Crafting for Charity

Blankets

2011-05-06T15:28:00.000-07:00

I love crocheting blankets. I think they are the most fun to crochet and work up so much faster than knitting them. And one more bonus ... crochet uses up more yarn than knitting does. If you have seen my "stash" then you know I need to use up some yarn! But that doesn't seem to stop me from purchasing more when there is a good deal to be had :)

This first blanket is from the pattern Easy Ripple Afghan by SusanB. I chained 98 to produce a blanket that is 29" x 32". I love the pink, green and white together. So much so that I bought yarn from JoAnns that is the same colourway and made this next blanket from it.

The yarn is JoAnns Sensations Little Treat and is really nice and soft. The yarn does all the colour changing so no extra tails to weave in at the end. The pattern is Lovely Lattice Baby Blanket by Diana Richie. It is available from the Heavenly An gels In Need forum.

Finally, the last blanket I've finished in the past month or so is Blanket for Baby made with JoAnns Sensations Little Treat yarn as well. This time in blue, green and white. This is the third time I've made this pattern so it must be good. I usually don't make anything more than once because I get bored. I think I chained about 100 for a finished blanket of 22" x 25".

All three of these blankets will go to NILMDTS photographers to use in their angel sessions.

Currently on the needles is the Wool Eater Blanket made with many leftover balls of 100% wool yarn. I'm sending this one to Pine Ridge Hospital Maternity Ward in SD when it's done. Picture next time.

Enjoy the rest of May and I hope that the weather where you are is much better than it is here in the PNW. So rainy and grey but good knitting/crocheting weather!

Knitting Tuesday

2011-04-12T16:23:00.000-07:00

On Tuesdays I go to a knitting group at a local yarn shop. We knit hats and scarves for Operation School Bell through the Assistance League. After knitting for an hour and a half or so we go for lunch. Since I'm a stay at home mom it's nice to be able to get out and meet with other women of like craftiness to chat about life. Currently I'm working on a scarf.

Last week I gave in a bought the baby knitting book 60 Quick Baby Knits from the LYS. It has such adorable patterns for newborn up to 24 month size though I think some of the items would fit much larger toddlers. Of course I put all the other projects I was working on aside and had to knit the sweater pattern on the cover. And also this cute hat.

Of course I then proceeded to cast on for another baby sweater with some fair isle on the bottom of it. Both the sweater and hat pictured are going to Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota.

On the quilting front I'm working on a quilt by McKenna Ryan called Faith, Hope, and Love. It is so pretty. One day it will be finished!

2 years is a long time ...

2011-03-29T08:14:00.001-07:00

I'm amazed at how many people are still coming to this site even though I haven't posted in over 2 years. How time flies by. Of course I'm still doing all kinds of crafts and have relearned how to crochet. I was taught by my mom when I was probably 12 or 13 and didn't do much of it. I still have the scarf and hat I made as my first project. My mom kept them for me:)

I really haven't been doing much quilting lately. Since I'm not doing our charity quilt group at church I just haven't had much motivation to do much. Mom's quilt guild has an annual quilting retreat in February and I went again this year. Pieced and sandwiched a large queen size quilt. And here it sits in my pile of "to do" projects waiting to be quilted.

The most exciting news (for me anyway) is that 3 of my quilts were accepted into a small art show. They will be hanging there for 2 months. This is a first for me to have quilts in an actual art show.

The dragonfly quilt is hand appliqued and a pattern from Pacific Rim Quilt Company.

In the Fall Leaves Quilt I did machine embroidery on hand dyed fabric and then cut the leaves out, machine appliqueing them onto the background. The piecing is done with Japanese fabrics, most from old kimonos.

And the last quilt is pieced from Japanese fabrics I bought on our trip to Japan in 2008.

Maybe I won't wait another 2 years to post again!

Ribbon Edged Preemie Blanket

2009-02-22T15:25:00.000-08:00

Ribbon Edged Preemie Baby Blanket

Finished Size: 12” x 12” (20” x 20”)
Yarn: Fingering Weight (Worsted Weight)
Needles: 3.25mm (4.5mm)
Gauge: Not important but approximately 30sts/inch (20sts/inch)

Abbreviations:
K = knit
P = purl
k2tog = knit two stitches together
tbl = through the back of the loop
yo = yarn over

Lace Shells:
Row 1: K1, yo, *k5, slip the 2nd, 3rd, 4rth and 5th stitches over the first stitch, yo; Repeat from * to last stitch, k1
Row 2: P1, *(p1, yo, k1tbl) in the next stitch, p1; Repeat from * to end
Row 3: K2, k1tbl, *k3, k1tbl; Repeat from * to last 2 stitches, k2
Row 4: Knit
Row 5: K1, *yo, k2tog; Repeat from * to end
Row 6: Knit
Row 7: K1, *yo, k2tog; Repeat from * to end
Row 8: Knit
Row 9: K17, k2tog, k18, k2tog, k17, k2tog, k18, k2tog, knit to end

Garter Stripes:
Row 1 (wrong side): (K3, P2); Repeat to last 3 sts, k3
Row 2: Knit

Blanket:
Cast on 117 stitches.
Work Lace Shells pattern.
Should have 93 stitches after all rows worked.

Work rows 1 and 2 of Garter Stripes pattern until blanket measures 11” (18”) ending with Row 2. Or however long you want your blanket to be. The lace edging is approximately 1” (1 ½”) wide.
Place all stitches on a holder or cast off (see finishing section to choose which you prefer).

Cast on 117 stitches.
Work Lace Shells pattern. Should have 93 stitches after all rows worked.
Leave these stitches on the needle or cast off (see finishing section to choose which you prefer).

Finishing:
To join the Lace Shells section to the blanket you can use the 3 needle bind off, kitchener stitch or sew the two cast off edges together.
Weave in ends.
Thread ribbon through the two sets of eyelet holes on each end of the blanket.

Orphanage in Africa

2009-02-20T13:37:00.000-08:00

I have to confess that I haven't been doing much charity work lately. And I haven't been good at keeping up this blog. Probably lots of other stuff too, but you don't want to hear all my whining LOL! I can't say I will get any better at either of them but I keep telling myself even one item is a huge blessing to one person (or a family) that wouldn't have been possible before I donated it.

What I really want to tell you about is my sister. She and her family are staying in South Africa for 4 months while her husband works at a medical clinic. My sister has been helping at an orphanage near her house twice a week since they've been there. It is an amazing place and the pictures she posts on her blog - From Canada to Sundumbili - are really great. She is helping with the kids but also trying to drum up donations for Ikhaya LikaBaba Orphanage She writes on her blog that it is a real uphill battle since the need in South Africa is so great and the number of businesses that can afford to donate supplies and money are so small. If you would be interested in mailing baby and toddler clothes, baby items, health care items the address to send the items to is on the Ikhaya LikaBaba website. You can also make monetary donations from their website as well. I sent one package and it took about 2 1/2 weeks to get there. I am planning to sew up a few more blankets and pick up some more outfits from the discount stores to mail in the coming weeks.

Have you read the book "The Shack"?? If not, I highly recommend reading it! It is an amazing story and really touched my life. It has given me a different perspective on life in a few areas and made me realize I need to be a bit less "structured" and "controlling". I think that is one of the reasons I haven't been making quite so many charity items lately. I new I really needed a bit of a break but the "guilt" kept getting in the way of the break time. I know not everyone agrees but I think I need to make some things for me and my family as well as for others. I kept having that nagging thought that I don't "need" anything and there are so many who do need things that I couldn't make anything for me. I found myself being overwhelmed by the needs of the world and wanting to fix everything - which is completely impossible on my own. I hate seeing people suffer and, if I could, I would make it all better (like everyone else would) but I can't. So I need to chill out and relax a bit. I really am enjoying spinning and knitting and sewing more since I've relaxed a bit --- though some of my friends would say "not enough"!

So what have I been doing since the last blog posting. More spinning ....

Green/Teal yarn is two ply handspun 100% merino. Probably about a sport weight yarn and I have no idea what to do with it. I have 315 yards of it but it is really bright. I could just save it to squish every now and again.

This grey/blue/tan yarn is 50% merino and 50% silk three ply using the navajo plying method. It's a bit heavier than the green but still a sport weight. I started to make socks with it but not sure that's what I really want to make. You can see what the fiber looks like before spinning in the background. It's called "sea mist".

The brown/teal/blue yarn still on the spool is roving purchased from FatCatKnits on etsy and is called Eureka Springs - 100% merino and nice and soft. It's spinning up beautifully. I also purchased some other merino roving that is dyed with natural plant material and I want to do one ply of that with 2 plys of this Eureka Springs. Love experimenting with colour so looking forward to how that will turn out. I don't have the natural dyed roving yet (maybe today) and it's purchased from NatchWoolie on Etsy as well.

This dark brown yarn is spun from 50% sheep wool and 50% alpaca. I thought it would be much softer than it is, but it will be super great for the sweater I'm making. I purchased 2lbs of it to spin and have spun about 1lb of it already. It is 2 ply and about worsted weight. I tried 3plying it but didn't like how it felt so I went with the 2ply yarn. The sweater I'm making from it is called Gaelic Mist by Lisa Lloyd in her book A Fine Fleece. Wonderful book with so many neat patterns. She lists requirements for handspun yarn and also suggests a commercially available yarn to use as well. I can see myself making more patterns from her book.

And I finished my first handspun/handknit socks. This is the cable twist sock pattern from Hello Yarn. The pattern is very easy and the socks turned out lovely with a bit of shine in the yarn from the bamboo. I'm really happy with them and they feel good to wear.

I also went on a quilt retreat with my mom. It was so much fun to spend time with my mom doing something that we both enjoy a lot. I finally finished my queen size quilt and it is not proudly displayed on my bed. That's the biggest quilt I've ever made and it really wasn't hard to quilt it on my table top Bernina. I also made a small wall hanging from some of the Japanese fabric I purchased from Japan last June. I will post pictures next time (and hopefully it won't be a month from now).

And I'm working on knitting a baby blanket. It's a really great stitch pattern and I'll post that next time as well.

Getting Better

2009-01-13T09:08:00.000-08:00

... at spinning that is. I finished knitting my first handspun yarn (the blue and grey plied stuff from the last post) into a pillow for our family room. I was short a tiny bit so I spun a bit more so I could finish the pillow.

My second try at spinning was to spin up this 100% wool yarn that I bought from The Weaving Works in Seattle called Mojave. It was such a pretty red with orange, gold, and purple bits throughout. It is so soft that you can't even tell it is wool. At least compared to the first stuff I spun, which you couldn't use next to your skin. Very rough stuff, but easy to spin since it sticks together so well.

This is turning into Aibhlinn and is about 1/2 way finished. I can sure tell that I got better at spinning since the first ball was quite thick (probably bulky weight) and now this next ball has very thin areas that could be fingering weight and definitely sport weight. I started with 8oz of fiber and ended up with 378 yards of yarn.

A few weeks ago I went to St. Distaff's day in Lake Stevens, WA. There were lots of spinners there and vendors too. I bought two 4oz "hunks" (what do you call it anyway?) of roving that was hand dyed by Emma of DragonFibers.

The first is 100% BFL called Potluck. Very, very soft and squishy and the colours that I love. Teal, blue, green, and a bit of gold/yellow. My daughter wanted to keep it all braided up and use it as a scarf LOL!

The second is 60 merino 30 bamboo and 10 nylon and is specifically for socks. And ooohhhh so squishy, soft, and SLIPPERY - yikes! It was a challenge to spin, that's for sure!

After spinning 8oz of roving and only getting 378 yards I was thinking there was no way I was going to get enough yardage to make socks out of only 4oz. I ended up with two pretty full bobbins and I had a ray of hope that I would have enough.

Forging on, I plied the two bobbins together and at the end of it all ended up with 362 yards of sport weight (for the most part) yarn. Enough for a pair of socks.

Now I am wondering if the yarn is strong enough for socks. Looking at the singles, they looked like they had lots of twist - I tried to add extra because I knew the yarn needs to be sturdy for socks. After plying the singles seem to loose all their twist and the resulting yarn is fluffy. Logic says this is because you ply in the opposite direction to spinning the single, but I'm really not sure. Anyway, I'm chalking this all up to learning experience and will make Cable Twist Socks from the yarn and see how they wear.

I had some yarn left of one of the bobbins so I attempted to Navajo ply the rest of this yarn. That is definitely a challenge. But I loved how the yarn came out. It was plied much tighter than the 2 ply I did and would have made a much better yarn for the socks. The only problem is you use up more yarn because it ends up being 3ply rather than 2ply.

As you can see there is no knitting pictures, no charity pictures, nothing other than spinning! I'M ADDCITED!!! It really is fun and enjoyable!

Almost the New Year

2008-12-30T15:50:00.001-08:00

Wow! How time flies. It seems like I was just wishing everyone a Happy New Year for 2008 and here it is almost 2009. We did have a busy year but I must say it was a very good year for our family. We got to see new sights, we all stayed fairly healthy (just the odd cold and such) and we had food and a roof over our heads. Pretty good all around.

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas holiday and you were spoiled rotten! You deserve it!!

My wonderful husband bought me a spinning wheel for Christmas this year - yippeee! I've kind of waffled back and forth between wanting one and not. I could learn a new skill and make some more pretty fiber with it but at the same time, it means one more crafty project to take up space (and money) in our house. I guess that's the practical side of me talking. Don't get me wrong, I'm very happy that he gifted me with it! Also a big bag of unknown sheep fiber to spin into yarn. Here's my first attempt. Not too bad, but not very good either.

Ok, here's my second attempt. The grey is what I got with the wheel (and my second attempt at spinning) and the navy blue (my third attempt at spinning) I bought at Weaving Works in Seattle --- yes, we made a trip there yesterday! I also picked up some very pretty multi-coloured yarn to spin later.

I must say, the fiber makes all the difference in the world. The grey unknown wool is actually easier to spin than the navy. I'm not sure why, but it seems the navy fiber is more "kinked" and maybe has shorter strands than the grey.

So then I plied (is it plied or plyed?) the two singles together and got this. A whole skein of navy and white yarn. It averages out to about DK weight but I have no idea how much yarn is there. Maybe 150 yards .... just by looking at another DK weight ball of yarn I have here.

I'm pretty excited about it and want to knit it into something but I have no idea what??? It's not very soft since the grey single was really overspun but it doesn't look too bad. I'm probably my own worst critique.

As for knitting ...
* I finished two hats to send to Sandy for the Bridge Project. Last post I said I was knitting a scarf which I ripped out and decided to make hats instead. Didn't like the way the scarf was coming out.
* I finished the baby sweater I was making for my girlfriend whose baby is due anytime now.
* I'm almost finished my socks. Just working on the toe of the second sock.
* Gloves are still at the same spot they were last post
* Adult sweater is worked on just a tiny bit. Down to the ribbing in the body. Next are the sleeves.

Happy New Year everyone! See you in 2009.

We Have Snow

2008-12-19T05:21:00.000-08:00

After all the hype last week of a major snow event we finally received a significant amount yesterday. At our house we have 9" when I checked last night. It was still snowing then so we may have a bit more than that now. It's nice powdery snow - not the wet slushy stuff we usually get - which means it's cold. Only 23 this morning and supposed to be even colder tonight. Now I know for a lot of you that's not cold, but here in Western Washington it's cold!

This is me, our Golden Retriever Rio and our Shitzu/Poodle Benji. I don't think I ever posted a picture of Sheep and Wool hat I knit last month, but here it is being used!

I have a couple of quilt pictures for you. The first - Starry Nights - was a Planet Patchwork free block of the month quilt that they had probably 3 or 4 years ago. Of course I changed it. I didn't like the middle of their quilt so I did my own paper pieced and appliqued star. It's a little small for a queen size bed but I like how it turned out.

The second quilt is one I am working on - or planning to work on that is. The top is finished, it's basted and ready to quilt. The problem is it's huge (96" x 92") and a little daunting. I'm also not sure how I'm going to quilt it. I designed the pattern in EQ6 and it's almost all 1/2 square triangles - yikes! Can you tell that teal and purples are my favourite colours? And I used almost all fabric from my stash (except for the white and one of the borders), yippee! Unfortunately it didn't seem to make a dent in the stash - how many quilts can you make from stash fabric anyway?!?

On the knitting front, I have too many projects "on the needles" again. Seems like almost every time I post I've started something new!

Every Tuesday we have a charity group that meets at Cultured Purls in Issaquah to knit for Operation School Bell. A couple of weeks ago we were there and the owner brought this basket of knit fabric to us and told us that this was to make socks. What a cool idea - I just needed to try it out. Flat Feet is a fun way to knit socks. You purchase the preknit fabric that is hand painted, unravel one end, and start knitting your socks. Here is the fabric I bought (teals and purple again) and the first sock knit up. What makes it fun it you have no idea what the colour patterning on the sock will look like until you start knitting. Of course I couldn't wait to start!

Also on the needles .....
* Baby sweater for a friend. Working on the last sleeve so should be done by next post.
* Adult sweater for charity. Working on the colour work at the bottom of the body and then need to knit the sleeves.
* Scarf for The Bridge Project. This is a project that Sandy started a few weeks ago. Her goal is to have 100 hats and scarves for the homeless in her area. Great idea Sandy!!
* Anemore gloves. Both the hands are knit and am working on the fingers. I think I will make mittens next time!
* And not started yet, but my daughter really wants a pair of these - Knucks - with the letters CRE8 LOVE on the fingers. Maybe next winter.

I also want to wish all of you a very Merry Christmas. Enjoy the holidays with your family and friends. Until 2009 ....

What I've Been Up To

2008-12-05T12:45:00.000-08:00

Looks like I'm posting about once a month at the moment. Maybe I will have the desire to post more in January ... should I make it a New Years resolution? Probably not since we all know how long most resolutions last. You will have to bare with my sporadic posting at the moment (if anyone even comes here to see what I'm doing ).

Alright, onto the good stuff. I've been trying to cut up and sew up the wedding gowns I have here taking up space. At one point I think I had 4 gowns sitting in boxes around my room. In the past month one gown has been completely used up and another is almost used up. I think I will try to make a couple of small blankets from the rest of the gown I have. I seem to end up with lots of little gowns and not so many blankets.

The two sewn gowns are from the Newborns In Need pattern set #3. The pattern makes beautiful gowns to fit 2-3lb preemie angels. The other picture with 4 gowns is made from a pattern I designed. They open in the front so the tiniest of angels can be easily placed in the gown and then velcroed closed. These gowns fit approximately 1lb preemie angels.

The pink blanket is knit with two strands of yarn held together. I used Patons Astra and Patons Pearl Twist (no longer available). And size 6.0mm needles so the blanket works up fast. This one turned out to be 30" x 30". I also knit a blue one (which I didn't get a picture of) and it came out to be 29" x 29". The pattern is Brooke Baby Afghan by Ann V. Gallentine.

All these items were mailed today to a couple of NILMDTS (Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep) photographers.

Have I been doing anything for me? Of course! I always have stuff going that I want to make for myself but the charity items usually take the front seat so my stuff takes for ever to complete.

A while ago I bought the Selbuvotter book. It is full of mitten and glove patterns from Norway. My grandfather was born and grew up in Norway before moving to Canada so these patterns always have a special place in my heart. I chose to do Annemor #8 from the book using Jojoland Melody and Knitpicks Pallette for the yarn. This picture was taken a while ago and as of now, one glove is almost finished. This is not a "knit in front of the tv" project. It takes lots of concentration (for me anyway) and no interruptions.

Other projects (without pictures) that I'm working on are --- sweater for Mittens for Akkol, scarves for Operation School Bell, and a quilt for my bed.

If I don't get another post in before Christmas, I want to wish all of you a very merry Christmas and I pray that God will bless you with much abundance and health in the New year!!!

Baby Stuff

2008-11-01T09:57:00.000-07:00

Well, one definitely can say that I'm not very consistent! That's probably the story of my life lately. I have these wonderful ideas that I want to do and actually start but never seem to be able to follow through. I have completed a couple of projects, so that is something.

First up, and most recently finished are 6 preemie hats. These are teeny, tiny. Fitting 20 to 24 week preemie angels. A NILMDTS Photographer has a few crocheted gowns and didn't have any hats to go with them. I'm hoping these will work for her.

Specifics --- knit with 2.75mm needles and Patons Beehive Sport yarn.
The blue cabled hat is Cabled Preemie Hat by Marie Wright. I think you need to be on ravelry to get the pattern.
The rest of the hats I made up on the fly. The pink one is made with the "chevron rib" stitch.

Next, I finished a baby sweater for a friend who is having a new baby in January. Another little boy is on the horizon for them.
This sweater is knit from Superwash 100%wool Baby Ull and 2.75mm needles. The pattern is a free Drops Designs pattern, including jacket, hat, socks, mitts, blanket, and rattle. I'm only making the jacket and hat.

And in the quilting realm, I'm actually working on a couple of projects. I finished this quilt for Encompass's preschool kids. It will be given out (with many others) next September.
Remember this quilt (Feb. 14th 2007 post) that I commented about starting. Well 1 1/2 years later I've finished the top. It's huge (for me) at 90" x 96" and will need to take it to our quilting group meeting on Friday in order to layer and baste it. Hopefully I have enough pins. I'll try to take a picture or two there and post it at another time.

And the last sewing project is a dress and bonnet made from a wedding gown. A wonderful woman who lost her daughter, Brooke at 37.5 weeks asked if I would make something from her gown in memory of her daughter. I hope she will be able to treasure this gift and it would bring her hope and a little joy in the midst of her grief. There is still lots of fabric left from her gown to make a few angel sets. More sewing in my future.

NILMDTS

2008-09-29T10:37:00.000-07:00

What do those letters represent, you might ask ... well they stand for Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep and it's a group of photographers all over the world (mostly in the US) that volunteer their time to take pictures of babies, with their families, who are angels or are soon to be angels because of medical conditions. The service that they provide is truly a blessing to these families who will only leave the hospital with pictures of their little one and empty arms - really heart breaking.

So, why am I talking about this? No, I'm not a photographer but I am able to sew and knit so I make teeny tiny preemie outfits up to newborn size outfits for these photographers to use during their photo sessions. There is a group of us who volunteer our time, money, and talents to make these outfits and mail them where they are needed. Our group is called Heavenly Angels In Need (HAIN - yet another acronym) and is led by a wonderful lady named Mary. Most of us have experienced the loss of a baby so can understand the grief and pain these families are experiencing.

Another wonderful aspect of HAIN is our ability to use wedding gowns that are donated to us to make these precious angels outfits.

I've included two pictures of gowns I made from a donated wedding dress. The two gowns are for preemies less than 1 lb and are about 10" from the neck to the hem. They open in the front so the preemie can be laid onto the gown and the gown then closed with Velcro.
The larger dress is for a 4 to 5lb preemie and is made from a Newborns In Need pattern.

I designed a knit blanket that can either be preemie or newborn size depending on the yarn and needle size you use. You will need to sign up on the HAIN forum if you would like the blanket pattern.

And these beautiful angel wraps work well for preemies smaller than 1lb. I knit these with Bernat Softee Baby and size 3.5mm needles. You can find the pattern for these on LucyBug Patterns website. There is also a crocheted version of the angel wrap.

No, I Haven't Left

2008-09-15T13:57:00.000-07:00

... blog land that is. I sure haven't been very good at keeping up with this. No posts in August and it is almost the middle of September - yikes!

We had a wonderful vacation trailer camping down the Oregon coast, Crater Lake, and then to the lava fields in Bend, OR. It is the longest we've been away in our trailer (2 weeks) and I'm happy to say that we all survived the trip :) In fact I think we would all say we had a great time. The weather was perfect and the sites were amazing.

* Playing in the waves at Fort Stevens, OR.
* Hundreds of seals at Sunset Bay, OR
* Crater Lake, OR
* Lava tunnel near Bend, OR

As for knitting and sewing, I've got lots finished and as always, many projects started. I'm most excited about the sweater I'm knitting from the yarn I purchased in Japan. The knitting is finished but that is it. I still need to sew the neckline, weave in the ends, sew under the sleeves, and find some buttons.

Yarn: Diaexceed SilkMohair
Needles: 3.25mm and 3.75mm
Pattern: 88-17 Cardigan in Alpaca by Drops Designs

More Finished Objects

2008-07-22T07:12:00.000-07:00

Can you believe that I will have posted 3 times in July. That must be a new record since I didn't even post once in June. And I have more crafty things that I have finished to share with you.

First up is Roam. Yes, it is finally finished. I started this in September last year after my wonderful husband bought me yarn for our anniversary. I am not sure why it took so long to finish since I absolutely love it. It is warm, squishy, has a hood, zips up. The only thing I can think of is that it is a big project with a stitch pattern other than stockinette or garter. I tend to get bored easily so I would put it down and not work on it for months at a time.

Pattern: Roam by Laura Chau found on knitty.com
Yarn: Berroco Ultra Alpaca. I used 7 skeins because I made both the body and the sleeves shorter than what the pattern calls for.
Needles: Size 4mm
Pattern Stitch: Garter Slip Stitch V

Onto some charity stuff. I've been knitting hats for the Assistance League of the Eastside. I thought I had written about this wonderful group but I don't see anything in my quick scroll through the blog.
One of the projects this group has is to partner with Fred Meyer and provide a hat or scarf to over 2,100 school kids in October. Fred Meyer provides new school clothing and when the kids are done shopping they can pick out a hand knit scarf or hat for themselves. And it helps kids that are close to where I live. You can find out more about Operation School Bell from the website.

This hat is the 3am Cable Hat by Smariek. Knit with Patons Astra acrylic yarn. I have a few more hats to show you but they aren't photographed yet. You will just have to wait until next time!

And lastly, I've been doing some sewing. I have almost used up a huge wedding dress that was given to me to use for Heavenly Angels In Need.
It seems that the fabric from this dress is never ending --- not that that is a bad thing, it's just that I get bored and want to move on to another dress that I have which has more beading and lacy trims.

There are actually 5 boys romper outfits but one wasn't finished for the picture. It is the same as the larger two that are pictures. The pattern is from Newborns In Need Patterns Set #3. I love this pattern since it is easy to put together and looks so "boyish". I find it hard to find less frilly outfits for the boys. The smaller outfit will fit a 2-3lb preemie and the larger ones are newborn size.

The 5 dresses and bonnets are also made from the same wedding dress. I used all the fancy beading and lace on these gowns and saved the plain fabric for the boys outfits.

The two gowns on the right are made from the Angel Gown pattern found on Newborns In Need website and the three on the left are made from a pattern found on the Threads Of Love website. I chose not to add the sleeves and just use bias tape to finish the sleeve seams. Some of the hospitals and photographers that use these gowns have asked us to make the gowns sleeveless or with larger arm holes so that the babies are easier to dress.

Note about Heavenly Angels In Need Website: Currently the website is down while it is being redesigned. Please check back in a few days to see the new and improved site!

F is for Family and Finished Objects

2008-07-15T19:57:00.000-07:00

Yes, finally some knitting (and a bit of sewing) pictures and talk. It's been a while....

But first, family. After we returned from Japan my sister had organized a family reunion on my Dad's side. It was only 5 days after our long flight and amazing vacation that I drove 7 hours to the Okanagan in BC, Canada to visit with family that I hadn't seen in ages. Karen (my sister) put together this awesome poster (actually 3 posters) with our family tree and pictures of everyone starting with my grandparents. It was so cool and totally awesome to see. This is the first poster with my grandparents and then some family pictures. I am in the one on the top left, second from the left in the back, though it is very hard to see --- do you like my permed hair LOL! Thank you so much for all you did, Karen!! We had an awesome time.

And while in Penticton, we went to the Grist Mill which is in Keremeos. It was very hot and humid and the mill wasn't open when we went. But we did walk around and see the water wheel and inside where the flour would be ground. If you go to the website and scroll down to the picture with the people standing in front of the mill, my Dad is the one on the left and I am standing on the far right. How cool to find that we are actually in the picture! Oh and there was a lama farm next to the mill with some very friendly lamas. Isn't he cute ...

Onto the knitting stuff. First up is a raglan sweater with stranded colour work around the yoke. I have this sweatshirt that I just love because it is extra big and cozy and I wanted a knit sweater like that. I know it isn't the most flattering but, for me, I will take comfortable over fitted.

The pattern is mostly the 97-24 Drops Design knit with Tahki Donegal Tweed (teal)and Chester Farms Pride of the Flock (natural) wool yarn on size 4.5mm needles. I changed the pattern by not doing the stranded work in the body and added a cabled rib on all the cuffs and neck. I am not really happy with the cast off on the neck and I may undo it and try making a facing for it instead. In any case, I consider it finished.

Next is my handsome devil socks from six sox knitalong. These turned out great and they are sooo comfy on my feet. Now it just needs to get colder so I can actually wear them. Now don't get me wrong, I'm not wishing this wonderful sunny, warm weather away --- I love the heat, not the cold!!

Knit with Elann Sock It to Me 4 Ply and Plymouth Yarn Sockotta Sock Yarn on 2 size 2.5mm circular needles. Love this pattern and may use it for some mittens. It is not stranded but a slip stitch pattern so you only use one colour at a time. Makes it much easier but looks like it was very complicated.

No sewing pictures this time ... they will have to wait until next post along with some other charity knitting I've been doing. Guess I took the "balance" thing to heart and actually made some things for me. But I have been working, really I have ....

J for June and Japan

2008-07-08T16:23:00.000-07:00

Wow!! I can't believe that I didn't even post one time in June. Where in the world did the time go. I mean, I know I was busy traveling and doing "end of school" stuff with my kids, but really ..... There's been so much happening that I don't even really know where to start.

We went to Japan. My DH needed to go for work so we extended the time he was there and my kids and I went with him. We had never been before and it was a real adventure. Not many people spoke English, there were lots and lots of people in Tokyo and during the week we were the only "foreigners" on the trains. We definitely stuck out!!

Of course I had to do some craft shopping. There was an amazing store called Yuzawaya in Tokyo with many different buildings and many floors in each building. A crafters paradise!! I found some fabric, though they were only in small pieces, some yarn called Diaexceed (silk, mohair blend), and a Let's Knit Series Summer 2008 knitting pattern book.

When my DH was working my girls and I went to the Imperial Palace's East Garden. All the iris' were in bloom and it was so pretty and peaceful. An oasis in a very busy and crowded city!

And we got to experience the "Japanese Toilet". Hmmm ... I don't think my kids were to impressed that they needed to squat --- make sure your clothes are out of the way too!! LOL!!

We then went to Kyoto for a few days. We took the "bullet train" Nozomi. It went really fast and was expetionally comfortable compared to the airplane we took over there! We explored a few temples and did a lot of walking.

When we had checked the weather forcast before we went it was supposed to be cloudy and rainy the whole time we were there so I didn't bring any sunscreen. Luckily for us the weather was the complete opposite, but it was a challenge to find sunscreen there. Nothing is in english .... so you really didn't know what you were getting!! We did finally find some though so I didn't burn to a crisp.

We had a really good time and I would go back to explore more of the countryside and smaller villages!

I have some FOs (finished objects) to show you but I will do that next time! Hopefully in the next week or so :)

B is for Blankets and Balance

2008-05-24T14:59:00.000-07:00

I see that this post is a little more timely than last time. At least I will have 2 posts listed in May ...

Blankets --- knit, quilted, cheater. I think I like sewing and quilting the best out of the three. These will all be donated to hospitals or NILMDTS photographers when I get them packaged up. But my quandary is where do you send blankets when it is summer in most parts of the US? Can hospitals still use them or do they have room to store them until cooler weather approaches?

Heavenly Angels In Need has a spreadsheet which lists hospitals and photographers with needs. There are so many and I have so few blankets ... how to choose where to send them. Do you find that the need overwhelms you at times? I sure do ... I can get discouraged at the thought of not doing enough, working harder, making more things ... all this at the expense of my family and friends. I can find myself ignoring friends, not keeping commitments, telling my kids I don't have time because I want to sew. Not good for them or for me!

In some sense this is good because it gives me the drive to make items to help those who are grieving or can't afford things for their baby. But what it really points out to me is that I always need to be checking the balance in my life. Am I keeping things on a fairly even keel or is one part of my life taking over ...

This scripture has also been helpful: Jesus is speaking to the disciples after Mary had poured very expensive perfume on Jesus' head ... "The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them any time you want. But you will not always have me." Mark 14:7. The disciples were appalled that Mary would waste the perfume when she could have sold it and used the money to help the poor.

I can really use this in my own life. My kids will only be the age they are once and my biggest mission should be to raise them up in the way of the Lord. It all comes down to balance ...

S is for Socks and Sweater

2008-05-14T09:05:00.000-07:00

Wow, it's been more than a month since I posted last and I am really getting a pile of finished items ready to donate. Most of the items are going to Heavenly Angels In Need (HAIN) and a couple are going to Mittens For Akkol (M4A). This is the first time I have knit anything for M4A and all the ladies on the yahoo group seem very nice and willing to help!

So onto "S" is for socks and sweater. First up a pair of socks for me ... yes I do actually finish some things for myself and my family! Not often though.

These are Jaywalkers, a free knitting pattern that used to be on Magknits (which is no longer online). If you are part of Ravelry you can download the pattern from their pattern library. Knit with 2.25mm needles and Pagewood Farm Denali Hand Dyed Sock Yarn. Very nice and machine washable too.

Next, a pair of large socks for M4A. These are from the pattern Sandal Sox by Sharon Philbrick. Knit with leftover worsted weight yarn, they knit up really quick on 3.5mm needles. They have ties around the top of the sock that you can tighten so they stay up since there is no ribbing up there. I think I made them bigger than the pattern by casting on 48sts and making the foot length 10.5" long.

M4A is having a sock challenge for most of the year. They are trying to knit socks for 2 orphanages in Kazakhstan. Check out their website if you want to help.

Finally, a sweater also destined for M4A. Pretty wild looking in the picture, but it looks much calmer (and prettier) in real life. Knit with Ella Rae's 100% wool yarn on size 4.5mm needles. I used Margaret Hubert's top down knitting pattern for women's size small. It is about 33" around ... too small for me but should fit a teenager just fine.

Next time I post it will be "B" is for Blankets. Hopefully less than a month in between posts!

A More Upbeat Post

2008-04-03T14:54:00.000-07:00

I apologize if my last post was too depressing for you. This cause is really dear to my heart since I have been where these families are today --- grieving the loss of a child. Though it has been 12 years since the loss of our daughter Brianna, my heart still wonders where and what our family would be like today if she had lived. Something to look forward to -- "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." Revelation 21:4

Onto more fun things. I haven't posted about my quilting activities lately so here are a couple of projects. The first I am calling Scrappy 9 Patches. The pattern is "Treasure Trove" by Nancy Mahoney from the Clothworks website (though I don't it listed there anymore). A good reason why I try to print out both knitting and quilting patterns I find on the web that I think I will make one day. They seem to disappear if I don't print them out! Clothworks has about 82 other free quilt patterns on the above link. Check it out!

This is all scrappy with fabric that was donated to our quilting group. The quilt is about 50" x 66" and will be donated to Encompass in September.

This next quilt is still a WIP (work in progress). It is pinned and ready to be quilted which will start on Friday evening at our quilt group. I am still not sure how I will quilt it ...

The pattern is from the TreadleOn website and is really simple and goes together quickly --- making it a great charity quilt.

Speaking of TreadleOn --- did you know that I own a White treadle sewing machine? I have even used it to make a bunch of quilt squares that I exchanged with other "treadlers". Though they still sit in a nice little pile!

As for knitting, madly cast on and finished a child's size 10/12 sweater for Afghans for Afghans. They had a "quick turnaround" campaign for sweaters, mitts, and socks. Done in about 8 days, whew!!

The pattern is from Margaret Hubert's book One Piece Knits that Fit. The yarn is Patons Classic Wool in wedgewood and size 4.5mm needles. Not a stunning sweater by any means, but should keep a child warm.

And Roam is coming along veerrrrryyyyy ssslllooooowwllly ... just like a snail. It will get done eventually, it just seems like knitting for me gets put to the side to fill other needs. That's not a bad thing, just means that my stuff takes a long time to finish!

All the pieces are finished and sewn together, and now I am onto the hood. The end is near!

May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us; establish the work of our hands for us— yes, establish the work of our hands. Psalm 90:17

NILMDTS

2008-03-25T15:50:00.000-07:00

I wanted to post about a really great organization that is helping families through their grief of losing a baby. It is called Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep (NILMDTS), which is a group of professional photographers who donate their time to take pictures of babies and families after a baby has gone to sleep. The gowns and outfits I have been making have been going to some of these wonderful individuals to give to families who do not have any clothing items small enough for their infants.

If you have a wedding gown or light coloured bridesmaid dress consider donating it to Heavenly Angels In Need (HAIN). They will send it on to a seamstress (like me) who makes gowns, blankets, bonnets, and outfits for these precious angels.

Here is a video of what NILMDTS is all about. Have a tissue handy ....

I managed to get 6 preemie gowns/outfits out of the bridesmaid dress that I was working on. Now onto the wedding dress. Here is one gown that I have finished. The pattern is on the Newborns In Need website. They have many wonderful sewing patterns there. The gown will fit a 2 to 3lb preemie and has a bonnet and bracelet that I made to go with the gown.

After this gown if finished I will be receiving another gown from a young lady who is pregnant with twins. One of her twins has passed away and she has asked for something to be made from her gown as a keepsake to remember her precious little girl. This is so heart breaking and I know there are many, many families who have gone through similar situations.

This post has been a bit (ok, maybe a lot) depressing and maybe even makes you very distraught. This is the reality of life and I only hope that what I do will bring a tiny amount of healing and comfort to these families.

"Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn." Romans 12:15

Preemie Dresses

2008-03-15T14:58:00.001-07:00

Since I last posted I made up two gowns with the idea I had. Knitting the top of the gown and then using fabric to make the skirt. This works up much faster than knitting a whole gown and looks pretty good. I did one boys dress and one girls dress.

I used Libby Wilson's Dress pattern to knit the top of the gown using Patons Beehive yarn and size 3.25mm needles. Once the top was knit I measured the width of the top, added 1" for finishing off the back seam and about 4" to add some gathering. I machine sewed the skirt to the top, added trim and was finished.

The angel that goes with the boys gown is from LucyBug. She has a pretty angel wrap on her website too.

I am very excited to have received a wedding gown and a bridesmaid dress from a donor who wants the dresses made into baby gowns and internment items. I have been working on the bridesmaid dress which is a pretty light blue with a small amount of beading on the front. There is also a white satin insert in the front. It has been fun and challenging to come up with ideas on how best to use the fabric.

The boys vested outfit (size 2-3lbs) is from Newborns In Need patterns set#3. I highly recommend this pattern set as there are some very beautiful patterns in there.

The gown (size 2-3lb) is a free pattern from CareWear website. They have some wonderful free patterns on there for preemies and newborns.

There are two other gowns that have been sewn up and one more newborn size that is cut out. As well as 4 buntings from the Carewear bunting pattern.

Most of the bridesmaid dress has been used up. With the rest I plan to cut out 3.5" squares and mix and match them with the wedding dress fabric to make some small quilts.

Brilliant Idea

2008-02-07T11:48:00.000-08:00

Sorry I have been gone for so long. I can't promise a timeframe for the next post, but know that I am still crafting away. I found that blogging seemed like a brag fest for me. I didn't want to come across as "see how much I accomplish", so I took a break and probably won't be posting weekly like I was before.

Anyway, on to the brilliant idea. Though it is not my idea it did dawn on me yesterday that I should use it.

A little background .... I was looking through all the many needs that Heavenly Angels In Need have at the moment and it is overwhelming. Where do you start? Most of the items are bereavement gowns, blankets, hats, etc. I really like to make these as I know that they are such a blessing to a family who has lost a little angel. But I do understand that this is not for everyone and can be hard to think about! I have both sewn and knit these gowns and find that I don't like knitting the skirt of the dress because it seems to take for eeevvvvveeerrrrrr! And I don't like sewing the top of the dress because of all the little fiddly pieces needed for preemie patterns. Here's the idea --- why not knit the top and attach a fabric skirt to it. I searched on ravelry and there are a couple of dress patterns that have done this. No pictures yet, but I will be starting the knit top after I complete a few things on the needles.

So, what have I been up to this last month and a half?

This 32" x 42" blanket made with Ram Wools Selkirk 100% wool for Afghans for Afghans. They have a baby drive going on until the end of February. If you have time consider knitting a 100% wool baby hat or socks. Check out the guidlines on their website.

A newborn size christening dress from Judy Knits. Absolutely gorgeous dresses and a little tuxedo sweater for the boys.

And the last thing I will share is a pair of socks I knit for my Dad for Christmas (belated Christmas gift I might add). They are from Interweave Knits Favorite Socks book and are called Eeste Hiking Socks. I used Cascade 220 Superwash in navy blue and cream. Very cushy and should keep his feet warm!

Still Here

2007-12-21T06:39:00.000-08:00

I am still here and have been knitting and sewing. With Christmas just around the corner I needed to take a break from blogging so I could have one less thing to stress over! I will post more about my knitting and crafting creations in January.

Til then, I wish each and every one of you a Very Merry Christmas and may you keep Christ at the center of you celebrations.

Check out this video --- Christmas With a Capital C ---

Knitting Projects

2007-10-31T10:29:00.000-07:00

Last week I told you about the quilting I had been doing. The Treasure Trove quilt has it's blocks sewn into rows and that is where it sits for now. I attend a crafting for charity group on Friday evening so maybe I will take it and try to get the top finished.

As far as knitting goes I have finished a couple of projects. This pastel baby sweater was started way back in November 2006. It has sat on my counter for almost a year with nothing but the sleeves to knit. It is definitely a sad state of affairs when it takes me a whole year to decide to finish a baby project. It is based on the Seamless Yoked Baby Sweater by Carole Barenys. I changed the pattern on the yoke and added the pattern near the bottom of the sweater. I also used ribbing on the sleeves rather than garter stitch.

Pattern: Seamless Yoked Baby Sweater by Carole Barenys
Yarn: LionBrand Babysoft
Needles: 3.5mm

Next is the baby shrug that I started a month or so ago. It is also finished though I am not that pleased with the pattern. I made size 3-6 month and the ribbing doesn't match up when you sew the sleeve seams. Not so good since the seam is very visible when the baby wears the shrug.

Pattern: Ribbed Shrug from the Fall 2007 Knit Simple Magazine.
Yarn: Bernat Softee Baby
Needles: 3.25mm

I am still plugging along on Roam. This is the sweater from Knitty Fall 2007 online magazine. Both sleeves are completed and I have started working the body in one piece. I am really enjoying using the garter slip stitch rather than seed stitch and love how the yarn is working.

Pattern: Roam from Knitty
Yarn: Berroco Ultra Alpaca in Denim
Neeldles: 4mm

And last but not least, I started and finished one more preemie sweater for my friend who is having quadruplets. She had them early Sunday morning and they are doing ok. 3 of them are on ventilators and one little girl is pretty tiny at only 1lb 15oz. I needed to make one more sweater since I had made 2 boys and 2 girls sweaters and she actually had 3 girls and 1 boy. If you are inclined to pray would you please say a pray for these little ones. Thanks!!!

Pattern: Patons Early Arrivals Raglan Cardi
Yarn: Sirdar Snuggly 4 ply (fingering)
Needles: 2.75mm and 3.25mm

Quilting

2007-10-24T09:57:00.001-07:00

Yes, that's right ---- I've been quilting. Finished 2 quilts, one that will go to Heavenly Angels In Need (children's division) and the other will go to Encompass.

The blocks for the pink and blue star quilt were made by Kirsten and I have three quilts total made out of her blocks. The other can be seen here and the third still needs to be quilted but looks exactly like this one. Thanks Kirst!!!!It is 36" x 36".

The second quilt that is finished is this square in square quilt. I had meant to make sawtooth star blocks but when I made the flying geese portions I reversed the peach and green fabrics so this is how it turned out. I think it looks good this way too! The fabric has cute pigs in the barnyard that was donated -- in fact all the fabric in this quilt came out of my "donated bins". It is 48" x 60".

And finally, I am starting this quilt called "Treasure Trove" by Nancy Mahoney from the Clothworks website (though I don't see it there anymore). There are quite a few really cute quilts on there that are all free in PDF format. This quilt is also made mostly out of donated fabric, though I did need to add a little of my own. It should finish about 57" x 73".

I will update you on my knitting stuff next time!

Breast Cancer Awareness MonthSince October is Breast Cancer Awareness month would you go to the Breast Cancer Site and "click" to help donate free mammograms to women in need. If they reach their goal their sponsor will donate an additional 150 mammograms. Thanks!!!

More Yarn and Projects

2007-10-07T11:35:00.000-07:00

The Fana Mittens are done -- yeah!!! I am not sure why it took me so long to finish. Maybe because I had other projects going that were more interesting ?!? Now that the mitts are finished, my package is being sent to Afghans for Afghans on Monday. One pair of socks, one pair of mitts and a sweater.

I received a bag of yarn from a wonderful lady (thanks Paula) at Encompass. This is the organization that Caring for Communities (the charity group I organize at our church) donates their kid sized quilts to. We just dropped off 23 quilts the middle of September. Paula is such a sweet gal that she picked up all this yarn for our group to use for charity.

Of course I couldn't just let it sit around and wait --- so I cast on for a blanket. There are 8 skeins of the beige (called bisque on the label) which should be plenty for a crib sized blanket.
I found this really cute sweater pattern on the Lion Brand website called Standout Stripes and am using it for the blanket. It will go to HAIN's Childrens Division when it's done.

The Roam sweater is coming along. I am almost finished the sleeves. And I really like how the garter stitch V pattern is turning out. Lots of texture!

And I have turned the heal on the first of my daughters socks. So knitting is happening :-)

More New Projects

2007-09-28T15:28:00.000-07:00

I did actually finish one more project before I started a couple of new ones. The Embossed Leaves socks from Favorite Socks by Interweave Knits are now finished. Yeah!!! They seemed to take quite a while to finish but that is probably because I had so many other projects going on at the same time.

Yarn: Fleece Artist Merino in colour Lily Pond
Needles: 2.25mm for ribbing and 2.75mm for pattern
Pattern: Embossed Leaves from Favorite Socks

This yarn is so soft though not machine washable so I will need to be careful not to felt them!!

I did not finish the Fana mittens. I don't know why I can't just buckle down and finish them ... only have the thumb of one mitt left and then weaving in the ends of the same mitten. I need to get my package off to Afghans for Afghans soon so finished pictures will probably be posted next time.

Onto the projects I started.

Last post I said I was going to start Roam and I did. This sweater is knit in seed stitch which I was not going to do. I am a "thrower" when I knit and the thought of all those p1, k1 stitches just did me in!! I went through a stitch dictionary I have (The Harmony Guide To Knitting Stitches) and chose a pattern called Garter Slip Stitch Version 5. This pattern has 2 rows of plain knitting, 1 row of k1, sl1 and then one row of k1, yf, sl1, yb on the wrong side. Much faster to work for this knitter and it is a 2+1 stitch pattern which is the same as the seed stitch. Currently working the sleeves (both at once).
Yarn: Berrocco Ultra Alpaca in colour Denim
Needles: 4.0mm
Pattern: Roam from Knitty.com

Since I finished the embossed leaves socks I cast on another pair that my youngest daughter wanted me to make for her. She picked out the yarn and the pattern. It is from More Sensational Knitted Socks by Charlene Schurch. I started out casting on 60sts and did a few pattern repeats and had my daughter (8) try it on. Too small. She could barely get it over her heal. So rip and cast on 72 sts. This actually fits me so will definitely be big enough for her.
Yarn: Regia 4ply in bright pink, yellow, orange
Needles: 2.25mm for ribbing, 2.75mm for the rest.
Pattern: Heart from More Sensational Knitted Socks

We are currently having a thunder and lightening storm so I think I will get off the computer and knit for a while!

Feeling Better

2007-09-18T14:02:00.001-07:00

I have finished two projects that I was working on and feel like my crafting life is a bit more under control.

My wonderful husband took me to a yarn shop in Seattle for our anniversary (12 years) and then out for Japanese food. We went to Weaving Works. This store has such a variety of yarns, fleece, spinning and weaving stuff, I could spend hours searching through everything.

What did I buy?!? 9 skeins of Berrocco's Ultra Alpaca to make Roam from Knitty.com . Roam is a hoodie sweater that has a zippered front. Pattern calls for DK yarn but since I knit tightly I thought I could get away with a worsted weight yarn. I haven't cast on yet because I want to finish my Fana Mittens first.

What have I finished. First the pink baby blanket that I have been working on (or not) since March. I am really happy with how it turned out and very happy that it is finished and checked off my "to do" list! Now to wrap it up and gift it away :-)

Yarn: Cotton Fleece from Brown Sheep Company
Colours: Pink-a-boo and Tea Rose
Needles: 3.75mm
Finished Size: 33" x 34"

Second is the felted bag that I had started in August for a secret pal exchange. I am thrilled with how it turned out since I don't have much felting experience.

Yarn: Elann's Peruvian Highland Worsted and Knit One Purl Two eyelash type yarn.
Colour: Dark Burgundy Heather (743) and Pink, Purple and Gold eyelash yarn.
Needles: 6.00mm and 3.75mm for I-Cord
Finished Size: 12" x 12"

Off to finish up my mittens for Afghans for Afghans and then cast on something for me! Happy Knitting!!

Too Many Projects --- Acckkk!

2007-09-11T13:52:00.001-07:00

I am getting overwhelmed ... with too many projects ! I know at least 6 women at our church that will be having babies over the next few months as well as Afghans for Afghans that have a deadline of October 12th, a very dear friend who has adopted a new baby, and Heavenly Angels In Need that continually has needs (which I haven't supplied in a long while). What is someone to do? ... Cast on another project of course!!! Which is what I have been doing and therefore have a ton of unfinished objects all lined up on my counter.

I am sure my husband thinks I have lost my mind since every time he sees me I am knitting away on yet a different project. They will all get completed, right?!?!

First up is a felted bag I am making for a shoe box exchange that needs to be mailed by September 24th. No problem --- I am almost finished the knitting then it's on to the felting. The bag is Elann's Highland Wool Fancy Felted Bags. I am using Highland wool in a dark wine colour and Knit One Purl One yarn for the accent near the top.

Next is a baby hat that I completed last week for HAIN's Childrens Division. I was feeling overwhelmed with all these large projects so started something small so I could get a sense of accomplishment! Anyone else do that?

I made up the pattern by casting on 74 sts and then using the Fibonacci system to work stripes. I really like how it turned out knit in Paton's Astra yarn and I want to design a pair of booties to go with it (after some other more pressing projects are finished or I need another quick fix of a completed item).

Remember this baby blanket that I started months ago? I started working on it again and think I need to finish 5 more pattern repeats to have it square. I am thinking of giving it to my friend who has adopted a baby girl at the beginning of the month!

And there's the mitts for Afghans for Afghans children's project. Still working on those.

And the Embossed Leaves socks which I am turning the heal on the second sock. Knit a couple of rows on that each day. No new picture!

And (I'm almost done) a very cute baby shrug that is in the Fall '07 Knit Simple Magazine that may also be for my friend with the new adopted baby or one of the 6 others mentioned above. It is soooo cute!
I am using Softee Baby in a pink and white marl, 3.25mm needles and making size 3 months. To go with, I want to make Saartje's Booties.

Enough projects? Sure hope I can complete a couple before having the dreaded "new project bug" bite me again!!

School Starts Today

2007-09-05T13:24:00.000-07:00

For us, today is the first full day of classes. My girls were excited about going and getting the year started with new teachers and old friends. Summer was fun, but I am definitely ready for some routine in my days!

I finally finished this sweater for Afghans for Afghans. I started it many months ago and can finally count it "off the needles".

Yarn: Jojoland Melody 2 strands together
Elann Peruvian Highland Wool
Needles: 4.5mm and 3.5mm
Pattern: From Margaret Hubert's Book One Piece Knits That Fit
Size: child 5/6

A very easy knit in one piece sweater!

One mitten complete. I really like how this turned out. I wasn't sure that my stranding would be "ok" but it looks fine to me. It was a bit tight when I changed from one needle to another, but I will need to concentrate on that for the next mitt. It is started and the check pattern is completed.
Yarn: Cascade 220 dark green and yellow
Needles: 3.5mm - 2 circulars
Pattern: Fana from Folk Mittens by Marcia Lewandowski

Ravelry Account

2007-08-31T12:58:00.000-07:00

I received my ravelry account last night -- yippee!! It is pretty neat though I can see how one could get wrapped up in searching and adding stuff and not actually knitting/crafting. I have added a few projects on there under "craftyknitter".

It has been a while since I last posted. We went camping for 3 days and then went to Penticton, BC Canada to visit my mom and dad and my sister and her family. We rode an historical train in Summerland one day, visited my grandma another and went to the beach. It was a great time!!

I have been knitting. First up is my embossed leaves socks -- the first sock is finished and I have started the second. These are knit with Fleece Artist's machine washable 100% fingering weight yarn in colour Lily Pond. I used size 2.25 needles for the ribbing and size 2.75mm for the rest of the sock. It fits perfectly.

Second, is a pair of socks for Afghans for Afghans. They fit me so will probably fit a teenager. They are knit using Cascade 220 wool yarn that was donated to me on 3.5mm needles. The pattern is specifically for Briggs and Little yarn so I needed to adjust the pattern a bit. I cast on 45 stitches and knit the ribbing in k3, p2 first round and then k1, sl1, k1, p2 for the second round. They are really stretchy and comfortable. As you can see, I ran out of the blue so had to improvise with the stripes on the second sock. I am sure they will be appreciated even if they don't match ....

Third up is a pair of mittens for Afghans for Afghans. I received the Folk Mittens book by Marcia Lewandowski. I absolutely love this book!! There are so many beautiful mitten patterns in hear from different countries and a little history about each mitten/country. This pattern is called Fana Mittens and originates from Norway. I am using Cascade 220 wool yarn and 3.5mm needles. They fit me so again will fit a teenager quite nicely!

Vacation

2007-08-24T06:22:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note to let you all know that I have not fallen off the face of the earth. I am on vacation and will be back blogging the beginning of September. Enjoy the last bits of summer!

Check out this story about why she is selling Pokemon Cards on Ebay -- it's a good laugh!

Preemie Sweaters and Socks

2007-08-13T06:44:00.000-07:00

The shower is over and the sweaters are finished. I do need to make one more tiny sweater as Lacey is having 3 girls and 1 boy. Yeah for her!! She looks so great and received some wonderful gifts. Here is the fourth sweater that I knit. I used Bernat Softee Baby for the white and Patons Astra yarn for the pink squares. The pattern is from P2Designs. I will need to go buy another set of buttons -- didn't think of making more sweaters when I purchased the first four sets!

What am I working on now?? Afghans for Afghans is requesting baby hats, socks, and blankets by September 21st as well as kids items sizes 8 - 18 (socks, hats, sweaters, vests, mitts) due by the same date. You can check out all the details on their website.
Finished is a pair of baby socks --- they really work up quickly with worsted weight yarn. The pattern is from North Country.

On the needles currently is a pair of kids socks using Cascade 220 100% wool. This yarn came from a freecycler -- thank you Amy!! She gave me 11 balls of Cascade220 in different colours as well as a sweaters worth of fishermans wool! I am set for a while!!

My sewing machine is feeling very sad lately since I haven't used it much. I have 3 quilts that need to be quilted so I may work on those. Two are baby size for HAIN and one is for a local low income preschool group.

The embossed leaves socks are coming along slowly. I have turned the heal on the first sock so am now on the last straight stretch to the end!

Embossed Leaves

2007-08-07T07:38:00.001-07:00

Since the Notre Dame De Grace pullover is finished I decided to cast on something new. I borrowed the Favorite Socks book from our local library and absolutely love all the sock patterns. I ordered it from Amazon yesterday since I know I will use many of the patterns in the book. The embossed leaves sock is the first one to be cast on in Fleece Artist's basic merino sock yarn colour Lily Pond. I have almost two repeats of the pattern completed.

One more teeny tiny baby sweater finished. Only 5 more days to get the last one started and complete. I am sure I can do it --- nothing like pressure of a deadline to spur me on LOL! This preemie sweater is knit with white Bernat Softee Baby and blue Patons Astra. The pattern is from P2 Designs Checked Mates Cardigan. Patti has so many wonderful free newborn and preemie patterns on her website both knit and crochet.

And Mary from Heavenly Angels In Need (HAIN) has created this wonderful YouTube video about infant loss. Thanks Mary!!

One More Sweater Down, Two More to Finish

2007-08-04T06:55:00.000-07:00

I finished the second preemie sweater for a gal in our church who will be having quadruplets in November (probably earlier is my guess). Her baby shower is next weekend and I decided last week to knit 4 preemie sweaters in 2 weeks --- crazy --- probably!! Anyway, two are finished and the third is on its way to completion. I kind of used the pattern for a garter stitch sweater in Paton's Early Arrivals leaflet but changed the number of stitches and number of rows used. Since I wasn't using garter stitch but mostly stockinette these number needed to be changed. Anyway, it turned out pretty cute with the lacy bottom edge (Arbor lace from the book Knitting on the Edge by Nicky Epstein) and raglan sleeves, but I like the cabled little boys sweater better.

And I finished my Notre Dame De Grace pullover from Interweave Knits summer 2007 magazine. It is so comfy -- now just need some cooler weather so I can use it (doesn't look like that is happening anytime soon). I will get my daughter to take pictures with it on me later today.
Yarn: Elann's Peruvian Highland Chunky in colour spiced wine
Needles: 5mm circular needle
Pattern: Interweave Knits Summer 2007 - Notre Dame De Grace by Veronik Avery
I followed the pattern except knit the body (front and back) in one piece up to the arms.

FOs and Notre Dame De Grace Sweater

2007-07-30T16:37:00.000-07:00

First up, I am very excited that the Notre Dame De Grace sweater is almost finished. I am working on the collar and then I need to sew the sleeves in, weave in the ends, sew on the button and ta da --- fini!!
I am using Elann's Highland Chunky yarn in colour 727 - spiced wine, size 5mm needles and am making size 40. It is nice and roomy which is how I like my sweaters.

Next up is the preemie sweater I started a few days ago. I have 4 to make and this is the first one completed. It will fit a 3 - 5lb baby and is teeny tiny compared to a newborn sweater.
I am using Patons Early Arrival pattern leaflet and James C. Brett Kool Kotton.

I have started another "girls" sweater and will post a picture when I am a little further along.

Here are a couple of pictures of the finished baby quilt. The blocks were made by a friend who decided not to finish her queen size quilt. Thanks, Kirst!!! I am sure a couple of babies will be very happy to receive your work :-)
It is 36" x 36" and has pretty floral flannel on the back.

Finally Sock Pictures

2007-07-27T09:45:00.000-07:00

Finally, pictures of the socks I know you have been waiting for ... or did you forget that I promised pictures. I almost forgot so I am sure you have!! They are knit with Panda Wool (wool and bamboo) on two 2.25mm circs, two at a time. I made the pattern up based on the article by Anne Budd in the Summer Interweave Knits magazine. You can find a similar sock pattern designed by Wendy.

And while I was out taking sock pictures there was a pretty butterfly that was having a snack on our butterfly bush. Isn't she pretty!

On another note, a wonderful gal at our church is pregnant and will be having quadruplets (yup you read right, 4 babies) in November. The church is having a baby shower for her the middle of August and I decided yesterday that I would knit some (4 to be exact) preemie sweaters and hats for her. Nothing like leaving things to the last minute!! She is not telling what the sex of the babies are .... so I figure if I knit 2 boys and 2 girls outfits then the most I would have to knit once they are born is two more ... and I know a wonderful charity that would accept the extra two. Am I crazy or what !?! No, don't answer that LOL!!

One limit I put on this is that I need to knit these from my stash --- now you have to understand that my stash is not that big compared to others out in blog land (though my DH would disagree) so the 4 outfits will all be out of different yarn and be different patterns. To tie them together I am using the same buttons on all four. Here's the first one started. The pattern is from Patons Early Arrival leaflet and James C. Brett Kool Kotton machine washable, DK yarn.

Still working on the Notre Dame De Grace pullover. The back is done and I am now working on the front. Pictures next time!

And I finished a baby quilt for HAIN. Pictures of that next time too ....

Vacation Knitting

2007-07-23T10:27:00.000-07:00

I am very pleased with the amount I got accomplished on the Notre Dame De Grace pullover. 2 sleeves were completed on the trip to and from Yellowstone and most of the back and part of the front were completed at the beach. I decided to work the front and back as one piece up to the arm decreases. I don't like seaming so the less seams the better! Here is the front and back of the sweater at the beach. DH is in the background flying his kite. As you can see he has his jacket on. It wasn't very warm though the kids still went "swimming".

Here's me knitting. I love seeing pictures of blog postees (is that a word?) so here is one of me. Wind is blowing and it is cold but I can't sit and not do nothing.

Since we arrived home I was overwhelmed with all the started (not finished) projects I have. I made these preemie booties to go with the hat which was finished a couple of months ago. There are so many other things to finish as well. I have decided that I will work on charity items during the "work" day and my personal items in the early morning and after dinner. I am hoping this will keep a balance in my life of personal and charity work.

HAIN Newsletter -- the summer edition is out. There are free patterns and some wonderful articles.

Afghans for Afghans is requesting baby hats (10" to 15" circumference), baby socks (no booties), and blankets at least 40" x 30". Due date is September 2007.

Home Again, Home Again, Jiggidy Jig

2007-07-20T15:43:00.000-07:00

Yes, arrived home today and am happy to see all my "stuff"! I will post about knitting adventures in a few days but for now a few Yellowstone pictures ....

Planes, Trains, and Automobiles

2007-07-08T06:11:00.001-07:00

Well, just one automobile for me! I will be on vacation for the next few weeks so enjoy blogland without me :-)

I finished the green panda wool socks, but you will have to wait for a picture since the camera is packed.

For pictures, I decided to make this sweater from the latest Interweave Knits magazine. And chose Elann's chunky highland wool in colour spiced wine. It's a gorgeous heathered red/brown colour. Sleeves are started.

There are quite a few really nice sweaters in this magazine and a really great tutorial on toe-up socks by Ann Budd. Her charts are what I used for the green socks I just finished. The charts allow you to knit with a variety of yarn weights and sock sizes. Very handy!

Hope everyone has a wonderful few weeks!

4th of July

2007-07-04T06:38:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July to everyone. Please stay safe and be careful around the fireworks!! We are going to a BBQ this afternoon and haven't decided what we are doing tonight! We may go to some local fireworks -- I know my girls are voting for that LOL!

My socks are coming along. I have turned the heel on both of them and am now working on the legs. It seems to be going so slowly but I need to keep reminding myself it has only been one week since I started them and I am almost done both!

And a cute puppy picture. This is before his haircut. I will try to post an "after haircut" shot soon! He's pretty shaggy here.

Creative Spiritz

Socks and Baby Dress

2007-06-30T16:53:00.000-07:00

First up, as promised, socks! Here is the panda wool that I am using to knit the first set of socks. Panda Wool is 46% bamboo, 43% wool and 11% nylon and oh so soft with a little bit of sparkle. I am using 2.25mm needles and a pattern called double eyelet rib found in The Harmony Guide to Knitting Stitches. An old book that my mom gifted me when I was in college -- ages ago!

I am trying to knit two socks at once on two 24" circular needles and am not sure that I am liking it. It seems like a lot of fiddling with the needles but I am sure I will like it when I am done and have a pair of socks to wear (or gift, I haven't decided yet).

Next is the preemie dress I was working on last post. It is complete and I knit a bonnet to go with. The Heart2Heart dress pattern is by Mary Glynn and I knit it with Bernat Softee Baby on 3.75mm needles. I couldn't find bonnet pattern with the gauge I was using so I made my own. It looks like it will be about the right size to fit a 2-3lb preemie. This outfit will be going to HAIN but first I want to knit one more preemie outfit for a boy using this gown pattern that I found by Libby Wilson.

Happy Canada Day on Sunday to all Canadians!!

Happy Wednesday

2007-06-27T18:13:00.000-07:00

My kids are happy anyway! It was sunny and warm here today, a great day for their first day off for summer holidays. They had a friend over to occupy them. Hopefully this is how the rest of the 8 weeks will be :-) The kids are happy and I get to knit, knit, knit (and maybe sew)!
Socks are finished. Yeah!! These were knit with Plymouth Classics Sockotto yarn on 2.25mm needles using Deby Lake's Tidal Wave pattern. I have to tell you that this yarn is not very soft. It is 45%cotton, 40% superwash wool and 15% nylon. It must be the cotton content that makes them a little "harsh". Not that I don't want to wear them ---

But I ordered some other sock yarn from Little Knits and it is oohhhh soooo soooffftt!! I got to touch and feel it today -- 4 balls of panda wool (40%bamboo, 43% wool and 11%nylon) and 1 ball of Fleece Artist's basic merino socks in Lily Pond --- Yummm. Of course I had to start knitting a pair of socks with the panda wool. I will show you a picture next time

Also started on the needles is a preemie dress. This is just the skirt so far (almost done). This is Mary Glynn's Heart2Heart pattern. I have made one before and her pattern was very easy to follow and the dress turns out adorable. I am using Bernat SofteeBaby yarn in a mottled pink and white colour

Til next time, keep on knitting :-)

Today It's Knitting

2007-06-21T14:54:00.000-07:00

As promised here are some finished (and not so finished) knitting projects. As an aside I have one of the star quilts layered and ready to quilt and the other two star quilts are now pieced into tops. Yeah!!

First up, some knit baby hats. These hats will be given to our church's caring ministry for families of new bundles of joy. I hope it is a blessings to them.

From bottom left going clockwise ---
* Blue and white hat pattern from P2Designs and is knit with James C. Brett Kool Kotton (very soft cotton yarn);
* My own pattern knit with Paton's Astra yarn;
* Hat pattern by Lenore English knit with Paton's Astra yarn;
* And last, very cute hat by P2Designs and knit with the Kool Kotton. There is a sweater and cute socks that go with this hat.

And on the needles for myself (what a concept) is a sock. Knit in Plymouth Classics Sockotta colourway Sun Kissed. I am using Deby Lake's Tidal Wave Sock pattern. You can see the pattern much better on her picture than mine. These are short socks to wear in the summer. Did I ever say that I am always cold. It needs to be about 75F before I can take my socks off so they will definitely be worn (if I get them done in a timely manner that is).

Are you looking for sock patterns?? Check out Knitting Pattern Central. There are tons of free patterns there -- so many you would never need to buy another pattern or book (unless you like the eye candy all in one place)!

Actual Quilt Making

2007-06-19T09:40:00.001-07:00

I have been inspired -- I am not sure by what but I have been working on some quilt tops.

The first is from donated fabric with cute pigs on the farm fabric. I had meant to make sawtooth star blocks but ended up sewing the wrong colour corner squares onto each flying goose. I wasn't about to rip it all out so I changed the pattern. I think it turned out very nice. I have the backing washed and am ready to layer and quilt. Maybe today! This quilt will go to ECEAP preschool program at Encompass in North Bend, WA.

The second quilt has blocks that were donated to me by Kirsten about 2 years ago. Am I slow or what!?! She had started this gorgeous quilt and had about 15 star blocks, 10 alternate blocks (don't know what to call them) and then quite a few pieced setting triangles. It looks like the blocks would have been set on point. Anyway, this quilt took very little time to put together and I have 2 others (a little bit bigger) with stars and alternate blocks to still put together. These will turn out to be about baby size so will go to Heavenly Angels In Need when I am done.

More finished knitting items next time :-)

Just Popping In

2007-06-11T10:00:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to post a quick note that I finished up the dress and bonnet outfit for Heavenly Angels In Need. It is small newborn size (6 -7lb baby) and the pattern was from BW Creations which doesn't seem to be available anymore. Barbara -- where did you go? I really like her patterns! The yarn is Softee Baby.

I finally had to make a list of things I want to knit. I found myself coming up with new ideas and kept getting off track.

Question for you: How many charities do you donate to?

I am currently donating to 4 and find myself overwhelmed occasionally. They are all great causes with immediate needs which initiates the problem for me -- which one is the priority? Anyway, just some food for thought and I would enjoy hearing your comments on the topic! Have a great Monday!

Helping the Afghan People

2007-06-08T14:59:00.000-07:00

Want to help the Afghan people? Check out Afghans for Afghans or Bev's Baby project.

A Finished Quilt

2007-06-05T14:58:00.001-07:00

Wow ... this is a momentous occasion. I actually finished a quilt that was worked on only by me. A couple of years ago I would have finished 4 or 5 by this time in the year but knitting has really taken over from my sewing. Not that I am complaining! Knitting is more portable. And I can finish baby items much quicker than a quilt --- ahhhh, instant (almost) gratification!

Also finished and off the needles is the pair of socks I was knitting for the Dulaan project. And started is a sweater. I am hoping to have the sweater done in another week so I can box up my items and get them off to F.I.R.E. If it isn't done then it will be a good start on next years items or may get donated to Afghans for Afghans if they have a need. It will definitely be used somewhere to keep yet another child warm --- there is such a great need on this planet for warm clothes!

I am still working on the newborn dress. The skirt is almost finished and then I will start the sleeves (I will post a picture next time).

I have about 10 yards of fleece that I want to cut into baby blankets and then edge in crochet. That will be my next project, as well as some newborn hats for our caring ministry at church. I have a never ending list!!

7 Random Things

2007-05-29T15:46:00.000-07:00

Thanks Candy!! I've been tagged to list 7 random things about me and then pick 7 others to tag. First the rules --

Each person tagged gives seven random facts about themselves along with the rules of the game, as well as tagging seven others by listing their names as part of the blog post and leaving a blog comment for the tagged individuals to let them know that they've been tagged.

1. I learned to knit when I was about 12. My mom tried to teach me but I was sooo tense and my stitches so tight I would end up in tears. Eventually I figured it out and now it is a passion.

2. I was born and raised in Penticton, BC Canada as was my dad. My grandparents moved there in 1912 so you could say our family are old timers :-) I never moved until I went to college.

3. I took CAD/CAM (Computer Aided Design, Computer Aided Manufacturing) at a technical college and worked at an engineering firm and computer company before moving to the US.

4. I learned to quilt on my own in 1998 after moving to the US. I had a 1 yo at home and didn't know anyone so started quilting to keep my sanity.

5. This is hard, coming up with 7 things. I am a pretty private person LOL! (does this count?)

6. I used to do cross stitch but gave it up when I started quilting. 2 hobbies is plenty for me (and my husband would agree).

7. I have one sister and one brother both younger than me. (Can you tell I'm having a hard time coming up with ideas?!?) My family and my husbands live in Canada -- we are the only rebels!

I'm not tagging anyone. Maybe I will think of someone later, but most of the blogs I read have already been tagged!

We had an awesome time camping and I will post pictures in the next couple of days!

Knit For Dulaan

2007-05-25T10:29:00.000-07:00

Since I posted those YouTube movies I thought I would also update you on all the items I have knit for The Dulaan Project so far. The due date to have all items in to F.I.R.E. is July 1st so I am hoping to have may box ready to mail by June 15th. Finished for Dulaan are one Steppe Sweater size 8/10, one red raglan sweater size 6/8, one v-neck cardigan size 4/5, three hats, and one pair of baby booties pictured below with the finished sock.

That said -- I started a new pair of wool socks size 6 and want to start and finish a size 6 pullover sweater. One sock complete and the other started (just barely).

I have a bunch of fingering/sock yarn in 100% wool that I thought I would make socks out of but it is not machine washable so won't be a good choice for my family (I don't do hand washing LOL!). Doubling this yarn up will make a nice worsted weight yarn.

We are headed camping this weekend so I hope to get the socks finished up and a good start on the sweater.

Why I Knit for the Dulaan Project

2007-05-23T14:00:00.000-07:00

So Much Started

2007-05-21T14:43:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't posted for quite a while. I have been busy (who hasn't) and I just haven't had the time -- or the desire -- to post. Since the last time I posted I have started 3 new projects and finished one of them today.

Afghans for Afghans had a challenge to make baby socks and hats to bless mothers for mothers day. I decided Friday that I wanted to make at least one set and the due date is May 25th. Nothing like leaving a project to the last minute. They are done -- now I just need to get them in the mail tomorrow. Hopefully they arrive by Friday! The socks are from P2Designs striped ribbed socks and the hat is made up by casting on 84sts, k2, p2 ribbing for 3" and then k6 rows purl a row, knit a row, purl a row until the hat measured 6" then typical decreasing. One more baby will be warmed!

The next project I started a couple of weeks ago was a burial dress. I have been reading on the HAIN forum of so much need by hospitals for burial outfits (very sad) and decided I needed to make some of these up. I am sure it would be much faster to sew them, but I just don't seem to have the energy and my sewing skills just don't measure up (in my opinion) as much as my knitting does. The pattern is from BW Creations which doesn't seem to be active anymore. It is knit in one piece with the back open. The skirt is a pretty eyelet pattern.

And the last item that I started about a month ago was another baby raglan cardigan sweater. I love making these, they work up quickly and turn out so cute! The pattern is by Carole Barenys and I am using some pastel sport weight yarn and pretty pink heart buttons.

I am planning on finishing the burial dress first though I still have the pink "waves" blanket I need to finish knitting. I think I am about half done with that. And the quilting/knitting group at our church has the opportunity to knit hats and booties for new arrivals through the Caring Ministry. So far no one has offered to help so I may need to knit a few of those quickly as well.

Hopefully there will not be as much time between now and the next post. I will do my best to update you on what is happening in my crafting life!!

Baby Hats and More

2007-04-30T09:19:00.000-07:00

The basket (box) is finished for In The Fields Mininstry's fundraiser auction. All the proceeds go to help drill for fresh, clean water in Uganda. It is hard to see what is in there but it is packed full of goodies. I made 2 wash clothes, hat and booties, fleece blanket with crocheted edging, and a double layer flannel receiving blanket. Also included is some goats milk soap that my sister makes -- yummy stuff. And I found this adorable box with a Noah's Ark theme from the Paper Factory. The lid is 3D which is very cool (in my opinion LOL!).

In other crafting news, our church hosts a "ministry fair" once a year where all the different ministries can set up a booth and then attendees can walk around and see what the church is up to and sign up to participate. The emphasis is on participating since we are all called to serve God. I set up a booth for the quilting/knitting/sewing ministry and had about 8 new people sign up who are interested in joining us. That really fires me up to come up with new ideas for what we can do as a group.
Our current project is making a quilt for a family who lost their teenage daughter last summer in a tragic accident. Our group is making a quilt from some of her clothing. It has definitely been a challenge with all the different size squares/rectangles that we needed to use and then using a comforter for a backing. It will be tied since I don't want to fight with it trying to machine quilt it. I know it will bring comfort to the family!

I came across some beautiful knit baby hats by Lenore English the other day. 5 of them to be exact. I have made the first three (which are displayed in our booth) and also a pair of booties to match the basket weave ribbing stitch hat. They all turned out adorable! Thanks Lenore!!!

Where did the week go?

2007-04-20T14:34:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it has been another week since I last posted -- where oh where is April going? I am thinking that the busier I am the faster time goes!

I have to say I haven't accomplished much in the past week. The pink waves baby blanket is coming along and I did manage to pick up more yarn so I can finish it. It is about 12" long so only 24" more to go.

I stumbled across Judy's Knitting Patterns yesterday. Oh my, she does some lovely designs. If you want to knit a Christening/Burial gown she has the most gorgeous patterns. There is also a little Tuxedo sweater for boys that is adorable.

For an easy baby sweater check out Carole Barenys' Top Down Seamless Raglan. Knitting on the Net has finally posted her pattern again. This is the pattern that I have used to make my newborn baby sweaters. It is easy to follow and works up quickly. She also has the most adorable baby booties to go with the sweater.

Speaking of baby sweaters, check out the Mitred U Baby Jacket that Megan Mills designed. This is another "must try" to add to my list. Thanks Megan!

Heavenly Angels In Need (HAIN) has posted their newest newsletter (warning large PDF file). Check out the beautiful dress that Mary designed on page 4.

Out O' Yarn

2007-04-13T06:28:00.000-07:00

Well, not really!! One bootie is finished, but I ran out of white yarn. Darn! I ordered some more (and a few other items of course) from JoAnn's online because they have the Patons Astra yarn that I like to use. It should arrive on Monday so I can finish up the booties to go with the hat.

In the mean time I finished one baby footprint washcloth -- it turned out adorable and I will definitely make this pattern again. And have the LOVE washcloth in the works. All these items are going in a basket to be auctioned off and the proceeds to support In The Fields Ministry.

Baby Footprint Washcloth
Yarn is Peaches and Creme 100% cotton
Needles size 4mm

Love Washcloth
Yarn is Sugar 'n Cream
Needles Size 4mm

Today, my daughters and I are going shopping for some other purchased items for the auction basket. They are excited to help pick out things and it instills in them a heart for giving. Even if it isn't their money they are spending LOL!

Fun Links--
Diaper Cover (Soaker) knit pattern by cyntergnomes. Wouldn't this little soaker be cute along with a little dress or longish sweater. I like that she has sizes for newborn up to toddler.

Slipped Stitch Baby Blanket knit pattern by Barbara Breite. This blanket has wonderful texture and is really easy to knit. I love the pastel colours she chose but wouldn't it by cute in more boyish blues, purples or greens.

Very Busy

2007-04-09T15:44:00.000-07:00

I never remembered having a puppy being so much work. The constant need to watch him and the fact that he is fascinated with my knitting -- wanting to chew on anything that is close enough for him to sink his sharp baby teeth into (including my hands, legs, arms). On that note there is not much new to report. The good news is my girls are home for the week on spring break so they will be a bit of a distraction for him!

The hat for the Dulaan project is done. I actually finished it before Benji arrived on the scene but haven't had a chance to take any pictures. It is made with worsted weight 100% wool from my stash and it didn't have a label on it. The pattern is one by Sarah Peasley which I have made a few times before. I really like how it turns out. This makes 6 items completed for Dulaan with a large size sweater almost finished -- it's one of my UFOs (unfinished objects) that has been sitting on my "to do" pile for months.

The next project I volunteered for this week is to help In The Field Ministries by making a basket for their auction in May. They are hoping to raise $25,000 so that they can drill a well in Rwenjiri and help out the local Pastor by replacing his mud home with a brick one. I am planning on making a "Baby Basket" for them. This hat is for the basket and I am working on making some booties to go with the hat. Hat pattern is from P2Designs. I have a fleece blanket that I will crochet an edging around, a couple of flannel burp clothes, wash cloth and then I will probably go shopping for the rest. Binky, sleepers, stuffed animal, a toy or two. Any other ideas on what would be a good item to add? If I am really ambitious I may make another basket with more girly items since this one is more boyish.

If you sew for babies you really need to check out Barb's instructions for making these really cute burp cloths. I am planning on making some of these for the above basket. Thanks Barb!!

And if you ever want to make wash cloths for babies this baby footprint cloth is adorable and so is this Love cloth. And one more -- this embossed heart cloth is very pretty.

Completely Off Topic

2007-04-03T10:40:00.000-07:00

My wonderful DH brought a new puppy home yesterday. He did have the foresight to phone and ask me first if it would be ok! We have been talking about getting a smaller lap dog and I guess he has really been looking.

Benji is a Shipoo and weighs about 2 lbs, is very playful and loves to play with our 10 year old golden retriever, Rio. Though Rio is still pretty unsure of this whole situation.

Finished Socks

2007-04-02T10:16:00.000-07:00

I finally finished my Trekking XXL socks I started a few weeks ago. This is only my third pair of socks I have made and the first pair using sock weight yarn. I love how they turned out and they are very comfortable to wear.

Yarn - Trekking XXL #84

Needles - size 1 2.25mm

Pattern - Marguerite's Basketweave Socks without the basketweave

Since I finished something I of course had to start something new. I had purchased this pink cotton fleece yarn for my birthday and was planning on making a baby sweater and hat for a friend who is having a baby in June. Change of plans -- I started a baby blanket with the yarn instead. And of course I will probably need more than what I purchased -- guess I will have to go back to Weaving Works ... darn!! For the blanket I cast on 189 stitches using size 3.75mm needles and am using a pattern from a Japanese stitch pattern book I purchased (also for my birthday). I am not usually into pink but I am really liking this combination. Ask me in a week or two after I have been working on it for hours and hours :-)

What about the hat for Dulaan that I started last week -- it is almost complete. I am just finishing up the decreases on the top. Picture to come in the next post.

It must be spring ... the elk are back. We had 6 of them in our front and back yard the other morning. They are lovely to see but can wreak havoc with my garden. They seem to eat almost everything and what they don't eat the rip out of the ground. Needless to say, gardening here is quite a challenge!

Someone sent me this email and I thought I would share it with you!

Suggestions for making the most of your Year
Things should be as simple as possible, but not simpler.Albert Einstein:

1. Take a 10-30 minute walk every day. And while you walk, smile. It is the ultimate anti-depressant.

2. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day. Buy a lock if you have to.

3. Get more sleep.

4. When you wake up in the morning complete the following statement:My purpose is to___________ today.

5. Live with the 3 E's: Energy, Enthusiasm, Empathy.

6. Watch more movies, play more games, and read more books than you did in 2006.

7. Make time to practice meditation, yoga, tai chi, and prayer. They provide us with daily fuel for our busy lives.

8. Spend more time with people over the age of 70 and under the age of 6.

9. Dream more while you are awake.

10. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less foods that are manufactured in plants.

11. Drink green tea and plenty of water and eat blueberries, wild Alaskan salmon, broccoli, almonds, and walnuts.

12. Try to make at least 3 people smile each day.

13. Clear your clutter from your house, your car, your desk, and let new and flowing energy into your life.

14. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip, energy vampires, issues of the past, negative thoughts, or things you cannot control. Instead, invest your energy in the positive present moment.

15. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class, but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.

16. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince, and dinner like a college kid with a maxed out charge card.

17. Smile and laugh more. It will keep the energy vampires away.

18. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.

20. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

21. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

22. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.

23. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

24. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, and wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.

25. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.

26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: "In five years, will this matter?"

27. Forgive everyone everything.

28. What other people think of you is none of your business.

29. Time heals almost everything. Give time.

30. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

31. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Y our friends will. Stay in touch.

32. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful, or joyful.

33. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

34. The best is yet to come.

35. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up, and show up.

36. Do the right thing.

37. Call your mother and father often.

38. Each night before you go to bed complete the following statements:I am thankful for __________. Today I accomplished____________.

39. Remember that you are too blessed to be stressed.Enjoy the ride.

Remember that this is not Disney World and you certainly don't want a fast pass.

Some Sewing

2007-03-27T09:20:00.000-07:00

My sewing machine is feeling more loved. I actually unpacked it from 2 weeks of sitting in its rolling case after attending a quilting group. And I sewed some blocks for Home of the Brave quilt project -- 10 of them actually. These quilts are sent to comfort loved ones who have lost soldiers in Iraq or Afghanistan. The blocks -- Cross X or Album -- are really easy to make. You can find instructions to make a block or two here.

I did do some knitting over the weekend as well. My Trekking XXL sock is coming along. I did find the beginning of the repeat for the yarn so my second sock will be very similar in colour striping to the first sock. Yeah!! I only knit about 1 1/2" of ribbing before realizing that the colour was repeating so not much time wasted!

I started another hat for the Dulaan Project. This is a mock earflap hat knit on 3.5mm needles using worsted weight 100% wool yarn. The earflaps are made by knitting short rows back and forth which results in flaps that are smaller than ones that would be knit and then added on to the hat. I chose a pattern from one of my Japanese Knitting Books to use in the plain part of the hat. I am really liking how it is turning out and it is not difficult to knit. Yeah!!

One Sock Down

2007-03-23T07:25:00.000-07:00

I have completed one sock from the Trekking XXL yarn I received for my birthday. As you can imagine I haven't worked on much else. I started it on Sunday and finished yesterday (Thursday) so I figure 5 days to make one sock isn't too bad!! Onto the next one. I did notice in pictures of others socks made from Trekking that the two socks do not match. Being the perfectionist that I am ... I am hoping that this doesn't bother me too much. I just love the colours!

I did finish a preemie baby hat to go with the little dress I finished last week. I am debating whether I should make some booties to go with this outfit our just send it off as is. I am thinking the dress is a not long enough to cover the babies feet so booties may be in order. The only problem is I don't have a pattern to make booties that small ...

I am still looking through my Japanese knitting books and trying decide which patterns to try first. I have swatched 4 of them so far and just love the intricacy. I want to make a baby sweater for my friend Linda who is due at the beginning of June using a couple of the patterns. I am just waiting to finish my socks and a pair of booties (if I decide to make them) before heading into a new -- and challenging -- project.

Check out Stitches of Violet to see some of her progress with a pattern from a Japanese knitting book she purchased. Just beautiful!

2007-03-19T14:32:00.000-07:00

I couldn't help myself and started knitting up the Trekking XXL sock yarn that I bought last weekend. I am liking how the colours are coming out and am doing a really simple pattern. I am using Marguerite's Basketweave sock pattern but only doing a simple rib (3 knit 1 purl) instead of the basketweave pattern. I figured the pattern would get lost in the all the colours of the yarn.

Onto the finished pile I put the baby sweater I had been working on (newborn size) and the preemie burial dress (1 - 2lb preemie). You can really see the difference between the two sizes in the picture. It is really hard to imagine a baby that small and tiny and perfect!

Newborn Baby Sweater

Yarn: James C. Brett Marble

Needles: Size 3.5mm

Pattern: Seamless Yoked Sweater by Carole Barenys

Preemie Burial Dress

Yarn: Lion Brand Baby Soft Twinkle Print

Needles: Size 3.5mm

Pattern: Sleeper Sack by Debbie

I plan on making hats for both the above outfits. Probably when I get tired of working on my socks!

The Good and The Ugly

2007-03-13T09:30:00.000-07:00

Good morning. I hope everyone is having a wonderful day! My weekend was awesome. My wonderful husband chauffeured me around all day in Seattle. I never (I mean maybe once a year) go to Seattle -- the big city -- because of all the one way streets, traffic and just plain unfimiliarity of the place is daunting to me. So for my birthday I asked to go to 4 different yarn shops in Seattle and also to the Japanese bookstore, Kinokuniya. The yarn shops I visited were Hilltop Yarns, Weaving Works -- where I bought the pink Cotton Fleece and Trekking XXL sock yarn -- So Much Yarn -- where I bought 5 skeins of teal coloured Silky Wool, and Stitches.

At the book store I bought two very cool Japanese stitch pattern books. And I couldn't help myself so I started playing around with some of the patterns in them. You need to remember that these books are written completely in Japanese so there is no hope of actually "reading" anything but thankfully all the patterns are charted. The trick is figuring out what the different symbols mean. Again this isn't too hard since the back of both books have pictures of how to knit some of the symbols, but not all. It is definitely challenging.

The next two pictures are from the Knitting Patterns Book 250

The next two pictures are from the Knitting Patterns Book 300

If you are at all interested in Japanese pattern books, Marguerite of Stitches of Violet has some wonderful entries (and pictures) on her blog of Japanese books she has purchased.

Fleegle's Blog also has some great pictures and ideas on Japanese knitting.

So that was the very good -- now the ugly. I started a preemie baby gown last week since there seems to be so many requests for these lately (very sad). I started with Debbie's Sleeper Sack pattern for the top and then decided to make the bottom a skirt rather than a bag. After putting the sleeve stitches onto holders, I worked 1 inch in stockinette and then did k2tog, yo across to make eyelette holes. After that I increased in each stitch to make the skirt a little more full. From the book Knitting Stitches by Mary Webb I chose a pretty flower pattern to do the skirt in. Now for the ugly ... I wanted to add a ruffle on the bottom but didn't really know how so I just increased in each stitch and then knit for another 3/4 inch or so. That didn't work as you can see from the picture. I think I will just rip the ruffle part out and cast off. Will have to work on the "ruffle" stuff on another project.

Where do you find comfort?

2007-03-08T15:37:00.000-08:00

I can not believe that another week has passed me by. Each time I post to this blog I tell myself that I will not wait a whole week to post again. And what has happened ... it's been another week!

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.” 2 Corinthians 1:3,4

The above verse from 2 Corinthians was the verse of the day for March 8th. I can relate to this verse and this is one reason that I make so many items for charity ... my hope is that in the same way God comforted me through the loss of my 5 1/2 month old daughter, I would also be able to, in some small way, comfort other women and families going through a tragedy in their lives. Whether it is a loss of a child, loss of a job, poverty, single parent, and the list could go on and on. Some believe that if you have a personal relationship with Jesus that "comfort" means no trouble. This is completely untrue. I believe that God uses the tragedies in our lives to grow us and mold us into the person He wants us to be. And like the above verse states, allows us to use the trials we have gone through to relate to other people going through similar circumstances. God does not cause these troubles, but through our own bad choices or others' bad choices we suffer.

I did go on a women's retreat last weekend and had a good time. Retreats are not really my thing as I would much rather stay home (in my own comfort zone with my own "stuff"). I did get to know a couple of the women there much better and really did enjoy myself. I had stated in my last post that I wanted to finish the baby sweater and maybe a hat at the retreat ... well, as you can probably guess, that didn't happen .... guess I was having too much fun!

There was also a request from Amy who is in a hospital in Idaho on bed rest due to complications in her pregnancy for burial items and any newborn items. The hospital is in desperate need of these so this will be my next project. To work on at least one or two more burial items. Here are a couple of patterns to get you started if you want to make something.

Angel Wrap

Lenore English's Gown

Debbie's Sleeper Sack

Extra Small Gown by Lenore English

And the quilt design that I posted a few weeks ago is coming along ... slowly but surely. I have most of the 3 1/2" half square triangles sewn but not all trimmed to size. And I have started on the blocks. I figure if I do all 16 blocks at once I will have a better chance of finishing the quilt top. I know myself ... If I finish 2 or 3 blocks and can see what the resulting quilt will look like, I will have less motivation to finish. Wish me luck :-)

Basket Weave Blanket

2007-03-01T14:42:00.000-08:00

Yarn: Sport weight yarn (I used Bernat Softee Baby)
Needles: 4 mm (US6)
Finished Size: Approximately 14" x 14"
To make this blanket larger cast on more stitches in multiples of 4.

Abbreviations
CO = Cast On
sts = Stitches
K = Knit
P = Purl
YF = Yarn Forward
YB = Yarn Back
Sl2 = slip 2 stitches purlwise

Blanket
CO 94 stitches
Knit 6 rows in garter stitch (knit every row)
Start Pattern
Row 1: K7, *yf, sl2, yb, k2; repeat from * till 5 sts remain, K5
Row 2: K4, Purl till 4 sts remain, K4
Row 3: K5, *yf, sl2, yb, k2; repeat from * to last 7 sts, yf, sl2, yb, k5
Row 4: K4, Purl till 4 sts remain, K4

Repeat the above rows until blanket is desired length minus about an inch.

Knit 6 rows in garter stitch (Knit each row)
Bind Off and weave in ends.

Not Another ...

2007-03-01T14:00:00.000-08:00

... Snow Day. Are you kidding me? I think we are up to 9 days to make up at the end of the year. At this rate our kids will be going to school til the middle of July. I have to admit though, that I love seeing the snow. It makes the yard look so pretty by covering up all the weeds and junk with a pure white layer of fluffy stuff! And the kids really enjoyed (probably their last) romping in the snow with their friends.

I sewed the seams on the boys burial outfit this morning and also took a picture.
Yarn: Bernat Softee Baby
Needles: 3.5mm and 3.75mm (US 4 and 5)
Pattern: Boys Burial Outfit by me

The blanket is also done in Bernat Softee Baby and size 4mm (US6) needles. It is about 14" square. I will post the pattern in a bit.

The seamless top down sweater is coming along nicely. I have put the sleeve stitches on holders and am now working on the body. Here's a picture of what I have finished so far.
Yarn: James C. Brett Marble in Denim
Needles: 3.5mm (US4)
Pattern: Seamless Yoked Sweater by Carole Barenys that used to be free on the internet. The 5 hour baby sweater is a similar pattern.
Size: Newborn

I hope to have it completed (and maybe a hat) at the retreat I am going to this weekend. Yippee --- no cooking or cleaning for me just lots of worshiping God, making new friends and catching up with old friends.

Switched

2007-02-28T14:06:00.000-08:00

I have taken the plunge and switched to the 'New Blogger'. I am really not sure what that means to you but I am hoping that everything still works . We shall see as time goes on.

Again, not much new on the crafting front. I received (from my wonderful husband) the flu bug on Friday and am just today feeling more like myself. Yippeee for that but booo for not being able to do much knitting or sewing ... just didn't feel like doing anything but sit on the couch!

Yesterday, I made some cards for friends with March birthdays. I am happy with how they turned out. No stamping involved just using stickers and paper from a "book" I got from Michaels. And one of the paper stores near me (only 15 miles away so that is considered near when you live in the boondocks) is closing so I picked up the green sparkly cards for a good deal. Had to get 50 of them so you will probably see them around for a while :-)

On the knitting front, I did finish the white preemie blanket and the boys outfit. Just need to sew the seams and weave in the ends so next time I will post a picture of those. And I cast on another top down, seamless baby sweater using James C. Brett yarn. This time in the Denim colourway. Love that yarn -- even if it is acrylic! Check for a picture next time --- hope to finish it on our women's retreat this weekend!

One last thing ... do you like to listen to music while you craft. Marilee on the WASIQ email group posted a link to Pandora Internet Radio. You can set up your own radio station based on a song or artist. You do need to sign up, but for now it is free. Very cool if your computer is near where you like to craft!

Not Much New

2007-02-21T12:54:00.000-08:00

My kids have this week off for mid winter break so we decided to visit our family and some friends in the beautiful city of Vancouver, BC. We completely forgot to take the camera so I have no pictures .... The weather was ok except for Monday when it rained the entire day. It wasn't any better at home so I don't feel too bad!

On the knitting front, I started a preemie blanket in white Bernat Softee Baby. I am using the woven stitch from the boys burial outfit I designed a while ago with a garter stitch border. I also started the boys burial outfit in blue/white Softee Baby but it is harder to work on riding in the car because I need to concentrate more. Both are about half done so maybe next week I will have some completed items to show you ;-)

Do you like colour? I like to play around with different colour schemes and this website is really cool. I like Sunset On The Bay at this moment.

And this one is pretty great, too! Viking Invasion

You can download the colour scheme software for a free 15 day trial.

Not Another Quilt

2007-02-14T06:01:00.000-08:00

Yup ... you heard right. I decided last week that I need a quilt for my bed. I have never made - or maybe I should say never finished - a queen size quilt. I do have two tops sitting here that are both about queen size. One is black and bright block of the month (BOM) that I did two years ago from the PlanetPatchwork website. The other is was a New Years Day mystery quilt from A Pocket Full of Mysteries yahoo group from about 1 year ago. I don't "love" either of them so I am sure that is why they are not quilted.

My favourite colours are teal and purple and I have quite a few fabrics in those colours. I was browsing through EQ6s library of blocks and found one that I like and would work well in a large size - 18" finished - and scrappy fabrics. I didn't have any background fabric so needed to go to the store and purchase that - but I was good and didn't get anything else LOL!

The only downside of the block I chose is that it is entirely made from 1/2 square triangles. 576 of them to do the quilt ... yikes what am I getting myself into. Probably setting myself up for another UFO ... but what the hay :-) What's another UFO when you already have .... so many of them!

Progress - I have all the fabric for the blocks cut out and all the teal/purple and teal/light 1/2 square triangle blocks sewn. Getting there ....

Other finished stuff - I finished the pair of socks for Afghans for Afghans and also made a red hat for their circus challenge. Need to get those off in the mail today.

Happy Valentines Day! XOXOXO

Almost A Quilt ...

2007-02-06T09:14:00.000-08:00

WoooHooo ... this quilt is almost done! And will be the first one completed in 2007. It is pretty simple but I really like how it turned out. Just need to finish hand sewing the binding onto the back. It is 42" x 50" which is a bit bigger than I had wanted it for a crib size quilt but should be usable into toddler hood. Each square is cut 6 1/2".

The January 2007 newsletter for Heavenly Angels In Need is now available. There are a couple patterns in there, some stories and updates on the different regions. A good read in my opinion!

I finished the knit blanket I was working on yesterday. I really like how it turned out. I will post the pattern another day since I am in a bit of a rush this morning :) Just need to weave in the ends. The sleeper on top of the blanket is newborn size (I made 5 of these). The blanket and sleepers will be going to Heavenly Angels In Need once I find a box big enough to hold the donations.

Dulaan Video

2007-01-31T13:29:00.000-08:00

If you ever wondered why I so enjoy knitting for charity this video pretty much sums it up. It shows kids receiving knit items from the Dulaan project in Mongolia. Aren't they just adorable. And it breaks my heart to see these kids with no socks or warm clothes.

I have one sock finished for the Afghans4Afghans project. Yippeee!! And I have cast on the other one so it will get done (no second sock syndrom for me -- yet).

Hope you are having a wonderful Wednesday afternoon!

Socks

2007-01-30T15:27:00.000-08:00

For the last couple of months I have wanted to knit another pair of socks. I don't know why but I am fascinated with them. Having only knit one pair I can't say that I am really knowledgeable but I want to knit more. So I was excited when I received an email from Afghans4Afghans on Saturday asking sock knitters to knit wool socks. I even cast on that very day and have one sock 3/4s done.

The wool is Briggs&Little Tuffy sock yarn, 2ply and quite heavy and not very soft. I bought this untouched from Ram's Wool and probably wouldn't have bought it if I had actually touched it beforehand. The pattern is from Briggs&Little but I have modified it to use 2 circular needles and make the socks a little smaller. The pattern is for size large which to me was too big! I cast on 48 stitches and the sock will fit my leg and foot.

Do you want to knit some socks for Afghans4Afghans? Here are the guidelines:
- yarn must be at least 80%wool
- avoid white and very light colours
- size must fit a child 7 - 18 years old
- must have a heel and cover the lower leg
- must be knit and not crocheted
- received by March 7th (find address on their website)

Happy sock knitting :-)

More Knitting, Less Quilting

2007-01-22T20:15:00.000-08:00

I am not sure what is inspiring me to knit more than quilt these days .... my poor sewing machine is becoming lonely and the quilt tops are crying out to be finished. It must be something in the air since I know of at least two others that are experiencing the same thing!

I finished the sweater I started a week ago. It turned out very cute even though it is not in baby colours. Pink and grey. I love it and am pretty sure there are moms out there who don't really like the soft pastels and will enjoy something different (I am hoping anyway). Yarn is Marble by James C. Brett in the heather colourway. I used a pattern by Carole Barenys which used to be posted on Knitting On The Net but isn't there anymore. It is similar to the 5 hour baby sweater and is knit from the top down in one piece.

So what happened to finishing a couple of UFOs and starting and finishing one new item. I guess I fell off the wagon already. I cast on for a baby blanket after knitting up a dishcloth in a very pretty faux cable pattern. I am sure there is a proper name for the pattern ... if you know what it is could you let me know .... Definitely baby colours. My husband said it looks like spumoni ice cream! Guess that's a compliment (not sure though). Yarn is old, old, old stuff that was donated to me. I am guessing it is from the 70's .... Honeyspun, Caron's Dazzle Aire, and Super Yarn Mart. Fibre content says orlon and dacron and it's not very soft but should be fine for a blanket.

News Items:
Alex Anderson and Ricky Tims are teaming up to start a new online tv broadcast. It looks like their website TheQuiltShow will have lots of fun stuff that is free but will be charging $16.95 in order to watch their tv shows online. You can blog and chat for free though. Go check it out!

The DIY network and Knitty Gritty are hosting Super Knit Sunday on February 4th to benefit Warm Up America. Participants are asked to knit/crochet rectangles that are 7" x 9" to make afghans. Vicky Howell will have a live blog from 5 to 11pm ET where you can share ideas, ask questions and have fun! There's information on where to send your rectangles, strips or completed afghans at the bottom of the knit in website.

Bev from Bev's Country Cottage posted some pictures of knit items being distributed in Afghanistan by Steve. I am amazed at all the donations pictured on the tables. What an awesome project. Thanks Bev for the opportunity to help!!

Not Another Snow Day

2007-01-11T18:44:00.000-08:00

Yup! We are now on day 8 of days missed from school. Who knows when the kids will make them up. There are rumours of going to school on Saturdays, missing winter break and/or adding days at the end of the year (we are now into July). The kids were sure happy about the day off and keep asking if there is school tomorrow!

It was a very productive day for me. I started a fair isle hat yesterday and completed it today. I thought it would fit me but I was waaaaayyyyy off with my gauge. It doesn't even fit my 7yo so it is going to the Dulaan project. I found the pattern in an old Vogue Knitting magazine - Winter 94/95. The hat did look a little small on the model and that should have clued me in. It was very fun to knit and I really enjoyed using the different colours. The yarn is Elann's highland wool. They sell it at such a great price ... $2.25 for 100m.

Next up I finally finished the prayer shawl I have been working on forever. I added a few more rows, cast off and added fringe. I love how soft it turned out and will be going to Children's Hospital in Seattle.

And I finally made a pompom for the top of the spiral hat I had knit a few months ago. Nothing like procrastinating!!

My goal is to finish a couple of items and then start something new. So what have I started ... of course I couldn't not start something so I had some James Brett Marble yarn that I have been wanting to try out and cast on for a top down, seamless baby sweater. I need some buttons for it so will go out tomorrow (weather permitting) to the LYS to pick something out. Who knows what I will come home with ...

More Knitting Done

2007-01-10T06:22:00.000-08:00

I have gotten off to a good start on my 100 items for charity this year. I received the book Knitting on the Edge by Nicky Epstein for Christmas and have been using some of the stitch patterns out of it to make my knitting more interesting. The hat and bootie set used the bobble garter edging on page 142. I like how it turned out (though some people do not like bobbles).
This is a newborn size set knit with Paton's Astra variegated yarn (I know, I know yucky acrylic but it's for babies who may have allergies to wool).

Another item completed is the sweater I was knitting for the Dulaan Project. I again used some patterns from Nicky Epsteins book. The cabled rib pattern that is used is found on page 39 and I carried two of the cables down the front. I used Rhythym DK yarn doubled and 5.5mm needles. It turned out to fit my 7 (almost 8) year old daughter and is knit all in one piece - yeah - no seaming (that's the best).

Heavenly Angels In Need has posted their January Newsletter which is a good read. They are doing some wonderful things this year and Mary included one of her patterns for a very beautiful hat and bootie set on page 11. Thanks Mary!! I can't wait to try it out.

Note: Nothing like living in the past ... the January Newsletter I linked to is from 2006 but there is still a really nice pattern in there from Mary! 2007 Newsletter is coming soon!

It's snowing again! For the one hour I have been up it started with no snow on the ground and now has about 1" with very large flakes coming down. Sounds like a good day to stay home and knit/sew. Have a very blessed day whatever you do!

Happy New Year

2007-01-01T09:08:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to everyone. My prayer is that anyone who reads this blog would be blessed more than they could ever imagine by God this year!

Do you have any New Years goals? I have a couple that are crafting related. One is to finish all the blocks for my Women Of The Bible quilt. In the past year I have completed half of them so I don't think it is unrealistic to think I can finish the rest. Maybe even the applique for the middle of the quilt. This quilt consists of 53 - 6" quilt blocks and an applique border. I am laying my quilt out a bit differently than how Carol did and will have an applique center on point with blocks around the outside.

Another goal for 2007 is to complete 100 craft items for charity. I participated in Bev's Charity Challenge last year and made 135 items ... more than I had expected. So this year I will keep the pledge at 100 and see if I can surpass it again.

Before Christmas I was looking for a pattern (free of course) that would show how to add an edging to fleece blankets. I don't really like the cut fringe edges for baby blankets but had heard that you could crochet and edge. The Crafty Chic website had just what I was looking for. You punch holes in the edge of the fleece and then use your crochet hook to pull the yarn through and do a single crochet edge. There are some really great pictures on the Crafty Chic website on how to do this. She suggests using a large needle in your sewing machine and sewing around the edge to make the holes. I didn't have a large needle but did have a hole punch used for card making. The punch makes tiny holes but big enough for the crochet hook to go through. It worked really well. I made a hat out of the same yarn I edged the fleece with. Both Newborns In Need and Heavenly Angels In Need are in great need of blankets and I find I can make these much quicker than knit or quilted blankets (a knit hat and/or booties adds a nice touch too).

Cabled Bootie Pattern

2006-12-29T16:52:00.000-08:00

These booties are knit flat with the sole and heel sewn up afterwards.

Small Newborn Size
Size Bernat Softee Baby Yarn
Size 3.5mm (4) needles

Large Newborn Size
DK Weight Yarn
Size 3.75mm (5) needles

Cable Needle
Tapestry Needle

k2tog = knit two stitches together
yo = yarn over

Cable Pattern For Booties
C1: P1, K4, P1
C2: K1, P4, K1
C3: P1, put 2 sts on cable needle and hold at the back of the work, knit 2 sts from left needle, knit 2 sts from cable needle, P1
C4: K1, P4, K1

Cabled Bootie Pattern
(Based on bootie pattern submitted by Carol on the BBC Website)
Cast on 34 sts leaving a tail that is about 12" long.

Ribbing:
Row 1: *k1, p2, k1, C1; repeat from * until 4 sts left. End k1, p2, k1
Row 2: *p1, k2, p1, C2; repeat from * until 4 sts left. End p1, k2, p1
Row 3: *k1, p2, k1, C3; repeat from * until 4 sts left. End k1, p2, k1
Row 4: *p1, k2, p1, C4; repeat from * until 4 sts left. End p1, k2, p1
Repeat above 4 rows 2 more times. 12 rows completed.

Row 13: Repeat row 1 increasing 1 stitch after 11 sts worked and another after 22 sts worked.
36 sts total.
Row 14: Purl across
Row 15: k1, *yo, k2tog; repeat from * across ending k1
Row 16: Purl across

Instep:
Row 17: knit across 24 sts, turn
Row 18: purl across 12 sts, turn.
Work these middle 12 sts in stockinette stitch (k right side, p wrong side) for 16 rows. Cut yarn.

Sides:
With right side of bootie facing you, attach yarn to the 12th stitch from the right. Pick up 8 sts on the right side of the instep, k12 sts, pick up 8 sts on the left side of the instep, k12. 52 sts total.
Work 11 rows of stockinette stitch (k right side, p wrong side) across all 52 sts.

Heel and Toe:
Row 1: k2, k2tog, k19, k2tog, k1, k2tog, k until 4 sts left, k2tog, k2
Row 2: knit
Row 3: k2, k2tog, k17, k2tog, k1, k2tog, k until 4 sts left, k2tog, k2
Row 4: knit
Row 5: k2, k2tog, k15, k2tog, k1, k2tog, k until 4 sts left, k2tog, k2
Row 6: knit
Row 7: k2, k2tog, k13, k2tog, k1, k2tog, k until 4 sts left, k2tog, k2
Row 8: knit
Cast off loosely.

Using the cast on tail, sew back, heel and sole seam. Weave in ends. Thread ribbon through eyelet holes.

Cabled Hat Pattern

2006-12-28T14:37:00.000-08:00

This hat is knit in the round on either 11" circular or 4 double point needles.

Small Newborn Size
Bernat Softee Baby Yarn (Sport Weight)
Size 3.75mm (5) double point needles or 11" circular

Large Newborn Size
DK Weight Yarn
Size 4.0mm (6) double point needles or 11" circular

Cable Needle
Tapestry Needle

p2ss0 = pass the two slipped stitches over the last knit stitch
m1 = make 1 stitch (increase 1)

Cable Pattern For Hat
C1: P2, K4, P2
C2: P2, K4, P2
C3: P2, put 2 sts on cable needle and hold at the back of the work, knit 2 sts from left needle, knit 2 sts from cable needle, P2
C4: P2, K4, P2

Cabled Hat Pattern
Cast on 7o sts and join in the round being careful not to twist. Place marker at beginning of the round.

Ribbing:
Row 1: *K2, P2, K2, C1; repeat from * around
Row 2: *K2, P2, K2, C2; repeat from * around
Row 3: *K2, P2, K2, C3; repeat from * around
Row 4: *K2, P2, K2, C4; repeat from * around
Continue in above 4 rows 2 more times (3 cables completed) ending on row 3.
On the last row for ribbing (row 4) increase as follows:
*K2, P1, M1, P1, K2, C4; repeat from * around (75 sts total).

Hat:
Row 1: *K7, C1; repeat from * around
Row 2: *K7, C2; repeat from * around
Row 3: *K7, C3; repeat from * around
Row 4: *K7, C4; repeat from * around
Continue above 4 rows until hat measures about 4" ending on row 4. For large newborn work 4.5" ending on row 4.

Decreases:
Row 1: *sl2, k1, p2sso, k4, C1; repeat from * around
Row 2: *sl2, k1, p2sso, k2, C2; repeat from * around
Row 3: *sl2, k1, p2sso, C3; repeat from * around
Row 4: *sl2, k1, p2sso, k4, p2; repeat from * around
Row 5: *sl2, k1, p2sso, k2, p2; repeat from * around
Row 6: *sl2, k1, p2sso, p2; repeat from * around
Row 7: *sl2, k1, p2sso; repeat from * around

Cut yarn and thread onto tapestry needle. Thread through remaining stitches and pull tight.
Weave in ends.

I'm Back

2006-12-28T13:54:00.000-08:00

It has been an eventful 2 weeks and I managed to get quite a few knit items completed. First we lost power for 5 days. It really made me appreciate my microwave and drier. We have a generator so we did have most conveniences ... heat, hot water, lights, stove and even our espresso maker worked. And since the TV didn't work and we couldn't do much shopping I spent much time knitting as well as playing games with my kids.

I promised to post a picture of the fingerless gloves that I made my niece. Well, I forgot to take a picture before I mailed them to her but I decided to make a pair for me. The pattern is from the Giving Flower website. I knit mine using Peruvian Highland Wool from Elann and the cuff has a strand of Knit One Purl Two Sublime knit along with the wool. When the power was out I used them in the morning to knit since the house was cold and they worked great!

Next I worked on the dishcloth KAL pattern that was posted for mid December. The power was still out and our internet wouldn't work so I used my cell phone to download the instructions each morning (what would we do without all the technology). It is a very pretty lace pattern. If you sign up with the monthly dishcloth KAL on yahoo you can find the pattern (and many more).

And finally I finished this hat and bootie set also while we had no power. I made up the pattern for the hat and the bootie pattern came from the Ray of Hope website. Thanks Carol for a very easy to follow and easy to knit pattern. I used Bernat Softee Baby yarn.

I have more completed projects and will post those in a few days as well as a new pattern for a newborn cabled hat and bootie set. We had a wonderful time visiting my mom and dad in British Columbia. They had snow so we went sledding with my sister and her family. Lots of fun was had by all!

Knitting In The Round

2006-12-14T14:50:00.000-08:00

Good Afternoon!! Again, it's been more than a week since I posted ... must be all the Christmas rush making time fly by. I am now done all the knitting projects I wanted to get done for Christmas gifts. I knit two pairs of bug mitts and a pair of fingerless gloves for my niece and nephews. I am not going to post pictures in case my sister happens to visit here! I absolutely love how the fingerless gloves turned out and am thinking I will make myself a pair over the holidays.

I have always disliked knitting in the round with 3 or 4 needles. I could never seem to get the joins to look good. They were either too tight or too loose. I had been hearing lately of using two circular knitting needles and found these directions. She has wonderful pictures and the instructions were easy to follow (at least for me LOL!). I have been designing a child's size sweater knit in one piece and when I came to the sleeves decided to give this technique a try. It works very well and I love how the joins look ... I can't even tell where they are!

The yarn for this sweater I bought off eBay from the JOJOLAND store. She has a wonderful selection of DK 100% wool and sock weight 100% wool. This sweater is in colour M10 and uses the yarn doubled. The baby booties that I felted (see previous post) use this yarn as well but in a different colour.

Another Week

2006-12-06T14:57:00.000-08:00

Wow, another week has flown by and we are getting much closer to Christmas. I have done a little shopping for gifts but still have more to do. Hope to get most of it done this week and some packages mailed for family. We put up some of our decorations ... Nativity scene, advent calendars for the kids, lights outside and that is about it. I love Christmas but don't like the decorating and undecorating part of it!

I am almost finished the spiral hat that I started last week. The knitting has been done for a few days and I just need to make a pom pom for the top. I don't have a template so will try the cardboard method. The hat should fit a 8 to 12 year old and will be sent along to the Dulaan project when I have a few more items completed. The pattern came from the Knitting for Peace book.

Finally the binding is sewn on this quilt. I made the top at a retreat I attended in Leavenworth, WA in July. The pinwheels are three dimensional. I had always wanted to try out this technique and I really like how it turned out. The hard part was all the layers of fabric that come together at the center of the pinwheel. Each triangle has 4 layers plus the 4 squares so 16 layers of fabric make it really hard to get the seams to line up. A preschooler will not be picky and will love the bright, fun fabrics!

Once my five items are made for the Dulaan project I plan to make some wool items for women and children in Afghanistan. Bev from Bev's Country Cottage has a new contact person in Afghanistan who will be delivering warm items there. I have finished reading a book called Meena about a women in Afghanistan who started the group RAWA. The book talks a lot about the plight of women and children there. I can not imagine what they must go through and my heart breaks for them!

Snow and Cold

2006-11-28T05:57:00.000-08:00

It is still snowing this morning where I live. Now I know that all of you who usually get snow in the winter will be laughing at us in the Northwest, but we just aren't used to it! I think I have about 1.5" in the yard and it is cold (28F) so all the schools are closed. My kids will be excited when they wake up that they can play all day. This weather has been crazy .... first flooding now freezing ice and snow!

On to more warm stuff! I finished a pair of booties that I felted (sized for a 1 year old). This is the first time I have ever felted anything on purpose (the "not on purpose" has happened a few times). They didn't seem to felt up quite as much as I would have liked, but I am happy how they turned out. This pattern seemed a little different as the booties were knit on quite small needles so the resulting fabric was quite tight before felting. All the other felted patterns I have seen have used larger needles which resulted in a looser fabric before felting. This may have had something to do with how the booties felted. I want to try out this felted slipper pattern next. This pattern uses larger needles so maybe it will felt better.

Finished is a pair of socks that I started in 1992 (yup ... been a while). They turned out ok, but the pattern was horrible to follow, especially for my first pair of socks. I guess that is why it took so long to finish them, I couldn't understand the directions! They have a cabled pattern for the ankle and top of the foot which I really like. The pattern came from the Fall 1992 copy of Vogue knitting.

The Knitting for Peace book arrived at our library so I picked it up the other day. It is such a great book with wonderful stories and great patterns. I think I would make each pattern in there ... they are simple, easy to knit and the results look great! I have added it to my Amazon wish list so maybe it will show up under our tree at Christmas! I have cast on for the swirled ski cap.

Thanksgiving

2006-11-23T06:59:00.000-08:00

H A P P Y * T H A N K S G I V I N G * D A Y !
Have safe travels if you are travelling and enjoy all the yummy treats. We are not traveling and are having only our immediate family (4 of us) for dinner. I will be enjoying the quiet (as quiet as it can be with 2 young kids) and enjoying some delicious food :) I am so thankful for all of you who spend some of your time making items for others. It sure is food for the soul!

I finished a baby quilt which turned out to be 32" x 32" square. I really like using the warm wishes pattern, it is quick and easy. It is also easy to adjust the block size to accommodate different types of focus fabrics. The Quiltmaker website has quite a few fun and easy quilts to make.

As I said in the last post I am working on a sweater for the Dulaan Project. I was going to design my own, but decided it would be quicker to make one from a pattern. I used Irina Makarow's pattern called the Steppe Sweater and am using extra chunky yarn. Wendy Pampas is the dark purple (about 5 sts per 4" on 9mm needles) and Austermann Bombolo yarn is the peach colour. It is working up really quickly with this bulky yarn and I only need to add one more sleeve and then weave in the ends. A much larger eyed tapestry needle will need to be found for that as I only have one that does up to worsted weight yarn.

Enjoy your turkey feast!!

Back Into Quilting

2006-11-14T09:03:00.000-08:00

I had taken a break from quilting for a while. I think I was just overwhelmed with all the quilt tops I had made and the daunting task of quilting them all. There was also this quilt that I just didn't like and had it half quilted ... well it's finally done and I feel a huge relief knowing I can get on to stuff I like better. I really like the cowboy print that I had but I think there needed to be more contrast between the window pane fabric and the red window sill fabric. I used the attic windows pattern.

I also finished this sweater and hat set that I had started last week. I will include it in the box for Heavenly Angels In Need. Now I want to design a sweater and hat set for the Dulaan project. I have been looking through Knitting Over The Edge and also a knitting stitches book to come up with some ideas for a "no sew" pullover sweater. I realize how much I really dislike sewing up all those seams after knitting since the mitered square blanket is still sitting on my floor, layed out and in pieces!

Rain, Rain Go Away

2006-11-08T15:17:00.000-08:00

Probably most of you have heard of all the flooding and rain we received here in Western Washington a few days ago. Fortunately we live high enough above the rivers that we were not affected, but my heart and prayers go out to all of the families that have flood damage. The schools have been closed yesterday and today because quite a few of the school buildings in our district were flooded. The kids are enjoying their time off and we went out to Snoqualmie Falls today to see all the water pouring over. The mist was so heavy that we were completely soaked in about 1 minute of standing near the falls.

Crafting wise I am working on knitting a seamless baby sweater using some Softee Baby yarn that I have on hand. I am trying a new technique of adding the buttons onto a knit stitch on the same row as the button hole. This way I don't have to sew buttons on when I am done with the knitting ... so it really is a "no sew" sweater.

More Mitts and Dishcloth

2006-11-04T07:22:00.000-08:00

I finished the other buggy mitten for my older daughter and then made a pair for my younger daughter. She picked out the yarn and the pattern. These are so cute and they work up fast. I had forgotten how fast mittens work up. I think I will make a pair for each of my niece and nephews for Christmas.

I also made this dishcloth last week. I wanted to try making a round cloth and found the Diamond Edge Circular dishcloth pattern. It is easy, but I am not sure I like how it turned out. There is another pattern with a bit more of a lacey edge on it that I think I will try next and the ones I have seen have been in solid colours so I may try that as well. I was hoping to make these for a couple of girlfriends for Christmas and include a bar of soap, some lotion and other girly stuff.

Shawl, Mittens, Cards ... Oh My

2006-10-31T09:36:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it has been a week since I last posted. I really need time to slow down, but it sure isn't listening to me. When I once had 24 hours in a day it now seems like I have about 18!

Mittens - This awesome mitten pattern was posted on one of the email lists I belong to. They are called buggy mitts and are the most adorable mittens I have ever seen. Soooo, everything I was working on got put aside so I could make one up using all the wool I have in my stash from Elann.com. The pattern is knit in the round using double point needles. Now, I have nothing against double points but if there is a way to not use them I will choose that way. So I went to my favorite mitten pattern which is knit flat and then the seam is sewn up and used the ideas from the buggy mitten pattern.

Shawl - I have been working on this prayer shawl for months. It is the basic prayer shawl pattern of K3, P3 across and then K the P stitches and P the K stitches on the way back. It will be donated to Seattle's Childrens Hospital when it is done. I have a friend whose daughter has been battling cancer there and she came up with the idea to make shawls for the kids (thanks Dene and Judy). I have about 5 more inches to go and then it is done ... though I may add a fringe to it, but I am still undecided. Yarn used is Red Heart Symphony in ice blue. Very soft.

Cards - A couple of weeks ago I attended an event at our church where we made cards for breast cancer baskets that are donated to a local hospital for women newly diagnosed. I had so much fun and decided that I wanted to make my own Christmas cards this year. Here is what I have come up with so far. I have made a couple of each design and am having a blast making them. I may even make some "Thank You", "Birthday", and blank cards to send out as gifts. It's nice to have a break from sewing and knitting ... but is one more thing that makes a mess in my crafting room :-)

Hat for Preemie Boy Outfit

2006-10-24T13:56:00.000-07:00

Here is the pattern for a hat that will go with the outfit in the previous post. It is knit flat and then the seam is sewn. If you leave the ends of the ribbon long, the nursing staff can trim when they use the hat. Enjoy!

Preemie Hat

Materials
3.5mm and 3.75mm needles
small amount of Sport Weight yarn (I used Bernat Softee Baby)
yarn needle
ribbon

Abbreviations
MC = main colour
CO = cast on
sts = stitches
K = knit
P = purl
Inc = increase by knitting in the front and back of the stitch
K2Tog = knit two sts together
ssk = slip two sts purlwise, knit the two slipped sts together
yf = yarn forward
yb = yarn back
yo = yarn over
sl2 = slip 2 sts purlwise

Double Woven Stitch
Row 1: K3, *yf, sl2, yb, k2; repeat from * to last st, k1
Row 2: purl
Row 3: K1, *yf, sl2, yb, k2; repeat from * to last 3 sts, yf, sl2, yb, k1
Row 4: purl

Hat
CO 40 sts in MC using 3.5mm needles
Row 1: k1, p1 across
Row 2-6: repeat row 1
Change to 3.75mm needles
Row 7: (k9, inc1) across
Row 8: purl
Row 9 - 12: start Double Woven Stitch
Row 13: K1, *yo, k2tog; repeat from * to last st, k1
Row 14: purl
Row 15: row 1 of Double Woven Stitch
Continue in Double Woven Stitch until hat measures 2.5", ending with row 4 of Double Woven Stitch

Decreases
Row 1: k1, *k4, ssk; repeat from * to last st, k1
Row 2 and all even rows: purl
Row 3: k1, *k3, ssk; repeat from * to last st, k1
Row 5: k1, *k2, ssk; repeat from * to last st, k1
Row 7: k1, *k1, ssk; repeat from * to last st, k1
Row 9: k1, k2tog across row to last st, k1 (9 sts)
Cut yarn with a long tail. Thread yarn through sts and drop sts off needle.
Pull tight and sew seam.

Finishing
Weave in ends
Weave ribbon through yo's and tie in a bow
If you need help tying a nice bow, check out this website.

Preemie Boys Knit Outfit

2006-10-24T09:08:00.000-07:00

I have been working on another version of the knit preemie boys outfit. This one fits about a 1 to 1 1/2lb preemie. I made the bottom of it textured using the double woven stitch. It is really easy, just slip two stitches with the yarn in front, move the yarn to the back and knit two stitches. I also added a white tie to the outfit. Here's the pattern:

Preemie Boys One Piece Outfit

Materials:
2 oz Sport weight yarn (I used Bernat Softee Baby) and a small amount of contrast colour
3.5mm and 3.75mm needles
ribbon
stitch holders
yarn needle for sewing seams and weaving in ends

Abbreviations
MC = Main Colour
CC = Contrast Colour
CO = Cast On
sts = Stitches
K = Knit
P = Purl
Inc = Increase by knitting in the front and back of the stitch
K2Tog = Knit 2 stitches together
YO = Yarn Over
SSK = Slip one st knitwise, slip another st knitwise, knit the two slipped stitches together
YF = Yarn Forward
YB = Yarn Back
Sl2 = slip 2 stitches purlwise
PM = place marker

Double Woven Stitch
Row 1: K3, *yf, sl2, yb, k2; repeat from * to last st, K1
Row 2: Purl
Row 3: K1, *yf, sl2, yb, k2; repeat from * to last 3 sts, yf, sl2, yb, k1
Row 4: Purl

Sleeves
With MC cast on 18 sts using 3.5mm needles
Row 1: K1, P1 across
Repeat this row 3 more times. 4 rows worked.
Change to 3.75mm needles
Row 5: Inc 1, K across to last stitch, Inc 1
Row 6: Purl
Row 7: Knit
Row 8 - 16: continue in stockinette stitch (knit right side and purl wrong side)
Place these 20 stitches on a stitch holder

Repeat for the second sleeve.

Legs
With MC cast on 18 sts using 3.5 mm needles
Row 1: K1, P1 across
Repeat this row 5 more times (6 rows worked)
Row 7: inc 1 st in each knit st across the row (36 sts total)
Row 8: Inc 1, P8, Inc 1, P8, Inc 1, P8, Inc 1, P8 (40 sts total)
Row 9: Change to 3.75mm needles and start Double Woven Stitch pattern
Continue in Double Woven Stitch pattern until the leg measures 3.5" from beginning. Last row knit should be row 4 of the Double Woven Stitch pattern.
Place these 40 stitches on a stitch holder.

Repeat for second leg.

Body
Place both legs on 3.75mm needle with right side facing. Join MC yarn.
Row 1: K2, work row 1 of Double Woven Stitch pattern to last 2 sts, K2
Row 2: K2, purl, K2
Row 3: K2, work row 3 of Double Woven Stitch pattern to last 2 sts, K2
Row 4: K2, purl, K2
Continue working these 4 rows until 6.5" have been worked from the bottom of the leg. Ending with a wrong side row (ready to knit the right side)
Decreases: K2, *K1, K2Tog; Repeat from * to last 3 sts, K3 (55 sts)
Next Row: K2, Purl, K2
Ribbon Band: K2Tog, YO across all sts

Necktie
Row 1: K2, purl, K2
Row 2: Knit across
Row 3: K2, purl, K2
Row 4: K27, K1 in CC, K27
Row 5: K2, P24, P3 in CC, P24, K2
Row 6: K26, K3 in CC, K26
Row 7: K2, P23, P5 in CC, P23, K2
Row 8: K25, K5 in CC, K25
Continue working rows 7 and 8 until outfit measures 8" from beginning (bottom of leg) ending ready to knit the right side.

Attaching Sleeves
Keeping the CC worked on the same 5 sts, do the following to attach the sleeves.
Row 1: K12, transfer sleeve sts with right side facing to left needle, knit across 20 sleeve sts, PM, K31, PM, transfer other sleeve sts with right side facing to left needle, knit across 20 sleeve sts, K12.
Row 2: K2, purl across, K2 (do this for every wrong side row)
Row 3: K to marker, K2Tog, K to 2 stitches before marker, SSK, K to end
Repeat row 2 and 3 - 4 more times
Do row 3 again.

Break MC and attach CC.
K2, Purl, K2
K2Tog, YO across
BO all sts.

Finishing
Sew sleeve and leg seams
Weave in ends
Thread ribbon through YO at waist and neck

Scrappy Stars Quilt

2006-10-15T14:21:00.000-07:00

I have been making "quilt kits" for the quilting group I organize. Anyone who attends the quilt group can take a kit which contains donated fabric cut up and a pattern, make the quilt and donate it to charity. My only problem is that I want to make up all the quilt tops!

The most recent kits I have made have been from the Road to Oklahoma block. The directions are below. You are free to use this pattern to make your own quilt and use up some of your scraps!

Scrappy Stars Quilt
Quilt Size: 54" x 66"
Block Size: 12 1/2" x 12 1/2"

Fabric Requirements:
Dark Colours 120 - 3 1/2" squares (approx. 1 1/4 yards)
40 - 4" squares (approx. 1/2 yd)
Light Colours 120 - 3 1/2" squares (approx 1 1/4 yards)
40 - 4" squares (approx. 1/2 yd)
Border 3/4 yard. Cut into 6 - 3 1/2" strips
Backing 4 yards
Binding 1/2 yard

Directions:
1. Make 80 half square triangle blocks using the 4" light and dark squares. Once sewn, trim the half square triangle blocks to 3 1/2".

2. Sew the light and dark squares together for rows 1 to 4 (see below).

Row 1

Row 2

Row 3

Row 4

3. Sew the rows into a 12 1/2" block.

4. Sew 4 blocks together then sew the rows of blocks together to make the quilt top. Using the picture of the quilt above for guidance.

5. Add the border.

6. Layer, quilt and bind your quilt.

Remembering Pregnancy and Infant Loss

2006-10-13T13:47:00.000-07:00

Sunday, October 15th is a day to remember all the babies that have died before they should have. Everyone is asked to light a candle at 7pm to remember the little ones who have passed on and to support their grieving families.

I am one of the mom's who has lost an infant before her time. Our first daughter Brianna Elizabeth passed away when she was 5 1/2 months old. It is so unnatural for parents to outlive their children, but there are many, many families in this situation. I believe that knitting, sewing, and quilting items for families in need is my way of healing my broken heart. Please consider using your talents to help a grieving family by making any item for a charity. Heavenly Angels In Need and Newborns In Need are two charities that donate burial items to hospitals.

Vest Complete

2006-10-11T15:41:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you, but time seems to be speeding up around our house! I can't believe it has been a week since I last posted and I have only finished the vest for Afghans for Afghans. I started it last week and have been working on it exclusively so I can mail it before the deadline of November 3rd. I really liked the vest pattern that I used from Warm Woolies. It worked up fast and the directions were very clear.

Now I really need to make a baby bunting out of fleece and send it off with directions to Kathy. She had asked for a sample and that seems to be what is holding me up. So off to create one and mail it off. Kathy, thanks for being so patient!

On the quilting front I am working on quilting a top that was given to me for charity. The lady who made it doesn't like to quilt so she gives me her tops. I figure since it is for charity I will quilt them ... it is not my most favorite part of making a quilt as my DH can attest to. He always gives me a bad time about all the quilt tops I have around unfinished! Oh to be perfect and only start and finish one item at a time!

So Happy

2006-10-04T14:35:00.000-07:00

I am soooo happy that I have my sewing machine back and in working order! I had cut out fabric for two more onsies and a burial dress a couple of months ago and have finally sewed them together. I think I am getting quite a few things to fill a box to send to HAIN. Keep an eye out Janina.

It only took a few days ... In my last post I vowed I wouldn't start anything new. Well, I did. I kept getting emails (probably two which shows how easy I am) from Afghans for Afghans pleading with us to make more sweaters and vests to send to school children in Afghanistan. I just couldn't help myself and started a vest. I found the Warm Woolies website with some wonderful vest, hat and mitten patterns using two strands of worsted weight yarn held together. The items work up very fast and I am almost finished with the body of the vest in size 8 (though it looks like it will be larger than that). They have vest-of-the-month patterns with some really neat ideas to jazz up a simple vest.

I think most of my sewing projects that I had started are complete, except for the pile of quilt tops I have sitting here staring at me. I am going to start on those next! I really am ...

I'm On A Roll

2006-09-26T11:32:00.000-07:00

Another finished object ... yippee!! I finished up the toddler sweater today and am so happy that it is done. I think I will send it to the Dulaan Project when I have a few more things made for them. I would like to make a hat to go with the sweater, but first I need to finish off some other projects.

And I get my sewing machine back today. Apparently I did something to the hook so it needed to be replaced to the tune of $100 - ouch! And I had it serviced so that was a few more $$ spent on that. I probably won't be buying any more crafting stuff for a while since I had to spend so much on the sewing machine. Though if you saw my sewing room you would wonder what on earth I would need to buy since I pretty much have at least one of everything (that is what DH would say but we all know the truth - ha, ha).

I am going to work on that Psychedelic Square Afghan that I started months ago in baby colours. All the squares need to be sewn together, ends woven in, and then some kind of border added. I am thinking a simple garter stitch border so that I can call it done. I will not start anything new, I will not start anything new, I will not start anything new!!!!

The Dulaan Project

2006-09-24T07:02:00.000-07:00

There seems to be a lot of chatter about The Dulaan Project on blogs. I love this charity and thought I would summarize what it is about here. You can click on the link to the left if you want to read more or go to Mossy Cottage Knits to read her blog about the project.

Basically, you can send any warm knit item for children ages 2 to 10 (they do take adult and teen size items as well) in any type of yarn (wool, acrylic, blends). I really like this because it leaves it wide open for anyone to make items out of any yarn, in any size, and in any pattern. These items will be collected until July 1st, 2007 and then shipped to Mongolia for use during the winter (which can get down to -40F ... yikes). They also really like double sided fleece blankets. You know the ones that you cut the fringe on the edges of two pieces of fleece and tie the fringe together.

In Mongolia, children are not allowed to go to school during the winter unless they are dressed warmly and for most this is impossible on their own. Knitting a hat, scarf, mitts, sweater, or vest will help them greatly!

There is a wonderful page with many different types of patterns that would be acceptable to make for this project. Or you can go to Knitting Pattern Central and find tons and tons of patterns sorted by type.

I made this Tutti Frutti Hat for Afghans for Afghans project and hope to make a few more for the Dulaan project. It is so easy with no decreasing, just knit a rectangle, fold in half and sew up the sides. You could use any type of knitting design/colours you wanted. I also love this pattern for Mock Earflap Hat in sizes for baby, toddler, child and adult.

I hope you will join me in making even one item for a child in Mongolia. That would be one child that would be warmed by your love and generosity!

Preschooler Sweater

2006-09-22T16:32:00.000-07:00

I thought I would post a picture of the wool sweater I am working on. I started this way back in March and have just now started to continue working on it. I am using a P2 Design pattern called Lonestar. It is supposed to be a 6 month size sweater but I am using worsted weight yarn and size 4.5mm needles so it is working up into around a size 4. I bought the yarn from Elann. They have such an awesome selection of yarns at very good prices. And they always ship really fast!

I am off to a crafting for charity group tonight. This is the first time we are meeting since the spring so I am looking forward to be getting together with other like minded women. I always come home jazzed and ready to do more charity work! Have a great weekend everyone.

2006-09-21T15:50:00.000-07:00

I finished the baby dress yesterday. I am really happy with how it turned out and will be making a bonnet to go with it. Then, I am sending it to HAIN Western Region to be donated to a hospital. I pray that it will be a blessing to a family in need.

First before I start the bonnet I need to finish the wool sweater that I started months and months ago. I need to pick up stitches around the second sleeve and do the finishing work around the neckline. I will post a picture later of what it looks like.

Quilts Donated

2006-09-19T11:21:00.000-07:00

A BIG thanks to all the women who helped make 12 quilts to be donated to a local ECEAP preschool program. Let's all keep up the great work and make even more for next year!

Working On Projects

2006-09-18T11:05:00.000-07:00

We are back from a beautiful weekend at the beach! I am energized for another week and hopefully will get more charity crafting done. The kids are settling into their routine and I am getting back into it as well.

I decided to clean off some of my counter in my sewing room. It was getting sooo crowded with "stuff" that I couldn't find enough room to cut fabric for quilting kits that I am making. We start our first quilty get together on Friday evening so I needed to make up some more kits. While cleaning up I found some knitting projects that I hadn't worked on in a long time (and some quilty ones too).

This hat I started last fall and just never got around to finishing it. I finished it up in a day and now I have a new hat to wear while waiting for kids to get on and off the bus. I used Sirdar's WOW yarn which is thick and chenille like. Worked up fast in seed stitch.

Then I found this white infant dress that I was making. I had run out of yarn but couldn't seem to get back into it after I received more to finish it off. I am using Sirdar's Snuggly 4 Ply for this and plan to make a bonnet to go with.

There were a few other projects hiding in there that are almost complete. What's up with that? I have such a hard time finishing anything. Seems like I get down to the last sleeve of a sweater, or the last finishing of a dress and I can't work on it .... I am bound and determined to finish up some of this stuff! And I'm not going to even go into all the quilty projects I found (maybe another day).

It's Been A While

2006-09-12T06:47:00.000-07:00

Sorry for not posting in the last week. It has been crazy (as most of you with kids can probably attest to). I haven't done hardly any crafting projects so there's not much to write about.

I did finish another dishcloth and gave it to my Mom to try out. She hasn't used a knitted dishcloth before so she is in for a treat! The pattern came from a Yahoo group called MonthlyDishclothes She has two KALs (knit a longs) per month where she posts 6 to 8 rows each day over about 7 days. And the fun part is you don't know what it will look like until you are done. You can see the latest one on the website. It is a maple leaf though you can't really see the pattern from the picture I took.

We are going camping again this weekend so I will have some time to work on a project or two. Hopefully it will be an uneventful weekend (I will make sure the water pump is turned off).

What an Adventure ...

2006-09-05T17:34:00.000-07:00

No one said that having a trailer would become such an adventure! But first, charity stuff. While we were away I managed to knit two hats. A preemie heart hat and a lacey newborn hat.

I am not very happy with the way the heart hat turned out. My choice of yarn colour wasn't very good ... needed more contrast. And the pattern is written different than the sample shows. Changing both the colour and the pattern would have made it turn out much better.

I love the lacey hat. This is the second time I have made it and it turns out so girlie!

Camping Adventure ... It started off on Friday. We had picked up the trailer on Thursday afternoon and Friday evening my DH comes inside the house and tells me that one of the tires on the trailer is flat. Yuck!! He found the jack and got it off. Thankfully it happened while we were at home and not on the road in the middle of nowhere. Saturday morning he took it to the tire store and had it fixed. Turns out I had run over a shiny new screw (I drove the trailer home from the RV store).

And we're off ... sort of! About 45 minutes after we left the house I looked out the side mirror at the trailer and I see water pouring out of the corner of it ... yup ... water. Not just a little trickle but quite a bit of water. Tell DH and he pulls off on the next exit. Get out and water is pouring out of the bottom of the trailer! What in the world happened ... turns out we left the water pump on (RV store forgot to mention that we should turn it off) and a hose that connected the water tank to the water filter came disconnected so the pump was continuously pumping water onto the floor of the trailer. Probably 15 to 20 gallons of water. Thankfully (again God is good) the entire long weekend was hot and it is still hot here so I am sure it will be completely dried out. What a mess! And what an adventure. We had fun once we got to the campground and I managed to get some knitting done too.

Any Cheese for My Whine

2006-08-30T07:17:00.000-07:00

Waaaaahhhh!! My sewing machine is not sounding so good. It was working perfectly fine the other day and what did I do ... I decided I should clean out all the lint inside. Now it makes a clunking sound when I sew. Off to the doctor and hopefully it just needs to be professionally cleaned ...

I did get all the squares finished up for the psychedelic Baby Blanket I am slowly working on. And I finished another dishcloth. I like the colours of this one. Cut out the pieces to work on the beehive block for Amy's Sampler so lots of projects to work on and/or finish. Just wish my sewing machine worked ... don't know how long I can go without it before I start getting major withdrawals!!