Still Here

I didn't realize that it's been so long since my last post. I wish I could say that it was because I was off on some exotic journey--knitting-related, of course--but I can't. The simple fact of the matter is that things just got busy.

I'm still knitting socks. In fact, right now I am test knitting a sock for Wendy Johnson of WendyKnits. It's called Ivy League Socks. It's lacy, but not a problem for someone who hasn't done much lace work. The chart is easy to follow, but has enough elements to keep the knitting interesting.

Wendy has been generous enough to donate the pattern to Patterns for Paws. This is a joint project of The Lily M. Foundation, Inc.'s Lily's Friends and the Purebred Cat Breed Rescue. Patterns will be made available for download, with profits split between the two organizations. If you are a knit or crochet designer and would like to participate, please send an e-mail to ida@knittingpurls.com.

I've also been buying lots of fiber.



That is 100% merino wool in the Ida's Delusions of Grandeur colorway. It came from a cool new etsy store, Zarzuela Fibers. Check it out. Keep in mind, though, that her fibers and yarns go FAST.

So why am I buying fiber? Meet Ezekiel:




Now to find time to actually practice and spin!

I've Come a Long Way, Baby

I just downloaded a pattern from Knitwhits that I am test knitting. Yes, you read that right--I'm test knitting a pattern for a designer! It's called Edie: A Simple Springtime Cardigan. The pattern is designed in Noro Kureyon Worsted and Kureyon Sock. It's beautiful, though I don't know if I'll use the same colors.

I've accomplished a lot knitwise this year, and it's not even half over. After heaven knows how many years with "Learn to knit socks" at the top of my New Year's Resolutions list, I finally did it. I've joined sock-related Ravelry forums, including Summer of Socks. I've knitted sweaters that are nice enough it be gifts. I've test knitting a pattern. And, of course, I launched Knitting Purls.

Speaking of Knitting Purls, I'll be reviewing Flat Feet and the new Knit Picks sock blanks in upcoming issues. Also to be reviewed are SWTC's Soy Silk and Craft.

My knitting life is good.

Ooooh, Malabrigo

I love Malabrigo yarn. Last winter I made a pair of mittens in it, and they are the softest mittens on the planet. I recently heard that Malabrigo is coming out with sockweight yarn. Since finally learning how to knit socks, I've become addicted to sock knitting. I even joined a Sock of the Month Club! Anyway, back to Malabrigo. I contacted them and told them I wanted to review the new yarn for Knitting Purls. So, they sent me 3 skeins, which are shown in the photo. Please keep in mind that the light sucks here, so the color in the photo isn't very good. I can assure you that the color in real life is wonderfully rich. I'm looking forward to reviewing this yarn.

OH, EXTRA GOOD NEWS. There's enough yarn in one skein for a pair of socks, more than 400 yards.

Definitely not too much

I love knitting socks. Once I found a way to do it without the dreaded DPNs or the seam necessitated by using two needles, I was hooked. And I look for every excuse I can find to knit a pair of socks. So, when I discovered Socks of Summer 2008, I quickly signed up. At 12:01 June 21, we can cast on and knit socks to our heart's content. In preparation, I went sock yarn shopping. Above is my sock yarn stash--well, at least the layer you can see. There's a lot from my LYS Spin a Yarn, as well as a healthy dose of Knit Picks yarns. You'll find Felici, Happy Feet, Smooshy Sock, Trekking, Maizy, and Essentials, as well as multitudes more. I'm also waiting on a skein of hand-dyed sock yarn in a gorgeous lime green and blue colorway. I think I'm in sock yarn heaven.

Thinking of you, dear Lily

Today is the yahrzeit of my knitting buddy McKittycreek Lily McMunster. It's been two years, sweet lady, and I miss and love you still.

Taking the Plunge

Here's the photo of my latest pair of socks. It's my basic sock pattern done this time with Trekking XXX. This is the first time I've used this yarn, and I liked working with it. We'll see how well it holds up.

In making this pair, it got me to thinking about how far I've come in the past few months, at least where socks are concerned. I was one of those knitters who felt that I'd never be able to make socks. I just could not (and still can't) get the hang of using DPNs. No matter how many times someone told me, "But you're only working on two at a time," I just couldn't get coordinated enough to use them. I tried making socks with 2 needles, and I even bought short circs, both in an attempt to join in on the sock-knitting craze. Both gave me less than satisfactory results.

So what changed? I learned to do cables. So what do cables have in common with my seriously stockinette socks? On the surface, not much. On a deeper level, confidence. For many years, cables held the same fear and wonder for me that socks had until recently. They looked so complex that I could never see myself tackling them. But then I found a Lion Brand pattern for a cabled afghan. They said it was simple, so I decided to give it a shot. I jumped in, trembling slightly when I reached the first instructions for these things referred to as CR9, CL5. But the instructions for making the cables were clear and, most important to me anyway, actually made sense! Before I knew it, I was off and running with cables.

You still might ask yourself what cables have to do with stockinette socks. Well, after I conquered my fear of cables, I felt as though I could take on anything--knitwise at least. So I took another look at socks. My efforts with DPNs were still pathetic. But then I discovered Magic Loop; it seemed like the answer to my sock-knitting prayers. But alas, my first attempts at MLing were unsuccessful to say the least. I bought the booklet that was supposed to be the "Bible" of MLing. Far from being helpful, I just got increasingly confused. I looked at online videos and bought more books, but some of them contradicted others. What was I to do?

Turn to knitting on 2 circs. That method actually made sense to me. So I knitted a couple of caps using 2 circs. But the lure of MLing was still there, so I tried it again. This time the instructions made sense to me, and I was off and running. Socks, mittens, caps--what a breeze using MLing. And to think, if I hadn't taken the plunge and gained confidence by making cables, I might still be on the sidelines, drooling over the plethora of gorgeous sock yarns and patterns.

Another Discovery

I have discovered the wonderful world of Log Cabin afghans! OK, I'm a late bloomer. I have the Mason Dixon book and had looked longingly of the LCs in there. But for some reason, I just couldn't get the hang of it. Then, at a recent knitting meet-up at my LYS, I happened to mention my desire to do one to the group. The owner heard me, and she came over and explained how to do it! Now it seems so easy.

This LC is a pet blankie for the Lily M. Foundation, Inc., Lily Pad project. Even before it was done, I was mentally designing one for me. I've been working on it along with socks. My new LC started out rather traditionally, but it has taken on a life of its own. That is one of the best things about this kind of knitting. I just start, and when I feel like changing colors--I do!! And it is so nice not to have to count once in a while!!!

Another good thing about LCs is that it's giving me the opportunity to use up a lot of the acrylic I have in my yarn stash. And if I do need to buy a particular color, acrylic yarn is usually a lot less expensive than what I usually buy.

Ida's Basic Ankle Socks

Here's my first sock with a heel. I'm calling it Ida's Basic Ankle Socks. Of course I used Magic Loop. I don't see any reason to start using DPNs now!

I used Adriafil Knitcol. I've not used it before. I liked working with it. I just hope it holds up to laundering.

My First Socks and So Much for Resolutions

Well, they're my first socks knit in the round. They are the Heelless Spiral Socks from Easy Knit Socks. I used my favorite technique--Magic Loop. I swear if it weren't for ML I'd not be able to make socks. Okay, I could use the 2 circs method, but I hate spending money to buy things twice.

I set a knitting goal for myself--knit only from my stash. That lasted until January 3. I knit a pair of mittens for my SIL for Christmas. She loved them so much she asked if I'd make a pair for her granddaughter and another pair for her. I had the yarn in my stash for the little girl's pair, but I had to buy yarn for my SIL. She had requested special colors. So, I'm not taking total responsibility for breaking my resolution!

Liken' Those Mittens

I love knitting mittens. This is the first pair I've made from Malabrigo merino wool in Purple Mystery. Talk about yummy yarn. I just want to roll around in this. I tend not to follow trends, but now I know why so many people seem ga-ga over Malabrigo. And oh how it kept my hands warm when I cleaned off the car yesterday.

Being on the large side, it can take a long time to knit something for me to wear. So I've been knitting Snugabooties for that almost-instant gratification. The same goes for mittens. It's taking me longer to knit a hat than it did to knit mittens. Of course many of my friends and family are getting mittens for the holidays!

I've Been a Knitting Fool

I've been knitting my heart out. First was a pair of mittens for a Ravelry swap. Then there were 2 pair of slippers for a charity thing (only one shown here). Then I decided to alter the slipper design to make a snuggly pair for myself. The slippers are called Snugabooties.

The other day I was sitting in my jammies and cozy Snugabooties, watching television and knitting away. There was a loaf of bread baking in the oven. As I looked out the window the thought came to me that this was the perfect way to spend a snowy day. All right, it was probably close to 50 degrees and there wasn't a flake in the sky, but all the same . . .

KNITPICKS UPDATE
I got an apologetic e-mail from KnitPicks today. Replacements for my malfunctioning points and cables are on their way.

Needle Woes

Most of my family members are getting knitted gifts for the holidays. So, I've be knitting away with with my Knit Picks Harmony and Option interchangeable needles. There have been many complaints about these needles (especially the Harmony) on many of the lists that I frequent. But, I loved them.

Well, I suppose it was only a matter of time, but over the weekend I was plagued by some of the problems experienced by other Harmony users. The points for 2 sizes came out of their metal base. In the middle of a mitten I was Magic Looping, the cable broke from its join.

Needless to say, I'm a lot less enthusiastic about Knit Pick's interchangeable needles--especially Harmony needles--this morning. Many have said how helpful Knit Picks has been in replacing its faulty products. I just sent them an e-mail, so we'll see.

New Obsession

Sometimes you don't know you need something until someone else tells you. I visited my LYS last week, and the owner told me how great fingerless mittens were. I confessed that I never really saw the sense in them. After all, don't you want your fingers to be warm? Well, she explained how great they were for driving, rummaging in your bag, and even shopping.

When I left the store, I really wasn't convinced. But she had mentioned they knit up quickly and I am in need of ideas for knitted holiday gifts. So I turned to trusty Google and came up with several patterns. Obviously I found one. This is the photo of the first fingerless mittens I made. I've now done multiple sets and can't imagine how I ever lived without them!

Heads Up for Something New on the Scene!

As if there isn't enough going on in my life (seven kitties and work can keep one pretty busy), I am launching a free online newsletter. Knitting Purls will debut on January 15, 2008. Please drop me a note if you have suggestions--or if you'd like to contribute an article or pattern. Keep in mind that all of us are working for free.

If you'd like to subscribe to Knitting Purls, please send an e-mail to KnittingPurls@wmseditorial.com.

Lily Pads--Bringing Comfort to Animals

I've noticed that I'm receiving more and more notices about charity knitting projects. I participate in several. Besides being rewarding, it has given me the chance to learn new skills and keep established skills sharp.

It's my turn to post about a charity knitting project that is sponsored by The Lily M. Foundation. It is an ongoing project, so there are no set deadlines. However, I'd like to make a significant donation near the holidays.

Lily’s FriendsTM, a program of The Lily M. Foundation, is collecting Lily Pads—blankets for animals. They will be distributed to shelters and veterinary clinics.
It’s easy to participate. There are just a few things to keep in mind.

Size
Since animals come in all sizes and shapes, Lily Pads can come in almost any size you’d like to make. Suggested sizes are:

Small: 14 X 14
Medium: 16 X 16
Large: 24 X 24

If you find that a full-size Lily Pad is a bit more than you’re comfortable making, please consider knitting a block or two, which we will join to make a pad. Blocks should be either 7-inch or 8-inch squares.

Yarn
The most important factor in choosing yarn for a Lily Pad is washability. Lily Pads must be able to withstand lots of machine washings. Wool is not a good choice. Acrylics hold up very well. Keep in mind that it isn’t necessary to go out and buy the most expensive yarn there is for a Lily Pad. Trust me—it won’t impress the recipient. The yarn should, however, be soft and comfortable.

Pattern
Feel free to use any pattern you’d like. A Lily Pad can be as complicated or as simple as you’d like. Here are some basic patterns.

Knitted Version
Here is a basic pattern that even the novice knitter can easily follow (this pattern will also work for individual 7- or 8-inch blocks):

Using yarn and needle size of your choice

Cast on 1 stitch.
Row 1: Knit front and back of the cast on stitch (you now have 2 stitches on your needle).
Row 2: Knit in the front and back of the first stitch; knit to end (there are 3 stitches on your needle).

Continue in this pattern (knitting in the front and back of the first stitch and then knit to end) until you reach one of the sides reaches the desired length (for example, 14 inches). Then begin decreasing rows.

Decrease row 1: Knit to last two stitches; knit 2 together.
Continue in this pattern until you have 5 stitches remaining. Bind off.

Finishing:
Please make sure to knot all ends and weave in all tails.

Options
Use 2 strands of yarn—same or different colors—held together throughout.
Make a multicolor Lily Pad from yarn left over from other projects.
Use one color for the increasing section, and another for the decreasing one.
Knit smaller blocks and join them (a great takealong project). Note: If you use different colors for the increasing and decreasing sections, this can give your Lily Pad a look similar to the quilt pattern Flying Geese.

Crochet Lily Pad
Use yarn of your choice (nonwool and washable!) and the size hook recommended for your yarn type.
Gauge is not important.

Make a foundation chain of 81 stitches.
Row 1: Make a single crochet in the second chain stitch. Single crochet to end (you’ll have 80 single crochets). Turn.
Row 2: Chain 1. Make a single crochet in each stitch. Turn.
Continue in this pattern until the Lily Pad is the desired size. Fasten off.
Knot all ends before weaving them in.

A Granny for a Furry Fanny
Use the yarn of your choice (no wool and washable please!). This is a great opportunity to use up those single and partial skeins left over from other projects. Of course you can also make it in one color.
Needle: Use the needle size as recommended on the yarn label. Gauge is not important.

Chain 8 and join with a slip stitch to form a loop.
Round 1: Chain 3, 2 double crochet, chain three, *3 double crochet, 3 chain. repeat from * 2 times, which should bring you to the first stitch of the 3-chain stitch pattern.
Round 2: **Chain 3, 2 double crochet, chain 3, 3 double crochet, chain 3 (this gets you around the corner). Make 3 double crochet in each space created by the 3 chain row, chain 1, 3 double crochet; repeat to end of round.
Round 3 and all subsequent rounds: Repeat from ** until the Lily Pad is the size you want. Fasten off.
Knot all ends before weaving in.

Other Lily Pads
You’re not limited to knitting or crocheting a Lily Pad contribution. Lily Pads can be quilted or sewn as well. If you’re making a quilted version, please do not use the tie method to secure the layers. Rag quilts should also be avoided.

Remember, whatever yarn and whatever pattern you use, have fun and know that there will be an animal very grateful that you took the time to make a Lily Pad.

If you have any questions, and to find out where to send your Lily Pads, please contact Ida Walker, lilym@idawalker.com

Red Scarf Project

Again this year, the Orphan Foundation of America is sponsoring its Red Scarf Project. Individuals and organizations are asked to donate up to five unisex red scarves that will be given to kids in foster care for Valentine's Day. You can get information about the program at http://www.orphan.org. They are accepting donations between September 1 and October 15. This is a great way to support a group of young people who are often forgotten.

The Wonderful Wallaby

It seems as though everyone I know has made at least one Wonderful Wallaby. Except me. I'm knitting for the Afghans for Afghans project and decided that it was time for my wallaby. So, I went in search of the pattern, which I bought years ago. I had to stop looking for it. It wasn't where it was supposed to be--or anywhere else from what I can tell. Off to the LYS I went for a new one. Okay, I bought some booty yarn and a few other things as well. My Wallaby yarn should be here in a few days. Then all I have to do is find the time to actually knit it.

Wish me luck!

Ahhhh

I belong to a charity knitting group; okay, I belong to several. But the particular one I'm talking about is Knitting Hope. Each month a new charity is chosen, and we knit something for them. The August project was potholders/hot pads. For September it's baby things.

Now, I'm not a baby person, and I've never knitted for babies or children before. But I've had so much fun expanding my knitting horizons that I've signed up to knit for other babies and children charities. These are my very first booties!

Tote IV

Another Tote Exchange has come and gone. This time I made two for my partner. The first one, called Sleeveless Bag, is a lightly felted one. I love the button. The second one I call Violette. It makes for a handy key chain.

Virtual Vacation Swap Questionnaire Answers

1. If you could visit any state in the US, which would it be and why? Maine. Because I want to live in the Portland Head Lighthouse

2. If you could visit any country in the world, other than your own, which would it be and why? Australia. I'd like to pet a kangaroo

3. Have you ever driven across several states/providence/countries? Yes

4. Have you ever visited someplace you consider exotic? Where was it? No

5. What was your favorite "travel" vacation? Why? I drove from NY to Alabama. Because I did it on my own.

6. Have you ever played tourist in your own home city/state (if international, country)? Explain. No

7. Are you a museum visitor, beach comer or an amusement seeker? Museum

8. What's your favorite type of yarn? Alpaca

9. What's your least favorite type of yarn? Don't have one

10. What items do you like to knit/crochet? Shawls, hats. I'd like to do socks.

11. What do you pack, knit/crochet wise when you go on vacation? Needles, yarn, cutters, measuring tape

12. What other crafts do you do/would like to do other than Knit/Crochet? Bead

13. Are you allergic to anything? (Yarn wise or treat wise) Nothing (unless you count bunnies, birds, dust, and cockroaches)

14. What is your favorite color? Least Favorite? Fav: Purple Least: Black

15. Sweet or Savory (Treat not personality)? Savory

16. Anything else we are forgetting to ask that you think your partner desperately needs to know? I have 7 cats