August? Accessory Time.

Well my body shape has changed a bit over the last year, being that I've given up my knitting and swimming regime for hardcore part-time learning. Since writing my book, and discovering quite how mathematical knitting is, I regained my joy of maths and decided to take it further. I loved it at school, and it always came very naturally to me. Now? Not so much. But I digress.

As a result of parking my behind at a desk for the last year, calculator in one hand, and chocolate in the other, said behind has become quite a bit larger. My chest is bigger, which is wonderful, but so is the belly, which is not. My point is, knitting for my shape is now a slightly different type of challenge in the fact that it is two-fold; (1) Identify flattering shape to knit for current size/shape (2) Try and work out which size you are?!!.

The Kim Hargreaves from my previous post looked incredible laid flat but was too big. I clearly think I'm bigger than I actually am, so ended up with an off-the-shoulder number hanging dangerously low at a work social function (don't lean forward, don't lean forward, don't lean forward); and did I mention how leggings don't quite grip to spanks? Yeeeeaah. Will require re-knitting. I had also crocheted Tutti Frutti (left) in a rich teal 50% silk, 50% Merino Blend, the Rowan Baby Merino, before whacking it in my trusty 'handwash' machine cycle. It ended up HUGE after spinning out of shape. Failure.

But don't worry folks, all is well in camp! I'm on a 3 month break from my degree, giving me plenty of time to check out Davina McCall's latest DVD; Intense (not a fan), and going back to her trusty Power of Three workout (definitely a fan), 3 times a week. No diet; I don't need to be miserable. Miserable is for losers.

Instead of hating my reflection every time I don new knitwear, and tossing each new jumper to the back of the cupboard, I've opted for a more positive option; mirroring my sock phase this time last year; and jazzing up my current wardrobe with a selection of new accessories.

Now, I have this reputation for constantly losing my hats, and it is founded on truth. I have got through eight Kat hats, that is, the pattern 'Kat' from Kim Hargreaves' strongest Winter book, 'Precious', soon doomed to be out of print. I am currently down to one remaining hat. I'd have one in every colour if I could. I've so far this month made two more; one in the new Kid Classic Green which is reminiscent of my original, and most favourite version, my 'Battle' Green Kat (right). Miss you, dude!!!

As for scarves, I'm gonna go for Jane Crowfoots 'Kitty' scarf, see Janes original one, below. I'm gutted to have read just this very second that Jane's original colourway is different to what is listed; part of the reason I picked them is because I was proud to say I had taken Jane's influences, I love her colours and I trust her combinations, implicitly. ....so I may be starting again.

This time last year, I was busying myself by knitting four pairs of socks for the predicted bitter winter. I don't know what it's meant to be like this year, but I'll have my hats and scarves.

Oh, yeah, and before I forget; I have a Rowan Lima hat to be taking care of; a customer decided to conveniently 'adopt' mine, (while I wasn't looking, I might add). The Rowan Winter Warmers book is just to die for. If I was still knitting my entire family their christmas gifts, there really would be something for everyone in there. This was the hat, and the colour; now let me talk to you about the shade, Argentina (right); now this teeny tiny slurped image doesn't do it justice, but it really isn't just grey. It's much more interesting than
that. There are flashes of pinky-purple strands, staying cool, but very rich for a grey. NOT IMPRESSED AT THE THIEF ENJOYING THIS NOW. In fairness, it was a little too big for me, so I'll have to knit this again on a smaller set of needles. But I will, eventually, knit it again.

So this is the hat, this is Belle <<<<

There are a pair of matching mitts in the book too, lets see how far I get..


It might still feel warm, everyone; but there's really no need to wait until it gets chilly enough to wear this stuff before you start making them. I don't roll that way!

Happy Knitting, all!

Finlay for you all!

Hello everyone!

It's taken me about 3 months to get around to it but I'm pleased to bring you a new free downloadable design; Finlay. Named after the little tyke it was designed for, this pattern is an easy introduction to lace, looks attractive on both sides and is relatively mindless once you get into the swing. As you can see it's not too frilly, so it's suitable for both sexes; with no filly or fussy edgings and finishing techniques. If for any reason you find you have loose edgings, try working the first and last stitches of each row through the back of the loop.

It's knitted in a lightweight-but-warm 4 ply, but don't be put off. It's an adjustable pattern which could easily be worked with any yarns and needles. Go for something machine washable and maybe slightly thicker if you're in a rush. I myself am a fan of the 4 ply as I'm sure you know.

This is he, I do hope you will make one if you have a baby to knit for. It's really lovely when it's done!

My next one will be knitted in the Rowan Fine Art sock yarn. I can't wait for that one!

4ply Life? Don Your Socks This May

It's completely weird because the last time of year you'd expect to be knitting socks would be May. But I've gotta tell you; it's gonna happen, people. The sock community has gone bananas in the anticipation of the launch of the new Rowan Sock Yarn, Fine Art. I have had the fine opportunity to sample said yarn; and although I haven't gotten around to using it yet (It's like, the only colour that isn't quite 'me'), my breath is quite firmly held for the others to arrive.

I think the skein I have is Serin; its a smooth, soft yarn with a not-quite-there aura of fur from the small mohair content. Initially my main fear was colour pooling, but I'll have to get back to you on that one.

I'm quite looking forward to using the yarn for a garment, actually. Kim Hargreaves' new book, Spirit, appears to contain a few 4-ply pieces. I am, and have always been a bit of a 4-ply nut. This yarn is a little special for 'just socks'. I will of course use it for it's original purpose aswell though.

It's been a very very long time since I've felt any excitement for knitting. I do believe that it is possible to over-dsiect your hobby until little is left. Slowly but surely over the past few months, and knitting samples for display, reminded me of what I enjoyed; 4ply with intricate technique. End of. Doesn't matter what it is, what the yarn is. Even in crochet, I am quite happy with that.

So these are my new babies;

 
Ariene

Well this one is as good as finished. With added length, and an adjusted neckline (I am severely allergic to V-necks), this is a very short chevron pattern (and by that I merely mean just the one stitch between each flip from increases/decreases). I fell in love with the yarn's rich tweedy, matte texture when knitting the sample. It's a fragile yarn, but when treated with love and care, it's gorgeous.

I have 'slashed' the neck off this one with Sarah Hatton holding my hand. I'm never comfortable adjusting anything technical on my own. I am getting there though.

Poise

 This is a sweater from the new Kim Hargreaves book, Spirit. Now, this is a toughie, and I have been torn. The edging uses a 2mm needle, with the main body knitted on 2.75mm. Well, you can see my problem; I do not own a 2mm needle, nor have any intention of using one (except for socks, perhaps), so I used a 2.25mm for the edging instead, and kept to the 2.75 for the body. My tension is bang on.

I chose to use Wool Cotton 4ply instead of the recommended Rowan Siena, and in a deep Royal Blue. The yarn choice has presented it's own difficulties; the added bounce and elasticity of the Wool Cotton has caused the rib to really seize up and shrink. I've had to add some stitches to the front piece to add some extra rib like a gussett.

Also, the very subtle textured stitching on the front (a new one from Kim, I believe! I always like it when she brings us a new texture), which is basically just wrapping stitches in twos in strateigic places on the stocking stitch, barely shows up at all. This may also be my choice of colour. Luckily, Debbie Abrahams had just the thing; 4ply (size 8) beads in a colour called 'Denim'. They look great together, they really do. Plus they match my Engagement ring! God I love this blue.

 

What are my nails doing, I hear you ask? Well that's an easy answer; they are knitting! For my homemade OPI french mani with added sparkle from subtle shimmer shade 'I juggle.. men' check out my hands in action in the Daily Mail Videos on their webpage!

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/home/prmts/article-2297395/Get-Knitting-The-Daily-Mail-Learn-knit-hearts-content-step-step-video-tutorials.html

Until next time, guys!

2012 is finally over. Bring on 13 please, Bob!

It's pretty awful, I know, I haven't been around for a very long time! Which is terrible really, being that there is an awful lot going on at the moment. Mainly procrastinating from my Maths degree, which is pretty much what I'm up to now. Or knitting (although, I would consider these to be one and the same).

I've had a very good day of procrastination, really. Beginning with dipping into my bag of lush sale goodies I picked up from the shop yesterday. I'd never managed to make it to one of their 'January' sales before, so I trotted along with some Christmas money to buy myself something pretty. It's no secret that I've been struggling with pretty severe depression over 2012, and femininity is one thing which just gets thrown out of the window. Which is why my experiences with the following just had to be blogged about. They've made me really happy.

The Lush thing was a mystery ballistic(bath bomb) from one of their reduced gift sets. This big bad blue baby is known as 'Magic'. 

This was my bath today. It's discontinued, actually, so I'm not quite sure why I'm bothering to write to you about it, it was just lovely. I'm hardcore allergic to citrus, so this pepperminty, herby ballistic was ultimately refreshing. The deep teal-royal blue water put me in an untouchable mood. Unfortunately my landlady decided to pop that bobble for me, but that's another story!

In need of some galvanising of the bouncy mood? Buy A Streetcat Named Bob, a heart-wrenching tale of a recovering drug addict and an abandoned, destitute cat. They pull each other out of really awful situations to become the personification of best friends. Such an incredible story. And James Bowen has a sequel pencilled-in for next year. I can't wait.

"Such an incredible story"

I'd stopped reading fiction for the best part of 9 years, after a mind-bursting reading list for my Philosophy A-level. I'm certain it was a contributing factor in me leaving college early. I returned to reading earlier this year and have read 4 novels so far including Stephen King, Hitchhikers Guide to The Galaxy and now Bob. Bob touched me personally. Just such a wonderful story. I can't wait to meet them, I hope I'll be able to one day. Although I've worked in central London for years, I've never had the pleasure of running into James Bowen and Bob.

Another crafty return has been my return to knitting (woo!!!).
        March-April was when I'd hit rock-bottom, and although it sounds silly, anyone who knows me will realise that if I don't feel like knitting, something is well-and-truly wrong. It marked the beginning of 5 months where I didn't knit a stitch. Working for a knitting company, this was very worrying for both them, and me. I took a silly facebook quiz a long time ago; I forget what the questions were, but it 'typed' me as the 'bass guitarist' in a knitting band. Odd, yes; but also kinda true for two reasons. Firstly; I am (or was) a half-decent bass-guitarist. Secondly, bass guitarists support others (so the quiz was basically saying that you knit for others), so my fiancée Ben, and my Dad, have both had luxury jumpers on the go. I've enjoyed making them.

My Dyakcraft needle set; Hazelnut

What I haven't enjoyed is my experience with Linda and her team at Dyakcraft, the most poorly-run and anti-customer run company I've ever had the displeasure of having to come into contact with. I blame my Mum, it was her idea. Apparently they were the most luxurious knitting needles on the planet. Mum dressed these up as an 'engagement gift' (I know, lucky Ben, right?!) with the view that I could knit stuff for me, and the fella. So we both went on the waiting list for our hand-crafted pairs between December 2011 and January 2012.

After much nagging of the proprietor, we eventually recieved our needles over the last two weeks. But we had to fight for them, despite having paid for these nearly a year in advance. They're very expensive too. This is my most diplomatic way to encourage you to NOT buy these. I'm disappointed my Mum's money has gone to a company like theirs. I could be really nasty and go into detail, but I won't. Just trust me on that one.

My best friend left this year to work on a cruise ship. She's also a hairdresser, so finding a new one has been nothing short of fun! I've just gone for a local cheapie salon until she gets back. I miss her loads, hope you're having fun, Hinal!

So I guess that's my year! I mean, other stuff happenned too but not all great! Observe:

• Unnamed publishers re-printed half my book and decided to remove masses of my material, my signature, and acknowledgements without telling me
• Christmas, including shopping in Oxford Circus, blargh!
• Job move from one side of London to the other (still getting used to this one!)
• Two of my friends married, one christening and another new one on the way. That's pretty darn exciting actually!
• Rowan Mill Christmas Knitting weekend up in Holmfirth with me as the tutor, and my boss as my assistant. It was oodles of fun. Didn't feel like work at all!
• The new James Bond Film; Skyfall, with appropriate OPI nail-cessories to DEFINATELY own!
• My new kitty, Ziggy Stardust, with bollocks as big as footballs. Plays fetch. He's an absolute joy.
• Eurovision with Jedward.
• Oh and some other rubbish.. the Jubilee and Olympics. Meh.

So there's nothing left but for you guys to see some pictures of my Christmas gifts. Roll on Birthday presents. Getting old, people!

Nails Inc. Goodybunch!

Morning Everyone! I've been digging out the nail paint, much to the relief of my best mate Hinal, who constantly shouts at me for not using the ridiculous amount of nailpolish I use and buy. So check it out:

 

Nails Inc recently had a massive fature in Glamout Magazine (UK), of which I am a subscriber. Although I no longer wear make-up or nail varnish, I love to buy them and read about them. Just a true sign that I am lazy and have let myself go, which I'm now needing to reign in.

Above is the gorgeous new line from them; the brand new Nail Jewellery Range. Above is the Diamond shade and below is my use of the Sapphire Shade. I'm a Nails Inc Club member, which entitles you to a 10% discount, so I bought both, plus the red magnetic polish and a holographic topcoat. Essentially, a massive sparkly goody bag, with a mahoosive, lovely free gift bag!

  

I'd bought the Sapphire with a view to matching my engagement ring. But being that I'm so aversed now to having a bit of colour on my hands, I start off with each colour by trying them on my feet. Above is one coat (allbeit, a thick one) of sapphire over two coats of Betty Blues by No7 with a couple of coats of Sally Hansen Mega Shine Topcoat.

The shine is dazzling. I own a million glitters and this is by far the most multi-dimensional with a deep, thick cover of colour. It's gorgeous. Im so happy I bought it. That Deep Electric Blue is pretty much my favourite colour.

With that in mind, I felt a French Mani was in order. My new book is just out and I'm teaching a knitting course in Peterborough on Saturday, I'm just praying it will last really, but it would be nice to have prettified hands for the day! So a special mani. I'm a little out of practice, so don't mind the mess!

 

I'm tring really REALLY hard to stay recession-proof at the moment. My money seems to be going nowehere. So having my nails done is not a viable option. But with the amount of polish and gadgets I own, it shouldn't be, really.

As you can see, my nails grow quite well, they always have done, but for added strength, I use OPI Nail Envy for Dry/Brittle nails, applying every other day as suggested. It contains Vitamin C and lots of other nutrients which help reinforce the natural structural integrity of your fingernails.

The polishes used are OPI 'Alpine Snow' (White) and 'Passion' (Sheer peach), 2 coats of the latter, with a subtle (yes - very subtle, it's not really come out in the picture..) coat of 'I Juggle.. Men' over the top. In an effort to get them dried quickly, I've used the China Glaze fast drying top coat so I could get on with packing for the weekend ahead.

I quite like this mani. But if you're not-so-confident with freehand tips, you can get self-adhesive french manicure guides which stick to your fingernail like a stencil, and you just paint over the top, helps keep them looking straight. I used them once, but they adhered to a not-quite-dry base coat and ripped it up when I removed it. You can get them off ebay but be careful!