Pics of what we're working on and finished projects [Archive]

Rooty

24-03-2006, 22:56

Being bored and impatient i decided that i was too impatient to wait until i've finished the baby blanket i'm knitting to show you all and thought ah well we can post pics of what we're working on if we like... so this is my very small at the moment baby blanket for the soon to be arriving baby bro or sis:

http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g51/rooty2/Knitting/DSCN0533.jpg (http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g51/rooty2/Knitting/DSCN0533.jpg)

heres a couple of close ups:

http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g51/rooty2/Knitting/DSCN0535.jpg
http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g51/rooty2/Knitting/DSCN0534.jpg

and heres the actual pattern (i hope its ok to post a pic of this, if not Hecate feel free to delete it if u can or ask me to edit)
http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g51/rooty2/Knitting/DSCN0537.jpg
i'm doing the smaller one, the blanket (the other is a shawl), it seems to be taking me ages to look like im making progress, i think its taking me about 10-15 mins to do one row, but i'll get there. And believe me i'll be asking for some help when i eventually get round to the edgings!

Hecate

24-03-2006, 23:08

That is absolutely gorgeous! I love the diamond lace pattern in the centre of the squares too. They look like little flower buds. Snuggly yarn is supposed to be really soft, and you can wash it in the machine I think too.

The pic of the pattern is fine. It's only the copyrighted text of bought patterns that shouldn't be posted. A pic of the cover is fine; it just looks like the sort of thing you'd see in an online store if you were browsing for patterns.

So the edging is added after the main bit is finished, right at the end? Will you be picking up stitches, do you know? Sounds interesting :).

I was going to start a thread like this today, but my pictures so far are dreadful. I just can't get the lighting correct. You posting your photos has made me determined to get them done now though, even if I have to take the photos in the garden to get enough light!

Rooty

24-03-2006, 23:25

Thanx, :) it took me ages to find a blanket pattern i liked!

Yeah the edging is added after its 'done' and cast off, i've just had a look and it is picking up stitches, i don't even want to think what kind of nightmare thats going to turn out to be! lol! but i'm trying not to think too much about it at the moment.

It took me awhile to take 'ok' pictures, lighting wasn't too bad as i used daylight through the window in my bedroom (it did mean i had to make the bed though :P ) but because the knittings long it kept looking all squashed on the needles! (still does on some pics) Yeah get some photos up, would love to see those fancy socks you were working on!

Hecate

24-03-2006, 23:35

I've just remembered that I've got a picture of one bit of my knitting already on the computer.

Here is Oliver (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Oliver.jpg), in a jumper I made last year which is a pattern called Ollie the Owl. He was really chuffed with the name :) . Excuse the blurring. I haven't checked with his mum to see if she'd mind me putting a photo of him on the net.

Hecate

24-03-2006, 23:39

Thanx, :) ...it is picking up stitches, i don't even want to think what kind of nightmare thats going to turn out to be! lol! but i'm trying not to think too much about it at the moment. ...
Don't worry too much about that. I've done a bit of it before, though only on socks and a little bit on Oliver's jumper. It isn't that difficult once you get into it. It's basically just putting the needle through the knitted fabric, wrapping the yarn around the needle, then pulling it back through the fabric.

Rooty

24-03-2006, 23:42

I've just remembered that I've got a picture of one bit of my knitting already on the computer.

Here is Oliver, in a jumper I made last year which is a pattern called Ollie the Owl. He was really chuffed with the name . Excuse the blurring. I haven't checked with his mum to see if she'd mind me putting a photo of him on the net.
Wow, thats great...you're good! It looks really professional!

Don't worry too much about that. I've done a bit of it before, though only on socks and a little bit on Oliver's jumper. It isn't that difficult once you get into it. It's basically just putting the needle through the knitted fabric, wrapping the yarn around the needle, then pulling it back through the fabric.
Oh good, that doesn't sound too bad!

Hecate

31-03-2006, 13:04

I've finally got around to taking some photos. Be warned; the lighting isn't too good. Need more practice I think.

Anyway here are a couple of pictures of a pair of Jaywalker socks. This is the pattern I'm going to be working on in the 'Hecate's Guide to DPNs' thread. The yarn (http://www.getknitted.com/acatalog/Cherry_Tree_Hill_Supersock.html) is Cherry Tree Hill Supersock merino in 'Indian Summer' from Get Knitted.
Pic 1 (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Jaywalker2.jpg)
Pic 2 (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Jaywalker1.jpg)

Here's a couple of the Pomatomus (http://knitty.com/ISSUEwinter05/PATTpomatomus.html) socks from Knitty. The yarn is again Cherry Tree Hill Supersock merino, but this time in 'Peacock'. The colour is quite dark, so it was a bugger to photograph. I think you can see the pattern, which I love, though I'm not too keen on the way the yarn has added the extra stripes. I think I'm going to make them again in a different yarn.
Pic 1 (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Poto2.jpg)
Pic 2 (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Poto1.jpg)

Here's a quick picture of a pair of socks I knitted from Opal self-stripeing yarn. They're just in basic stocking stitch. Nice, but the yarn is a bit scratchy.
Stripey (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Stripy1.jpg)

lisaH

31-03-2006, 16:10

Fantastic socks - love the Indian summer colourway -mmmmmmm.

That is going to be a beautiful blanket Rooty.

Must find the camera to photograph my bits:-o

LisaH xxx

Rooty

01-04-2006, 13:30

Hecate

01-04-2006, 13:34

Fantastic socks! i never really thought about knitting socks to be honest until recently, but i think i'll add it to my list of things i want to knit!

I can see what you mean about the unexpected stripeyness in those socks but they are still lovely! And the pattern is gorgeous! The Jaywalker ones are really nice too, like the colour!
Thanks!

Have a look at the 'Hecate's Guide to Knitting on DPNs' thread. I'm posting a series about how to knit socks on DPNs, using the Jaywalker pattern as the example. It's got photos taken by me too (I've just discovered the close-up setting on my camera... :) .)

Hecate

03-04-2006, 18:25

Here's a photo (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Sock1.jpg) of yet another adventure into sock making. This pattern was from an issue of 'Interweave Knits'. I can't recall the name at the minute, I'll have to look it up later.

I think I made the leg a little short though; the foot looks huge by comparison. Well the person I knitted them for did ask for ankle socks... Good job really.

Rooty

05-04-2006, 15:52

Being bored and avoiding coursework thats got to be in on friday...:help: i thought i'd use my time wisely ( :P ) and post an update of the blanket im knitting.

Here it was nearly 2 week ago: http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g51/rooty2/Knitting/DSCN0533.jpg

and here it is today: http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g51/rooty2/Knitting/DSCN0546.jpg its getting bigger :D (sorry the lighting isn't great)

heres a couple more close ups:
http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g51/rooty2/Knitting/DSCN0552.jpg

http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g51/rooty2/Knitting/DSCN0550.jpg

It looks a little bit bunched up but it shouldn't be when its all cast off. Btw, if you can see something yellow running through the knitting, there just my 'lifelines' incase i need to unravel.

Hecate

05-04-2006, 16:03

That looks really good! It's amazing how fast it starts to come together once you get into the pattern. Are you about a quarter to a third of the way through? You'll be picking up those edge stitches soon... :D .

I can just spot the lifelines. The number of times I've wished I'd been sensible enough to run one of those. I always think 'no, I won't make a mistake. This bit looks easy...' Famous last words :hihi: .

Rooty

05-04-2006, 16:15

im just over half way, i know it looks quite small for half way! I can't believe i've managed all that in 2 weeks, very un-me! I know what u mean about the lifelines, i keep thinking oh shall i bother im used to the pattern now... but i cant risk it! lol!

lisaH

05-04-2006, 21:00

Heres piccies of my work in progress as requested:)

My big project at the moment is Samus from Knitty.com http://knitty.com/ISSUEfall05/PATTsamus.html . Im knitting it in Rowanspun aran in the Autumn colourway http://www.cucumberpatch.co.uk/rowanspun_aran.htm (more rusty than shown here). Im quite pleased with how its going really and have finished the body bar the applied I-cord **shudder**

http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/samusbody.jpg shows the body and quite clearly shows the reason why you should block:D

http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/cablecloseup.jpg and http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/cableclose.jpg show closeups of the cabelling - scuse the focussing:)

Unfortunately the Samus got a bit sidetracked when I decided to try socks. This is also going OK and I should be kitchenering the toe later;) The sock I am doing is based on the Web of Wool free sock pattern and I am using Socka Safari yarn in Yukatan http://www.webofwool.co.uk/socka/mexicosafari.html . So here it is.....

http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/sock.jpg

Hopefully in a couple of weeks I will have more Samus done - I MUST do a sleeve:D

LisaH xxx

Hecate

05-04-2006, 21:43

Wow, your Samus is fantastic! I've only ever attempted the most basic of cables. Those ones look really intricate though. I love the pattern. The detail reminds me of Celtic knotwork. I much prefer your colour to the original bright orange too. The latter is just a little too bright for me.

That socks looks very impressive too. It seems to be more in proportion to some of my efforts; I always manage to make the foot a lot too wide, for some reason.

I bet you're just itching to get at the Kitchener stitch... Have fun ;) .

turra21

28-04-2006, 09:13

lisaH

28-04-2006, 12:17

Hi LisaH, you little devil!
Having read your posts under Hecate's use of dpns I thought you were as big a novice as I but from your efforts at Samus and the beautiful sock I bow to your ability.
I have noticed from reading different threads how talented you all are and what beautiful patterns are available outside of our "local drapers". Methinks I will be surfing the net a bit more frequently!!
Keep up the good work. I'm looking forward to being inspired.

Um I am a novice/ intermediate really Id say - just lucky that I have picked this up quite quickly. I do like doing aran and cabelling though and have done some before. The socks are the first things I have ever knitted in the round and ever done using DPNS. I tend to jump in with both feet with quite complicated projects (as they are the ones I like the look of) - seem to have managed them ok to date:)

So what are you working on atm Turra21?

LisaH xxx

turra21

28-04-2006, 19:00

Hecate

03-05-2006, 17:11

A sock!!! self patterning and looking very sorry for itself!! I did manage to start shaping the toe at lunchtime and was so relieved to find it lined up with the heel!!! I don't have a digital camera otherwise I would have let you all have a laugh!!
The first sock is meant to look sorry for itself; it's part of the Knitting Rules :). I made a little baby practice one a while back. It was hardly recognisible as a sock. I gave to to the cats to play with. They seemed to appreciate it :hihi:

Hecate

03-05-2006, 17:21

Here (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Cardi-2.jpg) is a photo of the cardi I've just finished. The one that I had a little, ahem, accident with. I don't think it'll start to unravel as soon as the little girl puts it on....

Just noticed that the towel it's sat on looks dirty in the photo! it isn't - honest - it's just a very faded shade of grey-green.

lisaH

03-05-2006, 17:42

Aw thats cute:D How long did it take out of interest and what pattern was it - I have a niece?

LisaH xxx

Hecate

03-05-2006, 18:39

Aw thats cute:D How long did it take out of interest and what pattern was it - I have a niece?

LisaH xxx
The pattern is Sirdar 1559 (http://www.mcadirect.com/shop/product_info.php/cPath/21_34_56/products_id/852). The sizes go from 0-3 months to 5-6 years. It knitted up really quickly; I think it took about a week in all, but I must admit I worked quite quickly because I really wanted to see how it would turn out. The yarn is Sirdar Snuggly DK (http://www.mcadirect.com/shop/product_info.php/cPath/21_34_43/products_id/369) in 'Bluebell Mix' and the buttons are from Hobbycraft.

I'm also knitting Polly (http://www.laughinghens.com/knitting-pattern-page.asp?patternpageid=3689)from RYC Classic Bambino (http://www.laughinghens.com/knitting-pattern.asp?patternid=389). This yarn is absolutely sublime; I'll post a picture tomorrow. It's Cashcotton DK (http://www.laughinghens.com/knitting-wool-yarn.asp?yarnid=261), which is a mix of cotton, angora and cashmere. It's absolutely the softest yarn I've ever used. I think it's wasted on a 16 month old actually...

Rooty

03-05-2006, 19:37

turra21

03-05-2006, 21:47

Hecate

03-05-2006, 22:05

not sure if this is the place to post this but here goes.....
Just got back from a shopping trip with my pal, travelled for 2 hours to find a "local" wool shop that sold more than Wendy etc. (nothing wrong with Wendy but can be a bit old fashioned) and found an aladdins cave. Spent over 2 hours rummaging and feeling and came away with more sock wool. Pair two coming up and a couple of balls (well 7 actually) of Noro Silver Thaw for a scoopnecked cardi with crochet edge. Heaven. Shame it's so far away though. Has anybody used Noro and got any tips etc?:rolleyes:
I can relate to that. I've been thinking for ages that I really should make the trip to Bristol to visit the monthly Get Knitted open day at their warehouse. Get Knitted is the most fantastic online shop, with an amazing range of yarns. Can you imagine being at the warehouse, being able to fondle all that yarn?... I'd be there for hours too!

I haven't used Noro before, though I have heard that it can be a little scratchy. I'm not sure about Silver Thaw though. Hang on, I'll go and have a look at one of the web sites...

Right, well that's got 25% angora, so it should be quite soft. And it comes in such lovely colours too. Which colour did you go for?

The yarn I'm working with has 18% angora, and it does tend to shed a little. What I've knitted with it so far looks a bit like someone has taken a small white rabbit and shaken it gently over the fabric... It is incredibly soft though.

Hecate

03-05-2006, 22:15

That cardi is very cute Hecate, looks lovely! 'Polly' looks very nice too, what colour are you doing it in?

i've got to knit this (http://www.laughinghens.com/knitting-pattern-page.asp?patternpageid=3680) if mum has a baby boy, so cute!
Thanks :) .

I'm using the colour 'Quartz' for Polly. The little girl's mum actually picked out 'Magenta', but I inadvertantly bought the wrong colour at Hobbycraft at the weekend, as I only took the colour name with me and not the number. Well, they are very similar. I don't think she'll notice...

I do like the stripey hoody. And that baby is so sweet it might even make me like them. For a while. As long as I can hand them back to the mum after an hour or so. Well, maybe half an hour... :hihi:

Hecate

04-05-2006, 14:01

Here (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Polly1.jpg) is a progress photo of Polly, the RYC pattern I mentioned above, and the gorgeous Cashcotton DK yarn. Well, it looks like magenta to me...

I should have taken a close up really, then you would have been able to see the little bits of angora. If you're in Hobbycraft, or somewhere where they sell Rowan and RYC yarns, make sure you give the Cashcotton a good fondle; it's so soft.

turra21

04-05-2006, 17:34

Hecate

04-05-2006, 17:55

Hecate, I chose shade no 2 which is a subtle muted green with heather and purple. Sounds disgusting put like that but did the tension square at lunchtime and am more in love with it than last night. Yes, unfortunately it did shed a little but I think I can put up with that. Take a look http://www.yarnmarket.com/yarn/Noro_Yarn-Silver_Thaw_Yarn-1687.html and let me know what you think?
On a different vein, do you ever work because you have so much knitting on the go? Can you tell me how you do it?:hihi:
That shade is gorgeous. I looked on Get Knitted to last night to check out that yarn, and when I saw what colours of Silver Thaw were available (they only have four), number 2 really jumped out at me. I'd love to see a bigger example of it knitted up. You really must get a digital camera! :) .

As for my knitting, 1) I'm an excellent multi-tasker, 2) I've been neglecting basic things like the hoovering, the ironing, the cooking.... and 3) I knit during my lunch and coffee breaks. Yes, I really am that obsessive when I've got a project on the go :hihi:

Halibut

05-05-2006, 23:50

Here (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Cardi-2.jpg) is a photo of the cardi I've just finished. The one that I had a little, ahem, accident with. I don't think it'll start to unravel as soon as the little girl puts it on....

I think that's a beautiful piece of work Hecate; I know a little girl who would look adorable in a cardigan like that. Don't worry about unravelling, but I hope the yarn is stain resistant...:)

Hecate

05-05-2006, 23:57

I think that's a beautiful piece of work Hecate; I know a little girl who would look adorable in a cardigan like that. Don't worry about unravelling, but I hope the yarn is stain resistant...:)
Aw, thanks Halibut :blush: .

I don't know about stain resistant. You can put it in the washing machine though :) .

lisaH

06-05-2006, 10:51

Hecate

06-05-2006, 11:17

Ive found - I think - what Im going to use my hank of Lornas Laces on (decided that the curly whirly scarf would be a waste). Its this http://www.lloydknitting.com/zig_zag_lace_scarf_and_stole.htm and Ive seen one on a blog somewhere made up in LL and it looks lovely.

LisaH xxx
That is so strange! No, not the scarf, but the fact that I've got exactly that page open right this minute in Firefox! I've got the 'Stumble Upon' toolbar installed, set to knitting/crochet, and this was one of the first pages that popped up.

It is lovely, isn't it? And the lace pattern isn't so busy that it would interfere with the colours or vice versa.

lisaH

06-05-2006, 11:52

Oh very strange! It looked nice in the Tuscany colourway on the blog I looked at http://www.knittygritty.net/gallery2005.html :D I do hope that I get the pattern though it was Paypal and automated so the P+P was $1 - which is Im sure her standard postage probably for the USA:S

Right better go and get dressed (hubby has taken the boys out so Im very slow at getting going - did finish Samus sleeve 2 cuff though) so that I can take some photos of the socks and Samus sleeves in the garden:D

LisaH xxx

lisaH

06-05-2006, 12:55

OK finished socks and Samus progress pictures:

First the socks - had a bit of a time with these what with the non-self patterning yarn and redoing the toe on number 2. Now they are done Im quite happy with them:D

Heres them laid out - http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/socks.jpg not blocked - do you block socks....some people seem to but why?

...and a gratuitous action shot -
http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/sockaction.jpg so you can see how they fit on my little fat feet:D

Samus - progress has been slowish since the last update, but thats because I was determined to finish the socks. No problems with this one at all and in a week or so I shall have both sleeves finished. And then on to the next task - blocking **shudder**

http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/samussleeves.jpg

Quite happy with these except the shaping on the sleeve cap is steppy due to the way I casted off. Might have a go at an alternative cast off from the Vogue book (if I can get my head round it) to give a smoother finish - and then I might not:D

LisaH xxx

Hecate

06-05-2006, 13:37

I love the socks :) . You managed to get the stripes lined up on both of them as well! I tend to go to the trouble of measuring the length of the cast on tail, and matching up the colour repeats before I start on the second one, and it still manages to look a bit off.

Are they the ones you had the trouble with the bit of dodgily coloured yarn? You certainly can't tell you had to cut the yarn and restart, and the toes look great. Bugger. I'm going to have no one left to read my guide to dpns soon (when I get round to posting the next instalment, that is...).

I do tend to block socks, but that's just me. The ones done in stocking stitch don't really need it. I block socks that I've used a stretchy lace pattern in order to open up the lace so you can see it clearly before the socks are put on. I suppose again that it isn't really necessary, as you'll see the pattern perfectly well once you're wearing them. What can I say? I'm obsessive-compulisive :hihi:

Those cables are amazing. I really must try something along those lines. On one of the episodes of Cast-On I listened to last week, Brenda Dayne was talking about the Celtic influence on the cables on 'Rogue', and mentioned the designer who has been really pushing for the use of authentic sources such as Celtic knotwork. Fascinating stuff.

I can see you're going to have fun blocking that out... Definately only do one bit at a time, because you'll be there all day with the pins :D .

lisaH

06-05-2006, 17:04

I love the socks :) . You managed to get the stripes lined up on both of them as well! I tend to go to the trouble of measuring the length of the cast on tail, and matching up the colour repeats before I start on the second one, and it still manages to look a bit off..

Thankyou - they are only plain but that was enough for my first attempt:wink: Um yes I did that too :blush:

Are they the ones you had the trouble with the bit of dodgily coloured yarn? You certainly can't tell you had to cut the yarn and restart, and the toes look great..

Yes these are the ones - Im quite pleased really that you cant see it. On one of the socks though in the laid out piccy you can just see a dark bit - 2 stitches on the foot - where it statrted the error again but I left it in as it didnt seem to ffect the patterning that time.

I do tend to block socks, but that's just me. The ones done in stocking stitch don't really need it. I block socks that I've used a stretchy lace pattern in order to open up the lace so you can see it clearly before the socks are put on. I suppose again that it isn't really necessary, as you'll see the pattern perfectly well once you're wearing them. What can I say? I'm obsessive-compulisive :hihi:

Ah yes that makes sense:D

Those cables are amazing. I really must try something along those lines. On one of the episodes of Cast-On I listened to last week, Brenda Dayne was talking about the Celtic influence on the cables on 'Rogue', and mentioned the designer who has been really pushing for the use of authentic sources such as Celtic knotwork. Fascinating stuff...

I must have a listen to that. Its the Celtic knotwork stuff that makes me like doing cables so much actually - I love celtic inspired stuff:)

I can see you're going to have fun blocking that out... Definately only do one bit at a time, because you'll be there all day with the pins :D .

Need to source some pins now
LisaH xxx

Hecate

06-05-2006, 17:20

...I must have a listen to that. Its the Celtic knotwork stuff that makes me like doing cables so much actually - I love celtic inspired stuff:)
I've just finished listening to all the episodes of Cast-On, in preparation for a guide to podcasting for knitters that I'm writing for on here. I'm going to whizz through them again over the weekend so I can do a review. I'll let you know which episode discussed 'Rogue', and the name of the Celtic-influenced designer. Watch this space :) . In the mean time, here (http://www.cast-on.com/) is the web site for Cast-On. I can't recommend it highly enough. Start off with the very first episode - the Halloween special from last year. It has some really great music, including a George Bush version of 'Monster Mash'. You'll be humming it for days... :D .
Need to source some pins now
LisaH xxx
Get them from John Lewis, if you can. I've got some quiliting pins I bought there years and years ago, and they're still pristine.

Rooty

07-05-2006, 01:13

Just thought i'd Say LisaH, those socks look really good! Bet you're pleased with them. I hope my first attempt at socks look as good as that!

turra21

07-05-2006, 11:41

I love the socks :) . I'm going to have no one left to read my guide to dpns soon (when I get round to posting the next instalment, that is...).

:D .

Don't worry Hecate, I will still need your thread! Can't decide whether to start on second attempt at socks or my Noro cardi. I chose Opal cotton in shade 1139 for my socks but LisaH has set a very high standard so feeling a little bit daunted.

LisaH, did you use the free pattern with the Opal wool? If so what are markers and did you use them and if so what do you do with them?:help:

Hecate

07-05-2006, 12:24

...what are markers and did you use them and if so what do you do with them?:help:
I'm sure LisaH will get back to you too, but just to interject that the pattern is probably referring to stitch markers. These are little loops that you slip over your needle between stitches to mark a place. When knitting in the round, you usually use markers to mark the position where the round starts.

No! Don't feel daunted! I'll have to dig out my very first attempt, the little baby training sock, if I can retrieve it from wherever the cats have hidden it, that is. It was utterly dreadful, hence its relegation to a cat toy :hihi: . Don't worry. LisaH is just strange. Most people make at least a bit of a mess of their first sock :D .

lisaH

07-05-2006, 13:10

Don't worry Hecate, I will still need your thread! Can't decide whether to start on second attempt at socks or my Noro cardi. I chose Opal cotton in shade 1139 for my socks but LisaH has set a very high standard so feeling a little bit daunted.

LisaH, did you use the free pattern with the Opal wool? If so what are markers and did you use them and if so what do you do with them?:help:

I used the free pattern from Web of Wool - probably quite similar to the Opal one though. The kit I bought included the dpns, stitch markers (little silver rings to mark your place) a tapestry needle, the wool and a pattern - I worked out it was a bit cheaper to get the kit for starting me off http://www.webofwool.co.uk/specialoffers.html . I did get some rather pretty stitch markers from EBay though to use instead and as they were larger it was easier to move them round http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=8271031317&rd=1&sspagename=STRK%3AMERFB%3AIID&rd=1

Using stitch markers (you could use paper clips or something) for making socks is really important as it means that you know how many rows you have done and will line up the heel and toe etc.

hth (hope that helps)
LisaHxxx

lisaH

07-05-2006, 13:13

Don't worry. LisaH is just strange. Most people make at least a bit of a mess of their first sock :D .

Oi cheeky! Actually I made 3 socks - I completed the first one (except the kitchenering) and decided it was too small so pulled it apart and did it again:D

LisaHxxx

Hecate

07-05-2006, 13:23

Oi cheeky! ...
Only joking :D .

turra21

07-05-2006, 16:20

Right, I've been experimenting with the new idea of digital cameras. I think I can do it but my photographic skills are as bad as my knitting skills.. This should be a picture of the shrug I finished last night http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/1219_0000.jpg. Hope it works. Also the better sock of the two!!http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/1219_0003.jpg

Hecate

07-05-2006, 16:32

Wow, you finished it! I can see where all those stitches came from that you had to pick up on the shrug now. It looks fantastic, and the colour is lovely. So much for being a beginner - that stitch pattern looks complicated :) .

The sock looks great too. Your toe is much neater than my first one was. Pah! I was hoping I was going to have some to share my feeling of inadequacey with about screwing up the first sock. I can see I'm clearly going to have to find someone else for that now ;) .

If you haven't managed to edit the link in your first post, or posted it again, by the time I post this, don't worry. I think you're just missing a stray html tag and I can fix that for you.

turra21

07-05-2006, 16:45

Thanks Hecate.
Does the fact that the page numbering at the top of this thread says last page mean that a thread can only be 4 pages long? Thanks for your lovely comments:blush:The pattern was really simple just over 4 stitches and you would put your needle purlwise into three stitches then purl, knit, purl into it then knit the next and so on then a purl row . Perhaps I shouldn't give my secrets away but hey...! It's made from alpaca and is really soft without the shedding of mohair or angora. Quite pleased really. The sock .. well not so pleased with that but better luck next time. I've started the opal sock and am panicking about matching up the second one as well as Lisa.

turra21

07-05-2006, 16:57

Rooty, How's the baby blanket coming on?

Hecate

07-05-2006, 18:14

Thanks Hecate.
Does the fact that the page numbering at the top of this thread says last page mean that a thread can only be 4 pages long?...
No, the thread can be many pages long. It's just that it takes up too much space on the main page to display the little clickable number links for all the pages when a thread is longer than three pages. Instead, it's displayed as '1,2,3... last page'. Clicking on 'last page' just takes you to whatever the last page in the thread happens to be.
...Thanks for your lovely comments:blush:The pattern was really simple just over 4 stitches and you would put your needle purlwise into three stitches then purl, knit, purl into it then knit the next and so on then a purl row . Perhaps I shouldn't give my secrets away but hey...! It's made from alpaca and is really soft without the shedding of mohair or angora. Quite pleased really. The sock .. well not so pleased with that but better luck next time. I've started the opal sock and am panicking about matching up the second one as well as Lisa.
I've never tried alpaca, but I know it's meant to be really soft, and very warm. It's a good thing the shrug is a lacey pattern now that summer's on it's way :) .

I'm going to delete your second post, if that's alright, because I've now fixed the link in your first post :) .

turra21

07-05-2006, 20:05

Quite alright there boss!

lisaH

07-05-2006, 20:06

lisaH

07-05-2006, 20:13

I've started the opal sock and am panicking about matching up the second one as well as Lisa.

The way I did it was to measure how long there was on the first colour to the colur change (does that make sense) then to make sure I had the same for sock 2 - luckily it works well:D I really like the way our Regia one came out - is the pattern for that much different to the Opal one then?

LisaH xxx

Rooty

08-05-2006, 00:32

Brill shawl turra21, it looks lovely!

Rooty, How's the baby blanket coming on?

Abit slow at the moment, i've been abit busy recently and not had much time to knit and when i have i haven't really felt in the mood, i have picked the knitting up more often though these last few days. Just looked at my last update (http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g51/rooty2/Knitting/DSCN0546.jpg) and realised it was a month ago now and im only 28 rows ahead of that :( which is like two 'sets' of the 'squares' if you know what i mean?!) only got 42 rows to go though (and abit of picking up stitches) :D i guess this is what i'll end up doing instead of revision now! Thanx for asking though btw :)

turra21

08-05-2006, 09:24

Turra21 That was quick:D It looks really good from the back - bit longer than I was expecting...for some reason I was thinking a shrug was short around the shoulders. Is that you modelling? Your sock looks brilliant too - thats a Regia wool isnt it, I like that:) Watch the alpaca when you wash it - Ive heard it 'can' grow:S

LisaH xxx

Quick? yes I suppose it was. Knitted on 10mm needles though so it did grow quickly and not much shaping. I have also heard that aplaca can "grow"; well maybe if that happens it will fit me instead of my daughter!

As for the regia wool, the pattern isn't much different from the Opal one , you cast on the same number of stitches but once you've done the heel flap and shaped the heel and it's all in the round again, regia gives you the number of stitches to each decreas but the Opal pattern uses markers. I'm finding the marker method much easier and unless you put the markers in the wrong place you are guaranteed to get the shaping in the RIGHT place (unlike the first sock!!!) Spent yesterday knitting instead of doing paperwork - much more productive!! (Try telling the accountant that!:) )

Hecate

09-05-2006, 22:15

Here's the finished version of 'Polly' (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Polly2.jpg), fresh from blocking. It knitted up very quickly and the yarn is so soft. I'm really rather pleased with the end result :) .

turra21

10-05-2006, 08:35

That's beautiful. Takes me back to when my girls were little.

Hecate, once you've blocked your knitting that "sets" the stitches right? What happens when you wash it, do the stitches need to be reset? sounds stupid I know but I'm a slow beginner. And I've never blocked anything. Terrifying thought to start. I've read your thread on blocking but I'm still confused.

lisaH

10-05-2006, 08:49

Hecate

10-05-2006, 08:52

Blocking does set the stitches. It's also the time to manipulate the fabric to the precise measurements stated in the pattern.

It's a very good point you make about washing, and it doesn't sound stupid at all. Do you know, I've never really thought about that? I always hand-wash my knitted things and dry them flat, roughly re-shaping to the size and shape the garment should be. I've never had a problem with the item going back to its 'pre-blocked' size, so I guess that the blocking process does set the fabric to a certain extent.

There's certainly no need to go to the trouble of pinning out the garment again once it's been washed. I've always found the flat drying and the rough re-shaping while its still damp to be sufficient.

I used the steam-blocking method on Polly, pinning it out to the correct measurements and shape when it was dry and them steaming it lightly with the iron (but not touching the fabric; I just let the steam seap into it). I used to be a firm fan on the wet-blocking method, but I find it a bit too scarey, especially if the garment is for someone else. I'm always scared I'll pull it out of shape completely when it's wet, as the fabric is incredibly flexible.

EDIT: The exception to the 'no need to re-pin and block' rule would be something like a detailed, lacey shawl which has scalloped edges or something similar. You may want to re-pin that to maintain the crisp pattern and edges. Then again, you don't tend to wash shawls too frequently, so it's not too much of a problem.

turra21

20-05-2006, 08:46

I'm about ready to scream with what I'm working on at the moment!:(

It's the Opal cotton self patterning socks. I completed the first sock ok. Started the second one, and after a lucky placing of the yarn managed to get the start of the rib in the right place. Knitted along happily, turned the heel and continued down the foot almost to the toe. Oh oh wrong number of stitches (attributable to knitting late into the night) so off the needles it comes back to the start of the foot, right number of stitches now so on we go. All fine and dandy so kitchener the toe last night and compare to 1st sock.
AAAAARRRGH pattern doesn't match:mad:

Calmly put it away till this morning, get up at 4 am after being woken by a little voice saying "it's not right you can't leave it" over and over again. On investigation the mistake in row count is BEFORE the heel soooo guess what? It will have to come out "again". I think for my mental health, I'll put it aside and do some of my Noro cardi for a while.
Do you recommend I unravel it before I change to my cardi so that I won't be tempted to put up with it or just hide it till I feel able to cope with the job?

Any body got any other horror stories?

Hecate

20-05-2006, 12:06

I must admit that I'm completely obsessive-compulsive when it comes to geting the pattern to match on both socks, so I can relate.

However, the sensible thing to say is that are you sure that there's a mistake? Sometimes, even if you've matched up the yarn really carefully at the start of the sock, and there really aren't any mistakes, the way the yarn is dyed means that sometimes the pattern can get out of sync somewhere along the way. It might be that there's an anomaly in the yarn, and not in your knitting.

Having said that, if you really have done a few extra (or few less) rows before the heel, it will throw the pattern off.

What to do? If I was sure I had made a mistake, I'd be very tempted to rip it out as soon as possible, then put it away for a while and move on to something else. It does seem a shame though, after doing the Kitchenering and everything.

As for my horror stories, nothing major with the socks (apart from the early efforts being rather grim). The only real horror I can think of was the one I mentioned a while back when I was seaming up the little cardi I made a few weks ago. I had to unpick a sleeve seam, chose to use scissors to cut the yarn instead of unpicking it... I'll leave the rest of the sorry tale to your imagination.

lisaH

20-05-2006, 20:54

My socks didnt line up by 1 row and it bugged me so much that I HAD to undo it - it took a couple of days to finally decide that it bugged me enough:( Is it just on the toe it doesnt line up - luckily for me it was so I undid that, added an extra row before shaping and it was fine. Its amazing how one row out could bug me so much:( Decided after that that self patterning yarn (not verigated) was too much of a pain:?

LisaH xxx

turra21

20-05-2006, 23:45

If only it was one line! It seems to be that the leg length is about 2 maybe 3 rows too long and that has put the heel out and obviously it follows on down to the toe. Having read Hecate's post about an anomaly in the yarn itself I was hopeful that was the problem and so a row count from the bottom of the rib will follow. When I can face them again and if it is the row count that is out then it will be coming undone because my Virgoan nature will not settle:loopy:
I can say that at least it hasn't deterred me from socks, ordered today (types quickly so that husband doesn't see!!) 2 skeins of Lorna Laces Shepherd,s Sock yarn in Old Rose, pattern for Concertina socks and an addi turbo bamboo circular needle to try the magic loop method. I've got some Bec loves Tigger wool from curious yarns to try the magic loop method then I'll give the patterned socks a go.
Takes a lot to get a yorkshire lass down!:hihi:
And it has given me a chance to progress with my Noro cardigan. Knitted on 5mm nedles it grows really quickly, I've knitted the right front tonight!

lisaH

21-05-2006, 08:58

Oh well done at the cardi front:D You will have to let me know how the magic loop goes - Ive not ordered a circular for the Elfines:D Im sure that solid wool or a verigated wool will be muc less of a pain:) BTW my progress pic of te scarf was put on te Elfine thread.

LisaH xxx

Hecate

21-05-2006, 12:00

turra21, do you have a link to the Concertina socks? That pattern sounds intrigueing. Have you seen the booklet about the Magic Loop method? It's the one that I've noticed several knitters in blog land using to teach themselves the method. Hang on I'll look for the link; I think I've seen it at Get Knitted...

There (http://www.getknitted.com/acatalog/Sock_patterns.html) you go. It's a Fibertrends booklet.

turra21

21-05-2006, 12:12

turra21

21-05-2006, 12:15

Here (http://www.knittingzone.com/catalog/product_info.php?pName=concertina-lace-socks) is the link for the concertina socks, Hecate
Can't wait!!

EDIT: I downloaded a method I found on the web. The one I posted when we were "persuading" Lisa to do the Elfines! If that doesn't work then I will get a booklet in the hope my brain cells can get round it that way

turra21

21-05-2006, 12:17

BTW my progress pic of te scarf was put on te Elfine thread.

LisaH xxx

I've seen it and it is soooo beautiful. I :love: your choice of colours

Are you having trouble with your 'h' key now too?

Hecate

21-05-2006, 12:21

Your knitting has come along incredibly quickly! It seems like about five minutes since you posted about buying the Noro. I love the Noro colours, and I like the idea of knitting sideways, particularly the way it gives the vertical stripes. More flattering than horizontal.

The Opal socks: the bit in the heel where the gold section of one sock looks a little longer on one. It looks to me like a yarn problem. From what I can see from the picture, the heel flaps look the same size, so it looks like there was a longer gold section of yarn in one section of the skein, which has thrown of the rest of the stripes. It's difficult to tell without actually handling the socks though.

To me, it looks a little like the foot section of the sock on the right hand side is a little longer than the one on the left, so you have an extra pattern repeat?

The socks look great though - I can't believe how you've manageed to get such perfect matching in the leg section. I'm heartily jealous!

Hecate

21-05-2006, 12:35

Here (http://www.knittingzone.com/catalog/product_info.php?pName=concertina-lace-socks) is the link for the concertina socks, Hecate
Can't wait!!...
I like those :) . Did you see the Scarborough fair ones too? Very pretty.

lisaH

21-05-2006, 15:27

I've seen it and it is soooo beautiful. I :love: your choice of colours

Are you having trouble with your 'h' key now too?
Why tankyou Im hoping to get it done this week - but have limited access to the needles:D Yes the y is better and watever it is causing the problem with my keyboard is working its way down :( Im guessing n will be the next key to go:?

Lisaxxx

lisaH

21-05-2006, 15:32

It's been a better day today so the light was good enough to take some pics.

This (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/backofnoro.jpg) is the back of my Noro cardi. I like the shading and knitting it sideways gives an added extra.

And these (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/opalsocks.jpg) are the opal socks.:mad:

I haven't done the counting yet but I'm pretty sure it's my mistake and not the wool:roll:

I'm busy this afternoon so knitting will have to wait for this evening!!
Have a nice day and don't laugh too much at my photography. Thanks girls

The noro cardi looks brilliant:) I think you migt have done one row, two at the most less on the rh sock leg before te heel looking at the fairisle bit before the gold bit on the heel:( Pain isnt it - I finished the whole of my first sock before realising it was too tight:(

Please scuse typing - baby asleep on my lap

LisaHxxx

lisaH

21-05-2006, 15:35

Rooty

21-05-2006, 16:13

And these (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/opalsocks.jpg) are the opal socks.:mad:

I haven't done the counting yet but I'm pretty sure it's my mistake and not the wool:roll:

I think they look great! I know there must be something not quite right for you all to notice its not completely matching, but i cant really notice anything, it looks fine! However...i have been known to wear completley odd socks or odd socks which complement each other..or dont (i once had to let someone in my house to read the meter and i had one red and black stripey sock and one purple and pink diamond sock, i was also wearing brown trousers and a pale orange top...it was an ugly lazy day...i was mortified though having someone see me like that - i looked bad!) Oh and i deliberately wear odd socks when i go home to my mums because it drives her mad!! :hihi:

Hecate

21-05-2006, 16:59

Here (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Striped.jpg) is what I meant when I said there might be an anomaly with the yarn. Look at the great chunk of navy in the right-hand sock!

Ignore the state of the socks, by the way. These are the ones I made last Christmas and they've had a fair bit of wear and been through the wash a few times since then.

turra21

21-05-2006, 17:26

turra21

21-05-2006, 17:28

The scarborough fair socks were my second choice but wasn't sure about no rib at the cuff. Would they stay up?

lisaH

21-05-2006, 17:34

Here (http://webdesignsbybarb.com/tostetoes/twosocksoneneedletoeup.htm) is the link Lisa. When I read it it doesn't make much sense but I'm sure all will become clearer as I try it.

Oh BTW it was a bad move letting baby sleep on your lap, How can you knit when he's asleep if he's where your knitting should be?

Ah tinkl you already posted the link:) I know terrible about letting im sleep on my lap - bad planning:D Never mind I got caught up on ER! He fell asleep on te way home after dropping off hubby at the station - hes on his 2 weeks round the world and babe was a bit upset:(

LisaHxxx

lisaH

21-05-2006, 17:39

Hecate

21-05-2006, 18:14

Hecate

21-05-2006, 18:15

Oh my that is a yarn anomaly - what make is it - Regia? Odd toug as it seems to catch up again:?

LisaHxxx
It is Regia - it's the 6-ply. I really like the yarn too, despite the little extra bit of blue. It isn't anywhere near as soft as the Cherry Tree Hill, but it was lovely to work with as a beginner, as it's a bit thicker than the standard sock yarn.

turra21

21-05-2006, 18:35

So Lisa if this is the week that hubby's away is it Samus blocking week? :thumbsup: Best of luck and look forward to seeing the finished article.

lisaH

21-05-2006, 19:57

So Lisa if this is the week that hubby's away is it Samus blocking week? :thumbsup: Best of luck and look forward to seeing the finished article.

Mmm yes once Ive glued the tiles to te ardboard - tought that I had some Evostick tat would do the trick but can I find it:( Once its blocked and sewn up its still not done though - oh no this garment has applied I cord and a zipper :rolleyes:

Please insert missing H's BTW:D

LisaH xxx

turra21

22-05-2006, 19:59

I think you migt have done one row, two at the most less on the rh sock leg before te heel looking at the fairisle bit before the gold bit on the heel:(

I felt confident enough this evening to do the counting. To put the record straight, the left hand sock was the first one and that had 76 rows before the heel shaping, the right had 77. :mad: but I decided in one of my more lucid moments that as I was only going to wear them inside or under boots, and I wasn't entering them in the local show in August, that I could maybe live with it, and so they have made it to my sock drawer.

Just waiting for my bamboo addi to try the magic loop method. That must at least solve the problem of one leg/foot longer than the other?

EDIT: don't know my right from my left!!
Left - 77 rows
Right 76 rows.

turra21

24-05-2006, 18:03

Hecate, you've been quiet on the wip front. What's on the needles at the minute?

Hecate

24-05-2006, 19:09

Hecate, you've been quiet on the wip front. What's on the needles at the minute?
I have. Then again, I have just finished the little girls' cardigans, and got them sent off last week (or was it the week before? I'm losing track of days!).

I've also just finished the first Jaywalker sock, the one that I've been taking photos of for the guide to knitting on dpns. Hopefully I'll get the last couple of installments posted up over the weekend. I've just cast on to knit the other one, so as I'm not going to be taking photos this time, it should go a bit quicker.

I have a couple of tiny little projects on the go, but I can't mention those, because they're presents for someone who might read this... :suspect:

Next on the needles will be the Leaf Lace socks using the lovely Lorna's Laces sock yarn. I was going to save that for the Elfines, but I think I might use those as an excuse to buy more (not that I need much persuading, of course).

Let's see, what else? I have to reknit a little girl's cardi I made about three weeks ago, due to some major hassles with some cotton yarn. Sigh. At least it's shown me that I don't like working with 100% cotton. I'm going to use the lovely RYC Cashcotton instead, because that is glorious yarn.

I think that might be enough to be going on with :) .

Hecate

24-05-2006, 19:14

I felt confident enough this evening to do the counting. To put the record straight, the left hand sock was the first one and that had 76 rows before the heel shaping, the right had 77. ...
Turra21, if you had unpicked a sock because of one row, then you would have to be crowned as the official knitting group obsessive-compulsive queen ;) . Fortunately, you didn't, which means that I can retain the crown :hihi: .

Actually, I do see the dilemma. I would have gone through exactly the same process of trying to justify it to myself. I would have had to do some serious retail therapy to compensate for having to unpick the sock. I think it would have been worth at least another couple of skeins of Lorna's Laces... :D .

Rooty

24-05-2006, 22:53

I have a couple of tiny little projects on the go, but I can't mention those, because they're presents for someone who might read this...

Hecate you'll have all of us excited and awaiting presents :P :hihi:

Hecate

25-05-2006, 12:30

Hecate you'll have all of us excited and awaiting presents :P :hihi:
LOL The knitters of Sheffield will have to wait for Christmas, I'm afraid :P .

turra21

29-05-2006, 18:55

Well, here is my noro cardi (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/0529_0001.jpg)all except buttons. The crochet around the edges was a new adventure for me. I hadn't done that before. What sort of buttons do you think would be good. Stitched on ones obviously:hihi:

Hecate

29-05-2006, 19:06

Well, here is my noro cardi (http://http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/0529_0001.jpg)all except buttons. The crochet around the edges was a new adventure for me. I hadn't done that before. What sort of buttons do you think would be good. Stitched on ones obviously:hihi:
For some reason your link is taking me to the Microsoft site. I think there might be a mistake in it somewhere. Could you try posting it again?

EDIT: I could have a go at editing your post, if you're not sure. I think you might have a got a forward slash where there should be a :

EDIT AGAIN: I noticed you were offline, so I went ahead and edited your link. It's working now :) .

The cardi is lovely - the colours are gorgeous, and the crochet edge adds a delicate touch to it. It seems to have knitted up in no time too.

As for buttons, I think you need something plain, which won't detract from the colours and textures of the yarn. How about a clear glass/acrylic button?

lisaH

29-05-2006, 20:06

That is really pretty - well done:D It would probably look quite nice with pearlised buttons.

LisaH xxx

turra21

29-05-2006, 20:21

Thanks Hecate, I might stick with the needles rather than the computer

lisaH

29-05-2006, 20:25

What about mother of pearl buttons (http://xander.gmlnt.com/_ecb/sewmuchmore.co.uk/acatalog/Buttons.html) scroll down a bit here.

LisaH xxx

turra21

29-05-2006, 20:27

That's just the sort of thing I think would finish it off without detracting. Thanks Lisa

turra21

30-05-2006, 08:45

LisaH, What is your scarf like now? I need to knit a scarf for a WRI (womens rural institute) competition later in the year and am wondering about Fibertrends Lead or Follow lace scarf (http://www.heartstringsfiberarts.com/a52.shtm). It just made me think of your scarf.

P.S. Thank you for your kind words on my cardi:blush:

lisaH

30-05-2006, 10:14

That scarf is lovely:D Much more delicate than mine - the zig zig scarf is worsted weight:) My scarf is about 2/3 done - didnt get much done on it last week:(

LisaH xxx

Hecate

30-05-2006, 10:19

turra21

30-05-2006, 18:00

I haven't looked too much yet cos it's a few projects hence but I like the look of Woolly workshop Artisan Lace (http://www.woollyworkshop.co.uk/acatalog/Artisan_Lace.html)- no idea of colour yet or the merino lace (http://www.woollyworkshop.co.uk/acatalog/ml.html) in Winterberry. This is such a big hank though I'd need to find some other patterns to use up the remainder:hihi:

Will need to do a bit more surfing and also a visit to that wool shed the noro came from may be in order.

Time enough to decide which way to go. No hurry:wink:

Hecate

05-06-2006, 13:56

Artyarns Supermerino shade 131 before (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Artyarns.jpg) and after (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Thuja.jpg).

These were the world's quickest socks to knit, with the yarn being worsted weight and the DPNs 4 mm.

The pattern is Thuja (http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEwinter05/PATTthuja.html) from Knitty.

turra21

05-06-2006, 17:22

are these an adult size? The heavier guage makes them look smaller. Or do my eyes deceive me?

Hecate

05-06-2006, 17:39

are these an adult size? The heavier guage makes them look smaller. Or do my eyes deceive me?
They are an adult size. The Thuja pattern is for men's socks, and these are about a men's size 8-ish. I like the slightly reptilian look about them though, so I think I'll keep them for myself to slob around the house in.

turra21

05-06-2006, 18:34

Hecate

05-06-2006, 21:29

So Hecate, you're going all turtillian on us eh? No I think they look great. I'm jealous because I've only got a size 4 foot so I couldn't "borrow" men's socks to wear without doing myself an injury!!

Is it the elfines next? What yarn are you going to use?

I'm a size 6, so the socks are a little big. They're lovely and soft though.

It was going to be the Elfines next, but I've just cast on for a little girl's cardi. It's this (http://www.simplywool.com/index.php?main=prod&id=127) one which I made a month or so ago in a 100% cotton. I got as far as blocking the pieces and decided that I didn't like the yarn at all. So, it's now being knitted again in RYC Cashcotton DK.

The trouble is, the RYC yarn is a little lighter pink than was the cotton. Nine year old girls like pink, don't they? :suspect:

The Elfines will definitely be next, and for those I'm using the lovely Lorna's Laces (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/LL.jpg) Shepherd's Sock yarn in Sage.

turra21

06-06-2006, 09:21

The trouble is, the RYC yarn is a little lighter pink than was the cotton. Nine year old girls like pink, don't they? :suspect: .

Mine did but that was some time ago:confused: not sure where it's gone?

I think this is my favourite thread, I love seeing what others are planning or are actually doing and the progress it makes. Everyone's choices of yarn and patterns ooh they just excite me!!

Am I sad?

lisaH

06-06-2006, 10:23

Hecate

06-06-2006, 10:23

...Am I sad?
LOL No, of course not! It's mine too. I love to see the photos. It's also the thread which has the most views, I think, so we're certainly not alone.

I'll post a photo of the cardi, when it starts to look a bit less like just a pink rectangle :) .

Hecate

06-06-2006, 10:25

That yarn knits up nicely:) So who are they for;)

LisaH xxx
Ah, now that would be telling... No, they're for me. Really. I love the speckled green-ness of them, so I'm keeping them for myself :) .

Hecate

18-06-2006, 16:42

Here's (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Anna.jpg) the cardi I've just finished, pinned out and ready for its final blocking. Sorry the photo's a little blurry; not sure what happened there.

It's very similar to the purplish one I made a month or so ago, but it's actually a different patern. This one's for a nine year old, though it looks a bit infant-sized as it's a cropped top which is meant to be worn over a t-shirt.

This is the one I knitted previously out of 100% cotton, but decided when it came to seaming that I didn't like the yarn at all. I substituted the RYC Cashcotton in Framboise, which was a lot nicer to work with, and wonderfully soft.

lisaH

18-06-2006, 19:05

Very pretty:) The picot edgeing looks lovely. Do you tend to block after seaming?

LisaH xxx

Hecate

18-06-2006, 19:23

Thanks Lisa :) . I tend to block the pieces before seaming and then do a light block afterwards too. This pattern, however, specifically stated that it should be blocked after seaming. Who am I to argue?

Actually, I really think I should have blocked before seaming; it would have made the job a lot easier. A lesson not to stick too rigidly to the instructions, I think.

Here (http://www.yarn-store.com/images/Fibertrends/CH-14.jpg) is what's going to be on the needles next, along with the Elfines. It's a Fiber Trends pattern called Patrick's Pumpkin and it's going to be for a new baby :) .

lisaH

18-06-2006, 20:09

Hecate

18-06-2006, 20:14

I DO like that hat:D I quite like the ones that look like strawberries too IYKWIM.

LisaH xxx
The strawberries are lovely :) . There's a Knitty pattern called Baby Tart which is a hat knitted to look like a blackberry tart, complete with crust. I presented the mum with pictures of both that and the pumpkin one, and she decided that the pumpkin one was more to her taste.

Babies are great; they'll let you dress them in anything, no matter how silly they look in the photos :D .

Buying the yarn was a bit of a bugger though. I ended up going for the Cascade 220 from the Knitting Zone. I got the owner to pick out the best pumpkin and leafy colours, as you know how the computer monitor can sometimes distort colours.

I haven't worked on a hat in ages, so I'm looking forward to this one.

Rooty

21-06-2006, 14:53

Hecate

21-06-2006, 15:18

Hi guys, sorry i've been away for awhile, been rather busy and when not working been going back home when i can. Everyones knittings been looking great btw. all these finished projects have made me jealous so i've been putting some effort into finishing the blanket and...only 10 rows left!! :D although then i need to start the edging :( which i'm starting to get very worried about!! ...
Don't worry about picking up stitches; it's easy. I presume you have to go around the entire edge of the blanket picking up probably over a couple of hundred stitches? The pattern instructions will probably tell you this, but you should use a nice long circular needle, about 0.25 - 0.75 mm finer than the needles you've used to knit the rest of the blanket. A straight needle wouldn't be able to accommodate all the stitches, unless you scrunched them up.
...I'm also slightly worried about casting off for the blanket (although i shall be extremely pleased to have finished the main body of it!). because last time i tried casting off i ended up doing it a little too tight, maybe i'll have a couple of practices first. Will it really matter though if it is a little tight as when its blocked will it 'stretch' the cast off edge out abit anyway?
The thing about the cast-off edge is that it can only be stretched so far even in blocking. If you cast off too tightly, you might end up finding that the cast off edge is a lot shorter than the cast on edge at the other end, even after blocking!

What you need to do is try to get out of the habit of pulling the yarn tightish after you cast off each stitch. My habit is too pull the yarn really quite tightly, because it seems to tidy up the cast off edge. Trouble is, doing that also makes the stitches of the cast off edge smaller and tighter (and so closer together), and less stretchy.

If it's only a little tight, blocking will stretch it a bit. If it's too tight, blocking won't be able to stretch it enough, and it might shrink back to its original dimensions.

Hecate

24-06-2006, 09:07

Here (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Pumpkin.jpg) is what the pumpkin hat looks like at the minute. I've just started the decreases for the top section.

Rooty

24-06-2006, 12:32

You don't waste any time! Looks great, love the orange!

Hecate

24-06-2006, 12:51

You don't waste any time! Looks great, love the orange!
Thanks! It's a little, erm, bright isn't it? Then again, I've just had a look at the pumpkins in the photo on the front of the pattern, and they're a lot more orange than the yarn the author used to knit her hat. So, mine's more authentic :hihi: .

Forgot to say that it knits up really quickly. The base is knit using two strands, the leafy bit is knit separately and then joined by knitting one stitch from the base and one stitch from the leaf section together (easier than it sounds).

I've just finished the main pumpkin section, and am just about to do the stem. I need to practice doing short rows again first though, as they're used to give shape to the stem.

lisaH

24-06-2006, 14:17

Here (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Pumpkin.jpg) is what the pumpkin hat looks like at the minute. I've just started the decreases for the top section.

Aw cute - its coming on quickly isnt it:D You are going to be struggling with te Elfines just like me soon:hihi:

LisaH xxx

Hecate

24-06-2006, 15:24

It's done (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/Pumpkin2.jpg)! Well, apart from the pressing to straighten out all the little leaves and even out the pumpkin stitches a bit.

It was a really simple, fast knit. I think I'm going to have to make Baby Tart (http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEwinter03/PATTbabytart.html) next...

lisaH

24-06-2006, 17:11

Very cute Hecate:) For someone claiming not to do children you seem to be knitting a lot for them:wink: :hihi:

LisaH xxx

Hecate

24-06-2006, 17:35

Very cute Hecate:) For someone claiming not to do children you seem to be knitting a lot for them:wink: :hihi:

LisaH xxx
LOL I know. Friends, and friends of friends though :D . I do enjoy making little things; so much quicker (and not many adults would let me knit a pumpkin hat for them either :hihi: ).

turra21

24-06-2006, 18:54

How sweet the pumpkin hat is. There is a local agricultural show up here in August in which I usually enter something in the "industrial" section, designed for cooking, crafts flowers etc. There is a class called "A child's knitted beanie". I'm told a beanie is a hat so if I get my finger out I might be able to knit it or the berry hat (http://www.getknitted.com/cgi-bin/sh000001.pl?REFPAGE=http%3a%2f%2fwww%2egetknitted% 2ecom%2facatalog%2fsearch%2ehtml&WD=hats%20baby&PN=Babies_and_Children%2ehtml%23aFT_2fCH_2d36_2fPT #aFT_2fCH_2d36_2fPT) from Fibre trends for the show.Any body got any other suggestions for this class?
Only problem is I have no babies to give it to:(

Hecate

24-06-2006, 19:22

The Baby Tart (http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEwinter03/PATTbabytart.html) hat from Knitty is very similar, if you want a free pattern.

You could also check out the range of Debbie Bliss books; I know she's done quite a few patterns for babies which are rather lovely.

lisaH

24-06-2006, 19:42

I like strawberry hats - this (http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/kwe-strawcap.html) one is free and suitable for a 4-6yo - shame I have boys:)

LisaH xxx

carriewarr

25-06-2006, 11:19

Here's a pic of the dog coat I've just finished. Another one made for my current obsession - www.k9knitters.co.uk! I used Wendy Unique Super Chunky which is a fab wool to knit with - so soft, and it just grows before your eyes!

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a155/carriewarr/Picture009.jpg

(Sorry, can't seem to work out how to do linky things...)

(And, yes, I know it's way to big for Holly who is modelling the coat - but it was made to measure for a rescue greyhound....who is significantly bigger!)

Cheers, Carrie

turra21

25-06-2006, 11:52

Hecate

25-06-2006, 13:09

Hecate

25-06-2006, 13:12

Well, another project bites the dust. This sock knitting lark is soooo addictive. The Lorna's laces is super to work with so soft but doesn't like frogging:(
Concertina socks (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/concertina1-1.jpg) are done; now I need another project. Errmm:o is it to be my lace scarf, or maybe the elfines socks, or even a baby hat for Turriff Show?!?!? Hmmm let me think now....
Those look amazing - they're incredibly neat! Have you blocked them, or are they straight off the needles? I like the subtle stripes in the yarn too.

I'd have a go at either a baby hat (very quick and fun to knit), or the Elfines (though you've got to use the Magic Loop method if you do, so you can struggle along with me :D ).

carriewarr

25-06-2006, 14:08

Carrie, Holly looks so patient standing there in the doggie coat. She looks like she's used to being a canine model :) .

As I think I've already said on a previous thread, I think dog coats are an excellent idea, especially for those little ones who feel the cold easily.

It could be my computer, but I couldn't get the link to the K9 knitters to work :( .

EDIT: Forget to mention that I like the look of that yarn. Does it have a feel of chenille to it? It looks like it has a sort of velvety texture. Nice colours too.

You should see the look in Holly's eyes when I approach her with my latest design !!! Can't say she's that a willing a helper!

Yes, I'm struggling to get into www.k9knitters.co.uk today - I know that there was another batch of coats to be loaded up, so the lovely chap who looks after the web site for us may be doing that atm.

Re the wool, yes it has got a chenille feel to it. It's 52% merino wool, 43% acrylic and 5% polyester. The bonus is, it's quite light (but warm) and machine washable/tumble dry-able too. So very practical.

(Would now be a good time to confess that I've just bought 50-odd balls of the stuff on ebay....??!!! Wool addicts 'r' us!)

Cheers, Carrie

lisaH

25-06-2006, 14:29

Well, another project bites the dust. This sock knitting lark is soooo addictive. The Lorna's laces is super to work with so soft but doesn't like frogging:(
Concertina socks (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/concertina1-1.jpg) are done; now I need another project. Errmm:o is it to be my lace scarf, or maybe the elfines socks, or even a baby hat for Turriff Show?!?!? Hmmm let me think now....
Crikey you are so quick - You have managed to finish 2 pairs of socks and Im still only halfway through half a pair:( They look lovely btw:D

LisaH xxx

Hecate

25-06-2006, 15:09

...Would now be a good time to confess that I've just bought 50-odd balls of the stuff on ebay....??!!! Wool addicts 'r' us!...
Good grief, and I thought I was bad :hihi: .

Speaking of yarn purchases, my Posh Yarn should arrive tomorrow! I ordered a skein of Highland Mist (surprisingly enough), and another of Starboard. Now to find the perfect patterns...

carriewarr

25-06-2006, 15:29

Good grief, and I thought I was bad :hihi: .

Yes, but at under £1 a ball (even taking account of postage) I could hardly resist....!

Cheers, Carrie

Hecate

25-06-2006, 15:32

Yes, but at under £1 a ball (even taking account of postage) I could hardly resist....!

Cheers, Carrie
No, I agree, it's a bargain. Well done for getting in there and snapping it up!

lisaH

25-06-2006, 16:41

Good grief, and I thought I was bad :hihi: .

Speaking of yarn purchases, my Posh Yarn should arrive tomorrow! I ordered a skein of Highland Mist (surprisingly enough), and another of Starboard. Now to find the perfect patterns...

Mine too (Lichen - although Im nowhere near being ready to actually use it) - although I was hoping it would turn up whilst hubby was away;) I wonder if she dyes to order or if she just posts out on one day?

LisaHxxx

Rooty

25-06-2006, 17:20

I've finished the main body of the blanket and cast it off about 5 minutes ago! Yey! Finally! Pics coming soon....just took them but have got to leave for work in 10 minutes. Just thought i'd share my little news, boyf isn't very enthusiastic :rolleyes: :hihi: Off to John Lewis tomorrow if they have any 3 1/4mm circular needles and will make a start on the edgings :help: :confused: :P

carriewarr

25-06-2006, 21:28

It could be my computer, but I couldn't get the link to the K9 knitters to work :( .

Am pleased to announce that www.k9knitters.co.uk is back up and running, after a very long sleep this afternoon!

Cheers, Carrie

lisaH

26-06-2006, 10:16

Mine too (Lichen - although Im nowhere near being ready to actually use it) - although I was hoping it would turn up whilst hubby was away;) I wonder if she dyes to order or if she just posts out on one day?

LisaHxxx

It arrived (and whilst hubby was taking number 1 son to school too:D). Its very yummy and just what I wanted for the leaves socks:D Just got to finish at least this Elfine, the Zig Zig scarf and um Samus:blush:

LisaH xxx

beansforyou

26-06-2006, 11:12

Hi,

Not the best pic in the world, but heres the beginning of my scarf (http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5657/3224/1600/Picture%20015.jpg)

I'm a bit further on now, it might be done for xmas lol

Hecate

26-06-2006, 11:47

Hi,

Not the best pic in the world, but heres the beginning of my scarf (http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5657/3224/1600/Picture%20015.jpg)

I'm a bit further on now, it might be done for xmas lol
I really like that colour :) . It'd look great with a long fringe made from the same yarn too.

This knitting lark's addictive; I bet you have it done long before Christmas.

lisaH

26-06-2006, 12:09

Hi,

Not the best pic in the world, but heres the beginning of my scarf (http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5657/3224/1600/Picture%20015.jpg)

I'm a bit further on now, it might be done for xmas lol

Nice colour and its coming on really well:D Whats the yarn out of interest?

LisaH xxx

beansforyou

26-06-2006, 12:56

The yarn is sirdar denim ultra shade 0638

I had started this before, but I had done knit on one side then purl the other, and after about 4 feet of scarf it was really curling in.

After reading a bit more of stitch & bitch and reasliing I should be k2 p2 I unravelled it all and started again :rolleyes:

I am going to add fringing at the ends, it's really soft and snuggly!

Hecate

26-06-2006, 13:22

Beansforyou, if you ever want to do a scarf (or something similar) in stocking stitch (knit one side, purl on the other), what you could do is add a border of garter stitch (knit both sides). This would prevent the fabric from curling at the edges.

What you'd do is:

Row 1: Knit.
Row 2: K2, P to last two stitches, K2.
Repeat these two rows.

For a wider garter stitch border, just do more knit stitches in the second row (say 3 or 4 at each end).

I must say that I prefer the k2 P2 rib though. That will also make it feel a little chunkier and warmer.

Rooty

26-06-2006, 13:51

Well heres the photos of the blanket:

Photo 1 (http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g51/rooty2/finishedcopy.jpg)
Photo 2 (http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g51/rooty2/fin2copy.jpg)
Photo 3 (http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g51/rooty2/DSCN0570.jpg)- Photo 3 is a 'problem area' i've found, turns out knitting while watching Lost/24/Desperate Housewives etc. means my knitting has suffered...theres an area here (the pictures not great so you might not be able to see it) where its got about 3 rows of stocking stitch where it hould be garter stitch...whats funny is i've actually took it in turns knitting and purling in the wrong place! But...i'm gonna let it go, i did notice it before i cast off and decided i could live with it, its an original now :P Bugs me slightly though. Thats the only mistake i've spotted so far.

Also apologies the photos aren't very clear/bright.

Rooty.

beansforyou

26-06-2006, 14:18

Thats lovely rooty, I can't wait to try something a bit more adventurous with pattern etc.

I've only just started lifting my eyes from my knitting for a breif glance at the tv, I have to keep leaving it for a bit because my eyes are going funny :lol:

Thanks for the tip Hectate - funnily enough I had just seen a photo of a rug someone had knitted with a nice border around it and was going to post asking how you do that :)

Hecate

26-06-2006, 14:55

I'll actually amend those instructions a little bit to include a top and bottom border of garter stitch too; that should definitely prevent curling.

All you'd do is knit about four rows of garter stitch (knit every row) at the top and bottom edges of the work. You'd need to experiment a little bit, to make sure that the width of the top and bottom edge matched the width of left and right edges.

Hecate

26-06-2006, 15:01

Rooty, the blanket looks lovely. I had to look really closely to spot the 'problem area'. I know what you mean about it niggling though. My last pair of Jaywalker socks (still not finished!!) have what to me is a glaring error in one of the border bits. No one else has spotted it yet though.

It feels like about five minutes since you were asking for help with the lace bit of the pattern - that was just before this group was set up, wasn't it? Time flies!

turra21

26-06-2006, 17:33

Those look amazing - they're incredibly neat! Have you blocked them, or are they straight off the needles? I like the subtle stripes in the yarn too.

I'd have a go at either a baby hat (very quick and fun to knit), or the Elfines (though you've got to use the Magic Loop method if you do, so you can struggle along with me :D ).

Thanks Hecate, you are too kind.

They were almost straight off the needles, all I had done was gently steam them and pat with my hand to smooth out the lace work.
As far as the magic loop method goes I have used it for my last two pairs of socks - Tigger was toe up like the elfines (but not patterned) and concertina was top down. I prefer magic loop to dpns if I'm honest.

turra21

26-06-2006, 17:40

Rooty, that blanket is looking fantastic, as you say your little mistake means that it is completely original. You are not alone in little mistakes, you just have to balance whether you can live with it against how long would it take to put it right. 9 times out of 10 you will convince yourself that you can live with it. Best of luck with the border.

Jabberwocky

26-06-2006, 17:50

Ok a quick question:
Are any types of wool harder than others to work with? Know what I mean? Has a tighter thread or something? Do they need different types of needle?

Rooty

26-06-2006, 19:00

Thanx guys i'm very pleased with it (except for the silly bit, which i'll ignore and not tell mum about ;) ) I'm pleased to have it off the needles finally although it will be going on my new 3.25mm circular soon, when i've had a good study of the edging instructions and knittinghelp video. (btw, send a gal in john lewis for a knitting needle and she comes out with 2 balls of yarn and a baby cardi x 2 and hat pattern!)

Beansforyou - i know what you mean about it sending your eyes funny i have to look away for awhile sometimes as i can't focus very well for ages. Hope i'm not short sighted and long sighted, if thats possible :confused:

Hecate - Thanx and yep just before the group was set up, maybe jan/feb i think, time definitley flies!!

Turra21 - Thanx for good luck wishes on the border...i'll need it! :P

lisaH

26-06-2006, 19:38

lisaH

26-06-2006, 19:53

Ok a quick question:
Are any types of wool harder than others to work with? Know what I mean? Has a tighter thread or something? Do they need different types of needle?

You have different gauges of yarn which are used for different things. You can have wool or synthetics. In my experience I would say a fluffy yarn is more difficult to knit with (something like snowflake). You can get different types of needles too - metal, bamboo, wood or plastic. Bamboo are lovely to knit with but more expensive, metal needles are 'slippier' and good for quick knitting, dont know about plastic as Ive never used them. You need to match the needle size with the yarn gauge - or finished product.

Have you a project in mind - that would help this answer?

LisaHxxx

Jabberwocky

26-06-2006, 21:06

You have different gauges of yarn which are used for different things. You can have wool or synthetics. In my experience I would say a fluffy yarn is more difficult to knit with (something like snowflake). You can get different types of needles too - metal, bamboo, wood or plastic. Bamboo are lovely to knit with but more expensive, metal needles are 'slippier' and good for quick knitting, dont know about plastic as Ive never used them. You need to match the needle size with the yarn gauge - or finished product.

Have you a project in mind - that would help this answer?

LisaHxxx
Thanks for the reply :)
I dont have a particular project in mind- I dont think I`d have the patience or intelligence to even attempt to try making a garment in this way, but I was looking at some of the pics and reading the comments and I found it interesting, I suspected that, as in most things, theres far more to it all than meets the eye. I`m going to be visitng here more often, if no one minds, it really IS intresting stuff. I just hope you dont mind me asking aparrantly stupid questions from time to time.

Hecate

26-06-2006, 21:39

...As far as the magic loop method goes I have used it for my last two pairs of socks...
Well, I'm mightily impressed. I just can't seem to get into it. I've followed about three sets of different instructions, and I still end up knitting inside out. Plus, the M1 increases tend to look a little bobbly and lumpy. I've no idea why.

I will persevere with it though. I'm determined that the Elfines will be done using the Magic Loop method and the LL yarn. I don't give up that easily :D.

Hecate

26-06-2006, 21:58

Ok a quick question:
Are any types of wool harder than others to work with? Know what I mean? Has a tighter thread or something? Do they need different types of needle?
Some types of yarn are more difficult to work with than others. Beginners usually start off with an aran-weight or worsted-weight yarn (imagine the sort of stuff that goes into a not-too-chunky jumper), and around a 5 mm needle.

The yarns vary from what's called lace-weight (http://www.etsy.com/get_jpg_detail_image.php?image_id=107162) (or fingering), to super-chunky (http://www.theshearingshed.com.au/bigpix/rowan%20big%20wool.jpg), with varying thicknesses inbetween.

Then you need to take into account what the yarn's made of. The basic wools are easiest to knit with. Mohair (http://ca.geocities.com/adelelee@rogers.com/passioknit/img/yarn/rowan_kidsilk_liqueur.jpg) can be difficult, because of all the loose fibres floating around. The so-called novelty yarns can be a pain in the bum to knit with: the eyelash (http://www.fibersexpress.com/ebay/june/SingleYarns06_15/TrendsetterCrisantemoRed.jpg) and ladder (http://i9.ebayimg.com/03/i/03/72/ed/b5_1_b.JPG) yarns etc. They're a bit naff too, if you ask me.

What needles you use varies according to the thickness of the yarn and personal preference. Generally speaking, the thicker the yarn the thicker the needle used. Each knitting pattern specifies a gauge (the number of stitches and rows per inch), and the needle size is chosen in order to obtain this gauge.

The personal preference is the choice of needle material: plastic, metal, bamboo or wood mainly, though you can get glass needles too, and needles made out of the milk protein casein. My own preference is for bamboo, as they're not too slippy and are lovely and light.

Welcome to the group, by the way :wave: .

Jabberwocky

26-06-2006, 22:02

Some types of yarn are more difficult to work with than others. Beginners usually start off with an aran-weight or worsted-weight yarn (imagine the sort of stuff that goes into a not-too-chunky jumper), and around a 5 mm needle.

The yarns vary from what's called lace-weight (http://www.etsy.com/get_jpg_detail_image.php?image_id=107162) (or fingering), to super-chunky (http://www.theshearingshed.com.au/bigpix/rowan%20big%20wool.jpg), with varying thicknesses inbetween.

Then you need to take into account what the yarn's made of. The basic wools are easiest to knit with. Mohair (http://ca.geocities.com/adelelee@rogers.com/passioknit/img/yarn/rowan_kidsilk_liqueur.jpg) can be difficult, because of all the loose fibres floating around. The so-called novelty yarns can be a pain in the bum to knit with: the eyelash (http://www.fibersexpress.com/ebay/june/SingleYarns06_15/TrendsetterCrisantemoRed.jpg) and ladder (http://i9.ebayimg.com/03/i/03/72/ed/b5_1_b.JPG) yarns etc. They're a bit naff too, if you ask me.

What needles you use varies according to the thickness of the yarn and personal preference. Generally speaking, the thicker the yarn the thicker the needle used. Each knitting pattern specifies a gauge (the number of stitches and rows per inch), and the needle size is chosen in order to obtain this gauge.

The personal preference is the choice of needle material: plastic, metal, bamboo or wood mainly, though you can get glass needles too, and needles made out of the milk protein casein. My own preference is for bamboo, as they're not too slippy and are lovely and light.

Welcome to the group, by the way :wave: .

Thanks for the welcome.
So, if three people attempted to make the exact same garment out of the same material, and they were all equally skilled, but used different needles, would the garments come out differently?

beansforyou

26-06-2006, 22:03

Thanks for the reply :)
I suspected that, as in most things, theres far more to it all than meets the eye.

Oh, I have just learnt ALL that for myself :lol:

I only started knitting about two weeks ago, in my innocence I wandered aimlessly into a wool shop whilst on holiday - and came out baffled and perplexed with a bag full of stuff half hour later.

I seem to spend more time reading about knitting than actually knitting :rolleyes:

beansforyou

26-06-2006, 22:05

Thanks for the welcome.
So, if three people attempted to make the exact same garment out of the same material, and they were all equally skilled, but used different needles, would the garments come out differently?

Even if they used exactly the same everything, needles included, the garments would all come out slightly different, as everyone knits to a different gauge, or tightness, some knit fast, some slow, loose, tight etc.

I think it's one of the reasons why I've taken to it so much, I like the thought that my item is totally unique (in a good way hopefully!)

Jabberwocky

26-06-2006, 22:05

Oh, I have just learnt ALL that for myself :lol:

I only started knitting about two weeks ago, in my innocence I wandered aimlessly into a wool shop whilst on holiday - and came out baffled and perplexed with a bag full of stuff half hour later.

I seem to spend more time reading about knitting than actually knitting :rolleyes:
So from a complete novice you picked up a pair of needles and started to knit? I wouldnt know even where to begin to start.

beansforyou

26-06-2006, 22:08

well, my mum tried to show me how to knit numerous times when I was a child, and for some reason I could never get the hang of it, I wouldn't have a clue what to do the next time I picked up the needles.

But I have always done other needlework, crafts etc.

Then whilst on holiday I bought the said stuff, and my mother showed me the basics - I also bought a good book, but personally I find it hard to follow diagrams of where knots go etc, so having Mum there was better :)

Hecate

26-06-2006, 22:10

Thanks for the welcome.
So, if three people attempted to make the exact same garment out of the same material, and they were all equally skilled, but used different needles, would the garments come out differently?
Absolutely. A larger diameter needle would result in a knitted fabric that was looser than a fabric knitted on a smaller diameter needle. The garment knitted on the larger needles would consequently be larger than one knitted on smaller needles.

A complicating factor is that different people knit with varying degrees of tightness. If a knitter pulls the yarn tightly when s/he makes a stitch, the stitches will be smaller and hence the fabric tighter than when the yarn isn't pulled so tightly.

So, two people knitting on, for example, 4 mm needles and using the same yarn might produce a fabric which has a different gauge (stitches and rows per inch). A tight knitter may have to use a 4.5 mm or 5 mm needle to obtain the same gauge as a loose knitter using 4 mm needles.

Hecate

26-06-2006, 22:12

So from a complete novice you picked up a pair of needles and started to knit? I wouldnt know even where to begin to start.
You're in the right place then. What do you want to know? I'll have you knitting in no time :) .

Jabberwocky

26-06-2006, 22:13

Jabberwocky

26-06-2006, 22:15

You're in the right place then. What do you want to know? I'll have you knitting in no time :) .
I want to know everything I think, but I wouldnt subject anyone to teaching me to knit. Its too cruel to contemplate.

beansforyou

26-06-2006, 22:16

It's trying to keep your childrens fingerprints off it thats the really hard bit :lol:

Hecate

26-06-2006, 22:19

I remember my sis in law trying to teach me to knit when I was about 10, I was so bad that she was on the verge of killing me.
Im finding this interesting and I utterly agree that a garment made by an individual has their..."mark?" "Fingerprint?" on it (Hard to find the right words)...Their "specialness". That makes it more valuable than any mass-produced thing.
That's exactly it. I listen to a fair few podcasts; one inparticular - Cast-On - is especially good. The presenter was talking about this very issue only a few episodes ago.

Not to get too romantic and ditzy about it, but I like the idea that a little bit of the knitter - what s/he's feeling and thinking at the time, a bit of the atmosphere - is knitted into the fabric along with the wool. This is particularly the case when you're knitting for someone you love (or is that a bit too :gag: ?) In my case, it's probably equally likely to be bits of cat fur, but you get the idea.

Jabberwocky

26-06-2006, 22:25

That's exactly it. I listen to a fair few podcasts; one inparticular - Cast-On - is especially good. The presenter was talking about this very issue only a few episodes ago.

Not to get too romantic and ditzy about it, but I like the idea that a little bit of the knitter - what s/he's feeling and thinking at the time, a bit of the atmosphere - is knitted into the fabric along with the wool. This is particularly the case when you're knitting for someone you love (or is that a bit too :gag: ?) In my case, it's probably equally likely to be bits of cat fur, but you get the idea.
I know exactly what you mean and I was struggling to put it into roughly the words that you used. A well made garment, I suppose could even become a family heirloom, passed down from generation to generation and in lots of ways is more "Telling" about the person who made it than a hundred photos. As I typed that, I remembered the family quilts that the americans are so fond of, some of them go back for over 200 years and theyre STILL being added to. Its living history and the people who, through the years have held it and smelled at it, and slept under it and added to it and even accidentally damaged part of it are all a part of it, all adding their uniqueness to it. Its a direct link to our ancestors that nothing else can quite match in the same way.

Rooty

27-06-2006, 19:02

Well being off work today for being poorly i've been getting on with my border and its come on quite nicely if i must say so myself :P Hecate you were right i was worrying over nothing, picking up stitches and M1 are not very difficult. I've been fine, only thing bugging me is that bloomin circular needle (im having to force practically every stitch over the 'bump' not good for the yarn or my patience) but being optimistic i'm hoping the new one will arrive tomorrow :)

Heres a couple of pics...sorry i get carried away with the camera:

http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g51/rooty2/DSCN0578.jpg

http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g51/rooty2/DSCN0576.jpg

http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g51/rooty2/DSCN0577.jpg

Hecate

27-06-2006, 19:05

That looks excellent! I really like that border; it looks very classy. It fits on perfectly with the regular squares pattern and picks up the lace motif. You've done it really quickly too. Don't work too fast, or you'll have it done before the Addi Turbo gets to you :) .

I imagine you have to do all the four borders separately and then join the corners?

turra21

27-06-2006, 19:18

That looks lovely Rooty, If I was your Mum would be very proud to wrap my new baby in it. Keep up the good work!!

Rooty

27-06-2006, 19:34

Thanx, Hecate, yeah i know, thats one of the reasons i'm hoping the addi turbo arrives tomorrow! You guessed right, all borders done seperatley and the corners joined at the end

Aw, thanx Turra :blush: thats really sweet.

beansforyou

27-06-2006, 20:09

Wow you've got so much done in one day!

What is M1? Make one stitch?

I bought a new crochet for beginners book today, why am I finding crocheting so so hard??

I really want to get into it, but I find it really difficult to follow books where stitches are concerned, I find they always seem to leave out the important bit.

I went charity shop hunting today, and found some gorgeous wool, 11 balls fo brand new JaegerCotton Flamme in a really deep pink (20p a ball!) and some nice Sirdar in Barrier reef.

My little hoard is coming on now, i've got about 70+ balls due from ebay as well :rolleyes:

Better get the scarf done quick!

Hecate

27-06-2006, 20:32

...What is M1? Make one stitch?...
Yes, that's it. It's a way of making an increase. There's more about it in this (http://www.sheffieldforum.co.uk/showpost.php?p=1267653&postcount=4) post.
...I bought a new crochet for beginners book today, why am I finding crocheting so so hard??

I really want to get into it, but I find it really difficult to follow books where stitches are concerned, I find they always seem to leave out the important bit....
I struggle with crochet too. I've mastered (just about) the basics (single, double etc), but I've yet to move onto doing anything vaguely creative or interesting with them. This (http://www.nexstitch.com/pat_sweetpea.html) shawl will be first on my list though (the pattern's in The Happy Hooker book too).

I used these (http://www.crochet.org/lessons/lessonr/lessonr.html) instructions from the Crochet Guild of America to teach myself. Be careful though; the American terminology is a little different from the British. There's a 'translation' here (scroll down to near the bottom of the page).

I also used this book: Quick Crochet Huge Hooks (http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/ASIN/1845330218/qid=1151436568/sr=8-1/ref=sr_8_xs_ap_i1_xgl/026-3570052-5524426).
...I went charity shop hunting today, and found some gorgeous wool, 11 balls fo brand new JaegerCotton Flamme in a really deep pink (20p a ball!) and some nice Sirdar in Barrier reef.

My little hoard is coming on now, i've got about 70+ balls due from ebay as well :rolleyes:
How is it that I never find bargains like that? Unfair! :hihi:

lisaH

27-06-2006, 20:54

Even if they used exactly the same everything, needles included, the garments would all come out slightly different, as everyone knits to a different gauge, or tightness, some knit fast, some slow, loose, tight etc.

I think it's one of the reasons why I've taken to it so much, I like the thought that my item is totally unique (in a good way hopefully!)

Oh and of course mine would probably have more mistakes than everyone elses :hihi:

LisaH xxx

lisaH

27-06-2006, 20:57

I want to know everything I think, but I wouldnt subject anyone to teaching me to knit. Its too cruel to contemplate.

There are some fab online videos you know - there are some links in the links section. they are really useful in showing you how to do something. If you did fancy trying Im sure we could suggest something really simple for you to start on.

LisaH xxx

Jabberwocky

27-06-2006, 20:58

There are some fab online videos you know - there are some links in the links section. they are really useful in showing you how to do something. If you did fancy trying Im sure we could suggest something really simple for you to start on.

LisaH xxx
I was looking in google earlier...the more I see the more im thinking of starting something.

lisaH

27-06-2006, 20:59

turra21

27-06-2006, 21:42

Next project ordered - A berry cute hat won in the end. Also ordered a metal addi turbo 2.5mm as I snapped mine this afternoon:(

lisaH

27-06-2006, 21:50

Next project ordered - A berry cute hat won in the end. Also ordered a metal addi turbo 2.5mm as I snapped mine this afternoon:(

Bad news about the bamboo, but I dont think you will regret getting the addi turbo:D What were you making when you snapped the bamboo?

LisaH xxx

turra21

27-06-2006, 22:05

What were you making when you snapped the bamboo?
LisaH xxx

I'm actually supposed to be stitching now, a something for the local show, The hat will be for the show too, next item on the list is my lead and follow lace scarf, (http://www.heartstringsfiberarts.com/a52.shtm) but I feel that will be too complicated to knit in my lunch hour and so I'd started some more socks (http://www.poshyarn.co.uk/patterns.html) scroll down after the scarf, I've stolen the 4 rows of pattern and am knitting the socks toe up and playing with adjusting existing patterns "just to pass the time" in some Regia yarn (http://gallery.bcentral.com/GID4728469P3583401-Knitting/Knitting-Yarn/Regia-Yarn/Sock-Yarn-Regia-Wool-4-Ply-Colors/Sock-Yarn-Regia-4-Ply-Wool-Mini-Ringel/Regia-Sock-Yarn-Wool-4-Ply-Mini-Ringel-Color-Konigsblau-5219.aspx). My youngest daughter's second request for "more socks please Mum".
I'm still looking for a pattern for the celestial merino but that will come, I'm waiting for Hecate to do a tutorial on knitting with beads:hihi:

Betchya sorry you asked now:rolleyes:

beansforyou

27-06-2006, 23:42

Woohoo I've finished my scarf! :)

It's about 60 inches long, nice and chunky and snuggly, for this 'summer' lol.

Scarf (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/Picture016.jpg)

And a close up (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v499/jmb123/Picture017-1.jpg)

I know I made a small shoulder bag for my ipod on holiday, but I feel this was my real first piece.

Comments & advice welcome :)

Rooty

28-06-2006, 00:04

Looks great beansforyou! Well done and congrats on your first project. I've got some sirdar denim ultra that needs using since i gave up on a jumper ages ago. I'll probably make a scarf out of it now. :) ...one day.

beansforyou

28-06-2006, 00:10

I'm looking now for an easy pattern to make some mittens, or fingerless gloves or something - I quite like the ones that stop just past the thumb (look easier to knit as well)

Alot of patterns call for double ended needles though, which is a bit daunting :S

Hecate

28-06-2006, 05:09

I was looking in google earlier...the more I see the more im thinking of starting something.
Don't look in Google; look here, in the recommended links (http://www.sheffieldforum.co.uk/showthread.php?t=98114) section! :D . We've done the Googling for you.

Seriously, what do you want to have a go at? I bet we can find something suitable for you.

Hecate

28-06-2006, 05:14

Next project ordered - A berry cute hat won in the end. Also ordered a metal addi turbo 2.5mm as I snapped mine this afternoon:(
I'm thinking of doing that one too. Let me know what yarn you choose. I highly recommend the Cascade 220. If you have a look at the Knitting Zone (http://www.knittingzone.com/catalog/index.php?cName=yarn-by-name-cascade-220), they have a great range of colours. Get Knitted (http://www.getknitted.com/acatalog/Cascade_220.html) have started doing Cascade 220, though their colour range isn't quite as extensive at the minute.

Both shops are happy to recommend colours if you email them, as it sometimes isn't easy to match the colour on the screen to what it will look like in reality.

Hecate

28-06-2006, 05:16

...I'm waiting for Hecate to do a tutorial on knitting with beads:hihi:
It's coming soon, I promise :D .

Hecate

28-06-2006, 05:19

Woohoo I've finished my scarf! :)...
It looks fantastic, especially with that long fringe. Wasn't it only the other day you were saying that it wouldn't be done until Christmas? ;) . I did warn you it was addictive :) .

Hecate

28-06-2006, 05:30

I'm looking now for an easy pattern to make some mittens, or fingerless gloves or something - I quite like the ones that stop just past the thumb (look easier to knit as well)...
Is this (http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEwinter02/PATTvoodoo.html) the sort of thing you mean? Sort of fingerless gloves, but without the bottom bit of the fingers too.

I used this (http://www.mcadirect.com/shop/product_info.php/products_id/671) pattern to make some mittens last winter. I also made a pair of gloves, but I found the process of knitting the fingers really faffy. The mittens are easier, because the thumb section is knitted flat, and then seamed, rather than being knit as a tube.

...Alot of patterns call for double ended needles though, which is a bit daunting :S
Using DPNs for the first time can seem a bit daunting, and I'd be the first to admit that when you first start using them it feels a bit like trying to knit with a particularly aggressive hedgehog :hihi: . I absolutely guarantee that it gets easier really quickly. It's well worth persevering with it.

Have a look here (http://www.sheffieldforum.co.uk/showthread.php?t=99738). The first few posts are not specifically about socks. There's also some useful information about using DPNs in the recommended links (http://www.sheffieldforum.co.uk/showthread.php?t=98114) section. You'll find that the sock-knitting tutorials go into the basics of using DPNs before getting down to the business of using them for socks.

beansforyou

28-06-2006, 08:52

Is this the sort of thing you mean? Sort of fingerless gloves, but without the bottom bit of the fingers too.

Yes they are what I meant :) I guess I chose them as I was chickening out, and i've seen some patterns where you can do them on normal needles :lol:

Maybe I should be brave..

Hecate

28-06-2006, 10:09

Yes they are what I meant :) I guess I chose them as I was chickening out, and i've seen some patterns where you can do them on normal needles :lol:

Maybe I should be brave..
But if you do them on normal needles, you'll have the pain of all that seaming to do. Also, just think how uncomfortable those seams will be against your skin...

Go on, have a go with the DPNs. You know you want to... :D .

lisaH

28-06-2006, 17:21

I'm actually supposed to be stitching now, a something for the local show, The hat will be for the show too, next item on the list is my lead and follow lace scarf, (http://www.heartstringsfiberarts.com/a52.shtm) but I feel that will be too complicated to knit in my lunch hour and so I'd started some more socks (http://www.poshyarn.co.uk/patterns.html) scroll down after the scarf, I've stolen the 4 rows of pattern and am knitting the socks toe up and playing with adjusting existing patterns "just to pass the time" in some Regia yarn (http://gallery.bcentral.com/GID4728469P3583401-Knitting/Knitting-Yarn/Regia-Yarn/Sock-Yarn-Regia-Wool-4-Ply-Colors/Sock-Yarn-Regia-4-Ply-Wool-Mini-Ringel/Regia-Sock-Yarn-Wool-4-Ply-Mini-Ringel-Color-Konigsblau-5219.aspx). My youngest daughter's second request for "more socks please Mum".
I'm still looking for a pattern for the celestial merino but that will come, I'm waiting for Hecate to do a tutorial on knitting with beads:hihi:

Betchya sorry you asked now:rolleyes:

No not at all - sounds as long as my to do list its just Ive got no deadlines:D I really like that scarf and the socks look nice too.

LisaHxxx

lisaH

28-06-2006, 17:22

turra21

28-06-2006, 18:33

beansforyou

28-06-2006, 19:24

hehe, thank god it's not christmas yet!

It took me a about a week I think, once i'd unravelled it all and started again :rolleyes:

I had a go with some dpn earlier, but I think they are too small, they measure about 2mm across the widest part, but have no marking on to say exactly, anyhow, it was a nightmare :lol:

Hecate

28-06-2006, 21:59

...I had a go with some dpn earlier, but I think they are too small, they measure about 2mm across the widest part, but have no marking on to say exactly, anyhow, it was a nightmare :lol:
Mmm, 2 mm is probably the smallest size you'll use. 2.5 mm is the standard size for socks.

If you want to persevere (and you should :) ), you'd be better off starting with a set of 3.5 mm DPNs. I'd recommend using bamboo too, as the metal ones get be a bit heavy and slippy. Don't quote me on this, as I haven't checked, but I think the Regia 6-ply sock yarn has a recommendation for 3.5 mm DPNs. It's a nice thickness to start off with.

beansforyou

28-06-2006, 23:00

Have a look here. The first few posts are not specifically about socks. There's also some useful information about using DPNs in the recommended links section. You'll find that the sock-knitting tutorials go into the basics of using DPNs before getting down to the business of using them for socks.

Denial & using the term 'socks' 3 times, twice in one sentence.

Mmm, 2 mm is probably the smallest size you'll use. 2.5 mm is the standard size for socks.

If you want to persevere (and you should ), you'd be better off starting with a set of 3.5 mm DPNs. I'd recommend using bamboo too, as the metal ones get be a bit heavy and slippy. Don't quote me on this, as I haven't checked, but I think the Regia 6-ply sock yarn has a recommendation for 3.5 mm DPNs. It's a nice thickness to start off with.

Another two sock references :suspect:

Why do I feel like i'm being led down a shadey...socky....alley....

:lol:

You like socks don't you hecate? :)

turra21

29-06-2006, 08:50

Denial & using the term 'socks' 3 times, twice in one sentence.

Another two sock references :suspect:

Why do I feel like i'm being led down a shadey...socky....alley....

:lol:

You like socks don't you hecate? :)

Socks are fantastic things to knit, for the following reasons:

They grow quickly so will fill the knitting gap when you "need" a something on the needles.
You get to use an expensive material such as merino and because you only need about 100g it doesn't cost the earth.
You can experiment with all sorts of patterns to expand your repertoire.
They can be knitted up or down (but don't let this put you off).
AND THEY ARE SIMPLY FUN.

Give them a try. Having used the magic loop method - I won't use dpns but if you don't mind a challenge, you could always just knit a stocking stitch sock while getting to grips with the method!!!!

WE all love socks here!!:hihi:

beansforyou

29-06-2006, 09:30

Hecate

29-06-2006, 09:35

Don't let that turra21 woman lure you away from the DPNs. She's got an evil plan to convert the sock-knitting world to the Magic Loop method :hihi: .

I'm still struggling with it. I think I have a mental block. I get the method; I can see how it's supposed to work, but I still end up knitting inside out!!! It's driving me batty. Plus the increases still look bulky and bobbly!!!

I do like the magic cast on though. It's very nifty and means you can avoid the dreaded Kitchener stitch when you get to the end of the toe.

Must. Persevere. Must. Grasp. Magic. Loop. Method...

Hecate

29-06-2006, 09:40

See this is where my ignorance comes in, as I thought the reason for the sock knitting was because it was difficult, as in, a challenge?

They do look so intricate, I will have a read around and find out about the magic loop, thanks :)
Sock knitting is difficult at first; there's a lot to grasp. I think that one of the reasons I like knitting socks - there's a lot to do in getting the sock finished. You've got the ribbing of the cuff, the pattern for the leg and the foot, turning the heel and picking up the heel stitches (or the short-row heel, if you're that way inclined), the toe shaping and finally the grafting.

The good thing is that it quickly becomes easy, and then you can concentrate on finding the perfect pattern.

There are also many different ways to knit them. The DPN method, the circular needle method (using one for the magic loop method, or you could use two). You can even knit both socks at once, which is what Turra21 did a few weeks ago. Have a look for her photos on here; very impressive.

beansforyou

29-06-2006, 09:41

I've had a quick look around, looks a bit scary tbh...

I've read your tutorial on dpn sock knitting, I might give it a go when i've got my courage up :lol:

At the moment my needles are empty, I don't know what to make next?

I've got alot of mixed balls of wool, I might have a go at starting some bits off for a patchwork throw kinda thing.

Hecate

29-06-2006, 09:49

...At the moment my needles are empty, I don't know what to make next?...
If you want to do something small, how about this (http://knitty.com/ISSUEwinter04/PATTwinecozy.html)? I've been strangely attracted to this pattern for ages, but I haven't got around to making it yet. I like the idea of the embroidered embellishment, and also that it's knitted flat but can be adapted for circular knitting.
...I've got alot of mixed balls of wool, I might have a go at starting some bits off for a patchwork throw kinda thing.
I really like that idea. It's not what you're after (it's crochet), but I'd really, really like to make this (http://www.interweavecrochet.com/2006/materials.asp#babette) blanket. It uses Koigu yarn, which is glorious, but I reckon it's a bit out of my price (and crochet skill) bracket. It reminds me of Klimt paintings.

beansforyou

29-06-2006, 09:52

They're both great ideas, that blanket is stunning, I'd love to have a go at something that looks like that at the end :lol: but in knitting rather than crochet?

I've not tried using two colours or anything yet :(

The bottle covers are good, but I don't think they'd get used enough, i'd rather have a go at making some sort of blanket I think. I'll see what I get up to :)

lisaH

29-06-2006, 10:30

Hecate

29-06-2006, 10:34

LOL magic loop is easy...
No! It's a conspiracy, I tell you!

Halibut

29-06-2006, 10:46

If you want to do something small, how about this (http://knitty.com/ISSUEwinter04/PATTwinecozy.html)? I've been strangely attracted to this pattern for ages, but I haven't got around to making it yet. I like the idea of the embroidered embellishment, and also that it's knitted flat but can be adapted for circular knitting.

I really like that idea. It's not what you're after (it's crochet), but I'd really, really like to make this (http://www.interweavecrochet.com/2006/materials.asp#babette) blanket. It uses Koigu yarn, which is glorious, but I reckon it's a bit out of my price (and crochet skill) bracket. It reminds me of Klimt paintings.
Hecate, as you know, I've always been supportive of your consummate skills with needles and yarn; the blanket is, as you rightly point out Klimtesque and stunning. But the wine cozy is, ahem, a little 'what shall we send to Great Aunt Flo for Christmas this year' perhaps...:)

Hecate

29-06-2006, 10:49

...But the wine cozy is, ahem, a little 'what shall we send to Great Aunt Flo for Christmas this year' perhaps...:)
Well, I did say that I was strangely attracted to it... One of those was going to be your Christmas present too. I suppose I'll have to reconsider now though :( .

Halibut

29-06-2006, 10:56

Well, I did say that I was strangely attracted to it... One of those was going to be your Christmas present too. I suppose I'll have to reconsider now though :( .

The blanket would be just fine!

Strangely attracted to wine cozies...hmmm :suspect:

Hecate

29-06-2006, 11:02

... Strangely attracted to wine cozies...hmmm :suspect:
I won't mention the image that just popped, completely unbidden, into my mind, but it had echoes of Red Hot Chili Peppers :hihi: .

Ahem. Back to the knitting :D .

turra21

29-06-2006, 22:00

Don't let that turra21 woman lure you away from the DPNs. She's got an evil plan to convert the sock-knitting world to the Magic Loop method :hihi:

Now... Do I get offended by this Hecate? Let me think....NO.
Just :( to have been discovered!

I still knit two socks on the one needle because I don't have to worry about doing 1 row too many and changing the dye pattern when using a variegated yarn and you can so easily make the colours run "right" when you do them both at the same time. Each to their own but.....

I. WILL. CONVERT. YOU.CONVERT.YOU.TO.MAGIC.LOOP (Evil laugh)

turra21

29-06-2006, 22:01

No! It's a conspiracy, I tell you!

Haaah, one follower already. Go LisaH

Hecate

29-06-2006, 22:06

...I. WILL. CONVERT. YOU.CONVERT.YOU.TO.MAGIC.LOOP (Evil laugh)
I'd love to be converted, now I think about it, I just can't blumin' well get the hang of it!

I'm going to have to get some Sheffield Forum funds and get an official Knitting Group web cam. I'd send it up to Aberdeenshire and you could do an online video tutorial for me :D .

Hecate

05-07-2006, 07:01

I've finally, finally finished the Jaywalkers! No photo at the minute, because I need to pin them out to block (they're a bit wrinkled). It feels like I've been working on them for the best part of the year.

Now, where did I put that Magic Loop?...

turra21

05-07-2006, 07:56

Thada girl Hecate, Come on you know you can do it;)
Don't let a little thing like magic loop beatchya:thumbsup:

turra21

13-07-2006, 18:51

How's Samus coming on Lisa?

lisaH

13-07-2006, 19:55

How's Samus coming on Lisa?

La la la la - can't hear you. Samus....am I doing Samus:blush: Its well um blocked and well thats as far as it got - you see it got warm and I kind of thought I wouldnt be wearing it for aaaaaagggggggeeeeeees so I could do something else , then the sock siren called and I havent done anything more - smacks wrist. I will try harder Miss I promise:D

LisaH xxx

turra21

14-07-2006, 09:06

Hmmm, I wondered if that had happened!:shakes: :smile:

Rooty

20-07-2006, 15:43

Well i finished the blanket, properly today! All sewed up and has got several pins stuck in at the moment.

Heres what it looked like pre-pinned (http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g51/rooty2/DSCN0804.jpg)
and here it is pinned (http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g51/rooty2/DSCN0806.jpg)and as straight as i can get it (ignore the top right corner, the net curtain blew in the breeze)
and heres a closer picture (http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g51/rooty2/DSCN0808.jpg) where you can see that my little squares aren't quite level with each other which is abit annoying but its not like its going to spend most of the time layed straight out, so its not too important. Do any of the more experienced knitters than me have any idea why that is? is it just the pattern? my knitting? tension?
Apart from that im pleased enough with it and will post a picture of the little one wrapped in it when i take it for Gabrielle. But firstly...it needs covering with damp cloths...

jules13

20-07-2006, 17:35

Thats a lovely blanket, well done! I started one out of a Debbie Bliss book a while ago, i ought to dig it out really!

I finished one half of the Fetching pair from Knitting last night. I'm quite impressed to say its my first glove!

I'll post a pic in a min on my blog:)

lisaH

20-07-2006, 20:53

Well done Rooty that looks beautiful:D

LisaH xxx

Hecate

20-07-2006, 21:00

Rooty, it's beautiful! Very impressive. I think the little bit of uneveness is probably a tension problem when you switch from knit to purl. If you notice, it's going in one direction, so you're perhaps pulling a little tighter on one of the stitches. I must admit that I don't have the experience to work out exactly where the problem is though.

As you say, you won't notice it anyway when it's in use. It's just the pinning out for blocking which is accentuating it.

Hecate

20-07-2006, 21:10

turra21

21-07-2006, 09:14

I've managed to get hold of the camera this morning. But being early my photographic skills haven't come into their own yet but here's an update of what I've been doing lately.

Berry Hat (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/berryhat072006.jpg)

Replacement Berry hat (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/childsknittedbeanie072006.jpg)for reasons previously discussed on this post

Lead or follow lace Scarf (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/leadorfollowlacescarf.jpg)

Slip up socks (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/slipupsocks072006.jpg)

and I've started widdershins from the new knitty. Pics to follow later....

turra21

21-07-2006, 09:22

here's the pic of widdershins (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i217/turra21/widdershins21072006.jpg)

I'm using Celestial Merino dream and it certainly lives up to it's name!

lisaH

21-07-2006, 10:25

Turra21 they all look brilliant:D Im guessing that the scarf is not going to get done for the show though but it looks lovely - are you using lifelines? BTW do you never sleep - your output is amazing:o

LisaHxxx

doodle

21-07-2006, 10:54

The blanket is lovely Rooty.

Hecate

21-07-2006, 11:47

Wow, turra21, I'm mightily impressed :) . There must be something in the water in Aberdeenshire - either that or the cooler weather is more conducive to faster knitting!

I particularly like the replacement baby hat. It's a lovely colour and the flower really sets it off well. I like how the celestial merino is knitting up too.

Rooty

21-07-2006, 17:58

Thanks for the nice comments, the blankets been washed now and feels and smells lovely.

My god Turra21, you don't mess about with your knitting do you?! :o Great stuff you've done by the way! Love the hats!

turra21

21-07-2006, 18:59

Thanks all, Lisa yes I do sleep but I only have 11/2 kids at home and and they are both old enough to realise that when I pick up my needles I'm off bounds. Yeah Right! no serioulsy I do get a good bit of peace to knit. The scarf was intended for a competition within my WRI (WI) institute in January so no hurry. Just as well because the pattern is quite complex with yarn overs etc on every row. The pattern is a 24 row repeat and I've only done 14: I thought I would start using lifelines at the end of a pattern repeat, that way I would know where to start again. I hope I don't need to but I bet I will!!!!!

The show is next weekend by the way and I'm struggling to get the backstitching done on my article in cross stitch which is a spectacle case (http://www.textileheritage.com/spectacle.htm) (Geraniums). I still have to make lemon curd and some swiss milk tablet. Tablet is a cross between toffee and fudge made with condensed milk, butter and sugar and just sooo moreish.

Rooty, the blanket is really good and Gabrielle will adore it expecially as her big sister made it!!

Hecate

21-07-2006, 19:06

I really miss tablet! I did some voluntary computer teaching work with Age Concern in Edinburgh and one of the ladies I taught made a huge batch of it for me at the end of her course. It's lovely stuff; much better than fudge.

I love that geranium case. In fact, I may have to order a kit for myself - I haven't done any cross stitch for a while. I like the terracotta celtic spiral bookmark too, and the sweetpea and columbine ones. I feel an order coming on...

Good luck with getting everything completed in time for next weekend, and with your entries in the show :) .

lisaH

21-07-2006, 19:45

Rooty

21-07-2006, 20:06

yes good luck Turra21, let us know how you get on. :)

Hecate

30-07-2006, 17:11

I've finally, finally blocked the Jaywalkers (http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f40/ppn_2204/JaywalkersDone.jpg)! They've only been on the go since March :roll: . Shame it's far too warm to wear them at the moment.

The yarn is Cherry Tree Hill in Old Rose. It was lovely to work with, as ever.

lisaH

30-07-2006, 19:06

The Jaywalkers look lovely Hecate. When you block socks how do you do it - Im going to have to do it with the Elfines:wink:

Hecate

30-07-2006, 19:21

The Jaywalkers look lovely Hecate. When you block socks how do you do it - Im going to have to do it with the Elfines:wink:
Thank you :) . I use cool water with a wee blob of fabric conditioner. Give them about five minutes or so to make sure they're thoroughly wet then squeeze out the excess water gently. After that, wrap in a towel and blot.

I pin the socks out onto my cork board/blocking mat as I would with any other item I was blocking. I just try to get them as sock-shaped as possible, paying particular attention to the toe, the heel and to the pattern. I also try not to stretch the cuff; just neaten the edges to make sure they're lined up.

I'm sure I should be using the proper sock shapers, but this seems to work so far (and it's cheaper :) ).

Shine

31-07-2006, 09:45

I believe you can make your own sock-shapers by bending a wire coathanger...

Hecate

31-07-2006, 09:52

I believe you can make your own sock-shapers by bending a wire coathanger...
I think turra21 posted a link to an article about that a few weeks ago. I shall have to give it a try.

I reckon Ikea should set up a knitting section to go with the fabrics section they already have. It's not too tenuous a connection; you can knit stuff for the home as well as Clapotises/Clapotes (or whatever the plural is). Sweet cheap bamboo needles ::drool:: .

PS. Shine, I'm going to add your blog to the Knitting Group Members' Blogs section, if that's alright. What shall I call it? The 'Rorschach and Prozac' title or 'Perditaxknit'?

EDIT: Blog added to the listings. Let me know if you want the title changed to 'Perditaxknit' :) .

beansforyou

31-07-2006, 23:10

I've not posted in here for a while, as I had a big tidy up and put all my craft stuff away - and promptly forgot about it :lol:

I hunted out what I had been knitting yesterday, and today I finished my little hat to go with the scarf I made a while back.

No photo's as yet, i'll get some tomorrow.

Hecate

01-08-2006, 07:24

You forgot about knitting! :o :hihi: .

So what's next on the agenda? The Clapotis knitalong starts today (August 1st)... :D .

lisaH

01-08-2006, 21:39

Woo hoo the Elfines are finally done - took nearly 2 months though:( Here are a picture (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/Picture006.jpg) or 2 (http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i221/lisahxxx/Picture005-1.jpg). Going to wind the Koigu P516 into balls to start the Dragon socks tonight:D

turra21

01-08-2006, 22:17

They look really good Lisa. Can you post a link to the dragon socks pattern please? You don't fancy a Clapotis by any chance?:hihi:

lisaH

01-08-2006, 22:29

They look really good Lisa. Can you post a link to the dragon socks pattern please? You don't fancy a Clapotis by any chance?:hihi:

Do you know what I dont really like the Clapotis - Id never have the occasion to wear one - call me weird:o So how are you going to magic loop a Clapotis :hihi:

The dragon socks can be found here (http://www.keyboardbiologist.net/Patterns/HereThereBeDragonSocks.htm)

Hecate

04-08-2006, 06:40

You don't like Clapotis :o . Lisa, you're weird :P .

Hecate

04-08-2006, 06:42

Just spotted the pictures! They're lovely. The pattern works really well, and I like the look of the heel; it gives them a really neat look.

I'm soooo behind on my knitting. Sigh.

gempud

04-08-2006, 10:31

Well I'm so jealous of you all knitting Clapotis that I thought I'd practice using my digital camera and try out how to link to photos in this forum by showing you a couple of my WIPs.

The black one (http://i97.photobucket.com/albums/l235/gempud/DSCF0038.jpg)

and another view (http://i97.photobucket.com/albums/l235/gempud/DSCF0037.jpg)

is a pattern from this months Knitting Magazine called Vanessa which is a cute short sleeved top with a cross over front. I've got as far as nearly finishing the back so far. I think I'm using Patons 100% cotton in black as I had soooo much of it to use up. The pic is complete with cat hairs :blush:
Black yarn and a white cat so do not mix. It's also my first go at re sizing a pattern. Being a 'larger lady', a lot of patterns that I love don't go up to my size, so I thought I'd cast on a couple of extra stitches on this and see what happens. I really don't think the ribbing at the bottom will do me any favours though.

The second thing I am working on is this (http://i97.photobucket.com/albums/l235/gempud/DSCF0036.jpg)

http://i97.photobucket.com/albums/l235/gempud/DSCF0035.jpg

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

It's a tunic top from the same mag. It's using Salsa by Garnstudio. It's the first pattern I've followed actually using the yarn that it calls for, and what gorgeous yarn it is. It's a scrummy ribbon type yarn that feels sooo silky smooth. It's not quite as spangly as it looks in the pic but it's gorge. The only thing that bugs me about it is the cast on turned out so loose and straggly, and also each end of every row is very lose too. I also think it's going to be way too long for me, so it may end up being ripped out and re used for something else when I actually finish it. Also when the pattern called for casting on extra stitches for the arms, I just increased a stitch....nooo idea whether this is the right thing to do. In fact, I think I just decided that I might abandon this little project and see if I can find another pattern that uses this yarn that isn't quite so.....straggly.

Hecate

04-08-2006, 12:07

Gempud, I can so relate to the cat fur problem! I have two cats; Merlin who's a Bengal/tabby cross, and Jesse, who's black and white. Merlin likes to come and sleep next to me when I'm working on something at the computer, and as my corkboard/blocking board is nice and comfy... I had to brush off several whiskers before I took the latest photo of Clapotis. He must have been having a massive grooming session!

Is the crossover top going to be a tie front, like a ballet wrap? I really like that style. I'm a huge fan of V necks. I hate anything too high.

I like the pale colours of the ribbon yarn, though I think I'd prefer it without the metallic bits. I find ribbon yarn a bit of a bugger to work with. I made a throw using Giotto from Colinette, and I was forever sticking my needle right through the centre of it. It did have a tendency to be loose too, because it lacked the elasticity of some yarns.

I'm not sure about the cast-on edge, apart from perhaps suggesting that if you do decide to start again with that yarn, perhaps you could try an alternative cast on method? The longtail cast on is quite stretchy, so it tends to contract a little. That could help.

As for the looseness at the edges, try this trick: knit the first stitch in the row as usual. Then insert the needle in the next stitch, ready to knit it. before you go ahead and knit the stitch, give a nice big tug on the yarn. This will tighten up that first stitch and stop it from being quite so loose. You can do it on the purl side too.

gempud

04-08-2006, 15:04

The crossover top isn't like a ballet one, I don't think. It's in this months Knitting magazine if that helps. I would describe it as more or a smart/casual top, probably something I would wear for work.

As for the ribbon yarn, it's not really metallic, I think the camera flash just made it look that way..it is very smooth and slightly shiny though. I don;t think I like working with ribbon yarn, as you said, it lacks elasticity. The pattern recommends knitting into the back of the first and last stitch on ever row but I find it make the edges look a bit ubsightly, and it just doesn;t seem to work. I may try your idea of giving the yarn a big old tug though. I read somewhere recently that it is apparently liberating to abandon a project in disgust!

Hecate

04-08-2006, 15:35

It's odd, isn't it, how the camera can give deceptive results? I haven't got this month's 'Knitting', but I'm off to Borders later so I'll hve a peek inside (if it isn't inside another one of those annoying plastic bags).

Absolutely abandon the project if you don't think it's working out! If you're not enjoying it, and you don't think you'll be happy with the end result, you'd be better off finding another pattern for the yarn.

Rooty

04-08-2006, 16:20

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'.