Crochet Cami

Traveling Woman Shawl (para mi madre)

2012-01-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

One of my goals for 2011 was to hand knit something for my mom and my sister. My sister received her hand knit item for her birthday, a thermis cowl. For my mom, I knit her a shawl... something to keep her warm in church meetings.

I had called her several times asking "What colors do you like to wear?" I originally planned on something gray, you know... easy to match with outfits, but in the end decided on a green. Malabrigo Rios, in Aguas to be exact. It is no surprise that I'm a huge fan of Malabrigo, so it was only fitting that I used it to make something for my mom - since I'm a huge fan of her too!

After looking through tons of pattern choices, I finally decided on the Traveling Woman Shawl, by Liz Abinant. I know it looks a little intimidating with all those purl rows, but this pattern was wonderful. It was my first time working a lace pattern, so I did have to go to the LYS to get some help on how to read it. Once they explained it to me, I was off to the races. I guess I was just a little over-excited to be making this because within three days, I was out of yarn and waiting for a new skein to arrive. Thank goodness I had ordered it from Mr. Yarn, and they still had a skein in the same dyelot available.

I think it turned out lovely! I really debated if I should give it away or keep it for myself ;-) I decided my mom would probably love it more than I ever could, so I wrapped it up for her Christmas.

When I called on Christmas morning to see if she had opened it, my niece (she's almost 5!) told me "Mamaw really likes her cape." Too cute!~

Raverly Page
Pattern - Traveling Woman Shawl, by Liz Abinant.
Date started - 11/20/11
Date Finished - 12/7/11
Made For - Mi Madre
Yarn - Malabrigo Rios in Aguas
Needles - US 10, 40" circulars - Addi Turbos
Pre-Blocked Size- 52" wingspan by 14" tall
Finished Size - 80" wingspan by 24" tall

Beauchamp Cowl - Malabrigo Style

2012-01-10T15:15:00.000-07:00

This is actually a FO of 2011, but I'm just getting around to posting about it. There are still a few FO's of 2011 that I have yet to show. Hopefully, this will start to slow down now that the Holidays are over.

First off, this was my first time working with Malabrigo Silky Merino and I'm hooked. This yarn is a delight (although, how could it not be since it is Malabrigo) to work with and is very soft, and well, silky. Love it! There will definitely be more projects in Silky Merino in my future, for sure!

I originally cast on for this cowl back in August 2011, but then my hubs and I purchased our first home (YAY!) and life was pure chaos for a few months. Of course, I was too excited to start this project that I didn't take the time to do a swatch. I cast on for the DK weight version. When I got about 10 rows into the pattern, I realized it would be way too small and wouldn't fit over my head. I was working at the gauge necessary for the fingering weight version. So I frogged it. UGH! Lesson learned.

I re-cast on for the fingering weight version with a 132 sts. I also changed the order of the colors, which I'm glad I did. I really like the teal feather color and wanted the cowl to have more of it. After that, I was off in a flash. Such a great pattern and fun to see it emerge. I really like fair isle knitting, it helps to keep things interesting.

After finishing it, I did a quick blocking on it, but I don't know if I would do this next time (*if I used Silky Merino again) because it looked pretty good when it was finished and didn't really need a blocking. It did grow quite a bit upon blocking (about 22" around), which is nice because it gives it a little more drape than the pre-block item had, but not so good at the same time if you want the cowl to stand up.

We've had a extremely warm winter this year (I think I've only worn my coat probably 5 times this season) so unfortunately I haven't gotten much use out of this cowl, yet. The few times that I have worn it, I've been extremely happy with it. It is extremely warm and so soft... and incredibly cute, too!

Raverly Page
Date Started - 8/9/11
Date Finished - 12/3/11
Yarn - Malabrigo Silky Merino in Natural, Spring Water, and Teal Feather
Needles - US 6, 16" circulars
Pattern - Beauchamp Cowl by Laura Chau
Mods - Used the fingering weight version of the pattern for this cowl, although Malabrigo Silky Merino is more of a DK weight yarn.

Malabrigo Fingerless Mittens

2011-12-29T08:38:00.000-07:00

Wow, these mitts I finished a long, long time ago. I don't know why I never posted about them, I guess I just got busy and never took any pictures. Now they are loved and very well worn. They are starting to pill terribly and could use some love with the lint shaver.

I finished these back in February of this year just in time for our vacation to New York. I knew it would be cold so I whipped up these mitts to keep my hands warm.

Raverly Project Page
Pattern - Potluck Wool Mittenettes by Midnight Knitter (free)
Date Started - Feb. 19, 2011
Date Finished - Feb 20, 2011
Yarn - Malabrigo Merino Worsted in Tuscan Sky (lot 0232)
Needles - US 7, DPN's
Modifications - Knit 12 rounds of K1P1 ribbing, k7 rounds before starting increase for thumb gussett, worked increases up to 7 sts, work 8 rounds before ribbing, worked K1P1 ribbing for 12 rounds, sewen in BO, picked up 5 sts around thumb and worked for 9 rounds.

Age of Brass & Steam Kerchief

2011-12-28T06:47:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure why this project took me so long to finish, (okay, it might have something to do with all the purling involved in this pattern - but that's just a guess) because it has quickly become my new favorite scarf. I wear it everywhere now, even though the weather has been in the 70's, I can't help but wear it. I cast on for this scarf on 8/22/10 and finally finished it a year later (9/9/11), but hey, at least I finished.

This yarn was amazing to work with. Very soft and squishy and drapes very nicely. I opted to change up the pattern and use a fingering weight yarn instead. As a result, I ended up using size 4 needles and I did two extra repeats before completing the final section.

Raverly Project Page
Pattern - Age of Brass and Steam Kerchief by Orange Flower
Needles - Size 4, circulars
Yarn - Knit One, Crochet Too - Crock-o-Dye. Color - Garnet (289)
Finished Size - 18" x 51"
Date Started - 8/22/10
Date Finished - 9/9/11
Modifications - Fingering weight yarn, size 4 needles, added two extra repeats before final section.

Knitted Bracelet - Turk's Head Knot

2011-12-15T11:21:00.001-07:00

The other day on Pinterest, I saw this adorable knitted bracelet. Cute, right? Well, when I clicked on the link, it took me to site that demonstrates how to tie knots (link here), which was pretty awesome... but I was looking for the knitter who made this beautiful bracelet.

I really, really liked it and decided it wouldn't be that hard to make one of my own.

So I did! and.... I LOVE LOVE LOVE IT!!!

I'm mostly a earrings -pins-maybe a necklace-once in a while - type of girl. This bracelet has changed all that. I have practically worn it everyday since finishing it and every morning I want to coordinate my outfits to match it.

Raverly Project Page
Yarn - Malabrigo Rios in Arco Iris
Needles - US 8
Hours - Made on my lunch break (so less than an hour)

Calorimetry Ear Warmer

2011-12-08T11:02:00.000-07:00

One of my good friends has a birthday in November, and so I thought she needed a little something special to keep her warm during the cold season (ugh... Utah weather). As a side note, I really love living on the east coast where it is warm and pleasant through the winter months. I really don't miss the snow. But I do enjoy making knits for all my family and friends to keep them warm while they are burrowed in the snow.

I remember her saying once that she wanted a headband/ear warmer for the winter to keep her warm without squishing her hair. She has beautiful hair and it would be a shame to cover it all up under a hat. And what better way to keep your ears toasty warm then in Malabrigo!

I decided on a simple ribbed ear warmer (found free here). It really is a simple pattern, and the end results are lovely. It could easily be dressed up with a knitted flower, or pin, a ribbon.... really anything, or just worn plain (that's how I like it, so that's what I did).

The button was nothing special, just something that I had on hand and matched. I do like that the increases create additional holes so that if it is not tight enough there are different options of where to button it.

After reading a few notes on other projects on Raverly, I made a few modifications to the pattern. Here they are: Cast on 92 sts, 11 repeats of row 5, 13 repeats of row 7.

Overall, I really liked the finished project and hope that she does as well. I might even make one for myself.

Raverly Project Page
Pattern - Calorimetry by Kathryn Schoendorf
Yarn - Malabrigo Merino Worsted in Tuscan Sky
Needles - US 8
Finished Size - 23"

Pink Thermis Cowl

2011-11-28T11:57:00.001-07:00

Last year, I made a Thermis Cowl, and it really is one of my favorites. Since my sister has a birthday in the cold of winter, I decided to make one for her.

This pattern is particularly wonderful since it creates a nice thick, fabric that makes it extra warm, but also has some buttons to open up if you get too hot.

The best part about this cowl, the yarn was hand dyed by me! Yep! And not with Easter egg tablets either, this time I went all crazy scientist in the kitchen and used acid dyes.

I think it turned out wonderful, and really love the subtle color changes - which I worked really hard to create. Overall, it was a wonderful learning experience and it was so much fun to knit with yarn that I created.

Raverly Page
Pattern - Thermis Cowl by Kris Knits
Needles - US size 6
Yarn - Superwash Merino Wool - hand dyed by me!
Date Started - July 2011
Date Finished - August 9, 2011

Ballband Dishcloths ...in BULK Apparently

2011-11-03T08:35:00.000-06:00

Well, I think I finally have a new favorite dishcloth pattern. Don't worry, I still love the grandmother's favorite dishcloth pattern, but recently I have been obsessed with the Ballband Dishcloth.

This picture shows ten of the finished dishcloths, but there are a few missing that were gifted before I could take pictures of them.

We just purchased our first home, and so I'm excited to use all new dishcloths in our new kitchen. I love the bright colors of these and think it might even make the chore of dish washing a happy experience.

My favorite is the top dishcloth, that was made with leftover scraps.

I used the slightly smaller version pattern for this. (Instructions found here.) I have made this pattern before (see here), and decided I didn’t want them as large as the original pattern, and not quite as small as the “slightly smaller version”. So I did an in-between size and added 6 sts to the cast on for a total of 43 sts. Turned out perfect size! Love them, obviously, I can’t seem to stop making them.

And since I just can't help myself, I've also managed to make a few grandmother's favorite dishcloths to add to the pile.

Raverly Page
Pattern - Ballband Dishcloth
Modifications -Cast on 43 sts
Yarn - Various colors of Lily Cotton Sugar n' Creme
Needles - Size 7 US straights

Oh Boy, Baby Booties!

2011-10-25T08:10:00.000-06:00

Are these not the cutest things ever!? I think they look like little baby uggs.

These were made for a cousin who was having her fist baby, a little boy. They live in Utah, where winters are cold, so I'm hoping these will help to keep the little ones' feet super warm.

This was my first attempt at a baby shoe, and overall it went pretty well. I learned a few new tricks on this pattern. I followed some modifications by a fellow knitter (link found below), so that each bootie was knit in a single piece and then grafted - which is the new technique I learned. Finally learned to do the Kitchener Stitch. I was a little nervous at first, but thanks to the many videos on YouTube, it was so easy.

Overall, I am super pleased with these. Super cute, really easy to construct, and super fast.

Raverly Link
Yarn - Knitpicks Swish DK - Green Apple
Needles - US 4
Pattern - Oh Baby, Baby Booties, by Judy Nemish
Mods- Followed modifications by Babylee
Hours - 2.5 hours per bootie

Friday Night Knitting

2011-08-24T15:23:00.002-06:00

Friday Night Knitting, a photo by raverlygirl on Flickr.

A relaxing evening spent knitting... just what the doctor ordered. Although, this was over two weeks ago. Maybe I should prescribe myself another night of knitting just to keep me sane.

PS - This is made with the Malabrigo Silky Merino, which is to die for. I can't wait until it is finished.

Knitmap

2011-08-04T07:48:00.000-06:00

Have you heard of Knitmap? It is the Greatest Thing Ever!!!

Every time we go on vacation or go visit a new town, I'm always searching for Yarn Stores. Knitmap will now save me so much time searching google trying to find yarn stores. "Knitmap is a searchable catalog of yarn stores from all over the world. The best part is anyone can review, rate and help keep Knitmap up to date!"

Seriously, go try it out! I found, not one, but TWO, yarn stores just around the corner from my house that I never knew even existed. I wish I would have known about this earlier.

Pile-Able Pups

2011-07-28T07:28:00.002-06:00

My favorite little nephew just turned 2! Which is definitely a good reason to knit him up a special present. I thought these adorable pile-able pups would be just perfect. Fun for playing and stacking. Even though the patten calls for three pups, I only made two, since it was his second birthday.

I must admit, I really struggled with these guys. Mostly just the seaming gave me troubles. It was my first time seaming and it was definitely a good learning experience. Using the mattress stitch worked perfectly to hide the seams but it was a major pain to figure out. Once I got the hang of it, finishing up these guys was no problem. And from now on, I can use the mattress stitch if I need to.

The only changes I made was to switch to a 16" circular when I picked up the stitches along the side. It was a little easier to manage than the DPN's at that point. I also did a stripe patten on the belly of the pup. The yarn I used was just enough for one pup, but only because of the stripe on the belly.

Overall, this was a fun learning experience project. Something small and quick (if you already know how to use the mattress stitch). And just enough of a motivator to get me back into the swing of things with knitting.

How adorable are the little tails?

Raverly Page
Pattern - Pile-Able Pups by Anna Hrachovec
Yarn - Lily Sugar N' Creme Solids in Yellow Sun, Green, and Bright Blue
Needles - Size 5 US DPN's and 16" circulars
Safety eyes and nose from Joann's

Hand Dyed Yarn

2011-06-23T09:40:00.000-06:00

Remember when I dyed my own yarn? Remember how awesome it was?! I knit it up into a pair of socks, and they quickly became my favorite. So I thought I should try it again.

Well, this year after Easter, I stocked up on some more egg dying tablets. Stocked up with lots of options for colors! I was going for a self-striping yarn, but messed up - too much excitement for me to focus properly it appears. There is always next time I guess. I still think they turned out nicely, but I'll have to see how it will knit up.

I'm even considering trying kettle dying with some real fiber dye and not Easter egg tablets. I think I might officially be hooked!

New Pillow Covers

2011-05-21T12:48:00.000-06:00

Last year I made some pillow covers for our couch pillows. We loved them and used them to death. The pillows that I covered with them are actually a red suede and after a year of use, they were starting to change the covers a light pink instead of a crisp white that they should have been. So it was time to change it up and make some new ones.

So that is exactly what I did. Nothing fancy, and I don't even have a pattern to share with you because I just made it up really. I think the larger pillows were 20" and the smaller ones are 17". I just made a flap that overlaps in the back. Actually very simple... and I adore the end results.

Plethora Continues - Project 3

2011-04-29T18:38:00.001-06:00

I don't know why, perhaps it's just a fluke, but I've finished three blankets recently (see posts of plethora projects 1 and 2) and all of them are for babies, and all of them are red. What's up with that? And no, that is not an announcement in any way. Anyway, here is another finished project. I warned you there was plethora of projects coming.

After finishing my 2010 Challenge quilt, I had a lot of 7 1/2 inch squares left over in the 30's prints. I didn't know what else I was going to do with them and didn't want to wast them, so I simply sewed them together. Super simple + super fast + super easy = an adorable baby quilt. No pattern, just sewed them in a random order trying to mix it up a little ... you know so no two red prints are next to each other, etc.

The end quilt measures approximately 42 x 42, a perfect crib size. Or this would make a great play mat. You know something to do the "I spy" game with since there are so many different prints.

For the backing and the binding, I used this red ducky print I got on a clearance sale. Don't ask me where I got it, or about the store it came from. It was was not a good experience, and I'd rather not re-live it, but I'm happy with the fabric, so I guess that outweighs the bad experience.

I made a small tag to attach to the corner. I kinda like the small and simple tag and think I might try screen printing some tags similar to this in the future. What do you think? I will have to see how ambitious I'm feeling, I guess.

Overall, it turned out to be an adorable baby blanket. A scrap quilt, in a way. And... I LOVE IT!

The Plethora Continues - Project 2

2011-04-28T09:43:00.000-06:00

I finally finished this chenille blanket that I started, um... well, lets just say it has been a while, and I'm glad to be able to cross it off the WIP's list. And I'm also glad to finally have had the opportunity to take some photos of it since it has been waiting and waiting for it's turn in the spot light.

I was inspired by this chenille blanket found here. These blankets look simple enough, and in fact they are, but all those straight lines of quilting gets really old, and really fast. Which is probably why I finished half of the quilting and then set it aside for several months before picking it back up again. The end results are just so adorable though, it almost makes it all worth it.

I used five layers for this blanket, all flannel fabrics. I layered the owl print on the bottom, a layer of pink then three additional layers - red, pink and yellow. I didn't pre-wash anything and I was really worried the red would bleed. I used a trick I found at Crazy Mom Quilts, which is to add 1 cup of table salt to the wash to keep it from bleeding. Works like a charm! I will definitely be using this trick in the future.

I quilted the lines 1/2 inch a part. After finishing all the quilting and all the cutting, the blanket squared up to measure 40 X 40, a nice crib size blanket. And with all those layers, it is super warm.

For the binding I used a red and white polka dot cotton print that I've used before (like here and here). I just love this fabric, it is one of my favorites. Plus it ties in really nicely with the owl print.

Just looking at all of those lines makes my eyes go wonky, but truly the end result is so worth it. This is probably one of my favorite baby blankets that I have made (which is why this one will be sticking with me). Maybe after a few months of forgetting about all those straight lines, I might even be tempted to make a second one.

There is a really simple tutorial on how to make one of these, if you are interested - but don't say I didn't warn you about all those straight lines - you can find it here.

A Plethora of Finished Projects

2011-04-20T10:59:00.001-06:00

I have a plethora of finished projects to share, but I'll just start with one today. A receiving blanket that has been patiently waiting to be finished. Why is it that the simplest projects often take the longest to finish? Seriously, this should not have taken me as long as it has, but... I'm just glad that it is done.

Same as always. Two flannel prints (the backing is an adorable purple gingham) with my favorite cross over stitch around the edge. Sweet and simple!

No plans for this one, so I guess it will just be "added to the pile", as my husband says.

Turn A Square - the Second

2011-03-30T13:42:00.003-06:00

Obviously, I couldn't let Dustin have the only warm head in a beautiful Turn A Square Hat. I had to make one for me as well. It was so very easy to make, and it took me less than 4 hours to complete this. I started it the day before we left on vacation and was able to finish it on the plane ride to NYC.

I used the same yarn as I did for Dustin's hat, but used the green color for the MC on mine. How adorable are we in our matching hats!? Cute, right?

I did make a few modifications to this hat as well. I used size 8 needles for the entire hat this time, I worked the jogless stripes on this one and think they looks so much nicer, I didn't increase any stitches after the brim (mostly because it fit well enough with out them because I was knitting on larger needles), knit the body for 6" before starting the decreases.

I absolutely Love Love Love this hat! It is perfect! Great fit, so very comfy, and very warm.

Raverly Link
Yarn - Malabrigo Rios in Lettuce and Coco
Needles - Size 8
Pattern - Turn a Square by Jared Flood

Serious Case of SSS

2011-03-29T09:02:00.000-06:00

I have had a serious case of SSS lately. That would be Second Sock Syndrome. I want to knit socks, but after I get the first one finished, I want to move on to a new pattern.

New goal ... learn to make socks two at a time.

Pattern - On Hold Lace Sock by Wendy Johnson
Yarn - Malabrigo Sock in Terracotta

Turn A Square - Malabrigo Style

2011-03-28T17:27:00.003-06:00

Back in February, we took a little vacation to New York City. It was guaranteed to be bitter cold in NY in February, so I knew that Dustin needed a hat to keep him warm. He doesn't usually like hats, but considering we were coming from NC where it was around 65-70 degrees each day, he was willing to sport a hat to keep him warm.

I have been wanting to make a Turn A Square Hat since I first saw it, like several years ago, but that was before I began knitting. This was the perfect time to try out this pattern, plus, I already had some great Malabrigo Rios in my stash that would work perfectly.

I did end up making a few changes but not much. Here is what I did.

I cast on 100 sts, k2 p2 for 1.5", increased to 108 sts, followed pattern for 5.5" then began increases per pattern.

In the end, I thought it looked perfect and fit nicely. Dustin was not so sure. He wanted it slightly longer to cover more of his neck. So being the loving wife I am, I frogged back and knit for 6" before starting the decreases. A simple hat that should have taken me a day to make ended up taking 5. But he likes it and it fits, and the best part --- He will wear it! I'd say it is another successful project.

Raverly Link
Pattern - Turn A Square by Jared Flood
Yarn - Malabrigo Rios in Lettuce and Coco
Needles - Size 7 for brim, Size 8 for body

Vesper Socks

2011-03-17T06:41:00.000-06:00

I have one completed sock! Now on to the second one.

I think these might just be my new favorite.

Yarn from Vesper Sock Yarn. Color - Serendipitous

Malabrigo Mitts

2011-03-05T06:12:00.001-07:00

Dustin has been asking for a second pair of fingerless mitts since he loved the first pair so much. I decided to use some of the Malabrigo Yarn I got for Christmas. When ever I need to make some quick and easy fingerless mitts, this pattern is my definite favorite. So easy, simple, quick, and looks great in the end. These really only took about two hours to make, but I put them down and waited forever before finishing them. I really dislike picking up stitches and so I let them sit and sit before finally just attacking it and getting them done.

I did make some modifications to it since I was using more of an aran/bulky weight yarn than a worsted weight. Here is what I did.

*Size 9 needles
*K12 rounds of K1P1 ribbing
*K7 rounds before thumb gussett
*K8 rounds before finger ribbing
*K10 rounds of ribbing before bind off
*picked up 5 sts for thumb
*K6 rounds on thumb before bind off

Raverly Link
Pattern - Potluck Mitts by Midnight Knitter
Needle - Size 9
Yarn - Malabrigo Twist in Autumn Forest
Made For - Dustin
Date Started - January 17, 2011
Date Finished - February 19, 2011
Total Hours - 3

Oceanos Cowl

2011-03-02T18:28:00.000-07:00

Malabrigo March is here! I actually got started a month early, or two, (apparently I need to work on my patience) and now have quite a few Malabrigo finished projects to show.

First is a neck warmer for my dearest love. He requested a scarf and then at the last minute decided a smaller neck warmer would work better. After choosing the yarn, (Malabrigo Worsted in Oceanos), he choose this pattern. After reading through it, I figured it would be easy and not take that long. WRONG!!!!

Let me explain.

I ended up having to cast on three different times just to get it correct. First, I read the instructions incorrectly and casted on in the round. The second time it was too few stitches (not a problem with the pattern but rather Dustin wanting it to be larger in size). The third time, too many stitches (Dustin decided it was too big now). Fourth time was a charm! I was finally off and knitting, and then the pattern started to come easier. Now I was really cruzing... that is until I reached the first button hole row. Rip, rip, rip! Try that again. This time it was not my fault. The pattern has an error, and you should knit a row in between the button rows.

I ended making quite a few modifications to this pattern. Here is what I did.

*I used a worsted weight yarn
*Cast on 104 sts (if I were to make this again, I would cast on 96... but I won't be making another one)
*I worked the pattern for 3" before the first button hole.
*Worked 7 rows of K1P1 before bind off.

This was by far one of the most challenging and frustrating patterns I have worked yet. I don’t necessarily think that it is a difficult pattern to work (it is actually quite easy and the end result is just lovely), I just think it has difficult instructions. They way the pattern is written, makes it extremely difficult to follow... resulting in lots of ripping and lots of frustration. I almost gave up on this project several times just because of the pattern instructions.

In the end, I'm glad I finished it. It was a challenge, and helped me to grow in a little patience (mind you not very much, but a little), and the hubby loves it - which makes it all worth it. After blocking the cowl, it grew quite a bit. Then after a few times of wearing it, it has stretched out a little more. Hubby kept complaining that it wasn't tight enough, so I removed the buttons from the button band edge and moved them in a little. Now it fits perfectly. And just in time for spring! Hopefully it will get a lot more wear next year.

Raverly Link
Pattern - Pretty Bird Neck Warmer by Knitting Pretty in DC
Yarn - Malabrigo Merino Worsted, in Oceanos
Needles -Size 8
Buttons - Purchased at LYS
Date Started - Nov. 17, 2010: frogged project and re-cast on December 1, 2010

Date Finished - Finished w/out buttons 1/2/11; finished with buttons 1/28/11
Total Hours - 9 (this includes the 4 hours I put into it and had to frog)

PS - My favorite yarn store, Mr. Yarn, (best prices around for Malabrigo yarn) is having a Malabrigo March Madness Sale on their already discounted prices. Head on over to their shop and get some Malabrigo goodness.

Irish Hiking Scarf - Finished!

2011-02-21T11:28:00.000-07:00

I hate to even admit this, but this scarf has been on the needles for 10 months. Yikes! That is way too long. I'm glad to have this finished, and just in time for the weather to start warming up (it is 76 today in case you were wondering). In my defense, the reason this took me so long is that this scarf is a monster. Finished length is 6" wide by 98" long. Yes - 98 inches long! I just kept knitting and knitting until I ran out of yarn, then after blocking, it grew significantly. I love it though!

The pattern is called "Irish Hiking Scarf" and is a perfect project for learning cables. By the time this scarf was finished... I was able to make a cable without a cable needle! If you are wanting to try cables, this is definitely the perfect beginner pattern. You can find it for free here.

I'm not sure how much I like this yarn yet. It was okay to work with (it didn't split at all), but the end result is a little scratchy. Not ideal for something wrapped around your skin. But I think it will get softer with use. I do love the color though. Beautiful color changes throughout but no pooling.

Raverly Link
Pattern - Irish Hiking Scarf from Hello Yarn
Needles - Clover Bamboo US size 7 straights
Yarn - 2 skeins Universal Yarn: Deluxe Worsted Tones in Wine Dance
Total Yardage - 440 yards
Finished Length - 6" X 98"
Date Started - February 23, 2010
Date Finished - December 31, 2010

2010 Challenge Quilt

2011-02-15T07:49:00.001-07:00

We finally had some really nice weather and I was able to get out and take some photos of some finished projects. (More to come, I promise!)

This is my 2010 Challenge Quilt. Last January, my mom (love ya!) provided my sister, me, and herself with a bundle of 30's prints fat quarters. I think there were 20 in the set, but I can't remember. The rules : you must make a quilt using all of the fabrics; you can add fabrics to it if you want; it has to be larger than a baby sized quilt; and must be finished by the end of 2010.

We all shared which fabrics we got since each bundle was slightly different and talked about patterns we wanted to make with our new fabrics. Before I knew it, it was September and I still hadn't cut into the fabrics yet, let alone decided on a pattern. I saw this All Patched Up Quilt made by Cluck Cluck Sew and knew instantly that it would be perfect for my 30's prints. At the time, she didn't have a pattern for sale (she does now, go here to purchase it) so I decided I would just do my best without a pattern.

I used her pattern for the Raw Edge Circle quilt to get me started. For the circles I cut the back ground fabrics in the white and the squares were cut out of the prints. For the square centers, I cut them (I think, I can't find my notes on how I made this) around 4" square. I sewed them on the same way I did the circles, and then cut them into four pieces and sewed them back together to get the scrappy block. It doesn't look like that is how she did the squares in her pattern, but I wanted each of them to have the 'raw edge' look, so that is what I ended up doing. I didn't worry about getting each square or circle exactly centered on the background blocks, which ended up perfect. The squares and circles were no where near perfect which just adds to the character of the quilt.

I had enough scraps left over that I was able to add a scrappy border. I think the border strips were about 2.5" wide. I also used the leftover scraps for the binding.

I did end up using all of the fabrics in my bundle, plus I add four that I had found in cute little shop in West Virginia. Looking back, I wish I would have purchased enough for the backing as well. I ended up with this purple backing, only because it was the only 30's print available at my LQS. Nothing fancy for the back, just the print. I quilted it in straight lines around each block, which makes for an interesting pattern on the back.

Overall, I love this quilt. I love that it has a special meaning behind it and that my family each has a quilt of their own using the same fabrics. The end size was round 70 x 58, which means it is our new 'go-to' lap quilt for the couch. Oh, and yes, I did get it finished before the end of the year, December 28th to be exact! Nothing like a good procrastination to get you motivated.

Oh Happy Happy Day!

2011-02-07T06:59:00.000-07:00

A very Happy Birthday indeed!

Milo Vest - Marching Elephants

2011-01-25T08:39:00.001-07:00

My sweet niece turned 4 this past weekend (yay!) and I decided that she needed something extra special for her birthday. Ever since I first saw Grace's version of the Milo Vest, I knew that I needed to make one. Seriously, is this not the cutest thing ever!? Come on- you can rave over it, I won't mind. ;-)

This is my first attempt at a knitted garment (I'm continuing with my year of knitting in 2011 and started with learning to knit a garment). It turned out fantastic! I was a little confused at first how it was going to turn out (it is knit top down, with no seaming) but I just kept following the pattern and watched it slowly come together. And I can officially say that I am hooked. (I fully plan to dress my kids in the cutest hand knit items you have ever seen!)

I replaced the cable down the center of the vest with a chart of the elephants by Jessica Tromp - found here. Are they not the cutest things? Just marching along! I had a little trouble with them at first. I'm a very tight knitter and I was pulling too tight on the floats on the back. I didn't realize this until I was almost done, at which point I had to rip back to the beginning of the chart and start again. I absolutely hate doing that, but I'm really glad I did.

I used Knitspicks Swish in DK weight for the yarn. This was my first time using this yarn and I really liked it. It seems to hold up pretty well and I really love the colors it comes it and it works great for colorwork projects. Bonus - it is superwash (which I'm sure her mom will appreciate). In the end, I am very very pleased with how this turned out! I couldn't wait to give it to her. I only wish I could have been there to see her open it. But apparently she loved it and that is all that matters.

Raverly Link
Pattern: Milo Vest by Georgie Hallam
Yarn:P Knitpicks Swish DK in Tidepool Heather and Dove Heather
Needles: US Size 5
Size Made: 22 inch chest (3 year old)
Finished Size: 22" around by 20" long (after blocking, it grew quite a lot. I hoping that means it will just give her room to grow into it)
Date Started: 12/25/10
Date Finished: 1/17/11
Total Hours Spent: 22.5 Hours

Opus Spicatum Hat

2011-01-05T15:57:00.001-07:00

I started this hat on in the middle of December (2010), and because it was such a fun knit, with an easy to memorize chart, it didn't take me long to finish it. In the end, this is my new favorite hat. I love it!

I have been wearing it non-stop since I finished, and even got a chance to see how it did in the snow. It was perfect!

I didn't block it, because I actually liked it a little better as a beanie than the beret it should block too. After reading several comments about this pattern on Raverly, I decided to make some modifications of my own. Here is what I did.

I cast on 96, and then increased to 130 sts. I omitted the color change on the brim (for no particular reason other than I liked it all gray), I used size 6US needles for the brim and then switched to size 8US needles for the body of the hat. I also repeated rows 16-19 twice, to give a little more length to the hat (I'm really glad I did this, it makes the hat less squishy on my head, and if I choose to later on it will block perfectly). And I repeated first row of CC on decreases to get to correct amount of stitches in the end.

The yarn I used for this is Aslan Trends, Royal Alpaca, and I must say...I AM IN LOVE! This yarn is a dream to knit with. So so so very soft, very warm, lovely stitch definition, and comes in a great variety of colors. I even have enough left over that I am thinking of making some mittens or maybe a cowl. Overall - Another successful project!

Raverly Link
Pattern: Opus Spicatum by Kelbourne Wollens
Yarn: Aslan Trends Royal Alpaca in Grey and Curry
Needles: US6 (brim) and US8 (body), US 8 DPNS
Date Started: December 15, 2010
Date Finished: December 23, 2010

2010 Finished Projects

2011-01-02T18:37:00.000-07:00

What a great year for crafting! I was able to start and complete 30 projects this year (not counting all the dishcloths I made) which feels fantastic!

This was my year for knitting, if you didn't notice. I was able to learn new things all year, which has only deepened my passion for this craft. I learn to make cables, do buttonholes, make hats, do fair isle projects, knit socks, etc. just to name a few. I was also able to complete two quilts this year, one of which I need to take some pictures of before I can show it to you. Overall, it was a wonderful year. I am looking forward to 2011, and hoping that this will be another year filled with crafting and learning.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-28T08:32:00.000-07:00

Photo by my sweet hubby!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas! We sure did, and we were even blessed to have a white Christmas here in NC. It almost felt like home (except for our families are not here). It started to snow on Christmas night, and the next morning we were in a winter wonderland. It was so pretty the next morning, everything was still and undisturbed. A perfect ending to a wonderful holiday.

Also, thanks to everyone who commented on the giveaway. The winner is...

...#7. Congrats to Annemarie! Send me an email with your address and I'll get it into the mail to you as soon as I can.

Weekend Sewing Resulting in a Giveaway

2010-12-20T10:22:00.001-07:00

I finally caught a crafty bug (that didn't revolve around a knitting project), and decided to honor it by spending the weekend sewing.

I've been inspired by a few checkbook covers (seen here and here) and decided that if I must pay bills, I should probably do it in style. So I whipped up a new checkbook cover! Once it was finished, I decided that I wanted one that would hold the checkbook cover you get from the bank (you know, the plain jane plastic ones) because it holds my stamps as well. So I made a second one, a slightly larger version of the first.

I love them both equally, but really... I only need one. So I've decided to give the other one away to one of you lovely readers (if anyone really wants it)! You just have to promise not to judge my sewing skills to harshly. If it is not a quilt, I really struggle to make it look good.

The one up for grabs is the brown and red one... complete with the most adorable red polka dot lining. It fits a checkbook, very snugly I might add, and adds a little happiness to the boring task of writing checks.

Just leave a comment on this post anytime before Monday, December 27, and I'll draw a winning name at random. Sorry, but no international shipping, which means US residents only.

Merry Christmas!

Winter Sunrise Hat

2010-12-13T13:43:00.001-07:00

I did it~ I finally learned to knit fair isle (or stranded, color work, which ever you prefer). I'm in love! This brings knitting into a whole new light! Being able to work with two colors at once, holding one in each had, is so much fun. Watching a pattern form row upon row is so exciting and I just kept wanting to complete one more row to see how it would look, which makes for a very hard project to put down.

I signed up to take a class at a yarn store (Cozy) in Durham to learn how to do this type of knitting. Even though I had watched several videos, read lots of books and articles on it, I wasn't confident in my skills to try it on my own. Plus, I had never taken a knitting class and figured this was as good of time as any to scratch that off my bucket list.
For the lining, I knit approximately 2" in the green, or until I was out of yarn. Completing the decreases for the top was a slight challenge for me, but I think it stemmed from incorrectly reading the pattern. Once I worked that out, it went along without any more problems.
So, although it is far from perfect, I learned so much from this project... like how to read a pattern, how to knit a lining, how to make a provisional cast on, how to hold the yarn in my right hand, and most importantly how to knit a fair isle project. In the end.... I'm officially addicted!

Raverly Link
Pattern - Winter Sunrise Hat by Elinor Brown, found here for free.
Needles - Knitpicks, nickle plated, 16" circulars, size 5
Yarn - Cascade 220 Sport Superwash, in Gray and Lake Chalean Heather
Date Started - November 9, 2010
Date Finished - November 22, 2010

Comments - It ended up being slightly on the small side. It still fits okay though, but if I were to make this again, I might do a few extra rows at the first to add a little length to cover my ears better. I also changed the crosses so that every row had a gray stitch in the center.

Copy Cat Thermis Cowl

2010-12-05T14:00:00.000-07:00

Back in October, KathrynIvy posted this beautiful cowl. Isn't it gorgeous!? I just couldn't help myself. I immediately purchased the pattern and the exact same yarn, to make a copy cat version of this cowl for me. I know... so very original of me.

It took me just over a week to get this completed, but most of that time I was waiting to find the perfect buttons. This is my first project with buttons, and thus - my first attempt at buttonholes... and I tackled them like a champ! They are not as scary as I thought they would be and in the end, they were actually quite easy. Plus, shopping for buttons is so much fun. I found three that I thought worked well, but couldn't decide on just one. So I asked a random shopper in the store for her opinion. I think it kinda threw her off guard and she responded by telling me she didn't work there. I didn't want to ask the ladies that worked there because one of the buttons was $2.50 per button, and I didn't wan the price to skew their opinion. I settled for the $.65 cent buttons instead. After a day of blocking, I couldn't wait any longer to wear this. I have worn it everyday since. I just love it! (shocker!) The yarn I used is the new Malabrigo Rios. It is so much better than I thought it would be. Seriously, if I could knit with only this yarn, I would. It is just delicious!

I've even had the chance to test it out in the cold weather. It finally snowed here in NC for the first time this season, and this cowl protected me and kept me toasty warm just like it was meant to. I'd have to say this project was a huge success!Raverly Link
Pattern - Thermis Cowl, by Kris Knits
Yarn - Malabrigo Rios, Arco Iris
Needles - US 6
Notes- Cast on 112 for the small size.

Punch Embroidery

2010-12-04T07:21:00.000-07:00

Thanks to my cousin, Carrie, I have a new addiction (heaven knows I need one more). Punch embroidery. Ever heard of it? It is so fun and relaxing, and the end product is super cute. And it makes for a nice side project to take a break from the bigger projects that usually drive me crazy. It is so simple... just punching small loops into fabric to create different designs. When you are done, you have a three-dimensional work of art. I have had this finished for quite some time, but since it was destined to be a present for a special someone, I had to wait to show it off. I purchased a matching frame and removed the glass in the front. That way, the embroidery "pops" out. I don't feel too bad about adding this to my list of crafting hobbies, since it is relatively inexpensive, doesn't take too much time, and creates something that is super cute.

PS - My cousin is also very talented in the quilting and sewing area and even has an online Etsy shop. Go here to check it out.

Fingerless Mittens

2010-12-01T06:04:00.013-07:00

Back in October, my mother came to NC to visit us for the first time. I spent the week with her showing her around the city (trying to convince here that she needs to move here), showing her all of my finished projects, and my WIPS, and you know... all the fun stuff you don't get to do when you live 3,000 miles apart. One day during her visit, she politely pointed out (I think it was a joke at the time, but it hit home) that I hadn't knit anything for my dear sweet husband who puts up with my knitting obsession on a daily basis.

Shame on me. Seriously, what an embarrassment.To rectify the situation, I casted on right away for a pair of fingerless mittens (at his request). Over Memorial Day, while we were browsing in a local yarn store, my husband found this Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Chunky yarn on sale... so we purchased a few skeins with the idea of making him a hat. Later he changed his mind and decided he didn't want a hat, but fingerless mittens instead.

(That is my hand modeling the gloves... just so you don't think the hubby has "girly" hands)

So I found a few patterns that I thought would work for some mittens for him, and he decided on this free pattern. After three days of knitting (just an hour or less each day), I had a finished pair of fingerless mittens.

And a happy husband. Which makes for a happy me! Raverly Link
Pattern - Potluck Wool Mittenettes (free)
Yarn - Debbie Bliss Casmerino Chunky
Needles - Size 8 DPN's
Modifications - I made the brim over the fingers slightly longer than the pattern stated, just to cover my husbands long fingers better. I used a size 8 needle, but wish I would have used a 9 (but didn't have any on hand) to work better with the bulky yarn. I can't remember (I should have written it down) but I believe I cast on 34 sts to accommodate the bulky yarn. Or maybe it was 32 sts.
Over all, I loved this pattern. Super fast and really simple. And this yarn....LOVE LOVE LOVE!

What would you do...

2010-11-18T12:21:00.009-07:00

If the cutest 4 year old (almost) niece that you know, calls you up and specifically asks you to make her a new hat... and could you make one for her adorable brother too? His head is just little.

Well, I'll tell you what I did. I ran to my stash and asked her "What color?"

"Yellow, please."

That night I got straight to work. How could I not. It was the cutest thing ever. I've never had such an adorable request for my homemade goodies. Apparently she was wearing a hat I made a couple of years ago, and it kept getting into her "bybrows". We can't have that now can we.So I found the cutest pattern. It has a stitch that looks like butterflies. It was perfect. It was a little confusing at first to try and figure out what it meant by the floats, but I finally got the hang of it. After that, it was a very quick knit.Butterfly Hat Pattern
Raverly Link
Needles - Size 6 (brim), Size 7 (body of the hat)
Yarn - Vanna's Choice
Modifications - CO 80 sts for a child size head. Knit four butterfly repeats before starting decreases.

For Mr. Ben's hat, I wanted a scrappy look. Anna had requested that I made a red one, but I didn't have any red yarn that looked good with the other colors. I hope she doesn't remember she wanted his to be red. I think it turned out adorable and perfect for Mr. Ben.Raverly Link
Pattern - Scrap Happy Celebration Hat
Yarn - Vanna's Choice in various colors
Needles - Size 5 (brim) size 6 (body of hat)
Modifications - CO 80 sts for a child size hat; each color section is knit for 10 rows. I made the brim extra long so they it could be rolled up, giving him extra room to grow into it.

The best part about these hats.... the "Thank You" call I got when they arrived to their new owners. Seriously, how did I get so lucky as to have the cutest niece and nephew ever?

I think they are happy with the new hats, wouldn't you say.

Clover Tweed Dishcloth

2010-11-01T11:37:00.007-06:00

Another new pattern.
Two colors.
Very happy with the end results.Are you sick of dishcloths yet? Maybe I should focus my attentions on the larger projects that have been on my WIP list forever.

Raverly Link
Pattern: Clover Tweed Dishcloth
Needles: Size 7
Yarn: Lily Sugar n Creme Cotton Yarn

Sixteen Cables Hat

2010-10-11T09:03:00.013-06:00

I'm in love with this hat! Love love love! This pattern was a little difficult for me for two reasons: (1) Sixteen cable repeats are killer on my hands. (2) My first time practicing cables with the needle in the back. That was also a little difficult for my hands as well. This is really supposed to be a slouchy hat, but after reading many reviews of this pattern on Raverly, I was nervous I wouldn't have enough yarn to do the extra slouchy rows, so I omitted them from the pattern. In the end, I had many four yards of yarn left over, and my hat turned out to not be slouchy at all. It is more of a beanie than I had originally planned. I still haven't blocked it so maybe once that is finished it will add a little slouch to it. I adore this yarn! It is oh so soft, has beautiful vibrant colors, and is a complete dream to work with. I'll definitely be adding more of this to the stash in the near future.

Raverly Link
Pattern: 16 Cables Hat
Yarn: Orange Flower Worsted Merino SW, in Sapphire Blue
Needles: US 6 and US 8

Ballband Dishcloth

2010-10-04T07:11:00.008-06:00

Finally, a dishcloth that is not knit in the Grandmother's Favorite pattern. Are you surprised? I've been wanting to make this pattern for a long time and finally got around to it. It is so simple and really fun (I think I'm beginning to enjoy knitting with two colors). I will definitely be making a few more of these, when I'm not busy working on other projects.I slipped the last two stitches to create this really nice looking edges. I actually made a slightly smaller version than what the pattern states. I followed a pattern found on Raverly (here), but if you are not on Raverly, than this is what I did.

Cast on 37 stitches with Color A (when asked to slip stitch, do so purlwise).

RS Row 1: (Color A) Knit until two stitches left, S2 with yarn in back 
WS Row 2: (Color A) P until last two stitches, S2 with yarn in front  
Row 3: (Color B) K6, slip 1, =K5, slip 1= continue between = across to last 6 stitches, K4, S2 with yarn in back  
Row 4: (Color B) P2, K4, YF, slip 1, YB, =K5, YF slip 1, YB=, continue between = across to last 6 stitches, K4, S2, with yarn in front  
Row 5: (Color B) K2, P4, YB, slip 1, YF, =P5, YB, slip 1, YF= continue between = across to last 6 stitches, P4, S2 with yarn in back 
Row 6: (Color B) Repeat Row 4  
Row 7: (Color A) Knit across to last 2 stitches, S2 with yarn in back 
Row 8: (Color A) Purl across to last 2 stitches, S2 with yarn in front  
Row 9: (Color B) K3, Slip 1, =K5, Slip 1=, continue between = across to 3 stitches left, K1, S2 with yarn in back 
Row 10: (Color B) P2, K1, YF, Slip 1, YB, =K5, YF, Slip 1, YB= continue between = across to 3 stitchs left, K1, S2 with yarn in front  
Row 11: (Color B) K2, P1, YB, Slip 1, YF, =P5, YB, Slip 1, YF= Continue between = across to 3 stitches left, P1, S2 with yarn in back 
Row 12: (Color B) Repeat Row 10
Repeat these twelve rows until desired length is reached finishing with rows 1 and 2.

Raverly Link
Pattern: Ballband Dishcloth
Yarn: Peaches n' Creme
Needles: Size 7

Malabrigo - Hurricane Hat

2010-09-19T09:07:00.008-06:00

My very first hat! I've made crochet hats before, but this is my first ever knitted hat! I'm in love (of course)! I wanted something more than just a basic beanie, and found this free pattern that was perfect. I'm right in the middle of a few projects that are taking a while, and wanted something that would be fast and easy. This was perfect! Just what I needed. It took me two nights (you know, just a couple hours after dinner) to make this. Now we just need some cold weather so that I can use it. Although, I won't complain if this nice weather would like to stay for a few more months.Mostly, I am in love with the yarn, Malabrigo, that I used. This stuff if heaven on earth! Seriously, I think I might just start making everything out of Malabrigo. Raverly Link
Yarn - Malabrigo Worsted, Tuscan Sky
Pattern - Hurricane Hat
Needles - Size 7 DPN's

Excuses ...excuses

2010-09-09T08:30:00.008-06:00

I will admit, there has been a serious shortage of crafting going on in my life lately. My excuse. Books.

I like to read... but I usually decide to fill what little free time that I do have with knitting, crochet, or quilting. Even on occasion, scrapbooking. That is the case until I read a good book that I really like. And then when I've finished it, I want to read another, and another... and another. Before I realize it, I have spent all my free time reading, and not knitting.

It all started with the book "Loving Frank", about the mistress of Frank Lloyd Wright. It was really interesting and I quite enjoyed it. So I decided to keep reading. Then, I started reading "Freakonomics" out loud with Dustin at night. He'd always fall asleep and I'd stay up reading because it was so interesting and I couldn't put it down. Once I had finished that, I moved on to "The Hunger Games" - which I really loved! I wanted to read the second book right away, but had to put my name on the waiting list at the library. Why stop there? So I picked up "My Life in France" by Julia Child. I adore her and this book was perfect. Another fast read for me because I was so excited to learn about Julia. By the time I finished, my wait time at the library was up for "Catching Fire". I flew through this one, which means I will eventually have to read it again at a slower pace just to remember what it was about. And now, I'm moving on to the third book in the hunger games series, "Mockingjay", which I bought off Amazon, because I didn't want to have to wait for it at the library again.

After this one, I'm hoping to get back into crafting mode. Fall feels like it is just around the corner, so I need to get cracking if I'd like to have a few new scarfs, gloves, and hats for the season. Not to mention that Christmas is coming faster than I realized, and if I don't hurry, there won't be any home-made gifts this year.

More Catnip Bunnies

2010-08-30T11:47:00.006-06:00

After a few issues with the mail system, these catnip bunnies have (hopefully) found their way to a new home. Are they not just the cutest things you have ever seen!? I just love them, and more importantly, the cats adore them! They are fast becoming the new favorite "go to" toy for my kitties. Hopefully, the kitties who received these will also love them.

The bunny tails are my favorite part!

Raverly Link
Pattern - Catnip Bunnies
Yarn - Red Heart Soft - scraps from a previous project
Needles - Size 4

Hand Dyed Socks

2010-08-26T08:32:00.007-06:00

I finally finished my hand-dyed socks. It took me a while, since I had completely finished one sock in the Sunrise Pattern, only to discover that I really didn't like it. So, I frogged the first completed sock and started again. I opted to use a plain stockinette pattern to help show off the yarn, since that is my favorite part anyway. I'm very pleased with the way they turned out. They fit perfectly and I am absolutely in love with the yarn.

Everyone should have a pair of hand-knit, hand dyed socks ... and a cute kitty bottom to go along with them. I'm blessed to have both.

Raverly Link
Pattern : Socks from the Toe Up - Slip Stitch Heel Basic Sock
Yarn - Hand Dyed (using this tutorial)
Needles - Size 2
Judy's Magic Cast On, Slip Stitch Heel, and Russian Bind-Off
Start Date - June 20, 2010
Finish Date - August 21, 2010

Catnip Bunnies

2010-07-29T14:15:00.015-06:00

At night, we put away all the cat toys. Sometimes, we forget. Around 1am, Sophie usually wakes us up crying and hauling around a toy because she wants to play. It makes for a long night. The other night, I must have missed a toy when they were put away for the night because at 2am, I got a surprise dropped right on my face. This surprise.Yes, isn't it disgusting! So very nasty. I can't bear to through it out though, because the cats love it to death -as is obvious. I really wish you could see just how gross this is, but these pictures just don't give it justice. After having this dropped on my face, yuck-O, I threw it out. No more Mr. Mousy.

Seriously, they lick this mouse, haul it around in their mouth, kick it, bite it, shred it, etc. It is so disgusting. Say your goodbyes.
Since I threw out their favorite toy, it was a requirement that I make them a replacement. I found this adorable knit bunny on Raverly, and decided to try it out. My first knit toy. I was a little confused at first, but the directions are really well written (if you read them all) and once I realized how it was going to work, so genius, I was really excited to finish. I stitched the eyes on in a contrasting color, added a nose and whiskers, and a tail. How cute are these?
After I finished the first bunny (the white one), I gave it to the cats to see if they'd like it. Sure enough - they loved it! They even kept fighting over it. Within five minutes, the poor white bunny had a shredded eye, a hole in his ear, and was slobbered all over. See the damage?So I made a second one. And everyone was happy!Later, I learned that my Aunt's cat had been in a fight and was forced to stay inside to recover. Since I already had all the supplies out and I was on a roll, I made one for her kitty too.
Seriously, they are so simple to make and really fast once you make a few. The tail is my favorite part!When I was finished, I immediately packaged it up, got it ready to go to the post office in the morning and left it on the counter so I wouldn't forget it when I left for work. That night, we put away all the new knit bunnies and went to bed. The next morning - pure mayhem.

The evidence. The cats blamed it on a hungry lion.I re-packed the bunny (who somehow manged to escape unharmed) and mailed it off. The cats were not very happy that I didn't let them have it - but still stuck with the lion story so no one would get punished. I keep finding orange paper shreds around the house, but what I'd really like to find is the so-called Lion.

Free Pattern - Catnip Bunny
Raverly Link
Yarn - scraps of worsted weight acrylic yarn
Needles - size 4

Irish Hiking Scarf

2010-07-26T11:04:00.005-06:00

I originally cast on for this scarf back in February, when it was cold and I was on a major scarf knitting kick. It was when I was learning to do cables and thought this pattern would be a great way to practice. I was right.

Then it started to get warm, and I put it aside. I really want to get this finished before winter rolls around again so that I have a new scarf to keep me warm. Pattern - Irish Hiking Scarf
Raverly Link
Yarn - Universal Yarns Deluxe Worsted Tones in Wine Dance

White Dishcloths!

2010-07-20T11:53:00.008-06:00

Lots and lots of white dishcloths, per a request! I have been busy making dishcloths out of white, white and more white. After I made the first one out of my favorite pattern, I realized that the white yarn really needed a more interesting pattern. So I whipped up the following patterns.

Flying GeeseBasket Weave - I don't have a pattern for this one, but I cast on 35, did five rows of seed stitch, then I started the pattern by doing k1, p1,k1,p1,k1, k5, p5,k5,p5,k5, k1, p1,k1,p1,k1. And then do the opposite for the next row. (knit first five sts in seed stitch, the p5,k5,p5,k5,p5, last 5 sts in seed stitch). I did six rows before switching the stitches, thus making the basket weave pattern. I think it turned out a little too small, maybe next time I'd do 6 or 7 sts per square instead.

I found this pattern, which is very similar with the exception of the border and # of sts. You get the idea though.Waffle Knit - Another absolute favorite pattern of mine.
Bark Sedge - a simple pattern repeated (row 2) as such:

Chain 33.
Row 1: Skip 2 chains (counts as single crochet), work 2 double crochet in next chain, *skip 2 chains, work
(single crochet, 2 double crochet) in next chain; repeat from * to last 3 chains, skip 2 chains, single crochet
in last chain – 10 (single crochet, 2 double crochet) pattern repeats.
Row 2: Chain 1 (counts as single crochet), turn, 2 double crochet in first single crochet, *skip 2 double
crochet, (single crochet, 2 double crochet) in next single crochet; repeat from * across, single crochet in
turning chain.

I finished this one off with a simple HDC border. This pattern is actually very similar to the pattern I used on the placemats I made. I actually had a few other "new to me" patterns that I was going to try, but never got around to it. Maybe sometime in the near future.

After all those white dishcloths, I decided to knit a couple for my kitchen. Because, we all know, I'm addicted to this pattern!

Flying Geese Dishcloths

2010-06-28T12:20:00.007-06:00

I decided to switch it up a little in the knit dishcloths area and branched out and tried a new pattern. And guess what, I actually liked it! Let's hope the recipients do as well.

This pattern is called "flying geese", which is based on a quilt pattern! The flying geese quilt block was used during times of slavery. The block was used as "a signal to follow the direction of the flying geese as they migrated north in the spring. Most slaves escaped during the spring; along the way, the flying geese could be used as a guide to find water, food and places to rest. The quilt maker had flexibility with this pattern as it could be used in any quilt. It could also be used as a compass where several patterns are used together." Pretty cool, hunh? If you would like to learn more about other quilt blocks and the symbols behind them, check out this website.

I used Peaches & Creme cotton yarn (love that stuff!) in pink and white colors, knit on size 7 needles.

Pattern can be found here for free.

Raverly link.

Cross Over Stitch Crochet Edging Tutorial

2010-06-15T11:57:00.003-06:00

Remember way back when I showed you a receiving blanket with a new edging? Well, I'm finally getting around to posted a tutorial on this edging. Better late than never, I guess. I like to call this stitch the CW stitch, since I learned it from my Aunt Carolyn. But I guess you could call it the cross over stitch, since it looks like little "x's" crossing over each other.

I really love this stitch, probably it is my new favorite! It is super simple and extremely fast! One single round and your done!I learned this pattern by watching, without a pattern to read, so I'm going to do my best to make one to share with you all. I hope it make sense. If not, you can always email or leave a comment and I'll do my best to explain. You can visit my previous crochet edging tutorial here for instructions on how I make my receiving blankets and what type of yarn, needles, etc. are necessary to make one. Now for the pattern~

First - SC in any stitch to get started. Next - Chain 3 (or chain 4 if you'd like a picot edge to be a little more distinct. Or if you would like to just have the cross stitch with out the picot edging, skip this step. You can always add a second round with a shell stitch, puff stitch, or any other edging that you wish).SC in the previous stitch.Next - skip the next stitch and SC in the next stitch. Chain 3. SC in the previously skipped stitch.Continue doing this until you have gone all the way around. SC, chain 3, SC in previous stitch, skip next stitch, SC in next stitch, chain 3.... you get the idea.

It should look something like this.A view of the back.That's it! Easy peasy! Super simple, super fast, and super cute! Happy crocheting!

Add it to the Stash

2010-06-07T11:04:00.006-06:00

Malabrigo Sock - Terracotta

Oh so very yummy!

The Last Knit

2010-06-05T18:36:00.002-06:00

Have you seen this yet? Super cute!

Slip Stitch Heel Socks

2010-05-29T10:58:00.008-06:00

My second pair of completed socks! What do you think? I kinda LOVE them! Actually, I really really love them! I've been wearing them non-stop since I finished them. For these socks, I learned how to do the Magic Loop Technique on one circular needle! So much easier than the DPN's I was working on. I used the same cast on method (Judy's magic cast on) and increased until I had 66 stitches. Plain ole' stockinette until the heel where I tried the Slip Stitch Heel. I like this heel, probably not as much as I liked the Sherman short row heel, but it is a lot thicker and still comfy. It just takes a lot of counting, which sometimes I mess up on. I ended with a 3x3 ribbing for the cuff. Yarn - Cascade Heritage Paints - Wild Roses
Needles - Size 2.75 40" circular
Raverly Link

Blogger's Quilt Festival - Spring 2010

2010-05-24T09:17:00.007-06:00

I have been looking forward to the Quilt Festival for a while now. I have been waiting to show off my newest finished quilt until this week because it is my new favorite!

I used the fabric line "Amelia" from Timeless Treasures. This fabric is a couple of years old but when I first saw it, I knew I needed it. So I bought up enough to make a quilt, although I had no idea what pattern I wanted to use it for. After a few years of going back and forth on designs, I finally settled on a simple snowball quilt. I wanted something that showed off the fabric as much as possible, and the snowball block seemed to work best.Each center block is 7.5" square with 2.5" square corner brown squares. I added a 1" brown border and a 5" leaf border to finish it off. I used the remaining scraps to bind the quilt. I love scrappy bindings! Overall it is a perfect snuggle quilt for the couch.

For the backing I used what I had left over of the prints and brown fabric. For the quilting, I did an all over stippling with loops in a teal green thread. A little different from the normal stippling which made the quilting a little more interesting. It took me a few years to finally decide what to make with this fabric but I'm so glad that I waited. I love how this turned out! It is definitely my newest favorite quilt!

If you'd like to make a snowball quilt, here is a great tutorial that can help.

If you haven't already, go check out Amy's blog and see all of the other quilts that have been entered into the quilt festival!

Dustin's Socks

2010-05-19T12:23:00.006-06:00

When I first learned to knit socks, Dustin informed me that he definitely needed a pair. Who am I to deprive my loving husband of hand knit socks! So I ordered some yarn that I thought he would love. Which he did. But he wanted to pick out his own.

Boy does he have expensive taste! This yarn has cashmere in it! I'm super excited to knit with this. Now I just need him to find a pattern, and hopefully one that I can handle.
Yarn - Pagewood Farm Hand Dyed Sock Yarn- Alyeska
Color - Meadow
Purchased at - Hillsborough Yarn Shop

Pillow Covers

2010-05-17T10:33:00.004-06:00

Previously, we had these red colored suede/microfiber pillows on our couch. They were really nice, but so hard to keep clean. Dustin decided that I needed to make covers so that we could wash them easier. He even made it a priority to visit my favorite fabric store and picked out fabric all by himself. What a guy! I actually finished these a couple of weeks ago, but I am just now getting around to taking the photos. I used a really simple tutorial found here. I think it took me less than an hour to make all three of these covers. The larger pillows are 16' square and the smaller green check pillow is a 14' square pillow. It was actually so simple and I love the new pillows. I think I might make a few more in the future just to give us more options. Maybe next time I'll try a little applique on the front of one!

Hand Dyed Yarn

2010-04-27T12:51:00.017-06:00

I am so very excited about this yarn! "I must scream my excitement from the top of someplace very high!" (name that movie?) Seriously, I just can't stop thinking about this yarn and how much fun it was to dye and how much I love it!

I used this tutorial on how to dye yarn with Easter Egg Dying Kits by KathrynIvy. I highly recommend this tutorial if you are thinking about dying yarn at all. The instructions are so clear and very well written so you don't miss a beat.

After Easter, I purchased two of the egg dying kits when they were on clearance. If I'd had known how much fun this would be and that I would be totally in love, I would have bought all of the kits I could. Look out next year, I'll be ready!

I purchased some yarn from Knitpicks, the bare kind that you can dye yourself. Again, if I'd only known how much I'd love this, I would have bought way more than one skein. I mixed up all the tablets, because I wanted to see the colors before I decided, and then I started dying the yarn. I wanted to do a blue, purple, green color scheme, but then I ran out and decided to throw in some orange to the mix.

I steamed it, rinsed, it and then had to wait patiently while it dried. That was by far the toughest part. The next day after it was completely dry, I wound it into a center pull ball. I am absolutely in love with this yarn! I love love love it! The knitpicks yarn is super soft and the best part is that it is superwash wool.I am just head over heels in love with this yarn! I love how some of the yarn didn't get as much color as other places, adding little subtle changes of color throughout. I can't wait to start knitting with this! It turned out way better than I imagined it would.

Break Time

2010-04-25T18:53:00.004-06:00

Why is it that every time I start a quilt, get it all basted and ready to go, the cats immediately steak it as theirs? Sophie is so spoiled, I hardly ever kick her off, I just work on a different project. But I think it is time that this quilt was finished and ready to be used. Quilting will resume as soon as I can break it to Sophie that I need the quilt she is napping on.

Mas Hilo...

2010-04-20T14:37:00.001-06:00

Or, more yarn, if you prefer the English translation.

I received a gift card to knitpicks for my birthday (thank you to the Morawetz family) and decided that I needed some sock yarn. I read in my book "Socks from the Toe-Up" that sock yarn does not count as stash, so I felt no guilt in purchasing this yarn.

I got this skein of Ivy color Stroll Kettle Dyed for a pair of socks I'm going to make for Dustin.A skein of the new Stroll Tonal yarn in this very happy green yarn called springtime. So super soft, I can't wait to start a project with this. And just because I am feeling super adventurous, I purchased a skein of Superwash Merino Bare because I am going to try my hand and yarn dying! I found this great tutorial here and when all the egg dying kits were on sale I purchased one just so I could try this. I can't wait!

Compelted Pair

2010-04-18T13:56:00.006-06:00

I now have a completed pair of hand knit socks! Are they not just the most spectacular thing you ever saw? Okay, maybe that is a little too much, but I think they are pretty fantastic!

I decided that I liked the short row heel, and so I ripped out the first sock I made and re-did the heel to match. I like them better this way. I am going to try the slip-stitch heel on the next pair I make because I liked that too. My one and only complaint about these socks is that I was too lazy to make sure the stripes matched on each sock. They are only off by a couple rows and I didn't think it would bother me, but it does. Next time I make a stripe sock I will make sure they match.

PS - It is extremely difficult to take pictures of socks while you are wearing them, so these photos are all credit to Dustin.

Ask... and Ye Shall Receive.

2010-04-13T19:39:00.010-06:00

In this case, you must ask... and then be super super patient. My sister randomly mentioned to me that she was in desperate need of some homemade dishcloths and needed to go to the store to get some yarn."Hold up! I'll make you some! Seriously, I'd love to make some for you!"

This conversation took place during my all-I-want-to-do-is-knit-this-dishcloth-pattern stage. You know... like this time, and this time, and this time. Oh and there was this time when I went crazy. It is an obsession. Slowly it has started to find it's place mixed in with other projects and is slowing becoming a slight obsession, on the verge of becoming normal.

So as I began to knit other things and start to experiment with new knitting ideas and techniques, the dishcloth extravaganza got set aside. As did my promise to make some for my sister. Bless her for her massive amounts of patience. She waited and waited, and then waited some more. Today, they finally arrived.I was able to make her eight dishcloths, seven of the grandmothers favorite pattern, and one in the waffle knit pattern. I'm guessing you can tell which is my favorite.

I also included two mini-dishcloths for my niece. She has this cute pink play kitchen that she just adores. I figured she could use a few dishcloths as well. For these, I increased until there were 25 stitches and then started the decreases. They turned out adorable and she apparently loves them. When she realized they were for her, they stopped everything, and had to go wash dishes. How cute is that?
Chardell, I'm so sorry that it took me forever to get these to you. It is a good thing you have a big supply of patience. You must have been blessed with a little extra since you were bound to be my sister. Love ya!

PS- Sophie would like you to know that she helped in the photographing of all these dishcloths. She had to get in one picture somehow and figured her white paws could add a little something special to this otherwise boring photo of a bunch of dishcloths.

Stash for Raverly

2010-04-06T09:53:00.009-06:00

Have you noticed that Webs is having a huge anniversary sale? Did you see all the beautiful yarn on sale? Did you see the fantastic prices? Have you ordered any?

I'm desperately trying to avoid that site in hopes that I can avoid purchases in obscene amounts. To try and help me realize that I already have a lot of projects patiently waiting for me, I been organizing my stash. Look at all this great yarn I have waiting to be knit into something fantastic!

I have three skeins of this lovely eggplant color of Valley Yarns Prescott Alpaca yarn. Isn't it delicious!? I have plans to turn it into a scarf like this.This yarn, Universal Yarn Deluxe Worsted Tones, is already on the needles being turned into an Irish Hiking Scarf. I love the color of this yarn and the wool will really make for a nice warm scarf when I'm finished. I have three skeins of this Classic Elite One Fifty, which I have no idea what I'm going to use it for. Maybe a shawl, or a scarf (I really like scarfs!), or.... I'm open to any ideas? Oooohh, and this! This lovely hank of Malabrigo!!! Isn't it just delicious!? I just love it and will definitely be adding more of this yarn to my stash, hopefully soon. I ordered one skein of the Tuscan Sky color and I absolutely adore it. I have plans to use this to make a hat. Not sure which one yet, there are just so many cute patterns to choose from.One thing that I have noticed is missing from my stash is lots and lots of sock yarn. Maybe I should just stop by Webs for a few minutes to have see if they have any good sales of sock yarn? Maybe? It is just so tempting.

First Pair of Socks!

2010-03-29T14:12:00.014-06:00

Yes... I have learned to knit socks! SOCKS! Can you believe it? Trust me, it was not an easy task for me, but I finally managed to get the hang of it.

I have wanted to learn to knit socks for a really long time. For my birthday, my mom gave me two books on how to knit socks (this one, and this one). I decided to start by learning the "toe-up" technique because, well, I just wanted to. Casting on was really difficult, and I almost gave up before I even started. After a few phones calls to my knitting expert friend Jen, I decided to try the "Judy's Magic Cast On" method. This video was super super helpful. A little obnoxious but it really helped me to learn.
Once I got past the cast on, it was smooth sailing. That was until I reached the heel. Yikes. It took me a good week before I even attempted to try this. Partly because the pattern said to "work off the 66 stitches on the second needles" then the first row said to knit 37. I was so confused as to what to do with the other stitches. Another phone call to my friend Jen. Expert advice = Just do it. Don't think about the numbers, just do what it says. Sure enough, it all worked out.

Continue knitting until it is the length you want. I ended with a 2x2 ribbing on the cuff for about an inch and used a Russian Bind-Off to end. Then... I tried on my sock, and it was slightly too big. Oops. Too big by about an inch. Double oops. Too big that it made the heel up my leg instead of snug around my heel like it should be. Triple oops. And there is a slight hole (can you see it?) that I'm not sure what went wrong. Oops all around.
Okay, not a big deal, I told myself. These are practice (learn how to) socks and I don't expect them to be perfect. So I started another sock. Same yarn, because even though they are practice socks I'd still like to be able to maybe wear them around the house. On the second sock, I tried the Sherman Short Row Heel. I struggled a bit with this one and decided to just use the pattern that was in the book, which required wraps and turns. It worked out great. Only this sock is slightly too small (width wise). But it fits comfortably and I really like the heel.

So...new plan. I'm going to rip out the first sock (just to the sole part) and make it fit so that it isn't so large, maybe try the short row heel on it instead of the slip stitch heel, and then I will have a completed pair of practice socks.

I think I might be addicted. All I want to do is buy sock yarn and learn to make different patterns, aside from the basic sock pattern that I used.
Raverly link.
Yarn: Sensations Bamboo & Ewe Pattern:Purple & Gray (purchased at Joann's)
Needles: DPNS size 2 (2.75)

Fetching - Fingerless Mittens

2010-03-20T16:10:00.008-06:00

I have decided that 2010 is going to by year of knitting. I've made a personal goal to learn new techniques, try new yarns, learn to knit in the round, etc., basically to step out of my comfort zone of making millions of dishcloths.

First thing I wanted to learn to do was make cables. When I saw this project I knew that it would be perfect for me to start. I had just learned to knit in the round and was anxious to keep practicing. I had read a few reviews on Raverly that this was an excellent beginner cabling project.For these mitts, I used one skein of Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran in red (#610). The skein that my DH bought for me almost a year ago. I think it was about time that I found a perfect use for it. This pattern was perfect, since the yarn used to make these is Debbie Bliss and it calls for exactly one skein.
I cast on the first mitt during the first week of January. Within a few weekends, I had a completed pair. They are just perfect and have proven to be a life saver at my office where it is always freezing. I can still type and keep my hands cozy warm. Overall, I love these! I most likely will be making a few more sets for next winter.

My Raverly Page

* I followed the pattern (found here) with the exception of the picot edging. I wasn't sure I really liked it all that much so I just bound off normally to end these. I do think that they are a little short on the fingers and maybe next time I might add one more round of cables at the end. But then again, I have practically worn these out and didn't seem to mind the way they are.

Well...Hello there!

2010-03-15T12:32:00.008-06:00

That was a nice two months break from blogging. I feel refreshed and ready to go! I'm excited to be back. I have some projects I've finished that I've been dying to show off. There is only so many times my hubby can live through my "ta-da" show and tells. Bless his big heart!

This scarf has become my new favorite. I love the colors, the yarn, the pattern, everything! I have worn it basically every day since I finished it. It makes me happy - all those fun, vibrant colors!
The pattern is from Brooklyn Tweed (found here). My friend Jen made this scarf a while ago, and ever since I have been dying to try it. I am not such a fan of the Noro, well, I like it a lot, but it is just too scratchy for me. Instead of Noro, I used Nashua Handknits Wooly Stripes yarn - two skeins each of the purple passion and rolling thunder.
I just love the color changes. The first day this yarn arrived at my door, I immediately sat down and cast on for this scarf. Then I knit for 3+ hours straight, without any breaks, which turned out to be not smart. I couldn't knit for two days after that, and even then my arms were still pretty sore. Hard lesson learned. I was just so excited to get started on this scarf and with every color change I wanted to keep going to see what color was next.

I really enjoyed making this scarf. It was fast, simple, and the end product is just beautiful. I think I might even make another one - sometime in the future, and this time I'll be sure to take lots of breaks. Maybe next time I'll try four different color waves instead of just the two.

My Raverly Link for this project.

Blogging Break

2010-01-18T09:31:00.004-07:00

I've decided to take a short break from the blogs for a while. I've got a lot going on in my life right now, and too much stress. Hopefully after some time off, I'll be able to regroup and be back at full speed.

And if all goes as planned, I'll be back with lots of projects to show.

Until then...

Easy Mistake Stitch Scarf

2010-01-13T14:27:00.011-07:00

My first finished project of twenty-ten (doesn't that just sound weird?) and I'm in LOVE! I absolutely love this scarf! It is definitely my new favorite!I have had this pattern saved in my "to-make" pattern folder ever since I first saw it on the Purl Bee. It looked simple enough for my beginner skill level yet interesting enough to make a beautiful scarf. It really is a super simple pattern that goes quickly. The yarn I used is utterly fantastic! Seriously! It is just gorgeous! I wish I could use this yarn for every project! It is Manos Silk Blend in color 3029. So super soft and oh so lovely! For this project, I used two hanks or 300 yards. I knit this scarf of a size 10 needles (my new circular knitpicks needles to be exact!). My finished scarf measures approximately 5 inches wide by 60 inches long.I would have liked to have added maybe one more skein to make it slightly longer, but I think the two skeins worked out okay and it is still plenty long to tie it the way that I like. Plus I loved it so much I couldn't wait much longer to finish it!
Raverly Project Link.

Merry Christmas to Me!

2010-01-09T18:44:00.009-07:00

Guess what I got for Christmas?

Knitpicks needles! Both the straight and the interchangeable circular sets of the Harmony Wood Knitpicks needles to be exact. I'm already using them and I Love Them!

This is going to be my year for knitting!! I can feel it!

Stars Quilt

2010-01-04T07:57:00.000-07:00

The quilt has been gifted so I can officially show you all what it looks like. At first, I wasn't really liking this quilt. I had gone back and forth on patterns and finally decided on this one... which I ended up loving. I was torn between keeping this for myself and giving it away, but in the end it made it safely on a plane to it's new owner.
It is a relatively simple pattern which makes things a little more enjoyable, with the exception of the flying geese. Not that they are difficult, just that I don't enjoy making them...at all! The finished quilt measures approximately 59 x 72 - perfect for a snuggle quilt.
For the backing I used the left over fabric that I had from the stars. No particular rhyme or reason to it, but I actually kinda like it. I did an all over stippling on this quilt. Mostly because I was too lazy to do straight line quilting, and party because I really like it. The binding is the dark navy fabric and I also had time to make a tag for it.
The best part about this quilt - my dear sweet husband helped me with this. He helped in picking out the fabric, the pattern (until I changed it at the last minute), he even helped me with lining up blocks and ironing for me...and he helped with taking photos of it. If it wasn't for him, I most likely wouldn't have gotten this finished on time. What a sweetheart he is!

I hope the new owners enjoy it.

2009 Finished Projects

2010-01-03T13:25:00.002-07:00

I can't believe that it is already 2010! It seems like just yesterday I was counting my finished projects for the year. I definitely do not have as many finished projects that were completed in 2009 as were completed in 2008, but I am pretty proud of the ones that I did get finished. It was a crazy year. Lots of things happened (several good things and several bad things), and I must admit that I am excited for a new year! I hope this year will be fantastic! One for the books!

And hopefully filled with lots of completed projects! Happy New Year!

Check Two More Off the List

2009-12-31T19:00:00.009-07:00

I know I'm cutting it close, but I'm just proud that I got them done in 2009. I finished 6 of the 9 projects I had on my list to get completed by the end of the year. Quite an accomplishment for me, so I'm kinda proud.

I can't show you one of these yet, since it is a gift that hasn't been delivered yet. But I promise all will be revealed soon enough. Here is a sneak peak just to prove that it did in fact get finished.The second finished project for the Joy in the New Year Challenge, is a receiving blanket that I started back in...umm...May. Yes, this has been sitting around collecting dust for too long. It was about time that it got finished. I used a new edging for this one that is super simple and looks really pretty. Another bonus to this edging... you only have to do one round of it. I suppose you could do two rounds if you'd like and just leave the picot off, but I kinda like it the way it is. Fast, simple, and really pretty.
It feels great to get all these UFO's completed and out of the way. Now I don't have to feel guilty about starting another project. Thank you to Jacquie for all the inspiration and motivation to get these projects finished.

PS. Happy New Year! 2009 was kinda a hard year, but it did have its positive moments. I'm looking forward to a new year filled with new adventures. Thank you to all of you who actually read this, and for all your lovely comments. I enjoy each and every one of them.

Toasty!

2009-12-16T10:37:00.009-07:00

Another finished project for the Joy in the New Year Challenge! Number 4! Whoo hoo!

When I saw this pattern, I figured it would be a great learning project for me to tackle how to knit in the round - on double points! It took me a few tries, but I finally got the hang of it and I must admit... I Love knitting in the round!!

The pattern, created by Leslie Friend, says to cast on 34, but I cast on 38 because my gauge was off. They fit great, just like a glove should, or in this case, fingerless mittens. I believe I used a size 7 dpn.I used some yarn that I had originally purchased to make a hat (crocheted) but never got around to it. It is a nice blend of wool and cotton which makes it oh so soft and warm! I only used one skein for both of these mitts (about 50 grams) so I need to come up with something to make out of the other one.

I Love Fabric So Much...

2009-12-11T16:04:00.005-07:00

That I took my 70+ year old boss with me to the fabric store while we were out on an inspection!!!!

Oh, the things I will do for 10 minutes of being surrounded by fabric goodness!

P.S. I got some really good deals on some cute fabric, but I can't share it just yet. Hopefully soon.

To My Anonymous Commenter

2009-12-09T17:04:00.006-07:00

Here is the stitch I used to make this blanket! If you make one, I'd love to see.

Foundation chain - Multiple of 6 sts + 1

Row 1: 5 DC in 4th ch from hook, *skip 2 ch, 1 SC in net ch, skip 2 ch, 5 DC in next ch, repeat from * ending 1 SC in last ch. Turn

(I just picked up the next color as I turned each row, not cutting the previous color and worked them up so that I didn't have a gazillion ends to weave in)

Row 2: 3 ch, 2 DC in first sc, *skip 2 dc, 1 SC in next dc (the center dc of 5), skip 2 dc, 5 DC in next sc repeat * ending 3 DC in 1 ch. Turn

Row 3: 1 ch, skip first 3 DC, *5 DC in next sc, skip 2 DC, 1 sc in next dc (the center dc of 5), skip 2 dc, repeat from * ending 1 sc in 3rd of 3 ch, turn.

Repeat rows 2 & 3 until desired length.

Super simple, fast, but oh so mind numbing. Beautiful end results though which makes it all worth it.

Best of Luck!

Mr. Benjamin's Blanket

2009-12-03T16:15:00.000-07:00

I have been waiting and waiting and waiting for this to arrive to it's new owner before I could post pictures here. I'm sure that he has been waiting and waiting for me to finish this, so I guess we are even.
Poor little guy, he had to wait a few months (or several) for me to kick it into gear and get this finished. Well, it finally happened... and I am in love with the end product! I don't know what took me so long. Okay, I do know what took me so long. See all of those rows? Each stitch is the same thing over, and over, and over.... which means it is very mind numbing. I got half way through this months before his due date and then I just stopped (i.e. I started this in April of 09 and didn't finish it until Nov. 20, 09. I'm a slacker!). I knew I needed to get it finished but I just couldn't force myself to work on it. But I finally did, and it is finished! YAY!!! This is just a simple shell stitch pattern (can be found in this book) with an H crochet hook. I changed colors every row, alternating between the three so that I didn't have to weave in any ends. I did a simple DC edging around it to hide all the color changes. This is made with Red Heart Soft yarn in navy, tangerine, and white. I'm not sure of the size because I forgot to measure it before I sent it off. I used two skeins of each color and just worked the pattern until they were gone.

I hope Mr. Benjamin likes it and that it helps to keep him warm through the crazy cold Utah winter.

PS - Are you excited to finally see something crocheted on this site? It has been a while. Plus, this is number three on the list of UFO's to finish before the end of the year. Only six more to go!

Beginner Scarf Finished!

2009-11-28T13:41:00.010-07:00

I'm on a roll! This is the second project finished in the Joy in the New Year Challenge. I actually finished this last week, but I'm just getting around to taking photos of it.

I started this scarf last February. Yes, I'm ashamed to admit it, but it really has been that long. I'm just glad that I finally got it finished. It really only took, me a couple of hours to finish this once I sat down and decided to finish it. Amazing how that happens!
I used three skeins of Patons SWS in the Natural Geranium. I love this yarn! It is a little bit scratchy but I think it works great for a scarf, and is super warm.
I didn't have a pattern for this, I just cast on (I think) 45 stitches, and then knit across. The next row, I knit three and purl to the last three stitches where I knit three. Simple. Easy.Great for practicing and beginners. I think I did about ten rows of garter stitch to start and end. That's it! I love the way it turned out and really want to start another one, but I think I might try to finish a few more UFO's before starting a new project.

One Down...

2009-11-16T10:11:00.006-07:00

I finished one project for the Joy in the New Year Challenge. Yes, I realize that I started with the simplest one (it really only took me 20 minutes to finish) but it is done and that is one more thing off my UFO list! And it frees up the knitting needles so that I can start another one, only after I finish all these other UFO's first, of course.Yipee! One down, 8 more to go.

Joy In the New Year Challenge

2009-11-06T18:53:00.000-07:00

Jacquie is hosting a Challenge - Joy in the New Year. At first, I really wasn't going to join, mostly because I was scared to count all of my unfinished projects. Then I decided that it was better to take on the challenge and hopefully get one UFO finished rather than none at all.

So I took stock of all my UFO's (at least the ones I can think of- I didn't actually hunt them down) and I have 9 unfinished projects that I would like to get done before next year. NINE! That is a lot considering I only have a couple of months to get them finished, but I am hopeful. I did include one project that I actually haven't even started yet but it must be finished by the end of the year. But I also included one project that I can get finished in an hour. Something to give me a boost to keep going when I need it. Wish me luck!
Go here if you'd also like to join.

Soiree Charm Square Quilt

2009-11-05T15:06:00.005-07:00

I finished another quilt. This one is also a quilt that I will be keeping for me! Now I have two quilts that were made especially for me by me! I'm so spoiled, I know!
I really liked this pattern from when I made it the first time, and decided that I'd also like I quilt for me. So I used two charm square packs of Soiree by Moda and whipped this quilt out in no time. It went super fast since I already knew how big I wanted it and did a lot of chain piecing which made the process faster. The final quilt measures 58x80 approximately (I actually think it shrunk up quite a bit after washing.)

For the backing, I used a light green Kona Cotton. Plain. Very plain. I had two charm squares left over, so I threw them in the mix to add a little something. And I kinda like it!

Since I normally end by saying "I LOVE IT", I should probably confess that I didn't love this quilt. After I got the top pieced and the quilt basted, I wasn't sure if I was totally in love with it. I decided to quilt it anyway. I did a basic stippling since I just did a straight line quilting on my last quilt and wanted to mix it up a little. I got about 25% through the quilting and decided I really didn't like it at all. In fact I didn't like it! I set it aside for a few days and debated weather to become best friends with the seam ripper or just keep going. After a few more days, I decided to just finish it and at least get some use out of it. I think I decided it was the colors, they just weren't working for me. So I finished it...pouting the whole time, and I threw it in the washer and dryer. As I pulled it out of the dryer, I just started to smile because I was so very happy with what I was seeing. I laid it out on the floor and just sat and stared at it for ever. I LOVE IT!!

My conclusion - the best part of quilting-- the crinkle goodness! It can change a quilt!

A New Favorite Pattern (or a close second)

2009-10-23T12:03:00.012-06:00

I think I might just have a new favorite dishcloth pattern. Or maybe just a second favorite. I got the pattern for free here and I must say I LOVE it! Super fast, fun, simple, and so very cute. I just love all the ridges -- super scrubby!It was nice to have a break from the grandmother's favorite dishcloths pattern that I make, but I couldn't resist making a few more, I just love that pattern.
*I think there was a total of twelve in this batch.

Quilts at the North Carolina State Fair

2009-10-22T16:38:00.006-06:00

Last weekend, Dustin and I went to the North Carolina State Fair. It was quite the event! So much to see and do. Of course, the first thing I did was find my way to the quilt entries. They had the quilts set up on racks that turned but they had a fair worker that had to sit there and flip through all the quilts. One at a time...very slowly... while me and some other ladies sat and took photos. They were pretty far away so you couldn't really see much of the details on the quilts or the quilting, but at least you could see them. I must say I was kind of disappointed that you couldn't see all of them lined up, but I understand why they had it set up the way they did. I don't know if I'd like that many people touching a quilt I worked hard on. I think I sat there for thirty minutes while the lady flipped through all the quilts.

These are just a few of my favorites. To see more, check out my flickr page. I know they are not the best pictures in the world but they are the best I could do with the crowd, the lighting, and my little point and shoot camera.

I think this cathedral window quilt was my absolute favorite. Can you imagine how long this took? I definitely do not have that much patience. It was stunning. The lady that made this, also made the eyes for all the fishes. Super cute. And close up you can see that each fish is really detailed with seams that look like gills. Very impressive and another favorite of mine.

I just loved this one! Super cute.

One day....one day, I will learn how to make one of these. They are so amazing!

Mother Goose Nursery Rhyme

2009-10-18T13:15:00.008-06:00

My mom made this quilt for a friend who is having a baby but sent it to me to quilt it for her. This is the second one that I have quilted for her, and I must say, I feel so honored that she would even consider me good enough to quilt them for her. Thanks mom for letting me do this, I really had fun with it. Of course, I did warn her that I am not a professional at all and if she doesn't like it she would have to unpick all of it. She just wanted a simple stippling for it, but I decided to try something new. I stuck with the stippling but I added some loops to it. I must say this might be a new favorite of mine. Super easy and fun! I think it turned out super cute! And the best part, she chose flannel for the backing! I just love flannel! And it was a super cute gingham - a favorite of my moms!

Blogger's Fall Quilt Festival

2009-10-13T15:37:00.012-06:00

I participated in this quilt festival last April when Amy organized it. I had so much fun looking through all the blogs of everyone who had also participated. Seriously, there is so much inspiration out there. So many talented quilters! Go here to see all the great quilts for this years festival.

Park City Girl has organized another quilt festival. My favorite quilt is a new one. So new, that I just finished it! I have been working on this for a while and finally got it all put together. I am totally and head over heels in love with Moda's fabric line "nest". I originally made a quilt for my sister-in-law's wedding with this fabric. I loved it so much, that I purchased more to make a quilt for me.

(*just a side note-- one of the sponsors of the Quilt Festival is Wish Upon a Quilt, a local quilt shop here in Raleigh. This store is fantastic! I love it! This is also the place that I purchased all the fabric for this quilt. And it was all on sale! How great is that? If you are ever in Raleigh, NC you must stop by this shop. The ladies are super friendly, the fabric is fantastic, and prices are competitive.)

Inspiration for this pattern came from many different quilters. I have seen this pattern several times on Flickr and knew that I would eventually make one for me because I just loved it. This fabric was perfect for this pattern.
For the construction of the quilt, I used three charm square packs and about four yards of white fabric. I made them into half-square triangles and then placed them into the pattern. I even took the time to pin them so that the points would match up perfectly (most of them did, others not so well) and I must say it was worth the extra time that it took to make sure they matched up. I also added a five inch border around the edge to tie it all together (and to use up the rest of the white fabric. Let's just say, this white fabric is not my favorite and I didn't want any scraps left over.)

For the backing I used the paisley pattern from the fabric line. I added the remaining blocks that I didn't use for the front. What else was I going to use them for? Plus it makes the back a little more interesting.
To quilt it, I did a 1/4 straight quilting along the edges of each diamond (colors and white). On the border, I did a free motion quilting pattern with loops. (Sorry, no close up pictures of that).The binding is a teal green print from the line, also a favorite. After I finished it, I immediately curled up on the couch with it and watched a movie. It is perfect! Final measurements are about 65x80. Perfect for snuggling! I LOVE this quilt.

The best part -- I finally have a quilt made by me just for me!

Chalkboard Love!

2009-10-10T19:41:00.013-06:00

I got this mirror at Wal-Mart for $2 on clearance. I came home painted it, messed it up, scraped it off, and re-painted it and now...a chalkboard.

It's new home on the wall. Perfect for writing love notes, reminders, or even the grocery list!

Kitchen Towels

2009-10-05T10:30:00.000-06:00

I got this fabric from Jo-Ann's when it was on the sale rack a while ago, not really knowing what I should do with it. (I was in one of those moods where you really need to buy something but don't want to break the bank.)

So I finally pulled it out, ironed it, and measured it the size of a kitchen towel. I sewed a quarter inch seam around all the edges and Viola! New kitchen towels! This is another project that took less than an hour to make. I actually think this took less than thirty minutes! And the best part is that it cost me less than two dollars to make these!

Quilting Will Resume...

2009-10-02T10:34:00.000-06:00

after nap time is done!I am getting close though! If only I could keep the cats off it long enough to get finished.

Coasters

2009-09-30T10:22:00.010-06:00

Ever since we moved to North Carolina we have become acquainted with this thing called condensation. I never understood why people had coasters, or better yet.. actually used them. Seriously, condensation is not a problem in Utah.Well, after six months of using napkins, paper towels, or placemats to keep our drinks from leaving water rings on my table, I finally made some coasters. And I must say, I Love Them! Perfect in practically every way. And they took me less than an hour to complete (all four of them). I did the suggested quilting pattern on these and I really enjoyed it. I might have to give it a try on a larger quilt sometime.I got the pattern from this book, but if you don't have it you can also get the pattern online for free here.

Still An Obsession...

2009-09-11T20:10:00.004-06:00

but at least I'm mixing it up with the color changes!

Progress...

2009-09-03T16:31:00.007-06:00

Same fabric... new quilt (in a different pattern than last time). And this time, I'm keeping it all for ME!!! I'm so excited, I'm loving it already. I just can't get enough of this fabric. Seriously, isn't it just lovely!?

It Must be an Addiction...

2009-08-27T20:00:00.006-06:00

Because I honestly do not know what it is about this pattern, but I can't stop making these! I really do love them. I don't know why, but I just do. That is the only answer I have. So until I get sick of them, I am going to continue to make dishcloths out of this pattern. I have used up most of my cotton yarn stash (which was quite big thanks to a few donations) to make these. I figure if I can use of the remaining five skeins that I have, that gives me a great excuse to go buy more! Which really means, a great excuse to keep making these!

Yo-Yo's

2009-08-11T08:00:00.001-06:00

My mom has been making yo-yo's to make a quilt for as long as I can remember. I can't tell you how much patience it takes to make a quilt out of little tiny circles of fabric. Way more patience that I have. But I still think they are super cute. So I asked my mom if she would make a few for me. I had this brilliant idea to make them into hair clips. I know, super cute right? Well, I think so. And super easy, especially since I didn't make the yo-yo's.
Thanks mom! They turned out super cute and I love them!

"Nest" Quilt

2009-08-09T16:23:00.010-06:00

My sister-in-law, Karianne, just got married this past weekend. (see all of the wedding photos I took at her wedding here) And of course, I couldn't help but make her a quilt for her wedding present. When I first saw the moda line Nest, I fell in love. I absolutely love this fabric! I had a couple of charm packs that I decided to make into a charm square quilt (inspiration taken from Don't Call Me Becky). What a great way to show off all of these lovely fabrics.I used three inch sashings to set off each charm square. I did a simple stippling for the quilting, mostly because I was short on time, and partially because I just like it.The backing was done in the paisley print... my favorite of the line. For the binding I used the teal green. And thanks to my mom, the binding got done in time for the wedding. The final quilt measured approximatley 70X80. A perfect snuggle quilt. Overall, I absolutely love love love this quilt. I know I say that about every single one I make but I love this quilt so much, I went and bought more of this fabric so that I can make one for me.

PS. How adorable is my husband!? He was nice enough to help me get a few photos of the quilt before we gave it away.

Something Crafty!!!

2009-07-16T20:43:00.004-06:00

Finally I've had some time to work on something crafty.... and so far I'm loving it! Fabric is from this line.

Mini Album - Halloween

2009-07-07T16:36:00.003-06:00

I made this mini-album to put all the Halloween photos I get of my adorable niece. It is my first mini-album that I have made and I must say I really enjoyed it. I might be hooked on making these. All products are from the Rusty Pickle line.

Happy 4th of July!

2009-07-05T16:33:00.004-06:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful 4th of July!

More Scrapbook Pages

2009-06-17T17:57:00.007-06:00

Here are the remaining scrapbook pages that I finished over the weekend. I am really slow at scrapbooking so this past weekend really was a huge success to get this many pages done.

This one has a pocket that I can put all of Anna's art work in. Hint hint, Chardell, please send me more of Anna's art!

A Few Scrapbook Pages...

2009-06-14T20:02:00.009-06:00

Just to prove to you all that I haven't been all that slacking when it comes to crafting. Yes, I admit, I don't have near as much time as I previously did to dedicate to crafting, but I do manage to find a few spare moments here and there to work on some stuff.

These are just a few of the scrapbook pages I have completed lately. I have more, but need to take pictures first. Hopefully I can accomplish that in the next few days, but I can't guarantee anything.

This layout I did of Anna's trip to Build-A-Bear for her birthday. It really does have a lot more to it than you can see in this picture. For one, it has a hidden journal tab. Thanks to my friend Brenda for sending me all the products I used on this page (from Rusty Pickle).

North Carolina Quilt Show

2009-05-31T15:54:00.007-06:00

This past weekend I went to the North Carolina Quilt Show and I must say it was so very inspiring! I can't even imagine becoming half of the quilter that these ladies are. They are all so very talented and their work is practically flawless.

These are just a few of the amazing quilts that were in the show, and these pictures don't even begin to do them justice.

This quilt was probably my favorite one in the show. A Baby Jane quilt. I have always wanted to make one of these, but lets be realistic, I'm sure that will never happen. This quilt was made by Holly Sweet and measures 81 x 81. It was truly a site to see.
I can't remember what the name of this quilt was called or who made it but it was breathtaking. All of the blocks were pieced like this. Does anyone know what type of quilting this is? How to do it? I can't remember who made this one either, but it was one of my favorites. I love how the white offsets the red pinwheels.
At our family quilt retreat, we learned how to make these. I, of course was not able to go that time and didn't get to learn. That doesn't mean I don't love looking at them. This one is made by Jan Struble and is called Eileen's Star. This one is called scrappy carpenters wheel and was made by Kim Zebrowski. The quilting on this was outstanding. There was so much of it and it was just stunning. I really loved this one. Probably my second favorite. Another one that I can't remember the name of but I loved loved loved this one. All of those tiny log cabin blocks... just amazing.
I was so glad that I found out about this quilt show, even though it was last minute. It was so worth it and so very inspiring. Hopefully it will get me back into the swing of things.

*Just a note, I can't remember all of the names of who made these quilts so if I misquoted any of them, I'm terribly sorry.

Marble Fridge Magnets

2009-05-03T14:18:00.004-06:00

Several of you have asked how it is that I made the fridge magnets in the previous post and suggested that I make a tutorial on how to make these. Well, I'd love to but things have been pretty hectic around here : you know, new job, new apt, new city.

So, I have found a few online that are similar to how I made them. If you would like to try and make some of these here are a few sites (here and here) that might help you get started. I hope these can help and maybe one day in the future, I'll be able to post a tutorial as well. If you do make some, I'd love to see.

Good Luck!

Magnets

2009-04-19T20:41:00.006-06:00

As a "thank you" to all of those who have helped us in this journey of moving across county, I made knitted dishcloths and these fridge magnets to show our appreciation. I know it isn't much considering all that people have done to help us out but I wanted to say thank you anyway, and I had lots of fun making these. My friend Brittnee showed me how to make these adorable magnets, and I'm hooked. Seriously, I think I might be addicted to making these. I want to make more and more of them. They are so super simple and look fantastic! I have seen them made with fabric, but I used scrapbooking paper for the ones I made. I'm sure I will be making more of these very soon.

Blogger's Quilt Festival 2009

2009-04-17T21:10:00.008-06:00

Amy (Park City Girl) is hosting a Blogger's Quilt Festival and I wanted to take part in it. There are lots of talented quilters out there who have all made lots of beautiful quilts.

All of my quilts are my "favs" (I never finish the ones I don't like, they stay in my works to finish pile and never quite make it to the finished pile) but if I had to choose just one, it would be my double take quilt.

This quilt was super easy to make and I love the way it turned out. I want to make one again, but bigger. Maybe lap size or twin size. It is definitely on my to-make list and one day I'm sure I will get around to it.
Other favorites include the Dutch Pinwheel Quilt, Zig Zag Quilt, and the Mother Goose Nursery Rhyme Quilt.

What one is your favorite?

North Carolina Here I Come!

2009-04-06T15:31:00.001-06:00

Finally, after five weeks and three days, I am getting on a plane and headed to North Carolina to see my husband! I can’t wait. It has been a long hard 5 weeks and I can’t wait to see Dustin. I have job interviews on Tuesday and Wednesday and will be back in Utah on Friday. Then Saturday we are driving a moving truck cross country to NC. I have a feeling this is going to be the longest week of my life. Wish me luck!

In the meantime, here is a sneak peak at my latest craft obsession.

More about this later.