Mom's Knitting Room: 7/20/08

Welcome To Mom's Knitting Room

Welcome to my blog page. My site will update from time to time. You may on occasion see items rearranged or removed. So don't think you're going "crazy". I am still learning to navigate within the blog world.

My knitting experiences have been very slight. I have only been knitting about four years. Learning the "ropes" and "ins and outs" of knitting from my mom who has been knitting for over 50 years. I have had the privilege of having many talented women and men teach me their "tricks of the trade". They have been generous and patient with me as I learn this craft.

You might wonder why its taken so long for me to catch the "bug" of knitting, but until recently it occurred to me that this long lived art would die with my mom as she is the only one of three siblings who can knit and crochet. So in order to keep the tradition alive and hopefully pass this on to future generations in our family, I ventured out on this new journey and chapter in my life.

There are many knitters out there so willing to help "newbies" along this expedition of knitting. Along the way, I have been able to impart some new techniques, skills and information to my 80 year old mom. I've been able to introduce her to fabulous fibers as well. . . . .

Who said "you can't teach an old dog new tricks?!"

Tuesday, July 22, 2008

Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock Yarn - Seaside "Media Socks"

I am in the process of knitting a pair of sock from the book "Favorite Socks". They are called Media Socks. I am using Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock Yarn in Seaside colorway.

These socks have a mock cable and lace design which might be a little difficult to see because of the busy colorway. The socks are knitted in US #1 dpn needles.

I just love knitting on smaller needles. I find as I expose myself to different designs and patterns, that I really enjoy using smaller sized needles versus larger sizes. I enjoy how the smaller needles create such a tight fabric that seems almost seamless. Granted, with larger sized needles you progress a little faster in your garment, but for me its the process of creating that I seem to enjoy. Don't get me wrong, I also enjoy the end prodcut as well. I derive a certain pleasure in knowing that not everyone can create SOCKS! Yes, I have become a SOCK snob. There is a certain aura about the majic of turning the heel, picking up the stitches for the gusset, etc. Wow, what a feeling of accomplishment.

This yarn is also really nice to work with. I love Lorna's Laces products. The Worsted Weights are also great. Please check out this yarn by visiting your LYS or online knitting store.

Cats and Dogs

I am quite blessed to have a husband who indulges me to no end. Our dog rescued a tabby cat with three kittens, all grown at this point. There were three females and one male, but the male cat ran away. The others have stayed. We have been successful in domesticating one of the three kittens, pictured below named Scratcher, plus the mother cat. We managed to spay all three female cats (Mommy Cat, Scratcher Face and White Face) and care for them daily. Two live with us while the third one (White Face) refuses to be housebroken. Doesn't matter to us, we still care for her and look for her daily to be sure she is safe and sound. We have a doghouse outside under our balconey so she is sheltered from the snow, rain and sleet. During the winter months we use a heating bowl for her water and put lots of blankies in her doghouse so she stays warm and dry.