Shameka Knits

NaKniSweMonday - Chapter 2

2009-11-10T00:10:00.002-05:00

So, I was happily knitting along on my sweater, when I started to run into some issues. The stitch pattern in itself is very easy. So I wondered how could I be having so much issues. It all started when I was at knitting group. I had 1 extra stitch, and I managed to K3tog to hide the small error. The stitch pattern still looked good, so I just carried on. I then got to the decreasing for the waist shaping. By the time I got to the second decrease row, my stitch count was ALL off. I just wanted to cry. So I figured that I would just rip it out, and go down a needle size or two and keep the regular stitch pattern the same. However, I decided to just email the designer anyway in hopes that she would get back to me soon.

Amy Herzog is such a sweetheart. She initially emailed me to let me know that she received the message, and would answer it later on in the weekend because she was traveling. The next email was a step by step explanation of the decreases. So after I got the explanation, I realized what my issue was. I missed a yarnover. Ugh! Why do I keep doing that???

So here is my progress, right before the waist shaping decreases (since I had to rip them back). I have completed 5,880 stitches.

So, while I was perusing through Ravelry, I found another event called Vestvember. Participants finish a vest during the month of November. I have not fully committed to this event just yet. But let's say I hypothetically have enough knitting time to finish a sweater and a vest this month. I would choose Sexy Vesty. It is soooo cute!

Just an FYI.. the other projects have been put on hold. I love the February Fitted Pullover so much that I have been monogamous. OK, enough talking. I've got waist decreases to get back to.

Happy Knitting!

NaKniSweMonday Chapter 1

2009-11-02T22:50:00.002-05:00

In my serious case of startitis, I have managed to fall into the trap once again, and begin yet another project. I am very happy to announce that I am adding the February Fitted Pullover to my list of UFO's. This is my NaKniSweMo project, where I promise myself as well as 473 members of the Ravelry group that I will tackle this sweater to completion by the end of Novemer.
I casted on in the early evening yesterday while drinking a Latte at the Outpost Lounge on Fulton Street in Brooklyn.

The name of this Latte is "Grand" for the street about a block away from the Coffee/Wine Lounge. Taking on this sweater challenge is nothing short of GRAND!
So, I will tell you why I am so enamored with my sweater. Ever since Rhinebeck last year, I have been seeing February Lady Sweaters all over the place. The shape was very similar to my Juliet, and I didn't want to basically repeat the same pattern again. However, I did like the fact that the lace repeat is just 4 rows, 2 of which are straight stockinette. So during my pre-Rhinebeck ravelry scouting, I came across the fitted version to the FLS. I immediately queued it. I just love the way the sweater is shaped to flatter the body instead of hiding it. The pattern calls for a 3/4 sleeve, but I will lengthen them to a normal sleeve length. I really hate having cold wrists. I chose to use Malabrigo Silky Merino in the Amoroso colorway that is soooo gorgeous.

So, without any further adieu, here is my progress. I will make updates every consecutive Monday until it is complete.

2,940 Stitches Complete

4,620 Stitches Complete

I also would like to list the sweaters that will be put on the back burner while this mayhem is going on.

Manos Mulled Wine Raglan Cardigan - I am in the middle of the waist shaping, and then I just have to add the sleeves then the buttons (which I still need to purchase)

Military Cardigan in Cascade Eco+ - I am about 7 inches into the back. I have all the other pieces to complete.

Blue Suede Shoes Shrug - I am 2/3 of the way finished with 1 sleeve. I still have to complete the second sleeve and pick up stitches for the back and collar. There is 1 sleeve that must be reknit because I don't like the way it looks. Plus, i have to mirror the decreases from the new sleeve that is in progress.

OK, that's enough of my honesty. I don't want to list any more for fear that you will tag me as a "knitting lunatic". In my defense.... I completed 3 projects last month. Happy knitting everyone!

Rhinebeck - The Third Time!

2009-10-22T01:25:00.002-04:00

I just got home from my yearly trek to Rhinebeck a few days ago. The whole extravaganza was awesome.
Here is my yarn mountain!

My purchases consist of the following yarns:

5 skeins of Creatively Dyed Woodbrook "Patrice"

5 skeins of Creatively Dyed Woodbrook "Laity"

5 skeins of Malabrigo Worsted "Amoroso"

5 skeins of Malabrigo Silky Merino "Amoroso"

1 skein of Socks that Rock Mediumweight "Muckity Muck"

1 skein of Socks that Rock Mediumweight "Backstabber"

I have been speaking with Dianne of Creatively Dyed via Ravelry messages for about a year, and it was such a pleasure to finally meet her in person. She is a hard-working woman, and always with a smile on her face. I admire her drive, and how far her one-woman-show yarn company has come. I bought her Patrice colorway with Rosamund's Cardigan in mind, then saw Laity and thought "I don't know what I am gonna make with it yet, but this color is too nice to put back on the rack". I am going to make something that is not too busy with intricate stitches so the beauty of the hand-dyed colors can show through. How do you think Francis Revisited will look variegated?

I totally fell in love with the Amoroso colorway of Malabrigo. The color has been difficult for me to find at my LYS as well as the online store that I usually shop at, so when I saw it at the Uncommon Threads booth I grabbed ALL OF THEM. I am going to use the Silky Merino to make the February Fitted Pullover and the Worsted to make Vaila. I saw many February Lady Sweaters this year as well as last year. However, I feel that a fitted sweater would be more flattering on me. Lo and behold, I saw that it was one of the recently published patters the night before I went to Rhinebeck. Yippee!!! I have a feeling that will be my November project.

My sock yarn will be used to make a pair of gloves to match my Crofter's Cowl and Cabled Beret. Here is a finished picture of the Cowl. I didn't have time to block it, but who cares? It's warm and soft, and I love it.

There was much fun to be had. I spent the weekend with Yvonne, Mary Beth, Deborah, Misa, and Kim. We were laughing the whole way through.

My fashion choice for the day was my Fashionista Hat designed by Me and my Bobbled Tunic designed by Twinkle. It was very cold, so I also decided to wear my Crofter's Cowl on my neck. Yvonne wore Mr. Greenjeans, MaryBeth and Deb both wore Ursa, Misa wore Vivian, and Kim has a gorgeous Owl Sweater hiding underneath that coat.

I also managed to run into a bunch of my friends from various knitting groups throughout New York.

Me hangin with Tina from Sit N Knit. I saw her at the Socks That Rock Booth. She had an affinity for Muckity Muck as well.

Me and my birthday twin Jeanine. No, I am not gonna tell you how many years apart we are.

Me and Tawana. My first CPH buddy!

Hangin' with Cleo at the Ravelry Meetup.

The Whatchamacallits! Jeanine, Norma, Marta, Ayana, RosiG, Tawana, and Ann-Margaret.

Me and Ysolda "Bob" Teague.

Misa finished her Monkey Sock at the Ravelry Party. Yay!!

Adding to the list of FO's.... Here is my Springtime Bandit. Funny how it matches my hair.

So, what's on the needles now?

Stay tuned.........

Finishing feels good!

2009-10-07T23:26:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone! I finally finished my Central Park Hoodie #2. Here are the specs

Yarn: Aruacania Naturewool in Amethyst- 4.5 Skeins
Needles: Knitpicks Size 6 and 8
Buttons: Ceramic from Briar Rose Fibers
Size: Medium body, Large sleeves
Mods: I knit this baby all in one piece, removing 2 stitches from the back, and 1 stitch from both the left and right fronts. I joined the shoulders with a 3-Needle bindoff instead of seaming. I added a cable to the hood, and kitchener stitched the hood. I picked up the buttonband all in one piece as to avoid the seam in the center front of the hood.

Here are some pictures.

I also finished blocking my Ishbel Shawl.
Yarn: Malabrigo Sock in Solis purchased at The Fiber Fix
Needles: Knitpicks Size 5
Size: Small Stockinette, Large Lace
Finished Measurements : 52 inches wide, 21 inches long
I love this shawl! This was my first attempt at actually completing one, and my first attempt at blocking lace. My goodness this thing grows a lot!

A few days ago, I started to make Sylvi. I got through the left front to the point where I would have to do the raglan decreases. At this point, the fabric is supposed to measure 26 inches. However, my fabric measures just barely 17 inches. I am so mad!!! I am using Cascade Eco +, and other people on Ravelry have used it with a size 10 needle, and their jackets look great. At this rate, I will end up having something that looks like a maternity sweater. Now, there is a time and place for that....but I am just not there yet. So, to the frog pond I go. I plan on making the Military Cardigan (Ravelry Link) designed by Veronik Avery with this yarn instead. Now, I am on a quest to find Bulky yarn with a gauge of 3 sts/inch....SIGH!!! Cascade LIES!!! Eco + is not bulky. It's heavy worsted

Happy Knitting everyone!

The Home Stretch!

2009-10-01T21:52:00.002-04:00

My blocking extravaganza begins.

Here is a little secret...... this is my first time wet-blocking. The outcome.... I LOVE how the Fabric feels. My last Central Park Hoodie, I hastily steam blocked it. Also, I was able to pull the fabric to make the hoodie a little longer than the instructions specified. Aruacania Naturewool leaves a lot of room for manipulation.

Since I have this almost lavender colored sweater, I figured that it would only be fitting to use lavender scented Euculan Woolwash. I did see a little bit of lavendar dye coming out of the garment once it was soaked, but it wasn't anything too crazy.

Here is a pre-blocked picture.

Here is a close-up

Here is the blocking in action

My main question is.... what took me so long to get to this point?

Once this dries, I will be blocking my Ishbel scarf. (I ran out of pins) I also have to add that I absolutely love A.C. Moore for providing the children's alphabet mat squares. They make wonderful blocking tools.

Central Park Hoodie Update!

2009-09-28T16:14:00.005-04:00

There are a little less than 3 weeks left until Rhinebeck. I have been working on my Central Park Hoodie monotonously. I have managed to knit while watching the entire Season 1 and Season 2 of LOST on Netflix. And lo and behold, through all of the drama, killing, trickery, and mysticism....... I managed to create 2 sleeves that fit, without any mistakes. IT'S ABOUT TIME!

So, I have attached some pictures to help tell this story.

In my last post, I left off with sleeves that were too tight, and a hood with an ugly seam going down the middle of it. I say it's ugly because I know that I am supposed to kitchener it to make it invisible. I guess I will get to that later today. So, here are those pics.

Also, I have some sleeves-in-progress shots.

Last, but not least, here is the final product.

Now, I am off to fix the hood and the buttonband, and maybe block these sleeves today. The FO will come soon, I promise.

I am still here!

2009-09-14T15:40:00.008-04:00

Whoa! Has it really been a whole 3 months since I have posted on this blog? I am so sorry. However, it doesn't mean that the knitting stopped. I have been working on some projects, and I am really trying to kick myself in the booty to get some stuff completed for Rhinebeck in 5 weeks.

Completion #1 - Basic Knee High Socks. I bought this yarn during my last trip to Rhinebeck from the infamous Socks that Rock booth that everyone pounces on, and ends up staying at least 30 minutes on the payment line. Through the corner of my eye I saw this beautiful Pink/Gray/Black skein of yarn, and while standing on the line, I just reached out and grabbed it. It was a Mill End, so the colorway is unknown. Any ideas for a name? Because I love this color so much, I decided to try to use every inch of the yarn. I split it in half and started knitting 2 at a time. from the toe-up. I did a basic short-row heel, and a 2x2 ribbed cuff. I did a stretchy bindoff, so it could stretch around my calf. I am ready to wear these with my snow boots. You can never be too prepared.

Completion #2 - Ishbel - Made with Malabrigo Sock in Solis

I bought this yarn from my friend Vanessa at The Fiber Fix. So, this isn't fully complete because it has to be blocked. I will get to that today. But, here is a pre-blocking picture.
Now, Rhinebeck is coming up soon, and if you remember from last year, I was trying to complete my Central Park Hoodie #2 in time for the festivities. Well, since last year I haven't really touched it. I have gotten startitis with other projects, and my CPH#2 had a few problems that I had put on the back burner. However, they still need some attention, so there is no time like the present.

Here are my issues.

1. In my haste to finish it last year, I didn't kitchener the hood. Instead, I created a seam at the top center of the hood. I proceeded to start the button band. Now that I look at it, I HATE it. So, I am goin to rip out the 300+ stitches on the buttonband, and do it all over.

2. I made the size 36 sleeves, and they just barely fit. I know I haven't been in the gym, but I am still the same size I was when I made my last Central Park Hoodie, so what's the problem? Who knows? So, I will rip them out and make the size 40 sleeves. Many people who have made this popular pattern feel as though the sleeves are tight. My previous CPH sleeves are a little tight too. I have decided that I want to make this a sweater that I can wear with a long-sleeved shirt underneath. So, I will definately rip this out and try it again.

So, aside from that project, here are my most recent works in progress.

The Every Way Wrap - Malabrigo Silky Merino in Dill

Springtime Bandit - Malabrigo Worsted in Stonechat

Kai-Mei - Aruacania Ranco Multy - Pink

Blue, Blue and more Blue

2009-06-03T01:14:00.006-04:00

I am making progress on my Textured Circle Shrug. This thing is flying by so fast. I am alternating skeins of MadelineTosh worsted every 2 rows for the yoke. On the sleeves, I alternate every other row.

This is the finished Yoke Portion

I had to try it on to make sure the sleeves fit. I am following the pattern for 2 sizes up, since I have more stitches per inch than the pattern called for. It fits. Yay!!! Oh, by the way, do you like my curls..... thats what it looks like as soon as I get up. LOL!!! Brush teeth, make breakfast, then knit.

Here is the progress later on that night on the sleeve. Still got a few inches to go.

Aside from knitting, I like to dabble in some Makeup Artistry. I am a self-professed MAC junkie. Usually my neighbor's teenage granddaughter always happens to drop by as I am getting dolled up to go somewhere. So, she has been begging me to do her prom makeup. So, how could I resist on the night of her prom? She has been telling me for months that she is wearing blue and silver, and she wants to look "HOT". So, I decided to give her something bold. I went for the Red Carpet-glam look that made her stand out from the crowd. I mean, you only get dressed up for your prom once right???

So here are my tools.... I told you I was a MAC junkie. This is just the "small" kit for the blue makeup. LOL!!!

Here is Alexis before

And Miss Alexis After

Smokin' Hott!!!

So, what was the report at the prom? Her makeup stayed on till 5 AM, when she got home. All of the boys wanted to dance with her. She danced until her feet hurt. And the makeup still lasted through the afterparty. Hey, sometimes going to the prom purposely without a date is a good thing, when you look "HOT".

Shoes... Ahem.. Yarn Under

2009-05-28T12:15:00.003-04:00

I decided to take on the task of doing some spring cleaning. Of course, this meant organizing all of the yarn first. My past purchases from WEBS and The Fiber Fix were still in the bag that they came in, hidden in the closet somewhere. This was getting ridiculous. I needed to do something, and I needed to do it fast.

So, my mom was clearing out old things from her closet as well, and she bought something called "Shoes Under". So then I thought hmmmmm...I could put my yarn in that. Lo and behold, it worked.

BEFORE

AFTER - Holding 42 skeins of yarn, with room to spare

Here is a secret..... they are selling this thing at Duane Reade and CVS for 9.99. I am sure other major Drug Store chains have it as well. Just check the As Seen on TV section.

My friend Raphael came to my house during by ball-winding shenanigans. He is an architect, and was impressed with the design of the swift. He was even more impressed when he saw it in action, and thought it was an ingenious idea. He said that I was part of an "Underground Knitting Club". Kind of like a fight club, but just for knitting. LOL!!! Call it what you want, but he had to try his hands at ballwinding. Do I see a smile on his face?

So, after balling up that pretty blue MadelineTosh Worsted, I had to swatch and cast on for Stephanie Japel's Textured Circle Shrug. Lion Brand is doing a KAL and although I am a few weeks behind, I am sure that I will catch up without a problem.

Here are the details so far.....

My swatch gave me 5.5 sts/inch instead of the 4.5 stitches the pattern called for. Based on how the fabric looked, I liked my size 6 swatch better than the size 7, which gave me 5 sts/inch. (Whoa Nelly..... I actually did a swatch!!! Yes, It's true) Above the gauge counter is my size 6 fabric, and below it is my size 7. You can't really tell a difference in the picture, but trust me the size 6 fabric feels a lot nicer than the 7. The 7 looks a little "holey" to me.

So, I casted on for the Large size, even though I am a Small. The raglan construction of this pattern makes that very easy. For the S,M,and L sizes, you cast-on the same amount of stitches and just do the raglan increases to fit the specific size. Ever since I made Wicked, I have loved Raglan sweaters, so I think this will be a good one. Also, I am very happy that this pattern goes up to a 2X size. I have a lot of friends and family who are not as small as me, and I think this pattern is gorgeous, and I am happy that the designer didn't forget about them too. Every woman needs gorgeous clothes, regardles of their size.

I am also alternating skeins every 2 rows. I think this is working out very lovely for me. I am just a little worried about what I will do when I get to the sleeves. Any ideas??? I will kindly take any advice.

As for the Spring Cleaning..... I have managed to try on every pair of pants that I have and I realize that 17 don't fit. I put those in a "just in case I lose 10 lbs" bin. I haven't gotten to the shirts yet, because I got sidetracked making shrugs. LOL!!! Wish me luck!

Mystery Sock Madness

2009-05-08T00:01:00.005-04:00

I am officially out of the Sock Madness competition, and I must say that is was an eye-opening experience. I learned many valueable lessons.

On Sock #1, I leared how to do an afterthought heel.

On Sock #2, I learned how to do Fair Isle colorwork.

On Sock #3, I learned how to cable without a cable needle on 2.25mm needles.

On sock #4, I learned the importance of loving the yarn that you use for a project.

So, while knitting my Ishbel Shawl as therapy, I decided to peruse Ravelry and came across The Mystery Sock from The Knitter's Brewing Company. Mystery Sock KAL details can be found HERE! I couldn't resist. I casted on on May 5th. The second portion of the pattern was released on the 5th, so I figured I wasn't too far behind, and with all that Sock Madness bootcamp training, it would be a piece of cake. Yeah, right!!!

Problems have arised, but I am determined to work through it.

First of all, the sock has 99 beads attached on each foot. So, I sorted through my bead collection to find some beads that were supposed to be part of the "Secret of the Stole" KAL from eons ago. So, I got the pretty beads, and matched it up with some stash yarn. Lo and behold, I find some Socks that Rock mediumweight in Cobalt Bloom. Yippee!! It is a harmonious blend of tans, purples, and pinks. The beads are pinkish and have a pearlescent tan shimmer, so it is perfect. Or, so I thought.

I rush to cast on, and grab a needle that I thought was a size 0. It turns out that it was a size 1. However the pattern calls for a size 1 needle....I keep reading.. the sock is 66 stitches. Well, I used a 0 on my sock madness #1 sock, and it worked out fine with my Socks that Rock. OK... cast on. (At this point, I still don't realize that I am using a size 1 needle).

26 rows later, a row away from the end of clue #1, I decide to try on the sock. It is way too big and I am astonished. So, I check my needle stash again. Duh!!! I finally find the size 0 for real this time. RIIIIPPPPP!!!! Cast on again.

So, I am happily on to Clue #2 today, and I figure that since I have a longer length of the sock, that it is worth giving it a try. Here are my results.

Not quite the fit I wanted, and the yarn feels very stiff. I double check the gauge. I get 9 sts per inch. The pattern calls for 36 sts/4 inches. Ummmm.. last time I checked 36 divided by 4 is 9. What is going on? So, I feel like I am about to cry, and wonder if I have any MMMMMMalabrigo sock yarn that will do the trick, since it is really soft, and thinner than the STR Mediumweight. Then I remember.... tadaa!!!.... I have some Archangel that has been sitting in my stash.

I hold the beads up to it, and look at how lovely it glistens.
So, I am about to embark on another casting on journey. Since the pattern calls for 66 stitches, and there are holes and lace, I have decided to use my size 0 AGAIN!!! Three times better be the charm. The 3rd clue comes out on Saturday. Eek!!

On a better note, I recently received a yarn order from WEBS. When I went to the actual store a few weeks ago, I took a pair of shoes with me to match up to any worsted weight I could find. I got the exact color in Madelinetosh's Worsted. The colorway is called Norway Spruce. I am thinking that this will be a Francis Revisited, and the leftover yarn will make a shawl. Possibly, a Springtime Bandit, unless I fall in love with another pattern. I need to have two options to wear my pretty shoes. Sadly, the store didn't have 8 skeins in the showroom, so they made a special order for me. I am so happy. My sock blues are a thing of the past.

On to some more fun news.......Yesterday I attended the Veet Spray On Sioree Summer Kick-Off event. I decided to enjoy a little facepaint since Veet's slogan is "What beauty feels like". Here is a picture. Of course, you know they had to decorate the place pink to match my personality. I loved it!!

I'm Not Feelin' It!!

2009-05-05T15:48:00.003-04:00

Sock Madness had the kickoff of Round 4 last Thursday. I was so excited to get started. The pattern called for a variegated yarn, as well as a solid color. The original designer used MMMMmalabrigo. However, I had other plans for my Mmmmmmalabrigo, so I just used something I had in stash. One day in the past, on a yarn binge, I bought Paton's Kroy Socks 4 -Ply and Stripes. Why? Why ? Why?

So, I used the Paton's yarn, and this is about as far as I have reached.

Front

Back - red line is for the afterthought heel.

I like the pattern, but the yarn feels so rough to me, and I have lost all mojo on this sock. I think I want to turn the yarn into a bird's nest. When did I become such a yarn snob? Geez!

So, the magic number for the people that get through to the next round is 8. As of last night, there were 7 people done. I decided to end the torture and work on this. I don't feel like I really forfeited the competition. I feel like I just decided to make something that was more enjoyable.

Last night I started to work on the lace section of my Ishbel Shawl made put of Mmmmalabrigo Sock yarn in Solis.

So, I checked the Sock Madness blog this morning and saw that position #8 is taken. I don't feel bad at all. I am loving my Ishbel Shawl. It is so soft and Squishy.

The golden rule of life - Do what makes you happy!!!

The Singing Knitter!!

2009-04-29T12:31:00.003-04:00

They say that when you work on one talent, you begin to obtain many more. Around the time that I learned to knit and crochet (Age 10), I also realized that I love to sing. That talent has never left me. Apparently I have some friends that love to play music as well.

Here is some footage from our performance at Solomon's Porch in the BedStuy section of Brooklyn, on April 28th. The male lead singer is R'Kardo, background vocals by Greg and Kira from "The Bridge", guitar by Thierry Remion, keyboard by Shawn Keys, and percussion by Daniel Gould.

Enjoy!!

Come Over

Where is the Love?

The Fiber Fix

2009-04-26T11:58:00.006-04:00

On Friday, I woke up to this lovely sight.

I received my package from The Fiber Fix. They have MMMMMmmalabrigo on sale!! Woohoo!!

I ordered Stonechat Worsted to make Springtime Bandit. I ordered Solis to make Ishbel. After I saw Sharon's, I fell in love. I decided on the Solis Colorway because I wanted it to match a jacket that I have.
So, before I go on about my knitting I just want to talk about Vanessa from the Fiber Fix. A little over a year ago, she became my Ravelry Buddy because she had a few questions about the Central Park Hoodie. She has since made a second one from the top down. She has somehow figured out the secret to converting bottom-up patterns to top-down. She has also made a top-down Vaila that is awesome. So, now a year later, she has opened an online yarn store. Her customer service is amazing and she goes above and beyond to ensure that her customers are happy. I was confused about which color would match my jacket. She sent me a picture of the skeins that she had and let me choose the exact skein that I wanted. It is a perfect match! I also got my yarn in 3 days. The Fiber Fix is awesome. She also let me in on a little secret. She will have a few more yarn brands appearing soon that are just as delicious as Malabrigo. But, I am sorry. I can't divulge the information. I have been sworn to secrecy. So, you will just have to visit the site to check it out. Haha!!

As for my Sock Madness socks, it was brought to my attention that I did the wrong cuff. I did a K2P2 when the directions clearly stated K1tbl, P1. I must have been really tired. So, I had to redo it on Friday. Arrgghh!!! Thankfully I kept my spot in the competition.

I was also able to finish the Peapod Baby Sweater in time for the baby Shower. I made the hat the day of the shower. The shower started at 5. I showed up at 6:15. The mommy-to-be showed up at 6:45. Whew!! That was a close one. She absolutely loved the outfit! She said that she knew she had to get something handmade from me.

Here is a picture of the hot mama!!

4 DAYS!!!

2009-04-24T04:51:00.003-04:00

I completed the Talia's Wing Sock Madness Round 3 sock in 4 days. I am the 7th person in my division to complete it. 12 out of 20 press on, so I have made it through to round 4.

Here are my lovely socks. They are made out of Colinette Jitterbug "FIRE".

An angel wing caught in a WEB!!!

2009-04-21T13:16:00.004-04:00

Sock Madness 3 is in full swing, and I have made it through to the third round. The name of this pattern is Talia's Wings (Ravelry link) . I am using Colinette Jitterbug in the FIRE colorway. The pattern calls for size 1 (2.5mm) needles for this project.

I am a bit on the fence about this pattern. When I first got it in my mailbox and saw that it was toe-up, I was super excited. I like to try on as I go along because it is very gratifying. However, I have been on Ravelry all day yesterday and minute after minute mistakes in the pattern were being discussed in the group. There were a bunch of silly things that could have been fixed if the pattern was thoroughly proofread. For example, what was in the written instructions did not match what was illustrated on the chart. What is up with that?

What makes it worse is, that the pattern had a test knitter. Doesn't that mean that the kinks should be worked out? At this stage of the game, there are 20 people in each of 4 divisions. Only the 12 people who finish first in each division will carry on to round 4. So, that means that the pattern designers had at least 1 month extra than the Round 1 designer. So, why all the mistakes? We are supposed to be running neck and neck in this competition and knitting to the finish. Not stopping a nd ripping back, and being confused about important directions. Arrgghhh!! Whar would have happened if I had not seen the Errata on ravelry? What if I didn't have a chance to log on to the internet? OK... I just had to get that out.

I still think that the pattern is gorgeous. It is just that the execution needed a little more fine tuning when it came to writing it down. That said, here is my progress as of this morning. I finished 1 pattern repeat on the foot. 2 at a time magic loop, baby!

I also made progress on the Peapod Baby sweater. I completed the sweater portion, and just have to sew the shoulders and add a neckline. I also started doing the sleeves, and am about halfway done. But, this sweater has to be put on pause so that I can continue with sock madness. Will is be done in time for the baby shower this weekend? We will see. I also have to do the hat to match. EEK!!! Well, at least I have enough yarn.

So, in other knitting news..... I went to WEBS this past Saturday. I went with Tawana as well as a few friends from the Park Slope Knitting Circle (Liza, Marci. Katherine, and Shannyn). We had such a blast. When I walked in the store I took a deep breath... the I got an instant headache, because I wanted it all and didn't know where to start. LOL!! It was very overwhelming.

I ended up buying some Malabrigo Sock in Tiziano Red, Cascade Eco + in a Burgandy color, Filatura Di Crosi Zara in Raspberry, 2 skeins of Austermann Step, and a discontinued Rowan Cashsoft DK. Everything was in the pink/purple/red family. Don't worry.. I have plans for all of these yarns.

Malabrigo Sock will become the Ishbel Shawl or a pair of socks from Cookie A.'s book
Cascade Eco + will become a Sylvi from Twist Collective
Zara will become Shirley Paden's Interlocking Cables pattern
Rowan Cashsoft DK is an extra skein bought for my in-progress Snuggle sweater
Austermann Step... I just wanted those and the were on sale. I suspect they will become Cookie A. socks.

So, Sunday I look at my receipt and see that the 25% discount that I received didn't include the Cascade Eco+. Apparently, some of the colors were on sale, and had no further discount, but these skeins I picked up were full price. So, I called WEBS on Monday, and the Customer Service rep was able to look my receipt up in the computer, comfirm that my skeins of yarn were actually discountable, and he credited me back the difference to my card. WOW!! Great Customer Service!

OK, enough of me talking. Here are some pictures from WEBS.

Outside

Just walked through the door

Malabrigo Sock and Silky Merino display (I scooped up the last Tiziano Red on display, hence the empty rack next to the Terracotta)

View of the back of store near the warehouse entrance

Warehouse views

Tokena Complete!!

2009-04-16T23:09:00.005-04:00

I have been finished with the Tokena Socks since the 10th, which makes this a record for me. I finished a pair of socks in 6 days. Yes, less than a week. I think I need some ice cream to celebrate!! Here is a nice picture as I am attempting to "Sous-sus" and balance on the stairs at the same time. Well, It's not exactly 5th position ballet, but I had to prevent myself from falling. It's been over 10 years.. LOL!!

Now, there is a slight boo-boo in these socks. The pattern said to decrease the toe until there were 8 stitches on each needle. I did that. However, the pattern was written for 4 needles, not magic loop. Ooops!! So, my socks have pointy toes. Well it's a good thing that I have pointy feet. Also, one side is a bit more snug than the other, but I am just glad they fit my skinny ankles perfectly. Yippee!! Oh Yeah... I see the hole by the gusset. Do we really have to acknowledge that??? Cuz.. I know I said I saw it, but I don't really see it. LOL!! The colorwork was a lot of fun, and I am so happy that I conquered it. It is truly much easier than it looks.

And remember the lovely Peapod Baby Sweater that I started? Here it is. I am almost at the point where I have to separate for the sleeves/arms.

Sock 1 of Tokena done!

2009-04-07T12:32:00.004-04:00

I finished Sock #1 of Round 2 last night. I really like this sock. The colorwork is gorgeous, and when I look at it I say "I can't believe I did it". This sock goes by really fast. I knit 1 side in 3 days, and had interruptions. You know..... family, friends visiting, cooking breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

So, I have already casted on for sock #2, and made it halfway through the ribbing. Here is a picture of the completed sock.

Making progress in Round 2

2009-04-05T23:13:00.003-04:00

I am happily making progress on my Sock Madness Round 2 socks. The name of the pattern is Tokena. Here are some progress pictures.

Outside

Inside

Beginning Heel flap

I just want to say that I love this pattern. The colorwork is a lot easier than I thought it would be. So, why have I never tried this before??? Geez!!! More updates tomorrow.

A little splurge!!

2009-04-02T10:21:00.006-04:00

The Point yarn shop had a sale to celebrate it's 4th year of existence. I decided to have a look around, since I was missing one of the suggested yarns for Sock Madness. Initially we were given a list of 7 different yarn specs, so that we can get an idea as to what the test pattern was knit with and substitute. The trick is, we don't know which round each pattern will be. There was a pattern that called for 2 contrasting solids and it was made with Louet Gems. So, after looking through my stash and seeing that only had variegated and stripey sock yarn, I set out on a journey.

As soon as I asked the lovely salesperson about sock yarn, she said "We have a few skeins of Malabrigo left". I think that is knitting terminology for "I Love you, and I know you will love me back". I picked up 3, as they were all 20% off. The colors are Boticelli Red and Chocolate Amargo. Technically, it is enough to make 3 pairs of socks. The pattern specs call for 185 yards of each color and with Malabrigo I have 440 to spare. So, what will I make with the leftover Boticelli Red? I have always wanted a pair of Lissajous socks. Yippee!!! When I got home, I saw the post on Ravelry stating that the round 2 pattern would need "2 contrasting solids". Hmmm.....did I have a premonition??

So, back to the Point. I told the lovely saleswoman about my Sock Madness, and she said "Did you know Cookie A's pattern book is out?". Hmmm....I didn't now that. I have been out of the country and out of the loop for a whole month. They don't have Cookie A. books in Trinidad. LOL!! The book is awesome. She focuses on designing your own socks, as well as gives some really gorgeous patterns. So, yeah it ended up coming home with me.

Lastly, my best friend is having her very first baby. I was there for her mini arguments with her boyfriend, I was there when he apologized, I was there when he proposed, I was there at the wedding, hooked them up with a hotel for the Honeymoon. So, I have to make something for the little bun in her oven. However, I don't know if it will be a boy or girl. Sigh..... "We are painting the baby room green and yellow", she says. I said "How do you expect me to make something for the baby when I don't even know what color to choose?" ARRGGHHH!!!

So, I saw some Debbie Bliss Superwash Rialto in Brown for 30% off. I am adding some green bird buttons to the sweater. Boy or girl, the baby will wear it. I am making the 12 month size. These babies grow so quickly. It will technically be 6 months in the fall, but I am leaving some "just in case this baby grows too fast" room. Oh yeah, and I have to finish this sweater before the 25th. Here are some pics of the beginning of it. It is going to be a Peapod Baby Set, I swear. LOL!!! Oh, the pattern isn't available online anymore. Luckily I had a copy of it from the last time I made it, about 1 and a half years ago. (Deb thanks for helping me out as well)

Here are some pics.

Buttons
It's gonna be a sweater, I swear!!

Yarn Sale!!!

Round 1 Complete !

2009-03-31T16:39:00.003-04:00

Here are my lovely Sock Madness Round 1 socks.
The pattern is called Tropical Mer-tini. It is a little hard to see, but there is a "drunken quilt" motif on the sock. I knit it using size 0 Knitpicks 47" Circular needles, two at a time, magic loop. The Yarn is Socks That Rock Mediumweight in a Rare Gems colorway. It looks like it was supposed to be a Raven colorway that didn't quite take too well. Nonetheless, I really like it.

Making this sock has taught me a few things.

The first is that I can actually knit a pair of socks in less than 2 weeks.... 11 days to be exact. Wow!!
I also learned the German Cast On, which I will be using from now on. It is very stretchy around the cuff. The afterthought heel is very interesting, and I like the design of the slip stitch pattern. This sock also had me Kitchener stitch both the toes and the heel. So, once again I have defeated that enemy. Thank God for YouTube video tutorials, because that never sticks in my head.

Now, I will rest until the sock drama begins for Round 2.

It Fits!!!

2009-03-23T12:36:00.004-04:00

Here is my sock madness sock, after creating the opening for the afterthought heel.

Here is a pic of both socks on the needles. I am soooo happy that I decided to go down a needle size. It fits perfectly.

Ok, back to knitting. This is a race and 7 of my competitors finished already. Must. Knit. Faster.....

Skinny Ankles and the Trouble They Cause

2009-03-20T16:14:00.003-04:00

I decided to change the yarn that I intended to use for my sock madness sock. I apologize to those of you that loved the Koigu. I promise I will use it on a sock that will do it more justice. I felt that a darker color would make the pattern look a little nicer. The name of the pattern is Tropical Mer-tini, which made me think of Mermaids and the deep blue-green sea. Hmmm... maybe my thoughts are still in Trinidad, who knows? This pattern is a knit/purl combo that is full of texure. I decided to use my Socks that Rock Rare Gems that I bought at Rhinebeck.

So, here is my progress so far.

This pattern has a few new techniques that I have to learn in order to be successful.

The first, is the German Twisted Cast-On. I Love it. It makes your sock cuff very stretchy. I found a Video of it on YouTube that was very helpful.

The second technique is the Afterthought heel. I ave never tackled this before, but the designer of the pattern has some clear photographs on Flickr, so the technique looks like it can be done without me having to pull my hair out.

So, I was busy working on my cuff today, and I thought to myself, let me try these on. I knew that if they were too big that I would be in trouble, because my mom doesn't even like this color yarn, so I couldn't even gift it to her. So, I decided that anything I make in this competition will be MINE!!!! I tried it on and guess what????

It's too freakin' big. Aaarrgghh!!! Now, I have to do this all over.... (tears). This is supposed to be a competition. God, why did you bless me with skinny ankles???

Preparing for Sock Madness!!

2009-03-18T22:49:00.004-04:00

Tomorrow morning marks the beginning of a new journey that I am about to embark on. It is called Sock Madness. This is my attempt to try out some new patterns, work on my stash yarn, and see how nimble-fingered, I really am. I have 2 weeks to finish the first sock. I have already received the specs, and found out that the pattern was test knit using Koigu KPPPM. I am working on swatching.

Here is the gorgeous-ness up close and personal. I don't even know the name of the colorway. Let's just call it "Round 1 Lilac".

In order to prepare for this, I managed to finish my camera sock that has been sitting in limbo forever. I had to fight with the kitchener monster. I finally won. Sheesh!! It is always an ordeal.

I have also decided to frog a mystery sock that I have been working on. The mystery has been revealed since November. The sock has a cable in it that looks gorgeous...however, cables on size 1 needles are such a PAIN!!! I also missed a stitch, and can't find what I did wrong, so off the needles you go. I need to swatch with that needle.

More updates on my sock progress soon.

Craft Mojo still going!!!

2009-02-26T07:43:00.006-05:00

Hello my beautiful people. I know you all miss me. You probably just gave up on checking my blog because there hasn't been any new posts. I am so sorry, but I was busy getting myself into some more crafty stuff. Don't worry... my knitting hands still work. So, let's rewind a bit.

I left for my trip to Trinidad in the beginning of February. Before I left, I tried to attend as many knitting-related events as possible. I figured that I might as well work on my Top Down Raglan Cardigan, because it would be straight stockinette knitting, and easily transportable since it was 1 skein of yarn.

So, here is a picture of it during knit night. (I forgot what night it was, as it is all a blur now)
The next morning, I found this big boo-boo on my Raglan decreases. Ummmm... did they spike my coffee at the shop? Geez!!!

So, the next step was to do this.

Yes, I got pissed off and frogged the whole thing. Since I Spit-spliced the yarn, this is a picture of two full skeins wound into 1 yarncake. I didn't think it would be possible on my regular-sized ball winder, but a bit of pissed-off-ness and vengeance helped to wrap it really tight. LOL!

I met up with Deborah for some knitting therapy and was able to finish this Crochet Scarf for her before I flew out.
Aside from that, I participated in the Knitfiti event on January 15th at the Time Warner Building to help Jamba Juice promote their delicious steel cut Oatmeal. I was interviewed, and here is the VIDEO to prove it. It was so much fun!

So we move on in the time scale to Feb 5th. I am on the plane in Miami, waiting for my connecting flight to take off. There is some oil spillage in the engine, and the plane is grounded for about 1.5 hours before takeoff. Luckily, I had my MMMMmmalabrigo laceweight yarn and some size 4 bamboo needles. 5 days later, this pretty Hemlock Ring exposed itself. I thought it would be difficult, but the pattern is very easy. It is not your typical plane knitting, but I only had 1 mistake and was able to fix it fast. The flight attendant said " you're not done with my shawl yet?" LOL!! A lot nicer than the other horror stories that I have heard about knitting while flying.

So, I put the knitting down for a while, because I decided that I want to make my carnival costume. So before I get into that, I want to explain a little bit about carnival. It is derived from the time of Colonists and Slaves in the Caribbean, and was the only day that they slaves had any freedom. They wore costumes to mock the slavedrivers and danced to drum music. It has evolved into a whole culture of music, food, fabulous costumes, competitions, and a big money-maker for the islands of Trinidad and Tobago. When you "play mas" (short for masquerade) you have the opportunity to pay for the privelage of being part of the parade for 2 days. My particular band, TRIBE, offered us an all inclusive package complete with a gorgeous costume, port-a-potty truck, mobile cool-down unit, premium drinks, breakfast, lunch, snacks, goody bag, the hottest DJ's, and top of the line security. Not to mention a sea of other masqueraders/hotties to dance with. However, it is customary with TRIBE that their band members wear the bikini tops for both Monday and Tuesday. Many people do that without any problems. However, I am a different story. Trinidad is Hot, Hot, Hot, and I sweat if I walk down 1 block. So, I decided to make my own outfit for Carnival Monday.

The theme this year was Birds of a Feather, and my costume was the Hummingbird.... Hence the purple and green colors.

This is what I had to work with.

Starting the sewing.

1 hour later

Finally done

I just want to make one disclaimer. Although the costumes are a tad bit skimpy, what I see when I look at them is the beauty and the art and the craft of Mas-Making. It is such an amazing thing to see the amount of work and intricate detail that goes into making these fabulous costumes. Check out me and this depiction of a Brazilian Macaw

So, who is coming with me next year?

The Bodysnatcher!!

2008-12-15T00:09:00.005-05:00

So, I tried on my sweater before I seamed the sleeves, just to get an idea of how it would fit. I am home with my mom, so she becomes my fashion critic.

Me: Mommy, I want you to tell me how this looks.
Mom: Stares at me like I have two heads
Me: Come on, it's just not finished yet...but I need you to tell me if the fit is ok.
Mom: It looks like revenge of the Bodysnatchers. Look at how those two things are just hanging on the side.
Me: Those are the sleeves. I just have to seam them. Ugghh!!!

Fast forward to the Sit N Knit Holiday Party, where muggles are not allowed.
"Oh, I LOVE your sweater" "Did you make that?" "How long did it take?" "Oh, and it matches your hat" "I LOVE Bobbles" "You must be so warm in that" "Is that a Twinkle pattern?" "Where can I find a pattern?" "You look all cuddly and snuggly.. can I touch your sweater.. can I hug you?"

Rule #1 when knitting - Never ask a Muggle for advice.
Here is my sweater. I am contemplating making a second one.

Here are some more highlights from the party.

First off, I met Louise who was my gift exchange knitter. She picked my name out of the bag, and I couldn't be any happier with my gift.

She made me a Tudora scarf/cowl. It matches my coat perfectly. Yay!!
The recipient of my gift was Katya. I made a hat that I designed, which I now declare "The Fashionista Hat". Yes, it was inspired by the super-fashionable MJB many blog posts ago. I think that had a little to do with it. LOL!! Don't we look super-cute?? Katya loves the hat, and I am so happy to have her as a new friend. It was made using Cascade Magnum, and it took somewhere between 2-3 hours to make and seam together.

So, next up was the raffle with super-cool prizes. I donated 4 sets of Sit N' Knit Stitch Markers to the raffle. Jen, who was sitting at my table won them, and then she won another prize, and another, and another. I actually won a pair of my own stitch markers as well, but I put my name back into the raffle to give someone else a chance to win them. Karma is good. I won this book in return, with the same ticket number. Yipee!!

I got to hang out with some cool friends. Yes, we had a baby in a bar!!! Good thing she wasn't reaching for my drink. LOL!!! And, here is the proud and beautiful mommy, Tawana. She is wearing her Tilted Duster, and the hat that she received as a gift. It looks like the Republic hat.

I also got to see some familiar faces that I haven't seen in a while.

Here is Allena who moved out of New York to pursue a different career path.

Here are Sahara and Marva who I haven't seen in months, even though we live in the city. Life just gets busy in the city.

The best part?? Homemade cookies with my initials on it!!! They were super-good. Kudos to A-M for baking them.

Although the beginning of my weekend was a little downtrodden with some Corporate America BS, the knitting party on Saturday truly lifted my spirits. Knitting friends are the best!!! I had such a blast.

On another note, I have all the time in the world to knit now. So, hit me up if you wanna go fondle some yarn at a store, or if you are still stuck on how to do two socks at a time, toe-up, on a magic loop.

My next stop will be volunteering at the Seaman's Church Institute. They need people to knit for the men and women who work on those freight ships and barges, and don't get to be home for the holidays. Won't you send them a little love. Contribute to a care package.