Marianella

Sometimes a knitting project, like many things in life, starts out with the best intentions. It even looks like smooth sailing and clear skies ahead. But then you realize, you made the wrong size. You keep knitting, horribly in denial, until you finally realize you need to move on. Square your shoulders, frog away, cry a little, move on.

It helps when you finally find a new life for the yarn, in this case the original project was Oatmeal Pullover...the pattern is great, but the yarn wasn't quite right for it. 

The yarn is Ella Rae Latte in colorway Majestic Jade, held double. Isn't it lovely?

The pattern: Jane Richmond's Marian

Noelle had to jump in. My little ham.

The crazy bag lady toddler? Also mine. 

She sure loves the Marian, refused to take it off once she got her paws on it. 

Yarn Over

As much as I love working on my Classic Raglan pullover, I needed a break between working on sleeve one and sleeve two. Sleeves present the same problem as mittens...you're so relieved to finish one and then you realize ugh...there's another one.

The Drop Stitch Cowl is the perfect instant gratification project. It is a FREE pattern by Abi Connors of  the awesome blog Spiderwoman Knits and Red Comb Vintage on Etsy. Check out her adventures!

project page for Lemongrass Drop Stitchery

This is one of those great patterns where the result belies the amount of effort needed to create it. It makes super bulky yarn, which is usually so, well, bulky feeling, feel swooshy and even elegant. LOVE. it. 

On my way...

Check out my new lovely:

 Commuter Cowl pattern by luvinthemommyhood!

In keeping with the commuting theme I used cotton shirting for this cowl that reminded me of a train conductor uniform. I can't wait to experiment with more fabrics, definitely some brights. I also added an extra knot, because I like my cowls a little closer to my neck. 

While I was sewing this I thought of the countless hours I spent on the train, most recently when I was pregnant with Noelle and commuting to school and work in the city. As long (and painful, esp. as my due date came closer) as those hours were, I actually treasured that time to myself and my little bean, listening to my favorite music. I swear she got her groovy rhythm from the hours-long jam sessions on the train!

If you want to make one for yourself, here is the listing from Shannon's brand new Etsy shop. It's what all the Cool Moms are wearing for Spring!

Persimmon Blossom

When I saw the orange and turquoise Fleur d' Orange dress by Katy of the blog No Big Dill that was inspired by The Sartorialist I thought it was a match made in heaven. Katy's blog is not only a great read because of the beautiful sewing and crafts, but also because of the fierce love for her family that is reflected in her words.

I was inspired in turn to make something in orange and blue...this is the result:

Persimmon Blossom now available in the Shop

The cotton yarn colors are persimmon and seaspray.

The butterfly jumper is a simple pattern from One Yard Wonders which was the first sewing book I ever bought. The vintage buttons are non-functional and I crossed the straps in the back to accommodate Noelle's body. I just love the whimsy of the whole look, and my little boogie monster certainly got into this photo session as you can see!