November 4, 2023 · 2:37 pm

New Christmas Sock Yarn

So I ordered Christmas sock yarn (from the Yarn Trader – it arrived fast and beautifully wrapped)

I started knitting Christmas socks in 2018 – that year I used the Fairy Lights colourway from West Yorkshire Spinners and I have returned to them this year with the Nutcracker colourway (it has a bit of sparkle as well). My 2018 socks are still going strong as well.

It is a busy yarn, so I will probably do a simple pattern – although I am tempted for this pattern (which I have in my stash).

I plan to start Christmas day (or maybe Christmas Eve), which means getting the swatch and planning done in advance.

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October 17, 2023 · 6:28 pm

Dame Nature du Printemps Update

It’s a bit weird because of my magnifier

I have been working on my Dame Nature du Printemps (from Jardin Prive). Progress has been slow – lots of unpicking. I bought this pattern for the sheep and chook, so I am enjoying this bit.

I am using the called for DMC and 32 count linen (colour way mocha – the linen is beautiful).

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October 15, 2023 · 2:03 pm

New Sock Project

I was away last week (here) and I wanted an easily transportable project. I started a new sock (the colour above is wrong it’s more mauve).

The cuff is a twisted stitch pattern called Candle Flame and I shall do the leg and foot in stocking stitch – maybe a slightly more interesting heel.

The yarn is from The Wool Barn – it’s their cashmere sock in Misty Mauve colour way.

I am using my usual 2.75 mm needles.

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October 4, 2023 · 4:22 pm

Davaar – Kate Davies and Tom Barr

Davaar – Kate Davies and Tom Barr

I like the publications from KDD (Kate Davies Designs). I think I have all of them. Their publications are beautiful; lovely designs and beautiful photography (like the one below).

This one has a series of essays on various aspects of Davaar, and then the patterns.

There are 10 patterns; things like a hat, cardigan, scarf/shawl, etc.

I am quite keen to make the Iola cardigan (on the one on the cover) and maybe use a variation of this stitch pattern on a sock

If you are a knitter, her patterns are beautiful and interesting, it’s definitely worth trying one.

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September 26, 2023 · 2:00 pm

Patty Lyon’s Knitting Bag Of Tricks

Patty Lyon’s Knitting Bag of Tricks

This book is great. It contains very useful information. The focus is on why and then the how just happens. The structure of each stitch is described; knit, purl, m1l, k2tog, etc, and then there is information about how to improve each stitch. There is information on joining a new ball (always at the start of a row? maybe not), stitching pieces together, casting on and off, and shaping.

There is a great discussion on gauge and why we should all be knitting a swatch and then how to use your swatch to modify the pattern to suit your gauge.

I bought the Kindle version, but on my Kindle Oasis, the images were missing. However, when I used the Kindle app on my Ipad the images were there. Just something to be aware of when purchasing the e-book.

It is definitely something I will refer to in the future.

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September 24, 2023 · 4:58 pm

Alex’s Blanket Progress

Alex’s Blanket Progress

In the evenings, while watching TV, I work on this blanket. I am about half way through. I bought it as a kit from Crossways Wool and Fabrics.

I think the Bailey blanket pattern looks good too, but I need to finish this one first

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September 20, 2023 · 3:29 pm

Dame Nature Du Printemps

Dame Nature Du Temps from Jardin Privé

Any stitching time that I have had, I have been working on my Spring piece from Jardin Privé. To feel less over-whelmed I am being a monogamous stitcher. Progress is very slow. Yesterday I think I achieved 10 stitches (after I had to unpick).

I bought the kit as well as the pattern.

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August 30, 2023 · 2:54 pm

Dame Nature Du Printemps Cross Stitch

Printemps from Jardin Privé

I have been working solely on this project (Dame Nature Du Printemps). I bought the kit with 32 count linen.

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August 19, 2023 · 4:14 pm

Introduction to Jacobean Crewel Work is Finished

RSN – Introduction to Jacobean Crewel Work

I finally finished my RSN crewel work piece. My pomegranate is poor, but I am happy with the rest of it. Given how much I love knitting, I thought I would enjoy working with wool, but I didn’t enjoy the process. I like how it looks, but my yarn (a dodgy batch?) was a bit scraggly.

The course itself was fabulous; great videos that you can watch over and over again. The kit is great and contains everything you need (except a hoop and scissors).

I am contemplating the black work class, but the puffin doesn’t really appeal to me. However, it’s about the learning rather than the end product.

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August 3, 2023 · 2:39 pm

Finished Socks

DK Weight Socks are finished

I finished my socks. They’re plain socks – top down, with a heel flap.

The yarn is from Yarns by the Bay (DK Muddy Waters – 100 grams, 85% SW Fine Merino and 15% Nylon).

I have now started a new blanket;

Alex’s Blanket

I bought the kit from Crossways Wool and Fabric – the kit comes with everything you need (you even get to choose wood or metal needles – I went metal).

I have started twice, but I think I have the hang of it now. It should make good TV knitting. I am just starting to re-watch Little Dorrit (from 2008). I have even read the novel (Little Dorrit)

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