Kendallknits; Knitting Pretty

Just a Note:

2011-08-25T07:55:00.001-07:00

To say that things ARE actually getting knit and sewn and dyed. They are just having a hard time making it into the blogosphere. Something which I will do my best to remedy after work today. (I even have a post-it reminder to that effect.)

So, dear readers (all 2 of you ^_^) hang in there! And Happy Thursday!

Sock crazy

2011-08-04T04:48:00.001-07:00

I have a bit of a fetish for sock yarn. Not gonna lie. And I was downtown the other day, minding my own business, when I just HAPPENED to step into my LYS to find that they are soon to be closing, and everything is 25% off. What is a knitter to do?

This is Noro Silk Garden sock yarn. Color number is S322. I have no idea what that means, but it sure is purdy, innit?

While the discount is a nice immediate perk, I’m very upset that my beloved LYS is closing. There is another crafty store in town that sells some yarn, but the selection is nowhere near as broad. Not to mention the owners. who are lovely.

Speaking of purdy – I finally have a respectable length completed on my Pomatomus sock. While the scale pattern isn’t totally locked into memory yet, it’s not too difficult. And it’s fairly easy to backtrack if I make a goof.

Also, I have a bunch of blog posts on deck, so stick around!

Collections Blog Tour!

2011-07-18T18:26:00.001-07:00

Hey all!
I’m very excited to announce that I’m taking part in Elegant Musings Collections Blog Tour 2011! Here is the link, so after you check my treasures out, please go and take the tour!

It took me awhile to decide what to post, but I’ve finally chosen a few of my favourite collections to share.

First up, my stash of vintage knitting magazines!

Funnily enough, I’ve never been able to find a date or year on these bad boys, but if I were to hazard a guess, I’d say most of the ones pictured are from the mid 1940s to 50s.

My grandma gave me most of these (she also taught me how to knit). There are names of the previous owners on some of them as well. I love to think of the previous “lives” things have had before they come to live with me.

Next up is my collection of vintage advertisements and posters. These are reproductions (I would kill for the originals).

Now I need some posters featuring my favourite leading men. Among them, Gene Kelly and Dino.

Thanks for stopping by!

Naughty Little Blogger...

2011-07-13T10:24:00.000-07:00

But what else is new? :P
In the next few weeks there will be some cool stuff going down here.
Since I've last posted, work has been the main prio.

On the craft front, I'm in the midst of making oven mitts (first time quilting - interesting). There's also a mail organizer in the works. Both patterns come from this awesome book. Highly recommended.

My sewing machine and I seem to be getting along much better. It was rocky for a bit there.
As for knitting/crocheting, I'm working on some Star Wars stuffies for my Sis and BIL. Yoda and Vader. Pics to come soon.

Also, some super pretty socks.

I’m Baaaaack!

2011-05-03T12:23:00.001-07:00

School, work and trying to keep up with a blog don’t mix for me, as can be seen from my long absence. Now that school is out for the summer, get ready people, ‘cause I’m back and I’m armed with needles, thread and yarn.

Just a quick post before I run off to work today. In addition to being previously bitten by the lace bug, the cable bug, and the fairisle bug, I have a new knitting affliction.

SOCKS!

I’ve got new sock blockers, a good stash of sock yarn, and I’ve recently learned how to knit two socks on one needle (from this book – check it out, it’s awesome). Yep, I’m going sock crazy. Pictures to be posted soon. For real…..I mean it this time ^_^;

The Marilyn Effect

2011-01-19T09:53:00.001-08:00

Random question for all of you out there: Have you ever gone through a “Marilyn Monroe” phase? Can’t read enough about her, are enamoured and utterly enthralled by her?

I’m kind of in one myself – not entirely sure what started it, but there you go. I was talking to my mom about her, and she said that she became really interested in her when she was around my age, so I’m wondering if it’s a common thing.

I just read a really good biography about her, called “The Secret Life of Marilyn Monroe”, by J. Randy Taraborrelli. It chronicles her life from her mother’s past to her own death in 1962. Rather than expounding on all of the myths surrounding the Kennedys and the FBI, this book stays close to documented fact.The appendices and extensive footnotes in the back of the book attest to this fact.

At any rate, it’s a well written exploration of the effect Marilyn’s past and family history had on her career and mental health. There are also lots of interesting facts and remembrances from people in Hollywood at the time who knew Marilyn as well. which rounds out the work, and makes it easy to read.

I highly recommend this biography to anyone interested in Norma Jeane Baker, rather than strictly the persona of Marilyn Monroe.

I just felt like it...

2011-01-15T11:28:00.000-08:00

Ladies and gentlemen!

I give you my first felts (and the crowd goes wild)

I actually wasn't sure how I would like felting, but so far it's pretty fun. Maggie, the instructor, said that I have pretty good technique, which is good. They're all evenly felted with no holes.

Here are some pictures...

The first is Merino wool. *drool* very soft and spongy. It tends to pill, but I think I would live in merino if I could.

This one is the symbol I chose, the Triskelion (also known as Triskele, or Triple Spiral) It's inlayed, which means I put some felt right on top of the white, and felted them at the same time. It's kind of like watercolor.

This last one is my favorite. Love the colors.

Now I get to chop all of these felts up and sew them back together, using elements of my symbol. Lots of stitching in my future.

Knitting reads and pics…

2011-01-12T11:36:00.001-08:00

I thought I’d post some pictures of my fibrous adventures from last term.

The following are from my dye technology class. We learned how to dye with natural and acid dyes. The process is pretty similar with both, but natural dyes take a little longer and have one or two extra steps. My instant gratification side prefers the acid dyes, but I think I’ll have to experiment with natural dyes some more. It just kind of feels wrong not to use a resource that has so little negative impact on the environment.

Also, here are some pictures of my Venus purse.

Next up, I’d like to show off the AWESOME present I got from my sister and BIL. Vampire Knits.

For real, this book is all kinds of amazing. Bringing together two of my favourite geekdoms. (Yes, I like Twilight, but I much prefer the books to the movies. Not that RPatt isn’t a dish).

I’m working on a slightly modified pair of “Bellisima” mittens – I have teeny little hands, and not enough bulky yarn, so I made some adjustments.

I’m also in the process of figuring out if I have enough yardage to make the “Shapeshifter Shrug”. I’d like to try and use up some stash yarn before I make a trip to the LYS (Local Yarn Store, for those not down with the vernacular. ^_^)

WOW.

2010-12-14T08:25:00.001-08:00

I’m not sure if anyone even reads this anymore, I haven’t posted in so long. Not that I haven’t thought about it, mind you. School and work seems to take up an exorbitant amount of my time.

In case anyone is in need of a refresher, I’m just about to finish my first term at the art school here – I’m in the Fibre Program. What can I say? It’s a lot of fun. I have class five days a week. It’s really hands-on, which is a nice change from the academia I’ve been used to at school.

This term I had a Drawing class, Design class, Craft History, Surface Design, Fibre Construction (sewing, essentially) and Dye Technology. Next term, I keep on with the first three classes, but I take Felting and Weaving. SO STOKED, gotta tell ya.

I’m working on my sample book for Dye Tech, which has to be in by Thursday, and a purse, which is due Friday. I’ll try to get some pictures up this afternoon, if I think of it.

Hopefully it won’t be another 3-plus months before I post here again! :P

Chewie!

2010-08-07T10:06:00.001-07:00

He’s finished! And looking damned good, if I do say so.

I couldn’t help myself, and I spilled the beans to Mish and Steve. They’re taking this guy with them when they head out, and will get the rest in the mail.

I decided to change the yarn for the body, as the one I picked originally turned out to be too dark, and you couldn’t really see the eyes. It will work great for ewoks, though.

In other news, my funding came through from student loans, so I can officially afford to go to school (whoohoo!) Can’t tell you how excited I am.

^_^

A long time ago….

2010-08-01T14:10:00.001-07:00

…I don’t know if you’ve heard of Lucy Ravenscar, or seen her Star Wars amigurumi, but I strongly urge you to check it out.

I was toodling around on Ravelry the other day, and saw her R2D2 listed in the pattern tab. So, being a huge Star Wars fan, I found her Etsy page, and couldn’t help myself. I purchased all 10 patterns of the SW characters she had for sale.

(Photo via Etsy)

Now, Nelson is very crafty, but the one thing that it apparently doesn’t have are amigurumi eyes, so I’m waiting for them to come in the mail. Rather impatiently, because these little guys are so damned cute, I want to start right away.

Here is the test swatch that I’ve done for Chewbacca’s fur. I used Bernat Softy Chunky, in Terracotta.

The fulled effect is achieved by brushing the yarn with a wire pet slicker brush (awesome idea, by the way. It works great)

Pretty little yarn cakes…

2010-07-26T19:17:00.001-07:00

Last week, I treated myself to some crafty overindulgence. I’ve wanted both of these things for awhile now, and I finally buckled, but it was totally worth it.

Yarn Swift.

For those unfamiliar with what this contraption is, it’s used to help wind yarn. First, you take a skein of yarn and place it over the swift. This one is called an umbrella swift, for obvious reasons. Once the yarn is on the swift, you take the end and wind it into a ball. This can be done by hand, or by using a…..

Ball-winder.

Some may say that this tool is kind of redundant, as you can quite easily wind a center-pull ball by hand. This is true, but in all honesty, the ball-winder is just plain FUN! It takes no time at all. And you end up with these cute little uniform yarn cakes.

Things that grow…

2010-07-23T13:40:00.001-07:00

1) I’ve put my green thumb to work a bit. and now have a lovely little planter sitting on my windowsill. Truth be told, all of the materials (peat moss, seeds, etc. came in a kit, but I’ll still take the credit ^_^)

I’m growing green tea and some other various planties. There’s something about watching plant life grow that gives me a good feeling. In this period of uber technology, dominated by supercomputers and the millionth version of the ipod, I think it’s cool to watch a bit of nature at work.

What can I say? Simple things.

2) Speaking of growing things, my afghan is slowly but surely getting there. I’ve just finished the first of five panels. and am almost finished the second – which is EXACTLY THE SAME. Ugh. At least I’ve memorized the cable charts by now…

Randomly on a Sunday….

2010-06-20T05:25:00.001-07:00

Hello, all;

Once again, things are busy around here. Working lots, knitting as much as a I can. Too bad those little annoyances of eating and sleeping keep getting in my way.

1) HAPPY FATHER’S DAY to my awesome Daddy-o! There is a very low chance of him actually reading this, but gotta put it out there anyways. Love you Dad, thank you for everything that you do.

2)My parents are coming for a visit! On the 26th and 27th of June! Can’t wait to see them!

3) I’ve managed to book those days off of work, so I actually GET to see them – huzzah! I have a feeling we’ll be making a trip to the local pool with the baby bean. He’s super cute when he’s in the water.

4) I’ve started an afghan. True, in the last little while I’ve started about 3 different afghans, but for various reasons, none of the patterns seemed to stick or grab my interest long enough for me to make any real progress.

While I was visiting the Okanagan a few weeks ago, I got the chance to visit with my grandma, who taught me to knit, and is my co-conspirator in all things fibre-related.

She gave me an awesome book that she had, called The Great Afghan Book. In it are tons of, forgive me, “great” afghan patterns, but one in particular called “Aran Isles”. She had entered it into the PNE years ago, and won a prize. Also, she make another this year for my dad’s 50th. So, I decided to continue the tradition, if you will, and make one for myself.

I’ll post some pictures soon, when I have something worthwhile to show. Right now, it’s pretty much just 2 huge balls of yarn.

Teeniest of tiny posts...

2010-06-11T20:47:00.000-07:00

Just have to quickly update you all...I got my BA today! Major in English, Minor in Psychology.
It was been such a long day, the ceremony was up at the UBC-O campus. It was such a cool experience. One which I don't think I'll fully get my head around for a couple days.

Super bagged after all of the build up, though. I've been having a nice visit back home here with my parents. Tomorrow's my last full day, then it's back to the grind Monday morning.

Hope that June is treating you all well!
I'l snag some pics from my parents' camera when I get the chance.

<3

Progress

2010-05-29T11:49:00.001-07:00

Despite the state of the blog as of late, I have actually been getting quite a lot accomplished.

1)I've finished my Mom’s Capelet. Which to me is more of a shawl, but at any rate it turned out damned pretty. It’s blocked and everything, and is just waiting for me to pack it up to take to the Okanagan.

2)I found the cutest crochet pattern for GIR, a character from the cartoon “Invader Zim”. I’ve made one up, which I gave to mu sister. She loves it. I also showed it to a friend of mine, who commissioned two more for her boys. So those guys are in the works. They still need eyes and arms.

3) Graduation is looming! I’m receiving my BA in English on June 11th. Can’t wait to go home for a visit. Of course, being the slightly obsessed fibreista that I am, I couldn’t let the occasion go without making something.

I found a really cute capelet pattern in Debbie Stoller’s Stitch and Bitch: The Happy Hooker. called “Cold Shoulders”. I used Manos de Uruguay – Wool Classica, in the Wildflowers colorway. So nice to work with.

4) Yesterday I finally bit the bullet and sighed up for an Etsy account. Truth be told, I’m a little nervous. But, it’s something that I’ve been thinking about for a while now, so I took the plunge!

Username is kendallknits. A shop is soon to follow, once I get some more of my duckies in a row. Stay tuned!

holy.....

2010-05-11T15:40:00.001-07:00

Due to a shortage of time, our regular blog post will not be appearing today.

In its place, I give you...

the greatness of Adam West and Burt Ward, in none other than BATMAN: The Movie. Seriously, it is totally worth it. Shark-repellant Bat Spray. Just saying.

Random Update…

2010-05-07T18:17:00.001-07:00

(“Borrowing” this format from the Yarn Harlot. Check out her blog, by the way. I have it listed in the sidebar. It’s all kinds of fantastic)

1) I’m 8 repeats away from being finished with the border of my mom’s Lace Capelet. So excited to be finished with the knitting soon. I’m at the point in a project where you just kind of want to throw it across the room or hide it in a closet so you don’t have to look at it anymore.

2) I have tomorrow off (yay!). Not quite sure what I’m going to do with myself. Some sort of craftyness, I’m sure. I’ll probably spend some time with my sissy and Cocobean.

3) For documentary lovers out there, here’s an awesome link to a site with tons of free documentaries. I’m watching one at the moment about the Hitler Youth in WWII Germany. The docs aren’t all that morose, I promise.

That’s all I have to say for now. I’d post some crafty pictures, but they’re not really any different than the ones I put up a few days ago, so I’ll spare you. ^_^

Vintage Inspired Knits…

2010-05-03T17:18:00.001-07:00

I’ve gotten my hands on some great vintage pattern books lately.

I’ve had this Patons booklet, “Afghans to Knit and Crochet” for a few years now, and I’m finally ready to make something from it.

I’m planning to make the last pattern in this booklet, called “Autumn Leaves” (Ravelry link). I’ll be using two gigantic balls of Red Heart Comfort Solids, in a dark grey. Not the highest quality yarn, but this baby is just for me (more specifically my couch). Also, I’ve never really had a problem with this yarn, as long as it’s used for pretty utilitarian objects, and not a shawl or something.

Speaking of shawls, the Lace Capelet (Ravelry link) had a bit of a set back. I’d gotten about 9 repeats of the border done, and was snipping some stray yarn ends from a join that I’d done.
Horror of horrors, I accidentally cut the working yarn, creating a big hole. It’s ripped back and fixed now. Needles to say, I won’t be making that mistake again any time soon.

** I ruined the surprise, and showed my mom her Mother's Day present while she was here. She needed a pick me up, so it was worth it. ^_^

Good freaking morning…

2010-04-26T21:10:00.001-07:00

So, I get woken up at about 4:00 this morning to something wet… and discover than my cat has, for some reason, decided to pee all over my comforter.

Yeah. Gross.

I took care of it the best I could, rinsed and “Shout”-ed it, changed the comforter, and went back to bed. I woke up with 10 minutes to go before the bus came. Boo urns.

On the bright side, I’m on the last lace repeat of my Lace Capelet (rav link) from Vogue Knitting Spring/Summer 2010. Pictures forthcoming. It’s looking mighty scrunchy at the moment, but I’m sure blocking will smooth it out. I’m using Ella Rae Classic, in “Slate”. It’s for my mom’s birthday/mother’s day (they always fall really close together, if not on the same day). My parents are coming up on Saturday. It may be folly, but I’m kind of hoping to have it finished by then. We’ll see.

Also on the needles is “Helena”, a toddlers sweater (making the 4 yr old size) for friends who recently welcomed their first daughter, Gabby.

In the queue is the “Swallowtail” shawl (rav link), which I tried to make a few years ago. My lace skills have improved dramatically since then, so it should go more smoothly.

Let’s talk about “fil-ums”….

2010-04-15T00:18:00.001-07:00

…as my grandma used to call movies. ^_^

I am a self-described movie buff, and I recently went on a bit of a movie jag. I love having something to watch/listen to when I’m knitting or working on a pattern, and movies fit the bill rather nicely.

I’m going to talk about one of the movies that I’ve just seen. Revolutionary Road

This movie marks the first time that Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet have shared the screen since “Titanic” in 1997. I have to say that going into this film, I honestly had no idea about the plot or anything, which I’m really glad about. It let me view the story with no preconceptions.

A quick run-down: Frank and April Wheeler are a seemingly “happy” couple living the American Dream in the 1950s. Frank has an office job in the city, and April is a stay-at-home mother with two children. The film centers around the gradual deterioration of the marriage, and brings to light issues that each has been repressing, resulting in an overall gripping and explosive piece.

Directed by Sam Mendes (American Beauty – another fantastic movie, go watch it now if you haven’t already done so) this movie is on one level an examination of life in the 1950s, and the issues that people were dealing with, but I found that on a broader level it spoke to contemporary audiences. It could very easily have been set in 2010. The specific issues may have changed, but human dynamics and interactions are still central.

In short, fascinating character study, wonderful acting, directing (yes, I know I’m gushing. Sue me.) Not really a feel-good movie, but definitely worth it.

In other news, I made a trip to KSA to drop off my deposit, so I’m official! (yay), and I also stopped at the LYS. The yarn was for a gift, so I don’t have to feel guilty :P

In like Flynn, baby!

2010-04-11T18:20:00.001-07:00

Very exciting news, people! I finished my portfolio, sent it in to KSA on Thursday, went back Friday for an interview and…..I got IN!

I am so unbelievably stoked, it’s kind of ridiculous. It is going to be such a change from the academia I’ve been used to the past 5 years. Don’t get me wrong, I still love literature, but this program is really where my heart is.

Unfortunately, this also means more student loans, but it is totally going to be worth it. I’ve been flying high the last 2 days just thinking about it. I have to wait for some official documentation, and send in a deposit, but then I’m officially a Fibre student in the 2010 program. Whoot!

Some clues as to what my portfolio encompassed…

Now that the stress is over and the portfolio is finished, I think I will feel a lot more like blogging. Something that I’ve said before, I know, but I'll try my best.

Bits and Pieces…

2010-04-01T23:34:00.001-07:00

As per usual, there’s been quite a bit going on around here. Like I promised in my last post, I’ve got some photos to share. First off, I’d like you to meet my new addition….

MOOSE! My 5 year old SPCA find. He’s such a sweetheart.

I’d been having some problems with mice in my apartment (nothing unexpected really. It’s an old building). Though the mice are now gone, it was really just a veiled excuse for me to get a cat. I’ve grown up with pets, and have wanted one for ages.

I could elaborate on some other things in the works right now, but I don’t want to try and stuff too much into one post. Besides, it’ll keep me from being lazy on the blog front.

Here are some teasers…

Giving up the ghost....

2010-03-22T08:25:00.000-07:00

It's been over a month since I've posted last. Which makes me kind of sad. However, the last little while has been rather busy with work, a visit from me mom, and a new addition. (Details and perhaps pictures later, if I can remember to use my damned camera. I always have good intentions, you know. They just get lost somewhere....)

Not much to report at the moment. About to eat a scrumptious-looking cinnamon bun. Nom nom.

Getting rockier...

2010-02-18T10:54:00.000-08:00

So, I recovered from Yarngate 2010, and I got through about 20 rows of the establishing lace pattern yesterday. However, because I've been working so much, I didn't have time to swatch before the Olympics started.

I bought Misti Alpaca Lace solids, thinking (perhaps rather stupidly as it now turns out) that it would adapt to this shawl well. Though it's lovely to work with, and very soft, it's also a very thin yarn. The pattern is not really turning out at all - very difficult to see.

So, I decided to try some sock yarn that I had lying around. Online, self striping. The weight is much better. But now I'm not sure about the striping. I think what I will do is use some Red Heart Divine Sport that I have in my stash. The pattern says that the shawl can be knit in laceweight or sock/sport weight, and I think the pattern will show up best in a solid color.

Let's hope that I can actually make some bloody progress on this thing. Not giving up yet, I still have 9 days!

Off to a rocky start...

2010-02-17T09:04:00.000-08:00

As we all know, the Vancouver 2o1o Olympic Games began on the 12th.
I had my yarn and my pattern out and ready to go (Haruni [Ravelry Link] by Emily Ross).

Unfortunately, the knitting gods decided to demonstrate their twisted sense of humor, and I ended up with the biggest mass of yarn-barf I've ever seen. I don't know what happened, but something went awry with the ball winding process.

It's taken me 5 days, and a few choice words to said yarn tangle, but I managed to get a nice looking, orderly ball. Finally going to cast on for the shawl tonight. I'm hoping that, as I've already got a fair bit of lace experience under my belt, I'll be able to make up for lost time pretty quickly. This shawl is also my only Olympic project, so that should be in my favor as well.

Happy Knitting All!
(Go Canada, Go!)

Ruining my disposition...

2010-02-03T09:37:00.000-08:00

with books!

I can't think of a better way to go.

With the internet (and full on blog/craftiverse capabilities) still 7 days away, I've been making quite a few trips to the local library.

Here are a few of the books I've got on my plate.

Brando: Songs My Mother Taught Me - Marlon Brando and Robert Lindsey

From Wikipedia:

"The book is not so much a collection of described chronological events as it is a medium for Brando's thoughts and beliefs, all voiced through a diverse array of topics. Particularly later on in the book, he intersperses stories from both his youth and his older years. Brando doesn't delve into himself more than he needs to. His actual coverage of his films tends to be succinct, characterised more by anecdotes than step-by-step descriptions of production."

Having just seen "The Godfather" and "The Godfather Part II", I've recently become interested in the life of this reclusive star. I'm not too familiar with alot of his films, having first heard about his work on Broadway. I took a good long scan through his autobiography last night and I really like the structure. There is less of a linear timeline, and it's really just a mish-mash of recollections.

To me this seems like the logical way of going about writing a biography. Life is messy and rather mixed up, as should the writing of one's life be.

The Secret Lives of Saints - Daphne Bramham

Some may have noticed that I've been reading quite a few books on the subject of polygamy lately. I'm not quite sure what has drawn me to the subject, but I find it very interesting. I think maybe it has something to do with the idea of a group of people living out this sort of "biblical fantasy" in the modern world.

My sister and I were talking about this over tea yesterday - the beliefs of Mormans - fundamentalists and mainstream alike - aren't really so different from the beliefs of, say, the Roman Catholic Church.

Is the idea of a man creating food and drink for thousands out of practically nothing, and rising from the dead any stranger than the idea of a man being visited by angels and finding ancient golden tablets in a hill?

I think what may give us pause is that Christianity and the Jesus story are so well established that society fails to question it's believability - it's just taken as a "fact", whereas the Mormon faith is only a hundred years old, and is well-documented in recent history.

*As a sidenote, I'm not trying to badmouth any religions here, just putting some thoughts out there.

knit knit knit...scald...owwwww

2010-01-28T09:49:00.000-08:00

My brain has been teeming with ideas for new knits.
I'm just in the process of swatching for a raglan cardigan. It's going to be top-down, st st until just below the bustline, and then will switch to a lace repeat of some sort. That's what it looks like in my head at any rate. We'll see if I can make it a reality.

Unfortunately, I burned the &@*! out of my thumb yesterday, so all actual knitting plans are on hold for a few days. Very sad. I think I'll work on my sketches and the "write-y" bits for my portfolio instead.

The word on the street is that I should have internet on February 10th (sigh). Seriously, I can't wait! I have so much to show!

Still no dice...

2010-01-24T18:18:00.000-08:00

...on the internet front Which is really starting to piss me off, to be honest. The bugger is that I actually HAVE internet, I just don't have the modem to connect to the internet. Hopefully by the end of the week I will be all hooked up and back in the blogiverse.

The good news is that I finally have a phone (yay), so I'm no longer completely cut off from the outside world.

Updates to follow soon (I hope).

Monday, Monday

2010-01-18T10:05:00.000-08:00

Hello fellow bloggers.
I hope Monday is treating you well.

My weekend was relatively mellow, but good. It was my birthday on Friday (I am now the ripe old age of 24), and my sister invited me over for dinner (so goood) and then came down to my place for drinks, craftytimes, and musicals.

On the crafty front, I've finished the Leaf Lace Shawl (FINALLY!) All that is left to do is the blocking. Unfortunately, still no internet on the homestead, so you will all have to wait for pictures.

Seeing as I don't have much to report/show you, I'm going to do a review of a movie that's been a favorite of mine for a long time now.

The Hours

Based on the novel by Michael Cunningham (which I highly suggest you read, by the way. It's excellent), The Hours follows the lives of three women: Virginia Woolf, as she writes the novel "Mrs. Dalloway", Laura Brown, an seemingly content 1950s housewife, reading "Mrs. Dalloway", and Clarissa Vaughn, a publisher and party planner, who is the Mrs. Dalloway figure of the film.

I'll try not to say too much about the plot, except that the lives of these women are drawn together and intertwined to become more than simply plot-driven storylines. The film at once accepts death and the grief of life while shedding light on and reminding the viewer of the importance of connection.
Virginia states in the film, when discussing one of the characters in her novel: "Someone has to die in order for the rest of us to value life"

The cast of this film is wonderful, including Meryl Streep, Julianne Moore, Nicole Kidman, John C. Reilly, Stephen Dillane, Toni Collette, Ed Harris, Allison Janney, Claire Danes, and Miranda Richardson, to name a few.

Twice in a week!

2010-01-14T09:18:00.000-08:00

Haha! I am determined to beat this blog-lag that I seem to have developed of late.
Even if it's just a teeny post.
For some reason my phone line refuses to work, which means no phone or internet until Telus has a technician come to fix it. That's not happening until the 26th (lame), so unfortunately, no pictures or anything fun like that for a few weeks.

I've changed my mind on how to finish the Leaf Lace Shawl (surprised? Didn't think so :P) Rather than do a knit-on border, I'm casting off and making up a crocheted fan border. Yay! Hoping to get it mostly finished by tonight. The rest of my portfolio projects will zoom by, I'm sure, after finishing this beast.

Still here. Really!

2010-01-12T09:00:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not, I'm still around and kicking.
I'm all moved into my new place (sans a few larger bits of furniture, to be brought via U-Haul by my parents in a month). It's super cute, too. Unfortunately, my internet and phone aren't hooked up yet, so I've been relegated to using the interweb at work.
Soon, crafty peeps. Today, perhaps? Not holding my breath, though.

The Leaf Lace Shawl is on the last pattern repeat (YAY!), then I will do a few rows of garter and start the knit-on border. Very excited about this. For one thing, the rows will be a heck of a lot shorter! Top-down shawls are great in the beginning, because they move along so quickly, but I've got to tell you it's been a bit of a monotonous go, near the end.

The body is worked in a bright green Red Heart Comfort Sport. The border is going to be worked in a fan lace pattern, in a bright pink. It may not be for everyone, but I had this idea of a cactus flower (bright pink setting off green), and I'm going with it. There may be some clear beads involved as well. I haven't decided quite yet.

Horrendously late...

2010-01-04T09:50:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's been so long since I last posted.
The holiday season flew by. What with work, vacation, and moving, the blog (once again) has taken a back seat. I really need to make a habit of posting in here every day.

Christmas was great, if short. Misha, Steve and I headed home on Christmas Eve, after Steve got off of work. This year was quite different for me. For the past 5 years I've been at university, so the breaks were much longer. It was fun to kind of leave it to the last second. Definitely amped up the anticipation.

Mom and Dad were so excited to see Cohen. It's neat to see him becoming closer to them. It takes less and less time now for him to warm up to them. They try to make a point of seeing him at least once a month, which helps.

Everyone loved their gifts. It was very low-key, though the grandparents did go a little overboard on baby gifts ^_^.
My spinning wheel arrived on Christmas Eve. I had just enough time to run to the post office and pick it up. It is now happily ensconced in my new apartment, waiting for me to learn how to use it.

In other crafty news, on Boxing Day, I found a Singer sewing machine for a great deal at Walmart. There really is no stopping my craftiness. It's a little bit out of hand.
I'm planning on making some quirky stuffed creatures for my fibre portfolio. Which is coming along, albeit slowly. The Leaf Lace Shawl is almost finished. I have a few more inches to get the length that I'd like, and then I'm going to do a knit-on border.
Check out this older post for a link to a tutorial.

She works hard for the money...

2009-12-15T08:42:00.000-08:00

The blog (and pretty much everything else that isn't eating or sleeping at this point) has suffered as of late. I'm working like mad right now. Which is a really good thing, because I'm moving in January, and what with Rent, the damage deposit, setting up bills and such, I sure need the extra moolah. It's just kind of lame in that I haven't really been able to get crafty. (Or finish Christmas presents, or start packing to move :P)

I've almost finished my sister's present (yay), and I think that it's going to be the last one on my list. I have absolutely no idea what do get my dad. We ask him every year, and he's never able to give a coherent answer. Maybe inspiration will strike this year...

Still waiting - rather impatiently, now - on the spinning wheel front. I'm hoping that it will come sometime this week. I've also ordered the Start Spinning DVD from Interweave Press. That one is shipping out as well. I'm so looking forward to getting settled in my new place and going fibre crazy.

The countdown begins....

2009-12-08T08:41:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's the 8th of December already. Somewhat surprisingly, most of my holiday knitting is right on track (which is almost a first - last year was pretty good). I wish I could say the same for my portfolio, but it's getting there.

Speaking of holiday knitting, I've got some pictures to share. Given that it's highly unlikely that the recipient of this gift will randomly visit my blog, I think that its safe to post these picutres.

Presenting Sackboy, from the popular game, "Little Big Planet". This little guy knit up very quickly. It only took me about 2 days. Keep in mind that I was a wee bit obsessed with it as I was going along. He turned out great. I may have to make some more of these guys.

Further news on the knitting front, I'm planning on making some snoods, both for my portfolio, and for my sister for Christmas. Hopefully they will help a bit in saving all her lovely long hair from being pulled out by a certain curious baby I know. ^_^

Off the needles...and on ^_^

2009-12-03T00:23:00.001-08:00

I've finished another project for my portfolio. The Celtic Cable scarf is finished!

The finished scarf has 25 repeats of the Celtic pattern. I really like how the cables stand out. This yarn also has flecks of red in it.

Next up on the needles is another portfolio project, a Leaf Lace Shawl. I’m working a leaf lace repeat until the shawl is the size that I’d like (not sure how big I will make it yet). Then I’m planning on working a few rows of garter stitch with beads, and working a lace border. I found a really good tutorial on how to add borders to shawls. I’m excited to try it.

In other news, my spinning wheel is officially on the way. I got word through UPS, it’s in their system. I’m sure these menial updates may get kind of boring, but I can’t help myself. ^_^

Eeeeeee!

2009-11-30T15:15:00.001-08:00

That is generally the sound that I make when I am really excited.
I got word that my spinning wheel was shipped today. Yay!

I've got a tracking number, but I'm not getting a read on the parcel yet, because I think was shipped too recently to have actually been tracked yet.
Does that make any kind of sense? I'm going to go with it.

I know there's probably up to a week's wait on this thing, but I'm not going to let that dampen my enthusiasm!

:P

The obsession deepens...

2009-11-27T15:48:00.000-08:00

After thinking about it and pining for 2 years, I've finally bit the bullet.
I, my friends, have just ordered my first spinning wheel!
After doing some fairly extensive research on the internet, and asking around, I've purchased a Baynes Single Drive, Double Treadle Scotch Tension wheel with a clear finish.

Luckily the distributor had one in stock, so it won't have to be shipped from New Zealand. The order goes out on Monday. Have I mentioned that I'm excited?

Also, an interesting tidbit I learned today: did you know that Ashford and Baynes wheels are made in the same town? Small world.

New Skillz….

2009-11-24T20:02:00.001-08:00

So, I couldn’t help myself, and I popped over to Walmart to get some fabric and notions for my portfolio projects.

I was surprised at how inexpensive it turned out. I’ll be able to make a bag and a top for $20.

All Crafty, all the time...

2009-11-24T08:30:00.000-08:00

Wandering downtown yesterday, I popped into the local bookstore to gaze at their crafty fare, as I am wont to do. I found this book:

and I couldn't put it down. I must have sat there looking through it for a good 15-20 minutes. Needless to say, I snatched it up. It only cost around $30, which is a great deal for all the patterns and ideas in it. One of my favorite aspects to the book is the thorough introduction, which goes over basic sewing techniques, and the index. Being a novice seamstress, I can tell that I'll be referencing both quite a lot.

I'm planning on using this book to help me add some sewing projects to my portfolio for the Fibre program. I think when the next paycheck comes around, I'll have to to a Walmart run, and get my craft on.

Feeling bookish...

2009-11-18T13:38:00.000-08:00

As always, I've had my nose stuck in some great books lately. My wrists have been sore, so I haven't really knit for a few days, but luckily I've had these to keep me company:

The Pact - Jodi PicoultI couldn't read this book fast enough. The premise had me interested right from the get go. Chris Harte and Emily Gold have known each other all their lives, progressing from childhood best friends to high school sweethearts.
The two families are torn apart when Emily is found dead and Chris is injured, apparently due to a failed suicide pact. The novel alternates between the past, fleshing out Emily and Chris' relationship, and the present, focusing on the families and how they deal with the aftermath of Emily's death.

Lost Boy - Brent Jeffs
An interesting memoir focusing on modern-day polygamy, written by Brent Jeffs, the nephew of infamous FLDS Prophet Warren Jeffs. I find the subject of Mormonism, and particularly the subject of celestial marriage intriguing. I've been a fan of the HBO series "Big Love" since it started, and I just read "The 19th Wife", which also touches on the subject. I've got a few other memoirs on the docket, as I'd like to get as clear a picture on the subject as I can.

You Better Work

2009-11-16T19:05:00.000-08:00

I started my new job in the Safeway Deli Department on Saturday. Hurrah for employment! I’m enjoying it so far. The staff are really nice and helpful. And I haven’t burned myself in the oven yet, which is a plus :P.
Working at Safeway, along with my other part time job has left little time for knitting, and even less time for blogging about knitting.
I’ve started another project (which is okay, since I just got 3 off the needles – kicking so much ass in the Holiday Knitting department) that is chalk full of cables. Plus, it’s my own design, which is cool.
Using Bernat Berella 4 yarn, and 4.5 mm needles, I cast on 40 sts and am working a Celtic Cable repeat. So far I’ve got 4 repeats done. I love how this is turning out. This is another one for the portfolio, but I also may end up gifting this as well.

Speaking of said scarf, I think I’ll go work on it right now.

Experimenting…

2009-11-06T10:02:00.001-08:00

I just downloaded the new version of Windows Live, and this handy little program called Windows Live Writer was included. Basically all it does is allow you to update your blog right from your desktop. rather than having to log into your blog. It may be a bit redundant, but so far I like it.

Cohen’s present is coming along quickly. I just have one word to say: LEGS! Ugh. So many…

My dad and grandma are coming for a visit tomorrow. Grandma is the one who taught me how to knit, so I’m stoked to be able to show her some of the things I’ve been working on. Especially some of the things I’m designing myself, for my portfolio; I’m sure she can give me some words of wisdom. The LYS will also be open tomorrow, so I have a feeling I may treat myself a bit, and have some yummy yarns to share.

Better late than never...

2009-11-03T19:14:00.000-08:00

By the time I remembered about posting last night, it was about 11:00 and I was too wiped to be bothered. But fear not, faithful readers, I've got new pictures to share.

Some of these pictures are going to be a little bit different. I'm working on tons of Christmas presents right now, so alot of the pictures are "artistic", and have been linked to my Ravelry page.

The first two are sure to keep their respective recipients warm and toasty!

Mystery Gift #1

Mystery Gift #2

This little creature is for my nephew, and I'm having a blast making him. It's turning out to be easier than I expected.

Mystery Gift #3

I've just got another part time job, which is great monetarily, but may cut down on the knitting time. At any rate, there are a few more presents on the docket, and they are sure to make an appearance here at some point.

Quickie...

2009-11-02T06:39:00.000-08:00

There has been knitting.
Just thought I'd let you all know that I haven't fallen off the face of the planet. There has been brown knitting and red knitting and orange knitting. Even some lace and crochet thrown in for good measure.
All of these things will be documented via camera when I get home from work this afternoon. Now, however, is tea time!

Books...and other things

2009-10-19T10:17:00.001-07:00

We moved back into our apartment last week. ^_^
We all spent a good part of yesterday organizing and getting comfortable again. It feels so good to have access to all of my things again. Most notably my clothes and yarn!

Pictures of projects coming soon. I've been kind of indecisive lately in my knitting. I'll start one project, then have a different idea for that particular yarn, or want to make something else.
One thing that has definitely been started is Christmas presents. I think I'm going to have to write out a list so I can keep on track things.

I've been frequenting my library alot lately, and have some great books to share:

Lost Moon: The Perilous Voyage of Apollo 13 by James Lovell and Jeffery Kluger
Most everyone will be familiar with the 1995 movie, which is based on this book. Lovell and his co-author Jeffery Kluger did a great job of laying out the events of the mission, as well as the history behind the NASA space programs, and the roles of those in mission control. Not finished this book yet, but I'm really enjoying it. A must for any space enthusiast.

The Tale of Beatrix Potter by Margret Lane
This biography, written shortly after Beatrix Potters' death, gives surprising insight into her lonely childhood, and what inspired her to create such memorable characters as Peter Rabbit and Jemima Puddle Duck.

The 19th Wife: A Novel by David Ebershoff
A murder-mystery of a different sort. I'm only about 50 pages into this novel, and I can't put it down. There are two different storylines; one told by Ann Eliza Young, 19th wife of Mormon leader and polygamist Brigham Young. Ann Eliza describes the beginnings of polygamy, growing up as a child of polygamy, and her decision to leave it.
The second storyline parallels the first, and is told by Jordan Scott, thrown out of a polygamist sect at 14, who must come back years later to try and help his mother, also a 19th wife, who is on trial for the murder of her husband.

There's a song inside my head...

2009-10-08T11:43:00.000-07:00

No progress to report on either front (knitting or apartment). Which is kind of lame. I had to rip back on the shawl and start the lace over, but it will get there.

I've got some musical recommendations today. All are BC artists, and both are awesome. The first is Maiya Robbie. A friend of mine and a lovely person and talent.
Also check out Shane Koyczan and the Short Story Long, of which she is also a part. Shane is a renowned Canadian slam poet. And well, he pretty much kicks ass all round.
Lastly, Dan Mangan. Loves it.

These artists always get me inspired, so have a listen. I hope they do the same for you.

Almost home

2009-10-05T11:56:00.000-07:00

Our floors were finished yesterday, and they look really good. Which is a blessing, because I miss all my stuff ^_^. All that needs to be done now are the baseboards, and general cleaning up. We're hoping to be back in by Wednesday.

My sister has her first day back at school today. She's in a culinary arts program here. I'm excited about this for a few reasons.
1) She loves to cook, and we get to be her guinea pigs = really good dinners and treats.
2) She loves what she does, and I'm happy that she's in the last year of her program.
3) While she's at school, I'm on babysitting duty. I can't wait to get home and hang out with Cohen.

In knitting news, I've scrapped the "Traveling Woman" shawl (much as I love it) in favor of designing my own shawl. I'm doing pretty well so far, working a top-down triangular in stockinette stitch. I'm planning on keeping the shawl divided in two (think "Swallowtail") and adding an Oriel Lace pattern.

I'm getting my lace motifs from "Super Stitches Knitting", which is a good resource.
I'm knitting the shawl on 5.0mm circular needles, in Bernat Satin Solids: Orange.

I hope to have some pictures up soon, providing we move back in on time, and barring any knitting disasters. Here's hoping my lace skills and the increases agree with each other!

Get your geek on

2009-09-29T20:18:00.000-07:00

I realize that it is likely no one will be able to see it, but I did some techno-sleuthing on the net today and found some really cool fonts for my blog/Word. Along with being really cool looking, they are also really obscure.
Oh well, I learned a new skill.
And if nothing else, I'm writing a blog that I'll enjoy.
If anyone's interested, I'm using "RedstarBold".
^_^
I finished my feather and fan autumn scarf, it just needs blocking.
Now I'm off to start the "Travelling Woman" shawl. Hazah.

Still waiting...

2009-09-28T08:52:00.000-07:00

for the floors to be finished. And wishing that I had taken out more than a weeks' worth of clothing.

I've been knitting up a storm. Something about the fall always puts me in a creative frame of mind. I love curling up on the couch with a cuppa and my needles. I'm getting close to finishig my Autumn Scarf for my portfolio. It's curling at the sides, but I'm hoping that it's nothing a good steam-blocking won't fix.

I'm also planning on casting on for the "Traveling Woman" shawlette. I fell in love with it as soon as I saw it on Ravelry. I'm undecided which yarn to use for it, though. Maybe someone can help me out.
I've got Bernat Berella 4 in Teal, which is an aran weight. The pattern calls for fingering weight, but I think that the aran would make for a nice fall/winter shawl, and I love the color.
The second yarn choice is Bernat Satin in orange. This yarn is closer to the weight specified, but I'm not as crazy about the color for a shawl.

Whichever yarn I don't use, I'm planning on using for a lace top I'm designing. Any help would be great, as I appear to be stuck.

Pictures coming as soon as we're back in our place. Should be by Wednesday (I HOPE!)

Oh, these days...

2009-09-08T19:18:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I feel bad for having a blog, because it's been hard for me to get motivated and writing posts. I was just getting geared up to post all about my recent knitting forays, but between changing my mind tons of times (for which I'm norotious) and starting work, and apartment issues, I keep pushing it to the bottom of the list.

Said apartment issues are good ones - our current carpet is rather disgusting, so our awesome landlords are having new flooring put in. Which is great, but it means that we have to relocate for about a week. Really looking forward to new floor, though.

On the needles:
Sisterhood Crochet Blanket. Squares are finished, just working on ornamental flowers and sewing together.

Feather and Fan Autumn Scarf - This is my own pattern, made with Bernat Worsted Ombre in "Rustic Rodeo". I really like how the colors are coming out, and am planning on using this as part of my portfolio for the Fibre Program.

I realize that these descriptions are kind of lackluster without pictures, but I think my camera is stuffed in my bathtub or my closet at the moment. Ah, the joys of renovations.

<3 <3 <3

Snapshots...

2009-08-20T18:56:00.000-07:00

I've been horribly remiss in my blogging.
Here are some shots from my life in the past month...

Dad and family friend Tim on our way out of Kelowna.

Misha, sister extrordinaire, out for dinner on my first night in Nelson.

Ready for our closeups!

Cocobean A.K.A Cohen. Cutest nephew ever.

Lastly, I've forayed into crochet, and actually managed to follow a pattern and make something resembling the picture. This is the Ruffled Crochet Belt from Debbie Stoller's "The Happy Hooker".

Also on the go are Sheldon from Knitty, and a crochet blanket, based on a free pattern I found on the blog http://doyoumindifiknit.typepad.com/do_you_mind_if_i_knit/

I highly recommend that everyone check out her blog. It always manages to brighten my day.

Once again...

2009-07-29T20:14:00.000-07:00

I'm on the move.
My sister, BIL and I are moving to another apartment building in the complex on Friday.
Nelson is pretty awesome, as I knew it would be. I took some pictures of the trip over, but in between baby time and visitors, haven't really had the chance to post them. Soon, though.

I will be blogging more regularly in a few days. (For serious)
Till then, all.

T minus 12 hours....

2009-07-21T19:03:00.000-07:00

I am so glad to be moving tomorrow. If not only because my sister and I have been in suspense and a state of excitment for the last month, and we need to get it over with!

I spent most of the day doing all the piddly little things that moving requires (washing down walls, defrosting the fridge, etc). Now the only thing left to do is vacum, which may be easier said than done, as I'm in a bachelor(ette) suite, and my boxes are covering most of my floor space.

I've got my camera out and loaded with new batteries. All the better to document the trip over tomorrow morning. We'll be squished together in my sister (and Steve's) 2 bedroom apartment until a three bedroom is available. Which may well be on the 1st of August. Which would be lovely, and would also make blogging easier.

I'm off to get the last of my chores done.

Has this ever happened to you?....

2009-07-14T10:58:00.000-07:00

kYou're adapting a pattern (0r in my case, making a new pattern by mish-mashing a few existing ones together) and it's going along smoothly, everything is looking good.
This is, of course, where the knitting gods decide to intervene.

I'm making a top-down raglan lace cardigan, loosely based on "Hey Teach", though I'm reversing the stitches - Stocking stitch on top, lace on the bottom. I figured out my stitch count, cast on, double checked the arithmetic, and was just starting the raglan shaping when something seemed...off. Or, rather, big.

I went back and checked the stitch count on the original "Hey Teach" pattern, and caught something I'd missed. Because I'm working top down, and the pattern was written bottom up, I'd cast on 10 stitches too many. Which, on a slight frame like mine, can add up to alot. Especially when factoring in that this cardi will also be seamless.
Suffice to say, I was forced to rip back and decrease.

Just when you think you're getting somewhere...

10 days and counting...

2009-07-12T08:47:00.000-07:00

Things have been rather slow on the blog front lately, as I've been packing and getting ready to head off to Nelson. Also, as per usual, my low internet connection makes for frusterating posting attempts.

Look forward to many updates and pictures once I get settled.

On the knitting front, I've all but finished the "3-Hour Vintage Sweater". The only problem I have is that, even though I followed the pattern to the letter, it's come out a little short, and I don't know how to make it longer without it being really obvious. I knit the front and back seperately and seamed them together. If I were to knit it again, I would knit in the round.

Does anyone have suggestions? They would be greatly appreciated.

Can't wait, can't WAIT!

2009-06-30T16:43:00.000-07:00

As the title suggests, I am very excited.

It turns out that I'll be able to make my move to Nelson much sooner that I thought. In over a month's time, I will be on my way to my sister and cutie-pie nephew.

I'm also planning on blogging much more often too. Which will be possible, as my internet will actually work.

I'm working on a Snood for my sister. It's knit on 4mm for the brim, and 4.5mm for the body, and I'm using black Sisu yarn. I'm also trying to add beads to the middle of the mesh pattern. It seems to be going well. I'll keep you posted.

(This doesn't really look like much of anything at the moment, but I assure you it IS a hat.)

Of Tams and Teeny Jackets...

2009-06-20T14:05:00.000-07:00

I've been working of quite a few things as of late. And actually getting some of them finished!

I finished Tam #3 from the "Three Tams" pattern on Knitty. I'd blocked it over the weekend, using a dinner plate as instructed. Unfortunately, it came out WAY too big, and doesn't sit on my head very well. So, I'm trying to fix it - I've re-soaked it, and have stuffed it with plastic bags, and tied and pulled the brim tight. Hopefully this will give me back some of the shaping that I lost during blocking last time.

I've also finished Cohen's hoodie, except for the buttons. It is going to look so cute on him. I want to make another one in brown, because the hood totally reminds me of Jawas in Star Wars.

Evelyn posted a podcast a while ago about knitting that scares you (check out her blog on my sidebar - it's awesome!) One of the projects I've just started tackles 2 of the things that make me a lil nervous: Color knitting and designing my own knits. I'm working on a pair of Fair-Isle fingerless gloves. I'll post some pictures when I have something more exciting that 3 rows to show you.

*NOTE: My internet connection is being very troublesome. I wrote this 2 days ago, and tried to upload pictures. No go. I've got the projects posted on Ravelry, so if you are a member, you can see them there. If you aren't a member, sign up!*

Ho hum...

2009-06-04T17:03:00.000-07:00

Knitting has been rather dreary lately. I can't seem to really get a move on. I'm still working on "Hey Teach". Don't ask me why I haven't finished it yet, even though I am SO close to being finished.

All the knitting that I left at my Mom's house is still sitting there, sadly, just waiting for me to come back and pick them up. Luckily I will get a chance, as I'm able to make it home for a visit next week. My sister and nephew will be up to, so I'm really looking forward to it.

I've made a pair of fingerless gloves, the pattern was just off the top of my head, in a 4x1 rib. I may make up a bunch of them, and some hats and that, and try to sell them at markets. Next time, I'd like to try a twisted rib.

Pictures coming soon. Right now, I'm off to have some dinner.

Yarn Babies...

2009-05-11T09:54:00.000-07:00

I have been the worst little blogger ever. Apologies. My practicum is over, and it didn't go so hot, people. Not that this is a huge suprise - I kind of had a feeling that the whole teaching thing may not be for me.

So, that means that I will not be completing the teaching program next year. Instead, I am going to pick up the last course I need for my BA degree, and work for a year here. After that, the plan is to move to Nelson with my sister and her partner, and my adorable new nephew.

Nelson is the home of Selkirk College, which offers lots of art programs. One of those being a Fibre program. Right up my alley.

So, basically, this year definately didn't turn out the way that I'd expected it to, but I'm really excited with the direction things seem to be going in.

Speaking of crafty endeavors, I've got some new projects on (and off) the needles to share.

First up is a project inspired by Casey, at Casey's Elegant Musings. She has the coolest blog - check her out on my sidebar. A little while ago, she posted a pattern for a 1940s style snood that she's working on. I found a pattern that was more similar to a Renaissance style, and have since made 2!

The first was make with Noro Silk Garden Lite, and was my first forage into the world of beaded knitting. I ended up with sore fingers, but it was totally worth it.

This next one was made with Red Heart Super Saver. It was quite a bit thicker, so it doesn't drape quite as nicely, but I'm hoping that the fabric will loosen a little over time. Maybe I could block it....thoughts?

Next on the list is my first original piece! Thanks to Evelyn, who got me going on this idea through her podcast. This is a guitar strap sock that I made using Red Heart Supersaver BRIGHT pink yarn (and more beads). The cable pattern was taken from "Super Stitches Knitting".

I'm also trying to finish some projects that have been sitting in the background for awhile. My knit placemats are done, and "Hey Teach" is getting there too. I just have to finish the sleeves and do the finishing on it.

My internet connection has been rather tenuous lately, which partly accounts for the lack of blog posts. I actually started writing this one on May 11, believe it or not. I'll try to update more often.

Happy knitting!

Nearly there

2009-04-20T18:11:00.000-07:00

I have just started the final week of my practicum. I can't believe that it's almost over already. I am so looking forward to finding a job, working some regular hours, and getting more CRAFTING done!
One of the birthday scarves is nearing completion. Which is a good thing, because the recipient's birthday is on the thirtieth. I'm also pondering the idea of making a guitar strap cozy for...guess what - my guitar strap ^_^.
Other then that, things have been pretty quiet on the knitting front. I've still got "Hey Teach" on the needles, so maybe in the next week or two I will be able to finish it up and wear it in the nice spring weather.
I will blog more (and have more exciting things to say, I'm sure) as school winds down.
Till then, Happy Knitting!

Where has all the time gone?

2009-04-13T15:35:00.001-07:00

I can't believe the long weekend is over already!

I had planned to go for a walk today, but I think that is fast becoming out of the question. I'll probably make it as far as the store for dinner groceries. Oh well.

On Friday, my parents and I went to visit my sister and her new baby (first visit for me, Mom and Dad were there when he was born). He is the sweetest thing I have ever seen in my life. And yes, I realize that everyone says that about new babies, but seriously. Take a look at the last post and you'll get my drift ^_^.

I've got some new pictures, but my scanner takes forever and a day to do it's job, so I think they will have to wait until later.

Back on the knitting front, I've finished my plastic bag holder. I started it on Friday, and finished it yesterday. It was a very quick and fun knit, I must say. So much so that I've started another one for my sister. I'm going to send it to her, along with a baby hat.

<--- This is my bag holder.

And the above 2 pictures are the beginnings of my sister's. I just hope I have enough yarn.

Lots going on....

2009-04-04T10:05:00.000-07:00

This past week has been crazy - what a learning curve!
I've made it through the first week of my practicum. Not without it's bumps, but I'm learning
Last Sunday, I became the proudest new auntie that ever there was
Gaze into the beauteous face of my nephew, Cohen Roy;

The picture on the bottom has a cameo appearance by Lamby Lamb, which I made for him over Christmas. I think I may have to make one for Cohen's daddy, he liked it so much. ^_^

In other news, I'm packing up and moving tomorrow, which I haven't really gotten too excited for just yet. Probably because I'm not quite done packing yet (eek). I love the location (right downtown, close to transit) and the suite I'm in is in a heritage building, which was finished in 1907, I think, Which is pretty cool. I'm a sucker for historical stuff like that.

Not much to report on the knitting front. I'm still working on the two "Fern Lace Scarves", and I'm planning on making a grey baby sweater for Cohen. I'm looking forward to that - some instant knitting gratification, as opposed to how long it takes to make an adult-sized sweater.

I'd best go and get this planning out of the way for next week, and get packing!

Happy knitting

Quickie ^_^

2009-03-25T11:03:00.000-07:00

Hello again.

This is just a super quick note and a bit of an update on the knitting front. I will be starting my 4 week practicum on Monday, and I'm also moving in that time too, so needless to say, the blog posts will continue to be few and far between for the next while here.

I've got some birthday scarves on the way. Which is awesome. I love making gifts for people. They are both the same pattern, "Fern Lace Scarf", pattern available of Ravelry.

The first is for my friend Maiya. She loves scarves, so I thought this was a good pressie.

Hopefully she doesn't decide to randomly check out my blog and find this, But no biggie ^_^

(This is a sample pic)

This next one is for my friend Michelle. Who loves purple, so this yarn is perfect - Malabrigo Lace - SOO nice to work with.

I'm off to finish lesson plans.

See you on the flipside!

Hello out there...

2009-03-05T18:26:00.000-08:00

It's been awhile since my last post, and it will probably stay that way for the next little bit, unfortunately. On the one hand, school is kicking into high gear. I start my 4 week practicum in less than a month (yikes), which requires a lot of preparation.
On the other hand, to be quite honest, I haven't really felt much like blogging (or knitting, if you can believe it). Recent events and the stress of school have kind of taken the wind out of my sails a bit.
Fear not though, loyal readers, I plan on having quite a crafty spring and summer, and will tell you all about it as it unfolds. Just bear with me till then ^_^

Happy knitting.

The Hiatus is Over...

2009-02-21T08:45:00.000-08:00

Man oh man. It certainly has been an interesting couple of weeks.

Well, I've decided to start over/change things in a few areas of my life. Sparing you all the details, it's not much fun, but it's definately for the better.

ANYways (^_^) speaking of changing things, I've also bit the bullet and frogged some projects on Ravelry that have been hanging around in the background for way too long. Spring cleaning, anyone?

This is a good thing, because it means that I can start on one or two new projects, like the lovely "Fishtail Vest." The lace pattern is easy once you get the hang of it, and I love how the cables make an Empress/Empire (I never know what the proper term is) waistline. I am knitting in in the round. I also switched from the recommended 6mm needles after the lace repeat, to 4.5mm. The pattern was written for small-medium, and I'm usually an x-small. I hope that decision works out well and doesn't come back to bite me.

This is the sample picture

This is the first lace repeat. I'm much farther on this now, but it's on circular needles, and is hard to get a picture of. Plus I'm still on the bloody stockinette stitch. Once I get to the straps, I'll take some more pictures.

Yay, an FO!

2009-02-01T14:39:00.000-08:00

I've finished the fingerless gloves that my auntie commissioned back at Christmas time. The pattern is "Fetching" from the Summer 2006 edition of Knitty.

Which is one more thing off of my list, except that my OTHER auntie heard that I was making stuff, and now she wants a Mr. Dangly. Just when I think I'm getting to the bottom...
On the plus side, all this knitting is sure to use up a bunch of my yarn. I acquired a lot over the holidays...

On to the pictures...

(This first picture was taken with the flash on. The picture on the bottom is closer to the actual color.)

How cool are these? ---->

2009-01-28T10:09:00.001-08:00

I may be letting my inner geek out by admitting this, but I LOVE PROGRESS BARS.
Aren't they beautiful? (glows)
"Hush Hush" is getting frogged, so that one isn't entirely accurate. I was using the right needles and weight of yarn, but something went horribly awry. It probably had something to do with the fact that I didn't really check my gauge. I'm much teenier than the patten measurements anyways, so it would have been frogged regardless. That's a bit of a consolation. I'll have to start over, using my own measurements and using the pattern as a base, rather than following it to the letter.
I've also started the cutest stuffed monkey ever, named Mr. Dangly. I'm making him to use as a mascot for my practicum class in April. I'll get the students to write letter to him and he'll (meaning me) write back to them. The kids are in grade 1 and 2, so I think that they'll buy it. How can you not believe in something that cute? ^_^
I've got to run to class, as I'm blogging at school right now.
Happy Knitting!

Can it be?

2009-01-25T18:40:00.000-08:00

Yes, I finally buckled and acquired a digital camera. Which means, much to my delight, I am able to take decent pictures of my knitting! *Yay!*

With that said, I leave you with some updates of what I've been working on lately....

This is a custom-made camera cozy for my new toy. The design was called "Elphie" by Handmade by Jennifer.

Next up are napkin rings and placemats from "Simple Knits for Sophisticated Living"...

And laaaastly, a picture of my progress on "Hey Teach" from Knitty. I've already made one of these for Mom for Christmas (forgot to get some pics of her wearing it, though >_<). I'm hoping to have this one finished by the time my practicum starts. I've finished the back and the two fronts.

The last thing I'm working on, but don't have a picture of, is the "Hush Hush" top from one of Knitty's 2005 issues. Which I think I will work on a bit now while I sip some tea.

Quick Note...

2009-01-14T16:40:00.000-08:00

kDon't have too much to say today, but I wanted to write a quick post to let everyone know that I am still active. Tonight must regrettably be spent reading my "Policy and Administration" text for education, rather than knitting handwarmers and other loverlies.
I've knit up some really neat napkin rings using wire and glass beads, along with 1 1/4 placemats (so far). My webcam was running really slow, so I took it off of my computer for now. When I put it back on (hopefully running much faster) I'll take some pictures and post them. Oh, for an actual digital camera...one day ^_^
I have a query for anyone who is in the know.
I've been into lace knitting as of late. I'm wondering how well it works with a worsted weight yarn, as opposed to a sport or fingering weight. Would it be worthwhile to change needle size to obtain guage for, say a lace neckwarmer, or is it less hassle to use the recommended yarn type? I hope that question makes sense.
Off the the word-mines ^_^

They say it comes in threes....I hope they're right.

2009-01-06T19:18:00.000-08:00

The last few days have pushed me to the end of my patience, let me tell you.
On Sunday, when I got back home after a month of visiting family for the holidays, I went to my computer (which I'd left here) only to find that it wouldn't work, and I was repeatedly getting the blue screen of death. The recovery disk wouldn't work either. So, after weighing the pros and cons (surviving on student loans can be tricky) I decided that it would be better to set aside my old laptop and get a new one.
Which I did, yesterday. I left it in their capable hands to set up for me (which they have done well, as far as I can tell, by the way). As I was abour to get on the bus , I realized that I'd lost my phone somewhere. I spent about an hour frantically looking for it, gave up and called my dad only to find that (thankfully) someone had found it. I was able to get it back today, which is great.
The third and hopefully final frusterating thing that has happened in the last few days is that, after setting up my new computer (including loading programs onto it via the disc drive), said disc drive has unexplainedly decided to completely stop working. It refuses to read anything that I put into it. Which means that I have to take the bloody thing BACK to Future Shop less that 24 hours after I picked it up.
I don't mean to sound whiny, but all I really want to do is throw the thing against a wall at this point.
On the bright side (it's still there, just small) I'm enjoying my education classes, and have been getting some neat things knit up. Pictures forthcoming, as always.
I promise the next post will be less gloomy.

bad little blogger...

2008-12-30T10:59:00.001-08:00

Here I thought with all of my time off, I would be able to catch up on my blogging and picture taking, and be able to showcase all of the Christmas knitting I've been doing. Instead I spent most of my time actually DOING the knitting and hanging out with my sister and her boyfriend, doing crafty-like things.
I will post again in the near future and fill in all the crafty details (complete with pictures, this time)

Forgot to mention....

2008-12-01T18:34:00.001-08:00

While working on Aaron's blanket the other day, I almost had a knitting travesty.
I hadn't worked on it for a bit, and misread where I was in the pattern. Because it's a Birthday present (and, let's face it, because I am the world's biggest perfectionist), I ripped back and started the row over (narrowly missing some dropped stitches). I started the row again, realizing near the end that I had counted for the pattern repeats wrong, so the feather and fan pattern would be off.
So of course, I tinked AGAIN, still not dropping any stitches. I dont know if that was me, or if I was just really lucky.
I'm getting so close to finishing this blanket. I only have about 5 more stripes to go. Whoo-hoo!

Is that a light I see?

2008-11-29T14:35:00.000-08:00

By this time next week I will be all done exams and back home.
So excited.
Also excited to be able to keep up with the blog a little more often, and try to get my knitting done in time for Christmas.
My dad's scarf and Aaron's blanket are the only things I've got on the needles to finish right now. I'm planning to knit a baby blanket for my yet-to-be-born neice or nephew (yay!), but the baby isn't due until March, so I've got some time.

When I get home. I'll borrow my parents' camera and get some updated pictures on here, rather than the old ones I keep recycling.

almost...

2008-11-20T07:16:00.000-08:00

I have exactly 2 weeks until the end of term...which doesn't seem like enough time to get all my schoolwork done. But it always manages to get completed somehow. I am so looking forward to my last exam, when I can sit down and knit afterwards and not feel guilty about it ^_^

I don't have much to say on the knitting front, except that I'd much rather be knitting than doing anything else. I've got a super-sized ball of Red Heart Supersaver in a light brown. I think I am going to start a "Hey Teach" for myself when all of the Christmas knitting is done. It should move along quickly, because I certainly got the practice I needed with my mom's version. Also, I knit hers in the medium size, and I'm an extra-small.

Here is a picture of my mom's version (it was still on the needles when this picture was taken...)

I'm off to have another cup of tea and get ready for the day.

A note before I plunge into acadamia...

2008-11-16T09:11:00.000-08:00

Affectionknit is giving away some really cute tree ornaments. For a chance to be a recipient of one of these lovlies, go to this link....

http://affectioknit.blogspot.com/2008/11/advent-giveway.html

In other news, I've finished "Hey Mom!" (formerly known as "Hey Teach" from Knitty). I steam-blocked the fronts and back, and knit the border and button bands on Friday, and finished, blocked and sewed in the sleeves and seams yesterday. All that's left to do is to sew on the buttons. Something that will have to wait until I get home on Dec. 4th, as I don't have any appropriate thread here.

I've started a simple ribbed scarf for my dad for Christmas. It's made with Bernat Softee Chunky, and is soooo nice and soft (aptly named then, I guess ^_^). I'm looking forward to working on this one after exams are over. It's a mindless knit, and will go along quickly.

Here's a fairly good representation of the actual color... (demin. My webcam leaves much to be desired)

Aaron's blanket is still coming along. Once I get home I'm going to be a knitting MACHINE in order to have that one ready in time.
I'm off to drink some tea (yum) and do an obscene amount of school work (boo).

Query...(help! ^_^)

2008-11-02T09:29:00.000-08:00

It's been awhile since I've managed to sit down and update this thing. I've made some definate progress knitwise, but I'll have to do a photo update later. ^_^
School has been really busy lately. I've got a few papers that need to be finished today, but I have a bit of a query, and was wondering if anyone can help me out.

I'm still on the Christmas-gift train. It's going pretty well. The only thing is, I'm trying to think of something to knit for my dad (who is one of the hardest people to buy for....ever). I don't think he would wear a hat or toque. Maybe a scarf. Anyways, you can see that I'm kind of stuck. I want to knit him something that he will actually use, and isn't a dime a dozen.

If anyone has some ideas they'd like to pass my way, that would be great ^_^
Happy knitting, all.

I would if I could...

2008-10-07T19:39:00.000-07:00

I think I might come in on time on the Christmas front this year. I may be speaking a little too soon, but I'm optimistic.

I'm halfway through the Abby cowl from Knitty. No more progress has been made on the afghan, but there is still plenty of time. Since those are the only two knit pieces I'm making this year (so far, anyway), I figure I can get the little one out of the way first.

Having said that, I am unfortunately not able to do much knitting at the moment. Instead, I have to do this...

This is my Philosophy of Education text. While it is pretty good as far as textbooks go, it is not nearly as interesting as this...

See, I told you it was getting longer. ^_^ I'd best get back to the reading.

ICT Assignment...

2008-10-06T11:26:00.000-07:00

How Might I Use or Not Use Blogging as a Teacher...

If I were to use blogging in my classroom, I would

most likely create a class blog rather than having each student create a blog individually. In regards of safety issues, if each student had their own account, I would want to monitor each post before they went live. While this could be done, I think that it would be very time consuming.

In terms of what I would include in the classroom blog, I would most likely include classroom assignments and important dates and events, so that both students and parents could keep connected at home. Class pictures might also be posted to the classroom blog (i.e: special events, class activities, etc) providing that they kept student identity fairly anonymous.

I would try to include the students in the w

riting process; maybe collaborating on a weekly class post, so that everyone feels included and contributes to the blog project.

"Tis the season" - not yet, NOT YET!

2008-09-29T07:35:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking about updating for the longest time, but somehow I just never actually get around to it. I blame school. ^_^

Anyways, as my subject heading alludes to, I am getting into the thick of the Christmas knitting madness. Which I hope is a good thing, because last year I started late and was cutting it pretty close.

I'm going to go out on a limb and name the recipients, seeing as one of them isn't ever on the internet, and the other is not aware that I have a knitting blog. I figure my chances of being found out are slim to none.

I've already mentioned this first one, but I'll post it again - although it is much longer than it is in the picture. I think I'm getting close to the half way mark.

This is Aaron's blanket.

The next one is a project I started yesterday kind of on a whim. It's for my sister, and I knew she would love it. After I showed her the link of what I was making, she jokingly demanded that I make her one in light green. Little did she know I was already doing just that. ^_^

I'm using sock yarn instead of laceweight, so I've downsized needles a little bit. I hope it works out okay.
This is the Abby cowl from the latest issue of Knitty:

I'm sure Freud will have something to say about this...

2008-09-12T07:20:00.000-07:00

I think my knitting obsession has completely taken over. Last night I had my first knitting dream. It was a really good one, too. I was in this thrift store (don't ask me where) and I found this huge skein of Noro lace wool on sale for rediculously cheap.

It was a very good dream indeed (sigh).

In other knitterly news, I've started again on Evelyn Clark's "Swallowtail Shawl". It's going well enough - as long as I keep the repeats in order, I think I'll be ok. I've heard through the ravelry grapevine that this shawl knits up a little small, but it's too pretty not to be made. Here is a serviceable pic of my progress so far

I've also made quite a bit of progress on "Hey Teach!". I love love LOVE this cardigan. I'm almost ready to start the armhole shaping.

The first of many...

2008-09-08T17:44:00.000-07:00

I've blogged a wee bit before, but I'm hoping with this blog to make it more about what I love to do, and less about random events and happenings in my life.

What I love to do, of course, is knit.

This blog will be a running toll of what I have knit, am knitting, or have tried to knit and thrown across the room in a crumpled, sad little ball out of frusteration.

To christen this new knitting blog, I'll post some pics of the things that I am working on at the moment.

This is my first real attempt at my own "design". It's a pretty common feather and fan afghan that I'm making as a gift. My web cam doesn't really do the colors justice, though.

It doesn't look like much now, but this is actually the beginnings of "Hey Teach!" from the latest issue of Knitty. I'm a brand new ETEP (elementary teacher education) student, so I thought this pattern was a no-brainer. Not to mention BEAUtiful.

That's pretty much all I have on the needles at the moment.