tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19778205042610723492023-11-16T06:01:40.305-08:00Mercier Knitting PatternsJosiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15816867427426238114noreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1977820504261072349.post-45544005368275286672015-10-26T12:37:00.000-07:002015-11-09T11:25:00.491-08:00Mitten Pattern Collection Giveaway!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczwZS7bdm_iDAdjANqf5SizmKWcAyMA9xe5CiegH5kVlv53FGzIvyQ_AyAz8xNnC9WtmP5Pb5sCJ_0JFGeUTOesyHpD2HN2fGeSGXmBqOxCCJDlb0St0iq7DYDMSODLpK-fygMyJFl6GL/s1600/frost-and-twilight-mitts_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczwZS7bdm_iDAdjANqf5SizmKWcAyMA9xe5CiegH5kVlv53FGzIvyQ_AyAz8xNnC9WtmP5Pb5sCJ_0JFGeUTOesyHpD2HN2fGeSGXmBqOxCCJDlb0St0iq7DYDMSODLpK-fygMyJFl6GL/s320/frost-and-twilight-mitts_medium2.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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I've designed a mitten pattern for the lovely Canadian yarn and pattern company, <a href="http://www.sweetpaprikadesigns.com/" target="_blank">Sweet Paprika Designs</a>. My mitts, seen above, are the Frost and Twilight mitts.<br />
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From the website:<br />
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This mitten pattern is designed for the coldest of winter days. These
mitts are knit using a simple four row slip-stitch pattern that creates a
fantastically thick, squooshy fabric. Worked in worsted weight yarn
they are a quick knit, and are sized for both children and adults so you
can make a pair for everyone in the family.</blockquote>
To celebrate the release of the mitten collection, Sweet Paprika has generously provided me with a copy of the collection to give away - all eight patterns included!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU1lH91o7Xf21CkACxxULod5UJXyj5RgaAjftq6fHRGPsjL67ZBcZg8AzmvcAgz8GnGvvG6I90_Fj0QFlwo501zRurR14gkP4LUJZi2e4j3Sfvt7Tz9LcjMw7tG0PIMFoC1ft41kSNGBxL/s1600/PicMonkey+Collagesmaller.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU1lH91o7Xf21CkACxxULod5UJXyj5RgaAjftq6fHRGPsjL67ZBcZg8AzmvcAgz8GnGvvG6I90_Fj0QFlwo501zRurR14gkP4LUJZi2e4j3Sfvt7Tz9LcjMw7tG0PIMFoC1ft41kSNGBxL/s320/PicMonkey+Collagesmaller.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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If you'd like to enter for a chance to win a copy of this mitten collection, please leave me a comment with your contact information, such as your Ravelry username. I'll randomly choose from among the comments on Friday, November 6th.<br />
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Good luck!<br />
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All photos are courtesy of Sweet Paprika Designs<br />
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UPDATE: The winner is... Knittoc! Congratulations! We've been in touch on Ravelry and I hope you are enjoying your new mitten pattern collection.</div>
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Everyone, thanks for entering, and the mitten patterns in the collection are still available in a bundle or individually at <a href="http://www.sweetpaprikadesigns.com/" target="_blank">Sweet Paprika Designs</a>.</div>
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Josiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15816867427426238114noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1977820504261072349.post-11776314379588538952014-06-19T09:47:00.000-07:002014-06-19T09:47:34.583-07:00Spring 2014 UpdateLots of things have been happening here this spring, but unfortunately, I just can't show you very much of it yet! Suffice to say that I'll have lots of things to show off this fall. I have had a record number of submissions in the last few months, and I have been working hard to meet all my deadlines.<br />
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I have managed to sneak in a little personal knitting here and there. I finished the plain blue socks that I showed in the last post (which are now happily living in my son's sock drawer), and progress continues on the orange modified St. Brigid. I've also started another plain pair of socks, because I always like to have at least one pair on the go.<br />
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After the last project went off in the mail this month, I organized my yarn stash. For far too long, I have been pulling out the odd ball of yarn or two, then stuffing it back into the most convenient bag or box. Needless to say, it's been getting gradually more difficult to find anything in there. I recently took a couple of hours and took<i> everything</i> out. I dusted out the yarn closet, put matching yarns together, and sorted the odds and ends by fiber. I took out some things that didn't belong there (wine corks? A curtain tie?) and gave a bunch of yarn scraps to my 4-year old to snip, tie, and tape to her heart's content.<br />
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My next project is another submission, followed by some work on a couple of patterns that I want to self-publish. I'm trying not to over-book myself though, since there are only a few days left in the school year before the kids are home with me for the summer. They will be the priority for the next couple of months!<br />
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<br />Josiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15816867427426238114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1977820504261072349.post-88782216170636131332014-03-03T12:15:00.000-08:002014-03-03T12:16:19.618-08:00January-February UpdateJanuary and February were fairly quiet for me knit-wise. Winter with two kids in school took a lot more of my energy than I was expecting, especially considering that we got (no kidding) 5 feet of snow in the last 2 months. The kids were getting some excellent use out of their knitwear during all the shovelling and car clearing time outside. My son even took his favourite knit hat on his first-ever ski trip last week!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view from my back deck during a snowstorm. The lump on the right is the BBQ.</td></tr>
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I did work on a bunch of designs to submit to various publications. I got a "no" this week, but it was only a day after getting a "yes" from another magazine, which helped to keep it in perspective.<br />
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For personal knitting, I've been picking away at a very plain pair of socks, and a very complicated sweater. <br />
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In January, a small yarn and fabric shop opened up one block from my house. I found a small selection of decent sock yarn, but almost all of it was shockingly vibrant. This is the most subdued colorway I could find. I'm keeping the notes for this sock on the ball band. I don't know why I have never thought of this before. I know the format for my plain toe-up socks quite well and only need to record how many stitches to cast on, how many rows to make the foot, how many rows of ribbing I did at the cuff, etc. and this information doesn't really take up much room at all. The first sock is finished and the second is past the heel.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvLy_gGzOfABchv1-oETMwu7x5jgt0z3pEEKHjPl35gzg5eeAfwM8asbqo8e73tbzu5x4Zs7rvx-T_qTj5r_2boG6gXkH_qnapbXkt9DV31rXf9KWqSIvAy-XmgZRuwgephuIueDtdwYxw/s1600/IMG_3229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvLy_gGzOfABchv1-oETMwu7x5jgt0z3pEEKHjPl35gzg5eeAfwM8asbqo8e73tbzu5x4Zs7rvx-T_qTj5r_2boG6gXkH_qnapbXkt9DV31rXf9KWqSIvAy-XmgZRuwgephuIueDtdwYxw/s1600/IMG_3229.JPG" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
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This orange sweater is a tweaked version of Alice Starmore's gorgeous St. Brigid pattern from her classic book "Aran Knitting". This was the first "real" knitting book I ever got, and I never grew out of it the way I did with some other books that I acquired during my early knitting years.<br />
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I am modifying the pattern to use thinner yarn, add waist shaping, change the neckband, add ribbing to the hems and cuffs, omit the fringe, and turn it into a cardigan. But other than that, it's exactly as written ;) Here's the back up to the end of the waist decreases.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge5qmXLw3SEmd70228jBQd48dOhUI0C834v9n2D2uXgyzMRUaf0m7YuGm7LMg_ImzRcn6Xw84DyVkMrkv6ZpJva7oHN5v8IiqKpcGxRaCqhVzojUX-HFFudm0Cx6f2BHSzzcHjknKG_Lri/s1600/IMG_3221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge5qmXLw3SEmd70228jBQd48dOhUI0C834v9n2D2uXgyzMRUaf0m7YuGm7LMg_ImzRcn6Xw84DyVkMrkv6ZpJva7oHN5v8IiqKpcGxRaCqhVzojUX-HFFudm0Cx6f2BHSzzcHjknKG_Lri/s1600/IMG_3221.JPG" height="379" width="640" /></a></div>
I made a trip to a larger, out-of-town yarn shop just last week and bought some gorgeous yarn that I can't find here in town. I only bought one ball of each, as I just plan to use it for swatching. I can't wait to try out the fantastically soft and fuzzy pale blue angora! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCJwD8boyyR0ztNf6upYZyLzT7EKTTS5edFZMZBKQJcATnSCHGA0v3zV4f37SqEUl0Ck45hVhl0-EKvxsN9LtxnZ9QAwxJ-7wZt-l3QsRQ_XPqOfzgP-V18___rQ6M6lIZgDq6JZMzvalH/s1600/IMG_3222.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCJwD8boyyR0ztNf6upYZyLzT7EKTTS5edFZMZBKQJcATnSCHGA0v3zV4f37SqEUl0Ck45hVhl0-EKvxsN9LtxnZ9QAwxJ-7wZt-l3QsRQ_XPqOfzgP-V18___rQ6M6lIZgDq6JZMzvalH/s1600/IMG_3222.JPG" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Josiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15816867427426238114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1977820504261072349.post-75379526821631038422013-12-21T09:35:00.000-08:002013-12-21T09:35:51.028-08:00November-December Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
November seems to have gotten away from me - whoops! </div>
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I had two patterns published in November, both of which are especially exciting for me. The first was the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/anarchist-2" target="_blank">Anarchist Socks</a>, published in the Subversive Socks book from Cooperative Press. This is my first time being published in an actual book, and I love the idea of subversive knitting.</div>
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My other pattern published in November was <a href="http://www.twistcollective.com/collection/component/content/article/136-shop/winter-2013-patterns/1654-ephyra-by-josie-mercier" target="_blank">Ephyra</a>, which was published in the Winter 2013 issue of Twist. I have long been a fan of Twist and am delighted to be included in this gorgeous issue.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3bIn4_UtfffelhwVPZgVXXf2lPHjWfFENIPREMNg67gMYiWUHb-DuRa_WBwW5XmUqxHZE67BmK7uNvSdBqRVVwmvhkPh3pG0ddsVixxpcdJt9Lx1dj7KAU5YKakkQwbSx5AGr0sDXQ_PK/s1600/ephyra_z_500_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3bIn4_UtfffelhwVPZgVXXf2lPHjWfFENIPREMNg67gMYiWUHb-DuRa_WBwW5XmUqxHZE67BmK7uNvSdBqRVVwmvhkPh3pG0ddsVixxpcdJt9Lx1dj7KAU5YKakkQwbSx5AGr0sDXQ_PK/s320/ephyra_z_500_medium2.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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I don't generally knit for Christmas, but my son's class was fundraising for a trip to the theater and requested Christmas ornaments to sell, so I made this little guy from the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/tiny-sock-monkey" target="_blank">Tiny Sock Monkey</a> pattern by Mary Kate Long.<br />
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He took longer than I expected to make -perhaps 3 or 4 hours- and I couldn't bring myself to donate him to sell for only $2 (and the kids and I agreed that we really wanted to keep it), so he's now hanging on my tree.</div>
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Instead, I made a mini stocking from sock yarn. The kids had trouble parting with that, too, so I made them each their own mini stocking and duplicate-stitched their initials on the side.</div>
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I also finished my daughter's <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/hermione-hearts-ron" target="_blank">Hermione</a> hat that I started back in October.<br />
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My favourite part of this hat is the liner. It is recycled angora (probably 70% angora and 30% acrylic) held double and worked in a slip-stitch pattern so that there are *four* strands of yarn lining the hat. This plus the recycled pink lambswool exterior makes for a very warm hat. Since the first half of December has been spectacularly cold here in Ontario, my daughter has been getting lots of wear out of this hat. </div>
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I also had three (!) small patterns accepted for publication next fall, and I'm working away at meeting the January deadline for these. </div>
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<br />Josiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15816867427426238114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1977820504261072349.post-60644177412674654632013-11-18T13:49:00.003-08:002013-11-22T10:08:05.539-08:00Subversive Socks - Anarchist <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Cooperative Press has released a new book entitled "Subversive Socks" that turns the notion that knitting socks is boring or sedate on its head. Imagine the inner smugness one would feel when secretly wearing knitted curse words under one's shoes, or knitting socks that reveal a secret message when viewed from just the right angle.</div>
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I'm happy to be a part of this book with my pattern, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/anarchist-2" target="_blank">Anarchist</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFCU5iZJw1c0-xsFUtYrBza6ApylM3jc_PBpo9erB3FoQMgK_xTxk3CAvhHVzsgGq2Fen_x8Z7as3_k8kf0Fsrt6iPzdVpRchnI9l8ZWfUX7UkUx2wozTry9BEw1AlTxhR9R-95om11zeg/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFCU5iZJw1c0-xsFUtYrBza6ApylM3jc_PBpo9erB3FoQMgK_xTxk3CAvhHVzsgGq2Fen_x8Z7as3_k8kf0Fsrt6iPzdVpRchnI9l8ZWfUX7UkUx2wozTry9BEw1AlTxhR9R-95om11zeg/s320/1.jpg" width="306" /></a></div>
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Subvert the boot-heel of oppression by wearing the Anarchy symbol on your sock heel. Thick and thin stripes alternate along the leg and foot of the sock. The heel features a stranded color-work Anarchy emblem on the heel flap.</blockquote>
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The sock are knit using two 50-g skeins of Western Sky Knits Aspen Sock (100% superwash merino) on US size 1.5 / 2.25 mm needles, and the pattern is written for three sock sizes.<br />
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I especially enjoyed the irony of being sent yarn to knit subversive socks in my old high school colours. <br />
<br />
The book is available as a digital download from either <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/subversive-socks" target="_blank">Ravelry</a> or <a href="https://www.cooperativepress.com/products-page/books/subversive-socks/" target="_blank">Cooperative Press</a>, and will be available in print next month.Josiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15816867427426238114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1977820504261072349.post-59178306051087348972013-10-28T14:34:00.000-07:002013-10-28T14:34:26.157-07:00October UpdateIt's feeling like fall here in Southern Ontario. It's sweater weather again, and there has been frost on the ground a few mornings lately, which meant it was time to go through all our warm outdoor clothing. Hats have been found, mittens have been matched up, and boots have been labeled with everyone's names. <br />
<br />
My daughter has grown out of her favourite knitted hat (a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/hermione-hearts-ron" target="_blank">Ron Hearts Hermione</a> lace-and-cable hat in pale pink lambswool), but the matching mitts still fit, so I'm working on making her a replacement hat one size larger from the same yarn. <br />
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I've also been working on a few submissions for magazines. One proposed project had me pulling out my smallest needles - 1.5 mm (that's three zeroes in US sizing). I've been wanting to try them out since I bought the needles months ago, but didn't quite know what to do with them. Inspiration struck, and I pulled out my embroidery thread to knit up a teeny-tiny project. It was incredibly slow going at first, but I enjoyed the challenge and, with the help of some good, strong lighting, got into the groove after the first few rows.<br />
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As well, I have two cabled sweaters, one women's and one girl's, that I plan to self-publish shortly. They are both achingly close to ready for test-knitting. Both sweaters are knit, photographed, and written up in one size. All that is left to do is the grading!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitHOIknp37xr9Q2u7FX2wqgph-0qMJgFxpxGnaTpHyd0lKVBGkS8gzz2__qmE0Ea4W4G09_bx3Wum64UcEqum85_Ct88FqB10vdmeP9lKwQZOpz7jdj9AoZePjxgtxAMeqS7X6tPijUakf/s1600/IMG_2390_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitHOIknp37xr9Q2u7FX2wqgph-0qMJgFxpxGnaTpHyd0lKVBGkS8gzz2__qmE0Ea4W4G09_bx3Wum64UcEqum85_Ct88FqB10vdmeP9lKwQZOpz7jdj9AoZePjxgtxAMeqS7X6tPijUakf/s320/IMG_2390_edited.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I was delighted to notice that one of my sweaters recently made an appearance in the Interweave Knits blog. Last week, Lisa Schroyer wrote about <a href="http://www.knittingdaily.com/blogs/knits/archive/2013/10/22/how-to-adjust-sleeve-caps-in-a-set-in-sweater.aspx" target="_blank">adjusting sleeve caps</a> when customizing the fit of a sweater, and used her most recent project - my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/fabrication-pullover" target="_blank">Fabrication pullover</a> from the Fall 2013 issue of Knitscene - as her example! Josiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15816867427426238114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1977820504261072349.post-73659545994027715292013-10-22T12:58:00.002-07:002013-10-22T12:58:49.914-07:00My Mountain - Three Free Hat Patterns<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>Spiral Path Beret</strong></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKZj2azau1No8ixV8_L0nWts-uvqDAoBOfVlncjZybpUKarEqiTNSiYks_WxDS8z071jwMSNcp0_yrsK3j3r760ISLnb32tUR_PXmi1eJexKY2bdnPlf4AHHXGsEOdUrBK5jza7-C_4xcP/s1600/beret3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKZj2azau1No8ixV8_L0nWts-uvqDAoBOfVlncjZybpUKarEqiTNSiYks_WxDS8z071jwMSNcp0_yrsK3j3r760ISLnb32tUR_PXmi1eJexKY2bdnPlf4AHHXGsEOdUrBK5jza7-C_4xcP/s320/beret3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Finished Size: 18.5 (21.5)" band circumference</div>
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Materials:<br />
Yarn: Schachenmayr Original Boston (70% acrylic, 30% wool; 60 yd [55 m]/50 g), #00047 "Lavendel", 2 balls<br />
Needles: US Size 11 / 8.0 mm dpns and US Size 10 / 6.0 mm dpns or circular needle<br />
Gauge 12 stitches and 14 rows = 4" in stockinette stitch </div>
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Instructions</div>
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Cast on 8 stitches.</div>
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Round 1: k.</div>
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Round 2: [k1, yo] 8 times - 16 sts.<br />
Round 3 and all odd-numbered rounds: k.</div>
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Round 4: [k2, yo] 8 times - 24 sts.<br />
Round 6: [k3, yo] 8 times - 32 sts.<br />
Round 8: [k4, yo] 8 times - 40 sts.<br />
Round 10: [k5, yo] 8 times - 48 sts.<br />
Round 12: [k6, yo] 8 times - 56 sts.<br />
Round 14: [k7, yo] 8 times - 64 sts.<br />
Round 16: [k8, yo] 8 times - 72 sts.<br />
Round 18: [k9, yo] 8 times - 80 sts.<br />
21.5" size only: Round 20: [k10, yo] 8 times - 88 sts.<br />
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Knit 3 rounds even.<br />
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Dec round 1: [k 8 (9), k2tog] 8 times - 80 (72) sts.</div>
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Dec round 2: k.</div>
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Dec round 3: [k 7 (8), k2tog] 8 times - 72 (64) sts.<br />
Dec round 4 and all even-numbered rounds: k.<br />
Dec round 5: [k 6 (7), k2tog] 8 times - 64 (56) sts.<br />
21.5" size only: Dec round 7: [k 7 (8), k2tog] 8 times - 64) sts.</div>
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Work 1 round even. Using smaller needles, work in k1, p1 ribbing for 6 rows. Bind off. Weave in all ends.</div>
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<strong>Embarrassingly Easy Hat</strong> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw5T5XAnK7nEWGJoK_1UTmlJl2xpfmrdWtpE8GqhVOOKCK1eFAgkWEro4QsoVMN5_pf-rvhPrQlVrj2xjkXWkK3r_hD85IJ7f0_XeyPS_9Fql9tdyTkXtB1SAoMlCLOfPE7k1fAGgQh7zv/s1600/easy+hat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw5T5XAnK7nEWGJoK_1UTmlJl2xpfmrdWtpE8GqhVOOKCK1eFAgkWEro4QsoVMN5_pf-rvhPrQlVrj2xjkXWkK3r_hD85IJ7f0_XeyPS_9Fql9tdyTkXtB1SAoMlCLOfPE7k1fAGgQh7zv/s320/easy+hat.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Size: Child (Woman, Man), shown in Child's size.<br />
Finished Size: 18 (20, 22)" head circumference<br />
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Materials<br />
Yarn: Schachenmayr Original Lumio (91% acrylic, 9% polyester; 82 yd [75 m]/150 g), #00022 "Lime", 1 ball<br />
Needles: US 15 / 10 mm<br />
Darning Needle<br />
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Gauge 8 stitches and 12 rows = 4" in garter stitch<br />
Note: the same gauge may be reached by knitting with three strands of worsted-weight yarn held together<br />
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Instructions<br />
Cast on 18 (20, 22). Knit every row until piece measures 14 (15, 16)" from cast-on edge. Bind off.<br />
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Tassel (make 2): cut 3 24" strands of yarn. Fold in half. Separate into three two-strand sections and braid yarn. Tie end tightly.<br />
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Finishing<br />
Fold in half so that cast-on edge and bind-off edge are touching and sew side seams. Sew tassels to upper corners. Weave in all ends.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT6V0b-DxVkchH2Eoa_iPffNY5KnQbQbKuBSfrlesjI0yTRz4yk8O1hQGWnql2rBtEA1FL8QMxNZjk_RTpYOohPR-mjpIyr5mlJ5c7vHaSEYKnwdBDGpoUpwscpauGDf04XfZiq2qV5Jr_/s1600/IMG_1917.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT6V0b-DxVkchH2Eoa_iPffNY5KnQbQbKuBSfrlesjI0yTRz4yk8O1hQGWnql2rBtEA1FL8QMxNZjk_RTpYOohPR-mjpIyr5mlJ5c7vHaSEYKnwdBDGpoUpwscpauGDf04XfZiq2qV5Jr_/s320/IMG_1917.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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<strong>Shine On Beanie</strong></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgvqM46MUR-WibbG83Sh0xNpkS8ZE6DVFnkcpPZLWULcoxb-sIL0SnFFb5vZ8LHFLzY2e3tUAe4ZJxFrqJZIW5r6Q_dExqZCzP2utGhDE-7sLFpebyDZ16PuCmOKehK0itjOUpBBc8ICNr/s1600/hat8_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgvqM46MUR-WibbG83Sh0xNpkS8ZE6DVFnkcpPZLWULcoxb-sIL0SnFFb5vZ8LHFLzY2e3tUAe4ZJxFrqJZIW5r6Q_dExqZCzP2utGhDE-7sLFpebyDZ16PuCmOKehK0itjOUpBBc8ICNr/s320/hat8_edited.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="en-US">Sizes:
20 (22)" hat circumference; </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="en-US">shown
in size 20”</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">Materials:</span></span><br />
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">Yarn:
</span></span><br />
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">-Main Colour: Bravo Big (100% acrylic; 127 yd [120 m]/200 g): </span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">#00150
Indigo, 1 skein</span></span><br />
-Contrast Colour: Schachenmayr Original Lumio (91% acrylic, 9% polyester; 82 yd [75 m]/150 g), #00022 "Lime", 1 ball<br />
<br />
Needles: US Size 15 / 10.0 mm needles and <span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">US Size 11 / 8.0 mm needles</span></span><br />
Darning needle<br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">Gauge
8 sts and 12 rows = 4" in garter stitch on larger needles</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">Note: </span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">This
hat is worked flat from the bottom up.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">Hat</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">With
smaller needles, cast on 40 (46) stitches. Row 1 (right side): *k1,
p1, repeat from * to end of row. Row 2 (wrong side) *k1, p1, repeat
from * to end of row. Repeat previous two rows once more.</span></span></div>
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<div lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">Next
row (right side): 20" size only: using larger needles, knit
across. 22" size only: using larger needles, k1, k2tog, knit
across. There are now 40 (45) sts. Work 3 more rows in stockinette stitch.</span></span></div>
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<div lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">Begin
chart (right side): k 15 (18), work row 1 of chart across next 9 sts,
k to end of row. Work through all rows of chart. Work even until
piece measures 7 (7.5)" from cast-on edge, ending with a wrong side row.</span></span></div>
<br />
Shape crown:<br />
Row 1: (k3, k2tog) across - 32 (36) sts.<br />
Row 2: (p2tog, p2) across - 24 (27) sts.<br />
Row 3: (k1, k2tog) across - 16 (18) sts.<br />
Row 4: p2tog across - 8 (9) sts.<br />
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Break yarn and pull through all remaining stitches. <br />
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Finishing<br />
Cut 1.5 yd of contrast colour. Find the gray reflective thread and gently unwind it from the main strand of yarn. If the reflective thread curls when separated, pass it through boiling water or steam to relax the thread. Using the photos as a guide, thread darning needle with reflective thread and embroider lines radiating out from the star. Sew seam up back of hat. Weave in all ends.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwvLsiMbI5p-ZSHSHy7pTM9gugQ4cN0JSuwPGIHnR-f6hdZO_3D4wqLePrDO6ETLfrU-vfGy_93dsE6SY7MlQCXhs-Otfj87_lqHMtMgo7Lll1VJStOmzsaNIaJC8dXwr3pb8DoAec0zQR/s1600/hat10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwvLsiMbI5p-ZSHSHy7pTM9gugQ4cN0JSuwPGIHnR-f6hdZO_3D4wqLePrDO6ETLfrU-vfGy_93dsE6SY7MlQCXhs-Otfj87_lqHMtMgo7Lll1VJStOmzsaNIaJC8dXwr3pb8DoAec0zQR/s200/hat10.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<br />Josiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15816867427426238114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1977820504261072349.post-34058678099045531712013-09-30T08:12:00.001-07:002013-09-30T08:12:09.665-07:00September Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
September is here, which is a very exciting time for knitters. Fall fairs are popping up all over the place, and outdoor events are the perfect occasion for pulling your favourite wooly sweaters out of summer storage. For some of us, the kids are going back to school, which for me means more knitting time. And as the weather turns cooler, gift knitters start thinking about getting ready for the holidays.</div>
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Interweave Knits has published their annual <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/interweave-knits-holiday-gifts-2013" target="_blank">Holiday Gifts</a> issue, and I'm happy to have contributed two patterns to this lovely issue.</div>
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The <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/beekeeper-slouch" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2288bb;">Beekeeper'sSlouch</span></a> is a worsted-weigh hat with a honeycomb cabled brim that is knit flat, then joined with three buttons. The top of the hat is picked up and worked vertically in stockinette stitch.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY5Obnyk_TTtEhSRCMNZKWr_mI70khfMyyerq5U6sECOiS14qXgv64f9Hk6RoQSx7RAaqWKTt63EMB_FsB0N9g7624dF31cRGGyu41y-lOHFid-PveOy0V4RqFZERP71SzlzESWe-BQDQd/s1600/Mercier-BeekeeperMAIN_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY5Obnyk_TTtEhSRCMNZKWr_mI70khfMyyerq5U6sECOiS14qXgv64f9Hk6RoQSx7RAaqWKTt63EMB_FsB0N9g7624dF31cRGGyu41y-lOHFid-PveOy0V4RqFZERP71SzlzESWe-BQDQd/s320/Mercier-BeekeeperMAIN_medium2.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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The <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/everstar-scarf" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2288bb;">Everstar Scarf</span></a> features a variety of six-stranded cable charts to keep the knitting interesting from start to finish. It is also worked in a heavy worsted weight wool yarn. This was originally named the Many Paths scarf (though I love the name Everstar), and I imagined it being an appropriate gift for someone with whom you have walked many paths over the years.</div>
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This month, I finished up a sweater in a gorgeous rich, deep purple yarn and sent it on its way to be photographed. I'm looking forward to showing the rest of the garment when the pattern is released, which might be as soon as next month.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/25188559@N05/10020683026/" title="IMG_2043_edited_edited by pibble959, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_2043_edited_edited" height="240" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7318/10020683026_bddce6862a_m.jpg" width="209" /></a></div>
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September 22nd is<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hobbit_Day" target="_blank"> Hobbit Day</a>, which was celebrated at our house by watching The Fellowship of the Rings for the eleventy-millionth time. I had a sale to mark the occasion, which I forgot to post about here, so I am extending the sale. </div>
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Use the code HOBBIT2013 to get 22% off any of my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/hobbit-knits" target="_blank">Hobbit Knits</a> patterns on Ravelry until October 14th! You do not need to be a member of Ravelry to purchase patterns from the site.</div>
Josiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15816867427426238114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1977820504261072349.post-26940897961063843422013-08-30T09:56:00.000-07:002013-08-30T10:06:45.312-07:00Interweave Knits Holiday Gifts 2013 - Beekeeper's Slouch and Everstar Scarf<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have two more patterns out this month
in the 2013 issue of <a href="http://www.interweavestore.com/interweave-knits-gifts-2013" target="_blank">Interweave Knits Holiday Gifts</a>! </div>
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The <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/beekeeper-slouch" target="_blank">Beekeeper'sSlouch</a> is a worsted-weigh hat with a honeycomb cabled brim that is
knit flat, then joined with three buttons. The top of the hat is
picked up and worked vertically in stockinette stitch.
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The <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/everstar-scarf" target="_blank">Everstar Scarf</a> features a variety
of six-stranded cable charts to keep the knitting interesting from
start to finish. It is also worked in a heavy worsted weight wool yarn. This was originally named the Many Paths scarf
(though I love the name Everstar), and I imagined it being an
appropriate gift for someone with whom you have walked many paths
over the years.<br />
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<br />Josiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15816867427426238114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1977820504261072349.post-63808161208461958362013-08-20T13:31:00.000-07:002013-08-30T10:08:31.578-07:00My Mountain Hat Design Contest - Spiral Path Beret, Shine On Beanie, and Embarrassingly Easy Hat<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To celebrate the North American release of their My Mountain line of yarns, Schachenmayr is having a <a href="http://us.schachenmayr.com/designer-contest" target="_blank">design contest</a>. Contestants are invited to design a hat using one of the big, rugged, out-door inspired My Mountain yarns. The company was gracious enough to send me yarn to make two different hats to enter in the contest.<br />
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<strong>Spiral Path</strong></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1xr-Bw1vDXwpvfIQxDg0lKx4SLbwC8YZVFj-8F84Xn9KUSSYZ6HsBPR2IPw6r9qZWpmRITKdOe61ka4dsIPbss46CPsj12sDfweF8L1MI3Lwf2ggfr3BHKiOwOHgir51IQZOTvSD40fwU/s1600/beret5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1xr-Bw1vDXwpvfIQxDg0lKx4SLbwC8YZVFj-8F84Xn9KUSSYZ6HsBPR2IPw6r9qZWpmRITKdOe61ka4dsIPbss46CPsj12sDfweF8L1MI3Lwf2ggfr3BHKiOwOHgir51IQZOTvSD40fwU/s320/beret5.jpg" height="320" width="319" /></a></div>
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There seems to be a spiral path going around my mountain, on which I come to the same issues again and again, but at a different level. Sharing, caring for myself, setting goals, and grappling with the expectations of others are all vistas from different sides of my mountain, but they mean different things at the elevation of a child, teenager, young wife, and now as a mother.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid6THD-yc77xNrx3LB7IIzjHw0AyYptmKadf7vl_mVF36CLTi37bua-wzgHZSAuh1i66q2WZiAB_lIyWOeof9pryehP4Tc2cOd2bo4YehYBOUCdL0xpUInt9wMP6KueCM_lL2YH6j1VeaT/s1600/IMG_1707_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid6THD-yc77xNrx3LB7IIzjHw0AyYptmKadf7vl_mVF36CLTi37bua-wzgHZSAuh1i66q2WZiAB_lIyWOeof9pryehP4Tc2cOd2bo4YehYBOUCdL0xpUInt9wMP6KueCM_lL2YH6j1VeaT/s1600/IMG_1707_edited.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a>Another thing I keep happily returning to is purple, like the pretty purple shade of Boston (70% acrylic, 30% wool, 12 sts/4" on 8.0 mm needles) used for this slouchy beret featuring a spiral lace pattern.<br />
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<strong></strong><br />
<strong>Shine On</strong></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisGxMaDde-lS8_YySB_GJR1qPAVxZIPMdL4Uu1jRiDYhlJb95XgBV5pDp_5RNV_mTjgAJ3mXPncFP90REHnwKKDBfFbB97y6RJ5NhGUI1-0dZPJN6XTe8zl134laIdQToHGh4UUylRTVTR/s1600/hat8_edited_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisGxMaDde-lS8_YySB_GJR1qPAVxZIPMdL4Uu1jRiDYhlJb95XgBV5pDp_5RNV_mTjgAJ3mXPncFP90REHnwKKDBfFbB97y6RJ5NhGUI1-0dZPJN6XTe8zl134laIdQToHGh4UUylRTVTR/s320/hat8_edited_edited.jpg" height="320" width="319" /></a></div>
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One of my mountains is sleep. I am seeing far too much of the stars these days; first late at night, and then again before dawn the next morning. While I miss getting enough sleep, I do enjoy getting to see so much of the stars, like the one on the front of the Shine On beanie.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmL_GOWFfHONqCSsUDNkXcUacFGjdyiEwxkOP15nObLlSZAuh2Wv9aHy8DvQXxhD7YC-Jq8HfEQu_UT8-z-79VYSl-teUdnHybHu1fyBr7SFYiDRATANMEOdDQ9BnmfJ0mXiHcwTV7EwTC/s1600/hat10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmL_GOWFfHONqCSsUDNkXcUacFGjdyiEwxkOP15nObLlSZAuh2Wv9aHy8DvQXxhD7YC-Jq8HfEQu_UT8-z-79VYSl-teUdnHybHu1fyBr7SFYiDRATANMEOdDQ9BnmfJ0mXiHcwTV7EwTC/s1600/hat10.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a><br />
This hat is knit in Bravo Big (100% acrylic, 8 sts/4" on 10.0 mm needles) in a deep, indigo blue and has an intarsia star worked in a neon yellow shade of Lumio. The "shine" around the star is worked with the reflective thread untwisted from a strand of Lumio.</div>
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<strong>Embarrassingly Easy Hat</strong></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoXkthnrmfBRsBiNBlmJNTHw_oRjDoOmF8u435MqBRI5o8VsOCCocFwlk7RM8oGXXQd57aCgYjL0xBImAtirjoyu0rrqVdhAbEDu0xoJBoMuhNpxIhJBqV3A-9s1eovR8xP2FOKsTewIU2/s1600/easy+hat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoXkthnrmfBRsBiNBlmJNTHw_oRjDoOmF8u435MqBRI5o8VsOCCocFwlk7RM8oGXXQd57aCgYjL0xBImAtirjoyu0rrqVdhAbEDu0xoJBoMuhNpxIhJBqV3A-9s1eovR8xP2FOKsTewIU2/s320/easy+hat.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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The skein of Lumio was so generously
sized that I had more than enough left over from the Shine On hat to
make this quick little hat for my daughter. This has is, as the name
suggests, embarrassingly easy to knit. In fact, I finished most of
this hat early one morning in the short time before the kids woke up. </div>
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I love a good, complicated knitting pattern, but when the climb up my own particular mountain gets particularly tough, I'm a sucker for a super-simple knit. This hat is
composed of a long rectangle that is folded in half, then sewn down
the sides. Braided tassels are sewn to the top corners for a little
extra swing. <br /><br />Patterns for all three hats are coming soon!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg7ZsUoD7rd2hWSvF3NHlks9vZCJ92QdJvorwEhmL2oTnAPeA6QLIKL5T6JzixlV8RGLhFTJ6kFi6cKky-nEUe5VA1TKKKAJJ8nHioemMw79dDJnOL4gIGa_bQSFV37Cxj-BqZLAdNMv7q/s1600/IMG_1917.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg7ZsUoD7rd2hWSvF3NHlks9vZCJ92QdJvorwEhmL2oTnAPeA6QLIKL5T6JzixlV8RGLhFTJ6kFi6cKky-nEUe5VA1TKKKAJJ8nHioemMw79dDJnOL4gIGa_bQSFV37Cxj-BqZLAdNMv7q/s1600/IMG_1917.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
Josiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15816867427426238114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1977820504261072349.post-15105245657648892202013-08-20T12:49:00.002-07:002013-08-20T12:49:44.152-07:00August Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Summer is zipping by here and the unseasonably cool and non-sticky weather here in Ontario over the past few weeks has meant plenty of comfortable and pleasant knitting time.<br /><br /> So what have I been up to? I've had two patterns published recently, both in The Unofficial Harry Potter Knits, a special magazine from Interweave Press. It has already hit the newsstands in some areas, and is already available for digital download in the U.S. Unfortunately, it is not available for sale outside of the US due to copyright complications. Nevertheless, I am thrilled to have been a part of this issue.<br /><br /> My Severus Pullover was inspired by what Professor Severus Snape might wear if it became necessary for him to wear Muggle clothes. You can read more about this pattern <a href="http://mercierknittingpatterns.blogspot.ca/2013/08/the-unofficial-harry-potter-knits.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjvbvB40j4eA6E3M3Z0-0LAnXUEpthMHFcBqsYMYzZ_E50BtZ8LqBhA1FNnePPMOuN0iVAK1JP70D0BBXQVK7JHO8LYaWea6bDFsauve6vXVQ0x_yiw4LsqIO_AoCDdHh0cgGc4ShELJgJ/s1600/severus4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjvbvB40j4eA6E3M3Z0-0LAnXUEpthMHFcBqsYMYzZ_E50BtZ8LqBhA1FNnePPMOuN0iVAK1JP70D0BBXQVK7JHO8LYaWea6bDFsauve6vXVQ0x_yiw4LsqIO_AoCDdHh0cgGc4ShELJgJ/s320/severus4.png" width="287" /></a></div>
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My second pattern included in this magazine is the Dumbledore's Warm Socks pattern, inspired by the scene in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (Bloomsbury, 1997) in which Dumbledore laments that he has once again received books for Christmas, when what he really wanted was a pair of warm, woollen socks. You can read more about this pattern <a href="http://mercierknittingpatterns.blogspot.ca/2013/08/the-unofficial-harry-potter-knits.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVVwiXsruAi5Eem-q1P6JnqGuqLTcwdyGffYhs0l8i_PtRczn0M5DfYcPQpTYnmoUyVxx1cVVL7VLOBr9re-0nfv5rZwjgbeMRmzaHKtvzW-ZB_RNbsMmR8qJfha8t7YEQ8F5QJ2lEF1kc/s1600/dumbledore2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVVwiXsruAi5Eem-q1P6JnqGuqLTcwdyGffYhs0l8i_PtRczn0M5DfYcPQpTYnmoUyVxx1cVVL7VLOBr9re-0nfv5rZwjgbeMRmzaHKtvzW-ZB_RNbsMmR8qJfha8t7YEQ8F5QJ2lEF1kc/s320/dumbledore2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />While knitting up Dumbledore's Warm Socks, my three-year old daughter looked carefully at my work in progress, then announced "Mommy, you are making socks." I told her that yes, I was making socks.<br />"Are they for you?" she asked.<br />"No, these socks are for Dumbledore," I replied. She thought about this for a minute, then her eyes went wide with delight.<br />"Dumbledore is coming to our house!" she said, excitedly. I had a hard time breaking it to her that no, Dumbledore was not coming to our house, but that I was going to mail the socks to "Dumbledore" far away.<br /><br /> This month, I've been working away on a sweater for an online magazine, which I can't talk about too much just yet. I'll post this small teaser photo and just say that yes, the yarn is every bit as soft and smooshy and delicious as it looks in the photo.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzWp4BJi0HiudoURqbzz4g-Drw34tH_2Umd5fg17SSChED9R8Yn7NQ7L4Vzo74ih1Nv_lYzqHTDRgMLmRaoVrRyeDh2RCp5W0dMSg4_NNYZ-ueE9yyOqLzZ5Qgxhr4yToFkxT6_V7X9Sz8/s1600/IMG_1416_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzWp4BJi0HiudoURqbzz4g-Drw34tH_2Umd5fg17SSChED9R8Yn7NQ7L4Vzo74ih1Nv_lYzqHTDRgMLmRaoVrRyeDh2RCp5W0dMSg4_NNYZ-ueE9yyOqLzZ5Qgxhr4yToFkxT6_V7X9Sz8/s320/IMG_1416_edited.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /><br /> I've also been having fun catching up on <a href="http://thefiberfactor.com/" target="_blank">The Fibre Factor</a> while I knit. I've just finished watching all the videos for Challenge 2, in which the designers must use colorwork on a big, boxy sweater, and am seriously impressed with the creativity, skill, and speed of all the competitors. I love watching them describe their design process and am feeling seriously inspired by all the stories, photos and places that the designers used as their own inspiration.</div>
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<br />Josiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15816867427426238114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1977820504261072349.post-8774227322687048472013-08-06T16:10:00.000-07:002013-08-06T16:10:27.432-07:00The Unofficial Harry Potter Knits - Severus Pullover and Dumbledore's Warm Socks
I am really excited about getting to be
a part of <a href="http://www.interweavestore.com/the-unofficial-harry-potter-knits-2013" target="_blank">The Unofficial Harry Potter Knits</a> issue from Interweave
this summer. I've been a fan of Harry since the first movie came out,
and worked my way through the books starting when my son was old
enough to read chapter books.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/25188559@N05/9320877732/" title="severus2 by pibble959, on Flickr"><img alt="severus2" height="500" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2876/9320877732_ac7fab710b.jpg" width="438" /></a><br />
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My <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/severus-pullover" target="_blank">Severus Pullover</a> is inspired by what
Professor Severus Snape might wear if it became necessary for him to
wear Muggle clothes, such as for a covert mission for The Order of
the Phoenix. Since he often had to wear poor-fitting clothes as a
child, the adult Snape owns only a small number of garments that are
excellently fitted and of top quality.<br />
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The Severus pullover features a central
column of off-set cables reminiscent of flickering flames, flanked by
narrow, serpentine cables. The sleeves feature the same serpentine
cable, which travels the length of the sleeve and forms a saddle
shoulder. Snape is often described as sweeping “bat-like” through
Hogwarts in his wizard’s robes, so the sleeves of the Severus
pullover are minimally tapered, as Snape does not care for
restrictive sleeves.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/25188559@N05/9318087281/" title="dumbledore2 by pibble959, on Flickr"><img alt="dumbledore2" height="402" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5544/9318087281_877cf0be43.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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My second project included in this
magazine are <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/dumbledores-warm-socks" target="_blank">Dumbledore's Warm Socks</a>. Dumbledore’s Warm socks are
designed especially for spending long hours in ancient, drafty
castles. They are worked primarily in a specked rib pattern, whose
heavy texture promises warm feet. Near the top of the sock, the
initials “A P W B D” - for Albus Percival Wulfric Brian
Dumbledore - are worked across the front of the sock in contrast
colour using duplicate stitch on a back-ground of stockinette-stitch
squares fitted neatly into the specked rib pattern.<br />
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In "Harry Potter and the
Philosopher's Stone," Dumbledore laments that he has once again
received books for Christmas when what he longed for was a pair of
thick, woollen socks. He never again mentions this desire in any of
the books.
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This is thanks to a conversation
between Harry and Mrs. Weasley the summer after second year. After a
day of buying school supplies in Diagon Alley, Harry has dinner with
the Weasley family at The Leaky Cauldron. Conversation turned to
Harry's recent release of Dobby the elf via the gift of a sock. They
begin talking about the value of a good pair of socks and Harry
casually mentions what Dumbledore told him in front of the Mirror of
Erised. Mrs. Weasley, overcome with gratitude to Harry, who, with the
assistance of Dumbledore, has recently saved Ginny in the Chamber of
Secrets, vows to include Dumbledore in her Christmas knitting and to
keep him well supplied with woollen socks every year.</div>
Josiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15816867427426238114noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1977820504261072349.post-81158839214627112532013-07-10T05:00:00.001-07:002013-07-10T05:00:39.188-07:00Fabrication Pullover<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/25188559@N05/9255565610/" title="Fabrication-Pullover.jpg-500x375 by pibble959, on Flickr"><img alt="Fabrication-Pullover.jpg-500x375" height="375" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7289/9255565610_1e9789a7bb.jpg" width="284" /></a>
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<br />
The<a href="http://www.knittingdaily.com/blogs/knitscenemagazine/archive/2013/06/04/knitscene-fall-2013.aspx" target="_blank"> Fall 2013 issue of Knitscene</a> magazine arrived in my mailbox yesterday, and included my <a href="http://www.knittingdaily.com/media/p/109924.aspx" target="_blank">Fabrication Pullover</a>.<br />
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The pullover is part of the Mock Cables section of the magazine and uses lace panels to give the impression of cables without ever twisting a stitch. The large central braided lace panel is from the book "The Knitter's Guide to Stitch" by the always inspiring stitch designer <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/annie-maloney--friends" target="_blank">Annie Maloney</a>. <br />
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I'm quite happy with the finished sweater, but it is coloured in my memory by a frustrating experience knitting up the sucker. The lace pattern is not difficult, but I was not sleeping well at the time that I knit up the sample and had trouble remembering the pattern. It was a "two steps forward, one step back" process every time I noticed an error and ripped back to correct it. Bonus points to anyone who ignores the mistake I missed on the back of the sweater! I'm so embarrassed that it slipped my notice and ended up being photographed. Ah, well, lesson learned: photograph the finished garment (or even better, the garment pieces before sewing them up) and let the camera spot errors that I miss in person.Josiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15816867427426238114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1977820504261072349.post-16015659308827799152013-05-18T09:59:00.000-07:002013-05-18T10:02:53.763-07:00Chloe's Vest - Interweave Knits Spring 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm a bit slow in posting about this pattern, but it is in no way a sign of being indifferent about the pattern. In fact, being included in this publication was something I've been imagining for a very long time.</div>
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My<a href="http://i'm%20a%20bit%20slow%20in%20posting%20about%20this%20pattern,%20but%20it%20is%20in%20no%20way%20a%20sign%20of%20being%20indifferent%20about%20the%20pattern.%20in%20fact,%20i%20realized%20a%20long-time%20dream%20when%20this%20pattern%20was%20published./" target="_blank"> Chloe's Vest</a> was included in the Spring 2013 issue of Interweave Knits!<br />
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From the magazine: </div>
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"A simply shaped sweater vest is dolled up with a delicate lace inset. Vest is knit in three pieces with the inset worked from the center out."</blockquote>
The main portion of the vest is worked using two strands of fingering-weight yarn held together while the delicate lace inset is worked using only a single strand. The pattern is written for 34 (38, 42, 46, 50)" bust circumference and is shown in the 34" size, modelled with minimal ease.<br />
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<br />Josiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15816867427426238114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1977820504261072349.post-23091182401455984132013-03-17T13:08:00.000-07:002013-03-17T13:08:06.889-07:00Salacia Cardigan<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/25188559@N05/8565407763/" title="Salacia-Cardigan_jpg-500x375 by pibble959, on Flickr"><img alt="Salacia-Cardigan_jpg-500x375" height="240" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8100/8565407763_1c34e0e15b_m.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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I am delighted that my <a href="http://www.knittingdaily.com/media/p/104995.aspx" target="_blank">Salacia cardigan</a> was included in the <a href="http://www.knittingdaily.com/blogs/knitscenemagazine/archive/2013/01/07/knitscene-spring-2013.aspx" target="_blank">Spring 2013 issue of Knitscene</a> magazine! <br />
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This little cardigan was designed to create an hourglass shape with the biased lace changing direction at the waistline, cinched with a drawstring tie. The cardigan is knit using Valley Yarns Longmeadow (60% cotton, 40% microfiber; 117 yd [107 m]/50 g) at a gauge of 18 sts and 32 rows = 4" in left-slanting lace patt. The pattern includes sizes 34½ (38, 42, 45½, 49, 52½)" bust circumference.<br />
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The front cardigan edges are trimmed with faux i-cord slipped stitches. The modified v-neck follows the bias of the lace before cutting straight back to the shoulder. The hem and sleeve cuffs are trimmed with reverse-stockinette stitch which rolls neatly to the back of the work. The short sleeves end mid-bicep and are worked in an all-over eyelet pattern.<br />
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The top is designed to be worn with about 2" of positive ease and ends just above the hip. <br />
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The Salacia was a fun knit for me. Everything just seemed to fall into place with this pattern, and it slid easily off my needles with very little of the fussing and adjusting that often comes with knitting up the first sample for a design.Josiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15816867427426238114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1977820504261072349.post-74931067428733107112012-12-14T11:26:00.000-08:002012-12-31T18:24:21.423-08:00Hobbit Knits - A Collection of Hobbit-Inspired Knitting Patterns<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am thrilled to announce the release of "Hobbit Knits - A Collection of Hobbit-Inspired Knitting Patterns".</div>
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<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8204/8272149187_8c3317c796_m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="PicMonkey Collage22" border="0" height="240" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8204/8272149187_8c3317c796_m.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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The eBook contains five patterns, each inspired by a different scene from "The Hobbit". </div>
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The "Pony Rides in May Sunshine" fingerless mitts are inspired by the beginning of Bilbo's long journey during which he finds adventures to be quite pleasant. When the travelling becomes more difficult later on, he laments that adventures are not all "pony rides in May sunshine". The mitts feature a cabled cuff and are knit from a cheerful, rustic DK-weight yarn, and are designed to protect one's hands during a long day of holding the reins of a pony.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/25188559@N05/7275613866/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="SAM_1619 by pibble959, on Flickr"><img alt="SAM_1619" height="224" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7104/7275613866_b8838f80d2_m.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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The Elvish Singing Shawlette is inspired by the warm welcome given to Bilbo and his companions one warm June evening as he and his companions approach the Elvish outpost of Rivendell. This delicate lace shawlette is knit from a single ball of sock yarn.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/25188559@N05/7351464668/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="SAM_1755 - Copy by pibble959, on Flickr"><img alt="SAM_1755 - Copy" height="240" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8014/7351464668_3493611680_m.jpg" width="235" /><br />
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The Pocketses Vest is inspired by a Hobbit's waistcoat, with a double breast to display plenty of nice brass buttons, as well as two small pockets, just large enough for concealing a magical ring. It is knit primarily in stockinette stitch using worsted-weight wool.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/25188559@N05/8167885224/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Pocketse side view by pibble959, on Flickr"><img alt="Pocketse side view" height="240" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7273/8167885224_c4747c3362_m.jpg" width="184" /></a></div>
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The Mirkwood Satchel features a sturdy linen-stitch body and a long, cabled strap. It also has a cabled pocket on the side and is closed with a zipper. This bag came to mind when reading about Bilbo and his companions needing to carry weeks worth of food and water on their trek through the gloomy, unwholesome Mirkwood forest.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/25188559@N05/8199854433/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="SAM_2140 by pibble959, on Flickr"><img alt="SAM_2140" height="240" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8481/8199854433_8ee08783f9_m.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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The Beorn Cardigan had a cabled waistband, from which the upper and lower body are picked up and knit. This heavily cabled cardigan is inspired by the wide fireplaces, large mugs of mead, and toast with butter and honey that welcomed Bilbo and Gandalf on their journey home when the visited their friend, Beorn, at Yuletide.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/25188559@N05/8150424214/" title="SAM_2087a by pibble959, on Flickr"><img alt="SAM_2087a" height="240" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8193/8150424214_b8ccf5b53b_m.jpg" width="178" /></a><br />
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All patterns are available for sale individually in my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/mercier-knitting-patterns" target="_blank">Ravelry shop</a>. As well, the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/hobbit-knits" target="_blank">entire collection</a> can be purchased at a discounted price - just click the "Buy Now" button below to be taken to Ravelry. You do not have to be a member of Ravelry to buy patterns from their site.<br />
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<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/purchase/josie-mercier-designs/130724"><img border="0" src="http://www.ravelry.com/images/shopping/buy-now.gif" /></a>
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The patterns are also available in my <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/user/483784/pattern-store" target="_blank">Craftsy pattern store</a>, as well as in my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/SarcasticStitches" target="_blank">Etsy Shop</a>.<br />
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I hope you enjoy browsing and knitting these patterns as much as I enjoyed designing them. <span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT;">After all, "If more of us valued food and cheer and song* above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.”</span><br />
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*And knitting, I would add.<br />
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<strong>The Giveaway!</strong><br />
I have a copy of the Hobbit Knits collection to give away! This contest is open to anyone, in any country, until Dec 30, 2012. Please leave me a comment and include your contact information, such as an email address or Ravelry ID. <br />
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<strong>UPDATE:</strong> Some people have had trouble leaving a comment on this blog. You may also enter the contest by emailing me your contact info at SarcasticStitches AT gmail DOT com, or by sending me a message on Ravelry. Sorry for the inconvenience!<br />
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What is your favorite scene from "The Hobbit"? Did you first read the book as a child or as an adult?<br />
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UPDATE Dec 30, 2012 - Congratulations to the winner of the eBook, Unwindle! I have gifted you the book on Ravelry. Thanks to everyone who entered the contest!<br />
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<br />Josiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15816867427426238114noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1977820504261072349.post-1641427365811999532012-12-05T09:09:00.000-08:002012-12-05T09:12:27.024-08:00Imbolc Pullover - Winter 2012 Knitscene!<span style="font-family: Times-Bold, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I
am delighted to have my <a href="http://www.knittingdaily.com/media/p/101892.aspx" target="_blank">Imbolc</a> pullover included in the <a href="http://www.interweavestore.com/Knitting/Magazines/Knitscene-Winter-2012.html" target="_blank">Winter 2012</a>
issue of Knitscene!</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/25188559@N05/8085873032/" title="5824_Knitscene-07-12-Winter-0187_jpg-550x0 by pibble959, on Flickr"><img alt="5824_Knitscene-07-12-Winter-0187_jpg-550x0" height="327" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8472/8085873032_21f7401d15.jpg" width="490" /></a>
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<span style="font-family: Times-Bold, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">This
pullover features two sunburst-like lace hexagons inset into the
sweater so that they wrap around the ribs at the left and right sides
of the pullover, creating waist definition. Each hexagon is knit from
the center out and bound off. The front and back are each knit flat
to the bottom of the hexagon inset, at which point stitches are bound
off at each side. The pieces are shaped to accommodate the hexagon
inset, after which more stitches are cast on and the front and back
pieces are worked to the shoulders. The sweater has a feminine deep U
neckline. The cuffs, hem and neckline are trimmed in tidy 1x1
ribbing.</span></span></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/25188559@N05/8085874537/" title="5417_Knitscene-07-12-Winter-0177_jpg-550x0 by pibble959, on Flickr"><img alt="5417_Knitscene-07-12-Winter-0177_jpg-550x0" height="490" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8328/8085874537_1ab509bd7a.jpg" width="367" /></a>
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<span style="font-family: Times-Bold, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">The
sample was knit in the gloriously soft yarn from The Fibre Company
called Road to China Light (65% alpaca, 15% silk, 10% camel, 10%
cashmere; 159 yd [145 m]/50 g). I used 3.5mm needles and got a gauge
of 25 sts and 32 rows to 4".</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times-Bold, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">As
the circumference of the hexagon inset is 27", an optional
co-ordinating tam can easily be made by knitting two inches of
stockinette stitch around the outer edge of a third hexagon, followed
by decrease rows to reduce the circumference to 22", and ending
with two inches of ribbing. </span></span>
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<div align="LEFT" style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Times-Bold, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">While
winter days start to get longer after the Winter Solstice in late
December, the sun's strength doesn't noticeably return until early
February, which is celebrated as the Irish festival of Imbolc, which
derives its name from the ancient Irish <i>i mbolg</i>, meaning "in
the belly", referencing the newly-pregnant ewes. The two
sunbursts reference the "doubling" of the strength of the
sun, as well as the date of Imbolc, which falls on February 2nd:
02/02.</span></span></div>
Josiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15816867427426238114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1977820504261072349.post-57343639804457273712012-11-15T14:37:00.004-08:002012-11-15T14:37:36.679-08:00Amma's Scarf - Canadian Cancer Society FundraiserI am happy to announce the release of a very special pattern!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/25188559@N05/8188374553/" title="This One Too by pibble959, on Flickr"><img alt="This One Too" height="248" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8201/8188374553_ec0a2ee056_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>
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The "Amma's Scarf" was designed for my mother in honor of her 65th birthday. She helped in choosing the yarn and stitch patterns. One-hundred percent of the proceeds from the sale of this scarf pattern will be donated to the <a href="http://www.cancer.ca/">Canadian Cancer Society</a>. This means that the entire purchase price, minus transaction fees, will go towards cancer research and improving the quality of life for cancer patients.<br />
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The scarf features a scalloped lace pattern at the ends, and uses a garter-stitch diamond lace pattern through the body of the scarf to show off the beautiful tonal variations of this variegated yarn. The pattern includes both charted and written directions for the lace patterns. Please note that the yarn used to knit the sample has a lot of drape (think 100% silk or rayon), so if you use a yarn that has more bounce, such as wool or acrylic, you may need more yardage to make a full-length scarf.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/25188559@N05/8189455368/" title="This One by pibble959, on Flickr"><img alt="This One" height="320" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8348/8189455368_607fb20aab_n.jpg" width="262" /></a>
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<strong>Amma’s Story</strong> <br />
When my son was learning to talk, “Grandma” was too much of a mouthful for him, so he dubbed my mother “Amma,” a title she was more than happy to carry. She was delighted to be a grandmother, and even more delighted that she was in such good health that she could enjoy the company of an active toddler.<br />
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Two years prior, I told my mother that I was expecting her first grandchild. Not long after this, she told me that she had breast cancer. She was treated and fully recovered. Five years later, I told her that I was expecting another child. Only weeks later, she told me that she had again been diagnosed with breast cancer. Today, she is once again cancer-free with a good long-term prognosis. Happy Birthday, Mom, and many more to come!<br />
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The pattern is available on <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/115153033/ammas-scarf-knitting-pattern-canadian" target="_blank">Etsy,</a> on <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/pattern/knitting/accessory/ammas-scarf/36620?fresh=true" target="_blank">Craftsy</a> or on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ammas-scarf" target="_blank">Ravelry.</a> You can also purchase the scarf through Ravelry by clicking the button below:<br />
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<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/purchase/josie-mercier-designs/126201"><img border="0" src="http://www.ravelry.com/images/shopping/buy-now.gif" /></a>
Josiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15816867427426238114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1977820504261072349.post-15249154376992069812012-06-05T11:15:00.002-07:002012-06-05T11:15:18.377-07:00Irresponsible Tam<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Movt7jZmR1S0GL8jHlbS9B-EvNvTGCCQeG2LQ9-qRcNecAld7i5GfAhPGVKJdxyMN6VzP8M15-kqqSyNkChQxpgLln1sX4CoQTIn4ZqGdfCeQunDwrLxygBHE5OfcgB4_NcBmwl_gDg0/s1600/Mercier%2520Hat%25201_jpg-550x0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Movt7jZmR1S0GL8jHlbS9B-EvNvTGCCQeG2LQ9-qRcNecAld7i5GfAhPGVKJdxyMN6VzP8M15-kqqSyNkChQxpgLln1sX4CoQTIn4ZqGdfCeQunDwrLxygBHE5OfcgB4_NcBmwl_gDg0/s320/Mercier%2520Hat%25201_jpg-550x0.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I am thrilled to have my Irresponsible Tam included in the special <a href="http://www.interweavestore.com/Knitting/Magazines/Knitscene-Accessories-2012.html">Accessories 2012</a> issue of <a href="http://www.interweavestore.com/Knitting/Magazines/Knitscene.html">Knitscene</a> magazine! I'm honored to be included with such an amazing collection of patterns, especially for my first ever pattern to be published in a conventional print magazine.<br />
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This hat was inspired by those that were popular in the early part of the 20th century. I had a lot of fun browsing through antique knitting and crochet patterns online to find out how the original berets were made (just like today, there's top-down or bottom-up patterns, as well as those knit flat and those knit in the round).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkp1Q893mRuBiWZhEYvK_fbA-ORwFZVByKBDUdAlK0kcTKEcfNuKoOK7SX9Zmom9zSEYoAeVlonZS_D6wJE24dufvEIkoCXYoTMitghv-KQkDQ63ze8EsFt1fuO22GRr-HmTPzKn8sKvuG/s1600/Irresponsible-Tam_jpg-500x375.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkp1Q893mRuBiWZhEYvK_fbA-ORwFZVByKBDUdAlK0kcTKEcfNuKoOK7SX9Zmom9zSEYoAeVlonZS_D6wJE24dufvEIkoCXYoTMitghv-KQkDQ63ze8EsFt1fuO22GRr-HmTPzKn8sKvuG/s320/Irresponsible-Tam_jpg-500x375.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The name of this hat comes from the female love interest in Meredith Nicholson’s 1905 book, “The House of a Thousand Candles”, in which the young heroine wears her jaunty red tam at an “irresponsible tilt”.<br />
<br />The color was inspired by another line from the same book: "There is something jaunty, a suggestion of spirit and independence in a tam-o'-shanter, particularly a red one."<br />
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Photos are courtesy of Knitscene magazine.<br />
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<br /></div>Josiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15816867427426238114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1977820504261072349.post-18797531371514868202012-03-26T09:41:00.002-07:002012-03-26T09:53:12.820-07:00Coffee and Cream Beanie<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5724247323498162722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 262px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPFakKQSwQrIAicNqV1syV1NQFjwApoQbKENNnaaeMb9KYlszs0hF6jLYD-3cUVLi_3ZcPTPvSigHDNlpyV94ntMldh-VccCpXrxPJDwposwjZUVudBnxb2PQVbMc0J6135PVTGsYLYc5B/s320/This+one.JPG" border="0" />I had a lot of fun working up the pattern for this little coffee-themed beanie.<br /><br />One, 100g ball of white yarn is divided into three smaller balls, two of which are dyed with coffee. One ball gets a quick dye in weaker coffee to produce a pale brown, while the other is dyed more slowly in stronger coffee to produce a darker brown shade.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5724247303315562338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 316px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiruDvaOysLZ2fuUvLWvynhk9QtuOrhc4V4gRGS_Bufkl909Zojw_c84YfKjgk8o_RHNSA7eVjzqkYOnp3vemVj64zllT1GdEi8c3-hPPCiNdIpIgQxw3GcAq2lco44IvZJHuMGO8botlFf/s320/SAM_1452.JPG" border="0" /><br />The colorwork pattern is inspired by the swirling shapes made by cream as it is added to a hot cup of fragrant coffee. The white crown of the hat represents the cream; the light and dark brown swirls are the coffee as it mixes with the cream; and the white ribbing at the bottom of the hat represents the thick-walled white ceramic mug holding the coffee.<br /><br />This hat is knit from the bottom up and worked in the round.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5724247315093291474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 239px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5sR3VqEfLau1tHbSd0DTzGyGxoP6ktDLT3XUT3nvy2hRxwfO09YydnYuTbIqFW-ONTGnqYp98yeZYyG-jEKU7IqXqpEIvK-r19GaK-hzJhLEw4H_fdkZYGZCn_9J2rvtUKSCY_xL5xXv-/s320/SAM_1457.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><strong>Sizes: </strong><br /><br /><div>Teen or Small Adult (Medium Adult, Large Adult)<br /><br /><div>To Fit Head Circumference: 20 (22, 24)"/51 (56, 61) cm<br /><br /><div>Finished Hat Circumference:19 (21, 23)"/48 (53, 58.5) cm<br /><br /><div>Finished Length: 8 (8.5, 9)"/20 (21.5, 23) cm<br /><br /><div><br /><strong>Materials: </strong><br /><br /><div>1(1, 1) ball Patons Classic Wool, 100% wool (210 yds/192 m) per 100g/3.5 oz ball) in color 00202 Aran. Divide into three balls: one dyed light brown, one dyed dark brown, and one left undyed. Dyeing instructions are provided at the end of the pattern.</div><br /><br /><div>Note: if you don't wish to dye your own yarn, you can use Patons Classic Wool in the following amounts and colors:25 (27, 30) g of 00202 "Aran" (white)20 (22, 24) g of 77514 "Sesame" (light brown)10 (11, 12) g of 00227 "Taupe" (dark brown)</div><br />US Size 7/4.5 mm dpns<br /><br /><div>US Size 6/4.0mm dpns<br /><br /><div>Darning Needle<br /><br /><div>Stitch marker<br /><br /><div>Mild laundry soap<br /><br /><div><br /><strong>Materials and Equipment For Yarn Dyeing:</strong><br /><br /><div>12 tablespoons instant coffee, divided<br /><br /><div>2 teaspoons alum (available at large grocery stores or bulk food stores)<br /><br /><div>1 teaspoon cream of tartar (available at large grocery stores or bulk food stores)<br /><br /><div>Large pot<br /><br /><div>Microwave and large microwave-safe dish (optional)<br /><br /><div>Measuring spoons and cup<br /><br /><div>Large stir spoon<br /><br /><div>Waste yarn - use smooth, non-felting, pale yarn (white acrylic is ideal)<br /><br /><div>Water<br /><span style="font-size:0;"><br /><br /></span><br /></div><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB8whr4hduWtiPqvUJ_b1O9jn79UeTqmqOxRKWEaBIhlOISxR9aMxiSfbqfdxhUjr14M6Bq44T3gfXpoRhW23zpOkqwBlt-NHY4fdrmaeEOKu_Gh8NSDI6_DwIprNml9XE_pCqahLmUaHu/s1600/SAM_1364.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5724247293095229106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 254px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB8whr4hduWtiPqvUJ_b1O9jn79UeTqmqOxRKWEaBIhlOISxR9aMxiSfbqfdxhUjr14M6Bq44T3gfXpoRhW23zpOkqwBlt-NHY4fdrmaeEOKu_Gh8NSDI6_DwIprNml9XE_pCqahLmUaHu/s320/SAM_1364.JPG" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:0;"><br /></span><br />This pattern is available for sale on Ravelry for $5.00 CAD!<br /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/purchase/josie-mercier-designs/97265"><img src="http://www.ravelry.com/images/shopping/buy-now.gif" border="0" /></a> </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Josiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15816867427426238114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1977820504261072349.post-31587458959910606842012-02-27T06:56:00.002-08:002012-02-27T07:12:06.739-08:00Dubois<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713830479717815730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 229px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-uFs8b7NZvFd61CtA6i4rsCsy4WvSZPuawLkNdssOCDfOFrinLeNtv7j1EPCgGeFiGkH7n8fNQQC9wnWf4Rm1nVE_tLd-Kiuv6sxUxDOOdINOSPeltd71KePMmm6TNsv6AniKv71txUku/s320/This+one.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br />A walk through the woods in the winter requires a good, warm hat. This pattern is for a very warm winter hat made from recycled, left-over or hand-spun yarn. This lined hat is knit from the top down and is suitable for nearly any gauge of yarn.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713830504817362450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7NNhqc9P3FWNlFtBr7E4_Gfb0udv86F-a6WJBJVsoJv5FShZszCGEnXJu4kt-HXfVNNqGRxyCc_7aCBJ-XaL5K-GeC1XJfd3ZpdSJUUd-4DJU0a7AfjcmZLi_DI3IbyoMSj56CtgRIKjz/s320/And+this+one.JPG" border="0" /><br />The main color and contrast color must be knit from yarn approximately the same weight. The liner yarn can be the same weight or a slightly thinner yarn. A liner knit at a slightly loose gauge will still trap plenty of air and be warm to wear. The liner is also an excellent place to use small amounts of warm, luxury yarns, especially those in colors that may not be to your taste.<br /><br /><br />The gray sample hat measures 22" / 56 cm in circumference and was knit on US 8 / 5.0 mm needles using gray 100% lambswool, white 100% wool and green 100% cashmere, all of which were recycled from thrift store sweaters.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713830517573214674" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 222px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzB1OHOy4pxTZPBwYs_CVdiCMxhHr6Kt3AnFNeDODKYiq6HtO4AwYF-4swVvjx_am5NWfyO1kcHnxzCqbEYnA8veJAk88kiEAMkhKX9VQp5akMJUjSMEVEveCUSouCJYhaevCDUNK2pXQb/s320/SAM_0876.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br />The white and pink sample hat measures 18" / 46 cm in circumference and was knit on US 2 / 2.75 mm needles using 1 50g ball of Patons Kroy Sock yarn (75% wool, 25% acrylic), 14 g of unknown variegated sock yarn (100% acrylic), and about 20 g of recycled 100% cashmere.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmSzBmZmDL2vqukEU5FNOrVhN37E7qrDhwRyqD3KWHXqhCzwMFwaoeL8m3m_Jc_DhaI2TKxYdf2YsHdGzV9qNi1pBFDUSkmz4L9zO8IW23VYiXReTdzHu3dEZE_-tr23_yJtpws2T7-y5F/s1600/and+this+one+too.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713830515733298322" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmSzBmZmDL2vqukEU5FNOrVhN37E7qrDhwRyqD3KWHXqhCzwMFwaoeL8m3m_Jc_DhaI2TKxYdf2YsHdGzV9qNi1pBFDUSkmz4L9zO8IW23VYiXReTdzHu3dEZE_-tr23_yJtpws2T7-y5F/s320/and+this+one+too.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div>The PDF pattern for this hat is available for sale on Ravelry for $4.50!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/purchase/josie-mercier-designs/85972"><img src="http://www.ravelry.com/images/shopping/buy-now.gif" border="0" /></a></div></div>Josiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15816867427426238114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1977820504261072349.post-44438484333352534802012-02-08T04:19:00.000-08:002012-02-09T06:31:42.850-08:00Thousand Kisses Socks<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizZ4l1w3joZ8n10CqaZL5TmhSbggwEZueOK585WQc9ec6qnXHkxoVvEy9Ot16ClEknpKnuguLkIeSfU28i4Q8IFwSAuNd0iLNmjoekT6JCSbjl7a2yCIZ2FlBRnqIAEuHMEMeVEEpWlkPD/s1600/SAM_0931.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706740063442109458" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizZ4l1w3joZ8n10CqaZL5TmhSbggwEZueOK585WQc9ec6qnXHkxoVvEy9Ot16ClEknpKnuguLkIeSfU28i4Q8IFwSAuNd0iLNmjoekT6JCSbjl7a2yCIZ2FlBRnqIAEuHMEMeVEEpWlkPD/s320/SAM_0931.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div>I am very excited to be a part of the <a href="http://petitepurls.com/Winter12/index.html">Winter 2012 issue of Petite Purls </a>magazine! My <a href="http://petitepurls.com/Winter12/winter2012_p_thousandkisses.html">Thousand Kisses</a> socks are included in this issue, along with many other great patterns, all of which are available at the <a href="http://petitepurls.com/">Petite Purls website </a>for free!<br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706740079818663330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_8k6yQMc34YB7z7jYkE0vO0Bq0WVKOWlBpstc8xim1DwbAVBAqTm4D2FBdyOJBuVNSO1aCk6RA3pTsOu9sNupWJdRf0T7T3KJOtPUrqtaaTlbdwukUSybnCg6j42pUYkoPZ6s_CvxdcNn/s320/SAM_1083.JPG" border="0" /> <span><br />These socks were inspired by the pair that I made my older child for his first day of school. Because I had been a stay-at-home mom for his entire life, he had never gone to daycare or had any experience with long, regular separations from home and family, so the transition to full-day, every-other-day kindergarten was wrapped in some anxiety for both of us.<br /><br /><br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:0;"><br /><p></span></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706740056285207378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 314px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpvbsRVKO06HGLb3hHmaugunNQSNt8UR08yLUu7-v_x0FTdQ-RxWAn_hDpTApOrR1fl39-Q9Fl5wxmJxmgSBQIQJsvC4auO4OhVyh8ptQZ2YFkf8QEf3ENhyuXTwdmhDJgQcIcYdOTx19B/s320/SAM_0853.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><p>In the weeks leading up to The Big Day, I made a special pair of socks for my son. Surrounding the top of the socks was a band of traditional Fair Isle OXO motifs, but I explained to him that they were hugs and kisses. When he started to tear up in the back of his kindergarten classroom as I tried to make my way to the door, I put some extra hugs and kisses into <span>my hand and patted them into his socks. After that, he was (mostly) ok.<br /><br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:0;"></span><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706740039869841154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5t-3_3S4zpik2cUpzXzNIppYX6pS8LKe11YFmwm4JwC05v6e3Y2b3a6jRRrykYWrguX0b1t1SIBG57PTx2iu3U0uYaqXfmRp9IVSse71qt9mGarZnlGUkQWPOJ3nyoMARz9md_-HfH8JA/s320/SAM_1057.JPG" border="0" /><span style="font-size:0;"></span></p><br /><br /><p>The sock pattern on the Petite Purls website is the expanded and updated version of that original pair, which were long ago worn through and outgrown. I was even fortunate enough to <span>be able to make a second pair for my younger child, and plan on making her another pair for when she starts Kindergarten in 573 more days...but who's counting?<br /><br />The name of these socks was inspired by the thousands of stitches (kisses) in each</span> sock, as well as by the Leonard Cohen song called "<a href="http://itunes.apple.com/ca/album/ten-new-songs/id192832007">A Thousand Kisses Deep</a>."<span>Like most Leonard Cohen songs, I love it to bits, but get the feeling that I'm missing a layer or six of the meaning that he's written into the lyrics. My take on it is summed up at the end of the second verse:<br /><br />And maybe I had miles to drive,<br />And promises to keep:<br />You ditch it all to stay alive<br />A thousand kisses deep<br /><br />This, to me, speaks to the bittersweet feeling that many parents, especially stay-a-home parents, have that the sacrifices involved in child raising have diverted them from the path they imagined for themselves, but are surprised to find themselves a thousand kisses deeply in love with their children and with life as a parent. It may be a slightly cynical view of parenting, but that's how I was feeling at that period in time.<br /><br />How did you feel when your children started school, or do you remember how you felt on your own first day of kindergarten? </span></p>Josiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15816867427426238114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1977820504261072349.post-35784543322426889622011-08-27T08:31:00.000-07:002011-08-27T09:19:11.152-07:00New Patterns!Two new patterns are available from my Ravelry shop!
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<br />The first is <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/liller">Liller</a>, a top-down, any-gauge pattern for a pretty, frilly baby hat trimmed with a delicate contrast-color edge. The pattern includes seven sizes ranging from newborn to age four and includes instructions for seven gauges of yarn ranging from 16 to 32 stitches to 4 inches/10cm. Measurements are written in inches and centimeters.
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<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645566476350425842" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 250px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJKCcxMsTyZd98MtKyMisywzXzvTxkhljghESl0ehor7BNQaTXDEnQk8ZdKB0WtrPq1RUoL1IUbuzR3PSwxjasIoi8BIg2gZDZsxhY1xSoB8_sqJ5yqmHVms2OTC_uU8NP3YZIM_1KUGFi/s320/SAM_0605+-+Copy.JPG" border="0" />
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<br />The second is the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/liller">Lacette Scarf</a>.
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<br />This pretty scarf uses only one 50g ball of yarn and one easy lace pattern.
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<br />Pattern includes written and charted directions, as well as instructions for steam-blocking the scarf in order to discourage the edges from curling.
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<br />The scarf in the photo was knit using Patons Lacette which has been discontinued. The new Patons Lace is very similar.
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<br />Josiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15816867427426238114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1977820504261072349.post-55941092877109089062011-08-19T09:44:00.000-07:002011-08-19T09:50:33.714-07:00Little Rugged Raglan<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642609451256795986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2nBZyD15EbUHPxmtmVqK2O24CDZx7QPNPPk4dWlpbLOl0ihpjHyUrDZ92SBPWg9itoxofgV2Yk4yM5WNCEDYr4uByc2AVjbRb8mjl9SRikxKv1YVOhedKml-Va_VVJQ4cY_fKgdCmi63k/s320/June2007+173.jpg" border="0" />
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<br />A little boy’s raglan pullover made with a hard-wearing but soft-to-the-touch acrylic/cotton yarn with bright red accent stripes at the cuffs, hem, collar and front pocket.
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<br />The pattern includes a matching ribbed hat and scarf.
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<br />The <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/little-rugged-raglan">Little Rugged Raglan </a>pattern is available as a free Ravelry download. The full text is also available online <a href="http://josieknits.blogspot.com/2008/02/little-rugged-raglan.html">here</a>.
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<br />The sweater in the photos is size 6 (worn by a size 4 boy). 4 balls of yarn made the sweater (size 6), hat (size 6-8) and scarf.
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<br />Materials:</div>
<br /><div>Main color: Bernat “Denim Style” 70% acrylic / 30% cotton, 3.5 oz / 100 g / 196 yd per ball, colour 03044 “Sweatshirt”; 3[3, 3, 3] balls (7.25[8.25, 9.5, 10.25] oz / 207[237, 270, 290] g / 405[465, 530, 567] yds required)</div>
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<br /><div>Contrast color: Bernat Super Value 100% acrylic, 7 oz / 197 g / 335 yd per ball, colour Scarlet; 1[1, 1, 1] ball (small amount required)</div>
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<br /><div>1 set US #8 / 5.0 mm straight needles or size needed to get gauge.</div>
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<br /><div>1 set of 4 or 5 US #8 / 5.0 mm dpns or size needed to get gauge.</div>
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<br /><div>Contrasting thread or thin yarn.</div>
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<br /><div>Darning Needle</div>
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<br /><div>Size: Boy’s 2[4, 6, 8]</div>
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<br /><div>Measurements: </div>
<br /><div>Finished Chest: 28[30, 32, 33.5] inches; 70[75, 80, 84] cm</div>
<br /><div>Finished Length: 14[14.5, 15.75, 18] inches; 35[37.5, 40, 45 cm]</div>
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<br /><div>Gauge: 15 stitches and 20 rows = 4 inches / 10 cm in stockinette stitch</div>
<br /><div>18 stitches and 20 rows = 4 inches / 10 cm in k2p2 rib, slightly stretched
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<br />Josiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15816867427426238114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1977820504261072349.post-75662547198169044472011-08-19T09:37:00.000-07:002012-02-10T17:46:09.078-08:00Felted Cloche<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642608194107838130" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 318px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfifoO1Rt9at0tUW0tvDAw55_nOGzWoyZUA4edR3A5DuJCUQh6zg5C8eFB8GWHRKl0fU3Xp5piLdP_xITeA3pFFuKYGXH-H9Fh09MdXksPmW8JhkiXDnb9iXi4sYTuk9bJ2KGbePeUMne-/s320/117_2726.jpg" border="0" /><span><br /><br /><br /></span>An easy, warm and flattering winter hat that is knitted and then felted. The hat includes directions for a flat brim (shown above) and a rolled brim (shown below). The <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/felted-cloche-3">Felted Cloche </a>pattern is also available as a free Ravelry PDF download. <br /><div><br /><div><br /><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642608196649539826" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 258px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghYpCFkbBrPj4QzE687k2rEX1ZRVebcMjMwd161qHaC-4-JWSdGgnqLiRm6AsbmXvusNRaKN3a3UFoV4f0zc_NtG8Fbrm93sgLNQh_i-I71c7L7oNIO3IvGN0eVhfCL7JR-2_davDNkfJ3/s320/Cloche5.jpg" border="0" /><br /><span><br />Size:<br />-Pre-felting: aprx. 22" circumerence and 12" length (including brim)<br />-After felting: aprx. 21" circumference and 8" length (including brim)<br /><br />Materials:<br />-Briggs & Little Heritage - 100 % wool, 215 yd/196m per 4 oz/113 g ball; Colour 41 (Navy Blue), 2 balls (aprx. 6.75 oz / 190 g / 365 yd / 333 m) per hat<br />-1 set of US #9/5.5mm dpns<br />-1 US #9/5.5mm circular needle, 24" length or less (optional)<br /><span><br />Gauge: 15 sts and 23 rows = 4 in/10 cm on 5.5 mm needles (Note - to facilitate felting, the hat is knit at a looser gauge than the 17 stitches to 4 in/10cm recommended on the ball band).<br /><br /><br /><strong>Directions:<br /></strong><br />Using dpns or circular needle, cast on 100 stitches. Mark beginning of round.<br /><br />Option 1: For a flat brim, work in garter stitch in the round until work measures 2.5<br />inches.<br /></span></span><span><span>Option 2: For a rolled brim, work in stockinette stitch in the round until work measures<br />2.5 inches.<br /><br />Next row (flat or rolled brim): K3, k2tog around - 80 stitches remain. Begin working in<br />stockinette stitch, in the round, until work measures 8.5 inches from the beginning.<br /><br />Begin crown shaping:<br /></span>Row 1 - *k8, k2tog* around.<br />Row 2 and 3 - k around.<br />Row 4 - *k7, k2tog* around.<br />Row 5 and 6 - k around.<br />Row 7 - *k6, k2tog* around.<br />Row 8 - k around.<br />Row 9 - *k5, k2tog* around.<br />Row 10 - k around.<br />Row 11 - *k4, k2tog* around.<br />Row 12 - k around.<br />Row 13 - *k3, k2tog* around.<br />Row 14 - *k2, k2tog* around.<br />Row 15 - *k1, k2tog* around.<br /><span>Row 16 - *k2tog* around.<br /><br />Break yarn and pull through remaining 8 stitches.Weave in ends.<br /><br /><strong>Felting:</strong> Put the hat in a lingierie bag or an old pillow-case and put it in the washing<br />machine with a little soap and some old clothes for friction (I used dark-coloured clothes<br />in case the dye from this dark-coloured hat ran), on hot water setting. Check hat<br />frequently. Throw it in the washing machine again if it isn't small enough yet - I had to<br />send my hat through my little washing machine four times.</span></span></div><span><span><br /><div align="center"><br /></span><span><br />Rolled brim hat before felting (shown on phonebook for scale):<br /></div></span><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707686742118878194" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhww0HwpTzF42QS0Tp6v2Xx5GHS6JERNwdzHoH5xJMt3T0LGJyp30KkC5FlKfbu3vlx3EAK43Qd_nEnOs8aMGiNyr63j6CYyoueXnmjcOEkGA108UQU9MBYUJ5tgxP1BXPdsy-bidYDHJtt/s320/ClochePrefelting.jpg" border="0" /></span><br /><br /><span></span><br /><br /><div align="center"><span>Rolled brim hat after felting:</span></div><span style="font-size:+0;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707686736756632498" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_cQO8-yLsV7sKjazfidxRzuXVdEgab2gvpbaKCKRauG0GIJ_I9Df399Cz9j-Jw_Z8Gj3a1ffjT6mTuZq-ikwciO78aSxaUzPPSA4kje8WG46Dz3GcYvaBJGUgAIMHkk-eCHaCcORwe-V2/s320/ClocheAfterFelting.jpg" border="0" /><br /></span>Josiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15816867427426238114noreply@blogger.com0