Friday, May 24

The Shape of Knitting





I was given the awesome opportunity to review this book by Lynne Barr. Let me just say that it has resulted in a major "wow" from me and I haven't been able to put it down. Barr, author of two other innovative books, has developed a fascinating course in shaping flat knitting into wonderfully dimensional, visual, and almost 3-dimensional pieces with many techniques that we already know: cast-ons, bind-offs, increases and decreases, and short rows. In The Shape of Knitting, she goes into great detail about dividing and combining stitches, resulting in a stunning array of methods that will delight your knitting senses.

22 unique projects will this book, such as the Warm Hands Scarf or the unusual Square Arches Socks. I am dying to try out the Rocking Rib Wrap, which is a beautiful array of adding and subtracting stitches. Oh, and the Ripple Vest and 3D Headbands are awe-inspiring!


The majority of the patterns are fast so that you can master the techniques before quickly moving on to learn more. Socks, scarves, bags, thick sweaters, hats, and stunning shawls will delight knitters of every level, especially intermediate and advanced knitters who think they've seen it all.


The layout is fresh and clean, with bright images, clear text, and lovely colors. Most of the designs utilize very basic stitches, so charts aren't necessary, and really let you dig deep into the shaping methods. Abrams Books absolutely picked a winner here with a trailblazer like Lynne Barr. 

Thursday, May 2

Flare Scarf


I was thrilled when Shalimar Yarn asked me to come up with a design for their 2013 Indulge Me Club - a subscription where you get a monthly mailing of luscious yarn and a coordinating pattern! 


I debated for a while on what to do since the beginning of the year brought a lack of muse inspiration. But, then, the yarn arrived and I was struck by the vibrant glow. Oh, how it makes me crave summer sun. I mean, here it is, May SECOND, and we just had a winter snow storm yesterday. :::head bang::: I just pull out the pictures from my photo shoot and suddenly, I feel so much better. Warmth is coming... and Shalimar Yarns will certainly hasten that warmth with sheer will. 

This solar-infused scarf will heat up your wardrobe with amazing lace that looks like the beaming sun. Fire up your knitting with unique yarn over effects and an amazing colorplay of your multi-colored yarn. 

In the Flare Scarf, you'll find a Kitchener Stitch tutorial, beautiful photos, easy-to-read text, and a clear layout. The stitch pattern is both written and charted for your preference. This pattern is for the intermediate knitter. 

finished measurements 
6 1/2” / 16.5 cm wide, 68” / 173 cm long
needle size
US 4 (3.5mm)
yarn 
375 yd / 343 m Lace Weight CYC #0
Sample shown in
Shalimar Breathless Lace (800 yds / 731 m per 4 oz / 113 g skein; 75% superwash merino, 15% cashmere, 10% silk):Embers, 1 skein.
gauge
32 sts and 36 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in Stockinette Stitch
notions 
Stitch holder, tapestry needle

You can buy it now for $6.00!