Hook ‘n Spin – A true fiber addict

Ah, the warm days and cool nights north of the big cities. It is so relaxing to have the windows open and a cool (sometimes cold) breeze coming on a quiet night. I’ve been getting some knitting and crochet work done this summer.

I finished 2 pair of socks with one skein of Tofootsies. One pair was a traditional leg down and the second pair was toe up. I used an eastern cast on method for the toe up pair and loved the way the toes came out (above). The jury is still out on the “life style” short row heel method and the too tight bind off I got on the leg. I will have to look at different patterns to adjust these. I even used a large crochet hook to bind off with.

Personally, I feel there is more sizing control with the leg down patterns and I really don’t mind Kitchnering the toe. That being said, I still have to admit that I am a beginning knitter and these opinions should be taken not too seriously.

I forgot to get a picture of the slippers I finished for my daughter. She’ll have to take some and send them to me. I also have one and a half mittens knitted hoping to get them finished this week.  I used the left over yarn from her slippers. I used the Cascade 220 in a deep purple color and it is such a rich looking yarn and lovely to work with.

I just got the new IK magazine and have sent away for the yarn and needles to make the Far Afield Vest for a Christmas present. Also waiting to start is yarn for booties for some coworkers babies. Twins born last week and one due at the end of September. I found a free pattern for a baby hoodie and haven’t decided whether I want to tackle three of them yet.

I have almost finished the merino blend yarn I have been spinning this summer. It is a reddish coral color. I didn’t like the original dye and so I have been blending white in by combing together before spinning. It has been a slow process, but one I am enjoying the results of. I think I will make a sweater for myself with the results.

The alpaca I bought at the lavender festival is now in the hands of a friend who raises baby doll sheep. She is carding ivory baby doll with the caramel colored alpaca so I can start spinning to make all my boys socks for Christmas.