frottez!

Looking for me?

2011-06-22T12:56:00.003-04:00

Yes, I admit I almost never post here anymore--it's just gotten so much easier to do little design updates on facebook. You can find me here.

TNNA!

2011-01-14T21:37:00.003-05:00

Okay.

So I went to my very first Winter TNNA, in sunny (but not that warm but more than warm enough for me) Long Beach, California.

I don't usually do this, but this time I had to. Why? Because lucky me, I got to do a book signing for Knit a Dozen Plus Slippers! Unfortunately, the books didn't make it there, but we made do by offering to send the books to the people who came by the booth. I chatted up the book and sat on display for an hour, which was weird but kind of fun.

I also managed to catch up with a lot of people I've been wanting to catch up with, enjoyed being outside without a coat, and petted tons of yarn, some of which I managed to take home with me.

The weirdest thing about California (yes, I had never been there before!) was that the restaurants all had calories listed on the menus. While this got in the way of wanton eating orgies (couldn't claim ignorance, you know?), it did keep me in line diet-wise, which was good. I'm down 40 pounds since Labor Day and hoping to be down 75 altogether sometime this summer. Thankfully, Weight Watchers doesn't prohibit Taco Bell, or I'd never make it.

The plane ride was tedious, but my friend Jae and I found something very excellent in the Sky Mall catalog called "Bigfoot the Garden Yeti". Yes, that's exactly what it was. Also, apparently you can get dog crates that look like end tables so you can just stuff your dog in the furniture when you want to go out. Who knows, it was funny, but maybe it was just hunger-induced delirium since they don't even give you a lousy bag of peanuts anymore.

Exciting things? I saw the design I did for spring Classic Elite on the cover on the upcoming pattern book (!!) and lined up some good stuff for the months to come. Also, I ate my first piece of cake in 4 months (thank you delicious cake at the Soho Publishing booth cake and wine party-- I had to eat it, it was networking, right?)

So now, back to the snow, back to the cold, and back to a lot of work I need to finish since I spent the weekend not doing those things.

New designs!

2010-11-05T22:47:00.011-04:00

Okay, so what's new? Lots!

The Winter issue of Interweave Knits comes out later this month. I did two designs for it, Ginevra's Pullover in Malabrigo Twist and Malabrigo Lace, and the Kinetic Cowl, in Zitron Opus 1. Both were a lot of fun to knit! The sweater is worked top down in one piece with waist shaping, and the cowl starts out as a bias strip, showing off the self-striping yarn in a different way.

Also, there's the new Holiday issue of Vogue Knitting! The yarns I used for this one, Kid Seta Luxe and Cashmere Fino from Skacel, were so yummy that even the sweaty summer weather I endured while knitting didn't take away from the fun. I love the hint of sparkle and the dramatic cowl neck knit in glorious cashmere!

That's not all (I was REALLY busy this summer, let's leave it at that!) I also did 2 designs for the Holiday Knit Simple, both for girls. The jumper is in Stitch Nation Full o' Sheep and the cardigan is Claudia Worsted. Both use different sized (but very similar) cables, so you could knit them both as a set if you like.

For the November issue of Creative Knitting, I did a neck gaiter and hat set in a cozy yarn from Cascade called Baby Alpaca Chunky. Simple stripes, quick and easy to knit. My mom made off with the samples, saying they'll be perfect for supervising recess this winter.

Not to be outdone, I also designed a pair of cowls for the Interweave Holiday Gifts issue in more yummy yarns from Skacel, including Mosco (one of my all time favorites!) The two versions use the same stitch pattern to different effect. The cowl in Mosco is larger, drapier, and more dramatic while the tweed version is smaller and more rustic.

And last, but not least, crocheted Christmas stockings for the November/December issue of Crochet Today! in Red Heart Spark a Doodle and Holiday. These are a quick project-- I crocheted both in a day or so. The pom poms on the Spark a Doodle made a perfect "furry" top for the stockings.

Right now I'm catching my breath a bit and getting ready for the next round! Spring and Summer things are (mostly) behind me at this point, and thinking about next Fall is what is mainly on my mind, design-wise.

Blog Tour Begins!

2010-09-19T21:02:00.003-04:00

The blog tour for my book, Knit a Dozen Plus Slippers, begins tomorrow morning. The first stop (also a friend of mine who owns the best spinning shop ever) has kindly gotten started a little bit early. Check it out here.

Knit a Dozen Plus Slippers

2010-08-04T14:54:00.004-04:00

My book, Knit a Dozen Plus Slippers is out! It features 13 slipper patterns, with a variety of heel/toe treatments and in sizes for the whole family. Here's a few:

What's new?

2010-06-28T16:24:00.004-04:00

I've been getting a lot of new designs together lately-- all for winter. I'm so glad I have air conditioning, because I don't know how I could stand knitting mohair in the summer otherwise! :)

Previews for the Fall issues of Knit Simple and Knitscene are up, and I have 2 designs in each.

First, Knit Simple:

(photo by Paul Amato)
This one is in Blue Sky Alpacas Sport Weight, and sized to 3X!

(photo by Rose Callahan)
This one is in Classic Elite Montera and is knit top down in one piece.

And Knitscene:

In Mission Falls 1824 Wool.

In Stacy Charles Tivoli. The collar has some fancy short rows that create angles in the ribbing.

The sweater I'm working on now, for Interweave Knits, should be done in a matter of hours! I've got knitters working on some other projects, so the next few days are going to be filled with finishing (I always do that part myself-- actually I knit most of my samples too).

Retreating, retreating, and Interweave Knits

2010-05-05T15:59:00.006-04:00

(Yes, it's true! I finally got something in Interweave Knits- the Marigold Sweater in the Summer issue).

As a rather sharp departure from my usual mode of self-employed solitude, I spent most of the past week and a half at two different (and very enjoyable) retreats. I neglected to bring my camera to either, so here's a couple of pictures borrowed from friends who did (thanks ladies!).

That's me in the back corner looking studious.

First I attended the Spinning Loft's retreat in Pennsylvania, held at a stunningly gorgeous B&B. The focus was breed studies, and I enjoyed it more than I can say. Suffice to say I am now in possession of two items I swore I'd never buy: wool combs and dirty fleece. Thanks to Beth for getting me over my fear of both.

What a view, right? (p.s. Great picture Sonya!)

I was home a grand total of 2 days, then I was off again, this time to a knitting retreat organized by my friend Tina on the shores of Lake Huron, just north of Port Huron. I spent the next few days knitting (yes, on work projects mostly) and spinning a bit too (since the previous weekend had gotten me in the mood). It was so relaxing.

So now I'm back, scrambling to get my ducks back in a row where they belong. Wish me luck!

Happy Belated Birthday

2010-04-06T09:58:00.002-04:00

Okay, as evidenced by my not-so-frequent posting these days, apparently I missed my blog's 5th birthday (it was Sunday). Or possibly I missed it because of all the ham and jellybeans, being Easter and all.

Anyway, New Stuff is out!

Little crocheted booties in the May/June Crochet Today!

and

Multiple things in the Knitscene Easy special issue (officially comes out next week).

Also-- yesterday marked 5 years since I published my first design (awwww...)

New Stuff!

2010-03-20T09:36:00.003-04:00

I've had several new patterns come out in the past few days-- in the June issue of Knit n' Style, Spring/Summer issue of Knit Simple, and a couple of yarn companies too. Take a look!

photo from Spring/Summer 2010 Knit Simple. Knit in Cascade Fixation.

Vogue Knitting, Spring Nashua

2010-03-07T20:09:00.004-05:00

More new stuff!

Cable Neck Cardi in the Spring/Summer issue of Vogue Knitting

3 designs for Nashua Handknits Spring collection

See them all here.

Toe-Up book winners!

2010-02-21T14:59:00.003-05:00

Our lucky winners are Melody and Jae! Ladies, please email me at amypolcyn AT yahoo DOT com to let me know your addresses.

Thanks to all who tried!

Circular Knitting Redefined

2010-02-19T20:51:00.004-05:00

The new book Circular Knitting Redefined is out, and is a fun interpretation on using circular needles. While all the projects are knit on circular needles, they aren't all in the round--all sorts of methods are included, such as side-to-side, top-down, and more.

I did two designs for the book. First, the Tribeca Belted Cardigan in Nashua Handknits Ecologie Wool (a nice thick and thin organic wool). It's knit in one piece from the bottom up, with raglan shaping and a shawl collar. No seams! The belt is made using double knitting for a nice thick piece that has no "wrong side".

Second, the Chain-Link Cardigan, knit in Berroco Comfort DK. It is knit from cuff to cuff with a slip-stitch color pattern on the cuffs and body. The color pattern is in garter stitch so it stands out in relief against the stockinette stitch ground. Both sweaters are sized up to a 52" bust so they will fit a wide variety of women.

Toe-Up Blog Tour!

2010-02-16T09:41:00.008-05:00

Today we are lucky enough to be the next stop on the blog tour for Chrissy Gardiner's fabulous book Toe-Up! Patterns and Worksheets to Whip Your Sock Knitting Into Shape. Though I am a bit biased (I'm one of Chrissy's tech editors), this book really is an inspiring and useful guide to toe-up sock knitting.

Chrissy guides you through a number of different cast-ons, bind-offs, and toe and heel techniques, provides you with a wardrobe of lovely patterns for the whole family, and best of all-- the worksheets! These allow you to easily customize a pattern using your preferred techniques and size.

I asked Chrissy a few questions to find out more.

1. What inspired you to write the book?

At the time I started writing, there weren't really any comprehensive books on toe-up sock knitting out there. I got really excited about the idea of including worksheets that allow knitters to customize their toes and heels because it empowers them to take any pattern and figure out the hardest part (heel and toe math) without reinventing the formulas from scratch. Since there's a huge disproportion in the number of top-down sock patterns vs toe-up, this lets math-phobic toe-up sock fanatics easily convert many top-down sock patterns or make up their own designs.

2. I think all sock knitters have that "special thing" that made them fall in love with socks. For me it's turning heels. What do you love best about knitting socks?

To me, socks are the perfect little palette for really going crazy with your stitch patterns. They're not a huge time commitment and I find it easier to knit complicated designs in the round rather than flat (like on a scarf). I love socks for the sheer joy of experimentation. I have to admit to loving toe-up socks because I hate knitting toes and love knitting cuffs. Top-down socks can sometimes be agonizing for me once I turn the heel and have to knit that endless foot/toe before I can put them on. With toe-up socks, the fun part (for me) comes last, and I always love to save the best for last!

3. If you were only allowed to use one toe-up cast on for the rest of your life, what would it be? How about one bind off?

For the cast-on, no question - Judy's Magic Cast-On! I use it pretty much exclusively now. For bind-offs, I love the yarn-over bind-off that I learned from Eunny Jang years ago. Very soon I'm going to teach myself Jeny's Surprisingly Stretchy Bind-Off, which is an improved variation of the yarn-over bind-off that Jeny Staiman developed totally from scratch and introduced to the world via Knitty (http://knitty.com/ISSUEfall09/FEATjssbo.php). I tend to be resistant to change and it often takes me awhile to get on board with these newfangled things!

4. My favorite pattern in the book is Sakura. What was your inspiration for that design?

I originally designed Sakura (which is the Japanese word for cherry blossom - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sakura) for the Woolgirl sock club a few years ago. When Jennifer Jett sent me the club yarn, she included a beautiful Chinese painting of a cherry tree in bloom (similar to the one at http://www.cherrybrush.co.uk/buy-paintings/plants/Cherry-Blossom/). The picture immediately triggered the memory of a cherry tree motif I'd seen in one of my Japanese stitch dictionaries, and that motif became the panels I used on the heel flap and up the back of the leg. The lace pattern down the front of the sock reminded me of falling petals, and I spent hours tweaking an existing leaf lace pattern so that the leaves were offset and didn't look quite so "leafy".

5. Any advice for those considering self-publishing a book?

The biggest advantage of self-publishing (complete control) is also one of the most difficult aspects of it. You need to be prepared to learn how to either do or hire someone who can help you do book design, layout, photography, editing, proofreading, publicity and any number of other little detail things that have absolutely nothing to do with writing or designing. You really have to be full-service! I love many of those activities and am extremely happy to have the absolute last word on what goes into my books, but it can be overwhelming. Some days I want to just knit instead of thinking about photo styling and choosing the right fonts!

6. What's coming up next for you?

My next book, which I hope will be coming out sometime this fall, will feature biographical profiles of a cross-section of independent yarn dyers who are currently doing wonderful things with fiber. I'll be focusing on one or two colorways from each dyer and discussing my design process for each yarn as I come up with a sock design that inspired by that yarn. I always love to hear about other artists' creative processes, and I hope that lots of knitters will be interested in them as well!

Note from me: Love the book idea! :)

SO-- would you like to own your very own copy of this lovely tome? I have 2 copies to give away! Leave a comment on this post if you'd like to win and I'll randomly select 2 winners at the end of the week.

Next stop on the tour: The Designer's Studio

TNNA Fashion Show

2010-01-30T20:09:00.001-05:00

Check out the latest sweater I designed for Aslan Trends in the TNNA fashion show!

60 Quick Knits in Cascade 200

2010-01-29T09:12:00.003-05:00

I, like many of you, I'm sure, love the simple practicality and awesome color range of Cascade 220. Also, it's one of those yarns that tends to always be in the stash, but not necessarily in sweater quantities. So how perfect to have a big book with lots of small projects using it?

I designed 2 scarves for the book-- here's one of them:

The other one is a mitered square affair using different variegated shades of 220. I'll put a picture up once I get my mitts on one. :)

(photos by Jack Deutsch)

New designs from Aslan Trends

2010-01-25T18:26:00.003-05:00

I've been designing for Aslan Trends for the past couple of years, starting with a little boy's sweater I did for their pattern book Season's Change Volume 2. Since then, they've shifted their focus to individual patterns, which retailers can download for customers. Here's two of my latest for them, now available from yarn shops that carry Aslan Trends:

Cropped Lacy Jacket in Pima Clasico, a really nice to work with cotton yarn. Worked from the top down.

Del Sur Cardi in Del Sur, a super bulky thick and thin wool. Worked from the top down. Super fast yarn with a nice texture from the thick and thin.

I did a third design for them very recently in their new yarn Litoral, which a little bird tells me will be in an upcoming Aslan Trends newsletter.

Lots of new designs!

2010-01-18T09:33:00.003-05:00

Lots of new designs of mine have come out recently...
Aegean Mitts in the new Knitscene:

Apple Green Silk Cardigan in the Spring Love of Knitting:

Beaded Heart Reticule in the March Creative Knitting:

and, last but not least-- a little girl's dress in the April Knit n' Style:

Design in Winter Vogue Knitting!

2009-12-20T20:17:00.003-05:00

Taking a second out from frantically finishing another design and baking lots of cookies with the Hubbo and Kiddo to share my design in the upcoming Winter issue of Vogue Knitting (coming out January 5-- photo by Paul Amato). It's a top down cardi with a cabled yoke knit in Bergere de France Origin Mohair.

What else is coming up? Well, check the next issues of Knitscene, Creative Knitting, Knit n' Style, Love of Knitting...

The Theme is Frosting

2009-11-16T12:09:00.004-05:00

I know, I know-- so neglected. I've been super busy on Spring designs (for Mission Falls, Nashua, Skacel, Aslan Trends, bunch of magazines and who knows what else!) and tech editing. Besides that, it's all about spinning, which has become my "fun" thing, since pretty much all my knitting is for someone else.

Over the weekend I got to attend a really cool art yarns workshop with Jacey Boggs at the Spinning Loft. I learned a ton, got to sleep over at the shop and generally had a really good time. Behold some of the yarn I made (warning- I used random fiber to practice with, so don't hold the color combos against me):

Design-wise, I've got stuff coming out soon in VK and Knitscene and then a bunch more in the Spring issues. I did a stocking design for the new (Winter) Love of Knitting (my friend Jae did one too); actually there's a bunch of stocking patterns in this issue -- check it out!

New design in Knit n' Style!

2009-10-05T23:56:00.002-04:00

Here's my design from the December '09 issue of Knit n' Style. It was made in one of my favorite fancy yarns, Tilli Tomas Plie, and the lower portion is worked in Tilli Tomas Mariel's Crystals (the one with Swarovski crystals strung on it for ultra-bling). The lower portion is worked first from side to side with short rows to create the crystal-y wedges, then stitches are picked up to complete the front and back. The upper back is ribbed to improve the fit. Picture a fancy New Year's Eve party- that's the idea.

Nashua Handknits Fall pattern books!

2009-08-04T10:09:00.003-04:00

Yesterday the UPS man was kind enough to bring me the new fall pattern books from Nashua Handknits. My contributions:

From the booklet "Paradise" (new yarn, also called Paradise):

And from Nashua Handknits Magazine, volume 2 (matching sweater and beret):

Right now I'm knitting spring designs for Nashua. I finished one last week in Daylily, and am doing another right now in a new yarn.

New Vogue Knitting!

2009-07-23T14:22:00.004-04:00

The fall issue of Vogue Knitting was nestled in my mailbox today. I was so delighted to see my very first design for VK, a cabled pullover in Classic Elite Chesapeake! (Double bonus-- when the subscription card fell out, I picked it up and discovered my sweater was on it as well). I had already seen the photo from the mag at TNNA, but nothing beats having the actual magazine in your hands, you know?

I love how this one turned out! I ended up knitting two samples, the green one you see here and in the magazine, and a second in yellow for Classic Elite's booth at TNNA. The yarn is held double so it works up super fast!

New designs!

2009-07-14T09:02:00.004-04:00

So yesterday the mailman was kind enough to bring me only good things, most notably the fall issues of Creative Knitting and Knit Simple, both with new designs of mine. Let's share, shall we?

First off, in the September Creative Knitting, this mitered square top. It was really fun to knit (just 2 pieces, a front and a back). I swatched the original in Noro Silk Garden, but the sample was knit in Wisdom Poems.

In the Fall Knit Simple, there's this little girl's jacket in Manos, part of a story they were doing on putting zippers in kid's knits. Love the model in the magazine-- she's too cute!

Also in the Fall Knit Simple, this one for the Plus Size story. It's in Zitron Ecco. I don't love yellow but I like how it turned out all the same.

Corespinning!

2009-06-21T19:30:00.000-04:00

Inspired by yesterday's spin-in at The Spinning Loft, I'm giving it a try. I'm using crochet cotton as the core and Louet Northern Lights to wrap it on my mega jumbo Lendrum bobbin. So far, so good!

Back from TNNA

2009-06-16T13:53:00.000-04:00

Unpacking, exhausted. Lots of nice goodies this time! Lined up some work, saw 4 books I tech edited and my new designs for Nashua, Mission Falls, Louet, Aslan Trends, Alpaca With a Twist, Knit Simple, and Vogue Knitting, plus plenty of older ones on display. Lots of chances to chat with great people I only see once a year plus met lots of people in person that I only knew through emails. Jae was a fabulous roomate and Beth o' The Spinning Loft was fun as ever. Giant and delicious cupcakes at the Interweave booth.

Next stop? Things to follow up on and getting ready for the big dance recital tomorrow.

Presenting... Spinnerino!

2009-05-28T18:07:00.003-04:00

Emma was yearning for a wheel that suits her personality, so last night after ballet we went to Michael's and got some wheel jazzing-up supplies (and can I just say, that Krylon Fusion spray paint for plastic is really awesome?) And now, her ordinary wheel has been transformed into "Spinnerino."

Emma's New Wheel!

2009-05-27T08:04:00.001-04:00

Here she is trying out her new Babe Pinkie.

Toe Up Wonderfulness

2009-05-20T16:08:00.005-04:00

I've been helping Chrissy Gardiner with the tech editing on her upcoming all toe-up, circular-and-dpns-alike sock book over the past few months. Today I had the delight of taking a final peek at the laid out pages, and I have to say I was blown away. Even for a rabid sock-knitter like myself, Chrissy has tons of tidbits to share so there's something new for everyone to learn (and more than enough information and photos for the newbie to get started, including detailed descriptions of various toe-up heels, toes, etc). The patterns are gorgeous-- about half are sized for little wee people up to big strapping men, the rest are fancy socks for the ladies (several of which give Cookie a run for her money, seriously!) Best of all, there are cool little worksheets that you can copy and use to tweak your sock knitting to fit just right, using a variety of different toes and heels. Anyway, as a public service, I thought I should spread around that it's up for presale on Amazon, so have at! Toe Up!

So proud of my girl!!

2009-05-19T18:53:00.002-04:00

Emma has become quite the spinner already! Here she is holding the yarn she spun over the weekend. She took it to school to show her class yesterday, and she said she explained to them about drafting and plying and the whole bit.

Since she's already threatening to hog my beloved Victoria (she tried the Lendrum but prefers double treadle- my Lendrum is an ST) I'm getting her a little double treadle Babe Pinkie of her own (hey the price is right and she doesn't need anything fancy yet. Plus we can paint it red, which she absolutely wants to do).

As for me, I'm back to a fairly heavy load. I'm reknitting a sweater I designed for the fall issue of Vogue Knitting (the yarn company wants a copy for their booth at TNNA), plus doing a sweater for another yarn company, one for Knit n' Style, and copious amounts of tech editing to do before TNNA in a few weeks.

Emma's First Yarn!!

2009-05-16T20:13:00.000-04:00

Emma asked to learn to spin today... so I gave her a quick lesson on the wheel. This is the result-- better than my first try, that's for sure! She's totally into it now- I'm so excited!!

Knitting in the Sun

2009-05-12T08:01:00.003-04:00

Kristi Porter's new book Knitting in the Sun just came out, and it features a project I designed. Behold!

Kristi wanted each pattern to be named for a favorite sunny place, and for me that has to be Ludington-- the perfect combination of beachy goodness, ice cream, and quaint atmosphere. The top is done in a smocking pattern at the top and stockinette below, with a hemmed bottom and a casing at the upper edge with elastic to avoid any unfortunate wardrobe accidents. The pattern is sized from 30-54" bust. I knit the sample in Nashua Handknits Cilantro, which I love for being a pretty stretchy cotton blend-- perfect for something like this where you want some stretch up top.

Big Relief

2009-05-11T17:51:00.003-04:00

Been too busy to even breathe lately, but everything is finally settling down. Doing massive amounts of tech edits plus 1-2 sweaters per week was really a lot! I spent the weekend messing around with my spinning wheel though, and am looking forward to more reasonable days ahead!

So here's the spinny goodness (since the knitting can't be shown yet!)

Some 2 ply Masham I spun on my Lendrum. One of my first tries with a longwool and I liked it!

Some Merino/Seacell blend, plied with rayon sewing thread to make it wavy. Looks like mermaid hair to me.

Summer issue of Love of Knitting

2009-04-09T08:50:00.003-04:00

Is out! I have 2 designs in this issue (my friend Jae has 2 as well), and I wrote a little article on Jae's best tips for knitting lace (she knows all). This issue has quite a few lace projects, so if that's your thing-- have at!

Happy Blogiversary to Me

2009-04-04T21:07:00.003-04:00

4 years today! I'm surprised I've kept it up (though I admit I haven't been too good about that lately).

Finished the second Knit Simple sweater and cranking through several projects at once. It's a little (okay a lot) draining but the light at the end of the tunnel is starting to appear (I hope!) I'm really excited to be doing something for Vogue Knitting- it's my first time.

I've been working crazy hours lately (12+ per day, 7 days a week) so everything else is kind of falling by the wayside. Need to get caught up and work on my bellydance costume one of these days! (I'll admit it-- it's just a bunch of cut out pieces of fabric so far).

The past 5 weeks or so

2009-03-28T10:46:00.004-04:00

Yes, I've been busy. You'll be seeing a lot of me this fall, it seems. :)

Brief Interlude

2009-03-17T11:32:00.004-04:00

After knitting up four new designs for Mission Falls in the past 3 1/2 weeks (new world's record for me, especially because 2 of them were in DK weight, 2 had cables, 1 had colorwork....) I'm enjoying my new baby, a Louet Victoria (barter is not dead, baby!)

So here's what I found on my porch yesterday morning....

Opened up (so small! so compact!!)

And after a little spin.

I've been trying (somewhat lumpily) to learn to spin long draw-- so that's a bit of Polypay so spun. (I've also been trying to sample as many different fibers as possible--so far my absolute favorites are BFL, Merino, and Pygora--lots more in the stash still to try though!)

For the rest of the day, serious paperwork is in order (with perhaps a bit more spinning). Tomorrow is my birthday so I'm going to try to have a relaxing day, but that might not be possible-- lots more designs due in the next few weeks!

New design in Knit n' Style!

2009-03-10T15:18:00.004-04:00

The preview for the June 2009 issue of Knit n' Style is up, with my wrap! This one was slated to appear in the TNNA fashion show back in January, though since I wasn't there I can't be sure that it actually was.

Issue comes out later this month.

Keeping On

2009-03-03T21:44:00.002-05:00

Nothing for show and tell today-- busy on things that are Yet To Be Revealed. Mostly a big pile o' designs for Mission Falls, a late addition for Nashua, and some magazine stuff. I've also been working on editing some designs by a certain lovely designer that many know for her sock-related goodness (though she does a mean sweater too!) who is working on a book. In general, the usual around here.

The main thing I need to do once this latest pile is on its way is carve out some more time to work on my costumes for the impending bellydance performance! The pile of fabric, beads, and whatnot is mocking me. Practicing the dances a bit more wouldn't hurt either! Fortunately my tap costume is a readymade deal, so no sewing needed there.

Funny comment from Emma, whom I had to drag to bellydance this week (we meet at a high school). She went to the bathroom, and when she came back she complained that the restroom was "infested with teens."

The Intentional Spinner

2009-02-19T21:02:00.002-05:00

I picked up the new book The Intentional Spinner on my way home from tap tonight. I've heard nothing but good things, and after a quick flip-through at Barnes and Noble I knew I had to have it. I managed a little spinning this week (finished a bobbin of BFL), but the main event has been finishing design samples and tech editing lately!

Speaking of which, in the past couple weeks I've knit a design for Yarn Forward (I really love this magazine-- so glad you can find it here now! I've always been as much about articles as designs in knitting magazines) and one for Louet. Right now I'm in the midst of a pile for Mission Falls (so glad I love to knit with 1824 wool!)

The edits for the next (summer) issue of Love of Knitting (comes out in April) are just wrapped up too. If you love lace, you will love this issue! There are other things, of course, and some kid and home items, but the major focus is lace. My friend Jae has 2 nice designs in it, plus 2 from me as well.

Spring issue of Love of Knitting is out!

2009-02-10T16:34:00.006-05:00

The Spring issue of Fons & Porter's Love of Knitting is out, and I finally got to see the finished product today. Yes, I did do a design for this issue (see below), but more importantly...

Yes, I love this! Tedious though it sometimes is, I love technical editing. I feel fortunate to get so many opportunities to do so (hoping to work on another book sometime soon!)

Speaking of loving to do things, the designing is fun too, of course! Here's the sweater (in SWTC Therapi, with all the goodness of jade--still don't get how they do that!):

Super simple, knit in the round, soft, wonderful yarn.

Now back to work!

Loomy Goodness

2009-02-07T18:24:00.002-05:00

Look what I got! It's used, but nice- it's a Beka 20" rigid heddle loom. I made an attempt at trying it out this morning before getting back to real work. I used a bit of SWTC Terra for the warp, and scraps of Noro Silk Garden for the weft. Looks weird, but good practice.

Nashua Handknits Spring pattern books!!

2009-01-28T20:46:00.005-05:00

Today I received my copies of the new Spring/Summer pattern books from Nashua Handknits. This time around, I did two designs.

This is the first one, in Nashua Handknits Cilantro (the most springiest bounciest cotton yarn ever) from the North American Designer Collection No. 8 book. I'm especially excited about this one because it has my signature on the photo page (yes, I get excited easily- deal with it).

The is the other, from the Natural Style book. It's in Nashua Ecologie Wool, which I also love for the texture.

Not exactly knitting related...

2009-01-27T16:59:00.003-05:00

Been REALLY busy lately (cranking out a sweater a week since Thanksgiving, I think, plus edits) so not much to share that's shareable... however, the Hubbo did make a nice cake for Emma's birthday party this past weekend.

(The theme was Littlest Pet Shop)

More stuff is coming down the line soon-- be on the lookout for the next (2nd) issue of Fons & Porter's Love of Knitting in the next few weeks. This is the first one I worked on as tech editor, plus I have a design in it as well.

New design in Knit n' Style

2009-01-14T10:04:00.003-05:00

Rose Lace Jacket for little girls, in SWTC/Vickie Howell Collection Love, in the new April 2009 issue (preview up now, issue out later this month).

New design in Creative Knitting

2009-01-08T20:36:00.003-05:00

My Vacation Skirt, in SWTC Pure, is in the March 2009 issue (comes out later this month, preview is up now).

Unexpected Side

2009-01-03T21:39:00.002-05:00

People who know me know that I'm not the most, shall we say, demonstrative person. I don't cry at movies, I don't get choked up at weddings-- you get the idea. However, that's not to say that I don't have a secret sappy side. Check out the last page of the new (winter) Knit Simple to see what I mean.

New year, new yarn

2009-01-01T18:11:00.003-05:00

Last night I finished plying my very first handspun sock yarn! It's 488 yards of superwash merino, from a Lorna's Laces top. I think it turned out pretty well!

Handspun Goodness

2008-12-29T13:53:00.001-05:00

Finished my scarf! 8 ounces of handspun Blue Faced Leicester put to good use.

Daily Chum Advent Calendar

2008-12-18T10:19:00.001-05:00

Hey! My sushi pattern is featured today in the Lime and Violet Daily Chum Advent Calendar.

Socks a la Carte!

2008-12-17T21:25:00.003-05:00

It must be "books I tech edited arrive at my house" week, because another just came today-- Socks a la Carte. It's funny that it should come out now, because last December I was busy talking to Jonelle and Kat at SWTC about the stitch patterns and working out the format, style, and checking them all for accuracy. The cool thing about this book is it allows you to mix and match sock cuff, leg, and foot designs (with numerous types of heels and toes) with fun split pages. Also, it's a spiral bound hardcover with a nice elastic strap to hold it closed (like the Handy Book of Patterns) which I LOVE. I could give myself a headache thinking about the possible combinations of sock patterns! It's a bigger book than I imagined, really a nice one. (Plus, as a bonus, the acknowledgments state that I rock. But we already knew that, right?)

10 lbs

2008-12-12T20:45:00.002-05:00

Did a little swapping on Ravelry (unloaded some Lion Brand stuff I didn't want) and made that last purchase to achieve Loopy Groupie status, both of which resulted in more spinning fiber for me! A quick check on my stash page reveals I am up to 10 lbs of unspun fiber-- finally, worthy of the word "stash". I just started a new spinning project. I'm determined to turn one of the blobs of Lorna's Laces superwash merino top into a pair of socks.

In work news, I have many, many sweaters to knit! I was a good girl today though and finished a front (and did a pile of edits) so I'm off to spin until bedtime!

Jelly Yarns Book

2008-12-08T14:59:00.001-05:00

I received this book in the mail today. This past summer I did the tech editing for the knitting patterns in it. I have to say, it's a really cute book! When I had the box of samples at home, my 8 year-old daughter went nuts for them, so I think the designers really have the market pegged-- the book is meant for girls to use to make the projects themselves and learn to knit and crochet. Since working with Jelly Yarn isn't quite the same as working with "regular" yarn, lots of helpful tips are included. The instructions are clear and the projects are fun-- my favorites are the dog collar and leash set and the jump rope. The best part? Jelly Yarn comes in glow in the dark and metallic colors which I think is too cool! Check it out here.

Touch the spindle, touch it I say!

2008-12-05T08:09:00.000-05:00

I got one of those quill spindle attachments for my Lendrum. It's got 3 ratios, and 2 of them are really high so I could spin some serious cotton on them, I think! I tested it out with some Corriedale, and I only poked myself once. I think it's a good thing I have the single treadle, because I could sit sideways and not have this huge stabby metal thing pointing right at me!

Spinny goodness, and yes, I can still use my spindle

2008-12-01T17:07:00.003-05:00

Finished plying a nice blob of Lorna's Laces merino top in Black Purl. It turned out soft and smooshy, and I love the colors!

After another nice trip to the Spinning Loft with Sonya (and this time Miranda and Nicole as well) I picked up some more fiber, plus a free sample of organic merino which I tried on my Golding spindle. (Much discussion had ensued regarding the wiseness of keeping up on spindling after news of Miranda's wheel breakage, so I was inspired to take heed).

(The other spindle has some purplish red bamboo/merino blend on it that's been lying around).

New Creative Knitting

2008-11-25T16:59:00.002-05:00

The January 09 issue comes out today, with my market bag pattern!

Pygora is Love

2008-11-19T08:43:00.002-05:00

Oh yes.

New Knit n' Style

2008-11-13T14:01:00.005-05:00

The mailman brought the new issue of Knit n' Style today (February 2009) with my sweater design in Aslan Trends Artesanal, a yarn I've been working with a lot lately! I'm especially proud of this one because it's my first design in Knit n' Style to be under my own name, rather than under the yarn company with my name all little at the end of the pattern-- meaning, I did it directly for Knit n' Style, not for a yarn company who then placed it in the magazine (this was special in itself as I had to be invited to meet with the editor in person to submit). I have a design in 5 of the 6 issues for 2009-- right now I'm knitting the third one as it's due in a few weeks.

Here it is:

The collar is convertible-- if you unbutton it, it can be worn as a regular collar rather than a turtleneck.

Edited to add: link to magazine pic

Silk Garden Socks

2008-11-09T09:42:00.004-05:00

Finally finished these the other day! Now if I can manage to finish the other pair that's been on the needles for far too long, I'll be all set. Of course, I've got a mountain of design projects to work on, so we'll see how long it takes!

Yesterday I FINALLY got to go to The Spinning Loft, which I've been meaning to go to for AGES. Sonya, Miranda, Dana and I headed out and partook of some lovely fibers (Sonya is a recent but intense convert to spinning. I suspect it won't be long before she gives in and gets a wheel). I got a few different things (all small amounts, just to play with)-- mohair locks, silk, angora, and some really gorgeous Pygora that I already started spinning on my wheel. I also got 4 oz of undyed superwash merino fiber that will someday become socks.

One more lovely day of messing around, then tomorrow it's back to work-- I've got some edits to finish, new designs to start knitting, patterns to write up and submissions that need to be sketched up and swatched. (I know, what an awful job I have, right?)

Busy weekend

2008-11-02T19:18:00.007-05:00

I could sum it up easily... Taco Bell, Halloween candy, Diet Coke, and lots and lots of tech editing for an upcoming Vickie Howell book. I've got some big deadlines coming up midweek, and since Emma will be home Tuesday (plus who knows how long it will take to vote) I wanted to get as much done over the weekend as I could. I'm feeling a bit sluggish from too much time in my favorite working chair (my big comfy chaise, just perfect for knitting or my little lap desk and laptop).

I did start a little project while waiting for Emma at ballet this week-- and it went so fast it's already done! The pattern is Bounce by John Brinegar, free on Ravelry.

It took a little over a half skein of Malabrigo-- not bad. I hadn't done brioche in a long time, and it was a nice break from "work" knitting.

And speaking of books, one I designed a pattern for is up on Amazon-- can't wait to see it! The listing tells what kind of projects are in it-- I did the smocked top.

Attack of the Giraffe Santa

2008-10-30T16:48:00.003-04:00

So Emma's costume is done, per her very specific specifications. She was inspired by the fact that my brother was once a "Wolfman Detective" for Halloween (as in, at the last minute, he put on an old wolfman mask and my mom's trenchcoat) and wanted to come up with an unexpected combo of her own. And here it is... the Giraffe Santa (yes, there is a tail in back!)

Luxury Yarn One Skein Wonders

2008-10-20T11:56:00.004-04:00

This is going to be my friend come knitting-for-holiday-gift time. Lots of cute ideas, and since I tend to buy one skein of fancy yarns (just for a taste) and then don't know what to do with them, this should help! My Blossom Shawl (in Seasilk) is one of the patterns, and I'm proud to say I tech edited the book as well (try not to lynch me if you find an error, we did our best!)

Edited to add: So far it just looks like a couple of the charts had mistakes made when they were redrawn for the book (hey, the people that do the illustrations are not necessarily knitters), but the Storey website has corrected charts you can print out.

Just saying

2008-10-16T08:13:00.003-04:00

One of the books I tech edited (Vickie Howell's latest) is available for presale on Amazon now, and I'm just going to point this out because the book has some really cute designs (and I didn't even design any of them, I just think they're cool). Going through the box of projects while editing I wanted to keep a few, especially a little girl's dress so cute it's worth buying the book just to get that one! It's always a treat to find cute crochet projects, so check it out!

Harry Potter sock yarn

2008-10-10T09:22:00.003-04:00

Had to get some-- I love Harry Potter! I wish the colorways were better though-- but this one was my favorite.

Back to work-- I'm nearly done with another sweater and well into another book edit (the projects in which are soooo cute I can hardly stand it!!)

The joys of messing around

2008-10-03T19:38:00.002-04:00

After finishing one really big project on Wednesday (and in anticipation of the others I still need to take care of) I declared today to be a "saw sharpening" day as Hubbo would say (something from some work seminar he had to go to once). So, in the spirit of not working today, I...
1. Took a 3 mile walk (and it was sunny out- bonus!) Sidenote- I have been REALLY GOOD and worked out every day (except 2 when I was sick) for the past 6 weeks. Yes, I'd like a pat on the back for that one!
2. Had my guilty pleasure lunch, Taco Bell.
3. Knitted (of course!)
4. Went to the library used book sale and scored some bargains for Emma and me
5. Took a nap (oh the delight!) The cats were happy to assist.
6. Watched some Seinfeld episodes on DVD.
7. Looked at bellydancing costumes online to get some ideas for the one I have to make myself.
8. And now, to get out the spinning wheel and spin the last of that neapolitan-colored BFL.

So pretty good day, I'd say.

Cookie-related goodness

2008-10-01T08:35:00.005-04:00

Sunday we had quite the day for Sonya's 40th birthday. She's got lots more pictures up on her blog, but I stole two of them to sum it up...

Yes, a healthy portion of the Detroit Area Knitters piled in (several) cars and drove out to Lansing for the Cookie A. workshops at Threadbear! (A few people are missing from the picture, unfortunately). We had a great day, with the added bonus of a big fancy cake, Chinese takeout, and shopping. I opted for some more spinning fiber (because as if I need yarn) and picked up some more Lorna's Laces:

Hopefully I'll get to spin that soon. I still need to finish plying the pink and brown stuff I got at Rae's to empty my bobbins.

As for today, I'm putting the final touches on a book I've been tech editing, plus a little more unrelated editing, and then I'm plowing on toward a sweater deadline. If I'm lucky I'll get to spend a little time thinking about how to fancy up the bellydancing costume I'm soon to be making...

Also true, I'm afraid

2008-09-25T15:30:00.000-04:00

nataliedee.com

Now maybe I should get back to work, eh?

This is true.

2008-09-22T14:11:00.000-04:00

nataliedee.com

Now to go back to my sweater.

Gasp!

2008-09-16T13:09:00.001-04:00

Oh my yarny god.

What I wouldn't do for an unlimited yarn budget right about now.

Knitterpalooza the 2nd

2008-09-14T21:41:00.003-04:00

We have yet to get the weather to fully cooperate (last year it was unseasonably cold, this year a constant deluge of rain) but hanging out with knitters is always a good time! Unlike some people I opted not to go on the yarn "swim" (can't call it a crawl in that weather!) since they were the shops I can visit any time I want (last year, since we drove all the way out to Lansing, it was a different story!) If the weather had been better I probably would have done a little shopping anyway, but I digress.

It was a great time again, even though I left part of my pattern at home and ended up with a lot of damp stuff (most of all me). Can't wait until next year!

I am so sick of rain!

2008-09-14T18:00:00.001-04:00

Just sayin'.

Knit Simple Holiday Preview is up!

2008-09-11T15:35:00.004-04:00

And I received my contributor copy today! You can see my sweater design here in the preview (the pink girl's sweater) or check out Emma modeling it before I sent it off:

Knitting and Shopping

2008-09-10T17:50:00.003-04:00

Behold a sneak peek of this design, in Louet Bonnie-- I've been working on it in snatches when I need a break from tech editing. Emma approves of the way the yarn works up in "rainbow order" (she does EVERYTHING in rainbow order, and has since she was 3).

Shopping has been another break time activity. The other day I bought a noisy new hip scarf for the bellydancing class I'm starting next week...

And yesterday I got a new Namaste Malibu bag, which I've been coveting.

In the spirit of being less of a lazy slob, I've been making a good effort and getting more exercise lately. I started a power yoga class on Monday (silly me, it's not nearly as easy as regular yoga) and I'm STILL sore. It certainly qualified as a workout though! I've been going for a walk every morning the past few weeks too. Hopefully I can keep it up!

Casual, Elegant Knits

2008-09-07T08:07:00.004-04:00

AP: Well, today the Casual, Elegant Knits Blog Tour makes its stop here. I'm talking with Faina Goberstein, one of the authors and the designer of all of the lovely skirts in the book. Since skirts are something not all of us have knit before, I thought I'd talk to Faina about them.

FG: Amy, I want to thank you for participating in the blog tour. I am thrilled to have this opportunity to tell you about our new book Casual, Elegant Knits.

AP: You're welcome! What inspired you to write this book?

FG: There are many different things that can give you a picture what inspired us. Dawn and I both love clothes that are fashionable and sophisticated. We love to knit and design practical things. Any time we get together, the conversation turns to knitting, new yarns, fashion, new knitting books. In other words, we inspire each other. The theme of the book comes from a reflection of people who live a busy life, care about style and color, like to wear knitted clothes and appreciate how unique they are. We are providing an example of a couple that fits into this profile. You can see they love what they are wearing and they are comfortable in their outfits.

AP: You have two skirts in your book. What do you like about knitting skirts?

FG: I love the flow and softness of a knitted skirt. I have millions of ideas for skirts. I also like to knit in the round and the skirt is one of the projects that can be worked this way. It can be a challenge as well and I love challenges.

AP: What advice can you give knitters who wish to make their own skirts? What types of yarns, stitches, and construction techniques give the best result?

FG: First of all, making a generous 6x6" swatch is hugely important for such a project. Let’s say you are using Stockinette stitch for a straight skirt. You want to take time to try different yarns with different needles until you like the look and the thickness of your fabric. The swatch must be treated in the same way you will be taking care of the finished skirt. After blocking the swatch, calculate your gauge accurately, counting stitches and rows in the middle of the swatch. Stitches at the edge are a bit distorted.
In terms of yarns, I would suggest using not very soft wool. For Little Flirt Skirt I used Cascade 220. This yarn has good enough memory to hold the shape. Good wool allows you to show off the chosen stitch pattern, which should not be overpowering. The pleats of this skirt are well pronounced. If I used a fuzzier yarn, you will not see them that well.

Photo courtesy of Martingale and Company, photographed by Brent Kane.

You can look for a yarn that has a springy characteristic, or some drape. My second skirt in this book is called the Tailored Skirt. My first version of this skirt was made out of Fauve by Louisa Harding. It contains nylon that makes it very stretchy. The skirt was looking great, but it was also on the heavy side. The version that you see in the book is much lighter and the skirt looks more feminine and romantic. So, your readers who are interested in making their own skirt need to become their own designer and find the yarn that works best for them. I would tell them to not be afraid to experiment and not to expect it to be an easy task. It is probably easier for most people to follow the existing pattern.

Photo courtesy of Martingale and Company, photographed by Brent Kane.

AP: What tips can you give for helping knitters end up with a perfect fitting skirt?
FG: I mentioned before about the importance of a correct gauge. Measure yourself carefully and be honest with yourself about the size you choose to knit. It needs to be your size if you want a good fit. Both skirts in the book can be made short or long. Do not try to wear a mini skirt, for example, just because it is in style. It could be that you look much better in a different length. If a skirt fits you well and has a perfect length, it is a winner. Another little secret is to wear an under slip. It prevents that bulging on the back. I hope it was helpful.

FG: Thank you, Amy for having me today on your blog. I hope that your readers will think about making these skirts. I am looking forward to see them on Ravelry.
Now, tell me about what is going on with you. Congratulations on your new job! This is very exciting. Are you going to have time to design?
AP: Don't worry about that! Doing both technical editing and designing are perfect compliments to each other. Right now I'm working on several designs for yarn companies and a couple of magazines too.

FG: Well, good luck to you and thank you again. I am inviting all of your readers to visit with Connie Chang of Physicsknits tomorrow. There is more to see.

Knit on Down!

2008-09-05T13:51:00.006-04:00

I was just thinking about this book this afternoon (and wondering when I would get my copy) when the UPS man came to the door with it! The book is called Knit on Down and I did two designs for it (which I knit soooooo long ago it feels like forever).

Here's the first one, socks in SWTC Tofutsies...

and the other, a top in Berroco Comfort.

All the patterns in the book are top down (or in the case of socks, toe up), and there's stuff for kids and babies as well (though most are women's sweaters). OH- and when I turned the book over I saw both of my designs on the back cover! Yay!!

New magazine

2008-09-05T12:49:00.005-04:00

I got a copy of a brand new knitting magazine today, called Fons & Porter's Love of Knitting. It will be coming out quarterly, and starting with the next issue I will be the technical editor (just got the call the other day)! Nice to have a regular gig, you know?

First Day of School

2008-09-03T08:43:00.003-04:00

And, now 3rd grade begins... click here to see how much she's grown since the first day of Kindergarten.

Casual, Elegant Knits Blog Tour

2008-09-03T08:24:00.002-04:00

As it turns out, I'm a stop on the blog tour for Casual, Elegant Knits, a new book by Faina Goberstein and Dawn Leesman. My stop is this Sunday, here is the whole schedule:

9/4: Colorjoy

9/5: Go Knit in Your Hat

9/6: Fitter Knitter

9/7: frottez!

9/8: Physics Knits

9/9: Marie Grace Designs

9/10: I'm Knitting as Fast as I Can

9/11: Marnie

9/12: Made by Myself

9/13: Terry Ross Designs

9/14: Nephele

9/15: Sheep to Shawl

9/16: Pie Knits

9/17: Domestic Sphere

9/18: Joanne Seiff

9/19: Stylish Knits

Countdown

2008-08-29T13:36:00.004-04:00

I caught myself having my old annual "Ohnoit'salmostthefirstdayofschoolandmyclassroomisn'tready!" panic the other day, and I had to remind myself (again) you aren't a teacher anymore, remember? Oh yeah-- back to school is a GOOD thing now!

Anyway, most of this week was spent getting the kiddo ready for school (she had a back to school fun event thing, going back another day for her class assignment, buying supplies, school clothes, etc). Yesterday we went shopping for new ballet shoes (she's a little hard to fit due to her ski-like super narrow feet) and went in to the yarn store (hey, we were driving past anyway-- I couldn't help it!) It's not my usual place to shop, but they had something irresistable:

Yes, Silk Garden Sock. I'm sure I'll get more next time I get out to Berkley, so don't worry Bridget! (And yes, I bought it even though knitting the Kureyon Sock makes me mad. It's just so pretty that the constant yarn barf and less than soft feel is worth it!! Bonus- the Silk Garden Sock is much softer than the Kureyon (duh), and prettier than the picture reveals).

Design-wise, I started another sweater today (shipped out 2 others earlier this week, one on Monday and one on Wednesday) and continue to chip away at the tech editing pile, though I'm looking forward to being home alone starting after Labor Day-- then I can get so much more done in a day!

Edited to add: I am also a total lucky brat. Sonya, who loves me, gave me a gorgeous skein of Silk Garden Sock that she picked up for me at Have You Any Wool in a different, equally beautiful colorway. I'm not worthy!!

Ravelympic Recap

2008-08-24T22:04:00.003-04:00

Well, my goal for the Ravelympics was to start and finish 2 sweater designs (of the many I have due in the near or immediate future). I almost made it... I finished the first sweater in a matter of days, and did finish the second, though not in time for the "official" cut off, in fact, just about an hour ago. Oh, and I accidentally did a different second sweater than I signed up for. Oops-- guess that means I have a lot going on!

Here's two little peeks, nice and vague so as to not give too much away. One is for the yarn company, the other for a book, and coincidentally they are in the same yarn, Nashua Handknits Cilantro.

Spinny Goodness

2008-08-21T08:28:00.006-04:00

I'm still working on those designs and tech editing, with a little spinning sprinkled in for good measure (and-shock-going to the gym, which is much overdue).

Here's that Corriedale I was talking about (the sproingy stuff), spun and dyed (with food colors and I managed to deliberately get a semisolid color in the end). It's a 3-ply, spun on my wheel.

I ended up with a little less than 100 yds of about DK weight yarn (it was just a little sample o' fleece, after all) so I decided to whip up some really simple wristwarmers with it. I ended up with some yarn left over, so I could have made them a bit longer or made thumb gussets, but that's okay.

The color is a bit more accurate in this picture.

I've also been spinning the pretty BFL I got at Rae's when we went to Lansing a few weeks ago on a mini yarn-crawl. It's working up into more of a heavy worsted. I'm thinking it might end up being a scarf or something for me once I spin the rest-- I'm not sure yet.

Sock

2008-08-15T09:50:00.002-04:00

Finally finished this sock-- I've been working on it a little each week while Emma looks for books in the library. Pinecone likes it, apparently.

I've embarked on my second Ravelympic sweater-- trying to crank out a few quickly to lighten the load on the "yarn to knit" shelf-- 3 sweaters down since July 28th, 2 to go by the end of the month.

As for today, though, I'm going to take care of some smaller editing projects now that the big one is done- then maybe a bit of spinning, perhaps? I got some gorgeous Corriedale from one of the ladies in my knitting group- soft, very springy, and for lack of a better word, fresh. Spins beautifully.

Yay for Mohair

2008-08-13T09:19:00.002-04:00

Why would I say this in summer? Well, because I received my copy of the new pattern book from Nashua Handknits, Mohair 3, with my design in it! The funny thing is that I knit this sweater last summer (they did an early call for Fall designs last year, so I was working on Spring and Fall at the same time). As much as I didn't love knitting mohair with sweaty summer hands, I really love how this sweater turned out. As a bonus, it was featured in an ad, and in the pattern book itself it's on the inside front cover AND the back cover- yay!

In other news, I finished the sweater in Aslan Trends Artesanal for Knit n' Style (for the Feb 09 issue) AND a sweater for Spring 09 for Nashua in the past 11 days. The second was one of my Ravelympics projects and I received my medal last night (I feel like I deserve it-- an adult cardigan in 4 days?!?) Ah, deadlines.

Little peek

2008-08-05T10:42:00.003-04:00

Nothing seems as far away as next spring, but I'm working on designs for it at the moment. Last week I finished my first of 2 for Nashua (little peek above) and I'm currently plowing through one for Knit n' Style, then on to the other Nashua design by the end of the week (plan to cast on Friday night in true Ravelympics style).

I've just about finished another big tech editing job-- just need to double check a few things before I send them off. What a relief!

Slightly deformed

2008-08-01T20:27:00.005-04:00

I haven't spun in a while. The other day I tried finishing up the pink Blue Faced Leicester I bought from Beth at Knit Michigan (finished skein shown above). I'd lost my touch a bit, though, and the last bit I spun was pretty wonky, so the resulting skein is rather on the thick and thin side. The upside is my fingers remember what to do now, so when I dug into the pretty stuff I got at Rae's last weekend, it went much better. I'm going to use spinning that lovely stuff as a motivator to get me through the work I need to finish this weekend, let's see if it works!

Knitting Calendar 2009

2008-07-31T16:57:00.004-04:00

As I mentioned a while back, I had sent in a few little patterns (one from my blog, a couple from Magknits) for consideration in the 2009 Knitting Pattern a Day Calendar. My beloved sushi won me first place and a big fat check, but another delight came today-- my copies of the calendar.

And what should I find on the box? My own little girl! Emma was very impressed with herself!

There's a picture of my sushi on the inside lid too. :)

And a good time was had by all

2008-07-28T08:38:00.005-04:00

Yesterday a group of ladies from my Tuesday night knitting group and I headed out to Lansing for a much-needed yarn shopping adventure. Our first stop was Rae's, which had moved to much larger digs since our last visit in September. I was delighted to see all the spinning stuff that had been added, and bought another spindle (a bit lighter one) and a big wad of very cute Blue Faced Leicester top. After that we moved over to Threadbear, where since it was the dog's birthday we got a piece of cake as well. We stayed there for hours, since there's so much to see, and we all found something we "needed". As for me, I took advantage of the massive amounts of Garnstudio being cleared out at amazing prices (I got 6 balls of purple chunky wool for $2 each, my friend Beth filled a basket with the remaining skeins of pink). On a purple kick, I also picked up skein of Malabrigo Chunky and some Lorna's Laces top in a pretty purple and black color. Lastly I grabbed the Cat Bordhi sock book since I've been meaning to pick that up and try something new, sockwise.

Here's my loot:

Vogue Knitting on the Go

2008-07-18T16:45:00.007-04:00

I received my contributor copies of the 2 upcoming Vogue Knitting on the Go books, Shawls 2 and Grannies today! They aren't quite on bookstore shelves yet, but it won't be too much longer-- you can preorder them on Amazon at least! Personally, I'm a total nut about these cute little books and I'm willing to admit that I own every single one--now 40 in all.

Here's what I did for the books:

Also, I picked up the Fall Knit Simple today too-- while I didn't do a design for this one (have to wait until Holiday for that) I did participate in a little article about what we learned about knitting from our mothers and grandmothers. It was nice to see my contribution followed by "Amy Polcyn, designer" just like it did for Lily Chin, Meg Swansen, and the rest. I'm not worthy!!!

Noro Sock

2008-07-14T16:16:00.003-04:00

Finally finished the toe on this long-suffering sock. Yes, it's a Jaywalker, in Noro Kureyon Sock. As far as the yarn goes, I love the colors (I'm a total nut for Noro colorways) but it's easily tangled and a bit frustrating at times to work with. Hopefully I'll get to its mate soon-- we'll see!

Teensy peek

2008-07-12T17:04:00.002-04:00

Of the sweater I just finished for Aslan Trends in their "Artesanal" yarn. Although I hadn't had the pleasure of working with their yarns before I started designing for them back in December, I must say they are a delight (at least the 3 I've used so far-- Artesanal, Del Cerro, and Glaciar del Cielo). The thing I like most about the Artesanal is how light it is for the yarn weight. I think it would be very nice to wear!

Oh great and glorious UPS man!

2008-07-10T08:37:00.002-04:00

He's paid me a number of visits over the past few weeks, bringing yarn for upcoming design deadlines:

Don't worry, they're not all due at the same time. Now to decide which to start next...

Vacation

2008-07-08T19:43:00.003-04:00

How to knit in the woods...

(at our campsite at P.J. Hoffmaster State Park, between Grand Haven and Muskegon on Lake Michigan)

How to knit at the beach...

(on the beach in Grand Haven, lighthouse and pier in background)

How to knit at an amusement park??

(at the waterpark portion of Michigan's Adventure)

Well, we're back, and with all the knitting time I carved out I finished an entire short sleeve cardigan in SWTC/Vickie Howell Collection Vegas, based on a pattern I was reverse-engineering for Vickie (from the one she knit for herself) before I left (it was so cute, I had to have one!) Granted, I was lazy and didn't bother with the lace panels and only did a top button (again, laziness-- I guess that's the effect of knitting at the beach too much) but it's nice to have made myself something for a change. If you're wondering what it looks like, Vickie is wearing hers here.

We decided to do a little half-assed camping this year (meaning we got most of our meals out, though Hubbo busted out the camp stove and made pancakes every morning) and where else to go but the delightful sandy shores of Lake Michigan? It's got it all-- knitting time (and yarn shopping) for me, frolicking in the lake for Emma, and volleyball for the Hubbo.

We arrived on Wednesday, and not one hour after we arrived a series of terrible storms blew up, with hours and hours of torrential rain, huge hailstones, crazy wind, flooded streets, you name it. After a while we gave up on camping for the night and drove into town to find a hotel room. Being 4th of July week, this was very difficult, but we lucked out and found a place that just got a cancellation. After a dry and pleasant night, we headed back to the campground in the morning to finish unloading the car and set up. At this point (and for the rest of our trip) the weather was totally sunny and gorgeous, though a bit cool that first day (didn't stop Emma from swimming though!)

We beached at the campground, in Grand Haven (about 4 miles away or so) and up in Ludington (about an hour north) for yarn shopping and grandparent-visiting. The crowds in Ludington were the most insane-- we waited in a huge line at House of Flavors for ice cream cones but of course it was worth it-- their ice cream is the best (why wouldn't it be, when the factory is right out back?)

The last day we went to Michigan's Adventure, since our kidlet is a total fearless maniac when it comes to rides. She had a great time, and it was perfect-- close by, cheaper than Cedar Point, and though it's smaller it still had plenty of stuff to do, including a really nice waterpark (that didn't cost extra, what a treat!) Here's a few more pictures...

Now to decide what we're going to do next year (and to get back to work-- 2 more boxes of yarn came today for upcoming design deadlines!!)

Just got back...

2008-07-07T19:49:00.002-04:00

From our little camping trip to Lake Michigan (we spent most of our time at the beach, naturally). I'm pretty sunburnt, mosquito-bitten, and tired, but as soon as I have a good night's sleep in my own bed I'll have pictures and details (and a finished sweater!)

Cracking open the stash

2008-07-02T08:00:00.001-04:00

I just finished a really huge pile of work yesterday-- so to celebrate, I'm going to knit whatever I want for the next few days (shocking, I know!)

Brace yourselves...

Anniversary

2008-06-26T07:46:00.003-04:00

Today is me and the Hubbo's 13th wedding anniversary. We've been together for 18 years and for some reason do everything on a 5-year schedule (started dating in 1990, got married in 1995, had a baby in 2000). A little known fact is that we eloped to Toledo and then went out to breakfast at Big Boy (romantic, no?) But hey, we were young and broke. We did have a casual little reception-esque party a few weeks later-- here's the classic cake-cramming shot:

Yes, I got a little carried away.

Goodies!

2008-06-24T15:12:00.004-04:00

I recently did some pattern writing and grading for J.Knits (not designing, but taking other's sketches and turning them into patterns. To my delight, today I received this lovely package from Julie of J. Knits herself. The funny thing is the package also contained the check I was expecting for my services, but I must say the yarn (and cute tin of knitter's mints) was so engaging that I almost threw the check out with the envelope! Luckily I noticed before it was too late. The yarn is a big fat skein of Superwash Me sock yarn and two skeins of Simply Luxurious, both in the Honolulu colorway (I know what you're thinking-- green? But I just plain like it).

Behold

2008-06-23T18:01:00.002-04:00

I actually get to knit with this. Yes, it's Mariel's Crystals, the Tilli Tomas yarn strung with Swarovski crystals. It is sooooooooo gorgeous. I'm doing a design for Knit n' Style using it, which is great since I don't think my yarn budget would allow for actually buying some myself.

Ballerina

2008-06-19T08:29:00.003-04:00

Emma's first recital was last night-- she did very well!

Sneak peek

2008-06-16T12:35:00.001-04:00

Of one of the designs I did for an upcoming Vogue Knitting on the Go book is here. It's the scarf.

Guess I could blame all the knitting...

2008-06-16T08:54:00.001-04:00

-2

As a 1930s wife, I am
Very Poor (Failure)

Take the test!

Sock Book

2008-06-13T12:26:00.002-04:00

I submitted a sock design for an upcoming sock book, and it was accepted-- yay! I spend so much time knitting sweaters, it'll be nice to have to knit a pair of socks (since they're my favorite and all).

Back to finishing up a little paperwork before knit night!