nook.

a few thoughts...

noreply@blogger.com (nook.) — Mon, 15 Oct 2018 22:57:00 +0000

… as I'm nearing a milestone birthday, I've been wanting to look at life a bit differently. Sort of trying to slow things down, but not really physically slow things down, because I thrive on the schedule I keep. But I have been neglecting the importance of looking around and appreciating what's right in front of me.

And also the importance of taking time just for me.
So I started running again back near the end of summer. It had been a while for sure. (4 years since I last did any races). And it was a bit of a rough start. BUT my body remembers. And sure enough I was reaching the distances that I was running years ago.

I've noticed that I run a lot differently. I no longer want music with me. I like the silence. I like listening to my breath, and really being in tune with how my body is performing.
I like appreciating what my body can do, and I'm proud of it!
I'm not in any way super fast, or anything like that.. But that's ok. I just like enjoying the moment of running in the quiet.

So not quite two weeks ago now. (During our Thanksgiving weekend) I ran another race! I did another half marathon. And I did a personal best! One of the things I really wanted to do before my birthday was to run another half marathon. And I'm glad that I did it! There is even another one coming up on my birthday that I'm seriously considering registering for! (it's less than 2 weeks away!)

Nearing this new milestone is not such a bad thing. I'm enjoying what I have, where I live... and what I'm able to do.
I'm really realizing the importance of this new way of thinking (for me). Of slowing my thoughts down sometimes.. .even if it's just during my run.
I'm looking forward to the future.
Especially being more fit and healthy so that I can stay around a long time :) My husband and I have a lot to look forward to! .. And hopefully keep up to my growing, fast boy.

xo
Rebecca

Blogging again.

noreply@blogger.com (nook.) — Thu, 04 Oct 2018 23:44:00 +0000

Well hello!
Remember me? It's been well over a year since I've last posted in this space. Crazy to think of how much time has passed! I've thought a lot recently about revisiting the blog, and just jotting down thoughts and whatnot.. so now seems as good a time as any.

I'm still my busy knitterly self :) Always lots going on the needles (and flying off the needles). Goodnight Baby By Nook has been happily accepting lots of orders, and I feel so lucky to have such support!
One thing that has changed since I've last written here is that I now work for Gauge Dye Works! I absolutely love it! I'm Catherine's studio manager. She dyes the wool, and then brings it to me, and I look after it from there. I'm also her shipping department, and online help. (like Ravelry etc). It's such a treat to work with her, and I'm really really enjoying it!
Sample knitting still keeps me busy... as well as custom orders.
We are still living in Beautiful British Columbia and I couldn't be happier about that. I love living here.
Next week is Thanksgiving, and I really am feeling quite thankful these days. I'll be running another half marathon, and I'm sure I'll earn that turkey dinner.

All in all, I'm feeling very happy and thankful to have this life. I certainly am busy, but I seem to thrive in being so. I hope to devote more time to the blog. Just to keep you readers informed of what's going on, and updated on the samples I'm working on.

I hope there are still a few readers out there who follow this space! It's time we chatted again!
xoxo
Rebecca

Still here....

noreply@blogger.com (nook.) — Mon, 06 Mar 2017 18:44:00 +0000

photo from (Jeremy Koreski /The Globe and Mail)

It has been a bit of an emotional time for us. My husband has left for a 5 month deployment and we are just trying to find that routine.

There are so many other families going through the same feelings that we are, but sometimes it still feels pretty overwhelming.

Clearly, the blogging has taken a back seat but I am ok with that. The knitting is still keeping my fingers really busy, and I've been feeling so supported in my venture into Goodnight Baby By Nook.

I am so incredibly proud of my little man. He has shown such strength and acceptance of this big life change. So all in all, we are doing ok. We are blessed with good health, and are doing our best to stay organized.

I was spoiled by my husband with a generous pre-deployment gift... a set of interchangeable addi's!

So I think I'll need to get some selfish knitting on those needles soon.
xo

Thank you, sweet friends for always popping in on me and making sure I'm still smiling. I truly appreciate you. xo

Sock yarn for life? Yes please!!!

noreply@blogger.com (nook.) — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 02:57:00 +0000

woah. and just like that, guys almost 3 months have passed, and I haven't even been on here once! wow. BUT I'm here now! So, HELLO!! Did you miss me?

There are good reasons for my hiatus. I promise. I've been knitting. I have a market coming up in just a couple of weeks, and I've been really putting it all out there! That, and trying to balance the baby photography knits business as well keeps me a busy mama. But more on that in another post...

However, wouldn't it be great to celebrate my emerging back into the blogging world with say, a giveaway?! yeah. I think so. Well, Yarn Canada is putting on a pretty big giveaway. You could win a crapton of sock yarn! The prize is worth $1000 worth of yarn, and let me tell you, THAT could keep me happily busy for a while :) What about you?

The prize will go to whomever can show how their life will most be changed by winning and what you will do with the prize.

Sounds simple enough! All you have to do is enter HERE on Yarn Canada's site. There is even a list included of all of the yarns you would win. (so you can pre - plan your projects, obviously. hah)

The deadline for the entry is Dec 7, 2016 and the winner will be announced on Dec 14. Now wouldn't that make an amazing early Christmas present! I think so!! Contest open to Residents of USA and Canada only.

Good luck to all of you entering! Sending good vibes your way. And speedy sock knitting skills. :) xo

Easing into it...

noreply@blogger.com (nook.) — Mon, 29 Aug 2016 14:53:00 +0000

Did you check the calendar? How is September seriously only 3 days away?! That snuck up fast on me, I'm not going to lie. :) Are you ready for a new routine? I only sort of am. We had such a lovely summer! I know Owen had a lot of fun, and we were able to have a lot of family time, which is so important, as often my hubby has to be gone for much of the time.

But it is what it is, and we have to start preparing for the fall. Of course, I love the fall. And I'm really quite looking forward to roasted butternut squash soups, warm mugs of tea, and heaps of knitting!

Market season will be here before we know it. In fact a lot of venues have already put out their applications? I've applied to two. Fingers crossed that I'll be in! I'll know by September 10.

How about you? Have you embraced the change that's about to come? Are you excitedly preparing for fall and winter? Are your needles clicking away. or are you clinging on to summer, and partially in denial that school is about to start up again.

I'm a bit of both. :)

Wishing you a fantastic Monday! I hope you have a lovely week!

xoxo becca.

New Shop!

noreply@blogger.com (nook.) — Thu, 18 Aug 2016 04:57:00 +0000

I know I've been extremely quiet on this blog as of late, but I promise you, I've been a very busy bee.

I'm beyond excited to have opened up a new shop! Nook will still be running as I always have been, offering private lessons and sample knitting... but I've also branched out to own Goodnight Baby By Nook!

Over the years I've often posted about work knitting, though I've never mentioned more than that. What I had been doing was knitting for Goodnight Mouse Baby Knits. I've had the joy of knitting for Jessica, and I've made such a great friend in her. As life would have it, Jessica has also become a successful photographer, and has a business doing so. Painted Barn Photography. As you can see from the photos above, she's very talented! And so, as life with 3 boys keeps her on her toes, running both businesses just wasn't in the cards. And so I've taken the opportunity to take on the knitting shop. I am so excited to continue on in this venture and to keep knitting high quality, beautiful baby items for you all. I am looking forward to adding new items and designs to accompany these classic staples.

This is an extremely exciting adventure, and I hope you'll come on by my new facebook page and etsy shop! As I mentioned before, Nook will still remain very much the same. That facebook page will still include fun knitterly thoughts and advice, as well as an update on any upcoming events (ahem christmas markets already!?!?), Goodnight Baby is simply an extension :)

Thank you all so much for your support over the years! It gives me confidence to continue on with my dreams :) I'm so happy to be able to share this one with you.

Facebook | Etsy

xo - becca

Happy Rainbows

noreply@blogger.com (nook.) — Mon, 20 Jun 2016 19:24:00 +0000

A good rainbow'd knit is just the ticket some days :)

This shawl happened a little while ago, and it's now in the loving arms of it's new owner :) I honestly loved knitting it. It was a very quick, potato ship knit.

And the yarn? Caterpillargreen never disappoints, even her seconds skeins, which this one is. I basically wanted to create a crescent shawl in garter. Though I wanted to be sure that the color changes remained crisp and clean, so whenever there was a color change, I simply did that row in stockinette. It created a lovely, squishy shawl!

The pattern I based this on is TGV ( High Speed Knitting) by Susan Ashcroft. It's such a fantastic pattern! I highly recommend. I didn't do the ribbed edging as I didn't want to draw away from the yarn, however I think the next time I knit this shawl, I'll try it as written, and with a single color) just for kicks. That being said, I've seen it with self striping yarns, and it looks fantastic! So you know, maybe I'll make a few more. ;) Also, I used a 3.75mm/US 5 needle. It ended up being a pretty massive shawl!

This ended up being a shawl that was paid partially in trades. I scored a beautiful terrarium, and a much needed lesson on painting. I had never painted any rooms before, and I wanted to do Owen's room for him. I learned lots of great tips, and I'll definitely feel more confident and excited for my next painting adventure!

Tell me, what's on your needles? xo

In love with Rompers

noreply@blogger.com (nook.) — Thu, 26 May 2016 18:25:00 +0000

Oh look, another baby gift. :) This one, I LOVE. Truthfully, I think that the old fashioned romper is just the cutest!

Because the pattern is just a classic, basic pattern, I wanted to yarn to be rustic. I chose Loops & Threads undyed wool. This colourway is "natural", naturally. :) Even though it's 100% wool, it's really not scratchy or anything. And I know it will keep baby warm.

The pattern is Small Things Romper, and Small Things Bonnet by Carina Spencer. The patterns were very well written, and were a joy to knit. I love the simple details like around the brim of the bonnet. Just so pretty! There are several adaptations you can make to the patterns too, which Carina covers in full length. Just fantastic! And you also have a couple of options with the bonnet too.. meaning, if you wanted to, you could make it a pixie. I know I will definitely make this outfit again sometime. It's just so adorable!

I chose to do the 6 month size, because I like the idea of baby actually getting some use out of it. As for the buttons, I just dove into my stash jar, and this is what I came up with :)

I just love the whole look, put together :) The gift was very well received.. Baby was brand new when I gifted it though, so it will be a little while yet before I get to see any pictures of him in it :)

Sometimes bringing patterns & wool back to basics is just the perfect reminder of how lovely and resourceful knitting has always been. xo

still knitting! :)

noreply@blogger.com (nook.) — Wed, 18 May 2016 05:49:00 +0000

I can't believe it's been a month (almost) since I last blogged. Well no, that's not true. I can. Honestly, with the hours in the day that I spend knitting, or now spring cleaning & purging, and everything else life has me doing, I seem to not make it on here too much. But you know what? I kind of like that this space is always just waiting for me to come on here whenever I can, and put out whatever I want. yeah. I like it. And if not many people read it anymore, well okay. I can hardly expect readers to keep checking in when I'm rarely here these days. I understand. :) And maybe one day I'll get back to blogging more regularly, but until then... this will work for me.

However I have been a busy bee knitting. There have been some babies being born, so adorable baby knits needed to be made. So I knit up another Milo vest. And a pair of booties. Because they are just too adorable. This gift was for another one of Owen's teachers. And she loved it. I knit up the 6 month size, so that baby could get more rather than less wear out of it. They grow so stinking fast, that I find that doing the larger sizes are a good idea. :)

I really, really like this pattern. It's such a quick, satisfying knit. And there is just so much you can do with the pattern. You have endless options with color work, or texture. I opted for a basic thick & thin stripe sequence. I feel like this is such an adorable little man vest.

And those matching booties! gah! They really are just so cute! As per the last time I knit this set, I used Mineville wool project merino DK. And I'm still so sad that it's discontinued. It's just so very lovely to knit with! xo

I like the style of the booties because they're meant to actually stay on the foot. the contrast color actually rolls up to give a longer leg if needed. Bonus, it will keep baby's leg warm too! So practical :)

If you are ever in a jam for a quick and adorable baby knit, then I highly suggest this gem! xo

Pink light - sample

noreply@blogger.com (nook.) — Thu, 21 Apr 2016 17:58:00 +0000

I did another sample just a little while ago. This one is for Caterpillargreen yarns. Guys. I LOVE this colorway! And I know you already do too, if you've been on instagram at all.

Basically this shawl practically knit itself. I cast on and then 2 days later, it was done, and blocking. I absolutely love the flecks of pink in the greys. It was such a lovely thing to see them pop up! And of course, that pink! gah! SO vibrant!

The yarn is Caterpillargreen MCN fingering : shawl (self-striping) , colorway pink light. The sample used a 115g/4oz skein, and I used up as much as I possibly could.

It's a dream to knit with. The yarn holds great texture yet still has amazing drape. And it's really soft. So lovely!

The pattern is A Certain Darkness by Sylvia Bo Bilvia.
It's a fantastic pattern, and I highly recommend knitting it. I added the garter ridges randomly as suggested, only I just made sure not to do any garter ridges during a color change in the yarn. I also worked 10 rows of the pattern once I was into the final color change before working the final rows of garter and the picot edge. I used a US4/3.5mm needle.

I totally love that this sample is fully local! Dyer, designer, & sample knitter all in beautiful British Columbia. LOVE.

This yarn has just recently been added to Caterpillargreen's shop. I made sure to nab a larger skein of this colorway. I honestly loved knitting with it so much!

Whats your favorite self-striping yarn & shawl combo? I'd love to hear! xo

Purple Basil

noreply@blogger.com (nook.) — Fri, 15 Apr 2016 14:36:00 +0000

This shawl has actually been done for quite some time now. I know, I'm terrible at actually getting the photos taken, and then writing about it. But I can assure you, I have been really enjoying it! I grab for it often, and get several compliments :)

This is another line break by Veera Valimaki. I knit my first line break back in 2014. My sister loved it, so she and I traded for it :) I snagged a pretty shawl that she knitted! :)

At any rate, I had some leftover tosh merino light in charcoal, that I wanted to use in my second line break. I also had planned to use every last bit of the two skeins of purple basil. ..... and I'm SO glad I did! I love the outcome! And the bonus is that I used up ALL of the yarn! horray!

One thing that I was incredibly nervous about is the amount of bleeding from this yarn when I blocked it. It didn't bleed on me while I was knitting, so that's a good start. However, having friends who also dye yarn and have a few tricks up their sleeve on how to help from keeping the purple basil bleeding into the charcoal comes in handy too. Here's lookin' at you, Chantel!

I ended up using color blockers. Four sheets of them actually! These look just like dryer sheets, but you throw them in the tub (or sink) along with your knitting, and they grab hold of the dye. The link sends you to amazon, but I believe you can get them in places like London Drugs as well. Just look for them in the laundry aisle. I am certainly happy I did this, because there was SO much purple in the water. The color blockers did a fantastic job though! -- The charocal does have hints of pink to it now, but I don't mind it at all, and it makes for a very pretty shawl. :)

So here's the breakdown:

pattern: Line Break by Veera Valimaki
needle: US 3/3.25mm fixed circular Signature needles.
yarn: Madelinetosh Tosh Merino Light - 2x skeins purple basil, (840yds) & only 30grams of the charcoal.

This pattern really is a pleasure to knit. There's not much thought required to keep track, but it's still interesting enough to keep you from being bored of knitting for over 800 yds :) Of course, I'm certain this won't be the last time I knit anything from Veera.

My photos aren't the greatest, and I find this colour impossible to capture.. But I also have to admit that I don't tend to spend enough time on photos... probably because I'd rather be knitting :) Trust me though, it's a very pretty shawl. xo

What do you have on your needles? xo

sample knit! - Alluvial Plains

noreply@blogger.com (nook.) — Tue, 12 Apr 2016 03:43:00 +0000

I had the pleasure not too long ago, to help mudpunch finish a sample. The fact that we had a very similar gauge with this shawl made this such an easy project to pick up and finish quite quickly.

That and the most divine yarn. :) Chantel aka mudpunch also has a knack for pairing the most perfect patterns with her yarns. Alluvial plains by Karen MaCall is no exception!

This pattern is a fantastic match for her speckles and bits set. Don't you agree?

The only mod made with this pattern is the needle size. Chantel opted for a 4mm/US 7. The pattern calls for a 5mm./US 8. Though this resulted in a smaller shawl , the drape was not sacrificed at all with the smaller needle. Honestly, this yarn is so smooth!

This pattern is very well written, and has clear instructions throughout. There are lots of "checkpoints" so you can be sure you're on track. The new yarns added are added on both sides, so this really makes for a reversible shawl. You can't tell between the right and wrong sides at all.

I also really love the picot edging to it. It creates a nice, dainty finish.

The yarn used in this sample is Mudpunch Vibrant Fingering. If you remember the Quicksilver sample I knit up for her, you'll also remember just how much I love this yarn. The set used is the blue eyed hex. I totally love this colour combo! It makes me think of summer. LOVE! I believe Chantel knit up probably half of the shawl, maybe just over, and I finished it up for her. To be honest, I loved knitting this so much that I was a little sad that it was over so quickly! LOL.

I highly recommend knitting this pattern. It was interesting enough not to bore at all. And the short rows made for quick colour changes. All in all, I used 581 yds. See my Ravelry page for specifics on each colour.

I don't think I'll ever grow tired of knitting shawls. I love them so much! Want to snag a set of these yarns for yourself?? Check out Chantel's online shop.

Do you have a favourite shawl pattern on the needles? Do share!! xo

On a cloud.

noreply@blogger.com (nook.) — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 16:35:00 +0000

Hiya!

It's spring!! And I've been busily knitting away. No surprise there :) I've been able to open up my knitting schedule to accept more sample & test knitting, and I'm really enjoying switching up the pace a little!

My husband's schedule is proving to be very busy over the unforeseeable future, and so I'm planning on diving into my very well loved stash to work away on some luxury knits! That should help pass the time, don't you think?

However, I've actually completed several knits that I haven't blogged about, and only barely taken pictures of. Yesterday I decided to snap a few pics and be warned, they're not great. Photo taking really isn't my strong point. I much prefer to be curled up knitting ;)

First up, the cloud cowl! This has been done a while now, I'd like to say at least a month, maybe two? I can't even remember.
I ended up snagging 3x skeins of Drops Cloud while most likely searching for something else. I just couldn't stop touching it, it's really so so soft! It's a "blown" yarn made from alpaca, merino wool & nylon. The write up for the yarn in ravelry says that "Its construction is unique, based on the newest yarn technologies, where instead of spinning, the fibres of baby alpaca and merino wool are air blown into a tube, which makes the garments made in this yarn about 30-35% lighter than those made with conventional spun yarns of the same thickness."

I have to tell you, it's SO light! I knew I wanted it around my neck. This was going to be a super quick & satisfying knit, as when I bought the yarn, my LYS (the beehive here in Victoria) gave me the pattern for free! It's a basic, simple pattern, and I love the outcome. The pattern isn't listed in Ravelry anywhere, but I can tell you it was a simple repeat . And I used 8mm needles for my cowl.

I've worn it many times since, and it keeps me so warm! Though it looks enormous for a cowl, it never gets in the way. I love it!

This would make a fantastic gift, or of course instant gratification knit for yourself! Knit with this yarn. You won't be disappointed. xo

Fennel love

noreply@blogger.com (nook.) — Wed, 16 Mar 2016 14:53:00 +0000

I did another quick test knit just a little while ago. And I LOVE them!

This is Fennel by my dear friend Liisa Nieminen aka Fluffandhustle.

I used up some of my leftovers of plucky fingering yarn (you really don't need very much , the pattern calls for only 110 yds/100m for the largest size.. which is the one with the thumb hole). I am already trying to decide what other colors I'd like to knit them up with.

These would make FANTASTIC last minute gifts, and it's such a great way to help use up your leftover fingering yarn! It's a win all around :)

I definitely recommend it. Go and grab your free copy of the pattern here and knit a few pairs up! xo

Forever Valentine

noreply@blogger.com (nook.) — Mon, 07 Mar 2016 17:59:00 +0000

This FO has actually been done for some time now. I seem to seriously procrastinate when it comes to picture taking. lol!

So let's get right down to it, shall we?

The pattern is Be My Valentine Socks, by The Cozy Knitter.

I used Hazel Knits Artisan Sock in Strawberry Lemonade and US0/2mm needle. -- I seriously LOVE this colour, and I found it so hard to capture. So I'm really hoping you have a chance to see this yarn in person and maybe grab a skein, it's so lovely!

This pattern is really well written, and very easy to follow. I absolutely LOVE the x&o detail!! It was also a quick one to knit up! The cable work broke up the stockinette just perfectly, and before I knew it, it was heel time!

Usually I tend to pick toe up sock patterns, because I like to use up all the yarn. But that really makes for incredibly long socks. These are still toe up, BUT i decided to go for a shorter sock. It's still perfect. .... AND I have some leftovers for any little doodad.

This was the first time I've ever knit a fish lips kiss heel. Goodness do I ever feel super clever! haha. The instructions for the fish lips heel are very detailed, and just fantastic. Grab them here.

Overall, I love these socks! Now I'd better hurry and cast on a new pair of socks!

What are your favorite heels to work? Yarns? Come chat! tea's on. xo

elephants make me happy

noreply@blogger.com (nook.) — Mon, 29 Feb 2016 18:48:00 +0000

Of course it's been an entire month since I've blogged last. Of course. Whelp, that's the way February went, I suppose! This doesn't mean I haven't been busy knitting, because you know THAT can't be true!

It seems there are many babies about to be born. One to Owen's grade 1 teacher. He had such fun last year in her class, and so a hand knit had to be made :)

This has been done for quite some time, but as we only just recently gifted it, I didn't want photos floating around before that happened. Now it's safe!

This is the first time I've knit the MILO vest. And it certainly won't be the last! What a fantastic construction! I had such a good time knitting it. It's very quick, and allows for so many different variations. As the gender of this baby was going to be a surprise, I knew I didn't want to do the traditional yellow or whatever. Actually, I don't think people do the pastel yellow or purple or greens anymore... do they?

Anyways, I had some Mineville Wool stashed away for the perfect knit, and this was going to be it :) I sadly wish that I had scooped up more of this yarn while I had the chance as I'm pretty sure this base is no longer available. It's 100% merino, machine washable (which is perfect for a tired parent) and is a DK. I suppose this being a coveted yarn in my stash makes this gift that much more special. :)

So the details:
Milo by Georgie Nicholson (I knit the 9 mos size)
Yarn: Mineville Wool Project dk in Cauldron & Bright Moss
Needles: US 4/3.5mm & US 5/3.75mm

I love it! Like I said, it allows for so many different variations once the yoke is completed. For this particular vest, I took advantage of the blank slate, and decided to put in elephants. How cute! This teacher loves the colour green, so I knew I wanted to incorporate a bit into it. Apparently she also grows big babies, so I decided to knit up the 9 month size. This way babe will surely have some time to wear it. (I've decided that newborn handknits, though absolutely adorable, get so little wear out of them.. and you can't be sure that the baby born will be small enough... so if I'm gifting a handknit, particularly a garment, I'd like to see some use out of it.. that nixes the nb size).

The pattern is very clear, with so many different sizes to choose from. I do suggest you highlight the size you are working on, just to make those numbers stand out. And I did take the designer's advice in going down in needle size for the garter yoke. I like to know that the vest will fit snugly, and garter has a lot of give, so this worked out just perfect in sizing.

The bottom row of elephants ended up puckering just ever so slightly, which kind of bothered me. I must have just tugged on the CC a little bit. So that would be something I'd look out for in the future. Of course, this won't be noticeable once babe is wearing it.

And can we just take a little minute to ohh and aaah over these adorable booties? I know you've seen them before, because I blogged about them in my last post. But surely they deserve another squeal of cuteness!

Have you knit the Milo vest before? Do you have a go-to for baby booties?
I thoroughly enjoyed this gift knit, which is definitely a good thing, as it seems there are many friends having babies! It's a good time to be a knitter. xo

my ovaries hurt

noreply@blogger.com (nook.) — Mon, 01 Feb 2016 15:17:00 +0000

So this happened this weekend....

And they are probably the cutest baby booties I think I've ever made. Which is easy to say, because I've only made one other pair..... and in all honesty they are pretty cute too...

But these are newer to me, and so more popular in my books right now. I love the simplicity of them! The options of color-work are pretty much endless. You can use solids, a different color for the cuff, or even a variegated yarn would work too!

Ok I'm sure you want to knit your own, so here are the details:
pattern: Rolled Cuff Baby Booties by Nickie Alexander
Yarn: basically I just searched the stash for anything worsted or dk.. even though the pattern calls for aran, I think you can use almost anything. Just hold double if it's fingering, and adjust for size..
BUT the ones above from left to right are knit with - mineville wool project in i believe merino DK in bright moss & cauldron and the other pair is knit with - plucky knitter traveler aran in honey wilkes, & madtosh 80/10/10 worsted in fog.

Personally, I think i like the tighter gauge, and I' already such a loose knitter. The larger of the two pairs is knit with US9/5.5mm & US8/5mm and the other pair is knit with US5/3.75mm and US6/4mm . Both sizes are knit in the 3 month size. There's a lot of stretch to them too. Especially the larger pair, so I'm sure they'd fit much bigger than 3 months.

One thing that was a bit confusing to me at first, is the designer calls M1R equal to M1B when I actually would call M1R the same as M1F. I realize maybe understanding that the needle goes into the BACK of the stitch (then you’d knit into the front, making a M1R) but when I first learned the increases I understood that you would label Back or Front based on which side of the stitch you’d be KNITTING into, not picking up.

at any rate, I figured it out just fine. And I think they are the most adorable booties ever. EVER. Such a fantastic way to use up bits of yarn. :) This will definitely be a go-to pattern for me!
xo

Sadly, the mineville with this base I used isn't being produced anymore, as far as I understand. I wish that I would have bought my LYS' stash of it before they sold out. I'd totally knit a sweater out if it, it's so lovely!

At any rate, my plan today is to search for more yarn and colorways to add to this adorable collection! Do you have a favorite baby bootie pattern? Do tell! xo

from sweater to vest. xo

noreply@blogger.com (nook.) — Fri, 29 Jan 2016 17:49:00 +0000

Though I do a few customs, sample knitting, and product knitting, I also help to revive old knits. Be it mending, or in this case, changing the garment so that it's wearable again!

This is such a beautiful cowichan sweater. And it's a bit of a very special heirloom. However mum was a bit shorter than her daughter is, so I was asked if we could transform this sweater into a vest. What a beautiful, and fantastic idea!

So that's what I did. Admittedly, I was a little sad frogging the arms. However, I knew this meant giving the sweater new life, and it was really so fascinating to see just how the knitter carried the yarns, I also knew the sweater was well loved and used, as I found lots of sand in the yarn. I can just imagine the cozy seaside walks that were taken while wearing this garment.

This really was a very easy fix, as this style of sweater is often knit in pieces and then seamed together. Once the sleeves were off, I just picked up stitches around the armhole and crocheted a few rounds. It gave the vest more stability, and provided the look which was just what I was looking for. A couple of hours de-pilling later, and presto.

And so now, I hope that it gets much more use again, and hopefully sees more seaside walks in it's future. I have no doubt it will. xo The little cowichain-inspired cowl was a gift that I made up from the sleeves. xo

on the mend

noreply@blogger.com (nook.) — Mon, 25 Jan 2016 18:30:00 +0000

I am happy to say I am healing well, and last week proved to be a pretty productive week, knitting wise. The Mr's socks were easily completed, and the little man requested a matching pair of his own. So those were relatively quick to whip up.

Also, it seems so many people (that I know) are pregnant, so I decided to get a head start on baby knitting... and the first of a few gifts flew off the needles! Though I don't want to reveal quite yet what I made, as it hasn't been actually GIVEN yet.

I am still working on socks for me, so that #operationsockdrawer remains in full swing :) But really, I'm just looking forward to getting back to my normal pace.

Thank you to those of you who've "popped in" online to see how I've been feeling. It's been nice to have you look out for me!

So in the meantime, here's a picture of pretty yarn to tide you over for a bit. And I promise, as soon as both my men can sit still long enough, I'll get some cute pics of them in their matching gentleman's socks. xo

post surgery = knitting time!

noreply@blogger.com (nook.) — Wed, 20 Jan 2016 21:41:00 +0000

I had surgery on monday. It was just day surgery, and it was pretty minor. However it leaves me with a few days of post surgery resting. That means knitting when I'm not sleeping!

And I've made great progress on my main man's socks! Let me tell you, when he told me that he'd go for another try at handmade socks, I got so excited! He spotted the yarn in a shop over Christmas holidays, and when he mentioned he'd wear socks made out of it, I had to buy it.

One down, and the second well underway, I think he'll be wearing these socks in no time!
This of course leaves my mind to wonder what I should knit up next. I'm thinking something in a DK weight.

I actually have 2 skeins of Northbound Knitting Merino Silk DK in the colourway Metallurgy. And I've got 3 possible projects for it. So I'm looking for your vote... All of these patterns are by Lisa Mutch herself. And as she's the magic behind Northbound Knitting yarns, I trust any of these patterns would be lovely... still though, I'd like help narrowing it down..

1. Ingot.

Originally, this is what I bought the yarn for. I liked the idea of a cowl that could also fit over my shoulders. This calls for 2 skeins, however I've seen many use just 1 skein. I tend to always end up with extra yardage. It's my gauge or whatever, but I've always found that I have extra yarn.

2. Clinquant.

Yes, I realize this calls for 3 skeins, and I only have 2. But I could just make it a bit smaller. This is, afterall a generous sized shawl. It's so pretty too!

3. Maim.

I just think this shawl is so pretty. It's very basic with it's garter stitching, but the edge has something interesting to it. I love it. I would use the entire 2 skeins to get every last bit of yardage out of it.

So there you have it. What would be your pick? xo

sample knitting!

noreply@blogger.com (nook.) — Tue, 12 Jan 2016 20:33:00 +0000

I finished a sample knit a little while ago.. I loved knitting it so much, I think I will make another, for me.

This is Quicksilver by Melanie Berg.
I knit this sample for Mudpunch Yarns. Chantel chose the colours, and I have to say (though it's probably very obvious), her colour choices are just perfect!

The pattern is very straightforward. Very easy to put down and pick up. I love that even though it's basic knitting, the results are rather stunning!
Here's the "knitty gritty"
Pattern: Quicksilver by Melanie Berg
needle: US5 / 3.75mm fixed signature circular needles
Yarn: Mudpunch Vibrant Fingering in (A) shadow (B) newsprint & (C) life aquatic

It's a massive shawl, using over 800yds. But I would't have it any other way, the drape is amazing! This is much to do with the yarn too...

So let's talk about the yarn. This is knit with mudpunch vibrant fingering. Guys, it's such NICE yarn! It's a mix of 70% merino wool, 20% cashmere goat, and 10% nylon. The cashmere with the merino makes the yarn feel so incredibly smooth! Knitting with it was heaven! It gives incredible drape, and blocks really nicely.

The colours didn't bleed a bit. Chantel makes absolutely sure that her colour sticks, and I had nothing to worry about even with these contrasts.

*for more photos of this sample, & exact yarn usages, check out my ravelry page. *

If you've never knit with mudpunch yarns, I highly suggest you do! You won't be disappointed! Be sure to check our her self-striping yarns too!

Check out her website for all info mudpunch. Her Instagram is always brimming with yarn photos too.

Website | Ravelry | Instagram | Facebook

As for the Quicksilver pattern? Knit it. Just do it. It's so lovely, and stunning! I have a feeling that I'll be knitting a lot of Melanie Berg's patterns. xo

welcome 2016!

noreply@blogger.com (nook.) — Tue, 05 Jan 2016 18:05:00 +0000

There's good reason why my blogging has been very sporadic over 2015. It's been a tough year. We've struggled through infertility treatments, had a health scare, and my husband was away for over half of that year, with one course taking him away from us for 5 months.

And so, blogging took a back burner. Which is fine. I need for this space to be a place I look forward to jotting down entries here and there, and not feel obligated to have something to say every day.

That being said, the knitting has kept me busy. My little man is now not so little anymore, with just having his 8th birthday!! And I'm back to doing a more regular exercise routine, as I was doing back in the fall.

Things are looking up for 2016, I'm sure! I have some FO's to share with you as soon as I can get some pictures taken. My husband is HOME! (for a little while at least) and we are really enjoying family time again. It's always an adjustment though, but we make a good team, and we're slowly finding our new normal.

I wanted to take a moment to thank you, dear friends. Thank you for popping by this space and sharing in my little entries. I love the crafting world, and I've met so many fantastic people through knitting. Thanks for taking the time to get to know me, and for sharing in my obsessive er.. no passionate love for all things yarn. :)

I hope to make it a bit more of a priority to knit with my stash (I really do love it), and to knit more selfishly... I have to mention though that I consider knitting for my family selfish too. hee hee...

Thank you all for your support! For those of you who've hired me as a sample knitter, product knitter, or test knitter, and for those who have taken lessons, purchased product, or requested commissions. Thank you so much for supporting my little business. Here's to a fantastic 2016!! xo

Remembering.

noreply@blogger.com (nook.) — Thu, 12 Nov 2015 18:08:00 +0000

Maybe it's the fact that I'm getting older, maybe it's missing OMA so much, but this Remembrance Day I really wanted to do more. My Oma was one of the first people to teach me to knit, and she was so very supportive of my work. Whenever I knit, I often find myself thinking of her.

It started out as a little project for Owen and I to have a knitted poppy. As soon as I posted a picture though, things got a bit crazy. I was getting flooded with requests for poppies. How amazing! I decided I would take donations for the poppies, and I quickly had to put a cap on the orders. I could only get so much done before the 11th! (I had less than a week since I first posted the picture).

I am excited to say that almost 50 poppies later, $206 CAD was collected in donations. All proceeds have been sent to the Royal Canadian Legion. This may be the start of something so lovely.
I plan to get a head start on poppy making for next year, so please, for those of you who didn't get one this year, next year I'll be more prepared.

Thank you so much for your donations, and your support. I am pleased to see that Remembrance Day is becoming more recognized, and the turnout is getting larger every year. My family is from Holland. The details Oma gave me during her last visit out here were so real, and raw. I am so thankful that throughout such hardships, my family remained so strong. I hope I can be brave, like Oma.

xo

I'm waving at you!

noreply@blogger.com (nook.) — Tue, 03 Nov 2015 17:56:00 +0000

When I've been especially quiet in this space, I think it's just assumed I'm buried in yarn. And to be truthful, that's what's going on :)

I can not believe that November is already upon us! October saw just shy of 70 FO's just for work knitting! Though it's not my record, it's still definitely a busy month! I also had some customs, and a sample go on the needles as well...

And if that weren't enough to take on, I ended up deciding to do a Market! Owen's school is putting on it's first annual Holiday Market, and I'm doing a booth! Owen will be helping me, of course. He is beyond excited as he'll be finger knitting, and selling his necklaces. :) I'm so proud of him! There will be another post about this market soon enough. xo

Please believe me, I think of spending more time in this space often. But as most of you are also crafters, I'm sure you understand the chaos of this season of ours. Holiday knitting is upon us!

I think also that this year has been harder for me to post more frequently as my husband has been away since the summer. He's been gone on course, and we won't see him home until just before Christmas. It makes for busy, and long days for me.

I also have a few selfish knits on the needles as well! Sadly socktober only gave me 1 sock. Not even a pair! haha But hopefully soon I'll see more socks in my sock drawer.

Tell me, what holiday knits do you have planned? Will you treat yourself and make sure you have a new handknit to wear? I'd love to hear from you! xo

Denise 2 Go Knitting Set - A review

noreply@blogger.com (nook.) — Tue, 06 Oct 2015 18:01:00 +0000

I'm a fan of purses, or bags. Big ones.. Because I like to tote a lot of things around with me. This usually includes my kindle, wallet, knitting (several projects sometimes), phone, keys, snacks, extra snacks for my ever growing almost 8 year old, a water bottle... you get the picture...

Sometimes I manage to throw in the tablet or a book for my little man too! When we head out, we try to be prepared.. And of course, that means I stuff my bag to the brim. Who's with me? Yeah, I bet many of you are...

So when I hear of something compact, and incredibly functional, I'm ALL ears!

Introducing this amazing, and seriously cute, Denise 2 Go knitting set!

Yah. uber cute, hey? Guys, it fits in the palm of your hand! Having something so compact, and portable, and totally functional to just pop in my bag is perfection! Not to mention perfect for those flights! Yah, this works in my life so perfectly!

YarnCanada.ca has 3 sets. A small set (which is the one that I am reviewing), a medium set, and a crochet set! And they all come in a beautiful hand-sewn cotton case.

This small set comes with six pairs of knitting needles ranging from sizes US5/3.75mm to US10/6mm. There are 3 cords sized 14", 16" & 19" (36, 41 & 48 cm).

These are so easy to adjust. With a twist and a click, your needle is firmly attached!

The set doesn't stop there though! Included also are 2 end buttons to turn any cord into a stitch holder (that's thinking on your feet!) or to use as an end cap to create a straight flexible needle. There's even an extender for cord to cord connections so if you need a cable longer than what's provided, just add the extender, and presto! Let's not forget the handy crochet hook for picking up dropped stitches. Yes, they've thought of everything.

I really love it! Normally I knit with metal needles, and I can tell you that the tips never snagged while I was knitting. I loved that. Also, my mind would be put to ease in just carrying this handy 2 go set on an airplane. The cables take a tiny bit of coaxing but really are fairly pliable.

I really think this is one of the most adorable sets!

The shipping is also crazy affordable, heck this item qualifies for free shipping! And in Canada that's a big deal. :)

You can find the full selection of Denise knitting & crochet sets HERE.

They'd make great gifts for any knitter or crocheter! xo

*disclosure - I received a set of needles in exchange for a review, and received no monetary compensation. The opinions I've written are my own. *