tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42976190001395924052024-02-19T17:17:12.666-08:00Dena Stoll DesignsThis is where I talk about yarn, knitting, and more yarn.Denahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02429617257044782732noreply@blogger.comBlogger48125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297619000139592405.post-4548551282437286022015-06-22T13:53:00.000-07:002015-06-23T08:32:19.871-07:00A Camping ProjectOver the weekend I went camping for the first time in at least fifteen years. A friend had invited myself and my son and I thought it might be fun. I forgot how much I hated camping as a teen. I still hate camping. In fact, now I loathe camping. It's way too much work packing, schlepping supplies, setting up, trying to cook in the wild, porta potties, pulling it all down...I'd rather hang out for a day at the state park and have the fun stuff like 'smores and then go home and sleep in a real bed.<br>
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But I brought a long a quick grab and go project that didn't require a lot of attention - the Figure 8 Headscarf from the latest Interweave Knits - to work on the few times I got to sit down and relax.<br>
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As luck would have it a friend of mine had gifted me with a random ball of yarn in pinks and purples with no identifying band. It felt like an acrylic blend, definitely not a cotton or wool, and looked to be about the right weight, so I decided to cast it on. I didn't gauge swatch for a headband but it doesn't really matter for this type of pattern, IMO.<br>
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Decided to shorten the number of repeats before and after the twist to fourteen instead of seventeen. I didn't care for how long it was in the magazine's picture. The pattern is incredibly easy to memorize, after one or two times of repeating the eight rows all I had to do was remember what row I was on and the stitch pattern came to me. And I finished it in one weekend!<br>
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Thanks for the aforementioned horrible time camping I was exhausted today for work so I just threw my hair up in a bun and tied the scarf around my head to cover my greasy hair. Et voila! <br>
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Denahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02429617257044782732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297619000139592405.post-28120807763421957872015-06-18T07:28:00.000-07:002015-06-22T14:06:04.113-07:00Review: Interweave Knits Summer 2015Yes, I renewed my subscription. It was only $33, so I figured, why not?
First, it was really nice to see some smaller, quicker projects featured in this issue. Interweave too often consists of larger projects like sweaters that would take at least a month to complete. Sometimes you want a quick knit, and this issue offers a lot of those. The first section "Section Hike" has three headband, a head scarf, and a kerchief, all of which are adorable.<br />
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My two favorites were the Berkshire headband and the Olympia headband, both knit in shades of purple/maroon.<br />
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Not only are they small projects they're super cute! I'm going to go through my stash this weekend and see if I have yarn I could substitute for the Olympia headband and knit it up over Memorial Day.
The remaining three patterns in "Section Hike" felt kind of tacked on to the collection. The Applachian Thermal and the Bartram Vest are both knit in Oatmeal/brown-ish shades, which at this point makes me want to scream. COLOR. This is a summer issue, for pete's sake! The Mount Robson Pullover is knit in a beautiful forest green, and I love the ribbing in the body contrasted with the saddle stockinette shoulders. Since I don't have a man in my life to knit it for, however, I guess it'll have to wait</div>
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The second section, titled "Wild Bouquet" did feature pieces in a variety of colors like soft green, pink, lavender, etc. The idea being a bouquet of wildflowers. I liked the slouchiness of the Phyllotaxis Hat, and the open lacework in the pattern would keep it from getting too hot. The Clove Hitch Tee is boring and boxy. I don't think it would be flattering on anyone, honestly. </div>
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The Wildflower Bolero's pattern features the self-striping yarn and bobbles, I'd like to see it in another color but it's at least interesting visually. It doesn't meet all the way in the front, however, so I'd probably add stitches on either side to eliminate the gap. </div>
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Both the slip stitch and the openwork on the Dianthus Cardigan and the Blue Columbine Cardigan would get tedious after a while. They're both pretty, but I wish the magazine had better pictures of the front. The detail of a triangle of openwork on the cuffs on the Blue Columbine pattern is very cool.</div>
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There are two shawl patterns in this collection which, even though I'm not a fan of shawls, have beautiful designs and colors. The Western Slope Tee has an open work section on the front, so you'd have to wear it with a camisole underneath. The back is worked entirely in straight stitch up to where it divides for front and back. As I'm currently slogging through a piece with a lot of straight stitch I don't think I'd find this a fun project. </div>
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The third collection in this issue, "Local Color," features three patterns with colorwork designs. I hate all three of them. There's the return of the browns/creams on the Magic City Henley and the Chrysler Cardigan (which the editor featured on the cover - WHY?). They both scream 'Old Lady' to me and look very dated. </div>
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The Chesapeake Jacket has turquoise crabs and waves against a cream background. If that's your thing, great. </div>
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I wish that, instead of including the "Local Color" section, the editor had just chosen more patterns for the "Home & Hearth" section. The sock braided trivets are made of i-cords and were obviously included to help sell this i-cord maker thing-y Interweave is selling, but they're cute and practical. </div>
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Since my son is always losing coasters under the couch I may make a few for the living room. The Cottage Baby Blanket is just gorgeous, even though it looks like a lot of work it would truly be a heirloom piece. Like I said, I wish the editor had chosen more patterns to fit in this section.
Overall, I'd say the patterns in this issue were hit or miss. Here's a shot of the pictorial table of contents at the end of the magazine. </div>
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Of course no one is going to love every single pattern in an issue, but since this one has a lot of smaller projects perfect for road trips and summer afternoons I would recommend picking this one up. I've already started one of the headbands for my camping trip this weekend!<br />
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Denahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02429617257044782732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297619000139592405.post-87543954441507164752015-04-22T09:50:00.001-07:002015-04-22T09:55:40.256-07:00Looking for Test Knitters: Toddler Short Sleeve Sweater<p>
I haven't had a lot of luck finding people to test knit my patterns for me. It's frustrating because I'd like to be able to share my designs more widely but don't want to publish patterns that haven't been proofed. My most recent piece is a simple pullover sweater knit in a bulky yarn. The design is knit in the round from an i-cord cast on, then you divide for front and back. My inspiration will come in the next post, for now, anyone want to test knit? :) </p>
<p>Here's a picture of the finished piece, modeled by my adorable son;</p>
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<p> I'm doing something new and have posted it on ravelry to a test knitters group, too, but no one is responding. Maybe people don't like the design? No clue *shrug* </p>
<p> It'd be nice to get some feedback, though </p>
- DDenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02429617257044782732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297619000139592405.post-775807106498189462015-04-15T12:25:00.001-07:002015-04-15T12:25:19.250-07:00Driftwood Tee - Interweave Knits Summer 2014<p>A year or two ago a LYS, Needleworks Unlimited, offered a groupon. Needless to say, I snatched it up even though the store is a good drive across town. I went one afternoon with a friend who enables me in my yarn habit and picked up this gorgeous yarn - Sublime Lustrous Extrafine Merino - soft with a metallic sheen - but had no idea what to make with it. I wanted a pattern that would show off the yarn's sheen, but due to the yarn's weight a lot of the patterns that were appropriate were too lacy/open to do that effectively. So it sat in my stash for over a year. Until I found the Driftwood Tee in Interweave Knit's Summer 2014 issue.</p>
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The open work panels at the side provided interest, but the larger section of straight stitch would show off the yarn. So I cast it on. First, the gauge is really tight! It grew tedious to knit that tight after a while. Since I got gauge on size 4's I didn't go down a size for the hem the way the pattern suggested.
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Second, it's knit front and back, then you cast on using M1's and then the cable method to increase for the sleeves. After having knit it I wonder why it wasn't knit in the round, then divided to knit the front and back. It would have saved finishing time, and aligning the open-work panels when seaming was a real pain. After you complete the side panels it's an awful lot of straight stitch, there are no increases or shaping through the waist or bust.</p>
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Because of this, I was afraid the tee would end up too boxy to be flattering. Laid flat, it doesn't look like much.
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<p>
But once I'd blocked and tried it on the drape of the yarn really came out. It hugs my curves nicely but isn't too revealing. Of course it has to be worn over a camisole, but I knew that going into it.</p>
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<p> I've already worn it twice, it's very comfortable and the perfect lighterweight spring piece. I think I'm going to get a lot of use out of it. Here's a close-up of the side section.</p>
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<p>And the neck, where you pick up and knit, then purl, then knit three rows.</p>
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<p>I'm pleased with how it turned out and I think the pattern accomplished my goal of showing off the yarn.</p>
- D
Denahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02429617257044782732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297619000139592405.post-60722897015443814042015-03-18T08:53:00.000-07:002015-03-18T08:53:44.883-07:00Trying something new - SteekingOne of the things I love about knitting is also what I love about dance and writing - there's always something new to learn. Neither of my last two projects have been a challenge in terms of new techniques, so I decided to stretch myself.
Steeking - ie, knitting in the round, sewing a hem, and cutting *gulp* up the center to make a cardigan.
I've been fascinated by the history, culture and yarns of Iceland for years. A visit is definitely on my list of things to do before I die. So when I found the website of designer Helen Magnusson, http://icelandicknitter.com, and she had a sale on her patterns and yarn, I decided to go for it. I ordered the kit for the Bryjna cardigan and green/magenta yarn. It was very cool to get a package from Iceland and the yarn was to die for (and surprisingly cheap!).
<p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBDxRW9QBX7nMc4KvGFDaPrkDp-lCtpI-9bnsGP001Paw6Rb-7jJwzVzQl3eotrI2q4jMKjr3qeT15Kkqbi9hnCYMxlisYWg6as2dcmHBQeTL0HaOSvRs2lR4Y6KTNUvOYTolU3ncnTnm1/s1600/IMG_1870.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBDxRW9QBX7nMc4KvGFDaPrkDp-lCtpI-9bnsGP001Paw6Rb-7jJwzVzQl3eotrI2q4jMKjr3qeT15Kkqbi9hnCYMxlisYWg6as2dcmHBQeTL0HaOSvRs2lR4Y6KTNUvOYTolU3ncnTnm1/s320/IMG_1870.JPG"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZRrW5mV42_x133ZW5jruupXa8Mi7nWAfxdInvlz9gZghs8zln5wl3mGjiMG1P1LeDsq3DbJLYotpnbTB6jLGoFgnQV9RpvTUTSG53NCLS-T-Y2dZiu91YPF-7m5JcFzWEH4w7MMng1iR3/s1600/IMG_1871.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZRrW5mV42_x133ZW5jruupXa8Mi7nWAfxdInvlz9gZghs8zln5wl3mGjiMG1P1LeDsq3DbJLYotpnbTB6jLGoFgnQV9RpvTUTSG53NCLS-T-Y2dZiu91YPF-7m5JcFzWEH4w7MMng1iR3/s320/IMG_1871.jpg"></a></div>
<p></p>
<p>
I found the pattern easy to follow until I got to the short row shaping along the yoke. I've done short rows many times before but for some reason the instructions really threw me. I actually had to email the designer with questions - a first. She was very helpful and nice, and responded right away with additional instructions and a tutorial. I think a simple re-write of the short row section would help immensely.
</p>
<p>
As written, it says;
</p>
<p>
Work the back and shoulders longer to lower front neckline: work 8(8,10,10)10,12,12 short rows over the shoulder and back sts between front markers as follows: k to left front marker, turn, yo, p to right front marker, turn, yo, *k to 3 sts (2 sts and 1 yo) before gap, turn, yo, p to 3 sts before gap, turn, yo* 3(3,4,4)4,5,5 times.
</p>
<p>
So I knit ten of the first rows, then started the rows between asterixes. That didn't work, needless to say. Ripped it out, really thought about it, and realized I needed to knit two rows, then six of the rows between the asterix, to make a total of ten rows. Voila! Problem solved.</p>
<p>
So I think simply re-writing the instructions to say;
</p>
<p>
Work the back and shoulders longer to lower front neckline: k to left front marker, turn, yo, p to right front marker, turn yo *k to 3 std (2 sts and 1 yo) before gap, turn, yo, p to 3 std before gap, turn, yo* 3 (3, etc) times for a total of 8 (8, 8, 10, etc) short rows.
</p>
<p>
Would have been much clearer. Hopefully my re-write spares someone else the pain of ripping out ten rows.
</p>
<p> Once I had the short rows done, it was time to work on the flowers in the magenta. The pattern is beautiful, in my opinion, but there were some really long floats where I struggled to keep the yarn tension even, particularly across the center section. I think adding another cross shape at the bottom of the flowers, like at the top, would have helped with that.
</p>
<p>
I'd wanted extra room in the cardigan, so I knitted a medium even though my bust size fit a small. But when I tried it on before steeking it was tight enough to be worrisome.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC5E_awrg7bYoPW9ylFghfiwrpCsbdUBlvuJncwfEwtTXsk0c9oFpM_5EpSQxI2P_peNRRRBntwglUHD6S0NF42eogeEoOKOTb8Oj1CxutGu1jY0svqNc_wmXC6ELJgmm2KQtnkT25pNF4/s640/blogger-image-1730638520.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC5E_awrg7bYoPW9ylFghfiwrpCsbdUBlvuJncwfEwtTXsk0c9oFpM_5EpSQxI2P_peNRRRBntwglUHD6S0NF42eogeEoOKOTb8Oj1CxutGu1jY0svqNc_wmXC6ELJgmm2KQtnkT25pNF4/s640/blogger-image-1730638520.jpg"></a></div><br><p></p>
<p></p>
So I decided to try steeking, then blocking it. It turned out to be a disaster. The neckline ended up too stretched out, the cardigan is still too small, and two attempts to re-block and fix it have failed. At the moment, I'm very discouraged. I'll keep you guys posted if I manage to fix it. Until then, this trying something new was an abject failure.<div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSlJpEOEKOYgc-BfNkbxG1_hthMUGuDqR8o_Rj2fhD-KamIUhhPKk0IV8rW6Wmyfth8_IZZI8Eaogjb6sXug6-nCfMNCeK5fsTQEB-XNw4I8ooNYOq8nliibS6L6Njuz17xx8Qbr_S4VM1/s640/blogger-image-650046338.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSlJpEOEKOYgc-BfNkbxG1_hthMUGuDqR8o_Rj2fhD-KamIUhhPKk0IV8rW6Wmyfth8_IZZI8Eaogjb6sXug6-nCfMNCeK5fsTQEB-XNw4I8ooNYOq8nliibS6L6Njuz17xx8Qbr_S4VM1/s640/blogger-image-650046338.jpg"></a></div><br><p></p>
- D
</div>Denahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02429617257044782732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297619000139592405.post-76435986298294631942015-03-13T07:27:00.000-07:002015-03-18T08:52:17.153-07:00When Your Ambitions Outpace your Knitting Skills<p>The first issue I bought of Interweave Knits was Spring 2009. I poured over the pages and analyzed each project, fascinated by the potential of what I could create. I finally decided to challenge myself with the Sprout Tee. I’ve always loved cables, but they also intimidated me. I’d only done one project with cables prior to the tee. I picked a tweed Patons yarn, which I ended up really liking. The stitch definition was lovely and my cables stood out in sharp relief.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH6jtrpxYDdCSWRAESv6vj_ej1nazv5OMlli6hd2dXuGSbDhKy8lGza9YZmiYc9PE9YnB8WAD_SWQJ5ehr1q8F_Ug8r6N44JTvPBsRSEEqavkvwZ6Uj9m-WeRtkf5VxqwKUbqTxU3Ql25b/s1600/sprout+tee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH6jtrpxYDdCSWRAESv6vj_ej1nazv5OMlli6hd2dXuGSbDhKy8lGza9YZmiYc9PE9YnB8WAD_SWQJ5ehr1q8F_Ug8r6N44JTvPBsRSEEqavkvwZ6Uj9m-WeRtkf5VxqwKUbqTxU3Ql25b/s320/sprout+tee.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
However…I didn’t know how to finish it. I watched videos of mattress stitch online, and did my best, but the seams came out lumpy and exposed. The sleeves weren’t set in right, and had weird bumps from where I’d tried to gather up the excess knitting. Frustrated after my third attempt to get it right, I tossed the sweater in my UFO pile and hadn’t touched it since.</p>
<p>
Until last weekend, when I decided it was time. I picked out the side seams and the sleeves seams and set to work. All told, it took me over two hours to fix the sweater. I wore it on Tuesday and received several compliments!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju1gznjl_-ts1s5PyljpkOTh_BJbcrCjRXITbplVKKZu2-X7kg-evW1_jqxQlkYt5WXoV7mAI1NzgOAaI8uR0TbyN0E1UTrm9oaATd7cXs-FAMdr_FIiV4UquTr5Q00QVMZhNkxRKsD6Mk/s1600/sprout+tee+far+away.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju1gznjl_-ts1s5PyljpkOTh_BJbcrCjRXITbplVKKZu2-X7kg-evW1_jqxQlkYt5WXoV7mAI1NzgOAaI8uR0TbyN0E1UTrm9oaATd7cXs-FAMdr_FIiV4UquTr5Q00QVMZhNkxRKsD6Mk/s320/sprout+tee+far+away.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
I still struggled with the sleeves – they’re supposed to be a little ‘poofy’ like a puff sleeve, but I think that it doesn’t quite work with this pattern and yarn. While I like the idea of the cables on the sleeves, it made sewing them into the armholes very difficult. </p>
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<p> I'm glad that I took the time to fix the project, and I think it'll be a nice lightweight spring sweater. It was nice to take something off the UFO pile, I think I'm going to continue to tackle it over the next month and see what progress I can make. Happy knitting! </p>
- DDenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02429617257044782732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297619000139592405.post-55788861527558743592015-03-02T08:20:00.000-08:002015-03-02T08:20:55.447-08:00Three's a Charm Tam - Interweave Knits Fall 2012A few weeks ago, I went on a trip to Boston and was in need of a project for the plane. My current WIP was a shirt - too big for travel. So I stopped by The Yarnery on Grand Ave to pick up the yarn for a hat. Specifically, the Three's a Charm Tam from Interweave Knits 2012.
The Yarnery didn't have the yarn that the pattern suggested, but the salesclerk recommended Berrocco Blackstone Tweed instead. It's a wool, mohair, angora blend. I picked a teal color. While the yarn itself was nice, and had a good feel, I don't know if I'd recommend using it for cables. The yarn had a tendency to split, and sometimes just pulled apart while I was knitting, likely due to the mohair and angora content. Since stitches have to be stretched behind and in front when working cables, this tendency was a bit frustrating sometimes. In addition to pulling apart, I also encountered a knot in one ball. The color, however, was gorgeous.<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeSJ6ZogoWhZvD3mBfCVd58olVeZpgYbsGvRPIEN0WNPKGB-CER8e888HvW5viWsurRda7jmMmKU6vrLlrEEByd1St8CvUwTTnCvTDVA7VT4517baaznJCCd4sfeuY41xHKwisw43PVq7J/s640/blogger-image--1820320619.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeSJ6ZogoWhZvD3mBfCVd58olVeZpgYbsGvRPIEN0WNPKGB-CER8e888HvW5viWsurRda7jmMmKU6vrLlrEEByd1St8CvUwTTnCvTDVA7VT4517baaznJCCd4sfeuY41xHKwisw43PVq7J/s640/blogger-image--1820320619.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div> The pattern consisted of three complicated cable repeats offset by triangles of trinity stitch. If you're new to working with cables, you should probably skip this pattern as it had not just the basic hold two stitches behind, knit two from the left needle, return the two stitches held behind to the needle and knit them, but also hold two in front and purl one, and two unusual cables that also reduced stitches in them (a new one for me).<div> I enjoyed working the cables and the 'plain' rows of knits and purls in between. I did use a piece of scrap paper to keep track of the row on the trinity repeat and the cable row. It took me about a week to knit, but when I put it on my head it didn't quite 'flop' like I'd expected. It was kind of flat.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqvT5I66whXta-WN31YEz5tyrfr0P3rvHGvGW4PNT3ksqIYtPuVd-idNGW6O_tcOEwD1Yr3289dR0J36BF_LKVU-VnFfe84ArhgZXjefN0KKjOylGOm4FeN64ZXx6Rb48VRK_xiknfKpUY/s640/blogger-image-1785602337.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqvT5I66whXta-WN31YEz5tyrfr0P3rvHGvGW4PNT3ksqIYtPuVd-idNGW6O_tcOEwD1Yr3289dR0J36BF_LKVU-VnFfe84ArhgZXjefN0KKjOylGOm4FeN64ZXx6Rb48VRK_xiknfKpUY/s640/blogger-image-1785602337.jpg"></a></div>
With fingers crossed, I decided I'd block the hat to see if it took a shape closer to that of the hat pictured in the magazine<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidETpKxS-SArZqQ-a6GT3KxO_CB8Sygxj74FHuCkU1t-MqlN_t6K3LnQBnRMX0l3g5etriu5HvxC1DiwRASMMYm1LVG0jt5OOEvENBeefSTYyEnKZBEFS8XTemnll5_rCpKy-2hzFsFr8o/s640/blogger-image--367759020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidETpKxS-SArZqQ-a6GT3KxO_CB8Sygxj74FHuCkU1t-MqlN_t6K3LnQBnRMX0l3g5etriu5HvxC1DiwRASMMYm1LVG0jt5OOEvENBeefSTYyEnKZBEFS8XTemnll5_rCpKy-2hzFsFr8o/s640/blogger-image--367759020.jpg"></a></div>After letting it dry, I tried it in again. Better, but still not as floppy as I'd have liked. I refuse to rip out an entire hat and knot in a larger size needle to see if that fixes the problem, so I guess I'm living with it. Here's a trinity stitch section.</div></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ8CZ5eCokl3aXKwVUAdfAqp1PHqD-92DKNmh8kyX1x2XMJ2AxiqNpJRW3K4Kgk3sMTFLQ57PNHPeAGENDe3FDqcsVgoP1FyuLm-UmqV_zVTadh97sIYqDUbG50dSuaddBVqnl1qf4cCEO/s640/blogger-image--508751546.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ8CZ5eCokl3aXKwVUAdfAqp1PHqD-92DKNmh8kyX1x2XMJ2AxiqNpJRW3K4Kgk3sMTFLQ57PNHPeAGENDe3FDqcsVgoP1FyuLm-UmqV_zVTadh97sIYqDUbG50dSuaddBVqnl1qf4cCEO/s640/blogger-image--508751546.jpg"></a></div>And here's the cable.</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ4kjwidVlgwf6htADWUI0S_cvc0jkWIih8wR8FQIXD5UEWNwzPXwMeQbLCwPlwnUoeVzk2F3L1JMsgs0p_RkT3VQ1617Rqe92FRg2RmqJLCZGWtpvQ689n1cknTZ25xKw9u6xkhc2o87y/s640/blogger-image--516453825.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ4kjwidVlgwf6htADWUI0S_cvc0jkWIih8wR8FQIXD5UEWNwzPXwMeQbLCwPlwnUoeVzk2F3L1JMsgs0p_RkT3VQ1617Rqe92FRg2RmqJLCZGWtpvQ689n1cknTZ25xKw9u6xkhc2o87y/s640/blogger-image--516453825.jpg"></a></div>I'm hoping it stretches out more like the photo in the magazine. </div><div>D</div>Denahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02429617257044782732noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297619000139592405.post-48176831673107726662015-02-24T06:49:00.001-08:002015-03-01T13:57:21.455-08:00LYS Review: Newbury Yarns in Boston, MA<p>Local yarn stores are a treasure. Without the help of patient clerks, owners, and fellow knitters who gathered at knitting circles I would never have become the knitter I am today. When I travel I love to drop in on a LYS and pick up something cool – a unique yarn, a locally produced hand-dyed skein – to make a project that commemorates my trip. My last trip to Pittsburgh I dropped in on Kid Ewe Knot and had a wonderful experience. Two weekends ago I took a trip to Boston and found my way to Newbury Yarns and had a different experience.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzai_9LRu03geqKpzTT2IG4LUOlv1A9nC9O-lPCPIteCXl-PgS9LeJgoSdRnxyUsVeaWgtD4H-ZRdpRe4wqwdrhjhgrBLeFe-GBWNbrbzViDYZ4EN7r7lcQfEURH7s5-fHKsGBFT4W_q-w/s640/blogger-image--1017904607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzai_9LRu03geqKpzTT2IG4LUOlv1A9nC9O-lPCPIteCXl-PgS9LeJgoSdRnxyUsVeaWgtD4H-ZRdpRe4wqwdrhjhgrBLeFe-GBWNbrbzViDYZ4EN7r7lcQfEURH7s5-fHKsGBFT4W_q-w/s640/blogger-image--1017904607.jpg"></a></div><br><p></p>
<p>
It was, hands down, the oddest yarn store I’ve ever visited. Given the precarious position of independent stores I always hesitate to leave negative reviews, but this isn’t a negative review per see. It’s an utterly befuddled one.</p>
<p>
First, Newbury Yarns was down some very slippery brick stairs just off Newbury street. The store was oddly laid out – upon entering there was a table for knitting groups to the left and a table with knitted projects on the right. But then there were some odd bolts of fabric and a small selection of patterns. The owner had left a large open space between the two walls of cubbies that contained yarn, with a bare floor. No cute braided rugs, no knitted rugs, no chairs. No tables piled high with yarn spilling out of baskets, or the like, nothing to browse. It was very austere and unwelcoming.</p>
<p>
The yarn itself had no organization system that I could tell, not by weight, or fiber, or anything. There were no tags on the cubbies to identify the yarn, its weight or fiber. Many of the cubbies were empty or had only one or two skeins. If you’d come here to pick up enough yarn to knit a sweater or larger project you’d have been out of luck – there simply wasn’t enough of any one yarn to do it, even if you could pick any weight/color. There did seem to be a lot of fingering weight yarn, so perhaps the store caters to sock knitters. Oddest of all – there were no prices tags on anything! Like I said, no tags on the cubbies, so the price wasn’t listed there, nothing on the skeins. Utterly bizarre.
</p>
<p>
The woman behind the counter was somewhat helpful but not friendly. She found a set of DPN I needed when I asked, retrieving them from a cardboard box behind the cash wrap desk. That’s right, not all of the needles were hanging or accessible. But she wasn’t a good salesclerk in that I gave her several openings to engage me in conversation that she didn’t take. I mentioned that I’d forgotten my set and was traveling, she could have asked where I was from/why I was in town, and then directed me to the locally hand-dyed yarn that they had that isn’t available elsewhere and increased the sale. Nothing. She could have asked if I liked knitting hats (as that was the project I mentioned) and directed me to a great yarn/new pattern for hats. She was more interested in casting on the project she’d just started.
</p>
<p>
Given her lack of interest I didn’t feel comfortable approaching her to ask the price of any of the yarn that interested me, I felt like I’d be bothering her. Which is another reason I find the absence of price tags so odd – it forces the shopper to constantly approach a salesclerk and ask “how much is this?” which is awkward when they’re already just standing behind a counter giving off the impression of being disengaged.
</p>
<p>
Given the lack of stock and complete lack of any attempt to sell, or make the space welcoming, I do wonder if the store is unfortunately going out of business. The whole space gave off the impression of a lack of pride and an “I don’t care anymore” attitude from the owner or person in charge. </p>
<p>
I left without buying any yarn – an absolute first for me - and feeling vaguely uncomfortable. If you’re in town for a visit, and looking to drop in on a LYS, I’m afraid I can’t recommend going out of your way to stop by Newbury Yarns. If you forgot needles and need to pick up a set, by all means make a trip, and it is centrally located and just off the green line. Otherwise, I’m willing to bet there are better yarn stores in town.
</p>
<p>
- Dena
(and if you're the owner - are you closing? selling? Satisfy by curiosity?)</p>
Denahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02429617257044782732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297619000139592405.post-5939009610981334312015-02-08T13:50:00.001-08:002015-02-08T13:53:28.049-08:00Someone might need to stage a cowl intervention...My only excuse is that I didn't knit this for myself. Every year I try to knit something for my awesome agent. This year she requested a cowl in neutral colors. I chose this yarn because it had been in my stash <i>forever</i> and because I thought the flecks of color in it would make the cowl versatile. <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin80gL22c1zKp-YOtgpGvo0IQojlwnrbqaIiRRKgemtmN7nkOkC6QcEWRv9bhBiFnWzlSCBCdDRyfUx7FDJ7LmiXXuVF7jivWMnAsA_cXZNwUuzA1u3IQ5gH4hExrUGksxqUcbEu2Cfytu/s640/blogger-image--1834420162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin80gL22c1zKp-YOtgpGvo0IQojlwnrbqaIiRRKgemtmN7nkOkC6QcEWRv9bhBiFnWzlSCBCdDRyfUx7FDJ7LmiXXuVF7jivWMnAsA_cXZNwUuzA1u3IQ5gH4hExrUGksxqUcbEu2Cfytu/s640/blogger-image--1834420162.jpg"></a></div>
She could wear it with a lot of clothes and not clash. For a tweed yarn, it kept its twist nicely and was super soft. According to the pattern's requirements I had just enough yarn, but I ended up running out on the bind off row and had to rip out two rows in order to get enough yarn to bind off.<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB_Kw8Ule1J7Utb0looQyL0MwMqEe-HG9i9cetW8pC1HaOpYJ9w6R2C2MH3yUR2-HtIaiOvtirXI1H9TRIhezV9aePCEsdYErcmG-KFXhdHt22skO0wLgtCOnVHCZTPI2yhfKfkDeJD0DS/s640/blogger-image--754816105.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB_Kw8Ule1J7Utb0looQyL0MwMqEe-HG9i9cetW8pC1HaOpYJ9w6R2C2MH3yUR2-HtIaiOvtirXI1H9TRIhezV9aePCEsdYErcmG-KFXhdHt22skO0wLgtCOnVHCZTPI2yhfKfkDeJD0DS/s640/blogger-image--754816105.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div> The pattern was the Fiddlesticks Cowl from Interweave Knits Fall 2014. It had an i-cord cast-on, which was nice and easy. Now that I've learned it, I wish that the pattern designer for the Ryann Tunic had selected this cast on instead so you didn't have to pick up stitches along the hem. The first few rows before the diagonals emerged were a bit hard to knit, and I confess I lost track of where I was more than a few times and had to rip out. Other than that, it was a quick knit. Thanks to the knit through the back stitches and the yarn it ended up very dense and warm. My agent claims to love it, so I think it was a win.
</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFt9rLvcErLE8hwHwbwmtwUoYA5k2tBeP0sFosQoJzG4GgEY4brbZaQl-uOF8xkXFSelYv1XztnoUoX39XczC8QqdsH2WWlRMGLG8i_OKY0HpGh3Fry6Bbdn0RuwxdIMN6f_Gutxp8UpgN/s640/blogger-image-2052731901.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFt9rLvcErLE8hwHwbwmtwUoYA5k2tBeP0sFosQoJzG4GgEY4brbZaQl-uOF8xkXFSelYv1XztnoUoX39XczC8QqdsH2WWlRMGLG8i_OKY0HpGh3Fry6Bbdn0RuwxdIMN6f_Gutxp8UpgN/s640/blogger-image-2052731901.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Denahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02429617257044782732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297619000139592405.post-88461265254433471202015-01-05T08:12:00.000-08:002015-01-05T08:12:14.041-08:00Yarn Cost Breakdown - Interweave Knits Winter 2015 magazine<p>
As promised, here are the costs for the suggested yarn for each of the patterns in the Interweave Knits Winter 2015 issue. A few notes - most of the prices I pulled off webs, but even if I found the yarn on sale elsewhere I calculated the cost at the undiscounted price for the yarn (since you're not guaranteed to get it on sale). I calculated it for the size closest to my bust, so 34-36 inches, which since I'm typically the smallest size they list means that for a lot my bustier friends the yarn would cost even more.
</p>
<p>
Ready?
</p>
<p>
Brace yourself, some of these patterns aren't cheap!
</p>
<p>
1) Fall River Cowl. A cowl, so not bad on price. $59.10
</p>
<p>
2) Quivira Coat. Though it's a larger piece, they used a cheaper yarn, so it's only $69.30
</p>
<p>
3) Moraine Jacket. $43.96. Color me utterly shocked to see a Lion Brand yarn in Interweave.
</p>
<p>
4) Muir Wrap. $68.
</p>
<p>
5) Hudson Wrap. $166.25
</p>
<p>
6) Bear Lake Cowl. $51.
</p>
<p>
7) Ozark Wrap. $111.60.
</p>
<p>
8) Tanawha Wrap. $103.60
</p>
<p>
9) Zuni Cardigan. I didn't bother, since it has so many different colors in it.
</p>
<p>
10) Bozeman Hat. $34.
</p>
<p>
11) Trapper Cowl. $30. Not bad for getting to work with a Manos del Uruguay yarn.
</p>
<p>
12) Ice Rink Pullover. $205.20. I'm going to officially call that not worth it, though not surprising since it uses an alpaca and merino blend yarn.
</p>
<p>
13) Kittery Point Cardigan. Didn't bother, too many colors.
</p>
<p>
14) Siobhan Blouse. I was pleasantly surprised by the price tag - $49.39.
</p>
<p>
15) Quadrille Pullover. $87.96. Since I'd lengthen it, I'd probably have to order extra, so it might be more. Such a gorgeous yarn, I might have to splurge. Someday.
</p>
<p>
16) Cocoa Cardigan. $220. YIKES.
</p>
<p>
17) Pearl Lake Mitts. $32.
</p>
<p>
18) Caterpillar Cowl. Glad I stash-busted on this one - $49.90.
</p>
<p>
19) Modest Pullover. $73.60. Again, I'd lengthen it, so I'd need more yarn.
</p>
<p>
20) Wind at Your Back Pullover. $103.80.
</p>
<p>
21) Matalina Pullover. $230.45. YIKES again.
</p>
<p>
No one who reads Interweave Knits regularly is foolish enough to delude themselves into thinking they use cheap yarns. Knit Simple and Love of Knitting are for that. But even I gulped at some of the price tags on these patterns. HOWEVER, it's worth nothing that a larger knitting project can mean over a month's worth of entertainment, evenings and weekends spent enjoying the feel of the yarn sliding through your hands and listening to the soothing clack of the needles. If you factor in what you'd spend to go a movie each of those nights, or to buy a book*, really, it's cheap entertainment! And thus ends your yarn purchasing enabling.
</p>
<p>
- Dena
</p>
<p>
*we'll leave libraries out of this justification.</p>Denahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02429617257044782732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297619000139592405.post-19374226981595775362014-12-27T18:37:00.000-08:002014-12-31T08:49:33.368-08:00My second knitted skirt - the Bryn Mawr Skirt<p>
Remember how I once said that fall/winter issues for knitting magazines are a 'gimme?' I was thinking of the Interweave Knits Fall 2011 issue, with its gorgeous cover and chunky yarn. When it first arrived in the mail I fell in love with the Bryn Mawr skirt and cast it on immediately.
</p>
<p>
But because I was, once again, between sizes, and because after my bad experience with the last skirt (which won't stay up) I was wary of the waist, I cast on the smaller size for the waist. I'd meant to increase it to the larger size once I finished the waistband ribbing but...I forgot. So I knit the whole damned thing, tried it on, and had a mini skirt. A very clingy mini skirt. Eeps.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwZzevUXsVXH_-dsh2jlsK0nSudnLkm3VhmlBQR0_sju0ZtHfileO9CSmO2pLiCoW5AXIMhXmgoi9PTl43f8Y0LU71SGiT71ltl_5iULqLuRCfLdCtdZCvVhAaMRUd7T2T8HjBxFNsA6RU/s1600/IMG_4974.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwZzevUXsVXH_-dsh2jlsK0nSudnLkm3VhmlBQR0_sju0ZtHfileO9CSmO2pLiCoW5AXIMhXmgoi9PTl43f8Y0LU71SGiT71ltl_5iULqLuRCfLdCtdZCvVhAaMRUd7T2T8HjBxFNsA6RU/s320/IMG_4974.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
Not what I wanted - at all.
</p>
<p>
So it sat in my 'to be fixed' pile for *hangs head in shame* years. Until this year when I saw that knitted skirts were 'in' again, and I remembered how much I loved the color, and I decided to rip it out and start over.
</p>
<p>
I didn't rip out the whole thing, just up to about four inches below the waist. Since it's knit in a chunky yarn it's a quick knit, and it took me about two weeks to fix. I ended up keeping the smallest size cast on for the waist and increasing even more to the third size up for the hip. I just wasn't getting the A-line shape pictured in the magazine.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3VneBQgm1_cIxfRn0hTo6PiMFFRph9nwzyzL2jT4KVakgcwef3GfkSNjjTLvrLQf_jvSTFQ6z91zV6lRBg0EDs-GeqiAhM7rCvKqYD6mCynB04qqbak0ofLX1KVC_drM8cA5VjqZqV9Th/s1600/IMG_5521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3VneBQgm1_cIxfRn0hTo6PiMFFRph9nwzyzL2jT4KVakgcwef3GfkSNjjTLvrLQf_jvSTFQ6z91zV6lRBg0EDs-GeqiAhM7rCvKqYD6mCynB04qqbak0ofLX1KVC_drM8cA5VjqZqV9Th/s320/IMG_5521.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
It's important to note that the A-line shape really came out after blocking. When I'd finished knitting it I still wasn't happy, and considered ripping it out again, but I'm very glad that I didn't. I'm happy with how it looks now, though still figuring out how to style it.
</p>
<p>
One note: I did NOT love the yarn I was working with - a Knit Picks chunky. It didn't keep its twist at all and it split easily, which made it hard when I needed to rip out stitches and it's already halo-ing. I doubt I'll knit with it again.
</p>
- DDenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02429617257044782732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297619000139592405.post-31357326475746638202014-12-27T11:16:00.001-08:002014-12-29T13:13:12.034-08:00Review: Interweave Knits Winter 2015If you read this blog at all regularly, you'd know that I haven't been happy with the new editor's pattern selection. At all. And I've been seriously debating whether or not to renew. While I don't think she's quite there yet, the Winter 2015 issue was the best yet and I will be renewing - but just for a year, not for my usual two.
<p>
It's the first issue that contained a pattern that I immediately cast on - the caterpillar cowl - and the yarn choices were more colorful than in past issues. I do still think that she needs to work on getting some variety into the pattern selection, and that too many of the patterns look similar to others in the issue, but there is some improvement.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXwCSwZNDTE4sd0HtZLs2A_YYSqRcN8GNwVLyzMGeyAeV8viVbVhSOvcE2er9MjPm0GV1JrTzFLoswl-SneiyxCwxR4wrc69UmwadNKbulGIg8WkU84rSJFFWnjnCFyJA8Io1esvwc8FMy/s1600/IMG_5052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXwCSwZNDTE4sd0HtZLs2A_YYSqRcN8GNwVLyzMGeyAeV8viVbVhSOvcE2er9MjPm0GV1JrTzFLoswl-SneiyxCwxR4wrc69UmwadNKbulGIg8WkU84rSJFFWnjnCFyJA8Io1esvwc8FMy/s320/IMG_5052.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
The patterns in this issue were divided into two groupings, Outfitted and Mulberry Cottage. The first group, Outfitted, was heavy on the wraps, cowls and the three tie front cardigans. It was, to me, the least imaginative. Two of the tie front cardigans - the Moraine Jacket and the Quivira Coat - looked like almost the same pattern. In fact, when I flipped the page I thought it was another picture of the same pattern, until I realized that the Moraine Jacket has a different collar and the Quivira Coat has cables. On their own in a different collection the patterns might have stood out more, but grouped together and in too similar ivory/oatmeal colors they just look blah.
</p>
<p>
While the wraps are all pretty I can't think of a single occasion where I'd sling half a blanket around my shoulders and think I looked fashionable. The chevrons on the Muir wrap have potential but I'd want to see them in different colors.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHQJKvp3d06x6sQlazuiX8Pzt3U5XGcUgCbCSpgMYpf_edztYSwS9BK_moj9uThjuU5jvfP3oqK3RWJyBraM4H3jfflXyxhi4pAX_g3x7f3VGktHXpIpCkelL5L7fQVI2kHrrGr8zCPgTM/s1600/IMG_5055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHQJKvp3d06x6sQlazuiX8Pzt3U5XGcUgCbCSpgMYpf_edztYSwS9BK_moj9uThjuU5jvfP3oqK3RWJyBraM4H3jfflXyxhi4pAX_g3x7f3VGktHXpIpCkelL5L7fQVI2kHrrGr8zCPgTM/s320/IMG_5055.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
I liked the reversible design on the Bear Lake Cowl, but again that boring oatmeal. Seriously, someone just remove the color from new editor's yarn palette, PLEASE. Flip the page and, oh look, more ivory/oatmeal. The color does help the chevron pattern on the Ozark Wrap stand out, but again I'd want to see it in another color before casting it on. I'm not even going to talk about the Zuni Cardigan, which looks like it crawled its way out of my 1985 closet, where it should have stayed put. I like the slouchy Bozeman Hat a lot, and I really like the double-knit brim detail. Those slouchy hats look so cool but are so impossible to keep on my head, and I think the double-knit brim will solve that problem. Here's the hat;
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMJzu2ZDBCt46WlZJZjJk4vvicA2Wc3QS2XM_PS7QA6hFZTKAqqCV32NsooRy3enjc60uKFPSnuagjhpwewCM9yHE-Kh1uJZWUnKxPCL6a5tt9SuDB5NEClIEcsFN6KX0olv0ETGG2d4pW/s1600/IMG_5054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMJzu2ZDBCt46WlZJZjJk4vvicA2Wc3QS2XM_PS7QA6hFZTKAqqCV32NsooRy3enjc60uKFPSnuagjhpwewCM9yHE-Kh1uJZWUnKxPCL6a5tt9SuDB5NEClIEcsFN6KX0olv0ETGG2d4pW/s320/IMG_5054.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
The trapper cowl at least manages to move up a decade from the Zuni Cardigan, to my 90's grunge flannels. So I guess there's that.
</p>
<p>
The second grouping, Mulberry Cottage, contains most of the patterns that I liked best in the issue. The Ice Rink pullover does, in fact, look like a sweater I wore to the rink in the 90's, complete with the bobbles.
</p>
<p>
The best pattern, by far, of the issue for me was the Siobhan blouse. The different neckline, the slight puff on the sleeve, and the cable work on the front all really stand out. And I love the color. I would omit the tassel because I have a toddler, and it's basically begging him to come pull on it constantly, and because I'm not a fan of home decor items on clothing. But that's just me.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMzDTjj9s8eV62hgFCOPFkLu3hC8EKaeK6ZMY_Xew1lokul4IL2ENN2fRxRHK9gmI-7ynD6wFom2rI1m3Zq5jY6M4jTikuBLS5FK4qEtB-8HRxkAM0Ez2mtwn3LSvxxzSTNAEZWKgzP18A/s1600/IMG_5053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMzDTjj9s8eV62hgFCOPFkLu3hC8EKaeK6ZMY_Xew1lokul4IL2ENN2fRxRHK9gmI-7ynD6wFom2rI1m3Zq5jY6M4jTikuBLS5FK4qEtB-8HRxkAM0Ez2mtwn3LSvxxzSTNAEZWKgzP18A/s320/IMG_5053.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
Second favorite would be the caterpillar cowl, which is the pattern I knit immediately. It was a fun, quick knit that I've already received compliments on and worn twice. The Cocoa Cardigan has some gorgeous lacework on the shoulders that's just beautiful, though per usual I'd probably add two inches to the length. </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMq1seg1diRwSzB4eY_zV6J2ab9mpzCTQ6ZHvpzYLuc8KxwnG5qIShsPFhJj4_MlNhE1MD3ikePZ_YHCwu_wSXkOGoNSoHupBLSBjOas7IZn_ISu-UYarEQu-rGhNyAlEB8nDHyFYtakxS/s1600/IMG_5056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMq1seg1diRwSzB4eY_zV6J2ab9mpzCTQ6ZHvpzYLuc8KxwnG5qIShsPFhJj4_MlNhE1MD3ikePZ_YHCwu_wSXkOGoNSoHupBLSBjOas7IZn_ISu-UYarEQu-rGhNyAlEB8nDHyFYtakxS/s320/IMG_5056.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>I feel so bad for the model in the Quadrille Pullover - it was like they decided to put her in the one sweater that would make her look squat, block-shaped and wide. The pullover actually has a lot of potential, interesting cables and yoke, but the combination of its tightness and length make it very unflattering. Loosen it up a bit, make it longer, and it could really work.
</p>
<p>
Mitts! I love mitts. With crossing latticework to frame bobbles, they're super cute if not hugely practical. The bobbles on the palms would bug me when driving, if I knit them I'd leave them off the palms. Oh look, another sweater IN IVORY/OATMEAL. YAWN. The variegated yarn used in the Modest Pullover is, however, gorgeous. I love the idea of using a pattern on the sleeve cap.
</p>
<p>
Something new I've decided to add to my magazine reviews are the average cost for yarn to make the patterns. I know I consider it helpful, and I do look at it when deciding whether or not to knit a pattern. But because that could get long, I'm going to put it in a separate post. Let me know if you think it's helpful, and if so, I'll keep it up.
</p>
<p>
D
</p>
<p>
Pattern breakdown
</p>
<p>
- 5 pullover sweaters
</p>
<p>
- 4 cowls
</p>
<p>
- 4 wraps
</p>
<p>
- 2 button up cardigans
</p>
<p>
- 3 tie close front cardigans
</p>
<p>
- 1 hat
</p>
<p>
- 1 mitts pattern
</p>Denahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02429617257044782732noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297619000139592405.post-19299025433079290942014-12-11T07:52:00.002-08:002014-12-11T07:52:34.810-08:00Cowls here, cowls there, cowls everywhere!<p>Okay, Interweave Knits won me back with the Winter issue (review to come), even though I think the new editor isn't quite there yet. This was the first one of her issues where I felt the need to immediately cast on one of the patterns. Shockingly, it was a cowl, the Caterpillar Cowl.
</p>
<p>
I've had the Dark Horse Fantasy yarn sitting around for years. I loved the variegated colors, I loved the feel of it, but I didn't know what to do with it. I didn't have enough yardage for a sweater, too much yardage for mitts or a hat, and the one scarf I knit with some of it turned out terribly. Despite extensive blocking the scarf rolled constantly and wouldn't lay flat. When I decided to knit the cowl I went hunting through my stash, re-discovered this yarn, and decided to rip out the scarf and re-use its yarn in the cowl. I'm glad that I did.
</p>
<p>
The cowl knit up quickly over Thanksgiving weekend and is super warm. The pattern on the lace ends was easy to memorize, and the stacked rows of purl/knit stitches in the body provide interest.
</p>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijtYiiV0r1WNBnIqfQnP-62hXB99fFnLHWwVicqWz4tB6tTPfgxLuHcRvBibch7ocH_n_v7MQzeOKerbJ_f1T7PD3xmWgmnZngU1UHa2IC-jhLeii1yYeaSSONCB2QYtXVW_LY_Dbybmt1/s1600/cowl+edging.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijtYiiV0r1WNBnIqfQnP-62hXB99fFnLHWwVicqWz4tB6tTPfgxLuHcRvBibch7ocH_n_v7MQzeOKerbJ_f1T7PD3xmWgmnZngU1UHa2IC-jhLeii1yYeaSSONCB2QYtXVW_LY_Dbybmt1/s320/cowl+edging.jpg" /></a></div>
</p>
<p>
I will warn you, though, I'm used to reading lace patterns from right to right - ie, each pattern starts on the right side, you knit across, and then the next row starts at the right. I knit about two inches before I realized this was wrong and that you had to knit this chart back and forth.
</p>
<p>
Ripped out, started over reading the pattern back and forth and the work went quickly from there. Here it is, finished, around my neck this morning;
</p>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSphPFcp0YKESf00HilGwl7O_t-ndf4w5u1E_slueLt5TZFmhcdGudp9CM7uaXieeWRXVcTgUTU64M6ZsG07kiyNK9w37xmt5IlAM-AC7O9su9eGvp829vOA8VfylMAmXWWsAOJM5qgXvQ/s1600/pink+and+purple+cowl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSphPFcp0YKESf00HilGwl7O_t-ndf4w5u1E_slueLt5TZFmhcdGudp9CM7uaXieeWRXVcTgUTU64M6ZsG07kiyNK9w37xmt5IlAM-AC7O9su9eGvp829vOA8VfylMAmXWWsAOJM5qgXvQ/s320/pink+and+purple+cowl.jpg" /></a></div>
</p>
<p>
Super warm and comfy, I think I'm going to get a lot of use out of this one!
</p>
- DenaDenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02429617257044782732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297619000139592405.post-38802274939415126202014-12-02T08:28:00.002-08:002014-12-02T08:28:54.428-08:00Venice Beach Tank - Self-Striping Yarn - Knitscene Summer 2013<p>What possessed me to start a summer tank at the end of August? I think I thought I'd get it done in time to still enjoy it, but boy was I wrong! Part of it was that I was working on other projects in between, but I also had to rip out and fix several things on the tank that I didn't like.
</p>
<p>
Remember how I said that I'm going to add an inch to the length of every project from Interweave that I knit from now on? Well, I think I'm also going to add a half inch to an inch to every armhole. I knit to the project's specifications, tried it on, and the armhole was waaaay too tight.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifMTXHjB2aizIzgCOZ2cHLJ3C1dznSYa2CEBWH8XT3H4fa5fE-tPHI1W_xHGRbL5lSTgqNHC-PcQQ88kUD2wvlBROuQ7G01swMSTlb7g54asjD_zDeo7Ysnsfrvd-Q_6SxitlHjQVFrgzl/s1600/Armhole+of+venice+tank.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifMTXHjB2aizIzgCOZ2cHLJ3C1dznSYa2CEBWH8XT3H4fa5fE-tPHI1W_xHGRbL5lSTgqNHC-PcQQ88kUD2wvlBROuQ7G01swMSTlb7g54asjD_zDeo7Ysnsfrvd-Q_6SxitlHjQVFrgzl/s320/Armhole+of+venice+tank.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
(Yes, that's a picture of my armpit, sorry).
</p>
<p>
It's a quirk of mine, but I really like a lot of movement in the armhole area. This also caused some puckering when I put it on, and was uncomfortable.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOLYPmPdE2WYMeTK4D62_lKn-sgGe9mTlXg3s3dHL9MOgodw_bpaOXZ5imq6N-TcZilxS57VHsrQ_oNl693kNc9PDf_jQb28G_nC9609T9WZv_fveeJEZg16ADVrnChQu72LyJybKcySrx/s1600/armhole+front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOLYPmPdE2WYMeTK4D62_lKn-sgGe9mTlXg3s3dHL9MOgodw_bpaOXZ5imq6N-TcZilxS57VHsrQ_oNl693kNc9PDf_jQb28G_nC9609T9WZv_fveeJEZg16ADVrnChQu72LyJybKcySrx/s320/armhole+front.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
Then the neck came up too high, too. So I had to rip out down to the armhole and add an inch of depth, which also shifted the neckline down. Not a huge deal, but still a pain.
</p>
<p>
This pattern was knit from an i-cord edging which was joined in the round. Then the stitches were picked up from the bottom and knit up, with a typical increase/decrease pattern through the body. The same as the Ryann Tunic I also knit from this issue, actually. On the armholes you knit an i-cord edging and bind-off, which was my first time using that technique. I really like how it turned out and I think I'll be using it on my own projects in the future. On the neckline you pick up stitches and knit the border with the holes to braid the i-cords through, then you knit three i-cords and braid them through the openings.
</p>
<p>
So the actual knitting time wasn't a lot of work or bother, but the finishing definitely took longer. I'm pleased with how it turned out and I couldn't resist wearing it once despite the weather (with a cardigan over it for warmth!). Once I'd finished modifying it I think it turned out quite flattering.
</p>
Here's a view of the front;
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghz5IWZ6jGgg8QB4GY3zzAFGMzQEWpjK_thA13t5ef7lhWegbsGtoYYGxfAYCMBmI9_-cmB4g58f2YxrMjMAoKNENon_gg7f5CaUn04VxmXSAcbQs2GugEHFdqEVni0Tfr_oPKVcWFLGNd/s1600/venice+tank+on+me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghz5IWZ6jGgg8QB4GY3zzAFGMzQEWpjK_thA13t5ef7lhWegbsGtoYYGxfAYCMBmI9_-cmB4g58f2YxrMjMAoKNENon_gg7f5CaUn04VxmXSAcbQs2GugEHFdqEVni0Tfr_oPKVcWFLGNd/s320/venice+tank+on+me.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
Here's a view of the back;
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMi_dDNrJCwQGEuuGGW3ulY6nzrlhWc-xJqeU9dqHKzHlSUJnOk6k7vjmipNWkQa7f_P_xMVemL3buk0tf39uepa_nSpOOScZFu8RAhpXenK48JolLhGx_c3uqep4DxttAiMj3Mh0JCVlt/s1600/venice+tank+back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMi_dDNrJCwQGEuuGGW3ulY6nzrlhWc-xJqeU9dqHKzHlSUJnOk6k7vjmipNWkQa7f_P_xMVemL3buk0tf39uepa_nSpOOScZFu8RAhpXenK48JolLhGx_c3uqep4DxttAiMj3Mh0JCVlt/s320/venice+tank+back.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
And here's a close-up of the braided neckline, which I think looks really cool;
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDEHc0Jl0AXbnK2LoMBhuSxI-UmgPv420D9MXuKEHn_BT1lGaIX6T6Gn8I21KGhufX-0enwwN9RCEGrly2v41BKZQSNP3fHPWcazdVVCGfU9SMAnHnp8SbabQiooeEZ5S3Lby4TjVUaLwK/s1600/venice+tank+neckline.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDEHc0Jl0AXbnK2LoMBhuSxI-UmgPv420D9MXuKEHn_BT1lGaIX6T6Gn8I21KGhufX-0enwwN9RCEGrly2v41BKZQSNP3fHPWcazdVVCGfU9SMAnHnp8SbabQiooeEZ5S3Lby4TjVUaLwK/s320/venice+tank+neckline.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
Though I'm still not a fan of all the yellow in the self-striping yarn, I think I can live with it. Now I just have to wait six months for spring to be able to wear it again!
</p>
- DDenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02429617257044782732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297619000139592405.post-91341613099176473822014-11-14T07:35:00.003-08:002014-11-14T07:35:44.261-08:00Free pattern: Cute Cabled CowlLike a lot of knitters, when I see something knitted and cute in a store I immediately think to myself, "I could make that." The question is - will I ever get around to it? But in the case of the knitted cowls that have been so popular the last two years the answer is 'yes.' A simple cable pattern worked in the round, with some decreasing at the top to create a pooled shape around the neck, I threw this pattern together and knitted it up in an evening.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbWE8k4K-cDvMcc_ombxHCtDiwQ4cAKqUxrWokbjNA8B86Ns3IgXBTpANN6xeOaA_NTv9xs6rGTvl1ViIzO6Vdx5nldPvqbXububO7xEYdS_QUeMNcmH0AJ7SBITp6JjvMiPvk0LZuL8J5/s1600/cowl+on+table+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbWE8k4K-cDvMcc_ombxHCtDiwQ4cAKqUxrWokbjNA8B86Ns3IgXBTpANN6xeOaA_NTv9xs6rGTvl1ViIzO6Vdx5nldPvqbXububO7xEYdS_QUeMNcmH0AJ7SBITp6JjvMiPvk0LZuL8J5/s320/cowl+on+table+2.jpg" /></a></div>
</p>
<p>
Quick and easy, knit up with bulky yarn on size 13 needles, I used stash yarn - Patons North America Rumor. (And who isn't a fan of stash busting? It frees up space to buy more yarn!). Have at it, and please ask any questions in the comments, or post pictures of your results.
</p>
<p>
<b>Cute Cabled Cowl Pattern</b>
</p>
<p>
<p><b>Notions </b></p>
<p>
<p>Size 13 circular needles, I used 29"</p>
<p> Any bulky yarn, in my case Patons Rumor, roughly a skein and a half </p>
<p>Cable needle</p>
</p>
<p><b>Directions</b></p>
<p>
Cast on 90 stitches and join in the round, being careful not to twist stitches.
Work four rows of the following rib pattern;
</p>
<p>
Knit 4, purl 4, knit 6, purl 4 repeat until end.
</p>
<p>
Begin cable pattern;
</p>
<p>
Knit 4 rows, 1st cable cross row. Hold 2 knit stitches in front on a cable needle, knit two stitches from the needle. Place the two stitches back on the needle, knit them. Purl 4. Hold 3 stitches in front on a cable needle, knit 3 stitches from the needle, place stitches back on needle and knit those 3. Purl 4. Repeat across the row.
</p>
<p>
Knit another six rows, then repeat the cable cross row. But this time hold the first 2 or 3 stitches in back when knitting the stitches from the needle, then place them back on the needle and knit them.
</p>
<p>
Repeat until cowl measures five and a half inches, or height desired.
</p>
<p>
Decreases;
</p>
<p>
As you work decreases, continue to work cable crossings everything six rows.
</p>
<p>
1st decrease row -*Knit four, purl 1, purl 2 tog, purl 1, knit 6, purl 4. Repeat from *
</p>
<p>
Work four rows in pattern.
</p>
<p>
2nd decrease row - *Knit four, purl 3, knit 6, purl 1, purl 2 tog, purl 1. Repeat from * (now all purl sections have 3 stitches)
</p>
<p>
Work another four rows.
</p>
<p>
3rd decrease row - *Knit 4, purl 1, purl 2 tog, knit 6, purl 1, purl 2 tog. Repeat from * (now all purl sections have 2 stitches)
</p>
<p>
Switch to knitting the rib pattern for the last four rows. Be sure to bind off loosely - the stitches need to be able to stretch to fit over your head.
</p>
<p>
Note: if you want the cowl tighter around the upper part of the neck, you can work more decrease rows and/or start working them sooner.
</p>
<p>
And here I am rocking the cowl this morning at Starbucks.
</p>
<p>
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</p>
Denahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02429617257044782732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297619000139592405.post-17815771842250835762014-09-29T12:19:00.001-07:002014-09-29T12:21:16.718-07:00My problem with self-striping yarnSelf-striping and/or multi-colored yarn - I have one issue with it. I love the way changing colors can add interest to a piece knit it straight stitch, don't get me wrong. But there's always one color in the mix that I hate. And it's generally the color that the yarn company used the most. Go figure. <div><br></div><div>Take, for example, the sale yarn I bought at Kid Ewe Knot in PA. It's from HiKoo, a division of Skacel, and not a yarn I'd knit with before. It's a blend of merino, acrylic and nylon, and while I normally avoid acrylic I decided to give it a shot. The price was right, it had a nice feel, and maybe the acyrilic would give it more wearability.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj78ZpFnLWKbm-k00_IvzmK40jRMPDYHyQIVfGw1vsaaCR5vpqJ3gq2yb9ZxpvEOAT8WlE2f7qqDdN3vJ6PCdP1l1X_Lv4x_29UCFOcp97OrJmKTSAhWG3hu2TD1By730InJG2pIZOEJTvv/s640/blogger-image--738834447.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj78ZpFnLWKbm-k00_IvzmK40jRMPDYHyQIVfGw1vsaaCR5vpqJ3gq2yb9ZxpvEOAT8WlE2f7qqDdN3vJ6PCdP1l1X_Lv4x_29UCFOcp97OrJmKTSAhWG3hu2TD1By730InJG2pIZOEJTvv/s640/blogger-image--738834447.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>I have a few inches on the project now, so you can see how the colors are pooling. Love the turquoise and the green, hate the puke yellow. Hate it. And guess which color they used the most?</div><div><br></div><div>Yeah...so I guess my problem with self-striping yarn is that I don't get to pick all the colors? Seriously, why doesn't a yarn company either have a contest where everyone can vote on the colors they'd like, or custom make it?</div><div><br></div><div>I still think I'm going to be happy with the project when it's done - though if I have enough yarn I may start cutting/re-arranging the colors near the face. That yellow isn't great on me. The yarn is knitting up nicely, though, and I like its feel while I knit. I can't wait to get to the braid detail at the neckline, looking forward to trying the technique.</div><div><br></div><div>D</div>Denahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02429617257044782732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297619000139592405.post-67037938323024161732014-09-22T07:19:00.000-07:002014-09-24T14:51:03.375-07:00Does this ever happen to anyone else...?You bring a project along for travel knitting and then end up not liking it? So, of course, you now have an excuse to visit a LYS.
<p>
I'd brought along a project on our Easter trip to the in-laws*. I was knitting with two skeins of handspun that an old friend had given me ages ago when she first started spinning. So, uh, how do I put this? Lots of bumps and not very even? But I loved the colors so I decided to give it a whirl. Halfway through my weekend I realize that it really, really wasn't going to work. Also, there wasn't enough yarn. So I hied myself over to the local yarn shop, http://www.kideweknot.com/.
</p>
<p>
The lovely owners were quite sympathetic at my plight, and helped me find a Malabrigo lace yarn for another pattern in Knitscene 2013. When I told them that my MIL doesn't knit, they commiserated and kindly put the yarn on a swift and ball-winder and wound it for me. Crisis averted! I had yarn, and a project. I also might have succumbed to some of their sale yarn, but you'll never get me to confess...
</p>
<p>
The pattern I picked was the Sundial Tee. Once again (GRR!!!) I'm between their bust sizes, plus the pattern calls for negative ease. So I fiddled with it and cast on for the larger size but decreased up to the smaller size. Basically, I hate shirts that are tight through my middle, so I wanted more room around the waist. The yarn is gorgeous, and has some lovely subtle color variations which add interest to the straight stitch.
</p>
<p> I tried it one several times while knitting and almost ended up ripping it out and making it larger. I'm glad I didn't because when I blocked it the piece grew at least an inch all around.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHWXhfL6Ib_MKyaOcfoyFBa0oIJ5HKU8k3qNUX8n7RFO5LDG2zeDe6QeaaP0gh29hyphenhyphenyas7aWsdhf0wESAts-rNwrXhEZ7Ye_I4m4ChMROFnRj4IddAqkPLHrBhfZDfyoJbOc-gOPjsDNLX/s1600/lace+top.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHWXhfL6Ib_MKyaOcfoyFBa0oIJ5HKU8k3qNUX8n7RFO5LDG2zeDe6QeaaP0gh29hyphenhyphenyas7aWsdhf0wESAts-rNwrXhEZ7Ye_I4m4ChMROFnRj4IddAqkPLHrBhfZDfyoJbOc-gOPjsDNLX/s320/lace+top.jpg"></a></div>
<p>
Because it was knitting in the round, there was minimal sewing in of ends or seaming needed (hallelujah!). The ruffled sleeves ended up a bit more 'ruffle-y' than I'd like, but I might try blocking them again and see if they settle down.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVXoL42X2BWCBEzrMFCRji1BTS6EB8zcQXvdD8pEEFYciH1tkTdxDXtZGKR9OnBtfKARYR3ZEMBK8vEUwOlJln0GX55_6jePgcm0TXk5qiQzfguKNIincre_ZsUEUZDHD8i3gY34e8xyw8/s640/blogger-image--1209091702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVXoL42X2BWCBEzrMFCRji1BTS6EB8zcQXvdD8pEEFYciH1tkTdxDXtZGKR9OnBtfKARYR3ZEMBK8vEUwOlJln0GX55_6jePgcm0TXk5qiQzfguKNIincre_ZsUEUZDHD8i3gY34e8xyw8/s640/blogger-image--1209091702.jpg"></a></div><br><p></p><p>And a straight shot of the finished piece.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq2if5WCSbLepoU-MBLunp0x8HIqY0RKM0aKEXekE0jj_jz9lzT4cif9MtiiePk6I_FB0AoGXZ_HYjpjIoh2VCYKJdFUAJfVrNuezgV8CdjJmTxEYpL0x_Dv2AAITvLNXyiANWno9Cn57A/s640/blogger-image-1111262700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq2if5WCSbLepoU-MBLunp0x8HIqY0RKM0aKEXekE0jj_jz9lzT4cif9MtiiePk6I_FB0AoGXZ_HYjpjIoh2VCYKJdFUAJfVrNuezgV8CdjJmTxEYpL0x_Dv2AAITvLNXyiANWno9Cn57A/s640/blogger-image-1111262700.jpg"></a></div><br><p></p><p>Side view</p><p><br></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOA4JLyIdvh1RPOKnjWK49KdwfMfOJI4CnyMHAaOhMqgUjjegnKG7C2_2u2GMK_j6VxEyYXYufJzEk_IDwETzJMwUvFpSb6pYj-T_XQtu8U7phRRHvv2asFZLbcs3mM8WlF-ghafVtCvAs/s640/blogger-image-1239635052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOA4JLyIdvh1RPOKnjWK49KdwfMfOJI4CnyMHAaOhMqgUjjegnKG7C2_2u2GMK_j6VxEyYXYufJzEk_IDwETzJMwUvFpSb6pYj-T_XQtu8U7phRRHvv2asFZLbcs3mM8WlF-ghafVtCvAs/s640/blogger-image-1239635052.jpg"></a></div><br><p></p><p>I think I would have liked it a little longer for more tummy coverage but I love the variations in the yarn. It's super soft and feels lovely to wear. Need to block the bottom better, however. What do you guys think?</p><p><br></p><p>-D</p><p> *Yes, this was the disastrous trip during which my MIL yelled at me for picking my battles because I let C change out of his Easter clothes (which were too big, anyway) and told me I needed to fight every one. She also picked up my son and carried him out of the room and *shut the door in my face* when he asked me to carry him, and my FIL yelled at my husband (complete with wagging finger) "You need to respect me, I'm your father!" blah, blah, blah because my husband dared to suggest - after three days of nonstop criticism of our parenting skills - that we'd got the point and there was no need to beat a dead horse. Oh, that was on Easter. Right before the rest of the family showed up. Good times.</p>Denahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02429617257044782732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297619000139592405.post-55041878512143082832014-09-12T14:59:00.003-07:002014-09-18T12:10:16.640-07:00Review: Knitscene Summer 2013I figured it was about time I posted a positive review! And, since I'm about to cast on my third project from this issue (the Venice Beach Tank), I think it's safe to say that I loved the patterns in this magazine.
<p>
This was actually the first Knitscene I've ever bought - I saw the cover on the newsstand and it grabbed me. The great earrings, the beautiful pinkish-red shade of the tank top, and the ruffles. This girl loves me some ruffles.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUMloekiFTyI_BZ0aIuYODaPjle2nvvXBIQxGjoQKSJom4t2yK7QI1fk9zawOn8IaJpY4mLZwp1PFm-vtA0vpO4QL7Nn50rpr4HjYhF_XXYbGpg3Y5aVx5HAWb2LCgZazDMXBsC56-iDAw/s1600/cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUMloekiFTyI_BZ0aIuYODaPjle2nvvXBIQxGjoQKSJom4t2yK7QI1fk9zawOn8IaJpY4mLZwp1PFm-vtA0vpO4QL7Nn50rpr4HjYhF_XXYbGpg3Y5aVx5HAWb2LCgZazDMXBsC56-iDAw/s320/cover.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
What I appreciate about the Knitscene patterns is that they're simpler than Interweave's patterns, which makes them good for busy summer days when you only have a few quick minutes to knit a few rows before jumping up to stop your toddler from climbing over the deck railing...
</p>
<p>
*cough*
</p>
<p>
But, despite their simplicity, each pattern has enough details to keep me interested. Both the Ryann Tunic and the Sundial Tee have waist shaping and increases/decreases through the bust that meant I couldn't completely check out. They were also knit in the round - as were 9 of the patterns in the issue - which is fabulous if you, like me, HATE weaving in ends and finishing pieces.
</p>
The Sundial tee;
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Tw_WJtjA3wuGZ94oc54FpAFkbhbBt2GRcR7fPQ35Hihjfx2BMvmQ6GpSsnDCe77ny6WZkK2s_yEyGqkTwaMTruSowA6RO61CxO96Qk3vGVES7oC5U5KD4FoanU3ji9YChqCrE3JH636o/s1600/sundial+tee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Tw_WJtjA3wuGZ94oc54FpAFkbhbBt2GRcR7fPQ35Hihjfx2BMvmQ6GpSsnDCe77ny6WZkK2s_yEyGqkTwaMTruSowA6RO61CxO96Qk3vGVES7oC5U5KD4FoanU3ji9YChqCrE3JH636o/s320/sundial+tee.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
I've been on a coral kick lately, and the bright colors featured in the Lida Top, Mackinac Tank, and Sundial Tee just jumped out at me. Because it's a summer issue, there are lots of projects like seven tank tops that are quicker knits, and two smaller projects (a hat and a scarf) that look really cute. I adore the braided detail on the back of the Love Braid cardigan. Though I'm not a huge fan of knitting cardigans - too many pieces to seam together - I may still have to try it.
</p>
The Love Braid Cardigan;
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixrlvUKdjDsbleUG7e8R06O1qaIZuzVIcWhiHqkYuXcVDzJodRdivg72fdU79uW__5PKTF0FbWInNhuuOL9Tti4YZhuFD_qRXnPeBDQw5WkO7bdHwEImKLx5UjXhpBnOTtNrva-jq0bu_y/s1600/braid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixrlvUKdjDsbleUG7e8R06O1qaIZuzVIcWhiHqkYuXcVDzJodRdivg72fdU79uW__5PKTF0FbWInNhuuOL9Tti4YZhuFD_qRXnPeBDQw5WkO7bdHwEImKLx5UjXhpBnOTtNrva-jq0bu_y/s320/braid.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
I do wish that the editors would feature a wider range of body types to model the patterns *cough, no pun intended* It's very hard to tell how some of these patterns will look on a curvier gal. Particularly the Venice Beach Tank, the Lindell Tee and the Melrose Tank, all of which are body conscious pieces.
</p>
The Venice Beach Tank;
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMbID4DYIL5EB_ri5RpSA7nBSXbB_F1tBmHeJJFnRsgqRrWGRdtCZD0vhsSzb3gTA1R1fpYf3EbjEmc8BlmCL2tPZyr7ux745NWFQ16PkPEZ5GDGFsNQnkDdIveaUcOvVQvt4AUSq6rjGT/s1600/venice+tank.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMbID4DYIL5EB_ri5RpSA7nBSXbB_F1tBmHeJJFnRsgqRrWGRdtCZD0vhsSzb3gTA1R1fpYf3EbjEmc8BlmCL2tPZyr7ux745NWFQ16PkPEZ5GDGFsNQnkDdIveaUcOvVQvt4AUSq6rjGT/s320/venice+tank.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
There were only three patterns in the issue that don't inspire me. Even though the Beverly Tee is cute, it doesn't look very practical. And I thought the Eclipse Top and Longboard Pullover were just 'meh.' But three out of twenty-one is a very good ratio, making this issue a definite buy.
</p>
The Beverly Tee;
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhspCDkxs8yXj4oBDqibVPC1rmBw_bNpNEN4tFKt20CGm8Zcdth0ZHLoi8YVqzcr3Tq7SvdIoMfCZC5lBdssJ7uDrQVaAgIs9cpnEx_pqB0BM5fr7xSLcKmeGyCUWt0j3ndtMN7DMv6IlhM/s1600/tank.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhspCDkxs8yXj4oBDqibVPC1rmBw_bNpNEN4tFKt20CGm8Zcdth0ZHLoi8YVqzcr3Tq7SvdIoMfCZC5lBdssJ7uDrQVaAgIs9cpnEx_pqB0BM5fr7xSLcKmeGyCUWt0j3ndtMN7DMv6IlhM/s320/tank.jpg" /></a></div>
The Longboard Pullover;
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioLCNIVmf5TRXCf2TsLOA6lCG1zmTymSaVWT1x_y58kYBYHAw_fqTBjRIGP68fq3kbRSFp0lFefGPkvkkbYyVLJCHwKG0Vn1NULop83LIPoFhrC91ZbTS4e2sm-OYRmtdCPBhokE5QYACt/s1600/pullover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioLCNIVmf5TRXCf2TsLOA6lCG1zmTymSaVWT1x_y58kYBYHAw_fqTBjRIGP68fq3kbRSFp0lFefGPkvkkbYyVLJCHwKG0Vn1NULop83LIPoFhrC91ZbTS4e2sm-OYRmtdCPBhokE5QYACt/s320/pullover.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
The issue is on sale at the moment, and I'd highly recommend picking it up. If you do buy it, be sure and let me know which patterns you knit!
</p>
<p>
<a href="http://http://www.interweavestore.com/knitscene-summer-2013">http://www.interweavestore.com/knitscene-summer-2013</a>
</p>
<p>
Pattern break-down
</p>
<p>
<p>
Tank tops - 6
</p>
<p>
Short Sleeve tops - 6
</p>
<p>
Long sleeve tops - 1
</p>
<p>
Open-front cardigans - 4 (three with long sleeves)
</p>
<p>
Hats - 1
</p>
<p>
Scarves - 1
</p>
<p>
Shawls - 1
</p>Denahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02429617257044782732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297619000139592405.post-71825853400308312172014-09-09T08:08:00.001-07:002014-09-18T12:21:16.591-07:00Giveaways! A Hat! A shirt!My knitwear company is doing not one, but two, giveaways starting this week!
<p>
First, you can enter to win a beautiful cotton hat here;
</p>
<p>
http://musemama.blogspot.com/2014/09/its-enfants-tricotes-giveaway.html
</p>
You get to pick the size, 3-6 mos up to 4T, and the color.
<p>
Second, you can enter to win a fall leaves short sleeve shirt, again your choice of size, here;
</p>
<p>
http://citymomsblog.com/twincities/giveaways/
</p>
<p>
Go forth and enter! And good luck!
</p>
- DDenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02429617257044782732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297619000139592405.post-64608344106371822932014-08-22T07:18:00.002-07:002014-08-22T07:18:36.794-07:00On the Joys of Adjusting for GaugeGauge.
<p>
Did you shudder at the sight of the word? Shrink back in fear? I've been knitting for over ten years, and working on a gauge swatch can still fill me with, if not outright terror, at least dread.
</p>
<p>
Lately, I've been working with a number of contract knitters to produce pieces for my business, and the issue of gauge has arisen. Namely, they weren't able to get the same gauge as I did for a piece, and they didn't know how to adjust for it. Two knitters with whom I'm no longer working didn't even bother to check their gauge, which led to them mailing me pants with a 12-18 mos inseam and a 3-6 mos waist. Oops! A perfect example of why gauge is important.
</p>
<p>
So - simply put - what is it? Gauge is the number of stitches per inch and rows per inch that your knitting produces. It's affected by how tightly you hold your yarn, how large of needles you're using, or in machine knitting your tension on your carriage and the tension knob. It's a tricky little beast. Typically, a pattern will give you recommended gauge for a 4X4 inch square. Somewhere in the instructions it will say, Gauge = 23 stitches, 34 rows.
</p>
<p>
All of the instructions in your pattern are based off the math that your gauge gives you. If the size is for a 34" chest knit in the round, the designer will have you cast on 196 stitches* Wait, how did I get that math?
</p>
<p>
23 stitches/4 inches = 5.75 stitches/inch
</p>
<p>
5.75 stitches an inch X 34" = 195.5 stitches (rounded it to 196).
</p>
<p>
Et, voila! So IF you're able to get gauge on your needles for that size, you can cheerfully knit away, following the pattern as you go (though I would recommend measuring occasionally, putting the piece on waste yarn and trying it on at crucial points, etc).
</p>
<p>
But, um, what if you're me and you knit three different gauge swatches last night and didn't get the correct gauge once? Sigh. Then you have more work to do.
</p>
<p>
If you're lucky, your pattern will have a chart that indicates what the measurements are supposed to be at key points (the waist, the bust, sleeve length, etc) like this one from KnitScene Summer 2013;
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7mqnrU2YY0I3T3x2QNsaG_ZydBagTEKPTvl7NTgf7gCpQMAEMwUa1xf3SbOKsxiZ4bFozRM5QCeJpn-ltSChw-8lnMGCYJ6VBxEnylOLAP9VX0mGprnDROOfARoAxT3YGOJ0y1A-oRBaN/s1600/chart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7mqnrU2YY0I3T3x2QNsaG_ZydBagTEKPTvl7NTgf7gCpQMAEMwUa1xf3SbOKsxiZ4bFozRM5QCeJpn-ltSChw-8lnMGCYJ6VBxEnylOLAP9VX0mGprnDROOfARoAxT3YGOJ0y1A-oRBaN/s320/chart.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
The drawing indicates what measurements should be at the waist, bust, etc. So all you have to do is multiply the measurements by your gauge. For example, if I'm making the smallest size the hips should be 32". In my gauge I got 5.11 stitches/inch instead of what the pattern called for - 5.75 stitches. If I take 32" and multiply it by 5.11 I know that I need cast on 163.52 stitches at the hips.
</p>
<p>
It's a pain to go through a pattern and re-do all the math, no doubt. Some knitters just chose to wing it, but if you're making a large sweater there's nothing worse than ripping it out and starting all over again. Hopefully this post will help you when you need to make adjustments.
</p>
<p>
Questions? Ask away in the comments!
</p>
-Dena
*simple example here, I'm assuming no waist shaping/hip width the same
Denahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02429617257044782732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297619000139592405.post-36005585341854491022014-07-30T14:11:00.002-07:002014-09-18T12:20:51.460-07:00Something else I've been up to lately...Not knitting related, sorry, though that is the primary purpose of this blog I do other things, too.
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Namely, write. Which some of you know, having met me in a previous life *g*
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Throwing up some old stories on wattpad, check them out if you're so inclined.
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http://www.wattpad.com/user/DLandon
- DDenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02429617257044782732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297619000139592405.post-38060625993248261062014-07-25T14:31:00.000-07:002014-07-25T14:31:02.281-07:00What I've been up to lately : My Company, My Patterns, DesigningIt occurred to me that some of you may be aware of the company I've started, and some not. I see that people are reading my blog, but not necessarily who (comment! introduce yourself! I'm nice!). So, while I have been knitting, I haven't been doing a ton of hand-knitting.
Instead, I've taken up machine knitting. Because, clearly, I needed another hobby.
You can see one of my machines in the background of the pictures on the last post. The tank top I knit for my son was made on the machine - a Brother KH-260 Bulky. The main reason I took up machine knitting is that I needed to find a way to knit faster. I started my own knitwear company, Enfants Tricotes, a while back. Website is here www.enfantstricotes.com, and facebook page is here https://www.facebook.com/enfantstricotes. It's definitely been a learning experience!
I'm quite proud of some of my fall designs, however, and thought I'd share some pictures here on the blog.
First up is a gold pinafore, complete with acorn tucked into the pocket;
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Then we have flared pants, a golden short sleeve shirt, and headband;
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The yarn I'm using is Halcyon Perle Cotton, and it's just gorgeous. You can see a lot more pictures on facebook. I'm very much enjoying designing, though it has it's frustrating moments.
I was just curious if anyone reading would like me to publish the patterns for these items on ravelry? I don't know if there would be any interest, and before I go to the trouble of typing them all up I thought I'd ask. They'd be for sale, sorry, no freebies this time, girl's gotta pay the mortgage! If you're interested, please let me know.
And now back to knitting. Goal is to make five pairs of mittens this weekend. Think I can do it?
-DDenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02429617257044782732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297619000139592405.post-87553897955589855812014-07-01T11:30:00.001-07:002014-07-01T11:30:30.438-07:00Tank top I madeWhen I asked him to try on the tank top I'd made him, I perhaps should have specified, "and hold still!"<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjddAjYtdAXZb6waRcdouuHp0MfG_I5dy_GYv3aLiJqxuOQFhA_ZwnwQz2tn7JbnLl9-7UJF4DGEvUsOyuv8WqMEdPBgWu31kfTHyquFUi7rNRJyUKgzF1kU7CSfZlx8vJsm6cyZ8cdJy_e/s640/blogger-image--2002031164.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjddAjYtdAXZb6waRcdouuHp0MfG_I5dy_GYv3aLiJqxuOQFhA_ZwnwQz2tn7JbnLl9-7UJF4DGEvUsOyuv8WqMEdPBgWu31kfTHyquFUi7rNRJyUKgzF1kU7CSfZlx8vJsm6cyZ8cdJy_e/s640/blogger-image--2002031164.jpg"></a></div>Or, "Don't try to take it off before I've taken a picture!"</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFHVU9dihvylgzCV7cGfI4knbCeVqlfCDaadesFTvdUsxkdF4XsQssORxeUZomuMXi4FtrSAMnpI7xyEfew_jAaM7RAUiamhmqL3L_xT1aAOj009u0___LKtznCUwrv0Txfa3UC1dyraLo/s640/blogger-image-811492391.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFHVU9dihvylgzCV7cGfI4knbCeVqlfCDaadesFTvdUsxkdF4XsQssORxeUZomuMXi4FtrSAMnpI7xyEfew_jAaM7RAUiamhmqL3L_xT1aAOj009u0___LKtznCUwrv0Txfa3UC1dyraLo/s640/blogger-image-811492391.jpg"></a></div>Or, "Try not to look like I'm torturing you!" </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTePaY8nSLsXcQXpsAc9YZn-FRwPPoCxdvTvp-gy71MV_X-utqM7srqC3WKlebF_tGRMSl3AipbsHB8Q9z79pbD7PuVclkgNw8R5bQLM5NQ1cNM5Zfg3IPJyMS1AmJcvK9669zHjMyhWU8/s640/blogger-image-897685468.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTePaY8nSLsXcQXpsAc9YZn-FRwPPoCxdvTvp-gy71MV_X-utqM7srqC3WKlebF_tGRMSl3AipbsHB8Q9z79pbD7PuVclkgNw8R5bQLM5NQ1cNM5Zfg3IPJyMS1AmJcvK9669zHjMyhWU8/s640/blogger-image-897685468.jpg"></a></div>I think my days of using my kid as a child model are over...</div><div><br></div><div>D</div>Denahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02429617257044782732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297619000139592405.post-33667115275258155192014-06-05T14:23:00.000-07:002014-08-22T07:19:12.319-07:00The Top that I made Twice (Ryann Tunic, Knitscene)One of the frustrating things about knitting and creating your own garments can be adjusting for sizes. Specifically, if an Interweave pattern is for a 33 bust, a 36 bust, and a 38 bust, and I fall within those ranges (No, I'm not telling you where!), which size do I knit? Typically, in the past, I've picked the larger size. This hasn't always worked well, unfortunately, and I have a few sweaters that are too large for me to wear. So this time I tried the smaller size.
Yes, I know all the tricks of putting it on waste yarn so you can try it on as you knit, etc., and I did all that. But. The problem I had with this top was that it fit through the waist and bust in the smaller size but the armhole depth wasn't enough. So I finished knitting it, tried it on...and the straps didn't meet at the shoulders. It was also tighter than I wanted. So I frogged all the way down to the waist increases and started over.
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Thank God it was a quick knit. I quite like how the shaping on the sides creates a V along the sweater and adds interest.
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(and, yes, those are bathroom selfies).
I'd intended to add the i-cords at the back but, for whatever reason, it didn't dip nearly as low as it does in the pictures in the magazine. To the point where I wonder if they followed a different pattern when they knitted...?
The pattern was the Ryann Tunic from Knitscene Summer 2013. http://www.knittingdaily.com/media/p/108422.aspx
Easy to follow, and I didn't find any mistakes. Probably the fastest I've knit a sweater, even when I had to knit it twice. I've worn the piece a couple of times and continue to like it. The DK weight yarn works nicely for summer, too, and I didn't use nearly as much as the pattern called for (Dear Interweave, why, why, are your yarn requirements never right?!?!).
- D Denahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02429617257044782732noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4297619000139592405.post-40111739275771786042014-02-17T14:17:00.001-08:002014-09-18T12:10:57.798-07:00Hallgrim Hat - Interweave Knits 2012 - my latest projectI've posted a few reviews in a row, so I figured it was time to talk about what I've been knitting recently.
A hat! Hey, I live in Minnesota, it'll be winter for at least three more months. And I lost my old hat (the Koolhaus hat pattern) somewhere in our house. Losing knitted winter items is a common hazard in this state. So I decided to knit the Hallgrim hat from Interweave Knit's 2012 issue. What can I say, I'm a sucker for cables. And I loved the arched cathedral look to the design.
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Like all hats, it was a quick knit, and I found the cable pattern for each row to be easy to memorize. By the second repeat I'd have it down and wouldn't have to consult the pattern again for the rest of the row. Believe it or not, I actually bought the yarn - Filatura de Crosa Sportwool - recommended with the pattern. Usually I stash bust with smaller patterns, but I love the color green. And I'm so happy that I did - the yarn has gorgeous tonal variations in the green and was lovely to knit with. The pictures in the magazine don't do it justice. Here's a link to those photos, where the color looks flat:
http://www.knittingdaily.com/media/p/103630.aspx
But it's definitely not, in fact when a friend saw me knitting it she commented on the beautiful variations in the yarn. It's difficult to capture that in a photograph, but I'll try.
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It took me less than a week to knit up (I was working on other projects, too). I wasn't initially a fan of the shaping at the top - rather than a more graduated decreasing like most hats I've made, all of the decreases were within 8 rows or so. So the top sat on my head kind of 'poofy,' for lack of a better word. But it has settled down a bit after wearing it a few weeks.
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I'm torn about attempting the mittens, though I bought enough yarn for both by the time I finish them winter may be over (or close to it). We'll see...
- DDenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02429617257044782732noreply@blogger.com0