So I changed my look to a different template. Wheee.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Monday, December 18, 2006
Call me crazy...
But I think I'm going to attempt to participate in Knit From Your Stash 2007, the brainchild of Wendy of Wendy Knits.
The Rules:
1. The Knit-From-Your-Stash-a-Thon will start January 1, 2007 and run through September 30, 2007 -- a period of nine months.
2. We will not buy any yarn during that period, with the following exceptions:
2.a. Sock yarn does not count. What? You think we are made of stone? (Although I will try to refrain!)
2.b. If someone asks for a specific knitted gift that we really and truly do not have the yarn for, we may buy yarn to knit that gift.
2.c. If we are knitting something and run out of yarn, we may purchase enough to complete the project.
2.d. We each get one "Get Out of Jail Free" card -- we are each allowed to fall off the wagon one time.
3. We are allowed to receive gifts of yarn.
4. Spinning fiber of any sort is exempt.
I'm not entirely sure if my stash will last me until September, but I dare say it could. I have a lot of UFOs that I believe also count toward my stash!
The only thing that kills me is that this stashalong of sorts aligns perfectly with my nine months of freedom before beginning law school. This might, indeed, be hard. However, time will tell.
Back to homework.
The Rules:
1. The Knit-From-Your-Stash-a-Thon will start January 1, 2007 and run through September 30, 2007 -- a period of nine months.
2. We will not buy any yarn during that period, with the following exceptions:
2.a. Sock yarn does not count. What? You think we are made of stone? (Although I will try to refrain!)
2.b. If someone asks for a specific knitted gift that we really and truly do not have the yarn for, we may buy yarn to knit that gift.
2.c. If we are knitting something and run out of yarn, we may purchase enough to complete the project.
2.d. We each get one "Get Out of Jail Free" card -- we are each allowed to fall off the wagon one time.
3. We are allowed to receive gifts of yarn.
4. Spinning fiber of any sort is exempt.
I'm not entirely sure if my stash will last me until September, but I dare say it could. I have a lot of UFOs that I believe also count toward my stash!
The only thing that kills me is that this stashalong of sorts aligns perfectly with my nine months of freedom before beginning law school. This might, indeed, be hard. However, time will tell.
Back to homework.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
Jewelry portfolio
I took a beginning jewelry (read: metalsmithing) class this past semester. It was my last semester of undergraduate studies (*sigh*), and it was that one thing I'd been wanting to take forever.
I got my pieces back, and there are actually a good amount of them that I will actually wear! And I had so much fun doing it, that I still want to continue my pursuit of jewelry-making. We shall see.
I'll go in chronological order, so you can see me go from being clueless to less clueless.
These were my first two assignments. A leaf, and a leaf bracelet. I used nice, soft copper on both. Impressively, the bracelet is already tarnishing. Wooo. I wouldn't wear copper, as it turns one's skin green; it's not my thing anyway. These make nice mementos, though.
Next, I had to do a chain project. Again, I used copper, as I didn't have to anneal the wire; it was already soft enough to manipulate into rings by hand. I got a C+ on this, by the way, even though I still think it looks pretty decent for being a boring bracelet. Probably won't ever wear this, either.
Next, I started to move on to more fun stuff! These are two ring bands made out of brass; the one on the right is my size, a petite 5 1/2. I was proud when it came out right. The one on the left is for a friend of mine, who joked that I should make him a ring. I did. It's a size 9, as his fingers aren't very large. I pressed some squares on his, while mine is perfectly smooth. You can't really tell from the photo, but my plain band is polished to a high shine to the point where it looks like a wedding band or something. I plan to wear it to work to hopefully deter creeps from hitting on me!
At this point in the semester, I invested in some silver so I could make some pieces out of the only metal I usually wear.
This was supposed to be a brooch rather than a pendant. I made my own pin back closure, and I was getting really proud of the thing... until I had a nice mishap on the buffing wheel that destroyed my closure. Pressed for time, it became a pendant. This is my first (and only) stone setting; this amethyst kicked my butt, as I had no idea bezel setting would be so... annoying. Oh well. I may yet put a pin back on the thing, as I'm more likely to wear it as a brooch than a pendant.
These earrings were the quickest, easiest, and less mishap-y of all the things I created! They, too, are silver, but aged a bit with liver of sulfur in order to give them a more pewter-y look. Like the ring above with the squares on it, these have circles imprinted on them.
A quick band I whipped up for the boy.
Now for my favorite piece, my casting project! It is so terribly awesome; but I'll tell you, lost wax casting was one of the scariest processes I've ever encounter. I looked around for a video on youtube, and none of them actually showed it being done. No fun!
This is the shape of the ring. Mostly square-ish, with beveled edges. I think I love it.
Now to wear it out tonight!
I got my pieces back, and there are actually a good amount of them that I will actually wear! And I had so much fun doing it, that I still want to continue my pursuit of jewelry-making. We shall see.
I'll go in chronological order, so you can see me go from being clueless to less clueless.
These were my first two assignments. A leaf, and a leaf bracelet. I used nice, soft copper on both. Impressively, the bracelet is already tarnishing. Wooo. I wouldn't wear copper, as it turns one's skin green; it's not my thing anyway. These make nice mementos, though.
Next, I had to do a chain project. Again, I used copper, as I didn't have to anneal the wire; it was already soft enough to manipulate into rings by hand. I got a C+ on this, by the way, even though I still think it looks pretty decent for being a boring bracelet. Probably won't ever wear this, either.
Next, I started to move on to more fun stuff! These are two ring bands made out of brass; the one on the right is my size, a petite 5 1/2. I was proud when it came out right. The one on the left is for a friend of mine, who joked that I should make him a ring. I did. It's a size 9, as his fingers aren't very large. I pressed some squares on his, while mine is perfectly smooth. You can't really tell from the photo, but my plain band is polished to a high shine to the point where it looks like a wedding band or something. I plan to wear it to work to hopefully deter creeps from hitting on me!
At this point in the semester, I invested in some silver so I could make some pieces out of the only metal I usually wear.
This was supposed to be a brooch rather than a pendant. I made my own pin back closure, and I was getting really proud of the thing... until I had a nice mishap on the buffing wheel that destroyed my closure. Pressed for time, it became a pendant. This is my first (and only) stone setting; this amethyst kicked my butt, as I had no idea bezel setting would be so... annoying. Oh well. I may yet put a pin back on the thing, as I'm more likely to wear it as a brooch than a pendant.
These earrings were the quickest, easiest, and less mishap-y of all the things I created! They, too, are silver, but aged a bit with liver of sulfur in order to give them a more pewter-y look. Like the ring above with the squares on it, these have circles imprinted on them.
A quick band I whipped up for the boy.
Now for my favorite piece, my casting project! It is so terribly awesome; but I'll tell you, lost wax casting was one of the scariest processes I've ever encounter. I looked around for a video on youtube, and none of them actually showed it being done. No fun!
This is the shape of the ring. Mostly square-ish, with beveled edges. I think I love it.
Now to wear it out tonight!
Monday, December 11, 2006
On assignment
Thank you everyone for the kind words about my kitty. I tried to reply to them all, but found it kind of weird; one thing that still confuses me to Blogger is replying to comments. Sometimes more savvy bloggers send me a reply to a comment via e-mail, and I'm, um, not sure how to do this. There seems to be some way because there's always the name of the blog in the subject heading and whatnot. Plus, I only receive a few of the comments that actually get posted via e-mail. Anyone know what the deal is?
Anyway, I've not been knitting much. Finals and such, culminating in a minimum of 80 pages for me to write this week. I'll do it, but it feels suspiciously like pulling teeth. Thank goodness it's the last time; if I were going, I'd be walking in my graduation ceremony on Sunday... except I'm not going! Don't want to, don't have to... I'm such a rebel. I can find better things to spend $30 on other than a black gown. Heck, that's almost enough to get the Knitpicks Andean Silk to make Knitty's Tubey!
Yes, yarn diet.
Oh, um, I knitted one of my final exams. The assignment was for my WGST/AAS course, Black Women: Politics and Racism. The assignment was to create a collage or other artistic rendering of Black womanhood. So, I decided to knit Angela Davis and talk about political power and subordination... you know, the usual stuff.
Random bits of Red Heart I had laying around... matte board... and a hot glue gun. I didn't really have time to make her into a purse or pillow or something, so I figured that a panel on a board would do well enough... right? My professor seemed happy enough about it. Now if I don't ace this assignment, someone is most assuredly going to be toast!
All my classmates were like, trying to get me to commission sweaters or sell my work/designs. You know, make a living off my knitting? If only that were actually possible...
Anyway, I've not been knitting much. Finals and such, culminating in a minimum of 80 pages for me to write this week. I'll do it, but it feels suspiciously like pulling teeth. Thank goodness it's the last time; if I were going, I'd be walking in my graduation ceremony on Sunday... except I'm not going! Don't want to, don't have to... I'm such a rebel. I can find better things to spend $30 on other than a black gown. Heck, that's almost enough to get the Knitpicks Andean Silk to make Knitty's Tubey!
Yes, yarn diet.
Oh, um, I knitted one of my final exams. The assignment was for my WGST/AAS course, Black Women: Politics and Racism. The assignment was to create a collage or other artistic rendering of Black womanhood. So, I decided to knit Angela Davis and talk about political power and subordination... you know, the usual stuff.
Random bits of Red Heart I had laying around... matte board... and a hot glue gun. I didn't really have time to make her into a purse or pillow or something, so I figured that a panel on a board would do well enough... right? My professor seemed happy enough about it. Now if I don't ace this assignment, someone is most assuredly going to be toast!
All my classmates were like, trying to get me to commission sweaters or sell my work/designs. You know, make a living off my knitting? If only that were actually possible...
Thursday, December 07, 2006
:'(
R.I.P. Dumars, December 30, 1989 - December 7, 2006
As much as it kills me inside, my baby kitty is no more. She was just so arthritic and stopped bothering with the litterbox and... well... I feel like I've lost more than just a cat because, let's be honest, I wasn't even five when I got her. I begged mom and dad endlessly for a kitty, and my aunt's cat had kittens. I mean, the day I got her mom told me that dad was going off to get me a "surprise" and I remember clearly, standing by the front door, thinking that the "surprise" was a Sesame Street video or something.
Yeah, much better. Dad walked in with a kitten under his shirt. He probably got scratched by the terrified little kitten, but it didn't matter. It was so cool. We debated and debated what to name her. I said "Blackie" being an awesomely original four year-old. I think it was my mom who suggested Dumars, after Joe Dumars, a Pistons player that both my brother and I loved.
She was really perky and social up until the very end. It's just that she decided that grooming and litterbox use were unnecessary, as she was quite arthritic. If she was in a lot of pain, she didn't show it. She just wanted lots of love.
I really hope I can collect myself before I have to leave for work. I knew it was time, but that still doesn't help.
Happy news, Amy, happy news.
Savyminx has to have the coolest taste in color out there. Phosphor or Ultraviolet? Wait, ****, I'm on a yarn diet. The only person I've found who competes is Perchance to Knit who also puts stuff on her blog, always a good read. All the delicious fiber seems to get snatched up quickly, thank goodness, because in that case I'd be buying it all up!
Er, um, yeah. Yarn diet.
And holiday gifts. How am I doing? Uh, badly.
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Etsy, how I love thee.
I didn't give Etsy much notice when it first popped up.
Now I LOVE browsing on it, and occasionally buy things.
I bought these from craftyone77, who notably makes really sweet notebooks out of found objects. I had a soft spot for the paint chip ones, having spent too many months behind the paint counter at Lowe's.
And today, it was the earrings.
How could I resist? These are from Resplendent Redhead. If I had more money, I'd have bought EVERYTHING on her shop.
I'm knitting one of my final exams. I'm getting there; might even finish it tonight. I'll post it like mad because I think it'll be pretty sweet when all is said and done. I do need to get my hands on some red or black or silver board that's used for mattes in a frame. Maybe at Art Attack?
Sorry I'm being mysterious about it. It'll be worth the wait, I promise! Hope my professor likes it. She did say, when giving the assignment, that we could basically do what we wanted, including glue macaroni to paper. Might as well use a method I enjoy, right?
Now I LOVE browsing on it, and occasionally buy things.
I bought these from craftyone77, who notably makes really sweet notebooks out of found objects. I had a soft spot for the paint chip ones, having spent too many months behind the paint counter at Lowe's.
And today, it was the earrings.
How could I resist? These are from Resplendent Redhead. If I had more money, I'd have bought EVERYTHING on her shop.
I'm knitting one of my final exams. I'm getting there; might even finish it tonight. I'll post it like mad because I think it'll be pretty sweet when all is said and done. I do need to get my hands on some red or black or silver board that's used for mattes in a frame. Maybe at Art Attack?
Sorry I'm being mysterious about it. It'll be worth the wait, I promise! Hope my professor likes it. She did say, when giving the assignment, that we could basically do what we wanted, including glue macaroni to paper. Might as well use a method I enjoy, right?
Sunday, December 03, 2006
Some people have lots of cats, we have fish.
I got a Betta fish to keep me company in my dorm room three years ago. I named him Cai, after one of the knights in The Mists of Avalon which I was reading at the time. I got him a bowl, a fish sitter for spring break, and he kept me company. Cai is still with me today. Over the summer he graduated to a one gallon bowl instead of his half gallon former home. He was still seeming sluggish, as he was much larger than when I got him.
So, Cai graduated again to a two gallon filtered, aerated tank:
These days, the little guy is three years old and more active than ever. The change in his disposition was remarkable. In the meantime, Steve and I had gotten five other bettas and two goldfish, each with a bowl to themselves, of course. Seeing Cai's improved state led us to decide that ALL of these fish deserve their own little tank. Except today, we went overboard:
My brother was going to give us a ten gallon tank, but it was in such a bad state of repair that we decided to forget it... and went to PetSmart and got one twice as large. There are no fish in it yet, as it is filtering, heating, and aerating its way to stability for the next couple of days. There is a tank divider so two of our remaining five lucky bettas will get new ten gallon digs complete with lots of real and fake plants, pretty gravel...
Yeah. Overboard. We couldn't decide which fishies got the two spots in the tank, so we ended up putting their names in a hat and picking them out..
So, Cai graduated again to a two gallon filtered, aerated tank:
These days, the little guy is three years old and more active than ever. The change in his disposition was remarkable. In the meantime, Steve and I had gotten five other bettas and two goldfish, each with a bowl to themselves, of course. Seeing Cai's improved state led us to decide that ALL of these fish deserve their own little tank. Except today, we went overboard:
My brother was going to give us a ten gallon tank, but it was in such a bad state of repair that we decided to forget it... and went to PetSmart and got one twice as large. There are no fish in it yet, as it is filtering, heating, and aerating its way to stability for the next couple of days. There is a tank divider so two of our remaining five lucky bettas will get new ten gallon digs complete with lots of real and fake plants, pretty gravel...
Yeah. Overboard. We couldn't decide which fishies got the two spots in the tank, so we ended up putting their names in a hat and picking them out..
Monday, November 27, 2006
This makes my head spin.
So, a peace sign wreath is A SYMBOL OF SATAN? What the HELL? This just dumbfounds me. I guess anything that goes against their narrow beliefs and MAYBE questions the war is now satanic. I guess in that case I've been worshiping satan for a long time.
No, jerks, did you forget that peace is one of the central themes of Christmas? Listen to your Christmas carols! Peace on earth, goodwill to men? A peace sign wreath fits nicely with what the holiday has always symbolized to me. Kudos to the couple for sticking to their guns. I, too, would keep the thing up through the holidays and refuse to pay the fine. And then perhaps I would accuse a bitchy neighbor of worshiping satan who owned black cat or something equally ridiculous.
And what the hell happened to "love thy neighbor?"
Okay, yeah, I think this proves that I could NEVER live in one of those ridiculous subdivisions with the ridiculous rules about how one's house is supposed to look, what color the blinds are supposed to be, how nice your garden must be, etc. I'd be sure to get in trouble and make the neighbors hate me.
...
I didn't get the Google job, either... I thought everything went well, and I got one of those vague rejection letters in my e-mail late Saturday. I did reply and ask for a more concrete reason; I've always done that, and it's always been some sort of trite bullshit. I expected better from Google, but I guess this shows that they're no better than any other large company. I'm kind of pissed that I put so much energy into all the ridiculous things Google makes you do for weeks before you even interview only to have it all shot down.
Oh, erm, knitting?
I started my fourth pair of knucks. A friend's birthday is coming up.
No, jerks, did you forget that peace is one of the central themes of Christmas? Listen to your Christmas carols! Peace on earth, goodwill to men? A peace sign wreath fits nicely with what the holiday has always symbolized to me. Kudos to the couple for sticking to their guns. I, too, would keep the thing up through the holidays and refuse to pay the fine. And then perhaps I would accuse a bitchy neighbor of worshiping satan who owned black cat or something equally ridiculous.
And what the hell happened to "love thy neighbor?"
Okay, yeah, I think this proves that I could NEVER live in one of those ridiculous subdivisions with the ridiculous rules about how one's house is supposed to look, what color the blinds are supposed to be, how nice your garden must be, etc. I'd be sure to get in trouble and make the neighbors hate me.
...
I didn't get the Google job, either... I thought everything went well, and I got one of those vague rejection letters in my e-mail late Saturday. I did reply and ask for a more concrete reason; I've always done that, and it's always been some sort of trite bullshit. I expected better from Google, but I guess this shows that they're no better than any other large company. I'm kind of pissed that I put so much energy into all the ridiculous things Google makes you do for weeks before you even interview only to have it all shot down.
Oh, erm, knitting?
I started my fourth pair of knucks. A friend's birthday is coming up.
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Wheee, a FO!
First set of SNBN Felted Furry Foot Warmers? Check.
Two wash cycles got them down to a women's size 12.
Modeled by the boy, who they actually fit correctly.
Annoyingly enough, the pattern calls for three balls of LP Bulky and two of funfur; well, I have a full skein of LP Bulky left and a good amount of funfur. Hrmph. I know I could make a third slipper; anyone want an extra?
I'm worried, though, as they're fulled to the point of zero stitch definition, and with the second pair I'll be going for a size 9 1/2 - 10... quite a bit smaller. How much can you felt something before it... stops?
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
WIPs, mostly
Not as much on the knitting front lately as I'd like. I'm pretty sure that this semester is topping last Winter as far as difficulty goes. Back then I had nineteen credits, and I ended up writing about 300 (yeah, I counted) pages worth of papers because most of my classes had weekly assignments.
Now, I only have fifteen credits. However, after Thanksgiving, I have two twenty-page research papers, a thesis, and two projects to turn in. Okay, so one of said projects is my first ever lost-wax casting project for my jewelry class... Fun, but still lots of work. The worst of that is behind me though: carving the wax model. It's a squared-off ring with an abstract (because I can't carve very well) star on it. It's taking 28g of silver (for a size 5 1/2 ring... yeah, it's bulky), which is every scrap I have from every other project I've done this semester, so I guess I budgeted well. That, the amethyst brooch, and the earrings I did will be the three projects from this semester that I'll probably wear regularly. I'll post photos when I get everything back at the end of the term...
The holiday gifts for a few lucky ones this year will be Felted Furry Foot Warmers from SNBN. I don't think the recipients look at this blog, and if they do, SHAME ON YOU! I haven't felted them yet, and they look kind of funny.
I haven't quite finished the second one of the first pair; they're deep green LP Bulky with black LB Fun Fur. It felt weird to buy Fun Fur, but it feels like one of those yarns that can be used in moderation only.
They're huge now, 16" long to be exact. The recipient of this first pair wears a size 12 women's shoe, so hopefully they shrink accordingly. Depending how it goes, I may shrink the pattern more for the recipient of the second pair which I haven't started.
The other major WIP is a pair of two-at-once toe-up magic loop socks. I've never done two at once or magic loop before. It's slow going and fiddly, so I'm not sure if I'm going to want to continue doing socks this way. I'm already crying for the DPNs and I'm not that far in! Anyone else feel this way?
Now, I only have fifteen credits. However, after Thanksgiving, I have two twenty-page research papers, a thesis, and two projects to turn in. Okay, so one of said projects is my first ever lost-wax casting project for my jewelry class... Fun, but still lots of work. The worst of that is behind me though: carving the wax model. It's a squared-off ring with an abstract (because I can't carve very well) star on it. It's taking 28g of silver (for a size 5 1/2 ring... yeah, it's bulky), which is every scrap I have from every other project I've done this semester, so I guess I budgeted well. That, the amethyst brooch, and the earrings I did will be the three projects from this semester that I'll probably wear regularly. I'll post photos when I get everything back at the end of the term...
The holiday gifts for a few lucky ones this year will be Felted Furry Foot Warmers from SNBN. I don't think the recipients look at this blog, and if they do, SHAME ON YOU! I haven't felted them yet, and they look kind of funny.
I haven't quite finished the second one of the first pair; they're deep green LP Bulky with black LB Fun Fur. It felt weird to buy Fun Fur, but it feels like one of those yarns that can be used in moderation only.
They're huge now, 16" long to be exact. The recipient of this first pair wears a size 12 women's shoe, so hopefully they shrink accordingly. Depending how it goes, I may shrink the pattern more for the recipient of the second pair which I haven't started.
The other major WIP is a pair of two-at-once toe-up magic loop socks. I've never done two at once or magic loop before. It's slow going and fiddly, so I'm not sure if I'm going to want to continue doing socks this way. I'm already crying for the DPNs and I'm not that far in! Anyone else feel this way?
Monday, November 20, 2006
More Google love
You'll notice in the sidebar that I now share stories and blog posts that I like with you all!
Oh the joy of it all.
Oh the joy of it all.
Oh Google, how could I have ever doubted you?
Have no idea how the interview went. Will probably be hearing something after the holidays. Until then, time to stress out.
I think the most exciting non-homework non-career related thing to talk about is reading blogs. Before you turn away like this is the most boring thing you've ever heard, let me confess something: RSS feeds scare me. I have a few on my livejournal friends page, but these are already-created click-to-subscribe sorts of things. The code doesn't always render nicely, but such is life. Anyway, as far as blogger goes, I wasn't really sure how to synthesize and read my favorite blogs. So, what did I do? I clicked the links off my homepage to check for updates.
I asked the boy if he had any ideas, and he told me that Trillian Pro and Mozilla Thunderbird both have RSS reader things, but I decided that wasn't the route to go, as their setup was pretty clunky.
My life was pretty much saved when I stumbled upon Google Reader. To think, just today, I was listing off Google products I was familiar with, not thinking that they had an RSS reader. Oh, I was sooooo wrong. Google, I'll never doubt you again.
The thing is, it's so easy. You can type in a blog's name and it'll fetch the feed. You can type in "CNN" or "NPR" or "fark" and get the feeds from those sites. Or you can just be a nerd and type in a feed URL.
....
All right, I'll just shut up and talk about knitting. Felted Furry Footwarmers for gifts, magic looped socks, and too many projects in the queue. I'm actually on a self-imposed yarn-buying diet. The boy set the parameters: I have to finish five projects before I can buy more yarn. Here's hoping I don't break down and do five dishcloths.
I think the most exciting non-homework non-career related thing to talk about is reading blogs. Before you turn away like this is the most boring thing you've ever heard, let me confess something: RSS feeds scare me. I have a few on my livejournal friends page, but these are already-created click-to-subscribe sorts of things. The code doesn't always render nicely, but such is life. Anyway, as far as blogger goes, I wasn't really sure how to synthesize and read my favorite blogs. So, what did I do? I clicked the links off my homepage to check for updates.
I asked the boy if he had any ideas, and he told me that Trillian Pro and Mozilla Thunderbird both have RSS reader things, but I decided that wasn't the route to go, as their setup was pretty clunky.
My life was pretty much saved when I stumbled upon Google Reader. To think, just today, I was listing off Google products I was familiar with, not thinking that they had an RSS reader. Oh, I was sooooo wrong. Google, I'll never doubt you again.
The thing is, it's so easy. You can type in a blog's name and it'll fetch the feed. You can type in "CNN" or "NPR" or "fark" and get the feeds from those sites. Or you can just be a nerd and type in a feed URL.
....
All right, I'll just shut up and talk about knitting. Felted Furry Footwarmers for gifts, magic looped socks, and too many projects in the queue. I'm actually on a self-imposed yarn-buying diet. The boy set the parameters: I have to finish five projects before I can buy more yarn. Here's hoping I don't break down and do five dishcloths.
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Best secret pal ever!
While I was out shopping for an interview outfit, shoes, and makeup (and therefore singlehandedly holding up the American economy), a package arrived.
Somewhere in Maine, someone loves me. I know, I know, everyone goes on about how they have the best Secret Pal ever. But, seriously, to have a Secret Pal who seems to know me and my favorite types of yarn intimately is just... wow.
A bright pink with bits of subtle purple wool/silk from the Purled Llama. The yarn is called Melena. It has a really nice sheen to it like nobody's business. I'm almost thinking it'd make a good one skein wonder. We'll see. If not, Sexy Scarf #3,000,000. There's not much better than sexy scarves, really.
Also, a skein of Perchance to Knit's Foxtrot! Buaaahhh! If any of you are wondering, this stuff is more gorgeous in person. What sock pattern would do it justice?
And last and totally not least, two skeins of Bernat blacklight. If I don't do a shrug with the Melena, this is totally becoming one. Actually, it should be about right for the Anthropologie Inspired Capelet from Peony Knits. Bulky weight, soft, and washable. As much as natural fibers are nice, I still enjoy being able to wash things with a machine as opposed to by hand. My handwashing piles up and stays in a pile for a while.
Besides, I tested it because of the name. It IS blacklight reactive. Secret Pal, you just rule.
I really need to do homework instead of knit, and if I were to knit, it would have to be on those holiday gifts... I'm finding comfort in knowing that I am graduating from college in exactly a month, and that after that I can knit, sew, and do whatever to my heart's content.
Said job interview is Monday. It's with a large computer company that you all use every day. In fact, they own blogger's servers. I'll give you a hint: It starts with a G, and ends with an "oogle." I really want this job. Hope my interview outfit is as hot as I think it is.
Somewhere in Maine, someone loves me. I know, I know, everyone goes on about how they have the best Secret Pal ever. But, seriously, to have a Secret Pal who seems to know me and my favorite types of yarn intimately is just... wow.
A bright pink with bits of subtle purple wool/silk from the Purled Llama. The yarn is called Melena. It has a really nice sheen to it like nobody's business. I'm almost thinking it'd make a good one skein wonder. We'll see. If not, Sexy Scarf #3,000,000. There's not much better than sexy scarves, really.
Also, a skein of Perchance to Knit's Foxtrot! Buaaahhh! If any of you are wondering, this stuff is more gorgeous in person. What sock pattern would do it justice?
And last and totally not least, two skeins of Bernat blacklight. If I don't do a shrug with the Melena, this is totally becoming one. Actually, it should be about right for the Anthropologie Inspired Capelet from Peony Knits. Bulky weight, soft, and washable. As much as natural fibers are nice, I still enjoy being able to wash things with a machine as opposed to by hand. My handwashing piles up and stays in a pile for a while.
Besides, I tested it because of the name. It IS blacklight reactive. Secret Pal, you just rule.
I really need to do homework instead of knit, and if I were to knit, it would have to be on those holiday gifts... I'm finding comfort in knowing that I am graduating from college in exactly a month, and that after that I can knit, sew, and do whatever to my heart's content.
Said job interview is Monday. It's with a large computer company that you all use every day. In fact, they own blogger's servers. I'll give you a hint: It starts with a G, and ends with an "oogle." I really want this job. Hope my interview outfit is as hot as I think it is.
Saturday, November 04, 2006
Gothic washcloth?
Behold, the gothic washcloth!
I laughed for far to long at the meaning of a "Bauhaus washcloth."
But then, I came up with my own:
Much better.
I laughed for far to long at the meaning of a "Bauhaus washcloth."
But then, I came up with my own:
Much better.
Thursday, October 26, 2006
Everything you never wanted to know about me.
1. FIRST NAME?
Amy
2. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE?
My mom was having a baby girl at the same time as the woman across the street, her friend. We were due virtually at the same time, so they said that the first baby would be Sara, and the second would be Amy. Needless to say, I lost that race.
3. WHEN DID YOU LAST CRY?
Probably last Friday - damn LSAT score.
4. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING?
It's loopy and fun and unique.
5. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCHMEAT?
Roast beef
6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON, WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU?
Probably not.
7. DO YOU HAVE A JOURNAL?
This one, and a LiveJournal.
8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS?
Yes.
9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP?
Probably not, I thought rock climbing was freaking scary.
10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL?
TJ's Cranberry Almond Clusters
11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF?
No.
12. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG?
Physically, I can carry about fifty pounds without killing myself. I work in a huge glorified hardware store, and I started in paint. Moving paint around, especially five-gallon buckets, can build muscles fast. Now I'm starting in flooring, and the same can be said for packages of ceramic/porcelain tile. Have you ever lifted those things up?
13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM FLAVOR?
Ben & Jerry's Karamel Sutra.
14. SHOE SIZE?
8.5. That's a US size, it'd be a 39 in European, and I think a 6.5-7 in UK sizes...
15. RED OR PINK?
PINK.
16. WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF?
Gaining weight after going on birth control. BLEGH.
17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST?
My social life, where'd it go?
18. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO SEND THIS BACK TO YOU?
? No, that's ok.
19. WHAT COLOR PANTS, SHIRT AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING?
Black pajama pants, black shirt, no shoes, as I'm still in my PJ's. No, I have never been accused of being gothic.
20. LAST THING YOU ATE?
Coffee! With delicious peppermint mocha creamer.
21. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW?
Bauhaus, currently "In the Flat Field"
22. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE?
Lime green.
23. FAVORITE SMELL?
Cookies baking. Preferably my mom's chocolate chip variety. NOT when I make them.
24. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE?
Mom.
25. THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE YOU ARE ATTRACTED TO?
They better be a skinny boy with black hair...
26. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON YOU STOLE THIS FROM?
I pretty much just encountered her blog. It's interesting!
27. FAVORITE DRINK?
I despise any variety of soda or fizzy drink. Non alcoholic, give me coffee (venti peppermint mocha from Starbucks, regular coffee at home, mint condition at Caribou). Alcoholic, sangria.
28. FAVORITE SPORT?
I like to bowl and play tennis. I'm terrible at both. I never watch sports. Ever.
29. EYE COLOR?
Light grey/blue, then I have nice bright green contacts.
30. HAT SIZE?
Who knows their own hat size? Seriously...
31. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS?
Both. I'll wear one or the other depending on mood.
32. FAVORITE FOOD?
Steve's risotto.
33. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS?
I guess happy, since scary movies are only good to laugh at. (Snakes on a Plane!)
34. SUMMER OR WINTER?
Summer, hands down.
35. HUGS OR KISSES?
Candy or physical gestures? Well, hugs to both.
36. FAVORITE DESSERT?
Gelato, cheesecake, oh boy, I could go on.
37. WHAT BOOKS ARE YOU READING?
I don't get to read for fun these days. Luckily I graduate from college in December and can remedy that. For classes, I'm reading Hobbes' Leviathan, and Le Guin's Left Hand of Darkness.
38. WHAT'S ON YOUR MOUSE PAD?
I have a laptop, no need for one of those.
39. WHAT DID YOU WATCH LAST NIGHT ON TV?
I don't have a TV. Well, that's not completely accurate, there's one, but there's a DVD player Netflix!) and video games hooked up to it. I never watch TV, as we don't have it.
40. FAVORITE SOUNDS?
Ummm, jeez... music, preferably by one of my faovrite artists. The oven makes an interesting clicky noise?
41. ROLLING STONE OR BEATLES?
Beatles, no question. I can't stand Mick Jagger, mostly because of that thing with Bowie. Way to ruin David Bowie for me, asshole!
42. THE FARTHEST YOU'’VE BEEN FROM HOME?
Australia - probably Tasmania, specifically.
43. WHAT'’S YOUR SPECIAL TALENT?
What, you mean like those dumb videos on youtube where people can stick a fork through their tongue or something? No thanks...
44. WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
Michigan
45. WHO SENT THIS TO YOU?
I swiped it from Pepperknit.
Amy
2. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE?
My mom was having a baby girl at the same time as the woman across the street, her friend. We were due virtually at the same time, so they said that the first baby would be Sara, and the second would be Amy. Needless to say, I lost that race.
3. WHEN DID YOU LAST CRY?
Probably last Friday - damn LSAT score.
4. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING?
It's loopy and fun and unique.
5. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCHMEAT?
Roast beef
6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON, WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU?
Probably not.
7. DO YOU HAVE A JOURNAL?
This one, and a LiveJournal.
8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS?
Yes.
9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP?
Probably not, I thought rock climbing was freaking scary.
10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL?
TJ's Cranberry Almond Clusters
11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF?
No.
12. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG?
Physically, I can carry about fifty pounds without killing myself. I work in a huge glorified hardware store, and I started in paint. Moving paint around, especially five-gallon buckets, can build muscles fast. Now I'm starting in flooring, and the same can be said for packages of ceramic/porcelain tile. Have you ever lifted those things up?
13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM FLAVOR?
Ben & Jerry's Karamel Sutra.
14. SHOE SIZE?
8.5. That's a US size, it'd be a 39 in European, and I think a 6.5-7 in UK sizes...
15. RED OR PINK?
PINK.
16. WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF?
Gaining weight after going on birth control. BLEGH.
17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST?
My social life, where'd it go?
18. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO SEND THIS BACK TO YOU?
? No, that's ok.
19. WHAT COLOR PANTS, SHIRT AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING?
Black pajama pants, black shirt, no shoes, as I'm still in my PJ's. No, I have never been accused of being gothic.
20. LAST THING YOU ATE?
Coffee! With delicious peppermint mocha creamer.
21. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW?
Bauhaus, currently "In the Flat Field"
22. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE?
Lime green.
23. FAVORITE SMELL?
Cookies baking. Preferably my mom's chocolate chip variety. NOT when I make them.
24. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE?
Mom.
25. THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE YOU ARE ATTRACTED TO?
They better be a skinny boy with black hair...
26. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON YOU STOLE THIS FROM?
I pretty much just encountered her blog. It's interesting!
27. FAVORITE DRINK?
I despise any variety of soda or fizzy drink. Non alcoholic, give me coffee (venti peppermint mocha from Starbucks, regular coffee at home, mint condition at Caribou). Alcoholic, sangria.
28. FAVORITE SPORT?
I like to bowl and play tennis. I'm terrible at both. I never watch sports. Ever.
29. EYE COLOR?
Light grey/blue, then I have nice bright green contacts.
30. HAT SIZE?
Who knows their own hat size? Seriously...
31. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS?
Both. I'll wear one or the other depending on mood.
32. FAVORITE FOOD?
Steve's risotto.
33. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS?
I guess happy, since scary movies are only good to laugh at. (Snakes on a Plane!)
34. SUMMER OR WINTER?
Summer, hands down.
35. HUGS OR KISSES?
Candy or physical gestures? Well, hugs to both.
36. FAVORITE DESSERT?
Gelato, cheesecake, oh boy, I could go on.
37. WHAT BOOKS ARE YOU READING?
I don't get to read for fun these days. Luckily I graduate from college in December and can remedy that. For classes, I'm reading Hobbes' Leviathan, and Le Guin's Left Hand of Darkness.
38. WHAT'S ON YOUR MOUSE PAD?
I have a laptop, no need for one of those.
39. WHAT DID YOU WATCH LAST NIGHT ON TV?
I don't have a TV. Well, that's not completely accurate, there's one, but there's a DVD player Netflix!) and video games hooked up to it. I never watch TV, as we don't have it.
40. FAVORITE SOUNDS?
Ummm, jeez... music, preferably by one of my faovrite artists. The oven makes an interesting clicky noise?
41. ROLLING STONE OR BEATLES?
Beatles, no question. I can't stand Mick Jagger, mostly because of that thing with Bowie. Way to ruin David Bowie for me, asshole!
42. THE FARTHEST YOU'’VE BEEN FROM HOME?
Australia - probably Tasmania, specifically.
43. WHAT'’S YOUR SPECIAL TALENT?
What, you mean like those dumb videos on youtube where people can stick a fork through their tongue or something? No thanks...
44. WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
Michigan
45. WHO SENT THIS TO YOU?
I swiped it from Pepperknit.
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Socks!
Hooray! I finished the Anastasia Socks! And to top it off, I've just started my first-ever pair of two-at-once magic loop socks. And wouldn't you know, I get it. This success is a surprise, because I already frogged my Deep V Argyle vest once - silly me messed up the ribbing on the very bottom. Oh well, three rows is certainly no loss.
Thursday, October 19, 2006
SP9, among other things
I got a really cute Halloween card from my Secret Pal. And then immediately felt like a dolt because I signed up with an old address. Oh well... I e-mailed her/him back so hopefully she got the right one now.
And I think I'm doing okay with my secret pal, er, doing the spoiling, that is. I try to send her things just as I decide to, since randomness is pretty fun. I've never done this before, and so I'm terrified that she won't like what I've put together for her. I mean... bleh, it's difficult. I hate to say too much in case she stumbles upon my blog. Let's just say I gathered all the parts for one of my favorite patterns and the materials, and hoping she goes gaga for it too. It's like buying for a difficult relative, but more difficult!
And everyone should go here and drool over the Foxtrot sock yarn. I'm tempted to order myself some. But no, I am poor, I can't be doing that...
I finished the knitting part of my silk corset. It's going to need aggressive blocking in order to fit. I mean, it looks tiny, but the rib pattern is so very stretchy. I just have to crochet around edges, weave in ends, sew on buttons, and BLOCK LIKE A MUTHA! This would be an ideal time to have a squishy dress form... Maybe one day...
But, the good news is, freeing up those needles meant that I got to cast on my Deep V Argyle Vest! Hopefully I don't ruin this thing, but I did take advice from the old knit along and NOT use merino style. I'm using the skinner, more DK-ish Telemark and some pink wool I got from the MI Fiber fest.
I'm afraid, though, very afraid. My swatch turned out OK, but it was a while ago, and I think maybe I should be using 5s instead of 4s. ... At least my Anastasia socks are almost done and quite nice.
And I think I'm doing okay with my secret pal, er, doing the spoiling, that is. I try to send her things just as I decide to, since randomness is pretty fun. I've never done this before, and so I'm terrified that she won't like what I've put together for her. I mean... bleh, it's difficult. I hate to say too much in case she stumbles upon my blog. Let's just say I gathered all the parts for one of my favorite patterns and the materials, and hoping she goes gaga for it too. It's like buying for a difficult relative, but more difficult!
And everyone should go here and drool over the Foxtrot sock yarn. I'm tempted to order myself some. But no, I am poor, I can't be doing that...
I finished the knitting part of my silk corset. It's going to need aggressive blocking in order to fit. I mean, it looks tiny, but the rib pattern is so very stretchy. I just have to crochet around edges, weave in ends, sew on buttons, and BLOCK LIKE A MUTHA! This would be an ideal time to have a squishy dress form... Maybe one day...
But, the good news is, freeing up those needles meant that I got to cast on my Deep V Argyle Vest! Hopefully I don't ruin this thing, but I did take advice from the old knit along and NOT use merino style. I'm using the skinner, more DK-ish Telemark and some pink wool I got from the MI Fiber fest.
I'm afraid, though, very afraid. My swatch turned out OK, but it was a while ago, and I think maybe I should be using 5s instead of 4s. ... At least my Anastasia socks are almost done and quite nice.
Friday, October 13, 2006
My best FO?
Well, my SP9 hostess asked me what my favorite/best FO is. Choosing is a hard process. At first I was thinking my Clapotis, but since everyone has made one of those and it was pretty easy, I decided to stick with something that's a little more unique.
If you've been reading me for more than like four months, you probably remember this:
It's a beaded scarf I made for my grandmother's 85th birthday out of koigu and some bronze beads. She loved it, but probably in that "I'll only wear this for a special occasion" kind of way. I got the pattern from a co-worker at my LYS, who has been using it as a demo to teach classes on beaded knitting.
So yeah. Not hugely technically difficult, but made better by the fact that I know it was loved and well-received. Grandma was like, "Oh, these are my colors! How lovely!" and on and on because she's a talker. :-)
If you've been reading me for more than like four months, you probably remember this:
It's a beaded scarf I made for my grandmother's 85th birthday out of koigu and some bronze beads. She loved it, but probably in that "I'll only wear this for a special occasion" kind of way. I got the pattern from a co-worker at my LYS, who has been using it as a demo to teach classes on beaded knitting.
So yeah. Not hugely technically difficult, but made better by the fact that I know it was loved and well-received. Grandma was like, "Oh, these are my colors! How lovely!" and on and on because she's a talker. :-)
Monday, October 02, 2006
Secret Pal 9 Questionnaire
1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
Favorites:
Malabrigo, koigu, lorna's laces, anything with modal in it (Knitpicks Shine, Berroco Touche). I don't hate acrylics - Encore, caron simply soft and whatnot are useful when washability is paramont. I also love sugar 'n' cream and lion cotton because I make too many dishcloths.
Least Favorites:
Red heart and knitpicks pallette. (Pallette was soooo splitty!)
2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
A desk drawer. I've been meaning to sew myself a roll-up case because I have hordes of DPN's and straights flying around everywhere.
3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
I learned when I was six, and I'm 21 now. I didn't knit constantly, but it's become my life with the onslaught of Stich 'n' Bitch and hot knitting patterns that weren't there before. I'd call myself advanced; I used to teach in a yarn shop and I don't think there's any technique that frightens me. (Except MAYBE steeking!)
4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
Urrrrr, one that's so old it's barely worth mentioning. In fact, I won't.
5. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products, etc.)
Vanilla, rose, lavender... You know, most candles and whatnot smell pretty nice, except for patchouli.
6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
Ben & Jerry's is my weakness, but I don't think that can be mailed. I love, LOVE chocolate of all varieties and swedish fish. I'm not so much a fan of sour or cinnamon candy.
7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?
I have a drop spindle, roving, and a bit of frustration. I wish I could figure it out. I also sew myself clothing, or, attempt to.
8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
My computer and stereos are quite capable! I really am into older music, 70s and 80s sort of stuff: Bauhaus, David Bowie, Devo, Duran Duran, Iggy Pop, Joy Division, New Order, Peter Murphy, Love & Rockets, Ministry, Nitzer Ebb, ELO, The Beatles... As for new stuff, I'm more limited in my likings: NIN, Franz Ferdinand... and I've just drawn a blank! The majority of my music collection honestly is on vinyl or in my ipod. I hardly use CDs.
9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand?
Piiiiink! Hot pink and black is my favorite combination. I love lime green, too. I'm not much of a fan of... yellow? Color is good, in general.
10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
No pets, unless you count my six Betta fish. I live with my fiance.
11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
All of the above, except for ponchos. Cold weather accessories are the only thing I like about a Michigan winter - I mean, they're very necessary, and they can be very cute. I have so many scarves, but there's nothing cooler than a ridiculous scarf, is there?
12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
I do like to make myself sweaters, but I've made far more gloves, dishcloths, and smaller things. I've been on a sock kick, lately, also.
13. What are you knitting right now?
Uh oh. That's a loaded question. I'm heading up the Dishcloth KAL, so dishcloths up the... Additionally, Annie Modesitt's silk corset, knitty's exchequered, many, many knucks as gifts (I've made three pairs already... Have yarn for two more), and the Anastasia socks. My next project is Eunny's Deep V Argyle Vest.
14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
Sure!
15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
I have no need for circulars, other than my beloved Boye set. I use needles of all materials, really, metal and bamboo mostly. Plastic was too grabby and annoying for my taste.
16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
Nope. I've been meaning to invest in one, though.
17. How old is your oldest UFO?
Two or three years, I'd venture to guess. I'm not sure though.
18. What is your favorite holiday?
Halloween!
19. Is there anything that you collect?
Not really, unless yarn counts.
20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
I don't have any magazine subscriptions, and my favorite knitting mag is Interweave. I used to get Vogue but it got rather ridiculous, to the point where an issue would come and I wouldn't want to make anything. The internet has given me more free patterns than I could ever hope for, and between my mom and I we have a nice knitting library...
21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
I'm going to be trying steeking soon! Other than that... ? I've tried most every knitting technique in existence!
22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
Yes, indeed I make socks. I'm a US 8 1/2, so my foot is about 9 1/2 inches long.
23. When is your birthday? (mm/dd)
June 30th.
Favorites:
Malabrigo, koigu, lorna's laces, anything with modal in it (Knitpicks Shine, Berroco Touche). I don't hate acrylics - Encore, caron simply soft and whatnot are useful when washability is paramont. I also love sugar 'n' cream and lion cotton because I make too many dishcloths.
Least Favorites:
Red heart and knitpicks pallette. (Pallette was soooo splitty!)
2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
A desk drawer. I've been meaning to sew myself a roll-up case because I have hordes of DPN's and straights flying around everywhere.
3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
I learned when I was six, and I'm 21 now. I didn't knit constantly, but it's become my life with the onslaught of Stich 'n' Bitch and hot knitting patterns that weren't there before. I'd call myself advanced; I used to teach in a yarn shop and I don't think there's any technique that frightens me. (Except MAYBE steeking!)
4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
Urrrrr, one that's so old it's barely worth mentioning. In fact, I won't.
5. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products, etc.)
Vanilla, rose, lavender... You know, most candles and whatnot smell pretty nice, except for patchouli.
6. Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
Ben & Jerry's is my weakness, but I don't think that can be mailed. I love, LOVE chocolate of all varieties and swedish fish. I'm not so much a fan of sour or cinnamon candy.
7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?
I have a drop spindle, roving, and a bit of frustration. I wish I could figure it out. I also sew myself clothing, or, attempt to.
8. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
My computer and stereos are quite capable! I really am into older music, 70s and 80s sort of stuff: Bauhaus, David Bowie, Devo, Duran Duran, Iggy Pop, Joy Division, New Order, Peter Murphy, Love & Rockets, Ministry, Nitzer Ebb, ELO, The Beatles... As for new stuff, I'm more limited in my likings: NIN, Franz Ferdinand... and I've just drawn a blank! The majority of my music collection honestly is on vinyl or in my ipod. I hardly use CDs.
9. What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand?
Piiiiink! Hot pink and black is my favorite combination. I love lime green, too. I'm not much of a fan of... yellow? Color is good, in general.
10. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
No pets, unless you count my six Betta fish. I live with my fiance.
11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
All of the above, except for ponchos. Cold weather accessories are the only thing I like about a Michigan winter - I mean, they're very necessary, and they can be very cute. I have so many scarves, but there's nothing cooler than a ridiculous scarf, is there?
12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
I do like to make myself sweaters, but I've made far more gloves, dishcloths, and smaller things. I've been on a sock kick, lately, also.
13. What are you knitting right now?
Uh oh. That's a loaded question. I'm heading up the Dishcloth KAL, so dishcloths up the... Additionally, Annie Modesitt's silk corset, knitty's exchequered, many, many knucks as gifts (I've made three pairs already... Have yarn for two more), and the Anastasia socks. My next project is Eunny's Deep V Argyle Vest.
14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
Sure!
15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
I have no need for circulars, other than my beloved Boye set. I use needles of all materials, really, metal and bamboo mostly. Plastic was too grabby and annoying for my taste.
16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
Nope. I've been meaning to invest in one, though.
17. How old is your oldest UFO?
Two or three years, I'd venture to guess. I'm not sure though.
18. What is your favorite holiday?
Halloween!
19. Is there anything that you collect?
Not really, unless yarn counts.
20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
I don't have any magazine subscriptions, and my favorite knitting mag is Interweave. I used to get Vogue but it got rather ridiculous, to the point where an issue would come and I wouldn't want to make anything. The internet has given me more free patterns than I could ever hope for, and between my mom and I we have a nice knitting library...
21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
I'm going to be trying steeking soon! Other than that... ? I've tried most every knitting technique in existence!
22. Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
Yes, indeed I make socks. I'm a US 8 1/2, so my foot is about 9 1/2 inches long.
23. When is your birthday? (mm/dd)
June 30th.
Friday, September 22, 2006
He loves me!
So, I have finally finished the Lovemeknot socks. I had zero problems with the first sock. But then I got *smart* and decided that I would reverse the colors in the second. No problem... until I turn the heel. For some reason, I had a hell of a time CONTINUING the illusion pattern and getting the colors right after doing so.
But, I frogged back to the heel twice and they are finally done.
I used two balls of Knitpicks Palette, because these have been on my needles for so long that there wasn't black essential back when I ordered them.
Incidentally, I think I'm done with illusion knitting for a long time to come.
Whoa! Look! Hearts! And according to the mystic riddle at the end of the end of the pattern (props to Alice for always writing interesting patterns), Steve does, in fact, love me. Whew. And, because they are finished, Virginia Woolf will not haunt me. This is accurate because my days in literature classes are over. Whew!
But, I frogged back to the heel twice and they are finally done.
I used two balls of Knitpicks Palette, because these have been on my needles for so long that there wasn't black essential back when I ordered them.
Incidentally, I think I'm done with illusion knitting for a long time to come.
Whoa! Look! Hearts! And according to the mystic riddle at the end of the end of the pattern (props to Alice for always writing interesting patterns), Steve does, in fact, love me. Whew. And, because they are finished, Virginia Woolf will not haunt me. This is accurate because my days in literature classes are over. Whew!
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Two meh FOs; still here for your enjoyment.
So, first up we have a scarf:
This is the product of three balls of Joann Sensations Thick 'n' Thin that I found on clearance. Oh, and Steve wanted to pose in an "interesting" way, so we have a stapler attack, red eye, and a little something on the camera lens. I used regular old stockinette stitch, no border or anything, to get the curl. (Size 19 needles, hoo boy, they start to look a wee bit phallic after 13 or so, don't they?)
This is the fabric that it produced. The yarn itself is very thin, faux-mohair sort of, except for these GIGANTIC slubs in it.
And no, I cannot imagine making anything other than a simple scarf out of it. Simply put, if anyone has tried, they need to be shot, because anything else could not possibly look good!
Last, and much more awesomely, we have Knitty's Cigar. I'm going to gift these soon here. Because the recipient I have in mind probably wouldn't hand wash to save his life, they are made out of Lion Brand Wool-Ease and some scraps of black. It was a pretty good pattern, I'd say...
This is the product of three balls of Joann Sensations Thick 'n' Thin that I found on clearance. Oh, and Steve wanted to pose in an "interesting" way, so we have a stapler attack, red eye, and a little something on the camera lens. I used regular old stockinette stitch, no border or anything, to get the curl. (Size 19 needles, hoo boy, they start to look a wee bit phallic after 13 or so, don't they?)
This is the fabric that it produced. The yarn itself is very thin, faux-mohair sort of, except for these GIGANTIC slubs in it.
And no, I cannot imagine making anything other than a simple scarf out of it. Simply put, if anyone has tried, they need to be shot, because anything else could not possibly look good!
Last, and much more awesomely, we have Knitty's Cigar. I'm going to gift these soon here. Because the recipient I have in mind probably wouldn't hand wash to save his life, they are made out of Lion Brand Wool-Ease and some scraps of black. It was a pretty good pattern, I'd say...
Monday, September 11, 2006
Malabrigo love
Hooray! I finally finished my super-easy top-down cardigan out of Malabrigo (four hanks, but barely using the fourth). The color name is Loro Barranquero. I fell in instant love with the yarn at my LYS when they got it in because the colors all wound up on the hanks looked like fire. You know, fire in yarn form...
Next one is me (sort of) modeling it.
And a close-up of the buttons...
I found these buttons at my LYS also; I was going to go with something plain and boring until my co-worker there coaxed me into some that were a bit more interesting. They sort of have the same shimmer to them as Paua shells or something... except orange.
I did not change much about the pattern itself; the main difference was longer sleeves and longer in length in general. I ripped the bottom out twice (past the two inches of seed stitch) to add about four inches to the overall length. A pain in the neck, but if I hadn't, I wouldn't be happy with the darn thing.
I am happy with it, by the way. I bought the yarn knowing that it will sooner or later pill like a bitch and I'll have to buy myself a sweater shaver. Such is life. But it is SO soft, it is good even up against bare skin! Seriously, this wool feels like butter.
Next one is me (sort of) modeling it.
And a close-up of the buttons...
I found these buttons at my LYS also; I was going to go with something plain and boring until my co-worker there coaxed me into some that were a bit more interesting. They sort of have the same shimmer to them as Paua shells or something... except orange.
I did not change much about the pattern itself; the main difference was longer sleeves and longer in length in general. I ripped the bottom out twice (past the two inches of seed stitch) to add about four inches to the overall length. A pain in the neck, but if I hadn't, I wouldn't be happy with the darn thing.
I am happy with it, by the way. I bought the yarn knowing that it will sooner or later pill like a bitch and I'll have to buy myself a sweater shaver. Such is life. But it is SO soft, it is good even up against bare skin! Seriously, this wool feels like butter.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
A lot of small finished things.
Okay, so I'll admit it, I've been gearing up for the Dishcloth KAL. Big time. I've had so many people sign up that it's almost crazy. So when I found out that two friends of mine were holding an apartment-warming party in three days, I knew the only appropriate thing I could knit in time was, well, dishcloths.
These are the three I whipped up for them in as many days. From the top we have the Garterlac Dishcloth, the Petal Cloth, and the Bubble Wrap Dishcloth. The yarn is Lion Cotton in salt & pepper. When they got them, it was rather funny; they weren't sure if they were potholders, coasters, or what; although trying to balance a bottle of Smirnoff on the Bubble Wrap cloth proved amusing!
I also had a friend request blue dishcloths because she liked my first couple. I've only finished another Garterlac for her out of pool blue Sugar 'n' Cream Ombre:
I've got to finish one more and make a hat for her, as well; this friend is Claire, the recipient of the green knucks and scarf. She loved them, and I decided that I'd make her a hat out of the scrap Silky Wool left from her knucks and Steve's; problem is, I can't find the black 2/3 ball of Silky Wool ANYWHERE.
I also made one more just for me:
This is the Lacy Mock Cable cloth, which incidentally, I think, looks much better in a solid color. Oh well.
Amusingly enough, my mom has caught the dishcloth bug and made some for herself as well.
In non-dishcloth FOs, we have a third pair of knucks! These ones are mine, all mine! I made them out of Atacama Alpaca in this awesomely obnoxious bubblegum pink hand-dye. So delicious. So soft. No embroidery seems right on them, either.
And finally, I made a bag for my friend's birthday back in May, and submitted the pattern to Magknits. The editor magically started ignoring me, so I'll take it it was rejected without giving me the courtsey to say so:
You'd actually be pretty surprised how well grommits and a chain work as purse handles/closure. I quite liked the look, myself... I don't think Lisa hates it, either.
These are the three I whipped up for them in as many days. From the top we have the Garterlac Dishcloth, the Petal Cloth, and the Bubble Wrap Dishcloth. The yarn is Lion Cotton in salt & pepper. When they got them, it was rather funny; they weren't sure if they were potholders, coasters, or what; although trying to balance a bottle of Smirnoff on the Bubble Wrap cloth proved amusing!
I also had a friend request blue dishcloths because she liked my first couple. I've only finished another Garterlac for her out of pool blue Sugar 'n' Cream Ombre:
I've got to finish one more and make a hat for her, as well; this friend is Claire, the recipient of the green knucks and scarf. She loved them, and I decided that I'd make her a hat out of the scrap Silky Wool left from her knucks and Steve's; problem is, I can't find the black 2/3 ball of Silky Wool ANYWHERE.
I also made one more just for me:
This is the Lacy Mock Cable cloth, which incidentally, I think, looks much better in a solid color. Oh well.
Amusingly enough, my mom has caught the dishcloth bug and made some for herself as well.
In non-dishcloth FOs, we have a third pair of knucks! These ones are mine, all mine! I made them out of Atacama Alpaca in this awesomely obnoxious bubblegum pink hand-dye. So delicious. So soft. No embroidery seems right on them, either.
And finally, I made a bag for my friend's birthday back in May, and submitted the pattern to Magknits. The editor magically started ignoring me, so I'll take it it was rejected without giving me the courtsey to say so:
You'd actually be pretty surprised how well grommits and a chain work as purse handles/closure. I quite liked the look, myself... I don't think Lisa hates it, either.
Sunday, August 20, 2006
Fiber fest & Finished object
So I had a pretty neat weekend; I went to the Michigan Fiber Festival in Allegan. New experience, as I've never been to one before.
What have we here?
A massive ball of hot pink and black roving, and a drop spindle. I'm trying to learn, but I seem to be pretty klutzy with the thing. Any tips? I'm new to this spinning thing.
Just in case I hate it, I have backup: two balls of wool from a vendor called Lamb Lane, in hot pink and green (green for my mom). They're 400 yards each, sport-ish weight, and were only $6 each!
Also we have 200 yards of a 50/50 wool/silk blend that feels like butter! I'm picturing a nice lacy scarf ALL FOR ME.
Yeah, I'd say I was actually pretty good and didn't buy all that much.
This is my clapotis, out of my birthday gift yarn, seven balls of Noro Silk Garden #205. I know everyone and their mother has made one, and I felt sort of like a sellout doing one, but I really like how it turned out.
What have we here?
A massive ball of hot pink and black roving, and a drop spindle. I'm trying to learn, but I seem to be pretty klutzy with the thing. Any tips? I'm new to this spinning thing.
Just in case I hate it, I have backup: two balls of wool from a vendor called Lamb Lane, in hot pink and green (green for my mom). They're 400 yards each, sport-ish weight, and were only $6 each!
Also we have 200 yards of a 50/50 wool/silk blend that feels like butter! I'm picturing a nice lacy scarf ALL FOR ME.
Yeah, I'd say I was actually pretty good and didn't buy all that much.
This is my clapotis, out of my birthday gift yarn, seven balls of Noro Silk Garden #205. I know everyone and their mother has made one, and I felt sort of like a sellout doing one, but I really like how it turned out.
Friday, August 11, 2006
Monday, August 07, 2006
Dishcloth fanatic?
I blame Mason Dixon Knitting. I got that darn book in a swap, and I love looking through it at all the amazing, beautiful home decor that I don't really have a home to put in.
Enter my Clapotis. I'm in the infamous third section, which is literally miles and miles of stockinette stitch. I want a distraction. I was at Joann with my mom, and on a whim, I buy a brightly-colored ball of Lily Sugar 'n' Cream. Summer Splash is the color.
I decide to make a dishcloth out of Mason Dixon Knitting. My grandmother knits nothing but dishcloths, saying that she doesn't want to tackle anything larger. I can now see why; after all, I've now finished two in as many days, and they are just so darn easy! My ball of Sugar 'n' cream is down to a tiny, sad little ball, probably to be used with the other eight balls of dishcloth cotton I ordered from Joann. *Smacks head*
That's the Mason Dixon Knitting one, and even though it looks sort of small, this is the size it seriously said to make it. It's also pre-use.
This one is from the Dishcloth Boutique site. I think there were a couple of mistakes in the pattern (Double Diamond one), but I trudged my way through it...
Oh, I'm using them as washcloths in the shower, as opposed to dishcloths. They feel nice to me.
Now there are visions of washcloth knit alongs dancing through my head... I need to do something with the cotton I just ordered!
Enter my Clapotis. I'm in the infamous third section, which is literally miles and miles of stockinette stitch. I want a distraction. I was at Joann with my mom, and on a whim, I buy a brightly-colored ball of Lily Sugar 'n' Cream. Summer Splash is the color.
I decide to make a dishcloth out of Mason Dixon Knitting. My grandmother knits nothing but dishcloths, saying that she doesn't want to tackle anything larger. I can now see why; after all, I've now finished two in as many days, and they are just so darn easy! My ball of Sugar 'n' cream is down to a tiny, sad little ball, probably to be used with the other eight balls of dishcloth cotton I ordered from Joann. *Smacks head*
That's the Mason Dixon Knitting one, and even though it looks sort of small, this is the size it seriously said to make it. It's also pre-use.
This one is from the Dishcloth Boutique site. I think there were a couple of mistakes in the pattern (Double Diamond one), but I trudged my way through it...
Oh, I'm using them as washcloths in the shower, as opposed to dishcloths. They feel nice to me.
Now there are visions of washcloth knit alongs dancing through my head... I need to do something with the cotton I just ordered!
Thursday, August 03, 2006
In other news...
Claire got her gifts in the mail, and left me a voice mail to inform me that she loved them. I really like the fact that she mentioned that even though it's like 100 out, she was still wearing them just because she could.
Way cool. (Way hot?)
Just one more project to finish before I can order more yarn.
Way cool. (Way hot?)
Just one more project to finish before I can order more yarn.
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Two posts in a day, ssshhh!
I took some more photos.
Really because I finished the scarf to go with Claire's knucks. Steve was going to model them both, but alas, his hands are too big for the knucks.
So here are some random photos of knitting awesomeness.
There's Steve, with one of mom's knitted snowmen. He's modeling Claire's scarf, and the knucks are off to the side. The snoman and Xmas tree are there to make everything look more "wintery" than the hot weather has allowed.
A close-up of Claire's scarf. It's artful yarns broadway, acquired at the KARYS summer sale. It's just a drop stitch pattern, easy breezy!
Everything together. Hope they look all right and everything; I'm mailing them off to her tomorrow. How stupid, getting wintery accessories for one's birthday in July...? That's what she gets for keeping me on as a friend after all these years.
On a side note, the color of the knucks is somewhat of a long-running joke between us. When we were really young, both of us (but especially her) were OBSESSED with anything lime/neon green. Especially accessories. This is more toned-down than what we'd have liked at the age of thirteen, but she'll still get it.
And just for kicks, the snowman. Mom's been making these for ages. Not sure where the pattern is. Most were adorned in red and green Xmas accessories; I got the darker "punk" version of the snowman, reverse-stockinette beanie and all! The X eyes are supposed to be "punk" ... or is it drunk? When the snowman's hat is falling off, it makes you wonder...
Really because I finished the scarf to go with Claire's knucks. Steve was going to model them both, but alas, his hands are too big for the knucks.
So here are some random photos of knitting awesomeness.
There's Steve, with one of mom's knitted snowmen. He's modeling Claire's scarf, and the knucks are off to the side. The snoman and Xmas tree are there to make everything look more "wintery" than the hot weather has allowed.
A close-up of Claire's scarf. It's artful yarns broadway, acquired at the KARYS summer sale. It's just a drop stitch pattern, easy breezy!
Everything together. Hope they look all right and everything; I'm mailing them off to her tomorrow. How stupid, getting wintery accessories for one's birthday in July...? That's what she gets for keeping me on as a friend after all these years.
On a side note, the color of the knucks is somewhat of a long-running joke between us. When we were really young, both of us (but especially her) were OBSESSED with anything lime/neon green. Especially accessories. This is more toned-down than what we'd have liked at the age of thirteen, but she'll still get it.
And just for kicks, the snowman. Mom's been making these for ages. Not sure where the pattern is. Most were adorned in red and green Xmas accessories; I got the darker "punk" version of the snowman, reverse-stockinette beanie and all! The X eyes are supposed to be "punk" ... or is it drunk? When the snowman's hat is falling off, it makes you wonder...
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