Late February
I posted pictures of this finished quilt on Instagram, but thought I'd better add them here as well. I bought this as a kit back in August at the Common Threads Anniversary Sew In. It's called Knotting Hill and it was tons of fun to put together. Peg does such a good job with fabric selection. If it were left up to me I'd never have chosen these colors and pattern. I am especially in love with the purple binding. I wish I had access to a long arm machine, because my little machine is just not the best quilter. I decided to use a wavy stitch to hide my poor effort. I really do like how it turned out. I'm guessing that after a washing I'll like it even more.
February 10th
I finally finished spinning this beautiful batt of fiber that I got back in the fall. I've been saving it because it was just too pretty to look at and I knew that I wanted to try and spin it super thin so that I could use it to knit the shawl in the last pictures. I don't usually enjoy spinning gradients, which just means keeping all the colors together, but I really like the look of this shawl and thought the yarn would be perfect. I probably don't have enough to make it as big as the picture shows, but since I'll wear it more like a scarf anyway I'm hoping it will work. The fiber was from Luna Bud Fibers, but I have no idea what the color is. I must have misplaced the tag. Oops.
January 9th
New years spinning and knitting are off to a good start. I finished spinning most of the gray fleece that I got from Jacki back in August. I have about 3 ounces of the fluff left, but I'm going consider that back-up in case I run short when I finally choose a project to knit with it. I tried making "chunky" yarn with the brown and teal fiber. It didn't turn out quite and thick as I was hoping, but it's much thicker than my usual. I think I'm going to knit a cowl out of it. I finished my first sock of the year and have started on it's mate. I think I enjoy knitting socks most of all. Someday I will show you a picture of my sock drawer. I counted and I now have 31 pairs of hand knit socks. One for each day of the month. Crazy.
October 24th
Camp Loopy 2014 Wrap UP
Every year I say I'm not going to do it again and every year I just can't help myself. This years projects were a lot of fun to knit and the bonus yarn gift I received for completing my projects on time was worth all the work. All of the details are on my Ravelry projects page, but I haven't quite figured out how to link that yet.
October 18th
I have not updated this section of my blog since January. Not sure why not, I guess I've just been putting finished projects in the main section. I'm not going to go back to January and add in everything, that would take too long and be way too boring for you all to look at. I'm just going to start with the past month or so and hopefully go on from there.
I've been a busy knitter. Trying to use up some of my handspun yarn. At one point I was working on 4 pairs of socks at once. That's even a little crazy for me. I finished the ones you see at the top and the other 3 are hibernating right now while I work on other things. I love how the the sweater turned out. It was the third project in my 2014 Camp Loopy challenge. It's kind of a lacy, light weight cardigan, so I probably won't be wearing it much until next spring. Currently I knitting a cowl and making plans to knit the last project in the Journey pattern book. You may remember that I set a goal for myself in January to knit all 5 projects in the book this year. I have one to go and it's a beautiful sweater. I need to order the yarn and get started soon.
January 17th
New Slippers
After I finished my Christmas socks, I cast on for a new pair of felted clog slippers. I decided to try a different pattern and honestly the jury is still out. the pattern is called "Easier Felted Clogs" and I would have to agree with that. They were fast and easy to knit. They felted pretty well too. I used a different yarn than a usually do. The problem I'm having is with the fit. The heal on these slippers does not come up as high as I'm used to. To me they are more like "scuffs". Is that even word? You know what I mean though. They are also wider, especially in the toe. They fit me very well so long as I have socks on too. Without socks they don't stay on. I might try washing them again just to see what happens. Stay tuned.
December 28th
I finished my Christmas socks right on time. I loved working with the yarn and the pattern was super fun. Remember, the yarn color was called "Zombody 's Kissing Santa Claus". Crazy name but great colors. The pattern is called Groovy Socks.
October 28th
I guess I felt the need for a little hand stitching. I bought this kit on a Christmas in July Quilt Shop Hop a little over a year ago. Obviously I didn't get it done in time for last Christmas. I found it a week or so ago in the back of one of my craft drawers and decided to get started on it. Who knows, it's only October. It might be finished it time for Christmas this year.
I think this little box made out of old rulers is perfect for holding my floss. Just trying to keep everything neat and tidy. As of today all that's left to stitch is Santa, the reindeer and the outside border. I think I'm going to make it.
October 20th
Well, needless to say I have not just been sitting around twiddling my thumbs since July 28th. I can't believe it's been so long since I've updated this section. I'm going to stick in a bunch of pictures of things I've finished since then. I'll probably forget a few but you will get the main idea. Next time I get around to it I'll show you what I'm currently working on.
July 28th
I'm sure you are getting tired of seeing socks and shawls, but that's what I've got for you. Socks and shawls are easy summer knitting and you know how I like easy. Here is what I've done since May starting with the most recently completed.
March 19th
Another Pair Of Socks
These are called Lacy Spring Socks and I have to say that I'm just kind of OK with them. I enjoyed the pattern and the yarn was lovely to knit with, but the colors just don't do much for me. I bought the yarn so that I could participate in a Knit Along with one of the Pod casts that I follow. The yarn was dyed especially for the Knitting Den and the deal was that you could knit anything you wanted to but you had to use this yarn. Truthfully, the colors are darker and brighter in this picture. In real life it's more of a soft pastel. Anyway, they are finished and I'm sure I will wear them and enjoy them. Who knows, they might even become my new favorites.
February 15th
All in all I think they turned out pretty well. Grace knits most of her socks this way and loves it. I'm not sure that I love it, but I've already started another pair so I guess you would have to say that I didn't not love it.
February 5th
Knitting away on my Hitchhiker shawl and loving it!
January 23rd
I totally forgot to show you my finished Gingerbread Man socks. I did not get them finished before Christmas as I'd hoped, but I love how they turned out just the same. There is always next year.
December 6th
I wish there was more to show you, but most of what I'm working on now are Christmas gifts. I don't know if the recipients read my blog or not, but just to be on the safe side... I can show you what is currently on my knitting needles, maybe gifts, maybe not, it's still too early to tell.
So far I've finished one of these owl coffee cup cozy's. I think it turned out pretty darn cute. I'm trying to use up bits and pieces of left over yarn and this project is fitting the bill.
In my Christmas knitting bag I have a new pair of socks starting to take shape. The yarn is from a fairly new mother/daughter Etsy shop called Never Enough Thyme and the color is "The Gingerbread Man"
November 9th
Finally finished Socks!
I started these socks way back in June. I've finished knitting 3 other pairs since then. For some reason these just didn't do much for me. I'm not sure if it was the color, or the thick stripes, or the denseness of the yarn. Who knows? The pattern is what one would refer to as a "plain vanilla" sock. It's my regular go to pattern that I've had for at least 10 years. Now that they are finished it's amazing how much I like them. They are super thick and squishy and a little longer than what I usually knit. Can't wait to wear them. Can't wait to start on a new pair.
October 19th
I finished my Multnomah Shawl and I have it wrapped around my neck as I type this. What a fast, fun and easy project. I made it out of Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock yarn in the Lakeview colorway.
It's mostly garter stitch which means it's a lot of knitting and just a tad of purling. I'm sure that's why I was able to get it done so quickly. Did I mention that I LOVE IT! Sorry, I'm keeping this one for myself.
September 29th
I finished the Simple Skyp socks last week. They really turned out great. The pattern was super easy to follow and they fit perfectly. I started a new pair of socks almost immediately because as you saw last week I have no shortage of sock yarn. It was hard to choose which skein to knit first, but I went with one that looked a little more fall like.
September 19th
February 10th
January 9th
October 24th
Camp Loopy 2014 Wrap UP
Every year I say I'm not going to do it again and every year I just can't help myself. This years projects were a lot of fun to knit and the bonus yarn gift I received for completing my projects on time was worth all the work. All of the details are on my Ravelry projects page, but I haven't quite figured out how to link that yet.
October 18th
I have not updated this section of my blog since January. Not sure why not, I guess I've just been putting finished projects in the main section. I'm not going to go back to January and add in everything, that would take too long and be way too boring for you all to look at. I'm just going to start with the past month or so and hopefully go on from there.
January 17th
New Slippers
December 28th
October 28th
October 20th
Well, needless to say I have not just been sitting around twiddling my thumbs since July 28th. I can't believe it's been so long since I've updated this section. I'm going to stick in a bunch of pictures of things I've finished since then. I'll probably forget a few but you will get the main idea. Next time I get around to it I'll show you what I'm currently working on.
July 28th
I'm sure you are getting tired of seeing socks and shawls, but that's what I've got for you. Socks and shawls are easy summer knitting and you know how I like easy. Here is what I've done since May starting with the most recently completed.
March 19th
Another Pair Of Socks
February 15th
Finally finished All I Want For Next Christmas Socks
I have to say that these socks were a pretty big undertaking for me. I decided to challenge myself and try several new (to me) techniques. These socks were knit toe up using the magic loop trick. They have an after thought heel and I used Jenny's surprisingly stretchy bind off on the cuff.
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| After thought heels |
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| Jenny's surprisingly stretchy bind off |
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| Finished after thought heel |
February 5th
Knitting away on my Hitchhiker shawl and loving it!
January 23rd
I totally forgot to show you my finished Gingerbread Man socks. I did not get them finished before Christmas as I'd hoped, but I love how they turned out just the same. There is always next year.
December 6th
I wish there was more to show you, but most of what I'm working on now are Christmas gifts. I don't know if the recipients read my blog or not, but just to be on the safe side... I can show you what is currently on my knitting needles, maybe gifts, maybe not, it's still too early to tell.
November 9th
Finally finished Socks!
October 19th
September 29th
I finished the Simple Skyp socks last week. They really turned out great. The pattern was super easy to follow and they fit perfectly. I started a new pair of socks almost immediately because as you saw last week I have no shortage of sock yarn. It was hard to choose which skein to knit first, but I went with one that looked a little more fall like.
September 19th
I love it when things work out just the way I planned.
I knit this cute little Wee Welcome Set for one of my best friends daughter who is expecting a baby girl in October.
Then I found these Onesies and pull on pants to match. How lucky was that?
Sorry about all the pictures, I just think it's too cute for words.
September 9th
Another finished quilt, and I just love the way it turned out.
I especially love the polka dot fabric on the back.
I had enough of it leftover so I decided to make a pillow case to match.
August 8th
My third and final 2012 Camp Loopy project is finished. I know I say this every time I finish something, but I really think that this one is my favorite.
It's called Andrea's Shawl and I found the pattern on Ravelry.
There is a pattern for matching fingerless mitts that I just might have to knit too. The yarn is Madlinetosh Tosh Sport in Jade and Luster and it was a dream to work with. At first I thought it was a little rough, but once the shawl was soaked and blocked the yarn softened up and now it is just amazing.
Sorry about all of the pictures, I just really want you to be able to see the lace detail and the picot edging.
I think I might like to knit another shawl from this pattern. I don't usually feel that way, but this one was a lot of fun.
July 25th
I am so behind in updating this section of my blog. I'm just going to show you pictures of finished projects and if you have any specific question just let me know.
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| Grace modeling my finished Garden Cardigan |
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| 2012 Wendy Knits Summer Solstice Mystery Shawl |
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| Love these socks! The pattern is called Holes in my Socks |
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| Another pair of Turkish Bed Socks |
June 3rd
Here is a little update on what I've finished lately and what I'm currently working on.
First the finished items:
May 11th
I absolutely love knitting outside. I try to do it as much as I can. Of course, the elements have to be just right. Not too hot. Not too cold. Not too buggy and mostly around this neighborhood, not too loud. Seriously, between the dogs barking (including my own) the birds chirping and all of the cars driving by sometimes it's difficult to find a little peace and quiet. Today was a very quiet day. A lot of knitting got done.
May 6th
This weekend I've been doing a little spinning and knitting. Are you just shocked? I need to get back to sewing. I've got a few projects already cut out and ready to go I just need to get to it. In the mean time, here are a few pictures of current projects.
This is my Cloudlover April 2012 fiber club fiber. It's called "Leprechaun", but to me it's spinning up more like fall leaves. I just had to join this club because I've heard such great things about the fiber prep and how beautiful it is. So far I have to agree. I signed up for a 3 month club option, so I'm looking forward to 2 more pretty packages.
May 2nd
April 27th
More yarn... I finished spinning and plying the fluff I showed you the other day. Here it is again, just in case you forgot what it looked like.
After spinning and plying it looks like this.
Before we left on our trip, I joined an April Knit Along through the KnittingDen Blog and Podcast. The idea is that you have a month to knit a designated project, post pictures of it and then you are eligible to win prizes. This months KAL (knit along) was called the "April Showers Cowl" and it looked like something that would keep me busy on two 9 hour plane rides. I'm happy to say that it did and it's finished!
I don't know why it looks gray in the first picture, must have been the lighting. It's really a nice soft blue.
Also finished and in use since we got home, a lovely red teapot cozy. I finally got around to making this cutie. It's knit out of some of my first homespun yarn so very "thick and thin" and not much good for anything else. I might have enough to make another one. I started it and finished it while Alan and I watched The Ides of March.
Don't you just love the little button detail? I just looked out the window and it has started to rain. I think I'll make a pot of tea and get back to spinning.
March 24th
So, I'm not so good at pacing myself after all. Yesterday I sat at the spinning wheel for about an hour and half and finished spinning all of the fluff I currently have. I just couldn't stop. Help me!
It turned out just the way I was hoping it would. Today I'll ply it and soak it to set the twist. Hopefully I'll have a finished picture of the yarn to show you tomorrow. I also finished my Peaks and Valley socks.
Not exactly what I was hoping for. I wanted them to be a little bit more airy, lacy for spring. Still, another pair off the needles. To get that "airy" look I was hoping for, my next pair of socks that I cast on last night is actually called "Holes in my Socks". I'm not kidding.
March 20th
March 13th
Are you ready for the BIG TA-DA? Well here it is....
So cute, don't you agree? It's called the Plain Baby Vest and I got the pattern for free off of Ravelry. It's by Pickles and only the size one is free. I think the other sizes are like less than $6.00. Not sure though.
The hat pattern was also free from Ravelry and it's called Aria's Hat.
March 11
SNEAK PEEK
Remember this fluff?
March 7th
Boy have I been busy. I finished up a couple of super cute bags. I'm calling them project bags because I intend to use them to hold knitting projects.
The first bag finished is just like the one I showed you a couple of weeks ago. mettle handles and adorable.
February 28th
Where to start? I have so many finished projects to show you and I really want to give each some special attention. I guess I'll start with the Farmer's Wife Sampler Quilt.
I started this project back in August as part of a Bloggers Quilt Along. I really loved the idea of working on a quilt with my Blogger friends. Sort of a block of the week deal. I enjoyed making most of the blocks. I tried to stick with blocks made up of mostly squares and those with the biggest pieces. I think the finished blocks were supposed to be 6 inches square. Mine ranged from 51/4 inches to almost 6 inches. I'm not sure why. I used the templates and was consistent with my 1/4 inch seam allowance. Who knows? Now that it's all together I'm going to quit worrying about it.
Putting it together was a longer process than I'd hoped for. All the sashing and corner stones really slowed me down. I like my seams to line up and with various sized blocks that just took a little extra time. All in all I love the way it turned out. The fabric was a joy to sew and the colors are soothing and peaceful. I still need to figure out how I'm going to quilt it. I'm thinking about tying it. I haven't done that in a while and for some reason this quilt top seems to be saying "keep it simple". Now that the top is pieced I'm not in a hurry to finish the whole thing. I may just think about it for a little while.
February 22nd
While I was in Iowa at the Common Threads Sew-In last month, I picked up a pattern and some fabric to make some really cute project bags to hold knitting. I finally got around to cutting out and sewing the first one last weekend and I couldn't be happier with how it turned out. I can't wait to make some more.
February 21st
Several years ago I took a Felted Clogs knitting class with my good friend Jacqueline at the Crazy Girl Yarn Shop in Coralville IA. Since that time I've made many clogs/slippers for myself and others. The first pair that I made for myself were blue, when they wore out I knit a green pair. I've been wearing the green ones pretty much daily for the past 3 years or so. I've decided that wood floors must be harder on felted clogs than carpet. My poor green slippers sprung a leak.
If I really felt like it, I could probably patch it up and make due. The hole is on the bottom after all. I looked
at it as an opportunity for new slippers. I decided to go with purple this time.
Here they are before felting, all loose and gigantic. I had to run them through the washer 5 times to get them to shrink up the way I wanted them.
February 19th
I've been attending a conference most of the week and visiting with family, so not a lot of crafting got done. I did manage to finish spinning and plying my big red ball of fluff.
It turned in to beautiful yarn that I have absolutely no idea what I'm going to do with. I'm sure an idea will come along.
I started spinning one of the bits of fluff that came in the mail. So far I'm loving it. It's fun to spin something with lots of color it it.
I started spinning one of the bits of fluff that came in the mail. So far I'm loving it. It's fun to spin something with lots of color it it.
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| 4 ozs. 64 ct. superwash merino lambswool from Enchanted Knoll Farm SEDONA |
February 14th
Farmer's Wife Sampler Lap Quilt progress has been slow going. I'm sure that I mentioned before, a long, long time ago that I was having trouble making all of my blocks the designated size. This does not bode well for putting it all together. I thought that I'd have a little more wiggle room with the added sashing around each block, but that just does not seem to be the case. At first I was just going to randomly put the rows together, and then I remembered that I don't do randon. Really, I don't unless I'm forced to.
So, I laid out all of the blocks and spent way too much time trying to get the colors just right. I looked at it for a couple of days, made a few changes and then thought I'd get the whole thing put together last weekend. NOT!!! I worked on it a couple of hours on Friday and then a few more on Sunday and I'm still not quite half way done. I really think that by now I should be a better judge of how long it takes to put a quilt together. I ran in to the same frustration with my Block of the Month quilt a couple of weeks ago. I guess I think I'm a faster sewer than I really am. Alan keeps reminding me that I should just be enjoying the process. I'm trying, there are just so many other quilts that I would also like to be enjoying the process of making. Here's how it looks so far.
February 6th
I had a pretty productive weekend. I love when I get to check things off of my "to do list". The main to-do that got done was adding the final borders on to my Block of the Month quilt. I finished the final block and put the whole thing together last weekend at the Common Threads Sew In, but just didn't have time to finish it up. I really love how it turned out. I love it so much that I don't think I'm going to try quilting it myself. I think I'll call in a expert.
I also got a bit of spinning done. Since I'm still learning I decided that I should practice spinning easy, inexpensive wool first. Good idea don't you think? I had gotten this giant bag of white fluff last summer to use on my drop spindle and decided I'd finish it up on the wheel. My first efforts were like I said before, very "home spun" thick and thin. But practice does seem to be the key. My biggest problem now is to try and keep from "over spinning" my yarn. It's an ongoing process. Here are some pictures of the "white fluff" process, from fluff to finished yarn.
January 22
January 13th
Amazing Grace's truly amazing sweater was super cute before she tried it on and even cuter once she did. It really fits perfectly and the pockets are my favorite part. She says that she under no circumstances will she make one for me. I guess I don't really blame her, but I want one too.
January 12th
Grace finally finished her Tunic/Dress. She's been working on it since July. I'm so proud of her that she stuck with it. The yarn is super thin sock yarn so she had to use pretty tiny little needles. She's blocking it right now, so as soon as it's dry I'll get a picture of her actually wearing it. It really turned out well. Way to go Grace!
January 8th
January 3rd
Here's what I'm currently working on.
January 1st
One of the first Blogs that I started reading several years ago is all about the goings on that take place on a sheep farm in Virginia. Juniper Moon Farm is the first Fiber CSA in the country. It works just like the regular farm CSA's, you pay into it to help keep the farm operating and you receive some of the bounty, in this case wool or yarn. I got hooked on the blog because the owner sets up a lamb cam so that you can actually watch the baby lambs being born. It's fascinating! Anyway, I ordered some wool from them for Grace and I for Christmas and I started spinning mine the very next day. This is the first project that I can say I spun the wool, and knit the garment all on my own. The whole thing has been very rewarding. I knew that this spinning thing was going to be a problem for me. I love it! Sorry some of the pictures are not the best. The new camera and I are not exactly friends yet.
December 19th
More/better pictures of my finished shawlette/scarf. I've worn it to all of our holiday parties. I think it's quite festive and warm.
December 11th
Here's my finished block of the month for November. Next week I pick up my last block. I can't believe that soon all 12 of them will be finished. I have to say that this has been a fun year long project. I'm still debating about whether or not to sign up for next years Block of the Month. I'm not so keen on the fabric color choices. I'm sure I'd enjoy making another quilt. I have one more month to decide.
December 9th
December 6th
I bought this really fun sock yarn a while back. Really, I bought it to send to Grace and then decided to buy another ball of it for me. That's when I know I really like something. Anyway, I hemmed and hawed about what to do with it. I didn't really want to start on another pair of socks just yet, so I decided to try another lacy shawlette. I know that I said I'd never do that again last summer, but for some odd reason that's what this yarn was telling me that it wanted to be. I got on the computer and found a great free pattern called Revontuli which means Northern Lights in Finnish and the rest is history. OK, the truth is that I had to restart it several (13) times, but once I figured it out everything went smoothly. I finished it last weekend, blocked it and now It's ready to be worn. I tried to take some pictures of it, but it's dark and there is absolutely NO sun shining. I'll take some better pictures and post them later, but for now...
November 29th
A while ago I saw this tutorial on another Blog that really caught my attention. I have been making "cute" pillow cases for a few years now, but by adding some edging I figured I could make them even cuter. The directions were very easy to follow and the end result made me super happy. Now I want to add some edging to all of our pillow cases.
November 26th
A few finished projects (finally) I started the sweater last January and the scarf around that same time. It's funny how once the weather warms up winter projects get put on the back burner. Well, it's winter again and I'm ready to wear sweaters and scarves again.
November 21st
I finished another pair of socks. These are for my Mom for Christmas. Just a little something to help keep her toes warm this winter. My Mom always has cold feet. She has been know to wear multiple pairs of socks along with her woolly slippers. These socks turned out very well. You are never quite sure when you buy sock yarn what the striping pattern will look like when your are finished. The yarn that I used is called Soles & More by Sensations. Its a washable, wool blend that I picked up at Jo-Ann's. The only problem that I have with the yarn is that you have to buy 2 skeins to make one pair of socks and I ended up with a lot of left-over yarn. Other than that I'd probably buy it again.
I think that I have finally mastered the Kitchener Stitch. That is the stitch used to graphed the toe of each sock.
November 18th
I'm so happy with the way these Christmas Stockings turned out. I decided after last Christmas that we were in need of some new, updated stockings to go with our new, updated house. Basically, the old ones just didn't match our new living room at all. Trust me, the decision to make new ones was not easy for me. My kids have used the same stockings their whole entire lives. That is tradition, and traditions mean a lot at this time of year. But, change is good too. It helps build character right? I found a stocking book called Nicky's Knitted Christmas Stockings by Nicky Epstein at the yarn shop last winter and just sort of tucked it away. Back in the spring I bought all of the yarn. I used Cascade 220 Superwash, the same yarn and colors that I used for my Granny Square Afghan. Then in July I started on the first stocking. I got about halfway done and then switched to something else. Who knew that time would slip away so fast. A couple of weeks ago I got serious again and now I can't figure out why this project took me so long to finish. Really easy pattern and the embellishments were just fun. This is the kind of crafting that I enjoy most.
I may try to make a couple more just to have on hand and to use up leftover yarn. There are at least 2 other patterns in the book that interest me, so why not.
November 13th
I got a little bit behind with some of my sewing projects this month. Don't worry though, progress is still being made. I plan to work on my Farmer's Wife quilt today. I need to cut out the borders and figure out the placement of all of the blocks. I also need to figure out which 2 block I'm not going to use, since I got a little over ambitious and made too many.....
I cut out and sewed my October block of the month square yesterday. It's called "Night Music". That is 10 blocks done with just 2 more to go. Have I told you how beautiful the finished quilt is? I can't wait.
This is how I store my blocks, in a 12X12 scrapbook storage box. I'm sure the quilting world makes a similar item, but I say "use what you have if it works".
October 30th
Finishing the left unfinished....
Remember this sweater that I started way back in January?
I hoped to have it finished sometime in April.
Well that didn't happen. Summer came and who needs a sweater then?
Now it's almost November. It's cold enough to wear a sweater. Time to get it done.
October 17th
Sometimes I am such a dweeb. I wasn't sure whether or not to share my stupidity with you all or not, but in the sense of keeping things real I figured you guys would laugh with me and not at me. So here goes....
Remember last week I told you that I only had 4 more Farmer's Wife Quilt blocks to make? Well I made these two. Not bad. I was actually pretty pleased with how they turned out.
Then came the problem of picking 2 more patterns and finding enough fabric to complete them. By then all I had left were tiny scraps, and really not the best color choices. I spent more time than I care to think about figuring out how to get 2 more blocks. I finally came up with these two.
October 14th
Sneak Peek
Here's a little sneak peek of what I'm currently knitting. Can you guess what all of this mess is going to be? Hopefully I'll have pictures of the finished project. soon.
October 11th
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| Week 20 # 61 and # 71 |
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| Week 21 # 80 and # 97 |
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| Week 22 # 104 Wild Geese and # 105 Wild Goose Chase |
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| Week 23 #56 Maple Leaf and #14 Butterfly at the Crossroads |
October 10th
October 4th
Farmer's Wife quilt blocks for week 19. A bit of a struggle for me this week, not because the patterns were all that difficult, but because I'm running out of fabric choices. I've used up all of my favorites, especially the dark browns, so it's harder to make good contrasts. I'm determined to make this work though without buying more material. I have about 10 more blocks to make. They probably won't make the favorites list, but I'll just scatter them here and there and call them "filler". The block on the left is called Gentleman's Fancy and the one on the right is Homeward Bound. Sorry about all of the long threads. I'm going to wait until I'm all finished to square up the blocks and trim them.
September 27th
Here are my Farmer's Wife quilt blocks for weeks 17 and 18. It feels so good to be caught up, but now I just want to go ahead and get them all finished. The system that works for me, is to sew two blocks, and then cut out the next two blocks so that they are ready to sew when I'm ready and I don't have to cut out first.
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| Week 17 |
These blocks are called End of Day and Evening Star. They are blocks 30 and 31 in the book. End of Day really went together a lot easier than I was expecting. I have one center point that does not match up and that is making me a little crazy. I might have to fix that if I can.
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| Week 18 |
These are called Friendship Block and Friendship Star. I'm calling the one on the left my new favorite.
September 25th
It poured rain yesterday, a perfect day to finish a quilt. Remember this quilt top that I completed back in July?
Well, since I don't have any trips back to Iowa planned for the near future, I decided to just go ahead and quilt it on my own sewing machine.
September 20th
Here's my September Block of the Month quilt block. I'm so excited about this quilt. At last weeks meeting they revealed the finished quilt. I tried taking a picture of it with my phone, but it didn't turn out so well. Next month I'll take my camera so that you all can see what all of these squares will look like put together. I can't wait!
September 18th
I DID IT! It's week 16 of the Farmer's Wife Quilt Along and I have 32 finished blocks. I thought I might never catch up to the rest of the pack, but last Friday I set my mind to sewing and got it done. I really do love almost all of the blocks. There are a few that gave me fits, but I'm not going to point them out. I have decided that I'm going to make enough blocks for the lap quilt size. the pattern says that I need 50 something blocks. I bought my backing and sashing fabric yesterday so I won't be changing my mind. The trick is going to be figuring out which 20 more blocks to make. All that's left are hard ones with teeny, tiny little pieces. Not my favorite.
September 12th
Finally finished this pair of socks.
I restarted them at least 3 times, and about halfway through almost gave up altogether.
I thought I liked this yarn when I first bought it, but after seeing how it was knitting up I changed my mind. I do that sometimes.... Anyway, I managed to keep going and now that they are finished I like them again. Funny how that happens.
I also got back on track with my Farmer's Wife quilt.
It is week 15 in the quilt along so I should have 30 blocks done by now. I'm up to 18, so I still have a ways to go to catch up. I have now completed all of the "easy" mainly just squares blocks so I'm going to have to figure out a way to make all of the mainly triangles blocks fit together better. OR, maybe I will just repeat some of the "easy" blocks... Probably not how it's supposed to go. This is one of my favorite blocks so far.
September 9th
August Block of the Month called Ballerina contains 57 pieces, the most pieces in one of these blocks to date. I think this is probably my new favorite. I know that I say that every month, but this one really turned out well and was fun to put together. Only four more mystery blocks left to go and then I can put the whole thing together. Can't wait! Here's a little closer look.
August 27th
Is this picture any better? I don't know. I wish I could take a picture of each letter, but that's not going to happen. The frame really makes it.
August 25th
Back from the framer's!
August 22nd
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| First 10 blocks |
Here are a couple of better pictures of my Farmer's Wife sampler quilt blocks. Remember how I mentioned that the other quilters working on this project were picking and choosing the blocks they were making but that I was just planning on going in order. Well forget that. Silly me (how many times do I say that?) I finally figured it out. I worked my tail off on block 11 called "Broken Dishes" and the stupid thing came out 1/2 in too small 5 1/2 inches instead of 6 inches. I think it's because there were 32 tiny little triangles and with the 1/4 inch seam allowance something was off. Now I get it. Make blocks with fewer pieces and more squares. That's my new plan. I'm still trying to catch up with the rest of the pack, but with my little set back it might take a little longer.
August 19th
Some of my Blogging friends (they don't actually know me, but I read their Blogs everyday, so it feels like I know them) of the quilting variety, started a quilt-a-long 12 weeks ago. The plan is to make 2 blocks a week from the book pictured above. As of this week they all have 24 finished block. I was a little late to jump on the wagon. As of today I have 8 finished blocks. The book is really wonderful. it contains all of these letters written by farm wives explaining why they would want their own daughters to marry farmers. The letters were submitted to a magazine back in the 1920's as part of a contest. There are quilt blocks to go along with each letter, and they range from super simple to Oh my gosh there are way too many pieces in that one. Most of my "blogging friends" seem to be picking and choosing which blocks they will make. That is just not the way I operate. I started with block 1 and will continue in order until I run out of fabric, or I just get tired of the whole thing. Each block is only 6 inches square, so once you have the pieces cut out they go together very fast. I'm hoping that I will catch up to everyone else sometime next week. I'm trying to sew 2 blocks a day, but other stuff keeps getting in the way.
this picture gives you an idea of what the blocks look like. I decided to use up some of my stash instead of going out and buying more fabric. I think a lot of people are using scraps, and that works well, because the pieces are so small. I just don't happen to have any scraps hanging around that are not Christmas fabric.
I'm using a Layer Cake stack that I bought on a quilt shop-hop a while back. I love the colors and the sweet words printed on some of the fabrics. The fabric is called Pure and it's by Sweetwater for Moda. It's mostly blue, brown and beige, which after all of the brightly colored quilts I've made recently is a pleasure to sew on.
I'm sorry this picture is so fuzzy, but it gives you a little idea of how my blocks are coming together. I'll be showing you more very soon. I hope....
August 8th
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| Eye Pillows~ Mine is the purple, Grace's is the pink |
I made these eye pillows for Grace and I a while back. We both felt funny using the ones provided in our yoga classes. You just never know who might have used it before you. You know what I mean. I found this free Amy Butler pattern and ordered some dried lavendar from a local lavendar farm. The pattern suggested using some dried beans, rice and lavendar for the filling and we are both very happy with the wieght, texture and smell of the bags. Super easy project.
July 26th
Block of the Month catch up. Because it's summer and because we have had things to do I got a little bit behind with my block of the month blocks. This past weekend I finished up the June and July blocks. Once they are cut out the blocks go together so easily. I wish I could hire someone to cut out for me. That is my least favorite part always. I suppose I should enjoy and appreciate the whole process. I'll start working on that.
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| June |
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| July |
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| All 7 blocks to date |
July 25th
Another finished quilt top! Time to plan a trip back to Iowa so that I can put it all together.
I started this "French Rose" quilt back in May and then had to put everything away so that David and my Dad could actually sleep in the guest room. I got it out last week and added on the inner and outer borders and now it's ready for the long arm machine.
July 8th
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| I'm up to the letter "K" |
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| Many,many, many more hexagons to go |
July 1st
Another new project arrived in the mail today. I'm so excited about this one. I can't wait to get started. One of my favorite Blogs to read is Alicia Paulson's Posie Gets Cozy. She's very creative and seems to enjoy the same kinds of crafty things that I do. I have purchased some of her other kits in the past and knew I needed to have this one as well. I rushed off to Jo Ann Fabrics to buy an embroidery hoop, because I don't have a clue where any of the 5 I already own are. Hiding in the basement is my best guess. I'm hoping to make good progress on the sampler over the 4th of July Weekend, so hopefully I'll have pictures to share with you soon.
June 26th
I'm trying something new. I know, you are completely shocked. I have ALWAYS wanted to learn how to spin wool. You know that some day I'm going to own some sheep and I'm going to need to know what to do with all of the wool that comes off of them. I've procrastinated learning this skill for a number of reasons, I think the biggest reason that I've waited so long is because I knew I'd love it and that would be that. I'd need to have a spinning wheel and I'd probably need to quit my "real" job so that I could spend all of my time spinning. Anyway, back to the point. Grace took a drop spindle spinning class while she was off at college last winter and boy was I ever jealous. I mean really jealous. Turns out that she's very good at it too. She agreed to teach me how to do it and so a couple of weeks ago we drove to Frankfort KY to a place called the Woolery that sells all things necessary for spinning. I got some wool and a spindle and the lessons began. It's all about "spinning energy" and "drafting". Don't ask me what they mean, I'm just a beginner, but just as I suspected, I love it. It is an amazing feeling to see this big pile of fluff turn into actual yarn. I have a long way to go. I'm trying to pace myself. It's difficult for me, but I think it helps me to appreciate the process more.
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| Mine is the white yarn and Grace's is grey |
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| Grace winding her yarn on the Knitty Knotty |
June 21st
My hexagons have gotten out of control. I've finished 28 flowers with 4 more to go and then it's on to the background white. I have no idea how many of those little guys I will need to make, but I'm guessing more than 100. In the mean time I found this cute little square storage box at Jo Ann Fabrics that seems to hold everything quite nicely. There's nothing better than a little organization in the midst of chaos.
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| The top box holds stuff |
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| The middle box holds squares waiting to become hexagons |
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| The bottom box holds finished flowers |
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| All stacked up are ready to go |
June 14th
Biting off way more than I can chew. Again.... What's new? I got it in my head that I "needed" to make a Grandmother's Garden quilt using 3/4 inch hexagons all by hand. Don't ask me why. I think I thought it would be a whole lot easier than it is. I was also thinking that I wouldn't have access to my sewing machine during the month of June and I would just be desperate to be quilting. Silly, silly me. This thing just might take the rest of my lifetime to finish. I told Grace that if I died before I finished it it was her responsibility to get it done. She gave me one of "those" looks. Here is what I have so far. It's really kind of fun, just sssslllllloooooowwwwwww.....
June 11th
Forgot to show you the May Block of the Mouth. I cut it out and sewed it last weekend while David was away visiting my Dad. We really need to get the basement finished so that I have a place to leave my sewing machine set up all the time. I don't do so well under pressure, so don't look too closely. I had a lot of trouble getting the points to match up. I ripped and sewed several times and finally just decided that it was good enough. Hopefully the June block will have fewer pieces.
June 7th
The Mystery Shawlettes are finished. What a fun project. I know Grace enjoyed it, because she has already started on a similar shawlette. Not me. I'm so glad mine is finished but honestly it was a lot more work then I had planned on. I mentioned below that I had to start over 7 times before I finally figured out what I was doing. If it weren't for the fact that Grace was just breezing through I might have called it quits and made another pair of socks. Socks I can practically make in my sleep. Shawlettes, not so much. If you want a challenge I say "go for it" and call Grace if you need any help.
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| Mine before blocking |
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| Grace's before blocking |
May 31st Summer Mystery Shawlette
Who's idea was this anyway? Grace and I are working on a mother/daughter knitting project. I should say that Grace is making great progress on the project and I have restarted mine 7 times. I think I've figured it out now, but I will never catch up with Grace. We found the Mystery Shawlette on the Blog WendyKnits. She releases a few more rows of the shawl every couple of days, but we won't know what we are making until it's done. That's the "mystery" part.
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| My progress |
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| Grace's progress |
May 30th
Finished!
Once I saw this adorable little baby set, I knew I'd be making it. I don't really have a baby in my life to give it to right now, but I'm OK with that. It was so fun and fast to knit that I think I might be making more. Just to have on hand. You never know when you might need a baby gift. Right?
May 19th
David and my Dad are going to be here for the Memorial Day weekend. Which means that I have to get the guest bedroom cleaned up. Since that's where I sew and just generally stack stuff I had a lot of cleaning up to do. But... you know me and when I'm on a roll I just have to finish. I had started a French Cottage Rose quilt and was determined to get the top pieced before my sewing machine had to go away. I got all of the rose blocks done and sewn together but still need to piece the border. Oh well, maybe sometime in July I'll be able to finish it up for real. I can't wait to see it finished. Here's what it looks like so far. Sorry for the fuzzy photo.
May 1st
Catching up, because I've been a little busy lately I got behind in my block of the month quilting. This past week I finished up the blocks for March and April. I think the March block might be my favorite so far. All of the pieces went together well. I love it when the points work out and you don't even have to do any special pinning or swearing. If you know what I mean.
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| April |
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| March |
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| April and March |
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| All 4 blocks together |
April 20th
A few months ago I found this pattern at the yarn shop and couldn't resist the adorable, funny, chickens.
I don't usually fancy spending my time crocheting chicken bits and pieces, but these guys just have such personality. I started off slowly, but before I knew it I had enough parts to make a dozen. Something about chickens, eggs and a dozen made me think that it was time to stop. Sewing all of the parts together took more time than the crocheting, but now that they are finished I think it was worth it. Alan keeps asking me what I'm going to do with them. I keep telling him that that's not the point. You would think he would understand that by now. I'm sure these guys will find homes. Maybe one will end up at your house...
April 13th
Finally finished the 3 Christmas quilts that I quilted on the long arm machine in Iowa back in March. I wanted to get the bindings sewed on before it got to hot to be sitting around with a quilt on my lap. I saved the biggest one for last. That was probably a mistake, because I found a zillion reason to put off doing it. Tuesday night is the night that I stay up "late" watching TV. So Tuesday night I was determined to get it done. They all turned out great. Sorry the pictures are so fuzzy. Getting the lighting right is tricky business for me. I think I need a new camera, or maybe a photography class.
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| This one is my favorite |
April 5th
Another finished quilt. This one made just for Grace's room. I love these quick and easy rag quilts. The best part is how warm they are. This one is made with flannel and a middle layer of batting. You make a bunch of squares, sew them together and then throw the whole thing in the washing machine. The fringe fluffs up and you end up with a thick, comfy blanket.
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| Side A |
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| Side B |
April 4th
Grace finished another sweater. That's 3 for her during the past year. This one is called the Feather Weight Cardigan and it used the skinniest yarn ever, which meant that it took a long time to knit. It turned out great and will make a perfect cardi to take to Spain.
March 26th
Can you guess what this is going to be? While I was quilting in Iowa I picked up one of Peg's new Square Peg patterns. What a fun and very needed project.
Thanks, Peg.
March 15th
Grace finished her Shrug! It turned out beautifully and she loves it so that's really all that matters. She decided to do a little less of the crochet along the bottom edge. I think she got tired of the crochet and was ready to start on a new project.
March 8th
Parts and Pieces
I am making s l o w progress with this sweater. I had to have this yarn way back when. I think it might have been around Christmas. My new goal is to have it finished by the end of the month. Surely there will be a couple of chilly days in April. I will be sad if I have to wait until next fall to wear it. 
A back, 2 fronts and a sleeve DONE!
One sleeve still to go. I can do this...
March 3rd
I forgot to show you Block 2 of the Mystery block of the Month Club I joined in January.
I love the colors so much. I'm not sure why I'm on such a turquoise and green kick right now. They just go so well with each other. Here's a look at both finished blocks. I can't wait for Block 3.
March 2nd
Quilting madness is what's going on around here. I should say quilt top piecing. I'm trying to finish up 4 current works in progress so that I can take them to Iowa and finish them up on Peg's long arm machine. Doesn't that all sound so technical? It really isn't. To me it's just plain old fun! Here's what I have so far.
March 1st
Remember this yarn from way back when? Well I bought it to make a pair of socks. As you can see, I started on the cuff and that's about as far as I got. Then I bought this new very cool sock book.
So now I'm starting over. I think I'm going to make the ones called Classy Slip-Ups, because you all know how classy I am and they look to be the easiest in the book. Always start with the easiest.
So now I'm starting over. I think I'm going to make the ones called Classy Slip-Ups, because you all know how classy I am and they look to be the easiest in the book. Always start with the easiest.
February 14th
Valentine's Day Goodies
Not sure if this is really a "projects" post, but I couldn't figure out where else to put it. Believe me, coating all of those little tiny pretzels in chocolate felt like a "project".
February 6th
Right around the holidays, I got this idea that I needed to make some Christmas quilts. I have this great banister railing to display quilts on, but somehow the bright colorful ones that I keep up there didn't say "Christmas" to me. My local quilt shop had a huge after Christmas sale and I hot-footed
January 23rd
Don't look Grace! Too cute Valentine pillow cases and throw pillow for my little Valentine. Sweet Dreams Gracie Girl.
January 16th
It's Quilt Time Again! Can you believe it? I was going to take a break from quilting, but who was I kidding? I just have a thing for fabric and cutting and sewing makes me happy. I joined the Block of the Month Club and my local quilt shop Among Friends. It's a mystery quilt, so no one knows what it will look like until December. The suspense may kill me... I attended my first meeting on Saturday and got the pattern and fabric to make the January block. We could choose between two different color themes for our quilts. I chose to make the Kyoto which is primarily blue and green. The other option was called Ella and it was more green and plum. I'm very happy with my choice. The block is called Bewitched and I cut it out yesterday and sewed it together today. Happy, happy, happy. It all went together so well. I love when that happens. Can't wait until February.
January 10th
Before Grace leaves to go back to college I decided to make her a couple of new "warmies" see last post for details. She picked out the fabric and we bought the rice at Whole Foods so I guess they are probably organic warmies. She's wearing both of them around her neck just for show.
January 8th
I know it's been a while and you probably think that I have been working so hard that I have not had time to craft. Well, you would be wrong. There is always time to craft. Sometimes it's hard to blog, but that's a whole nother story. Here is what I've been up to.
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| Remember these socks? |
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| They now belong on Angela's feet |
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| Felted hat with flower |
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| Started out looking like this |
That's about it. I did knit a vest for my mom for Christmas, but I forgot to take a picture before I sent it off.
December 4th
Lest you thought that I was just sitting around twiddling my thumbs, here are a few of the projects that I've been working on in my limited spare time.
My colorful afghan is almost done. It just needs some kind of a border and I can't figure out what I want to do. I've tried a few but they just didn't look quite right. I think I'm going to try and make several thin rows and then a shell border in the dark brown. Hopefully it will be completely done next week.
Over Thanksgiving I made this very soft, very lovely neckerchief. It's really just a square scarf, but you fold it into a triangle so that it's extra warm. It's made out of alpaca yarn and it's yummy.
November 14th
New Project Alert!
Looking around the living room last week I decided that what we really needed was an afghan to match our new furniture. Something bright and cheery. Something warm and cozy. So, I decided to crochet one giant Granny Square. I love this project. There is absolutely no thinking involved. You just keep going around and around until it's the size you want it to be. Here's a picture of the first completed round using all of the colors. I've got a ways to go, but it's super fast. Hopefully I'll be able to show you the finished blanket soon.
November 10th
Another pair of socks and a couple or really bad pictures of me wearing my purple sweater. do you know how hard it is to take a picture of yourself. Anyway, you get the idea. I wore it to work today and loved it!
November 8th
So here's a picture of me wearing the grey February Lady Sweater that I finished a few weeks ago. I really love the way it turned out. I might have to make another one with longer sleeves.
Hand Warmers/Fingerless Gloves
Whatever you call them, they sure are fun! To be honest, I've always thought they were stupid. It's my fingers that need to be kept warm. Why not just wear gloves? I'll tell you why not. If you wear gloves or mittens, you can't: knit, type on the computer, make a grocery list, make a cup of tea..... Get it? I love my new hand warmers. The best part is that they were super easy to make. A weekend project for sure.
October 26th
The Fair Isle bag felted beautifully! I was really scared to put it in the washer, but I shouldn't have been. Grace decided on the very cool, pink, leather handles (which cost more than the yarn) and I sewed them on last night with extra strength thread. I had so much fun trying something new. Stepping out of my comfort zone is always a little daunting, but this time it worked out great!
October 15th
October 11th
October 6th
The February Lady Sweater is almost finished. All it needs is sleeves and buttons. I tried it on yesterday to check on the length and I think I'm going to LOVE it!
September 29th
Currently I am trying to finish up a few more projects. First on my list is the February Lady sweater that I started way back in July. It's another "lace" 3/4 length sleeve sweater, similar to my purple sweater, but not. I love the grey cotton yarn and think it will be perfect with jeans.
I finally finished the little Afghan or what I'm calling a "bed scarf" for Grace's bed. I'm pretty happy with the way it turned out. I'm especially happy that I added the green shell boarder. You would think that I would be sick to death of Granny Squares, but I'm actually looking forward to starting another crochet project soon. But first.... I need to finish my Picnic quilt, February Lady sweater and a little holiday embroidery/patchwork thing I started months ago. You know, I'm all about getting things done!
September 10th
September 2nd
It's done and I love it! I was going to show you a picture of me wearing my new purple sweater, but Alan took the camera to work today. Some really cool bugs growing in the lab. I'll try and get a picture of the sweater on soon. I might wait until it cools down a little. It does have 3/4 sleeves and in knit in a cotton blend yarn so hopefully it will be perfect for these "mild" Kentucky winters.
August 26th
August 24th
Blocking my "Hey Teach" sweater today! I can't believe how well it is turning out. I have learned so many new "tricks" taking this class. Lynn the instructor has been amazing. When working with lace, she recommends that you block before you actually sew the sweater together. Those are my right and left fronts all bunched up waiting for the back to dry. Then I will place them on top of the back so that everything matches up and spray them good with water. The idea is to gently work the lace open.
The sleeves are done too! Hopefully next week I will be able to model the finished product. Keep your fingers crossed that it's not 99 degrees.
August 20th
Grace did it! She worked like crazy, but finally finished her striped blanket last night. She was determined to take it to college done. (Well, almost done. She may add a border, but not now). Considering that it is still in the 90's here and her dorm room is not air conditioned she may not be needing it for a while.
August 13th
Not much crafting got done this week due to all of our summer guests. I have almost completed the back and two fronts of my sweater. That is how much I'm supposed to have done by the next class on Monday. Hopefully I did it right this time and I won't have to sit there and watch Lynn take out all of my work.
Grace got it in her head that she wanted to knit a blanket for her dorm room. We saw a really cute knit throw at Ikea and instead of just buying it she was all "I could make that." Well of course she can; it's just that sometimes these things end up taking more time and money than you thought they would. A lesson learned....
August 4th
Haven't had much time for projects lately. I did finish the quilt top last week and now I'm trying to figure out how to quilt it. I've heard that there is a shop in town that lets you rent a long arm machine. I need to check that out. After much fussing and whining (I wish it were wining) I finished the back of my purple "Hey Teach" sweater, the one I'm taking the class for. It is a bit of a challenge because I have to really pay attention and my mind has been on 50 million things lately. All I can say is it's coming along and I'll keep you posted.July 27th
Finished the 12 blocks for my Picnic Quilt. I think I've decided that I like the avocado block best.
Probably because I love avocados and could eat one a day for the rest of my life. Couldn't you just go for some guacamole right now? I hope to get the whole top put together tomorrow, borders and all. David will need a place to sleep, so I think my sewing days may be on hold for a week or two.
I forgot to mention yesterday that I was starting a knitting class last night. I don't know how I forgot to tell you, because I have been so excited about it for the past few days. I tried to sign up for the class when we first moved in a little over a month ago, but it was full. I was bummed because I was hoping that it would be a fun way to meet people. I went back to the yarn store last week to see if I could put my name on a waiting list and it was my lucky day! Someone had to pull out of the class and her spot was mine for the taking. I took it and last night was the first class. I had a wonderful time and got to spend the evening with 5 delightful woman. I'm looking forward to getting to know them better as we all try to conquer the Hey Teach sweater
The sweater that we are making has 3/4 length sleeves. I'm thinking it will be perfect for fall in Kentucky.
July 26th Projects in the works!
Here are some of the crafty things that I am currently working on:
Currently on my needles:
That's what I'm up to these days.
July 23rd
More UK stuff done! Once I knew that my sewing machine had arrived safe and sound I totally felt the calling yesterday to set it up and make sure that it still worked. It does! I finished the little throw pillows to go with Grace's going off to college quilt. The whole thing turned out so well. I think this quilt might be my new favorite which is pretty funny because I was darn sure that I was going to hate it in the beginning. Like I've said before, I appreciate order. I follow the rules. I like to buy fabrics that "go together". When Grace and I went in to our most favorite quilt shop and said that we wanted fabric to make a blue Turning Twenty quilt, Peg, the owner just started pulling any old bolt of material off the shelves that had blue in it. Once 20 bolts were stacked on the counter, she said "there you go". And Grace agreed. Just like that. We were in and out in 10 minutes. Definitely not the way that I shop for quilt fabric. But, here it is and I really do love it. It's going to be perfect in Graces dorm room don't you think?
July 21st
Kentucky Wildcat socks are finished!
I have to get myself to the yarn store fast.
I found this sweater
pattern and can't wait to get stared. What color yarn should I choose?
July 18th
Socks are almost done. Great news: I found my sewing machine! Now I need to find the fabric I bought to make Grace pillows for her dorm room. I'm on a mission and may spend most of today in the cool, dark basement....Temperatures are supposed to feel like 104 degrees. I think I heard one weather guys say "steam bath". The basement is calling.
Grace was probably the most productive family member (craft wise) this weekend. She was determined to finish knitting the sweater she has been working on for just a week or so. And she did!
Isn't it beautiful? The color is called Poppy and it fits her perfectly. I'm going to try and talk her in to knitting one for me. I think I already know the answer, but it doesn't hurt to ask.
Along with all of the moving into a new house projects those of you who know me well know that I just have to keep my hands busy at all times. Since my sewing machine is still hiding in a box in the basement I am trying to finish up a couple of knitting projects. I started these Kentucky Wildcat socks for Grace before we left Iowa. I figured that she would be wanting to stock up on all things blue. The first one turned out perfectly! I tried a little something different on the heel (knit the heel flap in garter stitch instead of stockinette). Now the challenge is to make the second sock match.
