: K1, *yo, k2tog* repeat to end of round.
Round 2: Repeat row 1
Round 3: Purl
Round 4: Purl
Round 5: Purl

Repeat the pattern of these five rounds for a total of 5 times (this will make a hat that just covers your ears, if you like it longer or shorter, either subtract or add one more of the five row pattern).

K 2 rounds plain, then begin decrease (switching to dpn's when needed):

K1, *k4, k2tog* repeat to end of round.
K one row
K1, *k3, k2tog* repeat to end of round.
K one row
k1, *k2, k2tog* repeat to end of round.
K one row
k1, *k1, k2tog* repeat to end of round.
*k2 tog* to end of round.

Gather stitches at top and weave in ends.

Let me know if you make it--I'd love to see it, or if you find any errors in it (I hope not!).

Self Portrait Tuesday: Identity

Self Portrait Tuesday: Identity Theme.

Knitter.
My grandmothers--one a professional seamstress, and the other a prolific knitter--each tried to teach me to knit several times when I was a child. I didn't get it. I got so confused and frustrated and it never made sense to me. I tried again as a teenager, and then again in college. When I was pregnant with Calvin, I tried one more time (I *really* wanted to be a knitter!). By that time, I had learned enough about my own learning style to know that someone "showing" me how to knit would never work. So instead, I read about it. It was actually a Martha Stewart baby magazine I found that showed the basics of knitting-- with few pictures and lots of text. It was just what I needed...it finally "clicked' for me and I was instantly hooked. I know so many people who have started knitting while pregnant--not sure what that's about, but it's pretty wild. Perhaps it's all the fun knitting to be done for baby--baby hats, baby booties, baby blankets...who can resist? Once I started, I couldn't stop....I would knit while nursing a baby, while reading, and yes, even at stop lights. My knitting production has slowed down tremendously since I began sewing again a few years ago (and perhaps since my life got a bit busier with three children, too), but still...there's nothing for me that beats knitting by a woodstove in the depths of a Maine winter. Heavenly. I love how knitting can simultaneously be an "escape" when that's needed, while at the same time, it can bring me more fully into the present moment with it's meditative nature. And the way it connects me to generations of women before me is so powerful. And handknit treats? There's nothing better....

Self Portrait Tuesday bloggers here.

Yarn Recommendations?

I MUST make this dress. Is it not just adorable? It's the Dress with Eyelets from the Debbie Bliss Baby Knits for Beginners book. (Why I'm about to put myself through the torture of a Debbie Bliss pattern, and size 2 needles is beyond me--I swear each time that I'll never do it again). The pattern calls for her yarn (surprised?)...the wool/cotton, which is no longer made, I believe. Does anyone have a good replacement for it? I know her cashmerino is the same weight, but I kind of like the idea of doing a wool cotton blend since this will be a winter dress. Oh, the gauge is 25st and 34 rows to 4in., or 6.25  sts to 1", DK weight, for those of you as atrocious with math as I am.

Any ideas?

Knitting Again

Besides the Katrina Quilt square, and some light mending, I haven't figured out a way to sew since Adelaide was born. Oh well...it's still early and I have faith that I'll find my way back to the machine. I have, however, had plenty of time (okay, well maybe "plenty of time" isn't the best phrase...let's just say a few minutes a day!) for knitting thanks to our sudden burst of late night TV watching. We're catching up on season four of Six Feet Under, and of course, the Red Sox. Go Sox! (Steve calls me a playoff fan because I ignore the 500 games-I swear that's an accurate count-- prior to this point in the season, and now I'm all jazzed up about baseball at the end).

But I digress. Back to knitting. Here's the hat I knit up for EzzaBoo during all the TV watching last week. It's with leftover yarn from the Wild Stripes blanket, which I swear is almost done (the knitting is done! I just need to back it, and like I said, sewing time is hard to come by these days). I'm so psyched, because the yarn was so cheap to begin with (from KnitPicks) and I made the entire (huge) baby blanket, and will have enough leftover for hats for all three kids (all deserving of their own posts upon completion in the near future, of course). Makes me feel all good and thrifty.

I'm happy with how this turned out, considering I've taken a few years off from hat making, and totally wung the pattern based on guesswork. Yipee! My brain still works!

Almost Knitting

No crafting happening here yet, but atleast I'm thinking about it! I'm itching for a new knitting project--something for a grown up (ME!) out of some fabulous yarn. I just saw that HandPainted Yarn has two new yarns, Ejido 160 and Colonia 140. I've been a huge fan of their Merino Worsted in the past, and used it for lots of projects (bummer that they don't seem to carry it at all anymore). Check out these yummy colors:

But then there's this one from Knit Pixie  that is just oh-so-heavenly too:

I don't even know what project I want this all for. I'm just CRAVING NEW YARN! And browsing around, I've seen two new knitting books that have my interest piqued, but so far, not many reviews about either are around. Has anyone picked either of these up yet? Any thoughts?

Handknits for Kids by Lucinda Guy. You can see some of the patterns in the book at the KnitPicks website (View Inside Pages).

And, Alterknits, by Leigh Radford.

Has anyone seen these yet?

Finally, Some Knitting

This labor may not be progressing much (but we're not talking about that, okay?), but atleast there's some knitting progress around here. I made these booties for my sister who's having a girl in November (unless, of course, I have a girl first and can't possibly give them away..hee hee.)

The pattern is the Simple T Strap Shoe from the book 50 Baby Booties to Knit by Zoe Mellor. I used Debbie Bliss Cashmerino yarn. Yummy. The pattern was straightforward, pretty easy, and they were quick to knit up--even on size 3 needles. But for some reason when I knit, I don't feel like sewing...and I think her patterns require a lot of sewing, so for that reason this is only the second pair of bootees I've knit from this book in the three years that I've had it. Oh well, another bad knitting book investment.

Now on to finishing the Wild Stripes baby blanket--I'm almost done, just lots and lots of weaving in of ends to finish.

Knitting Progress Report

Here's where I'm at with the super Mama socks I posted about awhile back.  Almost one whole sock. This is about the point where I usually lose interest in sock knitting, and I'm afraid it's starting to happen again. A bad sign is that I've purchased yarn for the "next" project, and just might jump ahead....

The Wild Stripes baby blanket from the most recent Knitty.  I was feeling completely color challenged when ordering, and really like the colors it was designed in, so I ordered exactly that yarn. Besides, I've been wanting an excuse to try out Knitpicks and see if my yarn snobbish doubts about it are true. The yarn arrived today and I've already cast on! I've only got a few weeks left to get this baby blanket done....can I do it? It is sportweight, with fabric backing. Oy. Guess I'll be putting those socks down for a bit.

Salt Peanuts, Anyone?

I'm cleaning out my yarn stash and hoping to pass along some yarn to a new home.  Here's Salt Peanuts from the Interweave Knits Spring 2004 issue. This is the yarn called for in that pattern. 18 skeins of Muench Bergamo 100% wool. 66 yards/skein. Color: Heather Grey.  (I believe this was enough to make the 36" chest size with some leftover).  Two skeins have been rolled into balls, the rest are still in the bag. I can't remember what I paid for this, I think it was over $100 orginally, but I'd let it go for $50, including shipping to the US, needs to be paid via paypal. I believe this yarn is discontinued. Email me at ssoule(at)maine.rr.com if you're interested. I can also send a copy of the pattern if you need it.

Fiber Books for Kids

I'm always on the lookout for books for kids that relate to fiber/sewing, etc. I thought I'd share a few of our favorites--most of these are in our collection, but a few I'd like to add soon.

Pelle's New Suit, by Elsa Beskow. One of our absolute favorite books, about a boy who needs a new suit as his own is getting too small--he trades his "work" for all the steps of the process of a new suit--shearing the wool, spinning the yarn, weaving, sewing, etc. Lovely, lovely illustrations by Beskow.

The Mitten, by Jan Brett. The story of a mitten knit by grandmother that gets lost in the snow and has lots of adventures with the animals along the way.

Red Berry Wool, by Robyn Eversole. Lalo the lamb wants a sweater like his shephard. The story is his adventure as he tried to turn his own fleece into a sweater. Very endearing story of love.

Grandpa Bears Fantastic Scarf, by Gillian Heal. So sweet. Each day, Grandpa (yes, grandpa knits!) knits a bit of his life into his fantastic scarf--his feelings, experiences, etc...until it's a long, full life full of a scarf. He teaches his grandson to do the same--weaving the past of his ancestors in too. Lovely, lovely book.

A Symphony for the Sheep, by Cynthia Millen. A poetic story of the life of sheep and how their coat is turned into clothing, set in Irelend. Illustrated with hand colored woodcuts.

A New Coat for Anna, by Harriet Ziefert. In post World War II, a mother trades and barters to have a coat made for her daughter. In the end, they visit the sheep to show them their wool as a coat! Sweetly illustrated by Anita Lobel.

Something From Nothing, by Pheobe Gilman. (Thanks to LoriKay for this recommend.)  Grandfather, the tailor makes his grandson a blanket, which then becomes a jacket, a button, and a story. Beautiful illustrations!

That's all I can think of at the moment. Do you know of others?

Knitting for Mama

I tried. Really, I did. I tried to resist all the amazing, wonderful new knitting books that have appeared in the past few months. I thought for sure it was going to be Teva Durham's Loop-d-Loop that did me in, but I've shown remarkable restraint. That is, until I walked into my local yarn store (I swear, it was only for stitch markers!), sans children, and with  cash in my pocket (you know, intended for groceries or something frivilous like that).  Bad, Bad News. I picked up the new Sarah Dallas Knitting book and tried desperately to talk myself out of it ("hmn...let's count again all your knitting books, Amanda, and how many patterns you've actually made out of each," or "what about all the fabulous FREE knitting patterns online," and "so, what about that HOUSE you want to buy?"...you know the drill). I put the book down, walked around a bit, and picked it back up. About three times. Atleast. And then....then, something in me snapped and the downward spiral of justification began. I was a goner, and so was that cash. Because not only did I have to buy the book (a mere $30), but of course, I needed to buy new yarn for my first project from the book. I tried to go "small" and settled for socks. You know, $40 socks.  Nope, I couldn't substitute the Rowan yarn in the pattern for something cheaper. Oh no. I was on a roll at this point with the justification--telling myself that surely, after all this baby knitting, I deserved just a little something special myself, right? Something for all those long fall days after the wee one is born, when I'm at home ALL DAY LONG because I can't figure out how to get three children out of the house.  Surely, on those days when I'm covered in baby spit up, leaking breast milk, and have peanut butter in my hair, I deserve a little bit of bliss on my toes, right? THIS is why I needed this book, and this yarn. 'Cause I'm a good Mama, damn it.

See the trouble I can get myself into? Yup, $78 later, I got those damned stitch markers, alright.

Placket Neck Sweater

Here's the finished Placket Neck Sweater from Last Minute Knitted Gifts. I'm lovin' the way the buttons look on the sweater. If you're very observant, you'll notice that in the original pattern photo, the placket is in the *center*, but alas...this pattern was seriously screwed up. Apparently, I have an early edition of this book, which has since been updated. I was almost "done" with the sweater when I realized there were a few things a bit wonky with it, and decided to look for pattern corrections online. Um yeah, there were definitely some serious pattern corrections--like the whole pattern. Ugh. Lesson learned.  I frogged almost the whole thing, and yet still, going back and forth between the two versions of the pattern, I managed to get the placket off to one side. No matter--it's still cute, I think.  Here are the details for those interested:

Pattern: Child's Placket Neck Pullover from Last Minute Knitted Gifts
Yarn: Pakucho Organic Cotton, in chocolate (this came from my stash, but it happens to be on sale at Elann right now for $2.98! Wow!)
Pattern Notes: Um, check the book corrections at Purl Soho to be sure you have the correct version of the pattern in your book! If you've got the right version, the pattern's a relative breeze. I love that it's given in so many sizes (newborn to 10 years), for all those freaks like me who like to make their children matching clothes.

Knitting For Baby...again

After knitting the sweater I finished last week in olive and blue colors "boy" colors (whatever that means), I thought it was safe to knit a pink hat (I'm way superstitious about these things).  I used the free, super easy and super cute pattern for this Gnomey Hat from Hello Yarn (Thank you, Hello Yarn--free patterns are cool).  Knit with some leftover merino I had from Handpainted Yarn.  I can't decide if I'm going to put pom poms on the side or not.  (Special thanks to the adorable Guthrie for modeling.)

And since my knitting friends were meeting for some group knit time, I quickly needed to find a new project. Thankfully for my budget, I went no further than my stash to find this yummy espresso colored organic cotton yarn from Peru. I have just enough to make the Child's Placket Neck Pullover  in Last Minute Knitted Gifts.  A baby can't have too many adorable handknit sweaters, can they?

Knitting For Baby

There really is nothing more fun in knitting for me, than knitting for a babe. Not only is it so wonderful to be thinking of a little one while knitting for them, but it's also so highly satisfying to make "small" things that are finished fairly quickly! Here is the kimono sweater that I just finished for our soon-to-be-arriving wee one, from the Spring issue of Interweave Knits. I posted the pattern pic a few weeks ago. The sweater went very well--a very easy, garter stitch project. Perfect to knit while watching movies...or children. Once the sweater was done, and there was some yarn leftover, I thought it was crying out for some matching booties. The verigated colors aren't so beautiful on camera, but this cotton is so silky smooth and the colors blend really well together. I can't wait to put this set on a baby!

Pattern Details, for anyone interested:
Sweater: Kimono Baby Sweater from Summer 2005 Interweave Knits, knit with 100% cotton Fiorini by Lang & Co.
Booties:  Stay On Baby Booties from Knitting for Baby by Melanie Falick.  This is my favorite baby bootie pattern--they really, really do stay on, and are fun to knit up, particularly after you've done the pattern a time or two. It's my standby baby shower gift.

Vintage Favorites

I have a huge love for vintage knitting and crochet patterns, and fortunately, a stash to satisfy. I love looking through all these old patterns, and trying a few once in a while.  Here's one of my favorites, Accesories from Red Heart Yarns, circa 1952.

Aren't these mittens / puppets so cute? Sometime I'll make these for all the little ones I know. Someday.

I love this yellow fanned bolero thingy. Isn't it cute? Too bad it's knit on a size two needles.

I ADORE the shape of the pink hat on the girl in the middle.  And what's up with the blue one on the littler girl?

This is just a fun picture. Fun hat...

And finally....a MUST HAVE for all of us....pom pom slippers. Definitely in yellow.

Summer Knitting

Usually, I don't find a lot in the summer issues of knitting magazines, but in this issue of Interweave Knits I can't decide which project to start with! I really adore the Lace Leaf Pullover-- an excerpt from Teva Durham's book Loop D Loop. (Which, by the way, you MUST check out if you haven't seen her designs--simply amazing).  But then there's all the shrugs, and the fun bolero, and look at that dress! Ah.....

So much fun stuff in there. But being in the baby zone that I'm in, I opted for a simple, sweet baby kimono for my next project. Last night I snuck away for a yarn shopping trip ALONE and found this luscious 100% cotton yarn Fiorina by Lang and Co. Isn't it beautiful?

The Bolero that wanted to be a V Neck

Once upon a time, I was on a search for a pattern like this. I found this, and not only paid $20 for the damn magazine (the English Rebecca), but I also a ridiculous amount of money on the yarn for it that I don't even love (it's called yarn shopping with two toddlers...doesn't work). Anyway, the bolero just wasn't working. At all. So....my dreams of wearing a bolero turned into the reality of a post-baby belly autumn in need of comfy sweaters. And hence, on another search, I finally found this pattern from www.glampyre.com. And then I bought more of the yarn that I don't even like. Which brings us finally to the end result of this sweater.  I still don't like the yarn. But it's a comfy sweater--cozy--and perfect for hiding a little post-baby pooch, which will come in handy soon if I keep eating all these banana splits.

Pattern: Easy Raglan V-Neck from Glampyre.com
Yarn: Classic Elite Beatrice, 100% Merino wool (12 skeins--yikes!)
Pattern Notes:  This is a great top down knit sweater pattern. Suitable for beginners, I'd say. And perfect for an "easy" knit for a more experienced knitter (it was great for watching movies, and stoplights too!).  I was a bit confused by some things in the pattern, but Stephanie, who whote it, was AWESOME about clarifying, and even changing the pattern to correct the confusion. The original pattern didn't have the ribbed v-neck, but I thought mine looked unfinished when it was done, so I picked up stitches around the neck and added the ribbing there. I think I'll try this pattern again sometime later--with yarn I love (I'm thinking some handspun handdyed wool with lots of color variation...yummy!).

Hat Swap Hats

These two hats are my contribution for the Baby/Toddler Hat Swap on Craftster. The first hat is a knit and felted hat pattern from Pick Up Sticks.  It's such a fun pattern, and using size 10's and worsted weight yarn (this is Cascade 220), it whips up in no time at all. I used french knots for the dots. I made one of these for Ezra this winter, and I just love it (and he even does too!).

The second hat is the same hat pattern that I've been using lately to make kids hats with (and similar adult hats are coming soon with yummy Amy Butler fabric!), modified a bit each time until I can finally get it "just right".

The sign up for this swap was way back in January, I think. And the deadline was this week, so yeah...that means I had four months to make these hats with no rush, right? Of course I was finishing them this weekend. What's THAT about? ;)

Rainy Days

It's been raining here for three days (and it's expected to rain for the rest of the week), and while that may not be so good for little boys who need to run and play outside, it's been great for Mama's craft time.  I guess it's all about balance. ;) Here are a few things I finished up this weekend, with more coming tomorrow.

My mom used to dress my three sisters and I in matching clothes all the time. And we hated it. And we swore we would NEVER do that to OUR children. Yeah, well, sorry boys.....it's just too much damn fun. Sadly, I used almost all of this fabric that I love--it's from the Makower UK collection, and I stumbled on it for $1 a yard at a local surplus store--very sweet. Thanks to Nana (aka the Buttonhole Queen) for her help once again. And hey, I finally figured out a way to make Ezra pose for the camera--wait till he's asleep!! ;)

And here are the fingerless mitts from Weekend Knitting by Melanie Falick.  I have made these mitts for so many gifts in the past two years, but this is my first pair for me! I used some leftovers of the merino worsted from Hand Painted Yarn (sanfelipeysantiago on Ebay), which I just adore--it reminds me a lot of Manos Del Uruguay. But sadly, they've been out of stock on the worsted merino for quite a while now. Good thing I'm a yarn hoarder and I still have a bunch in my stash.

Ah, Summer Knitting!

Just when I had decided I would stop buying Interweave Knits (because I was finding less in there that interested me), I see the preview for the Summer Issue, and I'm in love.  All the shrugs and shoulder wraps! And those adorable baby gifts! The embroidered bag! Ah....summer knits.

Damn it, I just subscribed. So much for cutting that magazine out of the budget....sorry, Steve!

Country Rug

About a year ago, I was convinced that crocheting would become my new knitting. Um, yeah. That didn't happen. But I did eek out a few crocheting projects while I had the gusto. And the first project I decided to do was a rug. Yes, a rug. Which, by the way, is precisely why I've decided that I can no longer make any big craft decisions alone...I need a Craft Coach...you know, like a life coach, to help me stay on track and in reality with my crafting goals. Hmnn...a career possibility here? 

My brief interest in crocheting was perfectly timed with Interweave Knits' splurge into crocheting last spring--this rug was in the IK Spring 2004 issue (which I now think of as the  cursed issue--since I have the Salt Peanuts Sweater yarn also sitting and waiting for completion):

And here we are a year later:

Yes, a whole year into it. It's actually bigger than it looks--it's almost 28" across, but wow, it's SLOW going on the rounds now, and well, as boring as hell. But I do pick it up from time to time--mostly in between other projects, and I'm sure that someday soon I will finish. I'd like to go to 35" or so, and then felt it slightly. In retrospect I wish I had gone for bolder colors, but I'm a little far in for that kind of thinking. ;)

Use Your Knitting Powers for Good

Ugh. I'm sick. Some weird feverish, chest cold kind of thing. Ick. So, in lieu of a "regular" post today, I wanted to pass on this wicked (yes, I'm in Maine) cool project I read about in the most recent issue of Bust magazine. Head on over to www.microrevolt.org and read about the petition against sweatshop labor. My fevered head won't attempt to describe it, except to say...knitters (and crocheters and seamstresses, etc)  totally "get" the amount of work that really goes into making clothing. So pick up your needles to make a 4" square to add to the "petition", and join the action.

I'm going back to bed.  Ugh.

Finally, a New Knitting Endeavor.

I'm trying to recover from what has been possibly my worst knitting drought ever (a bit dramatic this morning?).  It started with--of course--a ton of Christmas/Solstice presents that eventually weren't so "fun" to knit night after night; and then there was the damned legwarmer saga ; and then the two (yes, two) hats I need to knit for a Craftster swap due in a few weeks (have I started? No! I'm a work under pressure-right at the deadline kinda gal); and lastly in my knitting stump has been a  linen lace washcloth on size 1 needles (!) that just ain't happenin' so fast (even though it needs to happen because it's part of a collaborative wedding gift for a knitting group member due basically, um, now!).

So, anyway, I've  found this wonderful cropped cardigan (aka, a bolero!) in issue 28 of Rebecca  that will get me over this knitting stump. I love it! And think it will be so much fun to wear with a pregnant belly this spring and summer. I wanted to use a yarn quite different from the one used in the pattern (GGH Amelie), and found this Classic Elite Beatrice merino wool that I really like at my favorite LYS (Stitching Mantis in Cape Elizabeth). Sometimes I kinda suck at colors (I particularly suck at picking out colors with a 2 year old on my hip, and a 4 year old running through the yarn store loading up with random balls of "yellow" yarn), but I think this tweedy effect might work. We'll see. I gauged and then started last night while watching Charlotte Gray (which I LOVED....Cate Blanchett is so hot).

In other exciting news....it's been raining here for two days and melting lots of snow. Yahoo!!! And today, the sun is shining, and I hear it might reach the high 50's. Spring really is coming, isn't it??!

Hoppin' down the bunny trail.....

Pattern:  Lovable Toys from Last Minute Knitted Gifts by Joelle Hoverson
Yarn: Green Mountain Spinnery's Mountain Mohair
Pattern Notes: This was such a fun pattern to do! I got totally stumped at one point on the joining of the legs (for some reason, the simple step--albiet with two circular needles-- was getting me all confused), but the friendly folks over at Craftster set me straight. I stuffed him with cotton. Overall, I'm pleased with how it came out.  I am once again reminded that my embroidery skills could use some work, and I think the ears look more like an elephants.  But all of  that's okay....my kids are amazingly forgiving. ;)

Okay, one more bunny to go! Six days. I can do it. I can do it. I can do it. Whew.

Knitted Toys

The knitted bunny is almost done....really it's close! Unfortunately, so is Easter, and I had hopes of making one for each of the boys' baskets. Hmn....still possible.

I thought a little inspiration for knitted toys would help me get motivated, so here's a quick pic of some other little bobbles I've knit for the boys.

The rug in the attic of the farmhouse is one that my great grandmother made when she was a little girl, learning how to knit! What a treat that I found it. The two large balls are from Melanie Falick's' Knitting for Baby book--they're felted. Really a fun project, and great baby gift. Which reminds me that I should make some more. ;) And then, in the "attic" is the shy sheep, the kitty cat, and downstairs is the gnome boy. All three of those are from a copyright free waldorf brochure I have, so I'd be happy to (legally!) post the knitting directions if anyone wants them--all three are quite easy.

Okay, back to the bunny!

The Winter that just won't end...

This is about the point in each year where I seriously question our decision to live in Maine. This is what my garden looks like right now. More snow.  And more snow coming.

So while we're snowbound, I'm getting a few things done. I made a simple head kerchief from the vintage pattern I posted yesterday. Calvin wants me to make him one now too. ;) I love this fabric I used--it's from the Free Spirit line, I got it at Marden's for $2 a yard! WooHoo!

And here's a felted, knit bear that I made for Calvin a long time ago. But just today got around to putting on the face and clothes. The eyes are kinda freakin me out a bit, so they might have to go. But up close--they're really beautiful vintage buttons.

Okay, back to watching the snow with the boys, and knitting a bunny!

Legwarmers: Third Try's No Charm

In my (what seems like) neverending search for the perfect legwarmer pattern and yarn, I believe I've forced myself into a knitting brick wall. Knitting legwarmers is surely worse than the curse of knitting socks (when you're DONE with one, you still have to do another!). If you're not a knitter, you don't get this.  So...rather than knit them, I'll just document my failed attempts in this legwarmer search.

Attempt #1: Pattern from Last Minute Knitted Gifts. Can't even remember what yarn I used--that's how much it excites me. I think it was a merino blend something or other. But both the color and the feel just aren't doin it for me.

Attempt #2: Pattern from The Knitting Garden . But it totally just didn't work with the yarn I got. It looks HUGE on my leg. Like, crazy huge.

Attempt #3: Again, the pattern from Last Minute Knitted Gifts, and knit with the recommended yarn (ah, what an  idea!), which is Rowan Kidsilk and Cascade 220. I love the colors, I love the feel, and I love using circular needles on something so small. But alas, I think I'm just plain burnt out on legwarmers now. I've been working on these for over a month! And this is how far I've got. I think it's time to let go.......

Have You Seen This Pattern?

Has anyone seen a pattern for an ultra-cropped cardigan like this one? I simply must, must, must have it for my one and only springtime belly (both the other baby bellies were hidden under wintertime garb! Ugh!). I'm almost thinking about trying to design a pattern myself if I can't find one close to this, but wow, that could be scary.

The Itchy Sweater

Get ready for a week's worth of backed up photos..... So here's the "itchy sweater" as it's come to be known by my sweet child. I made this for him almost two years ago, and it just fits him now (Yeah, Debbie Bliss pattern sizes SUCK!!)..I think it's so cute on him! It's from Quick Baby Knits by Debbie Bliss, and I made it with Lamb's Pride worsted weight, 'casue that's pretty much all I knitted with at the time. I don't think the sweater is actually itchy....but my mom said to him about a year ago when he was wearing one of my sweaters, "Isn't that itchy, Calvin?" and since then, ALL the sweaters I've made him are "itchy"...even cotton ones. Thanks mom. Anyway....I still think it's adorable....perhaps Ezra will wear it?

Inspiration

So I started this blog totally intending to use it share daily creations with online crafty folk. BUT....in recent months, my creative spark has gone kaput (It's gotten so bad that I've been watching movies WITHOUT even knitting!! Oy! What has become of me?). Thank goodness I've got the boys to fill the blogging void in the meantime. :) In the meantime, while *I* haven't been crafting, I have been watching others--and am totally inspired by my daily check ins at: Craftster Wee Wonderfuls My Paper Crane Thimble Knit Happens So, to spark my interest, I recently ordered some of my favorite yarn from my favorite seller at www.handpaintedyarn.com (thanks for the link, Trina!).  And finally, the yarn arrived yesterday:

Is it not luscious??? I can't wait to dive in--not sure what to do with it yet. I was thinking another Sophie bag, but wouldn't this make a beautiful BABY blanket, with some Rowan kidsilk mohair added in? Ah, dreamy. I'm hoping the inspiration continues and that this means a beginning to the end of this terrible first trimester. I've spent enough time hanging out on the bathroom floor--I'm ready to do some knitting!!!

Felted Kids Hat

Just finished this fun pattern from Pick Up Sticks that I found at KnitWit on Congress Street (the newish cafe/yarn store). I used the recommended yarn--Cascade 220, which I'd never used before, but really liked, particularly the price tag ($6.50 for a skein!). I bought several combinations of the yarn colors so I think I can get quite a few of these hats out of them. This one might be for a baby hat swap on Craftster, if Ezra doesn't claim it first. ;) Here it is, pre-felted:

and here it is, after slight felting and adding all the french knots:

and here's a fuzzy pic of it on za za's head:

Recent Finished Projects

My fav....the SpiderWeb Capelet from Stitch N Bitch Nation, done in kettle dyed yarn from Ebay seller sanfelipeysantiago (love their stuff!). I still need to do some more blocking on this.... And then, the baby booties from Knitting for Babies by Melanie Falick, knit with a local handpainted yarn. I love these booties--they totally stay on! These ones were traded with a friend for some kick-ass pottery of his. I'm very happy with my trade. Here's my favorite felted bag pattern, the Sophie from MagKnits, first, prefelted: and then, after, with my favorite vintage pin to liven it up. Done in the same yarn as the capelet. (am I obnoxious to keep going? I've been busy, okay?!) On to sewing.....here's the Amy Butler Cafe Apron. I really like this pattern, but next time I'll be sure to actually measure my waist instead of assuming I'm 3 inches smaller than I am. Oops. I won't show you the big gap in the back. And, here's the Amy Butler Runway Shoulder Bag. I like how it came out, but I'm not so fond of the side zipper feature on it, so I don't think I'll really use it. Damn. and the inside: And the Amy Butler Nappy Bag (even though I'm not british, can I use that word? cause it's soo much cooler than diaper). I used some fabric from www.reprodepotfabrics.com that reminds me of Elsa Beksow. I really like the bag, but it's HUGE! It was quite an undertaking too... Here's a slightly silly, but totally loved by my mom bag....from the Stitch N Bitch DIY Tote Pattern, and with an iron on transfer of a pic of the boys. Aww.