tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80892275951918213562024-03-17T23:04:00.829-04:00Sweet Bee BuzzingsBethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00170032696624433205noreply@blogger.comBlogger1014125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089227595191821356.post-11776932217871034772019-03-06T23:06:00.000-05:002019-03-06T23:06:56.700-05:00JoyfulHello!! to all you hangers-on to what seems to be a fading way of logging one's adventures. I still love reading blogs, but I'm quite aware of the hypocrisy of how little I write on my own anymore.<div>
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So how goes it? I'll be honest. The first two months of the year were a bit of a struggle for me for no good reason. I'm sure you're familiar--your head seems to be in a fog, you're going through motions, you're just not yourself. I was not fun to be around. I was mopey, I didn't care, I needed caffeine like I never have before just to make it through the work day. And then I happened upon a book.</div>
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<i>On the left is the paper cover, and the right is the actual book cover. Fun, right?</i></div>
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I used to be amaze balls at that--ordinary, little things making me happy. And at some point, that stopped. And I didn't even realize it had happened. But this book? I read the first chapter and was nodding along and exclaiming "Yes!!!!!!" in my head. I think I had too much...noise, so to speak. I felt like I shouldn't have things, that I should be a minimalist. I felt that as I'm forty it's not "proper" to have blue nail polish, or to get excited about things covered in glitter. </div>
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But you know what? I LIKE my quirky little collections of random things. They make me smile. So maybe Marie Kondo would give me a smack at how many things spark joy for me, but I don't care even a little bit. Can I have blue nails if I want? Yes, and with polka dots, too! And the glitter? I bought a new pink sparkly phone case that I keep turned over so I can see the glitter (as opposed to the little notification light). I even took this book with me to jury duty yesterday (which, as we all know, is the direct opposite of joy). I really feel like it's helping, and all it took was a small nudge from Yester-Bee saying "Hey, Future Self, wanna, hang out again?" But seriously, if you feel a little like you're in a rut, or that you've set up camp in the doldrums, give this book a look-see.</div>
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And just for fun here are a few pics--</div>
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<i>I call these my Gumps. And every time I put them on I think "Ruuuun, Forrest, ruuuuuuun!"</i></div>
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<i>I don't think this needs words. Thank you, Hobby Lobby.</i></div>
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<i>I needed a little bit of color at my desk at work, so I spent Sunday making pom-poms. I didn't stop at this here dozen...they're quite addictive once you get going.</i></div>
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<i>Just don't look super close at these embroidered necklaces, m'kay?</i></div>
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So the necklaces. I don't remember when I bought the kit, but I busted it out this weekend. And while I was stitching these, I kept thinking "Wow. One year ago I was in the hospital, too dizzy to open my eyes, with tingly hands and muscle weakness. And today...I'm just as not-great at embroidery as I was before all that happened." I remember making granny squares felt like a triumph, and I needed multiple naps like a toddler. And while I remember every second like it was yesterday, I still can't believe it's been a year. I was honestly fearful I wouldn't be able to return to work, make things, drive...you get the idea. And maybe all that led me away from myself, if that makes sense. </div>
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But thanks to a moment of serendipity involving a candy-colored book, I feel like I'm on my way back.</div>
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Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00170032696624433205noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089227595191821356.post-7314103396772614692019-01-30T11:52:00.000-05:002019-01-30T12:13:04.645-05:00Hat for Little Nephew Based on His Favorite Video GameIn my stash, I had a ball of practically-neon green yarn that I didn't use for a project and had no idea what I would ever use it for until Little Nephew (A-train) was talking about his favorite video game Minecraft. The color reminded me of those creeper thingees that lurk around (I know less about this game than I do about <a href="https://sweetbeebuzzings.blogspot.com/2019/01/hat-for-big-nephew-loosely-based-on-his.html" target="_blank">rugby</a>), so I thought I'd put those onto a hat. I couldn't find a pattern for exactly what I wanted, but I did find <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/creepers-all-around" target="_blank">this one</a> for the colorwork part (which is really all I needed).<br />
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I like the look and feel of a double-thick brim so I started off making that (using the same method I described in <a href="https://sweetbeebuzzings.blogspot.com/2019/01/hat-for-big-nephew-loosely-based-on-his.html" target="_blank">Big Nephew's hat</a>), and then incorporated the pattern chart a couple rows into the stockinette section. I reeeeeaallllly like how it turned out.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNQDLohn2x6wVqa5spMXrGeMFAqo3NsBkCEyEkjZNImOl7WjYq8wrqQM1UDHZtVBeV-luik5woM1SV7LB9sNaxEW-832hnKZ9wWhrzArAa2StRyspSVKVhzBoecD2ptA-E1qfpdq8bCeU/s1600/20190105_145018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNQDLohn2x6wVqa5spMXrGeMFAqo3NsBkCEyEkjZNImOl7WjYq8wrqQM1UDHZtVBeV-luik5woM1SV7LB9sNaxEW-832hnKZ9wWhrzArAa2StRyspSVKVhzBoecD2ptA-E1qfpdq8bCeU/s640/20190105_145018.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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There were only a few sections of long floats to trap, and it's only a nine row chart, so this section went quite quickly (and on 16-inch circulars it was easy to keep the colorwork at a good tension).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5iv94UpuPXWy40tIFvmQKL3iY3M6yG10uln5YgM6FkoNuYTiVr7346HXBKQf9I3tDbzb3QGTq9Sla16-9tIld0pVAcyfHzXuR_JxtnAgwn8ZXai6YuxlJp3p4hiRRceA5AsMahZqWU28/s1600/20190105_145030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5iv94UpuPXWy40tIFvmQKL3iY3M6yG10uln5YgM6FkoNuYTiVr7346HXBKQf9I3tDbzb3QGTq9Sla16-9tIld0pVAcyfHzXuR_JxtnAgwn8ZXai6YuxlJp3p4hiRRceA5AsMahZqWU28/s640/20190105_145030.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I did not like the look of the decreases in the pattern online, so I knitted even to where it looked right, and then just did some evenly spaced decreases.</div>
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And here's the whole hat--</div>
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He looooooooved his new hat, and said to me last week (in such a sincere manner I felt it in my heart...but everything he says is so sincere) "Aunt Bee, let me tell you. I would not be making it through this cold weather without this hat. It's nice and warm and fits perfect" (we had a wicked cold snap last week).</div>
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Following up on this, I got a phone call one night. "Aunt Bee. Could you please make me....gloves with the tops cut off...and this little flippy thing to make them mittens? And can you make them so they kind of match my hat?"</div>
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I found a simple enough pattern on <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/talk-to-the-paw-mitts" target="_blank">Ravelry</a> to base these on (I made my wrist ribbing longer instead of using stockinette, and didn't do the finishing work she did). I didn't think I had enough green left to get both mitts, so I went with black yarn (for these, what he further described as, "ninja mittens"). Oy. Let me tell you. I rarely (as in almost never until now) work with black yarn for anything beyond straight knitting for the same reason I hate sewing with black fabric--it's really tough on the ol' peepers. What should have been a few evenings of work took a good bit longer because working with black yarn in lower light is rough (at least for me). Plus I have this perfectionist streak in me so I frogged some and thought way too long on some parts. But, they ended up just how I hoped they would. </div>
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So here they are in what is apparently ninja form--</div>
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And here is one converted for comparison--</div>
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I needed to incorporate the little creeper guy from the hat somehow, so I duplicate stitched one onto the back of the mitten, so when you unbutton the flip top he appears--</div>
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As this was my first time making these there was definitely a learning curve here, and a few things I might change up (I'd make the ribbing at the top of the mitts longer, and make the flip top a row or two longer as well). But I'm largely pleased with them, and more importantly, A-train loved them. He said, as he gave me a hug, "You deserve this hug, Aunt Bee." I am fine with this as a payment method.</div>
Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00170032696624433205noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089227595191821356.post-89246010567135948982019-01-26T11:02:00.000-05:002019-01-29T10:19:43.178-05:00Hat for Big Nephew Loosely Based on His Team's LogoAfter knitting <a href="https://sweetbeebuzzings.blogspot.com/2018/12/intarsia-sweater-thing-that-tried-to.html" target="_blank">this sweater</a>, I had a TON of yarn left over (in everything but gray). And after knitting that sweater, I felt like knitting only small projects. I enjoy knitting hats, but there's only so many hats one person can have (I know, that's an arguable point, but as a person who generally does not wear hats it seems nonsensical to keep piling them up). For some reason, I rarely make things for my nephews. I think it's because they have that "growing boy" thing going on for so long I worry that they'll outgrow what I'm making before I finish. But hats? They stretch. A lot. So they'll last a while to make a few evenings of knitting worth the effort. Especially when the colors you have are somehow perfect for their interests.<br />
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First I'll show you the one for Big Nephew, my Z-man (who will be seventeen soon, and that just makes me feel so old I can't even say any more about that right now). He's a typical teenager, very few words, constantly losing his phone charger, and quite tall and handsome. He's been playing rugby for a few years now, and while I don't understand what's happening generally I know that the ball looks different from a football, and the huddle is a scrum (I think--feel free to correct me). His team has a web store, but no knitted hats available, so I made him one in the team's colors (because in worsted weight yarn I would not have had enough room to make a good-looking logo). So here's the team logo--<br />
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--and here's the hat.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ7U5ePaM_fQlAqp9wdQ5uNlBpU4DR-Xv9yKglr4lXdbDBHq77H4loMuvaCiJVfrVH-aea65MEFl53FhW5XfM9W4KAPvcWltkG4z3R0MII51Wek6GeTR8jEXonaY9oLrQMTbMA2Zd_Rb4/s1600/20190120_132506.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1574" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ7U5ePaM_fQlAqp9wdQ5uNlBpU4DR-Xv9yKglr4lXdbDBHq77H4loMuvaCiJVfrVH-aea65MEFl53FhW5XfM9W4KAPvcWltkG4z3R0MII51Wek6GeTR8jEXonaY9oLrQMTbMA2Zd_Rb4/s640/20190120_132506.jpg" width="628" /></a></div>
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I made it with a folded brim for comfort and warmth, and went for a small band of stripes so it would be a little more low-key. My original plan was to make the whole thing ribbed, and I don't remember right now why I decided against it when it came to the stripes...I'm going to say it would have something to do with the decreases lining up.<br />
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I didn't follow a pattern for this as it's the most basic of hats. Provisional cast on, knit the brim twice as long as you want it, then pick up the cast-on edge and do a three needle join (like a bind-off except you're not binding off). Knit the hat until it's as long as you want it (generally about seven inches), and then do some evenly placed decreases. Boom. Done. I do like the swirly look of individual leaning decreases instead of the straighter look of paired decreases.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimH1q0Q3Dho3soJjh5QYW-j311PaB5hnNBamKr1IemejsGy_VMbWCaY3yJ8VjuuXT4052eb_ZjOxCtrkGzuwpNI1oqu5HAqwp6gkiVmB5z285Jq4jjx7e3URY-Jy9h4otzKFKZGZcWH04/s1600/20190120_132552.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1554" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimH1q0Q3Dho3soJjh5QYW-j311PaB5hnNBamKr1IemejsGy_VMbWCaY3yJ8VjuuXT4052eb_ZjOxCtrkGzuwpNI1oqu5HAqwp6gkiVmB5z285Jq4jjx7e3URY-Jy9h4otzKFKZGZcWH04/s640/20190120_132552.jpg" width="620" /></a></div>
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<i>I really like how you can be staring at a thing and not see the fuzz on it until you go to post the picture. It's my favorite.</i></div>
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And just for obligatory good measure, here's the inside of the hat:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMbUFFE8k5eURFBkXLs5rlWmbb4JrUU9Pg76JNdG7qrtfDdCJVFV7y2-PqwI1Qn87nrZH4I4vQGjzfrwFPlz3Gj0bWWqyAassjo_Jdh4NbVrSobsqDwcbZSeyaZ8CvHSzaMXb8BYFwq3A/s1600/20190120_132612.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMbUFFE8k5eURFBkXLs5rlWmbb4JrUU9Pg76JNdG7qrtfDdCJVFV7y2-PqwI1Qn87nrZH4I4vQGjzfrwFPlz3Gj0bWWqyAassjo_Jdh4NbVrSobsqDwcbZSeyaZ8CvHSzaMXb8BYFwq3A/s640/20190120_132612.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I suppose it's reversible depending on the look you're after (and as he's a teenager I don't know if he'll care if it's inside-out or not....or even notice, really).<br />
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I'm going to do Little Nephew's in a separate post as he threw in a special request and you'll be here all day if I put it all in one post, and I'm sure you have better things to do (though I can't imagine what they could be).Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00170032696624433205noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089227595191821356.post-8773565230917795632018-12-26T14:51:00.000-05:002018-12-26T14:51:25.725-05:00Intarsia Sweater (The Thing That Tried to Kill Me)Um...hello? <tap tap> Is this thing on?<br />
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Isn't it funny how almost four months can go by without a post and you don't even notice it because time flies, and then one day it hits you that it's been ALMOST FOUR MONTHS since you last posted, and how does that happen and what have you been doing with yourself anyway? It's the first year I haven't posted anything Christmassy, or gone on and on and on about how much I love Christmas lights, or how I can't believe how big the nephews are, and so on and so forth. But I very recently gifted a sweater to someone, and thought "I must remember to blog about this" and then thought "Hey, I haven't done that for a while!" So here we are.<br />
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So this sweater. I feel like I've got my sea legs when it comes to stranded colorwork, but intarsia was still twisting my gut and causing a "Gah! NO!" reaction. But when someone says "Hey, is this a thing you can do?" and it's someone you care about, you say "Of course I can!" and then hide all the angst because where did this overconfidence come from? I made a few practice swatches, carefully selected my yarn for color, ease of caring for it, and suitability for color work, and then set to.<br />
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The sweater pattern was simple while having just enough detail to keep it interesting. I used the <a href="http://www.lionbrand.com/harvard-square-pullover.html" target="_blank">Harvard Square Pullover from Lion Brand patterns</a>, which has a great big stockinette front that was perfect for intarsiafying. I had my requested graphic--<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB_uXyyC7SpLI_kp6Gii2Plx5BtDgRSrip9Ib7t73yVNacQ6VYuL-OCKiVGaAHuuNzkEpyc1LoNN0nilWJfhMD29On3vn1jrUyPGNnEIathBomQ8akRWe8SPQh5jJng1gWz5h03AxK4Jg/s1600/Vault_Boy.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1090" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB_uXyyC7SpLI_kp6Gii2Plx5BtDgRSrip9Ib7t73yVNacQ6VYuL-OCKiVGaAHuuNzkEpyc1LoNN0nilWJfhMD29On3vn1jrUyPGNnEIathBomQ8akRWe8SPQh5jJng1gWz5h03AxK4Jg/s640/Vault_Boy.png" width="434" /></a></div>
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<i>This is Vault Tec guy or something like that from the Fallout video game</i></div>
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I used the Stitch Fiddle pattern-making site to get my chart (after carefully counting and figuring the size that would be best and all other sorts of mathy things that raised my blood pressure). And then I had other people cross their fingers (I couldn't cross mine--I had to knit) and got down to business. After a LOT of swearing and muttering of phrases like "I am going to burn this" and "No wonder there's a boyfriend sweater curse" I was as finished as I could be if I hoped to maintain my sanity.</div>
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Intarsia itself is not the absolute worst I found (once you get your yarn management sorted--I used those little plastic bobbins you can find in almost any craft store that carries knitting supplies). The issues I had came from inexperience and there are definitely things I would do differently next time (yes, I said next time, but not for a long time because this was enough for a while). For example, I'd go with a thinner yarn to get a lighter weight sweater, which would also allow me to use a MUCH more detailed chart that would give me a picture I'd be happier with. So then I wouldn't have to embroider a face in sock yarn so that it wouldn't scare small children.</div>
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I'd also look for a top-down pattern as I was very worried about the length of this (even though I measured like a lunatic) and I like the option of making something as long as you want.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbzlmsg6Q3r8K6Qhv8XGfyW7zZ4QxP070Iw4rwXeubQJh5HljD5qBdjvNYuRPfj0SoaXRuTjVFt0dMFT_fV4kjssd69A3zuybo-6I7ORmzNvrMVQJyQo3W9MfILReaZvXwuxed-Dd6IB8/s1600/20181221_115722.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1571" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbzlmsg6Q3r8K6Qhv8XGfyW7zZ4QxP070Iw4rwXeubQJh5HljD5qBdjvNYuRPfj0SoaXRuTjVFt0dMFT_fV4kjssd69A3zuybo-6I7ORmzNvrMVQJyQo3W9MfILReaZvXwuxed-Dd6IB8/s640/20181221_115722.jpg" width="628" /></a></div>
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I love that 'broken rib' stitch on the sleeves--it added some nice texture, and when I sewed everything together it came together really neat.</div>
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For the collar, I didn't want to leave the ribbing raw, or unfinished, as I personally find that scratchy. So I made it twice the size it was supposed to be, and then sewed it down for a nice soft edge.</div>
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I contemplated doing the graphic in duplicate stitch, but didn't want a heavy weight blob on the front center; in retrospect I'm glad I didn't as it would have looked too puffy. Besides, the inside looks kind of neat.</div>
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I probably overdid the weaving in of the ends, but as this was a wool/acrylic blend (I used Plymouth Encore) I wanted to make sure they were really in there). Better safe than apologizing for a sweater falling apart, amiright?</div>
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So that's that. I'm over my fear of intarsia, I've learned a LOT in the making of this sweater, and most important--it fits!</div>
Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00170032696624433205noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089227595191821356.post-9699385733348809572018-09-03T23:03:00.000-04:002018-09-03T23:03:11.266-04:00Fimmel HatWhile I do love simple, fast projects, when it comes to knitting I prefer a little oomph. Whether it's self-striping yarn or new techniques I've never tried, I like having something different to look forward to as I work. My knitting goal for the year (is that a normal thing to have? Do other people set those?) is to become...I'll call it functionally literate...at color-work. And the Fimmel Hat was a great project for this (as long as we ignore the strands of yarn that kept wanting to get involved with each other instead of minding their own business).<br />
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The <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/fimmel-hat" target="_blank">pattern</a> for this was available only if you bought the kit, and the shop has since shut down, so apologies for teasing you if you were interested (but if it makes you feel better I got the kit on sale). I believe the gold color was supposed to be more of a khaki color, but it still works.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglmZ-FqRH1Hlj7L53SwHXiAQLfFqaWfx8XUzTlZUTXXsmjCU5NWBc0WRP-ai0MnAutptTIHasjnzBPkjh2zB9AC5V7O4pPQ8ABnz3l3zI3a1fEXTLRxADA9uUl9hKAwo_mJ2szmogk1LE/s1600/DSCN2756.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglmZ-FqRH1Hlj7L53SwHXiAQLfFqaWfx8XUzTlZUTXXsmjCU5NWBc0WRP-ai0MnAutptTIHasjnzBPkjh2zB9AC5V7O4pPQ8ABnz3l3zI3a1fEXTLRxADA9uUl9hKAwo_mJ2szmogk1LE/s640/DSCN2756.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The yarn is 100% alpaca, which was a new fiber to me. I've always read that alpaca loosens a bit and can stretch way out, but this hat is small enough of a project that it wasn't an issue (though I certainly wouldn't make a sweater out of straight alpaca). Anyway, I like the little bit of haze the fiber gives.<br />
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I'm always in awe of pattern designers who are geniuses about decreases and increases, especially when color-work is involved. I mean....how do they DO that? Look at the crown of this hat (and ignore where I'm pretty sure I messed up a teeny bit, because you still get the idea)--<br />
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Now with stranded knitting, the most important thing to remember is to not pull those floats too tight or everything goes kerplooey. I was so focused on this that as I did the decreases and knit the top, I forgot that the hat would be cinched shut, and that those floats <i>could</i> be shorter. So I had to do some fancy fudge work to finish it off (but you can't tell because who turns a hat inside out and looks at the bind-off?).<br />
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As I knit more things like this, I realize that one of my favorite things to do is to turn it inside out and look at the floats (in a completely normal and non-gloaty sort of way).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNfjQ-tvBNi1bLNFGJJY_omnH4yCvFYtq4xgVWznpXDbgfRNSCjuGQtfhPPTMaVvMQcZiyk85G7QcgYwQs_QTOkDifjsW3d70WM8RNEAPZy-o-FMshmNMdYDkuJ6rq2dNL4TZCeLfsFmk/s1600/DSCN2758.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNfjQ-tvBNi1bLNFGJJY_omnH4yCvFYtq4xgVWznpXDbgfRNSCjuGQtfhPPTMaVvMQcZiyk85G7QcgYwQs_QTOkDifjsW3d70WM8RNEAPZy-o-FMshmNMdYDkuJ6rq2dNL4TZCeLfsFmk/s640/DSCN2758.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I neglected to take a photo with this on, I'm just now realizing, but it fits just right. The looseness of the alpaca is nice as it keeps the hat from being smashed on my head and is something I can wear without my hair getting <i>that</i> look about it, but it's not so loose that it falls off.<br />
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The pattern also came with a design for wristers, but I haven't attempted those yet. There were a lot of colors in this (though no more than two in any row), but they did love to twist and twine, and I very nearly chucked the leftovers in a rage due to far too many detangling sessions.Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00170032696624433205noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089227595191821356.post-36134559556898372912018-08-21T21:08:00.000-04:002018-08-21T21:11:35.999-04:00Broken Waves ShawlWhen I went on a <a href="https://sweetbeebuzzings.blogspot.com/2017/10/road-trip-woodstock-vermont.html" target="_blank">knitting retreat</a> back in October, I bought some beautifully squishy yarn. Due to other projects, and <a href="https://sweetbeebuzzings.blogspot.com/2018/03/sometimes.html" target="_blank">certain unforeseen circumstances</a>, it took me a really long time to cast it on for the pattern I had bought to go with it. But now it is finished, and blocked, and the first day of appropriate weather I'm wrapping myself in this and strutting around.<br />
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Disclaimer: this color was nearly impossible to photograph accurately.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHxvfWTJ2xiqk6tK-a96L829ozs09b9pBmqfnwqVK4rjwzOhEu888aOziU1hn9BwOLSzSN7sr_Iu_cS_X_PyVlFeoDjwPIXnhKjNgiaYKaHLOIn4mo1md0l5GSxk01L7j0wp1l-YGfDe4/s1600/DSCN2746.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1528" data-original-width="920" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHxvfWTJ2xiqk6tK-a96L829ozs09b9pBmqfnwqVK4rjwzOhEu888aOziU1hn9BwOLSzSN7sr_Iu_cS_X_PyVlFeoDjwPIXnhKjNgiaYKaHLOIn4mo1md0l5GSxk01L7j0wp1l-YGfDe4/s640/DSCN2746.JPG" width="384" /></a></div>
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The pattern is called 'Broken Waves.' I bought a paper pattern, but it's available on <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/broken-waves-shawl" target="_blank">Ravelry</a> as well. It's a looooooong triangular shawl, predominantly stitched in garter stitch, with a cabled and ribbed border.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6xdDlk5ts-bPCe4fTZG8RFZVc12z0TYOioGhJIjcuJkQzyfvnTJLmtStKt8dSqkJXjgQtUsYmBQSTP2k6GMThIGeuRdzvmucS9RrUagdLy7DQEGXJdGkuq0L8uBwl62dEJk-Pj3lf6TM/s1600/DSCN2747.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6xdDlk5ts-bPCe4fTZG8RFZVc12z0TYOioGhJIjcuJkQzyfvnTJLmtStKt8dSqkJXjgQtUsYmBQSTP2k6GMThIGeuRdzvmucS9RrUagdLy7DQEGXJdGkuq0L8uBwl62dEJk-Pj3lf6TM/s640/DSCN2747.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>This is probably the closest approximation of the true color.</i></div>
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The shawl is knit as a long triangle (almost like half of a diamond), and then stitches picked up along the edge. Then these picked up stitches are knit, one at a time, as you go back and forth across the border. The cabling is supposed to stop at the point, but I have issues, and I knew that the lack of symmetry would bother me. So I just kept going with it.</div>
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The yarn is an absolutely luxurious sport weight merino. The shop had the exact yardage I needed, and even though this color is no stranger to my shawl collection I couldn't resist. Especially when I saw the name of it--</div>
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Who can resist a little Alice in Wonderland, especially when you're eternally twelve years old? I'd like to say this shawl was a total pleasure to knit, but it wasn't, until I made a minor change. I say a minor change, but I ended up knitting the body of this shawl twice. As the pattern was written, increases were done on the very edge of the shawl. When it came time to pick up the stitches it made for a very messy edge. And I just couldn't have that. So I started over, but did the increase as a kfb, and did it one stitch in from the edge. This made everything much neater. I also omitted the yarn overs because I didn't like how that looked, either. BUT, once I got going with those changes, this was fun to knit. </div>
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Now back to stitching my sweater. Because while it's steaming outside, one doesn't wait until sweater weather arrives to knit a sweater, amiright?</div>
Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00170032696624433205noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089227595191821356.post-41996753125490410592018-08-01T21:15:00.000-04:002018-08-01T21:15:00.172-04:00Hydrangea WreathI made this wreath a while ago, and every time I walk by it I think "Yep, must share that" but I always forget. But today I break that streak.<div>
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Last year I bought a kit for a shawl, but didn't really love it, so I used the one set of yarn for <a href="https://sweetbeebuzzings.blogspot.com/2017/12/pink-and-gold-things.html" target="_blank">this blanket</a>, and then used the remainder to make this wreath, as when I looked at the colors I could think of one thing and one thing only. Hydrangeas.</div>
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I found a pattern online (I <i>think</i> it was <a href="http://attic24.typepad.com/weblog/2017/05/yarny-hydrangea-flowers.html" target="_blank">this one</a>, but it was a while ago so I'm not entirely sure), and just stitched and stitched and stitched until I ran out of yarn (which is <a href="http://www.scheepjes.com/en/yarn/catona-25-gram-749/" target="_blank">Scheepjes Catona</a>, by the way), and was left with a giant pile of hydrangea petals.</div>
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I found a styrofoam wreath and wrapped it the yarn that wasn't flower colored. It wasn't that much fun, let's be honest here.</div>
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Once the wreath was wrapped, I placed the flowers (and did it again, and again, and then again, because I just couldn't decide) and then finally pinned them down. Then I realized the pins were mighty short, so I added hot glue for extra security.</div>
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I ran out of steam, and just did not feel like making leaves for green, so I bought this floral...thing...and then cut that apart and glued pieces here and there.</div>
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Not my favorite thing ever, but it's definitely reminiscent of hydrangeas, which is what I was going for, so it's a win, right? I mean...they can't all be <a href="https://sweetbeebuzzings.blogspot.com/2018/04/gnome-is-where-heart-is.html" target="_blank">gnome wreaths</a>, can they?</div>
Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00170032696624433205noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089227595191821356.post-78071260892250459252018-07-08T21:24:00.000-04:002018-07-08T21:24:48.349-04:00Floral Fossil WorkshopMy youngest sister follows a butt ton (an actual measurement, mind you) of local artists on Instagram. She is very much a fan of the various local arts that are trying their darndest to regain a foothold in Philadelphia (at one time Philly was huge in fashion and textile manufacturing, as well as many other things, but those industries left some time ago). At some point, she happened across local artist <a href="http://www.ronnicole.com/" target="_blank">Ron Nicole</a>, and began...I'll call it stalking...her social media pages for announcements of workshops. When she saw one, she asked if I'd be interested. I love trying new things, even if I might only do it once, so we both jumped to sign up.<br />
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The workshop was yesterday down in the City at the <a href="https://www.artstarphilly.com/" target="_blank">Art Star Gallery and Boutique</a>. We had a blasty blast, and left with finished pieces and a lot of new knowledge (and the encouragement to play and experiment and try new things). I tried to take enough photos to show you the technique, and also to remind myself in case I do want to do this again.<br />
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Let's start with the obligatory materials shot:<br />
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We've got clay, a scraper, the adjustable part of an embroidery hoop, tweezers, a twisted wire hanger, stirring sticks, and a dust mask.<br />
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First you roll out the clay until it's a little bigger than your hoop and trim off some of the excess.<br />
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Then you select flowers. This involves a lot of trial and error, and the stiffer the flower the better (or so we were told). She had pre-selected what would work best, so we knew we'd be getting decent impressions (but also told us what doesn't work well at all in case we left with any bright ideas).<br />
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Laying out the flowers is the trickiest part. It was taking me forever, so I just decided to go for it and whatever happened would be fine.<br />
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The part I had difficulty with is that you have to visualize this in reverse. It made my brain hurt trying to do this, and I could see me taking <i>hours</i> on this part if I had limitless time. Once you have your arrangement somewhat figured out, you push them down into the clay. You have to smush them in there good, but at the same time not too hard so you don't go all the way through. A rolling pin helps a little bit. Looking at this now, I can see where it's a little messy looking in certain parts (but again--limited time had me cutting corners).<br />
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Once you've done a jolly good smash, you just pull all the flowers back out. They're covered in clay, but actually bounce back much more than you'd ever think.<br />
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Pulling them out was a little tense, as I was just absolutely positive I was going to mess things up spectacularly. But you just remove the flowers, and then use tweezers to pull out any of the larger bits that are being stubborn. Some bits were so small it might have ruined the mold to remove them all, so I just left them, hoping for a pop of color in the finished piece.<br />
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Then, you mix up your plaster and water, let it sit for a couple minutes, and then pour it into the hoop. She had measured things so precisely that it filled the hoop practically perfectly.<br />
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Then we had donuts and chatted for about an hour while this set. When it was cold to the touch, we peeled off the mold and had the most satisfying reveal ever.<br />
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Then you unscrew the hoop, neaten up the edges a bit, and voila!<br />
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I can certainly see how you need a few tries to work out the kinks. I'd be more mindful of the stems, and you can see where the little bits that didn't want to be removed from the clay decided to scatter themselves around the plaster cast. But the level of detail is amazing.<br />
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It's going to take about a week for this to fully set, and then I have to figure out where I'm going to hang it. I had a lot of fun doing this, and I learned a lot. It's a fairly easy thing to do, but you can certainly see how there's a bit of a learning curve with the finer details.<br />
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If you're interested in seeing some really beautiful pieces, check out her website <a href="http://www.ronnicole.com/" target="_blank">here</a>.Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00170032696624433205noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089227595191821356.post-68482153103121787992018-06-26T21:22:00.000-04:002018-06-26T21:22:01.552-04:00Mandala HoopWell. Long time no...write. It's funny how it just gets away from you. I've been working on the same shawl for a bazillion and seven years (I didn't like how it turned out following the pattern instructions, so I frogged the whole thing and redid it my way). I've been devouring books for some reason (I love to read anyway, but have been doing more and more of it lately). And I finally managed to get my hands on the object of my Barnes and Noble stalking.<br />
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I used to have a <i>Mollie Makes </i>subscription, but ended it a while ago as it ended up seeming like a waste of money. However, I follow them on Instagram, and I decide if I want to buy the issue based on the free kit (very mature, I know). BUT I fell in love with the way <a href="https://sweetbeebuzzings.blogspot.com/2018/05/catching-up-on-things.html" target="_blank">this hoop</a> turned out, so I figured when they put out the hoop kits I'll buy those issues. Of course, when they show the kit and the issue is on sale are not always synced up, and I made more than a handful of trips to the store, and then stormed out when the magazine section did not fulfill my needs.<br />
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Last week, they finally had the issue I was after, and I skipped out of the store like a happy kid with a bag full of candy. It was a super quick thing to stitch, and I adore the colors, but the energy expended stalking this item was probably overkill.<br />
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The yarn was a shimmery (probably mercerized) cotton, and the hoop is maybe four inches across? But those colors!!!!!!! This is what the hoop looks like on the right side. I don't know if I made it too small or stitched it on too tight or if the final round is supposed to be laying more on the outside of the hoop, but I really don't care.<br />
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And that's the back side. Not much different at all, but something has to be the back.<br />
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Isn't that hot pink center color absolutely divine???????? I think I was able to stitch this in an evening. I didn't have to rip anything out. I didn't have to curse at anything. It just flowed. It's a mandala, so I think that's how it's supposed to happen anyway.<br />
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Not very interesting, I know. But have I mentioned the shawl? That is sincerely all I've been working on. I can't wait until it's finished, because while I love the yarn I'm also tired of it right now. Especially since I have to tuck it away until it's chilly enough to wear it. BUT. Hopefully it'll be done soon. I can't wait to show you the border--I've never done this technique before so I'm quite pleased with how it's turned out (i.e. just like it was supposed to).<br />
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Toodles for now!Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00170032696624433205noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089227595191821356.post-4426333056164001152018-05-29T20:59:00.000-04:002018-05-29T20:59:40.606-04:00Catching Up on ThingsBack in...maybe January...ish...I bought an issue of Mollie Makes that came with a really cute embroidery kit. It was supposed to be for Valentine's Day, but I didn't get to it. And then when I had big plans to do it, it had to wait a little longer. A couple weeks ago, I spent a Saturday afternoon happily stitching and drinking tea so I could cross one more thing off of my to-do list. This wee little bit of embroidery made me quite happy (mostly, because after a million years, I FINally mastered the French knot).<br />
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I had a stinker of a time getting the pre-printed fabric into the hoop. It's still not in there correctly, but I was thiiiiiiis close to losing my temper with it, so it's good enough. But isn't that a delightful freebie?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp5DuFaOAXg6_qqCHphyldgh1eV7LCYuxqhg8taJOeLYOipkGwaGe7lQWW4hTULpZ07THwwhavRirAgzoB9fV25VVlfGJMk4buQSYblj54DFkJIhmNHllxxI52fXK0nyRiB0I3slq7dDk/s1600/DSCN2728.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp5DuFaOAXg6_qqCHphyldgh1eV7LCYuxqhg8taJOeLYOipkGwaGe7lQWW4hTULpZ07THwwhavRirAgzoB9fV25VVlfGJMk4buQSYblj54DFkJIhmNHllxxI52fXK0nyRiB0I3slq7dDk/s640/DSCN2728.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I don't have much experience with embroidery, and sometimes I curse too much while I'm stitching, but I do so enjoy it. Especially all of those beautifully colored threads.<br />
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The great thing about kits is that you generally get just enough so you don't have oodles of leftover materials. But the thing about kits is that you get just enough. There wasn't much fabric on the back to gather it in with some simple stitches and hide it behind the hoop, so I cut a piece of lightweight cardboard and shoved it in there nice and tight.<br />
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And here is another detail shot, because those are my favorite.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicz_aipO6okSqHZtRn-J7HSIF_GH5XxVMkO1oDU8GZ84LqPLqcmp1irL3C2pQmpZzMX4m8viCWbrqWC3pKeWezlxprG_-nicyHIIdxB5MkyA2atjVHyxrAOoVWvA19t2_Z1WTPiJWLXVg/s1600/DSCN2732.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicz_aipO6okSqHZtRn-J7HSIF_GH5XxVMkO1oDU8GZ84LqPLqcmp1irL3C2pQmpZzMX4m8viCWbrqWC3pKeWezlxprG_-nicyHIIdxB5MkyA2atjVHyxrAOoVWvA19t2_Z1WTPiJWLXVg/s640/DSCN2732.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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In other news, I saw the specialist again last week. He's still inclined to think this is <i>not</i> MS. I see him again in September, have another MRI in November, and at that point he'll be ready to make a diagnosis (some fancy talk about blood-brain barriers, contrast uptake, and anti-inflammatory medication). He's leaning towards an ever-present vascular abnormality that became inflamed (perhaps due to a virus--remember my vertigo?) and is in the absolute perfect spot to cause the symptoms I had (and will probably never bother me again). I'm keeping it in my brain that this is indeed MS so I don't have to wrap my brain around it again, but I've got all my fingers and toes crossed that in a few months he'll say "Nope. Now leave." And then I shall skip out the door with a smile on my face, and probably buy myself some ice cream.Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00170032696624433205noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089227595191821356.post-53180074747982659942018-05-16T22:47:00.000-04:002018-05-16T22:47:13.423-04:00Gray Matter--A Ta-Dah PostWhen I first got home from the hospital <a href="http://sweetbeebuzzings.blogspot.com/2018/03/sometimes.html" target="_blank">a couple months ago</a>, there was a lot of naps and a ton of questionable TV show viewing. It wasn't pretty. Reading was uncomfortable, and I couldn't fathom picking up <a href="http://sweetbeebuzzings.blogspot.com/2018/04/modern-icelandic-sweater.html" target="_blank">my sweater</a> and continuing with the colorwork. My mom said "Is there something small you could work on? Just so you don't go crazy?" And then I remembered the drawer full of leftover Stylecraft DK from <a href="http://sweetbeebuzzings.blogspot.com/2015/10/mixed-stripe-blanket.html" target="_blank">this blanket</a>. You can't get much smaller than a granny square, and you can't get much simpler than a single-color granny square.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiQjabCCTQY_P35U3_26987wz1tVU4rQ9te9PAp3FbRQIABhmVnpaPadrvdVCad8ozcLWvasGPWy8smwMIe5rRjeyVAGQza08LX9PN5KlUUCHhtvJ5zZk_hpEARs3893fS1gmb0lPk_ZU/s1600/DSCN2658.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1376" height="558" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiQjabCCTQY_P35U3_26987wz1tVU4rQ9te9PAp3FbRQIABhmVnpaPadrvdVCad8ozcLWvasGPWy8smwMIe5rRjeyVAGQza08LX9PN5KlUUCHhtvJ5zZk_hpEARs3893fS1gmb0lPk_ZU/s640/DSCN2658.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The first dozen or so felt like a triumph, and I was quite proud of myself. I don't know if it was psychosomatic, but it felt difficult, like I was just learning. But my hands quickly remembered what they were supposed to be doing, and I had 130 squares in not much time.<br />
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From the outset, I knew I wanted to break up the squares with a grayish-brownish-somewhere-in-betweenish color, and Stylecraft 'Parchment' fit the bill. I may have bought entirely too much, but I am thinking I can get a sweater out of what's left (I don't know how much I thought I'd need).<br />
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Anyhoodle--here's the finished product.<br />
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My plan was to use as many leftovers as I could, and I obviously had more of some colors than others, but I love the outcome. The extra pink and yellow make it brighter, that's for sure. And the connecting color really makes it all pop nicely.<br />
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I decided to name this Gray Matter for a few reasons. First, I've had a lot of pictures of my brain taken recently. Sometimes, brain pictures have a lot of colors to them. Second, while most of the blocks are ordinary and plain, in my efforts to use all the yarn some colors were combined in interesting ways. Just like--most of my brain is totally normal (I know my mom just snorted and thought 'Child, you were never normal'), but there's this little spot that <i>could </i>be something, but <i>might</i> not.<br />
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Sometimes I feel perfectly myself--chipper, and just fine, and perfectly balanced (I consider red and pink my 'me' colors).<br />
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Sometimes I feel just slightly....off.<br />
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Sometimes? I nick a little something when I do my injection. And I blot it with an alcohol swab. (After yelling "We've got a bleeder!" for comedic effect).<br />
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Most of the time, I feel great. And lucky. And grateful.<br />
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But, even though I've had all my tests and scans, I still don't know what's up for sure until I see the neurologist. In one month. One very long month (although my mom is going much more crazy than I am). It's all a big gray area right now. Just like the gray (or is it tan? see? that's a gray area too) that holds together these flashes of color.<br />
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My favorite part of this blanket? The border.<br />
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It's got a delightful ruffle to it that somehow doesn't overpower the rest of the blanket.<br />
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It was quite simple. I used <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/joining-as-you-go-without-cutting-the-thread" target="_blank">this join-as-you-go method</a> to connect all of the squares. I then did a round of single crochet, then a round of double crochet (putting five stitches in each corner stitch). For the next round I did (double crochet, chain one) in each stitch around, giving things a slight wave. Then I went whole hog, and did three double crochets in every stitch all the way around.<br />
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Considering my little bit of a theme here, this made me think of the convolutions in the structure of our brains. My 'therapy blanket' was quickly becoming an 'art blanket.'<br />
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It's simple granny squares, with the most neutral of colors holding it all together. But that little detail of the ruffled edge makes me smile every time I see it draped across the back of the love seat.<br />
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I didn't think I'd be so pleased with this, but I am. Out of all of the blankets I've made, this might be my favorite (but don't tell the others--they each think I like them best).<br />
Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00170032696624433205noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089227595191821356.post-60992327467406115112018-05-13T13:43:00.002-04:002018-05-13T13:43:25.572-04:00Giveaway WinnerHappy Mother's Day, to all of you moms in the States (and elsewhere. Because why not? Moms don't get enough credit as it is).<br />
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I've got the winner of the yarn giveaway to announce. There weren't many entries in this one, but someone is going to get some delightfully squishy mail. So, without further ado...<br />
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I always dislike being first in a giveaway because I think there's no way I'll ever be randomly chosen (though if something is random it shouldn't matter--I understand this, but my instinct disagrees with this logic. This is why I don't gamble).</div>
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So, number one. That would be........</div>
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Congrats, Kris, you lucky duck! This is some seriously delightful stuff. I'm sending you a separate email to get your address so I can ship you this bundle of beautiful.</div>
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Have a great day, everyone!</div>
Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00170032696624433205noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089227595191821356.post-48583927339181834712018-05-03T19:15:00.000-04:002018-05-13T13:43:53.851-04:00Want Some Yarn?Despite my best efforts, I have acquired a bit of a yarn stash. I keep trying not to add to it, but I'm only a knitting human, and things happen. And when things happen I like to give things away. So...want some yarn?<br />
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When I was at my knitting retreat in October, I came by a fair amount of yarn. Some of it is in weights I never use as it doesn't feel...right...in my hands. So instead of hoarding some yummy things for which "some day" will never come, I'd rather ship them to a good home.<br />
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So here's what I have for one of you.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHGGdp3f8uAToFFm9OQDElpEvcoFRkBf6bv7zb73QAnNjtCN8isOhlGhpm-RFOkJ8EO1Ga_1uSLxKQkxDqREk3fmNw84-Wwkdd8HtzwPgVwjCC-8DENdpne1rWOOry2_WU3PMkOx8U9N0/s1600/20180429_161853_resized.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHGGdp3f8uAToFFm9OQDElpEvcoFRkBf6bv7zb73QAnNjtCN8isOhlGhpm-RFOkJ8EO1Ga_1uSLxKQkxDqREk3fmNw84-Wwkdd8HtzwPgVwjCC-8DENdpne1rWOOry2_WU3PMkOx8U9N0/s640/20180429_161853_resized.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Two skeins of Dragonfly Fibers Squishy Lace in Cognac. Lots of yardage here!<br />
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These were part of a kit, so I've also got the magazine with a pattern for this yarn in it to send along to you.<br />
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But wait! There's more!<br />
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I've also got three skeins of Plymouth Yarns Quarry in Hematite (on the left) and Moonstone. This is a nice, chunky yarn that looks like it would felt beautifully.<br />
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So if you'd like some fun mail, drop me a comment below, and I'll randomly pick a winner. Due to the costs of shipping, I'm sorry I can only offer this up to those in the United States. I'll leave this open through Saturday, May 12th at 11:59 pm ET and choose a winner shortly thereafter.<br />
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Good luck!!Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00170032696624433205noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089227595191821356.post-47986448558717632302018-04-22T22:20:00.001-04:002018-04-22T22:20:28.384-04:00Gnome is Where the Heart IsIt's not something I bring up in casual conversation, but...I love gnomes. Their little tummies, their pointy hats, their short stature that enables them to nap under flowers and toadstools. If left to my own devices, I'd be that crazy person with no visible lawn because the gnomes would be all over it. All. Over. It. A few months ago I saw a kit for crocheting a little gnome and some toadstools. Add to cart, complete purchase, boom. Then 'the event' happened, and the kit had to be patient. About two weeks ago, give or take, I decided it had waited long enough. <div>
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Now, truth be told, as I was hooking I was also thinking "Just what in the h-e-double am I going to do with a little crocheted gnome?" And so my brain went where it always goes--I either string it all together and make a garland of some sort, or I plonk it all on a wreath. Immediately a wreath image appeared in my brain, and I worked at a feverish pace towards that end. And last night, because I know how to party on a Saturday night, I put it all together. Wanna see?</div>
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Isn't he cuuuuuuuute?</div>
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Look at his face with his button noise and pink cheeks (and eyes that I swear are on straight).</div>
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And his little jingle bell on his hat! I think that might be my favorite detail of the whole shebang.</div>
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The kit was from <i>Little Box of Crochet</i> and came with the perfect amount of yarn and everything else needed to make this little guy (including the stuffing and a hook), There were a lot of little pieces to stitch up separately and assemble, so this was not as quick as it looked like it should be.</div>
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I found the wreath at Joann's. I was trying to think of how I was going to get a mossy look; I had a styrofoam wreath and a bag of moss in my hand when I saw this one. All mossy and bumpy and straight out of a little fairy tale thicket. It even came complete with little patches of dirt.</div>
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After finishing the gnome and toadstools (and mastering French knots) I whipped up some little flowers. I had a kit I bought last year and never used because I would never use the project (mug cozies), but the yarn was in vibrant, pretty colors and just right for this. I dug through my button jar for just the right touch for the flowers that needed a center.</div>
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To assemble, I fussed with the flowers until I liked how they looked, and hot glued them in place. The toadstools and the gnome were a bit harder. I didn't want to glue those in place as if the wreath starts to look worse for wear I don't mind losing a few flowers to the trash. BUT there's no way I'd be okay tossing the gnome and the toadstools. So I rigged up a little system only visible from the back.</div>
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I tied them to tongue depressors, and then glued those to the back of the wreath. You can't see them at all (those white splotches are where I had to remove them the first time because I just went for it instead of doing the logical thing and checking their placement), and if need be I can untie them with no issue.</div>
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OK wait, my favorite detail might be the little yarn shoelaces.</div>
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And if you're wondering....his name is Zeke. Short for Ezekiel. Ezekiel Walter Dominelli. What, a gnome can't be Italian?*</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">*OK, historically speaking in a cultural sense... probably not. </span></div>
Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00170032696624433205noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089227595191821356.post-92137874875304115402018-04-18T21:14:00.000-04:002018-04-18T21:14:29.965-04:00Modern Icelandic SweaterIf this...I'll call it spring...weather continues I just may get to wear my new wool sweater after all. I cast on this bad boy on Superbowl Sunday, and worked on it pretty regularly until 'the event.' It was sidelined for a few weeks, and then took a few more to finish.<br />
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I've never done corrugated ribbing before, so that was fun to do. It doesn't crimp up like a regular rib stitch will, but it still nice and stretchy.<br />
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The ribbing was a nice intro to the color work section. It's not difficult to carry floats for two stitches, so this was a nice, gentle ease-you-into-it sort of thing. Then it was miles and miles of gray stockinette.<br />
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I ended up switching up the yoke section a bit. See those gray diamonds? They're supposed to be light green. I had a mild panic attack at the thought of knitting with three colors in a single row, so I figured I'd stick to two colors and then go back and duplicate stitch over the gray. THEN I decided that further along the floats weren't crazy long so I'd knit with three colors (even though floats weren't my concern but three stinkin' colors). It took me a really. long. time to do that section. THEN I had to go back and duplicate stitch the bottom of the diamonds all around the sweater because I apparently decided to make this in the least efficient way possible.<br />
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It actually wasn't a terrible task. The inside doesn't look as fun in that section as it should, though.<br />
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After I did the first section of duplicate stitching, I decided I liked it as is and didn't fill in the other squares. I kept going back and forth, forth and back, trying to picture it with and without. So I went without. The great part about that is that if I decide I want that section filled in I can simply go back and stitch it in. But this way I like that the snowflakes (though traditionally that motif is an eight-pointed rose) are more obvious as snowflakes.<br />
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The neckband is a simple ribbing that's stitched for twice as many rounds as the finished band will be. You then go back and loosely tack it down on the inside for a nice, finished look.<br />
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I was nervous about this as it would be so me to make a sweater that fits, and then sew the neckline too tight or, better yet, closed. But after every few stitches I gave it a tug to keep the tension just right, and it worked. I will do this on every neckband where I can as the finish is so nice and neat.<br />
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I took 473 pictures (it felt like it, anyway) of me in this sweater, and got maybe two that aren't insanely blurry (I'm especially pleased with the shot of just the ceiling). HOW do people take good selfies, time and time again? If I'm in a pic where I look HUMAN I'm happy. So, just so you can see the fit, here you go--<br />
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I'm not sure if I wish I had made the next size up or not. It fits super perfect, but my preference is usually for a slightly looser fit.<br />
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Oh, almost forgot to mention, the pattern is Modern Icelandic by Lars Rains. It's in the winter 2017/18 issue of Vogue Knitting. You can see more information <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/07-modern-icelandic" target="_blank">here on Ravelry</a>. I was originally going to do this in the same colors, as I gasped when I saw the photo, but decided to switch it up. I used Knit Picks Wool of the Andes worsted in Spruce, Tranquil, and Lake Ice Heather. It's been soaked in wool wash and wet blocked.<br />
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This was maybe not the best choice for my first stranded sweater as far as difficulty goes, but I'm happy with it. My floats are good, the tension is even, and it fits. So now I can go tuck it in a drawer for months. Yaaaay.Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00170032696624433205noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089227595191821356.post-13354425904631382392018-04-11T22:27:00.002-04:002018-04-11T22:31:43.744-04:00"I Need You to Be More Discerning"That's something my youngest sister has said to be a LOT in recent months (or something similar). I cannot deny that she has good reason.<br />
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A couple of months ago I went on a handful of dates with a guy who started off normal enough, and then took a hard left down Crazy Lane (which, if that was a real street, I'd have to live there just because). "When you're out with your friends, I'm going to need you to check in with me regularly." No. Or, "I need you to text me right away when I text you." Not at 3 in the morning, pal. And finally, "I love you." You don't tell the girl who doesn't like to be HUGGED that you LOVE her after TWO weeks. And that's the tippy top of the tip of the iceberg. My sister said "I'm going to need you to let me screen these people."<br />
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Reason two. Not long ago, I made a bagel with cream cheese. It tasted fine. I did not get sick or have any ill effects. A few days later, my sister said "Is this cream cheese ok?" My mother looked and gave that "Eh, maybe yes maybe no face." (Don't judge--you know you've got a science experiment in your fridge, too). I said "I ate that the other day and it was fine." Sister said "I'm pretty sure it's GRAY." (It wasn't). So I repeated myself. She threw it away and said "I'm going to need you to not eat cheese of a questionable age."<br />
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And reason three. A few months ago we had a girls' day and went to tea. Afterwards we went to this (quite large) cute antique shop that we had never noticed before. If I had space for such stuff I could have dropped a small fortune there. As such, I bought a book for my uncle, and a beaded basket. It looked really cute sitting on the shelf, with the lights hitting it just so. I imagined someone sitting there, stringing beads and following the directions that came in (what was probably) a kit. I carried it around quite proudly, not knowing what I would ever use it for but needing it just the same.<br />
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When we got home, I put it in some warm soapy water to try and brighten it up a little bit. I left it on the windowsill to dry. It looked pretty in the sun.<br />
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My sister hadn't seen it yet. But when she saw it the next morning she said "What is that?" but inserted an expletive or two. Then--"That's hideous."<br />
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I argued on its behalf. I said "But it's pink and red!" And "It's safety pins!!!" And "Doesn't it remind you of that teeny beaded lampshade Grandma has on that little electric candle in her bathroom?"<br />
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I'll be honest. I was less than enamored with it. The lighting in the shop must have been fantastic, because it was not as cute anymore. I told her "Well, I had second thoughts about it this morning....?" and she said "The time for second thoughts was in the store when you picked it up!"<br />
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Then she threw down "I'm going to need you to be more discerning. Between guys, cheese, and...this...I'm just going to need you to make better choices." She's right. So right. In that way that only sisters can be.<br />
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But now I have to keep it until she forgets it exists. I can't just admit that I don't know what came over me. It's not even functional! But it IS pink and red...<br />
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**Note: I wish she would go to the hospital and tell that neurologist that HE needs to be more discerning, because now I've got TWO doctors of the opinion that this might not be MS. I get more tests on Friday, and hopefully they fill in enough of the picture so I can know for pretty sure what's going on.<br />
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And also: I finished my sweater. And it seems to fit. And it's going to be really warm this weekend, but I'll try to take some photos for you. But it's pure wool. So no promises.Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00170032696624433205noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089227595191821356.post-2145797352708074712018-03-31T16:06:00.000-04:002018-03-31T16:06:13.012-04:00Popping in to say hello!Hello, you wonderful people! I want to send you all a giant hug and a great big thank you for the comments and emails that resulted from my <a href="http://sweetbeebuzzings.blogspot.com/2018/03/sometimes.html" target="_blank">last post</a>. They truly made me feel good, and I've gone back and read them a few times to boost my mood. So--thank you!<br />
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I received so many beautiful flowers from friends and family that it looked like a florist's shop in the living room for a little while. I absolutely adore flowers, so they were an instant pick-me-up. Every color you can imagine was represented!<br />
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I often hear people say things like "Don't send me flowers! They're only going to die!" Which is perhaps one of the most absurd and depressing things I've ever heard someone say. Give me flowers over jewelry any day (and if I'm being honest, give me cake over either of those).<br />
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HOW could you not want something like that in your life? I find it endlessly fascinating the things that nature comes up with all on her own.<br />
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As for me, I'm doing really well. So well I am planning on returning to work on Monday. I've been so eager to get back to normal, but I know that tomorrow night I'll whine "I don't wanna go to work tomorrow!" (which is in itself normal, so I guess I've made it after all).<br />
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I've made some progress on my sweater (I'm fair-isling with three colors per row, and am convincing myself it's good therapy so I don't lose my mind over the tedium of trapping floats and remembering there's a third color). And I've got a bucketload of afghan squares as well.<br />
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Since we last chatted, I've seen a specialist and he wants more tests before he confirms the diagnosis. He would not say what it was or what it wasn't, just simply that he "needs more information." Whatever it turns out to be (if not MS), I've been progressing well--I'm able to drive, the fatigue has lessened, and based on how much <i>This Old House, Pawn Stars, </i>and <i>ER </i>I've been watching I've got three viable career options if I ever want to switch things up.<br />
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Improvement was gradual, but when I think that exactly a month ago I couldn't see straight and had a mind-numbing headache that wouldn't quit it seems like it just zoomed along. I am eternally grateful that I was born into a fabulous, supportive family that doesn't let you dwell too long and keeps it real (while bringing tea and chocolate upon request).<br />
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I hope to have some things to share with you soon, as I'm eager to start new projects. If it's going to be too cold to wear a new sweater, then I want to make things that remind me of spring. However, it's supposed to snow Monday, so I have no idea how nature works anymore. So on that note, I'll say Happy Easter/Passover/what's passing for spring, and see you soon!Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00170032696624433205noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089227595191821356.post-50575186141970991272018-03-18T15:23:00.000-04:002018-03-18T15:23:47.404-04:00SometimesSometimes, it doesn't matter that you've made such great progress on a sweater that you think you might get to wear it before it's too warm to do so. Because the universe had other plans.<br />
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Sometimes, it doesn't matter that you bought a fabric bundle for the first time in ages because you saw a picture of a quilt using it and got a bad case of the must-haves. Because the universe had other plans.<br />
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Sometimes it doesn't matter that you're not very good at something; it can still be therapeutic and fill the hours. Because the universe had other plans.<br />
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And sometimes it doesn't matter who gave you flowers on <a href="http://sweetbeebuzzings.blogspot.com/2018/02/alaska-hat.html" target="_blank">Valentine's Day</a> (a right loony-toon, if you're curious, haha). When the universe has other plans, it matters who gives you flowers after your world turns upside down.<br />
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Because sometimes, <a href="http://sweetbeebuzzings.blogspot.com/2018/02/mock-rib-watch-cap-and-ginormous-pom-pom.html" target="_blank">vertigo isn't vertigo</a>. At all.<br />
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I've written and rewritten this post in my head a zillion or so times. I've struggled with putting this out there in the world. But we've been pals for a while, so I thought I'd share.<br />
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About three weeks ago I was rushed to the emergency room in the middle of the night with tingling and numbness down the left side of my body, and eyes that wouldn't sit still. It was a struggle to open my eyes to do anything; if something can move in fifty directions at once that's what EVERYthing was doing. I was fairly calm, yet terrified at the same time (can that happen?).<br />
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I was poked, prodded, scanned, scanned with contrast, scanned again, and asked for a sequence of events enough times that if they asked me again I might have said "Just read what the other person *%@#$^ wrote!!!" I had a lumbar puncture with one cranky guy ("Sit still! You're moving!"---OK, guy with a needle in my spine while I can't even sit without someone holding me up. Calm yourself). I had a very hasty neurologist fire questions at me like a drill sergeant ("What's in your left hand? What's in your right? Is this sharp? Is this soft? Come on, come on, is it soft?"). Not to mention the usual hospital antics (gowns with slits in the back, assisted bathroom breaks, being woken up every two hours for vitals, injections, and what have you). And phrases I never thought I'd say to my mother ("Mom, this is Tom. Tom gave me a bath and I didn't make him buy me dinner first").<br />
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So, after being told I don't have Lyme disease, or lupus, or meningitis, I learned that I DO have multiple sclerosis (MS). If I wasn't already on my back in a hospital bed (for almost a week), this would have knocked me over for sure.<br />
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All of the things they said can contribute to this are not present in my life (smoking, family history, harmful environmental factors like working with chemicals, etc). And there's nothing you do to cause it. You just go to bed one night like you usually do. Then you wake up feeling weird, and a week later you're sent home with a walker, and instructions on how to inject yourself.<br />
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It took almost two weeks for this to fully hit me. Each day was a struggle and a triumph. I'd feel myself getting better, and then I'd have a wee setback. But for the past few days, I've been moving along unassisted (a bit slower, and sometimes unsteady), but making good progress. After putting on no makeup and having my hair pulled back, I'm back to my normal look (including contact lenses and mascara). My vision is back to normal. And the skull-crushing headache I had for ten days has finally gone.<br />
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I'm still bewildered. I'm still not OK with this. I'm still angry. And I'm still scared.<br />
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But I'm still me. My hands still know what to do. And yarn and making things still calm me and feed my soul.<br />
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A pile of granny squares has proven a triumph. The first few felt foreign, as though my hands didn't know what that hook was for. But that wee pile there has grown even more. As I stitch, my brain ponders what it wants this blanket to look like on the flip side. A riot of color? Color muted with a neutral? Anything's possible. Because the universe might have plans, but I have other ideas.Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00170032696624433205noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089227595191821356.post-91605033825328316302018-02-18T21:04:00.000-05:002018-02-18T21:05:36.369-05:00Alaska HatHi kids! First, thank you for your lovely notes on my <a href="http://sweetbeebuzzings.blogspot.com/2018/02/mock-rib-watch-cap-and-ginormous-pom-pom.html" target="_blank">last post</a>. My CT scan came back normal, so the doctor is thinking I have a viral ear infection. I haven't had any more dizziness, but have an occasional bit of...that feeling you get when you stand up too fast. It's worse when I turn my head too quickly, so I'm watching that, but for the most part I'm definitely feeling much better. Not quite my usual self, but getting there.<br />
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Second--look at these beautiful pink roses I received for Valentine's Day. The light was coming in at just the right angle, so a picture was necessary.</div>
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Third, I made another hat. I'm getting a kick out of knitting colorwork hats as they're quick and satisfying, and justifies my purchase of an interchangeable 16-inch circular needle set. This pattern is called 'Alaska' and is available on <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/alaska-6#" target="_blank">Ravelry</a>. I used the exact same yarns as called for in the pattern so as to get the northern lights effect, but this simple pattern would look great in a combination as simple as white and gray.</div>
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I made marks all over the chart so I would know where I trapped the floats so I coud trap them somewhere else on the row above (if you trap them in the same spot all the time, they show through the work). Some of these sections had looooooong floats that I didn't love, but I took my time, worked consistently, and everything came out fine.</div>
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I even like the way the inside looks. I've been doing research on color dominance when doing colorwork. According to some, there should be no dominant color as that indicates bad tension. This makes absolute sense to me and is what I'm aiming for. However, there are more on the other side of this particular coin that say your background color should carry on the top and your dominant color should be on the bottom (the 'dominant' color being the one you want to stand out the most). The dominance part comes in with how the strand lays on the back of the work, and how it is pulled naturally by the stitches, and so on. I wanted my trees to be dominant, so I sub-consciously decided to NOT make them so (would you expect anything else?). Either way I look at it, though, I really like this hat (and truthfully I don't think I can tell if one color is more dominant than the other unless I knit another one up the other way and compare them side by side).</div>
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I finished off with a tidy little pom-pom and promptly wore it out. It's a toasty thing, and fits without squeezing my brains out (but also stays put). </div>
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All this stranded knitting to build my confidence for an Icelandic sweater. I've made good progress on the sweater, but have yet to hit the colored section. With the way our weather has been I won't be needing it this winter so it doesn't really matter how long it takes me, anyway.</div>
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OK, tea and the Olympics are calling my name. Later, kids!</div>
Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00170032696624433205noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089227595191821356.post-52187033995397823952018-02-12T13:43:00.000-05:002018-02-12T13:44:29.827-05:00Mock Rib Watch Cap (and a Ginormous Pom Pom)Hello. How goeth it with thee? I'm sitting very still right now, as I had a severe case of vertigo yesterday (I've never had that before, and it is one of the scariest things I've ever experienced), and I'm a little nervous to drive so I called off from work today (which I absolutely hate to do). The doctor did his little tests and ordered me a scan as he couldn't tell what the issue is, and I can't have it soon enough, let me tell you. I will be overjoyed if I never ever feel that way again. I'm just glad it didn't happen during my date on Friday, or at the bookstore on Saturday, or heaven forbid while I was driving.<br />
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Anyway, a few weeks ago when I made <a href="http://sweetbeebuzzings.blogspot.com/2018/02/tesserino-cowl.html" target="_blank">this cowl</a>, I was going to take a crack at a very matching hat. But I was also very eager to make a simple hat with the multi-colored yarn to see how the stripes worked up. Simple won out, so here's the hat:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWz46IP8Xk-Iu_9HD2lkJLliVcrrENWDoOd_VgK9uGp9NOkLQdgeaaPqKJbj1a4RQSQlnpNg9cuRD9lhbhW1lBUUe-JekNoKoOUNQs4OBE-6_S57W8egdlc5npHJ5VhyN0FGP73uOLjCo/s1600/DSCN2623.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1256" height="610" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWz46IP8Xk-Iu_9HD2lkJLliVcrrENWDoOd_VgK9uGp9NOkLQdgeaaPqKJbj1a4RQSQlnpNg9cuRD9lhbhW1lBUUe-JekNoKoOUNQs4OBE-6_S57W8egdlc5npHJ5VhyN0FGP73uOLjCo/s640/DSCN2623.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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It's hard to tell in the photo but the colors soften towards the peak, almost as though they come from two different balls of yarn. The pattern is the Mock Rib Watch cap by Tanis Gray (it's <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/mock-rib-watch-cap" target="_blank">free on Ravelry</a>). I did an extra half inch of the rib for some reason I don't remember right now, but I like it. I've made this cap before in a <a href="http://sweetbeebuzzings.blogspot.com/2016/01/slouchy-cap-fingerless-mitts-and-wee.html" target="_blank">different yarn</a> and it's still one of my favorites.<br />
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I even love how this yarn looks on the inside. I saw a tip somewhere on attaching pom poms so they can be removed. You feed the ends through a button with big holes and tie a really secure bow. Then just untie it if you want to wash the hat.<br />
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Speaking of pom poms, at Christmas time I bought some pom pom makers. I think I perfected my technique (because you know, it's probably a high demand sort of thing), and the key is to not wind up too much so there's room for everything to squeeeeeeeeze together when you tie it off. I made the biggest size for this one--it might have been overkill.<br />
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This is a really nice-fitting hat. I didn't do a gauge swatch or anything, just went for it, and it fits just how I like.<br />
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I won't tell you how many photos I took before I was able to deem one "somewhat acceptable." It looks like it's a snug fit, but it's not. It's fitted, but it is not squeezing the life out of my head. It's been warm and rainy here, so if winter could remember it's supposed to be here so I could go ahead and wear this I sure would appreciate it.<br />
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OK, I am going to go attempt to make some tea without falling over. Wish me luck!Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00170032696624433205noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089227595191821356.post-24292885684205231232018-02-05T22:39:00.000-05:002018-02-05T22:39:28.880-05:00Tesserino CowlWe have had some wicked frigid weather here this winter. No snow, though. I love snow. I want it to snow. But there is nothing like sitting all cozy with some yarn in your lap and something sprouting from the ends of your needles or hook when it's cold outside. Throw in a big mug of tea and some Netflix and I'll hibernate. Well, I <i>would</i> hibernate if I didn't have to go to work.<br />
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But anyway, when I went to Vermont a few months ago we got a nice little swag bag of yarn goodies at the retreat. I had some Plymouth Yarns <i>Galway</i>, and some of their <i>Gina</i>. I decided to use these to make the Tesserino Cowl. This is a free pattern offered by Louet. All you have to do is sign up for the newsletter (which you can always unsubscribe from), and they'll email you the pattern. <a href="https://stitchcraftmarketing.leadpages.co/tesserino-cowl/" target="_blank">Here's the link</a>.<br />
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Anyway, the colorwork technique used is mosaic knitting. It's a slip-stitch technique, so you're only knitting with one color per row. Slipped stitches create the pattern. There are some floats to manage here and there in the pattern, but nothing long or difficult to control.<br />
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So here's my finished cowl:<br />
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I used the recommended needles, but this did come out a little bit tight in the stitching and smaller than I thought it would. Now that I understand how this technique works I understand why (the slipped stitches pull the fabric a little bit, making it tighter). If I made this again I would needle-up, that's for sure (or figure out how to elongate my stitches without pulling them too much). But it's a pretty fun knit, and pretty cool to see the design emerge. There are books of mosaic knitting designs, so if you'd like to do colorwork but are nervous about color-changes and floats this might be a nice starting point.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw2cf0cuPTRryqz_8ZgM2JeTrPfs6MGIlMZ73ggycVNkLuu0iMANkMakT_5n-gjps6rFdxIJrhiIE3kKUye6BV15-Q8YIRnZSYZq0JKptH9QpaOljnUZBlrp9SVbBZQ3v5g1YnOErjAZ8/s1600/DSCN2617.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw2cf0cuPTRryqz_8ZgM2JeTrPfs6MGIlMZ73ggycVNkLuu0iMANkMakT_5n-gjps6rFdxIJrhiIE3kKUye6BV15-Q8YIRnZSYZq0JKptH9QpaOljnUZBlrp9SVbBZQ3v5g1YnOErjAZ8/s640/DSCN2617.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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In this next photo you can see the slipped stitches--they're twice the height of the 'normal' stitches next to them.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ThoWZiXxrxhKyfnV303xTs8lhnzD_FKBGZT5izZL1DYp6iZAtwQgltaX3Dlu-MF4p9Ks-zw9Cw1q0G51jak-E2G7xXveq_j5DzlkhXpl6e5UC0IP-dBFF4oft6DMi9VUeHhzRpH6-t4/s1600/DSCN2618.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ThoWZiXxrxhKyfnV303xTs8lhnzD_FKBGZT5izZL1DYp6iZAtwQgltaX3Dlu-MF4p9Ks-zw9Cw1q0G51jak-E2G7xXveq_j5DzlkhXpl6e5UC0IP-dBFF4oft6DMi9VUeHhzRpH6-t4/s640/DSCN2618.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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And here is the back of the work, which is kind of fun to look at, too.<br />
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This cowl was supposed to finish a bit higher (I did five repeats instead of eight) because I thought the full size might be too stifling. I do like the thinner size, but I wish I had done a thicker black garter stitch border, as I don't know if what I did is enough to keep it from curling (it's been wet blocked, and is OK so far). We shall see. Here it is on:<br />
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I wanted it long enough to double-wrap, but it's not (and looking at pattern photos it's not supposed to be). However, it's an easy ten-stitch (if I'm remembering right) repeat, so that'd be an easy adjustment. Knitting it in thinner yarn as a borderless tube that you kitchener together into an infinity scarf would be fun, too.<br />
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This was a fun knit, I love the way the stitch looks, and it's an easy technique for a nice impact. Colorwork of various forms is my 2018 knitting objective (oh, if only I could write my work goals with the ease I write my craft goals) so I'll share my adventures as I take them.<br />
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Now, I must trot to bed. I was up a bit late last night. Not sure if any of you paid attention, but our Philadelphia Eagles won the Super Bowl, and I was a bit wired last night. Toodles!Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00170032696624433205noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089227595191821356.post-76052652195397031462018-01-27T17:26:00.001-05:002018-01-27T17:26:49.102-05:00Lots of Love: Knitted Heart PatternHello! A few people asked for a pattern to <a href="http://sweetbeebuzzings.blogspot.com/2017/12/pink-and-gold-things.html" target="_blank">knit a small heart</a>. I had to find some time to get my act together, but I've got it ready for you now. And with time to spare before Valentine's Day! Woot!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgidRrjE4yodivMvxdgQVX8nz5R3CEvEhdC4xaXqGDSyFqCmnGuBy1Pn8tUF6aQqbpM3HmjYSG1f1NfOivauG5rLY3kn4l9KcQ1NdeMUo_1lWxtFVAdsXgU9BmHiB-90XW4pG-AmjseLh0/s1600/DSCN2568.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgidRrjE4yodivMvxdgQVX8nz5R3CEvEhdC4xaXqGDSyFqCmnGuBy1Pn8tUF6aQqbpM3HmjYSG1f1NfOivauG5rLY3kn4l9KcQ1NdeMUo_1lWxtFVAdsXgU9BmHiB-90XW4pG-AmjseLh0/s640/DSCN2568.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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This pattern assumes that you already know how to knit and purl. I'm not going to teach you how to use double-pointeds, increase/decrease, or do kitchener (grafting) stitch. BUT I am going to link you to videos that will have you doing it in no time. I find that videos are great for learning new techniques, and rather than reinvent the wheel I'll just connect you to a wheel-maker.<br />
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For this you will need yarn, a little bit of stuffing, and a set of five dpns smaller than your yarn gauge calls for. I've used dk weight on size 2.5 (sock) needles for my hearts. A row counter or paper/pen would be handy to tick off some rows. You'll also need a single locking stitch marker or a safety pin or a scrap of yarn to help mark the beginning of the round). And a yarn needle to weave in the ends.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtXRFIiE8fhb7N4Tt6pYmRjzStgb9MAso8VmUmcQnyqQ0xwN3aGFXocEgT3ZNUZmp7eGXTzEARkWQVdop4efcDkYsw9A0WHP3Q0kCTjzfvesGLvQexR1UeRmjqNFJ2j3Og2V4-I7MFVrU/s1600/DSCN2587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtXRFIiE8fhb7N4Tt6pYmRjzStgb9MAso8VmUmcQnyqQ0xwN3aGFXocEgT3ZNUZmp7eGXTzEARkWQVdop4efcDkYsw9A0WHP3Q0kCTjzfvesGLvQexR1UeRmjqNFJ2j3Og2V4-I7MFVrU/s640/DSCN2587.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here are the abbreviations and links for terms you'll see in the pattern:<br />
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CO - cast on (I used a <a href="http://verypink.com/2011/07/13/long-tail-cast-on-slingshot-method/" target="_blank">long tail cast-on</a>)<br />
STS - stitches<br />
DPN - double-pointed needle<br />
K - <a href="http://verypink.com/2010/03/13/video-the-knit-stitch/" target="_blank">knit</a><br />
P - <a href="http://verypink.com/2010/03/13/video-the-purl-stitch/" target="_blank">purl</a><br />
KFB - <a href="http://verypink.com/2010/03/13/video-knit-front-back-kfb/" target="_blank">knit into the front and back of each stitch</a><br />
RLI -<a href="http://verypink.com/2014/03/26/lifted-increases/" target="_blank"> right leaning increase</a><br />
LLI - <a href="http://verypink.com/2014/03/26/lifted-increases/" target="_blank">left leaning increase</a><br />
SSK - <a href="http://verypink.com/2010/03/13/video-knit-two-together-k2tog/" target="_blank">slip slip knit</a><br />
K2tog - <a href="http://verypink.com/2010/03/13/video-knit-two-together-k2tog/" target="_blank">knit two together</a><br />
SSP - <a href="http://verypink.com/2011/12/14/slip-slip-purl-ssp/" target="_blank">slip slip purl</a><br />
P2tog - purl two together (same as K2tog but you're purling)<br />
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OK, ready? I'll walk you through it, and then write out the full pattern at the end so the steps are all in one place.<br />
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CO four stitches on one needle.<br />
1 - KFB into each stitch (for a total of eight stitches).<br />
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Divide stitches evenly onto four dpns (2 stitches each). This starts off a tad frustrating due to the <a href="http://verypink.com/2012/08/15/working-few-stitches-on-dpns/" target="_blank">scant number of stitches</a>, but after we increase a few rows it gets MUCH easier.<br />
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2 - Join into a round (making sure your stitches aren't twisted), and knit all stitches. Why not join right away? Because it irritated the bejesus out of me, and this method still leaves you without a gap where we joined.<br />
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<i>That's my working yarn on the right. The tail is kind of tucked down between the two needles.</i></div>
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OK, here comes the pattern for making the 'v' (bottom) part of the heart. It's too small to add a stitch marker yet, so make sure you pay careful attention to what you're doing for a few more rounds.</div>
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3 - (K1, RLI, K2, LLI, K1) twice (12 sts)</div>
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4 - Knit all sts</div>
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5 - (K1, RLI, K4, LLI, K1) twice (16 sts) (you should be able clip a stitch marker onto the stitches at the beginning of the round now)</div>
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6 - Knit all sts</div>
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7 - (K1, RLI, K6, LLI, K1) twice (20 sts)</div>
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8 - Knit all sts</div>
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9 - (K1, RLI, K8, LLI, K1) twice (24 sts)</div>
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10 - Knit all sts</div>
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Continue increasing as above (on every other round) until there are 48 sts total (12 on each needle).</div>
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Knit 5 rounds evenly. You can see how it's getting that adorable little heart shape:</div>
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We're going to shape the top now, but we're going to do each side separately. Arrange your work as below (your working yarn should be towards the right), and take note of how I've numbered the needles.</div>
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We're going to work on needles 1 and 4 only right now. Ignore 2 and 3. They'll be fine for now (but arrange them so the stitches aren't dangerously close to the tips).<br />
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1 - Needle 1 <b>only</b>: K1, SSK, K6, K2tog, K1 (10 sts will be left on needle 1)<br />
2 - Turn the work, purl back across needle 1. Don't turn the work here.<br />
3 - Needle 4 <b>only</b>: P1, SSP, P6, P2tog, P1 (10 sts will be left on needle 4)<br />
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Now we're back to working across both needles.<br />
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4 - (K1, SSK, K4, K2tog, K1) twice (8 sts on each needle)<br />
5 - Purl across all stitches<br />
6 - (K1, SSK, K2, K2tog, K1) twice (6 sts on each needle)<br />
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Cut the yarn leaving about a 12-inch tail. <a href="http://verypink.com/2011/07/27/kitchener-stitch/" target="_blank">Kitchener stitch</a> this section closed. Don't do anything with the tail yet. Also--don't worry about that little nubby bump you might have.<br />
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Now we're going to do the exact same thing on needles 2 and 3.<br />
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Attach yarn between needles 2 and 3.<br />
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1 - Needle 3 <b>only</b>: K1, SSK, K6, K2tog, K1 (10 sts will be left on needle 1)<br />
2 - Turn the work, purl back across needle 3. Don't turn the work here.<br />
3 - Needle 2 <b>only</b>: P1, SSP, P6, P2tog, P1 (10 sts will be left on needle 2)<br />
Now we're back to working across both needles.<br />
<br />
4 - (K1, SSK, K4, K2tog, K1) twice (8 sts on each needle)<br />
5 - Purl across all stitches<br />
6 - (K1, SSK, K2, K2tog, K1) twice (6 sts on each needle)<br />
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Cut yarn, and kitchener stitch closed.<br />
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Add your stuffing until it's how you want it.<br />
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Thread your needle with a tail, and feed it back under the stitches at the top, pulling it snug. The little nub will disappear to the inside and the top will round out a bit.<br />
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Now use the tail to sew that side of the heart top shut. Repeat on the other side.<br />
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To finish off, I tied those two tails together, fed them through the heart stuffing and out the other side, cutting the rest of the yarn off. This hides the tail inside and saves you from weaving it in. This will be fine as this isn't exactly a high-stress item where the ends need to be super secure. I just fed the other two ends in the same way, snugging them up a little first.<br />
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<i>My sewing isn't super neat but I needed to hurry so I didn't pay careful attention. However, if you do it comes out neat and tidy.</i></div>
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And there you have it. For the simplified pattern, see below.</div>
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<span style="color: red;">❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤</span></div>
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CO four stitches on one needle.<br />
1 - KFB into each stitch (8 sts)<br />
Divide stitches evenly onto four dpns (2 stitches each)<br />
2 - Join into a round (making sure your stitches aren't twisted), and knit all stitches<br />
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3 - (K1, RLI, K2, LLI, K1) twice (12 sts)</div>
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4 - Knit all sts</div>
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5 - (K1, RLI, K4, LLI, K1) twice (16 sts) (you should be able clip a stitch marker onto the stitches at the beginning of the round now)</div>
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6 - Knit all sts</div>
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7 - (K1, RLI, K6, LLI, K1) twice (20 sts)</div>
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8 - Knit all sts</div>
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9 - (K1, RLI, K8, LLI, K1) twice (24 sts)</div>
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10 - Knit all sts<br />
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Continue increasing as above (on every other round) until there are 48 sts total (12 on each needle).</div>
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Knit 5 rounds evenly.<br />
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Shape one side of heart top:<br />
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We're going to work on needles 1 and 4 only right now. Ignore 2 and 3. They'll be fine for now (but arrange them so the stitches aren't dangerously close to the tips).<br />
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1 - Needle 1 <b>only</b>: K1, SSK, K6, K2tog, K1 (10 sts will be left on needle 1)<br />
2 - Turn the work, purl back across needle 1. Don't turn the work here.<br />
3 - Needle 4 <b>only</b>: P1, SSP, P6, P2tog, P1 (10 sts will be left on needle 4)<br />
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Now we're back to working across both needles.<br />
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4 - (K1, SSK, K4, K2tog, K1) twice (8 sts on each needle)<br />
5 - Purl across all stitches<br />
6 - (K1, SSK, K2, K2tog, K1) twice (6 sts on each needle)<br />
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Now we're going to do the exact same thing on needles 2 and 3.<br />
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Attach yarn between needles 2 and 3.<br />
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1 - Needle 3 <b>only</b>: K1, SSK, K6, K2tog, K1 (10 sts will be left on needle 1)<br />
2 - Turn the work, purl back across needle 3. Don't turn the work here.<br />
3 - Needle 2 <b>only</b>: P1, SSP, P6, P2tog, P1 (10 sts will be left on needle 2)<br />
Now we're back to working across both needles.<br />
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4 - (K1, SSK, K4, K2tog, K1) twice (8 sts on each needle)<br />
5 - Purl across all stitches<br />
6 - (K1, SSK, K2, K2tog, K1) twice (6 sts on each needle)<br />
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Cut yarn, and kitchener stitch closed.<br />
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Add your stuffing until it's how you want it.<br />
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Thread your needle with a tail, and feed it back under the stitches at the top, pulling it snug.<br />
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Now use the tail to sew that side of the heart top shut. Repeat on the other side.<br />
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To finish off, I tied those two tails together, fed them through the heart stuffing and out the other side, cutting the rest of the yarn off. This hides the tail inside and saves you from weaving it in. This will be fine as this isn't exactly a high-stress item where the ends need to be super secure. I just fed the other two ends in the same way, snugging them up a little first.<br />
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Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00170032696624433205noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089227595191821356.post-14400468550170606702018-01-21T22:55:00.000-05:002018-01-21T22:55:47.064-05:00Top to ToteBack before Christmas, a colleague asked me to turn a shirt into a bag of whatever sort I could manage. She doesn't wear the shirt anymore but loves the print and wanted to make it usable. I originally thought it was a blouse, and was trying to think how I was going to do this without it looking like...well, a blouse. It wasn't a blouse, though, it was a fairly plain, not overly stretchy, knit shirt.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-6w1S1u8pf7ymkgoOzw8BBBIKa4q4X0-5jT0SUgCXTh5gW56iuXTlK0zfaRkV_wGYpHjG9FHEy1PTaauYHfEGXj1eOJ2-qhVvBBlLEP9qEuxJomrmv1Yb7XW0bg2JuMLewqGjjORVf6I/s1600/DSCN2580.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-6w1S1u8pf7ymkgoOzw8BBBIKa4q4X0-5jT0SUgCXTh5gW56iuXTlK0zfaRkV_wGYpHjG9FHEy1PTaauYHfEGXj1eOJ2-qhVvBBlLEP9qEuxJomrmv1Yb7XW0bg2JuMLewqGjjORVf6I/s640/DSCN2580.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The shirt itself was an extra small petite. That is not a lot of fabric, but I cut oh so carefully to get as much usable fabric as I could. I used ShapeFlex 101 interfacing to stabilize the fabric for a small tote. I had just the right amount of ivory muslin, and a roll of black strapping whose purchase eludes me, in my stash. I love using things I have on hand.<br />
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From the body of the shirt, I was able to make an insanely easy tote. And from the upper sleeves I was able to make a front zip pouch.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg86d3EKfBvvNCz_kucQoEP34xt4lvy3fG-BnN4Rt_TYlzsS9ZDaP-t9FaRqeJOnP6tkvbULKsVjFDk8AEyTRXu6EAE-RwdnmVjUsQgijB-_vbf2Y_vc7KIesx1PEGU7YEQfcmb92t8GMA/s1600/DSCN2581.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1173" data-original-width="1245" height="602" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg86d3EKfBvvNCz_kucQoEP34xt4lvy3fG-BnN4Rt_TYlzsS9ZDaP-t9FaRqeJOnP6tkvbULKsVjFDk8AEyTRXu6EAE-RwdnmVjUsQgijB-_vbf2Y_vc7KIesx1PEGU7YEQfcmb92t8GMA/s640/DSCN2581.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The knit was actually thick for a knit fabric, so with the interfacing added these pieces turned out to be nice and sturdy, yet soft. It makes me regret a blouse I got rid of a few years ago because it didn't fit (buxom girl problems--I either play peek-a-boo with a certain area, or I look pregnant in others). The fabric was so darling it would have made a cute frame purse. Oh, well. Sometimes inspiration comes to us too late.<br />
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Both of these pieces took me maybe two hours total. Very easy, very satisfying sewing for a Saturday afternoon. I haven't really been feeling like sewing lately (I'm sure you've noticed), but I'm hoping this gives me a little motivation to get started again (as I do have ideas rolling around in my noggin).<br />
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If you'd like to make your tote or zip pouch, you can find the instructions for both by clicking on the 'Tutorials' tab and scrolling down.<br />
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Happy stitching!Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00170032696624433205noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089227595191821356.post-61722067970498339472018-01-14T23:25:00.000-05:002018-01-15T11:01:43.684-05:00Purply-urply Snowflake HatWith two solid weeks behind us, I don't want to be one of those people still saying 'Happy new year!' so I'm just going to say 'Hey! I hope the new year has been good to you thus far!' Some weather, huh? We had a deep freeze that lasted from Christmas through to last week, a few days of spring temps, and now we're back to freezing. Thank goodness for hand-knit socks.<br />
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When I went on that knitting retreat in Vermont, one of our instructors was <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Modern-Lopi-Approaches-Icelandic-Classic/dp/0997000422/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1515989872&sr=8-1&keywords=lars+rains" target="_blank">Lars Rains, Mr. Modern Lop</a>i. His class was on how to make a perfectly fitting, bottom-up yoked sweater (think of the iconic Icelandic <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lopapeysa" target="_blank">lopapeysa</a>). My knitting goal this year is to <strike>hone my</strike> get some color work skills. I did not want to plunge right in with a sweater, but Lars designed a kit for his class attendees that looked like a great first try. I have been looking at it every day, forcing myself to finish all the other things before I even touched it. And now my first project of 2018 is off the needles.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTZy5Yd2W1ups0ufMEuIG2tMnnkeipDlaw1N9bb4KPwsbQR4A4jQadCqLqKs2kol6ZjblA5rqYtSvymzYRCweSCWdp42Oaahyphenhyphen9x5DWUcYRpcT4nStbbEP7wo1K_Tl-vMNC2JqmlDnsQ1w/s1600/DSCN2572.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1134" data-original-width="1455" height="498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTZy5Yd2W1ups0ufMEuIG2tMnnkeipDlaw1N9bb4KPwsbQR4A4jQadCqLqKs2kol6ZjblA5rqYtSvymzYRCweSCWdp42Oaahyphenhyphen9x5DWUcYRpcT4nStbbEP7wo1K_Tl-vMNC2JqmlDnsQ1w/s640/DSCN2572.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I checked online for a few videos on carrying strands properly and getting good tension, and then I cast on. The yarn provided was Rowan Felted Tweed (a wool, alpaca, and viscose blend). It was soft and fluffy, and a lot of fun to knit with. It's not even close to the strongest yarn as it's very easy to break by hand, but for a hat it's light and warm, and I love the softly muddled stitches..<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVzx6rq17PXJXMtGVR5MG8J7UQPFYsQHSbE29tbhkicdqWFtBKQXDsm_hS5-QJ4enXeDgMDUSwq2x-D6f-gbJtgcM-w5ii9DKEA0vqttBl3i6fwvHlaKbAcz-f0igGRi5C9KN0_P8ca1Y/s1600/DSCN2573.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVzx6rq17PXJXMtGVR5MG8J7UQPFYsQHSbE29tbhkicdqWFtBKQXDsm_hS5-QJ4enXeDgMDUSwq2x-D6f-gbJtgcM-w5ii9DKEA0vqttBl3i6fwvHlaKbAcz-f0igGRi5C9KN0_P8ca1Y/s640/DSCN2573.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I did the snowflake portion twice--the first time I goofed on the count and had a bunch of amorphous blobs. So I frogged back to the purple stripe and did it again. This worked well as by that point my tension was feeling good and looking better, and I remembered that I had learned to count in kindergarten so the charted portion came out just right.<br />
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My floats seem nice and even, and there was still good stretch to that portion of the hat. I was reading an Elizabeth Zimmermann book where she discussed floats, and she said (as others have) that it's better to leave them a little longer than you think, and if you're using wool (in her opinion why wouldn't you?) those fibers are going to start sticking to each other pretty quickly and the floats will lock themselves in place. This yarn is quite 'sticky,' so they'll be staying put.<br />
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I had a lazy pajama weekend for the majority of it, so I wasn't going to model the hat for you (you're welcome), but it looks just like the pattern picture.<br />
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The only thing I did different was use a larger needle size. The ribbing was to be a US 3, and the rest of the hat a US 5. I used a US 4 and 6 (I couldn't find my US 3 needles); I'm thinking the recommended needles would have been just right as this hat is slightly loose. I personally think it's fine as I don't like snug hats, but I don't really wear hats so I gave this to sister Alicia. It stays put nicely and doesn't feel like it's squeezing your brains out, so it's probably okay.<br />
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I'm quite happy with this as a first try. A few more successful pieces and I might be ready to cast on that sweater.Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00170032696624433205noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089227595191821356.post-9480249519378943102017-12-30T14:09:00.002-05:002017-12-30T14:09:36.146-05:00Pink (and Gold) ThingsHi people! As of this moment, as of right now, I do not have a single work-in-progress. I have supplies, and ideas, and if we have a huge blizzard that shuts down the city for a month and I can't get to work for weeks 😉 I will not be bored a lick. I have finished the things. So now you get to see them.<br />
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First up is a baby blanket. I started this at the beginning of July when I had a few long-distance car rides to get through (as a passenger, of course). It's knit just like a grandmother's dishcloth, but every eighth row you purl, and get a little bit of texture.<br />
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This yarn was originally for a shawl, then I tried to make it be a sweater. Then I decided on a baby blanket. I simply used half the yarn, then decreased. I have a teeny bit left over, just enough for some pretty pink roses or something.<br />
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The yarn is Scheepjes Stone Washed in Rose Quartz. It's an 80/20 cotton and acrylic blend, which seems perfect for a soft blanket. Except I neglected to check the care instructions. It's machine washable, but you're not supposed to tumble dry it. It's a lay-flat. Not the most convenient thing for a blankie, so I'm wondering if anyone has put this yarn in the dryer and what befell it. Otherwise, it's a perfect little blanket, finishing at about one yard square.<br />
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Next. I'm not sure if any of you are familiar with the Little Box of Crochet. I had ordered a few in the spring, but never made the projects as they didn't really appeal to me, so I cancelled the subscription. I still followed the account on Instagram, though, so when they post a box that looks particularly enticing I grab one (and then cancel again--I'm sure they love me).<br />
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This one was for a couple of Christmas baubles. I made one--<br />
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--and thought "I do not love this and I don't want to carry on." I'm not the best crocheter of things that aren't flat, so I frustrate easily (especially when I don't think the pattern is particularly clear or well-written). So I went for the star ornament that also came in the little pattern booklet.<br />
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This was OK, except the edges wanted to curl like a bad perm. I did an extra round of gold to try and get it to flatten, but that didn't help. So I ran a length of thin floral wire through the back of the stitches to help its posture a bit and it worked just fine. I'm glad I didn't make a half dozen out of the gate, because I don't think my fingers could have handled any more wire.<br />
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So now what? I had these cute little bits of yarn left, and was done with the pattern booklet. So I knitted some little hearts.<br />
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I ditched the pattern I had found as I kept thinking "WHYYYYY would anyone do it this way?" So I told myself "Bee, you are not dumb, and you're a decent knitter. Figure out a better way." So I did. The pink has some slight wobbles due to figuring out what I wanted, but the peach was better, and then even better with the gold. Since Valentine's Day is in about six weeks, let me know if you'd like a tutorial (warning: there are DPNs, and a bit of kitchener stitch, but the rest is basically knits and purls).<br />
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I then had some bits of yarn left over that weren't enough for much more. Every year, my grandma insists on sending us each a bit of money for Christmas (no matter how much we protest). So I've used mine in recent years to buy a little crafty thing--one year I bought a flower loom, last year I bought a potholder loom. This year, I used coupons and bought all the sizes of pom-pom makers that Clover offers (except the gigantic one for which I cannot foresee a use). So I tested them out on these.<br />
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Seeing as this yarn is actually a mercerized cotton, it took some coaxing to get them to fluff a bit, but they'll be cute for package ties or adorning a gifted bottle of spirits or something like that. I want to try out different fibers to see which gives the best appearance (and since pom-poms are as cute and enduring as polka dots, I don't see at all how one can ever have too many).<br />
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So that's not a bad little bit of Christmas-movie-watching crafts and finishes. Plus I've now got a cute little heart pattern out of it. And hearts are one of my favorite motifs, and I love pink and red, and blah blah blah you know where I'm going with this.<br />
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I'm happy to have finished all of my projects, as well as all the little tasks I set for myself at the beginning of my Christmas break from work. I love getting things done. Does anyone else feel some kind of emotional release upon doing so?<br />
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Anywhodle, we've got just a little bit of time left in this old year, so I'm going to go decide which project will be the first of the new year.Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00170032696624433205noreply@blogger.com6