When IK's holiday issue landed it my mailbox a couple days ago, I realized I was behind on magazine reviews. Again. Good thing I don't get paid for this: I'd starve.
First impression: Wow! That's some red lipstick.
Second impression: Pretty sweater. Not too sure about that bow.
What's New showcases an entire page of cable needles, made from materials as mundane as plastic and exotic as rosewood. I especially like the cable needle as necklace: an abstract silver and brass heart with a tail on a leather thong from Leslie Wind.
News: After reading about Mary Taylor and her plans to knit her way through Nicki Epstein's Knitting On Top Of The World over the next four years, I've been vacillating between (a) thinking she is absolutely insane and (b) wanting to join her or, alternately, start my own similarly insane knitting quest. That Rowan Vintage Knits sitting on my bookshelf might make a good candidate.... And, of course, now that I've taken a look at KOTOTW, it's gone on my list of knit books to buy.
Yarns: Bison and muskox yarns in a variety of weights and blends. The more I read about these fibers, the more I want to buy a skein.
Library features books from several familiar names, such as Nicki Epstein and Debbie Bliss. The most interesting offering is Knitting Art: 150 Works from 18 Contemporary Artists by Karen Searle. Keep in mind, however, "interesting" doesn't mean "I like it." Most of the knitted art pieces I've seen featured in magazines over the last couple of years are simply butt fugly. Still, that chair and the abstract human forms on the cover are intriguing. I wouldn't mind at least paging through the book, although it's not a likely purchase.
Spotlight on Regia Yarns, which celebrates its 60th birthday this year. Did you know the company, founded in post-war Germany, pioneered the production of synthetic blend washable wool yarns? Neither did I. Considering I've heard nothing but accolades about their yarns, one day I must actually use Regia to make a pair of socks.
Meg Swansen writes the second of three columns about family hat designs. This month's featured design is a tri-color watchcap with a "belt" about the brim which can be made in multiple colors and switched out at the wearer's whim. Okay. It's kind of cute. And the huge yarn means it's a superquick knit. I'm beginning to think I'm some sort of knitting heretic, though, because I've yet to see a Zimmermann/Swansen design of any sort that impresses me. But then again, perhaps I don't know enough (read: anything) about Elizabeth Zimmermann's contributions to modern knitting techniques. Perhaps one of her books should be my next knit library purchase.
Speaking of Techniques, Jared Flood continues the "convert that flat knit to a seamless knit" tutorial he began in the VK Fall 2009 issue. In this issue, he discusses yokes and sleeves. Good stuff, with diagrams and everything.
Veronik Avery is the featured designer in KnitLife, discussing design, yarn, family, and launching her own company, St.-Denis.
Hey! Patterns! You can see the previews here, but probably only until the next issue of VK is published.
VK's first story in this issue is "Color Vibes" -- an array of vibrant hues and bold patterns, both traditional and cutting edge.
#1 Empress Jacket: 15 different colors of a fingering-weight yarn, mitered squares, multi-directional knitting, wow! A beautiful long-sleeve kimono-type tunic-length jacket. Construction: multiple mitered squares make up front and back panels which are then sewn to each other and to the sleeves. A project that will consume much time, but the result? This is art that's actually wearable. What a shame it's modeled over a badly-clashing orangy plaid jumper. While I love this piece, and it's wearable, it's not something I would ever wear, nor would anyone else I love enough to invest the kind of time required to knit this. So, let me express my admiration from afar, and not place it in the Ravelry queue.
#2 Slip Stitch/Cable Cardigan: A long-sleeve boatneck multi-color cardigan with a cabled rib on the bottom half, and a slip-stitch Faux Isle pattern from the waist up. With the bulky yarn specified, this should be a fairly quick knit. Its predominately crimson color scheme is just the thing to brighten up a gloomy winter day. Not in the queue, but it's a possibility.
#3 Heart Yoke Cardigan: The most traditional piece in this story, this long-sleeve purple cardi is knit in the round and sports Fair Isle hearts in black and white on its yoke. Traditional fit, raglan sleeves, sport-weight yarn, really really cute. A plus-size pattern. Not in the queue, but it's a possibility.
#4 Dolman Pullover: Your basic dolman-sleeve sweater rescued from the ordinary by its clever use of color. To quote the magazine copy, Kaffe Fassett "reverses his intarsia stripes diagonally"...aw hell, that doesn't tell you anything. Go look at the picture. What's cool about this piece is it uses only two colorways of Rowan's Colorscape, and the yarn does all the color-change work for you. Dolman sleeves do not flatter my figure, however; this particular piece will not go in the Ravelry queue, although I'm storing the stripe reversing idea in the back of my brain. A plus-size pattern.
#5 Fair Isle Cardigan: An all-over stylized-flower pattern in white and blue with brilliant orange on the button band and cuffs. Very pretty. Construction: knit in the round with steeks. Eek. I love this cardi but steeks? *shiver* I conquered my fear of DPNs. I have not conquered my fear of steeks.
#6 Fair Isle Yoke Top: A short sleeve Tee (for winter? really?) in basic black with a traditional Fair Isle yoke pattern in multiple blues and white. Knit in the round. I like this a lot, despite the silly lace sleeved undershirt worn by the model. Stylists. Sheesh. Sometimes I wonder about them. Regardless, it's a possibility, although I expect if I make it I'll lengthen the sleeves.
#7 Fair Isle Hoodie: What is it with designers making short-sleeved winter wear? A fur-trimmed hood on a short-sleeved zipped jacket makes no sense whatsoever. Ahem. Okay. I love the rich brown body with orange, blue, and white Fair Isle detail around the yoke and above the deep ribbing at the bottom edge. I even sort of like the furry hood. I do NOT like the short sleeves. Therefore, if I make this, sleeves will be 3/4 length at a minimum.
#8 V Neck Pullover: A long-sleeved top with a rich cobalt blue upper body and a Navaho-inspired colorwork pattern in turquoise, cream, and gold below the waist. This is flat gorgeous, even if the stylist did put the model in shorts. (For winter. Go figure.) In my Ravelry queue.
For our second story, we are to Think Big. Cowls knit from huge yarn. I pretty much skimmed right past this section. Remember how I'm not a shawl person? I'm not really a cowl person either.
#9 Seed Stitch Cowl: A mitered ribbing yoke and a fold-over seed stitch collar form this shoulder-covering cowl knit in bright neon yellow uber-chunky yarn. This is so big the model can't put her coat on over it.
#10 Ribbed Cowl: Another shoulder-covering oversized turtleneck of a cowl with a garter welt yoke and 2x2 ribbing on the fold-over collar. Must be worn over the coat as well. Which is okay, I guess, but I don't like it.
#11 Eyelet Cowl: The only piece in this bunch I gave a second glance. A gorgeous multi-hued gold yarn in a bulky wool/angora/cashmere blend, knit in big eyelet with an I-cord drawstring, and deliberately constructed so it can be pulled over one's head as a hood (or wimple) or worn as a traditional neck-warmer. The best thing? It isn't soooo huge that it would prevent wearing a coat! So, even though I'm not a cowl person, I'm giving this piece serious consideration.
#12 Cabled Cowl: A giant shapeless pink tube with cables and ribbing. Woo. More covered shoulders, too. I suppose this piece could be co-opted as a hood like #11, but I'm not interested enough to even read the pattern.
The pieces in A Softer Shade of Pale, knit in quiet neutrals or pastels, provide a subdued and elegant counterpoint to the exuberant color we encountered several pages ago.
#13 Cable Tunic: A diagonal cable twisting across the front and along the 3/4 sleeves of this cream-colored knit is highlighted by the reverse stockinette background. The deep asymmetric cabled V-neck adds a subtle finish to the tunic-length pullover. Sophisticated evening wear as shown over a satin skirt, although I imagine it could be dressed down and worn to the office as well. A plus size pattern.
#14 Diamond Capelet: A shawl by any other name would still smell like a shawl. Dolman-shaped, with deep ribbing and an I-cord drawstring in a winter white alpaca. I love the texture of the diamond stitch, though, and may adapt the stitch pattern for use elsewhere.
#15 Bow Neck Pullover: Here's the cover knit with its richly textured cables and eyelets. Knit from the bottom up with first three strands of sport-weight merino, then two, then one, and finished off with a laceweight mohair at the boat-shaped neckline. Full length bell sleeves echo the triangular shape of the body. Very pretty. Again, this is modeled with a satin skirt as if for evening, but I can also see it with dark slacks or a slim skirt for office, and even with slim-legged jeans for weekend wear, especially if the mohair bow is left off and the neck finished with a few rows of ribbing. Not in the queue, but still a possibility.
#16 Nordic Pullover: A 3/4 sleeve top with a square neck, cable and lace yoke, and a knit/purl "snowflake" pattern on the lower body and lower sleeve. (I think they look like poinsettias myself.) As shown in baby blue, it's sweet. I'd rather make this in a deep rich jewel tone. A possibility.
#17 Cable Cardigan: Cables, bobbles, and other textures give an Aran-like feel to this belted tunic cardigan. Knit sideways for the most part using a sportweight merino, this is a piece I'd be tempted to make just to test the technique. Sure, it's pretty, and I really like the stitchwork on the back, but the garter welts and bobbles around the neck will add unnecessary bulk to my top half. That loopy freeform cable on the yoke, though, has really caught my attention. A possibility.
#18 Lace V-Neck Top: Once upon a time, a long time ago, I had a lace V-neck pullover, knit in pure white cotton. I wore that sweater everywhere: over blouses in winter, as a bathing suit coverup in spring and autumn, and sometimes, in certain circumstances, over nothing at all. It was my favorite piece of clothing for many years. One day, after one too many washes, it simply fell apart, and I never found another one like it. Until I turned to page 66 in this issue of VK, and found my sweater again, this time done up with sumptuous Alpaca Silk in a gorgeous silvery oyster color. Horseshoe lace, long sleeves, deeply scooped V-neck. Oh yeah. It's in the queue.
#19 Ruffle Edge Cardigan: Long sleeved fitted cardigan with knit ruffles along the neckline and front opening, and over the shoulder like epaulets. Okay. First thing, let me say I appreciate the creativity here, in both the design itself and in the fact the stylist put the model in a dress with soutache embroidery that mimic the ruffles on the cardi. The curly-Q knitting around the neck and front aren't that bad, and the fact that the piece doesn't fasten in front is easily remedied with a little widening of the front panels and one hook and eye closure at the waist. But seriously, knit ruffles over the shoulders and around the armhole seam? That's just plain silly.
We now go beyond the pale where Plum's The Word. One of my colleagues loooooves purple, and she is plumb tickled (*snerk*) that this shade is this year's "it" color. These designs look great in variations of this royal hue, although they could be made in any color you choose.
#20 Crossover Top: Short sleeved V neck constructed of a yoke and raglan sleeves, with a long band knit separately, then wrapped around and crossed in front. Really cute, and really young.
#21 Cabled Yoke Pullover: Gorgeous cables on this knit-in-the-round mock turtleneck. I like the split neck opening with the oversized buttons. I'm not overly crazy about the reverse stockinette body, but I'm gradually becoming accustomed to the idea of wearing knits that look like they're inside out. A possibility.
#22 Cropped Cardigan: All over cables, long sleeves, and a construction that allows the piece to be worn open with a deep front V, or closed with a boat neck. Intriguing. A possibility.
#23 Wrap Cable Jacket: LOVE! More all over cables, sideways construction, and a wide V-neck in a one-button flyaway cardigan. The recommended yarn is a cashmere/silk blend. I think it would be equally gorgeous in bamboo. In the queue.
Through The Looking Glass is the "what were they thinking?" section of this issue. Not the designs so much, although a couple of them are questionable, but the theme. Alice in Wonderland? Really? I'm a huge Lewis Carroll fan, but come on. What does Alice have to do with knitting? At least they didn't quote Jabberwocky.
#24 Lace Beret: "Too cute" copy doesn't take anything away from the gorgeousness of this cap and its pattern of traveling lace. The recommended yarn is a sport-weight cashmere/merino/silk blend. Not in the queue only because I don't know who I would make this for...this sort of hat doesn't look right on me.
#25 Fingerless Gloves: I finally figured out who wears this type of lace gauntlet. The goths. And maybe the Ren Faire folk. According to the pattern, the gloves are constructed of different sizes of lace medallions, sewn together. I think these gloves might be pretty, but I can't really tell because of the goofy way the stylist posed the model. Drink me, indeed.
#25 Medallion Scarf: The trouble with this piece is: I can't see it. Not very well, anyway, because it's made from a dark blue yarn, and worn by a model who is also wearing a dark blue dress. Looks like we have circles and bobbles and dangly bits. And it's worn as if it's a shawl rather than a scarf.
#27 Vintage Baby Dress: Utterly adorable dress with garter stitch bodice and eyelet skirt, and a velvet ribbon tie. *sigh* I don't know anyone with a baby young enough for this sweet piece.
#28 Lace Socks: LOVE! Can't get enough lace socks, and this is a very pretty, criss-crossy lace down the back, front and instep, combined with an upside-down wishbone lace on either side. In the queue.
#29 Braided Cowl: Skinny knitted tubes braided together. Uh. No. But this piece gave me a chance to take a good look at the model. I think she's 12.
And finally, in Designer Details, we take a look at the cutting edge in knit design.
#30 Fitted Jacket: Another example of the stylist mucking up the featured piece by dressing the model in a clashing and/or too similar print. I think this salt and pepper jacket by Anna Sui may have been inspired by the jackets worn by My Chemical Romance in the video The Black Parade. Unfortunately, the model is dressed in a splashy black and white print dress so it's virtually impossible see any real detail. Too bad. Because I think I like it.
#31 Ribbed Jacket: A short-sleeved jacket from Twinkle with all over 3x3 ribbing knit in super bulky Soft Chunky. Structurally similar to #22 above, with the unfastened deep V front or fastened boatneck. This isn't bad, but I still don't get the fuss over Twinkle.
So we're jumping right past the autumn issues of the various magazines deemed worthy of my subscription money directly into winter. Yes, that's right, no reviews will be written for Interweave Knits, Interweave Crochet, Crochet Today! and Vogue Knitting Fall 2009 issues, nor for the majority of the summer issues either (except for Vogue, which was written in May). Why? For one thing, summer is over, and those issues are no longer on the newsstands. As for fall, let me ask you this: do you know how long it takes me to write a decent detailed review? No? Let me tell you: four hours at least; six is more likely. We're looking at a minimum of sixteen hours to write up reviews for those four Fall issues and, frankly, I don't have that kind of extra time this week. Therefore, I say nix to that; and hereby apologize to you, the loyal reader, for my procrastination, laziness, and lack of self-discipline in this regard. I also promise to do better.
Okay. Onward. Crochet Today! Nov/Dec 2009 issue, as can be discerned from its cover, focuses on the upcoming Christmas holidays with a kitschy retro flair.
In Products and News, the usual assortment of gadgets, gizmos, and accessories are presented for our perusal. The individually-wrapped Eucalan wipes in particular caught my eye, as well as the fabric-as-reusable-wrapping-paper by Furochic (music on link alert).
Need a way to use leftover skeins and ends of yarn? Want to donate a handmade item to a worthy cause? Look no further. People features the charity Heartmade Blessings, which gathers 12" afghan squares from crocheters everywhere and assembles them into blankets, or "comfortghans", for people beset by difficulties such as illness, bereavement, or some other woe. The organization has a special program which provides these handmade blankets to the families of soldiers fallen in Iraq and Afghanistan. Now I know where all those yarn remnants lurking in the bottom of the yarn closet will be going.
Crochet Class makes mention of the strangest way to keep a row count I ever heard: set out as many M&Ms as the pattern has rows, eat one at the end of each row, and when the M&Ms are done, so is the pattern. Being round enough already, I think I'll stick to my clicker counter, thank you very much.
What's hilarious about this column is the juxtaposition of the blurb for Yarn Bombing right next to the mini-review of AwareKnits: Knit & Crochet Projects for the Eco-Conscious Stitcher by Vickie Howell. Yeah. Because wrapping a lamppost in acrylic is soooo eco-friendly.
Yay! Patterns!
On that note, I'm sorry to inform you I won't be linking to the projects on the CT website. CT no longer maintains a complete archive of projects from back issues, so many, if not most, links would be defunct as soon as the next issue's preview goes up. However, I will post pictures of my favorites in this blog entry. You'll just have to jump over to CT's website to see the rest of the projects.
So. Umm. Yay! Patterns!
First is the reworking of a vintage thread crochet ornament:
Next is the Stitchy Gingerbread House, which is just what it sounds like: a house made of yarn with the look of the traditionally baked and decorated gingerbread house. Utterly adorable.
The Retro Ripples Skirt takes your under-the-tree decoration back, back, back to the 1970s (or maybe earlier: I'm not really sure when ripple crochet became the "in" thing) in sparkly red, white, and green Red Heart Holiday. I don't like ripples. It's a personal thing. Your mileage may vary.
Next up, Candy Shop Ornaments: Tiny candy canes, peppermints, and ribbon candy look-alikes made from #3 thread to festoon your tree, or your mantle, or anywhere else that might need festooning. Really cute.
Of course, no issue of Crochet Today! is complete without at least one afghan. Sparkly Snowflakes makes use of Red Heart Holiday once more with its shimmery white snowflake motifs surrounded by midnight blue join-as-you-go borders. SIDE NOTE: I wouldn't use Red Heart Super Saver (which is what the "Holiday" yarn is) for anything other than a dog toy or maybe that gingerbread house. Certainly not anything that would be used/worn by people. It's stiff, scratchy, and extremely hard on the hands. This is the acrylic yarn most people think of when they turn up their noses and say "Ewww." Which is too bad because there are some wonderful acrylic yarns out there. Like my beloved Bernat Berella 4. Or Plymouth Encore (a wool/acrylic blend). Or Paton Canadiana.
Granny hexagons, as opposed to granny squares, make up the Stuffable Stockings. A fun look, and a fun project to use up more odds and ends of yarn.
Your child won't drive you insane with noise on Christmas morning if you give her the Little Drummer Set. Yes, a crocheted drum set, complete with cymbals and drumsticks. More Red Heart Supersaver here, and this is an appropriate project for it. The pattern also calls for lightweight cardboard and polyester fiberfill.
The Snowfall Cowl is a fluffy buttoned concoction that calls for Red Heart Light & Lofty and lots and lots of triple crochet. Looks like it's as easy as pie and, with that yarn or one similar, should stitch up in virtually no time flat. Great gift idea.
The magazine copy calls the Capelet Swing Cardi completely customizable. Yes, all those Cs were deliberate. Alliteration is our friend. This cardigan, though, I'm not so sure. The asymmetrically-buttoned bodice with a cowl-like collar and extended cap sleeves looks like it's part of one garment, and the mid-thigh-length flyaway swingcoat lower half seems to belong to another garment altogether. I keep imagining it as much shorter and more fitted and buttoned all the way to the hem. In other words, more as a regular cardigan. Well, they said it was completely customizable.
Snowflake Earrings. Crocheted jewelry. 'Nuff said.
Oh hey! Baby stuff! The Candyland Sweater in TLC Baby Amore is a sweet treat for that special baby. Made as shown in aqua or some other pastel, this longsleeve flyaway cardigan would be suitable for a girl; stitch it in something other than a pastel and your favorite baby boy will be dressed for church on Christmas morning.
A granny square on steroids makes up the Cotton Candy Blanket. Yes, it's one giant granny square in alternating colors of Red Heart Baby Clouds. Another easy to make and quick to stitch project.
Need another quickie baby project? Try the Gumdrop Booties. Tiny booties with criss-cross straps stitched up in candy-colored smooth worsted make adorable (and fast) shower gifts. You'll need decorative buttons and snaps for fastening the straps.
Ruffled spirals make up the Twirly Scarf, created by a special stitch technique which makes the fabric curl in on itself as the stitch pattern progresses. Suitable for all ages!
The Two-Hour Hat is a basic beanie, but the ribbed single crochet stitch pattern and subtle color changes in the recommended yarn (Red Heart Collage) add visual interest. Simple, but not boring.
Gifty Gloves are colorful and fun and, if the pattern is to be believed, a quick easy project. Crocheted in sockweight yarn (Red Heart's Heart & Sole is suggested), this fingerless glove pattern also includes instructions for a full-fingered version, should the maker so desire.
Finally, to wrap up the issue, we have the Wrap-Up Afghan. Constructed of oversized granny squares, this is another good project to make use of leftover skeins of worsted. Just remember to unify the varying squares with an outside border of a single coordinating color.
(In case you were wondering, writing this review took six hours. It would have taken longer had I linked to all the yarns mentioned.)
Pattern: Houndstooth Purse by Mary Jane Hall, from Crochet Today! May/June 2009
Yarn: Plymouth Encore in #678 Gray and #217 Black, less than 1 skein each
Hook: H
Skill level: Easy
Satisfaction with end result: Not too shabby! This is the first purse I've made that is tailored, after a fashion: in other words, not a tote or market bag of some sort. Spouse's first thought was "How fast can you make those? I can sell them on eBay!" Sorry, dear, that would be a violation of copyright. I haven't tried carrying it, yet, so I don't know how practical it is, but it sure is cute.
One of the advantages of taking such a long break from blogging is spending more time making stuff to blog about. (When not screwing around on Facebook, that is.) This morning, I finished this blanket:
Pattern: Airy Spring Throw by Marianne Forestal, from Crochet Today! Mar/Apr 2009
Yarn: Bernat Berella 4 in Winter White, roughly 8 1/2 skeins, or 1568 yards.
Hook: H and J
Skill level: Easy peasy
Satisfaction with end result: LOVE!!! I don't think the picture does it justice. This is flat gorgeous, if I do say so myself. And the fabric, once the finished piece had been washed and dried, is soooo soft and cozy, but still lightweight. It's intended as a gift. Now I just have to discover who I made it for.
So, um, I finally return to the world of knitblogs (or crochet blogs, as the case may be). Curse that newfound addiction to Facebook! To make up for the looooooong absence, I have project pics. Completed project pics, even.
My "Denimbrigo Vest", so called because it's loosely based on Julia Vaconsin's Malabrigo Top from Interweave Crochet, but made with Rowan Denim rather than Malabrigo Lace.
Bamboo washcloths, a quickie little gift knit for the sole purpose of using two remaining skeins of Bernat Bamboo.
Two cowls are currently blocking. I'll get those posted sometime in the next couple of days. I'm not even going to try to review the knit and crochet magazines that have accumulated in the last couple of months. We'll start fresh with the fall issues when they show up.
First, the bad news: I decided to frog the Gathered Pullover. Yes, at about 95% completion, I took a good long look at the fabric and how it draped, and decided the Mirasol Cotanani was not the right yarn for the job. The color was gorgeous, the stitch definition was fabulous, but the whole thing was just too heavy, and I'd have hated wearing it. So, we took a trip to the frog pond. However, I did take a picture of it before destruction...
And a closeup of the cabled knot detail:
I'll definitely make this top someday, but with a lighter yarn (i.e. NOT a wool/cotton blend). Gee, maybe even the yarn the pattern suggests. Now there's a concept! *grin* And as far as the Cotanani is concerned, all is not lost: I have a couple of ideas for the right pattern for that particular stash.
Onward.
The Houndstooth Bag is awaiting assembly:
Assembly involves heavy duty fusible interfacing (not shown) and a zipper. I have always disliked sewing zippers. However, I have a new sewing machine:
Which should make sewing a pleasure again instead of the struggle it was as my old machine died a long and painful death.
I only work on Delphine when I can pay fairly close attention; therefore, we're just inching along:
The lace pattern is easy, but it's not mindless. Gotta watch that stitch count carefully.
And then there's the Denimbrigo, so called because I'm using Rowan Denim instead of the suggested Malabrigo laceweight:
Do you see the problem? I didn't, at least not until I took this photograph. Notice the major color variation where I changed skeins, that is. Checked the yarn...different dye lots! Damn! I thought I'd been so careful. Luckily, only two skeins are different, so I'll use them for the upper bodice. I already ripped this one out and expect to start over this evening. As you might expect, given the vastly different weights between the suggested yarn and what I'm using, I'm making some major modifications to this pattern. Notes will be posted with the finished project.
Of course, the baby blanket is still in pieces:
and the Pom is in permanent hibernation:
Still, the goal of the moment is to finish something before picking up the Cotanani again. We'll see how well that goes.
....since I wrote an entry? Guess so. And now the latest issue of Crochet Today! is waiting for a review as well.
Still working on the Gathered Pullover. I actually thought I was done except for the seaming until last night, when I sewed on a sleeve and tried it on to check the fit. Not good. The sleeve is too long. And too tight through the shoulder cap. *sigh* So, this morning I removed the sleeve, ripped it back to where the increases began, and will now re-knit with more frequent increases and a taller sleeve cap. Lather, rinse, repeat for the other sleeve. This should be interesting. I hope I don't have to rip out the main body to redo the armholes too.
The crocheting part of the Houndstooth Bag is done; the lining, interfacing, zipper, and hardware have all been purchased; and the lot of it sits on my craft table awaiting assembly, next to the new sewing machine I had to buy to finish this project. (Hush: that's my story, and I'm sticking to it.)
In the meantime, I could not resist casting on for Delphine from French Girl Knits, using Skacel Collection's Urban Silk in 03 Pretty Pink. Kind of a fussy yarn, but it knits up beautifully with a great sheen and texture.
And, because I needed a portable and mindless project, I decided to adapt Julia Vaconsin's Malabrigo Top from Interweave Crochet's Spring 2009 issue to use the Rowan Denim that's been sitting in my stash for sometime. I say adapt because the pattern is written for a laceweight wool, which the Rowan most certainly is not. Also, I'm making it as a sleeveless V-neck cardi/vest, rather than a sleeveless V-neck pullover vest. Someday I hope to be as comfortable changing and adapting and essentially rewriting knit patterns to suit me as I am crochet patterns.
Right now I'm resisting the urge to pull out the Classic Elite Desert and cast on Stephanie Japel's Thick and Thin Cardigan from Fitted Knits.
Still no pics. Recently I am most remiss when it comes to pictures.
....too busy knitting. And crocheting. And, well, other stuff, like work, laundry, errands, and so forth.
And apparently too busy to take photos of current projects in progress, as well. So, I'll link to the patterns instead.
- Houndstooth Bag from Crochet Today's Mar/Apr 2009 issue. The crocheting is all done, using Plymouth Encore Worsted in Black 217 and Soft Grey 194. Now I have to get the lining made, and find the appropriate zipper, purse feet, and handles.
- Gathered Pullover from Interweave Knits Winter 2007, using Mirasol Cotanani in Turquoise 407. I've got the body through the center cable detail finished, and am now working on the front pieces on either side of the V-neck. At the rate this project is proceeding, I'll probably be finished in another couple of weeks, unless...
- ...I give in to the urge to start something new. The stash, it callz me. Cast-on-itis, I haz it.
Speaking of Interweave, the Summer 2009 issue of Knits is sitting here on my desk, daring me to write a review. I'll get to it eventually.
After threatening you all with it for weeks, today I'll finally take the time to write the review of the latest offering from Vogue Knitting.
First impression upon retrieving the magazine from the mailbox: "OMG, look at that cover knit: it's gorgeous!" Second impression: "OMG, look at that cover knit: it's so complicated!"
We'll skip right on past the editor's column, the gadgetry plugs (some very cool scissors featured in this, umm, feature), and the news & notes columns because, frankly, there's really nothing worth noting here. Except those very cool scissors. Oh, and a link to download a sweater pattern worn in the film Coraline.
Silks are the focus in Yarns, with VK's top 10 culled from the usual suspects like Debbie Bliss, Rowan, and Nashua Handknits, as well as a couple of unfamiliar yarn companies. I was especially intrigued by Tsumugi Silk from Habu Textiles, a laceweight yarn with some 40 colors, available in a 450-yard (50 gram) cone for about $14.00 per cone.
Although the sock book looked interesting, what really grabbed my attention was Country Weekend Knits by Madeline Weston, with its focus on traditional ganseys, Arans, and Fair Isle patterns. I may soon be adding yet another book to the ever-growing avanta7 knit library. Just don't tell my husband.
Frugality is the watchword in the Spotlight, with a special emphasis on repurposing old sweaters, especially those found in thrift stores, by frogging them and using the yarn for new modern projects. The column includes a detailed how-to on taking apart that thrift-store find, information easily found on the web and elsewhere, but always good to review.
Meg Swansen's column discusses the Bohus Stickning movement of the late 1930s through 1960s, an era in knitting history previously unknown to me, and a subject which I found fascinating. I only wish Ms. Swansen had gone into more detail; however, one of the column's purposes was to plug a book on the tradition available through Schoolhouse Press, so it's understandable she left some mystery in the subject.
Of course, this also means there's yet another knitting book to be added to the above-mentioned ever-growing knit library. Again, please don't tell my husband.
Skipping over a lengthy article on internships for fashion students in the fiber arts industry (which I read but didn't care about), we come to the Techniques column, which talks about my newest love, skinny yarns! Yes, it often takes longer to knit a sweater with a fine-gauge yarn but, as this article points out, the results are worth it: a more tailored garment with a more flattering fit that can usually be worn throughout most of the year. Besides, who wants to wear a sleeveless tank or camisole made from some bulky wool?
Runway Trends: Glitz. *sigh* If I have to read the word "bling" one more time in any article about shiny sparkly fashion items, I may commit a crime against humanity.
And finally, the patterns: The first pattern offered in the magazine was back a few pages in between articles: an excerpt from Nicky Epstein's Knitting in Tuscany, the Tuscan Sun Scarf. The book itself is a combination pattern book/travelogue/tour guide. The scarf is a sparkly thing constructed from multiple sunflower-shaped medallions knitted in a sequinned yarn. Looks like a fun accessory, casual or glamorous as the wearer chooses. Not to my taste, but I can see how other knitters might love it.
- Star Motif Pullover -- Short-sleeved lace raglan-style top with deep ribbing at the hem and foldover neck. Made from a cotton/bamboo blend. Pretty lace pattern. Unusual seamed construction, with a diamond-shaped front and back, and triangular-shaped sides. Not currently in my Ravelry queue, but it's a possibility.
- Star Camisole -- Pretty tank with a star-shaped medallion knitted from the center outward on the front, and a deeply scooped back. I like it a lot but would never make it for myself, mainly because I can't figure out how I'd ever wear a bra with this piece. Frankly, me sans brassiere = not a pleasant sight.
- Multi-Shapes Top -- If ever a piece were aptly named....Constructed by knitting one geometric shape, then picking up stitches on a side and knitting another geometric shape, and repeat. Beautiful design, and probably a great deal of fun to knit. Drawback #1: Comes in only two sizes, XS/S (31" bust) and M/L (40" bust). Drawback #2: The magazine contains instructions for the 31" size only. The M/L sized must be downloaded from the web. Still, it's another possibility not currently in the queue. Perhaps once I reach my goal weight.
- Botanica Medallion Cardigan -- LOVE!!! The cover knit, and what a beautiful piece of work this is. A completely circular knit, with an intricately detailed center medallion surrounded by an equally intricate wide band which makes up the shawl collar and lower half of the back, with slits left for armholes when attaching the band to the medallion. If you plan to knit this, make note of the errata, and check out the step-by-step instructions. In my Ravelry queue.
- Short-Sleeve Cardigan -- Feminine, lacy, short-sleeved, crew-neck cardigan with intentional gaps between the front buttons. Multi-directional knitting and construction, and a unique lace pattern. I like it, after a fashion, but I'm just not crazy about gappy front openings. A plus-size pattern, though, and that's a good thing.
- Feather and Fan Dress -- Lace dress in a classic stitch knitted in the round from the scalloped hem upward. Tiny cap sleeves and a scooped neckline. I put this in my queue with the intention of making it much shorter and using it as a summer top. I'll probably add set-in short sleeves, as well.
- Lace Tunic -- Sleeveless tunic-length fastener-free cardigan would be perfect for the office over a dress, as shown by the model, or perhaps over a fitted shirt and slim-fitting trousers. Very nice back yoke detail. A plus-sized pattern. In my queue.
- Lace Cardigan -- Tunic-length flyaway cardigan with belled raglan 3/4 sleeves in eyelet lace for the body and what appears to be a mock cable lace for the bottom several inches of the hem and sleeves. Moderate V-neck. Depending on the yarn chosen, could be equally suited to the office or a night out. Probably best worn with a skirt or dress -- I think the dense pattern at the hem would make this piece too bottom heavy if worn with slacks. In the queue.
- Laced Tank -- Sleeveless V-neck tank with eyelet pattern and I-cord lacing on the front. Nice summery piece. A possibility, but not currently queued.
- Tie-Front Cardigan -- Another 3/4 sleeve flyaway cardigan that escapes the mundane in its details: V-necked yoke in a slanting lace and cable stitch, and upside-down eyelet Vs on the sleeves and below the bust line. The real surprise in this piece is its recommended yarn: Patons Grace, a budget-priced yarn available at virtually any big box craft store, such as Michaels or Joann. A plus-sized pattern. In the queue.
- Feather Trim Vest -- The defining feature of this A-line surplice-front vest is the ostrich feather trim around the front and neck edge, and that's the detail I dislike. Feathers are just plain fussy. Otherwise, this is a well-designed basic wardrobe piece.
- Lace Afghan -- LOVE!!! 4' X 6' throw in a beautiful scallop lace pattern with ribbed edges. In the queue, and likely to be the first major lace project I attempt.
- Drop Stitch Scarf -- Simple, casual scarf in a dropped-stitch basketweave pattern that looks light as the feathers I disliked in #11 above. The pattern seems to be a quick knit and requires less than 450 yds of sport-weight yarn, making this project a great choice for gift-giving. Not currently in the queue, but it's a possibility.
- Bias Lace Shrug -- VK almost always has at least one pattern per issue that I call the "What were they thinking?" piece. In this issue, it's this piece. The odd truncated body seems to have way too much fabric below the arms, but maybe that's just the way the model is sitting. The set-in 3/4 sleeves are odd, too, for a piece they're calling a shrug. It's as if the designer (Michele Rose Orne) couldn't decide between creating a shrug or a cardigan, and ended up with some mutant cross-breed of both. Pretty lace pattern though. And kudos for another budget yarn choice: Lion Brand's Microspun.
- Lace Crochet Coat -- LOVE!!! Kristin Omdahl's below-the-knee duster is constructed of huge lacy crocheted medallions with belled sleeves and a tie front. I have no idea where I will wear this, nor for what occasion, but I'm making it anyway.
- Vine Lace Dress -- Knee length tank dress with a scoop neck and delicate eyelet vines from neck to hemline. The pattern calls for patch pockets which, to my eye, are a completely unnecessary detail which interrupts the flow of the dress. Otherwise, this is a beautifully simple design, and one I'd consider were I a more slender version of myself. Even so, it's still a possibility in a much shorter length as a casual summer top.
- Ripple Pattern Cardigan -- Standard-issue 3/4 sleeve flyaway raglan cardigan made special by the choice of yarn and the wide collared V-neck. The more I look at it, the more I like it. Not currently queued, but I haven't completely ruled it out.
- One Button Cardigan -- Okay, so this issue of VK has two "What were they thinking?" pieces. The chief problem with this otherwise interesting design is the wideness of the neck and the narrowness of the caps of the sleeves. Yoo hoo! I have sloping shoulders. These sleeves would slide right off and droop around my upper arms rather than stay put where they're meant to sit. They even look like they're about to do the same on the model, and we know she has nice square walking-clothes-hanger shoulders. That's why she's a model. I suppose if I really loved this sweater, I could widen that very narrow upper right and left front as well as retool the fit of the upper sleeves to make the garment sit properly on my shoulders. But I don't love it. I like the texture of the multiple stitch patterns, and the unique twisted cable at the top of the sleeves, but I don't love the sweater. So I won't bother.
- Textured Top -- Nifty tee with short sleeves and a Peter Pan collar, knit in several different textured stitches that unfortunately are mostly lost in the choice of a bi-colored yarn. I like the yarn (which looks great in the ribbing and the cable stitch, BTW); I like the top, but I don't like them together. Not completely. In my queue anyway, because I'm sure I can find a better yarn choice for this pattern. A plus-sized pattern.
- Halter Tank -- I'm not entirely sure I understand the fuss over Twinkle, because I have yet to see a design from that source that I like. This racer-back tank is no exception. It's not ugly, but it's just not my taste. Maybe it's an age thing.
- Two Color Top -- Top-down raglan with short sleeves and a cowl neck in a nylon/rayon metallic yarn. Deeply ribbed hem, with the ribbing repeated on the sleeves and cowl. Cute! But not for me.
- Mitered Top -- Scoop-neck sleeveless tank knit in metallic yarn with a sparkly spangled carry-along for the neckline and armholes. Ribbed waist detail, A-line shaping below the waist, and a scalloped hem. Very dressy. Not in the queue, but it's a possibility for the right occasion. A plus-sized pattern.
- Pleated Top -- A (barely) sport weight yarn in a mohair/silk blend knit on just-one-size-too-large needles results in a nearly sheer lightweight confection of a tee. Pleated cap sleeves and Swarovski crystals decorating the pleated V-neck make this a sweet sexy special evening out garment. Another piece I have no idea when or where I'll wear it, but I'm making it anyway.
- Ruffled Cardigan -- Knit in a sequinned sparkly yarn, this cardigan has barely there cap sleeves and a ruffled neckline and button band. Rhinestone buttons and a split hem make this evening topper extra special. A plus-sized pattern.
- Tank Top -- Metallic yarn and a shaped silhouette give pizazz to this otherwise plain-jane tank. The deep-scoop neck is bordered by ribbing, as are the hem and armholes. A plus-sized pattern, and a possibility.
- Diagonal Rib Top -- I put this short-sleeved V-neck tee in my queue because I love the diagonal stitch pattern and lace border around the neckline. I think it will be just as striking, and more wearable, in something other than the shiny metallic and sequinned suggested yarn.
- Fingerless Gloves -- A leaf pattern on the back and an elongated ruffle at the wrist give extra feminity to these sweet mitts. Pretty, but not for me.
- Lace Shawl -- You know how I keep saying "I'm not a shawl person"? This piece might make me change my mind. Knit with an ultra-fine mohair silk blend, this rectangular shawl looks like it weighs no more than a feather ("feather" is apparently the word of the day) and might even qualify as a wedding ring shawl (which, if you are unfamiliar with the term, is a shawl knit so finely that it can be pulled through a wedding ring).
- Lace Socks -- Pretty little anklets with several complementary lace patterns. I just realized I haven't queued these. Will remedy that as soon as this entry is finished.
- Lace Scarf -- Simple lace repeats make up this straight-edged rectangular scarf. Currently not in my queue, but I'm thinking I may have yarn suitable for this piece already stashed, so it is a possibility. Another potential make-it-quick gift item.
- Lace Stockings -- Spectacular thigh-high stockings with flowers on the back of the legs, leaves on the front...so demure, so sexy, so bridal! Too bad I didn't know how to knit when I got married. Spouse might have gotten the surprise of his life on our wedding night. *grin*
Happy knitting!
Finished last night....I call it my California Poppy:
Pattern: Ring Around the Posie by Tammy Hildebrand from Interweave Crochet Spring 2008.
Yarn: Bamboozle from Crystal Palace Yarns, color Ember Glow, 9 skeins.
Size: 45"
Satisfaction with end product: LOVE LOVE LOVE!
MODS: Used size K hook because I couldn’t find the J. 11 motifs for
side strips; 5 motifs for back center strip; 4 motifs for center front.
The extra motifs on side and back strips added necessary length; using
4 motifs for the front gave the finished piece a deeper front neckline
which is more flattering to my (ample) figure. Eliminated side gusset
and used single crochet for seaming.
The neckline isn’t really crooked: Just before spouse snapped the pic, I had adjusted the straps on the cami under the shirt so they wouldn’t show and accidentally hiked the neck up a tad too much on one side.
I wore it to work today and loved every minute of it.
Recent Comments
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Mariyushka said:
I love native style jewelry and hand made items! are you planning on some rings? I read quite a bit... read more
on Magazine Review: Crochet Today! May/June 2009 -
MsChristy said:
[this is good]I found some of these patterns on Ravelry and was totally bummed that they're only available by purchasing the magazine... read more
on Magazine review: Interweave Crochet, Spring 2009 -
avanta7 said:
I believe you can order back issues from Vogue Knitting. read more
on Magazine Review: Vogue Knitting, Spring/Summer 2009 -
sue renshaw said:
how can I get a copy of this particular issue. read more
on Magazine Review: Vogue Knitting, Spring/Summer 2009
Please don't spam. read more
on Magazine Review: Crochet Today! May/June 2009