Advent Socks

Hi Everyone 

I’ve completed my Advent Socks. However, it’s a bit too early ! I finished knitting yesterday with three little packets to open, however, all is well. The socks are lovely and I’ve got the ends to sew in today.  I’ll think about the size of the balls for next year. I’ve obviously added a bit too much yarn to each ball. I also like the idea of adding a needles (for sewing in the ends) to the last packet - so will definitely do this next year.

        

The Advent sock idea is here to stay. I’ll prepare the whole project early as I will forget which yarns I’ve included and will use up ends of sock yarn again. I did forget which yarns I’d included this year. I’ve just used my ‘go to’ rib sock pattern but reversed the stocking stitch throughout. Next year, I’ll include another stitch combination, not sure what at the moment ? Perhaps, I’ll think about some cables ?

Each sock is different and I just decided, on the day, which sock to add the new colour yarn ball to. Generally, other than the timing, everything has gone to plan. I’ve enjoyed this project better than the other Advent projects of recent years, so will definitely refine and repeat the idea. I love the socks and will wear them over the next few days.

I’m starting my Christmas Holiday break today so this will be my last post until January 3rd 2020.

Thank you for calling in today. Hope you have a lovely Christmas, if you celebrate.

See you next year with more Making stories.

Woodbine Cowl Project

Hi Everyone 

The Woodbine Cowl is my new name for the crochet cowl I started a few weeks ago. Read about my original crochet idea here. Sadly, the crochet version didn’t quite work out. I managed to crochet the pattern beautifully, a first for me re a completed crochet garment ! However, the characteristics of the yarn didn’t quite work with the lace pattern. I made the yarn myself, so this is a very special project. The crochet shell pattern was totally lost because of the mohair and fluffy yarn, all the pattern spaces were filled and the finished cowl was a bit stiff to wear. I knew I wouldn’t wear my cowl so it was back to the drawing board.

                

My next plan was to keep some of the crochet lines especially the shell patterns and knit a looser more pliable stocking stitch, in between. This was better but still didn’t work. The resulting cowl didn’t lie flat and there was still no drape at all. Generally, uncomfortable to wear.

My solution is to abandon the crochet idea and knit a lace panel design from my Woodbine Sweater design. You can see and read about my Woodbine Sweater by Fiona Alice here. The sweater has been very successful and my plan was to wear the cowl with the Woodbine Sweater, so all is well ! I’m hopeful I can knit the cowl quite quickly and wear both together over the next few weeks. I’ll knit a lace panel and join with a three needle bind off. I’ll take photos to share here on the blog.

Thanks for calling in today. I’ll be back on Monday with more Making stories. Have a great weekend.

Silver Samples

Hi Everyone 

Today’s Silver Sample is a trio of Sterling Silver bangles. I’ve got a silver beaded (3 memade beads)bangle, a semi precious drop charm version and a plain silver bangle. The bangles could be worn together or separately for a different look.

                

I would like to develop more ideas around silver beads and charms. I’m definitely not finished with the bangles. These particular bangles are made with 2mm silver wire. I wanted a rather delicate bangle for myself (to be worn by itself) and felt 2mm would work well. I have a broad hand and generally these sort of bangles don’t go anywhere near fitting my hand. I’ve never been able to buy such a bangle and have thought I’d like one for some time. So, this design is all about me ! Having found the correct fitting (I’m calling it L size), I’ll develop a few more bangles probably using 3or 4 mm wire. I’ll share the new bangles over the next few months. I’d like to add some little bezel cups on the bangles with a few stones embedded into the cups. I may also try out gem setting onto the bangle itself. There are lots of possibilities.

Thanks for calling in today.

New Nuuk

Hi Everyone 

My new Nuuk is almost ready to wear, just a few ‘ends’ to sew in !

              

I posted the story behind this Knit recently, you can read all about it here. As I’ve said many times, the Nuuk sweater is my favourite sweater pattern and there will be more.

There’s not much more to say about this version. As a summary, I’ve knitted it a size larger than I measure and I’ve shortened the body (as I always do with all sweaters). I also keep with the same needles size for the sleeve, bottom and neck rib. I like the loose rib rather than tightening and defining  the ribbed sections. I love it and will wear it often.

Thanks for calling in today. I’ll be back tomorrow with another amazing story.

Christmas Angels

Hi Everyone 

I spent a lovely day Making Christmas Angels on Saturday, here is a few images of my Angel.  

Here he is :

                

This wonderful workshop was run by Liz Reed. Liz runs workshops across the North East of England, you can find examples of her work here. Everything about the Workshop (on Saturday) was lovely and a thoroughly good way to properly start my Christmas. I’ve been preparing and making lists etc for a few weeks but the workshop definitely started my festive celebrations.

I’ve made the little Driftwood people before but the Angel is a new addition to the workshops that Liz runs. It’s a strange thing but although the Driftwood Folk are very simple in design, just a knitted dress/tunic with a driftwood stick for a head and usually some form of head gear; each character is unique. All the Angel's on the day of the workshop were similar but each one, distinctive. It’s the ‘heads’ that start to form the character. 

My Angel is called Bert. I’ve called him (yes, the Angel is definitely a he) Bert because he reminds me of a bloke standing at a bar drinking a pint ! It’s to do with his chunky head, hands in his pockets and a slight ‘leaning forward’ stance. There was no interference from me, he just suggested all his characteristics himself.

Amazingly, somehow the driftwood heads choose themselves. I knitted the tunic and tried a few different heads from a box Liz provides at the workshop. The head I chose was the second head from a selection of about six or seven heads. Somehow, I just knew the head was right.

I love my Angel. My plan is to add a few beads to the tunic,wings and crown, just to make him a little more festive. I’m not totally how he will turn out but I’m hoping he will end up on our Christmas tree in a few days.

Check out the other Christmas Angels made by our workshop group, on the day - here.

Thanks for calling in today. Have a great weekend, I’ll be back on Monday with more Making stories.

Advent Knit Progress

Hi Everyone 

It’s time to share progress with my Advent Knit Project. Today, is Day 16 and my socks are racing to completion. Unfortunately, I have quite a few little packets left ! I think, the issue is that I’ve added too much yarn to each of the bags. I was aware that I was being slightly generous when I prepared the daily yarn bag, only very slightly (in my head). However, the result seems to be - too much yarn when all the yarn is added together !

                    

All is well, the socks are lovely. I think the colours work very well together and I’ve got a few ideas of how I can extend the knit and use the little balls for embellishing the socks. 

Today’s colour is yellow and I’m excited to add this to the second sock (I’m calling the second sock the shortest to date). I’ve just tried my first sock on my foot and I’m ready for the toe part - very exciting. The whole project to has been lovely, I’ve really enjoyed the whole thing.

Thanks for calling in today.

Alpaca Fibre

Hi Everyone 

I have a new little project underway. I’m processing Alpaca fibre to make into a knitted garment. I’m not sure what I will produce with my fibre yet ? but it’s very exciting to produce yarn ‘from scratch’.

I’ve washed the fibre and it’s been quite a few days drying ! The fibre is dry and ready to be carded. This fibre came from a friend’s Alpacas and will be amazing when I’ve worked on it, very special.

                  

I don’t have very much fibre (in weight) and I’ve not had any previous experience of spinning this type of yarn. So, who knows how much I will get and what weight seems possible ? I like the fibre to tell me how to spin it, sounds a bit daft but the fibre definitely spins in the way it wishes. I’ve learned that it’s best to go with how it feels !

I will dye my yarn after spinning, I’m already thinking about colours. My default ‘blue’ will probably be my choice.The fibre (currently) is a pale natural colour which is great for whatever colour I fancy, perhaps a combination of blues. I’ll let you know how things progress.

Thanks for calling in today. Have a great weekend. I’ll be back on Monday with more Making news.

Christmas Cooking

Hi Everyone 

I’m sharing another kind of Making today. This is my annual Christmas cook job. I always make a traditional Christmas Cake, a Christmas Pudding and a few jars of Sweet Mincemeat. However, sometimes, I leave the cooking until a bit too late. This year, all has happened as planned and I’m feeling very smug. The only thing left to do, is to decorate the cake. My plan is a quirky Christmas scene. I have lots of little Christmas characters, some trees, reindeer and boiled sweets (ready for a little lake). I’ll share the results in a week or so. I’ll cover the fruit cake with marzipan and then add Royal Icing (for the snow !). It’s all a bit ‘see how it goes’.

Here’s a quick look at my Sweet Mincemeat in their jars, I’ve made my new labels and its ready to go.

               

The first Sweet Mincemeat job will be Mince Pies on Christmas Eve, a bit of a tradition in our house !

Thanks for calling in today.

Knitting Nuuk Sweaters

Hi Everyone 

I’m sharing my Collection of Nuuk sweaters today. I have (almost) four !

         

My Nuuks have been knitted over a period of two or three years - can’t quite remember ? They are my favourite sweaters, very easy to wear and I reach for them often. The sweaters are very simple and rather plain but great for lots of layering, which is great for me.

Sweater (1), (2) and (4) are all knitted from Baa Ram Ewe Dovestone yarn. Nuuk (3) is made for a very old yarn stash, a Merino (don’t have the label anymore) held together with a lace weight Malabrigo silk. Sadly, number (3) isn’t the best fit, so I will need to reknit the whole sweater. That’s for another day !

The story for today is number (4), my latest Nuuk. This yarn set out life as a tunic, you can read about the journey of the yarn here. I’m knitting this sweater alongside my Advent socks and a crochet cowl project, so things are going slower than I’d like. However, I’m hoping I can finish the main body this evening. The sleeves are very short and I need to add a neckband rib. I’m hoping I can finish this new Nuuk by the weekend. I’m sure at will knit more. I love the long sleeved version and I would like my next Nuuk to have long sleeves. I think, I’d like to knit up a Nuuk from leftover DK yarn in my stash, there are lots of options !! I’ll let you know what yarn I will use,  in the next few weeks.

Thanks for calling in today.

Sewing Update

Hi Everyone 

Following my chat last week about making knickers, I did decide to complete the Celeste Knickers by ohhh lulu. Read the original piece here.

I needed to add the waistband and was wondering if I should push on with the Make ? What was I thinking, although there are slight issues with the placement of the leg lace, the fit and feel of the knickers is great. I’m actually very pleased with the outcome. The fabric is beautifully soft and drapey and the fit is quite good. I will adapt the pattern slightly - I think the fit would improve with a few centimetres on the length at the centre of the back.

                         

I’m inspired to make an adapted second version of the Celeste pattern. I have lots of the dusky pink fabric left to make many more pairs of knickers but I also have some bright pink fabric, which I think will work too. I’ve got lots of different coloured stretch lace and will come up with some idea for the second design. Very exciting.

I’m hoping to cut out the new fabric pieces later today. I’m still house decorating so time is short ! however, I’m keen to keep going with this one. I’ll share the results when I have something.

Thanks for calling in today.

Advent Update

Hi Everyone 

It’s Day 9 of Advent today and my new little yarn ball is yellow. Read back over December to see the development of my Advent Knit Project which is a pair of mismatched socks this year. 

              

I’ve simply added a new section (each day) and the colours have been the ones which came out that day. I do have a choice of which sock I can knit and am excited each day to choose how to progress.

I didn’t know, exactly, how I would knit my socks ? They have turned out well, I like the pattern. The only idea I had, was to to knit a reverse rib - somewhere in the sock. 

I started the heel flat yesterday and wasn’t sure about which stitch to use for the heel ? I want the pattern to be easy to knit so have opted for a purl stitch heel, a first for me. I like the way the socks looks.

So today, I have my yellow little yarn ball. I’ve decided to knit on the smaller sock today. This will introduce the yellow into this sock and make the socks a pair, even though they are mismatched.

Thanks for calling in today.

Silver Sample (6/12/19)

Hi Everyone 

I’m still deep into house decorating and all other creative projects have suffered ! However, I have a number of Silver bangles under construction. So, my Silver Sample for this week is happening. My design is very simple, a fixed (soldered) silver wrist ring with smaller textured silver tube beads. I’m thinking of four sliding beads, initially.

                        

I’ve used a 2mm wire and slightly larger silver tube beads. The beads are not huge but they take a surface texture well and slide on the wire without getting in the way.

I have problems with silver bangles and have looked for the perfect bangle most of my life. Often, a bangle will not fit over the knuckle part of my right hand. Hopefully, these bangles will work, they are a fine (wire) size but strong enough and I’m confident this time all will be well ! I’ll share my results next time. I’m already thinking of adding small cups with semi precious stones if this works out.

On other news, Advent 6 has produced a Mustard coloured yarn today - read bag each day for the whole Advent story. In the meantime, here is a look at the Mustard yarn. This will change the dynamic !

                    

Thanks for calling in today. Have a great weekend. I’ll be back on Monday with more Making stories.

More Knitting Stories

Hi Everyone 

If you called in yesterday, you will know about the dilemma I had regarding my Advent Knitting Project. I opened the third Blue mini yarn ball and eventually decided to just add it. My problem was how the third Blue would effect how the balance of colours could work. Howeve,  I’m happy with progress and all is well. I’d already accepted my socks would not be the same, so that fine ! 

Today, the little ball is an ‘oatmeal’ colour, I’m going to add it to the all Blue sock. No decision needed, I just knew immediately ! I’m very much enjoying this project. Each day, there is plenty of time to complete knitting the new ball and the socks are growing well. I’m hopeful the whole project will be completed by the the end. My slight concern is finishing too early ! If I do, I’m already thinking about how I can add to the basic sock ? 

                  

My second knitting story is all about a project which is repurposing a sweater. You can read more about this story here. I think, the project was always destined to be a Nuuk. I’m looking forward to wearing my new Nuuk. The colour is perfect for my wardrobe, I have lots of layering ideas already ! The Nuuk has been quite a quick knit, only a week in and I’m into the main body of the sweater. It’s just about Stocking Stitch for around another 25 cms, a little on the short sleeves and the neck band. I’m juggling the Advent Socks and my Nuuk each evening, so I’m feeling very smug about my progress.

Thanks for calling in today. I’ll be back tomorrow with another Making story.

Making News Update

Hi Everyone 

I have a little update on my current Making projects today. Surprise, surprise - Advent Day 4 of the sock project has given me another blue yarn ball ! I love blue (obviously) but I do remember lots of other colours in the original collection of yarn balls or did I ? 

I deliberately mixed everything up and have almost forgotten what yarns have been included. However, I guess that’s the whole point - random stuff ! Unfortunately, I’m not absolutely OK with too much blue in one ‘stripe’. The blue will cease to be a stripe and more of a block. I seem to have a minor crisis ! I need to think about this one.

My other news is equally troublesome. I’ve been testing out new knicker patterns and have made (almost completed) The Celeste Panties, a free pattern from ohhh lulu. There are some fabulous patterns on her website, I have a few favourites which I will buy. Take a look at the range here.

My fabric is a lovely, soft, fine, pale pink Lycra and I have used some beautiful stretch lace in a creamy pink colour. The fit is quite good and I like the cut. I’ll adapt the pattern slightly by adding  a few centimetres to the back piece. This will make the fit perfect. I have prepared the elastic for the low waist/hip and it’s two min. job to complete. Generally, I’m very pleased. However, here comes the issue. I’ve managed to not aligne the leg lace. Despite following the designers YouTube video (which reminds you to do this) I managed to attach one side lower than the other ! There’s not much in it but it’s there. Very annoying. I’ve considered taking it out and I may still do this. I’ve left things for a day or so to see if it matters that much. 

                      

It sort of does ! But .... this pair was my test pair and I may leave things as they are ? Hence my reluctance to sew on the waist elastic. I’m going to leave things another day before I do anything. It will take quite some time to unpick the zigzag stitches on the lace !

Let’s hope my day improves !

Thanks for calling in today.

Advent Update

Hi Everyone 

It’s Day 3 of Advent today and I’ve just opened my little bag. It’s a bit tricky today !  I have a decision to make about how to knit today’s mini ball. I had thought, I would just knit on, whatever turned up. However, it’s another of the blue colour and I’m not sure a large block of blue is what I want in the striped socks ? I think, it’s time to start sock 2 !

            

I had a few tests runs with the reverse rib idea and eventually decided on the pattern you see in my photo story. Initially, my ribs were similar in width but it’s the single stitch lines which give the effect I’m looking for. I’m happy with how things are progressing as far as the pattern goes.
The idea of having two socks on the needles is to have a choice of how the colours can be knitted up, I hadn’t thought I would need to start the second sock, so soon. I did think, I would wait until a second grey appeared to start the second cuff with a grey yarn. Such as life ! So, I’ll be starting my second sock today.

Thanks for calling in today.

Advent 2019

Hi Everyone 

It’s Advent again and I’m underway with this years project. I’ve used exactly the same approach as last year, a little box of numbered packets, filled with little balls of wool. This year, I’m knitting a pair of socks.

I started yesterday’s packet (Day 1) with the cuff of one sock, I had all kinds of ideas about creating my pair of (semi matching) socks but have abandoned all the ideas and will simply knit each sock as the yarn appears from each packet. I will knit both socks simultaneously, I’m hoping this will allow me to choose how to place my colours as they appear. I’d like to have a different colour stripe rather than a block of colour, so if I pull out the same colour as the day before, I can choose which sock to add the new ball. That’s the plan.

                 

I don’t t mind the socks not matching, as long as the colours are the same (which they are ). I’ve forgotten, exactly, how many colours and which colours I’ve used, this is a good thing and will give me a little surprise each day ! Day 1 colour is a lovely light grey colour. Day 2 is a very pretty blue. I need to knit a little more of the rib with my blue and then it’s a decision about the pattern or not (on the leg of the socks). I think, I’d like to create a reverse rib pattern on my socks. I’ve seen lots of this type of pattern lately and like the almost inside out look this gives. My plan is to knit up each ball every day which should give me my socks by the end of advent. 

I’ll give an update on the project in a few days and share the pattern I’ve created.

Thanks for calling in today.

Silver Sample

Hi Everyone 

I’ve not had very much time this week for anything other than house decorating ! I’m deep into painting our home with lots more to go ! All is going well but house painting is not my favourite thing, so a few hours Making in my week is a wonderful antidote. I’ve been developing a new range of Silver Stuff and my sample (prototype) today is a pair of earrings.

                 

The range will be centred around the slightly different shaped rings. I wanted to try and create pebble like rings which are linked to create movement within each piece. I’ve developed a batch of pebble rings which are inspired by little pools of water on a flat surface. I want the rings to move and flow along with the wearer. Easy to imagine with the earrings.

I have a necklace in mind for the next piece. This is a bit more of a challenge. I’d like the necklace to be quite short and sit around the neckline of a t shirt. I’ve been working on ideas to develop a clasp which will form a smooth but easy link to my necklace, allowing a perception of movement within the shape (around the neckline). I’m hoping, I can also produce a bracelet and a few rings following a similar theme. I’ll share the photos when I have something in place. 

My photo story today shows the first earrings in my Collection. There are several pairs of earrings with various modifications to the pebble ring shapes and differences in ’movement’. I’m planning to wear the first design of earrings today - much excitement !

Thanks for calling in today. Have a great weekend. I’ll be back on Monday with more Making stories.

Crochet Tales

Hi Everyone 

I have a little crochet project underway, just started yesterday. I had some yarn leftover from a recent sweater knit, it’s a lovely navy blue colour and perfect for my new crochet cowl.

              

The Fennel Cowl by Emma Mitchell is a very pretty pattern and relatively simple. There are only 14 rounds of crochet, I’ve completed 5 rounds, so far and all seems to be going well. I’m holding my memade yarn, spun and dyed from a mix of fibres together with a fine strand of mohair. This mix of yarns gives the crocheted fabric a lovely soft feel with a pretty fine halo. Very satisfying.

My plan was to find a small project to use up my yarn and this certainly fits the bill. I’m hoping I will get the job done quite quickly and that there will be enough yarn to finish the job !  I think, the cowl will look great with my newly completed  Willowburn sweater - check out the sweater here. The sweater has worked well and will look great with the cowl. I’ll get an image of both items together - when the time comes !

Thanks for calling in today.

Sewing Chat

Hi Everyone 

I have a little sewing discussion today. This story is all about petticoats. I’ve had an idea to make a simple petticoat/ dress designed to wear underneath some of my skirts and dresses. The idea is to turn a very lightweight Summer garment into something I can wear all year. Wearing petticoats has been around for centuries (fourteenth onwards ) and has had a role in fashion throughout history. Mostly, there is a very practical reason for the petticoat and my application is a practical one.

My purpose for a petticoat is very simple, it’s about layering for warmth. I have lots of navy/blue/green dresses and a couple of skirts which would work well with a reasonably full skirted petticoat. With this in mind, I’ve purchased some navy brushed cotton fabric for the job.

                

I think, my idea (I’m still thinking) is to produce something which could be called a full slip or chemise or petticoat. All terms are interchangeable in my chat. Historically the slip was a garment which would be regularly washed and worn underneath dresses, lots of dresses which need a slip these days are usually lined - often making the slip redundant. However, I do like the idea of layering for warmth and a slip or lined dress or skirt often hangs well, if there is a slip underneath. 

I thought, I could make my full slip with the view to having a little bit of the slip visible (a few centimetres only) below the outer garment. I also thought the underskirt could give my skirts and dresses a fuller look. 

Having bought my fabric, it’s a lovely navy brushed cotton, I’m now not sure the plan will work ! It would be fine for one or two dresses but most of the targeted garments in my wardrobe (ie for the full slip treatment) are quite close fitting and will probably be too tight on top of the full slip (made in this fabric). So, my plan is to acquire a different smooth, Lycra fabric for the slip and make something much more body hugging. The initial idea, for keeping warm, is still at the top of my list. The lovely navy brushed cotton is now up for an actual sleeveless, layering dress or a skirt. Watch this space for more on my plan. I have some decisions to make.

Thanks for calling in today.

Sewing Knickers

Hi Everyone 

I have a new sewing project underway. This time it’s new underwear. I’ve been making my own clothing (including lingerie) for a few years now and I’m slowly working through previously bought, ready to wear stuff. I’m now in need of new underwear, including knickers, on a larger scale.

I’ve previously made several pairs of knickers and they are fine but I’d like to improve the fit of any new knickers. I’m not over keen on big knickers but have a few patterns which do work well for me. I’m now looking for a smaller design with a good fit so have started looking for lots of different styles. My latest find is a free pattern from Love Sewing magazine, you can download the pattern here. This pattern looks great. The instructions are good and the pattern is very simple. I’ll report on how this goes over the next week or so. I also have some lovely new fabric for my knickers, a lovely pale pink polyester Lycra, there is a little stretch but the texture is quite firm. 

Here’s a quick look at the elements of the project :

                 

I have a wonderful box of different types of elastic, lots of colours, sizes and patterns of elastic which can add to my experiments. I have a metre of fabric which will make quite a few pairs of knickers. If all goes well, I’ll purchase a few more colours of the same fabric.

Hopefully, I’ll have something to show by the end of the week.

Thanks for calling in today.

Knitting Chat

Hi Everyone 

Today, I’m sharing a new knitting project. I’ve pulled out a sweater/tunic (Linnea Tunic by Stella Ackroyd) which wasn’t working for me. I love the design of the Linnea but I’ve chosen the wrong size and it’s much too large. The garment swamps my frame, I’ve only worn it once or twice since making it, several years ago. Take a look at the design here. I like the idea of the design and love the yarn. 

                 

               

The yarn is Baa Ram Ewe Dovestone DK in the Aire colour. You can check out the details of the yarn here. This particular yarn has been discontinued but there is a replacement called Winterburn DK - read about the new yarn here.

I have 300 gm of yarn from my Linnea Tunic and can’t  quite decide wether to make a much smaller version of the same pattern or go for a Nuuk pattern, my favourite small sweater design. Check out the Nuuk sweater by Joanna Hietala here. 

My overall aim is to produce something more like a short, layering garment. As the Dovestone has been discontinued, I’m planning on using my 300 gm to complete my garment. I have seen a number of Dovestone yarns available for sale, so I’m sure at could get more but I’ve given myself the 300gm limit. I’m not sure what the yardage of my yarn will give me but the Linnea was quite a bit bigger than I would want my reworked sweater, I’m hoping all will be well ! I’m going for a short, waist length garment, so my choice is between short sleeves (as with the Nuuk) or no sleeves (as per the Linnea). I’m leaning towards the Linnea at the moment, simply because I already have two Nuuk sweaters.

I’ll report on my decision in a few days. I have several knitting projects on the go, although both are coming to an end in a few days. There is also a long queue of projects - I’ve a feeling this sweater may leap to the top !

Thanks for calling in today.

Weekly Silver Sample

Hi Everyone 

Today’s Silver Stuff Sample is another pair of small earrings. These little pieces were made from leftovers, always pleasing to rework every last bit of material. This is a bit of a problem with me, there’s lots of positives about being efficient but it does lead to hoarding ! I’m working on this problem.

Anyway, I’m very pleased to have made these lovely little items. They should be for sale but I rather like them and they are almost in my little everyday  box. 

                 

I will certainly be making more of these little earrings, watch this space.

Thanks for calling in today. Have a great weekend.

I’ll be back on Monday with more Making stories.

More Knitting Chat

Hi Everyone 

For the past week or so, I’ve been heavily into house decorating. This is not my favourite activity ie the actual painting but needs must. The whole process is long overdue and something which should have been done, years ago. However, things are getting done now ! Each day, I have a couple of hours dedicated to the job. As part of the the new decoration process, I’m planning new colours and lots of new soft furnishing ideas. This element of the job is more me.

I’m going from blues, pinks and little bits of green to grey, white and possibly touches of red, green and a mix of Autumn type colours. It’s all a bit fluid at the moment. I’m also trying to introduce different textures into my main living space, so there are different fabrics as well as knitted items, leather and wood. I’m not there yet but it’s all coming together. 

One of the new things which I’d like to add to my sofa is a knitted cushion or maybe two of them ? The images in my photo story show the pattern I have in mind. This pattern is called Tassel Pillow and comes from a little book called Cosy Alpaca Knits by Jem Weston. I won’t be using Alpaca yarn but I will probably use some similar colours to those in the sample.

                    

I have lots of yarn in my stash and will be checking there for suitable colours. The cushions needs to join the knitting queue ! I have quite a few projects already underway. I’m not sure when I can start it ? However, I’m keen to have the finished cushion so may start quite soon. I’ll share my process as usual.

Thanks for calling in today.

Bag Making Project

Hi Everyone 

I have a new project in the planning stage. This time it’s all about bag making, leather bags ! I’ve been thinking about the idea for quite some time but finally, I’ve found a local leather supplier and I’m inspired to put my ideas into action.

I’m still researching ideas but am convinced I need a simple design - which I can handle. I’ve found inspiration from Pinterest and have put a little photo story together which illustrates the designs I have in mind. Check out my Pinterest board for the details of the samples here.

My leather skills are non existent so I need a very simple process. The first ideas will follow previous bag construction methods. I’ll line my bag with a complimentary cotton fabric and am hoping my old sewing machine will cope with the soft leather fabric.

               

The leather Im using is a dark grey colour, ideally I would have liked red but couldn’t find a red leather. I like the grey so will probably use a red cotton lining as a compromise. I’d like my bag to be a handbag size. I’m going for short handles and a boxy type shape.

My next move is to make a paper pattern and test out the size with a toile (a test version) in calico. I’ll also check out my machine on the leather and check how many layers the machine can cope with.

I’ll be sharing my leather bag developments over the next few weeks. Call in to check my progress.

Thanks for reading.

Knit Project News

Hi Everyone 

I have a new knit project in the planning. This is a pair of knitted socks/slippers. The pattern is from a lovely little book ‘Cosy Alpaca Knits’ by Jem Weston. The pattern calls the items slipper socks, although the socks are knitted they have a leather like sole which make them hardwearing for use around the house. The book gives a reference to buy the soles, I’ll be making my own from some leather offcuts (already in my stash).

            

I especially like the little tassels which embellish the top of the slipper socks. I love the colour combination in the book and will probably go for similar colours. The slipper socks use a single skein of yarn as well as the contrast yarn used for the tassels.

I’m going to raid my stash for suitable yarns, I’m hoping I can find exactly the right colours. I’ll share my final choices in a few days. 

I have a few knitting projects currently underway, there’s my final pair of Christmas gift socks to complete (almost there) as well as my Woodbine Sweater. You can read about my Woodbine Sweater progress here. The sweater has been waiting for a week or so, until my sock gift knitting has been completed. However, I’ve run out of yarn for the socks (needed to order a new ball) so have added a few rows to the final arm of my sweater. I’m almost there and it’s looking great.

Thanks for calling in today.

PolyGem Ring Sample

Hi Everyone 

I’ve been experimenting with making polymer clay stones and enamelling techniques, you can see my original post about the subject here. I’m quite happy with the first completed ring. The polymer stone is quite large and seems to sit well in the sterling silver ring. I have a number of other stones, ready for several more rings so will continue with the experiments.

                  

The idea for this first project was to understand the specific dimensions of the stones. I wanted the stones to be quite large but also needed them to be appropriately proportioned. Having completed the first stones, I think, the next few samples need to be several millimetres thinner. I’d like the silver to envelope more of the stone. 

My next stones will be thinner and hopefully covered in more silver. I’m hoping to make more progress with this project later in the week. I’ll save my results until I have a few more rings to share.

Thanks for calling in today.

Earring Experiments

Hi Everyone 

Today’s post is an experiment with earrings. I’ve been developing polymer beads/components and adding enamel to the surface. I’ve had mixed results but those that have worked are great. My plan is to add a silver jump ring to attach both pieces together and a silver post or half hoop for the ear connection. I’ll experiment with both styles of ear attachment and choose the best look for me.

          

I love the colours. The smokey blue and teal colours work so well together.

Small earrings are usually my thing and these are not that small, however I think they will work fine with fine silver elements. I’ll make the silver rings and ear attachments with 0.8mm silver wire. I’ve decided the jump rings should be slightly oval in shape, I’m hoping this will keep the finished items compact and give the bottom bead slightly limited movement. I’ll share the finished items next week. 
Thanks for calling in today. Have a great weekend. I’ll be back on Monday with more Making stories.

The Advent Project 2019

Hi Everyone 

A few days ago, I mentioned preparing for my 2019 Advent Project. I’ve been putting some thinking time to my plans and have decided to make a pair of socks this year. I’ve searched my sock stash bin and come up with a number of yarns, including some leftovers from previous projects. Here’s a quick look at the pile of yarn I’ve put together. I won’t need all the yarn in my photo story. I’ve decided to use a pair of recently knitted socks as a guide for how much yarn I need. Several pairs of hand knitted socks have been weighed and each comes out at a different number. The highest number seems to to  72gm. I’ve decided to use this as my guide.

          

My sock design will follow a top down approach, I’ll include a scallop cuff, a heel flap with a simple stocking stitch throughout. I’m going to divide my yarn into little balls of around 2/3 gms - this is very small but great for knitting up every day (and completing). I’m going to develop two balls of the same yarn for consecutive days. This will allow me to knit two very similar socks. I’ll cast on two pairs of socks, each on a separate circular needle and repeat the same exercise on each sock for two days. I guess this takes out a certain degree of surprise every other day but I can live with it.

I will add my little balls to mini paper bags with the number of the day on each bag, I did this last year and it was great, so I’ll repeat the same process.

So, I’ve  got my plan and will get the whole thing organised this weekend. I’ll share some images of my Advent Box when it’s ready to go for 1/12/19.

Thanks for calling in today.

New Shawl

Hi Everyone 

I have a new knitted shawl project on my to do list. I’ll probably cast on the shawl later today. I already have have several projects ‘on the go’, however, I’m very keen to get going. This project is part of the 2019 Knitvent from Helen Stewart. The idea is to receive six different knitting patterns over the next couple of months, towards Christmas. Knitvent is an annual thing and each year there is a theme connected to the idea. This year the theme is ‘home’. You can read about Helens Knitvent here along with her other news.

               

I’m using Dovestone natural chunky yarn in shade 3. I’ve chosen to knit the medium size, however, I’m tempted to knit the larger one each time I look at the pattern. I know the shawl will be very cosy and it feels as if I need to go for larger size ? If I do, I will need to acquire another ball of wool, I’m hoping there’s one left in my local yarn shop ? - I know there was only one left in my chosen shade. 

I have a sweater in this yarn and it’s lovely so I know the shawl will be squishy and luxurious. I’ll keep you posted on my progress.

Thanks for calling in today.

Silver Sample

Hi Everyone 

Today, I’m sharing the Silver Sample for this week. This time it’s a few pairs of ‘button’ stud earrings under construction. 

              

A version of these earrings has a regular place in my workshop. This time, I’ve made the stud buttons from Precious Metal Clay (PMC). I use all kinds of  silver for the stud part of the earrings (as a regular Make) but these particular pieces of fired silver clay are leftover bits from previous jewellery projects  and I’ve been able to hammer, shape and file the leftover pieces into something which is perfect for stud earrings. 

My next job is to solder the posts in place, I’ll also tumble the finished earrings which gives a lovely shine to the stud part. My favourite (from the sample in my photo story) are the studs in the centre. These studs have been domed and shaped; I think, I’d like to keep them for myself.

Thanks for calling in today.

Gift Knitting

Hi Everyone 

I’m sharing progress with the last item in this years gift knitting list. I don’t knit many Christmas gifts (usually socks) and I tend to start around October. Each year several people have requested to join the list and after consideration, I decide if they are knitworthy or not. So, my photo story is showing the last pair of socks. I don’t have a pattern as such, it’s several bits of various patterns that have worked for me over the years. I’m using stash yarn, stuff left over from previous socks. All my yarns are West Yorkshire Spinners sock yarn in solid colours. I’m not sure of the names of the colours but they are all in shades of blue and green. The toe and cuff will be blue, the body of the sock is green and the heel a bright teal shade.

             

I’m using a rib pattern for the leg and top of the foot, I find this help with the final fit. These socks are large, size 12 feet ! and the rib helps give a lovely snug fit over the foot while coping well with the very long length of the foot. I’m hoping this pair off socks will be finished by the end of the week.
My next knitting thoughts are all about planning this years Advent Knit. Over the years, I’ve tried lots of different ideas. This year, I’m going to knit socks. I’ll have mini balls of yarn each day (to open) and simply knit whatever comes out, that day. I’ll seek out leftover sock yarn in my stash and choose colours which work together. Generally, 60- 64gm yarn is about the weight of yarn I need to make a pair of socks for me. I will chat about the detail in a week or so, just before December arrives.

Thanks for calling in today.

Silver Sample

Hi Everyone 

Each week, I’m including an example of one of my ongoing Sterling Silver Makes. I’m hoping I can use this prompt to help me organise and plan my work, more efficiently. This weeks Silver Sample is a pair of tiny stud earrings. I have a batch of these earrings underway, each is unique although the scale and type is similar. The sample in my photo story is around 7mm in diameter. I’ve created the Stud part from PMC (precious metal clay) and made various surface marks during the moulding stage which gives the unique design for the earring. I have also hammered and carved some earrings after the firing stage to provide more surface patterns.

I like to wear small earrings for everyday wear, so am keen to keep going with this design. 

               

I have given my sample Studs a slightly distressed surface and will keep this pair for myself. I need to add the posts and give a final polish and then, they are ready to wear. Hopefully, there will be some earrings left to sell ! 

Thanks for calling in today. Have a great weekend. 

I’ll be back on Monday with more Making projects.

The Woodbine Sweater

Hi Everyone 

I’m sharing an update on my current sweater knit today, the Woodbine Sweater by Fiona Alice. You can read all about the progress of the project here ,here and here.

 I’ve developed the main body of the sweater and have almost completed one sleeve. The sweater is a good fit. There’s plenty of positive ease and it’s just the right length. I wanted a short, boxy shape which is slightly different from the original pattern by Fiona Alice. I’ve also changed the sleeves, I have made a plain stocking stitch design rather than the lace version in the original. I liked the look of the lace combination but felt I would prefer a plain sleeve for my own particular look. You can see the original version here on Ravelry.

        

The various sections of the sweater have come together beautifully and I’m definitely feeling, I’m on the last stages of the knit. The right sleeve is almost done and I’m pleased with how the sleeves are working out. I’ve changed the rate at which the sleeve is decreasing from the shoulder, the sleeves feel good - plenty of room for layering. My next dilemma is to decide how to finish the cuff - do I go for a rib as per the pattern or continue with a slight roll of stocking stitch ? I’ll wait and see how things look when both sleeves are completed.

I love my sweater and am keen to complete the sleeves, then there’s only the neckline to knit. I’m especially pleased with the fact that I have made and/or dyed all the yarn for this project. The idea was quite overwhelming, initially, but it’s given me lots of ideas of how a I can integrate my hand spun into larger projects. Very pleasing !

Thanks for calling in today.

More Sock Knitting

Hi Everyone 

Today, I’m starting my final gift sock for this year. I don’t knit lots of Christmas gifts, there are very few knitworthy folk on my list ! This time, I’m going for a series of green coloured yarn from West Yorkshire Spinners, I’m not sure of the colours ? - all the yarns have been used for previous projects so, I’m using up my leftovers (always satisfying). 

My plan is to knit a simple rib sock with a heel flap. I’ll use each of the colours for the rib, the main body of the sock, the heel and the toe. I like the combination of these colours and the finished socks will be just right for the recipient.

Here’s a quick look at the yarns :

          

I’m hoping I can complete my socks over the next week or so. However, they are the largest socks I ever knit - size 12 feet ! The foot part seems to go on forever. I’ll share the final items when they are finished.

Thanks for calling in today.

New Mittens

Hi Everyone 

I mentioned knitting mittens while on my mini holiday last week, here is a quick look at the finished items.

               

I was inspired by the Azzurite Mittens pattern designed by Sonja Bargielowska for Blacker Yarns. I knitted the original pattern, last year, which includes a simple colourwork design. You can check out the design here.

I especially like the cuff construction and also wanted to include some colour contrast in my design. I’ve chosen to use a number of stripes, this is a very simple way of using colour and works well with the mittens. I have a pearl row either side of two knitted contrast colours. Both of the yarns used are from Blacker, Swan and Gotland DK.

The pattern design is straightforward but I’ve changed the size, a little. I felt my original Azzurite Mittens didn’t fit very well and as a result they were not that warm to wear. This time, I’ve reduced the width of the mittens and lengthened the thumb, only slightly. The finished items are a snug fit and feel as if they will be warmer.

I started these mittens (around this time) last year and had completed only one mitten. The project sat in a project bag and I’d almost forgotten about them. When I took the first mitten out of the bag, the quality of the work was dreadful. So, I’ve re knitted both mittens (some parts) several times, and have definitely improved the quality of the finished mittens. The weather is staring to get cold and I’ll be wearing my new mittens today.

This project has been part of my aim to complete all my unfinished Making projects. It’s one down, lots to go !

Thanks for calling in today.

Spinning Update

Hi Everyone 

I’m back from a lovely week in North Yorkshire, I could do with another ! However, such as life ! There was lots of sitting around time so I was able to knit several pairs of socks and mittens. Weather was good and we walked about and ate lots of very nice meals. Generally, I had a great time.

This week, I’m concentrating on planning to complete all my current unfinished projects. There are quite a few. I’m hoping to clear out lots of rubbish and will hopefully come across all the unfinished projects. Some will probably be abandoned but there are sewing projects and knitting project which I know I would like to complete. Hopefully, I can make a list which will be scheduled ! Wish me luck.

Other news; over the last month or so, I’ve been trying to practice my spinning skills each day. Just a short session but it’s certainly helping to improve the quality of the yarn I’m producing. I want to keep going with this practice so will need to make time each day alongside the unfinished list. Here is a quick look at the latest spin progress. It’s just a small amount of yarn to add to a yolk pattern for a cardigan. I’m not there yet but you can see the first bobbin load, transferred to my niddy noddy.

             

The knit project is a cardigan, the pattern is the Epistrophy by Kate  Davies. You can see the pattern on the yolk section of the garment. This will be knitted in my me spun yarn, the rest will be Baa Ram Yew Dovestone (now replaced by Winterburn) in a dark grey colour. I’ve been thinking about knitting this garment for a long time and am excited to use my own yarn for part of the project.
My yarn is in a lovely bright green shade called Lichen, the fibre is Perendale. The fibre produces a tough yarn, with a similar feel to Shetland. I’m hoping the yarn will soften, a little, after soaking. There will be more about this project over the next few weeks.

That’s about all my news for today. Thanks for calling in.

The Poly Gem Project

Hi Everyone 

Following yesterday’s post, I’ve been working on developing my bezel cups for the latest poly gems. I’m sharing one of the cups in my photo story.. The photo story shows the very first stages of the constructed bezel cup job. There’s still lots of finishing required, however, you can see how the idea will work with one of the rings. I think, there will be three rings in total ?

             

I’m going to add closed rings to several of the other cups and attach a chain for pendants. I have learned lots about the poly gem developments for the future with this project. The size is important and I needed to spend lots of time dressing the stone in the photo story. Both the edges and the base of the poly gem needed lots of filing, in future - this needs to be done at the clay moulding stage. I think, a better approach is the create a range of bezel cups and make poly gems to fit rather than the approach I took this time ie creating the cup around the gem.

Generally, I’m quite pleased with how the stones are working with the silver ring. The ring is not that big, slightly disappointed about this, but will be lovely. I think, this ring is destined for me !

Thanks for calling in today. 

Have a great weekend. 

I’m off on a family trip next week, so will be back on Monday 4/11/19 with more Making stories.

Poly Gems

Hi Everyone 

Today, I’m sharing a number of poly gem stones developed earlier this week. As I described in my initial post on this subject last week (check out the post here), I wanted to create poly gems with an enamel finish. My early experiments found that the temperatures needed to accommodate both polymer and enamel are crucial to the finish. The enamel needs a slightly higher temperature to completely melt the enamel powder. This puts the polymer at risk of burning, so the time exposed to the higher temperature needs to be managed carefully. I’ve tried applying the enamel both before and after curing the polymer. I think, applying the enamel onto pre cured polymer has worked best for me. I used my curing oven for the stones in my photo story. The first experiments were ‘cooked’ in my Efcolor stove (check out the stove here) and I managed to burn the polymer - several times.

          

The final experiment worked quite well in terms of time and temperature, so the stones are there and ready to be turned into gems for bezel cups.

I’m ready to make the bezel cups today. The poly gems are all slightly different shapes and sizes - the first bezel cups will be those for the largest stones and will form part of a ring. I’ll make a couple of cups (to start with) and see how things turn out. Watch this space for progress.

Thanks for calling in today.

Ready to Wear

Hi Everyone 

Finally, I’ve managed to refit the shirt/blouse. The original idea was introduced here on the blog a few weeks ago. I shortened the length of the garment and the sleeves. 

              

I took the cuffs off the garment and refitted them with several pleats (at the wrist). Although the job took a while, most of the time was taken up with undoing the previous stitching and making decisions. I’ve kept the body width of the item and this results in a boxy, relaxed fit. I like this fit and it seems to work well with layering for colder days (I’m wearing a long sleeved T shirt under the blouse/shirt in my photo story). Originally, I had thought about adding darts to give a closer body fit. I’m happy to have gone for the relaxed fit, I’m convinced I will wear the shirt/ blouse more.

The shirt/blouse fabric is an interesting London Underground print in a lovely soft fabric, easy to wear and a useful everyday garment. I do like the transformation job. The recycling idea was central to this project and has reinforced my intentions to continue recycling more items from my wardrobe. So, more recycling plans are required !

Thanks for calling in today.

Knitting Update

Hi Everyone 

I’m sharing progress with my current sweater knit today, the Woodbine Sweater by Fiona Alice. Check out my introductions to the project

here and here. The project has gone well so far. I’ve hand spun the majority of the yarn and hand dyed the bit that wasn’t hand spun. Generally, it’s a from scratch project. The size seems good so far, although, I’m slightly anxious that the length of the sweater maybe slightly longer than I’d hoped ! It’s difficult to tell how the final fit will work out, until I’ve knitted more of the sleeves.

          

The sides of the sweater have been created around the central lace panels and I’ve made a start with the sleeves. The sides of the sweater are closed with a three needle bind off, this is a particularly satisfying technique for closing seams and leaves a beautifully neat finish.

I need to complete the sleeves and add the neckband. The published sweater design incorporates a lace pattern on each sleeve, I’m not so keen on this element. My plan is to knit a plain stocking stitch sleeve. I do need to recalculate the stitch number for the sleeves. I’m not quite sure how they will work at the moment ? I’ll spend some time today working out the plan. The final job will be a simple rib for the neckband.

This sweater has been a great project. Considering the hand spun element, I’m quite pleased with the progress I’ve made. I’m hoping the fit will be good. If it’s not perfect, I’ll probably need to rip it out and start again ! I’ll get a sense of that today, so fingers crossed. 

Thanks for calling in today.

Spin to Knit Project

Hi Everyone 

After my recent success with spinning for knitting (see the details of the project here); I’ve started another. This time, I’m using a smaller amount of fibre for the spin and pairing it with a repurposed (to be) batch of ready made yarn. My previous project is well underway, I have the sleeves and the neckband to complete - there will be more on the project later this week.

Getting back to the new project, I’m using a very different fibre for the spin part of the project. This time it’s a carded Perendale fibre, dyed in a beautiful bright green/yellow shade called Lichen. I’ve only just started the spin but it’s going OK. I need to adjust the ‘feel’ of this spin compared to the previous experience. This time the fibre is a medium coarse wool resulting from a cross between Romney and Cheviot sheep.

              

I need to undo the majority of the yarn for my new project, currently a sweater garment. I’ll provide details of the project later this week, after I undo the sweater. My plan is to spend some time spinning - a short session each day. I will also make time to undo the sweater, soak the yarn and prepare for the new knitting project. Hopefully, I’ll be able to launch my new knit in a week or so.

Thanks for calling in today.

Silver Work

Hi Everyone 

I’m sharing part of my weekly silver work today. I’ve produced a large batch of rings, yet to be finished, this week. Some of the rings are destined for the Blue Collection, introduced earlier this week. I’m hoping they will receive their enamelled poly gems (from yesterday’s blog story) shortly. However, the rings (in my photo story) are destined for experiments in developing my technique for enamelling poly gems.

           

I have a particular fondness for making silver rings, so have enjoyed this job. However, I’m also keen to make bezel cups for this batch. I will choose three different colours for my enamelled gems. Probably a red, green and mustard/yellow. The gems will be different sizes and organic in shape, I’m not sure how things will turn out ?, I’ll wait and see what happens. I’ll share all my experiments.

Thanks for calling in today. 

Have a great weekend. I’ll be back on Monday with more Making stories.

Enamelled Poly Gems

Hi Everyone 

I’m sharing the results of a little experiment with enamelled Poly Gems today. These little gems are part of my Blue Collection ideas. They will be turned into bezel gems for a ring and a pendant. The basic gem (in my photo story) is made of polymer clay and finished off with an enamelled layer.

                

I’m using my favourite blue colour but will experiment with more colours later today. I like the idea of reds and greens. However, I have to say, I do love the blue colour and the way it works with the dark clay, I’ll test out a few different clay colours to compare.

My next step with these particular gems is to shape the gems and make customised sterling silver bezel cups. I’ll add one of the bezels to a ring and give the other a closed ring to attach to a chain. I’m not sure about the final size of the gems ? I’ll work on the shapes until I get something which works. At the moment, the gems are quite big (approximately 2cm diameter) - when they are sanded, I will probably loose around 0.5cm. I’m not particularly keen on a standard shape, so I’ll go with whatever feels right when I shape my polygem. I’ll share the results as I go.

Thanks for calling in today.

Sock Knitting

Hi Everyone 

My latest sock knitting project is going well. I’ve completed one sock and the cuff of number two is almost there. I’m quite surprised how quickly this sock has come about. These socks are gift socks and I’ve started quite early to give myself lots of time. Every year, I am slightly stressed when the gift knitting isn’t in place before the beginning of December. I have very few knitworthy relatives and friends so not too many items to produce !

            

The socks in my photo story are lovely, I may even make myself a pair. These socks are a simple design, they have a wide rib on the leg and top of the foot but otherwise a very simple standard sock pattern. That said, it’s exactly what’s required for a comfortable sock. You can find the yarn details here
on a previous blog post.
I’m knitting these socks alongside my sweater project at the moment so things may progress more slowly but I’m confident I’ll finish the socks within the next week.

Thanks for calling in today.

Blue Beads

Hi Everyone 

I’m sharing a new sample bracelet today. This new Collection is all about the colour ‘blue’.

          

I worked on the beads last week and have put together a sample bracelet (see my photo story). Inspiration for this  Collection has come from knitting my latest sweater, featured on the blog yesterday. Look back to see the details. 

There will be a number of additional designs in the Blue Collection, including beads similar to those in the sample bracelet. However, each bead is an individual item and formed with unique colour combinations. 

I’m also incorporating sterling silver into the designs and will play with developing rings, pendants and earrings. I’m hoping I can make ‘poly gems’ for each of my silver pieces. My plans are to produce something similar to a cabachon (a gemstone which has been shaped and polished, the resulting form is usually a rounded shape with a flat reverse) component.

I’ll keep the silver element simple and allow the poly gem to steal the show.

I love big rings and the poly gem idea will allow me to have a very large ring which is quite lightweight to wear. I’ll share my Collection progress over the next few weeks.

Thanks for calling in today.

Knitting News

Hi Everyone 

More news to report about my latest sweater project. This sweater, Woodbine by Fiona Alice is probably about a third of the way into being made. Perhaps more, if I count in the spinning job. This is a big project for me. I’ve hand spun most of the yarn (I used a ready made yarn for one of the ply sections) and everything has gone well, so far. My only slight reservation (at this point) is the width of the central panels now they have been blocked. The pattern is ready to knit out from the sides of the front and back panels. If my panels are not quite wide enough, I should be able to compensate by knitting a little more on each side, I hope ? I’ve no evidence to support the idea that the panels are not wide enough, it’s just how it looks to me.

            

I’m very pleased with the development of the yarn. Spinning for a whole sweater is quite a big deal for me. I am fine with thinking of a partial spin but a whole sweater is something else ! Over the weekend, I’ve soaked and dried around 400gm of yarn. It’s wound into three cakes and ready to start the sides. My next job is to pick up stitches along the length of the front and back sides and start producing the sides of the sweater. Hopefully, I. An start that job later today.

Thanks for calling in today. 

Beads for Bracelets

Hi Everyone 

Today, I’m sharing a few little beads. These beads will form part of a range of bracelets. For this Collection, I’m taking inspiration from fabric and sewing projects. All the beads will be made from polymer clay. I’m using polymer because it’s great for creating lightweight beads as well as being amazingly versatile for creating all kinds of shapes.

              

Much of my own wardrobe is blue. It’s a colour I come back to all the time. So, there are lots of plans to produce ‘blue’ bracelets. The beads for this particular bracelet are simple, small and roundish. This time, they will string onto an elastic thread. I love these type of bracelets, very easy to wear and can be stacked to give lots of variations.

My process is to identify a piece of fabric or an item of clothing and use this for creating the colours and surface patterns of the beads. The Blue Collection is well underway and I’m already looking at moving into teals and greens for the next batch. I’m experimenting with creating innovative ways of getting the surface pattern onto my clay as well as introducing silver into the Collections. There will be different styles of closures but I do want to concentrate on producing simple stretchy bracelets and make beautiful colours and patterns. I’ll share new developments often.

Thanks for calling in today. Have a great weekend. I’ll be back on Monday with more Making stories.

Gift Knitting

Hi Everyone 

My official gift knitting plan is underway. I’m not mentioning the C word but you will know what I’m talking about.  I’ve chosen the yarn and a pattern for a pair of men’s socks. I have a couple of people that are knitworthy, so only have two pairs of socks to make. I’m usually starting this job in November but I’m giving myself a bit more time, this year. My first pair of socks will be a self striping yarn in greens and blues with a contrast heel, toe and cuff. The plain yarn is a sock yarn from West Yorkshire Spinners, not sure of the colour name ? I think, it’s Juniper. The striped yarn is King Cole Zig Zag in the Michigan colour. Both yarns have been sitting in my stash for quite some time.

           

I’m using a new pattern, to me. It’s the Wise Hilda’s Basic Ribbed Sock by Kate Atherley. I simply searched for free patterns on Ravelry and this was the first one that came up. The pattern is fairly standard and follows the basic sock pattern that I would normally knit, other than an overall rib pattern. 

There’s not much more to say on this one. I should be able to make good progress over the weekend and I’ll start looking in my stash for a second ball of wool to start the next pair of socks. I have lots of sock yarn and am doing quite well with not buying new stuff, this will reduce the stash, a little !

I’ll let you know how the pattern turns out.

Thanks for calling in today.

Spinning Talk

Hi Everyone 

I’m still consumed with spinning for my Woodbine Sweater (design by Fiona Alice). Check out my daily blogs from this week to read more about the project. The project is moving at a pace !  I seem to be slightly more productive re my spinning speed this week. Usually, spinning for a sweater tends to be overwhelming. However, this time everything has gone to plan and I’ve managed the spin well. I think the key is breaking down the project into manageable chunks.

             

I have all the fibre spun and on bobbins. I’ve also wound my dyed yarn (from yesterday) onto bobbins, ready for plying with the hand spun. The photo top left has the hand spun on the right and the dyed yarn on the left. Plying in this way is a new idea for me and I wasn’t totally convinced it would work. Fortunately, I think all is well. I’ve plyed a bobbins full of yarn and wound it onto the niddy noddy (photo bottom right). The colours are working well together and I’m pleased with the resulting, quite dark navy yarn.
I'm also quite pleased with the quantity of yarn I have. I was a little unsure about the finished yardage and did wonder how I could plan any shortfall. Im now hopeful that I’ll have enough to complete my sweater. There is an option to use some of the other yarn I developed for the central section (see this yarn here and here. My preference is to have plain sleeves but if I run out of yarn, I could knit the lace section of the sleeves (as per the pattern- check an image of the pattern here showing the lace section on the sleeves).

Today’s job is to complete the plying. I’ll leave the yarn on the niddy noddy overnight and soak it tomorrow. The yarn will take a day or so, to thoroughly dry. I can probably begin knitting the sides and sleeves by the weekend.

Thanks for calling in today.