Tales of Princess Knitting Needles

This One is For Me!

2011-08-17T00:23:00.001-07:00

Still working on the Britcom Throw, but it's more of a yarn waster than anything. Not that it's not looking amazing, it's just something to use all the pastel yarn I've been gifted, and will no doubt gift the finished throw. It's a really good project to work on a bus, or during a car ride, but it's not something I'm super excited about.

That being said, I've started to plan out my next project details! This is one I'm going to keep, which hardly ever happens, and hopefully I will actually finish before the end of the season! It's going to be a Union Jack sweater, made of wool! The pattern ("London Calling" from Stitch N' Bitch Nation) calls for mohair which is super fine and super expensive, and I'm not really feeling like spending $12.50 plus tax for a skein and needing over ten skeins. My favorite yarn to knit sweaters with, Cascade 220, will do just fine and it's on sale online, PLUS I'll be using larger needles, and the skein has more yards of yarn than the suggested mohair, which means less yarn required! Hooray! Now I'm excited!

The Startings of the Britcom Throw

2011-07-26T22:17:00.000-07:00

Finally getting around to using up the stashed yarn I got for Christmas years ago. Caron Soft in pastel colors. Not really my cup of tea. I'm more of a black/purple/pink/blue type of girl, but it seems silly not to use this stuff up. I've got two skeins of each color! They yarn is an absolute dream to work with. Very soft and simple, I just wish the colors were more my style. Regardless, this throw is coming along very well. I'm about 1/3 done so far! Very simple pattern, three panels of 3 squares 20" long in alternating sequences. Finished the first panel.

I've called this the Britcom Throw for the obvious reason that I've knitted most of it while watching Britcoms. I started with Coupling and am currently on the fourth series of Peep Show (though I did watch a few episodes of Spaced in between).

Cake Tissue Cozy

2011-07-11T23:04:00.001-07:00

Look what I made! New project I crocheted in just a day! Unfortunately, I didn't make enough cherries as I had intially hoped, but I'm pretty stoked on how it turned out. I'm excited to make various sorts of "cakes" as tissue box cozies for gifts this Christmas! /spoilers

Plastic Quilting Sheets

2011-02-22T17:29:00.000-08:00

Starting a new project today. I felt inspired after watching Totoro. More details when I actually have some progress to show you.

You know those plastic sheets with holes for stitching that you see all the time at big chain craft stores? Do NOT take them for granted! It took me an hour to find them online. I had no idea they're considered quilting templates. Fuck, I didn't even know you had to template to quilt! But after some consideration, it makes complete sense.

I apologize for my lack of updates. I'm starting to finally feel like I have a life in the city. Hopefully I can balance that, my full time job and my need for a creative outlet. I miss knitting. Trust me.

Oh! By the way, cancel on that last project I was working on it. It was a pain in the ass for something I wasn't that excited about anyway.

Lost in Translation

2010-10-28T22:13:00.001-07:00

Anytime you create a custom pattern, it is necessary for a series of trial and errors. I forget this and just assume the translated design will be knitted flawlessly and all will be well in the world. First off, the Apple logo I have designed is completely and mathematically accurate. Hooray! Secondly, knitting with silks and bamboos on a size 4 needle AND trying replicate the ideal logo is apparently harder than I had previously assumed. Oh, and bonus! I think I knitted an extra row in the purple section meaning my first trial is most likely fucked. Super bonus, it's also being knitted for a guy and there is this old wive's tale, a myth if you will, that once you knit something for a guy things will inevitably unravel. I knitted for one guy prior, but he's my best friend in NY and there is nothing either of us can do that could possibly damage our friendship. Believe me, we've tried. SO there ya go. Stressed over this stupid Apple and I'm three colors in and so far, not impressed with my knitwork. I am impressed with my design though.

Edit: (10:55pm) After some brief thought, I think I'm going to try to do a swatch of the pattern using Cascade 220 superwash, which I'm more used to knitting intarsia pieces with. This bamboo and silk, while very soft and nice, just isn't keep the stitches secure. It looks flimsy and fucks with the edges of the Apple. I'll report back tomorrow. Or later tonight. Demands how motivated I feel.

The End of the Owl Sweater

2010-10-21T23:45:00.000-07:00

I would like to apologize for two things: The shitty quality of these pictures and the horrendous denim couch that my parents have. I'm staying here for a night as I'm heading north at the end of this week. My dad and his wife turned in at around 10, so I decided to spend this downtime of not packing to get some of my knitting stuff squared away. Anyway, the terrible pictures of the awesome owl sweater I made for Megan:

I would've taken better pictures if I hadn't packed my camera. Fail. Megan's pretty good at sending me pictures of things I've knitted for her, so as soon as she sends me a picture of her wearing it, I'll post it here.

I'm sure you're dying to know my next project. I'm currently juggling two and now graphing a new pattern to start sometime in the next week. I'll keep you posted.

Buttons! Buttons! Who's got the buttons?!

2010-09-11T22:59:00.000-07:00

Today I indulged myself in buttons. Lots of wonderful, goth-tastic buttons. A wise man once wrote in a book about how buttons are the hardest to find when you're looking for them and to always be aware of them. That man was Mark Montano and you can buy that awesome book here. So I bought buttons. And I'm already inspired by them! I am now juggling two projects at once again! One being a simple wintertime scarf (two tones and striping of course!) and the other being a very particular purse. I don't want to spoil the surprise, but it's going to be pretty magical!

I finished Megan's owl sweater and will be sending it off to her shortly! Kind of pissed that I threw out a perfectly awesome box to send it in. It's now in my recycling bin. Booooo.

Somehow A Vital Connection Is Made

2010-07-04T21:41:00.001-07:00

Pardon my wreck of a workspace (ie: my bed), but I kind of just get consumed by my project that I don't notice the mess I make until I'm ready to call it a night. Today I finished the second sleeve and connected it to the two yokes (the pieces of the body). Now I'll start on the owl cable pattern of the collar. I expect to be done in less than a week.

I'm On A Plane

2010-06-30T19:40:00.000-07:00

One good thing about sitting on a plane for six hours is that you have a lot of time to knit. I managed to start the second sleeve of the owl sweater and finish about 9 inches in 3 hours. I intend to finish more this evening while watching The State. That show seriously ended too soon.

Guppy Sweater Complete!

2010-05-21T23:43:00.001-07:00

Finished! I started it in August of 2009, and before you think I'm ridiculously lazy, I'd like to state in my defense it's been one of those back-up projects that I tend to when I'm burnt out on another task. It's made to measure a xs-s man, as I thought I was going to gift it, but now I kinda want to keep it. It's not fitted though, so it makes me look kinda boxy. It's made from Cascade 220 wool in Black and Grape Jelly.

Sweaters Done Both Ways

2010-05-12T23:27:00.000-07:00

Working hard on Megan's cute owl sweater! I'm using Cascade 180 Superwash in Wisteria. Apparently it's washable wool. No felting! Just wash it cold, with your hands. I think? I can't really read the all the symbols the label has. What does the triangle mean again? This page might help. Anyway, the following is a picture of the progress so far.

I really dig knitting a sweater on circular needles. The Guppy Sweater took forever because I was knitting on straight needles, and making four different pieces. I apparently started that sweater in August of 2009 and STILL haven't finished it. It's just so tedious. Picture!:

I still have to sew all four pieces together and then block it for shape and size. Boring. But I love that grape jelly color and the fact it looks like a jersey with the raglan sleeves. Or will, when it's finally finished.

Making A Game Plan

2010-04-13T18:16:00.000-07:00

Hi, friends! I wish I had pictures to post, but right now I have consumed myself with the most boring and tedious part of knitting: research. I'd show you some of the designs I've sketched, but we don't want to let the monkey out of the bag now do we?

I'm not-so patiently awaiting some supplies in the mail before I start another commission piece! This time a sweater with owls! Fancy, right? I'll be sure to show you progress. In the meantime, I'm working on the last sleeve of the Guppy Sweater (still) and working out the game plan for my upcoming site. The site will not only be a portfolio of past projects, but a gallery of my new designs that I will be making based on custom commission orders. I will obviously keep you posted on that as well.

I'm very excited about these new knitting endeavors! Thank you all for your interest and support. <3

Checking In.

2010-03-25T20:07:00.000-07:00

Still knitting, I promise! Currently finishing the Guppy sweater, which I predict to be completed by the end of April. I'm just finishing up the last sleeve, and then on to seaming and the collar! Pictures soon! But not right now because I'm getting a bit of a headache and really should be working on that sleeve.

Megan in Her Hat!

2009-11-03T13:20:00.001-08:00

Megan in the hat I made her. She is so gorgeous, isn't she? Megan, not the hat! Though the hat is pretty great if I do say so myself. ;)

Nothing feels better than to know that the person you knit for genuinely loves what you made them. It's the best feeling ever. I'm really happy! Also, I wish more people would send me pictures of things I knitted them!

Megan's Hat

2009-10-23T22:41:00.000-07:00

I just finished making Megan's hat! It was a challenge, but it came out FANTASTIC! Well, at least I think so. I'll be sending out to Little Miss Moe on Monday. I had never knitted a brimmed hat before. It's very similar to knitting a regular beanie, except longer and then you have to cut a brim out of plastic and sew it in there. Anyway, this is my last commissioned piece I will be working on until after the Holidays, or until my Christmas gift Guppy Sweater is done.

I've been knitting while listening to a lot of my last.fm. I'm xtinesuicide on there, btw. Right now, Killing Joke! Awesome.

White Scarf Sent and Delivered!

2009-09-26T13:27:00.000-07:00

Finished and folded white scarf!

Scarf all tied and ready for delivery!

Sorry it's been a bit since an update. I'm sure those wondering if I started your project are a bit worried, but I assure you, I have started work on every knit I said I would do. I just finished the cable skinny scarf and sent it out to Peter, who said he got it and will send me pictures of it in use very soon! Yay! I'm sure I've mentioned this, and will do so again: If you have something I knitted you, I would really appreciate some good quality photos of it for my portfolio. Granted, I do have some already taken from when I worked on it, but I really like the idea of seeing what became of it, where it went.

I'm currently knitting a brimmed hat for my good friend, Megan. A little nervous as I've never made one with a brim before, but so far so good! I expect it to be done in about a week or a week and a half.

Soft White

2009-09-07T23:51:00.000-07:00

I am currently working on two knitting projects at once! Hence the lack of numerous updates. The picture above is of a scarf I'm knitting which is part of that special fall deal I have going on in a nice off-white. The yarn is ridiculously soft and I look forward to working with more of it. I also learned a trick (it's pretty old school, but when you teach yourself, it sometimes takes longer to learn nifty tricks) that helps keep the messy edges of scarfs in line! Apparently if you slip the first stitch of every row, it keeps it all nice and tight! Woot!

I've also decided to make an actual portfolio of my work, so if I've made you something, please send me pictures of you in it! I want an online gallery or album and an actual hard copy book.

Winding Balls

2009-08-29T00:25:00.000-07:00

Knitting nicely along the Guppy Sweater, as you can see. The back piece is entirely finished, and this is the start of the front. I posted the pictures of the balls of yarn because I had to hand wind those myself, and that is tiring and obnoxious work. I really should get a yarn winder one of these days. I've been saying that for years. I tried to spin a center pull ball, which is when you pull a string that starts at the middle of the ball and well, when I pulled it, it was stuck. So I pulled it hard enough to break the yarn. So apparently, I didn't spin it right, and will try again next time. Maybe. I don't think it's really necessary either way, as long as the yarn isn't knotted.

I'm still taking orders for the scarfs I'll be knitting this fall season, which I talked about in my last blog. Email me if you're interested! (drxgirlfriend@gmail.com)

Xtine's Commission Deal

2009-08-22T22:49:00.000-07:00

This one if for the ladies, or a guy who wouldn't mind wearing a skinny scarf. Hell, if boys can wear girl jeans, I'm sure they'd be into skinny scarfs. So, for the Fall/Winter I will be making scarfs approximately 4"x60", made of cotton and silk blended yarn in assorted colors for $45 each. This includes the cost for supplies, shipping and making it. I will only be making them as commissioned work, meaning you need to email me (drxgirlfriend@gmail.com) with the color you would like and I'll provide the email address for payment to my paypal address. I won't start working on the scarf until payment has been processed and I will give you an ETA for it to be done. These will be hand knitted, obviously, so please understand that takes time. I'm also knitting more than one project at a time, hence the early start on this deal.

It will look like Heather's gothy scarf, which I wish wasn't black for the sake of this blog. It's hard to see the cables (the twists that make a pretty design).

A special thanks goes out to J'aime for showing interest in my talent, picking out this scarf for her choice, and overall inspiring me to do this.

Pissed Off Knitting

2009-08-15T19:38:00.000-07:00

I'm just starting to finish off the back piece of this sweater, and I wish I could blog with more excitement, but unfortunately today has not been too kind. I have moronically dented my car (right above the left front tire) on a pillar in the parking garage at my work. Totally stupid. I feel like an idiot. So I have to use the money I JUST saved up to fix it. I need to fix it so I can sell it when I finally move back east and can freely rely on public transportation. I'm really pissed. I JUST saved that money only to spend it on shit I don't want to spend it on. I'm trying to remain calm by finishing this piece of the Guppy Sweater puzzle and watching True Blood. Sigh. Wish me luck.

The Beginning of the Guppy Sweater

2009-08-10T21:58:00.000-07:00

One up on etsy!

2009-08-06T19:02:00.000-07:00

I finished the hat! It's kinda small. I'll have to make two inches for a rim next time, instead of one. I like how it turned out though. Maybe just wish I had made it longer, like I just said. Anyway, if you'd like to buy it, I put it on my etsy!

I also just bought DPN and I lost one. Within an HOUR. Wow. So I'm going to go look around for it.

Hooray! My yarn arrived!

2009-08-05T21:58:00.000-07:00

I Just got my first order from Alpaca Direct in the mail today! Really fast service and packaged all nicely! I was so excited that I even stashed it on my Ravelry. WOOT! Now I'm just torn between finishing that time wasting hat, or starting the sweater that I bought all this yarn for!

What's been knitted... sort of.

2009-08-03T23:44:00.000-07:00

Yeah I never finished that teddy bear. Just lost interest in it, and it was only to learn how to knit on DPN. And I learned and so it wasn't a wasted effort. I took a break off of knitting for a while. Then I finally got around to finishing a commissioned scarf. It took three times to finally get it right, as cashmere is ridiculously hard to knit with. I had to use wool to make it an actual scarf. The cashmere was too thin and flimsy.

Now I'm waiting for some Cascade 220 yarn (wool) to arrive from Alpaca Direct so I can start knitting my second sweater. This one will also be derived from a simple sweater pattern, yet definitely an Xtine original. I'm excited, and hopefully it won't take me over a year to complete.

Currently I'm making a simple hat (beanie) with yarn from my stash until my newly ordered yarn gets here. Much like the scarf, it's wool with cashmere, this time in two colors. I like it, but I'm not sure who I'll end up giving it to. Maybe put it on Etsy? We'll see. I have a feeling I'll list a lot of projects on there and just pull them off and gift them as birthdays appear. As you can see, nothing is posted at the moment.

The Tube Sock Scarf (First Draft)

2009-04-26T21:16:00.000-07:00

I lost my original scarf in a trip to San Francisco earlier this year, and who truly knows when I'll get it back. It was dated anyway, being almost three years old. My original concept for a scarf was a garter stitched striped scarf in bright pink and black with tassels. I now have created a scarf that resembles a tube sock. This is the first "draft" of it. I have since modified it. I'm knitting myself one now in the official selected format. Unfortunately, I started in acrylic and ran out, and switched to wool. The gage is pretty much the same and you can't really tell, but I can. I don't think it'll bother me much since it's mine and not a gift. Mine will be black with white stripes.

I have no arms!

2009-04-10T18:56:00.001-07:00

I have no arms!
Originally uploaded by drxgirlfriend

Progress on my first time double needle knitted project, a teddy bear! At first I had no idea what I was going to end up doing with this guy, but then I remembered my friends Matt and Heather are having a baby! So I'm going to send it their way when he's done for little baby Liam. Shhhh! Don't tell them!

Bear Body

2009-03-29T16:17:00.001-07:00

bear body
Originally uploaded by drxgirlfriend

Progress on the bear front! Look at his cute little body! I'm not sure if I admitted this earlier, but I did, in fact, start knitting the body inside out at first. Not that you could tell! Because I started over from the legs.

DPN Knitting Inside Out. OOPS.

2009-03-20T17:52:00.000-07:00

I knew I'd have some difficulty with a new type of knit, but this just sucks. I finished two perfectly cute bear legs, and started knitting his body inside out. Unfortunately, all the pieces are connected, so basically, I have to start over from the legs, which COULD'VE been worse. So, I'm going to restart the body. Wish me luck.

Bear leg in progress

2009-03-19T16:50:00.001-07:00

Bear leg in progress
Originally uploaded by drxgirlfriend

My first attempt at knitting on DPN (double pointed needles) is going surprisingly well! Only had to start over three times, within the first row! I'm knitting a bear. I'm thinking I will knit a sweater for this bear after he's complete. I have plans for him, but most of it will be a surprise until the sweater is complete. Wish me luck!

Etsy! Finally.

2009-02-04T20:54:00.000-08:00

I finally started an Etsy store! xtine knits. My friend Arik is designing me a better banner for it, as I fail at computer design crap. Wish I didn't, but alas, it is the truth. So far I only have one item listed. The Sweetheart Scarf:

My newest project is a scarf that resembles a tube sock! So excited to finish that one up. Post more when I get more done.

Knitting soundtrack for this evening: Brett Anderson's Wilderness

Sackboy is complete!

2008-12-22T15:43:00.000-08:00

Just putting the final touches on him! Pretty easy since he's supposed to look homemade and the stitching details are requested to be uneven. He's really cute. I almost want to keep him, but alas, he is a gift. Plus, we don't really know each other. Had I played Little Big Planet, I'm sure I'd be more attached. Post pictures after he's delivered.

Up all night!

2008-12-22T03:54:00.000-08:00

I had NO idea how late it was because I was so into my Sackboy project. I have his head (with adorable face) and body stuffed and sewn together. Tomorrow I will attach his limbs and possibly complete him, which would be fantastic since I had tomorrow put aside for gift wrapping. Hooray!

OMFG. A Dr.Girlfriend illusion scarf?!

2008-12-17T11:22:00.000-08:00

AHHH! I woke up this morning to a delightful little link of an email from Shine! Someone has actually made a pattern for a Dr.Girlfriend illusion scarf. MUST BE MINE. It's not available yet, but I cannot wait to start it! YAY! I haven't been this excited for a knitting project since I started Soulbot!

Sackboy now has a head!

2008-12-17T02:38:00.000-08:00

Well, it's been knitted. It still needs eyes and a little yarn smile and you know, a body. Maybe some stuffing. Whatever, he's making progress! My fingers are so sore from working on tiny needles (those tips hurt!) and my elbows are not used to such strain. However I am happy with how it's coming along, and I really hope that didn't just jinx me.

Tiny Sackboy Body.

2008-12-14T17:42:00.001-08:00

Tiny body.
Originally uploaded by drxgirlfriend

This little guy is going to be tiny, it's so cute! Anyway, the pattern that I had to track down from a british knitting magazine reader, is actually flawed. The cast on stitches (12) and the first increase row instructions do not add up. I had to adjust it according, increasing six stitches per increase row the way I saw fit: and the beginning of the row and at the end. I just ate half a medium pizza by myself so my stomach is stuffed to the brim, but that is neither here nor there.

What the HELL?!

2008-12-14T14:33:00.000-08:00

This is becoming ridiculous! First off, I'm not even sure knitting this thing is worth it, speaking finding sack colored yarn is near impossible, but now that i've managed to do my best color match, which who knows is even up to par to expectations, the zipper is too long, but I think since it's not actually being used, just decoration, I can cut and glue shut. We'll see. The big thing that is pissing me off right now (other than thinking this is SO NOT WORTH ANYTHING) is that my magic little shiny bag full of tiny scissors, pins, and my ROW COUNTER is missing! I JUST saw it Friday night when I was cleaning and I remember putting it away with all the rest of my knitting shit, but when I came home to get it, GONE. Is this a sign? All this bullshit is telling me to BURN all the yarn I just bought and go back to that silly crochet scarf for grandma.

EDIT: Found it. It was where I left it, just forgot I put it at the back corner of the bin.

Sackboy? More like sackBITCH!

2008-12-12T22:25:00.000-08:00

Okay, I haven't even started knitting this fucker and he's already a headache. I had to snag two plastic drinking straws from the E-bar when I got my daily treat, and then finding the correct gauge of yarn for this fucker was NEAR IMPOSSIBLE, so I got the closest color/gauge I could find. I tried calling Shinerz, but she was too drunk and high to really comprehend what I was saying. Still love you, though! :) Couldn't find a 4in metal zipper, so I have to try JoAnn's tomorrow before work. The easiest part, the button eyes. I don't think I have the desire to start this guy tonight.

Sackboy

2008-12-11T12:25:00.000-08:00

A friend has asked me to knit him this character from the video game Little Big Planet. After just a little over a day, I've managed to persuade this awfully sweet British mum to send it my way. I just got it today, and the British terms are adorable. Anyway, I'll probably start knitting it Friday night. I'm pretty excited, though it looks a little intricate. I deserve a challenge.

This Bitch Can Crochet.

2008-12-09T00:13:00.000-08:00

Yep, taught myself how last week. It's okay. The first attempt at a scarf started kinda uneven, but it'll even out I think. At least enough for my grandmother to approve and treasure it. I prefer knitting tenfold. I think the stitches are more precise and lovely than the knots in crochet work. It's just my preference. I'll post pictures, you know, when I get around to it.

I still knit, thanks.

2008-11-12T22:22:00.000-08:00

I've just been working on minor projects these days. Using up some yarn and making whatever.

Making Saucy Fast

2008-07-16T23:34:00.001-07:00

IMG_3389
Originally uploaded by drxgirlfriend

I've been doing really well with this tote! I was on FIRE, knitting it like crazy, and then my morale slowed to a hault, and I haven't worked on it in two days, and it's SO close to being finished! Just need to mattress stitch the pieces together.

I'm really happy with the fabric I chose for the inside. I'm really happy with the piece in general, though I feel like I should've made the knit bigger, to fit the plastic canvas better. Whatever. It looks fantastic.

I'm On A Roll!

2008-07-10T22:53:00.001-07:00

IMG_3387
Originally uploaded by drxgirlfriend

I just moved from the Desert to Mission Viejo, and I have no social life. Not that I had much of one back there, but now, really, there is only three or four people around here I can hang out with. It's sad. Which gives me more time to knit! Which is actually great, because I love it. LOVE it! So much, that after dinner, I whisked myself over to Michael's (the local yarn shops I looked up closed at 5) and found a big skein of this dark green yarn on clearance for $2. I actually found the yarn after I had found the cameo which called out to me from a rack as I was leaving the store empty-handed. I had brought one of my new knitting books (Stitch N Bitch Nation) and thumbed through it, looking for a pattern where I could use this amazing piece of charm as a button. I found hope in the Saucy Tote pattern, which is original pink and green. Eff that! I hope to line to bag with a really nice creme and gold patterned fabric, if I can find such a thing. I'm really excited! So far, it seems pretty easy!

The hardest part so far was making sure I didn't twist the needle. Circular needles are such a bitch for the first few rows!

So, I knit in the round until it measures 8.5 inches, so I'm going to get on that now.

FINISHED!

2008-07-10T15:33:00.001-07:00

IMG_3386
Originally uploaded by drxgirlfriend

Soulbot is complete. Finally. Three more little strands to sew in and it's on it's way to it's owner. I'm just it's maker.

How fucking badass is that? I hope fucking moochers don't try to steal it.

Collar!

2008-07-09T16:44:00.001-07:00

IMG_3365
Originally uploaded by drxgirlfriend

So, after the collar is finished (in the three rounds), my Soulbot sweater will be complete! FINALLY. Took me about seven months, but whatever! It's great! I'm proud of myself, that's for sure.

I'm already starting to think about what to make next. However, I have a lot of stashed yarn so I better work with that before buying more. Yep. Sucks.

Getting My Hands Dirty

2008-06-11T11:44:00.000-07:00

I have one last seam to sew on the soulbot sweater, and then, pictures. Promise. However, whilst going about my typical Venture Bros. watching, I was inspired to try and create my very own Magic Murder Bag. So, there you go: My next project will be designed, created and mastered by me. It will be my first attempt at making my own structural pattern. Wish me luck!

No Need to Block

2008-06-10T14:10:00.000-07:00

After looking at the sweater, I've decided the best route would be to sew the seams first and THEN block. It makes more sense to me and just because the books says to block first, doesn't mean I have to. So far one sleeve is completely seamed as well as one side. Almost done. And then the collar. And then the moment of truth. This blog is boring without pictures. I promise. Soon.

90% Done!

2008-05-22T23:45:00.000-07:00

I know, I was gone for a bit. Maybe I was depressed with my blog layout not being more awesome, or maybe it had something to do with the slow progress. All pieces (minus the collar) are complete. I will start blocking after the weekend. I will sew the seams and finish the collar and yes, Soulbot Sweater will be complete.

I will post pictures of my first blocking experience, of course. Expect that to come soon.

Black Sleeves, Obviously!

2008-03-07T12:44:00.000-08:00

I finished a sleeve yeserday. A fully knitted grey sleeve! And then I thought about it after a conversation, and decided the sleeves would look a lot nicer if they were black. With a black collar. So I have a useless grey sleeve.

This sweater was supposed to be done over a month ago. Shit.

Techniques for Knits and Purls

2008-03-05T16:32:00.000-08:00

I taught myself to knit from a book. For the most part anyway. There was a time I knitted a wristband with the help of a friend Melissa, who I have not seen in easily five years. When I learned from this book, I skipped that whole part about knitting while holding your yarn. I don't at all. I drop it and pick it up every stitch. I'm sure a lot of you are thinking "that is SO lame" but for me, there was no other way to do it. This also goes with how I knit and purl.

I was showing my friend Debbie a knit and a purl stitch one day, when Angie (my roomie) noticed that I pull my yarn and knit it differently from her. I never really gave it much thought, there are tons of different techniques to achieve the same stitch, but today when I was watching videos online at http://www.knittinghelp.com, I noticed the different way to knit and purl. So I tried it. And I can't help but wonder which one is better. I'm still working on that sweater sleeve, so I did about four rows with the "new" technique and noticed the stitches looked a bit cleaner (that's my way of saying you can see them better in the wool yarn), but not by much.

I think I'm going to just finish the sleeves the way I knitted the rest of the sweater and knit my next project with the new technique. I'll let you know how it goes.

Coming Along Nicely...

2008-02-25T16:50:00.001-08:00

The worst part about knitting an image into a pattern is that it takes a lot out of me. I'm concentrating much harder than a basic knit requires and I find myself tugging too hard and the image gets a bit fuzzy on the sides. I just hate how human knitting can be. How flawed. But at the same time, I love to knit. It's one of my favorite things to do.

So that's why it took me so long with Soulbot. He was coming along nicely, but taking a lot of effort and I was getting to the point where I almost dreaded picking up my needles. He wasn't hard, he was just tedious and time consuming. It took a lot longer than I had hoped, but the front of the sweater is finished! I'm currently working on one of the sleeves, and after one more and a collar, he will be complete. Then he will be rushed to his owner and hopefully he will be as loved and cherished as he is in my hands. Possibly more.

Someone suggested to me that I sell or release my image patterns for Fair Isle/Intarsia knitting. I would be so disgusted if someone wanted to knit this piece. Not because it's a terrible one, or that I'd be jealous of someone stealing my thunder, but because the love and time I put into this is worth much more to me than being recognized for it. I'm half regretting posting pictures of it, but I am so proud. And I want to remember just how long it took and how funny all the pieces were before they were sewn together. It won't be mine for much longer.

Soulbot legs DONE!

2008-01-24T13:03:00.001-08:00

Soulbot legs
Originally uploaded by drxgirlfriend

One thing I hate about working with a mid-row color change is how shitty stitches tend to look. Obviously from a fair distance, you can't even really tell, but I can and I hate! HATE! Hate ittt! How hard is it to make something perfect?! Obviously pretty hard.

I'm 78 rows in, not much further to go. I hope to finish it by the end of the weekend, get the sleeves done in two days, seam the last day and send it off for a marvelous birthday gift. Wish me lots and lots of luck!

The Difference Between Intarsia and Fair Isle is BEYOND Crucial...

2008-01-04T23:53:00.000-08:00

I am an idiot. Wait, no, I just failed at the front of my sweater because I never bothered to read the chapter on Fair Isle Knitting in my SnB Handbook. So, yeah, I guess you could consider my actions idiotic, but this doesn't happen too often. I'm learning my lesson.

So yes, as you must have assumed, I have unraveled the front to start fresh, meaning I lost three days of knitting. This sweater MUST be done by the end of the month, and it's already the fourth! I have to finish sleeves, and sew seams, and make an attempt at BLOCKING! I have to buy fancy wool wash and write a card! Good thing I don't work tomorrow so I can stay up until five making up for lost work. Oh wait, I do have that tattoo appointment tomorrow. Well, Heather won't mind if I take a nap during it.

WARNING! Intarsia in progress...

2008-01-04T11:32:00.001-08:00

soulbot in progress
Originally uploaded by drxgirlfriend

This is my workspace: my bed. Pay no attention to the Little Mermaid fleece throw: it was extra cold last night and it's the only extra blankie I had! Don't judge me! You can't see all the bobbins, they're underneath the sweater front, but trust me, it's a jumbled mess. It's such a hassle I can't even bring it to work! That means it's going to take me longer to get it finished, and I want it done in LESS THAN A MONTH!

All I can think about is knitting this thing. Work will be super long and boring today!

Back is DONE!

2008-01-03T11:53:00.000-08:00

I finished the back of my beloved grey sweater a few days ago, and plan to start the actual intarsia pattern tonight after work. How sad is it that I have no social life because I'd rather be knitting? True story, two seperate parties invited me out last night and I said no to both so I could start the front of the sweater, knowing that I could get the bottom done, work some stockinette at work the next day and be ready to start Soulbot when I got home. Regardless, I love it and plan to never give it up.

I think I want to learn crotchet, mostly because I found some pretty cute patterns that I want to make. However, I still feel the need to learn more about knitting rather than just pick something else up as well. I'd like to be an expert in one trade, rather than so-so in two. I really need to tackle DPNs, so I think after I finish this amazing sweater, I'll try to make some gloves or something.

I'll post pictures of my progress tomorrow, or after I get some of the intarsia in. Pictures right now would be somewhat boring.

Sweater In Progress and Circle in Construction

2007-12-30T14:11:00.001-08:00

Sweater In Progress
Originally uploaded by drxgirlfriend

The custom made sweater is coming along nicely. I'm working on the back first, in case you're wondering where the intarsia pattern is. I don't wan't to torture myself right off the bat.

Last night I went to this house warming get together where I met this pleasant girl named Crystal who is super crafty. We have decided to make a craft circle (including our dear friend Monika) at least once a week where we can all sit around and be creative while maintaining a semi-decent social life. It's nice to finally meet people who have similar interests and disinterests. I hope this last longer than two weeks.

Scarf into doiley.

2007-12-22T21:53:00.001-08:00

lace doiley
Originally uploaded by drxgirlfriend

So, the scarf I was knitting turned into a doiley. I just lost interest in it completely. I wanted to try lace just to learn it and notch my knitting master belt, and after a few inches, I felt like I got it. I really just want to start the sweater. I will do gauge swatches tomorrow!

I had my first knitting circle today with Angie and Debbie! It was really nice to finally do something like that! I hope we do that more often, though it may be hard since Debbie lives in SD. Bummer...

Ribbit.

2007-12-20T21:27:00.001-08:00

frogged
Originally uploaded by drxgirlfriend

My lace scarf for Gramma has been frogged. Yes, it's sad. But I intend to put off my relaxing shower tonight to start it all over again. I wanted this done by the 24th and with one full day wasted, I'm a bit panicked over whether or not I can actually do this. It's my first attempt at lace and I feel like an idiot. I catch on to knitting techniques really fast and this really upsets me. I should be able to master this! I'm bummed.

It makes me dread the double pointed needles I have yet to try. Yikes!

One down, One more to knit!

2007-12-20T13:57:00.001-08:00

heathers scarf
Originally uploaded by drxgirlfriend

I finally finished Heather's Skinny Gothy Black Cable Scarf! Woo! Now I'm going to start working on Gramma's purple lace scarf. I think she'd prefer red, but I really like this color purple. I'm sure she won't mind. I have FOUR days to finish it and I've already had to restart it TWICE. Sucks, but wish me lots of luck!

After her scarf is done and I get exact measurements taken care of, I'm going to try and design my first sweater. I've only made one once with a pattern in front of me, but due to bad gauging, it is too short. Now I'm going to punish myself with trying to create on from scratch. I must really hate myself.

Flickr

2007-12-20T13:53:00.001-08:00

This is a test post from , a fancy photo sharing thing.

Finally on Ravelry!

2007-12-10T17:09:00.000-08:00

I bring great news! I finally got my invitation to http://www.ravelry.com! Yes, my username is Drxgirlfriend, in case you had one too.

I've decided not to add projects I've already finished. Instead I'm going to add as I continue on my knitting adventures. I'm really excited!

My first blog...aw, how sweet!

2007-09-23T13:26:00.000-07:00

After searching for winter patterns all morning, I noticed there if a very active knitting community on blogger. So I joined, in hopes of finding people who can teach me more about my beloved yarn and needles. I'm also hoping ONE of them can help me find just a basic glove pattern! No cables, just plain stockinette! My 15 year old brother wants some, but he is disgusted by the "trendy" fingerless kind and thinks cables are too fancy. Kids are pains in the ass.

I've been knitting for just over a year. I'm still bad with gauges and doing test squares before starting an actual project. I've knitted various scarfs, some bags, a sweater and a few hats. In the next few months I plan to tackle shawls, more scarfs, another sweater, gloves, fingerless gloves and eventually a knitted bunny rabbit. Bunnies are so cute!

I have created only ONE pattern on my own and it was an Octopus. I doubt I'll ever realease it because the person I made it for, well, let's just say it's super special to me and I will never make another one for anyone else but me. I made a mini one for a gift, but i'm thinking making a HUGE one could be kind of cool, don't you think?

I already have another blog on LJ that I've had for over six years that I maintain for myself and a handful of close friends (mostly from school). I intend to use this one for knitting related adventures.