Stitch Journal

Shark Hat for Blythe, pattern updated!

2012-01-31T15:44:00.000-08:00

I purchased a fancy new MacBook Air and also, purchased Pages. I started re-designing my page layouts for my older patterns.

I stared working on the Shark Hat for Blythe. I found a lot of errors in my pattern writing skills.

It has been rewritten and tested by another individual!

Here is the new pattern:

download now

Happy Knitting!

Wicked

2012-01-19T07:38:00.000-08:00

I have to say I hate the Wizard of Oz. I don't know if it was the flying monkeys or the stupid songs that made me dislike it as a kid. I think my daughter is probably the only kindergartner that has never seen it. In fact, someone made an "Oz" reference and I had to explain she has no idea what they were talking about.

With that said, I love Wicked. Crazy, I know.

I love the "adult" version of Wizard of Oz. It is just so magical and raw. I read Wicked when I was expecting my daughter (6 years ago), but I stopped there.

Before Christmas I started listening to Son of a Witch. I was a bit lost. Now, I am playing catch up and listening to Wicked.

I get inspiration to name my dolls based on what I am reading at the time. For example, Arvella is name for someone in the 1950s Henderson Board of Trustees minutes.

Elphie

Now, I have an Elphie and a Nessa. One maybe named Gilly, I am not sure yet.

Anyways, a little knitting update.

I have been struggling on my knitting lately. I just can't think of anything I want to make. I have been making some middie Blythe sized sweaters and mohair dresses for my shop, but that is about it.

Something about my shop- I am planning to open up and additional Etsy shop in May. I would do it now, but I just renewed a bunch of my craft listings. It would really add up if I did not see them to the end. The new shop will be strictly fabric, yarn, vintage sewing patterns, and vintage buttons. I think mixing Blythe and Crafts is too junky. I wish I would have thought of it last week when I was doing the renewing.

I am also hoping to develop some packaging ideas for my Blythe clothing. Eventually, I plan to post some shop goals because I do have some. Like, I use recycled packaging envelopes from my workplace to reduce landfill waste.

Stay tuned for other exciting statements like the one today.

What new?

2011-12-12T14:41:00.000-08:00

I have been trying to think up a new blog topic. I am drawing a blank.

I can update on my Christmas list.

I am practically finished. Everything is made. Only a few things are left to do. The largest task at hand is bottling the wine and designing labels for it!

I cranked out a fleece kitty scarf for R after I took her to school on Friday. I am sure it will be well received and may restore her love for me. She has firmly decided I am mean. Not sure why except I make her get out of bed to go to school. Crying ever morning really grates on my nerves.

Sorry, back to the list. I think I finished sewing on closures to her doll clothing. Her new Blythe doll is finished. All she lacks is clothing and her scalp attached. Sounds gruesome.

Everyone else is finished!

All of my current commissions are finished! Yay! No more guilt for working on my own stuff!

Right now I have several projects going on in the sewing and knitting front.

I am still working on the Red Hood from Jane Austen Knits.

I just finished a Capelet using Universal Yarns Mohair Mountain. Fun yarn, but I suggest not pulling yarn from the center pull. I had some terrible spots where the yarn stuck together with fuzz. I splurged and used Jul leather buttons! Completely worth it!

New Blythe Patterns!

2011-11-28T08:42:00.001-08:00

Apparently cold weather, no internet, and the holidays has jump started my creative juices!

In the past two weeks I have developed six new patterns for Blythe garments. I had no idea they were even floating around in my noggin. Once I got started I couldn't stop!

Here the patterns are, if there is a story, I will include it:

Romper for Blythe

2.50 USD

Mohair Caplet for Blythe

2.50 USD

Angora Cape for Blythe

2.50 USD

Mohair Skirt for Blythe

2.50 USD

Mohair Coat for Blythe

3.50 USD

This pattern was designed to showcase the button. It came from my grandmother's button jar.

Angora Coat for Blythe

3.50 USD

I have a new love for angora and mohair!

My internet company went belly up. :( So now we are shopping for a new provider. I don't know when I will get plugged back in the the world wide web.

Red Hood

2011-11-10T08:49:00.001-08:00

I, as promised, broke the bank for a Jane Austen Knits pattern. Okay, I really didn't break the bank, but it was pricey.

I bought Cascade 220 for the Scarlet Capelet. The pattern calls for 2 skeins of Plymouth Mulberry Silk for the front edging. I thought I would leave it out, but now I am thinking I want to use it. I also purchased Jul leather buttons.

The hood is finished and I am now at the shoulder increases. It is A LOT of Stocking Stitch...

Once finished, I am going to play with the idea of lining the hood.

Different note-

R's dental surgery went okay. She is still a bit grumpy. I am hoping soon she will be in a better mood.

Dread

2011-10-25T14:05:00.000-07:00

I dread tomorrow. R is having major dental surgery. Poor kid has inherited bad teeth. I feel very sad that she is going to have a mouth full of silver teeth. :(

This weekend is supposed to be a soccer tournament. I am unsure if R is going to play. I have no idea how she is going to feel after tomorrow. I am expecting to stay home with her on Thursday.

Tonight we are eating pizza and staying up really late (but no food or water past 12 am). Hopefully, she will sleep until just before we leave for the hospital.

Speaking about soccer-
Last weekend's soccer game went extremely well. R got into the fray and kicked the ball. She did some fancy footwork even. I am pretty impressed with her progress.

One week our coaches (who are college girl soccer players) were traveling for their own games and the practice coach was a college boy soccer player. He did an amazing job with drills and such. The kids really listened to him. Majority of the kids on the team cannot seem to listen to the girls.

Well, ho hum. That is all I can dredge up today.

Jane Austen Knits

2011-10-20T09:26:00.000-07:00

I have a confession- I have never read Jane Austen. First time I tried I was in 8th or 9th grade with Emma. I keep attempting every so often. My most recent attempt has been Sense and Sensibility. I read contemporary books about Jane Austen and her writings, like The Jane Austen Book Club and currently, Definitely Not Mr. Darcy.

I enjoyed The Jane Austen Book Club; however, I am not so thrilled with Definitely Not Mr. Darcy. I love the Jane Austen movies.

Wondering where this confession is going?

Image from Interweave Knits' website

There is a new Interweave Knits magazine out exclusively for Jane Austen Knits. Oh, it is glorious. I see so many items I want to knit!!! It is 15.00 dollars (rounded up). I am about to purchase is as an e-mag.

Anne Kingstone has contributed some really sweet socks. I have some of the most perfect cream colored yarn (Cascade Heritage Solids).

There are caplets, bags, sweaters, etc. I am definitely going to make a caplet even if it breaks the bank in yarn.

Okay, I am finished with my gushing.

I will give a little update on what has been going on lately.

I have commissions and charity work. My commissions are hats for a coworker's daughter. The other items isn't really a commission, it is more of a payment for this:

A wonderfully generous person gave this girl to me! Little Miss No Name (coming soon) is a Takara Lounging Lovely.

For payment I am knitting a 6 month old baby sweater and adding a pair of socks in to show my gratitude.

My charity knitting is Arkansas Children's Hospital Knitting for Noggins. Knit Unto Others has a hat drive and has made it into a competition between HSU and OBU.

I am using up a lot of yarn which makes me super happy. I am mixing up the hats between knitting and crochet. It gives me enough variety I can stay motivated. Plus, it is really great seeing those skeins of yarn shrink!

I added new patterns into my Etsy Shop and Ravelry Shop.

Unicorn Headband-

child and adult sizes!

I now have American Girl Doll size available in the Unicorn Headband, too.

Shakespeare in Love for 18 inch doll

2011-10-10T10:43:00.000-07:00

My new pattern! It is a tinyowlknits inspired sweater, as was the Blythe size one. Stephanie is ever so gracious and allowed me to publish it.

It fits 18 inch dolls like American Girl.

Add a top hat and Josephine could be Pocahontas.

Photo snagged from: http://pocahontas.morenus.org/poca_pic.html

Love the sweater and want to make it?

It is 4.50 USD.

Why?

2011-10-05T11:58:00.000-07:00

Just look at these 3 yarns,- Queensland Bamboo Cotton, Queensland Sugar Rush and Knit Picks Sport Shine.

Queensland Bamboo Cotton (lavender) is DK weight.

Queensland Sugar Rush (blue) is sport weight.

Knit Picks Sport Shine (yellow) is sport weight.

What the hell?

The two Queensland yarns are both the same size which I would call a sport weight yarn. The Knit Picks Sport Shine is supposed to be sport, but I consider it DK or maybe even light worsted.

UGH.

I am creating a pattern right now and started with the KPs (Yellow)stuff. So now, I have to find a yarn close to the yellow to make another test sweater; although, I am half way through one in the lavender.

Soccer- Team South Africa

2011-09-19T09:26:00.000-07:00

R is playing soccer. She is on team South Africa which is lime green and black.

She has her first game on Saturday. Shew, it was interesting. Hopefully, after this week's practice the team will improve.

R just wasn't sure of those boys running and pushing to get the ball. This is a new one for her. Her experience playing with boys have been in a controlled school classroom. The opposing team was nearly all boys.

We plan to work on running (not jogging), stealing, and controlling the ball. The majority of the kids have trouble with the later two.

I will give an update next Saturday and hopefully, I will have better photos maybe some action shots.

Holy Pumpkins!

2011-09-12T09:58:00.000-07:00

Wow, it's fair time already. I have only a hand full of items to enter this year.

Here is the run down:

Snake sweater
Fawkes socks
Stag bag
Crochet clutch
Christmas frog
Neckwarmer converted to dish cloth (ran out of yarn)

Mmm, I am sure I am forgetting something.

Holy Pumpkins, I am nearly finished with Christmas!

This has to be a record, I am not knitting on Christmas Eve! Here is what I have finished:

Daddy- wine
Momma- socks
Sister- Kindle cover
Brother- sign (I broke the rules and bought it.)
B-I-L- hat 85%
R- sweater 85%
Husband- Nothing yet. But, he is getting a nice woolly hat for his birthday.

I am finished with Christmas purchases for R. I haven't even started on Joe. It maybe a one item year. I really have no desire to purchase a bunch of little items.

Weekend-

Yesterday R and I got out the Halloween decor. I have 3 stuffed pumpkins that were hand-me-downs and other little items that I have picked up. Last year we made a felt creature/monster hanging garland. It is still in one piece for most part.

This year I have knitted garlic hanging on our front door. Joe came in last night and ask if it was Halloween decor. I told him I thought it seemed fitting. R has just gotten on the paper pumpkin roll. I will try to post photos once we have about a billion cut out pumpkins everywhere.

I also hope to post pictures of Christmas and Fair projects soon!

Parseltongue!

2011-08-30T13:47:00.000-07:00

I am finished with Tiny Owl Knits's Snakes Sweater. I think the name is Snake-a-licious. Maybe. Anyways it is completed and I am happy! It is definitely going in to the county fair.

My Patronus Bag, real name Fair Isle Stag Bag, is completed too! It took me forever to get the lining sewn and stitched in.

Now, if I can just get going on my Christmas gifts. I started a sweater for R and it is just under 75% finished. It is a stash bust just like the snake sweater.

Yay for stash busting!

Rowan Yarn

2011-08-10T09:53:00.000-07:00

Last week R, Joe and I took a small vacation to Eureka Springs, AR. I finally found the yarn shop there! It only took a year.

The shop had Rowan yarn. Not a lot but some. Turns out it was all yarn that has been discontinued. I purchased 2 skeins of Rowan Plaid yarn in browns. It is a chunky weight and it 218 yards for the two skeins. Gah, what to do with it? Why did I buy brown? I don't even like brown. Well, I bought it because it is Rowan and what is my child's name, Rowan.

More about naming Rowan later.

Okay, so back to the point, I don't like brown. I don't wear brown. Tans blend too much into my skin tone when I have a tan and right now I have a deep tan (deep for me).

I have decided to make birthday presents for Joe and Rowan. Joe has plans to get Rowan on a deer stand pretty often this year. I am going to make them neck warmers or hats. I will probably make R a neck warmer since I think the more orange the better and Joe a hat. The hat he can wear for duck hunting too.

Yay! That will use up the yarn and provide presents.

I am terrible. I have not been working on my Christmas knitting. I have been hexipuffin' it instead. Here some photos:

I have 2 blankets going- HUGE hexipuff blanket with "dish" cotton and the normal sock weight blanket.

First Tooth Out!

2011-08-06T15:36:00.000-07:00

R pulled her first tooth! I put some clove powder on it to numb it. Then she pulled it herself with dental floss!

As you can see from the photos, she has another one coming in behind. We have been working hard to get them out once Joe noticed them.

Weekend knitting

2011-08-01T09:55:00.000-07:00

In my most recent weekends I have had one that seemed to be "see how many projects you can start" and "finish up" weekends. This one was "freak out over gauge" weekend.

Stephanie Dosen, Tiny Owl Knits, published a wonderful pattern that I had to have right then- The Beekeeper's Quilt. A knitted quilt pattern that is made up of 3-D hexagons or hexipuffs. It fits prefect in my stash busting mood.

My gauge freak out began when I started my first puff. I was knitting away when I realized it was HUGE and not really a hexagon. Plus, the amount of yarn this thing was eating up was ridiculous. I fretted over gauge thinking my yarn was all wrong even though it was sock yarn. I went to my LYS and talked with some people about gauge. Finally, I pm'd Winterfi, who is head running a KAL on Ravelry, to see what gauge is on her puffs. I was only 2 stitches off. Then it hit her, I was doubling the size of my puff. I was knitting to 40 stitches each needle (I am magic looping) rather than 40 total.

I felt like a true blonde. I was fretting over nothing...I just read the pattern wrong!!!

Now the hexipuffs are well on there way and I am having no trouble at all. In fact, I am super happy about using up bits of yarn.

I joined the KAL and my goal is like 400 hexipuffs.

Another TOK project is the Snake sweater. It is another stash bust project. I bought tons of Jeanee worsted weight yarn on clearance for the Op Art Blanket. Well, I lost momentum. I tried to find yarn for this project just recently and decided to put it on hold. Then I pulled out the blanket and thought this is perfect!

It is going along really well. I tried it on last night, it fits perfectly.

R's birthday cardigan is going well too. I have more than plenty of yarn, in fact, I think there will be leftovers. I was hoping to use all of it up. I bought cute mother of pearl flower buttons for it on Saturday.

The three projects listed above are going on a trip with me starting tomorrow afternoon. So, hopefully I will make good progress!

Christmas and Fair

2011-07-27T08:21:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is that time again already.

Christmas-

I have just geared up, or panicked rather, my Christmas knitting. It is nearly August and I don't have even one gift finished. BAH!

Here is the line up:

Momma- socks
Ronda- socks, + an extra ?
Rick- ?
Daddy- 30 bottles of wine, in the make right now
Brent- neckwarmer
Joe- duck?
R- Weasely sweater?

My mom's socks are about 45% finished. The easiest project so far has been the wine because Joe did it.

Joe expressed interest in a knitted duck. Now, I have to decide if I want to wing it (no pun intended) or buy the pattern. I think I will embellish it with needle felting. Why did I just start needle felting? It is wonderful! Maybe I will put a zipper in the duck so it can be a money-stasher or something.

Fair-

Last year I busted my rear for the fair. This year I am going to finish the projects I am on and if they fit into the categories great, if not oh well.

Potential projects-

Fawkes Socks
R's socks
Snakes cabled sweater
R's sweater
Stag bag
Kellylnch blanket

I might come up with some others. I thought about knitting a hat or something in addition to these. Overall this is it. I am more worried about Christmas.

In addition to these items I am stash busting. I just finished off some yarn that has been hanging around the house and in the process of getting rid of some more. It is Plymouth DreamBaby DK. I bought it on super sale at LYS about 2 years ago. I had about 7 skeins of it. I am now down to 2! Which is going to be used for R's birthday cardigan!

Here is some of the yarn:

The eyelet pattern is from Some Cloudy Day Legwarmers that I adapted into R some pants.

R just got finished with a pb & j sandwich...

Reducio! Hospital Wing

2011-07-05T15:10:00.000-07:00

I joined Reducio swap Hospital Wing. Funny thing, it came on a day that I left work sick.

A very sweet package came from Leighton Buzzard, United Kingdom.

Thanks, Ali123!

Sock bits

2011-06-28T14:07:00.000-07:00

So, I was under the impression that I would have millions of little sock yarn leftovers once I started knitting socks. Hmm...where am I going wrong?

I hate buying full skeins yarn for Blythe clothing. I have the yarn forever and I get sick of it. Sometime it is super satisfying finished up all of that yarn, well, unless you are running short.

I, so far, have only had one nice Blythe-size leftover. All my others are still too much to use for doll clothing. Maybe practice makes perfect. That means knit more socks.

Ariana socks are on hold. The twisted stitches are too much for me to think about right now. I have moved on to my custom knee socks in self striping yarn. I am almost finished with the first sock. Very little yarn will be left. :(

Am I ready?

2011-06-24T20:40:00.000-07:00

Am I ready for Ann Kingstones's Gyffindor Pride socks?

Photos are from Ann's Ravelry and website.

I think I have enough yarn for them. I am okay with sock anatomy now and I am fair at fair isle (no pun intended).

I want to try these soon. Right now I am going to make a pair named for Dumbledore's sister, Ariana.

Oh, here are R's socks:

Pattern also by Ann Kingstone

Can I start new socks?

2011-06-21T17:38:00.000-07:00

NO! I have to finish my Bellatrix and Gryffindor pair first! But, I so want to start Ariana. I haven't tried toe up yet.

I was going to use a blue yarn but I have Cascade Heritage Sock Yarn in cream that I think would look very lovely. I want the socks to be tall.

Ahh....I have to wait. Off to knit socks.

Added later-

I do not have photos of my socks. But, here is R's socks. Socks for Little Witches by Ann Kingstone. Ann is a lovely knitter. I think she is publishing a book soon, Novel Knits. I just read that is will be available in US. Yay for Ann!

Well, I will have to add it later. I can't get it to do it.

Why did I buy straights?

2011-06-15T11:37:00.000-07:00

I am no longer keeping my straight needles. The only purpose they are serving right now is decorative and they are messy looking at that.

I wish some knitting genius would have advised me to stock up on circular needles instead of straights. Wondering where this post is going? Well, I am bunching them up by size and selling them in my Etsy shop. I am hoping someone out there just loves straight needles!!

They are very nice needles- birch, rosewood, and bamboo.

I am selling other knitting odds and ends- point covers, cable needles, stitch holders, thimbles, finger protectors, etc.

I feel like I have hit a knitting milestone. I have been at it long enough that I know what works for me and it is time to get rid of the rest.

It is like finally remembering the kitchener stitch. Big milestone!

Knitting Goals

2011-06-01T12:19:00.000-07:00

It seems that I have a million things I want to knit and write patterns for, but too little of time to get it done.

I think I am going to write patterns for my old projects which include: the niffler, mandrake, pixie, and ashwinder. If you couldn't tell these are magical creatures from Harry Potter. So far, my issues have been either trying to remember or trying to compensate for my weird way of knitting. All of my early projects use knit through the back loop (ktlb) as the knit stitch and that stitch shapes completely different from the knit stitch. In a lot of ways I like it better for toys, it creates an elongated and tight knit.

There are few other items that I have in the planning stage.

Long overdue

2011-05-25T09:02:00.000-07:00

I haven't been feeling in the mood to blog. Don't know why really. I still don't feel in the mood, but I feel bad seeing a short, old post up.

I am knitting socks. Yes, socks. I probably kept my animosity towards socks from my blog. Well, last week it hit me I want to try them out. My first pair are finished and my second pair are the the works. I will see if I can get a photo up of the first sometime today or tomorrow.

This isn't really knitting related but it is fiber!

I rooted mohair! It is so lovely and soft. I believe this girl's name is Lilith. I bought her from someone in Australia without her scalp. I think she turned out really pretty.

Blythe Knits on Facebook

2011-04-02T16:59:00.001-07:00

Want to know what's going on with my Etsy shop, Blythe Knits? Like me on Facebook and get updates! Who knows, I may even run promotions and sales through the social networking site.

Happy Knitting!

Knitting Book Destash

2011-03-23T16:56:00.000-07:00

7 dollars per title and 3 dollars US shipping:

Glamour Knits by Erika Knight
Textured Knits by Julia Cooper
No Sheep for You by Amy R. Singer
New Knits on the Block by Vickie Howell (2 copies)
Casual, Elegant Knits by Faina Goberstein and Dawn Leeseman
Knitted Babes by Claire Garland
Knit one, Strip too by Candace Eisner Strick
Knit Wit by Amy R. Singer (Sold)
Knitting with Hand-Dyed Yarns by Missy Burns, Stephanie Blaydes Kaisler, and Anita Tosten
Hollywood Knits Style by Suss Cousins
Stitch N' Bitch Nation
Punk Knits
Crocheting in Plain English by Maggie Righetti
Chick Knits by Julia Cooper
The Knitter's Bible, Knitted Bags by Claire Crompton
Knitting a Kiss in Every Stitch by Nicky Epstein

Crafty Fire for Blythe

2011-03-06T11:48:00.000-08:00

Crafty Fire for Blythe

Supplies:

US 1 DPNs
Blue fingering weight yarn
Darning needle
Crochet hook

Note- To start out I use an i-cord on the first round.

CO 3 (make sure to have a long tail) in the round

*KFB* every stitch. = 6 sts.

*KFB* every stitch. = 12 sts.

Knit 3 rounds.

*SSK, K2* all around. = 9 sts.

Knit 1 round.

*SSK, K1* all around. = 6 sts.

*SSK* all around. = 3 sts.

Pull yarn through remaining stitches and weave in end.

Fire Petals, knitted flat-

Using the CO tail, pick up 2 stitches.

KFB the 2 stitches.

SSK, K2tog

P2tog

Pull yarn through the stitch and weave in ends.

Repeat a second time for another petal.

Attach new yarn and chain stitch a loop big enough to fit Blythe's hand.

Have fun!

Copyright by Natalie Scrimshire 2011

This is for personal use only. Please do not sell pattern. I can be reached at nscrimshire@gmail.com or at Ravelry user name- PandoraPhelps. Check me out on Etsy! BlytheKnits

Hermione's Crafty Fire Knitting Pattern

2011-03-06T10:15:00.000-08:00

Hermione's Craft Fire Knitting Pattern

Supplies:

US 5 DPNs
Blue worsted weight yarn
Darning needle
Polyfil

CO 6 stitches in the round.

KFB every stitch. = 12 sts.

KFB every stitch. =24 sts.

*K1, KFB* all around. = 36 sts.

Knit for 6 rounds.

*K1, SSK, K6, K2tog, K1* all around. = 30 sts.

Knit for 3 rounds.

*K1, SSK, SSK, K5* all around. = 24 sts.

Knit for 2 rounds.

*K4, K2tog, K2tog* all around. = 18 sts.

Knit for 2 rounds.

*SSK, K2, K2tog* all around. = 12 sts.

*SSK* all around. = 6 sts.

Lightly stuff the bottom with polyfil. Cut yarn and pull through remaining stitches. Weave in ends.

Fire Petals, knit flat:

CO 3

KFB, K1, KFB

Stocking stitch for 3 rows.

SSK, K1, K2tog

Purl

SSK, K1

P2tog

Pull yarn through remaining stitch and weave in ends.

CO 3

KFB every stitch

Purl

KFB, K4, KFB

Stocking stitch 3 rows.

SSK, K4, SSK

Purl

SSK, K2, SSK

Purl

SSK, SSK

P2tog

Pull yarn through remaining stitch and weave in ends.

Stitch the fire petals to the bottom of the main fire.

Now you have created a magical fire!

Copyright by Natalie Scrimshire 2011

This is for personal use only. Please do not sell pattern. I can be reached at nscrimshire@gmail.com or at Ravelry user name- PandoraPhelps.

Check out me on Etsy! BlytheKnits

Little R

2011-02-19T14:28:00.000-08:00

Welcome Home Outfit for Petite Blythe

2011-02-02T11:40:00.000-08:00

Welcome Home Outfit for Petite Blythe

Supplies:

US 1 DPNs

Sock weight yarn

4 stitch markers

Darning needle

Scrap yarn

Velcro

Sweater:

CO 15

Place marker at 3, 2, 5, 2 3

Row 1- KFB before and after every maker

Row- Purl all stitches

Repeat 1 and 2 once more or until there are 6 sleeve stitches.

Knit to the sleeves and place them on scrap yarn and do the same for the second one.

Stocking stitch for 6 rows.

K1 x P1 for 1 row

BO in rib and weave in ends.

Sew on Velcro for closure.

Sleeves x 2-

Place the 6 stitches back on the needles and pick up 2 at the armpit.

Knit for 5 rounds.

K2tog, knit the rest.

K1 x P1 for 1 round.

BO in rib and weave in ends.

Skirt:

CO 20

Knit for 6 rounds.

Decreasing-

*K1, SSK, K4, K2tog, K1* twice.

Knit for 1 round.

K1 xP1 for 1 round.

BO in rib and weave in ends.

Wondering why this pattern is called Welcome Home Outfit? Check out my dolly blog with the story about Applesauce, who is the model.

Copyright by Natalie Scrimshire 2011

This is for personal use only. Please do not sell pattern. I can be reached at nscrimshire@gmail.com or at Ravelry user name- PandoraPhelps.

Have you ever Kitchner Stitched with a paper clip?

2011-01-26T09:52:00.000-08:00

Well, I am here to tell you that it is possible. I was caught without a darning needle today so I resorted to a paper clip. It is a bit tricky since you have two points to worry about but it can be mastered!

A quick update-

I started an Etsy shop on Monday. It has been a long time coming. Right now I have my 3 Blythe knitting patterns listed, but hope to add more things soon. Here is the link to my shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/BlytheKnits?ref=pr_shop_more

Starting on Friday I am teaching magic loop at my LYS, Knit Unto Others, using Rebecca Dangers's Tofu the Gentle Dachshund.

This image is actually notecards for sale in Rebecca's shop. If interested, here is the link: http://www.etsy.com/listing/41875257/new-tofu-the-dachshund-blank-note-cards.

This one isn't even really worth mentioning, BUT, I possibly have a sweater for kids in the works. I think it will be pretty gender neutral. More on that later.

Yay for knitting!

Cleaning up my blog

2011-01-20T09:19:00.000-08:00

In the next few days I am going to be "cleaning out" blog post. It is amazing what post are popping up on the Link Within widget. My blog's purpose, I feel, has changed since I first started posting and I am deleting some of the post from a couple of years ago.

I will keep a lot but some of the swap assignments are going to the trash. However, I will keep certian things as examples for people. I understand that it is nice to see what others have made in the past for your own ideas. I will label all swap related posting as swaps. This will include- packages I sent, packages I received, assignments, and projects related to it. I feel for now I am finished with swaping. I have personal goals that I want to meet and swaps became a finacial and time burden.

Labeling will be edited heavily. I am now using only a hand full of labels to make them useful.

I do have a lot of doll related post that will stay even though this is my knitting blog.

Okay, there is my explanation.

New Pattern for Sale!

2011-01-18T09:13:00.000-08:00

Make a little deer outfit for your Petite Blythe! This pattern includes alternate bits to ensure perfect fit for the Littlest Pet Shop Blythes, also.

This pattern requires small amounts of yarn to create the hat and romper. The sock yarn was used for the embroidery work. Two miniature buttons are used to close the back to give this romper a sweet finish. Yarn overs are the buttonholes.

The romper is knitted flat and seamed up the inseam and back. Stitches are picked up for the tail and an i-cord is made.

The hat is knitting in the round and the ears are i-cord that are stitched on afterwards. The antler numbs (or tines) are a hybred version of the French knot. Not to worry, it is explained in the pattern.

Lots of snow!

2011-01-10T15:00:00.000-08:00

It was forecasted only 3 inches!

Snow!

2011-01-09T17:27:00.000-08:00

We hardly ever get snow in Arkansas but today it looks like winter wonderland!

I had pretty cardinals at my bird feeder.

It is still snowing. I think we have had about 6 inches today. Best thing about it, no work tomorrow!

Girly Chihuahua Dress for Blythe's Pet

2011-01-02T11:35:00.000-08:00

Girly Chihuahua Dress for Blythe’s Pet

Supplies:

US 0 needles, either 24+ circular for Magic Loop or DPNs

Fingering yarn

Darning needle

Velcro

Directions:

CO 20

Knit

Purl

Knit

Purl

K2tog every stitch

Purl

Knit

Purl

Knit

On wrong side- backwards CO 15, then purl across the new 15 and old 10 stitches.

K9, K2tog, BO 14

Purl

K1, K2tog, K4, SSK, K1

Purl

Knit

Backwards CO 10 and join in the round.

Knit 2 rounds.

BO purlwise loosely and weave in ends.

Stitch or fabric glue on Velcro to attach the belly strap to the topside of the dress.

Copyright by Natalie Scrimshire 2011

This is for personal use only. Please do not sell pattern. I can be reached at nscrimshire@gmail.com or at Ravelry user name- PandoraPhelps

Christmas Success

2011-01-02T07:36:00.000-08:00

I made it another year. I hand knitted all of my family gifts. My mom and I were finishing the boys' slippers on Christmas Eve all in a rush, but they got finished! I asked her since I was in a time crunch to help me sew the zippers in by machine. She sewed and I did the finishing. I finished up somethings for R too.

Next year I think I am going to broaden my handmade gift idea. I am running out of practical gift ideas for the boys. I am thinking I should design t-shirts for them and screen print them. I will leave the making for the summer. It is so cold in my house the paint won't dry right now. Plus, I need a break.

Okay, here is some sentimental mom stuff. I have been mildly emotional this Christmas over R. She is 5 and I guess the end of the year always marks the fact she is getting older. She was so good and well behaved it was just amazing. It was a rough Christmas because this was the first year my grandpa was gone and having her here made it better.

Some of these unexpected emotions come from the fact I had a permanent birth control procedure in November. It is now final, she is my only child. Of course, adoption has been an option for me for awhile. Right now we are not financial stable enough for another child in anyway. Who knew I would get hit with this stuff at Christmas.

Anyways......next time I will hopefully have more knitting info to share with you... I am just worn out on knitting at the moment.

Party Dress for Blythe

2011-01-01T13:40:00.000-08:00

Party Dress for Blythe

Supplies:

Fingering or sport weight yarn

US 2 DPNs

Darning needle

Directions:

Starting bottom up-

CO 30

Seed stitch for 2 rows.

Knit 1 round.

*K2, KFB,* repeat to the end.

Knit 1 round.

*K1, KFB,* repeat to the end.

Knit multiple rounds until desired length of skirt.

Decrease-

*K2tog* all stitches.

Knit 2 rounds.

*K2tog, K1, * repeat to the end. = 20 sts.

Knit 3 rounds.

Increasing for the bodice-

Step 1- K4, KFB, K4, KFB, K10

Step 2- K5, KFB, K5, KFB, K10

Step 3- K6, KFB, K6, KFB, K10

Step 4- K7, KBF, K7, KFB, K10

Step 5- K4, KFB, K3, KFB, K4, KFB, K3, KFB, K2, SSK, K2, K2tog, K2

Step 6- K5, KFB, K4, KFB, K5, KFB, K4, KFB, K2, SSK, K2tog, K2

Knit 1 round.

Seed stitch for 2 rounds. BO on the second seed stitch round and weave in ends.

Copyright by Natalie Scrimshire 2011

This is for personal use only. Please do not sell pattern. I can be reached at nscrimshire@gmail.com or at Ravelry user name- PandoraPhelps

Christmas Updates

2010-12-02T09:50:00.000-08:00

My Christmas to do list has shortened, I think.

I have completed:

sister- yoga socks

mom- knit frog

brother- brown hat

brother-in-law- hunter green neckwarmer

child- piggy slippers

husband- hat

As of right now everyone has 1 knitted item completed but my daddy. Which, I decided, is getting framed photos of R and his late kitty, Scruffy.

R is getting a purple winter hat which I plan on doing this weekend.

Slipper Project-

child- done

dad- 80%

husband- 40%

brother- 5%

brother in law- 0%

sister- 0%

mom- 0%

It isn't looking very good, is it? I can have my sister's finished in no time, so I am not too worried about those. The mens' slippers are about to kill me. Easy pattern, but excruciatingly boring after the first pair.

I am so ready for knitting freedom. I have been knitting for someone else or for Christmas since September. Plus, I want to knit myself a sweater in time for Christmas. Not happening.

Good news, I have all of my commissions finished but one. I think I will force myself soon.

Non-knitting topics:

I have been slowly building up my Doll Blog- http://www.pandorasdolls.blogspot.com/. I have 2 customizations still in the works. I am building a boy Blythe.

I have to serve on jury duty two days after Christmas, while I am on Holiday Vaction. :(

Petite Dresses for Petite Blythe

2010-11-11T12:45:00.001-08:00

Petite Dresses for Petite Blythe

Supplies:

US 2 needles

DK weight yarn

Yarn darning needle

Notes: This is a formula that gives you general guide lines to construct a Petite Blythe Dress. It can be completely customizable. Make sure to cast on extra yarn to use as a tie.

Instructions:

CO 11

Work 2 rows.

Work 4 sts, YO, work 3 sts, YO, work 4 sts; this should be on right side.

Work 5 more rows (less or more to your desired style).

Increase on right side as many or less as you prefer.

Work shirt rows to your preference.

BO on wrong side.

Stitch up the skirt portion until it is sufficient space to slip the body inside the dress. Weave the stitching yarn up to the neck. Anchor and use as a tie.

Want more specific instructions?

Pink Example

CO 11

Garter st for 2 rows

K4, YO, K3, YO, K4

St st for 5 rows

*K1, KFB* repeat to end. (I ended with a K1)

Garter stitch for ¾”

BO on wrong side

Stitch up and create ties.

Grey Example

CO 15

Knit

Purl

K4, YO, K7, YO, K4

Purl

Knit

Purl

*K2, M1, K2* repeat to end.

St st for 1 1/4 inch.

BO on wrong side.

Stitch up and create ties

Copyright by Natalie Scrimshire 2010

This is for personal use only. Please do not sell pattern. I can be reached at nscrimshire@gmail.com or at Ravelry user name- PandoraPhelps

Wondering what I have been up to?

2010-11-10T09:44:00.000-08:00

Commissions, Commissions, Commissions. About the time I think I am caught up, I get another request. Thanks goodness they are something simple like baby hats.

Now, I have the fear that my Christmas knitting will not be finished. I have been so busy trying to finish up other people's projects, that my Christmas knitting has been place on back burner. Stupid me thought everyone needed slippers. Gahahahahaha.....that is a laugh of insanity....... What the xxxx what I thinking? Only set completed is R's....

I will try my best to photograph some of the FO's laying around my house. The Scoop Pullover I made will be going to my sister since it is entirely too big for me. That was a bummer. I made TinyOwlKnit's Woodland Hoodlet with great success though. It is very warm.

Announcement!

2010-10-28T14:56:00.000-07:00

I have three announcements!

1- I am receiving 3 new dolls in result of a yarn-doll trade! I am getting 2 petites and a 12 inch one. She is Takara Prima Dolly Ginger.

DemeterKnits took this photo for me.

Holy crap am I excited!

2 I bought another Blythe before the trade. She is a Takara Very Vicky.

Photo from www.thisisblythe.com

I am excited, but less so because of the money I spent.

3 I have a new blog dedicated to Blythe! www.pandorasdolls.blogspot.com This way Stitch Journal can be about knitting again.

I will be cross posting some things I am sure.

Christmas Knitting

2010-10-26T09:48:00.000-07:00

Some progress has been made on Christmas gifts. I have one slipper out of 6 mens' slippers knitted. Which isn't real progress but hey, they are started.

My brain was so scattered this weekend I did not really get too much done. I restarted R's backpack and I am making it up as I go. I did not like the kitty backpack design I found on Ravelry because it has too many pieces. I am a firm believer in things knitting in the round to avoid seaming. To add cute detail I plan to glue felt onto the back to give it stripes.

I made a baby boy hat as a commission. Nice, quick project.

I have had some interest in my Zero scarf lately. I have one person wanting to buy one and while I knit it I plan to write the pattern.

My Dolls

2010-10-17T16:24:00.000-07:00

White hair- Angelina
Blonde with red dress- Fleur
Sandy blonde with blue dress- Hermione
Red hair- Penelope
Orange hair- Ginny

I think I may start a new blog. This blog has been over run by Blythe so maybe I need a blog about Blythe alone. That way I can list the girls and all of their changes.

I see one more Blythe in my future soon before I start back to school.

Before shot of custom dolls

2010-10-14T11:27:00.000-07:00

This photo was taken by the ebay seller rich_amphai. Silly me did not take a before shot. Newly customized final coming soon.

Stock photo from Amazon of Roaring Red. Soon newly customized doll photos will be posted. I am waiting on paint to finish her up.
Unfortunately, I think I missed my chance to get the photo for the third doll I am customizing.

Can you believe it, 3? I was so nervous about cracking open the real Blythe doll (Roaring Red) but all is good.

Parrot Dream

2010-10-14T09:39:00.000-07:00

Never have I had the desire to own an exotic bird, but last night I dreamed I rescued one. Strangest thing.

I was walking home from work and I noticed that in a tree a Green Macaw had a string wrapped around it's let and a tree. I somehow climbed the tree and untangle the bird. I carried it home to care for it. I had to contact someone I know that owns birds to help me with necessary items and how to clean it.

There are several things wrong with this. For one, I am scared of heights, and two, like I said above, I am not a bird person. I am not sure if a Green Macaw is a real bird breed.

I made flyers trying to find it's home and no one claimed it. I then became a bird owner and taught Tico to leave it alone. Go figure.

I guess this is better than dreaming about the library basement. I could have gone all my life without seeing it. My first basement excursion was on Monday and I had to go down there again yesterday. I just knew it would fuel a nightmare.

And I scream loudly in the library....

2010-10-11T12:25:00.000-07:00

That I finished 2 Christmas presents! Yay, Yah, Yah....

Yoga Sock- done.

Piggy Slippers- done.

Next to come, more slippers and a backpack.

Sneak Peek

2010-10-10T17:18:00.000-07:00

Isn't she pretty!

I am having body issues though. The World of Love doll, Soul, did not match the paint. I thought it did in the store. Damn crappy Hobby Lobby lighting. So, now starts the hunt for a new body. I probably screwed up Soul's body by trying to spray paint it. Joe, my hubby, gave me fair warning.

She has 2 new sets of eye chips and I am still attempting to fit eye lashes in the slot. Grrr....buttons. It is not easy.

A few more thoughts on my Roaring Red customization. She was NOT assembled with water soluble glue like I have read.

Blythe Day

2010-10-09T16:42:00.000-07:00

Today I have have been working on customizing my Blybe and my Roaring Red Ashton Drake Blythe.

The spray painting the Blybe is finished, the unfortunate thing is that the paint did not match the body. I am not sure what to do- sand it and start over or find a new body. I forgot that Bratz dolls have weird feet so that option is out. I might check the Moxie doll and see if she is suitable.

I can't seem to get the eye lashes in the slots either. Much harder than I anticipated.

My Roaring Red, I have never been happy with her. I bought her brand new and her hair was ferocious. The other day I noticed that her spring was about to slip off which it did. I got it back on but it was stretched. I decided to pull the scalp off and start over. Which, by the way, was not nearly as easy as I have read. Her scalp was completely different that the way Puchi Collective Tutorial described. I did it, but I will be order a new scalp and wefting for new hair.

We will see how all of this plays out. I am giving my Blybe a night to dry and then I am spraying a clear coat on her.

It's October!

2010-10-04T12:36:00.000-07:00

I don't know where September went to! I have kicked it into high gear on Christmas gifts. I have made a pretty fair dent in them. If I could quit adding to the list I would be okay. I have now decided that everyone should have knitted slippers. R's slippers are back to the original plan of piggies.

On top of Christmas presents, I have several commisions. Woohooo....money!

I have been debating on purchasing a new Blythe doll. Yesterday I was convince, but today I am not so sure. I did get my Blybe doll in the mail that I am doing my customizations on. I ordered her eye chips and eye lashes too. Now I have a body, head and eyes. I can't start on it until I actually receive the body and head for Christmas from my husband. I am afraid that paint matching won't be as easy as expected. The Krylon selection seems a bit limited in the browns.

Deer Hat for Blythe

2010-09-19T08:27:00.000-07:00

I posted my first pattern for sale on Ravelry!

Perfect quick project for fun or costume purposes for your Blythe doll! This little hat was created thanks to tinyowlknits’s deer with little antlers hat available on her blog: http://owlinthedark.blogspot.com/2010/08/deer-with-little-antlers-hat.html.

The pattern is written for magic loop method, but can easily be converted for DPNs. The hat, ears and antlers are all knitted seperately.

Great project for using up scrap yarn. Felting is optional for the antlers.

I made the little sweater and skirt too.

Photo credits go to Joe Phelps, my husband. I convinced him to play with dolls!

Weekend

2010-08-23T09:59:00.000-07:00

This weekend wasn't so productive. I did finish a thing or two but nothing real significant.

I tested a pattern that will soon be for sale through Ravelry. I want to test it one more time. I used a little to heavy of yarn to make it a true test because I had to alter the pattern. Want a peak?

Once I get ready to post the pattern for sale, I will write more about the inspiration and such.

I also have a second pattern that will be going up for sale soon after the deer hat. No peaks on that one! I haven't tested it but I think my pattern is pretty accurate. This time I wrote as I knitted.

I restarted my Some Cloudy Day legwarmers by tinyowlknits. I got pretty far on the first one since we took a day trip on Saturday. The trip ended up not being overly fun. We are searching for a place to relocated in the state for better jobs. My job is a good one, just not necessarily what I want to do forever. I would like to go back to school and stay home a little more with R. Joe and I had a bit conflicting idea of where the ideal location was to move. So, it did not really put the rest of the weekend in a good mood for any of us, R included.

Sunday was a nice day on a cold river though! I pretty much have refused to swim in a lake this year. I hate how the water feels warm. I just don't think it is real healthy for you because it is not a constant flow. My little brother owns a jet boat and he invited us to go out with some friends for the day. The river was really low at noon so he walked to boat out where the little ones could play pretty safely...and to clear the air- we are firm belivers in life jackets. It was really nice and R had a great time playing with someone near her age. Poor thing almost always is with all adults. It is really sweet to see how kids can bond nearly instantly.

Airplane Dream

2010-08-21T17:51:00.000-07:00

I had this dream a couple weeks ago that I witnessed an airplane fall out of the sky. I was lazing about in my parents' house yard just sitting in the grass and enjoying the day. Something that in Arkansas has not been possible in the last 2 months. I was looking at the clouds listening to Joe talk about something. The clouds had hole where the plane flew through them. The plane started taking a nose dive. I thought it was a training procedure. It did not pull back up and then there was an explosion.

I remember in my dream saying to Joe, that plane just crashed! We rushed to take pictures for the newspaper. This is jumbled because Joe does not cover things in the town my parents live in and the place where we went was nothing I have ever seen.

It was a general store and no one seemed at all concerned over the plane or the people in it. Seating was set up inside, I guess for a press conference of sorts. I leaned over and asked a lady if it was a Henderson plane. The answer was no. Henderson has an aviation program.

I don't really know why this dream has hung on this long. Even though it was a pure figment of my imagination it was still disturbing.

Fall Outfit

2010-08-20T12:59:00.000-07:00

Puchi Collective pants and a top of my own design

Hermione's new outfit. Her hair will be curled with real curlers tonight.

Chihuahua Sweater for Blythe’s Pet, 2.0

2010-08-20T12:39:00.000-07:00

Chihuahua Sweater for Blythe's Pet, 2.0

Pattern Notes: This sweater is essentially the same pattern just a little longer. It was how I originally wrote the first sweater, but I thought it was look better shorter. I tested the pattern and I liked both.

Supplies:

DPNs US 2 or 3s

fingering yarn with elastic

darning needle

Directions:

CO 12

Rib K1x P1 for two rounds.

*K3, KFB,* all around.

*K4, KFB,* all around.

K1, YO, K4, YO, K1, K all around.

K2 rounds.

Rib K1 x P1 for two rounds.

BO and weave in ends.

Copyright by Natalie Scrimshire 2010

This is for personal use only. Please do not sell pattern. I can be reached at nscrimshire@gmail.com or at Ravelry user name- PandoraPhelps

Hair

2010-08-19T16:06:00.000-07:00

So, Roaring Red, who is appropriately named Hermione, had a cute hair do in the photos. When I took it out of the hair net, it was horrendous. I have been trying to style it by cutting and water. Now it is in pipe cleaner curlers.

Hermione fits her because it was the most awful bush of hair I have every seen. To bad I don't have any Sleekeazy's Hair potion. All she needs is a S.P.E.W. badge.

At this point I just hope that I didn't ruin her hair.

Roaring Red

2010-08-18T12:58:00.000-07:00

Today my 4th Blythe should be delivered, officially the last for 2010. Last real one anyways. I plan to ask my husband for a clone for Christmas so I can customize.

photo from amazon.com, FYI I did not spend that much!

This one is an Ashton Drake Roaring Red. I have 3 long haired dolls with all natural hair color now. I think Miss Red may get a hair cut at some point.

Lamby, the size of thread

2010-08-15T08:36:00.000-07:00

Pattern from Puchi Collective. Thanks for sharing the pattern!!

All hand stitched, my marking pen did not come out like it should, but it gives Lamby depth.

Ginny's Mod Outfit

2010-08-15T08:31:00.000-07:00

Ginny's Mod Outfit

I hand stitched the top. This pattern is from Simplicity.

Customization

2010-08-12T10:57:00.000-07:00

I noticed some people have beautiful African/African American Blythe dolls. FunnyBunny on Ravelry has a website, http://www.funnybunny.se/, and she has a little description about her doll Chocolate Pudding. I am awaiting on a reply to clear up some of my questions, but she created Chocolate Pudding by spay paint and a vintage doll's body. I really want to try this.

I want to try it with a Bratz doll body and a clone Blythe. I will have to purchase a wig or two. First I need to find out about paint and body. No point in moving forward until then. I have nearly too many projects but this one would be a lot of fun. I could practice dismantling and customization without the fear of ruining a real Blythe. While she is cracked open, I want to try the eyelid painting, too.

I hope R's gets here pronto. She was shipped yesterday.

Thinking about...

2010-08-11T13:11:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking about the color orange. Not particularly my favorite, but I can appreciate it. I keep wanting to use orange for a knitting project-- pumpkins, specifically. I think I have fall fever. Today, I have been wasting time looking through Etsy Collections people have created. Everyone seems to be thinking about the end of summer or fall.

Something else I have been pondering is squirrels. They are some of the most unsual creatures. I encouter them all the time on my way to work and from work. They have lost their fear of people for the most part and I can walk right up to them. Squirrels are a classic case of ADHD.

I am already planning for Halloween. I always do this and then kind of burn out before it gets here. This year I am not making a costume. If I ever sew for myself again I am buying a dress form. I never really did knit any Halloween items which is a bummer. I still have time, but who knows where my fancy will take me before October.

I joined a Halloween swap so that has got me thinking about it. I have one item made for it and a second in the works. The second item is very taste specific so it may or may not be used. They are really cool. I have made about 20 of these little treasures. I am making Jack Skellington faces out of shrinky dinks for buttons. I have some micro ones for a Blythe sweater and some about the size of a dime. I have been hand drawing them. I hope to make R a little sweater with them also.

I made some purchases lately. I bought 2 Shaun the Sheeps for R's birthday and Christmas presents, a cheapo swift ($28 from Overstock.com!), and a clone Blythe. The clone Blythe is for R's "Santa" present. I am unsure the quality yet. I looked up some reviews before I made the purchase (she was really, really great price) and they were all really positive. I did hear rumor about high lead levels with the clones and I am looking for some place to test the doll before I give it to R. She doesn't chew on her toys so I think it will be okay, but just to be safe....

As I was making new outfits for my Blythes this past weekend, I was pretty stumped on my Neo Blythe, Ginny. I was going to get Simply Gauva in the future. Now I am thinking about passing on her. I really prefer the Ashton Drake Blythes. I like the fact the faces are a bit more matt finished and they feel more durable. I have one ebay that I am watching. I am debating. I have an angel and a devil on my shoulders. The devil will most likely win.

I just got a text from my cousin asking for This is Blythe website. She loved my dolls! It is good to know that my dolls are liked by someone in my family other than a 4 year old.

Ginny's new fringe and freckles

2010-08-09T09:05:00.000-07:00

From Russia with Love

2010-08-08T13:17:00.000-07:00

Pixie Hat and Outfit

2010-08-06T13:42:00.000-07:00

With fall, hopefully, relieving us soon from the hellish temperatures Penelope asked for a warm Pixie Hat and outfit.

Chihuahua Sweater for Blythe’s Pet

2010-08-04T10:05:00.000-07:00

Supplies:

US 2 DPNs

Fingering weight yarn with elastic

Darning needle

Pattern Notes:

This pattern is designed for the Chihuahua that came with the Simply Mango set. Yarn with elastic is needed to help with getting the sweater on and off of the miniature.

Instructions-

CO 12

K1 x P1 rib stitch for two rounds.

*K3, KFB,* all around.

Knit 1 round.

K1, double YO, K2tog, K2 double YO, K2tog, K all around.

Knit 1 round. *Purl the second loop of the double YO. *

K1 x P1 rib stitch for two rounds. *The rib did not come out even, add a stitch if you like.*

BO and weave in ends.

Copyright by Natalie Scrimshire 2010

This is for personal use only. Please do not sell pattern. I can be reached at nscrimshire@gmail.com or at Ravelry user name- PandoraPhelps

Bubble Top

2010-08-04T10:00:00.000-07:00

My Knit Picks yarn FINALLY came yesterday. I got to work immediately on my Bubble Top sweater. I got to the point last night that I could put it on! It fits. I have the pockets left to finish and then blocking.... YEA! I order 2 skeins just to be safe, but as I figured I only needed about 80 more yards. I am thinking of making a headband with the leftovers.

I also purchase a skein of cotton sock yarn in Planetarium colorway. Gosh, it is pretty. I am going to make SockPixie's Liesl Kerchief with it.

Fair Projects

2010-07-31T13:41:00.000-07:00

This has been a super productive weekend so far.

I have these items on my Finished List now:

purse
dishcloth
jewelry
crochet toy Owlet
Nessie
knitted toy Kitty
bathing suit
Fairy Light hat
St. Patty's Day cap

Next to finish is the baby sweater. All I have left is buttons and an edge on the front.

I am waiting on the mailman for my yarn. I am not sure if it will be here but I am hoping!!! Damnit, it will be here Monday.....

Projects Update for the Week of July 25-29

2010-07-29T08:10:00.000-07:00

Projects-

I worked on my Bubble top until I ran out of yarn. I just ordered more today, so this is on hold for 3-4 days more. I got the front completely finished and nearly half way through the back. Once I finish that, the pockets will be finished off, the roll collar added and the sleeves crocheted around. It is pretty exciting!

I started on fingerless gloves. One is about finished but when I get the second completed it will be ripped out to where the pattern starts. I did the chart backwards and I am just bothered by the way it looks.

Last night I started two projects- a crocheted owlet and a purse. The owlet is nearly finish from scrappy bits. The crown section is all I have left. The bag, well, I am still not sure how I want to finish it off. I have about 3 1/2 inches of the body. I can't decide if I want to do pleates and a seed stitch band at the top or two big pleats and a cable band. The easiest, of course, would be the seed stitches, but I am kind of leaning towards the cable piece. I think I can knit it seperately while keeping my stitches for the top of the bag live. Once I complete the band, go back and pick up stitches around it and knit the picked up and live one together to attatch it. Not sure if it will work. Also, I am thinking about picking up stitches at the bottom to give it a bit of dimension. I am using yarn that has been in my stash for at least 2 years. It is very pretty and I have had a hard time choosing a pattern for it. In truth, I forgot about it a bit. It is Trendsetters Natasha yarn in Red, Purples and metallics.

I am making a second baby sweater to enter in the fair. It is puple ombre and yellow. I hope to make more to give to the hospital R was born. This one is a preemie sized. I have one edge and a sleeve left. Here is the first one I made for a neighbor:

I picked out another future project for the Knit Picks Simply Cotton yarn in Bermuda Heather that was gifted to me, Leafy Lace Cardigan. I hope it isn't too hard. I am not a huge fan of lace. Here is a photo from the designer's Craftster page. I am order 2 more skeins of this yarn.

Next week, I hope to post an updated fair list. :) Yea!

Stash Busting and Future List

2010-07-27T13:00:00.000-07:00

Hopefully with Christmas looming in the near future I will be able to stash bust. Some of my yarn just has to be used up. There has been yarn purchased for specific projects, gifted yarn and left over yarn. I have 3 skeins of Cotton Fleece in Cotton Ball that will be used for Leaf Yoke Top. It is the one with a really terrible photo. I would have never chose the pattern with this girl modeling it. It is the one with the model with sunglasses, a hand bag, and a belt over the top.

Four skeins of Knit Picks CotLin in Whisker left over from my first Unmentionables. I way over bought so I have been left with 492 yards of yarn without a project, too little or too much for projects. I am purchasing 2 more skeins to make this sweater, Mary Jane:

In HSKS 9 I received 4 skeins of Berroco Comfort Worsted. I thought I could use it for the Mary Jane sweater but decided it was more fitting for the Scoop Pullover. I have about 200 yards more than it requires.

This is really the first time that I have ever enough yarn to make large projects.

I hope to stash bust with Fair projects too.

Weekend in Review

2010-07-26T09:40:00.000-07:00

This weekend was almost productive. I had Friday night to myself because R and Joe went for an overnight stay to fish at the river. R apparently had a blast. They were supposed to be home at 10 am, they got home at 3:30 pm. She had decided 3 fish just wasn't enough she needed to catch more.

While they were gone I cleaned a little. Cleaning my house is something that has been neglected for awhile. I can actually see the top of my dining room table again. Slowly I am getting things put away. I also have been culling for a yard sale. Some of my yarn is going. Mostly it is acrylics. I am sick of my Vanna Baby Choice. I haven't been using it lately, so it is going. Some awful purple fluffy stuff and the banana silk. I have been shoving it around my house since I got it. I, suprisingly, sold the purple and blue mix to a fellow knitter so she could finish up a project. Banana silk was a very expensive lesson.

As I am cleaning I am trying to organize future projects by using gallon size ziplocks. At the beginning of summer I acquired several from places and I started storing WIPs inside them. Depending on where I was going I would just grab a project. It was great until I spilled Dr. Pepper down one. I am trying this method again by labeling and sorting by person or project. So far I have:

R's Ladybug slippers
R's Future secret project (I might try to get it published.)
My sister's socks
My Leaf Yoke Sweater
R's Weasley Sweater
My future sweater, Maybe Mary Ann

That is all I remember.

Now to what I knitted on this weekend. I started my sister's Christmas socks. I have about 3 inches finished. I imagine it will be a good work break project.

I finally finished the Retro Bathing Suit! It is really cute. Still big, but cute. I am hoping that R grows into it. I have some awful photos of her wearing it. She was being very contrary.

I restarted my bubble top sometime last week. Did I even post what happened? I was on the last side decreases (about 5 inches from the beginning of pockets, 15 inches away from CO) when I realized something was very wrong. I knew my numbers were off, but wasn't overly concerned, I thought it was just one extra stitch and I had one decrease round left. So, I was going to compensate. I decided to count the pocket stitches to make sure I chose the ideal place for the decrease so everything would be even. Well, apparently counting was a weakness the day I started the pockets. I, from the very beginning, casted on wrong for the pockets. I did 37 for one and 42 for the other- 42 was correct. I was so flipping mad at myself. I ripped and put it down for a week.

NOW, I am past the pockets and front section with all numbers mostly correct. I think I had 2 or 3 extra stitches. It was all good because I compensated in the bodice increases! I am so happy. The lace looks perfect and I am nearly to the arm holes. Bad news, I am on my last skein of yarn and it is half used. I am not ordering until I completely run out. I have many other projects that can be worked on while I wait for the mail.

Started and frogging the Beauxbatons sweater for Fleur. It is nothing like what I wanted. I did too many raglan increases which gives it a bulky football jeresy look. I wanted a sweater that was fenimine and form-fitting.

Okay, I have resolved my stress knitting situation. I posted the lasted time without my fair listings. The list is so outdated and poorly catergorized that only half of my projects are going to fit.

Here is the revised lists:

Finished-
Fairy hat (hat)
St. Patty's hat (cap)
Nessie (toy)
Fluffy Bunny or Marmalade Kitty (Knitted toy)
Retro bathing suit (other)

To make-
socks?
fingerless mitts (Emerald Mitts with leftover Ultra Pima)
crochet toy? (Pass the Pigs or Owlet, depends on which is easier due to lacking skills in crochet)
pillow cover
purse
dish towl
pot holder
jewelry
doll with clothing
house shoes?

To finish-
Bubble top (sweater- yea! almost there)
baby sweater (infant sweater)

I have a baby hat finshed that I need to find. My "To make" list increase but with small items. I think the pot holder, dish towel and even the purse could be a one day item.

I can't belive how out dated it is, but any who.... The list isn't nearly as daunting now.

Stress Knitting

2010-07-22T11:15:00.000-07:00

It is sad when your knitting stresses you out. I want to make so many things that it drives me insane that it isn't not always possible.

For example, I have to knit Christmas presents. I don't HAVE to but I want to.

Another example, I want to add many many items to the County Fair this year. I have 3 list going- Finished, To be finished, and To make. It is a sad sight.

Finished-
Fairy Hat (adult division)
St. Patty's Day Hat (child division)
Nessie

And that is it. Unless I add my Zero scarf as a finished, which just might happen.

To be finished-
Bubble top
baby blanket (which I hope is big enough to count as afghan)
bathing suit (not sure if there is even a good catergory for it)
Weasley sweater (childs)
baby sweater

To make-
socks?
fingerless mitts
doll with removable clothing
purse
legwarmer (they are being frogged)

Gosh, unless I start making some of these Christmas presents, there is no hope.

It just about makes me sick the fact all of this needs to be finished in a month. This is just the beginning of the list.

I am going to have a short weekend because there is so much I want to do during my 3 days.

Blythe-wear

2010-07-21T09:42:00.000-07:00

My things to make list is getting really long. I have 3 little sweater so make for my Blythes. Penelope and Fleur need "Weasley Sweater" and Fleur needs a Beauxbatons sweater. I will make a sewn silky cloak in grey also. I just read on Wikipedia that the uniforms are made with blue and grey. I thought I remembered the emblem being in gold. I don't actually have any yarn for the two Weasley sweaters, but I can dig up some for my Beauxbatons sweater.

I am going to give the curlers a whirl this weekend. They should be a quick and easy sewing project. I have tons of stuffing that I need to use up too! Side note- I think they will work perfectly. The pipe cleaner curler was a success, so why would fabric ones not be?

I want to make little Halloween costumes for my Blythes. Now that I have three, it is going to be quite a chore. I have ideas already though. I want Penelope to be a octopus, Ginny a pumpkin, and Fleur a pretty witch. (Not to mention I have R's costume to get together too. I am trying to convince her to be Coraline.)

Oh, something else I would like to do is make Blythe-size buttons out of oven bake clay. I have some, I just need to find it. I wish I could take a week off from work and do all of this!

Gosh, all of this I want to do, BUT I need to finish some of my UFOs. *Sighs* With the county fair coming up in September, it means I need to get somethings put together for that. It is my only foreseen source of extra money in the future.

There is just not enough hours in the day.

Later in the day-

I forgot to post about my weird overwhelming urge to knit my Blythes winter clothing. Yes, I am crazy. I think they all need warm coats and hats. I want to make them fluff rimmed bonnets. Why would I want to do this? Who knows.

Ideas

2010-07-20T10:46:00.000-07:00

What has gotten into me? I now want to blog all the time. Strange.

I had a though last night as I was trying to repair the damage to Penelope's bangs after having a wig on, I should my mini hair rollers for my Blythes.

I am not sure if it will even work, but I truly should try it. I was reading on the Big Eyes Little Sweater forum on Ravelry about making the dolls hair curling slightly in boiling water. It was just a dip and please, no one use my info on your Blythe! Of course, I am not up to anything that scary. I was thinking that if I made fabric curlers with just a little stuffing and ties. It would do the trick if they are slightly damp. I have seen a tutorial on how to make them for people somewhere, except I think they had a button rather than ties. It would be better than useing a pipe cleaner as a curler.

I really like the wigs, but it wrecks havoc on the existing hair. Gosh, it was unbelivable what it did to Ginny's hair in just a couple of hours. Now, all three are on my shelf wig-less.

I have seen scalps for custom rooting hair. I asked on the forum if these could have wigs place over the top of them. The person who responded misunderstood me. She thought I was wanting to put a scalp over the existing scalp. Well, I knew better than that. What I really was asking was can a wig fit on a bald scalp without any trouble? I just did not envision at the time how could a wig go over the pre-existing hair. The answer was a wig cap, but gee, it about ruined Ginny and Penelope's hair. Now, I am wondering if I could put a bald scalp on if I want to have one of my dolls wear a wig for an extended period of time to conserve the condition of the original hair. Sometime in the future, probably no time soon, I will order one or two to try it out. If it doesn't work, I can always use it to root hair. I will be worth it.

I hope to start soon on my secret Blythe project!

More thoughts on Christmas gifts

2010-07-20T08:39:00.000-07:00

I have been plotting more seriously about Christmas.

Daddy-

I have been enlisting the help of Claire (Knit Unto Others yarn shop owner) and my mom to help me with ideas for my dad.

These are my options:
             -thick socks
             -vest
             -stash moth

I don't really want to knit a vest. I just do not see myself finishing it.

Momma-

I asked Momma is she wants something useful or a sit around. Her response, "I think I deserve both." Okay, so maybe she does.

These are my options:
                  -selkie change purse
                  -string bean frog
                  -reading glasses hanging case

From: http://www.etsy.com/listing/49103682/string-bean-frog-with-ballerina-and-mime

Husband-

He is such a butt. I ask him what can I make him, "Nothing, I have everything." THEN, he comes up with this "brilliant" idea of me making him a gun cozy. Poor baby's hand nearly freeze to his gun, but he won't wear gloves!!!! I wanted to make him a pair...nooooo...I don't wear gloves. I told him no way am I knitting a gun cozy.

So, there is still no advancement on ideas for him.

R-

I am making her lady bug slipper out of Polar Fleece yarn rather than piggies. I purchase pink yarn rather than purple. I forgot that there wasn't enough purple.

From: http://www.polarknit.com/itoolkit.asp?pg=BABY

Yarn Dyeing, Take 2

2010-07-19T17:31:00.000-07:00

I misread the Potions assignment SO here is a second one.

Pre-soak

Rung out

Dye soak

Steam- ready

Heat up

Cool down

After rinse

Close up

Wondering how I got the twist? This is 77% Bamboo (plant fiber) and 23% Super Wash Merino dyed with red kool-aide. Cool, huh?

OH, I just realized today I have been spelling Dyeing incorrectly....GAH!

Pandora Phelps- Slytherin

Yea for Mail!

2010-07-19T15:48:00.000-07:00

Protego!

2010-07-19T12:01:00.000-07:00

In the HLBOE swap I am in a "wizards duel" with a Pixie Rib Hat. I am pretty sure that I will be curse today via USPS! Here is my finished "protection charm" that is going to Freya Lovegood, modeled by R:

Classic, shirt on backwards with watermelon all down it.

Yarny Yarn Yarn

2010-07-19T11:28:00.000-07:00

I am in a swap called HLBOE on Ravelry. This week's assignment was Potions which we dyed yarn. I blogged previous about my dyeing excursions with food coloring and tie-dye kits. The skein of yarn I choose to dye for the assignment is merino, bamboo and nylon sock yarn. I went ahead and purchased some animal based yarns to use the materials that I have already purchased.

The dye colors were royal blue, orange and yellow (kool-aid). I might have added some purple kool-aid too. Of course blue and orange are oposites of the color wheel. They compliment each other but when you mix them together it mutes the colors. Certain shades of blue and oranges make lovely browns.

I can see the appeal to dyeing wool, it is quick and easy. It was almost instantaneous. I was not even finished squirting dye on it and it was set. However, I had to be careful not to felt it. Cotton, you can scrub it, squish it, swirl it, etc. and it stays the same!

Pre-wash

dye mix

squirting

lots of blue and orange added

heat up

close up

Final product to come soon.

My Three Blythes

2010-07-18T10:20:00.001-07:00

Penelope, Ginny, Fleur

My 3rd Blythe is in Route!

2010-07-15T08:30:00.000-07:00

I just tracked my 3rd Blythe doll. She was reciding in Missouri just one state above me and she is in route! I have already named her, Fleur. Okay, okay, I will admit it. I am naming them after Harry Potter characters- Penelope Clearwater, Ginny Weasley, and Fleur Delacour. It is more of just inspiration, not really after the characters themselves and I dropped the last names.

If I ever get Simply Guava, which will be my last Blythe for the year, her name will be Nymphadora. With pink hair I think it is fitting. I wished that I would have held off on my Simply Mango because now they can be order together with a discount at This is Blythe.

I did just order some wigs. This will be intersting. They are cute and I hope they fit my Takara as well as Ashtond Drakes. I ordered 2 wigs and got one free, a wig cap, an outfit on sale and a re-ment (call me stupid, but I this means reproduction) Little Twin Stars charm set with free shipping. This is officially the last I can spend on my Blythes, especially with Christmas just months away. In fact, I am feeling a little guilty for spending the money.

I plan to take some photos this weekend with the clothing that I have made for them. I hope to write a few more patterns too. I can visualize this shrug that I want to make but the yarn is not corporating or the lace or the needles.... I guess I may have to rethink it completely. I also have a project idea still in the works. It might be my first for sale pattern. It will be useful for dolls or needles....what a combination!

Dream and Christmas

2010-07-14T09:24:00.000-07:00

Last night I dreamed that I finally got the courage to crack open one of my Blythes to customize her. It was a bit strange. I had to wash her up with soap then unscrew her head and then wash her interior also (which I do not think is necessary unless you sand her face). Magically, new eye chips were appearing for me to use. I vaguely remember tools that I could carve her features with also. I found inside of her a second pull cord inside to make her have sleepy eyes or something. I think my coworker was in the dream with me. She customizes doll, just not Blythes.

Then my dream morphed. The second dream was even more strange. At least I was being productive in the first dream.

Christmas lists-

It is about time for me to start thinking about Christmas. I am feeling pressure, but not enough to get me started on them.

Sister- yoga socks, 1 or 2 pairs, maybe a neckwarmer too?
Momma- selky change purse (inside joke)
Daddy- beer cozy? and friendly stash moth?
Brother-I-L- beer cozy and...
Brother- beer cozy and...
Husband-
Daughter- Penelope monster backpack, piggy slippers

From Danger Craft Etsy Shop

I wanted to make my husband, brother, and b-i-l all "stuffed" game. I am sure a bit of explanation is require. All three hunt and I thought it would be funny if I knitted deer heads and mounted them on a board. To me, it would be hillarious. To them, I don't know. I guess I could knit them something boring like hunting gloves. Either way, here are the patterns I have in mind:

Deer

Gloves

I am not sure if my dad would need a stash moth. I am pretty sure he has wool sweater that it would be useful if I decide to do it.

The Penelope backpack, I have plans to alter the pattern just a bit. I tried this once before but I have a new idea since then. This time my idea will work. I will probably use Jeanee Chunky in denim blue and a lilac.

The piggy slipper will be made from Polar Fleece in purple and a Polar Fleece pattern. R's new favorite color is purple.

This topic will be updated in the future!

Blythe Mania

2010-07-13T14:35:00.000-07:00

I just bought another Blythe doll. Silly I know, but it was a really good deal. I purchased Pleasant Peasant off of ebay that included:

Doll + Pleasant Peasant apparel
2 Blythe dress forms
1 blonde curly wig and wig cap
1 outfit with boots
Vintage sewing patterns (one of them was a Skipper pattern!)

This was an outrageously good deal. Wigs run about 18-20 dollars, wig cap is about 3-4 dollars, dress forms are 25 from This is Blythe, and outfit could be 6-15 dollars. I don't know how much Vintage patterns are in retail. I was going to spend about 20 dollars less for just the doll so I am really glad I found this on ebay.

Photo from Amazon.

Updating on Projects

2010-07-12T11:50:00.000-07:00

My project updates are getting a little ridiculous because it is practically the same things!

My new project is Soft Kid Bubble from Boutique Knits book. I am about 9 inches into it. Now I am having to problem solve because I am leaving out the pockets. This was an attempt to conserve yarn because I maybe about 80 yards short and I just think they will stretch and hang funny. That 9 inches is looking very beautiful.

Next project which I thought I was finished with is the Leaf tee. I am going back and putting sleeves in and ribbing along the neck and bottom edges. Everytime I look at it I just feel it is crappy looking and unfininshed. Not just that I felt very frumpy wearing it. I used yarn that had no dye lot and it is very obviously that I did not incorporate it together. I am actually banking on some dye bleeding in the blocking process to make it somewhat uniform. Here is the before pic:

Black Unmentionables are a couple of rounds away from being finished. I am ripping out the BO in the first leg because I think it is too tight for the ruffle. Nothing major, but I am happy to see them nearly finished.

Inamorata, the infamous trouble maker, is still incomplete. I wanted to wear it on 4th of July weekend so I was trying my best to get it finished. I have been crocheting around until I get to the spots that need straps to cut down on finishing time. I have finished the front straps and button holes/buttons and I was rounding to the spot of the back straps. I put the top on so my husband could help me place the straps. I got up without thinking and ripped out 5 inches of crochet. I was so angry I haven't touched it since. It has been nothing but a pain in the rear!!!!

R's retro bathing suit is just about finished!! I can't remember if I have posted about this project. It is so cute; it is a SockPixie pattern that she published with Petite Purls online publication. I am using Cascade Fixation in hot pink and lime green. I am working on the ribbing around the sleeves and the neck and back. R is so tiny that the size 2t is too large, but hopefully this means she can wear it next summer too.

I am continuing writing patterns for my Blythe dolls. Unfortunately, my weekend did not go as planned so nothing new is ready.

I did work on my second batch of cotton yarn that I dyed. I have several more section that need to be rinsed before I post photos. I will post the first attempt at the same time. The tie-dye kit has been working out rather well. I am pretty proud of the finished products.

Shark Hat for Blythe

2010-07-06T12:13:00.000-07:00

Doesn't every doll need a Shark Hat? Well, yes. This pattern has only been tested once. I will soon test it again. It is very likely a flaw or two in my pattern writting skills.

download now

REVISED!

Copyright by Natalie Scrimshire 2010

This is for personal use only. Please do not sell pattern.

I can be reached at nscrimshire@gmail.com or at Ravelry user name- PandoraPhelps.

Bulb Skirt for Blythe

2010-07-06T11:38:00.000-07:00

*Download Pattern*

Blythe is the perfect doll to knit for, she is so versatile and everything looks good on her. This is one of the first items I knitted for my Blythe named Ginny, a Bulb Skirt. It is a quick and simple knit. A perfect beginner magic loop pattern!

Bulb Skirt

Supplies:

US 2 DPNs or US 2 24 inch Circular needles
Fingering weight yarn with elastic
Yarn darning needle

Pattern notes:

Skirt is knitted bottom up. Add ribbing to the waist in the 3 rows before the bind off if yarn does not have elastic. This is a perfect beginner Magic Loop project. Just divide stitches evenly on the needles.

Instructions:

Co 40

Knit 1 round.

Increasing-

*K1, KFB,* repeat to the end.

Knit multiple rounds until desired length.

This example has about 18 rounds.

Decreasing-

*K2tog,* all around.

Knit 2 rounds

*K2tog, K1,* repeat to the end.

Knit 3 rounds.

BO loosely and weave in ends.

Copyright by Natalie Scrimshire 2010

This is for personal use only. Please do not sell pattern. I can be reached at nscrimshire@gmail.com or at Ravelry user name- PandoraPhelps

Appleby Arrows

2010-07-02T20:42:00.000-07:00

After much anticipation, I got my Appleby Arrows package today from HSKS 9.

Containing my excitement I read the note first that explained a few items and gave an apology for tardiness from the lovely Olive Brumblebirch.

I opened the box and what did I see, many little silver wrapped bundles with customized Appleby Arrow labels.

THEN, I ripped, ripped and ripped. R came in and helped me out towards the end. She just knew it was tiresome for me to do it alone....haha.

Here is what Olive sent to me:

4 skeins of Berroco, which I am pretty excited about. Enough yardage to redo the Emmaline pattern.

3 skeins of Knit Picks organic cotton in Heather Wave, Heather Bermuda, and Heather Grey. I just ordered more. I could not have picked any better for myself!

Special Edition Appleby Arrow Stitch makers, beautiful shades of blue and silver!

Appleby Arrow stationary

Handmade accessory bag

Handmade bag, which is gorgeous.

Harmony DPNs in US 9

Interlocking Stitch markers

Cute little owl that is definitely going on my Christmas tree. My tree is homemade/ folksy.

2 items from a local artist in Portland, OR, Lotion bar in Orange and Sage and solid perfume called Dragons Blood. How fitting to the Harry Potter World. The lotion bar is really awesome!

Ashley Hat pattern by Beth Gaiantino

Emerald Fingerless Mitts pattern - a black pepper design

I sincerely apologize if I have forgotten something! I got many wonderful things and I thank you very much!

Cotton dyeing

2010-07-02T19:17:00.000-07:00

Well, I dyed my cotton. It is resting right now letting the dye set. I got a tie dye kit with fuchsia, turquoise, green, yellow, purple. At first it was a little overwhelming but my art skills finally kicked in! The hardest colors to deal with were the green and purple. All of the other colors were pretty easy to get creative with to make surprising colors.

Now, if any of the colors turn out, I guess we will see soon.

Dyeing yarn

2010-07-01T09:28:00.000-07:00

I recently have been attempting to dye cotton yarn with kool-aid and gel food coloring. First attempt was awful. My color washed out. Right now my second attempt is in the works. Sometime this weekend I am going to get a tie-dye kit. I do plan to purchase real dyes but I want to practice on inexpensive products first.

I even thought about dyeing wools. I can wear gloves and mask if the fibers irritate me skin. I think it would be okay.

On Ravelry I have gotten myself set up as a designer. Hopefully I will soon get all of that figured out. Right now I am working on some Blythe doll patterns to publish- the Shark Hat is one and the other a Bulb Skirt. My friend told me that they are also called Tulip Skirts. I will post the patterns here and on Ravelry.

Shark Hat

2010-06-27T17:58:00.000-07:00

She is here!

2010-06-26T16:05:00.000-07:00

My new Blythe is here finally! I am now understanding the differences between the ADG and the Neos. Not extreme but I can see that wigs and eye chips could be a problem. I will post a photo soon!

Frustration and Egyptians

2010-06-24T09:16:00.000-07:00

It was very frustrating last night- I was off my creative game. Only thing I accomplished was to iron my Blythe clothing and sew buttons on the back of the garnment. I attempted to work on the Forest and Frill shrug (yes, I cheated. I have already started.) and it just felt too clumsy. I tried to make quick satisfing clothing from felt and that bombed completely.

I am hoping that tonight I am back on a good track.

I want to retry the Blythe quick clothing. I have some really cute ideas that felt (although not quaility material, but who cares) would be ideal to use.

Now to Egyptians.

At the Arkansas Arts Center there has been an exhibit called Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt. I have been very excited about it but thus far have been unable to attend it. This weekend is practically my last chance- it ends on July 3rd.

I am forcing my husband to go and R loves Egyptian related things, but to her it is all King Tut. I am hoping that this is a much better experience to the King Tutankhamun exhibit in Dallas. I was pretty disappointed with the overall operation of that one. I also felt like that it was not quite advertised accurately.

Now that I bought my second Blythe doll, I am not sure if I can afford any 'relics' from the gift shop. I love art center or museum gift shops. I always find the best books and jewelry for decent prices. I have started a collection of Egyptian topiced books and jewelry. My last birthday I received a sterling silver scarab necklace from the Dallas Art Center. I should photograph the jewelry sometime.

Why yes, yes I am crazy.

2010-06-22T09:03:00.000-07:00

I just order my second Blythe doll. I have suspicion I will be very in trouble with the mother and husband.

She is apparently a reproduction of the original Blythe doll produced by Kenner.

I don't really care about all of that except for she is pretty and a bit less expensive as my previous one.

I bought R a mini Blythe statuette. I wish I could find a cheap priced petite Blythe.

R is getting the cute little ballerina doll.

*Photos from http://www.thisisblythe.com/

Gryffindor Ginny

2010-06-21T20:19:00.000-07:00

My Blythe, named Ginny, in her jeans and Gryffindor sweater that was a gift from Mrs.Mamma in December Reducio swap.

I did some very brave altering for it to fit Ginny just right!

Projects

2010-06-21T13:27:00.001-07:00

Another project update-

I am still working on mostly the same projects as last time. I am about sick of them. I am truly trying to force myself to get these finished before starting anything new.

I have the straps and the crocheting left on the Inamortia top. It has been the biggest pain in the ass. I finally admitted that I was running out of yarn so I had incorporate a second color. I truly want this finished by 4th of July so I can wear it.

The black unmentionables are slowly getting there. I work on them in the car mostly. I am about finished with the belly and waist area.

I think this is a new project since my last post, Summer leaf tee. It is going rather well. I have had to order yarn to finish it. I was fortunate enough to find some for a fair price. I am pretty excited, I am about to finish this project today! Two or 3 row and then the BO! I am absolutely wearing it tomorrow.

I plan to start on a shrug called Forrest and Frills (it is the very last *for sale patterns* on the right) soon. I am hoping to use my J.C. Brett Marble Chunky yarn. Once again, I may not have enough yarn. Lately, that has been the story of my knitting life. Good news is that my LYS carries it.

There has been a couple of side projects along the way. I made a hat called Orchids and Fairy Lights (same link as above, 7th pattern down) with my Misti Alpaca Cotton/Silk. I have been saving this skein for 2 years for the perfect project. I have another skein in pale pink which is going to be a smaller version of this hat for R.

I am attempting to write a pattern for my Niffler.

I have a clothing series for my Blythe doll in the works. She is going to be decked out in Alice in Wonderland themed costumes. I am contemplating order a second Blythe. I am useing various yarns in my stash.

Another new pattern I want to make is a Leaf Yoked top. Lace isn't my friend but I want this top oh so bad. I just bought 3 skeins of Brown Sheep Cotton Fleece for it in Cotton Ball color.

Ah, I also want to make the Rusted Root sweater. There is so very little time and too many patterns. Well, I have too little patience too. I want to take a bit of a break on big projects after the 2nd undercrackers and leaf sweater.

Swap-
I signed back up for HLBOE. I am pretty excited. I have been digging around through my stash of items. I think I am ready to get start soon.

Creepy Crescent Hotel

2010-06-08T13:37:00.000-07:00

I went to Eureka Spring, AR again this year, but this time I got to stay in the Crescent Hotel. A beautiful Victorian age hotel (it had been stripped of the Victorian fixtures and what not by a stupid previous owner) which has a very colorful past.

The hotel runs a nightly Ghost Tour. Of course with it beginning an old building many deaths have occurred. A couple examples, a young woman who was a student when the hotel was a school in the off time was pushed or jumped from the 4th floor observation deck. * She was unwed and pregnant. Another, a yound girl fell over the 3rd floor banister and hit the bottom floor.* She is rumored to still haunt that floor.

The stupid owner ran a cancer hospital in the 1930s (I think) with questionable practices. There is still the area that he used as a morgue and on the tour you get to go down there.*

T.A.P.S. team investigated the Crescent Hotel. (There is a video of it posted on YouTube but I don't know if it is violating copyright laws. If you want to see it, go there.) They got this amazing infared footage of a figure on an army footlocker.

All along on the tour, I wasn't really seeing any validation to any of the stories we were being told by the tour guide. I was still pretty skeptical even in the morgue. I was actually standing right in front of that footlocker when I felt something behind me and I was in that room alone. It sent a tingle up my spine. I contributed it to nerves.

Then we had a lights out section. I stood up against a wall and then had something poking my legs. Which, I took a photo of my legs right afterwards and I have this weird smug area. I didn't have anything on me after the shot. it is hard to see, but it is on my left leg.

I had something pull my hair too, but nothing came up in the photo.

I caught some other photos of orbs. They were constantly around our tour guide. I wonder if he was something familiar to the ghost so they are drawn to him. Here is one:

Right leg

One last thought on my ghost experience. When my parents were building the house I grew up in, a elderly Native Indian man told my parents that they were building the house on an indian burial site. Of course, this could be true because it was on the Ouchita River area where is was said that Caddo Indians did live. This could have just as easily been a falsehood too. I learned this story when I was a bit older, but before then I had been experiences a presence and shadows. I was convinced that it was an indian man. I liked this idea.

Strange thing is I never shared this with my family until about 4 or 5 years ago. Turns out my mom and my brother were having the same experiences. My brother has seen an indian man and a man with a beard. My mom one night fell asleep on the couch. She got up to go to bed and saw a man coming towards her. Thinking it was my dad she called his name. My dad was sound asleep in the bed.

Feeling what I did in the morgue reminded me of the sensations I would get at my home by myself. It was a bit of a shock.
It was a really fun time over all. I got super excited when I realized that the hotel had working cats! They are mousers!

Maybe a snap dragon? They grew out of the rock walls. Whatever they are, they are cute!

*Please go to this website for more accurate information. http://www.crescent-hotel.com/ghosts/index.html

Knitting up a storm

2010-05-18T12:22:00.000-07:00

I am in the process of taking a hiatus from swapping. It is amazing what I can do when knitting for no one but me. I have made a pair of Unmentionables, which I call "Grey Undercrackers" on my project page on Ravelry. I made my first sweater Emmaline (simply called Emmaline on my project page) which I had to deviate from the pattern significantly. Once I got past the bust I realized it was not going to fit me properly. I have started, got nearly finished, and frogged Inamorata (Inamorata in Violet). It is back on the needles. Once again, I got WAY past the bust and realized it was not going to fit. I must have larger nungas that I thought.

Unmentionables-
Wow, they feel really nice. They are on my butt right now. In fact they inspired this blog posting. I am planning to make another pair real soon for myself but first I am going to make R a pair from the little girl companion pattern. Her's will be made out of Kraemer Little Pebbles yarn in yellow.

My next pair are going to be made out of Cascade Ultra Pima Cotton in black. Ah...it is so so soft. I had a moment of fear while knitting my grey pair (Knit Picks CotLin in whisker) that they were going to be too tight. Fortunately, they fit. I was going to make the black pair in medium, which I have changed my mind. While wearing them today they have steadily stretched to prefection.

Emmaline-

Cute, Easy, and Quick. I am a bit opposed to the fact it is spring/summer top in bulky weight yarn but it will be a nice fall top. Arkansas weather allows very little time to wear something of this nature during spring.

My fitting problem was that the decreasing in the bust area to make it a empire waist was going to be too tight for me. I have a larger rib cage from pregnancy. On my 5 foot frame my tiny baby had no room to grow and it causeed my rib cage to expand to the medium/large sizing of the pattern when I am a small up top.

I would like to make this sweater again. I think I can compensate early on in the pattern, now that I know, for the medium size for the empire waist. This would be nice for my belly area too.

Imamorata-

Oh, well this was my mistake. It is what I get when I check gauge. My gauge was a bit large than the specifications for the pattern so I though I could make the XS size and be fine. Well, I was wrong. This time my bustline was too large. GAH! I ripped the whole thing out and started over. This time I am omitting the cable. It will be a time saver and it really didn't look very good.

I am using Twilleys of Stamford Freedom Gorgeous in deep violet.

HLBOE Term 4-

This term the subject is Fantastic Beast. I have a lot of ideas! I am hoping my swap mate will choose something that I know I can pull off really successfully. I am feeling pretty rejuvenated. I am going to start really soon on the little things that can go into any house package.

I am coming back to Hogwarts as a Slytherin. I have been a Gryffindor for all of the swaps and I am ready for a change. It is a bit hard to let go, but I would really love to put together a package for a Gryffindor!

Angel package from Freya

2010-04-29T14:27:00.000-07:00

Freya Lovegood is a true angel. I received the most wonderful HLBOE package.

The package contained:

3 packets of coffee in Blueberry Crumble, Chocolate Nirvana, and Vanilla Almond...Yummy Yummy!
Albanese dark chocolate fudge (not pictured, went directly into the fridge!)
Albanese gummy bears
Albanese Candy Factory brochure
Crown Point, IN map (It looks like a very lovely place to live.)
Blood pops!
Droobles Best Blowing Gum!
Precious bird nest stationary....You must of known that I am also scrounging for note cards for swaps!
Pink Owl list and place marker paper
Green list paper with matching little notebook (Some little girl was eyeballing these items already!)
Pink and Yellow Owl tin (which matches the stationary paper) with surprises tucked inside!
Exploding frog soap was on top,
then Crochet Snitch bookmarker (Love) and
a Gryffindor pouch with a stitch marker bracelet from my wish list!

New Knits on the Block book by Vickie Howell, wow, great children patterns!
2 skeins of I Love This Cotton! very pretty color way that I think I am going to make R something from it.
Berroco Sock Yarn, my first Berroco yarn. It is so soft!

BEAUTIFUL necklet scarf! I love it so much! The color is as rich and it feels....
And last but not least for me, a nice note from Freya.

R's goodies
Yes, enough to make a separate list.

3 pack of Little Pet Shops....aka Sweethearts
Little Pet Shop activity book
Lady Bug Necklace kit
The cutest crocheted Owl that has been named Hedwig

She was so excited that first thing we had to get the pictures taken! Right after, things were being ripped into!

Thank you so much Freya. You have no idea how much I appreciate everything you have given me.

New Doll

2010-04-15T10:28:00.000-07:00

So, I took a plunge. I am now the proud owner of a Blythe doll. I purchased the Simply Mango set. She came with a precious little chihuahua even. Her name is Ginny mildly after Ginny Weasely.

At first it was a bit scary to change her eye color with the pull string but it is fun. Why don't all dolls have changing eye color?

Something I have noticed as far as knitting patterns, there are very few. Sewing patterns, wow, there are tons and for free! I have written one knitting pattern thus far. I am going to knit it a few more times to make sure it is bug free.

I made the most adorable "Weasely Sweater" and Gryffindor scarf. I am working on Ginny's Beehive hat from the GOF but I am unsure it is going to work out. I made an accidently sweater dress for her also. The accident was that I made it too small for R's elephant. Photos coming soon.

To do list:

2010-03-29T13:46:00.001-07:00

Finish Alpha Phi Alpha scarf
start Nessie
finish kitty for Claire

Retro Cardi

2010-03-23T12:06:00.001-07:00

Retro Cardi
Originally uploaded by pandoraphelps

Retro cardi on my doll Lulu. Pattern by SockPixie.

Suffering Blog

2010-03-18T11:12:00.000-07:00

I have been really neglecting my blog as of late. Nothing has come to me to write about. I started a few but they went no where.

I have been in a knitting funk. I guess it is all the spring air we are having in Arkansas. I've got to finish up my commissions. I am sick of them.

I have been knitting an adorable sweater by SockPixie. Check out her complete blog: http://sockpixie.blogspot.com/ . I am using her pattern Retro Cardi. I am axiously awaiting the child and adult versions. It just maybe my first real person sweater.

I participated in Ravelympics and accomplished my goals and more.... I have some really cute monster and creatures. I wish I didn't give up my whale (narwhal, I was afraid to give it with the tooth to an unknown child or home), but it was for a good cause. I donated him to my county foster program for a Valentine present.

Hmm...that is about it.