knitting brings pure joy

happy new year

2012-01-01T20:55:00.002Z

Happy New Year to you. May God prosper you in 2012.

I pray that this year I will become a consistent blogger.

PEACE. LOVE. JOY

done it again...

2011-04-08T22:54:00.001+01:00

Just purchased i-pad2 :-)

ohhhhhhhhhhhh!

2011-03-26T17:57:00.001Z

I've been a bad, bad, bad blogger.

I'll promise to be good from now on...well I'll try:-)

happy new year

2011-01-01T22:42:00.001Z

Happy New Year to you.

I pray that God embraces you as you embrace 2011.

Shalom

i've bitten the bullet

2010-08-23T22:51:00.001+01:00

i've done it...i've purchased an i-pad :-)

eye candy

2010-02-27T21:39:00.006Z

Meet my first completed item of the knit battle between me and a dear friend and of 10in2010. I just luv...love...LOVE it. As I've said before "Knitting is not just for GRANNIES". Knitted from less than 1 skein of Malabrigo Sock Yarn:-)

My slogan

2010-02-18T23:09:00.002Z

"Knitting is not just for GRANNIES" A. Donker

opal the first

2010-01-10T19:18:00.002Z

Done.

Done at last, done at last, thank God almighty, DONE at last.

happy 2010

2010-01-01T21:48:00.007Z

Happy New Year to You. Not only is it a new year but also a new decade.

It has been a long time since I have blogged...sorry. I have been knitting though, but not as much as I would of liked. I wanted an incentive to help me in this area, so a friend and I have entered into a knitting war. The aim is to knit as many project as possible. The winner at the end of the year, Dec 31 2010 will receive a knitting related prize of their choice.

I am so excited. We are to still work through the final rules but we have already agreed on a few, one of them being, to count as a finished project the project must be entered onto Ravelry and blogged about. How cool is that?

Keep checking in here to see my progress. I must go now because I'm itching to cast on.

Stay blessed.

happy birthday babe

2009-10-29T11:53:00.002Z

It's my baby's birthday today, she's 18 today. Can you believe it I haven't even bought her a present yet...ouch.

And no this is not hers... it all mine... My Dinky Cape.

it's been a while

2009-10-24T13:17:00.001+01:00

I can't believe it's been months since I last blogged. Wow!

Well I'm back.

Speak to you soon.

uk ravelry day

2009-06-05T18:27:00.002+01:00

It's nearly here. In less than 15 hours I'll be on a coach leaving London and heading towards Coventry. I hope excitement doesn't keep me awake all night. Check back here soon as I'll have pictures up of the day.

God Bless. Speak to you soon.

it's here...A Beret Named...JOY

2009-05-09T12:59:00.003+01:00

Sorry it's been a lllooooooooog time since we've last spoken. Time just seems to run by and days merge into one. Anyway it's finally here...A Beret named...JOY. Yes, I've named by first published pattern after myself...JOY. Hope you like her as much as I do.

You can find her in Ravelry under A Beret named...JOY.

Joy

eye candy

2009-02-17T01:00:00.003Z

why so many?

2009-02-16T23:10:00.005Z

Sorry, I've been quiet for a while. What can I say? I got caught up in the busyness of life. It's amazing how quickly the days, weeks, months just past us by. Can you believe it, we are in the middle of February already.

Anyway, back to the knitting. Why did I call this entry 'Why so many?' If you cast your eyes over to the right you will see my Knitting Countdown List for 2009. I'm using this list to record all of this years knitting projects, both hand and machine knits. As you can see I've knitted 8 pairs of fingerless gloves and 6 button hats. This simple answer for the post title is...for sale. Yes, I've knitted the items to sell on my stall. In the next few weeks I'll be knitting multiply amounts of the same items because I've booked in for two crafts fairs that will be happening next month. All I've knitted for them so far are 4 cashmere scarves. I better get knitting.

Speak to you soon.

the scene outside

2009-02-02T16:57:00.006Z

Winter is here to stay, well for awhile. This is the scene outside my window this morning, the great white carpet had been laid by the great Almighty. Is't pretty?.............From inside a warm home.

These are just in time.

Little Arrowhead Neckwarmer

Thermis

For more pictures and information, come visit me at Ravelry.

Speak to you soon.

i'm on the way

2009-01-17T20:59:00.008Z

Completed.

fingerless gloves

fingerless gloves

wham bam neckwarmer

moss stitch scarf

For more detail check me out on Ravelry. See you there.

happy new year

2009-01-01T02:33:00.005Z

Happy New Year to you, may God grant you your heart desires in this coming new year.

During my stay in Spain I spent a lot of time reflecting on the past year and setting goals for this new year.

My knitting goals for this year...

To knit 200 hand/machine knitted items by 31 December 2009.
To knit 12 items for myself; 1 item each calendar month.
To knit 6 items for my daughter: 1 item every other month - Jan, Mar, May, Jul, Sep, Nov.
Keep you eye on this space and on Ravelry. I promise to have plenty of eye candy for you.

Have a prosperous New Year.

i'm back

2008-12-31T22:39:00.004Z

I've just got back from Spain. What a difference with the weather, London is much colder than Valencia. We spent Christmas in Pucol. It was kind of strange. Seeing and feeling the bright warm sunlight on Christmas Day.

This was part of our Christmas starter.........................

Valencia consisted of EATING, SLEEPING and of course KNITTING.

Stay Blessed and Have a great night.

one for him and one for her

2008-12-18T22:40:00.004Z

I'm off to Spain in the morning, so I thought I'd upload pictures of two of my latest garments. One for him and one for her. Both of the garments below are for clients. Ahhhhhhhhhhh... but hey the next 10 days knitting in Spain will be all for moi. That's right, some selfish Christmas knitting.

God Bless and have a wonderful Christmas and I'll speak to you in the new year. Keep those fingers moving and knit.

it's been forever and a day

2008-12-13T22:41:00.008Z

Sorry it's been so long, but here is some eye candy...

Speak to you soon.

my bad...

2008-08-29T02:54:00.002+01:00

Sorry Miss (my daughter); I forgot to publicly congratulate you on your GCSE results. Well

CONGRATULATIONS

(I've just shouted it out to the whole world)

My daughter obtained six A's and 4 B's.

A in Mathematics, English Literature, English Language, Art and Design, Textiles Technology and Media Studies
B in Biology, Physics, Chemistry and French.

Well done babes. Continue to focus and you'll be able to become and do whatever you dream.

Love you from Mum.

not the end I expected

2008-08-25T01:28:00.002+01:00

The Olympics and the life of my nephew ended yesterday.

Charles Junior Hendricks 24th May 1990 - 24th August 2008
aka CJ

He was fatally stabbed to death. Young people put down the knives, carrying a knife is not glamorous nor does it make you a man. You have just taken the life of a young innocent child.

Charles you are gone but will never be forgotten.

help

2008-08-23T00:16:00.003+01:00

Yes, I was over ambitious with the Ravelmpics. 8 projects in 17 days, what was I on ... surplus morphine from my operation must of been residing in my body.

I have only completed 5 of the projects so far. I'll post some pictures soon, hopefully tomorrow.

See you soon, I'm back on the knitting. I've only completed about 45% of my Forecast Inspired Coat.

HELP.

yet another one.................

2008-08-08T22:43:00.002+01:00

... fini.

ravelympics

2008-08-08T00:19:00.005+01:00

I've signed up for the Ravelympics.

In the starting block.................

Forecast Inspired Coat - Hand Knit
Floral Fan Neckwarmer - Crochet
Knotted Hat - Machine Knit
Baby's Round Neck Jumper - Machine Knit
Baby's Floral Round Neck Cardigan - Machine Knit
Baby's Floral Dress - Machine Knit
Frill Neckwarmer - Machine Knit
Adults Asymmetrical Polo Neck Jumper - Machine Knit

I wonder if I'm being over ambitious since all of these will be my own designs, and I'll have to swatch, write and knit all of them in 17 days.

I'm just waiting for the games to begin.

God Bless

on and off the needles

2008-07-24T18:16:00.003+01:00

On the needles .... I just love this pattern - Forecast. It's looking great, although the yarn is beginning to push me over the edge. I purchased it in Philadelphia last October and I think something had attacked it in the yarn store. The thing keeps breaking ... I WANT TO SCREAM. But I shall overcome.

I using the forecast pattern as a starting block and then going off in my own directions as my mind tells me to. So lets see what I'll end up with.

Here's what it looks like at the moment...

And just off the needles .... Another Slouchy Copy Cat Hat. I just love this pattern. This is the brightest one I've knitted so far.

I need to find another hat pattern to cast on tonight.

God Bless and Keep Knitting.

for you film fanatics

2008-07-07T12:02:00.002+01:00

If you enjoy short films you need to watch this.

finally

2008-07-06T19:44:00.004+01:00

I've finally cast on this....................Forecast.

It has been queued in my Ravelry notebook since 16th November 2007. Finally the time has arrived.

I'll keep you informed of my progress.

the yarn devourer is completed

2008-07-05T13:52:00.005+01:00

This creature devoured yarn like I've never seen before. It had me on on the edge of my sofa which had never happened to me before. This monster consumed 3.25 balls of Rowan Cocoon and 3.75 balls of Rowan Kid Classic. I finished with just 9cm of yarn to spare, knitting from your stash can be nail biting. But what a beauty!!!!!!!! I'm so looking forward to Autumn just to be able to wear this yarn devourer.

I've named her 'Ruffle Edged Scarf'. Would I make her again? Yep, but using slightly lighter weight yarns, as this baby weights a ton (well half a a kilo to be more exact). Imagine carrying that around your neck.

Well let me present to you the completed 'Ruffle Edged Scarf' formerly known as Morning Train Knock-Off Scarf by Megan Rogers.

without the pink frill

with the pink frill

on my daughters neck 1

on my daughters neck 2

on my daughters neck 3

I told you she's a beauty.

Just in case you want to make one. Here are the details:

Started: 6th June 2008

Completed: 4th July 2008

Pattern: The Morning Train Knock-Off Scarf

Materials: Rowan Cocoon and Rowan Kid Classic

Colour: Cairn and Pink

Needles: 5mm Circulars, 5mm and 8mm Hook

Modification: Frill until contented or out of yarn.

God Bless.

i'm off the operating table

2008-07-02T22:06:00.010+01:00

Hi ya.

I'm off the operating table and out of hospital. I'm at home now, being looked after by my mother and daughter. I can't tell you how bored I've been this last week.

I was a bit ambitious with what I wanted to achieve in hospital and only knitted half a beret, which had to be pulled out at a later date. I blame it all on the morphine. Boy, did it my head spin. On the day of the procedure I was self administering morphine into my system every 5mins and then slightly less on the following day. I HATE PAIN.

Anyway onwards with the recovery.

Since having being discharged, I've completed another slouchy copy cat hat. I just love this pattern, once I'm finished here I'm going to start another one.

Take a look at the pictures below and make up your own mind about the beret.

Started: 29th June 2008

Completed: 2nd July 2008

Pattern: The Slouchy Copy Cat Hat

Materials: Artesano Ltd 100% Alpaca DK

Colour: C743 Green with flecks of grey (yummy)

Needles: Knit Picks Interchangeable 3.5mm and 4.5mm circular needles

Modification: Started with 96st

I have to say this yarn is fantastic and this is my favourite version that I've knitted so far.

Speak to you soon.

i maybe quiet for a while

2008-06-22T22:42:00.004+01:00

Just to let you know that I maybe quiet for a while. I have to be at my local hospital for before 7am in the morning for surgery - I'm due to have a myomectomy. And I'm first in the queue ...NICE.

Keep checking back because I've just packed my hospital bag and it includes four knitting projects, two knitting books and one knitting magazine. I pray that the morphine works really well, because intend to leave that place with complete items.

See ya. Speak to you soon.

my new wip

2008-06-15T20:07:00.004+01:00

Hiya

I know I've been a bit quiet lately. Life here is very busy. Work, work and more work. I need sometime to play.

This was on my needles until yesterday, now I'm using my crochet hook on it. It's a scarf. I know we are almost in summer and I'm working on a scarf. Well the weather here is still lousy and so I'm preparing myself for winter.

I'm hoping it will be finished by the end of the week, but that will depend on my work load this week. I have a couple of hours until it's time for bed, so I'm off - need to get hooking with my crochet hook.

I will see you soon. God Bless

they speak for themselves

2008-06-05T16:10:00.004+01:00

............. meet Gretel.

it's my birthday

2008-06-04T23:31:00.009+01:00

Happy Birthday to me,
Happy Birthday to me,
Happpeeeeeeeeeee Birthday....Can you hear him singing? Mr Stevie Wonder himself.

In fact, it was last week Wednesday. Look at these small treasures that my postman delivered to help me celebrate the day, gifts from family members.

What else could a knitter ask for? YARN.

A friend (an ex knitter) asked me if I wanted anymore yarn. She was trying to get rid of her stash that she had managed to built up over the years. Of course I couldn't refuse. I ended up with about 15 black bin liners full of yarn. All I need now is a place in my home for them and about 6 more pairs of hands to knit it all up.

If you are reading this Ms H - THANK YOU once again.

I'm off, I need to get some knitting or reading or knitting or reading or knitting or reading done...........perhaps I'll try to do both at the same time.

Tomorrow I'll upload my latest project. It's almost finished, just about 10 rows to go.

God Bless.

i've done it

2008-05-21T23:28:00.004+01:00

I've done it. I've made my first sale on Etsy. The beautiful number below is on it's way to New Zealand. I wish I was travelling with it. Oh well, I can continue to dream.

I'll be back..............soon. See Ya.

etsy

2008-05-17T17:52:00.005+01:00

I've finally done it and uploaded some items in my Etsy Store. Yeah Yeah.

I'll upload more next week.

See Ya.

bad blogger, bad bad blogger

2008-05-11T20:20:00.004+01:00

I'm a bad, bad blogger. I forgot my first year blog anniversary:-(

It was the 27th April.

the latest creation

2008-05-11T18:59:00.006+01:00

Howdy,

I'm back as promised. It's a fantastic day today. The sun is out, people are smiling and I just want to be out there laying on a beach enjoying it all. Unfortunately the nearest sand to me right now is out on the balcony..................that's right, balcony. In my nephew's sand pit.

Anyway here is a picture of my latest project.

It will eventually become this. I'm using Brown Sheep Cotton fleece in Periot. It's really really nicccccccccccccce.

See you soon. God Bless.

hey, hey, hey

2008-05-10T14:02:00.000+01:00

Hey hey hey, I'm back.

Did you miss me? I hope so.

Tomorrow I'll post some pictures of my newest project.

God Bless.
Joy

please forgive me

2008-04-21T08:44:00.003+01:00

Please, please, please forgive me if I'm absent for a while. My laptop has just dead. I'm typing this entry at work, we have an inset day today and I'm early. Anyway back to the laptop, not even 3 years old yet and it cost me £1,800, for what!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Whats more annoying is that I hadn't backed it up for a while.

I'm off. Going to start researching new laptops. This time a cheaper model.

God Bless.

listening to advise

2008-04-18T23:11:00.006+01:00

It has been so long, nearly 1 whole month.

Where have you been? What have you been doing? I'm just guessing that these are a few of the questions that you may be asking. Well, I've been here, playing about with the batch of over twisted yarn (all 12.5 kilos of it). Telephone calls have been going back and forth between me, the yarn agent and the yarn manufacturer. With very little joy. I even sent a completed garment knitted from this batch of yarn. The yarn manufacturer replied saying 'there is nothing wrong with the yarn', their 'technicians' have tested the batch. Please.......I've used this yarn for the last four or five years, I'm no novice with it and there is definitely a problem here.

Can they not see!

So I sought advise from my knitting mentor......

"Knit on with confidence and hope, through all crisis" Elizabeth Zimmermann

Stay Bless and Highly Favoured.

Joy

work-in-progress

2008-03-23T23:44:00.007Z

Hello there.

It's been a long time since we've talked. Life is so busy at the moment, work, my business, my daughter; what can I say? I know, "Lord, I need an extra couple of hours in my day. How about it?" Anyway let me just get on with it, otherwise thats another 30 minutes or so lost.

I've been very productive this week and have completed 6 fine knit shawls. The 7th one is on the machine as we talk, but I'm bored with just going back and forth with the machine carriage so I'm taking a break from the knitting machine.

I plan to knit another 12 or 13 of these shawls over the next week or so. Let's see what this week has install for me.

In the earlier part of the week I knitted a baby's jumper (well one design but many samples). Now, this garment was one of my own designs, something I was experimenting with.

Sample Number 1 - REJECTED.

Sample Number 2 - REJECTED.

Sample Number 3 - REJECTED.

Now all three of these samples were coming up with the same issue. I thought the first two samples were errors I made, but after completing the third garment with the same problem I became a little suspicious. I later realised that the problem wasn't with the way that I was knitting the garments, but with the yarn. It had been over twisted, so once used it begun knitting on the bias. This was only evident once the garment was completed and I tried sewing them up. All the seams were twisted at an angle. Yikes!!!!!!!!!

Hopefully the problem will be solved after the Easter Weekend and the company where I purchased the yarn from will replace it. I mean it did cost me £350 give or take a few pennies.

Anyway God Bless. Remember that God loves you. He sent his only son, Jesus Christ to die for our sins. Now thats is true LOVE.

done!

2008-03-20T19:19:00.007Z

Some of my latest projects.

Hope you enjoyed them.

thank God spring is almost here

2008-03-16T16:18:00.006Z

Let me apologise now for yet another pictureless post. Hence the title 'thank God spring is almost here', and with spring we should begin to experience lighter and longer days. Then I'll be able to take some decent pictures of my finish pieces during the evening, once in from work.

This week I haven't been as industrious as last week. I've only made the following

4 baby blankets
2 felted organic looking scarves
1 baby's jumper (that I knitted twice and the pattern is still wrong)

Thank God for the invention of the knitting machine.

My LYS has moved to 106 Lower Marsh Street. Yes, I know, all you Iknit followers already know that, but there maybe someone else reading this who didn't know. But now they know, because I've just told them. Anyway they opened yesterday morning and I visited them last night after work (around 7pm). The new shop is FANTASTIC. More space for new stock:-)

Talking about new stock (stash for you and me) I've been really good. It's the middle of March and I haven't purchased anything this month. Oops. I've just remembered. I have!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I was just about to give myself a big pat on the back, for my great self control. Oh well there is always next month.

See ya. I'm going to have a afternoon nap, before starting work on some reports that I need to write.

God Bless.

i feel like the ant

2008-03-09T22:22:00.005Z

'The ants are a people not strong. Yet they prepare their food in the summer;' Proverbs 30 v 25a

Why you may ask. Well, this week I've machine knitted

11 baby blankets
1 shrug
1 pair of fingerless gloves

I've done this whilst working and running a part-time business, no wonder my head is aching right now. I NEED TO SLEEP.

I'm off.

the power of transformation

2008-03-07T01:31:00.008Z

We are so blessed. God has not only given us life, but also the creative ability to transform and to create. It's so awesome what we can do.

I turned this....................

into this..................................................

elbow length fingerless gloves

They're still a work-in-progress.

I can't and won't take the credit for this pattern because it's not mine. But I will say THANK YOU to all of you knitters out there who from the kindness of your heart publish your creations for others like me to use. Thank You once again.

Once finished, I'll update you with pictures of the completed item and I'll give you the full rundown of what yarn and needles I used. I guess you already know the yarn that I'm using from the picture above. Yes, it's another Cascade 220 creation.

Keep watching this space, because I'll be posting some freebies soon.

May God continue to bless you with creativity.

double take

2008-03-03T21:19:00.005Z

You've seen it before, back in September 2007. I just decided to knit it again in two new colours.

Enjoy.

Speak to you soon.

another flying visit

2008-02-29T23:19:00.009Z

Just popped in for a flying visit. Sorry for yet another short post, but it's late and I'm tired, it's beeeeeeeeeeeen a long day. Anyway I've lots of projects that I need to share with you, so I'm just going to post some pictures of a couple of them now. One pattern two different looks.

Here we go.........................Ready? I hope so.

Let me introduce you to............. Felicity the First and Felicity the Second.

These were both fun and fast items to knit (taking a couple of days each). I did make one modification to the pattern, I casted on 90sts instead of the amount stated on the pattern.

Stay Blessed.

antigua

2008-02-28T21:46:00.009Z

As soon as I saw this shot it reminded me of my trip to Antigua in Oct 2006. Antigua has beautiful sandy beaches with crystal blue water and clear sky. Ohhhhhhhhhhhhh, how I miss the sun, sea and people.

In fact, this picture is one of the blankets that I knitted a couple of days ago - A Blanket for Him Version 2. I'll take some pictures of the one for her once it has been blocked. Blocking is like magic, it changes nothing into something so special.

The blanket took about 1 hour to knit, this one of the joy's of machine knitting - it's speed.

Enjoy the beauty of this simple creation.

Pattern: Baby Blanket for Him Version 2 (My Own)

Material: 100% Lambswool

Colour: Dark Natural, Ullapool and Hydra

Machine: Brother 940 Standard Gauge

Started and Finished: Monday 25th February 2008

On the needles, or shall I say needle since I'm using a circular needle, which is perfect for this project (fingerless gloves) as it's only 22cm in length. More about the project later.

See ya. Have a great night.

God Bless.

i'm on a roll

2008-02-25T21:30:00.006Z

Yea Yea. I'm doing it.

Some people say self praise is no praise, but even God stepped back and admired his handiwork. He thought it was good; and it was. My last two creations are also good.

I have just completed two simple machine knitted baby blankets. They are in the washing machine at the moment. Although they are simple (good old stockinette) they look adorable, all I need now are twins to place into/onto them.

You'll be able to see them for yourself after they are blocked.

Hopefully I'll be able to take some decent pictures of them by the end of the week.

Last night I also started Evangeline in Cascade 220 after being inspired by tiennie knits. I only managed 10 rows though, so I'm off to work on them.

Have a great night. Love Joy.

one for him, one for her

2008-02-23T00:13:00.010Z

More baby blankets. This time one for him and one for her. The reason behind the gender blankets - memories.

Strangers kept calling my beautiful daughter a him :-(

It wasn't her fault she was almost competely bold for the first eighteen months of her life. Thank God her hair decided to grow and now she has a full head of hair.

Pattern: Pram Blanket (My Own)

Material: Forsell 4ply Anti-Tickle Pure Wool

Colour: Chocolate, Blue and Pink

Machine: Brother 940 Standard Gauge Machine

Started and Completed: Monday 4th February 2008

Keeping Knitting.

just another quickie

2008-02-21T00:53:00.004Z

Why is life so hetic at times? I feel like I'm running here, there and everywhere. Hence just another quick pit stop. Here are a couple of snap shots of one of the pram blankets I knitted last week.

A quick and satisfying knit, which took just a couple of hours from start to finish (excluding the washing and drying time).

Knitted on my good and faithful Brother 940.

I know; not the traditonal baby colours some of you are used to seeing, but I have to say I'm not a fan of pastels or white. I often used strong earthy colours for my baby knits as well as items I may create for adults. Here I've used khaki, a sort of teal and chocolate, just my cup of tea (I hope it's yours too).

The blanket measures 60 x 100 cm.

Pattern: Pram Blanket (My Own)

Material: Forsell 4ply Anti-Tickle Pure Wool

Colour: Chocolate, Teal and Khaki

Machine: Brother 940 Standard Gauge Machine

Started and Completed: Tuesday 5th February 2008

See You Soon. God Bless

ouch!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-02-16T12:24:00.003Z

My pocket has been hurt. Yep more stash.

1 cone of Habu 100% silk
2 balls of Rowan Felted Tweed
1 skein of Manos del Uruguay Silk Blend

I need to get my needles out as I planning to drive about 180 miles to a mill tomorrow to look at(buy) more yarn.

See ya.

life's too short...............

2008-02-11T12:17:00.000Z

The turdora has been frogged.

It was a fantastic stash busting project to knit, but I hated the way it looked around my neck. Ahhhhhhhhhhhh! Well onto the next project.

I'm wiping away a tear as I sign out.

tudora

2008-02-10T17:22:00.000Z

It's done. That's right.................. acabado (well the knitting at least). Acabado is spanish for completed, well that's what my spainish sister-in-law told me. She could tell me anything I would be none the wiser.

I started the tudora on Friday and finished the knitting yesterday. I'm in the middle of crocheting all around the edge in a contrast colour and will finish that tonight. It's looking fantastic. The pattern was so simple to follow and easy to read. Hopefully I'll post some pictures very soon as I have a few completed items that I want to share with you.

God Bless.

busy, busy, busy, lots of wip

2008-02-05T17:30:00.000Z

Hello Everyone. How are ya?

I've been extremely busy knitting away on my knitting machine in the evenings after a loooooooooong day at school. I've been using my machine as a stress reliever, not sure if it was the most appropriate tool to use at times as we had issues with each other. Anyway I've completed knitting the following.......

a round neck cardi (pictured below)
a raglan jumper
a wrap cardi
2 blankets

.............. all these being baby's items. All the knitting have been completed awaiting the grafting, washing and finishing. Guess what I'll be doing this weekend? That's right, you've got it and hopefully I'll have all the pictures uploaded next week.

God Bless. Keep those knitting needles clicking or that carriage moving (for all of us machine knitters)

i caved in

2008-01-31T21:43:00.000Z

Ouch! I've caved in and purchased more yarn. Yet another addition to my stash, this time it's a skein of Manos del Uruguay silk blend in colour 6828. It's absolutely lovely. I'm going to cast on tomorrow morining once I find a pattern on Ravelry tonight.

I first spotted the yarn last week at my LYS - Iknit, when I attended one of their knitting nights. I was able to resist it that night but not for long. I wander if I need a rehab for my yarn purchasing!!

Anyway I'm off to visit the Ravelry site; this will be the second time for today.

See ya.

the progress so far

2008-01-30T18:32:00.001Z

Just some more pictures for you to see. Have you guessed what it is yet?

See you soon.

look at what i've started

2008-01-29T20:08:00.001Z

I've just started another beautiful creation with the help of one of my many knitting machines. Can you guess what it is???????? I'm going to leave you guessing.

Come back in a few days to see if you were right when some more pictures will have been posted.

Keep Guessing. God Bless.

yet another one

2008-01-27T18:13:00.000Z

Hi, how you doing? Pray well.

You're not dreaming; it's another Slouchy Copy Cat Hat. It's like an obsession, well I like the stitch pattern. The stitch definition in Cascade 220 is just fantastic and it grows so quickly. Let's see if this is the last one.

So far the pink one is my favourite, but this one has been my quickest knit; just one day.

Pattern: The Slouchy Copy Cat Hat

Material: 1 skein of Cascade 220 100% Peruvian Wool

Colour: Purple shade 7803

Needles: 4mm and 5mm Addi Circulars

Modification: Casted on extra 8 sts.

Started: 18th January 2008

Completed: 18th January 2008

It you haven't knitted one yet, give it a try. Enjoy.

God Bless.

off the needles

2008-01-18T14:33:00.000Z

Just a few pictures of my latest creation - The Anthropologie-Inspired Capelet.

Here it is again off the needles and now on with the hook. I'm going to crochet around the neck, front and sleeves.

See ya soon. God Bless.

i'm still here

2008-01-17T18:33:00.000Z

Sorry for not posting in a while, because of the weather here I've been unable to take decent pictures and I don't like posting without a picture. Not that I haven't posted without a picture before, but my preference is to have a picture with each post.

Anyway I managed to take this shot. A close-up of my first knit of 2008 - another Utopia.

This was knitted in a couple of days, talk about instead gratification. Well almost. For more information on this project have a look at the one I knitted in December as the only difference being the colour.

Presently I have a few projects on my needles, Santi's Tomtem Jacket, my Harwood Coat, The Trinity Stitch Beret and a Capelet, that just needs it's edges crochet and some embellishments.

One of my prayers this year is to produce as many beautiful creations as possible. I wander how many that means?????????????

I'll talk to you soon. God Bless.

happy new year

2008-01-01T15:07:00.000Z

I wish you all a very Happy New Year. I pray that this year will be your year of victory.

My 2008 Knitting Goal ...................... to knit 1 hand knitted garment per month.

God Bless.

just in time

2007-12-31T15:53:00.001Z

This will be my last completed project for the year - The Utopia Hat. I just loved knitting this creation, just as much as I love my postman, although because of this festive season I haven't seen him as frequently as I'm accustom to. I'm still waiting for two deliveries, one being more yarn (or course) and a full set of Knit Pics circular needles. What else could a knitter need?

Anyway, back to the project. It was such a quick little knit. I used Cascade 220 and a 3.75mm and 5mm circulars. As I said before, I loved knitting the Utopia and more importantly the recipient my daughter loves it. The colour is a exact match to her school coat, so this little number has become part of her school uniform. How sweet!

This morning (2.30 am to be exact) when I completed my daughter's Utopia, I rushed to my yarn bin and dug up some more Cascade to cast on straight away for another one. This one's going to be mine.

Enjoy the pic of my last completed creation for 2007.

Utopia on the sofa.

A perfect fit. And I looked and said "It is good"

Pattern: Utopia Hat

Material: Cascade 220 100% Peruvian Wool

Colour: 4002 Dark Charcoal

Needles: 3.75mm and 5mm Addi Circular Needles

Modification: Ribbing using 3.75mm for 1.2 inches and and addition cable in the lower high of the hat

Started: 29th December 2007

Completed: 30th December 2007

There's only a little over 7 hours left of this year. I'm so excited about 2008, life is awesome and just imagine what we can achieve with our precious gift of creativity. Remember if you can conceive it you can achieve it. Start dreaming about all those beautiful creations you want to create next year with your precious hands.

May God give you all the desires of your heart. God Bless and Keep Knitting.

Joy

i've been shopping again

2007-12-30T17:26:00.000Z

Ouch! I been shopping again. This time in the John Lewis SALE.

Heartfelt Pattern Book
Noro Pattern Book
10 balls of Noro Cash Iro
10 balls Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Superchunky
14 balls RYC Baby Alpaca DK

I may have to go on a yarn diet in the New Year.

Speak to you tomorrow. God Bless.

merry christmas

2007-12-25T11:03:00.000Z

I wish you a 'Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year' (can you hear me singing).

Remember to take a few moments out to reflect on why we celebrate CHRISTmas. God gave us (the world) his best gift, his only son Jesus Christ to save our sins.

Now this is love! Let us not forget to show our appreciation by saying a simple 'Thank You'.

God Bless

the seven day challenge is over

2007-12-24T13:46:00.000Z

My self inflicted seven day challenge is over, well, it was over from last week Thursday. It's amazing what you can achieve when you set goals and give yourself a time refrain. This is what I was able to create within the seven days; I had to pat myself on the back, considering I was also working and I'm not the faster knitter as I tend to send a lot of time frogging. May God deliver me from this.

Anyway, cast your eyes on these lovely head warmers - hats.

Completed Item 1 - The Slouchy Copy Cat Hat.

I love this stitch pattern. It's so easy to memorise and just look at it's definition in Cascade 220. This colour is also awesome.

Pattern: The Slouchy Copy Cat Hat

Materials: 1 Skein of Cascade 220 100% Peruvian Highland Wool

Colour: 8834 Pink

Needles: 4mm and 5mm Addi Circulars

Started: Friday 14th Dec 2007

Completed: Sunday 16th December 2007

Modifications: I casted on an extra 8 sts.

Completed Item 2 - The Le Slouch

I've knitted this pattern before but, I just had to knit it again. This is a must have for this season - a beret and the yarn feels just like a soft cotton.

Pattern: My Adaptation of Le Slouch (see previous entry)

Materials: 2 balls of Rooster Almerino Aran

Colour: Sky Blue

Needles: 4mm and 5.5mm Addi Circular Needles

Started: Monday 17th December 2007

Completed: Wednesday 19th December 2007

I also added 3 buttons of various sizes for decoration.

..............................and finally I was able to complete this

So I've had a very productive week. Let's see what I can create and complete between today and NEW YEARS EVE.

Have a bless and productive day.

day two of the seven day challenge - i really really love my postman

2007-12-15T16:46:00.000Z

Look at what my postman delivered this morning; Elizabeth Zimmermann and Meg Swansen's A Knitting Glossary DVD, 4 hours of nothing but knitting. What else could a knitter want? More yarn!!!!!!!! It has already made it's debut in my DVD player. A Knitting Glossary is a must for all knitters who want to develop their knitting skill.

Day 2 of The Challenge - The Slouchy Copy Cat Hat

Just thought I'd show you a couple of snap shots of what I started last night.

The first shot is a truer colour of the yarn, Cascade 220 Wool in Shade 8834 a beautiful dusky rose pink. I'm off back to my knitting, so much to be done and only 5 days left.

God Bless. In the words of Elizabeth 'Keep on Knitting'.

yet another!!!!!!!!!!

2007-12-14T21:33:00.000Z

I've casted on for another new project. I won't tell you what it is yet :-) so you'll have to come back, if your interested. But I've set myself a challenge - The Seven Day Knit. To see how many garments that I can knit and complete within 7 days.

See ya. There's knitting to be done.
God Bless.

i've done it again

2007-12-09T20:32:00.000Z

Yesterday I went to my LYS - IKnit; to buy a stitch holder, and walked out with these..........

8 balls of Rowan Big Wool
4 balls of Rowan Cocoon
12 Skeins of Artesano Aran

and this.........................

Rowan Studio Issue Number 6 (Royal College of Art special edition) pattern book and a receipt for £145. I intend to knit the cardigan shown. Oh yea I left without the stitch holder that I originally went there for. I suppose I can't have it all, or can I?

I'll be busy over Christmas, working my little fingers.

Stay Bless.

i just couldn't help myself

2007-12-07T00:12:00.000Z

It's 12.12am but I was so inspired by this , I just had to cast on the stitches now.

Oh man! What time will I be going to bed now? I've work in the morning. Bother. But knitters must knit on.

God Bless. I'm out of here.

i love my postman

2007-12-06T15:38:00.000Z

I so love my postman. This week he brought me these......................

.............well these are just part of what he delivered. The total delivery included 5 knitting books (I can't show you the others as they are Christmas presents for people who read my blog) and 17 skeins of Cascade 220 in 6 different colours. The postal service here is fantastic. I ordered the yarn late Saturday afternoon and they were here by Tuesday morning, and they were coming from a different city.

I was inspired by this so I've already started it, the Modular Tomten Jacket for my nephew Santi. It's part of his Christmas present (it's OK, my brother and sister-in-law don't have access to the Internet, so it's safe to post this now). This is such a quick little knit and the stripping is keeping me from becoming bored. I'm just adding colour randomly and if I don't like the last row, frogging it back and re-knitting using a different colour. The only problem will be all of the ends that I will need to weave in. Oh well! That's for another day.

After reading about the great late Elizabeth Zimmermann, I just had to do one of her patterns. Yea, I know! You may be asking; 'What about the Baby Surprise Jacket?' Well that has been laid to rest. It was one of those where I was not fully satisfied with the yarn and pattern combination.

At least I love my latest creation, a gift made by my own hands for my gorgeous nephew.

God Bless and Keep Knitting.
Joy

decisions, decisions, decisions

2007-12-02T16:39:00.001Z

I want to order some new yarn 100% Cashmere. I've never used this yarn and I'm not sure which colours to order, but I need to get it right as it cost between £105 - £125 per kilo depending on the colour. Ordering 5 - 6 colours + VAT will cost me a few pretty pennies.

Should I order .............. Celadon or Sapphire or Misty Cliffs or Lavandula or Wisteria or Rapture or Rosewater or Amoroso or Marie Antoinette or Chanterelle or Oatmeal or Porcupine or Wildebeest or Dark Medium Dyed or Kelp or Rosine or Ombre Rose.

Decisions. Decisions. Decisions. Helllllllllllllllllllllp.

Keep Knitting.

it's a wrap

2007-12-01T22:35:00.001Z

I'm going to try to post more frequently this month. It should be possible considering that I'll have two weeks off work soon. And I'm going to do nothing but hand knit. Well, that's the plan. Lets hope I succeed.

Here's a little something that I knitted about 3 weeks ago. It's based on the same principle of the felted scarf that I knitted back in September. I used my favourite machine knitting yarn 2/14 100% Geelong Lambswool (it's sooooooo soft, people often ask if it is cashmere) and then felted it in the washing machine on a 60 degree wash.

Pattern: My Own

Yarn: 100% Geelong Lambswool

Colour: Kilim

Machine: Brother 940 Standard Gauge

Started and Completed: In One Day

There's not much more to tell you about it except that it's so warm. I'm not sure who is going to be the lucky recipient of this wonderful little thing. We'll just have to wait and see.

On my needles at the moment - The Baby Surprise Jacket by Elizabeth Zimmermann. Well, it was on my needles until about 10 mins ago. I've just ripped it out again, for the third time. Pray for me. Hopefully I'll have more success the next time I cast on those 160 sts ;-(

Keep those needles clicking until the next time.

God Bless and Happy Knitting.

two more hats

2007-11-30T19:39:00.001Z

From the sun coming in at the window you wouldn't know that it's cold here. Well it is, I have been wear my thermals for about 6 weeks now, but shhhhhhhh don't tell anyone. Anyway lets get back to the knitting.

Here are two newish projects, both knitted on my standard gauged knitting machine. One pattern but two looks.

Hat No 1 - One Colour with ribbon and embellishment

Hat No 2 - Multi Coloured Stripes

Both of these hats were knitted using 100% Geelong Lambswool and quick and easy to knit.

Pattern: My Own

Yarn: 100% Geelong Lambswool

Colours: Variety

Machine: Brother 940 Standard Gauge

Started and Completed: Both in One Day

Hope you enjoy the hats, now back to the knitting. Speak to you soon.

God Bless.

they're almost here

2007-11-18T21:50:00.000Z

Both Winter and Christmas are almost here. In preparation for both of them I've knitted this hat, I'm not sure who is going to be the recipient of this little gift. It was knitted on my standard gauge knitting machine with a single snow motif placed in the middle.

the hat

Pattern: My Own

Yarn: Forsell 4ply Machine washable Anti-Tickle Pure Wool

Colours: Denim and Sky Blue

Machine: Brother 940 Standard Gauge

Started and Completed: 1 Day

See ya .............................happy knitting.

sorrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrry...........please forgive me

2007-11-11T17:04:00.000Z

It has been about 5 weeks since my last post. I am so sorry, please forgive me. Things here have been...............well lets say a bit busy, but I have still been knitting, mostly machine knitting. Oh yea I also went to New York for 8 days. Well it was my daughter's 16th birthday present. Children are not cheap. I did manage to visit some yarn shops in New York but not as many as I wanted to. Also I missed Rhinebeck. How I cried. We were up nice and early the Sunday morning to go but in my excitement we jumped on the number 62 going in the wrong direction from Newark International Airport away from Newark Penn Station. We needed to get to Newark Penn Station to get the Path train into New York Penn Station to then catch the train to Rhinebeck. And of course because of the mistake I made we missed the train to Rhinebeck by minutes. Maybe next year.

Anyway, have a look at what is on my needles, or shall I say needle since I am using a circular needle. A mock rib beret. I have already completed one in school grey and I'm on my second one in beige. A very quick and easy project.

A close up of the stitch pattern.

Pattern: The Slouchy Copy Cat Hat

Materials: Cascade 220 100% Peruvian Highland Wool

Colour: 4002 and 7821

Needles: 4mm and 5mm Addi Circular Needles

Started and Completed: 2 days in October

Anyway I am out of here. Stay Blessed and Happy Knitting.

PS If you want a laugh I would recommend that you read 'The Yarn Harlot' by Stephanie McPhee.

just a quickie

2007-09-30T22:46:00.001+01:00

Pictures as promised - another finished item.

This is my favourite scarf pattern. Over the last couple of years I have knitted approximately 30-40 of this organic looking scarf. It is an original pattern created by myself, and the pictures below are of the latest one that I have knitted.

Pattern: My Own

Material: 100% Lambswool

Colour: Off White

Machine: Brother 940 Standard Gauge

Started and Completed: 26th Sept 2007

Orders for the scarf can be taken, the scarf is available in a wide range of colours. You can use my email address to contact me for further details.

Goodnight and God Bless. Keep on knitting.

i,m back

2007-09-28T19:40:00.000+01:00

How I missed you all. It was no fun not having access to my blog. Anyway I used my time constructively and spent it knitting, both by hand and machine. Hey I need a big pat on my back. Over the next few days I will be sharing all of my beautiful creations with you.

Here is the first one. A wip (work-in-progress for all you non-knitters).

the front collar

the side

a close up of the stitch pattern

Well it has been a work in progress since last December. I actually place it aside thinking we were going to have a summer this year - and we didn't. I could of worn the cardi all summer if I had completed it. Anyway my target is to complete it in the next few weeks. The reason why I won't be able to finish it sooner is because I will be exhibiting at a craft fair next week and I'm busy working towards that, alongside my job. By the way I'm a Primary School Teacher and life can become rather busy with all the little people.

Happy Knitting. God Bless Joy

no internet

2007-09-20T17:12:00.000+01:00

Sorry for the delay in posting all the latest creations by my hands. "I can't believe it" - I have no INTERNET at the moment. The power cable for my laptop has died, so I have no way of recharging it's battery - BUM. That all I can say.

I have one piece of good new though. I received my invitation today for Ravelry, but alas no access. I am actually typing up this entry from work.

What am I going to do?????????????????????

See ya, from a disappointed blogger.

completed at last

2007-08-31T20:10:00.000+01:00

Here is another machine knitted item. It only took about 10 mins to knit and about a week to complete (to wash and to sew on the buttons and label). I know..........that's terrible. Anyway, it is completed at last. The words of Dr Martin Luther King Jr is ringing in my ears right now; 'Free at Last, Free at Last, Thank God Almighty, I'm Free at Last'. That's how I feel, I'm free of this project, not that it took long to knit, but for me to get my act together to complete it.

Sorry. You don't know what is is yet! See if you can guess from the next three pictures.

Picture Number 1 - The item rolled up on the dining table.

Picture Number 2 - A close up of the stitch pattern.

Picture Number 3 - The item with the button markers in place.

The above three pictures are of the item just off the knitting machine and unwashed. Do you know what it is yet? I'll give you a clue. It's to be worn in the winter and is made out of 75% Angora and 25% Lambswool and is approximately 36cm by 10cm in size and will have 8 buttons.

Picture Number 4 - Washed and with the buttons in place.

Picture Number 5 - A close up of the buttons.

It's a Neck Warmer. The last two pictures shows it in it's full glory and is modelled by my beautiful daughter. This is a fantastic project to use up all those small ounces of yarn that us knitters can't bare to throw out, especially when it is a beautiful natural fibre. Also you don't have to go out and buy a card of buttons, just use whatever you can lay your hands on.

Happy Knitting. God Bless and why don't you be a blessing to someone today by knitting them a gift.

let me introduce you to Santiago

2007-08-21T23:37:00.000+01:00

Before I introduce you to Santiago, I thought I'll let you in on what's on my needles at the moment - my third adaption of Le Slouch in less than 2 weeks. I think this one is going to be the final one for now, although it's a fantastic and quick little knit.

Anyway, this is 9 months old Santiago (Yea, yea, yea you've guessed it, his half Spanish, well with a name like Santiago his needs to be). He's my nephew and the latest addition to my long and ever growing list of nephews and nieces (I have 19 in total).

Santiago is sooooooooooo cute. God is so awesome, just look at this wonderful work of his hands.

So I just had to knit him one of these......................... an I'm cute hat, in preparation for winter.

Santiago: "I've had enough of all this modelling stuff. All I hear is Santiago look here. Santiago. Santi. Enough is enough."

And here it is again, off the head.................

and the inside.
Santiago: "This one is more like it."

Both of these hats are original designs, knitted on my knitting machine using Forsell 4ply Machine Washable Anti-Tickle Pure Wool.

Pattern: My Own

Material: Forsell 4ply Machine Washable Anti-Tickle Pure Wool

Colours: Olive, Pistachio and Maroon

Machine: Standard Gauge 940

Started and Completed: Both in 1 day.

Good Bless and Happy Knitting, I'll speak to you soon.

machine knitted

2007-08-16T02:06:00.000+01:00

As promised, pictures of my machine knitted scarf. Machine knitting is just as enjoyable as hand knitting and you have the added bonus of it's speed. This scarf took less than an hour to knit from start to finish.

Pattern: My Own

Material: 2/14nm 100% Geelong Lambswool

Colour: Almond and Porcupine

Machine: Standard Gauge Brother 940

Started and Completed: 3rd August 2007

God Bless and don't forget to enjoy your life today.

le slouch adaption

2007-08-15T23:02:00.000+01:00

I'm preparing myself for winter again, like we've even had a summer this year! Where has the sun gone? Summer has been miserable this year. Well, less of me moaning and lets celebrate my latest finished object.

My adaption of Le Slouch.

What a quick and fantastic little knit, taking only two days to complete. Hence I've already started another one, in no other colour than................. that's right, you've guessed it........ PINK.
I have a thing about chocolate and pink at the moment.

This beret was worked in Rooster Almerino Aran yarn and what a dream to work with. It was worth every penny of the £4.75 per ball, it's sooooooooooo soft.

Anyway less of my chat. I'll just let you feast your eyes on the rest of the pictures.

The Rib............The Adornment............The Decreases..........

Pattern: My Adaption of Le Slouch

Materials: 2 balls of Rooster Almerino Aran

Colour: Mushroom

Needles: Addi 5.5mm Circular

Finishing: 3 buttons

Started: 6th August 2007

Completed: 7th August 2007

Oh sorry, I forgot to show you theses in my last post. Pink mother of pearl buttons I bought at Get Knitted in Bristol on Saturday.

Back to my knitting.

God Bless.

additions to my stash

2007-08-13T23:05:00.000+01:00

Like I need more yarn. Friday night I decided I was going to travel the 120 miles to Bristol, to attend Get Knitted's Yarn Sale. So I set my alarm for 5.15am.

By 6am Saturday morning I was on my way to Victoria Coach Station to catch the 7am coach to Bristol. What a journey! The man seated next to me was asleep within 10 mins and his head kept threatening to rest itself on my shoulder. I was not impressed.

Anyway Get Knitted made up for my long, noisy (my snoring neighbour) and uncomfortable journey. Let me introduce you to the latest additions to my ever growing yarn stash.............

1 ball of Rowan Kidsilk Haze

5 skeins of Cascade 220

20 balls of Debbie Bliss' Merino Aran

8 balls of Debbie Bliss' Cotton Cashmere

4 Balls of Rooster Almerino Aran

20 balls of Jo Sharp Super Soft Pure Wool

Plus theses...................

All I need now is help to knit it all up (I'm smiling now).

Well God Bless and Happy Knitting.

don't tell anyone

2007-08-03T22:10:00.000+01:00

I'm going to let you into a secret.......................Please don't tell anyone. Promise? Well, here goes....I machine knit. Yes, you've heard right - I AM A MACHINE KNITTER.

Let me introduce you to one of my many babies, I say babies because I have 7 different knitting machines, ranging from fine to chunky gauge. This is one of my standard gauge machines, a Brother 940 with it's ribber.

I'll let the pictures tell you the rest of the story.

In a couple of days time I will post some pictures of the finished item once it has been washed and blocked.

God Bless.

finished object - cloud bolero

2007-07-31T19:00:00.000+01:00

As promised here are some pictures of my latest creation - Cloud Bolero. I'm sorry that the pictures are slightly blurry. I actually finished the garment on Saturday night and wore it to church the following morning. I was amazed that so many people commented on it (all women I hasten to say).

The pattern was an easy one to knit once I got into the rhythm of the pattern, but nevertheless I had to start the garment several times. I am just beginning to realise that watching t.v and me knitting is not a good combination. Hence the many mistakes.

Nevertheless here she is.

Picture Number 1 - The Front.

I made several alterations to the original pattern, ranging from using a different size needle, lengthening the garment (I still wanted it longer but ran out of yarn and later found out that the colour was discounted as I bought in the sales about 4 weeks early I was unable to purchase anymore) and finally, I completed a row of double crochet around the front band and neck edge.

Picture Number 2 - The Neck Edge.

And finally..............

Picture Number 3 - The Back.

Pattern: Cloud Bolero
Material: Debbie Bliss Alpaca Silk

Needles: Addi 6mm 40cm Circular

Finishing: Double Crochet around the edges and 3 pink Mother of Pearl buttons

Started: 7th July 2007

Completed: 28th July 2007

it is done

2007-07-28T20:10:00.000+01:00

My cloud bolero is finally done and it is very good.

Just as in Genesis 1 when God had finished creating each section of our world, he 'stepped' back and looked and saw that it was good. That's what I'm doing now, admiring my creation.

I'll post some pictures and more details about this piece of handiwork in the next couple of days. Now I'm going to rest (well dream about my next creation).

God Bless.

mohair corsage

2007-07-22T20:17:00.000+01:00

I spent the morning in the hairdressers yesterday, and rather than wasting my time sleeping underneath the steamer and the hairdryer I decided to make something.

And here is the result of one hours work......................

a mohair corsage.

You maybe asking is it knitted or crochet. Opps. Did I just swear? Sorry knitters it isn't knitted. Yes, I did crochet it......................and I enjoyed every minute of it too.

Here is a close up of the centre of the corsage.

And now an edge............

........................................................................ and another.

Pattern: My own

Material: Rowan Kid Silk Haze (70% Super Kid Mohair and 30% Silk)
Hook: 4mm

Finishing: Brooch back
Started and Completed: 21st July 2007

Rowan Kid Silk Haze is a dream to work with, with it's versatile fibre mix that helps it create a lustrous, cobweb like finish.

Well back to my knitting - Cloud Bolero.

Speak to you soon. God Bless. Continue to use those hands that God blessed you with to be a blessing to both others and yourself.

more work-in-progress

2007-07-17T21:14:00.001+01:00

I thought I will quickly touch base with you and give you a sneak preview of what's on my knitting needles.........Cloud Bolero.

A close up

and again, but this time on some waste yarn.

I'll post some more pictures by the end of the week.

goodies

2007-07-06T20:39:00.000+01:00

I'm back. I have to say I've missed blogging, it's been well over a week.

I need to share my new treats with someone, and I've decided to share them with you.

After reading about Elizabeth Zimmermann on most of the blogs that I visit, I thought I'd treat myself to a few of her materials. Both The Opinionated Knitter and Knitting Workshop came from Amazon.com and Knitter's Almanac is from Ebay. They arrived just under a week ago, and can't (well won't) put them down. Hence I'm behind on my knitting, hey at least I'm reading about knitting.

Talking about knitting. I need to tell you something. What? You may be asking. Well, after knitting about 10 inches of Camellia in a finer yarn than recommended, I realised that I didn't like it in the finer yarn. What a waste of time. I'm going to try it again at a later date using a much thicker and heavier yarn.

Back to some knitting.

God Bless.

work-in-progress

2007-06-26T19:53:00.000+01:00

As promised pictures of what will be my Camellia Sweater .................

.........sorry that the pictures are so dark.

I will have to modify the pattern completely. The pattern calls for a bulky yarn and I am using Debbie Bliss Cotton Angora, but hey it is looking great so far. I will keep you updated.

God Bless.

decisions, decisions, decisions

2007-06-21T21:29:00.000+01:00

Sorry for the delay with this post.

I have just started to make some progress with my new project - the camellia sweater. It has only taken me 12 days. I can't believe how often I changed my mind regarding this project. Not with whether I liked it or no, because I LOVE IT, but with what yarn to use. I must of started it at least 3 or 4 times and each time not being satisfied with the result. I tried starting another project which caused me so much grief that I finally decided to move back to the original project that I had in mind.

I'll post some pictures of my w.i.p before the end of this week.

God Bless. See ya.

one skein wonder and more

2007-06-09T19:18:00.000+01:00

I'm back. Well, I've always been here, just busy with life and work (the joys of employment). I've just finished my 3rd OSW. The first one was too small for either my daughter or myself, so it went to a friend's daughter as a gift. The second one was for my daughter and finally the 3rd one for me. Yippeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee.

Anyway here are some pictures to delight your eyes. Well, I hope so, because they delighted mine, probably because they were made with my very own hands. I am proud of my handiwork. Here they are:

from this - Debbie Bliss Cotton Angora

to this - my One Skein Wonder. Doesn't it look good on my dining table. Say yes.

Now me modelling my OSW. First front shoulder, then.............................

the back.

I modified the pattern slightly. Instead of the edgings suggested I did a double crochet around the arm and the body, decreasing 4 chains each row to prevent it from flaring.

A close up of the edging.

This was a great little knit.

I visited my local yarn store today - Iknit and came home with this.............

Artesano Hummingbird 100% Alpaca in Lovebird colourway. Not sure what it will become yet but just had to buy it.

Just wanted to show you these..............some brooches I had made not to long ago. Oh how so cute.

Anyway got to go now. About to start my Camellia Sweater.

God Bless. Speak to you soon.

oops

2007-05-08T19:34:00.000+01:00

It's finished. My One Skein Wonder. Unfortunately it's too small. I'm going to have to give it to my friends daughter; by the way, she's only nine. The next one needs to be at least two sizes bigger.

To cheer myself up I'm going to indulge my eyes by looking at my yarn stash.

Additions to my stash.

more yarn is on it's way

2007-05-02T18:46:00.000+01:00

I've won more yarn on Ebay. Both from Debbie Bliss, 10 balls of Cotton Angora in Aqua Blue and 10 balls of Cotton Cashmere in Mustard. Let's pray that the postman brings me joy in the morning.

I'll post more pictures in a couple of days.

more yarn

2007-04-28T22:54:00.001+01:00

Look! It's just arrived. Well, not just because it's 10.34pm, but earlier today. More wonderful yarn. 10 balls of Debbie Bliss Merino Aran and 4 skeins of Rowan Chunky Tweed. Yipeeeeeeeeee. Like I need more yarn, but then again, you can never have too much yarn. Maybe not enough storage space but never too much yarn.

Here's a sneak preview of what I'm working on at the moment.

Can you guess what it is? Well I'll tell you. It's the 'One Skein Wonder'. I've seen so many wonderful versions of this garment that I thought I'd knit one for myself. It's great fun. I'm going to go back to work now (knitting of course), so I'll speak to you in a few days time, with more pictures of my progress.

I'm out of here.

welcome to knitting brings pure joy

2007-04-27T13:54:00.000+01:00

The name of my blog says it all - Knitting Brings Pure Joy. Well, not just knitting but anything creative. This blog will be the home of all my creations.

By the way I'm Joy. It's a pleasure to meet you; when I read blogs by other knitters I feel that I know them personally. My prayer is that we will build a strong relationship and enjoy our craft (or shall I say crafts) together.

Creating brings such pleasure. Just as God made and created man in his own image (Genesis 1 v 26 - 27) and saw that it was good (Genesis 1 v 31); I pray that this blog will be filled with beautiful items that I will both make and create.

Hopefully tomorrow will the start of my visual journal with the first item on my long and every growing list of things to make and create.

Speak to you soon.

God Bless
Joy