: : : o l g a j a z z y : : :

:: More or Less ::

2012-01-25T10:18:00.000-05:00

"More or Less" series by Nanna van Blaaderen

SOURCE

:: winners ::

2012-01-24T22:29:00.001-05:00

I hope all have been well and ushered the New Year of 2012 happily and properly insulated with your favorite knits. New Year here started very eventful in every sense - from a shake up earthquake on January 1st (we are well!) to exciting releases of collections and designs. I am excited to talk about them and stick to my resolution of being a better blogger.

But first I need to attend to important piece of business, the 3 winners of BSA patterns giveaway are:

Michelle
KT
Nerdy Knitter

CONGRATULATIONS!!! Each of you is getting a set of my 3 new patterns published by Blue Sky Alpacas. And thank you everyone for participating, there are more giveaways planned this year, so don't despair, keep knitting and I will make sure you have more patterns to knit from.
Meanwhile, aforementioned ladies if you could please contact me via email listed on my blog with your address information.

So to start with one thing at a time, while we are talking about Blue Sky Alpacas, the new catalog of theirs has been released in the first week of January, that included my new design with a little of a namesake, called Jazzy Cardigan. In reality it's more of a cardicoat. Made in scrumptious, air light, yet very warm Techno.

The choice of this cable pattern was not accidental, my love for anything geometric and this cable conveys the balance between organic flow of a cable yet with rather geometric shapes mixed in between.

Although looking complex, cable-making becomes intuitive throughout the process when you tend to "read" your fabric below your needles. The flowing cable bands seem to "prompt" you on the next step. The cardigan is worked in pieces, but with button bands incorporated with the fronts. Seams give enough structure and stability to the loft of the yarn while cables reflect the 3D texture of the coat. I have chosen to go with "afterthought" pockets, since they can be done as an option, but personally are very comfy to hide your hands in when it's chilly outside and you don't have your gloves/mitts. I am really keen on modern styling that BSA have chosen for this cardigan, but I can also see it styled with a pencil skirt for a more dressy look.

On Ravelry

On Blue Sky Alpacas

Happy Knitting!

Thakoon Pre-Fall 2012

2011-12-17T07:56:00.000-05:00

photos www.style.com

:: holiday giveaway ::

2011-12-08T04:39:00.007-05:00

Less blogging, more knitting these days. These are not particularly words to go by, but not so much of personal knitting.
Around this time last year I have been working with Blue Sky Alpacas yarn company on creating new designs for this fall/winter season.
Notice the gorgeous models that are are modeling my knitwear designs, great styles and photography too! I feel really lucky to be able to work with this company and their luxurious line of yarns.
As a result you can see 3 various garment designs using Suri Merino, Sportweight Alpaca, Brushed Suri and Techno...

Pleated Jacket
View on Ravelry

While constructing this design, I really wanted to make it with little seaming as possible while trying to incorporate this wide box pleats collar. I have succeeded in doing so, this jacket is worked top down and you only have 2 small seams to complete once you are finished knitting. Classic feminine design with modern detailing on the collar.

Fitted Lace Pullover
View on Ravelry

In wintertime it is great to have one of those fitted thermal go-to sweaters that you want to wear around all the time and depending on your color choice you can have one transition from casual to evening looks. I have chosen to use 100% alpaca yarn but the idea of wanting to balance out the heat factor, since alpaca is 30% warmer than wool, I have chosen to go with this eyelet lace pattern and evenly distribute it throughout the pullover. It creates sort of "vents" for your skin. Finished with ultimately luxurious and soft Brushed Suri collar caressing the neckline. So your choice of favorite denims, favorite slacks or a full skirt!

Aprés Vest
View on Ravelry

I was among the group of few designers who got to test this new yarn and create initial designs from BSA Techno. This yarn features amazing construction on its own - a mesh tube that has alpaca fibers blown into it, which makes this yarn air-light and luscious, as good as luxury comes! For example, if you make a cabled coat in it, it would weigh much less, it is not spun but it reminds me of woolen spun yarns, that are lofty and soft and light! The vest I have designed using Techno is suppposed to mimic one of those down type vest you wear in cold season either to layer or to throw on for a car ride. Despite being so lofty, it is very warm as it majorly consists of alpaca fibers.
And yes this is beautiful Raina from American Next Top Model modeling the vest! (She recently appeared in Bon Iver music video! Love that band!)

So as a gratitude to all my supporters and in lieu of upcoming holidays I am giving away 3 sets of patterns, each set contains a printed copy of each the designs above.
Rules are simple, leave a comment on this post by Tuesday, December 13th, 1:00AM EST
I will randomly choose 3 winners and announce them later on the blog.
For all participants, please leave a valid email address or link to your valid blog, so I can contact you later.

Good Luck To Everyone and Happy Knitting!!

:: manly knits ::

2011-12-08T02:09:00.000-05:00

via

:: knits and pelts ::

2011-11-17T13:31:00.039-05:00

Have you ever as a crafty person clung to fabric leftovers for years in hopes that one day you'd have just the right project to use it for? I know I have... and as much as many of your would like deny that once you deal with fabric or string or yarn.. it's hard to get rid of leftovers in general! Your mind doesn't always come up with ideas that very minute, but in some time you hope it does! This same route I've been going ever since I've discovered this faux fur! Honestly, it's the best faux fur made in the world, so I am sure you can see my point about holding on my scraps...

I have had this idea for a while, but as usual timing and whole slew of things in the way... Finally, I made it! The hardest part was picking out the color of the yarn that would match my faux fur color close enough, but yet not distract with its texture or color variation.

Faux fur produced by Tissavel is one of the best in the market, Made in France, feels and looks (most animal prints at least) like real fur. So real, in fact, one day in D.C. I was walking to work from a metro station and startled by some (PETA?) guy screaming: "Do you know what your coat is made of?!!!" To which he heard my response: "Yes, cotton and viscose!" He was stunned and I walked away winning! :) So my point is that this faux fur even with undercoat of different shade looks very real. I know if one touches it - all you'll want is to pet it all day!

I've had some Tissavel leftover pieces from my mom's work for a while now. I know even some friends of mine got bits of it here and there as well, it's really great!

But if you are not a fan of sourcing out a pieces of faux fur you like or fuss over sewing at all, you can go knitting route all the way. And you can do that using two methods:

First, you can find the yarn like Berroco Nanuk or other fluffy yarn that would make a nice cushy pelt for the center of your scarf.

OR

You can knit ANY yarn to create center rectangle using Loop Stitch technique. I suggest using some yarn with a great content of alpaca or suri, so it's even fluffier. If you wish you can even cut those loops, so it's more fur looking... Kind of like this Stella McCartney fur vest.

Fur substitute rectangle should be 12" by 14" if knit flat, when folded and seamed into a tube it should measure 6" by 14".

Now for the ends:
I've used Pear Tree 4-ply Merino yarn, which is 100% Australian merino. It's more of a DK weight and I used US 6 (4mm) needle to go with it for my knit 2, purl 2 ribbing pattern.
My gauge is 7.5 sts per 1" over Ribbing pattern.
You can choose a different stitch pattern for knit part of the scarf as long as you get the necessary dimensions.
Scarf width should measure 6" in washed and blocked form. I suggest to make a little swatch to calculate correct number of stitches to cast on for your yarn choice and needle size.

Cast on 46 sts.
Row 1: *K2, p2*, k2.
Row 2: *P2, k2*, p2.

Repeat rows 1-2 till it measures 35" from CO edge. BO all stitches in pattern. Then make a second scarf end identically. Weave in all ends, soak and block your knit scarf ends to measurements.

For faux fur insert cut 12" by 14" rectangle plus 3/4" seam allowances.

Fold the faux fur rectangle with public side facing inside, then pin first scarf end to the right edge in place between 2 folded ends of the fabric. Stitch by hand to hold in proper place, making sure that sides of the scarf do not bleed over the marks where the knit insert has to be stitched.

Take second knit scarf end and repeat as for the first scarf end only pinning it on the other side of the faux fur rectangle.
Once knit scarf ends are placed properly, use sewing machine to stitch the scarf ends securely in place. You can go over it several times if you'd like.

Then shift both ends of the knit ends to one corner. Pin, then hand stitch to hold in place along the side. Machine sew along the edge to close the side of the rectangle as much as possible with ends still sticking out. Trim excess selvedge fabric.

Carefully pull on the knit scarf ends and turn faux fur rectangle inside out. You'll have two scarf ends attached to a fur rectangle. Last piece of business is closing that small opening. Using sewing needle and matching sewing thread hand stitch it closed by inverting the selvedges inside along the lines and sewing it shut in a manner of small Mattress stitches.

Voila!!

Now you can get one yourself as well or there is still time for holiday gifts!!
Happy Crafting!!!

:: indian summer ::

2011-10-28T04:28:00.002-05:00

Sunset over Mt. Fuji viewed from Inomuragasaki Beach.

All past week we have been roasting here in Japan. Indian summer full on and living in a place that faces South turned my regular dwelling into a sauna of sorts, but I have been enjoying it nevertheless. Dry autumn days, spider colonies taking over many trees, orange hue of Halloween garb everywhere, faint scent of burning fireplace - all of it in premonition of cold weather taking over soon, but oh so pleasant.. To stop routine of the day with a cup of hot chocolate, couple chapters of a new book, think and reflect a little.

To be happy of the small moments and joys. Be appreciative of the present. Whether a big project coming to its final stages and feeling of accomplishment that relaxes and encourages to take on new adventures. Or just several hours of the day spent in a company of friends who understand your humanity.

The sky has been coming up with most bizarre and breathtaking patterns over colors at sunset.

And then back to the grind... so many things to knit..

a heap of sweaters

2011-10-23T02:00:00.001-05:00

via FashionGoneRogue

:: Hado for your head ::

2011-10-19T04:52:00.003-05:00

How did October happen already? Summer.. is if it never happened, the busiest time for knitwear designers, getting all delicious knits ready for Fall/Winter collections. But I want to still document and share my year's work.

All the way back in early Spring I have been asked by Andie of Renaissance Hand-dyed Yarns to consider creating a design using her naturally dyed yarns. That was what draw me at first, but who can pass up an opportunity working with Blue-faced Leicester wool, that is one of the softest and luxurious things in this world! While swatching and thinking of the possibilities I have decided to settle on this lovely color combination pack to create a slouch hat. Not just your regular slouch, cool enough to show off the colorwork and with some lace thrown into it..

It almost has a Missoni feel to it, but what is great - one can easily choose to customize it. I have worked it using 4 colors in this pack, but one can easily choose to make it a solid version or even transitional colors to show off "ombre" effect.

Hado Slouch

Hado 波動 (jap.) - wave motion, surge.
Colorful reflections on water surface and gentle breeze waves are recreated in this slouchy hat through intuitive lace pattern and combination of stripes to brighten up a chilly day and keep warm.
Fingering weight
24 stitches and 56 rows = 4 inches in 3 by 3 rib on smaller needle
400 yards (366 m)

$6.00

This design has great potential for leftover fingering yarn, another stash-busting project or a gift that can be loved and well-appreciated. Taking a page from recent madness over Missoni line in Target, you can easily make some for yourself if you are a fan or have missed that event. I am a known "offender" in loving chevrons, Missoni-styles, so you can also see my other designs like Serapo Hat and Palisel Hat.
Now I will be back with more once I finish some pattern writing for new designs ;)

:: meow ::

2011-08-08T01:24:00.003-05:00

Carine Roitfeld dresses up Freja Beha Erichsen for Chanel AW 2011-2012 ad campaign..
I know some cannot think about wool yet, but the toasty helmet/balaclava is quite intriguing! I love the quilted obi/haramaki like belt and the matching gloves too!

:: summer of wool ::

2011-08-07T09:50:00.008-05:00

My poor poor blog has to suffer again from the content not being updated on time, but I must assure you that for any professional in a knitwear industry summer is the busiest time to be producing all those fabulous knit for Fall and Winter season. So when first digits of August hit, you are all overwhelmed with abundance of patterns to ponder over and choose and how to plan your knitting over the next couple months! I promise I have been trying to keep new patterns coming so you don't have to wait forever till the ones I'm working on at moment are published. Although, I had been trying to catch up as I am already buried in exciting projects for next Spring.. that would be 2012. That is right, Summer is not even over but I have full speed production for the next warm season..

Originally, I planned to devote each design a separate blog post and I hope to continue doing so withing next couple weeks. (Once this stack of patterns is being written and graded!)
But what I can show you at the moment are the designs I will be talking about. Some have been published already several months ago, but I am yet to tell their origin and story. For now.. here is something to look forward to!

:: dot dot dot ::

2011-06-26T09:38:00.013-05:00

Trying to remember now what is that moved me to design this... Winters in Japan are pretty mild, just cold, dry and sometimes windy and rainy, not much snow where we reside. Mix of grey skies during the day and if we are lucky enough - a pretty sunset over the mountains. So being tired from dull greyness after a long winter, eye is simply begging for some color.. In anticipation for first Spring colors I became impatient and in February while perusing fresh off the runway Fall/Winter 2011-2012 runway collections I had POLKA DOTS stuck in my mind! I have purchased this souvenir yarn from Purl Soho in New York years ago while on a quick trip with Vanessa.

Mizutama (jap.) means exactly that - polka dots.
My Mizutama shawl used a perfect bright, almost acid yellow yarn. Yellow and grey combination has been one of the longest color obsessions I've had, so I thought the grey of the skies would go so well together.

The design is a triangular shawl, but in a pattern I give 2 choices for knitter to make it. You can either start from the tip and increase it, so naturally you would get more and more stitches with each row. While knitting it that way, it is easier to customize and make the shawl even bigger/wider wingspan.
The other option in the pattern is to start with the biggest number of stitches and continue working it down towards the tip of the shawl. So whichever strikes your fancy - you can do it all!

Ravel It!
Yarn: Koigu KPM 2.5 skeins or 470 yds of any other fingering weight yarn
Needle: US 6 (4 mm)

$7.00

On a nice spring day when disaster struck Japan, I was actually getting dressed to go to a local park to take photos of my new designs, Mizutama was among them, I stood in the bathroom doing my hair while doors and everything started violently shaking..
I have tried to put my stress to work, still thinking of the situation, but trying to do something that would bring some feeling of normalcy to our everyday life... This pattern was published back in March.

We did go to that park later in the day to find a gorgeous Mimosa tree in full bloom with millions of yellow globes that are were also speaking polka dots to me...

:: movement ::

2011-06-12T08:05:00.006-05:00

I have been back to Japan for a month now and it has been so incredibly filled with events. Work to catch up on, visiting places around Japan, trying to appreciate every single day I get to spend here. We went to Kakegawa Castle and visited 7 waterfalls in Shizuoka Prefecture. Have also visited heart of Edo period in Japan which is in Kawagoe and got to see where one of the most popular shoguns was born and resided. Life seems moving forward, Japanese are so resilient and signs of disaster are almost not there, they certainly appreciate all the business and nothing makes them happier than seeing tourists and people visiting their historical places. So we try to show our support as much as possible.

As rainy season sets in, I try to find some comfortable clothing to get through it. And my rainboots... I am so happy I've invested in them last year because I literally live in them.. Last Saturday we set on our way to Hakone and Lake Ashi in the mountains. When we got there, weather looked like a hurricane and besides treacherous winding roads you could barely see anything, complete white out. And today it's raining again...

Paper crane garlands in Buddha Museum

This week was also another exciting development. I have bought a knitting machine, a Japanese one and I love it! My Australian knitterly friends have been at it recently A LOT!
With a help of my Japanese friend who helped me sort out through some Japanese Yahoo auctions, I have bought a brand new, as in very very old, but in original packaging and never been used Brother machine for almost nothing! They stopped production of Brother machines in 2000. I looked on eBay, but no one would ship them to me. I have always wanted one, I was afraid that it would eat into my hand knitting time, but fear not. It's solely for making some fine knit clothing. The kind that takes forever to knit on tiniest needles (not like I haven't already done that before). Whole concept of machine knitting is more technical and I find hand-knitting still more methodical and appealing to me. But it certainly triggered more ideas for designs. Funny thing how inspiration works.

General life of a crafter consists of dipping into other kinds of it as well. I have been really into making some funky and simple jewelry. I am sure many of your have already heard of Pinterest and it is just an amazing source for pinning all things that interest you... instead of saving all those images on your computer. You get to organize and remember them!

2 weeks ago I went to Yuzawaya, got a box of paper clips and electrical tape. $4 dollar necklace. Yes, please!

:: Ensō Vest ::

2011-06-04T02:32:00.016-05:00

So last year around Fall time I had been mulling over an idea of making a fun new vest, but being generally not a vest person, I wanted to stick to things that I am most passionate about - versatility, something geometrical, one-of-a-kind and yet very wearable. I have been playing with basic geometric forms and pondering ideas, very much inspired by Issey Miyake and their new line of 132.5. Where all the clothing can be worn but creased at the lines that collapses/folds flat into a geometric shape... I have spoken to Cirilia who worked at Berroco at that time and she along with Norah Gaughan were very kind to make this design into reality! Thank you very much, ladies!!!

I have taken two circles and "Ensō" in translation from Japanese means a circle, it is also a very sacred symbol in their culture as it has many meanings and functions.

I have imagined a puffy vest, almost like one of those down type that you would put on over your clothes in the winter for a ride in a car or a chilly walk in the evening to keep extra warm. To make the puffy look I have decided to go with a welted stitch pattern over a solid color yarn, because it gives volume and depth and a pretty stitch pattern. I have worked out a way for this vest to be reversible without actually making 4 circles and seaming them. Ensō Vest is worked flat using short-rows and when you are done, you simply graph the live stitches together and voila - it's already folded at the outer edge and you have doubled fabric!

You even have opening all around the armholes if you wish to stuff it with fiber fill to make it more voluminous. So two identical circles, joint at the part of an outer fold to create a back seam. What's more fun is that knit fabric is so elastic it allows you various ways of styling this vest of even fold it some more and turn it in this oversized scarf.

I know timing may seem odd talking about this design today, but I have published this pattern back in January and due my hectic schedule I wasn't able to tell you about it's little story! And I'm really proud of this design. I know Winter has come to our knitter friends down under and it's never too late to start knitting for the colder season, because afterall that is the time when we need and appreciate our warm knits most.

Some specs

Yarn: Berroco Peruvia (100% wool from Peru), in Vino Tinto colorway 7153;

680 - 1240 yards (622 - 1134 m)

Needle: US 8 - 5 mm

Sizes available:
To fit bust sizes 31.5, 33, 34.5, 36, 37.5, 39, 40.5, 42, 43.5"

Ravel It!

$ 7.00

:: inching along ::

2011-05-08T00:40:00.004-05:00

If someone told me in the past 2 months that I would have to make SO MANY decisions and follow up and then change them in order to adapt to a situation, I'd say they were talking about someone else's life. Firstly, thank you to everyone for your immense support!!!

For the past month and a half I have been displaced from Japan as in "voluntarily departed" for the time being till the situation got stable. Such a funny work to think of right now.. stable, it would take years to see the damage from what happened. I have been blessed enough with many generous and kind friends who offered me shelter stateside. Not to speak of all my knitterly friends online who were "with" me till the moment I left. I can't complain that I spent my nomadic "vacation" in Los Angeles, city I once lived long long time ago. I tried concentrating on the positive in every single little bit of the day - sunny weather, fact that I was in good health, delicious and missed foods, swam in a pool, even saw Taylor Swift shopping in Anthropologie, but not without that buzzing noise in the back of my head "what's next, when can I go back home to Japan?" The worry and stress got to me eventually and I have been down with a nasty cold for 2 weeks, what else can top this cake... BUT (trying to look and stay all positive)..

It was so nice catching up with fashion and knitwear designer friends and finally meeting them in person, Wendy of Knit and Tonic fame with her wonderful family who extended their kindness to me. Many smiles and laughter moments shared while we visited historical Farmer's marker and the Grove and food food food.. I must say, I haven't grown that fond of most Japanese food as huge amount of it contains rice or noodles of some kind and it's always hard to find flavors palatable to a Westerner. Oh I am sure you wonder if there was yarn involved.. Even better - yarn and button store in a very close proximity to each other!

I got to meet mia meraviglioso amica italiana Francesca of fluffbuff and have a delicious lunch at a mozzarella bar in Westfield mall, I believe I haven't eaten mozzarella and prosciutto crudo that good since I lived in Italy. I really wish by the time I felt better I could do more and see more friends, but by some strike of luck, my fashion designer friend took me to Santa Monica one afternoon and we dropped by Wildfiber store unplanned and it was my luck to have met Grace, Terri and Natasha and their team who hosted Ori Ami Knits trunk show and book signing prior to my going back home.

Now I am back in Japan, with new digits in my year count, life seems restoring and sad to have missed "hanami" and so much to do. In fact I haven't told you stories of 3 new designs that I have already published but all about them in upcoming week.

I gave myself a promise to blog more this year (yeah, right!) as my New Year's resolution, only to get slammed in January with all these projects, this exciting work that I can't talk about yet or show you my living room filled up with yarn.. where cat and husband can be spotted occasionally.

:: To help Japan ::

2011-03-14T00:55:00.006-05:00

I am pretty sure all of you have been glued to the TV's and watching the heartbreak of Japanese nation and the scale of this tragedy is just impossible to grasp. The military base I live on has organized taking and transporting donations to the affected areas. Blankets, non-perishable food, water, basic medical aid. As I am already here and just donating money didn't feel enough of what I could do.

So from March 14 for the next 2 weeks - 85% of my knitting pattern sales would go to Japanese people. I (with the help of hubby) would buy available provisions to donate for the Japanese victims relief.

You can buy them via sidebar on my blog or via Ravelry. Or if you just want to donate couple dollars, you can also click donate button.

I know the first transportation of donations from our base would be leaving sometime today-tomorrow.

Please spread the word! And let's hope and pray for the aftershocks to slow down, because it has been still pretty rocky..

:: eye candy ::

2011-03-13T04:34:00.004-05:00

In little attempts to go back to normalcy, I am leaving you with one of my favorite images from recent fashion weeks.

Preen A/W 2011-12

Photo via Style Bubble

what a sad day..

2011-03-11T06:08:00.003-05:00

I want to assure everyone that we are OK.

This has been really a scary experience.... our building is usually quite well absorbing small quakes and tremors... not today.
In fact today I planned the photoshoot for new designs and was getting ready with my make up and dressing while I felt shaking and then doors started swaying.. then all of my apartment, cabinets with glass in them started rattling, shelves, things that just laid were places there fell out on the floor and my poor cat just hid in a closet and simply won't budge when I tried to grab him and go downstairs just to wait the worst of it out..
Since the biggest earthquake at around 3pm, we've had over 30 aftershocks and all 5-6+ scale.. what one can do.. wait out the worst... I am really far from the coast so we are safe on Tsunami front and live on a 5th floor.

My heart goes out to all the victim families and areas that are affected by tsunami..death toll is rising and so many are still missing.. I guess Japan will deal with the rest of it in the morning... for now.. just prayers.

..the return of a granny square...

2011-02-28T04:17:00.004-05:00

Christopher Kane A/W 2011-12

:: festive ::

2010-12-27T07:53:00.008-05:00

M E R R Y C H R I S T M A S !

I know this is the season of all kinds of Holidays, for example we celebrate 2 Christmases and 2 New Years, fun isn't it?! All the rushing to finish the gifts in time.. just like many of you I was still knitting on a gift on Xmas Eve... Go me! I finished and it even dried by the Xmas morning, went "green" by skipping the wrapping paper and it's really loved by the recipient. Although his last hat he *cough* felted in a washing machine *cough*, but it all happened to us once in a while....

The hats are never enough, they have to go with some particular outfit, match the style and go in color, at least in my wardrobe... But there are never enough cabled hats. Classic, modern, slightly rustic and soft. I've had a skein of Rowan Cocoon left from my Sideways Cable hat from 2 seasons ago. So I put on a recent Harry Potter movie, get some DPNs to accompany my journey to a new cabled hat.

So this is Hineri.

Hineri in translation from Japanese means "a twist". The cables of this hat are worked with a little more fabric in the twists in order to give them more volume and not be so visibly consumed by the twisting.

Some information about the materials:

Yarn: Rowan Cocoon or 130 yards (119 m) of any Aran weight yarn

Needles: US 8 and US 9 DPNs (or your other favorite method of circular knitting)

Gauge: 15 stitches and 22 rows = 4 inches in over washed and blocked St st swatch worked in the round on larger needle

Sizes available: 22, 22.5"

Pattern here

As it's Christmas, this hat pattern is my gift to you!

We finally hit freezing temperatures here and I know blizzards are raging in the States. Time to go dig your stash for some bulky and let knitting of the hats commence!

Keep warm and stay safe!

:: FLOGS jacket ::

2010-12-22T01:42:00.009-05:00

I think I have lost track of all the comments and compliments that poured into my inboxes for the past 4 days! Thank you very much for your gracious and kind compliments on Cable Braided Necklace. I am truly humbled that so many of you have found it amazing and have made it already. That little technique does go even further, but I hope to show it to you possibly next week. With this blog and with projects and deadlines and holiday craze it's hard to keep promises. But we shall see!

Today I want to share a skeleton from my closet... that is something I have knit and worn and loved for many months and years now. It was planned and designed even much earlier prior to its final execution. But a staple that every wardrobe needs. Female or male. It's rather unisex in style and simplicity, the overall textured look of it - effortless and quick. Dress it up or dress it down, for a ride down the country or belt it with a skirt and pair of heels.

FLOGS jacket being chunky shows a great example of Garter stitch and its great versatility. It's very elastic and stretchy. With the right choice of yarn it can easily be that go-to cardigan or jacket for you.

For Love Of Garter Stitch.

Worked top down featuring circular yoke and seamless construction as sleeves are worked in the round. To accommodate many tastes, there are two various length instructions provided for the sleeves. Bracelet length and regular full length.

The stand up collar is great as it can reveal a little and hide some when needed. It's rather wide, so a scarf can easily be worn around your neck and still be visible!

Here are some pattern specifications.

Flogs Jacket

I used Laines du Nord Korall, which is a discontinued yarn, but one can use any bulky weight yarn.

Gauge
15 stitches and 30 rows = 4 inches in over washed and blocked swatch in Garter stitch

Required yardage
830 - 1670 yards (759 - 1527 m)

Needle size US 10 (6 mm)

Comes in 15 sizes.

Finished bust measurements: 28.25, 30.5, 32.5, 34.5, 36.75, 38.5, 40.5, 42.5, 44.75, 46.5, 48.5, 50.5, 52.75, 54.5, 56.5”

Queue it up on Ravelry

USD 7.50

Happy Knitting and Happy Holidays everyone!!

:: Cable Braided Necklace ::

2010-12-18T21:18:00.022-05:00

Yesterday, I have been deep in thought while sizing a pattern, deadlines all looming and sooo much to do before the year's end. I have thought to share a great little technique with you. Something last minute that you can make for either a gift of for yourself! It's been cool, so having that tiny bit of precious cashmere caressing your neck certainly felt cosy.

So here is what you would need:
Time: 1.5-2hr (excluding drying time).
15-20 grams of Fingering or Sport weight yarn.
Make sure to choose something delectable, tiny bit of cashmere, royal alpaca, merino or qiviut. Try the yarn on your neckline area first to determine the itchiness level as it's highly sensitive area. So you don't end up ripping necklace off after 10 minutes of wearing it. Finished/braided necklace measures approx. 22".

Needle: US 4 (3.5 mm)
Crochet hook C or D.

Gauge: 6 sts and 7-8 rows in 1" over Stockinette stitch swatch

Cabled Braids are made up by knitting 2 strips.

1st strip:

Using needle and yarn CO 9 sts.
Start by purling the 1st row. Work a total 7 rows straight in St st. On next row (RS): K4, yo, k2tog, k3.
Repeat previous 8 rows for a total of 16 times. Then work 15 rows in pattern. BO on the next row.

2nd strip:

Using needle and yarn CO 9 sts.
Start by purling the 1st row. Work a total of 15 rows straight in St st.

On next row (RS): K4, yo, k2tog, k3. Then work 7 rows in St st.
Repeat previous 8 rows for a total of 16 times. On the next row BO all sts.

If you wish to make strips longer - repeat the sequence from *.

Wash your strips, make sure to use wool wash to help and fluff those fibers. Or steam the strips if you don't have time.

Then follow the photo guide to braid your necklace or bracelet or headband.

Insert the longer end of a strip into the first yarn over of the shorter end strip.

Then insert the top strip into the yarn over of the strip below (the first yo of the longer end strip).

Then continue inserting the top strip (they will alternate) into the next yarn over, make sure not to miss any and tug on them evenly.

The view from down under.

Continue braiding and once finished you will get two different textures in the same braid. Neat!

Using crochet hook take the ends of yarn and crochet a chain to make a loop to work as a buttonhole. I have flattened the edges of the strips and joined them together just by whip stitching.

I have had these gorgeous ceramic buttons from Jenny Potter for a while and the print on them matches the texture perfectly! Just sew on the button on the other end and weave in all ends.

There are multiple ways of wearing this little accessory. 22" length was perfect to wear around the head as a headband.. almost makes me think of those very 50ies Prada cabled hair treatments, but I don't have hair long enough to demonstrate it.

Or a nifty bracelet ..

I hope you all like it!

Happy Crafting!!!

Or queue it on Ravelry!

IMPORTANT: THIS PATTERN IS FREE FOR PERSONAL USE ONLY! ANY USE OF THE PATTERN OR FINISHED GARMENTS MADE USING THIS TUTORIAL AND INTENDED FOR COMMERCIAL PURPOSE WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION ARE PROHIBITED. COPYRIGHTED. 2010.

Translated instructions for Cabled Necklace in FRENCH.

Translated instructions for Cabled Necklace in ITALIAN.

:: setting the mood ::

2010-12-14T10:03:00.003-05:00

getting into the mood for holidays with knits and snow (even if it's a fake snow)

Via Fashion Gone Rogue

:: Detail in a Twist ::

2010-12-11T02:49:00.008-05:00

I feel time of the past months just have been running like water in a spring brook. I wonder if all this sunny weather has anything to do with it, if it has been dreary and grey I bet it would have felt much more depressing, but au contraire - cheerful and warm.. even now in it's 50ies, while many others are enjoying the excessive snow early this year!
I have only recently got a chance to start breaking out my hand knits. But I have been knitting so intensely... I feel very inspired this Fall and the opportunities are just great, so I can't wait to share them with you. This week a new collection of patterns from Blue Sky Alpacas has been released and I am so happy to have a design included in it.

Knot sleeve blouse is made using unique and luxurious yarn called Royal. This yarn is from royal alpaca, without a hint of any guard hairs that makes it incredibly soft and warm.

Classically shaped with a deep-scooped neckline this blouse makes it easy to pair up with various other outfits in your wardrobe. Twist detail on the sleeve was really fun to work out as I had a vision how I wanted it to look like. In the end the instructions for it are fairly simple and even a beginner or beginner intermediate knitter can make them without a problem!
I really love the look of this Seaglass colorway, with it's blue and undertones of seafoam teal... I personally think team at BSA did tremendously well with styling and photo shoot. I hope next month to get a window of opportunity and make one for myself, those sleeves just too cool not to have in my collection of handknits.

Here are some pattern specs:

Published in: Blue Sky Alpacas Pattern Leaflet
Published: December 2010
Yarns: Blue Sky Royal
Gauge: In St st with smaller needle, 26 sts and 38 rows = 4"
Needle Size: Size 4 (3.5 mm) 34-36" circular needle, Size 3 (3.25 mm) 34-36" circular needle and set of 2 double pointed needles
Yardage: 864 to 1,152
Sizes Available: 30, 32, 34, 36, 37½, 39¼, 41½, 43¼, 45, 46¾
For more information: www.blueskyalpacas.com
Notes: This exquisite fitted cardigan features a pretty scoop neck and an ingenious knot-sleeve detail.

Queue it up on Ravelry!

Stay tuned, new patterns and more coming this week!

:: HARI ::

2010-10-27T04:53:00.007-05:00

This idea was one of those "lightbulb" moments and I just ran with it. Ever since getting a gorgeous test skein of Tosh Merino Light in Cloak from Amy (Madelinetosh) at TNNA I have been thinking of what goodness can come out of it.. After some time and contemplation I decided to give this yarn a try and the amazing nature of the stitches formed Hari. This was just what I wanted and hoped for... Hari in translation from Japanese means "needle", to me it's a needle, spike, peak... which can be a fanthom once heavily stretched...

Knit simply straight following the continuous repeats, I had the yarn and stitches dance into peaks and valleys with a lovely zigzagged edges... what was most cool is that the make up of this is so easy.. yet I got the intricate landscape growing. Rhythm of lace making, which is not very elaborate, but can be a great training for your short-term memory.

In the end it had to become more than just a scarf.. By using several hook and eye closures this fabric is manipulated, morphed and naturally expanded its wearability.

Scarf
Long cowl - close the loop
Short cowl - twisted it once and close it in a loop, arrange around your neck
Snood - just close it in a loop by twisting once,arrange around your neck and head
Shrug, Shawl or Stole... as the design comes with 2 length and width variations - the wider one can easily become the later.

Yarn:
Tosh Merino Light - 1 skein for shorter-narrower version, 2 skeins for wider-longer version

Finished measurements: 9" x 45" and 13.5 x 66"
Needle: US 5 (3.75 mm)
Notions:
hook and eye closures

The pattern comes with clear written instructions and a chart as well as some tips. The pattern has been test knit in 2 other weights (dk and worsted).

For what it's worth and if you are knitting from stash.. this can work great because Hari can be made with Any weight yarn (I'd still suggest to stay within fingering, sport, dk, worsted, maybe chunky range). Just reconsider your yardage calculations if you are substituting it.

pdf knit pattern download

USD $6.00

:: Gareth Pugh ::

2010-10-26T00:57:00.002-05:00

Spring Summer Collection for 2011
edgy genius..

:: The Dreamer excerpt ::

2010-10-21T09:15:00.004-05:00

Anna Maria Jagodzinska by Laura Sciacovelli for Vogue UK, October 2010

:: Urban Jungle excerpt::

2010-10-20T11:49:00.002-05:00

Ten Haken:: Urban Jungle for Vogue China

:: miura cowl ::

2010-10-11T01:45:00.007-05:00

Miura Cowl is named after a folding method of origami tessellation. It represents positive and negative spaces, but naturally gathering and keeping the voluminous look and while stretched it exposes textural beauty of knit and purl stitches arranged on it's surface. It's completely reversible as both inside and out have same patterning. I can visualize wearing this with a basic peacoat or a coat to bring up the interest to the neckline and balance out the outfit. Truth is it might have been getting real cold in some regions, but today it's 85F and just two days ago it was 50.. Autumn is creeping in slowly in Japan but surprising Indian Summer days are the only reminders that are left of the past heat. It's been steadily raining and I had a chance to wear my cowl out (with my new rainboots no less). I'd recommend avoiding busy prints to go with it. Polished minimalism and texture is what this accessory is trying to convey.. But also switch around the yarn weight, it would add more volume and expressed texture.

I certainly had fun taking photos, one can only imagine how creative you can get in order accomplish something all by yourself!

Materials
Habu textiles Lambswool linen, 52gr or any DK weight yarn approx. 210 yds. Color Lavender grey #11

US 4 (3.5 mm) circular needle

Queue it on Ravelry

The pattern contains chart as well as written instructions for those who don't like or don't feel comfortable with charts.

USD 3.50

:: obsessing about ::

2010-10-01T07:32:00.016-05:00

My obsession of the moment.. soft luxurious sweater to cocoon myself in, the softest embrace of fibers... as you might have notices the upcoming season relays sooo much of fur, faux or not, I like to think I'm going to have best of all of them.. as it is real fur but cruelty free.. say impossible?
I have been saving a very special birthday gift from couple years ago of Mink Cashmere yarn and I think I finally have found a perfect sweater it needs to become.. Nothing fussy, basic form, minimal shaping.. something like either of these..

photo from here

photo from here

photo from here

And looking into forecasts for next year I've seen so much of yarns as mohair/furry looking ones making a come back.. I know personally pure mohair is a bit scratchy, but very warm... just remembering those Orenburg shawls made from mohair goat down.. so amazingly warm but thin as an entire shawl passes through a wedding band! That type of yarn can be extremely hard to source, but for the lovers of soft and non-irritable I can suggest to point your shoes towards Blue Sky Alpacas Brushed Suri ! It has no mohair in it, it has baby suri, merino and bamboo (last two pretty much create the core to hold baby suri) which in yarn and knit looks like a loftier mohair but is much softer.. I have recently swatched some of that yarn and I took a little natural brush to my swatch! The result.. it's amazing, it's fluffy without the bulk, drapey and still very lightweight! I think a whole sweater in this yarn will look just as real fur if that is the look that you are seeking for. And believe me after seeing and touching tons and tons of jackets and sweaters knit in acrylic boucle in stores of Japan.. this would be a real treat to work with, own and wear!

Speaking of mohair, my mom has requested a birthday gift this year to be knit. She really wanted Arcus pullover, but asked for it to be a bit more cropped and hit the length of hip bones. I have had some Kidsilk Night in creamy white in my stash for a while.. and of course, when I finished I washed and blocked it, tried it on... packed and mailed it off .. forgetting to take photos!
But it came out so warm and silk presence in that yarn definitely made working it up more pleasurable! The photo below is from the Ori Ami Knits book and the original Arcus pullover has been knit using Silk and Mohair blend yarn from Habu textiles. The perk - it's transformable!

:: prada spring summer 2011 ::

2010-09-26T09:10:00.002-05:00

Miuccia went bananas... literally and the colors.. see for yourself! What do you think?

:: foggy hat::

2010-09-25T06:30:00.017-05:00

And this week's pattern has finally arrived! It's been up for couple days but with dramatic chain of events of actual weather changes delayed me posting about it. Autumnal equinox, Moon day.. call me superstitious, everything on the to do list starting colliding together.. And then there was a power outage, great way to lost bunch of unsaved work on your computer! We finally hit low 60ies at night and though it occasionally warms back up to 90 with the sun outside, the second rainy season for the year has begun... By pouring swimming pools (literally, not puddles!) of water from a passing by typhoon and that promptly made me order my first pair of rainboots. I've been holding off on them, being a fan of fancy boots/shoes wearing vs rainboots. In my mind rain boots are associated with ugly black stinky ones, that were being sold in every soviet department store for adults or kids when I was growing up. And nowadays I was stunned with colors and abundance of styles.. even started a discussion on twitter among friends and their preferences. It was hard... I mean it is awesome to play with a box of crayons and consider possibilities..and afterall how many pairs of rain boots does one own? Right, I am going for 1 to last me a long long while.. and with help of others I chose violet.. although initially my heart was set on yellow or glossy grey...

And while speaking of grey.. there is lots of it taking place in my wardrobe.. so monochromatic collection is being created for a reason and here the addition or reveal.

Foggy hat.
Simple in shape, textured look using this cool stitch pattern, big needle along with thick (worsted weight) yarn make it easy and quick to craft in an evening or two. And the pattern for it is available in 3 sizes.

This one I have made using just a little over half a skein of Blue Sky Alpacas Suri Merino yarn in color Fog. I have worked with this amazing yarn before and it is just soft and silky as well as incredibly warm. Little holes in the the stitch created with yarn overs play a role of tiny vents if you want.. in case you tend to get a little toasty.

To fit head circumferences 20", 21.5", 22.75"

Yarn: Blue Sky Alpacas Suri Merino 1 skein or 164 yards (150 m) of any worsted weight yarn.
Needle US 8 (5 mm) needle to work in a round (your preferred method, 16", dpns, magic loop or 2 circulars).

The way it's constructed - every motif is a little different and as you work on the hat - is progressively getting smaller. The pattern contains clear written instructions as well as a chart. So in case charts make you uncomfortable, you can follow row by row instructions for it. Have fun knitting! And don't forget to share the photos.

On Ravelry

Queue it now

USD 5.00

And I am going to go back to some more writing and knitting as have something exciting coming up next for all of you!!! *smirk*

:: Monochromatic Introduction to Fall ::

2010-09-14T06:45:00.007-05:00

It is still sizzling here in Japan, but the fact that Fall is coming and with its inevitable cold and rain got me thinking what is the best way to get into those warm cushy sweaters many can't wait to wrap themselves into. Since knitwear is the "new black" or " a must" everywhere this upcoming season, I surely hope Ice Age is not going to happen during it... pessimistic as it may look on the runway.. with it's military and furry and tons and tons of flannel layers.. I thought it would be nice a nice start to start with some accessories.

It's basic, it's spot on and adjustable as anyone can convert the palette to their own liking. Thing is I don't personally look good in warm colors or any khakis and neutral colors make me couple years "corpse-y", so I turn to my basic monochromatic friends, natural, some shades of grey and then some black. To this day I still don't own a single black sweater (oh, how did this happen?), so this little mini collection is going to stir up some infusions in my wardrobe!..

So every week starting this week I am going to release a pattern, how many of them going to be... 4 for now. Will see what a cold weather may influence me with later.. for now it's lots of texture and fun things, things to bring an eye to your accessory while your whole outfit can be as simple as you like it.. or not!

For now I am leaving you with some sneak peeks.. just enough to get excited. There is more coming, I promise.

alana zimmer by txema yeste for marie claire

2010-08-25T11:08:00.001-05:00

:: murasaki ::

2010-08-21T22:32:00.010-05:00

Murasaki (jap.) means purple, violet.

This pullover has a long story, back in 2007 Neighborhood Fiber Co has asked me to create a design that would showcase their hand-dyed yarns beautifully for their first show at TNNA in January 2008. This pullover was a hit, only my life turned into a whirlwind and I've had hard time first locating my notes, then finally finding time for this luxurious pullover to be published. Today it is finally seeing the light of day! It has lots of people involved into its making - from yarn supplier to a person who lent her "speedy Gonzales" knitting skills to finish it in time for TNNA to tech editor to verify the pattern to the photographer who took photos and processed the graphic design as well. 5 people to make this available to you. Sometimes we don't think what goes into making of a design and then into a pattern, how much of resources, planning, labor and commitment not only of one person, but several. And all I wish for you to knit this and enjoy the process starting from your fiber choice and to final result of wearing the pullover and loving the design.

Luxurious yarns that it's worked with are from an indie dyer, Neighborhood Fiber Co "Penthouse Spun Silk" and "Loft", one is 100% silk and another is silk and mohair blend. Putting those two together against each other created a cool juxtaposition even though dyed in same colorway. Fibers tend to take up dye differently, so this is exactly what makes the stripes even more prominent.

I've chosen the option to have detachable sleeves just for one reason, I wish for some sweaters I could wear when it is springy weather outside, losing the sleeves helps, but in a case of weather going cooler - pull the sleeves back up again. This creates balance, silk as a fiber can be warm and cool, while silk mohair stripes are knit on bigger needle to its weight, so becoming rather breezy, again all about balance.

Seamless, entirely worked in a round, weaving in stripes' ends as you go. And don't forget about the sleeves, stand alone they are trendy silky armwarmers, that can dress up an evening dress or a short sleeved jacket - perfect accessory!

The pattern ranges across 16 sizes starting from bust size 28" to 58". It contains written instructions and stitch count updates throughout entire pattern. Instructions include a chart to help you keep track of striping according to each size.

For more information vision this pattern's page Murasaki Pullover

Happy Knitting!

USD 7.50

Infinite is limitless..

2010-08-14T00:58:00.008-05:00

So everything you plan is going in zig zags back and forth, sometimes I wish I really had a chance to be one-project-at a time knitter/designer, yet I can't. I have that eery feeling that if I don't at least swatch and document that design in my sketchbook, that idea would float away. But this way I can revisit it and get working through it once time permits. Wonders of a designer brain!!!

Summer in Japan has indeed been very eventful in that department, this country is so amazing, I admit I've never had such creative forces surrounding me. It's in every single thing, from a manhole cover in a very intricate pattern crazy enough to stop a photo of it and to bizarre customs and dress codes.

This past June while it was a rainy season in Japan I've got to travel back to the States for TNNA and honestly it was lots of work and fun at the same time... More on that later, on how many wonderful designer friends I've got to see and meet as well as yarn shop owners who are thrilled as I am about our book Ori Ami Knits:Fiber Geometry! So excited, that we actually sold out and now we are on our second edition folks!!! And pre-orders are up again!! This makes me incredibly happy, that people of the industry and knitters found the designs and contents to their taste! We couldn't have done it without you, I know we couldn't have!! So Thank You for your support!!!

Amidst travel I have been working on lots more new patterns, but this wonderful weather of 90-100F has been a big distraction recently. As we live relatively close to the beach now...trying to enjoy some of those hot days there.

Today I am going to share with you a new design I have introduced at TNNA called Infinite Loop. I am particularly excited about this one as it got tremendous response and it's something I've always wanted to have in my wardrobe. It can be worn in over 15 (!!!) ways. It's lightweight enough to carry around in a purse and has no season to it! Moreover this garment is set to launch my wholesale line of patterns. Means that if you are a yarn shop and would like to carry Olgajazzy patterns, you now can! Just contact me.

It's knit using light fingering or heavy laceweight yarn, in my case I've used Habu Textiles N-35A, which is 100% rayon with viscose sizing but only comes in 2 colors for time being, insane in yardage, very affordable and possibly a perfect marriage for this design and yarn. It comes in a skein and feels very wire-y and crisp, but wait till you soak it in water and let is dry, it has features of bamboo silky drape but yet still holding that crisp structure.

But if you would like to use your stash this yarn would be easy to substitute because of the ginormous lace yarn market we have, if it would be for another Habu Textiles yarn it can be A-174 Cotton Gima, but out of other generic yarns how about my new personal favorite Madelinetosh Prairie. I must say I've been replying some folks on Ravelry considering their yarn choice for this, so please if you need help or advice, please don't hesitate to email me to PM or leave a comment, I would love to assist you if I can!

The pattern I've written to accomodate 16 sizes ranging from 28-58" bust sizes.

Needle size: US 3 (3.25 mm)

Gauge: 24 sts and 36 rows in 4" over Stockinette Stitch

Yardage required: 2280-4560 yds

Pattern price: USD $10

[A little note here, some were asking why the price is so high for this, but I have a simple reply. When you have a piece of clothing you can wear so many possible ways - this is a bargain. If you buy a single pattern, it can only be worn the way it was meant to be. Even if out of 15+ ways to wear Infinite loop you only like 2-3 ways, you still win!]

All possible pictures won't fit into any blog post. So for that reason pattern pdf has variations documented on a dress form. Please check the styling video below how many ways this garment can be worn. Funny thing is, since I've made this video, I've found at least another 2 ways! SO please experiment!!

Now onto more pattern writing and knitting! Mata-ne!

it feels like eternity...

2010-08-02T08:48:00.004-05:00

Past 3 months have been so busy, I was afraid I won't have enough to show you here. But I do, tons and plentiful, amongst travels between seas and cities, time zones and climates... I have it all coming to you tomorrow.. get excited!

The image expresses exactly how I felt..tied up by yarns connected to projects, things and lists what to do.. but in a positive way, imagine this as if my thinking face..

I have found this amazing photographer.

And most breathtaking one below..

All copyrights to these images belong to the photographer, I do not own anything. http://oprisco.com/

texture

2010-04-29T04:45:00.002-05:00

inspiration

:: ashen details ::

2010-04-19T07:18:00.006-05:00

As Volcano in Iceland keeps spewing ash and causing havoc of disastrous proportions over Europe it makes me only hope and wish that nearby Fuji doesn't start doing the same as it is also way overdue and considering the wind and proximity - it certainly won't be a pretty sight to see. At orientation week they informed us that last time Fuji-san did erupt, it threw up boulder-sized of a building/houses right into this area, which is pretty darn close!

Observing all that madness I kept knitting away on my new design this week. Ever since knitting of Ori Ami Knits garments was complete I was sketching more ideas and desire to explore deeper and beyond the concept we have created. With monochromatic influence of the upcoming season I have decided to challenge myself to try expressing depth of my knit garments through a different angle.

This one is Ashen, collection of colors, fibers, stitches, details all in one pullover. This is coming to life fast and will be done just in time for warmer days this week. Deep in heart, I hope to wear this as these dark clouds of Japanese mountains descending, so they just *stay* in a garments, while we bask in the warmth! (I really wish!)

:: day to day ::

2010-04-12T00:09:00.003-05:00

Though it was a sunny awesome day here yesterday and 77F weather really teased with a dress and sandals, today it is back to cold day in Japan with pouring rain all day long. Many say it does rain here a lot in spring but usually very warm by now... But weather did give us a couple of single days suitable to enjoy the Hanami season.

And when the wind is blowing it is snowing millions of pink petals.

On Sunday morning I was thinking through a new design and had one of those light bulb moments, just had to sit down and do it right away. At least, it was morning time, not my usual 2am when those strike! 2 attempts later at this wretched hem, by Monday afternoon it is done and well underway along with a surprising find in my needle stash. I have discovered a pair of Addi Turbo, not lace ones, but regular ones with a sharp tips and that just makes my knitting glide! (Wonder when and where those were obtained?!)

Decided it is time to share more process photos of the projects and my general sketching, tools and place where "magic" happens. Today only the light is horrible, so this is for something to see in the future.

I have found watching or rather listening to movies can be an entertaining background while I work, but discovered a better source than just music. Audio books - they are much easier for this purpose and one can find lots of them free online. And just perfect, I don't own a Kindle or Nook or iPad but audio books really took away my guilt for not reading more books, so instead I listen.

As any spring, this one wasn't any different about my sewing bug. I see many quilting these days, it is of an epidemic proportions, but that is a hobby I really don't have room or patience for though. So have been inspired this year to incorporate some knit details into my sewing. Like I did a couple years ago on a jacket. Here it is ... yummy silk jersey

I have been on a hunt in a couple of yarn stores, crafting places in search of cool and mind-blowing fibers to explore.. I must say I have seen a very puny share of what Japan has to offer. So I have started with a reliable store before, not in person yet (as they are located all the way in Kyoto), but via amazingly fast Japanese mail! The site is in English as well, as well as great customer service! Now just to think of what other wonderful things to acquire from them!
LIN-NET.COM

This wonderful linen is currently on my needles and is being made into something fabulous.

:: Ksenia Kahnovich for Byblos Spring 2010 ::

2010-04-08T15:43:00.007-05:00

It is spring somewhere afterall... so bringing in some awesome Springy knit inspirations... (yes, I am complaining about this cold Japanese weather we've been having, which is so not April-like to me)

view other non-knitted stuff from collection

:: are we there yet? ::

2010-04-08T06:31:00.020-05:00

I know past months just zoomed by me. In haste and knitting time and things to do just to wish the cold grey days away faster and welcome spring. The ways things work in the industry - have to think about upcoming season while it is still cold outside. Planning, sketching, playing with fibers, finding oneself overwhelmed with possibilities and wishful thinking of helping hands. Because laws of creativity work this way - the more you design and think of, even more comes your way, even when you sleep.

Looking back at Fall 2010 runways, gathering the feelings it gave, it scares me. We are so close to apocalyptic end, aren't we? Palette is rather depressive. Don't get me wrong, I adore greys and blacks, but neutrals and obscene amount of military shades throw me off.
Nomads, gypsies, piles in layers upon layers, real and faux fur, smartly arranged to make it ever ready for a new ice-age. Injections of tartan for color here and there, but overall domination of cocoon-like knits. I have seen cold season's runways having some knitwear, but let me tell you.. fashion industry have seemed to exploded with it this time. Cabled, fair-isled and warm-looking drapey garments have been spotted everywhere, Prada, Daks, Pringle of Scotland of course. Dolce & Gabbana have produced entire collection in fair-isle motifs.

Daks

So what is runway trying to convey - the end is soon and we need to be ready, is it recession taking its toll?
Footwear suitable to be your second skin, wardrobe and accessories to help survive a nuclear winter or inevitability of this all... yet trying to preserve the beauty but introducing more function into it. I am sure we knew it long time ago, so let's embrace the palette, keep experimenting with texture and construction, keep calm and continue knitting on.

Dolce & Gabbana

Rick Owens

Prada

:: Ori Ami Knits. Chapter 2 ::

2010-03-19T02:10:00.011-05:00

Things are slowly coming to a production end here on our work at Ori Ami Knits. So far all patterns have been already released digitally. Today I want to share images of Chapter 2 which we named "Subtle Layers". In this chapter we share the ideas for more and more popular trend of layering your clothing.

It maybe actual layering or just a trick of an eye. Like in this design below - Duplicity pullover. It only looks that it has 2 shirts worn over each other, but it is actually some clever trimming incorporated and thanks to its texture difference and contrast it makes the sweater pop. Fibers that have been used in it are Tsumugi silk and Wool wrapped stainless Steel. Both from Habu textiles and of course it just can't get any better with those yarns!

Duplicity on Ravelry

Puzzle Vest in its turn represents a garment you that is also made with Tsumugi silk, but created texture and combination of complimenting colors make it fun when worn on its own and when layered.

Puzzle Vest on Ravelry

Arcus means "rolling cloud" and it is exactly what this pullover looks and does even more. Knit in silk mohair and is versatile as it offers wearer many options. Incorporated drawstring casings are knit into the body of the sweater, so there is not much of fiddly finishing there. By pulling them up along the shoulders, they create these rolling folds around the entire yoke, you can let them out and have an oversized cowl around your neckline or even pull it over your head for a snood. The cocoon feel of this amazing fiber certainly feels as luxury!

Arcus Pullover on Ravelry

Which one will you knit now?

:: Pringle ist rad! ::

2010-02-24T04:12:00.008-05:00

Fall 2010/Winter 2011 Runway just exploded with Knitwear starting last week in NYC, but I will savor it for later.. for now I really want to share what a great new collection Pringle of Scotland has put up again. Here is also their new video on how sweaters are made, cute and good sense of humor!

Way to "destroy" stereotypes of a knitter's age, unless Scotland's population has more older people, I guess...

:: tell me your secrets ::

2010-02-09T11:12:00.001-05:00

What is your favorite superwash solid wosted weight wool yarn?(surveys)

:: Viktor & Rolf :: Magdalena Frackowiak ::

2010-02-08T10:36:00.002-05:00

This excerpt from Dazed and Confused photoshoot proves again how ingeniously amazing Viktor and Rolf are!

Giant rugs by Sebastian Schoenheit

2010-02-03T07:18:00.001-05:00

Source

:: Ori Ami Knits ::

2010-02-01T04:21:00.015-05:00

Most of you know by or have read earlier that me and amazing photographer and graphic designer Vanessa Yap-Einbund/coloursknits with a contribution from Kirsten Johnstone have been working for the past and this year on a publication. Which is a book, a digital and printed one. After obscene amount of work that we shared I must admit, producing a book is not an easy job at all. It is very demanding and very meticulous. Hours and hours of discussing the details, then actually arranging them, making them, producing, writing, editing, marketing and a million of other things to go with it. I would like to confess that I have learnt so much from this experience thus far. Sometimes it came at the cost of spending less time with loved ones and friends, but they all turned out being very understanding and helpful, for which I am deeply appreciative and thankful.

Last week we have started sending out the first installment of the digital book. We have named our first chapter - Practical geometry. Here is a short preview of the garments. There is much more to follow, that reminds me that I need to go back to work right now and leave you with these to ponder. Please let us know your thoughts.

Cubed Necklace (Ravelry)

Axonometric top (Ravelry)

Rhombus wrap (Ravelry)

Trapezium pullover (Ravelry)

We have also started Ori Ami Knits group on Ravelry. (You need to be a Ravelry member to log in).

If you are interested in subscribing to the book and have questions please go here.
Remember it is a limited edition publication and we have been taking subscriptions since October 2009. So you may want to hurry to reserve your copy today. =)

We do offer wholesale as well, please email info@oriamknits.com for a wholesale package.

photo copyright © 2010 Ori Ami Knits

Review by Laura of Newedist is here

:: Happy New Year! ::

2010-01-15T02:35:00.007-05:00

Officially, in Japan people keep congratulating you with the New Year till around mid January, so I am not being really late! Happy 2010!!!

I hope this year is going to bring much much more exciting events to all of you, while I am going to tease you about my life in Japan. First impression or not, it is AWESOME! It's just as I expected it to be and more.. so many things that have been learnt. Where would have I gone next day after we had landed in the country of a Rising Sun?...
Yes, a craft/yarn store! It was 5 floor high and best to go by myself and spend a whole day at! A whole floor to fabrics, a floor to yarn and buttons, a floor to stationary and beading, bagmaking, silversmithing, leather crafts, etc .. it is enough to make one want to throw up from the sensory overload. Especially if you are like me and do lots of those crafts. To compare with something else, it is like Costco Superstore sized High end craft store!
I have not taken any photos of it yet, but I have many moons ahead of me!

Just before New Years I got a chance to meet up with wonderful Reiko/joujoka who is a fellow blogger and a knitter living in Tokyo. She is very kind and met us at Kichijoji station and have taken me to...

right, Avril! I can't wait to meet up with her again so we can explore more crafty destinations in Tokyo and suburbs and hopefully meet more Japanese knitters!
After that we went to get Siow Chin who arrived that day to Japan for holidays with her family! It was soo much fun to have met them all now! I have known Siow Chin for couple years online, we have exchanged packages, but it was still quite surreal to finally meet in real life! And the girls are the sweetest and so funny!

Shinjuku lights...

I have seen 2010 in on Zojoji Temple grounds and it was amazing!

How did you spend your holidays??

:: Antonio Redaelli ::

2009-12-27T01:00:00.003-05:00

Some photography fun + knitwear.

:: Cosmic Nomad :: by Mark Gong ::

2009-12-21T20:06:00.004-05:00

Kate Somers by Horst Diekgerdes

2009-12-17T08:47:00.004-05:00

Elle USA December issue had some amazing knitwear...

Source FSB

~~~

2009-11-26T16:04:00.003-05:00

Mirza Mperial Spring 2010

2009-11-26T15:37:00.003-05:00

:: excitement ::

2009-10-26T17:52:00.009-05:00

I have been holding off some exciting news and they just started piling up, so I guess I can start spilling some of the most exciting ones. This winter an "idiot's dream" is coming true and our household of hubby and the cat is moving to Japan for the next 3 years!!!
I know excitement was just pouring out of me, having moved overseas before, I am looking forward, but this time only a bit worried for not knowing any language [yet!]. We are going to be only hour or so away from Tokyo and very close to Mount Fuji. Japan is one of the countries that has always been a mystery to me. The ways of people, their culture, technology, fashion - all that inspiration! I can't wait to start exploring and sharing with you!
My longest fascination with Habu Textile fibers will be in heaven and now I would be able to visit [mother company] Avril and drool all over that yumminess!!!

On the other exciting news...

For the past 6 months I have been actively working on a project along with Vanessa Yap-Einbund known as coloursknits. Earlier this month with the help of our friends we launched the website and are really to tell the World all about it! Ori Ami Knits is a book that has 15 designs knit entirely out of Habu Textile fibers, beautifully photographed by Vanessa in northern California. There is a significant amount of innovation in this book and I can't wait for all of you to see it! For information on how to get the book please subscribe on the website.

And to top all these news, Fibre Space, a yarn shop here in Alexandria, VA is hosting us, both authors on November 5, 6-9pm for an exclusive book preview! If you are in the area come see and try on all garments as well as enjoy our company and delicious refreshments!

:: revisiting Chanel, again ::

2009-09-19T22:07:00.004-05:00

Came across a photoshoot by Ruven Afanador for October 2009 Marie Claire and spotted this dress..

To inspect closer.. as the bottom of it made me think that it is most likely made with Habu Textiles Silk Wrapped Stainless Steel yarn.. which I adore working with!

Here it is from the Runway.

and while we are at it, totally need to make those pink knit stockings/tights!

:: yarn dress ::

2009-09-03T09:48:00.001-05:00

yarny princess of the forest

Source

:: chanel, balenciaga and linda evangelista ::

2009-08-18T11:45:00.003-05:00

Vogue Italia

:: ANTM and Petal Halter::

2009-08-18T09:02:00.005-05:00

I wish I had time to watch tv , but when I did have it I certainly was sucked into the America's Next Top Model show to see what real hardships are for someone to become a model and not just to have a pretty face and be tall!

I just saw over the Interweave knits facebook that an amateur model that was modeling for the magazine and happen to be also one modeling my Petal Halter design back in Spring 2009 issue! I am so happy for Jennifer, so no I need time to watch it and root for the model who did such an amazing job before!

photo courtesy of Interweave Knits

With this also came a realization that I actually didn't get to blog about this design of mine more extensively. It has been my first for Interweave Knits and coincidental on some part. It has been knit within a week and yarn choices where 1 out of 3 and at the very last minute everything was late on my behalf as this took place last year during the hardest times in my life. Nowadays I look back and think to myself, I wasn't entirely there... or was I so into work that actually helped me cope.
But this outcome proves that working under pressure and when you are sometimes not happy with the other emotional part of your life it was entirely worthy being invested in a project.

Petal Halter has been inspired just from a sneak of a quilted sewn couture piece, that was very distant from my knit interpretation, but yet it triggered the right ideas and execution methods were well on the way to be figured out...

I am very thankful to Eunny Jang and Lisa Shroyer who dealt with me during that time to this garment happen and make it on the pages of IK. With each experience, you learn more and more!

And Here are some links to Knitting Daily website where Eunny was kind enough to put a workshop on the Petal halter and show different possibilities for a wearer.

As recently as June I have finished my Petal halter in grey that I wear a lot this summer ! And it is great to see how same garment looks different in a different shade!
Happy knitting!

And yet again Jennifer has done amazing job!
ANTM starts September 7.

:: Drumroll, Please ::

2009-07-03T14:59:00.006-05:00

WOW!

Thank you sooo much for your generous comment! I was busy and neglected this post for a while, so much knitting going in my little studio daily these days, makes my head spin, but certainly it will be worth the wait I hope!

So many eager participants, I really wish I had more to give away, but only one and it is going to Kelly Maher aka tragicheroine, Congratulations to her and the yummy package of Spud&Chloe is on the way to her in Canada.

As a consolation to my readers here is some eye candy, which I always find exciting to share as they are very inspirational.
Junya Watanabe, Jean Paul Gaultier and Dries Van Noten. They are not fresh, but the best!

photo courtesy of Livejournal community ru_glamour

:: spud&chloe giveaway ::

2009-06-23T12:48:00.009-05:00

First, I need to thank all of my readers and supporters, I am so happy you loved Grecian top! I must admit one of mine is going to live with my mother, who is actually very hard to impress, but she loved it so! So now all need to get to knitting as I can't wait to see more of them knit up in the wild! Now onto a new adventure!

Trifecta Scarf - I think this was a project I was pushing through my holidays. Knitting it everywhere I went, even on that darn Red Line (I was once stuck for an hour and a half underground!) but having a blast at this stitch pattern!

I was told more detailed photos of the scarf will be posted shortly on the Spud & Chloe website.

But here is my swatch so you can see the details. It is in the different yarn that the original sample was made and is just scanned in the photo below. You can also make it into a shawl if desired, just add more of those repeats.

This line is utterly amazing, all is machine washable and oh soooo soft! I want to thank Sylvia who offered this amazing opportunity to work with this yarn and the company!
So in gratitude to all this I want to announce a little giveaway!

Spud & Chloe Fine yarn enough to make Trifecta scarf in the colors of the original sample as well as the printed pattern for it!
This yarn is 80% superwash merino and 20% silk. Yummm!

I can't wait to see someone knit this up and have full Spud & Chloe experience. I missed TNNA this June, but I heard that their display was one of the most creative in the show.. so sorry to have missed it, but caught a glimpse on it on various blogs.

In fact, I want to continue working with this yarn, even though it is fine and tiny needle eat up your time, but it is so much fun, that it doesn't even matter!

So in order to get your crafty hands on this, please leave me a comment by midnight, 26 June, Friday (linked to your blog or your Ravelry name) so I would have a way of contacting you. Then will determine a winner out of a hat!

:: Grecian Top finally here ::

2009-06-01T14:24:00.010-05:00

A while back, almost 2 years now I think, I have finished this top I made out of Elsebeth Lavold Hempathy, it was a designing attempt for something summery, simple, but enough detail and flair to be interesting. At that time I didn't happen to take any notes on the process and it was when a whole lot of knitters started requesting this pattern. I tried to resize it from what I had to work with and last month I actually bit the bullet and have re-knit the whole top from a different yarn, but having learnt so much more since way back when the original was created, the pattern turned out quite pleasing!

And now I am so proud to present Grecian top [Ravelry link] to all of you, readers, knitters and lurkers :D

It is a top down design that involves minimal sewing, trimmed with applied cabled edging and the pattern is offered in 13 sizes and comes with options of 2 sleeve lengths and 2 variations for hem.

You can make it cap sleeve or elbow length and have your hem either slightly curved or straight.

To fit bust: (28, 30, 32, 34) (36, 38, 40, 42, 44) (46, 48, 50, 52)”
Finished garment length: (20.5, 20.75, 21, 21.25) (21.5, 21.75, 23.25, 23.75, 24.5) (24.75, 25.25, 25.75, 26.25)”

Yarn
Elsebeth Lavold Hempathy (34% hemp, 41% cotton, 25% modal; 154 yds 140m/50 gr 1.75 oz; #8, turquoise.
or
Habu Textiles XS-24 20/12 bamboo (100% bamboo; 80 yds 73 m/28 gr1 oz; color 1;

(654, 700, 747, 794) (840, 887, 934, 1000, 1040) (1100, 1150, 1200, 1250) yds

Needles
3.25mm circular needle 24”
3.25mm double pointed needle (or 2 circular needles in same size)
2.25mm double pointed needles
OR USE NEEDLE TO OBTAIN GAUGE

Other materials
crochet hook size B or C
scrap yarn in same weight
removable stitch markers
tapestry needle

Gauge
28 sts and 36 rows in 4” over washed and blocked St st swatch on larger needles knit in the round

For those of you who may find doing applied cable edging a challenge, I have updated the tutorial on it! So it would be easier to knit through thinking that you have some back support. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to email me to address on the sidebar.

I want to thank all of knitters who encouraged me and never stopped bugging me for the pattern! It has been nominated for Official Sexy Knitters Club KAL a while back, hopefully you are still passionate about this project!

Also my dear friends, who made suggestions and made this possible [Vanessa, Alexandra, Priscilla, Mac]!

Casey, Jess, Mary-Heather for featuring it in the Spotlight on the Ravelry pattern page!!!!!

Hope all of you enjoy it and Happy Knitting!

On Ravelry

Non-Ravelry members can purchase this through buttons below

wonderful photography by Vanessa/coloursknits

:: sofie dillon ::

2009-05-21T01:21:00.005-05:00

she is a photographer, some knitwear shots, that may be old, but good and inspirational.

:: Akomeogi Tunic ::

2009-05-20T18:29:00.005-05:00

I want to share a great joy of mine, of being published in Interweave Knits magazine, this is my second design for them and I am really pleased how it turned out. I want to publicly thank Eunny Jang and Lisa Shroyer for dealing with my difficult situation at a time to have this out of me. This experience was utterly amazing, because I took so much from it, being challenged to be presented with a wonderful opportunity at the most complex time of your life is something indescribable, but this is what you call life . As trying to motivate yourself regardless that things that needed to be done and testing self-discipline no matter what. I didn't come out all bright and shiny, some tasks failed, some I persevered through. And here you can see the outcome. I am going to write more about Petal Halter with a tutorial later. But for now, I give you Akomeogi Tunic, which in translation from Japanese means "folding fan". To be honest, I had the sketch and yarn for this garment since June 2007. But what all of you get to see in a finished project is a bit processed from this original sketch.

And here it is, photoshoot from Interweave Knits Summer 2009. I am so grateful to the editors and stylists and the photographer who took so many details pictures.

photo courtesy of Interweave Knits website

And yesterday, as Knitting Daily presented their galleries, I saw it being modeled by many different ladies: ages and figure and ease.
So head over there and make a judgement for yourself.

On a personal note, I learnt that I enjoyed working with linen yarn to such extent that I have acquired a new object of desire. Linen in all kinds and weights. It is perfect for sticky and changeable DC summers. This particular design reflects my taste and my desire for knitwear to carry, some are very wearable and plain, but some boutique pieces that retail for hundreds and hundreds with an oomph to them, the unusual that every woman has and yet to express it. I love expressing mine through what I wear, this is not just a cloth to cover yourself, but also reflect on how you feel. I love fashion and everything about it, it is again a theatre, just a medium for others to percept your real self.

And now, I remember I have Louet and Lin-net linen to play with, hmmm! Possibilities are tasteful!

:: chanel fall 2009-2010 :: we are dolls::

2009-05-18T20:31:00.003-05:00

:: New design is a good oldie ::

2009-05-12T19:05:00.011-05:00

Remember me???

Many of you have been asking me for the Silk Camel Jacket pattern that I have knit over 2 years ago, this jacket has been worn and loved for a long time. And now you have a chance to make one for yourself! Shibui Knits yarn company have offered to publish my design once I have re-knit it in their Merino Kid yarn in this lovely Honey color. Someone may not like idea of working with kid mohair as considered a scratchy and relatively fuzzy yarn and this is where this yarn comes in to destroy that myth. Shibui Knits Merino Kid is actually a very lovely smooth, shiny yarn to work with, I really enjoyed working with it. The fibers were long enough to prevent the garment from becoming a fuzz ball, but yet be able to preserve the drape and be very warm.

image courtesy of Shibui Knits website

I have worked it on 4mm needle and it is a top down construction, which again makes finishing easier. Bishop sleeves easily shaped, Peter Pan collar using short rows to help it lay better and i-cord edging to give it a crisp finish. I have used grosgrain ribbon to re-enforce both edges of the cardigan opening and have sewn plastic clothing snaps, which I became really fond of in past years. All that helped me make this look professionally finished garment.

Shibui Knits have chosen to have my garment modeled backwards to show off the versatility of it. But for those who are more traditional and curious what is does look like in the "actual front" you can refer to the photos of my prototype. Also Retro Tailored Jacket, this is what it's going by in the Knit World, has been included in TNNA fashion show last January in San Diego, CA. So hit it at 4:00 minute mark to see it being strut down the runway. Happy knitting!

More spoiler designs for you to come!

:: <3 Jil Sander ::

2009-05-09T12:48:00.003-05:00

Every year their collection takes my breath away.

:: having fun is hard work ::

2009-05-06T23:07:00.003-05:00

well not really, just a reminded I need to hit the gym again!

Meanwhile, it has been a busy fabulous week here, only thing that was messing with plans is monsoon like rainstorms! Probably trying to catch up with the lack of snow we had this winter, but I am so glad it is finally sunny outside today and somewhat clear sky and look it is all so perky and green! That certainly sent us into frantic spring knitting, I know I have made 3 summer tops to wear so far!

Last Saturday I celebrated my birthday and in a very cool way that I wish many fiber obsessed people could! As this year's first weekend coincided with it and Maryland Wool and Sheep Festival was in order. So we ventured out, though it was rainy, the day itself ended up being really nice and warm, not incredibly sunny, but rain stayed out for the rest of Saturday. Friday, I have made my favorite recipe from Pioneer Woman Rum cake and I was very generous using Malibu rum in it, so I could bring the cake with me to the fairgrounds and share with my flickr/ravelry/blogging friends. Only thing I regret, I didn't take any pictures of it, but I am sure you get the idea! I will try to find some from the friends and show you here.

As hubby wandered off browsing the furry ones, I roamed the barns and guess what was my first purchase?! You'll never guess, but it is Habu. I know, it is crazy as it is not the yarn to buy at this kind of event, but I needed extra for something I am working on. Ravelry meet up gathered so many familiar faces, I can't believe it's been 3rd meet up since Ravelry making internet appearance and consuming our lives (in a fabulous kind of way!)

I got a chance to see so many people, but realized that I was camera-less at that point, so I have no documentation of that.
I had been lucky to spend some time showing Ysolda around DC as little as I knew, so we visited Louise Bourgeois exhibit at Hirschhorn which left me pretty thoughtful and yet trying not be afraid of spiders anymore, as artists actually sees them as guardians.. very intriguing, to be honest.
This mirror installation encouraged to be explored, it was really dark and no flash allowed, so I took a snap shot while inside.

It happened that Pam was still in the area, so we got a chance all to catch up and Elspeth had also joined us for a lunch and National Museum of American Indian, which is this cool building in Capitol proximity and their cafe serves traditional food from all over Americas. After lunch Pam caught a flight back home and I already miss her and I when you are in a company of talented knitterly ladies, believe me creativity juice is in excess here! Just wait till we all get together in Rhinebeck this fall.

We also took a knitting break to finish up on some of the wips.

Ysolda was having a trunk show at Knit Happens this Wednesday and was it fun!!! Just look how adorable is she, no wonder sometimes people think she is a real fairy!
I snuck some pics from Mai from that evening.

Ysolda wearing Little Birds and Ishbel beret and I am wearing Shetland Triangle made in Malabrigo lace gifted to me by Vanessa about a year ago.

There is nothing better than being a goof around..while modeling Vivian.

OMG, they killed Kenny..

:: kenzo fall 2009 ::

2009-04-24T20:46:00.003-05:00

I just came across this and had to share, this is amazing...

:: decisions ::

2009-04-24T20:11:00.004-05:00

Sonia Rykiel Spring 2009

Can't wait to make and wear it?! In that case follow the model above, love the ball of yarn glued to the little stool dragging behind her (knitting on the go as the ultimate!)

Sometimes decision on the next project is hard. With excess of knitting patterns available online and [Thank God!] Ravelry making that it project of a moment is making your choices limitless, just pick a yarn in stash or pick a garment, whichever comes first. Nowadays, I rarely buy yarn without a project in mind [it tooks months to learn self-restraint, believe me], but I always find myself making one that would complement my wardrobe of that season. Now I am in a dire need of summer knit tees as my mom , after seeing some of my old ones, decided it is time for her to wear them.. and I really didn't need them. With this case resolved it gave me room, but not time, to replenish that empty part with newly designed or good oldies.. With a strike of my luck, Angela gifted me this Artyarns Hana silk that she hated working with.. in this gorgeous Electric/Peacock blue, which at first sight didn't want to become anything. But as it set on my desk, I remembered that my dear Pinkina has disappeared after a trip to TNNA in January 08 and I have no idea when it took place - hotel or those luggage inspectors in the airport, it is gone and I am sad as it was my last project worked on while leaving FL. Sigh... Not to reminiscent, so this gorgeous silk is on its way into Electrina/Peacockina or whatever one can name (as I am actually sipping on Orangina soda). I can't wait to finish it now, it looks great and I am about 75% through.

And what is next ? I pulled out some patterns and old issues of mags and is still on a hunt for those perfect light knit tanks/tops for scorching summer wear here... Summer knitting is hard, some can't justify it, some still prefer knitting warm garments inside with their A/C on, but I always find useful to keep that cardigan around for a chilly night and layering tops is just a style right up my alley. Plus one won't believe it, but linen and cotton tops can be worn in cold weather, just like I did last winter. With a thin turtleneck under them!

So what would you be knitting this summer? I am always curious to see if anyone in Summer knits already..
I can't wait, they promise 88F this weekend and pool is not filled yet! =(

:: pints and purls ::

2009-04-23T09:30:00.002-05:00

Karida Collins and Libby Bruce, who I met upon moving to VA, over a year ago they offered me to contribute to this fun book they were putting together. It is all about social knitting. Read: knitting in a restaurant or a bar. Book is not only filled with knitting projects but also tons of advice and tips on such occasions, like which drinks would stain and what are necessary projects to keep in your notions bag. And it is just a fun read!

Two of my contributions are shown below.

This is Drunken sweater, it hasn't been made while being in such condition or had any substance spilled all over it. Only reason named so as the name seemed to be appropriate to for the asymmetry of armholes. And it is very wearable though may seem uncomfortable at first sight. I made it using yummy Shibui Merino Alpaca yarn in Wasabi that turned this sweater in a perfect comfortable winter wear. And I am the one who is always cold.

Front

Back

Haramaki Belt warmer came as this universal garment ( and yes many who know me, I am all about versatility). Actually, Haramaki is a part of a samurai attire that would protect the wearer as it would be stuffed with iron. Not much related to that, but more common use was to keep warm as in Japanese culture is thought that heat is concentrated around your belly area, so keeping it warm would make entire body stay warm. Recently, they have made a comeback in fleece and I have decided to give my own take on it. Can be worn as a wide belt or corset like garment, or pulled down to keep your hips warm, it is suggested to be worn on top of your clothes [on top of jeans/pants , under jacket] and fun pattern makes it a cool accessory. When I got the it back, I tried it again and pulled it up and Laura suggested it as a boob tube for those who can pull it off or even easier one - a cowl. It all worked great! To me, simple tube and mission on versatility accomplished.

It has been made using Neighborhood Fiber Co Watershed yarn in 2 colors and short-rowed garter stitch to create this fun colorwork.

Last week, Knit Happens held a Authors' Book Signing Party where Holly, Karida and I were signing our patterns in the book (and also most of the contributors are local from around DC area). That was such a fun evening with many delicious cupcakes and even whiskey to boot! (eek!) I want to thank everyone who stopped by and said hello or got a copy! Happy knitting and Socializing (this time i spelled it right) ;-)

Rest of pics of the event here.

P.S. note to self-gosh I need a haircut!

:: last year ::

2009-04-20T16:47:00.011-05:00

To catch up on the last year's end.. and trying to concentrate on only positive!

I have

... taught some Marines how to knit for Marines and helped who wished to donate helmet liners for our troops.

... went to Stitches East in Baltimore. Where I met Mia again and Kate Gagnon of Zeitgeist yarns and Kelbourne woolens fame.

...met Tim Gunn in a private brunch and had a chance to attend a runway show where he presented.

... hung out with Stefanie Japel when she was in the area for her Glam Knits book signing.

And I have knit.... [DRUMROLL, please]... this is where it comes to a CONTEST!!
It is all easy - guess the number of the garments I have knit/crochet in the past year of 2008...when I have calculated the number, it made my fingers twitch a little.. by far it was the most productive year. But you never know what a new year can bring, right? Wish lists are impossibly long!

Just leave me a comment on what would be your guess for that digit and your email address in it. Because, of course there is a fiber-y and goodie prize to win! Have fun!

Contest entries will close at 1:00am EST Sunday, April 26, 2009.

:: backlogging ::

2009-04-17T23:00:00.003-05:00

So many of you probably wondering, have been out for such a long time, what might she possibly be up to?
Certainly, knitting, every single day and designing, and planning, and hoping for more time, and for my hands to stay happy so they would still allow me to do it in the future. I have knit literally piles of this time I was absent... [with exception of one month or so]. It seemed that many of knitters took their attention to Ravelry and Flickr and other social networks and devote rest of it for knitting, but not blogging. I can certainly relate, after some time it becomes a chore to keep everyone updated through the blog. SO I have came out with a solution for myself and I very much hope it works out for me. Because I love sharing!

In this coming week and further you will be exposed to various projects finished and coming on so I can catch up and share all the excitement! Also I see new designs, events, guest blogging and a contest in the future month, so keep up to make sure you get to participate and win some fiber-y goodness!

:: new knits ::

2009-03-02T10:52:00.004-05:00

New knits - not made by me, though my backlog probably outdone quantity of 20ies.. knitting a lot these day and past days. Last year was such an antagonizing trip that it certainly made me abandon and forget this poor blog, which I very much missed! Hope some people are still reading... anyway. I will try to update every single thing has been happening in my knit world!

To start with, runways are up for Fall/Winter next year and Matthew Williamson made my day today in his collection for Pucci, this sweater is a mini wearable version of Sandra Backlund's creations or so it seems!

Photos via Style.com

:: new ways ::

2008-11-14T22:25:00.004-05:00

Pristine Smut

I have stumbled on this
article today through jc report.

:: something new ::

2008-11-06T18:03:00.005-05:00

VPL

Rick Owens

This what appeals to me a lot recently, clothing that moves as you wear it and has so much character of its own!
To make up for a long silence, more cool content is coming up,can you tell I was Busy?

:: smile ::

2008-10-14T11:09:00.002-05:00

Via Comics

:: piece of me ::

2008-09-02T09:33:00.008-05:00

As we got some chill in the air last week here... some of you may have noticed that on a sidebar I have a new feature now. Recently, I have paired up with Knit-a-gogo Company (and its owner Danielle Romanetti)along some other teachers to offer classes in Greater Washington DC Area. What does this mean? "Creme de la creme" of classes in the area!
I have a list of classes being offered in various locations, some in DC and most of them at Knit Happens yarn store at historic Old Town Alexandria, VA. I am thrilled about these because they have been handpicked and thought over numerous days: for what knitters out there like to learn these days and what is really we can teach not to bore you! I haven't mentioned it before, but by training I am a teacher of English, so teaching is not something new to me.
Knitting, crochet, broomstick lace, entrelac, jewelry, fair isle, intarsia as well as runway knitting... I do take pleasure if sharing the tricks of the ancient craft with others if you are willing to learn or just curious! Afterall discovering something new to yourself is an intimate moment of celebration, no matter how big or small your achievement is, it would always keep you hungry for trying out more exciting things!

Runway knitting , Fair Isle , Entrelac Bag Classes previews...

You can easily sign up for either of these and many more on Knit-a-gogo website

Also there is a following of Knit-a-gogo Groupies on Ravelry.
Danielle has made it possible for knitters not only hang around learning and knitting at your favourite cafe or restaurant, but she is the best "go to person" if you want to have a knitterly party/shower/retreat!!!

To let you know I am also available for private tutoring in the area, please inquire through the email on the sidebar.

On the knitting news for me.. 6 projects at the same time is not challenging enough I thought.. I didn't even sing up for Ravelympic... so I have pulled this Labor Day weekend to finish up some of them, make them or break (frog) them, but I do owe some new photos of some... it feels with the first day of Fall my needles should switch into the Turbo mode and stop procrastinating!..
Please, let some force give me patience and more hours of the week!

:: josefina lar ::

2008-08-15T13:43:00.004-05:00

:: Serapo Hat ::

2008-08-12T10:25:00.007-05:00

It may be still summer, but already August, it will be cooling down here in no matter of time... Last spring I had a terrific experience working with Pear Tree Yarns for a design of this slouch hat. I know the colors of it reminiscent my Palisel Hat, but when Sue (of PTY) saw it she was thrilled and wanted me to design one of a kind with their yarns.
You see a hat, but this project is filled with techniques used: Intarsia, Various textures, short-rows, Kitchener stitch, picking up stitches, working in around. We, knitters, all come in different categories and learn those techniques on various occasions and a small project like this can be pretty rewarding.

Pattern Information

Skill Level
Intermediate

Pattern Information
Sizes Small (Large)
To fit head size: 20 (22)"
Finished hat circumference: 18.5 (21.75)"
Finished hat length including brim: 12.75"

Yarn
1 skein Pear Tree 4 ply Merino Yarn (100% merino wool; 215 yds per 100 g skein) in Sienna
1 skein Pear Tree 4 ply Shades of Alpaca Yarn (50% merino, 50% alpaca; 215 yds per 100 g skein) in Sand
1 skein Pear Tree 4 ply Shades of Alpaca Yarn (50% merino, 50% alpaca; 215 yds per 100 g skein) in Clay

Needles
Size 6 (4 mm) straight needles
Size 6 (4 mm) circular needle (16" long) or dpn

Other Materials
darning needle
scrap yarn
stitch markers

Gauge
22 sts and 36 rows in 4" over St st

Price: USD 6.00
Pattern is a .pdf format file, 2 pages.
Size 341KB

Purchase through Ravelry

Use buttons below to purchase (if you don't have Ravelry access)

For wholesale information please contact me at jasminedotolearyatgmaildotcom

You can find more pictures through here

I want to express special thanks to my photographer and layout designer, fellow friend and a blogger Vanessa Yap/coloursknits for her help as well as Alexandria Virgiel for tech. editing the pattern and Pear tree yarns for their fabulous yarns!

Sue, the owner of Pear Tree Yarn company has a store in Torquay, Australia, where her company has started out from. I hope this would be one of my point of destinations if I ever go to visit Oz!
My flickr and Habu partner in crime, Kirsten of assemblage blog fame, has got these pictures for me when she was visiting that area last! Thank you!
So here is the store itself... regardless the size, I must assure you, their yarns are just fabulously soft and pleasure to work with!

As Sue has explained to me, the mill that produces their yarns is using old type of machinery and that is why their yarns come with a handspun look. Here is a wall of heaven!

:: chanel your mind ::

2008-08-12T10:15:00.002-05:00

Cruise collection from Chanel hit the internet a while back, but as always, detailing and now more on construction from Karl makes us drool!

Chanel Cruise 2009

:: seriously? ::

2008-07-12T21:17:00.004-05:00

Maison Martin Margiela suggests.. why bother knitting at all?...

Just use yarn as a wrap and it is Haute Couture...
or if knit... use some shirt sleeves and (tights?) Man is genius! At least I have never seen something like that before...

Whole collection video here

:: FLOGS ideas? ::

2008-07-10T21:57:00.005-05:00

Over a year ago Anthropologie had this piece for sale.. now VS has fuchsia one on sale.
I love the idea of the sideways short-rows to create the flare cardi or a pullover... may be the first fall knit now? Love that it is solid, seams free and a round yoke...mmmm! Simplicity sometimes has so much appeal to it..

But I was also considering making a garter stitch allover jacket.. with a solid circular yoke, I partially blame Kirsten of assemblage referring to Habu jacket.. though it is very tempting for the gradation being soo in coming season, I must think twice before using Tsumugi.. it is warm as wool, but would it have the effect I aim for.. (fyi japanese women are tiny, so that is why this jacket looks a bit loose on her).

photo by Ava

So now I am on a hunt for it.. and I am very tempted to use EZ yoke sizing percentage system just to make one.. bottom up or top down, doesn't really matter. Have 15 skeins of beautiful dark navy Laines du Nord Korall scored on sale last Fall at Knit Happens and stash knitting continues...

Here are some other versions...

Any thoughts on that, please!

:: couture theatre ::

2008-07-09T20:54:00.006-05:00

Tastes like couture designers had alien ship come down and fuel their creativity with such.. or is that it? The fashion of the future.. excess of silky flowing fabrics and textures on top of each other... well most of it just for entertainment.. show.. so enjoy and get inspired. This is what they mostly intend to...

Jean Paul Gaultier has an interesting knit thingy going on, hard to read though..

This collection was pretty interesting..

To post 1 image of Chanel is nothing of course.. better go and see it in whole..
This dress has me drooling, detail, curve, pleating (smocking?).. I would wear it in 90 degree weather if I had it...

:: designing spree ::

2008-07-06T14:41:00.018-05:00

I think it is that time of the year, when designs are being let out to publicity and critics is eagerly accepted... Last January I have met many wonderful people of the industry at TNNA, somehow through others I got to meet loveliest Kim Werker (whose ancestry by the way is from Minsk, Belarus, country that I come from), the amazing editor of Interweave Crochet, who fell in love with my knit designs on a display of a Neighborhood Fiber Company (apparently made in the named company's yarns) and she requested if I could design something in crochet. Luckily, I do crochet, otherwise it would be pretty hard to accomplish crocheting with knitting needles. To dip my toes into the Interweave waters, here is a tiny little piece of crochet jewelry Tear Drop Necklace, which I really like and would so wear myself.. like the Chained link necklace that I had crochet couple years back.

Photo credits Interweave Crochet

It is an excellent stash buster for those kinds of yarn:
~ You may only have one of
~ It is so expensive you can't bring yourself to buying enough of it for something bigger
~ You just don't want to use the precious yarn as you fear it would be poorly showcased.
All of the above!

So where else to show it off better than on your neckline. Many of you out there are scared of "C" word, believe me crochet only seems hard, in fact it is easier that knitting. As a teenager, I used to do that more than knitting for it's portability and quick result.

Queue it on Ravelry.

Cabled cowl came to life after I had a chance to pet the divine Suri Merino of Blue Sky Alpacas... and get a chance to meet Sylvie, BSA Creative Director.

Cowl is a new scarf upcoming fall, they are in all sizes and patterns all over the runway, I have chosen to show this yummy yarn in various size cable and basketweave, the ribbing is worked on one edge and an incorporated i-cord is worked on the other.
The buttons were a gift from far-away Australian friend Alison, those are coconut and the way closure is made allows you take control of your styling in the cowl.
It is 4 buttons, 2 buttonholes, 2 big buttons are joint with 2 small plain buttons and can be placed anywhere through the knit fabric of the cowl. Now I wish I had more of that yarn to make something deliciously warm and soft for myself!

Photo credits BSA

Queue it on Ravelry.

Click here to view design close-up.

Some of you inquired where to get the pattern already, as it is New!
I found two places online so far to get it, one of it is to get a kit.
KPixie.com

Fabulousyarn source

Jimmy Beans source

Also I was told store Nina in Chicago already has the pattern in.

ETA: In case you couldn't find a pattern for yourself in either of the places above, check in my etsy.

And there is more of Finished objects and finished designs awaiting editing... my needles are on fire regardless the 90 degree weather, I just hope the motivation and the muse keep up with my slowish pace... I have recently finished Witterings Hat which is perfect for upcoming vacation (oh, pleeeease come soon) and also, Stella coat from almost 2 years ago finally saw the light and is being polished off with finishing touches as I type this. I can finally wear it.. and may be hate/love it?! Will see, till then knit, knit, knit and may be crochet!

BTW, wanted to wish you All Happy 4th of July, I hope there was lots of BBQ, beers and corn on a cob!! It rained here, so all of the above had to be done indoors, boo-hoo.

:: Nymphadora Scarf ::

2008-05-27T22:10:00.003-05:00

A new pattern for a scarf, very simple, but I have gotten some requests for row and stripe count, so here is a pattern for those interested. Enjoy!

Download here (.pdf file) 81kb

::deal with it::

2008-05-06T12:25:00.006-05:00

What to do when your knitting mojo is wandering around somewhere... and spring is already here.. or even summer in some places.. and all you want to think is cotton, linen cami and shirts and a lacy flirty skirt to knit.. I am going back to my crafty friend- sewing machine for a fabric affair.
Almost a year ago when me and Vanessa went to NYC I had acquired this pattern and fabric at Purl Patchwork for a Day in a Park Backpack by Liesl Gibson of disdressed blog.
I must admit, the pattern and the instructions are very helpful and explicit, but it is by far very sophisticated sewing project for me in the amount of finishing that it takes.. I wish I had a walking foot to make my top stitching perfect, but it is not that bad as I thought. And I would definitely like to make this pattern again, it a transformer bag which I love. And lovely Echino Bee Fabric by Estuko Furuya.

As a tote

As a backpack

More pictures are here

And as I was out with that, I remembered that all the way last spring I was very much thrilled by a Yohji Yamamoto pattern from Showstudio, so that long ago I have printed the pattern out in Kinkos and it was waiting for its time, once on a trip at G-street fabrics, I have come across some suitable material I thought would work for it. It is a knit viscose and lycra, heavy for a pefect drape and smooth at the same time.
The pattern only has 2 pieces to cut and rest is just origami-like construction.

It took a while for me to understand.. one has to play with a paper model to put some sense into it, but again.. this jacket is transformable as well.. see for yourself below. I have honestly found fascinating the Janus-like clothing.. you do not have a need to own 2, but 1 and be absolutely happy with it. Should I blame my Habu addiction for that? I am more thankful though..

That is absolutely amazing and I feel more and more inclined to experiment...
So both Pattern Magics in a hand, an open head for endless opportunities.. and as for the knitting.. it would be re-invigorated in no matter of time...
Also while searching, I have came across a better and new Burdastyle website, which is my new favorite, soo many talented folks in there sharing sewing patterns only a click away.

Small project from there...
To ensure one's beaty sleep:
Echino with a Bee
Flax seed
Lavender oil

:: not so secret any more ::

2008-03-31T23:48:00.012-05:00

Back in December I have gotten a chance to work on a garment for lovely ShiBui Knits. So it was a secret project under name "Okinawa Blouse", that's what I had christened the sketch... I thought an somewhat appropriate name for the whole philosophy behind the company. The design was pretty easy-peasy, I had a plan laid out on how and what I am going to do it, my blurry mind had done some accidental felting done to half of the sample, when it was about 95% done, but I have redone the oops! in miraculous 2 days. And finally when it was accepted and approved with a compliment seal from lovely ShiBui folks in PDX, I happily moved on. But it made me blush a little inside when I saw it on the Runway of the Fashion Show at TNNA in Long Beach this past January as friends sitting near me approved. The processed and finished pattern is called The Gatsby Sweater and can be purchased at ShiBui Knits.

Modeled by lovely Sarah of www.bluegarter.org

Here you can view the video of that part of the Fashion Show. The announcers totally got caught off-guard on how complex name reading can be.. and as the first garment you see is Veronique's Transparency Sweater from Sensual knits and the next is The Gatsby Sweater. There was a little mix-up, that's why she was sent down the isle twice... :D

And yes I am working on more all kinds of secret projects.. but still get a chance to steal a minute to ... sew and knit some gifts!
I guess it is that time of the year and I just wanted to get something to keep the variety... it is almost Spring here, not exactly yet, but Hanami Festival started 3 weeks earlier than usual... so the Hanami shawl (well rather scarf with petals on both ends) I have started working on.. may have to wait for the next year.. will see how that goes, meanwhile, wonderful Magnolias are in bloom around the house, so pouring some spring into the house....

:: fairy in the forest ::

2008-03-31T15:44:00.004-05:00

One would think the bulky knits are not here to stay.. with global warming, Hanami festival starting 3 weeks earlier than usual, heat of 90 degrees almost every day...
who would want all this massiveness.. on the contrary, bulky is all over again for the fall/winter next year and those huge oversized knits as well...
I stumbled upon this pretty photo session, unfortunately don't know the name of the photog...

:: time to show :: 3 at a time ::

2008-03-14T00:30:00.016-05:00

It has been months since I showed off my Habu explorations, as it seems to be the only projects/yarn/concept I am being drawn to in between my deadline projects..
I am... I have accumulated 3 finished Habu garments.. shame on me, heee.. well. I just didn't have time.. I wrote a huge post... clumsy me, hit something on the keyboard and it was gone.. sometimes this happens, but at that moment I was almost done, so pulling my hair out or just yelling some words to my non-russian speaking cat.. didn't fix it.

So here that goes..

The first is a long time "yo-yo" cocktail commute project, it all has started from Vanessa sending me some leftover caramel colored Rowan KSH.. I added some test skeins of Habu Silk Mohair A-32b and there you have it.. a Nymphadora Scarf.. it is super long.. just like I wanted.. at one point I was about to toss it into a washing machine to perform some hazelnut stuffed shibori, overlooked at Nicky Epstein's Knitting never felt better, but then.. I haven't decided on it yet.. it is simple, yet cute, starting with frequent striping transitioning into wider ones. So I need a public opinion for once: Should I or should I not proceed?

And then there is a kit I got.. and long time wanted, ever since Isel pointed out the fabulousness of it while paging through my copy of Setsuko Torii's Hand-Knit works. Though I have knit a skirt before, it was a little worrying me how the silk would look and behave while worn around one's behind!
I didn't have any help on taking a decent photo, so self-timer on the edge of my balcony was the best friend for time being..
Here is a triptych, click on either to zoom

Habu Textiles
Gradation Tsumugi Skirt : kit-102: A-1, 5 or 6 colors triple stranded and wound in 10 variations in mini skeins (come ready to knit in a kit): charcoal: US 7 (4.5mm) needle: 30" of 1/2" black elastic.

This skirt became a success because I had a great buddy in face of Julianne (Ravelry link), who was making this skirt at the same time (she is actually making also a habu mohaired skirt as well!), so we got connected and figured it out together, we had to email Takako once. As usual she was very helpful and it was all cleared out. Printed english pattern had some typos, but it felt good about putting some idle brain cells to work. J apanese patterns are all about math afterall. I will be posting some tutorial-like on the corrections and modifications I did to this design on Habu KAL shortly.

I have eliminated seaming, by doing provisional cast on and grafting it to the end of the fabric after and did a casing with elastic instead of drawstring, just by knitting extra fabric and turning it into a hem.
And eliminated doing 2 parts of the yoke, by just picking up and knitting garter stitch in a round, but still doing the decreases along the sides indicated by strategically placed markers. The least favorite part- it took about 2 hours and tons of patience just to weave in those zillion of ends, but in the end I saw how it improved the sturdiness of the bottom edge.
The skirt before blocking looked like an elongate mini.. and original is shown in your mid-calf, I am not a model height, so just below the knee was the right length and I wasn't blocking it to the original measurements. But, seriously, if you are taller and need longer skirt, it will block out , plus it is silk and in a skirt gravitation power would still pull it down.

The next was a secret gift.. which I can reveal today, Happy Birthday, Vanessa! It is my Birthday gift for her!

It is linen paper A-60 from Habu again, in two colors used for A Chinese Style Pullover aka kit-89. I have used the pattern from my book and US 9 needle, though next time I make it I may try it on recommended US 10 (6mm).
I love how airy and noisy this project was and is as a garment. Kirsten of assemblage fame pointed it out, this is a musical garment at some point.. so who needs a fireplace with crackling firelogs? Just get one of those and you kill two birds at the same time!
I hope V enjoys wearing it! It is perfect for steamy summers, as you get style and breeze constantly!

more news and projects coming soon, they are all ready for blogging, just need to acquire some decent pictures.

::mcqueen the king ::

2008-02-29T18:11:00.002-05:00

I must only show this one, because till this point there was nothing that close to pure inspiration and exposure of genious on the runway this season...
Alexander McQueen F/W 2008-2009

::: sunday sunday :::

2008-02-24T00:58:00.018-05:00

Even weather knows when it is Sunday. Most of those days there is sunshine in the morning and if we are lucky as well in the afternoon.
But the funniest noise I woke today up to was the sound of a dancing bowl on a tile kitchen floor created by the cat, he decided to do his own dish(es) in protest of me sleeping in and demanding a brunch. Today even he slept in.. rare sunny days in winter envigorate... last sunday there was a baking day some green tea and chocolate infested muffins (cupcakes?)

There really quick I had Ava over and we have almost inhaled those and knit some.

While we are at a green I absolutely have to show off my new knee high socks, that were generously and elaborately made for me by Priscilla of Knit Buddies fame. I know.. spoiled rotten, those are cashmere silk Prada inspired knee highs.. if you remember my post back, but she took it to the heart... WOW time!

Matching shoes kinda, Miu Miu at 20$ bargain of DSW.. 2-3 years ago, I dream for more of those!

Some knits that I actually can show off.. was made in 1 day, yesterday..
May be I am the last person on Earth to make that hat, my first at it was a somewhat fiasco.
So here, take #2!

And this is today, us on our little Sunday Morning... taking in some sun as Spring is already just around the corner!

Pattern: Koolhaas Hat by Jared Flood
Yarn: Elsebeth Lavold Silky Cashmere, color silver, 3 skeins.
Yarn Source: from Anna at www.yarnbow.com this yarn was half regular price, instant love!
Needles:
US 6 for cable cast on and ribbing
US 8 for the rest of the hat.

I don't know about you, but this song recently got a second life in Wes Anderson's (fellow Teaurean) The Darjeeling Limited and Hotel Chevalier...
It is so very nice.. can't stop playing this lovely 60ies tune.

And I want to thank each and every one of you for your kindest comments and wishes of luck! All of those are very much in demand! All I can say I am buried in work right now and I love it! More knitting designs, YEY!

:: aftertaste ::

2008-02-16T00:59:00.004-05:00

... sometimes whenever life happens, it takes you like a river through different banks, turns, currencies and underwater streams.. so in life we are to stay true to ourselves, to stand behind the decisions we have made on the way and justify them in case when life introduces new circumstances and not regret them later... it is opposite of knitting, where whatever you do , you can always redo it or find a way to fix it somehow.
Those helping passages in life of good friendship, a kind advice, a timely introduction, strike of luck and other little chain of events get you to become more thankful and evolve.. with higher goals and hopes for improving yourself in areas that need improvements. And every day is filled with decisions, routine and those of a higher matter. Today I am moving on, for better or worse, for more challenging and scary at the same time, hoping to carry out as much experience possible and not without the support of my loved ones. Another stage, which will need a lot of effort and self-discipline to be worked on, I just hope with it .. I am to be better person as well.

:: land of onesies::

2008-02-14T14:02:00.003-05:00

You get to realize that you have probably been knitting so much that even cat gets it that it is your job.. It actually dawned on me when woken up this morning by a phone call I got to discover that my rascal kitty brought a hank of yarn to me in bed.(Happy Valentine's to me I guess!) And it is not for the first time, I remembered that had happened before, I just didn't pay much attention to it.. Oh Knitting Gods, you gave me such a witty cat, that even he tells me to stop sleeping and get to work! LOL!
And the more you get projects to knit, the more creative your mind gets on how to squeeze in a knit here and there in between deadlines.. so I found myself in the LAND OF ONESIES.. Small projects or not.. they only get to have one of such...
one legwarmer, one glove, one armwarer, one panel of a pullover, one part of a skirt, one sleeve of a cardigan.. and there is another armwarmer, that actually got a mate last night. So 6 of onesies.. I feel I need guidance (from a cat possible, if he got to grow so smart), on how to make those things some mates.. But at the same time, does it actually matter that I have other 2 FO's produced within a week? May be the ethics of Knitting universe actually can permit me to slack on those projects.. they are for me anyway...
Here are some pictures of those..

:: dudes sent wild ::

2008-02-04T23:05:00.000-05:00

Oh, the endless internet... see what I found in knitting department for men... John Galliano.. he went back in centuries and Vivienne... that is totally wrong Hairpin Lace Sweater for a dude in a cowboy hat.. from series on what NOT to knit for your BF/DH!

:: 2 months or 2 years ::

2008-02-03T13:35:00.000-05:00

Yeah, first it was a lot of work, then Xmas shopping/crafty gift making.. then Holidays themselves that were hurriedly followed by TNNA prep. (I have never made 2 sweaters in 1 week before!), then TNNA itself which was a total blast! Not to mention how many people I have finally got to meet in person and make new acquaintances.. it was all so productive! Though being back in SoCa didn't feel as exciting as I have anticipated, it is all same, no matter how many years went by.. and then upon arrival I got sick for 2 weeks...
I have missed my 2 year blogging anniversary, missed mentioning that I have made about 40 garments in the past year.. and upcoming year is even more promising, work never diminishes, does it! Well, Knit knit knit..crochet.. all of it!
Some of the garments finished, I still can't show, some I already forgot when I made them, because I have worn them quite a bit since then!

I can start with Twinkle...
I got a chance to chat with Wenlan Chia herself and got a new book from her all signed. She is so much more adorable in person! Yes, some garments from older and a new book were at the show.. i was so curious , so I tried to poke around and try even trying them on.. also I got some news that there is going to be a new 3rd book by Twinkle called Town and Country.
Meanwhile, my finished garments.. of Skating sweater that went to live with my friend in Philly, as I absolutely hated it on myself. And he is size 0 so it just belongs to her now. Then it states that up to this day I don't own a single knit garment made in black... oh, well , no regrets here!
3 skeins of Twinkle soft chunky in black, US 19 circular needle.

And the Tea Rose Halter I made all the way back in September..
The yarn was Twinkle Cruise in Cranberry scored on sale at $4 per skein.
Took 8 skeins, US 11 and two evenings. I has this unique layering effect and though being bulky still makes it unusual! Whether it is summer or winter outside, I can still wear it!

There is much more to talk about and much more to write, but where is that little shop that sells time for folks who are in desperate need of such?...
I have no idea why I am not reading much blogs or much blog myself, I think life taking over and I am sure it is not ravelry's fault either... BTW...they were the stars of the show!

I just hope there will be more exciting things to see... Like NYC fashion week has already started, but it is bothering me to no end the excess of black on it..again... unfortunately that color doesn't make me entirely happy or inspires me... some early knits have already sprung up in Nicole Miller's collection. But I must say much much more of the last year's trends still were carried over into this coming season.. helmet-type hats, one-sleeve things, black and balloon sleeves.

Stella McCartney Pre-Fall 2008

Oscar De La Rent Pre-Fall 2008

all photos are from style.com

BTW, For those who follow Project Runway .. crazy spitting on fabric Elisa was showing during NYC Fashion week today.
Malan Breton from previous season is showing this coming Wednesday and Alexandria Vidal from Season 1 will be showing as well. so curious!

:: hiatus ::

2007-11-20T23:12:00.000-05:00

A month hiatus, I must apologize, but it has been very very busy here. Getting into new order of getting around while knitting for deadline and finishing up other things on the needles and having all these exciting events going around me. I really have finished quite a bit. I guess stealing a moment here and there to produce somewhat knitted/sewn.

I have started watching Grey's from season 1 and on to current, something to listen/watch to while I knit... as nailbiting and very thrilling episodes rolled one by one I have pulled something I craved working on for a while. Vanessa gave me this gorgeous Malabrigo for my birthday that I knew I had to turn into a sweater that I wear every day as this buttery merino is out of this World, from the other part of the World actually-Uruguay! Too bad the color is not grey for the namesake and speed I made this sweater partially thanks to that show. But I adore this Orchid. (cough, need to stop with purples, cough)

And what knit picture without a piece of a cat!

Materials: 5 Skeins of Malabrigo Worsted in Orchid
Pattern: Bubble Sweater from Knitting Nature book by Norah Gaughan, size Small.
Needles: US 7 Addi Turbo 24" circular and US 7 DPN.
7 buttons in perfect matching color from G-Street Fabrics in Falls Church, VA.
Time to make: slow 1 week and 1 week of non-stop knitting.
Modifications: I have switched to thinner yarn and smaller needles than suggested as wanted this sweater to be more tapered. So you honestly wouldn't know how the sweater would fit you till you are done with it. Working pentagons was fun, I opted to doing provisional casts-on with auxilary thread , unraveling and picking the stitches after, so I got no pick up lines on top of regular cast on edges, just clean knit fabric.
Result: Love warmth and softness! I would totally knit it again, Norah's pattern keeps you so entertained with construction. And can never say no to Malabrigo. Though it pills, but there is no such a thing as yarn of obsolete perfection.

And more knits are yet to be shown... I will try to write out more progress and photos.
Meanwhile while you all travel to join in the celebration of the holidays, I want to wish you all

:::::::::::Happy Thanksgiving!:::::

:: what else is new? ::

2007-10-20T17:02:00.000-05:00

Thank you kindly guys for your compliments on my Jolien and I hope you will find the schematic tips useful as well. As the things keep being busy out here... nevertheless we (regular gang of Isel and Paloma and me) got a chance to go to Stitches East Show last weekend..and it certainly doesn't feel it was only a week ago .. more like a month ago. AS we had tons of fun visually bathing in yarn and meeting other knitters like us, with a little bit over the board..hm, yes, obsessed. One could see me running to the Habu booth or briskly walking as my hub would say.
But I wasn't the first, but gahhh, so many samples this time, not much yarn, but petting it and digging and happy dancing inside.. I know I probably make some of you jealous inside. But I am honestly starting to think that I need to spread the LOVE=HABU worldwide! Like Australian stores need to start carrying their stuff and Europe needs to get more of their stock as well, because I certainly don't know what I would have done.. That same weekend was a Stitches show in UK in Alexandria Palace, where Habu booth was a total hit and to my understanding was sold out pretty fast!

Isel and Paloma were rolling there eyes every time in the middle of our stroll among other booths I would stop and say I need to go back... I just needed to get my fix, that's it.
And after endorphines kicked in I jumped Minty which probably scared her (I was scared for her later, Habu fix i swear), what a blast finally meet her, she was shopping for Pam. It does feel weird like, oh I can touch you now... or you speak of someother people like you know them already, it's all good though, knitting does unite people! It was very fun!
My recollection of the rest is a bit dim, I just remember I saw some Malabrigo lace Isel picked up after we were gifted with little mini skeins of such from company itself.. so why be original.. me and Paloma copycatted Isel. Those we liked other colorways as well (joint purchase later, Palomita!) So we all now have such Yarn in Polar morn =) who said we can't be triplets?

So here is the haul and you can judge or not, I hope to get to making something with all of this quite soon (lets say in spring), I am mostly thrilled about 40 micron stainless steel, that has unknown yardage on the tag written, it's a carryalong yarn, but the possibilities... HA! I am psyched! All of this and rest of Habu is currently residing on top of my coffee table for inspiration.

Malabrigo Lace (100% baby merino) in Polar Morn

Lovely Vintage Buttons Haul and some Stone Pebble Buttons from artist Cheryl Kumiski.

And this was plenty for me, there were people with many many bags in there, even suitcases. But knowing how much I already have and lack of time to knit what it's out there.. I didn't go overboard.
Later we got other hunger to satisfy and I almost ate my Malabrigo lace mini skein, it was soooo fiberlicious!

Let's do it again!

:: Notes on Blueberry ::

2007-10-14T16:44:00.000-05:00

As I have promised some doodles on making of my Habu kit #100, seaming less and making it reversible.
So originally you are to make 10 pieces and seam them all up.

A little bit of brainstorm and instead of 10 we only make 4.
2 of which are pocket linings.
So you will have to cast on twice, both times from each cuff edge and placing marker in the middle (why? because there are increases to be made). You will technically make two parts of the top of the coat, but we join them in the back by weaving/grafting so it is one!

And when the whole top part is knit and assembled and seamed we can pick up the stitches all around the bottom of it. The longer the needle you are picking up/making the bottom of the coat - the better, so you could try it on multiple times in case you need to mess with the length (if not just put it on a couple of circular needles to try it on and see).

You make one nice long bind off which will be the bottom of your coat.

Each Pocket consists of 2 parts (so 4 parts for all pockets) in the original pattern: just do a provisional cast on and then put the stitches back on the needle and make the second part, fold it in half when seaming and attaching it to the coat. And don't forget to work the mirror decreases in them.

Not some much to brain afterall, the thing with japanese patterns is that the pattern is mostly numeric and when to some reason or circumstances the numbers and your gauge don't make sense follow the scheme by measurements this should always lead to success!
Have a question-ask away!

:: busy hands ::

2007-10-13T15:47:00.000-05:00

TO start I want to thank each and every one of you for the kindest comments on my Blueberry Coat, I tried replying to everyone, but still , not everyone's email is showing in the comments (don't I just hate that!), so the generic and GENEROUS THANK YOU ALL!!! And to reply many requests to explain how I have accomplished eliminating the extra seaming will be coming up tomorrow, in some doodles and sketching.. so sit tight!
Did I ever tell you my FO's come in pairs? Well, at the same time, even same day I have finished another project, which was born as usually out of air (ashes?).

Well, this has been my first Rowan pattern... yes I did run into lost in translation moments though I have been speaking/reading/writing in English for the past 16 years.. I christened this one "British Knittish" as it didn't make no sense to me.. Well I did email Rowan itself into their pattern help department and I got a zilch of a reply, thank God for good knitting friends who come to the rescue to a Rowan virgin. I originally was planning/getting this yarn for the Tangled Yoke Cardigan, I was about to jump the bandwagon, but changed my mind in the last minute, as it appeared noone knit up Jolien at that time.. I mean I googled through and looked up on Ravelry. So it was meant to become this.

:::::: JOLIEN ::::::

Pattern: Jolien from Rowan Studio 3
Yarn: Rowan Felted Tweed in Melody 6 skeins.(part of which was kindly gifted to me by Isel and other half scored on sale - so all yarn cost me only 32$)
Needles: US 5 (3,75mm) Addi Turbo 32" circular
Specs: Made in the smallest size (34-38), smaller than myself which apparently ended being able to fit a 40" bust pal.. Not cool, pissed off, I stuck into the washer poured in some Soak and put it on warm through a cycle with the regular laundry (in hearts thinking may be I will have to find some child to give it to) ayyy!! and went to bed. All bets are off!
Mods: I have made shoulder decreases by means of short rows on both sides on both pieces and to seam them up I grafted them together. As a result no ugly shoulder seams! That's always a plus.

Here it is..all knit up.. only seam and collar left.

My foot doesn't do the judgement much, but it was humongous as if it was made for someones boobs to run away through that batwing arch into the sleeves.. Somewhat felting it saved the day..who knew.. my idea was hmm, does Felted Tweed felt? Or it's called Felted tweed because it is not going to felt for sure now?? I heard that after handwashing garments made with it do stretch out... I guess it was a good call afterall.
My dear photographers I had couple laughts at me clowning around..

I give them my respect and thanks!!

In the past couple days it has drastically coolled off in NoVA and yesterday we all went to the Stitches East show in Baltimore. So it was a great chance to show off some new knits. I think this sweater was confirmed a success as I had people stopping by and admiring, asking and looking shockingly surpised that it's a Rowan pattern. I think I am starting a lovely relationship with Rowan =)

On the fashion front, the upcoming season SS2008 was superbad to my taste... some pieces are to reconsider, as usual Milan and Paris saved the day (season).

I have noticed this cool sweater cape a fellow knitter and taurean Uma Thurman was sporting, I love how she loves to incorporate knits into her wardrobe, if one kept an eye on her for a while, she is a knitwear fan. This piece is just uber.