On The Needles

A Happy Monday to you all!  I just thought I would post about the projects I am currently working on.  The first one is A Handsome Shawl from Victorian Lace Today.  I believe I mentioned this in the last (awful) episode of the pod cast - this is my first serious lace project.  I am almost done with the first part of the pattern; I think after a few more rows I will just be repeating the pattern from a certain point.  I am so excited!  It really is coming along nicely, and I am almost encouraged to do another lace project after this is completed.  I say almost, because lace requires too much attention.  There is no sitting in front of the TV and knitting mindlessly.  But I am sure my efforts will be greatly rewarded once the shawl has been blocked and is ready to wear.

The second project I am working on is the Entrelac Throw from knit simple (as mentioned in the December 14 post).  Love it so far!  I played around with entrelac a few years ago just to get the feel of it, but never made anything, so this is my first Entrelac project.  I love that this technique looks so complicated, but it super simple.  One thing in particular that I like about this pattern, is the yarn that is used.  Limerick by Wisdom Yarn is the yarn.  31801 is the color used in the magazine, however when I tried to order, they were out of stock, so I got 31805 instead.  It is just as pretty, however I do want to make another throw using the 31801 too!  The color changes are really nice - when I was first figuring out entrelac, I was using two separate colors, and there were just way too many ends to weave it.  It is much better to use a yarn that changes color itself!

St. Patty's Day Knitting Patterns

 I found a few St. Patty's Day patterns floating around out there, but I thought this site had the best.  Nice dish/wash cloths!  I love dish/wash cloths, and these are very nice!

Kris Knits

Lion Brand also has a Spool Knit Shamrock Hotpad - you must register to view the pattern.  It's free!  And you don't get a ton of junk emails, at least I don't anyhow.

That's about it - if you have any patterns you'd like to put out there, just leave a comment!

Knit'n Style April 2011 Issue 172

In this issue you will find a great article by Lorna Miser (creator of Lorna's Laces, by the way) on floats, along with the Floating Flurry Headband.
There is also a great article on increases by Margaret Radcliffe - if you are like me, you need a reminder every once in a while, and this article will do just that!

As for the patterns, there is a lovely Lace Cardigan designed by Kennita Tully, a very pretty Half-Zip Cable Hoodie designed by Kristin Ford, a gorgeous Swing Jacket designed by Melissa Matthay, among many others!

This is one of my very favorites, there are always so many great patterns. Get your issue today!

Verena, Filati, and Yarn Forward

As promised, here are some more magazine reviews!

Verena - Winter 2010
#6 Roses - gorgeous stocking stitch cardi embellished with embroidered roses/vines and crochet edging (something I would never have the patience for, but it sure is pretty!)
#16 Glacier - soft and feminine jacket with a lovely bit of eyelet lace inserted on the front panels
#42 Cardishawl - I love this!  Clever sleeved shawl design you can tie around your waist or let the cabled scarf hang loose.
Many more great patterns, plus an article on Double Knitting and an article on Superwash wool.

Filati - Edition 42
Hooded Pullover - If you need to practice your cable skills, this is for you!  Beautiful all-over cable design featured on this cozy pullover.
Favorite Socks - These will go perfectly with the Hooded Pullover - nice cable pattern on these too.  They look so warm and cozy, I might just have to get my DPN's out and make some socks!
Warm Feet Set - If you aren't up to making the Favorite Socks, these might be what you are looking for.  Ankle socks with a matching hot water bottle cozy.  Just the thing for those chilly nights!
Oodles of great patterns for making you and your home nice and cozy, pillows, blankets, sweaters and felted slippers.  A must have issue!

Yarn Forward - February 2011
I've said it before, but it bears repeating - One of the great features of this magazine is that they give you options for the yarn used for the projects.  Save - recommends a yarn for those who have to watch their budget; Spend - recommends a yarn for those who can or want to spend a little more; and Spoil Yourself - the yarn for those who probably don't have a budget!

Mermaid Dress - adorable dress for that little lady in your life!  Also a chance to practice your color work skills!
Stripey Sweater - this is modeled by a little boy, and knit in orange and blue, however you could easily choose more feminine colors for a girl instead.  Has a nice big front pocket to keep little hands warm.
Lacy Wrap - beautiful lacy project!  Also has sleeves so you won't have to keep a hold on it to make sure it doesn't slip off your shoulders.
Lots more great patterns, including Knit Amigurimu and an article on jogless joins!

I have the latest issue of Knit'n Style that I will be reviewing once I have a chance to peruse it.  That's always one of my favorites!  Until next time, Happy Knitting!