Rooty, that looks lovely. It's such an attractive pattern and it looks incredibly neat too; much better than the bobbles I'm doing on the Baby Tart hat (which I'm hoping will look better once it's blocked).

It's funny how many people knit flat fabric on circular needles. I prefer the straights, myself, but I do like the feel of the Addi Turbos for knitting in the round.

I love that stitch Rooty...it's gorgeous. What do you mean by inserting a lifeline?

I'm not too keen on circular needles myself. The main reason being is that they do not fit the way I like to hold my needles. I like to take my right hand off the right needle to wrap the yarn over, therefore leaving it resting on my leg which keeps it held up in the split second absence of my hand. I knit really fast this way....can't knit the 'textbook' way. Because of this reason I find it very hard and very uncomfortable to use circulars. The other reason I don't like them is because one of the first times I used them, the flexible plastic bit snapped and I lost all my work.

...What do you mean by inserting a lifeline?...
I'll answer that, because I think Rooty's gone offline.

If you have a look at Rooty's photos, you'll see a yellow thread running through the stitches. That's the lifeline. It allows you to take the work off the needles if you make a mistake, and frog the stitches back to where you inserted the lifeline. The lifeline runs through a row of stitches, so it's like having a very fine extra needle inserted there keeping the stitches from unraveling.

Once you've frogged down to the lifeline, you can easily slip the stitches back onto the needles and start again from that position.

Aaaaaaahh! I need lots of lifelines! Until now I've never been able to understand how people can just rip back to a certain point and reknit without ripping the whole thing out.

What a brilliant idea - I've never come across that before. Do you just run a thread through the stitches using a darning needle or is there another way to do it - would think the darning needle would be quite hard if you had a lot of stitches on the needles. I'll try this if ever my thumb gets to the stage where I can knit again.:(

Heres (http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g51/rooty2/DSCN0840.jpg) what i'm working on at the moment. Its the back of a baby cardi for my baby sister. So pleased i'm off the p3tog, k1,p1,k1 into 1 stitch. The p3tog were getting very annoying. I do love the look of the stitch it makes though, heres a close up (http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g51/rooty2/DSCN0841.jpg) (abit blurry though) i think its a lovely bobbly stitch.

I know its abit premature to be posting a picture of not very much...but its quite good progress for me, to say i started on tuesday. (thats good for me)

Hecate you've started me off on something suggesting knitting the border of the blanket on a circular needle, i'm now knitting everything on an addi turbo circular!! I just prefer knitting on one, and if you want to insert lifelines (which im not doing very often with this pattern) its sooo much easier on a circular if you move the work to the 'wire'.

Thats looking lovely:D How do you inseft lifelines BTW Ive always wondered:D

Thats looking lovely:D How do you inseft lifelines BTW Ive always wondered:D
I generally just thread some contrasting yarn onto a tapestry needle and thread it along the stitches that are currently on the needle. Dental floss works well too. I don't use them very often, though I probably should, the mistakes I make.

Thanx for nice comments, must get back to knitting it soon, as i'm back at work at 3 :(

Lifelines...Hecate answered the questions fine :) . Just to add, i always use sewing thread, maybe the type you use in cross stitch - sorry haven't done cross stitch since i was about 9! I use a tapestry needle, the smaller the better though obviously, as it has to fit through the small space between knitting needle and the stitches on the needle - can be a right slow process if you knit tight (i knit abit tight). Thats why i said knitting on a circular is great for inserting lifelines as if you do it on the 'wire' then it hangs loosely and is so easy to run a tapestry needle through it. I think they're a great idea! And always insert them if i've done a difficult part and don't want to do it again (like the p3tog) or like on my blanket with lace, after each repeat i inserted one (very slow process)as i find it real hard to put work back on needles if ripping some out and with lace in it, pretty much impossible!

I've just finished the cushion i've been working on for just over a week, I started out just knitting, didn't really know what I was making, then it turned out to be this :lol: The pattern in the wool is actually a raised diamond pattern but you can't tell in the photo really, it's 16 inches square.

here (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/af921477.jpg)


I think i'm going to have a go at one of the K9knitters dog coat patterns Carrie has sent me next.

I like that, beansforyou. I don't know if it looks that way in the flesh, but the middle section looks very much like canvas work; it looks a littloe like tightly-packed cross stitch.

You've knitted really swiftly to get that finished in just over a week too. You'll be on to the Clapotis next :) . Mmm, sweet silk and merino wool Clapotis... [insert Homer-esque drool.]

It's actually reverse lattice stitch (ark at me :lol: I couldn't tell purl from knitwit a month ago) I did lattice stitch then when it was finished I decided I preferred the 'wrong' side as with the yarn being quite chunky you couldn't make much of the pattern out on the 'right' side. In real life there is a raised diamond pattern running through that whole block.

I've got knit fever i'm sure - i've just started having a go at the dog coat.

I've got loads of yarn you see, but I don't think any of it is expensive (apart from a heap of Jeager I picked up in a charity shop) so i'm getting to grips with the basics whilst using it all up :)

...I've got loads of yarn you see, but I don't think any of it is expensive (apart from a heap of Jeager I picked up in a charity shop) so i'm getting to grips with the basics whilst using it all up :)
How come I never find anything like that at charity shops? :roll:

As you're starting to really get into it, can I suggest that you think about buying the Vogue Knitting (http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/193154316X/026-3482425-8395650?v=glance&n=266239&s=gateway&v=glance) book? It's a bit on the expensive side (though it's 34% off at Amazon at the minute), but it's got everything you'll ever want to know. The section about the various increases and decreases and where to use them is especilly useful. The illustrations are excellent too.

As I've been away, Clapotis couldn't come with me but I did take Widdershins. Socks are so portable and easy to fit a few rows in aren't they?

Well I fitted a few more than a "few" in and here they are.......All finished (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/widdershinsblocked.jpg) and on (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/widdershinsactionshot.jpg)

I used Lucy Neatby's Celestial Dream in Seashell. The yarn has a lovely soft feel and the sheen is just beautiful. I hope they wear well. I dread the holey heels syndrome!

They look absolutely gorgeous! I love the pattern and the Lucy Neatby yarn is perfect. It hasn't pooled either, has it? You've just got the subtle mottled effect that you need from a variegated yarn.

Your sock knitting skills put mine to shame. I'm really impressed :) .

As I've been away, Clapotis couldn't come with me but I did take Widdershins. Socks are so portable and easy to fit a few rows in aren't they?

Well I fitted a few more than a "few" in and here they are.......All finished (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/widdershinsblocked.jpg) and on (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/widdershinsactionshot.jpg)

I used Lucy Neatby's Celestial Dream in Seashell. The yarn has a lovely soft feel and the sheen is just beautiful. I hope they wear well. I dread the holey heels syndrome!

They look lovely Turra - did you find out how to resize as they are one of my possible projects. Look out later for a photo of the Zig Zig scarf (before blocking) and a piccy of the dragon sock with the heel done - said I would do them:D

You should find a couple of images of the Zig Zig scarf now its finished here (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/Picture011.jpg) and here (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/Picture010.jpg) - couldnt model it as I have noone to take the photo at the mo:D Its made from one skein of Lornas Laces Shephard Worsted in Watercolour from this (http://www.lloydknitting.com/zig_zag_lace_scarf_and_stole.htm) pattern. I think the yarn really suits the pattern with the subtle pooling enhancing the design. Its not a long scarf but long enough and Im really pleased with it. Just got to block it now:D

I adore that colourway. I also like the way on the first picture the colours seem to be in squares over the "zigs". I bet it's going to get loads of comments.

It's lovely :) . It's nice to see that colourway in a different yarn too and see that it's equally pretty in something other than the Lion and Lamb used for Clapotis.

You're right about the subtle pooling enhancing the design. It emphasises the little blocks of lace beautifully.

Turra21 - Socks lovely, love the yarn colour!!

Lisa - Scarf is also lovely, its a really nice pattern and i agree the yarn sets it off really well

At long, long last here's a photo of the Babytart hat (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/BabyTart.jpg) in progress, complete with all those bloody bobbles! I've just started on the decrease rounds, so the end is finally in sight.

It's a nice pattern, but all those K3 tog for the bobbles is a bit wearing, especially for someone who knits fairly tightly.

The blackberry Babytart hat is done. Here (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Hats.jpg) it is along with the Pumpkin hat I finished ages ago.

Excuse the quaility of the photo; the orange isn't that eyball-searingly bright in reality. I had to use the fill-flash whatsit in Photoshop because the blackberry colour was far too dark.

They also look a bit mis-shapen, as I've yet to block them.

They're so cute!

I saw alot of these tiny hats in a lovely baby shop in St ives last week, the strawberry one caught my eye (I daren't look at the prices though!)

They're great well done :)

Those hats are so cool Hecate! Well done they look great!

I finished my Jaywalkers (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/jaywalkers004.jpg) yesterday. As they were a gift I made a gift pouch (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/jaywalkers2001.jpg)from the left over yarn. I love the picot edge (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/jaywalkers2003.jpg):love: I'll tie it round with a thin piece of blue ribbon to match the yarn. I think this pattern is so effective but so simple to do. Grumperina is one clever lady!!
There could be a few more jaywalkers in my repertoire!

Very nice :) . Is that Opal yarn, turra?

The Jaywalkers are addictive. I've made two pairs now and I've got another skein of Cherry Tree Hill which has the Jaywalker name on it.

I love the picot edge on the pouch. It's really simple but very effective. I've done two cardis which have used it as edging - it really adds a distinctive touch.

Very nice :) . Is that Opal yarn, turra?


Yes, It was Opal Prisma. I erred on the side of caution because the recipient is a student friend of my daughter. And I thought it needs to be machine washable for long lasting life!!!

They are lovely Turra, so precise!

I still haven't delved into the realms of socks :lol: maybe one day when i'm feeling particularly brave.

Here's (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Knucks1.jpg) the current project: Knucks (http://knitty.com/ISSUEsummer06/PATTknucks.html) from Knitty. The thumb section has gone a little awry, and they're a bit fiddly, but it's interesting knitting them from the fingers down.

They're very nice, I like the colour. Will yours say anything on the knuckles?

They're very nice, I like the colour. Will yours say anything on the knuckles?
The colour's better in natural light. I'll post another photo when the first one is done.

I don't think I'll add anything to the knuckles. I quite like the embroidered vines/flowers on the pair pictured in the pattern, but I reckon I might leave the embelishing for another pair.

Was it difficult to do these fingers down? Do you do all the fingers separately the join them on? These look difficult - so why are you having trouble with the magic loop?:hihi:

Was it difficult to do these fingers down? Do you do all the fingers separately the join them on? These look difficult - so why are you having trouble with the magic loop?:hihi:
I can manage anything - as long as it's knitted on bamboo DPNs :D .

You knit each of the fingers seperately then line them up and join them on the next round. The thumb is added a few rounds later, then the thumb gusset follows with a series of SSK and K2tog.

It isn't really difficult, but it is fiddly in places. Knitting the fingers is straightforward, as long as you're used to knitting small diameters on DPNs. It becomes a bit tricky during the finger-joining rounds. There isn't much room for manoeuvre when dividing the newly-joined stitches onto three or four DPNs.

The Rowan wool cotton yarn is rather nice, incidentally. It's soft with a lovely sheen.

Well i've been busy this week :lol:

I've made two scarves (can't post photo's as they're gifts for people who also use SF ;) ) and i'm just making a small bag in the same yarn as one of them, thats the knitting side for now.

Spinning - i've dyed some batches of the Finn fleece, blue, purple and candyfloss pink. I've spun the purple but not plyed it yet, can't decide what to ply it with.
I've also dyed some of my Merino, it's come out a lovely dusty pink colour, which i've spun, and then plyed with some spun white Merino Here (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/32e9b14f.jpg) I've got two hanks of this, both around 30gramm each.

I've also just got an Alpaca Fleece I won on ebay this week, not opened the bag yet as i'm saving that for a day when I feel like i've got alot of energy! because its complete with twigs/muck etc lol

Next on the list will be deciding what to ply my dyed Finn with this is the purple, not a great picture (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/aaa47224.jpg)

I love the colours, especially the purple. Seeing how well the Kool-Aid dyeing works, you certainly wouldn't want to drink the stuff :hihi: . Does the wool end up smelling rather fruity by the end of the process?

Here's the first completed glove (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Knucks2.jpg) from the Knucks pattern. I decided to go for the textured cuff instead of the rib, though it does make it a little less stretchy. The cast-off is single crochet, which gives a nice neat appearence. I think I did it a little too tightly though. It's meant to have a crab stitch border on top of the single crochet, but I rather like the simplicity of how it looks without the edging.

Not bad for a first attempt at the pattern, but the odd loose stitch here and there is testament to its fiddly nature in places.

That looks good Hecate:D Oh and hark at you with your crochet and fancy stitches:hihi:

Just looking at those fingers makes me go dizzy :rolleyes: You must have the patience of a saint! and i'm not even going to comment on the crocheting, you've done such an amazing job there.

And no, Kool Aid will definately not be on the menu in my house :lol:

I've just been to Coles and bought some bits and bobs to finish off the little pouch i'm making for my sisters scarf, and they have a lovely little sewing pouch/book covered in a heavy damask kind of material, complete with scissors pins etc, for a fiver! of course I had to buy one :lol:

I got some Debbie Bliss Cotton Angora for £1.95, one in white and one in black, i'll dye the white and use the black for plying with something bright i've spun.

I do like that Hecate, especially the cuff. Do they fit well? (you're gonna say like a glove aren't ya :P )

I do like that Hecate, especially the cuff. Do they fit well? (you're gonna say like a glove aren't ya :P )
Why thank you :) . Actually, I think I did the cast-off a little too tight, so it's a bit of a tight squeeze to get them on. The glove itself fits perfectly once it's on. I reckon if I'd done a stretchier cast-off they would have been perfect - apart from the few dodgy stitches here and there which we won't mention :hihi: .

That looks good Hecate:D Oh and hark at you with your crochet and fancy stitches:hihi:
LOL First time doing a crochet cast-off, so I've got to mention it :hihi: .

I really like those Hecate. Soo cool

Here's a few pics of things i've been working on this past week.

I finished a Scarf (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/Picture134.jpg) and decided to make a little Bag (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/Picture133.jpg) for it to go in, which was my first item made with DPN's :) it took alot longer than the scarf lol.

I've been busy dying a lot of fibres, Merino roving and some organic fleece I bought in Penzance which is from sheep on Bodmin Moor (I love Bodmin..jamaica inn..etc) this is my work table (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/Picture121.jpg) currrently with some of my fibres drying.

Here are some of the fibres i've been spinning this week, sorry the pics are a bit fuzzy. This (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/Picture127.jpg) is some Finn fleece I bought from winghams, which i've dyed,there are about four colours in that ball.

This (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/Picture126.jpg) is also some Finn, but only two colours.

As you can see i've invested in a wool winder, the best £12 i've ever spent! Although I like the look of yarn in hanks, it's then got to be balled up by some poor soul (ie. Me) This (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/Picture129.jpg) is a hank I made last week, but I haven't had the heart to ball it yet, I like the way it looks :lol:

Nearly done...keep with me lol

This (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/Picture131.jpg) is a bag I have just completed today. I knitted the body whilst on holiday (always fun in the tent) and with some help from my mum and my sewing machine it's been lined (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/Picture132.jpg) and finished off today. It's a bit hard to make out because of the colours of the yarn. I also made the button out of the same material as the lining and the flap (A recycled indian wrap).

So erm, yeah..been kinda busy :lol: I think I might take to this yarn lark...

Wow. I'm drooling at the sight of all that yarn! I absolutely adore the pale blue and pale orange colour. Have you thought of selling some of your hand-dyed and spun stuff on Ebay?

I love the idea of going somewhere, buying something so inherent to the place, then bringing it back to make something beautiful. A little bit of a Cornish sheep in your house :) .

Where did you buy your wool winder from? I've been threatening to to buy one for ages.

Well...

I wasn't going to say anything until it was here and all hunky dory, but.

I've bought myself a spinning wheel!

It's an Ashford traditional, I've been saving up for one and was just waiting for the right one to come along and it did (ebay) like I say i'm just waiting on delivery.

Then, I might start selling some of my yarns. At the moment with the drop spindle it's difficult to make enough of one batch to warrant selling (in my opinion, people do sell small hanks on there though, good for arts and felting I guess) At the moment my yarn tends to be quite chunky (because I like it) and 40 gram is averaging out around 30 yards.

Actually scratch that, I just don't have the confidence to sell any yet! :blush:

The wool winder was also an ebay purchase, theres always quite a few on and go for around a tenner.

Well...

I wasn't going to say anything until it was here and all hunky dory, but.

I've bought myself a spinning wheel! ...
Brilliant! I'm sooo jealous. I'm expecting loads of piccies once you've set it up. Now, how about writing a spinning tutorial? ... ;)

Eek! Writing a tutorial...

i've just spent an hour teaching my mum how to spin using the drop spindle, I think i'm a pretty terrible tutor, but she thinks i've got the patience of a saint, so we get there in the end.

I've said it before and I swear by it, you can't beat actually sitting with someone and watching them spin. If you do find reading is your way then Winghams sell a brilliant little booklet that they publish which has everything in it you need to know, I think it's a couple of pounds. Then there's the online videos and such.

It's like anything else, practise, practise, get it wrong, throw it across the room, practise.. it gets alot easier as you go along, you get a ''feel' for what your working with. watching my mum fighting with the rolag this afternoon brought it all back to me :lol: you've really got to relax into it.. 'Be the Yarn...' :lol:

Once the wheel arrives i've got to put it back together :suspect: it could go oh so wrong oh so quickly :rolleyes:

I honestly don't think I could add anything more about either spinning or dying using kool aid, that you can't find on Knitty or joy of handspinning, but if you can get up to Winghams and spend an hour with Ruth, that'd be brilliant!

Actually come to think of it, I find the instructions for hand dying yarn on the net a bit long winded, I did kind of follow what has been said before, but as i've gone along i've found this is the easiest method for dying a batch of fibre the same colour:

1. Use 1 sachet of Kool Aid - 1oz of fibre.

2. Soak Fibres in clean warm water, just sit the fibres on top of the water and leave it to sink, don't stir!

3. Get a zip-lock bag (sandwich bag) empty sachet/s of Kool Aid in and add water, enough to submerge the fibres. Zip up and give it a swish around to mix the powder.

4. gently squeeze out excess water from fibres, then drop into the zip lock bag, give it another genlte squish to make sure fibre is submerged.

5. place the Zip Lock bag in a microwave proof bowl, just to keep it stable. Do Not Zip up the bag, leave it open at the top.

6. microwave for 2 minutes at a time, until the water has gone clear. put on the side and leave to cool.

I find three 2 minute zaps is usually enough for around 50gram of fibre. If it isn't clear by then, you can always just leave it on the side and the remaining kool aid does dissapear.

Once it's cooled down, rinse in clean water, which is about the same temp. as the water in the zip lock bag.

put somewhere to dry.

If your mixing your colours (tie dying etc) on yarn, then it's a bit more fiddly and Knitty explains it really well, you don't want to end up with alot of sludge brown yarn!

Don't worry. My tongue was in my cheek :) . Just keep us informed on how it goes. I was serious about the piccies though :P .

Here are a couple of things.
Firstly Booga Bag. It's actually already knit, but needs felting. This is before (http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y247/blondgirl1978/Knitting/P9100010.jpg) I began felting, and this is after the second cycle (http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y247/blondgirl1978/Knitting/P9170001.jpg). I'm doing one more cycle then blocking it.
To block it, you're supposed to dry over a cardboard box of the same size, but since I have none here, I'll have to go over a baby wipes box. I hope its the right size! you leave it to dry for a couple of days. I hope it'll dry in less time though.
And this is a cushion cover (http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y247/blondgirl1978/Knitting/P9170002.jpg) I'm knitting. its a stylecraft aran pattern, no. 4961 and I've done it in woodsmoke. My first go at both cables and bobbles.

Just spotted the dyeing instructions, beansforyou. Thanks :) . I'm going to copy them and give them their own thread, so they don't get lost in this one.

That cushion cover looks amazing bex, reminds me a little of the tree of life :)

I like the Booga bag, I don't know how I feel about felting, after doing all that hard work, making it smaller seems almost sacrilige! :lol: But your colours are lovely, great for autumn.

I really like the Booga bag, and especially the colours. I like the cushion too, though after doing what felt like hundreds of bloody bobbles for the blackberry hat I finished a couple of weeks ago, the sight of them still makes my fingers ache :hihi: .

I'm going to have an adventure into felting too. I went to John Lewis in Nottingham this morning, ostensibly to look for art and embroidery supplies for college. Inevitably, I ended up in the lovely, lovely yarn section. I bought a copy of the new Rowan Felted Collection, and four balls of Scottish Tweed DK to make a felted hot water bottle cover (pic to follow when I can find one).

Yes, I know making a hot water bottle cover sounds a bit fuddy duddy, but believe me, this one is beautiful. I'm nesh too, so I always have at least one hot water bottle in bed with me in winter, so it's going to come in very useful :D .

Here (http://www.colourway.co.uk/rowan/felcol/felcol.htm) you go. The hot water bottle cover is the one with the row of little hearts.

Well, I had planned to start work on the items already in my 'stuff to do' list, but the 'Ember' hot water bottle cover was crying out to me...

So, here's (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Hearts1.jpg) the first progress picture. I haven't done any intarsia for ages, so I'm very out of practice. As such, the hearts are a little wonky, but not too bad. I have three more rows of them (another on the front and two more on the back) to get them up to scratch.

I love the colours, pink & purple being favourites of mine :)

I can't get the website to show me the bigger picture, but All the patterns in that range look lovely, kinda Boho meets Mary Poppins :)

One day I will follow a pattern, and it might be one of them...

Well, I had planned to start work on the items already in my 'stuff to do' list, but the 'Ember' hot water bottle cover was crying out to me...

So, here's (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Hearts1.jpg) the first progress picture. I haven't done any intarsia for ages, so I'm very out of practice. As such, the hearts are a little wonky, but not too bad. I have three more rows of them (another on the front and two more on the back) to get them up to scratch.

Thats quite pretty Hecate. Once felted though any wonkiness will be hidden wont it?

Thats a lovely design. I'm yet to try intarsia.
I need a hot water bottle cover actually, cos mine is bald.

here (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/Picture042.jpg) is some more Yarn thats just been set and dried.

This again is the Finn thats been plied, then died using Kool Aid, Grape, Strawberry and erm... a pink one :lol: might have been pink lemonade.

Close Up (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/Picture036.jpg)

It's my first successful go at blending colours, i'm pretty pleased with it, there is 150gram, can't remember the yardage at the moment.

It was spun whilst my wheel still had all the old bits on, and needed a bit of a servicing, as it was clunky with three big knots in the drive belt etc.

I've gone today and bought a maintenance kit and it has all new bits on now, and spins really smoothly, I can't believe the difference!

Hope you like it :)

here (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/Picture042.jpg) is some more Yarn thats just been set and dried.

This again is the Finn thats been plied, then died using Kool Aid, Grape, Strawberry and erm... a pink one :lol: might have been pink lemonade.

Close Up (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/Picture036.jpg)

It's my first successful go at blending colours, i'm pretty pleased with it, there is 150gram, can't remember the yardage at the moment.

It was spun whilst my wheel still had all the old bits on, and needed a bit of a servicing, as it was clunky with three big knots in the drive belt etc.

I've gone today and bought a maintenance kit and it has all new bits on now, and spins really smoothly, I can't believe the difference!

Hope you like it :)

That is rather beautiful - and Im not normally a pink person:D

Thanks :)

It still feel a bit coarse, but with more practise that will change hopefully! Also the Finn isn't as silky as say merino, which i'm spinning now.

I've taken a better photo (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/Picture044-1.jpg) in daylight, as I thought the other one was a bit glaring, the colours are much softer really, and i've made it into one hank now, which measures 246'.

It's absolutely lovely! I'm well impressed :) . Right, next trip to Winghams you're bring me back a spinning wheel ;) .

Beans, that is beautiful. I love the colours they are so me! Can I put my order in?
It must be so satisfying to look at and handle the finished product and think "I made that". I can't wait to see what you will knit it into.
Well done.

Thankyou for the nice feedback, it's really cheered me up :)

I've had a bit of an awful day, came off the motorbike turning it round on my road, luckily I was going really slowly and just kind of ended up under the bike lol, at least my leg saved any damage to the paintwork :lol:

Unfortunately with having Fibro any kind of jolt or bump really knocks me off kilter, and I tend to have 'accident prone' weeks sometimes that really get on my ...nerves. Hopefully this was the grande finale of this episode :)

Anyhow, back on topic. I am tempted to put this one on ebay and see what happens, i've had good feedback from the family but i'm a bit of a perfectionist (virgo :rolleyes: )and worry that it might be rubbish etc, but I suppose at least with ebay I don't have to look anyone in the face as they laugh at it!

I'm spinning some merino that i'd dyed a while ago, it's coming on really well, it's going to be quite a fine yarn once it's plied, and it's bright bold green, yellow and purple! not for the faint hearted :lol:

Again, thanks for the kind words, at the moment I just want to go to bed, wake up tomorrow and today be a distant memory.

Good God! I hope you're alright and feeling better now. No cuts and bruises, I hope?

Well, green yellow and purple are not really me, but I'm definitely interested in the grape and strawberry Finn, unless you're desperate to put it up on Ebay. PM me with the price :) .

No cuts but bruised and achey, I think the worst bit is the embarassment at the time :lol:

As for selling the yarn, I genuinely wouldn't have a clue as to price, thats why I thought ebay would be a good idea. I'm not a big knitter as you know so I don't know how much this type of thing goes for?

No cuts but bruised and achey, I think the worst bit is the embarassment at the time :lol:

As for selling the yarn, I genuinely wouldn't have a clue as to price, thats why I thought ebay would be a good idea. I'm not a big knitter as you know so I don't know how much this type of thing goes for?
Glad to hear you're more or less alright :) .

Tell you what; investigate the pricing on Ebay. If you want to place it for sale on there, that's fine, of course, but I'd love to have it for whatever you consider to be the going rate. If you do put it on Ebay, send me a link and I'll certainly be bidding. You should be really proud of it and inspired to do more. You have a great eye for colour combinations.

Are you going to be taking orders for colours in the merino? I quite fancy something terracotta-ish, with maybe a touch of darker rusty brown and just a touch of very dark, earthy pink ;) .

I will list it on ebay, if you don't mind, I always find it impossible to put a price on something i've made, mainly because I don't have much self confidence if i'm truthful. I'll put it on tomorrow evening and post the link on here, see what happens :)

You don't need to ask for yarn making, your going to be making plenty of your own soon enough :thumbsup:

I'm a purpley pinky person myself (well black n blue at the moment lol) so i'm sure more willl be made soon, once i've got this flourescent stuff spun :lol: it's all practise.

I will say though, this finn is worsted spun, and it's a little firmer feeling than merino and the likes, it would be perfect for making a bag or cushion cover, but I wouldn't say clothing next to the skin, might felt nice too.

I will list it on ebay, if you don't mind, I always find it impossible to put a price on something i've made, mainly because I don't have much self confidence if i'm truthful. I'll put it on tomorrow evening and post the link on here, see what happens :)
That's fine :) . You should definitely have confidence in your abilities though. Even an objective observer couldn't deny that the yarn is well-spun and makes excellent use of colour combinations.

Evening,

Finally got the yarn listed, Here (http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=110038348376) is the link.

I've done a bit more spinning today witht he bright merino, not alot though because i'm really achey today :( serves me right for doing a steve Mcqueen :lol: I think i'm going to re-dye the merino once i've spun it, see what happens :)

here is this weeks yarn, it's 2 ply Merino (64's) so so soft. there is 115g and a staggering 184 yards, my longest yet, not too thick, would make an amazing shawl.

My confidence is growing alot, and I am so thrilled with this yarn, i'm almost giddy (is that wrong?lol) remember me saying I was spinning some merino and it was a bit bright? well, i've been playing with it and overdyed it etc, and well...here it is:

yarn 1 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture014-2.jpg)
yarn open (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture013-1.jpg)

Now this is my sort of colours, i've always been a tie dye lover, and a bit of a magpie, and i'm thrilled with how this has come out.

:)

Evening,

Finally got the yarn listed, Here (http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=110038348376) is the link....
Added to my (ever-expanding) watch list :D .

...Now this is my sort of colours, i've always been a tie dye lover, and a bit of a magpie, and i'm thrilled with how this has come out.

:)
Wow! That is absolutely stunning! You've definitely found your craft niche. You need a plot of land and a few sheep, goats and alpacca :D .

Ooooh i'd love some Alpaca (alpaci? lol)

unfortunately as I don't even have a garden I can't see it happening :lol: probably for the best.

I've finally gotten round to updating my website as well www.shunklies.co.uk although if I spend too much time geeking I won't get any spinning/knitting done, so it's taking a while.

Yesterday i finished a fetching glove for my mums birthday, i love the colour and the detail, you can make out so much more detail on these then on my black ones... May need to knit me another pair in a different colour :)

Heres a pic (http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g51/rooty2/DSCN0961.jpg) or two (http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g51/rooty2/DSCN0962.jpg)

The colour hasn't come out particularly well in those pics though :( (its 05 colour)

Strangely enough btw, this one is slightly longer than the black ones :huh:

The Fetching pattern is addictive, isn't it? :hihi:

That's a very strange effect your camera is having on the yarn - they look like they're from two different pairs :suspect: .

I know what you mean Hecate, I started my second pair of fetching on Friday but got overtaken by sock knitting over the weekend and then before I knew it I was a great aunt ( I am taking that to mean I'm a fantastic auntie and not 100 years old great aunt) as my nephew's wife had a baby boy on Saturday and so the baby knitting has come out yesterday. So I'm still to do the thumb and sew in the ends but I can't wait to get on with Fetching 2 (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/fetching2.jpg)- as these are for me:hihi:

The baby pattern I'm doing is simply a Sirdar Snuggly jacket (http://www.ethknits.co.uk/Sirdar/Patterns/Snuggly-DK/1517_Sirdar_Snuggle_DK_pattern.jpg) with a collar, in a blue cos he's a boy! Something quick and simple. I'm doing it in 3-6 months because Jack was 8lb 3oz born and they grow like mad once they hit the air!! It's DK so should be cosy enough for January time. I'll post pics before I post the item to the new Mum. Another babe we don't see as they live in Wales. We are a far flung tribe I tell you:hihi:

Congratulations on becoming a great aunt! You'll be needing the blue rinse and the zimmer frame soon :P .

I love the colour of the Fetching. I've just dyed some fabric for my goldwork class that exact shade - very regal :) .

I love doing baby knitting. The yarns are so soft and the patterns knit up in no time. I like that little jacket - I've used Snuggly before, and it really is (snuggly, that is). The only trouble is the fact that the little buggers grow out of them so quickly. I suppose that at least it means that your lovely knitting doesn't get too much of a chance to be destroyed by baby vomit :hihi: .

That's a very strange effect your camera is having on the yarn - they look like they're from two different pairs :suspect: .

I know, the 'close up' setting tends to make things quite dark, the 'indoor party' setting seems to be the best, abit lighter. I also took the portrait style one of fetching the wrong way round, you're seeing a picture of the back, not the front, doh! :loopy:

Turra congratulations on becoming a great aunt, i'm sure the baby boy will be recieving some lovely knitted stuff from his great aunt :)

The baby jacket is finished apart from blocking and buttons, but haven't taken piccies yet - but have finished these. (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/pioneersocks.jpg).
After my nightmare with the elfines I needed some plain knitting that didn't task my braincell too much. The pioneer colourway from Lorna's Laces suited the bill. Sometimes I just need to knit without any complications. Does anyone else find this? I love the way the colours seem to swirl around my foot:D

The baby jacket is finished apart from blocking and buttons, but haven't taken piccies yet - but have finished these. (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/pioneersocks.jpg).
After my nightmare with the elfines I needed some plain knitting that didn't task my braincell too much. The pioneer colourway from Lorna's Laces suited the bill. Sometimes I just need to knit without any complications. Does anyone else find this? I love the way the colours seem to swirl around my foot:D

Now they are yummy - really love the colourway. Were they done toe up or cuff down?

I have planned (after finishing thei dragon sock) a nice pair or 6ply regia socks for a rest too:D BTW I ordered from MCA Direct at lunchtime on wednesday and had my stash on Thursday morning - now thats service especially when you dont pay for postage;)

Now they are yummy - really love the colourway. Were they done toe up or cuff down?

I have planned (after finishing thei dragon sock) a nice pair or 6ply regia socks for a rest too:D BTW I ordered from MCA Direct at lunchtime on wednesday and had my stash on Thursday morning - now thats service especially when you dont pay for postage;)


They were done top down, singly, on dpns. A complete change for me.

I'm nearly finished the first broadripple sock (http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEsummer03/PATTbroadripple.html)on 2 circulars now so I really am a glutton for punishment. But really prefer the magic loop. Sorry Hecate

They were done top down, singly, on dpns. A complete change for me.

I'm nearly finished the first broadripple sock (http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEsummer03/PATTbroadripple.html)on 2 circulars now so I really am a glutton for punishment. But really prefer the magic loop. Sorry Hecate

Seen piccies of some of these completed and they are nice. What are you doing these in?

Used the yarn specified in the pattern, Cascade Fixation Spray in 9843. It's a cotton and elastic mix, quite strange to knit with but lovely to wear. The pattern is easily memorised and works on the same concept as the Jaywalkers. Carefully placed increases made by yarn overs and decreases made by ssk and k2tog.:rolleyes:

You've all been so busy, I love the socks, I must get around to making some one day :suspect:

I've not been posting much but I have been lurking, I'm doing two dates at the Craft Market in Sheffield in November & december so I'm manically trying to get enough yarn spun and items knitted up.

I've just been dyeing some more Merino tonight, and i've been busy spinning some lovely Alpaca, chocolate & white.

I'm also knitting a wide wrap/throw in the Fin & Fan design, using yarns i've spun myself, which seems to be taking forever but it's coming along quite well.

When i've grown my third hand i'll get some photo's taken and update the website. :lol:

Excellent news about the Craft Market! If you give me the dates, I'll do a sticky thread, if that's alright :) .

The dates aren't confirmed as yet (i've just emailed them to definately make sure) but upto now they are the 18th november and the 9th December.

It's a really friendly place, I went in yesterday and had a chat with the ladies there, and it's very nice being able to view real arts & crafts and chat with the creators without there being any cheap imported goods (one of my pet hates at fairs, as I think it's unfair)

The website is http://www.the-craft-market.co.uk/index.htm

I'm scared! lol.

Don't be :) .

Let me know when you get confirmation of the dates, and I'll do a post.

As I'd loaded some photo's on to the computer I thought I'd show you my great nephew's cardi (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/jack2.jpg). I could kill for the buttons!! (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/jackbutton.jpg)I made the 3-6 mth size so that it gives him room to grow.

My other project at the moment is these broadripple socks (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/broadripple.jpg). I don't like the bit where the heel (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/broadrippleheel.jpg) is because the exxtra stitches distorts the colours but at least the other sock is showing the same trait so they will match sort of!
I am using Cascade Fixation for these and it's really strange knitting with an elastic wool. The content is 98.3% Cotton 1.7% Elastic. The jury is out on whether I like it. It definitely does not rate alongside merino, or Lorna's Laces but could be a summer favourite. Anybody else used this yarn?

Cute cardi and how sweet are the buttons?! The socks look great i'm not even gonna ask about how you're knitting them! I've had enough knitting challenges recently (dpn's, cables, socks-heel, kitchner stitch) I also really like the other socks you've done using the pioneer lornas laces yarn, they're a lovely colour! :love:

Those Broadripple socks have come out really nice Turra. Ive often wondered about the Fixation - is it really stretchy and difficult to tension?

Those Broadripple socks have come out really nice Turra. Ive often wondered about the Fixation - is it really stretchy and difficult to tension?

Yes:hihi: well I think it would be if I'd done a swatch for these, but the finished sock would cover a multitude of sins because of the elasticity. It would grow to a large foot or snug down to a smaller foot. Very clever really. as long as you got the length right then I don't think there would be too much problem with them:suspect:

When you try 2 circulars try to get two needles that are easily identifiable as it can be misleading when they are both the same length and the same colour. Just like magic loop once you get your head around what you're supposed to be doing then it's quite simple.

Yes:hihi: well I think it would be if I'd done a swatch for these, but the finished sock would cover a multitude of sins because of the elasticity. It would grow to a large foot or snug down to a smaller foot. Very clever really. as long as you got the length right then I don't think there would be too much problem with them:suspect:

When you try 2 circulars try to get two needles that are easily identifiable as it can be misleading when they are both the same length and the same colour. Just like magic loop once you get your head around what you're supposed to be doing then it's quite simple.

Have you done 2 circulars aswell then? The only prob with getting 2 lengths (which is what I wanted) was that the pattern called for 2.75mm which dont come in turbos so I just went the cheap route and got 2 60cm aluminium ones from mca direct as I thought that an 80cm one would be too long and they didnt do them in 40cm:(

I stock 2.75mm 40cm circulars...........and I do mail order:D

Heres a couple of pics of a scarf i've made today, i've got some other stuff i've not yet done photo's of, I'll have to catch up!

I've wanted to make this for ages, and today I finally got around to it,

Scarf (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture038.jpg)

Yes it is knitted :lol: I psent most of the time undoing stitches i'd just painstakingly knitted, but thats what the pattern called for :rolleyes: I was terrified it was just going to all unravel, but I seem to have done it right.

here is a close up (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture037.jpg) There are four different yarns in each stitch, and it weighs alot!

I'll try and get better pics tomorrow when theres some light.

That looks amazing beans. Which pattern did you use and which yarnSSSSS?

The pattern is in the july copy of Simply Knitting, the yarns used...hmm.. well there was a big ball of burgundy 'wool' type yarn, two balls of some fun yarn which has different colours in and like loopy things :lol: a ball of pinky mohair with different colours in, and two balls of Jeager something in bright pink.

I can't be more precise as the ones I don't know didn't have bands on, theres about 400g of yarn in it all told!

Good grief, beans, that's amazing! It looks more like an evening stole-type thing than a scarf. Very glam :) .

ok, *takes deep breath* I've got some photo's of what ive been upto over the last two weeks.

Yarn:
This (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture042-1.jpg) is a selection of yarn I made on the mini spin course, there is a bit of everything there, british wool, synthetics, alpaca etc, also some is spun 3 ply south american style etc.

This (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture044-2.jpg) is Merino/silk blend spun & plied with some Angelina fibres trapped between the ply to add a little bit of sparkley :) I likes shunklies :love:

This (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture039-1.jpg) is White Alpaca plied with brown alpaca, sadly I don't think i'll be spinning anymore alpaca as it makes me eyes itch terribly, but it is beautifully soft.
This (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture041.jpg) is the rest of the brown alpaca plied with itself.

this (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture040.jpg) is Merino with silk 'bits' in it, I think it's got a proper name but I can't remember at present :lol: I spun this really erraticly and chunkly to add to the messiness, it's surprisingly soft.

this (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture032-1.jpg) is what i'm spinning at the moment. There will be 250g of it, I haven't decided yet wether i'll be over-dying it after plying, as I quite like the baby colours.


Knitting:
I bought some Twilleys Freedom Spirit yarn which I adore, it's so soft, and made this scarf (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture056-1.jpg) heres a better Photo (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture048.jpg).

I also made some more fetching (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture047.jpg) to match.

this (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture054-1.jpg) uber chunky scarf has been knitted straight from a hank of Merino sliver, instead of spinning it I just knitted it up, it's really soft and snuggly like having a big bear round your cold neck :) the pictures not very good sorry.

here's (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture050-1.jpg) a better pic of the scarf I posted last night, and another here (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture049-1.jpg)

now i'm going to have a lay down...

Wow you have been busy:o I really like the Twilleys scarf - whats the pattern?

I used this (http://www.mielkesfarm.com/oldshale.htm) pattern, I love the yarn it's really warm and un-itchy! lol.

I am reading these, honest, I just can't keep up with turra and beans' productivity!

I've got my home-made swift now and I've used the ball winder to make three lovely little compact balls of sock yarn.

Pics to follow :) .

Here (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Merlyarn.jpg) you go. This is ArtYarns Supermerino (plus gratuitous picture of a sleepy Merlin :)) .

The swift works really well together with the ball winder I bought from Ebay. It took minutes to wind each ball, instead of the hours (plus inevitable knots) I would have got doing it by hand.

Many thanks to Amelie for sending me the instructions for the swift, and to beansforyou for pointing a virgin Ebayer in the direction of the winders. If anyone hasn't got either a swift or a winder, I urge you to get them. They really are incredible time-savers.

It really saves time and sanity doesn't it :lol:

What will you be making with the yarn? socks by any chance?

I still haven't had a go at socks, I should really.

It really saves time and sanity doesn't it :lol:

What will you be making with the yarn? socks by any chance?

I still haven't had a go at socks, I should really.
They don't call it swift for nothing. It absolutely flew! The cats loved it :lol: .

And yes, more socks. Another pair of the Thuja ones from Knitty.

You must make socks. It's the knitting law.

Maybe it's the rebel in me thats stopped me making them then :lol:

They look a bit fiddly, and i'd be worried about spending ages making them to find they don't fit my ample anklage

Maybe it's the rebel in me thats stopped me making them then :lol:

They look a bit fiddly, and i'd be worried about spending ages making them to find they don't fit my ample anklage
LOL No, the rebel in you should defy the DPN bondage and go for the scarey loopy thing that turra and Lisa use :lol: .

Ample anklage, eh? You could try the Thuja socks. They're men's socks and they're knitted in a chunkish yarn so they're a little bigger than the standard pattern.

Of course, the easiest thing to do would be to get hold of a simple stocking stitch pattern (like the one which comes free with the Regia sock yarn from McA) and do a larger size.

Not that I'm trying to wean you onto sock knitting, God forbid... :lol:

As I'd loaded some photo's on to the computer...
Finally catching up with this thread!

I love those buttons. I saw some in John Lewis the other week which had tiny little cats printed on them. They were lovely, but I think I might be a little old for them :lol: .

As for the sock yarn, I was going to buy some of the elastic stuff a little while back. I can't remember now if it was Regia or Opal. I can see the attraction of having elastic in the finished socks, but I had the sneaking suspicion that it might bugger up my tension, as I tend to pull fairly tightly anyway. Is it really stretchy as you knit with it?

...BTW I ordered from MCA Direct at lunchtime on wednesday and had my stash on Thursday morning - now thats service especially when you dont pay for postage;)
I've always been really pleased with them too. They also go out of their way to help you. I think I mentioned a little while ago that when one of the patterns I ordered was out of stock, they emailed me really quickly to suggest alternatives, and gave me a date for when the pattern would be in again. Very impressive.

As for the sock yarn, I was going to buy some of the elastic stuff a little while back. I can't remember now if it was Regia or Opal. I can see the attraction of having elastic in the finished socks, but I had the sneaking suspicion that it might bugger up my tension, as I tend to pull fairly tightly anyway. Is it really stretchy as you knit with it?


It's not too bad really you just have to discipline yourself NOT to pull too hard - let the yarn flow:cool:
I'm just doing the toe of the last sock so it should be finished by the weekend. Then an order to McA for some 6ply Regia not sure of the colourway yet but something with red init to match the paws that I got for non slip bottoms. Lucky SIL having a non slip bottom:o

Good grief, beansfor you, do you ever sleep? :lol:

I adore that brown alpaca. It looks like spun milk chocolate. It's a shame it looks like you're allergic to it, because it sounds lovely to work with. Do you get the symptoms with knitting too? I imagine the spinning generates a fair bit of loose fibre to float around and head straight for your eyes.

It's not too bad really you just have to discipline yourself NOT to pull too hard - let the yarn flow:cool:
I'm just doing the toe of the last sock so it should be finished by the weekend. Then an order to McA for some 6ply Regia not sure of the colourway yet but something with red init to match the paws that I got for non slip bottoms. Lucky SIL having a non slip bottom:o
Have you thought about using the Artyarns supermerino instead of the regia 6ply?

I've just looked at the Knitting Zone website, and it's on offer at $5.40, which is about £2.50! Merino sock yarn for £2.50!!! Yes, you need a bit more (I need about two and a half skeins for the Thuja socks), but £2.50! I'm off to order some. Must remember not to go over the £18 import duty limit.

EDIT: £2.88, actually, but who's counting 38p when it sells for £10.50 a skein over here?

I Don't think i've knitted with any Alpaca yet, so don't know if it bothers me.

I'm sat here trying to teach myself how to crochet, but it's driving me crazy. I think i'm getting the hang of the simpler stitches, then I go look for a pattern to try them out on, and they're all gobbledygook! <- I may have said this about knitting patterns a few months ago :suspect:

I really want to crochet so much, but I feel that childish knot in my throat come up as I get more and more frustrated with the stupid bent-pointy stick :rant:

I taught myself the basic crochet stitches using these (http://www.crochet.org/lessons/lessonr/lessonr.html) instructions. It's an American site though, so be careful about the stitch names as they're slightly different over there.

'The Happy Hooker' by Debbie Stoller is also good.

I know what you mean though. It doesn't yet seem very comfortable to me either.

EDIT: The patterns don't make a whole lot of sense to me either yet :huh: .

ok, i've dumped the crochet and opened the Shortbread, I feel much better :lol:

I just happen to have a ball of Sunbeam St Ives 4ply yarn in front of me, which I bought the other week, on the off chance I happened to fall for the sock devil.

it's only cheapo stuff, but I like the colour, it is 80% wool 20% nylon which is right for socks? and knits on 3.25 needles it says.

Will this be too fine for the socks you mentioned, as that says use size 4mm needles.

ok, i've dumped the crochet and opened the Shortbread, I feel much better :lol:

I just happen to have a ball of Sunbeam St Ives 4ply yarn in front of me, which I bought the other week, on the off chance I happened to fall for the sock devil.

it's only cheapo stuff, but I like the colour, it is 80% wool 20% nylon which is right for socks? and knits on 3.25 needles it says.

Will this be too fine for the socks you mentioned, as that says use size 4mm needles.
I'm not sure if that yarn would be alright for the Thuja socks, actually. The number of stitches cast on is quite low, reflecting the thickish Supermerino, so if that yarn requires 3.25 mm needles, it might make them a bit on the small side. The yarn sounds like it should be fine for socks in general though.

I think the Regia pattern uses 3.25 mm needles, but I don't recall off hand, and I think I might have another copy of it, if you want to try that.

EDIT: It actually uses 3.5 mm needles, but you could always use the smaller ones and do a bigger size.

I've had a look at some patterns and it looks like I need a few more balls of yarn before I can make a pair, i'veonly got the one 50g ball :blush: I thought that would be plenty.

I'll have to maybe get some of that supermerino from the site you posted.

My fingers have been busy this week. I finished the broadripple socks (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/broadripplepair-1.jpg). I can't decide if they are going to be a gift or if they will head off to my sock drawer. So for now they are sat in the bottom of my knitting stack awaiting their fate.
These (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/Thuja-1.jpg) are some more Christmas knitting, they are for my SIL who wanted slipper socks. I used Regia 6ply and Regia anit-slip sock feet and Thuja (http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEwinter05/PATTthuja.html) from Knitty.com. They knitted up really fast, started them Friday finished them last night.

Wow I love the slipper socks! They're fab.

The socks look really intricate and pretty too, did they take long to knit?

Wow I love the slipper socks! They're fab.

The socks look really intricate and pretty too, did they take long to knit?

Thanks. Do you mean the broadripple? If so not really, about 10 days with loads of "time off for visiting relatives" inbetween. The pattern is a simple 2 row one and one of those is a knit row. You should give it a go!! C'mon you know you want to really:hihi:

I've just started on my second pair of Thujas, and agree that they do knit up really quickly. I love working with the slightly thicker yarn and the lower stitch count. It's a good pattern for sitting in front of the tele to knit with too, as it doesn't require that much attention.

I really like the stripey Thujas, and the paws are lovely :) .

Turra/ Hecate - As the Thujas are meant to be for blokes did you have to downsize at all for a ladies foot size (did you use a smaller needle)?

I do like the Broadripples too - might have to buy some Fixation as Im intrigued as to whether Id be able to knit with something so stretchy:D

Turra/ Hecate - As the Thujas are meant to be for blokes did ou have to downsize at all for a ladies foot size?
Well, mine are for blokes, so I knit them exactly as described, just adapting for length. I've stolen the first pair for myself though, and apart from being a bit on the long side, they're a comfortable fit. A little on the loose side, perhaps, and so more lounging around the house socks than wearing with shoes.

I'd probably take off a few stitches if I was to knit them explicitly for me, though I haven't given it a go. I'd be interested to hear how you adapt the pattern and how it turns out if you decide to do that.

EDIT: Yes, a smaller needle would be an option (I think that's what he suggests in the pattern), though I like the thickness/texture of the fabric with the 4 mm needles.

Mine were specifically for a lady, but I didn't make any adaptatons and they fit me fine if a bit snug. I have a 9" wide foot measured around the ball of my foot, the recipient has an 8" and as she wants them as slipper socks I figured the extra room would make them cosy.

I son't know if I would knit them to wear under shoes or boots though - they are quite thick. I like my 4ply for that!!

They look fab Turra!

I must start xmas knitting soon! :| I've got about 3 pairs of fetching to do! And sleeves, border - button holes!!!and finishing of a baby cardi :|

They look fab Turra!

I must start xmas knitting soon! :| I've got about 3 pairs of fetching to do! And sleeves, border - button holes!!!and finishing of a baby cardi :|

Xmas knitting - whats that....it would mean that I would have to give stuff away:( Not posted for a while but I have half a pair of dragon socks done, nearly a whole pair of regia 6 ply socks and am still doing the long slog of applied i-cord to my Samus - Im not very quick:( Will try and do piccies later.

This weeks work so far:

I've finally finished this 250g Merino, i've dyed it, spun it, dyed some of it again, it's in three seperate hanks as they are all different now.
here (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture085.jpg)
here (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture084.jpg)
and here (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture081.jpg)

This (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture059.jpg) is a sweet little ipod nano bag and a large brooch.

this (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/tyjtjt.jpg) is a small hat in twilleys freedom spirit

here (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/tyjtjte.jpg) is my punk pirate bag and matching wristbands (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/tryr.jpg) are being made.

This weeks work so far:

I've finally finished this 250g Merino, i've dyed it, spun it, dyed some of it again, it's in three seperate hanks as they are all different now.
here (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture085.jpg)
here (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture084.jpg)
and here (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture081.jpg)

This (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture059.jpg) is a sweet little ipod nano bag and a large brooch.

this (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/tyjtjt.jpg) is a small hat in twilleys freedom spirit[/url]

here (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/tyjtjte.jpg) is my punk pirate bag and matching wristbands (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/tryr.jpg) are being made.

I love the two top yarns. Is the knitting for you, chrimbo pressies or to sell at the Craft market? Im sure I must be the slowest knitter here. At least Im not scared of doing socks though :hihi: *****LisaH runs and hides in the corner******

It will be going to the craft market hopefully, along with my yarns.

I've already done dad a pair of plain fetchings for his birthday, and my sister has already taken her scarf I made her for christmas :rolleyes:

*my name is Joanne, and i'm scared of socks* :lol:

Are your dates confirmed at the craft market now?

If you can do intarsia, then socks will be a doddle.

::Hecate runs off making chicken noises at beans:: ;)

I won't bite - I just won't :suspect:

Yes the dates are confirmed as 18th November and 16th December

in fact it would probably have been a good idea if I had put the dates on my website when I updated it wouldn't it :rolleyes:

This might be why i'm not a millionhair.

I posted this (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture081.jpg) yarn the other day, and I was going to leave it as it was, but it's been bugging me as I'm not a pastel-person :lol:

So last night I got out the acid dye kit I bought a while ago, and over-dyed it, what do you think?
Here (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/Picture002.jpg)
and here (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/Picture003.jpg)

Personally i'm content now and can sleep soundly knowing it's more me :lol:

I posted this (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture081.jpg) yarn the other day, and I was going to leave it as it was, but it's been bugging me as I'm not a pastel-person :lol:

So last night I got out the acid dye kit I bought a while ago, and over-dyed it, what do you think?
Here (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/Picture002.jpg)
and here (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/Picture003.jpg)

Personally i'm content now and can sleep soundly knowing it's more me :lol:
I really like the colours of its new incarnation, but to be honest I preferred the look of the old version. I'm not a pastel person either, but I did like the way the colours mingled and wrapped around eachother.

What you need is the new colours in a yarn that looks like the old version: perfection :) .

You mean create a humbug yarn out of the bolder colours?

Yes I think i'll definately be doing that, the Kool Aid just wasn't giving me the bold colours I want.

I'll have to dye up another batch of Merino with the acid dyes and spin that - poor me :rolleyes: :lol:

One reason I wasn't happy with the pastel shades, was that at some points the two single yarns were the same colour when plying them together, giving a solid colour. You can't really tell in the photo as so much is going on, but once knitted up I think it would look a bit odd.

Is that what that effect is called? Yes, that's exactly it.

I imagine it'd be difficult to make sure that you don't get the colours merging into eachother when the plies combine, unless you have two separate colours in each one. Then it'd be more stripey than intermingled.

Here is a cable bag I've just finished sewing up and putting the handles on. It's knitted using Debbie Bliss Merino Chunky. I didn't follow a pattern, apart from the cable bit I just made it up.

Cable Bag (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/Picture017.jpg)

I like the bag you have knitted beansforyou.

I haven't posted for ages. I finished my first scarf which was a garter stitch scarf and I started a second one as I wanted one too (first one was for hubby). I have just got back in to knitting again, but don't have much time what with my 11 week old. I started a baby jumper from the debbie bliss book which was for beginners. But I got board of doing stocking stitch, mainly because I'm not very quick at doing the purl stitch so it didn't seem to grow very fast when you only have the 10 minutes to pick it up now and again.

I noticed a post by somebody on here and it mentioned the Irish Hiking Scarf, so I googled it as it sounded interesting and got the pattern and I have pulled apart the jumper and I am knitting that instead. I'm enjoying it a lot more, but don't pick it up as much because it's easier to get lost in the pattern and I hate stopping mid row so I have to wait till my baby is asleep before I pick up the needles. I've managed 3 pattern repeats and I'm really pleased with the result. I'm knitting it in the Debbie Bliss Cashmerino aran wool that I bought for the jumper, it's in a liliac colour. Looks like I'm going to have loads of scarves as I want to knit the orca tails one that somebody else mentioned on here too. I will attempt that one after I finish this one I think.

Just an idea, but I wondered if the forum should be changed to a yarn craft one, as people are chatting about spinning and weaving and crochet as well. It's very interesting to read about it, wish I had more time to have a go at these things though. I only just have time to pick up my knitting - managed 20 minutes today as little one is sleeping. :thumbsup:

Hi Doodle :)

Wow, I think your doing great to find any time with a baby to look after as well! When my son was born I was like the living dead for at least, well...9 years so far :lol:

I haven't yet made any baby items, but I will do soon as my neighbour is having a baby, and just found out its a little boy :love:

I have to be careful I get far too broody :suspect:

Hi Doodle. I think it may have been me that mentioned the Irish Hiking Scarf. Hecate showed me the pattern. I've also been knitting it in Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran to match a pair of Fetchings. I'm really enjoying the pattern and it grows quickly. The pattern seems to show off the yarn beautifully aswell - I'm sure you'll be very pleased with the end result.

I'd like to have a go at the fetchings, but thought I should attempt something easier first, seeing how I had only ever done a garter stitch scarf before. I'm glad you mentioned the pattern as I really like it and needed something to do with 5mm needles and the wool I already had - it was ideal.

I'd like to knit some of the baby things in the debbie bliss book I have, but I needed to see it grow quickly otherwise I get bored. The knitting is all I have at the moment keeping me sane, especially over the last few days where she has been awake nearly all day :shakes:

Hi Doodle, fetchings and socks are really good for quick grow knitting. Hecates guide to knitting on double pointed needles is a must if you've not knitted on dpn's before.:thumbsup:

I'm in the process (on and off, or should i say in between fetchings - finished my third pair on saturday) of knitting a cardigan for my baby sister and i know the feeling of boredom on the stocking stich, i actually get excited when i'm heading towards a decrease in the pattern! woohoo armholes! :roll: :P

Here's a hat i've just finished, I was going to do the fake fair ilse hat with the Noro, but as the colour I bought is so dark I didn't think it would suit, as you wouldn't see the design, so I found this one instead, I love it :lol:

Here (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture023.jpg)

And why I use a display head :lol:
Here (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture020.jpg)

Like the hat. :)

Just got round to getting some photos.

Here's (http://www.photobox.co.uk/album/album_photo.html?c_photo=84285291) my Hubby modelling my first knitting attempt, a garter stitch scarf using Rowan wool - I think it's plaid. Excuse the mess behind, I haven't washed the pots all day :o

This (http://www.photobox.co.uk/album/album_photo.html?c_photo=84285361) is my second knitting attempt, the Irish Hiking Scarf.

Hope the photos have worked.

Like the hat. :)

Just got round to getting some photos.

Here's (http://www.photobox.co.uk/album/album_photo.html?c_photo=84285291) my Hubby modelling my first knitting attempt, a garter stitch scarf using Rowan wool - I think it's plaid. Excuse the mess behind, I haven't washed the pots all day :o

This (http://www.photobox.co.uk/album/album_photo.html?c_photo=84285361) is my second knitting attempt, the Irish Hiking Scarf.

Hope the photos have worked.

Hi doodle, the pictures worked for me beautifully! Daren't say I like the husband but the irish scarf is just my colour!!

Lovely work on both counts
Keep it up!!

Your hubby looks very snuggly wrapped up in that doodle! Hvae you made a hat as well?

The Irish scarf is coming on lovely too, makes it more interesting doesn't it adding some cable.

Here's a hat i've just finished, I was going to do the fake fair ilse hat with the Noro, but as the colour I bought is so dark I didn't think it would suit, as you wouldn't see the design, so I found this one instead, I love it :lol:

Here (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture023.jpg)

And why I use a display head :lol:
Here (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/crafts/Picture020.jpg)

Ooo I do like that hat. Beans Jr isnt a good model is he :hihi: Did it take 1 or 2 balls?

Like the hat. :)

Just got round to getting some photos.

Here's (http://www.photobox.co.uk/album/album_photo.html?c_photo=84285291) my Hubby modelling my first knitting attempt, a garter stitch scarf using Rowan wool - I think it's plaid. Excuse the mess behind, I haven't washed the pots all day :o

This (http://www.photobox.co.uk/album/album_photo.html?c_photo=84285361) is my second knitting attempt, the Irish Hiking Scarf.

Hope the photos have worked.

Really lovely Doodle:D

Ooo I do like that hat. Beans Jr isnt a good model is he :hihi: Did it take 1 or 2 balls?

He hates having his photo taken, so Gurns at every opportunity :rolleyes:

It took just over 1 ball, the pattern is here (http://www.xs4all.nl/~tdpj/HTM/Norohat.htm) and is very simple to knit up.

He hates having his photo taken, so Gurns at every opportunity :rolleyes:

It took just over 1 ball, the pattern is here (http://www.xs4all.nl/~tdpj/HTM/Norohat.htm) and is very simple to knit up.

That looks quite simple. Im hoping to start the Fake Isle hat this weekend :o Bit worried now that my colours might be a bit too dark - we shall see.

Beans - is that in the Kureyon 164 ... its a colour I had been looking at but doent look like I was expecting?

Hiya,

i'm glad you asked, as i've just checked the band and it is #163. The auction I bought it off said it was #164, which looks alot nicer vibrant colours.

Off to have words... :lol:

Just to prove that I do indeed knit as well as talk the talk I thought that I would put up some images of what I have been doing:D

First up is my 6ply regia socks (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/Picture012.jpg) in the ever popular Jungle colourway - notice how anal I was at getting my stripes to match :blush:

Next up this is as far as I have got with the Dragon socks (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/Picture015.jpg) after a brief exploration of 2 colour work:hihi: I will be getting back on with these and should finish in about a week I should think (nice and easy bar the short row heel). It fits really well now Ive reknitted using a 2.75mm needle instead of a 2.5mm.

And last but not least my fake isle hat (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/Picture014.jpg) ( a top view (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/Picture013.jpg) aswell) which I do love but unfortunately my head is a bit small (my tension was too high) but my Mum has a smaller head and loves these colours so Ive knitted her a Chrissy pressie:D My stranding appears a bit tight in places especially where I weaved in a little for the bigger expanses - but on the whole not a bad first attempt at colourwork:D

Oh and Samus still hasnt got all its applied I cord as it makes my wrists ache severely but soon I will have that done enough to take a piccy - Im kind of ashamed to say that after nearly a year I still havent finished it:blush:

Lisa your regia socks are so perfect!! I kinda chose to do mine odd, but yours look so fantastic matching i'm gonna attempt that with the next lot (got some of the pink/purple regia yarn waiting to be on the needles)

Well done on the hat! Looks great! Shame it doesn't fit though.

I just love that hat lisa. I've never tried colour work so may be I'll expand my repertoire and have a bash!! Was it a knitty pattern or a magknits?

Are your dragon socks done in Koigu? What did you think?

I just love that hat lisa. I've never tried colour work so may be I'll expand my repertoire and have a bash!! Was it a knitty pattern or a magknits?

Are your dragon socks done in Koigu? What did you think?

Thanks Turra - it was Magknits (http://www.magknits.com/Nov06/patterns/fakeisle.htm). the Noro really enhances a simple pattern:wink: Im going to do another one for me now:D

Yes the dragon socks are Koigu - nice yarn that does withstand much frogging. I like the colours and the sheen ...... but the cost kind of puts me off about doing it again as there are so many lovely sock yarns. I wanted this spatter dye type effect in greens/ browns and it was the only one I could find. I think you were using the same colour for your Elfines - have you finished them or given up (I know I wanted to bin mine)?

Lisa your regia socks are so perfect!! I kinda chose to do mine odd, but yours look so fantastic matching i'm gonna attempt that with the next lot (got some of the pink/purple regia yarn waiting to be on the needles)

Well done on the hat! Looks great! Shame it doesn't fit though.

.... they arent that perfect - Im one row out from the heel but have got away with it and fiddled the toe. Didnt have much left from each ball though but did squeeze them out of 2 balls (thats the benfit of having size 5 feet).

The hat looks amazing Lisa!

I prefer it to the one on magknits, the colours are much deeper, richer, if you know what I mean. Fancy having an excuse to make another ;)

The socks too are great, I just don't like mentioning socks to often in one day :lol:

Thanks Turra - it was Magknits (http://www.magknits.com/Nov06/patterns/fakeisle.htm). the Noro really enhances a simple pattern:wink: Im going to do another one for me now:D

Yes the dragon socks are Koigu - nice yarn that does withstand much frogging. I like the colours and the sheen ...... but the cost kind of puts me off about doing it again as there are so many lovely sock yarns. I wanted this spatter dye type effect in greens/ browns and it was the only one I could find. I think you were using the same colour for your Elfines - have you finished them or given up (I know I wanted to bin mine)?


Yes they are the same yarn as my elfines. Wonder of wonders no I didn't give up on them but I'm not happy with them either. The foot length is a bit too long and a bit too wide so they only tend to get worn under my boots that have "growing room" for the winter. Yes the winter has started up here....snow forecast for today:o I agree the cost is quite off putting but the yarn's probably worth it. I would like to try a different colourway in a different patten; but I've already got enough yarn to keep me going for a few months so I'll have to wait till after Christmas to start my buying regime again. *Shame*

I've finally figured out how to Crochet! yay!!

I've just finished this shawl,

here (http://images.etsy.com/all_images/3/370/12b/il_430xN.5269616.jpg)

and here (http://images.etsy.com/all_images/8/8b8/531/il_430xN.5269614.jpg)

I actually enjoyed it too :)

Thats great Beansy, love the colour too. I don't know how to crochet, must learn one day...:)

Ooooh pretty beansforyou! Crochet is still on my list of things to do but I never seem to get round to it.

I've finally finished Juno (http://s110.photobucket.com/albums/n119/knitbird/?action=view&current=DSCF0259.jpg)from the latest Rowan! Most complicated cable I've ever done. Just a pair of gloves to knit now for Xmas. Feeling very proud!

Knitbird that is gorgeous!

Ooooooh yummy! It looks like it fits so well and I love the colour!

I've finally finished Juno (http://s110.photobucket.com/albums/n119/knitbird/?action=view&current=DSCF0259.jpg)from the latest Rowan! Most complicated cable I've ever done. Just a pair of gloves to knit now for Xmas. Feeling very proud!

Well done thats lovely. You seem to be such a quick knitter - not like me:hihi:

Did you sub the yarn or use Rowan wool cotton?

A few pictures of things I have finished recently.

This is an xmas present for my Dad. It's a simple chunky rib scarf in black with a pair of Fetchings. I wanted them to be more masculine though so I substituted 2x2 rib instead of cables. The main body I still did in 4x1 rib. I had to increase a stitch when changing from 2x2 rib at the cuff so I could do the main body then decrease by 1 stitch to do the 2x2 rib again. I;m really pleased with how they turned out.

http://i97.photobucket.com/albums/l235/gempud/Manly%20Fetchings/DSCF0035.jpg

http://i97.photobucket.com/albums/l235/gempud/Manly%20Fetchings/DSCF0037.jpg

I also made another pair of Fetching in a chocolatey brown colour and teamed them with the Irish Hiking Scarf pattern that Hecate showed me. I made it in Debbie Bliss Cashmerino so it really is a luxurious feeling matching set.

http://i97.photobucket.com/albums/l235/gempud/Irish%20Hiking%20Scarf/DSCF0039.jpg

The next scarf is something I made for me from Sublime yarn. I think it was with merino and kid mohair maybe - I can't remember. I can't remember how many stitches I cast on but I started with the mohair and cast on double the amount of stitches I actually wanted for the main body of the scarf. Then when I got to where I wanted to change to main yarn, I k2tog all down the row for each stitch meaning I halved the number of stitches and it created the ruffled effect. It gives the mohair edging a great drape. When I got to the other end I did the same kind thing but increased to twice as many stitches.

http://i97.photobucket.com/albums/l235/gempud/Mermaid/DSCF0034.jpg

http://i97.photobucket.com/albums/l235/gempud/Mermaid/DSCF0032.jpg

My second pair of socks I made with Opal Magic yarn in Sugar Almond. I really liked doing these and they helped me to perfect grafting the toes. I also tried a new style of doing the heel where the gusset stitches are picked up. I'm awful at picking up stitches but it seemed to help me with that too, I have only ever done short row heels before.

http://i97.photobucket.com/albums/l235/gempud/Opal%20Sugar%20Almond/DSCF0028.jpg

http://i97.photobucket.com/albums/l235/gempud/Opal%20Sugar%20Almond/DSCF0031.jpg


And not forgetting the most important thing I have been working on in the last couple of weeks - the new addition to the family.

Lilly (http://i97.photobucket.com/albums/l235/gempud/Lilly/DSCF0025.jpg)

Gempud, welcome to the world of socks. I think your pair are really cool. like that colourway and Opal is machine washable which I'm all in favour of. I was really impressed with your Hiking Scarf and fetchings. Some one is going to be very happy this Christmas.

What's next?

Ooooooh more socks next. Opal Feelings I think the yarn is called - nice big bright bold broad striped socks. And maybe a top for me...Im determined to finally make a top that fits! My other half should have hopefully bought me 6 pairs of the cheap Addi circulars that someone mentioned the other week on here for xmas so I might need a project to test those out.

Thankks, LisaH, I used the wool cotton - which is lovely stufff, and so warm, just like we need now the winter's finally arrived! I think a substitute yarn would be easy to find though, as it's on 5.5mm needles - I know that Rowan's Kid Classic knits to that tension.

I'm honsetly not a very fast knitter. That said Juno did grow quickly, but then I tend to knit in 4-ply and dk, being a curvy person. ;)

Here's some of the items I've knitted towards the end of last year

A Yellow Baby Cardigan (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r65/Wheezy_photos/DSCF0153.jpg)
Dress, Bootees & Mittens (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r65/Wheezy_photos/DSCF0149.jpg)
A Two Tone Frilly Cardigan (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r65/Wheezy_photos/DSCF0145.jpg)
A Blue Frilly Cardigan (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r65/Wheezy_photos/DSCF0142.jpg)
And
A Polo Neck / Slash Neck Jumper (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r65/Wheezy_photos/DSCF0139.jpg)

:hihi: We have been busy Wheezy. The yellow baby cardi made me go "Aaagh". Some one is going to be very lucky if they are all for the same recipient!! What's next then?

Weezy - very cute! Are they for your kids or as gifts? Is the last jumper adult sized?

:hihi: We have been busy Wheezy. The yellow baby cardi made me go "Aaagh". Some one is going to be very lucky if they are all for the same recipient!! What's next then?


Yes, the yellow cardigan, dress, mittens and bootees were all for the same baby. I measured her up just before Christmas and gave her the set this week, I was hoping she hadn't had a growing spert and told her mum to give her bottle feeds only! Thankfully, they are a little on the large side (not much) so she should be wearing them soon. The mum in question has just found out she's pregnant again, so I'm going to be busy!

Weezy - very cute! Are they for your kids or as gifts? Is the last jumper adult sized?


The yellow baby things are for a friend, but the yellow jumper, and two cardigans are for my daughter Holly who is 4.

I'm just catching up on this thread; I've missed loads. I really must clear off my desk and get some photos taken of my post-Christmas knitting efforts.
First up is my 6ply regia socks (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/Picture012.jpg) in the ever popular Jungle colourway - notice how anal I was at getting my stripes to match :blush:
Good grief, those are perfect! You win the anal retentive award for November LOL . Seriously, I made an effort with my 6ply Regias too, though on the red/blue ones, there was a stray bit of colour which spoiled the effect. Even without that though, they're certainly not as impressive as those.
Next up this is as far as I have got with the Dragon socks (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/Picture015.jpg) ...
Lovely pattern. Have you finished them now? I can't remember if you said or not.
And last but not least my fake isle hat (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/Picture014.jpg) ...
Now that is gorgeous. Beautiful colours and a lovely pattern.

I've finally figured out how to Crochet! yay!!

I've just finished this shawl,

here (http://images.etsy.com/all_images/3/370/12b/il_430xN.5269616.jpg)

and here (http://images.etsy.com/all_images/8/8b8/531/il_430xN.5269614.jpg)

I actually enjoyed it too :)
That's beautiful. A lovely elegant stitch pattern. Very effective.

I'm peeved that you've managed to pick up crochet in about three days though ;) .

I've finally finished Juno (http://s110.photobucket.com/albums/n119/knitbird/?action=view&current=DSCF0259.jpg)from the latest Rowan! Most complicated cable I've ever done. Just a pair of gloves to knit now for Xmas. Feeling very proud!
Wow, that is stunning! The cables are magnificent! I love the colour too. Is it as milk chocolate-like in the flesh as it appears on my monitor?

A few pictures of things I have finished recently. ...
The Irish Hiking Scarf goes really well with the Fetchings, doesn't it? I'm going to go out on a limb and assume that you dad was pleased with his adapted Fetchings too?

I'm the opposite of you when it comes to socks; I started out doing the heel flap method and have only just moved on to doing short row heels. On the whole, I think I prefer the look of the heel flap and the speed and method of the short row heel. I think the flap makes the sock look distinctive, and adds to the hand knit look.
And not forgetting the most important thing I have been working on in the last couple of weeks - the new addition to the family.

Lilly (http://i97.photobucket.com/albums/l235/gempud/Lilly/DSCF0025.jpg)
When I read that, and before looking at the photo, I thought you'd had a baby! LOL Has she settled in well?

...My other half should have hopefully bought me 6 pairs of the cheap Addi circulars that someone mentioned the other week on here for xmas so I might need a project to test those out.
Did you get the Addis for Christmas then, gempud?

Here's some of the items I've knitted towards the end of last year...
Wow, you've been very busy! I adore the little baby clothes and love making them too. I just need to convince another friend that it's really about time she started to think about having kids :suspect: :hihi: .

Look at you Heacate catching up all at once! Yes my dad loved his adapted Fetchings and has reported that they are very useful for working on a maket stall! I have just finished making the 3am cable hat and that matches the Fetchings and the Irish Hiking scarf so I have a complete set. I don't have piccies of it yet though! I did get the Addi circulars for xmas but can't find anything to try them out on - I'm sure I had loads of stuff in mind before xmas.

Lilly is settling in very well thankyou although she often thinks that the funny balls on the floor attached to the needles that her Mum is so protective of are for her! Talk abouts cats and yarn, dogs and yarn are just as bad!

As for the heel flap thing. I have found that I do prefer the heel flap on socks. Like you said, it looks distinctive and I find that it looks a lot neater.

Look at you Heacate catching up all at once! ...
LOL I know! There were a fair few posts around the the time of my 'forum holiday', and I neglected the thread ever since because I've been too lazy to take photos of my recent efforts - a pair and a half of Mrs Beetons and some gloves/long wrist warmers (whose name I still can't recall, and which still aren't seamed :roll:) from one of the Rowan magazines.

I'll try to clear the mess from my desk in the next few days and post some photos.

Lovely pattern. Have you finished them now? I can't remember if you said or not.


Dragon socks have been finished a few days now and piccies will follow in the next day or so with Samus whos zip is inseting nicely - but slowly as I decided to hand sew it in as I dont fully trust my machine skills:hihi:

If somebody would like to try a toe up sock but with a heelflap heel. Take a look at these (http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEsummer06/PATTwiddershins.html) socks, There are instructions for a stocking stitch pair if you're put off by the cabling. I would recommend going up in the needle size if you have a wide foot though.

My pair! (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/widdershinsactionshot.jpg)

I liked the Widdershins pattern as soon as it came out. I'm a big fan of cables on socks.

I recognise that yarn too, Turra :) .

A quick update of my FO's recently.

It's not a very good picture of Sienna (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/knitting008.jpg) but at least the flash obscures my ugly mug. I need a volunteer to take pictures of me in my FO's but DH expects me to smile all the while (even though I don't want my face in the picture!) and DD2's not interested at all!!


And finally after about 6 months, my Lead or Follow Lace Scarf (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/leadorfollowlacescarf001.jpg). And a gratuitous shot of the pattern in close up. (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/leadorfollowlacescarf003.jpg)

Hecate, you should change your name to Eagle Eyes!!

Your stole is absolutely beautiful!!!!! I must have missed your post when the Forum was playing up. Good luck for tonight:D

That scarf is gorgeous, turra! The stitch pattern is beautiful, and it's incredibly neat. I'm really rather jealous :lol: .

Turra your scarf is lovely. Love the colour as well.

Finally finished my Samus (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/Picture022.jpg) and here is a closeup (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/Picture029.jpg) of the cabelling - hurrah! Its knit using Rowanspun aran in Autumn. This is a nice if a bit sticky yarn. The bad thing about it is that you cant pull it much without it snapping so my making up could be better as mattress stitch was impossible:( Its very warm - just in time for the turn in the weather.

Next up is my dragon (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/Picture020.jpg) socks (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/Picture018.jpg). These were made using Koigu P516 I think - beautiful yarn (V expensive socks though). The colour in these piccies is a bit washed out unfortunately. The pattern is fantastic. Im not so sure about using the YO method for the short row heels as the wrap method gives me better results.

Finally finished my Samus (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/Picture022.jpg) and here is a closeup (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/Picture029.jpg) of the cabelling - hurrah! Its knit using Rowanspun aran in Autumn. This is a nice if a bit sticky yarn. The bad thing about it is that you cant pull it much without it snapping so my making up could be better as mattress stitch was impossible:( Its very warm - just in time for the turn in the weather. ...
It's great to see Samus in its completed state. It feels like an old friend :lol: . It really is lovely, and the zip suits is perfectly. Buttons would have detracted from the simplicity of it and those gorgeous cables.

You are aware that you appear to have a dragon growing out of your head though? :lol:
...Next up is my dragon (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/Picture020.jpg) socks (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/Picture018.jpg). These were made using Koigu P516 I think - beautiful yarn (V expensive socks though). The colour in these piccies is a bit washed out unfortunately. The pattern is fantastic. Im not so sure about using the YO method for the short row heels as the wrap method gives me better results.
That's a lovely pattern. Is it the one from Marnie's blog? I know you posted about it a while back, but I can't remember where you said you'd got it from.

What's the texture of the Koigu like for socks? I may be thinking about another yarn (one of the Noros?), but I seem to recall reading that some find it a little prickly.

They both look great Lisa! I bet you're pleased Samus is finally finished. It looks very comfy and very neat. Love the socks too, how long did they take to do? (As you know i've only done simple stocking stitch socks.)

Lisa, Samus is fantastic. I love the colour and the way it is complicated with the cables but simple with the stockingstitch. Did you get fed up with the plain stretches? Have you another project to take it's place? Does my memory play tricks on me and are you attempting "Rogue" now?

I'm minus any big project at the moment and the lust is making me look at various sites etc. I guess that's how the bug bites:rolleyes:

I don't find my Koigu prickly or scratchy just lovely and soft. Have you worn yours yet? I do agree though that they do make for expensive socks. But they are worth it.:)

...I don't find my Koigu prickly or scratchy just lovely and soft. ...
It must be the Noro I'm thinking of :suspect: . I'll have see if I can dig out the blog where I read the quote. My memory's clearly getting sketchy with my advancing years :hihi: .

I love :love: the Samus! How long did the cable take you? I found that the same one for my Juno was driving me mad by the constant small cable stitches - that and it's so many rows for each repeat. The zip looks really neat, hope you're feeling hugely proud! :thumbsup:

Thanks so much for the lovely comments:D

Hecate I dont think that the Koigu is overly scratchy. I was going to send the bits left over to you if you still need bits - let me know. I know what you mean about it seeming like an old friend. Im hoping that this years friend will be Rogue:D

Turra - yes Rogue is my next big project - the yarn is already here and Im going to start as soon as I have at least one of my River Rapids socks done:D The expanses of stocking stitch were boring - thats why it took me so long as I had to break it up with small projects (and some ...read Elfines took rather longer than expected). The applied I cord was a pain in the wotsits :blush:

Knitbird - the saxon braid I found quite easy (although I did keep crossing over the wrong way). I think that the body strip took about a week in total (1-2 hours a night).

Wow you have been busy, some lovely things here.

Sorry i've not been around much, i've got a bit self-absorbed with one or two other things, and all my family have been unwell since before christmas, which can be a drain on your social skills to say the least lol.

I won't ramble on about what I have or haven't been upto, but I have all my latest items in my flickr account, which you can see here

http://www.flickr.com/photos/shunklies/

I've been working with my sewing machine more recently, and having won the corchet hook round, i'm also addicted to that too!

I finished my Pomatomus socks (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/pomatomus003.jpg) last night. They are a bit more lacy than Cookie intended I think but I put that down to having to knit them on dpns and do a YO at the beginning of a row. On the whole I'm pleased with them. Whether it is a pattern I would do again I don't know. It's all good experience.

Not very god news on the lacy scarf front. I did come first but only because it was the only entry in the class:rolleyes:

Turra - Those socks look lovely...argh keep seeing gorgeous knitted socks and being reminded i must get round to making another pair!

I'm sure your scarf would have won first prize anyway! :) Its lovely!

Oh and beansy, i love your needle cases, very nice!!

I finished my Pomatomus socks (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/pomatomus003.jpg) last night. They are a bit more lacy than Cookie intended I think but I put that down to having to knit them on dpns and do a YO at the beginning of a row. On the whole I'm pleased with them. Whether it is a pattern I would do again I don't know. It's all good experience.
They look lovely, and much better in a plain colour than in variegated. I really like that pattern and will certainly knit it again in a plain yarn.
Not very god news on the lacy scarf front. I did come first but only because it was the only entry in the class:rolleyes:
LOL I wonder if you have spies and the other possible entrants were put off from entering knowing that you were submitting that beautiful scarf? :lol:

I won't ramble on about what I have or haven't been upto, but I have all my latest items in my flickr account, which you can see here...
Your productivity puts me to shame! You've got loads done despite you and your family being poorly.

Where did you get the fabric for the needles cases? It looks fantastic against the black lining.

The fabrics are Ebay purchases, and thanks i'm glad you like my items - it's the only things that have kept me sane recently I swear lol.

Do you remember Aaron - the bear who came to live with me last September? Well I've gotten around to starting his sweater (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/aaronsback.jpg). I've also done the front but the sleeves are giving me some hassle. I've done all the cabling with out a cable needle. It's so easy and I don't keep losing the needle down the cushions of the sofa!!

You mean the poor little bear's been, well, bare since September? :lol: .

That's a very nice pattern, turra. I haven't tried doing cables without a needle, though I really should as I have exactly the same problem with the blumin' things vanishing as soon as I put them down.

I like the pattern - one lucky bear. :) Tell me, are those candles as nice as the woman made out on TV last night?:) :)

I like the pattern - one lucky bear. :) Tell me, are those candles as nice as the woman made out on TV last night?:) :)

I didn't see the advert myself but they are quite good and they look pretty when not in use.
Sometimes they can give you a headache - well that's what DH tells me. But he grumbles when I open the window instead so ....he's got to put up with it :)

Sorry Hecate, he has been a little "bear" all his life:hihi:

Aww thats so sweet Turra, I remember Aaron being your 'special guest' and keeping us all in suspense! :lol:

Yes, I'm such a happy bear (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/happybear006.jpg).:banana: My house mother has finished my sweater:D I was beginning to make comments about me not being a polar bear; but with the cold weather just about to start this week I'm nice and snug in a brand new sweater:love: Just one thing though - "How fat did she think my belly was?"

Yes, I'm such a happy bear (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/happybear006.jpg).:banana: My house mother has finished my sweater:D I was beginning to make comments about me not being a polar bear; but with the cold weather just about to start this week I'm nice and snug in a brand new sweater:love: Just one thing though - "How fat did she think my belly was?"

What a lovely job your house mother did! That will surely keep you warm over the winter months:D

He looks beautiful and cosy. I think he needs a mini Irish Hiking Scarf do go with it, and perhaps a bobble hat :) .

Have you no shame, where are his trews?!:blush:

Have you no shame, where are his trews?!:blush:
They don't wear any up here!!!:hihi:

tut tut:heyhey:

HI all,

I didn't know wether to post this in the knitting or craft group, as the first item is fibres but not knitting...

anyhoo, here is my new clutch bag, it's hand felted merino & silk with a lil bit of Angelina fibres for added sparkly, it's been embroidered too and the body of the bag is quilted for depth
Clutch Bag (http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5338862)

Back on track with this one, Swizzle is my newest hand dyed and hand spun yarn here (http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5333129)

I've been making these (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/jaywalkers2004.jpg) for a while. I made them for a friend who's having a big birthday - made at her request. I came across a zigzag bind off (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/jaywalkerszigzagtoe.jpg)for the toes instead of kitchenering it. I'm not sure I like the finish, it might be uncomfortable. I'll ask her once she's worn them. We are close enough for her to be honest!!

The yarn was Sophie's Toes Latte colourway. Emilly(the spinner) has an etsy shop. The yarn is soo smooth and yummy. I've several of her colourways in my stash. Ooops:D

Very pretty yarn and lovely knitting Turra. Ive never heard of that bind off before - dont find kitchenering too difficult though so havent tried to find anything else.

Very pretty yarn and lovely knitting Turra. Ive never heard of that bind off before - dont find kitchenering too difficult though so havent tried to find anything else.

I wasn't particularly looking because, like you I don't mind kitchenering, but when I came across it I thought I'd give it a try!! We live and learn don't we? It's not a finish that I would use again but at least I can say I tried it. Ha Ha. I much prefer the smooth finish that the Kitchener stitch gives you, it seems as if it finishes off the toe more neatly.

Have you started Rogue yet?

Have you started Rogue yet?

Whistles quietly whilst facing the other way:blush: The yarn is sitting there calling me every time I walk past too making me feel awfully guilty!! I got sucked into doing M a pair of catepiller socks (he asked me to do him some socks and I bought the yarn at the meet) - Im sure he will never ask me to do anything again....it did involve an impromptu knitting lesson when he asked about all the v's in the stocking stitch though - he didnt want to try but I suppose he is only 6:hihi:

Whistles quietly whilst facing the other way:blush: The yarn is sitting there calling me every time I walk past too making me feel awfully guilty!! I got sucked into doing M a pair of catepiller socks (he asked me to do him some socks and I bought the yarn at the meet) - Im sure he will never ask me to do anything again....it did involve an impromptu knitting lesson when he asked about all the v's in the stocking stitch though - he didnt want to try but I suppose he is only 6:hihi:

Oh, Bl:)ess him

First up is a picture of the poor Elfines sock (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Elfines1.jpg), still sat off the needles (well, off the circular needle anyway). The heel was frogged three times (or was it four?), the last time at about 1 in the morning. Big mistake. Anyway, I'll attempt to get it back on track when I can face the heel again.

Next, the RPM sock (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/RPM1.jpg), looking rather in need of a bit of blocking. The pattern is quite dull (just knit and purl), but it gives an interesting effect. The yarn is the Posh Yarn stuff I bought ages ago.

Here's one of the Rowan gloves/wrist warmers (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Warmers1.jpg) (Welsh-sounding pattern name, which I can't recall offhand) waiting to be made up. It's knitted using two strands of different colours, hence the variegated effect.

Finally, here's one of the doll coats (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Doll-Jacket-1.jpg) waiting to be seamed too. A very swift knit from one of the free patterns in the appeal thread. The yarn is RYC cash somethingorother. It's a cashmere/angora blend I used a little while ago. Lovely to work with, if a bit sheddy.

I was wondering when we'd get some more pics. I'm going to take a pic of what I'm working on at the minute and post it, hopefully today. Has anyone else got any pics? It's been a bit quiet on the pic front recently. :sad:

I've been spending decades (only weeks but it feels like years) spinning some laceweight yarn (http://www.woolforbrains.net/wp-content/uploads/2007/02/seafoam1.jpg) (tic tac for scale) and I've just finished a sweater for me (http://www.woolforbrains.net/wp-content/uploads/2007/02/roguedecreases.jpg)which actually fits (no photos of me in it as there isn't anyone to hold the camera)

I've been spending decades (only weeks but it feels like years) spinning some laceweight yarn (http://www.woolforbrains.net/wp-content/uploads/2007/02/seafoam1.jpg) (tic tac for scale) ...
Lovely colour and very delicate. Do you have a specific pattern in mind for it?
...and I've just finished a sweater for me (http://www.woolforbrains.net/wp-content/uploads/2007/02/roguedecreases.jpg)which actually fits (no photos of me in it as there isn't anyone to hold the camera)
I love the Rogue cables. They remind me of a silver Celtic pendant I have. I'd like to do Rogue too, though the cardiganization of it, I think. Which yarn did you use?

I've been spending decades (only weeks but it feels like years) spinning some laceweight yarn (http://www.woolforbrains.net/wp-content/uploads/2007/02/seafoam1.jpg) (tic tac for scale) and I've just finished a sweater for me (http://www.woolforbrains.net/wp-content/uploads/2007/02/roguedecreases.jpg)which actually fits (no photos of me in it as there isn't anyone to hold the camera)

That is Rogue I spy isnt it:) I MUST start my Rogue:D How long did it take you and did you put the kangeroo pocket on the front?

First up is a picture of the poor Elfines sock (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Elfines1.jpg), still sat off the needles (well, off the circular needle anyway). The heel was frogged three times (or was it four?), the last time at about 1 in the morning. Big mistake. Anyway, I'll attempt to get it back on track when I can face the heel again.

Next, the RPM sock (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/RPM1.jpg), looking rather in need of a bit of blocking. The pattern is quite dull (just knit and purl), but it gives an interesting effect. The yarn is the Posh Yarn stuff I bought ages ago.

Here's one of the Rowan gloves/wrist warmers (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Warmers1.jpg) (Welsh-sounding pattern name, which I can't recall offhand) waiting to be made up. It's knitted using two strands of different colours, hence the variegated effect.

Finally, here's one of the doll coats (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Doll-Jacket-1.jpg) waiting to be seamed too. A very swift knit from one of the free patterns in the appeal thread. The yarn is RYC cash somethingorother. It's a cashmere/angora blend I used a little while ago. Lovely to work with, if a bit sheddy.

Lovely stuff Hecate - are you using the same shade of LL as I did for the elfine? I really like the effect on the wrist warmers. Shall I photograph my WIPs tonight then (River rapids socks and M's catterpiller socks) - was going to wait until they were done?

Lovely stuff Hecate - are you using the same shade of LL as I did for the elfine? I really like the effect on the wrist warmers. ...
Thanks :) . I do seem to recall that we ordered the same shade of LL. I think the name is 'Sage'.

The wrist warmer pattern is very nice. Quick to knit up yet with a few different stitches to keep things interesting. Maybe by next winter I'll have got around to seaming them :roll: .
...Shall I photograph my WIPs tonight then (River rapids socks and M's catterpiller socks) - was going to wait until they were done?
Yes, do :) . I need to get back into the habit of keeping the camera next to me while knitting. I like to go back and see the progress (or not :hihi:).

Rogue - I started it just before Christmas. Owing to idiocy I ended up unpulling half a sleeve and all of the body up to the armholes so I suppose I've knitted a Rogue and a half. (Key tip, remember to change to bigger needles after turning the facing. If you're really dozy you can make the same mistake twice). I bought the yarn off ebay (like 160071970825 except mine was grey), it's very soft and I'm not sure how well it will wear. I made the largest size, added 4" to the hips, left off the pocket and had lots of yarn left over.

I'm thinking of the Hanging Garden stole (http://siviaharding.com/HangingGarden.html) for the laceweight, I have the pattern already. The yardage I have (880 yards) will give me a stole about 18" by 65" or I could spin the other 4oz and then I'd have shedloads. Decisions, decisions.

Rogue - I started it just before Christmas. Owing to idiocy I ended up unpulling half a sleeve and all of the body up to the armholes so I suppose I've knitted a Rogue and a half. (Key tip, remember to change to bigger needles after turning the facing. If you're really dozy you can make the same mistake twice). I bought the yarn off ebay (like 160071970825 except mine was grey), it's very soft and I'm not sure how well it will wear. I made the largest size, added 4" to the hips, left off the pocket and had lots of yarn left over.

I'm thinking of the Hanging Garden stole (http://siviaharding.com/HangingGarden.html) for the laceweight, I have the pattern already. The yardage I have (880 yards) will give me a stole about 18" by 65" or I could spin the other 4oz and then I'd have shedloads. Decisions, decisions.

Cripes o lorkey you are indeed a quick knitter especially if you have knitted one and a half:o Im kind of expecting mine to take ooooo about a year or so:hihi: Ive always wondered what blue faced leicester yarn was like - there seems to be a lot around at the moment.

Thats a pretty stole btw:)

EDIT: Wow Ive just looked on your blog - you are so productive:o

...I bought the yarn off ebay (like 160071970825 except mine was grey), it's very soft and I'm not sure how well it will wear. I made the largest size, added 4" to the hips, left off the pocket and had lots of yarn left over. ...
The blue faced Leicester looks interesting, especially this from the Ebay site:
The Bluefaced Leicester is the finest commercial 'Lustre' Wool in the world, the brightness and softness is due to the lack of scales on the surface of the fibre compared to other wools.
...I'm thinking of the Hanging Garden stole (http://siviaharding.com/HangingGarden.html) for the laceweight, I have the pattern already. The yardage I have (880 yards) will give me a stole about 18" by 65" or I could spin the other 4oz and then I'd have shedloads. Decisions, decisions.
Very nice pattern, though the blocking looks like it might give you a headache. The one in the photo looks like it's been blocked with geometric precision. Well worth it though.

OK then here goes-

M's catterpillar socks (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/DSCF0028.jpg)- yarn picked by him at the meetup. Not as anally matching as Im used to (but close enough:hihi:) Knit up as you can see on dpns. Hoping to finish these tomorrow:D

My River Rapids (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/DSCF0027.jpg)socks knit on some Rubysapphire merino sport weight using 2 circulars (which is a really nice sock method). When I have finished these (end of next week if not before) I WILL swatch for my Rogue:D

OK then here goes-

M's catterpillar socks (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/DSCF0028.jpg)- yarn picked by him at the meetup. Not as anally matching as Im used to (but close enough:hihi:) Knit up as you can see on dpns. Hoping to finish these tomorrow:D
Yay! Action Man camouflage socks! :clap:
My River Rapids (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/DSCF0027.jpg)socks knit on some Rubysapphire merino sport weight using 2 circulars (which is a really nice sock method). When I have finished these (end of next week if not before) I WILL swatch for my Rogue:D
Gorgeous colours and a lovely pattern. Do you prefer the two circular method to the magic loop?

Remind me which yarn you're using for Rogue?

Oooh ooh ooh, I love the Rogue! I just found this too
http://www.girlfromauntie.com/patterns/shop/eris/detail.php
Hmmm, choices. I've very nearly finished my first ever cardigan, I'll try and get a photo up soon :)

Um not sure whether I prefer Magic loop or 2 circs (Elfines kind of made me hate ML after a while but Im sure it was just those socks). The 2 circs is really easy - I shall need to try ML again. BTW if you are having trouble with your elfine short row heels could you not convert to a standard heel?

M's socks do look a bit camo-like which is why he chose them I think - a bit different from the yellow he originally wanted.

For Rogue Im using Jaeger Shetland Aran (this yarn (http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Jaeger-Shetland-Aran-Mid-Navy-Single-Balls-FREE-SHIP_W0QQitemZ220075966443QQihZ012QQcategoryZ75569 QQrdZ1QQssPageNameZWD1VQQcmdZViewItem) - not this colour) in a dark sage colour.

...BTW if you are having trouble with your elfine short row heels could you not convert to a standard heel? ...
I could, but I do like the look of that heel. The problem is that it finishes a little too high for the surrounding stitches, hence the holes at the corners. Wool4brains pointed me in the right direction for a potential solution, and it was that which I had in mind when I did the ill-fated 1 am frogging. I'll give her suggestion a go when I get it back on the needle, and see what happens.

Finally, here's one of the doll coats (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Doll-Jacket-1.jpg) waiting to be seamed too. A very swift knit from one of the free patterns in the appeal thread. The yarn is RYC cash somethingorother. It's a cashmere/angora blend I used a little while ago. Lovely to work with, if a bit sheddy.

Wow! cashmere/angora blend dolls coat? That's a bit more upmarket than I was planning! Back to the stash bag for me.....:)

Wow! cashmere/angora blend dolls coat? That's a bit more upmarket than I was planning! Back to the stash bag for me.....:)
LOL I know, but I had a couple of half balls left which were just crying out to be used up (I made a pink one too) :lol: . Don't worry, the one I'm doing now is bog-standard Patons DK (can't remember what it is exactly), and I've got some Snuggly too that I think I'll use.

LOL I know, but I had a couple of half balls left which were just crying out to be used up (I made a pink one too) :lol: . Don't worry, the one I'm doing now is bog-standard Patons DK (can't remember what it is exactly), and I've got some Snuggly too that I think I'll use.

Thank heavens for that! Back to the Stylecraft DK then :)

Here are three of the things I'm working on at the minute:

This is a jumper (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r65/Wheezy_photos/DSCF0532.jpg) I'm making for myself, and here (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r65/Wheezy_photos/DSCF0528.jpg) is a dolls/premature baby dress and finally this (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r65/Wheezy_photos/DSCF0526.jpg) is a cardigan for my little girl (won't lose her in a crowd now!)

Here is the front runner for the strangest thing I ever knitted. It's a character from Viva Pinata for the Xbox 360. It's based on a housefly, hence the interesting front end. I did consider having knitted wings but went for the short cut of heavy interfacing. It's basically a toe up sock that mutates into a hat

http://www.woolforbrains.net/wp-content/uploads/2007/02/tafflyflys.jpg

Here is the front runner for the strangest thing I ever knitted. It's a character from Viva Pinata for the Xbox 360. It's based on a housefly, hence the interesting front end. I did consider having knitted wings but went for the short cut of heavy interfacing. It's basically a toe up sock that mutates into a hat

http://www.woolforbrains.net/wp-content/uploads/2007/02/tafflyflys.jpg
He's really sweet, but he looks so sad! I love how the toe bit of the 'sock' leading up to his sucker thingie makes him look like he's frowning grumpily :lol: .

Here are three of the things I'm working on at the minute:

This is a jumper (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r65/Wheezy_photos/DSCF0532.jpg) I'm making for myself, ...
What pattern is that?

Here (http://www.prettyinpurple.com/images/sockip2) is my first ever attempt at a sock. Just following the opal sock yarn pattern that I got free with my sock. More has been done since this picture - the heel is now shaped and am currently doing the foot bit. I am impressed. Always thought that they would be complicated to knit, but they really aren't :D

Here are three of the things I'm working on at the minute:

This is a jumper (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r65/Wheezy_photos/DSCF0532.jpg) I'm making for myself, and here (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r65/Wheezy_photos/DSCF0528.jpg) is a dolls/premature baby dress and finally this (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r65/Wheezy_photos/DSCF0526.jpg) is a cardigan for my little girl (won't lose her in a crowd now!)


That looks like an awful lot of work for a dolls baby dress! Very pretty though. Like the look of your jumper too and as for the cardigan for the little one - she will love it (I do have some fluorescent yellow if that is of any interest for future garments...). Now all you have to do is finish one of them!

That's a lovely colour of Opal, can you remember which one it is Littlemissy? Don't give the game away on the socks, if you make out that the heel magic is insanely complicated it makes non-sock knitters bow down before your awesome skills. If people knew how easy it was they'd all be knitting them and then there wouldn't be enough sock yarn to go around.

That's a lovely colour of Opal, can you remember which one it is Littlemissy? Don't give the game away on the socks, if you make out that the heel magic is insanely complicated it makes non-sock knitters bow down before your awesome skills. If people knew how easy it was they'd all be knitting them and then there wouldn't be enough sock yarn to go around.
It looks like Opal Rainforest 2 in snake - it was one of M's possible choices:)

That's a lovely colour of Opal, can you remember which one it is Littlemissy? Don't give the game away on the socks, if you make out that the heel magic is insanely complicated it makes non-sock knitters bow down before your awesome skills. If people knew how easy it was they'd all be knitting them and then there wouldn't be enough sock yarn to go around.


LisaH is spot on. It is opal rainforest. I love the colours :D

I'm just shocked at how straightforward it has been. I was expecting more of a challenge, so to speak. Once I finish this pair, I think I will need something that has a bit of a bite to it. I'm terrible - I end up running before I walk. Keeps me amused. And the hubby is pleased as it keeps me out of trouble and out of his hair :P

That looks like an awful lot of work for a dolls baby dress! Very pretty though. Like the look of your jumper too and as for the cardigan for the little one - she will love it (I do have some fluorescent yellow if that is of any interest for future garments...). Now all you have to do is finish one of them!

Are you trying to make my wee girl look like a road side working in that there yellow of yours??:suspect:

I am going to finish them, in time...... :hihi: started on another prem. baby OR doll dress yesterday. Can't finish anything first....... Have you found me that pattern yet?? What's keeping you??? :rant:

...I'm just shocked at how straightforward it has been. I was expecting more of a challenge, so to speak. ...
How about Pomatomus (http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEwinter05/PATTpomatomus.html)for the next pair? They're knitted on DPNs, so there isn't a new technique to get used to. They knit up quite quickly too, once you get into them. I did mine with some Cherry Tree Hill sock yarn, though I did find that the colours tended to pool a little.

How about Pomatomus (http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEwinter05/PATTpomatomus.html)for the next pair? They're knitted on DPNs, so there isn't a new technique to get used to. They knit up quite quickly too, once you get into them. I did mine with some Cherry Tree Hill sock yarn, though I did find that the colours tended to pool a little.

Ooooh, I quite like the look of those.

*adds to favourites*

Have you found me that pattern yet?? What's keeping you??? :rant:

Er....it's called a day off....that consists of scrubbing the bathroom, vacuuming almost the entire house, washing and ironing, shopping, cooking, banking, picking daughter up from school, school governor meeting for 2 hours, converting a dk pattern to aran weight and checking for smart a**e messages on the forum..:rolleyes:
You're right - I should have nipped down to the shop and checked out a pattern, scanned it in and emailed it to you. I am so sorry :D

Er....it's called a day off....that consists of scrubbing the bathroom, vacuuming almost the entire house, washing and ironing, shopping, cooking, banking, picking daughter up from school, school governor meeting for 2 hours, converting a dk pattern to aran weight and checking for smart a**e messages on the forum..:rolleyes:
You're right - I should have nipped down to the shop and checked out a pattern, scanned it in and emailed it to you. I am so sorry :D

Sorry, what, did you say something, I was just looking for a knitting pattern, got distracted there, you have my full attention now....... Glad you think my messages are smart - makes me real proud that does :thumbsup:

http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r65/Wheezy_photos/DSCF0538.jpg

This is polo neck number 2 for my little girl, but she doesn't like it and won't wear it! WHAT A WASTE OF KNITTING. :rant: Never mind, I've moved on now, calm, calm. :suspect: :hihi: