Knitapalooza

santa baby hat is finished...

2011-11-04T13:46:00.000-07:00

Lala's scarf...

2011-10-16T16:02:00.000-07:00

I started this one day and finished the next day. The pattern is here: Crochet Ruffle Scarf
I added a few more rows, because Lauren asked me to make it uber long, so she could wrap it. These photos do not show the true prettinessof this scarf. (They were done in poor lighting, so I'll re-take more pics later).

Update from swap...

2011-09-29T14:09:00.000-07:00

forgot to show what Kathy did to the owl's wing...........

(my tattoo):

Cascade Cloud 9'....

2011-09-29T12:58:00.000-07:00

The Mitts are coming along, but I'm stuck on the thumb gusset. Will have Vickie help me tomorrow.
I am using Cascade Cloud 9 Yarn in a soft blue. (50% angora and 50% wool)

and...............

I bought these 2 skeins of Cascade Cloud 9 in Pink for Lauren's Scarf and Mitts from a gal on Ravelry (only $10 for $17 worth of yarn, not bad, eh?)

Gag Swap (arrived)...

2011-09-29T11:23:00.000-07:00

Kathy Schreiman (aka: yoursbydesign on Ravelry) sent me this fabulous Gag Swap package! She included a cutie patooie Pug sticky notepad, some ‘Dog Slobber’ Hand Sanitizer (how fun is this), a ‘Taste of Atlanta’ Fork-Pen and a Hand Knit ‘Lucy-the-Owl’….whom will spend loads of time hanging out with Penny-the-Monster, I can assure you. Thank you so much Kathy for such a FUN and adorable Gag Swap package!!!!

Crochet Hobo Bag...

2011-09-27T05:53:00.000-07:00

Pattern written by Dao Lam

Materials:
2 skeins Wool of the Andes Chunky (www.knitpicks.com)
Hooks size K-11 (6.5mm), J-10 (6mm), and H-8 (5mm)
Tapestry needle to weave in ends
Lining fabrics of choice
One set of magnetic snaps
One purse handle (usually sold in a set of 2 but only need 1)
Ribbon of choice
Sewing threads that match color of yarn and lining (or invisible threads)

Instructions: Pay close attention to any changes in hook size that are indicated at the beginning of the row.

Row 1: use hook K-11 (6.5mm) ch 44

Row 2: from the fourth ch sp from hook, make three dc in the same sp, *sk 3 ch spaces, 4 dc in the next sp * until the end of the ch, make 3 ch, repeat * * on the back loop of the ch, ch 3, sl st to the 3rd ch of the first ch3 sp to join. (22 ch4 clusters, 2 ch3 spaces)

Row 3: sl st 2 times, ch3 (counted as 1dc), 3dc in same space, [*sk 3dc spaces, 4dc in next dc* 10 times, 4dc in ch3 sp], repeat * * 11 times, 4dc in ch3 sp, sl st to the 3rd ch of the first ch3 sp (24 ch4 clusters)

Row 4-12: sl st 2 times, ch 3, 3 dc in same sp, *sk 3dc spaces, 4dc in next dc* 23 times, sl st to the 3rd ch of the first ch3 sp (24 ch4 clusters)

Row 13: sl st, 2 times ch 3, 2dc in same sp *sk 3dc sp, 3dc in next dc* 23 times, sl st to 3rd ch of the first ch 3 sp (24 ch3 clusters)

Row 14: sl st, ch3, 2dc in same sp *sk 2dc sp, 3dc in next dc* 23 times, sl st to 3rd ch from the first ch 3 sp (24 ch3 clusters)

Row 15: ch1, 1 sc, sc all over, sl st on top of the first sc to join (72 sc).

Row 16-17: use hook J-10 (6mm), ch1, 1sc, sc all over, sl st to join (72 sc).

Row 18: use hook H-8 (5mm), ch1, 1sc, sc all over, sl st to join (72 sc).

Leave enough yarn to weave in, cut off yarn and weave in all ends.

To line bag:

Double up fabric, put the body of the bag on top, and use a fabric pencil to draw the shape of the bag. Cut out fabric about ½ further away from the line, except the top leaves an extra 1inch.

If you have a serger, serge all the sides to avoid fraying.
Sew the sides together inside the drawing line (if you sew on the outside the lining will be bigger than the bag). Leave about 1 inch unsown. Pull the liner inside out and attach the snaps as instructed by the package.

Fold the 1-inch on the top of the liner down to cover the back of the snaps; sew the liner to the crocheted bag. Attach handle to the bag. To finish up, use ribbon to weave around the ch3 clusters in row 14, make a small bow.

Wee Tiny Sock Swap Arrived....('Bird' Theme)

2011-09-26T18:19:00.000-07:00

My package arrived today from Jennifer (aka: yarnscribe). She added some Sparkly Blue yarn, a pretty yellow flower pen, a bag of Gummy Worms (birdseat worms-hehehe), 3 Coorful plastic Eggs filled with: 2 mini skeins, an amazing colorful Wee Tiny Bird Sock (so cute) and a Wee Tiny Owl (adorable). She also sent a Pug notepad (I have 2 Pugs)- so this is perfect! A wonderful pattern for Fingerless Gloves and 2 Archer Farms Coffees- oohhh, got to drink them right away! (I'm thinking Pumpkin Spice s first). What a FUN Swap this was. Thanks Jennifer (your package should arrive shortly). Yarn Hugs~

minis....

2011-09-26T10:19:00.000-07:00

Knit Mitten Ornaments By: Red Heart Yarn

RED HEART® “Super Saver®”: 1 skein each 661 Frosty Green A, 332 Ranch Red B, 316 Soft White C
RED HEART® “Fiesta®”: 1 skein 6341 Millennium D
Knitting Needles: 3.75 mm [US 5], 5 mm [US 8]
Crochet Hook: 3.25 mm [US 3]
Yarn needle stitch holder

GAUGE: Gauge is not critical for this pattern. NOTE: Refer to yarn labels for appropriate size needles, and use accordingly.

Special Abbreviation-
Inc: Knit into the front and back of same stitch. 1 stitch increased.

STRIPE PATTERNS
2 Color Version: 2 rows A or B, 2 rows C.

MITTENS -Make 2

Cuff Ribbing- With D (or desired color for solid mitten), cast on 22 sts.
Row 1 (RIGHT SIDE): * K1, p1; repeat from * across.
Repeat Row 1, 5 more times. (1/2/3/4/5)
Begin Pattern
Next Row (RIGHT SIDE): Working in St st, begin desired Stripe Pattern (or continue in solid color) for 2 rows. (1/2)

Shape Thumb
Row 1 (RIGHT SIDE): K10, inc in next 2 sts, k10–24 sts.
Row 2: Purl
Row 3: K10, inc, k2, inc, k10–26 sts.
Row 4: Purl
Row 5: K10, inc, k4, inc, k10–28 sts.
Row 6: Purl

Divide for Thumb
Next Row (RIGHT SIDE): K10, cast on 2 sts, place next 8 sts on stitch holder; k10–22 sts. Work even for 9 rows. (1/2/3/4/5/6/7/8/9)

Shape Top
Next Row (RIGHT SIDE): * K2tog; repeat from * across–11 sts.
Next Row: * P2tog: repeat from * across to last st, p1. Cut yarn, leaving a long end. Weave through remaining 6 sts, pull tightly to secure.

Thumb
Place 8 sts from holder onto needle; with right side facing, attach yarn.
Next Row: Inc, k6, inc–10 sts. Work even for 3 rows. (1/2/3)
Next Row (RIGHT SIDE): *K2tog; repeat from * across. Cut yarn leaving a long end. Weave through remaining 5 sts, pull tightly and fasten.

FINISHING
Sew top and thumb seams. Sew thumb base to hand. With crochet hook, attach yarn or thread at thumb side of mitten on beginning edge, ch 50, slip st to other mitten at corresponding thumb edge. Fasten off. Weave in all yarn ends.

wee tiny sock swap (sending)...

2011-09-24T16:03:00.000-07:00

This is what am mailing out to my Wee Tiny Sock Swap partner. Our theme is "For the Birds". I knit the bird sock and nest. It was only a $10 swap, so I got the items I thought she'd like. Loving the chicken creamer pitcher....too fun! Hope she likes it all!

Color Swap (to me)...

2011-09-23T14:47:00.000-07:00

Got my Color Swap package in the mail today! I think it's from Sonja? from Norway....couldn't read the writing and no card inside, oops.

She made my day by making me a Rebecca Danger MONSTER!!! I adore this! Along with the monster, she included 6 skeins of yarn, Hello Kitty candy (we joked and said it looked like 'condoms' just how they are packaged), 2 tealights, some red ribbon, a nummy candy bar (Carson & I shared it), several patterns (thank you), cute Hello Kitty buttons, cute polka dot mini cupcake liners and some sweet smelling soap.

Thanks to my Swap Partner!!! Love it!

Color Swap September...

2011-09-20T05:45:00.000-07:00

This is what I sent my swap partner, Sharon (who lives in the UK)
aka: mamma on Ravelry.
...(she loved it all):

Her colors were Red and Aqua. I sent her Stash Tea, a mini journal, gum she likes, 2 lipgloss pots, a funky bird pen, 2 Fat Quarters (Fabric) a red sharpie, crafty mints, Knit Picks-2 skeins of soc yarn, Knit Picks Cable Needles and.....

...I made this swirly scarf and bought the needle traveler on Etsy...

...I made her some button flowers too...

...Ruby's loot...

...Joe's loot...

========================

Now, just waiting to see when my package arrives and what my secret partner sent me.

what's on my needles...

2011-09-20T05:40:00.000-07:00

“ I will continue to freak out my children by knitting in public. It's good for them.”
― Stephanie Pearl-McPhee, At Knit's End: Meditations for Women Who Knit Too Much

Susie's Reading Mitts by Janelle Masters

gag swap...

2011-09-14T09:33:00.000-07:00

I knit the Tardis Dishcloth (from Dr. Who) for my swap partner. (Vickie B. helped me finish it....whew!) It still needs to be blocked to show a flat design. This is a 'gag swap', so our goodies are funny items and since my partner loves Dr. Who I decided to turn the gift box into the Tardis as well...and added some fun gag gifts.

yarn along 9/14...

2011-09-14T09:18:00.000-07:00

Yarn Along

Knitting: Wee Tiny Sock with a 'Bird' Theme for the Wee Tiny Sock Swap on Ravelry.

Reading: The Help by Kathryn Stockett

Still have to add the wings and I was even thinking of adding wire feet to this birdie sock. Once it's done, it'll be time to add some goodies and mail it to my swap partner.

As for the book...I haven't seen the movie just yet. Hoping to read through the book all the way through, then go see it on the big screen.

easy pattern...

2011-09-13T16:50:00.000-07:00

Flirty Ruffle Scarf

Lion Brand® Wool-Ease® Thick & Quick®

MATERIALS:

640-149 Wool-Ease Thick & Quick Yarn: Charcoal
Lion Brand Crochet Hook - Size P-15
Large-Eye Blunt Needles (Set of 6)

GAUGE:

8 double crochet = about 4 in. (10 cm). 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.

NOTES:

1. Turning chains do not count as stitches.

2. If your stitch count differs slightly from pattern, your Scarf will still ruffle.

SCARF

Ch 72.

Row 1: Double crochet in 4th chain from hook, *double crochet in next chain, 2 double crochet in next chain; repeat from * across - 103 double crochet at the end of this row.
Row 2: Chain 3, turn, double crochet in first double crochet, *double crochet in each of next 2 stitches, 2 double crochet in next stitch; repeat from * across.
Row 3: Chain 3, turn, double crochet in first double crochet, *double crochet in each of next 3 stitches, 2 double crochet in next stitch; repeat from * across.
Row 4: Chain 3, turn, double crochet in first double crochet, *double crochet in each of next 4 stitches, 2 double crochet in next stitch; repeat from * across.

Fasten off.

FINISHING- Weave in ends.

peek-a-sheep...

2011-09-13T16:17:00.000-07:00

(photo belongs to cutedesigns on Flickr)

cute yarn basket...

2011-09-13T16:14:00.000-07:00

Martha has instructions on her site here:

Martha Stewart Living

September Wee Tiny Sock Swap...

2011-09-06T06:09:00.000-07:00

on Ravelry....

Theme: 'For the Birds'

Pattern: Wee Tiny Socks

Knit Hearts...

2011-08-10T13:12:00.000-07:00

This is a free and easy pattern for you to make and share from Anna at mochimochiland.com.

Please check out the Mochimochi Land shop for more patterns that you'll love!

and....

Anna Hrachovec's New Book is finally out!!!!!

photos from Anna

http://mochimochiland.com/2011/06/hey-thats-my-book/

ordering mine from Amazon

yarn along 8/10...

2011-08-10T11:48:00.000-07:00

Yarn Along

Knitting: Bainbridge Scarf (click on name for link)

Reading: some 'Yarn Harlot' books

(I borrowed from a friend, that I need to return)

I decided to try this simple scarf pattern, because I really love the whole concept and simplicity of it. I realized last night that I made a mistake and now have to frog a bit back to correct it....or....I could just leave it and call it my trial and wear it myself and start on scarf #2, right?

Love reading 'Yarn Harlot' (Stephanie pearl-McPhee. Her humor alone is amaing, but added with yarn talk, it's something every knitter should read. She just makes me relax and feel pretty 'normal'.

I missed last week's Yarn Along...hoping to keep up weekly from now on though.

Enjoy knitting and reading!

-----------------------------------------------------------

yarn along 8/3...

2011-08-03T10:47:00.000-07:00

YARN ALONG

Knitting: Waiting Room Scarf.

Reading: Knitting Rules by Stephanie Pearl-McPhee

(borrowed from Vickie)
--------------------------------------

yarn along (7/20)

2011-07-20T04:45:00.000-07:00

~Yarning along with Ginny, sharing a current knit and current read~

Reading Debbie McComber: Summer on Blossom Street.

Knitting with the leftover Rozetti Marina Yarn...making Lulu's Fru Fru

yarn along (7/13)

2011-07-13T15:18:00.000-07:00

....with Ginny and Friends

reading: At Knit's End- by Stephanie Pearl-McPhee

knitting: a simple shawl using Mohair and size 15 straights....seriously!
I love this book...actually a fun filled book of meditations (comic relief) for Knitters. I have gone through it once already and am reading each page once again as I work on this easy mohair shawl....because, really... it's a basic enough pattern...knit, knit, knit....and knit until I'm done!

Rozetti Marina One-Skein Scarf...

2011-07-13T11:29:00.000-07:00

I bought the blue/green colorway (Aquarius) from The Yarn Club...

Used this pattern....

http://www.universalyarn.com/patterns/558.pdf

...and made this fun scarf!

Juanita's yarn...

2011-07-13T11:12:00.000-07:00

This is the hand dyed/hand spun yarn Juanita gave me the other night. Her hubs actually dyed this yarn....so I think I'll call it 'McCants' (thier last name). Love the greens!!!!!! Thanks Juanita and Dale!

dishcloth in progress...

2011-07-11T06:02:00.000-07:00

Boxy Dishcloth

~Leah Michelle Designs~

See this Pattern.....

Yarn

Bernat Handicrafter Cotton (100% cotton).

1 skein. Shown in #085 (jute) and #089 (banana yellow).

Needles

One set of US 7 (4.5 mm).

Gauge

4 stitches = 1 inch in garter stitch.

Finished Size

10 inches wide x 11 inches long, beforewashing.
The dishcloth will shrink in the wash, especially in the length.

Notions

Yarn needle

----------------------------------------------------------

Knitting Instructions:

Cast on 46 stitches.

Waffle Stitch Pattern:

Sl1 (k2, p1) repeat to end.

Sl1 (p2, k1) repeat until 3 stitches remain, p3.

Sl1 (k2, p1) repeat to end.

Sl1, knit until 1 stitch remains, p1.

Repeat these 4 rows 15 times.

Repeat these 4 rows one more time, with this

change:

Sl1 (k2, p1) repeat to end.

Sl1 (p2, k1) repeat until 3 stitches remain, p3.

Sl1 (k2, p1) repeat to end.

Cast off.

baby hats for Remie...

2011-07-02T09:22:00.000-07:00

sweet berry baby hat (I knit)

pink flower hat (I crocheted)

ear flap hat (I crocheted)

Pug Bandanas...

2011-06-30T17:02:00.000-07:00

I crocheted these in one hour the other day. Simple and easy to make. I think they turned out uber cute on my little pug babies. Yuka likes hers, but Yoda wanted to chew on his instead of wear it.

Ben & Jerry's Sweater...

2011-06-29T06:34:00.000-07:00

So....you have your B&J's ready to devour, right? And you really need something to keep your hands from freezing as you hold said container, right? Try making one of these...

See Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Sweater and 1000's of others - or share your own on Cut Out + Keep

cuteness....

2010-12-12T15:41:00.000-08:00

Mochimochi Snowmen by Anna Hrachovec

mini hat ornament knitting...

2010-11-11T21:00:00.000-08:00

Here's what I knit today:

These are uber cute and easy for me to knit, so I plan to make some for the Churchland Fall Festival for the 20th...and some for our Christmas Tree and for extra gifties.

'tis the season to knit...

2010-11-11T09:00:00.000-08:00

Miniature Hats Christmas Ornaments

From Peggy Pignato

Materials
Worsted weight yarn
Size 6 US (4 mm) DPN needles
Basic Hat
If desired, knit the ribbing and pom-pom in a contrasting color
and the rest of the hat use stripes every other row.
CO 28 sts.
Work in K1, P1 ribbing 8 rows.
Change to St st and work 14 rows, alternating colors
(Stockinette –K1Row/P1Row ) Continue in this manner.
Dec as follows:
Row 1: K2tog across - 14 sts
Rows 2 and 4: Knit if knitting in the round, purl if knitting back and forth
Row 3: Rep Row 1 - 7 sts
Row 5: (K2tog) 3 times, end k1 - 4 sts
Cut yarn and thread through 4 sts. Pull tightly to close top of hat.
Sew seam if knitting back and forth. Fold ribbing up.
Add 1" pom-pom, a small tassel, or a jingle bell.

chemo hat is finished!

2010-10-28T10:52:00.001-07:00

My KNIT-A-VERSARY!!!!

2010-10-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow, Oct. 29th, marks my 2 Year KNIT-A-VERSARY being a member of Yarn for Breakfast MeetUp Group....and actually knitting for 1 year.

Next month is my 2 year Ravelry-Versary!!!!

Now...back to knitting this hat!!!

The Dye Lab...

2010-09-11T14:21:00.000-07:00

Alll the 'pretty babies' in a row...

2010-09-11T12:26:00.000-07:00

************************
1. Lavender Faires-SOLD
2. Nautical Star-SOLD
3. Celestial Sun- SOLD
4. First Ink-SOLD
5. Tramp Stamp- going on Etsy
6. I heart Mom- going on Etsy
7. Hibiscus Flower- going on Etsy
8. Celtic Green- SOLD

see my Etsy site: YARN TATTOO
**********************

'Celtic Green' ....

2010-09-10T07:33:00.000-07:00

dyeing yarn for Yarn Tattoo...

2010-09-10T04:46:00.000-07:00

I started yesterday with the first 2 skeins: (Green) 'Celtic Green' and (Lavender) 'Lavender Fairies'. Today I will dye 6 more skeins:

- (Red) I heart Mom, (Pink) Hibiscus Flower, (Dark Blue) Nautical Star, (Orange) Koi Fish, (Turquoise) Tramp Stamp and (Yellow Gold) Celestial Sun.

Yes...they are named after Tattoos....the name of my shop is 'Yarn Tattoo', so I figured it was only appropriate. I will take photos to share soon.

Printing labels right now. Still need to start a website. Going to place a large yarn order as soon as my tax ID# comes in. MOre dyes to order as well. Busy, Busy, Busy...and I like it, like it, like it!

---------------------------------

This is what I sent my swap person....

2010-09-07T19:03:00.000-07:00

My swap person hasn't posted the photos of what I sent her to our Rav Group, so I'm doing it.

1. "Soft Kitty, Warm Kitty, Little Ball of Fur..."
2. Spock- 'nuf said
3. Cascade 220- 2 skeins all wound and ready to make something nerdy.
4. "I have a board. Want to see my board?" (and some big bang rub ons too).
5. Spidey Pez, Nerds (of course) and she loves Junior Mints, so I had to add those too.
6. "She calls me Moon Pie, 'cause I'm nummy nummy and she could just eat me up."
7. Everyone needs a Super hero lunch pail, right?
8. "I like Monkeys." and a Scientist's measure cup....micro sized.
9. Sheldon's journal....micro sized as well.
10. Raj can't talk to women unless he's had a drink....grasshopper, perhaps?

=================================================================

The Big Bang Theory Swap arrived....

2010-09-07T13:25:00.000-07:00

My swap partner, Hilary (aka; 'antara' on Ravelry) sent me some fun geek stuff:

1. D&D Game- my boys are already playing it. (I'll have to teach them, as I played several years back)
2. Star Wars playing cards (each one is from a poster)- James took those over.
3. A Hello Kitty keychain- all mine!
4. A pretty Princess Crown Stitch Marker- with my birthstone- how cool!
5. A sweet Aqua Blue Blingy Pen....love it!
6. Three amazing smelling bags of yummy teas....can not wait to try these!
7. Two skeins of Cascade yarns- red and teal. I will think of something fun to knit with those.

Thanks Hil! That sure was fun!

====================

Color Swap Arrived Today!!!

2010-09-02T19:10:00.000-07:00

My WONDERFUL swap partner Theresa (aka: Ukelady) sent me the BEST box of PINK stuff! She went way over board and spoiled me rotten....and I want to thank her with my heart! Smooches! She not only hand made me a project bag (felted and sewn, lined and adorable with the cupcake theme...(I love, love, LOVE cupcakes!)...but she also made 3 other wicked awesome knit bags to go with it and I will use them all! They are the coolest design too. She also made me cupcake stitch markers and matching bead markers- all pink...sweet! How does she do it all?

Now...I'm not finished. I got a cupcake rubber stamp, a cutie patootie mini cupcake (goes with another matching one I already have...love it). She gave me a Vera B looking pink paisley notepad...adorable. I also got an M&M notepad, TEXAS postcards, magnet and coaster...fun!!! She continued to spoil me with the Kokeshi Doll pattern-YES!!! I will make these now! And....oh yes, there's more.....She sent pink, blue and a pink striped cotton yarn- I am a Cotton Freak! Yummy colors. She also sent me not one, but two different cupcake items- tulip cups in pink and cupcake wrappers- love them both and will surely use these next several cupcake bakings! I got a Sweet Needle Felt book (was on my amazon wish list)- I was thrilled and in awe! And (yes even more)....I got a package of 12 Felting Wool Artist's Palette #1 (woohoo!)...and last but not least....Hello Kitty Candy! ( a yummy looking marshmallow pop and candy dispenser...I will eat and use that dispenser for sure and probably have to fight my 9 yr old daughter over...hehehe. I might give her a piece of candy, but that's it!)- I Heart HK! OH T....you outdid yourself!

here's the photos of what she spoiled me with.....

This last photo is the whole kit-n-kaboodle together....amazing, eh?

Theresa....you rock, woman!!!! I LOVE everything!!!!!

==============================================

still playing with my Etsy banner....

2010-08-31T14:09:00.000-07:00

see the latest one:

very special scarf...

2010-08-20T20:25:00.000-07:00

Easy Mistake Scarf

from: the purl bee

Materials

■12 ply cashmere- you will need 300 yards total to complete the scarf.

■US size 11 needles (or size required to get gauge)

Gauge: 4.5 stitches per inch in rib pattern, slightly stretched

Finished Measurements: 48-inches long by approximately 8-inches wide

Pattern Note: Mistake rib is a multiple of 4+3

The Pattern

Cast on 39 stitches.

K2, p2, repeat to last 3 stitches, k2, p1.

Repeat this row. That's it!

Sew in ends, wash gently by hand, block and let air dry.

============================

mechanbot...

2010-08-18T07:41:00.001-07:00

See Mechanobot and 1000's of others - or share your own on Cut Out + Keep

soft kitty....

2010-08-17T17:43:00.000-07:00

made this today....

Seed Stitch Scarf...

2010-08-17T07:43:00.000-07:00

photos and pattern from: Twitchy on Ravelry:

details.....
Finished measurements: 70" / 180cm long x 7" / 36cm wide
Yarn: Any Aran weight yarn. I've used Jo Sharp's Aran Cotton. 5 x 50gm balls.
Needles and Notions: 5.5mm circular needles
Tapestry needle
Gauge: Not important in this pattern.

start.......
Cast on 201 stitches. Join the round.
Round 1: *knit 1, purl 1*, repeat to end of round.
Round 2: *purl 1, knit 1*, repeat to end of round.

These two rounds create your seed stitch pattern. Continue in seed stitch for 47 rounds. Bind off. (I used Elizabeth Zimmermans sewn cast off).

Weave in ends. Beautiful simplicty. Wrap your neck in cotton, and enjoy!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

gifts to make...

2010-08-10T05:36:00.000-07:00

My Aunts asked me to make them some extra large dishcloths...found this pattern:

Extra Large Spa Cloth

Materials:
-G hook
-1 ball cotton yarn

Abbreviations:
ch=chain
dc=double crochet
sc=single crochet
flo=front loop only
blo=back loop only

Gage:
11 dcs X 4 rows = 2 1/2 inches (in other words, don't crochet it too loosely)

Directions:
Ch 43
ROW 1: dc in third ch from hook and in the remaining chains (41) ch3 turn
ROWS 2-17: dc in first dc, ( *dc in blo of next three dcs, dc in flo of next three dcs) *repeat until one stitch remains, dc in last dc ch3 turn
After round 17, ch 1 and turn and sc around. make 3 scs in each corner and continue around until you have sc around entire square.
Join with a slip stitch finish off and weave in ends.

Copyright 2010 by Jennifer Kaye of Jenster76designs. You may make items from this pattern for personal use and to sell (a link to this pattern would be appreciated in your online listings), just don't copy or sell my pattern as your own.
=============================

A Swiffer Cover...

2010-08-06T13:58:00.000-07:00

also known as the Biffer Shrug (photo and pattern from Gherkin’s Bucket)

I just made one of these...can't wait to use it!!!

Materials

Size H (US 8) crochet hook

1 3/4 oz worsted weight kitchen cotton (I used Sugar n Cream)

Abbreviations

bpdc - back post double crochet

ch - chain

dc - double crochet

fpdc - front post double crochet

hdc - half double crochet

hdc dec - half double crochet decrease

rem - remaining

sl st - slip stitch

Pattern

ch 18

Row 1 - hdc in 3rd ch from hook, hdc in each rem ch across, turn

Rows 2-7 - ch 2, hdc in each hdc across, turn (16 hdc)

Row 8 - ch 2, 2 dc in first hdc, 1 dc in each hdc across until last hdc, 2 dc in last hdc, turn (18 dc)

Rows 9-30 - ch 2, dc in first dc, alternate fpdc and bpdc across until last dc, 1 dc in last dc, turn

Row 31 - ch 2, hdc dec over first two dc, hdc across until last 2 dc, hdc dec over last 2 dc, turn (16

hdc)

copyright Krysten L. & Gherkin’s Bucket 2007. Don't steal my stuff y'all. It's for personal use only, to bring joy to others. Give credit where credit is due. Selling the finished product for non-profit charity uses is OK
-----------------

Rainy Day Socks...

2010-08-05T20:12:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite sock pattern and it's FREE!

Rainy Day by Yuliya Sullivan

Dk weight socks with a simple lace pattern, heel flap/gusset, wedge toes, and picot edge. Perfect for curling up inside to watch the rain.

Sizes:
8 inches (20 cm) around leg and foot. Will fit an average woman's foot.

Yarn:
Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino (55% Merino Wool, 33% Microfiber, 12% Cashmere; 137 yd [125 m] / 50 g): color 340202, 2 balls.

Needles:
Size US #3 (3.25 mm) needles: 2 24-inch circulars. Adjust needle size as necessary to obtain gauge.

Gauge:
24 st = 4 inches (10cm) in stockinette st, knit in the round.
32 st = 4 inches (10cm) in Rainy Day lace pattern, knit in the round (measured relaxed).

Notions:
Tapestry needle; stitch markers; a small amount of smooth waste yarn for crochet cast-on and a crochet hook appropriate for the yarn; measuring tape; small scissors
=========================================

Rainy Day lace pattern

Rnd 1: *k1, p1, k2, p1, k1*

Rnd 2: *k1, p1, yo, ssk, p1, k1*

Rnd 3: Repeat row 1

Rnd 4: *k1, p1, k2tog, yo, p1, k1*

Picot Edge

Using waste yarn and crochet hook, crochet a chain of at least 52 st.

Starting at the cast-off edge of the chain and using main yarn, pick up 48 stitches through the backs of crochet loops.

Arrange half of the stitches on one end of the needle and the other half on the other end by pulling out the needle cord between the 24th and 25th stitches.

Join for working in the round being careful not to twist.

Knit 5 rows

Picot row: *k2tog, yo*

Knit 5 rows

Attach picot hem: *Pick up one live stitch from crochet cast on. Move the stitch to the left needle and knit it together with the following stitch.*

Leg

Knit rnds 1-4 of Rainy Day Lace pattern for a total of 12 reps (48 rnds total). The leg will measure approx 7.5" from the top of the picot edge. Knit fewer repeats for a shorter cuff or more for a longer cuff (though you will need more yarn for a longer cuff).

Heel

The heel is worked on the first 24 stitches only. The other 24 stitches are instep stitches and are not worked in this section.

Heel Flap

Row 1 (RS): Sl1, k23. turn work

Row 2 (WS): Sl1, p23. turn work

Repeat rows 1 and 2 eight more times, for a total of 18 rows worked. Repeat row 1 once more.

Turn Heel

Row 1 (WS): P15, p2tog, p1, turn.

Row 2 (RS): Sl1, k7, k2tog, k1, turn.

Row 3: Sl1, p8, p2tog, p1, turn.

Row 4: Sl1, k9, k2tog, k1, turn.

Row 5: Sl1, p10, p2tog, p1, turn.

Row 6: Sl1, k11, k2tog, k1, turn.

Row 7: Sl1, p12, p2tog, p1, turn.

Row 8: Sl1, k13, k2tog, k1, turn.

16 stitches remain on needle.

Gusset and Foot

Pick up 10 stitches from the side of the heel flap (one sitch per slipped stitch on the edge plus one extra from the corner near the instep stitches).

Place first marker. Continue in Rainy Day Lace pattern across instep stitches.

Place second marker.

Pick up 10 stitches from the side of the heel flap (one sitch per slipped stitch on the edge plus one extra from the corner near the instep stitches).

Knit 8 stitches. Rearrange the stitches on the needles to have 30 stitches on each needle: each needle will have 8 heel stitches, 10 picked up stitches, one marker, and 12 instep stitches; 60 sts total on needles.

Setup Rnd: k8, k10tbl, continue lace pattern across instep stitches, k10tbl, k8

Rnd 1: Knit to the last 3 stitches before first marker, k2tog, k1. Continue in Rainy Day Lace pattern across instep stitches (until 2nd marker). k1, ssk, knit to end of rnd.

Rnd 2: Knit to first marker, continue in Rainy Day Lace pattern across instep stitches (until 2nd marker), knit to end of round.

Repeat rnds 1 and 2 five more times. 48 stitches remain (24 stitches per needle).

Repeat rnd 2 until the work measures 2 inches shorter than desired length.

Toe

Rnd 1: Knit

Rnd 2: Knit to 3 sts of first marker, k2tog, k2, ssk, knit to 2 sts of second marker, k2tog, k2, ssk, knit to end of row.

Repeat rnds 1 and 2 six more times; 20 sts rem (10 on each needle).
Knit 5 stitches. Rearrange sts so that there are 10 sts on each needle again. The sole stitches are on one needle and the instep stitches are on the other needle.

Optional: Transfer stitches to 2 small dpns or stitch holders. Pass 2nd stitch on front needle over first stitch. Repeat for back needle. Pass 2nd to last stitch on front needle over last stitch. Repeat for back needle. This helps create a neater toe when grafting.

Cut yarn, leaving a 12" tail. Graft remaining stitches using Kitchener stitch.

Finishing

Weave in ends with tapestry needle. Block, if desired.

===============================

About the Designer: Yuliya Sullivan

Yuliya is a recovering sock knitting addict who teaches sock classes at Compatto Yarn Salon. Her favorite projects are done on tiny needles with plant-based yarns.
Pattern and images © 2007 Yuliya Sullivan. Contact Yuliya.

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Yoda Monstie.....

2010-08-02T05:55:00.000-07:00

Made this Yoda Monstie for James....

monsties....

2010-08-01T07:27:00.000-07:00

Look what I made last night!

The pattern is from here: MONSTIES!

How to Crochet a Button - CraftStylish

2010-07-14T10:08:00.000-07:00

How to Crochet a Button - CraftStylish

Color Swap arrived...

2010-07-06T17:36:00.000-07:00

Minus the 2 Cadbury chocolate bars... They arrived melted,

so I stuck them in the fridge and then the kids and I enjoyed them!

Alpacas...

2010-07-02T19:08:00.000-07:00

Glenn and I went to Cornerstone Farm Alpacas today. Chris Wingard is sooooo wonderful. We talked about the Fiber Arts Day coming up this November 6th and what we are going to teach there. Chatted, felt the alpaca fibers and then went out to see the 60 alpacas on her farm. I took a few photos (not the best), but I was having too much fun seeing these wonderful animals interact with all of us. The farm is AMAZING! Chris is such a wonderful woman and her family is way too cute. She has an awesome Farm House and is so fun to talk with.

I am looking forward to this Fiber Arts Day....enjoy some of the photos in the meantime.

Lucky Skull Scissors...

2010-07-01T10:50:00.000-07:00

By Fiskars. Got them at Tuesday Morning for $6.99....such a deal!

Yarn School...

2010-06-28T20:37:00.000-07:00

I want to go to Yarn School! 'Cupcake' (aka: The Thrifty Knitter) owns a ranch in Kansas. Yarn School is where fiber folks learn to dye yarn, card it, spin it! The Fall classes are full. Maybe I'll be ready for the one after that, eh? Sounds like something I can do and see if friends want to join me too.

Read an article about it here: Dye, Card and Spin and see photos here: Yarn School Spring 2010- Flickr

vegan swap...

2010-06-24T10:40:00.000-07:00

WOOHOO!!!....my package arrived in the mail today. Here's what my swap partner sent:

1. Debbie Bliss Cotton Yarn- 2 skeins
2. Drawstring Bag from World Market
3. KnitPicks Stitch markers
4. 3 white and 1 olive skeins of TShirt Yarns w/ drawstring bag instructions
5. Little Lamb Photo Frame
6. Pocket Token
7. Handmade Tags
8. 3 set- bag, notepad, notebook from Michael's
9. Hello Kitty Biscuits, Lipgloss, Pencils and stickers
10. The Vegan Cupcakes Recipe Book -I REALLY LOVE CUPCAKES!
11. Japanese hanging Fish...on the cookbook- (can you see it? Soooooo cute!)
Thanks to Wanda for a fabulous swap package!!!!

homemade sushi....

2010-06-22T12:37:00.000-07:00

i made this a few hours ago. simple. easy. fun.

new yarn arrived in the mail....

2010-06-16T15:02:00.000-07:00

Claudia Hand painted Fingering Yarn in 'Turquoise Jeans'

yarn bombing...

2010-05-28T19:22:00.000-07:00

Have you ever seen these before? It's call 'yarn bombing'. People dress statues in yarn creations everywhere. Love this!

working on these...

2010-05-25T09:13:00.000-07:00

so....I made a small booklet to hold the Sock Yarn Square Pattern, since it's so small and simple. Thus far, I have only 3 squares made...going to keep working on many more to create the blanket.....or a scarf, if I get too lazy to knit that many squares!

yarn bowl in use...

2010-05-23T18:44:00.000-07:00

i heart this...

2010-05-23T08:06:00.001-07:00

1. Cupcakes, 2. Mstr Bedroom March 2006, 3. what?, 4. Berries Cheese-Cake, 5. LEISURE SUIT- Hand Painted Superwash Sock Yarn, 6. topped with a pastillage star, 7. red and aqua retro doll quilt, 8. Details, 9. Peanut Butter Filled Chocolate Cupcakes with Chocolate Ganache, 10. ardeur handspun, 11. red n aqua, 12. My favorite colors for Christmas, 13. Chocqua Socks: one toe done [Mar 19, 08], 14. red and aqua, 15. Buttons, 16. kawaii kicks

some things i recently made...

2010-05-22T20:07:00.000-07:00

Small Scarf...

Project Bag for Color Swap on Ravelry...

Gekko Bookmark for Geraldine...

beautiful yarn cake and yarn bowl...

2010-05-22T20:05:00.001-07:00

I bought the skein of Fiber Optics yarn (wound it into a nice yarn cake) and bought the yarn bowl both at Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival...

scale...

2010-05-22T12:48:00.001-07:00

...bought this one at Target for $29.99. I'll use it to weigh yarn for swaps, etc...
(works like a charm so far!)

scarf ace...

2010-05-22T11:04:00.000-07:00