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Archive for the ‘Knitting’ Category

Canadian Yarn-Bombers create 2,500 ft. airplane cozy

Posted in Knitting, tagged on August 14, 2012 | 1 Comment »

(photo by Yarn Bomb Yukon)

Looks like it can get so cold in the Yukon that even the airplanes need sweaters!

As part of a collaboration with The Yukon Transportation Museum and The Yukon Arts Center Public Art Gallery, members of the Yarn Bomb Yukon Collective worked for 5 hours to cover this 70 year old DC-3 with a 2,500 foot airplane cozy! Knitters from across North America joined in, creating granny squares made of acrylic wool to contribute to the project.

If you happen to be in the Yukon, you can see the airplane cozy up close and in person until it’s torn down on August 21st. Once removed, pieces of it will be cleaned and turned into blankets that will help people in need stay warm this winter.

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Knit & Crochet Toy Drive to Benefit Kids!

Posted in Crochet, Knitting, Vickie Howell, tagged on June 19, 2012 | 17 Comments »

Last week I  launched Purple Stitch Project to benefit children with epilepsy (read about the inspiration behind PSP here), and I’m already coming to you guys with a need. Next month in Bastrop (you know, where the HUGE fires wiped out 4,000 homes last year) there’s going to be this great camp hosted by The Epilepsy Foundation of Central & South Texas in partnership with Texas Parks & Wildlife. Camp Brainstorm is a 5-day experience for kids, ages 8-18 who have seizure disorders.
It’ll be a wonderful experience for the 40+ kids they’re expecting — one that I’d like to make even better by supplying each kiddo with their very own handmade plushie, courtesy of Purple Stitch Project. To make this happen though, I need your help! I’m asking that you knit, crochet or sew 1 (or more) plushie to donate for the cause.  Who’s with me?
Perhaps the PSP mascots, the Purple Ninjas will convince you?
Purple Ninja Speaks Knit
Knit this ninja for a kid camper! Get the pattern here.
Purple Ninja Speaks2
Crochet this ninja for a kid camper! Get the pattern here.
Here’s the scoop:
WHAT: Any plushie (animal, doll, robot, etc.) made or embellished with PURPLE yarn or fabric. Clock on the links above to get the patterns for the mascot ninjas, or work from your favorite pattern. Just keep in mind that the kids at this camp aren’t little-bitty, so let’s try and stay away from anything that seems to babyish.
WHEN: Finished plushies are due to me by July 20th.

WHERE: Send items to: 
Purple Stitch Project
9901 Brodie Ln.
Ste 160 #268
Austin, TX 78748

WHY: Because handmade = love.

Looking for purple yarn suggestions that work well for plushy making? Any of the following are great choices:
Sheep(ish) in colors: Magenta(ish) or Plum(ish)
Simply Soft in colors: Berry Blue, Lavender Blue, Irish, Passion, Grape, or Plum Perfect
Simply Soft Party in color: Purple Sparkle
Caron One Pound in colors: Lilac, Iris or Deep Violet
We dig comments, so let me know if you’re up to the challenge!
Please visit the Purple Stitch Project for more information on the initiative. Thank you SO much in
advance.
Stitch.Rock.Give,
VickiePsst…pass it on!

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Father’s Day Project: Golf Club Cover!

Posted in Knitting, Vickie Howell, tagged , on June 8, 2012 | 1 Comment »

Golf Club Cozy
With dad’s day coming up I thought I’d share the pattern for a golf club cover I made for my father-in-law a couple of years ago. Admittedly, I don’t know anything about golf, but this cozy was a special request so I did my best. I’m happy to say that Mr. Wayne Campbell was quite pleased with the finished product, and I’m hoping that the golfer in your life will be, too. Happy Father’s Day! — Vickie

Clubbed
Personalized Golf Club Cover
by Vickie Howell
Materials
1 Ball each Vickie Howell Sheep(ish) for Caron (70% Acrylic/30% Wool; 167 yds/153 m) in colors: (A) Espresso(ish) (00009), (B) Teal(ish) (00016), (C) Taupe(ish) (00011)
Set of size US 8/5 mm dpns — or size needed to obtain gauge
Stitch Marker
Tapestry Needle
Gauge
18 sts x 22 rows = 4”/10 cm in St st
Pattern
With A, CO 38 sts. Divide evenly over 3 dpns. Place marker and join, taking care not to twist.
Rnd 1: *K1, p1; rep from * around.
Rnds 2-6: Rep Rnd 1.
Join C.
Rnds 7-10: Rep Rnd 1.
Cut C. Switch to A.
Rnds 11-14: Rep Rnd 1.
Join B.
Rnds 15-16: Rep Rnd 1.
Cut B. Switch to A.
Rnds 17-42: Rep Rnd 1.
Rnd 43: Knit, inc 10 sts evenly around. (48 sts)
Rnds 44-50: Knit.
Join B.
Rnd 51: Knit.
Cut B. Switch to A.
Rnds 52-75: Knit.
Cut A. Join C.
Rnd 76: *K2tog, k2; rep from * around. (36 sts.)
Rnds 77, 79 & 81: Knit.
Rnd 78: *K2tog, k1; rep from * around. (24 sts)
Rnd 80: *K2tog; rep from * around. (12 sts.)
Rnd 82: *K2tog; rep from * around. (6 sts)
Cut yarn, leaving a 6”/15 cm tail. Using tapestry needle, feed tail through live sts on needles; let them fall off; cinch closed.
Finishing
Pompom:
Using strands of A & B held together and 3″/7.5cm piece of cardboard, wrap yarn around cardboard approx 50 times. Slip wraps off cardboard and tie a piece of yarn tightly around the center of the wraps. Cut both ends of wraps and fluff pompom. Trim.
Using beginning and ending tails of tie, tie pompom to each end.
Weave in ends.
Embroider desired initial, using a tapestry needle, chain stitch and B.



Embroidered Chain Stitch


 

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Pop Color Trend: Turquoise

Posted in Crochet, Knitting, Vickie Howell on May 23, 2012 | 4 Comments »

Turquoise is hot right now. From nail polish and pillows to hats and haute couture, we’re seeing shades of beautiful blue-green everywhere. I personally consider turquoise ,”my signature color” (said with a Southern accent a la Steel Magnolias) so there’s no end to the glee I feel on a daily basis as I come across a plethora of aqua items! Here are just a few, dreamy things I’ve spotted on the inter-webs, plus TEN on-trend projects that you can make yourself!

10 On-Trend Turquoise Projects from Caron


1. Tuxita Baby Tunic (shown above)









Love turquoise, too? Follow my Pop Color Trend: Turquoise board on Pinterest!
xx,

Vickie

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Recap: Triangle Shawl Stitch.Rock.Knit-along!

Posted in Knitting, Vickie Howell, tagged , , on April 23, 2012 | 4 Comments »

KAL Prep
Literary Ladybug’s,  Jessica Kline’s and Chai Mama’s supplies ready to go!

Last week we wrapped up (har, har, har) the triangle shawl Stitch.Rock.Knit-along, and at the risk of being redundant I’d just like to say again how much I dig these virtual get-togethers! As a working mom of three kids, getting to hang out with fellow knitters working on a common goal — but on my own time and without leaving home — is a win-win. Hope you think so, too!

For those of you who weren’t able to make this one, here’s a recap of events.

First up, an explanation of the anatomy of a center-out shawl. Traditionally, a triangle is achieved by increasing one stitch at each end (every other row) so that the flat, top of the shawl “grows” on your needles as your work. In other words, you knit from the bottom point of the shawl outward (chart 1.1).
1.1 Anatomy of Bottom-up Triangle Shawl

For the “Shawl We Wrap”, we’ll be using the top-center out method (chart 1.2). This means that we cast on the first few stitches of the straight part of the wrap that will ultimately be worn near the back of your neck, and then work outward. To do this, you not only use the increases at both edges as you would with the bottom-up method, but you ALSO use two increases at the center. You’ll essentially be creating two triangles at a time, that will make up one, larger triangle. This means the the the “live” stitches on your needle are the bottom, angled edges. Cool, eh? Most lace shawl patterns that you see today, use this method. one of the things that makes this nice, is that if you’re knitting your edging you won’t have to pick up stitches. They’ll already on your needle!

1.2 Anatomy of a Center-out Triangle Shawl
Next, it was time to cast-on and get knitting! The great thing about a project like this is that you can see it taking shape almost immediately.
My mom, Libby’s first several rows.
A few days in, knitters were jammin’ along. I especially like how some people started experimenting with stripes!
Progress
Progress!

Clockwise: WIPs by Jessica Kline, Karen Ramisch, EvaporateDone & Susan Rodenhahn

For most of us unless we happen to be on vacation with dedicated knitting time, 7 days isn’t really enough to finish an entire shawl. Some superstar stitchers however, met the challenge! The last few days of the Stitch.Rock.Knit-along were spent chatting about edging options. We provided 3 different choices for this project, all of which came out of Vogue Knitting’s Stitchtionary 6. If you’re feeling math-y though, you could adapt this pattern to finish of with an entirely different edging of your choice.

Since most people tackling this shawl likely already know how to knit, I chose to demo the crocheted edging. I’m a huge fan of crocheted fishnet–the Helena top from my book, Pop Goes Crochetwas created almost exclusively with a variation of this stitch — because it gives a lacy look and a lot of mileage with relative ease.


For stitchers choosing one of the two knitted edging options, here’s a how-to video for the bind-off method used for both. Even if you don’t plan on making the Shawl We wrap, check out this bind-off anyway. It’s one of my faves for adding a little extra detailing, especially on delicate or kids garments.
As our week together came to an end, I was thrilled to see photos of participants finished shawls– makes mama proud!
Kim White’s Magenta(ish) Shawl with Fishnet edging.




FOs!
L-R: Mama Karen,  Maria Kegel, and Julie Bauer’s

 

NJ Knitter’s FO (front & back) with Picot Dot edging and Picot Bind-off.

 

My daughter, Clover feeling Sheep(ish) in our finished wrap.

Even though we’re no longer officially knitting-along for this project, the Ravelry thread and Facebook page will stay live with information and support. Please feel free to read posts at your leisure, ask questions of the group and most of all, share pictures of your projects!

The Shawl We pattern can be found in the Spring ’12 issue of Knit Simple Magazine on stands now, then available to purchase from the archives section of the Knit Simple website after that.

If you want to subscribe to the mag for future Stitch.Rock.Knit-alongs, you can do that here. To order Sheep(ish) yarn ahead of time, go here.

Stay tuned for the cabled beanie Stitch.Rock.Knit-along which will start on July 31!

xx,
Vickie

Psst! Don’t forget to visit me on Facebook!

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Knit Simple’s Stitch.Rock.Knit-along: Triangle Shawl!

Posted in Knitting, Vickie Howell, tagged , , on April 2, 2012 | Leave a Comment »

Join me next week on Facebook and Ravelry for the first official, Knit Simple Stitch.Rock.Knit-along! This time around we’ll be making the triangle shawl from my column in the Spring ’12 issue. 

If you’ve never knitted a shawl from the center neck out, this is a great project to learn the technique on. We’ll be using basic garter stitch for the “body”, along with yarn-overs to increase stitches and also push the shaping out. Once that’s finished, you’ll have the choice between 3 different edgings that range in difficulty levels. I’ll be there every step of the way to help!

To join, just “Like” the Facebook page or post on either the wall or Rav group that, “you’re in!”As you start gathering supplies, please snap a shot with your phone and share the pics at either the virtual venues. We’ll cast-on on April 10th!



Hope to see you there!

xx,
Vickie

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Handmade for the Home

Posted in Crochet, Knitting, Vickie Howell on March 16, 2012 | 1 Comment »

Sometimes thinking about how to create handmade items and incorporate them into the home can be a bit overwhelming. After all, not everyone has time to knit cotton rugs for all of the bathrooms, or crochet an afghan to drape over the couch. Still though, DIY decor items bring a personalized warmth to any dwelling. So what’s a busy stitcher to do? My advice: think small. Small project, that is.

Simple accessories that take less than a weekend to make are the perfect components for the home, no matter what your style. Coordinating throw pillows, crochet-embellished bowls, and wash cloths are all great examples of small touches of stitched style. If you want to pack a little more punch with your projects though, I suggest choosing a pop color and creating a small piece for an unexpected place. To show you what I mean, I thought I’d share a picture of my own kitchen (see above.)

On the table is a plain, vase from Ikea that I created a chevron-patterned vase sleeve for out of Sheep(ish) colors: Yellow(ish), Chartreuse(ish) and Coral(ish). The sleeve comes off so I can still wash the glass, or switch it out for another sleeve in different colors should I want to.

Hanging above the table is a plain ol’, white drum lamp that I be-cozied using the same coral color from the vase. To do this, I just knit a long, garter stitch piece on oversized needles. Then, I stretched the piece around the lamp — hot gluing along the outer edges as I went — and seamed up the back. It was so easy, and really broke up the over-whelming amount of white in that room. Oh, and for you sew-ers out there, the valances are made by cutting rectangles of fabric, hemming the edges, and creating a rod pocket at the top. Easy peasy!

I’d love to know what items you’re making for your own home. Share ‘em here, if you please!

Have a creative weekend!

xx,

Vickie

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Pop Color Trend: Coral + New Sheep(ish) Pattern!

Posted in Knitting, Vickie Howell, tagged , , , on March 5, 2012 | 3 Comments »

With Spring on the horizon, I’m diving right in to the current pop color trend. Of course, considering the palette of my yarn line, Sheep(ish), it’s not really as much as a trend for me as it it just reveling in what I already love — bold, saturated color is right up my alley!
Over the coming weeks, I’ll be focusing on several pop colors sharing with you inspiration boards, as well as yarn-y project ideas to incorporate the respective colors into your knitting/crochet life. First off: coral! Here’s just a few favorite items I’ve found on the web using this color. If you’re Pinterest-inclined, you can follow my Pop Color Trend: Coral board. I’ll continue updating it as I find more cool, coral finds.


Adding a pop of color to your home, can be easily achieved by including some bright throw pillows in the decor.  My Perfect Square Pillow lets you do just that, and in a flash — the pattern uses a double-strand of Sheep(ish)! It’s knit in garter stitch, but uses the mitered square technique to create interesting, directional lines. Top it off with your favorite, graphic button and place your pillow on your bed or couch. Your room will look like it got a fresh breath of trend air!

Perfect Square Pillow
Vickie Howell for Caron
Materials
Mitered Square Pillow
Sheep(ish) color: Coral(ish)

4 Balls Vickie Howell for Caron Sheep(ish) (167 yds/153 m; 30% wool/70 % acrylic) in color: Coral(ish)

Size US 11 needles
Tapestry needle
Stitch marker
14”/35 cm pillow form1 1/2”/3.8cm cover button
Small square of fabric

Finished Measurements
14 x 14”/35 cm
Gauge
12 sts x 20 rows = 4” (10cm) in garter stitch, using double strand.
Directions (Make 2)
With a DOUBLE STRAND of yarn CO 74 sts, placing marker at the halfway point.
Row 1: K to two sts before marker, ssk, sl marker, k2tog, k to end. (72 sts)
Row 2: Knit.
Repeat these to rows until 4 sts remain.
Next RS row: Ssk, ditch marker, k2tog, slip 2nd st over 1st st on RH needle to BO last two sts.

Finishing
Using a tapestry needle and yarn, seam together two pieces at 3 of the sides; insert pillow form; seam shut.
Following the manufacturer instructions, cover button with fabric.
Using a tapestry needle and yarn, sew button to center of pillow, going back and forth through all layers of the covered pillow several times.
Get the pdf for this pattern on Ravelry!

download now

 

More Caron projects in the Coral family range:

Scarf Tied Jacket

Bright & Breezy Kimono

Nice Baby Jacket


Stitch.Rock.Love,

Vickie





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New Sheep(ish) Pattern: My Guy Hat

Posted in Knitting, Vickie Howell, tagged , , , on February 15, 2012 | 3 Comments »

My Guy Hat
Shown in colors: Grey(ish), Gun Metal(ish) and Red(ish)
My Guy Hat
Slouchy Beanie

When designing for guys, I always say simple is best. That’s why I love plain ol’ beanies. They’re a great way for a dude to show a little style without really having to commit to anything crazy. If you go with a stockinette look, I can pretty much guarantee that your man will wear it. Use color and stripe placement to add or subtract his chosen level of funk. The My Guy hat is designed to be a bit longer than average to cover the ears and slouch a bit (a big trend right now), and includes spiral decreases at the crown for an added effect. Make this project now, or bookmark it for this year’s holiday gift ideas!
Materials
1 ball each of Stitch.Rock.Love for Caron Sheep(ish) in colors: (A) Grey(ish) and (B) Gun Metal(ish), plus scraps of (C) Red(ish).
Size US 8 (5mm), 16”/41cm circular needles
Size US 8 (5mm) dpns
Tapestry Needle
Sizes
Adult S/M(L/XL)
Finished Measurements
Stretches to fit up to: 23(24)”/58/61cm
Gauge
17 sts x 22 rows = 4”/10cm in Stockinette stitch
Directions
Hat Body:
With Color A, CO 80(84) sts. Join, taking care not to twist.
Rnds 1-8: *K2, p2; rep from * around.
Rnds 9-10: With Color B, knit.
Note: When working in-the-round, stockinette stitch is achieved by knitting every rnd.
Rnds 11-12: With Color A, knit.
Rnds 13-14: With Color B, knit.
Rnd 15: With Color C, knit.
Rnds 16-17: With Color A, knit.
Rnds 18-19: With Color B, knit.
Rnd 20: Rep Rnd 15.
Rnd 21-22: With Color A, knit.
Rnd 23-24: With Color B, knit.

Repeat the last four rounds, maintaing Color A & B stripe pattern and ending with Color B until piece measures 6 1/2(7)”/16(81)cm from edge.
Note: for less slouchy version, work body 1/2”-1”/1-2.5cm shorter.
L/XL size only:
Next Rnd: With Color A, knit around while dec 4 sts (using k2tog) evenly. (80)
Next Rnd: With Color A, knit.

My Guy Hat Side



Spiral Decrease for Crown
Both Sizes:
Change to dpns when necessary.
Dec. Round 1: *K8, k2tog* (rep. to end)
Rounds 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, & 16: K all sts.
Dec. rnd 3: *K7, k2tog; rep from * to end.
Dec. rnd 5: *K6, k2tog; rep from * to end.
Dec. rnd 7: *K5, k2tog; rep from * to end.
Dec. rnd 9: *K4, k2tog; rep from * to end.
Dec. rnd 11: *K3, k2tog; rep from * to end.
Dec. rnd 13: *K2, k2tog; rep from * to end.
Dec. rnd 15: *K1, k2tog; rep from * to end.
Dec. rnd 17: *K2tog; rep from * to end.  

My Guy Hat Back
Back view: spiral decreases.
Finishing
Thread tapestry needle through remaining sts.  Pull tight and secure.  Weave in ends.

Stitch.Rock.Love,
Vickie


Unless otherwise agreed upon, patterns on this site are for non-commercial use only. Copyright Craft.Rock.Love Media, LLC 2012. All rights reserved.

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Baby Sweater in Knit Simple Magazine!

Posted in Knitting, Vickie Howell, tagged , , , , , on February 3, 2012 | Leave a Comment »

Hey all! Just a quick post to let you know that I have a pattern for a stripey, baby sweater in the Winter issue of Knit Simple. It’s knit from the top down, and in one piece. That means NO SEAMING for you, busy mama! Get the pattern plus the KS team’s tutorial on making it in the issue on stands now.  Oh, and as always, Sheep(ish) is available at your local retailer or at Buy.Caron.com.

Shown in Teal(ish) & Robin’s Egg(ish)

 

 
Knit Simple Winter '11/'12

Stitch.Rock.Love,

Vickie

Facebook/vickiehowell

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