Whitt's Knits

Sassy Sara modeling her Sparkle Shrug

2009-01-12T01:51:00.006-05:00

Gave Sara her shrug tonight and she loved it. Much to my delight it wasn't that big on her!

It was funny though, b/c she was standing with me when I went into the trunk of my car to get it, and she goes "Is something in there for me?" and then gets this look on her face and says, "I remember you said you were going to make me a white sparkly dress." I corrected her and said "Not a dress, a little sweater..." and she nodded, as if to say "yes, that's right." Then I poked her little belly and said "You stinker! You ruined my surprise. I have it here to give you!"

So we went inside and I gave it to her, and she modeled it for me right away. Crappy cell pics because of course I forgot to bring my real camera. Oh well, this little tushie looks just as cute via cell pics. And just for the record, I did not ask her to pose for any of these, she just automatically strikes a pose when you ask to take her picture. I seem to recall another little girl...cough cough me cough cough...who used to do the same exact thing.

New Year's Eve Sparkle Shrug

2009-01-02T19:36:00.005-05:00

For Sara. A very quick knit that ended up being too big in an attempt to not make it too small. Oh well, she'll grow. Made with LB Wool-Ease in white/iridescent (hard to see in pics) and size 8 needles. Used THIS cute and easy pattern, with some mods that I'll post later. I know Sara will like it but I wish it was going to fit her now.

Mom's Ruby Wrap: done for Christmas

2008-12-31T01:13:00.011-05:00

Opening it up...

Modeling it...

How great does that look?! I can't believe I finished it in time, but I did. I ended up using only 7 of the 8 skeins (100 yds. each) of Berroco Softwist (the color is "cool red") since mom is only 5'4" and I didn't want the thing to eat her up. It fits perfectly and is the perfect length to be worn just evenly draped over the shoulders, or with one end wrapped around.

A little blurry but shows off the pattern well...

I love the drape of this yarn and the slight sheen from the one nylon thread that runs through it. So yeah, it turned out great. I left it on a scrap yarn holder just in case she did want it longer, but she doesn't...so all I have left to do is bind off. I didn't even block it b/c I didn't have the right stuff...so I just pulled on it a lot and that worked! Below is a picture of mom wearing the shawl as well as about 5 other scarves that Gabby got her. Sara insisted on putting them all on her at once and I got a few good pics of it.

Debbie's Crocheted Arm Cast Cozy

2008-12-08T21:12:00.007-05:00

So, Debbie broke her hand a few weeks ago. She has no idea how, but she broke it on the side and it has greatly hindered her knitting. She was obviously bummed and I wanted to do something special for her, but with funds being what they are (i.e. LOW), I decided to make her an arm cast cozy. I found the pattern on Ravelry but it's online HERE. SO quick and SO easy (crochet)! I used RHSS in pink camo, love it! :)

The note attached says:

I know that you've been feeling down.
And things don't look to rosey.
But cheer up, smile, check this out!
Your very own arm cast cozy!

Cafe con Thanks

2008-12-08T21:02:00.005-05:00

On occasion, I’ll stop at a little Cuban cafeteria right by the university on my way there in the mornings. I just walk up to the outdoor window to order my cafe con leche. I’ve been going there for a while and become friendly with Ani, the young girl who is the barista. She is so cute and has taken to starting to make my coffee when she sees me get out of my car. Man, I love that and she is always so cute and nice and asks me how I am, etc.

So for a while, I’d been wanting to do something/gift something nice for her since she told me a couple of months ago that she didn’t have any break over the summer, no vacation or down time, b/c she needed to work. Throughout our conversation, I learned that she works there at the cafe from 6:00am - 3:00pm, then she goes to school every night from 6:00 - 9:00. She can’t be more than 25 years old and I just wanted to give her a little something. I know her situation isn’t unique, but she is always a smiling face despite her situation and I really appreciate that/her. Simple pleasures, ya know?

My first thoughts were to get her a massage/spa gift certificate but of course I can’t afford that right now, so that brought me to option #2: make her a little spa something. Since it was the week before Thanksgiving, it seemed like the perfect time to do it. I put together this little token of my appreciation, a mini spa package. Here is how it was packaged (how much do I LOVE that I had a spa-themed bag and cute matching paper?!):

And here are the contents:

Cloth is Elvish Leaves (my fave)!

4 Scrubby Nubby Cloths

2008-11-17T02:43:00.005-05:00

All for the Thanksgiving swap with The Betties, 5 for swapping and 5 for charity. Nine down, one to go. These last two are straight single crochet and I have to say, they are probably the best in terms of nubby scrubbiness. :)

Under the Sea (baby sweater)

2008-11-16T00:10:00.009-05:00

This is Raglan Sweater by Debbie Bliss (link is to her Ravelry pattern page) from the book "The Baby Knits Book", which has a lot of great patterns, all of which will make you want to have a baby. I made this for Debbie Singer's son Max, who I met today and who is totally delicious. I altered the sizing specs and added bottom ribbing (knit during Warren's mock trial) so it wasn't a midriff sweater, which I think is not a good look for a baby. :)

Yarn sub: I used Bernat Berella 4 in the Seascape Ombre colorway, which I love. Despite being the same gauge as the yarn suggested in the pattern, it knit up totally different. I'm thinking I am a loose knitter, even my dishcloths are like 2 sizes too big usually.

Pattern mods: I cast on 45, for the 0-3 months size. I knit it for 5.5 inches as per the 12 month size length, but then stopped the decreases at 23 sts (the 9 month size) so the neck was wide enough. Also added two more rows of st st to the neck edge before binding off (so did 4 instead of 2 rows). IMPORTANT NOTE: If I knit this again, I need to make the body longer, about 7 inches long instead of 5.5. The ribbing I added looks okay but I would've preferred the rolled hem.

For the sleeves, I cast on 30, per the smallest size. Knit the length to 7 inches before starting the decreases. Decreased until there were 18 sts left on needle (per the 9 month size).

All the SEAMING for this little baby sweater is NUTSO. Still, it came out super cute and was well-received by Debbie. Since the body was nowhere near long enough, I picked up 88 sts around the bottom cast on edge and knit about 2 inches of 2x2 ribbing.

Two more dishcloths

2008-11-08T21:17:00.011-05:00

I randomly made up my own cloth, and titled it so: Friday Night Cloth (link is to my Ravelry page). Nothing great or fancy, but it came out good anyway. It makes these little triangle spaces between rows so would be cute in a solid yarn too. The one pictures is crocheted with Peaches 'n Cream 'Salmon Royale' colorway. Pattern below picture.

Pattern:

chain 26

Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook and across, ch 1, turn.
Row 2: sc in next ch and across, ch 3, turn.
Row 3: dc in next sc and across, ch 1, turn.
Row 4: sc in next sc and across, ch 3, turn.
Row 5: 2dc in next dc, skip next 2 sts, (3dc in next dc, sk 2 sts) repeat across, ending with a ch 3 in last ch space.
Rows 6, 9, 12, 15: Repeat Row 3
Row 7, 10, 13: Repeat Row 4
Row 8, 11, 14: Repeat Row 5
Row 16 and 17: Repeat Rows 1 and 2

This one is the Autumn Leaf Cloth from the Thanksgiving Cloth collection by krisknits. Cute, easy, quick.

Sherbert Shrug

2008-11-07T02:47:00.006-05:00

This was something I'd been wanting to try to make for awhile, and finally did. So easy, will definitely be making more, as gifts and for me. It's the Anthropologie-Inspired Capelet. I used Bernat Softee Chunky in the Carnival ombre colorway, which I didn't think I'd like (hot pink and orange? no thank you), but it's actually really cute.

A quick knit b/c of the bulky yarn, too. I accidentally forgot to do the initial neckline ribbing, but I ended up liking it better so that worked out nicely. I crocheted around the front edges and neckline, since I wasn't going to use a clasp to close it and wanted it to come further around. I think it looks nice and 'finished' with the crocheted edging.

PS) I was wearing this purple tank when I tried it on to take a photo tonight. It actually matches (sorta), but I will not be wearing it with this in the future. A plain white tank will look much better.

Circle Cloth

2008-11-07T02:40:00.003-05:00

An easy and addicting pattern, with a super cool result that looks much harder than it is. Pattern is the Circle Cloth...totally fun knit. I cast on 34 instead of 46, so it was more of a washcloth size.

Hot Pink Elvish Leaves

2008-11-07T02:38:00.002-05:00

Still love this pattern, and decided that this color is my favorite of the cottons. I always want to use it instead of anything else.

Southwest Dishcloth

2008-10-25T20:42:00.002-04:00

Cool pattern. Not too southwest-y in purple, but still cool. Pattern is the Southwest Dishcloth by Southern Comfort KnC.

Sasha's City Market Bag

2008-10-25T20:35:00.003-04:00

I couldn't post this before b/c it was a surprise gift (belated) for Sasha's birthday, but here it is. It's the Everlasting Bagstopper pattern from Knitty. I used Sugar 'n Cream in Navy Blue and Midnight Magic. I love the color combo.

Playful Plaid Cloth

2008-10-11T01:58:00.002-04:00

Happy Meshy Beach Bag

2008-09-09T23:03:00.010-04:00

Added the strap. Decided to make one wide strap in lieu of 2. I think I made it a little too long in an effort to not make it too short. Typical. But I like it. Here’s what I did.

After the 10 garter stitch rounds...

Round 1: K5, BO 48, K10, BO 48, K5

Place the K10 sts on a stitch holder. Knit 5 sts, making 10 sts left on the needles. Work in garter stitch for desired strap length. I’m not sure what I did but again, I would’ve done it a bit shorter (I’m actually debating doing a crochet border around the strap and top of bag with the rainbow yarn). I then did a 3 needle bind off and crocheted like two sts to secure the end tightly. Also, I love that the bag can be slung across the body.

Here, have some more pics.

Sunday on the couch = a market bag

2008-09-09T12:46:00.001-04:00

Still needs handles, which I'm going to add tonight. Then it'll be done! Such a quick, fun project. I'm so making more of these to gift for Christmas.

Over the Rainbow

2008-09-07T17:41:00.006-04:00

Been wanting to make a market bag b/c I love how they look, but really have no need for one and don't quite get how you can successfully carry groceries in it without everything falling out. So this will be a gift to my sister and the kids, to carry all their crap in when going to the beach. Spencer loves rainbow stuff so I think he'll particularly like it.

Pattern is the Everlasting Bagstopper from Knitty.

Easy Booties

2008-08-28T14:57:00.005-04:00

Nice bunion, huh?

Well, the pattern is really called the Triangle Slippers and is from the Page-a-Day knitting calendar from last year. These were so easy and will be going to a recipient who shall remain nameless at this juncture.

UPDATE: Water Cube Cami progress

2008-08-24T23:49:00.004-04:00

Well, just as the Olympics come to an end, so does my cami. I still have to do the neck edging but I finished the length (16" from neck edge to bottom edge) and it fits great. I took a week long hiatus from working on it b/c I wanted to get the D hook for the waist shaping, which I did, and am glad I waited b/c it totally made a difference and doesn't just fall square on me. I tried it on with the right bra and though it fits nicely, I could have started the waist shaping right under the bust line and it would have made a more form-fitting top. I can grab about an inch of material in back, but it’s still okay…just a little square.

I still have to add the neck edging and am debating edging the whole thing in black with 2 rounds of sc. Hmmm…

I did about 5” with the D hook, until the top hit right at my hip bone, and then I switched back to the F until I liked where it hit. I think I’m gonna like this top a lot and now that I worked out the pattern kinks, I’ll want to make it with a darker yarn that suits me more.

Water Cube Cami

2008-08-18T22:25:00.004-04:00

Named after the Olympic pool in Beijing. Should call it the Phelps Cami b/c I was glued to the TV while working on this. It's the Cameo tank from Doris Chan's book Everyday Crochet. I like the tops and am finding the instructions pretty easy to follow. I am not usually a fan of crocheted wearables, but these are nice and not granny or 70's looking.

I don’t know what I’m thinking making a baby blue crocheted shell cami…it’s so not me, but I think it’s going to look nice. I got some help with the pattern from Doris Chan herself (very nice and prompt replies). After much deliberation with hook size, pattern size, and strap length, it's now smooth sailing (water pun not intended - heh). I redid the front and back top pieces for the size 30 (vs. 32) and it's a much better fit. The book notes say to make one size smaller than bust size, so I guess I should've read that first.

I worked the front and back pieces with a G (4.25mm) hook. Kept same hook for the join and for Rnds 2 and 3. Switched to F (3.75) hook for remaining rounds of body and am going to switch to a D hook for some waist shaping, then go back to the F for the hips. I hope it fits, I’ll be so psyched! Also…I took another Raveler's advice and stopped working on the body to do the straps, so I could try it on and really see how it fits. I am loving this yarn, wish it came in non-baby colors.

After about 5 different tries, I ended up doing a ch 38 for the straps! I used a G hook for the initial strap round, then switched to F hook for other 2 times around armhole (reduces strap sag, so says the pattern notes). It now lays nicely on me and I can add the neckline edging without it being too high up on my chest.

Dishcloths

2008-08-09T00:49:00.007-04:00

Purple Elvish Leaves, finished during the opening ceremony of the Olympics...my favorite thing in the world.

Chris' Ballband, made longer into a dishtowel (about 21"). Folds perfectly over my oven handle.

Grape Juice Scarf

2008-08-03T20:52:00.005-04:00

It's always bugged me that 2 of my 3 NYC cousins have scarves made my me, so when I got the email notice that my cousin Stephanie's birthday was August 7th, I figured that was a perfect time to make her one. I had this gorgeous grape color LB Homespun that's been sitting here a while and I think it'll make a perfect fall scarf.

The pattern couldn't be easier:

1 skein of LB Homespun
Size K crochet hook

Ch 20

Row 1: dc in 2nd ch from hook and across (19 dc), ch 2 (counts as first dc).

Row 2: dc in next st and each across, ch 2.

Repeat Row 2 to end of skein. Bind off.

I hope she likes it.

Because she's awesome, that's why!

2008-08-01T14:00:00.006-04:00

Oh Bonnie, you rock. I got a care package of the cutest stuff yesterday! Only you would hear that I was depressed and within a day, put together a cute little package, make your way to the post office, and send it to me. I love that you find time to do the little things and I love that I am often the recipient. THANK YOU!!! xo

I know this is a knitting blog and none of this stuff is knitted, but I don't care. It deserves to be posted.

Seventy Scarf

2008-08-01T00:48:00.007-04:00

WOO! Bought some Malabrigo today! Never mind that I have 3 skeins of the "Oceanos" colorway sitting here awaiting a purpose (a shrug for me is my intention). This yarn already had a purpose: a scarf for Uncle Paul's 70th birthday that we'll be celebrating over Thanksgiving (in FL this year). Not a colorway I would have normally chosen but it's manly yet colorful too. I think he'll like it.

This is my FIRST TIME knitting with Malabrigo and yeah, I get it now. The colorway is “Noviembre” and I like how it's very Fall Season/Thanksgiving-y.

I was going to do the ‘my so called scarf’ but I don’t think it shows off this yarn well so I am just doing a simpler pattern of st st with a seed stitch border.

CO 30
Seed Stitch for 4 rows
Row 5: k1, p1, k1, p1, k22, p1, k1, p1, k1
Row 6: k1, p1, k1, p1, p22, p1, k1, p1, k1

Repeat Rows 5 and 6 to desired length.

Sara's 3rd Birthday

2008-07-26T23:01:00.008-04:00

Finally got to give Sara her birthday dress today, after a month of it sitting in my house a surprise. She LOVED IT. After discarding several other gifts with a “yeah, whatever, boring” face and a toss of the wrist (nice to be 3 yrs. old), she opened my first of two boxes: two pairs of cute Target shorts and the little pink and purple purse I made her. She tossed the shorts and loved the purse.

Then she opened the box with the birthday dress in it and as soon as she saw it, and heard my sister tell her that “Aunt Whitt MADE this dress for you!”…she got a little happy grin and her eyes got all squinty with love and she held it up...

...then put it down, walked over to me, jumped in my lap and gave me a HUGE hug with her head on my shoulder and said “You are the best Aunt Whitt”. OMG my eyes totally teared up and I just felt so much love and appreciation! And the way she said it, it sounded like out of all the Aunt Whitts, I was the best. So cute.

Then, and this cracks me up, Spencer says randomly, “Aunt Whitt…did you hear about the toy company mom and dad and me are starting?” I said no, and he continues to tell me about how they’re going to make toys and dolls and then says, “So…do you want to knit some clothes for the dolls?” OMFG how cute that my niece and nephew totally get that I can make them things!

So Sara was against trying on the dress (of course, grumpy birthday moments) but pinkie-promised me she’d do it before I left. She kept her promise, but b/c the ribbon was tied in a bow and therefore tightened the top of the dress, she couldn’t get her second arm through. She got frustrated and annoyed and started crying and UGH, nightmare. I undid the tie, not giving up on my one chance to see her modeling it, and put it on her. My mom took a quick picture but the bow isn’t tied and Sara looks incredibly annoyed. Still…

Elvish Leaves Dishcloth

2008-07-24T19:11:00.008-04:00

I love this pattern. Fun to knit (decided I like knitting lace b/c there's stuff to do), works up fast, and pretty result. I think a scarf with this pattern would be gorgeous.

I used up only about half of a 2.5oz skein of Sugar 'n Cream, in Hot Blue. It’s so pretty and I will definitely be making more. Only mod is that I used a size 6 needle (better for dishcloths).

More Booties!

2008-07-20T03:27:00.004-04:00

...and more crappy cell pics.

Preemie Booties for Charity

2008-07-13T00:18:00.014-04:00

So Debbie's cousin recently gave birth to a preemie who only made it a week, very sad. She is doing a charity drive for knit and/or crochet preemie items to give to the hospital where her cousin was. Since everyone is making hats, I decided to make booties. They're so teensy and so easy to whip up.

I used THIS pattern. The pastel ones are made with Cotton Tots, the blue ones are Sugar 'n Cream. Both used an H hook. I have lots of both yarns so I'll be making a few more.

For the pair pictured below, I did an extra round of hdc at the end to make them more like socks. I like this version better...easier to fold down and I'd imagine easier to stay up on little teensy leggies. CUTENESS!

Random Acts of Kindness

2008-07-09T00:47:00.011-04:00

I swear, I must be doing something right in the knitting universe. In the past few months I've been the recipient of some awesome gifts, all of which were given "just because".

First, Shelagh makes and sends me those awesome fingerless mitts, all the way from Canada, because I'd complained about my Raynaud's cold fingers. Then Suzette and Gail gave me the awesome set of Harmony Needles. Then just last week, Debbie reveals that the secret project she's been working on was for me, and hands me a cute assymetrical cardigan. Then Debbie (the other) and Torii both invite me to sleep over their house when I had to get up early for a doctor's appointment.

And tonight? Tonight I was given an awesome skein of Dream in Color SMOOSHY from Gladys! And it’s in my fave color, grass green (well, it's really called Happy Forest)! OMFG I love it so much.

I knew it was comin’ my way b/c she told me she'd bought it months ago for my birthday, never mind that we hadn't ever met (until tonight) and had just started chatting online. It’s so awesome to be constantly reminded of the warmth and generosity of people, and how random acts of kindness are everywhere you look. And maybe if you are a good person, you'll be the lucky recipient of a few yourself.

Ever since Gladys told me about it, I've been intending it for a mini Clapotis, as seen on Ravelry. She assures me there is enough in the skein to make it, and I can't wait. I'm not a shawl person so I don't know for sure that that's what I want to make with it. I really want to get good use out of whatever that gorgeous yarn becomes. WHEEE!

PS) I sorta feel like shit for never reciprocating. I just don't know what to get/make people or how to "repay" them. I hate that.

PPS) How much will I love naming the Clapotis, The Happy Clappy, after the yarn name? ANSWER: a lot!

New yarn on it's way to being a tank top

2008-07-06T12:46:00.008-04:00

So on a recent trip to the yarn store that was supposed to be just to visit with The Betties and hang out, I found myself wanting to get something. Shocking. Debbie convinced me to get this Araucania Pomaire Multi yarn (100% cotton, color 17) and I immediately decided it was to become a tank top for me. I've never worn the Razor Cami I made so I really want to make something awesome and actually wear it.

After much deliberation, I cast on for THIS tank top late night July 2nd and hoped I would have enough yarn for it (3 hanks). It's a little splitty but not bad to work with at all.

Well...I finished the back piece last night and didn't even use up a whole skein! Did I mention I love this yarn? So soft, such a pretty colorway, and totally wearable. I've named it Summer Nights Tank Top as I am hoping to finish and wear it soon. I really liked doing the armhole shaping and decreases, two new skills for me. I feel like my knitting is getting better and my stitches more even.

I'll post my mods to the pattern when it's all said and done. Yes I know, I always say that, but this time I really want to since I can see myself making this one again.

Well that was quick!

2008-06-29T02:21:00.018-04:00

OMG I love how this dress turned out! It was so easy and barring the needle size issue and some strap attachment dilemma, it went really quickly! I took notes as I went so I can provide pattern mods here for anyone who might happen upon my page and want to know what I did. Here it is before I put the straps on (heh, strap on).

I used THIS pattern for the most part. The only mods were adding a seed stitch border to the bottom, doing 37 rows for the straps (accidentally) instead of 39, and weaving a ribbon in the eyelets formed underneath the top ribbing when you do the increase round. SO CUTE! This was my first attempt at picking up stitches and it was easy, as I'd been told...I figured it out just by looking at a few web sites.

Here's a close up of the razor back.

And one more just b/c.

Just a cute lil' purse

2008-06-25T16:34:00.002-04:00

This took literally an hour and is SO cute. Used size I hook and two colors of Bernat Softee Chunky. Probably for Sara.

Ballband Dishcloths

2008-06-25T16:33:00.003-04:00

Oh, these are too cute and too easy.

Lily Pulitzer would approve.

She's a BRICK.....HOUSE.

Chloe Update

2008-06-25T16:30:00.001-04:00

Well...Chloe is on her way to a remarkable recovery and I'm proud to say that the blanket I made her is well loved. It makes me so happy to know that something I made with my own two hands will be cherished for years to come.

Birthday Dress

2008-06-25T16:23:00.005-04:00

This is the beginning of a birthday dress I'm making for Sara, who turns 3 on July 30th. She requested pink and yellow, but I had this white and pink variegated Sugar 'n Cream so decided to use that...and I love it! That pic above is no longer what the project looks like since I had to frog the whole damn thing. The initial ribbing (the white part, which is the top part of the dress) was too big on size 7's so I wanted to switch to 5's. I thought I could just frog that part and redo it...but NOOOO, that would've been too easy. I got so frustrated trying to figure out how to pick out and unravel the cast on edge that, in a fit of frustration, took a scissor to it and cut it. AND THAT DIDN'T WORK EITHER.

I ended up frogging the entire thing...almost in tears, even though it wasn't that much. Just...all that good knittin' gone to waste. But anyway, it's already restarted, the ribbing completed (much better on 5's) and about an inch into the st st part of the dress. Will post pattern mods when finished, but the pattern is the Sugar Plum Kids Sundress and can be found HERE.

Progress Pic - Ruby Wrap

2008-05-31T12:31:00.007-04:00

Just took this and wanted to update. Haven't worked on it in a while since I put it on hold to work on Chloe's blanket, which is almost done. I hadn't seen the shawl for over a week and when I took it out of the bag to take this pic, it looked so pretty to me...the color, the weight, the pattern stitch. I love it.

UPDATE!

2008-05-27T02:55:00.012-04:00

Had to post this picture of Sara wearing the yellow outfit I made her. It's a crappy cell pic but still adorious. She's so crazy!

...and just b/c it's so darn cute:

Chloe's Confetti Blanket

2008-05-27T01:56:00.021-04:00

So I decided to make Chloe a fuzzy wuzzy plushy squishy soft and fabulous blanket for her to have and cuddle in the hospital. I had 3 skeins of Lambie Pie yarn that were gifted to me from Suzette when we first met. This was the perfect yarn and perfect amount for this blankie, but what nobody told me was that this yarn would be THE DEATH OF ME.

OMFG. Seriously. The yarn is awesome and SO great to touch, but SUCH a bitch to work with. I crocheted the ENTIRE thing, put a border on it, only to hold it up and discover that it gradually became wider on one end...quite significantly. OK, my bad for not holding it up sooner. So I ripped it all out and started completely over...only to rip it out again. And again.

YOU CANNOT SEE THE STITCHES with this fuzzy yarn, UGH! Then someone suggested I knit it instead, b/c it'd be easier to see the stitches. SO I tried that and yes, it was much easier, but the thing would've taken me forever to make and crochet is so much faster and grows taller quicker so yeah, I ripped out the few knitted rows I'd made and decided to just crochet the fucker and count every row as I went.

And that's where we are. I did a ch 75 (shoulda done 76) with an I hook and have counted every row to ensure I had 74 sts as I went...it's tedious, but much better than the alternative of ending up with another wonky blanket. No pattern really...just:

With an I hook: Ch 76
Row 1: hdc in each st across (75 sts), ch 2, turn
Row 2: dc in each st across (75 sts), ch 2, turn

...for 3 skeins worth. The border was done with a J hook and holding two strands together. First round was all hdc with one strand of Sugar 'n Cream in Hot Purple held together with some lavender acrylic that I was given. Next round was all dc with two strands of the Sugar 'n Cream held together.

I'm such a geek for this, but I liked the feeling of crocheting with two strands of cotton together. It was stiffer and bulkier and I liked the aesthetics of it. Total crochet nerd moment.

SO...yay, it's done. And perfect timing since I'm going to bring it to Chloe tomorrow in the hospital after a long day of rehab. I hope she likes it and snuggles it!

Mom's Ruby Wrap

2008-05-27T01:48:00.005-04:00

Making THIS (link to free Lion Brand pattern) shawl/wrap (I just hate the word "shawl") for mom and it was supposed to be for Mother's Day, or shortly thereafter, but yeah...that's not happening.

She was wearing a small red shawl over her shoulders at dinner a while ago and I told her I could make her a nicer one, to which she excitedly said that would be great. I’m excited to finally have something to make for her that she’ll like and actually wear, show off, etc. She wanted something black but I promptly vetoed that so she said red. I love the color, it’s a deep red with a shiny thread through it.

This was my first yarn store purchase and it’s splitty yarn but I still like knitting with it, and the splittiness isn’t too bad with bamboo needles. Glad I switched to size 9’s (from 8’s) b/c I think the lace will show up better.

I like the pattern a lot despite the mistakes I keep making that force me to unknit a row or two. Frustrating, but the pattern itself is easy and I’m liking my first real intricate lace pattern.

UPDATE 5/27: This whole project went on hold when I decided to make Chloe a hospital blanket, so I'm going to post better pics of it when I pick it up again. I switched to the Harmony circs and it's holding the weight of the piece SO much better! More importantly, my left thumb is no longer killing me from holding the thing on straight needles (thanks to Debbie for that suggestion).

Diana's Birthday Scarf

2008-05-27T01:42:00.004-04:00

I am finally using the beautiful yarn that Suzette gifted me when we first met. It’s a wool/cashmere blend and a gorgeous purple color. I’ve been saving it and saving it, and I decided to use it for THIS scarf (free pattern link). It’s a gift for Diana who turns 40 this month and is having a big party in NYC that I can’t attend. I think it’s so pretty.

I modified the cast on to 18 so I’d have enough yarn for the entire scarf. So far, so good. The lace pattern is SO easy to remember and it’s fun. The yarn is a little itchy, which is annoying since it’s a wool/cashmere blend. Oh well, hope it won’t be annoying to wear.

Christine's Legwarmers

2008-05-27T01:35:00.004-04:00

I like this pair the best, fo sho. The colors together rock. The only difference for this pair is that I used size 10.5 needles. But not just any needles...I used my HARMONY needles gifted from Zettie and Gail for the first time and…OMG THEY ROCK! I love them so much! :)

I'm Not Worthy!

2008-03-19T02:41:00.009-04:00

So like a month ago, Suzette said that she and Gail had a “just because” gift for me. I thought it was a naked picture of Baryshnikov or something as amusing. Zette told me I was “gonna pee” when I saw what it was, so I was sure it was something funny.

WELL! It was NOT funny but instead FULL OF AWESOME!

Knitpiks Harmony Interchangeable Circular Knitting Needles!

I seriously do not know what on earth I did to deserve such a gift, nor will I ever understand what I did to deserve such amazing friends who think nothing of doing random acts of kindness. For their generosity to be bestowed upon me today is, well, too much. I am unbelievably grateful and so warm and fuzzy inside, it’s not even funny. I am in awe of people like this who wake up one day and just feel like doing random acts of kindness. Suzette told me that Gail called her one day and said “I want to get something for Whitt, what should I get?” It went back and forth a bit until they decided to go half-sies on the needle set. Amazing.

AND THEN...as if that weren't enough...my online-only pal from Ravelry, Shelagh (Sheila), who lives in Canada, sent me a mystery package last week and it arrived today! OMG OMG OMG!

I LOVE THEM! I can't believe she made them! I'm always saying that my hands are cold and that I love Peeps...so what did she do? MADE me fingerless mitts, accompanied by yellow and pink Peeps! Truly a random act of kindness and I am overwhelmed with the warm and fuzzies tonight.

Milena's Legwarmers

2008-03-15T17:48:00.004-04:00

Only one done but when the pair is complete I will be 5 pairs into the 8. UGH I am so over them! I had to start the Twin Cables Clutch Purse in the meantime!

My First Cables!

2008-03-15T17:32:00.004-04:00

I'm making THIS and it should end up looking like THIS.

Arturo's Legwarmers

2008-02-22T21:55:00.004-05:00

One down, one to go. I cast on more stitches for him and also made them longer. I LOVE the Denim Ombre yarn (Bernat Softee Chunky). All of their ombres are much softer than the solids, and I love how silky and pretty they are. These are my fave so far. Clearly I'm not going to finish all 8 pairs by the show next Thursday, and I am so mad at myself for not starting sooner. Oh well, I think they'll understand.

Cast on 34

Row 1: (K2, P1) to end, K1
Row 2: K1, (K1, P2) to end

5 rows with Natural, switch to Denim Ombre on purl side, knit 33 rows, switch back to Natural for 5 more rows. Bind off.

Seam together with mattress stitch.

Gisselle's Legwarmers

2008-02-22T21:53:00.003-05:00

I love how these turned out, probably because I like the color combo so much...and Gisselle. :)

I keep changing my end stitches to try to have even bars for the mattress seaming, but it’s not working, which is annoying me. However, fit-wise, this is the best pair…mostly b/c I cast off loosely so there’s not a tight end. What I did:

CO 28

Row 1: (K2, P1) to last st, K1
Row 2: K1, (K1, P2) to end

Color changes were:

knit 5 rows with blue, switch to yellow on purl side, knit for 29 rows, switch to blue on purl side, knit 5 rows. bind off.

Amanda's Legwarmers

2008-02-22T21:49:00.002-05:00

Second pair made (out of 8)...for Amanda. I cast on less stitches b/c she has stick legs. :)

Cast on 29 and did 5 rows of black, adding the blue on the wrong side and continuing for 30 rows, switching to black again (on the wrong side) for 5 more rows. Bind off.

Row 1: K1, (K2, P1) to last st, K1
Row 2: K1, (K1, P2) to end, K1

LOVE the color combo.

One down...Seven to go!

2008-01-06T00:06:00.000-05:00

Did the other legwarmer for Tania last night, after much delay since I wanted to attempt it with the Magic Loop method. I finally just said 'fuck it' and cast on, knit, and seamed up the other one last night...on the 11 straights as before. The seaming wasn't THAT bad so I think I'll just continue along that way for the next SEVEN pairs. Oy.

Fleur de Lis, Dragonfly, and Om Cloths

2007-12-15T00:55:00.000-05:00

Made a white one first with size 7's and it was way too stretchy and loose. The 6's worked much better, and I made a point to knit tightly. I think it turned out great and will show it to Gabby and ask her what she'd like me to make of it. I'm thinking I can make a few more and join them to be...SOMETHING. Free pattern HERE.

I love how this Dragonfly one turned out. Made it for Kareen as a little Christmas nothing gift...she loves dragonflies and of course pink, so I knew she would love this. I gave it to her today and she liked it a lot. Free pattern HERE.

And here's the Om cloth I just made for Sasha. I messed up the bottom edge somehow (late-night knitting, anyone?) but I'm leaving it. Free pattern HERE.

Tania's Legwarmers

2007-12-15T00:50:00.001-05:00

Well..one of them, anyway. One down, 15 to go.

I'm making 8 pairs of legwarmers as 'thank you' gifts for the students/cast members in the ballet I'm choreographing for the university. They need to be finished by Feb 28th. I decided I'd better seam them as I finished them, so the dreaded seaming of 16 legwarmers isn't left for the last minute.

I modified the pattern as follows: cast on 32 sts (instead of 27)

Stitch Pattern:

Row 1: sl st purlwise, (K2, P1) to last st, K1
Row 2: sl st purlwise, (K1, P2) to last st, K1

Did 5 rows in pattern with grey, then switched to rose and knit in pattern for another 30 rows (35 rows total, or 9 inches). Switched back to grey for remaining 5 rows. Bind off. Seam together with mattress stitch. Final piece measures 10 inches.

Very Berry Legwarmers

2007-12-15T00:43:00.001-05:00

Whipped these up quickly for Sara for Christmas. She's all about the cozy, and holding two strands of RH Plush yarn together sure resulted in cozy!

I used a small amount of each color. Followed the free pattern found at zakka life. The only modification was doing a 30 st cast-on instead of 32. Therefore, for the top and bottom ribbing, I ended the 1st, 3rd, and 5th rows with (k1, p1). I used the dark purple alone for the ribbing, and then held two strands together until the piece measured 7.5", at which point I started the ribbing again. Final piece measures 8".

UPDATE: Sara could care less about these, guess she was too young. So I think I'm going to give them to Summer for her dance classes instead. When Sara starts dance classes, I'll make her legwarmers in every color.

The Grass is Always Greener

2007-10-19T18:28:00.001-04:00

I recently found this yarn I'd purchased many years ago...like, MANY. I have two full skeins of it and the color is SO deep and vivid, and shiny too. It's Caron Simply Soft in, simply, "Green". I LOVE the color, the feel, how it's working up, everything. Not finding anything online that really floated my boat for this yarn (insanity since I spend 99.9% of my day online browsing everything knitting-related), and knowing I wanted something I would actually wear, I decided to "make up" a basic tank (in quotes b/c it's so NOT original).

So far: I cast on 144 stitches (a guess) and I've done 2" of a 2x2 rib at the bottom and then switched to stockinette for what I estimate will be about 8 more inches (a total of 10.5 to reach right under the boobs). Then, for the boob part, I'm going to do seed stitch...and straps too, likely crocheted like my Razor Cami was.

Sand in the Sky - Crochet Hat

2007-10-15T00:15:00.000-04:00

I wanted to make THIS hat, b/c I think it's super cute...but after finishing it, it was not only WAY too long on me (covered my nose) but it looked ridiculous. SO, I frogged it back to Row 17 of the pattern and left it like that. I used a K hook just like the pattern said.

I LOVE this yarn so much! It's Bernat Softee Chunky in Nature's Way and it's shinier and softer than the solid Softee Chunky. SO nice to work with! I used New Denim Heather for the brim, starting at Row 16 (the dc's), and it matches the blue in the other yarn perfectly. I am loving this hat (if not the pics of me with a shiny forehead). It literally took me like an hour the other night.

Anyway, here are some pics:

The Blue Monster - my Razor Cami

2007-10-13T17:57:00.001-04:00

Well...here it is, 165 years after I started it. UGH, it took me forever b/c my interest waned with the repetitive (yet easy to remember) lace pattern and then a yarn tangle in the skein got the best of me...so I left this project alone for months. I finally decided I HAD TO finish it, so here it is. I TOTALLY messed up the dividing at the armpit and I haven't woven in ends yet, but I'm psyched the straps look good...I crocheted around the top edge, adding straps as I went.

Anyway, here it is:

Knit with Lion Brand Baby Soft in "Bluebell" and size 5 circs and straights.

CROCHET PATTERN: Red Spiral Slouchy Beret

2007-10-12T19:27:00.000-04:00

Materials

Crochet Hook - Size I
Yarn: Red Heart - Cherry Red (less than one skein)

I started out making THIS hat and I don't know if it's me or the pattern, but I had a lot of trouble with the sizing (and I used the same materials and hook size). I noticed that the vertical lines on top of the hat were working up into a spiral for me, but I liked it better so I kept doing it. In order to get the spiral, I was doing the "fpdc" into the stitch to the left of the previous 'fpdc', hence working up into a spiral instead of a straight line. Anyway, it repeatedly came out HUMONGO, so I kept frogging it back. Finally I just decided to frog it back until it was a 10 inch diameter, per THIS pattern's specs. For me, a 10" diameter was achieved at Row 11 of the first pattern link. At Row 12, I stopped doing all 'fpdc'.

(Join rounds with sl st, then Ch 2 at the beginning of every round)
Row 12: hdc around, skipping over every fpdc
Rows 13 - 16: hdc around (100 sts)
Row 17: (hdc in next 10 sts, hdc2tog) around (10 times = 90 sts)
Row 18: (hdc in next 9 sts, hdc2tog, one hdc in next 4 sts, hdc2tog) around, +4 hdc
Row 19: (hdc in next 4 sts, hdc2tog) around (64 sts)
Row 20: (hdc in next 4 sts, hdc2tog) around, +4 hdc
Row 21: (sc in next 4 sts, hdc2tog) around, +5 sc (45 sts)
Row 22: sc around. Bind off.

Long Time No Knit

2007-10-08T00:49:00.000-04:00

Well, that's not totally true. I'm just taking FOREVER to finish my Razor Cami, but I've started and frogged about 3 projects in that interim. I came upon a yarn tangle in the skein for my cami, so that project came to a standstill. Then I cast on last week for a cute minidress/jumper in last summer's Knit1 mag (knit in LB Homespun) that I wanted to wear to great acclaim over Thanksgiving in NYC, but I noticed dropped stitches about 1/4 the way in so THAT got frogged too. Then I made a red slouchy beret for Clanda, upon request. THEN, the last two days, I was working on the red/cream matching scarf she subsequently requested, but decided upon completion today that I am a jackass for putting the rough RHSS yarn (in Cherry Red) at the exact place it goes around the neck, in lieu of the OH-SO-YUMMY-SOFT Bernat Softee Chunky (in Natural). DER...so that is getting frogged too.

SO, lots going on but nothing good.

Here are some pics of the Red Spiral Slouchy Beret and still unfinished Razor Cami:

Finally On It's Way

2007-08-21T19:03:00.004-04:00

Well, that only took two months! JESUS, talk about procrastination! I finally mailed out the Pink Petals baby dress I made for Steve's baby girl Sarah. I didn't have a back closure for it, so it was sitting here...but as this is my last free week before my schedule becomes fully full, I am taking care of everything I haven't done all summer. SO...here are some pics of the perfect little purple satin button I found in a bag, and also of my cute packaging (if I do say so myself).

UPDATE: Steve sent me a picture of Sarah in the dress.

WIP: Razor Cami

2007-08-11T02:08:00.000-04:00

Started: August 8, 2007

A little behind the masses, but I'm well on my way to knitting the
Razor Cami. It took my awhile to figure out that (a) I shouldn't use different yarn and try to reconfigure needles and gauge...and (b) you don't do the last "K1" at the end of Row 1. Some say it worked out fine with the K1 but I found several posts on other blogs saying they left it off or else the yo's wouldn't line up (and they are right). I also modified the ribbing and did 2x2 instead. I'm using size 5 (3.75) circs and Lion Brand Baby Soft yarn in 'Bluebell'. It felt soft enough on the skein, but knitting with it is hurting my right pointer finger from pushing the yarn down with each stitch. Luckily the softness of the yarn won't be a problem since I'll always be wearing a camisole or baby tee underneath it. Anyway, I like the lace pattern, it's very easy to memorize, and so far so good.

Beanie's Birthday!

2007-07-30T02:03:00.000-04:00

Well...I finally got to unveil the two crocheted halters I made Sara and the matching yellow ruffle skirt. I didn't get a good pic of her wearing the ruffle tank and skirt outfit together, but it looked SO CUTE! I was so excited that everything fit her and she looked adorable in it all.

Pink Petals Baby Dress - PATTERN

2007-07-22T05:03:00.001-04:00

*Please note: This dress consists of two patterns combined. The first part is the top, or what I refer to here as the “bib”. It is taken directly from THIS pattern by Cassie Hennen and reprinted here with her permission. The bottom part…the skirt…is my own creation. This is a free pattern and can be shared under the condition that you provide a link back to this blog post.

MATERIALS

- 2 skeins Red Heart Soft Yarn or Bernat Satin (Pictured here: MC for bib - Bernat Satin “Flamingo”, CC for skirt - RHSY “Grape”)
- size H crochet hook
- yarn needle
- 2 buttons
- contrasting ribbon (optional)

*Pattern note: The dress pictured was made using sizing given for 18 months old. I feel that it turned out smaller than that and is more fitting for a 12 month size. However, if you have any questions regarding the sizing please feel free to ask myself or Cassie, whose contact information can be found at the link to her pattern provided above.

PATTERN - Size 12 months

*Stitch note: for the bib, the scalloped edge shaping created by the (sc, ch2, hdc) is referred to as an “S-edge cluster”.

BIB
With MC:

Row 1: Ch 59. hdc in 3rd ch from hook & in each st across, ch 1 turn

Row 2: sk first st,*(sc, ch2, hdc) in next st, sk next st, Rep from * across ending with sc in last st. ch 1 turn

Row 3: 2 sc in first st, then keeping ch2 sts from previous row S-edge clusters in front - 3sc in BACK LOOP ONLY of each sc across to last sc, 2 sc in last st, ch 1 turn

Row 4: rep Row 2, ch 1 turn

Row 5: 2 sc in first st, then keeping ch2 sts from previous row S-edge clusters in front - 2 sc in BACK LOOP ONLY of each sc across ch 1 turn

Row 6: rep Row 2, ch 1 turn

Rows 7-10: rep Rows 3-6, ch 1 turn (55 S-edge clusters around bib)

Row 11 (Armhole Row): 2 sc in first st, *sk ch2 sp, 2 sc in next sc, rep from * 5 times, skip next 15 ch2 sps, 2 sc in next 11 sc sts, sk next 15 ch2 sps, 2 sc in last 7 sc sts. Join with sl st to first sc, ch1 turn

Row 12: sk first st, *(sc, ch 2, hdc) all in next st, sk next st, rep from * around. Join with sl st to first sc, ch 3 turn

Row 13: dc in same sp as ch3, 2 dc in each sc around. Join with sl st to top of ch 3. Fasten off MC.

SKIRT
With CC:

Row 14: repeat Row 12

Row 15: 3 sc in each sc around. Join with sl st to first sc, ch 1 turn

Row 16: sk first st, *(sc, ch 2, hdc) in next sc st, sk next st, rep from * around. Join with sl st to first sc, ch 3 turn

Row 17: 2 dc in each sc sp around. Join with sl st to top of ch3, ch 1 turn

Row 18: 1 sc in each st around. Join with sl st to first sc, ch 3 turn

Row 19: 1 dc in each sc st around. Join with sl st to top of ch3, ch 3 turn

Row 20: 1 dc in next st, 2 dc in next st, *1 dc in next st, 2 dc in next st, repeat from * around. Join with sl st to top of ch 3, ch 3 turn

Row 21 to desired length: 1 dc in each st around. Join with sl st to top of ch3. Fasten off.

RUFFLE SKIRT EDGING
Join MC with sl st to top of ch3 from Row 21

3 sc in same st, 1 sc in next st, *3 sc in same st, 1 sc in next st, repeat from * around. Join with sl st to first sc. Fasten off.

BACK OPENING
With MC:

Row 1: Join yarn with a sc at top right corner of opening, work 10 more sc down side of opening, sl st in bottom center st, work 11 sc up next side of opening, ch1 turn

Row 2: sc in first st, ch 1, sk next st (button hole made), sc in next 5 sts, ch 1, sk next st (button hole made), sc in last 3 sts, sl st in bottom center st, sc in each st to top, ch 1 turn

Row 3: sl st in each st and ch around opening. Fasten off.

BUTTONS
Sew buttons to opposite side of button holes made.

RIBBON
Weave ribbon through the spaces made in Row 13. Make center bow.

Baby Dress is Finished

2007-07-19T00:10:00.000-04:00

I actually like how it came out, considering I totally wung-it on the skirt part. I wrote it down as I went so one of these days I will post my modified pattern specs (as well as all the other stuff I said I'd do that with and haven't). Anyway, I found a baby for it and it's another Sara(h)! Steve on my LJ Friends List just had a baby...well, his wife did...and she is sure to fit into this one day soon (the baby, not the wife). I am excited to be sending out my first gift to someone that's not family...I hope they like it!

Baby Dress from Hell (aka: who knew crocheting would be the thing to put me over the edge)

2007-07-14T03:01:00.000-04:00

I intended this for Sara but it turns out that (a) the way the pattern is written is SO confusing to me and (b) it looks way too small for her. After MUCH anxiety and emailing with both the designer of the dress (found HERE) and someone at Crochetville, I could finally move past the bib of the dress and onto the body and skirt. I decided to change colors too, just for kicks, but you can't see it well in the pics. The top is bubblegum pink and the bottom color is plum. It's going to be really cute, but now I have to find a baby for it!

I used an H hook and Red Heart Soft Yarn.

Another Halter Top for Sara

2007-07-11T01:33:00.001-04:00

The first one was so darn cute, I had to make another one in purple!

The pattern is called Slices of Sweet Halter and is HERE.
I made these modifications:

1) I used a G hook.

2) I did none of the Edging that the pattern calls for...meaning, I did Rows 1-8 as the pattern specifies, but I just kept using the yarn I used for the triangles (the variegated) in lieu of fastening off after Row 7.

3) Instead of doing a Ch 42 at the end of Row 8, I did a Ch 38 b/c my niece is so tiny. I would measure around your wearer's chest first, but I didn't have that chance so I wung it. Again, I haven't tried it on her so I'm hoping it fits!

4) I only did 8 rounds of the V-stitch pattern (in the pattern it's Rnds 10-24)...I know this will be long enough for my niece but again, I didn't measure.

5) For Rnd 9, I switched to the variegated yarn again and just did dc around the whole bottom edge in lieu of the clusters the pattern states in Rnd 25.

6) I didn't do the straps as the pattern states. I did this instead:

- sl st in an end stitch at the top of one triangle
- sc in top 3 stitches
- yo, pull through all 3 sts.
- make a Ch 50 for strap and continue to sc back down the strap.
- attach to top 3 sts of triangle.

ALSO, in order for both triangles to have the correct side facing front, you cannot join the tails together to join the triangles as the pattern states...one triangle has to be turned around.

Bean Modeling Tank

2007-07-07T03:05:00.000-04:00

And just because it's so darn cute:

Arizona's Next Top Model: Miss Molly!

2007-07-06T01:09:00.001-04:00

Sara's Sherbet Halter Top

2007-07-04T03:22:00.000-04:00

I LOVE this! It's the cutest, easiest pattern (crochet) ever and the variations are endless. Sara turns 2 on July 30th and, funds being low, I'm planning on making her a few cute tops and maybe a skirt in lieu of buying out the entire "princess" section of Wal Mart.

Miss Molly Finito!

2007-06-26T00:17:00.000-04:00

Pattern coming soon, I gotta get my brain organized so the modifications will make sense. I will say though that Amanda at DeliciousStitches had the brilliant idea of crocheting around the entire top edge and adding the straps as I go. I did just that, and they lay flat and are secure. And now...MISS MOLLY:

Good Golly Miss Molly

2007-06-24T21:06:00.000-04:00

Well...the only thing preventing me from sending this out to Bonnie and Molly is that I don't know how I want to do the straps. I want them to lay flat and look nice, but since I knit it on circs this time it was easier to bind off the whole body and do the straps separately. Ok, I did the same thing for Sara's tank, but I don't like how the straps turned out. AAANYWAY...I'm waiting on advice from some knitters on what to do about the straps, but thought I'd post the almost-finished product.

Crochet Maryjanes

2007-05-17T23:36:00.000-04:00

Found this pattern HERE on Craftster.org, and thought they were so cute I decided to make a pair. I used Red Heart PLUSH in 'dark purple' and 'light berry', holding both strands together, and size K crochet hook. Except the smaller hook, I followed the pattern exactly.

And those were so easy, I decided to make this pair with regular old Red Heart acrylic, and I added a buckle! They are stiffer/thicker and fit well, but the edging in black took me forever. Also, weaving in the ends was annoying as usual.

Molly's Ruffle Tank

2007-05-17T23:18:00.000-04:00

So, I'm knitting another ruffle tank for Molly! I figured I better do it right away while the pattern was still fresh and my motivation was still in tact. I love the color I chose...Bernat Cotton Tots in 'strawberry'. I'm also using circs this time, size 7's, and I'm LOVING IT! The thought of no seaming is enough to make me happy, but there is no purling and I think it's something about the circular motion that is making my stitches even! Here's a pic of my progress so far:

Not much, but I wanted to post a pic (since I know you're the only one who's gonna read this, Bon! ha).

Sara modeling her Ruffle Tank!

2007-05-13T22:00:00.000-04:00

It's so big on her, annoying. It looks like a dress, and the straps are too long (after all the strap drama). BUT, the pics are way cute so I'm posting one.

Ruffle Tank: Mission Accomplished

2007-05-10T22:32:00.000-04:00

YAY, I finished it! I decided it was too short though, so I added a crocheted ruffle edge on Zette's advice and hoped that it didn't end up looking TOO frilly (is there even such a thing for a 20-month old little Bean?). So without further ado, I present to you...

Sara's Ruffle Tank

FRONT:

and BACK:

Pattern coming soon...

Sara's Ruffle Tank

2007-05-07T01:26:00.000-04:00

I'm taking forever to knit this tank top. I started it about two weeks before Paris (so, the end of March) and didn't touch it again until this week. I lost the knitting motivation which, according to Zette, happens from time to time and it's best to just go with it until you feel into knitting again. Well, the excitement of knitting the ruffle for this tank top and then successfully doing my first 3-needle joining has re-motivated me...I'm back, baby! (that was for you, Bon. ha).

Anyway, here is a pic of the tank so far...front of body, ruffle joined. I'm currently knitting the back body panel but am going to eliminate the ruffle for the back as I think it'd be more comfy to wear/lean back on. I think it's going to be SO cute, I can't wait to finish it. Plans for the straps are to knit or crochet them separately and then join to the body...that's different than the pattern instructions but Zette and I agreed (well, she suggested and I agreed) that just binding off the whole thing and then making, and joining, straps would be MUCH easier since I'd modified the pattern to be one size smaller (casting on 5 less than the smallest size given). Sidenote: I'm using Bernat Cotton Tots and I don't like it. It has no give and my stitches are, as seen in the pic, uneven.

So that's my progress thus far. I will of course update once it's completed, hopefully within this millenium, while Sara can still fit into the damn thing!

Jon's Color Block Scarf

2007-03-31T01:18:00.004-04:00

I knit this in a jiffy (AKA: a week) for Jon when I discovered that he was traveling to Wisconsin in February (read: fuh-ree-zing) without any actual winter gear. Though he was pretty new to be receiving hand-made gifts from me, I had such a warm fuzzy feeling while knitting it and knew that he would appreciate it...and boy does he. I used my leftover yarn from Sasha's legwarmers and made the pattern (easy) up as I went. I'll post pics soon...as soon as he remembers to bring the scarf over so I can take pictures!

EDIT: On October 28, 2007 (as in, 4 months post-break up) he sent me a pic. Just a pic...alone...in an email. And a bad pic, not showing the stripes at the ends, but it's all I've got so I'm posting it.

Jon's Color Block Scarf
February 25, 2007

Entire scarf is knit in Stockinette stitch.

Materials:

Size 11 needles
2 colors Bernat Softee Chunky, 1 skein each

With Color A: CO 30 sts
Continue in Stock St for 20 rows

Switch to Color B: 4 rows
Color A: 4 rows
Color B: 4 rows
Color A: 20 rows
Color B: 40 rows
Color A: 20 rows
Color B: 4 rows
Color A: 4 rows
Color B: 4 rows
Color A: 20 rows

Bind off.

Neutral Tote

2007-03-31T00:57:00.000-04:00

So I finished this almost 2 months ago but am just getting around to posting the FO pics and pattern. Here is what it looked like as a WIP:

And here is the FO.
Front:

and Back:

I am SO proud of this piece. I like that I wasn't intimidated by the casting on/off for the handles, and I like even more that I didn't fuck it up! I also love that the front and back colors patterns are different, and I've decided not to felt it b/c I think the stitches look so pretty. I really enjoyed knitting with the Patons Classic Wool and bamboo needles. Ok, here is the pattern:

Neutral Tote
February/March 2007

Materials:

Size 8 Bamboo Straight Needles
1 skein each of 3 colors of yarn.
Color A: Patons Classic Merino Wool in Winter White
Color B: light brown heathered wool (gifted from Zette's stash)
Color C: Lion Brand Wool-Ease, sport weight in Black

No gauge.

Pattern (entire pattern is knit in Stockinette stitch):

FRONT
With Color A: CO 64 sts
Continue for 14 rows

For handle (still with Color A):
K20, COff 24, K20
P20, CO 24, P20

Continue for 8 more rows with Color A.

Switch to Color B: 14 rows
Switch to Color C: 8 rows
Switch to Color B: 8 rows
Switch to Color A: 34 rows

BACK
With Color C: 60 rows
Switch to Color B: 14 rows
Switch to Color A: 8 rows

For handle (still with Color A):
K20, COff 24, K20
P20, CO 24, P20

Continue for 14 rows.
Bind off.

Tiny Eyelet Stitch

2007-03-13T02:14:00.000-04:00

Decided to be adventerous and test out a new stitch, #132 in "The Complete Book of Knitting", which looked fancy but still only required knit, purl, and a yo (which I was familiar with from crocheting and which, for any non-knitters reading this, has nothing to do with Hip Hop culture). Well...I DID IT, and I love it!

I think it'd be so nice to do in lieu of a bottom ribbing for a tank top or something. I used Size 8 bamboo needles and the yarn is...don't kill me...Red Heart acrylic horridness that I've had forever, but (a) it's this really gorgeous deep teal color and (b) I wanted to test out the stitch on a simple, solid-colored yarn. I'll take suggestions on what anyone thinks I should use this for, but I'm all jazzed and whatever project I decide to take on next (I'm projectless right now), I want it to include this. Also, I'd want to cast on more stitches for the correct hip measurement/circumference b/c I like how the eyelets look going vertically and not horizontally.

Anyway, here is the pattern:

Stitches needed: any number of 5 + 2

Row 1: P2, K3 - repeat to end, ending with a P2
Row 2: K2, P3 - repeat to end, ending with a K2
Row 3: P2, Sl 1, K2, pass Sl St over K2 - repeat to end, ending with P2
Row 4: K2, P1, yo* (see below), P1 - repeat to end, ending with a K2

* yo: bring working yarn between both needles and wrap it around the right hand needle, keeping the yarn in front of the left hand needle.

Diana's Scarf

2007-03-02T01:00:00.000-05:00

So, I finally made Diana her scarf in the requested cream color.

Pattern was right off the Lion Brand website, One Skein Scarf in Homespun. I used the color "Deco". Pattern is super easy:

Crocheted One Skein Homespun Scarf

Ch 16.
Double crochet in 4th chain from hook and in each ch across.
*Ch 3, turn.
Double crochet in next double crochet, and in each dc across to end*.

Repeat from * to * until skein is done.

HERE is a pic of the same scarf in turquoise (I look horrid, but the scarf is GORG)...and HERE is Sasha modeling the one I gave to her over Thanksgiving...another really pretty pastel colorway.

Moving Right Along...

2007-01-30T23:53:00.000-05:00

Well...I finally finished Sasha's legwarmers, a very belated Christmas gift (as all of mine are). I'll admit, I wasn't too motivated to work on them b/c the large needles weren't fun for some reason, but now that they're done I think she will love them. Here they are:

...and here is a picture of Sasha wearing them, though the right one is upside down.

By the time these were finished, I'd done so much free pattern searching online that I had a million things I wanted to make. Among them, this tote bag. I figured I'd be felting it, so I'd have to use wool or the like. I was excited to go to Michael's and buy yarn, but then it occured to me how ridiculous that was since Zette had given me a huge stash of her unused yarn and, among it, some wool. The only wool in her stash was tan and black...good colors, but not exactly FUN. Still, it seemed silly to buy yarn when I had some, so I just bought some Paton's Classic Wool in Winter White and decided to make it a neutral bag. Here is stage one:

I'm really loving knitting with the bamboo needles and 100% wool yarn...SUCH a huge difference! I will post the pattern (modified) when it's all finished (in about 6 years).

Baby Steps

2007-01-11T01:29:00.000-05:00

On the advice of a new friend who has recently taught me to knit (or more specifically, to knit and purl), I've decided that it would be a good idea to document my projects since I have a feeling that this knitting thing is going to become part of my life for good. It was just last weekend that I learned to cast on, knit, and purl...and I found a project online that my friend said would be a perfect first project for a beginner: legwarmers. It's a basic knit/purl but the pattern was apparently unclear, so she very kindly altered it for me so they would come out just right. Legwarmers were something I've wanted to make for some time because I am a former professional ballet dancer (now teaching) and one of my best friends is still dancing, so a handmade pair of knitted legwarmers from MOI would be a PERFECT (albeit, belated) Christmas gift.

Anyway, after some fuck-ups and a few do-overs, I finally was able to finish one legwarmer and sew up the side seam. Granted, ALL of the yarn ends are still loose inside, but it's no fun weaving in the ends so I am unmotivated to do it. Besides, my BFF wants different colors than the one I made, so I have now started on that pair. Here are some pictures of my one lone legwarmer that I will forever be very proud of.

Pattern below the pics.

Size 11 needles
3 skeins of chunky yarn in 3 colors (A,B,C)

Cast on 35

Row 1: sl 1st st purlwise, K2, P1, to the end. You will end with a K1.
Row 2: sl 1st st purlwise, K1, P2, to the end. You will end with a K1.

Repeat to desired length as follows:

Color A: 8 rows
Color B: 6 rows
Color C: 4 rows
Color A: 5 rows
Color B: 3 rows
Color C: 5 rows
Color A: 6 rows
Color B: 4 rows
Color C: 3 rows
Color A: 5 rows
Color B: 3 rows
Color C: 5 rows
Color A: 6 rows
Color B: 4 rows
Color C: 3 rows
Color A: 5 rows

Bind off.
Join side seams using Mattress Stitch