Miss Twiss

Woo! CBC Ottawa Morning Interview

2008-06-05T08:50:00.002-04:00

Listen to Hallie Cotnam and Me talk about Lunch Apparel by visiting this link and click on "Fruit cover-ups"!

Lunch Apparel: Hand Knit in Ottawa

2008-04-25T10:51:00.008-04:00

Hand knit sweaters to keep your apples, peaches, plums, & bananas from the sharp objects in your bag.
Encourages the eating of more fruit.
You know what they say: "An apple a day keeps you healthy"
Brighten up your fruit basket at home.
Yes, these sweaters will keep your fruit warm, too.

Available at:

Heaven's To Betsy, 1243 Wellington Street West, Ottawa CANADA
Workshop Studio & Boutique, 242 1/2 Dalhousie Street North, Ottawa, CANADA
Ladyfest Ottawa Not Your Grandma's Craftsale, Saturday, May 10th, 2008 @ Jack Purcell Community Centre, 10 am - 5 pm, $2 Suggested Donation

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Yarn Studio is having a Birthday and 500th Post Celebration Contest. Check her out and submit your entry! Don't forget to say that you found her through this blog.

Sockem Socks

2008-03-07T12:18:00.004-05:00

The first of a pair. And the first attempt at Waving Lace Socks, by Evelyn Clark. Pattern is found in Interweave's, Favorite Socks.
This yarn is Wolle Rödel Sport & Strumpfwolle Mini-Ringel, in gold tones. It is a wool and nylon blend, and not soft.
The needles I used are bamboo and 2.5mm.

Hustle Bustle Skirt End-Result

2008-02-15T21:23:00.002-05:00

This is the beautiful Sophie H.
She modeled for me for a photo-shoot in early February.
I'll post some pictures of the shoot later-on.

Thanks for your comments.

Hustle Bustle Tutorial Part V

2008-02-15T09:09:00.001-05:00

Here is the back of the skirt.

And the front of the skirt.

Hustle Bustle Tutorial Part IV

2008-02-13T09:07:00.003-05:00

Gather Ruffle by matching Ruffle to Skirt notches. Pin occassionally at key areas.

Sew the two layers together, distributing the gathering equally along the skirt edge. Here I lifted the two pieces to show the gathering above and the clean straigt piece below.

Sew between the two rows of stitching for consistent gathering.

Finish the hem of the ruffle by folding the long edge 0.5 x 0.5cm and topstitch along the folded edge.

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The Hustle Bustle Skirt Pattern is available for FREE!
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Hustle Bustle Tutorial Part III

2008-02-11T09:01:00.002-05:00

Button holes!

From left sets of button holes to right sets of button holes, the tie will be drawn towards the back.

Clipping the edge of the tie with a loop turner, pull through.

Sew the edges of the ruffle together and baste two rows of stitching along the top edge.

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The Hustle Bustle Skirt Pattern is available at for FREE!

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Hustle Bustle Tutorial Part II

2008-02-07T08:56:00.002-05:00

All the pieces cut. I made the ruffle piece deeper than the pattern.

Sewing the button holes to the skirt before assembly.

An invaluable tip: Before opening your button hole, pin the top part of it.
When cutting between the rows of zig-zag that created your button hole, the pin will stop you from pushing the ripper right past the hole and hence destroying your work. Invaluable.

The Magic Tie Turning Trick.

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The Hustle Bustle Skirt Pattern is available for FREE!

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Hustle Bustle Tutorial Part I

2008-02-05T08:48:00.002-05:00

Choosing a fabric. I've chosen a light weight fabric I picked up at a clothing/craft swap. The fabric reminds me of something found in African or Indonnesia. The colours are rich yet not bright, there is an undertone that makes the orange, yellow and indigo less intense than they could be. I've decided to make the ruffle a little longer than the pattern is. The stripes make it easy to align and count.

Laying out the Pattern. Following the stripes. Because the pattern is made up of 90 degree angles, it is easy to cut by following the lines of the stripes.

Marking the notches. Cutting 0.5cm deep and not any deeper.

Marking, with chalk and pins, the places to sew the button holes. Here, I'm doing all three.

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The Hustle Bustle Skirt Pattern is available for FREE!

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A Dumpling Dolly

2008-01-09T22:36:00.000-05:00

A Knitting Project

2008-01-06T22:44:00.000-05:00

A Pillow

2008-01-05T23:47:00.000-05:00

A Drawing

2008-01-03T23:45:00.000-05:00

Field Guide to KNITTING, by Jackie Pawlowski

2007-12-15T10:26:00.000-05:00

Though this little stitch dictionary by Jackie Pawlowski expects the reader to be familiar with the paraphernalia of knitting, it greatly encourages all knitters to experiment. Any experienced knitter in knit and purl stitches does not need another book with simple illustrated or photographed examples of “how to knit and purl,” but the experienced knitter does need Field Guide to Knitting, a concise, format-friendly book with clear instructions for complex designs.

With over 200 stitches—from the basics to lacework, cabling, and edging with accompanying photographs (swatches)— Field Guide to Knitting fits snuggly into any knitting bag. Though they are not beside each stitch, you will find the coloured plates smack in the middle of the book. Each grouping of stitches and patterns are not only separated by style of knitting, but also by coloured plates, which helps one imagine how a fabric can look.

Each stitch pattern is instructed with an “Other Name” of the stitch (international knitting patterns each have their own description); a “General Description” (what to expect from this pattern and how the fabric behaves); “Properties” of the stitch pattern (if the pattern is knittable in the round and/or horizontal and the pattern is gauged by “television watching friendly” or “you’ll need to concentrate”); “Yarn Consumption” (self-explanatory, considerate, and priceless information); “Suggested Uses” (needle size and end uses); the “Pattern” (not charted, but written); and, of course, the plate number to find the colour photo of the swatch.

For anyone interested in designing, I recommend this book as a reference tool. Much thought and time goes into each of your projects and Jackie Pawlowski saves you some of that time with this compilation of stitches. For only $15.95 pick this up for yourself at your local independent bookstore.

Published by Quirk Books

Lunch Apparel Anyone?

2007-11-30T09:20:00.001-05:00

Apple, Pear, Orange (yeah I know, they come in their own packaging... it's the colour!) and Banana Apparel.Cozy sweaters to keep the bruises off your lunch, will be available at the Miss Twiss and the Hintonburg Harlots table at the Ladyfest: Not Your Grandmother's Craftsale this Saturday at the Jack Purcell Community Centre from 10am to 5pm. This will be a rawkin' good time!

BUY HANDMADE this holiday!
Also available by Miss Twiss will be samples from the Fall 2007 Collection, leather jewelry, crocheted necklaces, and mini knitting patterns.

OTTAWA Not Your Grandmother's Holiday Craftsale - December 1

2007-11-24T07:13:00.000-05:00

In the mornings, my guy leaves very early for the day while I'm still sleeping. He comes into our room and whispers to me. When he whispers into my sleeping ears, he says things like, "Have a great day, I'll make risotto for supper" or "I love you. We'll snuggle tonight" or like this morning, "You'll need your winter boots and a rain coat" Sometimes I drift back to sleep. This morning, I slugged myself out of bed to check the white coverings.

More and more often the weather threatens to be more winter like. So you know what that means?

Not Your Grandmother's Holiday Craftsale is coming soon! This holiday season it's happening December 1st.

Now that's plenty of time to find specially crafted, hand made, clever and thoughtful presents for your special people this season.

As last Spring, it's gonna happen from 10-5pm at Jack Purcell Community Centre.

$2 is the suggested entrance fee. That fee goes to help raise funds for the next Ladyfest Ottawa festival. They also sell tickets to win a huge basket of crafts donated from all the participating crafters.

Go here for more information about LadyFest.

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Lesley Buxton 's Scarf Vines

Lesley Buxton knits and felts these vines in fabulous colours and soft wool. She combines some goofy textures as well. Decorate an area of your home with them or wear them as scarves. They have insulative properties after all!

Ms. Buxton's scarf vines are available from $48-68 and only at the LadyFest craft sale. Unless I convince her to set up an Etsy store.

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Here's another: Lilybug. She makes guitar straps, camera straps, and bicycle seat covers in clever fabrics that make you smile. Check her out here and come to the Ladyfest and pick up her stuff there!

* *** ** * * * ** ** * **** *** ** * * ** **Then there's Maria Lezon. I love her sense of humour and she is so smart! Mainly her topic is the daily lives of women.

At Ladyfest, Maria will have some of her illustrations printed on t-shirts, and a cards too.

If you are interested I encourage you to visit her website at www.marialezon.com and learn more about her and her work.

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Paper Skirt makes lovely invitations and greetings. One of my favourites is Howly Holidays Christmas card for canine lovers.

Purchase one for $5, or six for $18

Beautifully made cards with a great sense of humour.

Try a set of ten recipe cards, Needs more tuna, for only $4.

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Just today, Youth League and The Spies posted an entry about this same topic. To read about more crafters who'll be at the Ladyfest Craft Fair, check it out!

Book Launch - EGGHEAD - November, 24

2007-11-23T08:17:00.001-05:00

Do you ever wonder what happened to those you went to high school with? Then Facebook came along and now I know. I'm so pleased to share with you all Caroline Pignat's latest release, Egghead. I'm planing on picking up my copy this weekend and having it signed.

"Egghead" is a novel for kids 12+ that tells the story of bullying from two bystanders points of view. For an excerpt check out www.carolinepignat.com.

OTTAWA Art & Gift Fair - November 25

2007-11-23T07:47:00.000-05:00

Check out the crafters and their wares on the Sandy Hills One & Only Gift Fair blog, here, where I've blatantly taken their description of this fair.

Sandy Hills One and Only Art & Gift Fair
250 Somerset Street EAST
Sandy Hill's Community Centre
NOV. 25, 2007

Here you will find delicious tidbits for the gourmand on your list to delicate silk-screened t-shirts for that teenage girl who hates everything you've ever bought her.

ONE DAY ONLY to get your hands on that PERFECT gift.

Over 40 artists & artisans to choose from.

SUNDAY NOV.25 - 10am to 5pm. Tell your mama, tell your papa and bring your moolah !

TORONTO City of Craft - December 1

2007-11-22T20:08:00.000-05:00

spins & needles has been invited to participate in City of Craft, a day long opportunity to buy, observe, experience, chat about, share and re-imagine all things handmade!

WHAT: City of Craft
WHO: 60+ craft vendors, community groups, installation artists & workshop leaders
WHEN: Saturday December 1, 2007, 11am-8pm
WHERE: Theatre Centre, located at 1087 Queen Street West at Dovercourt.
WEB: http://cityofcraft.com

Event highlights include:

60+ craft vendors and exhibitors from Toronto and Montreal selling awesome handmade art, craft & fashion and promoting their craft-based initiatives
Soft City, a plush cityscape that invites Torontonians to reconsider their relationship to the place they live
StreetKnit's hand-knit house, an inventive endeavor to bring awareness to issues of homelessness in the city (Donations of hand knit garments will be accepted at the event).
Perusal of Toronto Zine Library's entire collection of zines in the cozy reading lounge.
Ample opportunities to make stuff!

Ottawa SPINS & NEEDLES - November 23

2007-11-21T20:10:00.000-05:00

When: Friday November 23 @ 8 p.m onwards

Where: Montgomery Legion Hall (330 Kent St. @ Somerset St. W.)

Cover: $6. Includes all project materials and instructions..

Cash bar, 19+.

DJs

* Jason Pelletier (spins & needles/disco bingo/techcetera)
* Daisy (shanghai thursdays)

PROJECTS

*Sock puppets! (need we say more)

Info: http://www.spinsandneedles.com/upcomingevent.htm

Vancouver Friends: Handmade III

2007-11-20T09:34:00.000-05:00

Saturday, December 15th

11am - 7pm

Vancouver, British Columbia, CANADA

Presented by: The Big Yellow House 1929 Napier Street @ the corner of Victoria.

A holiday sale of handcrafted wonders!

handspun yarn, felt, clothing, jewellery, books, prints, paintings, photographs, baking, stationery, ceramics, herbal teas.

Kit Lane and Lavender Lizard

2007-11-17T08:15:00.000-05:00

Something to stuff into your purse purse...

How about a Snarfle for $16 or a set of Conjoined Jacabobs for $21?
KitLane's profile is an entertaining read, to say the least. Don't give her sympathy, she doesn't ask for it. Maybe it's all because of her surroundings: The cultural wasteland of west central Minnesota, has made her as fearless and brave as her felties.

Sited from a description of how her Twins are made, "Tweedle and Dee are made by the needle felting method which means poking and poking a lump of wool with a very sharp barbed needle until their form appears. This has made them fearless and brave."

Browse. Read. Shop. Enjoy.

10% of each purchase of Kit Lane goes to the American Cancer Society.

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What else does a girl need in her purse purse?

A Lipstick Holder with Key Chain, for only $4 each! Available at Lavender Lizard, crocheter extraordinaire.

2007-11-16T09:13:00.000-05:00

Show Pony, from Glasgow, prints vintage purses on organic cotton purses. This one is only $20. How clever is that? How pretty are they?

Check more of her items out on her Etsy shop at www.ShowPony.Etsy.com

This other is only $16

Just the right size to put something else special inside...
like a candy-can or a felted monster...

Stay tuned until tomorrow when I find a handmade felted monster perfect to stuff into this pretty purse.

Kjoo's Handmade Felt Accessories

2007-11-15T08:31:00.000-05:00

From Portugal: Kjoo's Patchwork Felt pin, an absolutely a one of a kind brooche for $35

Super light weight accessories.
Easy for shipping and handling.
Lovely to look at.
Exceptional to wear.

Jacquline Knits, from Ontario!

2007-11-14T09:07:00.000-05:00

Super light weight accessories.
Easy for shipping and handling.
Lovely to look at!
Totally functional.

Jacqueline Knits Apple jackets! Get them here at her etsy shop.

Buy Handmade: No. 1 Little Black Crow

2007-11-13T09:30:00.000-05:00

Really this MUST be shared!

Little Black Crow added these 4-9" tall sculptures to her Etsy shop. She has hand sewn, hand painted and stuffed these sculptures, perfect for a little person's room or for someone special. She is in Hobart, Tazmania! Read more about Little Black Crow on her Etsy shop.

It was a postcard swap, organized by Nikki-Shell, that introduced me to Little Black Crow. She sent me a postcard with one of her beautiful sculptures on it. A prototype perhaps to this project, and it is beautiful. It is in my studio, it inspires me to think beyond the expected and it is lovely. I am certain one of these pretty sculptures will do the same for you or for your intended this holiday season!

Buy Handmade

Buy Handmade

2007-11-13T08:59:00.000-05:00

This Holiday Season, I'm taking the Buy Handmade Pledge, and going to encourage others to do the same. Every posting prior to said holiday will be to encourage my readers to shop for handmade gifts or places to shop for these unique, one of a kind pieces of joy.

I however, will not be posting what I've purchased, though it is good eye-candy, because I know some of you who read this knattering of mine may receive a gift from me this season.

Miss Twiss Spring 2008

2007-10-25T12:02:00.000-04:00

This might not be a big collection but I'm pretty gosh darn proud of it.
La-La La-La Laa!

This collection's decibel is at the right volume. Not too much. Not too little.

The gathered yoke with piping on the jacket creates a gentle country-like volume. A bias cut skirt with self-faced hem trim and bell shaped side seams, compliments the tone.

Pizzicato gathering at the neckline.

Pockets in the dress.
Pockets in the skirt.

Cinched at the waist.
Buttons up the back.

There are two styles of pants that puts all the musical notes together.

The sleeve on the blouse has changed since, it now follows the line of the bell shaped skirt (which has a deeper self-faced hem-trim) and has a gathered wrist. In fact, the sleeve has the shape of tailored sleeve, as the seam doesn't run under the arm but behind the arm, but the appearance of a bishop's. Now, I think I'm pretty clever!

Jackie's Jacket
Bell's Skirt
Mrs. Astor's Dress
Brooke's Blouse
Peg's Skirt
Patti's Pant
Jeanie's Jean

All of these styles are named after important female philanthropists. Mrs. Brooke Astor, Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis, Corianne Bell, Patti Lefebvre, and a few unknowns.

A selection of this collection is currently found at Amuse Boutique, 248 Dalhousie St. Ottawa, (613) 562-2229 and at my etsy.shop (linked here)

Great News For Friends

2007-10-24T21:10:00.000-04:00

Yummy Mummies Nikki-Shell and 62Cherry, aka Nichola Prested and Justine Telfer respectively both founders of Mix Tape Zine gets press on Frankie!

I'm looking forward to mine. Pre-order their second issue here on etsy!
Collect them all and get their Premier issue here on etsy too.

The 1st Chunk For The 2nd Time

2007-10-21T17:47:00.000-04:00

Yarn: Alafoss Lopi 100g/100m
Needles: 6mm Addi Turbo 24" circular
The first chunk is right on!

Please note my blatant fruit basket, all cozied up! In my bowl I have an orange (in lace), a granny smith, a pear, a yellow apple, and a cold and lonely plum. And a box of Girl Guide cookies. Maybe that's why I'm not feeling so hot. Too many cookies.

On another note:

A few months, maybe weeks, I passed by this scene. Last night I was surprised to see it still there, so I captured it to share with you. It is a sad sight.
This space once housed many, many metres of yarn.

CLOTHES [by Muriel Dombret]

2007-10-20T08:50:00.001-04:00

[Designed and Produced Locally,
Admired Everywhere]

Back in her hometown Antwerp, Belgium, Dombret started working for a new private label and recent graduate from the Antwerp College for Fine Arts fashion program. Dombret assisted the designer and was responsible for the production coordination and retail shop. During that time, she learned a lot about the industry but wanted to be more hands on and found a private pattern making tutor. She bought herself a Bernina sewing machine and started to customize the vintage clothing that she bought and sold out of her home. Once a week she took a daylong sewing class and in her free time practiced her new skills.

[Dombret is on the left]

In 1991 Dombret moved to Ottawa, and started sewing for various people whom she met during the early days in Canada. In the summer of 1992 Dombret founded CLOTHES and started selling her wares on the Byward Market in Ottawa, back when the market was still producer based and a great spot to meet creative people.

After the first summer, Dombret managed to break even! Soon she had to move out off the cramped kitchen headquarters. In 1994, CLOTHES opened its first shop and studio on 177 Armstrong Street, a little off the beaten track. On summer weekends, you could still find CLOTHES at the Byward market and Dombret started to explore various crafts shows throughout Ontario. By 1997 it became time to expand, CLOTHES moved out of obscurity and became established on Wellington West. The last move happened in 2002. Dombret remained loyal to the neighborhood and bought the building on the corner of Huron and Wellington.

[1258 Welington Street West, Ottawa, CANADA]

It had lots of windows but was in desperate need of some serious TLC. After a year of metamorphosis, the current location at 1258 became a new landmark amongst the trendy strip of Wellington Village. Dombret got into this business not really knowing where it would lead, but she loves what she does! It is a continually evolving creative process. Dombret now has the privilege and pleasure to work with 10 amazing multi talented ladies. CLOTHES would not be there without them!

[CLOTHES' sales team]

And of course thanks to her loyal clientele, CLOTHES was able to grow into an amazing shopping destination. Ottawa women love CLOTHES for the outstanding customer service and the quality and durability of gorgeous fabrics. CLOTHES' vision is to make garments at a reasonable price. So twice a year Dombret designs a new line and together with Canadian designed accessory lines, women can find all they need to complement their wardrobe. Each week the boutique gets a makeover; a new mini collection hits the floor. Different fabrics and colours, present the line in a different light. The client can special order the garment of their choice in an array of different fabrics, as well as having it customized within CLOTHES' size range.

CLOTHES [by Muriel Dombret]
1258 Wellington Street West
Ottawa, ON, Canada K1Y 2S9
1 (613) 798-0167

Apple Cozies

2007-10-12T08:48:00.001-04:00

How frickin' cute are these? I love them! And first saw them in the New York Times way back in August and thought - how perfect. After joining Ravelry I found this super cute knitter: Miss Muffy, fellow Canadian, and knitter extraordinare, who also appreciates this pattern.

Almost everyday I carry my lunch to work in a canvas bag. Those fruit get tossled and bumped and bruised along their trip. And sometimes, I don't get a chance to eat the fruit, I just end up taking them for a walk.

The pattern is available for free at Craftster.

Puces Pop Montreal

2007-10-08T12:57:00.000-04:00

Arts and Crafts FairEvery issue was available, but I picked up #4 of Worn magazine. To make my collection up to date, I'll need the third.

Etsy was there and was giving out lots of fun free stuff. I introduced myself to, top Etsy seller, Danielle. We chatted. It was great to talk to THE top seller and pick her brain. She told me about how she got to working for Etsy, what the best price points are for sellers, and why eye candy is so important to the ladies who love to buy hand-made. She asked me if she could video tape me for their Storque zine and I hesitantly yet opportunistically said, "Yeah!" We'll see if it turns out. I hope their editing talents are as strong as their eye candy/business talents.
A few of my favorite sellers:

Fellow Ottawan, MintyFresh was there with her crazy fun and functional Bicycle seat covers and pretty camera straps. Her shop is found here at Lilybug.ca
I found a woman who sold, "subversive" cross-stitching $8 kits. Great for Christmas presents.
Atelier Wooden Apples was there.
Supayana has very cute and feminine clothes for ladies like yourself, and reading her website, it looks like she is found in key shops in Canada and the US. Nice styles. She must have sold quite a bunch, 'cause by the time I got there, here rolling rack was lite. Good for Supayana!
Orno, wooden earrings.
A bunch more postcards and business cards were collected and hence misplaced.

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an update
* * * * * *

While trying to catch up on my Bloglines I discovered Fashion Minute was integral to putting Pop Montreal Fashion Show together which was at Puces Pop Arts and Craft Show together. Read about it here.

A Slipperer

2007-10-02T23:43:00.000-04:00

After posting about Mrs. M. S. Draves' Slippers, I received an email from YarnyGirl telling me how much she liked this pattern, how she enjoyed knitting it and how fast it was. Who doesn't enjoy a quit knit?
She thought it was clever and was happy I shared my modifications. And then she divulged her love for these slippers, they were perfect for a swap.
Read about her progress and see her slippers on her recipient, here at YarnyGirl. Check out her blog because she also has free patterns to share.

p.s. YarnyGirl loves to get email.

Mrs. M. S. Draves' Slippers

2007-09-30T05:48:00.001-04:00

Once upon a spring like day, Mrs. M. S. Draves and Miss Twiss met for a cup of tea. While discussing their love of knitting, Mrs. M. S. Draves jumped up out of her seat and searched for a scribbling utensil. Upon finding a blue ball point pen, she jotted down a very easy pattern for slippers that was stuck in her head but now on the back of an envelope. Miss Twiss often imagined visiting Mrs. M. S. Draves' home and choosing from a mountain of lovely slippers which to wear for her visit. So, Miss Twiss proceeded to use Mrs. M. S. Draves' pattern, which is actually KnitWits Heaven's pattern - and it is free, but she modified it, and has shared her modifications with you below.

These are the Pocketbook Slippers, modified.

The Slipper

Cast on three stitches.
Increase one stitch at the beginning of this row and at the end. 5 stitches. (this creates a rounded tip)
Garter stitch or, knit each row for three rows.
Increase one stitch at the beginning of each row until there are 22 stitches.
This next row, knit the front and back of each stitch to get 44 stitches.
K2, P2 Ribbing to end until the ribbing length measures 15cm or 6".
Knit 2 together to return to 22 stitches.
Return to Garter stitch, decrease one stitch at the beginning of each row until the are five stitches.

Button Hole Strap

Row 1: *Knit 1, yo, k2tog, k2.
Row 2: Knit to end.
Row 3: Knit to end.*
Repeat until there are three button holes.

*After the last button hole: Slip 1, K2tog, Knit to end. (4 stitches)*
Repeat between *. (3 stitches)

Bind Off Row: Slip 1, K2tog, pass slipped stitch over.
Bind off.
Weave loose ends.

Finishing

Fold horizontally, bringing the triangles together, sew the ends closed.
Sew a button in the centre of the tab opposite the button hole strap.
Fasten the button to the strap and slip onto foot.

Enjoy your new stretchy slippers that will fit most depending upon your gauge.

KnitWits Heaven published the Pocketbook Slipper pattern here.

Suggested changes brought to you by YarnyGirl.
And Handmade by Jennifer

KIC: The Completed Version

2007-09-23T11:22:00.000-04:00

It has been brought to light, thanks KnottyKnitPicks, the instructions for C3B-K1 which are in Rows 8 and 18, were not quite right. But they are now! As well as the neckline instructions are corrected. Thanks pointing that out and solving the problem KKP!

Yarn Weight: Chunky Yarn
For the sample, I'm using Cascade Yarns, Eco+ 100% Peruvian Highland Wool, colour # 0958

Two skeins were purchased for this project and have quite a lot left over, but not enough for sleeves.

Needles Size: Size 6mm Circular needles

Gauge: eeek!

(as requested) Finished Measurements of the Sample:

Yoke width (from top to bottom)= 11cm or 4 1/4"

Yoke length (circumference)= 118cm or 46 1/2"

Neckline depth to yoke measures 8cm or 3"

Armhole measures 19cm or 11 1/2"

Centre Front placket length= 54cm or 21 1/4"

Centre Back length= 55cm or 21 1/2"

Abbreviations

K= Knit

P= Purl

K2Tog= K two together

C6B = Slip next 3 sts onto cable needle and hold at back of work, knit next 3 sts from left hand needle, then knit sts from cable needle.

C6F = Slip next 3 sts onto cable needle and hold at front of work, knit next 3 sts from left hand needle, then knit sts from cable needle.

C1B-K3 = Slip next stitch onto cable needle and hold at back of work, knit next 3 sts on left needle. Purl stitch from cable needle.

C3F-P1 = Slip next 3 sts onto cable needle and hold at front of work; purl next stitch on left needle. Knit sts from cable needle.

C1F-P3 = Slip next stitch onto cable needle and hold at front of work; purl next 3 sts on left needle. Knit stitch from cable needle.

C3B-K1 = Slip next 3 sts onto cable needle and hold at back of work; KNIT next stitch on left needle. PURL stitches from cable needle.

C2F= Slip 2 sts onto cable needle and hold at front of work.

C3B= Slip 3 sts onto cable needle and hold at back of work.

NB: This pattern is for an asymmetric cardigan, just like the photo I ripped out from the British Vogue.

The First Chunk, The Yoke [The repeat for cable pattern is Rows 2-21.]

CO 22 sts. Row 1 P5, K12, P5.

Row 2 Slip 1. K4, P12, K5.

Row 3 Slip 1. P4, C6B, C6B, P5.

Row 4 Slip 1. K4, P12, K5.

Row 5 Slip 1. P4, K12, P5.

Row 6 Slip 1. K4, P12, K5.

Row 7 Slip 1. P3, C1B-K3, C6F, C3F-P1, P4.

Row 8 Slip 1. K2, C1F-P3, K1, P6, K1, C3B-K1, K3.

Row 9 Slip 1. P1, C1B-K3, P2, K6, P2, C3F-P1, P2.

Row 10 Slip 1. K1, P3, K3, P6, K3, P3, K2.

Row 11 Slip 1. P1, K3, P3, K6, P3, K3, P2.

Row 12 Slip 1. K1, P3, K3, P6, K3, P3, K2.

Row 13 Slip 1. P1, K3, P3, C6F, P3, K3, P2.

Row 14 Slip 1. K1, P3, K3, P6, K3, P3, K2.

Row 15 Slip 1. P1, K3, P3, K6, P3, K3, P2.

Row 16 Slip 1. K1, P3, K3, P6, K3, P3, K2.

Row 17 Slip 1. P1, C3F-P1, P2, K6, P2, C1B-K3, P2.

Row 18 Slip 1. K2, C3B-K1, K1, P6, K1, C1F-P3, K3.

Row 19 Slip 1. P3, C3F-P1, C6F, C1B-K3, P4.

Row 20 Slip 1. K4, P12, K5.

Row 21 Slip 1. P4, K12, P5.

Repeat pattern for 12 times.

Do not cut yarn.

The Neckline

With live yarn and wrong side facing pick up 124 stitches along the length of the yoke.

Row 1: (RS) Knit this row.

Row 2: Slip the first stitch, stitch Purl to end.

Row 3: (WS) Slip 1, k2. k1, k2tog, repeat to last 3 stitches, knit to end. (decreasing row to 85 sts).

Row 4 and 6: (RS) Continue in reverse stockinette.

Row 5: (WS) Knit to end.

Row 7: (WS) Slip 1, k2. k1, k2tog, repeat to last 3 stitches, knit to end. (decreasing row to 59 sts).

Row 8: (RS) Continue in reverse stockinette.

Row 9: (WS) Slip 1, k2. k1, k2tog, repeat to last 3 stitches, knit to end. (decreasing row to 42sts).

Row 10: (RS) Knit this row.

Row 11: (WS) Bind off.

The Second Chunk, The Body

With a new yarn and wrong side facing pick up 124 stitches along the bottom length of the yoke.

Row 1: (RS) Knit through the back loop of 18 stitches, transfer 25 stitches to stitch holder (for right armhole), knit through back loop of 30 stitches, transfer 25 stitches to stitch holder (for left armhole), knit through the back loop of the next 26 stitches to end.

Row 2: (WS) Knit front and back of each stitch, increasing row to 124 stitches.

The Cables

Cable A

Row 1: Purl 1, Knit 6, Purl 1, Slip 1 Knitwise

Row 2: Knit

Row 3: Purl 1, C2F, K2, K2, P1, Slip 1 Knitwise

Row 4: Knit

Row 5: Purl 1, K6, P1, Slip 1 Knitwise

Row 6: Knit

Row 7: Purl 1, K2, C2F, K2, P1, Slip 1 Knitwise

Row 8: Knit

Cable B

Row 1: Purl 1, Knit 9, Purl 1, Slip 1 Knitwise

Row 2: Knit

Row 3: Purl 1, K9, Purl 1, Slip 1 Knitwise

Row 4: Knit

Row 5: Purl 1, K3, C3B, K3, Purl 1, Slip 1 Knitwise

Row 6: Knit

Row 7: Purl 1, K9, Purl 1, Slip 1 Knitwise

Row 8: Knit

Row 9: Purl 1, C3B, K6, Purl 1, Slip 1 Knitwise

Row 6: Knit

Row 7: Purl 1, K9, P1, Slip 1 Knitwise

Row 8: Knit

Slipping the first stitch of each row, set up your cables using the following formula:

A, B, B, A,

B, A, B, A, B, A,

A, A, B, A.

During the knitting of the cables, increase every 10 rows by stitching the front and back of each stitch before and after slipping the knit stitch in Cables A and B.

(note: do not increase at the slipped stitch closest to the opening of the cardigan, as this area needs to be straight and any flare would cause the sweater to lay wonky on your body and nobody needs that!)

Knit to 8 complete increases.

Bind off.

Placket

Along the edge of the opening, pick up stitches from one extreme edge to the other and knit stockinette through the back loop of each stitch, Purl the next row and then bind off. Do the same for the other side.

Apply snaps, or domes, at key intersections:

neckline
neckline meets yoke
yoke meets body
in the middle of numbers 2 and 3
the distance of number 4 twice more below number 3

Cap Sleeves

Knit stockinette through the back loop of each stitch from the stitch holder, Purl the next row and then bind off for the last row. Do the same for the other armhole.

Weave in all your stray yarns. Take a photo and log it on your blog or your Ravelry profile!

This is a work in progress. I am not a knitwear pattern maker. When there are problems, please let me know. I'll do my best to correct this pattern with your help.

* * * * *

Thanks goes out to all those who've contacted me and asked me questions about the pattern. To Ms. Olgajazzy who consistently posts about great fashion and knitting related topics and Ms KnottyKnitPicks who recently left me a comment that got me thinking and which lead me to this post.

If only I could be a knitwear designer.

Surfin Saturday

2007-09-22T10:58:00.000-04:00

At the end of May I changed my 9-5. In between the two jobs, I took a week off. During that week off I knitted up Twinkle's Best Friend Cardigan.
This was a super fast piece to knit up. It was frogged a few times, but really it only took me a week because knitting on 15mm is tremendously easy on the frogging-esteem. I made a number of changes throughout, changes I couldn't remember if I wanted to. I know I did add more cables than suggested and I added more ribbing on the sleeves and I use two ply of the yarn allow the thickness to at least look good with the 15mm needles. Therefore, my guage was totally off, that's probably why it fits so small. But hey, it's a knit and will s t r e t c h ! See it stretch those poor button holes.

I found the free Chunky Cabled Cardigan pattern here: Canadian Living

During my uploading of photos on Ravelry, I discovered a fellow Canadian and Twinkle Cardigan completer I would like to introduce you to: Knitteroo

Knitteroo has aslo knitted up Twinkle's Best Friend Cardigan and she has a special post with a Twinkle topic. Check her out -- she is fun and has great style!

Eye Candy

2007-09-21T22:54:00.000-04:00

How cut is this new eye candy? Super pretty sweaters and lovely tams. A new favorite of mine.

get guerilla (dot) ca gets hard

2007-09-14T10:01:00.000-04:00

A relatively new webzine, getguerilla.c a is launching its hard version tonight!
Miss Twiss is featured in its inaugural fashion segment.
Photos by Lucyna Bakowska
If you are in Ottawa, come by La Petite Mort Gallery and share a glass of bubbles with us.

Miss Twiss Fall 2007 is found at Amuse Boutique

2007-09-10T23:10:00.000-04:00

Amuse Boutique is at 248 Dalhousie North, Ottawa, Ontario, CANADA!
Wednesday, September 19th from 6 - 9pm. Drinks, Discounts & More!

Hustle Bustle is Back

2007-07-08T18:06:00.001-04:00

My Indie-Pattern for the Hustle Bustle Skirt is currently available for purchase at my Etsy shop.
I found a few from the first batch kicking around and added them to the stock list. The others are hand drafted with pen. The pattern is available for Small, Medium, and Large sizes. It comes with written instructions and this site has a tutorial for "magic tie turning trick" also know as Miss Twiss: Easy Belt Tutorial.

Please go here to view the shop.

Please visit, Miss Twiss: Things To Know for more information on this pattern.

Vancouver Friends

2007-06-21T09:05:00.001-04:00

Big Yellow House is proud to present Handmade II.

Due to the ripping success of their first craftsale, ladies of Big Yellow House are again excited to swing wide their front doors and formally invite the public to come to this second craft sale boasting local beauteous wares.

Take a look at that flyer above (hand felted and sewn by Miss Caroline Ballhorn) and write them down on your calendar. This is a spectacular crafty event NOT to be missed!

The ladies of Big Yellow House look forward to seeing you on Saturday the 23rd at 1929 Napier Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

Help Requested

2007-06-15T20:51:00.000-04:00

crystal has left a new comment on your post "Project Spectrum":

Hi Miss Twiss,

I am interested in becoming a fashion designer and you have so much flare, I just know that you will have some good tips...on courses, fashion schools, internships. You would make a great mentor. Any advice you could provide would be great.

*************************************************************************************

my bark: Alright, Crystal you asked for it!

my bite: Woah, fashion in so vast, but I'll try.

Where ever you happen to be in your schooling years, or where you happen to be in thisvery wide world, it is important to develop your skills by learning as much as you possibly can about your field.

Learn to sew
Play with fabric
Understand how fabric is made
Understand how your sewing machine works and master it
Don't be afraid to sew the little things by hand
FINISH A PROJECT
Think about that project
Are you proud of it?
How would you change it for you to be proud?
Change it
Be proud!
Read patterns
Sew for yourself
Volunteer at a designer's studio
Read about designers you admire
Go to trunk shows when they are in town
Talk to the designer if you can
Talk to those in the industry (your on the right path)
Watch films with great costumes
Sketch a little bit everyday until you develop your own style. That is very important. Duplication is NOT original, nor unique, nor desired.
Learn from duplication sure, but proceed cautiously.
Take out as many books as possible in your library about Fashion and read them!

This list is endless. If you love it, immerse yourself with it.

Go into boutiques that carry the fashions you are interested in and learn about them from the sales staff. Try stuff on. Buy it if you really want to collect that particular piece. Look at how it is constructed.
Learn all about the designer you like, meet them, ask them tonnes of questions, volunteer for them if they let you, let them know you support them and want to learn.
Set a goal for yourself. By the time I'm out of college, I'm.... going to continue my education at, intern at, travel... etc. By the time I'm 30 years old, I want... blah, blah, blah. Etc. Always set goals for yourself. Include those who you love with those goals, they'll be happy you do. You are young now, just thing about where you want to be when you are older.
Read fashion magazines, I mean really read them. Look at what the model is wearing and read who designed it. Don't pay much attention to the cost of it, because most items are ridiculously high priced and belong to a different species of customer in this world.
Use your medium (as you are) for resource. Try not to spend too much time on it, unless it provides you all your source of income.

By the time you are ready for post secondary education you have enough understanding of what it takes to produce an article of clothing and you could have a few items to show to your school of choice in a portfolio.

Now which schools?
Well, that all depends on the type of student you are and what you want from your education.
You could go to a University or a College. One gives a degree, the other a certificate, respectively. One is for academics, the other for hands on, respectively.

The best that money can buy?

Contact the schools of your dreams, ask them to send you information. Before you know it you will be bombarded by tonnes of thick envelopes with glossy fun pages all about the schools for you to read and re-read and plan your next step.

Internships?

Inquire with school councellors

Summer Programs

Through Parsons visit Paris
At Central Saint Martins

What can I say, this is simply my advice for you Crystal, I could be way off. Take it your own way and ask lots of questions. People who are the ones willing to hire you are interested in creative, POLITE, interested young people. If you know another language or are obviously interested in learning a new language that can only help you in landing job.

Good luck to you and report back if and if only this advice has helped you in anyway.

******************************************
If there is anyone else out there in InternetLand who wishes to add to what I've left out, please do. Link it and post it or comment it.

2007-06-12T16:26:00.000-04:00

This is what I did with my belty thing. Added it to a kimono thingy.

It is available at my etsy shop.

Easy Belt Tutorial

2007-06-08T10:34:00.000-04:00

End Use: Belt
Fabric: 5cm x 75cm times two
Instructions:

Sew narrow ends together.
On sewing machine or serger, sew up a length of thread tail prior to sewing.
With right side of fabric facing up, fold a 2cm overlap underneath, bring thread tail over the middle section of the length of your piece to be sewn.
Fold the piece over, while bringing right sides together, make sure the thread tail is still in the middle. Sew the long edge while maintaining the thread tail is free. See the thread tail?
If you take a look at my thumb below, you can see the thread tail poking from the fold.
When there isn't enough thread tail to peep out, gently pull the tail to give it the slack it needs. You want to complete the sewing of this length with the thread tail at the end.
Gently pull the belt inside out, but do not pull it past your sewing machine foot. Not just yet.
Keep the thread tail close to the fold of the piece.
Sew to the end.
Cut your threads and pull the remaining belt until it is completely turned.
Tuck long thread inside the seam allowance. Tie ends.
Voila! A belty thing.

Sum Summer 2007

2007-06-07T08:44:00.000-04:00

K.I.C.

2007-06-06T08:06:00.000-04:00

Knit In Chunks has been a labour of love. It was last August when I saw the image of the Pringle sweater in the fashion magazines. It was British Vogue who printed the largest version, thank you BV.

Now a little history:
The counting of how many years I've been interested and physically participating in my world of fashion happened the other day, I was in my kitchen and it dawned on me. I've been interested in this field for twenty-five years! Let me premise that I was still in high school but an experienced sewer then. Sewing came easily to me, easier than academics.

Now the facts:
Its been quite a while since I've felt passionately about fashion. I mean the kind of curiosity and excitement an image or silhouette or fabric or person can incite (Rochas did it for me but it was short lived). Why the passion subsides is another topic, but this Pringle sweater triggered something in me.

I was challenged. To see knitting in fashion and the complication of it.

The simplicity of the core. Three pattern pieces really. Yoke. Body. Sleeve. The challenge of the cabeling and the challenge of writing it down.

There was one commenter who suggested "A Knitting Treasury", gave me the page number and the pattern names. But I didn't go that route, it would have been too easy. I needed to figure this one out on my own. And then share it.

You see, I swatched that yoke cabel pattern for hours until I was satisfied with the representation. I tried cabeling on the wrong side and it worked. It was right! By the time "A Knitting Treasury" came in from the library, it was like checking the math answers in the back of the book.

I learned.

Thank you commenter. To my regret, I was changing my comment tool around that time of your comment and it and other comments are lost.

Miss Twiss Joins Etsy

2007-05-22T12:37:00.001-04:00

Update Knit-In-Chunks

2007-05-22T02:54:00.000-04:00

OK I've been neglecting my duties.
As a designer, a crafter and one who shares my skills in knocking off the Pringle sweater, I'm going to promise to do my best to post the rest of this pattern within three weeks.
I'll also pledge to post about this progress every week.

Keep up with the kicking me in my pants!

not YOUR GRANDMA'S CRAFTSALE

2007-05-08T19:06:00.000-04:00

Not Your Grandma's Spring Craft Sale hits Mothers Day weekend

Ottawa – Ladyfest Ottawa, in collaboration with punkottawa.com, presents a craft sale like no other. Featuring the hip, unique work of local artists and crafters, Not Your Grandma's Spring Craft Sale takes place May 12, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Jack Purcell Community Centre.

Those looking to flee the mall to find hip and unique handmade gifts have made this craft sale an anticipated event. Not Your Grandma's Craft Sale is an edgy, DIY twist on the traditional craft bazaar. From handmade purses and accessories to silk-screened t-shirts and underwear, modernist toys to tattoo-themed baby clothes, this craft sale is a great source for one-of-a-kind gifts. It’s a perfect opportunity to spend some quality time with mom or grab an unusual last-minute gift.

Ladyfest Ottawa and punkottawa.com continue their tradition of supporting DIY talent in Ottawa, partnering on music events and craft sales that fit the both their mandates.

Ladyfest Ottawa is part of a tradition of grassroots-organized festivals showcasing the talents of female artists. Now in its fifth year, Ladyfest Ottawa strives to build relationships and collaborations with local artists and businesses, in order to provide women with a venue for artistic expression that is open to everyone. More info on Ladyfest Ottawa and the craft sale can be found at www.ladyfestottawa.com.

Also since 2001, punkottawa.com has provided resources and a virtual gathering place for the local underground/DIY community, not only catering to music, but also activism and social change.

Not Your Grandma's SPRING Craft Sale
Date: Saturday, May 12, 2007
Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Location: Jack Purcell Community Centre, 320 Elgin St (at Lewis)

Project Spectrum

2007-04-05T20:18:00.000-04:00

This is my entry for February/March Project Spectrum,

Blue, White, Grey:

A trench coat I designed for my Spring collection. It has lace details at the collar, sleeve, and on the yoke.

Harvest Queens

2007-03-28T17:52:00.000-04:00

My girlfriend's documentary, Harvest Queens is to premier on television tonight. Tune into TVO, The View From Here at 10:15pm and it repeats on Sunday, April 1st at 10pm.

Break a leg Janis!

Pointe Shoes Pursuits: Canada's Capital Knitters

2007-03-26T13:45:00.000-04:00

Pointe Shoes Pursuits: Canada's Capital Knitters

I'm in!

50s Sample Suit Sale

2007-03-25T17:45:00.000-04:00

For Sale - Five Pieces in a Two Piece Suit

A one of a kind suit. In Emerald Green. Size 4. Waist 26 inches.

From the patterns I received, I've sewn a few. From these I've modified. Reducing the depth of the shoulder, moving the dart over, moving the apex, lengthening the sleeve, the body, decreasing the bulk, lining the garment, etcetera. An entire re-modification process.

This is my sample suit and it is for sale. Here are a list of the attributes of the suit:

100% Viscose Jacquard
Hook & Eye closure (two spaced approximately 8cm apart)
3/4 length sleeve - great for a long glove
Fully lined in pretty calico-like fabric

Softly gathered at front near the side seam (no front darts)
Below the knee skirt (I'm 5'2")
Centre back zip with kick vent at hem
Waist band
Hip measures (I've a very narrow hip)

One of a kind Emerald Jacquard suit.

Tube It!

2007-03-20T08:26:00.000-04:00

The Tube
I hope you can read the instructions when you click on the image. Let me know if you can't and I'll email you the jpg.

Ingredients:
Fabric Preferably knits, I don't recommend woven fabric as it might not be able to stretch as well around our curvier parts. Require length for these instructions 60cm.
Elastic 5mm elastic. Cut 5 pieces of your size.
XS = 55cm
S = 65cm
M = 75cm
L = 95cm
XL = 105cm
Scissors
Sewing Machine that does a zig-zag stitch
Measuring Tape
Chalk

With right side facing in
Cut on Fold
XS = 45cm x 60cm (60cm is the length I'm suggesting, choose yours as you like!)
S = 53cm x 60cm
M = 61cm x 60cm
L = 69cm x 60cm
XL =77cm x 60cm

Along the wrong side of the fabric, chalk 2cm from top cut edge a 2cm line. Chalk a total of 5 lines 2cm apart.

Chalk the cross marks
At the fold (centre front)

At the 1/4 marks (between the fold and the centre back)
Flip piece over and mark the other 1/4 marks
You will have a total of three marks along these lines, the raw edge being the fourth

Pen your 1/4 marks on your elastic
Fold in half, 1/2 mark
Fold the half to the ends, 1/4 mark
You will have a total of three marks along the elastic, the raw edges being the fourth

Sewing the Elastic
Along the wrong side of the fabric, stabilize the elastic at the edge.
Sew zig zag and pull both the fabric and the elastic, matching the 1/4 marks, following the chalk line.
Repeat until all 5 pieces of your elastic are sewn.

With right sides together sew 1cm from the edge the centre back, making sure all the elastic ends are sewn into the seam.

How to Wear It

Were with a long sleeved top underneath as a layering piece, cinche it with a belt and tight-tight jeans!
With a tight top with leggings and wear it as a high waisted skirt
Or as a low waisted skirt with a few tank tops layered one over the other, a bunch of cheap long necklaces and flats

Karma. Share something with someone you don't know today.

Long Live Radio3

2007-03-17T20:01:00.000-04:00

Tonight is the last broadcasting of Radio3 on CBC Radio. You can still listen to it, via Serius Satellite Radio Channel 94 or Podcast or Website.

This change really pisses me off because you should see what CBC is replacing it with! Can I try to understand, knowing I am no longer their demographic. I don't get it.

Fashion content, here is the lovely, the talented, the charming, the handsome, the intelligent, the dashing, the geeky, the twangy velvety voiced, Grant Lawrence:

Isn't he handsome? Check him out looking at the bottom left corner of your 'puter screen with those steely blue eyes.

I'm Such a Joiner

2007-03-16T19:50:00.000-04:00

I've gone and joined Project Spectrum

--------------------------------------

Version 2.0 Color Triads

February / March
Blue, White, Gray

April / May
Green, Yellow, Pink

June / July
Red, Black, Metallics

August / September
Brown, Orange, Purple

It is really about expressing yourself creatively - making something beautiful, and creating something unique with your hands. It is also about thinking outside of the box - perhaps taking up a new hobby, or a long neglected one, or finally dabbling in design.

Projects can be big or small - whether you plan to lay tile in your kitchen or photograph a tree in your backyard - it is not a race, it is just about sharing your creative work to inspire others.

--------------------------------------

So I've decided to join. I'm ready for this challenge. I'm hoping to post soon with my first Blue, White, and Grey series.

The Trenches

2007-03-10T08:04:00.000-05:00

Miss Twiss Designs presents:

Indigenous Camouflage Trench Coat, 100% cotton. Raw edges, fully lined, pockets, yoked back with gathering for comfort in movement and lace trim along the belt.

Today, this Trench is featured in SHABYCHIC in the STYLE Section in The Ottawa Citizen, page J08. Indigenous Camouflage is the one in the upper right corner.

Here's a shot of the back.

And then, one in black, with lacey-white contrast buttons (a black one right at the belt line), and more lace trimming the hem.

After placing these items into the boutique, a few hours later they called me to inform me that the black Trench sold! To a wonderful customer who is, now officially, a collector of mine.

Edit: Hi Colleen, I created them from my very soul! They do have a timeless quality about them.

I've Been Gifted

2007-03-06T11:27:00.000-05:00

Thank you Closet Queen! I helped her reduce her clutter and I welcome it!

I met Deidre Spaan, professional organizer at a Cherry Pie event last week. She saw my outfit and we got started talking. She told me it reminded her of the styles she wore int he 60s and does she have some patterns I might be interested in!

I told her I appreciate the vintage patterns because back then, they produced a style for simple style, not to cut corners in cost and to gouge potential buyers.

Dart placements are in unusual places, waistlines are in different places, shoe and hair styles are fascinating to watch from year to year and the most interesting thing was the measurements for a size 14, in the 60s, were:

Bust=34" Waist=26" Hip=36"

Thank you Deidre Spaan for sharing your stories, your memories and your mum and your patterns with me. They are in good hands.

That's My Girl!

2007-03-05T00:28:00.000-05:00

Lesley is foiling her needles at Jenny Potter, journalist and writer of Buxton runs close-knit needle group, read it here, in The Algonquin Times!

Two Timing

2007-02-15T14:46:00.000-05:00

I'm around. I think about you guys all the time. It is -30 degrees Celcius here today and yesterday it didn't stop snowing. The winter fashions are not mentionable but the sometimes the weather inspires.

The Knit In Chunks is on my mind to compile and to complete.

Lately I've been spending my time elsewhere in blog land.

www.amuseboutique.com

I've a few other priorities these days, like OPENING MY OWN BRICKS & MORTAR PLACE!

More about that later.

There, that should be enough to keep you interested.

Tick-Tick-Tick

2007-01-30T14:43:00.000-05:00

Check this out!

fifteen...

For Those in Toronto

2007-01-25T11:40:00.000-05:00

Read about the best little poster gallery on Queen Street East!

2007-01-22T06:57:00.000-05:00

My guy reads Pitchfork Media like it was his daily news. This morning he shared this with me and I'd like this video with you:

Listen to those shrieks! It's like the concert all over again, but darker.

Fashion Content

Renata Morales Montreal's sweetheart and former Ottawa resident and boutique owner, is the Arcade Fire's costume mistress. They looked super cool, until they started sweating and that's just sexy -- in a rock & roll way.

The Day After the Arcade Fire

2007-01-20T16:26:00.000-05:00

Alison asked, "How was it?"

Even though I was without corsage, was a lot of fun to watch the teachers and the volunteers get ready for the entourage of students and former students. The doors opened (7:15pm) and the coat check was super efficient (we're in winter here and have many layers of chunky stuff) the tickets were all accounted for (each checked off from a number of lists) -- about 400 tickets in all.

The band started the set at 8pm. They played for a full hour, returned for an encore and filed into the lobby to talk to the students and sign autographs until just after 10pm. We were home by 11pm on a Friday night.

The band was so generous. A few of the members are from Ottawa and I think it is fabulous of them to return and play a free concert for an arts school -- supporting the art community and setting an example to those who've "made it".

I wonder if, after 10 years, those students who were at the concert will return to their school and support it. I'm sure some will.

I think they will because I watched a group of them work together to clean up and I saw how they worked together. They returned the school cafeteria to its natural state. Such respectful and creative and pleasant and happy young people.

What a different experience.

p.s. Nephews and nieces, sorry there wasn't any swag to be had.

Edit: Sienna reminded me of a very important detail, that tickets were $25 each. Even though the Arcade Fire played the gig for free, they allowed the school to generated sales for their arts program.

Here in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, the separate school board is supported by the Provincial Government and it has been the governments policy to cut dollars from arts programs (since who really sees the benefit from art?). So the event was a great fund raiser for this individual Art school. Enough with sticky politicky.

Buy The Arcade Fire's new album, available in fine record stores or directly from Merge Records, on March 6th.

This Friday Night!

2007-01-17T11:49:00.000-05:00

ONE NIGHT ONLY!

Ever wanted the best band in the world to come to your high school and play at a dance? Lucky for me I don't go to high school anymore, but my guy, well he is a high school teacher. And, lucky for me, he teaches at one of the high schools one of the band members graduated from.

I have three things to tell you.

I have a ticket.
I will be present.
I am going to see The Arcade Fire

We'll be feeling like high school kids this weekend.

Nieces & nephews, sorry guys, G couldn't swing more than one. I'll get some swag while I'm there...

Erratatatatum

2007-01-12T10:12:00.000-05:00

In the Knit In Chunks pattern, it has been graciously pointed out to me there are a few errors that could cause some amount of frustration and unnecessary brain exertion.

Some errors could be my interpretation of how a knitting pattern should be instructed, since I don't have much experience with patterns please note I get creative. Some errors could be simple transcribing errors. And since this is my first pattern I made up all by myself, with the help of a lovely torn page out of a British Vogue, I welcome the corrections.

I will try my best to get re-acquainted with the instructions this weekend. In the meantime, let me warn any who approach this piece to Proceed Cautiously.

New Boots

2007-01-06T19:48:00.000-05:00

These are the boots, that walked all over Munich and walk all over Ottawa.

Alright, they aren't the style of boot that are in style right now, tall, slouchy and gots something tucked into the. I'm not really the kind of girl to be follow fashion. I try to have my own style.

The boots are far too practical but that is why I love them so.

Here, I'm trying to get a good shot of the sweater by myself.

The back is the best shot of all.

I'm liking the sleeveless bit about this piece. I love it when fashion is derived from function!

Throught Process

2007-01-06T12:26:00.000-05:00

Here some evidence of my thought process to making Knit In Chunks.

Lots of scratching. All for the greater good of knit.

Click on image to enlarge-like super duper size.

Fifteen Minutes Are Adding Up!

2007-01-05T19:35:00.000-05:00

My locale Stitch 'N' Bitch is featured in The Ottawa Citizen, January 4, 2007, C9!
That's my gorgeous girlfriend Lesley Buxton. Writer of short stories, produced playwright, and envied cheekbones, check them out!

You see, my first day back to work I had two interviews, the first on the phone and the other in person. The following day I had a photo shoot for the "in person" interview, with the article in the days paper.

Then the following day CBC Television came into the boutique to shoot a mini segment that will be broad casted on January 19th. Living In Ottawa to be debuts on January 15th, 1pm, check it out.

I'm hoping the rest of the year will continue at this pace. Press is press.

This Just In!

2007-01-03T14:54:00.000-05:00

Picking up stitches along the opening to build the placket. That ball of yarn is getting lighter!

Mom saw this photo and thought it was a child's dress. I can see her point, specially since this piece will not have any sleeves. Despite the fact that I'm tired of knitting multiple cables and I don't think I'll have enough yarn, I've decided on cap sleeves for the sheer style of it all. I see the classic long sleeved turtle neck to be worn underneath with a great pair of jeans and my new BOOTS!

Knit In Chunks is Coming Along

2007-01-03T13:24:00.000-05:00

Instructions for the Neckline:

Do not cut yarn, with live yarn and wrong side facing pick up 124 stitches along the length of the yoke.

Row 1: (RS) Knit this row.

Row 2: Slip the first stitch, stitch Purl to end.
Row 3: (WS) Slip 1, k2. *k1, k2tog*, repeat to last 3 stitches, knit to end. (decreasing row to 85 sts).
Row 4: (RS) Continue in reverse stockinette.
Row 7: (WS) Slip 1, k2. *k1, k2tog*, repeat to last 3 stitches, knit to end. (decreasing row to 59 sts).
Row 8: (RS) Continue in reverse stockinette.
Row 9: (WS) Slip 1, k2. *k1, k2tog*, repeat to last 3 stitches, knit to end. (decreasing row to 42sts).

The lower body is on its way.

Kulture

2007-01-02T21:36:00.000-05:00

Cashmere & Co. a fine little boutique I came across in my travels. Cashmere knitted sweaters in odd mixtures of magenta with turquoise and navy, which gave a tweedy effect but wasn't tweed. The ply of yarn were different colours. Or were they tweeded? I was a little intimidated.

The clothing was simple and pretty. Light boiled wool skirts with lace fabric ironed onto the hem and the hem of the inside back of the skirt, which hung lower than the front. Clever. Or the same design but slightly modified, with a straight hem and a panel of long quilted bits along the side, like racing stripes. There was neither side seam. The long quilted bits came from the hem and went all the way up to the waist and curved an upside down "U" 15cm from the top and returned to the hem. The pattern piece is one weird shape, centre front cut on fold with slashes from where the side seams should be. Kinda like a "W".

I could only take photos from the outside.

At Hause de Kunst, below, remnants of a re-enactment of a Krakow happening from the 60s. Yarn bits.

It was madness. I wonder how it all came about. We also saw Black Paintings.

Conversions

2006-12-17T14:19:00.000-05:00

Canadian to Euros

Well that was easy, I went up to the money exchange place, presented the amount of Canadian dollars I had to buy Euros with and now I have spending money!
Me and my guy will be in Munich over the holidays.
Off to see the Flavin Retrospective Pinakotheck de Moderne, to try something different for December.
We figure the Alps in the background is a good place to end one year and begin the next.
It'll be my first time.

Old Skule to Beta

Forgive me, I've converted to Beta. Hey, back in the 80s it was better quality than video and now look. This time I'll give it a try. Though I'm having a difficult time getting my format back. Things will be back to normal soon enough.

Stolen Bag to Summer Bag

Sometime between returning from work, (via transit) and opening my front door my bag was stolen. Well it wasn't stolen from my person, I foolishly forgot it, but it wasn't returned to me, so I consider it stolen.
Good thing I didn't have my passport with me at the time.
In my bag was my knitting... and two new balls of yarn ready to be started.
I haven't had the urge since. To knit, to replace the knitting, or to knit for that new baby.
I have to carry my ugly old summer purse now.

Until the New Year my friends. Have a happy time with your family and friends. I look forward to reading all about your holidays, your new projects in the works, the yarn Santa brought you, in the New Year. May you have lots of sunshine and a very snowy Christmas.

Spins & Needles at La Petite Mort Gallery

2006-12-13T10:23:00.000-05:00

Thursday, December 14th.

Knock-Off Knit-Off

2006-11-17T11:29:00.000-05:00

Has anyone seen Dopamine Fiend's recent project? Incredible! Go on over there and tell her how magnificient it is!

Here is an updated picture of my "Knit In Chunks", Pringle knock-off.

See that wee stick pocking out of the left side of the sweater, just below the yoke panel, it's kinda purply-pink? That's a present my sister gave me, last week when she was in town (a whirlwind visit from the West Coast). It is out of cherry wood and intended for cabling. Lovely. Thanks Di.

Watermelon Rose

2006-11-13T14:23:00.000-05:00

Tailored Shawl Collar Jacket

I bought this knitted fabric. Worked out a pattern. Sewed it up. Exaggerated the texture of the unfinished look.
This is what I got. I'm very pleased with the result.

Feeling Green

2006-11-13T10:45:00.000-05:00

It was in September when I forecasted the completion of this sweater for October. Why not? A month to knit a sleeve was an informed guess. I did not foresee that last sleeve taking as long as it did.

Specifications

Pattern: Forecast by Glampyre, available at Knitty

Yarn: Brown Sheep Company, Cotton Fleece (80% Cotton 20% Merino) in Holy Green CW470, 215 yards per skein, I used 4 Skeins, if I were to omit the contrasting colours, I would use 5 skeins.

Needles: 3.25mm and 4mm non-name circulars

Inspiration: Plenty. The seed was first planted when I read Kris's post, and around the same time, Laura's photo of her sweater to Glampyre.

Modifications: I followed Laura's height of ribbing and basic changes to her bobbles. Because my yarn was not close to the one recommended, my gauge was completely off. Therefore, I knit to length and width and followed the premis of the pattern. I also added colour to the bobbles and striping along the ridges. Was it because I was scared not to have enough yarn or a way to match my multiple buttons? It certainly wasn't planned that way.

I'm happy with the result. At last a green cardigan to add to my wardrobe!

For a better picture of the back and bobbles check this link out.

Mandate

2006-11-01T13:39:00.000-05:00

On Monday I met Debbie Bliss. A trunk show organized by my favourite yarn store that is far too far away from me, Wool 'n Things. The owner, Gisele is wonderful. She listens to what her customers have to say and she's brought in so many different yarns over the two years she's been open. An incredible assortment of Debbie Bliss, Rowan, Fibre Artist, Koigu, Noro and plenty of sock yarns from heaven!

Debbie Bliss was lovely. Forthcoming. Generous. She discussed and showed us her process of coming into her ideas about her projects, either for books or seasonal yarns, actually the two are hand in hand. She discussed what she considers for each project: difficulty, sizing, ease of end use (or degree of difficulty for parents to dress children). She showed us her sketches with swatches and colour combinations. Then she had a few ladies in the audience put on her completed sweaters. For each sample sweater she discussed the yarn, the details of the pattern and everyone ooohed and awed at each.

Sizing seems to give her much grief. From what I gather, larger women want her designs for their sizes, but Debbie Bliss feels the line strays from the intent of the design when piece gets to a certain size. As well as cost of yarn and weight of project, she feels is not fair to the knitter. Even though there are knitting books out there for the larger and fuller figured woman, there is definitely a demand for those designs.

This is the beginnings of the Ribbon-Edged Cardigan. Found in the book Debbie Bliss Special Knits, page 28. In the Debbie Bliss Cashmerino yarn. For a special little girl I haven't met yet. I'm pretty lucky, I'm able to knit this one at work. I get about a button hole a day... Stay tuned for more length in another entry.

I decided to make it my mandate this year to try to meet as many knitwear designers I can. So, I've made a list for Gisele and I hope she considers a few!

Next month, the Yarn Harlot will be around. I missed her the last time and will not miss her this time.

Gold Silk Tweed

2006-10-13T11:22:00.000-04:00

Fully lined wrap around skirt with deep pockets, tidy belt and textured trim.

Knit In Chunks

2006-10-10T12:30:00.000-04:00

Here you go! My first (portion of a) pattern.

Now, I developed a few abbreviations but with common instructions, let me know if another abbreviation is better or more consistent with our "knit world" and it's terminology.

If you are not familiar with cables, this pattern is a challenging 20 rows. However, I hope the instructions are easy enough to read to keep you going.

Yarn Weight: Chunky Yarn
For the sample, I'm using Cascade Yarns, Eco+ 100% Peruvian Highland Wool, colour # 0958
Needles Size: Size 6mm Circular needles

Abbreviations:

C6B = Slip next 3 sts onto cable needle and hold at back of work, knit next 3 sts from left hand needle, then knit sts from cable needle.
C6F = Slip next 3 sts onto cable needle and hold at front of work, knit next 3 sts from left hand needle, then knit sts from cable needle.
C1B-K3 = Slip next stitch onto cable needle and hold at back of work, knit next 3 sts on left needle. Purl stitch from cable needle.
C3F-P1 = Slip next 3 sts onto cable needle and hold at front of work; purl next stitch on left needle. Knit sts from cable needle.
C1F-P3 = Slip next stitch onto cable needle and hold at front of work; purl next 3 sts on left needle. Knit stitch from cable needle.
C3B-K1 = Slip next 3 sts onto cable needle and hold at back of work; purl next stitch on left needle. Knit stitch from cable needle.

The First Chunk, The Yoke

[The repeat for cable pattern is Rows 2-21.]

CO 22 sts.
Row 1 P5, K12, P5.
Row 2 Slip 1. K4, P12, K5.
Row 3 Slip 1. P4, C6B, C6B, P5.
Row 4 Slip 1. K4, P12, K5.
Row 5 Slip 1. P4, K12, P5.
Row 6 Slip 1. K4, P12, K5.
Row 7 Slip 1. P3, C1B-K3, C6F, C3F-P1, P4.
Row 8 Slip 1. K2, C1F-P3, K1, P6, K1, C3B-K1, K3.
Row 9 Slip 1. P1, C1B-K3, P2, K6, P2, C3F-P1, P2.
Row 10 Slip 1. K1, P3, K3, P6, K3, P3, K2.
Row 11 Slip 1. P1, K3, P3, K6, P3, K3, P2.
Row 12 Slip 1. K1, P3, K3, P6, K3, P3, K2.
Row 13 Slip 1. P1, K3, P3, C6F, P3, K3, P2.
Row 14 Slip 1. K1, P3, K3, P6, K3, P3, K2.
Row 15 Slip 1. P1, K3, P3, K6, P3, K3, P2.
Row 16 Slip 1. K1, P3, K3, P6, K3, P3, K2.
Row 17 Slip 1. P1, C3F-P1, P2, K6, P2, C1B-K3, P2.
Row 18 Slip 1. K2, C3B-K1, K1, P6, K1, C1F-P3, K3.
Row 19 Slip 1. P3, C3F-P1, C6F, C1B-K3, P4.
Row 20 Slip 1. K4, P12, K5.
Row 21 Slip 1. P4, K12, P5.

Repeat pattern for x times.

* * * * * * * * ** * * *

Stay tuned for the next installmentt of instructions of KNIT IN CHUNKS.

If you notice any errors, please email me and I'll correct and inform immediately.

Progress Report

2006-10-04T10:47:00.000-04:00

The Pringle sweater is getting much attention and thank you all who are interested in this project of mine.

So far it stands a difficult test: I've looked at my tear sheet hundreds of times and I haven't gotten sick of it yet! So here is my progress. I almost have the cable pattern down pat. All I have to do it true the pattern and post my notes to you. But first, here is a taste of what it looks like:

Not bad. There are still some bits that need working on. I'm hoping to post the cable part of the pattern when I feel 100% about it. I'm off to Montreal for the weekend so I'm bound to knit for a good few hours in a row, there and back.

While knitting this piece, over and over and over again, I find the back turning into an interesting texture and pattern itself... hmn deconstructed cabling.. thinking .. thinking!

This sweater is going to be as lovely on the outside as it will be on the inside.

(I know it is Wednesday today, but...) Have a great weekend and to all those Canadian readers, a lovely and relaxing and well-fed ThanksGiving!

Forecast: October Expects Blustery Sleeve

2006-09-25T14:23:00.000-04:00

One more sleeve to go!

I find it amazing when I have a cold I can get lots of knitting done. This weekend I finished my left sleeve, created the button bands, sewed on some pretty buttons and tucked in all the loose ends.

Now only the right sleeve to go. I hope to have that done in a few weeks. Now, where did I put those circulars?

KNIT-IT Ottawa 2006

2006-09-22T19:33:00.000-04:00

Photos are brought to you by the National Art Gallery of Canada.

You can click on this link to view Maman in real time.

Maman

2006-09-04T10:55:00.000-04:00

Louise Bourgeois' Maman, photo by Christopher Davidson. This photo was taken a dozen or so months ago.

Under her cradling limbs is where KNIT-IT will be taking place on September 21st, from 1-2pm.

Click here to view the Spider Web Cam which is updated every 10 seconds.

KNIT-IT IS BACK!

2006-08-31T09:46:00.000-04:00

GET READY FOR THE NEXT INSTALMENT!!!
World Wide Exhibition 2004 - 2006

An art piece about Caring and Compassion

KNIT IT is based on interactive participation of men and women of all ages knitting on white knitwear.
Outfit: Dark Suit, White Shirt, Red Tie, Black Shoes
KNIT: SOMETHING WHITE!

First exhibition was on September 21st 2004. Followed twice a year at same hours.

Next exhibition is September 21st 2006.

MEET UNDER THE SPIDER AT THE NATIONAL GALLERY OF CANADA!

Performance hours from 1 - 2 PM (13 - 14) local hours. Participation makes you directly a living part of the artwork!

All previous KNIT IT exhibitions:Athens, Berlin, Chicago, Gaspésie, Gatineau, Gjøvik, Gothenburg, Hamar, Istanbul, Lillehammer, Lillestrøm, Kaunas, London, Moss, Mumbai (Bombay), Gaspésie, Gatineau, Gjøvik, Gothenburg, Hamar, Istanbul, Lillehammer, Lillestrøm, Kaunas, London, Moss, Mumbai (Bombay), New York, Oslo, Ottawa, Rome, Stavanger, Teheran, Trondheim, Uddevalla, Uppsala, Venice, Västerås, Ålesund, and Århus.

KNIT IT Gallery: http://www.brakstad.net/sider/knitit.htm Galleries are attached to the cities where pictures are available. Click on the cities and take a look!

Pringle of Scotland Crushes Me

2006-08-18T16:08:00.000-04:00

Have you seen this? This killer sweater is by Pringle of Scotland and it drives me mad! I tore this out of British VOGUE perhaps and it inspires me like none other in a long while.

I must attempt to make this magnificent sweater.

I found this HUGE skein of yarn and figured since I'm little, I could make a sweater from 2 skeins (with a total of about 925m!).

Below you will see how it rolls into one very large ball, with a centre pull, of course. It felt like a new exercise, I was on my bed with the skein between my feet, winding and winding and I wouldn't finish until it was completed. It took most of the evening news and a John Stewart Show.

It was worth it. Isn't it crazy big? Those are my fancy, vintage Gianni Versace sun glasses my best girl gave me. They used to belong to her mum. Now I'm the lucky one.

Original Yarn

2006-08-18T16:04:00.000-04:00

A long overdue post! Way back when I went shopping online, I haven't been able to blog about it until now.
Counting Mermaids made this by hand. She is a very talented spinner and I look forward to watching her blog and her pretty pictures of her gorgeous yarn!

The little button at the bottom says, "I BUY INDIE". There is another, but I'm wearing it right now and it says, "I MAKE STUFF". Also in her package to me, was a little book she made just for me to put my secrets into. I've jotted a few in.

And lastly in her package, this yarn. Spun just for me! It is "Twissquila Sunrise". It is absolutely beautiful! And no allergies! My only allergy is the entire month of August, it makes me sneeze.

Until I figure out what to knit with these pretties, I will display them in a lovely bowl on my coffee table, as a centre piece, in my living room.

I urge you to check out Counting Mermaids' etsy store found here.

The unmistakable

2006-08-14T10:23:00.000-04:00

One thrid of Glampyre's Orangina is complete. In original orange no less.

With the amount of ripping back, I knit this front piece a few times over. Finally I have the nerve to knit this lace in public. But for some reason, I can't bring my self to cast on for the back piece. Therefore, this project will settle a little while in my stash pile.

Speaking of stash, check out my revised pile! I'm so pleased. My girlfriend had this crazy idea to get together with a bunch of others and all our unwanted bits and pieces to exchange or loose. She called it the "Scrap and Swap", and we did it last week. All the remaining yarn and crafty stuff went to a local Senior Citizens centre where they knit and have craft sales. So, check out my new stash pile:

November is the time when the Seniors have their craft sale. I'm sure to report on that adventure and see if I can identify any yarn bits donated.

Green Cardigan

2006-08-13T17:11:00.000-04:00

Long ago this season, the search to find the right pattern for a green cardigan started like this.

I came across this military styled green cardigan in this blurry picture in KNIT 1. I had completed the Golden cardi recently and felt the ribbing would be much too repetitive for both my wardrobe and my interest, but I do like the touch on the horizontal button facing especially the opening at the bottom.

Next I saw this hoodie with oodles of cables in Knit Scene. Now, everyone needs a hoodie!

Then I received my new IK and I spotted this, another cable oodling hoodie - my gaud its an epidemic! Green sweaters everywhere!

But when Strikker posted her progress on Forecast, it was that style that stayed with me. Just enough cable, interesting top down cardigan, and fun clusters of bobbles. Not soon before or after that Glampyre posted this an entry about another Laura who knitted a bubblegum pink Forecast, see the original post here. This sweater slew me! And that was that. Here is my progress.

When I was in Toronto a few weeks ago and found this Cotton Fleece (80% Cotton, 20% Merino - and very soft) by The Brown Sheep Company, Inc. in the just right green. By the way, it is more Kelly green than emerald.

You might notice, you might not, but I've modified the bobble cluster cable bit, just like Glampyre's Laura did. I'm going to knit the ribbing high too, it looks flattering.

KnittingChick

2006-08-04T10:19:00.000-04:00

Now I know why most bloggers randomly select a winner for their contests. My big fat idea was to select the best. I love my readers equally, but I will stand by my first claim to choose the most original affliction to the word: CHANGE.

KnittingChick, please send me your snail mail address

so I can pop a pretty crochet necklace into the mail for you.

Now, for a change, heh-heh, it is obvious I'm not blogging as much these days, but I'll be making up for it. I'm knitting up a storm and I'll be posting more of that soon. Please stay tuned.

My Word of the Day

2006-07-21T19:52:00.000-04:00

Here is a contest for you. But let me warn you, it does take a little concentration.

The contest is: What is My Word of the Day?

Here are some clues:

The last one might tax you (sorry Gina, but yours isn't as obvious as the other clues; the reading is well worth the effort, though).

Just to make sure those who don't touch their 'puter over the weekend can play, this contest will go until Tuesday night.

Here is how to win:

Tell me what My Word of the Day is and how it affects you. The winner will NOT be RANDOMLY selected!

I will send one of my Gold Crochet Necklaces to the one who has the most original affliction from the said My Word of the Day.

I know I'm asking a lot. But I'm curious. Why is this affliction happening to so many? Is this coincidence universal? Or is it a co-inki-dink?

It is worldly. Widely Worldly Webly.

Vintage Clothing at its Best

2006-07-21T10:02:00.000-04:00

The humidity in this town is unbearable. I'm lucky enough to be watching my Mom's place while she is out of town. The greatest thing about her place, it has air-conditioning! To find a night's solace, my guy and I stayed over at the sitted. I planned on going directly to work from there, which means I would have to bring a change of clothes. Not a problem.

Upon leaving into the great bright day I realized I needed to wear a slip underneath my BRAND NEW VINTAGE SILK KNITTED DRESS!

My guy loved the process. I couldn't tell from my vantage point, but he loved checking out the curvature of my legs! The shape of my legs is not what I want to share with the rest of this town.

I went home and popped my Holly-Hobby petticoat underneath.

This dress is my new favourite piece recently added to my wardrobe. The amount of crochet to knit is just right for my personality! And it is in an antique cream, kind of goldie which I love. The best thing, I feel real pretty in it. Every girl needs a dress that makes them feel pretty.

Thank you Vintage-Wardrobe for having such fantastic taste! Check out what she has left at her ebay shop. That girl has a good eye, possibly two.

The Most Fun This Past Weekend

2006-07-17T12:22:00.000-04:00

The most fun I had dancing was this show. Frazy didn't have an image for them...

The Hilotrons. The best 80s electro-punk-pop you'll hear! They just gotta work on their look. Each of them sporting t-shirts with the saying Voice Recognition System -or something like that, just doesn't cut it.

This girl doesn't need to work on her look, she's got it down! Can you see the cute girl in the centre, below, with the yellow top, green hand bag.... she's standing beside the other cute girl in a green tank and turquoise skirt?

Well, check out the skirt she's wearing, the grey one with the yellow flowers. The skirt is one of my designs! I was so excited to spot it from across the crowd of dancers and loungers.

My last comment about this festival. The best blues we listened to was yesterday, Mr. Wayne Baker Brooks. No picture, but you can go to his site for more information.

My guy is the best because he doesn't get embarrassed by my choice of accessories or projects I bring along... gots to be crafting when you can! Happy Anniversary Boyfriend.

Saturday Music is Good for the Soul

2006-07-17T11:41:00.000-04:00

This past weekend, infact these last 10 long hot days have been filled with live music.

I caught this cool cat watching...

this cool cat. Junior Brown himself, with his fancy guitar/slide.

Later that evening at the main stage, Wilco. For all you tall people out there who love to go to rock concerts, this is what a little person sees:

Or, this is what kind of photo a little person with a bad camera takes:

Believe it or not, but Mr. Tweedy sported a green blazer througout the entire concert. It was like he just won some golf tournament. Despite Tweedy's fashion sense, iIt was a great show.

Using What I Have

2006-07-15T16:29:00.000-04:00

The yarn I'm using for these pretty little crocheted numbers is the yarn from my Golden Cardie.

Getting Pokie

2006-07-14T12:01:00.000-04:00

Only one today. Perhaps more tomorrow.

Thank you all for your wonderful comments on my last post. You gals Rock!

Hey, did you see WhipUp yesterday? I'm so happy, they refered to me about my T-Shirt reconstrucion posts. I've been linked!. Woo Hoo!

A Touch of Gold

2006-07-13T14:24:00.000-04:00

Building up stock for another fun craft sale next weekend. So far, this is what I have.

I've tonnes of flowers, they just need to be put onto things.

I'll post more of what I do when it is done.

I hope you like my simple crochet necklaces.

Shoppping!

2006-07-07T08:59:00.000-04:00

I've had a few sales for the Hustle Bustle pattern, so I thought I'd go shopping. Last night, while perusing my long list of blogs to read I came across this talented lady:

Counting Mermaids. She's really into fibre and a smartie pants to boot! Her yarns are delicious and her latest collection celebrates the conversations she's had with a college friend of hers, Alan P Kistler, and is "based on characters from comics and Science Fiction"! On her site she's having a contest to win 'shiny' not shiny yarn. My yarn is inspired by Teen Titans, Starfire.

Buy Counting Mermaids' yarn on Etsy and enter to win.

One of my favourites to read is Nikki-Shell. I thought I'd check out what she has in her Etsy shop. Not 2 minutes later, I purchased a lovely Crochet Hook Roll. I could really use this. My crochet hooks are EVERYWHERE!

I tell you, this woman is full of talent and charisma. She goes in with a pal to buy a Lounge/Cafe and names it the Nectar Lounge, she has an Etsy store with very pretty items in it, she is a full time mum of 2 lovely girls, she's a full time wife to a hot guy, she's one of the organizers of the amazing Refashion Wardrobe blog, she organizes postcard swaps, tea swaps and the latest is the Wall of Yarn which she will be displaying in the Lounge and then auctioning off for Medecins Sans Frontieres. I only know all this from reading her blog and participating in her events for the last year!

Anyways, the woman is a super stah. So, if your in Melbourne or surrounding area, go check out the Nectar Lounge and if not, find something pretty for yourself in her shop on Etsy!

What fun.

Viva Italia Upside-Downia!

2006-07-05T11:04:00.000-04:00

I have a new post about modifying 2 men's super large t-shirts, read it over here!