9/2/2005
I’m making slow but sure progress on my Leaf Lace Shawl. I think I’m through three full repeats of the second (main) chart if I recall correctly (I don’t have the pattern sitting here so I can check my notes).
Despite having that and the never ending second sock on the needles I’m feeling the itch to start something else. Something that will be easier to knit in the dark in front of the TV. I think I may be swatching for the Wear-Everywhere Pullover from the Spring IK. It calls for a sport weight hemp, but I think I’m going to see how I like Cascade Sierra in the stitch pattern and then adjust the pattern. This just seems like a great pattern for me. It’s interesting, but dull enough for dark knitting. My favorite sweaters in my closet are ribbed turtleneck sweaters, so this will be a little more interesting and not so bulking around my neck. If I don’t like the Sierra I think I will seriously contemplate picking out a proper weight yarn to make it from. Though I don’t care to have it made from hemp. But, the largest size given will actually fit me properly I think - go figure! Could this perhaps be my first completed garment for myself???
I’ve also been spinning. I did some hand carding to blend 15g of turquoise, green, and yellow corriedale and spun it up into singles. I didn’t care to switch the wheel to plying as I now have about 1/2 of a bobbin of my merino/ecopolyester on it. So pics of that color blending will have to wait a bit as the center-pull ball doesn’t look that great. But it was fun - though a bit of a safe color combination. I think I’ll try something a little more adventurous next time.
I’m hoping to get inspired for a fun title graphic for the blog, but I think everything is working now and stuff won’t be changing other than the title. Please let me know if you run into any troubles with this new version and layout.
I rarely give voice to my political views here in this blog. But, before I get flamed by trolls for not saying my part concerning the devastation of hurricane Katrina, I’m going to say a few words here.
As much as I’m disappointed and heart broken by the reactions of some of those impacted directly by the effects of Katrina (looting, sniping, and rape???), I’m also uplifted and proud of those around the world who are stepping up to the plate and giving. I’m especially proud of my fellow knitters who are giving money, time, and prizes to the collaboration of Susan and Margene – Give a Little. If you haven’t given anything for the Katrina relief efforts yet perhaps that mighty fine list of prizes will entice you?
At the same time, I’m somewhat sadden that it takes such a massive destructive force to bring the nation and the world together and to get people to give. How many have only given of their time, talent or money after the Tsunami and now Katrina and perhaps around the holidays? I give somewhat regularily, but I think I can do better.
I urge everyone to evaluate their resources and give on a regular basis. Give locally, nationally and globally in some way if you can. Share what you can spare!
There are many ways for you to use your fiber-related talents to give…
You might also check with your local area battered women’s shelters or sheriff’s departments to see if they would be in need of knit stuffed animals or blankets for traumatized children or cold weather accessories for moms and kids. Or donate your time to teach them to knit and give them something to be proud of and lift their self-esteem! Many non-profits also have silent auctions for which they need goods and services to auction off so you could offer knit items or offer knitting lessons for small groups etc. The possibilities are endless!
If you are in the area, Textiles a Mano is organizing a stash exchange and knit where knit items will be sold at a holiday artisans sale with proceeds benefiting Harmony House, a family visitation center where supervised visitations and exchanges (custody/divorce) can occur within a warm, homelike atmosphere.
There are off course many other ways you can give beyond your fiber-related talents as well. So, please keep giving to the Katrina relief efforts, but continue to give the whole year around as well and help make this world a more giving and caring community.
Share what you can spare!
Now, I haven’t just been playing with my blog design and ruminating on ways to give. I’ve also been knitting lace and spinning while I’ve been thinking. So, next post we’ll return to the regularly scheduled programming of knitting and spinning.
