Easter Explosion

I've been knitting like mad for various kids' Easter gifts the last couple of weeks! Luckily, Jen came to visit just in time, and helped me wrap up the last couple of sweater/vest combos. Thanks, Jen!!!

First up are my new favorites. . . two little lambs, knit using Barbara Prime's FREE Fuzzy Lamb pattern. Yup, free! These little cuties are quick to make, and a ton of fun! The little felt egg purses came from the One Spot at Target. Love it!


I knit them using stash Lion Brand Wool-ease in fisherman and mushroom, on a size 6 needle. One skein of each color was enough for both lambs. I usually knit them up in a couple of hours, and then spend another hour and a half or so seaming, stuffing, and perfecting eye placement. . . totally worth every minute!

Next up are more bunnies. Sooo cute! Jen took these shots for me (thanks again. . . !) Also a Barbara Prime pattern, these bunnies were knit with white Vanna's Choice acrylic, Lion Brand Wool-ease in fisherman, and Encore Worsted in fox. Their dresses and sweaters are all Caron Simply Soft with the exception of the green vest, knit in Patons Astra.





Thanks so much for visiting, Jen! See you soon for your Yarn Tasting!

Projects, Projects, Projects! (image heavy)

It's definitely official now. . . the grad school project bonanza is in full swing! In keeping with my tradition of crafting up a storm to deal with school stress, I currently have 10 WIPs, and many lovely finished things to show you!

First up is Jaime's 30th birthday afghan. Working almost every day for about three weeks, I was able to finish this one a full five days before the celebration -- a record for me! The pattern is called Trip Around the World, from 50 Sensational Crochet Afghans and Throws.




Next is a baby gift for one of Mom's co-art teachers. This is E. Zimmermann's February Baby Sweater! Love it!!! The yarn is Zitron Ecco, and I used just about 1 1/2 skeins on a size 7 needle.


I sent Hannah arm warmers for Valentine's Day, also from Zitron Ecco, and these babies used less than 1 skein. Fantastic! I modified the pattern to be entirely cabled . . . no pesky ribbing!


On to the WIPs. . . beginning with Barbara Prime's Easter Bunny. Too cute! This little guy is knit from Berroco Comfort, using worsted for his body and dk for the clothing. A pleasure to knit, and surprisingly fast!


Next, a clapotis. You knew it had to happen sooner or later! This one is for Jen's shop, a sample per her request. Yay for sparkley yarn! This is Blue Heron's rayon-metallic blend.


Last, but certainly not least, is a wonderfully warm, squishy-soft scarf I'm crocheting as a pattern tester for my new friend Allison. I'm working it in Encore chunky weight, and I looooooooove it!


See? I'm coping just fine!