Love Knitting

Crocheted Flowers

2010-09-19T08:18:00.000-07:00

These are flowers that I crochet for my daughter. Only the big light pink one is for myself. My daughter and I have long hair so hair accessories are necessary for us. I'd like to use leftover yarn to make them become beautiful hair accessories. Though these are small objects, they are like my other big knitting or crochet objects that make me feel so happy to wear them. But my daughter seemed not to like them much. She only used them one or two times, then perserving them in the drawer.

Catch up

2010-09-19T07:39:00.000-07:00

It didn't take me much time to reknit the rib rim that I ripped out. Finally front and back pieces were done. Then it is time to sew them and finish the V neck and arm edges. It would be off the needles soon!

Rip Out

2010-09-14T07:42:00.000-07:00

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I've finished the front and back pieces of this blue vest. But finally my teacher told me that I made a big mistake. I shouldn't start the rib rim with waste yarn.The real way is to cast on with waste yarn, knitting stockinette st. and then rip out waste yarn to knit rib rim. Even though my teacher tried to sew the wrong rib part, it still looked one stitch different and weird. So finally she said I'd better to cut the rib rim and knit it again. It seemed that I had no choice. She helped cut the rib part and I reknit it. Since it would be given to my best friend before Oct.5, there's not much time left. So I have to try my best to catch up where it was ripped out.

My Best Friend's Birthday Gift

2010-09-08T21:30:00.000-07:00

This is just a samll part of my currently knitting work, a vest. It's for my best friend's birthday gift.Since wanting to give him a surprise, I won't show much of it now. After it is finished , I promise to let you see more and tell more about this vest.

Berets

2010-04-11T02:37:00.000-07:00

Hats are always not my favorite objects. Since Taiwan is not so cold, especially I live in the southern Taiwan; most time here is considered warm. So hats are not so useful for me. But I knitted several hats for myself and my children before, which just because the beautiful pattern caught my eyes, not because we did need them.

So does these two berets. I never wore berets before and honestly, I didn't even know how to wear it when the first time seeing the sample beret in my knitting teacher's house. Again not needing them , I just wanted to have a beret so I gave it a try.

According to the sample beret, It was made of knitting wool. It was my first time to see knitting wool , which was thicker than average yarn. So I had to use crochet hook #8 to make it.

The pattern was easy. It only took me an afternoon to finish the first one, which was the knitting wool. The next day, I thought to try my two leftover Nero yarn. They beautiful color might show well in this beret. And it did.

Last winter, I put on the Nero beret more often than the knitting wool one. They both are cozy , warm and gorgeous. But I like variegated one more.

Marry Him!!

2010-04-06T07:20:00.000-07:00

This is my daughter carrying a heart-shaped sign which says "Marry Him" in Chinese. The idea came from one of my male colleagues who wanted to propose to his girl friend. They have been dating for almost 6 years so he thinks it is time to propose to her now. In order to give her unforgettable and romantic memory, he plans to collect 99 snapshots of people who she knows carrying this "Marry Him" sign ,and then posts all these snapshots on a big heart- shaped board to propose. How romantic,isn't it?

My two children also know my colleague and his girl friend well since we've gone out with them to catch fishes, small shrimp and pick seaweed for several times. So my colleague also hope my two babies can help doing this. Definately, no problems.

This afternoon after school, I took them to a park nearby and was ready to snapshot them. In the beginning, they felt shy to carry the sign because many people exercised around. They asked" Mom, could we hide our faces?" I answered " absolutely, no" . They still felt uneasy so I had to say good words to them such as,if uncle marrys aunt successfully, you guys really do him a big favor. My son was still reluctant but my daughter got coorperated more. Finally I could snap some photos of them carrying the sign and post this three funny pictures to share with you.

My Daughter's Crochet Vest

2010-03-31T20:38:00.001-07:00

This is a crochet vest I made for my daughter. Except my knitting homework,I didn't have much time to do extra knitting or crocheting. Why I decided to crochet this vest? The reason is that the pattern looks easy and it really is. The original pattern is for an adult so I have to modify it for my 10-year-old daughter.

I spent about one week to finish it. First, crocheting four squares , connecting them together ( it would become a circle) and then keep on working same pattern till the length you prefer. No need to shape the armhole and neckline. When you put it on , the neckline and armhole will just turn up. It is easy.

It looks neat and gorgeous when just finished. However, after wore one month, it made pills. The fuzz balls can be easily seen in the vest. Though never expecting fuzz balls won't show up, I just don't expect them so quickly.

Kumquat

2010-03-29T00:55:00.000-07:00

One day I happened to see a blog that introduced how to make sweet kumquats.We, Taiwanese, think sweet kumquats pouring with hot water can cure coughing. In addition, drinking hot sweet kumquat tea can make your body warm in cold winter days.I knew that but never did it before. Last week, I happened to see that blog.The sweet yellow kumquat color caught not only my eyes but also my heart. So I made up my mind to give it a try.

Kumquats are abounded from Jan. to Mar. . So they are almost not seen in market now.Just right before giving up looking for them in the market, I spotted a fruit stand selling the cut little yellow things. It was as if founding pirates' treasure in the secret mountain.So thrilled!

I didn't buy many( about 600g) since it was the first try. Wash them, dry them with kitchen paper and cut four lines on each one that makes juice come out. Then Put them in the pot with sugar, maltose and some water( you can use wine ,too). Cook and stir them for 20 mins. It was done! You can preserve them in a clean and dry glass bottle for 2-3 months in the refrigerator.

See the cooked sweet kumquats pouring with hot water looks so yummy. I can't wait to sip its sweet yet a bit sour flavors!

Pink Pullover

2010-03-24T00:35:00.000-07:00

This FO is my NAC knitting project, also my homework. Its key learning point is the crochet edge in V neckline, sleeves and bottom. I had to crochet the V-neckline first and measure its gauge for sleeves and bottom edge, then after finishing body knitting part ,just picking up stitches from the pieces and crochet the edge pattern.
As for the body knitting part, the pattern was changed by me. I just didn't like the original pattern and my knitting teacher said I could find other one that I liked. So I find the pattern and modified the eyelets a bit far from each other as you can see now.If not, it would be too many eyelets and people could see "through" me.

This is the first FO since I changed a new knitting teacher. This new teacher emphasizes on small details that are easily neglected by students. And that really matches my thought. knitting or crocheting are not hard for most knitters but the small parts,such as how to sew sleeves neatly, how to shape armhole, neckline beautifully and how to measure gauge precisely are the real skill. That is what I want to learn from a teacher. Luckily, I've found a teacher, who is really the one I've longed for. I truly believe she has much that I could learn from.

Vest

2009-12-11T23:58:00.000-08:00

Before I never though a vest could be my type , including knitting and crochet style, not long ago I saw this crochet vest sample in my knitting teacher's house and tried on it. Well, it looked not bad on me and the pattern looked easy to work with so then I decide to give it a try.

The vest sample that my knitting teacher owned is deep purple colour but she suggested me to try this multicolored yarn.I like this yarn more than the sample one's.

This patten looked easy and it is also easy to work with.I totally spent 5 days to finish it. If not I still have other projects on hands, it would be done less than 5 days.

I used the same yarn, just different color and have the same gauge that the pattern called for. However, mine came out smaller than the sample one. d,could be I changed my gauge when crocheting.After I wore it several times, it became a bit loose ,though still smaller than the sample one, but it fit me better.

Small Cardigan

2009-10-14T22:58:00.000-07:00

Yarn: 100%cotton
Tool: addi#5+ addi#3 circular
Pattern: Modified pattern

This small cardigan is original a pullover. I like the pattern, easy and good looking but I usually wear sleeveless dress with a small cardign so pullover for me is not practical.Hence,I decided to modify it a small cardigan.

The pattern was drawn again according to my size.Because the pattern is easy, I don't spend much time to get it off the needle. And finally, it turns out quite good.

Purple Red Crochet Lace Cardigan

2009-07-15T05:50:00.000-07:00

This is my new finished small lace crochet cardigan, which was made from purple red color cotton. I modified much of the pattern, shortened the body length and change the hem design. This pattern is only two pineapple patterns in the shoulder part. For body part, only chains are crocheted. It looks easy and it is. That's why I chosed it. It only tooks me four nights to finish. For a crocheter,like me, doesn't have much time in knittng and crocheting. This pattern is undoubtedly a good choice!

It is really my style. Lately I bought a stripe dress and needed a small cardigan to cover my thick shoulder and strong arm. This model is my colleauge, who is thiner than me so this samll cardigan looks a bit bigger on her but it fits me well.

Today I put on it to my office. One of my colleagues likes it very much and asked me if I could crochet one for her.She would pay me.That really bothers me because I don't knit or crochet for money; it is just my habit. Finally, I said "sorry" to her.

Crochet Lace Garment Finished

2009-07-02T05:26:00.000-07:00

This crochet lace garment is finished. I didn't spend much time on it. Crochet is never a problem for me. Since I was little, my mom taught me crochet. And I like it .

This work just needs two same crochet pieces connecting together and then it is done. I thought it was easy in the beginning.However, the pattern was drew a bit complicated. Sometimes I had to stop to check out the pattern , and I did ripe out several times

I like how it came out. It is really my type. In hot summer here, this crochet garment would be very useful for me.

Fun photos of my modle when snapshot.

Unfinished Lace Crochet

2009-06-26T16:40:00.000-07:00

This is the crochet lace I am working right now. These photos were taken while the first piece were finished.This crochet lace work needs to finish two same pieces and connect them together. Then it is done. Easy and fun!!

I got this pattern from my knitting teacher and also bought this linen and cotton blending yarn from her. Acutally grey is not my favorite color and this is my first time to try grey. Though I still not quite like it, hope that trying new color might give me surprise.

It is not hard to crochet this piece but when about to finish the second piece, I found that one raw was skiped by me. I want to neglect it because am lazy to go back. But finally I still decide to go back to the skiped raw and start again. Soon it is going to be off the hook. I will post the finished lace topover very soon!

Pink Lace

2009-06-08T04:53:00.000-07:00

Yarn: 100% light pink silk 7 balls

Tool: addi #5 60cm circular , Clover crochet hook #4

Pattern: Modified by me from a Japanese pattern

This is a pattern modified by me from a Japanese pattern. I made the length longer than the pattern called for. The neck hem, arm hem and down hem are also changed to crochet finish. Now in Taiwan,it is popular to put on garment longer than butt . So I intend to knit this pink lace longer.

As you can see, this pattern is easy- just repeats the pattern to your desired length. Then it is done! Easy and fun to knit. I used 7 silk yarn balls to finish it. Really expensive!! But it is worth the price and the labor. It comes out just what I want!

Gauge

2009-05-15T15:55:00.000-07:00

These are gauges of my new knitting. The new summer pullover would combine knitting and crocheting. So I need two gauges,crocheting and knitting ones. Egypt Cotton yarn is my choice because summer is coming.

This is the V neck crocheting. After the V neck stitches are decreased , this crocheting edge would be sewed to the V neck. Not only V neck but also short sleeves hem and bottom hem would be crocheted. So this is a project combining knitting and crocheting.

This is body part gauge.It is original from a pattern book . Though cotton is good for summer, sometimes it is still hot to put on cotton garment. So I hope my nwe summer knitting would have some eyelets to feel nice and cool but not so many small "holes" in my body.Hence I do some modifications, lessen the eyelets.As you can see, this gauge is very like stockin st except every 10 rows have to make eyelets. It is easy and fast to knit it. Now I've finished the back piece. Soon I could finish this project.

Cashmere Scarf Part II

2009-04-07T08:04:00.000-07:00

This scarf was knitted with 100% cashmere yarn. It is for a colleague's mother. He paid me to knit for his mother. I used 4 balls of cashmere yarn. The pattern was from a 1000- patterned book. I choosed this pattern for his mother easy to maintain.

Thanks for my colleague to be my beautiful model.

My Purple Sweater

2009-03-14T06:14:00.000-07:00

yarn: Purple wool 10 balls
Tool : addi#5 and addi#3 circular
Pattern : My own

This is my newly finished sweater. Actually, I started it since last Sep. but I promised my friend to knit him a sweater. He visited Taiwan last Jan. so I stopped this purple sweater to cast on his blue sweater. Until this Jan. after finishing his sweater,I picked up this purple one again but I knitted and then stopped a while. So only two sleeves ( front and back pieces had finished last year)spent me almost one and half months. Finial edge (neck line, wrist ,etc)also takes me about two weeks to finish. I am really not an efficient knitter.

About this pattern, I referred to my knitting book first and rewrite it with my own idea. So that's what you look now.The original pattern only showed the chest V pattern but my rewritten wrist edge and downside hem are horizontal pattern, which took me much time to rearrange the pattern. This is the hardest part of this pattern. After patterns are well rewritten, knitting went smoothly.

This purple yarn is lace yarn,very thin .I like it very much and can't take my eyes away from its beautiful purple color and soft touch. So what I can do is to knit it two strands. Even so I still use addi#5 to cast on. Maybe due to soft and thin lace yarn knitted with small size needle,this sweater turned out very delicate and exquisite. Though small needles really drove me crazy but it is really worth .

Blue Sweater

2009-01-18T03:43:00.000-08:00

Yarn: Blue wool yarn 16 balls

Pattern: My own

Tool : addi#6 80cm,60cm,40cm addi#4 80cm

Length: 55cm

Width: 54cm

Sleef lengh: 57cm

This is a sweater for a friend of mine. It is also my NAC knitting homewok.While the first time I saw the pattern, it looked an uneasy project, many different patterns combining together. I felt a bit worry that I might not finish this complicated sweater before my friend comes to visit me on January . I started it at the beginning of last October so that I might could finish it in time.
This sweater was circle knitted under chest part,namely, under chest part, front and back pieces are circle knitting.Then knit back and front pieces separately from chest part ,and sew shoulder and then pick up stitches for sleeves.

It looks hard to knit but after knitting it, I am wrong! It is easy and fun to knit. After some raws,I can easily memorize the pattern, just followed the established pattern. Easy!
So now I am sure that I can finish it in time.

This sweater was just finished. I am so happy that this seemed never finished sweater finially to get off the needles.It is big and combines several different patterns and the colour is dark blue. That all makes the project tough for me.But now I am so happy and proud of myself. This project is really a challenge to myself (and also to my eyes!). It finally turns out so great. After finishing this sweater, I think I am a patient knitter now!

Cashmere Scarf

2008-12-12T04:40:00.000-08:00

I've finished this cashmere scarf , which is for my colleague's wife. Considering his wife might not know how to block it after washing it, I decided to knit a moss- stitched scarf which is easy for his wife to take care .

I knit a very simple moss stitch pattern with this cashmere yarn, just a bit design, which is beveled edge in the two ends. For this, I hope it makes this scarf look not so monotonous, having something different. And finally, it come out what I wish!

I am hoping my colleague's wife will like it. Then next, I should start my colleague's morther's scarf. He said his mother and wife are two important people in his life so both of them should get their Christmas scarves! Of course, he will pay me to knit!

My Recent Knitting

2008-11-12T21:39:00.000-08:00

This is a deep blue sweater I knit for a friend. It is also my NAC knitting homework. In Taiwan, specially in southern Taiwan, even in winter, the weather is not so cold so usually we don't have many chances to wear sweater. I have a friend who lives in Seattle USA. When my knitting teacher assigned this garment to be our homework, he is the first one that I think I could knit for.

This sweater was circle knitted under chest part,namely, under chest part, front and back pieces are circle knitting.Then knit back and front pieces separately from chest part ,and sew shoulder and then pick up stitches for sleeves.
It looks and sounds hard but after knitting it, I am wrong! It is easy and fun to knit. After some raws,I can easily memorize the pattern, just followed the established pattern. Easy!

Now I am sure that I can finish it in one month . That would be in the end of Nov.

This is 100% cashmere yarn.One ball costs NT$880 (about US$30) and only 20g,80yards. Cashmere is known for it high quailty, soft and warm. But it is pricy. I never ever think to knit with cashmere yarn. But I bought this 3 balls cashmere and knitted it, not for me but for my colleagues's wife.

Two days ago, one of my male colleague came to ask me whether I could knit a scarf for his wife as a gift. I said" No problem". Than he paid me NT$3000(about US $100) before hand to knit the scarf . I was a bit shocked by such huge amount of money just for a scarf. So I decided to knit a cashmere scarf for his wife.
There are many scarf patterns, lace and cable, came up in my mind. However,lace should be blocked every time after washed . Cable usually use much yarn and cashmere is so pricy.Finally I decied to knit moss stitch. It is easy to knit ,won't use too much yarn and no need to block.

I don't follow any pattern,just try to design my own pattern and might wirte up it later if I have time.So far,4 inches length has done. I made the end sharp, the way like we cut the end of ribbon sharp because all moss stitch would look monotonous. I want it to be a bit different. Hopefully, it will turn out the way I desire.

My Daughter's First Knitting

2008-10-30T05:31:00.000-07:00

As a mom who likes knitting badly can hardly stand her only daughter can’t knit( well,at least she must know knit and purl). I design this simple pattern scarf for her summer vacation homework but she knitted one hour ,stopping one week so surely couldn’t finish her knitting homework during summer vacation.
Finally,it was off needles last week. I might be happier than her.After washing and blocking it,we are happy how it comes out though you can see the stitches are not even.
I never think my daughter is happy in knitting but while I try to suggest that next time she might could knit a hat. She urges me to find a hat pattern for her immediately, which surprises me!!Has she fallen in love with knitting yet? I hope so.

Flower Magnets

2008-06-17T20:27:00.000-07:00

Yarn: stash yarns

Tool: Clover hooks

Pattern: My own

Last April I went to Seattle to visit my friends. In his garden there are pink and yellow tulips,and daffodils. In Taiwan, tulips and daffodils are not popular and are small. I never see tulips from birdview so I took several close-up photos of tulips from birdview.

My American friend will go back to Seattle at July and will layover in Taiwan for 10 hours. I will go meet him and give him these tulips and daffodils magnets (copy from his tulips and daffodils in his garden)to thank his kindness while I stayed in the States.

It is fun to crochet flower magnets. After finishing the tulip and daffodil magnets, I am addicted to make flower magnets so I also crochet a pompon,rose and sun flowers. It is really fun and interesting to make them.

Just stick a magnet in the finished flower. It is done. So easy and so much fun!!

A close-up photo of all flower magnets in my refrigerator.

Monica as a flower girl

2008-06-02T15:47:00.001-07:00

Before the wedding, I help Monica to dress up

She is like a little princess

Monica and I

In front of groom's house before we headed to the bride's house

Monia and the bride

Pink Pullover

2008-05-30T05:02:00.001-07:00

Yarn: Pink cotton ( two strands knit) 8 balls

Needles : addi #5 circular

Pattern : Wicked Eyelet Rib Vest

I've not updated my blog for long time because writing English spends me more time than writing Chinese does. So I spend more time in my Chinese Blog than this English blog(See my Chinese Blog here- Annie's Knitting blog).Also I seldom visit English friends' blogs lately. Sorry I should visit your blogs often and I will now.

This pink pullover is my latest FO. I saw the pattern first time here but it is too short and the pattern is not my style so I decided to modify it to be my style. I went to Seattle last April .Before going ,I was hurry to drew the draft in order to knit it in the plane or had layovers in the airport.
It was a simple vest pattern so I thought it might could be finished during my travel in Seattle but it wasn't. After back for 2 weeks, I finished it.Though I am quite happy how it comes out, there are some disadvantages of it, such as the arm holes should be smaller,the neck line should be lower.If these could be modified , it will be better.Well, lessen learned.

I tie a ribbon butterfly in work days. If wearing jeans, I take off the ribbon to feel more relaxing.

I've learned knitting for a while.Sometimes fantastic patterns from books or internet are not my style but they are so impressed. So I like to modify them to be more suitable for myself, which also makes me feel like it is my own pattern.

We are knitting

2008-02-05T06:47:00.000-08:00

I start to teach my daughter,Monica, second grade in elementary school now, to knit but she seems not to like knitting so much. However I insist she has to learn.I am knitting my son's vest. Monica is practicing.

Hats and Scarf

2008-01-24T16:35:00.000-08:00

Yarn: light purple wool 2 balls
Needles : addi circular #10 (for hat) DPN #5 and Clover crochet#5 (for flower)
Patterb: from my Knitting teacher
Duration: 2 days

In Taiwan we don't have many chances to wear hats except cold days. When the first time I saw this hat, I was so impressed by it and decided to knit it.

This hat is very easy to knit as you can see it just have " knit and purl" for the hat, but the flower is a bit of work. It has to be finished by using the crochet and circular and at last the furry ball.

It is a bit work but turn out a beautiful flower !

Yarn: Black wool Scarf 3.5 balls Hat 2 balls

Needle: addi#8 for edge, addi #10 main part
Pattern: Japanese patter

Duration: 4 weeks

This hat and scarf is for my Seattle friend.I usually don't knit black yarn because it is hard to find wrong stitches. So I never ever knit black. When I asked him what colour he liked,he replied" black".I............wondered why he picked BLACK ..............

Since he likes black, I find this easy pattern to knit. Because it is easy , finding the wrong stitches will be easier.

In Taiwan, if I want to gift my friends scarfs or hats, they usually said" no, thank you. it was hot in Taiwan. We didn't need scarfs or hats." But this Seattle friend said" ohh.. I needed your scarf. In Seattle ,winter was usually cold. Even at home ,I wrapped scarf ,too" His words really inspired me.He needs my scarf and hat. I was happy to knit them and done it quicker than other FO

Works

2008-01-19T05:28:00.000-08:00

This is my father's colour knitting vest.

This is a crocheted work. This shawl can wrape in many differemt ways.I like it very much.

This scarf is for my ISE#5 exchange pal Marti and I am very happy Marti likes it.

Receiving My ISE#5 Scarf

2008-01-05T19:44:00.000-08:00

I received my ISE#5 scarf yesterday. Since my original exchange pal suffered sever snowstorm in the States several weeks ago, she couldn't finish my scarf. So my lovely angel,Marilyn , flies to me!! Thanks for Marilyn's beautiful knitting. Without her kindness, I will be very frustrated.

Marilyn knitted me an orange-red colored cotton scarf.It was about 100 cm( 34") after blocked . The length is just what I need. The color is my favorite. Marilyn has done an amazing job for me!!

Marilyn also sent me a hand cream, a chocolate, two colour knitting books, one same orange-red colored cotton yarn and this Purple hand-dyed yarn( I think it is a socks yarn). The chocolate is for my children. I love this purple yarn VERY much.Still have no idea what to knit, but I am sure when I find a really good pattern, I am going to knit it.

Big thank for you Marilyn!!

Green Pullover

2007-11-15T15:12:00.000-08:00

Yarn:100% Cotton 6 balls

color: Green

Pattern: Mine

Needle : Clover #5 24"circular

Length: 21"

Width: 19" (after blocked)

This is the first time I try to design my garment,but I still need my knitting teacher's help to finish it.

I use crochet pattern to make the neck hem.As for body,in order to not to look monotonous, I knit cross stitches that is easy yet unique.For this is a summer pullover,I knit small sleeves just to cover my fat arms.The length is knid of short. Maybe I should add 1" more.

It is fun to knit this garment and I like how it turn out.

ISE#5 Fox Eyes Lace Scarf

2007-09-29T01:39:00.000-07:00

Since having a nice experience from ISE4, I signed up again for ISE5 .This time the deadline is on Dec.1.,so not much time left for me, a busy career woman and a frazzled mom.

This pattern is from a deep V vest I've been knitting now.When knitting the vest,I start to think how it will come out if knitted to a scarf .I really wanna give it a try.

The main pattern looks like a fox's eyes so I name it - Fox Eyes Lace Scarf.As for the edges,several edge patterns have been tried but only this one matches the main pattern well.So you can see the finial combination from the pic.Now I've done 6 repeats (the pic is only 3 repeats done) and will keep on doing it.Hope my pal is gonna like it.

Lace Scarf

2007-09-28T07:26:00.000-07:00

Yarn: Tess' Designer Yarn color: Hibiscus
Pattern: TKA#21 Lace Scarf
Needle : Clover #5 24"circular
Length: 43"(after blocked)
Width: 7" (after blocked)
Duration: 3 weeks

I didn't used to wrap scarf in winter.However, last winter I got serious cough and saw many of my colleagues wearing scarves to keep their necks warm.I started to think this winter I might need a scarf,too.

Before I start to find a pattern, TKA#21 project is this lace scarf.I don't have to find a pattern myself. TKA do me a favor.How lucky I am! The lace yarn,Tess' Designer Yarns, I bought from the States is so fine. In Taiwan less lace yarns can be bought,not mention to hand-dyed lace yarns.I can't wait to try this new yarn.The colour is so gorgeous,but the lace yarn is easy to drop stitches and can't found wrong stitches easily. According to this experience,I don't think lace yarns are knitting-friendly

In Taiwan, winter is not so cold.A big ,thick scarf is not practical here.I prefer a light ,airy and soft small scarf to keep my neck warm ,and match my garments well.So I knitted 31 repeats , the length was only 43".It came out just what I need. Great!!

Being that the lace yarn is so fine, I knitted garter stitches for the hems and blocked it;however,the two side edges are still curled.Maybe next time I should try to knit with two strands . It might turn out better than one strand does.

Pink Pullover

2007-09-08T18:13:00.000-07:00

Yarn: 100% pink cotton 7 balls
Tool : addi#5 24" and Clover#3 16" circulars
Length: 18"
Width:16"
Sleef Length:17"
Duration: about 2 monthes

This pullover is my knitting homework.(I learn knitting in my LYS). Actually, I didn't like this pattern much because it looks a bit old style ,but my knitting teacher insisted taht I must learn to knit this pattern.Well, she is the boss.

This time I had to knit sleeves so I decided to kint it for my daughter, which will cost me less money and take me less time to finish .However,thing is not as what I think.After counting the stitches, I was wrong.It is a middle size children garment instead of a small size one.Finally,it took me around 2 monthes and used up 7 balls to get it done.

I forgot teacher's reminding.She said for children under 10 years old.It must make button holes in the neck hem for children features big head but small body.So I ripped the neck hem out and made two button holes.

It is autumn now.When we go outsied in the night,this pullover is very suitable for keeping my daughter warm but hot.

My little nephew

2007-08-18T07:19:00.000-07:00

My younger sister has born a baby last week.Since it was always rainy last week ,I didn't have a chance to see my little nephew.Today I couldn't wait and decided to see him though typhoon is coming today.

He sleeps peacefully.I haven't seen and touch kids this little for long time .My little nephew reminds me of the time my kids were little and brings me back to the bittersweet baby-caring memories.For me ,those days were long time ago,but my sister's is going to begin.

He is so lovely and adorable.

Monica's Birthday

2007-08-08T05:51:00.000-07:00

Today is Father's day and also my DD's seven-year-old birthday,so every year we buy one cake to celebrate Father's day and my DD's birthday . My daughter,Monica,have been very happy since she woke up this morning and tells everyone she meets that today is her birthday.It seems she totally forget today is also her dearest father's day.

We bought a cake,small yet cute.Her father gives her 6 story books as birthday gift.I knitted the Illusions scarf for her.She is very happy tonight.

光影魔術手 nEO iMAGING

2007-08-03T08:10:00.000-07:00

Today I download 光影魔術手 nEO iMAGING ,a photo-modified software and can't wait to try the new techniques.Most functions of this new software are the same as Photoimpact but the biggest advantage of it is that you can make a frame for you pics. Not only can you choose frames from the software but also you can download your favorable frames from the net.Also you can compile several pics together on one pic and write words in the pics.This night I play this photo-modified software with kids.Both of them are interested and have their opinions to compile their own pics.

Illusions

2007-07-31T05:51:00.000-07:00

Yarn: Artyarn hand-painted 100% merino

Pattern: Illusions by Black Dog Knits

Needle: Clover#8 16"circular

Length: 40"(after bloking)

Width: 5"(after blocking)

Yarn:100% Brown wool

Pattern:Illusions by Black Dog Knits

Needles: Clover#6 16"circular

length:40"(after blocking)

Width:4"(after blocking)

I knit this two Illusions for my two kids as their birthday gift.They both were born on August.This pattern can be adjusted for one- row or several-rows pattern .For kids' small necks,I think one-row pattern is enough.It looks like cable but it isn't.It is easy and fun to knit .I've seen people using this pattern to knit a garment and it is gorgeous,too.But I don't think I will....that will be a big task...

My kids like this Illusions and are happy with their birthday gift(Children are easy to be pleased) . This winter they can wrap it.

Blue Cardigan

2007-07-21T06:17:00.000-07:00

Yarn: Sky Blue Cotton 4 balls
Pattern: 2006 summer Keitodama
Tools:Addi#5 16" and 24" circulars
Lengh:16"(after blocking)
Width:20"(after blocking)
Duration:5 weeks

I've done this blue cardigan for a while.The pattern is from a Japanese knitting magazine ,2006 summer Keitodama .It was orinigal designed to be a pullover but a cardigan is more practical for me so I modified it to a cardigan.That's the way it turns out.
This cardigan is a top-down work but raglan.After kniting deisred width to fit my shoulders, I start to devide sleeves and body.This is something kind of like raglan but won't have the 4 obvious increasing-stitches lines showed on the garment .I think I like this way more than reglan.
There are eight- stared patterns around shoulders in original design but my gauge is different from it so after recounting stitches,I only have to knit six stars.
Except the top pattern,there are only stockinette stitches knitted to body.It didn't take me much time and yarn to finish it since I prefer the length around my waist.
I also bead the hem.It is my first time trying to bead and is not fun at all because tedious beading takes me much time and slows down my speed.
It is done and looks good on me.Though the process is a bit tedious , the way it turns out is great.

My English Class

2007-07-05T03:01:00.000-07:00

Working for a school,I am only on duty in the morning and have every afternoon off during summer vacation.So what am I going to spend my off-duty summer afternoon?Of course,learning English!!

Every day I have different English teachers.This teacher in the pic named Jay comes at Thrusday class. Coincidentally he is my knitting friend,Susan's husband .They also live very close to me.It's so surprising that he is my teacher.Jay is a Dutch.Susan and he originally met on net and then Jay flew to Taiwan, fell in love with her,and they got married.How romantic ,isn't it?But they might go back to Holland in Auguest or September to keep on Jay's university studying.

This pencial case was made from different color zippers by Susan.It's very unique.I've ever seen people using this kind of pencial case and has been impressed by it then.

Susan made and sold them for helping stray dogs and will donate part of money for shelters.She and Jay love dogs very much.They both often volunteer to wash ,feed and take care of dogs in shelter.I bought one for myself and hope more stray dogs can be helped and cared.

My DD's First English Class

2007-07-04T08:29:00.001-07:00

My daughter is gonna be second grade in elementary school after this summer vacation.In Taiwan most elementary schools start English class from the third grade.Therefore,I decide to let her learn English in cram school a year before school's.

Yesterday it was the first starting and it is just a try-out, which means students can regret if they don't like the teacher, classroom, or study atmosphere ,and etc.

The teacher is short yet lovely.She just taught" Good morning","Good afternoon","Good evening", "Good night" and then played some games.My DD seemed to like her and promised me she would attend this English class again. Though it is just an beginning and will be more pressure ahead of her in the future,anyway I am glad she likes her first English class.

[SAM3-July]Alpaca Cable Socks

2007-07-01T05:41:00.000-07:00

Yarn:Cascade Yarns(98.3%Cotton 1.7%Elastic)186yds 50g/ball
Needles:Clover #3(3mm)16" & 24"(40cm & 60cm)
Pattern:Alpaca Cable Socks by Black Dog KnitKnitters always think socks are easy and quick to finish.Yes,indeed.compared to garments.However,they still took me much time to knit.
I manage to knit it for SAM3 in June but it is not in time. So it will be early July socks for SAM3.
Since Taiwan is in tropical area,my DH is not interested in any wool projects.That's why I seldom knit garments for him.It seems only socks are practical for him.So I decide to knit him a pair of socks using cotton sock yarns.
I like this Alpaca Cable Socks very much,which was designed by Block Dog Knit.It is simple to knit .Besides one left/right cable in left/right side of two socks,there are only stockinette stitches knitted.Quite easy yet unique. My DH likes it very much and asks me if I can knit him five more pair of socks ,which will be enough for weekly change.....Hmm..really a big task for me....

Hearts

2007-06-23T16:47:00.000-07:00

I saw this crocheted hearts in my LYS.It was so cute .I asked the LYS to teach me how to make it.It is really easy to crochet them.I just spent one night to finish the three hearts.

They are pretty to be hung in car ,door or window frame. Making it bigger is also a good idea for decorating X'mas tree.

It is very hot this weekend.We go to the mountain(a small mountain)and there is a small coffee shop .We have a cup of coffee and a nice afternoon break there.In the front of the coffee shop,there is a hanger so I can hang these hearts and photography them.

While DH is talking about coffee with the cafe owner,kids are playing in the garden,I am enjoying my knitting time.

This sky blue cardigan is the project I am knitting

Receiving My ISE#4 Scarf

2007-06-10T05:13:00.000-07:00

Today when I was back home,my neighbor gave me the parcel the postman delivered wrongly to her door the day before yesterday.It's from my ISE#4 secrect pal,Kelli.I am so excited and can't wait to open it.

Kelli sent me two skeins of 100% pure wool from Uraguay,variegated green and red colors.I am thinking to knit them a pair of hats for my DH and I or My DD and DS.Also there are one honey-almond lotion ,Dove chocolate,my kids love it, and one card inside.

The most important part is the scarf.It is my favorite variegated red.Kelli knitted it with Fleece Artist Conutry Mohair and the pattern is "Misty Garden"from Scarf Style.It is so gorgeous,lovely,and amazing.I really love it.My DH said it was really a great work.I wrapped it around my neck, showing off around my house to my DH,DD and DS again and again.Later my DH asked" weren't you hot??"

The scarf is about 9" width and 56" length,could using to be a shawl as well.And it does match Chinese cheongsam well.In this fall, I can wear this modified Chinese cheongsam with this scarf around my neck or arms .It'll be very feminine and sexy.
It is rainy these days in Taiwan but I can't wait till good weather.I am eager to photograph the pics , letting Kelli see her great craft looks nice on me!
Kelli ,I want to give you BIG thanks and hug. Thanks for the efforts you've put in this scarf.I am so lucky to have your gorgeous craft and the lovely goodies. THANK YOU!!

Ivory Bolero

2007-06-03T07:10:00.000-07:00

Yarn: Rosy Cotton 4 1/5 balls
Needles: Clover #3 crochet hook
Pattern:Japanese pattern (Joey's knit along)
Length:42cm(16.5")Width:40cm(16")
Duration:4 days

Since I like last rosy bolero very much,it is very practical for me in summer.I decided to crochet another one.But this one won't be totally the same as the last one,I thought.Thus the sleeves edging and bottom hem were made some modifications as the following pic.And two crocheted strings was replaced two buttons called for the pattern.Now that it looks a bit different from the rosy bolero.
After I finish this bolero,there are still many leftover yarns.Several days ago,in my LYS,I saw a sample of little purse.It looked very cute and was so impressive.Though making a purse never come up in my mind before,I would like to try and adverture it this time.
Crocheting the two ouside flowers is not hard but sewing the lining is difficult for me.I am always bad in sewing.This cotton cloth looks matching the yarn color well so I chose it.My LYS owner taught me how to do a good lining.I was like a kid learning a new thing ,and so afraid to be pricked but of course it did happen many times yet an unforgetable experience.

Having this amazing experience,I would like to make another little purses next time again .I just can't resist the cuteness(but just small ones,not big purses. sewing a lining took me more times of time than knitting outside pattern).

I Have Been "8 Things Meme" tagged

2007-05-24T23:41:00.000-07:00

I've been tagged by Jan.In the beginng,I was confused and didn't know how to play. After reading Jan's blog,I got it now.

So,here are my eight things:

1.My son,4 years old,is taken care of by my MIL in daytime.He is too much spoiled by his grandparents,sometimes too much naughty yet cute.I always can't resist his soft and tender voice"mammy,mammy".

2.My daughter is 7 years old and now one grade in elementary school.Compared to her brother,She is a well-behaved little girl.I taught her knitting under her asking.She can do knit and purl now.We both can enjoy our nice and peaceful knitting time on the sofa if my son keeps away from us.

3.My hubby,He is a nice person always careful in everything . Without him,I might got many troubles in my life since I am a careless person.

4.My mother taught me crocheting when I was 8 years old or so.I liked to crochet dolls and dolls' accessories for myself and my younger sister then but a real garment.

5.Because my mom can't knit,she can't teach me.However I desired to learn knitting so.Several years ago,I happened to see a yarn store having knitting classes so I joined and learned from then.

6.I perfer varigated ,hand dyed yarn to solid yarn.

7.Lately,I bought an addi#5 circular for the blue cardigan.It is fairly good.I am thinking if I should replace all my Clover needles with addis.(That will cost me much money...of course)

8.I don't like papaya(but fairly like papaya milk),banana and so on.Sweet and juicy fruits are my favorites.I tried durian lately (I never want to try it before)and sort of like it.

Rosy Bolero

2007-05-20T08:06:00.000-07:00

Yarn: Rosy Cotton 3 1/2 balls
Needles: Clover #3 crochet hook
Pattern:Japanese pattern (Joey's knit along)
Length:42cm(16.5")
Width:40cm(16")
Duration:4 days

This is my first time joining Joey's knit along.I like this bolero very much.It's very practical for me as I usually wear bolero in spring and summer.When getting the pattern,I can't wait to start it.
Thanks for Kally sharing the mirrored right front(since the pattern only shows the left front).I do save time to draw it by myself.However,the front pattern instruction isn't quite clear,which get me confused.Finally it was done by my intuition .

I don't crochet as chart B called for.I like bolero as a small, short and cute garment.My favorite length is around waist .Therefor I only crochet two round chain stitched and I don't like the sharp edging so don't decrease stitches ,either. You can see the upper pic, the edging is straight not sharp.

I like this rosy bolero very much. This is the first project gotten my full satisfaction.Since it turns out so well,I am crocheting the second one but making some little modificaions.After it is done,I will post some pics here .

Dashing Gloves

2007-05-13T07:42:00.000-07:00

Yarn:Brown Merino (100% wool) 1 1/2 ball
Needles:Clover #6 40cm+60cm circular
Pattern:Knitty:Spring 2007-Dashing
Duration:3 days

In Taiwan,I never saw this kind of mittens before.The first time when seeing it in Knitty,I was impressed by its cool and unique design.And also it is easier than those gloves which have to knit ten fingers .I decided to knit it for my best friend.She might love it,I guess.

But beyond my expectation,she thinks it looks weird and won't keep fingers warm.I feel a little sad.Dashing looks weird ?!?!It's cool instead,I think.Now that she doesn't like it,I decide to knit it for myself.

After reading the instructions,I can't figure out the thumb.Finally,I worte to the designer,Cheryl Niamath.She is so nice to tell me my problem and also guide me knitty Coffeeshop where I can post for help.If not her commends,I don't know what Coffeeshop is for.

Dashing is easy to knit but I made some modifications.I knit one cable repeat again after thumb hole.Though it really doesn't keep fingers warm,it does make wrist and palm warm and confortable and won't bother your fingers.I love it!

A Pirate Hat

2007-05-03T08:03:00.000-07:00

Yarn:Bambi merino 50g 225m(246yds)/ball one ball blue 1/2 ball yellow , knitting with two strands
Needles:Clover#6 16"(40cm )circular Clover#6 24"+16"(60cm+40cm)circular(top of the hat)
Pattern: We Call Them Priates~*A priate hat for wintertime*

I saw this pirate hat online a while ago,but I never try color knitting then.So just appreciated it then forgot.Not long ago, one of my colleagues chatted with me that her son loved pirate pattern very much.
I soon recalled this pirate hat.After I showed her this hat online,she loved it ,too,and asked if I could teach her.

Lately,I am knitting my father's color-knitting vest and going to finish it.So why not give this hat a try!
Pirate pattern in ancient Chinese culture symbolizes jinx.Though young generation take it as a cool totem,still many old and traditional Taiwanese people won't accept it nowadays,such as my parents in law or maybe my parents I guess. However I love this pirate. It looks so unique and special,doesn't it?I want to knit it for my 4- year-old son . If my MIL thinks that's a direful pattern for kid,then I will keep it for myself.

Luckily,my conservative hubby likes this hat,too,which makes me have confidence to finish it.
The last step is to knit lining and then sew it to the inside of the hat.Knitting lining is easy for me but sewing .I am always not good in sewing .Any way,I've tried my best to make it look good.

[SAM3-April] Seduction Socks

2007-04-25T01:13:00.000-07:00

Yarn:Sockotta(45%Cotton 40%Superwash wool 15%Nylon)414yds 100g/ball
Needles:Clover #2(2.7mm)16" & 24"(40cm & 60cm)
pattern: Seduction Socks from IK spring 2007 free staff projects

I knit this Seduction Socks for SAM3.Just in time before the end of April.Actually,I've done one sock about two weeks ago,and then thought it would be a long time till the end of April.So I started other projecs during this period of time.Several days ago,after finishing my Spring Bolero,I thought it was time to knit up the other one . The socks yarn is fingering weight so I use Clover size 2 16" and 24" circulars.Although compared to garments,socks just mean "small stuff";however using size 2 needles did take me a while to finish.There are much yarn left after I was done it.Maybe using the leftovers knits my kids socks next time and hoep it will be enough for a pair of kid's socks.Now that I've knitted 4 pair of cuff-down socks,next time I might want to try a toe -up pattern.
I gonna knit Horcrux Sock with this yarn as my SAM3 May socks for my hubby

Spring Bolero

2007-04-21T02:01:00.000-07:00

Yarn: 100% Ivory Cotton 3 balls
Needles: Clover #4 crochet hook
Pattern:Margrate provides
Duration: 4.17~4.20.2007

This Spring Bolero has been very popular since last spring.It is a Japanese pattern.Its gorgeous ,feminine,and neat style cought my eyes soon then. Many knitting friends in Taiwan crochet it more than just one.Some even made three or four ones for themself or as a gift.

This spring I happen to see one of my knitting friends crocheting it for herself,which inspires me to work one for myself.She is very knid and generous, sharing the pattern with me

Most crocheted projects take less time to finish,and so does this Spring Bolero.I only spend three nights to get it done.So quickly!!compared to knitted projects!

I am so pleased with the result,really looks so feminine.But I prefer a bit shorter one,just fit my waist will be good.Next time I might try a smaller crochet hook and do it again.

[TKA#18]Kiri shawl

2007-04-16T07:24:00.000-07:00

Yarn: SuperKid Purple (60% Superkid Mohair 40% Acrylic) 5 balls (25g/100m per ball)
Pattern: All Tangled Up (TKA Project #18)
Needles: Clover #8 (4.5mm)circular for lace, Clover#10(5.1mm)for edging

Size: 57''wingspan x 35"center length after blocking

This is my first time knitting triangular shawl.In Taiwan,less people wear shawl so knitting shawl is not popular here.(That might be because the weather is hot and humid )However,as the more I see westerners' beautiful knitting shawl,the stronger motivation inspires me to try it.
Coincidentally,the 18th porject of TKA this month is All Tangled Up (Kiri shawl).I just can't wait to knit it.
This is an easy lace shawl.After several repeats,I could remember the pattern easily but ripping back lace was not fun at all so it still needed my undivided attention on it.
I planed to knit 12 repeats as the pattern called for,but as using up the 4th ball,I knew it was time to stop main part and started the edging with the last ball.It's the first time to use this blocking board and wire I bought online from the States.In Taiwan, less people use this two tools(coz we knit less lace)so almost no stores sell them here.
I used to use foam pads for blocking before . Foam pads are not pricy,easy to add or take away extra pieces to fit the project,and convenient to store .Though blocking board is quite useful , foam pads are another smart and money-saved choice.

Seeing this shawl enlarged gradually on my hands is so mysterious .The lace pattern is getting so neat after blocking.I love it!

[ISE#4] Off the needles

2007-04-09T05:16:00.000-07:00

I was done my ISE#4 scarf a few days ago,just waiting for good weather to photograph it.I don't tend to finish it early(then I will have to wait a while longer sending it off to my pal) but there are several in progress projects on my hands so I'd better get this scarf done first.

I do like how it turns out.Especially after bloking,the lace pattern looks incredibly gorgeous,flat and clear,not curled again as I was knitting.I guess I've fallen in love with this scarf.

For lace scarf,I prefer knitting two halves and then graft them together.Thus the pattern will be all upside from either front or back looking.

I am hoping my pal will like this scarf.

[ISE#4]Halfway Done

2007-03-29T03:31:00.000-07:00

I've gotten 20 repeats done today,and it is almost half way of the lengh.I only use up one skein,still having another one to work with.This pattern is not difficult. In the beginning,due to not familiar with the pattern ,I dropped some stitches;however, after several repeats,I

can catch the tricks and notice.So everything is smooth now and my speed goes fairly quick. If I keep this rhythm,the scarf might be finished within two weeks ,which will make me wait long time sending it to my pal.So I decide to slow down and knit my father's vest more.

[ISE#4] Decided to Change the Yarn

2007-03-24T07:59:00.000-07:00

Though still not hearing from my "downstream"pal,I can't wait to knit her with my favorite yan and pattern.But things are not always what they seem.Beautiful yarn doesn't always match gorgeous pattern well. As you see,the hand -panited variegated colors interfere with the lace pattern.I just don't like the outcome.

It seems I must change either the yarn or the pattern now.How pity~. I wish they both could be suitable.After whole night thinking and frustrated,finally I decieded to substitute a new yarn for the variegated one.Really a hard decision for me.

My pal likes blue and purple colors so next day I went to LYS looking for her favorite colors.This one in the shelf caught my eyes immediately.It is bule but solid .Blending with light green, different color spots spread,and sky blue makes it look not so simplex.So my subsititute yarn is it!

After several rows,I was just very happy with how it came out.Obviously,it looks better than the previous one.Great,will keep going!!

[ISE#4] My Exchange Pals

2007-03-22T08:25:00.000-07:00

After long time waiting,finally I received match letter from International Scarf Exchange 4 on March 20.How excited!! Can't wait to see my exchange pal's questionnarie.She lives in USA.Luckil,her favorites just match the project in my mind.Things seem easier now.

I bought this Artyarns supermerino8 SM127 last year for knitting vest for my daughter.Ten skeins will have discount so I bought ten but just used up two skeins , still 8 skein in my stash.This time I plan to knit the scarf with this yarn.As for pattern,I've been eyeballing Brooke's Column of Leaves Scarf for long time.Hope the pattern and yarn can be a good matching!!

The person gonna knit for me named Knittymommy.She is so nice.The day not long after receiving ISE4 pal assignment,I got her letter.She is such a kind and thoughtful person asking more details about my favorite colors.Thank her for the consideration.I really hope she feels free to knit for me and the scarf she knits for me will be very appreciated.

It seems to have a happy start now.Look forward to experiencing a fun and interesting future!!

International Scarf Exchange4

2007-03-03T05:57:00.000-08:00

This is my first time to join International Scarf Exchange4.I knew this activity since the 3rd exchange(ISE3) last year,but worried about I might not finish the scarf for my secrect pal before the deadline so I just gave it up.This year ISE4 starts again.Since reading many people's article about how much fun they had from this activity,this time without thinking too much,I decided to join them and wanna experience how fun it is.

Joining ISE4 is very easy.You just need to fill out the questionnarie and send it to hostess.Hostess will send you an invition to sign in ISE4 blog and then you have to post at least 3 times progress on it.If not,hostess will write to you checking your progress.It starts from Mar.15. to May.31 and you must let your pal receive your scarf in the end of Jan.If someone break the rules,she should be banned from future exchanges.
Sounds fun,doesn't it? I can't wait to start....

Reading-in-Bed Shrug

2007-02-26T06:39:00.000-08:00

pattern :IK Spring 2007 Reading-in-Bed Shrug (staff projects) TKA#16 project
yarn: pink cotton
Needles: 5.1mm circular needles
Width:13"(after blocking)
Length:23"(after blocking)

This shrug is 16th project of TKA.It is my favor stlye so I can't wait to knit it.The pattern is quite easy and won't took much time to finish it if everything is smooth.Unluckily,that's not me.Originally,I just used one strand and didn't knit swatch.When it went to 12 repeats(total 13.5 repeats),I tried it on.The result was too short and small for me.Ripping out seemed the only way to go.Well, lesson learned.Next time,can't be lazy again.

The second time,I knited with two strands and it matched the gauge well.In CO and BO 1x1 ribbing ends,pattern showed 7 rows but I preferred knitting 9 rows.In addition,I added 3 more Traveling Leaf Pattern in centre section(total 16 repeats in mine,but only 13.5 repeats in the pattern)

Beacuse still not receiving my blocking wire and board,all I can do was use straight thin double-point needles to replace blocking wire and soft plastic board to be blocking board. Stretching and pinning work was hard but also amazing couse the surprising lace patter was gonna turn out!!YA~it's really fabulous,isn't it?

The pattern showed to sew selvedges of both CO and BO ends in finishing.Than how can I block it next washing?Finally,I decided to sew two buttons on each sleef instead.

After blocked,it still a bit curled in both side.I didn't like that so I crocheted chains around the edge.It looked nice after all.I was thinking how about add 3 knit on both side(total add 6 stitches)as we usually did for scarf edge to prevent it from curled.Maybe I should try this next time.

Pink Cardigan Is Done

2007-02-18T01:39:00.000-08:00

Finally,my pink cardigan is done.It really took much of my time and drove me crazy in proceeding.Though it was tedious,complicated and had been ripped out for many times,I finally made it.
When my knitting teacher said ,"the hardest, the prettiest",I felt like wanting to cry.....Since ripping out for many times,I've ever thought of giving it up but my knitting teacher won't let me did that.What I could do was be patient and re-kint it again.
The two front flower-patterned hems are the portions I like the most.Thought knitting this garment was not easy,it's worth my efforts cause it was gorgeous and elegant.

Pink Cardigan

2007-02-06T07:11:00.000-08:00

I've been eyeing on this project for a period of time.I love it looks so feminine and can wear as cardigan or sweater(if you button the buttons).Moreover, the pattern changed to leaf (or flower) pattern in the edges of both front parts. This design makes the garment look not monotonous.That's also the main attraction to me!

After reading the pattern and intructions,it seemed not hard so I started to knit!!BUT....THAT'S NOT THE FACT!! Though it only apply ssk,sl k1 psso,and yo,it also have to make waist line.So I must pay much attention to decrease and increase sts and make sure the sts of each row right.Finally,I found out things was totally not what I imagined in the beginning...

Especially for the two front parts,that's the most complicated work.It combined with two different patterns and both of them had their own repeats that didn't match to each other's.So I had to knit two different patterns carefully and noticed when to decrease or increase sts for waist line ,arm hole and neckline. Without a clear brain,it is very easy to make mistakes and should re-knit it again.I did do this several times....poor me!!

My son's socks

2007-01-31T06:37:00.000-08:00

Since I 've ever knitted socks before, I never try two circular working two socks at the same time.This way is so fresh to me.I'd like to try it!!

Learning this way by Straight-Laced socks,I didn't follow the pattern that did look complex for me,a beginner.Instead,I work with 1x1 ribbing for leg and foot, stockinette sts for the sole of the foot.That was easier for me.

After knitting several rows,it was not as what I thought originally.This way had to use two skeins with two needles knitting two socks at the same time.The biggest obstacle was I always had to keep two strands in order, otherwise,they would be a terrible mess.Moreover,it was so confusing to grab need#1 or needle#2;I often grabeded wrong needle.....These all made me slow down knitting speed,and spent me more time.So I might not use this way next time...

I managed to knit this socks for my daughter in the beginning,but they were too small for her after she tried on them(that was my fault....didn't measure her foot first).So my son could have them.They fitted his samll feet .

The color was designed to be opposite with each other,but I forgot to switch the color of toe.So they seemed not like a pair...like two different pairs of socks only just finised one of each ....

Socks for my mother-in-law

2007-01-29T05:17:00.000-08:00

My mother-in-law wears socks in winter so I knit this pair of socks for her. For elders, simple pattern would be suitable for them.So I knitted picot edge(learn it from block dog knits) for upper edge,seed stitchs for middle part,and stockinette stitchs for foot and toe .In the beginning, even reading picto edge for many times,I still could't figure out how to knit it.Appreciating Nora's help(Black dog Knits),finally,I made it.My mother-in-law liked them and said they were so gorgeous.

Kureopatora's Snake Scarf

2007-01-22T00:36:00.000-08:00

Someday , I was as usual browsing my knitting friend,Celia's blog, then accidently linking to w _design's blog , and found this Kureopatora's Snake Scarf.It caught my eyes immediately .W_design knitted this scarf with the gray yarn matching the pattern so well ,so I just couldn't movie my eyes from it and decieded to knit this unique scarf.

Thankfully,w_design shared the pattern, so I could easily got and knit it. The scarf was really like a snake .I was wondering if I chose a color close to snake, would it look a real snake around my neck?Terrible~I don't want that at all!!

So I picked this red yarns, it won't look so much like snake.This pattern was easy only includ Kf&b, ssk, and 1x1 rib.It casted on 30 sts and each row should keep 30 sts on both needles.But I didn't notice that the first stitch of each repeat I knitted was worng ,so finally the sts were getting less and less.When I sensed something wrong, it only had 23 sts left on both needles.In other words, I had to re-knit it........ almost done then....

This scrf was made from opposite trumpet shape.It was very interesting knitting it,just hardly stoping.Finally, I had re-knitted it and done it. It was really gorgeous and unique!!

Lace Socks in Camelia

2007-01-17T06:39:00.000-08:00

This is the first time. I try to knit socks. While getting my sock yarns,Just can't wait to knit them.I like this Lace Socks in Camelia very much,when the first time I saw it on web.

The sock yarns I bought was suitable for 3.3mm (US#4)needles and are cotton(98.3% cotton 1.7%elastic).For knitting lace socks, I think fingering weight yarns might be better.This sock yarns seemed good for sport socks, men's socks and kids' socks...... just not match my lace socks.... Next time,I surely will buy fingering weight sock yarns for myself.

The sock yarns store recommanded two balls for making a pair of socks so for each color,I bought two.But after finishing this pair of socks,it was only used up one ball and a little bit of another one.I doubt if my feet is too small or westerner's feet are bigger.I am the kind of person ,who like to test new things.It is hardly for me to knit the same yarns or patterns again. So what am I gonna do for the left one......?

I suddenly came up an idea how about to knit garment with these sock yarns.....It is a new idea to try nex time!!

Sock Yarns Coming!!

2007-01-13T07:35:00.000-08:00

In Taiwan, less people knit socks, so it hardly buy sock yarns here.Instead,westerner like to knit socks.The more I saw them knitting gorgerous socks, the more I would like to try knitting them.

So I spent lots of time searching good sock yarns on online yarn stores. Fianlly, I found this one Simply Socks Yarn Company, and ordered my lovely socks yarn.

Wow...it was so colorful...I Love THEM!!

It was estimated for 4~6 weeks shipping toTaiwan,but just five days, I got them. How surprised and excitedI was!! I never saw sock yarns before,so can't wait to open this box and desire to see what's inside....

Because not familiar with sock yarns, I chose buying cotton yarns (98.3% Cotton 1.7% Elastic) and tried this red one first.It felt thicker than the socks we usually bought.

I was wondering how it will be to knit garments with these yarns....

TOP-DOWN RAGLAN CARDI

2007-01-06T08:55:00.000-08:00

I knitted this top-down raglan cardigan for my daughter.It was the Dec Project #14 of TKA. I am a member of TKA, that is a Chinese Knitting group. This patter was easier than the previos raglan cardigan I'd knitted.This garment looks bigger from the pic but ,not really, it is small only about 13" width and 15" length.I worried it might be too samll for my daughter next year coz it was just fit now.

I prefer to let my daughter wearing this garment in spring and fall so I combined cotton yarn and mohaire to knit body partion and other yarn for collar and wrist ,which won't be too wram in spring and fall.

As it was not a hard pattern,I finised it only for one week .My daughter likes it very much especially the collar and wrist.It might be that I used mohair so it touched so soft and tender and made people want to wear it!!
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Branching Out Lace Scarf

2007-01-06T08:51:00.000-08:00

I've had a Chinese knitting blog for long time .But I desire to join English Knitting clubs,so I need to have an English blog for more people to visit and know me.My English is not good enough but I will try my best writing it .

This Branching Out Lace Scarf is the latest work I've finished.I found this pattern in Knitty.When seeing it at the first time, I was impressed by its gorgeous style and decided to knit it for my daughter 's teacher immediately.Though I am used to reading Japanese pattern,I try hard to read English pattern this time and finally I made it. Branching Out was done and beautiful.