Knitting in Azusa

Last Day... very somber...

2010-06-18T15:01:00.000-07:00

Azusa Adult School has held its last day of class on Thursday June 9. 2010. All students participated and we had a nice morning, followed by a beautiful pot-luck lunch.

Sadly, due to budget cuts the Azusa Unified School District decided to cut all the arts classes including our knitting/crochet class to free up funds for its K-12 programs. Whereas I am very sad that this is happening, I do understand that educating children has a higher priority than teaching adults how to knit and crochet. I truly believe that the people responsible for the current educational crisis are all sitting in Sacramento and believing they did the right thing. For one or another reason each and every one of them had voted to allow adult education funding to be rerouted and used for K-12 programs anyway a district sees fit, hoping they can make themselves feel better for being such a dysfunctional bunch of clowns.

Here are the latest projects students worked on.
Below:
Fran's newest lace pattern scarf.

Sherry's Afghan, made of Amity yarn from Ella Rae

Luu's Baby set...

and lastly... I made this set for a three month old baby girl.

2010-05-27T14:18:00.000-07:00

Luu made these adorable looking baby booties and hat.

This nice looking pillow is the work of Hortensia, so is the colorful table cloth below.

Hortensia also crochet this baby blanket.

Luu made this elegant lace shawl.

The two gorgeous and elaborate pictures are needle point made by Denise.

Hats and more hats

2010-05-06T09:57:00.000-07:00

Easy Cozy

2010-03-11T22:17:00.001-08:00

Star Blanket

2010-03-11T21:57:00.000-08:00

Ana's Star Blanket

Baby Blanket made by machine

2010-01-28T19:51:00.000-08:00

2010-01-27T08:25:00.000-08:00

Anna's perfect vest.

I made something little for my grandniece. The Blossom Jacket from the Looking-glass Knits

2009-12-12T12:36:00.000-08:00

Anita, modeling this gorgeous red scarf, which she made for grand daughter.

Another one of Anita's creations. The recipient of this cozy warm beanie must feel very lucky.

Pink Ladies....

2009-11-22T16:41:00.000-08:00

Fran made this diagonal scarf with matching beanie out of a soft mohair acrylic yarn.

Do you know that Fran McDonald and Cherry Frost both are founding members of the Pink Ladies club? The Pink Ladies are a group of individuals devoting their time, money and expertise to help comfort cancer patients living in our local communities. Cherry and Fran both are very active knitting scarves and hats for all cancer patients treated at any of the Kaiser Foundations hospitals and health care centers.

Pilar and I joined the group back in the summer, which meets once a month at Kaiser Permanente in Baldwin Park in the basement. Members are people like you and me. Amongst the members are teachers, nurses, doctors, receptionists and other Kaiser employees. There are also former patients in the group who experienced firsthand the love and care this group has to offer. Regardless, we all have in one thing in common - namely our love to fiber and our desire to help others in need. It’s a great cause, and it gives back to the community you live in. Enriching the lives of seriously ill persons and letting them know you care is beyond words. So if you would like to donate your time making a scarf or beanie for the Pink Ladies’ causes, please do so. Yarn donations are also welcome. Since “hairless” heads are very sensitive, the material you choose should be very soft and lightweight. All colors are welcomed since the hats and scarves are going to ALL cancer patients, young and old, male and female. Cancer doesn’t discriminate; it can happen to every one of us. ALL ABOUT YARN is donating FREE knitting/crochet lessons during their monthly meeting at Kaiser. Also if you purchase the yarn for your “Pink Lady” project at ALL ABOUT YARN you will receive a 10% discount, which is our thank you to you for giving towards a good cause.

Shawl, Scarf and Lakers Blanket

2009-11-14T10:53:00.000-08:00

We are always busy doing something at the Azusa adult school knitting class. Ana made this cool looking Lakers Blanket.

Anita finished this beautiful scarf for her grand daughter.
Donna made another great looking shawl.

New Projects

2009-11-06T21:37:00.000-08:00

Luu made this beautiful blanket.
This awesome looking lace scarf was made by Fran.

Betty is working on socks...

Lace Beanie
Baby Beanie
Denise crossed stitched this Incredibly looking picture above.

and last... Sarah made this amazing sweater.

Show and Tell

2009-07-19T12:31:00.001-07:00

Sharon is working on this crochet project.
Two beautiful necklesses made by Betty.

Hisa's two colored loom scarf .

Fran's horizontal scarf in a closeup.

Fran is working on this pastel color scarf, knitted the horizontal way.

Hortensia made this gorgeous afghan taken from the Barbara Walker "Learn To Knit" afghan book.

2009-07-19T12:31:00.000-07:00

completed projects...

2009-06-27T20:08:00.000-07:00

Donna made this diagonal scarf.
Hortensia is almost done with these nice looking slippers.

Joan used Opal yarn from Germany to knit this colorful scarf.

Luu also finished her rainbow scarf in a chevron pattern.

Alice just learned to knit. She is using Cascade yarn.

This vest made with Ella Rae Amity in color 8.

Summer class started...

2009-06-27T19:55:00.000-07:00

and our group had 17 knitters/crocheter in attendance and our enrollment is 26 students total. What a great number!!! Here are some pictures of our wonderful group.
From left to right: Norma (in pink sweater) Fran, Rose, Luu, Hortensia, Kristen, Ella, Julie, Joan, Betty (standing), Denies (half covered), Marta, Alice (only a little hair is looking out), Sharon (from behind) and Gloria in withe shirt.
left to right: Kristen, Ella, Julie,

left to right: Denies, Marta, Alice (in red), Sharon, Gloria, Hisa, Joan (standing in pink) Donna (covered) Norma (from behind), Fran, Rose, Luu

lefty to right: Hisa, Joan (standing) Donna and Norma covered, Fran, Luu, Hortensia, Kristen and Julie's hair.

Donna's Shawl

2009-05-20T20:49:00.001-07:00

newest projects from both classes...

2009-05-12T22:31:00.000-07:00

the green swatch above is actually a knitted sock yarn which knitters unravel as they knit. Fran bought it in Pasadena at the "Two Diva's" store. Interesting concept. Looking at first it was kind of strange having yarn like that. Fran didn't like it at first because the yarn was "curly". After a while she said, it grew on her and she is happy the way it knits up. As I said, interesting concept maybe I should knit some swatches of Opal sock yarn the same way??? No too much work...

Sherry with her Diagonal scarf which she finished in a records time. She used Sirdar Denim yarn in a lovely pink/white color combination.

Fran also completed her Diagonal scarf. However, she used two colors and alternated the triangle's. What a difference the two colors (Sirdar yarn) can make.

This is Fran, showing off her Cable Scarf which she started at the cable workshop a week earlier.

This is also the Diagonal scarf knitted with Luisa Harding yarn.

Betty knitted this lovely neck less. Hortensia brought in the pattern and Betty fell right at the spot in love with this timeless neck less.

This child sweater is made out of Araucania bulky yarn and the pattern was given to me by Patty from the Tuesday PM class. I made three different kind of sweaters from this one pattern. Each time I changed something to make it appear different.

Here the pink version using super bulky Argentina 100 % variegated wool.

Pilar and I in our just finished shawls. Mohair yarn was used on the purple shawl and I used Ella Rae Amity for the red shawl.

Beautiful, isn't it?

Gloria is working on twelve (12) pink scarves for the cancer walk. She is making one for every member of her team. The yarn used is Snowflake by Sirdar.

Here we have a closer look at Betty's neck less.

Annie Mae finished this little girls dress for her niece. She now is working on a second one which she will enter into the LA County Fair. Annie Mae enters the competition every year and every year she wins ribbons for her unique and well made creations.

Anne's sock in closeup. Take a look at this beautiful pattern in her sock.

This is Anne from the PM class with her bordered fancy sock. This is the very first time Anne knitting socks. Anne uses Ella Rae Silkens yarn.

Pilar and her shawl again, very elegant isn't she?

Marta and her first project...

2009-04-25T20:51:00.000-07:00

Marta came to the shop and finished her very first project ever. The pillow case turned out to be just perfect. Marta was so happy with her pillow case that she bought some yarn and started her second project right thereafter. This time she will work on scarf with different stitch pattern. She is using Ella Rae Amity yarn in dark blue.

NEWS FROM THE KNITTING CLASSES....

2009-04-14T14:37:00.000-07:00

How to make and measure a gauge was the recent topic at a workshop. Pictured are: Caroline, Loraine, Sherry, Rebecka, Fran and Mary.

Picture below features: Maude, Pilar, Delicia, Miss. Lilly and half of Maude's friend Barbara.

Patti worked on this sleeve less pullover. She reused the yarn, since she didn't like the bolero she previously made from it. Looking at this project and comparing it to the bolero, I agree with her. This one looks fabulous.

Hisa made this gorgeous scarf and she is wearing.

Denise shows off her beautiful shawl, which she made on a loom.

Gloria completed the afghan she was busy working on during the past few weeks.

Bobby finished all squares for her grand sons blanket.

Blanket for Tamara (my niece in Germany) and her soon to be born baby girl.

and some more....

2009-03-08T17:54:00.001-07:00

Kim our male knitter and always in a good mood and smiling.
Annie's baby blanket.

Jackie and her great scarf. She did such a wonderful job.

Margaret is working on preemie hats for the local hospital.

Sarah finished her light blue sweater which came out just darling.

more projects...

2009-03-04T20:11:00.000-08:00

below: Barbara finished the second baby blanket in a very short time.This is a head scarf Fran a customer from the yarn shop made out of Baby Bamboo yarn.

and here is Fran wearing it...

This is a shopping bag made by Anita from Araucania cotton yarn.

and this is my very own, and very first Brother KH881 machine knitted project ever. (on that machine) the material is a mixture of cashmere and baby merino yarn. Collar and bands are made by hand with size 0 needles.

I went and bought a little skirt to be worn together with the baby sweater.

another baby sweater, made out of Boucle yarn from Lion Brand.

This is a head band made out of two stands of yarn. One strand of Katia mohair yarn and a second strand is a cotton blend also from Katia yarn called carribe

Thursday AM Knitting and Crocheting Class

2009-02-21T13:37:00.000-08:00

Kim learning to use the USM and completed his first project.
Anita made these adorable beanie and baby sock combination.

The beanie hat in close up...

and I am working on a baby sweater knitted in needle size 0 yes ZERO for a new born.

Christmas time.....

2008-12-18T23:12:00.000-08:00

This is Pat and her incredible afghan. There are scallops on the edges and a still to be added ribbon. I'm sure this afghan will be the hit under Pat’s Christmas tree. This amazing project is for her daughter she told us during class today. Pat is fairly new in our group and as it turned out she is quiet an expert in crocheting.
We had our last class meeting before the winter break... Christmas is coming and we're not meeting until January 8 again. We celebrated with a pot luck and music. Pictured below are, left to right.. Sarah, Blanch, Jackie, Maria and Nella's arm...
Left to right: Luu, Maria, Anna and Nella...

Blanche and Jackie admiring our great food buffet...

Thursday AM class

2008-12-13T14:39:00.001-08:00

Luu made this adorable baby sweater with matching bonet and little booties.

Productive as ever....

2008-11-20T10:09:00.001-08:00

Here are some new pictures featuring our students with their respective project. As you can see all of them (projects) turned out just lovely.

Mary and her beautiful afghan, which she made for her grand daughter Kylie.

Bobbie is wearing one of her newest knitting project. She altered the pattern to make it a better fit for her petite figure. (and we are not jealous :))

Betty made some adorable warm slippers for herself.

Jackie knitted a gorgeous baby blue scarf for her youngest daughter Dominique.

Betty knitted the little beanies for a care project "preemies".

These cozy looking booties made by Dinora are a very nice gift for little girls.

This pattern rich jacket is the right fit for every little boy. Dinora takes pride in her unique looking pattern.

Dinora created a dream in pink... Barbie sure would like to have this one in her closet.

NEWS FROM THE AM KNITTING CLASS

2008-10-30T18:43:00.000-07:00

above: Rose finished a red afghan.

left to right: Dinora, our newest edition in the AM class, myself and Donna.

Donnar, Nella and Patty

Hisa, Pat and Margaret (from left to rigth)

Luu, Anna & Maria (left to right)

Joan, Bobbie and Dinora. (left to right).

Some of the pictures came out rather dark so I will re-make them and post them at a later time.

2008-10-24T15:13:00.000-07:00

Azusa Unified School District Board of Education and ribbon winner left to right: Dr. Barbara Dickerson, board member, Norma Fernandez, Pilar Perello, (back) Margaret Lamarre, Diana Estrello, Veronika Delvaux (instructor), Burt Hamilton, board member; Front row from right to left: Xilonin Cruz-Gonzalez, board member, Student voice on the board; Annie Mae Soliz (holding her winning afghan; Ria Benbow, program coordinator Azusa Adult School; and Maria Estrada. Missing students are: Anita Catalano and Bobbie Davis. Missing in the picture is board president Ilean M. Ochoa and Rosemarie Garcia. Mrs. Ochoa was presiding over the meeting but somehow didn't make it into the picture.

Our ribbon winners from both classes were recognized at the school board meeting last Tuesday. Every one received a nice Certificate of Achievement. This year’s winners are: Pilar Perello from the Tuesday class) recognized for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place knitting and crocheting; Bobbie Davis two 2nd and a 3rd places; Margaret Lamarre received a 2nd place for her knitted afghan. Margaret participates in the Thursday AM class; Diana Estrello, Tuesday class won a second place for her crochet afghan and a 3rd place for her shawl. Norma Fernandez placed 2nd and Maria Estrada won a 3rd place for her very first knitted project ever, a pair of green baby booties. Annie Mae Soliz who participates every year at the fair won a second place for her gorgeous colorful afghan. Annie is our most experienced fair winner ever. Anita Catalano won a third place for her blue knitted short sleeves sweater and a first place for her Fair Isle needle bag. CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF YOU!!!!!

Pregnancy - Estrogen - Woman

2008-10-15T22:22:00.001-07:00

PREGNANCY Q & A & more!
Q: Should I have a baby after 35?
A: No, 35 children is enough.
Q : I'm two months pregnant now. When will my baby move?
A: With any luck, right after he finishes college.
Q : What is the most reliable method to determine a baby's sex?
A: Childbirth.
Q: My wife is five months pregnant and so moody that sometimes she'sborderline irrational.
A: So what's your question?
Q : My childbirth instructor says it's not pain I'll feel during labor, butpressure. Is she right?
A: Yes, in the same way that a tornado might be called an air current.
Q: When is the best time to get an epidural?
A: Right after you find out you're pregnant.
Q : Is there any reason I have to be in the delivery room while my wife isin labor?
A: Not unless the word 'alimony' means anything to you.
Q: Is there anything I should avoid while recovering from childbirth?
A: Yes, pregnancy.
Q : Do I have to have a baby shower?
A: Not if you change the baby's diaper very quickly.
Q : Our baby was born last week. When will my wife begin to feel and actnormal again?
A: When the kids are in college.

'ESTROGEN ISSUES'
10 WAYS TO KNOW IF YOU HAVE 'ESTROGEN ISSUES'
1. Everyone around you has an attitude problem.
2. You're adding chocolate chips to your cheese omelet.
3. The dryer has shrunk every last pair of your jeans.
4. Your husband is suddenly agreeing to everything you say.
5. You're using your cellular phone to dial up every bumper sticker thatsays: 'How's my driving-call 1- 800-'.
6. Everyone's head looks like an invitation to batting practice.
7. Everyone seems to have just landed here from 'outer space.'
9. You're sure that everyone is scheming to drive you crazy.
10. The ibuprofen bottle is empty and you bought it yesterday.

Projects Completed

2008-09-29T10:52:00.001-07:00

Joan finished her red Bamboo/Silk sleeveless sweater over the summer. I thinks the shell looks great and can't wait she wearing it.and Betty completed the top down sweater with the really fancy old fashion looking buttons.
Lastly the beautiful baby blanket made by another student is knitted in lovely pastel colors with gorgeous crochet edges.

FEATURING NEWLY FINISHED PROJECTS….

2008-09-15T12:18:00.001-07:00

AND THE WINNERS ARE...

2008-09-15T11:22:00.000-07:00

The Beginning of a new school year can be at times overwhelming… Nevertheless, it’s an electrifying event with new challenges, obligations and excitements. On Sept. 5 I have visited with Pilar the LA County Fair and am very thrilled to announce winners from this year Fair. I haven’t found all projects we submitted so the list is not complete yet. I made some pictures through the glass case. Some pictures are great others a bit blurry… Maria Estrada, Norma Hernandez, Anita CatalanO, Margaret Lamare, Annie Mae Soliz and Bobbie Davis, all from the Thursday AM class have won 1st, 2nd, or 3rd prices. Whereas Bobbie snatched two ribbons, one for slippers and another one for a bag pack she crochet. The Tuesday evening class was equally successful in reaping in price ribbons. I pictured Diana’s afghan and shawl; Pilar’s baby outfit, a vest. I couldn’t make pictures of all items and although looking and searching for other projects I wasn’t able to locate all. Annie is going back there and will try to make pictures of missed items.

Summer is over ...

2008-09-01T18:47:00.001-07:00

...and we are ready to start a brand new school year. The first day of knitting/crochet class is: When: Thursday; September 4. 2008
Time: 9:00 AM – 12 noon
Where: Azusa Senior Center

When: Tuesday September 9. 2008
Time: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Room 14
Where: Azusa Adult School
1134 South Barranca Ave
Glendora CA 91740.

If you have any questions, please feel free to call the office at: 626-852-8400. If you need to speak to me, either call 626-780-6094 or leave a message at the office.

There are lots of exciting new knitting/crochet activities being planned for the upcoming semester. We will have several workshops on "The Know-How" to fix problems on a finished garment; we will explore finishing techniques that will introduce you to different ways of completing a project.

Vintage patterns are on the menu, and for all of you who are interested, we will introduce a sock knitting technique using not one, but two circular needles that also includes two socks at the same time on the same needle. Well, that will be fun…. Whoever said “no more socks for me” may change his mind because this fabulous way of knitting a pair of socks at the same time is really fantastic and “fool” proof!

For all the crochet devotees amongst us, you will be introduced to socks and to unique crochet pattern, such as “mesh fabric” using crochet arches, a popcorn dance pattern, the granite stitch, the chevron pattern and much more. Each square you will crochet could be a part of a beautiful afghan you may like to work on this semester. The nice thing about squares you can stop any time and work on something new. And when you’re ready again, pick up your hook and start another square. Squares are small enough to work between projects and big enough to create something beautiful such as an heirloom.

We will step back in time and touch a little on historic patterns (knit and crochet) and virtually visit a sheep farm in Australia and an Angora rabbit farm in England. It's quite an interesting procedure to learn how yarn is produced from "caring for the animal - growing - sheering - washing - rowing - spinning - dying - winding - until the wool ends up in your favorite yarn shop. Last but not least, I would like to introduce the idea of forming the Azusa Knitting/Crochet Guild. Comments, questions and ideas on that subject are welcome.

I'm looking forward to welcoming you for another semester of fun-filled yarn adventures at the Azusa Adult School knitting and crocheting classes.

Veronika

Welcome to "Kyle"...

2008-06-16T23:15:00.000-07:00

Kristen welcomed her new baby two weeks earlier than expected on Monday June 9. 2008. Mom and baby “Kyle” (not sure about the spelling) are fine and are back home. I have had the privilege to meet the young lady today. Kristen gave permission to post these pictures for all to see. She will try to come to class Tuesday evening. I told her to bring the baby with her……

Last projects from the Thursday class...

2008-06-16T17:37:00.000-07:00

Anita finishes her felted slippers. I like the color and the fancy little accessories.
Bobbie made this cute little green bag for her daughter.
The perfect gift for young girls, especially since Bobbie lined the bag with a nice liner as well.
Oh and we had a great pot luck on Thursday morning... Lot's of deliciously good tasting and smelling food... Thank you to all who brought food to class and celebrated the end of the semester. Summer school starts this Tuesday June 16; at 5PM

Sarah and Husband

2008-05-31T15:40:00.000-07:00

Sarah made this incredible looking cable sweater for her husband.

Patty's Ballerina Shoes

2008-05-31T15:36:00.000-07:00

ready to felt crochet bag..

2008-05-23T18:50:00.000-07:00

I used a kit to crochet this bag. I have not yet found the time to felt the bag. Maybe this weekend....

Betty and her Merino Socks

2008-05-22T18:44:00.000-07:00

knitted on size two needles are very light and soft. This was the first time Betty used 5 size 2 needles. The yarn is 100% Merino wool lace weight.

Thursday Group

2008-05-15T22:16:00.000-07:00

Sarah's Fair Isle needle pouch..

Three Fair Isle needle bags, first one Sarah made, second one is from Anita and Joan knitted the third needle purse.
This is a shawl, Maria's friend crochet. It's the most incredible handmade shawl I've seen.
Wool coat made by Pat Wagner for her granddaughter.
Margarete (l), Nella (m) and Pat (r) admiring Pat's knitted coat for her grand daughter.
I'm working on a felting purse, that's the body of it, before felting...
Hortensia and the very colorful striped afghan for her niece.

2008-05-08T13:30:00.001-07:00

Anita knitted this very useful Fair Isle needle bag
This is Anita in her new blue one piece sweater.
Bobbie made this gorgeous vest out of Ella Rae Amity yarn.
Donna used Dana White yarn to create this great looking checker board scarf.
Sarah completed this fashion looking shawl in record time. The yarn used is 100% wool and some Fun Fur yarn for added detail.

2008-05-06T17:42:00.000-07:00

Spring time and we still producing scarves. Gloria used Plymouth NOCH EROS Italian Collection yarn together with MYSTIK yarn from Italy made in Germany.

Miss. Lilly, ready for a colder climate, knitted this hat and scarf on a knitting loom. The yarn used is Sirdar, Click Chunky w/ Wool for the hat and red chunky Lion Brand yarn for the scarf.

Pilars project is from the new Norco pattern book. The yarn used; Araucania Ulmo Multi, she also used a lace weight yarn in red to run with it.
This is a simple top down baby sweater made out of 1 white and 1 pink skein of Sirdar Snuggly baby yarn.

New Projects from the Thursday class...

2008-05-01T14:20:00.001-07:00

Anna made this great looking shawl. She did an incredible job on the fringe. Don't you think?
Maria, a beginner presents proudly the her very first baby booties. She already has plans for a second pair.
Betty knitted this awesome looking shawl for cool summer nights.
Joan knitted her first Fair Isle project ever. Doesn't her needle bag came out just right in color and form?

Oh my...

2008-04-19T21:11:00.001-07:00

Well although we haven't posted any new pictures for a while, but we still were very busy and completed many projects. Lot's of things happened in the past few week. Pilar (Tuesday night knitting) and I have opened our very own yarn store. All About Yarn has had its Grand Opening today and we had a wonderful turnout. So here everyone who didn't had time to stop by pictures from the great event.
Sinthu and I. Sinthu is from the Tuesday evening class.
Our first two knitters receiving lessons at the shop.
Lydia, Patty and Adrian. Lydia is a knitter from the Tuesday evening group. Patty and Adrian are Pilar's children. Pilar is a knitter from the evening class and also my business partner. Together we own All About Yarn .
The proud owners of All About Yarn!
This is a picture from our first knit meeting at the shop on April 6.

Doesn't Margaret (Thursday group knitter) looks very comfy in the corner chair?
Luu and her daughter. Luu is a Thursday morning group knitter.
This is "Handsome", Pilar's grandson. As you can see we are training the next knit generation... Doesn't Daniel (his real name) looks very happy with his loom. Can you see the project he is working on. Adorable....
Donna took time out of her busy schedule to sing for us on our big day. and I tell you... does she has a great voice.... incredible. I told her she should sign up for American Idol... so we all go sit in the audience, knit and cheer for Donna..
Pilar, Gloria and Lydia from the Tuesday eveing class. Patty and Adrian, Pilar's children.

This is Virgodeen, she participated on our first knit meet-up at All About Yarn and she was amongst the first customers on the Grand Opening day.
Demetra and her beautiful daughter Candi. Mom goes yarn shopping and the little ones can play Lego.

Pilar and I. Not so sure I like myself in that picture.

Bobbie's Poncho...

2008-03-27T22:16:00.000-07:00

Bobbie finished the poncho she just started the other week. I love the color and especially the buttons...

Girls Dresses

2008-03-26T21:45:00.001-07:00

Patricia's Afghan

2008-03-26T21:40:00.000-07:00

Pat finished her afghan. She alternated knitted and crochet squares. Another great project completed.

Gorgeous crochet sweater..

2008-03-18T22:11:00.000-07:00

Another beautiful project finished .....

Tuesday Evening

2008-03-07T15:25:00.001-08:00

We had a "blast" Tuesday evening... Thanks to all who brought knitting projects to show to the WASC team. I believe we did exceptional well. All projects presented were just spectacular.

The first sign of "summer", my kitty likes to enjoy the sun and whereas during the winter she almost never leaves the house, as soon as the sun is shining she begs to go outside. I made some pictures of her lying on the ground enjoying the warm sun on her belly. She must have felt me taking pictures because she changed positions three times so that I sure get "all" of her in focus. Kitty's name is Sadie and she is part of our family since 1994.

Crochet Baby Jacket w beanie

2008-03-07T14:58:00.000-08:00

This is a simple and easy project for the beginner. The only decrease is on the sleeves. The jacket is crochet in one piece, divided for left and right front. The sleeves have been crochet directly onto the garment with one decrease in every row (nine times). The color was added as followed: Start at the right back and sc to the other site and back to the beginning. Row 3 sc back and add one stitch from the front panel to your row. R4, sc back and add another stitch from the opposite front panel to your row. Turn, ch1, sc to the other end and continue in this fashion until no stitches left to add or until there are only 3 stitches left on each front panel to increase.
The little beanie is knitted in the round K2 P2 and the decrease has been as followed: Row 1 all knit stitches: k2tog. P2; k2tog; continue in this fashion until there are no 2 knit stitches left. Row 2 all purls stitches p2tog, k1 p2tog; continue in this fashion until there are no 2 purls stitches left. (You now have reduced your stitches by 50% (half). Take tapestry needle and gather remaining stitches and loop the yarn though each stitch. There is NO bind off…. Secure the end of the yarn and cut.

Bobbi's hat

2008-02-24T12:28:00.000-08:00

This awesome and comfy looking hat is crochet and fits anyone wearing it perfectly.

The perfect fit.......

2008-02-22T12:35:00.000-08:00

Measure length of foot and chain to that length.
Row 1: Sc in second chain from hook and in each chain across, ch 1, turn.
Row 2: Sc across, inserting hook in back loop of row 1 and unworked loop of foundation chain; ch 1, turn.
Row 3: Sc across, inserting hook in back loop of row 2 and unworked loop of row 1; ch 1 turn.
Rows 4: Repeat row 3, inserting hook in back loop of the previous row and unworked loop of row below; ch1, turn.
Repeat row 4 until piece is measures a square.
Finish by gather one end for toe of slipper and sew 3/4 up.
Sew the other end 1/2 down and fold bottom up and sew it. (like a T)
By: Bobbi Davis

Theresa's variegated scarf

2008-02-21T12:22:00.000-08:00

Theresa, a student in my Thursday morning class has completed a beautiful variegated scarf. The yarn stripes itself in "blocks" of nicely matching shades in green, yellow and lighter blue. Just gorgeous...

Boy's Jacket

2008-02-17T20:46:00.001-08:00

This is a beginner’s jacket and knitted on a circular needle. The sleeves are knitted both at the same time and the collar is knitted in one piece together with the left and right front band.

Baby Blanket

2008-02-16T20:38:00.000-08:00

Skill Level
Easy

Finished Size
35 x 38 inches

Materials
Soft medium (worsted) weight yarn (6 oz/330 yds/170g per skein):
3 skeins white
2 skeins soft blue

• Size H/8/5mm crochet hook or size needed to obtain gauge
• Tapestry needle

Gauge
3 ch-3 sps = 2 inches; 3 ch sp rows = 1 inch

Pattern Notes
Weave in loose ends as work progresses.
Join rounds with a slip stitch unless otherwise stated.

Special Stitch
Cluster (cl): Yo, insert hook in indicated st, yo, draw up a lp, yo, draw through 2 lps on hook, (yo, insert hook in same sp, yo, draw up a lp, yo, draw through 2 lps on hook) 3 times, yo, draw through all 5 lps on hook.

Afghan
Row 1 (RS): With soft blue, ch 198, sc in 2nd ch from hook, [ch 3, sk next 3 chs, sc in next ch] across, turn. (49 ch-3 sps)

Row 2: Ch 4, sc in first ch-3 sp, [ch 3, sc in next ch-3 sp] across to include last ch-3 sp, ch 3, sc in the last sc on row, turn. (50 ch-3 sps)

Row 3: Sl st into the first ch-3 sp, ch 1, sc in same sp, [ch 3, sc in next ch-3 sp] across, turn. (49 ch-3 sps)

Rows 4–7: Rep rows 2 and 3. At the end of row 7 change color to white, turn.

Row 8: Ch 4, hdc in first ch-3 sp, (cl {see Special Stitch}, hdc) in same sp, [ch 3, sc in next ch sp, ch 3, (hdc, cl, hdc) in next ch sp] across to include last ch-3 sp, ch 3, sc in last sc on row, turn. (25 cls)

Row 9: Rep row 3.

Row 10: Ch 4, sc in first ch-3 sp, [ch 3, (hdc, cl, hdc) in next ch sp, ch 3, sc in next ch sp] across to include last sp, ch 3, sc in last sc on row, turn. (24 cls)

Row 11: Rep row 3.

Row 12: Rep row 8. At the end of row 12 change color to soft blue, turn.

Row 13: Rep row 3.

Rows 14–19: Rep rows 2 and 3. At the end of row 19 change color to white, turn.

Row 20: Rep row 10.

Row 21: Rep row 3.

Row 22: Rep row 8.

Row 23: Rep row 3.

Row 24: Rep row 10. At the end of row 24 change color to soft blue, turn.

Rows 25–31: Rep rows 13–19.

Rows 32–36: Rep rows 8–12.

Rows 37–43: Rep rows 13–19.

Rows 44–48: Rep rows 20–24.

Rows 49–55: Rep rows 13–19.

Rows 56–60: Rep rows 8–12.

Rows 61–67: Rep rows 13–19.

Rows 68–72: Rep rows 20–24.

Rows 73–79: Rep rows 13–19.

Rows 80–84: Rep rows 8–12.

Rows 85–91: Rep rows 13–19.

Rows 92–96: Rep rows 20–24.

Rows 97–103: Rep rows 13–19.

Rows 104–108: Rep rows 8–12.

Rows 109–115: Rep rows 13–19.

At the end of row 115, fasten off soft blue.

Border
Rnd 1: Attach white in last sc made on last row, ch 1, sc in same st as beg ch-1, ch 3, working along side edge, sc in sp formed by the ch sts at end of next row, [ch 3, sk sc at the end of next row, sc in sp formed by ch sts at end of next row] across to corner, ch 3, sc through sc on end of row 1, [ch 3, sc in next sp formed by beg ch] across to next corner, ch 3, sc through first sc on row 1, ch 3, working on side edge, sc in sp formed by the ch st at end of 2nd row, [ch 3, sk sc at end of next row, sc in sp formed by ch sts at end of next row] across to next corner, ch 3, sc in first sc on last row, [ch 3, sc in next ch-3 sp] across, ch 3, join in beg sc. (216 ch-3 sps)

Rnd 2: Sl st into first ch-3 sp, ch 1, sc in same sp, ch 3, [sc in next ch-3 sp, ch 3] around, join in beg sc, fasten off.

From Crochet World magazine, Pages 38-39

Aran Square

2008-02-16T20:27:00.000-08:00

H hook, no dye lot worsted weight yarn

Finished size - 12 inches

Directions:

Round 1 - ch 6, join with a sl st to form a ring

Round 2 - in ring just formed, ch 4, 2 TC, ch 2, * 3TC, ch 2* repeat from *to* 3 times, join with a sl st to the top of ch 4

Round 3 - ch 4, TC in same st, work 2 TC in each of the next 2 sts, **ch 3, in ch 2 sp on prev rnd work (sc hdc, dc, TC, dc, hdc, sc, this will be called cluster in round 5 ), ch 3* work 2 TC in each of the next 3 sts on prev rnd** repeat from **to** 2 times repeat from ** to * once join with a sl st to top of beg ch 4

Round 4 - ch 1 sc in same st, ch 5, skip 4 sts, sc in next st, *ch 8 sc in 1st TC of the next 6TC group on previous round, ch 5, skip 4 sts sc in next st * repeat from *to* 3 times , ch 8 join with a sl at to 1st sc

Round 5 - sl st into ch 5 sp, ch 1 * work, sc hdc, dc, TC, dc hdc, sc, ch 3, in next ch 8 sp work sc, hdc, 2 dcs, the next st you will work in to the TC that is in the cluster on Round 3, work one dc behind the ch 8 in this TC and work one dc in front of the ch 8 in the same TC, in the same ch sp work 2 dc, hdc, sc, ch 3 * repeat from *to * 4 times, join with a sl st to the first sc

Round 6 - ch 1, sc in same st, **ch 5, work 3 dc (corner sp on next rnd) in next TC on previous round, ch 5, sc in next ch 3 sp, ch 4, dc in the dc that is the front of the ch 8 dc that was worked on row 5, ch 4, sc in next ch 3 sp** repeat from **to ** 4 times but the last time you will end with join with a sl st to beg sc

Round 7 - sl st into ch 5 sp, ch 3 wok 4 dc in same sp, **ch 2, 3 dc in 2nd dc on corner sp, ch 2, in next ch sp work 5 dc, ch 1, in next 2 ch sps, work 4 dc, ch 1* in each sp, work 5 dc in next ch sp** repeat from ** to ** 3 times, repeat from **to* once, join with a sl st to top of beg ch 3

Round 8 - ch 3, dc in next 4 sts, **ch3, work 3 dcs, in 2nd dc of corner sp, ch 3, dc in next 5 sts, ch 1, (sk a st, dc in next st, dc in skipped st) 2 times, ch 1* dc in next 5 sts** repeat from **to** 3 times repeat from **to* once, join with a sl st to top of beg ch 3

Round 9 - ch 3, dc in next st, **popcorn in next st, dc in next 2 sts, in next ch sp work (sc, hdc, dc, hdc, sc ) dc in next st, 3 dc in next st, dc in next st, in next ch sp work (sc, hdc, dc, hdc, sc,) dc in next 2 sts, popcorn in next st, dc in next 2 sts, +dc in next ch 1 sp, (sk a st, dc in next st, dc in skipped st) 2 times+ repeat from + to + 2 times dc in next ch 1 sp,* dc in next 2 sts** repeat from **to** 3 times, repeat from ** to * once, join with a sl st to top of beg ch 3

Round 10 - ch 3,** popcorn in next st, dc in next st, popcorn in next st, dc in next st, ch 2, sk 2 sts, in next st work, dc, ch 1, dc, ch 2, sk 2 sts, dc in next 2 sts, 3 dcs, in next st, dc in next 2 sts, ch 2, sk 2 sts, in next st work, dc, ch 1, dc, sk next 2 sts, dc in next st, popcorn in next st, dc in next st, popcorn in next st, dc in next 2 sts, (sk a st, in next st work dc, ch 1, dc) repeat 4 times, sk a st, dc in next 2 sts** repeat 4 times ending with dc in next st. join with a sl st to top of ch 3

Round 11 - ch4, dc in same sp,** sk 2 sts, in next st, work dc, ch 1, dc, (in next ch sp work dc, ch 1, dc) repeat 3 times, dc in next 3 sts, 3 dc in next st, dc in next 3 sts, (in next ch sp work dc, ch 1, dc) repeat 2 times, sk 2 sts, in next sp work dc, ch1, dc, (sk a st in next st work dc, ch 1, dc) repeat 2 times (in next ch 1 sp work dc, ch 1, dc) 4 times** repeat from **to ** 4 times, join with a sl st. Fasten off.

Braid Cable

2008-02-16T20:10:00.000-08:00

Cable panel is 9 stitches wide on a field of Reverse Stockinette Stitch.

Row 1: Slip 2 stitches to cable needle and hold in front. Purl 1, and then knit 2 off the cable needle. Slip 1 stitch onto cable needle and hold in back. Knit 2 and purl 1 from cable needle. Repeat the front cross.

Row 2: P2, K2, P4, K1.

Row 3: P1. Slip 2 stitches onto cable needle and hold in back, K2, K2 from cable needle. P2, K2.

Row 4: P2, K2, P4, K1

Row 5: Cross back as in row 1, then cross front and repeat cross back.

Row 6: K1, P4, K2, P2.

Row 7: K2, P2. Slip 2 stitches onto cable needle and hold in front, K2, K2 from cable needle.

Row 8: K1, P4, K2, P2.

Repeat these rows for pattern.

To increase the width of the panel, add stitches in Reverse Stockinette Stitch to each side. For instance you can increase the panel's width to 13 stitches by adding two stitches to each side, purling on the odd numbered rows and knitting on the even rows.

Reverse stocking stitch

Works on any number of stitches.

Row one: Purl

Row two: Knit

Repeat these two rows for pattern.

Jackie's first project...

2008-02-12T22:53:00.000-08:00

Tuesday evening:
Jackie finished her first scarf and started already a second one.

NEEDLE POUCH COMPLETED

2008-02-12T22:51:00.001-08:00

I finished the pouch today by sewing the zipper in. It's just perfect for all sorts of shorter needles.

DOUBLE POINTED NEEDLE HOLDER POUCH

2008-02-11T16:39:00.001-08:00

This is an (almost) finished Fair Isle double pointed needle pouch. I lined the pouch with pink cotton and used yellow linen for the back. The front of the pouch is made of 100% wool, the same wool you are using for the project. I’ve washed the swatch so that the stitches can settle and the wool shrink to assure that it will not unravel. Since I don't have a zipper handy it will be added at later.

Another great afternoon at the Corner Bakery

2008-02-10T18:18:00.001-08:00

below: Annie, Pilar, Patricia
below: Pilar, Patricia, myself, Julie, Margaret

Knit-Together

2008-02-10T08:02:00.001-08:00

Today Sunday February 10th at 3PM at the Corner Bakery in Glendora...

Sunday's Knit-Together at the Bakery........

2008-02-03T08:09:00.000-08:00

Although it was a rather small group who came together, nevertheless we had a wonderful time.

Thursday Knitters Group

2008-02-02T16:44:00.001-08:00

Our Thursday knitting group has 24 members; unfortunately not all are pictured here. It seems we have really grown over the past six month. The Tuesday evening group is not much behind with 20 members.

Finished projects and lots of them....

2008-02-02T16:17:00.000-08:00

Sarah's shrug

Donna's scarf
Sarah waering her beautiful cable gardigan

Lena's silk beret Joan's fist cable (blue) hat and Betty's pink cable hat

Maria with her very first project knitted in the round.

A beanie for Mona

Rose added another pair of socks to her hand knitted sock collection.

Donna's beautiful blue vest.

Tuesday Evening Knitting/Crochet Group

2008-01-29T20:45:00.000-08:00

The new semester started off quit nicely. We have welcomed a few new students to our group and are looking forward to a creative and nice time ahead.

Here are some projects. Lourdes finished her yellow cable scarf and started a already a new project. This time around she is making a baby jacket with "bobbles".

A beautiful yellow bag and a pretty crochet dress in white and green made by Sinhu for her a little girl.

Pilar finished her shawl and it just looks gorgeous.

Spring Semester 2008

2008-01-28T12:37:00.000-08:00

Time goes by fast and as we turn around fall semester is over and spring semester begins. I have new and exciting projects planned for spring, truly something for everyone. There are easy projects for the beginner and more challenging once for the intermediate as well as for the advanced knitter and crocheter. You will have the opportunity to complete as many or as little items as you choose. Also remember, you can bring your own knitting ideas and projects to class: You can find the pattern for all featured project’s under the designated link.

Class Projects Spring 2008

The BOHO BERET featured in the LA Times. The design is adapted from Shannita Williams-Alleyne, A Mano Yarn Center in Los Angeles. Since I translated the pattern from knitting in crochet the crocheter under us can pick this beret as well. Both boho beret’s knitted or crochet measure on the knitting skill meter for the plain version beginning knitter and for the more elaborate pattern intermediate skills the same is true for the crochet version of this beautiful boho beret.

The EASY QUICK JACKET a very exciting project for the beginning knitter will guide the knitter trough increase and decrease as well as knitting bands and collars and making button holes. This project is designed for all types of yarn, colors and sizes because it is tailored for the individual regardless of age or size. There are five variations available to choose from including a crochet version. The double-breasted (blue), the V (green), the band (brown), the straight (purple) and the crochet version (mixed berry colors).

FAIR ISLE will be the project for our advanced knitters and crocheters. We will learn how to knit steeks, how to manage and handle two colors at the same time in the round. We will use the steek technique which means we will cut our knitted fabric open. Moor about steeks at a later time. We will start with a knitting/crochet double pointed needle case project, which is not yet feature here. Below are three pictures of multi color Fair Isle projects made by my friend Angelika who is a knitter for Knit Picks. Many of the projects feature in Knit Picks are made by Angelika.

Multi color Fair Isle pattern by Kathleen Taylor

Two color Fair Isle

BARBARA WALKERS AFGHAN a very popular project amongst knitters and crocheters is yet another project students can start. This is a larger project and I would suggest that you still try in between other items to work on.

Merino Wool

2008-01-27T15:56:00.001-08:00

Fine sock yarn: 100% Merino Wool

New Knitting Software

2008-01-27T15:36:00.001-08:00

I have purchased the Stitch & Motif Maker software and the Sock Wizard PC V2. The sock knitting sw is a charting sw for hand knitters. It's a very amazing tool for sock knitters. Just plug in the needle size, shoe size, the material you plan to use and the type of sock you like to knit, cuff to toe, or toe to cuff. Further you need to have the gauge numbers and decided what kind of heel you like to have. You can choose from ultimate diagonal or YO diagonal, or short-row with heel flap. You have three options to knit the flap, (eye of partridge, stockinette or regular heel stitch). There are eight options available for your toe section. When all numbers plugged in you will have the option of printing your personalized sock pattern. It will take you less than 2 minutes to complete inputs for the pattern. I really love this CD because it takes the guess work out of sock knitting.

The Stitch & Motif Maker software let you work on your own ideas and translate your creativity into a usable pattern chart to print.
Both sw are available for you to use. I will have my computer with me so all of you who are interested in printing customized sock pattern and motifs are welcome to use it.

You also have the opportunity to explore the Sweater Wizard which I have installed on the computer as well to your conveniences.

Toe sock without lace

2008-01-21T17:01:00.000-08:00

Gauge: 24 sts and 36 rounds = 4" over stockinette

Size: woman's medium

Toe:
Using the figure-8 method, co 16 (8 sts on each of 2 needles). Plain round: K all sts.Increase round: [K1, m1, k to 1 st before end of needle, m1, k1] twice. Divide 20 sts evenly among 4 needles. Work Increase round every other round until there are 48 sts.

Continues to work until the sock measures 3-1/2" less than the length of the foot, and then begins gusset increases.

Foot:

Work the following two rounds 9 times, or until there are 66 stitches:Even Round: knit to end of round.Increase Round: k3, m1, k to end of round, m1. K3

Heel will be worked back and forth over remaining 42 sts in round.

Fitting:

Begin short rows to knit the heel area, turning and wrapping and then going back and picking the wraps up. Continue to knit back and forth in this manner; then, to connect the heel flap to the gusset, knit to the gap and then decreases. Finally, create a small ribbed cuff and a sewn bind-off. (will explain)

Heel:

Row 1 (RS): K 32, w&t.

Row 2 (WS): P 22, w&t.

Row 3 (RS): K 21, w&t.

Row 4 (WS): P 20, w&t.

Row 5 (RS): K 19, w&t.

Row 6 (WS): P 18, w&t.

Row 7 (RS): K 17, w&t.

Row 8 (WS): P 16, w&t.

Row 9 (RS): K 15, w&t.

Row 10 (WS): P 14, w&t.

Row 11 (RS): K 13, w&t.

Row 12 (WS): P 12, w&t.

Row 13 (RS): K 11, w&t.

Next row (WS): P 11; p next 5 sts, picking up each wrap (loop of yarn wrapped around base of stitch) and purling it together with the st it had wrapped; pick up next wrap and place on left needle, p3tog (wrap on left needle, st that it had wrapped, and next st, all purled together). Turn work (do not wrap st).Next row (RS): Slip 1, k 16, k next 6 sts, picking up each wrap and knitting it together with the st it had wrapped; pick up next wrap and place on left needle, sssk (wrap, st that it had wrapped, and next st, all worked together.) Turn work (do not wrap st).Next Row (WS): Slip 1, p 22, p2tog. Turn work.Next Row (RS): Slip 1, k 22, ssk. Turn work.Repeat last 2 rows 7 times more until all heel sts have been worked; do not turn work on last row. 24 heel sts remain.

Leg:

The leg will be worked in the round over all 48 sts. Repeat round until leg is 6" from end of heel. (or desired length)

Ribbing:

Work 1x1 rib: k1, [p2, k2] to last st in round, k1.Repeat 2x2 rib round until ribbing measures 1". BO using sewn bind-off and weave in ends using tapestry needle.

Felted Möbius Bag Pattern

2008-01-21T16:38:00.000-08:00

Felted Möbius Swirl Bag

Materials:
Fleece Artist Kid Aran (100% kid, 50% wool, 250 g/ 400 m), 1 skein

1 braid Fleece Artist multicolor sliver

1 yd. smooth contrast-color waste yarn (there will be enough yarn to make 3 bags)

47" circular needles, U.S. size 11 (8 mm) (or size needed to obtain gauge)

felting needle and piece of foam

tapestry needle

stitch marker

round balloon

Gauge: 12 sts = 4" (10 cm) (before felting)

Abbreviations:

k knit

k1f&b knit once into the front and once into the back of the same stitch (an increase)

k2tog knit 2 stitches together

MCO Möbius cast-on

p purl

Begin handle and rim:

MCO 56. Before continuing, check to be certain there is only one crossing of needle and cable. Place a marker on right needle. Knit the first stitch, which is the slipknot. The first 55 stitches will alternate between being mounted with the front leg first (as you are probably used to) and the back leg first. Knit into the leg that comes first. When the marker appears beneath your needles on the cable below, you have completed the 55 stitches and from now on all stitches will appear mounted "normally" with the front leg first. The next stitch is formed by the double sides of the slipknot as it loops down around the cable below. Knit this stitch as if the double sides are one strand. Knit the next 27 stitches. Let regular yarn dangle while you use waste yarn to knit next 28 sts. Slide the 28 waste yarn sts back onto left needle. Now knit back across the 28 waste yarn sts on left needle, using regular yarn. (A line of waste yarn is now sandwiched in between rows of regular yarn. Later you will remove the waste yarn and knit the bag with the stitches left behind.) The marker now reappears in between your needles, announcing you have completed the first round.

Be clear about this before going on:Each time the marker appears in between your needles (not on the cable below) you are at the end of a round.

Continue handle and rim:Knit 5 rounds. Bind off. You have now completed the handle as well as the rim of the bag.

Bowl of bag:Pick up (but do not knit) the 56 stitches held by waste yarn, working on the side with purl bumps, picking up first one column and then the second. Pull out a length of cable before picking up the second column, so you can make a U-turn with the needle. Remove waste yarn. You will knit with regular yarn from here on. To continue, keep a loop of cable pulled out like a single Mickey Mouse ear at the beginning of each round, so that the remaining cable creates a short circular needle that suits your circle of knitting. Beginning at one corner, place marker, *k 28, pick up and k 2 extra stitches in next corner, repeat from * once (60 sts). *Knit 2, k 1 f&b, repeat from * to marker. (80 sts) Knit 12 rounds. *Knit 6, k 2 tog, repeat from * to marker (70 sts). Knit 4 rounds. *Knit 5, k 2 tog, repeat from * to marker. (60 sts) Knit 4 rounds. *Knit 4, k 2 tog, repeat from * to marker (50 sts). Knit 4 rounds. *Knit 3, k 2 tog, repeat from * to marker (40 sts). Knit 1 round. *Knit 3, k 2 tog, repeat from * to marker (32 sts). Knit 1 round. *Knit 2, k 2 tog, repeat from * to marker (24 sts). Knit 1 round. *Knit 1, k 2 tog, repeat from * to marker (16 sts).

Finishing:Cut tail of yarn. Use tapestry needle to thread tail through all 16 sts and pull tightly closed, sewing end securely. Weave in all ends and if there are any weak spots, especially near the handles, weave extra yarn through these areas to strengthen them before felting. Felting:Place bag in washing machine with a pair of jeans or tennis shoes or a half-dozen tennis balls. Set machine for low, hot water, on a regular (not gentle) cycle, and add two teaspoons of detergent. Set a timer and check on the progress every few minutes. Reset the machine to continue agitating (don't let it rinse) until the bag is the size you like. Pull it out and rinse by hand, then press between towels to remove excess water. Now pull, push and pat the bag into desired shape, giving the handle a good stretch and finger-pressing it smooth. Blow up a balloon inside the bag (this makes it nice and round) and let dry.

Needle-felting the swirl:Use a felting needle to attach a swirling path of multicolored sliver to the dry bag, placing the piece of foam beneath the surface where you are needle-felting. Let the swirl travel from one side up the handle and down into the bag. Remember, this bag has only one surface, and the swirl demonstrates this!

Reversible Cable Pattern

2008-01-21T16:28:00.000-08:00

Cast on 20 stitches

Row 1 - 11: k1,p1 across row

Row 12: c12b, k1,p1 to end of row

Row 13 - 23: k1,p1 across rows

Row 24: (k1,p1) 4 times, c12f

Repeat Rows 1 - 24 until desired length and bind off.

Lacy Toe Up Sock Pattern

2008-01-21T16:17:00.001-08:00

Gauge: 24 sts and 36 rounds = 4" over stockinette

Size: woman's medium

Abbreviations:
co cast on

k knit

k2tog knit 2 together

m1 make 1

p purl

p2tog purl 2 together

rs right side

ssk (slip, slip, knit) slip a stitch as if to knit to right-hand needle, slip a secondstitch as if to knit, slip both stitches back to left-hand needle and knit together throughback loops

sssk slip next 3 sts knitwise, one at a time, to right needle, insert left needleback into front of these 3 sts, knit them together

st(s) stitch(es)

w&t wrap and turnws wrong side

yo yarn over

Toe:
Using the figure-8 method, co 16 (8 sts on each of 2 needles).

Plain round: K all sts.

Increase round: [K1, m1, k to 1 st before end of needle, m1, k1] twice. Divide 20 sts evenly among 4 needles. Work Increase round every other round until there are 48 sts.

Use the chart to start the 6-row lace pattern, involving yarn-overs and right- and left-leaning decreases. To make yarn-overs smaller when needed, simply skip the yarn-over and pick up the yarn on the next row instead. Continues to work in the lace pattern until the sock measures 3-1/2" less than the length of the foot, and then begins gusset increases.

Foot:
K1, p2, work first row of lace pattern, p2, k to end of round.
Continue in established pattern until the foot of the sock measures 3-1/2" less than the length of the foot:

K1, p2, work next row of Lace Pattern, p2, k to end of round. Work the following two rounds 9 times, or until there are 66 stitches:

Even Round: K1, p2, work next row of Lace Pattern, p2, k to end of round.

Increase Round: K1, p2, work next row of Lace Pattern, p2, k1, m1, k to end of round, m1.

K1, p2, work next row of Lace Pattern, p2, k1. Heel will be worked back and forth over remaining 42 sts in round.

Fitting:
Begin short rows to knit the heel area, turning and wrapping and then going back and picking the wraps up. Continue to knit back and forth in this manner; then, to connect the heel flap to the gusset, knit to the gap and then decreases. Finally, create a small ribbed cuff and do a sewn bind-off.

Heel:
Row 1 (RS): K 32, w&t.

Row 2 (WS): P 22, w&t.

Row 3 (RS): K 21, w&t.

Row 4 (WS): P 20, w&t.

Row 5 (RS): K 19, w&t.

Row 6 (WS): P 18, w&t.

Row 7 (RS): K 17, w&t.

Row 8 (WS): P 16, w&t.

Row 9 (RS): K 15, w&t.

Row 10 (WS): P 14, w&t.

Row 11 (RS): K 13, w&t.

Row 12 (WS): P 12, w&t.

Row 13 (RS): K 11, w&t.

Next row (WS):
P 11; p next 5 sts, picking up each wrap (loop of yarn wrapped around base of stitch) and purling it together with the st it had wrapped; pick up next wrap and place on left needle, p3tog (wrap on left needle, st that it had wrapped, and next st, all purled together). Turn work (do not wrap st).

Next row (RS):
Slip 1, k 16, k next 6 sts, picking up each wrap and knitting it together with the st it had wrapped; pick up next wrap and place on left needle, sssk (wrap, st that it had wrapped, and next st, all worked together.) Turn work (do not wrap st).

Next Row (WS):
Slip 1, p 22, p2tog. Turn work.

Next Row (RS): Slip 1, k 22, ssk. Turn work.

Repeat last 2 rows 7 times more until all heel sts have been worked; do not turn work on last row. 24 heel sts remain.

Leg:
The leg will be worked in the round over all 48 sts.

[K1, p2, work next row of Lace Pattern, p2, k1] twice.

Repeat round until leg is 6" from end of heel.

Ribbing:
Work 1x1 rib: k1, [p2, k2] to last st in round, k1.

Repeat 2x2 rib round until ribbing measures 1".

BO using sewn bind-off and weave in ends using tapestry needle.

Möbius Pattern

2008-01-21T16:04:00.000-08:00

Materials:
Fleece Artist 4-ply cashmere (100% cashmere, 50 g/ 170 m), 1 skein47" circular needles, U.S. size 10 (6 mm) (or size needed to obtain gauge)tapestry needlestitch marker

Gauge: 12 sts = 4" (10 cm)
Finished size: 27" circumference, 10" width
Abbreviations:
k knit
k2tog knit 2 stitches together

MCO Möbius cast-on
p purl
p1f&b purl once into the front and once into the back of the same stitch (an increase)
yo yarn over

Möbius cast-on:
MCO 80 sts as follows:Place a slipknot on the middle of the 47" needle's cable, with the needle ends hanging down like an upside-down U. With your right hand, take the left needle and circle it counterclockwise, placing it in front of and against the slipknot (which is in the middle of the cable). The right side of the upside-down U remains hanging down and is ignored during the Möbius Cast-On (MCO) process.

Your right hand holds the needle (which is pointing to the left) and the slipknot against the cable, so the slipknot cannot slip around. Tension the yarn and cable in your left hand by using your index finger to hold the yarn up high and your remaining three fingers and thumb to firmly grasp the cable and yarn. You should see a triangle: its base is the cable, the yarn forms the right side and your left hand is the left side. It is easiest to work with a large triangle, with the base several inches long.

Step 1: Continuing to hold the slipknot firmly against the cable with your right hand, which is also holding the needle, point the needle at yourself, then dive under the cable and up inside the triangle. Lean on the yarn and swing right back the way you came, bringing the scoop of yarn with you. In other words, retrace your path, ending in the position you began (starting position).
Step 2: Continuing to hold the slipknot firmly against the cable with your right hand, which is also holding the needle, point the needle up and over the yarn, then down behind it to bring a scoop of yarn back to starting position. This is essentially a yarn-over.

Have a look: there are two stitches on the needle and two on the cable below. The first one on the cable is the slipknot. To count MCO stitches, count only the stitches on the needle. Never count the stitches on the cable below, although they will be knitted. Since the slipknot is on the cable, it is not counted.

Repeat steps 1 and 2 over and over until the required number of stitches is cast on. For an MCO of 80, repeat steps 1 and 2 until 80 sts are on the needle and 80 on the cable below.
Begin to knit:Before continuing, check to be certain there is only one crossing of needle and cable. Place a marker on right needle. Knit the first stitch, which is the slipknot. The first 79 stitches will alternate between being mounted with the front leg first (as you are probably used to) and the back leg first. Knit into the leg that comes first. When the marker appears beneath your needles on the cable below, you have completed the 79 stitches, and from now on all stitches will appear mounted "normally" with the front leg first. The next stitch is formed by the double sides of the slipknot as it loops down around the cable below. Knit this stitch as if the double sides are one strand. Continue knitting until the marker reappears in between your needles, announcing that you have completed your first round.

Be clear about this before going on:Each time the marker appears in between your needles (not on the cable below), you are at the end of a round.

Begin diagonal lace pattern:*Yo, k6, k2tog. Repeat from * to end of round. Knit one round. Repeat last two rounds 10 more times.

Lace edging:
Round 1: *[Yo, k1] 2 times, [yo, k2tog] 3 times. Repeat from * to end of round.
Round 2: Knit.
Round 3: *Yo, k2tog, repeat from * to end of round.
Round 4: Knit.
Round 5: *Yo, k2tog, repeat from * to end of round.
Round 6: Knit.

Garter edge:
Round 1: *P1f&b, p3. Repeat from * to end of round.
Round 2: Knit.
Bind off loosely.

Blocking:The cashmere cowl will self-block as you wear it. With wear, the yarn will bloom to produce a lovely halo.

Boho Beret Pattern

2008-01-21T15:41:00.000-08:00

How to make the boho beret

Los Angeles Times; January 6, 2008

Adapted from Shannita Williams-Alleyne, A Mano Yarn Center, Los Angeles:Time:

About 5 hours

Size: Medium (Large)

Materials: 2 skeins of any worsted-weight or heavy-worsted-weight yarn, about 150 yards total

Needles: U.S. size 7 and U.S. size 9 16-inch circular needles; U.S. size 9 double-pointed needles

Here's a list of terms used in the pattern:

K: knit

P: purl

Tbl: through the back loop

M1: make one

YO: yarn over

K2TOG: knit 2 together

SKP: slip, knit, pass the slipped stitch over

DPN: double-pointed needles

I-cord (sometimes called the idiot-cord): It's done by knitting the remaining stitches on a DPN and at the end of the row, instead of turning your work, slide the stitches to the opposite end of the DPN and knit again in the same order.

"When necessary": When knitting on circular needles becomes difficult, switch to DPNs, which allow you to knit in the round over smaller spaces.

1. Using the size 7 needle, cast on 88 (96) stitches. Join for knitting in the round and knit in 1x1 twisted rib for 1 1/2 inches (Note: Twisted rib is K1, tbl, P1, repeat from * to end of round). Place a marker.

2. Change to size 9 needles and increase as follows:*K2, M1, repeat from * around to end of round.

3. Knit even until hat measures 2 1/2 inches from beginning then begin eyelet pattern:

Row 1: *YO, K2tog, repeat from * around

Row 2: Knit

Row 3: *YO, SKP, repeat from * around

Row 4: Knit

Repeat eyelet pattern once more (or until eyelet insert is as wide as you want it to be). Then knit even until hat measures 5 1/2 inches from the beginning.

Begin decreases as follows (remember to change to double point needles when necessary):

Decrease rounds 1: Decrease 2 stitches -- once at the beginning of the round and once about halfway through the round. Work even for 1 inch.

Decrease round 2: *K2, K2tog, repeat from * to end of round. Work even for 1 inch.

Decrease round 3: *K1, K2tog, repeat from * around. Work even for 1 inch.

Decrease round 4: *K2tog, repeat from * around. Work even for 1 inch.

Decrease round 5: *K2tog, repeat from * around. Work even for 3/4 inch.

Decrease round 6: Repeat round 5. Knit 1 round even.

5. Repeat round 6 until you have 4 to 6 stitches remaining. Place all remaining stitches on 1 double-point needle and knit in 1-cord for 3 inches. Bind off. Weave in ends. Tie 1-cord into a knot.

Alternative ending (without top knot): End round with 5 or 6 stitches. Cut yarn and pull tail through remaining stitches. Pull tight. Weave in ends.