Stitches and Strings

WIP Wednesday & Inspiration

2011-11-16T14:01:00.000-05:00

Almost done! These are the front and back pieces. I'll be knitting the sleeves next. Right now this looks like two giant scarves.I usually know what I want my next project to be. But I've seen so much inspiration lately that I'm just not sure which direction to go in. I want more dresses, sweaters, knit pants, sheer knits...I even saw a pair of leggings that I want.

Inspiration!
I love Svetlana's fushia & black ensemble! She really edged up this look with black leather boots and jacket. I love pinks and black together. Always have! I also love all the texture in that tunic!

Aforementioned leggings layered with knits. Uber cozy. Yess!!

Image from Lily

Photo Friday

2011-11-04T18:16:00.000-04:00

I thought I would share some photos. As regular readers know, it's another one of my passions. Plus, it's a way to say hello till I have a finshed project to show.Had a little photo shoot last week and coincidentally happened to be wearing one of my knits. It's the Ebony Turtleneck that I made last year. I have to say, this knit has gotten sooo much wear over the past year. It's just one of those staple, go-to pieces. I didn't really show it off in these pics. The shoot wasn't about the turtleneck, but now I wish I had gotten more of it in the pics. I also wish my hem had been turned down. LOL!

Flirting with the Camera

Super Skinny
I always use laceweight/light fingering size threads, but I want to go even skinnier sometimes. I swatched up this yarn (to the left). It's a two-ply knitting yarn that is the size of #10 crochet thread. Seriously! You can see how considerably smaller the stitches are from the yarn on the right, especially the stripe. I didn't think it would knit properly on my machine, but decided to give it a try. It turned out great! Now I can't wait to make some things with a super skinny yarns!

Cocoa
I decided to go with a slightly deeper color. It's called "Cocoa" and it's very rich and delicious! Dontcha think?! I saw this color and fell in love all over again! I love my original color choice also. It was such a match, but I have some unfinished business with that shade of yarn. That project was frogged quite a while ago, however, I still plan to reknit it. This thread is the same size as the swatch to the right in the photo above. The smaller thread is half the size of this strand. I think that puts it in perspective.

Knitting Progress
Does this look familiar? LOL! This picture was taken earlier this afternoon. I knit this up today. You'll be happy to know that I've made considerable progress just since this photo was taken. I've been slow in starting this project, so I'm trying to catch up by knitting the complete back today. I really need to start taking full advantage of this machine. You can really have a nice knit wardrobe if you own one of these!

Have a great weekend!

Let's Catch Up!

2011-10-10T00:11:00.002-04:00

I'm not done with this striped dress kick just yet! I still fully intend to make my fall dress. I seriously love this dress and I can really see myself wearing it. The fact that she looks totally fab in hers probably has a lot to do with it.I put a couple of colors together to see what they would look like. I tried to match the colors as close as possible because I really love the look just as it is; right down to the jacket! Image from Cheetah is the New Black
Next: You would have to be living under a rock not to have caught wind of the Missoni for Target craze last month. I didn't purchase anything. I wasn't interested in anything that I saw, and thank goodness. Everything sold out very quickly. Before it was all over, there was one little number that grabbed my attention and held on tight. Drool! Seriously! How hot is this? I've already picked out colors! Now of course this was a serious tease. NOTHING like this was sold in Target locations near me. I suspect it was never sold in the Target stores period. So I can only guess how much this little number would run for. That would actually be very amusing. If anyone finds a link. Please share. I'm curious.

Lastly: I know I said I wouldn't be changing systems again anytime soon but...when I said I missed my Olympus. I really meant it. So I'm back to my Olympus system. I appreciate my system now more than before! Sometimes you actually get it right the first time. This camera is so me! It's seriously fun to use!
Plus, it's so darn sexy!

Image from Patrick Ng

Finally...Striped Maxi Dress!!

2011-10-06T21:35:00.000-04:00

Ok, so I finally finished my summer dress just in time for fall. LOL! There have to be some points earned for perseverance. Right??
The reason it has taken me so long to complete this project is because I made a colossal mistake on it after knitting half of the dress. It's the mistake every knitter will or has encountered. Gauge! So I had to walk away from it for a considerable amount of time before STARTING OVER! Half of this project was quite a bit of work. But I really wanted this dress! What's one to do? Fix it and vent later!
But on to the good stuff!!
I'm really pleased with how this turned out. It's sleeveless, if you're wondering.
I wanted a slim & simple collar. So I ripped out the original ribbed band that I knit and opted for this. I thought it looked too sweater-like for summer.
Since I had a couple of request to see the sleeve, I snapped a couple of pics and added them to the gallery.I was alone when these were taken, so there's noone modeling it.But you can see just how lovely the armholes turned out. Inside and out.
They're done in a simple 1x1 rib.I'm quite proud of them!It truly is ankle length and I really can't waitto make one for fall!
How did I do on matching those stripes?The weight is just heavy enough where you don't have to wear concealment garments underneath.Isn't that really the purpose of summer dresses? I sure wouldn't want to miss a cool breeze! Hee hee...I'm going to be in this dress so much next summer!!

Constructing

2011-07-25T14:19:00.004-04:00

Today I'm constructing. I haven't been as diligent as I wanted with my knitting. But I'm trying to make up for lost time. It's a gorgeous day. We just had a little sun shower and now it's back to the warm breeze. Beautiful day to craft.
I'm nearly finished with two, yep two projects and all I need to do it construct them. Then it's on to the fun part...modeling pics! I will stay up all night if I need to to finish this dress by tomorrow. It's long overdue!

I also got my new equipment the end of last week. I'm now a Canon girl. Still Olympus girl at heart too. :) This is the new Canon T3i/600D and I've had a crush on it since I first laid eyes on it. I swear I believe this camera was made with me in mind! Believe it or not, this is the second time I've purchased this exact model. The first time I purchased it, I returned it because I just couldn't let my Olympus go. I love that camera too. My Olympus Pen brought out the creativity in me. However, I'm not really a collector. Something would gather dust. Something very expensive would gather dust. So after a while I remembered why I wanted to switch to this camera and I sold my other system first and then puchased this one. I had no choice now. The other one was off to another good home. I've never missed a camera before. I miss my Pen system, but my new baby is cushioning the blow big time! Trust me. A year from now you will not be getting another post of a new camera that I've purchased. We'll be together for quite some time!

My Own Knit-a-Thon!!

2011-05-31T13:47:00.010-04:00

1:47 PM
Even though I'm still working on my band for my green shrug, I'm starting my striped dress today. Yep, can't wait! I know I'm getting a late start but today I'm going to do something interesting. I'm going to knit as much as possible and see how much I get done. I will also post my progress today along the way. I saw this post and thought it was interesting to show all the progress in one post. Well all of my progress won't be in one post since I'm already posting, but hopefully most of it will be in one day. Although, I am knitting an ankle length dress. Here you can see I just cast on my waste yarn. I'll be back later today to show you my progress.

I've seen tons of inspiration while waiting for my yarn. This is definitely one of my favorite inspirational pics! I love love love the way this diva paired her maxi-striped dress with a very cute, short leather jacket! I LOVE this look! I need to knit this exact look just before fall. I can see it with half sleeves. Drool.

Image from Cheetah is the New Black

But for now, I can pair my white/navy dress with a crisp white jacket that I have and rock it like this Anthropologie number. Oh what fun this is turning out to be!

5:39 PM Update!
Ok, so I started out knitting with white and thought I don't want the white hitting the ground! It would be different if it was an all-white dress. But since I have the choice... Between that and the fact that I haven't been in front of the machine exclusively, this is what you get 4 hours later. Kind of disappointing. Let me get back to the machine. I'll keep you updated.

7:30 PM
I'm done knitting for the evening. Lots of work and over 400 rows later. I'm done for the day! I was hoping I'd be able to get half of my dress knitted and off of the machine. I could have if I stayed planted at my machine, but I would have gotten nothing else done today. I still feel very good about my progress. I'll get back to it tomorrow. Goodnight!

I'm having enough fun to share!

2011-05-26T09:24:00.001-04:00

Oooohhh I've got to get busy! My yarn came in the mail yesterday!!! You see the lime green and turquoise in there? Not a coincidence that they match the flip-flops I featured last month. The first thing I thought when I saw this box was "Are all four of my cones in this box??" But, when I cracked it open, they were all smiling at me. All four! Hey, do you happen to notice the navy and white cones of yarn. Those are the colors I chose for my striped project, which will be my next project. Can't wait. It's been quite an exciting day on the knitting front.

I'm almost done knitting my shrug. I started knitting the band yesterday. So, I'm glad to say that everything else has been knit up! Sometimes projects go through stages. I started out excited about this project and then that excitement curtailed a bit. Once I got the fronts and back knitted the fun started again with the sleeves. They knitted up so quickly and the next day I'm picking out a stitch pattern for my band and knitting it up. The fun is back!

Books and Needles

2011-05-25T14:37:00.001-04:00

Blogger is having issues, so you may need to log in again to leave a comment. I really appreciate it.
Monday I went to the library to mill around while I waited for my daughter to get out of school. Well...giggle...I didn't exactly get out free and clear. When all was said and done I ended up leaving with an armful of knitting books. As you can see, I really couldn't fit any more on that arm if I tried. These are all stitch books cause I plan to design a couple of summer things with the yarn I've been so ~~patiently~~ waiting for. Don't I look more than a tad bit happy?
In other news! Yesterday I picked up another needle. I'm swatching for my next project. However, the needles that I have are either too large or small. Yadda, yadda...anywhoo, I ran over to Michael's to get a Susan Bates needle. All my Michael's has now is Clover and Boye. Clover didn't have the size I needed so I had to get Boye. Boye oh Boye! What I liked better about SB needles is the cable is much softer and the needles have the sizes etched into them. Neither is true of Boye. I can't switch the cables because they fit differently on the needles. At least they came in a little ziplock bag with the cardboard that has the size on it. Well, they've taken that away now and it's just the cardboard now. So the baggie has to be supplied by muah! It's been a while since I used my Boyes because I've been knitting on my machine for so long and my last project was knitted using my SB needle, so picking up this Boye again is not the same experiece now that I've used something softer. They really are as rigid as they look in the photos. It actually looks like an antenna. LOL! Now that I'm getting back to hand-knitting, it's time for a nice little set of needles. I don't want to make my own cables or anything like that. Rumor has it that Addi Turbos have incredibly soft and flexible cables. Anyone have any opinions on Knitpicks interchangable nickel-plated or Addi Turbo? Or if anyone has experience with both and can compare. That would be great too.

Now that spring is here...

2011-05-23T05:00:00.002-04:00

...I'm once again overwhelmed with project ideas. Everything is an inspiration to turn beautiful organic fibers into prideful masterpieces. Today the house is open and the fresh spring air is circulating the lovely scent of the peach mango pouring off of the flame. I love creating my own atmosphere and scented candles are always a part of that equation.

Regardless of what your craft of choice is, it really couldn't be a lovlier day to work on it. That's exactly what I'm doing today. Hanging photos and knitting are all that's on my very short to-do list today. The first of the two sleeves is on the needles but both will be knitted up today. I'm expecting more yarn to be arriving on my door step any day now. Also, I would really like to start wearing my little shrug, so this only means that I'll be quite the busy knitter. Not such a bad position to be in. :) What's your inspiration?

It starts with a single strand...

...and becomes beautiful fabric.

Yesterday I finished...

2011-05-02T13:58:00.006-04:00

...knitting one of the front panels and blocked it. I'm one of those people who actually likes blocking. Don't like sewing the pieces together, but I do enjoy the blocking process. Might sound weird to some of you. LOL! My little project is moving right along. I just wish the weather here was inspirational. It's anything but. All gloom & doom outside and all I want to do it just curl up under my comforter and save the knitting for later. But how will I ever get to my other projects if I do that?

Summer Anticipation!!

2011-04-30T20:38:00.010-04:00

I have a cute little shrug on the needles right now. I used the green yarn that I purchased a while ago. I was going to use it to start my striped project, but you remember how that turned out. Well, in the end it turned out just fine. I'm about 40% finished with my current project and I've saved the stripes for the lively spring/summer colors.

I simply cannot wait to get started coordinating my summer knits with all the cute summer accessories, including these bright and fun flip flops from Old Navy! I love flip flops. They are soooo easy to wear and it just doesn't get any more comfortable than this. And with all the colors...FUN FUN FUN! So anyway, it's going to be too much fun matching them up with yarn for this summer's knits. Have to hurry up with my current project so that I can get started with all those yummy colors.

Time to go shopping...

2011-04-13T17:09:00.004-04:00

...cause I can't work under these conditions! I wanted to destash some of the yarn I had laying around but as you can see, this is still in many pieces, even after winding a few of the many pieces! This was going to be one of the two colors in my striped project. Also, I'm going to knit this loosely. Since this will be a summer dress, I want it to be breezy. While visiting one of my blog neighbors, I saw the ever fashionable Dylana already wearing a long striped dress this season. I can't wait to be wearing mine!

It's all about the stripes!!!

2011-04-11T12:10:00.011-04:00

Check me out! Basking in the sun! This was me yesterday, on a park bench, in flip-flops and a sleeveless wrap, capris, sunglasses, and a smile! Too bad I wasn't wearing one of my summer knits. Can you believe the weather we've been having lately? It just came out of nowhere and I'm lovin it!

Stripes are in and I'm jumping on board! They're on everything! Tops, dresses, pants, shorts, swimwear, accessories...you name it! Don't you just love those striped shoes! Those are Tabitha Simmons and you can pick them up for the nifty little price of $895...or not. I've always liked stripes and now I've decided it's time I knitted something covered in them. So that's what my next project will be. Not sure if it will be a dress or top just yet. However, I do know which yarns I'm using. There are a couple of projects that never made if off the ground and that yarn will be going towards this project. Also, worth mentioning is that the "maxi dress" is still in full swing. I will be partaking in knitting one this summer as well. I have been working them since they took the fashion world by storm a couple of years ago, but it's high time that I had a little fun making one, or two. :)

Dayflower Camisole Finished!

2011-04-09T20:30:00.012-04:00

Well, actually, I've been finished knitting this for quite some time. All I had left were the tails. Aaaahhh the tails. Don't ya just luv em! I'm sooooo glad to finally be able to finish this project and post about it. It's actually my first finished project for 2011. I enjoyed knitting this. I absolutely love the stitch pattern. This is definitely a fall/winter wear for me. I could never wear something in this weight (DK) in hot weather. However, today the weather was in the 50s & I wore it over a tee and it was quite comfortable. I didn't give myself much time to wear this. A few more weeks and it will be time for sheer and skinny knits. But that's ok. If cold weather is nothing else, it's faithful. :)

Winter Wonderland

2011-01-12T21:47:00.012-05:00

This is what I woke up to today. It is undoubtedly beautiful. I love when you can just enjoy the quiet beauty of it. This is when I can appreciate the snow. It is so fluffy and white. When I went outside it was so quiet and peaceful. It was like a little bit of heaven had fallen to earth. :)

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

2010-12-25T23:17:00.002-05:00

Hope you all are enjoying the holidays!

So close!

2010-12-21T02:17:00.008-05:00

(Heavy sigh!) It's that time of year when things are out of sorts. I was on a roll with my knitting projects. Yes. I have a couple of them going and was sure they'd both be completed by now. I am finished knitting the bottom lace portion of this tunic and have been for some time. Seems like now that I'm up to the stockinette portion (easy part) I've lost quite a bit of interest. I have to shake that off and continue forging ahead. I'm soooo close! Plus, if I finish within the next few days, I can add this project to my 2010 Completed Projects! Hmmm... I need a little push. Any words of encouragement would be much appreciated.

Don't you just love...

2010-11-16T15:09:00.006-05:00

...when the mailman brings you goodies! Now I have even more yarn. I currently have one project on the machine, another project on my needles and here comes more yarn. This yarn may have to wait, cause I still want to get my little beret knitted up once I finish my current hand knit. But it certainly won't go to waste. I absolutely love this shade of green. It's like an army or seaweed green. Plus, I currently have nothing in this color. Hmmm, how about a sweater and matching beret from this yarn?! The wheels are turning! Ok well, I'm headed to the sofa to browse my mags, knit and see which Netflix movie came today. It's gloomy here and it's the perfect day to cozy up and lounge about. Boy! That sure sounds good. Doesn't it? TTYL.

Ribbing

2010-11-12T19:00:00.005-05:00

This is the other project that I'm currently working on. This one will be the first one finished. Lot's of ribbing. I absolutely love wearing cream in the winter. I had the hardest time with my knitting today. One mishap after another on both hand and machine, and now that that's over, I finally made some progress. However, my nostrils are flaring from all the lint and I'm done knitting for the evening.

What's Next!

2010-11-11T14:05:00.007-05:00

I've abandoned the other lacey little number to use this yarn to make something I've had my eye on for a long time. The Dayflower Camisole by Angela Hahn. I love this little number and I couldn't help but start knitting it even though it's November. I can always put a tee under this. My daughter pointed out to me that I have already made something very similiar. Anywhoo! Now for her: I found something that I just know she is going to love. It's definitely her style and she even told me she wanted more of them. It's the Ishbel Beret by Ysolda Teague. She wouldn't dare call it a beret. The girls here call them "cushies". Cute huh? This is beautiful. I've got to hurry so that maybe I'll slip this into her stocking this year! I will be so proud of myself. I am determined to complete both of these projects in a respectable amount of time! Both!

Ebony Turtleneck is Done!

2010-11-08T18:46:00.018-05:00

Don't pass out, but I'm finally posting again. LOL! This sweater has actually been done for about a week but catching up with my busy little model was an even bigger task than knitting the sweater. At any rate, here she is modeling the black turtleneck sweater with her cute little tutu I was telling you all about. I know it's just a plain turtleneck, but I'm so proud of it cause it fits perfectly and well...it's finished! ;) Also, I still think black turtlenecks are cool. What do you think? I still can't believe that it has taken me so long to knit a black sweater, especially since I need a new one for myself! So expect another one. For my friends out there in Blogland, I know I haven't been by in a while, but I will be stopping by to see what you've been up to & show support. Meanwhile, enjoy the view.

Can you believe this?!?!

2010-09-29T14:19:00.007-04:00

Yeah, it is what it looks like! I friggin ran out of yarn!!! Stomping foot! I was hoping the next post would be the pics of the finished garment. However, there are two good sides to this. You're probably scratching your head right now trying to quickly access what the one good side could be. Well, I was just happily knitting away when I suddenly ran out of yarn. First I thought, maybe my yarn had snapped. However, not too far in the back of my mind I knew there was the possibility that...it was a wrap. As you can see, I knitted right up until the end of the strand. My goodness! This could have been horrible if the strand ran out in the middle of my row! I don't even want to entertain that thought. So anywhoo, that's the first saving grace. The second is pretty obvious by now. It's black! So, I'll order more & hope my knitting bug doesn't die before it gets here. :(

Did you really believe me when...

2010-09-28T16:45:00.009-04:00

...I said I would have this done last week?? Sorry. Those of you who follow me knew better. I should have named this blog "The Slowest Knitter". LOL! Anywhoo, I have been knitting today and I finished the back! Yaaayy! It's on the blocking board as we speak.

I realized that I've never knitted anything black before. Imagine that! Another fellow knitter mentioned that it's not too often that she sees someone knit with the color black. I hadn't noticed. Really! I thought it was just me. Interesting. Cause I was wondering "What took me so long?!" Have you guys done much knitting in black? I really plan to do more. I can tell you that it's kind of tricky to photograph. :)

Tonight I finally...

2010-09-19T23:06:00.002-04:00

...made some progress with my sweater. Unfortunately, I had to turn my attention towards other matters, thus neglecting my project that I'm looking forward to seeing my daughter wearing. However, I'm back to knitting and this evening I finally put some work in. I actually had to start completely over because I realized that I had cast on too few stitches. Aaaarrrggg!!! Anywhoo, I'll save the shaping for tomorrow and if all goes as planned, this project should be a wrap by the end of the week. :)

The Year of the Tutu!

2010-09-07T19:11:00.008-04:00

This has definitely been the year of the tutu! I mean...they're everywhere!! On girls of all ages. Isn't it fun to be a girl?! Even designer Betsey Johnson wore a tutu dress to celebrate her 68th birthday this year. I love it! I know that if I was going to prom or getting married this year that I would definitely have worn a tutu. Still looking for the occasion. In the meanwhile my daughter has the lifestyle that affords her the chance to sport one of these tulle laden, frilly little skirts. So tonight I've started making her a sweater to go with it. Then it hit me...why not try my hand at a tutu. Hmmm...I just may.

Chauffer La Vague

2010-07-29T12:07:00.035-04:00

*This pattern is no longer available for sale.*

Today is...

2010-07-25T00:30:00.008-04:00

...the day of the photo shoot for my latest knitting project. I'm getting excited just thinking about it! It just adds more fun to the project. Of course it's only wee morning right now, so I've got hours to go before anyone strikes a pose. But, if you've been tuning in, you won't have to wait much longer. Speaking of which, here's a photo that I took just tonight of my darling youngster a few hours ago. We had a photo shoot of our own after he requested that I take a simple pic of him. Simple picture? What is that?! LOL! So I seized the opportunity to tune my photography skills. We both agreed this was the money shot!

Almost There!!

2010-07-03T18:42:00.011-04:00

The pattern will soon be ready to be unveiled. I'm on a tight schedule. I have to be because there is so much that has to be done to make a garment into a published pattern. Swatching, pattern drafting, schematics, knitting, reknitting, measurement conversions, photos, design layouts, ect...and I ~~love~~ every aspect of it! Just wish I had more time in a day...week...year. However, this project will get published in enough time to knit and wear this summer.

I Wanna Knit!

2010-06-22T15:43:00.012-04:00

I'm in a very creative mood today. It's such a gorgeous and peaceful day. I've been sitting right next to the window and knitting away today. However, production has come to a screeching halt due to the fact that the needles I ordered haven't arrived yet. So, you can say that I'm a few needles short of a garment. ;~) I'll use this time to share a pic of my progress thus far.

A little sneek peek...

2010-06-17T00:05:00.003-04:00

...at some of the magic that's been worked today. I'm really hoping that I don't loose the affects of the knitting-bug-bite, cause this project is not a quickie. But how many quickies do I knit? There's a little bit of lace and a lot of color changes. I really tried to avoid knitting lace. LOL! Really I did, but it was necessary for the look I was going for. You just can't skimp on beauty! However, this is not a lacy piece. The main focus of this will be those beautiful stripes that I love so much!

Zig Zag Stripe Madness!

2010-06-15T18:47:00.022-04:00

Well the Missoniesque stripes have definitely streamed their way into the world of knitting, or maybe the other way around. They have definitely caught my pretty little eye. ;) Last night I converted this stitch for my machine. Today I made my swatch and I'm drafting a pattern. As a matter of fact I'm making this pattern available for all of my machine-knitting ladies also. Regretably, I didn't order enough yarn to make a dress. There's still plenty of hot weather ahead. Maybe I'll make one while it's still hot out.

Striped mini above-Rav Id:Stricky

Vest Completed

2010-06-13T19:32:00.024-04:00

As promised, the modeled pics!

I crocheted the collar instead of ribbing. I wanted more of a beach look instead of beachhouse.
Even with both layers together, you can see how rather sheer this is for summer.
What I love about this is all the lovely texture.

TGIF Knitting!!!

2010-05-28T14:30:00.026-04:00

It's a beautiful day. I've got all of the windows opened and I'm knitting the front of my vest! It's time for a FO and a new project shot to be posted! So I am working diligently to make up for lost time. I started to take more pics of my progress, but..."Hell...enough pics of the progress! Just give me the project!" I hear ya. Instead, here's my beautiful machine in action. You can't see the knitting, but it's happening. I promise!
Goal: Next post concerning this project will be me wearing this vest!

This is my new baby. I'd like to introduce her. Yep, it's a Pen! Not because it is all the rage. Not because it has that nostalgic feel. Although, pretty cool huh?! But because it is seriously awesome!

The top pic was taken with my new baby. The middle and bottom pics were taken with my other favorite; my Pani Lumix. And as you can tell, ain't a thang wrong with her either!

Cable Eye Candy

2010-05-17T16:55:00.014-04:00

I love texture and nothing gives you texture like cables! Since I have a cabled WIP, I've been noticing all the pretty cable projects. Here are a few that really caught my eye.
*ravelry links*

A Field of Cables

2010-05-12T11:01:00.006-04:00

The back is finally done. Can you believe it? LOL! I know...I know...taking me far too long. Doesn't it always?

Rows and rows of willowy, cloud-like cables.
Time to start knitting the front cause I'm looking forward to wearing this this summer and I'm also looking forward to planning my next project!

Update

2010-05-09T03:04:00.001-04:00

I've been having a lot of fun with my photos and graphic designs lately. I originally was going to put everything together on one blog, but instead, most of my photos can be found on my Flickr Photostream. Since I plan to consistently photo and scrap about things that are non-knitted related, I didn't want my viewers to loose interest in what they have come to know as a knitting blog.
I apologize to those of you who left comments on some of the posts that I deleted. Your comments have been lost. Feel free to drop by and post again or just check out what's new. :)

In My Library

2010-05-09T02:21:00.008-04:00

My favorite books are the Somerset Publications. I love the Memories and Where Women Create editions in particular. Memories showcases scrapbooking pages; both paper and digital. There are some really cool effects with both and with every turn of the page is yet another really cool layout or Photoshop tutorial!

Where Women Create is all about creative spaces. Whether it be really crafty stores or personal crafting spaces...I get a charge out of seeing all of the pics of the different creative spaces. I find it very inspirational. They are all so very different! Of course it makes me want to redecorate my own space!

I've lost a lot of sleep because of these books!

I'm Having a Love Affair...

2010-04-21T16:58:00.009-04:00

...with my cables! Why do I always pick these intricate projects!!! Why can't I just be one of those knitters who likes the quick-and-easy-fix projects? I mean, we've got to have some of those in our knitting too. Don't we? They're called "wardrobe staples". I guess that's what my last piece was. So now it's back to the arduous, intricates...Why?

Because easy often looks easy, and bores me visually. So even the mundane stonkinette has to have some bit of detail; rather it's in the shaping, colorwork, or an interesing yarn. Visual boredom certainly isn't a problem I'm having when looking at this project. This is all about texture. Little hills and valleys of devine pillowy fabric created from a continuous strand of organic goodness. Cotton.

Finally, It's More Than My Imagination!

2010-04-15T19:46:00.009-04:00

Just a little while ago this project was just an idea in my head. Now it's a small, but tangible progression of that idea. Boy do I wish I had more to show you, but...life gets in the way of creativity! However, you get a glimpse of how this is turning out. I'm loving it! I was driving home thinking "Does anyone wear cables in the Summer?" I don't recall, but I will be wearing them this summer! LOL! I used a thin thread so that it would be very airy, otherwise the cables would have made it really hot. I've decided to name this "East Hampton Vest" since it's just a loose interpretation of the South Hampton Vest. Gosh, I wish I had more time to knit!

A Moment of Silence Please

2010-04-10T21:05:00.008-04:00

She's poetry in motion!

Spring Knitting

2010-04-09T23:27:00.014-04:00

Layout Credits: Lynn Griffin-Spring In My Heart

First Project 2010...Ribbed Tunic

2010-03-30T17:14:00.016-04:00

My sweater is finally done! It fits snug at the hips and blouses out at the waist. I'm lovin it and can't wait to accessorize this little beauty and wear it!

I don't like...

2010-03-27T19:35:00.004-04:00

... being locked out of my own house! I haven't been able to get into Blogger blogs for two days. Today being the second day. Only until this evening was I let back in. Umph! Well anywhoo, today was a gorgeous day and a perfect day to take pics of my sweater, if only...I had completed the finishing touches. It's completely knitted; just have to tuck those tails. Pictures will be posted really soon. In the meantime, I stopped off at Michaels today and perused the scrapbooking goodies. I feel a project coming on. ;-)

Attention Little Soldiers...

2010-03-16T19:36:00.003-04:00

...you're doing a great job ribbing!

As I said, I am working on my sweater today so that I can get on to wearing it and making the next project.

Let Me Hurry Up...

2010-03-16T14:57:00.003-04:00

...and finish my current project already!!! Has to be finished today! That's an order! There are so many pretty projects that I want to knit. I've made up my mind that I'm going to start knitting up these gorgeous patterns that I just keep looking at. Now on the scene are even more pretties! So I've got to get it in 3rd gear! LOL! Just wish I had more leisure time. But, one must work with what one has. Biggest dilemma...which one do I knit first?!?!

Seeing Green

2010-03-14T13:11:00.004-04:00

Lately I've been seeing a lot of fresh greens on the websites of knitters. I think we're all ready for spring weather!

Child sweater-Sockpixie, socks-Elin, dark green skein-Rooted, marled green skein-Zknits, adult sweater-PugMama

More Seaming

2010-03-09T13:44:00.008-05:00

Second day and last day of seaming. I whipped out a little gadget that I remembered I have to help me along. I love machinery, gizmos, gadgets, technology and find it so fun to incorporate them with my crafts in one form or another.

This particular little gadget is my linker. It forms a chain link stitch along my seams. I actually find that I prefer to seam by hand. I have more control over how tight/loose I want the seam. I'm sewing the second sleeve on. I'll knit the neckband and I'll be done knitting!!! I'm enjoying my little project, but I'm also ready to start something new.

Seaming

2010-03-08T15:51:00.000-05:00

Finally, some progress!

2010-03-01T17:03:00.016-05:00

Today I'm blocking and knitting. It's not on the blocking board but I also have one sleeve knitted. The other is on it's way. I read this post on Ysolda's blog and completely relate to it! Sometimes I see bloggers post only their finished objects. I love blogging and talking to other bloggers. I just can't go into hiding until everything's knitted up. Boring! I think it's fun to keep in touch and share the progress of our projects. It's what makes blogging...well, blogging!

Muy bonita!!!

2010-02-23T16:54:00.013-05:00

Have you checked out the new cover of Vogueknitting yet??? Well here it is! This is beautiful! I love the lace. I love the color! I love how it looks vintage, youthful and femine!

It's called a "capelet" not a shawl. Since it has more shape to it, even a fold-over collar, calling it a capelet is certainly more befitting. But whatever you call it, I call it beautiful!

OMG! This is gorgeous!

2010-02-17T12:48:00.004-05:00

I have been inspired again! Instantly when I saw this lace dress from John Galiano the creative juices started to flow. I bought the magazine just for this this one page! I love the way they photographed this look. Layered white/turquoise. Even the bike! LOL!
I love love love summer knits and tropical colors. So taking inspiration from this piece for this summer will be a challenge I would love to take on!
I have to hurry up and finish my current project so that I can work on my next project! How many times have you said that???

Snow, snow, snow...

2010-02-10T16:50:00.019-05:00

A little hard to get inspired for a Spring/Summer collection while I'm in the middle of a Winter wonderland, but I'll try. :) A little photo fun, but this truly is the real picture outside of my windows. Just want to get under the comforter, pop in a movie and flip through a knitting magazine; but knitting must be done!

This is what's left of my lace tunic. :( However, I'm using it for my current project, so it is not going to waste. I've got to get this one finished soon. Tired of looking at the same color. LOL!

This is going to be my year!

2010-02-08T16:08:00.010-05:00

I've decided that this is the year I will get some much needed and wanted things done! One of those things is to eat healthier. I want to get healthier from the inside out! I've decided to incorporate raw dishes into my diet. Today I picked up Ani Phyo's book and went grocery shopping.
I remember Susan went raw and the results were amazing! I've got to stop by her blog pick her brain for some dishes.

Here is what I'm having for dinner! Well, these are the ingredients anyway. Colorful and fun to shop for! Once I get really good at this I'll be whipping up all kinds of tasty dishes. I think it's time for that Bullet Express!

And this is the dish before I wrap it up in Collard leaves lined with "Sunny Dill Cheeze"! Now doesn't that look healthy & delicious!

Project 2010

2010-01-26T13:59:00.008-05:00

I'm back in the studio and I've decided to take on a project that I've been wanting to do for quite some time. A book! That's right a book. Just for fun! A coffee table book of sorts. It will be chock full of designs to inspire machine knitters. There are so, so very many beautiful hand-knit patterns out there that would translate so beautifully into machine knitting. So, I guess I'd better get busy knitting if I want to have something to showcase. LOL! Here's a peek of the project that I'm working on. I used the yarn from my frogged lace project. I definitely plan to get that project finished and added to the book as well. I just needed to start on a different knit for the sake of my own sanity!

Guess who's on vacation!!!

2010-01-25T12:41:00.019-05:00

Ok. So it's been a month since I posted. I promised myself that I would give my blog more time. I did, but not as much as I could have. Last year I decided to get more use out of my camera and take more artsy pics. This year I will definitely stay on it! No better place to showcase them than my blog! I will start with this. I got my hair cut and I love it! Hey, do ya happen to notice what I'm wearing??? BTW-have a project hanging on the needles right now. Photos soon!!

So brave of me to post this pic. I'm not wearing a stitch of make-up and my hair is so not done; but I love this pic. It's fun and candid.

A little fun I had with my daughter as we were getting ready to go to my sister's for movie night with her and my nephews. I love this pic too. I really like the "double" shot of her and the effect of the studio lights. My daughter keeps her camera in her purse all the time so she and her little buddies can strike a pose at a moments notice. Why not?! Great idea. So I've started doing the same!

A mom's night out at a restaurant with one of my oldest friends! We were just about to leave when I whipped out my camera and got goofy! One of my other girlfriend's informed me that my little symbol had "another" meaning. Tongue wagging and old-school piece sign! That's all it is folks! No double meanings here!!!

Merry Christmas/Frogged

2009-12-25T16:57:00.011-05:00

First, Merry Christmas to all!!!
Now on to the troublesome news. This is what all of my beautiful knitting has been reduced to. I was done knitting the front and back. Done! The collar was on and I just had to finish the armholes and seam. I tried it on and it didn't fit me properly. I needed to adjust the measurements. Well, the measurements have been adjusted, so now I need to get back to work. Santa brought me the beautiful electronic winder. Didn't know I would need to use it so soon!

I'm loving...

2009-12-07T23:54:00.004-05:00

...this beading thing! Even though it's time consuming, it's so worth it. Definitely won't be the last beaded project! Today I did a lot of running around, so no knitting. Tomorrow I will knit. Tonight I'm sitting down to "Love Jones".

Garment Jewelry

2009-12-01T11:33:00.002-05:00

You can view this video in high quality by clicking play and then click on "480p".

We Meet Again!

2009-12-01T08:34:00.005-05:00

Stopped off at the grocery store this morning to do a little shopping. Was doing real well, buying all the good-for-you things. Picked up this little fruit salad for breakfast cause I was getting hungry. Then I turned the corner...
...and there I saw an old friend! We haven't seen each other in at least a couple of years. Do you recognize them? Nabisco introduced these little devils a few years ago. (not to be confused with the mint cream Oreos) Then, as instantly as they appeared, they vanished back into the abyss; but not before...we were hooked. I instantly grabbed a box! Noticing the the "Holiday limited edition", I had the mind to grab the whole rack but...that little thing call pride got in the way. LOL! So off I went with my little box of "Umm umm good!" Soon as I got home, I had to tear open the box and make sure I wasn't fooling myself. "This is my old friend isn't it? Aahhh, indeed it is!"

Ok, let me put the rest of the groceries away. ;)

Half way there!

2009-11-17T12:12:00.009-05:00

It's a beautiful, sunny day and that's a tall order here in the midwest. I'm inspired to be productive. Got the first piece of my project pinned down today. While it's doing it's thing, I'll get started knitting the next piece.

I'm knitting!!!

2009-11-13T23:54:00.014-05:00

I've been inspired again. And yet again it's another lace project. I give up! I'm a laceaholic. There! I confess! Why fight it? Anywhoo, I loved the Lotus Blossum tank the first time I saw it. However, I fell in love all over again when I saw AnniKainen's version on Ravelry. Here it is:

You may remember that I swatched this stitch pattern a YEAR AND 1/2 AGO with the Lotus Blossum in mind. Well, I've finally decided to use it. I started knitting tonight. I wanted to get something done before I went to bed tonight. ;-)

Edwardian Collar

2009-09-05T21:22:00.003-04:00

I saw this on Ravelry and thought "OMG this is gorgeous!" But...I can't just walk around wearing a collar. So I would sew this to an existing sweater or make one that this could be a worked into. What do you guys think? Would you wear it alone or not?

Mixed Medias

2009-08-27T12:29:00.002-04:00

I found this little number on Ravelry. It is the work of TanyaO. She mixed sewing fabric with knitting, and did a very nice job I must say. A little inspiration for us all!

I Want To Make This

2009-07-13T20:16:00.004-04:00

I am in love with this. I would want to wear it just like she's wearing it here; as a dress. I also like it in the tunic version, but this is effortless. Just throw a white cotton slipdress up under it and go. Where do I get this magazine 'cause I really want to make this. (Rich More Best Eye's Collections vol.99) If you run across a site where I can purchase this mag please let me know!

Another Inspiration

2009-07-09T13:44:00.005-04:00

Ooohh! I came across this little number when I was Neecha's blog. This is beautiful! Remember that turquoise, white, and brown thread that I purchased? I do and I'm thinking I now know what to do with it! Whatta ya think?

Triple Threat!

2009-07-04T14:55:00.011-04:00

I'm going to call this one Triple Threat! This project is definitly a triple threat!It has all of my favorites; color, texture, pattern! What more could a girl ask for? I love the way this turned out. I crocheted the neckline and the armholes with a pretty shell stitch. I will definitely be wearing this one.

My Maxi

2009-06-27T17:36:00.007-04:00

Well as you know, I had all the intentions in the world to knit up a summer maxi dress. Didn't happen. Got 3/4 of the way and realized that it was too small. Wasn't about to start over! Anywho, I still pined for the Maxi & the other day I grabbed one. I was out shopping for my daughter & picked this little number up for myself. Today we went shopping again and I sported it with my little fushia handbag and flipflops. So comfortable! Love how the breeze just wisps through it. If you ladies haven't already, make sure you get at least one this season! If I was going away for vacation I would definitly wear this and pick up 6 more!!!
I know you all must think I'm crazy for posting a pic of my flip flops, but just look at these! I love paisley and this dark cholcolate & fushia print takes these flip flops to a whole new level!!!

Summer Knit

2009-06-24T17:04:00.008-04:00

I know it's been a while. But I'm so busy with...life that I haven't had much chance to knit or post. But my heart is still in it as usual.
I was inspired by this tropical number I saw online and got busy making my own interpretation of it. Can't wait till it's done!

Guess What

2009-03-08T21:54:00.005-04:00

I'm loving my project! I've decided to make the "Maxi Dress"! I'm in love love love with the maxi dresses and I don't have one for this spring/summer yet, so I'm changing that really fast. The first half of the dress is knitted and I'm getting started on the second half tomorrow. I'm already thinking about accessorizing with brown and turquoise beaded jewelry! Maybe a nice wide brown belt on the hip, matching bag and sandals. Boy! Now I've gotta find some place to go! LOL!
Update: Frogged :(

Nope! Not Gonna Happen!

2009-03-07T16:35:00.002-05:00

The thread I purchased is just too thin for jacquard; so that project isn't going to happen with this material. However, I will not let it go to waste. So I knit them all together and this is what I get. Not as interesting as the stitch pattern intended for this thread. So I'll just have to work my magic in a different way to make this garment interesting.

New Project

2009-03-06T23:48:00.007-05:00

Ok I'm finally going to knit something other than lace LOL! However, I'm very happy to say that my mk lace has been an inspiration to many mach-knitters out there and I'm starting to see more mk lace than I ever have before. Good for you girls!
I've been yearning lately to knit up a jacquard project. I can't wait to get started. My software and I worked out a beautiful argyle pattern and I purchased the threads to match. Tomorrow I will knit the swatch.

Summer Inspiration

2009-03-03T10:27:00.013-05:00

Inspiration for knitting tops and dresses this summer. I take much of my knitting inspiration from fashion. These fashions are defininitely inspiring! I've purchased white thread with intentions on knitting up a top or dress like the ones below.

Flowing Dresses

The drapiest tops:

People Magazine Cover

2009-03-03T10:04:00.004-05:00

By now I know you all have seen the latest cover of People magazine. First Lady Obama graces the cover wearing a gorgouse rose colored lace dress! This dress is beautiful. First thing I thought was how can I translate that into a knit dress? I'm still trying to figure that out.

Happy Tuesday

2009-02-24T12:01:00.003-05:00

It is a beautiful, sunny, winter day. A perfect day to model a newly knitted garment. Nothing else new yet. However, I plan to knit up several swatches today for future projects. Knitting swatches is not my favorite part. I like to have my gauge magically ready when I'm inspired to knit. Imagine that! LOL!

Kelso Finished!

2009-02-10T17:37:00.025-05:00

I'm so happy. This came out just the way I wanted it to. It fits like a dream! I haven't knitted a pattern with sleeves in quite some time. I was excited about that as well. LOL! I am very proud of this one. My daughter is pleased with it also; good thing since it was made for her.

Great News!!!

2009-02-04T12:57:00.021-05:00

This is my first sleeve in quite some time. I love tank tops and haven't knitted anything with sleeves since before I had this blog. Wow!!! Anywhoo, I'm quite proud of my little sleeve. LOL!

I knitted...

2009-01-27T17:10:00.004-05:00

...the rest of the second front panel today. Front & back are now knitted. Funny thing is, I was just about to start doing the finished knitting jig when I realized that I still have to knit the sleeves! LOL

What I've Been Up To

2009-01-26T13:11:00.006-05:00

Picked up these little beauties today. So, of course, my next project will be designed around them. It will be my first time incorporating beads into my knitwear. I can't wait! Just one more reason for me to finish my current project!

Here's what's happening with my current project: I was working on the second front panel and somehow made an unfixable mistake. Trust me, the result of what you're looking at is my futile attempt of fixing this. This happened yesterday, so today I'm over the frustration and feel ready to start it over. Sigh!

This is my Pile of Progress!!!

Window Shopping

2009-01-24T21:07:00.004-05:00

This is pretty, sexshy, and all that!

2009 Inauguration

2009-01-20T20:25:00.006-05:00

Martin Luther King Day

2009-01-19T23:12:00.006-05:00

"I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal."

Tomorrow we will be one step closer to this with the inauguration of Barack Obama as our nation's president!

I was...

2009-01-18T20:20:00.004-05:00

window shopping and ran across these interesting leg warmers by Nicky Epstein. Aren't they cute! Wow! That's just how I would wear them. With a skirt and sassy heels. Then I would have to find some place to go. LOL!

Back Is Done

2009-01-15T12:37:00.008-05:00

Again! But this time the measurements are right where I want them to be. :-)

These Three

2009-01-13T12:56:00.007-05:00

These three came to visit me.

These three I didn't want to see.

These three, as cute as can be.

Only mean one thing...Froggery!

That's right! I had gotten the back completed and was nearly done with one side of the front. After pinning it to the blocking board, my daughter and I both agreed that we would like it better longer. The original pattern comes down to your waist. She would prefer it in hip length. So I started knitting it again yesterday. I like the black sweater that I'm wearing in the photo. Used to be one of my favorites, but now it's really linty and looks old. My daughter likes the way it fits so I told her that I would have to purchase some black yarn and make her one.

Great Day To Knit

2009-01-10T11:57:00.001-05:00

The view from my living room.

Slowly But Surely...

2009-01-06T23:35:00.007-05:00

Tools of the trade: ravel cord/waste yarn.

Beautiful E-Wrap edge!

This is the back. I'm making progress. Lace takes time no matter how you're doing it.

NEW VIDEO!!!

2009-01-05T19:55:00.003-05:00

I have posted a new video demonstrating lace knitting on my machine. I've been meaning to do this for some time now. The previous video was made when I had a different lace carriage. I didn't realize it at the time, but it didn't work the way it should have and I had to knit painfully slow. No doubt it put some people off from attempting lace, but the new video is an accurate depiction of how it's done. Enjoy!

I got it back!

2009-01-03T23:04:00.003-05:00

My mojo...that is! Haven't gotten as much done as I would like to, due to the holidays. But I've gotten a lot more done than lately. My projects are showing progress. The mood has struck and I'm sure glad it's back!!!

Project in the Wings

2009-01-02T23:20:00.009-05:00

One of my resolutions this year is to be more diligent about my crafts. So I have been busy today knitting more of my cardigan and drafting the pattern for the Featherlight Lingerie Dress. I picked up a copy of Lace Style today (which, btw, was on my wish list) and got inspired all over again!

Happy New Year!!!

2009-01-01T16:58:00.029-05:00

It's been a busy month to say the least. On the 30th my daughter had her birthday; five days after Christmas. We continued celebrating by taking a family trip New York to see the ball drop for New Years Eve. We spent the whole day in Manhattan and did a lot of siteseeing before the big event later that night. It was nice because the holiday spirit was still very much alive in New York. All the stores were still beautifully decorated. There was all the holiday hustle and bustle...well...it is, afterall, New York.

My son and daughter on the bus sleep./We're riding through the Lincoln Tunnel.

Empire State Building

There we are in Grand Central. There was a holographic lighting show going on. Pretty!

The beautiful window dressings at Lord & Taylors. You can't tell by looking at them, but most of these window dressings were in motion. Yep! They were moving. It was so cool to look at!!!
Final Destination: Times Square! Pretty good spot eh!

Coming along...

2008-12-27T22:59:00.009-05:00

Working on two projects, but I'm enjoying it. Just started knitting my cardigan today. I wanted to get more knitted today, but I'm glad I at least got it started. Done knitting tonight. I will knit more tomorrow. Gonna curl up with my crochet now. It's coming along nicely.

New Project

2008-12-26T19:16:00.016-05:00

I've received my yarn for my new project. I've got the swatch done and out of the way. I'm going to make the Kelso Lace cardigan.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T14:18:00.001-05:00

...and happy holidays to all!

Blogging

2008-12-15T15:14:00.013-05:00

I absolutely love blogging, but you'd never know it because I only blog when I'm knitting/crocheting. Well, because I have been rather lax with my crafts, I haven't blogged much. I've decided that I will incorporate my non-crafts into my blog also. This way we can keep in touch more often and I can do more of what I love to do; take pictures and blog them! I have been busy with my X-mas shopping and I just couldn't resist buying a little something for myself. I love handbags so I just couldn't resist while I was out with my son yesterday evening as I accompanied him on his outings I found myself in the handbag department. How'd I get there? Anywho, I walked out with the beautiful signature T-Time bag by Tignanello. Today, I just had to venture out again for the matching wallet and ended up coming home with the little red beauties you see in the photos. I had to order the brown wallet, and I can wait for it to arrive. How bad am I? Oh well, I've wrapped the red ones up and put them under the tree. The T-Time is already on my arm (giggle) and will go well with the cream knit that I'm currently working on. I see red, browns, creams in my future knitting!

Been a while...

2008-12-09T15:18:00.005-05:00

...since my last post. My last two projects bored me stiff, so I frogged them and on to another. I will post pics when I finish my project. I think I have enough UFOs on this site. Don't need another. It's been so cold, and I'm more of a warm-weather-knitter as strange as that may sound to some. My latest FOs have all been summer knits. Time for a sweater perhaps. LOL!

Coming Along

2008-09-23T20:29:00.006-04:00

This particular stitch is tighter and requires very many rows so it's not a ~~fast~~ knit just for that reason. It would help if I was in the knitting mood lately. I've been in the designing mood, but not so much the knitting mood. Especially since having a very menacing cold. :( But I'm making sure I do some knitting everyday.

First Day Of Knitting

2008-09-21T20:05:00.005-04:00

Definite Change In Plan!!

2008-09-19T20:16:00.003-04:00

Ok back to my first project idea. This yarn is definitely too thin for the sweater dress. The fabric is much too holey for a winter knit. Not a problem. I will knit up that beautiful tank dress that I originally was going to knit. I thought this yarn would be too thick for that and now I realize that it would be perfect. Always good to have several things going on in the ole noggin. ;) I will have to order a sport weight yarn and knit this sweaterdress. The tank dress will go quickly so I should be working on this in no time.

Slight Change In Plan

2008-09-15T12:42:00.003-04:00

I've decided to try and knit this beauty first. It's that time of the year to start wearing thicker knits and by the time I finished knitting it, I could wear it. I made this decision because I bought a fingering weight yarn and would prefer to use a size 10 thread for the tank dress below. However, the fingering weight would be perfect for the sweaterdress here. I've had my eye on this one for quite a while now. Time to knit it up!

It's here!

2008-09-11T23:08:00.002-04:00