Dear beloved readers,
I have received a lot of messages from you through various online communities that I participate regarding the Crochet Hobo Bag (aka "Nordstrom Hobo Bag"). My blog was closed for a while because of this pattern and I did not want to get myself upset over some negative comments so I took a break. However, I think it is fair to offer the pattern to those of you who want to make it.
For a short period of time, click here to get the pattern. The pattern still remains free and as before, it is for non-commercial purpose only. You can make the bag as many times as you want for yourself and everybody else. I would appreciate it if you keep it that way and not distributing it or selling the finished product for profit.
I wish you all the fun you have while making the bag. Have fun and take care!
Love,
Dao
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Reader Question
Reader Stefanie posted a comment under my most popular entry so far. Since she did not leave an email address, I think it's a good idea to reply here.
From Stefanie:
I hand-stitched my bag because I don't know how to use a sewing machine! Believe it or not, I have bags that are done with the crocheting/knitting part but missing linings so you're not the only one.
Let me go through the lining really quickly, this was what I did:
After crocheting the bag, I chose my lining and doubled it up to the height about 1.5 inches bigger than the bag. Then I used my little pencil to sketch the outline of the bag to the fabric (you can use a fabric pencil if you want.) I cut about 1 inch away from the outline, then managed to sew the sides together, wrong side facing me if I want the colors to be visible from the outside. Finally, I turned the inside out, folded the extra fabric from the top down, attached the magnetic clasps and stitched the rim of the bag to the lining (this part is tricky and thankfully I only know how to hand sew, otherwise I could have messed up big time!)
I hope this helps you lining the bags. It should be better if you have a hand stitcher that can be purchased at Target for ~$15. Good luck and enjoy crocheting!
P.S: Tomorrow (6/01), Michael's has a 4hr sale from 4pm to 8pm where everything is 25% off with the coupon that you can get in store. On top of that, you can get 50% off one item with a coupon in the same flyer. Have fun shopping, I know what I'm going to get!
From Stefanie:
i absolutely LOVE crocheting handbags and purses. my only problem so far have been linings. could you tell me how you sewed your lining to the crocheted bag? did you handsew or it run it through the sewing machine? my bags are all missing linings because i do not know what to do, and i'd love to tackle your pattern but i refuse to try it without completeing it properly. if you could help that would be wonderful!!!My reply:
I hand-stitched my bag because I don't know how to use a sewing machine! Believe it or not, I have bags that are done with the crocheting/knitting part but missing linings so you're not the only one.
Let me go through the lining really quickly, this was what I did:
After crocheting the bag, I chose my lining and doubled it up to the height about 1.5 inches bigger than the bag. Then I used my little pencil to sketch the outline of the bag to the fabric (you can use a fabric pencil if you want.) I cut about 1 inch away from the outline, then managed to sew the sides together, wrong side facing me if I want the colors to be visible from the outside. Finally, I turned the inside out, folded the extra fabric from the top down, attached the magnetic clasps and stitched the rim of the bag to the lining (this part is tricky and thankfully I only know how to hand sew, otherwise I could have messed up big time!)
I hope this helps you lining the bags. It should be better if you have a hand stitcher that can be purchased at Target for ~$15. Good luck and enjoy crocheting!
P.S: Tomorrow (6/01), Michael's has a 4hr sale from 4pm to 8pm where everything is 25% off with the coupon that you can get in store. On top of that, you can get 50% off one item with a coupon in the same flyer. Have fun shopping, I know what I'm going to get!
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Stuck in the Rut
Ah, a month has passed me by and it seems like I didn't accomplish much. Here are my progress report, pictures later since I still haven't got a new camera:
1. Short and Sweet bolero:
I've been crocheted for ages but didn't get around to make one SnS for myself until the spring secret pal swap. I decided to make one for my unknown pal using RH Soft yarn and it looked super-fabulous. After that I made one for myself using the same old, same old Caron Simply Soft. The result is stunning and I did make some modifications so it's no longer short but still really sweet.
2. Wisp scarf:
It took forever to make this scarf because I don't like to knit lace! The yarn I used is Pattons Lacette which is a dreamy lace yarn. I used about 1.5 skeins of black yarn and made a whole bunch of mistakes. Originally intended for a friend but I ended up keeping it just because of the errors.
3. The spring swap:
It ended a while ago but it was very good, probably on my top-5 list :) I got a very nice unknown pal and she was so generous. Again, my known pal was not so chatty but she said she liked my reveal package.
I haven't touched a hook or a pair of needles for weeks. Summer is coming and I really really want to make some nice tops, maybe even design one :)
My big "THANK YOU" to all of you who gave me such nice comments. You really make my day! I am happy that you found the purse pattern useful. Take care and keep on making nice things!
1. Short and Sweet bolero:
I've been crocheted for ages but didn't get around to make one SnS for myself until the spring secret pal swap. I decided to make one for my unknown pal using RH Soft yarn and it looked super-fabulous. After that I made one for myself using the same old, same old Caron Simply Soft. The result is stunning and I did make some modifications so it's no longer short but still really sweet.
2. Wisp scarf:
It took forever to make this scarf because I don't like to knit lace! The yarn I used is Pattons Lacette which is a dreamy lace yarn. I used about 1.5 skeins of black yarn and made a whole bunch of mistakes. Originally intended for a friend but I ended up keeping it just because of the errors.
3. The spring swap:
It ended a while ago but it was very good, probably on my top-5 list :) I got a very nice unknown pal and she was so generous. Again, my known pal was not so chatty but she said she liked my reveal package.
I haven't touched a hook or a pair of needles for weeks. Summer is coming and I really really want to make some nice tops, maybe even design one :)
My big "THANK YOU" to all of you who gave me such nice comments. You really make my day! I am happy that you found the purse pattern useful. Take care and keep on making nice things!
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Q&A on the Crochet Hobo Bag
To my readers,
I've put up this blog for a while now and the only reason people come here is the Crochet Hobo Bag. That entry is the only one that receives the most attention from lots and lots of people and I am very thankful for that.
The reason I'm writing this entry today is to address most of the confusions that you've raised in the past. Since I come here once a month to upload, I think this is a good pointer to those who are having difficulties while making the bag. I know some of you are beginners and may not have anybody to ask so this one is for you.
Q: Why did you make this bag and named it "Nordstrom Crochet Hobo Bag"?
A: I saw it on Nordstrom's website and figured out if I can make something similar, I can save myself some money. The "Nordstrom" part is the tribute to its root. To be honest with you, I didn't even go to Nordstrom because there's none of those where I live. I just figured everything out from the picture.
Q: Did you make up the pattern yourself or get it from Nordstrom?
A: As I mentioned above, I saw the picture and made the bag. Since I've never seen it and touched it in real life, I don't know how close it is to the one from Nordstrom.
Q: What kind of yarn do you recommend?
A: Any type of yarn that you have. Bulky wt. makes a roomy bag while worsted wt. makes a slightly smaller size. You can use pure wool if you prefer or sturdy acrylic if that's all you have. I've seen people making this bag using acrylic and theirs look really awesome.
Q: Do I need to use all those hooks?
A: The purpose of using all the hooks is to give a tapered shape to the bag. If you choose to have a rectangular bag, just stick with the biggest size of hook throughout.
Q: What is the gauge?
A: There is no gauge, it's just a bag. As long as you have a steady tension, the bag should come out just fine.
Q: In row 2, you mentioned the back loop. What is the back loop?
A: When you make a foundation chain, notice there are 2 sides of the chain: the one that's closer to you is the front loop. Normally, that's the loop you use to make the first row. The back loop is "the other side" of the foundation chain that people simply do not use. In this pattern, we use both front and back loop on the 2nd row to create the bottom.
Q: Are there any easier ways to line the bag?
A: So far I've seen people using hand stitchers and sewing machine. I've yet to find anything easier than that.
Q: Where did you get the strap?
A: I purchased mine in Walmart before the craft section was reduced. You can get them at JoAnn's or Michael's, in the bag/purse making section. If you can't get them, you simply just crochet a strap or knit an i-cord.
Q: How long is the ribbon?
A: To be honest with you, I don't even know. My guesstimate is around 1 meter but it can be shorter.
Q: Does the ribbon need to be satin?
A: It is totally up to you. You can use satin, organza, wired, striped, polka dots... And you can just skip the ribbon all together and add a decorative flower. Be creative!
Q: What do you mean by "not selling the pattern"?
A: This pattern is protected by the Creative Common law, ie everyone and anyone can use it for their own leisure purposes but not for profit. Since I put it up for free, you can print it out and make it as many times as you want. But if you decided to sell this pattern or make the bag and sell it for money, you are in violation of the law.
Q: If I have problem viewing this pattern, can you send me a copy?
A: I've never sent a copy of my pattern to anyone. Never was and never will, simply because once I start to do so, lots and lots of people will demand the same thing. If you can't view it in one computer because of blocking, please use a different computer to view my blog. If you can't view it in Explorer, then change you web browser to something else. I use Firefox and it works fine for me.
Q: I'm inspired from this bag and want to make something similar. How can I credit you?
A: If you just make some minor changes such as using a different color of the yarn, yarn type, ribbon type/no ribbon, lining color, strap type, snap type, etc then essentially it's still the same bag under different size/shape/color. However, if your final product looks totally different then you are the sole creative owner of your product. Either way, I would be happy to have some credits toward me (and a link would be very sweet!)
Q: Will there be any more bags like this from you?
A: I'm on the hunt for cute and chic crochet bags so there will be more. I am a bag/purse girl so it's fun to make something that I can wear everyday with my two hands and save money at the same time.
I hope I'm answering most of the concerns. Have fun creating beautiful bags!
Dao
I've put up this blog for a while now and the only reason people come here is the Crochet Hobo Bag. That entry is the only one that receives the most attention from lots and lots of people and I am very thankful for that.
The reason I'm writing this entry today is to address most of the confusions that you've raised in the past. Since I come here once a month to upload, I think this is a good pointer to those who are having difficulties while making the bag. I know some of you are beginners and may not have anybody to ask so this one is for you.
Q: Why did you make this bag and named it "Nordstrom Crochet Hobo Bag"?
A: I saw it on Nordstrom's website and figured out if I can make something similar, I can save myself some money. The "Nordstrom" part is the tribute to its root. To be honest with you, I didn't even go to Nordstrom because there's none of those where I live. I just figured everything out from the picture.
Q: Did you make up the pattern yourself or get it from Nordstrom?
A: As I mentioned above, I saw the picture and made the bag. Since I've never seen it and touched it in real life, I don't know how close it is to the one from Nordstrom.
Q: What kind of yarn do you recommend?
A: Any type of yarn that you have. Bulky wt. makes a roomy bag while worsted wt. makes a slightly smaller size. You can use pure wool if you prefer or sturdy acrylic if that's all you have. I've seen people making this bag using acrylic and theirs look really awesome.
Q: Do I need to use all those hooks?
A: The purpose of using all the hooks is to give a tapered shape to the bag. If you choose to have a rectangular bag, just stick with the biggest size of hook throughout.
Q: What is the gauge?
A: There is no gauge, it's just a bag. As long as you have a steady tension, the bag should come out just fine.
Q: In row 2, you mentioned the back loop. What is the back loop?
A: When you make a foundation chain, notice there are 2 sides of the chain: the one that's closer to you is the front loop. Normally, that's the loop you use to make the first row. The back loop is "the other side" of the foundation chain that people simply do not use. In this pattern, we use both front and back loop on the 2nd row to create the bottom.
Q: Are there any easier ways to line the bag?
A: So far I've seen people using hand stitchers and sewing machine. I've yet to find anything easier than that.
Q: Where did you get the strap?
A: I purchased mine in Walmart before the craft section was reduced. You can get them at JoAnn's or Michael's, in the bag/purse making section. If you can't get them, you simply just crochet a strap or knit an i-cord.
Q: How long is the ribbon?
A: To be honest with you, I don't even know. My guesstimate is around 1 meter but it can be shorter.
Q: Does the ribbon need to be satin?
A: It is totally up to you. You can use satin, organza, wired, striped, polka dots... And you can just skip the ribbon all together and add a decorative flower. Be creative!
Q: What do you mean by "not selling the pattern"?
A: This pattern is protected by the Creative Common law, ie everyone and anyone can use it for their own leisure purposes but not for profit. Since I put it up for free, you can print it out and make it as many times as you want. But if you decided to sell this pattern or make the bag and sell it for money, you are in violation of the law.
Q: If I have problem viewing this pattern, can you send me a copy?
A: I've never sent a copy of my pattern to anyone. Never was and never will, simply because once I start to do so, lots and lots of people will demand the same thing. If you can't view it in one computer because of blocking, please use a different computer to view my blog. If you can't view it in Explorer, then change you web browser to something else. I use Firefox and it works fine for me.
Q: I'm inspired from this bag and want to make something similar. How can I credit you?
A: If you just make some minor changes such as using a different color of the yarn, yarn type, ribbon type/no ribbon, lining color, strap type, snap type, etc then essentially it's still the same bag under different size/shape/color. However, if your final product looks totally different then you are the sole creative owner of your product. Either way, I would be happy to have some credits toward me (and a link would be very sweet!)
Q: Will there be any more bags like this from you?
A: I'm on the hunt for cute and chic crochet bags so there will be more. I am a bag/purse girl so it's fun to make something that I can wear everyday with my two hands and save money at the same time.
I hope I'm answering most of the concerns. Have fun creating beautiful bags!
Dao
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Once a Month
That's how long between posts that I have!
When the year started, I promised myself that I would have at least one FO per month. I thought it was reasonable but most of my WIPs are heavy-lifting items such as sweaters and cardigans that require more time to finish. Plus I'm not that fast in knitting yet.
It's been more than 1 year since I started knitting and I got quite a lot of serious projects done. My favorite ones are knitted either in the round or top down because they require less finishing. Now I get a hold of increases and decreases in knitting which I was so dreaded from the beginning. And I'm quite fond of cables, they rock my world! Also, I kinda get the idea of shaping to fit my body type (inverted triangle) and learned how to block properly. Needless to say, my 2 latest FOs look more pro than those that I finished in my earlier time.
As some of you may already know, I'm in Ravelry. Although it's been about 4 months since I joined, I'm not getting used to all the features that are available there. I slowly opened a flickr account recently so that I can post pictures in Ravelry. Somehow I just don't like flickr ( I think it is evil, compared to photobucket!) But anyways, I have flickr now.
What else is new? Oh yeah, I also subscribed to Knit Simple which currently is the one and only knitting magazine that I read. Their patterns are simple and gorgeous! In each issue, they even throw in some crochet patterns to please the knitter-slash-crocheters like myself. To balance out my budget, I stopped buying Crochet Today! simply because they don't cater to my taste anymore.
One more thing before I leave: please, please, please for once in your life buy yarn from Knitpicks. Every month or so they send me this gorgeous catalog that has yarn information as well as tips and tricks. Those catalogs really give me good pointers toward the techniques that I don't know. Also, they have book reviews and most of their books are 34% off! The one thing I can complain about Knitpicks is the service is kind of slow but their shipping rate and yarn are very good. I think you can find the tips and tricks part on their website too (although I'm not sure!)
That's it for this month of February. Pictures will come later since I have slow-speed internet at home. Until next month, ciao!
P.S: 2 more things to mention (1) I joined the spring SP swap and it's going fine, and (2) I hope one day my income will increase exponentially so that I can afford all the yarn and magazines that I want!
When the year started, I promised myself that I would have at least one FO per month. I thought it was reasonable but most of my WIPs are heavy-lifting items such as sweaters and cardigans that require more time to finish. Plus I'm not that fast in knitting yet.
It's been more than 1 year since I started knitting and I got quite a lot of serious projects done. My favorite ones are knitted either in the round or top down because they require less finishing. Now I get a hold of increases and decreases in knitting which I was so dreaded from the beginning. And I'm quite fond of cables, they rock my world! Also, I kinda get the idea of shaping to fit my body type (inverted triangle) and learned how to block properly. Needless to say, my 2 latest FOs look more pro than those that I finished in my earlier time.
As some of you may already know, I'm in Ravelry. Although it's been about 4 months since I joined, I'm not getting used to all the features that are available there. I slowly opened a flickr account recently so that I can post pictures in Ravelry. Somehow I just don't like flickr ( I think it is evil, compared to photobucket!) But anyways, I have flickr now.
What else is new? Oh yeah, I also subscribed to Knit Simple which currently is the one and only knitting magazine that I read. Their patterns are simple and gorgeous! In each issue, they even throw in some crochet patterns to please the knitter-slash-crocheters like myself. To balance out my budget, I stopped buying Crochet Today! simply because they don't cater to my taste anymore.
One more thing before I leave: please, please, please for once in your life buy yarn from Knitpicks. Every month or so they send me this gorgeous catalog that has yarn information as well as tips and tricks. Those catalogs really give me good pointers toward the techniques that I don't know. Also, they have book reviews and most of their books are 34% off! The one thing I can complain about Knitpicks is the service is kind of slow but their shipping rate and yarn are very good. I think you can find the tips and tricks part on their website too (although I'm not sure!)
That's it for this month of February. Pictures will come later since I have slow-speed internet at home. Until next month, ciao!
P.S: 2 more things to mention (1) I joined the spring SP swap and it's going fine, and (2) I hope one day my income will increase exponentially so that I can afford all the yarn and magazines that I want!
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Project Overdued: Wendy's Waistcoat
I finished crocheting this project around Thanksgiving 2007 but did not push myself to really finish it off because I did not have 3 buttons. You see, the buttons I had in mind are wood but JoAnn's just refused to sell them for cheap. They have 2 or 3 buttons for a dollar something, such a rip-off. So I just hung the waistcoat there for dear life until one day I browsed my dear dollar store and got a bag of 20 buttons for a dollar. Ka-ching, ka-ching! Now I can finish off this waistcoat by adding the buttons.
This project is another gift from crochetville: the pattern came from Interweave crochet fall 2006 given to me by Brandybuck, the yarn was gifted by CDBear on my last Secret Pal, and the whole thing was crocheted by me, a crochet villager.
I love the yarn very much, it's such a nice and plushy mohair yarn. And it's warm too! The pattern is not that tricky to work with and seriously, it didn't take lots of time to crochet either. I modified here and there as I did not use the same yarn as they suggested but it came out fine, made my boobs look even bigger than what they really are.
Pattern: Wendy's Waistcoat
Interweave Crochet Fall 2006 issue
Yarn: Ormaghi Wonderful
Hook: Susan Bates 5.00 mm
Close-up to see the yarn texture and pattern
This project is another gift from crochetville: the pattern came from Interweave crochet fall 2006 given to me by Brandybuck, the yarn was gifted by CDBear on my last Secret Pal, and the whole thing was crocheted by me, a crochet villager.
I love the yarn very much, it's such a nice and plushy mohair yarn. And it's warm too! The pattern is not that tricky to work with and seriously, it didn't take lots of time to crochet either. I modified here and there as I did not use the same yarn as they suggested but it came out fine, made my boobs look even bigger than what they really are.
Pattern: Wendy's Waistcoat
Interweave Crochet Fall 2006 issue
Yarn: Ormaghi Wonderful
Hook: Susan Bates 5.00 mm
Close-up to see the yarn texture and patternOverall I enjoyed crocheting this waistcoat. It's a cute little garment that will sure be a staple garment during cold weather.
Monday, December 10, 2007
My BICO
Look ma!
Baby, it's cold outside!
First off, let me tell you how much I don't like crocheting/knitting baby garments. Maybe it's because I don't have children myself. And maybe making clothes for little ones is just so darn tedious. So I didn't make anything for babies until recently when one of my friends had a baby shower.
My friend decided to follow Halle Berry by not wanting to know the gender of her baby. Which pretty much left me no choice but knitting and crocheting garments in yellow and green. While I kind of enjoy the yellow, green is not such a favorite color in my book. However, the green yarn from RH Soft Yarn is so smooth and shiny that I absolutely adore knitting/crocheting with it.
Materials:
Also, I got a good deal from my neighbor Big Lots: 3 skeins of Patons Lacette, 2 skeins of Patons Be Mine (which is as soft as chenille), and a skein of Bernat Lu Lu. All for $1 each! What a deal! I am planning to make more BICOs as now I'm hooked!
Baby, it's cold outside!
First off, let me tell you how much I don't like crocheting/knitting baby garments. Maybe it's because I don't have children myself. And maybe making clothes for little ones is just so darn tedious. So I didn't make anything for babies until recently when one of my friends had a baby shower.
My friend decided to follow Halle Berry by not wanting to know the gender of her baby. Which pretty much left me no choice but knitting and crocheting garments in yellow and green. While I kind of enjoy the yellow, green is not such a favorite color in my book. However, the green yarn from RH Soft Yarn is so smooth and shiny that I absolutely adore knitting/crocheting with it.
Materials:
- Hat: Umbilical Hat from SnB knitting book.
- yarn used: RH Soft Yarn in avocado (100% acrylic, easy to wash)
- 5mm dpns from Clover.
- Gillet: my own pattern, swing as I go
- BICO: pattern from crochetme
- yarn: Illusions by Bernat in sunlight (also 100% acrylic). This yarn feels like boucle and is a bit tricky to work but the end result is just so fabulous. Also the gauge is a bit bigger than Homespun I guess (but babies always grow up, right?)
- trim: RH Soft yarn.
- 6.5mm hook
Also, I got a good deal from my neighbor Big Lots: 3 skeins of Patons Lacette, 2 skeins of Patons Be Mine (which is as soft as chenille), and a skein of Bernat Lu Lu. All for $1 each! What a deal! I am planning to make more BICOs as now I'm hooked!
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
I'm in Ravelry
After 26 days of waiting (and forgetting that I signed), I am finally in Ravelry! My username is shortylam so please look me up if you're already there.
I actually finished 2 projects, one knit and one crochet, but didn't have time to put the finishing touch on them (ie, buttons, zipper,...) I also sent a BICO to a friend of mine who's having a baby by the end of the year.
So expect some pics on the next post, ok?
My WIP (thank God I only have one active WIP!): a Victoria's Secret inspired sweater.
Yarn: Joann's Sensation Stellina in white (very nice yarn!)
I'm aiming to finish this WIP for Christmas.
I actually finished 2 projects, one knit and one crochet, but didn't have time to put the finishing touch on them (ie, buttons, zipper,...) I also sent a BICO to a friend of mine who's having a baby by the end of the year.
So expect some pics on the next post, ok?
My WIP (thank God I only have one active WIP!): a Victoria's Secret inspired sweater.
Yarn: Joann's Sensation Stellina in white (very nice yarn!)
I'm aiming to finish this WIP for Christmas.
Sunday, November 4, 2007
It's been a long time...
I haven't blogged here since mid-August, wow! Time flies by so fast which shows how much time I didn't have for my needleworks. For my project, I finished most of the sample collection part which is huge btw. So what's left is me actually analyzing them, writing up the results, and finally defending my thesis. And they'll all be happening next year (before the summer is over I hope!)
I can't complain about life right now as I'm blessed with a good project, a place to call home, some really good friends, and a supportive group of people who really encourage me on my pursuit of happiness. My crochet villagers included :)
From my last secret pal, I received 2 skeins of very pretty red cotton yarn just enough to make a shrug/bolero. Normally I would steer clear from reds as I don't look good in them: I really look washed out (boo!) But Christi gave me such a nice red yarn that I had to make something out of it. When I finished the cotton yarn she gifted me, the shrug was not long enough to be a shrug so I used a different type of cotton yarn from Juli (craftymama) to do the edging. They are two shades of red but work out fine together at the end.
The shrug/bolero was knitted using top-down raglan method, which has become my most favorite knitting method ever! The edges were then crocheted alternating between front and back post hdc to get some sort of seed stitch feeling (which doesn't happen btw) Pardon my pajama pants, I was just goofing around before taking the picture. The cotton yarn give such wonderful stitch definition that I don't even bother blocking it yet.
Currently I have 2 other projects on my needles and 1 on my hook:
1. Top-down raglan short sleeves sweater: started at the end of summer by casted on the stitches but didn't get around to knit until recently. It's a few inches long. Any yarn that's smaller than sport weight is not worth to knit up as a garment because it takes forever!
2. Top-down raglan cardigan (can't you see top-down raglan is my fav?) I bough the yarn (Patons Shetland Chunky) because it was such a sweet deal: $1/skein. I then proceeded in knitting a different pattern only to find out I looked like a Beluga whale stuck on a fish net. Feeling so unhappy, I decided to knit a cable sweater à la Victoria's Secret. But instead looking sexy, I looked like Snow Beast. So I convinced myself to use the frog stitch to convert Snow Beast into something more wearable and flattering to my figure.
Snow Beast actually is not that bad of a design but the reasons it doesn't work are: (a) I'm no VS model and (b) chunky yarn just simply looks chunkier when knitting into cables.
3. Crochet waist coat: it...takes...forever...to...finish because I'm lazy!
I bought KnitSimple's Holiday Issue and it's choke full of good stuff! So far I determine to make 2 projects out of that issue already. KS is (primarily) a knitting magazine but also has some crochet patterns in it- the best of both world, I guess. My favorite way to finish a project is to do crochet edges. I'm not good at finishing up projects and making them look like a million bucks. Plus I just don't like sewing up seams. So crocheting/knitting on the round with crochet edging is the best option for me right now. That way when I'm done, I'm really done :)
This is the first time ever that I filled up my tiny yarn bin. I don't have a big stash since I don't really have that much money to begin with. And I only shop at JoAnn's so my choice of yarn has been really limiting. But yesterday I managed to put all the yarn I purchased recently and my little yarn bin filled up to the top! I felt like a rich woman!
Actually I got some good deals for yarn online and purchased a bunch of them for about $20! They are all cotton yarn which I really love at this moment. Without touching the stash, I have enough yarn for the next 3 projects after finishing the two that I'm working on. I feel so rich!
I don't know when I'm going to post again so let's hope everyone a good and productive day/week/month. My thanks go to Christi (CDBear) and Juli (craftymama) for their gifts to make the shrug/bolero. Until I have another FO, take care!
I can't complain about life right now as I'm blessed with a good project, a place to call home, some really good friends, and a supportive group of people who really encourage me on my pursuit of happiness. My crochet villagers included :)
From my last secret pal, I received 2 skeins of very pretty red cotton yarn just enough to make a shrug/bolero. Normally I would steer clear from reds as I don't look good in them: I really look washed out (boo!) But Christi gave me such a nice red yarn that I had to make something out of it. When I finished the cotton yarn she gifted me, the shrug was not long enough to be a shrug so I used a different type of cotton yarn from Juli (craftymama) to do the edging. They are two shades of red but work out fine together at the end.
The shrug/bolero was knitted using top-down raglan method, which has become my most favorite knitting method ever! The edges were then crocheted alternating between front and back post hdc to get some sort of seed stitch feeling (which doesn't happen btw) Pardon my pajama pants, I was just goofing around before taking the picture. The cotton yarn give such wonderful stitch definition that I don't even bother blocking it yet.
Currently I have 2 other projects on my needles and 1 on my hook:
1. Top-down raglan short sleeves sweater: started at the end of summer by casted on the stitches but didn't get around to knit until recently. It's a few inches long. Any yarn that's smaller than sport weight is not worth to knit up as a garment because it takes forever!
2. Top-down raglan cardigan (can't you see top-down raglan is my fav?) I bough the yarn (Patons Shetland Chunky) because it was such a sweet deal: $1/skein. I then proceeded in knitting a different pattern only to find out I looked like a Beluga whale stuck on a fish net. Feeling so unhappy, I decided to knit a cable sweater à la Victoria's Secret. But instead looking sexy, I looked like Snow Beast. So I convinced myself to use the frog stitch to convert Snow Beast into something more wearable and flattering to my figure.
Snow Beast actually is not that bad of a design but the reasons it doesn't work are: (a) I'm no VS model and (b) chunky yarn just simply looks chunkier when knitting into cables.
3. Crochet waist coat: it...takes...forever...to...finish because I'm lazy!
I bought KnitSimple's Holiday Issue and it's choke full of good stuff! So far I determine to make 2 projects out of that issue already. KS is (primarily) a knitting magazine but also has some crochet patterns in it- the best of both world, I guess. My favorite way to finish a project is to do crochet edges. I'm not good at finishing up projects and making them look like a million bucks. Plus I just don't like sewing up seams. So crocheting/knitting on the round with crochet edging is the best option for me right now. That way when I'm done, I'm really done :)
This is the first time ever that I filled up my tiny yarn bin. I don't have a big stash since I don't really have that much money to begin with. And I only shop at JoAnn's so my choice of yarn has been really limiting. But yesterday I managed to put all the yarn I purchased recently and my little yarn bin filled up to the top! I felt like a rich woman!
Actually I got some good deals for yarn online and purchased a bunch of them for about $20! They are all cotton yarn which I really love at this moment. Without touching the stash, I have enough yarn for the next 3 projects after finishing the two that I'm working on. I feel so rich!
I don't know when I'm going to post again so let's hope everyone a good and productive day/week/month. My thanks go to Christi (CDBear) and Juli (craftymama) for their gifts to make the shrug/bolero. Until I have another FO, take care!
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Ooh Wee!
I haven't blogged here for a month! *shock* But don't fret, I'm loaded with WIPs and hopefully will post the end-results soon.
Now I need my bed. Ciao!
Now I need my bed. Ciao!
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Itchy Fingers
I'm itchy to knit and crochet very badly. I haven't made a stitch for almost 2 weeks I believe. Currently I have in my hands a sweater from knitty that I really like. The downside is it takes forever to finish the arms, and I'm only at one arm! I guess my manic OCD knitting and crocheting days are over. I still remember those nights when I stayed up until 3am to finish just another row of my afghan or just another repeat of my jacket. Now it's just...whatever...I'm tired...I'm going to bed!
I guess crafting is like a marriage, sometimes you really can't wait to jump to a new project, sometimes you just want to do something else, or just roll around and sleep! Talking from a person who's never been in a serious and committed relationship! So don't take my words :)
On the other hand, today we had a party and my friends were all oohing and ah-ing at the afghan and blanket I have. The afghan was a gift from Sherri during the Halloween swap and the blanket was the one I made way back. So this friend of mine wanted me to make one blanket for her because she likes the color. But it took me forever to finish that one blanket so I told her no, but maybe I'll make her an afghan for her next birthday then.
So yes, again as busy as I am right now, I find myself with some WIPs. Ah, the never-ending WIPs of my life! They keep me busy, they keep me sane, and also they keep me from not going outside of the house :D
I guess crafting is like a marriage, sometimes you really can't wait to jump to a new project, sometimes you just want to do something else, or just roll around and sleep! Talking from a person who's never been in a serious and committed relationship! So don't take my words :)
On the other hand, today we had a party and my friends were all oohing and ah-ing at the afghan and blanket I have. The afghan was a gift from Sherri during the Halloween swap and the blanket was the one I made way back. So this friend of mine wanted me to make one blanket for her because she likes the color. But it took me forever to finish that one blanket so I told her no, but maybe I'll make her an afghan for her next birthday then.
So yes, again as busy as I am right now, I find myself with some WIPs. Ah, the never-ending WIPs of my life! They keep me busy, they keep me sane, and also they keep me from not going outside of the house :D
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
My First Secret Pal Swap
I received my reveal package today from Christi (CDBear) and it was awesome! She sent me a big ball of mohair blend yarn, 2 hanks of cotton yarn, and 2 hanks of variegated sock yarn. I also received a red teddy bear, a crocheted shawl that's so soft and awesome, some beads, and many many other goodies.I am so glad to join this SP swap. The experience has been fantastic. My known SP hopefully already received her package. I hope nothing was damaged during the trip or I didn't write the wrong address.
Here are some pictures of my reveal package:
The content of the reveal package: mohair yarn, a pattern book, some pens, beading instructions, a blue shawl, beads, cotton yarn (red), cotton sock yarn (blue), teddy bear, note pads, and a headband.
Me wearing the shawl and the headband
Monday, June 4, 2007
Worked out the Kinks
The past few weeks were very hectic for me in term of research. So much drama surrounding it that I don't even want to mention. But it all worked out at the end.
However, I just hated that my foul mood during those time affected my crochet mood. I was so upset that I could not even crochet or knit a stitch! How awful is that?! On top of that, my arcane mind decided to think that SP would end at the beginning of June instead of July. That's why I already gather most of the stuff for my SP and was ready to send until I realized my mistake. After realizing that I have a month ahead, I was quite relaxed and it all worked out for me. Mid-June will be quite busy at work so planning the SP ahead will give me more concentration at work without worrying of missing the deadline.
I have a WIP! Hopefully it'll be done in the next week or two :D It's the Zeeby's bag from SnB knit handbook. I use Wool-Ease in Navy to make this bag and will line it properly. My intention is to have a good-looking bag to carry stuff around in summer. The Booga bag I got from Spring Purse Swap is more suitable for traveling than everyday toting. I like the color from the Booga bag so much that I have to make this one in a very similar color. So far it's going fine, the pattern is quite easy. In fact, I think most patterns in SnB are easy. I am so contemplated to buy the other SnB knit book. I am in a needle-working frenzy right now.
I'm downsizing my WIPs very much but I always keep a knit and a crochet WIP at a time just in case I'm bored with one, I can use the other.
However, I just hated that my foul mood during those time affected my crochet mood. I was so upset that I could not even crochet or knit a stitch! How awful is that?! On top of that, my arcane mind decided to think that SP would end at the beginning of June instead of July. That's why I already gather most of the stuff for my SP and was ready to send until I realized my mistake. After realizing that I have a month ahead, I was quite relaxed and it all worked out for me. Mid-June will be quite busy at work so planning the SP ahead will give me more concentration at work without worrying of missing the deadline.
I have a WIP! Hopefully it'll be done in the next week or two :D It's the Zeeby's bag from SnB knit handbook. I use Wool-Ease in Navy to make this bag and will line it properly. My intention is to have a good-looking bag to carry stuff around in summer. The Booga bag I got from Spring Purse Swap is more suitable for traveling than everyday toting. I like the color from the Booga bag so much that I have to make this one in a very similar color. So far it's going fine, the pattern is quite easy. In fact, I think most patterns in SnB are easy. I am so contemplated to buy the other SnB knit book. I am in a needle-working frenzy right now.
I'm downsizing my WIPs very much but I always keep a knit and a crochet WIP at a time just in case I'm bored with one, I can use the other.
Sunday, May 13, 2007
State of the WIPs
2 WIPs down, 1 to go! Woohoo! A while back, I was bitching...er...complaining about my WIPs and stash problem at crochetville. Some kind villagers advised me to buckle up and finish my WIPs and that was exactly what I did.
WIP #1: my brother's blankie-DONE! It became a nice twin size blankie and I crocheted until I ran out of yarn. I used 2 skeins of Joann's Rainbow Bouclé in Light Blue and Dark Blue. This yarn is very soft and plushy. Maybe I can lure the little monkey to use a blanket after all. Also, this WIP broke all the records of being the longest WIP so far.
WIP #2: "Hello me Yellow" top- DONE!
WIP #1: my brother's blankie-DONE! It became a nice twin size blankie and I crocheted until I ran out of yarn. I used 2 skeins of Joann's Rainbow Bouclé in Light Blue and Dark Blue. This yarn is very soft and plushy. Maybe I can lure the little monkey to use a blanket after all. Also, this WIP broke all the records of being the longest WIP so far.
WIP #2: "Hello me Yellow" top- DONE!
The yarns from this top were gifted to me by Fiona during the "Holiday Gift Exchange" last year. The yellow and pink yarn came from China and are 100% wool. The grey yarn is a blend of virgin wool and crêpe. It's a bit trickier to work than the other two but I was able to use up all the yarn. During the time, I ran out of the yellow yarn and had to order and extra skein of fingering weight yarn from Knit Picks.
Yes, you read it right! The top is made of 100% fingering weight wool yarn! At the beginning, I thought I was just a sadist who loved to torture my poor hands. But the more I got into making this garment, the more I like fingering weight yarns. This weight makes the garment very light and soft, unlike its worsted weight cousin. However, that doesn't mean I'm done knitting/crocheting in worsted weight yarn. I just enjoy the switch once in a while (although I'm grateful to receive any type of yarns as long as they're not fun fur or any frou frou type of yarn :D)
But come to think of it, using a lighter weight yarn to make wearables does make sense. If you go to the store, say GAP, to buy a sweater, chances are the sweaters are made with some very thin yarns. I know, I know, they use machines but you see how great the sweater mold to your body?
I don't really have a pattern for this top. And I didn't plan it either. It just came out of compulsion. Sometimes the best things happened spontaneously (proceed to bring out my Physical Chemistry book and looked under "thermodynamics" hehe)
Some more details:
P.S: I'm joining my first Secret Pal Swap. I can't wait to start!!!
Yes, you read it right! The top is made of 100% fingering weight wool yarn! At the beginning, I thought I was just a sadist who loved to torture my poor hands. But the more I got into making this garment, the more I like fingering weight yarns. This weight makes the garment very light and soft, unlike its worsted weight cousin. However, that doesn't mean I'm done knitting/crocheting in worsted weight yarn. I just enjoy the switch once in a while (although I'm grateful to receive any type of yarns as long as they're not fun fur or any frou frou type of yarn :D)
But come to think of it, using a lighter weight yarn to make wearables does make sense. If you go to the store, say GAP, to buy a sweater, chances are the sweaters are made with some very thin yarns. I know, I know, they use machines but you see how great the sweater mold to your body?
I don't really have a pattern for this top. And I didn't plan it either. It just came out of compulsion. Sometimes the best things happened spontaneously (proceed to bring out my Physical Chemistry book and looked under "thermodynamics" hehe)
Some more details:
The front
The back
I made an extra band at the back so that I can wear a bra. With my boob size, it's impossible to wear this kind of garment without a bra!
Oh yes, I learned the power of steaming. With an iron that has the steam option, my crinkly top transformed into a very luxurious garment like those in the expensive store! This trick I learned from Svetlana and it saves me from blocking :D
WIP #3: The jacket from Crochet Today! It's still where it is, untouched. After making the "Hello me Yellow", I ran out of energy so I need time to recuperate. But it will be done!
WIP #4: The baby sweater for my pregnant friend.
This one is special. One word: GAUGE! Watch your gauge! It was the gauge that threw me off the bridge. I intended to make a sweater for a newborn as the baby is dued in winter and he/she will definitely need some seriously warm winter clothings. I already made the umbilical cord hat (see the 2nd post below) and now I need a sweater for the baby. But it was the GAUGE! So I used my special stitch called the frog stitch to rip-it, rip-it, rip-it!
So there's no WIP #4 for me right now. I'm down to 1 last WIP but I have a lot of WIMs (Work In Mind)
When will this cycle ever stop?
A WIM becomes a WIP, a WIP just lays there to collect dust until it becomes an UFO. During the WIP to UFO time, there may be more WIPs in between.
The more I think about it, the more it makes my head hurt!
Oh yes, I learned the power of steaming. With an iron that has the steam option, my crinkly top transformed into a very luxurious garment like those in the expensive store! This trick I learned from Svetlana and it saves me from blocking :D
WIP #3: The jacket from Crochet Today! It's still where it is, untouched. After making the "Hello me Yellow", I ran out of energy so I need time to recuperate. But it will be done!
WIP #4: The baby sweater for my pregnant friend.
This one is special. One word: GAUGE! Watch your gauge! It was the gauge that threw me off the bridge. I intended to make a sweater for a newborn as the baby is dued in winter and he/she will definitely need some seriously warm winter clothings. I already made the umbilical cord hat (see the 2nd post below) and now I need a sweater for the baby. But it was the GAUGE! So I used my special stitch called the frog stitch to rip-it, rip-it, rip-it!
So there's no WIP #4 for me right now. I'm down to 1 last WIP but I have a lot of WIMs (Work In Mind)
When will this cycle ever stop?
A WIM becomes a WIP, a WIP just lays there to collect dust until it becomes an UFO. During the WIP to UFO time, there may be more WIPs in between.
The more I think about it, the more it makes my head hurt!
P.S: I'm joining my first Secret Pal Swap. I can't wait to start!!!
Thursday, May 3, 2007
Sent and Received
Just one quick line to the Spring Blooming Purse/Tote Swap: it's nice, it's exciting but somehow I didn't feel as excited as I did in the Fall Purse/Tote Swap I attended last year for many reasons. First of all, my life is different now. I'm no longer do research to procrastinate myself from crocheting. Now it's the other way around: I would be extremely happy just to have one day to crochet, to take my mind off numbers, statistics, data, values, discussions,... With all those said, I don't really have lots of time to make anything nice or enjoy making it anymore. Hence my bag was born in haste. Quality vs. quantity, the age old discussion, again is reigning over me. Number 2, many unfortunate events happened to me during the course of the swap. Therefore I was not a happy camper either. Number 3, I wanted to participate in the swap very badly, but it ended in bad time when I was so loaded with exams that I didn't feel anything at all.
With all said and done, I was happy with the bag I did for Juli nevertheless. That was the bag that I would like to receive myself and I am proud of it. I used Wool of the Andes Bulky in "mauve" from Knit Picks and Joann's Sensation Bellisimo. I particularly like Bellisimo as it has an interesting texture and the colors reminded me of cherry blossoms in DC.
The bag I made for Juli: mauve Knit Pick's Wool of the Andes Bulky and Joann's Bellisimo. This is my first knit/crochet bag ever. The mauve part was knitted while the "cherry blossom" part was crocheted. Then I felted the bag and it came out smaller than I expected. Plus the cables I worked so hard on the front was mostly gone :(
The goodies (clockwise from left to right): Arnica hand lotion from Yves Rocher, Rooboise tea from Archer Farm, (back) Prince of Fire by Daniel Silva, The Book of Books, and a notebook, (middle) 2 skeins of LB Boucle yarn, Bellisimo yarn, (front) felted crochet hook holder, and bath salt in Orange Verbena.
Juli sent me a booga bag she made from Brown Sheep yarn (must be a lot of yarn as the bag is very sturdy). She also sent a variety of tea, one small bag of coffee, 5 hand made stitch markers, one ball of cotton yarn, and the pattern for Booga bag.
Thanks Juli for your kindness. You've been a wonderful partner! I just wished I was not so busy to enjoy the whole experience.
With all said and done, I was happy with the bag I did for Juli nevertheless. That was the bag that I would like to receive myself and I am proud of it. I used Wool of the Andes Bulky in "mauve" from Knit Picks and Joann's Sensation Bellisimo. I particularly like Bellisimo as it has an interesting texture and the colors reminded me of cherry blossoms in DC.
Juli sent me a booga bag she made from Brown Sheep yarn (must be a lot of yarn as the bag is very sturdy). She also sent a variety of tea, one small bag of coffee, 5 hand made stitch markers, one ball of cotton yarn, and the pattern for Booga bag.
Thanks Juli for your kindness. You've been a wonderful partner! I just wished I was not so busy to enjoy the whole experience.
Saturday, April 28, 2007
I'm an Organized Crafter
During my exam season, I decided to organize my room and realized a BIG part of the room is taken over by yarn and other yarn-related items. No wonder why my closet is so crowded. I opened my yarn stash and realized I wouldn't need to shop for yarn for a while.I have enough to last me through some couple of rainy days and it rarely rains in TLH! On top of that I have so many WIPs to finish. Let's see:
1. The top I'm making with the yellow yarn;
3. A baby top for one of my friends who's expecting a little one;
4. The blanket for my little brother. It's the blanket to me as I don't seem to make any further progress.
Besides, I still have some yarn that I ripped out a while ago during my attempt of making a jacket and another jacket. And they are a lot of yarn. Nevertheless, I found the pattern for both types of yarn and after wiping off all my WIPs, I will proceed on with those two. That means I will have three cute jackets this year. Yay!
Yet somehow I still want to go and get more yarn. Whenever knitpicks send their catalogues, I just wanted to order x-skeins of this, y-skeins of that. And then Elann also has good quality yarn with nice prices too. So much temptation!
The use of old items on new purposes is endless. I had this old stationary holder for years yet never used it. One day I pulled it out, dusted and put my straight needles there. Now the needles won't lay around my room for pick-up sticks anymore.
Also, a weird-looking test tube in lab is the home for my tapestry needles. It's neat that way, see? I got some test tubes with caps like that one but a bit bigger. They are used to store beads. I like!
Oh, last but not least, I got all my crochet hooks from size B to size K, thanks to the sale at JoAnn's. Now I have one plastic (size K), two Boyle's (size B and E), and many Susan Bates. I still can't believe I got them all finally.
One picture of the cutie pie wearing the Umbilical Hat from SnB made by RH Soft yarn
1. The top I'm making with the yellow yarn;
Remember me?
2. A crocheted jacket with Stellina yarn;(Stellina is the white yarn at the top)
3. A baby top for one of my friends who's expecting a little one;
4. The blanket for my little brother. It's the blanket to me as I don't seem to make any further progress.
Besides, I still have some yarn that I ripped out a while ago during my attempt of making a jacket and another jacket. And they are a lot of yarn. Nevertheless, I found the pattern for both types of yarn and after wiping off all my WIPs, I will proceed on with those two. That means I will have three cute jackets this year. Yay!
Yet somehow I still want to go and get more yarn. Whenever knitpicks send their catalogues, I just wanted to order x-skeins of this, y-skeins of that. And then Elann also has good quality yarn with nice prices too. So much temptation!
The use of old items on new purposes is endless. I had this old stationary holder for years yet never used it. One day I pulled it out, dusted and put my straight needles there. Now the needles won't lay around my room for pick-up sticks anymore.
Also, a weird-looking test tube in lab is the home for my tapestry needles. It's neat that way, see? I got some test tubes with caps like that one but a bit bigger. They are used to store beads. I like!
Oh, last but not least, I got all my crochet hooks from size B to size K, thanks to the sale at JoAnn's. Now I have one plastic (size K), two Boyle's (size B and E), and many Susan Bates. I still can't believe I got them all finally.
One picture of the cutie pie wearing the Umbilical Hat from SnB made by RH Soft yarn
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
La Tortura
Yesterday, I finally realized one thing: I like to torture myself by crocheting with fingering/sock yarn. When I started crocheting, I told myself never ever crochet with anything smaller than sport weight...simply because it's a painful thing to do. Then I was gifted with some very nice yarn that are smaller than sport weight from Fiona. Some of them became my VS skirt while others just laid around in my stash, looking at me with vengeful eyes. "Why, why mommy why? Why don't you use me to make something wonderful? Why?" they looked at me and cried whenever I touched them. Such nice kids, one full 100g skein of yellow woolen yarn, one half skein of pink yarn, and one grey skein of virgin wool yarn. Yet I couldn't find an appropriate project for them because they're sock yarn!
Not anymore! I finally created something that the kids can be used. But I may run out of yarn somewhere along the way and who knows how fast Knitpicks process their orders. Anyhoo, I really enjoy crocheting with sock yarn right now, one weird and unexpected thing I found out myself.
I'm not going to reveal what I'm working on yet, just you wait!
Not anymore! I finally created something that the kids can be used. But I may run out of yarn somewhere along the way and who knows how fast Knitpicks process their orders. Anyhoo, I really enjoy crocheting with sock yarn right now, one weird and unexpected thing I found out myself.
I'm not going to reveal what I'm working on yet, just you wait!
Saturday, April 14, 2007
I'm Back Baby!
This week was GGGGREAT! I didn't have a lot of trips to my study site and you know what that means...more time for me! A while back I purchased some yummy yarns from JoAnn's called Stellina from their Sensations collection. The yarn is $5.99 per skein and is pretty small. I bought 4 of them before, in hope of making a scarf out of it. To me, this yarn is insanely expensive but the reason I bought was they actually had a sale! Plus the yarn just feels so good when you pet it.
So 4 skeins of Stellina just laid around in my box doing nothing until 3 days ago. I finally decided to use it for a jacket and guess what? I ran out of yarn! So instead of de-stashing my stash, I came to JoAnn's to buy 6 more skeins of Stellina! I know I must be out of my mind or something but Stellina was on sale and I had a coupon on top of the total purchase. It was all good :D
What made this week even better was I picked up a project I started a while ago. I was kinda winged out something for myself but got frustrated along the way. So I dropped the whole thing for a while and focused on research. But today after reading Knit Simple, I got some ideas that could bring me back to the project again. It feels so good to finally see something work out!
So now I have 2 projects under my belt. But then final exam is right around the corner => what a bummer! The other project should finish fast and I expect it to be done soon. By next month I'll have a jacket and a tank top. How cool is that?
My goal for the summer is to finish the WIPs that I have for a while (my brother's blankie is one of them!) Plus I have some projects that just went awry wrong. Now I don't know what to do with the yarn since I've ripped them out so many times. Being a frugal person, I don't feel comfortable throwing away yarns regardless how tattering they look.I guess I need to use up 4 skeins of black Simply Soft somehow. And some couple of Knitpicks. And some couple of this and that.
Oh my!
So 4 skeins of Stellina just laid around in my box doing nothing until 3 days ago. I finally decided to use it for a jacket and guess what? I ran out of yarn! So instead of de-stashing my stash, I came to JoAnn's to buy 6 more skeins of Stellina! I know I must be out of my mind or something but Stellina was on sale and I had a coupon on top of the total purchase. It was all good :D
What made this week even better was I picked up a project I started a while ago. I was kinda winged out something for myself but got frustrated along the way. So I dropped the whole thing for a while and focused on research. But today after reading Knit Simple, I got some ideas that could bring me back to the project again. It feels so good to finally see something work out!
So now I have 2 projects under my belt. But then final exam is right around the corner => what a bummer! The other project should finish fast and I expect it to be done soon. By next month I'll have a jacket and a tank top. How cool is that?
My goal for the summer is to finish the WIPs that I have for a while (my brother's blankie is one of them!) Plus I have some projects that just went awry wrong. Now I don't know what to do with the yarn since I've ripped them out so many times. Being a frugal person, I don't feel comfortable throwing away yarns regardless how tattering they look.I guess I need to use up 4 skeins of black Simply Soft somehow. And some couple of Knitpicks. And some couple of this and that.
Oh my!
Thursday, April 5, 2007
OMG!
I haven't been blogging here for a while. Apparently I am now procrastinating myself from crocheting/knitting to do my research. There were days that I didn't even have energy to make a stitch although the inside of me wanted to grab that hook really bad. Now all I want to do is to have some "me" time to knit, to crochet, to feel the yarn slipping through my fingers. Simple wish but sometimes I just can't do.
I finished the bag for the Spring tote/purse swap already. It turned out like nothing I sketched out but has a very "down-to-earth" look. I used Knitpicks and Bellissimo from Joann's and they looked wonderful together. The Bellissimo has funky texture but its color reminded me of cherry blossoms in DC somehow. I felted once today but the washing machine in the laundry room didn't have hot water => blimey! So right now it looks somewhat Abecrombie and Fitch-y but I believe some couple of washes will do it right.
Right now since the tote is not a finished product, I can't post any pictures. But I will, after my swap partner Juli receives it first. So stay tuned!
I finished the bag for the Spring tote/purse swap already. It turned out like nothing I sketched out but has a very "down-to-earth" look. I used Knitpicks and Bellissimo from Joann's and they looked wonderful together. The Bellissimo has funky texture but its color reminded me of cherry blossoms in DC somehow. I felted once today but the washing machine in the laundry room didn't have hot water => blimey! So right now it looks somewhat Abecrombie and Fitch-y but I believe some couple of washes will do it right.
Right now since the tote is not a finished product, I can't post any pictures. But I will, after my swap partner Juli receives it first. So stay tuned!
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