tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-247401812024-03-16T07:08:27.223+00:00Lizzy knitsKnitting, crochet and crafts in generalLizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00900642723221525037noreply@blogger.comBlogger170125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24740181.post-35959850488538964382019-03-20T19:14:00.000+00:002019-03-20T19:14:04.619+00:00Slippers, socks and sandals<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uUST3Ukebz4/XJKKpta5j2I/AAAAAAAACQM/XgL6euhFdP01AA9jz-vlyMQNu0FPYohLQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_20180912_224333.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uUST3Ukebz4/XJKKpta5j2I/AAAAAAAACQM/XgL6euhFdP01AA9jz-vlyMQNu0FPYohLQCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_20180912_224333.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
I have long admired the Moonkoosa Boot pattern by Tiny Owl Knits and the many finished versions on Ravelry. So, when I found a big bag of Lopi wool in a charity shop it seemed like the perfect opportunity to give the pattern a try. Lopi is great for felting. The first pair that I knitted was the shortest design - simple slippers. I foolishly ignored the instructions to felt by hand and shoved the knitted slippers into the washing machine. When I took them out it became clear why it is best to do it by hand. The fringes matt together and it is hard work pulling them apart. However after an evening spent teasing them apart and squishing them into a good shape I left them to dry on a radiator. The finished result was pretty good and I was well pleased with them. So much so that I immediately knitted another pair in navy blue Lopi.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s8YTVt3UK14/XJKKqfgUwOI/AAAAAAAACQc/G-8MxlJgvR0txhaYGJLMqpBa7Y5rTTuzQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_20180925_162809.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s8YTVt3UK14/XJKKqfgUwOI/AAAAAAAACQc/G-8MxlJgvR0txhaYGJLMqpBa7Y5rTTuzQCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_20180925_162809.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
I decided to machine felt again and so spent another evening pulling the strands of yarn apart for the fringe. This version was the ankle boot style so there was an extra row of fringing. Unfortunately, the boots are a little too big in the foot and need to be refelted. I am thinking to do this by hand as I don't want the fringe to matt together again. As yet, I haven't got around to doing this. The pattern is really quick and simple to knit up. The finished slippers are really fun . I would recommend it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N1b8UriFaQ8/XJKKdbVG_4I/AAAAAAAACQg/xWdQge3EpJsCVofcHKecJrF5xYfKcySVgCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_20171110_082029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N1b8UriFaQ8/XJKKdbVG_4I/AAAAAAAACQg/xWdQge3EpJsCVofcHKecJrF5xYfKcySVgCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_20171110_082029.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
This winter I have topped up my stock of handknitted socks by several pairs. I love the colourful yarns that you can use to make socks. They are also a small, quick, portable project that fits easily into a handbag. This rainbow pair was knitted from West Yorkshire Spinners sock yarn purchased at John Lewis. It is a lovely yarn that knits up into extremely pleasing stripes.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vWzpSvNdRWY/XJKKptkVo-I/AAAAAAAACQg/7ME0Jhxn-CIhxcxZgDFTFv-gW84o__-bwCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_20170619_135701.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vWzpSvNdRWY/XJKKptkVo-I/AAAAAAAACQg/7ME0Jhxn-CIhxcxZgDFTFv-gW84o__-bwCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_20170619_135701.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S08g0c1TuwI/XJKKpo5fgeI/AAAAAAAACQY/iKQ480awOggDcIlKnjBTPR37vQ4UOX2LgCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_20170621_070630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S08g0c1TuwI/XJKKpo5fgeI/AAAAAAAACQY/iKQ480awOggDcIlKnjBTPR37vQ4UOX2LgCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_20170621_070630.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
Last Summer I made quite few pairs of these flip flop sandals and gave most of them away as gifts. I found the pattern on Ravelry, of course! The crochet top turns a pair of flipflops into a really comfortable and stylish sandal. It also doesn't take very much yarn - less than 50g. I found that an acrylic and cotton mix gives the most comfortable pair of sandals. With flipflops being only about £1 a pair it is a fun, inexpensive project.Lizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00900642723221525037noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24740181.post-71892102704603219332019-03-20T14:40:00.000+00:002019-03-20T14:42:02.694+00:00Twiddlemuffs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HMOkfHE2tv8/XJJNTlgwRSI/AAAAAAAACPo/Zkcxu3JE-Toyz9XPyfNJvSHMXWKtdgF4wCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20170608_163121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HMOkfHE2tv8/XJJNTlgwRSI/AAAAAAAACPo/Zkcxu3JE-Toyz9XPyfNJvSHMXWKtdgF4wCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_20170608_163121.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
At last I have managed to get back into my blog - with help from my lovely laptop repairs man. Since I last posted there has been a lot of knitting, crochet and sewing going on. Far too much to mention ! So, I will concentrate on a few of my favourite projects. Over the last year I have knitted a vast number of twiddlemuffs which have all been donated to Watford General Hospital . Twiddlemuffs are great fun to make and use up all those scraps of yarn that you don't know what to do with. Friends have kindly donated old keys, broken jewellry, ribbons, buttons and scraps of yarn to attach to the twiddlemuffs. I lost count of how many I made altogether, but I imagine it was over 50 .<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pVg_lyf5nTM/XJJNTdCgAVI/AAAAAAAACPw/i7DOYIdSLZgGYKGij_rYZCNtsBgZQ5kBwCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_20170523_175856.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pVg_lyf5nTM/XJJNTdCgAVI/AAAAAAAACPw/i7DOYIdSLZgGYKGij_rYZCNtsBgZQ5kBwCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_20170523_175856.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Each one is unique which means they are interesting to make. I plan to make more of these at some point.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lPsanuLUfoc/XJJNTrVtIyI/AAAAAAAACPw/S7OqRa7GoC8ZJuIxhGMLQHEcU4RddYCXQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_20180623_203330.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lPsanuLUfoc/XJJNTrVtIyI/AAAAAAAACPw/S7OqRa7GoC8ZJuIxhGMLQHEcU4RddYCXQCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_20180623_203330.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-abUzKciHzaU/XJJNUFP8U9I/AAAAAAAACP0/WQSA77z7jMYyfNgLZPsD_a1a4QAa_THnwCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_20180710_165715.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-abUzKciHzaU/XJJNUFP8U9I/AAAAAAAACP0/WQSA77z7jMYyfNgLZPsD_a1a4QAa_THnwCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_20180710_165715.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Lizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00900642723221525037noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24740181.post-62159223390677742492017-04-30T09:34:00.003+01:002017-04-30T09:34:55.150+01:00More tea cosies and a matJust a few more tea cosies! These are all patterns that I have used before and liked. Probably time to try some new designs now...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N2WQsF9fAic/WQWfmBC6DHI/AAAAAAAACNo/3C8cYcF9HpEKofTAOIaXp8ne-NBJEGvmwCEw/s1600/18095073_1851082408549986_2424749698494496768_n_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N2WQsF9fAic/WQWfmBC6DHI/AAAAAAAACNo/3C8cYcF9HpEKofTAOIaXp8ne-NBJEGvmwCEw/s400/18095073_1851082408549986_2424749698494496768_n_medium2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZGNkMEKxdq8/WQWfmHY0uPI/AAAAAAAACNs/hhNXQCobx3sW88fPv9Giqr7zA423rbPtACEw/s1600/18013199_1635638609797243_8902756696758157312_n_small2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZGNkMEKxdq8/WQWfmHY0uPI/AAAAAAAACNs/hhNXQCobx3sW88fPv9Giqr7zA423rbPtACEw/s400/18013199_1635638609797243_8902756696758157312_n_small2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Io4xhlVCj6A/WQWfmGFLvLI/AAAAAAAACNw/rSxnIi9i-totBLS9LMhPELTUv8vuwdifACEw/s1600/18096315_1326166890803230_6817101697144324096_n_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Io4xhlVCj6A/WQWfmGFLvLI/AAAAAAAACNw/rSxnIi9i-totBLS9LMhPELTUv8vuwdifACEw/s400/18096315_1326166890803230_6817101697144324096_n_medium2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZVSXgQJ2zvs/WQWfmu51W_I/AAAAAAAACN4/2PuD5KkUHkgwivY1zO_FvoOQ_oMttPcVACEw/s1600/18161896_674694646067107_4178137519759556608_n_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZVSXgQJ2zvs/WQWfmu51W_I/AAAAAAAACN4/2PuD5KkUHkgwivY1zO_FvoOQ_oMttPcVACEw/s400/18161896_674694646067107_4178137519759556608_n_medium2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Although I am still obsessed with tea cosies, I came across some yarn in my stash the other day that inspired me to have a go at making a bath mat. I found this t-shirt yarn in a charity shop a couple of years ago and snapped it up. Bargain! The pattern was free and found during a Ravelry search for bulky rugs. I am using an 8mm hook, largely because I couldn't find a bigger one. Probably would have gone for 10mm if I could have found it. However , the fabric is nice and firm and should result in a fairly durable rug. Not sure if I have enough yarn to complete the pattern and may have to improvise a bit towards the end.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vWNQYnkoEGk/WQWfmg9CVEI/AAAAAAAACN8/1_WPqg4nI_YDrpHlMWU1v25PqjMvEElyACEw/s1600/18160712_408902406160407_5603714298619625472_n_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vWNQYnkoEGk/WQWfmg9CVEI/AAAAAAAACN8/1_WPqg4nI_YDrpHlMWU1v25PqjMvEElyACEw/s400/18160712_408902406160407_5603714298619625472_n_medium2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Alfie seems to approve of it so far!Lizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00900642723221525037noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24740181.post-54140735372724625092017-04-27T07:30:00.002+01:002017-04-27T07:52:21.019+01:00More Tea CosiesJust thought I would post a few more tea cosies. They have been flying off the needles lately .<br />
I found this pattern for a crochet cabled tea cosy online after much searching. I haven't done crochet cables before and really wanted to have a go, It was quite interesting to do and gives a really lovely effect. The yarn was some old Patons dk that I found in a charity shop recently.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WlrV2vQ_SO0/WQGOtXKhauI/AAAAAAAACNc/xGqTSgJaY80xGgMcy7IEnaWRiLRgo12pgCEw/s1600/IMG_20170419_215452_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WlrV2vQ_SO0/WQGOtXKhauI/AAAAAAAACNc/xGqTSgJaY80xGgMcy7IEnaWRiLRgo12pgCEw/s400/IMG_20170419_215452_medium2.jpg" width="366" /></a></div>
Another new technique for me was smocked effect knitting. I enjoyed this one greatly and think it looks pretty good. It has a nice traditional feel to it. I used a ball of Rowan Creative Worsted that I bought in a sale years ago. The original plan was to knit a hat but I never got round to it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yNsGr79QmrA/WQGOtKUzZjI/AAAAAAAACNc/H3cPjywe3M4C5yoASOt9JPuCNFY74S_3QCEw/s1600/IMG_20170412_230948_080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yNsGr79QmrA/WQGOtKUzZjI/AAAAAAAACNc/H3cPjywe3M4C5yoASOt9JPuCNFY74S_3QCEw/s320/IMG_20170412_230948_080.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
This simple granny square tea cosy pattern is brilliant and looks really effective in a colour run yarn. I guess it would look great with contrasting colour rounds too but who enjoys sewing all the ends in. I have used an acrylic yarn for this design so far - Yarnfair from Wilkinsons. The colours are very nice and it is also a reasonable price. When I manage to find that odd ball of Noro Silk Garden lurking in my stash there could be a posh version of this design coming up.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s63XRQzWdoA/WQGOtREJD5I/AAAAAAAACNc/dgI_uBa9JeU92pQiyYgMsKwtFZZ8lgldwCEw/s1600/IMG_20170420_214003_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s63XRQzWdoA/WQGOtREJD5I/AAAAAAAACNc/dgI_uBa9JeU92pQiyYgMsKwtFZZ8lgldwCEw/s320/IMG_20170420_214003_medium2.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7qq0q6vMXu0/WQGOtcwzZDI/AAAAAAAACNc/AI4eOJXssa08LEw1unHitqgk8vSCuN9aACEw/s1600/IMG_20170422_170512_medium2.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7qq0q6vMXu0/WQGOtcwzZDI/AAAAAAAACNc/AI4eOJXssa08LEw1unHitqgk8vSCuN9aACEw/s320/IMG_20170422_170512_medium2.jpg" width="270" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Another favourite design of mine is the Buddha's Knot No Sew Teacosy - also a free pattern. It's really easy and that little i-cord knot on top just finishes it off nicely. When I found this amazing rainbow yarn in Hobbycraft I knew it had to become one of these. I am keen to get hold of some more of this. It makes for a very cheerful little cosy. Enough to brighten up the dullest of mornings!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_cEGeMxEEhQ/WQGOtEHljgI/AAAAAAAACNc/9uimNQsbIJkyNgLJ85KuuzLfx-7KQtBOgCEw/s1600/IMG_20170417_135047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_cEGeMxEEhQ/WQGOtEHljgI/AAAAAAAACNc/9uimNQsbIJkyNgLJ85KuuzLfx-7KQtBOgCEw/s320/IMG_20170417_135047.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I also made up this cosy in some of the Yarnfair striped yarn.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EfQEmtEkUZc/WQGOstUDerI/AAAAAAAACNc/lDrSub8Cs-UxpTFmcLURQPbwHlAKswswACEw/s1600/IMG_20170410_195024_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EfQEmtEkUZc/WQGOstUDerI/AAAAAAAACNc/lDrSub8Cs-UxpTFmcLURQPbwHlAKswswACEw/s320/IMG_20170410_195024_medium2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
This yarn is only dk so I held it double. Luckily the colour runs weren't hard to match up and it worked quite well.<br />
Lastly today, this granny square teacosy is fairly cute but I hated all the sewing up. I think I would also prefer it more random colours for a scrappy look.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xs7Z_-5ZNuc/WQGOsr2SqZI/AAAAAAAACNc/UOrRfspDNi8I7Vdqd_p1o0sm1tuLe8llgCEw/s1600/IMG_20170409_214748_458_small2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xs7Z_-5ZNuc/WQGOsr2SqZI/AAAAAAAACNc/UOrRfspDNi8I7Vdqd_p1o0sm1tuLe8llgCEw/s1600/IMG_20170409_214748_458_small2.jpg" /></a></div>
I am still considering options for today's teacosy. Maybe another knitted one...<br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Lizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00900642723221525037noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24740181.post-15076959305060983762017-04-26T20:10:00.001+01:002017-04-26T20:10:34.643+01:00Tea Cosy Crazy<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9555sjNsJ3A/WQDuT1IiDcI/AAAAAAAACMM/3uhAOhLF6nog6WUo2fZyJ5FKs6baQFE8ACLcB/s1600/IMG_20170420_214054_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9555sjNsJ3A/WQDuT1IiDcI/AAAAAAAACMM/3uhAOhLF6nog6WUo2fZyJ5FKs6baQFE8ACLcB/s320/IMG_20170420_214054_medium2.jpg" width="189" /></a></div>
It has been a long time since I posted on my poor neglected blog. I have , of course, still been knitting, crocheting and crafting at my usual rate. I have also been doing quite a lot of sewing lately and have finally grown to love my overlocker.<br />
Anyway, I have become just a bit obsessed with tea cosies over the last month and have been making at least one a day. I find these projects are just the right size to be achievable in one day and also to try out a variety of new stitches and techniques. It is not easy to find tea cosies in the shops and it is hard to beat a beautiful handmade one.<br />
My obsession started when I finally got around to making up this lovely sheep tea cosy kit that I bought from Woolly Chic a couple of years ago.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bbo0UzRMEe4/WQDuByQiz3I/AAAAAAAACMI/ZfcRGw_erdkTa2OvNvudBNX3zunSetYAQCLcB/s1600/IMG_20170319_094238.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bbo0UzRMEe4/WQDuByQiz3I/AAAAAAAACMI/ZfcRGw_erdkTa2OvNvudBNX3zunSetYAQCLcB/s400/IMG_20170319_094238.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
He is just adorable and keeps the teapot very warm. The loopy crochet was fun to do and I think he has real character. I am thinking to make another one using black yarn - or maybe a whole flock.<br />
After this successful project I started looking up patterns for more cosies and found plenty online and in old magazines. I also bought "The Big Book of Tea Cosies" from Amazon and feel inclined to knit every single pattern as they are all such interesting designs.<br />
This simple granny crochet design is fast becoming one of my favourites. It is so simple but looks very effective in any number of colours. also, it's a great pattern for using up scraps of yarn. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ta1RewM8O68/WQDujo0FedI/AAAAAAAACMQ/SNSgaoJXonguJttC9jmmjmGnCj0BJuAxwCLcB/s1600/18011346_199897520523294_3433005065210691584_n_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ta1RewM8O68/WQDujo0FedI/AAAAAAAACMQ/SNSgaoJXonguJttC9jmmjmGnCj0BJuAxwCLcB/s320/18011346_199897520523294_3433005065210691584_n_medium2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
This, one is a basic knitted rib cosy. The fun part is topping it with a whole load of knitted flowers and leaves. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CeWKhWWglkk/WQDuj3V6OwI/AAAAAAAACMY/Yhs2XE1Imb4EBld-E2VVLRqTXMkOJ_k7ACLcB/s1600/18012048_1178938008899551_6800379216207544320_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CeWKhWWglkk/WQDuj3V6OwI/AAAAAAAACMY/Yhs2XE1Imb4EBld-E2VVLRqTXMkOJ_k7ACLcB/s320/18012048_1178938008899551_6800379216207544320_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The cherries add a nice to touch to this seeded rib cosy. I gave this one to a friend for her birthday recently. Planning to make some more like this.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hWzALb9G24g/WQDuj_t_ZnI/AAAAAAAACMU/XexDTVNoQO4MVJACcxAwq5FKX3c50C37QCLcB/s1600/IMG_20170328_121556_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hWzALb9G24g/WQDuj_t_ZnI/AAAAAAAACMU/XexDTVNoQO4MVJACcxAwq5FKX3c50C37QCLcB/s320/IMG_20170328_121556_medium2.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
The traditional ruched cosy is really good for keeping the pot warm as it makes for a very thick fabric. Never hurts to stick a pompom on top of a tea cosy!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vYMS0bOkikM/WQDukDXAYRI/AAAAAAAACMc/FX3FcPJwVL04blEiSM3RXkO9YpLo2nmfACLcB/s1600/IMG_20170329_180446_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vYMS0bOkikM/WQDukDXAYRI/AAAAAAAACMc/FX3FcPJwVL04blEiSM3RXkO9YpLo2nmfACLcB/s320/IMG_20170329_180446_medium2.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
More flowers on top...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JGOpjD3kgLw/WQDukNXwVII/AAAAAAAACMg/eT85Air7t6gBK6dmolG-d22WcOpS-edFQCLcB/s1600/IMG_20170331_193949_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JGOpjD3kgLw/WQDukNXwVII/AAAAAAAACMg/eT85Air7t6gBK6dmolG-d22WcOpS-edFQCLcB/s320/IMG_20170331_193949_medium2.jpg" width="283" /></a></div>
This little number has cables and is gathered in at the top with an i-cord drawstring trimmed with pompoms.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZFy9Ko_pkE/WQDukqcNwZI/AAAAAAAACMk/L8CKpM7Uq_MkOKZZAZOddKWnPZYM6ck2gCLcB/s1600/IMG_20170401_225726.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZFy9Ko_pkE/WQDukqcNwZI/AAAAAAAACMk/L8CKpM7Uq_MkOKZZAZOddKWnPZYM6ck2gCLcB/s320/IMG_20170401_225726.jpg" width="309" /></a></div>
Cosy tweedy cables...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L5RQuwv4tIo/WQDuk5E31AI/AAAAAAAACMo/xnwYF9eNk5kS_ihVG8dy_5q_15KRHa9iQCLcB/s1600/IMG_20170407_140307_789_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L5RQuwv4tIo/WQDuk5E31AI/AAAAAAAACMo/xnwYF9eNk5kS_ihVG8dy_5q_15KRHa9iQCLcB/s320/IMG_20170407_140307_789_medium2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
This one is a bit of a hoot!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oDjCn5Dc-m8/WQDuk8bSQeI/AAAAAAAACMs/CleNaQqSZTIayB0vFQoh14fpg4n8Hbj8QCLcB/s1600/IMG_20170409_125634_901_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oDjCn5Dc-m8/WQDuk8bSQeI/AAAAAAAACMs/CleNaQqSZTIayB0vFQoh14fpg4n8Hbj8QCLcB/s320/IMG_20170409_125634_901_medium2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
This is just a selection of the tea cosies that I have made so far. I think there are going to be plenty more and will try to post more regularly.Lizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00900642723221525037noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24740181.post-88073987616748839782016-03-30T11:02:00.004+01:002016-03-30T11:02:51.345+01:00More Mitts!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XXj3_3lqCmE/VvugIFUTr3I/AAAAAAAACLQ/7tLEWlDbq0ku3K5vchDbIGif-VVvm_xFA/s1600/PTDC1190.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XXj3_3lqCmE/VvugIFUTr3I/AAAAAAAACLQ/7tLEWlDbq0ku3K5vchDbIGif-VVvm_xFA/s400/PTDC1190.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I have made about six pairs of these flower mitts so far and am still loving them. They are the perfect way to use up a single ball of dk - of which I have many! The embroidery is a lot of fun and makes each pair unique. I found some tapestry yarn in a variety of colours in the local charity shop and find it very useful for adding colour. Even the smallest piece of yarn can make a few french knots. Three pairs of mitts are waiting to be embroidered, so more of those in my next post.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SuF7epy41Lg/VvugIaCR1bI/AAAAAAAACLU/NxZL--mHUvkuTVo9eUsYktKLyCvRITqZA/s1600/PTDC1196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SuF7epy41Lg/VvugIaCR1bI/AAAAAAAACLU/NxZL--mHUvkuTVo9eUsYktKLyCvRITqZA/s400/PTDC1196.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I crocheted the Lollo Rosso shawl a while back after seeing the pattern on Ravelry and admiring the many gorgeous examples pictured there. It seemed quite small when I was working on it so I purchased an extra ball of yarn and did an extra repeat of the increases. As I was blocking the shawl I realised that this had probably been unnecessary - it opened out a lot! I used beads on the final row as recommended in the pattern but have to admit that it hardly seems worth they effort. They are barely noticeable and get completely lost in the ruffles. They are also so small that they don't really add any weight to the bottom of the shawl. Apart from these few points, it is a lovely shawl and I may well make another smaller version some time.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FWCnNw6AdBs/VvugH_wb8VI/AAAAAAAACLY/aVnWGSHbHOwZp1kam3dOzlCWP4iytVqaA/s1600/PTDC1165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FWCnNw6AdBs/VvugH_wb8VI/AAAAAAAACLY/aVnWGSHbHOwZp1kam3dOzlCWP4iytVqaA/s400/PTDC1165.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q8ARVWPvzzY/VvugHxMp-eI/AAAAAAAACLY/RfR1Sr1LMlQrhBRiz25lwdt9SNxUZJvNw/s1600/PTDC1164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q8ARVWPvzzY/VvugHxMp-eI/AAAAAAAACLY/RfR1Sr1LMlQrhBRiz25lwdt9SNxUZJvNw/s400/PTDC1164.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
There are lots of projects on the go at the moment. Mostly smaller projects - accessories and such. I am usually like to have a big jumper or something to work on as well but can't quite decide what to make next. I need to look through my vast collection of patterns and yarn for some inspiration.Lizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00900642723221525037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24740181.post-12905282910939926722016-03-22T13:47:00.004+00:002016-03-22T13:49:25.022+00:00Pretty Mittens<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u5g-uI0rPsI/VvFGLh8XxgI/AAAAAAAACK0/QrZRxa5pJWA7mk1BQKPbK_qLP0Jsp13bg/s1600/PTDC1178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u5g-uI0rPsI/VvFGLh8XxgI/AAAAAAAACK0/QrZRxa5pJWA7mk1BQKPbK_qLP0Jsp13bg/s400/PTDC1178.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I whipped up these lovely little mittens last night, inspired by a pair that I saw on Ravelry called the Mayrhofen Fingerless Mitts . I knitted the mittens flat and then sewed them up. I prefer knitting flat but have to say that knitting in the round does give a better finish - and I do hate sewing up! I am already half way through another pair (in the round) and looking forward to embellishing them. I haven't really embroidered on knitwear before and found it both fun and effective. My technique could probably be improved upon but even the simplest of flowers makes an attractive addition to these cute fingerless mittens. The wool is some old Wendy Merino dk which was included in a huge bag of yarn that I was lucky enough to be given by a friend doing some house clearing. There is plenty more - hurrah!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yLqeOaYJLY8/VvFGLUt3_DI/AAAAAAAACK0/_TAoqEfBVhI1WSBQ3o2BhPLFJc3vDDsXA/s1600/PTDC1175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yLqeOaYJLY8/VvFGLUt3_DI/AAAAAAAACK0/_TAoqEfBVhI1WSBQ3o2BhPLFJc3vDDsXA/s400/PTDC1175.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Another recent favourite is this amazing blue tit that I bought in kit form at the Spring Knit and Stitch Show at Olympia a few weeks ago. I couldn't wait to knit it up and managed to complete the project in 2 evenings. One for knitting and one for stuffing and assembly. It was a really fun knit and I just love the finished bird. There were also kits available for a robin and I plan to get my hands on this at some point. We had a little photo shoot in the back garden and big bird looked right at home in the tree.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LDhUirGSRew/VvFGUhoyFaI/AAAAAAAACK4/7S4PWXof60APo4N3zodop0RTXv_I9nL8Q/s1600/PTDC1156.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LDhUirGSRew/VvFGUhoyFaI/AAAAAAAACK4/7S4PWXof60APo4N3zodop0RTXv_I9nL8Q/s400/PTDC1156.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y9ZL5Ve7ALg/VvFGURbj6xI/AAAAAAAACK4/Eo6qSB9PFm4V_Ng7CZqr2zbWIn4EOCZNA/s1600/PTDC1158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y9ZL5Ve7ALg/VvFGURbj6xI/AAAAAAAACK4/Eo6qSB9PFm4V_Ng7CZqr2zbWIn4EOCZNA/s400/PTDC1158.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
A friend recently asked me if I would knit an aran jumper for her dad, who was missing a worn out old favourite that he had been wearing for years. I had forgotten how much I enjoy this type of textured knitting. The jumper was finished and with it's new owner in 2 weeks. The good news is that he absolutely loved it and wears it a lot.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zIEIj2XoNpM/VvFGjeLOX9I/AAAAAAAACK4/Ofg2x-WMpYku8nYf3aa_jO7-lauiOUqGw/s1600/PTDC1082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zIEIj2XoNpM/VvFGjeLOX9I/AAAAAAAACK4/Ofg2x-WMpYku8nYf3aa_jO7-lauiOUqGw/s400/PTDC1082.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
I am quite keen make an aran jumper for myself. I have the yarn. I have the pattern. Maybe my next large project?<br />
I already mentioned that I hate sewing up my projects. It is the knitting that I enjoy and I can lose interest once taht part of a project is finished. The knitting for this lovely fluffy jumper was finished within a week but it then sat in the basket waiting to get sewn up for a couple of months. Finally got around to it and now have a lovely soft , warm jumper. The pattern was a charity shop find which featured a yarn very similar in appearance to the Drops Melody which I was wanting to use. The yarn was an absolute bargain, as always with Drops, and has knitted up beautifully.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GptoHr5v3U0/VvFGUoQMp7I/AAAAAAAACK4/wcEZJrtY5rcp6niPs1DfbiMKHyuYCiXIw/s1600/PTDC1160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GptoHr5v3U0/VvFGUoQMp7I/AAAAAAAACK4/wcEZJrtY5rcp6niPs1DfbiMKHyuYCiXIw/s400/PTDC1160.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
On a final note, I made this entrelac beanie to try out a pattern that someone gave my husband in the pub. He said that a guy who knits hats was slightly baffled by the instructions and wondered if I could take a look. I guess entrelac seems that way at first but is actually very easy once you get into it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hiUz9SW8Epk/VvFGLiBANsI/AAAAAAAACK0/ljmt1zLRKsYRSYMpfufS5nXUs2X3TmrWg/s1600/PTDC1169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hiUz9SW8Epk/VvFGLiBANsI/AAAAAAAACK0/ljmt1zLRKsYRSYMpfufS5nXUs2X3TmrWg/s320/PTDC1169.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Lizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00900642723221525037noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24740181.post-70388805852629789962016-01-31T21:35:00.003+00:002016-01-31T21:38:24.818+00:00Back to Blogging<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g3qG87NHdw8/Vq5y3nAQbLI/AAAAAAAACJ8/hwk4_ZzwCqs/s1600/PTDC0978.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hCO1ODtZ2rI/Vq5yRdrnzcI/AAAAAAAACIw/67kl7A76qkg/s1600/PTDC1034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hCO1ODtZ2rI/Vq5yRdrnzcI/AAAAAAAACIw/67kl7A76qkg/s400/PTDC1034.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
I was thinking about my blog earlier today and realised it has been an age since I last posted. I miss it - don't know why I have left it so long. Certainly not for lack of items to blog about. Since my last post I have made some great sweaters - not least of which is this beauty. It was a free pattern that I spotted on the fantastic Ravelry. Here is the pattern link for the <a href="http://www.lanagrossa.com/service/modell-des-monats/modell-des-monats-2007-08.html" target="_blank">cream jumper</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oY0nvXDDZXs/Vq5yRTrn3iI/AAAAAAAACI0/0GhVjU4vP5w/s1600/PTDC1035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oY0nvXDDZXs/Vq5yRTrn3iI/AAAAAAAACI0/0GhVjU4vP5w/s320/PTDC1035.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I used some lovely Sirdar Babouska which I had picked up at a fantastic bargain price from Kemps Wools. I wasn't sure if I would like this yarn and really bought it because it was a stupid 29p a ball at one point. This is not always a good reason to buy yarn but on this occasion it proved to be an excellent purchase. It is over 50% wool and extremely light , fluffy and warm with very good yardage. Babouska was a perfect choice for the pattern. The pattern was really easy with minimal shaping and a combination of knitting and crochet. Very pleasing result.<br />
<br />
For a while, I became completely obsessed with mittens. They are an ideal way to try out new techniques and are small enough to complete fairly quickly. I found that a few pairs of these mittens resulted in a huge improvement in my stranded colour work. There are loads of free patterns for mittens that can be downloaded as well as some amazing patterns for sale on Ravelry.<br />
This pair had a Christmas carol knitted around them, which was so much fun.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-35KGT_RzioA/Vq5yksngYyI/AAAAAAAACJs/aunG4RP2hdg/s1600/PTDC0945.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-35KGT_RzioA/Vq5yksngYyI/AAAAAAAACJs/aunG4RP2hdg/s400/PTDC0945.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XZ5guucKQJQ/Vq5ykD0Wj4I/AAAAAAAACJk/YyAr15fDWcY/s1600/PTDC0909.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XZ5guucKQJQ/Vq5ykD0Wj4I/AAAAAAAACJk/YyAr15fDWcY/s320/PTDC0909.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Glg3ljzJDAY/Vq5yjyBr-kI/AAAAAAAACJc/MQTms7dxXUc/s1600/PTDC0908.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Glg3ljzJDAY/Vq5yjyBr-kI/AAAAAAAACJc/MQTms7dxXUc/s320/PTDC0908.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I really enjoyed making these little gems and will probably knit a few more pairs throughout the year just for the fun of it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X0t0HiczWwk/Vq5ykVazZkI/AAAAAAAACJo/VBr0tU4eTD8/s1600/PTDC0936.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X0t0HiczWwk/Vq5ykVazZkI/AAAAAAAACJo/VBr0tU4eTD8/s320/PTDC0936.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xR9nHVerGfA/Vq5x2wmkSbI/AAAAAAAACIc/APJs3QML-zU/s1600/PTDC0939.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xR9nHVerGfA/Vq5x2wmkSbI/AAAAAAAACIc/APJs3QML-zU/s320/PTDC0939.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KMv6f8E7WPs/Vq5x_Pt8_ZI/AAAAAAAACIk/UAHAhuGd9GY/s1600/PTDC0949.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KMv6f8E7WPs/Vq5x_Pt8_ZI/AAAAAAAACIk/UAHAhuGd9GY/s320/PTDC0949.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9_ptPVCXNDc/Vq5yJyNdY0I/AAAAAAAACIs/IqKxWpEUHCw/s1600/PTDC0972.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
I also made the first pair of socks in a very long time.<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9_ptPVCXNDc/Vq5yJyNdY0I/AAAAAAAACIs/IqKxWpEUHCw/s1600/PTDC0972.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9_ptPVCXNDc/Vq5yJyNdY0I/AAAAAAAACIs/IqKxWpEUHCw/s400/PTDC0972.JPG" width="400" /></a> <br />
I wanted a chunky pair to wear with my Winter boots and have worn these a lot. Sirdar Crofter may not be the most hardwearing of yarns for a pair of socks but they are holding up well.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pkEJX7atR_w/Vq5y3ugfeyI/AAAAAAAACKA/M8cfX-K2HZ4/s1600/PTDC0990.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pkEJX7atR_w/Vq5y3ugfeyI/AAAAAAAACKA/M8cfX-K2HZ4/s400/PTDC0990.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
As usual when the weather gets colder, I feel the need to knit a selection of new hats. The Baable Hat is a free pattern, again from Ravelry, that knits up into the cutest of hats. I used some Drops Alaska from stash for this one. Love this hat so much! I also made another Westie Hat. I seem to have lost the red and white one that I knitted last year and was wanting to mkae another. This time I used some Katia Alpaca which is supersoft and a pleasure to knit with and wear.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g3qG87NHdw8/Vq5y3nAQbLI/AAAAAAAACJ8/hwk4_ZzwCqs/s1600/PTDC0978.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g3qG87NHdw8/Vq5y3nAQbLI/AAAAAAAACJ8/hwk4_ZzwCqs/s320/PTDC0978.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
Alpaca is one of my favourite fibres and this lovely hat from Toft Alpaca was purchased as a kit at Knit and Stitch Show last year. I really like it .<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VEpIt5pK6eY/Vq5y3gxbkTI/AAAAAAAACKE/Nz6PgbO_pVM/s1600/PTDC0965.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VEpIt5pK6eY/Vq5y3gxbkTI/AAAAAAAACKE/Nz6PgbO_pVM/s400/PTDC0965.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Last year I wanted to learn something new and decided it was time to tackle entrelac. I have now knitted about half of this totally gorgeous wrap in Noro Silk Garden Lite. The pattern is the Lady Eleanor Wrap from Scarf Style, which has been on my to do list for ages. This project has been "resting" for a while but I am psyching myself up to finish it sometime soon. Entrelac is a lot less complicated than I had expected.<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wjmqzi28gcI/Vq5yj7rDxSI/AAAAAAAACJg/8aT_FRXqQzU/s1600/PTDC0891.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wjmqzi28gcI/Vq5yj7rDxSI/AAAAAAAACJg/8aT_FRXqQzU/s640/PTDC0891.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
There have been so many projects over the last year that I can't possibly blog about all of them now. I will give a mention to Tiny Ted though as he is a particular favourite of mine.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G57ghYUSKMg/Vq5yjoc-6QI/AAAAAAAACJQ/hyawWKCVkkU/s1600/PTDC0899.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G57ghYUSKMg/Vq5yjoc-6QI/AAAAAAAACJQ/hyawWKCVkkU/s320/PTDC0899.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
I made him one evening out of a small scrap of leftover sock yarn and plan to knit him some friends at some point.<br />
Currently on my needles are an aran jumper, a Lollo Rosso crochet shawl and a simple knitted fluffy cowl. More of these soon... <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wjmqzi28gcI/Vq5yj7rDxSI/AAAAAAAACJg/8aT_FRXqQzU/s1600/PTDC0891.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g3qG87NHdw8/Vq5y3nAQbLI/AAAAAAAACJ8/hwk4_ZzwCqs/s1600/PTDC0978.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>Lizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00900642723221525037noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24740181.post-51294943580469696392015-04-04T10:47:00.001+01:002015-04-04T10:47:14.952+01:00Bags , hats and a bunny<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PETvKHPu9M4/VR-sycW8Z0I/AAAAAAAACHI/DN86qIvEEYw/s1600/PTDC0726.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PETvKHPu9M4/VR-sycW8Z0I/AAAAAAAACHI/DN86qIvEEYw/s1600/PTDC0726.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
I recently finished this gorgeous granny bag and felt compelled to blog about it as I was so thrilled with the crochet gorgeousness. It was a kit that I purchased from The Mercerie quite a while ago and then hadn't got around to making up. After seeing some beautiful crochet bags on Ravelry I remembered that I had this lovely item just waiting to be assembled. So, I had a rummage in my not inconsiderable stash and managed to find the kit. A week later I am the proud owner of the biggest and best granny bag ever! It consists of 36 granny squares joined up into a large square and gathered around the edges - so easy. I can see many more of these bags in my future.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EISBJUGVMVc/VR-svBSW4JI/AAAAAAAACGg/fIJ-TBsGdmY/s1600/PTDC0497.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EISBJUGVMVc/VR-svBSW4JI/AAAAAAAACGg/fIJ-TBsGdmY/s1600/PTDC0497.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a><br />
Hats have also featured largely in my work over the last few months. It started with Woolly Wormhead's "Camden Cap" which I knitted up in some Rowan Summer Tweed. I do like the pattern and will probably make it up again in a different yarn - Rowan Denim would be nice. It reminded me of my all time favourite hat the Swirls Cap and once I had thought of that I had to make one. After making one I had to make several more - they really are so enjoyable to crochet and also to wear.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sF54wP94EiM/VR-swOhIaRI/AAAAAAAACGk/LCrCqpIWKQk/s1600/PTDC0643.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sF54wP94EiM/VR-swOhIaRI/AAAAAAAACGk/LCrCqpIWKQk/s1600/PTDC0643.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ODyauup2FtY/VR-swrYj2zI/AAAAAAAACGs/_1SB645khEA/s1600/PTDC0696.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ODyauup2FtY/VR-swrYj2zI/AAAAAAAACGs/_1SB645khEA/s1600/PTDC0696.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YOhj61tzm5I/VR-sxBBSWfI/AAAAAAAACHU/xxR7Puf7MiQ/s1600/PTDC0702.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YOhj61tzm5I/VR-sxBBSWfI/AAAAAAAACHU/xxR7Puf7MiQ/s1600/PTDC0702.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
I have also been reviving my interest in sewing recently and have several dressmaking projects planned. I decided to start off with something small and whipped up this cute stuffed bunny in an afternoon. So pleased with the little cutie! I used an old linen skirt that I no longer wanted for the body and a spare fat quarter for the dress. The pattern was from a sewing magazine and is called "Harriet Hare". An appropriate project for Easter I think.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iWFiBRacwy4/VR-sxZOKg2I/AAAAAAAACHA/PkRGAbWJrcM/s1600/PTDC0710.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iWFiBRacwy4/VR-sxZOKg2I/AAAAAAAACHA/PkRGAbWJrcM/s1600/PTDC0710.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PzKwgyFRQmg/VR-sxl2oceI/AAAAAAAACG4/AGzTSA1H_78/s1600/PTDC0715.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PzKwgyFRQmg/VR-sxl2oceI/AAAAAAAACG4/AGzTSA1H_78/s1600/PTDC0715.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I made a couple of pairs of slippers for presents last month. I like slippers for gifts - they are quick to make and fun to embellish to suit the recipient. The brown flowery ones were for my sister and the purple ones for Janet from Knit Club.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FSftI_XE3X4/VR-svS7AX_I/AAAAAAAACGY/hzsMEKzIA4A/s1600/PTDC0511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FSftI_XE3X4/VR-svS7AX_I/AAAAAAAACGY/hzsMEKzIA4A/s1600/PTDC0511.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jk61fKdm3XM/VR-swaC5cwI/AAAAAAAACGo/WZhhHoyC1qY/s1600/PTDC0693.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jk61fKdm3XM/VR-swaC5cwI/AAAAAAAACGo/WZhhHoyC1qY/s1600/PTDC0693.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I have been working on a illusion knit picture of a Yorkshire Terrier for a few weeks now. It is easy but you do need to concentrate on the chart and so it comes out now and then when i am not too tired. It is about 3/4 done now and I am undecided what to make from the finished piece. Maybe a cushion? Perhaps a bag?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bpPva80LNLw/VR-svqI7uuI/AAAAAAAACGc/M6HONLET9RU/s1600/PTDC0637.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bpPva80LNLw/VR-svqI7uuI/AAAAAAAACGc/M6HONLET9RU/s1600/PTDC0637.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Lastly, in an attempt to make a dent in my stash I am crocheting a quick wrap with some super colourful Mary Maxim Prism which I bought at Ally Pally a couple of years ago. For 100% acrylic this yarn is amazing. It almost feels like wool and the colours are just amazing. I haven't seen this yarn on sale anywhere else but would love to get hold of some more.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8lZLqTYd6uA/VR-szG4eCJI/AAAAAAAACHQ/p0WISflS1AM/s1600/PTDC0728.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8lZLqTYd6uA/VR-szG4eCJI/AAAAAAAACHQ/p0WISflS1AM/s1600/PTDC0728.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EISBJUGVMVc/VR-svBSW4JI/AAAAAAAACGg/fIJ-TBsGdmY/s1600/PTDC0497.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EISBJUGVMVc/VR-svBSW4JI/AAAAAAAACGg/fIJ-TBsGdmY/s1600/PTDC0497.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<br />Lizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00900642723221525037noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24740181.post-67045238384093802082014-09-04T10:54:00.004+01:002014-09-04T10:54:57.360+01:00Little Pumpkin and Yoda Baby HatI have made this type of hat quite a few times before - it is probably my favourite design for a young baby. The Little Pumpkin Hat just looks adorable on any baby.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ErEq5CDDHes/VAgzWXqDOHI/AAAAAAAACFc/Kxwud5DE97c/s1600/PTDC0008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ErEq5CDDHes/VAgzWXqDOHI/AAAAAAAACFc/Kxwud5DE97c/s1600/PTDC0008.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
This one was made from some worsted weight alpaca from my stash and scraps of wool for the leaf and stalk. I knitted the size 3-6 months but apparently it fits the newborn baby fine. It should last for a few months as you can unroll the brim a bit to make it larger. The pattern I used was <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/pumpkin-hats" target="_blank">Pumpkin Hats</a> by Sarah Hood which is a free download from Ravelry. Highly recommended!<br />
Also for my colleagues new baby boy...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DPUn4WukZls/VAgzSZKKKWI/AAAAAAAACFU/SD2S6DQW2mc/s1600/PTDC0005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DPUn4WukZls/VAgzSZKKKWI/AAAAAAAACFU/SD2S6DQW2mc/s1600/PTDC0005.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
... the equally adorable <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/yoda-or-bat-hat-knitting-pattern" target="_blank">Yoda Hat</a> which is also available through Ravelry. I purchased a couple of skeins of Berroco Abode at Loop last year and this was the perfect project for it. The parents are big fans of Star Wars and were well pleased with this supercute topper.<br />
Expect another update soon as there are a lot more finished and half finished projects waiting to be photographed and featured on this blog. It has been a very productive summer!Lizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00900642723221525037noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24740181.post-34065633087709872632014-08-06T10:09:00.003+01:002014-08-06T10:09:54.635+01:00Crazy for Crochet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TOIX1sQVdOU/U-Hk_VJptXI/AAAAAAAACDw/V0ZttzTMQcA/s1600/PTDC0006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
I have been really keen on crochet lately and have started , but not necessarily finished, quite a few projects. I haven't updated the blog for a while due to camera problems - now sorted! So here are a few of my latest creations...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KHdCO4Tz3J8/U-HlAA4LhII/AAAAAAAACEM/RY2ig78PZGQ/s1600/PTDC0016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KHdCO4Tz3J8/U-HlAA4LhII/AAAAAAAACEM/RY2ig78PZGQ/s1600/PTDC0016.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_eDTouttIBE/U-Hk_STFkxI/AAAAAAAACD0/PnlwIipWTFo/s1600/PTDC0002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_eDTouttIBE/U-Hk_STFkxI/AAAAAAAACD0/PnlwIipWTFo/s1600/PTDC0002.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I found this design when searching Japanese crochet sites for free patterns and general inspiration. It is just a simple mesh shawl with a pretty border which includes dangling leaves and little balls. A lot of the Japanese shawl and scarf designs feature really interesting borders and I am a big fan of these designs. I love the way they can make the simplest piece of fabric into a spectacular masterpiece. I wouldn't call this one a masterpiece but it was enjoyable and quick to crochet. I used most of a skein of Madeleine Tosh Merino Light that I purchased at Loop last year. It is a beautiful soft yarn and the colours are slightly tonal, which I absolutely love.<br />
Drops have had a truly amazing sale this Summer with 35% off their cotton yarns, so obviously I had to take advantage of that. I love Drops! The yarns are amazing quality, come in a huge range of gorgeous colours and are incredibly reasonably priced. Their massive collection of free patterns is pretty good too. I found this cute little bag pattern in Issue 55 of Inside Crochet - it is the Boogie Bag by Jane Crow.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TOIX1sQVdOU/U-Hk_VJptXI/AAAAAAAACDw/V0ZttzTMQcA/s1600/PTDC0006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TOIX1sQVdOU/U-Hk_VJptXI/AAAAAAAACDw/V0ZttzTMQcA/s1600/PTDC0006.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
In the magazine it was hooked from Rowan Cotton Glace which can cost around £5 for a ball but I made it from Drops Cotton Light which cost me 90p a ball. I have enough yarn left over from this project to make another bag, so that is a real bargain. <br />
The piece of crochet with which I am most pleased is the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/arianna---two-way-floral-lace-cardigan">Arianna</a> cardigan wrap. It is a brilliant pattern by Vicky Chan - available, of course, through Ravelry. The genius of this design is in it's very simple shape that when worn drapes beautifully and looks far more complicated than it is. The garment is incredibly versatile and can be worn either way up for different looks.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gopQ8loegcw/U-HlAdScJPI/AAAAAAAACEI/m2SMZZ4cjI8/s1600/PTDC0021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gopQ8loegcw/U-HlAdScJPI/AAAAAAAACEI/m2SMZZ4cjI8/s1600/PTDC0021.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MYn0eas3Zi0/U-HlBtEmRqI/AAAAAAAACEQ/EsZZqC8Ejg4/s1600/PTDC0024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MYn0eas3Zi0/U-HlBtEmRqI/AAAAAAAACEQ/EsZZqC8Ejg4/s1600/PTDC0024.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
I used a cone of cotton/acrylic 4 ply from Yeoman Yarns for this version. It is a very economical but good quality yarn which I greatly recommend. The 2000m cone easily completed the garment with some to spare and had the added advantage of no joins or ends to sew in. I like the finished item so very much that I have started another in gorgeous green Araucania sock yarn (another sale purchase) and can't wait to see how it turns out. The wool should be a little lighter than the cotton.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A7Ww1AUynjU/U-HlJ-7feSI/AAAAAAAACEo/uLPxb60Brm8/s1600/PTDC0010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A7Ww1AUynjU/U-HlJ-7feSI/AAAAAAAACEo/uLPxb60Brm8/s1600/PTDC0010.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I have been doing a little knitting too. Here is the proof...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xtIUkqfJSvg/U-Hk_Rk3jxI/AAAAAAAACDs/MLmxlb1xyWA/s1600/PTDC0013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xtIUkqfJSvg/U-Hk_Rk3jxI/AAAAAAAACDs/MLmxlb1xyWA/s1600/PTDC0013.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Sirdar Click Chunky at 49p a ball is hard to resist - so I didn't. Kemps Wools often come up with incredible bargains on discontinued yarns and colourways and it is well worth checking out their discount section on a regular basis. The pattern was a Sirdar design from a recent edition of Knitting magazine. It knitted up in a few days and is very warm and wearable.<br />
Acrylic yarn seems to be much softer and better quality these days and I am almost won over by it. The colours of this Stylecraft Merry-go-Round were enough to tempt me. This simple , fun, rainbow shawl is incredibly quick to crochet and the pattern is easy to memorise. I have worked up most of this on recent train journeys and at concerts where I don't want to concentrate on a complicated pattern. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DkfpOolcMNY/U-HlJx3KDSI/AAAAAAAACEk/oS4XuGCoYeY/s1600/PTDC0026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DkfpOolcMNY/U-HlJx3KDSI/AAAAAAAACEk/oS4XuGCoYeY/s1600/PTDC0026.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Lastly, a quick fun project that I made from Poundland acrylic dk doubled up to make chunky weight. I used the Mama Capybara pattern from "Huge and Huggable Mochimochi" by Anna Hrachovec. It is a wonderful book packed with fun toy and accessory designs which easy to knit and definitely live up to the promise of being huggable. I made this giant guinea pig (ok, so he is really a capybara) for a friend at work who fosters a lot of the little guys for an animal welfare organisation as it tries to find permanent homes for them. Hope she has room for this little one!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w08hVYbJQdI/U-HtoSgYcGI/AAAAAAAACE8/bwvhJF60VEo/s1600/Photo0108-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w08hVYbJQdI/U-HtoSgYcGI/AAAAAAAACE8/bwvhJF60VEo/s1600/Photo0108-1.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />Lizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00900642723221525037noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24740181.post-2363702872475219842014-05-12T19:53:00.001+01:002014-05-12T20:48:33.844+01:00The Bloomsbury Top and other projects<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cFh4CVnqi7Q/U3EYWQPLg_I/AAAAAAAACAg/htsY1oYmr0w/s1600/DSC05199.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cFh4CVnqi7Q/U3EYWQPLg_I/AAAAAAAACAg/htsY1oYmr0w/s1600/DSC05199.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
I have been having another crochet phase lately and am particularly proud of this creation. The Bloomsbury Top from Interweave Crochet has been on my list of things to make ever since I saw it last year. I finally decided to give it a go after reading on Ravelry that it looks a lot more complicated than it actually is. I would entirely agree with that assessment of the pattern now that I have made it. It only took about 5 days to crochet the top and I really enjoyed it. The trickiest part was joining the motifs together at the correct points. I have used Noro Silk Garden Sock yarn from my stash which I purchased in a sale a while ago. It would have been far too expensive at full price but has actually turned out to be quite a bargain. The problem with sales is usually the choice of colours is limited to the ones that no-one else wants. On this occasion I really like the colours that were available.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sMTTZEAirUE/U3EYB8ocQbI/AAAAAAAAB_g/Y2xt8hahyOU/s1600/DSC05172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sMTTZEAirUE/U3EYB8ocQbI/AAAAAAAAB_g/Y2xt8hahyOU/s1600/DSC05172.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bx7UeEWYkOk/U3EYUKfKGEI/AAAAAAAAB_8/H2Qiu59ZXQ0/s1600/DSC05183.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bx7UeEWYkOk/U3EYUKfKGEI/AAAAAAAAB_8/H2Qiu59ZXQ0/s1600/DSC05183.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WgrIZGv6-ss/U3EYUiXKfUI/AAAAAAAACAE/u54dxhbscvI/s1600/DSC05184.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WgrIZGv6-ss/U3EYUiXKfUI/AAAAAAAACAE/u54dxhbscvI/s1600/DSC05184.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0K6-95Kkhhc/U3EYWhijGSI/AAAAAAAACAc/Rhw9HzBeybA/s1600/DSC05200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0K6-95Kkhhc/U3EYWhijGSI/AAAAAAAACAc/Rhw9HzBeybA/s1600/DSC05200.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Another recent crochet success...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VlqaIne5UXc/U3EX_0GhZpI/AAAAAAAAB_I/cAZejfXYe8U/s1600/DSC05159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VlqaIne5UXc/U3EX_0GhZpI/AAAAAAAAB_I/cAZejfXYe8U/s1600/DSC05159.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fDdNCZ18AGA/U3EYAK6HFEI/AAAAAAAAB_M/AneqsS5QRTU/s1600/DSC05161.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fDdNCZ18AGA/U3EYAK6HFEI/AAAAAAAAB_M/AneqsS5QRTU/s1600/DSC05161.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a><br />
This one is from Yumiko Alexander's lovely book "Rustic Crochet". I used the 100% linen that I got from Ice Yarns. It was a quick and easy project and overall I am quite pleased with the result. I do love linen but am wondering whether this stuff is perhaps a bit more suited to accessories rather than garments. It has a bit of a string effect and is not very soft. This thought inspired the next project. A cute bag embellished with flowers.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S_j4qRv9YKk/U3EYUlrtA5I/AAAAAAAAB_4/6po3KGxyARU/s1600/DSC05187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S_j4qRv9YKk/U3EYUlrtA5I/AAAAAAAAB_4/6po3KGxyARU/s1600/DSC05187.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZrFsmg3wN3A/U3EYVey-AMI/AAAAAAAACAI/htyjii8-9cg/s1600/DSC05189.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZrFsmg3wN3A/U3EYVey-AMI/AAAAAAAACAI/htyjii8-9cg/s1600/DSC05189.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
I like this a lot - it took very little time to make and looks pretty good. I plan to make another of these in a cotton yarn with more colourful flowers.<br />
Still on the crochet theme, I made this blanket from cheap acrylic yarn inspired by a pattern I saw in a magazine. This was a project that I could make with my eyes closed and so ideal for knitting club and telly watching. I really love the fringed edging which makes it look quite special. I loved making this and am sure that I will be making more throws in the future.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mQBebnVE9Jc/U3EYAFz3zaI/AAAAAAAAB_o/_fITWuRvUVk/s1600/DSC05165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mQBebnVE9Jc/U3EYAFz3zaI/AAAAAAAAB_o/_fITWuRvUVk/s1600/DSC05165.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mgn31JWxrsU/U3EYBGGUDWI/AAAAAAAAB_k/-YXlpRW4LBs/s1600/DSC05166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mgn31JWxrsU/U3EYBGGUDWI/AAAAAAAAB_k/-YXlpRW4LBs/s1600/DSC05166.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UtwjpzU8Ank/U3EYBp_hKRI/AAAAAAAAB_c/7I0czgJ-8rk/s1600/DSC05168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UtwjpzU8Ank/U3EYBp_hKRI/AAAAAAAAB_c/7I0czgJ-8rk/s1600/DSC05168.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
I have finally returned to my knitting needles for a while and have been working for most of this week on a second version of the Central Park Hoodie. My first attempt at this jumper was a big success and is probably my most worn piece of knitwear ever. I still love it and have often thought to make another one in a different colour. The recent Drops Yarn wool sale provided just the incentive to start on a lovely green hoodie. The yarn is a lot springier than the Donegal Tweed I used first time around. I think this means the hoodie will turn out a bit more fitted than the first version.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-quB16nTKUP4/U3EYV3bJh6I/AAAAAAAACAY/TsadRNYipTU/s1600/DSC05196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-quB16nTKUP4/U3EYV3bJh6I/AAAAAAAACAY/TsadRNYipTU/s1600/DSC05196.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Hope to finish this very soon - maybe by the weekend so I can show it off at Knit Club!<br /><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fDdNCZ18AGA/U3EYAK6HFEI/AAAAAAAAB_M/AneqsS5QRTU/s1600/DSC05161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
Lizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00900642723221525037noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24740181.post-46002290957845229812014-04-03T15:31:00.001+01:002014-04-03T15:31:38.002+01:00Little Mermaid - a crochet tail<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uvC9riGplmk/Uz1s8WEfXyI/AAAAAAAAB-c/Zfb0inuu78c/s1600/DSC05143.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uvC9riGplmk/Uz1s8WEfXyI/AAAAAAAAB-c/Zfb0inuu78c/s1600/DSC05143.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I finished the Mermaid Tail baby snuggle really quickly - it was a joy to crochet. The shell stitch pattern gives it an interesting scaley look which seems particularly fitting.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TqR-djC2Hjs/Uz1s9sWGXrI/AAAAAAAAB-w/wkMMbi2GQvg/s1600/DSC05145.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TqR-djC2Hjs/Uz1s9sWGXrI/AAAAAAAAB-w/wkMMbi2GQvg/s1600/DSC05145.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a><br />
The pattern is by Kat Goldin and is available free on the Guardian website. It is the best mermaid tail pattern that I have come across and I can't wait to see it modelled by the baby. She is going to look so cute. The yarn is James C Brett Marble Chunky and I used just under one ball in the green colourway. It was very reasonably priced and feels lovely and soft. I am tempted to make another one. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3Tt1r6tSozU/Uz1s74nbCVI/AAAAAAAAB-U/ciKy3XUK8P8/s1600/DSC05139.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3Tt1r6tSozU/Uz1s74nbCVI/AAAAAAAAB-U/ciKy3XUK8P8/s1600/DSC05139.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TqR-djC2Hjs/Uz1s9sWGXrI/AAAAAAAAB-w/wkMMbi2GQvg/s1600/DSC05145.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PmH005JenL4/Uz1s9A1QXgI/AAAAAAAAB-s/t09EH_G4Ck8/s1600/DSC05144.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PmH005JenL4/Uz1s9A1QXgI/AAAAAAAAB-s/t09EH_G4Ck8/s1600/DSC05144.JPG" height="240" width="320" /> </a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, I have dug out the pure linen that I bought from Yarn Paradise and have started another project from Yumiko Alexander's Rustic Crochet. This time it is the Pearls shrug. The yarn looks a bit like string and I am wondering if I should have got it in a different colour. Hopefully it will soften up a bit when I wash it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0L9oLSye2P4/Uz1s8HP4FMI/AAAAAAAAB-k/F3ocnBk9eGY/s1600/DSC05141.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0L9oLSye2P4/Uz1s8HP4FMI/AAAAAAAAB-k/F3ocnBk9eGY/s1600/DSC05141.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Lizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00900642723221525037noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24740181.post-10753581231153932282014-03-31T19:35:00.003+01:002014-03-31T19:35:41.506+01:00The Quite Contrary Wrap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5vnON05R7XA/UzmyD2k-KaI/AAAAAAAAB9c/36xycwqNUjA/s1600/DSC05132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5vnON05R7XA/UzmyD2k-KaI/AAAAAAAAB9c/36xycwqNUjA/s1600/DSC05132.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
I totally fell in love with this pattern the moment I saw it. It is Sandra Paul's Quite Contrary Wrap - found on Ravelry of course. The pattern is very well written and an absolute joy to crochet. The stitch pattern changes enough to keep it interesting and the end result is stunning. I particularly like the flower picot edging. It is quite an easy project which looks far more complicated than it is. I may well make this again.<br />
I used Ice Yarns Premium Angora which was a mega bargain - what's not to love about this whole project!<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pnlMz0agBI4/UzmyD_g7KWI/AAAAAAAAB9k/NATsRzi1gwE/s1600/DSC05133.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pnlMz0agBI4/UzmyD_g7KWI/AAAAAAAAB9k/NATsRzi1gwE/s1600/DSC05133.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BFJaIhH068M/UzmyEOJk7eI/AAAAAAAAB9g/d3JRAB8Our4/s1600/DSC05134.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BFJaIhH068M/UzmyEOJk7eI/AAAAAAAAB9g/d3JRAB8Our4/s1600/DSC05134.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
I love that you can wear it as a stole...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B7VQBuH3300/UzmyFE_gNBI/AAAAAAAAB9o/BLORT1q383Y/s1600/DSC05135.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B7VQBuH3300/UzmyFE_gNBI/AAAAAAAAB9o/BLORT1q383Y/s1600/DSC05135.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><br />
...or scrunch it up like a scarf.<br />
<br />
At the moment I am working on a small Mermaid Tail. It is actually a snuggly cocoon wrap for a newborn baby.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SROBr2UbKHM/UzmyFiDEc8I/AAAAAAAAB9w/L8s7fqzYalw/s1600/DSC05137.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SROBr2UbKHM/UzmyFiDEc8I/AAAAAAAAB9w/L8s7fqzYalw/s1600/DSC05137.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a>Lizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00900642723221525037noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24740181.post-7871687708164866752014-03-08T17:29:00.000+00:002014-03-08T17:29:04.241+00:00Sand and Shells<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xdWS9WXt4qM/UxtRI6QV4bI/AAAAAAAAB88/lhZYQgZhTek/s1600/DSC05118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xdWS9WXt4qM/UxtRI6QV4bI/AAAAAAAAB88/lhZYQgZhTek/s1600/DSC05118.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
Just finished Yumiko Alexander's "Sand and Shells" and really love it.<br />
I used a cone of Yeoman Yarns' Cotton Club No. 8 Linen which was a total bargain at just £10 including postage. The cotton /linen mix is lovely but not the softest. The slubby yarn gives it a natural rustic look, which is what I wanted. The garment shape is very unusual being a cross between a jumper and a poncho.<br />
I have started an easy shawl which is ideal to crochet whilst watching subtitled foreign dramas on the telly. I have 2 balls of Autumn wind from lotus Yarns to use up. It is a cotton and cashmere blend and is beautifully soft.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d4JfJadDAiU/UxtTTSZEEiI/AAAAAAAAB9I/bZ3dwTWvmxU/s1600/DSC05121.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d4JfJadDAiU/UxtTTSZEEiI/AAAAAAAAB9I/bZ3dwTWvmxU/s1600/DSC05121.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Lizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00900642723221525037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24740181.post-38037979962731779192014-02-27T09:35:00.000+00:002014-02-27T09:35:00.927+00:00The Victory Wrap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jmQ2AUFvRQw/Uw8FEDwO1CI/AAAAAAAAB8s/Y4bJixo7HDQ/s1600/DSC05093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">. <img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jmQ2AUFvRQw/Uw8FEDwO1CI/AAAAAAAAB8s/Y4bJixo7HDQ/s1600/DSC05093.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
I just finished this little shawl yesterday and am quite pleased with it. It is maybe a little more crescent shaped than I had expected but is otherwise rather sweet. The pattern is from Ravelry of course and is The Victory Wrap by Erika Flory. The pattern suggests worsted weight yarn but I used a dk. 2 balls of Wendy Merino dk for the body of the shawl and a single ball of the same in cream for the lace edging. I could perhaps have blocked the points a little more sharply but was very keen to wear it and cut a few corners. Lizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00900642723221525037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24740181.post-25442851456000432782014-02-21T20:46:00.003+00:002014-02-21T20:46:44.739+00:00Back to blogA few months ago I managed to shut myself out of my blog and try as I might it seemed that I would never be able to post here again. However , my clever husband has just managed to sort it all out for me. I am really happy to be back in my blog!<br />
Since I last posted there has been a whole lot of crochet and knitting going on. It would take ages to update on everything I have made so I am just going to concentrate on some recent favourites for now.<br />
At Christmas I made an army of gingerbread men for my workmates. They were a lot of fun to make and I was very pleased with them. I used mainly acrylic yarns as I wanted to make quite a few and wasn't sure whether or not people would want to keep them after the festive season. Everyone seemed to really like the little guys and wore them around the shop for several days. Customers kept asking where we got them - I was quite pleased.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-exAkKYXrnok/UweyuTco8VI/AAAAAAAAB6o/1ZYTU9ZxkPY/s1600/DSC04895.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-exAkKYXrnok/UweyuTco8VI/AAAAAAAAB6o/1ZYTU9ZxkPY/s1600/DSC04895.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-to6VnPfufkQ/UweyutC8x_I/AAAAAAAAB6w/cWHIcK2ERP4/s1600/DSC04893.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-to6VnPfufkQ/UweyutC8x_I/AAAAAAAAB6w/cWHIcK2ERP4/s1600/DSC04893.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wD6I4LRfIXI/Uweyz9dXvoI/AAAAAAAAB64/I5UaTNyTWoI/s1600/DSC04900.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wD6I4LRfIXI/Uweyz9dXvoI/AAAAAAAAB64/I5UaTNyTWoI/s1600/DSC04900.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
I promised the husband a jumper ages ago and even got as far as purchasing the yarn - some gorgeous soft Alpaca Boucle from Drops Yarns. A friend suggested that I might feel more inclined to finish the jumper quickly if I doubled up the yarn and knit it on big needles. Good idea! I managed to knit up a superchunky v-necked pullover in less than a week. It is a plain design but is very warm and has been worn quite a few times.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W7-9uBZBSV0/UwezZTndDHI/AAAAAAAAB7c/hoaj440HCyY/s1600/DSC04997.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W7-9uBZBSV0/UwezZTndDHI/AAAAAAAAB7c/hoaj440HCyY/s1600/DSC04997.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Lately I have gone headband crazy. A friend asked me to make one inspired by a design that her daughter had seen in a shop. I ended up making about a dozen. These little projects are ideal for trying out new yarns, stitch patterns and techniques and can easily be finished in an evening. I used up odd balls of yarn that I had in my stash from acrylic to silk. I followed patterns for some and improvised the design for others. This is a few of them...<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F7c0KMkuHMo/UwezYWh3JuI/AAAAAAAAB7I/nDKx9SO4lQY/s1600/DSC04910.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F7c0KMkuHMo/UwezYWh3JuI/AAAAAAAAB7I/nDKx9SO4lQY/s1600/DSC04910.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alpaca headband</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yO-u5RDDB2g/UwezYh0su0I/AAAAAAAAB7Q/me34FOV0w_E/s1600/DSC04913.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yO-u5RDDB2g/UwezYh0su0I/AAAAAAAAB7Q/me34FOV0w_E/s1600/DSC04913.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">King Cole Galaxy - sequinned yarn</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5iFP3xS0oPA/UwezYoNNmbI/AAAAAAAAB7U/GeLxcdhBXL8/s1600/DSC04914.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5iFP3xS0oPA/UwezYoNNmbI/AAAAAAAAB7U/GeLxcdhBXL8/s1600/DSC04914.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rowan Wool Cotton</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mQ1Z4Dz3fZo/UwezZqBQOyI/AAAAAAAAB7k/0PvaGoZHvwM/s1600/DSC05008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mQ1Z4Dz3fZo/UwezZqBQOyI/AAAAAAAAB7k/0PvaGoZHvwM/s1600/DSC05008.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Super cheap sequinned chunky yarn from Tiger</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iihPW-xn2s4/UwezaeNs_9I/AAAAAAAAB8E/YOATWfRWYmk/s1600/DSC05022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iihPW-xn2s4/UwezaeNs_9I/AAAAAAAAB8E/YOATWfRWYmk/s1600/DSC05022.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Knitted turban style headband in James Brett Marble Chunky</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WIVKMuNSHd8/Uweza3z47aI/AAAAAAAAB74/QLRw3-riQvs/s1600/DSC05025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WIVKMuNSHd8/Uweza3z47aI/AAAAAAAAB74/QLRw3-riQvs/s1600/DSC05025.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Poundland acrylic</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YLD4-krInOA/UwezbCFg2FI/AAAAAAAAB8I/qwUi3-nY1So/s1600/DSC05033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YLD4-krInOA/UwezbCFg2FI/AAAAAAAAB8I/qwUi3-nY1So/s1600/DSC05033.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More Poundland acrylic</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g_aYHWqOW4w/Uwezcd0nfZI/AAAAAAAAB8Q/RuGBJZjLds0/s1600/DSC05057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g_aYHWqOW4w/Uwezcd0nfZI/AAAAAAAAB8Q/RuGBJZjLds0/s1600/DSC05057.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yet more Poundland acrylic!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HQF1_gToEe8/UwezbyzB7qI/AAAAAAAAB8M/DrOI9lR9RGQ/s1600/DSC05036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HQF1_gToEe8/UwezbyzB7qI/AAAAAAAAB8M/DrOI9lR9RGQ/s1600/DSC05036.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Louisa Harding Grace - silk and wool</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After the success of the gingerbread brooches at Christmas, I decided that it would be fun to make hearts for Valentines day. I enjoyed making the little stuffed brooches and decorating them with cute flowers. Over a week I managed to produce a large jar of hearts...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9vecnGhse_s/UwezdBD1TMI/AAAAAAAAB8c/7AX6pHbHE_M/s1600/DSC05086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9vecnGhse_s/UwezdBD1TMI/AAAAAAAAB8c/7AX6pHbHE_M/s1600/DSC05086.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pq50y-69NUk/Uwezcw65exI/AAAAAAAAB8g/xvS0FQ_CNbM/s1600/DSC05085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pq50y-69NUk/Uwezcw65exI/AAAAAAAAB8g/xvS0FQ_CNbM/s1600/DSC05085.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
This is now becoming something of a tradition. What can I make for Easter?Lizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00900642723221525037noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24740181.post-54278507064598117922013-10-04T18:31:00.000+01:002013-10-04T18:31:45.483+01:00Oh My Bear!Haven't posted for a while, but I have certainly been knitting and crocheting. Today I finished sewing up the "Oh My Bear" hoodie by Tiny Owl Knits. It is currently being blocked and I think it may take a while as it soaked up a lot of water. <br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_slGcjfqABM/Uk7zFo0kCnI/AAAAAAAAB5c/TIPzgcp8FFQ/s1600/DSC04731.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_slGcjfqABM/Uk7zFo0kCnI/AAAAAAAAB5c/TIPzgcp8FFQ/s400/DSC04731.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
I have been wanting to make this for ages. When I found the exact yarn needed at half price on Black Sheep Wools website, it seemed like the ideal time to start the project. The pattern is really easy and took about a week to knit up. I haven't done any intarsia for ages and really enjoyed the challenge. The hoodie took seven skeins of Debbie Bliss Luxury Donegal Chunky and scraps from my stash for the bear design. I can't wait to wear it - modelled shots next post! This jumper is really on trend and was great fun to make. Don't be put off by the bear design, it was much easier to do than it looks.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UWA9gi2zBQw/Uk7zHccpuhI/AAAAAAAAB6E/2bgCNgsiX0c/s1600/DSC04739.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UWA9gi2zBQw/Uk7zHccpuhI/AAAAAAAAB6E/2bgCNgsiX0c/s320/DSC04739.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lnNy4yYrlMs/Uk7zH8f5WEI/AAAAAAAAB6M/P--qgjWmp5k/s1600/DSC04740.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lnNy4yYrlMs/Uk7zH8f5WEI/AAAAAAAAB6M/P--qgjWmp5k/s320/DSC04740.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The Maraschino Shawl is another lovely pattern found on Ravelry. I used 3 balls of Drops Cotton Viscose for this and am very pleased with the end result. The yarn drapes well and has a nice shiny appearance. The border is a picot and leaf design that I found in a Japanese craft book. I think it finishes the shawl off perfectly. I will make this design again using a finer yarn at some point.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dlv8Ae9ZAzM/Uk7zGQ_UkbI/AAAAAAAAB5o/KwScTlEteYo/s1600/DSC04736.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dlv8Ae9ZAzM/Uk7zGQ_UkbI/AAAAAAAAB5o/KwScTlEteYo/s320/DSC04736.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--Q10C6oNog4/Uk7zGyUrCsI/AAAAAAAAB54/-K3Hu00vMoc/s1600/DSC04737.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--Q10C6oNog4/Uk7zGyUrCsI/AAAAAAAAB54/-K3Hu00vMoc/s320/DSC04737.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qwRV7a-b7Ik/Uk7zHWI6GPI/AAAAAAAAB6A/XP07zCG7dh0/s1600/DSC04738.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qwRV7a-b7Ik/Uk7zHWI6GPI/AAAAAAAAB6A/XP07zCG7dh0/s320/DSC04738.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Next up is this beautiful crochet shawl made from a German pattern that was again spotted on Ravelry. There were many fabulous examples of the shawl using Crazy Zauberball yarn and it just had to be my choice. I love the colours and the way that they show off the stitch design so well. It was a quick and easy project but so very effective. I've already worn this one quite a few times.<br />
Also worn a lot...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v6FTW_NXTxs/Uk7zF7QJ5jI/AAAAAAAAB5s/Hczxid6Z_FY/s1600/DSC04734.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v6FTW_NXTxs/Uk7zF7QJ5jI/AAAAAAAAB5s/Hczxid6Z_FY/s320/DSC04734.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
A lovely, snuggly, soft cardi with a shawl collar. I got the Sirdar Babouska supercheap from Kemps Wools and knitted this up in a few days. It is really comfortable and cosy. I have some more of this yarn in my stash and look forward to some more very wearable garments for the Winter.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c37m1b5oxuE/Uk7zFvfAY7I/AAAAAAAAB5g/LvWB6Wf6Gbc/s1600/DSC04723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c37m1b5oxuE/Uk7zFvfAY7I/AAAAAAAAB5g/LvWB6Wf6Gbc/s320/DSC04723.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Earlier in the Summer I made this cute hat for my gorgeous great niece, little Lolli, to keep the sun off her precious head. She wears hats well and looks like a little star. Love her to bits!<br />
There are several works in progress at the moment. Nearly finished are the fingerless mitts that I am knitting from a single ball of Crofter. They are basically 2 rectangles sewn together with thumb holes at the top. I like the way Crofter looks when it is knitted up - quite fancy for such a simple knit.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nxYk8DkPiPQ/Uk7zIogxeqI/AAAAAAAAB6U/lclDB9hnclU/s1600/DSC04742.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nxYk8DkPiPQ/Uk7zIogxeqI/AAAAAAAAB6U/lclDB9hnclU/s320/DSC04742.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The Cimarron Shawl is working up quickly as it is such a pleasure to see the design growing. I hope to finish it over the weekend.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GcuU8sKepDc/Uk7zIlmOgrI/AAAAAAAAB6Y/7LLVcmh6StM/s1600/DSC04744.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GcuU8sKepDc/Uk7zIlmOgrI/AAAAAAAAB6Y/7LLVcmh6StM/s320/DSC04744.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Lizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00900642723221525037noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24740181.post-37258467346454462642013-07-16T09:28:00.003+01:002013-07-16T09:28:44.210+01:00Adventure Time!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZW7qgg1Ekfo/UeUAu-EQTaI/AAAAAAAAB4U/Q7MJeOkZumc/s1600/DSC04551.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZW7qgg1Ekfo/UeUAu-EQTaI/AAAAAAAAB4U/Q7MJeOkZumc/s400/DSC04551.JPG" width="300" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5aUwe5nJ028/UeUAvsq98wI/AAAAAAAAB4c/R12QEkbPrtQ/s1600/DSC04555.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
This little guy was made by special request of Millie to take on her school trip. You may recognise him as Finn the human from the cartoon "Adventure Time." He is knitted in Stylecraft Special Aran and is a very splendid fellow. There is loads of yarn left over from this project which needs to be made into something. it was important to use exactly these colours so I couldn't raid my stash and had to buy some more. Here he is having an adventure in our garden...<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5aUwe5nJ028/UeUAvsq98wI/AAAAAAAAB4c/R12QEkbPrtQ/s1600/DSC04555.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5aUwe5nJ028/UeUAvsq98wI/AAAAAAAAB4c/R12QEkbPrtQ/s400/DSC04555.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
My socks on two needles have at last got finished and sewn up - just in time for the heatwave! I am quite pleased with them. The seams are hardly noticeable and the knitting is much quicker on two needles. I used about a ball and a quarter of very cheap sock yarn purchased at "Tiger". Considering it was only £1 a ball it is pretty nice.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dobqDb-6XDI/UeUAv_AyHkI/AAAAAAAAB4g/bnU8R0ZXzF0/s1600/DSC04557.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dobqDb-6XDI/UeUAv_AyHkI/AAAAAAAAB4g/bnU8R0ZXzF0/s400/DSC04557.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-901nr2bXyEw/UeUAwY0lOjI/AAAAAAAAB4s/xJ1htBMySRg/s1600/DSC04560.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-901nr2bXyEw/UeUAwY0lOjI/AAAAAAAAB4s/xJ1htBMySRg/s400/DSC04560.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I love this pretty top in Rowan Savannah. It was very simple to knit and only took two evenings on size 8mm needles. The crochet trim round the neck is the perfect finishing touch. I plan to make another of these and will add a few inches to the length - it is really a bit short for me.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pL-DOIYbGHg/UeUAxMuRRWI/AAAAAAAAB4w/DFpdRziHkpI/s1600/DSC04564.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pL-DOIYbGHg/UeUAxMuRRWI/AAAAAAAAB4w/DFpdRziHkpI/s400/DSC04564.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xBwWrxtSDpE/UeUAxb0CnxI/AAAAAAAAB40/IddrQ8VDx2s/s1600/DSC04566.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xBwWrxtSDpE/UeUAxb0CnxI/AAAAAAAAB40/IddrQ8VDx2s/s400/DSC04566.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
I have mostly been working on my crochet blanket this week - it's looking beautiful and I can't wait to finish it.Lizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00900642723221525037noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24740181.post-2087784747354701242013-07-04T09:16:00.002+01:002013-07-04T09:16:45.926+01:00Scarves and SunhatsStill no sign of Summer arriving, although we are promised hotter, sunnier weather in the next few days. I am ready with a crochet sunhat...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jqx_yW1y50U/UdUprcJvEtI/AAAAAAAAB3k/wRDu3el89Q4/s1600/DSC04497.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jqx_yW1y50U/UdUprcJvEtI/AAAAAAAAB3k/wRDu3el89Q4/s400/DSC04497.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The Ewa hat is one of my favourite hat patterns of all time. It is simple but turns out a beautifully shaped hat every time. The simple design is also crying out to be embellished with some sort of amazing crochet flower. For the hat, I used RYC Cotton Silk and for the flower Katia Degrade. I have made this design many times now and it never fails me.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RkxPzVPLY3A/UdUpslmX5oI/AAAAAAAAB38/pGIIa1be9ZM/s1600/DSC04522.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RkxPzVPLY3A/UdUpslmX5oI/AAAAAAAAB38/pGIIa1be9ZM/s400/DSC04522.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
I recently took part in the Summer Song Shawl Knitalong hosted by Tinyknitter on Ravelry. I chose Rico Creative Designs Reflection for my shawl and used 4mm needles. For the smallest size shawl, I used about one and a quarter balls. I do love the finished shawlette but if I made another would use larger needles for greater drape and stronger coloured beads for greater contrasted. The beads were added as I went along using a very tiny crochet hook. It only took a few days knitting to finish this one and it is lovely to see the other versions that are now appearing on Ravelry.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZXZTjc49Yw/UdUpsGAlhnI/AAAAAAAAB30/b1P6LnHBCdA/s1600/DSC04517.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZXZTjc49Yw/UdUpsGAlhnI/AAAAAAAAB30/b1P6LnHBCdA/s400/DSC04517.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I had to block the shawl well to open out the lace and get the lovely pointed edges. The blocking also increased the size of the shawl quite a bit - I was worried it was going to be too small when I was knitting it. Turned out really pretty.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u7R5z3v5MVU/UdUptBjqFNI/AAAAAAAAB4E/GxqHQzoeuJA/s1600/DSC04528.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u7R5z3v5MVU/UdUptBjqFNI/AAAAAAAAB4E/GxqHQzoeuJA/s400/DSC04528.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Here's a scarf that I started ages ago.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Na9vFZHJAAE/UdUptn93cAI/AAAAAAAAB4I/qBtun9w-Lv4/s1600/DSC04537.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Na9vFZHJAAE/UdUptn93cAI/AAAAAAAAB4I/qBtun9w-Lv4/s400/DSC04537.JPG" width="300" /> </a> </div>
<br />
It is the "Just A Whisper" scarf that I previously made in a bright green sequined mohair from Ice Yarn. At last, the lovely ball of Kidsilk Haze Stripe has been knitted up into something very wearable. Using extra large needles makes one 50g ball go a very long way and still produces a soft , fluffy, warm fabric. I had quite a bit left over - maybe as much as a third of the ball. <br />
Happy knitting!Lizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00900642723221525037noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24740181.post-78988208379188206282013-06-26T10:04:00.001+01:002013-06-26T10:04:10.706+01:00Snuggly Socks For A Cold Summer!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UsV8mxQcvLk/UcqldFytXkI/AAAAAAAAB10/bZwyu627csA/s1600/DSC04344.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UsV8mxQcvLk/UcqldFytXkI/AAAAAAAAB10/bZwyu627csA/s400/DSC04344.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wAagHonDics/Ucqldi_0-nI/AAAAAAAAB18/AkdmB2dqlOQ/s1600/DSC04345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wAagHonDics/Ucqldi_0-nI/AAAAAAAAB18/AkdmB2dqlOQ/s400/DSC04345.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
It has been ages since my last post, but I can assure you that there has been plenty of knitting going on. I had never really taken to knitting socks in the past, but I have recently discovered how fun it is. The yarns are just amazing and it is a chance to try out new techniques and stitch patterns in a small project. This lovely red pair were knitted from the toe up out of some Regia sock yarn that I picked up in a sale recently for £1 a ball. Bargain! I was so encouraged by the way they turned out that I cast on another pair immediately they were finished. More bargain yarn, two at a time toe up socks.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W2axsCv6sNU/UcqlvsfivFI/AAAAAAAAB2Y/f99ZL1uQ5jI/s1600/DSC04401.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W2axsCv6sNU/UcqlvsfivFI/AAAAAAAAB2Y/f99ZL1uQ5jI/s400/DSC04401.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
There are more socks on my needles at the moment but I am trying a pair on straight needles. These will need to be carefully seamed up the side when finished. I prefer knitting on straight needles and find it much quicker and more comfortable on my hands. Hopefully there will be more about these in my nex post.<br />
Shawls continue to be a favourite knit of mine, and I have two on the go at the moment. Firstly, I have started Knitty's "Citron" in some gorgeous soft Malabrigo lace yarn. The colour and the feel and wonderful.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fT3r5OzImWY/UcqmGbe930I/AAAAAAAAB3I/a4OSKnFrr3w/s1600/DSC04424.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fT3r5OzImWY/UcqmGbe930I/AAAAAAAAB3I/a4OSKnFrr3w/s400/DSC04424.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I also started a lace pattern shawl in some Rico Reflections - loving the sparkliness of this yarn!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-krvvtaPLmbA/UcqmGypefiI/AAAAAAAAB3Q/C7jiBUJLhhw/s1600/DSC04479.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-krvvtaPLmbA/UcqmGypefiI/AAAAAAAAB3Q/C7jiBUJLhhw/s400/DSC04479.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I finished my entrelac headband a while ago. Another great pattern from Knitty called Gray Gardens. I am super proud of this as it is the first time I have done entrelac. The colours of the Noro yarn work really well for this project . It was great fun to knit and I am planning a larger project in Noro Silk Garden soon.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HOg-h6ubppk/Ucqldxas02I/AAAAAAAAB2I/YCcrILQd1MA/s1600/DSC04375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HOg-h6ubppk/Ucqldxas02I/AAAAAAAAB2I/YCcrILQd1MA/s320/DSC04375.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m7DLnvLmDAk/UcqlepPjxwI/AAAAAAAAB2M/ftm4wuPXqeo/s1600/DSC04376.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m7DLnvLmDAk/UcqlepPjxwI/AAAAAAAAB2M/ftm4wuPXqeo/s320/DSC04376.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
I have also been enjoying crochet very much lately. Previous attempts at making blankets have usually been abandoned when i have about enough squares to make a small bag or cushion. This time, I am determined to finish this amazing crochet blanket that I have been admiring on the Drops website for years. I have seen many lovely versions of this blanket on Ravelry and hope to be adding a photo of mine soon. I have decided to make it bigger than the pattern states as that seems to give a smallish throw. I want mine to be magnificent! I already have almost enough squares and will start joining them over the next few days. I am using various colours of Drops Delight. This is a wonderful yarn with beautiful colours. It was also on sale when I purchased it, which makes this an incredibly affordable project.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D86gG4FQGRI/UcqmFv3xEAI/AAAAAAAAB24/ojzNWmDb-mY/s1600/DSC04420.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D86gG4FQGRI/UcqmFv3xEAI/AAAAAAAAB24/ojzNWmDb-mY/s320/DSC04420.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KMTZ8Juf_IE/UcqmGPSJJ_I/AAAAAAAAB3M/VwA4VUr5LuU/s1600/DSC04422.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KMTZ8Juf_IE/UcqmGPSJJ_I/AAAAAAAAB3M/VwA4VUr5LuU/s320/DSC04422.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Also crocheted recently, but not yet worn, is this lovely ripple scarf. I used 2 balls of Noro Silk Garden sock yarn. Noro has always been my favourite yarn producer. It doesn't matter what you make as it always looks beautiful in these amazing colourways. This was another sale yarn - Noro is normally far too expensive!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SrLr0AC0QfQ/UcqmFIZ5JcI/AAAAAAAAB3A/cKxbxDcU8pc/s1600/DSC04403.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SrLr0AC0QfQ/UcqmFIZ5JcI/AAAAAAAAB3A/cKxbxDcU8pc/s400/DSC04403.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UHYsiPGY9sM/UcqmFVNS9_I/AAAAAAAAB2w/0IVchf-vyFs/s1600/DSC04418.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UHYsiPGY9sM/UcqmFVNS9_I/AAAAAAAAB2w/0IVchf-vyFs/s400/DSC04418.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
This little knitted scarf with crochet edging was finished a while ago but I forgot to blog about it. The pattern and yarn were a kit from Mrs Moon, which is a lovely yarn store in London. I really like the simple, elegant design and will probably make this scarf again for presents.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8NTKjfViPBo/UcqmES9y3qI/AAAAAAAAB2g/062TWpr6bCk/s1600/DSC04395.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8NTKjfViPBo/UcqmES9y3qI/AAAAAAAAB2g/062TWpr6bCk/s400/DSC04395.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
Bye for now! Well it is Wimbledon week...Lizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00900642723221525037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24740181.post-34386558028702986352013-03-20T14:39:00.000+00:002013-03-20T14:44:31.035+00:00Warm Woolies<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hZqjSIjQU54/UUnCZoJxDnI/AAAAAAAAB0g/Wm8A0Gguxio/s1600/DSC04325.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hZqjSIjQU54/UUnCZoJxDnI/AAAAAAAAB0g/Wm8A0Gguxio/s640/DSC04325.JPG" width="480" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The Alpaca Cotton jumper finally got finished. I had stalled a while back and got wrapped up in other projects. The return of freezing cold weather recently prompted me to finish off the sleeves and sew up this warm, cosy sweater. The pattern is "Nellie" by Kim Hargreaves and is a simple stocking stitch sweater with wide raglan sleeves and a deep v neck. I've worn it a few times already and love it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-McuTqLx-Yjk/UUnCbxD8ieI/AAAAAAAAB1I/C_CI8dGipuo/s1600/DSC04331.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HAO_RtwWddo/UUnCbWKnWrI/AAAAAAAAB1E/mgAktUdbAeg/s1600/DSC04330.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HAO_RtwWddo/UUnCbWKnWrI/AAAAAAAAB1E/mgAktUdbAeg/s400/DSC04330.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hZqjSIjQU54/UUnCZoJxDnI/AAAAAAAAB0k/wPh3FvhGb3g/s1600/DSC04325.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cwGfYMYpMdg/UUnCcRHLG0I/AAAAAAAAB1M/JX8b9f0t57M/s1600/DSC04334.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
The baby clothes are still on the needles and really need to be finished before they are outgrown. The little purple coat just needs the sleeves finishing and buttons sewn on. It was fun to knit and should look really cute.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-McuTqLx-Yjk/UUnCbxD8ieI/AAAAAAAAB1I/C_CI8dGipuo/s1600/DSC04331.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-McuTqLx-Yjk/UUnCbxD8ieI/AAAAAAAAB1I/C_CI8dGipuo/s400/DSC04331.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
The Spanish Dress from an old issue of the Debbie Bliss knitting magazine is very sweet in moss stitch with tiny cables. I am using Rowan Cotton Glace to knit the little bodice and will be making the skirt from some Liberty Tana Lawn in my stash. No hurry here as it far too cold to wear this yet and I have gone for the 6 months size so it will be just right for Summer.<br />
I went to the Stitch and Knit Show at Olympia last Sunday - it was great! I was determined to use up some of the yarn that I bought at Ally Pally last year before I got tempted by a whole load more. So, with that in mind, I whipped up this lovely Triangle Cowl from the Natural Dye Studio Dazzle dk that I had purchased there. I wore it to the show and am quite pleased with it. Of course I was tempted by many beautiful yarns at Olympia and gave in to temptation to some extent. One of my favourite buys was this ball of lace weight yarn from a German company called Schoppel.<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KOnn_jqEHys/UUnCc1byvRI/AAAAAAAAB1U/C_Vq6lVdOGQ/s1600/DSC04335.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KOnn_jqEHys/UUnCc1byvRI/AAAAAAAAB1U/C_Vq6lVdOGQ/s320/DSC04335.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
I love the colours and am thinking that it will probably be good for a shawl. There are 800m of lace yarn on this little beauty so there will be plenty of suitable patterns to choose from.<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZVhg40yqfdA/UUnCaltn5HI/AAAAAAAAB04/L7TeldYbUB8/s1600/DSC04329.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZVhg40yqfdA/UUnCaltn5HI/AAAAAAAAB04/L7TeldYbUB8/s400/DSC04329.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
The "Lunatic Fringe Shawl" from the new edition of "Knitty" really caught my eye recently. I wanted to make it in a drapey yarn that would be suitable for Summer wear. Katia Hydra seemed to offer just the properties I was looking for and comes in some lovely pale Summery colours. It is a simple pattern but I am not as fast at knitting on circular needles and it seems to be taking me longer than usual to get this project going. I am going to persevere and not give in to the temptation of casting on with some of my lovely new yarn.<br />
Here is Alfie watching me knit...<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cwGfYMYpMdg/UUnCcRHLG0I/AAAAAAAAB1M/JX8b9f0t57M/s1600/DSC04334.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cwGfYMYpMdg/UUnCcRHLG0I/AAAAAAAAB1M/JX8b9f0t57M/s640/DSC04334.JPG" width="640" /> </a><br />
I would like to think he is fascinated by the process, but suspect that he actually just wants to eat my wool! Lizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00900642723221525037noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24740181.post-32365085048121569732013-02-13T21:28:00.002+00:002013-02-13T21:28:49.222+00:00The Knitting Bag<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2T2MpqB-fPA/URv_qSYvrZI/AAAAAAAABzY/JQa-HRrswWs/s1600/DSC04225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2T2MpqB-fPA/URv_qSYvrZI/AAAAAAAABzY/JQa-HRrswWs/s400/DSC04225.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NfxiVLB0EdI/URv_9cMDa2I/AAAAAAAABz0/cC_Jov84Cxg/s1600/DSC04229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
I finished sewing up this lovely knitting bag this morning and am really pleased with it. The pattern is the "Knitting Needle Knitting Bag" by Pam Allen. It's a free pattern which I found through the amazing Ravelry site - where else! The Rowan Colourscape is a lovely yarn which I enjoyed knitting up. The finished bag looks great and is going to be a present for a knitting friend. I like it so much that I may have to make another for myself - plenty of Colourscape left in my stash. I got the wonderful old wooden needles for 20p in my local charity shop.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NfxiVLB0EdI/URv_9cMDa2I/AAAAAAAABz0/cC_Jov84Cxg/s1600/DSC04229.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NfxiVLB0EdI/URv_9cMDa2I/AAAAAAAABz0/cC_Jov84Cxg/s400/DSC04229.JPG" width="300" /> </a><br />
My alpaca legwarmers were finished and worn yesterday. The Katia alpaca yarn is possibly the nicest alpaca I have ever used. It is really soft and warm. The pattern was easy to follow and I will probably make another pair in a cheaper yarn. As far as I am concerned, legwarmers will never be out of fashion!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Sjz6P60T7E8/URv_qdxOOnI/AAAAAAAABzM/DIJLk8RuEqg/s1600/DSC04224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Sjz6P60T7E8/URv_qdxOOnI/AAAAAAAABzM/DIJLk8RuEqg/s400/DSC04224.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ufcRvk5yCsI/URv_qNjT1uI/AAAAAAAABzI/J6awdwZe7gk/s1600/DSC04221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ufcRvk5yCsI/URv_qNjT1uI/AAAAAAAABzI/J6awdwZe7gk/s400/DSC04221.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
The Belmondo Shawl has been one of my favourite patterns for ages now and this version is just beautiful. It is hard to go wrong with a yarn like Manos del Uruguay Silk Blend. The blend of silk and merino wool is lovely and soft to handle and to wear. The colours are also amazing.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-29dmWu4NCbA/URv_9ib69ZI/AAAAAAAABzs/ynQhh4B_HII/s1600/DSC04234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-29dmWu4NCbA/URv_9ib69ZI/AAAAAAAABzs/ynQhh4B_HII/s400/DSC04234.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z5qrze0ay4I/URv_-Q0im-I/AAAAAAAABz4/v9HM1GkIT4Y/s1600/DSC04235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
This evening I started a new crochet project. It's a simple bag made from Rowan denim. I'm hoping it will be strong and practical. It is a little boring so far - just endless double crochet. The simplicity of the bag is part of it's charm so I'm trying to finish it quickly before I get fed up with it.<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z5qrze0ay4I/URv_-Q0im-I/AAAAAAAABz4/v9HM1GkIT4Y/s1600/DSC04235.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z5qrze0ay4I/URv_-Q0im-I/AAAAAAAABz4/v9HM1GkIT4Y/s400/DSC04235.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />Lizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00900642723221525037noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24740181.post-65244880641707959282013-02-09T11:55:00.002+00:002013-02-09T11:55:19.442+00:00Baby Hat Supermodel<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fhCKg0jf8A4/URYp5MzEz4I/AAAAAAAAByk/pqMbZ51VIiw/s1600/379205_4679709065661_738946671_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fhCKg0jf8A4/URYp5MzEz4I/AAAAAAAAByk/pqMbZ51VIiw/s320/379205_4679709065661_738946671_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
Last week I got to see my beautiful new Great Niece for the first time - obviously I had been knitting baby hats for her for weeks. She is just beautiful and already knows how to rock a hand knitted hat. This is her in the cute <a href="http://www.easymakesmehappy.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/free-crochet-pattern-cross-stitch-hat.html">Cross Stitch Hat</a> by Tara Murray, which is a free pattern that I found through Ravelry. I love that you can customise this simple design with any cross stitch pattern that you like. The possibilities are endless.<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dly2Dxsh3Lw/URYp0AEDayI/AAAAAAAABxg/HmuCaxWDGPU/s1600/DSC04203.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dly2Dxsh3Lw/URYp0AEDayI/AAAAAAAABxg/HmuCaxWDGPU/s320/DSC04203.JPG" width="320" />be</a><br />
Next on that sweet little velvety soft head is the Candy Cane Hat from Itty-Bitty Hats by Susan B Anderson. I have made this one many times before and find it looks adorable in just about any combination of colours. There are lots of great patterns in Itty-Bitty Hats. I found another little beauty on Ravelry and knitted in just a few hours from a single ball of Sirdar Big Softie. Can't wait to see this one modelled! It is the <a href="http://www.downtownvania.com/2010/09/lele-baby-hat.html">LeLe Baby Hat</a> by Vania Jenny. The enormous bobble is such fun.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0w930ako778/URYp1h28boI/AAAAAAAAByA/M4FJPXzJybE/s1600/DSC04215.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0w930ako778/URYp1h28boI/AAAAAAAAByA/M4FJPXzJybE/s320/DSC04215.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
I don't think I posted pictures of my chunky alpaca cowl when I finished it , so here it is. It was a kit purchased from <a href="http://www.thetoftalpacashop.co.uk/">Toft Alpaca</a> before Christmas. I am loving alpaca at the moment and Toft sells amazing quality yarn from their own herd of animals. It is scrummy. The cowl is a simple circular knit in trinity stitch which is quite simple and gives a lovely textured look.<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d2SoaaNsT8k/URYp0FXuZoI/AAAAAAAABxc/x_uA5Hb2YR8/s1600/DSC04184.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d2SoaaNsT8k/URYp0FXuZoI/AAAAAAAABxc/x_uA5Hb2YR8/s320/DSC04184.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
I found some more excellent quality alpaca in my LYS, Mavis of Bushey, last week and was unable to resist. The shop is the only one I know of around this area that stocks a good range of Katia Yarns. This pure alpaca in a range of natural shades is incredibly soft and not a bad price either. I decided to use it for a pair of crochet legwarmers and it is working up very nicely. I hope to be wearing these soon - with more bad weather on the way they are just the thing for keeping the legs extra warm. There are those who feel legwarmers should have been left back in the 80's but I love them and will continue to wear them however unfashionable they may be considered. Here's what I've done so far...<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IEZcI2cu-Ls/URYp0ipOKwI/AAAAAAAABxo/mU6JjFzjEjA/s1600/DSC04209.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IEZcI2cu-Ls/URYp0ipOKwI/AAAAAAAABxo/mU6JjFzjEjA/s320/DSC04209.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
This second version of Kim Hargreaves beautiful pattern, Clarity, from her book "Cherished" is every bit as lovely as the first. I used Rowan Alpaca Cotton again for it's softness and warmth but this time in the cream colourway known as "Rice." <br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kuez9x_Dp-8/URYp1Gv1WDI/AAAAAAAABx0/wTAyV8q1Cco/s1600/DSC04212.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kuez9x_Dp-8/URYp1Gv1WDI/AAAAAAAABx0/wTAyV8q1Cco/s1600/DSC04212.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kuez9x_Dp-8/URYp1Gv1WDI/AAAAAAAABx0/wTAyV8q1Cco/s320/DSC04212.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-icS5KBFhh4c/URYp0nzifDI/AAAAAAAABxs/EmpNY65LKnY/s1600/DSC04211.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-icS5KBFhh4c/URYp0nzifDI/AAAAAAAABxs/EmpNY65LKnY/s320/DSC04211.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
After these cosy warm projects I felt the need to start something from the latest Spring/Summer Rowan book. "Kos" immediately appealed to me as an interesting project due to the variety of stitches used to create the lace patterned fabric. It is a simple shaped short sleeved top and should look stunning in this bright pink Paton's 4ply 100% Cotton.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XhIzGRDcKXA/URYp2e7Kz1I/AAAAAAAAByU/lXrxak_04sY/s1600/DSC04220.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XhIzGRDcKXA/URYp2e7Kz1I/AAAAAAAAByU/lXrxak_04sY/s320/DSC04220.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
I will probably take a while to finish this as there are still plenty of Winter jumpers to be worked on. It can be a cheery distraction between other projects. I recently knitted this gorgeous Klaralund jumper in less than a week from some Noro Silk garden that I was lucky enough to get half price in a sale. I have wanted to knit this for ages but was put off by the high price of Noro yarns. It is ok for small items like hats , scarves or shawls but usually very expensive to buy enough for a whole garment. The Klaralund is a very simple design constructed from 4 large rectangles sewn together - no shaping at all. Surprisingly it looks really stylish when completed.<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S20W0hZcW9Q/URYp1fwUHbI/AAAAAAAABx8/3sXy_KhKxCI/s1600/DSC04214.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S20W0hZcW9Q/URYp1fwUHbI/AAAAAAAABx8/3sXy_KhKxCI/s320/DSC04214.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
I've already worn it several times and would consider it to be one of my all time favourite jumpers. <br />
Still working on this Manos Del Uruguay Silk Blend Belmondo Shawl ...<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JTqJsS5PyO8/URYp15qB3VI/AAAAAAAAByQ/F1n9CXwHiIU/s1600/DSC04218.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JTqJsS5PyO8/URYp15qB3VI/AAAAAAAAByQ/F1n9CXwHiIU/s320/DSC04218.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
It's for a colleague at work. Must finish it this week!<br />
What's coming up next? Well, I think I could finish my big Alpaca Cotton raglan sleeved jumper, finish a knitted bag that will be a present for a friend, maybe some gloves and of course more delightfully cute baby hats.Lizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00900642723221525037noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24740181.post-71398479277184831532012-12-19T14:35:00.001+00:002012-12-19T14:35:20.037+00:00Killing Sweater!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EHhIwh48iAM/UNGzuLysEOI/AAAAAAAABwg/EYEyKgtJQlE/s1600/DSC04162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EHhIwh48iAM/UNGzuLysEOI/AAAAAAAABwg/EYEyKgtJQlE/s320/DSC04162.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Well, I finished it! This is me doing my best Sarah Lund pose in my fabulous new sweater. It is a very close copy of the one Lund wears for most of Series III. The yarn and pattern came from Scandinavian Knitting Design - they also have a pattern for the chevron design from the first three episodes. Very tempting! I enjoyed doing the colourwork and am very pleased with the garment.<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2Vhvbe0AOyQ/UNG0Bax9fgI/AAAAAAAABww/v2VpSXLhypM/s1600/DSC04165.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2Vhvbe0AOyQ/UNG0Bax9fgI/AAAAAAAABww/v2VpSXLhypM/s400/DSC04165.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
The Jan Sweater was knitted up ages ago but lay in the basket waiting to be sewn up for months. I am so glad that I finally got around to it. This is a lovely design and a very good fit. The Drops Baby Alpaca Silk yarn works well with the design. It is a good fit and very soft.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T9mcDsYmP_I/UNGz9ur6tPI/AAAAAAAABwo/XgIpk5B3rOM/s1600/DSC04157.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T9mcDsYmP_I/UNGz9ur6tPI/AAAAAAAABwo/XgIpk5B3rOM/s320/DSC04157.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
Yet anothe<b>r Belmondo shawl. This time it is knitted from a single skein of Manos de Urugauy Silk Blend</b>. The colours are beautiful and it feels so soft and silky.<br />
These little Holly Leaf pins are for little Christmas gifts. They don't take long to make and are very cute. I am using Rowan Fine Tweed as the colours and texture seemed just perfect for a slightly rustic look.<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-21D36Ut9qVc/UNG0FA--ZgI/AAAAAAAABw4/OLlL-r6nuY8/s1600/DSC04167.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-21D36Ut9qVc/UNG0FA--ZgI/AAAAAAAABw4/OLlL-r6nuY8/s320/DSC04167.JPG" width="320" /></a>Lizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00900642723221525037noreply@blogger.com10