The Needle Abyss

My apartment is littered with knitting needles. I have a single DPN on the desk, a circular needle in the kitchen (not really sure why, though….) and many, many needles in the Clover case in the coffee table cubby. This is not including, however, needles in use, the needles in my yarn baskets, and the needles in my KIP bag. Something definitely needs to change.
I remember buying the Clover needle case. ( http://tinyurl.com/3c7vj7r ) “Finally! I can keep my needles organized!” Haha- wow. If anything, this case has hindered my needle organization. It was great when I first got it- a full three months into my knitting career, when I had maybe five sets of needles. But now that I’ve squeezed as many of the smaller ones into the 2inches by one inch case, but I don’t think I could get another size 2 in if I tried- let alone all of my needles over a size 8. Now that my needles are scattered across my apartment, I think its time to get creative.
The ideas listed in this article are only those of my own- I would love to know what my readers are doing to tame their needles! Be sure to comment and share your tips!

• The quilter method:
o This idea is based on the pattern I found in the Stitch n Bitch Handbook. It is essentially fabric sewn with mini pockets in order of size. Pretty- but not the best if you are new to the sewing machine.
• The excuse-to-knit-something-easy method:
o This method can be quite fun if you’re in need of some method knitting. Cast on enough stitches to give you a knitted width of about 16 inches. Knit with a sturdy yarn in garter stitch until it’s as long as you need. Sew a button on the cast on end and make a loop on the bind off end to give you a way to close it securely. Then, just poke the tip of the needle in about one inch from the edge to where it is under about 3 stitches, then again at the other end to hold it together. Repeat as necessary, then roll up and secure with the button for easy storage. I got this idea from one of my paintbrush kits. This can work for straight needles and circular needles, but you might want to loop the cord of the circs so it doesn’t get caught on anything while rolling.
• The shoebox/memory box/photo box/you get the point method:
o This one is great for people who have lots of storage space and lots of needles especially in the same size. Now, when I say shoebox I’m not talking about the Shape-Ups box or an 8 inch stiletto box. (Though those would work fantastically for circs!) I mean more along the lines of those comfy, cute-flats-I wear-to-the-grocery-store boxes. You can get boxes that are already pretty in the scrapbooking sections of most stores, or you can decorate your own if you don’t like having a bunch of shoeboxes where people can see them (Just paint them with a water based paint or decoupage them!). Make one box for every 2 sizes or so. You can keep sets together with the tiny rubber bands you get for hair, chopstick holders, and attached point protectors for easier access.
• The what-most-of-us-will-probably-do method (also known as the buy it method):
o Just buy it! You can buy pre-decorated boxes, pre-sewn versions of the quilter method, or use an old scarf for the excuse-to-knit-something-easy method, assuming you have a scarf that is wide enough.

Remember- the knitter that organized knitter is the happy knitter. Knit happy!

The Fiber Files (by Aubry Mayes)

It is my opinion that every yarn crafter should have what I call the Fiber Files. Whether its stored on a computer, in a recipe box, binder, or even address book, the Fiber Files are a necessary part of crafting for others. The Fiber Files contain vital information necessary to successfully complete a project.

Without this information, severe FO crises may occur, with symptoms including short sleeves, too small head-hole, or the dreaded socks that were made to have a 6 inch cuff that, well, doesn’t.

What should be in the Fiber Files?

• Name
• Age
• Gender
• Measurements
• Color Preferences
• Allergies
• Style

Name and age are the first steps to creating a proper Fiber File. Normally, I would suggest that date of birth would be better than age, but this is one place where I find it necessary to keep the number. This step will help to remind you to update your file at least yearly.

The gender listing in the file is strictly a formality. When it comes to crafting and gender, I don’t like getting into the messiness that comes along with it. Yarn crafting is such a feminine sport as it is, we really don’t need to muddy it up by trying TOO hard to find “manly” yarn. All that results is a brown sweater and some black socks.

Sure, gender is a fantastic way to search for a pattern, particularly when it comes to fitted garments. But, being a big girl, I know how hard it can be a to find a “girlie” pattern that doesn’t look like a knitted trash bag.

(Be sure to check out my upcoming article on how to get more girlie bang for a drab pattern buck.) So in simpler terms, be sure to mark gender, but don’t be afraid to cross lines. Its fun to be edgy.

Measurements are probably the most important aspect of the Fiber Files. As I say in my article, “Size Matters”, there are so many measurements that need to be taken in consideration. These are:

• Arm Length (shoulder to elbow, shoulder to wrist, shoulder to middle finger tip, elbow to wrist, and elbow to middle finger tip, as well as upper and lower arm circumferences, all in SUM*
• Standard Shirt Size
• Standard Pants Size
• Standard Shoe Size
• Hips, Waist, in SUM
• Leg Length, in SUM
• Bust (where applicable) in SUM
• Head & Neck Circumference in SUM
• Wrist to tip of middle finger in SUM

*SUM: Standard Unit of Measurement

 To accurately record color preferences, be sure to list both love AND hate colors. For me, I love my purple, but I hate hate hate that horrible brown color that seems to infest men’s sweater patterns in knitting books from the 90′s. By listing color preferences, it simply helps to assure you that your gift is a win.

Style is a similar aspect. Just by remembering that your niece is fashionista, or your son is a punk rocker and crafting accordingly, you can win major brownie points.

Finally, we come to allergies. This subject has arisen a lot in my articles. Personally, I am allergic to sulfates and metals containing nickel. While sulfates don’t usually pop up in knitting, nickel does A LOT. Buttons, zippers, pins, accents- if its not stated as being hypo-allergenic, then it should definitely be expected that it has nickel as at least one of the primary metals.

Wool allergies are also very common. Be sure to check on the allergies of the recipients, as we wouldn’t want to be responsible for health problems, nor would we want our beautiful creations to be discarded.

When it comes to storing your Fiber Files, be sure to keep them organized in a manner you will recognize, as well as a manner that can be updated easily. Some ideas could be:

• Each person on an individual index card in a recipe-type box
• Each person on their own page in a binder
• A separate computer file for each person, in a folder specific to relationship to you, first letter of last name, or any other organization method you can think of.
• A scrapbook page including a picture of each person with detachable pieces for the changing information.
• The possibilities are endless!

The hardest part will always be getting the information from the people themselves. My advice to you: Get it yourself. What woman doesn’t lie about her weight? What man will admit to having small hands? The best way to ensure honesty is to get it yourself.

Hold a party and invite everyone you need measurements from. Bait them with food, booze, movies, whatever it is that gets them to your house and get those measurements!

Measure happy, knit happy!

Summer-time knitting! (by Aubrey Mayes)

   

 

It’s that time of year again! Yes- summer! Know what that means? Christmas knitting! Yes, I know it seems like a long ways away, but I assure you, it’s closer than it seems.

There are only about 150 days left until Christmas, and that’s only 150 days to knit. If you are like me and panicking about the looming perpetual deadline, here are some tips for you.

1. Santa isn’t the only one that needs a list, and check it more than twice. I suggest making a master list with projects, then separate lists for yarn type, yarn color and needle size;  receiver personal information (age, measurements, favorite colors, fiber allergies), and completion status. Microsoft Excel is amazing for this. (openoffice.org has a free office suite that is compatible with any version of Microsoft Office. )
2. Knit a little every day. I have a bit of PADD, or Project Attention Deficit Disorder, so I have many projects going at once. I try to do at least a few rows every day. Need to fit a little extra time in? Well, a full article is coming soon about that, but here are some tips: I knit on the bus, in waiting rooms, and while watching movies, whether in the theater or at home. I also listen to audio books so I can enjoy my Harry Potter and fiber fun at the same time.
3. Stay calm, organized, and prepared. Now is the best time to stock up- grab some plastic storage tubs to keep FOs in (toss in some lightly scented soap bars to keep them smelling fresh!), and keep the project yarn together and separated from each other for quick and easy access. I mean, let’s face it- nothing kills motivation like having to clean. Store the needed needles with the yarn to be sure they are free for use.  Make photocopies of the patterns (esp. if they are from library books!) and store them with the yarn. Stock up on notions and post its (for tracking a place in a pattern).
4. Winter is the best time for yarn, so have fun with all of the fibers, colors, and textures! Step out of the sock box and test yourself. Learn something new, revive something old, and just have fun with it!

Happy knitting…err I mean Knit Happy!

 

   

PLARN!!! (by Aubrey Mayes)

I recently purchased a wonderful book titled “AwareKnits” by pro knitter Vickie Howell and Adrienne Armstrong (knitter and wife of Green Day front man Billie Joe Armstrong). Along with dozens of eco-friendly knitting and crochet patterns and tips, there was a fabulous section on Plarn- or plastic yarn.

Plarn can definitely take some getting used to while knitting but its actually fun to make and a clever way to recycle plastic shopping bags. Through trial and error I have some fantastic tips to get you Plarn-ing away.

Here are the supplies you will need:

• Flat surface
• Scissors or Exacto knife, depending on your preference.
• Oodles of plastic bags. More bags = more Plarn!
• Patience

Try to make your bag as flat as possible and remove the handles. You can keep the handles to use as embellishment or just recycle them. Take your cutting implement of choice and make a one inch cut in the top of the bag at the seam going down. That will be the start of your strip. Cut in a spiral until the whole bag is one big strip (the book compares it to peeling an orange). Remember- the longer the strip, the fewer knots you have to tie.

From there, its just wash, rinse, repeat. Keep your strips in a pile until all of your bags are cut. I know it seems like a lot, but once you find your rhythm you’ll be turning out bags a lot more quickly. Once all of your bags are cut, tie them together. Knot them GENTLY so you do not tear the plastic but TIGHTLY because you’ll be knitting or crocheting with it. Snip the ends off the knots. Once they’re all knotted just ball it up and bada bing- PLARN!

Once you’ve made your Plarn there are many different things you can do with it. The book has a pattern for a bag, but you could do some really stellar art- deco items for the home  or some mod or bohemian- esque jewelry. The possibilities are endless, and there are millions of bags out there.

Stitch on and remember to Knit Happy with your PLARN!!! 

Beautiful Basketweave (by Aubrey Mayes)

One of my favorite stitch combos is the Basket-weave Stitch. I couldn’t believe that something so pretty was SO simple! The Basket-weave Stitch is a great stitch to add a little extra flair to some of the more commonly knit objects, like scarves, and adds great texture without adding extra thickness.

All there is to the Basket-weave is switching between Garter Stitch and Stockinette Stitch.

To start the Basket-weave, you’ll want to Cast On in a multiple of 8 stitches (I suggest against a variegated yarn, as it can look a bit too busy. Some variegated yarns that are different shades and values of a single color can work, but you have to be careful.).

Row 1: Knit all stitches.

Row 2: Knit 4, Purl 4, Repeat until end of row.

Row 3: Knit all stitches.

Rows 5 and 7: repeat row 2

Rows 4, 6, and 8: knit all stitches.

Row 9: Purl 4, Knit 4 Repeat until end of row.

Row 10: Knit all stitches.

Rows 11, 13, and 15: Repeat row 9.

Rows 12, 14: Knit all stitches.

Row 16: Repeat Row 2.

Continue the repetition until your project is complete! Yes- it is that easy!

 

 

Hosting a Knitting Party (by Aubrey Mayes)

One of the best ways to socialize with fellow crafters is to host a knitting party (or a crochet party- we’re not prejudiced!). So go ahead- invite your stitch-y friends and eat, stitch, and be merry!

“So what’s the difference between a knitting meeting and a knitting party?”

At a knitting meeting, your group is usually meeting at a public place at a set time and date. The menu is limited to what the venue offers, and there’s often a lot of other noise at the venue, which can break both concentration and conversation. On the other hand, a knitting party is a special time in between meetings that can liven up your stitching routine in addition to your social routine. You can get together and enjoy some great food and drink, conversation, and get some extra stitching in.

Step One- Choose a Theme

The first step to good entertaining is always to pick a theme. Sure, we know its a knitting party, but are we talking about brunch, dinner, or even cocktails? Indoors or outdoors? Is this a Christmas party, a Tim Burton marathon party, or a tiki party? Once you have the theme, its smooth sailing!

Step Two- Pick a Date/Time and Send Out Invitations

When deciding on the date, you’ll want to pick a date and time that will be fairly convenient for your guests. If there are a lot of parents in the group, you’ll want to make sure its not close to graduations, soccer games, or award ceremonies. (Try to avoid the last week of May and the first week of June, and try to pick a time after 6 pm on weekdays. Mornings will be best for weekends and stay at home moms.) The best times for weeknights will be after the average time people get off work, and mornings or evenings on weekends (Most errands are done in the afternoon). After the date and time are selected, send out invitations. You can buy them pre-made, or if you have scrapbook supplies handy,  you can make them. Include date, time, location, theme, and RSVP. Slipping in the theme is as easy as picking up invitations with a coordinating motif. For instance, for a beach themed party, you could pick up invitations with seashells. Feel free to use yarn as an accent on the invitation to give it a stitch-ier look!

Step Three- Menu!

To create your party’s menu, you’ll want to take several factors into consideration. These factors are time, season, theme, and guests. Time will dictate the type of meal. For instance, a party that starts around noon would make a fabulous brunch, 2 or 3 would be good for cookouts, 5 or later would be best for dinner, and 7 or later for cocktails. You’ll want to make sure to use foods that are of good quality and in season, since those will taste the best and will give you more bang for your buck. When it comes to theme, you can find recipes for any occasion- Harry Potter themed recipes, beach themed recipes- you name it they make it. Possibly the most important factor to consider is your guest list. You’ll want to make see if any of your guests are dieting, diabetic, vegetarian/vegan, or have allergies, and you’ll want to make sure there are alternatives for any guests with any dietary needs. Also, be sure to pick desserts and finger foods that won’t bother anyone’s knitting!

Step Four- Decor

When it comes to decor, you have to be careful. Make sure it looks appropriate for the theme, but be careful not to go over the top, especially when it comes to table setting if your guests will be stitching at the table. Its best to have a dining area separate from the seating area if the party is taking place indoors. But similar to the invitations, if you can dream the theme, there’s an infinite amount of decorations that you can purchase and make.

Step Five- Party Time!

Now that the party’s all planned, its time to put your plans to good use and have fun with it! Be sure to have food prepared when your guests arrive (unless its a barbecue or similar type of party), and whatever you do, don’t stress yourself out! The most important part is to enjoy all your hard work and the company of your knitty friends!!

 

Here are some great resources:

Williams – Sonoma: Essentials of Breakfast and Brunch

Ruth Lively: Cooking From the Garden

http://www.the-leaky-cauldron.org/  (for Harry Potter themed parties)

http://allrecipes.com/Default.aspx

Be sure to (thegypsy@naughtyknitterz.com) if you have any quesitons!