Knit 'n' Purl Zen

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2005-10-05T13:35:00.000-05:00

Come on over to my new blog...here's the direct link:

I Have a New Home!

2005-10-02T21:25:00.000-05:00

I received an invite to join the blogger world of Wordpress.com. Wordpress has nifty features such as searching, categories and pages. It'll make it that much easier to keep track of my knitting escapades and hopefully will make it easier for my readers to find the information they are looking for.

Come visit me at my new home and please update your links!

I Have One Arm & Please Excuse the Curls...

2005-09-28T14:17:00.000-05:00

One arm down on my White Buffalo unspun Jacket and onto the next one! I was toying with how to seam this super chunky knit and thankfully, the discussion came up on Knitter's Review...check it out here. Some really great suggestions! I wonder how I'm going to block these pieces...water, steam, or ?? Do you have any suggestions?

Baby Jacket - Another in the Works...

2005-09-26T12:32:00.000-05:00

I have the Homespun, the trim in Bernat Satin and the buttons...now I just need to get out my crochet hook and get going! I so liked the Baby, It's Cold Outside pattern that I figure I'll make a couple more! So much fun picking out buttons too...I picked these blue ones without the yarn *hoping* they would match okay...was I ever pleased when they did!

White Buffalo Jacket - Right Front Done!

2005-09-23T16:57:00.000-05:00

Just a movin' along on this knit...and onto the sleeves we go! So far, just over 2 cakes used...which means not a lot of ends to weave in...yippee! Wow, the digital camera sure does come up with a different blue colour depending on how much light is available. The blue is very close to a faded blue jeans colour.

Face Lift

2005-09-22T10:03:00.000-05:00

I decided it was time to change some colours and a bit of the look of my blog. Since there's not a lot of options with Blogger and templates, I chose one and tweaked it slightly to get what I wanted. It seems "fresher" to me and I'll stick with the white for awhile...hope you like it!

White Buffalo Jacket - Left Front Done!

2005-09-21T11:23:00.000-05:00

White Buffalo Left Front,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

What fun chunky knits are! It's going to be a reverse stockinette stitch jacket and I hope to have it finished fairly quickly! So far I've used 1.5 cakes to do the back and the front left. The yarn spit splices really easily too...woohoo...not many ends to weave in! Onto the right front now...

Rowan Cork - Stash Acquisition!

2005-09-21T08:36:00.000-05:00

Rowan Cork,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I sure do love Rowan yarns...something about them just makes you want to knit!! This lovely yarn I got off EBay...book was included with the yarn too and super fast shipping...took less than a week to get to me from the UK! There are some really lovely designs in the pattern book too...can't wait to decide what to do!

White Buffalo Unspun Jacket - Back Done!

2005-09-20T10:53:00.000-05:00

White Buffalo Jacket,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I'm finished with the back of my jacket using White Buffalo Unspun. Once I got used to twisting the yarn as I was knitting, it went quite smoothly and I only tore a strand twice. No problem though...it can be easily spit spliced back together! You can see the pattern here.

Tagged!

2005-09-19T18:43:00.000-05:00

I was tagged by Kim Knits and now I have to tag 5 more people...oh joy...LOL Here are the rules:

1. Go into your archive.
2. Find your 23rd post (or closest to).
3. Find the fifth sentence (or closest to).
4. Post the text of the sentence in your blog along with these instructions.
5. Tag five people to do the same.

My 23rd post was in December, 2004 and the fifth sentence reads:

These knitting processes are reminiscent of other activities in life...the exhiliration of being creative and the exhiliration of completion...without each of them, the circle of creativity probably wouldn't exist...it's near impossible to have one without the other.

Kinda funny...I was in a totally philosophical mood at the time and was talking about casting on and casting off for knitting.

Too Cute #3!

2005-09-14T13:36:00.000-05:00

Baby Booties #3,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

A crochet set of baby booties to go with my recently finished crochet baby jacket. I was able to finish these with the leftover yarn from the Lionbrand Homespun skein used to make the jacket...and I just made it too...not a drop of yarn left!

Baby, It's Cold Outside!

2005-09-13T12:01:00.000-05:00

Crochet Baby Jacket,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

When I saw this crochet pattern, I just couldn't resist making it! It says you can make it in about 3 hours...yes, that's true for the crochet part but finishing takes about another 1-2 hours...I wonder if patterns factor that in or not? Weaving in ends, sewing up seams takes forever!

Too Cute #2!

2005-09-09T09:25:00.000-05:00

Crochet Baby Booties #2,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Crochet baby booties to match my striped crochet green and white baby jacket are done! Booties are just so adorable and take no time at all...love it!

How Cute Are Baby Booties??!!

2005-09-07T10:32:00.000-05:00

Baby Booties,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

My first set of crochet baby booties are done...to match my first baby jacket! How cute are these? I thought baby jackets were cute...these are cuter! It took me about an hour to do each too...not bad!

Crochet Baby Jacket #2 - Done!

2005-09-06T09:05:00.000-05:00

Crochet Baby Jacket,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I'm done my second baby jacket in white/green stripes! This is for size 3-6 months and is a drop shoulder style. It sure is just as time consuming on baby items to finish off the seams and sew in all the ends...even if it was crocheted in one piece up to the armholes!

Earthly Treasures is Up!

2005-09-04T07:14:00.000-05:00

Kim Hargreaves' Earthly Treasures,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

If you're a fan of Kim Hargreaves' patterns, her Fall Earthly Treasures collection is up! Click here if you haven't already seen it. I just have to say...what's with the petrified and shocked expression on the model's face? Is that what vintage photos used to look like? LOL

Crochet Baby Jacket #2 - Getting There!

2005-09-01T17:07:00.000-05:00

Crochet Baby Jacket #2,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I'm moving along nicely on baby jacket #2...body done in one piece, one sleeve completed, one more sleeve to go, ribbing to add around the neck, button bands to add and then of course seaming it up and it'll be done too! YIPPEE!!

I Have Buttons...Aren't I Cute??

2005-08-30T14:44:00.000-05:00

Crochet Baby Jacket - Done!,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

My crochet baby jacket is done! Buttons are sewn on and she's ready to go... Baby stuff sure is adorable! I used the same yarn I crocheted the jacket with to sew on the buttons...makes it a little more sturdy...don't want the buttons falling off!

All I Need Is Buttons...

2005-08-29T13:31:00.000-05:00

Baby Jacket...So Close!,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

My first baby jacket is seamed up and ready to be buttonized...LOL Now I just need to find the right colour buttons to go with it and it's all done! Yippee! I am very pleased with how it turned out...onto baby jacket #2!

Baby Jacket #2 - Started!

2005-08-29T10:50:00.000-05:00

Baby Jacket #2,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Onto my next crochet baby jacket while I seam up the first one...why does seaming just take foreverrrrrrrr? Even on small garments...ugh! I had to take a break and start something new...this pattern is way cute too!

Baby Jacket - Onto the Hood...

2005-08-26T10:59:00.000-05:00

Baby Jacket - Almost There!,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I forgot just how much "finishing" you have to do with crochet...so even though it goes quickly, there's a bit of time needed to add edgings. Onto the hood now...then seaming and adding buttons and she will be ready! What an adorable project!

How CUTE Are Baby Projects??!!

2005-08-25T12:12:00.000-05:00

Baby Jacket - Fronts Done!,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

The fronts are done and I'm loving baby stuff...they are just way too cute! I might be "hooked" for awhile (no crochet hook pun intended LOL). I may try something knitted as well but for now, the crochet is turning out great! Onto the sleeves...

Back to Crochet!

2005-08-23T18:13:00.000-05:00

Crochet Baby Jacket - Back Done!,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I have changed plans on my baby jacket project...and have opted for crochet instead! Here's the back panel done already. You can find the free pattern here. It's just as cute and crochet seems to suit baby projects better for me... Finished this in an afternoon and now I better do some work...LOL!

Bernat Softee Baby Jacket

2005-08-21T10:46:00.000-05:00

Bernat Softee Baby Jacket,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I have officially launched into multi-project mode...yikes...LOL! I started a baby jacket last night. It's a free pattern from Bernat and it's really quite cute! I have doubled the yarn to make it go faster too...4 mm needles are just too small at the moment! I hope it works out...what colours do you suggest for baby when the gender is unknown? I hope this colour is gender neutral enough...LOL

"Cake" Knitting...LOL

2005-08-18T23:34:00.000-05:00

White Buffalo,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I started some "cake" knitting with the White Buffalo Unspun tonight. The cardigan is what I have planned...it's in the "From the Hip" pattern book by White Buffalo and the colour is steel blue. You have to be extra careful knitting with this yarn...you pull too hard and it tears even with the suggested twisting to the yarn. However, it will knit up quickly...that's only 3 rows so far!

Baby Blankie Done!

2005-08-18T15:37:00.000-05:00

Crochet Baby Blanket,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I just have to weave a few ends in and she's done! The Red Heart Baby Clouds crocheted up very quickly...6 skeins makes a good size blankie too...and it's quite soft and should be nice and warm. Great for those chilly days during the winter...baby is due in late January! Hopefully the new parents will like it!

White Buffalo Unspun

2005-08-18T13:49:00.000-05:00

White Buffalo Unspun,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

What a lovely yarn this is! Call me a softy, but it's Canadian and how can I resist Canadian yarn when it's being discontinued??!! I have enough of a pile of "cakes" to make a cardigan and a striped sweater and it only cost me $40 CDN (including shipping)! Will be perfect for the cold winters we have here!

Quick & Snuggly!

2005-08-12T13:07:00.000-05:00

Crochet Blankie,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Wow, the Red Heart Baby Clouds is crocheting up very quickly and it's really snuggly too! That is the actual size of the crochet hook you have to use for this yarn...10 mm...it's huge! But woohoo, it makes the blankie grow so quickly too! Love the satisfaction of a fast project!

Do You Golf Too?!

2005-08-12T12:11:00.000-05:00

Callaway GES Golf Clubs,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I've recently taken up golfing... It's so much fun!! These are my new clubs...how cool eh? I figured since DH likes it, why not just join him instead of him having all the fun? LOL It's my new hobby alongside knitting of course...wonder if I can incorporate knitting into golfing??!! LOL So, do you golf too?

Crochet Blankie...

2005-08-11T09:59:00.000-05:00

Baby Clouds,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I'm going to take a wee break from knitting and crochet up a baby blankie. My brother is expecting his first baby early in the New Year and I wanted to make a few things for him and his wife...starting with the blankie.

Slow & Steady but Pretty...

2005-08-09T16:58:00.000-05:00

Audrey - Back Progress,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Calmer is knitting up lovely with Audrey...making slow and steady progress in the last few days. And oops, I did the first decrease wrong...purled the knit and knitted the purl so it's flat in one area...can you see it? Oh well, this will be my back piece...I'm not going to redo it as I don't think it will make that huge of a difference in the final product.

What Kind Of Yarn Are You?

2005-08-06T09:46:00.000-05:00

You are Merino Wool. You are very easygoing and sweet. People like to keep you close because you are so softhearted. You love to be comfortable and warm from your head to your toes. Brought to you by Quizilla.

Winter Blooms is Up!

2005-08-02T13:29:00.000-05:00

Winter Blooms is Up!,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Take a look here. I like this scarf but am not sure about the rest of the designs...what do you think? Most of the kits are too expensive for me to even consider so I guess that makes it easy for me...lovely to look at but that's about it.

Comments - Working Again...

2005-08-02T10:12:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Erica for pointing out that my comments feature was not working! Since the comments feature is a default setting with Blogger I would've never thought to check it...if you're on Blogger and not receiving comments, please check to make sure it's working for you too! And I welcome all comments now...if you have a moment...thanks for visiting!

Audrey - Started & Totally Tubular!

2005-07-29T11:23:00.000-05:00

Audrey - Started,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I decided on Audrey from Rowan Magazine 35 as my next project... It's a gorgeous sweater and the Calmer yarn is to die for!! Luscious and lovely to knit with! I did the tubular cast-on too...doesn't it look lovely? What a pretty edging it makes and it's stretchy...just what I need around the hips...hee hee! Took awhile to get it but with some tips online and Nancie Wiseman's book of finishing techniques, I think I got it!

Klaralund - Colourway #201 - FO

2005-07-27T16:53:00.000-05:00

Klaralund - FO,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Here she is...fits wonderfully and I can't wait until winter now to actually be able to wear her! A very enjoyable knit...and it feels great to have another finished item after a long hiatus from knitting...now, what to do next? Hmmmm, I've always wanted to try cables...we'll see!

Klaralund - Pattern Notes

2005-07-27T16:44:00.000-05:00

I am about to post my FO photo of Klaralund but wanted to get my notes to the pattern down first. So here we go:

(1) used size 10 Denise Interchangeable needles;
(2) used 9.25 skeins;
(3) used Silk Garden Colourway #201;
(4) did not close back "V" as it's more flattering open and the sweater is now reversible without the V closed;
(5) steam blocked;
(6) mattress stitched seams;
(7) used acrylic yarn to sew seams as the Silk Garden easily split when pulled too hard; and,
(8) flipped the body pieces and put the bottom at the top and the top at the bottom as long tail cast-on did not allow enough give to go around the waistline.

I am definitely going to look into another way of casting on that's more springy...luckily I was able to flip the body pieces on this sweater but it's not going to be possible on most patterns. A very enjoyable knitting experience. I will do it again...it was quick and easy!

Klaralund - So Close!

2005-07-26T20:02:00.000-05:00

Klaralund - So Close!,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I got the seaming "itch" and did up most of Klaralund except down each sleeve from the body pieces. I tried it on already....will fit just fine and I will leave the "V" in the back open as it's more flattering on me. More notes to the pattern to follow when I post finished pictures.

Klaralund - Almost There!

2005-07-25T20:58:00.000-05:00

Klaralund - Time to Block!,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

It's time to block and then seam! I'm toying with the idea of wet blocking instead of steam blocking like I usually do...but we'll see...steam blocking is always so much quicker. Arghhhhh...hate seaming but I'm anxious to get her done too! Here we gooooooo....

Klaralund - One Down, One to Go!

2005-07-21T12:47:00.000-05:00

Klaralund Sleeve #1,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

One sleeve is complete and onto the next one!! Why do sleeves take so longgggggg? Guess these ones are extra long since they also make up the top half of the sweater so I'll just perservere. Love the colourway!

Silk Garden - Tufts?

2005-07-13T18:38:00.000-05:00

Silk Garden,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

What are these? I keep running into them while knitting Klaralund. Is it a result of the processing of the yarn or something else? I haven't ripped any of them out...just figure I'll knit them in for uniqueness. Does anyone know what these are? Thanks for any comments!

Klaralund - Front Panel Done!

2005-07-12T11:34:00.000-05:00

Klaralund - Front Panel Done!,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Klaralund is knitting up nice and quickly...seems it's four rectangles and no shaping or anything so it's just flying off the needles! A gratuitous shot of my dried wedding bouquets too...wish I had taken them apart and dried each rose individually...oh well, they are still pretty! Onto the sleeves now...woohoo!

Interweave Knits (Spring 2005) & Pakucho Cotton!

2005-07-11T14:05:00.000-05:00

Interweave Knits & Pakucho Cotton,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I just got my order from Elann.com! I couldn't resist the Cable 8 top in the Interweave Knits Spring 2005 magazine and also got the Pakucho Cotton in avocado colour...lovely!! I can't wait to knit with these...maybe I'll do this project after Klaralund...and I'm toying with the idea of subscribing to Interweave Knits...nice magazine!

Klaralund - Back Panel Done!

2005-07-08T17:31:00.000-05:00

Klaralund - Back Panel Done!,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Woohoo, I'm done the back panel...colourway 201 is unfolding beautifully! Just under 2 skeins to do the back...onto the front now! On another note, we just got a/c in the house so I'm knitting like crazy.....ahhhhhhhh, a/c is heaven when it's hot and humid out there!

Can You See the Difference?

2005-07-05T13:59:00.000-05:00

Klaralund - Progress #3,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

On the left is my original knitting on a size 8 needle...and on the right is my second attempt on a size 10 needle. Can you see the difference? Some of the differences I noticed is the larger needle has less curling on the edges and the stitches are more relaxed...which makes me wonder...is strong curling due to a needle being too small? Interesting anyways and thought I'd share...it's hard to see the difference in stitches but the one on the right is a little looser when you look closely and I got that much more in width too when I changed needles...which is great especially since I don't want it too "tight"...

Klaralund - Starting Again!

2005-07-03T19:43:00.000-05:00

Klaralund - Starting Again!,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

One skein done on my size 8 Denise needles and the gauge is too small so I'm starting again!! I should've known better...the same thing happened with the ribby cardi...and since I like to just jump in, I don't check my gauge...OOPS! Oh well, the colourway (201) looks lovely so far... Onto the next needle size up to see how it knits up...should've remembered I'm a *tight* knitter too...arghhh...LOL If I was patient enough to test gauge first maybe I wouldn't have to start over again...but then again, the Noro is lovely to watch unfold so this may just be one really big swatch...LOL

Klaralund Started!

2005-06-29T17:20:00.000-05:00

Klaralund - Started!,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Some knitting content...I actually started Klaralund last night with the Noro Silk Garden...14 rows done and I'm just so proud of myself...especially since it's been way too long since I have been knitting...LOL The elephant is from Jamaica...one of the souvenirs we picked up while there...hand carved too!

Wedding Afghans

2005-06-21T09:42:00.000-05:00

Afghans,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I had to share...these are a gift from my Aunty...both crocheted by her and so lovely!! She even made them in my most favourite colours!! It's always so heart-warming to open a gift and see a handmade item such as these...thanks Aunty!! Love them!!

Back from Jamaica Man!

2005-06-20T21:10:00.000-05:00

Jamaica,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I'm back...all honeymooned out from Jamaica and now a married woman! As for knitting, too hot in Jamaica to even think about it...LOL No problem, I should be at it again soon!

I'll Be Back...

2005-05-29T09:01:00.000-05:00

...said with the best Arnold accent I can muster...LOL! Seriously though, it's my wedding week and we're off to honeymoon in Jamaica following so I won't be back until later in June...happy knitting everyone!

Chunky Knit - An Almost Sweater :)

2005-05-18T21:38:00.000-05:00

Chunky Knit - #7,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Sleeves x 2 are done! We almost have a complete chunky knit sweater...well, once I block and seam and then add a neck of course....LOL

Rowan 35 Arrived!

2005-05-11T17:58:00.000-05:00

Rowan 35 Magazine,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Lovely magazine...just arrived today and is intended for Audrey. Wow, I've had no time for knitting at all lately with settling into a new house and making plans for my wedding. Hopefully I'll get back to it soon...happy knitting everyone!

Noro Silk Garden - WOW!

2005-05-05T15:54:00.000-05:00

Noro Silk Garden,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Nothing like a lovely pile of Noro to make your day!! So gorgeous! I finally decided to just use the Silk Garden for my Klaralund...can't wait to start! Once I'm unpacked and settled...guess I better get to some more knitting!

Rowan Calmer...Oh My!

2005-05-04T17:36:00.000-05:00

Rowan Calmer,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Oh, how nice to get to Toronto to a package of Rowan Calmer waiting for me! Lovely! I'm planning on Audrey for this yarn once I get my Rowan 35 magazine...

Schoeller Stahl Merino...Oh Baby!

2005-05-04T17:29:00.000-05:00

Schoeller Stahl Merino,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I'm back and moved to Toronto! Yippee! It was an eventful move complete with UHaul breakdowns and then the usual delays to get online too...so fun! Oh well, I got this lovely yarn just before I left Edmonton and it's gorgeous!

On the Move...

2005-04-21T20:16:00.000-05:00

We're hitting the road tomorrow so I'll be gone for a few days! Have a great weekend everyone and see you when I return!

Kim Hargreaves - April 20th Launch Date!

2005-04-18T16:16:00.000-05:00

Kim Logo,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I'm so excited...Kim's website is about to be launched on the 20th of April...go check it out!! Here's the link: Kim Hargreaves

Just for Fun!

2005-04-17T18:29:00.000-05:00

StorTroopers,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Too busy packing to do any actual knitting but here's a little fun...they are called "StorTroopers" and you can build your own here. That's my conservative self on the left and if I were younger and hipper, that'd be me on the right...LOL Oh, to be young again!!! Saw these on Fluffa's website...fun stuff!

Mariposa KAL - Just Joined!

2005-04-14T21:38:00.000-05:00

Mariposa KAL Button,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

If you're interested in a KAL for the new Knitty.com Mariposa...join here. Launch date is May 31, 2005 and I should be moved and mostly settled enough by then to be able to decide on my colour and yarn choices. Can't wait to get started!

Moving, Moving, Moving...

2005-04-10T11:55:00.000-05:00

Moving,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Hello everyone...moving has taken over pretty much most of my time these days so I'm going on blog "hiatus" for the next couple of weeks. I should be back around the end of April...see you then and knit on!

Yo-Yo Yarn!

2005-04-09T18:48:00.000-05:00

Stash - Sirdar Yo-Yo,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

After a particularly stressful week at work, I decided to go and check out the last LYS where I currently live before I move out to Toronto in a couple of weeks. Check out the cute yarn I found! This is a big huge 400 g ball of yarn and that's all you need to make any of the sweaters pictured to the right!! I thought, wow, how cool...and how easy for a bit of knitting on the road too! It's just one continuous ball of yarn...no ends to join while knitting!

Spring Knitty is Up!!!

2005-04-08T13:38:00.000-05:00

Go check it out.... Spring Knitty Issue. My most favourite pattern would be Mariposa. Check it out...very flattering!!! I hope to make this one too...but not sure about the back closure as it needs to be pinned or buttoned.

Chunky Knit - Sleeves Times 2

2005-04-05T22:30:00.000-05:00

Chunky Knit - Sleeves,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I haven't made as much progress on my sleeves as I would've liked by now but they're going times two...LOL I'll be moving in 2.5 weeks so we'll see how far I get on the sleeves before I have to make the long trek out East.

In Time for Stash Flashing...Cascade Pima Melange!

2005-04-01T19:25:00.000-05:00

Stash - Cascade Pima Melange,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Just in time...for flashing my stash! I just received my ordered from Littleknits.com...looky looky! It's lovely! I have my Mom in mind for this yarn...she looks great in rose colours and blues.

Oh Glorious Stash, Let Me Flash Thee...

2005-04-01T02:02:00.000-05:00

Flash Your Stash!,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Oh go ahead, you know you want to! Ogle my stash here. If you want to be part of the fun on the Knittyboard.com flash-your-stash-along, join here.

HAVE A HAPPY FLASHY DAY!

Chunky Sweater - Back Panel Done!

2005-03-30T21:52:00.000-05:00

Chunky Knit - Progress #4,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I'm done the back and now onto the sleeves! The pattern says to do both sleeves at once...great idea! I'm enjoying this pattern...very straightforward and easy-to-follow...great combo!

Knitting & Packing!

2005-03-29T20:56:00.000-05:00

Chunky Knit Progress #3 & Packing!,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I'm still here...just busy packing now for my move to Toronto (as you can see from the pile of stuff) and managing to knit here and there too...the back panel of my chunky sweater is coming along! And if you look closely at my pile of stuff to move, you will see a few rubber maid containers...guess what's in there? YARN!!! LOL

Chunky Sweater - Front Panel Done!

2005-03-25T20:40:00.000-05:00

Chunky Knit Progress #2,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

It's coming along very quickly with size 11 needles and the pattern is a breeze to read. I sure do like how it's set out by row #s instead of telling you to knit until the piece is so many inches long. It seems more exact this way! Onto the back now...

Wearing Anya Today!

2005-03-23T13:48:00.000-05:00

A no-pictures blog entry today...LOL I am wearing my Anya sweater for the first time...yippee! It's very comfy and the yarn is soft next to the skin! Unlike my ribby cardi, it's not quite so warm as 100% wool and on a spring-like snowy day, it's perfect under a light coat...I just love it! I had the thought too...maybe it is (gasp!!) worth it to buy the more expensive yarn if it's going to end up in a sweater being very comfortable. The Silkroad Aran tweed cost me about $75 CDN but it's well worth the comfort...I think???!! Until I find something less expensive and just as comfy of course...LOL

Chunky Knits are Quick!! :)

2005-03-22T12:50:00.000-05:00

Chunky Knit Progress #1,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Wow, that was fast! I haven't put too much time into knitting yet and look at the progress! Are all chunky knits like this? :) I may just revert to all chunky knits from now on...LOL But what a great way to get a "quick fix" from the tediousness of other knits!

Textured Knits - Rugged Soft Sweater

2005-03-20T14:47:00.000-05:00

Chunky Knit Sweater,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Last night I decided on a chunky knit sweater. I haven't done one yet and with size 11 needles, it should go quickly too! I found this pattern in Textured Knits...and will knit it using Schoeller Stahl Volare yarn. I found this yarn on Elann.com for a very reasonable price too! Gotta love Elann!

Anya in Action!

2005-03-19T12:43:00.000-05:00

Anya in Action,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

The only reservation I have about this sweater style is its "boxy-ness" shape. Doesn't really show any curves of the body. Oh well, this is my third sweater and I'm still learning what will be the best style for my body shape too. Next I'll be looking at sweaters with more "shaping". It was a quick knit and the yarn colour is gorgeous!

Anya Makes Her Debut!

2005-03-19T12:40:00.000-05:00

FO - Anya,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I'm done...woohoo!! The pattern called for 12 skeins of yarn...I ended up using about 10.5 skeins only...phew!!! My other Jo Sharp pattern ended up not having enough yarn...could be the difference in pattern and texture stitches most likely. So glad this one worked out!

Anya - So Close!

2005-03-17T00:33:00.000-05:00

Anya - Almost There!,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

One more side and sleeve to seam and then onto the neck...almost there!! Anyone have any tips on how to make sure the seams line up properly? I always find I'm just a bit off about halfway there and have to adjust accordingly. Is there an easier way than fudging as you go? Thanks for any comments!

Seam Me, Seam Me!

2005-03-15T00:46:00.000-05:00

Anya - Seam Me!,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

All my pieces are blocked and ready to be seamed! Then onto the neck and I'm finished...woohoo!! Hopefully I can wear this by the end of the week...it's going to snow maybe and I'd love to wear it before Spring sets in! The yarn looks lovely knitted up and what a great colour too!

Another Cardigan...So Cute!

2005-03-13T21:27:00.000-05:00

Textured Knits,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Look at the cardigan featured on the front of the Textured Knits pattern book...so cute! There's another in this pattern book that I instantly fell in love with too! Not only were there patterns in this book and quite a few cute ones but also some instructional material on textured knitting...which is way cool too!

Tahki Fall/Winter 2004 Collection

2005-03-12T11:46:00.000-05:00

Tahki Fall/Winter 2004 Collection,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Oh oh, now I'm collecting pattern books....LOL! Lots of cute patterns in this selection of patterns...and 3 in particular I really like...hope to get to them one day! I used to only buy the yarn with a pattern and now I'm buying patterns without the yarn...does that make me a bonified stash-aholic? LOL! How many of you buy patterns without the yarn and then look for yarn later?

Anya - One Down, One to Go!

2005-03-10T01:20:00.000-05:00

Anya - Sleeve #1,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I am getting close to finishing my third sweater...woohoo!! The small amount of detailing on the sweater is turning out to be quite pretty. The end of the sleeves will "bell" slightly to just above the ribbing as there are decreases following...a nice little effect I wasn't expecting and I quite like! Hopefully it'll show when wearing too.

Ribby #2 is in the Works...

2005-03-08T00:54:00.000-05:00

Highland Peruvian Wool,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I just can't resist...I love the pattern too much and the cardigan is too cute! And what about the yarn? Way too reasonable too!! I really like these colours too - the admiral blue will be for the body and the raspberry will be for the sleeves. And of course, the next question is to stripe or not to stripe??!! :) I may just tackle ribby #2 after I'm done Anya...since the pattern is still fresh.

Anya - Back Panel Done!

2005-03-06T19:03:00.000-05:00

Anya - Back Panel,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

And onto the sleeves we go...LOL She needs a good blocking...look at those curling edges... Stockinette hasn't been the most interesting stitch to do but it does go quickly once you get knitting. No worries about running out of yarn on this project yet. I still have 5 3/4 skeins left to finish the sleeves and neck.

Anya - Tweedy Goodness!

2005-03-04T19:50:00.000-05:00

Anya - Tweedy Goodness!,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Still plugging along on Anya! The tweedy goodness of the yarn inspires me but I'm sure getting bored with the st st!! I'd take ribbing anytime over knit one row, purl one row, knit one row, purl one row...the purl side is torturous...LOL Oh well, the yarn is tweedy and gorgeous so I'm quite sure it'll be a pretty sweater! I am so tempted to cast on for another project but if I do, I'll probably put this one aside and never pick it up again...LOL

Classic Elite Spotlight - Oh My!

2005-03-03T20:19:00.000-05:00

Stash - Classic Elite Spotlight,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Do I see another ribby cardi in my future? A cotton one perhaps using this yarn? It's sure lovely! Or maybe a different kind of cardigan...we'll see!! I want to cast onnnnnnnn....but musttttttt finish my other project.....LOL

Tagged Again! LOL

2005-03-01T23:54:00.000-05:00

I have been tagged by Amber with the knitting meme:
Do you knit using the English or Continental Method? I use the English method to knit. I'm a "thrower". I hope to try Continental at some point.
Who taught you how? My Mom...during Christmas 2004.
What was your first FO? A garter stitch scarf.
Favourite pattern source? I like the internet and books for patterns.
Favourite needles? For circulars, I like Denise Interchangeables and recently I've tried Addi Turbos and love them too. For straights, I like anything bamboo or rosewood.
Nicest thing you've ever knit? My Ribby Cardi which I just finished. I also really liked my Jo Sharp Nina sweater but my seaming wasn't as good as the cardigan.
Most hated project? Anything that involves needles smaller than 4.00 mm...I feel like I'm knitting with toothpicks...LOL
Who are you going to pass this on to? Jessie

My Ribby's Famous! TEE HEE!

2005-02-27T16:57:00.000-05:00

Chicknits Gallery,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I've been posted on the Ribby Cardi gallery and am also on Chicknit.com's knitting blog! For more information, visit here for the blog: Chicknits.com Blog and for the gallery, click on my "Gallery Ribby" button under the KALs on the right hand sidebar. For the Chicknits Ribby Gallery details, click here. Thanks Bonne for posting my photo...I feel a bit famous...tee hee!

Anya - Front Panel Done!

2005-02-23T22:38:00.000-05:00

Anya - Front Panel Done!,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

If it weren't for the lovely Silkroad Aran Tweed (in posie) yarn by Jo Sharp, I don't think I'd like the stockinette of this sweater pattern. Other than the bottom ribbing pattern, it's nothing but st st...ugh! Oh well, the yarn colour is lovely and the tweed flecks make it nice. And bless Jo Sharp...her patterns really are good for "womanly" sizing...no worry about this one being too "snug" or "smallish".

Knitpicks.com Yarn - I Succumbed! LOL

2005-02-23T19:33:00.000-05:00

Stash - Knitpicks Yarn,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I couldn't resist...had to get some too! And why not? The prices are fabulous and for Canadians, they ship this side of the border and pay the taxes for you...so no border hang-ups! This is the merino style in Hollyberry and it's really very lovely! Not sure what I'll do with it yet but maybe another cardigan!

Ribby Cardi - In Action #2

2005-02-22T20:53:00.000-05:00

Ribby Cardi - In Action #2,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Couldn't resist taking another picture of my cardigan...can you tell I'm so proud of it?? HEE HEE! My other photo shows the collar better with my hair up but I have to smile for at least one of my shots...I am happy I finished it after all...LOL Can't wait to wear it now!

Ribby Cardi - In Action!

2005-02-21T21:12:00.000-05:00

Ribby Cardi - In Action,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

She fits great! It's a wee "snug" but overall, it will probably give a little after a few wears and should be just fine! I plan on doing this pattern again...it's very easy! And when I do, I'll probably go up a size and lengthen it a wee bit.

Ribby Cardi - Finished!

2005-02-21T21:10:00.000-05:00

FO - Ribby Cardi,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

I'm done! I had my zipper installed by a seamstress for $20 and she's wearable now! Notes about the pattern: (1) I used 5.0 mm instead of 4.5 mm for the body panels to give the ribbing a bit more "spring"; (2) The collar was supposed to be a mock turtleneck version but it ended up a bit long and the seamstress thought it best to put the zipper just to the top of the front panels which works for me as it sits better this way; and (3) I made the back panel slightly shorter than the front panels and had to pick up stitches and add the blue at the bottom to make them even in length...an "oops" to start but turned out nicely anyways.

Ribby Cardi - Zipper on Monday!

2005-02-19T20:16:00.000-05:00

I have managed to get my ribby cardi to a seamstress and I should be picking her up on Monday with a zipper installed! The seamstress had a nice blue zipper that will match the sleeves and I'm excited about it finally being finished! I got a "it's nice" out of her too when she asked if I made it. That was kinda cool! Now I should really consider learning how to sew so I can put my own zippers in...LOL!

Jo Sharp's Anya - Started!

2005-02-18T18:55:00.000-05:00

Anya - Started!,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

While I wait for my ribby cardi to be zippered, I thought I'd start another project...and I landed on Anya from Jo Sharp's Gathering Book Five. The yarn called out to me...whatcha gonna do? LOL I have a few cm of the ribbing done now and this is my colour. The yarn is a little nubby since it's a tweed and not as "smooth" as the Silkroad Aran...but still just as lovely! Sure hope I don't run out of yarn like I did with Nina!

Ribby Cardi - Almost There!

2005-02-15T23:04:00.000-05:00

Ribby Cardi - Almost There!,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Here she is...one arm left to seam, collar to add and a zipper to install. As you can see, I added a band of blue at the back...had to as when I was seaming it up the sides, I realized the front panels were slightly longer than the back panel...oops! Oh well, the blue is kinda fun. One hint: when seaming with Highland wool, don't pull too hard or the yarn will tear...happened to me a couple of times on the sleeves. Hope to have it finished and zipped up by the weekend. It looks like it's "just" going to fit too...which seems to be the norm on this cardi...it's coming out smaller for everyone.

Ribby Cardi - Sleeve #2 Done!

2005-02-13T00:56:00.000-05:00

Ribby Cardi - Sleeve #2,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Yippee...my frogged sleeve is now done! It looks the same as the other even though I didn't do them together...phew (LOL). Tomorrow I'll think about blocking and maybe a bit of seaming...hopefully my seaming technique will be better for my second sweater.

Updated My Blog & My Button

2005-02-11T16:15:00.000-05:00

Hi Folks...still knitting on my frogged sleeve and am almost done but in the meantime, I've updated my blog a bit...finally created myself a title bar and also put up a new picture of myself wearing something knitted...to go with the theme...LOL Feel free to take my button and link back to me too...and if you have a button, let me know and I'll do the same!

Tagged & Been "It" For 8 Days! LOL

2005-02-11T15:42:00.000-05:00

Okay, I finally clued in to the "you're tagged" part of my blog so here goes and believe me, this is going to be boring...I am not a huge music fan like I was when I was "younger"...LOL

1) Total amount of music files on your computer: None! I am at work and well, we just can't do that here...LOL At home...same thing...I use my DVD player to play my music.
2) The last CD you bought was: Shania Twain's Greatest Hits. She's all Canadian and I love her music even if I'm not a "country" fan but her songs, wow!
3) What is the song you last listened to before reading this message? Uhhh, something on Much Music...I think it was 50 cents' "Candy Shop"...LOL
4) What are your five favourite songs and why they mean the most to you (now here comes the good stuff!): Oh dear, this is a tough one as I really don't know what my five favourite songs are...but maybe I'll develop some after I get married? LOL

UPDATE: Okay, so that sounded pretty lame when I wrote it yesterday so I thought I'd mention that I do have artists I prefer and if I really had to think about it, I'd probably be able to pull a few favourites from them too...LOL Anyways, my taste in music seems to be pretty distinct...I like artists such as Ashante, Nelly, Beyonce, Sean Paul, Shaggy, Usher, etc. to name just a few. I tend to prefer a "funky" beat with some soul mixed in or reggae.

5) What 3 people are you going to pass this baton to and why? To the following fun and cool bloggers I found by way of the Ribby Cardi KAL:
(1) Sweet Georgia
(2) Stacey's Stash
(3) Knitting Nyxxie

To all of my "tagees"...sorry!! I had no idea who to tag and hopefully you haven't been tagged already. Thanks for sharing!

Froggy Tuesday! Rip-pit!

2005-02-08T22:19:00.000-05:00

Froggy!,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Have you ever been knitting along and thinking, woohoo, I'm doing so good..progessing nicely and then OOPS, a stitch slips off and you can't fix it? Well, that was my experience tonight and afterwards, I had to pull right back to the first few rows on sleeve #2 of my cardi. Ever had a similar experience? Tell me about it...it may help me feel better...LOL

Ribby Cardi - One Sleeve Done!

2005-02-06T19:38:00.000-05:00

Ribby Cardi - One Sleeve Done!,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

One down, one to go! Hopefully I'll get the other sleeve done this week and think about seaming this coming weekend! I'm liking the colour combo so far and the striping is turning out great too.

Ribby Cardi - Sleeves Started!

2005-02-05T13:15:00.000-05:00

Ribby Cardi - Sleeves Started!,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

My sleeves are started and I really quite like how the rosewood and mid-indigo blue go together!! I think I'll add another stripe of rosewood about elbow level on the sleeves...to pull it all together...why not? May as well be a bit creative anyways...LOL

Ribby Cardi - Right Front Done!

2005-02-04T00:45:00.000-05:00

Ribby Cardi - Right Front,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

And onto the sleeves we go... I'm tossing with the idea of incorporating some of the rosewood into the sleeves since those who have finished the cardi on the KAL are reporting not enough yarn for the sleeves and left-over for the body pieces. We'll see how it goes...

Hmmmm....what do you think?

2005-02-03T19:46:00.000-05:00

Klaralund - Progress Photo #2,
originally uploaded by Roxanne2005.

Now that I've knitted up a bit more of the handpainted yarn, I'm wondering, does this look too much like sock yarn? Hmmmmm...what do you think? Maybe it's just me....and it'll be better as it gets bigger.....LOL Thanks for any comments!