The Results of 29-Days of Intense Knitting

I present to you, my two new lace cardigans. Knitted and seamed in 29 days! I disappeared into the knitting world to get these done. I was a crazed knitting machine. I was on a knitting high for so long that I'm now one tired puppy. Mentally.


My first lace cardigans

There were many firsts for me on this project:

- My first real knitted cardigan. Knitted from the bottom up. Meaning: there would be knitted pieces (e.g. back, 2 fronts, and 2 sleeves) that would be seamed later.

- My first real lace pattern. I attempted to knit a lace scarf, but got bored with it.

- I knitted both versions at the same time. I actually started with the Denim version (expensive yarn) and then decided to knit another version Azalea with inexpensive yarn. I would call my Azalea version a "muslin" or test garment.

- Just like in the sewing world, I knew I had to "adjust" the bodice otherwise the 8-row ribbing would hit smack in the middle of my full bust area. I lengthened the bodice, under the armhole and above the 8-row ribbing.

- I knitted my first buttonholes. Talk about a mind-boggling task. I had to figure out the placement along the front bodice and then how much to space out while knitting and purling the front ribbing. I used a two-stitch buttonhole for 3/4" buttons. This task reminded me of sewing buttonholes with my SM...where I hold my breath until a buttonhole is finished. ;)

- I actually sewed side seams that disappeared into the garment. That was a back-breaking job for me as I stood for long periods of time to get this done. I used my cutting table cart to layout my knitted pieces to sew the seams flat.

This was definitely a fun-filled and rewarding knitting project for me. I enjoyed the challenge and as a result, I ended up with two beautiful cardigans to wear.

At one point, I had to stop knitting to get a haircut. My local hair salon was offering a free haircut/charity event to those who were laid off or looking for jobs. Donations would be sent to a charity. I was glad to help out there.

I've written a review of this cardigan at my 2BKnitting blog. You will find the format is similar to what you would see on PatternReview. Enjoy!

A Little Gardening

It looks like I won't be planting any annuals this year. No lovely Impatiens to brighten our walkway. Instead, I've been thinking of resourceful and practical plantings. Yesterday, I went to visit DH at the nursery to pick out some herbs for my mini garden. I quickly planted these before the sun went down.

I just love the variegated Basil that my DH picked out for me.

Lemon Thyme, Cilantro, and variegated Basil

As you can imagine the scents were absolutely devine when I freed them from their growing pots. In my planter, I mixed some Soil Moist into the soil then added a final 2"-3" layer of soil on top of that. I planted my herbs and sprinkled some Osmocote on top of the soil. I watered the planter thoroughly.

Parsley, Basil, and Thyme

This year, I've been cooking mostly Italian and Mexican dishes. Yes, we eat a lot of pasta (wheat) and beans around here. Fiber is good. I can't wait to start using these herbs in my dishes.


On the sewing front: I have to admit. I lost my sewing mojo. I know you can relate to this. I partially blame my knitting projects for that. Like a mad-woman, I knitted two cardigans at the same time. Guess what? The pieces are done. I will never do that again...knitting two at one time. Right now, I'm taking a breathing break before I start to seam the pieces. That's why you haven't seen any garment sewing-related posts from me. My SM is jealous of my knitting needles.

I do have some knit fabrics that need to be made into a maxi dress (the Simplicity pattern that's becoming a fave) and a few knit tops.

What a Beautiful Day!

I've been doing some sewing, but nothing earth shattering to post about. When I have days like today, chances are you will finding me sitting on the porch. Knitting. Unfortunately, I can't take my SM outside and sew. I'm sure my neighbors wouldn't appreciate the noise. So, I sit and knit and listen to all the birds singing and chirping.

Late this afternoon, DH and I sat outside to enjoy the beautiful day. He had some studying to do and I spent time with my knitting needles.



Here's a picture of my latest tote bag creation.



Filled to the brim with my knitting stuff. Believe it or not, I actually have two lace cardigans that I'm currently knitting in that bag.



It was a gorgeous day in my neck of the woods. How about yours?