On the Nightstand

Here are a couple of new book purchases I made recently. In Stitches by Amy Butler is exactly what you would expect from Amy Butler. Lots of great photos and project ideas in a pretty, polished format. I like the kimono bathrobe, fabric organizer baskets, and apron patterns. You can also download a free pattern here for a sash with beaded fringe. Threadbared is a collection of funny photos that document craft crazes from decades past. The outfits and projects reminded me of Mortified.

PS I'm just about ready to submit my Elann yarn order and I think I want to knit the cardi in Sangria. Any other colors stand out to anyone?

Next Up

After much contemplation, here is the sweater I plan to knit up next. It's called the Alexi cardigan. I need a good wear-around-the-house cardigan to keep me warm as the temperature in the house is kept at a lower than average 62 degrees. This is a free pattern from Berroco. I haven't quite decided on a yarn yet, but I think I've narrowed it down to a few choices from Elann. I'm leaning toward the Peruvian Sierra Aran, which has lots of good color choices.

Hey Baby

I finally finished the last of my baby projects for my friend's shower, which is this Thanksgiving weekend. There's the kimono sweater, a bib, and a burp cloth. All the patterns are from Mason-Dixon Knitting and were made with either Lion Cotton or Rowan Handknit Cotton.

Winter White

I did all of my seaming at lunchtime yesterday and managed to weave in the ends last night. I'm wearing my new sweater today! Overall, this project was a fun knit. The sweater is incredibly soft and not itchy at all. I was worried that the drop stitches were a little loose, but after blocking, they seem to have eased into themselves a bit more. The yarn was a bit expensive, but the sweater only used seven skeins and it was worth it.

Yoke's On Me

I started the yoke of the sweater on Saturday. All stitches of the front, back, and both sleeves were put on holders until they were completed. Then I joined them all together in the round for the ribbed yoke. After I bind off for the neck, all I have to do is join the sides and sleeves. I'm liking the preliminary looks of this sweater!

A-line Skirt

Here's one of the final projects for my apparel construction class–a simple A-line skirt. I used the Alexander Henry fabric, Mocca. You can't see them very well, but there are two front patch pockets. This pattern was very simple and quick and included the front, back, and facing pieces. The other final project will be a corset and I bought some gorgeous
echino fabric from Etsuko Furuya for that.

Up in Arms

I'm almost halfway through the sleeves. It's dark, gloomy, and very wet outside...great knitting weather! I also spent the weekend sewing an A-line skirt for my apparel construction class. I'll post photos of that later this week.