Companionable...

This last week had its ups and downs and in betweens - basically it was an average week in an average life. My husband and I had great conversations about issues that are important in our lives, we shared fun stories and the news of the day around the dinner table. All in all it was a very companionable week.

This week's book review should give us all that same feeling - A Knitter's Home Companion by: Michelle Edwards. This is little book is filled with lots of love, laughter and stories with which you can easily relate. Michelle breaks her chapters into subject groupings allowing you to pick and chose the order that you prefer to read the book. As I tend to be quite linear when it comes to reading (except that I am a firm believer in reading the last page -it really doesn't give away a story and it helps me imagine the scope of a story while I read) I have been reading beginning to end, but for the rest of the world that is not necessary to enjoy this book.

Along with all the stories, Michelle gives us all a great deal of patterns to make. Everything from baby blankets to socks, slippers, and Chicken Egg Warmers. Each one a lovely little item to make and share. These are all great projects to get started on for the forthcoming holiday season (yes - it's coming sooner than you think). As an added bonus, this collection brings us recipes as well as the patterns. Ideas that would work wonderfully for summer picnics and BBQ's as well everyday meals. Such scrumptious delights as - Genie's Killer Deviled Eggs, Jon's Roasted Root Vegetables and much more.

All in all, A Knitter's Home Companion allows one to sit back, enjoy, and feel a companionable kinship with the author and with our own personal knitting journey.

Published 2011 - Pictures by: Jen Gotch - Publisher: Stewart, Tabori & Chang, New York, USA.

Michelle's Website

Knit On, Read On....
The Knitty Scribe

I Ravelry, Do You????

I suppose that many people that read this may already know what Ravelry is, but for those that don't here's the skinny. If you do, maybe there will be something new for you as well.

Ravelry is a knitting/crocheting web based community. I like to think of it as a Facebook type social network for knitters and crocheters. You have a Notebook page of your own, you can add your projects, stash , library, send messages, list your blog and website, befriend lots of lovely people and join numerous groups with specific themes. For Me Ravelry is a place where I have met some very dear people, learned tons of things in regard to my art, rekindled my love for other art forms, promoted my own designs (did I mention that you can sell your own personal designs - great way to get started) and basically made myself a village. Joining Ravelry costs you nothing - you can be as involved or not as you like.

Here are five things I love best about Ravelry:
1) the people- I've made some great new friends and they all have interests like my own. Yeah!!!

2) Being able to sell my original designs and get feedback on those designs before going public, from people with a similar interest (see a theme there?). You can offer your designs for sale or for free, which is fab!!!

3) I love the pattern database. This one function has saved me days worth of time in finding a pattern or a pattern book. Searching the internet at large can be a daunting task.

4) Being a member of group with a special interest that I share. For example: The Annual Dishcloth Swap. This swap is loads of fun and has a small time commitment. So, if you're really busy and how many of us aren't, eh?? - you can enjoy the fun and be done quickly and move move to the next thing on your To Do List. I highly recommend checking this group out - the moderators are awesome women and know how to have fun!!! There are other groups as well, things I never thought would fit into a knitting/crocheting social network, such as - IKEA Fans. Now, to be completely honest - next to knitting there is nothing more I love more than a trip to IKEA - I mean you should just see my home! And right there on Ravelry, I found a huge group of others that love their art and IKEA just like I do - and my goodness can we get chatty. There are other types of groups as well, things like design support, groups dedicated to specific people (The Yarn Harlot - Alan Dart or Debbie Macomber). You name it there's a group for it or you can start one of your own.

5) The fifth thing I love about Ravelry is the people that I've met. Yes, I know that was #1 on the list, but I'm using a literary technique here of book-ending. Start and end with the most important thing. If it weren't for the people and the developers of Ravelry, all the stuff in the middle wouldn't exist. So, "the people" is worth a double hit on the list.

I highly encourage anyone that's never taken a look at Ravelry do so. If you are a knitter or a crocheter, you will find yourself and your art opened up to a world made just for you and I don't think you'll be disappointed.

I've never done this before, but I love this site so much and it has meant so much to the growth of my art, my skills, my business, my social connections that I am also going to share this blog thread on the Green Girl blog.
If you do Ravelry, tell us what you love best. If you don't yet Ravelry, go - go now - spend some time on yourself and have a blast. Ravelry

Knit On, Read On....
The Knitty Scribe. 

Playing With Blocks....

I've learned a lot about knitting a square this past year while a member of the Ravelry group Baker's Dozen. It's a simple idea, each month you knit/crochet a block for a specific person and each person ends up with 12 blocks to make a blanket. Each square must be 12x12 inches. So, the first lesson you learn is gauge so that you end up with a 12x12 square. Will this pattern give a little in the blocking, is the yarn forgiving, do I make everyone a different pattern or use the same one for each square???? These are all questions that you ask as you sit down to a relatively simple task.

One of the main stays in conversation on the chat board is ideas about new patterns. As many people in my group crocheted, I actually started to enjoy that art form again and did a few small crochet projects over the year. However, for those of us that knit, Nicky Epstein to the rescue with her newest book, Knitting Block by Block.

This is a lovely hardbound book with 150 different block patterns inside the covers. Now these are not just any blocks, lest we forget this book's author doesn't do anything halfway. These blocks are works of art. There is applique, cables, colorwork, entrelac, and if you like applied i-cord this book is your new best friend. Nicky has given us enough new ideas to mix and match to our hearts content and several patterns with which to use the blocks if you're stuck for a project. I like to think of this book as a stitchionary, except for blocks. Truly endless ideas await you.

Now, back to the Baker's Dozen group. Yesterday, I received my last square and low and behold, as if by magic, my dear group member, Jennifer had knit for me a block called Cathedral Windows - straight out of Nicky's book. It is a lovely shade of teal with multi-colored edging. Beautiful work, Jen - thanks! In the book this block is shown as part of a pattern for a lovely cropped vest. I think it would work perfectly in the Autumn with a long sleeved tee, some jeans and boots. Just a thought as to what the Knitty Scribe might be wearing in the coming season.

Well, Nicky has come through once again - many thanks. And to Jennifer, your hard work is going to make a lovely pillow to accent the rest of my blanket and will be properly used in my studio when I'm cuddling up on the chase to knit and read - many, many thanks!! And to all my Baker's Dozen group - it has been a pleasure working and getting to know you all. Have a lovely summer, thank you for all your work on my behalf and I hope to see you around in September when we start up once again. Peace and joy to you all....

Knit On, Read On....
The Knitty Scribe

The Ambassador of Crochet....

This weeks review is for a blog/website - The Ambassador of Crochet by: Kristine Mullen. I have known Kristine via a Ravelry group for almost a year. And although she is a crocheter extraordinaire, rather than a knitter, I count her as someone I am thrilled to know. I've always been determined to raise up any and all fiber arts - I crochet as well as knit, just not as much these days, as knitting is my true passion. However, crocheter's make some of the loveliest items I've ever seen and I feel that Kristine's blog/website represents her art form in a spectacular way.

The Ambassador herself is a fantastic designer in her own right. When you visit her site you'll find that she has several store fronts in which she sells her personal patterns. Her childrens hats are delightful and every little girl should have a few in their young fashion wardrobes. The models for Kristine's projects are gorgeous and show off the crocheted objects to their best effect. The secret is that they are all Kristine's own beautiful children. I haven't asked, but I'm guessing they work for treats, which Kristine is happy to supply.

Kristine has really made it her job to get the art form of crochet out to the masses. Kristine is also involved in sharing her talents with many charitable organizations. How she has the time for all she does is beyond me, but she is certainly a great role model for other artists.

So, here in the US it is Memorial Day Weekend - that typically means BBQ's with family and friends and a little time to ones self. When you have that extra few minutes, please go and check out Kristine's site and her blog. You'll enjoy every moment. http://www.ambassadorcrochet.com/p/crocheting-for-cause.html

Knit on, Read on....
The Knitty Scribe

Labels Not Allowed....

This particular blog posting has special meaning to me - you see for many years I was what society called a "Plus Sized Woman." I wore a size 18 and I had an incurable adrenal disease that kept me from having children and eventually lead to cancer four years ago. I've had the surgery and through medication and a better understanding of my disease I have lost close to 130 pounds in 5 years. Please do not clap, say hurrah or wish to pat me on the back. Congratulations are not required because there was nothing more I could have done to make myself smaller than I was until I found a physician that understood the disease that I had been born with. I was active, exercise 5 days a week, a good proper portion sized diet, but none of that made a difference except that it may have helped me from being larger than I was. Today, I am better, not cured, this disease is genetic and I am what they call the text book case. Literally, when they teach this disease, my case study is the one they use for how it affects females. I suppose that it makes me glad to know that my fight may lead to someone else having an easier time with this condition than I did. I still have to take four medications a day to maintain my health. It is of course worth every pill I take.

I have told you all this very personal information because I am tired of hearing the phrase, "Plus Sized." In the 21st century we still label and demean people because of their size. That is complete and total idiocy!!! Your size is your business and if you feel it necessary, the business of your physician. Your clothing should not make you feel bad about yourself. I mean when did a size 12-14 become Plus? Probably the same time designers made the size "00" or "XX-Small."  It is all nonsense. For goodness sake find a different way to make yourself feel good and stop labeling people through their clothing size.

Sadly enough I see the same labels being used in knitting patterns. I know it's the norm, but it's the norm that should be changed. I have had several lovely women tell me that they have never knitted themselves a sweater because they can't find a pattern to fit. It's somewhat true that knitting patterns are usually made for sizes not deemed "Plus." However, I have found a few books that I like for that arena. Although hideous labels are still used, the book I wish to review this week does more than talk about size, it discusses shape and fit and ways to flatter your best assets. Knitting Goes Large, by: Sharon Brant and several other designers is a book that shares 20 lovely patterns for those that wear sizes that extend beyond what you find in most pattern books. This book really dissects pattern making and fit, which allows the knitter a better understanding of why one person may wear a size 18 and another person of the same weight may wear a 22 - one person is probably taller and the other shorter so their figures measure differently. Weight doesn't really play into the equation. The patterns are clear and easy to follow and very of the moment for fashion. Some ideas are classic, some romantic, and some are just a little bit funky. A bit of something for everyone.

Whereas I think that the book title might be better if it were, "Knitting to Flatter Your Figure" the author does a nice job dispelling the idea of labels and gets more to the point of knitting lovely sweaters that fit well and are stylish. If you are looking for sweaters to knit for a friend or family member that fits this size range, this is a great book to have in your library.

So, stop labeling - let's expand our thinking and treat people with dignity and respect regardless of their size. We have so much more important things to ponder and fix in this world of ours, let's finally put a check in the box on clothing size discrimination.

Knit On, Read On,
The Knitty Scribe...

Knit Lit....

Seems that I am on a knit lit kick these past few weeks. You know, literature with knitting as one of the contributing themes. I love the books that actually give you the characters discussed patterns at the end of the book. More projects to mull over and put on my list - always a good thing and I figure these patterns are basically free as I bought the book for the story not expecting the patterns. Is that a good rationalization???

Anyway, this week I've read the two Sweetgum: Knit Lit Society books, by Beth Pattillo. The second novel is The Sweetgum Ladies Knit For Love.  I read them both on my Knidle when I got into bed. Reading really helps me fall asleep and since I'm dealing with the vagaries of my own personal global warming these days, a good book can really help. These books were a bit on the romantic and Peyton Place side of literature for me, but none the less I enjoyed them. Ms. Pattillo can write a good story with interesting characters, she can definitely keep a reader intrigued to the end.

I usually like Brit Lit far better than some of the offerings from my fellow US authors, but I've only been able to find two books that were worth a read that fit the Brit Lit and Knit prerequisites. If anyone has any recommendations please pass them on, I'll be glad to give them a read. Since the British offerings are a bit scarce, I certainly don't wish to pass up any good book regardless of it's origins and the Sweetgum series has not disappointed. The novels are set in Sweetgum, Tennessee, USA.  A small town that makes you want to live in a place where everyone knows your name or at least it makes me want to live in that type of place. With all the bad and indifferent situations that can come from small town living, there are tremendous positives as well and Ms. Pattillo brings those out.

In the first book, the knit lit society reads a classic book from a pre-determined book list each month and knits a project that would go well with the story. In the second book, the society does basically the same thing, but they have a specific stitch that must be used for each month. I am thinking that I would love a book group of this nature. Sharing my passion for literature and knitting all in one setting with my friends. Tres' cool!

So, if you are still planning your summer reads, I'd recommend giving the ladies of the Sweetgum: Knit Lit Society a try. I think you'll enjoy the story and perhaps find some inspiration for further projects or for your own reading group.

Knit On, Read On.....
The Knitty Scribe

The Lazy Blogger...

It has come to my attention that I may have come down with the "lazy blogger" syndrome. No blogging for over a week. On the surface I am guilty as charged, but under the surface troubled waters churn and send their waves to crash against the tender walls of my brain. All that to say, the life has been getting ready for the season by using DH and I for spring training. However, what doesn't kill us makes us stronger or so I've heard and I"m not dead yet. Hurrah!!! 

So, in today's installment you're getting a 2-fer. Two reviews instead of one. One book, one toy insert from Simply Knitting Magazine. Ready - set - read....

The book in question was actually published in 2008 and I've owned it since then, but at that time I was hip deep in thesis research and personal reading was the lifestyle section of the NY Times on Sunday with coffee and DH at our local Starbucks. Anyway, the author I"m sure is well known to many of you, Debbie Macomber and the book is Twenty Wishes. It is part of her Blossom Street series and tells a lovely story of love lost, and love found for a woman yearning for a child and for a child in desperate need of a loving mother. It is easy to relate to the characters and for me it was a story of Seattle. The story is set in that Great Northwestern city and as a 21 year member of that citizenry, I can tell you that the independent neighborhoods in Seattle are for the most part as charming as Blossom Street is described in the book. And as with all of Debbie's Blossom Street books, knitting prevails as  it's own character within the book. If nothing else you certainly get your creative juices flowing and are ready to grab your needles and knit, knit, knit. After you have read this story, you will want to know that Debbie has published A Twenty-First Wish in an anthology titled The Knitting Diaries by Debbie Macomber, Susan Mallery, and Christina Skye. This short story is a nice rounding off to the original book.

Review Two goes to non other than toy creator extraordinaire - Alan Dart. I only started knitting toys back before this past holiday season. I wanted to gift a hand knit bear to a sweet little girl of 2 years. You can see Bella Bear on my Ravelry Projects page. Anyway, every month when my copy of Simply Knitting arrives there is invariably a toy pattern from Mr. Dart or pictures from other knitters that have made his patterns. Heavenly mercy ,but they are beautiful. I thought toy knitting would be difficult, but it's not actually - you make a bunch of sections and then work them together. Not bad at all. Well, in the May 2011 issue of Simply Knitting (issue 80) there is a free extra insert by Alan Dart - a complete chess set, including the board and it is spectacular. Even if you don't play chess the pieces can easily be adapted for other toys, but if you are looking to make the ultimate gift for your favorite chess champ - you won't go wrong with this set. And let me just say that the only way to get the complete instructions is to purchase the magazine for that month. On Alan's website you can purchase older patterns ans let's just say I've stocked up!!! You can find Alan's website at -  http://www.alandart.co.uk/. Some patterns are free downloads and some are sold at a nominal cost.

So, there you go - two more items to add to your summer fun to do list. I'd love to see pictures of any items that were knit from these selections. The chess set is on my holiday gift giving list for this coming year.

Read on, Knit on...
The Knitty Scribe.

No Knit, Knitting.....

Well I think spring might actually be here as the trees are blooming and I'm sneezing and working my way through tissues like I work through wool, but I think it's having a hard time deciding whether or not to stay. It was 90 on Saturday, 70 on Sunday and 35 this morning. If it would stick to that nice 70 range, I'd be ever so thankful!

We've had the windows open for the last few days and this morning it was so difficult to get out of bed. When DH left at 6:30am I went and made tea and grabbed a book and slid down under all the lovely comforters and blankets on the bed. It was one of those dreamy mornings when you feel so content under the covers that you can't decide whether to go back to sleep or get your lazy behind out of bed. The "out of bed" part won out, but not until 7:45am. The self debate was almost to great to overcome.

Part of the difficulty was actually the book that I am currently reading or should I say finished reading, The Beach Street Knitting Society and Yarn Club, by Gil McNeil. It's not a pattern book or an instructional book, but it's based on a little knitting shop in England and is full of funny and eccentric characters. So, I thought it a great time to do a little blog about a great knitting book that can be put on your list of beach reads for this spring and summer.

The main character is Jo, she is a widow with a twist (I shan't say just what that is as you may not be someone that reads the last page of a book first or someone that wants to know the details before you've read them for yourself.) I'll just say that Jo needs a new beginning with her two little boys and they find it when she goes to take over the running of her Gran's yarn shop. I think you'll find a character that you relate to and if you're at all like me, you find that you wish you had two extra pairs of arms as the book makes you want to knit several items at once.

The book is fairly quick read, which in my opinion makes it perfect for taking in my bag wherever I go. If for some reason I can't knit, I have to read and why not read something about knitting be it fiction or non. I have now moved on to the sequel, Needles and Pearls and I can say that it's well worth the time as well. New adventures abound for all the major and minor players. Just like a good sequel should, Needles and Pearls keeps you wanting more.

What's in your spring/summer (hand knit of course) book bag????

Knit on, Read on......
The Knitty Scribe

Here Comes the Bride....

The month of April is here (I'm not sure how we got here so fast, but c'est la vie). This month is a huge month for birthdays in my family and among my friends, including my own. This means a full month of parties and celebrations, but this year there is also another special celebration to take place. The Royal wedding of HRH Prince William and Miss Catherine Middleton on April 29th, 2011. Now for some this is no big deal and they feel that we are all getting into a tither for no good reason. Fine, be that as it may, for some it is very special and for numerous reasons. It is special to me for reasons I cannot adequately put into words, but I will give just a few similarities of my own life.

My DH, Dave and I were married in the same year as Prince Charles and Princess Diana.

Although I have always been nicknamed, De (came from my grandfather and means the word to me) after Charles and Diana were engaged, people thought it cute to call me Lady Di. Ha ha, but as I said they thought it cute and did it because they cared about me. That makes it a very good thing.

At my wedding, our niece, Elisabeth was a baby and she is marrying this summer in the same year as William and Kate. The Royal wedding will be more opulent and celebrated throughout the world, but the wedding of Nick and Beth will be the grandest event for our family this year.

And to top things off, we have a little Kate in our own family. She may only be 2 and half, but she is our little princess in every way.

So, I, Aunt Diana, the one that believes in having stories and mementos to pass down through ages of our family will be making little keepsake William and Kate dolls for both my girls. I want the girls to know that although William and Kate are to be celebrated by the world, Beth and Kate are celebrated by me, their aunt. That I love and care for them as if they were my own daughters and that they have just as special a place in history as the handsome young man of noble birth and his lovely bride.

That all being said, this week's book pick is Knit Your Own Royal Wedding by: Fiona Goble. Fiona has given us the couple in both their engagement and wedding clothes. Kate's dress is a guess as of this moment, but I'm sure there will be updated patterns of the actual dress once we've all seen it with our own eyes. Along with the couple are members of the royal family, footman and for some reason the Queen's dogs. Now, I know the Queen loves her dogs, but I would rather have had the brides parents included instead. I do believe I can pull this off by making some spare dolls and knitting up a few of the alternate dresses in the back of the book. For those of you that really want to display your royal wedding, there is a cardboard balcony in a sleeve in the back of the book. All in all the book is well done and the there is a bit of the royal romance story documented at the beginning along with a few of the known wedding plans.

If you don't knit, this might be a nice gift for someone that does or as a memento for someone that collects royal memorabilia. The cover price of the book is 17.99US/21.00Canadian, but I got my copy via Amazon.com for 10.85US. I looked today and it's selling for 12.15US. I am wondering if this price will increase as the wedding draws near??? The publisher is Andrews McMeel at www.andrewsmcmeel.com.

So, whether you have a physical or emotional connection to the royals, it might be fun to knit up a couple of these dolls and some general clothes for your own little princess to play with.

Knit on, Read on,
The Knitty Scribe

It's Child's Play....

This week I find myself needing to share the attributes of a magazine with you all. Again, not just a magazine, but one that you will put into a binder and keep for a lifetime. Creative Knitting Magazine has published a fantastic special addition, Child's Play and as it sounds it is all about the kiddies. According to the cover it will be on news-stands until April 29th. What a lovely addition to your own Easter basket.

Every design is made especially for toddlers to early teens - boys and girls. If you have a girl in the family that is wild for American Girl dolls, there are two designs that have matching patterns for the girls and their dolls. They have already been slated for a September birthday and a holiday gift for my niece and her doll. The boys are not left out in any way, at least half the magazine are items for boys, plus there are several toys for the wee ones.

I was thrilled to find this as I find it difficult to find patterns for children in the 2-4 age group. Lots of patterns above and below that age range, but few for the basic toddler+ set. Auntie Knitty Scribe is going to be very busy this summer. 

Some children hate out growing their favorite clothes, so with this issue you can make every size so that your special little one can grow-up with his favorite jumper or her favorite dress. If you want to make each size a little different, just knit them in different colors. Are you looking for quick and easy gifts for family and friends that are expecting their own little ones, I think you'll even find a few items in this magazine that will make cherished heirloom items. 

And remember it's just child's play.....

Knit on, Read on....
The Knitty Scribe

Tradition....

I do not usually recommend magazines, as I find that I love them all. Even the glossy ones with all the ads. I'm kind of addicted to the slippery pages and colorful pictures. I tend to find something to love about them all, so I don't recommend them as surely no one else has this same problem. They are asking for solid information and on this front I have a hard time being objective. However, I may have found something worth crowing about. Knitting Traditions - is a bi-monthly magazine from Piece Work, which is published by Interweave Press. Now, you will have noticed that I said this was a magazine and I suppose that it fits that description in that there are ads and glossy pictures, but it also so much more.

In the current issue that appears on new stands until mid-May, there is article after article about knitting from all over the world. I mean it is more like a knitting history book than a magazine. Not only will you learn about the people of the Dales in Yorkshire and how fathers, mothers, and children all knitted as a form of income, you'll get patterns as well. The patterns might be socks, mittens or lace and they are spectacular. Because there is a story along with the pattern, you feel like you're there with the very people in the story. It's an immense feeling!

Knitting Traditions is not just a magazine that you read, file a few pattern pages and forget about. It's a publication that envelopes you in the roots and history of our art form. It's a publication that you'll save in a pretty binder and bring out time and time again. It is like having your own knitting encyclopedia at your fingertips. It is a joy to read and it is fascinating to read the history of those knitters that came before us and to practice the skills that they themselves used.

So, I highly recommend that you pick-up a copy of this "magazine" and find yourself a quiet spot to sit with a cuppa and take a trip back in knitting time.

Knit on, Read on...
The Knitty Scribe.

T-Tiny Treats.....

Back during the holidays, I finally started knitting toys. I must say it's a bit addicting and so far Alan Dart is my supplier. Lately, I've been wanting to knit some little food items for a few children that are at the age of playing tea party. Well, yesterday while I was out running errands, I ran into the yarn store. Of course I ran into the yarn store, isn't that a mandatory stop on any shopping trip??? I thought so....

Well, I found a little book that not only has cakes and fruits and veggies, but it has these sweet little sushi and dim sum. The book is Yummi 'Gurumi, by: Christen Haden & Mariasosa Sala - published 2010.

 I'm still thinking that I might want to knit a plate of these little sushi and use them as table decor. I have a great teak wood plate that I've had for years and these little treats would look amazing on it and really spice up the kitchen table. This little book has really made my imagination start running away with itself.

So, if you want something new to knit for the afternoon tea party with your favorite little one, this book is a great way to introduce them to different foods and cultures. They are quick and easy to make and once again, a great way to use up the leftovers in the stash.

Wouldn't these be sweet little gifts to give at a birthday party or a wedding or baby shower???

If tea parties are not your little ones thing, what about a play date a pretend diner - with the famous BLT????


Knit on, Read on.....
The Knitty Scribe.

Add a Little Bling...

Have you ever wondered about how to jazz up your knitting? Ever pondered the question: "What would make this piece really sing?"Surely you've had a moment of doubt when you were knitting because you thought the pattern was just too plain. I've had those moments - a lot! Then I found some yarn that had sparkle running through it and that was great because the bling was built right into the fiber. Hurrah!!! Then I started finding books that had beads knitted into the designs. WOWZER!!! I was hooked. I had loved beading little necklaces and bracelets with seed beads back in the 1960's. Now I had a new outlet for all kinds of beads - to be honest I was disappointed that I had not thought of this all on my own. I must have been under a brain fog at the time.

Beads can really make the mundane sparkle, they can add elegance to the country tweed, make a gift just a little more "awesome dude."  I love solid colored wool yarn, but in the end the finished project can still be a little flat - add some beads here and there and it's like making a picture on a Light Bright (another toy of the 60's) - the piece just comes alive. The pieces I design and sell always do better with a little bling. The chemo caps I make for cancer centers are always appreciated, but I get letters of thanks for the ones with beads. And in that situation, you can't ask for anything more than to know that you lifted someone's spirits at a really low point in their lives. And to think that little plastic or glass beads can bring that kind of pleasure, well it's a joy for me, it really, really is!!!

Beading is a great new skill to add to your repertoire. How nice to spice up your knitting and your enjoyment of the process on a cold winter's night. Then there is joy of teaching this skill to a friend or a child.  Let me just say that kids love adding beads (just the inexpensive pony beads that you purchase by the pound) to their projects. I find that it is a real confidence booster for them. It is a fun and friendly way to spend time with those we care about. Give it a try!

This week the book on the block is 25 Beaded Knits by: Debbie Abrahams - published in 2007. I checked and this book is still available through Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble online. If you have a Half Price Books in your area you might check there as well, as I found a copy for a friend there just recently. Debbie describes beads as transforming a plain fabric into something dazzling and she's so right. The projects in the book cover items for the home, the evening, daytime and kids (I'd say for pre-teens and teens especially.) There are a few lovely apparel items that would make smashing gifts and Mother's Day is just right around the corner (I know - how did that creep up on us so quickly. I mean this week it's March already - Ugh!)  

Beaded Slouch Socks (great for a dance -yoga - Pilates)

My favorite - the Beaded jacket. Lovely!

Let me just re-visit this idea of going to a Half Price Books - There are stores in 17 states and you can shop with them online. The closest HPB to my home is about an hour away, but I go there every time I'm in that city because I find tons of a great knitting, spinning, crocheting, looming and weaving books on their shelves. In this current economy I know that funds for knitting supplies and books probably take a bit of a hit and that's why HPB is such a deal. For example: When I bought my copy of 25 Beaded Knits several years ago, I paid about 25$ US, the copy I got my friend was 7.98US and it was a new book. That's less than half and it will make a great gift. I support any and all book stores, but I had to throw in a plug for HPB this weeks as I think they are hidden jewel especially when you find the budget a little tighter than usual.

OK - this week go and find yourself some beads and try knitting up a little something - see if you don't become addicted to this as a way to bling out your knitwear.

Knit on Read on.....
The Knitty Scribe.

It's All About the Blog - Living in a Wool Free World....

I cannot wear wool - I'm allergic.

Wool is too itchy - I don't like it.

Wool is too hot - I live in a warm climate.

These are just three reasons among many for why some folks just don't cotton to the likes of wool. There's suppose to be a play on words in that sentence, but I'm not sure it made it's way out - cotton vs wool - you're all brilliant you'll figure it out. It's late on Friday evening and I just blocked a Spring Lace neck warmer and I'm a bit out of it, nothing new, I know. Really though there are as many reasons that folks give for not liking wool as there are reasons for loving wool. And  that's alright!

This blog review is dedicated to those that just cannot get in the groove with the woolly fibers of the world. And it is also for those that want to expand their knowledge and repertoire of fiber choices. This weeks blog is Wool Free and Lovin' Knit (http://woolfreeandlovinknit.typepad.com/wool-free-and-lovin-knit/). The author of the blog is Joan. She and I met on Ravelry and I have enjoyed reading her blog for  several months now.
  
Joan is quite knowledgeable about non-woolly fibers, which makes her blog a great place to find inspiration when I sit down to knit for friends and family that prefer gifts made from cotton, acrylic, silk, etc... Sometimes I feel a little unsure of what non-wool fiber to use and I can always count on Joan to help pull me out of the fire.
As with many blogs, we find ourselves roaming through parts of Joan's life while we are subtly being taught the grandeur of living and knitting without wool. I highly suggest you take a peek at this blog - I think you'll be surprised at how lovely life can be without the help of the sheep on the hill. You can also find Joan on Ravelry under (organizedtoknit). Enjoy!!!

Knit on, Read on...
The Knitty Scribe

Wonder of Wonders...

Do any of you have piles upon piles of yarn that look like these examples???

I'm betting that most of you, like myself have tons of sock yarn. When I typed "sock yarn" into the search engine on my laptop, I got back 951,000 results. That's a lot of information about a lot of string. As the song lyrics go, "What is it good for..." Well, socks of course, but will we ever make as many pairs of socks as we have stashed sock yarn???   As the commercial says, "There must be another way." or in this case another project other than socks. Don't get me wrong, I love making socks - socks, socks, and more socks - warming the feet of the ones I love is one of my knitting missions in life, but trust me that the picture above only shows a tiny little cross-section of my sock yarn stash - I don't think I'll actually live to be 150 years old and that's about how long it would take to use just the sock yarn stash as it is now, and you know there's more to come. So, what to do - eh???

Enter stage left: Sock Yarn One Skein Wonders (2010) - edited by Judith Durant, the creator of the One Skein Wonder book series. Thank you, Judith!!! Inside the covers of this miracle book are 101 patterns to help me use up all that sock yarn and only 25 of the 266 pattern pages are for socks. Hurrah!!! All the rest cover a multitude of useful objects just waiting to be knitted. There are hats, mittens, gloves and cuffs - Oh My!! Scarves, Shawls, and shrugs to warm your neck and shoulders - Yippee! Small little wonders for the wee ones and clothes for their dolly's as well. Lastly - bags, purses, decorations and little wonders for the four legged family member. In plain simple English - there are projects galore and enough of them that you would never have to knit another sock for quite some time. Many people that tell me that they are afraid to make socks (don't be, it is not difficult and it is addicting,) but they love all the sock yarn options that jump into view when they go to the LYS. Here's your chance to indulge in those lovely little skeins of self-stripping goodness! Go for it!!!

I think you will really enjoy reading this book and enjoy making the projects inside even more. I highly recommend this book and indeed the One Skein series for every knitters library. The books are inspirational and have easy projects. The books are a wonderful addition to your gift knitting library as well.

Knit on, Read on....
The Knitty Scribe

To Be Gifted....

When asked recently why I knit rather than purchase pre-made gifts, my answer was pretty simple - the things I make contain my love. Sure any gift well thought out, even purchased is given with love, but my knitted gifts contain my actual love. Knitters and fiber artists will understand this completely and this week's book is about just that gifting and love. This is of course appropriate due to the upcoming Valentine's holiday. Have you knit your Valentine a gift yet? No, then this book has just the things you are looking for and you still have time to complete projects before the day of "Love" arrives. Knit on......

What do you think of when you decide to make a knitted gift???  Scarf? Hat? Socks? Gloves/Mittens? Sweater? Sure, we all do. They are the knitted items of choice as it were - the expected gifts - all good, all filled with hours of love and labor - all accepted with warmth and gratitude. Now, I ask -what about the unexpected??? Mags Kandis latest book, Gifted, published in 2010 by Interweave Press gives us the answer to that question. The blurb on the book cover says that Mags has been refining her knitting style for 18 years and I say, well done!!! Gifted, does have a section covering the wearable gifts, but where Mags knits above and  beyond is in the second section - non-wearable gifts. Items such as - tea cozies, ergonomic wrist rest for use when typing away at the computer, scissor sleeves, bracelets, felted hearts, netbook covers and dpn sleeves. All are small and easily completed with the odd bit of yarn leftover from larger projects. A very nice way to bust the overflowing stash. Mags also gives just a little bit more to her reader, a few of her favorite recipes, such as Mexican Hot Chocolate Mix (you'll love it - it would be a perfect addition to a Valentine's dinner at home.) And just in case you feel left out, Mags also crochets and has given a few crochet projects as well.

Mags instructs her reader not to worry about not having the skills to complete a project because all the projects are relatively small, there are instructions for everything and that makes these gifts a good way to expand and practice your skills. I love that she has thought about this, for we all know sometimes we jump into projects that are new to our skill levels and bit beyond what we can tackle in the first go-round.

So, break out the odd bits of bright colored wool and try a few felted hearts as gifts for the upcoming holiday. They work up super quick, are a great first time felting project, and can be used for many things (let your imagination run or go with some of the suggestions in the book.) If you want to give a useful gift to a fellow fiber artist, whip up some dpn sleeves (I think they would be great for crochet hooks as well.) And do not forget to make yourself some of the hot chocolate to sip while you work.What a lovely and loving way to spend an a cold winter's evening.

Happy Valentine's Day to you all....
Knit on, Read on......
The Knitty Scribe

It's All About the Blog - Itty Bitty Style....

Hello from the land of the great blizzard of 2011!!! Here in the greater Chicago land area we have 15-20 inches of snow and 4-5 foot snow drifts. Lovely!!!! (and I mean that) I love the snow and DH and I are safe at home and we have power. So, I can love snow and praise it's beauty and not worry. However, for those of you that may be stuck in this winter wonderland with no power, transport, etc... you're in my thoughts and I hope you are safe and sound a.s.a.p!!!

Moving on.... I apologize for not having a blog review in the last two weeks. Let's just chalk it up to life and start anew! I've actually wanted to do this review for a couple of weeks so in a way I'm right on time. When I think Susan Anderson, I think itty bitty. Itty bitty hats, toys, nursery's - and not only do I find all these itty bitty wonders in Susan's lovely books, I also find them on her blog. http://susanbanderson.blogspot.com/. Susan is by no means a newbie in the blogging world - she has an archive going back to 2006. Lots of inspiration in those posts - so you have a treasure trove to read through.

Susan has a wonderful way with the wee-ones in life and her talent is greatly appreciated by all of us that need a little help making things for the wee-one's little world. Then again, Susan is a mom of four little darlings so in my book she's an expert extraordinaire.

Not only does Susan have this blog in which she shares all of her knitty adventures, she also has this blog http://www.spudandchloe.com/blog/ which is her blog of free pattens. You heard me free patterns - run now - you'll love all the little jewels that Susan has been so generous as to share with us.

After you've made your way through Susan's work you can also follow her on Facebook. If you've already made some of her patterns from the itty bitty books, you'll love having these two additional references and if you're new to Susan's work, this is a great place to start and get to know this talented fellow knitter.

Knit on, Read on....
The Knitty Scribe

Looming....

Right before I decided to officially start this blog, I entered my name in a drawing to receive an advance copy of Red Hearts new booklet, Loom Knitting Made Easy and guess what???? I won a copy of my very own. Always so cool to win something, especially if it has to do with knitting of any kind. I actually picked-up my first loom in order to knit chemo caps a little faster. What I found was that many people that are afraid (for whatever reason) to knit in the traditional way, are eager to loom knit as it looks the same, is easy to do and for some reason holds much less terror for the beginner. I also found that many traditional knitters like myself, love looming just as much. How nice, there's a little bit of something for everyone. So, I have concluded that reviewing this little booklet hot off the presses will be of interest to many.

Loom Knitting Made Easy - Published 2010 - This was published late in 2010 and to be honest I'm not sure it's in the stores yet. I have not been able to get an answer. Be on lookout, I'm sure you'll start seeing it soon. The booklet covers six projects from beginner - intermediate skill levels. The projects cover home decor, lace, children and adult scarves and hats. I have to say that I am working on the lace shawl now. I have a vested interest in a lace shawl for a special wedding taking place in the summer and I'm going to see if I like this one as much as the one I'm knitting in the traditional way.

The first several pages of the booklet walk you through the basics of loom knitting - just as with traditional knitting it covers, cast ons, knits and purls, bind offs, flat vs round looming, different stitch patterns and finishing techniques. The instructional pictures are very clear and easy to follow. After the instructional section comes the projects and at the very end of the book there is a page on blocking, gauge and yarn choice, then a page with abbreviations and skill level information. For only 33 pages, the material is covered in a good amount of detail. The projects are fun and relevant for today's lifestyles.

In the end I will offer this, if you do not loom, this would be a great place to start. If you do loom, this a great reference and I think you'll enjoy working the patterns. If you want to get someone involved in a fiber craft - this booklet, a set of looms (can be purchased at most craft stores) and a couple skeins of yarn would make a wonderful gift.

Knit on, Read on....
The Knitty Scribe

Signatures...

What's your signature??? Everyone's is different for sure and each signature tells the world something about who you are. When I was a child, my father told me that when I started to write my name in cursive, it should be unique and different in order to make it harder for people to copy. I thought that cool at the time and now I know that truly my father was paranoid. Regardless, I took that advice and my signature is just three letters and a symbol. No one has ever tried to copy it, but someone did try to fire me once because they didn't like the way I signed my name. This woman was a very controlling individual that typically liked to re-make people in her own image. In the end,I kept my job and taught her a lesson about individual rights.

In the world of knitting or any form of art, the artist typically has a signature style, or color, or idea that is specific to them. And this week's artist/author has a signature style like none other. Today the Knitty Scribe is going to review a book by the well known author and knitwear designer, Nicky Epstein. Many of you may have Nicky's books already, but this weeks entrant is worth reviewing just in case you don't. Or maybe it will jog your mind and you'll pull the book out and have a go at another unique creation. It just so happened that a dear friend of mine asked me to help re-imagine the cover scarf of this book into a crocheted version (see the Green Girl Blog for that story.) So, here goes:

My re-imagined Yo-Yo Scarf - info on the Green Girl Blog.

Nicky Epstein's Signature Scarves: One thing I know for sure is that Nicky thinks outside the box and I believe that is one attribute that makes her a good designer. In this book, published in 2008 Nicky brings the knitting universe 33 spectacular scarves. Want to try your hand at felting a scarf, there's a couple to choose from. How about turning a cardigan pattern into a shawl scarf, Nicky's done that as well. Want to practice your Fair Isle before taking on that massive sweater, this book has a majestic offering (Majestic Fair Isle). And then there is the Yo-Yo scarf on the cover, the very scarf that I re-imagined in crocheted form. This book does not just throw some scarf patterns at you, I mean what would be the point of that. As someone that designs a lot of scarves myself, I know better that to try and pitch a six inch wide knitted piece of fabric without adding a little extra oomph to the idea. Nicky knows this even more. Her designs are for beginner to advanced, but there is nothing mundane about any of them. Each is truly a work of art and you can make that piece of art in your own image. As a special touch in the back of the book, Nicky shares ten of her favorite edges and trims. If you have her book Knitting on the Edge (a complete book of trims and edgings) then you'll understand why this is such a nice addition, if you don't know this book, you'll want to add it to your list for your next knitting book purchase. Nicky's edges and trims are fun, fascinating and down right fabulous!!! Back to scarves, Nicky does not leave anything for granted, she even spends four pages showing you different ways in which to tie a scarf. Now that's attention to detail.

In my very humble opinion, I think everyone should have this book in their knitting library. It's a great reference, helps you practice your skills, and in my case gave me so many new things to think about in regard to my own style, it was a real encouragement.

Enjoy the adventure to your own signature style
Knit on, Read on.....
The Knitty Scribe.

It's All About the Blog - The Yarnista......

What is an "ista?" Do you know? Well, the dictionary says that "ista" is a suffix for a noun and when added to the noun, it means that the person, place or thing is a follower or adept of the noun in question. For example, I bet you've heard of a Fashionista, if you like Mally cosmetics you may be a Mallynista. However, I'm laying my money on the fact that you are probably a Yarnista. A follower or adept of yarn. Very fancy little name, but it's a label I'm proud to wear and so is the owner of Three Irish Girls - creators of some of the most gorgeous yarn colorways that I've ever seen. Three Irish Girls was founded by a delightful woman named, Sharon who admits she did not want to grow-up and be a Yarnista at all. Check out the blog and the website and see how that all changed with just a few dye pots.

Yarnista is the name of the companies blog. It is educational, funny, personable, and just a plain old good read. The latest blog posting is a pictorial lesson on the virtues of blocking our lovely hand knits. Some posts take us through Sharon's general adventures, but each one has something special to say and something meaningful for us all to think about. After you've read the blog a bit, click over to the website and take a look at the yarn. The yarn, the yarn, oh the yarn!!!! I gush a bit about it, but it really is just smashing. If you're a color freak like me or should I say Colornista, I think you will enjoy what you see there.

Blog address: http://www.yarnista.com/
Web address: http://www.threeirishgirls.com/

If you are already aware of Three Irish Girls, then you'll understand why the Yarnista blog was chosen for this week's review. If you're new to Sharon and her company, go take a look and get lost in the fun.

Knit on, Read on....
The Knitty Scribe

Guided by Harmony....

Hello everyone, are you currently under a blanket of snow?? I've been watching the weather forecasts and it seems that most of the country is getting their share of a winter wonderland. It is suppose to snow here in our area tonight. Keeping my fingers crossed for a just a few inches. You see the more snow, the more knitting time becomes available and baby I can fill that time with the best! I know you can, too!

This week I want to touch on a book series that makes all the difference in my teaching, designing and dreaming. The Interweave Press - Harmony Guides. There are several books and booklets in this series and I have many. For this blog post, I'd like to review two of my personal favs - if you haven't seen them, head to a book store or library - the magic within their pages may change your knitting forever.


Both of these books are still being published - Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble and B&N.com all carry them for purchase and your local library may have some in their knitting selection.

1) Knit & Purl - Edited by: Erika Knight: originally published in 2007
This is a book of 250 stitches to knit and purl. It is a stitch dictionary that roams from the most basic to the very elaborate. The knits and purls are designed and intertwined into patterns that will inspire you to new heights, help you concur the creative block and perhaps even help you shrink the stash. Each page holds a lovely color photograph of the stitch pattern, the name of the patterns and easy to follow instructions. Finally, you will come across a hint here and there to help you in your knitting education. This is a great book to have in your arsenal  - I never leave on a long car trip without having my copy in the knitting bag.

2) Cables & Arans - Edited by Erika Knight: originally published in 2007
This book is similar in size and idea to Knit & Purl, but of course it is cables and arans - you caught that right? Of course you did it was right there in the title. This dictionary of stitches that twist and turn was a most welcome holiday gift just this past season from my dearest husband, Dave. Again, Erika Knight offers up 250 different patterns. I have this deep desire to make each and every one of these patterns into squares and make a huge blanket. Let's not lay odds on when that project may be completed, but it is certainly a tempting challenge.There is something about cables that make make my brain sizzle and pop with anticipation - I'm like a child saying, "Look what I did." when I complete a cable. It's like I've solved an ancient mystery. Ah..... Anyway, along with a photograph and written instructions, many of the patterns have charts as well. I know that many knitters love charts and so if you do, I think you'll find the charts well done and easy to follow. Personally, I loath charts. I know - I'm sorry - I cannot figure it out as I'm a very visual person, but I rather knit from written directions. Well, to each their own - knit on and use whatever pattern format you like - it's all good. Making cables is a great skill to have in your knitting bag of tricks, so I hope that you find this book helpful in your process.

I will discuss some of the other Harmony Guides in the future, but I do not want to be accused of leading you down a path of uncontrollable knitting. Or do I........Hmmm...

Later this week - look for the weekly Blog Review

Knit on, Read on....
The Knitty Scribe.

The Knitty Scribe Take One....

Welcome one and all  to the first official review from The Knitty Scribe. The purpose of this blog to to review written materials in regard to knitting. Not to judge, but to let you all know what's out there for knitters - you all can judge for yourself, but I guarantee that there is something for everyone - I mean it's a pretty big world and knitting is a pretty big part of that world (regardless of the crazy looks you get from people while you knit in line at the market,etc...)

The year 2010 was a real downer in many ways, but I actually did learn something that I found extremely useful - Knitting on the World Wide Web. Wowzer, the blogs and patterns and websites and online stores are amazing (and the worst possible temptation for anyone that loves instant gratification - so take it slow and you should be okay.) Two things really changed how I saw my own personal knitting - blogs and Ravelry.com. I'm thinking I was a little late to the game in regard to both, but in my defense was I writing a thesis for the past several years and that process along with an adviser seemed to think they deserved all my time kept me a bit sheltered from the online knitting world (this may have been a good thing as I would probably still be writing that thesis). However, in past year I've found a home at Ravelry for sharing my ideas, what I'm sure is considered less than funny humor, my desires, my questions - a real think tank of like minded people for an art that I have loved since childhood. And then there are the blogs......

I jumped into the fray in 2010 with my own blog -The Green Girl - now I'll admit that I don't have a following the likes some of greats like The Yarn Harlot, but that anyone takes their precious time to read something I've written is a thrill that I won't even try to describe. I'm tremendously honored. As I was considering what to review for the first installment of Knitty Scribe, I poured through books, articles, patterns and I started to get a little "a feared" as we say. There's a lot of stuff laying about to be reviewed - old, new, good, bad, and all between, but it occurred to me in the shower (this seems to be the place where I think - don't ask just go with it - I know you have an odd thinking place, too) that bloggers bring an interesting variation to our literary community. I mean there are blogs about everything and I mean that literally - you name it, you'll find a blog about it.  And the one thing I find especially interesting about blogs is their diary aspects. Dear Diary, today I.... that was how we started diaries or journals when I was a girl, but today we go online and write those words (in whatever form) and let the world in on our lives. And in the case of knitting, we are let in on the creative and exceptional prowess of our fellow knitters. This posting is dedicated to the Knitting Blog....

I shall look at only two blogs that I follow on a regular basis (you'll see why only two as we go). They were picked from about 30 blogs that I follow and their inclusion should not be considered a slap in the face of any other knitting blog for each is special in their own way - I just figured it was a good place to start and that none of you would want to be reading this one post at the end 2011 as that's how long I could write about knitting blogs. Here goes (and as a reminder, no judgment - I mean how can you judge someone's personal thoughts and ideas - I cannot.)

1) The Yarn Harlot - by: Stephanie Pearl-McPhee - http://www.yarnharlot.ca/blog/
Many of you may know Stephanie's writing, she considers herself a writer of humor and I would agree. However, if you haven't heard of the Harlot before, take a gander, I think you'll find a blog that is both inspiring and funny. Whether you knit or not, I think you will find her writing funny. That's what keeps me coming back to her blog. Stephanie can make the dull or the disaster a little lighter and easier to take. She says the things we are too embarrassed to say about our own feelings toward knitting, life and family.  Her blog is a pick-me-up and it is also instructional. The blog goes back several years and I highly suggest taking the time to read through all the postings, there is a lot of good stuff in terms of patterns, humor, life.

2) The Purling Sprite - by: Isela Phelps -http://www.purlingsprite.com/
Isela is what can only be described as an active woman. She's a mom, a wife, a designer, a knitter (both traditional and loom) and a marathon runner. For me that equals - active! Her blog is also part of her overall website. She chronicles her knitting, mothering and running adventures much to everyone's delight. I especially chose Isela's blog because she is a loom knitter. This is an old craft that is gaining new levels of acceptance in the crafting world and Isela promotes this form of knitting in grand style. Her book on loom knitting socks is the considered the bible for the art among loomers. Whether you are curious about looming or share Isela's love of marathons, I think you'll enjoy this blog.

These are just two examples of knitting blogs and I highly suggest that you go on a little search adventure of your own and find more. You'll be amazed at what you find and how they elevate your love of the art of knitting. Each week along with a book, pattern or article I will review 1-2 blogs - I doubt we'll ever get through them all, but I hope that this blog will help others find the the work of so many talented people.

It is my sincerest hope that you find the Knitty Scribe informative and fun. Please feel free to leave comments and suggestions for materials to be reviewed. Millions of eyes are obviously better than just my two (now needing glasses just to work) at finding things to share.

Knit on, Read on.....
The Knitty Scribe