Spring Stitches

We've Moved... to SpringStitches.wordpress.com

2010-02-24T07:53:00.001-08:00

Please visit my new blog ‘Spring Stitches’! will welcome you with posts about knitting, sewing, crafts, and my attempts at upcycling. Though this goes against many blog rules about confusing readers, it just feels right to me. I look forward to sharing my creative adventures with you in coming posts, so please come over to Spring Stitches and join me for a cup of tea and some craftiness.

Map of Imaginary Point and the Words to Get There

2010-02-17T05:12:00.000-08:00

"Sometimes great ideas and passion can be eclipsed by verbiage. Knowing what you do, who you are, and who you're talking to can help. It is good to remember your goals and stay focused on the point."

This quote and illustration were created for a Billville blog post.

A Trivet in Cork

2010-02-08T07:37:00.000-08:00

Creating something new and useful from something already created is almost always appealing to me so the classic design of a wine cork just had to find a way to be enjoyed beyond the bottle. Considering what I needed most, I set out to make a simple hot pad for my tea kettle with the corks we had on-hand. Of course, being in love with color I couldn’t resist incorporating a bit of the green that coordinates with our tea kettle and the finished item is practical. Surprisingly it even draws some admiration from visitors - most notice the color coordination too!

I have always saved wine and champagne corks. Years ago, a friend observed our huge bowl of corks and suggested I use them to create one of those Large Wine Cork Boards (using a kit, of course) as a gift for said friend. I was so shocked at the idea of parting with my corks and even more so at the idea of creating something with them then not even getting to enjoy it first-hand. Though that shock also made me realize that if it appeals to more than one person, it must be a good idea. And why not allow Corks a second life, whether in my own home or someone else’s. It just makes good sense to consider existing things as not-so-raw materials. Of course, my big bowl of corks became packing peanuts for wedding gifts stored while we live in Ireland and a whole new cork collection was started in Cork.

If you are interested in the sustainability of cork as a wine bottle closure, check out Put a (Wine) Cork In It, an article by Pablo Paster on Treehugger.com.

Starting from Blank

2010-02-05T14:20:00.000-08:00

The intimidation of a blank canvas is something almost every artist and writer knows intimately. Of course, technology now offers us the chance to battle the blank with blog posts, emails, and web design too! Twitter and microblogging offer the chance to limit characters to 140 and therefore only have to sputter out a sentence or two at a time. Why is that more approachable? I don’t know, but maybe it comes down to the same thing when combatting a blank canvas, sheet of paper, or computer screen - start with one line, one word, one thought…then keep going.

This post was originally shared on my other blog, Billville.

Projects To Finish

2010-02-03T09:06:00.000-08:00

Inspired by a recent post in The Scrappy Knitter, I am making my own list of things I have started that need to be finished. The ‘deadline’ is in parentheses after each project. You can see by the number of question marks, I have issues finishing things I make for myself. Strikethrough means it is done and I will update the list as I add to the projects!

Scarf for Mom-in-law (December 13)
Scarf for Sis-in-law (December 13)
Scarf for Mom (December 13)
Pullover for Nephew (December 13)
Baby Hat (March 11)
Lap blanket (?)
Typewriter scarf for me (?)
Audrey Pullover for me (?)
Baby Gift for Nemo (April 1)
Baby Gift for Squid (April 1)
Baby Gift for Sprout (April 1)

Baking and Burning

2010-01-30T06:33:00.000-08:00

Last week, my friend Keely and I decided it was time to back up our hard drives onto DVDs and set about devising a plan to make it somewhat fun. Hmm, what about if we make cake or cookies too? Baking and Burning Day was born! The rules were now to be set.
Rule One: The cookies had to be easy so baking wouldn’t distract from burning the backup DVDs.
Rule Two: We had to use ingredients we already had in our kitchens and we both had to agree on the combinations.

We rummaged through the cabinets and found the ingredients for Keely’s family’s chocolate cake recipe so she set about making that while I started backing up. Due to the secret nature of some of the ingredients, I kept a discrete distance. I could discern that not one bit of clove, all-spice, or ginger is used, since those were ingredients we didn’t have on-hand. That narrows it down a little.

So, while the cake was baking and the DVDs were burning, we gazed at the ingredients spread out on the counter and tried to decide on appealing combinations for our cookies. I won’t keep you in suspense any longer, two recipes came from our day and they will be shared in two posts in my blog, Cooking Peas & Qs.

Art is in the Heart of the Creator

2010-01-25T05:08:00.000-08:00

Art is what you make of it, but I’ll admit that I do not think of my knitting or sewing or cooking or crafts as works of art. My drawings and paintings are art, perhaps even my graphics, but somewhere between my BA in fine arts and now I forgot that art can be useful. Every day, I create at least one thing that is beautiful and useful without even knowing it. Maybe it’s a beautiful and delicious meal (that I habitually photograph artistically) or perhaps it is a tote bag I design on the fly - it can even be two rows of a knitting project. But these things won’t be on a gallery or museum wall in my lifetime, so I overlook the creativity that goes into them and see them as just another happiness in life.

This random thought is written completely sober as a result of my reading Seth Godin’s blog post, Making Art, and it reminded me that we make art and by creating something we change others even for a split second.

Cast Off - Foldover Baby Sweater

2010-01-19T01:32:00.000-08:00

It’s amazing what goes into a hand-knit baby pullover. My nephew is about to receive his belated Christmas gift and I feel like it’s me who is receiving a gift since it is the first knitting project I’ve ever made that has seams! After three scarves and two baby blankets, I made something that is not a rectangle or square.

Though I used circular interchangeable knitting needles for the project, it was done flat then seamed together. The recipe was inspired by a newborn sweater my friend was knitting and she helped me with the daunting start and proportions, I improvised heavily after that. I ended up winging the project myself with help from someone who had knitted something similar. If you like the idea of knitting a baby sweater flat them doing the seams, check out Jill’s Quick and Easy Newborn Sweater. I think this is the pattern my friend used. I did not follow it only because I am stubborn and have yet to learn to follow patterns.

So how did I do it then, you may wonder… Well, I did a little swatch to test gauge and once I was confident I liked how it knitted up on 6mm, I guesstimated my cast on stitches. The first few rows were moss stitch to reduce rolling then I continued with garter stitch. When I got partway through I received the measurements for my nephew with the reality that I was very off so I had to adjust the sleeves circumference. Thankfully, I already had included 3.5-inch moss stitch sections at the cuffs for folding back as he grows. I created a nice textured stripe design on the front by the bateau neck for a bit of personality. I purled one stitch between the body of the jumper and the sleeves for a seam-like appearance and better folding in that spot (less stiff when on baby). There was some adapting and making it up as I went along for the second half of the jumper, but it all worked out nicely. I ended up finishing the back with 5.5mm needles and the sleeves with 6mm (as I used for the front of the jumper and rest of the sleeves), so the back is a bit tighter gauge than the front. But as my family says, “On a galloping horse, no one will notice.” Which is so true, especially when you consider a galloping horse has nothing on a wiggling one-year-old!

So what went into my nephew’s jumper?
• Exactly 11 weeks of knitting (three to eight hours per week)
• Four buttons
• Learning basic crochet so I could make the button loops
• About 400 yards of Tivoli Storm wool (amazingly, about the same yardage as my usual baby blanket design)
• Love (obviously!)

When I was muddling through the first half of the jumper, I had apprehension that it would turn into anything worth wearing. However, I reminded myself that as a one-year-old, my nephew won’t notice a stray purl instead of a knitted stitch and I am, after all, his favorite aunt. That thought kept me going and in spite of a few issues it is now complete!

I’ve added photos of the finished sweater to Flickr.

Handmade Christmas

2009-12-22T05:23:00.000-08:00

Photo by ElvinPhoto (123RF)

I am making nearly all of my gifts this year and isn't as crazy as you may imagine. You could knit, sew, paint, or carve your loved ones something special, often at a fraction of the cost. For me, I chose to knit things for the ladies and child, give food to the men, and create something completely original for my husband. Sorry, details will have to wait until after the gifts are opened on Christmas morning! But you can do handmade too and it doesn't have to be exactly like something out of Martha Stewart's living room. Here are links to a few quick and simple projects you can take on and finish in a day or two - possibly even a couple hours!

Quick Handknit Projects are better if you already know how to knit. Chunky wool, big needles, not too many stitches wide, it'll be done in no time.

Handmade Snow Globe is fun and great for kids to make with mom or dad as a gift. I made one years ago with clean baby food jar and a plastic prize from my cereal.

Sew, Mama, Sew! has lovely ideas for sewing up a bit of holiday cheer in a handmade gift. If you have a sewing machine or are quick with a needle and thread, this could be easier than decorating your tree.

Better Homes and Gardens offers a list of handmade Christmas gifts and gifts in general. Even if you don't make one of these as a gift, might be a fun Christmas activity for the family when school and work aren't taking you away from one another.

Just Deanna lists simple but brilliant homemade edible gifts. Tasty treat plus thoughtful wrapping and you have a gift that may end up being the most memorable of the year. In my college days, I gave jars of hot chocolate mix and it was insanely easy to make and everyone loved it.

No matter what you give, so long as it comes from the heart and shows you thought of the recipient in this season of giving, it will be PERFECT!

Dear Santa

2009-12-19T14:00:00.000-08:00

Dear Santa,

I know it was hard to find me last year because we were traveling, but this year I will be at home and can leave you milk and cookies. I myself am trying to lose a couple pounds so please enjoy them when you’re here so I don’t find them the next morning and eat them for breakfast. If I do find the cookies uneaten on Christmas morn, I will take it as a personal message from you that I am perfect as a size 8 and to not lose another pound.

Anyway, I know you are very busy with work right now and wish I’d thought to send you this last month before the big Christmas rush started for you and your elves, but you know how things get. Thankfully, the Glamorous Grad Student reminded me and here’s my list. I started one a few months ago (shown here) then forgot to update it, so here is the current and all-encompassing one.

I’ve included A LOT of things in case you have already run out of some things in your workshop/warehouse. I will give this to my family before I mail it and ask them each to cross off what they’re giving me so there won’t be duplicate gifts.

• Velvet Jacket from J.Crew or Boden or Sundance Catalog

• Mini Stitch Sewing Machine

• Mini FlexiPak Container

• Aunt Dimity Slays the Dragon (Aunt Dimity Mystery) by Nancy Atherton

• KnitPicks Options Interchangeable Nickel-plated Circular Needle Set

• Flip UltraHD Camcorder, 120 Minutes (Black) ($149 including free super saver shipping)
• Gadgets for My Canon EOS 400D (Rebel XTi), like Wireless Remote Control RC1and Flash Softbox Diffuser.
• Knit Pro Spectra Trendz Interchangeable Deluxe Needle Set (the multicoloured ‘rainbow’ set)

• Versatile Tee-Shirts for Layering in Winter or Solo in Summer

• A Desktop Surface for a Home Office

• Tripod

• Charcoal Gray Fleece Pullover

• Orla Kiely Shoulder Bag (available at Revolve Clothing, Perri Berri, PiperLime, Mint Julep, eBay)

• Boden Denim Shirtdress (black or vintage)

• One-Yard Wonders: 101 Sewing Fabric Projects

• Sirdar Chunky Click with Wool

• KnitPicks Shine Sport or KnitPicks Shine Worsted (grass)

A few things I don’t really need, but if you have a spare one sitting around your sleigh, feel free to leave it under my tree.

• Sweet Going Out Handbag (like this one from Charm Design)

• Sakura Crystal Necklace or Coral & Turquoise Colorful Exotic Vintage Japanese Glass and Swarovski Crystal Necklace from Beadsss

My best to Mrs. Claus and the reindeer. Hope you all enjoy many a night by the fire with mugs of hot chocolate after the crazy December you’ve been having. Thanks for always stopping by when you’re in town, your visits are a bright spot of our holiday!

Stay Jolly!

Evin

P.S. I’m fairly certain I’ll be on the ‘nice’ list, but just in case I want to ask that if I am on the ‘naughty’ list, would you please give me specifics so I know to avoid that behavior (and lumps of coal) in the future? Super!

Dear Santa... 2009 Christmas by Evin featuring J Crew

Items in this set:
Women's new arrivals - jackets & blazers - Velvet Eden blazer - J.Crew, $98
Velvet Eden Blazer, olive, $128
Classic Velvet Blazer-WE224-Jackets at Boden, $98
Women's shoes/bags: Trace Piper XL - Kelly green, $270
Chic Leather Bag-AM108-Bags at Boden, $116

Our Christmas Tree

2009-12-18T14:20:00.000-08:00

I couldn’t see the point in parting with money for a Christmas tree when we don’t even have a tree stand or enough ornaments. Then I half-joked with myself that I should turn our tall tripod into a tree with some green fabric I have around. Well, one thought led to another and a short while later we have a tree with all the trimmings. I foresee this being a new favorite tradition for me!

I Want to Knit...

2009-12-07T14:29:00.000-08:00

It has been one year since I learned to knit and now I am getting ambitious. This is my massive wishful ‘To Do’ list of knitting projects I’d love to undertake. Whenever possible, I specified a yarn that would be my desired ideal to use for it. I know my ideal may not always be the projects ideal, but hey if I don’t try new things I’ll never evolve as a knitter. At least that’s my positive take on it!

Fishbowl Baby Hat (designed by Elizabeth Lenhard, from 101 Designer One-Skein Wonders: A world of possibilities inspired by just one skein) worsted weight summery yarn.

Cross-Stitch Scarf (designed by Margaret Halas, from 101 Designer One-Skein Wonders: A world of possibilities inspired by just one skein) using Three Irish Girls' Wexford Merino Silk in Carrick, Curran, Devin, Elsbeth, Fiona, Florry, Irish Sea,Megan, or O'Neal.

Indigo Playmate Jacket (designed by Wendy Bernard, from Custom Knits: Unleash Your Inner Designer with Top-Down and Improvisational Techniques) using a bulky cotton or cotton/silk yarn or using Three Irish Girls' Wexford Merino Silkin Curran or Elsbeth.

Ingenue (designed by Wendy Bernard, from Custom Knits: Unleash Your Inner Designer with Top-Down and Improvisational Techniques) using black tweed acrylic DK then maybe one using Three Irish Girls' Wexford Merino Silk in Devin or Irish Sea.

Lion-Neck Cardigan (designed by Wendy Bernard, from Custom Knits: Unleash Your Inner Designer with Top-Down and Improvisational Techniques) using something soft and machine washable.

Tang (designed by Wendy Bernard, from Custom Knits: Unleash Your Inner Designer with Top-Down and Improvisational Techniques) using a cotton yarn or using Three Irish Girls' Wexford Merino Silk in Elsbeth, Emer, or Megan.

Mina’s Tuxedo Vest (designed by Wendy Bernard, from Custom Knits: Unleash Your Inner Designer with Top-Down and Improvisational Techniques) using Three Irish Girls' Wexford Merino Silk in Elsbeth, Fiona, Florry, Megan, or O'Neal.

Cameo Cardigan (designed by Wendy Bernard, from Custom Knits: Unleash Your Inner Designer with Top-Down and Improvisational Techniques) using cotton or cotton-blend DK or using Three Irish Girls' Wexford Merino Silk in Megan.

Sunday Market Shall (designed by Nessa, available on KnitFish) using Three Irish Girls' Wexford Merino Silk in Carrick, Curran, Devin, Elsbeth, Fiona, Florry, Irish Sea,Megan, or O'Neal.

Daphne Purse (from Knitting Little Luxuries: Beautiful Accessories to Knit).

Fish Hat (by Thelma Egberts, available on Knitty.com) using worsted weight random scraps and bits.

Owls Pullover (by Kate Davies, available on Needled) using chunky weight (like Rowan Cocoon) cotton or cotton blend.

Easy Peasy Tee (by Patrizia M. A. Steadman, available on Per Amore) using Knit Picks Shine Sport in grass or using Three Irish Girls' Wexford Merino Silkin Curran. Florry, Irish Sea, Megan, or O'Neal.

Pick, Pick, Pick It Up! Sweater (by LoudXMouse, available on Craftster.org) using worsted weight cotton or cotton/silk/acrylic yarn.

Sweetgum Duncan (by Meghan McFarlane, available on PopKnits) in a cotton/acrylic blend - maybe navy & pink.

Scrappy Lengthwise Scarf (by Zona Sherman of Twirl Girl Fibers)

Hoodie Baby Blanket (available on The Thrifty Knitter) using Lion Brand CottonEase.

Knitting in the City

2009-11-25T15:07:00.000-08:00

With several yarn shops and hundreds of knit and crochet magicians, Cork City is a wool lovers paradise. At least, it is for me. For those new to Cork or just visiting, yarn can be a fun souvenir and going to a knit night can be a non-touristy way to enjoy your time here.

Tuesday nights from 7:00-9:00, The Pavilion on Carey Lane hosts Knitty Wooly Fun Time in the downstairs bar. They state it as “a night to get together to make gloves not war…discussion of design, patterns, materials and techniques…bring yer knitting needles.” Admission FREE

Thursday nights from 6:00-9:00, Vibes & Scribes on Lavitt’s Quay hosts Knit Night in their craft shop. They sell a large selection of wool, needles, hooks, and notions for knitters and crocheters. Admission FREE.

Let Mr. Blue Sky In - Cork City's Flash Mob

2009-11-19T02:11:00.000-08:00

This past Saturday on Patrick's Street, just off our laneway there was a flash mob dancing to the tunes of ELO's Mr. Blue Sky - a song made for Irish weather if there ever was one. It was brilliant! The event was to raise awareness to the funding of the arts in Ireland, including tax breaks for artists.

Here is a super piece describing it on the People’s Republic of Cork website.

And the official [perfectly filmed and edited] video (shot with professional cameras so the high-res takes a while to load). There are many many other videos of the event and I've tried to catch all of them into my Flash Mob in Cork City YouTube Playlist.

It will put a smile on your face. If you're like me and want to see more flash mobs, here is a link to my Flash Mob YouTube playlist. My personal favorite, other than Cork’s, is Centraal Station Antwerpen gaat uit zijn dak.

Yes, I was there with two friends though we did not take part in the dance. I should be visible in some of the clips, but can't remember what I was wearing so that makes it harder to scan the crowd.

I am counting the days until another takes place!!!

Cast On - 300 Stitch Blanket

2009-11-14T01:08:00.000-08:00

With a few jumpers and scarves in progress, I thought it would be fun to make a long-term project that has lasting use - a blanket. So, I calculated and tested gage and decided that big was the way to go since it is more fun to cuddle and share, right? After casting on 300 stitches (yes, three hundred), I proceeded with a slip-stitch pattern or sorts. Now, I am left thinking I am mad to be undertaking a 300 CO slip-stitch blanket since casting on 300 also means binding off 300!

The slip-stitch desire is wavering to the idea of possibly just knitting it in a moss stitch or even garter stitch. I’d love to know if anyone else has found one stitch particularly helpful for blankets. In the baby blankets I’ve knitted, I use a combination of knit and purl which works nicely but something mindless would be good for my colorful blanket project. For such a big undertaking, a simpler stitch would also be nice to keep it from being a more daunting project than it already is. I know I am not the first person to knit a big blanket and wonder what others have found to be steps to success.

Dyeing Wool with Kool-Aid

2009-11-09T05:07:00.000-08:00

It was a rainy Sunday afternoon and we decided to embark on a yarn dying adventure. With Kool-Aid brought by friends visiting from the States and instructions from the Internet, we were ready.

I had two small hanks (a third is staying its natural color, for now) from the local yarn store, Vibes & Scribes, that were a natural oatmeal hue so we chose colors that would work with that instead of add to its browness. In the end, we opted to dye each hank a different color. We also added a small mini hank of natural ‘white’ Aran wool from Kerry Woolen Mills to each batch so we would have a true color sample to associate with the combination. We dyed three batches total and the results were a fun afternoon with deliciously colorful yarn.

We opted to use one and a half packets of cherry for one oatmeal hank and one packet grape and half of cherry for the other oatmeal hank. Knowing these would then be used together for a project, I took two teaspoons of the grape liquid and added it to one side of the cherry mixture then took two teaspoons of the cherry liquid and added it to the grape mixture. Each bowl then received 1/4-cup of distilled white vinegar to help set the dye. We stirred gently but throughly. Before all this we had soaked the yarn in tepid water for a few minutes then drained the tepid water and lightly wrung the yarn of excess moisture. Having the wool already wet helps it absorb water more quickly so when it is added to the Kool-Aid bowl it knows what to do. Each hank was added to its own bowl and microwaved for five minutes each. After microwaving, the liquid in each bowl magically changed to clear! Right after removing from the microwave, each bowl was put under the sink facet with running cold water to lower the temperature of the wool and rinse. We then draped each hank over a coat hanger and hung them over bowls (which rested atop layers of newspaper and old dishtowels) to make sure no drippings stained the floor. The wool was hung to dry in a well-ventilated room and dried within 24 hours.

It was so much fun, I grabbed a ball (turned it into a hank with Suzi’s infinite patience) of terra-cotta-hued wool that I wanted to give a punch of color and repeated the process with a packet of cherry and a packet of orange. Interestingly, using just cherry results in a pinkish red color, but using cherry and orange results in a bright orange hue.

Dying the yarn was just as much for fun as for the resulting colors.

Rainbow of Baby Blankets

2009-11-07T05:02:00.000-08:00

The Blue Skies Baby Blanket is done and off to its destined owner in the States. A new little human named Daniel will be enjoying the soft knitted-with-love blanket for years to come. Also completed and posted is the Vanilla Mint Chip Baby Blanket for a newborn who has not yet arrived when this posts. Three more dear friends recently announced their pregnancies so I expect to make more little blankets in time for a couple hatchlings arriving in late Spring.

Each hand-knit blanket takes about 200 grams of double-knit wool, 18-22 hours of knitting, and a bit of time for planning and finishing (weaving in loose ends, washing, wrapping, mailing…). In addition to soft acrylic yarn, it is made with love.

It is a tough choice between waiting until the gender is discovered to start a blanket project and starting early with a gender-neutral hue combination. The Blue Skies Blanket has different shades of blue with bits of cream and flecks of yellow. The Vanilla Mint Chip Blanket is green and cream for a surprise baby gender. Green or yellow seem to be classic colors for gender surprises. Yellow does seem more feminine and green slightly more masculine, but combining them with each other or with a hue that is not pink or blue might lend further neutrality, girlish grace, or boyish charm. Here are some of the color combinations I have in my sketchbook.

NEUTRAL: Shades of Green; Shades of Yellow; Green & Yellow; Yellow & Orange; Green & Gray; Yellow & Gray; Orange & Gray; Aqua & Yellow; Aqua & Gray; Aqua & Green; Gray & White; Dark Navy & White; Red & White; Aqua & White; Green & White; Red & Yellow; Yellow & White; Orange & White.

GIRL: Shades of Pink; Shades of Lavender; Green & Pink; Green & Lavender; Pink & Brown; Pink & Yellow; Pink & Orange; Pink & Navy; Lavender & Pink; Lavender & Gray; Pink & Gray; Pink & Red; Pink & White; Lavender & White.

BOY: Shades of Blue; Green & Blue; Green & Navy; Blue & Navy; Green & Black; Aqua & Navy; Aqua & Blue; Blue & Gray; Blue & Yellow; Blue & Brown; Orange & Brown; Black & Blue; Green & Brown; Navy & Gray; Blue & Orange; Navy & White; Navy & Yellow; Blue & White.

Roll-Your-Own Sushi Night

2009-11-05T15:39:00.000-08:00

We've been on a sushi kick lately. It started with a friend bringing over homemade sushi and reminded me of the roll-your-own sushi nights I enjoyed as a child. The old skills came right back and we were enjoying delicious sushi for dinner one night, then another and another. No raw fish for us, but cucumber and avocado seem tasty enough.

The best part is that we can whip the ingredients together, let them chill in the fridge and slice the rolls for dinner. Much easier than taking on the whole process after a day at the office.

Where to find the supplies and ingredients to make sushi in Cork City? Here's my list of 'go to' places:

• Rice cooker was €15 at Argos.

• Bamboo mats and tinned inari sushi pockets are at Mr. Bell's in the English Market.

• Sushi rice, nori (flat seaweed squares), soy sauce, pickled ginger, teriyaki sauce, and wasabi are available at Tesco and Mr. Bell's in the English Market.

Cast Off... Trench Scarf

2009-11-05T06:25:00.000-08:00

Finished another Christmas gift. Ok, wait this is actually the first of the Christmas knitted presents to be completed, but not the first to be started. I started planning these gifts in April. I love how this turned out and it is a soft, cozy, hand-washable scarf that my sister-in-law will hopefully love.

Cast on 30 using both yarns together. Knitted the first two rows then knit/purl until I reach the change in hue within the Sirdar yarn (from dark shiny brown to matte taupe). Knit back and forth at least three or four rows while taupe is present then resume knit/purl. This creates a ribbed texture only when the taupe is present making it more interesting. No counting, just looking for the taupe. Had a slight issue with an increase, but it's not too bad and the flaw will help prove it's handmade since it otherwise is pretty darn beautiful. Very soft and somehow holds shape nicely.

The length is ideal for wrapping behind the neck and folding over in front beneath a trench --- and the colors are charming when paired with the traditional khaki hue of a classic trench coat or dark brown of a leather coat.

WiFi FrEe LiFe

2009-10-26T05:51:00.000-07:00

Lately, I've been without Internet as we await the waving of the magic wand by Chorus NTL. Ah, there's nothing like patience and I admire how patient they are in getting things set up given the sooner we get Internet the sooner they have another paying customer on the books. Little do they realize that the delay is turning out to be a bit of a blessing in disguise. Sure, my blogs are dusty from lack of new posts and my family probably thinks I am out 'til all hours enjoying the craic and too busy to write, BUT I am getting stuff done!

Yes, in the absence of Internet access, I've...

• ...Unpacked our whole apartment (save two boxes of random stuff I've yet to dissect).

• …Read three books (Washington Irving, Sophie Kinsella, and M.C. Beaton).

• …Seen several live music performances.

• …Napped!

All-in-all, being without WiFi at home has reminded me what real life is supposed to be like without technology interfering.

By the way, for everyone who follows my Tweets, sorry they’ve been so dull, but life has been getting in the way. ;)

Mmm, New Yarn

2009-08-29T06:16:00.000-07:00

This summer has been a slow one for yarn acquisition. In June, I splurged on €30 of wool from Phildar in France, but since then I’ve just been relishing in what I have. Perhaps now that I’ve been knitting a few months my standards have gone up or maybe I’ve just been too busy to shop. Whatever the reason, it was a treat to become the proud owner of two new hanks from Hedgehog Fibres. I can’t stop touching the stunningly soft Silk Worsted in Swamp and can’t wait to knit up the Silk/Merino Worsted in Opalite. The Opalite will be a hat for sure, but the Swamp Silk may become something a bit more creative.

Months ago, I would have debated buying Hedgehog Fibres yarn because of the $30/hank price tag, but now they’re just $23 per 100 grams of knittable love! But after I held and photographed Carol’s Silk Worsted and Sock-weight Cashmere/Merino, my fate was sealed. Of course, with delicious hues like Underworld and Lobster, who can resist?!

Elizabeth Fort Market Festival

2009-08-17T01:44:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday, a few of us went to the Elizabeth Fort Market Festival to enjoy their artisan and craftsman stalls as well as selection of delicious foods. For six consecutive Sundays (August 9, 16, 23, 30 and September 6, 13), the Market Festival will take place from 11:00 a.m. To 5:00 p.m. at Elizabeth Fort’s Garda Station at Barrack Street. Highlights of the festival include Ardsallagh Goat Farm, Baldwin’s Ice Cream, Crafty Confections, Arguing the Mobius, Alfeen Glassworks, JR’s Lemonade, and slow-roasted pork sandwiches.

Ardsallagh Goat Farm is a goat dairy farm boasting delicious goat’s milk, cheese, and yogurt. With over three decades of experience and several hundred happy goats, it’s no wonder the product has caught the attention and admiration of The Bridgestone Guide (“Best In Ireland” 2005, 2006, 2007) and local foodies. We tested a few of their cheeses and finally settled on the Garlic and Turmeric Chèvre (€3.75), though were quite tempted by the Fresh Black Pepper Chèvre since it has a reputation for endurance in the face of forgetfulness (it lasts nicely in the fridge). Ardsallagh also sells other soft goat cheeses in a range of flavors that include: Honey and Oatmeal; Chives; Honey Mustard; Chili Pepper Flakes; and semi-hard cheeses. Mmm. Pictured: Soft Chèvre with Chives, Soft Chèvre with Chili Flakes, and Semi-hard Chèvre.

Baldwin’s Ice Cream is the result of Tom Baldwin and his sweet imagination. Farm fresh ingredients make all flavors from vanilla to honeycomb extraordinary. I hesitate to refer to any of Baldwin’s flavors as ‘classics’ because great care and thought has gone into cultivating and selecting the ingredients. You can also satiate your sweet tooth with flavors Strawberry, Mint and Regular Chocolate Chip, Vanilla Madagascar, Bailey’s, Honeycomb, and Caramel Fudge. Even more ice cream flavors, in addition to a sampling of sorbets, are available from Baldwin’s catering menu. Though based in County Waterford, you can get your fix locally at O’Keeffe’s Grocery (St. Luke’s Cross in Cork City), Jo’s Café (Main Street in Kinsale), Hurley’s SuperValu (Midleton), Farm Gate (Midleton), Posh Nosh (Rathcormac), and Coachouse (Youghal). Pictured: Tom Baldwin with his ice cream. No cone image since the ice cream is so delicious it seemed like a crime to delay eating just to snap a pic. Maybe next time.

Crafty Confections may be based in Midleton, but the cupcakes can be found at markets and special events far and wide. Having gained a reputation for some of the yummiest treats in County Cork, Kelly Cope and her crew tempt us with cake flavors like Caramel, Banana, Bailey’s, Lemon, Coconut, Rich Moist Fruitcake, and the usual standards - Vanilla and Chocolate. They even do wedding cakes! Pictured: Triple Chocolate (chocolate cupcake with plain & white Belgian chocolate buttercream swirl icing) and Raspberry ‘n’ White Chocolate (white chocolate cupcake with real raspberry buttercream icing).

If you are interested in artisan crafts, you’ll be happy to find handmade pottery, crochet jewelry, designer original handbags and laptop cases, hair accessories, and much more. If you’re an Etsy fan, you’ll be happy to know Arguing the Mobius is selling headbands so not only do you get to check them out in-person, but can save on shipping! Alfeen Glassworks is there with colorful, detailed, and one-of-a-kind handmade Irish glass jewelry.

Next Sunday, check out the Cork Butter Exchange Band and the largest military re-enactment in Cork City history!

Virtual Yarn Stash

2009-08-12T03:19:00.000-07:00

Taking photos of my yarn is such fun for me. I think, in the beginning, it gave me a comfortable familiarity with the yarn because I’ve loved photography for a few decades, but only been knitting for a few months. Capturing and creating something with the yarn using a well-loved hobby helped me approach the yarn as a raw material and feel like I can make beauty with it in spite of any setbacks I may have had with my actual knitting. After a few months of this habit, which was fueled by Ravelry, I thought it might be worth sharing these photos. Checking on Facebook, I found too few yarn-related Facebook applications so I created one myself allowing users to send virtual yarn (my photos) back and forth to friends. It was easy enough from there since I still think lighting is the hardest part of photographing yarn (dark and red yarns in particular).

Ravelry.com motivates me to photograph my yarn stash because the Stash section of my profile helps me keep track of my yarn inventory with all the details and a place to upload your own photos! The same photo option exists in their Project section. So, when a yarn stash becomes too big to see them all at once in-person, the Stash section helps make sense of it. Unfortunately, it helps us remember if we already have something, thereby cutting down on new, unnecessary purchases. Sigh.

Since I created the For Your Yarn Stash app, over 3,500 images have been sent! I am amazed, flattered, and honored that people enjoy my photographs so much and it inspires me to be a better photographer and choose more and more decadent yarns in delicious hues. I recently started including brand information with each image so something dearly admired can be sought after and purchased by application users. It was a tough decision to do this since I worried it would make it too commercial, but what’s the point of drooling over something attainable if you don’t know where to get it? Here is a peek at the latest yarn added to the application, a luxuriously soft cashmere/silk worsted yarn from Hedgehog Fibres.

Learning Curve

2009-08-10T11:42:00.000-07:00

The Blue Skies Baby Blanket (BSBB) is coming along nicely. Aside from accidently creating several short rows and having to rip back, it has been smooth sailing with Blue Skies. Already I prefer the look of this blanket to the Vanilla Mint Chip Blanket (VMCB). I think two things make a big difference:

1) The moss stitch is more visible since I did five rows with doubled up yarn as opposed to the four/five rows single yarn on the VMCB.

2) Pairing the patterned yarn with a coordinating color (not white) adds depth and definition to the blanket. I used off-white in the VMCB since the mint green was too difficult to match and though it looks lovely, the BSBB gives an overall impression of being ‘put together’. No matter what, doubling up the yarn adds thickness and gives the piece a more substantial feel.

On future projects when I decide to double up the yarn, I will keep color in mind. I know this was successful for the Mint Chocolate Hat.

Cast On - Blue Skies Baby Buggy Blanket

2009-08-07T02:47:00.000-07:00

As mentioned in my Vanilla Mint Chip Blanket post, I am starting a new buggy blanket to give as a baby gift. The Blue Skies Baby Buggy Blanket will also be done in a size ideal to keep baby warm while in a stroller or buggy without dragging on the ground. Though I was thrilled with the result of my last blanket, I have higher hopes for this one.

I cast on 84 stitches in sky blue acrylic and cream Azurite. After the last buggy blanket edging, I decided it was worth experimenting a bit to make knitting the edges a bit easier and part of the process instead of one more thing to do at the end. The five rows of moss stitch on each end will be sky blue and off-white while the body of the blanket will be sky blue and the Magi-Knit. The body of the blanket will be knit/purl with a texture change to accentuate certain color combinations. The side edges of the blanket will lay flat with the help of two stitches of knit/knit on each side. Smaller size for best use while baby is in his buggy/stroller. This is being made as a gift for a friend who is expecting her second son. I’ve already missed the baby shower, so I am trying to get it done as soon as possible.

The first eight rows have been done and it is looking great. I am realizing how important gauge is when creating a beautiful moss stitch. The moss stitch in the Vanilla Mint Chip Blanket does not have the same substance as with this blanket, but still does the trick of keeping the blanket flat-ish and having an interesting edging. I am really thrilled with how the blanket is looking so far and wish moss stitch wasn’t so time consuming or I’d do everything in that! But I think I feel that way every time I learn a new stitch.

What I Miss, What I Love

2009-08-05T12:07:00.000-07:00

It has been over a year since I made Ireland my home and in that time I have changed as have my tastes while some things remain the same. Last year, I predicted all the things I would miss and some of those missed their mark. To celebrate being an expat for over a year, I am creating a new list of things I miss from the States (Wish It Were Here!) and a list of all the things I would miss if/when we move back (Where Have You Been All My Life?) - I also added a list of things I thought I wouldn’t find in Ireland that are, in fact, available in some form (Old Friends).

Wish It Were Here! *If you’ve found any of these in Cork, please share where in the comments

• Root beer for floats (I know it’s out there… somewhere)

• Yuengling Lager (though Abbot’s Ale House has an amazing selection of other lovely beers)

• Knit Picks yarn

• Hanes, Ann Taylor LOFT, Lands’ End and J.Crew

• Trader Joe's (specifically their mochi, green salsa, sesame sticks and snap pea crisps)

• Soy bacon

• Green tomatillo salsa or even green tomatillos

• Being able to spend a weekend with family

• Kraft Mac & Cheese (in the blue box)

• Elbow macaroni

• Old Bay Seasoning

• Dark chocolate M&Ms

• Cornbread mix

• UTZ crab chips

• Ranch dip

• Netflix and Red Box rentals

• Pepperidge Farm Goldfish

• Being able to watch my favorite shows on TV instead of buying them on iTunes

• Sunnyvale Public Library

• Picnics in the Napa Valley

• Two buck Chuck

• My friends and family

Where Have You Been All My Life?

• Driving on the left

• Bulmer’s Cider

• Ballymaloe House Relish

• Aldi stores

• Tanora (works well for floats)

• Marks & Spencer convenience food

• Coriander in a tube

• Banoffee pie

• My new friends

• ‘Father Ted’

• Useful bus system that thinks outside the city

• Crumble mix, scone mix, brown bread mix,…

• Being able to hop in your kayak to go to to the grocery store or match (not that we do, but we could)

Old Friends

• Cranberries or cranberry spread for sandwiches (Tesco, SuperValu,…)

• REAL guacamolé (IF I make it from scratch)

• Black beans for homemade burritos (Tesco)

• Mochi (Wagamama)

• Ranch salad dressing (it’s not quite the same, but it’s better than nothing)

• Being able to order things from Amazon and Overstock (it’s still not the same though)

• IKEA being local (almost, it’s in Dublin)

• Pretzels (nothing like Snyder’s though)

• Maple syrup

• Maker’s Mark (it’s here, but it’s very expensive)

• Warm, sunny days with no humidity (occasionally)

Cast Off - Vanilla Mint Chip Baby Blanket

2009-08-05T07:46:00.000-07:00

I finished my second ever knitting project this weekend. The baby blanket, which I have nicknamed Vanilla Mint Chip Baby Buggy Blanket, took about 18 hours from start to finish over the course of three weeks. I am now undertaking a second buggy blanket in shades of blue for a friend who is about to welcome her second son into the world. The reference to a buggy blanket as opposed to a regular baby blanket helps define the size and intended purpose. Many baby blankets are too big to cover the legs and torso of an infant or toddler in a buggy (aka a stroller) without a bit of dragging on the ground or they are tucked in around the child so much the bunches of fabric get in the way. The buggy blanket is just enough to cover a bit without excess blanket in the way. At least, that’s my hope - not having a child to test it on leaves me in the theoretical knitting arena on this project.

This was the first time I actually knitted a swatch to test gauge. The final gauge was 16 stitches by 26 rows = 4”x4” on 6.5mm needles. The main section of the blanket is two yarns knitted together - Distrifil Azurite (211) and James C. Brett Magi-knit Baby DK (Y105). The edges are five rows of moss stitch (or at least an attempt at moss stitch) just in the Azurite on 4mm DPNs. I cast on 100 stitches and knitted/purled until I would reach the green part of the patterned yarn then once there was a row of entirely green loops (paired with the cream Azurite) on the needles, I would do the opposite to create a texture enhancing the look of the color change. For instance, if I would have normally purled a row, I would knit it instead, leaving the little loop bumps on the other side of the blanket. It is such a simple ‘pattern’, but the result draws many comments about how amazing it is that the pattern’s ridges coincide with the yarn’s color shift. Not even coordinated since I don’t count the rows between texture ‘stripes’.

For the Blue Skies Baby Buggy Blanket (yes, another nickname that just rolls off the tongue), I will approach it slightly differently since the edging was annoying the way I did it. Not sure yet what I’ll do, but I’ll decide today and post about it ASAP. Here’s a photo of the finished Vanilla Mint Chip blanket.

Cork Button Factory

2009-07-27T04:31:00.000-07:00

Don't be fooled by its modest exterior, the Cork Button Factory has as many buttons as you may ever need. We've mentioned this shop before in our Where To Buy Yarn in Cork City post, but this time it is featured all on its own because yarn is just a tiny portion of what makes this place a local treasure.

From floor to ceiling, the main section of this Pope's Quay shop is organized by color and style with buttons in plastic tubes with one sample affixed to the outer-facing end. If you ask, they also have thread, zippers, and other fastening supplies. Essentials such as Velcro, acrylic 'wool'/yarn, crochet hooks, knitting needles, jeans' buttons, dressmaker pins, and measuring tape are available by the counter or if you ask. Belt loops are in the mix with buttons. Rumor has it, the little-shop-that-could supplies to the city's tailors and seamstresses.

As I have experienced, if you bring in the item that lost its button, someone will kindly help you find a replacement. It may not be the perfect match, but some of the buttons are so detailed and beautiful it makes me almost want to change out the buttons on all your boring cardigans! I did give in and change out the buttons on one shirt from plain black to ladybugs and it made a ordinary yet classic top into something with personality and a summer feel.

Tips for Success:

• Some buttons have been here for eons so if a color isn't exact on the outside sample, take a peek in the tube since fading occurs on the outside one.

• Ask for help if you need it.

• If you are looking to match a button to an existing piece of clothing, bring the item with you.

• They are open on weekdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (they stay open during lunch), but are closed on weekends. This may be frustrating, but just remember that they work hard and need to take care of their own messages, errands, and lives come Saturday and Sunday.

Easy to Share

2009-07-14T13:38:00.000-07:00

Now Pints & Purls is even easier to share with friends on the fly with its new referral link... http://pintsandpurls.tk/

PintsAndPurls *dot* TK

Kinsale Arts Week - Knitting with Stitch n Bitch Cork City

2009-07-13T12:23:00.000-07:00

Knitting with 'Stitch n' Bitch' Cork City as part of Kinsale Arts Week

Sunday, 19 July, 2009

12 Noon - 5pm

Temperance Hall
Ages 7 + Materials and knitting needles supplied (although you are welcome to bring your own) Free but donations welcome

A selection of hand-made items will be available for sale at the event Join the 'Stitch n' Bitch' network from Cork City at the Temperance Hall for a cup of tea, a bit of a chat and, of course, some knitting. If you have kids, it's something you can do as a family. And if you are up for it, you could also indulge in the latest - and very fun - craze to hit the streets 'guerrilla knitting'.

Kinsale Arts Week - Free Events

2009-07-06T12:32:00.000-07:00

Kinsale Arts Week kicks off next week with concerts, exhibits, workshops, and so many other ways to allow you to enjoy art in its countless forms. Here are a few of the free events as part of the week-long festival, but check the website for more options which include concerts at Charles Fort!

The Friary Lunchtime Series

KAW Artists Trail - West Trail (only self-guided option is free)

KAW Artists Trail - Inner Trail

Colin McClean Latin Trio

Brian O'Doherty - Fort Within a Fort at Charles Fort (regular Charles Fort admission fee required)

One Stop Shop - Paintings by Sheenagh B. Geoghegan

X to the Power of Three

SOS - Sounds on the Square

To Make it Home

To Have and Have Not

Street Day

KAW Craft & Design Fair

Design a Surfboard Competition

Amateur Surf Photography Competition

Focus on Surf Culture

Guerilla Knitting

2009-07-05T09:37:00.000-07:00

Public art can be grand and featured, such as a sculpture or mural, or whimsical and unexpected, such as guerrilla knitting. We've heard about it, but now we have our very own examples in Cork City! Seen in front of the Cork Vision Centre - this pair of googly-eyed creatures.

Guerilla knitters usually plan ahead, creating a project then when on-site sewing it up to go around a tree, lamp post, sign, bench, public phone,... you get the idea.

Around Europe in One Year

2009-06-26T00:58:00.000-07:00

Today is the one-year anniversary of my arriving in Ireland to live. It has been a challenging, exhilarating, and blissful 12 months. There are so many things I've learned, but one thing that surprised me a little was how many places we've visited while living here such a short time. Since August 2008, we've been to: West Cork, Amsterdam, Killarney, Kinsale, Midleton, Youghal, Cobh, Barcelona, London, Glendalough, Vienna, Ring of Kerry, Kenmare, Rome, Sorrento, Capri, Ischia, Brest/Bretagne, Paris, Blarney, Waterford, Washington D.C., and Dublin.

Knitty Wooly Fun Time

2009-06-24T17:06:00.000-07:00

Just saw that on Tuesdays The Pavilion hosts Knitty Wooly Fun Time which is knitting!

Tue 16 Jun 2009 Knitty Wooly Fun Time The Pavilion (Dowstairs Bar) 7:00 pm 9:00
Admission FREE
Cork group starting May 12 from 7-9 in downstairs bar…a night to get together to make gloves not war…discussion of design, patterns, materials and techniques..bring yer knitting needles.

Traveling and Meeting Fellow Knitters

2009-06-20T12:03:00.000-07:00

Before traveling to France this month, I looked on Ravelry to see where users in the cities I'd be visiting bought their yarn, hoping to get shopping ideas for myself. In the course of admiring yarn, I was so amazed at a few Ravelers's projects I had to write them and reiterated my inquiry. As a result, I made plans with two fabulous women to meet while I was on holiday. They each were welcoming, kind, and great company. As an added bonus, I met a third Raveler by chance! It was one of those cute moments when she asked what I do and I mentioned my blogs and she asked what I blog about and I responded and once the word 'knitting' was out we started shouting and jumping like school chums reunited. I look forward to keeping in touch with all three and basking in the kind world we live in. When so much negativity, violence, and oppression is seen in the news each day, it is a glimmer of hope to know there are still good people out there with warm hearts and open minds.

World Wide Knit In Public Day

2009-06-20T05:32:00.000-07:00

Today, we will be enjoying World Wide Knit In Public Day in Fitzgerald Park. What fun! Though our local KIP fun is not on the main KIP Day website, it will be happening. Makes me wonder why we need one particular day to draw us out of doors.

Tagged by Fly Along

2009-06-19T07:34:00.000-07:00

I got tagged by beata:

4 places I lived in:
1. Maryland
2. Cailfornia
3. Cork
4. Philadelphia

4 places I like to come back to:
1. Capri
2. Normandy
3. Maryland
4. Wherever my family is

4 favourite dishes:
1. Spaghetti
2. Mom's Pandora Chicken
3. My chili
4. Scallops or Ray

4 dishes I can not stand:
1. Undercooked eggplant
2. Anything tartare
3. Pork ribs, for obvious reasons
4. Warm cantelope

4 hobbies:
1. Reading
2. Knitting
3. Writing/Blogging
4. Photography

4 places I would go if I had a chance:
1. Bermuda
2. Bora Bora
3. Oregon
4. New England

4 TV series, programs I like
1. NCIS
2. Bones
3. Wonderfalls
4. The Wire

4 places of work:
1. MBA admissions (top ten program)
2. Independent bookstore
3. Management consulting firm
4. Private high school

4 things I'd like to do:
1. Run without my asthma kicking in
2. Design and make my own clothes (if it took me longer to acquire pieces maybe my closet would not be so overfilled)
3. Settle down and have a house or child or both
4. Write a book and have it published

4 favourite movies:
1. Groundhog Day
2. Sabrina
3. Legally Blonde
4. Hello Down There

4 favourite acts:
1. Cake
2. Fred
3. Death Cab for Cutie
4. Great Big Sea

4 things I do first when logging on online:
1. Check my email
2. Ravelry
3. Facebook
4. Blog updates

Same as Beata... Four people are invited to continue this in their own blog, but instead of choosing who is next, if you are reading this and have a blog, consider yourself invited.

Why I Wanted to Learn to Knit

2009-06-18T13:57:00.000-07:00

While growing up, I was blessed with many wonderful aunts and aunties. As with most families, some aunts shared family history while others shared friendship. My Aunt Margaret had a knack for the creative creations and a good gift from her was a pair of cozy pastel slippers. Her gifts gave me a strong connection between great aunt gifts and something crocheted or knitted. Decades later, I still remember my many slippers from her so when I received the wonderful news that I was to be an aunt, I grew determined to learn to knit so I could be that thoughtful aunt who gave slippers or scarves as gifts. Though I had attempted to learn to knit in the year before the news, I was unsuccessful. I realize now that my love of food kept getting in the way of my lunchtime learning sessions. The key was to learn without food nearby to distract me. One of my grandmothers was extremely proficient in knitting and crochet so I thought that my genes should be good at it and given my background in art studio and my solid fine motor skills, I had high hopes that I could learn to knit or crochet. Luckily, I found a knitting group locally and a patient friend who has taught me the ways of the needles. Soon, perhaps I will also learn to crochet. For now, I still see some of the results of my group’s hooks and needles to be akin to magic! In late July, we will be sharing the joy of knitting and crochet at the Kinsale Arts Week. A fun chance to be behind the needles that just last summer I was wishing I could steer with deft.

Buying Yarn in Brest, Bretagne, France

2009-06-09T08:04:00.000-07:00

While in Brest this week, I couldn't resist checking out a couple yarn sources recommended by a friend from Ravelry. I was informed it would not be luxury yarns, but definitely something different than what I get in Ireland. I discovered, yarn is expensive everywhere. Though for €30, I was one dozen skeins richer. Not bad considering they were all in delicious blues and greens. My friend also surprised me with nine skeins of a beautiful stormy gray wool that I think wants to be a vest. I am keeping an eye out for the right pattern and may look for the same yarn in a different colorway to use for the edging, but the stormy gray is just so great and will be versatile to wear with many things. Thank you, Joëlle!

For those of you visiting Brest, here are the two places I checked out upon recommendation that have yarn:

Phildar, 47 Rue de Siam, Brest (see photo)

Monoprix, 49 Rue de Siam, Brest

Missing Yarn

2009-06-01T20:23:00.000-07:00

Eek, I am knitting a rather lovely gift for my sister-in-law and can't find the second skein of one of the yarns. It's hiding from me. I keep trying to think like yarn to figure out where it went, but no luck. It's likely I took it out to photograph with the project and it wandered off. I entered two skeins in my stash on Ravelry so I know a second one exists in my possession so at least I am not just super forgetful. If I were yarn, where would I be?

Cast On - Christmas Scarves

2009-05-21T08:55:00.001-07:00

With a mere seven months until Christmas, I have started knitting scarves to give as gifts to my mother, mother-in-law, and sister-in-law. If all goes well, I may have time to make something for my wee nephew. Thankfully, I can keep accurate photos of all these in my Ravelry projects folder because my family doesn't check there, but since they may perhaps stumble across this post I cannot post any more details except that so far the first scarf is going VERY well.

Cast On - Christmas Scarves

2009-05-21T08:55:00.000-07:00

Vibes & Scribes Expanded Yarn Options

2009-05-18T08:47:00.000-07:00

Cork City knitters, rejoice! Vibes & Scribes's Lavitt's Quay craft-focused store has expanded its yarn selection. Still mainly luxury, colorful, and decadent options, but much much more of them!

New Yarn from Kerry Wool Market, Henry Street, Kenmare, Co. Kerry

2009-05-15T12:03:00.000-07:00

Last month, while in Kenmare for the annual Jack & Jill Run [Up The Hill], I stopped into Kerry Wool Market. Liz there was quite helpful and though the selection was limited I was thrilled to find 200g Aran wool skeins for €7.95 each (the lowest price I've found yet). Sadly, I did not find Spin A Yarn until after it had closed.

Ball Winding Mania

2009-05-15T08:36:00.000-07:00

Carol loaned me her ball winder to tidy up my yarn collection and it is nearly addictive. As a tidier and organizer, it was like the ultimate craft gadget and a way to make neatness of my yarn tangle. Now, they're all sweet and happy in their little cake-like shapes. Of course, I re-photographed them all pretty. Those pics made it into the For Your Yarn Stash Facebook app.

Cast Off - Mint Chocolate Hat

2009-05-08T05:14:00.001-07:00

Just finished a little knit hat. It's darling, soft, cozy, lopsided, and a sign I need more practice.

Made using acrylic DK in brown and grey/sage for variation in colors and added thickness and warmth. I knitted it on 6mm circulars then finished the top with 2.5mm double-point needles.

Second-hand Shops in Cork City

2009-05-08T03:15:00.000-07:00

There are many second-hand shops in Cork City, most of which focus on clothing but a few carry household items as well. By last count, I encountered about one dozen and am listing them below. All the shops listed are Irish charity shops, selling donated items to raise funds for their respective causes EXCEPT for Chambers Stitch or Switch Shop, which buys and sells as a business.

I will add more details (such as what they each carry, hours, tel #) as I collect them, but wanted to get the list out there for you to enjoy.

Barnardos 
99 North Main Street  
Tel: 021-425-1727 
Hours: To be added
Website

C.A.S.A. 
68 North Main Street  
Tel: 021-427 9840  
Hours: Mon-Sat 10:00-17:30 
Website

Chambers Stitch or Switch Shop 
Washington Street  
Tel: To be added
Hours: Mon-Sat 10:00-18:00 (in addition to monthly Swap Nights) 
Website

Concern Worldwide 
91 North Main Street  
Tel: To be added
Hours: To be added
Website

Enable Ireland  
32 North Main Street 
Tel: 021-427-2828 
Hours: Mon-Sat 9:30-17:30 
Website

Enable Ireland 
39 Princes Street 
Tel: 021-427-8280 
Hours: Mon-Sat 9:30-17:30 
Website

Gorta 
90 North Main Street 
Tel: 021-425-4608  or 021-490-5771
Hours: To be added
Website

Irish Cancer Society 
4-5 Castle Street 
Tel: 021-427-2257 
Hours: Mon-Sat 10:00-17:00 
Website

Irish Cancer Society 
13 Princes Street 
Tel: 021-490-5675 
Hours: Mon-Sat 10:00-17:00 
Website

Mrs. Quin's Charity Shop 
53 North Main Street 
Tel: 087-139-4338 
Hours: Mon-Sat 9:30-17:30
Website

Oxfam Ireland
10 Cook Street 
Tel: 021-427-5490 
Hours: Mon-Sat 9:30-17:30 
Website

Fred’s Fashions (benefiting St. Vincent de Paul)
2 Tuckey Street
Tel: 021-427-0445 or 021-427-0444
Hours: To be added
Website

Pretty Yarn

2009-05-02T09:22:00.001-07:00

Now available from CafePress, my yarn-focused photography and graphics in the Purly Mights shop. One such item is the Purly Journal ($11.89), ideal for keeping notes on patterns and projects as well as tracking your extensive yarn stash.

Girls' Night Out

2009-05-02T05:58:00.000-07:00

Fun nights out have no age barrier here. Once when I was out knitting at a bar (yes, knitting in a bar) and two mature women peeked in the window and saw a few of us with our yarn. We couldn’t hear them, but I swear they giggled with delight then came in to enjoy a cuppa. The knitting in a bar habit has drawn attention at other times, including (but not limited to) an out-of-towner asking to take a photo of us because it was just so cool that we were knitting in a pub. Awe shucks, yeah, we’re just brilliant and killing our eyesight when the lights get dimmed. But it’s still worth it for the fun we have.

For Your Yarn Stash

2009-04-29T04:58:00.001-07:00

My photographs of pretty yarn are now available for enjoyment through a Facebook gift application, For Your Yarn Stash.

Shimmery Lacy Gray Scarf

2009-04-17T12:47:00.001-07:00

After finishing my confetti popcorn garland skinny scarf, I needed to start another forgivingly simple project to do on the side while working onmy Ingenue Jumper. I had this lovely yarn in my stash and thought it would make a sweet neutral summer scarf. Right now, I have either wool, cashmere, or fleece winter scarves or brightly hued cotton/linen/silk scarves - it was time for a neutral.

I am improvising the pattern to attempt to create a lacy look since this yarn is rather simple aside from its shimmery qualities and an interesting knit will add beauty no doubt.

My Improvised Pattern (I hesitate to use the word 'pattern' since it's really more like a series of dance steps that creates a neat effect):

Cast on 30 stitches for a fashion width, double that for a warmer width. Here are the row sequences:

1. Knit

2. Knit

3. Purl 2 together

4. Knit

5. K1 front & back

* Repeat steps until desired length is attained or you run out of yarn.

So far, the 'pattern' creates a stripe texture and a scalloped edge and because of the odd number of steps the textures alternate on the two sides of the scarf for greater variation of texture and visual interest.

Taking Time to Stop and Admire the... Green Lacy Cardigan

2009-04-17T11:19:00.001-07:00

My husband gave me this sweater as a gift last year. It is a cardigan in a wrap style. Though the design is rather open, it is amazingly warm and cozy (lambswool, angora, nylon blend).

Cast Off - Completed My First Knitting Project

2009-04-16T07:00:00.001-07:00

I cast off on my very first project - the Popcorn Garland Scarf (formerly known as the Confetti Skinny Scarf) is done. The total length of the scarf is 95 inches.

It appears so much is still on the spool that I guessed to have only used one-third of the stash amount. It rolls into itself nicely so it's not a matter of laying flat as having a knitted rope to wear. Would probably be a nice belt too except for the extraordinary length.

It is thrilling to have completed something and I think little projects such as this balance out the jumper I am working on (Ingenue pattern).

Lucky Yarn

2009-04-15T15:38:00.001-07:00

I hope this is a lucky sign for the future of this yarn.

Confetti Skinny Scarf - Like a Party Around Your Neck

2009-04-13T14:18:00.001-07:00

Here is a peek at a long skinny scarf I am knitting. It reminds me of confetti or a strand of mini marshmallows. Quite sweet and not as bad to work with as you'd think. Using 10mm needles.

Hedgehog Fibres - Cork-based Spinning/Dyeing

2009-04-13T08:40:00.000-07:00

Since learning to knit a few months ago, I have found a new appreciation for knitwear and yarn. The shift came nearly three months after I learned my first stitch and had only experienced knitting with acrylic yarn. That was, of course, until I squished my first skein of silk-blend yarn. I was hooked! It is like having only eaten a Hershey bar then trying chocolate truffles fresh from Belgium or some such place. There is no looking back now.

Going with the chocolate analogy, it stands to reason that handspun and/or hand-dyed yarns would be even better! That brings me to the luxuriously delicious yarns I am currently adoring. All are from Hedgehog Fibres. Prices start at $30 for 100g (200m). Priced for special projects (like a shawl or baby hat/sweater) or if you want to give your favorite knitter or crocheter a very thoughtful gift, pair with a pattern.

Of course, I will still enjoy working with acrylic and there are fine points for the fiber, but I have really learned that certain projects demand special fibers - and some luxury fibers create special projects that may have otherwise been rather ordinary.

: Hedgehog Fibres. L-R: (Top Row) Meadow Cashmere/Silk Worsted, Malachite Silk Singles, Bronzed Lead Silk Singles; (Bottom Row) Drift Away Merino/Bamboo/Silk Fingering, Signal Cashmere/Silk Worsted, Shell Silk/Merino Worsted

Taking Time to Stop and Admire the... Wool Fair Isle Jumper

2009-04-11T20:15:00.001-07:00

I've had this short-sleeve Fair Isle-style jumper for so long I can't recall when exactly it joined my wardrobe, but lately it has been lovely for layering over a long-sleeve tee. I am learning to appreciate vests with sleeves!

Playing With Yarn

2009-04-10T11:40:00.001-07:00

I am not a 'cat person', but I am starting to feel for the little critters and why they'd want to go around batting at balls of yarn - balls of yarn are so soft! Well, some anyway.

Throwing It Back

2009-04-09T22:14:00.001-07:00

Not long ago, I wrote about a new scarf I was knitting in my post Catch of the Day. Well, I am throwing it back in the ocean. I have no idea what I did, but it is looking rather unwell and with the consistency of the yarn it is unforgiving. When one mistake occurs, it is very visible. Here's one last look before the scarf goes into permanent hibernation.

Taking Time to Stop and Admire the... Pink Cashmere Hat

2009-04-08T11:05:00.001-07:00

Now that I know how to knit a little, I find myself admiring knitwear with new admiration. Honestly, I've always had a bit of a thing for sweaters (as my husband or overflowing closet shelves) so it isn't a stretch to be adoring them all the more, but my standards have shifted in a higher direction of late. And since I am seeing so many beautiful knits in the stores and my own wardrobe, I thought I'd post pictures of pretty things other people have done with yarn to keep me inspired to hone my knitting abilities.

Today, I am sharing a photo of my pink cashmere hat. My brother-in-law gave it to me for Christmas the first year I was officially family. I love the bright color and it even has a whimsical pom-pom to top it off.

New Yarn from Cork Wools (Cork City)

2009-04-07T09:06:00.001-07:00

Today, I had fun looking through Cork Wools's offer bin. I came home with a few lovely yarns and deals, including two skeins of Louisa Harding Kashmir DK (color: Mint) for €1.99 each. Yes, you read correctly! I've only ever seen it on offer - here (for $8.85) and here (unavailable at this time).

Where to Buy Yarn in Cork City

2009-04-03T12:45:00.000-07:00

Here are a few of the places that sell yarn in Cork City...

Youghal Knits
23 Princes Street, Tel# 021-4251251
Lovely yarn, very kind and helpful staff, ready-made sweaters available for purchase, good selection of needles and buttons too! If you like the cozy little independent shops, this place is waiting for you. Here, there's no shame in asking for help finding a budget yarn for a project. They sell yarn and a variety of knitting needles (including circulars).

Cork Wools
10/11 Market Parade (between English Market and Patrick Street), Tel# 021-4274816
Tucked in the arcade corridor this place has a good selection of basic and luxurious yarns. You'll swoon over some of the offerings. They sell yarn and a selection of knitting needles (including circulars).

Vibes & Scribes Arts & Crafts

http://www.vibesandscribes.ie/4.html
21 Lavitt's Quay (different than their new books and used books stores), Tel# 021-4279535
Best price I've ever seen for Kilcarra Aran Wool (€3/50g or €10/250g select dyes). Broad selection of delicious colors and soft textures - recently expanded considerably. Some yarn comes with a free pattern! As of April 2009, they host a weekly knit night on Thursdays from 19:00 to 21:00. Nice chance to drop in and knit with others. They sell luxury wools, alpaca, etc... as well as a selection of needles (mostly straight).

Hedgehog Fibres
http://www.hedgehogfibres.etsy.com
Web-based shop specialising in rich-hued hand-dyed merino, bamboo, silk, and cashmere. If you have a special project and want it to be handmade from start to finish, this is the place to look for your yarn. For those of you in the States, you can order online and have it shipped ($5) directly to your home. Best part is that you know no one else will have that exact color combination and textured yarn - makes perfect gifts for a discerning knitter. For tourists wanting to bring yarn home but not having time to browse extensively, this is an easy way to get what you want without subjecting your traveling companion to browsing yarn shops.

Hickey's Fabrics
The Savoy Centre, St. Patrick's Street, Tel# 021-4277005
Corner devoted to knitting supplies. Good selection of yarns. Lovely place and well-lighted. Like many retail chains, the staff are prompt about their closing time. So, don't expect to rush in ten minutes before closing and leave with what you need unless you know exactly what it is, where it is, and how much you need. Not as willing as the smaller yarn shops (particularly Youghal Knits and Cork Wools) to put down everything to help you look for the right supplies for your project. They sell yarn and a selection of knitting needles.

Cork Crafts
Paul Street Shopping Centre (same building as Tesco)
Yarn selection for knitting as well as yarn, thread, and supplies for other needle crafts, such as needlepoint and such.

Cork Button Company
4 Pope's Quay

Hours: 10:00 - 17:00, Monday through Friday

Limited selection of yarn that seems to be suited for those looking to knit or crochet a baby blanket. Mind-boggling selection of buttons. Rumored to supply buttons and thread to the local tailors, so if you need a particular thread or are searching for a special button design, this is treasure for you to behold. They sell yarn and a small selection of knitting needles.

Vibes & Scribes Hosting Knitting Night

2009-04-02T08:12:00.001-07:00

Tonight is the first night Vibes & Scribes will host its weekly knitting night. They plan for it to take place in their Lavitt's Quay shop on Thursday evenings, lasting two hours.

To prepare, it appears they've stocked up and organized their wool selection and I noticed some new options as well as lower prices on a few things. I only saw bamboo/wood straight needles there, which is a shame since they have a lovely yarn that comes with a free sock pattern.

Catch of the Day

2009-03-31T07:26:00.001-07:00

I started knitting a skinny scarf using the delicate cotton I bought last week. Though it may be better suited for crochet, I was curious to see how it would knit up on 6mm needles. I cast on with 13 and so far it is looking sweet. It will be a nice little scarf for summer, but also a change of pace from knitting with the Kilcarra to make my Typewriter Scarf. If I was a faster knitter in a warmer climate, I'd use the yarn to make an entire swimsuit cover-up.

If you like my writing...

2009-03-30T08:55:00.001-07:00

If you like how I put together sentences, you'll be interested to know I write four separate blogs.

Freckled Past Unique gift ideas and thoughts on appreciating moments, people, and items made with care
http://freckledpast.wordpress.com/

Cooking Peas & Q's Recipes
http://cookingpeasandqs.wordpress.com/

New Yarn from Youghal Knitwear (Cork City)

2009-03-29T08:03:00.001-07:00

I chose four skeins of a lovely acrylic to make the Ingenue sweater from my new book. It is Tivoli Buzz DK in almost black with flecks of color throughout. Purchased at Youghal Knitwear on Princes Street (off Oliver Plunkett) in Cork City. I went in looking for yarn for this pattern specifically and brought the book with me. She helpfully went through my options and understood my need to not use wool so I could wear it without protective anti-itch layers. Though it was not easy, she listened to my desire to have a somewhat neutral hue (not beige or white) with flecks in the yarn (not stripes). Success! That shop is a favorite of mine because they are always so helpful and friendly.

My First Pattern Book

2009-03-27T15:31:00.001-07:00

Today, I purchased my very first pattern book to help me with knitting projects. It is very exciting and the book came highly recommended. The book, Custom Knits: Unleash Your Inner Designer with Top-Down and Improvisational Techniques by Wendy Bernard, is available from Amazon.com for $18.15 (eligible for free Super Saver Shipping). I bought my copy at a local shop, Vibes & Scribes.

I also decided to undertake one of the sweaters in the book as soon as possible since my 'typewriter scarf' is coming along nicely. The book seems to really grasp modern styles that are lasting as well as ways to enable the knitter to customize the patterns to be their very own. Though the sweater I plan to make is suggested to be made in wool, I plan to make it in cotton, bamboo, or acrylic so I can wear it without layering (wool makes me feel itchy).

New Yarn from a Friend

2009-03-22T18:52:00.001-07:00

A friend gave me two skeins of lovely Lion Brand Homespun in Coral Gables. The color is delicious - like raspberry-mango sorbet. I've been wanting a cozy yet sturdy cable knit jumper in such a perfect pink, but I think that is beyond my current skills. Thankfully, I have faith that by the time those skills do exist, they'll still be making delicious pink yarn! Here is a close-up of the beautiful hues this yarn has to offer. It's as soft as it looks!

New Yarn from Double Knit (Cahersiveen)

2009-03-20T20:57:00.001-07:00

Today, we went on a drive around the Ring of Kerry. On the way, we stopped at a few small towns to stretch our legs or enjoy a bite to eat. In one such town, Cahersiveen, I noticed a little shop with yarn in the window. I may be new at knitting, but I've learned that multiple balls of yarn on display in a shop window usually means there is more to be found inside. I went in and couldn't believe how much yarn was packed into such a cozy shop. I bought two unlabeled balls of this fuzzy wool that reminds me of chocolate-covered blueberries then both my passengers came to find me so I had to leave to lunch with them. One said they wouldn't go anywhere without me and the shopkeeper commented how sweet that was. I hated to ruin the sweet thought she must have had, but had to admit that 'I'm the one driving'. After lunch while they enjoyed ice cream cones, I snuck back to the shop and bought several more yarns. The shop is Double Knit at 2 New Market Street in downtown Cahersiveen, County Kerry. Here is a photo of my bounty and the shop.

They Grow Up So Fast

2009-03-18T22:01:00.001-07:00

My scarf is starting to look more and more like an actual scarf. It is satisfying to make something and have it become that thing. I know that doesn't always happen, like in cooking what I try to bake doesn't always come out how it looks in the photo, but with care and skill what you knit can look like it's supposed to. That's downright exciting!

New Yarn from This Is Knit (Blackrock)

2009-03-11T10:56:00.001-07:00

Today, I went to Dublin and had a wee bit of time to spare so I visited This Is Knit in Blackrock. There are two locations in existence and both in County Dublin. I went to the Blackrock location at 19A Main Street in the Blackrock Market. Though it appears like everything in that alleyway would be closed when the market is not in action, not true. I took a photo of the door with the hours so you can easily recognize it. The other location is on the first floor of the Powerscourt Townhouse Centre on South William Street of Dublin 2.

After oohing and aahing over all the lovely colors and textures and possibilities, I got down to business and bought a KnitPro Symfonie Wood Interchangeable Starter Set as well as two Louisa Harding Merlettos (Lavender). I had mild concerns it would be hard to switch from metal to wood, but I adapted easily to whatever differences exist. The woman at the store was endlessly helpful and patient. I initially wanted enough Merletto to knit a vest, but at 5.45 per ball I changed my plan to be a skinny scarf and lacy hat instead. I'll post a photo of the yarn when I actually start working with it.

Day in Dublin

2009-03-10T14:52:00.000-07:00

Today, I spent the day in Dublin and it reminded me of all the places I love to go for meals while in that fair city. Here is a list:

Dunne & Crecenzi (Italian restaurant)
14/16 South Frederick Street, Dublin City Centre D2
Tel: 01 677 3815 -or- 01 675 9892
Hours: Mon-Sat 7:30-23:00
Sun 10:00-22:00

Elephant & Castle (restaurant/pub)

18 Temple Bar, Dublin 2
Tel: 01 679 3121
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00-23:30 (breakfast 8-11:30, lunch/dinner 11:30-23:30)
Sat-Sun 10:30-23:30 (lunch 10:30-16:30, dinner 16:30-23:30)

Nude (organic 'fast food')
21 Suffolk Street, Dublin 2

Also, there is a great knit shop with two city centre locations:

This Is Knit (knitting/crochet shop)
1st Floor, Powerscourt Townhouse Centre, South William Street, Dublin 2

Making Progress

2009-03-06T10:52:00.001-08:00

Even though I am knitting barely any faster on this than on the green monster practice blob, it feels like I am making more progress. The neat part of it is that I can set little goals for myself with the stripes. For instance, I will knit two rows here and two rows there. I'll admit that it also helps me keep track of my rows because sometimes in my previous project I would set it down in the middle and forget which direction I was knitting because it was all the same green hue. Definitely a positive project. Did I mention it kinda coordinates with a hat I got at Debenham's?

Decreasing Stitches

2009-03-01T14:01:00.001-08:00

Elizabeth Zimmerman's Knitting Glossary is very helpful in understanding some of the mechanics of stitches and how to decrease in a few different ways. I am still trying to comprehend the differences, but at least I know more than before. I loaded it on my iPhone and scrolled to the right section to find out how to decrease stitches on my Typewriter Scarf. Yup, I resorted to my old 'increasing' ways again. I started with 50 stitches and I want to keep it that way since this is a real project. It is sooooo wonderful to have a little knitting help handy when I want to learn more or fix a problem and since each demonstration is mere minutes it is nice to do while waiting in a queue or such.

There is also a nicely done video on YouTube - The Knit Witch shows how to decrease stitches using SSK (Slip, Slip, Knit).

Typewriter Scarf

2009-02-28T10:46:00.001-08:00

I am calling my striped scarf my Typewriter Scarf because the knitting and sliding motion of creating it reminds me of my old manual typewriter and the carriage return. If I wasn't into typewriters, it would have been named after corn on the cob because the yellow stitches resemble the roundness of corn kernels. But I think of corn as a summer or late spring thing to eat so a wool scarf would mess with that image anyway. Yes, I know I've given this WAY too much thought. Here's a peek at it...

Starting a Striped Scarf

2009-02-23T09:33:00.001-08:00

With the help of Carol's knitting expertise, I am starting a striped scarf with the lovely Kilcarra Aran Tweed. I am so lucky to be knitting with yarn geniuses. The project will be knitting on 4mm circulars so the striping can be done simply be knitting and sliding and knitting and sliding and so on. I feel like I just got the training wheels taken off my bicycle!!

Next Please!

2009-02-20T10:34:00.001-08:00

After a month on the East Coast of the U.S. of A., I was glad to return to cozy Ireland and curious to see whether I remembered how to knit. Well, surprisingly I do! To celebrate, I am declaring my green monster practice knitting to be done. The uneven edges will make you think, 'Oh no you're not, get right back to practicing, dear.'

The Friday Night Knitting Club

2009-02-17T14:48:00.001-08:00

I just finished reading The Friday Night Knitting Club by Kate Jacobs. What an enjoyable read! I thought it was good enough to share so I featured it in my Freckled Past Shopper's Blog.

Bright Lights, Cork City

2009-02-14T11:05:00.000-08:00

A beautiful night view of Cork City Centre from the centre of the River Lee.

Elizabeth Zimmerman

2009-02-13T19:56:00.001-08:00

A Knitting Glossary, by Elizabeth Zimmerman and her daughter Meg Swansen is touted as the definitive video demonstrating knitting techniques. Nothing can replace the help of a real person, but this is something that won't curse at you when you ask it for help at odd hours of the night. The DVD is available from Amazon.com ($40).

Getting Fat

2009-02-09T17:45:00.001-08:00

I am getting quite discouraged by the 'increasing' of my stitches. The green monster practice project is getting fatter and fatter as I knit. Where do stitches come from? The current theory is that I am splitting my yarn when I go in with my knitting needle. The remedy is that I should count my stitches regularly and learn to decrease before it gets exponentially bad. I am SO ready mentally to make an actual something instead of just practice, but not so ready skill-wise.

Knitting Needles & Flying

2009-01-18T13:26:00.001-08:00

Knitting seems like a perfect thing to do as a passenger. Time can go by and projects can get done and there is something to keep your hands busy so you can forget that you are not being fed. Seems a shame to waste spare time without a project in-hand, but there are safety issues with knitting needles that I had not realized.

Rick Steves's helpline has a thread about this which you may find informative:
http://www.ricksteves.com/graffiti/helpline/index.cfm?top...

Cork International Airport currently has this on their main page:

Please remember to remove all sharp items from your hand luggage. Cork Airport Security staff will not allow you to carry any sharp items in your hand luggage. Items most frequently found include: scissors, tweezers, tools, knitting needles, knives, darts, household cutlery, razor blades, etc. In order to facilitate the efficient operation of Cork Airport’s passenger security process, passengers are asked to remove outer jackets and belts, before they approach the screening machines. Lap top computers must be removed from their cases and opened to reveal the keyboard.

As disappointing as it is to be traveling and not making use of the time (particularly on long flights), I'd hate to have brought something and have someone with bad intentions use it against me or a fellow passenger. Makes the good old book seem more attractive. But where do I stop being cautious? I regularly bring my knitting everywhere in my purse so if waiting for any length of time I can stitch in a row or two. It really makes me long for the simpler days, except I definitely don't miss the days when smoking was permitted on planes!

Taking a break

2009-01-09T10:31:00.001-08:00

I am traveling back to the States for a few weeks to visit my family. Since I know how busy that will keep me, I am not bringing my knitting. To be honest, I think I could use the break since looping row after row (very slowly) of the same yarn is getting a bit unfulfilling. If I can still knit when I get back I will call it quits on the practice piece and start a real something.

Fourth Photo from the Fourth Folder

2009-01-08T12:48:00.000-08:00

I opted to be tagged by The Glamourous Grad Student.

Here are the rules...
1. Go to the 4th folder in your computer where you store your pictures.
2. Pick the 4th picture in that folder.
3. Explain the picture.
4. Tag 4 people to do the same!

I use iPhoto, so I went to the fourth photo from the fourth event.

The photo is taken at the Tacoma Glass Museum in Washington, just south of Seattle. It must have been fairly late at night since it was June and the sun was setting around 10-ish at night those weeks. I remember that day distinctly. It started with the Underground Seattle tour, browsing Pike Place Market, afternoon at a spa, and finishing with a peek at the glass museum through its closed doors and windows.

: My Fourth Photo from the Fourth iPhoto Event

New Yarn from Vibes & Scribes (Cork City)

2009-01-08T10:40:00.001-08:00

I bought a few skeins of Kilcarra Aran Tweed to for Sturdy Mama and picked up two for me as well in yellow and gray (one each). I couldn't resist and want to make something striped with them. I still have not grasped the concept of how many skeins it takes to make a scarf versus a sweater or even how to tell the weight and length of a skein without a label, but that will come in time I suppose.

A Little Bit of Ireland on CafePress

2008-12-29T12:30:00.000-08:00

In my time here, I enjoy seeing beauty in the little moments of the day, from the bakery opening for the day to the fog lifting off the River Lee. To share these views and do something creative, I am designing and selling things on CafePress. Here is a list of my shops...

Newest shops:

Amsterdam NL: Views of the Dutch city of Amsterdam.

Barcelona (BCN): Views of Barcelona, Spain.

Look Fat: Making humor of carrying a baby and the extra body that comes with by asking “Does this baby make me look fat?”

Make Tea Not War: Designs incorporating an alternative way to suggest peace on earth - at least during high tea.

County Cork: Vibrant photography of County Cork, Ireland. Currently, an image of several Doors of County Cork is customized for the items which are available for purchase.

Most popular shops:

Eire Blessing: Design featuring the complete traditional Irish Blessing

For Foodies: Food-related Items for Cooking and Food Enthusiasts

Irish Smiles: Shamrock design carefully crafted

Ode to Julia: For Julia and Chef enthusiasts

Run Conor Run: Original Designs for Runners and Running Enthusiasts with a Special Focus on Sponsor Appreciation Gifts for Charity Runs and Irish & Irish-American Runners.

All my shops:

100% All Natural

1993 Tartans: Merchandise to support AHC class of 1993 events

9 Month Belly: Fight for your right to not have your belly touched

Aloha Mahalo: Ocean-focused designs

Amsterdam NL: Views of the Dutch city of Amsterdam.

Babies Talk: Oh, the things babies would say!

Baby En Route: For the mom-to-be and about-to-arrive baby!

Barcelona (BCN): Views of Barcelona, Spain

Bottle Baby: What a baby would do for a bottle

Bridezilla Etc...: Charming & Funny Items for Bride-to-be and her Entourage

Capitol Images: Photographs of Our Nation's Capital

Chic Chic: A bit of Parisian chic tossed with plenty of whimsy

Chirp Chirp: Honoring nature's musicians

Cooking Peas & Q's: Merchandise related to food, usually ingredients or dishes featured in the Cooking Peas & Q’s column or blog.

County Cork: Vibrant photography of County Cork, Ireland. Currently, an image of several Doors of County Cork is customized for the items which are available for purchase.

Crawl Walk Jog Run: Running Merchandise

Dark Roast: Designs for Coffee Enthusiasts

Dry Clean Dangers: Babies/kids do not mix well with dry clean only clothes

Earth Sweet Earth: Designs paying homage to mother earth

Eire Blessing: Design featuring the complete traditional Irish Blessing

Evin O'Keeffe: Original & Unique Designs by Evin O’Keeffe

Evin's Designs: Original & Unique Seasonal Designs

Ewe Express It: Seasonal Designs with Sheep

Fat Tummy: Baby and Expectant mother apparel

For Foodies: Food-related Items for Cooking and Food Enthusiasts

From The Past: Designs that will remind us of our grandparents’ garden

Gnome on the Range: Items for Garden Gnome Enthusiasts

Happy Cupcakes: COMING SOON!

Here Comes The...: What is with the here comes the airplane line?!

Holiday Delivery: For mothers-to-be expecting a holiday-time due date or anyone expecting a big gift from Santa.

Irish Smiles: Irish-themed designs

It’s Beachy Keen: Beach-themed designs

Look Fat: Making humor of carrying a baby and the extra body that comes with by asking “Does this baby make me look fat?”

Love Ewe: For Valentine’s Day and any other day! Fun for someone who loves sheep.

Lucky Ewe: To brag about how lucky ewe truly are! Great for those who love sheep.

Make Tea: Designs incorporating an alternative way to suggest peace on earth - Make Tea Not War - at least during high tea.

Marathon Facts: All items bear the original and clever Marathon Facts design.

No Words Yet: Just what a baby wants to say, but before speaking words

Ode to Julia: For Julia and Chef enthusiasts

O'Keeffe: Merchandise with the O'Keeffe Coat of Arms

On Film: Ordinary, Extraordinary, and Whimsical Moments Caught On Film

Party In My Crib: For the new parents and their new nightlife.

Pause for Paws: Cat Photography and Designs

Pencil You In: For the busy guy, gal, or toddler.

Plump Cheeks: To warn against pinching plump cheeks. Cute for baby!

Pour La Maman: For the mommy, new and not-so-new - whimsical designs celebrating who you are.

Preppy Baby: Classic, Colorful & Preppy Gifts with Special Focus on New Babies. Whales!

Rock & Roll Baby: For the baby with an eye on a rock star career.

Run Conor Run: Original Designs Created for Runners and Running Enthusiasts with a Special Focus on Honolulu Marathon, Irish & Irish-American Runners, and Sponsor Appreciation Gifts for Charity Runs

Slice of Pi: 3.14159 and edible pie as well!

Solid Food: For the baby eyeing your pizza and dreaming of solid food.

Such A Card: Gifts for Card Game Enthusiasts.

Summertime Baby: For those who love summer and those who are born in the summertime

Sunny Athletics: Silly & Fun Athletics Designs

Telemarketer Baby: Fun for parents with a quirky sense of humor

Umbrella Days: Umbrella Designs

Valentine's Baby: For those who are due or born on Valentine's Day (or just grown-ups who love the holiday)

Wag The Dog Pets: Fun Pet-focused Items

Wee One: Designs for the littlest friend or family member

Wild Parrots: Unique Urban Nature Photography

With Care: Handle with Care themed design

Why is it getting wider?

2008-12-23T20:39:00.001-08:00

For some reason, my practice knitting is getting wider. The girls in knitting said I am 'increasing' though I don't fully understand how it happened. Maybe it's a good skill and I am a natural increaser, which makes me feel like I know what I am doing - somehow I doubt it should be a source of pride. I placed my little green monster in my scanner to see it flat [and honestly]. Sure enough, I am 'increasing' like mad! I should try to knit in a straight line, which I suspect is a handy skill for the long term.

Knitting Kits

2008-12-19T14:41:00.001-08:00

Thrilled with my newfound ability to knit (thanks to a patient and superb teacher, Carol), I wanted to compile a list of knitting kits and starter goodies to make learning more accessible to others. Of course, knitting kits are not necessarily any better than a ball of yarn and a pair of needles, but the colors are interesting and it probably gives you a good start with understanding a pattern, which is still a bit of a mystery to me. The list is featured today in my Freckled Past Shopper's Blog.

Here is the image I created to go with the list, you can see the top and bottom edges are close-up views of stitches. This is my practice project that I scanned, edited the hue, then used as a border. I purposely chose the section without obvious errors.

Happy Birthday to Me

2008-12-16T21:59:00.001-08:00

For my birthday, my husband bought me a pair of 4mm circular needles, a skein of super soft yarn, and a felt tote to hold them in Barcelona. The weekend itself was fabulous and there's nothing like not having to do work or chores on your birthday to make it feel really special. We found the knitting goodies at El Cortes Ingles.

If you are traveling to Spain soon and want to include yarn shopping in your itinerary, All Tangled Up has a lovely and thorough post.

Repetition as a form of learning

2008-12-01T06:50:00.001-08:00

I am repeating the same stitch (still can't remember the name) until I learn to execute it with consistency. This is by choice, not a punishment though it may sound like one. Thankfully, I chose a dark muted green acrylic to learn with so my eyes are not blinded after hours of staring at the yarn. I am using 4mm straight needles, but they are not so long that they swing everywhere, which I like. I will keep up with this practice project until I feel confident then I will start a real project (likely, a scarf). Here is a photo of how it looks.

Ravelry

2008-11-24T08:45:00.001-08:00

At knitting group, I was told that Ravelry would be helpful to join since most of the group was on there and it allowed easy communication, but also had free patterns and good support for new and expert knitters (crochet too). So, I went to the site and requested to join... now I wait. Ravelry invites its members to join in a timed manner so they only allow a certain number of people to join in any given day and it takes a few days from the point of an invitation request to when you receive the link to join. During that time (which is now in my case), it is easy to check on the status of the request/invitation, but I am being patient. Besides, I need time to think of a cool user name!

I Can Knit!

2008-11-19T11:21:00.001-08:00

Last night's knitting group was such fun and I LEARNED TO KNIT!!!! I don't know the name of the stitch or really know how to do it consistently, but baby steps. Nothing else to tell, but wanted to share the exciting news. This is what it looks like so far...

Yarn & Needles In-Hand

2008-11-18T18:45:00.001-08:00

I ran over to Cork Wools off St. Patrick's Street (Cork City) and bought basic acrylic yarn and 4mm needles so I am all set for tonight's knitting group. Did I mention I am nervous? I am actually quite shy at times so living in a new city let alone a new country has given me a challenge to get out and meet people and hope that some turn into friends.

Fingers crossed that the group members like me and that I learn to knit without inconveniencing anyone.

Where to go and what to get

2008-11-15T18:10:00.001-08:00

Just a few days until I go to a meeting of the knitting group. I am nervous that they will not be open to a new person let alone one who doesn't already knit. Just hoping they are as nice as everyone else I've been meeting here.

Before moving, I had two friends each try to teach me to knit on separate (and multiple) occasions. I was using large bamboo needles and burgundy yarn in my attempts but did not have much luck at all. Each of these friends was infinitely patient and knowledgeable so I know it was just that I may not have been in the right frame of mind to learn. And that is very likely considering we would always have 'lessons' at lunch when I am very focused on eating. The needles and yarn I had there couldn't make the trip due to limited luggage space, but the memories came with me.

To be ready for the group, I need to buy needles and yarn. She suggested Vibes & Scribes for the dear and fancier yarns and Cork Wools for all around options. Acrylic or cheap wool yarn was recommended as a good one to learn with and that the label of the yarn package would advice what size needles to use. Evidently there are circular needles, which I suppose are different than the needles I see in Miss Marple movies. I will go over and get yarn in the next few days.

Determined to learn

2008-11-14T09:04:00.001-08:00

Here I am living in Ireland and enjoying more spare time than I've had in a few years so why not learn a new skill. I looked at courses to learn knitting, but honestly I don't need to be an expert so learning one stitch is enough (at least for now). My grandmother knitted like crazy and was amazing with crochet as well. For this reason, I feel an odd confidence that I should be able to do that as well... with time and practice and patience, of course. I've always been what some may say is 'crafty' or more commonly 'creative' and 'artistic' so learning new ways to create beautiful things is a perfect excuse for a hobby to me.

Aside from local classes, I thought a knitting group may be a nice option and perhaps I could find someone in the group who would be willing to show me how to knit. It seems like such a big thing to ask of someone, but worth a try, right?

I looked on Gumtree to find out about local knitting groups or informal classes and also looked at Etsy sellers who focused on yarn and related items and were located in my region. So helpful! A few replies with lovely encouragement and an invitation to drop in on a knitting group that meets regularly near me! I'm doing a little happy dance.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle - Swap Clothing

2008-11-14T06:49:00.000-08:00

They say swapping is the new shopping and this has been touted on the tele as well as in magazines. This makes a great deal of sense in the ever-growing concern for the environment since the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Resource Conservation and Recovery Act perceives many textile manufacturing facilities to be among the largest hazardous waste generators. Of course, bits of fabric here and there are bound to add up, but the dyes and treatments take a true toll on our planet. Which makes you think if you need a red sweater, why not look at one that has been around the block since you would then be supporting recycling of apparel. It is no small leap to consider thrift, charity, second-hand, and swap shops to be the new hot spots. Not only do they offer recycled items, but also more variety. If you shop at a department store there are dozens of the same item being sold in your city at that time and you will be dressing like many others. But clothes can travel from far and wide and end up in a second-hand sales situation so there is greater variety and sometimes you find something exotic.

This morning, a friend and I explored Chambers, a bar across from the Cork City Courthouse. Perhaps the origin of the public house is a place for judges and solicitors (lawyers/barristers) to go for a bite or pint and be able to tell their families, “Sorry I’m late tonight, I had a meeting in Chambers.” But today, it is decorated with bolts and swatches of fabrics as well as upholstered dressmaker forms in its daytime role as swap shop. Upon entering, it was quiet since we arrived just after it opened, but within an hour it was bustling (but still not crowded like Penney’s). The way it works is that you can bring something ingood condition and clean from your closet and approach the bar with the item(s). The keeper will look it over, keeping in mind the current inventory needs, then let you know if it can join their rails (aka, racks) or if it will stay yours. If you decide to part with it, you receive a voucher for use at that place. Now, here is the beauty of Chambers - the voucher is good towards clothing, alterations (done in-house), or drinks when Chambers is serving as a pub. Yes, you can bring in your lovely dress you’ve never worn but wish you had a reason to and get a pint instead. There is such poetry in this. Sometimes items are desirable but not needed in the inventory since Chambers has very limited storage space so you’ll be told if that’s the case and can bring it back in a few weeks time, as was the case with the pair of jeans I brought. There are two fitting rooms and if you get something that needs alterations, there is a seamstress on-hand. Everyone is so nice too - I took forever in the fitting room because I am still unaccustomed to what size I am over here and no one fussed at me or gave me dirty looks (they may have been thinking about it though).

If you don’t bring anything, you can still go home with something by just buying it (so old school, I know). I bought a green/white houndstooth mini kilt, a cream linen embroidered skirt, a brown lightweight sweater, and an Asian-inspired silk handbag for just 26 Euros. The reasonable prices and fair trade-in offers are what keep people coming back and that keeps the inventory fresh.

All-in-all, it was a wonderful experience and perhaps a habit forming one. It has the appeal of very reasonable prices, friendly staff, clean, innovative business idea, and you are recycling.

Learning to Knit

2008-11-13T09:00:00.000-08:00

This blog chronicles my desire to learn and adventures in knitting. I am not sure with what frequency my posts will appear or how much I will share, but this is a start.

The name 'Purly Mights' reminds me of the nickname for teeth, pearly whites. Except with 'mights' I am reminded of my attempt to learn a new craft/skill so I believe it fits nicely with what I will be blogging about.

Doors of County Cork

2008-07-26T10:32:00.000-07:00

There is so much brightness and a variety of hues on the doors of County Cork. Having been in love with color from an early age, I am loving the rich colors surrounding my new home. I couldn't resist taking photos of all the doors that captured my attention. I'll admit that on our walk up to Charles Fort in Kinsale, it took a very long time because I kept stopping to take photos. There is one particular block in downtown Cork City Centre in which each door is a different color. It is picturesque. I had heard this was so men coming home late (and a wee bit inebriated) could find their home by the color of the door.

I love the doors so much I created a compiled image of my favorites and uploaded it to CafePress. Check it out: http://www.cafepress.com/countycork