SussexYorkie

Shes leaving home!

2008-03-30T11:57:00.001+01:00

To www.sussexyorkie.wordpress.com.

Come across and say Hello.

That Not So Little Scarf

2008-03-23T07:39:00.003Z

This took much longer than it should as it required some concentration!

The reverse unblocked, rather like a mogul field. I'm not a skier but was once launched down one of these.

The front.

and

So you won't get too bored of photos, the blocking shots.

Pattern: That Little Scarf, Knitspot

Yarn: Dream in Colour Smooshy, Ruby River.

Very hard to catch the colour but one of these pictures will be near.

The Detail:

I used 4mm needles and did 13 extra pattern repeats, so 32 in total. This gave unblocked dimensions 44" x 6". Blocked aggressively, is there any other way, 71.5" x 9.5".

Despite being opened up much more than the pattern suggests it is still warm and perfect for what I wanted, see next photo. It will not be worn by the stairs on a regular basis!!

Maybe I'll do another some day, I'm thinking Bamboo.

Happy Easter.

Blue Jeans

2008-03-20T10:05:00.004Z

One thing finished in readiness for Easter. This pattern got better as it went along. I think it shows the lovely colours of what looked like a very blue skein off. Certainly has a look of flowing water.

Pattern: Go with the Flow from Interweave Favourite Socks.

Yarn: Yarn Yard Sock, Blue Jeans

Sock Blockers, part of the Socktopus Sock Club, newly arrived and a much better size than my others.

I am amassing a few bags of yarn, I know I said I was banned but one lot is for himself a jumper. One is for a Hemlock Ring Blanket, I am going to have to stop looking at Ravelry and Blogs. Will it be the Glace or the Juniper?

Jaeger Merino Aran in Juniper. Rooster Aran in Mushroom and Rooster DK in Glace. They were all relative bargains.

You may have gathered that this house has not just a passing connection with Railways, I am saying no more.

Man at the Post Office was intrigued by the Customs declaration that said Sock Blockers!. I left him wondering.

Getting a bit of extra knitting time in as I have 2 unexpected days off work due to a certain visit I made on Tuesday, 1.5 hours in the chair, lovely swollen face.

The No 1 Ladies Detective Agency

2008-03-19T19:00:00.002Z

Very sad news yesterday.

BUT

Good news is Alexander McCall Smith was on Breakfast TV with Mr J. L. B Matekoni of Speedy Motors and they are hopefully starting filming a 13 part series in the summer!

More to come it would seem.

Its Raining, its Pouring.

2008-03-16T09:34:00.003Z

The South Downs! Honestly.

Shoes, you can never have too many. My first Pair, Start-Rites and they almost match one of my newest acquisitions!

Is anyone else looking forward to The No 1 Ladies Detective Agency, Easter Sunday?

Still Here

2008-03-11T06:54:00.001Z

If a little distracted by the usual sock problem.

It all started so well with these.

Yarn Yard Sock Yarn, Blue Jeans .

Pattern: Go with the Flow from Interweave Knits Favourite Socks.

They weren't growing quickly enough, 2.25mm problem!

So I cast on these. Chameleon Colourworks Evolution, Figgy Pudding.

Pattern: Evolution Rib courtesy of Gilraen. 3mm very quick.

Can you tell I got distracted here as well.

A Swell Yarn Duet Middy, sorry can't remember the colour!

Pattern: Yarn Harlots Basic Sock recipe.

2.25mm again, oops.

I really need to get these 3 finished for Good Friday as I have big plans for Easter weekend. The latest Socktopus Sock Club socks, finish That Little Scarf , pattern and yarn poised for Hypotenuse, I seem to remember someone mentioned a Knitalong?? !

AND

I am itching to knit a bit of Lace, please don't give me any more ideas, well maybe one or two perhaps. I have Kiri, Spring Things, another Montego Bay and various others in mind especially if I manage to snaffle some Silk tonight, I'm not going to tell you where from because I need a fighting chance. Although I am confident, if the silk eludes me, that I have a few other yarns that will do.

There's Mitts aswell, think I need a lie down.

Genteel

2008-03-04T07:10:00.000Z

Yes, its another pair. The others seemed to go down well. Thank you for the kind comments, I only followed Jane's instructions.

This time in Sooty Cherry and Genteel. Aren't they just more genteel.

This is what I have left without breaking into a 100g ball. I think I'll have to wait for some more plain?

Finally, the person guilty of this crime is on his way to work. Scissors aren't exactly a new invention!!

Back to socks.

Cranford Mitts

2008-03-02T12:08:00.001Z

Knitted in Yarn Yard Merino Sooty Cherry and Mysteron
Pattern by Jane

Very easy knit but also very effective due to both the pattern and the lovely colours of the yarn.

Now I really must get on with the ironing!

Playing catch up

2008-03-01T08:53:00.002Z

Did you think I'd been doing nothing knitting wise recently, perhaps I've been knitting a jumper?

Wrong.

I think I have to admit that socks are definitely an addiction, one which I appear to have. Despite saying this year was for knitting other, even bigger, things I have already knit 5 pairs two of which were more than one colour. Have to say I prefer a pattern rather than multi coloured knitting.

The first two are Beaded Rib, Toe-up. I have now knit 4 pairs of Toe-up socks from patterns written by Diane and the way they are written make it very easy.

Posh Yarn Helena, colour Crisp. Crown Mountain Farms Sock Hop, colour Mustang Sally, this was quite a different yarn to knit with as it is handspun and a first for me but I like how they turned out.

Next Karenina Socks, pattern by Jane, from The Socktopus Sock Club. These are knit in The Knittery Merino which is a bit splitty but still very nice to knit with. Sadly I think they will need more than blocking for them to fit me. This is where tension is important!

Finally, one of my favourite knits to date, Evolution Rib Socks in Black Cherry. The pattern has been devised by Gilraen and works perfectly with the yarn which doesn't have a lot of elasticity. I have another colour in this yarn which will be cast on very soon.

After knitting so many pairs of socks I have experienced most types of DPN's, Boyes, Britanny birch, Knit Picks metal, Clover, Crystal Palace and Inox. Bottom of the list are Inox, I like 5" needles ideally, followed by Knit Picks these manage to provide me with many wounds. My favourite are Lantern Moon Ebony Sox Stix and as luck would have it they are soon to be adding a 2.5mm to their range. The very, very nice lady at Loop is going to let me know when they arrive, that will be a long lunch.

Enjoy our weekend, I'm hoping there's a delivery of Merino today for me to start some Mitts.

Loop

2008-02-29T07:06:00.001Z

Yesterday I visited a shop that is, in theory walking distance from where I work, silly me chose to get the bus. Of course it would have been quicker to walk.

Loop is a bit of a hidden treasure, this is my second visit and I managed without the help of an A to Z. I was very reserved, mainly because I have yet to think of a use for the lovely Blue Sky Alpaca Cotton although the Silk was very tempting. So just came away with this Berry coloured sock yarn.

and

These gorgeous buttons. No idea what for yet but I just needed them, thought at worst they would go together without too much trouble. I was tempted by some others until I saw they were £4.50 each!

After this very pleasant shop I met up with friends for a Chinese buffet meal, never again, its only saving grace was it only cost £10. Wagamamas looked so tempting across the way.Thankfully we usually like to try a new venue every time we meet.

Quick question, have any of you plans for 6th September? Do tell. Clue is here.

Lots of knitting news tomorrow followed by mitts, I hope.

Pay it Forward

2008-02-26T07:00:00.001Z

Both dispatched and now received.

I only photographed one item, and not very well, in my haste to get them sent.

Midwest Moonlight from Interweave Knits Scarf Style, knit in Hand Maiden Seasilk. Wouldn't mind one myself. This is the second version, the first was almost twice the width and although nice I didn't have enough yarn to make it long enough.

Here's a couple of links to better pictures from the recipients blogs, hope they don't mind.

http://spasticshepherdknits.blogspot.com/2008/02/thank-you-debbie.html

http://theyarnyard.co.uk/newsite/content/blogsection/2/9/ - 11th December entry, if you're interested. These are the 187 stitch socks!

P.S. You may have notice this blog template changes regularly, I have ideas but not time to actually execute them so hopefully this will at least be neat!

Acquisitions

2008-02-23T13:06:00.007Z

From Stash in Putney.

Dream in Colour Smooshy, In Vino Veritas. Hand Maiden Casbah, Fruit Punch. As you can see I have 1 project in mind, the Casbah was just too rich a colour to leave behind.

This morning we have been out for breakfast, you have to when you've run out of bread, don't you? With Mothers Day in mind we ventured into our local book seller, bad, bad, extremely bad idea.

This is the Pressie book, notice the sticker? BOGOF

Not one to refuse an offer like that I bought these for me! I am as dangerous in book shops as I am in yarn shops.

I am frantically trying to finish 3 pairs of socks before Natalie updates her shop next week. Will definitely be knitting a few pairs of these.

Enjoy your weekend.

Walk to Work

2008-02-22T07:00:00.002Z

Not exactly from Brighton but these are a few views from my journey from St Pancras International Station to the Office.

So from top left we have the departure board at St Pancras with Eurostar departures displayed, it was tempting. This has a wobble, sorry, I was running late.
Two side views of the outside of St Pancras which I think is a fantastic building.
The additional modern structure from where I emerge everyday into a building site which is Kings Cross side entrance.
A view down platform 8 at Kings Cross towards the concourse.
The "Lighthouse" at the junction of Pentonville Road and Grays Inn Road.
A wall of words which is a feature of the new Regent Quarter, this is part of the Kings Cross regeneration project. Believe me my walk has improved noticeably in the last 13 years.
A famous Italian Deli which stocks everything but has retained its original facade, behind the metal gates are paper bags full of baguettes. If I had photographed the opposite way you would have had a lovely view of Tesco Metro which will no doubt put this lovely shop and others out of business.

Finally

I pass platform 9 3/4 every day, usually a little busier with photographers than this.

Prizes

2008-02-21T15:42:00.001Z

I left a comment on this very nice ladys blog and look what I got.

Hand Made Notecards, Stitchmarkers (which actually say "Made with Love"), Chocolate of the very nicest kind.

And 3 balls of this deliciously coloured Bouton d'Or yarn. One I will have to investigate.

I took the camera today and managed to get a few pics despite being delayed. Tomorrow.

Prospecting

2008-02-20T18:59:00.005Z

Tomorrow I am using up the final half a day of last years leave with a little circuitous journey home.
Stash in Putney via Vauxhall so if I haven't had enough sproglett dodging I may venture into I Knit. Of course its only for window shopping, maybe that might be an itsy white lie.

I'm also contemplating taking my camera to give you some views of my daily commute, watch this space Harry Potter fans.

Picasa

2008-02-19T07:15:00.001Z

It is an easy way to waste a few hours with quite acceptable results. Picasa

Tulips 19 February 2008

Crafty

2008-02-16T16:53:00.003Z

Sorry for the different picture sizes but I am trying something new out.

Tomorrow I knit!

Enjoy your weekend.

Hidden

2008-02-15T12:25:00.001Z

Look what lurks in my button tin.

Not a very active life in The Brownies although I did make Sixer! Gardening, Animals and Collecting.

Girl Guides however was a different matter and still I was 1 badge off queens Guide. Think I'd lost interest by the age of 16.

Some of these I haven't a clue about but strangely I do recognise:
Basket Making.
Housekeeping, someone had me doing their ironing for that!
Childcare, yep I was babysitting regularly.
Cooking-how that popcorn filled the kitchen.
Map Reading.
Camping-never again (the memories of burnt Rice puddings linger still).
First Aid.
Collecting again.
I could guess at Sewing and Flower Arranging
One looks like Fire Making but I think I would have remembered that.
I'm sure I have a Guide Handbook somewhere.

Don't tell anyone but I think we were supposed to return these badges......they should have forgotten by now.

Home Made

2008-02-14T15:15:00.002Z

Inventive, I thought so!

How convenient that my current (well one of) project matched.

Confession time, I know I said I wasn't going to buy anymore but I just had to try Chameleon Colourworks Evolution.

This is Black Cherry and I'm using this very kind ladys pattern.

As you can see its not an easy colour to photograph. Gorgeous colour and very nice yarn.

It'll all become clear

2008-02-12T07:00:00.000Z

When we've departed.

This weekend we were in York where it was frosty mornings but very bright and sunny. On Sunday we decided a trip to Whitby was on the cards, good for photography, lots of nice coves along that part of the Yorkshire coast. However the weather had different ideas. The drive over the North York Moors was glorious, they were even burning off some of the heather. Then we saw Whitby Abbey in the distance, or the top of it poking through mist, very artistic but I think you would have needed a stronger lens than even my photographer has. We should have turned back then. Once we had found a parking space, no mean feat but it was free! We walked down past the Captain Cook monument to the harbour where this was the best picture we could get!

You couldn't see one side of the Harbour from the other. To make it worse the place was, not unusually, packed and there were queues at all the open eateries so we decided to push on further north to Sandsend and Staithes. Needless to say the above photograph is all we managed, once you approached all these places you could see the mist just peeping above the surrounding fields then you dropped down into it. So all in all a wasted journey photograph wise but the air was a bit fresher than that in a big city.

The weekend wasn't completely wasted we managed a very nice brunch in Bettys and my hair is slightly more respectable. Its always worrying when your hairdresser says "hasn't it grown"!

And the Moss Stitch Cushion, well that lovely Mummy of mine came up trumps.

Poor thing is somewhat bemused, and a tad disgusted, by her first Appraisal form, you don't expect one of these at the age of 70! So would I be.

Gorilla for a Pound

2008-02-07T07:10:00.000Z

I was only talking about knitting a Gorilla the other day when this very kind Lady decided to start a Raffle with the First Prize of..........................a Gorilla, Silver Backed at that. Take a look. You may even be lucky enough to win a Muffin.

Well done Monkee Maker.

Gift Bag

2008-02-05T06:56:00.000Z

Leftovers from the Chevron Scarf

The colours didn't do much for the pattern so the next bags will be plain.

Slight hiccup on the focusing front.

Finally making progress on the first Socktopus Sock Club offering, Karenina by Jane Lithgow.

Then I fancied trying Toe-Up again, glutton for punishment I know.

First Crown Mountain Farms Sock Hop in Mustang Sally. Then Posh Yarn Helena in Crisp on my favourite Lantern Moon Ebony Sox Stix.

Both of these are Beaded Rib, this pattern has excellent short row instructions.

Blocking

2008-02-03T09:05:00.000Z

This was finished within the Mystery Stole3 (Swan Lake and The Wings of A Dream) Knitalong timescale but has been in a cupboard since. So as I am trying to clear things up this weekend I have got it as far as blocking. Sadly I think it is far too fine for me to wear.

Knit in Yarn Yard Lace (which appears to be this weeks bargain) the pattern was much easier than I was expecting because of the hype. I like to try new things and this taught me how to bead which I am sure will be useful, it is also the first Cobweb lace I have knit and I am sure there are other things but it was a few months ago now.

P.S. The cushion cover is finished and ready for dispatch.

Shame

2008-02-01T07:00:00.000Z

This says it all.

I have decided to delve into the bottom, the very bottom, of my knitting bag and retrieve the longest outstanding WIP!

The dreaded Moss Stitch cushion cover.

Some of you may have read about my dislike for this stitch.

No?

If I show you the date on the magazine page from which this pattern is taken maybe you'll understand.

I didn't think it had been around that long. At least the magazine is still in existence.

My shame is complete when you see how close I was to finishing it.

About 15cm to the finish.

So with a visit to my very, very clever seamstress (Mummy dear) due I thought I'd dispose of it.

There will be 2 skeins of Rowan Tweed DK left over appx 240yds. Is that too thick or even not enough to knit a Monkey or would it have to be a Baby Gorilla?!

May even get a gift bag started.

One things for sure I will get a bottle of something Red started.

Enjoy your weekend.

A success I think

2008-01-29T07:00:00.000Z

Montego Bay is finished and I feel the need to show a few photos to try and do both the yarn and pattern justice.
I did wonder if the laciness of this pattern was me but as you can see it makes quite an un-lacy scarf also. The pattern makes it very stretchy so its surprisingly easy to mould and didn't require blocking.

The yarn is lovely, I have already said it is "cool" to knit with which I know Natalie wanted me to explain.........I know what I mean but its hard to describe. I often find when knitting with wool wool that my hands get very hot and breaks are required (sweaty palms some less polite would say), the Bamboo in this mean this is not the case and also mean that its not too warm a scarf for everyday wear. I have mentioned cotton string but that doesn't do the yarn justice.

Try it you'll like it.

Excuse the Double chin, very difficult photographing ones own neck!

I am feeling the need for a challenge, my enthusiasm for socks and scarves is on the wane. I think theres enough in stock.

So, what next, any suggestions?

Spring has Sprung

2008-01-25T07:08:00.000Z

Well these Tulips have anyway.

Guess I'll have to find replacements tomorrow.

Snow in April again? Maybe not for those of you in the North.

Knitting is unfinished at the moment but I am working on that.

Currently Loving: Yarn Yard Bamboo.

Currently hating: Eating sandwiches with a Knife and Fork!

Currently Reading: Little Face by Sophie Hannah

Currently listening to: Andrea Bocelli (still)

Currently Wearing (sockwise): Cornish Scallops, think I'll do some more of these.

Oxygen required Urgently

2008-01-22T11:31:00.000Z

I know I said I wouldn't mention this again and I promise this will be the last time.

My tooth quote has just increased 6 fold and it wasn't low to start with! I don't like the look of the pictures either, the booklet is entitled "How Dental Implants can change your life"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'll be on the streets soon.

With my wool of course.

Am consoling myself with Andrea.

Ooops!

2008-01-22T07:23:00.000Z

I said I intended finishing things, well I managed to finish one longstanding project. the Chevron Scarf is in the box.

The results of this pattern are good but it does become a bit tedious eventually. I am hopeful theres enough yarn left for a pair of socks. They will have to be Toe Up and stripey so don't expect them soon.

Did I say I wasn't casting anything else on, maybe I didn't voice it but that was my intention. Anyway the Friday (and Saturday) night project. Two cowls Green is Fyberspates and thinner due to lack of yardage but fine for my short neck! Bluey one is Natural Dye Studio. I may have mentioned my aversion to sewing, due mainly to having a seamstress in the family. so I knit the seam.

Just to ruin any promises I made, a Montego Bay Scarf in Yarn Yard Bamboo, strangely it is a cool yarn to knit with. You would have to try it to understand what I mean.

The Colour is SnowBlue and I have changed down to Lantern Moon 4mm needles which are actually nearer to 4.5mm.

Now you won't ever believe a word I say......

Finished

2008-01-18T07:00:00.000Z

Snowflake socks, not as neat as perhaps they could be but not bad for a first attempt.

January seems to be the month of starting things, last Saturday I knits this in Fyberspates yarn. On Sunday I frogged it because it would have never been big enough. Attempt 2 is this weekend with a bigger skein of Natural Dye Studio yarn.

Good Companions, this is my current travel kit. This year I am determined to get through the book mountain. So far so good, this is the second.

The scarf is this very simple pattern.

In lovely Yarn Yard Merino Chuckle.

I am going to attempt to get a couple of things finished this weekend, then I can start the Socktopus Sock Club socks.

Next books on the list.

Results!

2008-01-13T12:51:00.000Z

A piece of plain paper was found, well an envelope was dismembered.

7 names were written on individual segments. Then thrown into the Pensive (after it had been dusted!).

A passing, semi independent, Draw master turned his back on the bowl and drew out a piece of envelope. Looked very technical to me.

The Winner is.........Natalie

A book, which I hope you will enjoy, will be in the post to you later this week.

For the unlucky ones the next BAFAB week is in April but I hope you'll visit again before then.

WIP's or some of

2008-01-11T06:50:00.000Z

I am almost at the end of my final Secret mission in between times among others I am finishing off the second Snowflake sock, not one for the train. does anyone have a good solution to not having yarn requiring untwisting after every row?

This is my current train project, not very wise, there are days when I have only managed a few rows due to the concentration required and dropping stitches.

That little Scarf in Dream in colour Smooshy Ruby River.

The chevron scarf keeps getting a few rows

I really must stop reading Blogs, now want to knit a scarf along these lines with either of these.

Yarn Yard Merino the Blue is a club offering and the other Chuckle.

What do you think?

Finally, this is part of my dress today, I am eyeing up the sparkles for card making so it may not be long for this world. Now that's what I call recycling.

Sorry about the quality of photos, its grim here today.

And Finally (you hope)

2008-01-10T15:51:00.000Z

Thank you for your kind wishes on the tooth front.

I now hopefully have an abscess, I say hopefully because I may have a tooth that has cracked within the gum. I will bore you no more with these minor health irritations which involve me having to leave work early.

If you trust me to buy you a book enter the draw here

Knitting pics tomorrow, if wet indoors!

Teeth

2008-01-09T06:53:00.000Z

This is slightly long but I hope you'll find it amusing.

Monday as you may have already have read was interesting. Just to give you an idea of the pace of it!

Depart Brighton with lunch 05:49
Arrive St Pancras 07:16 (ish!)

Walk to office via Tesco, Purchase SOFT (and this is important) Bagel.
Arrive office around 07:30.

Take first bite of Bagel. Curse aforementioned supermarket because I think theres something hard in SOFT bagel. There was, my front tooth broken off to the gum. One of the 2 middle top teeth that show everytime you breath virtually.

Dentist not open til 09:00.
Finally get through and they offer 14:00 appointment.
Endure numerous comments about Shane McGowan etc and have lots of visits from people wanting smiles and funny looks from those who have to speak to me.
Distribute Apples as impossible to eat.

Depart Office with Lunch 11:20.
Depart St Pancras 11:40
Arrive Brighton 12:54.
Catch Bus home.
Arrive Home 13:30.

Shovel (you never know when your next meal may be after dentist appointment) part of my well travelled lunch in.
Clean Teeth.
Depart for Dentist 13:50.

Arrive Dentists, make receptionist smile (can't imagine why).
Enter Dentists room, smile.
Oh is the comment here.

Depart 14:30 with fake tooth and astronomical quote for full crown.

I am currently existing on rice, mashed potatoes and jam sandwiches cubed!

That's wool buying curtailed for the year..........but you can't live without your front tooth.

BAFAB or Buy a Friend a Book

2008-01-08T07:18:00.000Z

I am always pleased to see someone with a book, especially Children.

Can't say I have a proven formula for choosing good reads, it could be the title, the Cover or possibly the price! Certain people offer good encouragement. The main thing is I have to have a house full of them, its a comfort thing. Cookery, Gardening, Knitting, Crochet, Card making, Travel, Thrillers, Historic, Humour etc. we have a fair selection. One thing I do do is pass them on when read so someone else can have the pleasure that reading gives as well.

So for the first time I am officially joining in with offering a book for Buy a Friend a Book Week. Leave a comment on this post by midnight on Saturday 12th Jan if you wish to be included in the draw. I will endeavour to choose a suitable book for your enjoyment.

Oh No!

2008-01-07T07:46:00.000Z

One of my front teeth has just broken off.
How bonny will I look!
AND
I hate dentists.

Predictable as ever

2008-01-06T08:42:00.000Z

That's me. The mystery was of course a sock. I am in training for these though and I can feel the pull of this even though I don't do hats. I'm sure something this beautiful would be acceptable Office wear (so my very flat hair wouldn't be seen).

I'm quite impressed with these especially as they fit! Thought for a moment they were destined to be a Christmas Tree decoration.

I have taken so many pictures in the hope that you can make a pattern out on one of them!

Pattern: Snowflake Socks Interweave Knits Fall 2007

Yarns: The Knittery Merino in Moss and The Yarn Yard Sock yarn in Porage Oats

This is what they should look like.

P.S. Back to yesterdays post do you think we could lobby Emma Bridgewater to design a knitting related mug?

Happiness

2008-01-05T09:29:00.000Z

How True!

Deliveries

2008-01-04T06:40:00.000Z

What do you do when your husband is working nights and you are at home, go Internet shopping of course! Its perfect, or at least I think so.

I saw this yarn on Jane's blog and thought it ideal for the project she is using it for, which is on my never ending list.

Oxford Kitchen Yarns 4 ply BFL.

Sky, Stone and Willow

Next.

Posh Yarns Annual Sale.

Well it only happens once a year.

Helena 4 ply

Flaunt and Splash.

Finally.

Swapped with Lin for my last skein of Socks that Rock.

Dream in Colour Smooshy

Beach Fog

Can you tell what it is yet?

More on this tomorrow perhaps but do guess.

2008

2007-12-31T12:15:00.000Z

No resolutions this year and certainly no challenges, although I didn't do too bad with last years.

Instead a list of things I wish to master.

Crochet (yes that was on 2007 list)

Spinning (there are alot of enablers out there)

Colourwork

Patterns I have on my list are

Kyla - to finish. One picture with the flash and one without. Using Yarn Yard Glove Club yarn. I'm quite pleased as these are the first 4 ply mitts I have done, still 1 to go.

Queen of the Waves

Skin of the Sea

Shoalwater shawl

Miss Potter Mittens

Marvellous Mitts

These Mitts are a must although I may loose my sanity with them.

Lots from here

Many more (a whole folder full, plus books, plus the Internet. I think I may be kept busy!)

Happy, Happy New Year to all of you.

It would be nice to think I may get a chance to actually meet some of you in 2008.

Christmas

2007-12-30T12:00:00.000Z

As we were in York my photographer was killing time whilst I had my hair made presentable.

Strangely when I had presents to wrap there was another distraction, you may be interested!

I didn't manage alot of knitting but this is the WIP, Chevron scarf from Last Minute knitted Gifts. It is wrapped round a very nice Christmas card by Piglottie productions. I have been lucky enough to "meet" some very nice people through this blog some of whom I hope I can call friends.

2008 has to be the year I catch up with my book backlog or we will be buried under it! These are just the Christmas ones.

But my "favouritist" present was this. A child at heart that's me, is it bad that people know that?

Sock it to Me supplies

2007-12-29T20:11:00.000Z

These are the ones I can remember with some pattern links thrown in.

Yarns
Cherry Tree Hill
Colinette Jitterbug
Debbie Bliss Cashmerino (Bedsocks)
Fyberspates BFL
Fyberspates Alpaca
HipKnits Aran (Bedsocks)
Hipknits Merino
Hobbledehoy Merino.
Koigu
Lana Grossa Fantasy
Natural Dye Studio BFL
Piece of Beauty Sock (discontinued)
Posh Yarn Lucia
Posh Yarn Helena
Posh Yarn Laura
Posh Yarn Emily
Regia Bamboo
Schoeller & Stahl Fortissima
Socks That Rock Lightweight Sock
Sweet Georgia Handpainted Sock
The Yarn Yard Merino
The Yarn Yard Merino Tencel
The Yarn Yard Sock Yarn
Violet Green Socrates

Patterns
Monkey – January
Posh Yarn Cable rib – January/February

Jaywalker – July and February
Razorshell - February
Lichen - February

Cafe Curtains. - March

Central Air - March

Sensational Knitted Socks Baby Cable – March

Hedera – April

Pomatomus – May
Fybrespates Basic sock – May

Broadripple 4 ply - June
Crew Socks from Interweave Knits Summer 2007 edition – June
Colinette Jitterbug basic sock – July and June

Diamond Lace Socks - July

Vog On – August
Nasturtium - August
Cornish Scallop Socks – August

Broadripple DK - September
Seduction socks – September
Helter Skelter – September

Meida socks from Interweave Knits Favourite Socks. Page 69 - October
Bedsocks from Debbie Bliss Pure Cashmere – October
Kaibashira - October

Waving Lace from Interweave Knits Favourite Socks - November
Picot Edged – November and December

Titanias Revenge - December

Favourites

It would be both impossible and unfair to choose but some stars deserve a mention.
Jane - what a clever lady, I still have 3 of your patterns to knit up.
Natalie Mrs Yarn Yard - beautiful colours and excellent service.
Posh Yarns - such variety.
Cookie A whose patterns I have both enjoyed and hated at times but are very well written.
Both Knitty and Magknits are very good pattern sources, my bulging folder bears testement to that.

Finally, I may be the only one, but I have decided that I don't like Socks That Rock.......thats probably alienated you all. The colours are fabulous but for some strange reason (and you should know how strange I am by now) I don't like knitting with it.

Nice to have known you all!

Sock it to Me - December 2007 The END

2007-12-29T10:20:00.001Z

This months offerings are Picot edged socks in Sweet Georgia Black Orchid.

Titania's Revenge in Socks That Rock Lightweight Lagoon, very difficult to photograph. This is not a pattern for the feint hearted, it takes far too much concentration for my liking.

A close up of the mock cable that winds round from the heel flap to the toe!

So a great weight has been lifted from my shoulders, I have finished my sock challenge. 41 pairs in 12 months (almost 3.5 pairs a month), I do have enough sock yarn to knit 3 more years worth I think! First a rest, although for train travel I think I will have to resort back to socks although there won't be any deadlines to meet. Also I received 2 copies of this for Christmas and it would be rude not to try some of the designs out.

I have also joined the Socktopus Sock Club and the first parcel arrived just before we departed for the North. Its looking like money well spent.

Will be adding a huge list of patterns etc. when I can.

Signing Off

2007-12-18T19:24:00.001Z

A Very Happy Christmas.

I hope you all have a relaxing time.

Back for New Year.

Two Weeks to Go

2007-12-11T07:00:00.000Z

I think I have finished the present knitting, don't anyone dare remind me if I haven't!

Forest Canopy in Yarn Yard Sock Yarn. Do I really have to give it away?

Schaeffer Elaine.

Can't say too much about this but I am impressed at how it transformed what was a gloomy looking skein of yarn. I'd like to keep this too!

I also finished my Clapotis, which I think may be needed in the frozen North over Christmas, and the Cable and Lace scarf which is just awaiting an attack from the iron.

Not much housework but that's what happens when your birthday is in December, you can't dust because of Birthday cards and they then get replaced by Christmas cards......result. We'll be knee deep by January 6th.

Busy day in the Smoke

2007-12-08T10:32:00.000Z

I travel to London for work 3 days a week, it used to be 5. So you can imagine that we don't like going up there on our days off. However if we have to we like to make a full day of it.

On Thursday we had our trip to the British Museum booked.

As it was for 16:30 it was dark outside, these pictures are of the outside of the Museum Reading Room which has been commandeered for the Exhibition. This is fabulous in itself especially when its lit up. If you get chance go, I can't show you any photos because cameras are banned but its well worth a visit.

Prior to this, even though it was precipitating heavily most of the time we fitted in a visit to Tate Modern to investigate the Crack in the Floor. That's art for you!

AND St Pancras International, yes, I know its a Station and therefore has trains. Its an occupational hazard. The place is unbelievable compared to what it had become in recent years.

Sir John Betjeman

The Meeting Place

Most importantly Europe's longest Champagne Bar on the upper level behind and beside the Tree. Doing a roaring trade, well we did have to rest our feet and it is Christmas.

Boy did these ache.

Have a good weekend.

Birthday bits

2007-12-04T07:05:00.000Z

Thanks for the Good Wishes. Knitters are such nice sorts.

Saturday was my Birthday, the first day of Advent (Calendars). I say this because I think that's why I think December 1st a good day to have a Birthday, its a childhood thing!

Have I ever mentioned I like bags, all the time my husband says as they follow the wool stash out of cupboards.

He didn't fail me.

Waterproof and big enough for a larger project than a sock.

I have very big ideas of making up a sock pattern for myself, next year of course. For this of course you require yarn......I was very lucky to grab some of the Sock Hop from Crown Mountain Farms in their last sale.

From Left to Right, Mustang Sally, I Believe in Magic and Crazy Love.

Sock it to me - November 2007

2007-12-04T06:59:00.000Z

Plain Picot edged

Yarn: Violet Green Socrates.

Waving Lace (Interweave Knits Favourite Socks)

Yarn : Posh Lucia (Watermelon)

So I am up to 39, you wouldn't think it a problem to reach 40. However I give you Titanias Revenge.

These could well be my undoing!

Another one

2007-12-02T11:36:00.001Z

So thats another Birthday been and gone, now for Christmas.

There is one person who is so glad he is at work today!

I am very sad but I love December.

Focus

2007-11-30T07:02:00.000Z

Our social calendar has been quite full this week, more next week aswell. Most unusual for December in Yorkie land.

So my knitting has been confined to trains and therefore socks, just for a change. Recently I have been asked on 3 separate occasions what I was knitting. once by a 5ish year old, once by the Turkish gentleman train guard and once by a Spanish chap. Both men said they liked to see sock knitting because their mothers used to do it. Wonders will never cease.

Forest Canopy

Yarn: Yarn Yard Sock club.

So the Christmas knitting has slowed somewhat, I don't think this was helped by the fact that I've almost knit myself 3 scarves in the meantime.

Debbie Bliss Cable and Lace scarf from Pure Cashmere.

Yarn: Wensleydale Longwool Aran

What I am itching to do is mitts, not gloves because the fingers drive me mad.

This is not helped by this gorgeous arrival.

Yarn Yard Glove club yarn, just delicious.

Finally here's a giggle for you, my Camper shoes bought from the outlet in Majorca. Don't know why they were reduced. There are many theories mainly regarding the tadpoles. I will say no more and hope none of you understand this or you will stop reading my blog!

Out to lunch at The Grand (Eastbourne) tomorrow.

Have a lovely Christmas shopping free weekend.

Peak Week

2007-11-27T07:01:00.000Z

Lots of pictures to bore you!

Snow fell in the village, but we'd already done some shopping at the potteries. And found the stash of coal for the Pyromaniac to hone his fire building skills.

Whilst aforementioned Pyromaniac entertained himself looking for quarries and trains, better not ask, we were dispatched to Manchester for the Day. First hiccup was cancelled train but I have travelled by train too long to let that affect me.

Christmas Market around the Town Hall, don't you think inflated Santa looks like a Simpson character?

Ben Sherman thought a window of wobbling Turkey was festive, we agreed although you can't get the wobble on a photo!

I rather liked the look of this among all the modern architecture. We then wandered the Food Hall of Selfridges BUT did not invest in either of these. Although the Gin would have been welcome to steady my nerves among the crowds.

I did my bit of spotting on the way home, not usually trains but I happened to have my camera handy. Eddie saves my sanity on any journey we do North as I am not a good passenger on busy roads.

Panic ye not I haven't joined the other side, there will be knitting again.
XX

Houston we have a problem

2007-11-23T16:02:00.000Z

Just arrived back from Derbyshire. Survived the M1 again. Despite some drivers best attempts, what is their rush?

Pattern: Clapotis

Yarn Middleearth Knitter Worsted

Colour: Offshore

4 skeins

Not enough.

Gutted.

As I was away from a computer had to resort to.

and

Thankfully there's more yarn on the way.

Will fill you in next week, enjoy your weekend.

This weekend

2007-11-09T07:00:00.000Z

I will mostly be avoiding Model Railway Shows, where I normally help serve refreshments (you surely didn't think I played with Trains did you). Providing sustenance for the Train crank (ordering a Takeaway on Saturday night) AND going to see my favourite show with the Ex-pat who is landing tonight.

Sometime back I found this from my first visit to see Les Miserables, inside were our tickets. Out of the five original theatre group members only two of us thought this show worth further visits. I am approaching double figures but I did start in 1988.

Needless to say our tickets were slightly dearer than this, but its a birthday treat and more importantly its Les Miserables.

Cakes are ready for dispatch with the addition of Tiffin.

Knitting is still socks but my bag is packed for our little break, its looking a bit blue for me and optimistic! Forest Canopy, Clapotis, socks and Cable Scarf, that lot may just interfere with leaving the cottage.

Pond Soup

2007-11-04T12:29:00.001Z

I like green!

We had a surplus of Carrots this week so Carrot and Ginger soup but there was a bag of Spinach and some Curly Kale begging to be used, hey presto Pond Soup. I liked it.

Cakes all made and in the freezer in readiness for this (but don't hold it against me I'll be watching Les Miserables in London). The Chocolate and Beetroot and Banana Bread are Dairy Free and for a week in the Peak District with the intolerant one later this month.

Bakehouse Beauties?

2007-11-02T07:00:00.000Z

Before I forget Halloween was unusually successful, only had to relinquish 2 bags of Haribo and that was in exchange for 2 pieces of cake. I'd personally call that a huge success.

Now onto saner things.

Posh Yarn Lucia

Colour: Watermelon

Interweave Knits Favourite Socks

Evelyn A. Clark's Waving Lace (Page 105)

Apart from this I will be tied to the kitchen this weekend after a quick trip to Lewes Farmers Market and Waitrose. Baking Victoria, Chocolate and Coffee sponges. Chocolate Beetroot Cake if these people deliver my Beetroot. Nigella's Banana Bread. Delia's Christmas Pudding in mini forms. Finally Gordon Ramsay's Malaysian Chicken Curry to shovel in whilst watching Strictly! Lets hope the right couple go out on Sunday.

With that I'm all linked out!

Enjoy your weekend XX

Sock it to me - October 2007

2007-10-31T18:26:00.000Z

6 Pairs.

1 involving a cable needle

Meida socks from Interweave Knits Favourite Socks. Page 69

Yarn: Posh Yarn Emily

Colour: Latte
An easy knit, much to my surprise.

2 Pairs of Bedsocks for the infirm.

Pattern from Debbie Bliss Pure Cashmere.

First Pair knit in Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran which was much cheaper and is still very soft. Took 2 complete balls for the Large size.

Second Pair in some bargain Aran I picked up from Hipknits at Ally Pally, these took 4 balls as they were only 25grams.

Finally
3 secrets!

Keep your fingers crossed I have escaped Trick or Treaters so Far, the Haribo will be mine.

8 Weeks

2007-10-30T14:00:00.000Z

First of the puddings (started steaming at 04:55 this morning), yes, I am mad. I usually use Delias recipe but this year have given this one a try, smells good so far.

A few gifts on the side, the top one was rustled up whilst I watched Rebus very early this morning.

Strictly another scarf

2007-10-29T19:34:00.000Z

Manos del Uruguay 100% wool

Shade: 6927

Pattern: One Row Handspun Scarf

One day I'll progress to grown up knitting!

Post photos galore!

2007-10-26T07:00:00.000+01:00

My work phone rang yesterday and the following conversation was had.

The Boss aka Mr Yorkie: You have 4 bags of wool.
Innocent me: are you sure?
MY: Theres a Blue one, you've had one of those before. Theres one from Cambridge.
Me: Thats a Cardigan, it doesn't count.
MY: humph, theres one from Yorkshire.
Me: Thats a swap, still doesn't count.
MY: Oh hang on this last one from Australia isn't wool it says Yarn.
Me: See you later Alligator!

Exhibit A. in the Postal saga, posted 15/10 First Class in bonnie Scotland (but not the remote bit!). Yarn Yard Sock Yarn on Blue Jeans and Parfait, delicious. The Blue Jeans is because I thought it might be better to tone down my sock wear for work......not.

Exhibit B. posted 16/10 in Australia, slightly more South than Scotland! The Knittery Warm Pinks Cashmere Merino Sock yarn. This is lovely yarn and $5 for each skein sold will be donated to Breast Cancer organisations. I would have bought it regardless, you may have noticed I'm a sucker for Pinks.

Both arrived yesterday, so that's 11 days from Scotland and 10 from Australia. Is it a wonder Royal Mail are losing business.

Finally a package that was crammed with yarn I had swapped via Ravelry with Piglottie firstly the one I was expecting Sweet Georgia Speed Demon in Black Orchid which is impossible to photograph.

AND a very very nice surprise of Skein Queen Plushness in Foxglove.

This only took 3 days, not bad for 1st class.........what is the point in paying the extra nowadays.

Anyway the arrival of these packages has stopped me filling shopping carts across the net, at least for a few days.

Post

2007-10-25T07:57:00.001+01:00

Don't talk to me about post.

I am hoping that we can't open the door tonight because all my lovely parcels have arrived......not holding my breath though. So anyone, and I know of a few, who has sent me a package I will let you know when they eventually emerge from the depths of the Post Office.

Watch this space.

Edited 14:50: Oooops DH has called and there are 4 parcels....1 from East Yorkshire.xx

Its a secret.

2007-10-16T07:00:00.000+01:00

Its very difficult not discussing the project you are working on, especially if you like the yarn or pattern. I am in love with Hand Maiden Seasilk, but don't tell anybody.

My no concentration or some may say Strictly Come Dancing project is the My So Called Scarf which is almost there, may manage completion tonight. The yarn is much softer than I expected and the pattern, despite its simplicity, is very effective although the camera has trouble coping with the colour. It not quite as pink as it looks.

Now what to do with the other 13 skeins

I'm thinking this for some of the green.

Thanks for the sock size comments by some miracle I appear to have got the right size......time will tell.

The SIL bed sock wearer is in a lot less pain after the op but it will be a slow job. Her next op is to remove the socks, I am going to knit more in Pink which she never wears! That'll be a test.

Vital statistics

2007-10-15T18:07:00.000+01:00

Piece of Beauty Merino in Old School (sadly this is now discontinued)

I love maths, but since leaving school many, many moons ago I don't have call for any of the fancy stuff.

You may have noticed that I like knitting socks. Size 4 socks or at a push size 3 (thanks Mum). My FIL keeps suggesting I go up to size 11, dream on. DH just moans about the yarn mountain so he won't be getting any size 10's. So far so good. Now I have recently decided to knit for gifts and they all have, by my standards huge feet!

Would someone please tell me how long to knit the foot before the toe shaping for a size 6 and also the overall foot length, please. I commandeered a colleague for the size 7 Bed Socks last week but don't know a size 6 well enough to ask.

Mainly For Kerrie

2007-10-12T09:30:00.001+01:00

And they thought it would never be done.

So did I!

How convenient that the previous workshop dropped just enough beads, yes I was the one under the table.

Don't you just know that that button will be required soon.

Forgot to mention the book I acquired from Socktopus, Alice only had 1 copy. Lucky I was early. Haven't opened it yet as it is being stored for December, can't think whats happening then.

Off to see Frankie Boyle tomorrow night with a box of tissues, I know he won't be everyones taste but we find him amusing.

Enjoy your weekend.

Good or Bad

2007-10-11T17:02:00.000+01:00

Potentail Flower, knit on a Learning Curve class with Kerrie, that was fun!

Have returned from my solo adventrue. How civilised are knitters, met quite a few people including Kerrie, Jo(who has volunteered to teach me to spin!).

As I predicted Socktopus got the Lions share of my budget, what a brill idea this was. Also bought from Hipknits, Touch Yarns, Fyberspates, Colinette, Aragon Yarns, Kangaroo and Laughing Hens. Some were only needles but I did get yarn aswell in places. If you're going I can recommend newcomers Aragon and Touch Yarns.

HipKnits bargain bag 10 balls of what I think is aran for £10.

Colinette Jitterbug in Dusk and Fire and now with 291 metres.

Touch Yarns 100% Merino DK.

Dream in Colours Smooshy in Cloud Jungle and Blue Lagoon.

Fyberspates Scrumptious DK in Blue Lagoon (notice a theme here).

Off to chill out at Pilates now. What a life I lead!

Defeat is imminant

2007-10-09T10:24:00.000+01:00

I think I have to admit defeat about Thursday.

Socktopus is now going and I have filled my shopping cart so many times in recent days that its a foregone conclusion that I will be buying. Crystal Palace DPNs, Dream in Colour Smooshy, Chameleon Colurworks Evolution and Shelridge Farm Ultra look promising already.

All this is in the interest of Market Research of course, I need to test all sock yarns available and DPNs.

Back to casting on 187, yes 187, stitches for a sock! Its only the fourth time.

And for Daisie this is Sarah with her bag attachment.

Good Companions

2007-10-07T09:00:00.001+01:00

Just for fun.

This is Frank who bounces along on my rucksack.

Sarah, who gets thrown around on my handbag.

Both of these are very well behaved Monkeys but I am about to introduce another, who looks like he may be trouble!

Tolga, mobile charm.

I'm not one for these sort of things but I do like Kipling Monkeys and they are usually attached to the bags when you buy them anyway. This one was just too cute despite his angry face to leave behind at £3.

Summer Sky challenge today, which involves short rows. Wish me luck.

Emergency

2007-10-05T08:02:00.001+01:00

My So Called Scarf in Manos Del Uruguay, what soft yarn this is.

Thankfully received my guide for Ally Pally before "Sue" and her colleagues joined the picket line. Have marked up the avoiding route so will not be seen at:

Get Knitted
Fyberspates
Hipknits
COLINETTE
Cherry Tree Hill
Purlescence
The Natural dye Studio
Kangaroo
Artesano
UK Alpacas
Knitwitches
21st Century Yarns

You get the idea. Unfortunately there are 2 plans in this guide and I may accidentally use the uncensored version! If you are there I'm the munchkin with the huge rucksack and a very flushed face, don't let me near these stands.

On the Emergency side of things my SIL has finally got a date for her back surgery, Monday, 8th October. So I had to rustle these up rather sharpish. Thankfully Get Knitted didn't fail me, yarn and pattern arrived Wednesday and I finished them this morning.

Debbie Bliss Bed socks from the Pure Cashmere pattern book. I knit them in Cashmerino Aran as the Pure Cashmere would have made them £40! This Duck Egg colour is one of my favourites. Took 2 balls, just, and used 4.5mm needles. Think I may try and copy the pattern into a pair of "normal" socks for me in the Wensleydale wool I got a while back.

Before I neglect my duties, the Macaroni was delicious.

Have a good weekend

12 weeks and 1 down

2007-10-02T07:00:00.000+01:00

In its entirety it looks good, see Ravelry if you can.

Completed during Nigella last night. Might just have to make some of that Rocky Road.

A Delia special for Dinner. Macaroni Au Gratin

I'm sure it won't look like this but who cares as long as it tastes as good.

Sock it to me - September 2007

2007-10-01T19:10:00.000+01:00

Broadripple in Yarn Yard 100% Organic Merino. I love this yarn and it was perfect for this pattern, it is thicker than 4 ply but so soft.

Seduction Socks in Yarn Yard Merino Tencel. Another very nice yarn which has a lovely sheen and would suit shawls and scarves as well.

A close up of the leg detail. As these socks are supposed to be for lounging they look very smart in this yarn.

Fyberspates 100% Alpaca Sock wool. The pattern is Helter Skelter which came with the yarn as part of the sock club. Through no fault of the yarn or the pattern I seriously disliked these socks. Not the knitting of them, that was easy. The first one was finished and I usually try them for size after the toes have been kitchenered. Couldn't get the first one on so I undid the 2.5" of Rib, not advisible. I then knit a rolled cuff on 3.25mm needles. Still they didn't fit.

So there could have been a pair of socks up for grabs!

They looked lovely blocking and I have now tried one on and it does fit although they are now in the present heap.

Coffee morning.

2007-09-28T07:01:00.000+01:00

And Coffee!

Very, very hard colour to photograph. Posh Yarns Emily Latte.

Interweave Knits Favourite Socks Meida by Nancy Bush (page 69)

Cable, can you see how tight they are, thankfully they are part of a 72 stitch sock.

It just happened! Posh Yarn Emily x 4.

Yearn, Mist, Languish and Haiku

Ally Pally

2007-09-27T07:00:00.000+01:00

2 weeks today.

Better raid a bank or someones wallet!

Have fought with 5 x 2.25mm DPNS and a cable needle this morning on the train. Won't be doing that again.

Scraps

2007-09-25T15:15:00.000+01:00

NOT the ones you get with your Fish and Chips, maybe thats a Northern thing?

Michaela has asked if anyone would like to donate 4" squares knitted from 4ply sock yarn towards a blanket, which she will sew together and then raffle for Olivers Fund.

As you may know, I knit socks. So I have lots of little balls of yarn that I don't know what to do with, or don't wish to do anything with.

So what better cause.

Mountain of Manos

2007-09-24T19:05:00.000+01:00

Manos Del Uruguay 100% Wool

I want to knit one of these.

Which takes 2 skeins!

Do you think I have enough?

Don't look at this on an empty stomach

2007-09-20T17:55:00.000+01:00

A certain person in this house has been having a clear out, he is now at work so can't be berated for this find. I have much, much, much smaller glasses now, really, I think these could make 4 of my current ones. In fact I think these are actually car windscreens. I have also realised the error of frilly blouses!

Circa 1989 so I don't mind you seeing this one.

Sorry but another little rant, Short Row heels. Yes, I don't learn and have tried again. In fact I am very proud of these which I started and finished on my journey home.

The problem is the join back onto the foot.....how big was that hole. Am now going to spend the next hour trying to find a solution then they get a proper heel flap.

Pay It Forward Exchange

2007-09-20T08:18:00.000+01:00

I've been reading about the Pay It Forward exchange on a few blogs, and have signed up on Gilraen's blog. Here's the deal:

It’s the Pay It Forward Exchange. It’s based on the concept of the movie “Pay it Forward” where acts or deeds of kindness are done without expecting something in return, just passing it on, with hope that the recipients of the acts of kindness are passed on. You all know I’m already a PIF type of person. So here’s how it works. I will make and send a handmade gift to the first 3 people who leave a comment to this post on my blog requesting to join this PIF exchange. I do not know what that gift will be yet, and it won’t be sent this month, probably not next month, but it will be sent (within 6 months) and that’s a promise! What YOU have to do in return, then, is pay it forward by making the same promise on your blog.

My usual readers appear to be signed up so if there is anyone else out there interested you are more than welcome.

Cup of Tea?

2007-09-19T18:12:00.001+01:00

Clapotis to be precise.

I am one step closer, yarn has just been delivered from this lovely Etsyite.

4 Skeins of 100% Merino Worsted weight yarn in Offshore. Dyed especially for me, what service. Free stitchmarkers too although I believe more than 4 will be needed for this project!

I am surely the last person to do one of these, the pattern is from 2004. May be a few weeks before cast on but I hope to get it done this side of Christmas. Ooops mentioned that word.

14 Weeks and Counting

2007-09-18T12:29:00.000+01:00

I won't upset you too much by mentioning the C word but I have just checked my diary and we have 1 weekend where we aren't committed to something before the event. Makes us sound popular but most of those are taken up by someone working, not me I'll be knitting.

On the knitting front I can't show too much, but its started.

Purple Cornish Pasties anyone, do you remember the Clarks shoes that looked like these, Polyveldts?

Not a Tissue box cover.

They remind me of frogs as well. Require a bit of washing.

I'm sure you've got it now but the final clue is its a Fiber Trends pattern using Cascade 220 yarn DOUBLE. How quick to knit.

And another, which is slightly more obvious. Twilleys Freedom Spirit in Fire. I am loving the River John Commuter Needles for travelling

Book in advance

2007-09-17T12:40:00.000+01:00

As its highly unlikely that you'd get me on a plane to China, let alone an internal flight to see these we have booked, for 6th December, to see the travellers at the British Museum.

That's the birthday sorted, can't wait.

Tonight I am loitering in London after work and eating here

you need to read about it to know

its not quite as bad as it looks and sounds, I hope!

Merino Tencel

2007-09-14T07:24:00.000+01:00

The Seduction socks are almost complete. These pictures actually show the colour as it is, it has proved very difficult getting a tru representation.

The pattern has been very easy to pick up. The yarn has a lovely sheen and is very soft on the hands. I think it would be more suited to 2.5mm needles or less to improve its lifespan but these socks are supposed to be for lounging in, not that I know anyone who does that.
My main problem is the last few socks I have knit have been Yarn Yard Merino or Posh Yarn Emily which are much thicker than the Merino Tencel. Overall I think its the sort of yarn for a treat as it looks and feels silky.

Now onto another of my pastimes that gets neglected, until there is some urgency.

This is a pending event so I had to get moving.

Tomorrow I am going craft shopping, although I don't need anything......much.

Happy Weekend.

P.S. I appear to have lost my stashalong counter, it wasn't anything to do with me. Honest. Does that mean its over?

Practice may make perfect.

2007-09-11T11:43:00.000+01:00

I am usually ashamed by the quality of my photographs, I sometimes manage almost in focus but other bloggers put me to shame. I need to confess here to the beach pictures being taken by DH who apart from anything else has something more flash than a point and shoot camera.

So I felt a little practice was called for, and you dear readers are the guinea pigs.

Still a long way to go I think. This is one of my projects that isn't a sock and therefore gets forgotten.

Pattern: Fishtail Lace Scarf
Yarn: Blue Sky Alpaca Sport, 3 skeins
Colour: a very lovely Chocolate IMHO!
Needles: Brittany 3.5mm

Weekend Report

2007-09-10T19:50:00.000+01:00

I didn't want to let you down, freshly cooked.

My sisters latest production, she has cupboards full of homemade produce and very nice it is too.

A Dragonfly, sadly dead, that I met on my walk from the bus.

Atonement

Fabulous, but then I have read the book and was prepared for it not being one of your run of the mill films. There were about 15 of us in the cinema.

Look at the colour of that dress. I now have the book on my present list.

Seduction Socks, I had to fold over the title whilst travelling so people didn't get the wrong idea! If I hadn't stopped to read I think I'd have finished a sock.

Panic

2007-09-07T07:25:00.000+01:00

I am almost up to the charts for Summer Sky and panic is starting to set in. Not because I have to read charts but that they have Short Rows on them......think this will be one to study and study again when I have time.

Back to socks and perhaps a few Christmas presents.

After

A weekend of eating F and C, well once.
A weekend of being beautified, Hair Cut. Its needed.
A weekend of eating home made cakes, don't you just love mothers.
Possibly a visit to Sheepish in The Shambles, York.
Hopefully a visit to the cinema to see Atonement.

This weekends project is Seduction Socks, what a name. In Yarn Yard Merino/Tencel.

Will sign off now, and leave you with something else that is worrying me. Steeks, what on earth?

Busy Winter ahead

2007-09-06T10:39:00.000+01:00

Interweave Knits Fall 2007 edition

In search of perfection

2007-09-04T10:10:00.000+01:00

A bit of light heartedness to entertain you.

We live in Brighton although not next to the sea.....where the fish live.

August Bank Holiday saw us at Camber Sands and although we ate fish they weren't accompanied by chips.
Where is everyone.....relatively clear beach and dunes.
It was quite warm.

Last weekend. After a very concerned husband bought me a new hairdryer, I think secretly he didn't want to be seen out with me! We made the Isle of Wight, sadly the restaurant didn't ring so we bussed it to The Needles Battery. No fish here.

Alum Bay with its coloured Sands.

Next weekend I will be winging my way North and will finally get the Fish and Chips to beat all. These are to be found in a village high on the Wolds miles from the sea but the freshest I have tasted. Wetwang here we come.....now isn't that a name to conjure with!

Knitting wise, if you're interested. I am battling with this in Rowan California Cotton. As you may have noticed I am usually knitting socks so the 300+ stitches on my needles are taking a bit of getting through.

Sock it to Me - August 2007

2007-09-02T10:30:00.001+01:00

Pattern: Vog On

Yarn: Piece of Beauty Sock (discontinued)

Colour: Seat by the Fire

Pattern: Nasturtium Sock Look down the sidebar.

Yarn: Posh Yarn Emily

Colour: Kerpow!

Pattern: Cornish Scallop Sock Look down the sidebar.

Yarn: Posh Yarn Lucia Sock

Colour: Twinkle

New Arrivals

2007-08-31T11:50:00.001+01:00

I am a self confessed Bagaholic, these may not be fashion but they ultimately help a good cause. And are much smarter than carrier bags, without the advertising! Well I think so anyway.

From here.

Major Catastrophe

2007-08-31T08:50:00.000+01:00

My Hairdryer is deceased.

Will have to stay indoors and knit.......shame.

A finished item, the Moebius cowl in Posh Yarns Sophia 4ply. I have made this deeper than the previous ones I've knit but the yarn is so soft it is disguised well. It is very loosely based on the pattern.

Should have cleaned the mirror first!

Next the start of something new, Broadripple socks in Yarn Yard Merino, this colourway was one of the Merino club offerings. I am using my Knitpicks DPNS, didn't think I'd be a convert to metal but they will save me alot of stress not to mention the Brittany's that I keep breaking. I also invested in the Options as Get Knitted had them as well.....who could resist.

Finally, yes, I have been watching Rick Stein's Mediterranean Escapes and have loved every programme but won't be looking for too many Eels to cook. We have invested in this, love our local bookshop Sussex Stationers.

New Hairdryer permitting we may venture to the Isle of Wight tomorrow, we are on the cancellation list! Or Oxford has been mentioned.......but then again we may find ourselves in Cambridge or on the Thames in London. Who knows!

Have a good weekend.

Not much knitting but alot of recommendations

2007-08-28T14:06:00.000+01:00

What a relaxing weekend.

This will either interest or bore you. Little bit of knitting news at the end.

We ate here, excellent.

Ate this and this and this.

Can recommend these

Marks and Spencer Pecorino, not cheese.

McGuigan Traminer Riesling, we don't refuse any of their wines except Chardonnay but that's a personal thing.

A couple of our favourite English, we are lucky enough to live near a few vineyards down here and try to drink English when we can because the Whites and Roses are equally as good as any other countries offerings.

Three Choirs Rose.

Chapel Down Bacchus

No we aren't alcoholics, just sociable!

Phew, back to knitting.

SomePosh Yarn Sophia 4ply in Woodpecker and a Moebius Cowl for me.

Debbie Bliss concerns

2007-08-22T13:36:00.000+01:00

This has just arrived, despite leaving Get Knitted on the 8th.

Apart from not needing anymore yarn this is drawing me to it. BUT and there are huge buts here. I can do cables, very neat cables, very TIGHT cables. Therefore any cabled item I have knit on a large scale usually fits a teenager, not me. Debbie Bliss has also seen fit to make the largest size not very large so I can compensate for this.

However since my last cable fiasco I have had both my Carpal Tunnels released, do you think this may help or was it probably the cabling that caused it, that and clearing a scrubland that is now our garden!

I'll keep studying it and knitting socks. I do like a challenge.

This is my last ramblings of the week, we have a Yorkie invasion tonight, and the rest of the week will be spent sipping some Red, White or perhaps Rose liquid as well as eating too much.

Have a nice weekend one and all.

Flapjack Fiasco

2007-08-20T19:26:00.001+01:00

Or The Good, The Bad and The Ugly!

Firstly, The Good, I live in hope. Flapjack part 2.

The Bad. Posh Yarn Helena in Crisp and Amazon. I do hope I didn't snaffle either from you kind people who take the time to comment on my ramblings.

The Ugly. I'm told it makes nice cereal, from someone who requires alot of sugar!

My fears were realised, didn't help that a certain person used a spoon to lever the pieces out........ Added: This IS Sundays Flapjack (sorry, I always assume peoples minds work like mine).

Out of the Cupboard

2007-08-19T18:04:00.001+01:00

In time for 18:00 unfortunately!

This is what comes of your cookery books being at the bottom of these for 3 months.

Nigella's Flapjack, I hope it comes out of the pan OK.

Damp Lemon and Almond Cake, has to go into hiding for 2 days to make it damp!

Watched Harry Potter last night, which will help the non readers of the household when we eventually see the Order of the Phoenix. Will keep you posted on the others, I think The Last King of Scotland will take a bit of concentrating.

Relax

2007-08-18T11:28:00.000+01:00

Last weekends produce included Green and Blacks Courgette and Chocolate Loaf. Nigella's Moist Dense Chocolate Loaf and her delicious Brownies with the addition of Macadamia nuts and Cranberries. Pride and Prejudice was brilliant, even without Colin Firth, just the right amount of tears. Isn't that the sign of a good film?

This weekends activities, at least the interesting ones involve the following.

Viewing at least one of these. I have very varied tastes!

Studying this.

And hopefully finishing the second of these.

YPF - Confession time!

2007-08-17T08:01:00.001+01:00

So when I say I'm on a stashalong, I obviously don't understand the theory behind it!
Posh Emily - Shadow
Posh Emily - Majestic

Posh Sophia 4ply - Copse

Posh Sophia 4ply - Woodpecker. This is much more vibrant than the picture shows.

Posh Lucia Sock club for August - Dunes

I am going back in my cupboard on Sunday.

To brighten your day

2007-08-14T16:27:00.000+01:00

Nasturtium Socks.

Posh Yarn Emily Kerpow! What a colour.

Cornish Scallops Socks, the start of. This is linked on the side panel of Jane's blog

Posh Yarn Lucia Serendipity. I liked in the skein then in the cake and now as a sock, that's the sign of a good yarn.

And as this seems popular at the moment. I appear to be in good company.

Which Hogwarts house will you be sorted into?

Your in-depth results are:

Hufflepuff - 14

Ravenclaw - 11

Slytherin - 9

Gryffindor - 8

What does your weekend hold?

2007-08-11T06:18:00.000+01:00

05:30 Saturday - very dewy outside, still and beautiful.

Our decorating is complete, only 5 months! So I should be doing exciting things like dusting BUT I will be spending most of today in the company of some good authors. Nigella and Green and Blacks.

With some top ingredients, Divine Dark Chocolate. Yes it will all be used.

And this, no prizes but guess if you like.

Then, I shall be curling up with this and a glass of something. Not corporation pop.

And continuing with the knitting of this lovely.

Enjoy your weekend.

Wollmeise Yarn

2007-08-08T11:47:00.000+01:00

This is some loveliness I managed to sneak in before my stashalong, although it wasn't delivered til after it started.

Lace in Tiefer See. 1740 yards 300g and 27 Euros. Destined to be a Shoalwater shawl.

Sample set of approx 40 mini skeins. 21 Euros. All individually labelled.

Absolutely gorgeous yarn and service you couldn't fault in any way.

All from Wollmeise

Resolutions revisited

2007-08-07T09:38:00.000+01:00

So we are over halfway through the year and I thought it time to review these.

1) losing weight - I'm sure on the hottest days this may have happened, just not measurable!

Now for the more realistic ones

2) Take more exercise - Pilates classes start 4th January. - Summer break but I have been going religiously and happen to quite like Pilates. Much more sensible than Aerobics!

3) Knitting wise: Knit some Lace and clear some of the sock yarn stash (one day I may admit to how much I have in stock!). A bit of mischief, encourage my very strict SIL to knit more than one thing at a time. - Can't have everything. I have knit lace, my lovely SIL with the very bad back has admitted to having more than 1 project on the go, xx. Sock yarn stash, I now realise how unrealistic that was.

4) Learn to crochet - volunteer already secured. - When we find the time and it involves aforementioned SIL.

5) Improve my card making skills, the people I encouraged are better than me now. - Knitting has taken over although I do send handmade cards to the ones who appreciate then, rather like knitting.

6) Reduce my Christmas present list. Especially the biscuit buyers. - Biggest success although not in the nicest circumstances, least said.

7) Make more time to enjoy friends. - The good ones are always there for you

8) Try to post more often on this blog. - I've done better than I expected, probably bored a few of you and let my husband know more than is good for him. Have made a few "blog" friends though which made it worth the effort. I am always surprised by the power of the Internet.

9) Join a Knitalong and hopefully a swap. - 2 knitalongs and 1 swap.

Overall not bad for someone who doesn't usually do resolutions.

Sock it to me - July 2007

2007-08-06T18:45:00.001+01:00

Finally, 3 pairs.

Jaywalkers in Regia Bamboo

Colinette Jitterbug label pattern, colour Velvet Bilberry.
Diamond Lace Socks in Hobbledehoy Merino.

We tried

2007-08-03T07:46:00.000+01:00

Went to see Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix last night.

Suffered.
30 minutes of adverts.

People eating their dinner in the cinema, what makes them do it? Can you tell I'm not impressed.

Watched.
Approximately 1 hour of the film before the POWER CUT........it was good what we saw!

On the knitting front I have been a bit flighty.

Mystery Stole3 to the end of clue4.

Knit 2 Together Luxe Neckwarmer in Hipknits Chunky Cashmere. Very, Very fast knit even in 70 degree heat!

I had to have it!

2007-08-02T14:04:00.000+01:00

From here.

Its just me......does that have you worried?

The Weekend

2007-07-31T10:15:00.000+01:00

Pattern: Vog On

Yarn: Piece of Beauty Sock Yarn.

Colour: Seat by the Fire.

Very, Very quick to knit. I did this one on 2 train journeys with a few hours added for good measure.

Over the weekend I managed a trip to the Wensleydale Longwool Sheepshop.......oh dear. Will save me carrying it home from Ally Pally though. 200g of sock wool and 200g of Aran I had my eye on them at Harrogate Knitting and Stitching show but ran out of cash.

AND my Mum, in her attempt to reclaim her house, had found this.....obviously mine.

7 skeins of Rowan California Cotton in Sage.