What was she thinking?

Melissa Mathay did the Little Box of Sweaters which was all very classic designs. She has a new book coming out and What Was She Thinking?





I saw a program selection in TKGA's Cast Off mag that was built on a similar question and that is our program for Tuesday night. I have boxes of knitting that I did over the years. Some of it isn't the best quality because I was learning, but some is just plain ugly. I have lived through decades of fashion--go-go boots, paper dresses, every style of blue jean imaginable--but that's no excuse for some of the things I tried.

Well, I always say I learn more from failure than from success. I must be really smart.

I finished teaching my first beginner class in years last night. Six wonderful women who have started this journey and will continue it I believe. They seemed to have fun and be eager. Most bought some yarns to make some scarves or towels to practice their new skills. I love to see new knitters when they begin to believe they will really be able to do this. Invited them all to guild and hope they will come.

My April beginners class is half full, so maybe there are still some folks out there who want to learn. Maybe we can start another knitting boom.

OTN, the Stitch Diva sweater which needs sleeves, a lace shawlette which has a knitted on lace border (I much prefer to knit that border as I go; something I discovered with this pattern.) and yet another new sock design. This one uses an Estonia button stitch. I'm getting more interested in Estonian knitting. I've taken classes from both Merike Saarnit and Nancy Bush, so this is a belated effect of that.

Still some good books for sale and gobs of good magazines.

Classes for April and May

Beginning Knitting Tues. April 10 – 24; 6-7:30 pm $45
Instructor: Jane Prater
For the brand new knitter. Contact Jane if you are left handed.

Beyond Beginners Tues. May 8, 15, and 22; 6 -7:30 pm $45
Instructor: Jane Prater
If you have been knitting a year of more and want to increase your skills, then this is the class for you. By now you have questions and are ready for more interesting patterns. Those questions form the basis of this class.

Saturday classes:

Fair Isle Workshop April 14; 10:30am – 3:30 pm $65
Instructor: Jane Prater
For intermediate knitters. We will learn to strand, knit backwards, plan colors and start a sampler of patterns—bag or pillow—your choice.

Cables Workshop May 5: 10am – 12pm $25
Instructor: Jane Prater
Learn to knit some basic cabels and to read those funny looking charts.

Continental Knitting May 5: 1-3pm $25
Instructor: Jane Prater
Throw the yarn with your left hand and a new world of knitting will open. Faster and easier patterned stitches. Two handed color knitting will be easy.

Entrelac Workshop May 19; 10:30am – 3:30 pm $65
Instructor: Jane Prater
Learn the basics of entrelac; learn to knit backwards to make it easier; plan and begin your first project.

Email me (jprater@carolina.rr.com) if you have questions.

Reason to Knit

Fit is one reason I knit.

But I guess that doesn’t apply to everyone.








Just a thought.

Sock yarn; new stuff at home

It's not Friday, but that is Turtlegirl76's yarn pr0n day. This yarn is sort of her yarn since she made us all aware of it and negotiated a discount for her blog readers. Anyway this is Printed Circuit Board from Yarn Nerd. The yarn is named 900MHz; 100% superwash merino; 420 yards. The best thing about this yarn is the spin. His base yarn is crisp and yet still soft. It's a pleasure to knit.

I am using this yarn for yet another original sock design. I like this one very much. It uses an Estonian stitch that I discovered in an old afghan pattern by Nancy Bush. More later.

Underneath that yarn is my beautiful new floor. The owner who built this floor used yellow pine and then stained it dark, almost walnut. I had selected a slightly lighter stain. When we saw this sanded result, we quickly put a pale golden oak on it. It is rustic but beautiful. Almost beach-like. What a nice surprise.

Bye, bye Basement!!!

My new laundry closet is finished and the appliances are here. So far, I love them. I've washed everything I own. I am now going door to door in the neighborhood asking for extra laundry to do. The washer's handwash setting is perfect for all my handknit sweaters--even wool. Piper washed her cashmere sweater in her washer which is the big brother of mine and it worked beautifully.



My red cotton version of this Stitch Diva pattern is underway. I can't knit it as fast as I would like because my hands are aching a bit and cotton is hard on that. I do like the way they have written the pattern. It is clear and has little helps as you go. I also appreciate that the pattern is in a wide range of sizes. I'm using DK weight instead of worsted and so am knitting a larger size. That is always tricky, but because it is top down, I can try it on a bunch and make corrections as needed. My version won't be quite as young and hip as the picture, but I am looking forward to wearing it.

New Book; Sale book inventory; On the needles

I finally got an inventory and some pricing on my books for the craft sale. My blog readers get first dibs and then my students. After that complete strangers are welcome. I am too stupid to post a link without having to retype the list, so if you want a look, just respond or email me and I’ll shoot you a Word file. The Denise Needles I mentioned in my last entry are already gone.


I bought the new Amy Singer book because I live in the South. She has several opening chapters about the properties of non wool fibers which I need for my sweaters. Great charts that summarize the info and allow you to compare the yarns. The patterns are lovely, but were not my primary interest.
My fave is Intoxicating which combines a mosaic front with a different mosaic back and lace sleeves (Shouldn’t get bored knitting this.) I would soften the colors and maybe put the high contrast front pattern on the back. No need to draw any more attention to my boobs.


I also love Morrigan (no pic available) which is covered in small, crisp cable patterns and is knitted in Rowan’ Calmer.
I plan to buy Calmer and some hemp ASAP. Forget the vow of no new yarn. This is necessary!

Have started the Simple Knitted Bodice by Stefanie Japel which I bought from Stitch Diva. I’m doing it in (from the stash) bright red Super 10 cotton which means changing the gauge and adding some length for shrinkage. This project was supposed to be a simple “follow someone else’s pattern” but has turned out to require thought. I forgot the part about using the same yarn as the pattern to cut down on calculations, but I don’t want a worsted weight wool sweater.

New – and best ever—sock pattern underway. Also working on a lace shawl that is jerking my chain. Do not knit lace in dark handpaint. You can’t see it.

Success—Well, growth, anyway

I made pattern row markers. The first were a bit rough. I broke more beads than I left on the wire, and I just smashed the closures beyond recognition. (See first marker in pic) A quick visit with Turtlegirl76 and I was better informed.

My wire work gets better with each try and I am really having fun. I hope I don’t get too involved in beads. No new hobbies!!!!!!

I went through all my knitting books getting ready for my craft sale. I will post a list soon to give you an idea of what is available. Now to inventory the yarn. Needles are done. I will sell a set of Denise Needles that have never been used. My loom has been sold to a friend so I know it will have a good home. When things go to friends, it is so much easier to let them go.

Lots of workmen come today, so I’ll just sit and knit and answer questions. A hard life!

Row markers/sock yarns

Check out this picture.

These are pattern row counters made by Turtlegirl76. She gave me one. You put it on your needle at the beginning of the pattern work and then slip down a circle each row. You will always know which row of your pattern you are on. I had never used such a thing, and now I can’t knit without it.

I lost mine moving it from one sock to another. I ransacked the house in a total panic. I found it. Life was good again. No, lost it again between projects. Rediscovered it. Went to her old website and searched forever to find the entry where she tells you how to make them (even a video). Let me just give you the link (pattern row keepers) because YOU NEED THIS ITEM! Scroll down to October 18th.


I finished a new sock pattern using Tofutsies from SWTC.
50% Superwash Wool
25% SOYSILK brand fiber
22.5% Cotton
2.5% Chitin (made from
shrip and crab shells!) 
8 sts = 1"
needles: US 2 (2.75mm)
425m / 100g ball 
machine wash and dry
I can’t really decide whether I like it or not. I love the pattern, but the yarn seems too fragile. I don’t know that it is, but it seems that way. I may have knit too loose or maybe it’s just how lightweight the yarn is. I’m going to swatch the yarn some more and see what I think. I had loads left over from the 100g ball.

My favorite sock yarn is the Gem Merino Opal from Louet Sales. It is sport weight, so makes a bit thicker sock. But it has great stitch definition and knits up a bit faster than fingering weight. I found a bunch of colors on ebay at a nice price so I have loaded up. Expect some fair isle patterns soon.

It’s time to start planning next quarters classes. I may do a fair isle class. I’m surprised the mosaic class didn’t make, so I may rethink that and offer it again. If I offered intarsia, I would have a color trifecta. I’ll also help Remi with beginners which I think is always fun. Any feedback on this would be appreciated.

Lavold sweater/Making a Start/Furniture/

I have been knitting. Actually this is the second time I have knitted a sweater from this yarn. No, the actual same yarn. I frogged all but a bit of the other sweater. Then I did some cool things that I will explain as soon as I am finished. Just about three more inches around the body and some tubular bind offs. Maybe I can finish and wear it to guild tomorrow night. Learned a huge amount as always when I make big mistakes. This is Elsebeth Lavold Silky wool knitted on size 4s, and size 3s, and size 2s. More later.




I have made a start. I have sorted my needles and set aside some for my knitting attic sale. Next I will sort books. Finally I will tackle the yarn. Then I will advertise the sale and invite all the knitters I know to come knit and shop. Actually it should be fun. I might make a little money (to spend on new knitting stuff) and I will have the satisfaction of knowing the stuff went to a knitter, not just a bargain shelf somewhere.

I also plan to sell my loom. That was a hard decision, but I really don't weave anymore and I need the space. It is a Schacht Baby Wolf, with a high castle shelf and 8 harnesses. It's nice looking and weaves well. I'll throw in many accessories.




The chair arrived. I swapped the self fabric pillow for a red one and it looks great. Sits fine, too. It isn't as bright as the picture I bought it from and I was counting on that. The dogs haven't discovered it yet, so it is still clean. I think the red pillow intimidates them.


The Charlotte Knitting Guild meets tomorrow night. Check the side panel for the link. Join us.

Read this Book!!!!

I bought it around lunch time yesterday and finished reading it by lunch today. It is a phenomenal story about women and their support of each other. It's about the knitters you know and love. It's about joy, tragedy, humor, survival, growth--everything. And it is so readable. The author will be at Charlotte Yarn on the 9th from 1-3 and I cannot wait to meet her. I don't go to signings and I don't get off on meeting celebrities--except John Dominic Crossan. But I am going to this one to tell her she got it just right. I've been the stranger walking into groups of knitters many times, many retreats, trips, camps. They have all had this incredible spirit that I never get over being blown away by. Read this book!! Read the first chapter online at The Friday Night Knitting Club. You will not be sorry.

Just for Fun

What the Colinette Biker Babe wears to the prom

Check out this recently terminated blogsite that shows pics of really ridiculous patterns/looks that are seriously offered by pattern and yarn companies. Warning--the site is explicit and downright bitchy. Makes me laugh. I miss it. I may start posting some of my own finds that seem beyond the pale such as the one above.

You Knit What?

Also check out the photos at the Museum of Arts & Design (NYC) exhibition:

Radical Lace & Subversive Knitting

Enjoy.

I've Lost My Mind

I bought furniture on line! Sight unseen, never sat on. I have no idea what the fabric feels like. I only have a computer picture. I don't have patterned fabric anywhere in my house--just solid textures. What was I thinking?

I was thinking that I could save a lot of money($300). I was thinking that my daughter always is pleased by what she buys on overstock.com. I wasn't thinking that she usually buys books. I was thinking that the fabric was a possible room maker--or a room destroyer, but recovering was an easy thing. The shape was right, the size was right, but the final straw that sucked me in was that the shipping was $1.00. A dollar!! Pray for me. Here it is:



Starting an Einstein jacket for 5 year old grandson. Cascade Eco-wool in a dark brown. This is great mindless knitting. I need it for when I knit with Shelly, Jeanmarie and Pat. We laugh so much that I have to pull out most of what I knit. Garter stitch I might can handle.

Still knitting the purple Lavold. Still going well.



Bought a Stitch Diva pattern after seeing the sweater on Turtlegirl76. The neckline is what I wanted. I'll probably alter the sleeves-- shorter, less bell. I think I will make it in a solid. It calls for worsted which I have very little of in my stash. I may play with the math and make it in Classic Elite Provence. Will loose the exotic look which I love but which is a bit much for my plans. It is a top down pattern and I only knit top down for me. It is interesting to see how they structure the sweater as compared to how I do. Maybe I'll learn something neat.

Steve's Pool Socks

Not swimming pool or billiards, but color pools. That thing knitters usually avoid. So I knit a ribbed swatch, noticed the pooling and started to plan another stitch pattern. Steve, however, thought the spiral was neat and they are his socks, after all.

It's Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock in the Mineshaft colorway. My question is why did the legs pool in a spiral and the heel and feet have closer color repeats. The pooling effect fell apart at the heel start--lucky me. I assume the yarn is dyed in a long skein with the combination of repeats, but I'm not too happy about that. It simply means that if you are avoiding the pooling and trying to control the color in your design, you get an unhappy surprise about halfway through the skein. Could be a big bummer.

I've used their Gold Hill colorway and it has short repeats all the way through. I have some of the Black Purl to try, but I will study the dyeing before I wind it.

Bought the yarn from Anne Schout at her PlumFun Yarns site.

Gifts to Non-Knitters

In Athens, Georgia, friends of my older daughter pay me the nicest complement. When they discover they are pregnant, they tell hubby first and my daughter second. They expect a hat from me designed just for their child. It's an easy enough task and the real high I get from their joy is incredible.

Yesterday, E sent me a picture from a woman whose hat FINALLY fit her son. He's 3 now. Well, the hat was large and the child is small for his age. The neat part is that he's old enough to identify the chicks I embellished it with, and he likes them. I don't have permission to post the pic so I have blocked his face. But he is a beautiful young man who is brave enough to wear NC State regalia in Bulldawg country. (Those UGA fans are serious people!!!)

Winter Classes at Charlotte Yarn

Jane’s Winter Knitting Classes

Jan. 9, 16, 23 6-7:30 pm Beyond Beginners ($45)
Jan. 14 1-3 pm L-Shaped Scarf ($30)
Jan. 27, Feb. 3 10 am-12 pm Mosaic Knitting (Bag) ($45)
Jan. 28, Feb. 4 1-2:30 pm Caberet Bag ($35)

Feb. 17 10am-3:00pm Altering a Pattern to Fit You ($60)
Feb. 20, 27 6-7:30 pm Knitting Disasters and Creative Opportunies ($35)

Mar. 3, 10 10am-12 pm Beyond Beyond (New Class) ($45)
Mar. 4, 11, 18 10am-12 pm Top Down Summer Sweater ($65)
Mar. 13, 20, 27 6-7:30 pm Beyond Beginners ($45)

Design your own class -- For three or more knitters.
Choose a subject, a day and a time and Jane will teach your class. Email Jane to discuss arrangements. (jprater@carolina.rr.com) Put “knitting class” in the subject line.

CLASS DESCRIPTIONS


L-Shaped Scarf
A Merely a Suggestion pattern, this scarf is knitted using patchwork knitting techniques. Originally I attempted to make this scarf in stockinette stitch, but it was just too boring to knit. I love the work of Horst Schultz and was inspired to shape this scarf using techniques I learned from his books.

In this class you will learn how to:
1. manage a very long cast on
2. knit a mitered angle
3. add new yarn and weave in ends
4. use gauge to adapt this pattern to any yarn you choose

Materials needed:
Two skeins of Shine or @ 250 yds or sport wt. yarn
Optional: Complimentary yarns from your stash in small amounts
Size 24” circular needle size 9 or 10 (Any size that gets gauge!!)
Pattern is included.



Mosaic Knitting (Bag)
A very easy way to knit with two colors and create some lovely geometric designs. This technique is undergoing a renewed popularity somewhat because it is so much easier and speedier than fair isle.

In this class you will learn how to:
1. read a mosaic knitting chart
2. select color values to enhance your designs
3. fast and furious lining for a bag (Handsewn)
4. easy zipper insert technique (Handsewn)
5. design your own bag or knit the sample—or both

Materials needed: Smooth, worsted weight wool or wool blend yarn in a solid, light color, a dark color and an in-between color (Check your scrap basket!) , Size 7 or 8 needles, scissors, stitch markers, tapestry needle, tape measure, pencil and paper. Project yarn will not be needed until the second class.



Caberet Bag
Use this simple drawstring bag (a Merely a Suggestion pattern is included in the fee) to learn about mixing yarns and using double –pointed needles. Most of the bag can be knit on a 16” circular if you wish for speed. Merely a Suggestions pattern included. See samples in the shop.

In this class you will learn how to:
1. cast on and join yarn on a circular needle
2. create eyelets for a drawstring strap
3. attach new yarns, carry unused yarns, and weave in ends
4. use double pointed needles
5. close the bottom of any tube to create a bag or hat
6. create a twisted cord purse strap

Materials needed:
16” circular needle, size 6; dp needles, size 6
10 markers
1 skein solid DK or worsted yarn to serve as MC, 1 skein of two different novelty yarns to coordinate (or bits and pieces of your leftovers)
Scissors, tapestry needle, pencil and paper.


Altering a Pattern to Fit You
If you don’t custom fit it, why bother? Land’s End is cheaper and faster.

In this class you will learn how to:
1. measure for a knitted garment
2. make you swatch work for you
3. make a paper pattern to use as a check sheet
4. check their math (Sometimes patterns lie!)
5. re-figure the pattern for your gauge
6. shape the pattern to flatter you

Materials needed: a 4” by 4” swatch which has been washed and dried or blocked (use a yarn you are thinking of making a sweater from), pencil and paper, 12” ruler, measuring tape, a sweater or jacket pattern you really want to make (not an oversize fit); other supplies will be provided.


Knitting Disasters and Creative Opportunities
Error? Miscue?
Ripping out is the last resort. Learn to fix it, prevent it, adapt it, transform it—even embrace it.

In this class, you will learn how to :
1. recover from running out of yarn
2. integrate two different dye lots
3. recover dropped stitches
4. alter an incorrect stitch
5. change the length of a garment after it is finished
6. recycle yarn

Materials needed: Small amount of smooth, light-colored worsted weight yarn (like Cascade 220 or Encore); needles size 6. 7. or 8; tapestry needle, scissors, crochet hook size F, G, or H; HOMEWORK SWATCH.

Homework swatch: With smooth, light-colored worsted weight yarn (like Cascade 220 or Encore), cast on 15 sts.
Knit 10 rows of stockinette stitch.
On next right side row, K5, P1, K4, P1, K to end.
Continue in stockinette st for 6 more rows. DO NOT BIND OFF.

Beyond Beginners
You’ve knit scarves, shawls, place mats, dishcloths and every thing else you can think of which is rectangular. You need new shapes.

This class explores the techniques needed to make some curves. We also will attack the “little” questions you’ve been wondering about. This class is unique because the students determine the content.

We will begin with various ways to increase and decrease in order to shape a garment and make it fit. Topics chosen by previous classes to explore have included new cast ons, how to attach a new color, simple cables, correcting mistakes without ripping out, seaming pieces together, pattern reading techniques, solving the mystery of gauge, and others.

Prerequisites: Must be able to cast on, bind off, decrease and increase one way, knit and purl comfortably, and have completed at least one project.)

Materials needed: Smooth, worsted weight wool or wool blend yarn in a solid, light color. (Check your scrap basket!) , Size 7 or 8 needles, scissors, stitch markers, tapestry needle, tape measure, pencil.

Homework for the first class: Bring a knitted project, successful or disastrous, to show and tell.


Beyond Beyond
Designed for the experienced knitter, this class adopts the philosophy of Beyond Beginners. Students will determine the content of the class. Suggested techniques include grafting/Kitchener stitch; knitting backwards; alternations after the fact; picking up stitches evenly; error corrections; pattern/chart reading. Bring your knitting problems to class and we’ll all learn.

Materials needed: Smooth, worsted weight wool or wool blend yarn in a solid, light color. (Check your scrap basket!) , Size 7 or 8 needles, scissors, stitch markers, tapestry needle, tape measure, pencil and paper. Also bring any knitting problems or questions .



Top Down Summer Sweater
Did your last sweater project fit the way you wanted? For a perfect fit every time, knit from the top down.

Barbara Walker’s book Knitting from the Top Down is a classic. In this book she describes how to knit a sweater of any design without being tied to someone else’s numbers and without having to wait until it is finished to discover IF it fits. We will knit a mini version of a top down sweater, and then get you started on a summer shell of your choice.

In this class you will learn how to:
1. take the measurements you really need for a sweater
2. shape an armhole
3. shape any type neck
4. add short rows for a larger bust
5. define a waist
6. decide on your perfect length

Materials needed: Smooth, worsted weight wool or wool blend yarn in a solid, light color. (Check your scrap basket!) , Size 7 or 8 needles, scissors, stitch markers, tapestry needle, tape measure, pencil and paper. Sleeveless sweater patterns of your choice and yarn for project will be discuss in first class. Barbara Walker’s book is highly recommended.

When in doubt, LISTEN!

There they were--two skeins of Lorna's Laces Vera. Stunning. Gorgeous. The fuschia popped and the green, brown and pale whatever were a solid foundation. Great socks were just ahead.

I cast on and did a very flat 4X1 rib. I knit both cuffs, both heels, half a foot on each and just could stand it no longer. They just lay there in my lap--no life, no pop, no fun. I felt I had killed a beautiful colorway. Why hadn't I suspected stockinette was death to this yarn?

I frogged.

Then I swatched!!! Entrelac was attractive, but too complicated for the moment. Also too many entrelac patterns floating around in cyberspace. I wanted something a bit more mindless and new. I needed a solid to pop this yarn. Apple green--well, I have been fixated on the chartreuse/apple green section of the color wheel. I knit a small swatch.


Small swatches lie!!

I knit both cuffs, both heels, half a foot on each and just could stand it no longer. They were ugly--no, they were butt-ugly. I knew they were this ugly four inches into the first sock, but I hoped the pattern would grow on me. Well, it did resemble lichen in a certain light. I couldn't gift these ugly socks, not even to an enemy; I couldn't offer them as a pattern, not even a free one; I couldn't even keep them to wear because I don't wear UGLY socks.

Plan C. First we frog, gently this time. While knitting the ugly ones, I would sometimes goof and leave out the second row of green. I had to correct this several times. Subconscience calling????? I actually liked the error. At least I think I did. What to do--knit this new pattern until I have two almost finished socks and then decide -- OR -- knit a big swatch, wrap it around my leg and check it out. Naw-w-w-w. Compromise; knit the first cuff and look at it for a few days before committing.

Then either I knit the socks or burn the yarn. Stay tuned.

JDP, Knitter and Contractor

Holidays are coming. The local paper had a big article about the Darren McGaven movie "The Christmas Story." It's a big fave in my family. We watch it every year. The first year DGS#1 was around, we watched it and then I gave DD#1 a package to open. It was a rabbit suit just like the pajamas in the movie. It was an old Lion Brand Kit, but the point was to laugh not to impress. He wore it for Halloween for two years. This year DGS#2 wore it. I do have a picture of that to share.



Someday he'll hate me for this.

Where have I been? Well, I just don't think I can write if I don't have pictures and I always forget to take them. I've been working on some patterns that I may submit somewhere and can't post pictures yet, so that makes me even more reluctant to blog.

Enough excuses. Pass me my toolbelt--the one with the screwdrivers. I have been spending time with moisture control guys and heating specialists as I get ready to fix up the house. I'm also watching every home show on TV. This takes time, but can be done while knitting. I want my very own nailgun. What power! Want a bookcase? Just simple measurements and straight cuts and then KAPOW, KAPOW, KAPOW with the nailgun and it's done. It's all about the tools.

I only have a drill. I use it to wind bobbins for weaving. Oh how sadly underexposed I've been to the world of power tools. No more. Stay tuned for adventures.

I'm playing with my class schedule for next year. I'm planning a Mosaic Knitting class where the students get started on a bag I've designed. It's been fun to try new patterns and plan the sequence for the class. I also want to do mistake class; of course, most of that is really a planning not to make mistakes class. Other topics under consideration include couture cast-ons, knit to fit workshops, another lace shawl, knitting with handdyes. Of course I'll offer my favorite Beyond Beginners and maybe even a Beyond Beyond. I think skill/technique classes are the best to teach. People are so often shocked at how creative they really are.

To be or not to be?????

ARGHHHHHHHHHH! This house thing has me just stunned--gobsmacked as the Brits say. DH thinks we can build a new house for X dollars. Wonderful architect comes and says 3X dollars. Dear friend who is realtor says 3X dollars. Jane says Whoa!

So, Plan M. M may be for moisture. The guy comes tomorrow to check for mold and moisture damage---and he will find it. DH says is won't cost much to fix. I've lost faith in DH's ability in this area. The guy is a creative genius of engineering, aviation, cycling, F1 racing and Shakespeare. He don't know nuthin' about buildin' houses.

I've decided to fix this one up as I would to sell it, but then not. I'm going to put my laundry upstairs somewhere and then just be happy. It's as simple as that.

Once that decision was made, I could knit again. In fact, patterns are jumping up all over in my brain. I have several sock patterns in mind and some wristlets. I made Jake a sweater (See opening photo) since he has been groomed and no longer has his Wookie-hair to keep him warm. Last walk Henry peed on Jake's head, so I guess a hat is next for him.

I've knit 10 mini-sweaters and two mini-socks for my Christmas tree. Pictures are on the guild's blog. I really enjoyed teaching the program. The socks are just plain old 24 st socks and work up quickly. Use your leftover yarn.

Finished and Almost Finished

Finally I am knitting a Dale sweater for a DGS. Dalegarn book #142. I fell in love with the cowheads which may show up on other projects. The braided cast on that I used really flips up. I hope the blocking will control that. If not, plan B. I love the colors. They are soft and gentle but still boyish. Also hope he gets two years wear out of this. Lots of leftover yarn which will go into socks.

Speaking of socks . . .

. . .finished another pair. This is the combo of Cherry Tree Hill supersock and a solid Louet gem merino that I started as part of the pre-med procedure. I really love this Birches colorway from CTH. I can't wear these colors near my face, so they go on my feet. The Gem Pearl is fern green. I also have some mustard and some goldilocks which will work well with this. Enough is left over to make another pair for someone else. Maybe stripes.

Last picture of the Austrian socks. I include it because they are finished and because Candace Eisner Strick has a pattern in the new issue of Knitters. The pattern calls for using a cable needle to twist the stitches. This is not how Candace really does it, but her way, while faster and easier, is harder to explain. Take her class on this technique. She is amazing, as is the stitch definition on this technique.

Check her website Strickwear. I bought the Merging Colors Pretty Picot Shoulder Scarf kit in Purple Passion, but haven't started it yet. The yarn is lovely.

Dogs and Docs

Well, I survived the beach trip with only a wounded liver. Didn't get all that much knitting done. Wonder why?

This past week was filled with medical pursuits. I had the "nose thing" removed by this really neat lady doc in incredible stilletos. Seriously these were like Jimmy Choos or something. Five inch heels and open toes. She had great legs. too. More power to her. I, of course, asked about them. How many doctors work all day in hooker shoes? She confessed an out of control obsession which harms no one else. This is a doc you could look forward to visiting just to see the shoes.

Second doc is not one to revisit, but he was very sweet. It was time for the colonoscopy and EGD or whatever. Anyway they video the digestive track from teeth to tail. Slept through it so the "taping" was not a problem. It is the prelim that will kill you. Under no circumstances should you choose the Lemon-Lime flavor of the trilyte. Never. Oh my lord is it awful?????? Everything seems to be pretty much okay. He put me on Prilosac. Even mounds of knitting isn't keeping the stomach acid at bay.

Speaking of -- in my nervousness and lack of food on fast day before the big event, I started another pair of socks. These are a combo of Cherry Tree Hill supersock and a solid Louet gem merino. I knit both cuffs that day and have finished the heels--Lucy Neatby's garter st ones. I'm almost through with the second foot. Most of the sock is just stockinette. The yarn is pretty enough to stand on its on and I wasn't in the mood to think at all. I'll post pics as soon as they are finished.

Went to South Carolina today and brought home a rescue dog for Henry. They called him Jake and I think the name may stick. He's a Shih Tzu mix, 5 years old, and with serious dental misalignment. He's healthy and really quite sweet. Meghan laughed at him, but I didn't send that child to cotillion as a teen and I've regretted it ever since. He's made himself right at home, took to his bed like a champ and napped all day. Henry's adorable little 20 watt brain is just not quite sure what is going on or whether he likes it, but he'll come around. Steve doesn't say much but grins a lot and clearly is enjoying the boy.

I'll have to knit Jake a coat before the weather gets really bad. That should be fun.

Knitting at the Beach

Finished the red sock which is the mother of all socks. Great yarn, great fit, fun techniques. I married Louet gem merino with Candance Eisner Strick's Austrian Traveling Stitches and Lucy Neatby's garter st heel and toe. I love this sock. I love the heel and the toe and the design. I love the wool.
This is the perfect sock.
For the Austrian Stitches, you really need to take Candance's class. There isn't a book. And I've not seen an instruction that was really the sharply defined, traditional technique. Sorry.

The toe and heel are described in an article on the Interweave Knits website. Very clear instructions. The heel and toe are thick which I find a plus for winter in sandals and clogs.


The Swallowtail shawl from the fall IK is also finished and hanging at Charlotte Yarn to advertise the class which starts October 5th. This one is made from the Misti Alpaca on a size 4 needle. It, as intended, is small, more a suit shawl. Others have knit this pattern and been very happy with it in Silky Wool (#8) or Brown Sheep Handpaint (#9). Those two came out more normal shawl size. I think there is a new deep purple one in my future. PlumFun yarns got a new shipment of Silky Wool with a deep deep purple that I covet.

Wild Dunes is beautiful and the weather is great. Lots of laughter. We brought out own food to the beach cottage. I would share more, but we have agreed that what happens at the beach stays at the beach. The second beer run was less that one day after arrival.