tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36655211883291909012024-03-13T15:31:55.453-04:00Gaea CreationsAmandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876156663980416246noreply@blogger.comBlogger77125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3665521188329190901.post-88063824059633067592020-02-21T13:43:00.000-05:002020-02-21T15:14:56.002-05:00Mystery RevealedWell, it's been a few weeks since the release of the final "clue" for the <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/a-few-of-my-favorite-things-a-mkal" target="_blank">A Few of my Favorite Things</a> mystery knit along, so I think it's pretty safe for me to post finished photos.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dQnx6PyYrlg/Xk_3t5Ji2OI/AAAAAAAAEHM/cKIzxp4_eWM72ywnfiMFeHZQ-JU3pbOnACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Image_1%2B2020-02-21_08-15-20.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dQnx6PyYrlg/Xk_3t5Ji2OI/AAAAAAAAEHM/cKIzxp4_eWM72ywnfiMFeHZQ-JU3pbOnACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Image_1%2B2020-02-21_08-15-20.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Yarn choices from left to right: Gaea Creations Tori Sock in Apple Pickin', Beauregard Blue, and Embers; Malabrigo Rios in Arco Iris, English Rose, and Apple Green; Black Trillium Fibre Studio Lilt Sock in Super Happy Fun paired with Sweet Tea Yarns Sweet Sock in Dad's Worn Denim and Dreamsicle.<br />
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Gaea Creations Tori Sock:<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-skfYOqgby4E/Xk_35TCRkoI/AAAAAAAAEHw/VlmmbsFGUugmG80efRjr8RNJu2SCzGyiwCEwYBhgL/s1600/Image_4%2B2020-02-21_08-15-20.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-skfYOqgby4E/Xk_35TCRkoI/AAAAAAAAEHw/VlmmbsFGUugmG80efRjr8RNJu2SCzGyiwCEwYBhgL/s320/Image_4%2B2020-02-21_08-15-20.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Malabrigo Rios:<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VlFaLdjCPJc/Xk_3464VdMI/AAAAAAAAEHs/f0GtcR1v3mwoufWg4VQ1DvQkbU6puyxNACEwYBhgL/s1600/Image_3%2B2020-02-21_08-15-20.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VlFaLdjCPJc/Xk_3464VdMI/AAAAAAAAEHs/f0GtcR1v3mwoufWg4VQ1DvQkbU6puyxNACEwYBhgL/s320/Image_3%2B2020-02-21_08-15-20.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Black Trillium and Sweet Tea Yarns:<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SF9qDLk3jVc/Xk_34akTPKI/AAAAAAAAEHk/5yx5k7Hsfy8GJhevNfMcmuBSWhQzP83XACEwYBhgL/s1600/Image_2%2B2020-02-21_08-15-20.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SF9qDLk3jVc/Xk_34akTPKI/AAAAAAAAEHk/5yx5k7Hsfy8GJhevNfMcmuBSWhQzP83XACEwYBhgL/s320/Image_2%2B2020-02-21_08-15-20.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I've also knit two using leftovers--one in various fingering weight yarns and one in Cascade 220. Yes, that means I've knit this pattern FIVE times. The combination of short rows and mosaic really is that fun.<br />
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Clue #1 is a smallish triangle of modified garter stitch. <br />
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Clue #2 is the first mosaic section.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hOTn92OETEg/XlAcIUKJ8GI/AAAAAAAAEMw/YVI-j3tb-V0z-cwgnMKflGIwiABU6jsdwCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1802.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hOTn92OETEg/XlAcIUKJ8GI/AAAAAAAAEMw/YVI-j3tb-V0z-cwgnMKflGIwiABU6jsdwCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_1802.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Clue #3 is the big short-row section. This bit is so fun that I'm always sad when it's over.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zmXxn9EDVKw/Xk_34UqrfwI/AAAAAAAAEHo/tIe4STF2RHE3dlPyoEdG0LwoFBKBtKOTQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1801.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zmXxn9EDVKw/Xk_34UqrfwI/AAAAAAAAEHo/tIe4STF2RHE3dlPyoEdG0LwoFBKBtKOTQCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_1801.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
Clue #4 is more mosaic, but slightly different than the first.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JpW7l0KpSHI/XlAcIWU2aWI/AAAAAAAAEM0/a2ju4yb8WFw8-6kGy1DIkEGGFmHM0LLXQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1799.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JpW7l0KpSHI/XlAcIWU2aWI/AAAAAAAAEM0/a2ju4yb8WFw8-6kGy1DIkEGGFmHM0LLXQCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_1799.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
And finally, Clue #5 is the fun short-row edging.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZXHkLhMszlI/XlAcIb-OesI/AAAAAAAAEMo/c-OZxRyMNPoBb88h189fNSfR5GwnQfWFgCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZXHkLhMszlI/XlAcIb-OesI/AAAAAAAAEMo/c-OZxRyMNPoBb88h189fNSfR5GwnQfWFgCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_1800.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Wondering about good color combinations? Here are some fun Gaea Creations combos.<br />
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Option #1: This is the combo I used. Tori Sock in <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770019139/hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_9" target="_blank">Apple Pickin'</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/756146828/beauregard-blue-hand-dyed-yarn-merino?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank">Beauregard Blue</a>, and <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/756322674/embers-hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_10" target="_blank">Embers</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iLX3rQfnFEg/XlAg_56R5jI/AAAAAAAAENI/5G-h0zquaMYnpMj1hJEjlzUJTa6lmfdVQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/option1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="921" data-original-width="691" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iLX3rQfnFEg/XlAg_56R5jI/AAAAAAAAENI/5G-h0zquaMYnpMj1hJEjlzUJTa6lmfdVQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/option1.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-skfYOqgby4E/Xk_35TCRkoI/AAAAAAAAEHw/VlmmbsFGUugmG80efRjr8RNJu2SCzGyiwCEwYBhgL/s1600/Image_4%2B2020-02-21_08-15-20.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-skfYOqgby4E/Xk_35TCRkoI/AAAAAAAAEHw/VlmmbsFGUugmG80efRjr8RNJu2SCzGyiwCEwYBhgL/s320/Image_4%2B2020-02-21_08-15-20.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Option #2: <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770221029/lilac-breasted-roller-hand-dyed-yarn?ref=shop_home_active_2" target="_blank">Lilac-Breasted Roller</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/756146828/beauregard-blue-hand-dyed-yarn-merino?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank">Beauregard Blue</a>, and <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770226641/nebula-hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_4&sca=1" target="_blank">Nebula</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sBOpi9rWifA/XlAg_-1iOuI/AAAAAAAAENU/R3KDSLzfWMcaVR6E-FVlNiFepfJRhWmnACEwYBhgL/s1600/option2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sBOpi9rWifA/XlAg_-1iOuI/AAAAAAAAENU/R3KDSLzfWMcaVR6E-FVlNiFepfJRhWmnACEwYBhgL/s320/option2.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
Option #3: <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770202915/dance-party-hand-dyed-yarn-merino?ref=shop_home_active_5&sca=1" target="_blank">Dance Party</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/756146828/beauregard-blue-hand-dyed-yarn-merino?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank">Beauregard Blue</a>, and <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770226641/nebula-hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_4&sca=1" target="_blank">Nebula</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZS5aPwW0Hgk/XlAg_7491MI/AAAAAAAAENU/G-ivzkihGd4bxswEXxvElrM7vGNvjEzQQCEwYBhgL/s1600/option3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZS5aPwW0Hgk/XlAg_7491MI/AAAAAAAAENU/G-ivzkihGd4bxswEXxvElrM7vGNvjEzQQCEwYBhgL/s320/option3.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
Option #4: <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770218153/jupiter-hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_3" target="_blank">Jupiter</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/756146828/beauregard-blue-hand-dyed-yarn-merino?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank">Beauregard Blue</a>, and <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770226641/nebula-hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_4&sca=1" target="_blank">Nebula</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vBe5KfLY--0/XlAhAW-TDFI/AAAAAAAAENY/tBiPU-Hz40cuh-fE5pCBC1QZnV5pAjadQCEwYBhgL/s1600/option4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vBe5KfLY--0/XlAhAW-TDFI/AAAAAAAAENY/tBiPU-Hz40cuh-fE5pCBC1QZnV5pAjadQCEwYBhgL/s320/option4.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Okay, so this definitely reveals that there's a big gap in my color collection: I need more solids and semi-solids. 😁 But even with the limited range, these could make some gorgeous shawls! And if you have some other color ideas, I'd love to work with you to create your very own color combo!<br />
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In other news: Keep an eye out this weekend or early next week for a shop update! Here's a tiny look at what's coming:<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_cqZDRpNqhk/XlAjfiuE3YI/AAAAAAAAENg/qjxRr1U6-48MjY5R1k9avruUqDSBKJdVACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/cotdpeek.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="305" data-original-width="1431" height="68" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_cqZDRpNqhk/XlAjfiuE3YI/AAAAAAAAENg/qjxRr1U6-48MjY5R1k9avruUqDSBKJdVACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/cotdpeek.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876156663980416246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3665521188329190901.post-86226924150444827342020-01-17T10:22:00.000-05:002020-01-17T10:36:53.761-05:00The Biggest Announcement of 2020This announcement has been several months in the works, but I'm so
pleased and proud to inform you that I've opened an <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/GaeaCreations" target="_blank">Etsy shop</a> selling my
very own hand dyed yarns!<br />
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As many of you know, I've enjoyed
dyeing yarn with Kool Aid and other food dyes for many years. This fall,
I expanded by skills to include commercial acid dyes and absolutely
fell in love with the process. Color is my jam, and being able to create
exactly the yarn I want in exactly the colors I imagine is more fun
than I can tell you.<br />
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I'm starting off small with only three
yarn bases and twelve colorways. Dye batches are small--three skeins per
pan is pretty manageable. I know some dyers who say they do four per
pan, but I'm always happy with the results if I have no more than three.
So, you'll see small quantities for now. I'm happy to accept special
orders for larger quantities, though! Just email me!<br />
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How often
the shop is updated with new stock or new colorways or new bases depends
on you! Orders--including special orders and requests--drive
development!<br />
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<h2>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>The Bases</i></span></h2>
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These are all deliciously soft merino blends that take the dye
beautifully! I tested many different yarns before deciding to carry this
bases. I hope you love them as much as I do! </div>
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Tori Sock (yes, named after my daughter.)</div>
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75%
Superwash Merino / 25% Nylon</div>
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4-ply</div>
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463 yds /
100 g</div>
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Elaine Sock (named after my grandma. Y'all know how much I love sparkle? I got that from her.)</div>
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75%
Superwash Merino / 20% Nylon / 5% Stellina </div>
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2-ply</div>
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438 yds /
100 g</div>
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Christine
Worsted (named after my mom who, by example, taught me how to be a maker.)</div>
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100%
Superwash Merino</div>
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4-ply</div>
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218 yds /
100 g</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>The Colors</i></span></h2>
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Remember: These yarns are dyed by hand in small batches, and even skeins dyed in the same pot will differ a bit. If you're using more than one skein in a project, I recommend alternating skeins every few rows to balance out any color differences.</div>
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Now for what you've been waiting for! The colors!!</div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770019139/hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_4" target="_blank">Apple Pickin'</a> is a pale green background speckles of red, orange, and yellow. </div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770019139/hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_4" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770019139/hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_4" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dEpvdUqZ7Pg/XiG05U49rgI/AAAAAAAABh0/V8mniJoCnRICvfZ-EF7LcvokdfonNE1NgCEwYBhgL/s320/Apple%2BPickin%2BTrio.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/756146828/hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_5" target="_blank">Beauregard Blue</a> is a wonderful semi-sold with shades from bright blue to deep navy. And yes, the name comes from <a href="https://media.giphy.com/media/hSyyBgF9aXMCA/giphy.gif" target="_blank">THAT Beauregard</a>. This color on the Elaine base is absolutely stunning!</div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/756146828/hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_5" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.etsy.com/listing/756146828/hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_5" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DhXgxz-MeOo/XiG05W9qtcI/AAAAAAAABho/6uKoGYoxiTMT6V-kqyT4hRJcMUd7JtycQCEwYBhgL/s320/Beauregard%2BBlue%2BTrio%2B%25282%2529.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770202915/dance-party-hand-dyed-yarn-merino?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank">Dance Party</a> is just fun. It's an aqua base with speckles of violet, magenta, and yellow. To me, it looks like a really fun party. </div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770202915/dance-party-hand-dyed-yarn-merino?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770202915/dance-party-hand-dyed-yarn-merino?ref=shop_home_active_1" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G8LYihPzqgE/XiG05Ve9NUI/AAAAAAAABh0/USVYH6Ty6r8emBuYhb6RSQjNUQluko4BQCEwYBhgL/s320/Dance%2BParty%2BTrio.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/756322674/embers-hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_8" target="_blank">Embers</a>. Need I say more? With a range from brilliant yellow to orange to fiery red and even some bright pink, this knits up almost like a semi-solid.<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/756322674/embers-hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_8" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.etsy.com/listing/756322674/embers-hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_8" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8z8mRd3xa4g/XiG054fkrcI/AAAAAAAABhw/asC1VFIBrooxgV5XJUsE-hbLo5vSfUjqQCEwYBhgL/s320/Embers%2BTrio%2B2.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/756324424/funfetti-cupcake-hand-dyed-yarn-merino?ref=shop_home_active_7" target="_blank">Funfetti Cupcake</a> is inspired by the colors I always associated with my Grandma Martin. She LOVED pink and purple. I tossed a little bit of mint green in there for good measure. Also: she was a great cook and always had sweets on hand for the grandkids.<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/756324424/funfetti-cupcake-hand-dyed-yarn-merino?ref=shop_home_active_7" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.etsy.com/listing/756324424/funfetti-cupcake-hand-dyed-yarn-merino?ref=shop_home_active_7" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o2UbQPFFz1g/XiG06WdpXDI/AAAAAAAABhg/iKKgzNDC5iw7u8EPPwet-eXSJ6-etYRqwCEwYBhgL/s320/Funfetti%2BCupcake%2BTrio.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770214499/hydrangea-hand-dyed-yarn-merino?ref=shop_home_active_2" target="_blank">Hydrangea</a> was actually inspired by a specific photo of a hydrangea (of course). I love the way the leaf green and bright blue fade into the white that separates them. </div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770214499/hydrangea-hand-dyed-yarn-merino?ref=shop_home_active_2" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770214499/hydrangea-hand-dyed-yarn-merino?ref=shop_home_active_2" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0_w-gUf5SM8/XiG0692j53I/AAAAAAAABh0/ztk0a7EleoUT_uduoJmcRRWi3MOX-Nc8ACEwYBhgL/s200/Hydrangea%2BTrio%2B2.jpeg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sTP-sPW41cg/XiG9TJBVFtI/AAAAAAAABiM/Uy94jSlWVBAEsRVeTBmoRYjGQKapPqzlgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Hydrangea.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1380" data-original-width="1239" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sTP-sPW41cg/XiG9TJBVFtI/AAAAAAAABiM/Uy94jSlWVBAEsRVeTBmoRYjGQKapPqzlgCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/Hydrangea.png" width="179" /> </a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770218153/jupiter-hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_6" target="_blank">Jupiter</a> is my daughter's signature colorway. She sent me the photo below, enhanced with colors we don't usually see in Jupiter pics. I think it's lovely! And it also looks particularly amazing on the Elaine base. </div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770218153/jupiter-hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_6" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770218153/jupiter-hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_6" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-neqIHYKNuqw/XiG07bQBuuI/AAAAAAAABhk/-zEmQzGZCaUlpcmRkGQbW8uvJ30nZv8ZACEwYBhgL/s200/Jupiter%2BTrio.jpeg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qm2hZntvNLg/XiHEia-ApWI/AAAAAAAABik/Mc3PJ-vMa30Uh8xt7-KCY7R_TnxGjcLPwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Jupiter.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1020" data-original-width="975" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qm2hZntvNLg/XiHEia-ApWI/AAAAAAAABik/Mc3PJ-vMa30Uh8xt7-KCY7R_TnxGjcLPwCLcBGAsYHQ/s200/Jupiter.png" width="190" /> </a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770221029/lilac-breasted-roller-hand-dyed-yarn?ref=shop_home_active_11" target="_blank">Lilac-Breasted Roller</a> is a bird that's native to sub-Saharan Africa. I've had this photo on my "Colors" board on Pinterest for years, without ever knowing what kind of bird it was.When I decided to make it a colorway, I figured I needed to find out! Of course, this photo has been enhanced at some point to make him look a bit more neon than the birds really are, but I love it!</div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770221029/lilac-breasted-roller-hand-dyed-yarn?ref=shop_home_active_11" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770221029/lilac-breasted-roller-hand-dyed-yarn?ref=shop_home_active_11" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I-ai34mYbM8/XiG074GXg3I/AAAAAAAABho/MxBqHEn4ivsWLhlUVjmWCMWoBwOOgZ45QCEwYBhgL/s200/LBR%2BTrio%2B2.jpeg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H20r5q42rg4/XiHIS0Q_etI/AAAAAAAABi8/MuTVJMQJPSQtQWgrsKdn7torlgFk2L93ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/lilacbreastedroller.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="425" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H20r5q42rg4/XiHIS0Q_etI/AAAAAAAABi8/MuTVJMQJPSQtQWgrsKdn7torlgFk2L93ACLcBGAsYHQ/s200/lilacbreastedroller.jpeg" width="132" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770223393/macaw-hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_10" target="_blank">Macaw</a> is inspired by macaw feathers, of course!<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770223393/macaw-hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_10" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770223393/macaw-hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_10" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4cDnWr1Q_sI/XiG08Y_algI/AAAAAAAABhw/Nul4qBmXPrk8lVuf1JMr0RmDlZJYtKq5ACEwYBhgL/s200/Macaw%2BTrio.jpeg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6eY9nxOeqXs/XiHIS8wVuYI/AAAAAAAABjI/nvVWk3RQU7E7URSdeTW4s6jZJdFWPehXACEwYBhgL/s1600/macaw.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="466" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6eY9nxOeqXs/XiHIS8wVuYI/AAAAAAAABjI/nvVWk3RQU7E7URSdeTW4s6jZJdFWPehXACEwYBhgL/s200/macaw.jpeg" width="133" /> </a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770224671/mango-hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_9" target="_blank">Mango</a> is inspired by my mom. I honestly don't know how she feels about mangos. My son picked the name. BUT, when I asked my sisters what colors they thought of for Mom, they said, "Deep red, orange, gold." I also realize that, if you're into that kind of thing, the colors match those used in a certain magical house. Also a certain local high school. </div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770224671/mango-hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_9" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770224671/mango-hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_9" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U7xu1FPoSrk/XiG08ywy6WI/AAAAAAAABhs/1c3_PJlVMy0eq60RDlUO4C6D3J4EImlVwCEwYBhgL/s320/Mango%2BTrio.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770226641/nebula-hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_3&sca=1" target="_blank">Nebula</a>. I came up with this color just by playing around and experimenting with pink and purple color combinations. When my son saw it, he instantly said, "Nebula." I think he's right. On the Elaine base, the sparkles look like stars!</div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770226641/nebula-hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_3&sca=1" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770226641/nebula-hand-dyed-yarn-merino-fingering?ref=shop_home_active_3&sca=1" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MXlKxU_MhgQ/XiG09dnsw5I/AAAAAAAABh0/HPbuaxCv0bQ7WbA3WYTI0m6gXDyrn-gYACEwYBhgL/s200/Nebula%2BTrio.jpeg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iFp1zEHQ8yc/XiHLWS6hmHI/AAAAAAAABjc/yPE5K7-CnikkUizsJ_HqWIG4_CCZADktgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/lagoon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="641" data-original-width="936" height="217" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iFp1zEHQ8yc/XiHLWS6hmHI/AAAAAAAABjc/yPE5K7-CnikkUizsJ_HqWIG4_CCZADktgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/lagoon.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770227825/pastel-pop-hand-dyed-yarn-merino?ref=shop_home_active_12" target="_blank">Pastel Pop</a> is probably my favorite. As I was dyeing it, my husband said, "Bomb pop!" and I said, "No! It's pink and white and aqua, not red, white, and blue!" But, I could see where he was coming from. So we agreed on Pastel Pop as the name of the color. </div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770227825/pastel-pop-hand-dyed-yarn-merino?ref=shop_home_active_12" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.etsy.com/listing/770227825/pastel-pop-hand-dyed-yarn-merino?ref=shop_home_active_12" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PapxbWhnY2U/XiG09zIDQpI/AAAAAAAABh4/lF70GEX21Y40yXwNd7q7qzEl_IvbCxX4wCEwYBhgL/s320/Pastel%2BPop%2BTrio.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Don't see a color that does it for you? Contact me at amanda AT gaeacreations DOT com! I'd love to work with you to develop a color you love. </div>
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876156663980416246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3665521188329190901.post-6212875565347707182019-12-01T13:11:00.000-05:002020-02-21T10:21:07.403-05:00Sneak PeekIf you subscribe to my email newsletter, you probably saw this sneak peek already. If you don't subscribe to my email newsletter, you can do so <a href="https://mailchi.mp/835c9ff01859/gaeacreations?fbclid=IwAR1M6nD7rHcsrI4JMwQHqhnyPznJJpOJb1iZanZ5H-JC_QjsQWyHPAtE-b0" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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I have some fun things planned for 2020. My previous post was about one of them: The MKAL! I'm really excited about that, and MANY thanks to those of you who have already purchased the pattern and contacted me to sign up for the class!<br />
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Another big thing coming in 2020 is....well, I can't tell you exactly what it is because I'm still working out the details. But if you follow me on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/GaeaCreations1/" target="_blank">Facebook</a> or <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gaeacreations/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, you can probably put two and two together and figure it out....but for now, know this: I'm putting a lot of work into the "behind the scenes" aspect of this and will have a big fun announcement when everything is ready to go.<br />
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In the meantime, enjoy this eye candy. <br />
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<br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876156663980416246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3665521188329190901.post-18218463010151502552019-11-29T13:07:00.002-05:002019-11-29T13:07:47.776-05:002020 Mystery Knit AlongIn August, I started brainstorming fun ways to kick of 2020. I came up with a few ideas, but I'm just going to talk about one for now: 2020 Mystery Knit Along (MKAL)!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>What is an MKAL?</i></span></h2>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">An MKAL is a really fun way to knit a project without having any idea what it's going to look like before you start. The designer (sometimes!) tells you what the project will be and some other details--like yarn requirements, needle size, gauge--and then releases the pattern instructions a little at a time. That way, you can't read ahead, and you have no idea what's coming next! It's very fun! Is it sometimes very disappointing? Yes! Honestly, I've participated in many MKALs and only once was I disappointed with the results. But the nice thing about yarn is that you can rip it out and use it again for something else, which is exactly what I did. Typically, though, you can look at the designer's other work and have a pretty good idea if their designs are a good fit for your taste or not. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">What type of MKAL will this be?</span></i> </span></span></h2>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you know me at all, you know I love shawls. I kind of have a shawl obsession. So, this will be a shawl. I will tell you these things: </span></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">It is a triangle that is mostly symmetrical in shape.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">It is not symmetrically knit. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">It features three stitch patterns:</span></span></li>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Modified Garter Stitch</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Mosaic Color Work</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short Rows </span></span></li>
</ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">It is written for fingering or worsted weight yarn. Both weights will result in similarly sized shawls. You may use a different weight if you like, but it will affect both yarn requirements and finished size.</span></span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">What else can you tell me?</span></i></span></span></h2>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Well, I'm calling this "A Few of My Favorite Things" shawl because the stitch patterns are a few of my favorites. I love the way modified garter stitch stripes look. I enjoy knitting mosaic color work. And, this short row method is so fun! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">The shawl is designed for three colors that contrast well. In my samples (which you cannot see because it would give away the mystery!), I used a variegated or speckled yarn for Color A and solids or semi-solids for Colors B and C. If you opt for this, I recommend that B and C coordinate with but do not exactly match any of the colors in A. That said, all three colors can be semi-solids or solids. You can use as few as two colors, or you can use more. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">For the fingering weight sample, I used</span></span><span lang="en-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 119%;"><span style="font-size: small;"> about 400 yards each of </span>Color A (center): Black Trillium Fibre Studio Lilt Sock in Super Happy Fun; Color B (right): Sweet Tea Yarns Sweet Sock in Dad’s Worn Denim; Color C (left): Sweet Tea Yarns Sweet Sock in Dreamsicle. </span></span><span lang="en-US" style="language: en-US; mso-ligatures: none;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><br />
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For the worsted weight sample, I used about 315 yards each of Malabrigo Rios in Color A(center): Arco Iris; Color B (right): English Rose; and Color C (left): Apple Green.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">OK, I'm intrigued. How do I sign up?</span></i></span></span></h2>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Easy! You can <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/a-few-of-my-favorite-things-a-mkal" target="_blank">purchase the pattern on Ravelry</a>! When you purchase the pattern, an information document will be added to your Ravelry Library (just like any purchased pattern). That information sheet includes materials requirements and the first bit of the instructions--the first small section of the shawl that also makes an excellent gauge swatch. Then, additional instructions will be added to that document on January 7, 14, 21, and 28. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you'd like a bit more social interaction and instruction with your MKAL, I'm also teaching it as a class! You still need to <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/a-few-of-my-favorite-things-a-mkal" target="_blank">purchase the pattern on Ravelry</a>, but I'll walk you through the entire process of knitting the shawl in person. Class will meet at Northend Community Center on Tuesdays, January 7, 14, 21, and 28, 7-9pm. Cost for the class is $80. To sign up, just shoot me an email at gaeacreations1 AT gmail DOT com.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><i> </i></span>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876156663980416246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3665521188329190901.post-25839418571730450042019-11-27T10:19:00.000-05:002019-11-27T11:49:19.575-05:00Favorite Stuff for Knitting and Yarny Goodness I've been thinking a lot lately about simplifying everything. Life feels so complicated sometimes, and simplifying where I can just makes sense. Simplifying means different things to different people. To me, it means getting things out of the way that are keeping me from feeling comfortable in my own space and being able to get things done easily and as effortlessly as possible.<br />
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With this goal in mind, I went through my bathroom and got rid of expired products, stuff I knew I was never going to use, old makeup, etc., etc.. I need to do this in my kitchen. Like, big time. How many measuring cups does one person need? Apparently I think I need ALL of the measuring cups. Same with wooden spoons and tongs.<br />
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This got me thinking about my craft supplies, including my knitting supplies. I'm much more hesitant to get rid of craft and art supplies than I am with pretty much anything else. They don't go bad! I have them well-organized! Don't touch my watercolor paper! STEP AWAY FROM THE YARN!<br />
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So here's the thing. I have found that there are some things I really can't live without when it comes to knitting and yarn.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>1. Yarn</i></span></h2>
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I know: DUH! I often say my real hobby is collecting yarn, and I just happen to also knit a lot. Do not ask me to cull my yarn stash, because it will not happen. I love all of my yarn. Also: I am a yarn snob. If it's mostly acrylic, I won't touch it. I just don't like the way acrylic feels. I prefer natural fibers, with a real focus on protein fibers (wool, alpaca, mohair, cashmere, silk). I don't own a lot of cotton or linen, though I do have times when I enjoy working with those. I have my stash very well organized and inventoried. I can pretty easily put my hands on the yarn I'm looking for without too much digging. Over the summer, I even made labels for my yarn containers to make locating what I need even easier!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>2. Knitting Needles</i></span></h2>
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This is another duh, but hear me out. Every knitter has their favorite knitting needles, right? But we have a tendency--at least I do--to collect many different kinds of needles. At one point, I had lots of nickel-plated needles, bamboo needles, and other wooden needles. Several years ago, I found out I'm highly allergic to nickel, so I got rid of all of my nickel-plated needles. A couple of weeks ago, I realized I still have a lot of needles I just avoid because I don't like their join or their tips aren't pointy enough. So, I pulled out the needles I avoid and put them in a small box. My favorite needles are <a href="http://www.knitterspride.com/Materialwise-Details.asp?id=1&mcid=1" target="_blank">Knitter's Pride Symfonie Dreamz</a> fixed circulars or interchangeable. I love the join. I love how pointy they are. I love the smoothness of the finish. Yes, they still have a little metal on them, but I can live with it because that part is usually covered with yarn. My point to all of this: I have reduced my needle collection down to just what I enjoy using, which makes my life easier. I also moved from a hanging circular needle holder in an armoire to zipped binder pouches in a glittery pink binder. I even made labels for the pouches with my Cricut. It's super fun, and I have my needles right next to where I do most of my knitting. Simplify!!!<i> </i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>3. Ball Winder and Swift</i></span></h2>
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I know many knitters who don't own ball winders or swifts, and they are perfectly happy with life. I have three ball winders. Two are the classic <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001L8DL4C/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">plastic ball winder</a> you see at most yarn shops. They are small and portable and easy to use. The other is a larger <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0078T6KQY/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">metal ball winder </a>that winds large balls. The descriptions says "up to 10 oz," but I've wound larger balls without any problem. I love this ball winder and highly recommend it. I have it set up on my secondary craft table at all times. The swift I own is the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/She-Lin-Wooden-Umbrella-Swift-Winder/dp/B077TD8XRX/ref=sr_1_10?keywords=yarn+swift&qid=1564082750&s=gateway&sr=8-10" target="_blank">classic wooden swift</a> (this link isn't the exact one I have, but it's darn close), but the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Tebery-Umbrella-Winder-Operated-Knitting/dp/B07JYC778V/ref=sr_1_9?keywords=yarn+swift&qid=1564082849&s=gateway&sr=8-9" target="_blank">metal and plastic ones</a> are probably fine for at-home use.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>4. Stitch Markers</i></span></h2>
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In my years of teaching knitting, I've discovered that I'm maybe a bit pickier about stitch markers than most knitters. I really prefer the thin, rigid plastic discs, which I used to get from River Knits and now can't find online, so I can't give you a link. Instead, I'll give you a photo.<br />
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<i> </i><br />
I'm also a sucker for pretty beaded stitch markers. I don't usually enjoy using them as much because they're a little fiddly for me, but they are pretty. So I use them sometimes. I really love this TARDIS set I got from <a href="https://www.brendaandheatheryarns.com/" target="_blank">Brenda and Heather Yarns</a> at the <a href="https://www.thefiberevent.com/" target="_blank">Fiber Event</a>.<br />
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One kind of stitch marker I absolutely cannot live without is a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Bulk-Buy-Clover-Locking-Stitch/dp/B0033P5AMW/ref=sr_1_10?keywords=knitting+stitch+markers+clover&qid=1564145805&s=gateway&sr=8-10" target="_blank">locking stitch marker</a> that looks like a plastic safety pin. I use these so much! In fact, I just ordered <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0756SQJ38/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">this off-brand collection of 300 </a>of them from Amazon. We'll see how they hold up. I rarely use this as on-needle markers. Instead, I use them to mark my place. I tend to be a row-counter, especially when it comes to matching sleeves or socks or mittens--anything that comes in twos. So it's not uncommon for a sleeve to look like this:<br />
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This project (Boxy by Joji Locatelli) has 5 different skeins of handpainted yarns. So, I marked my transition rows and "solid" rows. I couldn't have done this without these amazing locking markers.<br />
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I know you're saying, "But what about <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Clover-347-Split-Ring-Markers/dp/B000YQGLOY/ref=sr_1_27?keywords=knitting+stitch+markers+clover&qid=1564146303&s=gateway&sr=8-27" target="_blank">split ring markers</a>?" Answer: I hate them. They fall out way too easily. I will admit that I have a few, but I only use them once in a great while. Like if I see a mistake that needs to be fixed on the next row, I'll put a spit ring marker on the spot to mark it temporarily. Otherwise. No. I don't like them. I also strongly dislike rubbery stitch markers that can stretch or bend or stick to my needles. Oh! One more thing: I mostly use small gauge needles (I don't like working with anything much over a US7), so I prefer smaller stitch markers too. I hate using a large stitch marker on a small needle.<br />
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Using the right stitch markers for ME makes my knitting life easier! Once you find something that works for you, it's perfectly fine to stick with it and be a curmudgeon about it, like I am with stitch markers.<br />
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<h2>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>5. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003J02K60/?coliid=I2BK0KL0OJ7O1W&colid=369X55IHLMN51&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it" target="_blank">Susan Bates Silvalume Handi Tool</a></i></span></h2>
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This little guy is so handy. I've used it to pick up stitches, make a chain for a provisional cast on, work Emily Ocker's cast on, fix a pulled stitch, fix a snag on a finished garment, and more. I've linked you to Amazon, but if you have a local yarn shop, check there. Amazon has these marked up a lot, and you can probably get it at your LYS for less than $2.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>6. Apps for my iPad and iPhone (also available for Android devices)</i></span></h2>
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<i></i>
<a href="https://www.knitcompanion.com/" target="_blank">KnitCompanion</a> is, hands down, the most necessary app in my life. You can have all of my other apps. I have to have KnitCompanion. It's free to download and try, but it's 100% worth the $14.99 per year subscription rate. I never use paper patterns anymore. Everything is in KnitCompanion. In KC, I can set up charts, row-by-row instructions, take notes, easily refer to abbreviations and other necessary information, and so much more. It also helps familiarize me with a pattern before I cast on, which is always a good thing.<br />
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<a href="https://www.sortly.com/" target="_blank">Sortly</a> is an inventory app that I've found extremely useful for keeping track of my yarn stash (along with other collections like fabric, sewing patterns...and I just realized I could use it to keep track of knitting magazines, books, patterns, pattern booklets, etc.!). I'm kinda weird in that I like having an easily navigable inventory of stuff that I collect. So much so that I'm actually looking forward to working with my husband to inventory his vacuum tubes and possibly other components. So, why do I like having a yarn inventory on my phone? When I'm shopping for yarn, I can check to see what I already have, including colors and dye lots. I have photos for everything, which makes it easier to find other yarns that might coordinate. It also helps when I find a pattern I love because I can see if I already have yarn that will work for it. Now for the sort-of down side: Sortly has a monthly subscription price of $4.99 if you want to enter more than 100 items. To me, it's worth it because I keep track of more than just my yarn, and I'll be expanding to add other inventories as well. [Edited to add: Sortly has recently changed their subscriptions, and the $4.99/mo option is no longer available. As a legacy user, I can continue at that rate. If I weren't a legacy user, I would not sign up with Sortly now. I will likely be searching for a different app. Eventually, I'm sure they will discontinue the legacy support.] Umm..yes, I also maintain my yarn inventory in <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/people/gaeacreations/stash?sort=weight&search=" target="_blank">Ravelry</a> and in Excel. Why do you ask?<br />
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Apps for listening to stuff. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Amazon-Music-Apps/b?ie=UTF8&node=2658409011" target="_blank">Amazon Music</a>, <a href="http://www.downcastapp.com/" target="_blank">Downcast</a>, <a href="https://www.audible.com/" target="_blank">Audible</a>, <a href="https://www.chirpbooks.com/home" target="_blank">Chirp</a>, <a href="https://www.hoopladigital.com/" target="_blank">Hoopla</a>, and <a href="https://meet.libbyapp.com/" target="_blank">Libby</a>. Those are my six most-used listening apps. Amazon Music is (duh) for music. Downcast is a podcast app. I know many are happy with the native podcast app on their iPhones, but I wasn't. I've been using Downcast for years and love it. Audible and Chirp are audiobook apps. Hoopla and Libby are apps that work with my local library to borrow audiobooks. I don't watch a lot of TV, so while the others in my house are watching TV, I'm usually listening to a podcast or audiobook.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>7. Ravelry</i></span></h2>
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I almost didn't add this here because it's such an obvious thing, but I figured if I added yarn and needles, I better add <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/" target="_blank">Ravelry</a>. I use Ravelry for so much, I don't know how I existed before...well, I do. I had lots of binders full of patterns, project notes, yarn inventories... you get the picture. So much paper! Enter Ravelry: I can buy PDF patterns and open them in KnitCompanion for use. I can sell my own patterns (to enable me to buy more patterns by other designers). I can keep track of all of my projects. I can look up projects done by other people to see how they look, if they ran into any problems, or if they made any alterations. I can connect with other knitters who might have similar interests to mine. Doctor Who? Yep. Animal Crossing? Yep. Curling? Yep. You name it, there's probably a group for it!<br />
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I know someone is probably wondering how I feel about Ravelry since they made their <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/content/no-trump" target="_blank">anti-racism policy change on June 23</a>. I fully support it. Trump and his administration have proven themselves to be highly supportive of white supremacy. Regardless of your own personal beliefs, support of the Trump administration is undoubtedly support for white supremacy. You may not consider yourself a white supremacist or a racist, but you are certainly supporting them if you support him. So, I support Ravelry, and that's that.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>8. A Good Lamp</i></span></h2>
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It doesn't have to be an expensive lamp, but I need good lighting when I'm knitting anything much more complicated than stockinette or garter stitch. Yes, I have a simple stockinette project just for movie theater knitting. At home, I have <a href="https://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/00447213/" target="_blank">this lamp from IKEA</a> clamped to the end table. (I actually have an older version of this.) I can shine it directly at my knitting so the rest of the room can be dark, which is how my family likes it for watching TV or playing video games. And I use a bulb with relatively low <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lumen_(unit)" target="_blank">lumens</a>. I think what I'm using now is an LED that roughly equal to a 25W or 40W incandescent bulb.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>9. A Supportive Spouse/Partner/Housemate</i></span> </h2>
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I cannot stress this enough. There are times when all of the floor space in our bedroom is taken up by blocking shawls, or the kitchen and dining table are inaccessible all weekend because I'm dyeing, or we have to turn down an invitation because it's the same day as The Fiber Event, or any other number of things related to yarn. My husband is fully supportive. Why? Because he has his own interests and side hustles that affect our life together, so he gets it! I have plenty of friends whose partners are not as supportive. They won't allow them to have a large yarn stash. They complain if there are knitting projects left on the coffee table. They expect to be able to use the kitchen to prepare a meal. (😉Yes, we can use our kitchen to prepare meals....just not while I'm dyeing...) I guess what I'm saying is this: My husband makes my life easier by being supportive of my interests and activities.<br />
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So there you have it: the nine things I can't live without that all work together to make my life easier, simpler, and much better.<br />
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PS: I'm planning a big announcement Friday, so be sure to check back!! <br />
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876156663980416246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3665521188329190901.post-86069400266555754332019-10-25T16:27:00.001-04:002019-10-25T16:27:40.744-04:00Yarny Fun<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span data-offset-key="1btba-0-0"><span data-text="true">Many of you know that I enjoy (and have even taught classes about) dyeing with Kool Aid. A few weeks ago, I decided to play around a little bit with Kool Aid again. I had some white worsted weight and fingering weight yarn, and I wanted to try dyeing some true self-striping and gradient yarns. There are a handful of ways to accomplish this, but I decided the knitting blanks would be a fun way to play. So, I ordered a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07SRMGCQL/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">hand-crank, 40-needle knitting machine from Amazon</a>. (For some reason, I haven't taken a picture of it....) It's a finicky little tool, but once I got it figured out, I was off to the races! I made four 50g tubes of fingering, one 100g tube of fingering, and two 100g tubes of worsted. I laid them out on my kitchen table, mixed up my Kool Aid, and had some fun. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jePxpKYCsSM/XbNSbQsPKCI/AAAAAAAABZA/ToUpuHZ_ALAxaBq4m0wIAsHLSQQmZyhJgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Image_2%2B2019-10-21_19-03-29.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jePxpKYCsSM/XbNSbQsPKCI/AAAAAAAABZA/ToUpuHZ_ALAxaBq4m0wIAsHLSQQmZyhJgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Image_2%2B2019-10-21_19-03-29.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-22nFig87jMI/XbNSfu3ervI/AAAAAAAABZE/Xf_nHgBw0TEOCQuVBC1dGv6U9PkelyTrACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Image_3%2B2019-10-21_19-03-29.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-22nFig87jMI/XbNSfu3ervI/AAAAAAAABZE/Xf_nHgBw0TEOCQuVBC1dGv6U9PkelyTrACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Image_3%2B2019-10-21_19-03-29.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span data-offset-key="1btba-0-0"><span data-text="true">The picture below of
my yarn steaming might look pretty familiar to those of you who
attended the River Knits Retreat a couple of years ago.</span></span> <br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D0LleHJdEsI/XbNP-YIVQXI/AAAAAAAABYw/ROqGE5TEwIEOmV9WN1v6U8Pm7FiUsyL9wCEwYBhgL/s1600/Image_5%2B2019-10-21_19-03-29.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D0LleHJdEsI/XbNP-YIVQXI/AAAAAAAABYw/ROqGE5TEwIEOmV9WN1v6U8Pm7FiUsyL9wCEwYBhgL/s320/Image_5%2B2019-10-21_19-03-29.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span data-offset-key="1btba-0-0"><span data-text="true">After steaming and drying them, I decided I wanted them in skein format (even though you can knit directly from the blank). I'm blessed with a dad who is an amazing woodworker, and he made me a skein winder so I wouldn't have to use a niddy-noddy! </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KoitjjN1A18/XbNTrIG4VpI/AAAAAAAABZk/Jtzlwvjn3OcdX3ESqcB850SOLEX59liiACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Image_4%2B2019-10-21_19-16-19.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KoitjjN1A18/XbNTrIG4VpI/AAAAAAAABZk/Jtzlwvjn3OcdX3ESqcB850SOLEX59liiACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Image_4%2B2019-10-21_19-16-19.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span data-offset-key="1btba-0-0"><span data-text="true">This fabulous tool makes winding skeins go so much faster! But look at how kinky they are!</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QbE5Z7O5Q4w/XbNTrBVOxlI/AAAAAAAABZg/-sqDN9Xl7uEdWVUOM_ZuLgSUK6EOXJksgCEwYBhgL/s1600/Image_1%2B2019-10-21_19-11-13.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QbE5Z7O5Q4w/XbNTrBVOxlI/AAAAAAAABZg/-sqDN9Xl7uEdWVUOM_ZuLgSUK6EOXJksgCEwYBhgL/s320/Image_1%2B2019-10-21_19-11-13.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span data-offset-key="1btba-0-0"><span data-text="true">A little soak and hanging to dry straightened them right out. Below, from top to bottom: two 100g skeins of worsted in self striping cool and warm colors, respectively; two 50g skeins of self-striping fingering weight (shown above on the table); two 50g skeins of fingering dyed in rainbow gradients; one 100g skein of fingering dyed in a long rainbow gradient. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pwyhN-wk1BE/XbNP24QZkWI/AAAAAAAABYs/nsNcu08PE3AjRWBdNXsRGxdszoqjLXYdACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Image_7%2B2019-10-21_19-14-56.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pwyhN-wk1BE/XbNP24QZkWI/AAAAAAAABYs/nsNcu08PE3AjRWBdNXsRGxdszoqjLXYdACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Image_7%2B2019-10-21_19-14-56.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span data-offset-key="1btba-0-0"><span data-text="true">Y'all. This was so much fun! But I found myself wondering what kinds of effects I could get if I had "real dye." Note: Kool Aid is a real dye. It dyes yarn beautifully and safely, but it does have some limitations. There are a limited number of colors, and color mixing to expand the pallet is disappointing. For example, if you mix cherry (red) and mixed berry (blue), you won't get purple. The red will take up very quickly, and the blue won't take up much at all. </span></span><br />
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<span data-offset-key="1btba-0-0"><span data-text="true">So, I went to <a href="https://www.mybluprint.com/" target="_blank">Bluprint</a> (formerly Craftsy Unlimited) and watched a couple of classes. <a href="https://www.mybluprint.com/playlist/10629" target="_blank">Professional Yarn Dyeing at Home</a> and <a href="https://www.mybluprint.com/playlist/11381" target="_blank">Next Steps in Yarn Dyeing</a> were both very helpful. Last weekend, I dyed some mini skeins (that I made with my awesome skein winder!), and you guys? I'm in love.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R4Q4_F1Lk04/XbNXy8zEFQI/AAAAAAAABZ8/on_74oCljl45i0IMZIBgnyE9Abl-t7xsACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Image_3%2B2019-10-21_19-11-13.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R4Q4_F1Lk04/XbNXy8zEFQI/AAAAAAAABZ8/on_74oCljl45i0IMZIBgnyE9Abl-t7xsACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Image_3%2B2019-10-21_19-11-13.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I took this basket of bare yarn (the grey ones have stellina in them! SPARKLES!!!), and dyed tons of samples, playing with color mixing, depth of shade, and fiber content.<br />
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<span data-offset-key="1btba-0-0"><span data-text="true">Pure colors in jars in a water bath, ready to steam:<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--8wynpgTH9Q/XbNXzUJXA4I/AAAAAAAABas/s_YWGLSkHtQqfjnUG82OuhYUyVd6mckrQCEwYBhgL/s1600/Image_4%2B2019-10-21_19-13-33.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--8wynpgTH9Q/XbNXzUJXA4I/AAAAAAAABas/s_YWGLSkHtQqfjnUG82OuhYUyVd6mckrQCEwYBhgL/s320/Image_4%2B2019-10-21_19-13-33.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Mixed colors, after steaming:<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jM7LszlU5qI/XbNXzFofhKI/AAAAAAAABag/J9Nj8neSTrcW3Y5EWrsHHk4zaIiCCDBRwCEwYBhgL/s1600/Image_2%2B2019-10-21_19-14-56.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jM7LszlU5qI/XbNXzFofhKI/AAAAAAAABag/J9Nj8neSTrcW3Y5EWrsHHk4zaIiCCDBRwCEwYBhgL/s320/Image_2%2B2019-10-21_19-14-56.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></span></span><br /><span data-offset-key="1btba-0-0"><span data-text="true"></span></span><span data-offset-key="1btba-0-0"><span data-text="true">Sparkle yarn, ready to steam: <br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--YknrViH3ac/XbNXz7nWhwI/AAAAAAAABag/CmacVccywwI7W_xScyeaSy_EurACTvlhgCEwYBhgL/s1600/Image_4%2B2019-10-21_19-14-56.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--YknrViH3ac/XbNXz7nWhwI/AAAAAAAABag/CmacVccywwI7W_xScyeaSy_EurACTvlhgCEwYBhgL/s320/Image_4%2B2019-10-21_19-14-56.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
Here's the same basket, filled with all of my little sample skeins. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H1DKUEKO88g/XbNX9-BhufI/AAAAAAAABaw/c4bCzqNo3ZcAvqUOhBhqUVKERmV8-6G3QCEwYBhgL/s1600/Image_3%2B2019-10-25_11-06-56.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H1DKUEKO88g/XbNX9-BhufI/AAAAAAAABaw/c4bCzqNo3ZcAvqUOhBhqUVKERmV8-6G3QCEwYBhgL/s320/Image_3%2B2019-10-25_11-06-56.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
Now I have some ideas for how I want to do some full skeins and projects I'd like to knit with them. Guess how I'm going to spend my weekend! <br /><br />
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<span data-offset-key="1btba-0-0"><span data-text="true"><br /></span></span>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876156663980416246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3665521188329190901.post-45430580301575886212019-06-06T08:47:00.001-04:002019-06-06T08:47:59.640-04:00River Knits Closing; Gaea Creations hoping to continueAs you likely know, River Knits is closing its doors forever on July 3. Many people have asked me if I plan to continue teaching knitting classes. I would very much like to continue, and I'm exploring some options for locations. The only classes I will be teaching in July and August are the currently-running Year Long Afghan classes. I hope to have a few fall classes, though, starting in September. If you would like to stay in the loop via email, you can sign up here: <a href="https://mailchi.mp/835c9ff01859/gaeacreations">https://mailchi.mp/835c9ff01859/gaeacreations</a>. I've also created a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Gaea-Creations-2357097637943983/" target="_blank">Gaea Creations Facebook page</a> where I'll post updates. I promise I'm better at keeping my knitting students updated than I am at updating this blog. :) Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876156663980416246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3665521188329190901.post-91212946246626691722017-03-16T10:38:00.000-04:002017-03-16T10:38:49.190-04:00Finding my Inner ArtistOne of the things I've always wanted to do is paint. I've done craft painting in the past, and I've enjoyed a couple of evenings at Painting with a Twist. (That's a super fun way to spend a couple of hours! I highly recommend it!) But I've never really explored painting much. I didn't even take an art class in high school.<br />
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So, after my first Painting with a Twist experience just after Christmas, I went to Craftsy and purchased a couple of painting classes. And didn't watch them until about three weeks ago. Because I'm a weirdo like that. So I went to the craft store and picked up a table-top easel, some paints, and a couple of canvases.<br />
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This is my little work space in my bedroom. The table was purchased by my grandparents when they got married in 1940! I love it, and it gets covered with a vinyl tablecloth when I'm crafting.<br />
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I also checked out a bunch of books from the library. In one of them, the author mentioned her "art journal." I wondered what that was, so I Googled it.<br />
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Holy crap.<br />
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How have I not heard of art journaling until now?! This is some seriously inspiring, creative, amazing stuff! So back to the library's website I go and find a bunch of e-books about art journaling. Then, back to the craft store for more supplies.<br />
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I actually made two more trips after this one because I kept reading about things I wanted to try!<br />
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Saturday, I spent a good portion of the day painting and working on my first art journal page. I painted one canvas, and my mom instantly claimed it, saying it would look great in her bedroom. Moms are supposed to do that, right?<br />
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I thought it seemed sort of childish, but I had fun doing it, and it loosened me up. I also spent this time learning how to tell my inner critic/fear to shut the hell up. It didn't really matter what I made. I just wanted to follow my heart and keep my brain out of it. I showed it to an acquaintance and she said it reminded her of Matisse. That made me feel pretty good. Not gonna lie.<br />
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Once that was completed, I turned my attention to my new art journal. I had already covered one page with gesso to prepare it for acrylics. (It's a watercolor pad.) I had an idea in my head of what I wanted it to look like. I knew I wanted to make the earth in the center using the same painting technique I had learned when painting the background of the dandelion painting (above) at Painting With a Twist.<br />
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It gives the feeling of "the world" without having to be too exact. I was pretty pleased with it. My daughter later suggested that I could have used a large round stencil to have a more even edge around the circle. But, I like the unevenness of it.<br />
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Then I used red and yellow to paint the rest of the background and walked away for a while to allow it to dry. My intention was to use a black pen to draw and write the words, but when I saw the fully dried background I changed my mind. Enter: metallic gold paint pen.<br />
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It was so much fun, and I'm pretty pleased with how it turned out. I'm looking forward to spending some more time with my art supplies. This weekend, I'll be experimenting with watercolors. I've also decided to take a couple of art classes at our local community center starting in April. I'm really excited about all the possibilities that are laid out before me! <br />
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876156663980416246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3665521188329190901.post-55056182595304597002017-02-10T08:52:00.000-05:002017-02-10T08:52:14.168-05:00MosaicHave I ever mentioned how much I love mosaic knitting? It's freaking brilliant. You create this amazing colorwork, but only use one color at a time, slipping the stitches you want to be in the opposite color. It can be done on garter or stockinette stitch, so the possibilities are endless. It just so happens I'm wearing mosaic socks today.<br />
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Pattern: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/masonry-4" target="_blank">Masonry by Kate Gilbert</a>. Yarn: <a href="http://www.cascadeyarns.com/cascade-Heritage.htm" target="_blank">Cascade Yarns Heritage</a> in Marine and <a href="http://www.straw.com/crystalpalaceyarns/yarns/sausalito_card.html" target="_blank">Crystal Palace Yarns Sausalito</a> in Big Sur.<br />
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I also have a mosaic cowl on the needles.<br />
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Pattern: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/earth-weave-cowl" target="_blank">Earth Weave Cowl by Kim Sequeira</a>. Yarn: <a href="http://www.cascadeyarns.com/cascade-Cascade220.htm" target="_blank">Cascade 220</a> in various colors. <br />
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Now I'm eyeing the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/optimist" target="_blank">Optimist Shawl by Lisa Hannes</a>. Here are the colors (Cascade Heritage again) I'm planning to use. Don't they just scream "OPTIMISM!!!" I love light, bright, happy colors.<br />
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I'll very likely start that one this weekend.<br />
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What knitting techniques are you particularly fond of? What techniques would you like to learn?Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876156663980416246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3665521188329190901.post-77086026540250704652017-02-07T13:44:00.001-05:002017-02-07T13:44:48.850-05:00ResolutionsHi Everyone! (Ha! See how I said that like someone is actually reading this?)<br />
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So, here's what's going on in my life right now: a week before Christmas, I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. It sucks. I was shocked. My A1C levels had never been elevated before. Now, suddenly, they were high enough to make me diabetic. I tried not to think about it too much because it was Christmas! But, I knew that as soon as the holidays were over, I needed to make some major changes.<br />
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Enter New Year's Resolutions. I didn't resolve to lose weight. I didn't resolve to exercise. I didn't resolve to overhaul my life. I resolved to do just one thing: DO WHAT'S RIGHT FOR ME. In ALL things. Not just for my physical health, but for all of me. My mental and emotional health. My need to be creative. My life. I'm not setting specific resolutions. Instead, I am making decisions as I go using that one resolution as a guiding light: do what's right for me.<br />
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So far, it's working for me. I'm spending more time with friends. I've started painting a bit. I've drastically reduced the amount of time I spend on social media. I've started seeking out unbiased news sources. I've almost entirely eliminated excess sugar from my diet. (Seriously: I used to eat Apple Jacks for breakfast. Every day. There's a damn lot of sugar there, which resulted in me wanting sugar the rest of the day. Switching breakfasts to a protein-packed, delicious breakfast sandwich drastically reduced my sugar cravings.) I've started loving my body exactly as it is. I'm not worried about losing weight. I'm done focusing on that. DONE. (It's really quite liberating to say that.) If it happens, great. If not, that's fine too. As long as I know I'm doing what's right for me, that's all that matters.<br />
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So here I am, determined to live my best life. Determined to do what's right for me in all things. You should watch and see what happens. Part of my plan is to write more here. I'll still talk a lot about knitting and my other creative endeavors, but there might be some more personal stuff too. Stick around. Let's see what I do. Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876156663980416246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3665521188329190901.post-74161356549532789062016-08-08T15:34:00.000-04:002016-08-08T15:34:26.509-04:00ReinventionsWow....I can't believe it's been nearly a year since I last wrote. I mean, I knew it had been a long time....<br />
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But, do you smell that? Take a deep breath. Let it fill your being. It's change. Change is in the air, and that means it's time for reinvention.<br />
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I turned 42 a few days ago. My daughter is heading to college in less than a week. My son starts high school next week. My life is about to change a lot. That makes this the perfect time to reexamine my life and what I want from it. Who am I? (A creative being who wants to spend all of her time making things.) What do I want to be when I grow up? (Well, I don't want to grow up....and I'm not sure what I want to be, but I don't see myself staying where I am forever.) What do I want out of life? (Happiness, joy, surprise, wonder, a little bit of comfort, love.) How do I get that? (By working toward it every day.) But how?<br />
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That's the big question, isn't it? HOW?<br />
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About a month ago, I started a pretty amazing journey toward self-discovery, self-acceptance, and self-love. I was feeling down a lot. I was so overwhelmed with this feeling of inadequacy and a lack of desire to really DO anything. I felt like there was an enormous amount of negativity coming at me from every direction.....so many words and so much energy that wasn't positive. And it reflected in me. I was wearing a lot of black, not making a lot of effort to look nice, and not really caring about any of it. I wasn't knitting or really creating at all. I'd come home from work, put in my earbuds to listen to an audiobook and play Yahtzee with Buddies or puzzle games on my iPhone or iPad. It wasn't good. (Note: I'm not saying these are bad things to do. They just weren't good FOR ME.)<br />
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So, a month or so ago, I decided I needed to do something to get myself out of this funk. I went with a bit of advice from <i>Big Magic</i> by Elizabeth Gilbert. In her book, she says that you need to be attractive for creativity. You can't lay around in pajamas you've had on for 3 days and hair that hasn't been washed in longer and expect the magic to come. You have to make an effort.<br />
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I remembered seeing a link to something called Dressing Your Truth on Pinterest. So, I went digging. Turns out I pinned that link more than a year ago. LOL! I read more about it and thought, "Well, this sounds like fun, so I'll just do it and see where it goes." (Please know that this is not a commercial for DYT. I'm just sharing my experience.)<br />
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I started watching the Energy Profiling videos and knew right away that I'm a Type 1. I mean, it's not even possible I could be anything else. It describes everything about me when I'm not trying to be someone I'm not: optimistic, happy, bright, bubbly, positive, expressive, outgoing, youthful. Even so, I watched the rest of the videos.... I felt a slight connection with all of the Types, but I'm so obviously a Type 1. Then I read <i>Dressing Your Truth; Discover Your Type of Beauty</i> by Carol Tuttle (creator of DYT). Yep! Definitely a Type 1.<br />
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Then, I ponied up and bought the DYT course. (I'm going to tell you about it, but this isn't really the important part of what's happening in my life...it just supports it.) I wasn't thrilled with the color pallet for a Type 1. Bright, sunshiny yellow is the signature color....I had literally never worn yellow in my life because I had been told it would be a terrible color for me. Tints were the name of the game (which means any pure color that has had white added to it). I always thought I preferred rich, deep, dark colors. Then I started cleaning out my closet. Ruthlessly.<br />
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Here's the before: <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fjpiPTQ8PBs/V6jVNPXhgLI/AAAAAAAABOs/4s7ppGtihDMMeyye0Rh4_blCSeorBvWJwCK4B/s1600/before.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fjpiPTQ8PBs/V6jVNPXhgLI/AAAAAAAABOs/4s7ppGtihDMMeyye0Rh4_blCSeorBvWJwCK4B/s320/before.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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Really awful, right? So many clothes, many which weren't being worn ever. What a mess. (Also, yes, I realize I'm blessed with a giant walk-in closet. In this picture, you are seeing a bit less than half of it. Hubby uses the other half.)<br />
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Here are the after pics:<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0kUwpt6qur8/V6jWLCe5iII/AAAAAAAABPE/GntwX7Wf0l4vt8po7fDQtnI-MpjP9TuJACK4B/s1600/after%2B1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0kUwpt6qur8/V6jWLCe5iII/AAAAAAAABPE/GntwX7Wf0l4vt8po7fDQtnI-MpjP9TuJACK4B/s320/after%2B1.JPG" width="320" /></a> <br />
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Pretty amazing, right? (I need to recover my chair with a Type 1 fabric...) And there is NO BLACK. (Items that look black in the picture are actually either navy blue or dark chocolate brown.)<br />
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Anyway, I was really really ruthless. I took out 3 trash bags full of clothes for Goodwill, along with several pairs of shoes. I will admit that I kept a laundry basket of clothes I wasn't quite ready to part with yet...but it's now been a couple of weeks, and I don't miss those clothes at all. They will likely be on their way out of the house soon. (If you've done DYT and you are a Type 4 who wears a 14/16 top and 18/20 bottom, I probably have some great black stuff for you.)<br />
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After cleaning out my closet, I went shopping. End of season clearance is the bomb. I had so much fun!! I don't remember ever having this much fun shopping for clothes! I was able to quickly pick things that followed the Type 1 guidelines. And guess what! They all looked great on me!! I even tried on YELLOW and LOVED IT!!! <br />
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Here's the really amazing thing: DYT has a "5 compliment guarantee." They promise that you will receive at least 5 compliments in the first 30 days of dressing your truth. I had that many on the first day. Seriously. And even the way complete strangers responded to me changed (possibly because my way of responding to them changed). I don't even know how to describe how wonderful it was/is. I smile at people, and they smile back. I feel like before, I would smile but no one would respond, and I was just invisible. But maybe it's hard not to smile back at someone who is wearing a bright, sunshiny yellow blouse and turquoise jewelry. :) <br />
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So, while changing the way I dress and present myself to the world physically was a wonderful and much-needed step in my life, it was just the tip of the iceberg. I've been immersing myself in the Living Your Truth way of living. I'm currently trying to figure out my secondary Energy Type. I thought it was Type 4, but I'm not so sure.... But, I'm also learning more about my dominant Type 1 Energy. I'm learning that so much of what I've seen as my weaknesses are really my strengths. Yes, I'm optimistic and maybe a little naively so, but I bring hope and joy. Yes, I'm chatty and bubbly, but I bring people together and try to include everyone. I look in the mirror now and I see beauty and light and joy, not flaws that I used to see. I literally look in the mirror and see hearts and stars and circles in my features and think, "Wow! I am beautiful!" It's a really nice change.<br />
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My husband (in classic Type 2 fashion) didn't really say anything until I said, "So, you may have noticed that I've been dressing differently." Then he opened up and said that yes, he'd noticed and that he'd also noticed that I seem more present than I have in a while. I told him I was tired of looking and feeling like a schlump. He said, "Well, first, you never looked like a schlump." Bless his heart. I think that's what we call unconditional love. Why don't we love ourselves unconditionally? Why is that so hard?? I believe that by living my truth, I'm finally figuring out how to give myself some of that good stuff! <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qMuM0xKCeZ8/V6jdH9_wHhI/AAAAAAAABPc/OItbfSZ4XV0onah0YG3Hi6EsZCtoOFDWACK4B/s1600/closeup.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qMuM0xKCeZ8/V6jdH9_wHhI/AAAAAAAABPc/OItbfSZ4XV0onah0YG3Hi6EsZCtoOFDWACK4B/s320/closeup.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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That's probably the last time you'll hear me rave about DYT. Henceforth, you get to witness my reinvention. Don't worry, there will still be knitting and sewing....but I might add some other things as inspiration strikes. I'm becoming more confident every day. Stay tuned!!!<br />
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876156663980416246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3665521188329190901.post-25758906839828438452015-08-26T16:21:00.000-04:002015-08-26T16:21:02.707-04:00Catching up and PlanningHowdy, y'all!!<br />
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Seriously, where did that come from? I guess I'm just so happy to be blogging again, I couldn't help but let a little country girl exclamation escape.<br />
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2015 has been C.R.A.Z.Y. Work has been super busy, kids have been doing all kinds of stuff, hubby and I have been trying (pretty successfully) to do more things we enjoy together (like going to concerts!). Life has kind of gotten in the way of the blog. And that's okay!<br />
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But, through it all, I was definitely still knitting. During the winter, I couldn't get enough of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/designers/lea-viktoria" target="_blank">Lea Viktoria's</a> designs that feature fun directional knitting using short rows. Below, you'll see
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<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/gaeacreations/steilkuste" target="_blank">Steilküste</a> cowl,<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/waterkant-socks" target="_blank">Waterkant socks</a>, and the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/strandwanderer" target="_blank">Strandwanderer</a> scarf. Yes, I knit the socks twice (once as the pattern is written and once toe-up). This technique is so fun, I couldn't stop doing it!</div>
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I also may have become a little obsessed with the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/polos-headband" target="_blank">Polos Headband</a>, which appeared in the 2014 issue of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/knitscene-accessories-2014" target="_blank">KnitScene Accessories</a>. It's a perfect accessory for covering up those nasty roots when you desperately need a dye job! It's also darn cute.<br />
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I've also knit or finished a fair number of shawls and scarves this year. From the top, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/diamanten-2" target="_blank">Diamenten</a> (which I actually finished, even though this is an in-progress photo), <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/tibetan-clouds-beaded-stole" target="_blank">Tibetan Clouds</a>, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/endsleigh" target="_blank">Endsleigh</a>, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/sprig-of-hope" target="_blank">Sprig of Hope</a> and <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/gaeacreations/tubularity" target="_blank">Tubularity</a>. I actually started several more than this, but these are the ones that I've actually finished this year. <br />
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So, yeah, I've been knitting a lot.<br />
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Right now, I'm planning travel knitting. We're going on another Disney Cruise in October. I can't even tell you how excited I am! The trip is less than 2 months away, and I am beginning to plan the knitting I will take along. It's a 7-night eastern Caribbean itinerary. 2 days at sea, 1 day in St. Maarten, 1 day in St. Thomas/St. John, another day at sea, then a day at Castaway Cay. We have port adventures (shore excursions) planned for port days, so I don't envision getting much knitting in on those days. BUT, the days at sea!! Three days of relaxing, knitting, and reading. Maybe catching a movie or two at the on-board theater. Absolute heaven!<br />
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So, what kind of knitting do you take with you when you travel? I think I'll definitely need a mindless project for knitting during movies and stage shows. Something I don't have to look at.... On our last cruise, my mindless project was a moebius scarf. It was perfect, but I want something different this time. I also want a more complicated project--like a lace shawl or fancy socks or something like that--for times when I want to be challenged. And, of course, I'll need in-between projects, right? Like some basic socks to put in my bag when we are on our port adventures because you never know when you'll have to wait on something.... Is it weird that I'm thinking more about my travel knitting than I am about what clothes I'll pack?Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876156663980416246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3665521188329190901.post-20034872286517971172014-12-23T21:17:00.000-05:002014-12-23T21:17:33.898-05:00Gifts: how to get what you wantYeah, I know that title sounds really selfish. But, let's face it, knitters are super generous this time of year. We love knitting for the people we love. We spend more money on yarn to make gifts than we would spend on just purchasing a gift at a store. On top of that, we spend tons of time and energy making the gift. Every knitting thing we give away takes a little piece of our heart with it.<br />
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So, here's how you help those who love you to get you something you love.<br />
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My kids and hubby know I really like yarn, but they really don't know anything about yarn. Fortunately, <a href="http://riverknitsyarns.com/" target="_blank">River Knits </a>allows people to put together a wish list on a little note card.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-__jo6Hc_gEo/VJocwzauIbI/AAAAAAAABJc/Q9TWFQdeCiU/s1600/list.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-__jo6Hc_gEo/VJocwzauIbI/AAAAAAAABJc/Q9TWFQdeCiU/s1600/list.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is great! However, it still requires my socially anxious husband (bless his heart) to interact with people. So, I decided to make it really easy for him this year. <br />
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One day, I went into River Knits and just started snapping pictures of the stuff I like. Then, I took those pictures and used <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/insta-picframes-free-pic-photo/id536422900?mt=8" target="_blank">Insta Picframes</a> to create collages and add text. Yeah, I even played around with the colors and fonts and stuff. Like this:<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-COiv3HpI3rM/VJodYdbQFHI/AAAAAAAABJo/r6yp5tSflJE/s1600/malabrigo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-COiv3HpI3rM/VJodYdbQFHI/AAAAAAAABJo/r6yp5tSflJE/s1600/malabrigo.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3Dy3MzFk8JI/VJodj9Ivg8I/AAAAAAAABJw/0VBpB97D77w/s1600/boboli.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3Dy3MzFk8JI/VJodj9Ivg8I/AAAAAAAABJw/0VBpB97D77w/s1600/boboli.jpg" height="320" width="290" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bNE9seYJx7Y/VJodj4kZACI/AAAAAAAABJ0/wLHh3TNOAC8/s1600/kauni.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bNE9seYJx7Y/VJodj4kZACI/AAAAAAAABJ0/wLHh3TNOAC8/s1600/kauni.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UwlMZBJKgmY/VJodkcvvveI/AAAAAAAABJ8/bAogMYvOq7k/s1600/zauberball.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UwlMZBJKgmY/VJodkcvvveI/AAAAAAAABJ8/bAogMYvOq7k/s1600/zauberball.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a> </div>
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I even did this:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CuGKkFIA1Hw/VJodyIUiWZI/AAAAAAAABKQ/w5lwgkd5NRE/s1600/sock.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CuGKkFIA1Hw/VJodyIUiWZI/AAAAAAAABKQ/w5lwgkd5NRE/s1600/sock.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
See the "NO" on top of the one little cubbie there in the bottom left corner. There's nothing wrong with that yarn, I just don't enjoy it as much as the others.<br />
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If I had taken more time, I would have put together a little map of the shop to show exactly where everything could be found. But, I didn't have time, so he still had to experience a little human interaction.<br />
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I know this looks really...um.....presumptuous? Entitled? Demanding? But, hubby said he actually really appreciated it. His reasoning: "If my wish list involved a vacuum tube store, you'd be just as clueless as I am walking into the yarn shop." Truth. Although, honestly, I don't think pictures would even help me in a vacuum tube store. They all look like weird lightbulbs to me.<br />
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Please also note that I have absolutely no expectation to receive all of these things. I just like to give him a lot of variety to choose from.<br />
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On that note, Happy Holidays to all of you wonderful fibery folks out there! May your stockings be filled with everything you need to knit your next fabulous project!<br />
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<br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876156663980416246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3665521188329190901.post-72804265608740898472014-11-13T10:41:00.001-05:002014-11-13T10:41:25.324-05:00Getting there...I'm still way ahead of schedule--just over 8 days at this point. I also surpassed the 50,000 stitch mark yesterday. I've completely 53,008 sts, which is 68.82% of the total. Not too shabby! No picture today. It just looks like a bigger pile of yarn. I'm still hoping to be able to start the edging by the end of the week--which is tomorrow. I completed 5 rows this morning, and have 9 more rows to go before starting the edging. Maybe I'll get an edging repeat done before the end of the day tomorrow. If not, definitely Saturday.Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876156663980416246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3665521188329190901.post-65772146455324297452014-11-10T16:14:00.000-05:002014-11-10T16:14:09.571-05:00HalfwayI hit the halfway point (of the stitch count) for my NaKniShawlMo project over the weekend. I haven't been taking pictures daily because, frankly, that would be really boring for all involved. Here's where I am at the end of Day 9. See what I mean?<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LIvD8JyDsGw/VGEoU1J6ISI/AAAAAAAABJE/R7s0OFazN9w/s1600/Day%2B9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LIvD8JyDsGw/VGEoU1J6ISI/AAAAAAAABJE/R7s0OFazN9w/s1600/Day%2B9.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
You can tell it's bigger than it was on Days 1 and 2, but you still can't tell how much progress has been made. So, let's put it this way:<br />
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I am 7 days ahead of schedule.<br />
I have completed 53.76% of the shawl (based on stitch count).<br />
This means I've knit 41,408 stitches so far.<br />
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I'm pretty impressed with myself, if I may be so bold. Right now, the rounds are 580 stitches long. That's quite a slog, but I'm persevering. I think by the end of this week, I'll be able to start working on the edging. Honestly, that's where I usually fall apart when knitting shawls. I knit a couple of repeats of the edging, and I'm ready to be done. 71 repeats of anything is tedious. 71 repeats of a 16-row edging that is 224 stitches per repeat is exhausting. I just get bored after knitting a couple of repeats. That's going to be the big challenge. Can I do it? Sure! Will I enjoy it? Well...... I'm trying to have a positive attitude. <br />
<br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876156663980416246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3665521188329190901.post-51040672416743158432014-11-03T09:36:00.000-05:002014-11-03T09:36:17.896-05:00NaKniSHAWLMoHello again! Long time, no see. Just 3 months, right? A lot has happened. I've lost a total of 33.8 lbs so far, I've been knitting a lot, plus all the same ol', same ol' of work, kids, family, etc.<br />
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A couple of years ago,<a href="http://www.gaea-creations.com/2012/11/nakniswemo-or-ive-lost-my-damn-mind.html" target="_blank"> I participated in NaKniSweMo</a>--National Knit a Sweater Month. Designed after National Novel Writing Month, it requires participants to knit a sweater of at least 50,000 stitches during the month of November. (Novel writers write a novel of at least 50,000 words.) I skipped it last year, but on Friday (October 31), I decided I wanted to do it again this year. Nothing like planning ahead, right?<br />
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Here's the problem: I've been on a sweater-knitting hiatus since I started my weight loss journey. I'm hesitant to spend time, energy, and good yarn on a sweater that might not even fit me anymore by the end of the winter. So, I started looking for patterns for very loose-fitting sweaters, which really aren't my style... and I ultimately decided I'd create my own challenge:<br />
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NaKniSHAWLMo.<br />
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National Knit a Shawl Month.<br />
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I chose <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/leaves-of-grass-2" target="_blank">Leaves of Grass</a>, designed by Jared Flood. It's a shawl that follows Elizabeth Zimmermann's Pi Shawl construction, uses fingering weight yarn, and has more than 77,000 stitches. Perfect!<br />
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Here's the other thing: Progress photos of sweaters are much more impressive than progress photos of shawls. With a sweater, it's very obvious where progress has been made. With a circular shawl, it just looks like a bunch of yarn scrunched onto a circular knitting needle. See?<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ftJV80mnM-w/VFeN7sjmQUI/AAAAAAAABIo/p3EvXIcIJIg/s1600/day1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ftJV80mnM-w/VFeN7sjmQUI/AAAAAAAABIo/p3EvXIcIJIg/s1600/day1.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
That was at the end of Day 1. Despite knitting more than 7,000 stitches on Day 2, it doesn't look much different:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S2EoQptC7-s/VFeOzaCGtLI/AAAAAAAABI0/TEH2ZeZYTYs/s1600/Day%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S2EoQptC7-s/VFeOzaCGtLI/AAAAAAAABI0/TEH2ZeZYTYs/s1600/Day%2B2.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
(The color difference can be attributed to the fact that the top pic was taken at home, using incandescent and natural light. The one on the bottom was taken in my office, lit with fluorescent lights. The color is actually more accurate in the top pic--olive greens.)<br /><br />
So, anyway, Day 1 looks like a pile of yarn, and Day 2 looks like a slightly larger pile of yarn. Not very impressive. <br />
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To really see the design, shawls have to be stretched and blocked. When I stretch this bit (end of Day 1) over my hand, you can see one bit of the motif. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GKTk0_heZCs/VFeNaZ4Ql6I/AAAAAAAABIg/Gbo32w1kUbA/s1600/Day%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GKTk0_heZCs/VFeNaZ4Ql6I/AAAAAAAABIg/Gbo32w1kUbA/s1600/Day%2B1.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
Still not particularly impressive. Sigh. You'll just have to trust me as I report back on my progress.<br />
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I spent quite a bit of time on Saturday putting together a spreadsheet of how far I need to get each day. At this point, I'm a couple of days ahead of schedule. But, I worked an entire row wrong this morning before work. That will teach me to knit lace before I'm really fully awake.<br />
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Are you participating in NaKniSweMo? Would you like to join me for NaKniShawlMo?<br />
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<br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876156663980416246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3665521188329190901.post-996750137703692322014-08-11T16:43:00.000-04:002014-08-11T16:43:05.424-04:0040So, a big thing happened last week: I turned 40. When my husband turned 40 in February, it nearly killed him. He absolutely hated it. I, on the other hand, am excited! This is going to be my best decade yet. Life is good!<br />
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Every year on my birthday, I start a new project. This year was no exception.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bDj8SK9nRkw/U-kmmM2v2SI/AAAAAAAABF8/zHAQxuc8sFQ/s1600/interpolate1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bDj8SK9nRkw/U-kmmM2v2SI/AAAAAAAABF8/zHAQxuc8sFQ/s1600/interpolate1.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Pattern: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/interpolate" target="_blank">Interpolate</a>. Yarn: <a href="http://www.mistialpaca.com/yarns/collection/tonos-carnaval/" target="_blank">Misti Alpaca Tonos Carnaval</a> in Surf Blue and Truffle. I expect to have it completed by the end of the week. It's really fun--the perfect balance between mindless and interesting. The yarn is fabulous and soft and gorgeous.<br />
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My birthday also brought some fun entertainment.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e21XHDy_Jpg/U-kpJEoH-XI/AAAAAAAABGI/-S4Z7p6Vins/s1600/toriamos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e21XHDy_Jpg/U-kpJEoH-XI/AAAAAAAABGI/-S4Z7p6Vins/s1600/toriamos.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
I used to be a HUGE Tori Amos fan, but I had never seen her live. So, we got together with some friends who are also fans, and had an amazing evening, which included dinner at McCormick & Schmick's. Sooo good!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0j4GqiBNM3A/U-kpfFxPl1I/AAAAAAAABGQ/PcOd2Dvq0mc/s1600/dinner.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0j4GqiBNM3A/U-kpfFxPl1I/AAAAAAAABGQ/PcOd2Dvq0mc/s1600/dinner.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
It was a really fun way to start a new decade--great music, great friends, great time! <br /><br />
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<br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876156663980416246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3665521188329190901.post-57147965261498115302014-07-29T10:33:00.000-04:002014-07-29T10:33:28.465-04:00Wow...ok....Hey, peeps! It's been a while. This has been an amazing, wonderful and busy summer. The afghan class is going really well, and there are <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/year-long-afghan-2" target="_blank">more than 100 people on Ravelry</a> who are knitting along too! This absolutely floors me. I am humbled by their enthusiasm for this thing that I designed. I'm still working on the scarves to go with the afghan squares, but I'm taking a little break for some other fun stuff.<br />
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This is the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/blooming-stitch-shawl" target="_blank">Blooming Stitch Shawl</a>. The yarn is <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/louet-cottolin" target="_blank">Louet Cottolin</a>. When Elizabeth (owner of <a href="http://riverknitsyarns.com/" target="_blank">River Knits</a>) ordered this yarn, she was envisioning it being used for weaving. I saw a lovely, light summer shawl in my favorite color.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3tSN8CMxZsk/U9eW1j25KTI/AAAAAAAABEg/7eLWz5aJnD4/s1600/blossom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3tSN8CMxZsk/U9eW1j25KTI/AAAAAAAABEg/7eLWz5aJnD4/s1600/blossom.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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I'm also working on the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/tibetan-clouds-beaded-stole" target="_blank">Tibetan Clouds Shawl</a> using <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/fiber-optic-yarns-foot-notes" target="_blank">Fiber Optic Yarns Footnotes Gradients</a>. I love this so much! It's fun to knit and exciting to see what color comes next.The back of the stole is knit from the center out. Then, opposite edges are bound off. Finally, the live stitches are picked up and the ends of the stole are knit from there. I think this projects highlights this gradient yarn in a really unique way. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MWS8z9m7-k4/U9eX1ZSvvvI/AAAAAAAABEo/dBJW-UtXfuw/s1600/tibetan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MWS8z9m7-k4/U9eX1ZSvvvI/AAAAAAAABEo/dBJW-UtXfuw/s1600/tibetan.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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I'm also knitting this shawl. It's called <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ashburn" target="_blank">Ashburn</a>. The yarn is the brand new <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/classic-elite-yarns-villa" target="_blank">Classic Elite Villa</a>. This might be my new favorite yarn. Well, second favorite. I don't think I could love anything more than Malabrigo Sock yarn....but this would be a really close second. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cV83Fly-H3E/U9er9lYWuNI/AAAAAAAABE4/_epZK3kWbZQ/s1600/ashburn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cV83Fly-H3E/U9er9lYWuNI/AAAAAAAABE4/_epZK3kWbZQ/s1600/ashburn.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
I have a couple of other shawls in my queue, but I want to finish at least the Ashburn and Tibetan Clouds before I start something new.<br />
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What's with all the shawls? I've put a moratorium on sweater knitting. I've lost 21.2 lbs so far, and, while I would LOVE to knit myself some sweaters to wear as soon as I hit my goal weight, I don't know what my measurements will be. So, there's no point spending good yarn and good time on a sweater that might be way too big by winter. So, for the foreseeable future, I'm knitting accessories. Shawls, socks, mittens, hats. And I'm happy with that. Here's the current progress pic. I probably should have taken some time to make myself look nice for the photo on the right, but I was just so excited when I discovered I had crossed the 20-lb mark, I jumped off the scale, got dressed and demanded my daughter take my pic. I promise to make more of an effort next time. :)<br />
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In other news, last night brought a completely unexpected event! Back story: We got a minivan in 2003 or 2004.... it was a 2001 Pontiac Montana, affectionately referred to as Vannah Montana. She served us well for the past 10 years, but for the last 5 years or so, she's been slowly going down hill. First, it was little things: LEDs went out in the radio display, alternator needed replaced, back windshield washer stopped working, gas gauge stopped working (I have to use the trip odometer to know when it's time to get gas). Then, there were some really big things: some gasket I don't know anything about needed replacing and it required Tim to hoist the entire engine up to get to it; the head gasket started leaking, and lots of other stuff I don't remember. For 2 years or so, I've been cursing her and whining about wanting a "new" car. But, it was never the right time. I looked halfheartedly at lots of things. I even test drove a Kia Soul. It was kind of nice. Then, last fall, a colleague invited me to try her Nissan Cube. I instantly fell in love. I know it's definitely quirky and not for everyone. I spent all winter and spring talking about wanting a Cube. Every chance I got, I'd say, "Yep, Vanna Montana will be replaced by a Cube."<br />
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Then, a few weeks ago, another colleague informed me that Nissan has decided 2014 is the final model year for the Cube. They will no longer manufacture it. For a short while, that ramped up my search, but nothing seemed quite right. Yesterday, my wonderful hubby sent me a link to a Cube at a Subaru dealership in Indy. We went down last night after work and drove home with the newest addition to our family: Cindy Lou Cube.<br />
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I love her. We didn't get home until almost 11:30 last night, which is way past my bedtime. And, I have to be at work all day today because responsibilities. I can't wait to get home tonight and spend some quality time really getting to know her. Isn't she just the cutest thing?!<br /><br />
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<br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876156663980416246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3665521188329190901.post-40762976361596245532014-06-16T10:17:00.000-04:002014-06-16T10:17:58.818-04:00Times, they are a-changin'I'm not going to turn this into a blog centered on the topic of this post, but it's a big deal to me. So, I want to share.<br />
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On May 20, I made the decision to change my life, and (as of Saturday morning) I've lost 9 lbs so far. Purdue (my employer) is focused very much on work-life balance and keeping their employees healthy. As a result, they offer a 12-week weight management class for free. I'm not stupid, and I know I'm very overweight. I'm under no illusions about that. So, I figured, why not just go and see what it's about, right?<br />
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The first meeting included weighing in AND taking a waist measurement. I hadn't been on a scale since before Christmas. I knew it wasn't going to be good, but I had no idea how bad it was really going to be. It was bad. A solid 15 lbs more than I'd ever weighed before ever. Including when I was pregnant. That bad. And my waist measurement was fully 2" more than the last time I'd taken it...whenever that was. Add to those facts, this picture, which was taken in April.....<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VBJCQU5UJSk/U57n_u7SZ1I/AAAAAAAABBQ/qQdREJB1Gt0/s1600/before.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VBJCQU5UJSk/U57n_u7SZ1I/AAAAAAAABBQ/qQdREJB1Gt0/s1600/before.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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YIKES!! Yeah. Clearly, I need to do something. <br />
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So what is "something?" Moderation and smarter choices. Listening to my body. Moving. This isn't a diet. It's a life change. I'm not a 15-year-old cheerleader anymore, so I can't eat like I am. I'm going to be 40 in August, and (like most Americans) I live a pretty sedentary life. I also really like bread and sugary treats. I mean...<b><i>really</i></b>. <br />
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So, I'm making healthier choices. I've stopped going to the pizza place for a slice and a bag of breadsticks for lunch. This doesn't mean I can't have pizza. I can, when I really want it. It just means not eating it several times a week for lunch. I'm also not visiting the vending machine for a sweet treat every afternoon. But, I'm also not depriving myself. I had a small bowl of ice cream last night. It was delicious. I've also discovered the tastiest salad in the whole world, which I've eaten for lunch 3 or 4 days every week for the past 3 weeks: <a href="https://www.panerabread.com/en-us/menu-categories/salads.html#strawberry-poppyseed-chicken-salad" target="_blank">Strawberry Poppyseed and Chicken salad from Panera</a>. It's sooo good! I get the baguette as the side because the bread makes me feel more satisfied. The salad is sweet from all of the fruit that's in it, so I don't get that mid-afternoon sugar craving. I also don't get that mid-afternoon energy slump I used to get from the carb-heavy pizza and breadsticks lunch. I feel SO much better. <br />
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I purchased a <a href="https://www.fitbit.com/one" target="_blank">Fitbit One</a> a couple of weeks ago. I love it. It's a great motivator. It's so fun to see the little flower grow as I am more active throughout my day. I remember being really excited the first time I got two leaves. This is what it looked like last night:<br />
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That's SIX leaves! What did I do? Grocery shopping in the morning. Then, Tori and I went to the mall in the early afternoon so I could get new shoes--my old athletic shoes were extremely broken down. It hurt my feet to walk in them. That's been fixed with a cute new pair of neon Asics. Love them! But, I digress. We went to the mall and walked around a lot. I did laundry. Our laundry room is on the second floor of our house, so there's lots of stair climbing on laundry day. I also went for a mile and a half walk after dinner. Ended up with more than 12,000 steps for the day!<br />
<br />
I also started using <a href="http://www.myfitnesspal.com/" target="_blank">My Fitness Pal</a>, which syncs with the Fitbit, to track my eating and calorie intake/burning. This is really important for me. I have to log everything I eat to hold myself accountable. Typically, I will plan my food for the day in the morning. This eliminates the poor choices that come when I don't plan and I'm hungry. So far, it's working really well.<br />
<br />
Now, let's talk about my Diet Coke addiction. I *love* Diet Coke. I mean seriously. Part of my morning routine is stopping at the Family Express to fill my 32 oz mug with Diet Coke. It gets me through the morning. I don't drink coffee or tea, so that's my caffeine for the day. For years, I've heard or read (and ignored) articles about how terrible artificial sweeteners and soda are for you. I'd see the headline, and skip it. I'd hear them start talking about it on the TV and change the channel. Head in the sand much? Yep. (My husband says I'm like this about a lot of things....) Well, I wasn't able to ignore it when the instructor started talking about aspartame in the Weight Management class. Not to mention the sodium, artificial coloring, and other chemicals in pop. Sigh. So, five days ago, I decided to start weaning myself off of Diet Coke. I went from 32 oz every day to 24 oz for three days, then 16 oz for three days. I'm on Day 2 of 16 oz. Not sure what I'll do Wednesday. 8 oz? I'd have to eyeball it in my 16 oz cup. Or do I just quit at that point? We'll see. At any rate, it's been pretty painless so far. I know people who have quit cold turkey and were a mess of headaches and energy slumps. I didn't want to go down that road. BUT, I know I'm making a healthy choice, and that feels really good. I'll be interested to see how it affects the frequency of headaches and migraines once I'm fully detoxed from it. <br />
<br />
I think the most interesting thing in this whole process is how different it feels from every other time I've tried to lose weight. I'm not looking at this as a diet or a temporary thing. I'm living a more healthy lifestyle. Period. I'll never be an outdoorsy person or someone who loves to exercise. But, it's high time I start taking care of myself. I don't find myself thinking or saying, "When I get to my goal weight, I can finally go back to...." because it doesn't work that way. That's "diet" thinking, and leads straight to gaining all the weight back. I'm not going there.<br />
<br />
So, that's my story for right now. Maybe you don't care, and that's okay. This isn't a health or weight loss blog, and it's not going to become that. I just wanted to share what's been on my mind lately.<br />
<br />
In other news: The <a href="http://www.gaea-creations.com/2014/05/yla2.html" target="_blank">YLA2 class</a> starts tomorrow!!! I can't wait! <br />
<br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876156663980416246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3665521188329190901.post-8606570771717496702014-05-20T16:07:00.000-04:002014-05-20T16:07:16.133-04:00Year-Long Afghan II (official)<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KrspZCCvU3o/U3ub3oDlu4I/AAAAAAAAA-8/Bp4GbBnlGGM/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KrspZCCvU3o/U3ub3oDlu4I/AAAAAAAAA-8/Bp4GbBnlGGM/s1600/photo.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
I really love everything about it. The colors especially. It's so bright and happy. And, because each square is only 14 inches, you're never working one technique long enough to get bored!<br />
<br />
The great news (for me!) is that the class is full! Then I added another session, and it filled up within a couple of days! It's going to be a fun year!!<br />
<br />
For those who didn't make it into the class and who still want to knit the afghan, here's your chance.<br />
<br />
I have created an e-book on Ravelry: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/year-long-afghan-2">Year Long Afghan 2</a>. It will work similarly to the class in that the patterns for the squares will be released monthly and added to the e-book as a separate pattern. This will be just the concise pattern as you would see a pattern published anywhere. It does not include the class handouts, in-depth description of techniques, or one-on-one instruction. When an unusual or complicated technique is required, resources (websites, books, articles, etc.) are cited to offer additional help. At this time (May 20, 2014), purchasing the pattern will allow you download the Introduction sheet, which lists a schedule of release dates, materials, and other information. Instructions for individual squares will be released monthly, beginning on June 21, 2014.<br />
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Some of you may recall that I'm designing scarves to go along with the afghan for those who don't really like afghans. The Year of Scarves pattern will be available separately, and I will post more info once all of the scarves are knit.<br />
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If you'd like more in-depth information about the afghan, read on!<br />
<br />
<b>Materials:</b> <br />
The pattern is written for 6 colors, but you can use as few as 2 or as many as you like. The sample was knit with Cascade 220 in the following colors and quantities and required a total of 2913 yds.<br />
<br />
Cascade 220:<br />
7814 Chartreuse: 524 yds + 100 yds for assembly, 3 skeins<br />
8910 Citron: 292 yds, 2 skeins<br />
9467 Delphinium: 348 yds, 2 skeins<br />
7808 Purple Hyacinth: 389 yds + 400 yds for edging, 4 skeins<br />
7824 Jack O'lantern: 493 yds, 3 skeins<br />
Schachenmayr SMC Northern Wool (discontinued):<br />
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1737 Lavender (a good substitute is Cascade 220 8912, Lilac Mist): 327 yds, 2 skeins<span lang="en-US" style="language: en-US; mso-ligatures: none;"> </span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="language: en-US; mso-ligatures: none;"><b>Finished Size</b></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="language: en-US; mso-ligatures: none;">Approximately 48" x 62", using Cascade 220 to make twelve 14" squares plus border.</span></div>
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<b>Month 1 (June 2014): TEXTURE</b><br />
An excellent introduction to reading a chart, this square involves simply knitting and purling in various combinations to create a lovely textured pattern. <br />
<i>Materials: </i>185 yds (Delphinium), US 6 needles<b> </b><br />
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<b><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wJ6Vq-dC4fI/U3ur9yE4VaI/AAAAAAAAA_c/wxO8d8m_l-s/s1600/texture.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wJ6Vq-dC4fI/U3ur9yE4VaI/AAAAAAAAA_c/wxO8d8m_l-s/s1600/texture.JPG" height="315" width="320" /></a></b></div>
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<b>Month 2 (July 2014): SHORT ROWS</b><br />
This square is very fun to knit. Learn the German short-row technique while creating a square with undulating stripes.<br />
<i>Materials:</i> You can use as few as 2 or as many colors for this square as you like. I used all of my colors, with Jack O'lantern as the main color with stripes of the other colors. About 224 yards of yarn in total, distributed as follows: <b> </b> Jack O’lantern: 104 yds, Delphinium: 31 yds; Lavender: 27 yds; Purple Hyacinth: 22 yds; Citron: 20 yds; Chartreuse : 20 yds.US 6 needles, 4 each of 3 different stitch markers (these will be Marker A, Marker B, and Marker C). <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6CKaSnnfA-A/U3uxDVCz5YI/AAAAAAAAA_k/i5pPHTzvuWU/s1600/short+rows.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6CKaSnnfA-A/U3uxDVCz5YI/AAAAAAAAA_k/i5pPHTzvuWU/s1600/short+rows.JPG" height="320" width="287" /></a></div>
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<b>Month 3 (August 2014): MOCK CABLES </b><br />
It looks like cables, but it's actually traveling stitches, an effect created by strategically placed knits, purls, increases and decreases.<br />
<i>Materials</i>: 160 yds (Chartreuse), US 6 needles<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1RgcaQrudqA/U3uxInImjsI/AAAAAAAAA_w/wQC56JJfoLo/s1600/mock+cable.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1RgcaQrudqA/U3uxInImjsI/AAAAAAAAA_w/wQC56JJfoLo/s1600/mock+cable.JPG" height="320" width="295" /></a></div>
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<b>Month 4 (September 2014): LOG CABIN</b><br />
Log Cabin knitting is completely addictive. It's simply a knitted version of the well-known quilt block, but with so many options and variations, the opportunity for creativity is limitless.<br />
<i>Materials: </i><b></b>This square uses multiple colors. You can use all of your colors if you like. For mine, I used one color for the center square (the homework), and 4 colors for the bands around the center square. I used a total of 229 yds distributed as follows: Jack O’lantern: 7 yds, Purple Hyacinth: 47 yds, Lavender: 53 yds, Chartreuse: 62 yds, Citron: 60 yds. US 7 needles.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qr2_wjb07lM/U3uxQKASCDI/AAAAAAAAA_0/5Gvn8h0cG54/s1600/log+cabin.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qr2_wjb07lM/U3uxQKASCDI/AAAAAAAAA_0/5Gvn8h0cG54/s1600/log+cabin.JPG" height="320" width="316" /></a></div>
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<b>Month 5 (October 2014): TWIST STITCHES</b><br />
Often confused with cables, twist stitches are accomplished by (what else?) twisting stitches and rearranging them through unique stitch manipulation. While this can be accomplished with a cable needle, this method is easier and faster.<br />
<i>Materials: </i>185 yds (Lavender), US 7 needles<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rJYnYr5ILhU/U3u0kmQ093I/AAAAAAAAA_8/YYZPDIT9b2s/s1600/twist.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rJYnYr5ILhU/U3u0kmQ093I/AAAAAAAAA_8/YYZPDIT9b2s/s1600/twist.JPG" height="320" width="312" /></a></div>
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<b>Month 6 (November 2014): ENTRELAC</b><br />
Accomplished by knitting small connected squares, entrelac looks like basketweave.<br />
<i>Materials</i>: About 37 yds each of 6 colors for a total of 222 yards. If you are doing this square all in one color, you will be able to do it with one skein of Cascade 220. US 6 needles<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dqm29sGVAgg/U3u0oodyriI/AAAAAAAABAE/IR6gyjCZq3I/s1600/entrelac.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dqm29sGVAgg/U3u0oodyriI/AAAAAAAABAE/IR6gyjCZq3I/s1600/entrelac.JPG" height="320" width="300" /></a></div>
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<b>Month 7 (December 2014): CABLES</b><br />
Find out how easy cables really are.<br />
<i>Materials: </i>235 yds (Jack O'lantern), cable needle, US 7 needles<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eIMzWDHtinc/U3u0rpsRc4I/AAAAAAAABAM/B8vPY7svGqE/s1600/cable.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eIMzWDHtinc/U3u0rpsRc4I/AAAAAAAABAM/B8vPY7svGqE/s1600/cable.JPG" height="320" width="309" /></a></div>
<b></b><br />
<b>Month 8 (January 2015): MOSAIC KNITTING</b><br />
It looks like stranded colorwork, but only one color is carried per row. So easy you won't want to stop!<br />
<i>Materials: </i>100 yards each of two colors (Chartreuse and Purple Hyacinth), US <b></b>7 needles<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O25-MDtykLM/U3u0u5Xj-LI/AAAAAAAABAU/rQ3yRg1lb68/s1600/mosaic.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O25-MDtykLM/U3u0u5Xj-LI/AAAAAAAABAU/rQ3yRg1lb68/s1600/mosaic.JPG" height="320" width="314" /></a></div>
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<b>Month 9 (February 2015): EMBELLISHMENT</b><br />
Embellish stockinette stitch to bring interest to an otherwise plain square. Techniques: Surface crochet and a number of embroidery stitches.<br />
<i>Materials: </i>155 yds main color (Citron) plus scraps of other colors (don't feel like you have to limit yourself to your afghan colors!), US 6 needles<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mtxen3JN8C8/U3u0xanT0cI/AAAAAAAABAc/t94zSn8t4qA/s1600/embellished.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mtxen3JN8C8/U3u0xanT0cI/AAAAAAAABAc/t94zSn8t4qA/s1600/embellished.JPG" height="295" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Month 10 (March 2015): FAIR ISLE</b><br />
Cast on the perimeter of the square and knit to the center while working stranded color work.<br />
<i>Materials: </i>MC (Main Color; this is the color I used for the patterning; Jack O’lantern): 110 yds. CC (Contrasting Colors, these are the colors used for the background; in mine, I striped all of these colors): A total of 120 yds, divided as follows: Chartreuse: 25 yds; Citron: 20 yds; Delphinium: 15yds; Purple Hyacinth: 35 yds; Lavender: 25 yds. , US 7 needles (Set of 5 DPN, 16” and 24” circular; some knitters might like to have a 32” or 40” circular to start on), 4 stitch markers (one should be different from the other three)<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vuo9kOthQfU/U3u009H9fCI/AAAAAAAABAk/vDpFX_wONKE/s1600/fairisle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vuo9kOthQfU/U3u009H9fCI/AAAAAAAABAk/vDpFX_wONKE/s1600/fairisle.JPG" height="320" width="315" /></a></div>
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<b>Month 11 (April 2015): LACE</b><br />
Anyone who knows me well knows that lace is my absolute favorite form of knitting. This square is a good introduction to lace, beginning at the center and working in the round to the perimeter.<br />
<i>Materials: </i>150 yards (Purple Hyacinth), US 8 needles (set of 5 DPN, 16” and 24” circular), crochet hook 5mm, 4 stitch markers (one should be different from the other three).<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BPQZNpoXbb8/U3u04Fa0COI/AAAAAAAABAs/lzrL3VWsh1c/s1600/lace.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BPQZNpoXbb8/U3u04Fa0COI/AAAAAAAABAs/lzrL3VWsh1c/s1600/lace.JPG" height="320" width="297" /></a></div>
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<b>Month 12 (May 2015): INTARSIA</b><br />
Create vertical and diagonal stripes while knitting with only one color at a time.<br />
<i>Materials: </i>120 yds Main Color (Chartreuse), 80 yds Contrasting Color (Delphinium), US 6 needles<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--Se2dYG6n8A/U3u063ZFWpI/AAAAAAAABA0/htBCxtGE7Zc/s1600/intarsia.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--Se2dYG6n8A/U3u063ZFWpI/AAAAAAAABA0/htBCxtGE7Zc/s1600/intarsia.JPG" height="291" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Month 13 (June 2015): FINISHING AND ASSEMBLY</b><br />
I'll describe my favorite ways to join the squares and give directions for a lovely seed stitch border.<br />
<i>Materials: </i>100 yds (Chartreuse) for assembly; 400 yds (Purple Hyacinth) for border<br />
<br />
So, if you are interested in purchasing the pattern, it is the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/year-long-afghan-2" target="_blank">Year Long Afghan 2</a> on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/" target="_blank">Ravelry</a>.Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876156663980416246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3665521188329190901.post-2260350229174668172014-03-24T16:05:00.000-04:002014-05-07T04:24:09.518-04:00Revised, Revamped and Redesigned: Year Long Afghan II<div>
It's hard to believe it's been 10 years since I designed and taught
the first session of the original <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/river-knits-year-long-afghan" target="_blank">Year-Long Afghan</a>. In those 10 years,
I've learned a lot! I've grown as both a knitter and as a teacher. I've
added techniques to my own repertoire through classes and books and
patterns, and I try to find fun ways to pass those skills on to other
knitters. I've also spent a lot of time thinking about the original YLA
and what I would do differently if I could do it all over. Then I
realized that I CAN do it all over!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Enter Year-Long Afghan II. (This is just a working title. It's boring. I'm open to suggestions.)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>What's a YLA?</i></div>
<div>
It's
a series of classes lasting one year and meeting once a month. Each
month, a new knitting technique is taught in the form of a 14" afghan
square. (The original YLA has 16" squares.)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>How is the YLAII different from the original YLA?</i></div>
<div>
There
are more techniques and skills. You'll really learn something new every
month. The original YLA repeated some skills (Fair Isle and Cables had
two squares each!), and it even had one square that was just garter
stitch using leftovers. This repetition has been eliminated. As a
result, there are 12 square classes and 1 finishing and assembling
class, for a total of 13 classes, each presenting something different
from the squares before. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>Awesome idea, but I'm not much for knitted blankets. </i></div>
<div>
I got you covered! :) Each month will also have a scarf or cowl pattern teaching the same skills. </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<i>I'm interested. How does the class work?</i></div>
<div>
The class meets once a month, on the third Tuesday, 7-9pm. You can sign up for as few or as many of the classes as you like, but if you sign up for all 13 classes at once, you get a break on the price AND you'll receive an electronic copy of the final pattern booklet for free. (Details on price are in the information sheet linked below.) I've already been asked if there will be an online option for this class, and unfortunately, the answer is no. This is a very hands-on class, and I don't feel I could give quality service to online students. <i></i></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Are
you intrigued? Check out the <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/16t6z4sgvqyvme1/YLA%202014%20Info%20Sheet.pdf" target="_blank">information sheet</a> for all of the
details. As stated on the sheet, I'm still in the process of designing
the squares--8 are complete and one is nearly done. So, I don't have
final, official, accurate yardage needs calculated yet. However, the
sheet does show how much yarn was used for the squares that have been
completed as well as rough estimates for what remains. I hope to have
final, accurate quantities by mid-April. </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
In the meantime, here's some eye candy. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HdCRZaZFy0Q/UzCGgFmtiuI/AAAAAAAAA8c/vOFAH9DDKH0/s1600/onbush.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HdCRZaZFy0Q/UzCGgFmtiuI/AAAAAAAAA8c/vOFAH9DDKH0/s1600/onbush.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
What? You want to actually see the individual squares? Okay...<br />
<br />
June: Texture Stitches with a focus on learning how to read a chart. The top picture is actually a much more accurate representation of the color. <br />
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<br />
<div>
July: Short rows. This one is still in progress, but here's what it looked like yesterday afternoon:</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mJpNJdi4tmk/UzCIg5fpJrI/AAAAAAAAA80/lvvU_wR6_aY/s1600/julyinprogress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mJpNJdi4tmk/UzCIg5fpJrI/AAAAAAAAA80/lvvU_wR6_aY/s1600/julyinprogress.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
August: Mock cables<br />
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September: Log Cabin<br />
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October: Twist Stitches<br />
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December: Cables<br />
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January: Mosaic Knitting<br />
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February: Embellishments. Clearly, this square is just plain stockinette and has not yet been embellished.<br />
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April: Lace<br />
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You've probably noticed that there are a few months missing. I haven't knit those squares yet. They are November: Entrelac, March: Fair Isle, and May: Intarsia. Pictures will come as soon as I have them completed.<br />
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876156663980416246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3665521188329190901.post-13168675973616702452014-02-25T08:42:00.000-05:002014-02-25T08:42:16.918-05:00Ravellenics Sweater SUCCESS, Finishing Other Things, and a Crazy CatGreat news! I finished my sweater on Friday night (day 15)!!! By the time it was done Friday, I was too tired to deal with blocking it, but I did that Saturday morning.<br />
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In this photo, the ribbed fronts/neck are folded back. Once it was dry, I didn't like the crease that was formed, so I steamed it a bit to remove the crease. I love it so much. It's warm and cozy, but looks really nice too.<br />
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Inspired by the fact that I finished a complete sweater in 15 days, I started looking at my other projects to see what else I can finish when I put my mind to it. Saturday, I finished my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/dreambird-kal" target="_blank">Dreambird Shawl</a>.<br />
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I promise better pictures of both items as soon as I get a chance. My iPhone just doesn't take stellar pics.<br />
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So, having completed that, I went for something a little more difficult. Back in July 2012, I started the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/evenstar-shawl" target="_blank">Evenstar Shawl</a>. The body of the shawl has been done for a long time. Well over a year. I just needs an edging. So, I pulled it out. About 10 repeats of the edging were done. That's when I gave up. I love the way lace edgings look, I just don't enjoy knitting them. It's the same few rows over and over and over again until you feel like poking your eyes out with your knitting needles. Well, guess what! The time has come for me to just suck it up and get it done.<br />
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Each repeat of the edging (one of those peaks) takes about 18 minutes. The shawl requires 56 of those buggers. That's 1008 minutes of knitting just those 20 rows over and over and over again. That's almost 17 hours. I have 23 repeats done. It would take a lot longer if I were adding the beads (as called for in the pattern). But I'm not. Thank God.<br />
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In other completely unrelated news, one of our cats has taken to keeping me company when I shower in the morning. It's the weirdest thing. He jumps up between the fabric curtain and the plastic curtain liner. Then, he walks to the back of the tub and sticks his head into the shower. He meows at me the entire time I'm showering. It's like he warning me about the evil water I'm standing in. It's hilarious.<br />
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<br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876156663980416246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3665521188329190901.post-16431645730609169732014-02-20T10:11:00.002-05:002014-02-20T10:11:40.682-05:00Ravellenics Sweater: Day 13I still don't have anything terribly exciting to report. Knitting 1x1 rib over 371 stitches for 8" of depth is sort of like knitting the Great Wall. It feels like it will never end.<br />
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Doesn't look a whole lot different from yesterday. But, trust me, there are a good 2 or 2.5 more inches of ribbing now than there were before.<br />
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I don't have anything on my schedule this evening once I pick my daughter up from her flute lesson at 5:30, so maybe (hopefully!) I will get the ribbing done tonight.<br />
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When I was laying my sweater out to get the photos above, I was struck again by how much I love the Phoney Seam.<br />
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In this picture (more than the ones from the other day), you can really see how the "seam" almost sits on top of the fabric, encouraging it to fold there. I just love it. It looks so nice and finished.<br />
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I'm really excited about finishing this and seeing how it looks!!<br />
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<br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876156663980416246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3665521188329190901.post-25656143567953848392014-02-19T08:58:00.001-05:002014-02-19T08:58:20.597-05:00Ravellenics Sweater: Day 12I don't have any brilliant advice to share with you today. No pictures of special techniques or information about how to calculate anything. Just a picture of my sweater and a few of inches of ribbing. It's going faster than I thought it would and isn't eating as much yarn as I feared it might. I don't think it will get finished tonight because we have too much going on, but maybe tomorrow....<br />
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<br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876156663980416246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3665521188329190901.post-49472313559918859122014-02-18T09:00:00.000-05:002014-02-18T09:00:29.451-05:00Ravellenics Sweater: Day 11 and Phoney SeamsYesterday was wonderful. Due to being able to knit at work for a while AND our evening plans being cancelled due to snow/ice, I had tons of knitting time yesterday. The main body of the sweater is DONE!<br />
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First thing this morning, I picked up a gazillion stitches up the right front, around the back of the neck, and down the left front. Now I get to knit 7.5" of 1x1 ribbing all the way around. I have about 288g of yarn left, which should work out really well with a minimum of yarn left over.<br />
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Let's talk for a minute about <a href="http://www.cabinfever.ca/retailerstips2.html" target="_blank">Phoney Seams</a>. These were an "unvention" of Elizabeth Zimmermann (unvention instead of invention because she didn't believe there was anything in knitting that hadn't already been done by someone, even if it hadn't been recorded). Phoney Seams were the result of people complaining that seamless sweaters didn't hang right because they were missing the seams, which gave a certain amount of structure and support to the garment. I like Phoney Seams for that reason, but also because they give a definite fold point to the side "seams" when blocking. To see exactly how to do a Phoney Seam, follow the link above. I just wanted to show you a couple of pics of how mine turned out.<br />
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First, dropping that one stitch down always makes me cringe a little. It's not like I'm worried I can't fix it or that I'm stressing about it not being right. I'm not sure why, but cringe I do. Look at that wide gap where just one column of stitches used to be. <br />
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But, then, after spending a few minutes picking the stitches up with the right ration (1 bar, 2 bars, 1 bar, 2 bars, and so on), it looks like this:<br />
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See that nice line of Vs that stand out from the rest? Lovely and perfect. <br />
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<br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876156663980416246noreply@blogger.com0