April 23rd, 2009
Karida Collins and Libby Bruce, who I met upon moving to VA, over a year ago they offered me to contribute to this fun book they were putting together. It is all about social knitting. Read: knitting in a restaurant or a bar. Book is not only filled with knitting projects but also tons of advice and tips on such occasions, like which drinks would stain and what are necessary projects to keep in your notions bag. And it is just a fun read!
Two of my contributions are shown below.
This is Drunken sweater, it hasn’t been made while being in such condition or had any substance spilled all over it. Only reason named so as the name seemed to be appropriate to for the asymmetry of armholes. And it is very wearable though may seem uncomfortable at first sight. I made it using yummy Shibui Merino Alpaca yarn in Wasabi that turned this sweater in a perfect comfortable winter wear. And I am the one who is always cold.
Front
Back
Haramaki Belt warmer came as this universal garment ( and yes many who know me, I am all about versatility). Actually, Haramaki is a part of a samurai attire that would protect the wearer as it would be stuffed with iron. Not much related to that, but more common use was to keep warm as in Japanese culture is thought that heat is concentrated around your belly area, so keeping it warm would make entire body stay warm. Recently, they have made a comeback in fleece and I have decided to give my own take on it. Can be worn as a wide belt or corset like garment, or pulled down to keep your hips warm, it is suggested to be worn on top of your clothes [on top of jeans/pants , under jacket] and fun pattern makes it a cool accessory. When I got the it back, I tried it again and pulled it up and Laura suggested it as a boob tube for those who can pull it off or even easier one – a cowl. It all worked great! To me, simple tube and mission on versatility accomplished.
It has been made using Neighborhood Fiber Co Watershed yarn in 2 colors and short-rowed garter stitch to create this fun colorwork.
Last week, Knit Happens held a Authors’ Book Signing Party where Holly, Karida and I were signing our patterns in the book (and also most of the contributors are local from around DC area). That was such a fun evening with many delicious cupcakes and even whiskey to boot! (eek!) I want to thank everyone who stopped by and said hello or got a copy! Happy knitting and Socializing (this time i spelled it right) 😉
Rest of pics of the event
here.
P.S. note to self-gosh I need a haircut!
September 2nd, 2008
As we got some chill in the air last week here… some of you may have noticed that on a sidebar I have a new feature now. Recently, I have paired up with Knit-a-gogo Company (and its owner Danielle Romanetti) along some other teachers to offer classes in Greater Washington DC Area. What does this mean? “Creme de la creme” of classes in the area!
I have a list of classes being offered in various locations, some in DC and most of them at Knit Happens yarn store at historic Old Town Alexandria, VA. I am thrilled about these because they have been handpicked and thought over numerous days: for what knitters out there like to learn these days and what is really we can teach not to bore you! I haven’t mentioned it before, but by training I am a teacher of English, so teaching is not something new to me.
Knitting, crochet, broomstick lace, entrelac, jewelry, fair isle, intarsia as well as runway knitting… I do take pleasure if sharing the tricks of the ancient craft with others if you are willing to learn or just curious! Afterall discovering something new to yourself is an intimate moment of celebration, no matter how big or small your achievement is, it would always keep you hungry for trying out more exciting things!
Runway knitting , Fair Isle , Entrelac Bag Classes previews…
You can easily sign up for either of these and many more on Knit-a-gogo website
Also there is a following of Knit-a-gogo Groupies on Ravelry.
Danielle has made it possible for knitters not only hang around learning and knitting at your favourite cafe or restaurant, but she is the best “go to person” if you want to have a knitterly party/shower/retreat!!!
To let you know I am also available for private tutoring in the area, please inquire through the email on the sidebar.
On the knitting news for me.. 6 projects at the same time is not challenging enough I thought.. I didn’t even sing up for Ravelympic… so I have pulled this Labor Day weekend to finish up some of them, make them or break (frog) them, but I do owe some new photos of some… it feels with the first day of Fall my needles should switch into the Turbo mode and stop procrastinating!..
Please, let some force give me patience and more hours of the week!
