Destash Sock Yarn and Save a Life

Save the Children and Warm Up America! are asking knitters and crocheters
across the U.S. to pick up their needles and hooks to help save
the lives of nearly four million newborn babies in the developing world.

The Caps for Good grassroots initiative will run through February, 2011. People of all ages are encouraged to join in by making one or more caps; writing to policymakers; and, if possible, donating money (a little or a lot) to provide newborn care in developing countries.

At the end of the program, all of the collected caps will be distributed to pregnant women and new moms and their babies in Save the Children's programs in Asia, Africa and Latin America.

For more information--and to download a Caps for Good Action Kit with free patterns and more ways to get involved--visit Save the Children's website: www.goodgoes.org/caps

(Note: I designed the little hat shown above to send to Afghans for Afghans a couple of years ago. If enough knitters show interest, I can write it up and post it for download on Ravelry. Just let me know!)

Destash Sock Yarn and Save a Life

Ma Rêve (My Dream)

Les Deux Magots, 6 place Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Since I was a child, I've dreamed of going to France. Notice I didn't say "visiting" or "taking a vacation to" France. No, I really and truly mean going to. It's my goal, my wish, ma rêve.

I can recall studying while I babysat for a family in Mill Valley (where I spent two years at Tamalpais High School). Working hard, I promised myself that my ultimate reward would be working as a lawyer and having a gorgeous corner office in Paris. But I am a writer and knitting designer, and don't want to be a lawyer anymore.

Studying French from junior high school in the San Francisco Bay Area through college at University of Pennsylvania, in Philadelphia, I became as close to fluent as is possible without actually living amongst French-speaking people. Meanwhile, as I explored and reveled in the intricacies of the language, I also immersed myself in French culture, literature, art (Watteau, Renoir and Dufy), and music (Piaf and so much more!).

Later in my life, I could see myself as an old woman, living in a Paris apartment with tall shuttered windows looking over a little cobble-stoned courtyard. Sun would stream through them in the morning, and I could look out over some shade trees.

I'd have some sweet French-speaking kitties, of course, and would be a famous writer. I would live alone (treasuring solitude), write every day, go to lovely cafes and watch people strolling by, meet with my publishers and editors, and mingle with the literati at modern-day salons.

Chez Julien on Rue des Barres (close to Church Saint-Gervais)

Well, my life has once again adjusted itself, offering me the possibility to make my dream come true. I've yet to achieve the level of fame I dreamt of, but I'm working on that. I have time alone, and will have more of it in the near future. I also have time to find my little apartment, to figure out a way to move to Paris, to live there, to work there, and to navigate the mountains of bureaucratic red-tape for which France is famous.

Funny how life throws you a curve ball now and then. You don't see it coming. Maybe the pitch hits you and you double over in agony. But then you say: "Enough!" You stand straight again, you eye the pitcher, and you wait for the perfect fast ball to sail over the plate. You work the count, and then there it is. You swing, the ball sails toward the center field fences... (Have you had enough of my baseball analogy yet?)

Paris, to me, represents beauty, mystery, and opportunity. Perhaps some people see my plan as escapism. As "immature." What they don't understand, though, is that this has been a life-long determination, born of some inner knowledge -- instinct, if you will -- which, for me, makes going to Paris a "running toward," rather than "running away."

After all, what's "running away" about intending to live alone, to spend time with myself, to use solitude to get on with my life's work, writing. No, this is more than just a pie-in-the-sky fantasy. I am facing my future as I've always seen it, not seeking an easy way out. And that's why I will do this. And that's why it will work.

Alors, je vous souhaites le tricotage heureux!

(Translation: I wish you happy knitting!)

Ma Rêve (My Dream)

Sock Yarn One-Skein Wonders: 101 fun knits, including my Clover Honey Shawlette!

Cover Courtesy and (c) Storey Publishing

Sock Yarn One-Skien Wonders: 101 Patterns That Go Way Beyond Socks!, edited by Judith Durant--the latest edition in the popular One-Skein Wonders series--is now available (review coming soon!).

I have to tell you, even if I didn't have a pattern in this book, I'd have been happily anticipating its release. I do, however, have a pattern in this latest knitter's goodie bag: the Clover Honey Shawlette...

Clover Honey Shawlette in Shalimar Yarns' Zoe Sock (color: Snow Pea)

When I designed the prototype for the Clover Honey Shawlette, back in October 2008, "shawlette fever" hadn't yet begun to spread. Since then, however, they've become wildly popular. (Please don't misunderstand...I am not suggesting that I had anything to do with this.)

In my opinion, the appeal of these little wraps is well-founded: They're versatile, quick to knit, and most use only a skein or so of fingering-weight yarn. Plus, their smaller size makes them less "granny-ish," a concern of many women, especially those of un certain age ;)

A close-up of the "prototype" shawlette in Zoe Sock (color: Dirty Sand)

The beads are applied when you bind-off, and add a little sparkle that really makes the shawl stand out. Also, their weight (the beads I used were Czech glass) -- along with the Faroese shaping -- helps keep the shawl on your shoulders. Adding the beads is easy, easy, easy! For the visual learners among us, I wrote a tutorial, illustrated with photos by Kristi Johnson, dye-genius behind Shalimar Yarns. You can find the tutorial here.

Sure, you're going to rush out and buy the book. But until then, here are some particulars, so you can get ready to knit up a Clover Honey Shawlette of your own:

• Size: 46 in. wide at top edge; 16 in. long from top (at neck) to bottom of lace panel
• Yarn: One skein Shalimar Yarns' Zoe Sock (100% Superwash Merino Wool, 100g/450yd)
• Needles: US #5/3.75mm 32-in circular needles
  

The Book
Sock Yarn One-Skein Wonders: 101 Patterns that go way beyond socks!
Judith Durant, editor
Published by Storey Publishing.

Preserve our small businesses: Please purchase this book at your local yarn store or independent bookseller!

PS> You may also purchase the Clover Honey Shawlette pattern here :)

Sock Yarn One-Skein Wonders: 101 fun knits, including my Clover Honey Shawlette!

Violetta: My pattern -- on the cover!

It's my own pattern...on the cover of Yarn Forward magazine! Yipee!!!

Violetta is a tailored little jacket that I designed to see you through these transitional seasons. Knit up in Rowan Belle Organic DK (color: Peony), a lovely blend of 50 percent organic wool and 50 percent organic cotton, this sweater offers just the right amount of warmth without adding bulk.

With a broad range of sizes, visible "Princess seams," cool stitch pattern, optional pockets, and enough ease for layering, Violetta just might become your go-to sweater this year!

If your bookstore carries Yarn Forward, check it out -- it's a great magazine (thus why I submitted patterns to them). And if you have problems finding it, you can always pick up an electronic copy at Yudu.

Happy knitting!

Violetta: My pattern -- on the cover!

Tea, anyone?

Cheery Cherry Tea Cozy on 8-cup teapot

Oh, teapot cozies, how I love them! Quick to knit as a hat, but with ample opportunities for delightful camp- and quirkiness.

This is my favorite yet: The Cheery Cherry Tea Cozy (Ravelry link). Plump little cherries burst forth against their background of robin's egg blue, edged with chocolate brown. And the grassy green of the leaves is echoed by the vine-like, I-cord, drawstring closure. What fun!


I was inspired to design this little cozy almost two years ago, when we moved into our current home -- a little cottage in Western Maryland. The three big windows in the kitchen let in the afternoon sun, and provide excellent squirrel watching opportunities for the kitties (see top photo).

The pale aqua on the walls just cried out for bright red (my favorite kitchen color). And I've always loved cherry motifs. It was only a matter of time before these ideas took physical form -- and a matter of, well, more time before I charted and test knit the pattern.

The Cheery Cherry Tea Cozy is a quick knit -- you don't have to work the chart on the back. In fact, you could skip the intarsia altogether, and embroider the cherries, stems, and leaves in duplicate stitch. How you approach the colorwork is up to you. Remember, knitting is fun, right?

Cheery Cherry Tea Cozy on 4-cup teapot

I'll be finalizing this pattern over the weekend, and will post it for sale on Ravelry in the next few days. You can purchase it directly from me (knitsix@gmail.com).

Just in time for that piping-hot, freshly brewed cup of relaxation we often crave during the holiday season. Or perhaps for gift-giving, for a very special person -- the kind you'd drink tea with while chatting about this and that.

Meanwhile, happy knitting and baking and shopping and merry-making and, well, you know...

Tea, anyone?

Cheery Cherry Tea Cozy (a new pattern & preliminary photos)

Finally! A tea cozy cute enough to display on your tea pot year-round...

Cheery Cherry Tea Cozy, drying after a very light fulling

My favorite kitchen designs come from Scandinavia, which often feature ruby red, snowy white, and robin's egg blue. I also happen to like cherries -- always have.

So when we moved into our cottage with its pale aqua-blue walls, there was only one thing to do: Hunt down yards of retro cherry fabric, a perfect-red throw rug, a bunch of yarn (of course!) and get creative.

The result (well, one of them), you see before you... A lovely tea cozy with a draw-string top, juicy intarsia cherries, and chocolate-brown trim. Makes me hungry just thinking about it!

Another view of Cheery Cherry Tea Cozy, sans tripod

Cheery Cherry comes in two sizes to fit classic tea pots. The sample above was made with Ella Rae Classic Wool in light blue and dark brown, a few yards of red and green from my stash, and US#7/4.5 mm circular needles.

The intarsia pattern is straightforward, and you have the choice of knitting cherries on both sides, or only on the front. You could also work the cherry chart on one side and a stranded or embroidered pattern on the other. The options are limited only by your imagination.

Want some Cheery Cherries of your own? The pattern will be available for purchase and immediate download on Ravelry no later than Wednesday, 2 December.

Just in time for last-minute holiday gift knitting (yes, it's that quick and easy).

Meanwhile, to my US (and expat) readers, and to everyone else who celebrates tomorrow's holiday: I wish you and yours a safe and happy Thanksgiving Day. May it include some quiet time for relaxing with your knitting, crochet, or other artistic endeavor. Enjoy!


(BTW: Sorry for the poor photo quality...I can't find my tripod, and my camera is having issues dealing with reds. I'll post some better photos when the cozy is dry and I can put it on my tea pot.)

Cheery Cherry Tea Cozy (a new pattern & preliminary photos)

Knitting is Fun...Right?

I meet many knitters--usually, though not limited to, advanced beginners--who become frantic about real or imagined mistakes. They rush up, breathless and anxious, saying they "don't know how to fix it," they "don't know how to 'go back'," or even that they "think it's ruined" ("it" being their projects).

More often than not, the real problem knitters face is their agitation, which prevents them from really seeing what's going on and how best to address it. Honestly. Once a knitter progresses past the ultra-beginner stage, he or she possesses the power to diagnose and fix 90 percent (or more) of mistakes.

Prescriptions for fixing an error include:

• Un-knitting one stitch at a time (AKA: "tinking"--tink is knit spelled backwards)
• Ripping back many rows (AKA: "frogging"--because "rip it" sounds like a frog: ribbit, ribbit...), then putting the stitches back on the needles without twisting them
• Looking for suggestions and knit-fixes on the Internet
  
• Finishing the project and then go back with yarn and tapestry needle to close a hole or gap
• Learning to "be Zen" about mistakes, to renounce perfectionism and live with small errors
  

My very first--and imperfect--wheel-spun skein (circa 2006-07)

Whatever the fix, it's important to slow down. Take a deep breath. And another and another, until you calm down. Maybe put your project down for a day or two and come back to it.

Do what you need to do to alleviate anxiety. For only then will you be able to: (a) really see the alleged "problem" and (b) identify how you want to fix it (or not).

And that's my tip -- one of the best I have to offer: Relax. Breathe. Knitting is fun!

Knitting is Fun...Right?

Toesicles: A new (unisex) sock pattern!

Luxurious. Toasty. Sexy. Well, that last one depends on your point of view.

But, hey! These socks are perfect for holiday gifts... They knit up quickly, look impressive, and fit frosty feet of the female and male varieties!

And I'll bet, if you ask my husband, he'll say warm toes are sexy any day of the year. (Since the alternative tends to be my warming them on him.)

The pattern is new -- I just posted it on Ravelry today, so pop on over and pick up a PDF of your very own. You know you want to...



Not a Ravelry member? That's OK -- you can use PayPal. Drop me a line at KnitSix@gmail.com, send your $5, and I'll gladly send you a PDF.

Toesicles: A new (unisex) sock pattern!

What's your pleasure? - Studying the Top 10 knitting patterns

Classic Elite Yarns Alpaca Sox

Mulling over new design ideas, I've lately found myself thinking about existing knitting patterns: Socks, mittens & gloves, scarves & shawls, sweaters, hats... I'm also wondering what knitters (and crocheters) want more of, and what gives them that "been there, done that" feeling.

These days, one can hardly think about knitting patterns without heading straight for Ravelry. After all, it's ubiquitous, a gathering place for patterns new and old. And its pattern database is so wonderfully "searchable".

So I searched.

Harrisville Designs' New England Shetland

I searched all knitting patterns in Ravelry's database (Aug. 20, 2009), filtering out those rated less than four stars (out of five). The results? Telling, though not surprising. The following patterns comprise the Top 10:

1. Fetching (fingerless gloves by Cheryl Niamath)
2. Monkey (socks by Cookie A.)
3. Baby Surprise Jacket (by Elizabeth Zimmermann, available from Schoolhouse Press)
4. Calorimetry (headband/ear warmer by Kathryn Schoendorf)
5. Clapotis (shawl/scarf by Kate Gilbert)
6. February Lady Sweater (by Pamela Wynne, based on Elizabeth Zimmermann’s classic “Baby Sweater on Two Needles,” from Knitter’s Almanac)
7. Saartje's Bootees (baby bootees by Saartje de Bruijn)
8. Noro Striped Scarf (not designed by Jared Flood; he claims only to have written up how he made his lovely 1 x 1 ribbed scarf)
9. Ballband Dishcloth (from ball bands on Pigsah Yarn & Dyeing Co.'s "Peaches & Creme" yarn)
10. Swallowtail Shawl (links to page with PDF download of this beautiful design by Evelyn Clark)

Surprised? I'll admit I was, a bit...

Zephyr Laceweight Wool-Silk

I guess I was expecting a more homogenous result, one showing mostly socks and fingerless gloves, for example. Perhaps with a few lacy knits and sweaters mixed in. Mais, non! What a lovely surprise!

For the Top 10 list includes an intriguing blend of patterns for adults and babies, laces and solids, new and old designs. Most are relatively simple, straightforward knits, proving that a design doesn't have to be complicated to be chic.

And I'm thrilled to see that these are primarily classic designs -- devoid of tricks and fads -- that will last a lifetime (with good care and a wise yarn choice, of course). By classic, I don't mean to exclude the newer designs, like Clapotis, Monkey, or Fetching. Rather, these are new interpretations of generations-old patterns, garments worn by our ancestors to stay warm in cold, drafty houses.

These new interpretations, though, were created with a nod to history -- useful, yet romantic, fingerless gloves, and a scarf inspired by those famously flaunted by Parisian women, for example.

Peach Blossom Scarf ... on a non-Parisian woman.

Luxury must be comfortable, otherwise it is not luxury. -- Coco Chanel

Where is all of this leading? Well, I'm not entirely sure. For me, it's reassuring to see proof that classic designs are ever in vogue, as they're what I enjoy wearing and designing. How this information will affect my upcoming creations, well, we'll have to see...

But I want to know: How about you?
What do you enjoy knitting, wearing, giving, and receiving as gifts?
What turns your head when you see someone wearing a hand-knit on the street?
What would you like more of in knitting patterns?
What designs/techniques are you tired of?

Something to think about... Feel free to PM me on Ravelry or just leave a comment here with your answers. Because while I know how I feel -- I'd love to know more about you!

What's your pleasure? - Studying the Top 10 knitting patterns

Knit It Together: A Book Review

I'd like to take a few moments to tell you about a lovely new book: Knit it Together: Patterns and Inspiration for Knitting Circles, by Suzyn Jackson.

This book could not have entered my life at a more opportune time. During the past several weeks, my life was more chaotic than usual -- not the typical crazy-day chaos, but that dire, nerve-wracking, anxiety-producing stuff. You probably know what I mean.

In the midst of this nonsense, however, a little whisper of sanity beckoned: "Pick up your needles and knit for a while...You'll feel better..." You know, when I finally sat down for a few hours with my EZ Pi Shawl, I did feel better; and that good, calm mood lasted the rest of the day.

Thus, I was reminded (again) how important my knitting is to me, what it brings to my life: the peacefulness, the self-expression, the community, the meditative, healing, joyous, artistic, blissful THING that is knitting (and crochet, and quilting, embroidery, or whatever floats your boat).

That feeling--and, specifically, sharing it with others--is what Knit It Together is about.

New Skills Blanket, the perfect group project, designed by Suzyn Jackson

The Concept
Knit It Together, according to Jackson, is "an anthology of essays, stories, tips, and knitting patterns, celebrating the awesomeness of knitting in groups." Yet, when you just can't break away from home or work to hang out with your fiber-cronies, the companionship this lovely book offers can feel comforting as a knitting circle.

Jackson writes:

I set out to assemble this book using the widest possible definition of a knitting circle: more than one knitter, period. I also started with an idea for collaborative knitting projects, projects specifically designed to be knit by a group. Like any good knitting circle, I welcomed a wide range of people.

I like to think of the result as my knitting circle: a collection of writers and designers who have thought deeply about how a community of knitters can bridge divides, spread goodwill, and strengthen us all.

Created specially for knitters involved in (or who want to start) a knitting group, who enjoy knitting for charity, or who simply enjoy knitting straightforward patterns for themselves and others, Knit It Together, like a good restaurant menu, includes something for just about everyone.

The Projects
Want projects? You'll find some very cute ideas in Knit It Together. Here are some of my favorites...

Harlequin Purse, designed by Suzyn Jackson

Learning new skills is an integral part of Knit It Together. Jackson begins with a fun little handbag (or knitting bag!) designed to offer a gentle challenge to those who haven't yet tried knitting Entrelac (an intriguing method of building an object by picking up stitches to work rows of little squares--or rectangles, or diamonds...).

What do you need to take on a challenge? Some people need a supportive environment with plenty of help along the way, while others thrive on competition. If several people take on this entrelac purse, you’ll get plenty of both types of encouragement. It’s a purse party!

Myself, I'm thinking of knitting this little bag out of Noro Kuryeon, reminiscent of the beloved Lady Eleanor Shawl from Scarf Style: Innovative to Traditional, 31 Inspirational Styles to Knit and Crochet (Style series). With a fun lining incorporating a few pockets, it would make a wonderful project bag. Or, if I added a stronger strap, it might even hold all the "stuff" I carry with me on an average day.

Double Knit Catnip Pillows, designed by Kristin Spurkland

Kristin Spurkland's pattern for these sweet little catnip sachets (AKA: objects that must be bitten, licked, and torn apart with tooth and claw) are lovely compensation for the feline muses who inspire so many knitters. In her introduction to the project, Jackson writes:

Double knitting looks like flat knitting and is just as easy, but when you remove the knitting needles from the work, the knitting magically opens into a little knitted bag! Fill with batting and some catnip (or potpourri if the pillow is for people), add a French knot, graft the pillow closed, and you’re done.

Couldn't be easier, right? And the results are charming. No kitty muse at your house? Why not make a few, fill them with lavender or dried roses, and wrap them up as bridal shower favors? Already, ideas are sparking and I'm feeling inspired to play with yarn.

Stripes and Spots Toy, designed by Suzyn Jackson

Speaking of play, check out this absolutely adorable baby toy--I love it! But behind its oh-so-cute exterior lurks intelligence and childhood development research. According to Jackson...

Newborn babies can’t see very well. Not only do they need to learn to use the muscles that control their eye movements and focus, but they also have to build the connections in their brain that help them understand what they are seeing. Visual stimulation is crucial for this process, and high-contrast patterns provide the strongest stimulation. This is the idea behind this little toy. That, and the fact that I love a gender-neutral baby gift that isn’t green or yellow!...This toy has a different stimulating black-and-white pattern on each side.

But Wait--There's More (A Lot More!)
An experienced knitter and writer, Jackson peppered her ultra-readable book with first-person narratives about the experience of living, learning, and creating in the midst of other knitters. Additionally, Knit It Together features several projects that would make ideal donations to charitable organizations, and includes a list of charities that accept knitted items.

From the first chapter, which offers historical background on social knitting and knitting circles, to an essay about attending the Elizabeth Zimmermann/Meg Swansen Knitting Camp, this book gives us a glimpse into the lives and passions of devoted knitters.

If you're a bit of an activist, you'll appreciate the focus on groups that aim to fight poverty with art or to use knitting as a political statement. And, in my car-and-racing-loving family, the knitted Ferari was a big hit--even my husband and father-in-law got a kick out of that one...Now, I just have to figure out how to talk them out of asking me to make one for them!

Baby Uey Diaper [or knitting] Bag, designed by Vyvyan Neel

Wrapping everything up, the sixth and final chapter offers invaluable advice about finishing techniques like blocking and seaming. Jackson urges knitters to use this book to learn new techniques together, in a setting where group members can support each other, help each other, and cheer each other on. In fact, if your knitting group made every project in Knit It Together, you'd be expert knitters by the time you reached the end of the book.

For those of us who, when we aren't knitting, love reading about knitting, this book is a delight, offering many hours of happy page-flipping. And if you're searching for the perfect group project -- or something new to make on your own -- you'll probably find it here. In fact, this book may be the ultimate bedtime reading for yarn junkies, promising peaceful dreams of projects and possibilities.

Vital Stats
Knit it Together: Patterns and Inspiration for Knitting Circles
Suzyn Jackson, editor
Paperback: 144 pgs (10.9 x 8.4 x 0.5 ins; 1.3 lbs)
Publisher: Voyageur Press (June 8, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0760330735

Here's a link to Knit It Together on Ravelry, where you can peruse the patterns.

And here's a link to Knit it Together on Amazon, for those unable to get to an LYS to pick up their own copy of Suzyn Jackson's very-enjoyable book.

Knit It Together: A Book Review

When the Fancy Strikes...

The other day I walked into my studio, coffee in hand, and suddenly realized I felt like knitting something small. Something quick. Something that might do good for a little one on the other side of the world. In other words, something for the Afghans for Afghans (current) campaign for kids.

So I grabbed some discontinued, worsted-weight alpaca/wool yarn that's been stuffed in the bottom of my stash for too long, and cast on some little socks. Working two at a time on one circular needle really made them fly.

In one day, they were done. And the whole time I made them, I kept thinking of the cute little toes that, someday, might wiggle in these socks, all nice and toasty.

The next day I cast on for a little kid's hat (to keep the other end warm). I'll make it big enough to grow with him or her, and keep the design unisex so it can easily be handed down from sister to brother (or vice versa).

Interested in helping out? Check out the Afghans for Afghans Web site for more information.


Otherwise, I've been cranking out a few washcloths/dishcloths during the evenings. After many loads of dishes in the Knit*Six Test Kitchen (ha!), I can honestly say I like the crocheted variety better. The texture is thick, strong, and scrubby.

Don't get me wrong: Knitted cloths are fine, too! And they often look nicer than the crocheted cloths -- at least the ones I turn out. To each his own, as they say.

Either way, though, there is something satisfying about working with soft, thick, bright cotton yarn (Peaches & Creme or Sugar & Cream), working mindlessly while you watch a favorite show (Entourage, anyone? It's my current favorite), and finishing a project in a few hours.

And then, you toss this brightly-colored, hand-knit or crocheted beauty into a sink of dirty dishes and soap it, scrub with it, wring it, throw it in the washer and dryer -- just use and abuse it. Because that's how it wants to be treated.

Yep, a rare occasion indeed. And, I think, a refreshing change from handling our usual delicate, gem-like, hand-knit lace shawls/scarves, socks, and sweaters.

Feels good, doesn't it?

When the Fancy Strikes...

Take it Easy

Now and then you just need some mindless knitting. A project you don't have to think about at all. One that you don't have to rush to finish, because it's for you.

I find this to be especially true during mid-winter and mid-summer, when you're often "trapped" in one place because you're traveling, or because it's freakin' freezing or bloody boiling outside.

Enter the humble sock. This isn't a fabulous look-at-me lace sock. It's not a startling crazy-colored sock. It's modest, yet warm. Comfortable, like your favorite jeans. And oh-so-easy on a tired brain...

Yarn: Shalimar Yarns Zoe Sock; needles from KnitPicks

The stitch pattern is a double-garter rib (you'll find it in most stitch dictionaries and in the fun Blueberry Waffle pattern). It's stretchy and allows some air to be trapped in the little "pockets," keeping your feet nice and toasty.

This sock has no secrets. It's a plain old cast-on-64-stitches-and-knit pattern, allowing your hands to fall into the rhythm and your mind to wander. No need to urge yourself to relax, to focus, to hurry, to do anything. No need. Just hang out with your knitting. Just take it, as The Eagles advised, easy.

Why not grab a skein and give it a try -- use plain old stockinette stitch or K2 P2 ribbing, if you want. All I'm saying is, give yourself permission to cast on something easy once in a while. Like now. Go with it. See where it takes you.

Take it Easy

Mittens for Knittin' (Free Pattern!)

About a week ago, I found myself with some knitting time on a Saturday morning. As always, plenty of unfinished projects lurked about the house. But that day, they didn't tempt me much. I wanted to knit mittens.

During the previous week, Afghans for Afghans sent out an e-mail update asking for mittens, ASAP. So I gave myself permission to cast on yet another new project and went stash diving.

When I surfaced, I had in hand a skein of heathery-raspberry Peace Fleece (appropriate, no?) and another of Knit Picks Telemark (in green, which, according to A4A, is "the beloved color of Islam"). I grabbed some DPNs and tuned the radio to hear two of my favorite shows: Car Talk and Wait Wait...Don't Tell Me! The sun was shining, the heater was blurbing and glugging (it's an old house), and I was happy.

Off I went, knitting without much thought to the hows and whys of mittens. They're pretty simple, after all...Nothing more than a cuff, a simple gusset, and a toe-like tip. If you've ever knit socks, you can knit up a pair of mittens, no problem!

Once they'd been blocked and had dried through (with a bit of assistance from my air purifier), I packed them up and shipped them off to San Francisco, where Afghans for Afghans was tallying up an impressive mountain of mitts. In about three weeks, they received more than 1,000 pairs!

In my enthusiastic state, however, I'd failed to take a photo of the finished mitts! So, until I make another pair, I've photographed my sketch for you (a reasonable facsimile, I think). Together with the notes I jotted down after finishing the second mitten, I managed to create a pattern I call "Knittin' Mittens!" and I'm posting it here, free, for your knitting pleasure. Happy stitching!

Knittin' Mittens

• Yarn: Two colors (approx. 150 yds main color [MC] and 20 yds contrasting color [CC]) of Peace Fleece or other worsted/heavy worsted-weight yarn (I used Peace Fleece for the MC, and double-stranded KnitPicks Telemark for the CC)
• Needles: Set of five US#6 DPNs (or circular needle, if you prefer)
• Notions: scrap yarn, tapestry needle, scissors, stitch markers
• Size: Child's Medium (but very easily customized by adding length to hand/thumb)
  
• Gauge: 4.5 sts per inch in st st

Cuff
CO 32 sts with MC and join to work in round; place marker (PM) to mark beginning of round.

Work two rnds K2P2 rib.
Join CC and work K2P2 rib for four rnds, carrying MC up side.
Break CC and continue with MC for ten more rnds.

Start Thumb
Rnd 1: K to end.
Rnd 2: K7, PM, M1R, K1, M1L, PM, K to beg of rnd.

Alternate these two rnds until you have 11 thumb sts between markers.
Knit around, placing thumb sts on scrap yarn as you go.

Next rnd: K6, work RT* on two sts immediately above thumb opening, K to end.

K three rnds.
Join CC and K six rnds, carrying MC along inside edge as you work.
Break CC and pick up MC.
K three rnds.

Decrease @ Fingertips
Rnd 1: [K6, K2tog] four times (28 sts).
Rnd 2: K to end.
Rnd 3: [K5, K2tog] four times (24 sts).
Rnd 4: K to end.
Rnd 5: [K4, K2tog] four times (20 sts).
Rnd 6: K to end.
Rnd 7: [K3, K2tog] four times (16 sts).
Rnd 8: [K2, K2tog] four times (12 sts).
Rnd 9: [K1, K2tog] four times (8 sts).

Break yarn leaving at least 8" tail. Thread yarn on tapestry needle and draw through rem 8 sts two times, pulling tightly to close hole. Insert needle into center of hole and draw yarn through to inside. Weave in yarn end on inside of glove.

Here's a little intra-pattern cuteness just for you!

Make Thumbs
Place sts from scrap yarn AND two new sts directly above thumb opening and one new st on either side (between thumb and hand) on 3 DPNs [15 sts].

Divide these sts as follows:
N1: first 5 sts from scrap yarn
N2: next 5 sts from scrap yarn
N3: last st from scrap yarn and the 4 new sts picked up where thumb meets hand.

1) K one rnd.
2) Next rnd, K to N3; on N3, K2 tog, K3, K2tog (by knitting last st on N3 with first st on N1) [13 sts].
3) K one rnd.
4) K2tog, K to N3, K2 tog, K to end [11 sts].

Work even in st st for 11 rnds or desired length.
Next rnd: [K1, K2tog] around.

Break yarn and, using tapestry needle, draw through rem sts twice. Draw hole closed tightly, then thread yarn through to inside of thumb.

Finishing
Turn mitten inside out and weave in ends.

Block by soaking in lukewarm water with a bit of cleanser. Rinse gently unless you used a rinse-free wool wash. Be careful not to agitate the mittens as you wash and rinse them or they'll felt and shrink (unless you used superwash wool).

If yarn color bleeds, soak in lukewarm water with a bit of white vinegar to help set dye. Blot dry with towel, lay flat, pat into shape as desired, and allow to dry thoroughly before wearing.

***

Just one request: If you use this pattern, please consider making a pair for the charity of your choice. And, as always, do let me know if you spot anything that needs clarification.

Enjoy!

* To work RT: Insert tip of right needle into next two sts on left needle and K2tog without letting either st drop off; insert right needle into first st on left needle and K this st again; drop both sts off needle.

Mittens for Knittin' (Free Pattern!)

Hannah Six Designs Six Shalimar Yarns Exclusives

Clover Honey Shawlette by Hannah Six

Over the past couple of months, I've designed six patterns for Shalimar Yarns. It's been a whirlwind of creating, swatching, ripping out, revising, writing patterns, and having them test knitted. In other words: It's been a blast!

In total, I did six designs for Shalimar Yarns, inspired by their delicious colors, by the scrumptious base yarns, and by Kristi, who owns both Shalimar and Eleganza Yarns, a Frederick, Md.-based store (which is well worth a side trip if you're in the area!).

One of the designs, the Clover Honey Shawlette, was particularly popular, with 20 copies sold in just a few days! Clover Honey is knit from just one skein of Shalimar's Zoe Sock (each skein has an ultra-generous 450 yard put-up!) on US #5 needles.

With a bit of shaping to ensure it hugs your shoulders and a fun beaded cast off, it's both practical and unique. What an amazing (and affordable!) holiday gift this would make! If you're interested in buying the yarn and pattern, just visit the Shalimar Yarns Web site or contact Kristi at Eleganza Yarns.

Swatching for the Shenandoah Capelet

In the coming days, I will post more info about my other patterns, which include:

• The Rotunda Baby Blanket, a Rococco-inspired confection in Honey Worsted, with an intruiguing pattern ever-increasing cables...
• The Shenandoah Capelet, knit in Missy Bulky, with soft and lofty braided cables and unique twisted-I-cord button loops...
• The Freesia Socks, inspired by the glorious Iris colorway and my memories of a freesia-filled garden at my Northern California high school...

I've even created a special pattern, named Schuylkill Punch (in honor of Philadelphia's World Series Championship), for the Shalimar Yarns sock club! So stay tuned for more photos, more pattern information, and more about Shalimar's wonderful yarns and colorways...

And meanwhile? Happy Knitting (of course)!

Hannah Six Designs Six Shalimar Yarns Exclusives

Yarns from Stitches East!

As promised: Fun stuff about the yarn I brought home from Stitches East...

COTTAGE CRAFT

Cottage Craft 2-ply Wool in Spruce Green (Aran weight/272 yd skein)

Cottage Craft, purveyors (what a fun word!) of exclusive knitting yarns, handknit wool sweaters, handwoven tweed coats, boasts a rich history. Founded in 1915, the company is located in St. Andrews-by-the-Sea, in New Brunswick, Canada.

One of my last stops before leaving Stitches--they were located along the far wall, in a booth lined with a dizzyingly colorful display of utter sheepy bliss. In fact, my excitement about Cottage Craft yarns literally made me forget my oh-so-tired feet!

One note before I continue--especially to those seeking the ultra-buttery-soft experience modern knitters seem to crave: This is WOOL. It has "tooth," and feels scrunchy and real when you squeeze it. I happen to adore that feeling. How it behaves when washed and blocked will be interesting indeed, so I'll be sure to keep you posted as I swatch and play.

Cottage Craft 2-ply Wool in Plum (Aran weight/272 yd skein)

My two skeins of two-ply wool can hardly begin to represent the company's mouth-watering colors. This tempting palette, according to the Cottage Craft Web site:

"...reflect(s) the beauty of the landscapes and seascapes surrounding our seaside town. Many of our shades were created by Miss Grace Helen Mowat, a forward thinking lady who began the business in 1915. Each shade reflects rich heather tones, which blend beautifully."

I chose the two-ply wool (with its generous 272-yard put-up) for swatching, playing, designing, and/or knitting some holiday gifts. But Cottage Craft also offers a single-ply, lighter weight wool. With plenty of energy, the single ply is hardly a "dead," over-blocked yarn. It knits up into pretty lace on larger needles, and would make a warm and comforting wrap for the colder months ahead.

Honestly, if you can't trust Canadians to bring you lovely wool and woollen products, who can you trust? Just joking. But it does get cold there! And this Canadian company specializes in the most texturally tantalizing, fabulously woolly, inspiration-inducing yarns I've encountered in a long time. Please, if you enjoy real wool, do yourself a huge favor and buy some. Actually, it's such a great value and amazing product, go ahead and buy A LOT!

***

MAPLE CREEK FARM

Maple Creek Farm Fine Wool Merino (Worsted weight/200 yd skein)

Discovering Maple Creek Farm yarns was another unexpected treat. The fibers and colorways are dangerously, pocket-emptyingly beautiful. It was hard to leave with only one skein, but the skein I did buy is really lovely.

Spun at a mill in Taos, NM, of fleece from Maple Creek's own sheep, this is a soft, spongy Merino with a delightfully quirky texture. It reminds me of handspun yarn, round and elastic, begging to be knitted or crocheted into something special.

Maple Creek Farm started in 2002, with "yarn from our own Merino sheep, a couple of pots, a few burners and a dream," according to the company's Web site. Now, just six years down the road, Maple Creek boasts 25 hand-dyed yarns, eight of which are also available online: three weights of silk/Merino blend; four sock yarns; and one Merino/Mohair blend.

Clearly, this small company is based on a grand love affair of color, fiber, and texture. I can pretty much guarantee that you won't be disappointed with their products.

***

One last note: If you do try yarn from either of these companies, do let me know what you think of them...Comparing yarn experiences is half the fun of knitting--to me, at least.

Yarns from Stitches East!

Cat's Eye

This is my brain...

Well, actually, this is more like my brain...

And this is my brain on kitten...

Remember: When in doubt, play with fiber.

***

For anyone wondering how Katja and Charley get along,
here's some feline body language for you...

Don't be fooled. This is probably less innocent than it appears.

A cat's eyes are windows enabling us to see into another world.

- Irish proverb


Wishing you all a peaceful Tuesday!

Cat's Eye

More Coming Attractions: New Pattern Sneak Peeks

Coral Reef Cuff

I know. One of these days I need to actually transfer my patterns from notes to nice, clean PDF files--complete with photos and helpful how-tos. Until then, though, I think its fair to offer you a sneak peek of a few things I've been working on...

Barn-Door Socks

First, the Barn-Door Socks, knitted in Noro Kureyon Sock on US#1 needles. I love the way the subtle lace pattern looks in the rugged, slubby Noro yarn. I also love the woolly feel of the yarn when I knit with it...Is it just me, or does it leave a soft lanolin-type feel on your fingers?

The colors are simply beautiful. I've never spent a summer on the shores of Maine, but these colors evoke what I imagine it would be like: a silvery-brownish tone, like weathered-wood shingles; pale muted purple, like the twilight sky and the mist that rises over the ocean; aqua and turquoise, with flecks of white, like clear waves crashing on jagged rocks.

A surprise is in store for the heel and toe shaping--they'll be fun to make! The fit is great, the yarn isn't rough on your feet (despite the slightly scratchy feel as you knit it), and the colors and quiet stitch pattern could make for a unisex sock--depending on tastes, of course.


Next is a currently-nameless tea cozy. I knitted this swatch in Peace Fleece worsted-weight, a wool and mohair yarn with a decidedly sheepy feel. I absolutely adore this yarn and am entranced by the Peace Fleece story.

Tea cozies have enjoyed a renaissance during the past couple of years, and it's easy to see why...Sure, we enjoy our coffee--really enjoy it!--in the U.S. But most people I know also enjoy a cozy cup of tea from time to time.

In fact, during the colder months, when the air seems to crackle and snap and make the inside of your nose burn, knitters and crocheters dream of settling in on a deep, cushiony sofa with a hot cuppa and their current project (fireplace optional). For non-needleworkers, the scenario is the same, but usually includes a much-beloved book instead of a scarf-, sweater-, or sock-in-progress.

Either way, once you settle in on the sofa, the last thing you want to do is get up for more hot tea every half hour. Thus, the tea cozy. This pattern will be an easy, quick knit, with an eclectic twist, making it a great idea for Christmas and other holiday gifts.

Freesia Socks

Finally, more information about this sweet pair of socks knitted in Shalimar Sock Yarn. Shalimar is hand-dyed by Kristi, who owns Eleganza Yarns in Frederick. This pattern's name, "Freesia," was inspired by the azure blues and creamy yellows in the ultra-soft merino yarn.

In my sophomore year we moved to Marin County, and I had to change to a new high school (Tamalpais H.S., in Mill Valley, CA). Tam has a gorgeous campus, built on a hill, with lots of grass and trees. One building encompassed a courtyard, with four tree-planters surrounded by a sort of colonade.

Beneath the trees, the planters were filled with Freesias. When the sun shone down mid-day, the entire courtyard would be thick as honey with their scent. Though I didn't know what the flowers' name at the time, I fell in love with their dizzying perfume. I can almost smell them when I look at this yarn…

The heel and toe in this pattern are a bit unusual, as I've been feeling a little bored with the ubiquitous short-row heel and wedge toe. The details will make for a feminine sock that looks pretty from every angle.

I know you'll just put them in shoes and probably hide them under a pair of blue jeans, but that's OK. Think of these socks like delicate Parisian underwear--even though no one else sees them, you'll know they're there!

More Coming Attractions: New Pattern Sneak Peeks