tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-135379112024-03-23T18:11:18.416+00:00One Ball Short of a Dye Lotscarletprincesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834643344877232931noreply@blogger.comBlogger122125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13537911.post-73673725277485648272009-06-11T15:30:00.006+00:002009-06-11T15:52:23.459+00:00piccys galoreRight.... I have a few FO pictures for you today. I have finished the bolero with a few modifications and I also have the blanket pictures though I finished the knitting of it before I went into hospital.<br /><br />Here is the finished bolero<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnPQqNnjyCm6gLM1kYdLDkVtoxZGv_6d97MBdipRl_EypsvlEK4pjcrcN_shNu9CKdn-AAzhtr0vlSJvc68kI-Q_wGIIvr5pUNxi6bVhJedPPxxK_atApm5xZVE9hm925H2eRZEw/s1600-h/bolerofin.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnPQqNnjyCm6gLM1kYdLDkVtoxZGv_6d97MBdipRl_EypsvlEK4pjcrcN_shNu9CKdn-AAzhtr0vlSJvc68kI-Q_wGIIvr5pUNxi6bVhJedPPxxK_atApm5xZVE9hm925H2eRZEw/s320/bolerofin.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346093338123049202" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />In the end I just couldn't face knitting a mile of garter edging and sewing it on. Also... the edging was supposed to produce a shawl collar but I thought it would be a right P.I.T.A. and not lie down so I decided to try crochet. This stitch is the shell stitch which I found after browsing through crochet bible the "Happy Hooker" by Debbie Stoller. I love this book and learnt the little crochet I can do from it. I'm hoping that eventually I'll be able to do more than edging or really simple stuff.<br /><br />This is a close-up of the edging.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9dGoA0l1D1ASDX9PwDZJ3Si14z88i-QK1ydsJxMqMogxkuq7YvCS31ccTNnI-2dG3PI93IOBe8XSWUVHDyUEX9VOS1ARTtJehqFCG0f49dhaImSeTjnwTZKWOkmfppnlQ2jZD8A/s1600-h/crochetshellegding.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9dGoA0l1D1ASDX9PwDZJ3Si14z88i-QK1ydsJxMqMogxkuq7YvCS31ccTNnI-2dG3PI93IOBe8XSWUVHDyUEX9VOS1ARTtJehqFCG0f49dhaImSeTjnwTZKWOkmfppnlQ2jZD8A/s320/crochetshellegding.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346094196429032338" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The crocheting itself wasn't hard but the calico is quite splitty and made it harder to hook those DCs.<br /><br />Here are the last of the blanket pictures.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBde6lrZv2yi1r6nbIh3KhEr2JTFSonw7OT-6S1e5sHheY6dU0OX09Ygp3p8hGb9xI8iJulsWOOljbn1elVoUDXVFg9T4YblNStn8dCPCb-7YVdV_8PQyepAMaDpwRLpz7lIT7XA/s1600-h/blanket+finished.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBde6lrZv2yi1r6nbIh3KhEr2JTFSonw7OT-6S1e5sHheY6dU0OX09Ygp3p8hGb9xI8iJulsWOOljbn1elVoUDXVFg9T4YblNStn8dCPCb-7YVdV_8PQyepAMaDpwRLpz7lIT7XA/s320/blanket+finished.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346094668131896882" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />This is the front of the blanket which I was super pleased with. I picked up around each finished edge in a different colour to tidy it up a bit but I wouldn't have had enough of one colour to do all the same. Still, I thinkit worked out ok.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh50v93h3zk7FRAcCMoSC261ivAaIrPMo9LYZpG6E0KI7Z6zdP0t2Y3av70c1hQQF2ZGkPlVMqZhOk5lVLPLv7dehrOzJwARYFAbvPipeCa7hqy9VavOF6cYLOJ0yn1GqKyo5zqFA/s1600-h/backblanket.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh50v93h3zk7FRAcCMoSC261ivAaIrPMo9LYZpG6E0KI7Z6zdP0t2Y3av70c1hQQF2ZGkPlVMqZhOk5lVLPLv7dehrOzJwARYFAbvPipeCa7hqy9VavOF6cYLOJ0yn1GqKyo5zqFA/s320/backblanket.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346094659914102594" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />However, this was what the back looked like after it had been sewn up. I have to sew things so they're indestructible so I didn't just tack the edges together, I used my usual method of sewing up which has a name I cannot remember. This left the back looking messy so I fixed it with....fleecy fabric. Or rather mum did ;o)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3wlNtOTLgFG-4fjxF9NbdkFq0vl1iw4lE-_pbPIZjpjJdCqQX2IdB39RTwOyuNLr_2gCeCngziH7eAQrhRoZ0FAFpA9VylrPoQWTeSny4j7op-KMfNtxkGClWCAK8SSfUjXw2Fw/s1600-h/blanket+back.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3wlNtOTLgFG-4fjxF9NbdkFq0vl1iw4lE-_pbPIZjpjJdCqQX2IdB39RTwOyuNLr_2gCeCngziH7eAQrhRoZ0FAFpA9VylrPoQWTeSny4j7op-KMfNtxkGClWCAK8SSfUjXw2Fw/s320/blanket+back.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346094661764972818" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Mum added the fabric on the back for me while I was in hospital bless her. Also, it means that Ava has a non-wool/alpaca surface against her skin while her skin is still dry and flaky from being so overdue. The Rooster Almerino is super soft but I can't have pure wool or animal fibre right next to my skin.<br /><br />Lastly, I have a gratituitous Ava pic since she's wearing something I knit while I was pregnant. I was super impressed with this cardi I made. Not because it was difficult but to have the sticking power to finish it in time. I get bored or just a short attention span and this was a lot of fiddling with hoods and bands etc.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwQbN1D7jej8WKx1awgcUhmntO90_HgYnau9n-EVo6zOlnhobYA5KRjMaM7fXh7KRb_PSb_wj-ev2IRC4qT3poNmQ5gcKLbV4N7MvqZusg8p49fuhegFtw4uOertsIWcRlIwq6JA/s1600-h/avacardi.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwQbN1D7jej8WKx1awgcUhmntO90_HgYnau9n-EVo6zOlnhobYA5KRjMaM7fXh7KRb_PSb_wj-ev2IRC4qT3poNmQ5gcKLbV4N7MvqZusg8p49fuhegFtw4uOertsIWcRlIwq6JA/s320/avacardi.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346096771223389762" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />This was knitted in Sirdar Kisses DK. It's acrylic but soooo soft. It's the softest acrylic yarn I've ever felt and it's a semi-solid colour. I made lots of minty-duck egg things this time around. When I was having Seth my "neutral" colour was yellow and I wanted a different unisex colour this time. The little suit she has on has some mint in it today so I put her this one on. I definately recommend this yarn for baby knits as it's machine washable and dryable and very very soft. It isn't often I rave about acrylic so make the most of it!<br /><br />I think thats all I have.... I'm amazed I got the bolero done in under a week, but to be honest it's not a big knit. The bolero is obviously a cropped pattern but nontheless it was 4ply and I don't usually knit that fine.<br /><br />Until next time,<br />xxxscarletprincesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834643344877232931noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13537911.post-9762609260432093652009-06-08T21:10:00.003+00:002009-06-08T21:33:51.420+00:00knitting frenzyWell I'm steaming along with my girlie projects for Ava. I started the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/baby-bolero-2">Debbie Bliss Baby Bolero</a> from Baby Cashmerino 2 in some sirdar calico. The calico is supposed to be DK but it's on the fine side and DB Baby Cashmerino is more sport weight than 4ply I've always thought so it's a pretty good substitute. The first size is 3-6 months so it's on the big side atm but since she's in 0-3 month clothes at 7 days old I doubt it will be too long before she will be able to wear it!<br /><br />I started this on Saturday and did the back... Sunday I made a front and a sleeve and today the second front. Tomorrow maybe I'll get the second sleeve done and then be able to do the bands. I think the bands will take the longest :o( They have to be knitted separately and sewn on. To me that's even worse than picking up around the edge.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQIBMtcPDkfxOiTNZ9gcniLDcFOpE6BRX45_WcIkhHFdErV-TEgpHAzq-2PvnUsXb2kbejA6xqtB4ehuVUcm8Z0w3n10p3OR3H0IDgX7lEHoNzH-ofFDXl5I9BPhodFWbXKqjQBw/s1600-h/bolero.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQIBMtcPDkfxOiTNZ9gcniLDcFOpE6BRX45_WcIkhHFdErV-TEgpHAzq-2PvnUsXb2kbejA6xqtB4ehuVUcm8Z0w3n10p3OR3H0IDgX7lEHoNzH-ofFDXl5I9BPhodFWbXKqjQBw/s320/bolero.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5345068781086202962" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />This was my progress at lunchtime. I've sewn the one side together before knitting the bands because the bands go from middle back up the front to the neck shaping before getting wider. The book says to sew the bands in before the sides and sleeve but I think that would be more confusing and harder to do the other sewing up later.<br /><br />If you guys are wondering <span style="font-weight: bold;">how </span>I'm getting chance to knit.... well not only have I not been sleeping that well but also when Seth's playing he's quite accomodating and lets me knit. I'm sure when I'm back to normal I'll have less time but I grab the opportunity when I can. Also, with baby knits they work up so fast so the gratification is so much more!<br /><br />Well I confess I've done something tonight I haven't done for about 10 months. I've had a drink. Not a lot though of course I'm a responsible mother and all... but I treated myself to a glass of Jacques fruit cider. I'm not breastfeeding so there is no danger of Ava being affected. With Dad doing the night feeding it's nice to be able to unwind. Or it would be if Seth hadn't decided he wanted to get out of bed 20 minutes ago so now we're all sitting on the bed while I blog.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeoDVOxgq8HHR4wRRs0GJ2ToPXYpAU1m3hySz7T_DgJ_S-f8ZkaTEdcTm5aGlcLuhhXc86qviDels9Z-wHFuCwsS8ygtlI0RksTsQ8qN6GrBAmQ8JDOV419130ktYMI3v_JUhQuA/s1600-h/momsethava.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeoDVOxgq8HHR4wRRs0GJ2ToPXYpAU1m3hySz7T_DgJ_S-f8ZkaTEdcTm5aGlcLuhhXc86qviDels9Z-wHFuCwsS8ygtlI0RksTsQ8qN6GrBAmQ8JDOV419130ktYMI3v_JUhQuA/s320/momsethava.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5345072938240542498" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Something tells me it wont be the relaxing night I'd hoped for!scarletprincesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834643344877232931noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13537911.post-26037107509979181962009-06-06T10:00:00.003+00:002009-06-06T10:08:38.426+00:00first project for AvaHi guys<br /><br />I decided to make so very simple mittens for Ava since she has monster hands and all the scratch mittens are either too small or fall off. Nothing fancy mind:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0YjFlm6fVv9nN_OUnR2nYTbYc9D4RQdDS0afF39Ww3arpO1wvDz4mW5Y8QoFYa8ei9t_ZVSFJ1_gw7sZblNIhj9UH_F6t-BA7tq-Y214a4uvbqQYy1krT2L8t_RQWUQMMdi50Aw/s1600-h/mittsforava.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0YjFlm6fVv9nN_OUnR2nYTbYc9D4RQdDS0afF39Ww3arpO1wvDz4mW5Y8QoFYa8ei9t_ZVSFJ1_gw7sZblNIhj9UH_F6t-BA7tq-Y214a4uvbqQYy1krT2L8t_RQWUQMMdi50Aw/s320/mittsforava.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344152731231233026" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I used koigu KPPPM on 3.25mm needles or any 4ply would do.<br /><br />The pattern I made up was:<br /><br />Cast on 32 stitches<br />8 rows k1 p1 rib<br />make an eyelet row: k2 yo k2tog across the row<br />20 rows stockinette<br />k2 k2tog across<br />purl<br />k2tog across<br />purl<br />k2tog across<br />purl<br />k3tog<br />fasten off<br />Sew side seam<br /><br />The tie was made using a small crocheting hook and making a long chain.<br /><br />.....or something to that effect.... ;o) of course this is easily adaptable by adding stitches at the beginning and rows to the length.<br /><br />If I could have been bothered to use dpns of course I wouldn't have had to sew a seam!<br /><br />And here's the cutie I made them for:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnJxPKFc9eS8s4UVKt2ImRm9xW2G5WW23dMr-XFsORODO54SqRthvAQFoXj-QVeq7iTiCaMzAILe5Xwdk1NzjZDKl2vZl0vpRApLFr7xKjX0GNEda7Nc-7VurR9aQgZAuSfVKrPw/s1600-h/ava+pretty.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnJxPKFc9eS8s4UVKt2ImRm9xW2G5WW23dMr-XFsORODO54SqRthvAQFoXj-QVeq7iTiCaMzAILe5Xwdk1NzjZDKl2vZl0vpRApLFr7xKjX0GNEda7Nc-7VurR9aQgZAuSfVKrPw/s320/ava+pretty.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344153875298850674" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />That's all folks for today xscarletprincesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834643344877232931noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13537911.post-80866212468550620912009-06-04T09:20:00.003+00:002009-06-04T09:33:04.123+00:00Ava Grace Wilkes 02/06/09 9lbsI'm just announcing the birth of my daughter Ava Grace :o)<br /><br />It was a traumatising few days in hospital so this is just a quick post until I'm back on my feet and the land of the living so to speak. We came home on Tuesday after I'd been in since Sunday.<br /><br />I'll hopefully be able to keep up with the knitting world once things have settled down a bit at home. With visitors and settling Seth and Ava together plus just getting used to a new routine ourselves I may be a bit sporadic in what I manage to keep up with!<br /><br />I'm taking part in the UKSwap too.... well I hope that my partners keep in mind that I'm around though a little preoccupied. I'm sure I'll be able to keep in touch though and find some nice goodies to spoil my downstream pal.<br /><br />Until the next post... here's just the odd picture.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfIVP8xdqZhPDHPcW4dmw9Dr3busE9QGbrfJA7s4R5ztXAuoDWFPWw1XDMoHvJ_dg0IdSqd-inu_NCcvPES0_nIrwSB2CuYUiNWOpjnBQuCyg-Z1lcIyEIIi1-2xKg6W78g-bEsg/s1600-h/DSCF2385.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfIVP8xdqZhPDHPcW4dmw9Dr3busE9QGbrfJA7s4R5ztXAuoDWFPWw1XDMoHvJ_dg0IdSqd-inu_NCcvPES0_nIrwSB2CuYUiNWOpjnBQuCyg-Z1lcIyEIIi1-2xKg6W78g-bEsg/s320/DSCF2385.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343402297890449602" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQFs5tpDVt-wO-uFpFfIBEczDeUd8S85VnmBVQ639yQKCFqgBkzjJPuatY2RUogELpAQuiT6Rhm8aN38TefvudFnveMfu5UxBxQlAAkR3FhJTBSyQ29GorwQSf7As6KAc14r107w/s1600-h/DSCF2383.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQFs5tpDVt-wO-uFpFfIBEczDeUd8S85VnmBVQ639yQKCFqgBkzjJPuatY2RUogELpAQuiT6Rhm8aN38TefvudFnveMfu5UxBxQlAAkR3FhJTBSyQ29GorwQSf7As6KAc14r107w/s320/DSCF2383.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343402294915028546" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKQyF-IBBcdjyji2UPXRxSZx5VCmjJfrt5OoHi9-d0zsXRdwc8QSyj-RXWKCA63xTZ7HUHjmZm5TyhQiAOe7IJUE0YY0zzHicDvjBMWE28WJSevGV5d6dBcs1xbcJfK8h3pEyCQw/s1600-h/DSCF2373.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKQyF-IBBcdjyji2UPXRxSZx5VCmjJfrt5OoHi9-d0zsXRdwc8QSyj-RXWKCA63xTZ7HUHjmZm5TyhQiAOe7IJUE0YY0zzHicDvjBMWE28WJSevGV5d6dBcs1xbcJfK8h3pEyCQw/s320/DSCF2373.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343402291784215218" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifTO-xDR-_z9ZP38hGuRlGvjoifeoizckk9JVlpGJYi4PD34IrWrPm5K5NpeiTNV4xD1N_Mfy0mgljQJVMmD_CjJ-RsoWCho5SNIgWdRrVuWKsWe2iR14juE9A1Ied1ckNDpRAsw/s1600-h/DSCF2370.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifTO-xDR-_z9ZP38hGuRlGvjoifeoizckk9JVlpGJYi4PD34IrWrPm5K5NpeiTNV4xD1N_Mfy0mgljQJVMmD_CjJ-RsoWCho5SNIgWdRrVuWKsWe2iR14juE9A1Ied1ckNDpRAsw/s320/DSCF2370.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343402284419196402" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUjoetun2sqRCnLv4A5mW-vVDRztkLmBWB6ZhlEfGF2VCXH70XZfaZ1DtHmHLZEoPLvNsQ2HMEMASx1LVkkUXN8TT8IRUkG6fFOiYEfyoOtAcAhTiQE2u3JmvTDUr_p-ptQhimeQ/s1600-h/DSCF2367.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUjoetun2sqRCnLv4A5mW-vVDRztkLmBWB6ZhlEfGF2VCXH70XZfaZ1DtHmHLZEoPLvNsQ2HMEMASx1LVkkUXN8TT8IRUkG6fFOiYEfyoOtAcAhTiQE2u3JmvTDUr_p-ptQhimeQ/s320/DSCF2367.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343402277945833922" border="0" /></a>scarletprincesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834643344877232931noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13537911.post-84507419105116851692009-05-26T21:20:00.003+00:002009-05-26T21:42:47.953+00:00Blanket update onlyHi guys!<br /><br />Just thought I'd give a knitting update.... no baby to introduce you to yet.<br /><br />Here is what I have of the blanket so far. I only have 2 squares left to knit so it's nearly done. I took a small break from this due to ravelry corruption.... too many patterns inspire me to just carry on with a main project!<br />These pictures turned out a bit pinky.... the 'medium' red is more orange in real life so it does look uber-girly-fied here.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyFb9EBxZmpN5nS05YIDtgk69WaiUM1xtrjczRPTG3Pz5xNAmVc8NRiuptsOJMT0Hx0nEHq4gRWEFd6h-U-BRhAM3V4-fZRBhRFdZWAdnkXgYfMzXcpihZvNpyAM4WQKDLAlWGuQ/s1600-h/square1.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 314px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyFb9EBxZmpN5nS05YIDtgk69WaiUM1xtrjczRPTG3Pz5xNAmVc8NRiuptsOJMT0Hx0nEHq4gRWEFd6h-U-BRhAM3V4-fZRBhRFdZWAdnkXgYfMzXcpihZvNpyAM4WQKDLAlWGuQ/s320/square1.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340246900785474098" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The colours are as follows: Gooseberry, custard (now discontinued I think), rooster, cornish, brighton rock, cherry (plus gooseberry again).<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0x3TtvuHd3iM21Uj5aXZcOXzzHQxubIyVONcbcYQvBelfdiHjl_IybTGxtls7C1_j72EqLLsSGWqBYvSoh1Rvr5cClP8Yd9ODcYvurpKxJ6X0iTF9lQYB-C_XqoQ_M75u1IK8zA/s1600-h/square2.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 294px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0x3TtvuHd3iM21Uj5aXZcOXzzHQxubIyVONcbcYQvBelfdiHjl_IybTGxtls7C1_j72EqLLsSGWqBYvSoh1Rvr5cClP8Yd9ODcYvurpKxJ6X0iTF9lQYB-C_XqoQ_M75u1IK8zA/s320/square2.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340246907903321634" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />It's strange how the lighting makes things so different. The 'rooster' red looks all wrong here... you can see a slightly more accurate colour <a href="http://www.laughinghens.com/knitting-wool-yarn.asp?yarnid=374">here</a>.<br /><br />Here is the 8 squares already sewn together.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTXDLXzsR91vBS4vUZkaW1O0CAc75BB7-CCVdLHpimLT4vt6WnUVDAJfifyRISYStwnMDlElLknRkpaWqVEnOTqBCOaK3ZZWPpIODwETNTWAiIM4pP3iGgmJbW19gFhqa556zCMA/s1600-h/square3.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 205px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTXDLXzsR91vBS4vUZkaW1O0CAc75BB7-CCVdLHpimLT4vt6WnUVDAJfifyRISYStwnMDlElLknRkpaWqVEnOTqBCOaK3ZZWPpIODwETNTWAiIM4pP3iGgmJbW19gFhqa556zCMA/s320/square3.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340246911994081266" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I like the scheme but I guess it wont be very boyish.... I changed my mind a few times but who says boys can't have a blanket with pink on.... if it were blue a girl could still use it right? Ah well... maybe it's wishful thinking ;o)<br /><br />Well there is a little bit of baby news, but it isn't mine! My friend from work phoned and told me she'd gone for her mid-trimester scan and she's having a girl... which means I can knit frilly pink things! That was the only downside to us not knowing. I have had to as plain and neutral as possible with things I have bought or made, but the surprise will be worth it.... when it gets here! I really liked <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/kaia-babydoll">this pattern</a> that someone had knitted on on the ravlery 'babycakes' forum. I was going to wait and see what we have before knitting anything girly, but I have an excuse now and if we have a girl I can always make another! Hurrah!<br /><br />Well, goodnight folks I'm going to stretch out on the bed and attempt to sleep!scarletprincesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834643344877232931noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13537911.post-58630017626393811812009-05-22T19:31:00.005+00:002009-05-22T19:47:24.254+00:00No news isn't always good newsOk..... so now the baby is late.<br /><br />I went to see the midwife on Wednesday and she booked me in for a membrane sweep for next thursday if nothing has happened by then. I had to have one with Seth and it got things going, but those who know what it is or have had one will understand why I cringe at the thought! Hopefully things will move along before then but as of today he/she is a day late. I'm not amused! Worst case scenario is even the sweep does nothing and I have to go into hospital and through labour induction next saturday. Please people pray for me while you knit for a nice spontaneous and quickly resolved labour.... like in the next five minutes, or an hour... just let me make sure I have time to pack the camera and chocolate!<br /><br />On a more cheery note, the Green Thumb mittens are finished :o) Sheer miracle that I've completed them in 3 days and on dpns too. I'm going to attempt to configure a ribby scarf and hat to match using the leaf motif. I'm thinking that a scarf is no problem really, but the beanie hat- well a bit ambitious but I'll give it a go. It would make a great gift set for someone or even for myself. I'm still deciding!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqdb2hM5qNb13SFhnKE9vuhgRWjUvhmF01G7gIX17De4GhTY_E18ITpVFDVzhg27tUMbXNBwRZ8OLgRCpc4aEdCYCee5nNn5pKZY-SPlU9wx_Q0K9Qt4-Q3nEcqQwrTWGm9gL1sA/s1600-h/greenthum4.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqdb2hM5qNb13SFhnKE9vuhgRWjUvhmF01G7gIX17De4GhTY_E18ITpVFDVzhg27tUMbXNBwRZ8OLgRCpc4aEdCYCee5nNn5pKZY-SPlU9wx_Q0K9Qt4-Q3nEcqQwrTWGm9gL1sA/s320/greenthum4.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5338735860071073090" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Im rather pleased with them and now Dan wants a non leafy pair in a manly but boring grey/blue/black. Hmmm for someone that doesn't "see the the point of knitting" he sure gets me to make him a few things like fingerless mitts while he's on the pc or an ipod cover ;o)<br /><br />Hopefully I'll have more exciting news next time I blog. xscarletprincesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834643344877232931noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13537911.post-55585990239377059232009-05-19T18:35:00.003+00:002009-05-19T19:05:44.694+00:00Something new (and not the baby)Hey folks!<br /><br />Just a note before I carry on... no baby not here :o(<br /><br />However, I've been knitting on a new project which I literally cast on after seeing the pattern yesterday on Ravelry.<br /><br />Here is the 1st of the Green Thumb mitts (details on my ravelry projects page)<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtP3I9QYaIG-xkCSJQ1_GeAMydG0ZtzJDJdUZWrchX3uvB3QxbIk7Aox6nONz1eMd5WBIzMhpHudXS1d2gegKO0iHIrq5adzX7PsLuXgRNA4F29VxJ9DZG6dvLHwJV43xf2yMw2w/s1600-h/greenthumb3.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 155px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtP3I9QYaIG-xkCSJQ1_GeAMydG0ZtzJDJdUZWrchX3uvB3QxbIk7Aox6nONz1eMd5WBIzMhpHudXS1d2gegKO0iHIrq5adzX7PsLuXgRNA4F29VxJ9DZG6dvLHwJV43xf2yMw2w/s320/greenthumb3.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337606008017876466" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">looks kinda squashed when not on</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzLbxXklnLo-MXFUE4n2Yl78yxVZs74OP6FrFHFjU92aPDuGySYFbvqPZ5AAoKiW6fmCUU5TFtPsrQTXWW8MOUPP-591yuhGILrjl6Q2JaeKpRvvXfsb3habXYRjU72j9Uk5mx6A/s1600-h/greenthumb1.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 238px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzLbxXklnLo-MXFUE4n2Yl78yxVZs74OP6FrFHFjU92aPDuGySYFbvqPZ5AAoKiW6fmCUU5TFtPsrQTXWW8MOUPP-591yuhGILrjl6Q2JaeKpRvvXfsb3habXYRjU72j9Uk5mx6A/s320/greenthumb1.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337605998665039202" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">stretched out on my hand but still very roomy</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6mtnO1loGTH-7H941RBj-FhEUWEjxNnl9PqLitRg3rxUyOXz-lcWMMweVctd-uLzgBXBiSDmM-IoMHFuT34J-WPXBmE4kdt4cdw6Y1exVQ4xJmJf306QMEms_boDVFv4ell-jJA/s1600-h/greenthumb2.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 221px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6mtnO1loGTH-7H941RBj-FhEUWEjxNnl9PqLitRg3rxUyOXz-lcWMMweVctd-uLzgBXBiSDmM-IoMHFuT34J-WPXBmE4kdt4cdw6Y1exVQ4xJmJf306QMEms_boDVFv4ell-jJA/s320/greenthumb2.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337608512499517730" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">leaf detail on the thumb gusset</span><br /><br />The pics aren't great I know as they have been done by my phone. I had to email them from my phone to my hotmail before saving and editing them on the computer. That said, it only took a matter of minutes. Who needs camera cables?! ( me obviously)<br /><br />I'm really pleased with how the first one has turned out. I have been knitting avidly throughout the day- a couple of hours here and there while Seth has been playing or napping and voila! A finished mitten in less than 12 hours. For those who are extremely prolific knitters, I know this is no biggie, but I'm not much of a sock/mitten knitter so for me to achieve this on dpns is quite a feat for me.<br /><br />I couldn't find my 3.25mm dpns that the pattern calls for which is a shame as I reckon that would have made them a perfect fit. I cast on with 2.75mm but after a few rows I could tell they were way too small so I had to go with 3.5mm clover bamboo dpns. They knit up a dream and I reckon anyone with average hands would find them perfect. I've got quite small hands and wrists so they're a little roomy but that said they aren't too big so I'm going to keep them! I thought that if they came up way too big I'd gift them out but I'm smitten with my mittens!<br /><br />Apart from that, not a lot else has happened today. I've been particularly lazy other than having a bath so can't really complain. I've got to go to ante-natal at the docs tomo for the average blood pressure/wee/blah blah check so I've got to be up and motivated tomorrow. Not easy when walking is excruciating but I'm sure I'll be able to get dad to come fetch me and Seth. Of course, thats if I don't miraculously give birth between then and now!<br /><br />xscarletprincesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834643344877232931noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13537911.post-74521333067639574292009-05-17T21:08:00.003+00:002009-05-17T21:28:02.284+00:00fingers crossed pleaseHi guys!<br /><br />Thought I'd say hi again while I have the chance and a huge thanks to those who said hi and left such supportive comments.<br /><br />I've been inseparable from my laptop for hours at a time at night now it's fixed and getting to grips with whos going what etc. Also... thanks to DB I may add.... I've been stupidly addicted to a game he showed me. I should put my fingers in my ears and screw up my eyes when he does that, coz I know I'll end up playing silly games and wonder where 4 hours went ;o). To those who have ever heard of "<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puzzle_Quest">Puzzle Quest</a>" maybe they'll understand?<br /><br />On the knitting front.... er well the afore mentioned game has thwarted progress a bit but I'm finishing up on block 9 of 12 of the Debbie Bliss <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/33-l-blocks-blanket">mitred square blanket</a>. The first 8 are sewn into place too which I'm proud of btw. I thought that if I left all the sewing until last then there would be no way I'd finish it as those who know me know I hate the sewing up. Strangely enough though it was nice and refreshing to have a balance of knitting and sewing up and have done it in strips of 4 together then joined 2 strips together in one go.<br /><br />As part of getting ready for the baby, DB and I have had to do some major spring cleaning. To make room for the huge cot bed in our room, now that Seth has a big bed, we had to sort out wardrobes and drawers and all sorts of things. Now the fact that most of my wool storage is actually my wardrobe as well as alongside the wardrobes meant he actually saw the extent of the hoardage. Oh Dear! I was very ruthless though and chucked a lot of stuff out. I also found about 30 pairs of knitting needles that had been used for a project and not returned to the needle rolls so I have far far more needles that I imagined since I usually just buy another pair of I can't find what I'm looking for. I must have at least 10 pairs of 4mm needles I'm sure!<br /><br />Well..... the baby is obviously still cooking and showing no signs of entering the outside world so of course I'm still fed up and grumpy. However, I guess it's better than being too early and then being sick though my hips, ribs and back have a hard time seeing it that way!<br /><br />I'll be back with news soon hopefully. It'd better be soon.....<br /><br />xxxscarletprincesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834643344877232931noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13537911.post-79660079820864659612009-05-14T17:27:00.003+00:002009-05-14T17:44:43.081+00:00Back in the land of the internetHi guys!<br /><br />I've been offline for sooo long but now I have me laptop working again and thought I'd better just grace yourselves with a really quick update.<br /><br />So far I'm now on maternity leave after having 8 weeks sick leave due to a number of pregancy complications. Thankfully the baby is doing fine and I have a week exactly to the due date. I'm praying every five minutes that I'll go into labour! At 26 weeks I was told I had Symphis Pubis Dystonia, or SPD for short, which basically means that the ligaments that hold the pubic bone into place are weakened and pressure on the pubic bone basically gives you the most excruciating pain. The 'treatment' for this is not to walk or stand for long periods of time and also long periods of sitting can make it worse too. Ergo..... I had to have 8 weeks as sick leave, a couple weeks of annual leave and started my maternity leave at 36 weeks. So far I've also managed to put my back out so I can't walk very far without a walking stick at the moment :o(<br /><br />The good news though at the 36 week scan was that the placenta wasn't low lying anymore and I didn't have to be booked in for a planned c-section. However, they did say that the baby was already about 6.5 lbs....EEEK! No wonder I'm absolutely huge and have so much pain. With the baby putting on roughly a pound a week I could have a huge baby that has to come out naturally!<br /><br />That's pretty much it.... on the knitting front I've made a few baby cardis, finished off an old project or two and I'm currently 2/3 way through a baby blanket. I'm making a mitred square blanket that's a Debbie Bliss pattern. I've used Rooster Almerino Aran which is lovely and soft though not machine washable. I'll get around to pictures and stuff when I've found my camera leads and such again!<br /><br />I've had a quick scan through the odd blog or two and hope to catch up on what everyone is doing over the next few weeks.... baby and Seth permitting! I'm also thinking of joining the latest UKSwap too which might me a bit optimistic since I'll have a newborn soon, but I think it will give me something other that babies and washing to think about which is vital when I have a very limited choice of people to talk to right now! I don't miss work for the work itself, but it's horrible not knowing the gossip and having adult conversation that goes further than what's for tea or what episode of Thomas the Tank Engine Seth wants to watch!<br /><br /><br />Hope to update soon<br />love Fi xxxscarletprincesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834643344877232931noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13537911.post-18572762093151286942008-12-03T20:30:00.002+00:002008-12-03T20:41:28.119+00:00I'm still hereHi folks!<br /><br />I know I haven't blogged for months but I suppose life has really taken it out of me. That doesn't mean I'm not following online, just don't have the will to participate at the moment much.<br />It's still inspiring to see what you guys are making though. My attention span is a little short at the moment and I need to sleep a lot so actual "me" time is not that common.<br /><br />For those playing catch up.......<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimxx423slg9PQvkZREQUkDylCjsTMjBwD8T-UqGFC4Ffc83FX_rXkrApU-2ZpHcPjQQsrt1YvEiWXQTKi5FfinLO4TX9OTMWGT2pq3jzBFBY9epP8jHZ3vUlRIcd0y5LqAYGfQDQ/s1600-h/4343.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimxx423slg9PQvkZREQUkDylCjsTMjBwD8T-UqGFC4Ffc83FX_rXkrApU-2ZpHcPjQQsrt1YvEiWXQTKi5FfinLO4TX9OTMWGT2pq3jzBFBY9epP8jHZ3vUlRIcd0y5LqAYGfQDQ/s320/4343.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275664943910353426" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />This little bean is the reason why! This was done 3 weeks ago and was dated at 13weeks. Which makes me 16 weeks tomorrow and my delivery date as the 21st May. Hoorah!<br /><br />Things are getting slowly easier, I'm hoping the good hormones will kick in over the next few weeks so I can take on a bit of glow and have some energy back.<br /><br />Once I get myself more together creatively I'll do a post worthy of knitting attention ;o). Mostly though I've been spinning here and there which I've found more therapeutic. I made some great fingerless mittens that lace up from my handspun which willbe gifted to my sister. Once I get the ribbon for them I'll photograph em and put em up.<br /><br />And now it's bed time.....<br /><br />xxxscarletprincesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834643344877232931noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13537911.post-46545372063866999232008-09-13T20:25:00.004+00:002008-09-14T09:32:59.089+00:00Swap Parcel updateI managed to retrieve my <a href="http://ukswap.blogspot.com/">UKSwap</a> parcel today from the depths of the Royal Mail postal depot and was utterly thrilled to see the contents. My swap partner was <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/people/flapjack">flapjack</a> (ravelry name)- thankyou so much!!!! I cannot believe that you got me things I just love!<br /><br />This is the entire parcel here:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3197/2854296682_2c87dfd212.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3197/2854296682_2c87dfd212.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />As you can see there's chocolate, silk garden sock yarn, a 'lightning' plant, needle felted hedgehog, baby alpaca fibre a charm made from microscope slides and my theme pic and.... a ball winder- Something I've harped on about wanting forever! How generous is Helen?!!!<br /><br />Here's a few close up pics... I was tired last night so they're taken while I'm actually in bed. LOL<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3192/2853469905_a0526c1f39.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3192/2853469905_a0526c1f39.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Here's the baby alpaca fibre- something I haven't tried to spin on it's own before but my god is it scrummy!!!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3257/2854300620_91830c6247.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3257/2854300620_91830c6247.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />This 'lightning' plant is a carnivorous plant! My DB had been wanting something like this for ages... boys and morbid curiosity ya know how it is! So I said if he wanted to grow it then I'd let him. It's also something to do with me being rubbish with plants ;o)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3018/2853463415_d9388d240e_m.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3018/2853463415_d9388d240e_m.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />This is the needle felted hedgehog which is just darn cute! He's very sheepy smalling so I think he was from natural fleece.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3140/2854302858_c2211afc13.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3140/2854302858_c2211afc13.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />This is the noro silk garden sock yarn. This is so lovely. I'm not a sock gal but it's pretty enough to make something else with. I'm in baby knitting mode at the moment as my brother in law's sister (you get that?) is almost 20 weeks now. I think she's going to ask the sex of the baby so if it's a girl this would be ideal for some of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/saartjes-bootees">these bootees</a> or these <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/mary-jane-saartjes">mary jane</a> style ones- Just. So. Cute.<br /><br />Here's just a few things I've been spinning up lately. I've finished the 'Sexy' fibre batts which are here:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3291/2853456875_88b1d80acb_m.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3291/2853456875_88b1d80acb_m.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />It's basically pink sparkle, black slippery stuff I assume to be nylon-y or silk, pink and red wool. I'm terrible at deciding what is which fibre, but I'm getting better I think. This is very thick and thin as there are neps in the batt so it's sort of worsted weight but variable!<br /><br />Here is something I've started:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3036/2854294092_c67408bbb0_m.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3036/2854294092_c67408bbb0_m.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />This is alpaca, silk and merino. No sparkle in this one. It is so gorgeous and soft though- I think the brown is alpaca as it's quite lofty and got a halo to it, the pink I think is merino and the creamy white is the silk. I've aimed to get this about sportweight and I have two more batts of this so hopefully enough for a scarfy project or mittens.<br /><br />Due to unexpected fibre stash enhancement I also have started a little of the baby alpaca to see how it spins up:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3031/2854307160_ebbacb8718.jpg?v=0"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3031/2854307160_ebbacb8718.jpg?v=0" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Again, I'm aiming for sportweight/4ply to get the most I can out of it. I'm not normally an 'orange' person but I totally love this . The alpaca is not that hard to spin and it's so fluffy. In fact I bought another orangey batt (shhh DB thinks it was a present) which is rusty orange, browns and foresty green.<br /><br />Oh.... I do have some news. It's totally fresh up to date news which is a novelty where I'm concerned. I found out on friday that I'm pregnant. Only 5 weeks. It's not even official as far sa going to the doctors and stuff like that, so I haven't told anyone in my family. DB is a bit reluctant to say the least- while he'd never say to not have the baby I think he would have wanted to wait a while longer and is going to take some time to come to terms with things. I'm excited but wary- I want him to want the baby so I'll look after myself as best I can in the mean time and when he's ok with things (or at least says the word baby as he hasn't yet) I'll talk to our family. I'm going to try and get to the doctors this week because they have to take a urine sample and send it off (like anyone is silly enough to lie about being pregnant). I really want to tell people as I'm the worlds worst secret keeper but I would understand him being upset if I told people before he's ready. It throws more spanners in the works but I've wanted another baby for ages whether it's practical or not!<br /><br />Well, best go and eat something... my tummy is growling for food. I just cannot eat as soon as I get up and I tend to leave it a bit longer than intended when I'm running around after Seth. Yesterday I was feeling queasy, though it's more likely to be psychological- I don't think we're supposed to feel the morning sickness for a few more weeks are we?<br /><br />Well goodbye for now,<br />xxxscarletprincesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834643344877232931noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13537911.post-47070483613156934022008-09-08T20:30:00.003+00:002008-09-08T20:39:48.755+00:00handmade rocks!As in handmade stuff 'rocks' not handmade stones ;o)<br /><br />Got my UKSwap prize from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5321960">nic's etsy shop</a> today :oD<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijo1gSoTE8ADQVgCWe4zp6A9tfa2-jeEGLKqKrr-NzDcMXBLcVU3HoIyXa1T5V-jdYNyKP0YuHb-vhQIWTVKD4PT4lMBqaF4XLT5b7noMNldLdbroj9DaiGrDFGHjSS9PY5PDswQ/s1600-h/DSCF2163.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijo1gSoTE8ADQVgCWe4zp6A9tfa2-jeEGLKqKrr-NzDcMXBLcVU3HoIyXa1T5V-jdYNyKP0YuHb-vhQIWTVKD4PT4lMBqaF4XLT5b7noMNldLdbroj9DaiGrDFGHjSS9PY5PDswQ/s320/DSCF2163.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5243751272741404978" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Isn't it gorgeous? I love the funky print, it's co-ordinated and cool. Amazing how she made these with her own bare hands just for me!<br /><br />Seeing as I was on etsy.... I managed to stray upon one of my other fave sellers- FeltStudioUK. Her stuff is beautiful too. I ordered this even though I shouldn't have ;o)<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.36853603.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.36853603.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Isn't it lush- I love the combination of burnt orange and petrol/grey. I saw it and couldn't resist. I've spun up 2 out of 3 lots I've bought from her so far so I guess I'm not so bad at hoarding fibre!<br /><br />Well, being back at work sucks! Also, I got locked out of my house because my nephew who is staying with me borrowed my keys and then also took my DB out so no-one was in when I got home with Seth. I ended up getting Db's stepdad to pick us up for an hour. hmph!<br /><br />Have a nive week everyone,<br />xxxscarletprincesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834643344877232931noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13537911.post-70556576607039945852008-09-05T19:06:00.003+00:002008-09-05T19:13:21.169+00:00just a few picsWell I didn't trip over or fall off the stage and all went well!<br />Just a quick post before I have to put Seth to bed and then I have babysitters (god bless nephews and their girlfriends) to look after him while Dan (DB) takes me out for a meal!<br /><br />Here is me at the uni after getting my robes:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEokRl6AbckhvcyyoeCxnbWCfIlOyfErHOicRiyHkM8Ca9ZN28J7Go66SJ5tfIHkZm4p0gTwDHvojRWhj1SzFTuq_MCOeTBtlV2rBQlovfTD1ghHJk49x8WDT-biT8Bs2Uoze24Q/s1600-h/DSCF2067.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEokRl6AbckhvcyyoeCxnbWCfIlOyfErHOicRiyHkM8Ca9ZN28J7Go66SJ5tfIHkZm4p0gTwDHvojRWhj1SzFTuq_MCOeTBtlV2rBQlovfTD1ghHJk49x8WDT-biT8Bs2Uoze24Q/s320/DSCF2067.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242616606902962130" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />This is the proud parents:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiblvAu03hKFpw-fUgOdodYFz5YnW8Hl-U8MM9h_5G4F_eH56SzLY4HMlLgL2n14QKi4aA7qoDjWcz_-YMgDmiG-5iDvON-MGS7BdqbnVQF4vquMnltFqcRn1esC8mit2Pvmg9BA/s1600-h/DSCF2066.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiblvAu03hKFpw-fUgOdodYFz5YnW8Hl-U8MM9h_5G4F_eH56SzLY4HMlLgL2n14QKi4aA7qoDjWcz_-YMgDmiG-5iDvON-MGS7BdqbnVQF4vquMnltFqcRn1esC8mit2Pvmg9BA/s320/DSCF2066.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242616617478229970" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Here is my little man congratulating me when I got home:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7UGpsCT-cFaae1SY9jqmVRxKs0L-QZEhKVRvlnnV-KqF16t4O7B_ppR-W8YL_1BF1vJmtarL69w8d6d18zIHW_T3Jd6u8c_W065iOvd7N4pZWRY_VEoPlVEPuAfn0QP3cA9Kx7Q/s1600-h/DSCF2072.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7UGpsCT-cFaae1SY9jqmVRxKs0L-QZEhKVRvlnnV-KqF16t4O7B_ppR-W8YL_1BF1vJmtarL69w8d6d18zIHW_T3Jd6u8c_W065iOvd7N4pZWRY_VEoPlVEPuAfn0QP3cA9Kx7Q/s320/DSCF2072.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242616613552264146" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />As soon as we get back from our meal we will be present wrapping- it's Seth's 2nd birthday tomorrow! How time flies.<br /><br />Good night<br />xscarletprincesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834643344877232931noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13537911.post-61509456463141874982008-09-05T09:07:00.003+00:002008-09-05T09:18:59.598+00:00Class of '08Today I graduate from uni. Me- very very nervous! I haven't eaten yet this morning my stomach is in knots because I don't like stages or people watching me or anything like that. I'm taking my mom and dad with me and, as Seth is too young to be carted around with us, Dan (DB) is staying at home with him.<br /><br />Now, I've been studying forever for this degree! Instead of 4 part-time years it's taken 6! Having Seth and vile depressing Honours Project of Doom saw to that! But, I have no regrets and I'm happy I stuck with it. There are 3 of us from work who are graduating today and we're going to be the last 3 for some time as our department isn't taking any more trainees while the shift hours haven't been implemented or decided properly.<br /><br />Also.... I had a letter from the university yesterday- they're fantastic at giving you very little notice- saying that I have won a university prize. The letter invites me and my guests (mom and dad) to the prizewinners reception after the graduation ceremony. I don't even know what the prize is! Knowing Wolverhampton University it will be something lame but I'm on a bit of a winning streak lately! Maybe I should put a £1 on the lottery!<br /><br />I really didn't sleep much last night but my head is buzzing and the adrenaline has me thinking "what if the queues for the robes are really long?" and "what will I do if trip and make an arse out of myself?" etc etc.<br /><br />Anyhoo, I have to go and smarten up because I'm pretty sure they wont let my collect my degree certificate in PJs and a fluffy dressing gown- even if it does have pink hearts all over it! Snazzy!<br /><br />No doubt I'll post soon.... my UKSwap parcel is due any day now and I'm sure my dad will have many many pics from the digital camera!!!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63FPNs5dQMcWqBjAdI2RkL9G28WSeEd2xK_Dk5gL9BW6B2yx3F4_YoaIGfewHy0LWGai53tGKwz3re8nvxXX7XV8EGClr1tsolJLhmZXwtenp7eEPPPPsS2GC8SeYcV_8vDo5Gw/s1600-h/graduation_gifts.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63FPNs5dQMcWqBjAdI2RkL9G28WSeEd2xK_Dk5gL9BW6B2yx3F4_YoaIGfewHy0LWGai53tGKwz3re8nvxXX7XV8EGClr1tsolJLhmZXwtenp7eEPPPPsS2GC8SeYcV_8vDo5Gw/s320/graduation_gifts.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242464197091971890" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />xxxscarletprincesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834643344877232931noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13537911.post-15436755243098210662008-08-23T20:36:00.002+00:002008-08-23T20:42:06.388+00:00Yay I won something!Just catching up on my emails and such as I have been busy and found that I'm now the owner of the Treasure Hunt prize on <a href="http://ukswap.blogspot.com/">UKSwap</a>!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/2773972329_f7d897c721_m.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/2773972329_f7d897c721_m.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />This is the same pic that is on the UKSwap site but aren't they beautiful?! I love the bags in <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5321960">this etsy shop.</a><br />The fabrics are so gorgeous!<br /><br />Thankyou to the UKSwap team- Delle and Roo for hosting the swap this year and for (albeit randomly) picking me for the winner!<br /><br />OK, too tired to type anything else but will post soon. As soon as I find the USB lead for my laptop I'll be able to post about my own achievements with my very own photos!<br />YAY!scarletprincesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834643344877232931noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13537911.post-4365964694093810482008-08-09T09:45:00.004+00:002008-08-10T15:32:14.854+00:00Contain yourselves........ for the big news I have.<br />I'm a qualified Biomedical Scientist! WOOOHOOO!<br /><br />There said it. It's been a darn hectic few weeks hence the lack of posting or online activity. I'd pretty much banned myself from using the internet whilst working as I get distracted and 2 hours later I'd still be looking at yarn and patterns and no further ahead. Lets get the formalities out of the way first....<br /><br />This weeks UKSwap Question:<br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);"> Films is the topic this week:</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Do you prefer to watch films at home or at the cinema?<br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Both. I love going to the cinema and scoffing popcorn, drinking far too much coca cola and almost fainting when the guy at the pick and mix stand tells you how much it is. Also.. I love watching an old fave on the sofa with my favourite blanket, cuppa, sweets/biscuits/cake.</span><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">What is the last film you saw?<br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Embarrassing..... In her shoes with Cameron Diaz in. I'm not usually one for heartwarming dramas that make you cry but I loved it and yes I cried at the end!</span><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Have you seen any films more than 10 times? If so which ones and why.<br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Any of the original Star Wars... Armageddon (close to 50)... xXx anyone who loves Vin Diesel will know why ;o)...in fact anything with Vin Diesel in I've watched at least 10 times!... Coyote Ugly... Usual Suspects... Dogma... </span><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">What film do you recommend that people should see?<br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">That's a tough one... Dogma. Funny, weird, has a message.</span><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">If you could be any character from a film who would it be?<br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher)- She got to snog Harrison Ford as Han Solo. Lush (if now about 70)<br /><br />Any other news? Er well no. I haven't had much of a life lately so not a lot going on really. I've joined the Secret of the Stole 3 KAL which I'm excited and nervous about. I'm not mega experienced with lace, but I thought that the staged KAL might suit me. However, I do think I'll fall hopelessly behind and be lagging behind all those experienced people. Ah well.<br /><br />I've chosen plum Jaggerspun Zephyr laceweight with a mixture of lilac and irredescent clear beads, got my 1mm crochet hook, completed a swatch in malabrigo whilst waiting impatiently for yarn, started another in project yarn. Almost ready! The first piece of the pattern is out Friday 15th August.<br /><br />Well, I'm catching up on Private Practice (Grey's Anatomy spin off) while Seth naps.... oh the quiet!<br /><br />xxxx<br /></span></span>scarletprincesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834643344877232931noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13537911.post-51781186186614258582008-07-11T19:54:00.002+00:002008-07-11T20:00:12.428+00:002 post in one day?Surely not ;o)<br /><br />Here's my <span style="font-weight: bold;">UK Swap Question 5</span>:<br />Quick fire questions this week, based on a game I've played with friends whilst on (very long) car journeys!<br />Choose one - don't think just choose...<br /> <p class="MsoNormal">1. Stop or go? <span style="color: rgb(0, 112, 192);">Go</span><br />2. Going out or Staying in? <span style="color: rgb(0, 112, 192);">Staying in</span><br />3. Small town or big city? <span style="color: rgb(0, 112, 192);">Small town </span><br />4. Happy or sad? <span style="color: rgb(0, 112, 192);">Sad</span><br />5. Straights or Circulars? <span style="color: rgb(0, 112, 192);">Straights</span><br />6. Red or Blue? Red<br />7. Seaside or countryside? <span style="color: rgb(0, 112, 192);">Seaside</span><br />8. Fish or chips? <span style="color: rgb(0, 112, 192);">Fish</span><br />9. Surprises or plans? <span style="color: rgb(0, 112, 192);">Surprises</span><br />10. Wine or beer? <span style="color: rgb(0, 112, 192);">Wine</span><br />11. Sweaters or cardigans? <span style="color: rgb(0, 112, 192);">Cardigans</span><br />12. Pizza or Pasta?<span style="color: rgb(0, 112, 192);"> Pasta</span><br />13. Chopsticks or fork? <span style="color: rgb(0, 112, 192);">Fork</span><br />14. Early Bird or Night Owl? <span style="color: rgb(0, 112, 192);">Early bird</span><br />15. Knitting or crochet? <span style="color: rgb(0, 112, 192);">Knitting</span><br />16. Hot or cold?<span style="color: rgb(0, 112, 192);"> Hot</span></p> And now for the picture part of this quiz (copied from a meme that's going around at the moment)<br />a. Type your answer to each of the questions below into Flickr Search.<br />b. Using only the first page, pick an image<br />c. Copy and paste each of the URLs for the images into <a href="http://bighugelabs.com/flickr/mosaic.php">fd’s mosaic maker</a>.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2092/2658665755_11e4983e2e.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2092/2658665755_11e4983e2e.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I chose these not really thinking about whether they would go together but I think they do! In fact I've got it as my desktop right now!<br /><br />Well, thats as much as I can give out right now.... I'm all posted out for today!scarletprincesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834643344877232931noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13537911.post-21827641521763545132008-07-11T07:42:00.002+00:002008-07-11T07:56:40.428+00:00long time no seeHi guys<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />thought I'd drop anot to say that no, I haven't dropped off the face of the earth.... I'm just a busy girl right now. In fact, i'm at work this very moment trying to get a short post in because I know I just need to update the world!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I've got loads of catching up to do with the UK Swap thing which is just unfortunate since I loved being in last year's swap and just finding being a full participant really hard right now. I was hoping that I'd be able to get into things by the end of July but my assessment has been pushed back by the assessor til August.... so dragging out the assessment means I have less free time again.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I do have a few picture updates though.<br /><br /><br />I have almost finished the Simply Knitting cabled cardi:<br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3125/2657267239_e5f9538e91.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3125/2657267239_e5f9538e91.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />This is scrunched up because I'm trying to knit the rib which goes all the way around the fronts and neck. There is about 290 stitches and I hate rib especially when it's hard going. The ball you see is what I have left of the Fleece Artist Scotian Silk I made the cardi with so I dont think I'm going to have enough to do the sleeve rib. At £16 a hank not only will I have a very expensive sleeve ribbing but the hanks have about 360m so it's a bit overkill! The sleeves are batwing-y so might just see what they look like without or find an alternative to neaten them.... answers in an email please!!! :o)<br /><a href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2022/2658093676_98d6801b10.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2022/2658093676_98d6801b10.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />This is just a closeup of the lacy cable rib which is on the fronts.<br /><br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3155/2657267619_1847c4c017.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3155/2657267619_1847c4c017.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />This is a new project which I started las week. A crochet cardi from the same Simply Knitting mag i have made the other red cardi from. Unfortunately I have broken my 3.50mm crochet hook so I put a plea bargain on Ravelry to see if anyone has a spare before I buy another.<br /><br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3197/2658093978_2f55a6cf53.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3197/2658093978_2f55a6cf53.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />And here is me when I'm not at work/home/being mum. It's a work night out about 6weeks ago... I'm going to a doctors ball next saturday which should be fun... can't wait to let my hair down just a little bit!<br /><br />Off to work now it's nearly 9am!<br />I'll catch up on UK Swap stuff in my next post!<br />xscarletprincesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834643344877232931noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13537911.post-86402541006261536472008-06-18T19:30:00.002+00:002008-06-18T19:44:03.127+00:00What a busy month!Hi there!<br /><br />Sorry to you guys who think I've dropped off the end of the earth!!!!! I am preparing for my portfolio assessment and my interview. The interview for my job is monday (re-grade and contrsct update) and the assessment will be somewhere in the week starting 14th July. Meaning I have about 3 weeks to finish my folder that is about 2/3rds completed. Eeeeeeeek.<br /><br />Enough about work.... it eats enough of my life already!<br /><br />Knitting: SWAP TIME PEOPLE!!!<br />I'm a bit late posting this but....<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Question 1: WWKIP day</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">On Saturday</span> I knit at my mum's house. Not quite public but I had Seth and grocery shopping too! Oh how exciting my life is ;o)<br />I knit <span style="font-style: italic;">regularly </span>at work so I guess that is public and I used to love going to a knit group but sadly I dont go now.<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Weirdest place</span>..... er.... well at a haematology seminar at Birmingham NEC is probably the strangest event. I knit in the bathroom when Seth is in the bath too which may be a little obsessive but it's rare I get time to knit in the day at home!<br /><br />Also... I know several people tagged me for a questionnaire..... er I'll be honest and say I'm too tired and over worked to be bothered!!! Sorry. I think if something less comprehensive comes up I'll have a go ;o)<br /><br />I'm on the right front of the Simply knitting cream caramel cardi... though I'm knitting it in Scotian silk in red that I got when I went to Ravelry day at The Crafty Cottage. I'm praying I'll have enough but if not I think it'll be when I do the ribbing on the cardi edges/neck so I'll maybe stripe it with another colour and do the same on the sleeve ribbing. Great thing about this cardi is that there are no sleeves to make as such, as the increases are built into the back and made in a sort of batwing affair. Hurrah! I'll post pics when I can.<br /><br />Right, I'll try and keep up with the UK Swap questions and post weekly now, but doesn't time get away so quickly!!!<br /><br />See ya for now, Fi xscarletprincesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834643344877232931noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13537911.post-28330948555188030642008-05-25T11:07:00.007+00:002008-12-10T01:22:59.005+00:00Bank Holiday curseDon't you just love Bank Holiday weather?! It is raining as I type and looking generally grim. Plans of gardening gone awry, no visits to the duckpond or Seth playing on the slide. On the upside- <span style="font-style: italic;">no gardening</span> and I don't have to waste water using a hosepipe since Mother Nature is doing its thing.<br /><br />Also.... Bank Holidays are so busy. I would have more rest at work! Yesterday, Seth had a social engagement (birthday party) to attend and of course I'm the chaperone on his arm ;o) and he has another on Monday as it is my niece's birthday on the 28th. As you can see, he dressed to impress<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgdjnXWqAlGvjifUOuws-lBR0nlx6Xbc8rBBDE9AuAOFfY1hyEXul1pJzuj4EM1CR_9BX9wkSRik51aR_F95-IbTXn6EMwejPAdJXxMoHki95nzkLUuGutD_KQzp0LGA7bsuTCaw/s1600-h/SP_A0209.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgdjnXWqAlGvjifUOuws-lBR0nlx6Xbc8rBBDE9AuAOFfY1hyEXul1pJzuj4EM1CR_9BX9wkSRik51aR_F95-IbTXn6EMwejPAdJXxMoHki95nzkLUuGutD_KQzp0LGA7bsuTCaw/s320/SP_A0209.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5204273309356862114" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />And here he is making another cheeky face for the camera.... such a star!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTz1Ew2YrzuW-RgTn76Sc4Zdd-SLRLwfR9KBAdr1V-iYbrXBs0JbtwnQqngAmmrIX1zOm_qGOJQRN3a2pNe82AneiXj5180dFFyVpwKJOYL3oXSufoXMucxHWJwBNutj-mNRFLhw/s1600-h/SP_A0208.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTz1Ew2YrzuW-RgTn76Sc4Zdd-SLRLwfR9KBAdr1V-iYbrXBs0JbtwnQqngAmmrIX1zOm_qGOJQRN3a2pNe82AneiXj5180dFFyVpwKJOYL3oXSufoXMucxHWJwBNutj-mNRFLhw/s320/SP_A0208.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5204273313651829426" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I have managed some progress this week. I haven't been knitting much over the last few weeks, work and necessary resting haven't left me with much patience or inspiration. However, on friday I decided to spin the second half of the 'beach' fibre I got from FeltStudioUK on etsy. I managed to spin it all and get it plied with the first batch too. A late night... but worth it!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs58i1HKDnuO35CemVWeLEnGVqLJiWvh5DMeyMO5vvuZovogcLuYeaOiczzV4kwtOsjgwtvgGD319vRCbR-Bs4r0ueXM_2OW8KF-1yTJiypkQ2Z9Wi5j1-jwf40jGUrpZDzgOaLw/s1600-h/SP_A0206.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs58i1HKDnuO35CemVWeLEnGVqLJiWvh5DMeyMO5vvuZovogcLuYeaOiczzV4kwtOsjgwtvgGD319vRCbR-Bs4r0ueXM_2OW8KF-1yTJiypkQ2Z9Wi5j1-jwf40jGUrpZDzgOaLw/s320/SP_A0206.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5204275319401556690" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />It is still a little bit wet here but turned out good for my first real effort since I started spinning a few years ago. I'd just washed it and hung it to dry, but had lots of great advice from the guys on the UKSpinners group on ravelry. Next time I'll try the shock and whack method which is what most people seem to do. I'm not sure why, but physically torturing yarn seems a bit sadistic though I suppose it's a better way for relieving your frustration that some therapies ;o)<br /><br />I finished the second front on the hexacomb cardigan this morning. I think if I dedicated a bit more time to the project it would be done in no time at all.... ah well. It's easy enough to pick up and put down so the rest of the back and sleeves plus neckbands are left.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6qc2FI2bZ5K8Srp6kL41fCLF-CZfVcSI8NTbWQPgP0QGXd3YrKjxbJaEhoyNeNRbHZx2d7kPJrGwV9rEA_JX6-k5FtNi0ZEteXtmj_a3E93yRZzyUpsMSgY3-oSRzBRzg5ubjcA/s1600-h/SP_A0211.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6qc2FI2bZ5K8Srp6kL41fCLF-CZfVcSI8NTbWQPgP0QGXd3YrKjxbJaEhoyNeNRbHZx2d7kPJrGwV9rEA_JX6-k5FtNi0ZEteXtmj_a3E93yRZzyUpsMSgY3-oSRzBRzg5ubjcA/s320/SP_A0211.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5204277441115400946" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Right.... to finish up, since watching CSI:NY is just takes so much attention ;o) I urge all you guys to join UK Swap... sign ups end soon and the more the merrier!!! The blog button is on my sidebar- click it, click it now!!!scarletprincesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834643344877232931noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13537911.post-38971218734147427592008-05-19T20:54:00.002+00:002008-12-10T01:22:59.261+00:00UK Swap round 2 questionnaire<strong><span style=";font-family:";" >Part</span></strong> <strong><span style=";font-family:";" >One: Crafting</span></strong><br /><p class="MsoNormal">Do you knit, crochet, or both?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Both</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br />What do you like to make?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Cardigans mostly for practicality, lacy scarves, fingerless mittens</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br />Do you have a favourite project?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">My Dahlia sweater is my favourite project to date</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br />Do you have a favourite type of fiber or brand of yarn?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I love knitting with wool but I’m allergic to 100% wool or animal fibre. Blends are better for me.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br />Do you have a least favourite type of yarn?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Squeaky acrylic</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br />Do you do any other crafts?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I spin with a drop spindle and I’d like to learn how to sew properly.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br />Do you knit in public? If so where do you like knitting and what is your "portable" project?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I like to knit in public but currently I’m without a regular group. I drag along any project <span style=""> </span>that is easy enough to concentrate on without making too many mistakes. Unfortunately I’m not much of a sock knitting person.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br />What do you carry your "portable" knitting in?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">One of the many felted bags I’ve knitted</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br />Are there any knitting gifts (book, toy, yarn, item, tool) that you have been lusting over?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I really would love a yarn swift and ball winder (swoons) and would like a really good 1 skein book.<br /><br /><strong><span style=";font-family:";" >Part Two: Your Favourites</span></strong><br />If you were a specific kind of yarn, which brand and kind of yarn would you be (and why)?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I’d be a something colourful and feltable. Scratchy maybe at first (I’m shy) but then softens and becomes functional and useful in a heated situation ;o) Probably noro kureyon without the pricetag!!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br />What is your favourite colour?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Err.... I like purple a lot and cherry reds.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br />What is your least favourite colour?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Yellow</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br />What scents/smells do you like? What don’t you like?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I don’t like vanilla/caramelly smells .<span style=""> </span>I’m not keen on white chocolate and hate pear drops! </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br />How do you like to pamper yourself? (bubble bath, hand creams, massage, manicure)</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I love good scrubs that make you feel clean, soft and pampered and nice bath products for those rare moments I have time for a good long soak.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br />What goodies to you like to eat? (chocolate, biscuits, sweets,crisps etc)</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I’m a quality not quantity chocolate person so good dark chocolate and love biscuits.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br />Do you prefer tea or coffee while you knit? Any particular kind?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I drink tea mostly at home (regular tea) but while I’m out I’m a Starbucks fanatic!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br />Do you listen to/watch anything while you knit? (TVshow-Along, movies, music, podcasts, </p> <p class="MsoNormal">audiobooks)</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I like to watch films (anything from sci-fi to action to cheesy chickflicks) and my recorded episodes of Moonlight/Blood Ties/Heroes/CSI:NY/How to look good naked. I also like to listen to rock music or the odd podcast at cast off.<br /><br /><strong><span style=";font-family:";" >Part Three: About you, Living & Past-times</span></strong><br />If you were a specific kind of yarn, which brand and kind of yarn would you be (and why)?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I’d be a something colourful and feltable. Scratchy maybe at first (I’m shy) but then softens and becomes functional and useful in a heated situation ;o) Probably noro kureyon without the pricetag!!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br />Where do you live in the UK? (General idea not address)</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I live in the West Midlands (near Birmingham)</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br />Have you always lived here, or did you grow up somewhere else?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I have always lived in the West Midlands but changed towns a few times</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br />What is your favourite place in the UK?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I loved Cornwall as a kid and really enjoyed a stay in Edinburgh too.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br />If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you go?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I’d love to travel to Prague for the architecture; Egypt for the pyramids; Cuba for the mohitos!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br />What other hobbies do you have?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I like to read, watch TV and films, spin, have just learnt crochet, like to cook (mainly cakes!) and trying my best to learn to sew properly.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /><br /><strong><span style=";font-family:";" >Part Four: The Theme</span></strong><b><br /></b>As part of this swap we are asking you to post (or link to) a picture or photograph you like. Your swap pal will use the photo as a basis for a themed item or parcel.<br />It could be of a specific item, e.g. Jellybeans, an Alpaca, a rainbow or a scene e.g. sunset, beach, woodland or anything else you can think of! Please add a few words to explain why you have chosen the photo if you think this is appropriate.<br />It could be a photo you have taken or a picture you have found on the internet. <strong><span style=";font-family:";" >Please note - if the picture is not yours please ensure you seek permission from the owner before posting it on your blog. Alternatively, you can link to the original picture.<o:p></o:p></span></strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><a href="http://www.lanl.gov/news/albums/safety/Lightning.jpg">http://www.lanl.gov/news/albums/safety/Lightning.jpg<br /></a></b></p><p class="MsoNormal">(That is the original link for the picture.)</p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3NL9i7I2krCDR3DBtWzrzpmxM9nW0T4yW2Ap3VqFFXp6RnvHN9czrp4Zkx8EL_d5Bkmi1s1HHwv3sKb-lxXu6RxmB7jUaBf9TPGbMkUKJFlu7ywtGy0ABw7bDcpcKvQ7VhaXM7g/s1600-h/Lightning.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3NL9i7I2krCDR3DBtWzrzpmxM9nW0T4yW2Ap3VqFFXp6RnvHN9czrp4Zkx8EL_d5Bkmi1s1HHwv3sKb-lxXu6RxmB7jUaBf9TPGbMkUKJFlu7ywtGy0ABw7bDcpcKvQ7VhaXM7g/s320/Lightning.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5202196547179754514" border="0" /></a></p><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><br /><p class="MsoNormal"></p>I used this picture because not only does it show beautiful colours, but I am fascinated by adverse weather and how amazing and dangerous nature can be. Since a lot of knitted items are made us to protect us from the elements I thought a weather picture would be apt. I don’t expect miraculous lightning proof knits though ;o)<span style=""> </span>but I thought the colours were particularly pretty.<br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><strong><span style=";font-family:";" >Final Part:</span></strong><br />Any allergies/preferences (fiber-wise or treat-wise)? I’m allergic to kiwi and 100% animal fibre yarns like wool and alpaca which make me itch and anything with a high angora content makes me sneeze and feel like I have a cold! <span style=""> </span>Plant/acrylic/wool blends seem to be just fine. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br />Anything we missed that you’d like your partner to know?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I’d like my partner to know I have a quirky sense of humour and like patterns which show my individuality but also like classically beautiful things also.</p><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">I think that is it! Yay UK swaps!!!!<br /></p>scarletprincesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834643344877232931noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13537911.post-65412918260270848532008-05-14T18:21:00.002+00:002008-05-14T18:28:39.472+00:00Pimp it up!!!Hi guys sorry about the lack of blogging!<br /><br />I'm making a short shout out to everyone that reads my blog to say:<br /><br /><a href="http://ukswap.blogspot.com/">UK Swap</a> are up and about for round 2!!! YAY!<br /><br />Please please please go and visit the <a href="http://ukswap.blogspot.com/">UK Swap blog</a> and have a look, the requirements are massive and as long as you are UK based you can join! Also.... please say in the comments I sent you!!! There is a contest going atm and everyone is entered in for some Socks That Rock yarn if they post a blog post or get a comment on the Swap site! It's all fair and I'll be commenting that I found out about it from <a href="http://rooknittting.blogspot.com/">Roo</a> before actually looking at the Swap site. Unfortunately she can't have it as she's one of the new swap hosts.<br /><br />Good luck <a href="http://rooknittting.blogspot.com/">Roo</a>!!!!<br /><br />Catch ya later.... xscarletprincesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834643344877232931noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13537911.post-38452713113084456952008-05-05T10:25:00.002+00:002008-05-05T10:33:29.937+00:00Disaster!Seriously people- I could cry right now! I finished my gift Branching Out for my great aunt’s 80th birthday last night and 5 minutes ago I thought I’d go and block it for photos etc and wrap it up. BIG MISTAKE. Since I generally use the iron for stuff like this…. well it looks like cotton, feels like cotton, knits like cotton….. I forgot it isnt cotton but <strong>maize</strong>. It also <strong>melts</strong>. Turns crispy, and spiky kind of melting. It took me months to finish this between the zillion other projects and I don’t have enough time to make another. My mum is going to donate the 100% silk mini clapotis I made her as said aunt hasn’t seen it before. I dont know whether to be grateful or insulted that she’d give it away but still. :”o(<br /><br />I'm now in no mood whatsoever to be taking pictures etc etc, but I'll make my little progress report:<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Hexacomb cardigan</span>: Finished Left Front and ready to re-join yarn to right front.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Jose's handwarmers:</span> about 80% done on the first mitt but not entirely positive I have enough silk garden for both. I got this via UKarma and only have 1 ball. The pattern uses 1 ball of kureyon so I thought it would be enough. I'm reluctant now to finish it and start the other in case I end up frogging them,.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Crosswalkers:</span> I've turned the heel and nearly ready to do the toe on sock#1<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">New project: Bronte's mitts </span>for the Fingerless Gloves Fanatics group on ravelry. I have completed the rib section of the mitt and ready to start a lace section . These are the May KAL project for the group so it will definately be a challenge to get these done before the end of the month! Normal people can make these in a few days, but with my life interfering far too much with knitting it'll be a struggle.<br /><br />I'm going to curl up into the fetal position now and sob on the very immediate loss I've just suffered. Damn it!! Damn it!! Damn it!!!scarletprincesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834643344877232931noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13537911.post-15191550476810886272008-04-27T06:41:00.003+00:002008-12-10T01:23:00.231+00:00Boo here I am!Hey guys!<br /><br />I know I've been hiding for 2 weeks but... o.k. don't have much of an excuse to be honest. There has been way too much time on the laptop swapping on ravelry and still I couldn't quite be bothered to blog. Life happens huh.<br /><br />I have had some great parcels over the last few weeks though! UKarma swaps is the best/worst thing in my little knitting lifetime at the moment. I find so much support, inspiration and of course yarn (!) from these guys.... but the knitting itself has taken a bit of a knock! I have finished a my fetching mittens though...<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh175EGBwwR8GpnlWU5di1wSf-lBQUW9u8glTybgqHcaX1to8L977yG2i7pQVfy4gnxFRxfaaKwexKhDDUmRI2dkRXXasbln0TSVkJ4DQgL89RD39vEmGuXkewKrF1OmeQEnhyphenhyphenIqA/s1600-h/SP_A0178.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh175EGBwwR8GpnlWU5di1wSf-lBQUW9u8glTybgqHcaX1to8L977yG2i7pQVfy4gnxFRxfaaKwexKhDDUmRI2dkRXXasbln0TSVkJ4DQgL89RD39vEmGuXkewKrF1OmeQEnhyphenhyphenIqA/s320/SP_A0178.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5193813237436160594" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I have to say that I absolutely L.O.V.E. these mitts! I'm glad that I forced myself to get them off the needles; 1000 modifications and all; and make them to fit me. I've had lots of lovely comments about them too... so many that I have a long list of non-knitting people who want wristwarmers. Ahhh well I know what everyone i getting for birthdays and christmasses! Trouble is it's nearly the end of spring.... well actually no it isn't is it? Not in rainy england anyway.<br /><br />And so I have cast on a pair of '<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/extra-warm-kureyon-wristers">Extra Warm Kureyon Wristers</a>' from ravelry pattern library for my sister Jose. Only I've used Noro Silk Garden I got from UKarma swaps. Jose saw this yarn at my mums a few weeks ago (I'd been to the PO depot to get a zillion parcels) and claimed it for some wristwarmers. See not all the yarn is for me! The colour is a purple/rusty orange/grey colourway.<br /><br />I have been making slow painstaking progress on the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/scarletprincess/hexacomb-cardigan">Hexacomb cardigan</a> too. Trouble is with this project atm is that there is 194 stitches on the 4mm circular addi. All of which are 100% cotton and non stretchy. In turn I get massive cotton related RSI in my right thumb and could cry after about 3 rows. Also, the purlside row has to be counted and patterned so can't just zip bacwards and forwards. I think after another inch or so I can separate the fronts and back and it will be easier going for me. I like the pattern to look at and making it because I love the style of the cardi. I knew all along that I'd hate knitting it though!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuqFfxjfT_MUM7KhzOxLCS6n01NbXvWf0e3rfpNRGWBg5JNzhToRCFIBhQB-H-pY6Rdj8tssNiO1Zh0eXPUtTWr_S5UeQxFea-3vH1qXUdO9eplTL8c_vutdSrUSvRl7ZNlzVK9Q/s1600-h/SP_A0175.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuqFfxjfT_MUM7KhzOxLCS6n01NbXvWf0e3rfpNRGWBg5JNzhToRCFIBhQB-H-pY6Rdj8tssNiO1Zh0eXPUtTWr_S5UeQxFea-3vH1qXUdO9eplTL8c_vutdSrUSvRl7ZNlzVK9Q/s320/SP_A0175.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5193813254616029794" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I am a bit further along than this- I took this pic for the ravelry project avatar. I've nearly finished the ball of cotton. This particular brand has got 200m or so to a ball and I've nearly got to the AH without changing balls; even if it's a cropped cardi I'm impressed.<br /><br />I've also taken a little trip to fibreville. I was sorting stash for swaps last week and found my turqoise merino... started spinning it just because I could and all that.... and now have this:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrH7QkXDEODiYTceCbOVL1BPJCBlQqvbomlb1xZMX1x0OtRrJVY_XH-v1mHbNEsK46sOPuoR2cihmwY2Ldk3bTroFlekAW4uj5oahBTJ9mfSr_dqXV5LrwfRvfcF6i4_9l_A_pZA/s1600-h/SP_A0190.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrH7QkXDEODiYTceCbOVL1BPJCBlQqvbomlb1xZMX1x0OtRrJVY_XH-v1mHbNEsK46sOPuoR2cihmwY2Ldk3bTroFlekAW4uj5oahBTJ9mfSr_dqXV5LrwfRvfcF6i4_9l_A_pZA/s320/SP_A0190.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5193813258910997106" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />and<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2a4Gb84Qx7ig6OF6jTyhZ_fj2vk4awE5dtF2Kq8YKXsP-3UGizJoJ94cCWoV_hXTuvrdwyyz6bgATz5oXrx7SOSpsffCRF23avANcQCYsogkqnKiiJ3tjLzQdygnj4PnAPQAFsg/s1600-h/SP_A0191.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2a4Gb84Qx7ig6OF6jTyhZ_fj2vk4awE5dtF2Kq8YKXsP-3UGizJoJ94cCWoV_hXTuvrdwyyz6bgATz5oXrx7SOSpsffCRF23avANcQCYsogkqnKiiJ3tjLzQdygnj4PnAPQAFsg/s320/SP_A0191.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5193813258910997122" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I bought this from an etsy store (first etsy purchase) called Felt Studio UK. I was a bit nervous though goodness knows why- maybe the $ thing or never using it before but the service was amazing. Bought it thursday evening- here saturday morning. The rosewood colourway is bigger, but I got both plus p&p for about $33... about £17. I was well impressed with the quality and softness, plus as I started spinning the 'beach' last night it was way easier than spinning the merino. In fact I've spun about 1/3 of the beach already! I've already had a look at her stuff again. Oh dear. Well the great spring destash has made some room at least. In fact I paid with th fibre from some yarn-cash in my paypal account- so didn't spend "real" money!<br /><br />Ooh.... I had some yarn come last week which is fab. It's similar to malabrigo in texture and thickness:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhME0U-Pk9ExCOLaYVPvgDxvxQkFTQ12b9VKyuwnnRp_O338SMtgjBIt0f0bL6xu6E0EnZ031eBxxjCDETb5PKlUVIHmuYNfyL_QO4uEPAqvoHvhqJvXUJfpfJVfk2e0pQlVOVw_g/s1600-h/riodeplata.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhME0U-Pk9ExCOLaYVPvgDxvxQkFTQ12b9VKyuwnnRp_O338SMtgjBIt0f0bL6xu6E0EnZ031eBxxjCDETb5PKlUVIHmuYNfyL_QO4uEPAqvoHvhqJvXUJfpfJVfk2e0pQlVOVw_g/s320/riodeplata.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5193813263205964434" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The colour is less mauvey and more lilaccy but is so gorgeous. I'm thinking of making it into some of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/lace-up-opera-gloves">these</a> or even <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/marquise-gauntlets">these</a>. Both are definately me!! Can you tell I've gotten cought up in some sort of wristwarmer disease? I've even joined the Fingerless Glove Fanatics on ravelry! They are hosting a May KAL and I've joined up... though I'm finding it hard to decide on what yarn to use. The pattern is '<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/brontes-mitts">Bronte's Mittts</a>' and seems to need a DK weight though the pattern uses two strands of a mohair and koigu held together. Hmmmm. Still pondering and only have a few days til CO. Never done a KAL before either!<br /><br />Right, Seth is demanding that I play with him.... he's covered in crayola markers.... you can hide the pens but he still manages to find them. At lease they're not on the walls ;o)<br /><br />See ya x<span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/lace-up-opera-gloves"></a><br /><img src="file:///C:/Users/fi/AppData/Local/Temp/moz-screenshot.jpg" alt="" />scarletprincesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834643344877232931noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13537911.post-27440464662651702642008-04-13T16:21:00.003+00:002008-12-10T01:23:00.892+00:00Spring DestashHello there<br /><br />Well, a little progess is more than none as they say.<br /><br />This week, I have managed to finish and post the Kitchen swap items, get half way through Fetching Mitten #2 and I have cast on for the Hexacomb cardigan.<br /><br />Through no fault of anyone but myself, I didn't really do as much Portfolio work as I really should have but I suppose that's no surprise! I really lack self discipline when I have no fixed deadline to work to. Unfortunately, when I get to work tomorrow I suspect that my deadline will have been set and I'll have just about a few weeks to get it finished and prepare myself for the Big Day. That is... being interviewed for my qualification. Nail biting stuff!<br /><br />Well this is a little round up of this week's little achievements really. I haven't quite done enough on the Hexacomb cardi to warrant a picture- the fronts and backs are all cast on together then separated at the armholes, so casting on 194 stitches in mercerised cotton was a chore. Last night I managed to get about 18 rows of pattern done.<br /><br />I did a little bit of baking midweek:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpnu48_SueQnKtjlplqjPrwh1jY37OI5sZRfs1lKsnnTiSQbvZBdq7UurP7NvNEc1qwV__YZC1oCTk2OHuA6jIryTmDt0__yMPSrR7DTF1DdAD-9jDCrT4OsTF1X-KxD-olwskrw/s1600-h/SP_A0164.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpnu48_SueQnKtjlplqjPrwh1jY37OI5sZRfs1lKsnnTiSQbvZBdq7UurP7NvNEc1qwV__YZC1oCTk2OHuA6jIryTmDt0__yMPSrR7DTF1DdAD-9jDCrT4OsTF1X-KxD-olwskrw/s320/SP_A0164.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5188768386190321522" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />This here is banana cake. It was so yummy I literally ate half the cake before lunchtime! Good thing it's considered a 'low fat' recipe then! The recipe was just from a friend and not out of a book or anything so I don't suppose it'll hurt to tell ya ;o)<br /><br />Banana Cake (Low fat- ish!)<br /><br />3/4 cup Caster sugar (I used 'light' sugar which is 1/3 sweetener to cut down on the kcals)<br />3/4 cup vegetable oil<br />3/4 cup plain flour<br />3/4 cup self-raising flour<br />3 eggs<br />3 bananas mashed<br />pinch bicarbonate of soda<br /><br />*whisk oil and sugar together and add eggs<br />*add bananas<br />*fold in the flour and bicarb<br />*grease a loaf tin and pour in mixture<br />*180 degrees for 45 minutes, check middle with a knife, adding 10 mins as needed til the middle is firm<br />Voila. Don't burn yourself trying to eat it as soon s it's done ;o)<br /><br />As part of the 'spring destash' I have been getting rid of odd balls and stash I'm bored with and such on ravelry.<br />It's gone surprisingly well and I've managed to send out quite a bit. I've just managed to sell some too which is a bonus. Although... I was supposed to be selling my spinning stuff too as I never get around to doing any. As you know... when you get it all out, you tend to try it out etc etc and never got around to destashing the fibre.... instead I got this done:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpSB-UthxkqnD7Qs1vGu7Y5IV9xlfvWHKJujrTKpX8DolwDo3Z5FOLCXbmt4vD7CrMwkVWK7lthKtdriV5HAz9uatfT2csVKKCIvVtS9ynkPQAWTOsypJVd8CTUe3-2yjqIHkA3w/s1600-h/SP_A0166.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpSB-UthxkqnD7Qs1vGu7Y5IV9xlfvWHKJujrTKpX8DolwDo3Z5FOLCXbmt4vD7CrMwkVWK7lthKtdriV5HAz9uatfT2csVKKCIvVtS9ynkPQAWTOsypJVd8CTUe3-2yjqIHkA3w/s320/SP_A0166.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5188768386190321538" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />This is merino, which I'd never spun up before. It is as fine as I usually spin it, so will need plying for it to be of use to me, but I enjoyed doing something different. So I guess it's staying!<br /><br />And lastly......<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOLv8EMb3KLU_sQ9i-NQrbUPAyX6pIHy01pOe8tE34HQESdSZiaVah2tEBX82YR-E-d4lhwRqElT_YMNns8Ma-Yq5KU5SwGkfcAOCzDO-tgcHDmpEi0J1mfKIhVZef7eX_Hwr2qQ/s1600-h/SP_A0169.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOLv8EMb3KLU_sQ9i-NQrbUPAyX6pIHy01pOe8tE34HQESdSZiaVah2tEBX82YR-E-d4lhwRqElT_YMNns8Ma-Yq5KU5SwGkfcAOCzDO-tgcHDmpEi0J1mfKIhVZef7eX_Hwr2qQ/s320/SP_A0169.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5188768390485288850" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The new hair. I love it.<br /><br />Check me out on ravelry if ya want, I'm the usual 'scarletprincess' on there. Please aid the destash :o)<br />xscarletprincesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07834643344877232931noreply@blogger.com2