Christmas Knitting and crocheting

These are some fingerless mitts I made for my friend Jenn - @Random for christmas. 

And these are a trial mitt for a basic pattern that I am trying to perfect so I can write it up.

This is the beginning of a cowl for my daughter, you will see the finished one after Christmas when I have her model it for me.

This is a scarf I crocheted. The yarn is very soft and very shiney and sparkly.

Merry Christmas and happy knitting.

Happy Thanksgiving!

I found this on "Knitting Daily" and thought it was cute! Of course I agree with everything.

I'm truly thankful for knitting; here are just a few reasons why:

It fills my life with color. It encourages my creativity. It keeps my hands busy. It introduces me to new people who share my love for the craft. It loves to travel. It likes the same TV shows that I like. It keeps the same schedule as I do; if I want to knit in the middle of the night, it's there for me. It likes to change bags as much as I do! It challenges me. It keeps me company, even when I'm cranky.

Fun Friday!

Kitties and knitting!
They go so well together -

Oh I love these bookmarks!

I love this picture of the cat with all those beautiful gloves and mitts!

HAHAHAHAHA!

ENJOY!!!

Knitting book review

Knits Men Want

The 10 Rules Every Woman Should Know Before Knitting for a Man~

Plus the Only 10 Patterns She'll Ever Need

Bruce Weinstein

5 Stars!!!!!

ABOUT THE BOOK -

For as long as women have been knitting, they’ve been knitting garments for men—only to have men hide their lovingly created pieces in drawers and closets. Men aren’t being intentionally cruel; they’re just not comfortable in knitwear made with bright colors, itchy yarn, or flashy designs.

So what’s a knitter to do? Understand the male psyche, says knitting instructor Bruce Weinstein. In Knits Men Want he presents ten hilarious essays, each based on a rule that helps women knit for men successfully. “Men Are Babies” explains why guys need to wear soft fabrics. “Men Hate Fittings” describes how to create a sweater based on one that’s in his wardrobe. Following each essay is a timeless master pattern, from socks, hats, and scarves to an array of sweaters, all in a range of sizes and most written for multiple gauges. With this book in hand, women finally have the secret to knitting garments that men will appreciate and actually wear.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR -

Bruce Weinstein has been designing knitwear and teaching knitting for 10 years and has written 15 cookbooks with his partner, Mark Scarborough. Once a creative director at Grey Advertising and The Spier Group, he has appeared on the Today show, The View, CBS This Morning, and QVC, and writes for numerous national publications. He lives in Colebrook, Connecticut.

MY REVIEW -

I LOVE this book! Not only is it a great knitting book with great patterns - it is hilarious! I loved all the little anecdotes and helpful hints. I read this book cover to cover. I can't say that about too many knitting books! 

And, I love this sweater! This is my favorite sweater in the whole book.

The patterns in here are great. Honestly, I think I would make every single item in here, and I honestly can't say THAT either about any other knitting book! There sweaters, vests, hats, scarves, fingerless mitts, and socks. All of these are basic patterns that men will be sure to wear and patterns that you can knit over and over.

Thank you Open Road Integrated Media and Netgalley for this e-book in exchange for my honest review!

Get you copy from Amazon - HERE

And - the kindle version is only $4.61 - are you freakin kidding me??? You better get this one right now - so worth it!

Knitting book review

Knockout Knits

New Tricks for scarves, Hats, Jewelry, and other accessories

By Laura Nelkin

 5 Stars!!!!!

ABOUT THE BOOK -
An abundance of knitted luxuries--summery lace shawls, warm and wooly hats, a trio of cool knitted bracelets, and stunning beaded gloves--designed to grow your skills.

Who doesn't love to knit accessories? They're fast, often require only a skein or two of yarn, and make amazingly versatile gifts for friends and family. Small knits are also the perfect way to try something new--an unusual stitch pattern, wild multi-colored yarn, or even a touch of sparkle. Laura Nelkin is well-known for designing these fun-to-knit little projects introducing her students and fans to advanced techniques with her signature "You can do it!" enthusiasm. In her first book, she shares her 3 favorite types of knitting using wrapped stitches, lacework, and beads. Each chapter begins with a quick knitted cuff to lay the foundations, then gradually ramps up to more complicated designs. The result is an all-new collection of wearable, feminine knits with a slightly rustic aesthetic. Give them as gifts, stockpile for a chilly day, or dress up a casual outfit--these are knockout projects to enjoy knitting again and again.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR -
Laura Nelkin, a prolific independent knitwear designer, graduated from Cornell with a degree in Apparel Design. A former design director, Laura sells her knit pattern and kit line to yarn stores worldwide and teaches workshops around the country and online with Craftsy.com. Her patterns have been published through Nelkin Designs, and in The Rhinebeck Sweater, Scarf Style 2, Knitscene, and Knitty. Laura lives near Ithaca, New York.
Visit her at www.nelkindesigns.com.

MY REVIEW -
Gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous! Well I was already a fan of Laura (We share the same hometown - Ithaca!), but this book is just plain fantastic! There are so many items I want to make.Everything in this book is good, there are no throwaways. I love this kind of knitting anyway - Lace knitting and cables. And I love knitting the small but more complicated stuff, socks, gloves, scarves, hats. I would rather knit those than sweaters any day.

Her directions are always excellent. The pictures are beautiful (full color and lots of them) and the diagrams and charts are perfect... need I say more?

This is one of my favorites! I can't wait to make this hat -

Thank you "Blogging for Books" for sending me this amazing knitting book for my honest review!

Get your copy from Amazon - HERE

I'm baaaaack!

Sorry I was MIA there for a while. We bought a new house and moved to a new state. We are still getting settled, but coming along.

I bought this specialty yarn a loooong time ago, like a couple yrs ago. I didn't know what I was going to do with it. I only bought it because it was on mega sale, like .99 per skein. And it was pretty.
I tried knitting with it but it was so slippery I couldn't really do much with it.

I decided to crochet a decorative scarf with it. I think its turning out nicely.

I haven't crocheted in a long time and it feels good to do it again.

Finished project!

I finished my tank sweater I was working on! I love it. It still needs to be blocked, but fits nicely.

This is the pattern that I used -

I had never used a Cascade pattern before and to be honest I don't know if I ever will again! Parts of this pattern were so confusing and I ended up doing it a little different just because I couldn't figure it out. I think it could have been written better, more clear.

But it did turn out nice and I am very happy with it!

Knitting book review!

5 Stars 

ABOUT THE BOOK -

Rethink traditional knitting with this groundbreaking collection of 25 sophisticated patterns for beautiful sweaters, jackets, and accessories from one of the most influential voices in knitwear design.

Award-winning author Nicky Epstein offers knitters of all skill levels adventurous, wearable projects that showcase innovative and clever construction and garment details. From a tunic created by weaving sections of knitting to a pullover featuring braided sleeve details, these patterns all offer interesting new twists on classic handknit designs. The stitches are easy, but the eye-opening results will challenge the way knitters think about this age-old craft. Each chapter focuses on one type of treatment, including innovative shaping, weaving, and braiding, directional knitting, or cutting-edge ways to use edgings and colorwork. Distilling her more than 30 years of knit design know-how, Nicky shares all the tricks of her trade in this gorgeous volume.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR -

Nicky Epstein, one of today's hottest knitwear designers, has gained international recognition for her innovative work, whimsical sense of style, and informative workshops. She has authored numerous books, including Knitting in Circles, Knitting Block by Block, Nicky Epstein's Knitted Flowers, Knitting On the Edge, Knitting Over the Edge, Knitting Beyond the Edge, and Knits for Barbie® Doll, among others. Her designs have also been featured in Vogue Knitting and many other knitting publications, as well as on television and at art exhibitions. 

MY REVIEW -

Absolutely gorgeous hard-cover book! 

This is not really a knitting book for beginners, but that's what I love about it! I am an advanced knitter and it is getting harder to find knitting books that are not just the basics.

This book has some BEAUTIFUL patterns! I am so excited to try some. Every pattern has several full color pictures and diagrams. I fully read through one of the patterns and there was nothing I didn't understand. It all seemed very straight forward and easy to follow. And at the end of course is the stitch glossary.

I think this book is very well done! Two thumbs up! I am also very excited to check out some of her others books as well. I don't believe I have seen any others by this designer.

Here are my favorite patterns -

And this one I really LOOOOOVE! I think I am going to try to make this later this year!

Thank you "Blogging for Books" for sending me this Gorgeous book for my honest review!

Get your copy from Amazon - HERE

Crocheting book review!

5 Stars!!!!!

ABOUT THE BOOK -

This fresh, fun guide from expert Dora Ohrenstein covers all of the basic crochet techniques and so much more, from choosing yarns to finishing! It includes more than 70 stitch-along swatches that each teach a particular technique, as well as five projects (a hat, shawl, neck warmer, bag, and scarf) that put those techniques to use. The swatches offer not just a variety of stitch patterns but also a variety of shapes and can serve as the building blocks for sophisticated and creative projects of your own design.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR -

Dora's designs have been published in Interweave Crochet, Inside Crochet, Knit Simple, and Crochet Today, as well as in several pattern collection books. She has contributed articles to Crochet Insider, Yarn Market News, and Interweave Crochet and has completed two books--Crochet Insider's Passion for Fashion (Leisure Arts, 2008) and Creating Crochet Fabric (Lark, 2009).

MY REVIEW -

Excellent book for someone who wants to learn how to crochet (or someone who would like to learn more). This is one of the best teaching books I have seen! The descriptions and directions are excellent. There are tons of pictures that show the steps vividly and lots of diagrams.

*There are all the basics - chain, single crochet, double, treble, etc. it even shows you exactly how to count the stitches!

*There are a lot of stitches and patterns - loop stitch, clusters, Marguerite stitch, bobbles and puffs, fans stitches, cables and soooo much more! There are even some stitches in her I have not done! And I have been crocheting for years.

*Shaping and increasing and decreasing

*Crocheting in the round

*Using two (or more) colors

*Finishing - sewing the seams, weaving in the ends, edgings

And again - all the directions and pictures are excellent! I dare anyone to try this book and NOT learn how to crochet!

Herre are a few pics and diagrams -

 

Thank you Netgalley and Storey Publishing for sending me this e-book for my honest review!

Get your copy from Amazon - HERE

Comfort Knitting & Crochet: Babies & Toddlers

5 Stars!

ABOUT THE BOOK -

Nary a knitter or crocheter can resist making soft, snuggly things for babies. In Comfort Knitting & Crochet: Babies & Toddlers, the Berroco design team (led by superstar design director Norah Gaughan) cover all of the cozy bases, presenting blankets, sweaters, bonnets, and plush toys. Like the first book in the Comfort series—Comfort Knitting & Crochet: Afghans—this one features 50 knit and crochet projects using the company’s bestselling, affordably priced Comfort and Vintage yarns. With project styles ranging from traditional pastels and Aran knits to midcentury modern color-blocking, and challenge levels ranging from beginner to advanced, there’s something for every knitter and crocheter—and every baby they love—in this beautiful collection.

 

MY REVIEW -

Great book! There is lots of variety in here. All kinds of patterns from clothes, hats, and blankets.

Tons of great full color adorable pictures!

I love that this is a combination Knitting/crocheting book. I guess if you only do one or the other - you might not be as excited, but I happen to do both - so I thought this was great!

Who doesn't love knitting or crocheting for a baby???? My daughter just got married last summer so I am in Grandbaby envy right now. I want all the knit and crochet patterns I can get my hands on! I am determined to have a whole stack of stuff made by the time that baby comes... someday! My future grandchildren will be so lucky!

Wonderful, easy to follow patterns with lots of pictures!

I definitely would make some stuff from this book!

But be aware - as I said - this is a combo knit/crochet book.

Here are a couple of my favorites (I dare you to look at these and not say "awwww")

Oh my gosh! Adorable, am I right?

Thanks Netgalley and "Open Road Integrated Media" for sending me this e-book for my honest review!

 

Get your copy from Amazon - HERE

Crochet book reviews

4 Stars! 

ABOUT THE BOOK -

For many of us, afghans are the epitome of comfort. Colorful and inviting, they are a staple of the home, without which a living room or bedroom just wouldn’t feel complete. And whether you’re making one for yourself, as a housewarming gift, or to welcome a new baby into the world, the process of creating a handmade afghan can be as rewarding as the finished product.

Comfort Knitting and Crochet: Afghans features 50 patterns for these cozy blankets, made with Berroco Comfort yarn—an affordable, ultra-soft acrylic/nylon blend—and designed by the Berroco team, headed by Norah Gaughan. The book includes something for everyone: The designs range from ultra-modern to traditional, from spare to embellished, and are inspired by sources as varied as Scottish tweeds, Japanese Ikat, and Delft pottery. Intended for knitters and crocheters of every skill level, this collection brings new life to the well-loved and versatile afghan.

MY REVIEW -

Very nice book! There are 50 patterns in this book! So you are bound to find a few you like. 

Very good, easy to follow instructions.

Bright, full color pictures for every pattern! Yay!

Lots of variety, every pattern is different and unique.

There are a few in here that I definitely want to make! Some of these could even be made smaller to make into a shawl! Which I know are real popular right now.

This is one of my favorites, I just love the whole patchwork quilt look of it. -

And I love this one as well -

Thank you Netgalley and "Open Road Integrated Media" for sending me this e-book for my honest review!

Get you copy from Amazon - HERE

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3 Stars

ABOUT THE BOOK -

For many of us, afghans are the epitome of comfort. Colorful and inviting, they are a staple of the home, without which a living room or bedroom just wouldn’t feel complete. And whether you’re making one for yourself, as a housewarming gift, or to welcome a new baby into the world, the process of creating a handmade afghan can be as rewarding as the finished product. This sampler from Comfort Knitting & Crochet: Afghans is intended for crocheters of every skill level, and brings new life to the well-loved and versatile afghan. 

MY REVIEW -

This is a very small book, 19 pages with only three patterns. I really only liked one of the patterns. The other two were kind of plain to me.

But - the directions for all three seemed very good! There were very nice full color pictures - so bravo for that.

Basically - look at the cover, if you like what you see - buy the book! Its only $1.99 on Amazon so well worth it even if you are only making one.

Thanks Netgalley and "Open Road Integrated Media" for sending me this e-book for my honest review!

Get yours from Amazon - HERE

Crafting book reviews!

ABOUT THE BOOK -
These sweet and sassy baby hats will bring a smile to your face! 25 adorable patterns for every celebration of the year: Birthday Cupcake Cap, Halloween Hat, Holly Holiday Hat, Baby Chick Cap, Crystal Party Hat, Firecracker Topper, Leaf Peeper Cap, and more.

MY REVIEW -
Adorable! These hats are so stinkin cute!
The directions seem real good and clear, easy to follow. I can't wait to try some of these. Nice of nice pictures too!
I will have to warn the daughter and son-in-law that their future babies will have tons of insanely cute hats to wear! :-)


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ABOUT THE BOOK -
From the sweet, simple primer on techniques (working with wool fabrics, hand-stitching, machine sewing, and quilting) to each individual project’s detailed instructions (with tips on cutting, pressing, top-stitching, hand-tying, and more) Susan’s passion for sewing shines through. Each project is rated from 1 sheep to 3 sheep, according to difficulty, and there are helpful box-feature guides throughout—helpful advice for everything from substituting fabrics to matching plaids to fabric care. On every page, readers will discover just how gratifying sewing can be.

MY REVIEW -
This is a real nice book with some great ideas - All using Pendleton wool. The directions seem simple and easy to follow even if you are a biginner, with lots of  nice full color pictures! I haven't dragged my sewing machine out in a long time. This book just might be enough to make me do it!
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ABOUT THE BOOK -
Sticky Fingers is a vibrant, easy-to-follow, step-by-step guide to creating amazing projects with the hottest crafting material on the market today duct tape! The book includes tons of photographs alongside directions designed to make creating a wallet and making a bag even easier, while also providing a steady stream of ideas for personalizing and embellishing your duct tape creations. Each project includes icons showing difficulty level and project time, as well as helpful hints, such as how to keep your scissors clean and what to do with end pieces. So grab a roll of duct tape, pick a project, and get started!

MY REVIEW -
Just what I was looking for! Seriously! I was givin a real cute roll of Hello Kitty tape and didn't know what to do with it. I knew there were books like this out there but had never actually looked at one.
This one is excellent! Lots of real great and even practical ideas with great directions! Lots of full color pictures used with step-by-step instructions.
This book is enough to get me to buy up a bunch of Duct tape and Tape my world!

Moving and knitting

Well I don't have hardly any followers or viewers and I think most of you probably know by now that my husband and I are moving.
If you are a silent blog viewer and do not know this - My husband and I are moving! LOL

We have lived in this house in upstate NY for just over 18 yrs.

There is now a "for sale" sign in our yard!

Why? you might ask... The hubby has been working in PA for a large transportation company for about 4 yrs. He was "on the road" most of the time, on location, staying in motels. So it didn't really matter where we lived, he was never home anyway.
Recently he got a promotion and now has an office job (kind of a middle mang. position) so this means he is home every night in his apt in PA and I am home every night here in NY. It just doesn't make sense. So we decided it was time to finally make the move.
Hopefully by the end of summer we will be moving into our new home in central PA.

I have already started sorting and packing.
And believe it or not I have packed my yarn! Gasp! I know!

I did keep out enough for a few summer projects.
I am still working on my tank, which alone should take me the rest of the summer.

And I am once again working on this "sockie blankie" that I started forever ago! It is made out of all scrap sock yarn! Here is the link for the pattern - HERE

And I kept out needles and yarn for a pair of socks.

That should be enough to keep me busy before we move.
I will keep you updated.
And please - pray that we get an offer on our house soon!