Alex the Alchemist

Purple Lace Scarf

2012-06-16T16:09:00.001-04:00

Materials:
-US size 8 (5 mm) straight knitting needles
-1 skein Red Heart Super Saver yarn in Amethyst
-Yarn or tapestry needle

Abbreviations:
-CO- cast on
-BO- bind off
-st(s)- stitch(es)
-k- knit
-p- purl
-yo- yarn over
-k2tog- knit 2 together
-SKP- slip 1, knit 1, pass slipped stitch over
-sl- slip

Instructions:
CO 26 sts.
Rows 1 and 3: k2, * p4, k1, p4, k4 * repeat from * to last 2 sts, k2
Row 2: p2, * yo, SKP, k2, p1, k2, k2tog, yo, p4 * repeat from * to last 2 sts, p2
Row 4: p2, * k1, yo, SKP, k1, p1, k1, k2tog, you, k1, p4 * repeat from * to last 2 sts, p2
Rows 5 and 7: p6, * k1, p12 * repeat from * to last 6 sts, p6
Row 6: k4, * yo, SKP, p1, k2tog, yo, k8 * repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4
Row 8: k5, * yo, sl1, k2tog, pass sl st over the k2tog, yo, k10 * repeat from * to last 5 sts, k5
Work these rows until piece measures 50 in.
BO all sts.
Weave in your ends.

Bamboo Hat

2012-06-04T16:31:00.000-04:00

This was made from some yarn that my friend John gave me for Christmas. I'm not exactly sure what the color or style it was, but I do know the brand, and that you can get it at Big Lots. Anyway, I tried to kind of give it a leafy effect, if you look really close, and the color just reminds me of bamboo.

Materials:
-US size 7 (4.5 mm) circular needles
-Gala mixed fiber yarn
-Yarn or tapestry needle

Abbreviations:
-sts- stitches
-k- knit
-p- purl
-CO- cast on
-BO- bind off
-k2tog- knit 2 together
-rep- repeat

Instructions:
CO 60 sts.
Join in the round.
Work in k2, p2 rib for 1.5 in.
Rounds 1 and 5: * p1, k3 * rep from * to end.
Rounds 2 and 4: * p2, k2 * rep from * to end.
Round 3: * p3, k1 * rep from * to end.
Work in this way until piece measures 7.5 in.
k2tog all sts for the next round.
BO all sts.
Sew up the top and weave in your ends.

Blue Cable Hat

2012-06-03T15:14:00.002-04:00

I realize it's been a very long time since I last posted, but I've been quite busy and I have also had many, many, many failed knitting projects.

Materials:

-US size 7 (4.5 mm) circular needles

-Red Heart Soft yarn in Navy

-cable needle

-yarn or tapestry needle

Abbreviations:

-k- knit

-p- purl

-CO- cast on

-BO- bind off

-sl- slip

-st(s)- stitch(es)

-k2tog- knit 2 together

Making the hat:

CO 60 sts.

Join in the round.

Work in k2, p2 rib for 1.5 in.

Work in stockinette st.

Every 4th row, do the following row:

* k24, sl 3 onto cable needle, put cable needle to back of work, k3 from regular needle, k3 from cable needle * repeat from * to end

Work in this way until piece measures 8 in.

k2tog all sts next round.

BO all sts.

Finishing:

Sew up the top and weave in your ends.

Bright Button Hat

2012-04-06T15:41:00.000-04:00

I've decided to go ahead and get started on my Christmas presents this year so I won't be tempted to procrastinate. This is the first one I have made.

Not the best picture of me, but it showcases the hat nicely.

Materials:
-1 skein Red Heart Super Saver yarn in Gold
-US size 7 (4.5 mm) circular needles
-A large button
-Yarn needle

Abbreviations:
-sts- stitches
-CO- cast on
-BO- bind off
-k- knit
-p- purl
-k2tog- knit 2 together

Instructions:
CO 60 sts.
Join in the round.
Work in k2, p2 rib for 2.5 in.
K all sts until piece measures 9 in. from beginning.
k2tog all sts for 1 round.
Cut yarn, leaving 8 in tail.
Thread the yarn through the yarn needle.
Pass the yarn through all the sts on circular needles.
Slip all sts off needles and pull tightly.
Sew up the top.
Weave in your ends.

Spring Ding Dong Scarf

2012-03-23T15:49:00.001-04:00

Mom had given me this gorgeous yarn and, although I know that I need to get another project done, I just couldn't help myself.

Materials:
-1 skein Lion Brand Amazing in Mauna Loa
-US size 10.5 (6.5 mm) straight knitting needles
-Yarn or tapestry needle

Abbreviations:
-CO- cast on
-BO- bind off
-k- knit
-p- purl
-yo- yarn over
-k2tog- knit 2 together
-sts- stitches

Instructions:
CO 16 sts.
Row 1 and all uneven rows (wrong side): k2, * p5, k2 * repeat from * to end
Row 2: p2, * yo, k2tog, k3, p2 * repeat from * to end
Row 4: p2, * k1, yo, k2tog, k2, p2 * repeat from * to end

This is what it looks like up close.

Row 6: p2, * k2, yo, k2tog, k1, p2 * repeat from * to end
Row 8: p2, * k3, yo, k2tog, p2 * repeat from * to end
Work until piece measures 50 in. from beginning.
BO all sts.
Using yarn needle, weave in your ends.

Red and Black Beanie

2012-03-20T16:02:00.002-04:00

I actually wasn't planning on making a hat for a while, but I've been working on some rather large projects and I needed a break. Besides, I had gotten a comment from someone who couldn't wait to see my next hat pattern, so I couldn't resist for long.

Materials:

-1 skein each Caron Simply Soft yarn in Red (A) and Black (B)

-US size 7 (4.5 mm) circular needles

-Yarn or tapestry needle

Abbreviations:

St(s)- stitch(es)

k- knit

p- purl

k2tog- knit 2 together

m1- pick up and knit the bar in between the sts

CO- cast on

Sl- slip

Psso- pass slipped st over

Hat:

CO 60 sts in A.

Join in the round.

Work in k2, p2 rib for 2 in.

Switch to B.

* k1, m1, k8, m1, k1 * to end

K all sts for next round.

* k2, m1, k8, m1, k2 * to end

Work the following rounds until piece measures 8 ½ in.

Round 1: * k19, sl1, m1, k1, psso the m1 and k1 * rep to end

Round 2: k all sts.

After piece measures 8 ½ in, work the following round:

* k2tog 9 times, k1, and depending on what round you’re on, either k2 or sl1, m1, k1, psso the m1 and k1 * rep to end.

Cut the yarn, leaving 6 in tail.

Thread the yarn through your needle and slide through all sts on needle.

Pull tight, sew up, and weave in all ends.

Crochet Thread

2012-03-16T15:42:00.000-04:00

Recently, I have been working on a skirt the color of red velvet cake. Underneath it, I wanted to create a tulle effect, so I decided to use white crochet thread, as opposed to white yarn. That got me to think, “Why is it called crochet thread if you can knit with it, too?” There’s nothing wrong with it. It gives the piece a stiffer effect, and, when worked in stockinette st, it doesn’t curl up as much. When worked on larger needles, it almost looks like it’s knitted in openwork. My point is, crochet thread should not be limited to crocheting, especially if it looks as good (if not better) knitted.

Nats-Themed Bat Cover

2012-03-10T15:58:00.001-05:00

For those of you who don't know this, I'm a hee-yuge fan of the Washington Nationals. My favorite player? Michael Morse. I love that man. Anyway, to get myself into the spirit of baseball season, I knitted this Nats-themed bat cover and I will later send it to Michael Morse.

If you've never seen Morse up to bat, never mind.

Materials:

-US size 6 (4 mm) dpns (set of 4)

-Red Heart Super Saver yarn in Cherry Red (A), White (B), and Blue (C), 1 skein each

-Yarn or tapestry needle

Abbreviations:

-sts- stitches

-k- knit

-p- purl

-dpn(s)- double-pointed needle(s)

-CO- cast on

-BO- bind off

-dec- decrease

-k2tog- knit 2 together

-p2tog- purl 2 together

Instructions:

CO 30 st in A.

Divide evenly between 3 dpns.

Work in k2, p2 rib until piece measures 2 in.

Change to B.

Continue in rib for ½ in.

Change to A.

Continue in rib for 1 in.

Change to B.

Continue in rib for ½ in.

Change to A.

Continue in rib until piece measures 15 ½ in. from beginning.

Change to C.

P2tog all purl sts.

K all k sts and p all p sts for 1 round.

K2tog all knit sts.

K all k sts and p all p sts for 1 round.

Change to B.

Work in k1, p1 rib until piece measures 30½ in.

BO all sts.

Finishing:

Weave in your ends.

Net Stockings

2012-02-29T16:09:00.002-05:00

Ever since I knitted the striped stockings, I've had a few requests for stockings. This is what I came up with for my friend, Monica.

Materials:

-US size 6 (4 mm) straight needles and set of 4 double-pointed needles

-1 skein Red Heart Super Saver yarn in Black

-Yarn or tapestry needle

Abbreviations:
-CO- cast on

-BO- bind off

-sts- stitches

-k- knit

-p- purl

-yo- yarn over

-k2tog- knit 2 together

-dec- decrease

-dpns- double-pointed needles

-sl- slip st

-psso- pass slipped st over the knitted st

Gauge:
10 sts = 2.5 in.

Instructions:

CO 13 sts.

Divide between 2 dpns. (6 on Needle 1, 7 on Needle 2)

Join in the round.

Knit off all sts from needles 1 and 2 using needles 3 and 4.

Using Needle 3, k2, m1, k1.

Using Needle 4, k1, m1, k4, m1, k1.

Using whatever other needle you have leftover, k1, m1, k3.

Work the following round every other row 4 times:

Needle 1: k to last st, m1, k1. Needle 2: k1, m1, k to last st, m1, k1. Needle 3: k1, m1, k the rest of the sts.

Repeat the following 4 rounds until you get to your heel:

Round 1: Needle 1: yo, k2tog, yo, k2tog, k to end. Needle 2: k all sts. Needle 3: k to last 4 sts, yo, k2tog, yo, k2tog.

Rounds 2 and 4: Needle 1: k all sts. Needle 2: k all sts. Needle 3: k all sts.

Round 3: Needle 1: sl1, k1, psso, yo, sl1, k1, psso, yo, k to end. Needle 2: k all sts. Needle 3: k to last 4 sts, sl1, k1, psso, yo, sl1, k1, psso, yo.

When you get to the beginning of your heel, work needles 1 and 3 normally, but work a short row heel on needle 2.

Work the rest of the piece on straight needles.

Pick up where you left off with the net pattern in the following way (Round 1 corresponds with row 1, round 2 with row 2, etc.:

Row 1: k8, * yo, k2tog * 4 times, k to end.

Rows 2 and 4: P all sts.

Row 3: k8, * sl1, k1, psso, yo * 4 times, k to end.

Every 8th row, work a yo 2 sts from the edge without a dec to even it out 6 times, and then with a dec to even it out 8 times.

For the final 8 rows, where you k all sts in the pattern, instead work a k1, p1 rib.

Work a yo with a dec 2 sts from the edge on the 8th row.

BO all sts.

Finishing:

Weave in your ends.

Sew up the toe.

Weave a piece of leftover yarn through the yarn-overs on the back of the piece and then tie in a bow.

Smittens (Mock Socks)

2012-02-14T15:55:00.000-05:00

Well, there are glittens, or mittens + gloves. These are smittens, or mock socks, or whatever you want to call them. You can fold the toes up if it's too hot. I'm trying to find some buttons to put at the top to hold them up, but the nearest place I can find them is the local Wal-Mart, and, honestly, I just don't trust that to bring all my crafting supplies. I digress. Here's the pattern.

Side view, toes down

Front view, toe up

Front view, toe down

Materials:
-US size 6 (4mm) dpns (set of 4)
-1 skein Red Heart Super Saver yarn in Gold
-Yarn or tapestry needle
-A button for each sock, unless you can only get buttons from Wal-Mart

Gauge:
5 sts = 1 inch stockinette st

Abbreviations:
-CO- cast on
-BO- bind off
-k- knit
-p- purl
-k2tog- knit 2 together
-dpns- double-pointed needles
-sl- slip st

Instructions:
CO 42 sts.
Divide between 3 dpns (10 on needle 1, 21 on needle 2, and 11 on needle 3)
Join in the round.
Work in k1, p1 rib for 1.5 in.
K all sts for 3 rounds.
Next round: Needle 1: k all sts. Needle 2: Work a short row heel. Needle 3: k all sts.
K all sts until work measures 4 in. from beginning when measuring across the top.
BO all sts.
To make the fold-up toe:
Pick up and knit 19 sts across the top of the sock with needle 1.
CO 20 sts onto needle 2.
Join in the round.
K all sts until the piece measures the length of your foot from the heel to toe when stretched.
Next round: Needle 1: sl1, k2tog to end. Needle 2: sl1, k2tog to last st, sl1.
BO all sts.

Finishing:
Weave in your ends.
Sew up the toe.
And, if you've managed to find some cool and quality buttons, sew them onto the ribbed cuff of the sock, then, make a loop with the yarn large enough to fit around the button at the end of the toe.

Stripey Stockings

2012-02-11T10:45:00.002-05:00

So I've been wanting a pair of srtiped tights for Halloween and other fun occasions every year. I don't really have enough money to buy them, but I do have enough to buy the yarn to make them!

Materials:
-US size 6 (4mm) straight and double-pointed needles (set of 4)
-Red Heart Super Saver yarn in Cherry Red (A) and Black (B), 1 skein each
-Thin black ribbon
-Yarn or tapestry needle

Gauge:

This is what it looks like from the back.

10 sts = 2.5 in.

Abbreviations:
-CO- cast on
-BO- bind off
-sts- stitches
-k- knit
-p- purl
-k2tog- knit 2 together
-p2tog- purl 2 together
-yo- yarn over
-dpns- double-pointed needles

Instructions:

CO 13 sts using color A. (Switch colors every 6 rows)

Divide between 2 dpns. (6 on Needle 1, 7 on Needle 2)

Join in the round.

Knit off all sts from needles 1 and 2 using needles 3 and 4.

Using Needle 3, k2, m1, k1.

Using Needle 4, k1, m1, k4, m1, k1.

Using whatever other needle you have leftover, k1, m1, k3.

Work the following round every other row 4 times:

Needle 1: k to last st, m1, k1. Needle 2: k1, m1, k to last st, m1, k1. Needle 3: k1, m1, k the rest of the sts.

Work straight for 6 total stripes from the beginning of the work.

Work 2 rounds for the next stripe, then:

Needle 1: k all sts. Needle 2: Work a short row heel. Needle 3: k all sts.

After you have done this, k 3 more rounds.

Switch to the next color and work 2 more stripes.

Before switching colors again, work like this:

Needle 1: k all sts. Needle 2: k8

Starting at the st after the k8 on Needle 2, put all sts on straight needles.

Once you have done this, k 1 row on straight needles.

Switch colors (and continue to do this every 6 rows like before)

Every 4^th row of every 2^nd stripe, work this row:

K2 (or p2 depending on what row you’re on), yo, k (or p) to last 2 sts, yo, k2 (or p2)

Work that 6 times, then, every 4^th row of every 2^nd stripe work this row:

K1 (or p1), k2tog (or p2tog), yo, k (or p) to last 3 sts, yo, k2tog (or p2tog), k1 (or p1)

Work this 3 times.

Switch colors.

Work in k1, p1 rib for 5 rows.

BO all sts.

Knitty Kitty

2012-01-06T08:31:00.000-05:00

I knitted this for Mommy (who I just recently taught how to knit) for Christmas. It's so cuddly! I would have given it buttons for eyes, but after watching Coraline, I will never be able to give ANYTHING button eyes.

Materials:
-Red Heart Super Saver yarn in Mexicana
-4mm double pointed needles (set of 4)
-Yarn or tapestry needle
-Cotton or poly-blend stuffing
Abbreviations:
CO- cast on
BO- bind off
sts- stitches
k- knit
m1- make 1 st by picking up and knitting the bar in between the 2 sts.
Rep- repeat

Body:

CO 27 sts.

Divide between 3 dpns (9 sts per needle)

Inc 1 st at both ends of each dpn every other row 3 times.

K all sts until work measures 6 in.

K2tog all sts for one round.

Cut yarn leaving 6 in. end.

Weave the end through yarn needle.

Thread through all sts, sliding sts off of needles as you go.

Pull tightly and sew up.

Head:

CO 27 sts.

Divide between 3 dpns (9 sts per needle)

Inc 1 st at both ends of each dpn every other row 5 times.

K all sts until work measures 5 in.

Next round: Needle 1: BO 16 sts. k to end. Needle 2: k10, BO 9. Needle 3: BO 7 sts. k to end.

Continue working flat all sts on needle 3 in stockinette st as such (you will come back to needles 1 and 2 later):

Decrease 1 st at each edge every other row until there are 2 sts left.

BO all sts.

Reattach yarn to beginning of needle 1.

Work flat on needles 1 and 2 in stockinette st.

Decrease 1 st at each edge every other row until there are 3 sts left.

BO all sts.

Finishing:

Sew up the top of the head.

Stuff both the head and body (you should fill it up with more than you think).

Sew the head and body together at the neck.

Ciel's Dress Coat

2011-12-30T12:29:00.000-05:00

Wondering why it was taking me so long to post another pattern? This is why!
I was watching episode 3 of Black Butler and I saw this coat and decided I had to make it. It's a lot of work, but the end result is definitely worth it!

It didn't come out as nicely as I had hoped.

Materials:

-US size 7 (4.5 mm) straight and circular needles

-Bernat Satin yarn (3.5 oz per skein) in #04135 Loyal Royal (5 skeins, color A) and #04040 Ebony (1 skein, color B)
-Size H-8 crochet hook

-Yarn needle

-4 silver buttons

-2 chains

Abbreviations-

-st(s)- stitch(es)

-k- knit

-p- purl

-k2tog- knit 2 together

-CO- cast on

-BO- bind off

-m1- increase 1 st by picking up and knitting the bar in between the 2 sts

Gauge-

10 sts x 10 rows = 2.5 in. x 1.5 in.

Pattern notes:

-It is very important that you have access to an iron to do the blocking. I know, I don’t care much for blocking either, but if it is not done on this piece, it will come out all wonky.

-I used slightly smaller needles than was appropriate for the yarn weight so that the coat will be a bit thicker and more durable.

-The pattern is written for a size small, and I don’t really know how much to increase for a larger size, but I would imagine that it would be pretty easy to do.

-For better seams, do increases at least 2 sts in.

Left front:

CO 32 sts in color A.

Working in stockinette st, m1 at the end of every 10^th row.
Work until piece measures 13 in.
BO 5 sts at the end of the next purl row.
k2tog at each end every other row 4 times.
Work until piece measures 20 in.
BO all sts looseley.

Right front:

Work the same as left front, but reverse all shaping.

Back:

CO 64 sts in color A.
Working in stockinette st, m1 at both ends of every 10th row 6 times.
Work until piece measures 13 in.
BO 5 sts at the beginning of the next two rows.
k2tog at each end every other row 4 times.
Work until piece measures 20 in.
BO all sts loosely.

Sleeves:
CO 35 sts.
Working in stockinette st, m1 at both ends every 4th row 20 times.
Work until piece measures 15 in.
BO 5 sts at the beginning of the next 2 rows.
k2tog at each end every other row 4 times.
BO 3 sts at the beginning of the next 4 rows.
BO all sts.

At this point, you will need to block and sew together what you have already made.
For the sleeves, Sew up until about 4 inches before the cuff. Do a single crochet border using color B.

Skirt:

Pick up and knit 117 sts using color A.

Work in stockinette st.

Every 10^th row, do this row: k2, m1, k18, m1, k to last 20 sts, m1, k18, m1, k2 (Just in case this is not understood, if you’re on a purl row when it’s time to do this row, purl the sts that it says to knit.)

Repeat this 5 times, then BO 30 sts at the beginning of the next 2 rows.

Continue working in stockinette st.

Every 10^th row, do this row: k2, m1, k10, m1, k to last 12 sts, m1, k10, m1, k2

Repeat this 5 times, then BO 22 sts at the beginning of the next 2 rows.

Working in stockinette st, work 26 sts.

Turn work.

Decrease 1 st at each edge every other row until there are only 4 sts left.

BO all sts on that part of the tails.

Repeat this for the other half, starting with decreasing every other row.

Collar:

Starting at the beginning of the decreases for the neckline, pick up and knit 41 sts around the neck using color B.

Work in reverse stockinette st (in other words, on the side where the blue is on the right side, the wrong side will be there in order for the collar to be turned out) until piece measures 3 in.

Then, pick up and knit 25 sts at one end of the collar using color B.

Work in reverse stockinette st.

BO 1 st at the OUTER edge every other row 7 times.

Then, BO 2 sts at the outer edge every other row twice.

BO all sts.

Repeat on the other side from picking up 25 sts.

Finishing:

Sew up the sleeves up to 3 in from the cuff.

Using color B, work a single crochet border around the skirt and cuffs.

Attach 2 buttons on the front.

Place the chain on the front as a closure.

Zebra Hat

2011-12-05T09:23:00.001-05:00

This hat is exactly what the name implies: A hat in zebra print.

Materials:
-4.5 mm circular or double-pointed needles
-Red Heart Super Saver yarn in Zebra (1 skein)
-Yarn or tapestry needle

Abbreviations:
sts- stitches
CO- cast on
BO- bind off
k- knit
p- purl
k2tog- knit 2 together

Hat:
CO 60 sts.
Join in the round.
Work k1, p1 rib for 5 rounds.
k all sts until work measures 7.5 inches.
k2tog until there are only 15 sts left on the needle. (In other words, k2tog for 2 rounds.)
Cut the yarn, leaving an approximately 6 inch tail.
Thread the yarn through the tapestry needle and weave the tail through all the sts left.
Take the sts off the needle, pull the yarn tightly, and sew up the ends.

Pig Doll

2011-11-28T09:31:00.001-05:00

This is a knitted replica of Pig from the comic strip, Pearls Before Swine. I shall not post the pattern, for I do not want to rip off the awesome Stephan Pastis, but I will tell you that I used Red Heart Soft yarn in Dusty Rose.

This is my gorgeous friend, Taylor, holding her beloved Pig.

This is a close-up of the Pig doll, with my friend, Jo, wearing the Pagoda Glittens I gave her.

And there will also be a doll of Rat coming soon, too, although probably post-Christmas.

Pagoda Glittens

2011-11-28T09:26:00.001-05:00

These are really nice and warm. I must make some for myself.

Materials:
-4mm double pointed needles (set of 4)
-Caron Simply Soft yarn in Pagoda (1 skein)
-Yarn or tapestry needle

Gauge:
10 sts x 10 rows = 2.5 in x 1.5 in

Abbreviations:
sts- stitches
k- knit
p- purl
CO- cast on'
BO- bind off
yo- yarn over
m1- pick up and knit the bar in between the 2 sts
k2tog- knit 2 together
dpns- double-pointed needles

Glittens:
CO 27 sts.
Divide between 3 dpns.
Join in the round.
Work k1, p1 rib for 2 in.
Next round: Needle 1: k1, m1, k1, m1, k to end. Needle 2: k all sts. Needle 3: k to last 2 sts, m1, k1, m1, k1.
Next round: Needle 1: k all sts. Needle 2: k all sts. Needle 3: k all sts.
Repeat these 2 rounds once more.
On the final round, BO 2 sts at the end of needle 3.
Next round: Needle 1: BO 2 sts, k to end. Needles 2 and 3: k all sts.
Work as if you're working on straight needles for 4 more rows.
At the end of the 4th row, CO 2 sts at the end of needle 3.
Next round: Needle 1: CO 2 sts, k to end. Needles 2 and 3: k all sts.
K all sts until work measures
BO all sts.
Now, CO 15 sts onto 1 dpn.
Pick up and knit 18 sts onto another one.
Join in the round.
K all sts until work measures 7 in. from beginning of work.
Next round (Note: For other hand, reverse all shaping.): Needle 1: k to last 3 sts, k2tog, k1. Needle 2: k1, k2tog, k to end.
Next round: Needle 1: k all sts. Needle 2: k all sts.
Repeat these 2 rounds 2 more times.
Next round: Needle 1: k1, k2tog, k to end. Needle 2: k to last 3 sts, k2tog, k1.
Next round: Needle 1: k all sts. Needle 2: k all sts.
Next round: Needle 1: k1, k2tog, k to last 3 sts, k2tog, k1. Needle 2: As needle 1.
Next round: Needle 1: k all sts. Needle 2: k all sts.
Repeat the last 2 rounds 2 more times.
BO all sts.
Thumb:
Pick up and knit 14 sts around thumb hole.
Divide between 2 dpns.
Join in the round.
Round 1: Needle 1: k all sts. Needle 2: k all sts.
Work this round until work measures 3 in. or the length of your thumb.
Cut yarn, leaving a 6 in. end.
Thread yarn through yarn (or tapestry) needle.
Thread needle through all sts.
Take out dpns.
Pull tight and weave in your ends.

Finishing:
Sew up the top of the glitten.
Weave in your ends.

Cabled Fingerless Gloves

2011-11-23T09:06:00.001-05:00

These are a variation of the Ribby Fingerless Gloves.

Materials:
-4mm double pointed needles (set of 4)
-Red Heart Super Saver yarn in Burgundy
-Yarn or tapestry needle

Gauge: 10 sts x 10 rows = 2.5 in x 1.5 in

Abbreviations:
CO- cast on
BO- bind off
sts- stitches
k- knit
p- purl
sl- slip
m1- pick up and knit the bar in between the 2 sts
dpns- double pointed needles

Cable row: Needle 1: k to last 2 sts, p2. Needle 2: p1, sl 3 sts onto cable needle, k3 from needle 2, k3 from cable needle, p2. Needle 3: p1, k to end.

Gloves (make 2):

CO 27 sts.

Divide between 3 dpns.

Join in the round.

Work in k2, p2 rib for 1.5 in.

Next round: Needle 1: k1, m1, k1, m1, k to last 2 sts, p2. Needle 2: p1, k6, p2. Needle 3: p1, k to last 2 sts, m1, k1, m1, k1

Next round: Needle 1: k to last 2 sts, p2. Needle 2: p1, k6, p2. Needle 3: p1, k to end.

Next round: Needle 1: k1, m1, k1, m1, k to last 2 sts, p2. Needle 2: p1, k6, p2. Needle 3: p1, k to last 2 sts, m1, k1, m1, k1.

Work cable row.

Next round: Needle 1: k1, m1, k1, m1, k to last 2 sts, p2. Needle 2: p1, k6, p2. Needle 3: p1, k to last 2 sts, m1, k1, m1, k1.

Next round: Needle 1: k to last 2 sts, p2. Needle 2: p1, k6, p2. Needle 3: p1, k to end.

Repeat this row 3 more times.

Work cable row.

At the end of the cable row, BO 2 sts from the end of Needle 3.

Next round: Needle 1: BO 2 sts, k to last 2 sts, p2. Needle 2: p1, k6, p2. Needle 3: p1, k to end.

Now, work these rows as if they were on straight knitting needles, turning at the end of every row. Also, work the cable row every fifth row.

At the end of the fifth row, CO 2 sts on the end of Needle 3.

(Don’t forget to join it in the round again!)

Next round: Needle 1: CO 2 sts, k to last 2 sts, p2. Needle 2: p1, k6, p2. Needle 3: p1, k to end.

Next round: Needle 1: k to last 2 sts, p2. Needle 2: p1, k6, p2. Needle 3: p1, k to end.

Continue like this round and, every fifth round, work the cable row.

When the piece measures 5 in, work in k2, p2 rib again for 3 rounds.

BO all sts.

Ribby Fingerless Gloves

2011-11-23T08:32:00.001-05:00

These are some fingerless gloves for my uncle, whose hands are HUGE.

Materials:
-4mm double pointed needles (set of 4)
-Red Heart Soft yarn in Navy
-Yarn or tapestry needle

Gauge:
10 sts x 10 rows = 2.5 in x 1.5 in

Abbreviations:
k- knit
p- purl
sts- stitches
CO- cast on
BO- bind off
m1- make 1 st by picking up and knitting the bar in between 2 sts
rep- repeat

Gloves (make 2):
CO 27 sts between 3 needles.
Join in the round.
Work k2, p2 rib for 2 in.
Next round: Needle 1: k1, m1, k1, m1, k to end. Needle 2: k2, p1, k2, p1, k to end. Needle 3: k to last 2 sts, m1, k1, m1, k1
Rep this round every other row 3 times.
Next round: Needle 1: k all sts. Needle 2: k2, p1, k2, p1, k to end. Needle 3: k all sts.
Rep this round 4 times.
On the 4th round, BO 2 sts at the end of needle 3.
Next round: Needle 1: BO 2 sts, k to end: Needle 2: k2, p1, k2, p1, k to end. Needle 3: k all sts.
Work as if you were using straight needles, turning at the end of the row, and on the next row, k all the p sts and p all the k sts.
Work like this for 4 rows.
On the 4th row, CO 2 sts at the end of needle 3.
Next round: Needle 1: CO 2 sts, k to end. Needle 2: k2, p1, k2, p1, k to end. Needle 3: k all sts.
Next round: Needle 1: k all sts. Needle 2: k2, p1, k2, p2, k to end. Needle 3: k all sts.
Work this round until work measures 5 in.
Work in k2, p2 rib for 3 rounds.
BO all sts.

Berry Hat

2011-11-22T08:22:00.001-05:00

This is using the same kind of yarn I used to make the Berry Fun Scarf (which actually turned out to be quite an epic fail).

Materials:
-US size 10 (6 mm) circular needles (29 in)
-Lion Brand Homespun yarn in Baroque
-Tapestry needle

Abbreviations:
sts- stitches
k- knit
p- purl
k2tog- knit 2 together
CO- cast on
BO- bind off

Gauge: 10 sts x 10 rows = 3.5 in x 1.75 in

Instructions:
CO 62 sts.
Join in the round.
Work in k1, p1 rib for 12 rows.
K all sts until work measures 8 inches.
k2tog all sts until there are only 15 sts left.
BO all sts.

Finishing:
Sew up the top of the hat.
Weave in your ends.

Lacy Armwarmers

2011-11-21T08:16:00.001-05:00

This yarn is really expensive ($20 a skein!) but the experience is totally worth it.

Materials:
-1 skein Noro yarn in whatever color you so desire
-US size 8 (5mm) straight knitting needles
-Yarn or tapestry needle

Abbreviations:
CO- cast on
BO- bind off
k- knit
p- purl
sts- stitches
yo- yarn over
k2tog- knit 2 together
stockinette st- k1 row, p1 row
rep- repeat

Armwarmers (make the appropriate number for the number of arms you have):
CO 30 sts.
Work 2 rows in stockinette st.
Row 3: k3, * yo, k2tog twice, yo, k1 * rep from * to last 2 sts, k2
Row 4 and alternate rows: p all sts
Row 5: k3, * k2tog, yo, k1, yo, k2tog * rep from * to last 2 sts, k2
Work these 4 rows until work is long enough to go around your forearm.
BO all sts.

Finishing:
Sew up the seams and weave in your ends!

Orchid Scarf

2011-11-18T09:39:00.001-05:00

I just adore this scarf. I've made so many variations of this, but this is probably my favorite.

Materials:
-US size 10.5 (6.5 mm) straight knitting needles
-Red Heart Super Saver yarn in Dark Orchid
-Yarn or tapestry needle
-6.5 mm crochet hook (optional)

Abbreviations:
sts- stitches
CO- cast on
BO- bind off
k- knit
p- purl
sl- slip
rep- repeat

Instructions:
CO 20 sts.
Work in stockinette st for 6 rows.
Row 7: * k2, sl 1 * rep from * to last 2 sts, k2
Row 8: sl 1, * k2, sl 1* to last st, k1
Row 9: k1, sl 1 * k2, sl 1 * to end of row.
Rep rows 7-9 one more time.
Rep rows 1-12 until work measures 54 in. or desired length.
BO all sts.

Finishing:

Weave in your ends.

Checkerboard Hat

2011-11-18T09:24:00.001-05:00

This hat kind of matches the Checkerboard Scarf I made a while ago. But only a little. It's kind of like they're second cousins once-removed or something.

My cousin Jason!

Gauge:
10 sts x 10 rows = 3.5 in x 1.5 in

Materials:
-4.5 mm circular or double pointed needles
-Red Heart Super Saver yarn in Black
-Yarn or tapestry needle

Abbreviations:
sts- stitches
CO- cast on
BO- bind off
k- knit
p- purl
k2tog- knit 2 together
rep- repeat

Instructions:
CO 60 sts.
Join in the round.
Rounds 1-5: * k5, p5 * rep from * to end
Rounds 6-10: * p5, k5 * rep from * to end
Work rounds 1-10 until work measures 7.5 inches.
k2tog all sts until there are only 15 sts left.
BO all sts.

Finishing:
Sew up the top.
Weave in your ends.

Fuzzball Ornaments

2011-11-17T08:40:00.001-05:00

What's pink and fuzzy? Pink fuzz. What's blue and fuzzy? Pink fuzz holding its breath.
Anyway, I think this pattern might have changed a little bit in between making the pink ornament and the blue ornament, because I didn't write down the pattern for the pink one. I think they still turned out pretty well, all things considered.

Materials:
-4mm double-pointed needles (set of 4)
-Fuzzy yarn of any kind
-Yarn or tapestry needle
-Cotton or poly-blend stuffing
-One ornament hook for each ornament you are making

Abbreviations-
sts- stitches
k- knit
m1- make 1 st by picking up and knitting the bar in between the 2 sts
k2tog- knit 2 together
CO- cast on
BO- bind off
dpn- double-pointed needles

Instructions:
CO 9 sts.
Divide between 3 dpns.
Join in the round.
k all sts for one round.
Next round: Needle 1: k1, m1, k1, m1, k1. Needles 2 and 3: As needle 1.
Every other round, m1 st in between all sts until there are 31 sts on each needle, for a total of 93 sts.
Work 3 rounds k all sts.
Next round: Needle 1: * k2tog * to last st, k1. Needles 2 and 3: As needle 1.
k all sts for the next round.
Next round: Needle 1: k2tog all sts. Needles 2 and 2: As needle 1.
Repeat this round every other round until there are only 2 sts left on each needle.
BO all sts.

Finishing:
Stuff it and sew it up, leaving a small length of yarn on the bottom end.
Attatch it to the ornament hook.

Checkerboard Texture Scarf

2011-11-14T08:30:00.001-05:00

I have a LOT of this yarn, and a LOT of Christmas presents to make, so this scarf was born.

Materials:
-US size 10.5 (6.5 mm) straight knitting needles
-1 skein Red Heart Super Saver yarn in White Fleck
-Yarn or tapestry needle

Abbreviations:
sts- stitches
CO- cast on
BO- bind off
k- knit
p- purl
rep- repeat

Scarf:
CO 30 sts.
Rows 1-5: * k5, p5 * rep from * to end of row
Rows 6-10: * p5, k5 * rep from * to end of row
Rep rows 1-10 until work measures 57 inches.
BO all sts.

Finishing:
Weave in your ends.

Blue Wave Hat

2011-11-10T09:43:00.000-05:00

Teacher Appreciation Week starts November 14 and, as a member of the National Honor Society, I am to "adopt" a teacher or administrative officer for the week. I chose one of the custodians, and I am making a hat for him!

Materials:
-4.5mm circular or double pointed needles
-Red Heart Super Saver yarn in #984 Shaded Dusk
-Yarn or tapestry needle

Gauge:
10 sts x 10 rows = 3 in x 1.5 in

Abbreviations:
sts- stitches
CO- cast on
k- knit
p- purl
sl- slip st
k2tog- knit 2 together

Hat:
CO 60 sts.
Join in the round.
Work 6 rounds in k2, p2 rib.
Round 7: * k4, sl 1 * rep from * to end
Round 8 and alternate rounds: k all sts.
Round 9: k3, sl 1, * k4, sl 1 * rep from * to last st, k1
Round 11: k2, sl 1, * k4, sl 1 * rep from * to last 2 sts, k2
Round 13: k1, sl 1, * k4, sl 1 * rep from * to last 3 sts, k3
Round 15: sl 1, * k4, sl 1 * rep from * to last 4 sts, k4
Repeat rounds 7-16 until work measures 7.5 inches.
Decrease (k2tog) all sts until there are only 20 sts left.
Cut yarn, leaving 6 in. ends.
Thread the yarn through the tapestry needle and using the needle, take the yarn through all the sts left on the needle.
Slip all sts off the needle.
Pull the yarn tight.
Sew up the top.
Weave in the ends.