Sunday Morning Knit Wit ~ Ella is now available as a pattern

The testing process is complete and I'm excited to have Ella available as a PDF knitting pattern.

You can purchase your copy through etsy or Ravelry for $5.00.

This is a great beginner lace design as the pattern is worked only on the front (every back row is just purl) and has only 12 repeating rows.  To complete this project you will need 250 - 270 yards of fingering weight yarn, size 8 US knitting needles and a tapestry needle to weave in the ends.

It is knit flat and each row has the same number of stitches so it is easy to keep track of while working the pattern. The finished product using fingering yarn is 11 inches wide and 65 inches long.  However, you can modify this by using heavier yarn and larger needles to create a warmer, thicker shawl. 

The PDF pattern includes both written instructions as well as a chart that includes the symbols meanings. 

And as with most of my patterns, I have included a check off grid so you will always know where you left off when you set it down for awhile.

Sunday Morning Knit Wit - New Ascot Cable Pattern

Cables are my thing..  I can't seem to knit something that doesn't have a cable or two. I really love the way they add texture and and movement to a knitted item. I find knitting plain stockinette stitch really boring and will loose interest almost immediately if there isn't some type of cable work within the project.

I've been working on the design for this cable neckwarmer for quite some time and my cable ascot neckwarmer pattern is finally perfected and available for sale on etsy.  This was one that was a long time in the making, but well worth the modifications. 

Although it looks like it is pretty difficult, if you can make cables, it is pretty easy (I knit the entire neckwarmer in a total of 4 hours). I worked closely with my tester and together, we streamlined the instructions to make it easy to follow and have a really cool check off grid to make sure you stay on track!

What I like most about this pattern is by simply changing directions of the cables mid-way, a beautiful diamond is formed in the center of the neck in the back. And, of course my signature cables on each edge make scalloped edges stand out.

This is available in pattern form on etsy and ravelry for the DIYers, or I have a few fininshed versions on etsy and artfire.

I have a few more ascot style patterns being worked on, so stay tuned for some fun new patterns coming soon!

Until next week - keep your needles clicking and stay warm!

Sunday Morning Knit Wit - Fingerless Gloves

With summer coming to a close I'm getting ready for cold weather in my etsy shop. I've been adding handknit hats and scarves as quickly as I can knit them up, but really focusing on fingerless gloves.


I am excited to let you know that I now have 3 fingerless glove patterns for sale, and my most recent pattern knits up quickly and has a classic - never out of style - design. They are worked in the round with double pointed needles with two strands of worsted weight yarn and an easy thumb gussett makes the fit dreamy!

Here is what my tester said when she sent the final pattern back to me: "These are really quick to make and so comfy to wear".


So, if you are looking to make some fun handknit gifts for Christmas this year, consider making these fingerless gloves. Your friends and family will love them. The pattern is available in my etsy or artfire shops and now available as a down load for those of you on Ravelry!



And if you are not up to knitting them yourself, I have a variety of colors available on etsy/ artfire for $26 a pair. ....Easy-peasy Christmas Gifts!

So, get ahead of the Christmas rush this year by making these fun gloves ~

Keep you needles clicking and Stay Warm!

Sunday Morning Knit Wit ~ Slip Cable Cross or Cable Fabric

Good Morning ~  Today's stitch is a bit of a challenge.  You don't want to be multitasking or watching a heart-wrenching movie while working this one as you just need to pay attention to each row and make sure you are counting right.  At first I found it a little awkward but once I got going on it, I just loved the resulting pattern. 

I incorporated this into a knit pillow cover pattern that I just love.  Basically it is two knit squares laced together, so it isn't a daunting project that will take forever, but it does show off your skills!  This pillow would look great in the guest bedroom or on a couch or chair in the living room.

The center panel is worked in todays featured stitch surrounded by cables and other textured stitches.

How to work Slip Cable Cross Stitch:

(Multiples of 4 + 1)


Row 1: (right side): K1, *sl 1 pw, K3, repeat from * to end
Row 2: *P3, sl 1 pw, repeat from * to last stitch, P1
Row 3: K1, *C3L, K1, repeat from * to end
Row 4: Purl
Row 5: K5, *sl 1, K3, repeat from * to end
Row 6: *P3, sl 1, repeat from * to last 5 stitches, P5
Row 7: K3, *C3R, K1, repeat from * to last 2 stitches, K2
Row 8: Purl

Repeat these 8 rows

Additional Notes:
C3L = (cable 3 left) slip next st onto cable needle and hold at front of work, knit next 2 sts from left-hand needle, then knit st from cable needle

C3R = (cable 3 right) slip next 2 sts onto cable needle and hold at back of work, knit next st from left-hand needle, then knit sts from cable needle

I really love the result of this stitch combination and think it would be fantastic on an afgahn or baby blanket.

I have the pillow knitting pattern available in my etsy shop. Included in this pattern is a handy check-off grid so you can keep track of each and every row for perfect results.  This pattern has been tested by another knitter for accuracy.

Next week I will be at Father's Day Craft Fair and Car Show in Constableville NY and will not be featuring Sunday Morning Knit Wit. I hope that if you are in the area, you will stop by this historical place.  Vendors as well as antique cars will be all over the lawn of this beautiful building.

This is a day filled with fun for everyone. Visit the beautiful gardens, tour the home, find something wonderful at the silent auction and enjoy the variety of food. It really is a fun day!

Until next time, keep your needles clicking!

Sunday Morning Knit Wit ~ Garter Slip Stitch

Good Morning ~ 

Today's stitch is Garter Slip Stitch and I have to say that this is one of the easiest stitch combination that really gives alot of texture to your project.   I'm gearing up for the summer craft fair season and have made several little wallets with this stitch.   It's easy to memorize and because 2 rows of the pattern you slip every other stitch it is worked quite quickly.

The pattern is worked in multiples of 2 + 1 over 4 rows.

Row 1: Knit
Row 2: Knit
Row 3: K1, *(Sl 1pw, K1) rep to end
Row 4: K1, *(yf, Sl 1 pw, yb, K1) rep to end

Repeat these 4 rows

I have several wallets or card holders such as this one in my etsy shop.  I think they are perfect to hold ATM cards, Credit Cards, Student ID's, Drivers Licence and Business Cards.

Or even better yet -  Put a gift card in one of these, tie a ribbon around it and you will have the perfect gift for grads or for any event. 

If you would like to make your own, I have the knitting pattern availabe as well, complete with a check off grid to keep track of every row.  And here is what my tester says about this pattern:  " What a quick, fun project this was! This is one that I am going to make again very soon. "

 
Results of last week's Poll "Who Taught You to Knit?
50% Mother
25% Self Taught (Books)
12% Knitting Group
12% Neighbor

My mother taught me to knit and interestingly, she taught me 'the European' way of holding incoming yarn using my left hand.  Many Americans knit by holding the incoming yarn with their right hand. My mother-in-law was one of those.  Mary Claire (MIL) used to say I drove her nuts when I would sit and knit with her as I did it backwards.  (I'm sure I drove her nuts in other ways, but that is the only thing she ever told me about!)

Anyway, I thought it would be interesting to see how many knitters that visit my blog are "European" knitters or "American" knitters.. so this week's poll is ready for you to check in:  Do You Knit European Style or American Style?  Results to be shared next week

Keep your knitting needles clicking until next week when I will feature the Rice Stitch!

Sunday Morning Knit Wit ~ Double Cable

Good Morning and Happy Mother's Day!

Who taught you to knit?  Was it your mother, grandmother, aunt or a friendly neighbor?  Did you teach yourself from a book or join a knitting group?  Take a minute to let me know in the survey on the right >>. 

Mom at 16 - Wasn't she a beauty!

It was my mother that taught me and I am so very glad she did.  Mom is the ultimate do-it-yourselfer and can make just about anything.  More so when we were children ~ from making our clothes to curtains to knitting our mittens and sweaters.  To this day, at 81, she still always has something on her needles.   She taught me the 'European' way, which is holding the incoming yarn with your left hand.  I've recently joined a knitting group and it makes me cross-eyed to watch all the gals knitting right handed, but ultimately, the result is the same.  Anyway - Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers out there.

Today's stitch is the Double Cable.  Don't be intimated - this is so much easier than it looks.  Basically, you do a cable in the back and immediately do another cable in the front.  Or vise-versa, which will determine if the cable goes up or down.

This pattern has 6 repeating rows and is worked over 8 stitches. 

Downward Cable:


Row 1: (right side) Knit
Row 2: Purl
Row 3: Knit
Row 4: Purl
Row 5: C4F, C4B
Row 6: Purl

Upward Cable:

Row 1: (right side) Knit
Row 2: Purl
Row 3: Knit
Row 4: Purl
Row 5: C4B, C4F
Row 6: Purl

Repeat these 6 rows

I've used this stitich in a lovely new scarflette/neckwarmer that I call Flying Geese as it gives the illusion of geese in the V formation.  This one is knit with baby alpaca and is so incredibly soft!

I also offer the pattern for this neckwarmer on etsy.  Here is what my tester said when she was done: " What a great job you did on this pattern! It is easy to memorize and I am already thinking of other uses for this stitch pattern".  So check it out if you are looking for an easy pattern that really looks great.  I also provide a handy check-off grid so you won't miss a row!

 
Grab your needles and have some fun! 
 
Until next week ~  Keep your needles clicking.
 

Sunday Morning Knit Wit ~ Slipped Double Chain

Good Morning~  Today's stitch is Slipped Double Chain and I found that this stitch makes a very interesting and unique design and best of all  - it is very easy!

It is made up of 7 stitches with 8 repeating rows and fits in with cables and textures beautifully. 

Just follow these rows:

Row 1: (right side) Sl 1 purlwise, K5, Sl 1 purlwise
Row 2: Sl 1 purlwise, P5, Sl 1 purlwise
Row 3: C3L, K1, C3R
Row 4: Purl
Row 5: K2, Sl 1 purlwise, K1, Sl 1 purlwise, K2
Row 6: P2, Sl 1 purlwise, P1, Sl 1 purlwise
Row 7: C2R, K1, C3L
Row 8: Purl

Repeat these 8 rows

Hold the yarn in front of your work when slipping the stitches to create the little horizontal loop at each point. 
 

 I used this stitch in a baby blanket that I made for one of my daughter's friends that is having her first baby this summer.  I had so much fun making this blanket for a couple reasons:  1) It was the 4th baby blanket I've made this year and yet it was the first girl (I was getting tired of blue!) and 2) Although the pattern looks difficult, it is very repetitive and after the first few repeats, it is easy to tell where you are so it can be put down and picked up again easily.
 
The center of the blanket is honeycomb cables with this slipped double chain on either side and has double seed stitch with braided cabled edges
 
The pattern for the  baby blanket is for sale in my etsy shop.
 
I had left over yarn and I made a honeycomb hat and a slipped stitch bib to match.
 

 
 
The entire set:

 
 
This was a super fun project and I can't wait to see and hold the baby!  I guess I need to wait until she's ready to show herself to the world, but it sure is hard to wait.
 
Next week I will be in Vermont visiting my grandson and celebrating his 4th birthday, so the next stitch of the week will be May 9th - Mother's Day.  I have a beautiful, yet simple double cable pattern in store for you then!
Until then, keep your knitting needles clicking!

Sunday Morning Knit Wit ~ Double Eyelet Rib

Good Morning!  The snow is melting and it really truly is looking like spring today. 

The featured stitch this week is the Double Eyelet Rib stitch.  This is very popular and is seen in many patterns including baby sweaters and afgahns. 

Row 1: (right side) P2, *K5, P2, *repeat from * to end
Row 2: K2, *P5, K2, *repeat from * to end
Row 3: P2, *K2Tog, YF, K1, YF, Sl 1, K1, PSSO, P2, *repeat from * to end
Row 4: same as Row 2

Repeat these 4 rows


I used this pattern in two different bags ~ 

This handknit shoulder bag is knit with chunky yarn.  I really like the look of the larger eyelet. 

I made this version for myself to use when I go to my Zumba class.  It is perfect for a towel, water bottle and a couple weights.   Be on the look out for the pattern for this bag as it will be released soon!

Next week ~ Open Weave Panel

 

Until then, happy knitting!

Sunday Morning Knit Wit ~ Faggoted Lace Panel

March is certainly here in Central NY ~  The wind has been blowing and howling all night long.  And that wind has melted so much snow that I can start to see patches of grass in spots now.  Oh, Spring is coming!

Today's Knit Wit pattern is Faggoted Lace Panel.  It is super easy to do and it a nice stitch to incorporate into an area that was just plain knit.   I've used it to make some fun to-go cup cozies or water bottle sleeves.  Now that Spring is here and we are on the move a bit more, keep a few of these in your car to keep your coffee from burning your hands and your water from sweating. 

My newest knit coffee cozy is is in a lovely mint green and knit with a bit chunkier yarn.

The Knitting Stitch is Faggoted Panel Lace and worked over 9 stiches with 4 repeating rows:

Row 1: (right side) P1, K1, P2Tog, YF, K1, YF, K2Tog through back, K1, P1
Row 2: K1, P7, K1
Row 3: P1, K2Tog, YF, K3, YF, K2Tog through back, P1
Row 4: same as Row 2

Repeat these 4 rows

 
I also have the pattern for the coffee cup cozy available on etsy as well.  This is a super easy pattern and the best thing about is that it takes very little yarn.  It is the perfect project for all your left overs - whether you keep what you make for yourself or give them as gifts. 
 
The pattern is worked on double pointed needles and I have included a grid so you can mark off each round as it is completed to ensure perfect results. 
 

 
 
Have fun with this very easy lace pattern. 
 
Next week ~  Double Eyelet Rib

Sunday Morning Knit Wit ~ Diagonal Rib Stitch

When one of my daughter's friends told me she was going to have a baby, I felt like I was going to be a grandma again!  Jenn was my daughter Sara's friend since elementary school and they remained life-long friends to this day.  They both will turn 27 this March / April (their birthdays are a week apart!).  And Jenn's baby boy is due in 2 days.  I can't wait to see the little guy.

I used the diagonal rib pattern to make a blanket, bib and newborn hat and I really love the end result of this pattern.  But I will caution you to pay close attention to the rows.  Although they are simple K2, P2, there are some variations to each row.  I ended up ripping the blanket out 3 times  until I really got the hang of it.

The Diagonal Rib Stitch is repeating 8 rows and is made in multiples of 4. 

Row 1: *K2, P2; repeat from * to end
Row 2: same as 1
Row 3: K1, *P2, K2; repeat from * to last 3 stitches, P2, K1
Row 4: P1, *K2, P2; repeat from * to last 3 stitches, K2, P1
Row 5: *P2, K2; repeat from * to end
Row 6: same as 5
Row 7: same as 4
Row 8: same as 3


I have the patterns available in my etsy shop as follows:

Knit Baby Blanket Pattern $3.50  This pattern uses diagonal rib in the center with  classic cables along the sides.  Perfect for the car or stroller.

Knit Baby  Hat Pattern $3.00 This pattern is worked in the round on double pointed needles and is sized perfectly for newborns  - soft and cuddly!

Knit Baby Bib Pattern $3.00 This pattern is a quick knit to use up your left over yarn and makes a lovely bib for baby to wear on special occasions.

Complete set - Knit Bably Blanket, Hat, Bib Patterns $6.50

 
 
If you have a baby coming along in your family, consider knitting up this set.
 
That is is for February!  Next week we will start March out with some very pretty lacy stitches, so be sure to check back next Sunday.
 
Until then ~ Stay warm and keep the knitting needles clicking!

Sunday Morning Knit Wit ~ Lattice Stich

It's February already and as I look out my window, I see a storm is brewing.  Not the nice fluffy snow, but the icy snow that comes with harsh wind.  What a nice day to stay in and knit by the fire!

We spent our time in January learning some great new cable stitches.  I though I would change it up for February and concentrate on some really fantastic textures.  This week is the Lattice Stitch.

This is a fun and easy pattern that gives what ever you are making some depth and intrest.  It is worked in multiples of 6 + 1 stiches and repeating 6 rows.

Try a swatch by casting on 25 stiches and working the rows as follows:

Row 1: K3, *P1, K5; repeat from * to last 4 stitches, P1, K3
Row 2: P2, *K1, P1, K1, P3; repeat from * to last 5 stitches, K1, P1, K1, P2
Row 3: K1, *P1, K3, P1, K1; repeat from * to end
Row 4: K1, *P5, K1; repeat from * to end
Row5: same as 3
Row 6: same as 2

I used this stitch to make a fun and useful clutch that is large enough to hold check books, passports, train tickets and perhaps a cell phone.  It is a fast and easy pattern that could be completed and finished in just a couple hours.  And if you live in an area like I do with snow coming at us in every direction, it's a perfect day to knit it up! 

Here is a link to the lattice stitch clutch knitting pattern  available in my etsy shop.  This pattern has been tested for accuracy and includes a grid to keep track of your rows for perfect results every time.  You will use this pattern over and over again to make gifts for your friends or stock up for your next craft fair. 

I hope you stay warm today and are surrounded by soft warm yarns!  Enjoy~~

Next week  - Ridged Rib stitch - a great filler for in between cables! 

Sunday Morning Knit Wit ~ 6 Stitch Spiral Cable

Welcome to this weeks knit stitch feature - slip stitch spiral cable. 

This stitch combination is worked over 6 stitches and by repeating small cables next to each other, it gives the illusion of a continuous spiral.  This can often be found in sweaters as a filler stitch and is thick, warm and solid.  I found that it was easy to knit and quickly memorized the repetitive pattern.

Row 1: (C2F) 3 times
Row 2: P
Row 3: K1, (C2F) 2 times, K1
Row 4: P

Repeat these 4 Rows

I used this stitch in a fun wine cozy which provides soft padding for the wine bottle and makes a super fun gift bag when wine is given.  The wine bottle cozy pattern can be found in my etsy shop and is a fun knit on double pointed needles.  The top can be tied up with an i-cord, ribbon or jute - you decide! 

This one is done in a rich beautiful red, just in time for a romantic valentines evening! 

I hope you enjoyed the month of January that featured variations of cables.  I will feature more cables later on in 2010, but in February I will focus on texture stitches. 

So get your knitting needles warmed up and clicking!  Next week ~  Lattice Stitch

Sunday Morning Knit Wit ~ Wavy Cable

Wecome back to week four of Sunday Morning Knit Wit.

Today I am featuring one of my very favorite cables ~ The Wavy Cable.  This is a great cable stitch for edges or border work and has fantastic texture. The cable shown is worked over 6 stitches and repeating 12 rows.   However, the number of stitches and rows can be modifed to suit your pattern.


The pattern requires using cable work held in front and in back while making cables. 


For a refresher on how to make cables click here.

The Pattern:

Row 1: K
Row 2: P
Row 3: C6B
Row 4: P
Row 5: K
Row 6: P
Row 7: K
Row 8: P
Row 9: C6F
Row 10: P
Row 11: K
Row 12: P

I have used modifications of this wavy pattern in several items. (I told you it was one of my favorites!)

Here it is used in a wine bottle cozy

And here in a warm scarflette:  (the pattern is also available)

This cowl is fun and the pattern is also available!

And this pattern for wavy fingerless gloves will just amaze you at how easy they are!

So get your needles going and make some wavy cables today. 

Warning:  It is easy to get addicted.
Side effects include: looking at your co-workers sweaters trying to find cables, looking at patterns to see if you can fit cables in somewhere, and finding your cable needle in your pockets while doing laundry - and be careful!  They can cause damage to your washer or dryer. 
Next Week - Sprial Cables!

Sunday Morning Knit Wit ~ Pearl Cable

This week I am featuring the Pearl Cable stitch. This is a great little filler stitch and can be used anywhere to add texture and fun. 

As with most cables, using purl stitches before and after will help it stand out and really make it pop.  This stitch requires making cables in front and in back of the work.

I used a 4 stitch variation, but it can be worked in 6 or 8 as well for a bulkier look.

The cable is made by repeating these 4 rows:
Row 1: C2F, C2B
Row 2: P
Row 3: C2B, C2F
Row 4: P

Click here for details on how to make cables

So far, I've used this sweet little cable in an electronic cozy and a couple scarflettes.  I really love it and I already have some ideas that include a shopping bag and a baby bib, but the details haven't been worked out yet.

For a quick and easy project, try this electronic cozy pattern for just $4.  It is worked in the round on double pointed needles and is a great way to use up left over yarn. 

Also check out this fun and warm scarflette in pink worked with alpaca and silk blend.  It is incredibly soft!

Or this scarflette made with merino wool in a beautiful charcoal grey

 
Until next week, keep those knitting needles clicking and stay warm!

Next week's stitch:  Wavy Cables

Sunday Morning Knit Wit ~ Slip Stitch Cables

Welcome to week two of Sunday Morning Knit Wit!

And I couldn't be more excited about the featured stitch this week ~ Slip Stitch Cables.  As this is a new stitch for me as well, I couldn't believe how easy it is.  I've already made a full length scarf (in an oh so soft baby alpaca) and a scarflette (in a wool, alpaca, camel blend).   You can be sure to see this stitch pop up in future patterns.

The cable is worked over 3 stitches, typically with purl stitches before and after, which will help the cables stand out.
Row 1: S1 purlwise, K2
Row 2: P2, S1 purlwise
Row 3: C3L
Row 4: P

Repeat these 4 rows

S: Slip stitch from left hand needle to right hand needle with yarn in front as if to purl
C3L: Slip one stitch on cable needle and hold in front of work. K1 in back of stitch, P1, then K1 in back of stitch from cable needle.

And if you want to try an easy scarflette pattern using Slip Stitch Cables - check out this pattern available on etsy for just $4.50.

Or if your interested in purchasing a finished scarf or scarflette I currently have these two available. 

Next Week:  Pearl Cables ~  until then, Stay Warm and keep those knitting needles clicking!