Sensational Shirttail Update: The Five Most Fearful Words in Knitting

Here is the latest on our progress. Cheryl has finished both sleeves and is working on the back. She changed the design a bit by adding 2 slipped stitches, one on ether of the cables to frame them. I’ll let her explain in the next installment.

I have finished the back and the fronts and have done one cuff. The pattern combination is easy to follow without referring to the instructions, once you get going and quite fun! A bit of stockinette, a bit of Moss stitch and a cable every eight rows.

So I was moving along and really enjoying myself and then when I referred to the pattern for the next direction as I was working on the armhole, there they were, the five words that strike fear into the hearts of a knitter: AND AT THE SAME TIME!! Now, I have to change to Moss stitch on some of the stitches, decrease on the armhole side and for the fronts also decrease for the V-neck of the cardigan. Oh and by the way don’t forget to do the cable on the first row of the eight-row pattern repeat. YIKES!!

Over the years as I built my knitting skills I have learned that there are certain situations that just call for the simplicity of a piece of paper and a pencil. AND AT THE SAME TIME is one of them. Here is my method - I write out the number of rows in each pattern repeat-in this case the eight row repeat for the cable, and then write a letter to correspond with the direction, like a D for decrease. I also make a column on either side of the row number in this case one side of the number was for instructions on the armhole side and the other for the v-neck. As I complete each row I cross it out on the chart. It works well for me and both fronts were the same. So try it next time you see those five fearful words and you too can knit with joy and no fear!!

Happy Knitting,

Carole

Eliminate Holiday Horror

Frightened by what awaits you under the Christmas Tree?

We've taken the fear out of opening your gifts this holiday season. All you have to do is come in and fill out a "Holiday Wish List" and then let your friends and family know where you want them to shop.

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Don't delay! Come in and start shopping today. Your holiday happiness depends on it.

Gift Project #3 - Chunky Bias Cowl

Thanks go to Stacey for this great pattern. This fantastic cowl is knit on the bias on a size 15 needle and takes only two skeins of Ushya by Mirasol. You can also feel great about supporting a company that gives back. Here's a little info on the Mirasol Project.

"The philosophy behind the Mirasol Project is very simple, the Mirasol Project supports local communities in Peru through the sales of the Mirasol Yarn Collection.

Peru’s heritage and culture of textile artistry is rich and ancient. The Mirasol Yarn Collection includes yarn made from the animals tended by these communities for generations in the Peruvian highlands. Without them we would not have this beautiful yarn.

By purchasing the Mirasol Yarn Collection you are supporting the shepherds and their families ensuring the continuation of this tradition."

Happy Knitting!

My First Needlepoint Project is at the Finisher!

At the end of September I was lamenting about finishing some of my needlepoint canvasses before the dede Designs truck show arrived. Well, I finished the smallest project, a Christmas stocking ornament, and sent it off to the finisher this past week. I must say that it is awfully cute and can’t wait to see the finished project. The top photo is the completed project.

Now, the million dollar question is can I start on one of the two canvasses that I purchased from the dede Designs trunk show or do I act like a responsible adult and complete what I have already started? In one ear, I can hear Carole encouraging me to finish the coaster, and in the other ear I can hear Debbie saying go ahead, start that new canvass. And, then to add to my dilemma, the Cooper Oaks trunk show opens this coming Saturday. I’ve seen not one, not two but three canvases that I want. Oh, decisions, decisions! Right now, I better get stitching on the Andes orchid or the coaster before I have way too many needlepoint projects like my many, many knitting projects.

So I look forward to seeing you at the Cooper Oaks trunk show that runs from Saturday November 13, 2010 through December 4, 2010. Happy Stitching!

Gift Project #2 - Garden Scarf

During the month of November we are highlighting some of our favorite projects. We have chosen projects that are quick and easy. Best of all, they won't break the bank.

Garden Scarf

This little number is knit on either a size 13 or 15 and takes only 2 skeins of Garden.

Anne chose 2 different colors for her version and fashioned a shawl pin out of a couple of buttons and a stitch holder. Not so crafty? Don't worry, we have some lovely shawl pins in stock that will do the trick.

There are six fantastic colors to choose from.