Celestial Creations

As summer winds down. . .

2008-08-13T09:36:00.005-05:00

Last night, I finished the last of my summer classes. Phew! So glad to be done!!! I'll have three weeks off, sort of, before the start of fall semester. On the 23rd I'll take the first of my certification exams.

In the meantime, I've been knitting a bit here and there and trying to clear my plate of past projects to get going on holiday gifts. First up, Hannah's birthday gifts!

Pattern: Short-Sleeved Cardigan with Ribbing
Source: Fitted Knits, by Stephanie Japel
Yarn: Plymouth Galway Chunky, Color 1 (natural), 5 skeins
Needles: Sizes 8 and 10

Pattern: Pinkie Blankie
Source: Knitting Juju, by Julie Ridl
Yarn: Cascade 128, color 8559 (orange!!!) Thanks, Season!
Needle: 15
Bedtime Story: Goodnight Bush

Hmm, what else? I'm working to finish up a hat commission, just needing to attach the brim. That should be done soon! I've also completed my second Great American Afghan square, brought Starsky out of the UFO zone, and am working on three silk and silk-blend samples for Jen.

Recent Creations

2008-07-19T18:41:00.005-05:00

It's been a busy two months. . . I finished spring semester, leapt straight into summer courses, AND we celebrated our one-year anniversary! Of course, I'm still knitting like crazy. . .

The Lady Eleanor entrelac stole, made for Jen's store.

Melissa's Starry, Starry Night baby afghan, crocheted in Berroco's Comfort worsted.

More of Barbara Prime's little cutie lambs.

Barbara's Easter bunny, reworked as a Peter Rabbit-ish doll.

My first Great American Aran Afghan square!

And, of course, the infamous Meatwad hat for the famous Matteo.

Meet Oscar!

2008-05-04T17:07:00.005-05:00

He's hit the turtle jackpot! We certainly didn't need another pet, but poor Oscar was found in the garbage (hence the name) at my SIL's work, and needed a home. He's sooo cute! We think he's a midland painted turtle.

Check out the pad! (still in progress. . .) Oscar's over on the left.

Easter Explosion

2008-03-24T10:28:00.003-05:00

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)

2008-03-02T09:45:00.005-05:00

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!

Umm. . . no?

2008-02-22T23:32:00.002-05:00

Glowing Embers

2008-02-06T15:19:00.001-05:00

I really need to be better about updating my blog! Thanks to ravelry, I don't even read other people's blogs anymore, much less update mine!

Many, many projects have been finished. . . some small and unblogworthy. . . and it's only February 6. Is it obvious yet that I'm back in grad school?! Knitting is definitely my coping strategy!

Gusto's afghan is finally done. Here it is, flowing out of the gigundo box I had to find to ship it in. I insured the sucker for $300, and am now secretly praying it gets lost in the mail!

This was one of those projects that sat around just a little too long, getting on my nerves and creating a lot of resentment for the space it took up. With that said, much love to you Gusto, and I hope you enjoy it for many years to come! Red Heart is a little like cockroaches, in my mind. . . they'll both be around long, long after we're gone. This project came out of Home Sweet Home Afghans, a really nice little resource! I made it a little wider and longer than required, per Gusto's request!

I've also finished not one, but TWO Hemlock Ring blankets. You'll remember that it was on my New Year's resolution list, which I'm working through like a champ. I'm psyched to be teaching the blanket as a class at Robena's Trumpet Hill shop this month and next! These babies were worked up in Cascade 220 Heathers (purple) and Cascade Eco Wool, respectively. The purple one follows Mr. Tweed's specifications, using just about 650 yards. The gray one used almost all of the two Eco skeins Robena sent home with me, yielding three additional pattern repeats and using almost all of the 956 yards! It's mammoth!

New Year's Project Resolutions!

2007-12-16T17:54:00.000-05:00

A little early, but I can't think of another way to get them out of my head!

1. An afghan for my Auntie Linda's new farmhouse
2. A cabled vest for Grandma Judy
3. The sheep afghan from the Holiday 2007 Knit Simple mag (above!)
4. Hemlock Ring Blanket by Jared Flood
5. Demi sweater from Rowan Vintage Knits

Five seems doable. . . reasonable. . . especially with school and two jobs! Not to mention the endless baby blankets I always end up making ;)

Happy Holidays, all!

Knitting away. . .

2007-11-02T20:51:00.000-05:00

Pattern: "Snowflake Socks" IK Fall 2007
Yarn: Wildfoote, in Blue Boy and Vanilla
Needles: sz. 3 dpns
Time: two weeks so far, working on and off!

These socks are a holiday gift for a good friend. . . who'd better not be reading my blog! SO pretty, and going so quickly! This is my second attempt at color work. I'm also working on a sweater for me, ME, ME!!! Yay! See below. . . .

Pattern: "Starsky" from Knitty.com
Yarn: Reynolds Rapture
Needles: Denise, sz. 10
Time: just about a week, and three skeins in!
This yarn was a wedding gift from the fabulous Jen, and we're working on it as a knitalong. . . Jen was smart, and dunked her swatch. It GREW! I might be frogging soon :-P No fun at all. What IS fun is that this yarn spit-splices! No weaving in ends for me!

I'm Baaaack!

2007-10-15T21:47:00.001-05:00

I'm married! I'm back in school! I'm working another new job! And yet. . . I'm still knitting. John and I had a total blast at our wedding -- so many of our friends and family were able to make it that it was a little overwhelming. Here's a shot of us at the end of the night, tired and happy (and wearing glow bracelets! Don't ask!)

We honeymooned in Toronto, where we saw Chinatown, Asiatown, Lettuce Knits, and Evil Dead: The Musical. What was that? Oh, Lettuce Knits? Yes, it was awesome :) Oh, and Evil Dead was a zombie musical. Yup. We were 1 row away from the splatter zone. Yup -- splatter zone. Blood, guts, and brains. Zombie. Musical. Check it out:

That's Lettuce Knits, not Evil Dead. Sorry, no shots of me with the zombies! But seriously, it was a really (strangely) good time!

Now, for the good stuff. . . the KNITTING! I finished the Bliss baby blanket, and it came out beautifully. This is the blanket I want to make for every special baby forever. It's a-m-a-z-i-n-g in person! Enjoy, baby Lela!

Pre-blocking. Don't unravel on me now!

Soaking away in the sink. . . mmm. . . yummy. Not.

Ta-da! Blocked out in all her glory. So cool!

Wedding Shower Shots!

2007-06-17T20:28:00.000-05:00

Life has been extremely busy, what with our new jobs and the wedding only 20 days away! To help make up for it, here are some shots of today's bridal shower!

Many thanks and much love to my bridesmaids, Hannah and Jessica, and to all of our family and friends!

Arwen Update

2007-03-14T17:02:00.000-05:00

My Cardigan for Arwen is almost done! I've been working along on the baby blanket and so many other little projects that it's been neglected for the last month or so. I blocked it yesterday (on my bed -- what a pain!), but still need to stitch it up. Here's a fun little peek at the miles of cabling:

The stitching itself went very quickly, I just got a little bored with it. I've had serious serial project starting this last month, due in no small part to the opening of a new lys here in Sch'dy. Maureen's Yarn Boutique doesn't have a website up and running yet, but she does have a mighty good selection of Patons Kroy Sock Yarn. Perfect for Eunny's Endpaper Mitts, and washable! I'm going with the flax and whitecap colorways, but can't cast on until Arwen is officially finished. One good little motivator is Maureen's Sit 'n' Stitch session next week -- I'd love to wear it there, assuming it fits me and all! Argh, row gauge! It hates me!

In other news. . . I treated myself this week! Both books are must-buys, and both were available my local Barnes & Noble (despite Socks being listed with a release date of April 1). Happy early birthday to me!

Money is GOOD!

2007-02-28T12:41:00.000-05:00

John got a job today! Life is good again! He'll be working as a cable technician for Time Warner, meaning that our internet and tee-vee will now come with free tech support 24/7. Mom and Dad are very happy about this particular point, as our tee-vee is currently their tee-vee. That's right, we're living at home right now. The wedding is in July, meaning that we can save money like crazy people to buy a place of our own, a place to fill with fibery goodness and spinning wheels. This place is just a little closer now that he's gotten his job! Yay, yay, yay! Congratulations sweetie :)

This really is a good day. Vogue's spring preview is out, and the forecast is a lacy one. Here are a few of my favorites:

Gotta love the cover. It looks like a recycled pattern from Knit.1 a few seasons ago, but I love it just the same. Joann's has great lace insert material for .99 a yard. Can't beat it!

So cute. I love the nautical theme. Bikinis, sweaters, bags, jewelry, undies -- bring it on! Keep 'em coming!

This piece would be great for work, especially in the summer. I'm really enjoying the "braided" necklines Vogue's featured in these last few issues! I have yet to try one though. . . gotta rectify that ASAP.

As always, I love the baby stuff. Look at that embroidery!

New year, new projects. . . and a 2006 surprise!

2007-02-18T17:09:00.000-05:00

John and I are back in NY (note the new, Arizona-less header!), living closer to our families and planning to return to school in the fall. In the meantime, I've been knitting up a storm!

My fave ASU professor and his wife are expecting their first baby in April, so I've been working away at the Debbie Bliss Alphabet Blanket from The Baby Knits Book. The pattern calls for super-spendy Bliss Wool-Cotton, so I substituted Brown Sheep's Cotton Fleece in Cotton Ball. At about 50% complete, here's a peek at the project:

Every row has a letter that I like to watch grow, and for the first row it was Y. How pretty is that?!

I'm also beginning work on the Arrr! Baby Set from the Winter 2006/2007 issue of Knit.1, but with a twist. . . I thought that pink and white would be just perfect for Abby.

I finally have photos of the last big project of 2006, my mom's holiday gift. I made Breezy Cables from the Spring 2006 issue of Interweave Knits. Instead of Lion Cashmere, I went with Cascade 220 -- talk about savings! The cost was less than half of what it would have been with the cashmere, and I honestly prefer the sweater in the darker, gray shade.

My favorite part of this design was the plan for the pockets. They're knit into the front so seamlessly!

Arwen Along Progress!

2007-01-07T00:13:00.000-05:00

Finally, a sweater for ME. ME, Me, me!!! I spent most (all) of the day yesterday watching Ugly Betty on abc.com and knitting on my beautiful Arwen sweater. It's progressing along pretty rapidly:

The back is finished but still in need of blocking, and the left front panel is well on its way!

Happy New Year!

2007-01-02T00:16:00.000-05:00

The new year is upon us. . . and I haven't finished blogging about last year's projects! My last minute works included scarves for Cindi and Jaime, wrapping up Abby's sweater, and crocheted slippers for a Secret Santa swap.

Pattern:Rowan Babies Daydream to fit 1-2 yrs
Yarn:Plymouth Royal Bamboo 4.5 balls
Needles:Sizes 2 and 3
Time:Too long! This pattern is gorgeous but the finishing is less than fun. Royal Bamboo is slippery and makes weaving in ends a Royal Pain! The sleeves also came out a little too short for Abby, but might pass for intentional 3/4 length. I'll need to check it out the next time I'm home, and if it takes more than a little work I'll probably opt to make something else, and hang on to this piece for a (far) future mini-me.

Pattern:Interweave Crocheted Slippers, Kid's 5
Yarn:Lion Brand Wool-ease in blush heather, rose heather, and gray heather
Hook:Size I
Time: About 2.5 hours! Love these!

Pattern:sc, ch 1 mesh
Yarn:Plymouth Combolo
Hook:Size N
Time:About 5.5 hours for both
These scarves have been a huge hit, which makes the simplicity of their design that much sweeter. The mesh design disappears, allowing the yarn to shine. Thanks be to Jen for the fabulous materials!

Oh, and I made some kick-ass stitch markers, too. These little guys are one of four sets in different colors, all featuring a skull as the odd marker for marking rounds, right sides, etc.

For lack of a better title. . . Post #70!!!

2006-12-06T03:19:00.000-05:00

Yes, it's true! I haven't posted in almost a month because I'm a bad, bad blogger. But, good news -- I'm getting close to my 100th post! Super exciting. Sort of. Okay, not really at all. Work with me here!

I've been crafting up a storm in anticipation of the pending holiday doom, and am proud to say that I *think* I might actually have all of my gifts finished in time for giving. No Hanukkah sweaters in April this year! The worst part of it is that I can't post most of what I'm working on, as the intended recipients are probably reading!

First, gifts for me. . . Textured Knits and Vintage Knits, both filled with WIMs for next year. All for me, me, me! Of the two, Vintage Knits is by far my favorite. The designs are beautiful, and of the 30 included I would actually make 27. Not bad, not bad! I'm especially excited about all of the bobbles and girly, flowery sweaters. Textured Knits is also very good, but the patterns aren't quite as inviting. The one pictured on the cover is one of the best. What it really has going for it is that I can imagine all of the knits in multiple yarns, and it'll be a great book for de-stashing a little.

Hannah's gifts are also finished (yes, you're getting something besides money this year!), and include a groovy hat with matching mittens, all striped using the jogless jog method. It keeps the rounds nicely lined up, but does create an oh-so-slightlynoticeable diagonal impression. You can see what I mean in the hat, but the mittens are clean side up. Now, lest you demand to know why I'm revealing these gifts so far in advance, it's because she already knows they're coming (okay, the hat was a surprise. SURPRISE!)The mittens were requested many months ago, and are finally finished and ready for wearing. The Necessary Details are as follows:
Pattern: Easy Striped Mittens Flier from Knit Simple
Yarn: Cascade 220 in Pear and Celery Heathers
Needles: Sizes 5 and 6 double points
Time: Each mitten took a day, the hat two days. Plus frogging! Gotta make those stripes perfect!

My entrelac scarf is also finally finished, received by Jessica, and post-able in all of its glory! I really loved working on it, and am really pleased with how it turned out. I decided to go ahead and block the scarf so that it would lie a little flatter and look wider, and it did just what I'd hoped for. Admire it here! Just to review, I totally stole the idea from the ever talented AJ. The pattern is Knitty's Danica, and the yarn Patons Soy Wool Stripes in Natural Earth. It didn't take more than about 2 weeks of working on it between other projects, and the pattern was incredibly easy to remember. If you've been contemplating entrelac, just try it! Jen's mom did!

The Great AZ Tour. . . aka Blogifying Dad!

2006-11-15T23:47:00.000-05:00

This has been one busy week! It began on Friday the 10th, when Jen and I took a day trip (read: ALL DAY trip) to Sedona for photos and fibers. We had a great time, despite the insane traffic. Check it out:
Big, cool-looking rocks. . .
in what's considered to be a "Big Park." Insightful, no?

We had a great time hiking around and enjoying a little picnic we'd packed. . . but the real fun began when we hit Knit 1 Bead 2, an awesome little shop in Jerome. The yarns are organized by color, which makes for an overwhelming (in the best way!) shopping experience! I did a little damage to the checkbook with 2 skeins of Koigu, 1 skein of Cascade 220, and the newest issue of Interweave.

Dad came into town on Sunday, and Monday afternoon we were off on another trek -- this time out to Prescott, home to dozens of antique shops and the historic Palace Saloon. Doc Holiday and the Earp brothers used to eat, drink, and play cards there -- so we thought we'd eat there, too. Awesome burgers and rootbeer! The scenery was gorgeous, but keep an eye out for those killer snakes and bugs!

Project updates will follow shortly!

WIP Week!

2006-11-06T14:13:00.000-05:00

Firt thing's first. . . I finally finished Hannah's Shedir hat, a WIP for the last few months. I just could not get motivated to finish this project! The cables were time consuming and fickly, and I'm still not happy with the way my stitches look. Hopefully a little pinning and steaming will do the trick! It should be on its way to Potsdam shortly.

I've also been working away at the Danica scarf in between calls at work. Paton's SWS yarn is absolutely perfect for this! The colors divide into blocks beautifully, and everyone seems to really like it. I want it to be a bit flatter, so it'll probably end up under the steam, too. Lots and lots of finishing to do. . . and Chanukkah is only five weeks away!

This little puppy is soon to be ripped out, but I promised Jen that I'd take a photo of him first. He is my first official fair isle experience, so it's only right to document him -- in all his imperfection! Being the overly-worrisome knitter that I am, I pulled waaaay too tightly on the first few rows and puckered the fabric. I also completely forgot to make the armholes! This is supposed to be a dog sweater!

Happy thoughts, happy thoughts. . . Jen brought back mucho yarn from home! Thanks, Jen! I can't wait to get started!

Ooh, cool!

2006-10-26T13:34:00.000-05:00

HowManyOfMe.com

There are:
72
people with my name
in the U.S.A.

How many have your name?

Yes, I am that crazy!

2006-10-25T03:33:00.000-05:00

In keeping with my recent cable fetish, I made Daisy a sweater. Why would she need a sweater in Arizona, you ask? Because my dog shivers when the temperature drops below 70. Seriously. Oh, and because she's really, really cute in it!
The Necessary Details:
Pattern: Knit Simple Fall 2006, "Fit for a King(Charles Spaniel)"
Yarn: Red Heart in Burgundy, 1 skein
Needles: Sz. 8 straights and dpns
Time: Umm. . . 10 days?
Modifications: Many! This sweater is about 50% larger than the one in the pattern. Daisy only weighs 23 pounds, but she's built like a horse! I cast on 74 sts and then fudged from there, adding about two inches to the overall length and width.

Can I just say that I love KnitSimple? The patterns are very well written, and the mailing time is great -- I was able to finish two full patterns before the winter issue arrived yesterday! In other news, I'm checking out new blogs (love AJ's!) and picking up new techniques and yarns. I'm shamelessly copying her gorgeous entrelac scarf, as it would be a PERFECT gift for at least two people on my list this year!

Published!

2006-10-19T16:56:00.000-05:00

Hooray, my copy of the 2007 Crochet-Pattern-a-Day Calendar has arrived! My City Girl Cap is featured from January 2-4! Thank you, Annie! It looks great! Check it out below:

Birthday Bashes and Needle Cases. . .

2006-10-17T00:52:00.000-05:00

So it doesn't quite rhyme. . . but they are related! This month is full of birthdays, namely Jen's, John's, and John's! In honor of Jen's quarter-century celebration, I whipped up my second knitting needle case ever. Admire it here!
All rolled up. . .

Beginning to open up. . .

Security flap to keep everything in place. . .

Ultimate Knitting Needle Case!

Holiday knitting continued

2006-10-09T13:52:00.001-05:00

I recently began working on Abby's christmas sweater, done in green just like her brother's. The yarn is Plymouth's Royal Bamboo, a gift from Jen. It's super smooth and has a pretty sheen, but will probably need to be blocked quite a bit before piecing everything together -- note the roly-poly edges! The pattern is from Rowan Babies, the Daydream sweater (model in pink). The book is full of lots of cute patterns, and the directions are really simple! Of course, my copy is from the library. . . but I've seriously considered buying it! So many patterns, so little time.

I've been organizing my knitting books and magazines lately, and came across last year's holiday issue of Vogue Knitting. The issue featured the winners of a scarf designing competition in support of breast cancer research, sans patterns. How frustrating! I'm trying to chart out my favorite ones, but it's a little slow-going thanks to the artsy, completely un-helpful photography. Has anyone else tried making a scarf inspired by these? If so, I can't find you on google!!!

Squares, squares, squares

2006-10-08T14:46:00.001-05:00

This year's square swap has seemed neverending. . . yet it's almost over! I finally sent out September and October this past Friday, to Paula and Robin from Crochetville. Enjoy, ladies!

In other news, I'm moving along on John's afghan (this is neighbor John, not fiance John. . . there are too many Johns in my life!) and should have it done by the holidays. John-Michael's (see what I mean? Another John!) afghan is also progressing, but a bit more slowly as it's too big to cart around with me. So many gifts to finish, so little time!

Holiday Projects!

2006-10-06T17:22:00.000-05:00

The first of many is finally finished. . . completely, totally, utterly finished! No more ends to weave in, no blocking to be done! What is it, you ask? A sweater for Nathan, Johnny's 4 year old nephew! I started working on it a little less than a month ago, right after receiving the fall issue of KnitSimple (Vogue's version of Knitting for Dummies, I guess you could call it!) I'm proud to say that I actually managed to complete a project from it before the next issue arrived -- I'm still waiting on that next issue, in fact! How often does that happen?! I think I might press my luck and try to knit a sweater for Daisy from it, too. Is that asking too much? (image is clickable!)

The Necessary Details:
Pattern: Vogue KnitSimple Fall 2006, "Boy's Sweater" Size 6
Yarn: Plymouth Encore, Green #45, 2 1/4 skeins
Needles: Sz 8 and Sz 9 16" circs, cable needle
Time: 4 weeks, working on and off

Mail Call!

2006-08-19T18:17:00.000-05:00

John and I received the most wonderful surprise in the mail today -- our first official wedding present! Sue and Julie (my two favorite Crochetvillers) got together to make us an afghan in our wedding colors. It arrived wrapped in really pretty dove paper, with a cute "Just Married" card.

Thank you so much for your thoughtfulness! We absolutely love it!

Socks, Blankets, and More - Oh My!

2006-08-12T18:22:00.000-05:00

Now that Hannah's birthday has come and gone,
I can safely post information about her fabulous present. I decided to combine my first sock project with my first cabling project (you know, for efficiency and because I'm crazy), and discovered this great, free pattern online. I'm a terrible person. . . I can't find the web address right now! Give me time, people! Anyhow, long story short, they came out great!
Pattern:Somewhere on the internet. . .
Yarn:Cascade 220 (100% wool) in Celery Heathers
Needles:Sizes 3 and 5 dpns
Time:Less than three weeks. . . Jen, do you remember?
A Gift For:Hannah, my little sister

I've also finished the second of Oni's baby blankets (shh, it's a secret!), in reverse rainbow colors. Admire it below:

What's on the plate now? My mom's holiday gift, which is ridiculously complicated, along with a whole slew of other projects. The best part about my job is that I think I might actually be able to get *most* of these gifts made in time! Luckily for me, I've also got Tempe Yarn & Fiber to keep me on track and stitching along after I've gotten home.

Updates, updates! Read all about it!

2006-07-11T18:52:00.000-05:00

The first baby blanket is officially finished, with the second well underway (see second photo!) I'm not sure I like the reverse rainbow as much as the regular one, but I'll wait until it's finished to see how it looks. These blankets have gone insanely fast, using this basic pattern with some corrections. I've also posted a listing on etsy, to see if there's any interest for them! The babies aren't due for a while, and these work up so quickly that I'd love to make a few more. . . especially considering the insanely complicated knitting projects I'm contemplating for the holidays!

I've also completed my first real bit of spinning (yikes!), and it looks a little sad. . . but I'm hopeful. Jen assures me that I'm doing great, and since she CAN spin, I'm inclined to believe her! I've signed up for a class at her shop, Tempe Yarn and Fiber, set to begin next week. Wish me luck!
Last but certainly not least. . . a teaser trailer of Hannah's birthday gift! Whatever could it be??? Knitting updates to follow!

Star Baby Blankies

2006-07-02T16:18:00.000-05:00

With my mom's afghan *almost* finished, I've begun working on Oni's baby blankets. She's having twins this fall, and doesn't want to know the sex of the babies, so I opted for rainbow star 'ghans. Here's a shot of the first, halfway finished. The second one will be done with the colors reversed, so the twins will have similar but not identical gifts. The pattern works up insanely quickly, making this a great project for work. It's been a hit with just about everyone, too! I'm hoping she'll like them just as much! In other news, I've finally begun winding up the gigantic skeins of yarn I bought last Christmas at WEBS yarn factory, thanks to Jen and her lovely winder. I'll post photos of the many, many yarn cakes as soon as they're finished.

I'm still here, I swear!

2006-06-11T13:58:00.000-05:00

I've been working, working, working, and I'm glad to say I LOVE it! I've also been crocheting, yes, it's true! And not updating! My sincerest apologies. Here is a shot of my most current work, a gift for ::cough cough:: my mom ::cough cough:: that I accidentally told her was coming. Whoops! This is the only color/pattern combo that she's ever liked straight out of the book, so here's hoping she still likes it! The pattern is from Vanna's Favorite Crocheted Gifts, the yarn is (of course) the gorgeous papaya Simply Soft that Julie sent way back when. The pattern calls for a discontinued shade of LB wool-ease, so that was a no go! Does anyone know if there's any stock to the rumor that Simply Soft pills after washing? I hope not!

In other news, John has been promoted to full manager at his theatre, and we've been seeing far too many movies. If you're looking for a good film, but NOT a good laugh, see The BreakUp -- it's wonderful, but definitely not the romantic comedy it's advertised to be! We've also upgraded our apartment with a new shelf from IKEA, soon to be filled with yarn, books, and video games. For the moment though, it's acting as a kitty lookout. Poor Ra is less than thrilled that we've added a dog to the menagerie.

Happy Birthday to Me (and Leslie!)

2006-04-25T15:07:00.000-05:00

Today I'm 22, and it's also Hannah's friend Leslie's birthday. Her gift is finished, and sitting on the kitchen table until payday (sorry Leslie!) Here's a preview to help make up for it:

I've also finished a couple more sets of magnets, for sale up in Potsdam. Cute, no?

In other news, the 'ville is closed for maintenance today and everyone seems to be going through serious withdrawal. I wish I had the time to spend on there to share in their feelings! This semester has been a completely ridiculous time sucker though, and my WIP list is seriously weak. I have far too many projects in mind, and this summer is going to be used to make up for some lost time. Besides a few baby blankets and a birthday gift for my mom, "first" up on the list is a knitted sweater for the little demon:

Yes, she really fell asleep like that! How embarassing!

Meet Daisy!

2006-04-16T20:53:00.001-05:00

Daisy is an 11 week-old Basenji, and one of my all-time favorite birthday presents! Yay for a new dog and sewing machine! Two of my favorite things :) Yarn has a new nemesis. . . and she's cute as a button.

In knitting news, there is a new yarn shop in Tempe -- Tempe Yarn and Fiber -- and they offer spinning classes at reasonable prices. Sooo excited! I picked up a couple of skeins of Cascade 220 in Celery Heather for a future Hannah gift, although just what it will be remains unknown. . . and with my track record, ungifted for at least six more months! I can't wait for summer!

Happy Chanukkah, Hannah!

2006-04-09T19:26:00.000-05:00

I've finished Hannah's Chanukkah Hoodie, just in time for my birthday. Yes, you read that correctly -- her holiday gift is just now finished, in April, in time for MY birthday. Better badly timed than never!

The pattern was only written in women's medium, so I took it down a hook size and crocheted a little tighter than normal. I'm hoping that makes it a rough x-small! Instead of the recommmended 6 balls of Bernat Softee Chunky, I used 5. And yes, it's zippered! Hallelujah!

Pattern: Family Circle Easy Crochet, Fall/Winter 2005
Yarn: Bernat Softee Chunky, 5 balls cream
Hook: Size J
Time: Dec. 8, 2005 - Apr. 8, 2006, with a flurry of activity Apr. 7-8!

So, so true. . . John-Michael, are you out there?

2006-03-29T21:29:00.000-05:00

Snickers

Nutty and gooey - you always satisfy.

What Kind of Candy Are You?

Pattern Correction

2006-03-28T18:20:00.000-05:00

Please note that there is an error on Row 78 of my Bobbling Along Tote. The correct directions are as follows:

Row 78: Ch 1, turn. Sc in first sc, **FPDC around FPDC, sc in next sc, double FPDC around double FPDC, sc in next 2 sc, popcorn in next sc, sc in next 2 sc, double FPDC around double FPDC, sc in next sc, FPDC around FPDC,** sc in next 3 sc, FPDC around FPDC, sc in next sc, double FPDC around double FPDC, sc in next sc, ch 3, sc in next sc, double FPDC around double FPDC, sc in next sc, FPDC around FPDC, sc in next 3 sc, rep ** to ** once, sc in last sc.

Times are a changin'

2006-03-22T20:39:00.000-05:00

I've decided to shake things up a little, and recently accepted a position at American Express here in Phoenix. You know what that means. . . a hiatus from art history! I'm really rethinking my choice of graduate programs, and making some money in the meantime seems like the best decision. Plus, John will be able to take some time off from working to finish up school, which will make both of us a bit more relaxed! Oh, and one added bonus -- there's a Michael's right across the road from my new office. Score!

It looks like my blog header may be changing very soon, as I'll be heading down to the DMV (here in the southwest it's the MVD. . . strangeness) to trade in my New Yorker license for a genuine Arizona Desert one. I can't believe how cheap they are -- my New York renewal put me out half a paycheck back in college, and here it's $5! Insanity!

And yes, I'm crocheting this evening and watching Law and Order (at its new time -- dum dum). Project updates to follow!

Bags and Squares Galore!

2006-03-21T20:13:00.000-05:00

Now that I'm back from spring break, I thought I'd update my blog with loads of photos -- the best kind of updating, right? My mom's aran tote is almost finished, and she chose a great Celtic button closure. I'm still working on getting the lining material, but my *new early birthday sewing machine* will certainly help with that! I've lined two bags by hand this month, and it's SO NOT FUN. Vera Bradley has a great
new pattern (Java Blue) that would match perfectly, so I figure I'll get a couple of napkins, chop them up, and work them into a groovy lining. I'm also working on a pink aran tote, this one in Lion Brand wool-ease. The heathered yarn makes the pattern disappear a little, but I think the finished effect will be great. Also finished are the Booga Bag and my March swap square, sent out to Jimmie Lu this afternoon. The tote took a few trips through the washer (luckily, the washer at home doesn't require
quarters), and I think it's achieved just the right "feltiness." The square is my usual pattern, following instructions written by a fellow Crochetviller. This time I steamed it
to the precise measurements, and I really like the results. I hope she will too! Last but not least,I've begun an album for my 63 More Menagerie afghan. In three months, I've completed two whole squares. So many projects, so little time!

Project Update and New Blog Button!

2006-03-02T19:18:00.000-05:00

Major thanks to Mary Anne at Crochetville for her awesome talent and creative impulse to make me a new blog button! How super cute is that?!

Melissa's bag is coming right along, but I did hit one small bump in the road. . . my hook literally snapped in half last night while finishing a round! See? I'm hoping to get out sometime tomorrow to buy a replacement, but that's going to depend on whether Midas can get my car window working again!

The Booga Bag is also progressing along. I'm really enjoying knitting in the round (again!!!), and can't imagine purling anymore! It should be finished over the weekend, and I'll felt it sometime during spring break.

Finally. . . ANOTHER aran tote! This one is for my mom, and I'm excited to be using Paton's Merino Wool instead of Caron acrylic this time around. It's just slightly thinner, but a whole lot softer on the hands! The color is an absolutely gorgeous peacock blue, and I'm trying to resist the temptation to felt it into a teenie-tiny Barbie bag!

Just for fun. . . a photo of our new Mexican-themed porch!

Woo-hoo! "'Round the 'Ville" has launched!

2006-03-01T22:31:00.000-05:00

My Bobbling Along tote bag is featured as pattern of the month! I knew it had been accepted, but had no idea that it would be featured! The newsletter looks beautiful, and I'd like to thank the ladies who worked so hard to get it out today. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Follow this link to get to my pattern!

Frogging, Knitting, and a Missing Square

2006-02-18T21:30:00.000-05:00

Well, Melissa's tote is coming along. . . slowly. See how my sidebar says 10%? See it? Well, that was yesterday! I've frogged it in an effort to make a tighter base, as cotton yarn often stretches a bit and I was worried that even a liner wouldn't fix the problem. So, here we go again! The yarn is a really gorgeous dove gray/olivey color, and I'm using cream for the secret design. Sorry, but no pictures until Melissa's received it! It's Jo Sharp's Soho Summer in Crete and Calico, from Herrschners. I'm also working on the Booga Bag from Julie Anderson, in luscious Noro Kuryeon (color 95, just like the pattern. . . there's a first!). I got three skeins of it from mom and dad for the holidays, and am finally getting around to working on it. See the pretty print in the background? That's my new Vera Bradley bag, courtesy of my lovely sister Hannah, and it's the perfect size for toting around small projects! Thanks, Hank! Now, with all this happy news there's some sad -- Valerie's February square is apparently MIA. That's the first and LAST time that I send anything without delivery confirmation, or at the very least a little insurance! I'm really bummed, because I'd included a few extras and some candy for her kids. Hopefully it'll show up soon, but I'm going to work up a replacement square to ship out if it's not there by Tuesday (the last day to send for this month's swap!)

And the surprise. . . was a scarf! The pattern is from Vogue On the Go! Crocheted Scarves.

Sometimes it's good to be a poor grad student. . .

2006-02-17T18:51:00.000-05:00

. . . because you meet other grad students who are moving and selling really great stuff for super cheap! John and I were lucky enough to pick up a cordless Craftsman drill (complete with extra battery and an extra bit set!) for all of $20 last weekend from a nice guy out in Phoenix.

Why is this so great, you ask? Because I can make zillions and zillions of earrings now!

Speaking (ahem. . . writing) of earrings, Hannah and I have already sold four pairs! Etsy seems to be working out well, assuming their server remains functional and my store site isn't deleted (again). Two of my fave pairs are pictured below!

In other news, part of my Herrschner's order finally arrived this week, so Melissa's bag is officially under way. It's definitely smaller than the last one, but will have a nice long strap and such a cool design that I don't think she'll mind toooo much. Just gotta find time to work on it!!!

Tote 2: Revenge of the Aran!

2006-02-10T14:02:00.000-05:00

It's finished! Yay!!! This tote is a good bit smaller than my last one, measuring approx. 11" x 4" x 13" tall, excluding the strap. I just need to line it, and then off to Hannah it goes!

The pattern is written (terribly exciting, I know), and is in the last stages of editing. I hope to submit it to the Crochetville "Round the Ville" newsletter by Monday. . . so look for it there, and eventually on my blog!

Thank you again for all the encouragement and support throughout the creation of this tote, and thanks for your patience while I finish the pattern!

And an announcement. . .
Check out my very own Etsy store!

New Project. . .

2006-02-07T15:54:00.000-05:00

I've joined the "63 More" CAL, but this time with a twist. . . Julie is collecting one square from everyone, along with a postcard, and assembling an afghan and postcard album to be raffled off sometime this fall in support of Crochetville. Here's my contribution, Square #26:

I've also selected my yarn for the CAL. . . Simply Soft Brites in Berry Blue, which is actually a really lovely french blue/periwinkle color. This project is meant to be worked on a little bit each day, on my bus rides, etc., as my other afghans have become unwieldy!!!

February Square Swap!

2006-02-05T16:04:00.000-05:00

My February square, made by Robin, arrived yesterday! Here it is, in all its lavendar glory:

She used the "Racing Stripes" 12" pattern from Crochet Pattern Central, and SS yarn! Robin also had impeccable timing, as I had just finished my February swap square before going to get the mail. This square (see below) will be heading out to Valerie in TN tomorrow:

Mystery Project!!!

2006-02-04T15:58:00.000-05:00

Hannah's tote is progressing along, as is the written pattern! I hope to have it finished up by next weekend, and plan to have at least three testers (two have volunteered already! I love Crochetville!) You can see the newest photos below. . . along with a mystery project I finished yesterday to tuck into the tote before I ship it off!

Don't you just love the button?! Here's the back and front flap, with an opening for the button. Each one of the diamond repeats takes 36 yards of yarn!!!

Here it is. . . the mystery project!!! Can you guess what it is? C'mon. . . try!

City Girl Cap Pattern

2006-01-31T20:21:00.000-05:00

I finished the design for this hat a while back, and figured it was high time to post it! This pattern will appear in the 2007 Crochet Pattern a Day Calendar.

Many thanks to my testers, and to Kathy, who encouraged me to submit the City Girl Cap for publication!

City Girl Cap
Designed by Celeste Young

Materials: 3oz/85g (1 skein) Lion Brand Wool-Ease in Seaspray, J-10 (6mm) hook

Gauge: 15 sts, 10 rows = 4” in hdc

Brim (make 2):
Row 1: Ch 31, turn. Sc in second ch from hook and in each ch across (30 sc).

Row 2: Ch 2, turn (counts as first hdc in this row only). Skipping first sc, hdc in each sc across and in beg ch 1 (30 hdc).

Row 3: Ch 2, turn. Skipping first hdc, sc decrease over next two hdc. Hdc in next 25 hdc, sc decrease over next st and second ch of beg ch 2.

Row 4: Ch 2, turn. Skipping first hdc, sc decrease over next two hdc. Hdc in next 23 hdc, sc decrease over next st and second ch of beg ch 2.

Row 5: Ch 2, turn. Skipping first hdc, sc decrease over next two hdc. Hdc in next 21 hdc, sc decrease over next st and second ch of beg ch 2.

Row 6: Ch 2, turn. Skipping first hdc, sc decrease over next two hdc. Hdc in next 19 hdc, sc decrease over next st and second ch of beg ch 2.

Row 7: Ch 2, turn. Skipping first hdc, sc decrease over next two hdc. Hdc in next 17 hdc, sc decrease over next st and second ch of beg ch 2.

Row 8: Ch 2, turn. Skipping first hdc, sc decrease over next two hdc. Hdc in next 15 hdc, sc decrease over next st and second ch of beg ch 2. Fasten off.

Crown:
Ch 4. Join with sl st in first ch to form ring.

Rnd 1: Ch 3 (counts as first dc), 23 dc in ring (24 dc). Join with sl st to top of beg ch 3.

Rnd 2: Ch 3(counts as last BPDC now and throughout), FPDC in next dc, (2 BPDC in next dc, FPDC in next DC) around, BPDC around beg ch 3. Join with sl st to top of beg ch 3 (12 FPDC, 24 BPDC made).

Rnd 3: Ch 3, (2 FPDC around first FPDC, BPDC around each of next two BPDC) around. Join with sl st to top of beg ch 3.

Rnd 4: Ch 3, (FPDC around each of next two FPDC, 2 BPDC around next BPDC, BPDC around next BPDC) around. Join with sl st to top of beg ch 3.

Rnd 5: Ch 3, (FPDC around each of next two FPDC, BPDC around next three BPDC) around. Join with sl st to top of beg ch 3.

Rnd 6: Ch 3, (FPDC around each of next two FPDC, 2 BPDC around next BPDC, BPDC around each of next two BPDC) around. Join with sl st to top of beg ch 3.

Rnd 7: Ch 3, (FPDC around each of next two FPDC, BPDC around each of next four BPDC) around. Join with sl st to top of beg ch 3.

Rnds 8-16: Rep rnd 7.

Rnd 17: Ch 1, sc in same st as joining. Sc in each dc around, join with sl st to first sc (72 sc).

Rnd 18: Rep rnd 17.

Rnd 19: Ch 1, sc in same st as joining and in next 20 sc. Place visor pieces together with WS facing and edges evenly held together (pin if needed) against front of hat. Insert hook into first bottom loops of each visor piece, then into next sc from rnd 18. YO and draw a loop up and through these three layers, yo and draw through two loops on hook (sc). Sc in same way across remaining 29 sc of bottom of visor to connect it to cap (30 sc). Sc in next 21 sts around; join with sl st in beg sc.

Rnd 20: Ch 1, sc in same st as joining and next 20 sc. 10 sc along edge of visor to corner, 17 sc across 17 sts of front of brim, 10 sc along other edge of visor. Sc in remaining 21 sc around. Join with sl st in beg sc, fasten off.

Better photos!

2006-01-26T18:06:00.000-05:00

Well, today has been a whirlwind of activity! School from 7:30-2:00, and then home for hours on the phone and. . . new photos! Here's an updated photograph of Hannah's new aran tote:

The space will have a button in it (eventually!), while the flap will have a space in the matching location. Get it?

Tagged by Sue. . . Three posts in one day!!!

2006-01-24T23:30:00.000-05:00

Answer the four questions below and then name four taggees.

Four jobs you have held:
1. Teaching Assistant
2. Professional Photographer's Assistant
3. Martini Waitress
4. Hallmark Gift Specialist :)

Four places you have lived:
1. Chicago, IL
2. Syracuse, NY
3. Schenectady, NY
4. Tempe, AZ

Four vacations you have taken:
1. Montreal
2. Paris
3. London
4. Sanibel Island, FL

Four vehicles you have owned:
1. '95 Plymouth Neon Sport
2. '94 Toyota Camry V6 LE
3. I'm only 21! What more do you want!?
4. See above.

Four bloggers you want to tag: (G'on, don't be shy!)
1. Tandi
2. Aunt Linda
3. Drew, the Crochet Dude!
4. Maria

Just for you, Mom!

2006-01-24T23:20:00.000-05:00

You will sink in a mire. You like to think you're
normal, but deep down you really just want to
strip off your clothes and roll around in
chicken fat.

What horrible Edward Gorey Death will you die?
brought to you by

Aran the pattern, not the color!

2006-01-24T22:56:00.000-05:00

Hannah's tote is progressing quickly, as is the pattern! Some of you may notice that the pattern is slightly different than the cream version, because I've altered the stitch count (vertically and horizontally) to differentiate it from the original pattern. I'm also using a smaller hook (H, not I. . . huge difference, LOL), leading to a much smaller, more manageable tote. Now I just need to choose a button for the space in diamond row 4!

This photo is terribly dark, I know, and I promise that the next one will be better. . . but believe me, the flash was worse! Besides, weren't you dying to see my progress?

Crochet away the day!

2006-01-22T19:22:00.000-05:00

Okay, not really. I've been very good this weekend, and finished all the required reading for Monday's classes. Aren't you proud? I am! Some of it was boring! Moving on. . .

I'm through Row 40 of my Lace and Bobbles afghan, which I'm fast growing fond of. John likes it too, and has requested a second version in green. ::adds to giant mental list of future crochet projects:: Here are two up-to-the-minute shots of it, one with flash on, the other off. The colors are deep, deep purple, lighter purple, and cream, and neither photo is right on. Ignore the curtains and carpet, please!

These photos almost cost me my life, as I balanced precariously on the coffee table while desperately trying to fit the ruler in for reference! Enjoy them! No, really, you HAVE TO!

I've also begun working on Hannah's super-cool aran tote, in Caron's Pounder Yarn in Espresso. Here's a before shot:

It'll look a lot like Melissa's tote, but in smaller, textbook-sized form. Melissa's was a bit of a monster, designed to be large enough to carry books along with the occassional skein of yarn (or ten. . . I'm not joking.) I'm also writing the pattern out as I go, due to multiple requests and demands.

Finally, in response to my good blogging friend Sue, here is a photo of where my blogging magic happens, along with most of my crocheting, reading, and desperate writing "magic":

Bad Kitty!

2006-01-22T00:52:00.000-05:00

Minerva is in love with all things crochet, and the Lace and Bobbles afghan is no exception! Here she is, warming it up for me:

Some of you may remember this post. . . it looks like a trend is developing!

G'nite, all!

Lacing and Bobbling along. . .

2006-01-21T01:35:00.000-05:00

and quickly, too! This is it, through Row 30 (image is clickable):

Minerva seems to approve! I was barely able to shoo her off long enough to take this photo! This weekend will probably slow me down a bit though, as I have tons of reading to wade through. This semester's classes are looking promising, as is my research assistantship. Lots and lots of work, but interesting work! Happy weekend, everyone!

New Afghan!

2006-01-20T01:18:00.000-05:00

First, this is for Cristin -- thank you for the lovely compliments! John-Michael's afghan is the December afghan from Birthstone Afghans by Carole Prior. I have a few links to where to buy it, so let me know your email address on Crochetville -- I'm Celestial Seasonings!

I've joined the Lace and Bobbles CAL in an effort to produce something pretty and in one piece for my Great Aunt Max. Unless of course I can't part with it after finishing! In just half an hour, I've managed to get through row 11:

Rosie's Afghan

2006-01-16T22:47:00.000-05:00

. . . is finished! I began this just a week before Christmas, hopeful that I'd be able to finish in time (crazy, I know!), and ALMOST made it! The squares were finished in three days, as were the flowers, but the leaves took much longer than expected. Family dinners and all got in the way, and before I knew it, I was packing this afghan up to take back to Arizona! Now that it's finished, it'll be in the mail back to New York tomorrow

Pattern: Vanna's Favorite Crocheted Gifts, "Bed of Roses"
Materials: 12 skeins LB Wool-ease in Fisherman
2 skeins LB Wool-ease in Pink Heather
1 skein LB Wool-ease in Dk. Pink Heather
1 skein LB Wool-ease in Dk. Green Heather
Hook: Sz. I-9
Alterations: Changed edging to that from the "63 Squares" pamphlet, and altered the placement of several leaves to be more symmetrical

I've also finished my January swap square, which will be going out tomorrow!

Let the swapping begin!

2006-01-13T20:07:00.000-05:00

In an effort to control my crochet addiction, I joined the 2006 Square-a-Month swap over at C'ville. Theoretically, I'll have a single square to work on each month rather than an entire afghan, which is what happened last semester! Yes, really, I made four afghans last semester. FOUR. It normally takes me 3-4 months to make ONE. That was bad, bad, bad of me!

I've already received my January square from Fiona, and here's a shot of it:

Sorry 'bout the lousy lighting, but I just had to share tonight! Thanks so much, Fiona!

Project Update

2006-01-12T15:50:00.000-05:00

Tina's comfortghan is finished, as you can see by these photos! I edged the center square in pink in honor of breast cancer survivors, and edged the afghan using the pattern from the 63 Squares pamphlet (my new favorite!)

I pulled out the brightest squares and assembled them into a bag for the afghan, which I still need to photograph (alright, so I haven't quite finished the edging!) All that's left is to retag the squares and ship! Thank you to everyone who contributed, and keep an eye on your mailboxes next week!

I've also begun working away at John-Michael's afghan. The pattern is simple to remember but looks complex -- my favorite kind! It'll be about 5'x6' when finished:

Back!

2006-01-12T01:15:00.000-05:00

A few weeks and a few family dinners later, I'm back in Arizona and blogging away. Yesterday John, James, and I drove up to Sedona. . . note the can of Pringles and dollar-store sunglasses. . . it must be a road trip!

The weather was beautiful, the scenery was gorgeous, and the speed limit was a lovely 75! The desert is SO different from New York! It was also an excellent time to test out the new digital camera, which seems to have passed the test!

Take a look at our gorgeous (unedited, I swear!) shots:

Red rocks abound! We even ran into a rabbit. . . can you see him?

Tomorrow. . . CROCHET!

Chuggin' Along. . .

2005-11-26T19:33:00.000-05:00

I've finished 18 of my 35 Squares. . . too bad I can't go to grad school for crochet! I'm done for the evening though, as I promised myself I'd type out at least eight pages on my papers tonight. There's no good t.v. on, and my fingers are tired, so no excuses!!! I do think I'll sign up for the master crochet program in January though. . . it would be nice if I were certified to teach! But which one to choose. . . the CGOA Master's Program, or CYCA Certification?

In other news, Melissa has received her tote! I can finally post a photo of it, and you can see comments here.

It took a little over eight ounces of Caron acrylic in cream (ultra washable!), and I used an I hook. It's adapted from my aran afghan pattern, but the form and strap are my own design. The base is reinforced with "ultra stiff" plastic canvas (felt pretty regular to me!) tucked into a double-thick crocheted strip. Overall, I'm happy with how it turned out -- I've never made a tote before!

First a guru. . . now a princess!

2005-11-23T02:30:00.000-05:00

The Traditional Princess
You are generous, graceful, and practical with both
feet planted firmly on the ground. You tend to
be a little on the old-fashioned side. You
value home, hearth, and family life and love to
be of service to others.
Role Models: Snow White, Maid Marian
You are most likely to: Discover a hidden talent
for spinning straw into gold.

What Kind of Princess are You? - Beautiful Artwork (Original Music is BACK!!!)
brought to you by

Progress Update!

2005-11-23T01:50:00.000-05:00

I finally picked up some more microspun this week, and finished my pineap ple shawl. It's going to go to my advisor (yes, I changed my mind again!), who's been super supportive and helpful this semester. I can't believe that it's already the end of November, and that I'm almost finished with my first semester of grad school! It's been very stressful, but I've also been lucky enough to make several great friends, not to mention my luck in finding Crochetville! I've also finished the tote for my swap partner, Melissa, and will be getting it in the mail ASAP. I probably shouldn't post the pics just yet, but you can find a good shot here, and a closeup here. Sorry, I can't resist showing it off a little! The pattern is (obviously!) inspired by my aran afgh an, but the form, strap, and finishing are all my own design.
My seraphina shawl is progressing along, but it's going to the back burner for a while so I can finish my extensive list of holiday gifts! My sidebar is getting out of control! I'm working it up in KnitPicks lace yarn (the name escapes me, but the colorway is Autumn), using a G hook. I need to start working with bulkier, faster yarns! I'm also finishing a dress for Abby, which (thankfully!) is close to completion. The front and back pieces are finished, so all I have to do is sew the sides together and finish the neck and arm bands.
In other news, my papers are progressing along. . . oh, and I saw the new Harry Potter! I agree with Sue, the special effects were great. I thought the editing was a little choppy though, and overall I prefer the third movie.

What kind of knitter are you?

2005-11-17T23:45:00.000-05:00

Taking a "break" from delving through sources. . . kill me now!

You appear to be a Knitting Guru. You love knitting
and do it all the time. While finishing a piece
is the plan, you still love the process, and
can't imagine a day going by without giving
some time to your yarn. Packing for vacation
involves leaving ample space for the stash and
supplies. It can be hard to tell where the yarn
ends and you begin.http://marniemaclean.com/

What Kind of Knitter Are You?
brought to you by

Not-so-wintery Wonderland!

2005-11-17T00:18:00.000-05:00

It's a freezing 80 here in Tempe today. . . and I wore a hoodie this morning! My mother would be so disappointed if she knew! Seriously though, John and I are convinced that our bodies are reprogramming themselves to this heat, and that we're going to suffer bigtime when we go home for the holidays!

In the spirit of the snow we're lacking, I crocheted a few snowflakes and ::gasp:: successfully stiffened them! It was surprisingly easy -- I mixed one part water with one part Elmer's glue, and presto! After lots of pinning, wax paper, and about 12 hours, my snowflakes are B-E-A-utiful! I'm thinking of working up a few more in my spare time (har har) to add to Christmas presents.

In other crafty news, I've run out of yarn on my pineapple shawl on the *last* row, and won't be able to get out for a while to get more -- funds are ultra low at the moment while we plan for gifts and things! Melissa's tote is almost finished, but I'm having trouble choosing a button. The one I picked up a few days ago isn't quite right, so I'm going out to return it this weekend sometime. I think I'll make John come along with me, because he has a surprisingly good eye for such things! I'm infecting him with my craftiness!

Oh, and I've begun work on a seraphina shawl for *someone*, so my 35 Squares are definitely going to be on hold for a bit! Thankfully, classes are over by December 5, so I'll have 12 days of uninterrupted crafting bliss until I head home to NY!

Reading, Writing, (some) Crafting

2005-11-13T13:17:00.000-05:00

Today I'm being good, and trying something new. . . using crochet as a reward for schoolwork well done! I need to get my rear in gear on a few papers coming due very soon, and for once in my life, I'd like to NOT be up all night before they're due, stressing and cursing and drinking far too much coffee. Instead, I'm using my yarn as a motivational tool. Wish me luck!

I have loads of WIPs, as you can see, and even more WIMs. The best part about having to fly for six hours to get home to NY is that I'll have plenty of crafting time on the plane, especially because le fiance will be sleeping the entire way. I was not blessed with the ability to sleep on either planes, trains, or automobiles, I suspect because he was blessed with enough ability for both of us! I need to get a few gifts finished for my favorite Arizonians soon, though, and I really need to finish Melissa's tote. I found the yarn I needed yesterday, so today I can finish the strap and get everything sewn together. I don't have my sewing machine here with me, so it'll stay unlined -- I had a hard enough time choosing a button anyhow, so I can't imagine how long it would take to select lining fabric! Hope that works for you, Melissa -- I'm sending along a few goodies to make up for it, don't you worry!

Oh, and did I mention that Drew (The Crochet Dude!!!) has commentated on my blog?! I've said it before, but I'll say it again -- you're awesome, Drew, and I love your Monet afghan!

Crafty Update. . .

2005-11-11T00:17:00.000-05:00

This has been a very busy week! My 35 Squares are currently on the back burner while I work on a few other projects, namely Abby's Post-Christening Gown and a shawl for the nice lady I do laundry with, Angel. Abby's gown is progressing slooooowly, mainly because I'm knitting it with toothpicks (okay, okay. . . size 3 needles. A little bigger than toothpicks!) and using sport weight yarn. Argh! It's gorgeous though, and it's a Debbie Bliss pattern -- so one day maybe I'll get it back from my SIL for my own daughter!

Angel's shawl is an adaptation and enlargement of a doily pattern, a popular trick at Crochetville. I'm using this pattern, and working it up in a beautiful periwinkle shade of LB's microspun. It feels like heaven, and I really don't want to pass it up!!! I'll probably make a twin for myself over Christmas!

I'm also in the home stretch of Melissa's tote, which needs to get in the mail by the 20th! I ran out of yarn on the handle/sides, so I'll be going out tomorrow to stock up. I go through Caron 1-lb in cream so fast, it's a wonder the company can keep up with me!

I don't feel too bad about my 35 Squares though, because I have 8 in the bag already. I'm shifting gears a little, and making it for my Grandfather now instead of my Dad. My Dad will get mittens. . . much more practical for his daily commute to Vermont, and I owe G'pa an afghan anyhow!

Something knitted. . .

2005-11-07T17:07:00.000-05:00

My best friend Jess is turning 21 this month (finally, lol!), and I knitted this scarf for her over the last couple of weeks. I used Lionbrand Cotton-Ease in Strawberry Cream, and it took just over 1 skein to make it 5' long. I followed the pattern for the Liesel Scarf, by Mary Joy Gumayagay. This will be Jessica's second annual birthday scarf, and the last one was pink as well. I don't know why, but I always seem to choose pink for her! She hasn't complained yet, so here's hoping :) Happy Early Birthday, Jess! I hope you're not reading this!

63 Squares FINALLY Finished!

2005-11-06T21:07:00.000-05:00

I put my 63 Squares together on Friday afternoon, and finally found the time (and the nice neighbor!!!) to take a few photos. Unfortunately, Minerva is a huge fan and wouldn't let me get the camera in for more than a few seconds!

The edging went together especially well, and was so simple! I plan to use it on future 'ghans, as it looks far more complicated than it actually is. Thanks so much to Julie and Sue for helping me get through this massive project! I couldn't have done it without you, ladies! Sue, I can't wait to see how yours comes together :) Here's a larger, clearer image of it. Don't mind the wrinkled appearance. . . cats raced across it only moments before! Can you say washing machine?!

Aran Afghan Photos!

2005-11-02T01:20:00.000-05:00

I finished this afghan at the end of September, and sent it off to my sister in NY before photographing it. She sent me two beautiful pictures of it today!

The pattern is from Blue Ribbon Afghans, which has several great patterns and a few blech ones (pretty standard)! I made it using Caron One Pound yarn in Cream, and it took almost eight skeins. It covers a full bed nicely. The pattern goes quickly, and is very easy to memorize. Always a plus! I highly recommend it :)

WOOT! Putting it all together!

2005-10-31T00:25:00.000-05:00

My squares are done, most are edged, and I've officially crocheted the first five rows (of nine total) together! That's more than halfway! I'm hoping to have my 63 Squares good and done by Saturday, so I can really get going on Jessie's birthday scarf and Abby's dress, which needs to be done be Dec. 17. Her mom (future SIL) wants her to wear it at the post-christening bash, which will be so much fun :)

What sucks the most right now? Knowing that I'll be IN CLASS for most of Halloween! Totally unfair! And when class is over, I have HOMEWORK to do! Nooooooo! (sorry, this is bitch and moan day. Will regret in the AM. . . please disregard.)

Weekend! Finally!

2005-10-29T00:56:00.000-05:00

So my lecture went fine, I guess. . . we're all our own harshest critics, but I know I should have slowed down a bit in the beginning. My prof seems to think it went really well, and that's all that matters! Right? Right?

Anyhoo, better news. . . I have two and a half squares to go before I can begin to assemble my sampler afghan. I can't wait to be done with it, so I can start on the next one, a much more manageable 35 squares. Should be able to knock that out in a few weeks ;-) But seriously, I can't believe that November starts on Tuesday. That's just wrong. . . so much writing, so little time. Hopefully I can have at least 20 pages of my major paper done by Thanksgiving, so I can focus on my other work. Oh, and my TAship. And my research. And my knitting. And crocheting. Eek!

Crochet away the day. . . and work all night!

2005-10-26T00:49:00.000-05:00

I'm currently taking a break from editing exam questions for next week's test in art history 102. . . I'm also trying to distract myself from worrying about the lecture I'm giving on Thursday (on African art! Should be good!) I've finally got a few pics of the hat I designed, and of the square I made for Aunt Tina's comfortghan. Check them out:

Chuggin' along. . .

2005-10-25T01:15:00.000-05:00

Today was. . . an 8. Not spectacular, but pretty nice overall. The weather has cooled a bit, a maintenance guy came to fix our AC and play with the kitties, and five more squares for Aunt Tina's comfortghan arrived. I can't wait to get them all together, so I can share photos of how beautiful they are! I'm really amazed at how much work people have put into them. So far, I've contributed four squares to various 'ghans, and I feel really good about the reciprocity. Crochetville is a wonderful place!

I'm currently working on square 50. . .yes, FIFTY, of my 63 Square Monstrosity (new name. . . I like it). I've updated my photos, and here are a choice few:

So, call me crazy, but I'm thinking that I won't keep this one after all. I know, I know, I NEVER keep anything for myself, but. . . these colors match my best friend's mom's living room perfectly! And she's the nicest lady on the planet! I will do myself a favor though, and save it to give to her at Christmas. I have a bad habit of gifting people anytime, all the time. . . and I need to work on it, for the sake of my bank account!

Merrily we crochet along. . .

2005-10-23T19:45:00.000-05:00

I finished another eight squares over the weekend (45 down, 18 to go!), and *gasp* broke my promise to not work on anything else by recreating my hat pattern! It's justified though, I swear! I have to submit photos of it! Really!

Oh, and can I just say that I love Photoshop? I was working on scanning several images for a presentation I have next week, and took a short break to play around with a pic of John (le fiance). . . et voila!

Very Warhol, no?

RAOK! What a great day!

2005-10-20T22:37:00.000-05:00

I came home tonight to the nicest little surprise -- a little wooden kitty and two beautiful handmade stitch markers!

Thank you, Fairy in Texas!

In other news, the squares for my Aunt Tina's comfortghan are arriving a few at a time, and slowly building into a pile! I have eight so far, with nineteen more expected! The outpouring of support from Crochetville has been really wonderful. Thank you, ladies!

And finally. . . the most exciting. . . a hat I designed was accepted to the 2007 Crochet Pattern a Day calendar! It'll be my first published design ever! Too bad I already sent my prototype to Hannah. . . I guess I'll be busy recreating it this weekend!

Afghans Galore

2005-10-12T22:12:00.000-05:00

This is the semester of afghans! My 63 Squares are progressing right along, and I just finished #36. I've also begun a 12" square for a separate project - a comfortghan for my Aunt Tina, who's just been diagnosed with breast cancer. I'm going out this weekend to pick up oodles of yarn in yummy colors to crochet her a collection of caps. We don't know yet how extensive the cancer is, but we're very hopeful that it's still isolated.

If you'd like to contribute a square, let me know!

Healthier and Happier, but still Mysterious!

2005-10-07T23:51:00.000-05:00

John is up and on his feet today, and may actually be able to get some sleep tonight! He's still in some pain, but at least he's able to function. Unfortunately, we're still not sure what's causing his headaches, and still need to get in to see the neurologist. Hopefully we'll have an answer soon!

And more good news. . . I've finished another five squares of my 63 square 'ghan, bringing my total to 26! I can't wait to finish this one, and move on to the next -- the squares look even prettier than those in this pattern! Pictures will follow soon!

Baby Afghan

2005-10-05T18:02:00.000-05:00

The pattern is from Leisure Arts pamphlet #3015, "Absolutely Gorgeous Baby Afhans Book 4." I modified the colors using Lionbrand Babysoft in bluebell and white. It was a little finer than the "sportweight" it *claimed* to be, which made gauging the blanket a huge pain. It also turned out scratchier than the original skein felt, although it softened up a bit after I used Woolite. I wouldn't recommend using it!

and a close-up:

Anyhow, on to the good stuff: I finished three more squares of my 63 Square 'Ghan, which will soon be followed up by a second 63 Squares!

Loooong Day!

2005-10-05T01:00:00.000-05:00

Well, good news first: the baby afghan I was working on is finished, so now I can return my attention to my 63 squares -- I mean, my art historical research! Just kidding, really, I'm getting much better at balancing the two.

Now for the bad news. . . crocheting is back on track, but life is on hold while I care for John for the next few days. He's been having headaches, and while the doctors have ruled out an aneurysm (they were insistant that he take an ambulance to the hospital!), they have no idea what's wrong. Tomorrow morning we're heading out to see a neurologist, so hopefully I'll know more in the next 24 hours. In the meantime, I'm crocheting my heart out to keep from worrying.

Finally! Pics of the Snowfire Afghan!

2005-10-03T00:23:00.000-05:00

I finished this blanket just before moving out to Arizona, for my future MIL to use on her new boat. It took over a year, mainly because I was so sidetracked with other projects! Once I put my mind to it, I was able to finish the last forty squares in only a couple of weeks.

Simba, enjoying the fruits of my labor!

1 down, 2 to go. . .

2005-09-30T19:41:00.000-05:00

So I shipped Hannah's afghan out late Wednesday afternoon, and ::gasp:: it made it to New York by noon today! No wonder the USPS is broke; priority mail was only ONE DOLLAR more than 8-day! Insanity! She's promised to send me photos of herself wrapped up in it, along with a few detail shots. Posts will follow shortly! My mother also loved it, calling it "french vanilla ice cream colored -- yummy!" Leave it to an art teacher who spends her days with 5-10 year olds to liken my crocheting to dessert :)

My 63 Square 'ghan is progressing steadily along, but may be sidelined for a few days while I whip up a baby blanket for my mom to give at an upcoming shower. She called this afternoon "just to ask" how quickly I thought I could crochet one. . . and before I knew what was happening, the Aztec books were on the floor and my car was maneuvering itself over to Michaels!

Two More Squares, so little Aztec. . .

2005-09-25T15:35:00.000-05:00

Between chapters, I've been crocheting up a storm. I can't help it. . . I'm just so bored! The Crochetvillers have been great, and I'm just so psyched to get this afghan together.

I'm already planning to make a second one for my grandfather, to decorate the room he'll be living in when he moves into my parents' home this coming spring. I've been promising him an afghan for a while, and he seems to really like the sampler square ones, like the one I'm making now. It's a lot like the ones his grandmother Pearl used to make. . . incidentally, I'm a lot like her!
Check it out: Square 34, finished 9/24 at 10 pm, and Square 40, finished at 10:30

63 Square Afghan Crochet Along!

2005-09-24T19:57:00.000-05:00

With Hannah's afghan finished, I need a new project to keep me occupied between chapters! I've finished my first square, #21: Flower Square. Check it out!

. . . update. . . rather than do work, I've finished #55! Only 61 more to go!

Crochetville Purse Swap!

2005-09-18T17:27:00.000-05:00

Just signed up for the purse swap on Crochetville. I hope I get someone who wants a purse and not a tote, because I have a teriffic pattern I've been dying to try! Then again, I could make a pretty slammin' tote, too. . . decisions, decisions! Need to get back to my research now.

New Project. . .

2005-09-16T01:58:00.000-05:00

Just finished up some readings on SW archaeology I was getting behind on. Have decided to begin a new side project, taking a break from the massive afghan I'm currently crocheting for my sister (which is long overdue, in her approximation). Anyhow, the project is Toni Maddox's Dayflower Lace Scarf.

Plans to post pics soon. . . stay tuned!

Sleepless nights. . .

2005-09-14T03:27:00.000-05:00

Spent too many hours reading and thinking today, and am unable to sleep. Alas, my first official post is not about knitting or crocheting, but about my inability to do either today! Perhaps tomorrow will be more productive, and perhaps I will find the time to post pictures of my current project.