tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-337290612024-03-07T12:15:10.705-07:00Happy Sewing, Happy Knitting"An activity becomes creative when the doer cares about doing it right, or doing it better" - John Updiketouranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073772107145934302noreply@blogger.comBlogger75125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33729061.post-41146820795399907602010-05-24T16:39:00.000-06:002010-05-24T16:39:03.799-06:00I've moved--->to:<br />
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<a href="http://bouldergal.wordpress.com/">wordpress</a>touranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073772107145934302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33729061.post-14914904779489993012010-02-02T16:42:00.004-07:002010-02-02T17:20:36.196-07:00Everything is half done.<div>I committed to intswemodo2010 on Ravelry, basically 12 sweaters/tops/vests in 12 months. My first sweater is a beautiful lace number which is taking a very long time. To take a break, I cast on this:</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4003/4326603534_cf6889abd5.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 397px; height: 500px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4003/4326603534_cf6889abd5.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><div>Pattern: <a href="http://www.knitscene.com/issue/Winter-spring-2010-projects.asp#shirtwaist-pullover">Shirtwaist Pullover by Teva Durham</a></div><div>Yarn: Tahki Yarns Sky in Leaf</div><div><br /></div><div>The yarn worked out perfectly weight wise, although the color is a little light for my skin. I get darker in the summer, so it'll look better then. I just have to figure what to wear with it. It's too short in the body for my jeans, so I'll need a skirt that sits at the waist. Time for a fabric diving expedition in my closet of shame. I can't visualise what colors (other than white or brown or purple) would go well with this. I probably have prints that would suit, but they're mostly floral and I think that'll look twee. </div><div><br /></div><div>It's so relaxing to have a quick project that I've put a stop to stashing fingering yarns. I've got enough of that weight to last quite a few years worth of knitting.</div><div><br /></div><div>On the sewing front, I meant to review a LBD. But the dress is so wrinkled looking in the photos, I'm too embarrassed to show it. Back to the ironing board.</div><div><br /></div><div>Too make up for lack of sewing, I've resorted to classic make-up stashing:</div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4060/4325866617_3887c1af96_o.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 800px; height: 386px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4060/4325866617_3887c1af96_o.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /></div><div>These are from Lucy's Fabrics: one of the prints is for my son (guess which one!) and the others are just basic cotton lycra knits. The gold one is a brushed knit, slightly beefier and would make a great dress or spring time hoodie.</div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2793/4326603644_8b4b859652.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 341px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2793/4326603644_8b4b859652.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /></div><div>This set is from Fashion Fabrics Club: quilted outerwear from Patagonia and a super wide Japanese wool/lycra knit. The last one had some beautiful colors that sold out in a flash. I missed out on a gorgeous deep rust and the black. Boo.</div><div><br /></div><div>I've got some pyjamas and workout pants that just need hemming and I can share more of my glamorous life.</div>touranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073772107145934302noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33729061.post-37857692750168073562010-01-17T19:31:00.006-07:002010-01-17T22:31:06.548-07:00Say Cheese!<img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 375px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2728/4284217864_a527defcea.jpg" border="0" alt="" /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Every year, I pick a new skill to try. Some work out better than other. Five years ago, I started crocheting, which led me back to knitting. Today, I have two stashes in which I can be buried. Six years ago, it was Italian. I can barely say howdeedo and can't even find some of my CD's to re-start.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>This year, I wanted to improve my photographic skills. I replaced my dodgy old camera with the new Nikon Coolpix d360. I dithered between getting a digital SLR and a regular digital camera and opted for cheap(er) and portable. It's an awesome little camera, with a lot of options for customisation beyond its point and shoot capabilities.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 375px; height: 500px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4031/4283473867_b1bcafc78d.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></div><div><br /></div><div>Thing is, I've forgotten how to use a camera properly. I learnt with my Dad's fancy SLR about 20 years ago, but since getting a point and shoot in the mid-90's, haven't given it much thought. So I got "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Betterphoto-Guide-Digital-Photography-Amphoto/dp/0817435522/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpi_1">Digital Photography</a>" by Jim Miotke. It's in simple enough language that I'm not getting bored and it has exercises to improve your skills. (It's for both point and shoots and digital SLR's).</div><div><br /></div><div>Tonight, I made a mini light box. I've been sitting on this <a href="http://www.strobist.blogspot.com/2006/07/how-to-diy-10-macro-photo-studio.html">information</a> for about a year and finally got motivated to make one. It's incredibly simple and fast. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 375px; height: 500px;" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4072/4282905405_8feef92648.jpg" border="0" alt="" /><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: left;">The effects are amazing:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 375px; height: 500px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2695/4283650796_804a06ce62.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I made mine much smaller than suggested for the minimum sizes and I need some more side lights. If you do try to make it, leave a good 2" on the edges you cut. It leaves the box more stable and easier to tape the tissue paper. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I have a lot of new aspirations for this year, but this is the new skill set I'm building. One of my aspirations is to spend less empty time on the computer, so I'm planning to make my computer time more productive, ergo re-starting the blog.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Happy New Year!</div>touranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073772107145934302noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33729061.post-46875674459465517202009-03-15T19:28:00.006-06:002009-03-15T20:18:19.934-06:00FO: Burda WOF 01-2007 109<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 375px; height: 500px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3437/3358608362_024445680f.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /><br /><div>I bought this "harajuku in London" thermal knit from <a href="http://www.thefabricfairy.com/Default.asp?Redirected=Y">The Fabric Fairy</a>, after I saw <a href="http://www.stacysews.com/projects/harajuku_lovers_knock-off_thermal/">Stacy's super cute thermal top</a> from a sister print. Off to Burda I went to find the right pattern. I don't remember paying any attention to this pattern when I first saw the January '07 issue of Burda, but it looked perfect for a fun little top.</div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3417/3358608326_2d398cb549.jpg?v=0"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 375px; height: 500px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3417/3358608326_2d398cb549.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /></a><div><br /></div><div>I made a size 42 and the fit is almost perfect, just a touch loose around the waist. The shoulders are gathered with sewn over elastic thread in 5 rows. I opted to use clear elastic in 4 rows to get the same effect. This creates a faux sweetheart neck, which is flirty, but not too low. </div><div><br /></div><div>The hardest part was the front band and underlap. I read and re-read it about ten times, before I got it. </div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 375px; height: 500px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3640/3358608138_141c34bc7a.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /></div><div><br /></div><div>The front part is faced with interfaced self fabric. </div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 375px; height: 500px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3456/3358608190_41eb050c3e.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /></div><div>The back part has a flap sewn to the cut line. </div><div><br /></div><div>Then the whole neckline is finished with binding. It came out a lot nicer than I expected with my fabric. </div><div><br /></div><div>I used donut shaped snap fronts as I didn't have any with a good color match and it worked perfectly. I'll show the snaps and tools in a later post.</div><div><br /></div><div>The sleeves have a high arch shape, but I finger eased them very easily. Everything, in fact, went together very smoothly, bar two little issues. </div><div><br /></div><div>First, for a slouchy top, as they've styled it, it's actually a little short. It's the perfect length for a T, but I should have remembered to add another inch or two for more cohesive look.</div><div><br /></div><div>Second, the front overlap wants to pull open. I thought this was because of my bust, but even on the mannequin, it pulls open. I imagine pulling the binding a little tighter on the neckline (between the snap bands and the gathering) would take care of this, by making the neckline hug the body. I'm going to just hand sew the snap bands together, since they're not necessary to take the top off or put it on.</div><div><br /></div><div>This is a great pattern to pull out of the archives. </div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div></div>touranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073772107145934302noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33729061.post-91877704951810345732009-03-08T17:46:00.003-06:002009-03-08T18:35:07.734-06:00FO: Climbing Vines Pullover<div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 375px; height: 500px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3632/3339805102_c37479ab83.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /><br /></div><div>Pattern: Climbing Vines Pullover </div><div>Source: Interweave Knits Winter 2008</div><div>Yarn: Malabrigo Worsted in Rojo Vivo</div><div>On Ravelry: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/touran/climbing-vines-pullover">Climbing Roses</a></div><div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 375px; height: 500px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3377/3338976369_44655f0e0d.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" />This was love at first sight. The pattern is very similar to one from Phildar, which has a reverse stockinette base instead of stockinette. IK made theirs in a tweed yarn, with a lot of ease. It was cute but kind of slouchy and frumpy. So, I made changes:</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">yarn</span> - yummy, tone-on-tone Malabrigo</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">neckline</span> - lowered by 2" and the ribbing is now the same width as at the body hem (1.75")</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">ease</span> - 0" ease. I should have had more negative ease, but my swatch lied. (All my swatches lie. I just make them now so I know what won't happen in my knitting! Rat Bastards!)</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">vine pattern</span> - I moved my from left to right of the front (accidentally).</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">vine pattern 2</span> - I repeated the lovely leaves on the left sleeve and it's just gorgeous. </div><div><br /></div><div>It's the first time I've knit clothing with Malabrigo and it really is dreamy stuff. It felt so good, I didn't want to put it down, even during the stockinette stitch. All in all, it took 4.25 balls, so it's a very economical sweater too.</div><div><br /></div><div>I knew that Malabrigo grows with blocking. Oh, but how it grew. It went from size 41" bust to 45" bust and grew about 5" in length. It was ghastly. I had two choices: cut it down to the right size and re-sew it (on a sewing machine) or shrink it in the dryer. Given that slighly felted wool is easier to cut and sew, I tried the dryer first. Five minutes in one minute increments and it's back to its original size. It's not even felted. The stitches and vine pattern are as distinct as before. </div><div><br /></div><div>I'm so happy with this. I have a hard time finishing big projects and I'm chuffed with myself over this. I just wish it would snow one more time so I can wear it. It's just too hot right now for a wool sweater, even such a pretty one.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>touranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073772107145934302noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33729061.post-87157723142063878852009-03-03T22:35:00.004-07:002009-03-03T22:51:37.354-07:00Sewing Plans for March<div>I have more commitments than time, so I'm trying to scale back some of my project ambitions. </div><div><br /></div><div>These are two poly/lycra knits waiting to be made up into <a href="http://www.voguepatterns.com/item/V8553.htm?search=8553&page=1">Vogue 8553</a>, with the plain black as the trim. I'm hoping to use this for spring, since the poly will be really uncomfortable in the Colorado summers. If it still fits right, I can use it later in the fall.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3377/3327661564_d95c36196a.jpg?v=0"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 375px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3377/3327661564_d95c36196a.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3324/3326825819_9f8692f89c.jpg?v=0"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 375px; height: 500px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3324/3326825819_9f8692f89c.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /></a><div><br /></div><div>This next one is a thermal knit from <a href="http://www.thefabricfairy.com/">The Fabric Fairy</a>, recommended by <a href="http://www.stacysews.com/">Stacysews</a>. I had to dig through my Burda WOF stash to come up with something just right. </div><div><br /><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 375px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3652/3326825785_f558d41520.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /><br /></div><div>This is from January 2007 - 109. Isn't it adorable? I love the gathering on the shoulders, to give it a sweetheart neckline. Instead of zigzagging over elastic, I'll sew over invisible elastic bands to get the gathers. I always found the way suggested in Burda such a bear. In 2o years, I haven't been able to do without tears and disappointment.</div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3562/3326825757_45f228e62b.jpg?v=0"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 375px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3562/3326825757_45f228e62b.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /></a></div><div><br />Oh, and taxes. My annual March whine. Taxes.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>touranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073772107145934302noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33729061.post-2418489232781558502009-03-03T20:54:00.003-07:002009-03-03T22:27:37.844-07:00FO: Burda WOF 12-2008 113<div>I love this wool jersey. It's a panel print of orange giraffes outlined in raised gold. It's so funny. I had to get a piece of another black jersey for the sleeves and used that for the neck binding, to tie the two shades of black together.</div><div><br /></div><div>I think it works. Because of the length of the panel, I made this into a tunic, the hem just skimming the top of my thighs. <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/catalog/category.jsp?popId=NEW_FOR_SEASON&fromDisplayPage=fromDisplayPage&cmElemTag=dropdown&navAction=jump&navCount=1&pushId=NEW_TUNICS&id=NEW_TUNICS">Anthropologie</a> says tunics are in this season, so who I am to argue?</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3358/3312626584_9fa6ff9dc3.jpg?v=0"><img style="text-decoration: underline;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 375px; height: 500px; " src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3615/3311797435_92c480c06b.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /><br /></a><div>I made a straight 44. With the gathers on the front, I didn't even need to do a full bust adjustment. Still, I'm losing weight (an ounce here, an ounce there), so the shoulders and decolletage are a little loose. I think I'll have to start cutting a 42 at the top. And believe me, I'm not complaining.</div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3358/3312626584_9fa6ff9dc3.jpg?v=0"><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 375px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3358/3312626584_9fa6ff9dc3.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /></a><div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This is the first version I made from cotton jersey - a soft nightgown for Christmas. I used a picot edge elastic for the neckline and much deeper hems. Is it too mumsy? I am Mom, so that's not too bad sometimes. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I think it'll be loverly in a knit flannel for winter time. I feel my hair greying as I type.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 375px; height: 500px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3573/3326825989_9e7a94bae3.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://sewing.patternreview.com/">Patternreview</a>:</div><div><br /></div><div>On a cost cutting urge, I didn't renew my FoPR membership last January. I haven't been sewing much this past year and I spend most of my time on Ravelry. But I signed up again. It's actually a really good deal, and now I don't go to my local sewing studio, it really is my only sewing community.</div><div><br /></div><div>I just wish the message boards had Rav's agree/disagree/love.... options and more variety. This girl is super spoiled by the splendors of Ravelry.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3615/3311797435_92c480c06b.jpg?v=0" style="text-decoration: none;"><br /></a></span><br /><br /></div></div></div>touranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073772107145934302noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33729061.post-15947507222307430752009-02-13T21:28:00.004-07:002009-02-13T21:51:22.323-07:00My Valentine<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 369px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIVfA8Hu5eUNDaidfDcbXm1daAatKdWeR_4rjyiSG3Ov3fWv6lmFZ4pONBpqkoPzLxhQlIzVsO1oLXakOS5qFQ5C9d0XV2rg5xNFVySFIJmQ_2p2bEQIv6Z9yYsU7wvfkxuNr23w/s400/DSCN4865.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5302505706212900370" /> <div>Pattern: Corazoncitos Amigurumi Hearts (<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/corazoncitos-amigurumi-hearts-pattern#">On Ravelry</a>)</div><div>Yarn: Cascade 220</div><div>Time: 30 minutes</div><div><br /><div>I have a new obsession: amigurumi! I know I'm late to the party, but this is the kind of crochet I can get into. </div><div><br /></div><div>This was a gift for my son and has a safety pin on the back, so he can wear it.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 375px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFGBHtsrumpdrjvQiRg8dh64cy6oKGdtnE27xzKbsSPIeoqDg5VhsziA4k4TL4MkuB9Dr7pw4hWjmfe3u1Hvmc3VR9h7RxGtxkm85YQBBgyW9Uv6ht5N8AMFw1Nk-09i-mThNM2w/s400/DSCN4866.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5302505705944989410" /><div><br /></div><div>"<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Amigurumi-World-Seriously-Cute-Crochet/dp/1564778479/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1234586256&sr=8-1">Amigurumi World, Seriously Cute Crochet</a>" is a lovely book with very clear instructions and, yes, seriously cute crochet. Meet Yertle:</div><div><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS-vWvbFX49-OzE9dQt8OjdRCsKxwvG6r9Wo2ag8KVJYQA7VM-8bfDMvoYParfLECTUyTVgpEwMlDptOITYPIpSNQlmJlEhyG9cYiqV86oXiOO5YqlVg6iNjODTs042v7tHjNS6g/s1600-h/DSCN4861.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 359px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS-vWvbFX49-OzE9dQt8OjdRCsKxwvG6r9Wo2ag8KVJYQA7VM-8bfDMvoYParfLECTUyTVgpEwMlDptOITYPIpSNQlmJlEhyG9cYiqV86oXiOO5YqlVg6iNjODTs042v7tHjNS6g/s400/DSCN4861.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5302505701326737266" /></a><br /></div><div>Pattern: Tiny Turtle (<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/tiny-turtle">On Ravelry</a>)</div><div>Yarn: Cascade 220</div><div>Time: 40 mins</div><div><br /></div><div>Isn't he adorable? It's really addictive, even without recipients in mind. Of course, if you know any kids, real or eternal, you even have a good excuse.</div><div><br /></div><div>The author, Ana Paula Rimoli, has an <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=9639&section_id=5907685">etsy store</a>, and patterns for zodiac amigurumi in the latest knit1. And hers is just the tip of the iceberg. Check out the links at the end of the Wiki entry for the topic.</div></div></div>touranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073772107145934302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33729061.post-46248051278150693862009-02-09T16:48:00.006-07:002009-02-09T17:08:18.189-07:00Petersburg, Rowan 42<img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNSxNo_X9lfaAM1dESZz9HAjuUxVkXIPpXhHL9VR0YGQXd-NurJpGZ-BMfA8Bs5pV0TQizDvtwt8m9KSLZUJn1caeHOj4takqyYjbMk9Tv9GBEA3Vfy_NT8VmGvHcKeoQIGaB-mw/s400/DSCN4839.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300950160778947650" /><br />My commitments are showing. I've finally finished a KAL project. <div><br /><div>This is Petersburg, originally done in Cocoon, from Rowan 42. It looked really pretty over fitted, long sleeve tops, and the cables are really delicious. They're predictable, but not boring. </div><div><br /></div><div>I cheaped out by using Knitpicks Swish Bulky, only 4 hank</div><div>s, for the 38" bust. It's actually a pretty resilient yarn - I frogged, tinked, cut, mangled and treated it pretty badly and it held up really well. But, it's just not in the same league as Rowan's Cocoon. </div><div><div><br /></div><div>The KAL is this quarter's project for the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/the-official-sexy-knitters-club">The Sexy Knitters' Club</a> on Ravelry. I think it's the first time there has been a technique topic rather than a pattern, which made it a lot easier for me to commit. I'm excited to see what comes up next.</div><div><br /></div><div>Next, I'm working on a top from Burda 12/08, in this knit:</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizRqae9SkhImTeecrw2hsCr12TuSrP6KXXAgOtUTkSdEgA77mTjLJ-m0MPJoKnLf2LGqr5fzhyADRVlYb03TCDnpRBY2lpE4H3UikV0GLJBW6lX9QIuNfOmOp0RwJXWYOeHaaJ7g/s400/DSCN4834.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300953250551795970" /></div><div><br /></div><div>Yes, glittery giraffes. Oh, the subtlety.</div><div><br /></div></div></div>touranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073772107145934302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33729061.post-33940755528914776532009-02-09T16:43:00.003-07:002009-02-09T16:48:14.563-07:00New Blog NameSince I've barely sewn anything this past year, I felt the title should reflect my, uh, other distractions. <div><br /></div><div>I was looking at Purl Bee's new Blog Arena, the Purl Beehive, when it occurred to me that rather than starting a new blog, I should re-commit to the one I have. So blog and I are renewing are vows.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></div>touranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073772107145934302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33729061.post-52382614103024089552008-06-03T11:17:00.004-06:002008-06-03T11:38:21.991-06:00Even more knitting! With sewing application!!<img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3034/2486865111_345eee9bc3.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /><br /><div>Pattern: "Jatta" by Norah Gaughan. </div><div>Yarn: Elann Peruvian Highland Wool, felted (& roving for needle felting)</div><div>Lining: Amy Butler cotton</div><div><br /></div><div>This was my first felting project and it sat uncompleted for almost a year, because I was to chicken to try needle felting. </div><div><br /></div><div>Needle felting is both easier and harder than it looks. Easy to do and hard to make perfect. </div><div><br /></div><div>It takes quite a few needle pounces to secure the roving and this can create 'bruised' fabric. I think this is another reason that it's recommended to turn the fabric over and pounce the design from the back - to make it flat again. </div><div><br /></div><div>Also, (and this is pretty obvious) the roving, once it's felted into the fabric, takes up a smaller area than as free roving. So, you have to figure on the design, eg the petals, becoming smaller once it's felted.</div><div><br /></div><div>Of course, you can needle felt onto any wool fabric. I practiced on some worsted wool coating (with some nylon content) and it looked really beautiful. It's definitely a lovely add-on for fabric embellishment, on lapels or pockets, or bags.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2171/2486864933_a60c7e8e0a.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2110/2486865223_c1274a7a28.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>touranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073772107145934302noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33729061.post-6969482162361136062008-06-03T11:13:00.003-06:002008-06-03T11:17:39.960-06:00D.I.V.O.R.C.ENo, not Tom and me. We're lifers. <div><br /></div><div>My Bernina store and local fabric store got divorced. Bernina moved out of town and is unapproachable. The fabric store is still local but kind of lonely and depressed, putting on a brave face. </div><div><br /></div><div>I can't just drop by and browse fabrics because I feel obligated to buy something. And, I'm not going to drive 10mins out of town to go to the Bernina store, because I can't be bothered to take classes there. </div><div><br /></div><div>Divorce sucks and one won't even talk to the other. </div><div><br /></div><div>I think I'll have to join a knitting group.</div>touranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073772107145934302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33729061.post-75064544730023492962008-05-23T19:17:00.003-06:002008-05-23T19:35:53.627-06:00Knitting FO's<div>I've had a bit of bumper month with finished knitting projects. Our kitchen was being re-modeled and that's right next to my mac. So, instead of buying <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">stuff</span> online, I've been making <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">stuff</span> with my <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">stuff</span>.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Little Leaf Scarf</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3091/2486863691_09e12094db.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /><div><br /></div><div>Pattern: Little Leaf Scarf, from Classic Elite's <a href="http://www.classiceliteyarns.com/pattern_detail.php?patternID=45">"Make It Modern"</a></div><div>Yarn: Rowan's Purelife Cotton (Brazilwood)</div><div><div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2147/2486863783_17e0ffc774.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /><br /></div><div>This is the most ridiculously soft cotton I've touched. It's organic from source through to the dye and knits beautifully at 22st/4". The plies are a little loose, but I didn't have a problem with splitting. </div><div><br /></div><div>It took less than half a ball of yarn and turned it out beautifully. I think it'll be a perfect gift for my son's amazing Montessori teacher.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'll keep on posting the rest of the FO's throughout the week.</div><div><br /></div><div><div><br /></div><div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div>touranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073772107145934302noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33729061.post-13518931329599603952008-05-23T10:58:00.002-06:002008-05-23T11:26:52.256-06:00Rebecca x2<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2077/2487679616_d75e3b56af.jpg?v=0"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2077/2487679616_d75e3b56af.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><div>I got to open a backlog of mail this week and guess what I found?</div><div><br /><div>Lovely <a href="http://fiberartsafloat.blogspot.com/">Marji</a> had a "50 at 50" giveaway last month. I (very quickly) asked for this issue of 'Rebecca', which I've been wanting for a very long time. </div><div><br /></div><div>So she sent it to me.</div><div><br /></div><div>So did my Mom. </div><div><br /></div><div>Huh! Anyway, I'm forwarding the generosity. I'll mail one of these to the first person who asks for it. Leave a contact in the comments.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>touranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073772107145934302noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33729061.post-76606419993030066832008-05-06T14:19:00.004-06:002008-05-06T15:25:39.003-06:00Jalie 2794<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3089/2457284175_e7750fab40.jpg?v=0"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3089/2457284175_e7750fab40.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><div><br /></div><div>So, the poor Avs lost rather spectacularly. The Red Wings were just too good. Boo. Worse than watching your team lose, is watching your team lose live with hundreds of other depressed fans. By the third period, there were more Red Wings fans in the stands. <br /></div><div><br /></div><div>At least, I had the nicest t shirt there. They really don't make attractive women's shirts. Either they're cut like men's shirts or they're sparkly pink. Gah!</div><div><br /></div><div>I used <a href="http://www.jalie.com/sewingpatterns/patterncovers/back/2794.pdf">Jalie 2794</a> for my t shirt makeover. The original was a size XL. I managed to cut out most of a size AA from the fabric. The front yokes are cut from some matching burgundy cotton tube knit, as are the bands.</div><div><br /></div><div>The size is pretty much perfect. I think in a more stretchy fabric, it might even be a touch loose. </div><div><br /></div><div>I left off the the center front elastic because it would have interfered with the logo. Also, the bands were too long to really pull in the back neck sufficiently against my neck. That's an issue others have also noted.</div><div><br /></div><div>All in all, this is a great pattern. I love it so much that it's already getting re-cut it in a linen knit.</div><div><br /></div><div>The back?</div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2119/2457284437_8ffb9255bb.jpg?v=0"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2119/2457284437_8ffb9255bb.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /></a>Why, yes, I am a Forsberg fan. </div><div><br /></div><div>Btw - what's up with hockey groupies? Have they never smelled hockey gear?? </div>touranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073772107145934302noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33729061.post-62786548878792006642008-05-06T14:16:00.004-06:002008-05-06T14:17:47.208-06:00Stash Storage<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2004/2458114576_7988a50c02.jpg?v=0"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2004/2458114576_7988a50c02.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><div>Alas, I'm not 50 gram sized. More like 40 grams.</div>touranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073772107145934302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33729061.post-17583391508644360522008-04-20T16:44:00.003-06:002008-04-20T17:03:13.204-06:00Vogue 8506<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2031/2428365249_219ced586d.jpg?v=0"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2031/2428365249_219ced586d.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I'm, I guess, content with my <a href="http://www.voguepatterns.com/item/V8506.htm?tab=whats_new&page=4">bag</a>. It looks good and is functional, but I get so frustrated by the 'home-sewn' quality of notions that I can get my hands on and my lack of experience sewing bags finely. My bags always look home-sewn to me. Gah! <br /></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div>I think it's a combination of materials chosen, notions available, sewing machine techniques and pressing equipment. I've seen a very few beautifully sewn bags on PatternReview, but they've been rare. I just wish I could make that skill leap. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2217/2429177672_9c477de6fc.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Happy things instead.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3115/2428365093_b5d6675578.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /></div><div><br /></div><div>I've been gathering Rowan yarns for a Kaffe Fassett cardigan from Rowan 31. This is it on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/smoulder">Ravelry</a>. It's a lovely combination of wide stripes of purples and reds. A lot of the colors are discontinued, so I'm approximating madly.</div><div><br /></div><div>They're like candy kisses.</div>touranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073772107145934302noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33729061.post-72110854740937806232008-04-17T14:28:00.004-06:002008-04-17T17:21:16.236-06:00Summer BagI decided to join in the <a href="http://patternreview.com/">PatternReview</a> Bag Contest. I've never quite completed anything for any kind of sewing contest or sewalong. But a bag? Surely even I can commit to a bag in a month. Because if I can't, I really have a serious problem.<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>This is a print from Kokka Fabrics (Japanese), for View D from <a href="http://www.voguepatterns.com/item/V8506.htm?tab=whats_new&page=4">Vogue 8506</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3072/2419664185_8ded58427c.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>It's a lightweight print, so I fused it with Vilene H410 and used muslin for interlining. I'm hoping it's the right combination for a semi-structured bag like this. A PR member mentioned using many layers of fusing to get just the right texture and weight for a handbag. It had never occurred to me before to do this, but so far it's working out right.</div><div><br /></div><div>The pattern is great, bar a few problems. It's clear without being verbose (you hear me, Amy Butler???)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Meanwhile my winter project is languishing without a hem. This is <a href="http://www.voguepatterns.com/item/V2884.htm?tab=vintage_vogue&page=2">Vintage Vogue 2884</a>.</div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2108/2420477486_f58f1a1cd6.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /></div><div><br /></div><div>I changed the lapel roll and it's beautiful. But everytime I try to buckle down and sew up the hem, the sun comes out and the temperature hits the 70's. So I grab the cottons and linens. And then it snows. Aye!! This is the sad lot of the procrastinators. <br /></div><div><br /></div>touranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073772107145934302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33729061.post-37132102959241748142008-03-25T21:21:00.002-06:002008-03-25T21:50:52.586-06:00Mood Fabrics<div>I didn't get to go the PR West Coast get together two weeks ago, but I got to visit LA on Easter weekend. It was mostly time at the beach and with Mickey, but I did get one glorious hour in Mood, which was deserted.</div><div><br /></div><div>I did pretty well, I think:</div><div><br /></div><div>This is a Nanette Lepore wool, 2.25 yds. I know the big woven tweeds are pretty much done now, but it's so beautiful and visually appealing that I couldn't stop myself. At the rate I use up my fabric, it'll be in vogue again before I get to it. It makes me very happy.</div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3280/2362344005_d938755c9f_m.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3280/2362344005_d938755c9f_m.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><div>This is a soft rayon lycra, which will be perfect for a summer top. (Summer 2008 that is!)</div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3292/2363175518_c7ffccbf9a_m.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3292/2363175518_c7ffccbf9a_m.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /></div><div>This is a Cavalli print in 1.75 yd panels. The colors there are all my favorites: cream, gold, red, black and green. There are gold metallic dots outlining some areas and it's gorgeous. This will take a little planning to make the best of it. </div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2091/2363175698_c5bc088934_m.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2091/2363175698_c5bc088934_m.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /></div><div>This one is a designer print, but I can't remember who. It is a textured cotton/lycra, heavyweight but just right for a summer and fall dress.</div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2385/2362344269_ba7daaf10c_m.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2385/2362344269_ba7daaf10c_m.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /></div><div>And, last is a double layer cotton lawn, brown under layer, pistachio top layer. They are sewn together in a large paisley pattern with cutouts to show the brown. This one was very expensive, so I got enough to make a loose, short sleeved summer top.</div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2264/2362344125_e661db5ebd.jpg?v=0"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2264/2362344125_e661db5ebd.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><div>Since I got into knitting heavily last year, my time is very divided between fabric and yarn, but I'm moving into some kind of balance. </div><div><br /></div><div>I'm finishing up my winter projects, so I'll have some finished objects to show soon. But spring is knocking hard on our door and I'm having to hurry up.</div></div>touranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073772107145934302noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33729061.post-53314935140170571332007-11-27T10:10:00.000-07:002007-11-27T14:56:22.518-07:00Mojo Shopping<div>I've lost my sewing mojo - it's probably somewhere under the overwhelming mass of patterns - so I've been stashing. I think I'm hoping something will snag at me and I'll be a sewing fool again. </div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2410/2069017425_1c3ff16b0c.jpg?v=0"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2410/2069017425_1c3ff16b0c.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><div>This is Amy Butler's new <a href="http://www.amybutlerdesign.com/products/patterns_display.php?id=35">Sophia</a> carry-all and some of her heavier weight cotton. I'm excited about the challenge of making a professional handbag. So many handbag patterns are so very homemade and they have their place. But I've always enjoyed the kind of patterns that Vogue puts out.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>I've also been drooling over this Japanese quilt and craft book, featuring <a href="http://www.kaffefassett.com/">Kaffe Fassett's</a> fabrics. It has a few quilts, slippers, coasters, decorations and such, all delightfully Japanese.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2077/2069017325_67fabb1355.jpg?v=0"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2077/2069017325_67fabb1355.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /></div><div>Look at this piece of loveliness:</div><div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2242/2069017381_3e472b749f.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /><br /></div><div>If you're familiar with the books by <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Omiyage-Handmade-Fabric-Japanese-Tradition/dp/0809229099">Kumiko Sudo</a>, this has the same gentleness and fun to it. If you're not familiar with Sudo, her "Omiyage" books is lovely, with lots of beautiful small pieces, like flower purses, little fabric boxes, decorations and such. They require some skill to make well but are very eye-catching.</div><div><br />I buy my Japanese magazines from <a href="http://stores.ebay.com/Simply-Pretty-Japanese-Beads-Books">this ebay seller</a>. She's fast, packages beautifully and the prices are good. The shipping is free too and it takes about 7-10 days to get to me in Colorado. I bought the latest Mrs. Stylebook also, although more for inspiration. I'm too tentative about my drafting skills.<br /><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2172/2069813102_b48ee1e7dc.jpg?v=0" border="0" alt="" /><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>touranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073772107145934302noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33729061.post-84461627808682241432007-11-10T17:45:00.001-07:002007-11-10T22:48:26.236-07:00Little Miss NoJo Knits a Hat!<div>Finally, a Finished Object:</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSyb11MPhcnLw5R4BeHQPugKTIu8ZdtAb7Mw3X4JHuDLbkyxaZzjQDjh-mEku7dimh9t4CG21CT4KXLyPJ9YUyK4y3qAOh94EYjkMe98j8u6KIHEqhMUhnSciCUvrM0yaCcq2IvA/s1600-h/DSCN3735.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSyb11MPhcnLw5R4BeHQPugKTIu8ZdtAb7Mw3X4JHuDLbkyxaZzjQDjh-mEku7dimh9t4CG21CT4KXLyPJ9YUyK4y3qAOh94EYjkMe98j8u6KIHEqhMUhnSciCUvrM0yaCcq2IvA/s400/DSCN3735.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5131384930819724610" /></a><br /><div>Pattern: <a href="http://www.knitty.com/issuewinter06/PATTcentersquare.html">Center Square</a> from Knitty</div><div>Yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease (doubled)</div><div>Size: Humongous, 'cause swatching is for losers!!</div><div><br /></div><div>This is an adult sized hat, but my son is just more gorgeous than me.</div><div><br /></div><div>I've been itching to do some fair isle knitting. My first attempt, Nordic style wrist warmers, didn't come out too well. Even though I spread my stitches when changing colors, I still had some pulling in a few areas.</div><div><br /></div><div>So I tried a bigger gauge and I did much better. This hat is a great practice piece. The double stranding in the fair isle makes it really warm and it took me only a couple of hours to make. It would be a fun gift.</div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHRTyQB_ZJr8e7DVgIxpcSomGNydRpJqglvlLqqv4o-9_nBofXS76FgmW114pP9KjE-oK8eU9fs7qxmAHtdL9tZjuyMV8JQLBKKm2tvzb4OdGYu1ESbzxngQ7VKZi2h9lGdXCTDQ/s1600-h/DSCN3743.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHRTyQB_ZJr8e7DVgIxpcSomGNydRpJqglvlLqqv4o-9_nBofXS76FgmW114pP9KjE-oK8eU9fs7qxmAHtdL9tZjuyMV8JQLBKKm2tvzb4OdGYu1ESbzxngQ7VKZi2h9lGdXCTDQ/s400/DSCN3743.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5131384965179462994" /></a><br />It's also the perfect project to break my run of dithering and goof ups. I think I have my mojo back.</div><div><br /></div><div>I have too many UFO's lying about, both sewing and knitting. I generally can't start up any new projects when there are too many other ones left abandoned, but then I get snitty about finishing up the ones that are getting in the way. I've crafted myself into a corner. But one FO really gets me motivated.</div><div><br /></div><div>In knitting, I'm almost done with my Central Park Hoodie and then I'll finish up Connor's cardigan. Which will leave me free to stop buying yarn and knit some goodies up.</div><div><br /></div><div>In sewing, oyyy! I have three pieces undone; two of them unloved, the third a coat for Connor. The coat is easy and if I finish that, I can think clearly about the other two - whether to pitch them or finish them.</div><div><br /></div><div>Motivation. I need motivation.<br /><div> </div><div><br /></div></div>touranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073772107145934302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33729061.post-23877848540412444092007-09-07T15:39:00.000-06:002007-09-07T16:03:45.036-06:00My Own Private AzkahbanTwo weeks dreading, two weeks visiting, two weeks unravelling - that's the cost of visiting my parents. I'm not sure how after 37 years, time alone with them can still cause such despair, but it does.<br /><br />Anyway, I've spent the last two weeks eating chocolate and compulsively shopping, so all is well again. Enough grumping!<br /><br />And, I'm sewing again. Something simple, but pretty, a last hurrah for the end of summer:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc1WofpD7T6kqwhkkOc-H08HWOrqdqbqafIZjLw55QKotqoQOWDYfzheI4fsBJ0BuAfzAaPCUJ6mrxQDLpQM7eA9ab224rfNiRFdg0GYxb4zxJj7FccF1dS4axRw6wjybFVTk5ow/s1600-h/000001548683.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc1WofpD7T6kqwhkkOc-H08HWOrqdqbqafIZjLw55QKotqoQOWDYfzheI4fsBJ0BuAfzAaPCUJ6mrxQDLpQM7eA9ab224rfNiRFdg0GYxb4zxJj7FccF1dS4axRw6wjybFVTk5ow/s400/000001548683.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5107583563167811890" border="0" /></a>The dress is the designer exclusive from <a href="http://www.burdamode.com/Exclusive_Design,1270777-1463237-1503695-1503704-1503909,enEN.html">Burda's 06/2007 issue, #139</a>, and the fabric is an Alexander Henry print, "Pink Bird Seed":<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV0_tSJyc8_u-arEDMLI5z1u9U5nNp1O2x7JfMDR4qTRUoYnHe-iCl7j7NSsWVBzOoa0_JXZHRS2KbSKkf4wlYTakFHcADBtlyEOveTRbO94f_nAwJYZ2oqVGnV9obi0PMiPLjeQ/s1600-h/birdseedpink350.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV0_tSJyc8_u-arEDMLI5z1u9U5nNp1O2x7JfMDR4qTRUoYnHe-iCl7j7NSsWVBzOoa0_JXZHRS2KbSKkf4wlYTakFHcADBtlyEOveTRbO94f_nAwJYZ2oqVGnV9obi0PMiPLjeQ/s400/birdseedpink350.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5107583417138923810" border="0" /></a><br />It' s a little hefty for the pattern, which is for batiste (lightweight cotton), but it's such a happy print, I couldn't resist. It's my second time making clothes from quilting cotton, the first being a wrap A-line skirt. Honestly it feels odd - I'm neither in my 20's, nor have a <a href="http://www.dressaday.com/dressaday.html">kooky sense of style</a>, so I don't know if I can pull it off.touranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073772107145934302noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33729061.post-89182465138190341482007-08-07T11:04:00.000-06:002007-08-07T11:33:19.025-06:002 Burda Dresses & TTFN<span style="font-weight: bold;">Burda 5/07 - 123 Dress</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTUI602XfNu_PEhi1w5IGOk5pM6kMWoqEO0pd-mbAFOe2JW4QpK_ZTOCYFnBXeLip3SwDxRe8CedTfKr61KB3tFfF-F68pKSAd0GCdRFWoG_9I-dechauifGhXcMthMIfO_TxftA/s1600-h/DSCN3406.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTUI602XfNu_PEhi1w5IGOk5pM6kMWoqEO0pd-mbAFOe2JW4QpK_ZTOCYFnBXeLip3SwDxRe8CedTfKr61KB3tFfF-F68pKSAd0GCdRFWoG_9I-dechauifGhXcMthMIfO_TxftA/s400/DSCN3406.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096006435970488402" border="0" /></a><br />This is one of the sleeper <a href="http://www.burdamode.com/Dresses,1270777-1487611-1487615-1487740,enEN.html">dresses</a> from the May issue. It's a simple pattern for wovens, with gathering on the center front bust, side seam bust and along the side fronts, below the shoulders. I opted to use a buttermilk, which made it all so much easier and quicker.<br /><br />The fit is fantastic, it looks stunning and it's very boob enhancing. At under 2 yds of fabric, I'll be making this pattern again and again for sweet little dresses.<br /><br />Size: 44<br />Fabric: Buttermilk from Gorgeous Things<br />Mods: Added a small scootch on the side seams at the bust.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">(Bodice details:)</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBVYA2ghoHM1e3hMduYjtkUolme09-wlZRA02UDzUHtzK4wGbT14ygu3mjZYTrrtaShRLTTUk8zDzg48I5plJbcSPMQXAlXx3U3IEpwUJ-sraHPAoq7x6k4B4Jtpl8wqPh-sOv3Q/s1600-h/DSCN3413.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBVYA2ghoHM1e3hMduYjtkUolme09-wlZRA02UDzUHtzK4wGbT14ygu3mjZYTrrtaShRLTTUk8zDzg48I5plJbcSPMQXAlXx3U3IEpwUJ-sraHPAoq7x6k4B4Jtpl8wqPh-sOv3Q/s400/DSCN3413.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096006444560423010" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Burda 4/07 - 127 Dress</span><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsYlh5p0GRsrwfSc_SmNG28u7S5wdPOoLeeqiuLQ0eX3KfIqdJweM-IDVf9YnzVfhSHicor7urwTVPllfTnVuAkRcAZhO0vx0uNYcYCBsNRBnNTLWemxm035ZEnwcofnIez_qWNg/s1600-h/DSCN3416.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsYlh5p0GRsrwfSc_SmNG28u7S5wdPOoLeeqiuLQ0eX3KfIqdJweM-IDVf9YnzVfhSHicor7urwTVPllfTnVuAkRcAZhO0vx0uNYcYCBsNRBnNTLWemxm035ZEnwcofnIez_qWNg/s400/DSCN3416.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096006856877283442" border="0" /></a>I haven't worn anything so 'precious' since I was 9 or so, but, hey it's red and has 'loves', as my little guy calls them.<br /><br />This is another summer <a href="http://www.burdamode.com/Flower_Power,1270777-1484044-1484046-1484097,enEN.html">dress </a>than I almost overlooked. It's for sheer wovens, with a shoulder yoke, shaped dropped waistline, bias cut skirt and small ruffles along the neckline and yoke. I was going to describe the neckline as rather modest on this, but given I lived on a topless beach for a year, I may be a little skewed.<br /><br />Size: 44<br />Fabric: Heart shaped red borderie from <a href="http://gorgeousthings.com/fabric_store/new.php">Gorgeous Things</a>, lined with batiste (dyed red with Rit).<br />Mods: Lowered the bust dart and added a scootch on the side seam bust. I should have done a proper FBA, but I was in a rush. I also added vertical bust-waist darts after the dress was completed to nip in the front waist more.<br />Verdict: This is a very feminine summer dress and a lot of fun to wear. The ruffles can be omitted, but I found they're rather low-key on this fabric. I'm really enjoying wearing this, although it might be too bright for dear old London.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">(Ruffle detail:)</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqUux58f812LHKKCKhs59BljDS1a01wP1Kli6aZuMy9eaheVFSMoRT6oM0LtyAKG7mtlAi26bsMzWi5cdZv5grUobXzfkQHSqM3YGcm2orT1ImGFLBuwsYfXswyf8vfrrpFex7xA/s1600-h/DSCN3396.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqUux58f812LHKKCKhs59BljDS1a01wP1Kli6aZuMy9eaheVFSMoRT6oM0LtyAKG7mtlAi26bsMzWi5cdZv5grUobXzfkQHSqM3YGcm2orT1ImGFLBuwsYfXswyf8vfrrpFex7xA/s400/DSCN3396.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096006410200684594" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">TTFN</span><br /><br />I'm off to London to visit my parents for two weeks, with a side trip to Paris, to eat crepes with Connor. Given the exchange rate, I'd have to be foolish to buy anything, but the sight seeing is more fun.<br /><br />Have a lovely summer y'all.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span>touranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073772107145934302noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33729061.post-86822675482088809082007-08-02T19:59:00.000-06:002007-08-02T21:34:41.822-06:00Burda July '07 - 115 Pencil SkirtCute, huh? After so many experiments, it's relaxing to make something that I *know* will work on my body. This is a tapered (pencil) skirt, with pockets, panelled back and a surprise in the back. <br /><br />I wouldn't usually wear a top tucked in, but I wanted to show how high the waist comes on this <a href="http://www.burdamode.com/City,1270777-1000019-1508211-1508215-1508278,deDE.html">skirt</a>.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFVe7mBLA1pCiKKOjvIPt9SsqvuYxBvwM_6pKnlg9W3OHp7iSxn18HAxbFdR7AQ9dZeoB02SU6oICCFs0Vu2H7VN-bbTaw2qsWBWCDnNpQRwsv-Q5Z7nc0gK5d11r2Rt1-1ecLHQ/s1600-h/DSCN3344.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFVe7mBLA1pCiKKOjvIPt9SsqvuYxBvwM_6pKnlg9W3OHp7iSxn18HAxbFdR7AQ9dZeoB02SU6oICCFs0Vu2H7VN-bbTaw2qsWBWCDnNpQRwsv-Q5Z7nc0gK5d11r2Rt1-1ecLHQ/s400/DSCN3344.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094289192081430482" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Size</span>: 46<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fabric</span>: Pant-weight cotton/lycra twill from Fabric.com.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mods</span>:<br /><ol><li>Added 0.5" to length at the hem.</li><li>Used waistband instead of waist facing. I typically need to tighten up the waistline on clothes. I stretched out the waistband during stitching to pull the fabric waist in.</li><li>Made a turned up hem instead of fringing it as in the original.</li><li>The skirt has large pockets. These would bulge out because of my large belly, so I faked them. I cut a facing for the pocket opening, sewed and turned. Then I cut a modified pocket piece that didn't include the extra fabric needed for an actual pocket. I topstitched the faced opening onto the pocket itself: <br /></li></ol><span style="font-style: italic;">The wrong side:</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6xjYEyFyMI3TKHMSk-1QYSLznpP-dkpc1cXdk_CZHopBOC7G4zDVg0WLVXsOFJQY9VazPIKyBowbDAQZTkdHZytUV3KjABg4xkPiuSH33UxoPxHlVVrykII5mcqneuOIwZmlwvA/s1600-h/DSCN3337.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6xjYEyFyMI3TKHMSk-1QYSLznpP-dkpc1cXdk_CZHopBOC7G4zDVg0WLVXsOFJQY9VazPIKyBowbDAQZTkdHZytUV3KjABg4xkPiuSH33UxoPxHlVVrykII5mcqneuOIwZmlwvA/s400/DSCN3337.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094289230736136194" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Finished pocket from the right side:</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPuqF3P-Zz-JZq4h2f7pH0DSgkU_Gk-hUKXiGqsa3XRaRIRFOd5MsUmTY7x0D7sHUSWWlYnEVoRr1U1C848qGSUCTKQdrDqP2FB0_2Wd2yW-3rxXHYkWPOiPEHMws8f4jL-gG9cQ/s1600-h/DSCN3349.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPuqF3P-Zz-JZq4h2f7pH0DSgkU_Gk-hUKXiGqsa3XRaRIRFOd5MsUmTY7x0D7sHUSWWlYnEVoRr1U1C848qGSUCTKQdrDqP2FB0_2Wd2yW-3rxXHYkWPOiPEHMws8f4jL-gG9cQ/s400/DSCN3349.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094289217851234290" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Surprise</span>: This isn't shown online, but the back has three panels and the center panel is gathered at around the back of the knee. This has two effects: first, it accentuates the pencil silhouette; and, second, it cups the tushy. In fact, it makes my tush look a lot more wonderous than it is. I can't get a picture of it on me, and sorry for the wrinklies, but this is the back:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA6YUFMXSuqv_KpaYdPLJUqPocVDjzLHxU7srxhansLbb_ZkoKS0K7W9_FptXmVoMh3zyoTtetX_-lLHzR41KOj3UDMMiHawcVKqu3V2NyWZkvRik2MQ8DavbOk48s-sDwUSKKdg/s1600-h/DSCN3355.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA6YUFMXSuqv_KpaYdPLJUqPocVDjzLHxU7srxhansLbb_ZkoKS0K7W9_FptXmVoMh3zyoTtetX_-lLHzR41KOj3UDMMiHawcVKqu3V2NyWZkvRik2MQ8DavbOk48s-sDwUSKKdg/s400/DSCN3355.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094295067596691474" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Cons</span>: <br /><ol><li>Because of the high waist, you need to fit the waist very well. I could have done better fitting for my sway back, but it gets hidden by my tops.</li><li>The side seams are to the front on this skirt, and I'm not sure if it's intentional or not. Given the pocket style, I think it's poor drafting. I've never had this problem on a size 46 before. So sew-er, beware.</li></ol><br />I did finish this in July, which makes for two patterns from the issue in the current month. Yay for me.touranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073772107145934302noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33729061.post-14527661825223778682007-07-26T15:26:00.000-06:002007-07-26T15:54:33.620-06:00Norah Gaughan - Jatta BagFelted knitting always struck as me as a willful pursuit of destruction. Now, I get it. It is such a rush to stick a piece of knitting in hot water and squeeze the life out of it. Look what happens:<br /><br />Before, 21" x 13"<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr7Vsgr4Jl9qL7eeMVRkISEU3bQu6kmaElcWi834S_TD24IvSDr6WtLR3jwvEiNAvM21g5h_PLNC-bj-PcF2oT5FcPQafPww-YyXakBpqBlaRp6ZjU1QnJJ9hCVe1Bd4v6rdSXPw/s1600-h/DSCN3311-1.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr7Vsgr4Jl9qL7eeMVRkISEU3bQu6kmaElcWi834S_TD24IvSDr6WtLR3jwvEiNAvM21g5h_PLNC-bj-PcF2oT5FcPQafPww-YyXakBpqBlaRp6ZjU1QnJJ9hCVe1Bd4v6rdSXPw/s400/DSCN3311-1.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5091625410966458338" border="0" /></a><br /><br />After, 14" x 7"<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnSx5lMGd2QJWEJXEF8KEzKjf20tiGGCv4ts-Vpa-KJhXrFUXFOH21ntrDZ0X2h_IsT7kOVVz3C6eaKEUhPiEJJOhhU7MkzhRDsCr7LX2m6O6ck5DnYGkH7bZuiJf6JeOsOFV-VA/s1600-h/DSCN3323-1.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnSx5lMGd2QJWEJXEF8KEzKjf20tiGGCv4ts-Vpa-KJhXrFUXFOH21ntrDZ0X2h_IsT7kOVVz3C6eaKEUhPiEJJOhhU7MkzhRDsCr7LX2m6O6ck5DnYGkH7bZuiJf6JeOsOFV-VA/s400/DSCN3323-1.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5091622760971636674" border="0" /></a><br />The fabric has become spongy and heavy, it's all really quite beautiful. <br /><br />Changes:<br />Yarn substituted with <a href="http://www.elann.com/productdisp.asp?NAME=elann%2Ecom+Peruvian+Sierra+Aran&Cat=NEW&ProductType=5&Count=3">Elann Peruvian Sierra Aran</a>. I didn't swatch and mine is bigger than the design specs.<br />I backstitched the two pieces RS together.<br />When it came to the bottom stair stepped shape, I just stitched on a curve, to make a more pleasing line.<br /><br />The pattern is sewn WS together and I don't know how you would deal with the square step corners or if they would "disappear" during felting.<br /><br />Next, I'm going to try a different felting technique on it. Inspired by this lovely Japanese felting book/magazine:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRS3PFm7K3KhIrnZB_-RytPwJ8qRy11LoTPu9b2Nf0HIfzWGjk1A96S2hxyOf9EyYFL-6xHiLegL8hNsFX-S3TbvZDHD6OQk_-3L9xwpQunL6TFnllmub2nDQ4MIDCorjeKw9beA/s1600-h/DSCN3324.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRS3PFm7K3KhIrnZB_-RytPwJ8qRy11LoTPu9b2Nf0HIfzWGjk1A96S2hxyOf9EyYFL-6xHiLegL8hNsFX-S3TbvZDHD6OQk_-3L9xwpQunL6TFnllmub2nDQ4MIDCorjeKw9beA/s400/DSCN3324.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5091623684389605330" border="0" /></a><br />I'm going to needle punch circles along the bottom, as in the cover picture. And then, line it and find handles.<br /><br />This is the <a href="http://www.berroco.com/ng1/ng1_jatta_pv.html">original</a> by Ms. Gaughan:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhExdyYlO6z-n3ipcj82Mx60aA2QN6BwBzdAgeqXsarzqcaRipzC1xoNZP3mPmrz5xZNIOz8QbRKnoBt_QBjPeihqbDRl3a0H__7SVNPeolcA9T4lUk2KHUDYVd7-Nt-0Z9EN9Q5g/s1600-h/ng1_jatta_op.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhExdyYlO6z-n3ipcj82Mx60aA2QN6BwBzdAgeqXsarzqcaRipzC1xoNZP3mPmrz5xZNIOz8QbRKnoBt_QBjPeihqbDRl3a0H__7SVNPeolcA9T4lUk2KHUDYVd7-Nt-0Z9EN9Q5g/s400/ng1_jatta_op.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5091621639985172386" border="0" /></a>I have a serious knitting crush on her. You know how some designers just move you with their work? Her work has re-oriented my perspective on knitted fabric.touranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11073772107145934302noreply@blogger.com2