tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7439280580059223592023-11-16T03:00:28.524-05:00Dizzy Stitchin'Knitting, crochet, needlepoint, and contemplating the meaning of life. Or, y'know, just the first three.Dizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17004365231418421715noreply@blogger.comBlogger36125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743928058005922359.post-60083951936629636382017-02-05T19:59:00.001-05:002017-02-07T01:42:48.813-05:00Shut Up, Wesley!So, having made scarves for the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/270929622/hand-knit-star-trek-tng-scarf-adult-blue?ref=related-1" target="_blank">three colors</a> of TNG Starfleet uniforms, there was one very important uniform that I had left out. Today, I rectify that omission. I proudly present the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/506456347/wesley-crusher-star-trek-tng-uniform?ref=shop_home_active_19" target="_blank">Acting-Ensign Crusher</a> uniform scarf.<br />
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While certainly not the...prettiest...of color schemes, I rather enjoyed the straightforward simplicity of this design. Literally just straight rows of knitting. No mid-row color changes. No post-knitting embroidery to neaten up the diagonals. And fewer ends to weave in, which is always a plus.</div>
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I felt I had to include this design with my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/269908386/hand-knit-star-trek-tng-scarf-adult-gold?ref=shop_home_active_16" target="_blank">other Trekkie scarves</a>, because Wesley's uniform has become somewhat iconic amongst fans, despite being rather hideous. Keeping in mind that this was a sci-fi show from the '90s, and there were quite a few fashion atrocities throughout, it does seem that poor Wesley bears the brunt of them. I kind of wonder if Wil Wheaton did something at one point to piss off the costume designer...</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Poor kid...<br />
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Anyways, my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/270046715/hand-knit-startrek-tng-scarf-adult-red?ref=shop_home_active_18" target="_blank">TNG scarf collection</a> is now complete. And since my little Pup seemed so determined to try it on (while it was still on the needles -- I had to untangle her several times), I made her a mini-sized one of her very own. Daddy couldn't be happier.</div>
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Dizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17004365231418421715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743928058005922359.post-36726529059870599082017-01-08T07:04:00.001-05:002017-02-07T01:49:00.006-05:00Ponies!Soooo...given how pretty much awful this past year has been, how about we all just pretend it never happened and move forward, okay? Sounds good to me.<br />
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Despite all the bad mojo of 2016 (and sometimes, even because of it) I still managed to get a ton of knitting done. I'll be sharing some of those finished projects in the coming weeks, as well as those still on the go. Up first is a small collection that I've had in mind for a while, but just finally got around to making.</div>
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I've made "ear" hats before, but these had to wait for just the right combination of colors to show up in my stash. Add a bit of a fringe down the middle, and Boom! Pony hats!</div>
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My Little Pony has made quite the comeback in recent years, with a show, toys, and style that is popular with many adults, as well as kids. Not even joking, it's become so popular that they have their own convention. With enough attendees that their dancing was falsely recorded as a small earthquake. (Two or three years ago...look it up)</div>
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Anywhoo, these babies work up pretty fast, and I was able to whip up one for each of the six main (or mane, haha) characters: <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/505000289/gold-pony-hat-hand-knit-hat-with-ears?ref=shop_home_active_26" target="_blank">Applejack</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/491512144/white-pony-hat-hand-knit-hat-with-ears?ref=shop_home_active_25" target="_blank">Rarity</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/505000571/blue-pony-hat-hand-knit-hat-with-ears?ref=related-4" target="_blank">Rainbow Dash</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/505000449/purple-pony-hat-hand-knit-hat-with-ears?ref=related-5" target="_blank">Twilight Sparkle</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/504999609/pink-pony-hat-hand-knit-hat-with-ears?ref=related-7" target="_blank">Pinkie Pie</a>, and <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/491510352/yellow-pony-hat-hand-knit-hat-with-ears?ref=related-7" target="_blank">Fluttershy</a>. I'm even making a couple of <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/505215875/gray-pony-hat-hand-knit-hat-with-ears?ref=related-0" target="_blank">secondary characters</a>, and maybe then a few <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/491513574/custom-pony-hat-hand-knit-hat-with-ears?ref=related-5" target="_blank">custom colors</a> for fans who have invented characters of their own. Overall, it's a fun, quick project that keeps me interested because there are so many ponies to choose from, you never have to knit the same hat twice!</div>
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Dizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17004365231418421715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743928058005922359.post-91489761850001785222016-04-08T14:28:00.003-04:002017-02-07T01:51:08.819-05:00Trekkie Scarves!My dear husband Kishi is a total Trekkie. I still love him, though; no-one's perfect. Our entire relationship has pretty much been a battle between the Force and the Federation, and while I do love the cheesiness of the original 60's era Captain Kirk Trek, I'd still take the Millennium Falcon over the Enterprise any day. (I also proudly wear my Boba Fett shirt -- and helmet -- to Star Trek night with our friends, but that's mostly just to annoy them)<br />
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While I'm not an uber-fan myself, I have learned to take inspiration where I can find it, and Star Trek has certainly given me a few ideas. (The Bajorans on Deep Space 9 have some <i>gorgeous</i> knitted clothing, which I really want to pattern up...) Kishi is a real Next Generation fan, and the geometric pattern of their uniforms translates well into various knitted forms.</div>
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These scarves are recognizably Trekkie, but not "OMG, you're a nerd!" Trekkie. I actually rather like them. Of course, they come in <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/270046715/hand-knit-startrek-tng-scarf-adult-red?ref=shop_home_active_18" target="_blank">command red</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/269908386/hand-knit-star-trek-tng-scarf-adult-gold?ref=shop_home_active_16" target="_blank">engineering and security gold</a>, and <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/270929622/hand-knit-star-trek-tng-scarf-adult-blue?ref=shop_home_active_17" target="_blank">science and medical blue</a>. (I think I got those designations right...) Personally, I think I'll be keeping a blue one for myself. As Spock would say, "It's only logical."</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It took me a little longer than usual to get these finished, as I had to contend with what is probably a sprained thumb. (I fell off the couch...no lie)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Live long, prosper, and stay warm.</td></tr>
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In the end, I did three versions: a color-block (with and without the stripe) and a solid. Which do you prefer?</div>
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Dizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17004365231418421715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743928058005922359.post-70251532327364206552016-04-05T09:48:00.001-04:002017-02-05T20:02:47.732-05:00Dragons and Mermaids!I'm sure by now, almost everyone has seen the mermaid tail blankets that seem to be popping up all over the Internet. I must say, I think they are super adorable, and I want to be friends with whoever came up with the idea.<br />
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Well, a friend of mine came across the idea too and wanted one, and I was super stoked that she thought of me to make it.</div>
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She wanted one for her niece...and something for her nephew too. What to do? We talked about sharks, and a few other options, and settled on a dragon. Because what kid doesn't want to be a dragon, right?</div>
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So a mermaid and a dragon...what could be easier? Well, for starters, I couldn't find a pattern I liked. I know, I know, I was probably just being difficult. But I just didn't feel the "Oomph" from any of the patterns I came across.</div>
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So what do I do? Of course, I make my own. OMG, it takes so much math! In the end, though, it all worked out. And I even wrote it all down, so I can do it again, if I have to.</div>
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Really, I loved both these pieces so much, it hurt me to see them go...but I know the little ones they are meant for will enjoy them, so I'm also glad. </div>
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It took about two months of constant devotion, ignoring all other projects I had on the go, but I can honestly say that my first real commission was a resounding success. (At least, Auntie loved them...she'll be bringing them home soon!)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXsIH5S5G9jdNggbHeeHIEsNCom5LE-xklPZ5lPiBVsPoNuJLQiYnZ-ogcocg3pABUrJwjAQgpezH40Qun1-km0cMpifVIsNsvI6c9kyfMGbujWNi3bsxQPj2ycspkhgl-eweLbTp_pYQ/s640/blogger-image-1323951397.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXsIH5S5G9jdNggbHeeHIEsNCom5LE-xklPZ5lPiBVsPoNuJLQiYnZ-ogcocg3pABUrJwjAQgpezH40Qun1-km0cMpifVIsNsvI6c9kyfMGbujWNi3bsxQPj2ycspkhgl-eweLbTp_pYQ/s400/blogger-image-1323951397.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I promise to go into more detail on each of these gorgeous blankets later, but for now, I'm going to go launch myself into my next project. Allons-y!</div>
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Dizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17004365231418421715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743928058005922359.post-15797223519182806182016-03-23T00:23:00.005-04:002016-03-29T02:21:19.547-04:00Deconstruction!So, I decided I was finally ready to take a stab at reclaiming some yarn. Since it was my first time trying it out, I figured it might be easier to start with a chunkier weight until I get the technique down. I picked a dark charcoal cardigan that is a wonderfully soft cotton-acrylic blend, and may likely be reborn as a cowl. Plus, added bonus -- the sweater ended up being knit with two strands together, so twice the yardage!<br>
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Well, let's get to it, shall we?<br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhdtkpc4hxUAgWRAUpvV-t6bskzh4yYuGxsnUdVpUOY-uUrRC4B-0yQpVmkQOm6j0xVs6DvpHbJPW3C_2zmpzU5_Uy6kzbDnfVnl9XwZzc2tnSuLKV6Jf8unDn47_TrMeTRHnOhSHxmxg/s640/blogger-image--1194841721.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhdtkpc4hxUAgWRAUpvV-t6bskzh4yYuGxsnUdVpUOY-uUrRC4B-0yQpVmkQOm6j0xVs6DvpHbJPW3C_2zmpzU5_Uy6kzbDnfVnl9XwZzc2tnSuLKV6Jf8unDn47_TrMeTRHnOhSHxmxg/s320/blogger-image--1194841721.jpg" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A knit or crocheted seam is the winner</td></tr>
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First of all, when picking a sweater for reclaiming, one of the first things to look at are the seams. A knit or crocheted seam, like in the picture above, is what you're looking for. A machine-sewn seam, like the one below, won't do you any good because it means the material was cut, and you'll just end up with a bunch of short pieces of yarn when you unravel it. (Note: some garments have button bands or edges that cover the seams -- these can be a gamble, since you don't know what's underneath.)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ3Ii5AwPdmOC5FNrz2mw7kUdSrIY9LQ-ByceO0kKgBeJMfqCYGEwObYwWDYgAVJJjfMafYgS2N2wQ16uF45LaMFDTjl1BF5mwovC6th4ZF7lEn2CVlTObhN_pKeKf0gYd5eLr80nXx50/s640/blogger-image-839000867.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ3Ii5AwPdmOC5FNrz2mw7kUdSrIY9LQ-ByceO0kKgBeJMfqCYGEwObYwWDYgAVJJjfMafYgS2N2wQ16uF45LaMFDTjl1BF5mwovC6th4ZF7lEn2CVlTObhN_pKeKf0gYd5eLr80nXx50/s320/blogger-image-839000867.jpg" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anything machine sewn just won't work out well</td></tr>
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Another important thing to check is the tag -- that will tell you what the fibres are made of. Most clothing today is made from acrylic or other man-made materials. Acrylic yarn itself is fairly cheap, so it's up to you if you want to put in the time and effort to recycle it, or if the cost of the garment is worth it for the amount you'll get. Try to avoid anything with a lot of elastic fibres if you can...they're just a pain to knit with.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiCyBRYd26udfWrYT6vxGtqwjUMSg3taoyibFcUNvSPhSFuw_3OqgqP2FJpmn-PgiTqrrs-LNYBfRlP8DT_fHBI0g60HdX2KlenZli0keCKUj78G0GQtPxajwsiIhpIR6hjsCgY23p5xU/s640/blogger-image--898716056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiCyBRYd26udfWrYT6vxGtqwjUMSg3taoyibFcUNvSPhSFuw_3OqgqP2FJpmn-PgiTqrrs-LNYBfRlP8DT_fHBI0g60HdX2KlenZli0keCKUj78G0GQtPxajwsiIhpIR6hjsCgY23p5xU/s320/blogger-image--898716056.jpg" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sometimes (like here) the 1% lycra is a separate strand, which is easily removed when unraveled</td></tr>
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Personally, I went in hunting for natural fibres for the most part this time around, since they're usually beyond my price range, but I did pick up a couple of acrylic blends that were just too soft and wonderful to pass up. </div>
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Be sure to check the condition of the garment as well...any signs of moth damage means it's a no-go -- you do NOT want to risk the rest of your stash by bringing moths home, and the yarn is likely pretty damaged anyway. A small hole or repair isn't too bad, though you might end up with a few shorter lengths. Wool tends to felt together over time, so check for felting. Felted yarn won't unravel, so it's a waste of time and money. (Unless you're looking for felted material to use for sewing projects...but that's a whole other subject.)</div>
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Once you've got your sweater, the first step is to remove any tags or buttons that would get in the way, then find a seam and start dismantling it. Most seams would logically start at the bottom, or under the arms, or the end of a sleeve. Whoever was making this particular sweater may have been drinking that day, because it was really all over the place. (One sleeve started in the middle, and worked out to each end...?!?) A seam ripper might come in handy, or you could always help it along with scissors (as long as you're careful not to cut the material itself). Personally, I hang onto the lengths of yarn from the seams, in case I need them later for seaming or repairs, or just as scrap yarn.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjg_Tahq2uh7q1OtHEmPGBYYCX69WnjBD2JHXMaqvSHUi3E7uuMFYKZ0bx0xrObuOyHqeYtyAdanN_sZcfIK3gyuDKEdmNz6qAYqjX4NnKOXM35GRsE06FJrW4oR_plAdqaABEKibVCEY/s640/blogger-image--600851952.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjg_Tahq2uh7q1OtHEmPGBYYCX69WnjBD2JHXMaqvSHUi3E7uuMFYKZ0bx0xrObuOyHqeYtyAdanN_sZcfIK3gyuDKEdmNz6qAYqjX4NnKOXM35GRsE06FJrW4oR_plAdqaABEKibVCEY/s320/blogger-image--600851952.jpg" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is what a sweater looks like after it's been taken apart</td></tr>
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Once you've dismantled all the pieces, we get to the fun part: unraveling! Now, there's no rule saying you can't unravel as you go, but I wanted to show you what it would look like all taken apart.<br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWtye4gv5Zi-5ThLsP3UZsbjOiIrnuUGIsDhZAg5qO9FjnxBMa2IrA930fTGiBKzvvOeqm1QXm4t2Kx2Y0EBTL-TOsCuSEC0dsqR6QkfuCuiDIgobYrMnDZw9zSQbYZgOYajue5b1y5Uk/s640/blogger-image-1093331810.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWtye4gv5Zi-5ThLsP3UZsbjOiIrnuUGIsDhZAg5qO9FjnxBMa2IrA930fTGiBKzvvOeqm1QXm4t2Kx2Y0EBTL-TOsCuSEC0dsqR6QkfuCuiDIgobYrMnDZw9zSQbYZgOYajue5b1y5Uk/s320/blogger-image-1093331810.jpg" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Most pieces unravel from the top (this is the top of the sleeve)</td></tr>
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Once you start unraveling, you'll notice the yarn tends to hold its kink. Some people wind the yarn loosely into hanks, leave it to soak for a bit, and then hang it to dry with a weight at one end...but I don't have time for that today. (Or the equipment...yet) So for the interim, I'm just winding it into temporary cakes. I cut a slit in the end of a toilet-paper tube, slipped in the end of yarn, and started winding. <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">One day soon, I will have a ball-winder to do this for me, but for now, it works. (Also, shoutout to Kishi for the idea to use the TP roll!) One nifty tip would be to keep the tags from the sweater and pin them onto the yarn -- that way, you know what it is, and have the washing instructions handy!</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgbX2T6VBEc05bER2nhA4v0ILwK6aiF83h6vPTx2wddKWNS4YhPjAtL09-CvMSTuTBUAqa7Erc5N8pKZf-I-r_DYdmrxBUW0dkWTETMuI05OYSA36RT40tC-8vBDTgY8dXfCNaXVqfx_8/s640/blogger-image--1150824929.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgbX2T6VBEc05bER2nhA4v0ILwK6aiF83h6vPTx2wddKWNS4YhPjAtL09-CvMSTuTBUAqa7Erc5N8pKZf-I-r_DYdmrxBUW0dkWTETMuI05OYSA36RT40tC-8vBDTgY8dXfCNaXVqfx_8/s320/blogger-image--1150824929.jpg" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These balls are HEAVY! First trial: Success!</td></tr>
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So from this one sweater, I got these three hefty cakes of yarn. Eventually, I'll get around to weighing them, getting the yardage, and winding them properly...but my arm is tired. So for now, I'm just going to caress them softly while muttering "Precious!" every so often, while Kishi eyes me with more and more concern.<br>
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Goodnight, Precious...<br>
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Dizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17004365231418421715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743928058005922359.post-83369390782823489602016-03-08T02:20:00.001-05:002017-02-07T01:52:33.914-05:00Time for Spring!I don't know about you, but I am NOT a winter person. If I could realistically hibernate, I would. I don't like the cold, the snow in the city just looks grey, and getting anywhere at all is just a nightmare. So, now that the weather has lightened up for a bit, I am more than ready to get into the Springtime mood.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4iBkXgfxsKr8_i1m5O8cJ4S7W8P7MR64g8FkcIYK8cCLoiLVQsswN02uL9o9uxkRkLqZk20gZn_OMMbtLC3Yfosn35mGP-4R7WgcOm0WA_re_A_NifnUuzpGIaOQaPkyREXD8lkA5JpQ/s640/blogger-image-1205067762.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4iBkXgfxsKr8_i1m5O8cJ4S7W8P7MR64g8FkcIYK8cCLoiLVQsswN02uL9o9uxkRkLqZk20gZn_OMMbtLC3Yfosn35mGP-4R7WgcOm0WA_re_A_NifnUuzpGIaOQaPkyREXD8lkA5JpQ/s320/blogger-image-1205067762.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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I spotted a scarf like this a while back, but couldn't find it again...so I took a guess at how it was done, and <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/270594998/sakura-cherry-blossom-multi-strand-cowl?ref=shop_home_active_9" target="_blank">this</a> is what I came up with. I used some of the pink yarn I had left over from <a href="http://dizzystitchin.blogspot.ca/2015/11/baby-hearts.html" target="_blank">Arya's sweater</a>, and stitched on a little Sakura blossom (I seem to have a fixation on them right now...they're just so pretty and spring-like!) </div>
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I love the way the flower turned out, though it was a bit fiddly to stitch the petals together. I made each one separately and sewed them to the centre, then stitched the whole thing to the scarf. Next time, I might try to find a way to do the whole thing as one, but I might need to work on my crochet skills to manage it. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLD1c2VdSsiHJmEND86Gs-f80Ckpw5Ex7U2fwXlp6X4Vm1DtmLx1X6HIx707o0ogQ4-sa8AmTOasF-PDhFdeF-S1D569GX7Lg5G2Q3nXgMPZDXH9_EL1NOaMv2EltdVuS4jPNeRcsrnNA/s640/blogger-image--52169885.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLD1c2VdSsiHJmEND86Gs-f80Ckpw5Ex7U2fwXlp6X4Vm1DtmLx1X6HIx707o0ogQ4-sa8AmTOasF-PDhFdeF-S1D569GX7Lg5G2Q3nXgMPZDXH9_EL1NOaMv2EltdVuS4jPNeRcsrnNA/s320/blogger-image--52169885.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I loved making this so much, I did a second one in the raspberry pink, with a little <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/286220429/rose-blossom-multi-strand-cowl-spring?ref=related-7" target="_blank">rose blossom</a>. I also had a great idea to make one in green, with a shamrock for St Patty's Day...but I only got the idea <i>on</i> St Pat's...so maybe soon I'll have it done.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv7jwv_2MarMzV3K-gflcXriw4ewSYZpwatbci4m6Jw5jS4FTPCY8uS69xOTuSw_vNI8JOmMFhmhyMOasG0Ft8NradjUdkWgwkB89xq2Utqcl_FpXXCZmq-Nl0mLiimj1DwxxRDth2Wes/s640/blogger-image-1323100912.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv7jwv_2MarMzV3K-gflcXriw4ewSYZpwatbci4m6Jw5jS4FTPCY8uS69xOTuSw_vNI8JOmMFhmhyMOasG0Ft8NradjUdkWgwkB89xq2Utqcl_FpXXCZmq-Nl0mLiimj1DwxxRDth2Wes/s320/blogger-image-1323100912.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It's lovely and light, knit in DK, and definitely makes me feel like spring is on its way. Eventually. Though being Canada, I don't put away my winter wear until June...</div>
Dizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17004365231418421715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743928058005922359.post-67599063173588394562016-03-05T07:22:00.001-05:002016-03-23T00:35:58.262-04:00Upcycling!One idea I've been toying with for a little while is recycling -- or upcycling -- yarn. I'd first heard the practice mentioned in a post on Facebook ages ago (before that handy "save post" feature). When I read "recycled/reclaimed yarn", I immediately pictured some ugly homemade sweater that someone's great-aunt knit them and they donated asap. Why would someone want to reuse ugly, scratchy wool? I thought.<br />
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It slowly dawned on me, as I saw more and more posts and links popping up on my feed -- there might just be something to this after all. So I checked out a few blogs and how-to's, and I came to see how limited my thinking was. Don't get me wrong...no-one wants to repurpose Great-Aunt Sally's technicolor steel-wool monstrosity. </div>
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But a $5 sweater might just get you several hundred yards of cashmere. Or silk. Or angora. Or who knows what else. I had never even considered factory-knit garments. Duh! They tell you right on the tag what's in 'em! And there are entire aisles of knitwear just waiting to be rifled through at the thrift store.</div>
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So, having done a little research, I optimistically headed out to Value Village with a vague, half-baked plan. (But really...do I ever have any other kind?) My basic goal was to see just what kind of fibres I'd be able to net...and I gave myself a budget of $50.</div>
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For $50, you might be able to get a couple of decent skeins -- or one <i>really</i> good one -- from your local yarn shop. Or you could get several cheap ones from WalMart. (Not to knock those of us knitters on a budget, of course) But let's take a look at what $50 got me.</div>
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After two or three hours of fondling most of the garments they had to offer and finally weeding down my selections, this is what I ended up with. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOu_lN5oYo1BsyFM_X9zl7IothSsKRf07QYHTP7G4TEo_F3gKdMhV_97JdUY8uZwt3lQlYb2EFN_BfmmWGw6gxTCj4NV3zAV5nsOc9zllKt5YlHjeHQpUwt7-TP7gzJOTusPbMpvt2Xx8/s640/blogger-image--1782421800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOu_lN5oYo1BsyFM_X9zl7IothSsKRf07QYHTP7G4TEo_F3gKdMhV_97JdUY8uZwt3lQlYb2EFN_BfmmWGw6gxTCj4NV3zAV5nsOc9zllKt5YlHjeHQpUwt7-TP7gzJOTusPbMpvt2Xx8/s320/blogger-image--1782421800.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These sweaters are all SO soft!</td></tr>
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And, for another $50, I also got these. Like I said, half-baked plan...thankfully, there was a 30% off deal, so I really only went $20 over budget. Thirteen sweaters!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I can never find metallic yarn in the colors I want, but I CAN find sweaters!</td></tr>
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Totally worth it, though. I scored a great assortment of angora, merino, a bit of alpaca blend, some mohair...and a gorgeous cashmere! (They had another as well, but the color kind of reminded me of vomit...) Plus I nabbed a couple of sparkly blends, because I love sparkles and I can never find any in the colors I want. And they all feel so soft and squishy!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Everyone collects something. My collection just happens to be somewhat grotesquely beautiful.</td></tr>
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So here's my first haul, ready and waiting to be ripped apart and given new life. Oh, and I also found a new mask for my collection! (I hang them in the bathroom to make my friends uncomfortable when they come over -- because I love them)</div>
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Right now, I think I'll just sit for a bit. And try not to think about going back for another load just yet...</div>
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Dizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17004365231418421715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743928058005922359.post-52807070791139376412016-02-24T01:43:00.001-05:002017-02-07T01:56:20.741-05:00Use the Force!So this is an idea that popped into my head a while ago, that I have been just <i>dying</i> to get on the needles: <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/269907248/hand-knit-star-wars-jedi-lightsaber?ref=shop_home_active_20" target="_blank">lightsaber scarves</a>. I was amazed that I couldn't find any patterns online, so I had to make up my own. Finding the right yarn was a little tough, since I often shop online and it can be difficult to find <i>just</i> the right colors. (As a hardcore fan, anything less than perfection is unacceptable.)<br />
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My first trial was Qui-Gon Jinn's 'saber from Episode 1, which has always been one of my favourites for its simplicity of style. I wasn't sure at first about the lime green for the blade -- on its own, it looks rather yellow -- but it actually worked perfectly and I love it. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOVFN2MDVSg8L5ey6t9zEF76e-hz7ewZqILFTTBBZk5g6gG48-k-JzIwcDiilCgsgH8sBLg9kFMESZge5rUHsV4Ml6N9bVh9giQVcR6skd9dUQ5xEmCMvHmZe0nQcOGQzgx92iGrDNyHI/s640/blogger-image-1889804440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOVFN2MDVSg8L5ey6t9zEF76e-hz7ewZqILFTTBBZk5g6gG48-k-JzIwcDiilCgsgH8sBLg9kFMESZge5rUHsV4Ml6N9bVh9giQVcR6skd9dUQ5xEmCMvHmZe0nQcOGQzgx92iGrDNyHI/s320/blogger-image-1889804440.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I wish I'd had this finished in time for Episode VII</td></tr>
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Since most of the hilt ends are done in more than one color, it is very important to remember to wrap the new color under the other on the wrong side (back) before continuing the row, or else you will end up with gaps where the colors switch.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG7yf6U-H82-kL0Q4yKZbB6FUHH2YoirAesLpA6UcyHLY3u5ZUpmCYzmaePTiXSemE6FwhWDo_XbmQt5XkxcOOAmh35fc0uEsJ1wNjJf1JKvlfCa8XF183ZZwtFLFM01Mk4qIHhRxV3to/s640/blogger-image--155690072.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG7yf6U-H82-kL0Q4yKZbB6FUHH2YoirAesLpA6UcyHLY3u5ZUpmCYzmaePTiXSemE6FwhWDo_XbmQt5XkxcOOAmh35fc0uEsJ1wNjJf1JKvlfCa8XF183ZZwtFLFM01Mk4qIHhRxV3to/s320/blogger-image--155690072.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Note the black is looped around the grey, to hold it together</td></tr>
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I embroidered over the edges of the black to give it a cleaner line, and the red button is just a simple little bubble (popcorn) stitch -- cast on 2, kfb in both, k2tog twice, k2tog again, then pull the tail through that last stitch and sew it on. Voila!</div>
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As soon as my computer is back in the land of the living, I'll be patterning this baby up on Ravelry. I <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">also have patterns in the works for just about every other lightsaber in the movies, as well: Obi-Wan's, Luke's, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/491985074/hand-knit-star-wars-lightsaber-scarf?ref=shop_home_active_21" target="_blank">Vader's</a>, even Darth Maul. Plus, it's easy to customize any color "blade" (Kishi wants me to do a pink one for our little Pup), if you want to get all wild and crazy. Kylo Ren's might take some extra creativity, though...I think I'll just stick to the first six movies for now.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">*Also, for those interested, I do sell these and other designs through my Etsy shop, which is now open! Find me at <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/DizzyStitchin">https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/DizzyStitchin</a> * </span></div>
Dizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17004365231418421715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743928058005922359.post-86092804913383384342016-02-23T14:44:00.001-05:002016-03-23T00:46:42.297-04:00Squishy Mail!Have you ever come up with a great design and wanted to cast on immediately? But you don't have the right yarn for it, so you have to wait until you can afford to order it? Then you order it, but you have to wait for it to arrive? <br />
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THEN IT FINALLY ARRIVES AND YOU'RE SO EXCITED YOU RIP THE BOX OPEN AND GRAB YOUR NEEDLES AND GET STARTED RIGHT AWAY? </div>
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This is me today.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I literally just opened the box 20 minutes ago. Excited? I think so!</td></tr>
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I have been waiting for weeks to be able to test out this idea for a pattern, and my happiness level right now is off the charts (haha, knitting joke...). I kind of feel bad for all my other projects, which will now have to wait just a bit longer to be finished. But I've got a box load of new yarn here just begging me to use it...</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the first times I've ordered yarn with <i>specific</i> projects in mind</td></tr>
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That right there is sixteen 8oz balls of worsted, my friends. It's looking like it's gonna be a long night. (But TOTALLY worth it!)</div>
Dizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17004365231418421715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743928058005922359.post-6302747800510479302016-02-05T05:36:00.001-05:002017-02-07T01:57:10.363-05:00Experiments!<div>
This post is long overdue, and has been sitting in my drafts for about two weeks now. What was supposed to be a post-holiday break for relaxation and me-knitting...well, it kinda got away from me. First of all, Arya has gone from just learning to crawl to trying to walk in about a week and a half -- and is like a hurricane blowing through my living room. Then, all of us got sick, which was no fun. Plus, my computer decided to up and die on me, so I'm stuck updating from my iPad (hence the lack of formatting...apologies). Anyways, there hasn't been a whole lot of time for knitting, but I've been doing what I can.</div>
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Still, I did manage to get another <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/288361919/fiery-red-zig-zag-scarf-100-wool-hand?ref=shop_home_active_12" target="_blank">Zig-Zag Scarf</a> off the needles, and I absolutely love the colors of this one. A fiery mix of purple, red and orange, I have kept with my impromptu scheme and dubbed this one "Thor on Fire". It made me giggle. I wanted something that didn't require a lot of thinking or pattern reading, and this is a super easy go-to for me. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I want to make <i>all the things</i> in this yarn</td></tr>
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I've been putting in a few rows here and there on a few experiments, as well. I say experiments because, well, I really have nothing but a vague idea going in that I play around with until it turns into something I'm satisfied with. This one is a cotton scarf done in fan and feather, on a diagonal. Because apparently I feel I should be doing more math with my knitting. (A twelve stitch pattern, over four rows, two increases per repeat...carry the one...divide by zero...)</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love the colors of this yarn -- called "Hydrangea"</td></tr>
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I'm also working on a cardigan for myself, but the pattern itself is in French, so it's slow going since I need to translate the terms used as I go. So far it's turning out great, though! </div>
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On the plus side, I've got a ton of new designs and patterns sketched out, so as long as I can keep up a steady stream of new yarn into my stash (is that ever REALLY a problem?) I'll have a bunch of new stuff to share with you all soon!</div>
Dizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17004365231418421715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743928058005922359.post-59732240110177264792016-01-10T20:57:00.001-05:002016-01-19T11:38:21.151-05:00Patterns Going Live!Between working on the various projects I've got on the go (I recently came down with a mild case of start-itis) I have also been busy designing some new patterns and writing up some of my older ones. It's taken me a bit longer than I'd hoped, especially with a teething baby who insists on attaching herself to me <i><b>at all times</b></i>. They will be available for download through Ravelry, so feel free to look me up there as DizzyStitchin. <div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOXw3UBHlF-8LqPtc2wyHzuUd3vxASE2amgqFb2Wy2z1w7R-u4Ed26qJS1YfE8dwnuL2tvPiT0Of0FX2Myn47-XoSUtx2KbbgzVwSWZe1rjUEe9PxXpbMZiaPcAJWtRMVE30jVahdvemM/s640/blogger-image-1393026150.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOXw3UBHlF-8LqPtc2wyHzuUd3vxASE2amgqFb2Wy2z1w7R-u4Ed26qJS1YfE8dwnuL2tvPiT0Of0FX2Myn47-XoSUtx2KbbgzVwSWZe1rjUEe9PxXpbMZiaPcAJWtRMVE30jVahdvemM/s640/blogger-image-1393026150.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Over the next few months, I will also be working on opening an Etsy shop that will feature some of my finished projects for sale (those I can bring myself to part with, anyways). It'll take a while to get everything up and running, but bear with me. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2DQmVKGeS_J2li9vYOxGZ9eET290w7sO-lih0NeJlNTI-TljJW0iLJt7_QcvvXFYoIUn-18dlqXkmsSigjoJyUS31cKxbOkRwRjae03b3p555zMvB2pyFauh1ed9M3moJO5hyW3OXv80/s640/blogger-image--40458672.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2DQmVKGeS_J2li9vYOxGZ9eET290w7sO-lih0NeJlNTI-TljJW0iLJt7_QcvvXFYoIUn-18dlqXkmsSigjoJyUS31cKxbOkRwRjae03b3p555zMvB2pyFauh1ed9M3moJO5hyW3OXv80/s640/blogger-image--40458672.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>In the meantime, my needles are busy juggling a scarf, a tunic, a sweater, two shawls, and a poncho...not to mention all the ideas I've got bouncing around still waiting to be cast on. Those extra needle sets I got myself for Christmas are sure getting a workout! My birthday is coming up, so I think I may be gifting myself some new yarn...which may also be what my dear hubby has hinted at giving me. Either way, I see a whole lot more knitting ahead this year! </div>Dizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17004365231418421715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743928058005922359.post-3641761593034660072015-12-29T01:31:00.001-05:002015-12-29T01:31:09.200-05:00Christmas(-ish) Shawl!Every year, I get myself an Advent calendar. It's a tradition I've hung onto since I was a kid. I don't always eat the chocolate each day -- sometimes I'll leave it for a few days, then eat five or six or twelve at a time to catch up. One year, I got the calendar on Christmas Eve, so I just ate the whole thing at once...but I digress.<br />
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Anyways, I decided to get myself a different kind of Advent calendar this year (in addition to the chocolate Avengers one I already got). It's a knit-along <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/advent-kalendar" target="_blank">Advent KALendar</a>. Basically, each day leading up to Christmas, they release another little chunk of the pattern, so that by Christmas, you have a finished project. I thought this was a super cute idea.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 1</td></tr>
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You don't get to see the finished design until the end, so there's a bit of trust involved when getting into one of these. <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/designers/anna-dalvi" target="_blank">Anna Dalvi</a>, who designed the shawl, has some very lovely designs, so it was a leap of faith I was more than willing willing to take. Plus, the inspiration for the designs comes from two of the Slavic goddesses, and I'm a sucker for mythology.</div>
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With all of the other projects I've had on the go, plus all the regular Christmas preparations like shopping and wrapping, plus the baby...well, I knew that I wouldn't be able to keep up with the pattern releases and be finished by Christmas, and it takes considerably longer to knit up even a few rows than to eat a dozen or so little chocolates. Still, starting late is better than not starting at all.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 2</td></tr>
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I've managed to avoid the Ravelry forums for the KALendar so far, since I don't want to ruin the surprise for myself as everyone shows off their work, but from what I've managed to get finished, it's going to look fantastic. There's little picots along the edge, which is a new skill for me, and I'm working it in red and black, to go with most of my fancier outfits. I'm also thinking of adding some beadwork to it when I'm done, but I'll figure that part out later.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 3</td></tr>
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Wishing you all the best for whatever holidays you're celebrating this time of year, and I hope you have had a chance to relax and enjoy yourselves!</div>
Dizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17004365231418421715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743928058005922359.post-55198096824362039362015-12-20T15:00:00.000-05:002017-02-07T02:00:02.786-05:00Pom-Poms!I'm a total sucker for unusual and novelty yarns. Sometimes you find a yarn that just calls to you, even though you have no idea what you're going to do with it. I found such a yarn, in many colors, and it sat in my stash for months. Then, suddenly, inspiration struck. Basically, I had Christmas gifts to give, and a whole lot of yarn to use.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pom-Poms for all!</td></tr>
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When I first bought this yarn, I bought a whack-load of it. I'm pretty sure that's the technical term. The cashier was a knitter herself, but even though she thought it was "so neat", she had no idea what to do with the yarn I chose. Hopefully, she finds this blog and gets a few...because I've come up with several.</div>
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Most commercial yarns come with a pattern on their labels...generally something basic, like a scarf. I took that idea and got a bit more creative with it. <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">This yarn gives a lot of creative leeway, once you learn how to work with it. Keeping in mind it called for a US9 needle, I just sort of let my intuition guide my work from there.</span></div>
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The first work was a cowl and matching headband. The cowl was worked eight Poms wide, 52 rows long, and the headband was four Poms wide, 42 rows long. Each was twisted, and then sewn together to give it a mobius shape. It's a great style for the younger crowd, or the more fashion-forward. My sister Naomi has that sort of "it's-quirky-but-it-totally-works" kind of style, and she was the first one I thought of when I came up with this design.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifAc5o_TsQLzpU8cBwNzNQJWtLr5WiU2AKi44dtodO2Ic8QND0cosTQMGz5aqkQcc_tnwhM4d7cGfhH1WwVhLYC49Y5C9nGbW-7dQXJZgjT60datfxcFTdkOt2fAexU9MbZ7R8XE3xyl8/s1600/IMG_0863.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifAc5o_TsQLzpU8cBwNzNQJWtLr5WiU2AKi44dtodO2Ic8QND0cosTQMGz5aqkQcc_tnwhM4d7cGfhH1WwVhLYC49Y5C9nGbW-7dQXJZgjT60datfxcFTdkOt2fAexU9MbZ7R8XE3xyl8/s320/IMG_0863.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The pinks in this just screamed Naomi</td></tr>
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To get the mobius shape, it <i>would</i> have been possible to knit the whole thing in the round, simply twisting the stitches once before joining, but the finished piece would have had no give to it. Since a bit of elasticity is good in this sort of thing, I opted to go through the extra step of sewing it together later, in order to get the proper fit.</div>
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The second work was a more <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/506449551/pink-pompom-scarf-no-knot-self-tying?ref=related-2" target="_blank">classic scarf</a>, seven Poms wide. A hole was worked into the design 40 rows in, so <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/506448671/blue-pompom-scarf-no-knot-self-tying?ref=related-2" target="_blank">the scarf</a> could be looped through itself, without having to be tied. Another great style, which doesn't have to sacrifice function for form. One great advantage to this pattern is its simplicity to use -- my mother-in-law suffers from arthritis, so not having to tie and untie a knot is much simpler. Also, I'm rather lazy, so I made <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/491947196/brown-pompom-scarf-no-knot-self-tying?ref=related-3" target="_blank">one of these</a> for myself. All you have to do is bind off the six middle stitches (keeping four on either side) after 40 rows, which is 20 rows of Poms on each side (counting your cast-on as the first row). Then, on the next row, cast on those six stitches again, and just keep knitting till the end of the yarn. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAwPT8uQwT0Wj9XpqwGU_iEIG15BL4hfvHeFpDlOQAPafna-ePSEhQdyH4N_ziM3l4Iw3Q6rrqdheJmnTMLPiLGD6_2Gs9dHzQd-j9XE3cLa8U3yTM8Uy40YP4Um4SA0nMD8RPKk4A5IA/s1600/IMG_0857.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAwPT8uQwT0Wj9XpqwGU_iEIG15BL4hfvHeFpDlOQAPafna-ePSEhQdyH4N_ziM3l4Iw3Q6rrqdheJmnTMLPiLGD6_2Gs9dHzQd-j9XE3cLa8U3yTM8Uy40YP4Um4SA0nMD8RPKk4A5IA/s320/IMG_0857.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A no-knot scarf -- perfect for anyone on your list!</td></tr>
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Knitting with the Pom-Poms is a bit of a trick -- basically, you knit two stitches between each Pom, one just before, and one just after. You start with a stitch just before a Pom, and you end with a stitch just after one. So, if you're knitting a scarf, for example, seven Poms wide, you'd have fourteen stitches in total. Once you get the hang of it, the yarn knits up rather quick. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGo7lHNqWKtqLrnwbhZTkNPJ6dGDYMqsZvwtAsldV4i1sW9DqvtP8Dd58BD9FQbjwdpTY8m-o5N1_G42PJaSvc0RImAtbFmn8LerVlHv79CxF5kQBFKCNDhpl5nKCtrlWyqFuSfpvB16M/s1600/IMG_0630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGo7lHNqWKtqLrnwbhZTkNPJ6dGDYMqsZvwtAsldV4i1sW9DqvtP8Dd58BD9FQbjwdpTY8m-o5N1_G42PJaSvc0RImAtbFmn8LerVlHv79CxF5kQBFKCNDhpl5nKCtrlWyqFuSfpvB16M/s320/IMG_0630.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These Poms are so soft, I just love it!</td></tr>
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I was working on one of these at the doctor's office, and an older lady stopped by to watch. She'd seen the yarn in stores, but wondered what it would look like knitted up. We sat and chatted for a bit, and I gave her a couple of tips. It made me think that, when I'm knitting things for my own grandkids, I hope I still have that urge to learn something new. And hopefully, there will be lots more interesting yarns to work with!</div>
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Dizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17004365231418421715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743928058005922359.post-27328440624768594552015-12-15T22:36:00.003-05:002015-12-15T22:36:54.946-05:00Phew!So, in my frenzy of preparing all my hand-knit goodies for Christmas, I forgot one major mistake in my scheduling. I did not, in fact, need them ready for Christmas...I needed them ready for our family and friends get-together -- which was this past Saturday.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-0Sk8oZ4jID3RIDQbSuayfidZKHcuAVXiMR4wWGSErOioWj50RN6LzxRHy9bSd4XkZRu-RWiLr6dFzfWwQpONgOe-6hi7wdT0p1eJkRH4o6jofs7o7rdnFXKJNkXUtCjbBgu_Kmu7KN4/s1600/IMG_0857.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-0Sk8oZ4jID3RIDQbSuayfidZKHcuAVXiMR4wWGSErOioWj50RN6LzxRHy9bSd4XkZRu-RWiLr6dFzfWwQpONgOe-6hi7wdT0p1eJkRH4o6jofs7o7rdnFXKJNkXUtCjbBgu_Kmu7KN4/s320/IMG_0857.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A no-knot scarf -- just pull the end through the hole!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUd0d_4Ll4nLL7XrP-IgAqfpCOfOvC8YHs3PRNsRdcr60KLoKuvQ3sIfeM63po79RA9Mfty1orX2NJNid5FfCaINqVKuRAojgUImSF91NGIzU912aB9-PS2Cgf8jNlf7n7dgJuwW9sz7U/s1600/IMG_0859.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUd0d_4Ll4nLL7XrP-IgAqfpCOfOvC8YHs3PRNsRdcr60KLoKuvQ3sIfeM63po79RA9Mfty1orX2NJNid5FfCaINqVKuRAojgUImSF91NGIzU912aB9-PS2Cgf8jNlf7n7dgJuwW9sz7U/s320/IMG_0859.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love this yarn, it looks like confetti exploded all over it</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5okQlRDXy5-e2FAogdwVzfo5lpess35f4_A0DETIejlllpqVstBUYx7I2rqtW2KsmDowRjOCmGIdL8-Yp_w_svBOWG0twkr2QWa6RuPjRoDvcj2joKwfmFi4Yn4LD-Pz3jmKTyKX70po/s1600/IMG_0863.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5okQlRDXy5-e2FAogdwVzfo5lpess35f4_A0DETIejlllpqVstBUYx7I2rqtW2KsmDowRjOCmGIdL8-Yp_w_svBOWG0twkr2QWa6RuPjRoDvcj2joKwfmFi4Yn4LD-Pz3jmKTyKX70po/s320/IMG_0863.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A twisted cowl and matching headband</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9ZU59LiP2yONsbjTXqF-BGg4wcaJ4nNZeYqgt6xlby7EkeJNVXSYtzO7WDqf1Ms2t5t0LX2e433sWOOY30Hk5VeshSx0wzpwqavYUEqr2smyAtPRDnKPZ6SH_qyZcAwwXUtOBngwQM00/s1600/IMG_0860.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9ZU59LiP2yONsbjTXqF-BGg4wcaJ4nNZeYqgt6xlby7EkeJNVXSYtzO7WDqf1Ms2t5t0LX2e433sWOOY30Hk5VeshSx0wzpwqavYUEqr2smyAtPRDnKPZ6SH_qyZcAwwXUtOBngwQM00/s320/IMG_0860.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hats of every size!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgShKblGnjWtEBCpVI_SzKS6XdJARObzFAFLXb3Gw6NgK7gNNmCwBx3zYBdTH1SpBP487Gel4V_-7sM7fiMiOHlH2nOVPrz8xKFfeg3inFokdnmCcxZipRxP38OSW8MbhjWN95Ys5KXG5Q/s1600/IMG_0869.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgShKblGnjWtEBCpVI_SzKS6XdJARObzFAFLXb3Gw6NgK7gNNmCwBx3zYBdTH1SpBP487Gel4V_-7sM7fiMiOHlH2nOVPrz8xKFfeg3inFokdnmCcxZipRxP38OSW8MbhjWN95Ys5KXG5Q/s320/IMG_0869.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So...much...knitting...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRTRGHvEGKU1jVVr7TEhW7dH5qT_ijtkQX3vD9m-vcBZukRc5p-wr77mHrGbvgYeiE6kdda7sqt0BO350KtaoLyVSWYYtqotfkXHfN8y-S7EIIg1Go7xPFv8mFA2ZpkT2jS61Xh3p3iVQ/s1600/IMG_0867.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRTRGHvEGKU1jVVr7TEhW7dH5qT_ijtkQX3vD9m-vcBZukRc5p-wr77mHrGbvgYeiE6kdda7sqt0BO350KtaoLyVSWYYtqotfkXHfN8y-S7EIIg1Go7xPFv8mFA2ZpkT2jS61Xh3p3iVQ/s320/IMG_0867.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All packed up and ready to go</td></tr>
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With a few late nights, three and a half seasons of Merlin, and the ability to knit like the wind, I can happily say that I have completed my quest. The gifts have been given (and happily received) to all but a couple of people I'll be seeing later on, and my hands can now take a well-deserved rest. Although, there is that lovely grey worsted that has been begging me to become a sweater...</div>
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Dizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17004365231418421715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743928058005922359.post-28851964486005073392015-12-10T16:42:00.000-05:002015-12-10T16:42:05.789-05:00An Early Christmas Gift For Me!So I'm probably a bit more excited about this than I should be...but I got a package in the mail yesterday that I've been waiting for for a while now. My first set of bamboo double-pointed needles! Well, technically, 16 sets of dpn's, one in each size of needle. They were on for a <i>super</i> great price.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4XoGIyheQTFOb-mj5yNlAg0idujPGhV6-u71fxpiJjzuwDrf3qlp5AxC69zyFnz9lxU2srrBd5ET5r7dXDUy2NtUynM18NjeXP4rsFX-qWTGyW5hM8jfqgT-slZ3FS9GIekB9feIoAM0/s1600/IMG_0852.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4XoGIyheQTFOb-mj5yNlAg0idujPGhV6-u71fxpiJjzuwDrf3qlp5AxC69zyFnz9lxU2srrBd5ET5r7dXDUy2NtUynM18NjeXP4rsFX-qWTGyW5hM8jfqgT-slZ3FS9GIekB9feIoAM0/s320/IMG_0852.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had to label each package in the US size, since the needles themselves are only marked in metric</td></tr>
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And the best part of my new gift to me? I can use them to make gifts for everyone else!</div>
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Working with dpn's is another skill that I used to find intimidating -- or at least, confusing. Kishi often remarks that he believes me to be a wizard, and my knitting is some sort of sorcery. (I am alright with this.) But once I got started, my hands seemed to figure it out on their own. The biggest thing to remember is to double and triple check that your cast-on stitches are straight before joining them to knit in the round. Considering you're generally using three or four needles at a time, that makes three or four more chances for your stitches to get twisted. Also, try to keep your stitches centered on the needle, so they don't slip off the end while you're working.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWI79XT10p8nHegMSdSuPVTBzVc77YZNwTT9YU20t6HxpSp8f7PFOyiy8_MCSboK9YzLlPzeutVFA3bRvF5vjWbFsEp5LgJAtxPz4_YUBNNRTrbEnynsxsFFrNQzDTzX-Hqfu3sM_eibo/s1600/IMG_0842.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWI79XT10p8nHegMSdSuPVTBzVc77YZNwTT9YU20t6HxpSp8f7PFOyiy8_MCSboK9YzLlPzeutVFA3bRvF5vjWbFsEp5LgJAtxPz4_YUBNNRTrbEnynsxsFFrNQzDTzX-Hqfu3sM_eibo/s320/IMG_0842.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So much faster than knitting flat and sewing it up later!</td></tr>
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These new needles will definitely help speed up my gift-making, and besides, one can never have too many needles. The more needles, the more projects on the go, right? Now, let's just see how long it takes me to mix up the packages...</div>
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Dizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17004365231418421715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743928058005922359.post-73738771156549042612015-11-27T09:30:00.000-05:002015-11-29T19:29:32.221-05:00Arya's Baby Blanket!This is basically the project that started it all. <br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPXVz7kWnVZrxt66AjBH-oHohAR_7zjJPMBEpGBOkRVRr4ENV4Bd7KoDYuzQ1DBVeXYWYsDTDCYyTrxYNm5ARK_4wUSY4Aig7zIKvV8PxHJawrlOUf2p5ad7QlVrEYXc3Ftja42bU-CSQ/s1600/arya+blanket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPXVz7kWnVZrxt66AjBH-oHohAR_7zjJPMBEpGBOkRVRr4ENV4Bd7KoDYuzQ1DBVeXYWYsDTDCYyTrxYNm5ARK_4wUSY4Aig7zIKvV8PxHJawrlOUf2p5ad7QlVrEYXc3Ftja42bU-CSQ/s320/arya+blanket.jpg" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finished this blanket with just a week or two to spare!</td></tr>
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For years, I was the one that knit scarves -- just your basic, run-of-the-mill garter stitch scarves. Garter stitch was all I knew. I made a blanket for my first daughter, Morgan, which was basically just a wide, short scarf. <br>
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But when I got pregnant with my second daughter, I found a whole new world of knitting. I was at my friend Lioness' place one day, for one of our knitting dates. She was working on a baby blanket for someone she knew, in a Fan and Feather pattern. As I watched her knit, I fell in love with the pattern, and I knew that I wanted one for my own baby.<br>
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I found a pattern <a href="http://wishingiwasknitting.blogspot.ca/2007/02/feather-and-fan-rainbow-baby-blanket.html" target="_blank">here</a>, and I jumped on it. It's actually really simple once you memorize the basic repeats. I did alter it slightly, first by switching the colors of the border. Each round, you need to remember to twist the one yarn around the other when switching colors to keep the stitches connected. This was my first time working with more than one color, and it took a few attempts to get it right.<br>
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Otherwise, I chose a 9 pattern repeat. The number three is powerful, and is prevalent in most religions (ie, the Holy Trinity; the Maiden, Mother, and Crone; the Norns or the Fates: Past, Present and Future, etc.) Three times three is especially powerful, and is considered a protective charm to many Pagans. I chose to repeat the fan pattern nine times across, and since the border started in pink, I worked nine repetitions of the cream rows. This made the blanket a bit bigger than the original pattern's dimensions, but it works nicely for bundling her in the stroller, and she'll be able to use it once she starts sleeping in the crib (which will likely be very soon, the way she's growing!).<br>
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It's amazing to look back and see how much I've learned in so short a time -- and there's still plenty left to master! I'm thinking of trying cables next...</div>
Dizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17004365231418421715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743928058005922359.post-12717555836695342392015-11-18T15:31:00.001-05:002015-11-18T15:31:34.575-05:00Mystery Gift Knits!Apologies for the radio-silence lately, but I've been hard at work on some gifts for the coming Holiday Season. Without going into too much details and spoiling the surprise, I can at least offer a hint as to what I've been up to.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1owzTGBAauiqNAtwa6MNMrsZ8BFfSMi0yMn7aMn51r6jJM_WRsP07Z8tF_lM2W_ROehtet2-J4hLytYHK7VVdIdckHQbz8OmEnaJWFR06Pp-wNl4BZsgGnN29HmFT-SWhfGUZeFfxwz4/s1600/IMG_0796.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1owzTGBAauiqNAtwa6MNMrsZ8BFfSMi0yMn7aMn51r6jJM_WRsP07Z8tF_lM2W_ROehtet2-J4hLytYHK7VVdIdckHQbz8OmEnaJWFR06Pp-wNl4BZsgGnN29HmFT-SWhfGUZeFfxwz4/s320/IMG_0796.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here's a quick tease of what I've been working on.</td></tr>
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First of all, I've got a mountain of yarn that's threatening to take over the bed in the spare room. More than I need? Possibly. Enough time to finish everyone's gifts before Christmas? Bah, who needs sleep anyways? Besides, losing feeling in one's fingers is perfectly normal, right? Right?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNHu9MtmWEvCUfKMSm6LppbJJt3lh9nWO43SEX-ASlh7lJlJr2f4Abm_Eb58OXgLaYd4Vcs45lYSyCM33HVSP1vjoHJofWuY9h55f3g4GjNmuTNoMohAnGdkJdzbeXdd3UzLOeuucy5jk/s1600/IMG_0797.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNHu9MtmWEvCUfKMSm6LppbJJt3lh9nWO43SEX-ASlh7lJlJr2f4Abm_Eb58OXgLaYd4Vcs45lYSyCM33HVSP1vjoHJofWuY9h55f3g4GjNmuTNoMohAnGdkJdzbeXdd3UzLOeuucy5jk/s320/IMG_0797.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There's still about a dozen more balls where these came from...</td></tr>
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Anyways, I've been working off-pattern on these, making it up as I go, since there never seems to be a pattern available for what I'm planning to do. So, a fair bit of trial-and-error involved. So far, I seem to have hit on a couple of designs that work -- hopefully everyone enjoys what I'm whipping up for them!<br />
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Back to work, I suppose...I'll be posting the completed designs after the holidays, so stay tuned!<br />
Dizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17004365231418421715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743928058005922359.post-56148210998320771442015-11-04T13:26:00.002-05:002015-11-04T13:26:38.651-05:00Baby Hearts!Though I've been knitting on and off for most of my life, I've only gotten very serious about it in the past year or so. As such, I still consider myself to be a bit of a newbie, with a <i>lot</i> to learn. That's one big reason why I'm always finding a new project to try, with new skills I can practice. I love learning new things (and knitting certainly offers up an endless supply) but I know that it can sometimes be a bit intimidating. It's easy to look at the work of someone who's had years of practice and experience, and think "I'll <i>NEVER</i> be able to do that!"<br />
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This was my feeling towards sweaters. With a new baby, the urge to dress her in cute little cardigans and pullovers was there; there are certainly no shortages of patterns available, either. But I just kept thinking I wasn't <i>ready</i> for that yet. I didn't have the skills. Or the needles. Or whatever.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrSOMUU5W6megKpYvn7FhbQHvBeBquSagmBYFiwGZKnhTsdNn7pIjk15jn5foq_cz7FXRrLx-mci1PeBbtSZXS4ii4knJqfEkXnQ90Qh7f5d3QJfRgrZBKQ9wvqACMX60wcZryfxBvggE/s1600/IMG_0749.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrSOMUU5W6megKpYvn7FhbQHvBeBquSagmBYFiwGZKnhTsdNn7pIjk15jn5foq_cz7FXRrLx-mci1PeBbtSZXS4ii4knJqfEkXnQ90Qh7f5d3QJfRgrZBKQ9wvqACMX60wcZryfxBvggE/s320/IMG_0749.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bubblegum and Raspberry...and they look delicious!</td></tr>
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Then I found this yarn. As soon as I felt it, I knew it was going to be a sweater. My first sweater. I pored over pattern after pattern, finding plenty that were cute, but none that were <i>THE</i> one. Slowly, the nerves faded away as I realized that I knew all of the technical skills the patterns described, and the general formula wasn't so difficult after all. </div>
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So, before I had the chance to psyche myself out unnecessarily, I cast on and didn't look back. Seeing as I only had my US6 straight needles (I do plan on investing in some double-pointed needles at some point in the near future) I opted for a cardigan style. It's also much simpler to button a sweater than to wrestle a squirming infant into a pull-over. Taking the sweater formula I'd worked out from checking out other patterns, I just sort of made it up as I went -- though I made sure to write it all down, so I can do it again, or make some changes for next time.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK7NCiPSjEgSNVSqq95HmHqEiiqVlq1wRr0nQS9AN7NBSDMej2dkMKuKDHu9c3gknxzJ-Q6m-vrGdtSJBf9VQ_7i8tTrW3KDOPLNXlKhYIlsVzYFTDxYiWM9JI-feWM3wNjG8LBCqXsS8/s1600/IMG_0734.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK7NCiPSjEgSNVSqq95HmHqEiiqVlq1wRr0nQS9AN7NBSDMej2dkMKuKDHu9c3gknxzJ-Q6m-vrGdtSJBf9VQ_7i8tTrW3KDOPLNXlKhYIlsVzYFTDxYiWM9JI-feWM3wNjG8LBCqXsS8/s320/IMG_0734.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My first sweater -- finished in only a week!</td></tr>
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Using straight needles meant that I had to seam the sleeves afterwards, which is a bit of extra work, but thankfully sewing is another of my strengths so it wasn't a biggie. And of course I couldn't keep things simple for myself while learning something new -- no, I have to mix it up with some colorwork, too. Just simple little hearts, and it turned out <i>so</i> adorable! I do need to work on keeping the colorwork a bit looser, though, so it doesn't pucker...not that it's very noticeable, but I'm a bit of a perfectionist.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSv5YiELRKadjxTIbaCuYDIrAW5SpzEKj1BAqvF8AGOhGucrhQtmxlCBt9Vzqvp1s_F-m0aT_aUoEOTesdc-IoLpFZh8OAuME9ZjTLhIUzKbrxMi7CSE6hCGBd7CYs8xXYCyQ_HJCgU2s/s1600/IMG_0748.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSv5YiELRKadjxTIbaCuYDIrAW5SpzEKj1BAqvF8AGOhGucrhQtmxlCBt9Vzqvp1s_F-m0aT_aUoEOTesdc-IoLpFZh8OAuME9ZjTLhIUzKbrxMi7CSE6hCGBd7CYs8xXYCyQ_HJCgU2s/s320/IMG_0748.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great, now I need to pick up a boat-load of cute buttons for all the sweaters I'm going to be knitting! </td></tr>
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The sweater itself fits the 6 month size average...but I probably should have aimed a bit bigger. Arya's on the tall side for a 5 month-old, and the sweater <i>just</i> fits. She likely won't be in it for long, but at least we can get some use out of it while this gorgeously warm fall weather lasts. It's a lighter-weight yarn, so I think I might make her a new sweater for spring -- but I'll wait until it gets closer, since there's no telling how much more she'll grow by then!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKRWq4HGKIJHKDYnU9HaO_hyod2vb64TdR3P_wEnOdsxj5823fjSxhGyjbyi46ms3KYUrSByezlfCp-CEFOaml0UXRS7a9bfTLBkNnoDSHc_gARBgmfonCBSU9BxdcUWLTjG2RJiKpvpA/s1600/IMG_0743.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKRWq4HGKIJHKDYnU9HaO_hyod2vb64TdR3P_wEnOdsxj5823fjSxhGyjbyi46ms3KYUrSByezlfCp-CEFOaml0UXRS7a9bfTLBkNnoDSHc_gARBgmfonCBSU9BxdcUWLTjG2RJiKpvpA/s320/IMG_0743.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cuteness overload!</td></tr>
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I will be posting the pattern I created eventually, with a link to <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/people/DizzyStitchin" target="_blank">my Ravelry</a> page. For now, I've told myself that I have to finish <i>at least</i> one more Christmas gift before I move on to my next project. A knitter's work is never done...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ClIgcvFq-2nDieWeNE_skHXplKZmRyWXp9RFt7SEEzun4c6YxLM3pmFjnTR7-lWereYZ2PuXqKp_AmGP6TCokTOfvyqfasgpoPFPgSzuRkPELXkSam4Tj5OvFXCcTvPqISpb0AqKP9I/s1600/IMG_0751.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ClIgcvFq-2nDieWeNE_skHXplKZmRyWXp9RFt7SEEzun4c6YxLM3pmFjnTR7-lWereYZ2PuXqKp_AmGP6TCokTOfvyqfasgpoPFPgSzuRkPELXkSam4Tj5OvFXCcTvPqISpb0AqKP9I/s320/IMG_0751.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is what my average project looks like on paper...now to translate this archaic text into a proper pattern! </td></tr>
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Dizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17004365231418421715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743928058005922359.post-26951468445338667612015-10-28T19:29:00.001-04:002015-10-28T19:29:11.551-04:00Getting Historical!This square isn't for a particular fandom that I'm fond of, but for an area of geekiness in which I excel. I'm a huge history buff, focusing mainly in ancient history -- Ancient Egypt, the Greeks and Romans, right up through Medieval Europe. When I was little, I always wanted to be an archaeologist when I grew up. Oh, who am I kidding, I <i>still</i> want to be an archaeologist. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIUX9mQUuQJ7rYjqwvaB8B6-KzO_yjWB_66RuRZukiN_ZR2D28xWBKkoZOEU0ZY0WtqpGXQ9yvtZNhGMZnhj1FJX2ZeDrR2AvTRf9fjgJXt-F6qd-ZnYrltrmchGYGCysaCvhdjPnSHSs/s1600/indiana+jones.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIUX9mQUuQJ7rYjqwvaB8B6-KzO_yjWB_66RuRZukiN_ZR2D28xWBKkoZOEU0ZY0WtqpGXQ9yvtZNhGMZnhj1FJX2ZeDrR2AvTRf9fjgJXt-F6qd-ZnYrltrmchGYGCysaCvhdjPnSHSs/s320/indiana+jones.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who <i>didn't</i> want to be Indiana Jones when they grew up ?!</td></tr>
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Egypt has always held an especially fond place in my heart, and even if nothing else on my Bucket List gets done, I'd be perfectly content if I could get there myself one day to see the artwork and monuments. Even as a child, I was drawn to anything Egyptian -- my Foster-Mom used to like telling the story of how whenever we'd take a trip to the Museum, I would wander off by myself. Every time, without fail, she would find me in the Egyptian exhibit, talking to the mummy on display. I even began correcting some of the tour guides when they made mistakes while discussing the artifacts -- I got in trouble for that one, even though I probably <i>did</i> know more about the exhibit than they did.</div>
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This square pays homage to someone who is probably my most beloved historical figure. I kid you not, I have always had a serious, hard-core crush on him, despite the fact he's been dead for almost 2,000 years. My dear husband has learned to cope with this fact remarkably well, might I add. Without further ado, may I present to you His Royal Highness, Ruler of Upper and Lower Egypt, Lord of the Two Lands, King of the Sedge and the Bee, Nebkheperure...or, as most of you know him, King Tut.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4S2PnpnFeWdE65OKR09Dun5eX2bCExN4XHL1kVtqwM7NEGImSRs8aVmjweYLtQGT53-vZcxULxRxikdJBXpXMOpJV8rdT3PbRL6t_Zy1ZTVwskW7KLpKLbgp4WvlcOxDHTq3gXb_QoaM/s1600/king+tut+mask.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4S2PnpnFeWdE65OKR09Dun5eX2bCExN4XHL1kVtqwM7NEGImSRs8aVmjweYLtQGT53-vZcxULxRxikdJBXpXMOpJV8rdT3PbRL6t_Zy1ZTVwskW7KLpKLbgp4WvlcOxDHTq3gXb_QoaM/s320/king+tut+mask.jpg" width="261" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">King Tut's famous death-mask</td></tr>
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Most people know Tut because of his famous tomb discovery in 1922, which was one of the only tombs to have had all its treasures still intact. I was actually fortunate enough to get to see his exhibit when it came to Toronto (the guided tour was actually voiced by Mr. Harrison Ford himself -- how many archaeological exhibits can say they're led by Indiana Jones!?)...my Foster-Mom got me tickets, and I gushed at her over the phone for <i>hours</i> afterwards. It was actually one of our last conversations before she passed, and I'm <i>so</i> glad I got to share it with her. She always encouraged my passion with the past, and shared lots of stories about the places she'd been.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHFugK4kLtfTrYj9uwOohWGJSltqCmJKZIHsHLfd7BlY-S5rS3ABlgjvagrdW2f9W6mmgA6bZtLkD4pjJAY6n-GdedApueXRnSwCxsEz_YI6vqcLxXkuQg3FjwF8LLiK9MYr-YbB5TvLI/s1600/petra+temple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHFugK4kLtfTrYj9uwOohWGJSltqCmJKZIHsHLfd7BlY-S5rS3ABlgjvagrdW2f9W6mmgA6bZtLkD4pjJAY6n-GdedApueXRnSwCxsEz_YI6vqcLxXkuQg3FjwF8LLiK9MYr-YbB5TvLI/s320/petra+temple.jpg" width="311" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: start;">My Foster-Mom actually visited the Temple of Indiana Jones's Last Crusade...it's in Petra, Jordan</td></tr>
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Here are just a few quick tidbits about him:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>His father Akhenaten tried to abolish the worship of the traditional Egyptian Gods. He worshiped the sun, spent hours staring at it every day, and eventually went blind. And crazy. The crazy <i>may</i> have come first.</li>
<li>His step-mother was Nefertiti, said to be the most beautiful Egyptian queen of all time, and it is believed that one of his Great-great-something-grandmothers was Hatshepsut, who was one of the first women Pharaohs, who dressed like a man and ruled her kingdom like nobody's business, and said "Screw you world, girls can be kings, too!"</li>
<li>His sister (and wife -- they did like to keep the royal bloodlines pure...) was Ankhsunamun...which was the name of Imhotep's girlfriend in the 1999 version of "The Mummy" with Brendan Fraser.</li>
<li>Tutankhamun brought back the worship of the old Gods after his dad died of crazy, stopped the destruction of the old temples, and if it weren't for him, we likely wouldn't have half the knowledge of the Ancient Egyptians we have today</li>
</ul>
So knitting in hieroglyphs was definitely something new for me, but thankfully this cartouche (the symbol which holds the name) was fairly simple. It's actually Tut's royal name, Nebkheperure, spelled out. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7DJ015A_DhKeR3UDZjkMPiYYVTcQJydGP4THg8OewBR1PufLNUA8dl7im2mS4EsipUMqJCPeVTspY2LWgQN5BuOmrl_G9W-pDgicpwhKDuhYsylSth9kRgkLewBgrqGcuC3WXBScJAQ0/s1600/IMG_0730.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7DJ015A_DhKeR3UDZjkMPiYYVTcQJydGP4THg8OewBR1PufLNUA8dl7im2mS4EsipUMqJCPeVTspY2LWgQN5BuOmrl_G9W-pDgicpwhKDuhYsylSth9kRgkLewBgrqGcuC3WXBScJAQ0/s320/IMG_0730.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The trouble with double-sided knitting is figuring out which side to display...</td></tr>
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Hubby spent a good while trying to figure this one out...at one point, he asked if it was a bowl of ramen. While I do enjoy cups of noodles, I do not enjoy them enough to designate a square of my blanket to them. Sorry, ramen noodles, though you are delicious. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Hv7HRXtEG4tQxjtD0xTnluVUeZc6kFacnnyBi_JIlNgN26OtiLefVjMnnFPlbQ97LiLj1bjzrOchmyh5arQCCwR_ipeXP3MBW-1RN8t7LRD_Hf41i1GgVD3ZwWwe7uQThSMl4OR7Qu8/s1600/IMG_0717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Hv7HRXtEG4tQxjtD0xTnluVUeZc6kFacnnyBi_JIlNgN26OtiLefVjMnnFPlbQ97LiLj1bjzrOchmyh5arQCCwR_ipeXP3MBW-1RN8t7LRD_Hf41i1GgVD3ZwWwe7uQThSMl4OR7Qu8/s320/IMG_0717.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Apparently this is a depiction of ramen noodles in a claw machine...okay, I can kind of see it...<br /><br /></span></td></tr>
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My pattern design can be found <a href="https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B5Uzsr7iDJCqdGdpRF9zQkF6czA" target="_blank">here.</a></div>
Dizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17004365231418421715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743928058005922359.post-11995217842540299172015-10-16T18:51:00.001-04:002015-10-16T18:51:53.112-04:00Frills Everywhere!Soooo...I may have a new addiction. These little skirts are so quick to turn out, and super easy, since I'm basically designing them on the fly. Each one turns out a little different, while I'm working out the basic numbers for the various sizes. This second one is a bit bigger than the first, and it's my back-up for little Sabby's gift, in case the first one is too small. I haven't seen her in a while, and kids have this really annoying habit of getting bigger.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfdhd8ICLlr-U8MjKb_BZUBdkcEyg5sBDngl6WBaOr0Kwo4nH-T9McSPx5z4fSrzlnVF2kwPGFXsfqUwUABOq9TfJBHPNdxqX8TWFzVW8XGkhK9sYJiiv0E97lDA9DEu-CeuqkFnAMFTI/s1600/IMG_0680.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfdhd8ICLlr-U8MjKb_BZUBdkcEyg5sBDngl6WBaOr0Kwo4nH-T9McSPx5z4fSrzlnVF2kwPGFXsfqUwUABOq9TfJBHPNdxqX8TWFzVW8XGkhK9sYJiiv0E97lDA9DEu-CeuqkFnAMFTI/s320/IMG_0680.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I am super loving these frills lately!</td></tr>
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The ribbing around the waist, as well as the drawstring, means that a bit of growing room is allowed. I can say from experience with both my girls that there's nothing sadder than finding the most adorable outfit for your little one, only to find they have outgrown it before they can ever wear it again. Also, because they are so super cute, you will likely be too absorbed in squishing their adorable selves to take any pictures to forever prove how sweet they look...thankfully, little Arya won't likely have this problem, since Daddy's camera-trigger finger would put an Old Western gunslinger to shame.<br />
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The one thing that this whole skirt kick has emphasized for me -- which is an ongoing issue I have dealt with my whole life -- is that I have no visual sense of measurement. I honestly cannot compute distance or size by sight, whether it's an inch or a mile. I can look at something I've knit and say, "Oh, that's about an inch of ribbing," when it's actually closer to four...or else I can say "Yep, that's a whole six inches of stockinette!" when it's really only two. As such, sizing is really hard for me. I can look at something and think that it will fit the intended recipient for sure, when in reality it comes nowhere close. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhib5TAAsouYEmySU1yBdOYDSKfooV5WNFI-fN-yKxUPpIeqbO4-kkh4l8WhsEjbUyI9Vmj8HXVPmBwmtgi1Hjsfxyw9yGYKmkIu0L8lTIL4hv9KAuHfHhO2S5_oDSQkSrIpKBPgKGLwDU/s1600/IMG_0683.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhib5TAAsouYEmySU1yBdOYDSKfooV5WNFI-fN-yKxUPpIeqbO4-kkh4l8WhsEjbUyI9Vmj8HXVPmBwmtgi1Hjsfxyw9yGYKmkIu0L8lTIL4hv9KAuHfHhO2S5_oDSQkSrIpKBPgKGLwDU/s320/IMG_0683.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The black and purple makes me heart this piece</td></tr>
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Most of the wearable items I've made so far have been either one-sized or accessories, which is safe for someone like me...but the one thing I wanted when I first started this blog was to learn new things, and that means stepping out of my comfort zone once in a while. This has definitely been a new experience for me, and while I may never be able to accurately judge the length of a garment on sight, I have at least learned a few things.<br />
<br />
First of all, I have come to rely on my trusty measuring tape while I knit, and to double-check the sizing as I go. Having the exact measurements of the recipient helps, but checking online against market sizing standards helps, too. Also, I keep a sort of knitting journal, where I record each and every step I take in creating the piece, as well as any variations I make. Everything from the type of yarn used to how many stitches and rows in each...it's a great help when drafting patterns that other people could use, and it really helps keep track of what works and what might need some tweaking. All things considered, I might have some new patterns ready to post soon! Keep an eye out for me on Ravelry, as DizzyStitchin. Dizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17004365231418421715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743928058005922359.post-83755521167098764362015-10-10T12:01:00.001-04:002015-10-10T12:01:11.504-04:00Frilly Skirt!Ever since I got my Sashay Sparkle, I have been envisioning little frilly skirts. Like, a ton of little frilly skirts. For everyone. It helps that between my friend Lioness and I, we've got three little girls under 8. It's great practice for figuring out different sizes for my patterns, and I have the safety net of knowing that even if the size is a bit off, at least one of the girls will fit it (or grow into it). <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq9gsWrqc0MSCL8kLxWeEwEcjL6pWa7XqTsQ0OPnravGx1tLk9dyba5eZQYQbINKWaT2h_ukNoZlq61RIwniFuuXa_PhzOxdH4fwiXtbWGq7vPfDhnGZfPupWzPPPnamPZ-Fm-kg8VAuk/s1600/IMG_0665.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq9gsWrqc0MSCL8kLxWeEwEcjL6pWa7XqTsQ0OPnravGx1tLk9dyba5eZQYQbINKWaT2h_ukNoZlq61RIwniFuuXa_PhzOxdH4fwiXtbWGq7vPfDhnGZfPupWzPPPnamPZ-Fm-kg8VAuk/s320/IMG_0665.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A bit of asymmetrical flair adds to the floofy-ness</td></tr>
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This was also my first attempt at knitting in the round, and I'm super pleased with the way it turned out. Rule number one, though, is make sure your stitches aren't twisted when you're joining them, or you'll spend about an hour undoing the rows you've knit and untangling your yarn. Trust me. <br />
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The frills are on the purl-side of the work, which is the inside when you're knitting. I'd stop every few rows and flip it inside-out to check that it was looking the way I wanted it to, but there was also the added plus that the knit-side ended up looking really cool, with a stripe of color where the frills were on the other side. Honestly, I think this skirt would look great both ways -- either all ruffles, or with the ruffles just peeking out the bottom. Hooray for reversible knitwear!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXC56OTiGlcVDENo7j9OuC77iXGAjozJOuhesNAPJOSwm2lVCWsi937mpCwzfC8KcE8_ouFKrnx8Y3wSL7PVqlFwYo8qEceuzVDaSTb7T508ImJUUQ1IfUwpEFnQSwqQ7QRNfitDhrhpU/s1600/IMG_0653.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXC56OTiGlcVDENo7j9OuC77iXGAjozJOuhesNAPJOSwm2lVCWsi937mpCwzfC8KcE8_ouFKrnx8Y3wSL7PVqlFwYo8qEceuzVDaSTb7T508ImJUUQ1IfUwpEFnQSwqQ7QRNfitDhrhpU/s320/IMG_0653.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Love</b></i> the way the black makes the color pop</td></tr>
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It has taken me a while to get around to this project, mostly because I was waiting to find the perfect yarn to pair with each of the colors I have in Sashay. Salmon, rhubarb, and emerald aren't the most common colors at my usual yarn depots, and the vibrancy of the colors made them pretty difficult to match. Thankfully, inspiration hit me like a Glam-Rock Hair-Band (which may have come from watching too much Glee lately) and I realized I have a ginormous amount of black yarn lying about. Hello, 80's! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJZ0aUq_RiokUaBf_1tWI0PHSXxPv1RdNYRZUaQiea8GbP63Sa8QOGH1RpC02QxOcZ2J4b5esxxs-rWmjzhP_qjN-VkkqpFDMmpLAMuAhElQpTZiZW_fH-shyphenhyphenxUNnsDUrZdgh5x6Wnqdc/s1600/IMG_0668.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJZ0aUq_RiokUaBf_1tWI0PHSXxPv1RdNYRZUaQiea8GbP63Sa8QOGH1RpC02QxOcZ2J4b5esxxs-rWmjzhP_qjN-VkkqpFDMmpLAMuAhElQpTZiZW_fH-shyphenhyphenxUNnsDUrZdgh5x6Wnqdc/s320/IMG_0668.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">I used a length of Sashay for the drawstring waistband</span></td></tr>
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I'm still working out the pattern in different sizes (there's a lot more math in knitting than I'd imagined) but for now, this one's going to little Sabby, who turned three last month. My girls will have to wait, I guess, though probably not long, since I've got a second skirt on the needles already, in a slightly different style. I have a feeling that there will be an abundance of frilly skirts in the girls' wardrobes shortly. I'm also thinking up a big-girl version for me, though maybe with a <i>little</i> less frills.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVhoKpNZUtmhC5bsGsWfrmbdiFJ-tpOq70b2zfANrgMJO30SN6IyjS24JiIuAbsNUI5NbftlrvlWn0gztbU5hSdQGpV4rhU_dkEOU8u4wOQltPPRsrmNtHNPWia32yTiMP7QYssmoyN08/s1600/IMG_0671.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVhoKpNZUtmhC5bsGsWfrmbdiFJ-tpOq70b2zfANrgMJO30SN6IyjS24JiIuAbsNUI5NbftlrvlWn0gztbU5hSdQGpV4rhU_dkEOU8u4wOQltPPRsrmNtHNPWia32yTiMP7QYssmoyN08/s320/IMG_0671.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The inside, showing off that little bit of flair</td></tr>
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Dizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17004365231418421715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743928058005922359.post-60777251358306098892015-09-30T03:13:00.000-04:002017-02-07T02:01:08.073-05:00Zig-Zag Scarf!<a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/263311028/soft-pastels-zig-zag-scarf-100-wool-hand?ref=related-5" target="_blank">This</a> is one of those pieces that just kind of came together without any sort of conscious thought. I was headed to my sister's place for the weekend, and wanted a project I could work on in transit. Everything I had on the go was too cumbersome to transport easily, so I grabbed a set of needles and the first ball of yarn that came to hand from my stash drawer, packed up the baby and the husband, and set out.<br />
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The ball I pulled was a pretty, marled (hah, I just learned that word -- it means when a yarn has two different colors twisted together!) self-striping wool, and the colors remind me of sherbet. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLUNDcpS_huin8TqkE_OAKsZ0v65anbY9QN4-gwMxaU_7UnXK9_Ge4dVCKVhKqp9IJxEe4myiZeDjvUMfRez5jYoqv6ZvKoG6TbRXwtykKan_8LlxJo8gRBfdR6VcZZGmHuUns2jQzJ1Q/s1600/IMG_0583.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLUNDcpS_huin8TqkE_OAKsZ0v65anbY9QN4-gwMxaU_7UnXK9_Ge4dVCKVhKqp9IJxEe4myiZeDjvUMfRez5jYoqv6ZvKoG6TbRXwtykKan_8LlxJo8gRBfdR6VcZZGmHuUns2jQzJ1Q/s320/IMG_0583.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nob Hill Naturescapes in Spring Spray</td></tr>
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I started and re-started a couple dozen times on the bus ride over, not sure exactly what I was trying to do, but just knowing that I wasn't doing it. Finally, I got something going that I was happy with, and it just took off from there, forming itself into what it wanted to be. Turns out, it's another scarf. But a really pretty one!<br />
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This one was pretty simple, so it worked up fairly quickly -- just plain garter stitch with an increase at the beginning of the row and a decrease at the end for the zig, then switching them around for the zag. Since the wool is so fine, it's more of a fashion scarf than a winter face-warmer, and the zig-zagging pattern gives it an interesting drape. As I told my husband, it's "wonky". <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Bz_AHrB9TpUI0KDL7oitMIIxynl8eQ5PRkoU1CR8GuurtTLZLForibkjM_2K2bZuQ_Zk877-frBo2uz2nKumaYVjwzOgzmyZr4IVSrD0xSH5MN-HKSTu8UydGsMz9cHeirEOg6fqmbo/s1600/IMG_0584.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Bz_AHrB9TpUI0KDL7oitMIIxynl8eQ5PRkoU1CR8GuurtTLZLForibkjM_2K2bZuQ_Zk877-frBo2uz2nKumaYVjwzOgzmyZr4IVSrD0xSH5MN-HKSTu8UydGsMz9cHeirEOg6fqmbo/s320/IMG_0584.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Knitting this <i>really</i> made me crave sherbet</td></tr>
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Back at home, I was slightly sleep-deprived over the next few days as I continued working on my wonky masterpiece -- which anyone who knows me will tell you generally leads to statements of random silliness. The shape of the scarf reminded me of a lightning-bolt, which made me think of Thor, who really has no business with such fruity oranges, pinks, and purples. And yet, in a half-lucid state, I announced to Kishi that I have titled this piece "Thor in Springtime".<br />
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Because it made sense to me at the time.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHWowcYljNP7i0ObvR7moUSXF96r8CPidt-8EIxa_Lfj-lQp4omcZObd1ZaLXRjLvTvXiGnwTvTr2sIBxcsR3cjftHMbk8qPIKm21clCIMFPec9trbdh1DX8Ys63gSH_-U93A-OwXUQWc/s1600/IMG_0644.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHWowcYljNP7i0ObvR7moUSXF96r8CPidt-8EIxa_Lfj-lQp4omcZObd1ZaLXRjLvTvXiGnwTvTr2sIBxcsR3cjftHMbk8qPIKm21clCIMFPec9trbdh1DX8Ys63gSH_-U93A-OwXUQWc/s320/IMG_0644.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All ready for temperatures that require sleeves!</td></tr>
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<br />Dizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17004365231418421715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743928058005922359.post-15246858414198153882015-09-18T16:23:00.003-04:002015-09-18T16:23:57.398-04:00Moonlight Shawl: Part 2!Getting through the main body of the shawl was just fine, and once past the initial intimidation factor, reading the lace charts wasn't nearly as difficult as I thought it would be. Granted, I specifically chose a simple repeat pattern to start with, but it certainly helped to build up my confidence for the next project. Besides, once you learn to decipher ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs and Norse runes, knitting charts are a breeze by comparison.<br />
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I brought in an extra set of stitch markers (super glad I decided to make the second set!) to help myself keep track of where the pattern repeats started and ended, but that's mainly for my own personal OCD reasons and not absolutely necessary. Also on that note, the original pattern required you to switch to the lace charts in the middle of a four-row repeat...which required me to do some quick math and add on an additional six rows, in order to keep both the pattern and my sanity. Switching mid-repeat literally makes my brain itchy, and I go out of my way to avoid it whenever possible. (The pattern must be completed! That's why it's called a pattern, not a random!) <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN9EpN-BEGC7pM6RDD_FDZKvgt6bQ6fi0bryL6Ov7JgYafLUeZ4y2-HmZW7kTibwZJGHJvWd0GK-L3ZQYvjGnsj7aRsaNFlrV6YKbKZ4shSMmaf7m2EHg1Ooa1zGgHijNGee56fT-LjLY/s1600/IMG_0622.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN9EpN-BEGC7pM6RDD_FDZKvgt6bQ6fi0bryL6Ov7JgYafLUeZ4y2-HmZW7kTibwZJGHJvWd0GK-L3ZQYvjGnsj7aRsaNFlrV6YKbKZ4shSMmaf7m2EHg1Ooa1zGgHijNGee56fT-LjLY/s320/IMG_0622.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zigzag edging</td></tr>
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If I had followed the pattern exactly as written, the whole thing would have been finished on a single ball of yarn...as it was, I had to dip into a second for the last four rows and the bind-off. Not bad, though, and I still have enough of this gloriously soft yarn left to make another two shawls, with a bit left over. Honestly, this stuff feels so wonderful, I would knit myself a full body-suit out of the stuff and wear it all the time. Maybe a onesie. With feeties. Oh Gods, now I need to invent a pattern for that!<br />
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Anyways, with the exception of a good soak and blocking (laying the piece out and pinning the edges to dry in its desired shape), my shawl is now finished, and just in time for fall. I can certainly see it coming in handy as the nights get cooler. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs4YCMrUUu4UDgqzxVG83d9B2OGOZE6WhTxfKuQSjo7JCe9yCyoVWb5sS1vk753t0CEDkPPSbkWY-dBcba7PIDSBpc0vW3uqOrhO1ZZvhhsgqc_6jy-heUKCJW3_mdeJ6h9V5s6fBoKno/s1600/IMG_0619.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs4YCMrUUu4UDgqzxVG83d9B2OGOZE6WhTxfKuQSjo7JCe9yCyoVWb5sS1vk753t0CEDkPPSbkWY-dBcba7PIDSBpc0vW3uqOrhO1ZZvhhsgqc_6jy-heUKCJW3_mdeJ6h9V5s6fBoKno/s320/IMG_0619.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's a wooly-soft stingray!</td></tr>
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<br />Dizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17004365231418421715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743928058005922359.post-77546349940690254362015-09-09T02:04:00.002-04:002015-09-09T02:04:57.882-04:00Winter is Coming!Despite the fact that it is only the very beginning of September (where did the time go?!) and still a gorgeous summer here in Ontario, it's only a matter of time before the cold weather hits. That being said, I figured it's a good idea to be ready for it. And, since I already own about a million scarves, I decided to try something new -- a hat! Now I can keep more than just my neck warm.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA-TE2-V9bQ5o8CLxETG5Uf-5LU-L0wUvg1dpZPmtObcA9Er8XC9O7rYrvaft8DdGVb1w6tmJ2cQPRSlfyyIpJFrhzxRGVik7p-yF89uheYo4rAZpVOkfHlamqvht0yE7Q3GL4nfY1DVE/s1600/IMG_0578.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA-TE2-V9bQ5o8CLxETG5Uf-5LU-L0wUvg1dpZPmtObcA9Er8XC9O7rYrvaft8DdGVb1w6tmJ2cQPRSlfyyIpJFrhzxRGVik7p-yF89uheYo4rAZpVOkfHlamqvht0yE7Q3GL4nfY1DVE/s320/IMG_0578.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A wonderfully silly hat</td></tr>
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I wanted something fairly simple to work on in the few minutes I can find while the baby's napping, so I came up with a piece that is knit flat, then stitched together at the end. I had a ball of worsted yarn kicking around, and still had a bit left over at the end. (It's actually a sage green, though it looks different in each image...) This was done on US6 needles.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjhnuqKH1HTwssuhGn0xYOK53TXT8kTAJbuml5-uWotxDdf7ogxOObXuPn3zALKJV2xEbsJq0G-nyaxZLT2CKYeWeh3oPFhf8Y7zWrlILofp4VMEQJR4ndmF30b_48kCAEyK1kSihT6vc/s1600/IMG_0568.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjhnuqKH1HTwssuhGn0xYOK53TXT8kTAJbuml5-uWotxDdf7ogxOObXuPn3zALKJV2xEbsJq0G-nyaxZLT2CKYeWeh3oPFhf8Y7zWrlILofp4VMEQJR4ndmF30b_48kCAEyK1kSihT6vc/s320/IMG_0568.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A simple design for this trial-run</td></tr>
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The bottom/top edge is just a simple rib stitch, and the main body was done in stockinette. I added a simple design for texture, which is just a 1-3-5-3-1 reverse-stitch diamond pattern (just purl the stitches on a knit row, and knit the stitches on a purl row). Basically, the body can be done in whatever stitch you choose -- you could add cables, color-work, or anything you'd like. Just remember that the finished piece will be folded in half, with the ribbing at the bottom on both sides.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUg_7-pCEmsKGquqLxpOxmAg4TxRrITtVFZrxufVhWpl7Myg1U7_FYycwkI7bo0FaBTi3KZACaj_JJREBSpI4z0afIVAecEs-a1mIsDx_wtK9jc1XTK0QYZtso9HwPIFYg5Clm87KscNg/s1600/IMG_0573.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUg_7-pCEmsKGquqLxpOxmAg4TxRrITtVFZrxufVhWpl7Myg1U7_FYycwkI7bo0FaBTi3KZACaj_JJREBSpI4z0afIVAecEs-a1mIsDx_wtK9jc1XTK0QYZtso9HwPIFYg5Clm87KscNg/s320/IMG_0573.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stitch the two edges down the sides</td></tr>
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Keep in mind when casting on and off that you need the edge to have a bit of give, so keep it loose. Once you've finished knitting, just fold it over and sew down the two long sides. (It's probably easiest to do this part inside-out.) After that, you're basically done. Feel free to add pom-poms, tassels, or other decorative adornments.<br />
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Wear, enjoy, and keep warm!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4tpUsVHv8vlgC5__EptJIBAASGVAioempgx4-gGSmyxl9QdQWkMy5_vC_emPnct1qWc8OPa2mOMzQhG7X6w2qRi1jX4m8qHJ1jB6FSwBueBC68eteB4VdWO2kUxJVoNYQ9qI3TfuOAqc/s1600/IMG_0575.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4tpUsVHv8vlgC5__EptJIBAASGVAioempgx4-gGSmyxl9QdQWkMy5_vC_emPnct1qWc8OPa2mOMzQhG7X6w2qRi1jX4m8qHJ1jB6FSwBueBC68eteB4VdWO2kUxJVoNYQ9qI3TfuOAqc/s320/IMG_0575.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Voila, un chapeau comique!</td></tr>
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<b>Simplified instructions:</b></div>
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<b>CO 45 stitches</b></div>
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<b>K1, P1 for 10 rows (rib stitch)</b></div>
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<b>Knit for approx. 14" (93 rows in stockinette for me)</b></div>
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<b>K1, P1 for 10 rows</b></div>
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<b>BO loosely</b></div>
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<b>Fold in half, stitch sides together</b></div>
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<b>Decorate as desired</b></div>
Dizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17004365231418421715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-743928058005922359.post-78572745658379880132015-09-02T01:44:00.002-04:002015-09-02T01:44:45.200-04:00Stars and Stripes!<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"I understood that reference!" - Steve Rogers</blockquote>
Captain America is not my usual brand of hero. He's too much of a stand-up goody-good, who's got a problem with foul language. (Spending an hour with me would likely give him an aneurysm...my dad was a trucker.) I'm not generally one for the straight-laced good-guy characters. In fact, I spent most of "The Avengers" cheering for Loki. Many hours have been spent in lively debate with my dear friend Lioness, who is an avid Cap fan, and while I could certainly agree with some of her points -- and the fact that he <i>is</i> rather good-looking -- I just really didn't like the guy.<br />
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Then, something inside me snapped.</div>
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I don't know if I suddenly discovered my inner goody-two-shoes that had been locked away in some deep, dark corner, or if Lioness's arguments had subtly shifted my perceptions, or perhaps my older daughter's obsession with him was contagious. (Note: you cannot win a "who's cooler?" argument against a five-year-old, even if Iron Man is <i>way</i> cooler than Cap.) Maybe I'd just been binge-watching Marvel movies too often. (I like to watch the full collection, in chronological order, before going to see the latest release.) Whatever it was that happened, I realized that I had -- *gasp!* -- become a Cap fan. Not like on a borderline-creepy level, like Coulson...but still.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGSKwDds58FOG3kUdpLHTXDhIG2rST7oXVHKuZAv2-f3FTJH_xG4QKYRzY5X6yG26gsbXSJHznptwep3BY6l3cUckKpnqH7fMuBJOnZxK2KUJf6-0CzAtSOuAFVczMvVn1eh1DwPkXbac/s1600/captain-america.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGSKwDds58FOG3kUdpLHTXDhIG2rST7oXVHKuZAv2-f3FTJH_xG4QKYRzY5X6yG26gsbXSJHznptwep3BY6l3cUckKpnqH7fMuBJOnZxK2KUJf6-0CzAtSOuAFVczMvVn1eh1DwPkXbac/s320/captain-america.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I was ashamed, at first, and tried to hide it. But when I found myself sneaking away from my husband at a convention to buy a Captain America t-shirt, I realized that I had a problem, and had to come clean. I came out to both Kishi and Lioness over sushi that night. They were both very supportive. After the initial gloating and mocking stage, of course.</div>
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Anyways, I still don't understand exactly what it is about Cap that makes me like him so much; it's been sort of a slow build that defies any rational explanation. He is good-looking, though, and <i>built</i>. And his anachronisms are adorable. I must admit that I'm going to be rather torn, once Civil War is released.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Xh5XxLuMR5Qnr0_G3bYpktNsJCJbGKIWV6zlfk47tZE0GsoRDnEFeY7gvvUI_3O-TGxwSb95w8iUb0asZT_7AQSrPkCPgnvR_BXEtOPDnwz-G40t8neF-TU2xzcvVmhJqq54OKQ11bw/s1600/steve+bike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Xh5XxLuMR5Qnr0_G3bYpktNsJCJbGKIWV6zlfk47tZE0GsoRDnEFeY7gvvUI_3O-TGxwSb95w8iUb0asZT_7AQSrPkCPgnvR_BXEtOPDnwz-G40t8neF-TU2xzcvVmhJqq54OKQ11bw/s320/steve+bike.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There's something to be said for a good-looking guy on a bike...</td></tr>
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When I first designed this square, I had used blue as the main background color, and planned to swap the red for white for the star. The blue and red stripes just didn't work well for me, too dark...Kishi asked if I was making a Spider-Man square at first. Changing the blue for white on the stripes worked better, and is more true to the costume, too. Once I finished the stripes and switched in the blue, Kishi figured it out. A little over half-way, which isn't bad.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEDTHfj3JFD3M_Yb27lwLQqQ_UBz5HKtsluqgqGr7ar9YpdRDmNtdQcmGngWre5UWY_HVsegFFUJ_GpYlIn8cooxjy7b-zhKto05sOWv1EHX3zFFsuRX59QRVnue1NYVV8XrNgr0IEMmM/s1600/IMG_0564.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEDTHfj3JFD3M_Yb27lwLQqQ_UBz5HKtsluqgqGr7ar9YpdRDmNtdQcmGngWre5UWY_HVsegFFUJ_GpYlIn8cooxjy7b-zhKto05sOWv1EHX3zFFsuRX59QRVnue1NYVV8XrNgr0IEMmM/s320/IMG_0564.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The great thing about working in double-sided knitting is that you don't need to worry about weaving in the ends of your yarn. Simply insert a small crochet hook and pull the ends into the "pocket" that forms between the two sides. Just remember to knot them first, to avoid all your hard work unraveling!<br />
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My pattern for this square is found <a href="https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B5Uzsr7iDJCqVlFCUHJRV1dmLXM" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
Dizzyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17004365231418421715noreply@blogger.com0