tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-313773672024-03-18T01:59:17.216-05:00Loom KnittingHere's the behind-the-scenes of LoomKnitting.com. This is what I'm working on, struggling with, and learning. My successes end up on the website. The rest? Well... read about that below! <p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger115125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31377367.post-56746776567535379622010-03-27T19:51:00.007-05:002010-03-27T20:53:41.845-05:00Long Loom book<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi40h58uI18aikoyyGrIbFM6vNCF_bNRxtymLe3lina0uB-G_PkxyzvXPXWE6UPbfw2cu0WTFfZjHWSROdgjQwFrGWMi6v6XhYtXfDvpoXaP1XtA373I6DfsZAtkkqAbxJ_NuwqXQ/s1600/LL+Front+Cover.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi40h58uI18aikoyyGrIbFM6vNCF_bNRxtymLe3lina0uB-G_PkxyzvXPXWE6UPbfw2cu0WTFfZjHWSROdgjQwFrGWMi6v6XhYtXfDvpoXaP1XtA373I6DfsZAtkkqAbxJ_NuwqXQ/s400/LL+Front+Cover.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453481281159256946" /></a><br />This book was several years in the making, and all the projects use the double knit technique. There are many stitch patterns used in the various designs, including using beads and basic lace techniques, adding and decreasing stitches, and several bind-off and joining methods. Difficulty levels are Beginner, Easy and Intermediate. It's coming out at the end of April, and you can <a href="http://www.loomknitting.com/catalog.php?item=56&catid=9&ret=catalog.php%3Fcategory%3D9" target="_blank"> preorder a copy</a>!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31377367.post-18358063762327060762009-08-27T08:22:00.001-05:002009-08-27T08:22:28.401-05:00Sock Loom Book<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnqGkzIGQN9ifHyUVwp9z3WHt1bQrsfWY1zT3smI0ZdYLCAtD8cYbwQ4beNQM-dmNQ-44jalV1kbwGxT3UHlNZwgSHkgEtqJL7oYsdrwYu5h6e9fZWvsibmL9qf3ySaOrLKO3p-Q/s1600-h/LKSocksPic.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnqGkzIGQN9ifHyUVwp9z3WHt1bQrsfWY1zT3smI0ZdYLCAtD8cYbwQ4beNQM-dmNQ-44jalV1kbwGxT3UHlNZwgSHkgEtqJL7oYsdrwYu5h6e9fZWvsibmL9qf3ySaOrLKO3p-Q/s400/LKSocksPic.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374617982448019266" /></a><br /><br />A surprise greeted me in the mailbox today, an advance copy of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Loom-Knitting-Socks-Beginners-Projects/dp/0312589980/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1251376258&sr=1-1" target="_blank"> Loom Knitting Socks</a>. I was thrilled to see my socks on the cover. Well, not really my socks, but the Bead Peaks socks is one of the pairs I knit for the book. All sock designs are by Isela Phelps, and 16 of us helped knit over 100 socks in six weeks earlier this year. The book will be available at the end of September.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31377367.post-47479626132881960862009-05-10T19:24:00.004-05:002009-05-10T19:43:21.498-05:00Shepherd's HarvestI spent Mother's Day at the Shepherd's Harvest Sheep and Wool Festival in Lake Elmo, MN. It was exhilirating, overwhelming and inspiring. There was yarn in every stage including on the hoof. Sheep dogs did their herding thing, there were shearing demonstrations, carding and spinning machines everywhere. You could buy fiber in any stage, roving, skeins (dyed and undyed), and even knit up! There were even angora rabbits for sale.<br /><br />Here is what llamas look like right after they get a "summer haircut"<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLZABC0L-pA5FnTVBVN-zJmQaZ1A6kEqnTPKGUAOC6NZnxHjqg5CFXoIDvKK8SsbJX5o1zlCWDZbK5666jZ5DOMoDgkZgvvWF_vyPa9-NeiIwQwSnoZJEuQxXnL6OSNLkLrJMDWA/s1600-h/Llama2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 288px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLZABC0L-pA5FnTVBVN-zJmQaZ1A6kEqnTPKGUAOC6NZnxHjqg5CFXoIDvKK8SsbJX5o1zlCWDZbK5666jZ5DOMoDgkZgvvWF_vyPa9-NeiIwQwSnoZJEuQxXnL6OSNLkLrJMDWA/s400/Llama2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5334355759152000898" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg6SMGQFhiHBh5X6NPmyeFjstqIU4Czxk2J1VMBQjhAWoDw169sQkfd28XgQRpbb563Lkw2SZJAvSn1GwHjSbv5yOnVvprk9pXZihL59RAFYyxWZ8ei22dDxYn_P4Ub2aiV9fYbw/s1600-h/Llama1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 288px; height: 272px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg6SMGQFhiHBh5X6NPmyeFjstqIU4Czxk2J1VMBQjhAWoDw169sQkfd28XgQRpbb563Lkw2SZJAvSn1GwHjSbv5yOnVvprk9pXZihL59RAFYyxWZ8ei22dDxYn_P4Ub2aiV9fYbw/s400/Llama1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5334355758010866130" /></a><br /><br />There were four buildings of vendors, with hand made stitch markers, buttons and beads, beeswax lip balm, hand made soaps (some were felted), felted dolls with sculpted ceramic faces and hands, leather purse straps, sweaters and hats and mittens and slippers and shawls and scarves and ... the creativity displayed was indescribable. There were felting hat forms, blocking boards, lamb recipes, and every knitting, crocheting, weaving, and felting tool and notion you can imagine! Ever seen a two-eyed needle?<br /><br />There was a full schedule of hands on classes too, for spinning, basket weaving, using circular sock machines, dying yarn, machine knitting, even blogging. What a day of fiber fun!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31377367.post-41023851105356242192009-04-08T17:17:00.016-05:002009-04-29T23:05:27.693-05:00Any Loom, Any Yarn, Any Size Sock!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglapW8u0fwHncWvx9a_7hk6ERRxT4ImuW1mDfaqyL-raop5w1Ini3dweUZPIOinZe_z7_eOX_GMJO6YKNVQKvGr8gtgfRXz82SnOh-yCltQPg0ds6nJ7vq637wo3YlXegwgLI0MQ/s1600-h/SocksTemplatePattern.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 297px; height: 288px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglapW8u0fwHncWvx9a_7hk6ERRxT4ImuW1mDfaqyL-raop5w1Ini3dweUZPIOinZe_z7_eOX_GMJO6YKNVQKvGr8gtgfRXz82SnOh-yCltQPg0ds6nJ7vq637wo3YlXegwgLI0MQ/s400/SocksTemplatePattern.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322457958680333490" /></a><br />Yes, it's true, with <a href="http://www.loomknitting.com/catalog.php?item=54&catid=8&ret=catalog.php%3Fcategory%3D8" target="_blank">this pattern</a> you can make any size sock with the yarn and loom of your choice, with the caveat that the loom is able to be adjusted for the number of pegs in use. I can't tell you how many socks and sock parts I've knit to create this pattern. Really, it's a template, and it works like this.<br /><br />1. Knit up a gauge swatch with the loom and yarn you want to use to make your socks. Measure the rows and stitches per inch.<br /><br />2. Look at the (included) table to find the measurements that correspond to the shoe size of the intended sock wearer. You can make socks for an infant, a grown man, and any foot size in between all from this one pattern.<br /><br />3. Plug in the numbers to make a few calculations. These calculations will tell you how many pegs you'll need and how many rows to knit for each section of the sock.<br /><br />4. Write the results of the calculations in the pattern itself.<br /><br />5. Cast on and start knitting!<br /><br />The socks are made toe up (no seams!), and the toes and heels are knit with Japanese short rows. They're very simple to do (no wraps and turns like other short row socks!) but they do require some <a href="http://www.loomknitting.com/catalog.php?item=55&catid=8&ret=catalog.php%3Fcategory%3D8" target="_blank">stitch markers -- little coilless safety pins</a> work really well, since you'll be marking stitches, not pegs.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoPNxK3bvUQcZNXAh4OerWa8q0u87xVIt3AR-D1oawDyfZRGvVQaYatk1gxCZrmxHcfBm3mtZNtnAzFmdaQLFhP2458LETHjFgJFum9YzoVCTqEnG_-w6D69Pot8ZRLNwlK5xQiQ/s1600-h/StitchMarkers.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 169px; height: 259px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoPNxK3bvUQcZNXAh4OerWa8q0u87xVIt3AR-D1oawDyfZRGvVQaYatk1gxCZrmxHcfBm3mtZNtnAzFmdaQLFhP2458LETHjFgJFum9YzoVCTqEnG_-w6D69Pot8ZRLNwlK5xQiQ/s400/StitchMarkers.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322480087646378946" /></a><br /><br />You can individualize these socks with coordinating heel and toe colors, changing leg length, amount of ribbing at the top, etc.<br /><br />I hope you enjoy this versatile <a href="http://www.loomknitting.com/catalog.php?item=54&catid=8&ret=catalog.php%3Fcategory%3D8" target="_blank">template pattern</a>!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31377367.post-73329829281428623622009-04-08T16:19:00.004-05:002009-04-08T17:14:22.937-05:00Head Hugger at LKC<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK6znmj30yFZIUbPoyF8S3m_H0M0IWYWmZEhlz3pttacgvZkupBXqPoy454f6xUQfjd-oayuOlX8iFh8iEWH4abBLKGV3hP_EZHvGgxOM5XLoVDkRhX5dU_tQWDsXxLl2A8_GfMA/s1600-h/Modeled.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 264px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK6znmj30yFZIUbPoyF8S3m_H0M0IWYWmZEhlz3pttacgvZkupBXqPoy454f6xUQfjd-oayuOlX8iFh8iEWH4abBLKGV3hP_EZHvGgxOM5XLoVDkRhX5dU_tQWDsXxLl2A8_GfMA/s320/Modeled.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322445355372312514" /></a><p><br />The Spring 2009 issue of <a href="http://loomknitterscircle.com/" target="_blank">Loom Knitters Circle</a> is now available, and it includes my pattern for a Head Hugger winter hat. It's not yet spring weather here in MN, and we still have days where such a hat is welcome, but you can always get started on next winter's knitting too! Unless you live in the southern hemisphere, then this pattern is here just in time! It's a portable project, so go check this out and all the other new patterns too.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31377367.post-87134061157444670382008-12-12T21:04:00.002-06:002008-12-12T21:09:15.445-06:00HiatusI have been very busy with my looms and have missed posting about what's been happening. Rest assured, I'm still here! I hope to catch up on my backlog soon, and get those partially completed posts up here!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31377367.post-27507827359529061462008-05-13T22:41:00.005-05:002008-12-11T07:07:11.460-06:00Teeny Tiny SocksA friend makes teeny little socks on a very small custom made loom. When I saw those socks, they really struck a chord with me. You see, when my daughter was born 13 - 1/2 years ago, she had to stay in intensive care for a week. Her condition was fairly common; she just had to be on IV antibiotics for seven days before she could go home. As I spent hours in the ICU with her, I got to see the extremely ill and very premature babies in there also. The sight of those miniature feet is something I will never forget. <br /><br />My friend made me a small loom similar to hers, and I have been trying out making those little preemie socks. But there's some Serious Single Sock Syndrome going on here -- none of these match! <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIwFp8EbXvspCzRE8N8k06F1G5Tfl8Pezo9UMkyZvXMWY95mvZe_CTPtydbxgb_3SYTrrcJpFxbJsxmfX2Plt180tlLWZc-ySJgiOeRljOwVjqjReindg5V0hn3OWtEiCIAll15w/s1600-h/PreemieSocks.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIwFp8EbXvspCzRE8N8k06F1G5Tfl8Pezo9UMkyZvXMWY95mvZe_CTPtydbxgb_3SYTrrcJpFxbJsxmfX2Plt180tlLWZc-ySJgiOeRljOwVjqjReindg5V0hn3OWtEiCIAll15w/s400/PreemieSocks.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210618574096172978" /></a><br />1. Ribbed cuff, turned heel, stockinette foot, zigzag bindoff.<br /><br />2. Ribbed cuff, turned heel, ribbed foot, flat bindoff.<br /><br />3. Ribbed cuff, turned heel, stockinette foot, gathered bind-off.<br /><br />4. Ribbed cuff, turned heel, stockinette foot, toe-up design.<br /><br />I still don't have a sock I'm entirely satisfied with...Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31377367.post-26016984436410543432008-04-10T15:08:00.003-05:002008-12-11T07:07:12.222-06:00Headband<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOpQnilKetgrf9R9Awdoq8RaCB0PngTFUxkEwBvk84XhbFqqMsNJfbHJLV7PicEPqGh_XitjMCt-6ovMeORZtsv-pQntFmweiDGAzGdnDY0yM6TMyJ1g3CUUHpaoFlfbmyzXb1pw/s1600-h/Headband1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOpQnilKetgrf9R9Awdoq8RaCB0PngTFUxkEwBvk84XhbFqqMsNJfbHJLV7PicEPqGh_XitjMCt-6ovMeORZtsv-pQntFmweiDGAzGdnDY0yM6TMyJ1g3CUUHpaoFlfbmyzXb1pw/s400/Headband1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5187711777148510786" /></a><br />I finally got around to taking pictures of this little project. (IOW, my dd finally consented to modeling it!) This headband was made using a 10-peg fine gauge keychain loom that Isela Phelps gave out to people at the Knit Out at the Mall of America in Minneapolis in February. The headband pattern was part of the give-away. It is knit in a garter stitch pattern, with tapers at the beginning and end.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1k0i4uCORCxzmutWhmFHYNyOMsulyi7Sm0UCFlGct2V1vl3b5biBWOTbybnk6IPkX-L5mqZRE4BPNV0VJiypOSl7X2tdzeDvzyTLerMpPVsyxI87-EdTutx_3kPiL1PhjZIi8_Q/s1600-h/Headband2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1k0i4uCORCxzmutWhmFHYNyOMsulyi7Sm0UCFlGct2V1vl3b5biBWOTbybnk6IPkX-L5mqZRE4BPNV0VJiypOSl7X2tdzeDvzyTLerMpPVsyxI87-EdTutx_3kPiL1PhjZIi8_Q/s400/Headband2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5187711781443478098" /></a><br />The recommended yarn in the pattern has some stretch, but I used some regular old worsted weight from my stash, and there's enough stretch in the garter stitch pattern that the headband fits comfortably and goes on and off easily.<br /><br />It would be cute worn this way too.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXd4WsuU_NQI0NLdXpG4ahQ_6zWUs2d7kIXCw6MIFeeuJTLnbNhWdiFa_XlZ1jScolYX3svqxrrirznJ4QgQFUgqlls-1LRbgHVcm2lUlPfVTyPKgxZ3Vkiawn2KpXVrL811aC7Q/s1600-h/Headband3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXd4WsuU_NQI0NLdXpG4ahQ_6zWUs2d7kIXCw6MIFeeuJTLnbNhWdiFa_XlZ1jScolYX3svqxrrirznJ4QgQFUgqlls-1LRbgHVcm2lUlPfVTyPKgxZ3Vkiawn2KpXVrL811aC7Q/s400/Headband3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5187711781443478114" /></a><br />If I were to make it again, I wouldn't use all the pegs, as I like my headbands a little narrower. I'd also do a longer section that is narrow to go along the hairline at the neck, and move the tapers closer to the ears so the width is just where the headband shows on top of the head. It really is an easy project, though knitting with a fine gauge loom takes a lot longer than knitting with the large gauge Knifty Knitter looms!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31377367.post-84517789209660689222008-04-06T10:32:00.007-05:002008-12-11T07:07:12.484-06:00FunnyThis tickled my funny bone.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbVVy-jsmYz8lv8scU20N4fuYBt1zYginu4jMvV77eaJ1_LTeNYggesXY_kizOVvXJ2hbZV5ZmLgA8VJjZmRNXw4aL-JMNlj7FuxbMhfr-61I7Po0cz17EAkTaA2qgXDZHp_k6CQ/s1600-h/comic.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbVVy-jsmYz8lv8scU20N4fuYBt1zYginu4jMvV77eaJ1_LTeNYggesXY_kizOVvXJ2hbZV5ZmLgA8VJjZmRNXw4aL-JMNlj7FuxbMhfr-61I7Po0cz17EAkTaA2qgXDZHp_k6CQ/s400/comic.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5186155841516364466" /></a><br />What a way to use up leftovers in your stash!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31377367.post-35412017289950619702008-03-28T11:08:00.001-05:002008-12-11T07:07:13.161-06:00Selvage Edge<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg3iQscu2bKDaBLdJ_Unj0vV86BjAV5A3i-fzlrg2DSEd6_L0PAQY0cJba_GUIZxk8xdT66Ipgs2zYue2pdc-JAfKLB7-0z-54DyvqkrFykeDZdCf2N6Aafkmyb1EiDr2yzVNaSQ/s1600-h/SelvedgeEdge1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg3iQscu2bKDaBLdJ_Unj0vV86BjAV5A3i-fzlrg2DSEd6_L0PAQY0cJba_GUIZxk8xdT66Ipgs2zYue2pdc-JAfKLB7-0z-54DyvqkrFykeDZdCf2N6Aafkmyb1EiDr2yzVNaSQ/s400/SelvedgeEdge1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5182826361393668546" /></a><br />The alternative to a <a href="http://loomknittingblog.blogspot.com/2008/03/slipped-stitch-edge.html" target="_blank">slipped stitch edge</a> is a selvage edge. This firm edge is generally used when the edge is hidden in a seam. It is considered a finished edge, so can be left visible. It is called a selvage edge because the yarn is doubled back on itself, the same as with woven fabric.<br /><br />To make a selvage edge, the end pegs are knit on all rows. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm1AY7ybK26oUMjZTmWxD3jsDehui3q2x6_sQnbMuV-hLwkoBSYHpKs_gtHuS5SM_yRyNfFdX7xruJv-7MSUe8QFhhWuAy_DF_jCOq7yzlzm6SYbUc5E7Zwx8j1VIGSPno8ZnIsg/s1600-h/SelvedgeEdge2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm1AY7ybK26oUMjZTmWxD3jsDehui3q2x6_sQnbMuV-hLwkoBSYHpKs_gtHuS5SM_yRyNfFdX7xruJv-7MSUe8QFhhWuAy_DF_jCOq7yzlzm6SYbUc5E7Zwx8j1VIGSPno8ZnIsg/s400/SelvedgeEdge2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5182826747940725202" /></a><br />For example,<br /><br />Cast on to 10 pegs.<br />Row 1: Knit pegs 10 - 1.<br />Row 2: Knit pegs 1 - 10.<br />Repeat rows 1 - 2.<br /><br />Since the selvage edge of a knit item is usually hidden in a seam, you generally wouldn't need to put a garter stitch pattern on the sides, as the seam eliminates the need to prevent curling. But to be consistent with the post on slipped edges, here is what the piece would look like with a garter pattern edge:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-XPK2oKKKQXuVJGjST2D_TNKAE3DKauNXRdcaO9L40R33P484_dgLfUIIvTjMZ-uMlCh_mxVKyCsp2uu_dXyMQ92XIiV0mWqt3XSemF8Flp5riyz4tkvxVyClVT5V5dM3enJ1gQ/s1600-h/SelvedgeEdge3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-XPK2oKKKQXuVJGjST2D_TNKAE3DKauNXRdcaO9L40R33P484_dgLfUIIvTjMZ-uMlCh_mxVKyCsp2uu_dXyMQ92XIiV0mWqt3XSemF8Flp5riyz4tkvxVyClVT5V5dM3enJ1gQ/s400/SelvedgeEdge3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5180954829394436498" /></a><br /><br />Cast on to 10 pegs.<br />Row 1: Knit pegs 10 - 1.<br />Row 2: Purl pegs 1 - 2, knit pegs 3 - 8, purl pegs 9 - 10.<br />Repeat rows 1 - 2.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31377367.post-91435220082625809972008-03-25T21:37:00.005-05:002008-12-11T07:07:14.034-06:00Slipped Stitch Edge<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCM_4xb8U64wYaI1036AL7SLN0FLaDiNIwzrNTJYnU8TTgqyNDdYO6ofijdTykQOCz2wHm_5NupmsQeu4alH7TGKgnbPx5TXbDAWUTLk9TXHIRacCPPtyQp29J2pY_Bf17Iyy1xw/s1600-h/SlippedEdge1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCM_4xb8U64wYaI1036AL7SLN0FLaDiNIwzrNTJYnU8TTgqyNDdYO6ofijdTykQOCz2wHm_5NupmsQeu4alH7TGKgnbPx5TXbDAWUTLk9TXHIRacCPPtyQp29J2pY_Bf17Iyy1xw/s400/SlippedEdge1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5180602685025837378" /></a>Questions lately have been about the slipped stitch edge. This technique gives a pretty finished look to the sides of your knitting. If you are making a scarf or afghan or other project where the edges of the knitting will show, the slipped edge is definitely worth considering, since it looks like a smooth braid.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF_0mLV1skftd7U5dMGUqPA6txUCMlncMgISfkYHK_6cdUGqhhFZWcWt92ftwTfJzG2vATgLuJPWyFHbCGMO4nziEbFtwxCmwp6hqbCOZ8FZYG7HTwYYfqdz2Z5__TqFsspdf1yA/s1600-h/SlippedEdge2.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF_0mLV1skftd7U5dMGUqPA6txUCMlncMgISfkYHK_6cdUGqhhFZWcWt92ftwTfJzG2vATgLuJPWyFHbCGMO4nziEbFtwxCmwp6hqbCOZ8FZYG7HTwYYfqdz2Z5__TqFsspdf1yA/s400/SlippedEdge2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5180602848234594642" /></a>Making a slipped edge is a simple as skipping the first peg on each row.<br /><br />Let's say your knit piece is 10 stitches wide. You would cast on to 12 pegs, because the slipped stitch at each edge doesn't contribute to the width of your piece. For each row, you would skip the very first peg, then knit to the end of the row.<br /><br />Cast on to pegs 1 - 12.<br />Row 1: Skip peg 12, knit pegs 11 - 1.<br />Row 2: Skip peg 1, knit pegs 2 - 12.<br />Repeat rows 1 - 2.<br /><br />If you are alternating knit and purl stitches in any sort of pattern, even just a garter stitch pattern at the edges to prevent curling, you always want to knit the very last peg in every row. The knit edge loops make the braid along the side of your knitting.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEj2_fJcpWTxaqXxb0DOnkm1fAFJAreQFRs1PNArehhfUIiKAu-_vUP671VlyiibM8ZkwK-rwFVDDrK56ooE_khX9ZZ3PV24hJi_MJesiO4_qgMcTKD_IjZDqJDYunR1zUDa_s9w/s1600-h/SlippedEdge3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEj2_fJcpWTxaqXxb0DOnkm1fAFJAreQFRs1PNArehhfUIiKAu-_vUP671VlyiibM8ZkwK-rwFVDDrK56ooE_khX9ZZ3PV24hJi_MJesiO4_qgMcTKD_IjZDqJDYunR1zUDa_s9w/s400/SlippedEdge3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5180606481776927074" /></a><br />The sample is knit as follows:<br />Cast on to pegs 1 - 12.<br />Row 1: Skip peg 12, knit pegs 11 - 1.<br />Row 2: Skip peg 1, purl pegs 2 - 3, knit pegs 4 - 9, purl pegs 10 - 11, knit peg 12.<br />Repeat rows 1 - 2.<br /><br /><br />A well written pattern will indicate if the edges are slipped or not, either by stating so in the notes, or in the instructions themselves, such as above (skipping the first peg of each row, knitting the last peg in each row). If the pattern doesn't have a slipped edge, you can always add one by casting on to two more pegs and skipping one peg at the beginning of each row.<br /><br />The name for this technique comes from the similar technique when knitting with needles. The first stitch on the left needle is slipped onto the right needle without being knit or purled.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31377367.post-41027262095423386452008-03-21T15:27:00.008-05:002008-03-21T15:48:47.481-05:00Michaels is Discontinuing ClassesI'm so sorry to have to spread the word that Michaels stores are discontinuing their classroom programs effective the end of March. The word has been out for a few weeks, but I wanted to wait to say anything here until all the instructors received their lay-off notices.<br /><br />I've been teaching at the Michaels in Maple Grove MN for 2-1/2 years. I've created and refined curricula for different levels of loom knitters and for the various looms that ProvoCraft developed. I've shared the craft of loom knitting with countless customers while giving demonstrations in the store, and gotten many people hooked on knitting with looms in the classroom. Not only have I taught technique classes, but also project classes, from hats and scarves to mittens and felted purses and slippers and so much more. Many of my students took multiple classes from me, and some travelled quite a distance. I will truly miss sharing my passion for this craft in-person, one-on-one in the Michaels store.<br /><br />It's not just Knifty Knitter classes that are discontinued, but all knitting, crocheting, beading, scrapbooking, flower arranging, painting, etc. classes. (The only classes that are staying are the Cake Decorating classes through Wilton.) This is not the first (or second) time Michaels has stopped offering classes, so chances are that classes will again be offered at some time in the future. After all, the Kids Club program has already been replaced by <a href="http://www.theknackkids.com/" target="_blank">The Knack</a>. You can make your opinion known by calling 1-800-MICHAELs.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31377367.post-79934641384685309872008-03-07T21:44:00.006-06:002008-12-11T07:07:14.353-06:00My book at Michaels<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEileFToPKOtf3GP6xc7GzgTv_8d-Ut-X9NdHe4EDgWE2UIpxvQJR2OTU0dmh9D7ujyi-yTMLmLBArF_SLnIV1XrVFPpGIHxduScdf8n-NIEUZ-myDIIUiqfoU0BKC8dghqlbPL54A/s1600-h/AtMichaels.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEileFToPKOtf3GP6xc7GzgTv_8d-Ut-X9NdHe4EDgWE2UIpxvQJR2OTU0dmh9D7ujyi-yTMLmLBArF_SLnIV1XrVFPpGIHxduScdf8n-NIEUZ-myDIIUiqfoU0BKC8dghqlbPL54A/s400/AtMichaels.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5175211872310613410" /></a>Woo hoo! The store where I teach is finally carrying the book that I wrote! And it's on an end cap at eye level. :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31377367.post-90977339751707480432008-03-06T23:50:00.009-06:002008-03-07T00:12:28.578-06:00Loom Knitting MemeThis is making the rounds. I saw it first on <a href="http://www.knitchat.com/2008/03/06/loom-knitting-meme/" target="_blank">Denise's</a> blog.<br /><br /><b>What are you loom knitting?</b><br /><br />Just for fun...a loom knitting meme. What have you made with your loom? What do you do knitting/fiber related? Copy and paste the following meme into your blog and link back to me by commenting to this post. <br /> <br /><b>What I've made on my knitting looms and what I have done knitting/fiber related: </b><br /><br /><b>Afghan -</b> several <br /><br /><b>I-cord – </b> many, of different thicknesses <br /><br /><b>Garter stitch -</b> absolutely <br /><br /><b>Knitting with metal wire - </b> no <br /><br /><b>Shawl - </b> several <br /><br /><b>Stockinette stitch - </b> yes, constantly <br /><br /><b>Socks: top-down – </b> yes, singles <br /><br /><b>Socks: toe-up – </b> singles here too. <br /><br /><b>Knitting with camel yarn - </b> nope <br /><br /><b>Mittens: Cuff-up -</b> plenty <br /><br /><b>Mittens: Tip-down - </b> no <br /><br /><b>Hat – </b> More than I can count <br /><br /><b>Knitting with silk a fine strand with wool for socks - </b> no <br /><br /><b>Moebius band knitting - </b> yes <br /><br /><b>Participating in a KAL – </b> A few<br /><br /><b>Sweater - </b> yes<br /><br /><b>Drop stitch patterns - </b> yes <br /><br /><b>Knitting with recycled/secondhand yarn – </b> oh yes<br /><br /><b>Slip stitch patterns - </b> definitely <br /><br /><b>Knitting with banana fiber yarn – </b> hmm, where do I find that? <br /><br /><b>Twisted stitch patterns – </b> e-wrap counts <br /><br /><b>Knitting with bamboo yarn – </b> yes, very soft <br /><br /><b>Charity knitting - </b> some<br /><br /><b>Knitting with soy yarn – </b> yup<br /><br /><b>Cardigan – </b> no, but I should <br /><br /><b>Toy/doll clothing - </b> some <br /><br /><b>Baby items - </b> some <br /><br /><b>Knitting with your own handspun yarn – </b> Spinning used to be a dream, but it’s fading as I get older <br /><br /><b>Slippers - </b> Definitely<br /><br /><b>Designing knitted garments – </b> uh, yeah.<br /><br /><b>Cable stitch patterns – </b> done that for years<br /><br /><b>Lace patterns – </b> simple ones, they’re a bit challenging on looms but getting easier with the sliding peg thingies<br /><br /><b>Publishing a knitting book - </b> check <br /><br /><b>Scarf – </b> uh huh <br /><br /><b>Teaching a child to knit – </b> Just how many Girl Scouts have I worked with? <br /><br /><b>Knitting to make money – </b> I don’t think I’ve ever sold a knit item…<br /><br /><b>Buttonholes – </b> uh huh <br /><br /><b>Knitting with alpaca - </b> yup <br /><br /><b>Fair Isle knitting - </b> no <br /><br /><b>Dying with plant colors – </b> not for knitting, but I’ve smashed flowers onto fabric… <br /><br /><b>Knitting items for a wedding - </b> no <br /><br /><b>Household items (dishcloths, washcloths, tea cosies…) - </b> yes <br /><br /><b>Knitting socks (or other small tubular items) - </b> yes <br /><br /><b>Knitting with someone else’s handspun yarn - </b> yes <br /><br /><b>Holiday related knitting - </b> yes <br /><br /><b>Teaching a male how to loom knit – </b> yes, but not many <br /><br /><b>Bobbles - </b> yes <br /><br /><b>Knitting for a living – </b> You can support yourself by knitting? Sign me up! <br /><br /><b>Knitting with cotton -</b> yes <br /><br /><b>Knitting smocking – </b> not really<br /><br /><b>Dying yarn -</b> no <br /><br /><b>Knitting art - </b> no <br /><br /><b>Fulling/felting - </b> yes <br /><br /><b>Knitting with wool – </b> how else do you felt? <br /><br /><b>Textured knitting - </b> yes <br /><br /><b>Kitchener stitch - </b> yes , without knitting needles!<br /><br /><b>Purses/bags - </b> yes <br /><br /><b>Knitting with beads – </b> both knitting a strand of beads and stringing beads along the yarn and placing them in the stitches<br /><br /><b>Swatching – </b> All the time <br /><br /><b>Long Tail CO - </b> yes <br /><br /><b>Knitting and purling backwards – </b> let's see, would that be going the opposite direction on the loom? <br /><br /><b>Knitting with self patterning/self striping/variegated yarn - </b> yes <br /><br /><b>Stuffed toys – </b> working on them <br /><br /><b>Knitting with cashmere (mmm, cashmere!) – </b> I’d like to <br /><br /><b>Darning – </b> ugh. When I was a kid I’d darn socks using a plastic easter egg on the inside. <br /><br /><b>Jewelry – </b> yeah, knitting with beads. <br /><br /><b>Knitting with synthetic yarn – </b> that would be the cheap stuff, acrylic, right? <br /><br /><b>Writing a pattern - </b> yes !!!<br /><br /><b>Gloves/mittens – </b> Both <br /><br /><b>Intarsia – </b> not a lot <br /><br /><b>Knitting with linen - </b> no <br /><br /><b>Knitting for preemies -</b> no <br /><br /><b>Short rows - </b> ya betcha!<br /><br /><b>Cuffs/fingerless mits/armwarmers - </b> yes <br /><br /><b>Pillows – </b> they’ve never held much appeal, though my Grandmother used to needle knit gorgeous patterned ones. <br /><br /><b>Knitting a pattern from an online knitting magazine – </b> does knitting a pattern FOR an online magazine count?<br /><br /><b>Rug – </b> no, but I want to <br /><br /><b>Knitting on a loom – </b> Duh!<br /><br /><b>Knitting a gift - </b> yes <br /><br /><b>Knitting for a pet? – </b> I’ve threatened, but dh would draw the line <br /><br /><b>Shrug/bolero/poncho – </b> two out of three <br /><br /><b>Knitting with dog/cat hair accidentally or on purpose? – </b> Cat hair all the time. Mine too. And horse hair sometimes. <br /><br /><b>Hair accessories – </b> yes<br /><br /><b>Knitting in public – </b> Absolutely! <br /><br /><b>Knitting with buffalo yarn -</b> no <br /><br /><b>Knitting with pygora – </b> hmmm, goat hair, sounds fun<br /><br /><b>Dyeing with food dye/drink mixes - </b> no <br /><br /><b>Dyeing with chemical dyes (acid, etc) - </b> no Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31377367.post-25500641519685156632008-02-23T12:36:00.000-06:002008-12-11T07:07:14.639-06:00Kumihimo<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxHpist0F4qDpwyHIT80X9tBw9yFCtqIolHl2DDZHPzy5xi-9NV8jyWomj40ERnHar1RRP3P-y-zgZb9EIQVMCHckRHoGkE5q1jJ7GFaObgoRZUfyGRzdLjgf5jFZmGqUS_60lFQ/s1600-h/kumihimo.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxHpist0F4qDpwyHIT80X9tBw9yFCtqIolHl2DDZHPzy5xi-9NV8jyWomj40ERnHar1RRP3P-y-zgZb9EIQVMCHckRHoGkE5q1jJ7GFaObgoRZUfyGRzdLjgf5jFZmGqUS_60lFQ/s400/kumihimo.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5170231723451276530" /></a>Kumihimo is a Japanese form of braiding or weaving strands of silk (or yarn or other fiber) into round or flat cords. This was taught at a hands-on booth at Knit Out by a Washburn County WI 4-H club. I can see myself making kumihimo cords instead of knitting I-cords for purse handles, edgings, etc.<br /><br />This <a href="http://www.loomknitting.com/freedownloads/Kumihimo.pdf" target="_blank">simple cord</a> was made with seven strands of yarn and a piece of cardboard from a cereal box that I cut into a rough octogon. I have since found kumihimo braiding boards with as many as 40 slots! Traditional kumihimo stands have a "mirror" (a slightly bowled round unnotched disc) that can be used with an unlimited number of strands. With those, you also use bobbins to hold your strands, weights for even pressure on the braided cord, and a chopstick as your braiding tool. Once you get into the rhythm of moving the strands (I alternated between right and left hands with just slight shifts of the cardboard disc), it becomes very relaxing, almost meditative.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31377367.post-6189465313672512042008-02-21T09:51:00.007-06:002008-02-21T15:10:19.690-06:00Local FameI've had a hard time wiping the grin off my face. I've been feeling like a celebrity, with people coming up and saying they saw the <a href="http://www.loomknitting.com/freedownloads/LoomKnittingE-print.pdf" target="_blank"> article</a> in the February issue of Plymouth Magazine about me. I dare not go out in public now in my sweats and without make-up!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31377367.post-63753699171055038352008-02-17T20:33:00.019-06:002008-12-11T07:07:15.072-06:00Knit Out 2008The second annual <a href="http://www.craftyarncouncil.com/knitoutbrochure.html" target ="_blank">Knit Out and Crochet</a> event in Minneapolis was this weekend, again at the Mall of America. It was a smaller event this year, with fewer vender booths, but it was just as crowded as last year. A number of vendors again had give-aways -- the coveted large black canvas Lion Brand tote bags, knitting needles, crochet hooks, magazines, patterns, gauge measuring tools, yarn, etc. A long line snaked through the mall as people went from booth to booth collecting freebies, and many people were knitting or crocheting while shuffling along. The Learn to Knit and Learn to Crochet areas were combined into one. The demonstrations were off to one end instead of in the rotunda, but there were more demonstration tables. Maybe by next year they'll figure out that the demonstrators need microphones; there's just too much ambient noise inside a large mall for anyone not sitting in the first row to hear well. <br /><br /><a href="http://isela.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Isela Phelps</a> did the loom knitting demonstrations this year. She gave a fine presentation, showing a couple different cast on methods, binding off, and knit, purl and cable stitch techniques. She also gave out 10-peg keychain looms along with a headband pattern so people could practice what she was demonstrating. She was promoting (and autographing) her Loom Knitting Primer book as well as the Loom Knitting Pattern Book coming out in May with projects from various designers. Many of the beautiful cabled projects from her book were on display. <br /><br />Not only did I get to meet Isela and Sam, but also <a href="http://cputzier.tripod.com/" target="_blank">Carrie Putzier</a>. Carrie helped me a lot when I was first getting started with the looms. She lives in MN too, but this is the first time we've met in person.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIpzKdpA_CTmQV190rUZdURJKjbXl2it76CnVs5k_-gJ7yJ0f0pHRs-rgOrQ-n8WqbbJSdd40RAqhBqKohXyOc-mCzfAn86XtmE7u6gBk5CY2q9UzqMMpwjtennMwQu_MsOoCJ8A/s1600-h/Carrie&Isela&Me.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIpzKdpA_CTmQV190rUZdURJKjbXl2it76CnVs5k_-gJ7yJ0f0pHRs-rgOrQ-n8WqbbJSdd40RAqhBqKohXyOc-mCzfAn86XtmE7u6gBk5CY2q9UzqMMpwjtennMwQu_MsOoCJ8A/s400/Carrie&Isela&Me.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5168538013660200418" /></a><i><center>Carrie, Isela and me</center></i><br /><br />There were so many knit and crochet samples on display to inspire us, but this Sock Monkey dress in the Knitting Machine Guild's booth was the most unique. Each monkey was named! <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Wig7FCjm0UUF62wVtjd_ubafDEf8U1qk8H6DciaV6GDHbaFgft5lZ5OihHTYVGOH1kAIRFFlRhvrY-Zl7hqJLzcs0ZZfau7AJoQZmEnqeP3_ZW8alxqDji9koMyrNRlF7rF_Cw/s1600-h/MonkeyDress.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Wig7FCjm0UUF62wVtjd_ubafDEf8U1qk8H6DciaV6GDHbaFgft5lZ5OihHTYVGOH1kAIRFFlRhvrY-Zl7hqJLzcs0ZZfau7AJoQZmEnqeP3_ZW8alxqDji9koMyrNRlF7rF_Cw/s400/MonkeyDress.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5168539250610781682" /></a><br /><br />I'll have more to share in upcoming days as I experiment with some of the tools and techniques I saw and learned at the Knit Out.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31377367.post-60860619105621906762008-02-13T23:15:00.005-06:002008-12-11T07:07:15.205-06:00Simple Afghan PatternI've been asked so many times if the looms can be used to make an afghan, and if there's an easy pattern for one. I made this afghan as one of my first projects using the round Knifty Knitter looms. It is well-used and well-loved, but I'll show it to you anyway.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4wcJtFPM9Nm8NBl4ZeiiJmRexrdLQOjNNiHIkNRScAldKK6peyrFQO76IoitbZ4qSTr6_bbjBZqct39RQ4uEIRekCta8QfjHhw5vilxcK5JvdqeUZVrIRoUmeuX5eERLViUif_A/s1600-h/Afghan.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4wcJtFPM9Nm8NBl4ZeiiJmRexrdLQOjNNiHIkNRScAldKK6peyrFQO76IoitbZ4qSTr6_bbjBZqct39RQ4uEIRekCta8QfjHhw5vilxcK5JvdqeUZVrIRoUmeuX5eERLViUif_A/s400/Afghan.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5166536820893269394" /></a><br /><br />For this afghan, I used 8 skeins of Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick and Quick yarn in color Fisherman. It's about 44" wide and about 60" long. Here is what I did:<br /><br />All knit stitches are e-wrapped for the twisted stockinette stitch.<br /><br />Make two panels.<br /><br />Cast on with the e-wrap method to 41 pegs of the round yellow KK loom.<br />Row 1: Knit pegs 40 - 1.<br />Row 2: Knit pegs 2 - 41.<br />Repeat rows 1 - 2 until 190 rows are completed.<br />Bind off with the flat method. <br /><br />Sew the two panels together down the center. Weave in tails.<br /><br />~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~<br /><br />If I were to make the afghan again, I would put a <a href="http://loomknittingblog.blogspot.com/2007/11/no-curls-with-purls.html" target="_blank">garter edging</a> all around it to make it more finished looking, and to prevent the curled edges. The garter sides would have a slipped stitch edge for a pretty braid-look finish. The center seam side would have a selvedge edge. Here is what I would do:<br /><br />All knit stitches are e-wrapped for a twisted stockinette stitch.<br /><br />Panel 1 (garter edge is pegs 1 - 5; selvedge edge is at peg 41):<br />Cast on with the <a href="http://loomknittingblog.blogspot.com/2007/01/cable-cast-on.html" target="_blank">cable method</a> to 41 pegs of the round yellow KK loom.<br />Row 1: Knit pegs 41 - 1.<br />Row 2: Purl pegs 2 - 40, knit peg 41<br />Rows 3 - 6: Repeat rows 1 - 2 twice.<br />Row 7: Knit pegs 41 - 1<br />Row 8: Purl pegs 2 - 5, knit pegs 6 - 41 (Note: put markers on pegs 2 - 5 as a reminder to purl them.)<br />Repeat rows 7 - 8 88 times<br />Repeat rows 1 - 6.<br />Bind off with the <a href="http://loomknittingblog.blogspot.com/2008/02/flat-bind-off-method.html" target="_blank">flat method</a>.<br /><br />Panel 2 (garter edge is pegs 37-41; selvedge edge is at peg 1):<br />Cast on with the <a href="http://loomknittingblog.blogspot.com/2007/01/cable-cast-on.html" target="_blank">cable method</a> to 41 pegs of the round yellow KK loom.<br />Row 1: Knit pegs 40 - 1.<br />Row 2: Purl pegs 2 - 40, knit peg 41<br />Rows 3 - 6: Repeat rows 1 - 2 twice.<br />Row 7: Knit pegs 40 - 1<br />Row 8: Knit pegs 2 - 36, purl pegs 37 - 40, knit peg 41. (Note: put markers on pegs 37 - 40 as a reminder to purl them.)<br />Repeat rows 7 - 8 88 times<br />Repeat rows 1 - 6.<br />Bind off with the <a href="http://loomknittingblog.blogspot.com/2008/02/flat-bind-off-method.html" target="_blank">flat method</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.knitsimplemag.com/node/18" target="_blank">Sew the two panels together</a> in the center. Weave in tails.<br /><br />(Note: These instructions are what I <i>would do</i> if I were to make the afghan again. I haven't test knit these instructions. If you notice an error, <i>please</i> let me know!)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31377367.post-21507185766041843872008-02-11T11:34:00.000-06:002008-12-11T07:07:15.418-06:00KISSing cables<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm3l7Lv-GYxDBuFWNXc-IOIXKBOGlPd2sBsgmmrLqmMM_MCM3dZuHuKmmT2IPP5KHeTnLklreSKl5NJopYxzN8cS06bZVpMNScM0Z2gEM_XbR34srXcxRW3aeqMub1veGE4Bx3tA/s1600-h/KISSCable.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm3l7Lv-GYxDBuFWNXc-IOIXKBOGlPd2sBsgmmrLqmMM_MCM3dZuHuKmmT2IPP5KHeTnLklreSKl5NJopYxzN8cS06bZVpMNScM0Z2gEM_XbR34srXcxRW3aeqMub1veGE4Bx3tA/s400/KISSCable.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5165532605999856914" /></a>I had a goal when I was visiting Graciela: to knit a cable using the KISS loom. There had been some discussion among KISS loomers about whether it could be done. Of course it could; I just had to do it for myself.<br /><br />In some ways, cables are easier on KISS looms than regular looms. I found a cable needle wasn't necessary to hold loops while they are trading places. I just put the loops on the pins on the back board, moved the adjacent loops onto the vacated pegs, then moved the loops being held on the pins to the remaining empty pegs. Graciela did show me a trick which applies to cables on any loom -- e-wrap the pegs that have loops that will move. That gives a little extra length to the loops, making the stretch go a bit easier.<br /><br />The only glitch with the cables is the crossover portion happens between the pegs and the pins, so the knitting doesn't easily slide past the pins. Not a big deal -- after I knit a couple more rows past the crossover, I just held the loops on the pegs with a finger of one hand, and lifted the crossovers behind the pins with the hook tool.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31377367.post-39224412013904660702008-02-08T08:05:00.000-06:002008-12-11T07:07:16.646-06:00Flat Bind Off methodI've had a number of questions on how to do a flat bind off, so I thought I'd share this technique with you all. I made a single knit flat piece on a long loom because it was handy; this process applies to flat pieces and tubes on round looms as well.<br /><br />This method is the same as the Basic Bind Off used with needle knitting. You start by knitting two stitches, then pass the loop of the first stitch over the second stitch. Knit one more stitch, and pass the previously knit stitch over it. This gives a nice braided look to your bound off edge, and you can control how snug or stretchy the edge is by the tightness or looseness of the loops on the bind off row. <br /><br />For clarity, I knit the bind off row in a different color. (Click on the pics to see them larger.)<br /><br />Step 1: Wrap and knit off pegs 1 and 2. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC3vs8mYEPM3Flt81sTq7kMXm0irgIAwxL7HJZExWOrfXgHRsNxgrthCjLHtaWVm5cAUyfYmtD-n9k_xTiH9RXylOWMMU4lkdSdnYx7Bx2JvPyhrtdh1LqVsVi2fX-uuZ7YUvZxw/s1600-h/Flat1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC3vs8mYEPM3Flt81sTq7kMXm0irgIAwxL7HJZExWOrfXgHRsNxgrthCjLHtaWVm5cAUyfYmtD-n9k_xTiH9RXylOWMMU4lkdSdnYx7Bx2JvPyhrtdh1LqVsVi2fX-uuZ7YUvZxw/s400/Flat1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5163641236638951954" /></a><br /><br />Step 2: Move the loop on peg 2 to peg 1.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjumqpadEA1Z9XS4SPRxL_DzGCSoMS8D18PhYjNE-LH0xWHrCQg27UGpHNCZ_qUtZyW2ajo383_VFDjyHO2M2Chyphenhyphenf4z4VbZRcVRX2vIxC0sPRyO-G3CuppRSiGve4caQmXkRMEpwQ/s1600-h/Flat2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjumqpadEA1Z9XS4SPRxL_DzGCSoMS8D18PhYjNE-LH0xWHrCQg27UGpHNCZ_qUtZyW2ajo383_VFDjyHO2M2Chyphenhyphenf4z4VbZRcVRX2vIxC0sPRyO-G3CuppRSiGve4caQmXkRMEpwQ/s400/Flat2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5163644097087171154" /></a><br /><br />Step 3: Knit off peg 1 (bring the bottom loop over the top loop).<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv2MvBXTEx8PaSvrbGl9kfVxtN3pss11QFLFHbdX7dQLxTSLI9MTf5c4-Mu5lvUnoRGlb_FhRPWhaVg5V2RDz4Cqt0m-0_Pf-plZWIb5UZD_EBEuA1b4nNxO6sjbmizazsForx0w/s1600-h/Flat3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv2MvBXTEx8PaSvrbGl9kfVxtN3pss11QFLFHbdX7dQLxTSLI9MTf5c4-Mu5lvUnoRGlb_FhRPWhaVg5V2RDz4Cqt0m-0_Pf-plZWIb5UZD_EBEuA1b4nNxO6sjbmizazsForx0w/s400/Flat3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5163644109972073058" /></a><br /><br />Step 4: Move the remaining loop back to the empty peg. This peg is now peg 1.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx3ot5Ld-8PSnrMFoqFdCaMDd7VSiQ6GT01f8cludyFvUbo-4YSTekjmMFoJFHPjS0J4pEu0YWX8gPnhYUZkjp44cIFncnECmmOKiVODDW5Mt33JDJriNdXgv4W4nE7EPuAEePQA/s1600-h/Flat4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx3ot5Ld-8PSnrMFoqFdCaMDd7VSiQ6GT01f8cludyFvUbo-4YSTekjmMFoJFHPjS0J4pEu0YWX8gPnhYUZkjp44cIFncnECmmOKiVODDW5Mt33JDJriNdXgv4W4nE7EPuAEePQA/s400/Flat4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5163644118562007666" /></a><br /><br />Step 5: Wrap and knit off (the new) peg 2. (Note: this is where you control the stretchiness of the bound off edge -- the tighter the loop, the less stretch you will have.)<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie7XAQ7_vbPszhroOLO27u-hVBNV2uWYlLiW3JD6dv7vf0sdcQocAAbgpzaTtF1uL-fELee4fHpEiv3VfjEBcslXS7HgbFzH8STTg4LaW2JekqdMef3yhRZN7S9wyMnMSgdTbHhA/s1600-h/Flat5.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie7XAQ7_vbPszhroOLO27u-hVBNV2uWYlLiW3JD6dv7vf0sdcQocAAbgpzaTtF1uL-fELee4fHpEiv3VfjEBcslXS7HgbFzH8STTg4LaW2JekqdMef3yhRZN7S9wyMnMSgdTbHhA/s400/Flat5.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5163952931005557378" /></a><br /><br />Step 6: Repeat steps 2 - 5 until there is one loop left on the loom.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTdl81YPZoUFsbOjcRCu2Pf0HlzWcJcPmwCvcLo3sjaTUDvfAlCMGoJ8WyQmj3NfIbvTKsaM-tJeRVQYOVg6fdoA8Hl4MGIU2Y_DLn5l5Lw-lGYjgK9YQI0PcykRinaSqUMtBP4Q/s1600-h/Flat6.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTdl81YPZoUFsbOjcRCu2Pf0HlzWcJcPmwCvcLo3sjaTUDvfAlCMGoJ8WyQmj3NfIbvTKsaM-tJeRVQYOVg6fdoA8Hl4MGIU2Y_DLn5l5Lw-lGYjgK9YQI0PcykRinaSqUMtBP4Q/s400/Flat6.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5164329938939832978" /></a><br /><br />Step 7: Wrap the peg with the loop on it and knit off. Cut the yarn, leaving a 6" tail. Take the loop off the peg and pull on it until the cut end of the yarn comes through. Continue pulling until the loop is closed snug against the knit fabric.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKbIO5Cm1FH_afCkjac49Ye61ZpQrZV29fY8cwuA9jVi2KaQZvSMjUpcioEU5gZXYoZg1_jb7LaKXQRKrBUUeegiev0D_pUKs6sAWQ2GUpp4isgNBQECkMM_HDsrGmbCO2UBEPBQ/s1600-h/Flat7.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKbIO5Cm1FH_afCkjac49Ye61ZpQrZV29fY8cwuA9jVi2KaQZvSMjUpcioEU5gZXYoZg1_jb7LaKXQRKrBUUeegiev0D_pUKs6sAWQ2GUpp4isgNBQECkMM_HDsrGmbCO2UBEPBQ/s400/Flat7.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5164357890586995378" /></a><br /><br /><br />BTW, to put the braid of the bind off on the wrong side of the knitting, purl the pegs in steps 1 and 5 instead of knitting them.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn8OwFcBW1K4gz-IfnVUZBDhYsPa9-SxoMw-TwhhqkftVKfYppsqrhavxeSDZs0bhfwS9UJx5gDbJjrKt2fBHXoscYPTJEXYIAXCuK073-HmlbNqXddN5qtK0gExCYsf48MC6XKg/s1600-h/Flat8.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn8OwFcBW1K4gz-IfnVUZBDhYsPa9-SxoMw-TwhhqkftVKfYppsqrhavxeSDZs0bhfwS9UJx5gDbJjrKt2fBHXoscYPTJEXYIAXCuK073-HmlbNqXddN5qtK0gExCYsf48MC6XKg/s400/Flat8.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5164366467636685506" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31377367.post-57202872210886708672008-02-06T11:13:00.000-06:002008-12-11T07:07:17.136-06:00Visiting GracielaAlso over the holidays, I got together with Graciela Worth, who lives in the San Francisco Bay Area, where I grew up. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9T9X6bbXNMWsQf2ZGfoBQ-kLmdjOkRUh8LZqd1F_Y9e_9VknjGrYEuSt421SBQi3XSzwDlSp8qGJjRZ17qsWwtT9BYx_n-jcjqOau524S473mhtCG4sLSIows_ikvsoUF51Q3mg/s1600-h/Graciela-Worth.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9T9X6bbXNMWsQf2ZGfoBQ-kLmdjOkRUh8LZqd1F_Y9e_9VknjGrYEuSt421SBQi3XSzwDlSp8qGJjRZ17qsWwtT9BYx_n-jcjqOau524S473mhtCG4sLSIows_ikvsoUF51Q3mg/s400/Graciela-Worth.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5163128546392828402" /></a><br /><br />Graciela is very talented in many craft areas. She has many years of experience designing sweaters, including custom logoed sweaters she used to make and sell to local sports teams. She now spends all her free time with a knitting loom in her hands. When I was there, she had just finished another gorgeous <a href="http://gracielandcrafts.typepad.com/.shared/image.html?/photos/uncategorized/2008/01/06/gauge_447.jpg" target="_blank">loomed sweater</a>, to which pictures don't do justice. She used what she calls the <b>Slip and Purl stitch pattern</b>, and has graciously given permission for me to share that with you. This stitch pattern alternates columns of garter stitch with columns of elongated knit stitches.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2nuvKQjECKIjfrOzTck2cvDeVPMETQxuE7Ktt1Q62HebmhvNroCtgrmQBdDar5KTn3tVE7MViFYaG58fmGTJWf2QTRSSHEZfKY-BWdwpG9H5o8bjsSADJdQbKDK08rSvmirr4SQ/s1600-h/Skip-N-Purl.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2nuvKQjECKIjfrOzTck2cvDeVPMETQxuE7Ktt1Q62HebmhvNroCtgrmQBdDar5KTn3tVE7MViFYaG58fmGTJWf2QTRSSHEZfKY-BWdwpG9H5o8bjsSADJdQbKDK08rSvmirr4SQ/s400/Skip-N-Purl.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5163128550687795714" /></a><br /><br />Cast on to an odd number of pegs.<br />Row 1: Purl 2 pegs. *Bring the yarn behind the next peg to skip it. Purl 1.* Repeat from * to * until two pegs before the end. Purl the last 2 pegs.<br />Row 2: E-wrap and knit off all pegs.<br />Repeat rows 1 - 2.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31377367.post-78707590573923772892008-02-04T10:33:00.000-06:002008-12-11T07:07:17.492-06:00Visiting Markman FarmWhen I don't post, it's not because I haven't been doing anything, it's because I get way too busy! So I have some catching up to do...<br /><br />My holiday travels took me to Markman Farm, in the out of the way community of Standish CA. So rural that, according to Lynn Markman, if you hit an animal in the street, you reimburse the owner for the animal and pay for your own car repairs!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAnNJK4wfRNUrC1l_r3T92CuViRBSnbnnJiL-FTfxofrWCNaZwutLdADM5dsp4rr_iWQnZ-CE6bd8HWLIw5gEVwnB78_ReYbY9n5sdK773Z7iRypHUFd-E5vVYMcNK1rcvW3QPpw/s1600-h/Lynn-Markman.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAnNJK4wfRNUrC1l_r3T92CuViRBSnbnnJiL-FTfxofrWCNaZwutLdADM5dsp4rr_iWQnZ-CE6bd8HWLIw5gEVwnB78_ReYbY9n5sdK773Z7iRypHUFd-E5vVYMcNK1rcvW3QPpw/s400/Lynn-Markman.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5162986851126766050" /></a><br />Lynn and I spent a day loom knitting and sharing stories and techniques while our girls played with the sheep, llamas, chickens, dogs, cats and probably some other animals I missed. Lynn has a cozy business office in her farmhouse where she ships out the hand made looms with packets of patterns, and a shop right next door filled with wonderful gift items made by local artisans from scented soaps to cards to knit items and yarn made from her sheep. Everyone at her house was so friendly and welcoming that we could easily have moved in and stayed for a while.<br /><br />Lynn was experimenting with making dish clothes on fine gauge looms using crochet thread. She was using the <b>Chunky Braid Purl stitch pattern</b>, which she generously agreed to allow me to share with you. The resulting knit fabric has a 3-D texture; the e-wrapped pegs make a raised braid pattern on one side, and the reverse side looks like stockinette stitch.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFWWjQneFJQ7YY1NBW2W8BZSi5ys_ULkuPDsR0-fUR3UFo0r8B5h3UH7K4RQAZRz7MoYDW5fDAvLOBgiYFvCzfoHpPwRM9RVJgILMUIUrgYy42y-xLK3Nm_cnlovHgFb4ONufx4w/s1600-h/Chunky-Purl.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFWWjQneFJQ7YY1NBW2W8BZSi5ys_ULkuPDsR0-fUR3UFo0r8B5h3UH7K4RQAZRz7MoYDW5fDAvLOBgiYFvCzfoHpPwRM9RVJgILMUIUrgYy42y-xLK3Nm_cnlovHgFb4ONufx4w/s400/Chunky-Purl.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5162986842536831442" /></a><br /><br />Cast on to an odd number of pegs.<br />Row 1: E-wrap and knit off the first peg. Purl the next peg and e-wrap the peg after that. Do not knit off the e-wrapped peg. Continue purling and e-wrapping (no KO) to the end of the row.<br />Row 2: Repeat row 1. (Purled pegs get purled, e-wrapped pegs get wrapped again.)<br />Row 3: Repeat row 1, except e-wrapped pegs get knit off as 3-over-1.<br />Repeat rows 1-3.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31377367.post-57820812672945255512008-01-13T10:00:00.000-06:002008-12-11T07:07:17.749-06:00My book at Joann's<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnXRCFvU2ly5D-3YKUZQ6rnCof9LoEVsS606GFsRvFfRqPOVPPrwZlfofasHdqKLbETDvq6l734Ztn2mHc-dakOs04Zp1P7iEmANYmgyDxrVU1BQ5UITPHl2_F2E9I7B4_Osdxcw/s1600-h/Joann'sAd.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnXRCFvU2ly5D-3YKUZQ6rnCof9LoEVsS606GFsRvFfRqPOVPPrwZlfofasHdqKLbETDvq6l734Ztn2mHc-dakOs04Zp1P7iEmANYmgyDxrVU1BQ5UITPHl2_F2E9I7B4_Osdxcw/s400/Joann'sAd.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5155362827638678130" /></a><br /><br />I am so tickled! My book has been available at Joann's for a couple months. This week it's in their ad, for a good price too.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31377367.post-21101191183988716672008-01-11T10:29:00.001-06:002008-12-11T07:07:17.903-06:00Mom's Mittens<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaO1jFX1RkR4OLMGxoWoQBm-IA-I_tIzGwy-QTgb8wAUFvZyQSSWqbnIq-rWUb6xvWeKFobj4zTINNU1vZXKzYK8pxHi9J0SRi1EgeWlyJh0ATwXFG4n913oMODCiNB-FlotzlYQ/s1600-h/Mom's-Mittens.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaO1jFX1RkR4OLMGxoWoQBm-IA-I_tIzGwy-QTgb8wAUFvZyQSSWqbnIq-rWUb6xvWeKFobj4zTINNU1vZXKzYK8pxHi9J0SRi1EgeWlyJh0ATwXFG4n913oMODCiNB-FlotzlYQ/s400/Mom's-Mittens.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5154257346006360674" /></a><br /><br />Not to worry, my Mom wasn't left out. I made her a pair of mittens. Just in time, too, as snow is not common where they live!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31377367.post-76809438728014785412008-01-10T13:15:00.000-06:002008-12-11T07:07:18.069-06:00Calypso FeltingI was fortunate enough to be able to deliver my Christmas gifts in person to family members on the West Coast this year. Some of the gifts were slippers, to be felted of course. My parents have a new type of washing machine that made felting my Dad's slippers a challenge.<br /><br />The Calypso washing machine has no center agitator, and uses very little water. The clothing is washed by the bottom plate of the washing tub moving in a bouncing rolling type motion. In this situation, the slippers felted, but didn't shrink! (Hmmm this might be great for felting purses, to get very little shrinkage!)<br /><br />Some quick research on the internet on how to felt the slippers by hand found me with boiling water in one side of the split kitchen sink, and ice water in the other. Even shocking the yarn and hand agitating it didn't do much.<br /><br />So then I tried saturating the slippers in water, then running them through the dryer. It took three iterations of that to get them to shrink to the right size. Third try was a charm, and now my Dad has toasty toes!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio4Vth0_M0-p3HY0UmOqh1ShPZ50xScxt07DsN0cAJizzke5C3obv_23z62wr1isKowEt_MBsGWewIRDqad3wkQMqXxNiK5YOnMrDoPSty0VjolR8GUz-6xfCyRZZuzYzY88xKeQ/s1600-h/Dad's-Slippers.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio4Vth0_M0-p3HY0UmOqh1ShPZ50xScxt07DsN0cAJizzke5C3obv_23z62wr1isKowEt_MBsGWewIRDqad3wkQMqXxNiK5YOnMrDoPSty0VjolR8GUz-6xfCyRZZuzYzY88xKeQ/s400/Dad's-Slippers.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5154058562034999858" /></a><br /><br />These slippers were made with Lion Brand Felting Wool in Midnight Blue and Ocean Blues, with one strand of each held together as one. I like the resulting subtle color pattern.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0