Pattern: Paisley Flower Shawl - IK Spring 04
Yarn: Jaggerspun Zephyr in Cinnabar, ~ 1200 yards
Needles: US 5 24" circulars

Comments:
The pattern was PAINFUL, as in very boring, not much there, please let it be done. I enjoyed the paisley portion but everything else was quite boring. Don't get me wrong this is a great pattern for the beginner, and I guess I should have given myself more credit 'cause I needed more of a challenge.

I'm ready for the next step in lace knitting something harder and more interesting. I have a few patterns from Fiddlesticks and the Folk Shawls book to think about. I'm think the Kimono Shawl, Lily of the Valley and others. Anyways here's the pics...click on image for larger picture

Here it is the recently finished UFO:

Snakes and Ladder Stole
Pattern: Katie Knits
Yarn: JaggerSpun Zephyr in Pewter, ~600 yards
Needle: US 5

And....I'm almost done with the Paisley Shawl...I'm binding off the picot edge right now....yippee!!!

The Snakes and Ladder stole is done!! I say done! Yes, after many months just sitting around being knitted here and there I just bit the bullet and finished it up over the holiday. This project began during my Germany trip last September! Can you believe it?

I just hate having UFOs laying around taking up space and give me bad looks. So, I said f* it I'll take it with me to Charlottesville. And so I did and now I can pass it on to the next owner my Mother.

And Charlottesville. What can I say about this lovely area? We stayed here for two days. Relaxed, knitted, ate and slept. In that exact order. While in Charlottesville I stopped in at A Stitch in Time and The Needle Lady. Both are nice places but not as cool as KH. I do have to say though both places have a great selection of patterns. In fact, A Stitch in Time had a box full of them for $2 each. I grabbed a few patterns and pattern magazines to add to the stash. Funny thing no yarn came home with me! I was tempted at The Needle Lady but frankly nothing was that great.

Oh and speaking of patterns...my Amazon order has arrived! I'm trying to use up my AMEX gift card and thought book purchases would be a good way to round out things. I got Folk Socks, Big Girl Knits, Knitting Nature, and Barbara Walker's 1st Volume.

My next purchase is more circular needles and wooden needles. But first I've got to locate an online or brick and mortar shop that takes AMEX, with a good selection of items....looking...

I know I promised I would be at KH last Wednesday but this time the family got in the way. The inlaws from Maine came down to visit and see my lil' niece on her 2nd bday. Dinners and get togethers got scheduled and next thing I know it's Sunday morning.

What have I been doing you ask? Well more of the same thing. I can't seem to finish any projects and it's driving me insane! I see all of these cool things out there and I'm just bored with my current projects. But I must finish them! I must!!

Here's my current WIP list:

-- Peasant sweater using Green Mountain Spinnery yarn --- forever on hold! This pattern is cool but damn it the gauge is totally off and I refuse!! to do a gauge swatch for stockinette esp. when the pattern is so freaking simple. I will have to use this yarn elsewhere. I may need to buy more yarn and possibly use for Rogue

-- Lance socks for the DH....one done, one half way there...boring...and I need to improve my color work skills

-- Ladders and snakes stole, pattern here - I'm using Jaeger Zephyr in Pewter

-- 90% done with Paisley Flower Shawl - I had to do some serious tinking on this one...and basically lost several rows. Ouch!!!

A new project I started last week...

-- Jaywalker socks using Trekking XXL for hubby, I was going to make them for me but damn gauge is huge so he gets them. One sock is almost done.

Shopping List for MSWF
The list is ever growing...more fiber, yarn, tools, patterns, soap, etc. I can not wait! I know others have started their lists...Erin has...anyone want to share theirs?

Another place I want to visit is Carolina Homespun.

Coming up for air...need to gather my thoughts and wishes for this year's MSWF.

Vendors to Visit

Amer. Cormo Sheep Assoc: OUTSIDE E04
Brooks Farm Fibers: OUTSIDE
Dyed Dreams: BARN 3 03
Golding Ring Spindles: MAIN C23
Greenwood Hill Farm: BARN 6 08
Haltwhistle Fibres: MAIN D17
Hatchtown Farm: Outside E14
Hunt Valley Cashmere: MAIN B15
Kimmet Croft Fibers: BLDG 1 16
Levin & Raja: BARN 3 13
The Merlin Tree: Barn 3 02
Mohair in Motion: OUTSIDE E16
Potosi Sheep/Persimmon Tree Farms: OUTSIDE S03
Spirit Trail Fiberworks: MAIN A 30
Tess' Designer Yarns: OUTSIDE S13
Three Waters Farm: MAIN B23
Wild Meadow Angora: MAIN A20
Woodchuck Products: MAIN D32

Things to buy or see

Spinning accessories: orifice hook, carder, woolee winder, spindle, and swift

FIBER! and fleeces, all kinds but the softer the better: Merino, BFL, Cormo, Angora, Mohair, Alpaca, Silk, etc.

Yarn: laceweight, handdyed, handspun

Spinning equipment auction

Soaps!

Interesting...

Fibers by Bonnie Dunn: Barn 3 06

Anyone else have suggestions?

I have about 500-600 yards alpaca spun up for the DH's sweater and I'm thinking of making a cycling sweater for him. I want a snug and lightweight sweater nothing too bulky. On average I'll need about 1200 yards for aran/worsted weight.

Here's some ideas:

http://www.helloyarn.com/cyclingaran.htm

http://www.magknits.com/Oct05/patterns/durrow.htm

http://knitty.com/ISSUEfall04/PATTleo.html

http://www.debbieblissonline.com/books/sf/sf_10.htm

http://www.debbieblissonline.com/books/sf/sf_15.htm

Does anybody know of others?

From today's Daily Candy awesome organic scarves. Check out the cool textures. And yesterday I figured out that Daily Candy is now in DC. Awesome! News for the hip if you didn't know.

Knitting, you ask? Oh lordie! I'm trying. I'm focusing on the DH's basketweave pullover, and this has been on the back burner for quite some time. I'm also being called by my wheel to spin up some yummy angora!!! And....I keep haunting ebay for more fiber! Damn woman stop!

Ok, enough. More pictures soon.

I'm done with seaming and felting the bunny.

Project details:

Pattern: Fiber Trends
Yarn: Cascade 220 and Jo Sharp Mohair
Needle: US 10 1/2

Now as you'll soon see from the photo his feet are a bit long and that's because I made the mistake of using Debbie Bliss Chunky Merino not knowing it wouldn't felt. I've had to cut out his pads and sew on some felt fabric. I'll soon be adding his nose and eyes.

Check him out

I've also started my Ruffles scarf using two colors of Cotton Fleece. This is the pattern from Scarf Style. I'll be switching to the second color after the first skein is done. Pretty, huh?

And last but not least I leave you with a photo of the Queen lounging around...do you see how she has claimed the futon?

He's not hopping just yet...see before seaming and felting:

Tomorrow you'll see him all done.

Spinning
Remember last Fall, when I bought that gorgeous cashmere angora fiber? Well, here it is processed and mixed with merino and silk. I'm spinning it up now and will be done soon. Projects? Hhmmm I'm thinking something lacey.

I'm cursing my sweater right now. After much debate and consultation with the expert, I've decided not to rip back my sleeves NOPE I'll be CUTTING them. Yup, you heard it here. Now wait don't run so fast outta here. The problem is the sleeves were knitting length wise not from top to bottom which makes ripping out impossible. I'll be tackling this surgery next week...I think. Maybe it will be a KH late night project.

In other news, I see I've promised to show you gals many things and haven't. For example, my jewelry and things I was going to sell off so that I could buy a spinning wheel. Well, the jewelry viewing is on hold until my site launches and DH said I didn't have to sell my belongings to buy the wheel. Pheeww...thank goodness. And yes, I've already bought it.

Speaking of spinning and fiber I wish I had a camera with me yesterday when I caught Pikachu aka el Diablo, eating my roving straight from the spinning wheel. Little rascal was so malicious about it, kept on looking at me as I chased him around the house. Do you think he liked it because it was mostly angora?

Projects update

Shawl - I've started the paisley repeats and have a ways to go. When I have something substantial to show you I'll post it.

Socks - I'm on the numbers and taking my time.

Bunny - I'm knitting another bunny that will be felted and given away at the end of the month. Pics soon I promise!

I couldn't help myself and cast on for "Ruffles" yesterday using Interlacements Montana. I knit about 5 inches worth and realized this yarn is not going to work! There's too much drape in the mohair/wool/silk combo, I really need something more stiff like the cotton that was used. Damn! I could use a wool/cotton mix but nothing too fancy. Back to the drawing board.

This is how I'm feeling right now:

Happy and sad at once. Happy for new yarn to purchase and sad for my pocketbook.

And yes, this is a Margaret Keane print/painting. I love her stuff.

AAAhhhhhh, finally! The sweater is blocking after much tweaking. It turns out my gauge was off and my sleeves turned out five inches too long. Yikes! As you'll see from lovely picture it's peacefully resting waiting to dry.

Click on pic for larger image

I can't wait for it to dry and see if my shaping aka forcing has made a difference in shrinking the sleeves a bit.

Up Next
I've started DH's Tour de Lance socks and I'm eyeing the "Ruffles" pattern from Scarf Style for my Interlacements Montana purchase. I think the colors and texture would be loads of fun on this. I was also thinking of a Mobius scarf but would like a little spice for it. Don't know.

Any thoughts?

On my last portion for Dolman and it's KILLING me. I said to myself "start an easy project" especially after that loooooonnnggg stole you knitted for your mother. And so I did and now I'm bored to death. I must finish this sweater so I can start some other lively projects.

In the meantime, to entertain you and me! Here's some pics, first it's my new Schacht spinning wheel...gorgeous, eh?

In order to reduce some of fiber stash I've decided to purchase a spinning wheel...the hand spindle is not fast enough to crank this stuff out. I also would like to explore spinning up some yarns and selling them at the local consignment store (same place I have my jewelry).

So...which one to get? Lendrum, Schacht, or Kromski? I know they're all different but what's the best value? This will be my bday present to me. Yippee!

Birthday Gifts & RAOKs
Speaking of birthday gifts I'm 95% done with my mom's gift. I'm knitting a lovely stole from Knitty. I'll put a picture up when I'm done.

Long way overdue are thank you's to the following ladies for the wonderful RAOKs I've received the last several months...yes months and I'm now just getting around to it. I've been meaning to say hi and thank you but time flies and never have the cards in front of me when I think to do it. Except for today!

Thank you to Maryellen, Chrisse, Marina, and Tori, for your wonderful gifts!

My first scarf made just for me!

Pattern: Monette, Rowan Vintage Style
Yarn: KidSilk Haze, US 4

This is the lightest, most beautiful thing I've ever knitted! I swear!!!

Purchases
Ok, here's the haul from Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival. I present to you...

Fluffy balls from Wild Meadow Angora:

Three Waters Farm mohair yarn, and wool/mohair fluffly fiber

More yummyness from Three Waters

Dyed mohair locks from Three Waters

From Tess' Designer Yarns

Here's what I'm using for knitted gift...Frill

This is one lovely hank of Kaalund's Expression in Waterlily. Gorgeous 100% kid mohair, lace weight yarn. Purchased at KnitHappens...now don't buy up everything I need to get some more.

I'll be posting jewelry pieces I've made and have for sale in the next couple of weeks or so. Just keep checking back to see when they are posted...Thanks again for the inquiries.

Art
It always amazes me the amount of genuine talent there is out there whether it's painting, mixed media, altered books, collage, quilting, etc. Recently I've been obsessing over this large amount of talent trying to locate the extreme and beautiful. Through my surfing I came across this low key gallery, Jonathan LeVine Gallery, which has an excellent exhibitions schedule. If I had time I would go see the Daniel Martin Diaz exhibit...so much to see in NYC. This type of art is not your normal feel good, pretty, don't disturb me art, which I absolutely love! Challenge your sense of comfort, believe me it won't hurt!

Ok, now, is it me or did April just fly by? I mean good lord! time come back, please? I have a massive to do list and Summer will soon be here...spreading its heavy heat upon us. Yucky!

A couple of comments on recent life events...control does not equal power...power does not equal control AND one year olds are the best auction company one can have! I recently started my plan to corrupt my lil' niece by having her attend an estate auction. She was such a delight, didn't bother a soul and was absolutely fascinated by the old collectibles.

Jewelry Sale
This past weekend I sold my jewelry at my first public sale! It was loads of fun, the family came out and supported me, and I got to meet some interesting people. Now I have a better idea of what people will go for and in what settings. I think the next time I do this I'll try a larger craft-oriented event with a substantial loyal clientele.

Fiber Fiends
As soon as Saturday was over I was roaming around the Maryland Wool and Sheep Festival! Dragged the hubby out there and check out all of the barns and vendors. I picked up yarn from Tess' Designer yarns, and roving from Three Waters Farm and Wild Meadows Angora. Wonderful beautiful rovings! More about them later. What else is there to say about the festival that hasn't already been said? It's great and you should go!

Summer/Fall Plans
My "can't keep it all straight" list:
- Fix garden
- Buy spinning wheel
- Make more jewelry
- Knit!
- Travel to Germany...yiipppeeee! (send on ideas, I'll be in Germany, Czech Republic and possibly other places)

That's the theme for the week. Besides knitting as fast I can trying to finish my niece's bday gift I'm busy figuring out plans for a vacation. It's been three years since our last international trip...time for another one. The world is our option! I'm thinking train trip across Canada, castle hunting in the Czech Republic, discovering the Basque countryside in Spain, and so on. Any ideas? Send them on! I have two weeks to spend discovering the world.

Remember alive and kicking? Well, that's what keeps running through my head as I see some kick a$$ art around the lovely WWW. Check out this first, then this and finally this. If you know of others drop me a comment.

The dreaded stall has occured! I got so freaking frustrated with my hat that I stopped knitting it. Now I'm either a total idiot (yes, it's true!) or the instructions are poorly written. I'm opting for the second. So, I'm giving it a rest and starting to focus on a b-day present for my little niece.

Now for the WIPs:
- bday scarf for Mom, knitting in Koigu, 8 months old
- socks for DH, Lorna's Laces, 1 month old
- hat, Classic Elite Waterspun, 2 weeks

The same can be said for my spinning. STALLED. The good thing though I'm cranking out jewelry left and right ever since I got a check in the mail last week from my consignment store. Yup! I sold a piece. Yippee!!

So I've started a great knitting project for me! It's a hat with a gorgeous pattern but of course I can't remember the name of it. I'm using Berroco Optik and Classic Elite Waterspun, which by the way is lovely! I wish they didn't have to discontinue it. If you run across some buy it!

Chile Expedition
I wish I had loads of presents to share but to be honest I barely had time to do much shopping. When I get a chance I'll share some pics of things I bought: handweaved shawl, vintage Japanese postcards and stamps, and yummy food!

Overall my visit was waaaayyy toooo short and I wish I could be there now. The weather and people were splendid. I just love visiting my roots, getting familiar with the culture again, enjoying the relatives and absorbing the real world. It's amazing how the average US citizen loses sight of how things really are outside of this country. You don't know poverty until you've gone abroad.

My last day there was spent chatting with my aunts, grandmother, cousins and of course my grandfather. We had a family lunch and also watched some soccer. Lunch is the main meal of the day and normally comes with several dishes. I left that evening crying rivers and knowing that was the last time I'll ever see my grandfather again. I hope his next life will bring him happiness, love, and comfort. Para ti tata, te amo.

What's Next
Oh boy! So much going on. I have projects coming out of my ears. Besides my knitting, I'm making some jewelry and trying to sell some at local shops. My goal is to save enough for the Maryland Wool and Sheep Festival and buy lots of roving, spinning tools and yarn!

I can not wait!!

Here's the beautiful poncho (well at least for me):

Details:
US 8
2 skeins of Mountain Colors Wool Quarters in Garnet
1 skein of Colinette Mohair in Velvet Plum
Knit in the round

Surprisingly this garmet is just the right thickness. It's sooo easy to thrown on and be comfy in. Here's a close up:

My Handspun

This is from some Three Waters Farm roving I bought. It's quite thin and perfect for lacework. The color is stunning, vibrant and perfect for spring and summer. I also have another pink combo and a purple combo to work on. Not to mention my cashmere blend and angora blend. Yummy!!!!

I finally got around to visiting the gals at KH for Wednesday's late night. Loads of fun as usual. I spent some time knitting my sock and then drooling over the new yarns I hadn't seen in months! Now that I'm more or less settled in at my new job I feel that I can join the gals for Late Night! well except for next Wednesday since I'll be in Chile.

Gals - if you're good I'll bring back kilos of yarn for ya!

It's been done I just haven't shared it with you. Oh, and you want pics? Darn! I've gotta do that. It turned out beautiful but I won't be doing another any time soon. I got soooo bored of the never ending stockinette stitch.

Let's see other projects...the socks. My first of pair of socks. That's a little slow I'm stuck on the short rows area. In the meantime, I've been spinning up some yummy fiber. I just got done with 3 ounces of a coral colored wool/mohair blend. Yummy!!

Knitting really has been put aside since the holidays. I got burned out with all of my Xmas gifts, but it's time to resume. I want to make a cardigan, sweater for hubby, hats, mittens and more! Best of all my dear Mom brought back pounds of wool from her trip to Chile. I mean pounds! They sell yarn by the kilo. Most of it is handspun and handdyed by the indigenous people.

quickly. I'm dead tired. The new job is wonderful. Great people, cool work, and back to what I do best.

I've been trying to keep up with my knitting but with all of my travelling, new job and lack of time I haven't had a chance to do much.

Xmas gift to do list

Here's the current status of items:

Finish scarf for MIL
Hat for Stepdad
Scarf/Hat for Stepmom
Jewelry for family women
Finish scarf for bro
Add beaded fringe to SIL's scarf
Bunny for MJ
Scarf for Dad
Hat for bro
Scarf for future SIL

New bear

Today I received my bear from Rosa Pomar. I'm in love with it! It's just gorgeous. Thank you Rosa! and thank you for the postcards.

Lil' bunny is done!

Pattern: Knitted Toys, small bunny
Yarn: Knitaly, US 8, 1 skein

My Softies

The kids are starting to feel neglected. Can you see how jealous they are? Poor bunny.

Toy Patterns and SP3

Most of my SP3 gifts have left their box and moved on to their permanent homes. Here's just a snap shot of what I received. The patterns are from a purchase off eBay. I can't wait to make them!

Bunny ears, bunny ears, bunny ears! I'm 3/4 from being done with the bunny knitting toy. Then I'll need to stuff her and embroider the face. And today I picked up the cutest patchwork apron...and yes, the cute bunny will have a dress.

Today's lunchtime excursion was to the Prevention of Blindness Society's thrift store. This is located on King Street in Old Town Alexandria. This place is packed and you really have to look very carefully for things. I think the local ladies haunt this place on a daily basis. I hear the brooches and pins get sold as fast as they come in. Darn! But that's ok, I picked up the cool apron, silk ribbons and ties, fabric, and a cute coin purse. I'll have to visit this place again before I start work in DC.

Beads & Jewelry

Heads up for you bead lovers! This weekend is the Bead Society of Greater Washington's Annual Bazaar. It's held November 13th and 14th, 2004 at the Exhibition Center at the Ramada Inn in New Carrolton, MD, from 10 AM - 5 PM on Saturday, and 11 AM - 5 PM on Sunday. I'll be there on Saturday bright and early!

If you love unique jewelry pendants, handmade, African trade, crystal, vintage, and contemporary beads then this is the place you should be!

Cashmere

I got the most lovely letter from Stoneycrest Cashmeres yesterday. They were wondering what I had made from my purchase at the VFFF. I was embarrased to say nothing! They also wanted to see if I was interested in more. But of course! I'm thinking clouds of grey and beige. Yummy!

Thank you everybody for your kind words! It really does feel great to be starting a new job. This weekend was filled with "Let's Celebrate Carolina" events:

- Thursday: DH and I went out for dinner.
- Friday: Knit and Nosh at KH...I resisted and didn't buy any Noro Transitions...
- Saturday: visited Ch'Naca Farm and Fiberworks in Prince Frederick, MD. They carry Opal sock yarn! I picked up one skein of Opal, alpaca roving, and a drop spindle!!!!
- Saturday afternoon: signed up for a handspinning class at Springwater
- Sunday:
---1st stop - Went to my first ever estate sale! Fun, fun, fun. I picked up fabric, Japanese art, quilting patterns, cool scissors, Ogee mirror, cool luggage, sewing ruler, and Hummel postcard.
---2nd stop - Elks lodge flea market. Boring! Nothing but crapola. If I were the vendors I would protest against the junk resellers. What's wrong with people? I was hoping to see more unique items than boxes and boxes of $1 sponges. I was able to find a cool set of xacto knives. It's missing blades but for $5 you can't go wrong.
---Final stop - Yesterday's rose. Large! Good stuff and lots of variety. I found a retro briefcase, quilting magazines and some fabric. The briefcase is for my new job. Joy!
- Sunday afternoon: I did this:

She's crafty

Here's a pic of the project I'm working on. It's a pattern from the Felt Wee Folk: Enchanting Projects book by Salley Mavor. It's super easy and lots of fun! I have almost everything done except the head and cloak.

Isn't it beautiful?

Some wondered how working longer hours equaled more knitting time. Well, I forgot to mention I'll be using public transportation to and from work. Hopefully, I'll get a seat - you know if this was NYC it would never be a problem but noooo DC has to have retarded Metro cars.

X-mas Gifts

See I didn't forget about you. Here's the pictures. I have more...but later.

For me

This is my first flapper ear hat I've ever knitted. I used the yummy yarn from Three Waters farm purchased at the Montpelier Fiber Festival. The pattern was made for them. I used one skein of 87yds on US 13. Super easy!

Here's my finished Klaralund! Yippppeee! Last night I cranked out the last bit of seaming. Best of all it fits wonderfully. I ended up using US 8 bamboos and was left with about 2 whole skeins. I love it! This is a super easy sweater to make and is definitely doable for a beginner.

RAOK & SP3

In this week's mail I received my latest gift from my secret pal in Canada. It's a card that you can plant and in the Spring you'll have flowers. Neat, huh? Thank you for noticing that I'm gardening freak! I absolutely love this.

I also received my first fiber RAOK from the wonderful Michelle at The Dye Pot. I received a cool peacock card along with 2 handspun, handdyed skeins. Thank you!!!!

my SP 3 card is on the right

Jewelry

I've also been very busy making jewelry and playing with my beads. Below are two bracelets I made using vintage Japanese beads, Czech glass and Chinese crystal. The silver watch/bracelet is made from chain maille sterling silver rings and a watch face that I bought.

LYS Fall Sale stash

And yes, I'm a sucker for sales. I went to my LYS yesterday and took advantage of my $25 gift certificate and their generous sales. Here's the booty:

I picked up enough New Tweed Tahki to make Dolman Updated from the IK Winter 03 issue. Also featured is this yummy wool/cashmere blend in a gorgeous red, and 1 skein of Trekking XXL. Love it!

That's it! I've been hoarding these photos for ever! Now I have to run and continue on my holiday knitted gifts.

Last night was pretty quiet at Knit Happens for the usual late night gathering. Regardless, we had loads of fun! I worked on seaming Klaralund with the fabulous help from Carol. Thanks Carol!

Afterwards, I hurried home to watch some of the debates and continue my seaming. The seaming won! It's sooooooooo frustrating watching those debates and listening to that idiot ramble on with his grade school English skills. I'm an immigrant, naturalized citizen, and I speak better than his Ivy League school a$$. Enough said!

Klaralund is about 90% done in the seaming category. I promise pictures as soon as I'm done. I've also completed my first holiday present. Yippeee! One down ten or so more to go. Currently I'm obsessing about dolls (see previous post). I'm searching for cool fabric, buttons, ribbons, etc. Funny thing though, I'm knitting this doll and he/she won't need an outfit made from fabric since it's already part of the pattern. I can't help it though. Looking at all of the DIY dollmakers makes my mouth water! There's such awesome stuff out there.

New Wallet

Check out my new wallet from poketo.com. Isn't it adorable?

Go get yourself one before they run out!

Yes, I have finished Klaralund! No photos yet until it's completely seamed. I have also started my holiday knitted items. I'm making hats, scarves, and possibly mittens for some family members. Oh but best of all, I'm making a knitted doll for my niece. I'm using a pattern from Bouton D'or Layette #11. Here's a pic of the book:

In preparation for this endeavor, I've started scouting fabrics, trims, notions, cute doll patterns, more fabric, etc. I've been surfing around and came across this link via Wee Wonderful's site: Fun Quilts. If you like non-traditional quilts, those with more abstracts images than scenes then this is your place. I'm currently drooling over the fat quarters sampler. Yummy! What I will do with these I don't know. I'm not a quilter but I'm thinking purse linings, doll clothes, etc.

My doll/craft supply shopping began this weekend with a trip to JoAnn's for their Columbus Day sale. I picked up felt, fabric, ribbons, embroidery thread, and needles. On my way home I noticed that my local Frank's Nursery & Crafts was having a store closing sale. Off I went on Sunday to check it out. I picked up some more ribbon, a lovely basket, craft glue, and garden supplies. The ribbons will be used for my jewelry making efforts as well as embellishments for clothes and other crafts. If you have one of these stores near you I would recommend stopping by!

Last week I picked up the latest Rowan Vintage Style book. Flipping through the gorgeous patterns I've decided to make this:

Agnes

Isn't it beautiful? I think it will look smashing!

At the store, I also picked up the yarn for this lovely scarf:

Monette

Others on the list:

Salina

Chantel

Rivia

Want to see all the Rowan Vintage Style patterns? Go: view all patterns

Bias Scarf Patterns

I'm also in search of interesting patterns for a silk/wool blend yarn. I want to make a scarf. Here's what I'm thinking:

From Straw

Tangleweave

Anyone have other ideas or resources?

If so, I think I need to join one. Now don't hate me for my addiction, please help me find a "My Name Is Carolina, and I'm a Yarn Addict" group.

So, what has caused this revelation? I don't have pics but here's semi-proof. The yarn binge began a week ago with my trip to Folk Art Studio. I had never been to this shop before and what a great place! They had wonderful art hanging, lots of seating space, cafe, and yes, YARN. I picked up two skeins of K1C2 Bon Bon in a very pretty pink colorway. Prices aren't bad either.

Then the gluttony continued at Aylin's Woolgatherer. Now I didn't say much about this place before but now I will. Where shall I begin? Yes, the place has yarns and lots of them but that's the problem. I can't stand messy stores especially when they are overpriced. Sure the staff is nice but PLEASE organize your inventory. Don't let yarns just live on the floor.

Is it over yet? Nooooo...our trip to the Eastern shore had to include a quick trip to Yarns & Co in Easton, MD. This is a much better organized shop then the one mentioned above. The prices are decent and the selection has enough variety. I picked up some DPNs and 2 different skeins in the Artful Yarns line.

Moving on to this week. By this point, I began to feel guilty for the obscene splurge on yarns. Did that deter me? No, of course not. My visit to Knit Happens was very productive both for my Klaralund knitting and stash enhancement. I picked up the latest Rowan Vintage Style and gorgeous skeins of the Rowan Kid Silk Haze to make one of the scarfs in the book.

And last but not least, I love visiting Springwater Fiber Workshop. They not only have a great selection of yarns but also sell their own line. I picked up a skein of K1C2 Richesse et Soie in plum. This stuff is gorgeous and super soft----Silk and Cashmere. Yummy. This lovely item was 40% off. Perfect! Then I saw that they had some awesome handdyed 50/50 wool and silk yarn. I picked up a skein and one skein of their handdyed Lamb's Pride.

Pheewww. I feel so much better after that confession.

Basketweave Pullover

I'm finally done with my first swatch. The hubby is starting to feel left out so I had to get it done. The problem is I didn't get gauge. Nope. Not even close. I'll have to redo again.

Klaralund

Progress is coming along mighty fine. I'm about 15" into both sleeves. I hope to have all of this done within 2 weeks.

Kitty Beds

I've joined the Wendy bandwagon and have promised to finish a kitty bed by Nov. 6th. I'm thinking of using some Ironstone 100% wool and Lamb's pride with a touch of eyelash.

Book Envy

Yes, I have that too. Now whenever I get into a hobby, aka addiction, I go haywire and read up everything on it. Most of the time this includes purchasing books for said addiction. I have many garden books, but can you believe it nothing on making jewelry? For knitting, I have three books. My first book was Vogue Knitting: Quick Reference, then I picked up Stich & Bitch, followed by 1030 Stitches and Patterns ; Mon Tricot Knitting Dictionary.

I'm currently envious of Julia's latest purchase. She got four volumes of Barbara Walker's treasures. As much as I would love to own one of these I think my skills are too new to appreciate them. I think they would be a great gift when my knitting skills turn five years old. In the meantime, I'm coveting the Knitting On the Road by Nash Bush. This is an awesome book, which reminds me I've got to return my copy to the library.

Finding Goodies

While surfing I discovered a link to this interesting search engine - Vivisimo. Your search results get clustered within categories and you can search many different sources: eBAY, FirstGov, NIH, other search engines, and online news resources. Awesome!

First up, I'm done with my Klaralund back and about 95% done with the front. Here's a pic:

click me

And next, well I couldn't control myself and went searching for Aylin's Wool Gatherer store. I had heard they had a great sale room and boy did they! Plus they had a sale on all yarns except for new shipment. I picked up some Manos, Colinette, and novelty stuff. Check it out!

The Manos and Patons will be used for the French Market Bag that I've been waiting so patiently to do. The others I think will be gifts.

Now, what's next? Well, I've yet to redo my swatch for the Basketweave Pullover. Once I'm done with Klaralund I'll be doing that. Then I think I'll do the FMB. Ahhh soooo little time.

The fun scarf is done! This one goes to my cousin.

Lobo, of course, had to check it out. She has a smelling issue. Everything has to be smelled for looooonnnng periods of time. Oi vey!

I just love how this scarf turned out w/ the novelty yarns. Don't ask me what I used b/c I don't remember but I do know one is a Trendsetter yarn. That's all.

Some of you are wondering what I'll be doing with my recent stash enhancement. What I didn't mention in my previous post is that only about 4-5 items will be for me. The rest will be knitted as gifts for the holiday season.

From Wildfiber 50% room:

• Debbie Bliss Merino Aran - Men's scarfs, 255 yds each
• Katia Damasco 904 - Woman's scarf, 129 yds
• GGH Lara Black - 62 yds, for Katia scarf
• Gedifra Cicco pink/gray color- forgot name 2 balls, 110m each
• GGH Joy #13 - Scarf, 252 yds
• GGH Gala #24- for scarf, 85m
• GGH Tiffany Color 104- multicolored tape yarn, scarf
• GGH Venezia #5 - 93 yds, not sure where to use yet

For me:

• Colinett Wigwam Venezia- 1 skein
• Jo Sharp Rare Comfort Kid Mohair Infusion col 613 Camomile - I think that's the color
• K1C2 Douceur et Soie in Seafoam - 225 yds

From Three Dog Knits:

• Zen & Suede - Poncho, for me
  I got a free poncho pattern when I purchased these at Three Dog Knits in Tahoe City.
• Lana Grossa Telaio Print 407, for other projects
• Kardiff #174 - For DH's hat

From Yarns Unlimited:

• Baruffa Kid Fur #11 & #12 - for scarfs, presents
• GGH Marathon - for socks

From Ball & Skein, & More:

• Filatura di Crosa College #18 - 330yds, not sure yet where to use
• SRK Molash #1007 - 142 yds, shawl

If you have any suggestions, drop me a note.

My order from Webs came in yesterday. I ordered 2 bags plus 1 skein of Lana D'Oro in West Point Blue. Ain't it purty?

This is slotted for DH's basketweave pullover from IK Fall 04. I love it! The yarn is soooo soft and the blue is just stunning.

Speaking of it rocks. I picked up some books from the local library. I just love them especially when I can order anything and they will transfer for free. Awesome service. The only things missing from the picture are the Summer and Spring issues of IK, and a copy of Knitting on the road : sock patterns for the traveling knitter by Nancy Bush. This last book is going with me to California. Oh and today I picked up so more sock yarn. Yup. I couldn't help myself. I got Lorna's Laces in a pretty blue colorway.

How about knitting? You ask. Yes, I've been busy. I've got to redo my swatch for Klaralund and right now I have about 16" to go for my Mother's scarf. I'm using Koigu and the Little Leaf Scarf pattern. Here's a picture of it. It really doesn't look like I've made much progress but believe me I have! I had to rip back and redo many rows.

Now for the vacation project bag...I think I'll tackle sock knitting and bring my poncho along. That should keep me busy along with yarn shopping. See you in a week!

5 more days and I'm in San Francisco! Sweeeeettt!!! I can't wait. We're flying to SanFran driving over to Lake Tahoe and then coming back to the coast to head down to LA. There will be lots of sightseeing, hiking and driving. The driving will be perfect to catch up on my book club reading and knitting. Oh and you can't have a vacation without some purchases. I'm planning to hit many yarn stores. I just need to come up with a list.

As promised here's pics (click on images for larger picture):

Birthday gift for Mother

Fun scarf for family member

First swatch for Klaralund

Yesterday's purchases

This last picture has my new yarn for the Poncho. It's Jaggerspun Zephyr in Plum, very yummy wool and silk blend. Best of all it's only $4 for 315yds. Yippeee! I also picked up the new Rowan, some Brittany DPNs and the extra Koigu for the scarf.

As for this scarf I'm knitting, the pattern is not difficult but you can loose track and end up messing up the pattern. Which I have done many times and have had to rip back a little. At this rate I won't be done in time. Sad, so very sad.

On Sunday I ventured into my gardens and was disgusted with the lack of maintenance. I need to seriously devote some time to it before Winter sets in. I need to move some plants and remove tons of weeds! Yucky!

Now that I'm knitting I just can't seem to fit this hobby in. The sad part of it all is that the weather has been gorgeous! So there's no reason for me to be knitting inside. I need a chair to sit on my porch and then I can do both. Yup, must find one.

Knitting Front
I'm about half way done with my Mother's bday scarf. I need another skein of Koigu to finish it. While I'm waiting to purchase that I started another project. I'm knitting another scarf for a relative in pinks and purples. Pic to come soon.

The Poncho is still on hold until I buy another yarn to strand along with the mohair. I think I've found one but just need to check for color. While at Springwater Fiber Workshop I found tons of Jaggerspun yarn on cones. Gorgeous stuff! I'm going there today to pick it up along with Koigu. Oh and I'm still waiting for an extra skein of Mountain Colors Weaver's Wool in Garnet. I've emailed the shopowner for a status.

Let's see...Klaralund. I've done a swatched and blocked it yesterday. I think I'll need to go up to US9 needles because my preliminary measurements came up to 17 stitches & 23 rows for 4". That was done on my Denise US 8 needles. I think I'll use my Addis for the next swatch.

And last but not least in my list of projects: the basketweave pullover. I still haven't received my Webs order for the Lana D'Oro yarn. They are sooo backed up. Dang it.

I went to Knit Happens today. I can see this become my weekly walk from work and spend $$$.... Gotta love habits. I picked up some Regia limited edition sock yarn. 1 ball of Cascade Commotion in a lovely color - this will become a scarf for my dear Mom.

I can't wait to tackle sock knitting on one circular. Scary but fun challenge. Pic to come soon.

Pikachu says ooohhh more yarn!

So, I have about 4"s, yes moving slowly but have no fear I will get it done. I've just been pretty occupied getting supplies for next two projects. I just got a notice that my Klaralund yarn is on its way. Yippeeee!!! Fast and speedy.

Poncho - click image for bigger picture

I'm also researching which yarn stores I'll be visiting during my trip to CA. I'll be Lake Tahoe, Big Sur area, and then down to LA. I'm thinking of stopping by one in Cambria but not sure which in the other two areas. Must do more research.

Today I took my lazy butt down to Old Town to visit Knit Happens but no luck. They're closed on Mondays, doh! So, I'll visit later this week and get my fix.

Oh yeah, and progress...I've ordered the yarn for the baskeweave pullover from Webs. They're having a summer sale right now. I got a great bargain on Lana D'Oro.

Countdown to vacation...20 days

Secret Pal 3
Yeah! I'm in. I can't wait for my secret pal. Check out the sign up for more info:
SP3

Alright I'm taking the plunge and doing the knittyblog's pattern for my poncho. I'll do the main part w/ the mountain colors and then add the mohair or mix the two.

The neck will have the yummy lana grossa pep. Yummy! Oh and I found that someone on knitty will be having a knitalong for the basketweave pullover. Perfect!

Next up..buy yarn for pullover. I think I found the exact same one from a Canadian source.

There are sooo many things I want to start making at the same time. I've gotta pick three things, something mindless: poncho, something difficult: basketweave pullover, and something fun. Now there's the problem. What shall I make that's fun and for me. There's the cardigan that I need but haven't found a pattern yet. There's the cool Kyoto sweater I want. Then I read about the Klaralund Noro pattern at WendyKnits and fell in love. I have a big thing for drapey sweaters and an even bigger thing for handpainted yarn, like Noro, Colinette, Manos, etc. You get the picture expensive taste with little cash-o-la.

I could start all four projects but then if I wanted to join the knitalongs it may not be fair. But who knows. Opinions anyone?

I'm trying to keep myself busy since Julien's passing. During my pregnancy, I picked up knitting to make some things for him and my niece. I had forgotten how much fun it was! I use to do a lot of crocheting and knitting when I was a little girl. Well, now instead of making things for Julien I'll be making things for myself and the family.

First up: a poncho! That's right. I've always wanted one. I have some gorgeous Mountain Colors Weaver's Wool Quarters in Garnet, Colinette Mohair in Velvet Plum, and Lana Grossa Pep #33 for some fun.

Now I'm still a beginner but a very fast learner. Actually the poncho is my fifth project but the largest. I was going to do Knitty's Villa but then I saw this from the Knitty Blog. I'll have to enquire w/ the KR's and see what they think. I just don't think the drape will be the same.