Fabulous Needle Sale @ www.knitpicks.com

If you are looking to purchase new circular needles or...how about a set of interchangable circular needles?...

http://www.knitpicks.com/ has a great sale on these items, as well as great prices on yarn. You can sign up to receive their mailing catalog, too.

Check it out!!! This sale ends January 4th!

OK...It's Cold in Austin...

...Cold enough for wearing my felted wool hats! These hats were made from patterns from one of my favorite knitting books: Hip Knit Hats by Cathy Carron!

In These Times...Perhaps a Prayer Shawl Could Be a Comfort

Not only are we living in hard times...the reccession, the war, unemployment, but now another attempt to destroy lives and the U.S. morale by a botched skyjacking.

What can we do for comfort and security as knitters and citizens of the world? How about knitting a Prayer Shawl for a loved one or someone in need?

The story of the Prayer Shawl is quite unique:
Throughout the ages, shawls have come to symbolize shelter, peace and spiritual sustenance.
Since the inception of the Prayer Shawl Ministry in 1998, the members of this ecumenical organization have lovingly donated their time and talents by creating hand-knitted and crocheted shawls for those in need.

What started as a grass-roots movement has quickly grown into an international cause, with countless numbers of shawls being given to grateful recipients around the globe.

The Ministry's message of caring is simple, universal and enduring. And we have seen time and again that the creation and presentation of a prayer shawl, like all acts of generosity, enriches the giver as well as the recipient.

Developed by Janet Bristow and Victoria Cole-Galo, co-founders of the shawl ministry, this shawl is made with the trinity stitch.

Average size approximately 24. x 60.

MATERIALS
6 oz/185 yd skeins 3 skeins in color of your choice (or Knitted: 555 yards in the yarn of your choice.Crochet and larger shawls: 740 yards for longer shawls and 60+ stitches)
Your individual choices in yarn and needle/hook size will affect the finished size and thickness of the shawl, but there isn.t one .right. way. Because crochet uses more yarn than knit, a crochet shawl will be a bit smaller than a knit one made with the same number of yarn skeins. To make a larger one, start with a longer chain and use an additional skein.

Knit- Size 10.5 (6.5 mm) through 15 (10 mm) knitting needles
Crochet-Size N-13 (9 mm) or P-15 (10 mm) crochet hook


Knit Version
Cast on 63 stitches or any multiple of three, such as 54, 57, or 60.

First Row: k3, p3, to end*
Second Row: Always start the next row with the opposite stitch of what you see.
For instance, if the first stitch on the needle is a knit, then start with a purl.
KNIT THE PURLS AND PURL THE KNITS!!!
It should NOT look like ribbing.


Crochet Version
Loosely chain about 43 stitches.
First row Half-double crochet in third chain from hook and in each chain across.
Repeated row Chain 2, turn. Half-double crochet in each half-double crochet across.
Both Versions
Work about 2 1/2 skeins in this pattern. Use the rest of the yarn for fringe, which can be
from 3. to 9. long. Knot the ends of the fringes to keep the yarn from frizzing.
16 sts = 4" (10 cm) on size G-6

For more info: http://www.shawlministry.com/

Into the Woods Hat & Scarf Set from Lion Brand Yarns

This pattern was in The Weekly Stitch e-newsletter from Lion Brand Yarns. It's fast and fun! Dig the keyhole in the scarf!



MATERIALS
• 822-106 Lion Brand Alpine Wool: Blueberry
1 Ball (A) 3.00 oz./85 g (93 yd/85 m)
• 822-115 Lion Brand Alpine Wool: Chili
1 Ball (B) 3.00 oz./85 g (93 yd/85 m)
• 822-174 Lion Brand Alpine Wool: Olive
1 Ball (C) 3.00 oz./85 g (93 yd/85 m)
• Knitting Needles - Size 10 [6 mm]
• Stitch Markers
• Large-Eye Blunt Needle




GAUGE:
14 sts + 20 rows = 4 in. (10 cm) in St st (k on RS, p on WS). BE SURE TO CHECK YOUR GAUGE. When you match the gauge in a pattern, your project will be the size specified in the pattern and the materials specified in the pattern will be sufficient. If it takes you fewer stitches and rows to make a 4 in. [10 cm] square, try using a smaller size hook or needles; if more stitches and rows, try a larger size hook or needles.

NOTES:
STRIPE SEQUENCE: *With B work 2 rows, with C work 4 rows, with A work 2 rows, with B work 4 rows, with C work 2 rows, with A work 4 rows; rep from * for Stripe Sequence.
When working Stripe Sequence, carry unused colors along the side edge of the piece. At the end of every other row, twist working yarn around unused colors to secure strands.

HAT
With A, cast on 66 sts. Rows 1-4: Knit. Begin Stripe Sequence Rows 5 and 6: With B, work in St st (k on RS, p on WS). Continue in St st and Stripe Sequence until piece measures about 5 1/2 in. (14 cm) from beg, end with a WS row. Shape Crown Next (Dec) Row (RS): K7, k2tog, *pm, k2tog, k12, k2tog; rep from * 2 more times, pm, k2tog, k to end – 58 sts remain at end of row. Next Row (WS): Purl. Next (Dec) Row: *K to 2 sts before marker, k2tog, sm, k2tog; rep from * 3 more times, k to end – 50 sts at end of row. Next Row: Purl. Rep last 2 rows 5 more times. Cut yarn, leaving a long tail. Thread tail through rem 10 sts and pull to gather. Sew Hat seam.

SCARF
With A, cast on 28 sts. Rows 1-4: Knit. Begin Stripe Sequence Row 5 (RS): With B, knit. Row 6 (WS): With B, k3 (for Garter st edge), p22, k3 (for Garter st edge). Next Rows: Continuing in Stripe Sequence, rep Rows 5 and 6 until piece measures about 25 1/2 in. (65 cm), from beg, end with a WS row. Next Row (RS): K8, bind off 12 sts, k to end. Next Row (WS): K3, p5, cast on 12 sts over bound off sts of previous row, p5, k3. Continuing in Stripe Sequence, rep Rows 5 and 6, until piece measures about 32 1/2 in. (82.5 cm) from beg, end with a WS row. Next Rows: With A, rep Rows 1-4. Bind off.

FINISHING Weave in ends.


For more info:
http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/90372AD.html?noImages=&utm_source=20091225_Dec25&utm_medium=Emails&utm_campaign=Weeklynewsletter&utm_content=WinterAccessories-IntotheWoodsHatScarfSet

Reversible Rib Hat

Happy Holidays to All!

A different take on the usual beanie!

Materials:
Yarn: 100g/100yd 1 skein

Stitch Marker

Nedles: size 10 1/2 double pointed needles

Hat size: small (med/large) Finished: 15 1/4" (17 1/4) circumference, 8" height

Pattern:

CO 65 (75) sts. Join in rnd, don't twist yarn.

Rnd 1: *P4, K1, rep from* to end, work even (rep rnd 1) to 5" from beg.

Shape Top

Rnd 1: *P3, K2tog, rep from * to end {52 (60) sts}

Rnd 2: *P3, K1, rep to end

Rep last rnd 2 more times

Rnd 5: *P2, K2tog, rep from* to end {39 (45) sts}

Rnd 6: *P2, K1, rep from * to end

Rep last rnd for 2 more times

Rnd 9: *P1, K2tog, rep from* to end {26 (30) sts}

Rnd 10: *P1, K1, rep from * to end

Rep last rnd for 2 more times

Rnd 13: *K2tog rep from * to end {13 (15) sts}

Rnd 14: K1, *K2tog, rep from * to end {7 (8) sts}

Pull yarn thru all sts to close opening, weave in ends.

Potato Chip Scarf

A fun ruffle-ly scarf to dress up any outfit!

Materials:
4 balls yarn 143 yards/50 gr

Size 15 circular needles 24-32 inches

Pattern:

CO 200

Row 1: K

Row 2: KF&B each st (Knit in Front & Back)

Row 3-4 K

Row 5: KF&B each st

Row 6-7: K

Row 8: KF&B each st

Row 9: K

BO loosely

My Review of Anna Tote- A Great Knitting Bag!

Originally submitted at Timbuk2

Reversible, waterproof grocery/knitting tote.

Anna Tote

OMG! I never Leave Home Without It!

By marlat1112 from Austin, TX on 12/21/2009

4out of 5

Pros: Attractive, Easy Access, High Quality, Great Color

Cons: Straps Too Short, Not Enough Compartments

Best Uses: Everyday, great knitting bag!

Describe Yourself: Stylish, Comfort-Oriented, Practical, Modern, Career

A bigger pocket between the webbing would be great!

(legalese)

Chain Scarf

Yarn: Cascade 220- 1 ball of each

Needles: US 10 1/2 12"circular

Materials: Stitch markers

You can see my scarf is 16 links, but you can make yours as long as you want.

First Link

CO 32 sts. Place marker on RH needle for beginning of rnd.

Join, careful not to twist sts.

Beg St st (knit every rnd), work until piece measures 3" from cast on edge.

BO loosely.

Weave in ends

Rest of Links

CO as first link

Insert the LH needle tip through the center of last link, place marker at beggining of rnd. Join, careful not to twist sts.

Beg St st (knit every rnd), work until piece measures 3" from cast on edge.
BO loosely.

Cont until you have all the links and length you want. Make scarf approx. 6 feet.

Making the Ashford Shawl

On my December 8th post I have a pattern for an Ashford Shawl. Well, I'm making one of my own with 4 balls of Noro Furisode yarn.

Activewear Knitted Cotton Cowl

Are you active outdoors...even in winter? Or, do you know someone that is a runner even in inclimate weather? Well, this knitted cotton cowl will do the trick to keep out the chill.

SKILL LEVEL: Easy
SIZE: One Size
Finished Circumference About 26 in. (66 cm)
Finished Height About 11 in. (28 cm)


MATERIALS
Cotton Yarn weight: 3.00 oz./85 g (103 yd/94 m)
2 Balls or 210 yards of medium weight cotton yarn
Stitch Markers
Circular knitting needle size 10 (6 mm), 24 in. (61 cm) long

GAUGE:
12 sts = 4 in. (10 cm) in St st worked in the rnd (k every rnd). BE SURE TO CHECK YOUR
GAUGE. When you match the gauge in a pattern, your project will be the size specified in
the pattern and the materials specified in the pattern will be sufficient. If it takes you less
stitches and rows to make a 4 in. [10 cm] square, try using a smaller size hook or needles;
if more stitches and rows, try a larger size hook or needles.

STITCH EXPLANATION:
PATTERN STITCH
K2, p2 Rib (worked in the rnd, multiple of 4 sts)
Rnd 1: *K2, p2, rep from * around.
Rep Rnd 1 for K2, p2 Rib.

COWL
Cast on 80 sts. Join, being careful not to twist sts. Place marker for beg of rnd.
Work in K2, p2 Rib for 1 in. (2.5 cm).
Change to St st worked in the rnd (k every rnd) and work until piece measures about 10 in. (25.5 cm) from beg.
Work in K2, p2 Rib for 1 in. (2 cm). Bind off.

FINISHING
Weave in ends.

Squares and PomPom Scarf

Find a great yarn, and in Garter Stitch, knit 12 (or as many as you want) squares and with a pompom maker, make enough pompoms to connect the squares together as in the photo. this is a quick fun scarf that makes a great gift.

Which came first...the yarn or the coat?...

I have never gone into a yarn shop and have known exactly what yarn I was going to buy. I've always let the yarn "talk" to me. And from the yarn, projects evolve. And sometimes, after a project is completed, like a sweater or vest, I find I have nothing to wear with it, but eventually, without even thinking, I purchase a coat or a shirt that happens to go perfectly well with the knitted item.

Take in point the photos below:

I knit this scarf last year, because I loved the yarn; I just bought this coat a month ago and who knew????

So, in summary...go for the yarn, something will always match somewhere, at sometime!

Diamond Shaped Scarf

A diamond shaped scarf is quite versatile, you can wrap it around your neck or use it as a kerchief on your head.

Materials:
2 balls of novelty yarn 1.8 oz/50g= approx 165yds

size 11-13 needles

You will need 330yds of a yarn such as South West Trading Company's "Melody"

Gauge:
81/2 sts and 12 rows= 4" in Garter Stitch

Pattern:
The scarf is knit in a diamond shape by starting at one point.

CO 3 sts.

Bottom Half

Row 1: K1 inc1, K to end.

Rep Row 1 until 85 sts.

Top Half

Row 1: K2tog, K to end.

Rep Row 1 until 3 sts.

BO rem sts. Cut yarn and weave in ends.

Chunky Yarn Hat

This pattern is easy and fun! Use chunky yarn(s) that are gauged for size 13 needles.

This pattern will make a small/medium adult hat. 20-21"

Gauge 10 sts= 4" in St st

Materials

1-2 skein(s) chunky yarn- 100% wool

one set #13 dp needles or size to obtain gauge

stitch marker

tapestry needle

Knitting Rim and Hat

Loosely cast on 50 sts

Join rnd, being careful not to twist sts. Place stitch marker at end of rnd. (Slip marker to end of each new rnd as completed.

Rounds 1-5: Knit

Round 6: Knit

Round 7: Purl

Round 8: Knit

Round 9: Purl

Rounds 10-18: Knit

Rounds 19-22: Purl

Rounds 23-24: Knit

Decrease for crown

Round 1: Knit

Round 2: *K8, K2tog; repeat from* to end of rnd. (45 sts)

Round 3: *K7, K2tog; repeat from* to end of rnd. (40 sts)

Round 4: *K6, K2tog; repeat from* to end of rnd. (35 sts)

Round 5: *K5, K2tog; repeat from* to end of rnd. (30 sts)

Round 6: *K4, K2tog; repeat from* to end of rnd. (25 sts)

Round 7: *K3, K2tog; repeat from* to end of rnd. (20 sts)

Round 8: *K2, K2tog; repeat from* to end of rnd. (15 sts)

Round 9: K2togto last st, K1. (8 sts)

Finishing

Cut yarn. Thread end on yarn needle and pull through remaining sts. Weave in loose ends on inside of hat.

Noro Olivia Vest

As a native Chicagoan, I was used to knitting sweaters, hat, scarves and everything else with heavy thick yarns. Since living in Austin and having wool withdrawl, I had to find other yarns to knit with; and also as a big Noro yarn fan...I found that knitting with the Noro Kuereyon sock yarn was perfect for fall and winter down South!

The Olivia Vest pattern comes from the Noro book:

Noro Catwalk- Jenny Watson Designs Book 1

As you can see, it stripes as beautifully as the Noro Kuereyon yarn.

If you would like more information on this pattern, please email me.

...And sometimes it's the Pattern...Pearl Scarf

Pearl is a skinny scarf of Pearls that are created by increasing and decreasing at regular intervals. The tassels are encased within the first and last Pearl. I knit the scarf with Noro yarn.






One size

SIZE
Approximately 2” wide at widest point (side edges curl under) x 60” long (Including tassels)

MATERIALS
2 Skeins: Noro Kureyon Yarn
Fiber Content: Wool
Ball Weight: 50g
Yardage: 109 yds.
Texture: Plied Yarn
Worsted Gauge: 18(Stitches per 4.0 inches/10cm.)
Needle Sizes: 8-9 U.S. (4.5-5mm)
Care: Dry Clean According to Label



Straight knitting needles, size 9 (5.50 mm) OR SIZE TO OBTAIN GAUGE Tapestry needle

GAUGE
18 sts = 4”; 22 rows = 4” in St st
TO SAVE TIME, TAKE TIME TO CHECK GAUGE

PATTERN STITCH
Row 1 (RS): * K3 tog, rep from * across – 10 sts.
Row 2: Purl.
Row 3: Knit.
Row 4: Purl.
Row 5: * K in front, back, then front of next st, rep from * across – 30 sts.
Row 6: Purl.
Row 7: Knit.
Row 8: Purl.
Rep these 8 rows for Pat St.

SCARF
With straight needles, cast on 30 sts. Work even in St st for 4 rows, end on WS. Work even in Pat St until piece measures approximately 54” from beg, end on Row 8. Bind off.

FINISHING
Sew side edges of cast-on end of scarf tog up to second narrow stripe. Repeat on bound-off end.

Tassels (Make 2): Cut eighty 8” long strands of yarn and two 16” long strands. Put shorter strands tog and tie in the center with one longer strand. Thread ends of long strand into tapestry needle; insert ends into cast-on end of scarf and through second narrow stripe from the inside out. Pull tassel into sewn end of scarf so that cast-on end of scarf fits down over top of tassel. Wrap ends of strand in tapestry needle around scarf several times and fasten off securely. Pull end of scarf down over top of tassel as far as possible. Wrap second 16” long strand around first narrow stripe tightly and fasten off securely. The cast-on end of scarf will roll back slightly giving the appearance of a ruffled edge. Repeat on the bound-off end of scarf with second tassel.

Sometimes it's the Yarn That Makes it Amazing!

Even a simple scarf can look sensational by using amazing yarn(s).

With this scarf I used 10 different yarns and knitted long. I cast on 110 stitches and changed yarns every 3 rows.

PolarKnit Yarn w/ Classic Beanie Pattern

Another fun yarn in great colors and weight is from PolarKnit!

Using 2 balls of PolarKnit Chunky Weight, you can create a cute, fast and warm beanie hat!

Materials: 2 balls of PolarKnit™ (50g) -- shown in colors "Leap Frog" and "Mallard" - 1 ball of each color One set of Size 10.75 U.S. (7mm) double pointed needles.

HINT: If you knit with a very tight tension, it is recommended that you knit this pattern with Size 11 U.S. (8mm) double pointed needles. Size 10.75 U.S. (7mm) circular needles 16" long (optional)Size 11 U.S. (8mm) straight needle Stitch markers Tapestry needleAbbreviations: dpn = double pointed needles k = knit K2tog = knit two stitches together p = purl SSK = slip, slip, knit two slipped stitches together st(s) = stitch(es)

Directions:
1. Using your 8mm straight needle, cast on 64 sts.
2. Transfer these sts onto either your Size 10.75 U.S. (7mm) dpn or your Size 10.75 U.S.(7mm) circular needle.
3. Begin a rib pattern of K2, P2 and continue in the round. Knit this rib pattern until your hat measures 3 inches from the cast on edge (about 18 rows).

Directions To Decrease Crown:
1. The rest of the hat will be knit in stocking stitch.
Row 1: *K1, SSK, K11, K2tog, place marker* repeat three more times. (56 sts)
Row 2: Knit row.
Row 3: Knit row.
Row 4: *K1, SSK, K9, K2tog* repeat three more times. (48 sts)
Row 5: Knit row.
Row 6: Knit row.
Row 7: *K1, SSK, K7, K2tog* repeat three more times. (40 sts)
Row 8: Knit row.
Row 9: Knit row. (Switch to dpn if you are using a circular needle.)
Row 10: *K1, SSK, K5, K2tog* repeat three more times. (32 sts)
Row 11: Knit row.
Row 12: *K1, SSK, K3, K2tog* repeat three more times. (24 sts)
Row 13: *K1, SSK, K1, K2tog* repeat three more times. (16 sts)
Row 14: *K2tog* repeat until end of row, 8 sts will remain.

2. Break yarn and thread yarn through remaining stitches. Draw tightly and secure.Finishing: Always machine wash your finished garment to rid it of residual fluff.

And if you find you like knitting with PolarKnit Yarn, check out their Mega Yarn at:http://www.polarknit.com/itoolkit.asp?pg=YARN

Ashford Shawl

For those knitters that are just starting out or live in a really cold climate, make yourself an Ashford Shawl.

It's made with a Fisherman's Wool Yarn, like:

Lion Brand Yarn Fisherman' Wool
Weight Category: 4
8.00 oz./227 g (465 yd/425 m) size 9 needles

Authentic 100% Pure Virgin Wool with natural lanolin oil, or any other 100% wool yarn.

GAUGE:
18 stitches + 22 rows = 4 in. (10 cm) in Pattern stitch. BE SURE TO CHECK YOUR GAUGE. When you match the gauge in a pattern, your project will be the size specified in the pattern and the materials specified in the pattern will be sufficient. If it takes you fewer stitches and rows to make a 4 in. [10 cm] square, try using a smaller size hook or needles; if more stitches and rows, try a larger size hook or needles.


SHAWL Cast on 91 stitches. Row 1: Knit 1, *purl 1, knit 1; repeat from * across. Row 2: Knit. Repeat Rows 1 and 2 until almost all yarn has been used. Bind off.
FINISHING Weave in ends.

Amazing Yarn!

Lion Brand Yarn just came out with a very cool yarn at a great price!

AmazingTM YarnArticle # 825

"When you knit or crochet with this unique yarn, every row is a surprise. Mimicking the look of an expensive, hand-dyed yarn, the subtle patterns and shades that emerge as you work are truly Amazing. It has a soft, brushed texture and a lightweight construction that is warm, without being heavy, making it ideal for garments and accessories."

The colors are sensational!

Weight Category: 4 - Medium: Worsted-weight, Afghan, Aran Yarn
1.75 oz./50 g (147 yd/135 m)
53% wool, 47% acrylic
Gauge:Knit: 16 sts x 22 rows = 4 inches with size 9 (5.5mm) needles Crochet: 12 sc + 15 rows = 4 inches with size J-10 (6mm) hook

And you can make some "Amazing"-ly simple gifts for the holidays!

Lion Brand® AmazingTM Easy Hat and Scarf- Beginner

GAUGE:
18 stitches + 32 rows = 4 in. (10 cm) in Garter Stitch (knit every row). BE SURE TO CHECK YOUR GAUGE. When you match the gauge in a pattern, your project will be the size specified in the pattern and the materials specified in the pattern will be sufficient. If it takes you fewer stitches and rows to make a 4 in. [10 cm] square, try using a smaller size hook or needles; if more stitches and rows, try a larger size hook or needles.

NOTES:
3 skeins of yarn are used for the scarf, and 2 are used for the hat.

HAT Cast on 90 stitches. Work in Garter Stitch (knit every row) until piece measures 12 in. (30.5 cm) from beginning. Bind off, leaving a 12 in. (30.5 cm) tail.
FINISHING Fold piece in half and sew sides together. Weave tail through sts of bound-off edge and pull tight to gather top of Hat, knot securely. Pompom Following package directions, make a medium size pompom. Tie pompom to top of Hat. Weave in ends.

SCARF Cast on 32 stitches. Work in Garter Stitch (knit every row) until piece measures about 65 in. (165 cm) from beginning. Bind off.
FINISHING Weave in ends.

Check out more at: http://www.lionbrand.com/yarns/amazing.html

Easy Self- Fringing Shawl or Scarf

Materials: one to two skeins of yarn (it depends on whether you want to make a scarf or a shawl) and needles to match gauge. Circular needles are recommended.


You should do a gauge test to see how large your project will turn out.


Directions are for scarf first, followed by shawl in parentheses.

All rows are knit in garter stitch.


Cast on 6 (7) sts.


First half- increase rows


Row 1: knit
Row 2: K1 include next st by knitting into the front and back, place marker, K4 (5)
Row 3: K4 (5), slip marker to right hand needle, K to end of row
Row 4: K to 1 st before marker, inc, slip marker, K4 (5)


Repeat rows 3 and 4 until half the yarn is used or until scarf/ shawl is half a big as you want, ending with Row 3.


Second half- decrease rows

Row 5: K to 2 sts. before marker, K2tog, slip marker, K4 (5)
Row 6: Repeat row 3


Repeat Rows 5 and 6 until 7 (8) sts. remain

Finish:
Row 7: K1, K2tog, K4 (5)
Row 8: Knit
Row 9: K2tog, remove marker leaving 4 (5) unworked sts. on left-hand needle. Cut working end approx. 6 (7)' and pull through the st. just worked.


Unravel the unworked 4 (5) sts. forming the fringe. Knot fringe close to base if desired.

Hello Kindle Fans!

A warm welcome to all Kindle fans! I've had this blog for a while, and went to see the other knitting blogs for Kindle...and to my surprise, the knitting blogs had very few knitting projects on them. (there was one that was into fair isle patterns)

On this blog you will see completed projects, and patterns. Feel free to email me your quick knits and patterns. I look forward to seeing your quick knit projects as well.

And speaking of quick knit projects...

nothing is faster than a great ribbed beanie!

Brrr..cold in Austin this week!

There is a chill in the air! Time to take out the hat and scarf ! Finally I can wear wool in Austin!