shelby knits

Laughingbird Scarf

2011-12-11T12:23:00.000-08:00

Laughingbird Detail, a photo by ShelbyD on Flickr.

This scarf pattern was inspired by watching swirling water in the wake of a boat that was ferrying my family to Laughingbird Caye, a small island park off the coast of Belize. The Carribbean was a remarkable light, fresh blue, and I was very happy to find this colorway of tosh sock to help me realize this pattern. Blocking really opens up this pattern and emphasizes the wavy edges.

Materials
380 yards fingering weight yarn, such as 1 skein madelinetosh tosh sock in Windowpane color way
Size 7 straight or circular needle
4 stitch markers (optional)
Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
Blocking pins and/or wires

Abbreviations
K -knit
p -purl
K2tog - knit two together
p2tog - purl two together
Ssk - slip, slip, knit slipped stitches together
p2tog tbl - purl two together through back loop
yo - yarn over
Pm - place marker
Sl - slip as if to purl
* - repeat between *

Dimensions: Approx 7 inches wide by 72 inches long

Gauge: 6 stitches per inch in garter stitch

Pattern notes
The optional markers offset the garter border stitches from the main lace panel as well as dividing the ten-stitch repeats from one another. The first stitch of each row is slipped to create a clean edge.

Pattern
Cast on 36.
Knit first row, placing markers as follows if desired: k3, pm, k10, pm, k10, pm, k10, pm, k3
Knit 5 rows.

Row 1: Sl 1, k2, *yo, k8, k2tog* 3 times, k3
Row 2: Sl 1, k2, *p2tog, p7, yo, p1* 3 times, k3
Row 3: Sl 1, k2, *k2, yo, k6, k2tog* 3 times, k3
Row 4: Sl 1, k2, *p2tog, p5, yo, p3* 3 times, k3
Row 5: Sl 1, k2, *k4, yo, k4, k2tog* 3 times, k3
Row 6: Sl 1, k2, *p2tog, p3, yo, p5* 3 times, k3
Row 7: Sl 1, k2, *k6, yo, k2, k2tog* 3 times, k3
Row 8: Sl 1, k2, *p2tog, p1, yo, p7* 3 times, k3
Row 9: Sl 1, k2, *k8, yo, k2tog* 3 times, k3
Row 10: Sl 1, k2, *yo, p8, p2tog tbl* 3 times, k3
Row 11: Sl 1, k2, *ssk, k7, yo, k1* 3 times, k3
Row 12: Sl 1, k2, *p2, yo, p6, p2tog tbl* 3 times, k3
Row 13: Sl 1, k2, *ssk, k5, yo, k3* 3 times, k3
Row 14: Sl 1, k2, *p4, yo, p4, p2tog tbl* 3 times, k3
Row 15: Sl 1, k2, *ssk, k3, yo, k5* 3 times, k3
Row 16: Sl 1, k2, *p6, yo, p2, p2tog tbl* 3 times, k3
Row 17: Sl 1, k2, *ssk, k1, yo, k7* 3 times, k3
Row 18: Sl 1, k2, *p8, yo, p2tog tbl* 3 times, k3

Repeat rows 1-18 23 times or to desired length.
Knit 6 rows.
Bind off all stitches.

Finishing
Block to desired width, using pins or wires to enhance the wave shape inherent in the pattern. Weave in ends.

Unredirected

2011-09-04T07:17:00.000-07:00

Some people had trouble accessing the site over the last few days due an outdated blogrolling widget. The offending object has been banished and all pages should work now.

I think I will celebrate by swatching for a vest.

Summer of Socks 2011

2011-06-23T07:08:00.001-07:00

Sleepingpolicemenwip, a photo by ShelbyD on Flickr.

Who doesn't love making socks in the summer? Small, portable, perfect for road trips, and not too hot to have on your lap when it's utterly too humid to live.

I'm in the Summer of Socks group on Ravelry again and really enjoy seeing all of the updates from fellow sock knitters. My goal for the next three months is to finish three sock designs, and get at least one of the patterns published.

My summer design inspirations are themed around my spring vacation in Belize. The first pair (in progress before summer started, I'm fast but not that fast) is pictured here. Still need to get through heel and foot on the second sock.

Project Yarnway Collection

2011-02-26T11:15:00.001-08:00

Coll
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

Finally done knitting my five-piece collection for the final challenge of the Project Yarnway game that started at the beginning of last year. I still need to post my final photos on the "runway" thread on Ravelry before Monday. I knit three wraps , a cowl, and a collar, all with cable details. I'll share more photos of the individual items later.

Super Scarf Sunday

2011-02-06T10:29:00.001-08:00

Scarvers yarn
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

Today I'll be doing my part for the 2012 Indianapolis Super Bowl Host Committee Super Scarves project, which is trying to outfit 8,000 Super Bowl 2012 volunteers in handmade scarves. Scarves will be Colts colors of blue and white, and so far they have about 2,300 finished items.

You don't need to be in Indianapolis to make and donate a scarf! For more information, visit www.Our2012SB.com or find the Super Scarves group on Ravelry.

Year end stash 2010

2010-12-31T14:36:00.001-08:00

Stash12302010
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

Now everything fits on the smaller kitchen table. Compared to my stash at the end of last year, this is significantly smaller!

2010 Projects

2010-12-30T06:04:00.000-08:00

I've been knitting for 6 years as of Christmas Day - happy knitaversary to me!

This year, I have finished projects containing 29,151 yards of yarn. I keep track using Knitmeter.com and my Ravelry projects list. The Stash Knit Down group on Ravelry also reminds me to put in totals once in a while.

Here's the stuff finished in 2010, courtesty of Knitmeter. How do I still have yarn??

In roughly reverse order of completion:

Aleatoric Accent balance 1,210 Yards
Dry Sea 80 Yards
Grapes of Math 1,090 Yards
Two Movie Scarf 90 Yards
Burberry Cowl 256 Yards
Tulip Rib Socks 320 Yards
Delft Socks 350 Yards
Squarish Hat 220 Yards
Clare Square 920 Yards
Nancy Drew Shrug 280 Yards
Papa Topper 138 Yards
Succostash 700 Yards
North Face Hat Pink 160 Yards
North Face Hat Purple 100 Yards
Chance Cowl 240 Yards
Camoimetry 110 Yards
Pink Granny Cloth 120 Yards
Ombre Cascade 5,280 Yards
Monster Socks 350 Yards
Tape Towel 142 Yards
Towelly Thing 240 Yards
Oliver Set 75 Yards
Fraternal Socks 400 Yards
Kindy Dress 430 Yards
Linneaus 485 Yards
Little wobble 100 Yards
Garland 380 Yards
Peppermint Stick 350 Yards
Turbulent socks 350 Yards
Wobbly Kudo 160 Yards
Laydee Hat 80 Yards
Ladybug Bib 40 Yards
Grapefruit Sookies 40 Yards
Lido 200 Yards
Alcyone 300 Yards
Index Blanket 1,500 Yards
Xmas practice cloth 40 Yards
Mossy Jacket 250 Yards
Sampler stripe crochet stole 550 Yards
Dog Ugly 840 Yards
Bobo Bebe 185 Yards
Wavy Hat 80 Yards
Modern Babe Blanket 1,000 Yards
Blair 220 Yards
Pink practice cloth 40 Yards
Lindale in Lornas 350 Yards
Pillow case for BH 50 Yards
Spring Picnic Purse 250 Yards
Lindale Lace - Noro 350 Yards
Lindale test - 1 sock 175 Yards
Primaverde socks 375 Yards
Petal Hat 70 Yards
Weaver's Mini Shawl 475 Yards
Bright Ase 360 Yards
Spa Mitt 30 Yards
Melisma III 570 Yards
Sari Moebius 200 Yards
Amused 1,000 Yards
Baby Sophisticate 180 Yards
Muslin Kaweah 250 Yards
Kaweah 300 Yards
Mushishi Ombre blanket 2,425 Yards
Melisma II 530 Yards
Forgot Hat 1 250 Yards
SockwarsV - #1 360 Yards
Rambeau 110 Yards

I have three projects going right now, including two items for my Project Yarnway final collection and a scrap yarn blanket that is hypnotizing me in its simplicity. What else will 2011 bring?

Two Movie Scarf Pattern

2010-12-04T08:59:00.001-08:00

Two movie scarf
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

My four-year-old fell in love with this bulky pink Malabrigo Rasta last week when we stopped at Klose Knit in Illinois on our way home from our Thanksgiving trip to Iowa. I started this scarf for her last night while watching a movie and it was done in time to wear out in the snow this morning. Put in a movie (or two) and crank out some snuggly scarves!

Materials
1skein Malabrigo Rasta, 90 yards (use 2 skeins for an adult size)
Size 11 needles
Large darning needle or crochet hook for weaving in ends

Gauge: 2 stitches per inch

Pattern:
Cast on 12 stitches.
Row 1: slip 1 with yarn in back, *purl 1, knit 1*, repeat from * to last stitch, purl 1
Repeat Row 1 to desired length or until almost out of yarn.
Bind off all stitches loosely in pattern.
Weave in ends.

Turbulent

2010-11-02T15:22:00.001-07:00

Turbulent
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

I improvised these socks back in August while I was on a business trip. They are named after the plane rides to and from the location. I charted out the design on a post-it note, I think.

November?!?!

2010-11-01T18:27:00.000-07:00

Amount of holiday knitting I have done: NONE
Amount of holiday knitting I have planned: NONE
Amount of holiday knitting I have thought about: NONE
Amount of time I have to feel guilty about the above: (Maybe a tiny bit, but pretty much) NONE

Still knitting...

2010-10-23T03:54:00.001-07:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

..bad at blogging. I should probably try to do NaBloPoMo in November just to get back in the habit. I have enough in the Flickr queue from the last few months that it would be pretty quick and easy to get caught up with a short post each day.

I am quite busy with work and family but always have some knitting going. One of my projects on the needles at the moment is the mate to the sock pictured here. It was designed as part of a challenge for Project Yarnway last month and the second sock has been languishing in my knit bag only a third complete. I should get it out and work on it this weekend while I visit with my houseguests - my dad and his wife drove out from Iowa yesterday for some granddaughter cuddles.

I have one other project in progress at the moment, but it's a gift for one of my fans and I don't want to spoil the surprise until it's finished and received.

Reset

2010-07-09T04:26:00.001-07:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

This yarn was too perfect for my Project Yarnway socks. The leg of the sock has a little candy cane pattern on it, precisely the name of this colorway. I coveted it for almost two hours at knit night last night before I finally broke down and resigned myself to starting the socks over again

I also took advantage of starting over to make some adjustments to the cuff and an update to the chart that I'd been considering. I got through the first cuff and one repeat last night after I got home and it looks really cute in the new yarn!

Jul i Juli

2010-07-07T05:41:00.001-07:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

Over the long weekend I finished the pair of socks I was working on, Swirl Socks by Maia D, and was ready to cast on a new project.

I wanted to start another pair of socks, since we have the Stitches and Scones sock retreat this coming weekend. I pulled out the July slip of paper for my personal sock club. I realized that I had already used up the yarn planned for the July socks to design the pattern I made for the sock retreat participants.

Since that idea was a no go, I thought I would try to find another project, maybe something for the July Project Yarnway challenge, which is "Christmas in July" (in Swedish this is "Jul i Juli, " according to another of the Project Yarnway participants). I went down to stand in front of my stash cabinet to see what struck me.

I thought about winding yarn for a sweater, but it's too hot out. I thought about making a scarf for the little one out of the yarn she picked out at the Indiana Handicraft Exchange, but I wasn't sure about the stitch pattern to use. I even thought about just working on the projects I already have going, but that was fleeting.

Finally, my eyes alighted on this skein of Socks that Rock lightweight in the Jingle Rock colorway. Christmas! Socks! I immediately remembered a stitch pattern I had wanted to try and had my idea for Project Yarnway. I have one cuff and leg complete, though I've made an adjustment in the chart that may mean I need to rip back. Since I'm just changing one knit stitch in the repeat to a purl, I might be able to manage it by dropping stitches down and picking them up with a crochet hook. I'm really happy with how they are going so far and hope to have both socks and the pattern completed by the end of the month.

TNNAmazing

2010-06-14T11:37:00.000-07:00

Quick note to say that I had a fabulous time at my first TNNA! We arrived Saturday evening and walked the market all day Sunday. Very inspiring to see all of the yarns, patterns, and fiber artists. I can't wait for the items we ordered to come in to the shop - some really fabulous things that I think people will love.

Sampler Stripe Stole

2010-05-31T08:14:00.001-07:00

Sampler Stripe Stole
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

The Ravelry Project Yarnway challenge for May was to learn a new technique and design a beginner project for that technique. I tried to learn to crochet, and designed a stole worked horizontally. It employs rows of single, half double, double, and treble crochet. Each stripe of color is worked in one stitch type, so the crocheter gets a few hundred chances to practice that stitch while working across the row. I am still working on getting a consistent gauge while crocheting, and would like to tackle some more complex stitches as well.

Two Long

2010-05-23T18:05:00.000-07:00

The shawlette I am working on calls for a 24" size 4 circular needle. I was sure I had one, but it turns out that I do not. My Denise Interchangeable Set only has needle tips down to size 5. I didn't get a chance to go to knit night this last week since we wore ourselves out shopping for a chair after a second grade play on Thursday afternoon, and yesterday we had a houseful of kids for an overnight stay so I couldn't pop up to the LYS then either.

I do, however, have two 16" size 4 circular needles. I recently read a tip on Ravelry about using two circulars for shawls or other large pieces to allow yourself to spread the stitches out and see more of the final shape. Turns out it is also a good fix for having two of the almost right needle and none of the correct one.

As my mental accounting of my needle inventory is obviously flawed, I am organizing them into my new namaste circular needle case. Mine is peacock blue, and I bought it with some Loopy Ewe gift certificates from my Project Runway Ravelry pool win. I also picked up an eggplant buddy case, which is a nice step up from my Altiods tin for my scissors and markers.

On the needles

2010-05-14T19:31:00.000-07:00

I've settled on my comfortable number of works in progress being between 3 and 5. (The eternal scrapghan is excluded from WIP calculation.) Fewer than that and I get bored, more than that and I feel pressured by my hobby. Sometimes I finish up a number of things all at once and get to cast on a bunch of new projects. Here's what I'm working on now:

Test knit shawlette: First up, and what I've been working on tonight, I am testing a lacy shawlette pattern for Christina of ClassicCableKnits (visit her blog for patterns and adorable baby) and so far it is gorgeous. I am using some Pagewood Farms Chugiak in the Mississippi Mud colorway. The yarn is so pretty that looking at it helped to take the sting out of having to tink back a few rows.

May project yarnway entry: I am learning to crochet for this challenge. My piece is about 90% complete. I need to finish up a stripe and weave in ends. More to come when it's finished.

Boheme baby sweater: knitting complete as of last night. Need to weave in ends and sew on buttons.

Back to Basics sock: May socks for personal sock club. I need more practice on toe-up socks so that they can be more automatic. Only about 15% done with the first sock of the pair.

Another ombre blanket: For Greg. I must love him a little bit to make two of these. This version is in Cascade 220.

Next up to cast on is another baby blanket - I sketched out the pattern today, bought yarn last night, and need to swatch.

Lindale Lace Socks

2010-05-02T10:12:00.001-07:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

This sock pattern takes its name from where we were visiting when I designed them. The sock is worked from the top down on double pointed needles and features a vertical eyelet lace pattern and gusset decreases at the top of the stockinette foot. Striping yarn will result in zigzags of color on the leg. Solid colors showcase the unusual gusset decreases.

Pattern has two adult sizes, small and medium. It requires 400-420 yards of fingering weight yarn .

This pattern is available as a free PDF download. Enjoy!

Melisma Shawls

2010-04-28T18:54:00.001-07:00

trio
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

This pattern was introduced as a mystery shawl knitalong at Stitches and Scones in Spring 2010, and is now available for sale. The charted triangular shawl pattern allows the knitter to choose between different options for the main sleeveline lace motif, textured lace panels, and edgings. By varying which options you choose, the charts in this pattern can be used to create 8 different shawls. Both right and wrong side rows are charted.

Materials:
570 yards fingering weight yarn. Optional: 420 yards main color and 150 yards contrast color
14 stitch markers
1 removable stitch marker or safety pin
US size 6 (4.0mm) circular needle, 24 inches or longer
Tapestry needle
Blocking pins or wires

Pattern is charted only and includes some intermediate lace stitches such as various double decreases.

Finished width: 60-65 inches

Pattern is available for $6 USD via Ravelry or

Bag It and Tag It

2010-04-27T10:01:00.001-07:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

I'm having a blast participating in the Project Yarnway group on Ravelry. This is the third monthly challenge - create a bag for a specific client for a specific purpose.

This bag is a tea party/picnic tote. My client, pictured, wanted a bag with ten flowers that could hold books, forks and spoons, puppies, and a kangeroo. My input as the designer was to use 7 flowers and ixnay on the kangeroo, but you can see a book, puppy, and fork/spatula in the photo. Not showing in the pic but also in the bag are two doll bottles and a Hot Wheel. So, generally what you need on hand as a preschooler-about-town.

The bag is made from Manos del Uruguay Wool Clasica (the green) and Cascade Eco+ (the orange), and embellished with more of the Manos and small amounts of other yarns.

Ase

2010-04-13T18:46:00.001-07:00

Ase2
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

This is the back view of my latest pattern, Ase, an asymmetrical wrap. The trapezoid shape highlights striped or handpainted yarns. Though written for worsted/aran weight yarn, it can easily be used with other yarn weights.

The PDF pattern is available for purchase as a Ravelry download for $3 USD.

Stash Flash

2010-04-01T06:40:00.000-07:00

April 1st is Flash Your Stash Day. Maybe because it's foolish to have all this yarn....?

The "downstairs" yarn and my current WIPs arrayed on the dining room table:

Some closer shots of that group:

Wool/worsted:

More worsted, blanket and sock WIPs near the top:

Sport and DK, Sock

Sock!

Lace and Mohair

Fingering scraps and scrapghan WIP. You can also see my sock in progress.

The upstairs yarn didn't get out of the drawers.
Cones and worsted scraps:

Cotton:

Acrylic, novelty, the Professor and Mary Ann:

There has been some turnover since my end of year stash photos, but not a lot. Need to get some of the older stuff out of the way for fresh new yarn!

Babies need blankies

2010-03-28T07:27:00.001-07:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

My brother and his girlfriend are expecting their first baby, and my friend and her husband are also expecting their first baby. Both little ladies are due to debut in August.

Mystery Knitalong

2010-03-05T18:21:00.000-08:00

This weekend, Stitches and Scones is kicking off a mystery-style knitalong of a shawl that I designed. My colleagues at SnS have done a lot of planning and setup work to enable the KAL. Participants are paying $5 and buying their 570 yards of fingering weight yarn at the shop. We will be handing out the first clue Sunday afternoon, and later clues will be distributed via a Yahoo group. I was flattered to be asked to do the design and am really looking forward to getting started. During my last few visits to the shop, it has been fun helping people choose the yarn for their KAL project. I can't wait to see everybody's projects, and hope the knitters enjoy it.

Amusing

2010-03-04T13:16:00.001-08:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

I am late in posting, but I finished my Ravelympic sweater last week, in time to medal in Cable Cross-Country and Sweaterboard Cross.

Modifications: I carried the cable all the way down the piece after the fronts joined. I just continued with the cable pattern rows on those 25 stitches, adding 2 purl stitches just before the cable panel to balance the pattern. I also lengthened the body ribbing by about 2-3 inches. I worked the collar before the sleeves, and adjusted the sleeve length to be just a bit longer.

I'm quite happy with how it turned out. Most of my sweaters to date have not lived up to my hopes for them - this one did!

Ravelympic Update

2010-02-22T11:43:00.000-08:00

Progress on the Amused sweater:

Day 4 - cross-country, skateboard cross, um…NCIS mini-marathon: Joined to work in the round. I continued the cable down the front. Started the lower ribbing.

Day 5 - women’s and men’s pursuit, curling: Tinked back a few rounds to continue the cable even further. Well into the ribbing at the bottom of the body.

Day 6 - halfpipe, women’s downhill crashing: I am adding a few inches to the ribbing of the body; it seemed a bit short to me at the given length.

Day 7 - halfpipe, men’s skating: Finally finished the body ribbing. Started unzipping provisional cast on to set up the collar for picking up stitches, as I plan to do the collar before the sleeves. I think I would prefer to be working back and forth on the collar with less weight on the piece.

Days 8, 9, 10 - ski cross, mass start biathlon, ice prancing, curling, speed skating, et al: Finished the collar. Wove in all ends as of the end of the collar. Started first sleeve on Day 10.

Olympic Amusement

2010-02-15T05:51:00.001-08:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

I am participating in the Ravelympics again this year by attempting to knit a sweater during the Vancouver Games. This photo is my progress as of Sunday night. It isn't true to color - this is a lovely deep teal Dream in Color semisolid. The pattern is Amused, by Jordana Paige.

Progress so far:

Day 1 - opening ceremony: I cast on about 9:09 p.m. and worked up to getting the panels for the front cable joined to the body of the sweater. The yarn is really pretty.

Day 2 - ski jump and speed skating: Progress is somewhat slower than I had hoped. Just like downhill skiing, delays in starting were encountered: errands and laundry were my slush. I am still increasing the yoke and have three cable repeats done on the front panel. The Stitchminder app on my iPhone is proving invaluable as I keep track of multiple row counts and pattern repeats.

Day 3 - moguls, luge, biathlon, pairs skate: I have divided for the sleeves and done about another inch beyond that point. I’m trying to keep my knitting time spaced out with frequent breaks to avoid another bout of tendonitis.

Swatching by Monitor Light

2010-02-11T18:48:00.001-08:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

I just did a quick swatch in preparation for my Ravelympics project, an Amused sweater (pattern by Jordana Paige) in Dream in Color Classy. As best I can tell without actually standing up and turning on the light, I'm getting gauge on the recommended needle size of 9, and I have five skeins of yarn wound up. When the Olympic opening ceremony begins about 23 hours from now, I will be ready.

Recidivist

2010-01-15T16:56:00.000-08:00

Another wave of fibrous crime is about to commence. Patterns for Sock Wars V are being posted in a few minutes, and knitters around the world are waiting with yarn and needles at the ready.

Rambeau Collar

2010-01-08T08:27:00.001-08:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

This cozy, reversible cartridge rib collar is a quick one skein project. I knit the prototype in just a few hours. The suggested yarn has some thick and thin attributes, and I think it would look nice in handspun as well.

Materials
Manos del Uruguay Wool Clasica (100% Wool), 1 skein (100g/138 yards)
16 inch circular needle, US size 10 (6.0mm) or size needed to obtain gauge
Stitch marker
Tapestry needle

Gauge: 3.5 stitches per inch in pattern stitch.

Circumference: 21 inches (Note: To adjust circumference to suit, you can cast on more or fewer stitches in multiples of 4)
Height: 7 inches

Pattern

CO 72.

Place marker to note beginning of round. Join to work in the round, being careful not to twist.

Row 1: *Slip 1 as if to purl with yarn in front, K3*, repeat from * to end of round
Row 2: P1, *slip 1 as if to purl with yarn in back, P3*, repeat from * to last 3 stitches, slip 1 as if to purl with yarn in back, P2

Repeat these 2 rows until piece is 7 inches tall or desired height.

Bind off all stitches. Weave in ends.

Full Stash Disclosure

2009-12-29T17:48:00.000-08:00

Here it is, as of today, all of my yarn. Even the ugly stuff and the scraps.

It all fits (barely) on the dining room table with both of the leaves in. Here are some other views of it. The teal Dream in Color Classy in this shot is planned for my Ravelympics sweater this coming February.

The box lid in front has all of my sock yarn scraps that I've been using for a scrap afghan. It will take me twenty lifetimes at my current rate of knitting on it.

This view from the other end of the table cracks me up, as it looks like the yarn just goes all the way out to the blurry horizon.

To use up some of this lovely yarn, today I set up some personal "club" projects. I chose 11 sock patterns and 10 small project patterns and matched them up with yarn in the stash. I wrote each on little squares of paper and mixed them up in an envelope, similar to the 16 sock patterns I set up for myself in 2009.

It's not too late! I hope.

2009-12-18T13:08:00.000-08:00

I knit some gifts for Christmas this year. They were made for specific people, well ahead of time, and set aside in my knitting cupboard. Last week I even wrapped them. I realized only today that maybe mailing the gifts would be a good idea, seeing as how Christmas is just a few days away. The last two boxes are on the way out right now.

It reminded me of how much I love my Click 'n' Ship account with the US Postal Service. Postage from my printer!! I made a lot of use of during the last Sock Wars. I'm glad I've dusted off the account in advance of Sock Wars V, which is starting up in January. Termiknitter 2!

If, like me, you have inadvertently left a few people's gifts to the last minute, or if you just can't face the post office, consider joining me in sending the electronic joy of an Amazon gift certificate.

Packing up

2009-11-24T19:26:00.000-08:00

Wherever you may be headed this holiday weekend, gentle reader, be safe. The crux of preparing for any trip is deciding what knitting to bring. For our trek to Iowa over the next few days I've settled on the raw materials for a few pairs of socks. Tomorrow there won't be too much daylight to work with, but I expect some general visiting time on Friday and an all day car ride on Saturday. I haven't had Thanksgiving in Iowa for....twenty years? Can't wait to see the family!

Ase

2009-11-23T19:17:00.001-08:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

Several people have had questions about the Aubrey shawl not knitting up to be a symmetrical triangle. Hold on to your handknit socks, symmetry lovers, the next wrap pattern I made (pictured here before sewing of buttons) is a trapezoid. I have the pattern jotted down but not written properly yet.

2009-11-21T17:12:00.000-08:00

Wait a second. Do I seriously have nothing public to knit right now? I'm working on some swatches, but the only project I have going is my forever sock scrap blanket. How did this happen?

Pool Party

2009-11-19T20:02:00.000-08:00

I just won the Project Runway pool in my Ravelry group! Thanks, Irina!!!! I was worried when Neenagaseeah was making her stinky face about all of the black in her collection. Nice to see some knits from more than one designer. Woo-hoo!!

Hi, Alpacas

2009-11-18T19:24:00.001-08:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

Nothing to say, so I'll share this picture from last month of me meeting a few of the alpacas at Whispering Pines farm near Bloomington.

Slacker

2009-11-17T11:59:00.001-08:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

Totally missed two days of blogging. I have been sacking out early the last few nights. Here's the Biscuit, wanting to model her mitten when she saw me taking pictures of Greg's gloves.

Silver Pitcher

2009-11-14T19:43:00.001-08:00

Silver plate pitcher
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

This morning we walked around Main Street with our guests for a while, and stopped into an antiques shop we have not been in before. I was looking for something to hold my straight needles in, rather than having them tucked away in a plastic drawer. I fell hard for this artfully tarnished pitcher, silver plate over copper, for $10. Greg and I are talking about rearranging the office to set up a dedicated knitting area for me, and this will go on my craft table when I have one.

Done Bespeaking

2009-11-13T17:28:00.001-08:00

Bespoke gloves
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

Gloves are finished! I finished knitting last night and wove in the ends this morning while we were out to breakfast with our guests. They are reportedly very warm.

Sebastian Featherstone III

2009-11-12T20:43:00.001-08:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

Ellie had a Family Turkey project this week, in which she was to work with family members to decorate a turkey cutout and come up with an interesting name. This afternoon she colored it, pasted felt onto the stomach, and decorated it with stickers, and I knitted wings and a neck that she helped me to paste on and secure on the pack of the piece with tape. We topped it off with some sunglasses, a button from my stash. Greg and his parents helped us to decide on the name. Ellie says he's wearing the sunglasses because he's from California, like her.

Achtung

2009-11-11T19:37:00.001-08:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

Beware the seven-needled WIP. Do not fold, crush, spindle, or sit upon.

Inbound Inlaws

2009-11-10T19:22:00.000-08:00

Greg is at the airport right now waiting for his mom and her husband to land. They will be here until Saturday afternoon. Greg's taking the rest of the week off and we are keeping the Biscuit home from daycare to get extra spoilage from the grandparents. Ellie will be going to school but she gets out early enough in the day that there is still plenty of time to enjoy the family. I'm taking off Thursday and Friday. Not sure what we're all going to do, but there will most likely be quite a bit of talking/knitting time. Maybe I'll get to finish this second glove.

McGlovin

2009-11-09T19:17:00.000-08:00

After tonight's session of bedtime knitting, I am just past the thumb gusset on the second of Greg's cashmere gloves. Since the first glove took less then a full skein, I am going to have an extra skein of the yarn left over. Not sure what I'll end up doing with it.

I need to dig up some stash to make myself some mittens. Our last few days of nice weather were a momentary respite from the advent of winter chill and I will be the last one in the family to have some hand coverings. I also need to decide pretty soon if there are any more gifts I want to knit for the holidays.

2009-11-08T19:02:00.001-08:00

Can't blog, gotta watch Mad Men. What will happen?

Fastest Knitter in Indiana Contest

2009-11-07T19:12:00.001-08:00

My local yarn store, Stitches and Scones is Westfield, is sponsoring a free, fun contest next week. Their announcement is below:

___________________

"Fastest Knitter in Indiana Contest
at Stitches & Scones

Adult Winner $225 Gift Card

Adult Heat Times:
Tuesday, November 10th at 12 PM
Thursday, November 12th at 6 PM
Saturday, November 14th at 1 PM

Youth Winner $75 Gift Card
Under 18 Youth Heat Times:
Tuesday, November 10th at 4 PM
Thursday, November 12th at 7 PM
Saturday, November 14th at 11 AM

Pre-registration is not necessary, but the first 50 participants to register will receive a commemorative item.There will be one winner for adult and one for youth categories.
Bring size 8 US needle with you and we will provide the yarn. Each heat is 3 minutes and garter stitch will be used.

Join in the fun, call 317-896-4411."

________

It should be really fun, and that is an awesome prize!

Naturally Simple

2009-11-06T19:05:00.001-08:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

This is a partial view of a Simple Yet Effective shawl I recently made from Wisdom Poems Sock.

Sit and Knit

2009-11-05T19:20:00.000-08:00

Since shortly after we moved here in June, Thursday night has been my knitting night out. Greg and the girls hang out for the evening and I get to go up to Stitches and have a few hours to knit and shop and chat with the other knitters. Tonight I took the second glove to work on, but neglected to bring the pattern with me, so after the cuff I had to set it aside in favor of the wrap in progress that was also in my bag. During the course of the evening I was helping someone who has not knitted in a while to start a felted bag and having the long knit rows of the wrap to work on and demonstrate with was helpful as well.

Citrus Palms

2009-11-04T19:29:00.001-08:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

Small hands make for fast mittens. Here is the Biscuit wearing her new handgear this evening. Now to get back to glovemaking.

Lil Mitten

2009-11-03T18:45:00.000-08:00

Started working on B's mittens tonight while putting her to bed. They will mostly match a hat I made her recently. I am holding together a strand of Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock in a yellow-pink colorway and a strand of gold Encore. The Encore is left over from a House Scarf I made for E, which was part of her Hermione Granger Halloween costume last weekend. The hat that goes with these mittens also had a strand of the LL, but was held together with some doubled Alpaca with a Twist Socrates that is pretty much the same color as the Encore. I likely have enough Socrates left to have used that for the mittens, but thought that something washable was a better idea. I should be able to make some good progress while I watch a Netflik with Greg.

Bespoke

2009-11-02T18:45:00.000-08:00

A while back Greg decided that he would like for me to knit him some fine gauge cashmere gloves. He came into the yarn shop one day while I was working and pointed out some light Ecco Cashmere that he thought would make good gloves and kept dropping good-natured hints that were anything but veiled. "So.....where are my gloves?"

I looked all over Ravelry for a men's glove pattern and had some trouble finding something basic, decently manly, that wasn't fingerless and would work in a fine gauge. I ended up buying Ann Budd's Handy Book of Knitting Patterns, which has recipes for several types of basic knitted items in various sizes and gauges, including a glove pattern. The Ecco is laceweight, so I am holding it double to get eight stitches per inch on a size 1 needle. I finished the first glove yesterday and cast on the second this evening. Greg has been getting frequent fittings and is quite pleased.

I hope to finish up the pair soon, so I can get going on some winter gloves for me and some mittens for the Biscuit. The little mittens might sneak into the rotation before the gloves are done. It's getting cold and her teeny fingers don't hold much heat.

Thar She NaBloPoMos

2009-11-01T17:37:00.001-08:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

I enjoyed blogging each day the last time I participated in National Blog Posting Month and thought I would give it another go this year. Not as ambitious as a novel in 30 days, but still fun.

I don't know why, but November tends to sneak up on me. I am aware of Halloween coming up, and getting costumes ready and trick or treating, and then when the next day it's November I am invariably a bit surprised.

Knitting content: The Mochi Plus pictured here is already a skein and change into becoming an asymmetrical wrap. I stopped into the shop on the way back from buying pumpkins with the family last weekend and picked it up to try out an idea. I liked the Mini Mochi quite a bit when I worked with it and wanted to try the heavier weight for this new pattern. So far it is working out well.

Knitting for the Cure - Lynn's Ribbon Socks

2009-10-24T18:35:00.000-07:00

This month I designed a sock pattern in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The twist pattern is inspired by the pink ribbons worn to promote awareness. It is named in memory of one of my college professors.

The pattern is available on Ravelry (Rav link) for $3.oo, and $1 from each sale of the pattern will be donated to cancer research. Buy now from Ravelry.

The sock is constructed from the top down with a heel flap and six gore toe. Any fingering weight sock yarn is suitable. Gauge is 7 stitches per inch in stockinette stitch. The pictured pair was knit from hand-dyed Kraemer Jeannie on size 1.5 needles.

Knit Pink!

UFO sighting

2009-09-27T10:45:00.000-07:00

September has kind of gotten away from me. I set myself some goals for the month in the Ravelry Stash Knit Down group. Also, the shop knitters challenged each other to work on unfinished projects during this month, and I played along. I did have to cast on for a pair of socks yesterday, but I had two good reasons - I was heading to a party and didn't have anything portable, and it is the September pair of my personal sock club. I am making another pair of Waimanalo socks out of some ancient Jawoll jacquard from my stash.

For the UFO/goal progress

I am done with the main section of the shawl design I'm working on and am ready to start knitting on the border. I had to order a third skein of Jitterbug to do the border - it has arrived and is wound and ready.
I knitted a top-down raglan for E with some simple cables along the top of each sleeve and from the underarm to the lower ribbing. It fits her well and will be warm. Her verdict? "Itchy."
I finished the Gryffindor scarf, also for E, which she loves. It will be part of her Halloween costume and also be used for everyday once it gets cold.
I knit more than 10 rows on my sock yarn scrap blanket
I'm on to the second sleeve of my Radiate sweater. I've also woven in most of the ends. Need to finish this so I can cast on for something new AND recover my favorite hat needle that is currently being used for the sleeve. I can't work on it for too long at a stretch or it aggravates my right arm.
One more stash down goal is to start a fall wrap from some Cascade 220 superwash I have left over from the Amelia sweater. The yarn is wound but I haven't started yet. I am making myself finish the knitting on Radiate first. (Buttons don't count.)

I have several planned projects in the pipeline as well, including Amused sweater for me, gloves for Greg, mittens and a Hermione hat to go with E's house scarf. Haven't even thought about Christmas gifts yet. Lalalalala, I can't hear you, approach of Christmas.

Askance Cowl Pattern

2009-08-27T09:14:00.001-07:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

Reversible diagonal ribbing is easy to memorize and shows off hand-painted or variegated yarn. Only requires one skein of something you want to snuggle near your neck.

Materials
Manos del Uruguay Silk Blend (30% silk, 70% Merino Extrafine Wool), 1 skein (150 yards)
16 inch circular needle, size 7 (or size needed to obtain gauge
Stitch marker
Tapestry needle

Gauge: 18 stitches in 4 inches in k3,p3 ribbing. Gauge is not crucial.

Circumference: 24 inches (Note: To adjust circumference to suit, you can cast on more or fewer stiches in multiples of 6)
Height: 6.5 inches

Pattern

CO 108.

Place marker to note beginning of round. Join to work in the round, being careful not to twist.

Work 3 rows k3, p3 ribbing.

Row 1: P1, k3, *p3, k3*, repeat between * to last 2 stitches, p2
Row 2: Repeat row 1
Row 3: P2, k3, *p3, k3* repeat between *to last stitch, p1
Row 4: Repeat row 3
Row 5: *P3, k3*, repeat between *to end of round
Row 6: Repeat row 5
Row 7: K1, p3, *k3,p3*, repeat between * to last 2 stitches, k2
Row 8: Repeat row 7
Row 9: K2, p3, *k3, p3*, repeat between * to last stitch, k1
Row 10: Repeat row 9
Row 11: *K3, p3*, repeat between * to end of round
Row 12: Repeat row 11

Repeat these 12 rows until piece is 6 inches or one half inch shorter than desired height, ending with an even row.

Work 3 rows of the next odd row. For example, if you end the body of the piece at row 6, you would work row 7 three times before binding off.

Bind off all stitches. Weave in ends.

Radiate

2009-08-20T12:38:00.001-07:00

Radiate
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

I've decided that I need to make more sweaters. After all, how many scarfy things and socks does a girl really need? (Answer: More.) And Indiana has a proper winter, unlike Ventura County, where winter means it's a good idea to bring a coat for about seven weeks or so, but if you just have a sweater on it's not like you'll die. So I figure it would be prudent to have some layering options for under my walrus skin parka or whatever I end up wearing in the icy months.

Last night I cast on for a Radiate sweater from Knitty. I'm glad for the finished object photos on Ravelry, because the pictures with the pattern aren't necessarily the best. I bought this yarn, a Berocco cotton blend, with the intention of making a Mr Greenjeans sweater out of it, but I think that pattern would look better in something wooly to have better definition on the cables. I'm also thinking that the Greenjeans may accentuate my shortwaistedness.

It's Thursday again, which means knit night at Stitches and Scones - yay! It's great to have found such a welcoming bunch of knitters. Last Thursday I got there and pulled out my sock in progress only to discover that I was missing a dpn. It later turned up, broken, in the garage. Must have dropped it on the way out. The other project in my bag was on 14 inch needles, which is is a little awkward while sitting close to others. I had been reading on Ravelry about working socks on one small circular needle and thought I'd give it a shot. I bought a size 1 Hiya Hiya 9 inch needle and transferred the sock to it. It's tiny! It took me a few inches before I stopped feeling like I had giganto hands. I used dpns for working the heel and picking up the gusset stitches, as well as for the last few rows of the toe. It's nice not having to change needles as I'm working around the sock. I did realize how much I used the dpns for knowing where I am, though, like decreasing for the gusset stitches one stitch away from the end of the needle. When there's no end of the needle, the autopilot hiccups a bit. Using the circular also gave me a chance to try out some recently purchased pretty little stitch markers for small needles. I'm on to the second sock of the pair and am continuing the single small circular experiment.

That Girl is Poison(ed)

2009-08-12T16:07:00.000-07:00

I never want to work in the yard again. The one time I get ambitious and do a bit of pruning, I also manage to find the poison ivy lurking in the greenbelt. Since I'd never had it before, it took about a week for me to start breaking out, but it turns out that I am a delicate flower when it comes to poison ivy. A pudgy, cranky, delicate flower. I had blisters all over, one completely raw shoulder, and developed a charming little skin infection. My right arm swelled up such that I couldn't knit for four days. Even though I am now much better, my arms still look like I lost a fight with a badger.

I've got the beginnings of a sock to prove I'm on the mend. It's the August selection from my personal sock club. The pattern is Sunshine Socks and I'm using some KnitPicks Bare that I dyed a while back. I charted out the pattern for myself to make it easier to keep on track.

Fairly Busy

2009-07-26T11:13:00.000-07:00

I thought I would jump right in to being a Hoosier and enter some knitting in the upcoming State Fair. I don't expect to win anything but had a great time entering the Ventura County fair last year.Next weekend is the time to take in entries, and I've been working on several projects for the categories I am enrolled in.

The Eleanor socks I knit as the July pair for my personal sock club are my entry for Adult Accessory. The yarn is Knit Picks Bare that I dyed during my first attempt at hand-dyeing.

For Child Accessory, I made a mistake rib scarf, from Last Minute Knitted Gifts, for the Biscuit to wear this winter and added a corkscrew fringe.

I am done with knitting another Cabin Carry as a Felted Purse entry, but haven't felted it yet.

I am totally thrilled with how my Aubrey shawl came out (see previous post for pattern and more photos) and it will be my entry for Shawl/Scarf.

I also signed up for Adult Sweater - One Color, and knit an Amelia in some cream Cascade 220 Superwash. I just sewed the buttons on this afternoon. However, I cocked up the neckline something fierce and the fit is otherwise disastrous on me. It is currently stuffed into a bag in my room until it either mends its non-flattering ways or I think of someone else to give it to. Plan B is to enter my February Lady Sweater, shown here in a lovely ladies room shot.

Not all of my recent knitting has been for the fair. Friday evening I finished this baby gift for a co-worker of Greg's. The hat is Little Pumpkin from Itty Bitty Hats and the sockies are something I ginned up on the fly to go with.

And sometimes I do thing other than knit and work and care for my young. After the morning thunderstorms cleared up yesterday and we were back from running errands it was a lovely breezy day outside. There is a dead tree of some kind, let's call it an Indiana Thornbush, in the greenbelt behind our house, and I went after about half of it with a handsaw and lack of common sense. I had a good time pulling out branches and snapping off twigs and said "C'mon, you son of a bitch" more than is probably ladylike.

Aubrey Shawl Pattern

2009-07-22T18:18:00.000-07:00

A simple lace shawl, worked from side to side. Pattern is written for fingering weight yarn but can also be used with other yarn weights. Use a needle several sizes larger than called for on the ball band.

Materials
Crystal Palace Yarns Mini Mochi (195 yd/skein), 2 skeins
Size 10.5 straight or circular needles
Tapestry needle
Coil-less safety pin or removable stitch marker (optional)

Gauge: not critical

Abbreviations
yo – yarn over
kfb – knit into front and back of stitch
k2tog – knit two together

Pattern Notes
This stitch pattern is based on garter stitch and will be very stretchy from side to side.

After a few rows have been completed, you may wish to place a coil-less safety pin or removable stitch marker to indicate the right side of the work. I usually place a colored elastic on the end of one of my needles – when I’m working with the marked needle, I’m on a right side row.

If possible, join new balls of yarn at the beginning of a WS row to facilitate weaving in of ends.

Pattern

Cast on 2.

Work increase section as follows:
Row 1 (RS): Knit to last stitch, kfb
Row 2 (WS): Knit
Row 3 (RS): *yo, k2tog* to last stitch, kfb
Row 4 (WS): Knit

Repeat these four rows 38 times or until shawl is half of desired width, ending with Row 4. (Note: If you are using two equally sized balls of yarn, do not wait until the first ball runs out to work the center rows. Give yourself some wiggle room and work the center before half of your yarn is gone.)

Work center rows one time:
Row 1 (RS): Knit
Row 2 (WS): Knit

Work decrease section as follows:
Row 1 (RS): *yo, k2tog* to last 2 stitches, k2tog
Row 2 (WS): Knit
Row 3 (RS): Knit to last 2 stitches, k2tog
Row 4 (WS): Knit

Repeat these four rows until 2 stitches remain. Knit last two stitches together. Break yarn and draw through last stitch. Weave in ends. Block, if desired, to even out triangular shape.

Quick note

2009-06-26T04:52:00.000-07:00

Fear me.

In other news - new house, new job, new state, etc. all going swimmingly so far.

Ob-la-di, Ob-la-da

2009-06-11T11:17:00.000-07:00

My life goes on in Sock Wars IV for the time being, though I was the first warrior to end it for three others. I am waiting for socks in progress to arrive and crossing my fingers that they will be here in time for me to knit them on the plane this weekend.

My thoughts and best wishes are with my friends and co-workers who have experienced changes in their employment situations over the past few days, both good and bad, expected and out of the blue. Good luck, everybody.

Transit

2009-06-09T12:59:00.001-07:00

transit
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

This is an image Greg sent me today, of things getting loaded into the moving truck. (Knitting related content: the white topped plastic containers in the middle contain some of my yarn.)

My third Sock Wars target emailed me yesterday to confirm receipt of her socks - Termiknitter strikes again! She is planning to mail her Barcelonas in progress today, which would mean they should arrive by Friday, the last day I'll be able to get mail in California. My assassin has both addresses, too, but I'm hoping the only socks I get in the mail this week are for me to knit, not wear.

While I'm waiting for socks in progress, I am knitting some....socks. They're just such good travel projects. My June personal sock club socks are being made from some stashed Knit Picks Essential Tweed yarn in the Inca Gold colorway. I'm using the Traveling Vine pattern from More Sensational Knitted Socks for the leg and keeping a plain stockinette foot. I'm about 60% with the first one. I have two more skeins of sock yarn in my suitcase in case I finish this pair before we are unpacked at our new home.

What Will Stay

2009-06-07T13:43:00.000-07:00

The movers will be here in the morning to begin packing us up. This weekend we have packed suitcases for the next two weeks, taken the last few pictures from the walls, and set aside some books and toys for the girls to have with them. This afternoon I am picking up keys to the hotel room we will stay in starting tomorrow night.

All of our things will end up with us in Indiana at some point, but as I look around I think about what can't be packed away. The window I watched the unexpected August rain through on the morning Bea was born. The sink where I rinsed off Ellie's lost teeth and scraped knees. The backyard stump of the ash tree that toppled over on to the house last January. The path in the floor that I paced with an unhappy baby, singing Christmas carols. The trees that we planted, the garden walls, the grape vines just now growing their first fruit.

Stop me before I knit again

2009-06-02T14:38:00.000-07:00

I have a second Sock Wars kill under my belt. The late, lamented knitaroundgirl was very quick in sending her socks in progress, because Greg just called from home to let me know that they've arrived. My initial assassin, Lunalover, met her socky death yesterday, so I hope I can get this pair of Barcelonas out the door and score three kills before my inevitable destiny unfolds.

In relo news, I have a new job waiting for me in Indy! I will start the same day Greg does, June 19th. We've approved an offer on the house we're selling in Simi, all things are moving along nicely for our new home in Carmel (knock wood), plane tickets for me and the girls are in hand, day care for the kids is getting lined up, the movers come on Monday, and on and on. It's been quite the whirlwind.

Take Cover

2009-05-22T15:18:00.000-07:00

My first Sock Wars kill is confirmed!

Places I worked on that pair of socks:

My desk at work (cast on over lunch on Friday)
Home - also frogged back an inch, grr
LAX terminal
30,000 feet above the American Southwest
The monorail (monorail, monorail, jazz hands) at the Dallas Airport
Dallas Airport terminal
28,000 feet above middle America
Rental car
Our hotel room
Rock Bottom Brewery in downtown Indianapolis
UA theater in Indy
Backseat of tour guides car as we tooled around Indy area - also frogged back an inch here because I was paying attention to the tour and not my sock
Backseat of real estate agent's car
Greek restaurant somewhere in Indy
Office of our real estate agent - finished the toe as we were drafting an offer on a house. He let me have a 2-day FedEx envelope and I sent it out from there on Monday afternoon!

On like a prawn that yawns at dawn

2009-05-15T08:50:00.001-07:00

Let the Sock Wars begin!

Ready... Aim....Fiber!

2009-05-14T20:56:00.001-07:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

The pattern for Sock Wars IV will be released in about 12 hours. I just tested my gauge in my chosen yarn and it's spot on using my favorite 1.5 size needles. I'm excited but don't expect to last too long with everything else going on. My assassin manages a LYS so is probably able to knit at work, whereas I am not. Maybe the vagaries of the postal system will help me out.

The sock pictured is one of a pair of Groovy Socks I made as a warmup to the Sock Wars battle. As of dinnertime tonight they are all done. The leg is a teensy bit loose on me but I plan to give these to my Mom as one of her Mother's Day/thanks for babysitting gift. Greg is picking her up in the morning and she'll be staying here with the girls while we are in Indianapolis.

Sold Out

2009-05-10T21:51:00.000-07:00

First of all, Happy Mothers Day!

Yesterday morning we had a garage sale to get rid of some things we don't want, don't need, don't fit, or can't move. We cleared over $400 - yay! We sold lots of outgrown kid clothes, some housewares, books, a bunch of computer equipment, potted plants (movers won't move them), toys, furniture....general stuff. We also gave away the firewood in the side yard, the remnants of the ash tree from the backyard that fell over a year ago. Thanks for the new roof, ash tree, it's a selling point in our favor. It was fun but exhausting.

I met a knitter from the neighborhood during the sale and we had a nice sock chat. She even showed me her socks in progress, made from the same type of yarn I'm planning to use for my Sock Wars pair. Speaking of Sock Wars, I received the dossier of my target this evening. My target has size 10 feet - ack! I wound my yarn into center pull balls so it's all ready to go on Friday. I'm almost to the heel of the second sock of my warmup pair but can put an unfinished sock on scrap yarn if I don't finish it by the end of the week and need to free up my 1.5s. Fear my pointy needles, Bond Jane Bond!

Target Practice

2009-05-07T22:52:00.000-07:00

In preparation for Sock Wars IV, I'm working on a pair of Groovy Socks in Trekking XXL. This is my first assassin-style knitting competition, and it should be fun. We've planned our home search visit to Indiana for the weekend of May 16th, which just happens to be the day after the Sock Wars pattern is released. So, I should be able to make good use of several hours of airplane time to work on my socks. I'm expecting to receive the dossier of my target in a day or two.

I'm giving my arms a rest tonight and catching up on some recorded TV while my husband and his sister are at the Star Wars movie. She came into town today to spend a few days with us before we move, help us with Saturday's garage sale, and to go to a Shins concert with Greg on Sunday night. The girls were a giggly mess playing with her after dinner - they really enjoyed spending time with Sarah when we were in Hawaii in January and are quite excited to be with her again.

There has been a steady stream of agents, inspectors and appraisers through the house over the last few days, but Greg's been orchestrating all of it during the day while I'm at work. I think tomorrow someone from the moving company is coming in to assess how much crap we have - sorry about all the books, moving people!

Whither thou goest...

2009-05-03T19:06:00.000-07:00

Gee, it's been a while since I had a non-pattern post.

My husband has recently accepted a job offer in Indiana, so our family is getting ready to relocate next month. One of the first things I did was arrange and consolidate my yarn stash, which really has shrunk quite a bit over the last year. It fits comfortably into four Sterilite drawers.

I was born in Iowa and lived there until I was 12, and spent most summers there through high school, but it's been twenty years since I've been through a Midwestern winter. I've become quite accustomed to the mild California climate. We'll have a lot more use for handknits when there's actual cold weather.

There's so much to do it's better not to think about it all at once. We've been clearing out closets and getting ready to have a monster garage sale next weekend. We're talking with the relocation company tomorrow to discuss the timing of getting an appraisal on the house, making a trip to Indianapolis to find somewhere to live, and moving. I gave notice at my job late last week - my last day will be in early June. Once we get there, I need to find a job, and I haven't interviewed outside my current company for 11 years. Then there's day care for the kids, getting E enrolled in school, and learning everything we need to know about a new city.

All in all, it's an exciting change for us. I've always told people that the Midwest is a nice place to be from.

Seamless Spa Mitt

2009-04-07T18:52:00.000-07:00

What to do with those little balls of cotton left over from making dishcloths? This spa mitt only takes about one ounce of dishcloth cotton. I’ve made gift sets with a matching facecloth and spa mitt from a single skein. It is knit in the round on double-pointed needles and requires no seaming. It looks small as you’re making it, but the ribbing will stretch quite a bit. It should fit snugly enough not to fall off the hand when wet.

Materials
Size 8 double-pointed needles, set of 4
Tapestry needle

Yarn: Sugar ‘n’ Cream cotton (about 1 oz, 30-40 yards)

Gauge: 5 stitches per inch in K2 , P2 ribbing, unstretched

Pattern
Cast on 28. Join to work in the round. Arrange stitches on three needles as follows:

Needle 1: 8
Needle 2: 8
Needle 3: 12

Work K2 , P2 ribbing across all stitches for 11 rounds.

At the end of the 11th round, when you have worked all of the stitches on Needle 3, turn the work. At this point you will back and forth on the dpns, which leaves a gap on one side for the thumbhole. Beginning with a WS row, work 9 rows of K2 , P2 ribbing across all 28 stitches. Remember to turn the work at the end of each row to work back and forth.

On the next row, which is a RS row, work K2 ,p2 ribbing across all 28 stitches. When you reach the end of Needle 3, join to work in the round again. Work K2 , P2 ribbing for 22 rounds or until desired length.

Finishing

Turn work inside out. Slip the first two stitches of Needle 2 to Needle 1. Slip remaining stitches from Needle 2 to Needle 3. You should have two needles with 14 stitches on each. Bind off all stitches using three needle bindoff. Break yarn. Weave in ends.

Waimanalo Sock Pattern

2009-02-15T16:05:00.000-08:00

This sock is constructed from the top down with a short row heel and toe. The marine color palette and gentle wave pattern remind me of an evening in Waimanalo Bay. I need to get better photos - these are rainy day cell phone pictures.

Materials

Needles: Set of 4 doublepointed needles, size 1.5 (or size needed to obtain gauge)
Tapestry needle

Yarn: Misti International Hand Paint Fingering, colorway Marina, 1 skein (437 yards)
Gauge: 7 stitches per inch in stockinette stitch

Size: Women’s medium

Pattern notes

Wave pattern:
Row 1 and 2: Knit
Row 3: *K2tog 3 times, (yo, k1) 6 times, K2tog 3 times*, repeat from *
Row 4: Purl
Row 5: Knit
Row 6: Purl

Cuff

Using long tail cast on, cast on 54 stitches. Join to work in the round, taking care not to twist stitches. Arrange on three double-pointed needles as follows:

Needle 1: 18 stitches

Needle 2: 18 stitches

Needle 3: 18 stitches

Beginning with a knit row, knit 8 rounds of garter stitch (one row knit, one row purl). If a longer cuff is desired, add additional garter stitch rounds, ending with a purl row.

Leg

Work wave pattern 9 times or to desired length of leg, ending with row 2.

Heel
To set up for the heel, unknit the last four stitches of the previous round and place these unworked stitches on Needle 1. Next, slip the first four stitches on Needle 2 to Needle 1. The heel will be worked on the stitches on Needles 2 and 3.

Begin by unknitting the last stitch on Needle 3, and place on free needle. Wrap that stitch and turn the work.

Row 1 (WS): Purl to last stitch. Wrap and turn.

Row 2 (RS): Knit to stitch before wrapped stitch. Wrap and turn.

Row 3: Purl to stitch before wrapped stitch. Wrap and turn.

Repeat Rows 2 and 3 until there are 10 stitches unworked in the center of the row.

Row 4: Knit to first wrapped stitch. Wrap and turn. (This stitch will now have two wraps.)

Row 5: Purl to first wrapped stitch. Wrap and turn. (This stitch will now have two wraps.)

Row 6: Knit to double-wrapped stitch. Wrap and turn.

Row 7: Purl to double-wrapped stitch. Wrap and turn.

Continue in this manner until all stitches have been worked.

Foot

The wave lace pattern continues down the center of the instep. Each round of the foot is worked as follows:

Needle 1: K4, work next row of wave pattern (18 stitches), K4
Needle 2: Knit
Needle 3: Knit

Work 8 repeats of the wave pattern or until foot is 2 inches shorted than desired length, ending with Row 2.

Toe
Toe is worked on the stitches on Needles 2 and 3. Begin by unknitting the last stitch on Needle 3, and place on free needle. Wrap that stitch and turn the work.

Row 1 (WS): Purl to last stitch. Wrap and turn.

Row 2 (RS): Knit to stitch before wrapped stitch. Wrap and turn.

Row 3: Purl to stitch before wrapped stitch. Wrap and turn.

Repeat Rows 2 and 3 until there are 10 stitches unworked in the center of the row.

Row 4: Knit to first wrapped stitch. Wrap and turn. (This stitch will now have two wraps.)

Row 5: Purl to first wrapped stitch. Wrap and turn. (This stitch will now have two wraps.)

Row 6: Knit to double-wrapped stitch. Wrap and turn.

Row 7: Purl to double-wrapped stitch. Wrap and turn.

Continue in this manner until all stitches have been worked.

Finishing

Turn sock inside out. Slip stitches from Needle 3 to Needle 2. Use three needle bindoff to join stitches on needles 2 and 1. Break yarn. Weave in ends.

Unwinding with Ravelry

2009-01-17T14:25:00.001-08:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

This past Thursday evening I braved the traffic and the misplaced enjoying-myself-on-a-schoolnight guilt and attended a Ravelry event at Unwind in Burbank. The place was packed with knitters, decked out in their knits, browsing and buying and chatting and in general having a lovely time.

A door prize ticket was offered in return for food pantry donations, and I actually won a pair of books! I met some local and semi-local knitters, saw some beautiful projects, and had a chance to chat with Mary-Heather (the weather, for I am lame) and Casey (iPhones and software). The staff at Unwind were very welcoming and good-humored and remarkably chill about the half-chaotic crush of people.

I went in to the store pre-allowing myself to buy yarn for a pair of socks and a Tempting sweater, and left with two skeins of KPPM and seven of Tahki Torino. I started the Tempting this morning and am about 4 inches into the body. It would be nice to finish it in time to take to Hawaii next weekend (!), but I know it's probably a stretch.

Simply Lovely

2008-10-26T14:56:00.001-07:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

This pattern, the Simple Yet Effective Shawl pattern by Laura Chau, is as easy as the name suggests. I'm very happy with this finished object, made from a single skein of Noro Silk Garden Sock yarn.

February Lady Sweater

2008-10-17T11:07:00.001-07:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

I love this new sweater! I finished knitting the second sleeve last night and sewed on some vintage buttons I dug up from my button stash. I would have gone for new buttons last weekend, but for the global economic collapse making me think that maybe I could look at the buttons I already have.

Cabin Carry - Felted Bag Pattern

2008-09-25T22:39:00.000-07:00

The slow color changes of this yarn and the log cabin construction technique contribute interest to the final look of this felted tote. The bag is constructed by knitting two log cabin squares from self-striping yarn and joining them together while creating the sides, bottom, and strap of the bag. There is no seaming and minimal finishing required.

Materials

Needle size: US 10½ / 6.5 mm (or size needed to obtain gauge)

Yarn: Noro Kureyon , colorway 150, 5 skeins (550 yards)

Tapestry Needle
Stitch markers
Safety pin or removable stitch marker

Gauge: 3.5 stitches per inch in garter stitch, prior to felting

Dimensions: about 18” by 16”, plus strap, prior to feltin

Front and Back (make 2)

Cast on 12. Knit 10 garter ridges (20 rows). *Bind off on right side, keeping last stitch on right needle. Rotate 90 degrees clockwise. With right side facing you, pick up one stitch for each garter ridge or bound off stitch. Knit 5 garter ridges.* Repeat from * 11 times, ending with 13 blocks total (center square surrounded by 12 additional blocks). Bind off all stitches on right side.

Strap and sides

At this point you will be joining the front and back pieces together while creating the sides and bottom of the bag. This is accomplished by picking up stitches from the front and back pieces at the end of each row of the side piece and knitting them together with the side stitches. This might be a little awkward for the first inch or two, but very soon the side of the bag will have enough structure to make it easier to handle. The sides of the bag widen slightly toward the bottom.

Setup row: Arrange front and back pieces with wrong sides together. With right side facing, pick up one stitch in corner of front piece (as if you were going to begin another log cabin strip). Using backward loop method, cast on 2, place marker, cast on 1, place marker, cast on 3. Pick up one stitch from corner of back piece. Turn.

Side Row: Knit first two stitches together (picked up stitch from previous row and first strap piece). Knit to end. Pick up one stitch from the next garter ridge or bound off stitch at the edge of the adjacent front/back piece.

Repeat side row 10 times.

Increase row: Knit first two stitches together (picked up stitch from previous row and first strap piece). Knit to stitch before first marker, kfb, k1, kfb. Knit to end. Pick up one stitch from the next garter ridge or bound off stitch at the edge of the adjacent front/back piece.

Repeat side row 15 times.
Repeat increase row.
Repeat side row 19 times.
Repeat increase row.
Repeat side row 19 times.
Repeat increase row. This is the last increase row. To mark the point on the opposite side of the body of the bag where decreases need to begin, trace a straight line across the work to the opposite edge and place a safety pin or removable marker at that spot.

Work side rows for the remainder of the side of the bag. When you reach the corner of the piece, just keep going - continue around the corner by picking up the first garter ridge/bound off stitch from the bottom edge. Continue side row for the bottom of the bag and second side of the piece until you reach your pin/removable marker.

Decrease row: Knit first two stitches together (picked up stitch from previous row and first strap piece). Knit to stitch before first marker, ssk, k1, k2tog. Knit to end. Pick up one stitch from the next garter ridge or bound off stitch at the edge of the adjacent front/back piece.

Repeat side row 19 times.
Repeat decrease row.
Repeat side row 19 times.
Repeat decrease row.
Repeat side row 15 times.
Repeat decrease row.

Work side row for the remainder of this side of the bag, which should be about 11 rows.

When you reach the top corner of the piece, knit back and forth on the remaining 7 stitches until strap is about 28 inches long. Bind off all stitches.

Finishing

Sew strap end to cast on row of side. Weave in ends. The felting process is pretty forgiving here, so don’t sweat imperfect finishing, but make sure that all ends are secure enough not to unravel during felting.

Felt. There are many, many felting tips and tutorials online. I usually toss my item in a pillowcase or laundry bag and put it through a short hot wash with a bit of detergent and a few pairs of jeans, checking it frequently and stopping before the spin cycle.

Block to the shape you want and allow to dry completely.

Sock Put - Gold!

2008-08-21T23:26:00.001-07:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

Just finished these Spring Forward socks, my third pair for the 2008 Ravelympics. This yarn is Kraemer Jeannie that I dyed earlier this year.

Time for a victory lap! Or bed. Probably bed.

Sock Put - Silver

2008-08-15T12:45:00.001-07:00

Grandiflora
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

Grandiflora socks in Knit Picks Bare that I dyed earlier this year. Not the best photo, but still - finished! My gold medal pair was cast on immediately afterwards. Two Spring Forward socks stand between me and the Ravelympic finish line, but I'm confident that I'll make some good progress over the weekend.

Sock Put - Bronze

2008-08-13T09:48:00.001-07:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

My first pair of socks for the Ravelympic sock put was a pair of Thuja socks for my husband. Started on 8/8 and finished on 8/10. These were nice and quick due to the sixe 7 needles and worsted weight yarn.

Since I have three pairs planned, I've decided to score myself as follows: One pair - Bronze, Two pairs - SIlver, Three pairs - Gold

I am one sock into my second pair, Grandiflora, which is going slower since I'm down to size 1 needles and fingering yarn.

Swim Lane Sock Pattern

2008-07-24T15:38:00.000-07:00

It’s almost time for the Summer Olympics! Rings of reverse stockinette “float” between wider lanes of stockinette stitch along the leg of this sock. Pattern is written with five rings to echo the Olympic emblem and create a shorter summertime sock, but you could continue the leg pattern to any length. This sock is constructed from the top down with a ribbed cuff and heel flap and could easily be adapted to toe up if that is your preferred method.

Materials

Needles: Set of 4 doublepointed needles, size 2 (or size needed to obtain gauge)
Tapestry needle

Yarn: Any sock/fingering weight yarn will work for this pattern. Sample shown uses Collinette Jitterbug, 1 skein (about 320 yards)

Gauge: 7 stitches per inch in stockinette stitch

Size: Women’s medium

Cuff

Using long tail cast on, cast on 56 stitches. Join to work in the round, taking care not to twist stitches. Tail from cast on will serve as a marker for the beginning of the round. Arrange on three double-pointed needles as follows:

Needle 1: 14 stitches
Needle 2: 14 stitches
Needle 3: 28 stitches

Work K1, P1 ribbing for 10 rounds (or desired cuff length).

Leg

Swim Lane Sequence is worked over 6 rows.
Rows 1-4: Knit
Rows 5-6: Purl

Work Rows 1-6 five times (or to ½ inch shorter than desired length of leg). Work Rows 1-4 once more.

Heel

Heel flap is worked back and forth on the 28 stitches on Needle 3. The stitches on Needles 1 and 2 form the instep and will rest while the heel is fashioned.

Turn the work to begin working the heel on the wrong side of needle 3.

Row 1 (WS): Slip 1 purlwise with yarn in front, purl to end of row
Row 2 (RS): *Slip 1 purlwise with yarn in back, K1*, repeat to end of row

Repeat these two rows a total of 14 times. Repeat Row 1 once more.

Heel turn begins on the right side of the work and incorporates short rows to form the three-dimensional heel.
Row 1 (RS): Slip 1, K14, ssk, K1, turn.

Row 2 (WS): Slip 1, P3, P2tog, P1, turn.

Note the gap that is evident between the unworked stitches on the needle and the last worked stitch in the short rows.

Row 3 (RS): Slip 1, K to one stitch before the gap, ssk, K1, turn.

Row 4 (WS): Slip 1, P to one stitch before the gap, p2tog, p1, turn.

Repeat Rows 3 and 4 until all heel stitches have been worked. Knit across all stitches.

Gusset and Foot

Rearrange stitches as follows. Slip half of the heel stitches from Needle 1 to free needle. Slip instep stitches from Needle 3 to Needle 2. Needle 2 now has 28 stitches.

Beginning with Needle 1, which has half of the heel stitches, pick up 14 stitches along the heel flap. Work across Needle 2 in stockinette stitch. With a free needle, pick up 14 stitches along the heel flap and knit across the remaining heel stitches.

Needle 1 now holds half of the foot stitches, Needle 2 has the instep stitches, and Needle 3 holds the other half of the foot stitches. Beginning of round is at center bottom of foot.

Gusset Row 1: Knit to last three stitches on Needle 1, K2tog, K1. Knit across Needle 2. K1, ssk, knit to end of Needle 3.

Gusset Row 2: Work even.

Repeat these two rows until there are 14 stitches each on Needles 1 and 3.

Work even until foot is 1.5 inches shorter than desired length.

Toe

Toe Row 1: Knit to last three stitches on Needle 1, K2tog, K1. K1, ssk, knit to last 3 stitches on Needle 2, K2tog, K1. K1, ssk, knit to end of Needle 3.

Toe Row 2: Work even.

Repeat these two rows until there are 16 stitches remaining. Knit stitches on Needle 1 to bring yarn to side of toe for finishing.

Finishing

Slip stitches from Needle 3 to Needle 1. Use kitchener stitch to join toe stitches together. Break yarn. Weave in ends

OR
Turn sock inside out. Slip stitches from Needle 3 to Needle 1. Use three needle bindoff to join stitches on needles 1 and 2. Break yarn. Weave in ends.

Flower cardigan

2008-07-15T11:09:00.001-07:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

How cute is this pattern? It is from Itty Bitty Nursery, by Susan Anderson. I made this from some stashed Zara yarn and did the embellishments out of leftover Rowan Wool Cotton and Koigu.

All's Fair

2008-07-07T14:31:00.001-07:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

I have been knitting County Fair entries like crazy. It's a fun use of my vacation time. Today I finished a baby hat and bib, and I also have a hat and scarf set (hat is pictured), baby booties, and a pair of socks ready. I am considering entering a scarf and a sweater previously completed, and have a baby sweater that I want to tackle next.

WIPs like coffee

2008-06-20T12:14:00.001-07:00

WIPs like coffee
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

And so do I. Iced and blended, considering it will top 100 again today. Blergh. This afternoon I will take advantage of the air conditioning at the theater when I take Pumpkin to see Kung Fu Panda. I will be bringing the other half of the pictured WIP (a bag I am designing) to the movies.

Tonight at 9:01(12:01 Eastern), the Summer of Socks begins! I'm getting my ball winder out right now to get some yarn cakes ready. I'm planning some purless Monkeys for my first pair.

Ah, vacation

2008-06-18T15:16:00.001-07:00

Ah, vacation
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

Today is the first day of a mini-sabbatical - I am off work until July 14th. Since there wasn't much chance to take time off over the last few years, I have a bit of a surplus of paid time off. I am tacking on a bit of time before and after the corporate week-long holiday to enjoy a nice long break. More crazy work times are coming up, and I really like my job, but for the next three and a half weeks I am gleefully out of the office.

Pictured WIP: Seamless Saarjte's Booties

Violet Dress Pattern

2008-06-12T15:56:00.000-07:00

This seamless dress is worked from the top down, with garter stitch straps and hem, and decorative eyelet increases at the center front and back.

Size: 2T

Materials:
Berroco Comfort DK (50 grams,178 yards), 3 skeins (about 450 yards)
16” circular needle, size 8 (or size needed to obtain gauge)
24” circular needle, size 8 (or size needed to obtain gauge)
8 stitch markers

Gauge: 22 stitches = 4 inches in stockinette stitch

Pattern notes:
PM – place marker
Kfb – knit into front and back of next stitch
M1 – with the tip of your right needle, knit the bar in between the last stitch on your right needle and the first stitch on the left needle. This increases one stitch and leaves a decorative eyelet.
SlM – slip marker
K – Knit
BO – Bind off

Pattern:

Neck and straps are worked in the round, in garter stitch.
Cast on 80 stitches to shorter circular needle. Join to work in the round, placing marker to note beginning of round.

Round 1 and all odd rows: Purl
Round 2: Knit
Round 4: *K19, kfb*, repeat 3 times
Round 6: Knit
Round 8: K9, *kfb, k20* three times, kfb, K10
Round 10: Remove marker. BO 12, k32, BO 12, k32

You have divided the work to form the straps and have active stitches for the front and back pieces.

Front: At this point you will work back and forth. Turn the work to begin on a wrong side row.

Row 1 (WS): Purl across (32 stitches)
Row 2 (RS): K16, place marker, K16
Row 3: Purl
Row 4: Knit
Row 5: Purl
Row 6: Knit to one stitch before marker, M1, K1, SlM, K1, M1, knit to end of row
Row 7: Purl

Repeat Rows 6 and 7 nine times more. Do not bind off. Break yarn, leaving an 8 inch tail. Front stitches will rest while back is worked.

Back: Attach yarn to the WS side of the back piece and work as for front. Do not break yarn.

At this point you will rejoin the pieces as follows: On the next right side row, knit across back stitches, PM to mark underarm, then knit across the resting front stitches. PM to denote beginning of round, and join underarm by knitting the next stitch.

The rest of the piece will be worked in the round. Work in stockinette stitch, knitting every round, until piece measures 2 inches from underarm or desired length of bodice.

Skirt: At this point you should have markers in the center of the front and back, and at the center of each underarm. Place additional markers to note skirt increase points at the center point in between the existing markers as follows. *SlM, k13, PM, knit to next marker*, repeat to end of round.

You should end up with 8 equidistant markers around the skirt. You will be increasing before and after each marker.

Round 1: SlM, *kfb, knit to last stitch before marker, kfb, SlM*, repeat to end of round
Round 2-6: Knit

Repeat rounds 1-6 eight times more, switching to longer circular needle when required to hold larger number of stitches. At this point, you can remove increase point and center point markers if desired, leaving beginning of round marker in place. Continue in stockinette stitch until skirt is 11 inches from beginning of increase round, or 1 inch shorted than desired length.

Work garter stitch hem as follows:

Round 1,3,5,7,9: Purl
Round 2,4,6,8: Knit
Round 10: Bind off all stitches.

Finishing: Break yarn. Weave in ends. Block if desired.

Ow

2008-05-21T09:53:00.000-07:00

I am on a forced hiatus from knitting due to tendinitis in both arms, primarily the right, from overuse. I am calling it an anti-stress stress injury; since I had a lull in my need to do work in the evenings, I filled that time with knitting. Since I can't stop typing and don't want to stop picking up and carrying the young one, a break from knitting is my best choice for resting my arm.

Pirate day

2008-05-09T10:39:00.001-07:00

Pirate day
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

I whipped up a vest for today's Dress Like a Pirate school event. Arrgh!

Jury Duty Sock Pattern

2008-05-04T10:15:00.000-07:00

This sock is constructed from the top down with a ribbed cuff and heel flap. Pillars of knit stitches are set against a background of reverse stockinette on the leg, and the foot is simple, speedy stockinette. It was designed to be very easy to pick and up put down during the unpredictable breaks in my jury duty service without needing to refer to a pattern. Also, the inexpensive price of Knit Picks Essential will let you buy yarn for a pair of these socks with even a meager jury duty reimbursement.

Materials

Needles: Set of 4 doublepointed needles, size 2 (or size needed to obtain gauge - I am a pretty tight knitter, so you may get a better fitting sock on a size 1 needle)
Tapestry needle

Yarn: Any sock/fingering weight yarn will work for this pattern. Sample shown uses Knit Picks Essential Multi, 2 skeins (about 340 yards)

Gauge: 7 stitches per inch in stockinette stitch (for a comfy leg - try 7.5 stitches to the inch for a snugger fit)

Size: Women’s medium

Cuff

Using long tail cast on, cast on 64 stitches. Join to work in the round, taking care not to twist stitches. Tail from cast on will serve as a marker for the beginning of the round. Arrange on three double-pointed needles as follows:

Needle 1: 16 stitches
Needle 2: 16 stitches
Needle 3: 32 stitches

Work K1, P1 ribbing for 12 rounds (or desired cuff length).

Leg

*K1, P3*, repeat to end of round. Repeat this row until leg measures 6 3/4 inches from cast-on cuff edge or desired length of leg.

Heel

Heel flap is worked back and forth on the 32 stitches on Needle 3. The stitches on Needles 1 and 2 form the instep and will rest while the heel is fashioned.

Turn the work to begin working the heel on the wrong side of needle 3.

Row 1 (WS): Slip 1 purlwise with yarn in front, purl to end of row
Row 2 (RS): *Slip 1 purlwise with yarn in back, K1*, repeat to end of row

Repeat these two rows 15 times. Repeat Row 1 once more.

Heel turn begins on the right side of the work and incorporates short rows to form the three-dimensional heel.
Row 1 (RS): Slip 1, K16, ssk, K1, turn.

Row 2 (WS): Slip 1, P3, P2tog, P1, turn.

Note the gap that is evident between the unworked stitches on the needle and the last worked stitch in the short rows.

Row 3 (RS): Slip 1, K to one stitch before the gap, ssk, K1, turn.

Row 4 (WS): Slip 1, P to one stitch before the gap, p2tog, p1, turn.

Repeat Rows 3 and 4 until all heel stitches have been worked. Knit across all stitches.

Gusset and Foot

Rearrange stitches as follows. Slip half of the heel stitches from Needle 1 to free needle. Slip instep stitches from Needle 3 to Needle 2. Needle 2 now has 32 stitches.

Beginning with Needle 1, which has half of the heel stitches, pick up 16 stitches along the heel flap. Work across Needle 2 in stockinette stitch. With a free needle, pick up 16 stitches along the heel flap and knit across the remaining heel stitches.

Needle 1 now holds half of the foot stitches, Needle 2 has the instep stitches, and Needle 3 holds the other half of the foot stitches. Beginning of round is at center bottom of foot.

Gusset Row 1: Knit to last three stitches on Needle 1, K2tog, K1. Knit across Needle 2. K1, ssk, knit to end of Needle 3.

Gusset Row 2: Work even.

Repeat these two rows until there are 16 stitches on Needles 1 and 3.

Work even until foot is 2 inches shorter than desired length.

Toe

Toe Row 1: Knit to last three stitches on Needle 1, K2tog, K1. K1, ssk, knit to last 3 stitches on Needle 2, K2tog, K1. K1, ssk, knit to end of Needle 3.

Toe Row 2: Work even.

Repeat these two rows until there are 24 stitches remaining. Knit stitches on Needle 1 to bring yarn to side of toe for finishing.

Finishing

Slip stitches from Needle 3 to Needle 1. Use kitchener stitch to join toe stitches together. Break yarn. Weave in ends

OR
Turn sock inside out. Slip stitches from Needle 3 to Needle 1. Use three needle bindoff to join stitches on needles 1 and 2. Break yarn. Weave in ends.

Dizzy....Scarf?

2008-04-15T15:08:00.001-07:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

I finished knitting my scrap rug last night, but still need to sew it together. I don't think the 22-foot scarf is a good look for me.

Ribonacci Sock Pattern

2008-04-11T15:32:00.000-07:00

This sock is constructed from the top down with a short row heel and toe. The ribbing and stripe pattern are inspired by the Fibonacci sequence. The cuff, heel and toe are worked in a main color, and the contrast color is paired with the main color for the striped leg and foot.

Materials

Needles: Set of 4 doublepointed needles, size 2 (or size needed to obtain gauge

Tapestry needle

Yarn: Any sock/fingering weight yarn will work for this pattern. Sample shown uses Schachenmayr Nomotta Micro Bamboo. Solid colors show off the stripe pattern best, but you could experiment with a solid main color and a contrast color in a complementary variegated colorway.

Main color (MC): 2 skeins (about 300 yards)

Contrasting color (CC): 1 skein (about 200 yards)

Gauge: 8 stitches per inch in Rib pattern

Size: Women’s medium

Pattern notes

Rib pattern, over 8 stitches: *K1, P1, K2, P1, K1, P2*

Stripe sequence, over 24 rows:

Row 1: CC

Row 2: MC

Rows 3-4: CC

Rows 5-7: MC

Row 8-12: CC

Row 13: MC

Row 14: CC

Rows 15-16: MC

Rows 17-19: CC

Rows 20-24: MC

Cuff

Using long tail cast on and MC, cast on 64 stitches. Join to work in the round, taking care not to twist stitches. Arrange on three double-pointed needles as follows:

Needle 1: 16 stitches

Needle 2: 16 stitches

Needle 3: 32 stitches

Work K1, P1 ribbing for 12 rounds (or desired cuff length).

Leg

Leg is worked in the rib pattern (*K1, P1, K2, P1, K1, P2*, repeat to end of round) and stripe sequence (see above). Note that stripe sequence begins with CC. When changing colors, bring the new color up from beneath the current color. Hold the color not in use behind the work. To neaten floats, wrap unused color around the active color on rows 6, 10, 18, and 22. Work rows 1-24 of stripe sequence twice. Work rows 1-6 of stripe sequence once more.

Heel

Heel is worked on the 32 stitches on Needle 3, using MC. The stitches on Needles 1 and 2 form the instep and will rest while the heel is fashioned. The contract color also rests during this time.

Begin by unknitting the last stitch on Needle 3, and place on free needle. Turn the work.

Row 1 (WS): P30, turn.

Row 2 (RS): K29, turn.

Row 3: P28, turn.

Row 4: K27, turn.

Row 5: P26, turn.

Continue in this manner, working one fewer stitch each row, until there are 14 stitches unworked in the center of the needle.

Next Row (RS): K14, slip 1, yarn forward, place slipped stitch back on left needle and turn.

Next Row (WS): P14, slip 1, yarn back, place slipped stitch back on left needle and turn.

Next Row: K15, wrap and turn.

Next Row: P16, wrap and turn.

Continue in this manner until all stitches have been worked.

Foot

Resume the stripe sequence for the foot and continue in pattern as set (rib pattern for instep stitches and stockinette for bottom of foot). Work rows 7-24 of the stripe sequence, then work rows 1-24 of the stripe sequence. Work rows 1-12 of stripe sequence once more. Break yarn of CC ONLY – main color is used for toe.

Toe

Toe is worked on the 32 stitches on Needle 3, using MC. The stitches on Needles 1 and 2 will rest while the heel is fashioned.

Begin by unknitting the last stitch on Needle 3, and place on free needle. Turn the work.

Row 1 (WS): P30, turn.

Row 2 (RS): K29, turn.

Row 3: P28, turn.

Row 4: K27, turn.

Row 5: P26, turn.

Continue in this manner, working one fewer stitch each row, until there are 14 stitches unworked in the center of the needle.

Next Row (RS): K14, slip 1, yarn forward, place slipped stitch back on left needle and turn.

Next Row (WS): P14, slip 1, yarn back, place slipped stitch back on left needle and turn.

Next Row: K15, wrap and turn.

Next Row: P16, wrap and turn.

Continue in this manner until all stitches have been worked.

Finishing

Turn sock inside out. Slip stitches from Needle 2 to Needle 1. Use three needle bindoff and MC to join stitches on needles 3 and 1. Break yarn. Weave in ends.

Variations
Make symmetrical socks by reversing the rib pattern for the second sock as follows: *P2, K1, P1, K2, P1, K1*

Make “negative image” socks and use only two skeins of yarn by reversing the MC and CC for the second sock.

Scrap Yarn Rug - WIP

2008-04-03T21:42:00.001-07:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ShelbyD

Using up lots of different scraps and partial balls to make a large rug. It's a bit addictive. I'm enjoying seeing how the different colors come together.

One Hour Bib

2008-03-31T14:00:00.000-07:00

A very last minute baby gift. Actual time elapsed depends on your personal knitting speed.

Materials

Size 11 needles

Lily Sugar ‘n’ Cream yarn, 1 skein (120 yds) – held double throughout

Tapestry needle

Gauge in garter stitch – 3.5 stitches per inch. Exact gauge is not essential

Pattern

Using long tail cast on and holding two strands of yarn together throughout, cast on 24 stitches. Knit all stitches in every row until piece measures 8.5 inches.

On the following right side row (tail from long tail cast on will be on the right-hand side of the piece, bind off all stitches, but leave last stitch on the needle. Do not break yarn.

Keeping the right side facing you, rotate the work 90 degrees to the right, so that the active stitch is now in the upper right corner of the piece. Pick up one stitch for each garter ridge along this edge.
Knit three rows even.

On the following right side row, K3, bind off to last three stitches, K3. Knit back and forth on three active stitches until strap measures 10 inches. Bind off. Break yarn. Join yarn to wrong side of the three remaining stitches. Work even until second strap measures 10 inches. Bind off. Break yarn. Weave in ends.

Heartstrings Hat Pattern

2008-02-06T11:01:00.001-08:00

A sweet, simple hat for the little Valentine in your life. I started with one a basic hat recipe (I like the ones in Susan Anderson's Itty Bitty Hats) and embellished with hearts from I-cords knitted out from the top of the hat.

Size: Toddler (about 1-2 years)

Yarn:
MC: 120 yards worsted weight yarn (1 skein Lily Sugar ‘n’ Cream Solid Cotton: Pink)

CC: 40 yards worsted weight yarn (1 skein Lily Sugar ‘n’ Cream Solid Cotton: Pink and white variegated))

Materials:)

Size 6 16” cicular needle)

Size 6 double-pointed needles, set of 5)

Stitch marker)

Gauge: 5 stitches per inch in stockinette stitch

Pattern:

With MC, cast on 80.

Join for knitting in the round.

Place a stitch marker to denote beginning of round.

Knit every round until body of hat measures 6.25” from bottom edge (unroll as needed to measure)

Decrease for crown of hat as follows, switching to dpn’s as needed to accommodate smaller number of stitches.

Round 1: *K6, k2tog*, repeat to end of round

Round 2:*K5, k2tog*, repeat to end of round

Round 3:Knit

Round 4:Knit

Round 5:*K4, k2tog*, repeat to end of round

Round 6:Knit

Round 7:*K3, k2tog*, repeat to end of round

Round 8:Knit

Round 9:*K2, k2tog*, repeat to end of round

Round 10:Knit

Round 11:*K1, k2tog*, repeat to end of round

Round 12:*K2tog*, repeat to end of round

You should have 10 stitches remaining. Arrange stitches as follows on 4 double-pointed needles:

Needle 1: 2 stitches

Needle 2: 3 stitches

Needle 3: 2 stitches

Needle 4: 3 stitches

You will now be working with the contrasting color (CC) to make the cords that will form the top of the hat and the applied heart designs,
To make I-cord: On every row, *k to end, do not turn work, slide stitches to other side of needle*, repeat until cord is desired length

With CC:
Needle 1: Work 2 stitch I-cord for 16”. SSK. Fasten off remaining stitch and break yarn, leaving a 12” tail.

Needle 2: Work 3 stitch I-cord for 16”. Slip 1, SSK, pass slipped stitch over. Fasten off remaining stitch and break yarn, leaving a 12” tail.

Needle 3: Work 2 stitch I-cord for 16”. SSK. Fasten off remaining stitch and break yarn, leaving a 12” tail.

Needle 4: Work 3 stitch I-cord for 16”. Slip 1, SSK, pass slipped stitch over SSK. Fasten off remaining stitch and break yarn, leaving a 12” tail.

Finishing:

Tie together the two 2-stitch cords in a loose knot to close the opening at the top of the hat. Tie together the two 3-stitch cords over the top of the first knot. Don’t pull these tight and deform the shape of the hat.

Lay each cord out in a heart shape on the outside of the hat, and use the long tail at the end of each cord to attach to the body of the hat. I found it easiest to tack down the point at the bottom of the heart, then the indentation at the top, and then a few points around the perimeter of the shape.

Weave in all ends.

IMG_2023.JPG
Originally uploaded by gldyas

Happy New Year!

2008-01-01T20:44:00.000-08:00

Here's wishing everyone a safe and fruitful 2008.

Our year got off to a notable start when I woke up this morning to see that almost half of the huge ash tree in our yard had blown down in the overnight windstorm, and had fallen toward the house. One great big limb is filling our side yard, and Greg spent four hours in the back and on the roof just to get branches off of the house. The whole tree will need to come out; it's split all the way down the trunk and one of the other segments still standing is creaking. Luckily, it appears that there is no major damage to the roof, and no one was hurt. Surely an omen of an exciting year to come.

In the bag

2007-12-03T22:04:00.000-08:00

I'm about done with the body of this Noro bag, and started working the flap this evening while putting the baby to sleep. Then it was Monday night work per usual, so now I'm sleepy and ready for bed.

Elfy Hat

2007-12-02T10:13:00.001-08:00

IMG_1737.JPG
Originally uploaded by gldyas

I whipped this up this weekend from some stashed Sugar 'n' Cream. B's most recent hat was her pumpkin hat, and I needed to catch up the seasonality of her headgear.

NaBloPoMo is complete

2007-12-01T21:00:00.001-08:00

NaBloPoMo
Originally uploaded by udge

..and so is the elfy striped christmas hat I started last night for B.

Eve of December

2007-11-30T22:33:00.000-08:00

It's cold tonight - I have the laptop on my lap right now more for warmth that to surf. I started a little holiday hat for the Biscuit tonight. We have our company kid party tomorrow, and plan to get our holiday baking and whatnot going this weekend.

Cyber Monday, Thursday, Whatever

2007-11-29T22:17:00.000-08:00

I just did about 70% of my Christmas shopping, online, on Amazon. Gotta love the interwebs.

I finished up the Cash Iroha scarf today, including the fringe. I cast on for a Kureyon bag about three times and finally settled on a decent width.

Knitting in the News: Sock Industry Tariffs

2007-11-28T22:27:00.001-08:00

I heard this story on NPR yesterday about the sock industry of Fort Payne, Alabama, and the role sock tariffs played in trade agreement decisions. I recommend it.