tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-247432322011-07-07T23:13:00.599-04:00Yarn, knitting, photography, sewingcaptain nattynoreply@blogger.comBlogger1041100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-14234166282554573762010-08-21T18:21:00.001-04:002010-08-21T18:21:20.402-04:00

Losing my vegetarianism Originally uploaded by L O L E E I have started reading about food lately which is changing the way I think about what I eat. 1. The Butcher and the Vegetarian's premise is that a "life-long" vegetarian trying meat for the first time. It started out well but the way the author dived into the meat world turned me off. It almost seemed more appropriate as

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-8560308786649507722010-07-07T20:19:00.001-04:002010-07-07T20:19:12.097-04:00

Handspun Dreidel Originally uploaded by L O L E E I've been knitting up my handspun as well as selling it. Test knitting should be a normal part of the process but of course I do things to half assed for that.Summers used to be devoted to shawls and socks but this year will be all spinning all the time. I even have a spinning buddy since Marion just got a Lendrum DT.

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-77523417020023810402010-06-25T20:29:00.001-04:002010-06-25T20:29:23.014-04:00

WTF are those? Originally uploaded by L O L E E WTF is going on? Toronto is a shitty city at the best of times but when the G20 jackboot comes down it's even worse. At least the sewer smell is constant. Don't believe me? Go to the northwest corner of King and Yonge at 8:00am and take a deep breath.

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-90520481622769239572010-05-09T09:33:00.005-04:002010-05-09T09:47:53.446-04:00

Marion and I went to the Downtown Knit Collective's annual yarn sale and workshop called the Knitters Frolic. It's a great place to see the wares of local and not so local yarn shops as well as online yarn sellers. My new favourite is Indigodragonfly - beautiful yarns, reasonably priced. Hopefully the Purple Purl will be carrying more of this.This is what I bought:From left to right: Briar

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-69272178991845552922010-04-30T17:54:00.001-04:002010-04-30T17:54:06.921-04:00

Lone Blossom Originally uploaded by L O L E E I've been fuming, knitting, spinning and taking pictures.The world is as horrible as you want to acknowledge I suppose.

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-66705465261219930142010-03-29T19:09:00.001-04:002010-03-29T19:09:54.134-04:00

Flashing the Stash Originally uploaded by L O L E E This is all the yarn. I didn't take every last ball out but 80% of the stash was out. It's a good opportunity to examine your stash for yarn you've forgotten you own.Almost everything is "good yarn" but I could certainly stand to lose some yarn weight.Unfortunately I fell (er, dove) off the stashbusting wagon and ordered some sock yarn

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-6646803948958262922010-03-25T18:55:00.001-04:002010-03-25T18:55:54.612-04:00

Maggie - just because Originally uploaded by L O L E E I don't want to do anything right now. Not work, not spinning, barely knitting. Just want to hang out with my cats.

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-91108820289313352062010-03-03T19:12:00.004-05:002010-03-19T18:13:25.186-04:00

My wonderful brother made me a computer so I'm going to make an effort to blog more often.Knitting NewsI reached the halfway mark in my 50 hat challenge and took a break. I cast on a Rectangle Shawl, Jared Flood's Bridgewater Shawl and a couple pairs of socks for my brother. I've also discovered Feministy's Traveling Woman shawl and have knit 3 of them. It's an easy little pattern you can

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-31805840758388798522010-02-13T19:33:00.001-05:002010-02-13T19:33:21.946-05:00

2010, Baby! Originally uploaded by L O L E E I hate the Olympics.

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-34111858837749038502010-01-12T05:45:00.006-05:002010-01-12T19:07:57.189-05:00

There are a lot of things I want to accomplish this year. These aren't resolutions mind you. Just personal goals.1. Knit 50 hats for charity by OctoberI'm already up to 9.2. Save $1000 a monthI've made a budget I can live and that isn't too strict.3. Pare down the stash (I guess 3 and 1 are related)No random yarn (or fibre) buying online4. Do a better job at workI need to start giving a damn

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-64293573930325897272009-11-20T09:58:00.001-05:002009-11-20T09:58:34.756-05:00

TTC Frustration Originally uploaded by L O L E E Commuting is for fools

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-29880446958515860362009-11-14T09:54:00.007-05:002009-11-29T09:52:03.164-05:00

RoadtripMarion and I drove to Newmarket to check out the spinning wheels at Gemini Fibres and two yarn stores. Everyone at each place was very friendly and helpful. We tried the Schacht Ladybug which is very cute and the Kromski Minstrel and Sonata. I think a Minstrel wheel will be in my future when I can afford it and can justify the purchase of another wheel.As for spinning I've decided to

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-56757597068965905862009-10-15T13:52:00.001-04:002009-10-15T13:52:05.646-04:00

The 2010 reckoning | rabble.caShared via AddThis

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-52236401891041735112009-10-13T16:45:00.002-04:002009-10-13T16:54:43.873-04:00

A fucking disgraceAnti-2010 Olympic marketing circusFull text of President Ahmadinejad's September 23, 2009 speech to the UN"In the Name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful"All praise be to Allah, the Lord of the Universe, and peace and blessing be upon our Master and Prophet, Mohammad, and his pure Household, and his noble Companions""Oh, God, hasten the arrival of Imam Al-Mahdi and grant

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-75940327950684437542009-09-19T17:45:00.004-04:002009-09-19T17:53:25.858-04:00

It's funny how I can think of all kinds of things to say on my blog when I'm not actually online.Anyway, here's an update. I've been participating in the 100 Strangers photography project. It's a very cool way for shy people like me to speak to strangers and improve their photography skills. It's also made me do things I never would do usually, like stick around the city after work to look for

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-930620046454188582009-08-15T15:19:00.003-04:002009-08-15T15:31:25.761-04:00

Spinning and watching the cats loll around seems to be all I'm doing nowadays. Spin singles during the week and ply on the weekend.The weather has suddenly turned seasonal and I hate it. At least the smog, haze and humidity will only last about another month. It is the drinking season though so Stone's Ginger Wine with plenty of ice and a bit of cold water is in order. Summer and Winter are

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-20537136673829202962009-08-06T19:15:00.003-04:002009-08-06T19:21:14.439-04:00

I've been buying fiber while trying to save money which doesn't make sense at all. It seems that hobbies are necessary for a well-rounded life but do they have to be so expensive?On the knitting front I've been knitting my third February Lady Sweater for the Purple Purl's knitalong. It's knit using Dream in Color colorway Visual Purple.

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-55210693665589490772009-07-26T04:51:00.006-04:002009-07-26T05:06:22.024-04:00

I have a Lendrum! Spindles lead to wheels which lead to another obsessive hobby. I'm finally getting the hand of it and love spinning my own yarn. Of course I don't know what I'm goin to do with the yarn but it's always fun to make something yourself.I must be depressed again because Lars and the Real Girl had me crying several times. I suppose because it's a movie about loneliness and having

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-20258562382509424602009-07-14T05:47:00.003-04:002009-07-14T05:55:40.329-04:00

Sometimes it's hard to figure out if you're depressed or just realistic.I shouldn't read People You'll See in Hell but I can't help it. It gives me no hope for humanity. But Life After People, a fascinating documentary, on what the the world would be like without destructive and selfish humans, gives me hope for the earth. It was beautiful to see nature take over the human world.

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-86548532049199506652009-06-22T08:58:00.001-04:002009-06-22T08:58:57.710-04:00

My yarn Originally uploaded by lolee - knits Another obsession is in full swing. Once I got the hang of spinning and a short lesson from someone at my LYS I haven't stopped. I tried out a Lendrum double treadle wheel and put my name down for one but might wait until I've tried out more wheels (and saved more money) before actually buying.

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-30524965091436355222009-05-17T18:36:00.006-04:002009-05-17T18:52:02.085-04:00

I'm trying to spin with a drop spindle. The spindle isn't dropping so often now but the yarn looks terrible. It's strange how people (me) expect to be good at something as soon as they start doing it. I have a lot of roving to mess about with and no money for a spinning wheel so mastering the drop spindle may be my summer project.In knitting news I'm soldiering on with the Longest Night Shawl.

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-36779906728473675282009-05-11T10:39:00.001-04:002009-05-11T10:39:45.776-04:00

Longest Night Shawl - Detail Originally uploaded by lolee - knits Still knitting the shawl. It's going to take a long long time to finish. By the end there are supposed to be over 600 stitches.

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-31602747545512299762009-04-30T18:15:00.003-04:002009-04-30T18:34:34.485-04:00

Dethklok Rules!!I've been listening to The Dethalbum constantly since downloading a few days ago. It's not my usual music so I'm surprised how much I'm enjoying it.On the knitting side I've started the Longest Night Shawl using Alpaca with a Twist Fino. It's going to take a long time to knit this shawl because I've already run out of stitch markers and some charts must be repeated a few times.

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-51827426363412718792009-04-29T13:22:00.003-04:002009-04-29T13:33:42.970-04:00

Since I've started listening to the podcast DoubleKnit I've realized how little reading and movie watching I do now. Audiobooks take up most of the slack but it's not the same as holding a book and devoting all your attention to it. Also, the wrong narrator can ruin an audiobook while a "real" book's voices are always perfect in your head.Anyway this is what I've been listening to:Short Stories

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-58982629294795337182009-04-27T12:57:00.001-04:002009-04-27T12:57:40.416-04:00

Knitters' Frolic 2009 Haul Originally uploaded by lolee - knits We went, we browsed, we bought. Marion and I got to the Frolic when the doors opened and after a few hours we were tired out. I only bought 11 skeins of yarn and no sock yarn at all so I'm proud. However, there was some pre-Frolic shopping of yarn I've been eyeing for months. We visited the Purple Purl who had a wonderful

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-77352647012551499192009-04-11T18:37:00.001-04:002009-04-11T18:37:48.752-04:00

Hangin' on the Line Originally uploaded by lolee - knits Sock yarn is the basic building block of my stash. Currenly there is enough sock yarn to make 41 pairs of socks and that's just the yarn I consider "sock yarn" not fingering or DK weight that would be suitable for another purpose. I suppose my goal this year should be to get that number down enough yarn to make 10 pairs of socks

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-60237187938332631962009-04-10T19:28:00.003-04:002009-04-10T19:42:45.392-04:00

The Knitter's Frolic is in two weeks so I'm getting my stash in shape by trying to sell on Ravelry and knitting outstanding skeins quickly.So far this month (besides the cashmere scarf below) I've knit:Licorice Stick Socks (from Twist Collective) in Socks that Rock2 Slouchy Copy Cat Hats in single skeins of Dream in Color and Tanis Fiber Arts

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-15364882841574373272009-04-06T14:39:00.001-04:002009-04-06T14:39:07.718-04:00

Queen of the Earth Scarf - Ruffle Originally uploaded by lolee - knits I like to be the first to knit a pattern even though there are sometimes errata as in this scarf pattern. Luckily I mentioned it at the LYS where I bought the pattern and they gave me replacement charts. This scarf is begun by crocheting a provisional cast on (not my favourite way to begin) and knitting one side then

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-75587838835079837992009-03-26T20:54:00.002-04:002009-03-26T20:56:15.795-04:00

Nothing is right. Work, knitting, health. I see all these people running to catch the bus or subway or elevator and wonder what the hell they are running for. I'm in one of those moods where I want to overhaul my life because it all seems stupid and meaningless.

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-19278819435312748242009-03-18T20:52:00.001-04:002009-03-18T20:52:37.387-04:00

St. James - Sad memorial Originally uploaded by lolee - knits "Death is real, comes without warning. This body will be a corpse."

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-74098728500485349442009-03-07T10:59:00.003-05:002009-03-07T11:10:45.486-05:00

I'm not religious but I thought it would be a good idea to give up wine and yarn buying for Lent. So far so good. I suppose everything is just habit and can be given up if necessary.MonkeysMonkey socks are consuming my knitting. I will probably end up knitting a pair of these in every colour of the rainbow. Right now I'm knitting a blue pair with Tanis Fiber Arts sock yarn and a green pair

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-76925032428538624242009-02-21T20:05:00.003-05:002009-02-21T20:12:09.869-05:00

This song captures my present mood.

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-80724296513539494842009-02-18T03:52:00.014-05:002009-02-18T04:16:25.127-05:00

Mid Mod MorganTrying to make do and use what I have on hand is 2009's theme so I'm finishing Amy Butler's Mid Mod Quilt started in 2008.It would go much easier with cat intervention but wouldn't be so interesting to make.Off the NeedlesI finished the Amused pullover from Winter 2008 Knitty and it turned out quite well. Instead of ribbing I hemmed the sleeve and body. I don't believe in New

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-88067243078560521842009-01-18T21:38:00.001-05:002009-01-18T21:39:58.567-05:00

Watching a Human Edge documentary tonight on comas had me in tears.

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-58384408827168006562008-12-05T16:58:00.002-05:002008-12-05T17:04:31.586-05:00

CalorimetryOriginally uploaded by lolee - knits Drinking too much so feeling depressed again. But knitting, knitting, knitting cheers me up a bit.I finally knit a Calorimetry after looking at the pattern 2 years ago. Thank God for Ravelry or I'd forget about the patterns I've been meaning to make.I'm in the midst of a February Lady Sweater for my grandmother. I'm hoping to finish it while I'm

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-70497350242635324792008-11-27T15:03:00.001-05:002008-11-27T15:03:47.202-05:00

Sister nap Originally uploaded by lolee - knits Time to think about travelling to London to see family.Time to plan large knitting projects.Time to shake myself out of a mental slump.I'm feeling as lazy as my kittens right now though.

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-61179312082008982202008-10-20T16:12:00.001-04:002008-10-20T16:12:24.482-04:00

Spoilt for choice Originally uploaded by lolee - knits I have a lot of yarn. That's an understatement but I need to reinforce that fact in my mind by saying it often. I laid it all out on my bed this weekend and I was shocked/surprised to see how much yarn I owned.I need to save money for an upcoming vacation and not buying more yarn will be the most effective way to save up.

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-89975466200436244822008-09-21T19:32:00.003-04:002008-09-21T19:33:48.604-04:00

Autumn is my favourite season but I feel sort of down now. It might be the change of season but who knows. It's probably all the election yammering. As if it will make any difference. I am glad to see that Canadians don't get as impassioned as American voters. Less naive perhaps?

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-8491538814874497402008-09-07T06:04:00.005-04:002008-09-07T06:17:32.558-04:00

A quick update:Sock knitting continues:And here is my first cashmere project. I loved working with this yarn.SewingWhen it gets hot I can't knit large projects so I stick to small knitted things and sewing. I've started a quilt with Amy Butler fabric and have been going to a weekly beginner sewing class. My skirt is almost complete and should look nice.Vogue Knitting TourI saw this event

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-20908558718488440222008-08-14T14:04:00.001-04:002008-08-14T14:04:07.739-04:00

Alstroemeria Originally uploaded by lolee - knits ... and the kitchen sink.I haven't been able to keep a diary since I was a child and my mother read mine. I can now because I don't care who reads it. It does seem very self-absorbed to only write about yourself but it does help me to feel less depressed when I can put down what I'm thinking and read how I was feeling before.The cats

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-38593612927494441522008-08-08T18:39:00.003-04:002008-08-08T18:50:33.855-04:00

The cats are running over everything and I enjoy just watching them.The more I read online the more depressed I get. As much as I'd like to hide my head in the sand it's not a practical way to live.

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-74573263384658905992008-07-20T14:27:00.001-04:002008-07-20T14:27:27.329-04:00

Everybody loves kitty chow Originally uploaded by lolee - knits It seems every knitter has cats and I'm in so deep I thought it was time to get some. Their names are Morgan and Maggie and they're still kittens. Too bad you can't knit cats sweaters...

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-59911838365534262552008-07-06T19:41:00.001-04:002008-07-06T19:41:59.755-04:00

February Lady - almost done Originally uploaded by lolee - knits I've been knitting and thinking too much. The knitting goes well the thinking is unhelpful.

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-11209755028410036672008-05-28T17:50:00.003-04:002008-05-28T17:59:26.048-04:00

I've had no time to blog because of feverish knitting.SocksCardigansShawlsand ScarvesBesides all that I haven't felt like doing anything lately. Life is seeming pointless again. Common people can't control anything and whatever will be will be. Gas prices go up - nothing you can do about it. Everyone bitches but they still drive. Wars happen - nothing you can do about it. Watching the news

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-74118278720023580172008-05-03T20:05:00.005-04:002008-05-04T05:31:12.121-04:00

Where have I been?To London!I went to visit my grandmother and knit. I knit so much I finished the double-knitted Uncle Argyle scarf I started sometime in March. This scarf used up 4 skeins of Cascade 220 and must be the longest scarf I've ever knit.My nan liked it so I left it in London. While I was knitting this massive scarf I found time to go yarn shopping (of course).I had another wonderful

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-44087186224386865612008-04-02T19:32:00.004-04:002008-04-02T19:38:50.589-04:00

Are people ever happy with no exceptions? I feel like everything in life is gray and unappealing. I'm going to the gym, travelling in a week and still don't feel like getting out of bed sometimes.

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-7844333184341164662008-03-15T02:39:00.004-04:002008-03-15T02:50:39.756-04:00

Lots on the go right now.I've finally finished the Socks for Veronik I've been working on since January. It hasn't taken this long to knit a pair of socks for a long time. The pattern is easy to memorize and the second sock was done before I knew it. The heel isn't the usual slip-knit combo so I'm wondering how long it will last.I thought this colourway of Socks that Rock (Sunstone) was much

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-67071066039174265932008-03-03T05:31:00.004-05:002008-03-03T05:43:18.131-05:00

While buying some books at the local used bookstore I saw some vintage pattern books near the register. I couldn't resist and they were only a few dollars so I bought a few black and white books that appeared to be from the 1950s. The sock patterns don't look very complicated. Instead of of texture there is colour work. What I found most interesting about the sock pattern books I came across

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-54776652401854726092008-03-01T06:02:00.007-05:002008-03-01T06:22:01.681-05:00

I've been finishing and starting projects and putting others on ice. Finished In the 'finished' pile are the two sweaters I had my grandmother work on. It should have taken no time at all the knit the sleeves and do a looser bind off but I was distracted by other projects. When my current projects stalled I picked them up again and they are done and dusted. HibernatingThe Socks for Veronik I've

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-58876053644526286752008-02-12T19:09:00.001-05:002008-02-12T19:20:26.119-05:00

So many things have been going on it's taken me a long time to get back to my little knitting blog.I've lived in the same house for almost 30 years but two weeks ago I moved for the first time in my life. It wasn't as hard to leave home as I thought it would be. It was time to move on. The new place is smaller and there is chaos right now because of renovations. I can't find a library book due

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-20041167531755697302008-01-27T10:24:00.001-05:002008-01-27T10:25:17.895-05:00

"A well-made sweater, knitted with good will and good wool, is beyond price."Elizabeth Zimmermann

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-19241664085172634132008-01-19T14:51:00.001-05:002008-01-20T06:53:14.509-05:00

Besides swatching for upcoming projects I've been working on the Notre Dame De Grace Cardigan.The pattern is from Interweave Knits and it wasn't too complicated just a couple of short rows to worry about. I thought knitting it in only one colour would be too boring so I made the shoulders and collar white. It's soaking now so I hope the red doesn't run too much onto the white parts.Besides

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-13356131615771809982008-01-18T04:52:00.001-05:002008-01-18T04:55:18.925-05:00

Here are all my swatches. I'd like to sew them together and make a little blanket of them and keep adding swatches but I haven't got around to it yet. Maybe when I have no yarn and am waiting for a sale I can get this done.Sometimes I want to jump in and knit something without swatching and I haven't had major disasters when I do. However, when I do bother to make a swatch I feel like I'm

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-22201161136485394412008-01-13T11:52:00.001-05:002008-01-18T04:55:37.989-05:00

Lettuce Knit had a sudden 30% off sale. How could I not go?! And since I had my sister-in-law with me I took her to The Purple Purl to check it out. I got some Mirasol Hacha I've been wanting for a long time and bamboo addis.The yarn diet has been extended until July (HA!).

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-88379020231054975922008-01-06T11:36:00.001-05:002008-01-06T11:36:25.661-05:00

Sheep and Wool Hat Originally uploaded by lolee - knits My first resolution related project of the year. I used some forgotten stash to make this hat and I like the result even thought it is a little too long.I'm knitting away on the Notre Dame de Grace Cardigan and hopefully will be finished the right front and another sleeve by next weekend.

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-2650712464218602882008-01-05T16:42:00.000-05:002008-01-05T16:46:08.890-05:00

I guess I should make some knitting resolutions...1. Only buy yarn if you really, really, want it AND have a pattern for it. Not because it's pretty/on sale / I must buy something.2. Only visit yarn stores once a month (except for Stitch n Bitch).3. Must attend Stitch n Bitch at least twice a month. My knitting is way too solitary.4. Current stash = approx. 23,000 yards. Have approx 10,000 yards

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-15507965838346045852007-12-31T06:35:00.000-05:002007-12-31T08:36:16.363-05:00

Ta Da!In order to justify buying a load of yarn I made myself finish a lot of projects.The February Baby Sweater finally got a button holeThe Lucy in the Sky socks were completedThe Hedgerow Coat's sleeves were reknit and sewn inThe Rectangle Shawl (aka Grass Shawl) was finished and I crocheted an edgeWhat's NextWith those outstanding projects out of the way now I can focus on new projects with

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-78514254124441390142007-12-27T18:22:00.001-05:002007-12-27T18:25:22.042-05:00

Score!Originally uploaded by lolee - knits The annual Romni Wools 25% off boxing day sale didn't disappoint and I got some great yarn for next year's knitting.My sister-in-law and I met about an hour before the store was due to open. I was told there would be a line outside the store but I didn't believe it. People started lining up half an hour early! I headed for the Mission Falls, Araucania

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-42876937869275716632007-12-16T19:52:00.000-05:002007-12-16T20:00:12.618-05:00

While finishing smaller projects and rethinking the Hedgerow Coat I've been planning for the big stash expedition on the 27th. I've narrowed down which yarns I want and which are available at my LYS and which projects to make in the new year.These are the definites:Cascade 220 - Red - Bubble PulloverNature Wool Araucania - Blue - Curvy Top Down RaglanMission Falls 1824 Wool - Black -

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-48065141325559883782007-12-11T20:08:00.000-05:002007-12-11T20:22:07.356-05:00

I've been knitting a lot and finished a major project but I'm just not in a good mood. It could be the change in weather and lack of sunshine but being depressed feels more normal to me than being happy.There seems to be no point to anything. Why spend 8 hours a day, 5 days a week at a job you don't like in order to live somewhere you hardly spend time in? Why vote when the same shitty results

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-21151906478434708342007-11-27T20:59:00.001-05:002007-11-28T05:21:51.355-05:00

Went to my LYS and they confirmed that there will be a 25% off sale on December 27. I hear there's usually a line up outside the store before the doors open so I'm planning what to get now. I bought 1 skein of Mission Falls Wool to swatch because I'd like to buy 20 skeins for a project.Draft Wish ListPaton's Classic x 9Galway Chunky x 13 (Kenobi from Knitscene)Galway Chunky x 13 (Asymmetrical

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-71046086462511123532007-11-23T13:55:00.000-05:002007-11-23T20:40:15.610-05:00

Ravelry, how I love thee.I got my invitation on Wednesday and have been on it constantly since then. There are so many fantastic features it's hard to pick a favourite.1. Integration with Flickr. It's wonderfully easy to share pictures.2. Stash. You can create an Excel spreadsheet of stash! I had no idea how much yarn I owned before. 16,000 (approx.) is hardly anything!3. On Tuesday I finally

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-7308646936544755342007-11-15T03:40:00.000-05:002007-11-17T09:15:35.987-05:00

My StashI've talked about it enough so I thought it was time to show it.Skeins I'd like to knit up soon have been put onto top of my four stash bins. It's mostly large skeins of Black Bunny Fibers. The dark green peeking out on the left is destined to be a Norwegian cardigan.These are the contents of the 4 underbed containers I've managed to wrangle my stash into. The stash hasn't been this

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-33340903814983187422007-11-10T17:34:00.000-05:002007-11-10T18:01:11.093-05:00

State of the Stash It's not too bad. I haven't had this little yarn since I seriously started knitting. The problem is the amounts the yarn is in. Most of the single skeins I have are 400 yards of worsted so they're too little to make a sweater with and I'm not in the mood to make scarves right now. Those skeins are going to have to sit for a while so that I can use my smaller single skeins.

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-53978616203361215192007-10-29T10:10:00.001-04:002007-10-29T10:25:21.694-04:00

Picture 626Originally uploaded by lolee - knits For the first time I blocked the pieces of a garment before beginning the finishing. It looks good and after a little hesitation the sewing up was easy. It feels great to put on a garment and have it fit well. I made the sleeves wider than the pattern called for because I was worried they may be too wide. They are a few inches too wide now so I'll

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-36072958681061433912007-10-04T10:18:00.001-04:002007-10-04T10:18:27.608-04:00

Cardigan Lady Originally uploaded by lolee - knits I bought some old photos at a flea market in Paris in 2003. The pictures caught my fancy since they seemed to be all of one family in the 50s.Some of the pictures (like this one) were taken near Sacre Coeur not far from where I bought them.

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-58305787943768867642007-10-01T18:25:00.001-04:002007-10-01T18:29:58.561-04:00

Socktoberfest MaterialsOriginally uploaded by lolee - knits I'm joining in Socktoberfest this year and these are the skeins I've chosen to knit up. They are all Socks that Rock.Clockwise from Top Right: Obsidian, simple 3-1 rib socks for my brother; In the Navy and 24 Karat, STR Brioche socks; Jade, STR Cedar Creek socks; Tanzanite, Pomatomos, Algae - undecided.Except for the rib socks I've never

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-73827209067138600022007-09-29T15:34:00.001-04:002007-09-29T15:43:29.899-04:00

Amy Butler Frenchy HandbagOriginally uploaded by lolee - knits It's surprising me how knitting has fallen by the wayside for the past few weeks. I only have one sleeve left on the Hedgerow Coat but I haven't picked it up for a while. I also need to get moving on some items for my grandmother and presents for Christmas.But instead I've been sewing, planning sewing products and ironing fabric.

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-11798849867745928222007-09-24T08:59:00.001-04:002007-09-24T09:03:16.542-04:00

Top of Hat for NannyOriginally uploaded by lolee - knits I've been very busy knitting a hat my nanny commissioned. She shrunk the brioche hat I knit her last year and asked for another one. I used the pattern in Weekend Knitting but I still can't wrap my head around the instructions for the crown. This time I used EZ's advice from her Knitting Workshop DVD. I've leant the DVD to my sister-in-law

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-83364366479382047832007-09-15T16:49:00.000-04:002007-09-16T07:42:07.891-04:00

Sort of depressed again for no particular reason. In my case overthinking leads to sad thoughts which leads to misery. When I'm in a bad mood and aren't ready to come out of it I listen to Nick Drake. His music is beautiful. Hourglass Pillow

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-58356589175592774332007-09-09T20:01:00.000-04:002007-09-09T20:25:23.854-04:00

Lolee Knits... and Sews? As if one obsession isn't enough I've now caught the sewing bug. My mother has been sewing for about 45 years and she was constantly sewing when I was a kid but I never took any interest in it. Now that I'd like to alter and possibly make my own clothes I'm discovering why she loves sewing so much. Plus Amy Butler's fabrics and patterns are lovely and inspiring. Wee

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-61212562377979234312007-09-03T06:25:00.001-04:002007-09-03T06:49:12.006-04:00

The weather is getting cooler which means more knitting. Since I had some unfinished projects lying around and new projects I wanted to cast on it was time to start finishing things. (1) The Norwegian Sweater I was going to complete this sweater in April but was frightened off by the sleeves. It has finally been assembled and blocked. My mom helped me with pinning in the sleeves and basting (

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-70723605273513393882007-08-16T05:39:00.001-04:002007-08-17T05:29:59.968-04:00

I've been knitting constantly for about a month and have finished quite a few items. Sometimes I lose interest with knitting for a little while but I always come back to it. Besides the knitting I've been looking for a new house closer to the city which has been exhausting and exciting.Another Shawl, and another, and another...I've knit 3 more Charlotte's web shawls. One may become a Christmas

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-54364536729255680302007-07-02T11:13:00.000-04:002007-07-02T11:27:28.841-04:00

I've been knitting nonstop for a few weeks and I'm worn. I've made many socks, my first shawl and started my second. I'm a little depressed right now and in a rut.Charlotte's Web ShawlThis is my first shawl and I'm very happy with it. I used Koigu of course since the pattern came from the Koigu book. It was easy to memorize after a while and didn't take very long to knit. Here it is before

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-12818669691893615672007-06-16T10:52:00.000-04:002007-06-16T17:46:21.386-04:00

Serious Sock KnittingMerino Lace Socks Knit with Dream in Color handpainted yarn. When I first saw the pattern I didn't even consider knitting it because there was a chart and I'm used to memorizing a sock pattern and knitting it on the go. I thought these socks would make a nice gift so I started knitting it during my lunch hour and at home and knit them in no time. Will certainly knit another

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-19999357428396017052007-06-03T11:51:00.000-04:002007-06-03T12:07:22.054-04:00

Finishing! I've finished knitting all the pieces for the Nantucket Jacket but as usual I am troubled by the sewing. I love knitting but the last step to having a beautiful finished object is the worst. I need to bring the pieces into my LYS and ask for help because I am baffled by this cardigan and don't want to make a mistake. My Summer of Socks In the meantime, because it's so hot and humid

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-39834337088442243572007-05-14T05:45:00.000-04:002007-05-17T08:54:52.475-04:00

I've been finishing my grandmother's socks.And starting new ones... The sock pattern is from Favorite Socks book published by Interweave Knits. The yarn is STR Footzey Foo. Very spring!My more "serious" knitting has been on the back of the Nantucket Jacket. I'm really surprised that I'm liking the pattern so much. I almost forgot to mention that i went to the Downtown Knitters Collective Frolic

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-44875367929916873972007-05-08T14:25:00.000-04:002007-05-10T09:29:21.574-04:00

All my planned big future projects are from Interweave magazine. When I first started knitting and reading Interweave the patterns were very intimidating but I think my confidence has improved a lot.First (and already on the needles) is the Nantucket Jacket from the Winter 2006 magazine. The pattern is so interesting with cables, twisted stitches and seed stitch that I wanted a plain yarn to show

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-8902339406798899432007-04-22T08:42:00.000-04:002007-04-22T09:06:04.758-04:00

Sock Fashion Show!*********************************************Socks that Rock in DreidelI like the colours in this yarn a lot and it was my new favourite until I met....Socks that Rock in Nodding VioletAs you can see I knit the same sock pattern all the time but I tried something different for Socks that Rock in Barney Rubble. I knit Blue Moon Fiber Arts' Central Air pattern. Unfortunately I

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-29382506990126243422007-03-16T20:12:00.000-04:002007-03-17T16:24:17.564-04:00

The Fair Isle is done and it was incredibly easy. I wanted a deeper yoke so I repeated pattern A in slightly different colours. I only bought the main colour for this sweater so it was a great stashbuster too. I'm pleased with the result and will certainly knit another one next winter. The weather's already getting warmer and I hate knitting big things when it's too hot. Other newsI have

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-78342223495485382862007-03-04T04:07:00.000-05:002007-03-04T10:58:15.940-05:00

I've been busy at work at home and travelling so there haven't been any new posts for a while.Here's what's been going on:SnowI gave up on the Ram's Horn jacket. I only had the left front and collar to complete but the thought of sewing up another sweater had me picking up and putting down my knitting so much I started something else. I started knitting my first Fair Isle sweater! I thought it

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-88912535334221923902007-02-02T06:32:00.000-05:002007-02-03T03:24:07.221-05:00

I have finally finished the body and sleeves of my grandmother's cardigan. In under two weeks too. I'm quite proud that I could get so much knitting done in such a short time.Resolution Day so I went to Romni yesterday to get black superwash wool for the cuffs etc and completely forgot it because I hadn't been there for so long and was wondering the aisles. However, I did manage to get: More

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-62571536857092676452007-01-28T10:40:00.000-05:002007-02-03T03:25:36.880-05:00

One week later...Here's is my nanny's cardigan one week after casting on:I almost can't believe how much progress I've made in one week but I've been knitting at lunch for an hour, on the train sometimes (30 minutes each trip), and at home for at least an hour in the evening. I have 3 skeins left and they should be enough to finish the other sleeve and the rest of the body. I got nervous so I

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-7043113109118588072007-01-23T18:45:00.000-05:002007-01-23T19:10:08.480-05:00

More luscious Black Bunny Fibers to chase the winter blues away. I love the worsted weight. Damn the New Year's Resolution! I can't resist buying yarn online but I haven't been inside a yarn shop for weeks so that must be worth some brownie points.My nanny's cardiganThis is a top down cardigan and it's been very easy to knit. I started knitting this on Sunday, January 21 and want to finish it

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-5734116232497331172007-01-12T05:42:00.000-05:002007-01-19T18:59:26.846-05:00

I've cast on for my first major project of 2007 - the Ram's Horn Jacket from Knitting Nature. I was going to use Patons Classic Wool in Natural Mix. I don't usually stay with the colour of yarn on the picture of the pattern but I think the jacket would look great in a nice grey. However, next to the Patons was Galway which I had never seen before. It felt soft to the touch and had a nice blue

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-11418896367906158332007-01-07T12:05:00.000-05:002007-01-12T05:41:15.188-05:00

Wooly Bullies: The Underground Crochet Movement A funny little movie about the knitting and crochet divide that features some shots of Lettuce Knit.More Finishing!This is my shortened version of the Hex Coat from Knitting Nature. This is a nice coat but it was way too long so I shortened it by 5 hexagons. I used Peace Fleece again and I'm happy with how it turned out. Now I just have to pick up

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-4070416475943575212006-12-30T07:47:00.000-05:002007-01-05T06:38:45.969-05:00

The holidays are a great time to finish knitting if you have no other responsibilities to worry about and can just sit down in front of the TV and get down to work.The grand plan cardigan capelet in Wrap Style was begun in early December but I plunked down and worked at it during Christmas and Boxing Day. Here it is on Mom from the front and from the back before blocking.I used Black Bunny Fibers

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-48495377374708242402006-12-11T06:30:00.000-05:002006-12-12T20:12:32.353-05:00

I have finished two hats in the past two days. I used the brioche hat pattern from Weekend Knitting.The first hat was supposed to be for my grandmother but I gave it to my dad so I had to make my grandmother another one and I cast on Sunday morning and cast off Sunday evening. I've never made a hat with more than one colour before and I'm pleased at how they came out. As you can see the top of

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-90708521843813007072006-12-07T18:04:00.000-05:002006-12-07T18:17:00.453-05:00

My life feels very disorganized right now. I fall to sleep on a bed half covered with knitting books, yarn and clothes. My stash is all over the place and I don't know what I'd do if I get a moth invasion.Here is a little peek into my stash. I put all my "sweater-worths" into a suitcase so at least I have them all in the same place.The light blue is Fleece Artist Kid Silk. I think I have about 4

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-35576413372151963882006-11-20T19:05:00.000-05:002006-11-26T11:13:09.976-05:00

Here is the pride of my stash. The last 6 skeins came today so I had to put them all together and gloat. Hopefully this will carry me through 2007. I'm trying to formulate a knitting plan for the next year based on seasons. In the summer knit hats, gloves and socks (all small portable items) and in the I'll winter knit garments.And another new toy.It's rather larger that what I need but it was a

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-46316075688741769242006-11-19T15:31:00.000-05:002006-11-19T15:47:54.597-05:00

A "finished" cardigan!Just a few dozen yarn ends to weave in and 8 buttons to put on. I am watching the Elizabeth Zimmermann DVD section about making a seamless sweater and I can certainly see the advantage after spending all Sunday afternoon putting this cardigan together. The DVD is inspiring me to move out of my knitting comfort zome. She made the colour work on the beginner hat look so easy

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-81066087442504654682006-11-17T07:34:00.000-05:002006-12-12T20:10:20.564-05:00

Blood, Sweat and Wool More progress on the Mod Squad Jacket left front right sleeve left sleeve (in progress) back right frontBetween making the project and getting the finished garment I find it really hard to concentrate. Sometimes I want to start something new and exciting but I know that if I don't slog on then the wonderful wool won't be turned into something I'll be able to brag

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-90610132430781126422006-11-13T19:23:00.000-05:002006-11-13T19:29:15.440-05:00

I have finished the Sienna Cardigan! It is rather heavy but looks nice and I'm glad to have finished something. I started to finish the Bristow cardigan I started for my mom but something has gone wrong with the shoulder seaming and it will have to be unpicked. The mod squad jacket continues. I'm starting the first sleeve which shouldn't take long if I work at it at lunch and in the evenings.

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-22392348963294631652006-10-31T19:11:00.000-05:002006-11-13T19:22:47.848-05:00

I've noticed that I'm moving out of my colour comfort zone and am attracted to greens and reds all of a sudden. When I see a new yarn I like I usually make a run for the purple or dark blue and don't look at anything else but I've been heading towards dark vivid reds and vibrant greens.This is the red Manos del Uruguay yarn I've chosen to make my fourth(!) Clapotis. I must be a glutton for

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-21278860023923405022006-10-25T19:16:00.000-04:002006-11-15T04:11:29.830-05:00

I bought some wonderful green Peace Fleeceto make this jacket

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-48589636547041440832006-10-23T18:22:00.000-04:002006-10-25T19:22:55.572-04:00

Lettuce Knit is truly the LYS for the younger, hipper knitter in town. It's a fairly small store packed with some of the best yarns that can be found in the city: Socks that Rock (which usually sells out the day it arrives), Blue Sky Alpacas and Seasilk to name a few. It is located in the funky Kensington neighbourhood of Toronto with natural health food stores and a vegetarian shoe store on the

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-12433244307087062742006-10-22T19:41:00.000-04:002006-10-26T03:02:03.360-04:00

On the day after I returned from London I went to my LYS for a book signing with Tracey Ullman and Mel Clark authors of Knit 2 Together. I had never seen the book until I got to the store and I was impressed. There were some cool patterns in there and I intend to make the scarf/bonnet if I make nothing else from it. However the garments aren't sized for my body and the biggest chest size was 40".

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-1473039634419075792006-10-21T05:33:00.000-04:002006-10-21T05:44:48.230-04:00

I have joined the Black Bunny Hopalong. This is the first knit a long I have ever done and I'm eager to start. I bought two skeins of Black Bunny sock yarn in Lion and one blue/grey skein.I first heard about Black Bunny on Knitty D and the City the hilarious knitting podcast by two Philadelphia knitters. You should definitely check them out if haven't already.

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-62949473968870730632006-10-19T20:51:00.000-04:002006-10-26T02:57:06.822-04:00

October 19 - 22 the Creative Festival is in Toronto. Knitting is a feature of the show so I decided to check it out.The south building of the convention hall is quite a walk away from the north centre, which is the Front St. entrance. There were some knitting vendors there and a lot of quilting, and sewing machines. A few of the yarn stores that were outside of metro Toronto were there but the

captain nattynoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24743232.post-1161126238473262192006-10-17T18:58:00.000-04:002006-10-21T06:11:24.121-04:00

I have too much in the pipeline right now. I think there are about 10 projects I want to finish this year. I'm afraid that if I wait to buy the yarn I need I'll lose interest and end up with an even bigger stash.I am currently working on the sleeves of the Bristow cardigan at knitty.com for my mother. The Cinxia cardigan is planned for my grandmother and the Sienna cardigan for me. I find

captain nattynoreply@blogger.com