Grr.

You know what sucks? Finishing your Fetchings and then being not able to find the first. I guess I'll clean the house, but I have a feeling it might have fallen out of my purse somewhere :(

Boo!

Look Out! Here Comes the Spidey Matrix

My friendly neighbourhood Spidey-Matrix. This is a great pattern for wool. I had to kill the acrylic since I was knitting down in needle size and it puckered no matter what tension I did. Oh well. They also catch on my watch and rings, but that's okay. I could probably spin a web, any size in these ;) I would prefer a more rounded top, but hey, these are great for the car.

WHAT have I gotten myself into?

Well, I have a friend who is sick, but very positive. She will come through the big C, and she is the most cheerful person I know. Really. My antithesis I believe. She was commenting on how pretty my scarf was and I told her I was planning on making her something but wanted to hear from her (and not her husband who we see more) on her favourite colours and such.

Lime Green.

No, really. So I figure if I'm going to make this lime green sacrifice, it might as well be cashmere since the Debbie Bliss Pure Cashmere is on closeout at Webs. (p.s., don't try buying all 154 balls on me now!).

Okay, lime green yarn? Check. Almost ordered. Pattern? Er, not so easy. She's NOT a fan of lace, at all. Ben and her husband REALLY want me to mix the colour with something more digestible, but she LOVES lime green, why dilute it? She isn't tomboyish either, so I was thinking maybe cables, but I want it to be done in a good amount of time, aka, this winter. I'm actually at a loss, and not married to the cable thing. I was originally thinking bulky/chunky and fuzzy, so that is another option if I don't want to do the cashmere thing. The only thing it has to be is LIME GREEN.

Yes, I will continue with my daily headaches, and my neurologist will just tell me to stop knitting lime green ;)

Not too "Rustic"

Not very rustic, but I do love these scarves. Well, obviously since I've already knit one and I wanted one for myself! Loosely based on the "Last Minute Knitted Gifts" Mens Rustic Scarf.

It goes with my burgundy Aveline, and also my black Le Slouch. Next up, Matrix mittens!

The week totally slipped by

This week totally slipped by. I had a few posts planned, but I didn't get around to them. Bad me. Oh well. What I really wanted to talk about was the new Knitty. I love it. Wow. I'm going to start Matrix (mittens) as soon as I finish my scarf, which should be today or tomorrow. Then I exchanged my 2 balls of Puffin (bought way too much, and I didn't like the white) from the Baby Uggs for a skein of Kidsilk Haze for Ice Queen. I added a few others to my queue as well. I just really enjoyed the patterns.

Now, to wait for my DH to wake up so I can get to the gym. I'm not waking him up however, so if he sleeps all day and I can't get to my workout clothes, it is all his fault right? Plus, that way I don't have to go to the gym ;) No, I didn't slip him drugs...this time.

Ugg-ly

Here are my baby uggs! Of course, the poor little girl will be almost off to college when they fit. Crystal Palace Puffin rocks, however it is not even close to the same gauge.

Okay, they aren't that big, but they aren't newborn. They are probably 12 month. Hey, she said she was having a big kid! Oh, and she loves them.

Puff!

I finished him last night. I've just been casually knitting, so it took awhile. Very fun, but I already know with the scales, he's going to curl in on himself. Oh well.

Mindy generously gave me the funky cool buttons for his eyes. My favourite part!

So weird

So the girl who has Uggs in my group (for advertising online) is pregnant. It just dawned on me it would be really really funny to knit her the baby ugg-like booties. Plus, the real Ugg booties are going for $50.

Shopping online today I have yet to find a vendor who has the 2 Berroco Suede colours AND carried the Berroco Plush in the cream colour. This means I have to go out and buy the damn yarn. Like, in a store. And I want the original colours because they are "Ugg"y. And that is funny. Because Uggs are the bane of my existence. But hey, Oprah likes em, and we sell the crap out of them so who am I to complain?

Ugh. Really.

Too lazy to sub as well. I went on Ravelry to see what other people were using for subs, and they just weren't, or if they were, it wasn't a stellar sub.

I'm the only knitter who doesn't love yarn shopping in person. Fuck.

You'll have to excuse me I'm not at my best

I've been drunk for a week, I've been drunk since I left...

Sorry. Damn Spirit of the West song stuck in my head. No drunkenness here. Not even sick. Not even knitting...wait that is normal lately. I casually thought about making Ben some superhero coffee cup warmers/holders. I do have a bunch of intarsia patterns that are all over the web, and he does have a Starbucks addiction, so I thought it would be a cute gift.

Plus, I just bought him a 47" LCD flat panel tv.

Uh, ya.

It will be delivered tomorrow. Now, I was trying to talk myself out of it, but on Tuesday I found a 47" 1080P flat panel for under 1k. It was about 50% off and free shipping. I couldn't say no, mostly because I'm getting a Wii for xmas, and uh, ya, I'm pathetic. Hell, he has been asking for a new tv for 2 years now. After measuring I found out we currently have a 27", so I have NO idea how we are going to fit this thing in our house. Well, it will fit, and hell, we can hang it on the wall if we have to, but damn, I shop big. Thank deity for credit.

So knitting a few little gifts seem like a good idea. Plus, my Wii showed up today. And it is sitting there staring at me. But I promised not to plug it in until we get the new tv (tomorrow).

I won't be knitting much, I wonder how many coffee sleeves I can get done 2 hours a week at my regular knitting? Or will I forsake my friends and just invite them over to play? I have Zelda AND a crossbow accessory dammit! I really want Cooking Mama, and My Sims, and all the kiddie games!! Woo!

"Camping" is fun!

So, we had a great time cottaging (which is called pretty much camping down here) this weekend. Knitting, drinking, laughing and so much fun. I'm still liking all the people, and nobody got hurt (besides me pouring hot apple cider down my thumb, and a lot of crying around the camp fire because of the smoke).

We decided to do a group project of "My So Called Scarf". Of course you could work on whatever the heck you wanted, but hey, I stuck to the plan because I'm monogamous like that. So I finished this am when we were waking up. On Friday night when I cast on, I renamed it My So Called FUCKING Scarf, as the pattern is kind of hard to get down. Not really hard, but frustrating when you are tired, and even worse if you want to fix some screw up. The word FUCK was used a lot by us all (or in other not so offensive forms) during at least the first 10 rows.



But here he is in his 60" glory. It did block a bit longer in the end, so I don't feel so bad. Made on size 11s with Cherry Tree Hill Zebra Caribe. Lets just say I'm glad I'm out of this yarn. Blah.

And did I mention it is my Birthday on Wednesday? Woo! The girls were kickass and got me gifties!!



A kickass tote bag (on the bottom) from Kathy, Hempathy in a burgandy colour (my colour lately) from Kara, Berroco Comfort from Kim (I need more of this, yum!) and ultra cool scrapbooking craftiness and such from Mindy (not really a good description, er, whatever).

Yay for birthdays, great friends to hang out with and fun weekends.

Getting ready

I'm about 90% plague free, and I'm getting ready for our knitting weekend. I still have to buy booze (I went to a lame Schnucks for my husband because he "has" to have boars head meat, and I'm damn picky), and figure out how to pack my bedding and crap like that.

I'm still not very far on the dragon scarf. I was too plaguey to want to work on it anyway. I have 5 scales done.

Stuff I'm planning on working on:

My So Called Scarf -made out of either the Cherry Tree Hill I have or my camo yarn.

Mens Rustic Scarf -in burgandy and black to match my coat

Dragon Scarf

Uh, looks like a scarf weekend. I need to get on some mittens too. Or fetchings. Or both. My hands are getting cold.

Sick

Wow, you know you are sick when you don't even want to knit. Figures. I haven't knit really since the beginning of the week. I might stay in today and not infect everyone with my cold.

Figures.

Blah I say.

I might show up to knitting, if even just for the tea. Hrm.

Aveline

Wow, this is a really kickass knit. I didn't do the tublar cast-on, but it would be worth trying. It only took 2 days, so it was the perfect weekend knit. I did finish it on Sunday evening, but I had a funeral yesterday and couldn't wear something new.

I'm looking forward to picking up some more "autumn red" simply soft so I can make a matching scarf!

Kitty Pi(e)

I imagine this is how Bella will use her Kitty Pi. Which is fine. She is laying on it currently behind the chair, which is a really good sign, at least for now. This means we get our couch blanket back.

I used the alpaca I got from a pal along with the rest of my clapotis yarn, and it felts up really darn pretty! It is a bit floppy because I wanted it kind of big, because we have a big cat, and an alpaca yarn shortage in the house. Or, at least alpaca yarn I wanted to give to the cat.

Oh, she's rolling around on it now, how cute!

My Punk Rock Pal

This is the kind of awesomeness you get via the Punk Rock Gift Exchange.

It is so cool from floating skull candles to a handmade wash cloth. As you can see it is kind of overwhelming, but that Interlacements is just so great!! EE!! I needed a photo frame for my work desk, and now I can stamp everything with bunnies (so punk rock in my book!). And check out all the yarn, so much stuff, I feel like a princess.

THANK YOU!!!

I got tagged

Mai tagged me, and since I generally stick to knitting content here, I thought I'd follow through half assed.

rules: once tagged, you must link to the person who tagged you. then post the rules before your list, and list eight random things about yourself. at the end of the post, you must tag and link to eight other people, visit their sites, and leave a comment letting them know they’ve been tagged.

1. I learned how to skate before I learned how to walk. My mom said I was just lazy really, and was cute enough to get away with it.

2. One of my first junior jobs as a web designer was airbrushing naked women for online usage. I got fired because I intimdated the men with my critique of the female form.

3. I was in a professional dance company growing up and was a ballerina until I was 16.

4. My favourite colour growing up was yellow. Yes, yellow.

5. I have played on some Canadian recordings and in a few orchestra pits.

6. My mom was a single mom and had never vacationed with us kids, ever. She would send us with other people or our grandparents as she could never afford to not work.

7. I've never owned a computer personally that wasn't a mac. Since 1992.

8. Piano music makes me really edgy. As in, my heartrate goes up and I get really upset. Which is why it is bad to play piano music in doctor and dentist offices. Ugh.

I'm not going to tag people, because I'm damn too lazy.

You know, my strongpoint used to be common sense.

So I'm shopping around for some varigated non wool yarn for My So Called Scarf. I go local to The Loopy Ewe site to check out what is there, since I hear very good things.

It is really hard to shop for yarn when they don't say what the fiber content is.

No, really.

Especially when wool mistakes can send me running for an epi pen.

So while I would love to support a nice local joint, I have to assume that they pretty much carry "wool" from "sheep" and just nod at my friends when they score some great looking yarn (that I may or may not be able to touch).

(Okay, I can figure out the ones that say MERINO or Alpaca (unless it is a blend I don't know about), but really, the fiber content is way more important to me than where it is hand dyed).

Dear Loopy Ewe,

I'd love to support you, and I'd even buy yarn that wasn't black (really, I swear, at least once), but I'd rather not have a death bomb show up on my doorstep.

Nope, not gonna happen

So I just ripped out my Secret of the Stole. I made a pretty bad mistake, and then each row after for about 8 rows the numbers wern't going well. Then I was looking at those who were really on schedule with the pattern, and I wasn't in love.

So I frogged.

I guess that is what happens when you don't know what you are knitting.

Oh well. I'll find a lace pattern I like. Eventually.

Ma Cherie

I finally finished it. I really lagged on the sleeves, it was just so bulky and I was done with working on it. I love how it turned out! I did do the top half an inch longer, but I could have used a lot more than that honestly. The ribbing goes up a bit over my boobs, but it still looks okay.

It is bulky and I don't feel like a complete whale in it, however it is supposed to be 80 today so I doubt I'll be wearing it long.

Figures.

I feel bad

Work is kicking my ass, so I haven't really had time to blog. Or knit much, really. On Thursday I actually stopped by Hearthstone Knits to pick up some size 11 dpns for my sleeves. So, I've started sleeves.

Haven't worked on the Stole much, I need to finish up last week even before I work this weeks chart. It is okay I guess. Hard to tell so soon.

I probably just need more tea and more time in the day!

Laughing too much

So I got a whole 4 rows of knitting done in the 2 hours I was at sbux yesterday. The conversation was just too interesting! Hahah! Anyway, I came home and finished up the body.

Let me tell you, there is a definite lack of instruction in this pattern. Not that I need line by line text, but trying to match up the lace and decrease and all that was just nitpicky. I ended up knitting an extra inch in the armholes, and if I didn't I'm pretty confident they wouldn't fit my arms. SO weird. The bulky yarn I guess. It is funny because I'm always complaining the armholes are too big. Well, serves me right!

The sleeves are knit flat, but I was considering knitting them in the round top down (therefore reading the instructions backwards). Except that I don't have any size 11 dpns. Whoops. I only have up to 10.5. I'll think of something. I could always magic loop, or 2 circs.

Not much new

So, the ribbing on the damn Cherie Amour kills my hands. 7 more rounds, I need to just suck it up. I've put off knitting this week just because of this!

I started the Secret of the Stole, and I'm already on row 31. I'm taking my time, and looking forward to when I'll be using 1 ball. It has 2 points (I'm assuming on each end) so I'm working 2 charts at once with 2 balls of yarn. Annoying. The beginnings of lace is always fiddly anyway.

Other than the 2 projects (which is killing me btw, I'm breaking rules here), I'm just trying to not sell my soul to Ravelry and get through my day job. Things are insane now. I have to take over my counterparts work by Friday, and uh, that is a LOT. Hopefully she will consider talking to me next week. Uh, ya.

PRGE is fun!

I found out who my SP was today! Melinda totally went overboard and spoiled me rotten. I'm so happy to finally find out who she is, aned look at all the great stuff I got! I have to say that Ben is eyeing the Harry and David tower, but the Moose Munch is ALL MINE.

MUAHA!! Gawd, I'm so addicted to moose munch. I need help. Not in finishing it mind you. You know what I mean.

I'm still on the ribbing of the waist. I guess I should take some WIP pics. I'd need to make a WIP folder on flickr. I'm sure I can do that. I'm so damn lazy.

I broke my Denise

So I was knitting on Sunday, being bummed I couldn't go to knitting (early dinner/late lunch before my husband ran off to a concert). Guess what? My Denise set snapped! I know this has happened a few times (looks at E), but I didn't really think it would happen when it did. I was knitting at a small gauge and there were a lot of stitches to tug. So blam!

Good thing Denise sets can connect together to make new cords. And it broke in ribbing.

Speaking of ribbing, I'm still on the waist ribbing. I haven't really knit since that break on Sunday. The ribbing is annoying because it is at such a tight gauge that it isn't fun. I only have 24 rows of it left, I should just finish it off so I can go back to big needles and lacey stuff.

Wow, I just read this and I feel like a teen wrote it. I've been getting a lot more headaches/migranes lately. As in, every day. Today is pretty bad. I need to get to my new cube so I can knock out the overhead lights. *sigh* That, or I should ask to focus in the teen specialties to market to them online. Because they are so totally cute I'd be moted if they hated them.Um, Like ya.

Gretel

I finished Gretel on Saturday after Strangefolk. Had to stop by Hobby Lobby for more yarn, and used about 200yds for the regular size instead of the stated 150.



I like it, but I like the Cherie Amour yarn I'm working with more. I ordered this online at first, and I didn't know it had the other colours striping through it. Same with the Bernat I'm using for the sweater. They didn't show it. The yellow bits are odd, but kinda funky in this hat. I don't think it detracts too much from the cable work.



The band is really stretchy, and there is no chance of getting hat head with this one. In fact, I might have to tuck a clip on it if it is windy.

Yep.

Ran out of yarn. Bugger. I even made the "regular" version instead of the slouchy.

Figures.

Hoodie Scarf

Hoodie Scarf, from d-made. It was a pretty easy knit. I'm not sure I'm in love with the ribbing that goes along the scarf sides and bottom of the hood, but it is okay. I had 4 skeins more of the shine worsted than I thought I had, so I could of made something a lot bigger.



While I was knitting this I was trying to think of ways to make it not so nipply in the back, but then I just gave up. Now I have a nipple on my head because there are no decrease. It adds character ;)

New Knitty

So I go to the new knitty and see Cherie Amour and ooh and aah. Of course, a bulky knit...which I have been obsessing over. The Handpaintedyarn.com Merino Bulky it calls for is 12 sts per 4". Okay.

But I want to make this now.

I wandered down to Hobby Lobby (it is across from a Target and the husband has been bugging me to buy him socks all week) and they don't have any of the yarn I was thinking of for this damn sweater. Mainly Bernat Black Lites Yarn (in the blue colour), or Patons Rumors. And I didn't notice until today that the gauge on the house "Yarn Bee" yarn is a crochet gauge. WTH?

No yarn was bought, and now I'm kind of at an impasse. Sure, I could buy the "cheap" yarn online, but it isn't all that cheap because the yardage is 60 yds per skein! Or I could get something nice, but if I'm subbing out for 100% wool, it can't be 100% alpaca or cotton because it will droop. So acrylic or an acrylic blend really is my best bet *sigh*. And I've never actually seen/felt this big lights yarn, even though it is bright blue and black I'm still unsure.

I was almost tempted to make it out of homespun, but then I came back to the real world ;)

Subbing is a pain in the ass.

Ravelry

Username: Xanthia

I look forward to seeing you all there!

It was necessary!

So I figured out that all my small sized needles (under 4) are dpns so I didn't have any needles for the secret stole! Oh noes! So after I went out for pancakes with my loving husband (he who pays for said luxuries like pancakes) I stopped by the International grocery store in Kirkwood then to the knitting store.

Of course since I haven't knit a swatch, I didn't know if I wanted size 2 or 3, so I picked up both. Since I'm knitting with alpaca I didn't really want addi turbos (too slippy) so I bought s 24" addi naturas. They better be nice dammit. And the 24s seemed right to me.

Now lets hope that the cat doesn't think the tips are tasty, or I'll have to spend another $13 on a new pair.

Also, there are 22 people in front of me for Ravelry, so I have a feeling I'll be posting my username quite soon!

Secret of the Stole

Since I can't seem to get my act together for the whole mystery stole/shawl thing, I signed up for the Secret of the Stole which is supposedly a lot easier and you won't rip out your hair as much as those "other" lace KALs.

Hey, I got to buy some black misti alpaca lace weight and some beads for it. I just couldn't say no! It figures, I have the knitpicks lace yarns (well, not the wool one, duh), but of course I only have 2, not 3 hanks. And I bought them many moons ago, so no chance on something matching. Hey, I was shopping for my secret pal so it all evened out.

But the KAL doesn't start for awhile. I've started the hood on my hoodie scarf though! I didn't knit last week at all. I do love the feel of this shine worsted, but the yardage kind of bites. 75 yds per skein...no wonder I couldn't find anything for the 6 I had. Sheesh. I might finish it by knitting this week if I actually knit during my time off. Today I had a tattoo removal session, and this wasn't NEAR as bad as laser. It was like, um, getting a tattoo. It did take an hour and a half though (my laser session took about 3 minutes), and I couldn't knit because the woman's husband was chatting with me to take my mind off of the pain and I didn't want to be rude. Though, they were of the "interesting" variety (read: a little nutty) so the conversation was very colourful. Oh yes indeed. I didn't need to bring knitting into that environment. Really.

Me, in a nutshell

My bunny Chucks (THE BUNNIES ARE FUZZY!!), and cupcakes. All I need is a bit of knitting in this photo and it would be complete. Well, minus the half lasered off tattoo.

And this is what you get if you are a coworker! Don't you want to work with me?

I know it is wrong but...

I know it is wrong but I'm really digging chunky knits lately. I know they make a person look huge, but after sitting in the A/C in my Torque for awhile, I want nice big chunky sweaters for the winter.

And then I'll complain that I look like a whale and pout.

But at least I haven't put Twinkle's Big City Knits Book in my shopping cart.

Yet.

I bet I'll end up buying it with my next Borders coupon that my husband donates to the cause.

*sigh*

And then there is the pain of subbing yarns. I guess it is just an excuse to buy some Misti Alpaca Chunky or something. I'm so weak.

Next I'll be knitting a sweater full of bobbles or something. Ugh.

Torque

So this was an okay knit. I'm not in love with it, mainly because of the gorilla sleeves and it was pretty boring. I had a spidey sense tingling as I was knitting the sleeves that they were too long, and I was right. They also don't fit in the armholes amazingly well, but I made it work. This is the size SMALL, believe it or not. Pretty insane. I understand it is a big sweater, but I would have been peeved if I had made my size. I think only used maybe 3 skeins of Simply Soft. Not too sure as I haven't weighed my leftovers, but it looks like that or even less. Which means I have 3 skeins left over. Good thing I like this colour!

*yawn*

There is really never anything to report on progress when you are knitting two stockinette sleeves at the same time. I'm a little over 13" in on them. Woo. The green is getting old, I need something black to knit on.

I think I'm going to do that cabled hoodie scarf out of my shine worsted I thought about in January. Should be nice and cosy, and I have the exact yardage and will use the same yarn. I almost never do that!

Also, Mindy (aka, SHOES) forced me to buy shoes. I swear. I didn't even get a discount (from my new job, they don't seem to carry this pattern). What an enabler. But let me tell ya, they rock!!



Hello, she even included a pic!

Yes, those are bunnies. BUNNIES! YES! On dark purple, not black, but I dig purple. Oh, and she even tracked down the right size. What a friend!

I kinda like knitting in green

Now, don't worry...I'll be back to black soon. But I like green. It is my DH's favourite colour so I tend to get a lot of compliments when I wear green from him. That is never a bad thing.

So, will I actually wear this sweater? I have no idea, but I have a feeling it won't be based on the colour. I'm just not sure on how it will fit. Sure, I made a few sizes smaller, but you never really know until you put it together. I'm not even up to the armholes yet on the front, so it will be awhile until I find out.

I got my new Rebecca on Monday which is great. Well, not as in "great I want to make every single thing" but "great, it got here safe from Germany" great. Um. Ya. There are a few things I really like, but would have to modify. Stupid mags where winter = wool.

PRGE v3 Questionaire

1. Why are you punk?

I'm not. I'm more goth. I like punks. They are keen. They like black yarn too ;)

2. What are your five favorite things? (these don't have to be knit related)

Bunnies, black yarn, chocolate, tea, making soap

3. What are your three favorite things that you have made with knitting/crochet?

Le slouch is going to be worn a lot, clapotis, and I guess my something "red". Okay, I just named my last 3 projects. Sue me.

4. What five things would you love to see in a swap box someday?

A bunny! Haha. No uh, they don't ship well. Black yarn, chocolate, tea, fun stitch markers, fun patterns or patten books

5. What are your three favorite yarns? What are your three least favorite yarns?

Fave: rowan calmer, alpaca from just about anywhere, blue sky alpaca cotton.
Least: anything wool, anything funfur, anything crazy novelty that gets by with being not in the funfur category.

6. What are your five favorite delicacies?

Japanese candies, high end tea, vegan chocolate, yarn (especially when it is an expensive yarn!), french pastilles

7. What are your three favorite guilty pleasures?

Not sure how this is different than delicacies for me. Um, baking cupcakes, buying yarn, splurging on new technologies (like my gps/heart rate monitor for running), watching anime, buying knitting patterns I'll never knit

8. What are the five things you look forward to every week?

The end of the week, knitting on Sundays at sbux, making soap, going out for a nice dinner with the DH and I can't think of a 5th!

9. What do you collect?

Bunnies and black yarn.

10. When is your birthday?

November 14th!

11. Do you have any wishlists?

I have an amazon wishlist under my name and email address. It also has a seperate knitting section. PS: I love used knitting books, the older and weirder the better!

12. What would you like your pal to know that is not covered here?

I am highly allergic to wool and lanolin. Please do not send wool or wool blends in my box.

Busy

So I'm busy at work, and then I pick up a contract on top of that. Uh ya. Stupid me. Anyway, it doesn't leave much time for knitting. Even in the small amount of spare time I have (no running because it is over 100 degrees out at 8pm!) I did manage to finish the back of my sweater and cast on for the front. I'm sure I'll be stabbing my eyes out when I get to the sleeves. Boing stockinette. At least I have a lonely cable to entertain me every 16 rows now.

Not very interesting, or else I'd post a pic.

Le What? Le Slouch!

Okay, I love this thing, and it was such an easy and quick knit. I did do it in seed stitch, mostly because there are some sweaters out in seed stitch and I wanted to remind myself that it is a PITA. Still went quickly though. Oh, the yarn (Berrocco Smart Mohair) pretty much blows. It is scratchy acrylicy, not soft acrylicy. But, that does make for a warm and durable hat. Never make something that is touching your skin out of this stuff! *shudder*



I'm considering making at least one other. Maybe in a blue or something. Hrm!

Finished

I finished Le Slouch, but I wore my hair "wrong" for a good photo to be taken today. I'll do it tonight or tomorrow.

I cast on for Torque, and boy is this going to take a bit of time. I wish I would have figured out how to do it in the round and split for the armholes, because this is going to kill me in plain stockinette on size 6 needles.

Still not sure if I can make it to knitting on Sunday, as we're planning on going to see Stardust after brunch. Or maybe an early dinner, I'm not sure yet. DH never lets me know of the plans ahead of time!

Where is it?

Okay, I bought yarn for Le Slouch (I'm on a Wendy kick I guess) but it isn't here. The perils of online shopping, oh well. And um, it was so impulsive that I don't remember what I bought... other than it was onsale at Webs, and uh, black. Oh, and gauge was right on the ball band.

Hah.

I'm sure it will show up and be a great gift to myself.

I think I'll cast on for Torque. At least do some ribbing or something. My needles feel naked.

[edit] Got the mail, and it was Berroco Smart Mohair. Fuzzy yet acrylic will stand up to the snow ;)

Something "Red" or Grey

This Blue Sky Alpaca Yarn rocks! It goes to the top of my faves list. I was assuming it would shrink up like my swatch, but it didn't shrink very much at all. Which is unfortunate because the raglan in my size is just too long. I should of made the smallest, as it is kind of baggy (even with decreases) in the pitts. Grr. I have an extra inch or so. I just like things fitted. Oh, and my gauge was off, so it ended up kind of big overall, but that isn't a problem as it is meant to be worn over things.

Other than that, it is a good pattern, besides me messing up the short rows. The instructions didn't make sense to me, especially when hiding the wraps since I was wrapping the same stitch each time. Now, I've done short rows before, but never wrapped the same stitch, so it was um, weird. I think I just read it wrong.

Drought

I haven't knitted since Sunday. Whoops. Anyway, this morning I bound off the ribbing and picked up stitches for the neckline. I'm unsure. I split them evenly, but I don't know if that was wise with the ribbing, since I had to cram some near the top, and spead some out with the bottom. Hrm. I guess I have to wait until I do the whole damn thing as my circs aren't long enough to see how it lays (since I didn't use my denise set, figures).

I'm also unsure why I need the short rows. I'm not convinced they are needed. Do I really need the back of my sweater to be 1.5" taller than the rest of the band? Not convinced. It just seems like a pain to wrap and turn, and hide the wraps for something that will never be seen since I normally wear my hair down. I'm more concerned about the buckling that might be caused by my picked up stitches than a modified collar though.

I'm thinking way too much into this.

Mini Punk Rock Gift Exchange

My pal kicked ass. Look at that pretty Debbie Bliss! Yummy!!!



Yes, they are bunny stitch markers. I squealed when I opened them....UBER CUTE!! I think I like bunnies WAY too much. Thank you so much Stephanie, you were a pleasure to spoil and get to know.

Very grey.

This is grey on grey. Stupid work carpet. I would have taken a more cheery photo, but well, I'm at work. This is at cheery as it gets around here. Now my office mate (who is a graphic designer) fully knows I'm a bit crazy. As if this was the first sign! *rolls eyes*

Moving right along

So after week 1 of knitting this sweater, I'm still liking it. Oh, and it knits up fast. I'm really suprised. I think I'm around half way done, but I'm not really good at guestimating. I'm into the waist ribbing. I love this damn yarn too. It is so yummy!

I have no idea how it is going to turn out, since I'm sort of doing my own thing with it, but I think it will be okay. At least I still like the colour.

Getting ready to hopefully send out my PRGE package soon. I have a skull to make for a client so that means I'll HAVE to go to the post office. And there was something I was supposed to pick up at the mall for DH (the post office is in the mall) but now I can't remember what it is. Hrm. Makes me think I should email everything to my phone at times like this! I know it probably isn't yarn ;)

Binary

I finally finished the Binary scarf. I did it in Caron Simply Soft because it was going to a guy (my husband) and we have issues finding yarn one of us isn't allergic or sensitive to. Plus, this thing will withstand the slush and dirt that comes with winter... I can pop it in the washer. Nothing like a thick warm scarf for July!



Hey look! There are flower things growing in my front "garden"! Cool!



We also have a bush and an old weathered bench. Exciting.

Math is hard.

Okay, it is 7am and I'm not awake. Can we go over some math? I'm not getting gauge in this cotton, and I washed and dried the swatch.

I don't want to go below a size 6 needle. I'm getting 4.5" per 18 sts in width, but my row count is on (which is great, means it shrunk up .25 and grew .25 inches).

So if I made the 32" bust, that is 8 4" sections. Add the extra .5 8 times (4") and I should get a 36" bust.

Right?

Also, when I'm measuring in length remember to add .25 for shrinkage (or pull it out of the dryer before it fully drys, haha).

That math makes sense right? I'd love to actually wear this, I love the yarn! I guess I'll cast on in the next few days. I'll post photos of the binary scarf when I get to work, I need some breakfast!

Finished

I finished the binary scarf, but forgot to take a photo this morning. Doh! Oh well. I started a swatch for the cardigan, but it looks like I have to go down a needle size. And damn, this cotton is amazing! Yum!



I can't get the damn colour right!

Ruffle Stole

I'm never afraid to post a crappy photo when it has knitting in it. Don't mind me, trying to smile as I have throbbing shooting pains going up and down my neck and shoulder. I got a really bad kink/pull when I was sitting down. Yes, I got injured sitting down.



The Ruffle Stole from Lionbrand.com. Made with probably 1 skein of Cherry Tree Hill Zebra Caribe. Just an fyi, this stuff bleeds. Wow, my once cool skull towel is now kind of ruined. Oh well. It only took a few days. It biased on the ends, but it is kind of cool that way. Silly cotton.

Now I'm 95% done with my binary scarf too. Yes, I'm going back to one project at a time, I can't take the distractions!

I'm so proud!

So last night I DID go home and rip out the damn Cherry Tree Hill. It was craptastic going and I lost some yarn out of frustration as it is wound really loose. Anyway, it was also hard going as I got my yummy Blue Sky Alpaca Cotton in the mail and some Rowan DK Cotton in a pretty pretty spruce green colour.

But I had already resolved myself to use the damn CTH. So I surfed around a bit and found the very very easy "Ruffle Stole" on the LB website. Basic lace with a ruffle on each end. So I cast on for that and started it last night. I have 18" out of 64" done from watching TV. This will be a nice quick knit as well. Since it is cotton I'm really hoping it will block out nice and big! I'm liking it so much better, and it is mindless enough for watching TV.

That Damn Blue Sky Alpaca is really really nice. The perfect colour too. I can't wait to start on that, and now I'm itching to start on the Central Park Hoodie. This is a new itch, as I didn't fall in love with it when I first saw it since I was already planning on making Rogue. This is way easier, and still has a great finished result. Not that I pick projects because of how easy they are...but it is motivation for me lately. Maybe I'll get some of that Charcoal Cotton Ease for it. Hrm. I do love Cotton Ease and I haven't gotten any of the "new" stuff yet. I have no idea how much I need. Then again, my Something "Red" will be grey...hrm. I'll have to think about it. It won't be in Alpaca, way too warm.

I can't do it.

I can't bring myself to knit anything on that damn binary scarf. I played The Sims instead. So I'm going to rip out my Cherry Tree Hill Wrap when I get home. Yes, it is almost done, that completely sucks. However, it is way too wide and doesn't have enough height, and I just don't like it. It hasn't told me what it wants to be, but I have a feeling it will be a plain bulky scarf just to get it out of the way. The colours are just too "crazy" and variegated (for someone who knits in all black) to show up pattern, so it might be a moot point to try.

I mean, it is pretty yarn and all, but this is what happens when I buy yarn without a project in mind. Oh well. I can't believe I'm almost done this project too...what a bitch to rewind all that yarn!! It barely fit on my ball winder the first time. Ugh.

I've worn my Clapotis around the office for 2 days now, and I have to say I LOVE it. Wow. It rocks. If I ever made a pattern again it would be this one. However, I'm still reminded of how dull it is, so that won't be in the near future at all.

Clapotis

Here is the finished Clapotis. Taken by Ben in pretty much the dark. Grr. However, out of the million self portraits I took, this one lightened up was the best of the bunch. So sad. Anyway, it is made out of 100% prime alpaca. I had no pattern problems, but removed one width increase. It turned out to be quite long, which is good and a great width. I blocked it because the ends were bugging me. Now it has much more drape than loft.

Thank goodness!

I finished my clap, I'll take a photo soon. I need to decide if I will block it out. I kind of like it curly, but I'm not in love with the ends curling. Maybe I'll snap something tomorrow morning and see what you all think. It isn't as cushy soft as some of my other Alpaca, which is kind of a bummer. However, it should keep the chill away.

What a great fun project. Now I have 17 more repeats of my damn binary scarf.

I think I'll just play The Sims instead ;)

Mini PRGE

Okay, I joined the Mini Punk Rock Gift Exchange. It should be fun!!

1. Why are you punk?
I'm not, I'm more goth. Punk does rock mind you. I do have a few punk Sims...hah!

2. What are your five favorite things? (these don't have to be knit related)
Bunnies, black yarn, chocolate, baking, Fluevogs (shoes)

3. What are your three favorite things that you have made with knitting/crochet?
I'll have to go with my diagonal scarf (easy and fun to wear), the puppy slippers I made for my boss' baby, and the skull and crossbone hat/scarf for my brother.

4. What five things would you love to see in a swap box someday?
Black yarn, punk-themed stitch markers, tea (or chocolate in non-melty months), black yarn, fun patterns (even if they are just copies!)

5. What are your three favorite yarns? What are your three least favorite yarns?
Top 3:
Calmer
Blue Sky Alpaca (and cotton, yum!)
Cotton modal blends

Bottom 3:
Wool
Wool blends
Wool

6. What are your five favorite delicacies?
I guess tea and chocolate. Multiply that by the appropriate number.

7. What are your three favorite guilty pleasures?
Baking sweets, buying expensive yarn and not knitting it, Fluevogs

8. What would you like your pal to know that is not covered here?
I'm deathly allergic to wool, please don't include it in my package. Or else I'll have the medics report you as a bad swapper ;)

Well, that was quick.

So I'm almost done Clapotis. Well, I'm done with the straight bits and I'm on the decreases, which is a good sign. I'll probably be blocking it on Sunday, therefore knitting on my Binary scarf. I guess I jinxed myself. Hah!

Oh, I was envious of Nicole's Blue Sky Alpaca Cotton on Sunday, so I bought some in Graphite (read: not black!! and I had a choice and could have gotten black, but I didn't!! Go me!) to make Something Red. Okay, it will be "Something Not Red" or "Something Grey" because I really want a nice grey cardigan. I have a pretty crummy one I bought at Goodwill I've been hanging on to, so this is definetely an upgrade.

But I can't start it until Webs gets me my darn order! So looks like I'll be knitting some binary or ripping out that damn sideways shawl that is just the wrong proportions. Figures.

Coming along

I totally forgot to snap a photo this morning of my Clapotis. Of course, it would probably only look like a black blob anyway, but it is my warm black blob ;)

Now that I'm almost done with the straight section I'm starting to get jittery. Not because of this project, but because of my next project. I don't know what it will be. That is just plain weird. I have a HUGE list of things to do, but nothing that I'm itching do to (or finish, shut up about the damn binary scarf already. hehe!).

I did say I was going to get some Calmer to start Fifi, but then again I'd have to go out to a yarn shop *gasp*. And would I wear it? I don't really wear anything I make besides the scarves and such.

Okay, who am I kidding? I've already come to terms with the fact that I don't wear what I knit. I'm okay with that. I like the process. Anyway, if I don't decide, I'm going to have to do a few refresher rows on my binary scarf. I have until the winter to finish it anyway :P

I know you won't believe it.

I know you won't believe it but I actually came through on things.

1. I cast on for Clapotis. I'm currently on the 4th repeat row of the straight section

2. I went to knitting.

Yes! I truely did miss it. It is just so easy to brush it off on a Sunday, but I was very happy I made it and I got to see both new people (who you know, started with the group over 8 months ago..heh) and familiar faces. It was really great.

Now, hopefully I'll knit more this week, post a photo, and gosh darnit, maybe make it to knitting again in the next 8 months or so ;)

Okay, I'm casting on tonight

I'm really not into my binary scarf, I don't want to finish my cherry tree hill wrap, so I'm going to start a clapotis. Yes, I know, I know.

THIS is why I never do more than 1 project at a time! I'm also interesting in Fifi, but I'll need to invest in some Calmer for that. And will I actually get back into knitting from this hiatus?

Maybe the clap isn't the thing to get back into the swing of things with. I don't know. I've always wanted one, but was too lazy to knit one. It will probably end up being a mini clap, as soon as I can decide what stash yarn to use!

Hell, I *might* even go knitting on Sunday! Sheesh, wouldn't that be odd!

I'm not dead

I've just been fighting with my fridge for 3 weeks. So right when I decide to go knitting on Sunday, I find myself yelling at my husband at 3pm in Sears. I still think the fridge we bought is too big.

Maybe I need to start knitting again to calm the hell down. But I'd really like to stop losing expensive hippy food to the refrigerator gods. So on Tuesday we'll have a happy new fridge (there better be no issues, or I will stab someone)and maybe I'll pick up my knitting.

Maybe.

At least my arms are feeling better!

No knitting

I do plan on knitting again sometime soon, however I'm in too much pain right now. Old injuries are acting up and I just have to wait through them a bit.

However, I would like my shawl finished soon, this office is killing me with cold! Brr!

Not MY $50.00!

So we went to a book fair this weekend, and and didn't really find anything. So we wandered around to some used bookstores (my husbands hobby is books, writing and reading). At our regular used bookstore, I scored on knitting books! They RARELY have knitting books. So I picked up a few, and then I saw a cute one, Fancy Feet. I looked at the price and it was $50.00! Er, I'm one of the few knitters that doesn't love knitting socks, so why would I pay $50.00 for a sock book? I mean, it was pretty cool, but not worth that. I get home and yes, that is pretty much the going price.

Now, I'm the first one to admit I own The Principles of Knitting, however I only paid $15.00 for it. And honestly, I never use it. I'm more of a pattern book girl, as opposed to a technique girl.

I guess I could say "yay for a used book seller being educated!", but honestly I go to used bookstores to score deals, not what I can buy them for online. I did buy more than I usually would since I was supporting a local business, but I did pick and choose. I got Knit Mittens!, Knit Hats!, and Vogue's Knitting on the go Scarves.

So even if I didn't pick up the $50 sock book I'll never use, I know I can just put that money towards a nice Barbara Walker book ;)

Oh, and if you really want this book, it is at Pattons on Manchester. So go buy it just so I don't spend the money.

Images always help a blog

My Cherry Tree Hill wrap. I'm doing it length wise, so each row takes a bit (okay 200 sts). I'm over half done the first skein. I think I'm going to weave some black ribbon in the drop stitches ala Knitty's Bob + weave, however mine being easier. Things don't have to be complicated. Not that B+N is complicated... you know what I mean.

I also think I should have at least double YO'd the drops but hey, I didn't. I'll just get thinner ribbon. Also, it is cotton, and it is going to grow when I block it. THAT is a given.

ADD? Nah.

Okay, I've been exhausted. Work is still kicking my butt. I can watch tv, but I don't even have the energy to knit. I haven't been to the gym in 2 weeks, so you KNOW I'm tired.

I'm on the cold side of the building. It has to be an ice box on our side, so that the other side gets luke warm. Also, my window in my office doesn't open. I'm tired of being covered in blankets.

So I think I need a shawl. And I think I need to use this:



Cherry Tree Hill, Zebra Caribe (556 yds) 14 sts per 4"

I was thinking a plain drop stitch shawl, but anyone have any other brilliant ideas? I think I want something rectangular. It is pretty busy, so I don't think most patterns would suit this yarn. And no I haven't started Fern yet. And no, I'm not done my scarf yet. I figure if it is on big needles I won't have time to get bored on a simple pattern.

Inspired

I get so inspired to knit when I am at work. Then, I get home and cook dinner (no time to sit down!), eat, digest for 30 minutes, head out to the gym, come home and take a shower, and then it is almost bedtime.

Where is the knitting time?

When I'm awake enough, I do 30 minutes in the am, but lately that hasn't been happening. Of course then when I get to work I'm awake and all about creating something fun. If I take a lunch or a break it will push my leaving time more, pushing the rest of my evening schedule out of whack.

So I sit here and wish I could knit.

At least I'd be productive.

I will finish that damn scarf. Eventually...

Books!

I got 2 books this week. Amazon is pissing me off though, so I might have to resort to other means for future books. Anyway...

Fitted Knits:

Run out and BUY THIS. This book rocks. The only issue I have with it is that some of the patterns look like they are just simple mods of the other ones in the book, kind of like filler. But the patterns are worth buying the book for. It is definetly my style.

No Sheep for You:

Um, there is no wool in this book. That is my list of positives. I think out of all the projects in the book, I would maybe make the scarf. I'm just not into the patterns. They seem....eh. But I'm not returning it because I want to support the whole "no wool" thing. I might regift it when I realize I will NEVER use it, or maybe I'll see a finished project and it will wow me. I'm doubting it. The patterns are kind of every day, and don't look fun to knit. Besides a crazy sweater that gives me a headache to look at. Oh, the info is good, but I buy books for patterns really.

Dear lord.

Okay, so I'm browsing the new knitty, and I see Torque. So pretty, so wearable! So..... 15 skeins for a medium? Okay world, that is 2040 yds and about $120 dollars.

Colour me cheap.

The scary thing is that it is like half the price of calmer. Ugh. If I make this, it will be out of my trust Simply Soft. Because well, I don't wear my handknits enough to spend that much on yarn. Unless I knit it for someone else, then a splurge is worth it.

And now, for a knitting picture

Just a little bit of proof that I knit. Row 22/60. Major yawn. Ugh.

Nevermind

I found this. And I'll be using the Spun Bamboo yarn I have. If it works in silk, it pretty much will work in bamboo. At least I think so. I ordered more (needed another skein, ordered 2) so all should be good. And hey, if the black dyelots don't work out, I'll just dye em again.

Gotta love knitting in black!

Too busy keeping warm to take pictures!

My LionBrand Baby scarf and mitts. I have been wearing them constantly (well the scarf, the mittens turned out a bit big and it isn't that cold out). I'm suprised on how much I like the scarf. Big and bulky, and warm.

Hey, they got me through a move in a snow storm. Can't be all bad.

Now I need a new project. I feel that the hooded scarf is just too winter. I did a repeat on the binary scarf, so I'm on 14/60. So slow.

I'm so embarrassed.

Okay, so I haven't been knitting much. If you read my knitting blog (or lack thereof) you can figure that out. It is either I'm not knitting, or I'm knitting so much that I don't have time to document my flurry of needles and yarn. I'm too much of a finished project ho to not show off, so it is the lack of knitting.

Anyway, I'm trying to be witty here. To make up for something sick I need to just spit out. I need to just do it. It won't be the obvious part of the sentence that makes me embarrassed either.

I am having a great time knitting a garter stitch scarf in homespun.

Lets look at this:

great time + knitting = duh! Of course
garter stitch scarf = I've never knit one before. It is actually not so bad on size 15s with doubled yarn! It is kind of fun.
homespun = dread, but it isn't that bad. I'm more embarrassed of knitting a garter stitch scarf on size 15s!

So yes, instead of knitting my mittens mate (which was in my bag) I am 90% done a garter stitch scarf. It will be done by the time the "wintery mix" hits us.

I'll still finish the mitten, but right now, simplicity is rocks my socks!

Oh bother.

So it has been bone chilling cold in St. Louis. Okay, I know it is worse up north, but come on...cold is COLD. So cold my husband stole my car mittens (that steering wheel is cold in the am!) and I had to pull out my too small mittens.

This morning I vowed to use my crappy baby homespun to make some mittens and a scarf that would keep a tropical bird warm. Because really, I'm not going to use it for something cool or innovative, and I just bought too much.

And today it is BALMY out. Yes, it snowed last night, and was cold. Today, sunny and 43. I haven't started on my hooded scarf. This is a fast project, but it got warm! How am I supposed to be inspired to use leftover violet and white homespun when it isn't even that cold out anymore?

I REALLY need to send out my soap of the month. I really need to pack. I really need to make March's soap. I really need to pack! I really need to sleep through the night and for work to calm down a bit.

I REALLY need to knit!

At least I got the yarn and needles out!

So I found my Shine Worsted in my black pile and pulled out some needles. This is progress when you are trying to motivate yourself to pack. I packed all my knitting books, and just realized I packed my new Rebecca! Doh! It will end up at the new place before we move officially anyway, and I'll dig it out for knitting.

We close tomorrow on our house, and I become a yankee on Friday. My life is full of ups and downs! Hah!

Maybe, just maybe!

I'm finally migrated to the new blogger. Sheesh!

So I haven't been knitting, therefore not blogging. But you know what? I need to knit. It does help with my mood. I also need to start packing, so knitting would be great procrastination.

I've been not liking any of my hats that aren't my big blue and black bunny hat that is fun fur and fleece. And it can be a bit dorky, just like me. Also, it is a bit too warm for your average winter day.

So I have 6 skeins of Knitpicks Shine Worsted. I think I'll make a Hoodie Scarf (warning, link to a pdf). What? Me knit with the recommended yarn? I know, it is quite weird for me too.

I like cables, and this is pretty neat as you knit each side at the same time. A bit more concentration for me as I can't even knit 2 stockinette sleeves at the same time without messing up, but we'll see how it goes. It is an easy scarf, and I might actually use it!

Sorry for the lack of updates

I got hit by a monster cold. I'm still a bit sick. Also, Raven, my bunny passed away. She had a seizure around 5:30am on Tuesday morning and she died in my lap as I tried to call the emergency vet. I'm pretty upset about it. I didn't know how old she was since I rescued her off the street, but I still wish I could have done more.

So ya, not much knitting. Not even with the skeins she used to like to play with. Blah. I think I might just have to abandon this stupid binary scarf. It isn't very interesting.

So if I rip, abandon or UFO this....what the hell should I knit next? I think I might by some bunnyhop yarn, in black. In memory :(


Raven loved laundry (well hopping in the basket and tossing it out on the floor). RIP little one.

I had to trash her blankie and everything, incase it was a bad viral infection that could have been passed to the kitty. Bummer. It was all tore up anyway, but it is still sad.

I just gotta do it

Update on blogger: Still can't change because of one of the blogs I run or am part of. @*%(!)*&. Worst changeover EVER.

ANYWAY.

I've just gotta knit. I know part of it is because I'm knitting a scarf, and well, those are dull. I just gotta pick it up and knit every day. And get inspired by something else to knit. I really want to do some afghans, but come on, if I can't handle a scarf right now, I KNOW I can't mentally handle that. Duh.

So, tonight inbetween winding down (sitting down for 10 minutes)/cooking dinner/going to the gym/showering and all that other stuff like taking care of pets and boys I will knit a bit. I have seemed to have taken up my knitting time with getting fit and eating better which is good, but damn it takes a lot of time. I've also been fighting off the plauge. I felt really barfy yesterday. I bet it is from knitting withdrawl.

I need something to look forward to knitting. I need to go pick up the new Knit.1. I like that ribbed mini sweater looking thing.

2006 Finished.

I definitely go through spurts. Here is my list of finished items for 2006. I haven't knit in weeks! It feels so weird, but I'm just on hiatus. Oh well. I hope this new year brings more inspiration to me. I’m quite bored with my current project, but there is no need to hurry up and finish it since I see nothing amazing on the horizon to knit. Hrm. Winter blahs I guess.


January 2006

• Knit Cthulhu
  
• Skull Mittens
  
• Wavy Gravy, SnB Nation
  
• Womb, Knitty.com
  
• Compassionate Cub
  
• Danica, Knitty.com
  
• Eternal Embrace, AntiCraft
  
• Grey Kitty

February 2006

• Kittyville Hat, SnB
  
• Fabulous Lace Inset Cardigan, Sweaterbabe.com

March 2006

• Cabled Fingerless
  
• Ropes and Ladders Scarf

April 2006

• Cabled Tank Top
  
• Panta
  
• Kitty Toys
  
• Kate Gilbert Bunny
  
• Honeymoon Cami

May 2006

• Green Gables
  
• Anthropologie Inspired Caplet
  
• Baby Hats
  
• Pink Dishcloths

June 2006

• Blue Star Dishcloth
  
• Bats in the Belfry
  
• Star Discloth Redux

September 2006

• Glampyre Simple Knit Bodice

October 2006

• Beatknit Bell Sleeve Shrug
  
• Kyle's Kap
  
• Puppy Slippers
  
• Grace
  
• Diagonal Scarf
  
• Zonda's Fixation Socks

November 2006

• "Plaid" (black for me) Mittens
  
• One Row Scarf
  
• One Row Wrist Warmers
  
• Amelia Earhart Aviator Cap
  
• Fluffy Skinny Scarf

December 2006

• Headline News
  
• Minimalist Funnel Neck
  
• Camera Pouch