Stylish Knits

New Imperial Knits Collection coming soon!

Happy New Year 2012!

Simply Crochet: Giselle Vest

Free Crochet Pattern: Pineapple Top

Simply Crochet e-book Winner

Simply Crochet: Emma Lace Scarf

Interweave Crochet Accessories, 2011 - Preview is up

Portland Fashion Week 2011: Imperial Yarn

Vogue Knitting Live in LA

Fall 2011 season - Three Covers!

Back from the Czech Republic

Book Review: Little Crochet by Linda Permann

Easter Weekend

Secret book by Robyn Chachula was revealed

Get Ready for Spring

Vogue Knitting, Holiday 2010

Arrived to Czech

So little time

TNNA 2010 - part 3

TNNA 2010 - Part 2

TNNA 2010 - part 1

Help for Haiti

Video Decoding

On-line Knitting & Crochet Classes

Spring Shell - Interweave Crochet, Spring 2009

New pattern posted ...

New patterns posted

Happy New Year!

American Girl patterns - knit testers needed

Project update and some pictures...

Still in the crochet groove

Give me some crochet, please ...

Dreamer 136

Where is my copy?

Blog Tour: Casual, Elegant Knits

Sneak Peek from the Czech Republic

Leaving for the Czech Republic

Strung Shells Top - Interweave Crochet Summer 2008

Vote on the Cover

Marina - Leaves Top

Reversible Hat and Scarf Set

More Sizes for Lace Cardi

Trully a Spring Day

Faded Ribbons - Knitter's #90, Spring 2008

Long Vest (VK S/S 2008) Details

Lace Cardigan Details

Happy Spring!

Vogue Knitting Spring/Summer 2008 preview

Project, Project and Yarn

My daughter's AG skirt

Cape Collar Jacket by Vladimir Teriokhin

Bell Sleeve Shrug #3

Knitters # 90 - Vote on the Cover

Bell Sleeve Shrug #2

Thank you

One More Test Knitter Needed

Bell Sleeve Shrug Pattern in works

Day Spent on Brownies Project

More pictures

Happy New Year Everybody!

I am on the COVER!

Forecast Is Done

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

Progress on Forecast & New Pattern

Tadaa! New Pattern's Done

You Learn Something Every Day

New Book

Ravelry and FO

OK, some pictures

Many things..

Surgery went good

Day before surgery

New Pattern finished

Imperfictly perfect

I added several of my patterns to Help-for-Haiti cause. 50% of sales from my select patterns will go to American Red Cross. You can find all the patterns here. The ones in this side bar are included in this special sale as well.

2012-01-15T21:48:00.000-05:00

The new Imperial Knits Collection for Spring/Summer 2012 called Water is Life will be introduced next week at the TNNA in Phoenix, AZ. The designer, Anna Cohen, had not only created the collection but also worked on creating the color schemes for some of the yarns in this collection. The few I had seen so far are really beautiful, so I cannot wait to see all the colors. If you are at TNNA next week, make sure to stop by Imperial Yarn booth to preview the whole collection and the yarns. I had written more about the Imperial Yarn Ranch company here.

This is my second time working with Anna on the collection for Imperial Yarn, doing the design interpretation for her. As I might had mentioned in my previous posts, it is creatively another dimension to my own designing work, I get a wonderful opportunity to explore and implement. I enjoy helping Anna's vision come to life. You can read more about this Spring/Summer 2012 collection and how such collection comes to life in the latest Imperial Yarn eNewsletter. Thank you Anna for such nice words about our working together; it's been a delight!

If you had not gotten a chance yet, please check out the new Imperial Yarn group created on Raverly. You can also follow them on Facebook.

2012-01-03T18:02:00.006-05:00

Wishing you all the best in the New Year 2012! I hope for all of you to have a very successful and productive year.

As the new year starts, many people start with new year's resolutions. I had long given up on any new year resolutions, simply because they do not work. If you want to make a positive change in your life, you should not wait until January 1st. It is no magical date to successfully sustain a change in our lives. It is just an excuse to postpone the start of the change you want. This way we just make the beginning of the change to be out of our control. So if you want to make a positive change, do it today... right now. You will feel so empowered.

So for example, if you want to be healthy, behave as a healthy person...eat healthy, wholesome food, exercise regularly, drink plenty of water and get good night sleep. You can start slow, adding healthy foods only at dinner for example. Start taking 10-20 min walks to slowly begin your exercise regiment, and then add on few more minutes every week. Tell your friend(s) about the change you are planning on implementing; he or she will keep you accountable. :)

If you want to learn a new skill (knitting, crochet anyone?), look for a course in your area to take, or an on-line tutorial that can get you started. Set aside time on your schedule to devote to learning. All it takes is little steps. Little by little goes a long way.

NEW YEAR'S SPECIAL: Buy 2 get 1 free

American Girls 18" doll Sweater and Hat set of 3 patterns

To get you started on a small project for 2012 you can successfully finish over a weekend, I am offering the American Girl 18" Doll Sweater and Hat Sets of the following 3 patterns pictured at left for price of 2.

Cotton Candy
Candy
Rubine

How does it work? Add all 3 patterns into a cart and at the checkout use promotional code 3AG2012.

Special ends on January 10th, 2012 at 11:59 pm EST.

Happy Knitting and Crocheting in 2012!

2011-12-14T08:49:00.014-05:00

Giselle Vest (Simply Crochet, Dec 2011)

This is a second stop on my blog on the Simply Crochet Countdown to Fun Blog Tour. The Giselle Vest is a second design I had contributed to Robyn Chachula's book Simply Crochet: 22 Stylish Designs for Every Day. The book is now available for purchase in both hard copy and e-book.

This top vest is crochet in a beautiful flower lace design forming horizontal lines that is flattering to many body shapes. The top has an easy construction; the body is worked from side to side beginning and ending at center back finished with edging around the top and bottom edges and shoulder straps crocheted on. As all Robyn's books, the instructions are given in both written form and accompanied by charts.

Giselle is worked in Cascade Yarns, Heritage (75% merino superwash, 25% nylon; 437 yd/400 m /3.5 oz/ 100 g): #5648 strawberry cream with D/3 (3.25mm) hook. The yarn is very soft and very easy to work with. The yarn has a great yardage; you need only 2-3 hanks to make this top so it is very budget friendly.

What is your favorite fingering yarn to use for crochet projects? Let me know in the comments.

Next stop for the blog tour is tomorrow, December 15, 2011, at Robyn Chachula's www.crochetbyfaye.blogspot.com.

2011-12-13T21:17:00.002-05:00

Hopefully by now you are finishing all your holiday gift projects and are getting ready to make something for yourself. You can start with making something for spring wear like the Pineapple Top. This is a light, lacy top you can wear over any tank top or even a long sleeve shirt to updated your look.

The top is worked in Cascade Yarns, Ultra Pima (100% pima cotton; 220 yd [200 m]/3.5 oz [100 g]) in color #3745 with F/5 (3.75 mm) size hook. The yarn is very easy to work with; the hook nicely slips as you crochet. The yarn has a slight shine and the fabric becomes even softer after it is blocked. Yummy, yummy yarn!

The Cascade Ultra Pima Pineapple Top is an easy crochet project that is worked sideways with minimal shaping. Starting at center back/front, the top is crocheted to sleeve edge. After each left and right sides are finished, the two pieces are joined at center back and center front, then the lower band is worked downward. You can easily modify how deep you want your v-neck to be.

Pineapple top is available as a free download on Cascade Yarns website.

Hope you will enjoy!

Want more crochet ideas for spring projects? You can see more of my crochet patterns for sale here.
Here are some of crocheter's favorites.

Summer Splash Dress

Spring Shell

Retro Cardigan

2011-12-08T15:50:00.000-05:00

Thank you to all who entered to win Simply Crochet e-book. I enjoyed reading all your lovely comments.

So without further to do. The winner of the book is..... "theresay"! Congratulations!! I will be forwarding your e-mail to Robyn Chachula. She will be in touch with you regarding how to download the copy. I am assuming your e-mail on the blogger is correct. If not, please private message me on Raverly, or leave the e-mail in the commments.

To follow the rest of the book blog tour, see schedule below. I will have another stop of the tour on my blog on December 14.Come back to check it out.

2011-12-06T08:49:00.081-05:00

Emma Lace Scarf is a very special project for me. It is one of the two projects I contributed to Robyn Chachula's newest crochet book Simply Crochet: 22 Stylish Designs for Every Day; and it is my first project I had contributed to any of Robyn's books. I felt honored when she asked me to submit to her book since she's one of the crochet designers whose work I have long admired. Furthermore, many talented crochet designers I love, and nearly all of them who I am friends with, have showcased their designs in this book.

The Emma Lace Scarf was inspired by a leather belt in a Victorian style I saw on a runway couple of years ago. I loved the ornate and romantic look of it and wanted to translate it into crochet. So I made a swatch in this beautiful stitch pattern initially not even knowing what I am going to use it for. The scarf is made in Lion Brand Yarn, LB Collection Superwash Merino (100% Superwash Merino; 306 yd 280 m/3.5 oz 100 g): #114 cayenne, with size G/6 (4 mm) hook. I absolutely loved this yarn, it was very soft and easy to work with. I was pleasantly surprised that this great value yarn is of such a high quality. I highly recommend it and will be using it for my own crochet projects in the future.

As I was working on the project, Robyn had realized having yarn sent to me that we used to live about 10 minutes away from each other before she moved away! What a coincidence. It is wild that we used to go to the same grocery store and did not even know it. World is so, so small. But I got a chance to meet her personally for the first time at TNNA and I have to note that not only Robyn is wonderful person to work with, but she's also very funny and I enjoy hanging out with her.

BOOK HOLIDAY GIVEAWAY
If you are running around in this pre-Christmas time trying to get everything done on your list, slow down and post a comment here on the blog. Interweave Press made a great offer to one of my readers; I can give away one free e-book copy of the Simply Crochet to one of you. All you need to do is to leave a comment here on the blog. You have until tomorrow, December 7th, 2011, midnight ET, to be included in the drawing. I will randomly draw a person and will announce here on December 8th. Good luck!

Simply Crochet book offers designs divided into chapters according to how much yarn is needed to complete a project: 1 ball, 2-3 balls, 4-5 balls. In addition, the book provides tips from designers on how to work crochet projects on a budget and tips on how to manage our own yarn stash. The book is available in both paperback and as an e-book. You can pre-order it now. The e-book is available for download and the hard copy will be on sale December 7, 2011.

Simply Crochet Countdown to fun:
Here is the blog tour in its entirety

1ball projects

Dec 1 Iced Ascot by Rebecca Velasquez, http://rebeccavelasquezdesigns.blogspot.com/

Dec 2 Flapper Hat by Margaret Hubert, http://margaretshooksandneedles.blogspot.com/

Dec 3 Billows of Baubles Scarf by Sheryl Means, http://sherylmeanscrochet.com/

Dec 4 Twist Cowl Wrap by Linda Permann, http://www.lindamade.com/wordpress/

Dec 5 Mystic Cuff by Robyn Chachula, crochetbyfaye.blogspot.com

Dec 6 Emma Lace Scarf by Simona Merchant-Dest, http://stylishknits.blogspot.com/

Dec 7 Diamonds and Lace Hat by Linda Permann, http://www.lindamade.com/wordpress/

Dec 8 Neck Lattice by Vashti Braha, http://designingvashti.blogspot.com/

2-3 balls projects

Dec 9 Botan Placemats by Marlaina Bird, http://knitthing.blogspot.com/

Dec 10 Tapestry Basket by Carol Ventura, http://www.tapestrycrochet.com/blog/

Dec 11 Blooming Beauty Purse by Tracie Barrett, http://traciebarrett.com/blog/

Dec 12 Nedburt Puppet by Robyn Chachula, crochetbyfaye.blogspot.com

Dec 13 Natalie Shrug by Megan Granholm, http://loopdedoo.blogspot.com/

Dec 14 Giselle Vest by Simona Merchant-Dest, http://stylishknits.blogspot.com/

Dec 15 Sidney Cardigan by Robyn Chachula, crochetbyfaye.blogspot.com

Dec 16 Annabel Shawl by Kristin Omdahl, http://www.styledbykristin.com/

4- 5 balls projects

Dec 17 Tallula Baby Top by Marlaina Bird, http://knitthing.blogspot.com/

Dec 18 Amelia Cardigan by Julia Vaconsin, http://www.juliavaconsin.com/

Dec 19 Float Vest, Float Cardigan by Robyn Chachula, crochetbyfaye.blogspot.com

Dec 20 Linked Jacket by Robyn Chachula, crochetbyfaye.blogspot.com

Dec 21 Dots and Dashes Blanket by Ellen Gormley, http://www.gocrochet.com/

Dec 22 Spa Shawl Top by Doris Chan, Spa Shawl Tunic by Doris Chan, http://dorischancrochet.com/

2011-11-06T10:55:00.009-05:00

Interweave Crochet Accessories, 2011, the biggest issue ever with 59+ projects, is up for preview. This issue is really spectacular: It has 14 one-skein projects for last minute gifts, including mittens, cowl or hat. Of course you can find awesome shawls. My favorites are Lucille Shawl by Jill Wright worked in Bijou Spun Fingering Weight yarn by Bijou Basin Ranch, and Icarus Shawl by Tracy McCorcle worked in Brown Sheep Legacy Lace yarn.

I am absolutely smitten by Annie Modesitt's Jazz Bag worked in Trensetter Yarns Cha Cha & Merino VI Solids. This bag requires basic sewing knowledge, but the result gives you a very unique, designer-like bag for fraction of the cost.

If you ever wanted to learn how to crochet, this is a great issue to get because it includes a guide to crochet basics. You can learn how to do four basic crochet stitches, how to croche in circle, how to make granny square motif, small flower motif, or four-color spiral motif (really cool!). You can learn how to join seams and even learn how to make Freeform Bag.

Fancywork Cloche Hat

You can find also my new crochet hat pattern in this issue, the Fancywork Cloche hat worked in Alpaca With a Twist Socrates. The wavy texture of this hat is created with front post single crochet stitches worked every other round on the wrong side. The hat is worked in joined rounds.

The pattern is written in 3 sizes so it can be made for anybody: a small girl as well as a teenage daughter, or a hip mom. And since it takes only one skein to make, it is a great last minute gift project.

The Fancywork Cloche hat is also a great project for learning how to work post stitch. You can watch video on how to do it below.

2011-10-16T22:51:00.022-04:00

At the beginning of this year I met Anna Cohen, internationally recognized sustainable designer and creative director of Imperial Yarns. She had paired with Imperial Stock Ranch to create her first in-house hand knitwear collection of patterns called The Imperial Yarn Knit Collection. At the time I met her, she was looking for hand knitwear designers to work as a technical designer/interpreter for her collection of hand knit patterns for Fall 2011.

This was my very first time to work with a fashion designer; and I was very excited about the opportunity. Anna had built and led successful apparel company from 2005 - 2008, making sustainability her priority in her designs. Working with Anna has been a great experience for me. The process of bringing her designs to life was slightly different from what I have done in the past; and it had taught me a lot. To work on this collection for Anna, among other things, had taught me about sustainability in the US; something I really have not thought about much before. Moreover, Anna's designs are beautiful, fresh with nice silhouettes and she's a pleasure to work with. All the designs in the collection are worked in yarns of Imperial Yarn that are unique, soft and very comfortable to knit with. The yarn is produced by Imperial Stock Ranch, a 140-year-old, family-owned ranch based in Shaniko in central Oregon, that is known for its mindful and sustainable ranching and land-management practices.

I have worked on three designs for the Fall 2011 The Imperial Yarn Knit collection and two designs for the Spring 2012 collection (pictured below). These designs are available in knit-it-yourself kits that are made 100% in the USA including the pattern and Imperial Stock Ranch's wool.

This Imperial Yarn Knit Collection was presented at the Portland Fashion Week 2011 this month. You can see the whole collection on the runway below.

Winter Luxe Cardigan (Fall 2011)

Essential Sweater Dress (Fall 2011)

Simona Circle Bag (Fall 2011)

Tank Top and Bag (Spring 2012)

2011-10-05T00:01:00.005-04:00

Hyatt Regency Century Plaza Hotel

Vogue Knitting Live was a three-day event offering classes, lectures, demonstrations, fashion shows and shopping for knitters, crocheters and yarn lovers from all over the country. This event was hosted by Vogue Knitting magazine; and it was done in style and sophistication.

The event took place in Hyatt Regency Century Plaza hotel, where all these Ferraris were parked at the front of it. The hotel was in a walking distance to Century City Mall with stores like Channel, Luise Vuitton, Coach, Rolex, housing great restaurants including the most amazing food court I've ever seen! It was very modern and clean, and I could get a very healthy meal choices for lunch or dinner.

I have seen friends - designers, yarn companies and publishers. It just so happened that I ran into Grace Akhrem, the designer of Peace Street Hat featured with my Ashbury Mitts on the cover of Interweave Knits Holiday Gifts. What a coincidence! I have never met her before and we were standing right next to each other both talking to Anne Kuo Lukito. We must have taken a picture together, of course.

Me with Grace Akhrem at Vogue Knitting Live in LA.

I was very happy to see Faina Goberstein, since I have not seen her since January. We always have fun together. Since I had my mom with me, who does not speak English, we had communicated in Russian and Czech among each other, so my Mom could participate in the conversation without me having to translate all the time. I was amazed that I understood almost everything what Faina was saying!! It's been nearly 20 years I had a conversation in Russian! I guess what you learn as a kid will stay with you for life. :)

Me with Faina Goberstein at Vogue Knitting Live in LA.

I enjoyed an evening with Carl and Eileen Kooper, owners of Bijou Basin Ranch, and of course with one and only Marly Bird.

Of course, Vogue Knitting Live is above all about the knitter and crocheters. I could see knitters and crocheters everywhere I looked. They had taken over the Hyatt hotel lobby enjoying the craft and time spend with friends, ready to learn more, meet their favorite designers and taking break between classes and before walking the market to get great deals on yarn and accessories. I had encountered also one knitter who I just met in front of the hotel who was wearing my Lace Cardigan design from Vogue Knitting, Spring/Summer 2008 issue.

A knitter I met in my Lace Cardigan
from Vogue Knitting (Spring/Summer 2008)

2011-09-20T05:06:00.003-04:00

Last week I have received the new issues of Interweave Crochet and Interweave Knits Holiday Gifts 2011 and my patterns are on the cover! Oh my, how exciting! In addition, my first pattern for Classic Elite Yarns is also on the cover of the new booklet 9154 Atelier featuring four patterns in Inca Alpaca yarn .

On the cover of Interweave Crochet Fall 2011 is featured my Lace Canopy Cardi Wrap. This is a combination of a cardigan and shawl in one garment, which can be worn open with shawl fronts, closed with a big belt, or with one or both shawl ends tossed over your shoulders for extra warmth. Elegant lace edges the shawl fronts. It is worked in The Fibre Company Canopy fingering (50% baby alpaca, 30% merino, 20% bamboo; 200 yd [183 m]/1¾ oz [50 g]): gray. This yarn is so beautiful to work with and becomes even softer after blocking. I'm looking forward to using this yarn again. I wrote the pattern in generous 8 sizes in a range of 30 1/2 - 59 1/2" chest circumference.

On the cover of Interweave Knits Holiday Gifts my Ashbury Mitts are featured with Grace Ahkrem's Peace Street Hat. The Ashbury Mitts are worked in Bijou Basin Ranch Lhasa Wilderness (75% yak, 25% bamboo; 180 yd [165 m]/56 g): natural cream - lovely, lovely yarn, my favorite from Bijou Basin. The mitts are worked top down in a round with center Hearts stitch studded with miniature bobbles. The pattern is written in 3 sizes.

Included in the issue is also my Forever Scarf worked in Classic Elite Princess (40% merino, 28% viscose, 10% cashmere, 15% nylon, 7% angora; 150 yd [137 m]/50 g): inc charcoal (MC), and keepsake pink (CC) colors.

Lastly, the Belle Epoque is worked in Classic Elite Yarns Inca Alpaca . It is a simply shaped cardigan knitted in a drop stitch pattern, worked sideways in two identical halves from sleeve cuffs to center front/back. Right and left halves are sewn at center back. Stitches are picked up and worked down for bottom rib.Pattern is written in 5 sizes.

2011-08-30T23:05:00.004-04:00

A few days ago, I have finally arrived from the trip to the Czech Republic. It was nice, as always, and this summer in particular I have done more traveling than ever before. I had spent some fun times with friends and family; but now when the summer is almost over and the school has started, I am glad I am finally getting back to my regular schedule of routines and work. And that's a good thing since I have quite a bit of work lined up in front of me for the upcoming season.

I have 2 big projects I am working on at the moment. One is due at the end of September and the another, even larger one, is due at end of November. I'm very excited about both of them and you will learn more later in the upcoming months.

Moreover, if you are following the knit and crochet world a bit closer, you might already know that I've had several new patterns come out already for this Fall in couple of magazines, books and with some of my favorite yarn companies. I will also share those with you as I settle in and get a bit more organized here.... :)

As I mentioned my travels, I had seen some beautiful places in my native country of the Czech Republic, and I also visited Slovakia, Hungary and Austria with my family and some good friends of mine. I have pictures to share; again I will need to get organized first.

So lots to do... I'd better get started!

Here's just a peek... my view from the balcony I got to enjoy almost every day.

2011-06-21T14:53:00.000-04:00

I first saw this book Little Crochet about 6 months ago at TNNA in Long Beach, where the author and my friend Linda Permann showed me a brief preview. As soon as you see the cute little booties on the cover, you know that the book will be filled with fresh, modern and wearable outfits all of us want to make for babies and toddlers in our lives. Being able only to flip quickly through the pages, I knew I liked the book and wanted it in my library!

Besides the obvious, offering beautiful designs, the book is very well organized and thought out. It offers not only garments, accessories and toys for babies, girls and boys, but with most projects there is also a suggestion for yarn and color substitutions to personalize. As any good crochet book, the patterns are written in written-out instructions with symbol diagrams, which I love.

If you are a beginner, this book is also a great resource to get you started. Linda explains the crochet basics, illustrates how to do all the stitches, including finishing techniques. In addition, she helps you with choosing the right yarn, choosing the right size, measuring your gauge correctly, and much more.

Enjoy!

My favorite projects are:

Mix and Match Motif Blanket

Ribbed Cardigan

Soft Owl Pillow

Sweet Daisy Sundress

Swing Set Cardigan

Sock It to Me Sweater Vest

2011-04-25T17:58:00.003-04:00

Even though deadlines are fast approaching, this weekend was one I took a break from knitting and crocheting to spend time with my family. I really needed the break since this past couple of months had been little crazy. This is what we were up to.

My youngest daughter and I baked babovka, a Czech sweet bread. I used a recipe found in a magazine called Apetit, a magazine I bought in the Czech Republic a few years ago. The recipe we used is called Grandma's babovka (a type of bunt cake) and indeed it was the same as my Grandma used to make when I was little. We used to make it pretty much every Sunday, so I got some practice in this. To make this one takes several steps and it's rather time consuming; but it was worth the effort. It was sooo good. I do not bake sweets very much these days because I can't stop eating them; but it was nice to share this experience with my daughter.

Later in a day my daughters and I decorated eggs. We used bee's wax that we warmed up and pin head pinned into a pencil to draw designs on the eggs. It is an old Czech technique used mainly in South Bohemia, a part of the Czech Republic. We used simple 2-color technique; but it can be done multicolored. I learned this technique when I was little at the folklore ensemble I belong to. Again, it felt really good to share these skills and techniques with my daughters and they really enjoyed the process and results.

I hope you all enjoyed your Easter weekend. Happy spring!

2011-04-02T08:35:00.002-04:00

Robyn Chachula's new book Simply Crochet was revealed on the Interweave Press website. I have contributed a couple of projects to this book; and I absolutely love the way they were photographed. And, as always, the whole style of the book is really lovely.

The book features projects that can be made on a budget, with a few balls of yarn. It offers tips and tricks on how to crochet economically.

You can see preview here or below.

Simply Crochet BLAD

2011-03-30T16:54:00.002-04:00

The weather is still playing games with us. The calendar says it's spring and we are couple days away from April but the temperatures linger around freezing point out here. Brr. By now we usually have temps at least in the 50s.What's going on? I AM ready for spring! At least we can warm up with some spring knit or crochet projects while we wait for the warmer weather to arrive and be ready in style.

Interweave Crochet, Spring 2011

Have you seen the preview of the newest Spring issue of the Interweave Crochet magazine? I got my issue a few days ago, and I absolutely adore the Chamomile Cardigan by Doris Chan and the Petal Pullover by Robyn Chachula. If I had unlimited time on my hands (looking forward to that one day :)), i would also love to make the Bluebell Cardigan by Edie Eckman; it looks like a lovely cardi for spring. It uses very interesting method to start the project, make sure to check it out.

Hialeah Bag

Since we still need to wait for some flowers to come up, in meanwhile you can make my new Hialeah bag that you can nicely pair with any of the cardigans or pullover in the issue. The bag is fun, chic and a bit retro to cheer you up. I loved the flowers "blooming" under my fingers when making it. This projects can be made in any color combination you like. Hope you will enjoy it too!

The bag is lined with double lining - the light yellow inside to insure an easy search for things in the bag; and the light silver one that nicely matched with the bag's main color. Though if you like, you might make a single lining that will work just as well if it's sturdy enough.

The Tahki Cotton Classic Lite was very nice to work with; it's smooth with a light sheen and does not split. It also produces fabric that will not stretch dramatically on you. I will definitely consider this yarn for my other crochet projects. Loved it!!

Project Requirements:

Finished Size: About 11" wide, 7½" long, and 3" deep.

Yarn: Tahki Cotton Classic Lite (100% mercerized cotton; 146 yd [135 m]/1¾ oz [50 g]): #4017 steel gray (MC), 4 skeins; #4532 pale lemon yellow (CC1), 3 skeins; #4807 dark turquoise (CC2), 1 skein.

Hook: Sizes E/4 (3.5 mm) and D/3 (3.25 mm). Adjust hook size if necessary to obtain correct gauge.

Notions: Stitch markers (m); yarn needle; bag handles 7" in diameter; two pieces of fabric for lining measuring 15 × 19" (including ½" seam allowance); sewing needle, matching thread.

Gauge: 6-petal motif = 3" in diameter with larger hook.

2010-12-12T13:33:00.001-05:00

I'm sorry for the once-again long break in my posts. I've been long back from the Czech Republic, of course. I came back late August and have been busy ever since. While on the summer break, I had a great time and traveled quite a bit. I visited not only my native Brno, but went to visit my very good friend near Pelhrimov, went to Olomouc, visited a friend in Prague and my cousin in Karlovy Vary. I really love showing my girls where their roots are coming from now when they are older. They speak Czech fluently, so they easily fit in. It's fun to show them places that they only know from movies or books. Though, let me save more details from the trip for a later post.

I just wanted to quickly drop in to say that you can see two of my latest designs in the Holiday 2010 issue of Vogue Knitting magazine. I just learned from Ravelry, that the same magazine is also published as a Designer Knitting magazine for European market. Hmm, interesting. Here are the designs:

Bow Neck Cardigan
Yarn: Bergère de France Eclair

Gauge: 23 stitches and 25 rows = 4 inches in start stitch patt

Needle size: US 7 - 4.5 mm

Yardage: 800 - 1380 yards (732 - 1262 m)

Sizes available: XS - L

Photo by Paul Amato.

This cardigan is worked top-down cardigan, in a virtually no-sew construction. The construction allows for easy modifications. Any knitter can be easily adjust the sleeve length to long sleeve or longer length if desired.

Vine Lace Scarf

Yarn: Debbie Bliss Rialto 4 ply

Gauge: 32 stitches and 37 rows = 4 inches in over chart lace pattern

Needle size: US 3 - 3.25 mm

Size: 6" x 83"

Photo by Paul Amato.

This scarf is worked in a vine lace pattern that shows very nicely in the Debbie Bliss Rialto 4 ply yarn. I very much enjoyed working with it. It is very soft and gives beautiful stitch definition.

The scarf is worked in two pieces that are joined with 3-needle bind-off at the center. It is worked that way so that the lace pattern shows in the same direction for both halves. This construction also makes it for a faster knit if you work both halves at the same time. I like to knit that way because you have both halves finished at the same and both halves have the exact same length achieved without any measuring, counting rows or pattern repeats to check the lengths.

2010-07-06T18:11:00.010-04:00

I had arrived with the girls to Czech last week. The travel is always tiring, but we know what to expect - the tiredness really is the hardest thing when coming here. The packing of our suitcases, though, is much worse. But now we are happily here; time-wise converted to local time and enjoying nice "cool" 70 - 80 degree F summer weather with zero humidity. :)

This is us waiting at the Vienna airport for the bus to Czech. The girls are doing remarkably good after two plane changes and 1 - 2 hour night sleep (It's 3:30 am of Eastern time!).

This past week I had

been spending my time with my kids, my Mom, my sister and my sister's three boys.
experienced quite a noise being around 6 kids nearly 24/7
had already hosted couple sleepovers!
hosted a small birthday party for my 2 nephews with my Mom.
made a cake, had to improvise because the ingredients I use in the US are not available here.
to take cold showers for 2 days!
to have a water-heater repaired.
to do without Internet connection
sent a book contribution submission after deadline (!)

2010-06-25T00:14:00.002-04:00

Past couple of weeks had been really hectic. Ever since I got back from TNNA, I've been going nonstop. I have many things I am trying to finish before I go to the Czech Republic for the summer and the days do not seem to have enough hours in day.

1. There are several submissions I want to send some proposals to but I am seriously running out of time. I have to prioritize and let some go.

2. I am finishing a class on-line. Tomorrow is the last class and over the weekend I am hoping to do the final, since I don't want to do it while traveling.

3. I need to pack; and I have not started yet at all!

4. I need to pick suitable yarns and stitch patterns for multiple design proposal to take with me to work on while in Czech.

5. I had been finishing two projects for a holiday magazine. Luckily, they are ready to be sent off tomorrow. I was hoping to send it off today, but was unable to have it all done until evening.

Having my kids out of school for over a week now makes me to have a bit less time during the day. But they help me. My oldest daughter helped me rewind the new hanks of yarn I got at TNNA into balls today. By the time she was done, she was a pro. My six year old also wanted to try it, so she did some of the tiny yarn samples I had.

6. I have to finish proofreading of several patterns that had been tech edited.

Oh my, the list is growing. I better go to bed to get an early start tomorrow. I have only three days.

2010-06-21T12:14:00.011-04:00

So here is more on TNNA goodies.

Gadgets

I had gotten a chance to stop by dellaQ booth and buy their awesome circular needle case. I don't know about you, but I have my Addi circs still in their original packaging stored in a gallon Ziploc. I am always searching for the correct size like a mad woman. So finally I decided enough is enough and I bought this case. I had bought a similar case for my crochet hooks (crochet roll) last year and absolutely love it! I never have to search for anything and I can always grab it and go. It goes well with my favorite large knitting bag from the same company. That bag is very cool.

Then I stopped by Lantern Moon. Faina and I had a very nice talk with the owner. She was offering some new needles and had great plans for their future products. I can't wait. I had shared with her that the small silk taffeta knitting bags she sells are absolute hit with my girls. The colors the bags come in are just sensational. I ordered those bags for my kids last year, and they just loved it. The girls feel inspired to knit when they have these beautiful bags to store their knitting in; they are just like Mommy. Sometimes they even use these bags as purses when we go out!

This year the girls got clam shell cases. They come in sets of three. You can use them for your little notions we all carry around.

More on Yarn

I took a class at TNNA on dyeing yarn. I have long admired hand-dyed yarn and wanted to learn how to do it myself. I am not a huge fan of the variegated yarn, but I love the monochromatic yarns. The class I took was good -- hands on. Though my results were not necessarily what I had imagined. I wanted to dye my yarn in a "happy" orange, but it turned out to be more golden, fall looking orange. It still looks OK, but it was not what I was going for. I guess I cannot expect to be an expert at my first try! Here is the result.

It has a golden orange and a bit of apple candy color in it. Eventually, I'd like to make a shawl out of it.

The second dyeing attempt was a bit worse. My daughter called it a tie-dye (!), even though it was just painted flat on the knitted fabric. Hmm. Maybe I stick with designing. But the yarn dyeing in a hanks I might try again. This flat knitted fabric is machine knitted with two yarns held together, so if one wants to make socks out of yarn dyed this way, you will end up with matching socks. And that's nice.

2010-06-18T15:24:00.007-04:00

TNNA is an international trade organization representing retailers, manufacturers, distributors, designers, manufacturers' representatives, publishers,... and twice a year they have a trade show where buyers and sellers are brought together. Sellers are representing the best in the business. Buyers are busy snapping up the latest and most exciting new products.

Since nobody is allowed to buy anything on the market floor, people might get samples of various products to help them decide if they want to make order or not. For us, designers, the best samples we can get is yarn. These are all my goodies packed in Lantern Moon's silk bag.

I have seen many new yarns offered by veterans like Cascade, Berroco, Blue Sky Alpacas, Bijou Basin Ranch, Plymouth, and many others, but also discovered several new yarn companies that had amazing yarn. Those new companies might not be necessarily new in business, but they were either exhibiting for the first time or they are new to me.

One of my favorite new yarns I discovered was yarn of Abuelita Yarns. Abuelita yarns is a well-established Uruguayan company (I was told they've been in business over 35 years) and they produce very fine, heavenly soft hand dyed yarns. Their specialty is merino, but they offer some merino and silk blends, and organic cotton.

In the picture you can see from left to right:: Abuelita Three Ply (New) - 100% merino, 420 yd in 3.5oz/100g per skein, and the other two are Abuelita Thick and Thin - 100% merino, 136 yd in 3.5oz/100g skein. I can't wait to rewind them into balls and swatch them. Both these yarns are so very soft. Ahhh. You can see their whole line of yarns here.

Another yarn that yarn I got magically drawn to whole weekend was yarn offered by Anzula luxury fibers. They offer hand dyed luxury yarn and incredible choice of spinning fiber. They carry wide variety of yarn weight from lace weight to worsted in semi-solids (my favorite) and variegated colorways. For those who enjoy variegated yarn, you can request any combination of their 40+ colors they offer. All the colors are very unique and really beautiful.

Here you can see Oasis (70% silk, 30% camel, 375 yd, 6sts/inch on US #5), Cricket (80% superwash merino, 10% cashmere, 10% nylon; 250yd, 5sts/inch on US#5 - here you can see only a half skein), Mermaid (60% sea cell, 40% silk, lace weightt +/-700yd), For Better or Worsted (80% superwash merino, 10% cashemere, 10% nylon, +/-200yd, 4 sts/inch) - this yarn is incredibly soft and pleasure to knit with.

Another yarn I really liked was yarn by Pear Tree Yarn. It is an Australian based company that offers natural Australian luxury yarn. I have seen them at the previous shows and I always love coming to see them at their booth. Their yarns have beautiful natural colors that I am drawn to.

Last, but not least Fibre-Isle Fine Yarns. It is a company that is specializing in bison and bison-blend yarns. The owner, Sylvie Toupin, is a spinner and incredible lace designer.

Here you can see from in front Kami Bison DK (60% bamboo, 30% merino, 10% bison, US #6-7 needles) and in the back Kami Bison (60% bamboo, 30% merino, 10% bison, US #1-2 needles).

The scale you see in these pictures belonged to my beloved Grandmother. She was a great baker and used it all the time. The scale is very special to me because it reminds me of her everyday. I lived with her for most of my childhood. She passed away 9 months ago and I miss her terribly.

On a lighter note, next time let's talk some more yarn, new designs and gadgets.

2010-06-16T17:44:00.008-04:00

This TNNA was awesome! I hung out with old friends and made new ones. I had seen some yummy new yarn from veteran yarn companies, but also some wonderful new yarn companies. I had seen new gadgets for the season. I had conducted some good networking and established new work relationships. Overall, it was a great, fun and productive weekend.

So much happened that I will need more than one post to report it all. Let me start with all the wonderful designers I met. They always make the visit of TNNA market the most fun. So here we go.

I had met with Marlaina "Marly" Bird (Yarn Thing and Blog Radio) who I am always looking forward to seeing. She seems always happy and is extremely funny! She always hangs out with Kristin Omdahl who I met last TNNA. She is very talented and always stylishly dressed in her beautiful crochet creations. Kristin has a new book coming out Crochet so Fine that was revealed at the show.

My friend Faina Goberstein arrived on Sunday, so I did only have a day and half to spend with her. It's always a pleasure to be around her; we have always tons things to talk about. If you have not heard yet, Faina is running a very popular site Designer's Studio where you can read interviews of all the finest knit and crochet designers. Faina has a great oversight of what's going on in the designing world and knows everyone!

I briefly talked with Stefanie Japel who arrived with her baby daughter Olive and her hubby. It was nice to see Mary Beth Temple.

I also met new designers whose work I had been admiring for long time. I met Ellen Gormley at Raverly's Ice Cream party that was held after the fashion show on Friday.

Saturday I met Linda Permann, who I also met for coffee and coke break on Monday. We talked all stuff designing and I clicked with her right away.

At the Stitch Cooperative party on Saturday I met Robyn Chachula - a crochet design genius. I had dinner with Dora Oherstein - a stylish crochet designer who runs an on-line crochet magazine Crochet Insider.

At the Designer's dinner at Buca di Peppo I met among others Amy Polcyn - we've known each other through e-mails a good while since we work on projects for Mission Falls together, but we never met before in person. I sat across a table not even knowing that it was her until we introduced ourselves. She looked much younger in person than I saw her on the Internet. Good for her.

By mere accident, Faina and I had bumped into Nancy Marchant, brioche stitch mastermind, in Einstein Bagels and ended up having a nice breakfast together. She has also a new coming out, Knitting Brioche - it's really cool.

The list can go on and on. I met Kate Oates, Allegra Wermuth, Cecily Glowik MacDonald, Veronik Avery, Teva Durham, Anne Kuo Lukito, Ysolda Teague, and many, many others.

Next time, let's talk yarn.

2010-01-18T09:25:00.006-05:00

2009-12-07T12:43:00.002-05:00

I have spent about 60% of my weekend (!?!) trying to learn how to convert video clips taken by my husband's camera into a format that my Windows Movie Maker would be able to download. It's a great software installed on my computer that I can use for editing clips made by my Sony camera; but it does not help if the format .mov cannot be downloaded to it from my husband's camera.

The problem I am having is that if I take video clips of close-up shots with my Sony camera, the images are rather out of focus. I had been trying to adjust the focus modes on it, but it does not seem to help. The best I am able to get is with automatic focus, but as I move my fingers and needles while knitting, the picture is coming in and out of focus; and that's very annoying.

So I tried to use my husband's camera for the close ups; and the problem was solved - I was getting sharp images. Though, now I am unable to upload these files to my "movie maker" software to edit it!! It's very frustrating.

I had been trying to download some other editing softwares from Internet to try if the .mov format would work with any of them. If you have some good suggestion, let me know. I hope that the output of the edited version will work with the site I am intending to use for the on-line classrooms. :)

2009-12-05T19:31:00.009-05:00

Hi everyone!

It's been a while since my last post. I've been quite busy, traveling to Europe during the summer (it was a bitter sweet visit, though) and had been working quite a bit after I got back - six new designs coming up in spring. A bit more on that in upcoming posts.

Right now I am working on setting up my own knitting and crochet workshop studio where I am going to offer knitting and crochet on-line classes. I am very excited about the prospect when I think of all the possibilities of an on-line course can offer to knitters and crocheters out here cyberspace.

Last week I started taking an on-line class (very much the same format I am going to be offering) for teachers to learn how efficiently run this kind of venture. Stefanie Japel is the teacher of that class; and she is terrific. Many of you have probably heard of her; she has published a couple of knitting books (looove them!) and she also has quite a successful on-line presence. I am also enjoying being in the classroom with other designers and teachers. We don't get much of face-to-face interaction otherwise, so this is a wonderful opportunity for us to get together.

This past few days I have been also building the on-line classroom web site. The classroom will be fully interactive with instructional videos, PDF handouts, forums and live chats, so it will have a feel of real life classroom. It will have so many advantages over a real-life classes:

students will have access to all the materials 24-hours a day for the duration of the class (about 3 - 4 weeks)
students can review materials over and over, until it's clear to them
students can post in forums about their progress; ask questions; interact with each other
students can participate in live chats with me and other students
students can learn in the comfort of their home, or during a lunch break
students can save time and money by not having to travel to a location
- great for knitters/crocheter who don't have access to LYS
- great for moms who can study the evenings or during children's nap times
students can produce a finished project by the end of the class!

Today I have been trying to edit my recorded test video with Windows Movie Maker that is installed on my computer. It is quite easy to use and creates professionally looking footage. I had "play" with the output format, which was not supported by my website.

I am interested what you think about this type of classes and what kind of classes you would like to take on-line. Would you be interested in beginners classes, more advanced classes, technique or project classes? I have a few class ideas, but I am still interested in what you think and what you'd like to learn. Let me know.

2009-04-10T15:39:00.005-04:00

I wanted to share with you a new design of mine that was just published in Interweave Crochet, Spring 2009 issue. I was pretty happy with the way it turned out. I really liked the yarn that I used in this sample, the Gedifra Florida. It made for a great stitch definition; it was soft but did not have too much of a drape - just right for this garment. In fact I liked it so much I got some of this yarn for myself at Royal Yarns here at a nice discount - yellow color for me and red for my oldest daughter. If I only had time to work something out of it NOW.

Anyways, back tot the Spring Shell - you can see more information about the pattern on Interweave Crochet site here. The magazine is on newsstands now.

If you are on Ravelry and want to join a CAL, there is a Crochet-Along for the Spring Shell starting here.

It was also brought to my attention on this CAL that the pattern, unfortunately, has an error in Rnd 2 of the Main body in the magazine. Please see the errata below for working the pattern correctly.

Spring Shell (Interweave Crochet, Spring 2009) - errata

Here it is what it should read starting on p. 56:

Rnd 1: (RS) Ch 3 (counts as dc here and throughout), sk first sc, work form * to * of Row 1 of Main body patt (see Stitch Guide) 5 (6, 7, 8, 9, 10) times, work Row 1 of Panel patt (see Stitch Guide), rep from * to * 13 (15, 17, 19, 22, 23) times, dc in next sc, pm for right side “seam” , dc in next sc, rep from * to * of Row 1 of Main body patt 23 (26, 29, 32, 35, 38) times, dc in last sc, pm for beg of rnd (left “seam” - see Notes), sl st in beg ch 3 to join, turn.
Rnd 2: Ch 3, sk first dc, dc in each dc to first ch-1 sp, work Row 2 of Panel patt, dc to end, sl m (beg of rnd), sl st in beg ch 3 to join, turn.
Rnd 3: Ch 3, sk first dc, work form * to * of Row 1 of Main body patt 5 (6, 7, 8, 9, 10) times, work Row 2 of Panel patt, rep from * to * 13 (15, 17, 19, 22, 23) times, dc in last dc before m (right “seam”), sl m, dc in next dc, rep from * to * 23 (26, 29, 32, 35, 38) times, dc in last st, sl m (beg of rnd & left “seam”), sl st in first st to join, turn.

Then continue as written in the magazine.

There were also some questions that came up on the Ravelry CAL, so I address them here as well.
(1) The top is worked in rounds that are connected at left side seam by sl st at the end of each round. Then you turn your work to WS and work back around to left seam again, join with sl st and then turn to RS. This way you go back and forth in rounds joining at the left seam.
(2) The top has a clear visual “division” between front and back pieces with visual seams being places between 2 dc at either side (see the instructions above).

I hope it’s more clear now and I am not confusing you further. If more questions arise, please let me know. :)

2009-01-12T20:28:00.005-05:00

I just wanted to let you know that I have put the last American Girl pattern on sale in my store. If you want to download it immediately, you can buy it below in this post.

Cotton Candy

$4.00

This top fits to an American Girl doll size and any comparable 18” doll.

The top has TOP-DOWN seamless construction - no sewing required except for weaving loose ends. The hat is also knitted in a round, no seams and sewing required. This is a quick 3 - 4 hour project; great for last minute gifts.

SIZES: One size – to fit 18” doll

MATERIALS:
• 1 3.75oz./100g ball (each approx. 178yd / 163m) of TLC
Cotton Plus (51% Cotton, 49% Acrylic) in color #3706 light
rose; OR 135yd/ 148m of any comparable medium weight
(worsted) yarn. (Note: when choosing the yarn, choose rather
some stretchier yarn for this project since it needs to be put
on overhead and needs to stretch a bit to fit.)
• One set of 5 dpn US size #6 (4mm) needles OR SIZE TO
OBTAIN CORRECT GAUGE
• 4 stitch markers (m)
• Stitch holders (or scrap yarn)
• Tapestry needle

GAUGE:
• 19 sts and 26 rows = 4” square over St st using US size #6
(4mm) needles
• 21 sts and 48 rows = 4” square over Bubble patt using US size #6 (4mm) needles

2009-01-04T09:19:00.005-05:00

I had a wonderful test-knitter, Irina, who test-knitted my newest designs, Candy and Rubine, for me. I have added the patterns to my Etsy store today. If you want to get direct download, you can click below on this site (all possible through Ravelry download).

Candy

$4.00

This top fits to an American Girl doll size and any comparable 18” doll.

The top / cardigan has TOP-DOWN seamless construction - no sewing required except for weaving loose ends. The top can be worn both as a top or a cardigan. The hat is knitted in a round, no seams and sewing required as well. This is a quick 3 - 4 hour project; great for last minute gifts.

SIZES: One size – to fit 18” doll

Materials:
• 160yd/ 175m of any medium weight (worsted) yarn.
I used TLC Cotton Plus (51% Cotton, 49% Acrylic) in color #3707 medium rose
• One pair of US size #6 (4mm) needles OR SIZE TO OBTAIN CORRECT GAUGE
• One set of dpn US size #6 (4mm) needles OR SIZE TO OBTAIN CORRECT GAUGE
• One F/5 – 3.75mm size hook
• 4 stitch markers (m)
• Stitch holders (or scrap yarn)
• Tapestry needle
• 5 buttons

Gauge:
• 20 sts and 30 rows = 4” square over St st using US size #6 (4mm)
• 20 sts and 30 rows = 4” square over Traveling Eyelet patt using US size #6 (4mm)

For the other American Girl (18” doll) patterns of the sets pictured in the last 2 photos, please see my other listings.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rubine

$4.00

This top fits to an American Girl doll size and any comparable 18” doll.

The top / cardigan has TOP-DOWN seamless construction - no sewing required except for weaving loose ends. The top can be worn both as a top or a short-sleeve cardigan. The hat is knitted in a round, no seams and sewing required. This is a quick 3 - 4 hour project; great for last minute gifts.

SIZES: One size – to fit 18” doll

MATERIALS:
• 135yd/ 142m any medium weight (worsted) yarn.
I used Caron Simply Soft (100% Acrylic) in color #9748 rubine red
• One pair of US size #6 (4mm) needles

OR SIZE TO OBTAIN CORRECT GAUGE
• One set of dpn US size #6 (4mm) needles OR SIZE TO OBTAIN CORRECT GAUGE
• One F/5-3.75mm hook
• 4 stitch markers (m)

• Stitch holders (or scrap yarn)
• Tapestry needle
• 5 small buttons

Gauge:
• 21 sts and 26 rows = 4” square over St st using US size #6 (4mm)
• 20 sts and 30 rows = 4” square over Lace patt using US size #6 (4mm)

For the other American Girl (18” doll) patterns of the sets pictured in the last photo, please see my other listings.

2009-01-03T20:40:00.005-05:00

I hope everyone had a great holiday season. We certainly did. We've had quite crazy weather here. The temperature was even about 70 F here for couple days - very unusual for this time of a year; though now it is very, very cold, so go figure. When the weather is like this, I don't feel like going anywhere at all. So it so happened that we hung out around the house. Kids played with their dolls - they got new outfits and accessories for them from Santa.

COMPUTER ISSUES
A couple of days before Christmas, my laptop started acting up on me. I use my laptop all the time (I am very dependent on it as I found out when I did not have it). I had always had it on in my living room; and what probably happened over time is that kids, our dog, and even I had tripped over the power cord and it loosened and probably broke the plug in the computer. So what started happening was that I could not get my computer fully charged as I wanted and it was only a matter of time when the battery was going to run out. At the end the computer died on me when I was turning it on and I could not get it to start at all. That was the end to my computer! Luckily, my husband was able to get all my documents from the hard drive.

So during the holidays we started a hunt for a new computer. We liked Sony Vaio SR, but when I went to check it out in a store, I discovered that the keyboard is rather unusual - it has spacing between the keys like I've never seen before. When I tried to write on it, it felt awkward and annoying. I was bummed since I really liked the Sony style - I wanted the PINK one - what can I say. So we looked at HP laptop, which seemed OK, but was not as stylish. I liked the Sony a lot, so I decided to go back to the store to practice typing on it if I could possibly get used to the keyboard. I typed for good 20 minitues; the more I wrote the easier I found it to use. So at the end I decided to order the one from Sony; and after waiting for 10 days (!!) to have it delivered, I finally got it today! I am very, very excited about having it. Right now I am transferring all my documents and pictures back. The computer has Microsoft Vista on it; and it is very sleek and mod. It will take me some time to get used to it, but I like the style of it very much.

2008-12-20T16:05:00.009-05:00

The past week was super busy for me; thus no postings. Besides the fact that my youngest daughter was turning 5 and I was heaving 2 birthday parties planned for her, I had also decided to participate in a cookie swap on the same day as one of the birthday parties. I made some Czech cookies my grandma used to make - coffee bean cookies. It took me close to 3 hours to make 8 dozens of them! I am really not the cooking/baking type of girl who enjoys the process because things usually don't go right and I get frustrated easily. It would be much more fun for me if I was making it with somebody than just standing in a kitchen by myself or heaving my kids argue over who is going to do what. It would be nice to do it with my grandma or mom or my sister, but those days are gone since they do not reside in the same country with me over the holidays. Anyways, cookies are done - I made 3 more other kinds as well (just needed to do it for the tradition's sake!) - I did have a better luck with no major mishaps.

NEW - American Girls (or 18" doll) patterns

Also I was knitting, of course. That was more fun for me. I had made three outfits for American Girl dolls for my kids. I enjoyed these quick projects very much. I thought they turned out well - if I say so myself, so I decided to write the patterns for them. Now I am offering the patterns for free to a a few of you knitters to test the pattern. So if you'd like to make one of the sweaters, and have 3 - 4 hours to devote to this project in the next week or so, please contact me. I will e-mail you the pattern for you to knit from. What I ask in return is to give me a feedback on the pattern and that you do it in timely fashion, lets say within a week of me sending you the pattern. In your message, please let me know which of the patterns you'd like to make as well.

Candy
All the sweaters are worked from neck down in one piece with no need for seaming. The hats are also worked in a round. You'll need between 135 to 160 yds of medium weight (worsted) yarn - great way to use your leftover scrap yarn! Further, you'll need US 6 (4.00mm) needles - circular and/or double pointed needles, F/5 - 3.75mm hook and 5 buttons (for Rubine & Candy), tapestry needle, 4 stitch markers, and stitch holders (or some scrap yarn).
Cotton Candy
Rubine

2008-12-14T21:46:00.008-05:00

I worked on this jacket in spring 2008. I almost finished it before the summer, but was unable to sew the buttons on yet and a cable that goes around the outer part of the collar. But I think I like it better without it. I modified the collar, since I did not like the big collar on me as it was pictured in the original pattern. Second, I did not fully how the construction of the collar as described in the patter, so I knitted a collar support to mimic the shape of the collar and then sewn it from the back of the collar to body (see pictures below).

Project info

Name: Cape Collar Jacket

Pattern:#16 Cape Collar Jacket by Vladimir Teriokhin from Vogue Knitting (Winter 2007/2008)

Size: S

Needle: US 8 / 5.0 mm
Yarn: Bernat Soy Natural Blends
How much?: 14 skeins = 1876.0 yards (1715.4m)
Colorway: oatmeal

Unfortunately, I did not make the best yarn choice for this cardigan: the soy yarn has become rather heavy and stretched the cardigan to a great length. It still looks OK, though I might shorten it at waist one of these days.

2008-12-10T11:42:00.004-05:00

In my previous post I talked about the book Double Stitch. I was very inspired by the designs and wanted to make the shrug on the cover as well, but I was unable to locate the feathers anywhere. I looked in Micheals and AC Moore and even on line but with no luck; they onlykind have was the kiddy kinds that would not look very good on a grown woman. When I read through the pattern, I realized that without the feathers, it looks rather plain, so I decided to design one of my own - more suddle, and for me probably more wearable version. I found a great yarn: Paton's new yarn Silk Bamboo. You can see a sneak peak in the pictures. I am still working on it (had it on a back burner for couple of months now), but hopefully finish it by Christmas, and hopefully have a pattern by then too. I am still not sure what I am going to do for the neck opening - still in the works.

2008-12-07T10:36:00.007-05:00

Before I left for the Czech Republic, I had bought a new book - DoubleStitch by Erika and Monika Simmons. I loved most of the designs in it: the designs are very hip and fresh, and give me a new look at crochet. Most of the designs have very simple constructions and are easy to make. Even though I like many of the designs, unfortunately, most of them are not very wearable for me - I'm not that young of a chick anymore; and most of the designs are targeted towards to a younger, more daring wearer. Regardless, I fell in love with the Gypsy Duster and I wanted to make it so bad, but I had to wait until I was done with all my knitting projects for publication. I took the book and allocated yarn with me to the Czech Republic, hoping that I will have some extra time to work on it. After the knitting marathon, I had to give myself at least a week off; and then, in the middle of the summer, I started to crochet. It was coming along rather quick; and it was nice to work for a mere pleasure for a change. And since there was no rush (not like one needs a coat in the middle of a summer!), I have finished it when I got back to the States.

When crocheting, I was worried a little about the size because it looked rather small for me at first; but then when it was finished, because of the yarn weight and nature of the stitch, the coat stretched to fit perfectly. I have omitted the ties since it was hard to get in and out of the coat while just throwing it on to go the bus stop and back; but the eyelets are there if I ever wanted to use the ties. I must say it like it both ways - with the ties or without.

Project info:
Gypsy Duster

Needle and yarn

Hook: 6.0 mm (J)

Yarn: Lily Sugar'n Cream Confectionary

How much? 1 skeins = 710.0 yards (649.2m) of each color. Colors: 1 skein of White & 1 skein of Natural.

2008-12-04T09:06:00.012-05:00

So since I have not blogged in a few months, I wanted to update what I was working on during the quiet time. It was not quiet time in the knitting & crochet department though. I have worked a lot and thanks to the fact that some of the yarns have arrived later than they should have, I was forced to take some of my projects my vacation.

This booklet Dreamer 136 is a booklet of Mission Falls yarns and it introduces their new yarn line 136 Merino Superwash. This yarn is very, very soft, especially after washing and blocking. It is a 4 ply 100% Merino Wool spun finer from the same fiber as their 1824 Wool and in the same 40 colors. Each 50 gram ball comprises 136 yards of yarn. Recommended gauge is 24 stitches / 32 rows.

The books started to form in March/April 2008 and when I found out that Stefanie Japel was working on it as a coordinator and co-creator, I was very excited to work with her. The third designer contributing to this booklet was Gallina Carroll.

First I've knitted Sophie - the one button cardigan. The cardigan is worked in Stockinette Stitch with wide stripes worked in slip stitch pattern using 3 colors to add depth and dimension.

Secondly, I worked on the Margo Hat and Scarf Set. The stitch used in this set is called Bramble Stitch and it looks complicated than it is. The stripes are worked 2 rows in each color and the Bramble stitch gives it a raised look.

The last design I contributed was the Celeste sweater coat. It was initially designed as a short sleeve coat, but it was changed to long sleeves because it was a fall design. Here is the original proposal sketch:

2008-12-02T18:06:00.008-05:00

Interweave Knits, Winter 2008 is on news stands today, and I have not gotten my copy yet! I even saw it in Safeway yesterday already, but I have not gotten it in my mail. Interweave usually ships one copy and leaflet of the designer's pattern on or before the issue date, so I don't know what happened, but it seems that I just have to be patient and wait. In this issue, I have a design of mine published: Washington Square Vest. I made this vest while on vacation in the Czech Republic in the middle of the summer. This was a second project I was working on while there. First one was the Celeste
sweater coat. I was quite busy and anxious a bit being on a tight schedule to meet the deadlines and still trying to do fun things with my kids. So I was knitting in all places - including some odd places like by the swimming pool - people were looking at me funny; people in the Czech Republic are not used to knitting outside their homes. At least I have never seen anyone. Then when done, my husband had to take the vest back to the USA to mail it, since the postage was quite ridiculously expensive for sending a package overseas. Anyways, it brings memories... and it's nice to see it all done and published.

The vest was made in Tilli Tomas Elsie. It was very soft yarn and pleasure to work with. It nicely worked for the dainty lace detail around the neckline. This was my first time to work with Tilli Tomas yarn; I had always wanted to, but it's priced a bit out of my price-range. But after working with it, I would consider buying it.

The Washington Square Vest was my second project I made for Interweave Knits. My very first project was the Little Blue Sweater you could see in the Fall 2008 issue of IK. As you can tell I have not blogged in a really long time, so there's no mention of this one here. So let me tell you a bit about this little sweater.

The sweater is worked in Classic Elite Yarns Duchess. When I first knitted it up, it produced rather stiff fabric, but after washing and blocking, the yarn became very, very soft and pliable. This project is a quick knit worked on US 10½ / 6.5 mm needles. So if you need some last Christmas gifts, you may try to work this sweater.

When I designed the sweater, the rib on the lower part was to sit at waist as pictured in my pictures. The model in the magazine must have been a little taller than I anticipated; or my mannequine is of very short statue. I will keep that in mind next time I am designing. But when you are making it, measure it against your own body for the lenghts, so it fits the way you intended. Though keep in mind the row gauge as measured from your blocked swatch, so you don't have any surprises after you wash and block your finished sweater. Actually on Knitting Daily blog, Sandi Wiseheart talked about blocking great deal in past couple days, so if you want to learn more, check the blog out.

2008-09-19T00:51:00.006-04:00

Hi everyone! I hope everyone had a great summer. I surely did: I had a great visit with my family and friends in the Czech Republic. Now, I’ve been back from my travels in Europe for couple of weeks. Kids are back to school; and we’ve finally adjusted to our new routines. After being sick for a week; finally, I am ready to dive into knitting, crocheting, designing, blogging and work overall with newly restored energy and new ideas.

I am starting up my first blog entry of the year (school year) with an interview with one of the authors of a new book Casual, Elegant Knits, Faina Goberstein. This book is a great collection of wearable designs for both men and women. The book is divided into three sections: City Life; Elegant Afternoon; and Gotta Have It. You can see the whole collection on Ravelry. Without further to do, here is the interview.

Me: Hello Faina! Thank you for inviting me to be part of your book tour for your new publication Casual, Elegant Knits, which you co-wrote with Dawn Leeseman. I feel really honored to be part of it. Today, I am the last stop of your book tour; and there was much asked and said about all the great designs in this book, so I wanted to focus more on how the book came all together and on the process it took to create it. There are so many books on knitting these days; how did the idea leading to the creation of this book come about?

FAINA: Hi, Simona! First, I have to say that I am so glad to have this opportunity to talk to you. Thank you very much. I am a big admirer of your designs. Now the book. It was a natural step for us. Dawn and I are helping out at the local yarn shop HeartStrings Yarn Studio. We always talked to each other about our designs, looked for each other’s approval, and even had a little line of patterns together. Once we started talking about the design possibilities, the number of ideas was overwhelming. To sort it all out we needed to start a big project. We made a decision to write a book. It seemed to be the best outcome for us at the time. Although each of us had some individual designs that could be incorporated in the book, we needed to have a clear understanding of the book theme. We spent many hours on trying to finalize the main thought of the book. As you said, there are so many books on the market. We wanted our book to stand out. We knew that we should go with something that would showcase us as designers and some projects that we wished as knitters to have available. Thus came the main theme for the book: a knitwear ensembles for both men and women consisting of classic and stylish pieces that people would want to wear.

Me: Where did you find inspiration for your designs?

FAINA: Different sources for different designs, but in general, the love of fashion in men and women’s clothing is something we both share. Dawn is more drawn to colors and textures and I love the architecture and details of stylish clothes.

Me: With so many yarn choices out there, how do you pick the right yarn for a particular project? Do you have yarn companies send you samples and then you choose; or do you work with the yarns you are familiar with and worked with before?

FAINA: We are fortunate to be working at the yarn shop and be friends with the very supportive and encouraging owner Joanne Wilson. She helped us to get the yarn we needed for the proposal. Some of the yarns we needed she already had in her store. For my Vintage Hat and the Lacy scarf I wanted something soft and romantic with just a little mohair. For the Tweed Polo Dawn needed textured yarn that will not be too hot to wear. Once we had our proposal accepted, the yarn companies were kind enough to supply the yarn for our projects.

Me: What was the time frame of creating your new book – taking it from an idea to a proposal to the finished product?

FAINA: I would say it took us two years in all.

Me: What do you usually include in your proposal in order to catch an interest of a publisher?

FAINA: You know, we do not have that much of experience. Our proposal was the first for us and we were so lucky that the publisher liked it and even did not change anything. We did a very thorough research about publishing companies. Once we saw that Martingale & Co is a good match for us, we followed their clear instructions what to include in the proposal. We had many assays written about our idea of the book and what readership we are trying to target, we gave an initial table of contents, send few of our knitted samples, included many sketches, pattern samples, and project descriptions. I do believe that a publisher is looking for new ideas that are marketable and not over the top. Another observation: They love organized proposals. They can tell from it if a designer understands what this job involves.

Me: How did you choose your publisher?

FAINA: We printed out many publishers’ guidelines and compared them. Some publishers want you to take care of models and photography. Some ask for too much work for a proposal. Others sounded like it would not be easy to work with them. When we read very clear guidelines from Martingale we felt we have found it. It was very clear what we needed to do, what the company obligations would be and it was working for us.

Me: Some knitters may think that working on a knitting book must be lots of fun, which I hope it is; but I imagine it also must be tremendous amount of work. Taking it from my own experience working only on one pattern at a time (actually sometimes it is 2 or 3 designs at the same time for different publishers!), so I can only imagine there might be some stress involved with deadlines and such when working on a book. How do you deal with the pressure?

FAINA: Yes, you are right. It is a tremendous amount of work. There are stages where you can relax a bit, but there are some times where it is very stressful. Right at the beginning, when we had to check with the yarn companies on the yarn availability, we had our first shock. The two yarns we used for finished projects were not going to be available. We had to redo the Tailored Skirt, the Watercolor Shawl, and the Scalloped-Edge Purse. We were most of the time on the schedule. There was no stress coming from the publisher, thank G-d. After all the garments were designed and made by Dawn and me separately, the work on the writing began. We were sitting at the computer every day from 9 am to 9 or 10 pm. Dawn practically became part of our family for the time. We work together very well, so our stress only came from clarifying the patterns, correcting mistakes, writing up little romances for the patterns. Sometimes we had to show each other how did we knit a particular stitch, so we can write it in a simple way. Our knitting styles are different. I knit continental and Dawn knits the English way. I have not even realized that I am writing brioche stitch patterns suitable for continental knitters only. When she tried to knit from my description it did not look like what I meant. To incorporate both knitting styles, we had to change the language a little. Overall, I would say everything went very smoothly. Needless to say, when we put everything in a huge box and sent it away, it was a huge relief. I also have to mention two of our biggest cheerleaders and helpers: my husband Simon and Danny Leeseman. Simon was our men’s wear “consultant”, and both he and Danny were right there to help us to ship something, listen to all the details (poor men), and carry our stuff here and there. Since we were working in my house, Simon had to take care of the house and get used to the fact that his wife talked only about knitting for two years.

Me: What was the most fun about creating a new book, and what was your least favorite part?

FAINA: I always love the beginning of the design process. It does not matter if it is for a book or a magazine. It is very exciting to come up with that perfect match of the yarn, stitch patterns and the pattern outline. I also love to knit and see my creation to fruition. After that starts the part that I like the least: writing the pattern for many sizes. It is tedious and sometimes it creeps into your creativity. Not every line of the design is looking good on all sizes.

Me: Did you have a free hand on picking the models and how the garments were presented (e.g. where the pictures are taken) in the book?

FAINA: Martingale & Co took care of the layout of the book and the photography with their models. We had a big input on how we want the garments to be worn. For example, I asked the model to wear boots for the Little Flirt Skirt. We were very specific how the hats and sweaters must be worn. We also asked for the outside shots. I think I would enjoy so much be a stylist when they were shooting, but we are far from them. I have to repeat myself and say that we never were sorry that we sent the proposal to Martingale. They are great to work with. They said to us that they want our input as much as we can provide, because we know the best about our designs and we need to showcase them.

Me: I’d also like to ask you a few questions about the garments presented in the book. After my first listing through the pages, I was especially impressed with the men's knitwear presented: The garments and accessories are very classic and modern at the same time; and it’s something a guy would actually wear. From my own experience, this is particularly hard group to knit for. I made a few accessories for my husband; and I regret to say many of them are not worn much.L But my husband fell in love with the Driver's Cap, which I now HAVE to make for him! How did you come up with such a clever construction for this cap?

FAINA: Thank you, Simona. I am very proud of this hat. I actually tried to imitate the hat out of fabric that you can buy in a millinery shop. Of course, there are differences between sewing and knitting, so I had to modify quite a bit to get the shape. I made one and it was too big and too wide, so I did some changes in the design. The stitch pattern that I chose also had to remind a corduroy fabric. I think it does.

Me: I also like the Tweed Polo very much. This design is very versatile: its simple lines and one color make it very chic and classic, but this pattern can be easily used over and over again to create different looks by adding color stripes; elongating the sleeves to make polo long sleeve shirt/pullover, which for a intermediate knitter should not be very hard at all. What the inspiration behind this garment?

FAINA: Well, since Dawn is not here, I am going to answer for her. I hope I am right. In our second collection Elegant Afternoon our man had to have a lighter sweater that is suitable for the theme. We knew that it had to be a shirt with a short sleeve. The rest came from Dawn liking Polo shirts.

Me: I was quite impressed with the Triple-Pocket Bag. It quite completes the whole look of the model. How did you choose this project? Did it come at the same time with the Driver’s Cap?

FAINA: Yes, it does complement the Driver’s Cap. We thought that another felted bag would be too heavy for this collection. We also added three pockets for functionality of this bag.

Me: There have been thousands of hats made for women, but your Vintage Cap is very unique. I loved the great idea of using a tie to finish the look of this cap! What inspired you to design this hat?

FAINA: It is a combination of a very long scarf and a hat that I made for myself when I was a university student in Russia. I came up with so many different ways to wear it. So, in this hat, I attached the scarf to the hat and continued to play with it.

FAINA: Simona, I want to know what are you working on. Did you draw any of your inspirations from the styles you saw this summer in Europe or in Czech Republic in particular? I am very interested to hear about it.

Me: Faina, every year when I go to the Czech Republic, I take my stitch dictionaries, my pencils and my drawing book and hope I will work on some designs; but rarely I do find enough time to do it. I did not hold my hopes up this year. I had committed myself to 2 projects I hoped I would have finished before I left for my trip, but the late arrival of the yarn for these projects caused me to take the projects with me; so more than half of my trip I was working on it – knitting everywhere I went, even by the pool where I took my kids (some people thought I was crazy?!). Even though it’s always fun to work on a project, I have to say that this time it was a bit stressful with the deadlines and me being so far away. I could finally relax when I mailed it. After that I had to take a break from knitting for couple of weeks. Then I started a fun project - crocheting a coat for myself, which is now finished. Every year I also go to Styl & Kabo, which is an international fashion, textile, footwear and leatherwear fair in Brno. There I usually get plenty of inspiration, but this year I was unable to attend. As far as of what I am working on now: I am drawing a collection of designs for tweens, which I am hoping to be able to work into a book proposal. Your insight into a book making was very informative for me, so I know what to expect. Further, I am drawing a few proposals for couple of magazines and for a new booklet of one yarn company. Just like for you, this is one of my favorite parts of designing, so I am quite enjoying it.

Back to your book, though, what was the one question you were dying to answer but nobody asked you?

FAINA: Actually, I am so impressed with all the questions we were asked. We covered an incredible amount of topics. I do not think anything is left to discuss. I am so grateful to all 16 participants of this blog tour not only for taking their precious time to do this, but also for the depth of the questions and the interest they showed to their fellow designers. I felt that I’ve made so many friends through this experience. I also hope that we gave a good background description on our book and people will be more familiar with what to expect from our designs. We would be very happy to know that after two-year work we came up with a collection of patterns that many would want to make and wear.

Thank you, Simona, very much for the great finale of the blog tour. Good luck with your design work and I am looking forward to seeing your name in Vogue Knitting Interweave Knits, and many other magazines again and again.

Thank you, Faina! It was a pleasure to speak to you about your new book and what it took to put such a great project together.

2008-06-18T23:55:00.000-04:00

I am finally in the Czech Republic! I arrived the day before yesterday and I am glad to be finally here. It was a long trip as always, but luckily we got to sleep on the plane for about 4 hours and then on the bus for about 2 hours (they did not even wake us up on the borders between Austria and the Czech Rep. for passport control!), so we lasted through the day OK well to the evening hours and adjusted pretty quick to the time change (some 6 hours ahead of US East coast).

My mom and my sister with her 3 boys came to visit us the very first day of our arrival, so it was very nice to see my family after some 10 months. I managed to unpack pretty much all my luggage that day (and let me tell you it's a FEW pieces - one too many in accordance to some people). But I had some presents I wanted to give to my family and the way the airline restrictions are these days on the weight of each piece of luggage, I had to pack and repack and rearrange and weight and re-weight my luggage several times (it's a few day process!), so after all was packed I did not know what was where - there was no particular order to anything. And I used to have a good system for packing, since I've been doing it for many years now: I used to pack related things together for each person, so I knew where exactly to reach for things. Anyways, this way as it is now, I had to unpack everything in order to find all the presents I brought with me. But at least I have everything done and can finally relax. Well not exactly. I had brought 2 projects with me for 2 different publications and I will need to work on those while I am here, so I'd better get to it. I'd like to finish it before my husband comes here, so we can have nice vacation together without me having to knit, but I'm afraid that it's not going to happen; we'll see.

SNEAK PEEK

As I mentioned before, I have been working on my last project for Mission Falls DK Wool Booklet. I had been raving about how great it is to work with this yarn and how the colors are amazing. You can see a preview of a project #2. It will be available for release in Fall 2008, I believe. If you got a chance to go to TNNA you could have seen this and the other project there; for the rest you will have to wait till fall.

You can also see a sneak peak preview on Stefanie Japel's blog since she is also working on this booklet. Hers are worked from neck down, as far as I can tell from the pictures, so the booklet seems that it will be a great collection of patterns to knit for fall.

2008-06-16T18:00:00.000-04:00

Maybe some of you noticed that I have not been posting much in the past month. This was mainly due to the fact that I had many projects I had been working on and was trying to finish for 2 different publications before I was leaving for summer for the Czech Republic. I thought that I would manage to finish everything before I go, but it did not happen. Two of the projects I finished and sent off - some you could have possibly seen in TNNA as I was told they were there on display. But I still have 2 project I am taking with me because some of the yarn was not available for delivery in time for me to finish it, so I will be working on them in Europe.

Mission Falls DK Wool Booklet

I have been working on a new booklet for Mission Falls Yarns using their new DK Wool yarn. I feel privileged to work on this booklet together with Stefanie Japel and Galina Carroll. I love working with this yarn: it is a pleasure to work with because it is so soft and becomes even softer after washing. I did not know it was possible to have a wool so soft. If that was not enough, the colors are just amazing!

2008-06-14T22:35:00.005-04:00

Today I have gotten my issue of Interweave Crochet Summer 2008 in the mail. I was very excited about getting this issue because it features my very first crochet garment design in this magazine. It's a great honor to be published next to Robyn Chachula, Amie Hirtes, and other great designers. You can see the preview of the patterns here.

The Strung Shells Top is a simple and easy design to work on. It is worked up in a vastly accessible yarn Patons Grace. This top is very versatile. Initially I designed this top as a "Falling Leaves" pattern just by using different color combination - see a swatch below. I like how just changing a color can change a garment from summer top to fall.

2008-05-14T20:53:00.005-04:00

New issue of Knitter's Magazine Summer 2008 is coming out soon. Now you can cast your vote here and guess which cover the Knitter's Editors will choose. I am flattered and excited that one of my designs - the Marigold - was chosen to be considered to appear on the cover! You can see a picture on the left.

2008-04-27T23:47:00.005-04:00

Over the weekend I have knitted the Marina - Leaves Top for my eldest daughter. Below you can see some pictures. It is worked in Caron's Simply Soft (great inexpensive and washable/dryable yarn - great for kids) . It was a quick knit (about 7 hours for this size). It's worked in round; it's a seamless knit with no sewing necessary; you just have to weave in ends!

Name: Eliska's Leaves Top

Pattern: Marina - Leaves Top

Size: 10 yrs

Needle and yarn

Needle: US 8 / 5.0 mm

Yarn: Caron Simply Soft

How much? 1 skeins = 330.0 yards (301.8m)

Color: Plum Wine #9722

2008-04-23T00:13:00.010-04:00

Today I have been working on reformatting one of my patterns. I took some new photos of it which shows better the product. Here it is:

This is a PATTERN for an easy to make hat and scarf set with interesting stitch using only purl and knit rows creating totally reversible fabric, so you get 2-in-1 hat and scarf set! The hat is worked in a round on circular needles all in one piece including the I-cord with "ball". No sewing necessary. The scarf is worked from side to side in rows.

SIZE:
Hat: S/M (M/L)- head circumference 21" (23").
Scarf: S/M (M/L) - 63" (69")x 6" (6")
Size shown: M/L on 21 1/2" model head circumference

MATERIALS
The yarn is MEDIUM - Worsted/Aran weight
The yarn used in the M/L sample is Caron Simply Soft yarn - 1 skein of each color Grey Heather (MC), Soft Blue (CC), and Sage (CC).

NEEDLES
S/M:
Size US #6 (4.0 mm) circular needle 16" long (for hat), 32" long (for scarf), one set (5) dpn needles US size #6 (4.0 mm), and 2 dpn needles US size 5 (3.75 mm).
M/L:
Size US #7 (4.5mm) circular needle 16" long (for hat), 32" long (for scarf), one set (5) dpn needles US size #7 (4.5 mm), and 2 dpn needles US size 6 (4.0 mm).

GAUGE
To achieve either of the sizes, adjust needle size to get the following gauges:
17 (15.5) sts and 40 rows = 4"/10cm over the Pattern Stitch

You can buy the pattern through Ravelry's purchase download or in my on-line store here.

2008-04-03T23:26:00.008-04:00

I have heard from many of you about your liking the Lace Cardi (#20) from Spring VK, and I feel your frustration with having the instruction only in one size. Unfortunately, the way the lace stitch count and decreases worked, it just mathematically did not add up to make it in more sizes. So what I’d suggest to those of us who are bigger than the 34” is to use slightly thicker yarn and thus getting a smaller gauge per inch. I have created a chart where you can find the size closer to yours and the gauges needed to achieve it, while using the same pattern as printed in Vogue Knitting.

DISCLAIMER: The instructions below are only informative guidelines. You may try to use them to achieve the result similar to Lace Cardigan featured in VK. Be aware that these were NOT tech edited and have not been test knitted. Some measurements may differ because your row gauge may be different, so you may need to make changes to fit it to your body measurements.

I'd tried to calculate the measurements to best of my abilities, but since your row gauge might (and most likely will) be different, I'd recommend to make the sleeves first, since they are going to be slightly wider than in the pattern (see the schematics below). Then when you make the body, adjust the underarms height so that you can fit the sleeve caps in comfortably.

To achieve following sizes, you should work it in the gauges (# sts = 4") as you can see below.

You should get following measurements for the sizes as you can see in the schematics (click to enlarge them):

To achieve the measurements in the schematics, I made a few modifications to original pattern.

Under RIBBED WAIST: .... work in k3, p3 rib for "3 1/4, 3 1/4, 3 1/4, 3 1/2, 3 3/4, 4)", .... Then work in waterfall patt for (5 1/2, 5 1/2, 5 1/2, 5 1/2, 5 1/2, 5 3/4)".

Under BACK: ..... bind off for armhole as written in the pattern; then work even until armhole measures (6 1/2, 7, 7 1/4, 7 3/4, 8, 8 1/2)". (then work neck and shoulder shaping.)

Under FRONT: .... work underarm shaping as written in the pattern; AT THE SAME TIME, after underarm measures (1/4, 3/4, 1, 1 1/2, 1 3/4, 2 1/4)", from the neck edge bind off .... (work the front neck shaping)

If you have any suggestions or changes that might help others to make this cardi in the larger size, please let me know. I hope these basic guidelines will help you to work your size successfully.

2008-04-01T23:28:00.006-04:00

What a beautiful day today. It did not start very pretty though; it was pouring and dark and cloudy in the morning, but by noon it got hot and sunny. I ran some errands during early afternoon - the regular grocery stores and stuff, and when I got home, I have received my bargain yarn I have gotten on Elann.com. Here are some pictures and stats.

Name: Pegasus
Brand: Elann

Weight: Worsted / 10 ply (9 wpi)

Yardage: 93 yards (85 meters)

Unit weight: 50 grams (1.76 ounces)

Gauge: 19.0 = 4 inches

Needle size: US 7 / 4.5 mm

Fibers: 52.5% Mercerized Cotton, 47.5% Viscose Rayon

Texture: Plied

There is a semi-metallic quality woven into this yarn that makes it really stand out.

Machine wash?: yes, Machine Wash Cold, Gentle/ Dry Flat

Name: Camila

Brand: Elann

Weight : DK / 8 ply (11 wpi)

Yardage:123 yards (112 meters)

Unit weight: 50 grams (1.76 ounces)

Gauge: 23.0 = 4 inches

Needle size: US 3 / 3.25 mm

Fibers :50% Cotton/ 50% Linen

Machine wash? yes; Machine Wash Cold, Gentle/ Dry Flat

Name: Peruvian Quechua

Elann

Weight : DK / 8 ply (11 wpi)

Yardage: 122 yards (112 meters)

Unit weight: 50 grams (1.76 ounces)

Gauge: 22.0 = 4 inches

Needle size US 4 - 6 or 3.5 - 4mm

Fibers: 65% Alpaca, 35% Tencel

Texture: Plied

Unfortunately I did not have time to put my hands on it today. When I get a new yarn, I have to knit a swatch at least in Stockinette stitch, just to feel how it feels and behaves. I have a few designs in mind for the Pegasus, but first I must swatch it to know how it will work. I got only one ball of each of the Camila and Peruvian Quechua just for that reason of making a swatch to see what I can do with it. I read about the yarns on Ravelry and wanted to try them for myself.

Time to go to bed...

2008-03-27T20:53:00.008-04:00

I wanted to share with you a new pattern of mine that is published in the upcoming Spring 2008 issue of Knitter's magazine #90. It is a very easy pattern to work - all the knitting is done in straight lines. The 2x2 Rib pattern around the waist gives this top a nice body fitting waist shaping. The sample is worked in Universal ROZETTI Alora . The yarn feels very light and airy; and it is perfect for a summer knit like this.

2008-03-26T09:33:00.017-04:00

OK, so I finally got my Spring/Summer 2008 issue of Vogue Knitting. I have noticed that the details of my Long Vest (#6) are not very easily seen. This is unfortunately by the nature and color of the yarn. When I took my pictures at first with flash to portray the true color of the vest, I could not see the detailing either. Then I turned the flash off, and the detail became visible and those are the picturess you can see here; though, the color appears more as a plum brown. The color in reality is just like you can see in the magazine.

The yarn used in this sample is Conjoined Creations Dance Party.
The retailers in your area carrying this yarn are listed here. I would recommend using this yarn. Please make a swatch. Measure your gauge before you wet block it; then measure your gauge after you wet block it. This yarn stretched about 30% lengthwise for me. After checking your after-blocking gauge, use the row gauge for measuring the lengths given in the pattern. E.g. if you after-blocking your gauge is 4.5 rows per 1" (2.5 cm), and the pattern says work until piece measures 7 3/4", it would mean you knit until you have worked 7.75*4.5 rows = 34 rows. This might not measure the 7 3/4" at the time of knitting; but it will once you wet-block it.

2008-03-21T10:54:00.005-04:00

Oh I forgot; some of you guys asked me if I can post some more pictures of the Lace Cardigan and the Long Vest. Here are couple of pictures of my Lace Cardi (the Vest is coming in following post), so you can see the details of it. I have not gotten my Spring/Summer 2008 issue of the Vogue Knitting, yet. I think it should be on the stands on April 1 for those of you who want to make it. If I have not said it already, the yarn (Blue Sky Alpaca: Alpaca & Silk) is a dream to knit with.

Happy Spring!

2008-03-21T09:45:00.006-04:00

Happy first full day of Spring everyone! I am very excited about this time of year when everything is getting ready to bloom and warmer weather is just around the corner. I love getting up with a sun filling my room and the birds singing when we are having breakfast. It reminds me of my childhood, of careless days, of everything fresh and new.

Today our spring break starts and it's nice to have the kids at home and not having to rush anywhere. The kids enjoy playing with their dolls and playhouses and most importantly they HAVE the time to do that. My eldest is a very creative one. She had bought herself a plaid painting kit and some canvas the other day to learn to make her own pictures and I think that's what she's going to do today, to practice so she can create some art for her room. I can't wait to see what she'll create. Kids imagination is vast. As adults, our minds are filled with so many "important" things we need to do in a day that there's not as much time left for creativity as some of us would like to. Thanks for having knitting in our lives; it can be squeezed into a few minutes here and there everyday and make our creativity unleash even in our hectic lives.

Currently I've been working on a project for a magazine and that's what I will do today. We will take it easy and enjoy the day without having to do anything. When I knit I like to listen to my kids reading. We take some of my childhood books in Czech and I let the kids read them to me. It serves a few purposes: They practice reading in Czech, since they don't get to speak it as much as I'd like them to; and it broadens their vocabulary. They enjoy speaking in English more since it is the language of their friends and at this point Czech is the "unpopular" language with them. Further, this gives us an opportunity to spend some quiet time together. Sometimes we knit together and get to talk. These are times I have to treasure and remember before they hit the teenage years and it will be "boring" to do this with Mom.

2008-03-13T23:40:00.007-04:00

The fashion preview of the new designs of the Vogue Knitting Spring/Summer 2008 issue is up on their website. You can see it here. I have 2 patterns of mine featured in this issue (see pictures above). It is the Lacy Cardi (the white one) and the Cabled Long Cardi (the brown one).

The Lacy Cardi is worked in soft and lovable Blue Sky Alpaca Alpaca & Silk yarn. It is a dream yarn to work with. It's very soft and after it is blocked it's even softer and reveals any lace (open) work beautifully. Be sure , though, to measure your gauge after blocking your swatch, because the gauge changes after blocking. If you skip that step, you are going to end up with a garment bigger than you intended after you wash it. You can read my review and some details about the yarn here.

The same goes for the Cabled Long Cardi . It is worked in Conjoined Creations Dance Party yarn and the gauge changes after washing and blocking the swatch. So please do NOT skip on this step before you start knitting to ensure a good fit. But I am sure you guys know all that it is crucial if you are working on a wearable garment. You can get away with skipping this step if he finished measurements of your FO don't matter (e.g. blanket). I have talked more about the Dance Party yarn in my previous post here.

2008-03-07T11:39:00.009-05:00

I have taken a little break from blogging, since I've been quite busy. I know, who isn't. I have gotten 2 projects to work on for mags, yey. I really enjoy this process of creating and seeing my sketches to come to life, what can I say.

Cape Collar Jacket
I have finished knitting the Vladimir Teriokhin's Cape Collar Jacket and blocked it, though I had not had a chance to sew it together yet, so it's just sitting there and waiting. But that's OK, I will get to it when I have time. I can't wait to try it on.

New Store
I have been also trying to figure out what website to use for selling my patterns other than Etsy store. Ravelry (you are on Raverly, right?) will be offering a direct PDF download upon payment, so the customer does not have to wait 24 hrs to have their pattern e-mailed to them. I am pretty good about sending the pattern within a few hours of a customer's purchasing (sometimes even minutes); though it is not the best way. Further, I am limited on what size of a document I may send via e-mail, so I cannot send a document having as many pictures as I'd like, or I have to compromise on the quality of the document. I like to include many pictures with my patterns so one can see the details of what they are working on. That's what I want in a pattern - to see what I am doing. So now I am working on formatting my patterns to a same layout, so when a customer purchases multiple patterns they can put it in a binder and easily find what they are looking for. As for the store, I think at this point I will just create my own website to offer patterns for sale. It is somewhat time consuming, but it will be worth it in a long run.

Yarn Review
I wanted to share a review on a new yarn I got my hands on. It's a Classic Elite Yarns Duchess. I just love it. It is a bulky yarn: it knits up on US 10.5 (6.5 mm) needles producing a gauge of 3 1/2 sts to an inch (14 sts = 4"/10cm) and makes a knitting project fast. But that's not why I like it. Its composition is 40% Merino, 28% Viscose, 10% Cashmere, 7% Angora, 15% Nylon. It has 75 yd (69 m) in 1¾ oz(50g) and it feels very nice against the skin. When knitting it seems to produce rather a stiff fabric, which scared me at first. But when it's washed and blocked it softens and feels nice and soft. It is easy to knit with; it does not split at all, and looks as a single ply yarn. In my opinion, it is a great yarn for a beginner. I will definitely use it again.

2008-02-24T01:01:00.003-05:00

This is my middle daughter's first real project - a skirt for her American Girl doll. She learned on this piece how to purl! Since her tension is not yet always the same, that created a nice element to her skirt where some of the sts are longer thus giving a feel of a lace panel in the skirt. I was very proud of her. She is a quite a fast knitter; she made it in a matter of a few hours on Friday. Our schools were closed because of bad weather; and she did not waste her time and made her doll a nice piece of a wardrobe. Later she styled her doll into a swim wear and found herself a piece of fabric she knitted last weekend and used it for a towel. She is my little fashion stylist.

Project info:
For the skirt she used US #8 (5.00mm) needles and Bernat Soy Natural Blend yarn.

2008-02-20T15:12:00.004-05:00

For past couple weeks I have been working on a jacket designed by Vladimir Teriokhin issued in the Winter 2008 issue of Vogue Knitting. I have chosen to modify the collar a bit so it fits my body frame better; though I like the original collar design, I don't think it would look good on me. I have heard about some errors involve with this pattern by other folks, who contacted me to get help, so in the future post I might try to sum up some of the errors with the pattern as I and others see it.

Right now, I just wanted to share some pictures of the jacket. These pictures were taken about a week ago and since then I have joined the collar and sewn the shoulder seams and the back neck seem. I also worked the support for the collar, which I did not really fully understood from the instructions. But I had to modify that support since I have made a different collar. I made the support more like a lining for the collar and I'll see how it'll work. Also I have finished both of the sleeves and I am wet blocking all the pieces but the final sewn-on 18-st cable, which I am still working on at the moment. Now I have lots of sewing to work on. I guess I will turn some fun music on and try to do it in as short time as possible. Sewing is not my favorite thing to do, I confess.

2008-02-08T10:07:00.000-05:00

Yes, I have just finished another Bell Sleeve Shrug! So now each of my girls have one of their own. They really like to wear them a lot, even though my girl in this pictures was not in the mood of taking pictures, can you tell? This time I used different yarn yet again. See the info below.

Bell Sleeve Shrug #3
Pattern: Bell Sleeve Shrug
Size: 8 yrs (she's 7 yrs old)
Yarn: Caron Simply Soft - 1 ball!
Needles: Us #8 (5 mm)

Couple of days ago I have sent a few proposal to a mag publisher for summer issue. I love the swatching and sketching and designing part, but I always dread doing the administrative part of it: the actual scanning of everything into the computer, filing and making comprehensive proposals themselves, printing, packaging - in short, the office work. So I am always happy when that's done; and now I can hope that they like one or two of the designs.

I have finished all three shrugs for my girls. I have also finished the Men's Ladder socks - though I have not finished writing the pattern yet. I am still debating if I should send it to Knitty or not. I am itching to post the pictures and put the pattern on Etsy. I'll see what kind of pictures we can take of it because, honestly, I think you have to have awesome pictures (plus of course a great pattern to go with it) in order to be considered for being published in Knitty. But there's still time, I think the due date for submission is March or so. I should check it out, just to make sure not to miss the deadline.

Teriokhin Cape Jacket
Now I have started working on my next project for me. I really like a few designs in the new Vogue Knitting magazine. I chose to work on the Cape Collar Jacket (#16) by Vladimir Teriokhin. I love the silhouette and the style of the design. I like the collar on the model; but not for me, so I will modify it to make it not so wide, more traditional width. I am about 20% through the project and it's coming along rather quick, since I am actually following a written pattern! So this is a fun and pleasure knitting for me. I am using different yarn; I bought Bernat Soy Natural Blend. I love the drape of it. I am using US #8 (5 mm) needles and I am getting the same 19 st per 4" gauge as they are with #4 needles. I guess the yarn they used in the sample must be very soft, fluffy yarn, since it's also medium weight yarn; or the sample knitter knits very loosely. At left you can see some pictures of the jacket in progress.

2008-02-08T10:01:00.001-05:00

The new Vote on the Cover feature for the new spring issue of Knitters magazine #90 is up on the Knitting Universe website. If you want, you can check it out here and vote. This time it's none of my designs on the cover, but they all look pretty exciting. What's your favorite? So go and vote and see what the editors are going to choose at the end.

2008-02-03T22:12:00.000-05:00

This weekend I was testing the new pattern Bell Sleeve Shrug. I made it for my youngest daughter in size 6yrs. She is only 4 years old but wears size 5/6.

Bell Sleeve Shrug #2
Size: 6
Yarn: Red Heart Ltd. Soft Yarn Solids
Needles: US#8 (5mm)

Now I am going to work on the size 8 yrs because my middle daughter want one too.

2008-01-30T14:21:00.000-05:00

Thank you guys for offering to test knit for me. As of now, I have enough knitters to try the new pattern. The pattern will be available in my Etsy store as soon as we're done testing it.

2008-01-29T16:37:00.000-05:00

The pattern for the Bell Sleeve Shrug is done. I have offered couple knitters the opportunity to knit this garment for free in exchange for feedback on the pattern. I have one knitter to test-knit the size 4 yrs. If you'd like to test-knit the shrug in sizes 12 yrs or 14 yrs, please contact me. You can just leave a comment on the site; I will get back to you.

Please see previous posts for further information on the project.

2008-01-28T23:58:00.000-05:00

Today, I have been working on the pattern for the Bell Sleeve Shrug. Now I just need to proofread it and find some test knitters. If you'd like to try the pattern and would be willing to give me feedback on it, please contact me and I'll send it to you free of charge. This is a fast knit; it should not take longer than a week to complete. I'd be most interested to have somebody knit the size 14 yrs or 4 yrs. Below are the measurements for each size

SIZES:
4 (6, 8, 10, 12, 14) yrs

FINISHED MEASUREMENTS:
Back 9 3/4 (11, 11 3/4, 13, 14, 14 3/4)"- measured from underarm to underarm; it's supposed to have a tight fit.

Gauge:
17 sts and 23 rows = 4" square over St st with US size #8 (5mm).

You will need Aran weight yarn and circular and a set of 5 dpn needles size US #8 (5mm).

See other information 2 posts below this one.

2008-01-27T22:13:00.001-05:00

Yesterday we had gone to visit our Czech friends. We had great time and so did the kids. We came home quite late, so today we took it easy and hung around the house.

My kids go to Brownies troop and on their next try-out they are doing Stitching. So I have picked to volunteer this Try-It. I have bought some felt and we'll be working on making Brownies purses and heart pouches for whatever (bonbons, messages, etc.) . And me being a pattern writer, I have made step-by-step picture instructions of what we'll be doing. I hope this way it will be easier for the kids to know what to do; and if necessary they'll be able to finish it at home should we run out of time at our meeting. Below you can see the simple projects.

Swatching
Today I have been also re-working some swatches for felted bag using Patons Classic Wool Merino. I have finished it on Friday, though when I was felting in in my washing machine, my neighbor came over and I got distracted and over felted it. Ugh! So I am doing it again because I feel this is going to look quite nice if done properly. The yarn knits up and felts quite nicely if fabric is knitted; though I tried another swatch that was crochet and that one did not felt so good. I think the crocheted article must take much longer to felt than knitted fabric.

Men's Socks
I am still working also on the men's socks; I have about 4 more inches to go. So hopefully it will done soon. I can't wait for my hubby to wear it. They should be pretty warm.

2008-01-25T18:03:00.001-05:00

I wanted to share some pictures of my daughter's shrug she was begging me for for longest time. I finally made it for her before Christmas; and she's been wearing it since. It is a rather quick knit worked from top downwards all in one piece without any sewing involved. The sleeves flare a bit at the ends forming bell sleeves style. To finish, stitches are picked up along the neck, front, and back edges to knit the edging on. I have started writing the pattern for this, but got busy with other projects over the holidays. So I have to get back to it; and hopefully I will make it for the February pattern of the month.

Bell Sleeve Shrug info:
Sizes: 4 - 14. Pictured in size 10.
Yarn: 3 balls of Caron Simply Soft Shadows 3oz/ 85 g; 150 yd; autumn color.
Needle size: US #8 (5.00 mm) circular needles and 1 set of 5 dpns.
Gauge: 15 sts and 25 rows = 4" square over St st with US #8 needles.

I liked working with the yarn; it was nice and soft. But when my daughter started to wear it, it started to pill on the sleeves somewhat. Yesterday I machine washed and dried it; and it did not shed or pill at all (which I was pleasantly surprised); only some of the pill on the sleeves stayed. But the yarn is a good value for the money and is great for the kids.

2008-01-19T20:27:00.000-05:00

It's been a while since I wrote anything on my blog, so I want to take a moment and wish you all happy, healthy and productive new year 2008.

December flew by so quickly for me that I did not even notice that I have not blogged a bit. Many things happened work-wise that I will have to go bit by bit in the upcoming blogs. I've been designing and swatching as usual. I really enjoy this time when I am dreaming up stuff; on the other hand, I have so many ideas that I get overwhelmed sometimes and have to try to turn my mind off. I just do not have enough time to work on all my ideas. and that's what's probably overwhelming. Anyways.

Scarf with Hood
I'd like to share with you a new pattern, which is published in a new book Vogue Knitting on the Go: Cables: Mittens, Hats & Scarves. The pattern is for a Scarf with Hood. The pattern info is listed below.

Pattern Information

Hood measurements: 10 1/2” x 13 1/2
Scarf measurements: 8 1/2” x 60”

Needles: US 8 / 5.0 mm

Yarn: Rowan RYC Cashsoft Aran

10 skeins = 950.0 yards (868.7m)

Color: #1 oat

Gauge: 19 stitches and 26 rows = 4 inches in St st

This book is now available for purchase on Amazon.com here.

I loved working on this scarf. The yarn is so soft and yummy, you just want to cuddle in it. I have to make one for myself; it will definitely be used a lot in this time of a year. Below you can see the scarf from different angles. Unfortunately, in the book you can see only one pictures, so here you can get a closer look of how the scarf is made.

Man's Socks
I've been working on a pair of socks for my husband. I am using the Regia sock yarn - the design line Kaffe Fassett. I really like how they are turning out. I knitted one just to see if it will be big enough for my husband, and it fitted well, so now I am working on the other one. I will not post any pictures yet, since I am deciding if I should submit the pattern to Knitty.com. I will know once I am finished if I do it or not. I have to say that I really like working with this yarn; I am using US #1 size needles and despite the small size, the socks are coming along rather quick.

Girls Shrug
My daughter have been begging me to knit her a long sleeve shrug for over a year, and I never seemed to find time to do that. So at the begging of December I have made her one. I have also started working on the pattern, though, I have not finished it yet. I am trying to make it again in a wide range of sizes. I have to look for the pictures, I will post them in my upcoming blogs.

CROCHET
In past few months I had been brainstorming new ideas for garment designs, and some of the ideas that came to my mind where hard to be completed as knitted projects. So I have been brushing up on my crochet skills - and truth be told - I am learning tons of new tricks and stitches, and it's opening totally a new world to me. I had gotten myself a few crochet stitch books for Christmas, ye! I like listing through them because I get quite inspired. Right now I have finished a new pattern for a publication; and I am very pleased how it turned out. I hope they like it too.

Anyways, it's nice to be back. I have also skipped on my KNIT TIPS. I have to say that I am running low on ideas for the tips. So if you have any problem with your knitting, let me know, I will try to answer it and possibly turn in into a TIP.

2007-11-27T16:43:00.000-05:00

Well, not exactly. I am not personally on the cover, but rather my design of a felted crochet rug I have made for Vogue Knitting on the Go: Felted Crochet book is. This is very exciting. On the left you can see the image of the book.

The title is available for sale now; you can order it here. It was released in January 2008. Anyways, I wanted to share this news and a few pictures of the rug.

I really had lots of fun making this rug because it is very easy and the repetitiveness of the project is quite soothing. The different colors make it interesting and give it a modern look - if I say so myself :). You can make it your own just by using your favorite colors. Here are a few pictures of the rug and the process of making it.

2007-11-25T22:38:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone had a nice Thanksgiving and could squeeze couple hours of knitting in. I certainly did: I was a busy bee. I have finished my project for Knitter's magazine. All I have to do now is to proofread the pattern, pack it all and send it off.

I have also finished cardigan for me:

Name: Forecast
Designer: Stefanie Japel
Yarn: 4.5 skeins of Red Heart Soft Yarn
Size: 39"
Needle Sizes: US #8 and US #5
Patter: found on Knitty here (free pattern)

Modifications I made:
I have used different yarn with different gauge, so I had knitted a bigger size than I would otherwise. I have knitted the torso longer; therefore, I used 2 more buttons than called for in a pattern. And biggest change I made is that I omitted the collar and added my own by knitting it on after the cardi was done.

How you can work the same collar as mine:
If you want to do the same change, skip the first 12 rows of the pattern. With smaller needles, CO 78 (78, 86, 86, 86) sts and start working as of pattern from Row 13.

When the cardi is done, with smaller needles and WS facing you, pick up 80 (80, 88, 88, 88) sts along the neck edge starting at the point where button band meets the fronts. Next row (WS of collar): p3, k2, *p2, k2*; rep from * to last 3 sts, p3. Next row: k3, p2, *k2, p2; rep from * to last 3 sts, k3. Rep these 2 rows until the collar measures 1 1/2" short of desired length. Then work 1 row of St st, *3 rows of Rev St st, 2 rows of St st; rep once more from *, 3 rows of Rev St st. Bind off in pattern in the last row. Then CO sts along the collar edges in the same manner as for button bands and work 4 rows of Rev St st. Bind off in the last row. Finish by sewing the band to neck edge.

Here you can see the detail of he collar.

2007-11-21T22:27:00.000-05:00

Today we went for grocery shopping for our Thanksgiving meal tomorrow, so we'll be cooking all day, though I hope I will squeeze some knitting time in.

I have not been posting for a while. I had been working on a project for Knitter's mag and I am about 3/4s done. Speaking of Knitter's, I have gotten an e-mail newsletter from Berocco; and they have a project worked in their yarn on the cover. So for you guys who have hard time finding the Knitter's gallery on their web site here it is - their Winter 2007 KNitter's #89 preview.

I have also been working on my Forecast Cardigan by Stefanie Japel. I have half of a second sleeve to go to be finished. I want to figure out if and what kind of collar I want to add to the cardi. I really like how it's turning out.

I'll post some pics tomorrow.

Happy Thanksgiving to you all.

2007-11-12T00:56:00.000-05:00

Today I worked on Forecast some more. I am really enjoying this easy and relaxing knitting on this cardigan. I have worked about 260 yards of yarn today. I think I am about half day done. See my progress in the pictures.

NEW PATTERN
Also today, I have written a pattern for a new project I will be working on for Knitter's magazine. I am looking forward to this one. Tomorrow I'd like to jump on it and start knitting it. For right now I will have to put the Forecast on hold or work on it on the go. I do not like to take my "to-be-published" projects on the go with me because I do not want to make mistakes and having to rip it out; and most importantly, I do not want it to get dirty. You know how it is with luck.

2007-11-10T17:34:00.000-05:00

So today I have formatted and finalized my new pattern Red Cabled Cardigan Hoodie. It is a body-fitting cardigan with a hood forming a nice collar when it's down. The fronts have a simple cable run from bottom to top; both the back and the sleeves are worked in a simple rib pattern, which makes this cardigan to fit perfectly to a body without any shaping required.

The cardigan is worked in one piece to underarms and then divided into fronts and back and finished separately to minimize sewing. Further, the cardigan was designed, so that no button holes are worked in; instead, the closure is made up of 4-stitch I-cord tubes sewn on once the cardigan is finished - very simple. This creates a decorative element to this cardigan. The cardigan could be also worn without the buttons and closed only with a belt.

It comes in a wide range of sizes (listed below) and I have included also the materials needed to make it. Now you can buy the pattern in my Simona's Designs Shop here, or you can click on under Buy My Designs Here to get to my store.

SIZES:
2 (4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16) yrs

FINISHED MEASUREMENTS:
Chest - 22 (24, 25, 28, 29, 31, 32, 33)"
Length - 12 (14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 23, 24)"
Shown in size 10 yrs (chest - 29").

MATERIALS:
* 4 (5, 6, 6, 6, 7, 8, 9) 1.75oz./50g ball (each approx. 137yd / 125m) of Elian Klasik (100% Acrylic) in color #212 red; OR 450 (600, 680, 750, 830, 960, 1100, 1240) of any comparable DK weight yarn.
* One pair of circular US size #6 (4mm) 24" or 29" or 32" long (depending on the size you are making) needles OR SIZE TO OBTAIN CORRECT GAUGE
* One pair of dpn US size #3 (3.25mm) needles OR SIZE TO OBTAIN CORRECT GAUGE
* Cable needle (cn) - optional if you can cable w/o it
* Stitch markers
* Stitch holders
* Tapestry needle
*5 wooden 1 1/4"/ 3 cm long buttons with 2 holes

GAUGE:
*22 sts and 32 rows = 4* square over St st with US size #6 (4mm)
*27 sts and 32 rows = 4* square over Rib patt with US size #6 (4mm)

NEW WIP
As I have stated in my last post, I have started knitting Stefanie Japel's Forecast cardi, which I like very much. I am posting a few pictures as I promised. You can see that I have omitted the collar because I don't think it would look very good on me being rather top heavy; even though I like the on Stefanie. What I am planning to do is to knit on a more conventional collar in a pattern of the bottom part. I'll see how it goes.

I am using a Red Heart Soft Yarn (because I got tons of it on sale - $10 for the project!). I hope I am not going to regret it and that the yarn will hold up good. Does any of you have any good/bad experience with this yarn? Let me know. I don't mind using it, since I am mainly knitting this to learn how the process of knitting from top to bottom works. But I still would like to wear the cardi.

2007-11-08T23:36:00.000-05:00

Couple of days ago I had started knitting Stefanie Japel's Forecast I have seen on Ravelry.com. I loved the fact that she designs her sweaters and cardigans from top down to minimize sewing. I'd like to knit a few top-down garments to be able to design a few of my ideas that way. I think it is a great technique; the only drawback I noticed is that you can design sweaters with yokes or with raglan sleeves only(at least from what I have seen so far).

I have seen Eiknit's (her screen name on Ravelry) Forecast and she had a very interesting tip she found on the net. Here is the link for it. The lady works bobbles without turning her work to purl the bobble. She works the bobble as to work an I-cord by sliding just knitted stitches on left needle and knitting them again. Again, you can see the tutorial here. I have tried to knit the bobbles that way on this garment and I like it very much: It is easier to make the bobble.

I have been making a little bit of progress on the Forecast and I am hoping to post some pics tomorrow. It is nice to knit something that already has a pattern; this way I can just grab my bag and make it on the go.

2007-11-08T01:02:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I have gotten a book in a mail I had been waiting for some time because I was not sure when it was going to be published exactly. It is the Stitch Style: Socks, where I have 2 of my sock designed featured.

I got the book with this first cover, though on Amazon the book is featured with the 2nd cover.

The first socks featured are Vandyke Lace Socks. These were fun to make because I had combined an eyelet stitch pattern with the Vandyke Lace Stitch (one of my favorite stitches) and it turned into a nice pair of socks. Further I added a crochet scalloped edge and ties to the cuff. This was my first time knitting toe-up socks.

I also made a pair for my daughter, in reality these were the original design, which I altered to fit the women's size anklets.

The second socks featured in the book are Textured Socks with Flowers. This pair of socks is knitted from cuff down to toe. I worked it in cellular stitch pattern. I embellished the socks with knitted flowers and dangling beads.

Cabled Cardigan Hoodie
For past couple days I had been working on the pattern and I have finally finished it. Now I am formatting it and putting pictures, charts and photos together, so it should be done within couple of days.

2007-11-01T00:02:00.001-04:00

As I might have said before, I have finally gotten my invitation to join Ravelry. I have spent tooo much time on it so far. It's a really good place to see what other knitters and designers are up to, what's on their needles. I love to look what others are working on with the yarns I have. I love the forums and group chats.

On Monday I have sent off my 2 projects I was working on for Vogue Knitting. It was a rather short deadline, so I was pulling a few late nighters, but I am glad I have finished on time. Now I have time to focus on other things.

First, I desperately needed to clean up. When I design or work on a project, I do not have time put things away and pull them out again because I work throughout the day an hour here and an hour there, depending on what my kids are doing, so it would be a waste of my precious time to tidy up each and every time. But it is really hard for me to see the mess around me- see pics below (it stresses me out - I'm probably weired that way), so I was happy I had some time to clean up yesterday (how odd that I was happy to clean up!?). Anyways.

Here I am organizing my magazines and other materials, so I can find what I am looking for. Big problem for me when in the mess-zone, I know what I am looking for, but I don't know where exactly it is located. Frustrating. Though, not anymore (at least for right now). :-)

Right now I am writing a pattern for the Red Cabled Hoodie Cardigan for children. I'd like to have it done in a few days (only if it was not for the Ravelry and me spending too much time on it, ah) . I'd like to list it under this month's featured patterns. Further, my eldest daughter has been nagging me for a shrug for some time, so I am swatching for that as well. I am thinking I am going to give a try to designing it from top, since I want to make it an easy knit. We'll see, I'd like it to be easy enough for kids to make it themselves.

2007-10-24T01:30:00.000-04:00

Here are finally some pictures as I had been promising.

Stitches East 2007 - Baltimore:

Brand: Comfort Berroco

Worsted : 10 ply (9 wpi)

Yardage: 210 yd

Unit weight: 100 grams (3.53 ounces)

Gauge: 18.0 - 20.0 = 4 inches

Needle size: US 8 - 9 or 5 - 5.5mm

Fibers: Nylon, Acrylic

Texture: Smooth

Machine wash?: yes

I had worked a swatch to get a feel for it. It is very soft and smooth. I think it will pleasure to work with it.

Then I got some sock yarn:

Name: Extrafine Brand

Mondial

Weight: DK / 8 ply (11 wpi)

Yardage: 193

Unit weight: 50 grams (1.76 ounces)

Gauge:26.0 = 4 inches

Needle size: US 2 - 3 or 2.75 - 3.25mm

Fibers Merino

100% Extrafine Merino

Regia Design Line Kaffe Fassett

Brand

Schachenmayr nomotta

Weight

Fingering / 4 ply (14 wpi)

Yardage: 230

Unit weight: 50 grams (1.76 ounces)

Gauge: 30.0 = 4 inches

Needle size: US 0 - 2½ or 2 - 3mm

Fibers: Wool, Nylon

Texture: Plied

Machine wash? yes

75% New Wool, 25% Polyamide (nylon)

VK project yarns:

Conjoined creations

I do not have any more info about the yarn at this time . You can look it up on the web, I suppose, ( I guess I have to research it on-line myslef). I had worked a little swatch to see how it behaves. When unblocked, it has rather a rough feel. When blocked, it elongates and smooths out - then it has a beautiful sheen and drape to it.

Blue Sky Alpacas - Alpaca & Silk

Alpaca Silk
Brand: Blue Sky Alpacas

Weight: DK / 8 ply (11 wpi)

Yardage: 146

Unit weight: 50 grams (1.76 ounces)

Gauge: 20.0 - 24.0 = 4 inches

Needle size: US 3 - 5 or 3.25 - 3.75mm

Fibers: Silk, Alpaca

Texture: Plied

50% alpaca, 50% silk.

Hand wash or dry clean. Wash in tepid water using a mild soap. Do not twist. Shape and dry flat on a towel.

Again, I made a swatch to see how it behaves. It's a pleasure to work with.

Name: Goshen

Valley Yarns

Worsted / 10 ply (9 wpi)

Yardage: 92

Unit weight:50 grams (1.76 ounces)

Gauge: 4.5 = 1 inch

Needle size: US 8 / 5.0 mm

Fibers: Cotton, Silk, Other

"incredibly soft with an elegant sheen. Garments will not pill. a great yarn for textured stitches and cables." (From the catalog.). 48% peruvian cotton, 46% modal(R), 6% silk; hand wash with eucalan.

Shelves Project accomplished

Quick and easy project (easy because my husband was doing it :) ). The shelves made a huge difference in our living room: they enlarged it and added another dimension. Now we have to find a suitable picture to hang next to it.

2007-10-21T23:43:00.000-04:00

It's been a while from my last post.

SURGERY
First, my baby girl's surgery and recovery went great. She had no significant swelling, redness or bruising and it healed faster than the first time. She looks pretty and she tells me that she can see better than before.

Birthday party.
2 days after the surgery we had a birthday party for our second daughter. We invited several of our good friends and all had a great time. It was a nice, relaxing time, since we have not seen them all summer. And it was nice to have fun after the stressful anticipation of the surgery.

STITCHES EAST
The following week I went to Baltimore (again) to see the Stitches East. This was my first time there and I did not know what to expect exactly. Since I did not take any of the classes, I only went to visit the Market. There were some great vendors - some of them I saw at the Sheep and Wool Festival. Unfortunately, I did not big budget to spend, though I got some bargains at WEBS booth. They had so much great stuff ( pictures tomorrow).

DESIGNING
I have gotten 2 projects to work on for Vogue Knitting and that really has been occupying most of my "free" time in past couple weeks. I have gotten some great yarn for the projects - Conjoined Creations yarn (I have never seen this one before) and Blue Sky Alpacas - Alpaca & Silk (yummy yarn) - again pics tomorrow. Today I feel good and accomplished quite a bit - First project finished (just need to add a button). Second project - 1/3rd done. I am trying to finish it by Friday.

HOME DECORATING
My husband have decided that today was the day to put some shelves up over our sofa. He bought 3 4-feet shelves in IKEA. It took him about an hour and the job was done - it has transformed our living room tremendously. Now we just need some big picture to hang next to it. We went to look for it yesterday, but we have not found anything suitable - if we liked something it did not have the right dimensions. Again pics tomorrow.

RAVELRY
Last week I have gotten invitation to Ravelry- great place for knitters and designers to hold in one place all projects accomplished, WIP, UFO, patterns you want to work on in the future; you can keep track of all your stash and needle sizes and much more. I had been on it since last week and have lots of things to download. But for right now, I have to focus on finishing my projects on time and then I'll catch up there.

Off to bed. Pics tomorrow.

2007-10-05T23:49:00.000-04:00

So today our youngest one had her eyelid surgery and everything went as planned. She was recovering OK, though when she woke up she was in a lo of pain. They gave her some pain killers and it worked wonders, that she was dosing off for another hour. By noon we were leaving hospital. Tomorrow, we are going back to the doctor to have her patch removed. That's the time we will see how she looks. We were told that the second time around there will be more bruising, so we'll see. The first time it looked great, but I am trying not to set my hopes too high - the doctor said that the way she look the first time is not very typical.

2007-10-04T21:50:00.000-04:00

Short post today because tomorrow, my little girl is having an eye surgery to correct her droopy eyelid. She had the same surgery one and a half year ago and it was very successful. Unfortunately, 4 - 5 months later, her eyelid started to droop again. We were told that because she was so small and her head grew significantly since, her eyelid muscles stretched. So hopefully, this surgery will solve the problem and she will not need another surgery for long, long time.

2007-10-01T23:16:00.000-04:00

So I have finished the pattern for Marina - Leaves Top. You can see some pictures left. I had been trying to upload a picture to my Pattern of the Month sidebar and had been having a trouble with it. My pictures always came out stretched and unclear. I don't know why. Does any of you have any clue why this could be happening? Anyways, I managed to download one pictures, which seems to be in focus on the sidebar.

Well, to the pattern. Here are some facts about it:

This is a PATTERN for a girl's top worked in WORSTED yarn. The top can be worn by itself as a top or over a long sleeve shirt or T-shirt as a vest. You can get lots of use out of this garment. The pattern is written in wide range of sizes.

SIZES: 4 (6, 8, 10, 12) yrs.

FINISHED MEASUREMENTS:
*Chest/ Hips: 22, (24, 26, 28, 30)" / 55 (60, 65, 70, 75) cm
*Waist: 21 (23, 25, 27, 29)" / 52 (57, 62, 67, 72) cm
*Length 13 (14, 16, 17*, 18*)" / 32 (35, 40, 44, 46) cm
Shown in size 6.

MATERIALS:
*1 (1, 1, 2, 2) 7 oz./198g ball (each approx. 366yd/334m) of Caron Simply Soft (100% acrylic) in color # 9904 Country Blue.
*One circular US size 8 (5mm) 16" and/or 24* long needles OR SIZE TO OBTAIN CORRECT GAUGE
*Tapestry needle
*Stitch marker

GAUGE:
*16 sts and 24 rows = 4*/10cm over St. st. using size 8 (5mm) needles

Again, you can buy this pattern in my store here.

Proposals finished

Tomorrow, I am expecting to get yarn for my new project for Vogue Knitting: therefore today I was trying to finish few things I was working on. I have finished my proposals for Knitter's magazine; only I was unable to put them into a comprehensive package to mail. Hopefully I'll be able to do it tomorrow, though I have a few errands to run.

I am hoping to go to the gym in the morning before the kids get up for school; but I am not holding my hopes too high since it's almost midnight and I am still up. Hmm, maybe I'll run on the treadmill at home (!?). We'll see. At the end of the week, my youngest daughter is going for an eye surgery, so I am feeling little uneasy about that. She had the same surgery a year and a half ago, and it was quite successful; I still have that uneasy feeling. Also, my second to oldest daughters is having a birthday party on Sunday, so it is a quite busy week for me (more stressful I guess than busy - you guys probably know what I am talking about). It's just few days away and I don't have everything ready yet.

P.S: I have also a few of tutorial pictures for the Marina - Leaves Top / Vest to make the pattern as easy as possible to follow - it's a pretty easy pattern I've got to say, no sewing required. So check in back later for that.

SIZE (inches)

Waterfall patt (# sts = 4")

Lace patt (# sts = 4")

2007-09-28T19:08:00.000-04:00

I just read Annie Modesitt's blog and she writes about some people who criticized her for some silly grammar mistakes she made (even though she made some on purpose to emphasize her point she was making). Believe me - thanks God for having a spelling-check on this blog because many times I touch the wrong key and I'd be in trouble without it. Though her today's blog posting made me think about how imperfection can lead to great things.

It is hard for me to admit, but I am born a perfectionist, and, as Annie correctly assessed, it does NOT make for a happy life: To keep being perfect takes a lot of energy out of you and many times things are out of your control and then you can drive yourself insane. I had to reassess this when I gave birth to my daughters and could not stand up to my unattainable standards. And giving up being perfect makes one happier. I first realized this when I was flying with my 2 then young daughters overseas by myself (first daughter was barely 2 years old and the second daughter was just about 6 months old - still breastfed at the time - an extra stress for me!?). I set my hopes really low for having a pleasant trip and it turned out to be better than expected. That was a lesson to me - do NOT try to be perfect - nobody really cares anyways. Here are few examples of how imperfect things can actually turn into great things.

My daughter made a dress!

My eldest daughter (8 1/2 yrs) has been working on improving her knitting skills. This past week she was learning how to purl and thus being able to transition from garter stitch to Stockinette Stitch. This was her first swatch - red rectangular (see below). She also wanted to learn how to decrease and so she did try on the same swatch and viola - here it is - we turned the swatch into a Barbie's red-carpet dress! Yes, it has few imperfections - see the enlarged stitches at the lower part of the dress, but it turned out to be a nice detail on the dress. I am very proud of her. She was so excited, that she even learned how to sew it together on the same piece! Had she was dwelling on the piece to be perfect, she would never have the finished dress today! She astound me how cleverly she added a piece of yarn that was leftover from sewing the dress for a belt. Very stylish I must say - not to be bias.

Imperfect apple:

Another example of imperfection turned good is my rotten apple. The other day I dug out of my apple bowl an apple that was getting rotten. Since I don't like to waste things (learned from my Grandma who lived through the starving years of the World War II and I was reminded of it growing up - doing the same thing to my kids, by the way), I cut the rotten pieces away and then looked at it and saw a very interesting picture - an apple within an apple. How imperfectly perfect! My husband made me take a picture of it and here it is:

So the lesson is, I guess, accept being imperfect and see what happens in your life. You never see what will come your way.