Tag Archives: shawls

May 12, 2013 · 6:35 pm

Fine Art, Rowan Style.

I’ve just received my skein of Rowan Fine Art sock yarn in color#304, Raven, along with the Fine Art Collection booklet  to review for Rowan Yarns.  My very first impression, gorgeous yarn, my second impression, oh my, it’s so soft!DSCF4055

Measuring at 437 yards (400m), one skein of  Rowan Fine Art is perfect for a pair of socks, a scarf, an infinity cowl, a shawlette and more.  Now to decide what my skein will become, such a challenge for a knitter!

Do you have a favorite so far from the  Fine Art Collection ?  If yes, which pattern do you love the most?

Here’s your chance to give Rowan’s Fine Art yarn a try with this FREE pattern for a stunning lace scarf, designed exclusively for the Rowan website by Lisa Richardson. This stylish scarf shows off the beauty of this yarn perfectly and the pattern is suitable for beginners.

Courtesy of Rowan Yarn

Courtesy of Rowan Yarn

Be sure to login, then just click the link to download your FREE pattern: http://www.knitrowan.com/designs-and-patterns/patterns/robin-scarf

You can pre-order Fine Art online at Webs and  Jimmy Beans Wool.  Better yet, you can pre-order  the entire eight color collection at Simply Socks Yarn Company.  Be sure to ask your local shop if they will be carrying Rowan Fine Art too, I know mine will be!

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May 8, 2013 · 6:25 am

Yarn Along: Work in Progress and Of Course Reading!

Two of my favorite things are knitting and reading, and the evidence of this often shows up in my photographs.  I love seeing what other people are knitting and reading as well.  So, what are you knitting or crocheting right now? What are you reading?  ~ Ginny from Small Things

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Still reading  The Shell Seekers by Rosamunde Pilcher and I’m happy to say I’m half way through the book.  I’ve had too many distractions lately that have been keeping me away from this book, maybe this evening I’ll just sit and read and give myself a knitting break!

My project bowl is overflowing but I’m working on  each project a little at a time.  Keeps one motivated to have a few WIPs going!  I should be done with the front of my Cabazon soon, just four more rows and then I will start the back piece.

So, what are you knitting, crocheting or spinning?

Any good books lately?

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May 4, 2013 · 6:24 am

A Case of Startitis!

Startitis is a term used somewhat jokingly among knitters. It refers to an expensive, but rarely fatal affliction that often affects knitters and crocheters where they begin several projects all at one time but don’t really make much progress on anything before starting another new project. ~ Knit Wiki

Knitting WomanI would first like to say, it’s all Glenna’s fault, and I’m sticking to that excuse!  But in reality, well folks, I have a bad case of “startitis” and it started when Glenna posted her sock projects in simple patterns using beautiful fingering weight yarns.  The desire to cast on socks kept growing and growing  until I finally relented,  and yes, I gave in!

So, I have casted on Lara Smoot’s On Stranger Tides this morning using my stash of Springtree Road Muscandine in Tanis and will be casting  on Glenna’s A Niced Ribbed Sock using my newly acquired Patons Kroy in Grey Brown Ragg.  While I’m at it, I also hope to make a pair of crocheted slippers for my Mom for Mother’s Day, the Crocodile Slippers by Bonita Patterns.   See, I told you I have a bad case of “startitis”.  Is there a cure for this???  The bright side, I’ll not be bored!

Current Projects on the Needles and Hooks:

As a knitter, crocheter, or spinner, have you ever had the urge to cast on many projects?  I know I can’t be the only one out there :)

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May 2, 2013 · 4:58 am

On the Bookshelf: Shawls, Wraps and Scarves

Since I’ve been busy knitting shawls and have started a scarf, I thought it would only be fitting to review a book that Sixth & Spring Books recently sent to me called Classic Elite Shawls, Wraps & Scarves: 20 Ideas,  3 Ways.

Inside you will find twenty ideas turned into a total of 60 patterns, all featuring Classic Elite’s  luxurious high-quality fibers, such as  cotton, wool, bamboo, angora and cashmere, all of which can easily be substituted to meet your needs. So what does this really mean?  It means that you as a knitter  have endless possibilities for creating fabulous accessory pieces!

Each project chapter provides very well-written step-by-step instructions, charts where needed, along with tips for choosing colors and yarns, as well as  gorgeous color photographs of the finished accessory piece.  Designers include Anniken Allis, Cheryl Murray, Tonia Barry, Jean Moss, Brooke Nico, Carol Sulcoski,  Susan Mills and more, creating brand new fresh designs in lace, cables, stripes and ruffles.

This book currently retails for $16.02,  which means each pattern only cost 27 cents.  Now that’s what I call a bargain!

Projects Include:

  • Easy Stripes - A striped shawl, shawlette and a cowl
  • Jewel Tones – A buttoned neck wrap, a shawlette and a coat scarf
  • Pretty in Pink - A swirl edged stole, a single repeat scar and a multiple repeat scarf
  • Block Party – An asymmetrical shrug, a block and garter scarf, and a cowl neck capelet
  • Power Cables – A cabled scarf, cabled neck warmer and a cabled wrap
  • Daisy Chain – A keyhole scarf, jabot and a patchwork scarf
  • Shades of Gray – A worsted weight scarf, laceweight scarf and a chunky scarf
  • Lacy Leaves – A Leaf lace ruff, leaf lace shawl and a leaf lace scarf
  • Red Alert – A mohair capelet, scarf and wrap
  • Wrap Stars – A zigzag wrap, capelet and cowl
  • Rich Ruffles – A ruffled cowl, scarf and wrap
  • Light & Lacy – A chunky lace stole, hooded scarf and a light lace wrap
  • Linen Stitch – A variegated scarf, three color scarf and a solid color scarf
  • Fun & Funky – An I-cord scarf, zigzag scarf and a loop scarf
  • Short Rows – An eyelet scarf, wedge scarf and a light lace shawl
  • Just Peachy – A triangle shawl, a beehive lace scarf and a collared capelet
  • Nordic Star – A striped scarf, asymmetrical scarf and a buttoned gaiter
  • Bars & Stripes – A striped muffler, buttoned wrap and a striped infinity scarf
  • Silk & Coton – An eyelet cowl, leaf motif scarf and a leaf motif poncho
  • Cream & Sugar – A lace cowl, shawlette and wrap

Here’s a small sampling of designs, but be sure to visit Ravelry to view all 60 patterns.

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(Photos: Courtesy of Sixth & Spring, and Classic Elite Yarns)

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So that you can enjoy all the wonderful designs in this new collection, Classic Elite has a Knit Along going that got started April 15th and will end June 15th. To be considered for the knit-a-long, your project must be listed on Ravelry with the tag SWSKAL.  For more information on this knit along, please visit Classic Elite’s blog online or the Classic Elite Ravelry Group!

For me personally, well I have to tell you that I really like this collection and could see knitting the majority of what’s inside.  What I like most about this book is that fact it gives knitters a variety of designs by simply mixing and matching colors, textures of yarns and fibers, and stitch patterns.  This book has something for all levels of knitting and projects that will keep you interested.  If you enjoy accessory pieces as much as I do,  then you might want to add this particular book to your library.

Until next time, happy knitting, crocheting, spinning and crafting!

Disclaimer: This copy has been sent to me by Sixth and Spring Books for review. Please note that the above opinions are my own.

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April 11, 2013 · 6:16 am

Are you ready to add a little “sparkle” to your life?

Ideal for lace stitch accessories this yarn is lightweight and glamourous, the sequins give a unique and random pattern to the finished knitted fabric, making it ideal for evening wear or just that little bit of added sparkle.

Rowan Kidsilk Haze Glamour in Smoke

If you’re a fan of Rowan’s Kidsilk Haze, you’ll love Glamour!  This luxurious and ultra soft new yarn is a blend of 55% mohair, 22% silk, 20% nylon and 3% polyester and is currently available in eight colors.  I would say this yarn is perfect for scarves, shawls and even shrugs.

Be sure to check out the Glamour Collection that features 14 designs by Marie Wallin, Martin Storey, Lisa Richardson, Gemma Atkinson and  Jem Weston using the new yarn.

Inside you’ll find a variety of patterns ranging from simple tunics to elegant shawls, and designs for all levels of knitting.

My personal favorite in this collection is Romance designed by Martin Storey.  This lacy shrug is knitted in one piece from cuff to cuff and is perfect for an intermediate knitter.  I can see wearing this piece for a elegant dinner or a special night out on the town!

To view all the designs, visit Rowan Online or Ravelry.

For the month of April, Rowan has added the Gypsy Shawl designed by Sarah Hatton to the member’s monthly exclusive free pattern section .  This elegant creation features a very simple lace design with a lovely diamond spine.  This project requires 5 skeins of Glamour and a size  US 8 (5mm) needle.

I love the two new designs that Churchmouse Yarns has just released using Glamour.  The Glamour Beaded Mohair Scarf and the Glamour Ruched Wrap are both simple projects that will add a bit of elegance to your wardrobe.

Here’s a few designs using Kidsilk Haze that would be perfect for Glamour too!

Have you ever knitted items using Rowan Kidsilk Haze or Glamour?  If so, what is your favorite design to use this yarn for?

Until next time, happy knitting, crocheting, spinning and crafting!

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April 3, 2013 · 5:17 am

Yarn Along: Work in Progress and Of Course Reading!

Two of my favorite things are knitting and reading, and the evidence of this often shows up in my photographs.  I love seeing what other people are knitting and reading as well.  So, what are you knitting or crocheting right now? What are you reading?  ~ Ginny from Small Things

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As you can see, I’ve got several projects going at the moment.  What was I thinking???

On the needles in pink is the Game of Thrones Mystery KAL, which I’m excited to finally be able to use my stash of Springtree Road Philomath worsted.  I think this project is leaning towards a simple cowl and so far I really like it!  On the needles in beige is the Lizzy Lid, which I’m knitting for a friend who was just diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer.  I love this pattern, just the right amount of lace for soft look.  This is the second hat I’ve knitted for her in the last few days but will be knitting a few more for her to keep her head warm during chemotherapy.  On the needles in blue is my Capriole, a mystery shawl KAL by Remily Knits and I just received clue 2 today.  I’m also working on my Cottonista Triangle Shawl, but it’s taken a back seat to the other projects I’ve got going.

As far as reading goes, I’m still reading The Alchemist’s Daughter by Katharine McMahon.  I have mixed feelings about this book.  To me it’s good, but doesn’t really have much to do with alchemy other than the mention of it here and there.  I’m almost done with it so I’ll give my thoughts about it later.

Be sure to enter my drawing to win a free copy of Rowan Yarns Knitting and Crochet Magazine, Issue 53.

What have you been reading or listening to?

Are you working on one project or many ?

Until next time, happy knitting, crocheting, spinning and crafting!

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November 25, 2012 · 11:52 am

Update on my 2012 Knitting Goals

As the end of the year approaches, I thought I would see how I’m doing on the goals I set for myself this year.

After reviewing my goals at the beginning of this year, I have to say I’m pretty proud of myself in the fact I managed to meet the majority of the goals I set.

I still have a month to go, so fingers crossed, I still might finish up the year really good!

So, here’s what I planned for 2012:

  • Knit at least 4 pairs of socks
  • Knit at least 8 shawls – I joined Romi’s lovely Pins & Lace Club, this will ensure I do this!
  • Knit at least 4 lace scarves
  • Knit 2 sweaters – one for me and one for my Mom
  • Create at least 6 new designs to include, hats, scarves and wraps
  • Learn new techniques such as two a time socks, Fair Isle/Colorwork, toe up socks
  • Development an understanding of lace knitting and hone my skills
  • When I join KALs (knit along) or SALs (spin along), I will be dedicated and I will finish what I start
  • Spin more fiber to create gorgeous handspun for knitting projects – I now have 3 wheels and they need to be put to use!  I joined the Raverly Group, 12 in 2012 , which has a goal to  spin 12 pounds of fiber over the year and I belong to the Spin a Shawl group.  I think both will help with this goal.

So, here’s what I’ve managed so far:

  • Three and 1/2 pairs of socks - Nutkins , Monkeys, Hollow Oak and 1/2 pair of Calla Lilly Tweeds.  I might be able to finish up my Calla Lilly Tweeds to meet my goal of four pairs of socks this year yet!  Goal 1/2 way met!
  • I managed to finish six shawls this year, which is more than I thought I would be able to do.  So, I knitted  198 Yards of Heaven, Chocolate Oaklet, Arroyo, Double Leaf Saroyan, Fiddle Knits Mystery Shawl, Fall Color Schooner and I’m getting ready to cast on another mystery shawl, Rivendell.  I did not knit a single design from the lace club but hope to next year. Goal almost met!
  • For scarves, I’ve managed to knit one that turned into a design, which was my Los Verdes, a textured lacy scarf.  I also did a test knit for Meghan of Meghan Knits, a great lacy cowl called Wanted, which  added to my goal of scarves.  On the needles is my Amaranth Kernel and getting ready to cast on the Dwarven Scarf, a mystery KAL from Fiddle Knits.  I might manage to meet my goal this year, but I rather doubt it.  Goal 1/2 way met!
  • I’m excited to report that I finished three cardigans this year, which includes my Cotton Raglan, Vodka Lemonade and my Aidez.   On this needles is Acer, the cardigan I’m knitting for my Mom.  Goal met!
  • Designing didn’t seem to be in the cards this year, but that really is ok with me as I’ve been super busy with family, work and many other projects.
  • I’ve learned one new technique this year which was toe-up socks.  I still need to learn other things, but have plenty of time next year.
  • I did stick with the KALs I jointed this year, which I am proud of myself for doing. Goal met!
  • I did spin more fiber this year but did not really participate in the  12 in 2012 Raverly Group or the  Spin a Shawl group.  What really helped me with spinning this year was a SAL with my friend Elseline in England.  I’ve had the motivation to spin new fiber and to stick with a weekly goal.  It’s been fun.  Goal met!

Now it’s time for me to start thinking about goals for 2013.  I don’t think I will get as carried away as I did this year, but you never know :)

Did you set goals for the year?  If so, how are they coming?

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September 19, 2012 · 4:15 am

Yarn Along: Knitting With a Bit of Reading!

Two of my favorite things are knitting and reading, and the evidence of this often shows up in my photographs.  I love seeing what other people are knitting and reading as well.  So, what are you knitting or crocheting right now? What are you reading?  ~ Ginny from Small Things

I finished up my Fantasia shawlette over the weekend and I love the way it turned out.   For a first time in participating in a mystery KAL, it was truly a lot of fun!  I started working on Kernel by Bonnie Sennott and I also casted on Schooner, a lovely design by Lori Gayle (shown in the photo above).  I plan to work on both of these projects throughout the month of September and then will start on m Mom’s cardigan.

I finished up Mockinjay yesterday morning and have to say that I was rather disappointed in the final book to the Hunger Games series.  I think the first novel of this series was by far the best, but that’s just my own humble opinion.  I have since started reading Into the Wilderness by Sara Donati.  While I’m only on the fifth chapter of this book, I can already tell I’m going to really enjoy it.  The beginning reminds me so much of James Fenimore Cooper’s “Last of the Mohicans” and I already have found myself drawn to the main characters.

So, what are you working on and what are you reading?

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August 21, 2012 · 5:25 am

Pattern Spotlight: Amethiste

My dear online friend Robin Ulrich of Robin Ulrich Studio has just released a gorgeous new shawl design called Amethiste.  I love the simple elegance of this top-down triangular design and look forward to knitting my very own this year.

For those of you who enjoy shawl knitting, Robin has provided both written and charted instructions, as well as a link to a short video on how to create a garter stitch tab.  This pattern also includes instructions for two sizes, a shawlette and a shawl.   When finished and blocked, the shawlette will measure approximately 22″ deep and 56″ wide, and the shawl will measure approximately 28″ deep and 76″ wide.

For this project you will need:

  • 1 skein of fingering weight yarn for the shawlette size and 2 skeins of fingering weight yarn for the shawl size
  • Circular knitting needles in size US 6 ( 4.0 mm) and size US 7 (4.5 mm)
  • Stitch Markers

Photo courtesy of Robin Ulrich

Amethiste is a fun and fast project to knit as well as being a versatile shawl to wear, with the wide triangle shape easily draping over the shoulders or around the neck in a variety of stylish ways. Knit from the top down in a choice of two sizes, this design showcases just one or two skeins of special fingering weight yarn. ~ Robin Ulrich

Be sure to check out Robin’s other beautiful designs at Ravelry and Craftsy.  And be sure to follow her online at Robin Ulrich Studio  and online at Twitter.

Until next time, happy knitting and crafting!

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August 13, 2012 · 5:07 pm

Lace shawls for the knitting!

I opened my mailbox to a wonderful surprise, my third installment of Romi’s Pin’s & Lace shawl club arrived.

Hot summer days and nights.  Everyone – even the flowers – dreams of cool drinks and evening breezes.  Lazy hazy summer days: perfect for cool silk and frosted beads.  Summer’s design is a lovely lacy half circle, with shaping loosely based on a Pi shawl.  It’s the perfect knit for a late summer day with iced tea in hand! ~ Romi Hill

I’m so excited to finally be able to try a skein by Dye For Yarn.  This particular design will being a skein of 100% Tussah Silk in a gorgeous amethyst color.  Included in my package were beads, a lovely pin designed by Romi Hill and a small temptation of what the shawl will be for the month of August.  I can’t wait to get the design so I can see what Romi has designed for us !!!

100% Tussah Silk in the color Dyeing Rose

I don’t think I let you all know about the second installment, which to me is simply stunning and I really need to knit this shawl very soon.  Meadowgold is a gorgeous triangular shawl with lots of wonderful lace.  This particular kit included a soft skein of yarn hand-dyed by A Verb For Keeping Warm in a blend of 80% superwash merino, 10% cashmere and 10% nylon, along with another beautiful pin designed by Romi Hill.

Colorway: The Hunt

I also joined Erica Jackofsky’s , a.k.a. Fiddle Knits, mystery KAL that starts this coming Thursday.   Last week I received my lovely skein of her very own hand-dyed yarn in Polka, a soft 100% superwash merino wool in the color Shadowfax.  I’ve never participated in a mystery KAL, so I’m very excited about this.  For more information, visit Erica’s Ravelry Group, the Fantasia Mystery Shawl KAL.

A lovely soft pale lavender gray!

I really need to get finished with my current WIPs, especially my Vodka Lemonade, but I’m very tempted to get started on at least one of these beautiful shawls!

Until next time, happy knitting, crocheting, spinning and crafting!

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