My Projects: Gray Day Scarf

I finally have photos of this open work scarf I finished about a month ago. It's perfect for these brisk days in March where it feels like it's warming up yet the chill still gets to your bones. 

I call it Gray Day Scarf.

We went for a walk along New York Harbor. The sun was trying to come out yet winter is not ready to let go.

Made from a an easy open work pattern on large needles, this scarf is a quick knit. I used two strands of bulky yarn in two shades of heather gray. 

The pattern is from the same designer as my Asphalt Infinity Cowl I finished not that long ago.

Pattern: Misti Net Scarf from Knit1LA. This pattern is free and easy! 

Yarn: Knit Picks Biggo in Dove Heather and Cobblestone Heather. One skein of each. 50% Merino and 50% Nylon. Super soft!

Needle: Size 19. 

Verdict: Love Knit1LA's patterns! Large knits that are easy, fast, and stylish. Also love the fringe! Will remake in other colors. Also great for quick last minute gifts. 

My Projects: Seed Stitch Scarf

Well, you may remember from this post that this scarf was to be a Christmas gift for my husband. I didn't finish it in time, but it is now finally done! How handsome is he modeling it? 

It's pretty basic but for some reason, knitting scarves take me forever. I am much faster at crochet. For this scarf, cast on 32 stitches and knit, purl, knit purl until you reach your desired length. The texture is really wonderful!

I used Cascade Ecological which comes in large skeins of 478 yards! When the ball was wound I couldn't believe how big it turned out. I used every bit of it. No wonder this scarf took forever. It finished over 6 feet long!

Here is a detail of the seed stitch as posted previously. You can view more details on my ravelry page. This scarf is super warm and my husband loves it!  

My Projects: Knitted Gifts!

The Holidays are coming! Do you make your gifts or do you join in the shopping frenzy?

I like to do a little of both, especially if that means I can practice my knitting! 

This is a simple one but I'm enjoying it.  I'm knitting a seed stitch scarf for my husband. It's something that would take a day for an experienced knitter. For me, I'm happy to get a couple of rows done after working a long day before my eyes get too sleepy. I'm hoping to have this done and a hat (ambitious!) in time for Christmas. I will keep you posted! The yarn is Cascade Ecological and it's a dream to knit! My husband loves that it's un-dyed and natural.  See more info on my Ravelry page. 

This cutie knitted up real quick and is for a dear friend of mine. She's about to give birth any day now!! I call this the Pea Pod U-Cord Hat and it's super newborn size so I've got to get it to her quick! These hats are fun to make and adorable. You may remember these similar versions I made earlier this year. I used Bernat's Cottontots Solid yarn and it's soft, perfect for a baby. For more yarn and pattern info check my Ravelry page.

What are working on? Will you get your gift projects done in time? 

My Projects: Finished Knit and Crochet Accessories

I finished a bunch of knitting and crochet projects recently all at once. Unlike with sewing, when it comes to knitting and crochet, I like to work on multiple projects at once. Here are some of my finished projects!

Buttercup yellow crocheted fingerless gloves with bow. I've made a bunch of these with contrast bow and tipping. This is the first pair I've made in a solid. What do you think? What other colors would you like? These are available in my Etsy shop, The Sparkling Cocktail for $35. 

Above and below are new two-tone colors! I love this color combination, it's soft, girly, and has a vintage feel to it. These are also available in my Etsy shop, The Sparkling Cocktail for $38. Pink with Ivory and Ivory with Pink. 

All of the gloves above are made with the softest Pima cotton yarn, which makes them wearable year round. Depending where you live, of course! For more yarn information and a link to the free pattern- should you want to make your own- visit me at Ravelry or Craftsy.

This is the Seed Stitch Cambridge Scarf I have been working on and it's finally done! This project I am really excited about and it's not for sale, but rather for myself! This is from the Knit Lab class I am taking at Craftsy. It's a fabulous way to practice various knitting stitches, the seed stitch, a 2x2, and a 4x4 basket weave, all in one project. At the end you have a beautiful scarf. This knitting class has already improved my knitting skills and I haven't even finished it yet. The best part is it doesn't expire, so I have a video reference when ever I need it! 

You may have read my review on the Craftsy Knit Lab class here and my progress on this project here. 

A close-up. I hope you can get a sense of the different stitches! 

Now I have to decide what to knit and crochet next. I have so many projects on my list, I don't know where to start! I am also looking forward to Craftsy's Mystery Knit-Along for July! Have you ordered yours? I can't wait to find out what we will be making!! I will keep you posted and would love your company. More info here if you want to join, but do hurry as you will need to allow shipping time for your yarn! 

What are you knitting up these days? Do you work on yarn projects in the Summer? 

My Projects: Update and Upcoming

You know how it is, the weather warms up and the sewing and knitting projects cool down. I am still working on a few projects but I definitely feel like I have slowed down. Here's an update, since it's been so long, as well as a few projects on my list!

Do you remember the Seed Stitch Cambridge scarf I started knitting a while back? I'm still working on it, but hope to have it done real soon! It's beautiful in this blonde tweed! 

I made these wall hangings from an old vintage crochet cutter and used embroidery hoops as frames. They are a gift but I love them on my exposed brick wall. 

I really want to get back into sewing. These are the three patterns I want to use this summer for my own wardrobe. Several peasant blouses are needed, the halter dress I want to make out of gingham, and the wrap dress, well don't judge, but I still haven't started my Lana Turner dress. So please! Encourage me to get back into a regular sewing habit! 

I have also purchased the Mystery Knit-Along for July from Craftsy! I am so excited. As I mentioned my scarf is nearly done and I wasn't sure what to start next so this is perfect timing. The pattern is also from Stefanie Japel, who teaches the Knit Lab course I took!  It is currently on sale for $14.99 and that includes the yarn, pattern, and workshop materials! Who doesn't love a good mystery? I would love it if you would join me. Follow the My Projects series here to see my updates and find out what it is or let's knit this together! Click here to purchase it before it gets too late! 

What are your project plans for the summer? Have you slowed down, or are you still going strong? I would love to hear what you have been working on! 

My Projects: New Scarves; New Stitches!

You may remember I started taking the Knit Lab class on Craftsy not that long ago.  I have been learning a lot and have one finished project along with a WIP. Here's a look at what I've been working on and learning! 

The first project in this class is the Lacy Keyhole Scarf. This is my first knitting lace project and I couldn't be happier! 

A great project to practice knit/purl, create lace, and a keyhole. Plus you get this adorable scarf! I used Knit Picks Swish Worsted in black. This was an easy scarf to make. 

This is the second project in the course. It is called the Seed Stitch Cambridge scarf. I am using Knit Picks City Tweed HW in Snowshoe. I love this yarn! 

The scarf starts with rows of seed stitch, then a 2x2 basket, followed by a 4x4 basket stitch. It then repeats which is the point I am at now. This will make a wonderfully textured scarf! 

Read more about the Craftsy course here.  If you are a member of Craftsy, come say hello. My profile is here. 

What projects are you currently working on? 

My Projects: Let the Knitting (and crochet) Begin!

 Look at my new stash of yarn!! The air has turned crisp and I have a lot of catching up to do on all my knitting and crochet projects. Lately, this is all I have felt like doing. 

 I started this easy ribbed scarf as a way to switch my mind from crochet to knitting. I did a lot of crochet over the summer and then when I want to switch to knitting, I think I have forgotten how. This is a great warm up! I am calling it the Morning Glory Scarf as that is the name of this wonderful purple tweed. This is also a great pattern to do when I am tired and I don't want to follow a pattern. 

Do you knit and crochet? Or do you prefer just one or the other? 

After warming up by starting the scarf, I then started the Roar Hat. This is a gift for my nephew and the first time I have knitted on circular needles. I'm still a novice so who knows how long this will take me but I would like to get 2 done for Christmas presents. Wish me luck! 

These are a finished project from the summer that I don't think I shared with you. These are crocheted fingerless gloves and I love making these. After I get proper photos, they will be listed for sale in my Etsy shop! Stay tuned! 

My Projects: Striped Scarf Finished

You may remember when I started this striped Merino wool scarf for my sweet husband earlier this year. I finally finished it!  Look how adorable he is in it.

It didn't come out as great as I would like, but he loves it anyway! I'm still in the learning/beginning phase. One of my resolutions for the new year is to dedicate more time to my projects so I can advance and build up speed. This took me way to long. But here it is, and I'm happy! 

For more info on the yarn and pattern used, visit my Ravelry page. 

Mid-Week Inspiration: Leopard Scarf

Kate Winslet. Gorgeous! 

Image via fashiongonerogue.com

My Projects: Striped Scarf

I'm knitting this one for my Husband. Since recovering from my hand injury I've done some crochet but this is my first knitting project. It came back like riding a bike.

For more info on yarns, pattern, and other specs please visit my Ravelry page.