Thursday, November 30, 2006
Needles for log cabins?
What types of needles do you all use for the really large log cabins? Do you change needles as the afghan gets larger? What length of needles works best for you? I haven't seen anyone say much about this topic, and I'm not seeing anything about needle length or type in the MDK book either.
This may be obvious to you experienced knitters, but I'm just not sure how to get started on one of these larger pieces. Any advice will be greatly appreciated!
This may be obvious to you experienced knitters, but I'm just not sure how to get started on one of these larger pieces. Any advice will be greatly appreciated!
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
border question
I tend to be a very tight knitter- I try to loosen up. I need to border a baby blanket and feel this may be difficult- does anyone go down in needle size for the border?
Log cabin blanket border
How on earth do I knit a border for my 9 square blanket? I'm on square 7 and am already future-tripping about the border. I don't have a 834" circular so how do I do it? Help!
You can read about it at http://nautiknitter.wordpress.com
You can read about it at http://nautiknitter.wordpress.com
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
One down...
A million to go! Well, maybe not a million, but a lot to go.
I knit my first ballband dishcloth yesterday. It's adorable and knit up so quickly!
I knit my first ballband dishcloth yesterday. It's adorable and knit up so quickly!
Monday, November 27, 2006
Log cabin afghans
Getting close to the end....this is my courthouse steps log cabin. I just love how the colors are turning out!
Baby Log Cabin on its way! I bought some boy flannel to attach to the back when it is finished.
Baby Log Cabin on its way! I bought some boy flannel to attach to the back when it is finished.
Bibs!!!
Hi Everyone!!! I've been a long time reader, first time poster!!! I absolutely LOVE the MDK book!!! I thought I would show off these bibs I made for someone in my husband's office!!! I folded them with little white ribbons and gave them in a little white basket!!! He came home to tell me they got RAVE REVIEWS and everyone was real impressed by them!!! If only they knew how easy and fun they are too make!!! I will definitely be making more to have on hand....they make great "car trip" knitting!!!There are more pictures on my blog of the cute buttons I found for the straps!!!
"Nina" blankie and perfect sweater
Greetings all:
I attach my current works in progress (if only to assure myself that I will actually finish them one of these fine days).
1. Yet another blankie (based on the "Nina" shawl pattern in the MDK book, which is wonderful). You may notice some similarities in colours with the "funky blankie" I posted below. This is because I am a BAD DAUGHTER who, faced with having ordered too much yarn for the Nina blankie (which is meant to be a christmas present for my mother), decided to make another blankie for myself instead. My excuse... waiting for the last colour to come in for the Nina one. Yarn is my ever-favourite Super 10 mercerised cotton.
2. The Perfect Sweater in progress - knitted in Fleece Artist Kid Silk. Colours in the real-life yarn are much more deep and vivid than portrayed here. Progress on this has been impeded because I have to keep stopping to rub the oh-so-soft and luxurious fabric against my skin, then listen to my husband saying "hey, why didn't you knit MY cardigan in that?" :-)
Check out my blog for specs and more info. tinathegreek.blogspot.com
I attach my current works in progress (if only to assure myself that I will actually finish them one of these fine days).
1. Yet another blankie (based on the "Nina" shawl pattern in the MDK book, which is wonderful). You may notice some similarities in colours with the "funky blankie" I posted below. This is because I am a BAD DAUGHTER who, faced with having ordered too much yarn for the Nina blankie (which is meant to be a christmas present for my mother), decided to make another blankie for myself instead. My excuse... waiting for the last colour to come in for the Nina one. Yarn is my ever-favourite Super 10 mercerised cotton.
2. The Perfect Sweater in progress - knitted in Fleece Artist Kid Silk. Colours in the real-life yarn are much more deep and vivid than portrayed here. Progress on this has been impeded because I have to keep stopping to rub the oh-so-soft and luxurious fabric against my skin, then listen to my husband saying "hey, why didn't you knit MY cardigan in that?" :-)
Check out my blog for specs and more info. tinathegreek.blogspot.com
Saturday, November 25, 2006
Bubbly Curtain Finished!
Hello! I've been a long-time lurker. I started the Bubbly Curtain back during the summer and due to a few major KNOTS in my EuroFlax, I put the project down for a while... I finished it about two weeks ago, and here it is in all its glory. Hope you like! :)
P.S. A word to the wise: If you value your sanity, don't use a center-pull ball with this yarn! (Still grumbling about it...)
More pictures on my blog.
P.S. A word to the wise: If you value your sanity, don't use a center-pull ball with this yarn! (Still grumbling about it...)
More pictures on my blog.
Looks like a starfish!
I just finished my first Mason-Dixon Washcloth. It looks like a starfish! Won't lay flat. Is that the way it's supposed to be? I have written a little more about it in my blog.Happy Knitting :)
hakucho
http://hakucho.blogspot.com/
Experimental Jean Jacket
Here are 2 pictures of my MD jean jacket. The back piece is knit out of my first try at spinning a thickish singles; the color gradation turned out a little more abrupt than I'd like. The spindle chart is from Spin-Off magazine's 25th anniversary sweater froma few years back. The flower on the front is made from recycled sari silk (commercially spun) and handspun green for the leaves.
Miter Square Four Patch Dishcloth
Yarn: 2 colors of 4-ply worsted cotton:- Main color (MC): Lily brand Sugar ’n Cream, 2.5 oz/71 g. 120 yds, solid color: Light Blue, $1.49
- Contrast color (CC): Leftover Peaches & Crème yarn, 0.8 oz/22 g (about 38 yds) from a ball of 2 oz/57 g, 98 yds/90 m. Color #133: Shaded Denim, $2.40
- US 7 (4.5 mm) knitting needles (I used DPNs as straights)
- US G-7 (4.5 mm) crochet hook
Pattern: CD Cooper, based on concepts and instructions in Mason-Dixon Knitting book and blog.
Overview:
1. Make piece 1 (rectangle), starting at the short end.
2. Pick up stitches and make piece 2 (square). Together, piece 1 and 2 form an L-shaped piece of knitting.
3. Pick up stitches along piece 1 and 2 and make piece 3 (miter square)
4. Make the edging.
Finished size: About 9" square
Leftover yarn:
- MC: 1.8 oz/50 g (used 0.7 oz/20 g or 28% of ball)
- CC: 0.4 oz/11 g (used 0.4 oz/11 g or 20% of ball)
Notes:
- Slip the first st each row purlwise, and then bring yarn to the back to knit. This makes it easier to pick up stitches.
- Right side (RS): Cast-on tail is in lower right corner.
- Suspended bind off method is recommended.
- To prevent holes, pick up and twist sts as you place them on the needle.
Friday, November 24, 2006
Even More Ballbands
Holiday gifts galore! As soon as I finish a ballband warshrag, I immediately cast on for another one. That way, there's always one in progress. If I'm really on top of things, I keep a warshrag-in-progress in a little go-bag so I can take it with me during my commute. Such fun!
Xmas BallBands
For a little Christmas prezzie, I put together 2 Warshrags and a little face cloth (CO 33 stitches, and 9 bands) for my cousin. I paired them with handmade soap from the local Artsy Tartsy gift shop.
Here they are, in Christmas and Hanukkah colors...
And there's some more stuff about Warshing up at my blog.
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Two Down, Four To Go
I know it doesn't look like it, but the colors here are actually bright green, red and white. The top cloth got finished today. It's the opposite configuration of the cloth I finished last week (the one underneath).If I can finish just 4 more, I'll have enough for my ladies at lunch bunch. But, for now I think I'll find something that doesn't involve red, green or white. ;-)
Happy Thanksgiving!
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Just showing off my "Baby Genius Burp Cloth" blanket
Here's latest finished Mason-Dixon inspired object: "Baby Genius Burp Cloth" Blanket. The finished size is 50 x 66". The yarn I used was Joann's Sensations Rainbow Classic Brushed which is a very soft and cuddly yarn. Sorry it doesn't photograph very well and I wish you could feel just how soft it is. Maybe if you're interested in reading more, please check out my blog.Happy Thanksgiving!
hakucho
http://hakucho.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Mitered ~ and Bordered ~ Squares
I started this project in June and enjoyed it throughout the last five months. I have knitted some other things during that stretch as well, but I really appreciated its portability and summer coolness. The yarn is Reynolds Saucy bought the previous summer from Webs for this very project even though the book wasn't published; I just got inspired by the MDK blog. Details and prior posts at my blog, maggistitches.Ballband - Has anyone used/given it as a facecloth?
This is my very first post....I've lurked for a few months and have completed 4 ballbands and 3 bibs so far. I'm wondering related to the post about soaps...when you give a ballband (and who wouldn't want one!), do you "explain" its purpose - either for dishes or faces? I'm curious because I plan to give quite a few for Christmas gifts and I wondered if I gave it with a cute soap, if they would assume it is for use in the bath, but if I gave it with a dish soap, would they assume it is for the sink?
I personally have only used mine for dishes, and even my husband commented the other day that he really liked it! But, for gift giving, I love the idea of using a cute little soap.
So, if anyone has used it for any other purpose, I'd love to hear about it! And, if you do use/give it as a facecloth, have you used a different yarn?
Thanks!
I personally have only used mine for dishes, and even my husband commented the other day that he really liked it! But, for gift giving, I love the idea of using a cute little soap.
So, if anyone has used it for any other purpose, I'd love to hear about it! And, if you do use/give it as a facecloth, have you used a different yarn?
Thanks!
Courthousestep-Blanket - Stick a fork in me I'm done!
Hi there! Come on over and have a looksy at my third blanket this year! I still can't quite believe it, that it's done. For specs please read my blog. Thanks! ;o)
Monika
Scribble Scarf
Finally F.O., the Autumn Leaves Scribble Scarf made from Lion Brand Incredible nylon ribbon and a mystery thin yarn from my stash. The Incredible wasn't thick enough for a genuine scribble, but I'm pleased enough with the swishy results. Details on my blog.Monday, November 20, 2006
Baby days
I have so much enjoyed seeing the baby sweaters, but I had no excuse to knit one. Until now. My cousin gave birth to a little girl and I wasted no time in breaking out the sticks. It took just a weekend of intense but broken knitting. I added a crochet pico edge. I loved the pattern, although next time I would add an inch. There is pattern info about the matching hat and booties on my blog, http://knitaway.blogspot.com.
Ballbands....now I need some soap
Hey to all! I am busy knitting warshcloths for Christmas presents - 40 of em. (10 down - 30 to go). Now I need some lovely and/or funky soap to put with them. I also need it to NOT be expensive. Anyone have any ideas? I would appreciate any advice.
Ball-Band Thanksgiving Gift
Was just about to pop this into the mail when I remembered that I wanted to post a picture - the image quality is terrible because I used my cell phone's camera. Two ball-bands all wrapped up with a cake of Lavendar soap and ready to travel from Maryland to West Virginia.
Also, you if you have time to do a hat for a great cause, go to the Soaring Eagles Project or my blog for info.
Sunday, November 19, 2006
funky blankie...
Hi all:
Below please find a photo of a blanket I just finished (pre-blocking). It was inspired by the "Circle of Fun" in the Mason-Dixon book - thanks! - with some obvious additions. Yarn is Super 10 mercerized cotton.
As this is one of my first stabs at making modifications to projects, I am quite thrilled with it :-)
I must admit I've become addicted to blankets since getting the M-D book... I'm in the process of making the Nina Shawl x 2 as a Christmas gift for my mother.
Hope this finds you all well.
Regards,
Kristina
PS if anyone here is interested in stained glass mosaic, why not check out my blog at www.tinathegreek.blogspot.com ? (please pardon formatting errors as I am somewhat of a luddite when it comes to this stuff)
Below please find a photo of a blanket I just finished (pre-blocking). It was inspired by the "Circle of Fun" in the Mason-Dixon book - thanks! - with some obvious additions. Yarn is Super 10 mercerized cotton.
As this is one of my first stabs at making modifications to projects, I am quite thrilled with it :-)
I must admit I've become addicted to blankets since getting the M-D book... I'm in the process of making the Nina Shawl x 2 as a Christmas gift for my mother.
Hope this finds you all well.
Regards,
Kristina
PS if anyone here is interested in stained glass mosaic, why not check out my blog at www.tinathegreek.blogspot.com ? (please pardon formatting errors as I am somewhat of a luddite when it comes to this stuff)
Mason Dixon KAL
Mason Dixon KAL
Hi, I have just purchased MDK book and love it. I have started the warshrag, and co45 with #7 needles and Sugar & Cream. It seems like it's going to be gigantic. From everyone's experience with this yarn, what should the approx.finished size be?
Hi, I have just purchased MDK book and love it. I have started the warshrag, and co45 with #7 needles and Sugar & Cream. It seems like it's going to be gigantic. From everyone's experience with this yarn, what should the approx.finished size be?
Saturday, November 18, 2006
quick ball band question
Hi, I have made a few ball bands and want to do some more for Christmas, but the one I use in my kitchen seems to "grow" alot between washes. Has anyone tried to use a size 6 needle to see if a tighter weave work better when wet????
Mason Dixon Mini's
Cast on 27 to make a mini Mason Dixon warshrag. It's a wonderful compliment. 
Friday, November 17, 2006
I've Finally Jumped on the (Ball) Band Wagon
These are my first warshrags and I love them! What a great pattern. These will be going to one of my collegues for a small wedding present along with some hand soap and lotion for the kitchen. I modified by only doing 4 reps of the pattern (5 total) and I think next time I would use US 6s instead of 7s. I definitely see more of these in my knitting future!
Thursday, November 16, 2006
The Too-Pretty-To-Use Warshrag
This is my first warshrag. I love, love, love the ballband pattern!
And boy, is it pretty, if I do say so myself. It took me a while to figure it out, but I finally got it.
I used Lily Sugar N Cream cotton, in Sunshine and Hot Pink. I am thinking of expanding this out a bit, and making it 3 times longer, to make a matching hand towel for my sister. I think she'd appreciate it, and the colors. HOT!
Has anyone used something like wool or other types of yarns to make something with this pattern? I would imagine this would make a beautiful scarf, in a nice wool. Any ideas or success stories?
And boy, is it pretty, if I do say so myself. It took me a while to figure it out, but I finally got it.
I used Lily Sugar N Cream cotton, in Sunshine and Hot Pink. I am thinking of expanding this out a bit, and making it 3 times longer, to make a matching hand towel for my sister. I think she'd appreciate it, and the colors. HOT!
Has anyone used something like wool or other types of yarns to make something with this pattern? I would imagine this would make a beautiful scarf, in a nice wool. Any ideas or success stories?
Nina Shawl for Fall
I've heard knitters talk about being sad when a project ends. I wondered what that felt like. Now I know. I loved working with the colors on this project. (Actually, I'm still toying with the idea of embroidering on it....) A companion pillow will definitely have to happen someday.
I used Cascade Sierra, a cotton & wool blend. The colors are lush and the drape is lovely.
Mary
Ballbands
Ok Here I go again. Here is one of my ballbands using Faded Glory and Ecru. The other one I just switched the color. I love doing these and see how the colors are going to end up with the varigated. This one looks like to "v".
Dishcloths take over home, film at 11
These are the cloths I'm going to be giving away as gifts for the holidays. I have 17 ball band cloths & 13 mdk cloths plus 3 more cloths that aren't ball bands (they're in the picture--the duplicate bb's are in a bag).
I also have made matching/coordinating scrubbies to go along with the cloths. Some of my family members are getting 2-3 cloths, a scrubby or 2 & a copy of the cookbook my MOMS club had published. I'm also looking for some pretty dish soap dispensers to add & may put everything in a felted box if I have time!
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Sugar N Cream and Miters
I wanted to address the possible effect of Sugar and Cream shrinkage on mitered squares, which I used in my epic for me sugar and cream blanket (please don't shrink! or at least not unevenly!). I did wash my squares before seaming them, but in lukewarm water and then dried them flat to block. I don't anticipate exposing the blanket to the hot water and agitation a dishcloth gets, but it sounds like cold wash delicate might be in order.
All the same, I have felted mitered squares, and they did retain their square shape post-felting even though wool also shrinks more in length than width...maybe the geometry of it works.
Newbie with first FO!
Hello, I'm new to the KAL. My name is Lisa and I'm a thirty-six year old, mother to five. We are expecting #6 in January. I learned to knit a couple of years ago, though I haven't touched needles or yarn for about the past two years. I went back to school and just couldn't find the time for any kind of hobby at all. However, since I'm taking a break from school now for a while (with the baby coming and all) I though it would be the perfect time to take it up again. I've forgotten most of what I learned previously, so I'm basically re-learning.
Anyway, I got the book MDK from my library and it opened my eyes to all kinds of things that I can make. I never would have thought of knitting dishcloths, LOL! But you always need them...all year long. How fun! So I went and bought some P'nC and attempted my first ballband dishcloth. I'm planning more dishcloths and some kimonos for the new baby next.
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Log Cabin Before and After
I am finally getting around to posting pictures of my summer log cabins. They were baby gifts for a niece and nephew. To preserve bandwith, see the After pictures on my site. I went compulsive, as usual, and moved on to more cotton knitting. There's a description of the big blanket I made, inspired by the Log Cabins.
Ballbands
This is my second set of ballbands. I used Faded Glory and Ecru. I don't have a picture of the first set yet because I have to develop the film. This one I scanned into my computer. The first set I gave to my mom. She loves them.
Log Cabin Newbie
I'm about to start my very first log cabin blanket (I'm quite excited!) and I have a question: after finishing each strip, do I cut the yarn and then work in the new color in the next strip? I would think yes, simply because otherwise I'd end up with a mess of yarn on the wrong side that I wouldn't know what to do with anyways.
Thanks!
Thanks!
Baby banket suggestions?
I want to make a baby blanket for my SIL's new baby. I have an idea of a red background, a black and white intarsia puppy with a black and white checkered border. Could I use sugar and cream or peaches and cream to do this? I am concerned about the yarn fading and feeling rough after washing. Any thoughts? Any ideas for other yarns?
Are You Ready For...
...some Christmas?
Yarn: Cream 'N Sugar (red & white ombre and forest green)
Needles: Size 7
Changes:
1. Made the first stitch of every row a knit stitch.
2. Carrying the *non-working* yarn in one stitch and wove it back and forth. This gave the edge a neater appearance. It was worth the little bit of extra work.
I think this one will probably end up being part of a gift for my hairdresser.
Heirlooms Meet
A few years ago when I had just started knitting, my mother gave me some black tapestry yarn that had been my grandmother's and said, "Maybe you can use this someday." (Each hank cost my grandmother $.25.) I kept thinking maybe pillows for our bed but no patterns came to mind until I read the Mason Dixon book. Three pillows were born! Two are obvious - the log cabin and the big dotty. The triangles were inspired by the Woollythoughts web site (p. 67 in the book). Now they sit on our bed between a quilt that hangs on the wall (yes, it really is that crooked for some reason unknown to me!) made by my great-grandmother and a quilt that is at the foot of our bed made by our daughter.
Monday, November 13, 2006
Psychedelic Squares FINISHED
I started this blanket about three years ago when Kay first wrote about it on the blog. I've worked on it off and on since then, through multiple soccer, softball and swim team seasons. Finally, the book and an impatient 12 (now 13) year old pushed me to finish.
Combining two MDK signature elements -- Sugar N Cream and miters -- here is my daughter's candy-colored blanket in nature:
Combining two MDK signature elements -- Sugar N Cream and miters -- here is my daughter's candy-colored blanket in nature:
And in its natural setting:
More FOs
I Finally, I have some photos of new Mason Dixon FOs to share. I am proudest of the ball-band throw rug. I used 3 strands of regular Peaches and Creme and did it in 3 strips. Also, some warshrags, too.
Sunday, November 12, 2006
Addicted to MD Washcloths
I have caught the washcloth bug. Granted the ballband one didn't excite me (treason I know), but I can't stop making the Mason-Dixon washcloths. Here are the seven I have made so far. The conundrum is that I don't like using dishcloths even though I can't stop knitting them. I figure I will either make enough for a lap blanket or gift them for the upcoming holidays. The question now is how many can I make before I get tired of the pattern?Oh, you may have noticed that I have neglected to weave in the ends. The reason? I always have another dishcloth on the needles before I am even aware of the need to weave in the ends! Can't stop...must knit MD dishcloths...
First Post and FO
After lurking around for a while, first because I didn't have the book, then because I was just busy busy, I finally have an FO to show off.
I made a burp cloth .. one of many I suspect .. for my friend who just had a baby. Just regular Sugar 'n Cream cotton in obnoxiously pastel baby hues, but I think it's cute as can be. It's short because I ran out of yarn .. I thought I'd had more with me, and decided it was long enough so just bound off.
I made a burp cloth .. one of many I suspect .. for my friend who just had a baby. Just regular Sugar 'n Cream cotton in obnoxiously pastel baby hues, but I think it's cute as can be. It's short because I ran out of yarn .. I thought I'd had more with me, and decided it was long enough so just bound off.
Saturday, November 11, 2006
A whole mess 'o ball band washcloths
Count 'em! Six. All knit in October and the first week of November. For three baby showers at the office last week. Gifted in pairs in a nice canvas box tote (for corralling changing table clutter), with a hooded baby towel to match, and baby bath stuff, all topped with a rubber duck. CUTE gift. Good thing they are so easy, we have a FOURTH office pregnancy announced just yesterday! I swear, it has to be something in the water!!!!
Friday, November 10, 2006
Blankie Finished
Finished size approximately 38" x 28". US 10's for picking up & binding off stitches. US 9's for the general knitting.
Blue = Plymouth Jelly Beenz
Green & Yellow = Sirdar something DK
Now, to get the ends woven in before the shower on Sunday morning...
Potholder Loop Rug!
Finished my potholder loop rug last night and I love it! Nice and cushy under the toes when you step out of the shower and such cheerful colors. More details about the rug on my blog.
Debbie
www.gottaknit.typepad.com
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Ballband Wristbands
My kids think these are so cute but....is there a way to make them on DP's or circs? Any help? Thanks so much!
Lidded Felted Bobble Boxes
Presenting my latest creation, inspired by MD felted boxes. I wanted to make some felted bobbles like on the Noni Bobble Bag, but I wasn't sure I'd like them on the side of a box, so I decided to add a lid by knitting one more panel, with increases on each side to make sure it overlaps the sides, and put a bobble on top. I'd never made bobbles before (I learned from a great diy Network video link on this page - scroll down to the middle for bobbles). I still don't think I could knit enough bobbles to make the Noni bag, but knitting one is kinda fun.I've got other bits of colors for more bobbles left over from my big felted boxes, so guess what everyone I know is getting for Christmas!
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
HELP! with Felted Boxes
I am having issues today, I've finished my first felted box and I cannot figure out how to fold it...do you fold "IN" on the rows (so they are inside the box)...or do you fold "OUT".
I've read and re-read the instructions. Can't figure which is the RS vs. WS, I checked in the archives and even held up the sides, but I don't know which way to fold...Thanks for helping.
I've read and re-read the instructions. Can't figure which is the RS vs. WS, I checked in the archives and even held up the sides, but I don't know which way to fold...Thanks for helping.
Cotton Yarn Stash
I am unpacking my yarns into my fiber studio.. I have been purchasing cotton yarn for months now- building my stash and then started purchasing some new colors once I got the MD book. I also started purchasing Knit Picks Crayon- pima cotton. It makes nice facecloths and washcloths for babies- soo soft (I also plan on knitting a shawl out of it-striped full of all the fun colors)... Anyways.. my mom brought me over 3 huge bags of yarn the other day.. Tons of dishcloth cotton!! all brand new- she found at a thrift store.. I can officially say for the time being that I have enough dishcloth cotton! She also brought big balls of yarn of reclaimed yarn from sweaters.. My mom unraveled them.. There is wool, chenille, ribbon yarn, and other novelty yarns all waiting to be knitted into shawls!
The basked under the telephone table is half pima cotton skiens and half sugar and cream- the long skinny skiens are fingering cotton- there are about 10 of them. The shelves contain all dishcloth cotton. I will be knitting lots of dishcloths, towels and ball band wristlets and tp covers for christmas..
I am having fun organizing my yarn stash.. Dh just brought up several more boxes of wool yarn! I need more shelves I think!
Many Blessings, Debra
Dishcloth-o-rama!
I finally got around to digging some kitchen cotton out of my stash and making ballband dishcloths.
The one on the left will stay in my kitchen. It's made of Peaches & Creme. The one on the right is a combo of P & C and Sugar 'n Cream, and it will go to a friend in Minnesota who made a ballband dishcloth for me last month.
I really like the pattern; it's challenging enough to keep me interested but easy enough to knit while watching TV, talking with someone or listening to music. I look forward to making many more of these. I'm amazed at how little yarn they require!
The one on the left will stay in my kitchen. It's made of Peaches & Creme. The one on the right is a combo of P & C and Sugar 'n Cream, and it will go to a friend in Minnesota who made a ballband dishcloth for me last month.
I really like the pattern; it's challenging enough to keep me interested but easy enough to knit while watching TV, talking with someone or listening to music. I look forward to making many more of these. I'm amazed at how little yarn they require!
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Sail away
I started these bibs with plenty of time, but the baby came way early. Luckily, both he and mom are doing well. The bibs are knitted in Peaches and Cream. After reading comments about whether to wash or not, I opted to wash I had a little bit of bleeding with the blue, but none with the other. The only problem I encountered was difficulty in rejoining the yarn. It took just three tries to realize I had to start from the side in the middle rather than the edge. (oops) I really enjoy seeing all your work - it's so inspirational.
JKnits
http://knitaway.blogspot.com
Grocery bag button-hole bag
I really have Splindarella to thank for the idea for this project. I used grocery bags for the buttonhole bag pattern- very meta. I used it for the first time this weekend and am very surprised at the weight of the bag itself and the strength of it. I orignially planned to line it, but the logisitics baffled me so I let it go. I am quite thrilled with the result and plan to do more with different color bags. I think they will make good (cheap) gifts for the holidays, provided the giftees have a sense of humor!
Maybe the black and gold theme will encourage the Steelers to save their season!
what I did last week
We were in the middle of a move but I needed to ease my stress.. So I knitted at night.. I am stocked for fall colored dishcloths now..
Now it is time to knit the Christmas colored dishcloths..
Blessings, Debra
Finally!
I totally procrastinated adding the inner tie (two single crochet chains) and ribbons, but now it's finally done! And this afternoon I'll deliver it to it's new owner, Lenci. So here, finally, is my hot purple SnC Kimono! (The ribbons are purple gingham- hard to tell from the photo.)
Now I'm working feverishly to complete my Mom's Nina Shawl in time for Christmas (among other things of course...).
And I have a confession- I've tried twice now to knit the ubiquitous ballband washcloth... and I don't like knitting it!! How can this be? I just love seeing all your completed ones- the colors, the variety- and everyone seems so enthusiastic about the pattern. Could it be that the plaid pattern I tried right before it was too fun and ruined the ballband pattern for me? Was it my color selection (which even my hubby noticed looked great in the plaid stitch)? I feel like I'm really missing out on something here... My plan was to knit sets of three cloths in the same colors and different patterns for Christmas gifts, but the ballband just isn't working for me! I will try again in two solid colors (I was using a solid and a varigated) but maybe after the holidays... I hope I'll still be welcome here ;)
-Lynne
Rug question
Hello all,
Do you think that absorba could work as a front door mat? and if so what shoudl she be knit out of? Would suguar and cream hold up to the abraisive red georgia dirt and frequent washings?
Thanks,
Anla
http://butterflyanla6318.blogspot.com/
Do you think that absorba could work as a front door mat? and if so what shoudl she be knit out of? Would suguar and cream hold up to the abraisive red georgia dirt and frequent washings?
Thanks,
Anla
http://butterflyanla6318.blogspot.com/
Light, Bright Baby Log Cabin
This has long since become a finished, well-used, well-loved object, but all I could find was this in-progress shot:
It's from 3 different cotton yarns, more info at my blog, click here.
It's from 3 different cotton yarns, more info at my blog, click here.
Monday, November 06, 2006
Modified MDK Kimono (Part II a.k.a. Finished)
I tend to have issues finishing projects after I get done with the knitting. This MDK Kimono has been collecting dust for quite some time, but I finally finished it!
Ended up crocheting around the neck, didn't sew down the sleeves all the way but left a small slit (for small spunky baby hands) and crocheted a sturdy border around the edge.
Used clear small snaps to close up the Kimono, thanks to the answers I got on this KAL! Thankyou:) I hadn't even considered the snaps, but they really look prim and neat.
Now for the matching hat, it's half done (14" circumference, 110 stitches in Dale Stork, sz2 needles) Same pattern as kimono, edge in moss stitch ,then fun stripes. It should be done soon! (Baby is due in one month, I may be done in time!!) Does anybody have patterns for baby booties?? I was thinking probably solid colored in blue or the seafoam green..//Linda
New and never did this before
Thought I was getting too old for uncharted territory but... I have not joined a KAL before or started a blog. Read everyone else's but never wanted to take the time to figure this all out, but the times are changing. Anyways, finally bought the book about two weeks ago and immediately whipped out 6 warshrags of different color combos depleting my stash. Am currently awaiting a shipment from the lovely yarn company. I live so way out in the woods I have no sources to buy yarn and have to order everything. So I knew I was on to something after I looked at the KAL page and became inspired in about 26 ways. Now I really need to learn how to take those pictures and upload them to the computer. I have so resisted new technology, but now is the time........... Christine
Mitered Square Madness--Methodized
Here is Noro Silk Garden Colorway #247--look how pretty the colors knit out:
For Colorway #249, CLICK HERE. Apparently, the second half of my Mason Dixon-Inspired Mitered Square Throw Blanket is going to take FOREVER. I now have 49 of 80 total squares--OOOF! Those final 31 may take me all winter at the rate I am going with school, tutoring, substituting, living, and breathing all getting in the way.
Holly of HollYarns
For Colorway #249, CLICK HERE. Apparently, the second half of my Mason Dixon-Inspired Mitered Square Throw Blanket is going to take FOREVER. I now have 49 of 80 total squares--OOOF! Those final 31 may take me all winter at the rate I am going with school, tutoring, substituting, living, and breathing all getting in the way.
Holly of HollYarns
It Grows....
The baby blanket is now 24" wide by 32.5" tall. The yarn pictured is all that's left. I'm going to keep knitting till the yarn runs out. Now that it's getting bigger, each section takes more yarn, so I don't think my yarn will last too many more times around. The baby shower is this Sunday morning; looks like it will be done in plenty of time (though I'm dreading the weaving-in of ends!!!).
Circle of fun rug
This rug was crazy fun to make. The bands aren't as tedious as you might expect, if you aren't a garter-stitch aficionado. The hardest part was figuring out complementary color combinations. I'm going with just 3 colors for the next one - one main color paired with only 2 others.
You can read my thoughts about this and some other knitting projects at Katzundyarner Bits.
I believe rugs should be machine washable so I made this in the work horse of superwash wool, Plymouth Encore. The yield does not match the original yarn so you will end up with lots extra when using 4 colors; maybe not so much using 3 colors.
You can read my thoughts about this and some other knitting projects at Katzundyarner Bits.
I believe rugs should be machine washable so I made this in the work horse of superwash wool, Plymouth Encore. The yield does not match the original yarn so you will end up with lots extra when using 4 colors; maybe not so much using 3 colors.
The Cow's Tail
As usual, I am the cow's tail. I think I must be one of the last people to succumb to the temptation of purchasing the Mason Dixon knitting book. In keeping with my cow's tail status I have started a project from the end of the book. I'm at work now so I will post a photo later from home. I'm knitting the "godmother" edging for a beautiful basket I bought from Claire Murray. I'll be lining the basket with a rose chintz and putting the edging on it. I'm using my favorite fiber, Paton's Grace in a deep pink. As soon as I can get to my local Wallyworld store, I'll be buying some peaches and cream to do the ballband dishcloth thus ending my cow's tail status.
Photo to be posted later this evening (I hope).
So glad to join all of you in this fun endeavor.
Donna
Photo to be posted later this evening (I hope).
So glad to join all of you in this fun endeavor.
Donna
Sunday, November 05, 2006
Log Cabin Update
Hi
It's been a long time since I've posted here. I've been making progress on my Log Cabin that I started in May. Details on my blog. :-)
Karen
http://theknittingpatch.blogspot.com
It's been a long time since I've posted here. I've been making progress on my Log Cabin that I started in May. Details on my blog. :-)
Karen
http://theknittingpatch.blogspot.com
Some FOs
I've enjoyed looking at everyone's work and thought it would be fun to add some of mine to the mix. So far, I've also completed a number of dishcloths and mitered squares (which I plan on sewing together one of these days). As you can probably see from the picture, my garter stitch hat came out way too big for a newborn, so I'm going to frog it and try it again.
Ball Band Toilet Paper Cover Pattern
I just finished posting the pattern for this toilet paper cover on my blog for those requesting it. I always love reading your lovely comments. Thank you :)
Happy Knitting :)
hakucho
http://hakucho.blogspot.com/
My first dishcloth!
So I finished my very first ballband discloth this week! Check it out on my blog here. I'm quite pleased. I'm going to make a few more as stocking stuffers for friends for Xmas, so I'm pleased I was able to do it. As I'm a novice knitter, I wasn't sure if the pattern would be too complicated, and in fact, it's not. Now I can join up with the dishcloth exchanges I've been eyeing! Anyone recommend any? (just to know if any are better than others) Thanks!
Hey y'all, and greetings from South Carolina! I just joined this knitalong, a few days before I finished my first kimono. I needed a quick baby shower gift so I reached for my newly-acquired MDK book (I know, where have I been, the book has been around a while!). I liked the kimono, but wanted to see some more before starting, and a google search led me to this here knitalong. Wow, there are some gorgeous kimonos here! I especially love the ones that do something unique with the pattern, like adding stripes, using fancy yarn, or doing something different with the ribbon. I got a lot of tips, too, and I'm grateful (like adding a second tie to the inside flap to keep it in place). I finished my kimono yesterday morning, in time for the shower. Here it is (on the super shag carpet in our playroom, ha).
My own MDK baby kimono
Knitted with slightly more than one skein of TLC Cotton Plus
using size 6 Denise Interchangeables
More details at my blog, Knits and Grits
Knitted with slightly more than one skein of TLC Cotton Plus
using size 6 Denise Interchangeables
More details at my blog, Knits and Grits
Too bad the mother-to-be hates pink. I'm not kidding--after opening about 20 gifts where nearly every item was pink, she opened a gift from her mother that had primary-colored clothes in it and said "Thank goodness my mom gave me stuff in different colors. She knows I hate pink." There was a pretty awkward silence all around. Next time I may not knit for someone I don't know all that well.
But anyway, I really loved knitting this. I made a few mods to the pattern as written, using the knitted cast on for the sleeve increases, and a sloped cast off on the other side of the sleeves. The selvage edges were nice and smooth that way. I also did eyelets down the side of the front panel, without increasing beyond 40 stitches, by working a k2tog immediately after the yo (which is how the model in the book appears to have been made, even though the pattern doesn't seem to mention it).
Now I have plans for a few ballband dishcloths, and another kimono is probably in my near future--but I will be sure to ask what colors the mom likes next time around!
But anyway, I really loved knitting this. I made a few mods to the pattern as written, using the knitted cast on for the sleeve increases, and a sloped cast off on the other side of the sleeves. The selvage edges were nice and smooth that way. I also did eyelets down the side of the front panel, without increasing beyond 40 stitches, by working a k2tog immediately after the yo (which is how the model in the book appears to have been made, even though the pattern doesn't seem to mention it).
Now I have plans for a few ballband dishcloths, and another kimono is probably in my near future--but I will be sure to ask what colors the mom likes next time around!
New Here
Hi,
I just joined this blog. My name is Michelle. I'm a 28 (29 soon) year old single mother. I live in Canada and work as a Licensed Practical Nurse.
I love the Mason Dixon book. :) I'm addicted to the ballband cloth right now. I'm just finishing one in green and red. After I'm done this one I'm going to reverse the colours and then I will have a set. I'm planning on giving lots of ballband sets and coordinating hanging towels as Christmas gifts.
I'm so happy to be here.
Take care,
Michelle
I just joined this blog. My name is Michelle. I'm a 28 (29 soon) year old single mother. I live in Canada and work as a Licensed Practical Nurse.
I love the Mason Dixon book. :) I'm addicted to the ballband cloth right now. I'm just finishing one in green and red. After I'm done this one I'm going to reverse the colours and then I will have a set. I'm planning on giving lots of ballband sets and coordinating hanging towels as Christmas gifts.
I'm so happy to be here.
Take care,
Michelle
Friday, November 03, 2006
Modern Log Cabin Blanket
My first post on MD KAL. I completed my biggest knitting project to date-a Modern Log Cabin blanket for my youngest son. I started the blanket in July and it was completed October 16th. I chose the colors based upon those he chose for the art in his college apartment. The yarns I used were Plymouth Galway (Orange, Dark Orange, Chocolate Brown, Green, and Cream) and Nature Spun (Grecian Olive) on size 7 needles.
The colorway turned out beautifully. My son loved how it looks and actually makes his bed now- a first in his 19 years! The blanket turned out to be very large- Queen sized in fact. I love how it turned out. Now my husband wants one for us- not sure I want another Queen sized blanket, but I wouldn't mind one to curl up with on the sofa!
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Next ballband question
You guys have convinced me that I can do this! I'm the mother of the bride, I am invincible. Besides, my daughter already bought the net thingies, so we have a backup.
Next question: has anyone used anything besides Sugar/Peaches and Cream? I'm just thinking maybe something a little nicer... that might not fade as much.
I may be totally overthinking this -- they are WARSHRAGS for Pete's sake! But if anyone has experience with other yarns, let me know.
Thanks!
Debbie
Next question: has anyone used anything besides Sugar/Peaches and Cream? I'm just thinking maybe something a little nicer... that might not fade as much.
I may be totally overthinking this -- they are WARSHRAGS for Pete's sake! But if anyone has experience with other yarns, let me know.
Thanks!
Debbie
Lincoln Logs
Log Cabin Throw for Mom. I have tons of stash yarn in the colors of her sitting room. (It's very Moroccan with lots of orange and gold and creams.)
Here's the problem I'm having right now: I can't decide if I want to knit the log cabin blanket in long, long, long, long heavy never ending rows of garter stitch -OR- if I want to knit 9 smaller, more manageable squares, but then have to do miles and miles and miles of seaming.
Here is my progress as of a few days ago. It's getting down to the wire about the blocks... I could always do 4 large blocks. Ugh. I can't make decisions!!!!
Here's the problem I'm having right now: I can't decide if I want to knit the log cabin blanket in long, long, long, long heavy never ending rows of garter stitch -OR- if I want to knit 9 smaller, more manageable squares, but then have to do miles and miles and miles of seaming.
Here is my progress as of a few days ago. It's getting down to the wire about the blocks... I could always do 4 large blocks. Ugh. I can't make decisions!!!!
Looking for Advice
I have knit a thousand baby blankets. Well maybe not a thousand but it feels that way. Has any one knit the bibs from the book and used them on a real kid? I would not want to make them for presents if they cannot hold mashed carrots.
Oooooh, baby!
I finally finished the baby kimono/bib sets for my friend's son -- lucky for me he's a couple of days late! I do love how the kimonos turn out, but boy, do I ever hate the seaming. I used crocheted ties inside and a single large snap to hold the front closed. The little "bobble" on the front of each kimono is a separate crocheted piece that I tacked down over the spot where the snap ruffled the fabric up. Combined with the orange/pink/yellow ombre kimono I finished last month for my colleague's new baby, that's enough kimono knitting for me for awhile! :)
http://splindarella05.blogspot.com/
Ball Band Toilet Paper Cover
I just love ball bands so much that I just had to make a "Ball Band" toilet paper cover! I really thought that the extra roll sitting on the back of my commode really needed a cover up :) Don't you think the ball pattern suits the roll? You can read more about it in my blog.
I really have to thank Kay and Ann for their inspiration. I have to give them the credit for my being able to try to knit some of the things that I have been knitting lately...all because of their wonderful book.
Happy knitting :)
hakucho
http://hakucho.blogspot.com/
I really have to thank Kay and Ann for their inspiration. I have to give them the credit for my being able to try to knit some of the things that I have been knitting lately...all because of their wonderful book.
Happy knitting :)
hakucho
http://hakucho.blogspot.com/
How long to knit one Ball Band Warshrag?
My daughter's wedding is November 11. The bridal luncheon is Nov. 10. We were talking on the phone today, and she said, "So, are the washclothes you were knitting for the bridesmaids done?"
WHAT WASHCLOTHES???? Apparently in a fit of pre-wedding generosity I had offered to knit washclothes to go with the personal spa gift sets my daughter has put together for the bridesmaids. I think I had some sort of elegant, lacy items in Euroflax in mind. Of course, I promptly forgot all about it.
So here is my question: Can I, in the next week, knock out 3 ball-bands? I knit at a moderate speed. Oh - I am also making the wedding cake. I will have 5 hours of knitting time on the airplane, and will be able to grab other moments in the following week. And I could knit at night...
Or should I tell her to go to Walmart and buy 3 of those net thingies??
Thanks,
Debbie
WHAT WASHCLOTHES???? Apparently in a fit of pre-wedding generosity I had offered to knit washclothes to go with the personal spa gift sets my daughter has put together for the bridesmaids. I think I had some sort of elegant, lacy items in Euroflax in mind. Of course, I promptly forgot all about it.
So here is my question: Can I, in the next week, knock out 3 ball-bands? I knit at a moderate speed. Oh - I am also making the wedding cake. I will have 5 hours of knitting time on the airplane, and will be able to grab other moments in the following week. And I could knit at night...
Or should I tell her to go to Walmart and buy 3 of those net thingies??
Thanks,
Debbie
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
Newest Log Cabin Blankie
OK, I guess I am CRAZY, but I just finished my second Log Cabin Blankie! I made the first one out of Koigu, and my youngest daughter said, "Will you make me one?" My first answer was, "NO!" My fingers were still tired from the first one. I thought about it and decided to be a nice mother and make her one. Made this one out cotton (a mixture of Clip and Provence). Here are the pics -
Joy
Absorba Questions
I cast on my first Absorba today and just fininshed reading many of your posts regarding your Absorbas. I'm using 4 strands of worsted SnC in Hot Blue, size 15 Denise needles, and have just finished the center. I can't decide whether to bind off or keep the stitches 'live' and was wondering about your experiences with this pattern. If I keep the stitches live, I will avoid the appearance of the stockinette row when I pick up my stitches. I'm wondering if the 'log cabin' effect is lost at all if you don't bind off each section.
Based on some of your posts, I way over-ordered for this project ( 22 2.5 ounce skeins). Good thing I like Hot Blue! I was glad to read that this is a quick knit. My hands are not sore, but my recovering knitter's elbow is killing me. The things we do for love...
Based on some of your posts, I way over-ordered for this project ( 22 2.5 ounce skeins). Good thing I like Hot Blue! I was glad to read that this is a quick knit. My hands are not sore, but my recovering knitter's elbow is killing me. The things we do for love...
New attempt: Ballbands Abound!
Check it out everyone, my first attempt at the ballband dishcloth! I'm using the odds n' sods I've got in my stash for the coloured parts, and after a few false starts, I managed to get through the first set of reps pretty decently. I'm quite pleased with how it's turned out so far, and can't wait till I start to get into the other colours in my ball. I'll post again once it's done. :-D
Knit Sock Kit Swap » I Feel Like the Sorting Hat
Knit Sock Kit Swap » I Feel Like the Sorting Hat: "The Questionnaire:
What are your favorite colors? Purple, pink, royal blue
Are you a new mitt knitter? How long have you been knitting mittens? Never knitted a mitten.
Do you prefer solid or multicolored yarn? Multicolored, but solid is nice too
What fibers do you prefer in mitten yarn? i don't know, prolly wool?
Where do you usually knit mittens? Prolly on my lunch break at my lys
How do you usually carry/store small projects? in a zippered plastic makeup pouch, in a larger bag
What are your favorite mitten patterns? poptop stuff, convertibles
What are your favorite mitten knitting techniques?none
What new techniques would you like to try? i dunno yet
What are your favorite needles for knitting mittens? ebony for everything!
What are some of your favorite yarns? noro yarn is awesome, or collinette
What yarn do you totally covet? collinette and noro, hand dyed stuff with lovely color changes
Any pattern you would love to make if money and time were no object? not off the top9 of my head
Favorite kind of needles (brand, materials, straights or circs, etc)? ebony circs or dpns or bamboo
If you were a specific kind of yarn, which brand and kind of yarn would you be? something soft from collinette
Do you have a favorite candy or mail-able snack? chocolte
What’s your favorite animal? none
Would you prefer super warm mittens or something more like fingerless mitts? i live in south alabama, we have cold days, but its november and 85 here. waterproof/breathable would be the bomb
If you were a color what color would you be? purple
What is your most inspiring image, flower, or object in nature? tulips
Do you have a wishlist? somewhere round here
Anything else you’d like to share with the group today?"
What are your favorite colors? Purple, pink, royal blue
Are you a new mitt knitter? How long have you been knitting mittens? Never knitted a mitten.
Do you prefer solid or multicolored yarn? Multicolored, but solid is nice too
What fibers do you prefer in mitten yarn? i don't know, prolly wool?
Where do you usually knit mittens? Prolly on my lunch break at my lys
How do you usually carry/store small projects? in a zippered plastic makeup pouch, in a larger bag
What are your favorite mitten patterns? poptop stuff, convertibles
What are your favorite mitten knitting techniques?none
What new techniques would you like to try? i dunno yet
What are your favorite needles for knitting mittens? ebony for everything!
What are some of your favorite yarns? noro yarn is awesome, or collinette
What yarn do you totally covet? collinette and noro, hand dyed stuff with lovely color changes
Any pattern you would love to make if money and time were no object? not off the top9 of my head
Favorite kind of needles (brand, materials, straights or circs, etc)? ebony circs or dpns or bamboo
If you were a specific kind of yarn, which brand and kind of yarn would you be? something soft from collinette
Do you have a favorite candy or mail-able snack? chocolte
What’s your favorite animal? none
Would you prefer super warm mittens or something more like fingerless mitts? i live in south alabama, we have cold days, but its november and 85 here. waterproof/breathable would be the bomb
If you were a color what color would you be? purple
What is your most inspiring image, flower, or object in nature? tulips
Do you have a wishlist? somewhere round here
Anything else you’d like to share with the group today?"
Stockinette Log Cabin
This is for my cousin's first baby, expected to arrive in February. I started it before they knew the sex, but now they know it is a girl. The blanket measures about 58 by 58 inches, and was made from Patons Canadiana. It's 100% acrylic, but very soft, and hopefully will stand up to the washing I'm sure it will get. The border is the "picture frame" border, but with seed stitch. It needed a good solid border to keep the ends from curling in. I'll see the family at Thanksgiving and can only hope that they will like it!
one-skein nesting noro
No, that's not the first line of a haiku. This special set of Kay's boxes (knit by Kay, lucky me!) was made with one skein of Kureyon and has me thinking about holiday gifts. There's another picture here with stitch counts for the bases. Enjoy! Kimono Cristina
