tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91741360891165314472024-02-28T12:41:34.209+00:00eggbird designsKimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07078481071614088318noreply@blogger.comBlogger76125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9174136089116531447.post-56067340487981858002017-05-09T13:22:00.001+01:002017-05-09T13:22:54.290+01:00NEW BLOGHi everyone!<br />
<br />
I can't believe it's been 5 years since my last post! Wow, time really does fly!<br />
<br />
If you're interested in following more of my adventures, I've just set up a new blog at <a href="http://149stitches.blogspot.co.uk/">stitch149</a>. There isn't much there yet, but I plan to continue sharing my yarny projects, as well as dipping my toe into sewing and homemade cosmetics :)<br />
<br />
Hope you can join me there! Do say hello, I'm always on the lookout for more blogs to follow :D<br />
<br />
KimKimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07078481071614088318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9174136089116531447.post-44236283266472891042012-10-21T14:51:00.000+01:002012-10-21T14:51:02.209+01:00At the Beach<div style="text-align: justify;">
Such a lovely day today. Proper autumn weather - warm in the sunshine, but damp and frosty in the shade. </div>
<div>
<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kPirNHifaUE/UIP3o81UUFI/AAAAAAAACrc/K0Z_Kuzlv5E/s1600/DSCF2463.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kPirNHifaUE/UIP3o81UUFI/AAAAAAAACrc/K0Z_Kuzlv5E/s400/DSCF2463.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This being my favourite kind of weather, I set off for a walk with my camera and my current WIP and headed to the "beach". This is actually the shoreline of the Menai Straits in Bangor, but it's lovely to hear the sound of the waves all the same :)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DWCHaI0-TJ4/UIP6GRebK4I/AAAAAAAACrs/u4BUifvxSss/s1600/rikke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DWCHaI0-TJ4/UIP6GRebK4I/AAAAAAAACrs/u4BUifvxSss/s320/rikke.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
At the moment I'm working on a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/rikke-hat" target="_blank">Rikke</a> hat in King Cole Mirage DK. This picture was taken a couple of days ago, I'm just approaching the crown shaping now. Although I like the way it's turning out, I'll admit that I passed my tolerance for garter-in-the-round about 4 inches ago... It's always very tempting to think "well surely it's about right?" and CO too early, but I've experienced something of an epiphany recently...</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QqQJCG4rul0/UIP7igdyneI/AAAAAAAACr0/RTbgbDEbr9s/s1600/picmonkeyportrait.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QqQJCG4rul0/UIP7igdyneI/AAAAAAAACr0/RTbgbDEbr9s/s320/picmonkeyportrait.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
...I've actually been finishing projects!! I don't know what's come over me, but I finished both this <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/honey-cowl" target="_blank">honey cowl</a> and a pair of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/fable-fingerless-mitts" target="_blank">Fables</a> ON THE SAME DAY and in time for Wool Week! Shocker, I know!! But being able to actually wear them and feel the benefit of them when it's cold out has definitely spurred me on to finish more projects within a sensible time frame.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But having said that, I've just ordered the yarn to make a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/lamour-slipover" target="_blank">Lamour Slipover</a> and I have visions that I'll still be knitting it this time next year!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
x</div>
Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07078481071614088318noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9174136089116531447.post-2082249862219532192012-09-23T14:13:00.000+01:002012-09-23T14:13:37.646+01:00When Knitting Goes Bad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iprIKT17Acs/UF8JHGP3iZI/AAAAAAAACrM/qp4Ax9TDfa0/s1600/DSCF2375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iprIKT17Acs/UF8JHGP3iZI/AAAAAAAACrM/qp4Ax9TDfa0/s320/DSCF2375.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sometimes it's possible to get a piece of knitting SO wrong that it produces this face. What have I done to deserve such a monster (other than, you know, get the decreases wrong and then skip a massive chunk of earflap? But <i>apart</i> from that?! :P)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's meant to be one of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/capucine" target="_blank">these</a>. See, pretty pretty hat, not horrific marshmallow bonnet.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Oh well. Start again!</div>
Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07078481071614088318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9174136089116531447.post-4797157236573929882012-09-10T14:02:00.001+01:002012-09-10T14:02:44.503+01:00Fleece to FO: 2 - The ProcessingYou can find out more about the project <a href="http://eggbirddesigns.blogspot.co.uk/p/fleece-to-fo-project.html" target="_blank">here</a><br />
<br />
=<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'll admit that this project has not happened quite in the way I imagined. It's been a very stressful couple of months - not something that really needs sharing here in any detail - but for a long time this project has had to take a back seat to other more pressing things.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
That said, yesterday I took a breath and opened the bag I've been storing the washed fleece in.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JqcIMqOxBCY/UE3dRBEZceI/AAAAAAAACqY/zCJcAEsnyuE/s1600/DSCF2323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JqcIMqOxBCY/UE3dRBEZceI/AAAAAAAACqY/zCJcAEsnyuE/s400/DSCF2323.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
My goodness, there's a lot of it!! I'm happy to report that it still has a rather pleasing shampoo-aroma (I had been a bit worried about mustyness considering how long I've left it).</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fyl7HENzPYE/UE3dXQ5_QpI/AAAAAAAACqg/bMR02J3lW1Y/s1600/DSCF2325.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fyl7HENzPYE/UE3dXQ5_QpI/AAAAAAAACqg/bMR02J3lW1Y/s400/DSCF2325.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
With that much fibre, there's not much to do other than get stuck in. I had thought that with carding I'd be in much more familiar territory than with the sorting and washing of the fleece. I've worked plenty of fibre using these cards, so I was expecting it to be pretty straightforward.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ODcx00BTP5g/UE3ddaYpF7I/AAAAAAAACqo/rafZf25yOZg/s1600/DSCF2328.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ODcx00BTP5g/UE3ddaYpF7I/AAAAAAAACqo/rafZf25yOZg/s400/DSCF2328.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
What I actually discovered is just how different preparing hand-processed fleece is compared to the commercial stuff I've been used to. I'm reluctant to say that I prefer one to the other, they're just very very different experiences.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I think perhaps one of the main things I've noticed with this fleece is that it feels very dry to the touch. It's a coarse fibre (and I'll admit I've been spoiled thus far with merino and bfl and other such treats), but that's ok.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kCNoG1urPGQ/UE3dkF2ne3I/AAAAAAAACqw/29aGoqCHz98/s1600/DSCF2335.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kCNoG1urPGQ/UE3dkF2ne3I/AAAAAAAACqw/29aGoqCHz98/s320/DSCF2335.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="text-align: justify;">I worked 10 batts in total, and used 2 batts each to make 5 rolags. (If you're not sure about the terminology, have a read of </span><a href="http://www.naughtyknitterz.com/what-is-rolag-by-michele-grim/" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">this</a><span style="text-align: justify;"> page).</span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If I'm honest, I stopped at 5 out of boredom. Utter boredom. Carding is possibly my least favourite stage of the fibre-prep process. Well, apart from picking (which you may have noticed I've left out completely), which has got to be one of the most tedious jobs ever invented. My intention had been to card the whole lot into rolags ready for spinning, to keep each stage separate. But, as I looked into the bag and realised I'd not even made a small hole in the amount of fleece that needs sorting, I soon abandoned that ridiculous notion and got out the spinning wheel (note that when in any doubt, this is always the right course of action).</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cERX4OHcf8Q/UE3dqCyRXhI/AAAAAAAACq4/66dGYGaIYPw/s1600/DSCF2340.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cERX4OHcf8Q/UE3dqCyRXhI/AAAAAAAACq4/66dGYGaIYPw/s320/DSCF2340.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
MUCH more fun! And the 5 rolags added up to one full bobbin's worth of singles, so really I can just pretend it was all intentional...:P</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
As you can see, the yarn it's producing is pretty hairy and fuzzy. There's nothing really wrong with this - I never intended this wool to be made into something worn as a garment, so there's no need for it to be next-to-the-skin-soft. In fact, the coarseness may actually be an advantage considering what I have in mind, but that, I'm afraid, is a tale for next time ;)</div>
Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07078481071614088318noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9174136089116531447.post-60742911801276384422012-09-09T11:51:00.003+01:002012-09-09T11:51:23.085+01:00Starling<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QzqrGboywRM/UExx0Lsb_HI/AAAAAAAACqA/Ng7oOtEmrmQ/s1600/122_FUJI1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QzqrGboywRM/UExx0Lsb_HI/AAAAAAAACqA/Ng7oOtEmrmQ/s320/122_FUJI1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've been experimenting again. This time, working on dyeing different fibres and then blending them together to see what I get. Above is a 60/40 Merino/Alpaca blend, and below an Oatmeal BFL/Alpaca blend in the same proportions.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TniVyThyURY/UExyC1QwOtI/AAAAAAAACqI/E-dEgsA2UP8/s1600/122_FUJI2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TniVyThyURY/UExyC1QwOtI/AAAAAAAACqI/E-dEgsA2UP8/s320/122_FUJI2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
They're both lovely and soft, and very light. I'm learning a lot about spinning recently (like to remember to check the Scotch tension rather than fight against the wheel!!), and the absolute best news is that as the holiday season at work is now over, I'll have an extra day off a week which I can dedicate to spinning and learning more about fibre processing.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.fibregarden.ca/shopfg/images/BOOK-InShCl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://www.fibregarden.ca/shopfg/images/BOOK-InShCl.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
To that end, I've ordered <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/In-Sheeps-Clothing-Handspinners-Guide/dp/1931499381/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1347187507&sr=8-2" target="_blank">In Sheep's Clothing: A Handspinner's Guide to Wool</a> from Amazon which I'm really looking forward to geeking out about ;) Hopefully I'll learn enough that I can start adding some handspun to my <a href="http://eggbirddesigns.etsy.com/" target="_blank">etsy shop</a> soon!</div>
Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07078481071614088318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9174136089116531447.post-24773586354185103552012-08-23T13:36:00.000+01:002012-08-23T13:36:16.481+01:00And the winner is!Step up <a href="http://queenofkingsknitting.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Queen of Kings!</a> You are the winner of the eggbird @Etsy giveaway!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XI-VYeYdy5U/UDYjXfBLGWI/AAAAAAAACpw/trk4xWo2YG4/s1600/DSCF2200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XI-VYeYdy5U/UDYjXfBLGWI/AAAAAAAACpw/trk4xWo2YG4/s320/DSCF2200.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I'll be in touch with you very shortly to arrange your prize :)<br />
<br />
Thank you to everyone who took part, I look forward to holding another giveaway soon :) xKimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07078481071614088318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9174136089116531447.post-76567633781110859882012-08-22T09:34:00.001+01:002012-08-22T09:34:12.506+01:00[GIVEAWAY] Reminder<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2l81UxC71cs/UDSYD-d-YAI/AAAAAAAACpg/hkz0v-3Tc44/s1600/Collages.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2l81UxC71cs/UDSYD-d-YAI/AAAAAAAACpg/hkz0v-3Tc44/s320/Collages.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Don't forget you only have until 9pm BST tonight (22nd August) to enter into the eggbird giveaway to win FREE YARN!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For more info about how to enter, visit <a href="http://eggbirddesigns.blogspot.co.uk/2012/08/eggbirddesigns-etsy-giveaway.html" target="_blank">this blog post</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Good luck! :D</div>
Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07078481071614088318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9174136089116531447.post-12835230769771135472012-08-16T11:14:00.002+01:002012-08-16T11:16:22.426+01:00eggbirddesigns @Etsy [GIVEAWAY]<div style="text-align: center;">
<script src="http://www.etsy.com/assets/js/etsy_mini_shop.js" type="text/javascript"></script><script type="text/javascript">new Etsy.Mini(7085785,'thumbnail',4,3,0,'http://www.etsy.com');</script></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Pesky ol' IRL... once again I have exciting news, and I've had to wait a whole week to announce it (scandalous!) But - fanfare please...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
eggbirddesigns is now available through <a href="http://www.eggbirddesigns.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Etsy</a>!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
At the moment, there's a range of hand-dyed sock yarns in stock. Coming soon will be hand-dyed fibres and hand-spun yarns, as well as some other fluffy-stuff! :)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And the best news is that to celebrate, I'm holding a giveaway! <b>The winner will receive one skein of their choosing from the shop</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Want to enter? Of course you do! All you need to do is:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Re-blog this post: link back to this post via your blog, and leave a message here to tell me you've done so</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
OR</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Retweet <a href="https://twitter.com/EggbirdDesigns/status/236043487705980928" target="_blank">this message</a> on twitter</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
(or you can do both for an extra chance to win).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>The terms and conditions and such</u></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The winner will receive one skein of their choice from my etsy shop. P+P will be free for those living in the UK - entrants from other countries are more than welcome to join in, so long as they don't mind paying postage as listed on the shop page.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Please make sure you comment here if you have re-blogged, otherwise I won't know to add your name to the hat!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Please also make sure you leave some sort of contact details - either an email address or Ravelry name - so that I can get in touch if you win</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The giveaway closes on <b>Wednesday 22nd August at 9pm BST</b>, and the winner will be announced shortly after.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
GOOD LUCK EVERYONE :)</div>
Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07078481071614088318noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9174136089116531447.post-60404017399270501592012-07-25T10:35:00.000+01:002012-07-25T10:35:14.098+01:00A Spin Thing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Remember when I used to be a knitter? ;) All I want to do recently is sit at the wheel and spin... SO relaxing :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AZn32jaiYMA/UA-8liUOsLI/AAAAAAAACmQ/Ufzt00b4LNw/s1600/DSCF1882.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AZn32jaiYMA/UA-8liUOsLI/AAAAAAAACmQ/Ufzt00b4LNw/s400/DSCF1882.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y5sEzp_ixDk/UA-8sbsZ_rI/AAAAAAAACmY/vsuOp_Ba0-o/s1600/DSCF1886.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y5sEzp_ixDk/UA-8sbsZ_rI/AAAAAAAACmY/vsuOp_Ba0-o/s400/DSCF1886.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fioi5vFvbKs/UA-8zVWFa1I/AAAAAAAACmg/4DRfyP5ubUE/s1600/DSCF1890.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fioi5vFvbKs/UA-8zVWFa1I/AAAAAAAACmg/4DRfyP5ubUE/s400/DSCF1890.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-quir3PFezAQ/UA-86dgWNSI/AAAAAAAACmo/GHclGhyCi98/s1600/DSCF1892.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-quir3PFezAQ/UA-86dgWNSI/AAAAAAAACmo/GHclGhyCi98/s400/DSCF1892.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sGW25HUWzK8/UA-9BE0T8ZI/AAAAAAAACmw/yyWbC7Kybtw/s1600/DSCF1893.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sGW25HUWzK8/UA-9BE0T8ZI/AAAAAAAACmw/yyWbC7Kybtw/s400/DSCF1893.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F4Ogl4WPEB0/UA-9IYbhWPI/AAAAAAAACm4/bZkp86UzMWA/s1600/DSCF1895.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F4Ogl4WPEB0/UA-9IYbhWPI/AAAAAAAACm4/bZkp86UzMWA/s400/DSCF1895.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07078481071614088318noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9174136089116531447.post-52384765590098370812012-07-15T12:16:00.000+01:002012-07-15T12:16:17.884+01:00Onwards<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white;">It's been a tough old time this last couple of weeks, but thankfully that all seems to be behind me now. Sorry I haven't been keeping up to date much - especially with the Fleece to FO project - but I'm sure many of you know how often "real life" creeps in to interfere with the things we'd rather be doing!!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But let's stay positive! I thought I would share with you some of the things I have been up to wool-wise recently :)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cDYX46vw9wY/UAKZD_esppI/AAAAAAAACl0/0Q-C_7h_pgc/s1600/DSCF1868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cDYX46vw9wY/UAKZD_esppI/AAAAAAAACl0/0Q-C_7h_pgc/s400/DSCF1868.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've very much been getting into dyeing. My fibre of choice is - no surprises here! - merino. I really love LOVE how easy it is to work with and how well it takes up the dyes. This one was dyed using a mixture of food colouring pastes and powdered drink mixes (a Portuguese version of Kool-Aid).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l3E0V8goe2Q/UAKY1zGa-wI/AAAAAAAAClk/do09jdLMgXw/s1600/DSCF1866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l3E0V8goe2Q/UAKY1zGa-wI/AAAAAAAAClk/do09jdLMgXw/s400/DSCF1866.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
You can see that I just went mad tipping a bit of everything into the dye bath!!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KcZNj1JM56Y/UAKYuwfa_LI/AAAAAAAAClc/CCAVUqeQLhA/s1600/DSCF1865.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KcZNj1JM56Y/UAKYuwfa_LI/AAAAAAAAClc/CCAVUqeQLhA/s400/DSCF1865.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This is a slightly more subdued version (although I can't remember now whether this is merino or corriedale...). Again it was dyed using food colourings. I've been aiming to get some reds, but man that's a hard thing to do!!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_ePcLE9b8RA/UAKYndRRrSI/AAAAAAAAClU/7qf5n-23pjM/s1600/DSCF1863.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_ePcLE9b8RA/UAKYndRRrSI/AAAAAAAAClU/7qf5n-23pjM/s400/DSCF1863.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As well as dyeing my own fibre ready for spinning, I've also been using my hand carders to blend ready-dyed fibres together. My website of the moment is <a href="http://www.adelaidewalker.co.uk/" target="_blank">Adelaide Walker</a> - who could possibly resist a colour range as good as <a href="http://www.adelaidewalker.co.uk/dyed-merino-tops" target="_blank">this one</a>??!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This morning I've made a start on plying the blues and pinks above...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dxzuoKGPM8M/UAKZTKVjscI/AAAAAAAACmE/CwiLQ0QtF18/s1600/DSCF1871.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dxzuoKGPM8M/UAKZTKVjscI/AAAAAAAACmE/CwiLQ0QtF18/s400/DSCF1871.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'm getting better at 2-ply I think :)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But what I really want to crack is the notorious N-ply!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-npHMpIpp8fI/UAKZK6mwaXI/AAAAAAAACl8/q9rvv3Qg7JU/s1600/DSCF1869.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-npHMpIpp8fI/UAKZK6mwaXI/AAAAAAAACl8/q9rvv3Qg7JU/s400/DSCF1869.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This was my first attempt, which I'm rather happy with :) I must remember to allow for the fact that the singles will become a 3-ply though! This one is now far too thick for the socks I had planned!!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This afternoon I'm going to carry on plying, and - since it's so sunny outside! - make a start on washing that <a href="http://eggbirddesigns.blogspot.co.uk/2012/06/beddgelert.html" target="_blank">Romney</a> fleece ready for another dyeing sesh ;)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
What are you guys up to this weekend? Would love to hear your woolly tales!!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Kim x</div>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07078481071614088318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9174136089116531447.post-36821336816590506622012-06-18T10:23:00.000+01:002012-06-18T10:23:06.242+01:00Beddgelert<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R2bDu4X0nrQ/T97pvfTD0VI/AAAAAAAACk8/4hKs5punyQY/s1600/DSCF1794.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R2bDu4X0nrQ/T97pvfTD0VI/AAAAAAAACk8/4hKs5punyQY/s400/DSCF1794.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Where do I even start?!</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Having been asked as a guild to demonstrate some spinning for the National Trust, we set off yesterday with a car-full of wheels and headed down into the Welsh mountains. If you've never been to Beddgelert, I'd advise jumping in the car now, because it's utterly <a href="https://www.google.co.uk/search?sugexp=chrome,mod%3D13&q=beddgelert&um=1&ie=UTF-8&hl=en&tbm=isch&source=og&sa=N&tab=wi&ei=IOreT4e3Ia6X0QXN7Kn3Cg&biw=1280&bih=709&sei=IureT8ScLOXP0QX6jqGDCw" target="_blank">beautiful</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Some of the sheep had already been sheared for us when we got there - so we had this amazing Romney fleece to play with:</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_7BgflE7P-U/T97r7U3L4ZI/AAAAAAAAClA/WXIta0mQG5M/s1600/DSCF1778.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_7BgflE7P-U/T97r7U3L4ZI/AAAAAAAAClA/WXIta0mQG5M/s400/DSCF1778.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Ever eager, a couple of the guild members had already set to work carding by the time we arrived...</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yC6iswZdlPI/T97r6yflyvI/AAAAAAAACkQ/3Ywb9QbS1bA/s1600/DSCF1780.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yC6iswZdlPI/T97r6yflyvI/AAAAAAAACkQ/3Ywb9QbS1bA/s320/DSCF1780.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
...although I think at one point Sherry was spinning from the fleece itself (which had me very impressed indeed!!). I've never spun in the grease before, so it was a bit of a learning curve to begin with. I wasn't helped by the fact that my wheel was in a very bad mood indeed!! After a new drive band, a bit of oil and a change of bobbin (!!), I managed to get going and I wasn't too ashamed of the results</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BlTGzD2s4iA/T97r67R2bWI/AAAAAAAACkY/tIqpUP00Ndw/s1600/DSCF1781.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BlTGzD2s4iA/T97r67R2bWI/AAAAAAAACkY/tIqpUP00Ndw/s320/DSCF1781.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
One of my favourite things about the day was that so many youngsters were eager to get involved too...</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lBeQLdeNids/T97sZpU2i7I/AAAAAAAACks/t-0KrPXfhU0/s1600/DSCF1784.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lBeQLdeNids/T97sZpU2i7I/AAAAAAAACks/t-0KrPXfhU0/s320/DSCF1784.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
...either with spinning...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R2bDu4X0nrQ/T97pvfTD0VI/AAAAAAAACk8/4hKs5punyQY/s1600/DSCF1794.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R2bDu4X0nrQ/T97pvfTD0VI/AAAAAAAACk8/4hKs5punyQY/s400/DSCF1794.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
...or shearing (you can just about make out the little hand at the top of the photo there).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I also had a go at shearing - my goodness they make a tough job look easy! I was so scared of nicking the sheep that I was apparently cutting too far away from the skin. The farmer took over and showed me the line that indicated new growth compared to last year's fleece. Fascinating stuff!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MNaRhND68cw/T97saUCm9JI/AAAAAAAAClE/5iRvaVgxB_0/s1600/DSCF1788.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MNaRhND68cw/T97saUCm9JI/AAAAAAAAClE/5iRvaVgxB_0/s400/DSCF1788.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;">"Check out mah new do!"</span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
After lunch, I got talking to a local wood turner who mentioned that he had a dozen drop spindles going spare after someone had cancelled an order a few years ago. Later, he came back and presented me with this:</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z0AqXf_rgFE/T97qD9gd_5I/AAAAAAAACkA/T2DYtvgDxBY/s1600/DSCF1803.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z0AqXf_rgFE/T97qD9gd_5I/AAAAAAAACkA/T2DYtvgDxBY/s320/DSCF1803.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This one works as a bottom whorl, which I've never tried before (making it quite embarrassing when I put the 'drop' in 'drop spindle' trying to show how it worked). I gave him the contact details for the guild - I hope he manages to sell a few of them because they're lovely :)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And then - as if I hadn't already been spoiled enough! - the farmer came round to thank us for our help, and said "there are 5 fleeces round the back - please take them"</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Well, a spinner doesn't need telling twice, so off we all toddled!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-njmy-ArsesU/T97qEsUGTuI/AAAAAAAACkE/WYP1h27Xek8/s1600/DSCF1804.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-njmy-ArsesU/T97qEsUGTuI/AAAAAAAACkE/WYP1h27Xek8/s320/DSCF1804.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So I came back with a new spindle and about 500g of raw Romney fleece to play with :D I'm a very happy chappy indeed!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
x</div>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07078481071614088318noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9174136089116531447.post-12262478542765524822012-06-15T10:15:00.001+01:002012-06-15T10:15:36.822+01:00Wheely Good Fun<div style="text-align: justify;">
You know it's bad when I start breaking out the puns...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nh0b2PczOoY/T9rzGT8pTmI/AAAAAAAAChk/SlhUiKfi1_U/s1600/DSCF1759.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nh0b2PczOoY/T9rzGT8pTmI/AAAAAAAAChk/SlhUiKfi1_U/s400/DSCF1759.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Check it! Me and the Llyn Guild's Ashford Traditional, all happy and in love. But even such love can soon be forgotten - <i>especially</i> now that I have a wheel that is ALL MY VERY OWN!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1Rqw4_XqTpg/T9r0pOT2bAI/AAAAAAAACjc/DCoc-sUqobk/s1600/DSCF1776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1Rqw4_XqTpg/T9r0pOT2bAI/AAAAAAAACjc/DCoc-sUqobk/s400/DSCF1776.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Another Ashford, but a tad darker varnished than the Llyn's. She is an utter BEAUTY! And last night, after some surreptitious dealings in an undisclosed location (ok, Tesco car park...) she became mine all mine. :D</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The proper drive band still needs attaching, so for the moment she's being held together by crochet cotton, but quite frankly it does the job and she runs spectacularly smoothly. The only trouble is a really rather impressive squeak that comes from somewhere in the flyer/bobbin area, but a spot of oil will have that sorted in no time!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mwscAUhGwo8/T9rzxmRlz4I/AAAAAAAACiQ/PoQhOL_ODMk/s1600/DSCF1769.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mwscAUhGwo8/T9rzxmRlz4I/AAAAAAAACiQ/PoQhOL_ODMk/s400/DSCF1769.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So in the meantime I've been playing with the Llyn Guild's wheel, making the singles and then plying this green affair. Look how shockingly overspun that is! In my defence, all that stuff about plying opposite to the single spin came to nothing when the wheel just downright refused to spin anti-clockwise... try as I might, it just would not ply, or put any spin into the yarn, nor would it draw in the yarn for more than an inch before it started to fight back the other way. After 10 minutes of wheel-wrestling I gave up and plied it in the same direction as I'd done the singles - hence the epic overspin. If anyone has any tips on how to solve said issue, I would be forever in their debt!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zdXfpYAIBW0/T9r0ZK-xP3I/AAAAAAAACjM/xnAQAM-RtF8/s1600/DSCF1773.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zdXfpYAIBW0/T9r0ZK-xP3I/AAAAAAAACjM/xnAQAM-RtF8/s400/DSCF1773.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This morning, I've been spinning some lush merino tops I bought at Wonderwool...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-35Qi4Dio8VM/T9r0jc8bVqI/AAAAAAAACjQ/iCsZYwlm-7A/s1600/DSCF1775.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-35Qi4Dio8VM/T9r0jc8bVqI/AAAAAAAACjQ/iCsZYwlm-7A/s400/DSCF1775.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
...really I should be getting ready for work, but meh - I'm sure there's time for just a <i>few</i> more grams?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In related news, this Sunday the Llyn Guild will be doing a spinning demo for the National Trust at Beddgelert to coincide with the sheep on their farm being sheared. If you're in that neck of the woods, do come along and say hi!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Kim x</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
PS: I haven't forgotten about the Fleece to FO thing, but my goodness! Nobody warned me just how dull picking is!</div>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07078481071614088318noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9174136089116531447.post-26675493008726571732012-05-27T16:21:00.001+01:002012-05-27T16:21:10.985+01:00Fleece to FO: 1 - The Sheep<div style="text-align: justify;">
Welcome to my new very-long-term-indeed project, in which I turn a raw sheep's fleece into something spectacular* (*Spectacularity to be confirmed).</div>
<br />
Let me begin at the beginning.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Fv54ptm9vxQ/T8I8_mEl4QI/AAAAAAAAChY/ZF6hqo3LRcc/s1600/DSCF1660.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Fv54ptm9vxQ/T8I8_mEl4QI/AAAAAAAAChY/ZF6hqo3LRcc/s400/DSCF1660.JPG" width="400" /> </a> </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://eggbirddesigns.blogspot.co.uk/2012/05/spinning-ocean.html" target="_blank">Blue Sky knit and natter</a> held a yarn swap. Before I left, I looked at my stash and sighed. There was going to be very little I could stand parting with (except for that ludicrous pink acrylic on the mid-left - the one that taught me to allow for differences in computer screen colours when ordering online).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Luckily, the ladies at that group are a marvelous bunch, and practically foisted a load of sock weight on me (pictures to come soon!). Well I say foisted, but what I really mean is that I claimed them Gollum-"My-Precious" style. The closer I get to large stacks of yarn, the more deranged I become - it's an illness...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Anyway.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
At some point, someone (and I'm not blaming anyone, but I am looking firmly in Rosie's direction) said something like "I've got a fleece at home I don't really want". And then someone else (and this time I just happen to be looking at Claire) said something like "Oh, Kim's always wanted to work with a raw fleece". Which I can't deny.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And so, last Sunday I was confronted with this:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l7S3Q_RWbQA/T8IoXCVoUbI/AAAAAAAAChI/G6qg6H_C2rA/s1600/DSCF1669.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l7S3Q_RWbQA/T8IoXCVoUbI/AAAAAAAAChI/G6qg6H_C2rA/s400/DSCF1669.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Which on closer inspection turned out to be this:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pI4yeb4B6QE/T8IoYbG8u8I/AAAAAAAACfw/xI2HHi6fPjE/s1600/DSCF1673.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pI4yeb4B6QE/T8IoYbG8u8I/AAAAAAAACfw/xI2HHi6fPjE/s320/DSCF1673.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
All of which became a little too much and resulted in this face...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JmX45QV4vxU/T8IoXHY8yDI/AAAAAAAAChM/HKU9sJ6eikE/s1600/DSCF1670.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JmX45QV4vxU/T8IoXHY8yDI/AAAAAAAAChM/HKU9sJ6eikE/s400/DSCF1670.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
... a face which says, "so, er, all those tutorials I watched on youtube aren't gonna help much then". It shouldn't be confused with my "wow, that's a spectacularly ripe smell of sheep" face, because that came later (to start with, I couldn't smell anything at all, and then once I'd been lulled into a false sense of security it got me good and proper).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Actually though, once I got stuck in, I had an absolute blast.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xSLRrbSyB18/T8IoYWndqSI/AAAAAAAACfs/XKUWwsOrIX8/s1600/DSCF1677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xSLRrbSyB18/T8IoYWndqSI/AAAAAAAACfs/XKUWwsOrIX8/s400/DSCF1677.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I started by yanking out anything that was too matted, too dirty or too too scratchy to be of use, and put this aside for composting. Then I picked out most of the big bits of straw/grass/vegetable matter (seriously, this sheeps only hobby was rolling around in hedges)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FtY8bdhLoaI/T8IoZebo52I/AAAAAAAACgI/MoyPdZudXHE/s1600/DSCF1678.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FtY8bdhLoaI/T8IoZebo52I/AAAAAAAACgI/MoyPdZudXHE/s400/DSCF1678.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />That took quite a while, and quite frankly I started getting bored, so I just shoved it all in a big bucket of hot water mixed with shampoo and let it soak for a bit. My thinking was that it would get rid of some of the dirt, as well as start to break down a bit of the lanolin - I was quite surprised at how greasy the fleece started off (which incidently provided me with an answer to a question which has haunted me for years: why don't sheep felt in the rain?)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-heuxPSyEwlE/T8IoX87faoI/AAAAAAAAChQ/evU-T3_iQis/s1600/DSCF1672.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-heuxPSyEwlE/T8IoX87faoI/AAAAAAAAChQ/evU-T3_iQis/s400/DSCF1672.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />Look how happy I look! No wonder my flatmate was laughing at me!<br />
<br />
So after working about a third of the fleece, I left what I'd washed out in the sun to dry, and then put it back into the bucket. Being crazy-busy with work and moving house, I've no time or energy to work on it during the week, but I've now decided that Sundays will be dedicated to working on this mammoth project, one chunk at a time :) You'll be able to follow me here once a week to see how it's coming along.<br />
<br />
Kim :)<br />
<br />
<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07078481071614088318noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9174136089116531447.post-43757768079283798042012-05-27T15:34:00.002+01:002012-05-27T15:34:45.711+01:00Spinning an Ocean<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-09aPw6SI-x4/T8IoZeHfM8I/AAAAAAAACgA/iWoF34rn-1s/s1600/DSCF1701.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-09aPw6SI-x4/T8IoZeHfM8I/AAAAAAAACgA/iWoF34rn-1s/s320/DSCF1701.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Yowzers! It's been a busy old time recently and this week I'll be moving house too. With everything else that needs seeing to during the day, it can be hard to find even the brainpower to craft, let alone the time! I think that's probably why I've found myself turning to projects which rely almost completely on muscle-memory and require the absolute minimum levels of thought or concentration.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fL-flUYjfb0/T8IoZWyt1hI/AAAAAAAACgM/Iu2lyGPTQoE/s1600/DSCF1705.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fL-flUYjfb0/T8IoZWyt1hI/AAAAAAAACgM/Iu2lyGPTQoE/s320/DSCF1705.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For me, spinning definitely comes under this category. I adore the way you can get some really fantastic results without having to invest massive amounts of love and devotion, and the fact that it can be very very forgiving.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TSddwIS0r1E/T8IoaSrrICI/AAAAAAAACgc/mcI_ASaawrY/s1600/DSCF1709.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TSddwIS0r1E/T8IoaSrrICI/AAAAAAAACgc/mcI_ASaawrY/s320/DSCF1709.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I currently have 4 spinning projects on the go, but mainly this week I've been working on this:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G3qj_xAZEjM/T8Ioau9YAZI/AAAAAAAACgU/rLHMpYuAxio/s1600/DSCF1714.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G3qj_xAZEjM/T8Ioau9YAZI/AAAAAAAACgU/rLHMpYuAxio/s320/DSCF1714.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I dyed some white merino and overdyed some grey/blue using blue and green food colourings, making sure I dyed them fairly unevenly so that when I span it, it would all pull out and blend at random. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Aren't the colours just glorious?! They really sing to me somehow. Expect many more tales of hand-dyeing in the future ;)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7MQHZ6aJCjM/T8Iob80NGUI/AAAAAAAACgw/AMVefr6WTi0/s1600/DSCF1718.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7MQHZ6aJCjM/T8Iob80NGUI/AAAAAAAACgw/AMVefr6WTi0/s320/DSCF1718.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I think this also might be some of my best spinning yet! I've managed to avoid some of the problems I've been having with overspin, and this skein is a lot better balanced than my previous have been. This was actually spun using a supported spindle - my first time using anything other than a top-whorl drop - and it certainly took some getting used to! The conventional wisdom is that the yarn on a supported spindle is less prone to breaking since it doesn't have to support the weight as it twists. As usual, I'm going against the grain - this was snapping all over the shop (something that's never happened to me on the drop spindle), and continued to snap as I skeined it. That'll be something to focus on as I spin the rest of the fluff in this batch!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3QX5v1p03w/T8IoXZwOCyI/AAAAAAAAChE/ZT3439IeIos/s1600/DSCF1667.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3QX5v1p03w/T8IoXZwOCyI/AAAAAAAAChE/ZT3439IeIos/s320/DSCF1667.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A note on the spindle: it is BRILLIANT! It was made for me by the lovely <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/people/MintyWeaver" target="_blank">MintyWeaver</a>, who has been experimenting with making her own spindles from old dpns and various bits and bobs from B&Q. They spin magnificently, and the weighting is just sooooo comfortable. How long d'you reckon before I'm glueing stuff to other stuff and attempting to twist fluff with it?!!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Kim x</div>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07078481071614088318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9174136089116531447.post-22187922993780269422012-05-03T11:28:00.001+01:002012-05-03T11:44:24.606+01:00Holy Wonderwool, Batman!Wonderwool. When asked about it, I can still only say things like "nnnngggghhh", or stare vaguely into the distance while my conversational partner backs away slowly. I'll let the photos do the talking :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7DC06_N5WLU/T6JaEa_Q_OI/AAAAAAAACbk/i58RrfJj8DU/s1600/DSCF1482.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7DC06_N5WLU/T6JaEa_Q_OI/AAAAAAAACbk/i58RrfJj8DU/s320/DSCF1482.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bTged5g0NOQ/T6JaFYrscOI/AAAAAAAACJc/mlpetcNjbvg/s1600/DSCF1483.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bTged5g0NOQ/T6JaFYrscOI/AAAAAAAACJc/mlpetcNjbvg/s320/DSCF1483.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wJzKmWlIp-8/T6JaGb2CMBI/AAAAAAAACJw/VTa_HurXN0o/s1600/DSCF1485.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wJzKmWlIp-8/T6JaGb2CMBI/AAAAAAAACJw/VTa_HurXN0o/s320/DSCF1485.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jPBIgxuS3Js/T6JaGqLlsLI/AAAAAAAACbo/lGmwSnd2PUQ/s1600/DSCF1486.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jPBIgxuS3Js/T6JaGqLlsLI/AAAAAAAACbo/lGmwSnd2PUQ/s320/DSCF1486.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jRro24EZ1Jo/T6JaHgydmiI/AAAAAAAACJ4/FW-oVdAc2vQ/s1600/DSCF1487.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jRro24EZ1Jo/T6JaHgydmiI/AAAAAAAACJ4/FW-oVdAc2vQ/s320/DSCF1487.JPG" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TO_F03aDX10/T6JaprXpoUI/AAAAAAAACPk/bjPalvF4x_s/s1600/DSCF1541.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TO_F03aDX10/T6JaprXpoUI/AAAAAAAACPk/bjPalvF4x_s/s320/DSCF1541.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HgGEZ3hpeXo/T6Jar-4S9bI/AAAAAAAACQA/bEiynnX12EM/s1600/DSCF1544.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HgGEZ3hpeXo/T6Jar-4S9bI/AAAAAAAACQA/bEiynnX12EM/s320/DSCF1544.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sioosA7SjGc/T6JavUWkAfI/AAAAAAAACQw/TocPvDvr480/s1600/DSCF1551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sioosA7SjGc/T6JavUWkAfI/AAAAAAAACQw/TocPvDvr480/s320/DSCF1551.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Fc17VSNCVaE/T6Ja9XdKMUI/AAAAAAAACcI/fy1Xhn5vxa4/s1600/DSCF1578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Fc17VSNCVaE/T6Ja9XdKMUI/AAAAAAAACcI/fy1Xhn5vxa4/s320/DSCF1578.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_1OjYlLG4rA/T6JaEEz6cZI/AAAAAAAACbg/cK0XbISHdSM/s1600/DSCF1481.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_1OjYlLG4rA/T6JaEEz6cZI/AAAAAAAACbg/cK0XbISHdSM/s320/DSCF1481.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j1ufunmwFY4/T6JZ3nssRfI/AAAAAAAACbA/wxBVeY2rrBQ/s1600/DSCF1465.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j1ufunmwFY4/T6JZ3nssRfI/AAAAAAAACbA/wxBVeY2rrBQ/s320/DSCF1465.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uuIW7F8psJg/T6JbMkEXFKI/AAAAAAAACfM/XDX1OA0sfwA/s1600/DSCF1452.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uuIW7F8psJg/T6JbMkEXFKI/AAAAAAAACfM/XDX1OA0sfwA/s320/DSCF1452.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
I started spinning as soon as I got home. Some gorgeous merino went from this:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kqSO4RtUwd0/T6Ja_qJk7TI/AAAAAAAACUU/YfbHRh6wISc/s1600/DSCF1582.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kqSO4RtUwd0/T6Ja_qJk7TI/AAAAAAAACUU/YfbHRh6wISc/s320/DSCF1582.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gpyF0ZOBNwg/T6JbECSY6NI/AAAAAAAACVo/FetyStxReO4/s1600/DSCF1592.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gpyF0ZOBNwg/T6JbECSY6NI/AAAAAAAACVo/FetyStxReO4/s320/DSCF1592.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />To this:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jd5PNf6nNC8/T6JbFSxQqqI/AAAAAAAACcc/39ZmsyHC9NU/s1600/DSCF1596.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jd5PNf6nNC8/T6JbFSxQqqI/AAAAAAAACcc/39ZmsyHC9NU/s320/DSCF1596.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
To this:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VZ6Lb9U25ag/T6JbIKK7hiI/AAAAAAAACWc/5KmpDBWyHuA/s320/DSCF1601.JPG" width="320" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Veeeeeeeery quickly indeed! And I have PLANS for it. Oh yes, I have PLANS! :D</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you were at Wonderwool, share your pics! I'd love to see what you got! :) </div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07078481071614088318noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9174136089116531447.post-11638771427412079072012-04-26T15:00:00.003+01:002012-04-26T15:00:47.610+01:00Your Knitting Or Crochet Hero... or KCBWDAY3 (I'm catching up, ever so slowly!)<br />
<br />
*<br />
<br />
"Oh bother," Pooh Bear said.<br />
<br />
Indeed.<br />
<br />
There are just so many nominations for this one.<br />
<br />
For starters, there's Lucy at <a href="http://attic24.typepad.com/" target="_blank">attic24</a> who has A LOT going for her. She's great - check out the link if you've not already visited her blog.<br />
<br />
There are also all of the lovely ladies on my Rav friends list <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/people/EagleM16/friends/people?set=" target="_blank">(who you can wave at from here)</a>. They're my heroes not only because they're awesome crafters in their own rights, but also because they're also there with tons of moral support and encouragement when things like lacework have driven me to the brink of unnescessary frogging!<br />
<br />
And then there's all of the brill stuff I find when playing "Rav Roulette" (if you've never played this: start a project search, and then mess with the search parameters at random, you will almost certainly find something breathtaking to look at). To date, the absolute winner of this game has GOT to be this:<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://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/holofernes/56506029/SN850776_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" oda="true" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/holofernes/56506029/SN850776_medium2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/holofernes/journey-to-the-other-end-of-my-stash" target="_blank">holofernes' "Journey to the Other End of My Stash"</a><br />
PLEASE DO NOT REPOST THIS IMAGE WITHOUT HOLOFERNES' PERMISSION!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
But, hard as it might be to pick a single one out of the 100s of talented folks out there, my actual craft hero is a properly easy choice.<br />
<br />
I know a 9 year old who knits, crochets, dyes and plies like a pro. When I last saw her, she completely blew my mind with her mad skills on the spinning wheel. I figured she must have had loads of practice, but when I asked:<br />
<br />
"Oh, I started about a week ago..."<br />
<br />
PICK ME UP OFF THE FLOOR!<br />
<br />
She is my real wool hero - an incredibly talented young lady, with a wonderful knack for ignoring the scarier parts of learning something new in favour of simply just enjoying it. A lesson for us all I think!<br />
<br />
[Also, if you want to check out some pics of her spinning - have a look on the Llyn Guild's <a href="http://lleynwsd.wordpress.com/2012/04/23/spin-a-long-a-sunday/" target="_blank">blog</a> - just prepare to be gobsmacked! :P]Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07078481071614088318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9174136089116531447.post-68070273876836232542012-04-26T14:08:00.003+01:002012-04-26T14:08:37.816+01:00Photograph Challenge<div style="text-align: justify;">
...or 3KCBWDAY2</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
YES: it is blog week! I'm slightly behind schedule (ahem), so I'm not sure whether this will count as an entry for the competitions going on or not, but I figured I'd post it anyway :)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
You possibly already know that I live in the Wilderness (well, Anglesey), and that the field directly outside my house is populated by lovely lovely sheep. I was out trying to juxtapose the sheep with some handspun merino (and failing, mostly because sheep refuse to pose for the camera) when I spotted something UNBELIEVABLE! Honestly, when this goes live, I fully expect Attenborough to be on the phone.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Well, maybe Chris Packham at least.</div>
<br />
<span id="goog_1994744210"></span><span id="goog_1994744211"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xp0NlY3d49k/T5lG5DHc5NI/AAAAAAAACCc/af5mod41p_U/s1600/DSCF1146.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" oda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xp0NlY3d49k/T5lG5DHc5NI/AAAAAAAACCc/af5mod41p_U/s320/DSCF1146.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
A real life Mini-Merino IN THE WILD! Golly!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
</div>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07078481071614088318noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9174136089116531447.post-9661003985879091312012-03-22T17:34:00.000+00:002012-03-22T17:34:19.754+00:00More SocksOh dear - it's happened! I'm in love with socks!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yE2CJVcuN1I/T2tgfp1r7hI/AAAAAAAACCA/DZei1mC5WC8/s1600/DSCF1091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yE2CJVcuN1I/T2tgfp1r7hI/AAAAAAAACCA/DZei1mC5WC8/s320/DSCF1091.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Wooo-yeah!!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This is the first of my pair of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/harvest-dew" target="_blank">Harvest Dew socks</a> (the design is by <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/designers/rose-hiver" target="_blank">Rose Hiver</a> - and even if you don't usually click on links, click on this one - it's a page of pure sock-based beauty, I tell you!!).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I cast on the second of the pair straight after taking this photo. And if you know me and my tendency towards 'second-ANYTHING syndrome', you'll know that this is praise indeed!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wFTvtGN2f_I/T2tgdZ6THII/AAAAAAAACB4/dnvxSOKhaA0/s1600/DSCF1084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wFTvtGN2f_I/T2tgdZ6THII/AAAAAAAACB4/dnvxSOKhaA0/s320/DSCF1084.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've been following <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/moogsmum/harvest-dew" target="_blank">moogsmum's lead</a> and making the small size using some Regia 6 ply. I LOVE THIS STUFF! The pattern and the yarn go together wonderfully. So so sad to discover that the 6ply has now been discontinued. Luckily it's pay day soon, so I'll be able to buy up as much stock as I can before it all disappears... ;)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So. A question. Now that I've been bitten by the sock bug I can ask: what's your absolute favourite sock pattern ever?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
x</div>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07078481071614088318noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9174136089116531447.post-50266263532278120482012-03-09T14:01:00.000+00:002012-03-09T14:01:57.910+00:00"Simple" Sock Shocker!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
...or "Why You Shouldn't Listen to Other People All That Often"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZE5KoHInGsI/T1DUl_N3blI/AAAAAAAAB_E/meWRSYb1tw0/s1600/DSCF0998.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZE5KoHInGsI/T1DUl_N3blI/AAAAAAAAB_E/meWRSYb1tw0/s320/DSCF0998.JPG" width="320" yda="true" /></a></div>
<br />
Huzzah!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bux7F-Ku_ZA/T1DUuko4a6I/AAAAAAAACB0/ZqvYtalUHXQ/s1600/DSCF1009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bux7F-Ku_ZA/T1DUuko4a6I/AAAAAAAACB0/ZqvYtalUHXQ/s320/DSCF1009.JPG" width="240" yda="true" /></a></div>
<br />
They're <em>finally</em> finished!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KI0M0myj8sc/T1DUtkmqXKI/AAAAAAAACBM/IRC4RG4zlFQ/s1600/DSCF1008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KI0M0myj8sc/T1DUtkmqXKI/AAAAAAAACBM/IRC4RG4zlFQ/s320/DSCF1008.JPG" width="240" yda="true" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Well, actually I have a confession. Followers on twitter (there's a link over there --> if you'd like in on this sort of hot-off-the-press action!) will already know that I actually finished these last week. Dunno what's put me off blogging about them...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So, what was it like making my first proper actual pair of socks (as opposed to the lonely, tatty numbers I usually end up with)?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It was, er, uneventful.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hmm, that's not fair. I liked knitting them. I enjoy wearing them, and I ADORE the colours. But, meh. This sort of project just really isn't for me it seems. No bother.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But I've been inspired by the lovely <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/people/katyja">katyja</a> who normally knits her socks top-down on dpns, but is currently making a pair toe-up using magic loop.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Time to mix things up! She's given me a simple top-down, heel flap pattern to try and I. AM. LOVING. IT!!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Turns out that for all that time I was feeling pretty lethargic about knitted footwear, it was actually the construction I had issues with! So the moral of my little tale is that when someone says "oh, but this is the ABSOLUTE best/easiest/most efficient way to do them!" - ignore them completely. Hardly a new knitting moral (and it beats me why I clung onto it so long in this case), but one worth repeating.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I don't have any pics of the new socks yet, but expect some soon - they are <em>flying</em> by!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Kim x</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07078481071614088318noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9174136089116531447.post-47209146328280343262012-01-23T19:22:00.000+00:002012-01-23T19:22:59.365+00:00Caribbean Custard<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G8tj4M3YCn4/Tx2vLE5-beI/AAAAAAAAB-Y/EnCaAEal54c/s1600/120_FUJI1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G8tj4M3YCn4/Tx2vLE5-beI/AAAAAAAAB-Y/EnCaAEal54c/s400/120_FUJI1.jpg" width="250" /></a></div>
<br />
Socks.<br />
<br />
I have an issue with knitting them that I really can't fathom. When I look at it logically, they're just a pair of mitts with one less opening. But while I LOVE making mitts, making socks has always seemed at bit of an ordeal. Strange, no?<br />
<br />
Well anyway, here I am - socks on the circs and I'm getting there! Who knows whether this will be another loner sock destined only to be worn when I can't find anything else. I admit it - I do sometimes wear one shop-bought, one-handmade sock. I'm not proud. BUT, this will be the turning point. Right here. No more sock-neglect. My toes deserve better!!<br />
<br />
Plus, the combo of the colourways "Caribbean" for the blue and "Custard" for the yellow is enough to keep me entertained all by itself!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1yoS5zCA3Tc/Tx2xC9k9LOI/AAAAAAAAB-g/LWSUvC6Cddw/s1600/DSCF0917.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1yoS5zCA3Tc/Tx2xC9k9LOI/AAAAAAAAB-g/LWSUvC6Cddw/s320/DSCF0917.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07078481071614088318noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9174136089116531447.post-21439714755886171562012-01-20T17:03:00.000+00:002012-01-20T17:03:55.000+00:00Same Old<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZXclIt5MP2c/TxmcLmnOk1I/AAAAAAAAB-I/ZFRVzz0SVhM/s1600/DSCF0909.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZXclIt5MP2c/TxmcLmnOk1I/AAAAAAAAB-I/ZFRVzz0SVhM/s320/DSCF0909.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N4dKboyKGwU/TxmcM6m5nzI/AAAAAAAAB-Q/R0BJtblh4Os/s1600/DSCF0904.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N4dKboyKGwU/TxmcM6m5nzI/AAAAAAAAB-Q/R0BJtblh4Os/s320/DSCF0904.JPG" width="240" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Who would have thought it? - I'm sticking to the resolutions I made!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I've been working on this new pair of Nadolig as the first in what will hopefully be a long line of my "stuff to sell" branch of knitting projects. Please excuse the crappy photos -I tried waiting for some better light, but by about 1 o clock I realised that was as good as it was going to get.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm pretty pleased with how the colours have come out together. I wasn't sure if there'd be enough contrast between the red and pink but hurray!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you'd like to make a pair of Nadolig for yourself, you can find the pattern by clicking on the "knitting" tab above. Please remember though that the pattern should be for your own personal use.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As well as knitting, I also got out the graph paper as promised and have been working on a new colourwork pattern. Unfortunately I only own one pair of 3.25mm circs, and they're stuck with the second Nadolig at the mo. Still, it makes the suspense a little more exciting, eh?!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Kim x</div>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07078481071614088318noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9174136089116531447.post-51661280214711295702012-01-16T17:48:00.000+00:002012-01-16T17:48:08.852+00:00Resolutions 2012If you follow me on <a href="http://twitter.com/EggbirdDesigns">twitter</a> you've probably already seen me desperately trying to get my head round last night's Sherlock (if you don't know what I'm on about, put everything else on hold and get yourself over to <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b01b2vl4/Sherlock_Series_2_The_Reichenbach_Fall/">iPlayer</a>). <span style="font-size: x-small;">[PS. Don't tell me how it was done. I'm on a spoiler diet.]</span><br />
<br />
If you follow me in real life (??!!) then you've probably seen me embarrass friends by stopping to take photos of wallpaper and soft furnishings in various bars and cafes (you haven't seen anything till you've seen me in B&Q).<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://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qjfpa20dE1c/TxRgunaSn8I/AAAAAAAAB-A/9tOK9qJ4t2Y/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" kba="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qjfpa20dE1c/TxRgunaSn8I/AAAAAAAAB-A/9tOK9qJ4t2Y/s320/photo.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An absolute corker, I'm sure you'll agree!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And if you want to know what links these two rather odd little observations, it's this: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-wallpaper-had-it-coming">The Wallpaper Had it Coming</a> by <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/people/beforesunrise">beforesunrise</a>. It's nice to know I'm not the only wallpaper-spotter out there ;) I've already threatened to transform this motif into a deerstalker, which on reflection is probs a tad ambitious... A pipe case perhaps?<br />
<br />
Anyway, I digress. It's a bit late to the party, I know, but this is a <u>resolutions</u> post! Apparently 20% of people broke theirs in the first week of January, but I've cleverly avoided this statistic by only just coming up with some. See- procrastination is a GOOD thing!!<br />
<br />
Here they are:<br />
<br />
<em>My blog-specific promises for 2012 go as follows:</em><br />
<br />
1. Post more often. Easier said than done at the moment, but there it is.<br />
<br />
2. Stop trying to emulate other blogs. I’m here to do my own thing.<br />
<br />
3. Worry less about what to post. Stick to things that inspire/reflect my creativity.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ik7PCG9ymD8/TwsrOGHImZI/AAAAAAAAB8g/L0AVxnCmVP8/s1600/DSCF0868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" kba="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ik7PCG9ymD8/TwsrOGHImZI/AAAAAAAAB8g/L0AVxnCmVP8/s320/DSCF0868.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zIun-1k-ZHQ/TwsrNQlv3MI/AAAAAAAAB8Q/qxfi-Nnhq0A/s1600/DSCF0864.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" kba="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zIun-1k-ZHQ/TwsrNQlv3MI/AAAAAAAAB8Q/qxfi-Nnhq0A/s320/DSCF0864.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<em>My craft-specific promises for 2012 go as follows:</em><br />
<br />
1. Stop doubting my ideas. Perfectionism can get fairly self-destructive if not kept in check.<br />
<br />
2. The BIG one: Participate in at least one craft fair in 2012.<br />
<br />
That last one makes me feel a bit giddy if I think about it for too long. But if I assume that said craft fair will happen for next Christmas then there’s PLENTY of time to prepare.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sw0l_RrZR5g/TwsrMf4WgyI/AAAAAAAAB8A/LlwcYSG4W7k/s1600/DSCF0846.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" kba="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sw0l_RrZR5g/TwsrMf4WgyI/AAAAAAAAB8A/LlwcYSG4W7k/s320/DSCF0846.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I’m relying on you guys to make sure I stay on track with this lot!<br />
<br />
Have any of you made any resolutions? I’m also curious about any 12 in 2012s that are going on… what are your crafty plans for the year?<br />
<br />
Until next time,<br />
<br />
Kim x<br />
<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07078481071614088318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9174136089116531447.post-8369648104777771142011-11-23T17:32:00.000+00:002011-11-23T17:32:22.739+00:00Nadolig<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DdFHha8vASA/Ts0jM3KoxKI/AAAAAAAAB4Y/dSWXzdMpOBI/s1600/DSCF0809.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DdFHha8vASA/Ts0jM3KoxKI/AAAAAAAAB4Y/dSWXzdMpOBI/s320/DSCF0809.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Yesterday was a mixed sort of day. Yes, I did finish off the second mitt I've been working on, but I did also set off the fire alarm in the process (long story, but what I will say is that when the fire alarm klaxon starts a-hooting, it's best not to vacate the building still with knitting in hand...).<br />
<br />
Anyway, once the alarms were turned off, I was free to set about taking photos of the finished pair from every possible angle. I love taking photos of FOs (I'm resisting being very sad and writing FOtos)- aside from being able to finally wear them, it's perhaps my favourite part of the process!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WYeW-K0JZRs/Ts0jBZ1rEoI/AAAAAAAAB6E/kWhQGkTD9y0/s1600/DSCF0786.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WYeW-K0JZRs/Ts0jBZ1rEoI/AAAAAAAAB6E/kWhQGkTD9y0/s320/DSCF0786.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yFbAdEz47ww/Ts0jCp8lH3I/AAAAAAAAB6Y/9fDBNY10pto/s1600/DSCF0789.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yFbAdEz47ww/Ts0jCp8lH3I/AAAAAAAAB6Y/9fDBNY10pto/s320/DSCF0789.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
I'm going attempt to put the pattern in for testing today (if you'd like to test knit this pattern, keep your eye on the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/free-pattern-testers">Free Pattern Testers</a> group on Rav), and then hopefully it should be ready to publish by early December - just in time for a Christmassy knit ("Nadolig" is Welsh for Christmas, it's almost like I planned it! :P)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vutk0Q6C4Ow/Ts0jGyYMO-I/AAAAAAAAB6o/oC-Uyw8_ZR4/s1600/DSCF0796.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vutk0Q6C4Ow/Ts0jGyYMO-I/AAAAAAAAB6o/oC-Uyw8_ZR4/s320/DSCF0796.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Have any of you read <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Alice-Starmores-Book-Fair-Knitting/dp/0486472183/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1322068505&sr=8-1">this</a> book by Alice Starmore? It arrived in the post yesterday and I've been dipping in and out inbetween knitting. So far I'm VERY impressed. The introduction alone could be its own book - a history of the Shetlands (Fair Isle in particular) and theories about how Fair Isle knitting first came about - it's all very much speaking to my inner geek ;)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LbBMPhs8_c8/Ts0jHSuhQhI/AAAAAAAAB6s/V-fFUkszmEY/s1600/DSCF0799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LbBMPhs8_c8/Ts0jHSuhQhI/AAAAAAAAB6s/V-fFUkszmEY/s200/DSCF0799.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YDJ3ObrVzNg/Ts0jGdxmqpI/AAAAAAAAB6k/H68CiSWUQaU/s1600/DSCF0797.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YDJ3ObrVzNg/Ts0jGdxmqpI/AAAAAAAAB6k/H68CiSWUQaU/s200/DSCF0797.JPG" width="150" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
It's a bit freaky how much I'm getting into all this - I'm seeing
inspiration for Fair Isle everywhere!! Next time, I plan to share with
you some of the things I'm using as inspiration for colourwork designs.
I just need to remember to bring the camera out with me!!<br />
<br />
<br />
Kim xKimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07078481071614088318noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9174136089116531447.post-53325358560930627652011-11-21T18:53:00.000+00:002011-11-21T18:53:09.353+00:00Eggbirdy Updates<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qo9lZaUXNyQ/TsqVVTR0CQI/AAAAAAAABzo/nF9b9p2GEqA/s1600/DSCF0758.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qo9lZaUXNyQ/TsqVVTR0CQI/AAAAAAAABzo/nF9b9p2GEqA/s320/DSCF0758.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Looklooklook!! The first of a pair of stranded mitts! I'm so so happy with how they've turned out so far. There are a few little bits that are niggling, but they should be fairly easy to work out when I re-knit the pattern. I'm about a third of a way through the second mitt, and by the end of this week they should be ready for testing!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bDyuEF-rN7w/TsqVTzQegKI/AAAAAAAABzY/Wi7kKKQDI8Q/s1600/DSCF0750.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bDyuEF-rN7w/TsqVTzQegKI/AAAAAAAABzY/Wi7kKKQDI8Q/s320/DSCF0750.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
It's fair to say that I've been bitten quite severely by the Fair Isle bug. Already I've charted out ideas for 3 more patterns!! So many ideas, so little time! Hehe<br />
<br />
It's been quite the little hive of production recently - I finished the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/star-crossed-slouchy-beret">Star Crossed Slouchy Beret</a> last weekend - it's an AMAZING pattern. Super-dooper quick (always a good thing!) and so simple to work.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BPJtqrxvhaw/TsEot05ve0I/AAAAAAAAByM/pIukNYON72s/s1600/DSCF0746.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BPJtqrxvhaw/TsEot05ve0I/AAAAAAAAByM/pIukNYON72s/s320/DSCF0746.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I decided to treat myself with the suggested <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/malabrigo-yarn-merino-worsted">Malabrigo</a> which is unbelievable! It was a real pleasure to work with. I've decided to treat myself to wool more often :D<br />
<br />
Also on the needles pottering away is my stripey blanket<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-At3g2m4MJc4/TsqVXOie-YI/AAAAAAAABz0/KY4ZzpuGDTc/s1600/DSCF0769.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-At3g2m4MJc4/TsqVXOie-YI/AAAAAAAABz0/KY4ZzpuGDTc/s320/DSCF0769.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
It's really quite exciting seeing all the colours mesh together. Using odds and ends is a really good way of finding new colour combos which you might not have thought of otherwise. Plus, it's made entirely using knit stitches, which is so soothing after a long day<br />
<br />
And there we have it! A little update of all things craft :)<br />
<br />
Much love,<br />
Kim x<br />Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07078481071614088318noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9174136089116531447.post-18003153753447110842011-11-10T15:21:00.000+00:002011-11-10T15:21:55.107+00:00Drumroll, please!It's time to announce the winner of the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/honeycomb-11">Honeycomb pattern</a> giveaway! Here's my lovely assistant Miriam picking names from the project bag...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1-duTNtZi-I/TrvoGSlSaxI/AAAAAAAABxI/TBHPGMKQvPE/s1600/IMG_0908.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" ida="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1-duTNtZi-I/TrvoGSlSaxI/AAAAAAAABxI/TBHPGMKQvPE/s320/IMG_0908.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
And here are the names she picked!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iYkqqW7Msac/TrvoGXowT5I/AAAAAAAABxE/RQd_SElBGwI/s1600/IMG_0905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" ida="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iYkqqW7Msac/TrvoGXowT5I/AAAAAAAABxE/RQd_SElBGwI/s320/IMG_0905.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qlP7qNjMXkY/TrvoGTdFOFI/AAAAAAAABxM/6uIYir0RdjI/s1600/IMG_0906.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" ida="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qlP7qNjMXkY/TrvoGTdFOFI/AAAAAAAABxM/6uIYir0RdjI/s320/IMG_0906.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dbg8CvmOPK8/TrvoHux4uoI/AAAAAAAABxY/BwcjZ5C7rBQ/s1600/IMG_0907.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" ida="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dbg8CvmOPK8/TrvoHux4uoI/AAAAAAAABxY/BwcjZ5C7rBQ/s320/IMG_0907.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br />Step forward Tickety-Boo, omlair and Roaming Knitter!! You are now the proud owners of the Honeycomb pattern! :) I'll send those through to you via the contact details you left later today. I can't wait to see your take on the mitts - enjoy!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Thank you to everyone who took part, I look forward to hosting another giveaway soon :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
But for now - you may have spied a new knit on the needles lurking behind those winners' names... well I'm <em>exceedingly</em> (awesome word) excited about them. So excited in fact, that this morning I woke up at 5 because I couldn't stop dreaming about getting the chart just right. Absolutely bonkers, really, but oooooh it's gonna be worth it!! ;)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Until next time,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Toodle-pip!!</div>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07078481071614088318noreply@blogger.com4