Storm Knitting

I hope that everyone in the path of the storm is shoveled out and has power.  The snow was powder with plenty of blowing and drifting.

I had finished some deadlines late last week and had planned on solid knitting time over the weekend.  Other than sorting out some technology issues, I had plenty of time for knitting.  After I had shoveled, of course.

I picked up my MishMash (Ravelry link) and settled in.  The rhythm of colorwork can be so soothing and relaxing.  Perfect for a stormy weekend.

Storm Prep

Coastal New England is bracing for a major winter storm this weekend.  A significant nor'easter coupled with blizzard warnings will keep most of us indoors, and the French toast alert level is listed as severe.  Snow emergencies and parking bans are already in place.  Many businesses will be closed tomorrow.

This is serious business.  Knitters across the region are rising to the occasion and are lining up their weekend projects.  I've had several emails concerning samples and kits.  What size needles did you use?  What order are the colors in that cowl?  And, heaven forbid, what do I do if I run out of yarn?

I've cleared the decks for my own weekend knitting.

Two donation hats are finished and out the door.  If you need a quick bulky hat, take a look at Eddie Beanie (Ravelry link).  This design offers a wide range of sizes, and it makes a warm, sturdy hat.

Stay safe and cozy this weekend.  Enjoy your knitting!

This week's color inspiration . . .

Ice patterns.  

Knitting for Charity

I recently had a discussion with a few knitter friends about charity knitting.  What projects were they making, what charity were they donating to etc.  Our conversation was still fresh in my mind when a friend posted about a charity knitting project with a special request for kids' handknits. 

Timing is everything.  I hadn't done any charity knitting yet this winter, so I dropped my other projects and got busy.

This hat is almost finished, and there's another one waiting in the wings.  It's extremely satisfying to finish a quick knit, but it's also rewarding to know it's going to a good cause.

From the Back Burner . . .

Yesterday we had a blast at Farm Fiber Day.  Thanks so much to everyone who came out!

The weather was decent, the market was buzzing and it was fun to chat with people in person.  If you missed this Farm Fiber Day, there's another on March 6.  I'll post a reminder as we get closer to the date.

Today I'm picking up the pieces and trying to get settled again.  The truck is empty, so I've accomplished my big task for the day.  I think I can squeeze in some afternoon knitting time.

This project has been on the back burner for a while.  I think it needs some attention.

Thrummed Mittens

How about a new kit to wrap up the week.

Thrummed Mittens - Kit and Class

We've teamed up with knitting instructor Hélène Driesen to offer this kit with a Zoom class on making thrummed mittens.

Thrums are bits of fiber that are knit into the fabric.  They add a warm, cozy layer to these mittens.  The kit includes yarn, fiber, pattern and a 2-hour class with Hélène.  There are several color options.  See website for details.

These kits will be available on Sunday at Farm Fiber Day.  If you plan on going, stop by and take a look at the sample.  Our booth will be in a different location this time.  Check the map.  You'll find us in Zone B.

This fall I wasn't paying attention and broke three of my favorite mugs.  One at a time, not all at once.  Over the holidays I was delighted to get a new mug to add to my collection.  This week's color inspiration reminds me of winter.

Blue-gray swirls.

Feeling Motivated . . .

It's a busy week with dyeing and show prep.  I don't have a full schedule of shows right now, but I plan to have have a well-stocked display on Sunday at Farm Fiber Day.

I have a couple samples almost ready for bind off, so for my afternoon break, I took a few minutes to plan something new.

No, I won't cast on just yet . . . but I might have to wind the yarn so it's ready to go.  I'm off to do some finishing.  There's nothing like the thrill of a new project to motivate me.

Harpers Ferry

I'm back with another sample highlight, and I can't believe I haven't shared this one yet.

Harpers Ferry.

This design features short rows, slip stitches and stripes.  The asymmetrical shape makes it easy to wear.

Harpers Ferry combines mohair with fingering weight.  For the sample we used Lillian and Shimmer, both in March Sky.  The individual colors don't require a lot of yardage, so we used a Mini Multi Bundle.  No. 6, to be exact.

This pattern has many options for color combinations.  Go ahead and experiment!  It's always fun to plot and plan color choices.