May 2009 Archives

It's official.  I'm no longer a sock virgin.  In the last eight or so years since I started to knit, I was never convinced to give socks a go.  But Lady Socks, how you inspire!  I'm a convert, currently working on my second pair as for a gift (yes, socks have opened up a whole new realm of gift knitting), with at least four pairs in the immediate queue.  I say bring on the small, portable projects!   

Toe-up and short-rowed
I know I've only completed one pair at this point, but I simply can't see why people make such a fuss over toe-up socks.  Why would you bother making them any other way?  The magic cast-on is so simple, makes a nice, seamless toe, and you can try your socks on as you go (added bonus of semi-immediate gratification).  On the same note, why do anything but a short-row heel?  Now, I am definitely assuming that there are appropriate situations for employing different heel techniques or knitting top-down (I hope to be enlightened when I read Wendy Johnson's Socks from the Toe Up), but from what I've heard many knitters are just scared of trying these different techniques.  

Okay, we've already established that I'm an inconsistent blogger.  I do so want to be better, but it's very difficult, after a full day sitting in front of the computer doing things I don't want to do, to then return home and write about the fun stuff.  We'll say that my mid-year resolution is to improve on this note.  I've heard that it really takes weekly posting at a minimum to blog, and I'm just not there yet.  My Examiner.com responsibilities seem to trump those of The Drowsy Knitter and my even-more-neglected ReaderReader.  But, I started each of these with a mission, so attention they will get!

I'm inspired by the anticipation of yet another big order from WEBS/Yarn.com.  The Ladies and I have banded together once again to meet the $120 minimum that earns the 25% discount.  Unfortunately (fortunately?) we went way beyond the minimum.  My anticipated projects from said box of glory:

•  Fiddlehead Mittens by helloyarn.  I've been eyeing these for a while and have them planned in Rowan Scottish Tweed, with RYC Silk Wool DK for the lining.
• Mom and Dad socks.  I can't tell from the order history what I even bought, but I'm sure it's smashing.  Some his and hers socks are sure to brighten their holiday (yes, I'm starting now).
• Socks for me!  Pattern TBD.  I loved knitting with the Dream in Color yarn so much that I'm going to give their sock yarn, Smooshy, a try. 

Not overly ambitious, I think.  I'm still working on my Diminishing Rib Cardigan, but as it's beyond portable size it's taking a breather.  The arms are all that I have left at this point.  Of course, there's no rush now that it's practically summer!