Short Row Heel Bliss

Here is my first attempt at the "short row heel." It certainly made the sockmaking process easier. No heel flap or turn. No need to pick up stitches for the gussett. This also makes it easier when you want to knit two pairs of socks on one needle.

These socks were made with Knitpicks Essential Multi in a red/blue/purple colorway on a size one needle. The pattern is from my favorite "Sensational Knitted Socks."

Make Sure You Get My Good Side

Never a dog to be camera shy, Loki poses for a shot with his "monkey" and Eric. Trying to reclaim "his spot," he spotted the camera for this wonderful photo opportunity.

The Key to Knitting

While Real Estate is "location, location, location," good knitting is "reference, reference, reference." I received "Odd Ball Knitting" this Christmas. It has alot of cool patterns that are "supposedly" to knit down your stash. However, I can see buying new yarn to knit some of the yummy things published in this book. I can't wait to dive in.

Thick and Quick Fashion

I have seen this pattern on the lionbrand.com site for a while. When I got a Michael's Gift Card, it gave me the opportunity to make this for myself. It works up nice and fast even with the cables. I can see myself doing this in other colors and even as a quick gift for a friend. This will look nice with a pair of jeans and a dark top underneath.

The Scarf, and Nothing but the Scarf

Scarves were the theme this year, as they are quick and easy to knit up. I took a chance and knit up this scarf for my sister inlaw's boyfriend, Sean. I used the "Brioche" stitch from the Vogue Stitionary - Volume I. As you can see, Sean really loved the scarf.

SWS - Soy "WOW" Stripes

 I have always wanted to work with this yarn and finally used it to knit up some scarves for the assistance in my office. "WOW." This yarn feels great and works up nice and fast. The recipients really loved the SWS scarves. I plan on using this yarn to make some wristlets.

Short Row Heel

I have always wanted to try a "short row toe" but have been hesitant to try. I finally decided to try with this sock and can't believe I was ever intimidated. All you need is patience and alot of stitch markers. As long as you follow the instructions, all goes well. I can't ever see going back to a heel flap and cup again, though I may do it for nostalgia. Here is the finished heel. Now I'm ready to get the foot done.

Oh, just so you know, this is a Beaded Rib Pattern from "Sensational Knitted Socks." The yarn is Knit Picks "Memories" 100% Merino Wool. The picture doesn't fully represent the colorway, it's a red, violet, purple, lavender variegated.

True Blue Thank You

I like to show my appreciation to clients for referring me to their friends. I ususally do a gift card or send flowers.  However, this referral came while I was doing the Mid-September KAL. 

The "soapbottle dress" on the left was the KAL and I thought this would be a fitting gift. The pattern was so nice, that I whipped up a cloth to go with it. The recipient of this gift has a fabulous victorian house that she has done a great dob decorating. I can see this in her kitchen or bath. I'm sure she'll enjoy and appreciate this.

Still Waiting

It looks like we caught Sam on the computer again. Apparently she fell asleep while watching the bids for cat toys on Ebay. This is the first time she's been caught. What are we to do?

A Blast from the Past

I haven't seen these in so long. It was a pleasure to discover that it was what was the Mid September Dishcloth KAL. This was made with a variegated lilac and cream cotton yarn. Very nice and decorative.

Loving the Vogue Stitchionary

Everyone seems to be very impressed with my handmade bookmarks. This is one that I made for my father in law. The pattern was taken from the Vogue Stitchionary - Volume I. I plan on making many more because their so much better than anything you can buy.

The Cure for Second Sock Syndrome

 

Everyone talks about the dreaded SSS (Second Sock Syndrome). I'll admit I don't knit the second sock with the same gusto as the first but I get it done. What's the cure. Really nice yarn that comes in great colors and feels great. I discovered "Tofutsies" yarn from the South West Trading Company. It's made from wool, soysilk fibers and cotton. Not only can I not wait to finish the second sock, I want to run out and get more of this great yarn in another great color.

Baby Soft

Just arrived from Knitpicks is baby soft, 100% baby alpaca yarn which will be used for some Christmas Presents. It is working up very nicely. Unfortunately, I can't divulge what the projects are for or the recipients. You'll just have to live in anticipation until after Christmas. I'm sure, however, the recipients of the creation of these yarns will love it as much as I do.

Cherry Tree Hill

I really loved the feel of the Cherry Tree Hill Yarn as it worked up into these socks. I used a Ribbed Lace Pattern from Charlene Schurch's "Sensational Knitted Socks." I bought this book on a whim and absolutely fell in love with it. I have made four pairs of socks from the patterns in this book. I have a goal to make one pair of socks from each pattern. The instructions are really easy to follow. The only difficult thing about making socks is choosing which pattern and yarn to use. Cherry Tree Hill makes some really yummy colors. I guess I'll have to knit them all.

Calvin Over the Edge

I can't stress this enough. Never take catnip from a stranger. It is not safe. The last twelve hours are a complete blur. Luckily I can sleep it off for the next day or so. It's not like I have anything to do around the house.