Patterns, projects and techniques
How exciting is this? The awesome editors over at KnitCircus have agreed to give away pattern packs from the current issue to 5 lucky commenters! Below are just a few samples of what you’ll find in this issue, also included are table runners, coffee mug cozies and socks.
Leave me a comment telling me all about your summer knitting!
Giveaway ends next Friday, June (OMG is it June already??) 4, 2010. Ready….set…..GO!!
Not too long ago my daughter and I had a discussion about what a chestnut really looks like. The nut itself is small and brown, of course, but on the tree they’re covered with this weird kind of spiky, kind of fuzzy shell. It’s a wonder anyone ever figured out they were edible.
If you didn’t know that, you might wonder why this project is call Chestnut balaclava, but now you know.
This fun design from Yevheniia Pyroh is covered with spikes just like a chestnut shell, and is even the same color, though of course you can make yours whatever color you like. It uses two strands of fingering weight yarn held together (which it says is fingering weight but you could try a light/DK yarn and see if you get gauge with it if you’d rather).
There are two different design options in the pattern. One is a more fitted balaclava style hat (it doesn’t cover the face but does go around the neck) and a looser fit hood.
It’s worked primarily in garter stitch, with shaping done by knitting and purling in the same stitch and through various decreases (including a knit 3 together).
The pattern is charted but also explained in words. It’s worked flat to the size you want, and then joined into a hood shape with ribbing at the neck. The opening for the face is finished with I-cord.
This hood/balaclava would definitely be a conversation starter and in different colors it might read more dinosaur than chestnut, which could also be fun. The sizing is totally custom so you can make it fit whatever head you’re stitching for.
If you want to try it for yourself (and I’d love to hear about it if you do!) you can download the free pattern from Ravelry.
[Photo: Yevheniia Pyroh]
I’m participating in two KAL in the KnitPicks Lovers group on Ravelry. I also plan to knit Kat Coyle’s Short-Row Skirt and start my winter knitting in August.
This summer I’m knitting a project that will take some time, it’s the Totally Autumn throw in Knitty 2007 fall issue knitted in Trendsetter Vigna Spanish Sunset. I recently had total knee replacement surgery and will be off work for at least two months, the only thing that keeps me sane is knitting. To avoid one project burn out I’m also working on a Potluck wool hat for my husband. In between those two projects I’m knitting washclothes and plan to begin a pair of socks.
I just love great giveaways! This summer I’m working on Christmas gifts that includes socks, shawlettes, and dishcloths/soap sacks. I’m also working on a cardigan for myself.
I’ve always got one or two pairs of socks going. I use the double circ, two at a time method. Makes it easy to complete a pair of socks in a hurry and on the go. I also have a baby shrug in the works. After that I am going to knit something for myself for a change (besides socks)! Still narrowing down the pattern. Have some fabulous cottons and super merino blends in my stash for inspiration.
socks, cardigans, beaded scarf….and something with my own home spun yarn
I’d love to win!
My summer knitting, is a summer top in CEY Firefly, and a baby sweater for my granddaughter.
I can’t wait to get my knitting needles out for the projects in this book
I have been rediscovering cotton yarn this summer. i am making water bottle and wine bottle carriers and bathing suit covers!
I am working on stockings for Christmas presents. It is very relaxing for me in the evening before bedtime.
I have been knitting sock’s & makeing dish towel’s. All so reading alot of good books by Jennifer Weiner.