Socks in The Cities Knit-A-Long

Winners

2008-08-21T09:23:00.002-05:00

Well the Summer Sock contest is over. The winners are

Rebecca A (socks at the beach)
and
Sokk Girl (socks in the garden)

Congrats ladies. Pick up your prize at the store anytime after Saturday August 23.

Thanks for playing.

On a slightly sad note we will be taking a vacation from Socks In The Cities. I'm not sure how long this will be but it seems to be slowing to a very dull roar and we want to revamp it to make it better and more interesting. I know we can do it. But until then keep your eyes on the Yarnery Blog where we will keep you posted on when we will have more knit-alongs.

Thank you to everyone who were a part of this KAL. It was great fun, I met a ton of wonderful people and new friends. See you in the store and at The Yarnery Blog.

Sarah W.

The Promise Blanket Is Done!

2008-08-08T09:11:00.007-05:00

In case you haven't been in the store since Wednesday you should know that The Promise Blanket is complete. And displayed.

Thank you so much to all who created squares, donated yarn, and donated time to seam the blanket up. You all really stepped up (as I knew you would) for a great cause. The Woman's Advocate.

Now for some stats: The Promise Blanket measures 55" x 61" (or approx 4.5 x 5 feet, or 1.39 x 1.54 meters). In these picture (which are pre-blocked) it is on a double bed so you can get an idea of what the size looks like in real life. The Promise Blanket is completely machine washable, however I do recommend you dry it flat.

I must say it turned out better than even I had hoped. It is beautiful and would make a lovely addition to anyone's home. You can see who made what square by visiting our flickr page. Which leads me to the next bit of info... how you can own it.

As you may have read in an email The Yarnery is going to be throwing a birthday celebration on August 16, 2008. At the celebration there will be items for auction such as old Rowan and Alice Starmore books. I'd like to point out that the proceeds for those items will be going to Knitters Without Borders.

But also at the auction will be our Promise Blanket. It will be a silent auction and if you want to be the one who takes it home you just need to be the top dollar amount at the end of the party. And I assure you, it is worth it!! And has been stated before, all of the proceeds for The Promise Blanket auction will be going to Women's Advocate. The WA provides shelter and resources to women and their families who are victims of domestic violence. And should the auction get too rich for your blood you will have the opportunity to give a donation at anytime during the auction. With a donation of $10 or more you will receive a gift from The Yarnery.

So I hope to see all of you at the Birthday Celebration (there will be cake) and I hope to see all of your generousness (is that a word?) shining brightly.

Thanks again. You all did such a wonderful job.

Sarah W.

Knitted Sock Display

2008-08-03T18:46:00.002-05:00

For all you sock fans, below is a message from the MN Knitter's Guild regarding their current display.

Got Socks?
Minnesota Knitters' Guild to display examples of knitted socks in the Textile Center's Community Gallery July 20–Aug 28
Work of the Minnesota Knitters' Guild will be featured in the Community Gallery of the Textile Center of Minnesota. This year, guild members chose to display examples of their knitted socks. The exhibit will be in the main hallway of the Textile Center from July 20 through Aug. 28. The exhibit is free and open to the public.

Promise Blanket Update

2008-07-24T13:13:00.003-05:00

The Promise Blanket is getting done. Thank you so much to all of you who have sent in a square (or two, or three). We will have a lovely throw-sized blanket to make us some good money for the Women's Advocate.

Here's a little preview of some squares:

1. Square 23, 2. Square 28, 3. Square 33, 4. Square 36, 5. Square 14, 6. Square 15, 7. Square 10, 8. Square 9, 9. Square 4

We do have a flickr account now that has some of the squares uploaded so you should click over and see all the pretties. I must admit that being as I have been dragging this blanket home then back to the Yarnery, then home, then (you get it) I've misplaced a few names and yarn info. If you see your square and it has no info let me know asap and I'll get that fixed right up.

I also wanted to let you all know that for the most part the sizes were just right. However, we do have a few squares that are too small to fit nicely into the blanket. Never fear, your work is not for nothing. As soon as the main blanket is done I'm settling in to seem together a smaller (aka baby) blanket. Everyone's hard work will be paying off, I promise.

And a shout out to the New York Knit Wits who sent in seven squares all the way from (you guessed it) New York. Ladies, thank you so much!!

Red Socks

2008-07-19T12:51:00.008-05:00

After reading Lene's Blog this morning, I need stash enhancement. She just makes red socks sound so special. My less-special brown socks are seeming dull. This might be sock envy. I am loving the yarn and the fact that they are "chocolate". Really. That is the colorway. It's the color's name. Chocolate.

Somewhere in my remembering, I think I am supposed to take a photo of my sock on one of my travels this summer. With all of my plans to tend the garden, that seems the furthest and best place that I have been.

The Promise Blanket

2008-07-08T11:33:00.002-05:00

Today marks the official one week countdown to the Promise Blanket Square deadline. So many people have taken the info from the store and now is the time to get those squares in.

Remember that the squares need to be in by July 15, 2008. Hand deliver them or send them. We just want to make sure that they are in this beautiful blanket.

Also, stay tuned for information about how you can have your shot at owning this great blanket... as well as helping a great organization.

Mulberry Hedgerow Socks Started

2008-06-29T23:33:00.002-05:00

It's kind of hard to see them in this photo, but here is the start of my next pair of socks. I'm doing two socks on two circulars, this time starting with cuff down. I used a tubular cast on. This is ShibuiKnits Sock yarn, Mulberry colorway. I'm doing the Hedgerow Sock pattern from Knitter's Review.

June update

2008-06-29T19:24:00.005-05:00

There wasn't much knitting this last week. Summer of socks started and my knitting mojo went on vacation.

I have worked a little on my promise blanket square.

And my knitting mojo may have just come back:

Both yarns are from Twisted Fiber Art, the square in Ariel in the Netherfield colorway and the sock in Playful in the Tonks colorway, which was part of the sock yarn club.

2008-06-28T22:00:00.003-05:00

I have finished my first socks. I took them off to get a picture of them off of my feet, but my cat Sophie decided she liked them. I can't say they were a resounding success. The toe on my second sock turned out a bit tighter and I took the picture in a way to hide my not so great kitchener stitch. I think I need to learn to knit toe up socks. But, I will wear them and start my next pair.

Socks on the Beach

2008-06-23T23:55:00.005-05:00

My Kureyon socks just got back from a trip to the Jersey shore. Here they are cavorting with a couple of rockin' Jersey Boys! We had a lot of fun at the beach and later we hit the Pt. Pleasant boardwalk and rode the Dizzy Dragon and the Choo Choo Train. I actually finished these socks on June 7, but waited to photograph them on my vacation in New Jersey. I started a new pair on the plane and will post a progress photo soon. I'm also hoping to work on a square for the charity afghan.

First Socks

2008-06-21T07:48:00.002-05:00

This is my first pair of socks. I took a class earlier this year and am finally getting around to finish them. I joined this KAL to help give me incentive to finally get them done. I have to move on to the next pair and start using some of the sock stash I have been accumulating. You have permission to give me a hard time if they are not done by the end of June as by the time I figured out how to get this picture in this blog, I am even farther along than the picture shows.

The yarn is Reggia, Design Line by Kaffe Fassett. I used the Knit to Fit pattern by Nancy Lindberg.

I Knit My Square

2008-06-15T11:25:00.002-05:00

I knit up a square following the pattern Sarah linked to - it's a fun pattern, though I didn't do as well with the cast on as I'd have liked:

It's knit with leftover Tess' Designer Yarns, which I used to knit a pair of Jaywalkers.

Seagull Lake Socks

2008-06-13T08:03:00.003-05:00

Now I know I'm not eligible for prizes but my socks have already been traveling.
These are Cascade Sassy Stripes knit on 1 1/2 needles. The pattern is reminding me of a coral snake. Don't know why.

They are sitting next to Seagull Lake all the way up the Gunflint Trail in Minnesota. They had a great time there, they said so.

Happy knitting and summering.

The Promise Blanket

2008-06-05T08:58:00.003-05:00

Dear fellow fiber artists:

The Yarnery is very excited to let you know about The Promise Blanket project. We are asking anyone and everyone to knit a square made of fingering weight superwash sock yarn and send it to us. Then we will sew the squares together into at least one blanket (more if you’re generous) to auction off for charity.
The charity we have chosen is the Women’s Advocates, Inc., which provides shelter and resources for women and their children who are victims of domestic violence. Something that shouldn’t exist, but sadly does. Domestic violence affects too many families and if the proceeds from our project can help even one woman start anew we’ve made a step in the right direction.

Inspired by Socks In The Cities and Knitalong: Celebrating the Tradition of Knitting Together by Larissa Brown and John Martin Brown, we are hoping to create a beautiful blanket knit by people near and far. We will display the blanket(s) in our store and online and hold the auction on Saturday, August 16, 2008. The auction will be open to knitters and non-knitters, with all of the money going to the Women’s Advocates, Inc.

If you would like additional information about the Yarnery, the blanket, or the Women’s Advocate visit yarnery.com for links. If you have any questions please email me at sitckal@gmail.com.

We would appreciate your help in any of the following ways:

A 7 ½ square made of sock yarn (the Knitalong book has a pattern - you can find it in our store or at the library).
Donate any of your left over fingering weight sock yarn to The Yarnery, 840 Grande Ave., St. Paul, MN 55105
Mention our project with a link on your website, blog, store, class, etc.
If you are in the Twin Cities, MN area please join us at The Yarnery on July 20, 2008 from 6:30 - 8:00pm for an “old-fashioned” sewing bee to seam the blanket together.

Thank you for your support and good will.
Sarah W.

When you bring in your square please attach a note with who you are, where you are from and what yarn you used. Thank you.

Under the Wire

2008-05-31T18:32:00.004-05:00

I've been busy with other projects this month, but I did manage to finish a pair of socks (thanks to a bit of movie knitting).

Curious Creek Fibers Serengeti Autumn in New England knit with an Eye of the Partridge heel and toe on US 3 DPNs.

I couldn't resist and started another sock to keep me occupied during the fourth Indiana Jones movie.

Fiesta Yarns Boomerang in Rhubarb.

I've joined the Summer of Socks in an attempt to finish up some of the sock projects I've already started.

Completed Socks for May

2008-05-30T06:51:00.003-05:00

A "springy" pair of anklets for golf and other warm weather activities. I found the pattern online and really enjoyed it despite a few out of sync rows on the first sock. It was the first sock I've made with any sort of pattern and it was a great introduction. The pattern is Nasturtium Anklets by Kristen Kapur which I found on her website http://www.throughtheloops.typepad.com/. I used and OnLite yarn from the Beach Color collection - #942. I really enjoyed using this yarn. It is super soft, behaves well and is just a joy to work with.

Summer Sock Contest

2008-05-26T15:31:00.000-05:00

I have been planning a few ideas for our great KAL. Today I am going to concentrate on getting a contest started.

Spring has sprung and summer is right around the corner. Ball games, graduation parties, vacation and camping are just some of the things in our future. Another great part of summer? Knitting socks. The perfect summer project, sock knitting can be taken just about anywhere. It isn’t so large that it makes you sweat and as we all know socks are just cool!!

So here’s the deal. I want to see your socks en route. Take a picture of your socks in progress on the carousel at Como Zoo, running the rapids in Colorado (don’t endanger yourself for the photo though), at a café in Paris or even sitting by the fire at a nearby state park. Maybe your sock went to cousin Jason’s grad party and ate too much potato salad. Perhaps it is planning to have fun at the family 4th of July picnic. Take a picture. We want to see it!

Truth be told we have all brought along our knitting with no real intention of working on it - only to break it out for just a few rows. This may be the very best part of sock knitting.

This contest will run over the summer. I will keep track of everyone’s posts and the great pictures. I would also like your permission (via an email or a notation on your post) to use any photos on this and our other Yarnery Blog so that all might see the great places we have been and the wonderful socks we have knit.

There will be prize categories. And they will be (drum roll please):

Furthest Traveled Sock

You Brought Your Sock Where?
(most unique spot to find a sock)

Knitter’s Are Everywhere
(get a picture of you and your sock with a fellow knitter you met on your travels)

Best in Show Sock

There will be one prize awarded for each category. The prizes are still in the making but I’m thinking you’ll love them.

The contest will run from today until August 15. Final entries must be posted by midnight, August 15, 2008. You may post as many entries as you would like. Posts without photos will not qualify for prizes but we would like to hear from you anyway.

And just to give you extra incentive: check your email for all of this info and a 10% off coupon.

Last socks of spring

2008-05-26T11:29:00.002-05:00

I finally finished up my Cable Lattice Socks:

These took way longer than they should have - mainly because I knit them about 1/2 to 1" too long on the foot and because I didn't have a ton of knitting time. No problems at all with the pattern or yarn, which is always what you want. I was holding my breath as I finished the toe of the last sock, though, because I only had a couple of yards left at the end. Here's how they look on the foot:

Here are the specifics:

Project Name: Cable Lattice Socks
Designer: Coats Patons
Pattern Source: Knitnet
Yarn: Socks That Rock - Little Bunny Foo Foo Colorway
Date Started: 2/16/08
Date Completed: 5/18/08

And now I'm taking a short break from socks. I'm participating in the Summer of Socks KAL and so I'm going to wait to cast on my next pair until summer officially begins. I'm not trying to compete in the most socks contest since I probably won't knit more than one or two pair over the summer, but it'll be good to start fresh anyway.

Socks in the Garden

2008-05-12T20:46:00.003-05:00

Please forgive the blinding white legs!
I'm slowly, but surely working on my Kureyon socks. I love the colors. My next pair of socks will definitely be two socks on two circs. This is the second pair in a row that I've knit one at a time and both have had slightly tighter gauge on the second sock. Luckily, my left foot is slightly smaller than the right. At least if I knit two at a time, I'll have the same gauge.
On another note, I've decided to resurrect my blog. I'm posting pictures of my garden and sometimes I throw in a little knitting. If you'd like to check it out, it's at www.onspock.blogspot.com

Completed Socks in April

2008-05-01T08:40:00.003-05:00

I forgot! It's May already... but I did finish 2 pairs of socks in April. The first one is from the Rockin' Sock Club's Leafling Socks:

This is the March Mystery Socks from the Ravelry's Sock Knitters Anoynomous KAL: (using Socks That Rock Lightweight in Socktopus colorway)

I think I may be addicted . . .

2008-04-30T07:17:00.004-05:00

My name is Sarah and I am a sock knitting addict. I'm kind of serious. I just learned to knit in December and have since finished 2 and 3/4 pairs of socks. And I already have plans (and materials) for the next 2-3 pair. Yikes! Help!

I am working on some cotton blend ankle socks right now for summer which are fun even though the cotton is a little harder to work with than wool. This is my first lacy pattern (found on Ravelry) and, after some initial hiccups, I am really enjoying it. On the first sock, you can see where I got a little off for a round. I left that weird spot in as a testament to the learning process.

I did finsh my first pair of circular needle, fingering weight socks this month (I LOVE Opal sock yarn). They fit well and I've worn them a few times already. No pictures since I keep forgetting (must write notes to myself . . . ). I will do my best to get some up when this next pair is finished (for next month).

Knitting with the Harlot

2008-04-27T18:44:00.003-05:00

OK, so it's not a finished sock, but this is how much knitting I can get done while the Yarn Harlot was in town.

Rose Garden (my best guess) Handmaiden Casbah (deluxe!) in Crest of the Wave Pattern.

2008-04-25T19:19:00.003-05:00

Hi everyone,

This is my first post and my first KAL so I admit I'm a little nervous.

I finished my first pair of socks using my favorite basic sock pattern (60 stitches, magic loop using a size 1 needle). For a slight variation I used a K4, P1 rib pattern on the sock. It fits really well with a good grip from the rib pattern. The sock yarn is a red, pink, burgundy self-striper with a dash of yellow between the dominant colors. It's been in my stash so long I've lost the ball band. Hopefully, it's a washable wool as that is what I intend to do with it.

Now all I have to do is figure out how to take a picture and I'll be in!

Happy knitting,

Woodydotter

My Lacy Socks

2008-04-18T20:31:00.004-05:00

My second pair this month is a pair of SFS socks. These were made from Opal tan and used four different needle sizes, from 0 to 2. The idea of the pattern was to make them so that they would mold to a soldier's calf better. Their legs are 12" long. That's so they can fit up over boots.

Anyway, a friend modeled them for me, and here they are.

I made these from the Favorite Socks book. I think the pattern is called wavy lace. I made them for an online friend I have known for 10 years. We met in person for the first time and I presented them to her.

The yarn is Smooshie purple. I love working with it. It is so very soft.

She was thrilled with them. She has never had a pair of hand knit socks before.

My first pair!

2008-04-17T23:42:00.005-05:00

I'm "officially" a sock knitter now because I've finished my first PAIR of socks!
I usually have socks in various stages, but never a matching pair. These are actually from my Fargo LYS sock club. The pattern is Leyburn Socks and the yarn was custom dyed by Castle Fibers in the LYS colors.

I enjoyed this pattern. It was easy to memorize yet not boring. Can't wait to wear them!

What a difference a few stitches make

2008-04-06T10:39:00.004-05:00

I finished the first of my cable lattice socks:

They're an excellent example of how self-striping yarn works with stitch count. You knit the leg on 80 stitches and as you can see, you get stripes with that stitch count. Then you do the heel and after you pick up all the stitches on the heel flap, you have 97 stitches. With so many stitches, the colors just fall really randomly. You start decreasing down and you can see when you get in the 80 stitch range, you get some stripes again. But you keep decreasing because the bottom of the foot is now stockinette stitch and so you go down to 75 stitches on the foot. And it stops striping and starts flashing. I know this would really bother some people, but I actually kind of like it. It REALLY reminds me of neopolitan ice cream now:

Back to Socks...

2008-04-05T12:47:00.001-05:00

I'm back to working on my Kureyon Socks. Last night I did the heel and I spent a little of this morning working on the cuff, but I now have to get outside and do some yardwork!. An inch or two more and I'll be working on the second sock. I didn't notice this when I split the skein of yarn, but I didn't plan well for the colors. The second ball is starting over where the first one started, so I won't get all the colors in this sock. On the plus side, for this sock, I started with purple for the toe on ball A and when I got to the heel, ball B was at purple, so my toe and heel match for this sock. I have no idea if this will work the same for the second sock. I do know that the second sock is going to have some colors that the first sock doesn't have, so these will be VERY fraternal twins.

Rainbow Socks

2008-04-04T10:54:00.004-05:00

The sock mojo is back, it appears. After I finished up the Sock Hop socks I cast on right away for these.

I had been meaning to try them out ever since they appeared in Magknits. I was very impressed with the idea of doing something different with self-striping yarn, so I dug in my stash and cast-on. The pro is that it is indeed a cool way to use self-striping yarn. The con is that working short-rows all the time is putzy and annoying. And I seem to get these little bulges in the fabric which is kind of driving me crazy. Though I think blocking or even washing and wearing will get rid of them. It's definitely cool to see wedges of color instead of the same old stripes.

These are the second pair for my husband. I'm thinking of them as "Summer" socks because they make me think of the 4th of July. (Ever wondered why so many countries have red, white and blue in their flags?) Since I finished the "Spring" ones in March, now just two more seasons to go! Good thing his birthday is in December.

The Winner...

2008-04-04T08:48:00.002-05:00

...of a Yarn Harlot Book is

DEEPA!!

Congrats Deepa for answering the questions right, also for making not one, but two posts this month!!

This was a fun contest. And I'm also going to point out that this was a record month for blog posts!! Keep them coming.

Thanks to Rebecca A for blogging about something else that she made with sock yarn... which is going to be part of the next contest, keep your eyes peeled for the next post. (and Rebecca you will be able to re-enter with that same post).

Thanks again and congrats, Deepa. You can pick up the book at the store anytime.

Sarah

March Socks

2008-03-31T23:25:00.004-05:00

For this month's socks I used Trekking XXL (75% new wool, 25% nylon) with Gems on the toe. I have been using 2 circulars for the last few pairs of socks and love it.

I picked up a skein of the new Noro sock yarn from Bella Lana on 4th & Central in Minneapolis and have started working on April's socks. The colors are beautiful but the yarn takes a little getting used to because it is slubby and not as soft as I am used to. I suspect after a wash they will soften.

Dancing the Sock Hop

2008-03-31T21:26:00.004-05:00

What can I say...monogamy pays. I cast on for a sock as soon as I got the fabulous handspun yarn and I refused to be tempted by other projects. Get thee from me, SSS! And so, a couple of days ago, I finished the pair, 7.5" cuffs and all.

Yarn: Sock Hop handspun in In-a-gadda-da-vida
Pattern: Variation of Nancy Bush's Madder Rib. I did a k6, p2, k2, p2 rib over 60 sts.
Needles: 2.5 mm dpns

I love them. They make me think of spring, the strange sight outside the window today notwithstanding.

These are the first of the 3 or 4 or 6 pairs I am knitting the huz for his big birthday this year. I turned the heel on the first sock of his next pair...stay tuned!

My March Projects

2008-03-31T20:42:00.003-05:00

Two big ones on the needles.
I finished my Opal ones two weeks ago as part of my Socks for Soldiers project. I used some Jarwoll Lang for the contrast. These socks are probably on their way to Iraq or Afghanistan by now. This only leaves me about 10 pair behind what I should be doing. I have another pair and a half of soldier socks OTN right now, too. It's a never ending project.

Here they are:

I will post my second project in a day or two, after I have given the socks to my friend. Let's just say I have fallen in love with Smooshie yarn.

Still Plugging Along

2008-03-31T19:31:00.004-05:00

The knitting funk continues. But I have made a little progress on my Twisted Fiber Art Smitten sock. I took it with me to Philly this weekend to work on.

Finally, some socks

2008-03-28T09:02:00.003-05:00

I haven't worked on socks often this year. These are only my second pair for 2008. (The pattern is Simply Cables from the Sockamania KAL.)

The socks look different because I was using a hand-dyed yarn, and knit one sock with one end of the skein, and the other with the opposite end. Very surprising! :

Happy Spring!
limedragon :-: Harriet

Resoleable Socks

2008-03-27T22:00:00.003-05:00

Finally, a finished pair of socks to post. These are the Resoleable Socks from IK's Favorite Socks, a gift for my dad. Ever since I saw a pair of EZ's moccasin socks way back in the early days of blogging, I have liked the idea, but I didn't really love the shape of those socks. So when I saw these, I decided they must be knit. They were actually a pretty boring knit, but they went quickly in worsted weight. At least they looked kind of amusing on my 2 circs - like a fanged sock monster.

I should note that these socks run really large through the ankles which was perfect for my dad, but they were very baggy on my husband, even though their feet are the same size. Knitting these socks reinforced why I think toe-up is a better idea. I first did the whole toe in the dark brown yarn. After I finished the first, I weighed the remaining dark brown yarn and figured I had enough. Wrong. I ran out with about an inch to go on the second toe. So I ripped the first one, deciding to leave a few rows of dark around the full circumference. It was laziness really. I had already knit the first toe twice because the first time came out too pointy. I reknit doing the last couple round of decreases without a plain row in between, and grafted as soon as I got down to 12 sts on ea needle. Third time's a charm! At least Dad is happy with them, and as it happens I finished them just in time for his spontaneous visit.

Not socks, but...

2008-03-23T15:35:00.006-05:00

I am working on something made of sock yarn. My current pair of socks are on hold, because I started this 12 pointed Celestine star as a birthday present for my nephew Michael. I was making good progress until the last point. When you get to this point, you stuff the star and then knit the final point. It isn't so easy knitting it once it is stuffed. I've been procrastinating and the last point has taken me most of the last two weeks. Otherwise, this is a very fun little pattern. I'm using some Opal from my stash - I thought these colors looked good for a little kid. It is a free pattern on the Berrocco website.
http://www.berroco.com/exclusives/celestine_sox/celestine_sox.html

In the meantime, while procrastinating, I decided to knit a bib based on the Mason Dixon knitting book pattern. I went out to buy some Sugar'n Cream and they had some really nice colors. I've finished a bib that I'll send off with the Celestine for Michael, and I think I'll knit a few more bibs - one for a friend who just had a baby and a few more to keep on hand for future babies. This one is made with color "Swimming Pool". I really like how it turned out. My boyfriend had a great idea - he thinks it needs a little goldfish on it. Does anyone know where I can get some little fabric goldfish to sew onto the bib?

Rebecca [becbec on Ravelry]

I have sock ADD

2008-03-19T23:36:00.002-05:00

I am working on too many things and not finishing anything.

My main thing that I tried to finish in February (unsuccessfully) was weaving in the ends of a pair of colorwork socks knit in cotton. I figured out that there are 44 ends total, and I am still less than half done. Not too crazy about weaving in ends in the first place, but especially not in cotton. I have dragged this out for way too long, and am determined to finish.

Also working on the heel of another sock and have one sock of a pair left to finish. I really, really want to start a new pair. Maybe it's spring fever or something.

I will post a picture or pictures if I ever manage to finish any of this crop.

These Socks Left The Cities

2008-03-18T22:10:00.002-05:00

And went to North Dakota! I used the basic sock pattern from the Yarn Harlot, which is pretty much my standard sock pattern these days. This was the first time, though, that I turned a heel without actually consulting some other pattern for detailed steps. I feel so liberated!

I have no idea what this self-striping yarn is. I bought in on a trip to Arizona this winter, and I thought it would simmer in my stash for a long time. Instead, I ended up bringing it with me on a business trip, and I hastily tore the label off of it and misplaced it. At any rate, I'm not usually a fan of self-striping yarn, but this one really fit the recipient.

And yeah, I suppose I could have made them look the same, but when I use self-striping yarn, I prefer to make each sock look a little different. I like seeing how each part of the sock knits up differently. It's a good thing I prefer that difference, too, since the yarn was actually broken and knotted together, with a big chunk of the pattern missing.

I think these socks turned out okay. I made them for my mother, for her 75th birthday. Her first pair of handknit socks. When I make handknits for other people, I like spending my knitting time thinking of that person and what they mean to me. I enjoyed making these socks, and thinking of my mother, how she likes to quilt, and how even though I don't quilt, we share this broader connection to hand made gifts. Hopefully, she'll like them as much as I enjoyed making them for her.

First Post!

2008-03-17T11:39:00.002-05:00

Sharon R. here with my first socks posted. For a long time I wondered what was so great about knitting socks, even after making a couple of pair. It just seemed to take so long. Then a couple of months ago I decided to try it with 2 circular needles - another thing I never understood the appeal of, because I'm quite comfortable with double points. But I had a trip coming up and I liked the idea of being able to knit socks on the airplane, so I gave it another try. Wow, socks go so much more quickly with 2 circulars. I am now hooked.

Here's my latest finished pair, made with Taos (not really a sock yarn). These are "house socks" for my sister whose feet are always cold. I used a pattern from Sensational Knitted Socks with a baby cable rib. She loves them!

Zombie Attack!

2008-03-16T21:10:00.002-05:00

I'm doing Sock Madness but I don't think I'm going to go very far. It's a tournament to complete a pair of socks with everyone using the same pattern. The first pattern is called Zombies and I don't think I'll make it past the first round because some people have completed pairs and I have this:

It's still kind of fun and I love patterns that include dropped stitches because it feels like you're doing something "against the rules" a lot. Every time is like a little knitting rebellion, like setting down a project in the middle of a row.

Hello!

2008-03-15T09:32:00.003-05:00

Hi - this is my very first post on this blog. My name is Christine and I live in Maple Grove, MN. I've been lurking on this blog for a few months and finally emailed Sarah to join the KAL. I'm on Ravelry a lot and has joined some of the KALs there. I suffer from SSS and have 3 completed socks (singles!!) plus 3 socks on needles that are hidden in a basket behind the couch. Currently, I have 3 other socks I'm "actively" working on this month. I knit my socks using 2 cirs so you can imagine how many needles I have! I recently found Hiya Hiya needles, which is 1/2 the price of the Addi's, but Addi's are still my favorite. I've been using the Hiya, as needed, as stitch holders! These are the 3 socks I'm currently working on and hope that one of them will be completed before the end of this month!

1. Annetrelac by Sandle Beadle (Interweave Holiday 2007 Issue) using Koigu Multi and Koigu Teal Blue.

2. Mystery Sock from Ravelry (clues are posted weekly). Yarn is Socks That Rock Lightweight in Socktopus from Blue Moon Fiber Arts.

3. Nine to Five Socks by Nicole Hindes, using Dream In Color Smooshy - Cloud Jungle

I hope to post back before the end of the month of my completed socks! I also have a knitting blog at http://christinepetterson.typepad.com/knitting if you would like to visit...

Did I Show You My Potato?

2008-03-15T07:59:00.006-05:00

Not much finishing going on here. I am putting heels in, getting some toes in, etc. and being mostly distracted by pre-knitting processing for a Kauni (buying needles in the correct size, length, reading the pattern, considering cast-on methods, reading the pattern, looking at the yarn, etc.).

And, I am also distracted by attempts to naalbind. This is not new, it is re-learning. You can re-teach an old dog.

During all this flaggle-babble around the house, My Husband found this heart-shaped potato at our LGS. Aaaaw.

Starting a New Pair

2008-03-13T18:39:00.003-05:00

I am not knitting these up very quickly, but I did start a new pair of socks:

The pattern is called "Cable Lattice Socks" from an old issue of Knitnet. It's a fairly simple but still interesting to knit pattern. The yarn is Socks That Rock in the Little Bunny Foo Foo colorway. Totally loving this yarn again.

Pretty soon it'll be time to put away the socks and take out the sandals!!

Finished Yarn Harlot Socks

2008-03-12T21:19:00.005-05:00

Here they are, my first Yarn Harlot basic recipe socks in Austermann Step. The photos aren't the greatest, but good enough to show that they're good, basic socks in a fun yarn. The best thing about this pattern/recipe might be that it went really fast. I finished these in a couple of weeks, granted with some airport and plane time, still spending time on other projects. My second sock usually languishes for a long time when I tire of the stitch pattern. I guess I don't tire of plain old stockinette. Back to basics.

I followed the recipe to a T, except adjusting length, and I think I'll make a couple of modifications next time. I might do a few more stitches or use bigger needles, if I use this yarn again. I think I knit a little more tightly than our dear Harlot. You can sort of see in these pics that they're stretching a little too much, and almost looking ribbed. I like tight socks, but to a point. I'll also decrease in every row as I near the end to make them a little less pointy.

I'd like to try them out in a different yarn, maybe a little thicker and not so smooth, to see how the results might change. I'll definitely try using this as a foundation for socks with different stitches.

Ultimately, my opinion is that the Yarn Harlot's basic sock recipe is just what she says it is: basic and a good starting place for lots of sock knitting fun.

Finally done!

2008-03-09T10:08:00.001-05:00

Redux
Originally uploaded by blacksheepknits

These are the Sock Wars II scar socks done as anklets. Yarn is Nashua Handknits Creative Focus on size 3 dpns. These only took about 4 months to knit, LOL! They were a "when I can squeeze in a stitch or two" project, so I expected them to take awhile. I am still thrilled to be done with them and now I can concentrate on my husband's socks in Noro Kureyon Sock. :)

Hello from a New Knitter!

2008-03-05T08:29:00.002-06:00

Hello! This is my first post and I just wanted to introduce myself. My name is Sarah and I just finished my very first knitting class at the Yarnery. It went so well, that I ended up working on my first ever pair of socks for the last few sessions. I don't have pictures right now, but will post them soon. They are a simple ribbed pattern using DPNs and I just started the decreases for the toe last night. I made a few mistakes along the way, but it's all part of the learning process, right? Anyway, I am enjoying seeing all of the wonderful socks that everyone here has made and am making plans already for my next pair. I am open to suggestions on a good "second pair" pattern so please let me know what your favorites are. Thanks!!

Makin' sock yarn

2008-03-03T11:09:00.002-06:00

In the last 6 weeks I've knit two pairs of socks-- and have learned how to spin sock yarn! Spinning is terribly addicting, and I wouldn't recommend it if you want your knitting time to completely dissapear.

On the left is a pair of toe-up Jitterbug socks. Here I tried Charlene Schurch's reverse heel flap. I should have started about an inch sooner-- right where the arch begins.

On the right is a pair of house/slipper socks. I knit the soles first with a dk/worsted handspun on US 3s, then I knit the instep from the toe and attached the sides as I went with another hanspun yarn on US 2s. Since the yarn was from my second & third week of spinning, it was a lumpy/bumpy knitting experience! They're incredibly warm, and great to wear in the winter on hardwood floors.

Here's some of the superwash sock yarn I've spun this month. I'm thinking there just isn't time to knit all of this up-- so I might just have to give some to friends! :)

February Socks

2008-02-29T23:29:00.002-06:00

I can't believe it's already the end of the month! I did finish up a pair of socks this month:

Project Name: Monkey Socks
Designer: Cookie A.
Pattern Source: Knitty
Yarn: Wollmeise - Maria's Deepest Purple colorway

I love them. This was a fun but not too difficult to knit pattern. I highly recommend it! Here's the obligatory sole-to=sole pose:

I started another pair of socks, but at this rate, I don't think I'll finish them in March.

The Knitting Mom's Complaint

2008-02-29T23:08:00.007-06:00

...is that she has no time (or energy). In the BC (Before Child) era, I could knit a pair of socks in a week. Honest. Now if I can eke out a single sock in a month it's a ruddy miracle. So, it is with great pride that I present...

A PAIR of socks.

These were knit with Austermann Step, a gift/prize from Deb, who knit those fabulous, contest-winning socks the first month of the KAL. They were intended for my husband- for his birthday in December, then for Christmas. They were finally given to him on Valentine's Day.

My sock mojo returned somewhat, and the sock in progress with handspun yarn that you see here:

is now ready for the toes to be grafted. I'm really hoping to knit its mate in March.

And yeah, still entertaining the crazy notion of knitting my husband 3 or 4 or perhaps 6 pairs of socks for his milestone birthday this year. Hey, a girl can dream.

Think spring

2008-02-29T17:45:00.002-06:00

Here are my latest socks. I used Pagewood Farms hand dyed yarn in "crayons" on size 2 circulars. The pattern I used is called openwork rib (rnds 1,2, 3 K2, P2, rnd 4 YO, ssk, P2) from "Sensational Knitted Socks." I can't get enough of this yarn although these colors are a pit too pastel for me. Fun to knit. Happy leap year!

Harlot Socks

2008-02-29T09:15:00.003-06:00

I couldn't be more excited that the Yarn Harlot is coming to town! Especially since I missed her last time. : ( I finally got a copy of her Knitting Rules, and I want to try her basic sock recipe. I need some easy socks for when I need a little mindless, therapuetic knitting. I always covet those basic socks in fabulous yarns on her blog. So my questions for you all are: Have you used her sock recipe? Will you post pictures and comments? Does anyone want to do a Harlot KAL leading up to April 10? Thanks! (And thanks to Sarah W for nudging me to post this!)

Times, They Are A Changin'

2008-02-28T10:14:00.003-06:00

Ok, so I took February off... unofficially. But I'm back now with some changes that I need to report.

First thing. Yahoo as a mail server kind of stinks as I was getting SPAM out the wazoo so I have gotten a new email account at gmail and it goes something like this:

sitckal@gmail.com

Please use this email when corresponding with me from now on. Also, please add it to your list of incoming emails so that I don't get thrown into junk mail boxes across the state.

Also, another change is that I'm going to make you work a little harder to win prizes from now on. Not that knitting isn't work, but I want to see all of you and what you are up to (this includes people that I haven't seen, heard from, or have posted!!). The slate is clean, past winners are eligible. That said, here is our first new contest!

The Harlot is coming. I'm sure hoping that all of you who wanted a ticket got one because I do believe we are out. However, I am offering up one of her new books as the prize to this contest.

First, read the following questions and send me an email with the answers. The second part of this contest (and is a must to be entered) is to make a post on this site. The post does not have to be about socks (although, if it is more power to us) and does not need any photos (although if you have some, post them). But it must contain knitting content of some sort.

The deadline for this contest is Friday, March 21, 2008 at midnight (CST). So there is plenty of time to get the questions answered and formulate a post. C'mon, I know you all can do it!!

Here are the questions:

1. About which local knitting artist and Yarnery teacher has the Yarn Harlot asked, "Who wants to try and bury her house?"

2. The Yarn Harlot has been here before. On what date was she here and where did she fly in from?

3. A song was sung to welcome the Yarn Harlot to our lovely city. What was the song, who sang it and what two languages was it sung in?

4. When the Harlot goes on tour what knitting project does she bring to get pictures of her fans with?

So let's go people, email me right quick and I promise we will have some fun. See you at the Harlot.

BMFA Mystic Kelp Socks

2008-02-26T12:13:00.002-06:00

BMFA_MKf
Originally uploaded by gloamingorchid

Yay! I finished a pair of socks!! (Only mumblemumble to go.)

BMFA Socks That Rock heavy weight in Mystic Kelp.

I used reverse linen stitch on the heel, and I love the way it shows off the colors.

Ravelry ID: GloamingOrchid for more photos.
Blog: InkyOrchid

Ragg Socks

2008-02-26T05:55:00.004-06:00

Since mid-November, I have been laying around (well, not really) reading about knitting in all forms--books, magazines, blogs--whatever I can think of post hand surgery and recovery con hand therapy. The first 7 stitches that I tried after surgery, I broke out in an exhausted sweat. With a great team of cheerleaders, I have been knitting a bit. Finally.

Some time in January, I finished the toes (really, just the toes) on these socks for My Husband. The weaving in with ends was too difficult at the time I finished knitting them, so I waited until I was able to safely maneuver a tapestry needle.

I am also working on Fair Isle socks from Sarah Dallas. I knit the cuff (patern part) before surgery predicting plain knitting needed with bigger needles.
I have just started the second cuff . . .

Heather helped me make this choice at The Yarnery. She was smart about helping me choose something that I would be able to knit as well as love when they are done!

Peacock Socks

2008-02-24T10:03:00.003-06:00

A couple of years ago, I gave my friend a pair of knitted socks for her birthday. This year in her holiday card, she asked if I had a pair of knitted size 9 socks lying around...well, I didn't have an extra pair lying about, so I knitted her the 'peacock' socks. Happy Birthday Rose (you'll have to wait until October).

Finished Rainbow Socks

2008-02-19T22:32:00.004-06:00

These socks are for my son who picked out "rainbow yarn" this summer. Thanks to Ravelry, I discovered that the colorway knits up more red than I expected. To keep my blue-loving child happy I added in blue heel, toe and cuff.

The rainbow yarn is Brown Sheep Wildfoote in Rock and Roll and the blue is from a 50g ball of Trekking I bought a few years ago. Amazingly, the blues matched really well.

Kureyon Socks WIP

2008-02-19T21:58:00.005-06:00

Here are my current WIP socks. I'm pretty sure these won't be done by the end of the month. I have gotten side-tracked on a new project:) This is one skein of Noro Kureyon Sock yarn that I split into two balls so that I could alternate rows with two different parts of the colorway. I like how these are turning out. They are knit on US 1 circulars, K1P1 rib on the instep and I'm using Cat Bordhi's riverbed architecture. I've heard a lot of negative comments about this yarn, but I really like it. It is thick/thin and the thin parts are REALLY thin, but once it is knit up, I don't notice the thin parts. This yarn probably isn't for everyone, but it feels fine to me.

February Socks

2008-02-16T20:52:00.003-06:00

I finished this pair last night. I used my coupon from January and bought this Step yarn. I had never used before. I call these my Pippi Longstocking stockings, since I think these are bright ones she might wear. They are deliberately mismatched. I also did my eye of partridge heel, which I really like.
I was able to complete my two pair of great white socks for my socks for soldiers project and get them mailed off to be dyed. My stash never seems to get smaller. And I always seem to get one more pair on the needles as soon as I complete one.
But then, it's so darn cold out, I tend to want to stay in and knit most nights.

Valentine's Socks

2008-02-14T18:32:00.001-06:00

crush2
Originally uploaded by blacksheepknits

I made these for my 8 year old for Valentine's Day with Moda Dea Sassy Stripes from my stash, bought before I knew what "good" sock yarn was! I was hoping to destash some and use this up, but I still have enough for a couple of pairs for my 1 year old too. Ce la vie!

Its been pretty quite here- I hope everyone is happily knitting and all is well!

Socks and Mittens

2008-02-06T22:09:00.000-06:00

First, socks.

They're Monkeys in hand dyed yarn in a Buffy the Vampire Slayer colorway. I swear that both of them are done but I only took a picture of the one. I finished them in January so they don't count as finished socks for this month anyways.

I also wanted to post my mittens since I was working on them at the knit night.

Emily
seeemilyknit.blogspot.com

Baby, it's cold outside!

2008-01-31T23:25:00.000-06:00

Lucky for me, I have a new pair of wool socks! These are made with the Claudia's Handpaints that I bought at the Yarnery in October. They are knit toe-up on size 1 circular needles. The pattern is my own, based on the New Pathways for Sockknitters book - I highly recommend this book.

Close but No Bubblegum Cigar

2008-01-31T17:05:00.000-06:00

I've been trying to finish a pair of socks a month. I've gotten to the heel flap on my second BMFA heavy weight Socks That Rock in Mystic Kelp. Better luck next month.

Monkey Socks

2008-01-31T08:12:00.000-06:00

Whew! Just squeeked in under the wire for January.
Pattern: Monkey Socks by Cookie A. (knitty.com)
Yarn: Seacoast Handpainted Yarns, colorway Balsam ( 60% Merino, 30% Bamboo, 10% Nylon)
This is terrific yarn to work with, combining the best features of merino and bamboo - highly recommended.

I worked on these socks while visiting my parents down South, over the Christmas/New Year's holidays. How much do we love using one long circular needle for socks when knitting on airplanes? A lot. Don't get me wrong, I'll never give up my dpns, but there are times (airport security) when circs rule (cramped plane seats).

Stay warm, everybody.
Julia

Two Pairs of Finished Socks!!!!!!!!!!

2008-01-30T22:09:00.000-06:00

I still did not finish my son's socks but I finished these:

The first pair was a Christmas Present for my brother in law's wife. I knit them to the heel and gave them to her for Christmas, I had to make sure they fit,as I was not quite sure what size foot she has

The pattern is from The Sock Journal and it is the Cobblestone Pattern. The yarn is wool and Tencel from Ellen's Half Pint Farm.

The second pair was for me

The pattern is my generic two socks at once from the toes up and I used a replacement heel so as not to disrupt the stripes.

Next month I hope to have another finished pair or two.

Ahhh, another knit night under our belts.

2008-01-29T12:02:00.000-06:00

For those of you who came, thank you so much I'm sorry there were no treats but I hope you all had fun anyways. We had a few new people show and I thought that was great!! And of course, the ones I see often - you know who you are - I'm so glad that you all help keep this thing going.

I do want to make a few comments about our KAL and Knit nights. We had a few people who were not working on socks (myself included) and I need to put this out there... "We, at the Yarnery, do not discriminate based on all the things you are used to hearing plus this very important one: we do not discriminate based on project, status of project, colorways or fibers. We love everyone and their projects so if the reason you are not coming to knit night is that you are not currently working on socks let me alleviate any pressure you might be feeling: COME ANYWAY!!

That said, thanks again for coming and I hope to see more of you in the future!!

Sarah W
incaknits.blogspot.com

January socks done

2008-01-25T20:11:00.001-06:00

Monkey socks from knitty in CTH's Tropical Storm colorway. These are my first socks out of "actual" sock yarn and I think I'm now addicted. They're on size 2's and took me about two months on and off to knit. Love them!

Back Again

2008-01-24T13:58:00.000-06:00

Back to the Knit-A-Long. And it has been a very long time indeed. The Christmas Knitting got the best of me.

But I am back in the saddle as far as sock knitting goes. I have a completed socks for the month! Koigu! They are extremely beautiful if I do say so myself. It is just a simple sock pattern. They make me think spring in this cold, cold weather! This colorway just makes me smile!

Then I cast some more socks on. Cherry Tree Hill this time. I really am liking how the red is wrapping around the sock! The colors are very muted. I am thinking they will be lovely dress socks. I keep telling my daughter they are for me . . . not for her.

Then Then I cast some other socks on! Fleece Artist yarn, which is quite lovely, and makes me think of summer (yes I am so sick of the cold weather). Are you seeing a pattern here . . . socks and warmer temps.

Although teaching a "Baby Surprise Class" has been cutting into my own personal knitting time. But what fun. I think I will need to go shopping for some more sock yarn. Soon!

January Socks Finished and WIPs

2008-01-23T17:54:00.000-06:00

WIP (Works in Progress)
I am knitting socks for Soldiers. It's an online group who knits socks to send to soldiers serving overseas. This is my 7th pair I have knit for them. I am trying two socks on one long Addi Turbo needle. I have no idea what I am doing, but it is slowly coming along. Mens socks with 12 inch cuffs take forever to finish, even when someone else does the cuffs on their machine. We can always use new members. For more information, go to sockforsoliders@yahoogroups.com I finished a pair of socks for my daughter for her birthday (which is Saturday), using the gogeous Tofutsie that I got for finishing socks in October. I had never used the yarn before, and it made beautiful socks. I have enough left over to make a pair for my 2 year old grand daughter, who adores her aunt. They will love having matching socks.

Other WIPs
Birthday socks for my grandson who turns 4 next week. I only have to Kitchner the last toes shut.

It's been a productive month!

Footsie

2008-01-21T08:20:00.000-06:00

I wasn't sure I would be able to knit any socks this month. But I did -- a very cute pair of footsies for my Grandma. : )

Also, many thanks to Sarah W and The Yarnery for my wonderful prize from last month's drawing. I love the colors in this yarn... reminds me of the Caribbean, lots of blues and greens, very pretty!

FINALLY, SOME SOCKS

2008-01-20T22:14:00.000-06:00

Ah HA! Some socks for your viewing pleasure!!

More About Yarni

2008-01-17T11:54:00.000-06:00

I know, I know, there are two new sock yarns at the store and I do want you to check them out. They are Berroco Comfort socks. This is our second sock yarn with NO WOOL. This one is 50% Super Fine Nylon, 50% Super Fine Acrylic. It's soft. For those of you who are knitting for people with allergies or just a sensitive foot, this might be for you.

The second new sock yarn is Plymouth's Happy Feet (90% Superwash Merino, 10% nylon).

But the real reason for this post is to remind you all of our very lovely Yarni. This (not limited to) sock yarn is hand dyed by our very own V. I had started a pair of monkey socks in fashionable pink before the holidays and I had to set them aside to finish up my present knitting. Yesterday, I pulled them out again and within a matter of moments was tactilely reminded of just how great this yarn is. It it flows through your fingers like silk (and there is not a lick of silk in it). The colors are soft and quiet - the pink I chose reminds me of a big pile of cotton candy. I don't think I can knit fast enough to get these on my feet. I'm looking forward to the feeling against me skin.

And speaking of soft Yarni against ones skin. Please note that Yarni also makes an excellent baby sweater (as seen in our pattern by Mary Lou)
So I recommend, for those of you who haven't tried it... TRY IT!!

And I'll soon be posting those finished Monkey socks. i promise.

Sarah W.
incaknits.blogspot.com

2 & 2

2008-01-14T11:22:00.000-06:00

Sorry for the Chuck Wollery memories... here's the sock update:

Two FOs
In the last month I've knit two ribbed socks. These were each from unmatched pairs. One dates back to Feb. of 2007, the other to August 2007.

Two WIPs
This past month I've also started two more pairs. 2-circ sock knitting is great for travel - even if you're just taking the bus into downtown. The sock on the left is knit with Jitterbug yarn from Colinette. Since the colorway is quite bright, I decided to forgo any pattern!

On the left I started to knit with the skein of Somoko from Fleece Artist that I won from the SITCKAL contest! It's a simple swirl pattern in traveling stitches on a stockinette background.

Not Socks

In mid-December I started a large project at sock-knitting gauge because... well, possible insanity? I'm absolutely loving it, and moving back and forth between the somewhat complex sweater and simple stockinette socks has been a great match.

~Deb

http://www.kitchencotton.blogspot.com/

My First Socks of the Year

2008-01-13T22:02:00.000-06:00

These socks have found a new life and home. I made them originally with the split toe deal for wearing with sandals. I never wore them and my daughter gave them the thumbs down. One of her friends at university saw my blog and found out that I knit socks. She asked my daughter if she thought I would knit her some. I thought immediately of these socks. I ripped them out back to before the toe decreases (thank goodness that I have big feet), and re-knit the toes. Just finished them last night, just in time for my daughter to take back with her today. I hope the new recipient enjoys them!

BTW, they are made from Trekking XXL and they had an interesting twist to the heels. There are plain knit rows between the decrease and increase portions of the short row heel. I wonder how that will effect the fit? Has anyone else knit this type of heel?

Maggie

Socks for Rosie

2008-01-13T13:18:00.001-06:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by blacksheepknits

Baby socks ROCK! I had one skein of Regia Bamboo Color and a quick-to-knit pattern and viola! If I had been able to knit straight through, they would have taken less than 4 hours. Don't let the pic fool you, they are the same length, though one is pointier in the toe and they need blocking. I LOVE this yarn. It looks like tiny ribbon candy and its almost as if it should have a sugary smell. I have enough for another pair too!

I never know whether to do one plain round after finishing toe decreases or to stop after the final decreases and then graft. Doing one plain round seems to make a pointier toe... Input for nOOb sock knitter?

New Socks for 2008

2008-01-11T16:06:00.000-06:00

I of course, ran to the Yarnery and purchased more sock yarn. A discount coupon is the only excuse I need to buy yarn. . .

I thought I'd try something with the Old Shale/Feather and fan pattern. This doesn't show up too well on the needles. . . and I don't have much done yet. . . but I think they will turn out great!
Shawn

Annetrelac Socks

2008-01-11T09:39:00.000-06:00

Here are the newest socks I am working on (although I did wind some yarn last night for another pair and am still working on a different pair...) It is hard to put down - I like to see what the next color will be!

www.scrapovers.com/blog

Socks!

2008-01-09T22:06:00.000-06:00

I finished the socks I had shown the short row heel on before. They were fun to make. I also made a pair of baby bootees out of the leftovers. Pictures and details about those can be found at my blog because I had enough formating issues with that post so I'm not going to put them on here as well. I'm glad to hear about another knit night and hope to see lots of you there.

Emily
seeemilyknit.blogspot.com

Another Knit Night

2008-01-09T12:06:00.000-06:00

Whose with me? I've scheduled some Yarnery time for us to get together again. I hope that we have all those who were there before and some new faces as well.

Here are the stats:

Sunday, January 27, 2008
5:30 pm

Bring your knitting (it doesn't HAVE to be socks) and your need to socialize with other knitters and we'll see you there!!

Seriously...I Need To get On The Ball

2008-01-08T08:28:00.001-06:00

OK, as you all can tell, I'm getting the new year off to a slow start. So check it:

I'm finally announcing the winner for December.

It's LIMEDRAGON!!

And the prize is a very nice skein of meilenweit sock yarn.

I'm sorry for the anti-climactic-ness of this post. But Limedragon, I hope to see you in store on Wednesday evening (that is when your prize will be ready) or anytime after that.

Blame It on The Holidays

2008-01-02T08:53:00.001-06:00

So, I bet you are all wondering where I am and why there has been no new post reward or who the winner is? Well, I'm working on all that. Because of the holidays I have not sat at my computer for more than 5 minutes at any one time. So I'm going to be getting down to business this morning and getting the post rewards out and picking a winner. Hold on for a wee bit longer. Thanks for sticking with us!!

Sarah
incaknits.blogspot.com

Oldest UFO socks finished

2007-12-31T23:24:00.001-06:00

I can't really be sure when I actually started this pair of socks. The copyright on the pattern is 2003, and I believe that it was in the early part of that year. I started these in a class at The Sheepy Yarn Shoppe. I will offer a bit of advice. When you stop working on a project, make lots of notes. Or better yet, make notes as you go along, so if you stop working on it you will have a clue where you are. It took my a great deal of time to figure out where I was in the pattern! Did I learn by this mistake? Only time will tell...

The color in the picture isn't really true, they are actually a clear red.

Maggie
http://wild4knitting.blogspot.com/

Short Row Heel

2007-12-31T22:41:00.000-06:00

I don't generally get the opportunity to post to this blog so closely together but I'm so thrilled with myself right now that I had to share with someone.

I just completed my first short row heel and I don't think it went altogether badly. I'll probably stick to my normal heel flap, turn heel, pick up for the gusset mode, but I think I will use it in another pair of socks some day.

FInished socks with 10 hours to spare

2007-12-31T14:05:00.001-06:00

I finished them!! My Tofutsie socks are done!! Woohoo. The most special thing about them is that they are for me. I'm wearing them at this very moment.
Here are some pics:

Sliding in with another Post Holiday Knit

2007-12-30T23:36:00.001-06:00

Well this is what I worked on as far as "socks" are concerned. This is a slipper for my son's girlfriend. This is worked all in garter stitch - carrying it along as I went. I have 1 more pair to complete tomorrow which will make the total count...4 pair of slippers. I wanted to be sure to post this before the month ended!

I received this lovely yarn for Christmas and will be casting on the Annetrelac socks from the Holiday Interweave Knits right after the first of the year!

Connie
www.scrapovers.com/blog

Tofutsies Socks

2007-12-30T02:23:00.000-06:00

I had originally planned these to be for my grandma for Christmas but I didn't even have one sock done in time. I'll save them for either her birthday/Mother's Day (her birthday is May 10) or next Christmas.

I didn't use this month's coupon because I already had this in my stash but now I wish I had because I really liked working with the Tofutsies.

Long Time - No Socks

2007-12-29T20:31:00.001-06:00

I meant to finish these socks up when I signed up here. Unfortunately, Christmas gift knitting got in the way. These socks are Socktopia Mystery socks knit on size one needles using Crystal Palace Maizy -Cactus. I was intending to finish while it was still summer so they aren't particularly warm, but they will be nice for spring (and I have worn them with another pair of socks when my feet were really cold).

Are you a size 9 or 10?

2007-12-28T13:24:00.000-06:00

Hi,

I am designing a sock pattern and I want to have it in two sizes. I am size 7, so I am looking for measurements for size 9 or 10.

I you have a size 9 or 10 foot (average for that size, not real narrow or real wide) and you don't mind sending me your measurements, I'd really appreciate it. I need to know the following:
* shoe size
* length of foot from toe to heel - put a ruler or tape measure on the floor with the end against the wall, then stand with the back of your heel to the wall and measure to tip of longest toe - in inches
* circumference around mid-foot - in inches

Please email to me at beqbeq@yahoo.com

Thanks! Rebecca A

Christmas Socks for Michael

2007-12-28T13:14:00.000-06:00

Here are the Christmas socks I knit for my new nephew Michael. These are knit with Regia Stretch Color on size 3 DPNs. I like this yarn and it is good for children's socks. It is very colorful, with a non-repeating striping pattern - at least I didn't knit enough to find a repeat. The yarn is soft and stretchy - good for growing feet. These are knit with afterthought heels - I never tried those heels before and wanted to try something new. I'm not sure I'll ever do them again, unless I learn how to graft. My heel grafting was so terrible that I decided to finish the toes with a three needle bind-off, so these aren't the prettiest socks in the world, but Michael doesn't seem to mind. They are a little big, but he is growing fast, so that is good!

Stockings Count!

2007-12-26T09:24:00.000-06:00

Tia, I'm going to say (with great enthusiasm) that Stockings are going to count. It didn't really dawn on me before, but it is the holiday season so if there are any of you out there who made holiday stockings and can get them posted, they, too, will count towards a "pair" of finished socks.

Do stockings count?

2007-12-24T17:39:00.001-06:00

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by blacksheepknits

I finished my one year old's stocking just in time for Santa to fill it. Its loosely based on Knitty's Fuzzy Feet pattern, made with Cascade 200, felted and then Rosa's name is needle felted on. The roving I used is something I got over a year ago when I thought I wanted to learn to spin, its blue, red, bright green and shot through with red and silver tinsel. I am in love with this project, and so proud of how it turned out! Hopefully this will launch me out of my knitting blahs.

Happy Holidays everyone!

No Socks for Me This Month :-(

2007-12-22T09:09:00.000-06:00

I didn't have much knitting time this month, but what I had was devoted to knitting Christmas presents. Even though I didn't knit socks, I did knit some sock yarn:

These were knit with one skein of Koigu, held doubled on size 7 needles. A fast and easy project and a good way to use up a single skein of sock yarn. Here's how they look on the hand:

Sock knitting will return as soon as I get one of these presents done - hopefully this week, right?!

holiday socks

2007-12-22T06:05:00.000-06:00

Finished two pairs just in time for the holidays. : )

Broadripple project/yarn details & more pictures are in this post

Gentleman's Plain Winter Sock project/yarn specs & more pictures in this post

Happy Holidays everyone! : )

= limedragon :-: Harriet

Fighting the blahs

2007-12-19T17:10:00.000-06:00

Those winter blahs can knock the knitting spunk right outta a girl. Which is not exactly a good thing when she's decided to knit Christmas presents. In an attempt to reconnect with my knitting mojo, I finished these:

Twisted Fiber Arts Duchess in Octarine with eye of the partridge heel and round toe. I tried eye of the partridge on the toe, but I'm not happy with the results. The decreases for the round toe interfered with the stitch pattern. Live and learn.

And now, it's back to black popovers and navy mittens.

Will my new socks be done by Christmas!?

2007-12-19T17:08:00.000-06:00

I ran to the Yarnery and picked up my TOFUtsie yarn! I heard so much about this yarn and was happy to try it. I thought I might use the same design I did for November's socks, a slip stitch cable, but I decided it was too much work compared to the way it looked in this yarn.
So, I let the slip stitch cable be the ribbing and continued on in stockinette. Maybe, this way I'll be able to finish them by Christmas. Afterall, they are my present to myself.:)

Thanx to all those at the Yarnery for making it easy to knit socks, socks, and more socks.
Shawn

Just a Little more to go

2007-12-16T09:54:00.000-06:00

Hello knitters, I'm here to share the socks I've been working on:

They are Cascade 220. Made for my dad who lives in the Great White North and does a lot of snowshoeing. So I though a good snug wool would be good for him. I hope he likes them. If he doesn't, I'm keeping them cuz they are toasty!!

Also, you can see in my photo one of the stockings that I have made for my family. They are your standard, but I needed to make them match (as best as possible) the ones that my great-grandmother had made for my family when I was born. And, no, I didn't make them this year, I've been making them as each person has been added to the family. Sadly though, My son Henry is 2 and his name still isn't finished on his stocking. It's an ongoing joke at my house.

Well, Happy Holidays to all of you. I hope that you all have a great time whereever you spend them.

Sarah W.
incaknits@yahoo.com

Ted's new socks

2007-12-13T13:28:00.000-06:00

Dad's Christmas socks are complete. Very muted colors, but he's that kind of guy. He may even think the blue is a "little bright".
Pattern: two-color version of "Peppermint Twist", by Susan Lawrence
Yarn: KnitPicks Essential (gray), leftover Opal used for contrasting color (ball band long gone).

This pattern is a great way to use up bits of sock yarn leftover from other projects.

I need inspiration...

2007-12-13T11:26:00.000-06:00

I am in a knitting slump. The Breeze socks I finished in early November... one is lost after their maiden washing voyage. :( We share a laundry room with some very unsavory neighbors. These were the first socks I ever finished before Sock Wars II and now I am just discouraged. Anyone have an exciting pattern to help me out of my slump?? I have about half a ball of Dream in Color Smooshy, some Paton's Kroy stripe and one skein of Claudia Handpainted. Right now (on the sock needles) I have about 1/4 pair of Short Scar socks in Rowan Cashsoft in a dusty pink... they just aren't keeping me interested... :(

Simple Socks

2007-12-11T12:48:00.000-06:00

Anyone watch The Sopranos? A few weeks ago I rented the last season. The main character constantly says "Every day is a gift" after a certain life-changing event. Later on Tony (re: David Chase) has a bad day and mutters, "Every day is a gift-- but does it have to be a pair of socks?"
***

Usually I'm all about texture and lace when knitting socks, but I've been working on simple stockinette and ribbed items in the last month.

The socks below are toe-up socks on 2 circulars. I used six different Koigu colorways.
(approx. 15 grams ea. Some had more, some had less.)

Can you see the creases on each side of the sock? :) This goes away after a soak. Judy's magic cast-on was used (fabulous, highly recommend), and I tried Wendy Johnson's heel. It seems to fit people with high insteps well, but does leave a bit of a fabric gap on the instep opposite of the heel turn. Personally, I think the Widdershin heel solution is a better option for heel flaps (or pseudo flaps) when knitting toe-up socks. Hopefully the holiday recipient likes them more than a fake mob boss would...
Last week I pulled the first sock out of my (now infamous) Sock Drawer of Shame. It was knit just shy of a year ago in January. Time for it's mate, I say.

-Deb

www.kitchencotton.blogspot.com

No Photos!

2007-12-06T13:53:00.000-06:00

I need a new camera, oh well! I am will have finished socks this month! I promise. I missed last month. The socks are Christmas presents so they have to be done! MUST KNIT FASTER.

A New Winner

2007-12-03T10:51:00.000-06:00

The new drawing has taken place. With the help of my beautiful assistant we announce the winner of a Jean Christiansen pattern and double points to be...

Renee

Congrats (have I done this before?)!!

See you at the store.