ONWARD

JOURNEY, the latest collaboration between the Jane Richmond and Shannon Cook, was released for pre-order HERE. It is an inspiring collection of classic but modern pieces and I can't wait to delve into it!
I was privileged to be a part of the test-knitting process. I knit the "Onward" shawl.

It's the largest shawl I've knit and for me is as useful as a cardigan. I chose a blue that has turned out to be fairly neutral and works with many colors. 

I like to wear it (giant) kerchief style.

The shawl is reversible and patterned throughout, which makes for an engaging and fun knit.
 

 

I knit the shawl using 3 skeins of Spud & Chloe "Sweater" yarn. 

It gave great stitch definition and was easy on the hands for a wool-cotton blend. 

No pilling issues and I've been wearing the heck out of it!

All in all it was a pleasure and an honor to be a part of this "journey". 

Best of luck to shannon and jane!

Saturday Sewing

Summer is finally here, and I finally had time to reunite with my Janome...

I had to literally dust her off poor thing.

Using Shannon's nifty FREE reversible project bag tutorial I finally made myself a project bag.

The pattern is so clearly written and was a great way to get my sewing legs back.

I used the same fabric for the whole bag, but I don't think it diminished the cuteness factor at all!

This random calico print reminds me of Little House on the Prairie.

Cute corners to help the bag stand up...

pinning, and sewing. I used to be lazy about this but the pinning is essential for a cleaner look.

This bag is such a great size, perfect for socks or bigger WIPs.

I used bias tape instead of cording. Need to find something a bit sturdier but this will do for now.

I'm so glad I dove back in!

Happy Weekend, y'all.

Elfe

I finished  my top for the TTTKAL hosted by luvinthemommyhood.

The pattern is Elfe designed by Astrid Schramm. 

This is the first sweater I've made using fingering weight wool, and it really is such a treat to wear! Very drapey and light, but still warm. 

The delicious yarns I used:

Dream In Color Smooshy with Cashmere in Aqua Jet

Sweet Georgia Tough Love Sock in Boysenberry

It's a little big in the arms, but otherwise I love the looser fit of it. And the colors can't be beat.

Like Ellie's matching outfit?

This KAL was super lively and full of amazing projects. Great job ladies! Check out some of the awesome tops in the "starrring you" post on luvinthemommyhood later today!

happy

Why am I super happy today? Oh, well it may be because I had this super cute hat pattern named after ME! How awesome is that? 

Head over to luvinthemommyhood for the deets!

I also finally decided on my project for the Downton Abbey KAL hosted by luvinthemommyhood.

Little Colonnade Shawl by Stephen West

Happy Monday everyone!

Rainbow Cowl

Before I jump into holiday knitting...I had to make this cowl.

the Stasia Cowl, pattern by luvinthemommyhood

A simple pattern with a twist

Yarn: Noro Kureyon Worsted

Can't beat the colors, and with size 13 needles the fabric is squishy and so warm.

I had a lot of fun knitting this!

It was my reward for finishing my Aidez sleeves and casting on the body. hee hee.

FO Wednesday

Julissa is off the needles! I chose this project because I wanted to push myself a little (as well as recover ASAP from a froggy debacle). The cables and lace pattern is very well written but definitely not "potato-chip knitting". I'm so glad I did because the end result is, well, pretty darn awesome.  

I take a lot of these "smiling on the inside" photos. Taking photos of yourself is hard! meh.

I adjusted the sleeve length and bottom ribbing to accommodate my shorter frame.

I used magic loop for the sleeves. Fell in love with my Knitpicks nickel-plated babies again.

The Malabrigo is so cushy soft and after blocking (and even a whole lot of petting by me and the girls). I didn't notice any pilling at all.  

I could live in this sweater! Too bad I live in a season-less city now! I'm sure I'll find some occasion to wear it in the dead of winter here...without a jacket. haha. 

Hello Kitty! 

Can you tell I have girls? 

Although I can tell you I know of at least 2 very cool little boys who think Hello Kitty is the "cat's pajamas". Too much? I though so too.

Happy Wednesday everyone! Don't forget to check out the linky party for this KAL at luvinthemommyhood. 

Lady Hannah

A cowl inspired by my obsession, Downton Abbey? Yes Please.

The Downton Cowl, 

pattern by the multi-talented Shannon of luvinthemommyhood

The yarn is the sproingy, hand-dyed goodness of Sweet Fiber Cashmerino Sport. I had a skein left over from the Rustic Shawl  which I ended up giving away. It was time to make something happen with this yarn - perfect match in my opinion!

The lace pattern is simple and I was able to memorize it by the second repeat. It's good and bad that I've reached a stage in my knitting life that I can recover mistakes (the bad being that I still make mistakes, haha).

I love how the lace is a sharp design but the fabric came out squooshy and lovely. 

Reminds me of  Lady Mary...a tough cookie with a heart of gold.

I named it Lady Hannah, though, because it's MINE all mine. 

I'm happy to report the girls are doing well.

 Sunbathing

Having tea parties on the playground.

and just being darn cute in general.

Happy Friday everyone!

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!