Escalator Socks by Ruth Greenwald

Hello, hello, just an update on what I've been working on since the test knits are finished. I'm making myself a pair of Escalator Socks (Ravelry link) by Ruth Greenwald. The link goes to her Ravelry pattern store (sorry if you're not on Ravelry at this time). I'm using some Regia sock yarn I got from a swap, from my friend Jill. I started using this yarn for a pair of Grumperina's Jaywalker socks, until the first sock was down to the toe and I realized the pattern wouldn't stretch over my foot. Now don't get me wrong; the pattern looked fabulous and I wanted to wear it so badly! But instead I got mad and frogged it, and put the yarn in a time out. You knitters know what I mean about yarn being in a time out... Then I dug it back out and it swore to behave for these Escalator Socks.

Corn Yarn, test knitting, and iPod technical difficulties

Hey, most of us knitters and crocheters know they are now making yarn out of corn fibers. But have you seen this stuff? It is fantastic! I'm currently working on a test knit market bag out of Kollage Yarns Corntastic. You have to see it to believe the vibrant colors. It is very soft and multi-plied, kind of like a mercerized cotton with less shine, but it is also lighter than the cotton. It is supposed to be machine washable and machine dryable. How can you resist that? More on the test knit after the pattern has been published, but it's a good one. :)

I also did a test knit for Knit Fit Knitting, and her yarn is fabulous too. I used some of the hand painted sock yarn, and it is some nice stuff. Great colorways. Again, more on the pattern once it has been published, although my idiot self forgot to take a picture before sending the sock back.

Anyone out there know how to sync an iPod from the Windows Media Player? Dumb question, I know how to download iTunes, but I ripped some stuff from CD's for my sister, and now I can't get the Media Player to detect the iPod to sync with it. C'mon, someone is more tech-savvy than I am, I know it!

Happy Birthday!

Today is my 35th birthday. There are many people older than I am that would say that is young. There are also several moms at my daughters' school that would say, "Wow, you're 35? I didn't know you were that old!" This is a double-edged compliment, right? Thanks for saying that I look younger, no thanks for calling me old. I have to laugh about this because I don't feel old, and my parents are in their 60's, and this doesn't seem old anymore either. Age is definitely relative to where we are in life. I seem old as a returning college student, young in the span of life. All I can say is, I will be enjoying lots of sunshine and warm weather today, and knitting as much as possible. Happy birthday to me!

Spring at last!

Ah, at last, spring weather has come to Michigan. Knowing this state, we are not yet done with the snow and cold, but at least for now, it is sunny and 60 degrees. My mini daffodils bloomed yesterday, I've started walking again, and life is good.

I've finished one out of two socks from 2-At-A-Time Socks by Melissa Morgan-Oakes, the Be Mine pattern. Yes, I know, the title says two at a time, but I did it on dpn's because when I attempt this method, it will be on simple socks and not fancy heart socks with cables. The yarn is Kitty Knits Sock Wool in pansy, which you can buy here from a good friend of mine. The wool is unbelievably soft, with just enough give to stretch comfortably but still keep its shape, and the colors are just gorgeous.

In honor of spring, I'm also working on a flower washcloth from Creative Knitting Magazine. I will be back on later to post photos.

A friend of mine has introduced me to the Loopy Ewe, and I am now totally addicted. The products are awesome, the prices are great, and the shipping is very quick. Go take a peek; you won't be sorry.

Fabulous toddler cardigan

I finished another test-knit for Justine Turner, this time the Spirited cardigan. This pattern is beautiful. The aran stitch pattern is definitely not a mindless one, but it is worth the effort, and is no more difficult than knitting and purling. It's worth the purchase, as are all her patterns. She also has some free patterns up. Take a look!

felted slippers

Wow, I have actually knitted something for my hubby that he likes. If you only knew what a miracle that was. He said he would never wear hand-knitted socks (he's never tried them!), but said he MIGHT like slippers. Ha! He loves them! Thanks to Julia K. Kehew for her cable guy felted slippers pattern!

Liam sweater by Just Jussi

Ok, here it is... the sweater I test knitted.... the Liam sweater from Just Jussi! A very nice pattern, all in one piece with a bit of intarsia on the front. I love love love this pattern!