tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38174532024-02-28T04:55:06.952+00:00Good Enough.adventures of an imperfectionistLeahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01932470098845772514noreply@blogger.comBlogger583125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817453.post-35835300595862937552017-09-18T13:57:00.000+01:002017-09-18T13:57:11.597+01:00What whatHey blogosphere, what's up? We've had an eventful few months. My wee bean turned one, I went back to work part-time, we took a trip to Canada, and I actually knit some things! I've been more active on instagram lately, since it doesn't involved as much typing/thinking, so go check it out if you like: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/goodenoughknits/">@goodenoughknits</a>.<br />
<br />
Let's talk about the knitting.<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-version="7" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"><div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"><div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BW0oAkyjjGl/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Leah W (@goodenoughknits)</a> on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2017-07-21T20:37:02+00:00">Jul 21, 2017 at 1:37pm PDT</time></p></div></blockquote><script async defer src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><br />
<b>Pattern:</b> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/pendragon-socks">Pendragon Socks by Erica Lueder</a><br />
<b>Yarn:</b> Bog-standard Regia<br />
<b>Mods:</b> Cast-on 64 stitches to accommodate gauge. Accidentally changed cable pattern on the foot due to lack of attention - eh, it's fine.<br />
<b>Notes:</b> I made these for my mum since I promised her socks last year but never managed to make any. (I blame baby.)<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-version="7" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"><div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"><div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BWISJWdDY7b/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Leah W (@goodenoughknits)</a> on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2017-07-04T15:19:24+00:00">Jul 4, 2017 at 8:19am PDT</time></p></div></blockquote><script async defer src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><br />
<b>Pattern:</b> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/umbel">Umbel by Andrea Halasi</a><br />
<b>Yarn:</b> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/easyknitscouk-deeply-wicked">Easyknits Deeply Wicked in Queenie</a><br />
<b>Mods:</b> Twisted stitches for the motifs, regular lace bind-off instead of picots.<br />
<b>Notes:</b> This is yarn I bought several EYFs ago, and I'm so happy I've been able to use it. It's gorgeous and rich - I already have plans to use the leftovers as an accent colour in something else.<br />
<br />
And an un-hibernated WIP!<br />
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-version="7" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"><div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50.0% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"><div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BY-tKOLjHkx/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Leah W (@goodenoughknits)</a> on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2017-09-13T11:37:14+00:00">Sep 13, 2017 at 4:37am PDT</time></p></div></blockquote><script async defer src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><br />
<b>Pattern:</b> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/cattails">Cattails by Melissa Schaschwary</a><br />
<b>Yarn:</b> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/rowan-creative-linen">Rowan Creative Linen</a><br />
<b>Notes:</b> This is the first time I've worked with linen and I really like it! I don't find cotton hard on my hands, generally, and this cotton-linen blend is just fine. The cotton probably softens the linen considerably. I'm still curious to try 100% linen some time. I'm pleased with my progress on this, although I may end up with a finished summer cardigan in the middle of winter. #slowknitterproblems. I'm currently fighting with the hem because either I'm a dumbass or the pattern is unclear or a combination of both. After ripping it out twice, I'm about to start a third time and I think I know what I'm doing now. (Other than this blip the rest of the pattern has been very simple and clear to work from.)<br />
<br />
I've fallen woefully behind on blog reading, since I have spent months at a time mostly accessing the internet from my phone. First because baby would only nap in my lap, then because the only free moments I had were when he was nursing. I did get a blog reader app, but I forgot I had it and got overwhelmed with all I had missed... So anyway, what's been up with you?<br />
<br />
<br />
Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01932470098845772514noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817453.post-58829150622183096642017-03-14T11:20:00.002+00:002017-03-14T11:20:57.631+00:00Edinburgh Yarn Festival 2017Oh my goodness. I went to EYF again this year and my head just about exploded. I love EYF. This year's festival was fantastic - so many incredible yarns and people! I went on Saturday, which was supposedly quieter than Friday, but it was still heaving.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF0TNE913Pidmv0yI7miXr7hYQJY2mCJW1ER2-VZOy8A6_6xI1RcU_QcNjv_V0-dxi9_LHlTrqCtb9zXZ-NzyIvchRMCbjuc00-XVsTQUyfY_qjv-rsk3-E-8eY1rZ7Q9GRPNX/s1600/IMG_20170312_081216.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF0TNE913Pidmv0yI7miXr7hYQJY2mCJW1ER2-VZOy8A6_6xI1RcU_QcNjv_V0-dxi9_LHlTrqCtb9zXZ-NzyIvchRMCbjuc00-XVsTQUyfY_qjv-rsk3-E-8eY1rZ7Q9GRPNX/s400/IMG_20170312_081216.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This year I brought the Bean with me, strapped to my chest in the carrier, and I was exhausted before we even started. In the middle of our day we had a nice rest in the Podcast Lounge where I chatted with some lovely people and he had a nap. (I stupidly left my knitting in the bag I dumped in the cloakroom. Fail.) I found some new podcasters to check out and I gushed awkwardly at Louise of <a href="http://www.knitbritish.net/">KnitBritish</a>, whose podcast I enjoy very much. It's kept me company during many marathon nursing sessions since the Bean's birth and inspired me quite a lot. (She was very gracious and hopefully not creeped out. I have an introvert's fear of coming across like a weirdo, which I think makes me even more awkward when introducing myself to people I admire.)<br />
<br />
But the marketplace! The marketplace!<br />
<br />
Long-time readers may recall that <a href="http://goodenoughknits.blogspot.co.uk/2016/03/eyf-round-up.html">last year I was strategic</a>. I made a focused shortlist of things to consider buying, and oddly enough I pretty much stuck to the list. This year? Focus is in short supply. I couldn't come up with a shortlist, although I scrolled through the list of vendors repeatedly attempting to do so. Never mind.<br />
<br />
I came out with this:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqNnrRO_Soax4aXH84BqeTvd-XvKbf77BS4aICbejNt3y31ypuDBu6QPAmmzZVnSEfmsZjeXKd3mj1jk_XMEqzZ4suuNQN-k2TKqlsZMpjgoqNRwOl95M8lyJeOTemshQ0G3ON/s1600/IMG_20170312_083707.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqNnrRO_Soax4aXH84BqeTvd-XvKbf77BS4aICbejNt3y31ypuDBu6QPAmmzZVnSEfmsZjeXKd3mj1jk_XMEqzZ4suuNQN-k2TKqlsZMpjgoqNRwOl95M8lyJeOTemshQ0G3ON/s400/IMG_20170312_083707.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/travelknitter-bfl-supersock">Travelknitter BFL Supersock</a> in Raspberry Beret and Puddled Iron; <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/phileas-yarns-wanderlust-dk">Phileas Yarns Wanderlust DK</a> in Tamegroute; project bag from <a href="http://www.thelittlegreygirl.com/">Little Grey Girl</a>; book by <a href="http://tincanknits.com/">Tin Can Knits</a><br />
<br />
Some yarn, project bag, a book. A smallish haul, but I am pleased with it. Normally I am all about the yarn at yarn festivals, but this year I found myself looking at other stuff more. Since I don't have much knitting time or ability to focus these days, my existing stash has been weighing on me. I have so much lovely yarn, but it sits there waiting for me. And as it sits, and sits, my goals for it change. Also I haven't used any of th yarn I bought last year at EYF despite my focus. So it feels good to add a few beautiful skeins to the stash this year but not to go overboard.<br />
<br />
I realised that I need to stock up on zipper project bags because The Bean can now reach my knitting table and pull my drawstring bags down to play with them. He doesn't understand zippers yet (I know this will come with time), so I don't mine if he plays with a zippered pouch. Yes, I could sew one, but do I have the time? So I bought one and I love it. My current, largely neglected, sock project now lives there.<br />
<br />
The yarn? Apparently I'm into BFL right now, since all the yarn I bought has it. BFL is great. The current plan for the Phileas yarn is <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/his-golden-lair">His Golden Lair</a> by Kourtney Robinson. I have had this pattern for a long time but never found the right yarn for it. I may have to fiddle with it a bit since it's written for worsted weight and I have DK. No plans for the Travelknitter yet. I could conceivably knit socks with it, since BFL/Nylon will be pretty sturdy. I suspect I'll go for some neckwear, though.<br />
<br />
Wheee. What a day. I left the festival incredibly overwhelmed but also inspired to make better use of my limited crafting time. By the way, I finally started a public Instagram for my crafty endeavours: predictably, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/goodenoughknits/">@goodenoughknits</a>. You will find more EYF photos and enthusiasm there.Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01932470098845772514noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817453.post-17058876356400945782017-02-13T10:38:00.002+00:002017-02-13T10:38:40.432+00:00A tale of two swap parcelsNearly every year I participate in a swap with some lovely Ravelry friends. A group of volunteers pairs people up secretly so that each person knows who they are sending to but not who is sending to them. I always have a lot of fun finding gifts to send to my swap partner, usually including yarn and tasty treats. Last summer's swap turned out a bit differently than usual for hilarious reasons and I have to share the story with you, albeit belatedly.<br />
<br />
I sent off my parcel and waited eagerly to receive one, but it was slow to arrive. That in itself wasn't a surprise since most of the swappers are in the USA - I figured mine would be coming from overseas. When the designated opening day came and went with no parcel I started to get worried that it was lost or stolen. Or held up at customs anyway. I went on holiday and hoped to return to an exciting parcel... But there was nothing. I resigned myself.<br />
<br />
Then, the fantastic swap-runners came up with a replacement parcel for me! It contained many gorgeous things including yarn, fabric, and a pretty notebook with a teal theme. Plus a cute baby top for the bean! I love teal and I was so touched by their generosity.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigfjr83ochVqtGBSG3v8oXB4kJNSXxZlYOLAVb2wFF6CdpK8BASt7uqIy7RvSab4-7Xh3juj2nzb8paxXMhMlvaUX5Wjag5Q49ZRZqRpCEf0g-AjobcgRvNA8GHAS191O4NU3B/s1600/IMG_20160910_114747535_medium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigfjr83ochVqtGBSG3v8oXB4kJNSXxZlYOLAVb2wFF6CdpK8BASt7uqIy7RvSab4-7Xh3juj2nzb8paxXMhMlvaUX5Wjag5Q49ZRZqRpCEf0g-AjobcgRvNA8GHAS191O4NU3B/s320/IMG_20160910_114747535_medium.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I moved on with my life until a few weeks later, about 3 months after it had been sent, I received my original parcel! We'd been joking that a blind donkey had it... Seems that wasn't far off.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-PqgFarltKkx-NV4O8QdOBtrrDE3NoJSzlnEnxuZz45kXUNalm1VF8pNN8qZ5jHvXHUZGmxTpLCbyY8qKGWmteBr7Vd8N4WDl_lbgeBdMRH9LvSqJbHAto14hNd4MCL4Io9gu/s1600/IMG_20161003_101530090_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-PqgFarltKkx-NV4O8QdOBtrrDE3NoJSzlnEnxuZz45kXUNalm1VF8pNN8qZ5jHvXHUZGmxTpLCbyY8qKGWmteBr7Vd8N4WDl_lbgeBdMRH9LvSqJbHAto14hNd4MCL4Io9gu/s320/IMG_20161003_101530090_HDR.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Who knows why it went to Belize before coming to Scotland... But I am so glad it got here eventually. Wish it could have sent me postcards on its travels.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ZXOZepuaan5GLbFg96gI04Z4g9aZ_NGhswoiEJFCgEOwFUcyWxSzgqOpOc3YDJbdcnGk33yhZiC6sbvbtLBnNeogZzoO1eRZhBJHVyRXaIbc9ZKT0ZghSLcsLLbUgFiFad-6/s1600/IMG_20161003_102243390.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ZXOZepuaan5GLbFg96gI04Z4g9aZ_NGhswoiEJFCgEOwFUcyWxSzgqOpOc3YDJbdcnGk33yhZiC6sbvbtLBnNeogZzoO1eRZhBJHVyRXaIbc9ZKT0ZghSLcsLLbUgFiFad-6/s320/IMG_20161003_102243390.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
The original parcel had a purple theme, with note cards, yarn, buttons, bath scrub, and fancy pens.<br />
<br />
I think I will sit out on the swap next time since I've ended up with more than my fair share of lovely gifts. I'd like to pay it forward, though - if they need a swap angel next time, I'm there!<br />
<br />
<br />Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01932470098845772514noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817453.post-69985225863824236282017-01-24T11:06:00.000+00:002017-01-24T11:06:22.206+00:00O Hai Interwebs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidHYYXkx9kF2L8PsdfT-oMB7uI9QJ0Yx4XMZ6N3D6S-zNLJbpU1uxnvwjBDxAwV8fNwmWC1WFviOk1fUXbGsIkDy2zgW_fSRVZO1Oprywc30ZZ090I8qyMnPNChAv3kOPm2Ihyphenhyphen/s1600/IMG_20161122_143326432.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidHYYXkx9kF2L8PsdfT-oMB7uI9QJ0Yx4XMZ6N3D6S-zNLJbpU1uxnvwjBDxAwV8fNwmWC1WFviOk1fUXbGsIkDy2zgW_fSRVZO1Oprywc30ZZ090I8qyMnPNChAv3kOPm2Ihyphenhyphen/s320/IMG_20161122_143326432.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
An update of sorts. Since we last spoke, I have been busy! Mostly busy chasing The Bean around our still-not-baby-proof flat trying to prevent him from destroying himself/everything else. He stopped napping in his bed a few months ago, and after some wringing of hands and gnashing of teeth on my part, I have basically given up on that for now - so I do actually get some knitting done when he snoozes in my lap. The picture above is the only one I managed to get of the mittens I knit for him - we lost one soon after, so now he wears socks I made from the same yarn on his hands. (Don't have a pic of those.)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD_KpEpc82d1Sq2q9BPt-Qev6EADOWV-AZSch7jSl_iC1cd85pvvnNayVzTuCJ6xO1fUuO8EPvGLvgZvbTXuihQ_ZJY9qpSS48s4YY_5hhVnkAch_2rAKgrSBkzCY8NNCcLmc7/s1600/IMG_20161111_092203659.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD_KpEpc82d1Sq2q9BPt-Qev6EADOWV-AZSch7jSl_iC1cd85pvvnNayVzTuCJ6xO1fUuO8EPvGLvgZvbTXuihQ_ZJY9qpSS48s4YY_5hhVnkAch_2rAKgrSBkzCY8NNCcLmc7/s320/IMG_20161111_092203659.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I managed to finish his Hoist the Sails pullover (pattern by Triona Murphy), and it's lovely. Way too warm for my little furnace most of the time here, but it's good as an outer layer on really cold days. (It wasn't too short on him, just riding up in the picture. Next time I would make it longer anyway.)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1nxhvn2Xk8bq8DkacUvPGWDQdzBIa54s7yU5bbsuv53WFE-R2OSX8dH8CVBOtWnk5U4GGC7ckyU3SKsXjxGt_HTuTgK6fTkNYIy_OViCUcGAnS0VDsj7bSDT53Wv5-EYFMI8J/s1600/IMG_20161014_171256860.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1nxhvn2Xk8bq8DkacUvPGWDQdzBIa54s7yU5bbsuv53WFE-R2OSX8dH8CVBOtWnk5U4GGC7ckyU3SKsXjxGt_HTuTgK6fTkNYIy_OViCUcGAnS0VDsj7bSDT53Wv5-EYFMI8J/s320/IMG_20161014_171256860.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And bonus photo of the zigzag hat I made before he was born - it's getting too small now, so I should try to make another hat to last him the rest of the winter. Maybe a pussy hat.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Just a note: the formatting is all weird because I am posting from my phone as Bean naps on me. I can't be bothered to wrestle with links either... So, sorry. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hope you are all doing well and navigating the horror of the modern world with fierce determination and pointy sticks in hand. I will be back again with an update on my current projects and queueing and dismay at the world we've built for our children soon!</div>
<br />Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01932470098845772514noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817453.post-15959150235695681632016-10-06T10:57:00.000+01:002016-10-06T10:57:07.877+01:00Family influenceThe new season of <a href="http://www.aplayfulday.com/blog/">A Playful Day</a> podcast is about family, and she asks how family influences making. Let's be honest: that is pretty much my favourite thing to talk about these days, judging from every single post since baby. The main theme right now is "family influences my crafting by taking away my time to do it."<br />
<br />
As I have mentioned before, I spend a lot of time stuck in the disconnect between crafting plans / desires and actual crafting. My queue balloons with new ideas (many of them baby things) and my stash balloons with new materials... And then I spend my days taking care of my wee one, whose needs constantly change but get no less demanding as the weeks go by. The lack of actual crafting just feeds the queueing and stashing further. It's getting out of control!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWvzj91Rtw2HtUeZ0mONctVDzdO5UMF2VEFV7bpcVYL7eAu6CMdWvxQy9m_1kPt77y42UbTv3484RIymG8gfNFuzKAOaRZEGl6g4VEZsvYnMCsK6WZvuz67VBSAwW7W3OFhPZp/s1600/IMG_20161002_171932381.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWvzj91Rtw2HtUeZ0mONctVDzdO5UMF2VEFV7bpcVYL7eAu6CMdWvxQy9m_1kPt77y42UbTv3484RIymG8gfNFuzKAOaRZEGl6g4VEZsvYnMCsK6WZvuz67VBSAwW7W3OFhPZp/s640/IMG_20161002_171932381.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hoist the Sails sweater by Triona Murphy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
To be fair, this has happened to me whenever I haven't had crafting time. My dreams get too big. It's not just because of the baby. The difference now is that I feel pressure to knit faster to make baby things before he grows out of them. It's doomed to fail!<br />
<br />
It's not just time. My materials at different (all superwash all the time) and so are the projects I choose (stockinette and garter ftw!)<br />
<br />
I managed to get some knitting done while nursing a while back, until the Bean learned that grabbing is super fun. So now I try and get a few rows in while he sleeps. After a couple of weeks of very frustrating naps, I have given in and decided to embrace the opportunity to knit while he sleeps on me, rather than just queuing and online shopping through it. I am still not making much progress, but for now I will take what I can get.Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01932470098845772514noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817453.post-74038496508834410862016-09-09T13:02:00.000+01:002016-09-09T13:02:01.634+01:00Accidental Heirlooms, pt 1I have never made anything that could become an heirloom. (Possible exception - maybe my wedding shawl?) Generally, I make things so that I can use them in my everyday life. I'm not always super practical about it (see last post about superwash yarns...), but neither do I make tons of special occasion things that get used once and then put away. That's what I've always assumed one did with heirlooms, because how else would they last for generations? As it turns out, heirlooms don't have to be delicate fancy creations.<br />
<br />
When my son was born I received some things that have turned out to be heirlooms, even if they were never intended as such.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmCvUjVH2MBFGv7kY2LWl5c-a49P8m5OPhZheEOslcouuAW-tcskyNkL8pPH27OAfYBs9bxfgfDHeuzQPSJY7Pd21oo-pkYloJDh3ncXeI5goL12Yy2gFAmyoCrb1tlcuez-9i/s1600/IMG_20160820_115557.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmCvUjVH2MBFGv7kY2LWl5c-a49P8m5OPhZheEOslcouuAW-tcskyNkL8pPH27OAfYBs9bxfgfDHeuzQPSJY7Pd21oo-pkYloJDh3ncXeI5goL12Yy2gFAmyoCrb1tlcuez-9i/s400/IMG_20160820_115557.jpg" width="400" height="400" /></a></div><br />
Here's the Bean in a sweater my grandmother knitted for me when I was a baby, on a quilt that my other grandmother made for me. I wore the sweater (easy care acrylic, definitely washable) as a wee thing and I used the quilt on my bed throughout my childhood. He'll grow out of the sweater too quickly, I'm sure, but the quilt should last a while yet. Who knows if these things will pass down to another generation, but for now I'm glad to give them to my baby from his great-grandmothers.Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01932470098845772514noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817453.post-63182219134043877002016-08-01T09:12:00.000+01:002016-08-01T09:12:13.003+01:00Shifting prioritiesWhen I was pregnant, I obsessed over knitting with machine washable yarn for baby things. Babies are messy, I reasoned, and life is too short to hand wash pee and puke out of things frequently. I was not wrong.<br />
<br />
As it turns out, though, I neglected to think of my own clothes. I thought I would go back to knitting the sweaters from my queue once I regained some semblance of non-preggo shape, but I didn't consider that most of the yarn I have lined up for said queue is not machine washable. And I find myself covered in bodily fluids that are not my own sometimes multiple times a day.<br />
<br />
DUH! I hear you shout. Of course the baby's mess is not confined to his own clothes! And yet I totally didn't consider this before the baby arrived for some reason.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghIKIqyQQbz_T8Siuz5RXoDxXCx7RVv2Dv2pr0H8vDQ_P2datW9LaOdk5YCwiwIyrsIxmf-4UV6UJTBbvnixH5cr9n7hQfqFQOU5-V_Mr74bH3GLZrW9y6GFCWczrEfeBYkg-H/s1600/IMG_20160728_110519046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghIKIqyQQbz_T8Siuz5RXoDxXCx7RVv2Dv2pr0H8vDQ_P2datW9LaOdk5YCwiwIyrsIxmf-4UV6UJTBbvnixH5cr9n7hQfqFQOU5-V_Mr74bH3GLZrW9y6GFCWczrEfeBYkg-H/s400/IMG_20160728_110519046.jpg" width="400" height="225" /></a></div>Anyway. My priorities for my own making are shifting. I foresee much super wash in my future. On that note, I started knitting <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/cattails">Cattails</a> in some <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/rowan-creative-linen">Rowan Creative Linen</a>, which is a 50% cotton 50% linen blend. It's not advertised as machine washable, but washing and drying my swatch produced no ill effects, so I'm going with it. Bonus: lots of stockinette means that I can knit a few stitches and put it down without losing my place - necessary in these days of uncertain naps.Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01932470098845772514noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817453.post-81365448323597812562016-07-19T14:04:00.001+01:002016-07-19T14:04:23.183+01:00FO: ElijahI finished the elephant! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqHlIN7UppZLzMCcmMnBJsE-L0D0U11IOn03Pz0aiuwkDKc7u7b4lAsllFbAaD5a5TQ6hkjQwxdrsV7J5ltGyJZi1u-V8tRgSPB6WUItzLJR4JDn06TAnoT-CpdJLtI9sO5A8t/s1600/IMG_20160714_143833578.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqHlIN7UppZLzMCcmMnBJsE-L0D0U11IOn03Pz0aiuwkDKc7u7b4lAsllFbAaD5a5TQ6hkjQwxdrsV7J5ltGyJZi1u-V8tRgSPB6WUItzLJR4JDn06TAnoT-CpdJLtI9sO5A8t/s400/IMG_20160714_143833578.jpg" width="225" height="400" /></a></div><b>Pattern:</b> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/elijah">Elijah by Ysolda Teague</a><br />
<br />
<b>Yarn:</b> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/katia-cotton-100">Katia Cotton 100%</a><br />
<br />
<b>Notes:</b><br />
All in all a pretty fun knit. I like that it was totally seamless. Picking up stitches from already-stuffed body parts is fiddly, but worth it in the end. Baby Bean isn't really interested in it yet, but I hope he'll find it fun once he is.<br />
<br />
The yarn is soft yet sturdy, and washable, so I think it would be great for other baby knits. I will keep it in mind once I run through my current colourful cotton stash, which is mostly made up of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/rico-design-essentials-cotton-dk">Rico Design Essentials Cotton DK</a>. (Also a nice soft cotton, but quite shiny, so it would be nice to have some matte cotton in the arsenal.)Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01932470098845772514noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817453.post-75960696818919174022016-07-11T11:47:00.000+01:002016-07-11T11:47:42.505+01:00Level up So this happened the other day. Achievement unlocked!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEienykrKpyQ_N1jdrKrIV_FXfyY1nQJJ2ezAySBFx_KHXmq76Xz1HJOdir79r05n5bWeF8iKhGxRUMHg-U-X0rx1v7ovcAXI0VMYRYnc0diyux1KCd77Uq5_6qmcHP0mdImpTF4/s1600/IMG_20160707_110408.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEienykrKpyQ_N1jdrKrIV_FXfyY1nQJJ2ezAySBFx_KHXmq76Xz1HJOdir79r05n5bWeF8iKhGxRUMHg-U-X0rx1v7ovcAXI0VMYRYnc0diyux1KCd77Uq5_6qmcHP0mdImpTF4/s400/IMG_20160707_110408.jpg" width="400" height="400" /></a></div>Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01932470098845772514noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817453.post-60358875051299016212016-07-07T12:10:00.000+01:002016-07-07T12:10:31.975+01:00I made a thing I managed to make a thing! It feels good to finish something.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYCkVBjkFK9YjE86Q9i1vn4GwNtO272ihr9rWzAHrTZft-N1FWDY_M7p1nDg5bSo04uTLylthnIG9iV6sQ1_hCz8_xtqkxmK9pGJN_TlXWG0YZhjwva-vNzT-c2xn6IBCYw4TH/s1600/IMG_20160706_181733_medium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYCkVBjkFK9YjE86Q9i1vn4GwNtO272ihr9rWzAHrTZft-N1FWDY_M7p1nDg5bSo04uTLylthnIG9iV6sQ1_hCz8_xtqkxmK9pGJN_TlXWG0YZhjwva-vNzT-c2xn6IBCYw4TH/s400/IMG_20160706_181733_medium.jpg" width="227" height="400" /></a></div><br />
<b>Pattern:</b> <a href="http://www.made-by-rae.com/2014/03/sewing-for-baby-knit-baby-leggings/">Just Hatched Baby Leggings</a> by Rae Hoekstra of Made by Rae<br />
<br />
I made these out of an old polo shirt of my husband's, so they aren't a super fun exciting print. Rae suggests using old tshirts for the fabric, and this is brilliant because if you line it up correctly you don't have to hem the bottoms. Win! They took me several naptimes to complete, though they would be a quick project if you have half an hour of uninterrupted time. The elastic casing is a bit wonky due to rushing and also not being super experienced at sewing knits. I've bought a few large stretchy tops from a charity shop to make a few more pairs, since stretchy trousers / leggings are turning out to be super useful for us. You can see they fit over his giant cloth nappy, which is awesome. I am going to try to adapt the pattern to make them a bit bigger so he'll have some to grow into.<br />
Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01932470098845772514noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817453.post-80564761091220139412016-07-01T11:24:00.003+01:002016-07-01T11:24:39.792+01:00Interesting times ; queueing as coping mechanism The last week here in the UK has exemplified that old chestnut "cursed to live in interesting times." It is like watching a car crash - can't look away but watch in horror as normality implodes. I am angered and saddened by the way racism and xenophobia have been legitimised. I fear for my friends and neighbours who come from around the world. I fear for my friends and neighbours who were born here but still find themselves open to abuse due to colour or religion.<br />
<br />
Attacks on immigrants hit close to home. I am an immigrant. I am a foreigner here, but I enjoy privilege being white, Western and with English as my first language. I am a so-called "good immigrant," so I don't fear for my safety. The fact that people make this distinction makes me sick.<br />
<br />
I would normally try to do something crafty to regain control of my world even in a superficial way, but productivity is limited at present since all I do is feed, change, and jiggle the baby, spending far too long watching the world burn via social media on my phone during feeding sessions.<br />
<br />
My ravelry favourites list grows ever longer, though, as I dream of all the beautiful new projects I wish I could start. That's my version of escapism these days.<br />
<br />
If you want to escape into some particularly beautiful things, I urge you to check out the designs of Lucy Hague. I swear that each design she produces is even more stunning than the last. At the moment I am obsessed with <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/uncia">Uncia</a> and <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/iona-9">Iona</a>. One day, maybe!<br />
<br />
Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01932470098845772514noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817453.post-27067265394916954702016-06-12T16:34:00.000+01:002016-06-12T16:46:29.091+01:00The delicate artHow does the most common piece of unsolicited parenting advice go? "Knit while the baby sleeps." (Wait, that's not the advice you remember?) <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV-NYEEC9NTPnrE8zrjhaXjz18MQbGTuk5jPTOt4JCzGH5SYzuTxXOPgIPyZ6-3Apac_CZEl54Ff6K7p2teNQrS7hDGRfySTljeKccoc04FQZJz7GuPptmOLxdYzSirVyMQqAO/s1600/IMG_20160612_160016635.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV-NYEEC9NTPnrE8zrjhaXjz18MQbGTuk5jPTOt4JCzGH5SYzuTxXOPgIPyZ6-3Apac_CZEl54Ff6K7p2teNQrS7hDGRfySTljeKccoc04FQZJz7GuPptmOLxdYzSirVyMQqAO/s640/IMG_20160612_160016635.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Easier said than done. When the baby is sleeping I'm usually trying to eat or shower or sleep or do mundane household tasks. Or we're on the way from point A to point B - he often sleeps in the pram. Needless to say I haven't done a huge amount of knitting in baby Bean's* first month of life.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Not his real name.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span>
I hear some people manage to knit while nursing. I'm not sure I'm coordinated enough, but next time I'm using circular needles, I'll give it a try. At the moment my only active project is Elijah on DPNs, and I'm nervous about dropping a DPN point-first into an ear or something. (See aforementioned uncoordinated nature.) I'm onto the second arm, though, so the end is in sight. A small circumference means that even if I only do a few stitches at a time I make noticeable progress.<br />
<br />
So that's where I'm at with my knitting. I do browse Ravelry a huge amount during 3 am feeds (and 4, 5, and 6 am etc), queuing and favouriting things I won't have time to make for the next 10 years, but hey!Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01932470098845772514noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817453.post-39707543894192249222016-05-23T20:12:00.000+01:002016-05-23T20:12:45.426+01:00FO: Torrent SocksI did manage to finish something for myself during all the baby knits. Just in time for warm(ish) weather I have a new pair of woolly socks.<br />
<br />
<b>Pattern:</b> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/torrent-2">Torrent socks</a> by Tin Can Knits<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiS1tQ2H8XxruiZqB4uxaJORF4Yse1kwDFkP8FB62ec6WiZ2NJ_d474B2wzqtH6OQDftCX-lflyGHAasaW4AJeQpgKrX1G1R5CHXVwJLQoTInzw4DtZeq186vY8Di_xwRutKqJ/s1600/IMG_20160513_121236830_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiS1tQ2H8XxruiZqB4uxaJORF4Yse1kwDFkP8FB62ec6WiZ2NJ_d474B2wzqtH6OQDftCX-lflyGHAasaW4AJeQpgKrX1G1R5CHXVwJLQoTInzw4DtZeq186vY8Di_xwRutKqJ/s320/IMG_20160513_121236830_HDR.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<b>Yarn:</b> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/the-yarn-yard-cairn">Yarn Yard Cairn</a><br />
<br />
<b>Notes:</b> I started this with the medium size, realized it was way too big, decreased to the small size and kept going. I really enjoyed knitting these, partly because the back half of the socks is stockinette stitch - really interesting lace on the front, a nice break on the back, never boring. I may seek out patterns like this in the future.<br />
<br />
They fit well, but the yarn is not that hard-wearing. After a few washes, it's gone a bit fuzzy. Even with nylon content I don't think it is great for socks. Oh well. It's soft and pretty and if I use it again I'll make a shawl or something instead.<br />
<br />
It's taken me three days to write this post because this is my new reality:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQbCE7_uEKIMODKPugigLg98P2_1OMGokHY0oieQa_CTyF-cQ1XgSbO-Tjz4bpPUxkRFYwQWSrN7WOkWnfLAFE__XOxp1FscMFe00S3LJM54nQn8Ek1xx3Jhv5tAUINGN7sQGm/s1600/IMG_20160513_121256394_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQbCE7_uEKIMODKPugigLg98P2_1OMGokHY0oieQa_CTyF-cQ1XgSbO-Tjz4bpPUxkRFYwQWSrN7WOkWnfLAFE__XOxp1FscMFe00S3LJM54nQn8Ek1xx3Jhv5tAUINGN7sQGm/s320/IMG_20160513_121256394_HDR.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Our baby boy was born 8 May, so he's already two weeks old and we're still not sure what hit us!Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01932470098845772514noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817453.post-36970844815241702772016-05-04T11:49:00.002+01:002016-05-04T11:49:26.178+01:00WIP Wednesday: ElijahJust dropping by to show progress on a new WIP. This one has been waiting for an excuse for years - I even bought a matching project bag a few years back.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s393.photobucket.com/user/exossata/media/knitting2016/elijah_zps4v30w9be.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/exossata/knitting2016/elijah_zps4v30w9be.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo elijah_zps4v30w9be.jpg"></a><br />
<br />
<b>Pattern:</b> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/elijah">Elijah by Ysolda Teague</a><br />
<b>Yarn:</b> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/katia-cotton-100">Katia Cotton 100%</a><br />
<br />
I've made a few things that could be considered 'toys' but never anything for a small person, so I haven't worried much about how they'd hold up with washing. That was definitely a concern for me here - I was less worried about the yarn than I was about how the stuffing would behave in the wash. I don't normally swatch for things that don't need to be a certain size/fit, so I was reluctant to do it for this. But after much avoidance I made a swatch in the form of a small stuffed knitted sausage with the yarn and stuffing I planned on using. Washed it, it held up fine, and off I went! Phew. Swatching vindicated.<br />
<br />
Elijah is knitting up quickly so far. I hope I finish it at least by the time the baby shows interest in grabbing things, if not before the birth... we'll see.Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01932470098845772514noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817453.post-30000768079332054532016-04-29T16:49:00.000+01:002016-04-29T16:49:44.555+01:00More FOs!Two baby-related FOs to show today - one sewing and one knitting.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s393.photobucket.com/user/exossata/media/sewing/IMG_9405_zpsl9sekn6k.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/exossata/sewing/IMG_9405_zpsl9sekn6k.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_9405_zpsl9sekn6k.jpg"/></a><br />
<br />
This one is an exercise in upcycling. I try hard not to hang onto things I don't need anymore, preferring to give them to a charity shop or recycle them if I can. Sometimes things are past their best, though - my husband had some old hoodies from university that he decided to get rid of in our attempts to purge the junk room aka baby's room. They weren't suitable for the charity shop since they were a bit faded and awful-looking, but the fabric was still in good condition otherwise. So, I made a floor mat. It's a bit of a weird shape, but I think it will be useful to toss on the floor and put the baby on. It's soft and fuzzy, since I sewed it together with the fuzzy sides out. It is also reasonably thick because there are two layers of hoodie.<br />
<br />
I didn't use a pattern - just sewed the hoodie bits together and turned inside out. Then, I cut out shapes and sewed them on through both layers of hoodie. This was the first time I tried to appliqué anything. The shapes are meant to cover the backs of embroidered patches that were on the hoodies, plus a few extra to make it look more balanced. I think it turned out okay - it's no thing of beauty, but then I made it to get peed/puked on, so I'm okay with that!<br />
<br />
Next up, a baby knitting classic.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/newborn-vertebrae">Newborn Vertebrae by Kelly Brooker</a> is a free pattern with one size. (Other sizes are available in paid-for versions of the pattern).<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s393.photobucket.com/user/exossata/media/knitting2016/IMG_9404_zpslhuijbvj.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/exossata/knitting2016/IMG_9404_zpslhuijbvj.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_9404_zpslhuijbvj.jpg"/></a><br />
<br />
I'm not sure if an open-fronted cardigan will be useful for this baby, but it might be - I'm told it is great for babies who spit up a lot. We'll see what sort of baby we end up with. It uses a minuscule amount of yarn, so I used some cotton from my stash that just keeps on giving. I've had some <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/sandnes-garn-mandarin-petit">Sandes Garn Mandarin Petit</a> in my stash for a long time: first I made <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/notpanicking/decimal">Decimal</a> with it, then with leftovers I made a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/notpanicking/little-sisters-dress-kjole-til-lillesster">Little Sisters Dress</a>, and I still had enough left over to make this cardigan. Now I truly have a tiny amount left - just enough to make one or two accent stripes in something, probably. Between all these different projects, I forgot that I had two different dyelots of the yarn - for Decimal I alternated skeins every few rows, according to my ravelry notes. I didn't remember this fact until I added a second ball of yarn while knitting Vertebrae... and discovered that in a different light there is a slight stripe visible. I almost wish it was more pronounced, since it would look like intentional colour-blocking! Whatever.<br />
<br />
Won't be long now until I get to meet this baby, so I have another baby thing on the needles that might not get finished in time. Then again, I might still have a few more weeks to go, so maybe I will! More on that in another post.Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01932470098845772514noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817453.post-12335692147304766282016-04-24T19:40:00.000+01:002016-04-24T19:42:21.700+01:00A little sewingHas it been a month since I finished anything? Apparently. I finished a few things all at once in the last few days, but at the moment I only have pictures of one - and for a change it's a sewing FO.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://noodle-head.com/product/divided-basket-pdf-pattern-2">The Divided Basket</a>, by Anna Graham aka Noodlehead<br />
<br />
I've been meaning to make this for ages, and I actually cut out all the fabric a few months ago but stalled because I didn't have the fusible fleece and fusible interfacing required. Then, when I finally went out to buy it my local fabric shop was out, so I stalled again. But! Finally I got all the bits together and it was pretty quick work once I got started.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s393.photobucket.com/user/exossata/media/sewing/IMG_9400_zpsh7ufzrbc.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/exossata/sewing/IMG_9400_zpsh7ufzrbc.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_9400_zpsh7ufzrbc.jpg"/></a><br />
<br />
I didn't do the optional outside pocket, and I did the fabric handles rather than the covered handles.<br />
<br />
Even for a novice like me this was pretty easy, but I had a few difficulties. First, attaching the divider to the lining was super fiddly and I felt like my hands/fingers were way too big to maneuver it all. It worked out in the end, if a bit wonky. Then, the instructions say to fuse interfacing to the fabric first, then fuse the fleece to the interfacing for the exterior of the basket. Fine, except my fusible fleece simply would not fuse to the interfacing. I had to get creative with some extra sewing and it shows through to the outside in some areas. (If you squint you can see it in the seam in the photo below). Next time, I think I'll pick a stiffer fabric to begin with and just skip either the interfacing or the fleece. (I used quilting cotton for this one.) I can see myself making more, since storage is something I desperately need.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s393.photobucket.com/user/exossata/media/sewing/IMG_9397_zpsibjbvgeh.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/exossata/sewing/IMG_9397_zpsibjbvgeh.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_9397_zpsibjbvgeh.jpg"/></a><br />
<br />
When I found this pattern I thought it would be great to store my knitted shawls/hats/gloves etc by the door, since at the moment I just dump them on a tiny table and they fall off onto the floor and it's a mess. Alas, I think this basket is too small for that task - I underestimated how many shawls I have, haha. There are lots of ways I could use it in my house, though. Maybe diapers, as featured in the pattern photos. Or other baby sundries. Or yarn/knitting - I can always use more places to put that stuff.<br />
<br />
Anyway, I'm pleased with this. It's a bit wibbly, but it'll do. <br />
Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01932470098845772514noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817453.post-66406598642853504582016-03-25T14:32:00.001+00:002016-03-25T14:32:47.573+00:00FO Friday! Baby thingsWow, how long has it been since I did FO Friday? A long time.<br />
<br />
Anyway, I finally sewed buttons on some tiny cardigans and so I can share them with the world.<br />
<br />
Here's <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/little-coffee-bean-cardigan">Little Coffee Bean</a> by Elizabeth Smith.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s393.photobucket.com/user/exossata/media/knitting2016/IMG_20160323_121249_zps9fqpvevz.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/exossata/knitting2016/IMG_20160323_121249_zps9fqpvevz.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_20160323_121249_zps9fqpvevz.jpg"/></a><br />
<br />
I used <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/debbie-bliss-cotton-dk">Debbie Bliss Cotton DK</a>, which is really more of a worsted weight yarn. This meant using a looser gauge than intended, because the combination of cotton yarn and tight gauge would have made armour rather than a cardigan. As a result, this sweater is large - technically 6 month size, but I'm pretty sure it's way bigger. That's cool. Hopefully it will fit the small one in an appropriate season.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s393.photobucket.com/user/exossata/media/knitting2016/IMG_20160323_121322_zpsgue9ul9r.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/exossata/knitting2016/IMG_20160323_121322_zpsgue9ul9r.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_20160323_121322_zpsgue9ul9r.jpg"/></a><br />
<br />
These are the cute owl buttons I bought at EYF, in action.<br />
<br />
I ran out of brown yarn, so had to make the button bands narrower than called for, but I think it looks okay.<br />
<br />
Next up: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/puerperium-cardigan">Puerperium by Kelly Brooker</a><br />
<br />
I used <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/rico-design-essentials-cotton-dk">Rico Design Essentials Cotton DK</a>, which is quite a shiny cotton. I have been building a small stash of this since it comes in lots of great colours.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s393.photobucket.com/user/exossata/media/knitting2016/IMG_20160323_121202_zpsrfljsnnn.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/exossata/knitting2016/IMG_20160323_121202_zpsrfljsnnn.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_20160323_121202_zpsrfljsnnn.jpg"/></a><br />
<br />
The free version of this pattern is just sized for a newborn, so that's what I made. I added some colourwork for interest, adapted from a colourwork pattern found in <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Geometric-Knitting-Patterns-Sourcebook-Contemporary/dp/1845435869">Geometric Knitting Patterns by Tina Barrett</a>. Knitting colourwork flat is not my favourite thing ever, but for such a small knit it wasn't so bad.<br />
<br />
Yay for tiny knits! I currently have no baby knits on the needles and am trying to make some headway on some knitting for myself, but I hear the call of tiny quick knits, so I'm sure I'll have something else on the go soon.Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01932470098845772514noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817453.post-441058086461207342016-03-22T10:37:00.000+00:002016-03-22T10:37:47.849+00:00EYF round-upThe Edinburgh Yarn Festival happened and I bought many things. Let's see how I did.<br />
<br />
<b>Plan:</b> buy buttons for two baby cardigans.<br />
<b>Result:</b> two sets of cute buttons from <a href="http://www.textilegarden.com/">Textile Garden</a><br />
<a href="http://s393.photobucket.com/user/exossata/media/knitting2016/IMG_9326_zpsxm3fzprm.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/exossata/knitting2016/IMG_9326_zpsxm3fzprm.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_9326_zpsxm3fzprm.jpg"/></a><br />
I've sewn on the owl buttons and I'm working on the purple ones today. I find sewing buttons so tedious, but the result is worth it. Look for an FO post for these two cardigans soon!<br />
<br />
<b>Plan:</b> buy yarn for <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/liesl">Liesl</a>.<br />
<b>Result:</b> three skeins of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/search#sort=best&query=triskelion">Triskelion</a> Elmet Aran (this particular yarn isn't on Ravelry yet, link is to other yarns from this company)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s393.photobucket.com/user/exossata/media/yarn/IMG_9322_zps8nzofhin.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/exossata/yarn/IMG_9322_zps8nzofhin.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_9322_zps8nzofhin.jpg"/></a><br />
<br />
Triskelion Yarns blew me away and were my favourite discovery of this year. Beautiful rainbow colours in really interesting, gorgeous yarn blends. The one I bought is BFL/Masham. I don't know anything about Masham sheep, but the yarn is fabulous - a bit rustic, but also smooth. Looks to be hard-wearing. The colour is a beautiful forest green that matches some buttons I already have - yay for button stash-down! Can't wait to knit with it and I'd love to try some of their other bases.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s393.photobucket.com/user/exossata/media/knitting2016/IMG_9315_zpskwvmjp7e.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/exossata/knitting2016/IMG_9315_zpskwvmjp7e.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_9315_zpskwvmjp7e.jpg"/></a><br />
Badly lit picture of the fantastic Triskelion stall.<br />
<br />
<b>Plan:</b> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/brands/wollmeise">Wollmeise</a><br />
<b>Result:</b> So much Wollmeise<br />
I thought I'd go for Lace-garn and DK, but in the end I went for <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/wollmeise-lace-garn">Lace-garn</a> and <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/wollmeise-pure-100-merino-superwash">Pure</a>.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s393.photobucket.com/user/exossata/media/yarn/IMG_9321_zpsrlyetwb7.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/exossata/yarn/IMG_9321_zpsrlyetwb7.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_9321_zpsrlyetwb7.jpg"/></a><br />
The lace yarn I bought is the purplest I've ever seen. (Do not be fooled if the photo makes it look blue). Colourway: Der letzte versuch. This will be some kind of cardigan, pattern to be determined. It feels heavy for laceweight - more of a light 4-ply.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s393.photobucket.com/user/exossata/media/yarn/IMG_9324_zps6cvffbbi.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/exossata/yarn/IMG_9324_zps6cvffbbi.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_9324_zps6cvffbbi.jpg"/></a><br />
Wollmeise Pure in the Sabrina colourway. This is actually teal, not grey/blue/green. TEAL. SO MUCH TEAL. Two skeins should be enough for a sweater, and I'm thinking of making <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/low-tide-6">Low Tide</a> by Tin Can Knits. (I bought the book containing this pattern at EYF last year, so things come full circle.) I got these skeins wound by my good friends volunteering at the yarn-winding station - £1 per skein, proceeds went to the <a href="http://www.teapot-trust.org/">Teapot Trust</a>, a charity providing art therapy to chronically ill children. Everybody wins!<br />
<br />
Browsing the Wollmeise stall was certainly an experience.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s393.photobucket.com/user/exossata/media/knitting2016/IMG_9312_zpseekm453s.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/exossata/knitting2016/IMG_9312_zpseekm453s.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_9312_zpseekm453s.jpg"/></a><br />
<br />
So much colour! Gaaah! I stopped there first just because of the location, and I almost didn't leave... I'm excited to knit with the yarn I bought since it's beautiful and feels so different from other merino yarns I've tried. It's very sturdy and tightly-spun. We'll see how it knits up.<br />
<br />
<b>Plan:</b> buy a gradient set. <br />
<b>Result:</b> a cake of merino/silk laceweight from <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/brands/bilum-hand-dyed-yarns">Bilum</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://s393.photobucket.com/user/exossata/media/yarn/IMG_9325_zpsd4fwldbc.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/exossata/yarn/IMG_9325_zpsd4fwldbc.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_9325_zpsd4fwldbc.jpg"/></a><br />
<br />
This is <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/bilum-hand-dyed-yarns-pukpuk">Pukpuk</a> by Bilum, a Hungarian yarn company I'd never heard of. They had lots of gorgeous gradients, as well as solids available. I'm not sure what this will become, but I've had a running list of gradient-suitable shawl patterns, so will look to that first. I don't often knit with laceweight, but I have enjoyed doing so in the past.<br />
<br />
<b>Verdict:</b> it's a miracle! I pretty much stuck to my plans, even if I did go over my suggested budget by a little. I didn't come home with any single skeins of sock yarn this time, though there was much loveliness to be seen and prodded around the marketplace. Guess I'm satisfied with the loveliness in my house at the moment. Though I'd better get knitting if I want there to be space for more EYF yarn next year...Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01932470098845772514noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817453.post-92077762695465331292016-03-18T10:30:00.000+00:002016-03-18T10:30:19.111+00:00Edinburgh Yarn Fest planningI'm heading out to the <a href="http://www.edinyarnfest.com/">Edinburgh Yarn Festival</a> later today. This is pretty much the highlight of my yarn year, and I am so lucky it's local to me. I always find these events a bit overwhelming, though, so I try to plan before I get there... and then I usually fail to stick to my plans and come home with all sorts of unexpected lovelies. Seriously, the vendor list for this year is so insane. Going to try not to hyperventilate when I get through the gates.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://goodenoughknits.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/edinburgh-yarn-festival-2015.html">Last year</a> I was on stash-down when the yarn fest rolled around, but yarn fest purchases were on my list of exemptions. I still managed to come home with four single skeins of beautiful sock yarn that I have not yet used. (I used a little bit of one of them for a baby hat - and I have plans for the rest of it, but otherwise these lovelies are still waiting for projects.)<br />
<br />
Let's take a look at my best-laid plans for this year.<br />
<br />
<b>Non-yarn items:</b><br />
<br />
<b>Buttons for two baby cardigans</b>. <br />
My <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/notpanicking/puerperium-cardigan">Puerperium</a> and <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/notpanicking/little-coffee-bean-cardigan">Little Coffee Bean</a> are both entirely finished except for buttons, and typically I have nothing suitable in my rapidly expanding button box. There are a few vendors there that will have buttons - I'm particularly excited to check out <a href="http://www.textilegarden.com/">Textile Garden</a> - so I'm sure I'll find some great things.<br />
<br />
<b>ALL THE YARNZ:</b><br />
<br />
<b>Yarn for <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/liesl">Liesl</a></b>.<br />
Ever since I frogged my old version of this cardigan years ago because it had stretched out, I've been meaning to make another. With my current shape, I think it would be super useful - for the first time in my life I actually think I look good in cardigans that are only buttoned at the top! If I add buttons all the way down like I did last time, it should continue to be useful once the baby is out. Plus, I remember it being a really quick knit, and I would love to make a quick sweater for myself before the baby arrives. As a bonus, I have some great buttons for this already, so I'll try and get some yarn to match so I can work on using my button stash.<br />
<br />
<b>Some <a href="https://www.rohrspatzundwollmeise.de/en/">Wollemeise</a>.</b> <br />
This is my first chance to buy Wollemeise in person. Not going to pass this up. I'd like to pick up a skein of lace, since the yardage on those is amazing and I might be able to make a whole sweater out of it. I'm also considering getting some DK for a second attempt at <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/even-flow">Evenflow</a>, but we'll see what I can find!<br />
<br />
<b>A gradient set. </b><br />
I'll see what I see, but there's bound to be something beautiful. I've had my eye on several patterns for gradient shawls etc lately, so I'd like to get some suitable yarn.<br />
<br />
I'm looking forward to checking out Kate Davies new yarn, as well as Ysolda's, and I'm sure to spend some quality time perusing the Old Maiden Aunt stall.<br />
<br />
Notice I have no "single skeins of sock yarn" listed on my shortlist. Will that stick? Unlikely. I'll report back with my success / massive failure later on!<br />
<br />
Are you going to EYF? If you see me, give me a shout. (I'm the one in the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/notpanicking/raiun">Raiun cardigan</a> with a 33-week bump!) <br />
<br />
<a href="http://s393.photobucket.com/user/exossata/media/2016/IMG_9307_zpsbv6htrhx.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/exossata/2016/IMG_9307_zpsbv6htrhx.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_9307_zpsbv6htrhx.jpg"/></a><br />
<br />
Bring on the yarn fumes!<br />
Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01932470098845772514noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817453.post-17811969306429592842016-03-13T15:00:00.002+00:002016-03-13T16:42:36.188+00:00WIP: Torrent SocksThought I'd give a proper update on one of the <a href="http://goodenoughknits.blogspot.co.uk/2016/02/blue-period.html">Blue Period projects</a> I alluded to before.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s393.photobucket.com/user/exossata/media/knitting2016/IMG_9304_zpsz4bwyjhz.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/exossata/knitting2016/IMG_9304_zpsz4bwyjhz.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_9304_zpsz4bwyjhz.jpg"/></a><br />
<br />
(They're blue, but not THIS blue. Photo colour does not correspond to real life.)<br />
<br />
My <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/torrent-2">Torrent</a> socks are proceeding apace. Given how many projects I have on the go, I'm actually surprised by how quickly these are going. Nearly at the heels! The back of the ankle is all stockinette; I think this helps with the speed as well as making them very enjoyable to knit. I get bored easily with all-stockinette projects, and bogged down with nothing-but-lace, so these are the best of both!<br />
<br />
Ever had a project go more quickly than you expected?<br />
Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01932470098845772514noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817453.post-32585237448596977192016-03-06T12:48:00.000+00:002016-03-06T12:48:48.959+00:00What does making mean to me?<br />
A Playful Day is back with her podcast, and has a new <a href="http://www.aplayfulday.com/blog/2016/2/23/season-1-episode-1-the-makers-year">creativity/blogging challenge</a>.<br />
<br />
<b>What does making mean to YOU?</b><br />
<br />
Making means different things to me at different times in my life.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s393.photobucket.com/user/exossata/media/2016/IMG_9293_zpsrqbk96hm.jpg.html" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo IMG_9293_zpsrqbk96hm.jpg" border="0" src="http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/exossata/2016/IMG_9293_zpsrqbk96hm.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Food tins - washed, dried, and ready for upcycling</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Lately, making confers on me a sense of control. For example, 2016 has brought some unexpected work-related changes that have left me feeling frustrated and disenfranchised. There is nothing I can do to change this situation for the foreseeable future, so I've been left feeling powerless and stuck. However, even when life gets chaotic I know that I at least control what I'm producing creatively. (Of course, creativity has an element of chance / serendipity / unpredictability, and that's cool too.) I need to remind myself of this at particularly stressful times; I often find stress impedes my creative impulses, even though intellectually I know that I'll feel better about things if I get out there and make stuff. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s393.photobucket.com/user/exossata/media/2016/IMG_9294_zpsmkfinph5.jpg.html" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo IMG_9294_zpsmkfinph5.jpg" border="0" src="http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/exossata/2016/IMG_9294_zpsmkfinph5.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drainage holes hammered through the bottom, decorated with washi-esque tape</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
On that note, I've been using my knitting and other creative pursuits lately as manifestations of my own choice. I can choose what I make and when. I have the power to create a physical object with my own hands. I can create something beautiful that is also useful to me. Making gives me something else to focus on, other than the things I can't control.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s393.photobucket.com/user/exossata/media/2016/IMG_9297_zps4oeezakl.jpg.html" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo IMG_9297_zps4oeezakl.jpg" border="0" src="http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/exossata/2016/IMG_9297_zps4oeezakl.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tada! New pots for some wee succulents</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<i>Images in this post are from this morning's attempt to turn food tins into plant pots. I'm rather pleased with them, but we'll see if the washi tape gets ruined if I spill when watering...</i><br />
<br />
Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01932470098845772514noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817453.post-64048903428465208552016-02-20T12:01:00.002+00:002016-02-20T12:01:32.544+00:00Blue period<a href="http://s393.photobucket.com/user/exossata/media/knitting2016/IMG_9281_zpsc0qrt8nr.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/exossata/knitting2016/IMG_9281_zpsc0qrt8nr.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_9281_zpsc0qrt8nr.jpg"/></a><br />
<br />
These are my current WIPs. Apparently I'm in my blue period? (To be fair I love blue and use it a lot, but didn't realize until now that all my WIPs were similarly dark blue.)<br />
<br />
In the pile is a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/puerperium-cardigan">Puerperium</a> baby cardigan in navy blue and pink-purple cotton, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/pecan-crush">Pecan Crush</a> cardigan in my reclaimed BFL/Alpaca yarn from my <a href="http://goodenoughknits.blogspot.co.uk/2016/01/unmaking.html">last pos</a>t, and <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/torrent-2">Torrent socks</a> in lovely Scottish <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/the-yarn-yard-cairn">hand-dyed yarn</a> I've had in my stash since moving to Scotland in the first place. (Stash-match FTW!)<br />
<br />
Three WIPs makes me a little antsy, but I am enjoying them all. I'll finish the baby knit soon enough which will bring me down to two long-haul projects, though don't be surprised if I immediately cast-on another tiny quick baby project!<br />
<br />
Do you have colour themes in your knitting without even realizing it?Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01932470098845772514noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817453.post-28832405981605680832016-01-20T15:25:00.002+00:002016-01-20T15:25:39.155+00:00UnmakingThe last few days I've been working on some long overdue frogging.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s393.photobucket.com/user/exossata/media/knitting2016/IMG_9224_zpssac13jlk.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/exossata/knitting2016/IMG_9224_zpssac13jlk.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_9224_zpssac13jlk.jpg"/></a><br />
<br />
That blue blob was the entire body portion of a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/cria">Cria</a> cardigan. It was supposed to be half my entry to the Outfit Along of 2015, run by <a href="http://untangling-knots.com/">Untangling Knots</a>. Despite attempting to pay attention to measurements and gauge, I neglected to notice that the sleeves were way too big until after I'd finished the body. Since This sweater is a top-down, seamless-set-in-sleeves type deal, once I'd finished the body there was no easy way to go back and fix the sleeve caps. If I'd been going for SUPER POOFY sleeves I would have just kept going, but that's not what I wanted for this cardigan. So I shoved it in a corner for months while I worked on other things, unable to bear the prospect of unraveling all my work.<br />
<br />
I dug it out again in the spirit of sustainability. Though I'm not officially stashing down this year, I would like to be more mindful of my yarn purchases and more mindful of choosing and using the yarn I already have. That means frogging projects that aren't going anywhere and finding a new use for the yarn. Once repurposed, this yarn will become something else - reused, returned to circulation, not abandoned to dust / dark closet corners. <br />
<br />
My first act of making in the Maker's Year is unmaking. <br />
<br />
This post is part of <a href="http://www.aplayfulday.com/the-makers-year/">The Maker's Year</a> hosted by A Playful Day.<br />
<br />
In related news, I've joined Twitter. (The last one to do so, ever?) You can find me <a href="https://twitter.com/goodenoughmakes">@goodenoughmakes</a>. It's still a bit bare bones over there, but I'll come up with something to put there soon.Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01932470098845772514noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817453.post-62237409404147518522016-01-16T21:47:00.000+00:002016-01-16T21:47:15.711+00:00Baby FOs: Gidday and ZiggingTime for an FO round-up! First, the last FO of 2015.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s393.photobucket.com/user/exossata/media/Knitting2015/8aeb58c8-be5d-4da5-b233-92f5e348ad69_zpsfmxumt3z.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/exossata/Knitting2015/8aeb58c8-be5d-4da5-b233-92f5e348ad69_zpsfmxumt3z.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo 8aeb58c8-be5d-4da5-b233-92f5e348ad69_zpsfmxumt3z.jpg"/></a><br />
<br />
<b>Pattern:</b> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/gidday-baby">Gidday Baby</a> by Georgie Hallam<br />
<br />
<b>Yarn:</b> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/rico-design-essentials-cotton-dk">Rico Design Essentials Cotton DK</a><br />
<br />
<b>Mods:</b> Added more button holes, attempted to close YOs in yoke with knitting through back loop, though some of them still show.<br />
<br />
<b>Notes:</b> Super cute, super quick knit. I enjoyed making this. I made the 3 month size, with an awareness that babies (like bigger folk) don't necessarily comply with size standards, so I hope it fits at some point in a relevant season. Cotton yarn was my choice because this baby is due in spring... but spring in a place that doesn't get particularly warm, so cardigans are useful year-round. And, surprise surprise: it's teal. My husband teases me about my love for teal and when he saw this he joked that this baby is going to be dressed exactly like me. So I told him I'd make something green and black to match him.<br />
<br />
This next one is green on green, though. First FO of 2016!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s393.photobucket.com/user/exossata/media/knitting2016/IMG_9206_zpshjlavmub.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/exossata/knitting2016/IMG_9206_zpshjlavmub.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_9206_zpshjlavmub.jpg"/></a><br />
<br />
<b>Pattern:</b> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/zigging-hat">Zigging</a> by Sarah Ronchetti<br />
<br />
<b>Yarn:</b> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/easyknitscouk-deeply-wicked">Easyknits Deeply Wicked</a> and <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/old-maiden-aunt-merino-superwash-4ply">Old Maiden Aunt Merino Superwash 4 ply</a><br />
<br />
<b>Mods:</b> Big ol' pom-pom!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s393.photobucket.com/user/exossata/media/knitting2016/IMG_9207_zpsmqu8id9g.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/exossata/knitting2016/IMG_9207_zpsmqu8id9g.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_9207_zpsmqu8id9g.jpg"/></a><br />
<br />
<b>Notes:</b> Not much to say about this one. Pretty quick, and got me back into the rhythm of colourwork since I haven't done any in a while. I have some colourwork things for myself I want to make soon, so I had better start them before my hands forget how to hold one colour in each hand.Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01932470098845772514noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3817453.post-71164128941136060092016-01-10T14:33:00.001+00:002016-01-10T14:33:27.959+00:002016 Crafting GoalsI'd like to say that 2016 is the year I'll get back into blogging in a committed way, or the year I try National Sweater Knitting Month again, or something of the sort. However for a number of reasons I think this year is going to be chaotic and I don't want to over commit myself and then feel bad later. It may be I'll have loads of extra knitting time, but it's also likely I will be sleep-deprived and never have any time to myself. There is a lot of unpredictability in one small package heading my way in early May and I'm not sure how anyone in my household is going to cope with it. (This is me announcing my pregnancy, btw. Open-fronted cardigans FTW!)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s393.photobucket.com/user/exossata/media/2016/22weeks_zpsti2uqcly.jpg.html" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo 22weeks_zpsti2uqcly.jpg" border="0" src="http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/exossata/2016/22weeks_zpsti2uqcly.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me last week at 22 weeks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I’m going to set a few hopefully achievable goals nonetheless.<br />
<br />
<b>1. Knit one sweater for myself</b><br />
I'm already finding it easy to focus entirely on baby knits - So small! So quick! So cute! I want to make sure I take time to make something for myself, even if it is only one thing.<br />
<br />
<b>2. Knit socks for my mom</b><br />
She's due a handknitted gift this year and she requested socks, so socks it is. I think I can manage a pair of socks before the end of the year, but I guess we'll see!<br />
<br />
<b>3. Sew something wearable (for myself or for the baby)</b><br />
I have attempted to sew a few wearables so far in my short sewing career and none have turned out to be particularly useful to me for various reasons. I like to change that this year and maybe even sew something for the baby.<br />
<br />
So, there are my goals for 2016. Notice how I didn't say stash down...Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01932470098845772514noreply@blogger.com5