tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-342821282024-03-07T19:09:50.782-08:00Knifty RedSpontaneous moments of a knitting mother, artist and designer.Krishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01685188032844582716noreply@blogger.comBlogger1086125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34282128.post-64701415988838779872014-11-17T19:39:00.000-08:002014-11-17T19:52:12.741-08:00Designer Interview: Jen LucasAs part of the 2014 Gift-A-Long we received random assignments to promote other fellow designers on social media. I was lucky enough to get the fabulous designer, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/people/jenlucas">Jen Lucas</a>. And to my surprise she's local to me here in the Chicagoland area. I can see us doing coffee sometime soon to talk shop;)<br />
<br />
<div id="yiv9784604848yui_3_16_0_1_1416091372786_5407">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlqE9nFdln264T9024khYSGAukPi68W5Xbo8q2EPopIB92QUuRvYIsuyTGv1USFsx2ZzrOaA2qveNdAYxUQ03_C8pUZOjLy7-QjaOeHJru90cE_5wj8Jcui7zyvgv71rKZCZIx/s1600/db1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlqE9nFdln264T9024khYSGAukPi68W5Xbo8q2EPopIB92QUuRvYIsuyTGv1USFsx2ZzrOaA2qveNdAYxUQ03_C8pUZOjLy7-QjaOeHJru90cE_5wj8Jcui7zyvgv71rKZCZIx/s1600/db1.jpg" height="310" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2324" style="background: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2324" style="background: white;">
What amazes me is that Jen has been in my Ravelry Friends list for a while now and I'm just now getting the connection between her long list of awesome designs and the same person who is in my list!! Have you see her collection of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/stores/jen-lucas-designs">designs</a>? WOW, her extensive collection makes my mind dizzy! It must have been a challenge for her to choose just 20 to run in the GAL bundle.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2324" style="background: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicNw8jKYuZdMjzNwzSiCsZ5oyTbF-3ExuDhxFQWLCOFpIp8THqbrxNWftZiwJ1dsgaFVFK3-MYclAPI9irGHhbD0wxMou7zW2nHV1mmrflSHvCt-ieito19KKwbAydhA9b0KUw/s1600/15088598154_80dc5b43f4.jpg" height="320" width="400" /></b></div>
<br />
Go <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/bundles/4695">HERE</a> to see her discounted GAL bundle. Remember coupon code: giftalong2014<br />
<br />
Without further adieu, here is our interview:<br />
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2324" style="background: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2324" style="background: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2324" style="background: white;">
<b><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2325" style="font-size: 11.0pt;">How long have you been knitting? Who taught you?</span></b><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"></span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2320" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2323" style="background: white;">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2322" style="font-size: 11.0pt;">I
taught myself to knit about 10 years ago. My friend and I decided that
we wanted to learn to knit. She bought me some needles and yarn for my
birthday and I bought one of those “Learn to Knit” booklets at the craft
store and the rest is history! Once I knew what I was doing I taught
that friend how to knit, but it didn’t stick with her like it did with
me.</span><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"><br clear="none" /> </span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2323" style="background: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2323" style="background: white;">
<b><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;">What got you started designing?</span></b><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"></span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2329" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2331" style="background: white;">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2330" style="font-size: 11.0pt;">From
the beginning I was doing my own thing with knitting, never really
following a pattern. In 2009 or so, Stefanie Japel offered an online
course on her website called “Design Your Own Shawl.” I signed up and
was completely hooked on shawl designing. Shawls are definitely my
favorite thing to knit and design.</span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2332" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"><br clear="none" /></span>
<span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"><br clear="none" /></span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2332" style="background: white;">
<b><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;">Where do you get your inspiration?</span></b><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"></span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2334" style="background: white;">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2333" style="font-size: 11.0pt;">I’m
so jealous of designers who can look at a flower and decide they are
going to make a shawl that looks like that flower. I don’t really work
that way. Typically I know the shawl shape or type of accessory I want
to knit/design and then I hit up my stitch dictionaries until
inspiration strikes. I love taking patterns from stitch dictionaries and
changing them up a bit.</span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2335" style="background: white;">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2336" style="font-size: 11.0pt;"><br clear="none" /> </span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2335" style="background: white;">
<b><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2336" style="font-size: 11.0pt;">What design or moment are you most proud of?</span><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"></span></b></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2337" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2340" style="background: white;">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2339" style="font-size: 11.0pt;">I am definitely most proud of my first book, <i id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2338">Sock-Yarn Shawls</i>.
I had this crazy idea in my head that I wanted to have an actual
published knitting book and the fact that I achieved that goal is still
sort of mind-blowing to me. I will never ever forget the moment when the
advanced copy of the book arrived at my front door. There was an
embarrassing amount of screaming, jumping up and down and happy tears. </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_YJP-HUCErCyYtF2H8V3-DZ1Qi97mYHOxybntz8eFernju-Wwmz0IQzZIA32ywaCgWaPklb3d1wAZlnOu4xcZS5xJHiacuQmsddbVFQ22a5aVB7QTH1k0oAYnys2tCZr5mfRA/s1600/0000274117_small2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_YJP-HUCErCyYtF2H8V3-DZ1Qi97mYHOxybntz8eFernju-Wwmz0IQzZIA32ywaCgWaPklb3d1wAZlnOu4xcZS5xJHiacuQmsddbVFQ22a5aVB7QTH1k0oAYnys2tCZr5mfRA/s1600/0000274117_small2.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"><br clear="none" /><b> </b></span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2341" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"><b>What is your favorite yarn? </b></span><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"></span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2343" style="background: white;">
<br />
<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2342" style="font-size: 11.0pt;">Tough
question – because it’s always changing. I’m a total sucker for the
fingering weight yarns that have cashmere or silk in them. I love Hazel
Knits Divine and Twisted Fiber Art Muse. Those are my current favorites.</span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2344" style="background: white;">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2345" style="font-size: 11.0pt;"><br clear="none" /> </span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2344" style="background: white;">
<b><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2345" style="font-size: 11.0pt;">What is your go-to knitting viewing? (TV or Movie, current or all-time fave)</span></b><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"></span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2346" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2348" style="background: white;">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2347" style="font-size: 11.0pt;">I
will re-watch The Office (the U.S. version) over and over again while
knitting. This time of year I will also watch just about every Hallmark
Channel made-for-TV Christmas movie.</span><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2349" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"><br clear="none" /></span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2349" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"><b>What is your opinion on dangly stitch markers?</b></span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2368" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2351" style="background: white;">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2350" style="font-size: 11.0pt;">Love
to buy them, hate to use them. It’s actually pretty rare that I use
stitch markers, but when I do, it’s usually the plastic safety pin kind.</span></div>
</div>
<div id="yiv9784604848yui_3_16_0_1_1416091372786_5485">
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2352" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"> </span></div>
</div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2353" style="background: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2353" style="background: white;">
<b><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;">Best knitting needles ever?</span></b><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"></span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2355" style="background: white;">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2354" style="font-size: 11.0pt;">Like the favorite yarn, that’s always changing too. Right now I am obsessed with the Knitter’s Pride Karbonz needles. </span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2355" style="background: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2356" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"><br clear="none" /><b>Continental or thrower? Cable needle or let your cable stitches fly free?</b></span><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"></span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2357" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2359" style="background: white;">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2358" style="font-size: 11.0pt;">I’m
a thrower. When I crochet, I have the working yarn in my left hand, but
I just can’t seem to get that down when knitting needles are involved!
I’ve recently been cabling without a cable needle and I love it. I
avoided cables for a long time because it was just too fiddly for me
with the cable needle. Now that I have gotten the no cable needle thing
down, I’ve become cable obsessed.</span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2359" style="background: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2360" style="background: white;">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2369" style="font-size: 11.0pt;"><br clear="none" /><b>What do you do on a stormy day when you have nowhere to be and no must-dos?</b></span><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"></span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2370" style="background: white;">
<span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2362" style="background: white;">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2361" style="font-size: 11.0pt;">I am probably crocheting while watching The Office or listening to an audiobook. </span></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2362" style="background: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv9784604848MsoNormal" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2362" style="background: white;">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2361" style="font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /> </span><br />
<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2361" style="font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /> </span><br />
<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1416279214046_2361" style="font-size: 11.0pt;">If you're interested in keeping up with Jenn, then please go follow her on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JenLucasDesigns">Facebook,</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/knitlikecrazy">Twitter</a> and <a href="http://instagram.com/knitlikecrazy">Instagram</a>! </span>Don’t forget you can use any of her paid patterns to enter the
knit-a-longs for chances at super prizes! </div>
Krishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01685188032844582716noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34282128.post-58387977526045295592014-11-15T20:19:00.002-08:002014-11-15T20:19:38.409-08:00Gift-Along 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/15521726367" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="kniftyred-gal2014 by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="kniftyred-gal2014" height="400" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5601/15521726367_46a2da95fe.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The 2nd Annual Indie Gift-along is in full swing. The GAL involves 293 designers from 21 countries. There is an awesome sale on the 3,822 patterns available at 25% off until November 21st.<br />
<br />
I have 20 patterns up for grabs with a discount code: giftalong2014 Check out all the patterns <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/bundles/4662" target="_blank">HERE</a>!<br />
<br />
The Gift-along goes from Thursday, November 13th at 8pm and runs
until New Years. We've all banned together to
create a knit & crochet along of massive proportions! Go join the group <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/indie-design-gift-a-long">HERE.</a> There are games and prizes from now until the end of the year. Join the fun today and get a
jump on any gift knitting you have planned for family and friends…and
even maybe something for yourself!!Krishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01685188032844582716noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34282128.post-62476120826165289602014-11-05T20:39:00.000-08:002014-11-05T20:39:55.514-08:00Enchanted GardenOver the past months I've been giving you a few insider shots into the design process of my newest patterns. Talk about a huge weight off my shoulders, because at long last it is time to show off the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/enchanted-garden/patterns" target="_blank">Enchanted Garden</a>.<br />
<br />
The ebook contains 6 patterns that are all inspired by an Irish garden with a Gaelic theme. This enchanted garden entices you to enter where soft clovers dapple the diamond-shaped walkway. An elaborately curled wrought iron gate is left exposed by the climbing ivy that ascends an ancient stone wall. Time-honored memories seem to resonate here among the flowers. <br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Cosan</b></span> is the Gaelic word for path. The diamond clover stranded colorwork pattern evokes a feeling of walking through a garden path surrounded by wild flowers..
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/15695760045" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="cosan-beauty-shot1 by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="cosan-beauty-shot1" height="500" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3947/15695760045_49214bc51f.jpg" width="334" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Trean</b></span> is the Gaelic word for strong. The wrought iron gate stranded colorwork pattern gives a sense of majestic strength and yet has a classic beauty all it’s own.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/15076532883" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Dreap-HeroShot2 by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="Dreap-HeroShot2" height="500" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5612/15076532883_dace1bc085.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Dreap</b></span> is the Gaelic word for climb. The ivy trellis stranded colorwork pattern is fun and playful. As the ivy climbs along one side, the trellis climbs the other.
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/15696186605" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Trean-beauty-shot-crop by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="Trean-beauty-shot-crop" height="412" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3954/15696186605_d5264564e1.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
And if your interested, but don't want to splurge for the whole ebook? You can buy each pattern separately. I would pay special attention to the pattern notes that talks about yardage, because if you want to make the matching piece you might not need to buy more of the secondary colors.
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/15536865387" title="EnchantedGardenEbook-cover by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="EnchantedGardenEbook-cover" height="240" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3945/15536865387_141a6459cf_m.jpg" width="185" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/purchase/knifty-red-designs/240434"><img border="0" src="http://www.ravelry.com/images/shopping/buy-now.gif" /></a>Krishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01685188032844582716noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34282128.post-23952411453778107332014-10-23T09:35:00.000-07:002014-10-23T09:35:00.086-07:00FO: October Frost<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/14967269383" title="OctoberFrost-FO-front by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="OctoberFrost-FO-front" height="640" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3933/14967269383_74711fac96_z.jpg" width="429" /></a>
<br />
<br />
To say that I'm excited to have this sweater done...is an understatement. The pieces to this sweater stayed locked away blocked and folded while I was busy designing my own stuff. I waited patiently for the right buttons and in the end, grosgrain ribbon. I knew I wanted this to be done just right.<br />
<br />
<b>Pattern:</b> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/kniftyred/october-frost-2" target="_blank">October Frost</a> by Lisa Lloyd<br />
<br />
<b>Yarn:</b> Chuckanut Bay Yarns<br />
<br />
<b>Needles:</b> US 6 and 8 needle<br />
<br />
<b>Started:</b> January 21, 2012<br />
<br />
<b>Finished:</b> October 16, 2014<br />
<br />
Did I change anything? Nope. At the time, I was happy to just do what was instructed. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/15401306248" title="OctoberFrost-FO-back-flat by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="OctoberFrost-FO-back-flat" height="335" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5603/15401306248_686da07100.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
The yarn was originally for a tunic cabled jacket and hood...Faery Ring, but the designer never did finish the sizing options for the larger sizes. It was also at this point that I knew that the shape of the jacket would not be flattering to my body shape. The stars were then aligned for me to make one of the many beautiful sweaters from the book: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/a-fine-fleece" target="_blank">A Fine Fleece</a>.
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/15587427955" title="OctoberFrost-FO-front-flat by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="OctoberFrost-FO-front-flat" height="335" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5612/15587427955_bef72a5684.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
I also knew I had to find the perfect buttons and just to really finish this sweater off, I wanted ribbon.
So, If your ever in Chicago and need buttons and ribbon... head to <a href="http://www.soutacheribbons.com/" target="_blank">Soutache</a>. The lady there is adorable and was very knowledgeable with her stock and selection.
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/15563762776" title="OctoberFrost-buttons by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="OctoberFrost-buttons" height="334" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3953/15563762776_0aac73c6f4.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Back when I had time to listen to Podcasts, I remember the Knitmore
Girls talking about a video they had created that demonstrated the technique of adding ribbon to the button band. It's long. But
very helpful in understanding the process. Go check it out <a href="http://vimeo.com/11211190" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
What the video doesn't show you is the technique used for adding ribbon over the button holes. This part was a little more tricky. Knowing what I know now, I would have made button holes to the ribbon from my sewing machine prior to attaching the ribbon to the sweater. What did happen was I had attached the ribbon over the holes. Sniped slits where the holes where and then the ribbon began to fray. Oh-Joy. So yeah... I then looked up techniques on securing button holes. I found <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oy4Yg7TPGpE" target="_blank">this video</a> helpful. You'll also need to add Fray Check to the ribbon before doing this buttonhole stitch. If you don't it will just cause your ribbon to fray more. I also added more Fray Check afterwards to double secure it.<br />
<br />
Yes, it took a full day to add the ribbon...and another full day to stitch all 7 button holes, but in the end it was worth it.<br />
<br />
The whole process has me feeling very empowered. So here I give you my Powerful Pose:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/15401304758" title="OctoberFrost-FO-FACE by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="OctoberFrost-FO-FACE" height="500" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5613/15401304758_e9a9f29cb2.jpg" width="335" /></a>Krishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01685188032844582716noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34282128.post-80500782968900173322014-09-10T12:13:00.000-07:002014-09-10T12:13:00.023-07:00Woobie Video: Connecting Provisional Cast-on HemI know the one thing that a lot of knitters have when making the Woobie is hem. Yeah, it's a lot of stitches in the beginning...and Yeah, the hem takes up practically a whole skein of yarn, but the idea is that it gives the blanket weight.<br />
<br />
The other big issue with the hem is unraveling the provisional cast-on. Your connecting the 300 live stitches with the 300 cast-on stitches. I decided that perhaps a video might help. The video is a little long, but you get two techniques on how to handle this portion of the pattern. You get the safe technique which involves placing the provisional cast-on onto a separate needle and then you get the "Living on the Wild Side" version.
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="253" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/sd1oJ7TwzhI" width="450"></iframe>Krishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01685188032844582716noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34282128.post-62817045069834406792014-09-05T12:03:00.000-07:002014-09-05T12:03:27.261-07:00Woobie Video: Sealing base of the headSince I'm in the process of putting together a third Collection Series of Woobies, it gave me a chance to record some key videos to help those who are having issues with the different techniques used in the pattern.<br />
<br />
Here is a video that shows how to seal the base of the head on your Woobie. It's not a difficult technique, just a little hard to describe in words. I know I'm a visual learner, so this would have helped me out a lot.<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="253" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/a85p4hXong4" width="450"></iframe>Krishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01685188032844582716noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34282128.post-55253067141296232422014-08-29T15:16:00.000-07:002014-08-29T15:16:46.876-07:00Stitches Midwest 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/14890124120" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Stitches2014-haul by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="Stitches2014-haul" height="282" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5578/14890124120_99c2f3d8a3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I’ve been so busy with my daughters birthday, going back to school
and cheerleading that I’ve only now just taken a picture… heck there is
even a project on the needles because I’ve cast on something already.<br />
<br />
(L to R) Black Wolf Ranch Alpaca Merino blend, Erin Lane bucket bag,
Huntington in 3 colors, I won the Sterling Silver shawl pin as a door prize, Aussi Wool
(navy blue - 5 skeins for sweater for my daughter), Brooklyn Tweed
Shelter in 2 colors, Brooklyn Tweed Loft in 3 colors, Fringe Supply Co
stitch markers, Signature Needle, Woolpierogi rolags, Erin Lane bag and 2
of the Freia gradients… one is already on the needles;)<br />
<br />
Most of what you see in the middle will be going into the 'Design Pile'.... which makes me super happy because the Brooklyn Tweed yarns are just so beautiful. I wanted to buy them all, but alas that wasn't possible. sigh.<br />
<br />
There was so much to look forward to at this years Stitches. I was very pleased with the amount of new vendors and ridiculously awesome Indy Dyers there. Krishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01685188032844582716noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34282128.post-66694019934362175542014-08-19T11:22:00.000-07:002014-08-19T11:25:12.731-07:00New Pattern: Woobie ButterflyI'm excited to announce a new pattern release!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/14726583920" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="woobie_butterfly_beautyshot_sm by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="woobie_butterfly_beautyshot_sm" height="302" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5568/14726583920_bb1f51b5e3.jpg" width="450" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/woobie-butterfly" target="_blank">Woobie Butterfly</a> is now live! I had so many wonderful testers during this process. I could not have done this without them.<br />
<br />
The release of this pattern also jumps off the beginning of the next Woobie Collection Series. In collection #3, some of them will have a different alt on the construction which will give more opportunities to expand the collection.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/14726596489" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="WoobieButterfly-sq-pic by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="WoobieButterfly-sq-pic" height="372" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3913/14726596489_fc878228ee.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
During the design process for this butterfly, I did come to a wall that I had to pretend wasn't there. If you see a butterfly, you'd never actual see a butterfly's face from above. Butterflies look down, so I had to let go of reality just for moment with this one.<br />
<br />
I also had the great pleasure of knitting this up in the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/cascade-yarns-220-superwash-sport">Cascade 220 Superwash® Sport.</a> It's high on my list of wonderful yarns to work with. It also blocks beautifully and has this smooth drape to the finished fabric. I'm really looking forward to showing you more of the collection series.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/14785316510" title="WoobieButterfly_cov by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="WoobieButterfly_cov" height="240" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3924/14785316510_a7bdefd994_m.jpg" width="185" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/purchase/knifty-red-designs/225800"><img border="0" src="http://www.ravelry.com/images/shopping/buy-now.gif" /></a>Krishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01685188032844582716noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34282128.post-22625082379602275412014-08-15T09:11:00.000-07:002014-08-15T09:11:00.376-07:00Trean SwatchAnother peek into the color palette for the last pair of designs for the Enchanted Garden Ebook:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/14358800914" title="Trean-colorpallet by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="Trean-colorpallet" height="112" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3866/14358800914_7edcfbdb46_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>
<br />
<br />
The yarn is <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/yarns/Wool_of_the_Andes_Sport_Yarn__D5420110.html">Capra Cashmere in DK weight</a> and is like working with butta...not butter, but butta. Lovely hand and just a dream to knit in. Seriously people. Cashmere. <br />
<br />
When designing in this kind of fiber, you know the pieces will have some drape...maybe not like silk, but they will be very pliable and makes for great knitwear accessories. Here is a snippet of the swatch worked up in these colors:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/14359674425" title="Trean-swatch-sample by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="Trean-swatch-sample" height="320" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2902/14359674425_9b96d0dae7_n.jpg" width="267" /></a>
<br />
<br />
I'm looking forward to revealing this last piece of the puzzle. Till next time my Knittas!Krishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01685188032844582716noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34282128.post-20892617500736878852014-08-01T09:20:00.000-07:002014-08-01T09:20:00.538-07:00Intro: TreanHere is the last pair of designs for the Enchanted Garden ebook.
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Trean </b></span>(Gaelic meaning: strong)
<br />
<br />
The wrought iron gate stranded colorwork pattern gives a sense of majestic strength and yet has a classic beauty all it’s own.
<br />
<br />
The Tam starts with an simple one-by-one rib then transition quickly into the colorwork sections which expands for a traditional slouch effect. The matching cowl would also start off the same way allowing for a cohesive look.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/14173109530" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="dreap-sketcj by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="dreap-sketcj" height="360" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3857/14173109530_bd688f8c5b_o.jpg" width="342" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This is the last sketch for the ebook and now to search for the right model and perfect location.
<br />
<br />
Thank you for coming on this journey with me. I look forward to when I can launch the ebook and share it with all of you. Krishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01685188032844582716noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34282128.post-65772909593518503682014-07-18T08:52:00.000-07:002014-07-18T08:52:00.063-07:00Intro: DreapAnother inside look at the second pair of designs of the Enchanted Garden ebook:<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Dreap </b></span> (Gaelic meaning: climb) <br />
<br />
The ivy trellis stranded colorwork pattern is fun and playful. As the ivy climbs along one side, the trellis climbs the other. The infinity scarf starts with a provisional cast-on. The stranded color is worked in the round with purl edge to allow the scarf tube to lay flat. Ivy shows on one side and trellis on the other. The mittens fall in line with the same theme. The cuff is a simple one-by-one rib, but the yellow is introduced to give a little pop of color and for the budding flowers that grow. These buds are applied to both pieces after completion with modified embroidery technique called the French knot.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/14336575736" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="dreap-sketcj by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="dreap-sketcj" height="400" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5197/14336575736_45e27056fc_n.jpg" width="248" /></a></div>
<br />
Sketching for my patterns has become a true passion for me. My ideal photo shoot will be to mimic this pose. Although It wont happen because while in the middle designing this pattern I came to harsh reality that a double thick color work infinity scarf would set the wearer on fire and also make it too bulky to actually wear comfortably. So, ultimately the pattern became a cowl instead. Yes, the knitter can customize the pattern by adding more length, if they so choose.<br />
<br />Krishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01685188032844582716noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34282128.post-86097094791487002842014-07-04T08:41:00.000-07:002014-07-04T08:41:00.092-07:00Dreap SwatchThe next 2 patterns for the Enchanted Garden ebook are designed in this color scheme:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/14358795804" title="Dreap-colorpallet by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="Dreap-colorpallet" height="112" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3858/14358795804_f71769c4d5_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>
<br />
<br />
This yarn is the <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/yarns/Wool_of_the_Andes_Sport_Yarn__D5420110.html">Knit Picks Wool of Andes Sport</a> that comes is a wide selection to choose from. When I started working with this yarn it was giving me all kinds of problems. Yet it wasn't the yarns fault. When working two colors in stranded knitting you need to increase your needle size to accommodate the for the extra bulk. I was so much happier once I went up a needle size.<br />
<br />
See, even designers sometimes have 'Duh' moments. Yeah, I had to rip back 6 inches of work, but ultimately the yarn was happy and so was I.<br />
<br />
Here is a snippet of the swatch:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/14336575336" title="Dreap-swatch-sample by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="Dreap-swatch-sample" height="320" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3901/14336575336_2601d976bd_n.jpg" width="206" /></a><br />
<br />
Love these colors together! Kind of makes me swoon just a little. There was some design alts right in the middle of this project, which you'll here about next time.<br />
<br />
Happy Knitting!Krishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01685188032844582716noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34282128.post-89730199644501465512014-06-23T13:23:00.001-07:002014-06-23T13:23:30.852-07:00Woobie Butterfly<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/14468146766" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="WoobieButterfly-main-pic by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="WoobieButterfly-main-pic" height="296" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3897/14468146766_0902eaca8e.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Let me introduce you to the Woobie Butterfly!
<br />
<br />
She is taking flight and is the first of 8 patterns that will be a part of the next Woobie Collection Series 3. This new style of Woobie is a different take in the design and allows for new creative ideas to take hold.<br />
<br />
If your interested in test knitting this pattern, I've started a thread in the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/discuss/knifty-red-designs/2957856/1-25" target="_blank">Knifty Red Designs</a> group. PM me your email address on Ravelry and I'll put you on the call list.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/14304685767" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="WoobieButterfly-sq-pic by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="WoobieButterfly-sq-pic" height="371" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2897/14304685767_18f48cf06e.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Krishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01685188032844582716noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34282128.post-13849389682128661452014-06-20T08:25:00.000-07:002014-06-20T08:25:00.385-07:00Intro: CosanI would like to give you a sneak into my design process. Since for as long as I can remember, drawing has always been a part of my life. With the Enchanted Garden, I wanted to showcase my sketching and illustration skills a little bit by drawing the knits on models.<br />
<br />
With that I give you an inner look at the first 2 designs of the Enchanted Garden ebook:<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Cosan</b></span> (Gaelic meaning: Path)<br />
<br />
The diamond clover stranded colorwork pattern emulates a walking path through a garden surrounded by wild flowers. The Tam starts with an icord edge, then transition into the colorwork hem which then widens for a traditional slouch effect. The matching convertible mittens would also start off the same way allowing for a cohesive look. Worked from the wrist to fingers and constructed with a flip-top, the button down style allows for easy access to fingers.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/14172814948" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cosan-sketch by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="Cosan-sketch" height="400" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3919/14172814948_0f5e2486cc_n.jpg" width="262" /></a></div>
Krishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01685188032844582716noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34282128.post-82382549218236060882014-06-12T12:47:00.000-07:002014-06-12T12:47:48.545-07:00Arlen <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/14400051285" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Arlen-cowl-Model by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="Arlen-cowl-Model" height="267" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3859/14400051285_daf5913275.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Super excited to announce a new design just released in <a href="http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEff14/KSPATTarlen.php" target="_blank">Knitty's First Fall 2014 issue</a>. There are two version available in this pattern: Cowl or Snood.<br />
<br />
The inspiration for this design came from a gorgeous <a href="http://www.kimberbaldwindesigns.com/" target="_blank">Fiber Optic</a> gradient in the Copper-Verdigris colorway. I knew I wanted to retain the colors, so I plyed my singles using a Navajo technique. The act of Navajo playing (or chain plying) has you creating loops,
which in turn generates a 3ply. These loops can be large or small and
depending on the color breaks; this can also help create a smooth color
change.<br />
<br />
There is a second option to work the pattern as a Snood.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/14398693402" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Arlen-snood-Model by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="Arlen-snood-Model" height="267" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3841/14398693402_4fe57a7742.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
After I had designed the cowl version, I had this overwhelming feeling to lift it over my head. It then seemed second nature to have an alternate that would allow you to gently cover your head and neck in luxurious warmth. The snood version is worked up in <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/fyberspates-scrumptious-4ply" target="_blank">Fyberspates Scrumptious 4ply</a>, which is super wonderful to knit with and makes a very light weight, but warm piece.<br />
<br />
<br />Krishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01685188032844582716noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34282128.post-62787626714366360672014-06-08T08:23:00.000-07:002014-06-08T08:23:01.884-07:00Cosan SwatchHere is a little peak into the color palette for 2 of the designs for the Enchanted Garden ebook.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/14336340496" title="Cosan-colorpallet by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="Cosan-colorpallet" height="320" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3887/14336340496_9c6d261d4d_n.jpg" width="316" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
The yarn is <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/yarns/Palette_Yarn__D5420132.html">Knit Picks Palette</a> and comes in a Huge selection of colors, which I thought was fantastic for this project since it involves at least 4 colors. At first I was going to have two grey colors, but opted on blue since it was so bright and just made me smile.
<br />
<br />
The yarn is 100% Peruvian Highland Wool and I was a little concerned with the scratchy factor, but was pleasantly surprised to find it softened up tremendously once washed.
<br />
<br />
Here you can see just a slice of the swatch:
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/14379620143" title="Cosan-swatch-sample by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="Cosan-swatch-sample" height="320" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3893/14379620143_429d6a0e98_n.jpg" width="224" /></a><br />
<br />
Stay tuned to see more...Krishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01685188032844582716noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34282128.post-54129408087406736642014-06-06T08:23:00.001-07:002014-06-06T08:23:41.207-07:00The Enchanted GardenBlurring the lines between secrete designs and blogging...if even just for a little bit. I'm taking a serious look at exposing some lovely stuff on the blog. Hopefully at least in stages to showcase some of my designs because I honestly do love to show off my stuff...<br />
<br />
With that being said I'd like to introduce you to my current inspiration, The Enchanted Garden. Here is a little blurb about the project...<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>"The Enchanted Garden entices you to enter where soft clovers dapple the
diamond-shaped walking path. An elaborately curled wrought iron gate is
left exposed by the climbing ivy which ascends the ancient stone wall.
Time-honored memories seem to resonate here among the flowers."</i></span></span><br />
<br />
This description is the base of my theme. It all started with a innocent evening spent on Pinterest. I was putting together some ideas for my ebook. I had a vague idea of what I was looking for but then I found it: <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/15762667418026484/">My Inspiration. (Pinterest link)</a>. <a href="http://verdigrisvie.blogspot.com/2011/04/sweet-serenity.html">Or you can click here to go to the original website.</a> If you scroll down, you'll find the perfect garden entrance. This has so many points of interest that encapsulated my ebook; the wrought iron gate, ivy covered stone and a walking path among the flowers.<br />
<br />
Did you catch that? YES! It's an ebook. The ebook will contain 6 stranded color work accessory patterns. Since I like to put matching pieces together for my accessories there will be 3 matching sets. I'm hoping that I'll be able to walk you through each one from baseline sketch, photo shoot and final launch until all are complete and ready. Krishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01685188032844582716noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34282128.post-39802768332964612342014-06-04T21:44:00.000-07:002014-06-04T21:44:25.682-07:00When Life Takes Over...Seriously.
<br />
<br />
Crickets.
<br />
<br />
It's that bad. BUT I will not apologize for being absent.
<br />
<br />
What I will do is tell you that I've been busy with 6 color work patterns that are all a part of an ebook. I'm looking forward to launching that series. I need to secure a photo shoot location and some models. Doing my own modeling is okay in a pinch, but it would be nice to see new faces.
<br />
<br />
And in other big news, I've also lined up 8 more Woobie Designs that I'll be releasing as I finish them. The first has been knit, but I'm going to record some tutorials along with this Collection number 3 that I think will be valuable to those of you struggling with some techniques.
<br />
<br />
Here, let me sooth you over with a picture of the finished yarn when last we met...930 yds of a 3ply heavy fingering.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/11291964543" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Happy with the turn out...930 yds of a 3ply heavy fingering. by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="Happy with the turn out...930 yds of a 3ply heavy fingering." height="400" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2890/11291964543_edfe05a929_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The other random bits that I've been knitting is the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/sockhead-hat">Sockhead Hat by Kelly McClure</a> on as a pick-up-and-go-kind-of-knit:
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/14155821704" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Sockhead-hat-FO-pink by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="Sockhead-hat-FO-pink" height="267" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7364/14155821704_958527babf_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/13969041320" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Sockhead-hat-FO-3IrishGirls by Kris, on Flickr"><img alt="Sockhead-hat-FO-3IrishGirls" height="267" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7363/13969041320_bb8bacfd78_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm on my third hat...it's potato chip knitting for me. It's also great for stash busting sock yarn.
<br />
<br />
Tons to talk about...now that I can talk about it, I'm looking forward to sharing all the things with you. <b>Thanks for hanging in there while I was MIA.</b>Krishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01685188032844582716noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34282128.post-43467873109315563372013-11-23T10:20:00.000-08:002013-11-23T10:20:18.180-08:00What have I been up to?...Spinning...<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/10916040493/" title="1 of 3 bobbins filled with BFL in the color Olive Tree. #spinning by mommy_of_mac, on Flickr"><img alt="1 of 3 bobbins filled with BFL in the color Olive Tree. #spinning" height="320" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3733/10916040493_cafbd1ee21_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>
<br />
<br />
and more spinning...<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/10999905393/" title="Bobbin #2 done. by mommy_of_mac, on Flickr"><img alt="Bobbin #2 done." height="320" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2894/10999905393_bb84a54a4f.jpg" width="320" /></a>
<br />
<br />
These lovely bobbins are 2 out of the 3 I'm spinning in Frabjous Fibers Blue Faced Leicester (BFL) in the color Olive Tree. It's the first time I'm trying this method, but once it's all grown up I'll have a 3-ply yarn. Kind of excited about it.
Krishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01685188032844582716noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34282128.post-89395407620313368882013-11-01T14:13:00.000-07:002013-11-02T13:58:56.012-07:00Come join the fun: Indie Design Gift A-Long!Some amazing things have been happening behind the scenes with the Indie Designers. There are 170 designers putting on a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/indie-design-gift-a-long">Gift-A-Long from November 1 - December 31</a>. During the next 15 days (Nov 1 - 15) you can choose from nearly 3,000 patterns at a 25% off when you use the code “<b>giftalong</b>”.<br />
<br />
Once you’ve picked your Gift-A-Long patterns, you can join a relevant Knit-Along/Crochet-Along. All of my self-published <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/stores/knifty-red-designs">patterns</a> are eligible for the discount, even the ebooks! What is even better is that there are prizes. Yes... PRIZES!! So go right now and participate in the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/discuss/indie-design-gift-a-long/topics">threads</a> ... From what I'm hearing there are some cool things you can win.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/10568863243/" title="Kniftyred-GAL-collage_5x5 by mommy_of_mac, on Flickr"><img alt="Kniftyred-GAL-collage_5x5" height="450" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5544/10568863243_702e302994.jpg" width="450" /></a>
<br />
<br />
So whether your knitting that gift for a family member or yourself, it's totally worth it to get involved!Krishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01685188032844582716noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34282128.post-32139127799644559542013-09-18T00:17:00.000-07:002013-09-28T19:48:18.888-07:00FO: WendyKnits Summer Mystery Shawl 2013<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/9755371402/" title="SummerMKAL2013-FO-flat by mommy_of_mac, on Flickr"><img alt="SummerMKAL2013-FO-flat" height="302" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7330/9755371402_d6d6b69aee.jpg" width="450" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<b>Pattern:</b> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/wendyknits-summer-mystery-shawl-2013-kal">Summer Mystery Shawl 2013 KAL</a> by Wendy Knits<br />
<br />
<b>Yarn:</b> 1 skein of Fyberspates Scrumptious Lace in gold<br />
<br />
<b>Needle:</b> US 7 circular<br />
<br />
<b>Started:</b> July 31, 2013<br />
<br />
<b>Finished:</b> September 11, 2013<br />
<br />
<b>Notes:</b> Didn't change a thing. It was a perfect knit. There are three sizes available and I went for the largest one. With over a 1000 yds, I knew I wanted to use as much as I could. I still have plenty of leftovers!!<b> </b>The final blocked size was 80 inches wide and 40 inches in height. <br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/9755576404/" title="SummerMKAL2013-FO-sky by mommy_of_mac, on Flickr"><img alt="SummerMKAL2013-FO-sky" height="450" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7348/9755576404_cb416cfc98.jpg" width="302" /></a>
<br />
<br />
These shots where taken at the <a href="http://www.napervilleparks.org/the-riverwalk">Riverwalk in downtown Naperville</a>. I'm so in love with this location. It is on the short list for future photo shoots.
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/9755369882/" title="SummerMKAL2013-FO-back by mommy_of_mac, on Flickr"><img alt="SummerMKAL2013-FO-back" height="302" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7357/9755369882_9691977675.jpg" width="450" /></a>Krishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01685188032844582716noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34282128.post-40088876340744351402013-09-11T23:09:00.000-07:002013-09-11T23:09:01.702-07:00A Little Something...That needs to be finished is the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/kniftyred/wendyknits-summer-mystery-shawl-2013-kal">Wendy Knits Summer Mystery Knit-along</a>... ready for blocking...<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/9725814876/" title="Lace is off the needles, now for a bath and blocking! by mommy_of_mac, on Flickr"><img alt="Lace is off the needles, now for a bath and blocking!" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7302/9725814876_749106c1a9_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>
<br />
<br />
And then BAM! with a 80 inch width and a 40 inch height... it looks like I'll need to grab another set of blocking boards...<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/9726623809/" title="Looks like I need more blocking boards. by mommy_of_mac, on Flickr"><img alt="Looks like I need more blocking boards." height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7433/9726623809_60092a1d2e_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<style>.ig-b- { display: inline-block; }
.ig-b- img { visibility: hidden; }
.ig-b-:hover { background-position: 0 -60px; } .ig-b-:active { background-position: 0 -120px; }
.ig-b-v-24 { width: 137px; height: 24px; background: url(//badges.instagram.com/static/images/ig-badge-view-sprite-24.png) no-repeat 0 0; }
@media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and (min--moz-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and (-o-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2 / 1), only screen and (min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and (min-resolution: 192dpi), only screen and (min-resolution: 2dppx) {
.ig-b-v-24 { background-image: url(//badges.instagram.com/static/images/ig-badge-view-sprite-24@2x.png); background-size: 160px 178px; } }</style>
<a class="ig-b- ig-b-v-24" href="http://instagram.com/kniftyred?ref=badge"><img alt="Instagram" src="//badges.instagram.com/static/images/ig-badge-view-24.png" /></a>
Krishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01685188032844582716noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34282128.post-4879812431422630692013-09-05T22:43:00.000-07:002013-09-05T22:43:06.508-07:00FO: Jacob's Woobie MonkeyIt's been a long time coming, but I've finally put a face on the lingering project for an online sweetheart who had an adorable baby boy named Jacob.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/9682064103/" title="Woobie-Monkey-FO-Jacob by mommy_of_mac, on Flickr"><img alt="Woobie-Monkey-FO-Jacob" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7364/9682064103_9d6f5fc5f9_z.jpg" width="429" /></a>
<br />
<br />
I personalize the blanket with the initial J using a stem stitch embroidery technique. I'm quite pleased with how it turned out. I'm shipping this in the mail in hopes that Jacob adores it as much as I do.
<br />
<br />
The only downside to making something so cute...getting asked by everyone if I can make them one too! I love each and everyone of you out there, but there is no way that will happen.<br />
<br />
Want to make one? Sure, go <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/woobie-monkey">here</a> to buy the pattern for the monkey!
Krishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01685188032844582716noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34282128.post-42303387432942297112013-08-15T13:53:00.001-07:002013-08-15T13:53:11.069-07:00Lace makes me happy.<div style="margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0; font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/9519979030/" title="Lace makes me happy."><img src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2836/9519979030_c010fca0d9.jpg" alt="Lace makes me happy. by mommy_of_mac" /></a><br/><span style="margin: 0;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/9519979030/">Lace makes me happy.</a>, a photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/">mommy_of_mac</a> on Flickr.</span></div><p>This has been on the go with me for some time now. I don't get much non-design knitting now days, but when I do, it's lace. <br /><br />Pattern is WendyKnits Summer Mystery Shawl 2013 KAL.</p>Krishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01685188032844582716noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34282128.post-18363682282443309212013-08-11T15:19:00.000-07:002013-08-11T15:19:26.768-07:00Stitches 2013Another year, another Stitches. Specifically another Stitches Midwest.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mommy_of_mac/9490648712/" title="Stitches2013-haul by mommy_of_mac, on Flickr"><img alt="Stitches2013-haul" height="335" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5338/9490648712_6e99a065a7.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<br />
<br />
The haul that I brought home is sooooo full of goodies, that it just makes me smile. I did notice that I heavy on the Green this year and how can you not fall in love with these precious gems.<br />
<br />
<b>Major highlights:</b> 6 skeins of Madelinetosh Pashmina in the Forestry colorway from the Webs booth, 8 skeins of Glenfiddich Wool in the Spruce Heather colorway, Another Crafty Girl, Miss Babs, 2 lace silky baby camel skeins from Cephalopod Yarns, buttons, beads, blocking mats, signature needle, Cloud Lover fiber, 10 skeins of Silky Wool in brown and Erin Lane bags.<br />
<br />
I'm having such a great time playing with all my goodies. What a great weekend, full of friends, fiber and food. Krishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01685188032844582716noreply@blogger.com0