biStitchual©: Hooking & Needling Fun!©

Have you heard the news!?!?

2013-09-06T14:05:00.001-07:00

Siesta Key Tee by Maria Olsson

2013-08-21T23:21:00.002-07:00

As soon as I saw it on Ravelry I fell in love. You know those projects that just jump ahead of the line in your queue and demand to be made before anything else. Sure -- you know the ones that you don't even own the yarn to make and despite having tons of yarn for projects in your queue you just know that this project takes precedence over all others?? Yeah, that kind. Well, this was one of them for me. And I loved the look of the designer's original made in Pickles Merino Tweed which meant I had to order the yarn -- of course! So I did. Shipping was a killer (be forewarned, you can only purchase this yarn from Norway if you can't find someone on Ravelry willing to destash to you), BUT it was worth it. There's a ton of yardage. I bought two balls -- one for each color. My progress can be seen here.

It's an easy enough pattern designed by Maria Olsson. I have some constructive criticism...the pattern is not written in a step-by-step way...meaning, if you are new to knitting garments you have to piece certain steps together because the pattern just assumes you know what to do. Not everyone will just "know" what to do. I get a bit picky when it's a paid pattern. But, don't worry -- it's nothing that can't be overcome and the designer is super nice and willing to help if you need to reach out. They are just minor things.

The effect of the lace work is really pretty and quite easy. And then it's just on to stockinette in the round. I will probably crochet around the neckline and the capped sleeves in the contrasting color when I'm done, but haven't decided yet.

In the meantime, life has thrown us some curveballs (don't you just LOVE life and all her eccentricities!?!?). We were all set to move into our lovely little dream house (literally, all our belongings were boxed up and awaiting placement into a moving truck for their new home) when suddenly it all fell to pieces. I won't bore you with the details, but we are still floating in the waters of the Pacific for now. After all THAT drama came some really really BIG HUGE MASSIVE news!!!!! I can't share it yet which really really stinks. But watch this space!

While you patiently await this news, I hope all your yarny stitching dreams come true with lots of pretty cupcakes and sprinkles!!

Lena
xoxo

Siesta Key Tee Diamonds

Stitching Skills

2013-06-01T23:38:00.001-07:00

I've become better lately at stitching with very low light...I can knit/crochet with the light from my laptop when the husband is sleeping. I can also stitch without looking at my project constantly. Well, I can do this if it's a basic stitch.

I've also discovered I can stitch through the maddening blur of tears.

Sometimes...life...just...

gets to you.

Fishnet Anklets

2013-05-15T23:36:00.000-07:00

I decided I wanted to knit socks for myself. Now, I've knit socks before...traditional ones. And, I never use them. Why? Because, well, I hate actually wearing socks and when I do wear them I opt for ankle-length rather than longer ones. So, it struck me -- why not KNIT MYSELF ANKLE SOCKS!?!? Duh. So simple. I searched for a pattern and there are lots of cute ones. Ultimately I settled on this one written by Whit's Knits and published on The Purl Bee's blog. I figured that these would be a good "stash busting" project and I have some Koigu KPPPM left from my Charlotte's Web shawl aka Dream Weaver.

I have yet to complete a pair for myself, this is my first attempt:

The reason I've yet to complete a pair for myself? I don't have enough of the main color for the second sock. I decided I'm going to frog the second sock and knit it with the toe color of the first sock and make the toe out of the blue for a mismatched matching pair (if you get me).

This is a pair that I knit in US shoe size 6 for my Aunt who is incredibly supportive and wildly creative. I felt the rainbow colors would suit her.

I really like the pattern. It's well-written and easy to follow. It's a really simple sock to knit. I did make some changes because I felt that the pattern, as written, does not yield TRUE ankle-length socks (you can judge for yourself just based on the pattern photos).

Here are my changes:

I did the ribbing as called for but shortened the amount of rounds for the “leg”.
For the leg: I knit a total of 11 rounds which includes the first round.
For the “foot” I repeated 29 times for a total of 30 including the first round.
I used US size 1 and 3 needles.

I wear a US size 8/8.5 shoe and these socks fit me perfectly with these mods. I plan to finish MY original first pair as soon as I'm caught up with commissioned knitting and I'd love to make many more. A pair would be easily doable from CO to BO in a weekend and with my changes, I used less than 98 yards for the rainbow pair...not bad for a pair of socks.

Sunshine in Every Stitch: May Flower Crochet Pattern

2013-05-09T23:42:00.001-07:00

If you are ever looking for a super cute flower to crochet, check out my biStitchual friend's pattern! I LOVE it!!

Sunshine in Every Stitch: May Flower Crochet Pattern: Sunny days are here again! How about a free flower pattern to celebrate? I recently designed a crocheted baby hat featuring this giant flo...

Lacy Summer Socks & Mr. Chips

2013-05-02T15:43:00.000-07:00

I've been glued to the outstanding closing argument of Juan Martinez in the Jodi Arias murder trial and managed to finish my socks!! So, YAAAAAY to finishing a project!

Now the socks are finished and the closing arguments are continuing. I guess that means I have to get back to work on my Still Light Tunic designed by Veera Välimäki knit in DROPS Alpaca. It's just sooooooo much stockinette I almost wanna scream. But I knew that before I went into this, didn't I!?

Anyway, you can check out my Ravelry project page for more photos of the socks, if you'd like. This pattern is fabulous and I love it. I made zero changes to it...the size fits me perfectly. I read the project notes of other knitters who had to do an extra full repeat of the lace. I wear a US size 8/8.5 and the socks are super comfy and great for summer -- my feet don't overheat!!! (And it's super hot here in the bay area today, so take THAT Mr. Sunshine!)

Oh, hi there, Mr. Chips!

Lacy Summer Socks Progress Report

2013-04-30T23:45:00.002-07:00

Ok...So, this is how it is on my site: I will be honest and upfront about product reviews, LYS interactions, pros/cons of patterns, and just about anything else stitching-related. Of course, these are my opinions based upon my experiences.

The pattern, Lacy Summer Socks, written by, Stefanie Goodwin-Ritter, TOTALLY ROCKS!!!! I heart this pattern so much...clearly written, concise, and easy to remember. I can see myself knitting several pair in all sorts of yarns. This pattern works up SUPER quickly which registers as instant gratification -- perfect for when you are working on something much larger and need a go-to project for a break. If you haven't done so already, click the link to the pattern and check it out -- it's FREEEEEE!

I started the first sock yesterday, was gone almost all day today (did not stitch while I was out...left my project bag behind on accident!) and tonight I'm already almost done with the first one (just doing the toe shaping now)!!

Lacy Summer Sock from the top

Lacy Summer Sock from the side

Post OVERLOAD! Mini Etsy Haul!

2013-04-29T16:49:00.001-07:00

Who doesn't love a good find!? I know I don't! Wait...I do. Yes, I DO love a good find!

So, on to the goods... Everything I am featuring was found on Etsy.

I found this fabulous 100% Pure Reeled Mulberry Worsted Dupion Silk. I plan on making sleep masks with it. I think the colors are really rich and decadent.

I found this gorgeous skein of 52% Mulberry Silk and 48% Merino in a stunning Merlot colorway. It is SOOOO next-to-skin soft.

And...check out this destash! Two stunning skeins of Handmaiden Fine Yarn Lady Godiva in color Beach House! I don't even know what I'll make with them, but they had to be adopted by me. You'll understand, I'm sure.

And the same person who was destashing the Handmaiden, makes STUNNING stitch markers... This is the third set I've purchased from her:

Lady Boudoir Stitch Markers...GORGEOUSNESS!!!

Interested in checking out the selection of stitch markers? Click here.

Do you have favorite go-to sellers on Etsy? If so, share links to their shops so we can all have a look-see!

Happy stitching,

Lena

xoxo

Good gosh, I haven't posted anything in ages!

2013-04-29T16:08:00.000-07:00

I've been a bad bad blogger. It's been ages since I've been around my own site. Yesterday I blogged about my experience with knitting a Charlotte's Web shawl and I redesigned the site! WOOHOO!!!!! Ok...there really wasn't much involved with that second task...I just pointed and clicked and voila!

I have been knitting a lot lately. And since I have a couple of large projects in the works right now, I decided to CO for something smaller (instant gratification, you know what I'm talkin' about!).

So...I CO for "Lacy Summer Socks" designed by Stefanie Goodwin-Ritter.

I have random KOIGU KPPPM leftover from my Charlotte's Web shawl and some odd bit of Happy Feet just laying around that I am going to use for my ankle socks! I've knit traditional socks before (last pair was more than a year ago) and I never use them because I really only ever wear ankle socks. So I decided to start knitting myself a collection of anklets! This'll be the first pair.

Here's what I'm working with on size US1 DPNs:

My Dream Weaver Shawl aka Charlotte's Web

2013-04-28T18:53:00.000-07:00

So back in February I had to take an impromptu car trip down to southern California for somewhat of a family emergency. I decided to CO for this "legendary" shawl pattern designed by Maie Landra. I started knitting knitting knitting and everything was going fine until...I got to the end of the chart. Then all stitching hell broke out. What next? What do I doooooo? I reread the pattern's written instructions. No clear direction. Ugh. Rrrrrrrrrip. Start over. Surely I must have done something wrong!

Rinse. Repeat. I have rarely ever had to restart a project. This one was restarted several times. Imagine my sheer frustration! So annoying. This is the first pattern that I've rated with only one star on Ravelry. It's as if the designer decided to give us almost all the pieces of the puzzle but decided to leave out a few key pieces. After ripping it out and restarting around the 4th time, I realized why this pattern is "legendary among knitters" -- it's poorly written AND it's a pattern one must pay for. It's published in a hard cover book for Koigu. One would think that someone at some point before going to press would have said, "Hey, let's just make sure this pattern doesn't have any holes and is user-friendly."

Alas, I digress. I did a lot of sleuthing online -- seeking out others' notes, hints, secrets to this pattern. FINALLY!!!! A light went off and I connected all the invisible dots and then...and only then...it was SMOOTH SAILING!!!!!!

Don’t misunderstand me, if you are fortunate to not have any issues at all with this pattern (this may only be a problem for some of us for some reason) then I can see why you may absolutely love it, and if you are one of the few who stumble with this pattern -- DON’T give up!! It is totally worth the trouble, it IS a gorgeous pattern by Maie Landra and WORTH seeing through to the end!

Here are my hints, this is assuming you have attained the pattern:

First, go to this link and download the chart which was written by Uli Ross. It will help you to keep track of not only your color changes and sequences, but also how many stitches you should have at the end of each row.
Next, pick out your colors. The pattern is designed for five skeins of Koigu KPPPM. I recommend purchasing yours from the fabulous Chelsea Yarns. Why not do a shawl that is inspired by the colors of the sky at dawn or dusk? Or something that reminds you of a valley full of blooming flowers? Or a shawl inspired by the shades of the ocean? If you want to make yours larger, be prepared to purchase more skeins. Mine used 12 different colorways.
Gather all your stitch markers. You will need a TON of them. You will place a stitch marker after your first TWO stitches which will always be knit -- you will ALWAYS have these same two stitches at the beginning of your row, you will also have two knit stitches at the end of EVERY row (purled on the wrong side, ALL stitches on ALL wrong sides are purled). You will also place a marker on either side of the center stitch as a reminder to yourself.
Here's my biggest hint: Each lace pattern repeat consists of 8 sts plus 1 and 8 rows. After your first two stitches you will be building up to EIGHT knit stitches by doing a YO right after the first stitch marker and right before the last stitch marker (the stitch marker marking the last 2 knit stitches) of the row. In the section on either side of the center stitch, you will be building up to NINE knit stitches by doing a YO right before the marker before the center stitch and a YO right after the next marker for the center stitch (YO, sl m, k, sl m, YO). Once you have the EIGHT knit stitches at the beginning and end of the row and the NINE knit stitches on either side of the center stitch, you are ready to begin a new lace pattern repeat...so, you will k 2 sts, sl m, yo, place new stitch marker, begin row 1 of lace pattern repeat all the way through to the NINE stitches before center stitch. Once you get to the NINE stitches before the center stitch you will work the lace pattern repeat, place marker, k 1, yo, sl m, k center st, sl m, yo, k 1, sl m, work the lace pattern repeat through the EIGHT knit stitches and continue on to the end of the row at the last EIGHT knit stitches work the lace pattern repeat, sl m, yo, place new marker, k last 2 sts.
For my border...I did 12 rows of crochet to mimic my color changes in the body of the shawl. I also added the blue color in the fringe (not found in the body) as a different focal point. Instead of mixing all the colors for the fringe, I cut my remaining yarn from the body of the shawl in the specified lengths and then arranged them along the border to further mimic the color changes yet separating them with the blue. I've seen the fringe in a mixed arrangement and think the results are gorgeous as well. I just wanted to do something different.
I really REALLY hope my hints serve to help you out! If you require additional help, let me know and I'll be glad to help any way that I can.

Good luck to all the knitters who attempt this shawl!! Once you get the hang of it, it really IS a fun project which yields gorgeous results! I highly recommend using Koigu KPPPM because the color saturation is always phenomenal with their yarns. My shawl is not blocked yet because I changed the border -- instead of doing just two crocheted rows, I did 12 (mimicking the color changes in my shawl), then I added the tassels. The weight of the border helps to bring out the lace pattern. However, I do intend on blocking it to really let it shine. One day.

Here's one photo of my shawl: To see several other photos, please see my project page on Ravelry which can be found by clicking here.

My Dream Weaver aka Charlotte's Web

Shibui MIX No. 1

2012-10-31T16:51:00.000-07:00

I totally fell in love with this pattern when I first saw it on Ravelry. It was project-love-at-first-sight, for sure! So I ordered the goods from Chelsea Yarns (of course) and CO. Here's my progress so far:

The pattern is worked with Shibui Heichi and Silk Cloud held together. I chose Heichi in the color, "Brownstone", and Silk Cloud in "Camel". The Heichi is 100% silk and could be considered a bit "rough", however, when paired with the Silk Cloud (mohair and silk) the fabric created is quite lovely.

This sweater is worked from the top down in the round and the sleeves are picked up after completing the body. So there is room for modifying the pattern to your tastes should you prefer shorter sleeves or a shorter body, just as an example. The pattern is designed by Kristin Ford and it is excellently written. I have not run into anything confusing at all. Worked on US9 circs, this is a rather quick knit.

I am so excited to complete my sweater and wear it!

'Tis the season for cowls, wraps, and shrugs!

2012-10-26T17:44:00.003-07:00

Recently I knit this cowl using Lustrous Extra Fine Merino DK by Sublime Yarns in Charcoal Black, Ecru, Lavender, and Silver. There's something special about the sheen to this yarn that almost seems like the color will rub off on your hands and fingers...like when you're a child drawing with crayons. You will notice my stitches are not evenly consistent and that is because I used this project to experiment with Continental knitting vs. English knitting. This is a really easy project and the results are nice, if I do say so myself! Check out my Ravelry project page to see more photos.

This past week I had one of the worst weeks in my life and as a result I spent several days on bed rest. Of course I was bored out of my mind! So I had to have a project to work on (and none of my current WIPs would suffice, apparently) so I CO for a Windward designed by Heidi Kirrmaier. I was inspired by a gorgeous photo I had seen on Facebook of someone else's Windward and I did some investigating to discover what yarn was used. I set out to source the yarn and chose to do mine in the same. I used Noro Silk Garden Lite in Colorway 2076 Lot A. I used 4.25 balls on US4 ciculars. About halfway through the project I was unsure about my choice of yarn...it reminded me a little too much of a Mexican poncho, but as I was finishing it up it grew on me once again. I am now quite pleased with the finished results! You can see additional photos on my Ravelry project page.

I also spent some time designing a simple shrug using Be Sweet's Magic Ball in Shifting Sands and Madelinetosh Chunky in Calligraphy. I haven't written the pattern up yet or photographed it so that will have to come with a later post.

My next endeavors are sweaters! I have at least 4 sweaters and a poncho on my list for this season...not to mention commissioned and gifted knitting that needs to be done. What are you working on this season?

Fun Finds & What I've been up to!

2012-10-04T17:54:00.002-07:00

My husband travels out of town for work frequently and occasionally my parents and I will get together for dinner midweek. A couple of nights ago we went to Alameda to have dinner together. My mother and I strolled into one of the antiques shops that line Alameda's main street. A few vintage finds came home with me!

Here's what I chose to adopt:

I have a few of these plastic circulars (some older than others) and they are such a delight to knit with. I also have some made (in America! Imagine that!?) from steel.

I love these vintage crochet hooks, especially the pink one!

This stitch holder is plastic and extremely flexible! I have no idea how old it is, but I like it!

I think this is for a small set of DPNs, but I'm not exactly sure. It seemed useful to me so I brought it home.

I've been designing a shrug using Be Sweet's Magic Ball and Madelinetosh Chunky. It's coming along nicely and is super ridiculously easy! I can't wait to share it with you all. The pattern will be forthcoming.

I've also been working on a commissioned scarf and I've been asked to make a pair of felted duck feet slippers!! I can't wait to get started on those!

Our biStitchual group on Ravelry will be starting a Fall K/CAL for mitts/gloves -- we'd love to have you! Won't you join us?

Super Simple Slouchy Beanie

2012-09-24T23:36:00.000-07:00

Here's a new pattern for your head to enjoy!!

Super Simple Slouchy Beanie©

www.bistitchual.com

Difficulty:
Suitable for a beginning knitter who might want to learn to knit in the round. Skills necessary: Join in the round, knit, purl, increase via kfb, decrease via k2tog

Materials:
Approximately 160 yards of DK weight yarn. Sample knit using Louisa Harding’s Jasmine in color number 13. The amount you use may be different depending on how big you desire your beanie to be. After you knit the ribbed band and begin the body of the beanie you will be able to try it on to determine how it fits.

Needles & Notions:
US 5 or size needed to obtain gauge. You will need a 16” circular and DPNs.
A darning needle and a stitch marker.

Gauge:
24 sts 32 rows / 4 inches

Stitch Abbreviations:
K: Knit
P: Purl
K2tog: Knit 2 together
KFB: Knit front and back
Sts: stitches

Ready to begin!? Let’s do this thing!
➢ Using your 16” circular, CO 80 sts.
➢ Place a marker to indicate the beginning of the round and join to knit in the round. Be careful not to twist your stitches!
➢ *K1, P1* repeat between * and * until your beanie’s ribbing is approximately 2.25” or you’ve knit 20 rounds. (Your gauge may be different. If you are satisfied with the width of your beanie’s ribbing then it’s ok to stop!)

Here’s where we increase:
➢ *(kfb) twice, k2* repeat between * and * until end of round. You should have 120 sts.

And now the somewhat boring part…work in stockinette st until your beanie measures 9.5” from your CO edge (try your beanie on as you knit to see if you are satisfied with the size of it and stop…move on to the decrease section which consists of 11 rounds.)

Let’s decrease!
Round 1: *(k2tog) twice, k4* repeat between * and * until end of round.
Round 2-3: Knit
Round 4: *(k2tog) twice, k2* repeat between * and * until end of round.
Round 5: Knit
Round 6: Switch to DPNs. *k2tog* repeat between * and * until end of round.
Round 7: knit
Round 8: *k2tog* repeat between * and * until end of round.
Round 9: k
Round 10: *k2tog* repeat between * and * until end of round.
Round 11: *k2tog* repeat between * and * until end of round. 4 sts remain.

Let’s finish this beanie!
Snip your yarn leaving a tail a few inches long and thread a darning needle with it. Thread the needle through the 4 remaining stitches. Cinch rather tightly and bring the needle through the middle. Weave the tail through a few stitches and snip off any extra. Wear it and enjoy it!

© by Alena Woods, 2012. Please feel free to make this project for personal or gifted use. No duplication of this pattern or images is permitted without the express written authorization of the author. Items made from this pattern are not to be sold commercially. Thank you and I hope you enjoy your project results!

Here's some great color choices!

White Rabbit Wrist-ees for a sweet girl!

2012-09-19T01:04:00.000-07:00

Recently I was commissioned to knit a pair of White Rabbit Wrist-ees designed by Tiny Owl Knits. When I knew the recipient was to be a sweet seven year old little girl, I knew I HAD to make them! I asked what her favorite colors were and waited until I had that insanely huge order of 21 balls of Rowan Kidsilk Haze delivered. I made some modifications (totally guessing!) to the pattern so they would fit a little girl.

My modifications were:

For size XXS (to fit a little girl 7yo):

CO 36sts

K1, P1 for 2 rows

Cont in pattern inst.

Work inc on WS of 3rd repeat of pink section

Work beading: orange, clear, pink, clear.

3 rows of K1, P1 before BO

These were made for the granddaughter of our wonderful harbor master who is such a delight and we are really blessed to know her. Her granddaughter's favorite colors are pink and orange and thanks to her fabulous grandmother (who is talented at making gorgeous beaded jewelry) I was able to add in sparkling Swarovski beads in pink and orange. The beads are hard to pick up on in the photographs but they truly add a special little "sparkly touch" to these luxurious kidsilk wristees!

And here is the beautiful girl proudly wearing her "White Rabbit Wrist-ees"!

They fit "like a glove"! YAY!

FREE pattern for the Sassy FUNky "Lip" Ring!

2012-09-10T16:23:00.005-07:00

Sassy Funky “Lip” Ring

Difficulty:
Super easy!
Materials:
A small amount of wool such as Alice Starmore Scottsih Campion or any 2-ply wool.

Notions:
A set of US 5 (3.75mm) DPNs and a tapestry needle
Gauge:
Not important for this project.
Stitch Abbreviations:
Inc 1: Knit front and back
K: Knit
PM: Place Marker

Pattern:
~ Cast on 30 stitches.

~ Divide stitches between 2 needles to knit in the round.
This is fairly easy to do:

~ Hold the needle with the cast on stitches in your left hand, take two DPNs into our right hand and hold parallel to the work in your left hand.

~ Slip one stitch PW onto the front needle in your right hand (the needle closest to you), slip the next stitch PW onto the second needle in your right hand (the one furthest from you).

~ Repeat these two steps until all stitches are divided evenly : 15 on each. You are ready to knit!

Round 1: Knit first st, PM, continue knitting one round. Round 2: Knit

Round 3: Inc 1, k until 2 stitches left. Inc 1, k1.

Round 4: Knit

Repeat rounds 3 & 4 until 23 stitches are on each needle Round 5: Knit

~ Finishing:

1. Cut a long tail and carefully remove each st from the needles onto the tail with a yarn needle. Don’t pull tight as you remove the stitches and thread the needle through! Unless you want pursed lips...that’s up to you! J

2. Once all the stitches are removed, fold the lips with the purl side facing out and finesse the shape a bit to your liking. (The fabric will naturally fold back on itself with very little coaxing.) Pinch the corners/ends of the lips a bit and tack down with 2 to 3 stitches to help form the shape.

If you wish to felt your lip ring, please do the following. If not, skip this section and head to Step 3! J

Felting the Lips:

~ If you used wool or some other animal fiber that will felt you can finish your lips in the following way:

~ Fill a small bowl with hot water and just a bit of soap. (I used a lavender scented hand soap – mmmmm, smells good!)

~ Put the lips into the bowl and agitate, squeeze the water out, rinse, squeeze the water out. Repeat these steps until you are satisfied with the look of your fabric.

~ Shape the lips to your liking and leave to dry overnight. If you chose to felt your lips you will not need to do step 3 and can head to step 4. Yaaay, almost done! J

3. If you do not want to felt your lips, simply:

~ Thread your tapestry needle with a bit of wool and place a stitch in the center of the top lip to further form the shape of the lips.

4. Finally, on the backside (where the seam is with the knit side of the stitches) attach a bit of yarn (just enough to fit around your ring finger) and

tie a knot. Snip all the loose ends.

Attach the “ring” as pictured above and below.

Yaaay! Your ring is done! Now be the fashionista you are!

© by Alena Woods, 2012. Please feel free to make this project for personal or gifted use. No duplication of this pattern or images is permitted without the express written authorization of the author. Items made from this pattern are not to be sold commercially.

Thank you and I hope you enjoy your project results!

In L.O.V.E. with Chelsea Yarns!

2012-08-27T16:51:00.000-07:00

Say hello to my third purchase from none other than Chelsea Yarns! I am so past being "in like" with Chelsea Yarns that I am now fully "in love" with Chelsea Yarns! Consistently my purchases have been packaged with care and attention and the customer service is beyond wonderful! I want to say an extra special THANK YOU to Christina, the owner of Chelsea Yarns, for my super cute surprises that she sent a couple of weeks ago!!

Christina -- How did you know that I am a TOTAL bag freak!?! I adore this canvas tote that is generously roomy and perfect for a large project or day bag for a day of shopping. It's SO cute! I will use it with pride! THANK YOU!

This Baggu bag is PERFECT for a take-along project such as the Beekeepers Quilt or any other on-the-go project! LOVE it! Oh my...and the Lavishea Lotion Bar -- D.I.V.I.N.E.! The scent is soothing and the lotion bar is all natural. This has gone into my current project bag. I suffer from extremely dry skin and sometimes I need to soften my hands a bit before I start stitching -- this is the perfect size to slip into your purse or travel bag. Give it a try -- you'll love it!

So...on to the goodies I purchased this time around.

I bought two skeins of Be Sweet's Magic Ball in Shifting Sands. Chelsea has some gorgeous colors...it was hard to pick!

Check out these pretty projects, the first calls for just one skein and the second calls for two. I'm not sure what I'm going to make, but I'm leaning towards the shrug only because I have a few tops I could wear it with that are sleeveless. The cowl is gorgeous though -- I love how it elegantly allows each unique part of the Magic Ball to shine.

And the other goodies I purchased: a pattern wallet designed by Slip Stitch Studios with coordinating pattern magnets. It's hard to tell from this photo, but the bag is REALLY large and the pattern wallet easily accommodates an 8.5x11" piece of paper. This is going to make knitting from charts so much easier!! Chelsea Yarns has some beautiful choices for the wallets and magnets...again, it was hard to choose! (I have a feeling I will start a small collection of these for when I have these manic moments of having more than one WIP at a time!)

Thank you, again, Chelsea Yarns for making my experience a great one! I wish you many years of success as a purveyor of fine yarns and supplies.

What I've been working on lately...

2012-08-21T15:33:00.000-07:00

Hi all!

I've fallen in love with the Cladonia shawl pattern and recently made one in navy and pennyroyal from Knit Picks palette yarn. I made this one with a smaller needle size because I wanted a smaller shawl...more like a shawlette. I think it turned out beautifully!

I gave the shawlette a rush blocking job with my Knitters Block kit from Coco Knits using a wet pressing cloth and a steaming iron. I couldn't leave it out overnight to dry so I used my hair dryer. I've used this method before and it works well! I have a shawl brooch on order from the fabulous Michelle. You can see her creations here.

I finished my Shunkahah Wanagi and I need to block it. I love it though but I know I'll love it more once it's been blocked.

I'm also working on another Cladonia using Madeline Tosh Merino Light in Calligraphy and Noro Silk Garden Sock in color number 279.

I love to see the new colors coming from the skein of Noro...makes the knitting interesting. I really like the Cladonia but the body can be boring since it's so repetitive. I'm thinking of adding beads to the picot bind off at the edge but I'm undecided. For this one I am using US size 7 needles and will be making it full size.

I've also been doing some work on the christening blanket for my husband's daughter who is expecting her first baby in Ireland in December. I need to get myself into gear for that one...I have a lot of work to do on it!

I also made a Lady Jessica designed by Veronica O'Neil using some of the Cascade Yarns Rustic that I received in my Craftsy Mystery Box a few weeks ago. This was a really quick knit, something you could easily finish in two evenings.

I've been a bit of a busy bee lately. But that's just the way I like it!

p.s. I have 21 balls of Rowan Kidsilk on the way...I think I've been a knotty girl!

First ONLINE purchase from ImagiKnit in San Francisco

2012-08-06T14:39:00.000-07:00

I have visited this LYS, ImagiKnit in "the city" (locals refer to San Francisco in this way) several times. I am impressed with the store space and products. However, each time I've visited the store, I've left with a bit of a sour taste in my mouth. The staff seems rather "stuffy"...perhaps they are different with their regulars. But, when I first started going to the store it was a very special treat for me as our financial world was quite different at the time. I'd maybe buy one or two skeins of something very special and I was always made to feel like my purchase was, in some way, insignificant. On the occasion I was asked if I wanted a printed receipt and I replied that I did want one, it seemed like I was personally responsible for deforestation and for ruining the clerk's day. Perhaps each time I went there and had a not-so-fun-or-spectacular experience it was just a strange coincidence. This is not the only LYS I've frequented in the city, but it is the only LYS I've visited in the city where I've had such experiences.

So, why did I purchase from them online? In all honesty, it was only because they had what I needed which was one skein of Madeline Tosh Merino Light in Silver Fox.

Packaging is nothing to write home about, but it is just fine, especially from a recycling point-of-view. As you know from an earlier post, I reuse the plastic zippered storage bags that linen comes in to store my yarn; so, receiving yarn packaged like this is ok as it will get slipped, as is, into one of those bags.

And here is my skein of Silver Fox destined to become part of a Cladonia.

Shipping?

To be honest, I personally think it was a tad bit high. But, it was cheaper than the toll I'd have to pay to cross into the city and the gas I'd spend which are the only reasons I chose not to do a free local pickup. I think the shipping time could have been a bit faster. It wasn't slow as molasses and it wasn't super fast either considering it only traveled at most about 15 miles. Of course, once a package is in the hands of the USPS the seller cannot be held responsible, but they can be held responsible if they are not prompt with how quickly they package orders.

Packaging?

Acceptable.

Pricing?

Not highly competitive.

Thrill factor 0-10?

7.5

There are no frills with ImagiKnit, neither in-person or online. That's ok...you get what you pay for, right?

I give them a 7.5. Maybe I'm feeling generous, however, the facts are the facts...they had what I needed, the price was slightly higher than average at $19.20/skein (their price on this brand is not the highest out there, however), very little money goes into their packaging costs (as you can see), and I feel the shipping fee was a bit high at $4.

I'd like to give this shop another try in-person, but my last experience was so..."eh" that I don't know if I will or should. Forgive me if you're reading this and you're an ImagiKnit in San Francisco regular and you absolutely love the place, these are opinions based on my personal experience.

Major Yarn Haul from Chelsea Yarns!

2012-08-06T13:54:00.001-07:00

OK, mom and I went a little crazy.

Just a little crazy with my newest most favorite online retailer of fine yarns,

Chelsea Yarns.

Once again, Christina, the owner of Chelsea Yarns, packaged my order to perfection and got it out to me in no time at all.

This is, by far, the best packaging I've experienced from any online shop. The skeins are wrapped in tissue and then placed into clear plastic bags before being boxed for shipping. I appreciate the care that Christina puts into her customers' orders. When stitchers purchase fine yarns we need to know that they will arrive in perfect condition.

So, what did we get?

Isager Alpaca 2 50% Alpaca 50% Wool 50g 250m: 1 skein in 201 which is a natural color and 1 skein in 016 which is a soft yellowish olive color.
Acadia by The Fibre Company 50% Merino Wool, 20% Baby Alpaca, 20% Silk 50g 145yds: 1 skein in 018 Maple and 1 skein in 220 Summersweet.
KOIGU KPPPM 100% Merino Wool 50g 175yds: 1 skein each of: P354275, P909L164, P64113, P817X41, P317S270, P90580, P350L33, P80672, P63153, P36119.

What are we going to do with all this yarn? We are each working on our own Beekeeper's Quilt designed by Stephanie Dosen. Of course, even all this yarn will not be nearly enough, but it's a fun start!

How do we feel about Chelsea Yarns?

We LOVE them!

Price point?

Good to Average with free shipping on all orders of $50 or more. Fantastic!

Packaging?

Perfect! No need to repackage for storage -- just inventory your purchase and tuck the skeins into a plastic bin. The packaging used to ship your order is great for storage.

Shipping?

Lightning quick!

Thrill factor 0 - 10?

10.

Keep up the great service, Chelsea Yarns!

Doodlebug Yarns First Purchase

2012-08-04T22:47:00.000-07:00

I made a purchase with Doodlebug Yarns for the first time recently. I found their website while doing a search for the yarn to make the Inlay Beret designed by Heidi Todd Kozar and featured in Knitscene's Fall/September 2012 issue.

© Fall12 Knitscene Inlay Beret designed by Heidi Todd Kozar

This beret features chic celtic knot work which is near and dear to my heart as my husband and I have matching celtic wedding bands (he is from Ireland). I fell in love with this design immediately and thought I'd like to knit this. I love the colors used as well.

I set myself to searching for the yarns the pattern calls for:

The Fibre Company Canopy Fingering (50% baby alpaca, 30% merino, 20% bamboo; 200 yd/50g) in River Dolphin (gray heather), Yerba Mate (moss green), Cat's Claw (light yellow). My dilemma was finding a company that had all three colors available. I found sites that had one or two but not all three. I finally stumbled onto Doodlebug Yarns' site and they answered my call!

The box was delivered yesterday and when I picked it up I heard something hard clunking around inside and I said to my husband, "Hmm...that's strange...sounds like something hard is inside, but there shouldn't be..."

The skeins were wrapped in tissue which I appreciated. And that little "hard thing" that I heard rattling around inside? A Tootsie Roll sucker which little Miss Doo Little discovered immediately and claimed as her own! Such a cute touch!

Here are all 3 skeins; from left to right: Yerba Mate (moss green), River Dolphin (gray heather), and Cat's Claw (light yellow).

(This skein photographed a much deeper/richer shade of yellow than it actually is. It is a very soft yellow in reality.)

My purchase with Doodlebug Yarns was a smooth and easy transaction. The pricing was average, however they had a sale going on when I ordered and may still have the sale. I used the coupon code "STEADY" and received a decent discount. So, Doodlebug not only had ALL three colors that I needed but they also offered a DISCOUNT! SOLD!

Shipping was lightning fast -- I ordered on Thursday 07/31 and it was delivered yesterday (08/03).

My only criticism of Doodlebug Yarns is concerning their website and it may just be me not spending enough time navigating. However, I noticed that next to some of the brands listed on the lefthand side of their main page it will say "Select items on SALE!" I perused some of the different brands to see what was on sale and did not readily see what exactly was on sale. I would like to see this become more user-friendly. Other than that, I love that they accept credit card payments and PayPal -- it'd be nice to see other sites accept PayPal.

How pleased was I with this purchase?
0 - 10

10.

Will I purchase from Doodlebug Yarns again?

Definitely.

Two thumbs up to you, Doodlebug Yarns, keep up the great work!

Craftsy $100 Mystery Box for $40

2012-08-04T13:51:00.000-07:00

Ok...So yesterday I received my Craftsy $100 Mystery Box purchased for $40 + shipping. You know how I love surprises? Well, this was certainly a surprise...an "eh, it's ok...I guess..." kind of surprise.

Here's how the contents were packaged:

As you can see, the packaging is very basic. The skeins were not even placed into any sort of protective plastic bags which I wasn't too thrilled about. I'm all for conservation, however, I like to know that my purchases are packaged properly. Anyway, I digress.

The needles are Lantern Moon and they are gorgeous. BUT, they are 14" long. I generally avoid at ALL COSTS using needles that are so long. They are clumsy and awkward to use and make my arms fatigue quickly. I'd much rather use circs. I like them though so they are being added to my "collection"...that part of my collection that is destined to be dusted once a week and will likely never have a strand of yarn grace them with its presence.

I received 2 skeins of Cascade Yarns Rustic. At first I was like "What is this? And what the heck am I going to make with it??" After looking at dozens and dozens of projects on Ravelry that used this yarn, I have queued 2 possible choices and am now happy I have them. They have linen mixed in and it will be my first time working with a yarn containing linen.

These two skeins of Cascade Yarns Kaleidoscope D.K. I am NOT happy with. They are cheap acrylic skeins and I would never have picked them out myself (at their retail price point). They will make good baby objects, I guess. But, I could do without these. Anyone want them? Send me a message and let me know! They may not be my choice but they might be someone else's!

I like this skein of Lorna's Laces Solemate in Aqua with generous yardage at 425. I'm not quite sure what I'll make with it, but it's a pretty color for Spring so who knows...

This skein of Lorna's Laces Shepherd Worsted is nice to have as well. However, it's a color I wouldn't have chosen for myself. It's navy, in case the color isn't showing up just right on your monitor. It's "ok"...but, I'm not thrilled with this one. I'm sensing a gift for someone...maybe a man. I dunno.

Overall Thrill Meter?

On a scale of 0 - 10...

3.75.

Yep. That's it. Just "eh".

So, would I do this again? The answer may surprise you. Yes, I am likely to do this again. Why in the world would I? Because I like to gamble every now and then. You never know what you'll get and I like surprises...even "eh" ones.

Have you ever purchased a Craftsy Mystery Box? If so, were you happy with it?

Brooklyn Tweed

2012-07-30T18:34:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I told you all about how I was waiting for my first purchase from Brooklyn Tweed. The skein of Loft arrived today!

Here is how the skein was packaged:

The thank you card is country chic and reminds the buyer that they have purchased an American product -- FABULOUS!

And here is my skein of Loft in color 15 Blanket Fort:

No frills with this purchase, but that's ok. Brooklyn Tweed sells yarns that are strictly made in the USA. The 100% American wool is grown in Wyoming and spun in New England. They do not have a massive selection, however, the colors available are very "now" and the product is gorgeous. Once I work with this particular yarn I will know if I will be a repeat customer. So far so good, though!

Check out Brooklyn Tweed today!

Sassy FUNky Lip Ring

2012-07-30T18:18:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

Today I released a new pattern for a super fun lip shaped ring! It's really quick and easy to make. I hope you'll try it out and have fun wearing it!

Sassy FUNky Lip Ring by Alena Woods

Yarn Purchases...Some Mysterious, Others Disappointing

2012-07-30T01:56:00.000-07:00

Have you seen these deals on Craftsy?

I've received the emails and seen the ads on Facebook, but I've never taken the bait.

Until...

Last night.

With almost uncontrollable compulsion, I clicked "Buy Now" and input my details. I just adore surprises yet I've always had them ruined in some way or another. When I was a kid I would sneak a peak at Christmas gifts by deftly unwrapping them and then with precise care I would wrap them again perfectly. (Which may be how I developed my wrapping skills!) When Christmas finally came and I could open my gifts I would inevitably be disappointed -- not with what I received, but with the fact that I had disappointed myself by ruining the surprise. Many birthdays and other occasions have come and gone where a loved one has tried to surprise me and somehow I'd catch wind of the surprise and have to "play the part". So, this Craftsy purchase will almost guarantee I will be surprised...perhaps for the first time in my life. I read many, many, MANY reviews from other bloggers and on many forums about these mystery boxes and found a mixed bag of opinions. A lot of people were quite delighted with what they received while others seemed bitterly disappointed. I am hoping for the best. Rest assured, whatever reaction I have I will share it with all of YOU!

I am also awaiting a delivery for my first purchase from Brooklyn Tweed. I ordered a skein of Loft in Color 15 Blanket Fort for the Serpentine Hat designed by Catherine Shields and published in Knitscene's Fall 2012 issue.

I love the classic styling of fashion from the 1920s. I liked the color the designer chose but I fell in love with the soft lilac of Color 15. I am hoping for a successful first purchase from Brooklyn Tweed.

On Saturday I received my coveted skein of Zealana Pearl yarn ($40/skein). I have not posted photos yet because I still need to contact the shop owner on Monday. I adore the yarn -- it's truly soft and unique (made with real pearls! How can it not be amazing!?). However, the packaging was not well-thought out. The yarn arrived inside a black jeweler's box. This would have been ok, had the box not SHED all over my precious yarn! The skein should have been wrapped in tissue and placed inside some sort of protective bag before being placed inside the box. Because this oversight was made I now have a skein of limited edition yarn with black "dust" in several places that does not just "shake out". Rather, it almost looks as if the yarn has discolored from the box shedding. I phoned the shop in NY and spoke with a kind employee who stated she believed me because she bought a skein and when she got it home she discovered the same problem. I am really hoping for a solution to this because I really want to knit the special pattern that will be released with VogueKnitting's Fall issue. I will update this situation as I find out more.

If anyone else out there has received their order of Zealana Pearl yarn -- please share your thoughts! Did yours arrive in pristine condition?