tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1014923752451067922024-03-19T10:21:38.364+00:00Tales from Mount PleasantAntheahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719630480668686454noreply@blogger.comBlogger482125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-101492375245106792.post-75097094665171371052016-02-28T09:29:00.005+00:002016-02-28T10:03:06.301+00:00Yarn review - Fat Bubba by Melanie Porter<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC30f7j4pz1-dPO3UaC893DqENq6szdMlHF72-cUDqmz51Dfp7gFBgtMp0vFAhWDKbii4voh4TTb_q9QL-gQgtjOpYKqTnlfG-h0BVVDpLWW0L85COCSbBmuzcYwJVL9zyo7R7UkwfovI/s1600/20160217_130354.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC30f7j4pz1-dPO3UaC893DqENq6szdMlHF72-cUDqmz51Dfp7gFBgtMp0vFAhWDKbii4voh4TTb_q9QL-gQgtjOpYKqTnlfG-h0BVVDpLWW0L85COCSbBmuzcYwJVL9zyo7R7UkwfovI/s320/20160217_130354.jpg" width="320" /></a>Following on from <a href="http://www.talesfrommountpleasant.com/2016/02/book-review-big-needle-knits.html">my review </a>of Melanie Porter's book 'Big Needle Knits' the other week I was having a lovely chat with the lady herself over on Twitter and she offered to send me a sample ball of her amazing Fat Bubba wool to have a play with.<br />
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Fat Bubba was born when Melanie tried unsuccessfully to source top quality super bulky British wool for her chunky knit projects so she decided to create her own!<br />
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Fat Bubba is hand spun and lightly felted and so unbelievably soft it just begs to be knitted up into beautifully squishy accessories or blankets. It is available in a small range of contemporary colours. Mini fat bubbas (250g /approx 36m) are perfect for a hat or cowl whilst the larger 500g balls would knit up a longer scarf or a cushion. A blanket may require 2 or 3 large balls - which at £50 each makes for quite an expensive project but it would certainly introduce a touch of luxurious style to your home.<br />
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Fat Bubba weighs in at approximately 15m per 100g. It doesn't sound like a lot of yardage but when combined with extra large needles a little goes a long way!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdFXxts6L9CpVr7D8Ob74izfY145Nl0REkQV4gmPfeyEy_kwcSRQv0UQ5dUi_Rw8igRsfZYbba4S9Qy9gSqwaMc_cNr6c7A-Sk-dOz8NzQ9DY-DdehFD83-uowN7qWM6SKB-zdBqUUXeQ/s1600/IMG_20160222_150257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdFXxts6L9CpVr7D8Ob74izfY145Nl0REkQV4gmPfeyEy_kwcSRQv0UQ5dUi_Rw8igRsfZYbba4S9Qy9gSqwaMc_cNr6c7A-Sk-dOz8NzQ9DY-DdehFD83-uowN7qWM6SKB-zdBqUUXeQ/s200/IMG_20160222_150257.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJpfSWnZgTaZPlgMhFPOOODP3p81-OyHNQjb3U6HDcEp8aPvBupi5mzu-qg9iKUY874S0_4OHeiA4IIuOZdFZxDbk6OeplJp8DRdU0bSP5AfPsZRTm_CeRuZZBHlEk3bZD7NxZXPzau2k/s1600/IMG_20160218_100353.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJpfSWnZgTaZPlgMhFPOOODP3p81-OyHNQjb3U6HDcEp8aPvBupi5mzu-qg9iKUY874S0_4OHeiA4IIuOZdFZxDbk6OeplJp8DRdU0bSP5AfPsZRTm_CeRuZZBHlEk3bZD7NxZXPzau2k/s200/IMG_20160218_100353.jpg" width="200" /></a>My sample ball was approx 20m - and was the most glorious egg yolk yellow colour! Using 25mm needles I cast on 4 stitches and knit 30 rows which left me just enough yarn to lace the two ends of my knitting together to form a tube. One super snuggly cowl in 15 minutes! If quick knits are your thing you can't get much quicker than that!!<br />
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Fat Bubba yarn by Melanie Porter is available to order through her <a href="http://melanieporter.com/iknitit/">website</a> or <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/MelaniePorterDesign">Etsy shop</a> where you can also buy custom made super chunky needles to knit it up with.<br />
If you fancy having a go at making your own fat wool Melanie includes full instructions on how to do so in her latest book 'Big Needle Knits'<br />
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*disclaimer - Melanie sent me some Fat Bubba to try because she is just a lovely person, I decided to review it here because it is fab! <br />
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<br />Antheahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719630480668686454noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-101492375245106792.post-74559116994682117542016-02-21T10:46:00.000+00:002016-02-21T10:46:59.360+00:00What's on my needles - FebruaryHello! Can you believe we are over half way through February already? It will be spring before we know it! (I do hope so!!) Not unsurprisingly I have been using the coldest, greyest winter month as an excuse to encase myself in super chunky wool with not one but two blankets on my needles right now!<br />
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The first - a pretty lap blanket in three coloured linen stitch - I introduced in my <a href="http://www.talesfrommountpleasant.com/2016/02/book-review-big-needle-knits.html">last post</a>. It's growing quite nicely into a pastel coloured dream of squishyness (probably not a word but I like it ). Both cats have shown a lot of interest in this one and I can't help thinking that they may be taking total advantage of it once it's finished if I leave it lying around unattended...<br />
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My second blanket is the <a href="http://www.woolandthegang.com/product/koselig-blanket-pattern/knitting-pattern">Koselig Blanket</a> from Wool and the Gang - yup that's the one I designed for GangLabs. It's been well over 18 months since I spent the hottest week of the year knitting up the sample. I'm still not entirely sure how I managed to knit those huge cosy panels without melting away - a good ceiling fan and plenty of rocket lollies may have been involved - but it is certainly a much more pleasant experience this time around. To make the task even easier Wool and the Gang have now sourced 25mm circular needles which means it is possible to knit the whole blanket in one go rather than in panels! Yay!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlvwG_vwqn23uux_YsJfOp7SYog4obr9jPzjNkkB7eo-sjLeX3TOdmkhaAALcblfvgqmnqqVq6GwegQDvpHuIEQFHAYh_c8syhi1-MzKXp6hMoXtgHmBLTYsOhTU-q9wOfc0LnwLnJ-Qk/s1600/IMG_20160218_080608.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlvwG_vwqn23uux_YsJfOp7SYog4obr9jPzjNkkB7eo-sjLeX3TOdmkhaAALcblfvgqmnqqVq6GwegQDvpHuIEQFHAYh_c8syhi1-MzKXp6hMoXtgHmBLTYsOhTU-q9wOfc0LnwLnJ-Qk/s320/IMG_20160218_080608.jpg" width="320" /></a>From 25mm needles to 2.5mm needles. My Blue Skies Sock Club socks are coming along a treat too, helped greatly by being the only current project portable enough to take with me when I went to my parent's house with Riley for a few days. I love how this pattern flows - it's so intuitive that I have barely needed the pattern for sock number 2 (no second sock syndrome here. Oh no!) . Only half a foot to go so I should be able to finish them before the next instalment arrives in the next couple of weeks...<br />
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Although I haven't managed to finish the socks I started in January, the two other projects I shared in my January <a href="http://www.talesfrommountpleasant.com/2016/01/whats-on-my-needles-january.html">'What's on my Needles'</a> post are finished. The Fox Jacket turned out beautifully and is probably the fastest knit adult sized garment I have ever made! It is so soft and luxurious (all that lovely silk, baby alpaca and kid mohair). It's been keeping me warm and cosy on the most chilly winter nights and is so comfy I may have fallen asleep with it on at least twice...<br />
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The #naturesshades project is also finished and I am currently working on a pattern and will post more on this another time (if you really want to see it now though you can nip along to the project page on my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/ForestFlower23/naturesshades-kal">Ravelry</a>) Also don't forget to check out all the finished objects for this KAL over on the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/discuss/brityarn/3350704/1-25">BritYarn Ravelry forum</a>. There you will find an array of patterns all knitted in gorgeous natural, undyed shades of (mostly) British wool. What a wonderful way to celebrate our woolly heritage!<br />
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Id love it if you would share what's on your needles (or hook) for February - please feel free to leave links to your own blog posts or Ravelry project pages so I can have a look! (Only relevant links please - Any spam comments WILL be deleted!)<br />
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<i>Happy crafting x</i></h2>
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<br />Antheahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719630480668686454noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-101492375245106792.post-5089341879615871692016-02-10T11:51:00.000+00:002016-02-10T11:51:05.122+00:00Book Review :: Big Needle Knits<h2>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqe3Q_0CMdfgBgulzq7y8axmVzATnR0JLsdDJeDmFHFfTeEsDHQjdybYZQLEr62uhf3p69TVvH6CkHS2jQMhdRzxpUlMAGTmo0y2d6UVzvB9qYDGXvqjKjuxnZb_UbtDhlaM66SJtC6ck/s1600/IMG_20160123_142830.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqe3Q_0CMdfgBgulzq7y8axmVzATnR0JLsdDJeDmFHFfTeEsDHQjdybYZQLEr62uhf3p69TVvH6CkHS2jQMhdRzxpUlMAGTmo0y2d6UVzvB9qYDGXvqjKjuxnZb_UbtDhlaM66SJtC6ck/s320/IMG_20160123_142830.jpg" width="320" /></a>Big Needle Knits</h2>
By Melanie Porter<br />
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Published by Cico books<br />
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Melanie Porter, best known for her amazing knitted upholstery, is no stranger to knitting with huge needles and in Big Needle Knits she shares 35 fabulous projects - ranging from small (ish) accessories to huge squishy blankets - all using super bulky yarns and needle sizes from 10mm up to custom made 35mm (that's like a broom handle!) <br />
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The book is divided into three sections. Chunky textures includes patterns for smaller accessories - a lovely clutch bag, a little purse, headband, scarves, hats and a fabulous blanket. Lighter Knits features projects using fabric yarns and includes summer tops, rag bracelets and lightweight floaty cowls and scarves. The third section - Mega Knits - focuses on those super chunky yarns and mega sized needles for statement pieces that grow really quickly. I adore the Infinity Cowl knitted in Lion Brand Quickie yarn!<br />
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There is a comprehensive section at the back with all the knitting techniques you will need which makes this book ideal for beginners (although I have to say huge needles are not the easiest to work with if you are a true beginner. Especially if you have small hands!) Melanie even lists a few yarn alternatives and suppliers AND shows you how to make your own fabric yarn and fat wool from roving (it involves wearing wellies in the bathtub! That fact alone makes me want to try it!!).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpSjNO931PVBZ6JsMk-JHm-gqwXRYEJYwizc9atafn4EmlQaUA8bzvLBkkMeOkW-csmjYXUspmV_ZftoF4gpHKQOn2OdMKDwH0Z8WF3CMqjtUDb870QZCD0laMDcMFr2D5Cq9Gv9-2iVk/s1600/IMG_20160124_133154.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpSjNO931PVBZ6JsMk-JHm-gqwXRYEJYwizc9atafn4EmlQaUA8bzvLBkkMeOkW-csmjYXUspmV_ZftoF4gpHKQOn2OdMKDwH0Z8WF3CMqjtUDb870QZCD0laMDcMFr2D5Cq9Gv9-2iVk/s320/IMG_20160124_133154.jpg" width="320" /></a>I decided to have a go at the lovely three colour linen stitch blanket in section one, using some Drops Eskimo wool I had in my stash and 15mm needles.<br />
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Just to demonstrate how quickly these Big Needle Knits work up the picture shows the result of about 4 hours work...<br />
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With a bit of dedication, and a good box set on TV, it would be perfectly feasible to produce a whole blanket in a weekend.<br />
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Now that's the kind of project I like!<br />
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Big Needle Knits is a great introduction to using the jumbo needles and wool that seem to be so popular at the moment and the book will appeal to newbies and more experienced knitters alike. It would be a great addition to any knitters library.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Find out more about Melanie Porter<a href="http://melanieporter.com/"> here</a> </span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Find out more about Cico Books <a href="http://www.rylandpeters.com/">here</a></span></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Big Needle Knits was sent to me by Cico Books for the purpose of this review. All words and pictures are my own :) </i></span><br />
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Antheahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719630480668686454noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-101492375245106792.post-92083261714277807032016-01-20T14:04:00.003+00:002016-01-20T14:04:35.708+00:00What's on my needles - January <h2>
Selfish knitting</h2>
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If November and December are mostly about knitting presents for friends and family then January is all about selfish knitting. That's right, knits that are just for me!<br />
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Not one for hanging about, I cast on my first ' selfish knit' on Boxing Day. I have been gathering the yarn together for this one through the year - kid silk mohair and baby silk alpaca yarns don't come cheap, even when they are by the fabulous Drops Studio who are famous for their excellent priced quality yarns! My other half had forbidden me to start this project until Boxing Day because he knew once I got going on this one I would be lost to the world for a few days at least.<br />
He wasn't wrong.<br />
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<a href="http://www.garnstudio.com/pattern.php?id=6214&cid=19">The Fox Jacket</a> by Garn Studio (home of Drops yarns and literally 1000's of free patterns) is constructed in the round from the bottom up with a beautiful lace stitch yoke. The three yarns - kid silk, baby silk alpaca and silver thread - are held together and knitted as one which was a little tricky to start with but the results are well worth it.<br />
I altered the pattern slightly to make the sleeves 3/4 length as I find longer sleeves just get in the way!<br />
In just 2 weeks I had worked the body and the sleeves, joined the sleeves and started the yoke pattern. I was so looking forward to wearing my jacket I knit every spare moment I had...<br />
Then I ran out of yarn...<br />
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Not all of it you understand. Just the kid silk. For the sake of just 15rows I now need to buy more yarn. So frustrating... (and if course it's a bit silly to pay postage charges on a single ball of yarn so I had to order some more. Obviously. ) <br />
Hopefully I should receive the extra ball soon and finish my jacket at the weekend.<br />
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<i>(If you want to know more geeky stuff like yardage, needle sizes etc pop over to my <a href="http://ravel.me/ForestFlower23/18fj">project page</a> on Ravelry )</i><br />
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As luck would have it I had another selfish knit lined up to fill the knitty hole...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5jjX2wlRQEYwEz-z1KRUXYU5VkTSPT6NkzrYNPVQcC8h1EOgUw5TammqEw-XhBAqwM5OPr1QRZVAaQ1JLswyYwtXW3cEQ4LODVUlIe0Y7rPBOTsChOIgobzQuQwQjJ4zizIVHHIXm1j0/s1600/IMG_20160117_113912.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5jjX2wlRQEYwEz-z1KRUXYU5VkTSPT6NkzrYNPVQcC8h1EOgUw5TammqEw-XhBAqwM5OPr1QRZVAaQ1JLswyYwtXW3cEQ4LODVUlIe0Y7rPBOTsChOIgobzQuQwQjJ4zizIVHHIXm1j0/s320/IMG_20160117_113912.jpg" width="320" /></a>This one is a knitalong organised by Louise at <a href="http://www.knitbritish.net/">Knit British</a> and Isla at <a href="http://www.brityarn.co.uk/">Brit Yarn</a>. Called the Natures Shades along (#naturesshades on Twitter and instagram ) The idea is to knit a wearable item (no mug cosies or cushions) using only natural, undyed British (or local to you if you're not in UK) wool in a minimum of 3 shades.<br />
I chose some fabulous <a href="http://www.brityarn.co.uk/product/West-Yorkshire-Spinners-Jacob-Double-Knitting-DK-wool">Jacobs Wool</a> by the West Yorkshire Spinners. Priced at £5.50 for a 100g skein I thought it was excellent value, and although I didn't have a pattern I did have a great idea for a cowl I wanted to try...<br />
I am still playing with stitch ideas as I write this, and the idea has changed - as ideas tend to when I am designing - but I hope to have something a bit special to share very soon.<br />
The knitalong cast on date was 14th January with finished objects to be shared by 19th March so if you want to join in there is still time. Check out the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/knitbritish">Knit British</a> and <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/brityarn">Brityarn</a> Ravelry group for more details.<br />
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My final cast on this month I am actually really excited about. Ever since finishing my first proper pair of socks back in <a href="http://www.talesfrommountpleasant.com/2015/11/checking-in.html">Socktober</a> I have been promising myself that I would do more. In fact I may have even, rather rashly even by my standards, said I wanted a whole drawer full of hand knitted socks by the end of the year.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIQPQGC0lic7Fgg2C4tFGYANOCyCG7_kplpHhnzsZCrdav8tOuBYps3PQJD49CAjlLWhwXBb8oBtCabVFEeouX6aflZnGwTSgoM8-Q1B-MysY8Rga8zTBuzbwON1z530k1e8oUBnBaj-Y/s1600/20160120_135520.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIQPQGC0lic7Fgg2C4tFGYANOCyCG7_kplpHhnzsZCrdav8tOuBYps3PQJD49CAjlLWhwXBb8oBtCabVFEeouX6aflZnGwTSgoM8-Q1B-MysY8Rga8zTBuzbwON1z530k1e8oUBnBaj-Y/s200/20160120_135520.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
Over Christmas I took the plunge and signed up to <a href="http://www.theknittinggoddess.co.uk/ourshop/cat_918258-Sock-Club.html">The Knitting Goddess sock club</a>. There are 2 options - one for yellow shades with patterns designed by Rachel Coopey and the other, named 'The Blue Skies Club' with designs by Clare Devine. Each club includes a gorgeous and exclusive hand-dyed yarn and sock pattern every 2 months - so 6 throughout the year. Not a drawerful but slightly more realistic challenge!<br />
Being more of a blues kinda gal I went for Blue Skies and received my first instalment at the beginning of January and finally got to cast on earlier this week... The beautiful hand dyed Britsock yarn is so lusciously soft I cannot wait to encase my feet in it!<br />
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So, that's what's on my needles this month. What's on your needles (or hook)? Do let me know because I am incredibly nosey and love to see what everyone else is working on!<br />
<br />Antheahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719630480668686454noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-101492375245106792.post-19501175008074394752016-01-07T14:08:00.002+00:002016-01-07T14:08:38.512+00:002016 Learn something new!Happy New Year lovely readers! I hope you have all had a fabulous festive season full of love, joy, family, friends and chocolate!<br />
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Now we are all ready to spring into 2016 full of energy and intention. Ready to face the world, take on new challenges, embrace the things we love and change the things we don't! Hurrah!! (Yes? No? Ok finish the Christmas chocolates first...)<br />
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I'm not one for New Year's resolutions- if you really want to make changes why wait until the calender changes? That said the Christmas holidays offer a perfect opportunity to take stock, look back and decide what needs to be done next...<br />
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Last year actually turned out alright - I absolutely rediscovered my knitting mojo and my design for Wool and the Gang - <a href="http://www.woolandthegang.com/product/koselig-blanket-women/knit-your-own">The Koselig Blanket</a> - became a best seller. I also self published my first pattern on Ravelry (<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/lost-in-the-forest-mitts">Lost in the Forest Mitts</a>) inspired by the lovely Cornish Tin from Blacker Yarns.<br />
My partner's business also had a better year than it's had for a long time as people actually started buying motorbikes again! I finally managed to lose some weight; we gained a new kitty family member; the house didn't fall down and our camper van made it through it's MOT so all in all not a bad year (about time too as the previous few years have been a bit pants lol!).<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little bit of my stash. Just a little bit. I don't have a problem. Honest.</td></tr>
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Lots of tidying and sorting has been happening through 2015 too - not least of which involved my yarn stash. To be fair it's got a bit out of hand. I'm not saying I have too much yarn (is there such a thing as too much yarn? I think not...) but I do have more than enough to keep me knitting for years to come so this year I have made a promise that I will not buy anymore yarn UNLESS it's for a specified project and will be used straight away. No more stash building for at least a year...<br />
There are also many knitty techniques I want to learn in 2016 - toe-up socks, brioche, double knitting, top down sweaters, continental style knitting whilst purling (why is that so tricky?) so plenty of excuses to cast on lots of lovely projects throughout 2016 and plenty of opportunities to use some of that stash.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqJPSqZoO-3COOzKT90brkmceyQZxjCKXDEkE6TpgK7IjzG1JGZMoypF5OPa-TtQJA2jBUMTYq975KsxZPFLQZnENh80E0An4r70jjQ7Y8kh5y_2QcSiSAtyTvgIB08Bi2d1pEoam9ukg/s1600/20160107_131810-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqJPSqZoO-3COOzKT90brkmceyQZxjCKXDEkE6TpgK7IjzG1JGZMoypF5OPa-TtQJA2jBUMTYq975KsxZPFLQZnENh80E0An4r70jjQ7Y8kh5y_2QcSiSAtyTvgIB08Bi2d1pEoam9ukg/s320/20160107_131810-1.jpg" width="206" /></a>But what I want to master this year, more than anything else, is spinning with my drop spindle.<br />
I want to turn fluff into beautiful yarn and knit with it.<br />
I have tried previously - and blogged about it <a href="http://www.talesfrommountpleasant.com/2015/03/learning-to-spin-with-a-drop-spindle.html">here</a> - but after an initial burst of enthusiasm finding the time and the opportunity to continue has eluded me. <br />
Like many things it's practice that makes perfect so I am going to aim for just a few minutes a day (preferably when the cats are out side - Have you ever tried using a drop spindle with a cat in the room?). It's possible I won't manage everyday but I will do my best to devote just 15 minutes a day to practising. 15 minutes. That's all. I'm sure I can manage that!<span style="color: red;">*</span><br />
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I have often thought that regular practice in small chunks is more effective and easier to maintain than the occasional big chunk of time - especially if you have a busy family life/job to juggle around. So what new skill would you like to learn? Why not try just 15 minutes a day (or as often as you can) and see what you can achieve in 2016? Maybe you want to learn to draw or doodle; write a novel or poetry; play a musical instrument; learn to crochet, knit, needlefelt or some other craft?<br />
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If you'd like to join me on Instagram tag me (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/theforestflower/">@theforestflower</a>) and use the hashtag #15minutesaday so we can share our progress and offer support. I can't wait to see what new skills you master this year!<br />
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<i><span style="color: red;">*if anyone can suggest any books/tutorial videos or blogs that might help me on my spinning journey PLEASE leave a comment below. Any help gratefully received!</span></i><br />
<br />Antheahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719630480668686454noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-101492375245106792.post-73968510930027806352015-11-04T12:02:00.000+00:002015-11-04T12:03:58.748+00:00Checking in...Wow - I cannot believe it's been 6 weeks since I last blogged!<br />
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Things have been pretty busy around here so here's a little update on everything we've been up to in October...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy1j3NjUtMeosESVbD5Nwx_RMU0HnOqLMcNw1wVNkvfBU18HTvGKUACix9hyphenhyphensYX0mF2BeUtjnk6YgViZouX5VjtUsLnRvIbIEBQUQxiOk-NwzRMdLzCMO4as14MEjEBaUIh6exRYwegUs/s1600/annie+sloan+chalk+pain+dresser.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy1j3NjUtMeosESVbD5Nwx_RMU0HnOqLMcNw1wVNkvfBU18HTvGKUACix9hyphenhyphensYX0mF2BeUtjnk6YgViZouX5VjtUsLnRvIbIEBQUQxiOk-NwzRMdLzCMO4as14MEjEBaUIh6exRYwegUs/s200/annie+sloan+chalk+pain+dresser.jpg" width="200" /></a>We have been living in our little new build end terrace for 11 years this summer - it wasn't ever intended to be our forever home but finances being the way they are it's not likely that we will be moving any time soon. Problem is I get itchy feet if I stay in one place for too long. To counter this I have been moving things around in our tiny house, finding new homes for everything and giving the whole living area a new(ish) look. The main thing we have been working on is moving all the bookcases and almost redundant PC desk out of living room and replacing it with a second hand pine dresser I was given. I gave it a coat of Annie Sloan's fab chalk paint and it's come up a treat. I have always wanted a little country cottage style in our modern, and frankly characterless house, and this dresser is definitely a step in the right direction! The grand move around is almost done and the dresser looks great - I can't wait to dress it for Christmas!<br />
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During the summer I started some new work as a test/sample knitter for British knit and crochet designer <a href="http://www.erikaknight.co.uk/about-me/">Erika Knight</a>. I am absolutely loving knitting with her beautiful range of British wools and have just finished working on a collection of simple baby knits in her British Blue Wool which is wonderfully soft yet sturdy and perfect for baby clothes and blankets. Plus it's machine washable (on a cool gentle cycle) which is an absolute MUST for baby items in my opinion!<br />
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Erika's philosophy is definitely one I can get behind - she believes in keeping sheep grazing in our fields and promoting our own distinctive breeds and all her yarns are grown and spun in the UK. I am really proud to be a part of her team and look forward to many fabulous British knits to come! <br />
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In other knitting news a couple of projects were finished this month including my<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/ForestFlower23/isla-cardigan"> Isla Cardigan</a> from Cirilia Rose's fabulous book 'Magpies, Homebodies and Nomads' . Isla is the second item I have completed and won't be the last (I have also made the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/ForestFlower23/breve-cowl">Breve Cowl</a> which has been well worn through summer.) I knitted it up in Stylecraft Luxury Pure Merino that I happened to have in my stash, and it creates a beautiful smooth finish. I was also exceedingly pleased to find a card of 8 vintage buttons in my local charity shop that were just perfect. I love the shape of this cardi - it is so flattering. All that twisted rib was definitely worth it!<br />
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<i>You can read more about this project (and the importance of keeping notes!)in my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/ForestFlower23/isla-cardigan">Ravelry project notes</a> </i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxi1DZGQX0n_3dPHz1JFxIBqcNgI1wseC-Ntj0s1E6_08ssDpJhyP3oMWgO7e0UEVXDFk_1zsqMQsB_PYyMR5hT1POxpoZ_35MIRcCDbWpP2mGRsDjrT0yom0D68nByXYI-xN-vtPbe1Q/s1600/kalajoki+socks+for+socktober.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxi1DZGQX0n_3dPHz1JFxIBqcNgI1wseC-Ntj0s1E6_08ssDpJhyP3oMWgO7e0UEVXDFk_1zsqMQsB_PYyMR5hT1POxpoZ_35MIRcCDbWpP2mGRsDjrT0yom0D68nByXYI-xN-vtPbe1Q/s320/kalajoki+socks+for+socktober.jpg" width="320" /></a>October - a.k.a Socktober - also marked the first pair of socks that I have knitted in proper sock yarn (Drops Fabel in this case). I am immensely proud of myself for starting AND finishing a pair of socks in a relatively short time - I didn't even suffer from 'second sock syndrome'! My finished socks are warm and comfy and fit perfectly. I just love the meandering lines that run down the side of each sock, meant to represent the Kalajoki River in Finland for which the pattern is named, and the asymmetric toe. I hope they will last a little longer than the cheapy Primark socks currently cluttering up my sock drawer (everyone of them with a hole in the toes!) and I think they could be the beginning of Operation Sock Drawer...<br />
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<i>(If you fancy knitting these for yourself, the pattern is<b> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/kalajoki">Kalajoki</a></b> and is available as a free download on Ravelry)</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyUorjAYIaFlEQuHDc8xyKdrGLEeWVtIztBIvYvQhXBUQcRJEi5YSux_e61GZLHGiaYzRLHhHXJ_5jYWg91g-AyezZrCw6xXB4o_TUXWwng0pAeN1U4JpoI2-yK-PlP2kUgbTSth1Kokw/s1600/OfficialBlogger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyUorjAYIaFlEQuHDc8xyKdrGLEeWVtIztBIvYvQhXBUQcRJEi5YSux_e61GZLHGiaYzRLHhHXJ_5jYWg91g-AyezZrCw6xXB4o_TUXWwng0pAeN1U4JpoI2-yK-PlP2kUgbTSth1Kokw/s200/OfficialBlogger.jpg" width="194" /></a><br />
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Finally I was approached back in September about becoming an EasiYo blogger. For those who haven't come across this brand before EasiYo have produced an ingenious yet simple way to make luxurious yoghurt packed with beneficial bacteria at home. I have owned my own EasiYo yoghurt maker for many years and always loved the simplicity of the system and the taste of fresh yoghurt so I am looking forward to bringing you news, updates and recipes from EasiYo in the future.<br />
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So there it is, just a little update! I am hoping that our routines will all settle down a little and I can get back to sharing more makes and bakes with you again soon although now it feels like Christmas is just around the corner, and my list of Christmas knits is growing ever longer, we will be more busy then ever!<br />
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<i>ps: all the pictures featured in this post are from my <b>Instagram</b> feed - this is where I mostly hang out these days so do <b><a href="https://instagram.com/forestflowerdesigns/">pop by and say hello</a></b>! </i><br />
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<br />Antheahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719630480668686454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-101492375245106792.post-86028373604045989042015-09-19T10:02:00.001+01:002015-11-04T12:04:11.242+00:00Happy Birthday Blacker Yarns!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjBRTW7PUXNjb9FNVI-qTihpt-dzaoUCN8U1XEnizjkMoTPYk3_E69XsAP46bLhuercBdf0yOaK8XfyP40fIS-rUlCcxr86MjtNM2U0Wx1FJb_60YsIdpp_wJnxUeL8l8PUFEN7QIhL6Y/s1600/_SMM8658.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjBRTW7PUXNjb9FNVI-qTihpt-dzaoUCN8U1XEnizjkMoTPYk3_E69XsAP46bLhuercBdf0yOaK8XfyP40fIS-rUlCcxr86MjtNM2U0Wx1FJb_60YsIdpp_wJnxUeL8l8PUFEN7QIhL6Y/s320/_SMM8658.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">picture courtesy of Blacker Yarns</td></tr>
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<b><a href="http://www.blackeryarns.co.uk/">Blacker Yarns</a></b> are celebrating their tenth anniversary at their Cornish woollen mill in Launceston this month by releasing a limited edition yarn they have named<a href="http://www.blackeryarns.co.uk/knitting-and-crochet-yarn-ranges/cornish-tin"> <b>Cornish Tin</b></a>, spun from ten different fibres to create one gorgeous, soft and bouncy yarn that is a pleasure to knit with. <br />
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Cornish Tin truly is a celebration of British grown fibres and includes Gotland, Jacob, Shetland, English Merino and Black Welsh Mountain plus mohair and alpaca to create a beautiful bouncy yarn with lustrous sheen and a delicate halo after washing and blocking.<br />
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Cornish Tin comes in two weights - 4ply (100g/347m) and DK (100g/220m) priced at £12.90 a skein. Both weights are available in a natural grey and four bold colours, all named after Cornish tin mines and all of which tone together beautifully.<br />
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Blacker Yarns very kindly sent me a sample of the 4ply in Wheal Rose Red to play with...<br />
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How beautiful is that? The yarn felt very soft and smooshy (is that a word? It should be...) but with a slightly rustic hand spun feel to it. I couldn't wait to get it on my needles!<br />
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After playing around with a few basic stitches - garter, stocking and rib - I decided that the 4ply would be just perfect for a lace pattern I had been playing around with recently...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV7CtPFxvfHl65JEb-CzQR_ee59VXLIliz2-YN8hUlcISS8XeONazfEVI6YA5uriTRV_ArG-yn6C9r7ZxLnmYhbMFAAEVR3VOz8y7OQBjS2_SchKG5IsC8xc-tQWOCdl2xLL798O4kDho/s1600/cornish+tin_blacker+yarns_lost+in+the+forest+lace.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV7CtPFxvfHl65JEb-CzQR_ee59VXLIliz2-YN8hUlcISS8XeONazfEVI6YA5uriTRV_ArG-yn6C9r7ZxLnmYhbMFAAEVR3VOz8y7OQBjS2_SchKG5IsC8xc-tQWOCdl2xLL798O4kDho/s320/cornish+tin_blacker+yarns_lost+in+the+forest+lace.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">picture from my Instagram feed - for some reason my phone camera cannot cope with the rich burgundy red colour and turned it purple...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVRcu-pEN53_l3VudOvhlT8G-PZLYHP-d9B5s4z3Arlh0oFAwLBRNF3DaIuvjcdFZ7_sHKoOludnGKuYxDInNV6bfIOvBdwJb7qL4MOfDdyPNtQIX5fpM7yezJhOxBgrwkC2FtIgMnpaQ/s1600/lost+in+the+forest+lace+pattern_cornish+tin_blacker+yarns.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVRcu-pEN53_l3VudOvhlT8G-PZLYHP-d9B5s4z3Arlh0oFAwLBRNF3DaIuvjcdFZ7_sHKoOludnGKuYxDInNV6bfIOvBdwJb7qL4MOfDdyPNtQIX5fpM7yezJhOxBgrwkC2FtIgMnpaQ/s200/lost+in+the+forest+lace+pattern_cornish+tin_blacker+yarns.JPG" width="200" /></a>The yarn is<b> </b>beautiful to knit with, soft on the hands but grippy on the needles so perfect for lace work. It's not at all splitty either (which comes in handy when you realise you're a stitch out on your lacework pattern and you need to undo a couple of rows!).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiabIjJYvRpNJqv9Ow7CXLW61ftR7kihoxSuCtTE2kHH5KKTw5c-Atz7pY5i06o_uazb2AmHYSvSXhQao6C42o6YyQ4n2yLzuM72dh5CDgALNmzVBk8Z9QbA7Lybx-JN1VClTtMmXS_ols/s1600/cornish+tin+4ply_Blacker+Yarns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiabIjJYvRpNJqv9Ow7CXLW61ftR7kihoxSuCtTE2kHH5KKTw5c-Atz7pY5i06o_uazb2AmHYSvSXhQao6C42o6YyQ4n2yLzuM72dh5CDgALNmzVBk8Z9QbA7Lybx-JN1VClTtMmXS_ols/s200/cornish+tin+4ply_Blacker+Yarns.jpg" width="150" /></a>Once washed and blocked the fabric softens even further but the stitch definition is fantastic. The yarn has a lot of stretch in it so it's ideal for lace projects that require quite aggressive blocking! It still feels pretty robust though - I feel that this yarn will wear well and be perfect for hats, scarves, cowls, shawls and gloves.<br />
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I love Cornish Tin so much I *may* have broken my yarn diet and snaffled myself a trio of skeins...<br />
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Cornish Tin was released yesterday (as this blog post was supposed to be but wasn't. Long story. I won't bore you with the details...) and Blacker Yarns own online shop has virtually sold out of a couple of colours already so if you want some you had better be quick!<br />
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So - you have your precious skeins of Cornish Tin - now what to make with it?<br />
Well Sonja at Blacker Yarns has come up with a couple of <a href="http://www.blackeryarns.co.uk/knitting-and-crochet-yarn-ranges/cornish-tin?pattern_design_type=259"><b>lovely patterns</b></a> - some colour work mittens and two hats - that can be downloaded for free from their website.<br />
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I have also created a special pattern too, based on that lovely lace above!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPQ5j7C6pnahgOXi3xQ4pep2kNDAz9iwIfGxiu_WD_Iuufc6-nBnbsVZluZaMzcdTFkJeve1LKpFj_FqeGaOocPjyIStboWA61MNIfJHmrBa9sTinZpdQLM_f6YHCHFP_DrS-aXOF37lM/s1600/lost+in+the+forest+mitts_03_forestflowerdesigns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPQ5j7C6pnahgOXi3xQ4pep2kNDAz9iwIfGxiu_WD_Iuufc6-nBnbsVZluZaMzcdTFkJeve1LKpFj_FqeGaOocPjyIStboWA61MNIfJHmrBa9sTinZpdQLM_f6YHCHFP_DrS-aXOF37lM/s320/lost+in+the+forest+mitts_03_forestflowerdesigns.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The<i> Lost in the Forest Mitts</i> pattern is inspired by the Forest I call home. Knitted flat from the top down and seamed leaving a gap for the thumb, both mitts are identical with no shaping so all you have to concentrate on is the lace pattern, making them an ideal first lacework project. More experienced knitters will be able to whip up a pair in an evening! Best of all they only use about a third of skein of 4ply Cornish Tin leaving enough yarn for another little project! <br />
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Lost in the Forest Mitts are just perfect for autumnal woodland rambling and foraging for wild blackberries (a favourite September pastime of mine!) <br />
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The pattern is available as a free download from Ravelry until the end of September. Just click on the link below. I hope you enjoy knitting the pattern as much as I enjoyed creating it!<br />
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<i><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/dls/forest-flower-designs-designs/292692?filename=lost_in_the_forest_mitts_pattern.pdf">download now</a></span></b></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Finally I would just like to say</span></div>
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<i><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Happy Birthday Blacker Yarns</span></span></i></h2>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Here's to another ten years, and more, of beautiful British yarns! </span><i><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></b></i></div>
Antheahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719630480668686454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-101492375245106792.post-38420549704495620562015-09-09T19:20:00.001+01:002015-11-04T12:04:22.988+00:00Book Review :: Sharpie Art Workshop<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx3pPe4nrX70FPKgJyXpY-Tm6FsYJrhpN6FWKMKVp5jNxrTMOreY1j6TdwEV79Q7GOd5GC1wLipuR9WnfTuvBnPER8Xs4xRPClSEtPu3rtmbgBh5u_H_GI_W8-uk2WGWeFcnDiFjVsUi0/s1600/Sharpie+Art+Workshop+review.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx3pPe4nrX70FPKgJyXpY-Tm6FsYJrhpN6FWKMKVp5jNxrTMOreY1j6TdwEV79Q7GOd5GC1wLipuR9WnfTuvBnPER8Xs4xRPClSEtPu3rtmbgBh5u_H_GI_W8-uk2WGWeFcnDiFjVsUi0/s320/Sharpie+Art+Workshop+review.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sharpies at the ready...</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<h2>
<i>Sharpie Art Workshop </i></h2>
<i>by Timothy Goodman </i><br />
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£14.99<br />
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published by Rockport<br />
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Did you know that Sharpie markers were first invented in 1964 (as a refinement of the earlier Magic Marker felt tip pen) and were the first permanent marker pens?<br />
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No? Me neither! I also didn't know that some 400 million Sharpies have been sold worldwide (I own 28 of those...)<br />
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Sharpies can be used on a variety of surfaces from paper, card and canvas to glass, ceramics and even metal. This, coupled with the bold colours and lines of Sharpie markers have made them the go-to medium for artists and designers and autograph hunters worldwide. In his book, Sharpie Art Workshop, graphic designer and Sharpie fan
Timothy Goodman explores the world of Sharpie markers and the artists
that use them.<br />
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As the title suggests he also offers inspiration and ideas for your own Sharpie creations from mini canvases to drawing on shoes or creating a skateboard masterpiece!<br />
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This isn't so much a how-to or instruction manual as a creative and inspirational resource book showcasing the fascinating and innovative ways these versatile marker pens have been utilised.<br />
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If you ever wanted to make your mark with Sharpies this book could set you in the right direction!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8NuHWL_g0filo5E9C_keYhmS9SoVOt2TG65pFtw5iLrFxMs1eYTh1SQQeXlaIbuvBw6grBhyphenhyphen9jc4Vlut1RY__ejoxfy_6XntP2po_5Gpj7XU2aP7lFMG6JnljpitFKuI__B7l9pXrESw/s1600/Sharpie+Art+Workshop+plant+pot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8NuHWL_g0filo5E9C_keYhmS9SoVOt2TG65pFtw5iLrFxMs1eYTh1SQQeXlaIbuvBw6grBhyphenhyphen9jc4Vlut1RY__ejoxfy_6XntP2po_5Gpj7XU2aP7lFMG6JnljpitFKuI__B7l9pXrESw/s320/Sharpie+Art+Workshop+plant+pot.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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I thought I'd have a go drawing on a ceramic bowl (picked up from the charity shop for 30p) - I am no artist but I loved how easy the pens are to work with and instant drying means no smudges!<br />
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I can see many more Sharpie decorated plant pots and bowls happening very soon...<br />
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I have one copy of Sharpie Art Workshop to give away - just leave a comment here telling me what you would draw on with your Sharpies. Make sure you include either an email address, Twitter or Instagram ID so I can contact you if you win!<br />
Winner will be picked by at random from all valid entries.<br />
Competition closes 20th September 2015 at 7pm GMT and is open to everyone. Good Luck!<br />
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<i>ps: you might want to check out Timothy Goodman Instagram account<b> <a href="http://instagram.com/timothygoodman">@timothygoodman</a></b> to see more of his fab Sharpie work including his excellent series 'Memories of a Girl I Never Knew'.</i><br />
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<br />Antheahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719630480668686454noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-101492375245106792.post-41325834974702471882015-08-13T15:06:00.000+01:002015-11-04T12:04:37.339+00:00GrannySquareDay2015<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfx8LMOFGpLk0Txah0K9nVk1MeAB7OqDsCpwyFcahkh8vyCjVIC1oTAq4UfU4Na2rAAoFUAmrvmRh1ttWe8n2TGvMFmRM4r3YqgcBvioVRMYXp1ETaNJ16-M8IP7MI93Z2BBFiYLZsV9k/s1600/catherine+wheel+granny+square.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfx8LMOFGpLk0Txah0K9nVk1MeAB7OqDsCpwyFcahkh8vyCjVIC1oTAq4UfU4Na2rAAoFUAmrvmRh1ttWe8n2TGvMFmRM4r3YqgcBvioVRMYXp1ETaNJ16-M8IP7MI93Z2BBFiYLZsV9k/s320/catherine+wheel+granny+square.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">it's hip to be square...</td></tr>
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Here's a little heads up for all you happy hookers out there!<br />
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Saturday August 15th 2015 is Instagram's <b>#grannysquareday15</b> - hosted by Susan <a href="https://instagram.com/suregal27">@suregal27</a> this is a little fun for the wonderful Instagram crochet community.<br />
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The idea is to create a virtual community blanket of colourful crochet loveliness in one day. Then we are all encouraged to create montages of our favourite granny squares (there are lots of free apps out there to do this with screen shots - I use <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.baiwang.stylephotocollage" rel="nofollow">CollagePro</a> for Android which can be found on GooglePlay) which can then be used to create lasting momentos - mugs, bags, keyrings, posters etc - celebrating crochet granny squares in all their multi coloured glory!<br />
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Want to join in?</h2>
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All you have to do to take part is post a full frame photo of a granny square and use the the hasthag #grannysquareday15 - make sure you do this ON THE DAY (Susan has posted a picture illustrating the kind of picture to upload on her Instagram feed. She has also requested that no-one use the hashtag before the day or use it to post pics of works in progress or it will spoil the blanket effect )<br />
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Need some inspiration?</h2>
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Just search the hashtag #grannysquares on Instagram or check out my GrannySquareLove pinterest board for all the granny inspiration you need!<br />
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<a data-pin-board-width="400" data-pin-do="embedBoard" data-pin-scale-height="200" data-pin-scale-width="80" href="https://www.pinterest.com/forestflower23/grannysquarelove/"> Follow Forest Flower Designs's board GrannySquareLove on Pinterest.</a><br />
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I hope you will join me celebrating glorious granny squares on Instagram on August 15th, I can't wait to see the virtual community blanket as it comes together!<!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>
Antheahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719630480668686454noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-101492375245106792.post-32273093588539776142015-07-27T13:17:00.000+01:002015-07-27T13:30:13.655+01:00Rhubarb Crumble Tart Recipe<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ3hqowHUyiFeX1XmVD98bupzIqFCvEhEwNZ5NA3JZ6VG9mZfiV_284Iyxpo3HH8r75ZDQxPrlWPLgO0g4UaRA_xfQLFBxTr7kFPl5toX5oY30ojPnVe4DpjO0hEeHIFCb1XlDgc6Zi4Y/s1600/Rhubarb+Crumble+Tart+_+talesfrommountpleasant.com+button.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ3hqowHUyiFeX1XmVD98bupzIqFCvEhEwNZ5NA3JZ6VG9mZfiV_284Iyxpo3HH8r75ZDQxPrlWPLgO0g4UaRA_xfQLFBxTr7kFPl5toX5oY30ojPnVe4DpjO0hEeHIFCb1XlDgc6Zi4Y/s320/Rhubarb+Crumble+Tart+_+talesfrommountpleasant.com+button.jpg" width="320" /></a>I love rhubarb - the tartness contrasts so wonderfully with all the sweetness that abounds in summer. Since planting my own rhubarb crown three years ago I have been blessed with an abundance of lovely pinky green rhubarb stems all through late spring and early summer. I love it served as a compote with yoghurt, whisked up with cream and yoghurt to make Rhubarb Fool and in my all time favourite pudding - crumble with custard. But as lovely as crumble and custard puddings are sometimes you want something a little more....well... refined. Try this lovely tart with a sweet pastry base (adapted from <b>Jamie Oliver's</b> wonderful <b><a href="http://www.jamieoliver.com/recipes/eggs-recipes/old-fashioned-sweet-shortcrust-pastry/">Old Fashioned Sweet Pastry</a></b> recipe), and a crispy crumble topping. Serve cooled slices with a little cream for a lovely summer dessert.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Rhubarb Crumble Tart</span></i></h2>
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<i>for the pastry</i><br />
250g plain flour<br />
50g icing sugar<br />
125g cold butter, diced<br />
1 large egg<br />
splash of milk<br />
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Combine the flour, sugar and butter in a processor (or by hand in a large bowl) until it resembles breadcrumbs. Add the egg and a splash of milk and mix until a soft dough forms. Tip it onto the counter and flour it lightly, forming the dough into a flat round. Wrap it in clingfilm and leave it to rest in the fridge for half an hour while you prepare the filling and topping.<br />
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<i>for the filling</i><br />
approx 350g trimmed rhubarb, cut into 2.5cm chunks<br />
50-100g sugar (this is down to personal taste - I like it a little tart but if you like your rhubarb sweet you may need more sugar)<br />
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Place the rhubarb and sugar in a heavy bottomed pan on a very low heat - the sugar brings out the liquid in the rhubarb stems and slowly dissolves. Once all the sugar has dissolved allow the rhubarb to simmer for five minutes or so, stirring gently to stop it catching, then remove from the heat and allow to cool.<br />
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<i>for the crumble topping</i><br />
100g plain flour<br />
100g porridge oats<br />
50g demarera sugar<br />
50g butter<br />
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Combine all the ingredients in a processor and whizz for a minute or so - not too long or your crumble will clump together and form a dough!<br />
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<i>putting it all together</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcYxwJu8EjjdPYgoRX3W3qmcpE8IdeAASrw8LVhk2Bd5zSAuDDkVCC25ITY-VHB4j-woiatlsN-9TljYlge7GAzdQz_kR5EdTczfTxJRFx9lA3QvvkftG7tVrcdQzNY0sTla4PH7oalNw/s1600/Rhubarb+Crumble+Tart_putting+it+all+together.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcYxwJu8EjjdPYgoRX3W3qmcpE8IdeAASrw8LVhk2Bd5zSAuDDkVCC25ITY-VHB4j-woiatlsN-9TljYlge7GAzdQz_kR5EdTczfTxJRFx9lA3QvvkftG7tVrcdQzNY0sTla4PH7oalNw/s320/Rhubarb+Crumble+Tart_putting+it+all+together.jpg" width="320" /></a>Roll out the pastry dough on a floured surface to fit your dish (mine is a 24cm ceramic flan dish). Don't roll it too thin - you want a good thick base to hold the tart together when you slice it! Press the dough into the dish but don't trim the edges yet.<br />
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Using a slotted spoon, transfer the rhubarb into the dish. There will be quite a lot of syrup left which you can save - try it stirred into Greek yoghurt *mmmmm bliss*.<br />
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Now sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the top and place the tart in the centre of a pre-heated oven (180C/GAS 4) for approximately 45 mins or until the crumble top is golden and crunchy. Keep an eye on it and if the pastry begins to darken too much reduce the heat a bit!<br />
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Delicious served warm with ice cream, although it slices better if left to cool thoroughly.<br />
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serves 8 - 10<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Grow your own </span></i><br />
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Rhubarb is one of the easiest vegetables to grow yourself and once
settled in it will happily provide you with long pinky green stems from
April to July for up to 20 years! Look out for bare rooted crowns sold
in winter/early spring and plant straight away in well prepared soil (or
just bung 'em in a hole in the garden and hope, which is what I did!
Rhubarb is not a needy plant and requires very little attention) You will
need to be patient and allow the rhubarb a full year of growing before
you begin to harvest but as it will provide you with an abundance of
stalks for years to come it's worth the wait! Don't panic if your first year rhubarb plant appears to disappear in early winter - it will die right back and reappear when the weather warms again in late spring.<br />
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<br />
So, you have a well established rhubarb plant - what do you do with all that lovely rhubarb?<br />
I
have been scouring the Pinterest for delicious rhubarb recipes just for
you (I'm good like that...) Go and check out my<b><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/forestflower23/rhubarb-delight/"> Rhubarb Delight board</a></b> for ideas for cooking with and preserving rhubarb. The <b><a href="http://missingflavor.blogspot.co.uk/2010/06/norwegian-rhubarb-cake.html">Norwegian Rhubarb Cake</a></b> and <b><a href="http://picklebums.com/2014/05/26/lemon-rhubarb-cookies/">Lemon and Rhubarb Cookies </a></b>are on my 'must make' list before this season ends!<br />
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<a data-pin-board-width="400" data-pin-do="embedBoard" data-pin-scale-height="200" data-pin-scale-width="80" href="https://www.pinterest.com/forestflower23/rhubarb-delight/"> Follow Forest Flower Designs's board Rhubarb Delight on Pinterest.</a><!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>
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<br />Antheahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719630480668686454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-101492375245106792.post-3707075441841764672015-07-22T20:00:00.001+01:002015-07-27T13:30:37.906+01:00Summer Holidays - Seaside trips and summer knitsThe summer holidays officially started here on Friday! We celebrated by heading over to my parent's place for a few days and taking a little day trip down to Barry Island (of Gavin and Stacey fame) to paddle in the sea, dig in the sand, explore rock pools and eat fish and chips and ice cream on the promenade...<br />
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The actual beach area is not huge but it has benefited from a face lift in recent years, was clean, tidy and very family friendly without being overly commercialised. We loved the bright coloured beach huts and the clever climbing wall!</div>
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I even got to indulge my own little obsession with beach combing and collected some lovely sea treasures whilst Roo splashed about in the sea...</div>
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As you can see we had a lovely day and were blessed with sunshine but to be honest the summer so far hasn't been amazing. We have had more than our fair share of cool, wet blustery weather although some days the heat has been almost oppressive and the humidity has been high turning my hair to frizz and making my hands sweat whenever I pick up my knitting. Yes, I know joining the #fringehatalong I mentioned in the <a href="http://www.talesfrommountpleasant.com/2015/06/a-month-of-knitalongs.html">last post</a> and attempting to make a lace stitch hat in aran weight Peruvian wool probably wasn't the best decision I have ever made...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1HLPb0DRkrjIrj0t5Jja1apPeuX4Qdc4pzwI0K31yxlwkVGecC6YKJn-JBRUT7CPqw48fAll6Pocah-UXAUH-Tsr8h0OXvQ0LBwRMsxWrL-Ui2tye7NxbSs-rFslfCe_RBAVuXLWDBZ4/s1600/hermaness+%2523fringehatalong.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1HLPb0DRkrjIrj0t5Jja1apPeuX4Qdc4pzwI0K31yxlwkVGecC6YKJn-JBRUT7CPqw48fAll6Pocah-UXAUH-Tsr8h0OXvQ0LBwRMsxWrL-Ui2tye7NxbSs-rFslfCe_RBAVuXLWDBZ4/s640/hermaness+%2523fringehatalong.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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...but the hat is finished and looks lovely. I almost can't wait now for the weather to cool enough for me to wear it!<br />
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So what does one knit when the weather is hot and sticky? I found the perfect pattern and the perfect yarn to knit it with! <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/morning-mist-3">Morning Mist by Annie Rowden</a> is a lovely simple summer tee comprising of a lace back panel from which stitches are picked up to create the front shoulders/neckline and then more stitches picked up to continue knitting in the round. The panel was knitted from the centre using an invisible provisional cast on and a simple 8 row repeat lace stitch pattern whilst the rest of the tee is plain stocking stitch finished off with garter stitch edgings.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrDBuE36SwJpxtEmwrBeHtsqOtImKisryMiYpKHVbOTJ5j6_78rYNlP8-KVHrRtTy3JMZGiwSVN2G8w9o1AgNSRMQS-c-4ziCo6YjHaYJUdaJsFdzuoko5TKLkJjmKiGbMTyF6Yf_wEOc/s1600/blocking+lace+panel+%2523morningmistkal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrDBuE36SwJpxtEmwrBeHtsqOtImKisryMiYpKHVbOTJ5j6_78rYNlP8-KVHrRtTy3JMZGiwSVN2G8w9o1AgNSRMQS-c-4ziCo6YjHaYJUdaJsFdzuoko5TKLkJjmKiGbMTyF6Yf_wEOc/s320/blocking+lace+panel+%2523morningmistkal.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">blocking the lace panel</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">stitches are picked up along the edge of the lace panel for the front</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFZbLrJTbY_oudEF1DS503jlw8EqkCdyFllmgdrrxGv-lBvJ4WSRIdCbX9dt9cGntp-I3pu6FOVGWRzRy3J9uTtIzv34IgrHsIN4uhsSvQ__BV7_tEsyIPxcjSWbmGp9bh8qfIred3X4o/s1600/%2523morningmistkal+progress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFZbLrJTbY_oudEF1DS503jlw8EqkCdyFllmgdrrxGv-lBvJ4WSRIdCbX9dt9cGntp-I3pu6FOVGWRzRy3J9uTtIzv34IgrHsIN4uhsSvQ__BV7_tEsyIPxcjSWbmGp9bh8qfIred3X4o/s320/%2523morningmistkal+progress.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">playing matchy-matchy with my knitting and my mug...</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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I am using<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/garnstudio-drops-belle"> Drops Belle</a> yarn - a cotton/linen/viscose mix that knits up into a lovely lightweight drapey fabric. Just perfect for summer knitting as, unlike wool, it keeps my hands cool. Even better it's on special offer, along with other Drops cotton yarns, from most Drops yarn stockists until the end of July. I am knitting this lovely summer top for less than a tenner!<br />
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Whilst knitting this pattern up I have made two knitterly discoveries...<br />
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(1) I am not a big fan of knitting big expanses of stocking stitch - even when it is in the round and therefore no purling is involved<br />
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BUT (2) knitting big expanses of stocking stitch, in the round (no purling) means I can read and knit AT THE SAME TIME!<br />
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This is a great discovery that has really sped this project along!!<br />
Which is good because I would like to finish it before the summer ends so I can actually wear it this year...<br />
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<i>Morning Mist is subject of another Instagram knitalong, search<a href="https://instagram.com/explore/tags/morningmistkal/"> #morningmistkal</a> for lots of beautiful colourways! ( I am totally blaming the lovely Andrea Mowry (<a href="https://instagram.com/dreareneeknits/">@dreareneeknits</a>) for sharing her gorgeous finished Morning Mist knit and making me do it!!) </i><br />
<br />Antheahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719630480668686454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-101492375245106792.post-25956659766751893392015-06-27T17:59:00.000+01:002015-07-27T13:31:09.927+01:00A month of knitalongs...Instagram has opened up a whole new knitty world to me - knitalongs!<br />
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I signed up to not one but two shawl knitalongs at the end of May - not that I don't have any other projects to be getting on with but you know how it goes...<br />
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First up was <a href="https://instagram.com/explore/tags/greatdividekal2015/">#greatdividekal2015</a> (I'm using the Instagram hashtags here so you can go check them out if you wish) which was hosted by the lovely<b> Jessie @bigheart_smalltown.</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio3kL9S9rxGeJbE2zJdw9oWdnifURgTwkHV5kQ04m_NgT1QDfdatHBWgFmhDDYiRD5fEYc5tMM-RQScI1RUmTKKdtsnrD-cyhLKMYmdqh4gM4sZnH2mbxzAu-u1rKQ7SMP-kOD8e4VC1Y/s1600/Great+Divide+Shawl+yarn+choices.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio3kL9S9rxGeJbE2zJdw9oWdnifURgTwkHV5kQ04m_NgT1QDfdatHBWgFmhDDYiRD5fEYc5tMM-RQScI1RUmTKKdtsnrD-cyhLKMYmdqh4gM4sZnH2mbxzAu-u1rKQ7SMP-kOD8e4VC1Y/s200/Great+Divide+Shawl+yarn+choices.jpg" width="200" /></a>This what a bit of an impromptu project - I was packing to take Roo to stay with my parents for a few days in the half term and looking for something small and simple to take with me when I spotted her post about a shawl knitalong using a pattern called <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/great-divide-shawl">The Great Divide Shawl</a> by <b>Michele Brown</b>. Rooting through my stash I found a couple of vintage cones of yarn I had been given a while ago that I thought would be just perfect.<br />
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The pattern calls for DK yarn and mine was closer to 4ply/fingering weight so I dropped from 5mm to 4mm needles which meant I probably knitted a few more rows than I would have done with DK and the wingspan of my shawl ended up slightly smaller but I am still super pleased with the results! (the tassels were not part of the original pattern - I added them as a finishing touch and love them!)<br />
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The second knitalong was hosted by one of my favourite designers<b> Gudrun Johnston aka The Shetland Trader</b>. The <a href="https://instagram.com/explore/tags/shetlandtradermkal/">#shetlandtraderMKAL</a> was a mystery knitalong with Gudrun releasing clues via Ravelry over a four week period. Again I went through my stash and decided to use some lovely Shetland wool I had by J C Rennie and again not sure of the yardage of my part used skeins I went for the smaller size.<br />
As a shawl knitting novice I loved not knowing where the pattern was going and the simple but beautiful design was perfect for a beginner shawl knitter there were even a number of threads set up on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/the-shetland-trader">The Shetland Trader Ravelry group</a> discussion board so we could all share our shawls and give help, advice and encouragement. Gudrun was very active here and on Instagram cheering us all on (and clarifying pattern points when necessary!) I even managed to keep up with the schedule, completing each clue in time for the next one.<br />
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I loved the construction of the shawl - each section was knitted in a different direction and even picking up the stitches between sections one and two added a great design twist to shawl. <br />
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I have decided to gift this beautiful shawl to my mum who I know will love that yellow ( I just need to find a perfect brooch/shawl pin to go with it!) but I love it so much I am already looking around for more yarn to make another one just for me! <br />
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I have learnt several new techniques in making both of these shawls
including splicing two yarns together for colour changes, using yarn
overs to create loops on the outer edge of the knitting, knitting
through back loops to create lovely twisted stitches that really lift
the pattern, a new method of binding off that is perfect for lacework as
it is stretchy, and finally blocking the finished shawls to open up the
lacework. Plus I have two projects started AND completed in less than a month!<br />
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I think my love affair with knitalongs has only just begun - I love the camaraderie, sharing and encouragement that comes with working the same pattern with a whole group of like minded people from all corners of the globe! I loved seeing all the different interpretations of the same pattern. I loved the challenge of knitting to a deadline as I am notorious for starting projects, getting bored and not finishing them!<br />
In fact I enjoyed it so much I think I will join in another before the end of the month ( I still have a few days!). <a href="https://instagram.com/explore/tags/fringehatalong/">#Fringehatalong</a><span style="color: red;">*</span> here I come!<br />
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<i>Here are links to Instagram and Ravelry accounts where you can find out more about both of these projects:</i><br />
Jessie's Instagram is <a href="https://instagram.com/bigheart_smalltown">@bigheart_smalltown</a><br />
Michele Brown can be found <a href="https://instagram.com/republicofwool">@republicofwool</a> on Instagram and also on<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/designers/michele-brown"> Ravelery</a> <br />
Gudrun Johnston is <a href="https://instagram.com/gudrunjohnston">@gudrunjohnston</a> on Instagram and many of her patterns can be found at <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/gudrun-johnstons-ravelry-store">Gudrun Johnston's Ravelry Store</a><br />
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Don't forget you can check out all the lovely shawls from these two knitalongs by searching the hashtags <a href="https://instagram.com/explore/tags/greatdividekal2015/">#greatdividekal2015</a> and <a href="https://instagram.com/explore/tags/shetlandtradermkal/">#shetlandtradermkal</a><br />
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<span style="color: red;">* </span>another Gudrun pattern! Yay!!<br />
<br />Antheahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719630480668686454noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-101492375245106792.post-82534006409751286052015-04-21T15:40:00.000+01:002015-07-27T13:31:36.593+01:00WIPS Linky is back!! Yay! It's back!! The monthly Works-in-progress post with linky is back!!<br />
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For new readers and those older ones who may have forgotten, the WIPSLinky was a monthly post where I showed you what various crafty projects I was working on and I invited you to show me yours via the little linky widget at the bottom of the post (here are a couple of earlier <a href="http://www.talesfrommountpleasant.com/search/label/%23WIPsLinky">WIPSLinky posts</a> to give you an idea - you may recognise a certain Butterick pattern that was featured on The Great British Sewing Bee this year! Way ahead of my time, me!!)<br />
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So what am I up to right now?<br />
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Well first up is the #<a href="https://instagram.com/explore/tags/cablecardiofdoom/">cablecardiofdoom</a> - a beautiful fitted jacket I am making for my sister, that is absolutely smothered in cables, knitted in the round, top down. It's a Drops pattern (<a href="http://www.garnstudio.com/lang/en/pattern.php?id=6681&lang=en">this one</a>) and is written very differently to the standard knitting patterns I am used to following. Mistakes were made - hence the hashtag - one of which required the undoing of all work so far and starting again (fortunately only a dozen or so rows in) whilst others were fudged and just about got a way with.<br />
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The first challenge was deciphering the terminology and making sure I understood all the instructions. My little notebook became invaluable for keeping track of all the different pattern elements.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgMrCYVou2VPrdzNWoKDRymazDZ3QTZqrAUN9M02Q6s9miDB0I20p66CFsSckkYwKhQdai7WVNv_M7NqeO8GvdkHg5gmEL4JxvjUEI68IWOBuvBMjVlPzJI3HL_uYblIzOMag-_fAdI5s/s1600/wips+linky+april_cable+cardi+of+doom+notebook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgMrCYVou2VPrdzNWoKDRymazDZ3QTZqrAUN9M02Q6s9miDB0I20p66CFsSckkYwKhQdai7WVNv_M7NqeO8GvdkHg5gmEL4JxvjUEI68IWOBuvBMjVlPzJI3HL_uYblIzOMag-_fAdI5s/s1600/wips+linky+april_cable+cardi+of+doom+notebook.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">notebook - absolutely vital piece of knitting kit!</td></tr>
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Second challenge was knitting a whole garment in one piece!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixDmBE_gzAv8y2C8wF98UyRsaN_kvkAEu1T7RPibOX-vXtSGXtk_PVkmHZDT9cHJd1xmCb3jDICook48nNAmbGcR9rcpFbK6_nobbRYiCUTUtNeby4MStFOuoKVAQJPkfwxoR7q2MP1YY/s1600/IMG_20150324_202551.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixDmBE_gzAv8y2C8wF98UyRsaN_kvkAEu1T7RPibOX-vXtSGXtk_PVkmHZDT9cHJd1xmCb3jDICook48nNAmbGcR9rcpFbK6_nobbRYiCUTUtNeby4MStFOuoKVAQJPkfwxoR7q2MP1YY/s1600/IMG_20150324_202551.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">casting off the main body</td></tr>
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I have never done this before (unless you count socks!) and as a knitter who has always balked at any pattern that suggests casting on more than 100 stitches in one go, knitting rows of over 500 stitches was pretty daunting stuff! The sheer weight of the jacket caused a small problem - I developed <b>tendonitis</b> or 'Knitters Elbow' (basically the same as tennis elbow but not quite so energetic!) and had to lay off the knitting completely for a few days to allow it to heal!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEZ5KAcd0ttsog0AB9LGTtpMfkpK2C9r3N9htqHB1lvhG_LCuZ5j1_cm2oWroX3R4A4naRdEWHP1MrRYPe_kJsDQtHRFbHr0C7yQwkwVAY6emglW7uPE9M070uocdCbqZYDH5ziYfQWA0/s1600/wips+linky+April_cable+cardi+of+doom_knitting+garment+in+one+piece.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEZ5KAcd0ttsog0AB9LGTtpMfkpK2C9r3N9htqHB1lvhG_LCuZ5j1_cm2oWroX3R4A4naRdEWHP1MrRYPe_kJsDQtHRFbHr0C7yQwkwVAY6emglW7uPE9M070uocdCbqZYDH5ziYfQWA0/s1600/wips+linky+April_cable+cardi+of+doom_knitting+garment+in+one+piece.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">knitting sleeve using magic loop method</td></tr>
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Third challenge was learning how to knit the 'magic loop' method - that is knitting a tube (in this case the sleeves) with a long circular needle. I have longed to learn this technique which, as it happens, is terribly easy once you know how! Much, much easier and less painful than using dpns...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxvYZhL39sXkSn_WLqycuQmgWayd5-PBTl6z1mWFZWKKJUZcOiQTmMjgYGle0XD1EdnCVIEfVVLp-eoIaxxUpGqDuS8Jy-p9CTbl_3KS8X1xKpGA-deGWT1o0PKOByOHFVncwAHWFFIkk/s1600/wips+linky+april_cable+cardi+of+doom_finished+sleeve.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxvYZhL39sXkSn_WLqycuQmgWayd5-PBTl6z1mWFZWKKJUZcOiQTmMjgYGle0XD1EdnCVIEfVVLp-eoIaxxUpGqDuS8Jy-p9CTbl_3KS8X1xKpGA-deGWT1o0PKOByOHFVncwAHWFFIkk/s1600/wips+linky+april_cable+cardi+of+doom_finished+sleeve.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Yesterday I finished the first sleeve so there is only one sleeve to go, buttons to sew on, underarms to stitch up and a few ends to weave in. Nearly there!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgySsIcFP1xDkYPrpsxt_L2QU9EUaL4A91w5KHZLvkmVs82EJiqXNDGSxeNBAIPY6N3ZGGIs4YNpb7t9RSGijIyQ6GehLD6LVlVJxQjGITcN87lTWxbskDgHyej3fwGjf_dPZmN0I1YLEo/s1600/April+WIPsLinky+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgySsIcFP1xDkYPrpsxt_L2QU9EUaL4A91w5KHZLvkmVs82EJiqXNDGSxeNBAIPY6N3ZGGIs4YNpb7t9RSGijIyQ6GehLD6LVlVJxQjGITcN87lTWxbskDgHyej3fwGjf_dPZmN0I1YLEo/s1600/April+WIPsLinky+collage.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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AS ever I have several WIPS on the go at the moment - what knitter/crocheter doesn't? - including the Rainbow Granny Blanket I am making for Riley, the ongoing <a href="http://www.talesfrommountpleasant.com/2015/02/the-beekeepers-quilt-2015-knitalong.html">Beekeepers Quilt KAL</a> and the lovely Breve Cowl from the Cirilia Rose book 'Magpies, Homebodies and Nomads' - I really hope to get as much of these done as possible before the end of April as my fingers are itching to start something new!!<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">So, what are you currently working on?</span></span></span></h2>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"> I'd love to see!</span></span></span></h2>
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Please share your works in progress either by linking up a blog post using the linky widget below or use the hashtag #WIPslinky on Twitter or Instagram, tagging me too so I see them! (<a href="https://instagram.com/forestflowerdesigns/">@forestflowerdesigns</a> on IG or <a href="https://twitter.com/ForestFlower23">@forestflower23</a> on Twitter)<br />
I will try and feature some of your projects on next months WIPsLinky post so please do share!<br />
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<i>ps If you want to see more of my WIPs then you can follow me on Instagram for lots of ongoing pics (<a href="https://instagram.com/forestflowerdesigns/">@forestflowerdesigns</a>) or Ravelry just to see what's on my needles/hook right now (<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/people/ForestFlower23">@forestflower23</a> ) </i><br />
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<link href="http://www.blenza.com/linkies/styles/default.css" media="all" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css"></link><script src="http://www.blenza.com/linkies/loc_en.js"></script><script src="http://www.blenza.com/linkies/opt_defaults.js"></script><script src="http://www.blenza.com/linkies/misterlinky.js"></script><script src="http://www.blenza.com/linkies/autolink.php?mode=standard&owner=forestflower&postid=21Apr2015a&meme=11423" type="text/javascript"></script>Antheahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719630480668686454noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-101492375245106792.post-9557957385567411982015-04-15T16:56:00.000+01:002015-04-15T16:56:25.601+01:00Crochet a Granny Cushion Workshop for Absolute Beginners!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib5w5YYFVjEd8o7Oa5kjm-nqhJ5qB0JjyVbv9n8PNUT9uqML70JG8qnJDMO18yrHaoV8AvxzsBZaH4JBJ2kiiP-ss9Gjo0Byb8uWBSGJlfJe6oNhaeCDiGU8WwGtXV5Bme1jrTcV8oR1A/s1600/crochet+class+square.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib5w5YYFVjEd8o7Oa5kjm-nqhJ5qB0JjyVbv9n8PNUT9uqML70JG8qnJDMO18yrHaoV8AvxzsBZaH4JBJ2kiiP-ss9Gjo0Byb8uWBSGJlfJe6oNhaeCDiGU8WwGtXV5Bme1jrTcV8oR1A/s1600/crochet+class+square.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
Would you love to learn how to crochet but don't really know where to start? <br />
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Well if you live in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire/Herefordshire border country you may be interested to hear that I have been invited to teach a crochet course at the lovely Sew Sew Studio in Newent!!<br />
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Situated just 15 mins drive from the city of Gloucester, <a href="http://www.newentshambles.com/">The Newent Shambles Retail Village</a> is a quaint courtyard populated by local artisans and independent shop keepers and is a project I have been involved in since it's conception (you can see more about The Shambles here)<br />
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Nic opened<a href="http://www.newentshambles.com/#!sew-sew-studio-and-shop/czgu"> Sew Sew Studio</a> at the end of 2014 and it has gone from strength to strength as her sewing classes for adults and children have proved extremely popular. Now she is offering the chance for yarn lovers to extend their skills too!<br />
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I have put together a three day workshop (running one morning a week over three weeks) aimed at absolute beginners where you can learn all the basic crochet stitches you need to know to get you going.<br />
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Starting with a basic granny square, with colour changes and tips on weaving in the ends, moving on to joining the squares together then creating a beautiful granny stripe back, the course includes everything you need to complete a fabulous cushion - all yarns, pattern and tip sheets, cushion inner and even a crochet hook are provided (along with a cuppa or two and some homemade cakes and cookies!) <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI4PtNcvhzEI4ub3oNcZDb_VTT5wOdW7ORw4mzoiC9_CLtbZCKW_Hge4PgrUI2HE__bbTRsvy8nRH_RtlyToQVFC-n2343gdCjexAhiMcqqGpBPyCmBHSBI5GNwoxB-kege6T8RGJF2yU/s1600/crochet+workshop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI4PtNcvhzEI4ub3oNcZDb_VTT5wOdW7ORw4mzoiC9_CLtbZCKW_Hge4PgrUI2HE__bbTRsvy8nRH_RtlyToQVFC-n2343gdCjexAhiMcqqGpBPyCmBHSBI5GNwoxB-kege6T8RGJF2yU/s1600/crochet+workshop.jpg" height="236" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-weight: normal;">Course Details</span></i></h3>
When: 3 x 3 hour sessions 10am- 1pm on 29th April, 6 May and 13th May 2015<br />
Where: Sew Sew Studio, Unit 19 , Newent Shambles Retail Village, Newent, Glos<br />
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Cost : £90 for the course<br />
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What's included: Everything! Yarn, cushion inner, time spent one-to-one if needed, pattern, tip sheets to take home, and even your very own crochet hook!<br />
<br /> And refreshments too - Tea and coffee will be available plus I will be baking muffins and cookies especially for my students!<br />
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<i><b>Week one</b></i> - we will focus on the granny squares - including how to add in new colours and weave in the ends (please note you won't have time to complete ALL 9 granny squares in this session - unless you take to crochet like a duck to water! - so please be prepared to do a little homework!)<br />
<i><b>Week two</b></i> - we will be joining the squares together and hooking up a little border and then making a start on our granny stripe cushion back!<br />
<i><b>Week three</b></i> - Finishing off the granny stripe back and then joining the front and back together around the cushion inner before patting ourselves on the back for completing a fabulous Granny Cushion!<br />
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Spaces are very limited so if you are interested please don't hesitate to get in touch with either Nic at Sew Sew Studio or myself (you can email me at forestflower@hotmail.com ) <br />
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For more information and to book please visit Sew Sew Studio's website <a href="http://www.sewsewstudio.bigcartel.com/">www.sewsewstudio.bigcartel.com</a><br />
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I am so excited to be given this opportunity and I cannot wait to introduce some new people to this highly addictive and bang on trend skill!<br />
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<br />Antheahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719630480668686454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-101492375245106792.post-86147416058099072542015-03-31T20:45:00.000+01:002015-07-27T13:32:21.284+01:00Upcycled Jeans Patchwork Quilt (part 1)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVp8z13XBNCzBL5TjpekEEfyJ8P6HpxdG7rzxkuUdDPtxPvsBCPdNgWb1HEEfuZSztpqUqHyFF4Eyc4mfTEFZ2xB9kbHRQvNq_-2dg6S-qWDC4ep_nJAhJXhSJVgSi5PcD85KpX3zbGYA/s1600/upcycled+jeans+patchwork+quilt_button.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVp8z13XBNCzBL5TjpekEEfyJ8P6HpxdG7rzxkuUdDPtxPvsBCPdNgWb1HEEfuZSztpqUqHyFF4Eyc4mfTEFZ2xB9kbHRQvNq_-2dg6S-qWDC4ep_nJAhJXhSJVgSi5PcD85KpX3zbGYA/s1600/upcycled+jeans+patchwork+quilt_button.jpg" width="212" /></a><br />
Debenhams are celebrating the launch of a brand new<a href="http://www.debenhams.com/jeans"> jeans page</a> on their website by challenging crafty bloggers to come up with ideas for upcycling their old jeans.<br />
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Well as I have recently lost rather a lot of weight (hurrah, finally starting to shift the mumtum!) I have a pile of old, worn out jeans just ripe for upcycling so this challenge was perfectly timed.<br />
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I even had the perfect project in mind...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwGezbzNrhkwBv0aVwpv9LtcUxvTUyuWwDuZslpwn1JE4eRVXkHcPdfvx_pEBb7J0ozJrpRxMsf21JAx6MT2XI-Yby7E_Rf177zQL25PgbSAnBa9J7ZRHBmIPi2QOW3j9wg9v8tp_nMHQ/s1600/upcycled+jeans+patchwork+quilt_02.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwGezbzNrhkwBv0aVwpv9LtcUxvTUyuWwDuZslpwn1JE4eRVXkHcPdfvx_pEBb7J0ozJrpRxMsf21JAx6MT2XI-Yby7E_Rf177zQL25PgbSAnBa9J7ZRHBmIPi2QOW3j9wg9v8tp_nMHQ/s1600/upcycled+jeans+patchwork+quilt_02.JPG" width="199" /></a></div>
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One pile of old jeans</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_A97W8CIMmnw5D019_m5JKHLZ0Th1Aa6_-5knL54ub1eADvKT5ueGIMEV6hWDG0bOhk6-BtpC9_qKVxROBYPwD4i70k2pSp_9QagAJ30thmxdHNEV3nmg0ANgDvuScVndU3uVgMzYqFc/s1600/upcycled+jeans+patchwork+quilt_04.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_A97W8CIMmnw5D019_m5JKHLZ0Th1Aa6_-5knL54ub1eADvKT5ueGIMEV6hWDG0bOhk6-BtpC9_qKVxROBYPwD4i70k2pSp_9QagAJ30thmxdHNEV3nmg0ANgDvuScVndU3uVgMzYqFc/s1600/upcycled+jeans+patchwork+quilt_04.JPG" width="199" /></a></div>
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equals 56 x 15cm squares</div>
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equals one cute patchwork quilt top!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><i>It really is very easy...</i></span></span></h2>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjovSbK0AK4CpOjvUTpMN-d3vZCQaDiHjMRUNjNfA1gDksw8I_sUGx7_gtlGJ8KEIaQr2iCyxwhwkSdgMvA_XpJZcUWVKnyT9_7oYPBVPZbpqlpxUH37DuehWJUMY0jTEkn9pGTT0IDapA/s1600/upcycled+jeans+patchwork+quilt_05.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjovSbK0AK4CpOjvUTpMN-d3vZCQaDiHjMRUNjNfA1gDksw8I_sUGx7_gtlGJ8KEIaQr2iCyxwhwkSdgMvA_XpJZcUWVKnyT9_7oYPBVPZbpqlpxUH37DuehWJUMY0jTEkn9pGTT0IDapA/s1600/upcycled+jeans+patchwork+quilt_05.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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First deconstruct your jeans by cutting along the inside or outside leg seams and removing the zip, waistband and front pocket section. Open out the legs and, using a square template (mine was a 15cm square plastic template but you could make one any size you like using sturdy cardboard ) mark out and cut out as many squares as you can from your jeans.<br />
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Once you have a pile of squares take a little time to lay them all out on the floor and move them around to make a pleasing arrangement (sorry, I didn't get a photo of this step *bad blogger* ). I got 56 squares out of my three pairs of jeans so my layout is 8 rows of 7 squares. Once you are happy gather the squares up in piles for each row ready to stitch.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha0QitsxJbrhn2gCoDidEUjtCfbIdv2u7cv_hAc8Qk11pIg81khiHETatg_2dQxFEa0FXPDlGUCXBpJ-emZr7AIvUbvsnGD_hd5fLpqJkTntO9TP37x5BoolE9YD0BrJoGO9O4-iayokM/s1600/upcycled+jeans+patchwork+quilt_06.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha0QitsxJbrhn2gCoDidEUjtCfbIdv2u7cv_hAc8Qk11pIg81khiHETatg_2dQxFEa0FXPDlGUCXBpJ-emZr7AIvUbvsnGD_hd5fLpqJkTntO9TP37x5BoolE9YD0BrJoGO9O4-iayokM/s1600/upcycled+jeans+patchwork+quilt_06.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
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Stitch your squares together a row at a time (in my case 7 squares to a row) by placing the first and second square right sides together and stitching along one side. Open out, then place square three face down on square two and stitch along the opposite side to the first seam and so on to create a long strip. Work each pile the same way.<br />
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Now press your seams flat - this makes it easier to join the strips together.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0efNzHe8aKzh9XVLtGw8iceMMJ7Fwob1yfH4t8VjfmromhoBkfmTK3Iy8WGVBedAI69t4GDLwnoX2aRsUBg-K7-ePqHB9zkcPVhe0bQKiRKVqVXS542fZhUEH7Fj7bmlBdyCLk-6hZ7w/s1600/upcycled+jeans+patchwork+quilt_08.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0efNzHe8aKzh9XVLtGw8iceMMJ7Fwob1yfH4t8VjfmromhoBkfmTK3Iy8WGVBedAI69t4GDLwnoX2aRsUBg-K7-ePqHB9zkcPVhe0bQKiRKVqVXS542fZhUEH7Fj7bmlBdyCLk-6hZ7w/s1600/upcycled+jeans+patchwork+quilt_08.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjivOabt5C1Htgd3FBhyE481vhBfRE9vFaOOXw6jVmIIJlf0SuYVmckHzy97TafFRM9P7d07iBRrj5QD_eIbrhTu7Jo1GN9GdshV0jCgrGCcDr5rpktu7PkTYkNIXGxhGJ7SHPrplvvIPw/s1600/upcycled+jeans+patchwork+quilt_09.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjivOabt5C1Htgd3FBhyE481vhBfRE9vFaOOXw6jVmIIJlf0SuYVmckHzy97TafFRM9P7d07iBRrj5QD_eIbrhTu7Jo1GN9GdshV0jCgrGCcDr5rpktu7PkTYkNIXGxhGJ7SHPrplvvIPw/s1600/upcycled+jeans+patchwork+quilt_09.JPG" width="200" /></a>Pin and stitch the first and second strips, right sides together, paying special attention to the seams - make sure they line up and also, as you are sewing them make sure they do not get caught up in the stitches! I do this by pinning each side of the seam down through both layers.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMbN-5JT_gncUHGf227mtcRMCQI9DaGf7HkUaliLQ_yaFxEuPO6TelMVlxlRNXymhDOAHpxSRlnVCJm2X1DKreKXMqG26SNOnsW3796mcZ5x9yMADvcq4krO6OGlk5gcT0jZFc0OF5hwg/s1600/upcycled+jeans+patchwork+quilt_11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMbN-5JT_gncUHGf227mtcRMCQI9DaGf7HkUaliLQ_yaFxEuPO6TelMVlxlRNXymhDOAHpxSRlnVCJm2X1DKreKXMqG26SNOnsW3796mcZ5x9yMADvcq4krO6OGlk5gcT0jZFc0OF5hwg/s1600/upcycled+jeans+patchwork+quilt_11.JPG" width="198" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwnIAN4bEPH86ZwYV8fj5eK_FM-jzLL68YQUd4tZ_tlcLWIaSUAdTqimdZScewavwQEGZ4sx3GYFwTzGHqf_IkpdGPmNVxDZIbFIvhS4lHd21QfCshdL-43HEDbMadSfpg7YTIA0yZ8F0/s1600/upcycled+jeans+patchwork+quilt_10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwnIAN4bEPH86ZwYV8fj5eK_FM-jzLL68YQUd4tZ_tlcLWIaSUAdTqimdZScewavwQEGZ4sx3GYFwTzGHqf_IkpdGPmNVxDZIbFIvhS4lHd21QfCshdL-43HEDbMadSfpg7YTIA0yZ8F0/s1600/upcycled+jeans+patchwork+quilt_10.JPG" width="200" /></a>Continue in this way, adding each strip to the one before, pressing the seams open as you go.<br />
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And there you have it - one gorgeous patchwork quilt top made from my old jeans.<br />
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If you want to have a go, here a few tips that may help you along <br />
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<li> deconstruct your jeans first - it's much easier to cut out the squares</li>
<li> try and incorporate rips, tears, pockets and stitch details into your squares if you can but do remember that you will have to stitch through all the layers!</li>
<li>if your jeans are very worn, or very stretchy, take extra care when drawing around the template as it's very easy to drag the fabric out of shape</li>
<li>use your machine foot as a guide for getting an even seam allowance - if all the seams are the same width then they should all line up when you join the strips together </li>
<li>Press all the seams as you go, turning the quilt top over and pressing
on the right side too, to ensure everything is lining up right and
sitting flat.</li>
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I will be adding some batting, backing fabric and binding at a later date (ie: when the small boy is back at school after Easter) so I will add part 2 of my Upcycled Jeans Patchwork Quilt make then. <br />
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Have you ever tried to upcycle your jeans?<br />
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What crafty things have you done with your old denim?<br />
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I'd love to hear about your upcycled jeans projects!<br />
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<br />Antheahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719630480668686454noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-101492375245106792.post-90468616124034584102015-03-11T14:31:00.001+00:002015-03-11T14:35:09.937+00:00All in a spin...Last weekend we went on our annual outing to the Creative Crafts Show (herein referred to as CCS) at Malvern Three Counties Showground (you can read about previous years excursions<a href="http://www.talesfrommountpleasant.com/2013/03/the-creative-crafts-show-2013.html"> here</a>)<br />
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This year was a little different because (a) I had very little money to spend and (b) I had Roo with me.<br />
I won't lie, I didn't enjoy the experience nearly as much having to keep a constant eye on a curious six year old rather than immersing myself in glorious crafty stuff - although the sheer joy on his face when he showed me the stamps and ink pads he had bought with his Christmas money kind of made up for that! - but I still managed to come away with a new nugget of knowledge, some beautiful yarn and lots of inspiration.<br />
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A couple of years back I was lucky enough to get a trip to <a href="http://www.wonderwoolwales.co.uk/">WonderWool Wales</a> at Builth Wells (an absolute MUST if you love the fluff!!). Whilst there I bought a drop spindle and some roving with the intention of learning how to spin my own yarn...<br />
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Unfortunately I didn't pay enough attention to the whole process and, not having much luck with YouTube tutorials either I just put it away and<strike> forgot</strike> ignored it.<br />
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Fast forward to our CCS trip...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkhen8qjSxVEE0xNvbn4v5_xM8TWXn8KQdm4yvCWcSZBchDkvx55PjZ5OFYJumKMPJZ86IHhQY1F-ijiiUWvaL0k5GuPS9JVwW4wkAG9Nhxxin9gHDz967QlR4uhohWa5fbL-EAhhgixI/s1600/Cotswold+Alpacas+stall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkhen8qjSxVEE0xNvbn4v5_xM8TWXn8KQdm4yvCWcSZBchDkvx55PjZ5OFYJumKMPJZ86IHhQY1F-ijiiUWvaL0k5GuPS9JVwW4wkAG9Nhxxin9gHDz967QlR4uhohWa5fbL-EAhhgixI/s1600/Cotswold+Alpacas+stall.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a>Whilst wandering around I noticed this lovely stall.<br />
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This is the <a href="http://www.cotswoldalpacas.co.uk/index.html">Cotswold Alpacas</a> stand - packed with gorgeous hand knitted cuteness, knitting kits, hand spun and dyed hanks of yarn and... a lovely lady called Bridget demonstrating how to use a drop spindle!<br />
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This time I paid attention. I even asked questions! She showed me how to start off with the 'lead' yarn, feeding the roving through her fingers whilst allowing the drop spindle to, well, spin, creating a beautiful fine, even thread while she spoke. I was so enthralled I totally forgot to take any photographs! Oh how I wanted to do that thing!!<br />
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As a thank you for her time and explanation, I bought a lovely hank of hand dyed Alpaca yarn and a mini skein in a lovely pale blue that reminds me of winter skies. But I couldn't wait to get home and practise what she had told me...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaH19RUAyHDe8I-vlqWxeN6lupL9SWipEWHDUbKp6WwlS9LgtRUo0jGmIRuKYVC71ffVz24cq7OLUUOgp08dfcJTAXw4YiLCBG4WNgzQn_3TdLUeVV61vEhEqig2DzpfoJs5K6mDaPk5Q/s1600/Beekeepers+quilt+hexipuffs_cotswold+alpaca.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaH19RUAyHDe8I-vlqWxeN6lupL9SWipEWHDUbKp6WwlS9LgtRUo0jGmIRuKYVC71ffVz24cq7OLUUOgp08dfcJTAXw4YiLCBG4WNgzQn_3TdLUeVV61vEhEqig2DzpfoJs5K6mDaPk5Q/s1600/Beekeepers+quilt+hexipuffs_cotswold+alpaca.jpg" height="200" width="199" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIiDRrHCqVYo3yVhLlZ2lNvg9OaEwzc8QeLZzqugy-QXOmmUEs5cLRgj9z9WVuQb_9YKtVCcDhiQTEHuQW_dHKcFjsKsjoTvEQgxf-IRg-Ri3xlkSTH-D22GD6dvqb5iOF5lKOnxA1k44/s1600/creative+crafts+show+haul.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIiDRrHCqVYo3yVhLlZ2lNvg9OaEwzc8QeLZzqugy-QXOmmUEs5cLRgj9z9WVuQb_9YKtVCcDhiQTEHuQW_dHKcFjsKsjoTvEQgxf-IRg-Ri3xlkSTH-D22GD6dvqb5iOF5lKOnxA1k44/s1600/creative+crafts+show+haul.jpg" height="200" width="199" /> </a><br />
<i>My CSS haul on the right - I went for quality over quantity. The little Japanese Lucky Cat was a must have. Obviously.</i><br />
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<i>The 10g pale blue alpaca mini skein knitted up into two hexipuffs for the <a href="http://www.talesfrommountpleasant.com/2015/02/the-beekeepers-quilt-2015-knitalong.html">Bee Keepers Quilt</a>.</i><br />
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Wanna see my first attempt at drop spindle spinning?<br />
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I used some lovely alpaca tops - that's fleece that has been washed and carded and is ready to spin. It was beautifully soft.<br />
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It came out a bit thick and thin but in all not bad for my first proper attempt.<br />
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And it knitted up pretty well too! (I have little idea for something I can do with that swatch which I will share another day...)<br />
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Of course once I had started I had to go on. I found this bag of fibre marked £1 in my stash - I must have had something in mind when I bought it (although I wouldn't be at all surprised if my thought process went 'oooo pretty colours, oooo sparkly, oooo only £1!!') but at that price it was good for practising with.<br />
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The second spin went slightly better and was definitely more even. I do need to work on producing a thinner yarn though - a loose spun super chunky yarn is is lovely but not for <i>everything</i>!<br />
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I have been told that it's one of those things that requires practise and that it will get easier the more I do so I will keep practising and who knows, by this time next year I could be spinning up my skeins of my own beautiful alpaca yarn. One thing is for sure, it is very addictive and an immensely satisfying way to spend a Sunday afternoon...<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Have you ever tried spinning with a drop spindle? How did you find it?</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;">If you have any hints or tips I would love to hear them!</span></i>Antheahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719630480668686454noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-101492375245106792.post-88994189892749853872015-02-27T17:23:00.000+00:002015-03-04T10:40:28.294+00:00Crochet Pattern Testing...<div>
I like to do a little pattern testing for others now and again and this month I have been helping out the lovely Marta <a href="http://www.mrsdaftspaniel.blogspot.co.uk/">(mrsdaftspaniel@blogspot.co.uk)</a> with her fab new pattern for a Child's Crochet Cowl.</div>
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Hooked up in bright coloured stripes, this cosy cowl is made with a really simple but very effective zigzag/ripple stitch that pulls the fabric together in a concertina effect to make it extra snugly!</div>
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The pattern was wonderfully easy to follow and Roo loves his finished cowl.</div>
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Marta tells me she is hoping to submit it to a crochet magazine. I can't wait to see it in print!! You can check out more of Marta's work on her beautiful Instagram feed too - she's <a href="https://instagram.com/mrsdaftspaniel/?modal=true">@MrsDaftSpaniel </a></div>
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Another pattern I have been testing is this lovely little daffodil for my sister-in-law Michelle over at <a href="http://lostonthecloud.blogspot.co.uk/">Lost on the Cloud</a>.</div>
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I love daffodils (especially the miniature varieties) and these little crochet beauties are perfect for adding some spring colour to your room.</div>
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I really enjoyed making these two - in fact I may have to make more. And maybe some little blue forget-me-nots, purple pansies and white daisies too...<br />
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If you would like to have a go at hooking up some pretty little daffodils to herald in the Spring you can find the pattern<a href="http://lostonthecloud.blogspot.co.uk/2015/02/crochet-pattern-daffodil.html"> here</a>.</div>
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I've not just been testing patterns for other people this month, I have also been coming up with a few of my own. Here's a little teaser for a new granny square pattern I have been working on.<br />
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I hope to share the basic granny square pattern here in a few weeks but I am also working on a full pdf cushion pattern which will be available via <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/people/ForestFlower23">Ravelry</a> and my <a href="https://folksy.com/shops/ForestFlower">Folksy shop</a> soon too! </div>
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<i><span style="color: #cc0000;">Don't forget to subscribe to my blog (there's a box for that in the column to the right) or follow me on <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/tales-from-mount-pleasant-3789486">Bloglovin</a> so you don't miss the free granny square pattern when it is published.</span></i></div>
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Antheahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719630480668686454noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-101492375245106792.post-4865114702422091632015-02-04T18:53:00.001+00:002015-02-04T18:53:21.072+00:00The Beekeepers Quilt 2015 Knitalong<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCChwkrHjlwunOHNWr25ZS7z4c5yAsCd_YEpoCJVNpCg8K9M-evIdTVNvVwkBR3Zq0owtz_6m9KCRVbXNdKIADlHxCp4PQmbNgk8CPU4m1ClrWr7r4Jb6dyXC-wHI8e5mpE2VuotcmhHI/s1600/beekeepers+quilt+kal+2015_02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCChwkrHjlwunOHNWr25ZS7z4c5yAsCd_YEpoCJVNpCg8K9M-evIdTVNvVwkBR3Zq0owtz_6m9KCRVbXNdKIADlHxCp4PQmbNgk8CPU4m1ClrWr7r4Jb6dyXC-wHI8e5mpE2VuotcmhHI/s1600/beekeepers+quilt+kal+2015_02.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
Once upon a time (quite a while ago) I stumbled across the most wonderful knitted blanket pattern I had ever seen.<br />
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The Beekeepers Quilt by Stephanie Dosen of <a href="https://tinyowlknits.wordpress.com/patterns/">Tiny Owl Knits </a>captured my imagination and appealed instantly to my hatred of waste. Here was the perfect project for using up all my little bits and bobs of yarn, left overs from other projects and those single balls of gorgeousness floating around in my stash (you know, the ones that call to you when you go into a yarn shop and you absolutely cannot leave without buying just the one. 'I have no idea what I will make with it but I'm sure I'll find something perfect' you say as you purchase...* )<br />
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So I bought the pattern, read it eagerly, made half a dozen or so fabulous hexipuffs then promptly put it away and kind of forgot about it for a year or two. Well I was busy, you know?<br />
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A couple of months ago, whilst having a sort through my stash I rediscovered the long put aside Beekeepers Quilt and decided that 2015 was the year it was finally going to happen.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hexipuff WIP basket. I may need a bigger one. Very soon.</td></tr>
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But rather than throw myself headfirst into it I thought I would break it down into manageable chunks. According to the pattern a quilt measuring three foot by four foot will need approx 380 hexipuffs. 380!! If I made one a day for a year - ie 365 - that would make a reasonable sized quilt and really one a day doesn't sound too difficult. Hell, I could even push the boat out and do two on some days and give myself a day off!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a week's worth of hexipuffs</td></tr>
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One of the things about a big project like this is that it is very easy to lose momentum, especially if you are working on your own with no real outside encouragement (there's only so many times my non-knitting Other Half will look interested when I triumphantly hold up yet another hexipuff for inspection after all). So why not tell the world about it, set the goal and make it public. Having random people ask how your project is going makes it a little more difficult to just ignore it.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">early morning hexipuffin'</td></tr>
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So, right at the end of last year I posted my plan on Instagram and, using the hashtag #beekeepersquilt2015kal, I invited others to join me if they wished. <br />
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The response was way more than I anticipated! As I write there are 14 other Instagrammers using the hashtag to post updates on their own hexipuff (or hexiflat) progress! <br />
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I am so happy that others have joined me in this - it's great to see all your pictures and we can all get excited at each others progress which means my Other Half doesn't have to...<br />
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I fully intend to see this knitalong through to the end of the year and hopefully have a fabulous squishy quilt to show off at the end of it!<br />
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It's not too late to join in if you want to - you can buy the pattern <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-beekeepers-quilt">here</a> - and really if you can't do one a day it's no biggie, honestly.<br />
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A year seems like such a long time at the beginning of January but already we are into the second month. I am 28 hexipuffs down (yes I know, I've fallen behind already) only 337 to go...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">January's hexipuffs all laid out</td></tr>
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* you can read about a good example of this crazy impulse yarn buying <a href="http://www.talesfrommountpleasant.com/2012/02/calling-all-yarn-peeps.html">here</a>. It took me nearly 3 years to find something to do with this particular purchase. Although I suspect not finding the 'right' pattern had a lot to do with being absolutely terrified of mucking up and ruining this beautiful yarn... As it happened I didn't muck it up and the resulting mitts I made with it are my favourites! <br />
<br />Antheahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719630480668686454noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-101492375245106792.post-45958916870809779942014-12-10T13:37:00.000+00:002014-12-10T15:31:24.150+00:00Knits for Men #DebsKnittingChallengeKnitting for the men in your life is renowned for being a bit tricky.<br />
Take my Other Half for example...<br />
He mostly lives in combats, tshirts and hoodies. In black (or, to paraphrase Lego Batman, ' very, very dark grey'). He would not be seen dead in a fair isle sweater. Or any kind of sweater to be honest!<br />
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In the past I have made him a beanie (in black, obviously), a pair of fingerless 'biker' mitts (also in black, although they did have a white skull and crossbones intarsia pattern...) and regular plain black fingerless gloves for work...<br />
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so far so boring...<br />
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When Debenhams challenged me to produce a Christmas knit for the man in my life, I was glad they didn't insist on a novelty Christmas jumper (although you will find plenty of lovely ones in their <a href="http://www.debenhams.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Navigate?ps=default&storeId=10701&lid=//productsuniverse/en_GB/product_online%3DY/insearch%3D1/$s%3DMens_knitwear%3bt%3Dpicked_lists_profile&catalogId=10001&langId=-1#intcmp=knit-seo-mens-xmas">men's knitwear range</a> as well as some more classic designs by British Sewing Bee judge<a href="http://www.debenhams.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Navigate?ps=default&storeId=10701&lid=//productsuniverse/en_GB/product_online%3DY/insearch%3D1/$s%3DMens_knitwear%3bt%3Dpicked_lists_profile&catalogId=10001&langId=-1#intcmp=knit-seo-mens-xmas"> Patrick Grant</a>)<br />
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I decided to use this opportunity to try something I haven't done before and flicking through my trusty <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Craft-Library-Knits-Designs-Knitted/dp/0600617017/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1418218118&sr=8-2&keywords=fab+feet+cosy+toes">'Fab Feet and Cosy Toes'</a> book by Anna Tillman I found the perfect pattern for felted slipper boots.<br />
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Knitted in Rowan BIG Wool on 10mm dpns then felted in the washing machine to create a firm, thick fabric to keep the chills at bay, I thought they would be the perfect cosy Christmas gift!<br />
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Super chunky wool calls for super chunky needles! Yes, I know. Black and grey (called <b>GLUM</b> which must be the best name for grey EVER!)<br />
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I know a lot of people are scared of working in the round with dpns (double pointed needles) but I LOVE it!<br />
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I've turned a few heels in my time but never one quite as big as this one!<br />
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Grafting the toe with kitchener stitch.<br />
I have done this so many times but I <b>STILL</b> need to follow instructions when I do it!<br />
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One finished boot! They really did come out <b>HUGE</b> and I must admit I had my fingers crossed that the alchemy of felting would not let me down once I popped these big boys in the washing machine..<br />
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...but I needn't have worried - they turned out perfect! <br />
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Machine washed at 40 degrees they shrunk down perfectly and made a really thick fabric. The top part of the slipper is turned back to form a cuff. I love the way the texture provides a contrast as well as the colour change.<br />
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I will be wrapping these up with a cosy fleece dressing gown ready to give to Owen on Christmas Day.<br />
I hope he likes them...<br />
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If you would like to see more <b>#DebsKnittingChallenge</b> entries search the hash tag on Twitter and Instagram!<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>This post was sponsored by Debenhams who supplied the wool for me to knit Owens fab Felted Slipper Boots. Thank you Debenhams for inviting me to take part in the #DebsKnittingChallenge</i></span></span></div>
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Antheahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719630480668686454noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-101492375245106792.post-81310715464798004262014-11-13T13:21:00.000+00:002014-12-10T14:05:02.503+00:00Book Review - 'Giftwrapped' by Jane Means<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">Giftwrapped by Jane Means</span></span></b></i><br />
November 2014 Hardback £20<br />
published by<a href="http://www.jacquismallpub.com/" rel="nofollow"> Jaqui Small </a><br />
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The Christmas season is nearly upon us and the trend for beautifully wrapped gifts using unexpected embellishments and recycled materials has never been stronger.<br />
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<span class="WACImageContainer BlobObject SCX62657629" contenteditable="false"></span><br />
<span class="WACImageContainer BlobObject SCX62657629" contenteditable="false">In this fabulous book, Gift Wrap Guru Jane Means - gift wrapper to the rich and famous - celebrates her signature style and shares her secrets of a perfectly wrapped gift! </span><br />
<span class="WACImageContainer BlobObject SCX62657629" contenteditable="false"></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span class="WACImageContainer BlobObject SCX62657629" contenteditable="false"><br /></span>
<span class="WACImageContainer BlobObject SCX62657629" contenteditable="false">Whether you are wrapping a simple box, a tube or an awkward shaped package, Jane shows you how to turn your gift into a work of art </span><span class="WACImageContainer BlobObject SCX62657629" contenteditable="false"><span class="WACImageContainer BlobObject SCX62657629" contenteditable="false">with a few
simple techniques and a little imagination. Jane uses all sorts of
papers, fabrics. ribbons and even upcycled vintage treasures to adorn
and embellish and shares all her tricks and tips - including the art of tying a proper bow! (what a life saver!!)</span></span><br />
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<br />
<span class="WACImageContainer BlobObject SCX62657629" contenteditable="false"><span class="WACImageContainer BlobObject SCX62657629" contenteditable="false">Beautiful photographs illustrate each example - seriously, this is a book to drool over as much as a practical guide! </span></span><span class="WACImageContainer BlobObject SCX62657629" contenteditable="false"><span class="WACImageContainer BlobObject SCX62657629" contenteditable="false">Detailed glossaries of papers and materials and colourful moodboards will help you pick your style and the step by step instructions which will have you wrapping, tying and embellishing like a pro in no time at all. I particularly love the Japanese Pleating technique - so simple, so elegant!</span></span><br />
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<span class="WACImageContainer BlobObject SCX62657629" contenteditable="false"><span class="WACImageContainer BlobObject SCX62657629" contenteditable="false">I can't wait to get started on my Christmas pressie wrapping now using everything I have learnt from this gorgeous book! </span></span><br />
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<span class="WACImageContainer BlobObject SCX62657629" contenteditable="false"><img alt="Shape" class="WACImage SCX62657629" src="https://word-edit.officeapps.live.com/we/ResReader.ashx?v=00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000014&n=E2o1104.img&rndm=c8c5a3b4-8e93-468a-bae1-290b7da1b71b&Fi=SDE12BA6D38969CDEC%21133&C=5_810_BL2-SKY-WAC-WSHI&ak=m%3Den%2Dgb&usid=50163600-5f02-4506-9a45-9a6750feb74e&build=16.0.3327.1017&waccluster=DB3B" style="height: auto; width: auto;" /></span><br />
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To order <i><b>Giftwrapped</b></i> at the discounted price of £16.00 including p&p* (RRP: £20.00), telephone 01903 828503 or email mailorders@lbsltd.co.uk and quote the offer code <span style="color: blue;"><b>APG252.</b></span><br />
*UK ONLY - Please add £2.50 if ordering from overseas.<br />
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A limited number of signed copies are also available from <a href="http://www.janemeans.com/giftwrapped-book-p-12345.html">janemeans.com</a><br />
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<br />Antheahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719630480668686454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-101492375245106792.post-80720511348394438952014-11-05T15:52:00.002+00:002014-11-05T16:15:27.463+00:00October Round Up<div style="text-align: center;">
What a lovely month October was! So full of wonderful colour, yummy food and lots of woolly makes.</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">I love Autumn!</span></i></div>
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I started work on the rainbow blanket I promised Riley back in the summer. We spent some time looking at Google images for inspiration and he decided that the giant granny square was what he really wanted! Makes a change from the <a href="http://www.talesfrommountpleasant.com/2014/07/crochet-baby-blankets-ripple-day.html">ripple blankets</a> I have been making although I may have to do a Rainbow Ripple at some point... Working with these beautiful brights certainly cheers up dull autumn days!</div>
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I also finally committed that gorgeous skein of Louisa Harding Grace merino and silk mix yarn to needles and made these gorgeous Autumnal Mitts from a free pattern I found on Ravelry (you can see it<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/autumnal-mitts"> here</a>) I had to alter the pattern a little, making the mitts shorter to take into account my limited yardage. I was so pleased to finish them in a couple of days with a little bit of yarn left over which I hooked up into a boho-inspired wrap around bracelet.</div>
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Another project I have been working on are these felted wool slippers knitted up to my own pattern. The first pair I made came out too big (maybe a UK size 7-8) These are just a touch too big so I may try again with a couple less rows. Once I have this pattern nailed down I hope to share via <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/people/ForestFlower23">my Ravelry</a> so do pop over and say hi if you have a Ravelry account! </div>
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October has been a very lucky month for me. </div>
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I won this fabulous skein of yarn from <a href="https://www.jarbon.com/">John Arbon Textiles</a> and a cute 'Lucky Aces' brooch in a giveaway by <a href="http://instagram.com/penelopemakes?modal=true">@penelopemakes</a> on Instagram. </div>
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I also won a £15 Etsy voucher from the lovely <a href="http://fizzijaynemakes.blogspot.co.uk/">Fizzi-Jayne Makes </a>blog which I spent it on these adorable Matroyshka Doll jewellery pieces by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/Jackdaw?ref=l2-about-shopname">Jackdaw</a>. I do love all things matroyshka - this may be the beginnings of a whole collection...</div>
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More knitted loveliness in the form of this cute pumpkin I made from a <a href="http://debbieblissonline.com/">Debbie Bliss</a> pattern from the lovely book <a href="http://debbieblissonline.com/books/the-knitters-year/">'The Knitters Year'</a>. The original pattern is intended as a pin cushion but I went up a couple of needle sizes and used some aran weight cotton yarn to make this cute decoration. </div>
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Love the leaf and stalk detail!</div>
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And talking of pumpkins... here is the jack o'lantern we carved from one of the pumpkins we grew from seed this summer! As you can see we ended up with three fair sized pumpkins - I am looking forward to lots of spiced pumpkin soup, muffins and pie over the next few weeks :-)</div>
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More lovely Autumn food - a tin full of cobnuts (aka filberts) one of Owen's customers bought into the shop for us. They really are lovely - like large hazelnuts. I am quite happy eating them straight from the shell but i think I may have to roast some with spices for Christmas nibbles...</div>
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Did someone say Christmas...?</div>
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Last week I made our Christmas cake! The fruit was left soaking in sherry for a week before mixing it all in and baking in a low oven for nearly 4 hours!</div>
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It smelled amazing whilst it was baking and came out lovely! Now it's all wrapped up in a tin ready for it's marzipan and icing coat a bit closer to the time...</div>
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We spent some of the half term at my mum and dad's place in Wales. We were really lucky with the weather and went for some lovely walks along the Abergaveny-Brecon Canal. That lovely yellow and green house boat was up for sale. I admit I was a little bit tempted and have found myself day dreaming about canal boat living on more than one occasion since! </div>
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Whilst at my mum's I spotted this cute little critter - Little Oakley - in the latest issue of <a href="http://www.simplycrochetmag.co.uk/">Simply Crochet</a> magazine. I couldn't resist him and rooted through my mum's yarn stash so I could make him while we were there (I really hate sitting and doing nothing with my hands these days - feels like time wasted!) Riley adores him and has even started writing stories about him. Maybe a children's book series of the future...?</div>
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And finally - I just want to share a few pictures of our family project - the restoration of our old Mark 1 Ford Transit camper van - that has been on going all summer. After weeks of sanding, filling, grinding, more filling and even more sanding we finally got a coat of paint on the body. It's nowhere near complete but at least she has some protection now against the winter weather and hopefully we've stopped the rust getting any worse!</div>
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We still have some work to do underneath and the interior needs stripping out and redoing but we are getting there. Hopefully next summer we'll be able to head off to the beach for long weekends of camper van adventures! </div>
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So that has been our October! What was your October like? </div>
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Now we are in November and there is a definite chill in the air. We are looking forward to cosy evenings under blankets with hot chocolate and the Christmas present making frenzy beginning in earnest!</div>
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I'll share our November with you at the end of the month.</div>
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<i>Most of these pictures come from my Instagram account. It's my virtual hang out of choice these days so do pop over and say hi. You'll find me at <a href="http://instagram.com/forestflowerdesigns">ForestFlowerDesigns</a>. </i></div>
Antheahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719630480668686454noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-101492375245106792.post-40679874324988666582014-10-22T18:03:00.001+01:002014-11-05T16:14:32.369+00:00How To... Make a Hanging Halloween Decoration<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV7TFk3BsvX5hwviXdrNN3iNRolW2GD0zPCnoVSSXsLu9BLiWggp_458DOpu2n0sW_Lu2cn59yQbgg0_JM8Quvw6qmUUzqbMQBJpjVkcw6IAHlhISM3MI531jZE72dCeQ0suI5QxxVSRU/s1600/01+halloween+hanging+decoration+button.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV7TFk3BsvX5hwviXdrNN3iNRolW2GD0zPCnoVSSXsLu9BLiWggp_458DOpu2n0sW_Lu2cn59yQbgg0_JM8Quvw6qmUUzqbMQBJpjVkcw6IAHlhISM3MI531jZE72dCeQ0suI5QxxVSRU/s1600/01+halloween+hanging+decoration+button.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">You will need</span></i></span></h2>
A fallen branch collected from a woodland walk - trim off any unwanted bits and let it dry out before using<br />
a couple of metres of ribbon<br />
orange and black felt<br />
card and paper for templates<br />
basic sewing kit (needle, thread, pins)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzVdWMqc-pISBBUhqatzlHch9iST3Pwc91HYyWdFxBMFRl0prCMEyAyDEPtA_VmB_oyTNiy7ejfeld4-CmEyAmkK0W8AS5yIm77ApdWg2-nS4FC9MmYZrzy8i4mwB6UEu6-9XVvU4_utc/s1600/halloween+hanging+decoration+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzVdWMqc-pISBBUhqatzlHch9iST3Pwc91HYyWdFxBMFRl0prCMEyAyDEPtA_VmB_oyTNiy7ejfeld4-CmEyAmkK0W8AS5yIm77ApdWg2-nS4FC9MmYZrzy8i4mwB6UEu6-9XVvU4_utc/s1600/halloween+hanging+decoration+01.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a></div>
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Start by making your templates - you can draw them free hand like I did or try Googling <a href="https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=halloween+templates+to+print&client=firefox-a&hs=Wy0&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&channel=sb&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=j-BHVPDBI-XD7gb1p4GgDw&ved=0CAgQ_AUoAQ&biw=1024&bih=635" target="_blank">'Halloween Templates'</a> for downloadable/printable templates. I drew half images on the fold of a cereal box. Cut the half image out, place it along the fold of a piece of paper then draw around the shape.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu8S81lCK1CzneSu1xumUDEn283nmHI3JxF7G324LaUBFN4PS9O0oAJ7jdTPLmlajXIlfsp79HaNtsSz4KoqXRPDmRxIfyYUCW4c3f7XFUCd4clzioGiLkRVHvitJnDs5ItlRCfe_DWRU/s1600/halloween+hanging+decoration+02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu8S81lCK1CzneSu1xumUDEn283nmHI3JxF7G324LaUBFN4PS9O0oAJ7jdTPLmlajXIlfsp79HaNtsSz4KoqXRPDmRxIfyYUCW4c3f7XFUCd4clzioGiLkRVHvitJnDs5ItlRCfe_DWRU/s1600/halloween+hanging+decoration+02.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a><br />
Cut around the image leaving a half centimetre or so margin around the line you have drawn (I'll explain why in a mo), then open out the paper piece, flip the template over (if you have used an old cereal box like me, so the printed side of the card is facing up), line it up and draw the other half of your template in. You will need one paper template for each felt piece you want (I used 4 bats, 3 pumpkins and 2 cats)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1956g4Wi-wr98wy5WxgiFNXHSXt0GZ0v2bvSWSf7yvTKcyT3pQKDIhkXh6jUj9jgCVnxzpI_YyU2TTpKkQ8Nnd4HpKVNel6_Uvh2xan2IkdI1VEBt_8e1zB8jl0I2z1P8oDHT-kR58jU/s1600/halloween+hanging+decoration+03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1956g4Wi-wr98wy5WxgiFNXHSXt0GZ0v2bvSWSf7yvTKcyT3pQKDIhkXh6jUj9jgCVnxzpI_YyU2TTpKkQ8Nnd4HpKVNel6_Uvh2xan2IkdI1VEBt_8e1zB8jl0I2z1P8oDHT-kR58jU/s1600/halloween+hanging+decoration+03.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwbtaQ9djFmD-7EOpvb-tSu1I35JRXbjwRR1FUUViF2ddZw7Zin4QTnKSSKrVVx97UcYYANuBpFHgvOSTveekbZw9tXgIuQ8wcU_E4AavcRpCbB_xrwYJpXNH2SXOCWt4S67FkcGRyMeI/s1600/halloween+hanging+decoration+04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwbtaQ9djFmD-7EOpvb-tSu1I35JRXbjwRR1FUUViF2ddZw7Zin4QTnKSSKrVVx97UcYYANuBpFHgvOSTveekbZw9tXgIuQ8wcU_E4AavcRpCbB_xrwYJpXNH2SXOCWt4S67FkcGRyMeI/s1600/halloween+hanging+decoration+04.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a>Now pin your paper templates to your felt.<br />
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When cutting felt shapes out it can be quite tricky to get a good crisp line. When you cut through both paper AND felt it it much easier, this is why you need that little half cm margin!<br />
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If you prefer you can just make card templates and draw round them straight onto the felt (biros are good for this) but I prefer this slightly more labour intensive method...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Ut6y8Oo0e4AMySWBGapW4oXRj5_DJAL2Z0AD6UhemFPHB7_JgTVfKt2AeckEf5tyr6WQOHCEcSSea9lJhgtoYjn9OPVgfE1p3HWMR0sP_EbCyq5QnI83J8BFPjzpmspita5jhGNkgCg/s1600/halloween+hanging+decoration+05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Ut6y8Oo0e4AMySWBGapW4oXRj5_DJAL2Z0AD6UhemFPHB7_JgTVfKt2AeckEf5tyr6WQOHCEcSSea9lJhgtoYjn9OPVgfE1p3HWMR0sP_EbCyq5QnI83J8BFPjzpmspita5jhGNkgCg/s1600/halloween+hanging+decoration+05.jpg" height="200" width="199" /></a><br />
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Arrange your felt pieces along lengths of ribbon. I used this lovely <a href="http://www.janemeans.com/black-white-dotty-ribbon-p-931.html?osCsid=5e897fe72e1b21cd315f2a04504d6ed2" rel="nofollow">black and white spotty ribbon</a> from the Jane Means collection - perfect for Halloween crafting! Make your hangers different lengths and arrange the shapes until you are happy with the way they balance out. Then pin them into place, making sure each piece is central on the ribbon.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQxYgY2JLtOYBskJIM-OteuTY9TYLfP62MBMN95Y4mARXpVvynHzaiGKSysDO1BYUS9LDmwdGtCF5vlj2szVRmY82tlA5GS3CtS39eQNC1UHDhAekH7Hlpv2X4CQJuRbrvJ_Sz1H-1DdY/s1600/halloween+hanging+decoration+06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQxYgY2JLtOYBskJIM-OteuTY9TYLfP62MBMN95Y4mARXpVvynHzaiGKSysDO1BYUS9LDmwdGtCF5vlj2szVRmY82tlA5GS3CtS39eQNC1UHDhAekH7Hlpv2X4CQJuRbrvJ_Sz1H-1DdY/s1600/halloween+hanging+decoration+06.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a><br />
Stitch the pieces into place using a simple running stitch (be careful not to pull the thread to tight or the ribbon will pucker up)<br />
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I love the contrast of this bright green vintage thread from Nan's sewing box!<br />
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Now loop your ribbon lengths over your branch and pin then stitch into place.<br />
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Tie each end of a length of thread, knitting yarn or string to each end of the branch to hang your Halloween decoration by.<br />
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We added some pompoms too... just for good measure!<br />
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This super simple Halloween hanging decoration would be an ideal half-term craft project for older children. You can use coloured papers instead of felt if you want; try a garden cane or even a wrap a coat hanger in washi tape or crepe paper to hang your ribbons from. Add pipe cleaner legs to turn the pompoms into black fluffy spiders for extra spook-factor...<br />
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Our hanger will probably end up in the kitchen window, casting spooky shadows across the front path to welcome trick or treaters on Halloween night. If you do the same, make sure you don't hang it near an open flame such as a flickering candle - we don't want any accidents!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>Wishing you all a Spooktastic Halloween!</i></span></h2>
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<br />Antheahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719630480668686454noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-101492375245106792.post-84665327052464653092014-09-17T14:58:00.000+01:002014-11-05T16:14:51.368+00:00Gang Labs 2 Winner!!!Just a quick post to say....<br />
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<i><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Oh Em Geeee!</span></b></i></div>
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My <a href="http://www.talesfrommountpleasant.com/2014/08/ganglabs-2-koselig-blanket.html">Koselig Blanket </a>design only went and WON the Wool and the Gang Gang Labs 2 competition!!!<br />
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I am currently happy dancing around the living room whilst decoding my notebook scribbles to get the pattern written out ready for publication...<br />
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So, thank you everyone who took the time to vote for my design, it is much appreciated! This year has been one of much soul searching and wondering what I am ACTUALLY going to do with my life (turning 40 can do that to you...) and winning this competition has confirmed to me that following my heart and taking this new direction is definitely the right way to go.<br />
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Can't wait to see my blanket available to buy as a knit kit on Wool and the Gang's website!<br />
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<br />Antheahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719630480668686454noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-101492375245106792.post-87385532953849028552014-09-10T18:33:00.000+01:002014-11-05T16:15:12.287+00:00How to... Crochet a made-to-measure plant pot cosy<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifA12K55C6cOfFbjKUl7S1vOCPZdz-J6gew9lCuKewnNXSk8-w6FuJP8NwxWOAqR0HXTgRrw5Z-aZS_5lEG3LuNVjakkEORuN_M4K0UabUsI-7kiD-DodIGSrQ5BxBYtNGx8wJzTdsd60/s1600/custom+made+crochet+plant+pot+cosy+blog+button.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifA12K55C6cOfFbjKUl7S1vOCPZdz-J6gew9lCuKewnNXSk8-w6FuJP8NwxWOAqR0HXTgRrw5Z-aZS_5lEG3LuNVjakkEORuN_M4K0UabUsI-7kiD-DodIGSrQ5BxBYtNGx8wJzTdsd60/s1600/custom+made+crochet+plant+pot+cosy+blog+button.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a>I picked up a lovely pot of apricot coloured chrysanthemums from my local supermarket for a bargain price of 60p the other day. I do hate to see a good plant left to die so naturally it came home with me.<br />
All it needed was a good water and a bit of dead heading to look as good as it's full-priced sisters.<br />
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Oh, and something HAD to be done about it's somewhat dowdy pot...<br />
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I love upcycling jam jars with little crochet covers so I though that would be the perfect way to spruce up the 'mum pot too. Thing is, unlike jam jars that tend to come in a pretty standard size, most pots are NOT the same so here is a little 'how to' for making the perfect, made-to-measure crochet plant pot cosy... (please note this cosy was made for my much loved Echeveria plant so I could take step by step photos for the purpose of this post...)<br />
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First thing you will need to do is take three measurements - the bottom of your pot, halfway up your pot (as most are tapered) and around the rim. For my pot the measurements were 27cm (base) 30cm (halfway up) and 37cm (rim)<br />
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Now hook up a length of chain stitches to fit comfortably around your base. I used Drops Bomull Lin yarn I had left over from a bag I crocheted earlier in the summer and a 4.5mm hook - for my pot I needed 46 chains. Slip stitch the last chain to the first to create a ring. Ch 1 then 1dc into each chain all the way around, slip stitch into first ch.<br />
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For the next round I hooked trebles - so ch3 then 1tr into each stitch all the way round, slip stitch into top of first tr. Repeat until you get halfway up the pot - on this cosy it was only 2 rounds of trebles, on the 'mums cosy it was three as the pot was taller!<br />
Now you need to increase your stitches to accommodate the widening of the pot. You can work increases by hooking 2 trb in one stitch. My halfway measurement was 3cm larger than the base. I measured my work to see how many trebles there were in 3 cm and it was 6 - this is how many stitches I need to increase on the next round. I spaced them evenly around the circle - every 7tr is an increase.<br />
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After the increase round check the cosy on the pot again for fit. As you can see on this pot the increase row takes me quite close to the rim. I want to add an eyelet row below the rim for some ribbon trim so my next round was just dc into each stitch to give me room for the eyelet row which comes next...<br />
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for the eyelet row you need to leave a gap between each tr to thread the ribbon - the easiest way to do this is tr1, ch1, miss a ch then tr 1 in next ch, ch1, miss a ch, tr 1 and so on... all the way round. Don't worry too much if you end up with 2 tr stitches next to each other at the beginning/end of round.<br />
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Try it on the pot for size again...<br />
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...then hook 1dc into the top of each stitch for next round. <br />
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Now we need to increase again to get the cosy up over the rim. Again check your measurements. This time I needed to increase the round by 7 cm (rim measurement minus halfway measurement) which meant approx 14 stitches. I did a 2 tr increase every four stitches which actually gave me a 13 stitch increase which was close enough!<br />
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Try it on for size again - a tall rim may need another row of trebles, a row of dc's may be enough for a smaller rim.<br />
Finally you may want to add a pretty edging. I used a simple picot stitch for this cosy (*1dc, ch 3, 1 dc in same stitch, 1dc in each of next 2 ch* repeat from *-*) but you could use any edging you prefer or just finish off with a row of slip stitches in a contrast colour. It's your custom made cosy - make it your own!!<br />
Again don't panic too much if the pattern doesn't match up perfectly at the end!<br />
Thread some pretty ribbon through the eyelet holes - I used Jane Means <a href="http://www.janemeans.com/narrow-sage-stitched-ribbon-p-11949.html?osCsid=bcdc66315d3c5b7645defc52d89b923d">Narrow Stitched Ribbon</a> in sage for the 'mums cosy and the gorgeous <a href="http://www.janemeans.com/advanced_search_result.php?keywords=vibrant+ribbon+set&SearchSubmit=Search&search_in_description=1">Vibrant Turquoise stitched ribbon</a> for the Echeveria pot cosy.<br />
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And there you have it - how to create a made-to-measure crochet cosy to pretty up your plants.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #990000;"><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">Happy Hooking xx</span></i></span></span></h2>
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<br />Antheahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719630480668686454noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-101492375245106792.post-91517113703899232342014-08-20T20:37:00.000+01:002014-11-05T16:15:56.178+00:00Ganglabs #2 - The Koselig BlanketDo you remember my very excited post back in June about how I got shortlisted in the very first Wool and the Gang Ganglabs challenge? Click<b><a href="http://www.talesfrommountpleasant.com/2014/06/wool-and-the-gang-ganglabs-design-a-bag-competition.html" target=""> here</a></b> to read all about it... (The competition was extremely popular and you may be interested to know that the three winning designs are now available to buy as <b><a href="http://www.woolandthegang.com/shop/knitwear/collections/gang-labs">knit kits</a></b> )<br />
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<b>WATG</b> announced the <b>Ganglabs #2</b> in the middle of July, and possibly the best summer weather we have had in years! Despite the soaring temperatures, however, we were asked to think about cold winter nights and submit beautiful blanket designs made with the gorgeous chunky soft Crazy Sexy Wool and WATG's new <b>HUGE</b> 25mm needles!<br />
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With just ten days to submit designs I got to work straight away...<br />
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I started knitting swatches using <a href="http://www.woolandthegang.com/shop/items/crazy-sexy-wool/made-by-the-gang/V347758314">Magic Mint</a> (it's really more of a turquoise but I am not one to split hairs...)<br />
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I wanted to create a beautiful textured fabric so I delved into a fab vintage knitting stitch book my mother-in-law lent me. Working with the huge needles was a challenge in itself and finding a stitch pattern that was simple to work, that held it's shape and wasn't too 'holey', bearing in mind that the recommended needle size for this wool is usually up to 15mm, was very much a case of trial and error but I finally settled on a beautiful herringbone stitch...<br />
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...and of course I simply HAD to add a fringe...<br />
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For the second Ganglabs challenge Wool and the Gang were only going to shortlist <b>three </b>designs so I was over the moon when I found out that, once again, I had made it to the shortlist and would get to turn my idea into an <b>ACTUAL </b>sample!<br />
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I received a box full of lovely squishy wool all ready to knit up my design and as I had planned to take Riley to my mum and dad's place in Wales two days before the deadline I had just five days to do it!<br />
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The blanket is knitted in two panels but that's still a fair few chunky ol' stitches on the needle!<br />
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Big needles + big wool makes for a fast growing blanket though! Each panel took approx 5 hours to knit...<br />
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The two panels are then stitched together using a large sewing needle.<br />
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Wool spaghetti! Cutting lengths of wool for the fringe... <br />
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...which is added to the cast on and cast off edges.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Presenting the Koselig Blanket!</span></h2>
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Koselig is a Norwegian word usually translated into English as 'cosy' but it means so much more than that! It is all about creating a feeling of deep warmth and contentment, companionship and comfort. The Koselig Blanket perfectly embodies this - warm, soft, comforting, beautiful to look at and perfect for snuggling under with someone special....</div>
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I think Riley likes it!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtwrGi4rOjhFIwqXEyFfEmY8kyJp9puqzEjYX2KgupcEr21SH7a2K_ATcA9ij0360II6f-e5u00oyylnBULzitTSxNY1ftcYl-GxdxKX_rMZclGcXtEMbdKuKiOrQMqQv7V7c-KK0aVow/s1600/kosileg+blanket+watg+11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtwrGi4rOjhFIwqXEyFfEmY8kyJp9puqzEjYX2KgupcEr21SH7a2K_ATcA9ij0360II6f-e5u00oyylnBULzitTSxNY1ftcYl-GxdxKX_rMZclGcXtEMbdKuKiOrQMqQv7V7c-KK0aVow/s1600/kosileg+blanket+watg+11.JPG" height="400" width="318" /> </a></div>
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The cat also seems pretty impressed...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMoc6f4Qcp7A4PUP2nXCdewBvR0G7Rr8HcBIAO1ubXAeZPKbAOlV61irUjVCnI8v_zPkhKdAKsXQbXu3WjMbw9GblCmFX26TF230p5lxB3nZPE6_wUFqaGrYJZBldYyJFNnfV1jNf4-xQ/s1600/kosileg+blanket+watg+with+Shadow+02.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMoc6f4Qcp7A4PUP2nXCdewBvR0G7Rr8HcBIAO1ubXAeZPKbAOlV61irUjVCnI8v_zPkhKdAKsXQbXu3WjMbw9GblCmFX26TF230p5lxB3nZPE6_wUFqaGrYJZBldYyJFNnfV1jNf4-xQ/s1600/kosileg+blanket+watg+with+Shadow+02.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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I am totally in love with my blanket which was so much fun to design and knit and even more fun to snuggle under! (although I am thankful the weather cooled off a bit - the panels got quite warm as they spread across my lap with each row!) </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">But what do you think? </span></b>Would you like to make the <b>Koselig Blanket</b> yourself? Well if it wins<b> Ganglabs #2</b> then you will be able to! At this stage of the competition it is now down to you lovely people to<b> vote for your favourite design</b> (you only get one vote so make it count!) - the winning design will be developed into a commercial pattern and knit kit available to purchase from Wool and the Gang for you to knit up ready for those chilly winter nights...<br />
I am chuffed to bits to get this far again but to win this competition would be awesome! I would love it if
you would vote for me and share this post and the competition with your
friends.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>For more information please visit the Wool and the Gang website <a href="http://www.woolandthegang.com/vote-for-your-favourite">here</a> or head straight over to the Facebook voting page <a href="https://www.facebook.com/woolandthegang/app_535312783221815">here</a>.</b></span></span><br />
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Thank you all in advance. Keeping all fingers and toes and everything else crossed!<br />
<br />Antheahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03719630480668686454noreply@blogger.com4