FO-Possumsweater and Notodden - Norway

After 650 kilometers to Notodden, Norway - I had plenty of time finishing this. Ok, I admit. Reknitted front and collar twice, but pleased with the result. I could have had one more button to tuck up the bottom, but the Buttons are from La Drougerie, so I guess not. It is warm, and the sleeves fit perfectly - and compared to my bodyshape, it is not too bad - I mean stripes, what was I thinking? Im particularly pleased with the pockets with the buttons. Perfect for the asthma medicin in springtime. Yarn? Naturally Yarns brand Karema - which is merino and some Possum fur. Super warm and soft - meaning, not very good for steeks, so I have to cover the seems on the inside. Anyhow - Why Notodden? My brothers son, Martin had his "human confirmation". That is really the big manhood rite in Norway. The kid is 15, and already a smart one! What a family gathering. And at the cermony, we saw tons of "Bunad" which is the folk-costume here in Norway. And I must say- Telemark is very exiting place. Look at the belt from the yarn-shop owner - all done with "brick-weaving" (another secret hobby). The yarn-shop extra vaganza where I got tons of Norveigan patterns, what filled with goodies - and restrained myself to two thin alpakka in mixed colours (like this belt) from Du Store Alpakka and from Sandes, one odd lime Alfa (which I already have enough for a sweater - this was just a highlight). But I really played with Per Tyving, Rauma Finull in all and more colours...Drops, and sockyarn in all combinations and much much more interesting stuff- well displayed. I got three wonderful buttons, Large, square, and with filigran work...but she has all the tenn "hooks" (or whatever that is called) and buttons you can need. It was fab. And all the silver broches, you know the type in "Poetry of Stitches".. I guess I will make a long wishlist for next time Im there. I did have a long look at the Knit-pics sock-yarn kit. That looked wonderful. But I restrained myself... Now, enough.. Im tired.. it was such a great party and such a long drive home. Tomorrow - research paper and tax-declaration. So yarn hunt in Notodden - It is Alfhild Jörgensen! Ohh what a shop. To dream of. And I have the possum sweater on. Still. Like a glove, yummy soft. It is fun to finish! Also did one more ball on St Brigid on the way home. Great pattern!

Almost there...

Steeks are cut, only brim and collar left - and assembly is next on the list. Good project for work in car (no- Im NOT driving) on the way to Notodden in Norway. The work week in Coventry was - work! But I got to get my pulse going driving on the wrong side... I mean the left side! And at least 3 more rows on the beaded kidsilk. Two interesting knitting magazines bought. No yarnshops. Magazine 1..The Knitter - who had some great patterns in a well packaged number of "eco-friendly". Magazin2. Simple Knitting. I feel a bit bored with the magazines. Too simple, and copies from books you already have. Sigh... but some bamboo handles as a gift was not too bad. One potential great article- about a dyer and spinner in Mag 1, that could have been jampacked with facts, instead was only "oh- how nice she does this". Grrr... Still that is like Choclate to me. Got to have a piece. especially on a dead hotelroom, with only news and sport. But too tired to knit. Now- we are on the way to Norway.. just going to hack some more on my research paper...I doubt there is a minute for yarnhunting. Have a gret Valpurgisnight! Valborg!

What is going on? Spring!

Spring? That means - all old grass is gone, and 6 apple trees are now pruned (with a blister in my hand - not inflicting on the knitting). Eyes are running from the pollen, and like a bumble bee I join in buzzing around the garden to look for the first flowers. It is warm, and after having invited the black ant for winter (cleverly joining some plants)... all are all carried outside. Still chasing those little buggers, though a good clean of the living room did the trick. (At least I have no crocs in my garden ;-) I must say - a work intense week. Not much time for anything (which means knitting!). And the "yacht" is now in water. Still needs the mast. Definitely spring. At least I had a break-through today and got into a good fight with the sewing machine to give my very tight steeks on my possum sweater a go. It really fealt hugely risky, since I have re-knitted it three times, and now It is cut - and cannot be reknitted. It is something scary that you cannot rip it up. With the last yarn I will knit the front, a small neck and add evey inch of what is left of the yarn on to the sleeves.I could easily do with 2 or three more balls, but, I guess that is the consequence of shopping yarn across the world. I have started diagonal lace sock - toe up, and I have at least worked a bit on Sue's secret Lopi cardi Yoke. Stupid me having 4 colours along for the next three rows, bound to get slow. I wish I had time to finish the Possum cardi, but it is not to carry - and my flight tomorrow for Birmingham, UK (to Coventry!) leavs at 6.20 in the morning. Work, work, work. And next weekend is Norway... I guess I continue to start new stuff to bring with me. Oh, I forgot to tell Im doing a few rows on St Brigid to... She is a cable galore. So fun to knit! May she wants to travel? Hmm, she is on steel-needles.. A bit bulky... Ahh that lace with beads might be a hit.

Yarn from downunder (it is a pun!)

A "story" from Australia is called a "yarn"... well noone got that I guess...? Wxcept the aussies themselves. Did I show the wonderful Karema from Naturally Hand Knit? Possum yarn with Merino...yummy. I have knitted sleeves and body. The body was frogged once, but is done again (now in Cardi-form with steak). And I admit, I have frogged the yoke twice (trice?) but now last time in its entirety. So instead of a FO - you have to see more the raw material...I thought I was done, but tried it on and No - absolutely not. No Islandic sweater yoke for this. Not enough yarn. They talk about swatching - but my own design under the influence of vacation is more a "swatch" sweater. I love just knitting on. So I frogged it AGAIN and am now knitting with body seperate (steeking) and then will sew on sleeves. Hmm. Having now been back a week in Sweden - I can still yearn for the wonderful vacation and the great memories. Thank you all for the nice comments. It has been a dream vacation. Really. I think the picture of the view from a hill over Arnhem land - this is Ubirr in the northen Kakadu. I mean - the colours. They are unbelievable. As it was hot. I just love this view - of course after a climb in the heat. But what a place. It was swarming with dragon flies, and just a few more degrees and I would have said elves. So the 10 ply 30% possum yarn with Merino - also from Naturally hand knit was such I treat to find. The plan is to share it. Colours like autumn. Wonderful!! And I have no plan at all what to do with it. Fill up that stash - I have had this strange thinking of Poncho - I have actually not knitted one. Maybe just a large shawl... it was a long time ago. Hmm.. it will probably be a sweater.... or a slipover. ..
Ahhh. so nice. soft yummy yarn. A great way to start the weekend. Mmmm.. Still Jetlag?

FO-Picot Edge Nutkin Sock

The Nutkin sock was easy and fun to knit. Short row heel and toe was fun, and something new. I just "had" to add a picot edge on the sock, to add something, but otherwise this was done in no time - and with sweaty hands in the heat of Australia. Of course pictured on sheep skin! Yarn is Opal Cotton bought at Wool Baa in Melbourne. Colours like Easter, doesn't it? This is the March entry of the StickaMera Sockklubb, and even if I decided not to continue with a sock a month, I must say - that just by staying on the "member list" I was convinced, and I'm now trying to catch up...ok, a bit late, but so what. Anyhow, the January pattern (yes, I'm behind) is the Plaited Points which is a great cable pattern, just fitting for Noro Kureyon sock yarn, which I also started, but I had not the entire pattern printed, just on the computer, which made it a bit hard to use... had to lay it to rest. Noro has such great colours. I just love it I cannot understand how I got drafted into the sock-crazy, but it is true. I have become a sock-knitter. (Still a Sweater knitter of course!) Socks are fast, easy to take with you, and very useable and wearable. I love the cotton one. Anyhow, not forgetting our recent wonderful trip to Oz, I give you one of the great highlights. We drove in sunset into a huge flock of black cocatoo's. When they get spooked they show their red tail like this. Is this not just fab? I have enlarged this a lot, since getting the camera up, and window down is really an adventure. I have no problem understanding what birdwatchers do now. It was such a sight and experience. I love the colours black with a teint of the brick red. On a green with a splash of heaven blue in background. I wonder if this is how Noro picks his colours? I mean, look at the black/blue hues here on the plaited point sock, and then at the ball - which has a lime/yellow and turqoise splash... true Sweden in spring. I must say - Sweden is so fab right now... birds singing, and galantus (snow-drops) blooming together with Hammemalis (witch-Hazel ), Helleborus (christmas-rose) and cr ocus. Now it is just that spring green/lime we are waiting for. And weather here fantastic, sunny and it is promised 17 celcius today. That is perfect.

Oz memories

Proof of the crochet top! Sexy and cool! Maybe some sleeves to be added. Cotolin yarn (cotton, linen) from Mondial and with a thin thread of red silk as accent. My silhouette is not the best after enjoying too much Curry Laksa. See how we enjoy this wonderful dish, a Malaysian soup with thick and thin noodles, bean sprouts, veggies and with added extra something.. here below- we enjoy the squid, octopus and seafood. It is Chili strong - and just a lot of coconut milk in it. Good? Aahhh heaven. I cannot understand why there is NONE to buy in the entire Sweden. This would for sure be a hit resturant. Hey - I should import a good chef and go for it myself... nah, in another life. But if you are out of a job - this is a sure hit if you are willing to work for it. (BTW, it was hard finding any in the US as well - so!) Anyhow, picture taken in the only rain out of three weeks. We narrowly escaped all flooding, both in Coffs Harbour where the entire town was under water(and where we had stopped for lunch just the day before for a Laksa) and in Noosa Heads (which was just next to Coolum). Anyhow a rainy day is great for knitting, so I finished my pair of Nutkin socks.. Just need to fasten the threads... pic's soon (and you will be flooded this easter weekend)..
Of course rain on the beach was no fun, so we went to Brisbane and had a fantastic Japanese dinner out with our dear friends. They had not changed a bit - and was planning for moving to Byron Bay and build a house. We are sure to return for a visit in the dry season. You can see me knitting on their wonderful garden porch. There is no way to describe their wonderful garden. Here you see pineapple, and two wonderfully large mango trees (oh yes - it bears a LOT of fruit, not just this year), olive trees, kafferlime, and a series herbs like lemongrass, with all the local varieties like Grevilla tree etc. I was just blown away. of the fragrance and wonder. Think about having the Asian kitchen herbs in your back yard, what a treat! All planted with care in a estethic way. Wow. And when knitting there we of course saw Flying foxes (bats) and parakites, and a series of birds I do not know the name of. How exotic. Of course in the heat - about 33 celcious or something, humid and lush. Well, we had rainforest walks, collected a wild Hoya, and took pictures of this wonderful Banksia in bloom.
I must say, this has been a wonderful trip. And it feels so good to be home in Sweden. In 6 degrees celsious (brr - we are so cold, and I'm happy I'm knitting warm sweaters.) Just had to show you that Great Ocean Road picture again (now when we downloaded and seen it all). It is just fab. The pictures are so unreal. It is hard to believe we were just standing there and enjoying this wonderful view.
What a dream vacation. I must say - this will stay with me for a long time. It has been so fantastic. Really. Absolutely wonderful.
Today we woke up 4 in the morning ,jetlagged,,.. and now we must rush to fix the sailing "yacht". before it is time to welcome it to Swedish spring and summertimes. The light in Sweden is incredible. Cold, but wonderful birdsong reminds me that Sweden is also fantastic. I think we tend to forget what is beautiful just around the corner where we live. But change is good. Vacation we need.

Coolum at Sunshine Coast, Oz

Coolum, just south of Noosa Heads, view from room. We are doing fine. So nice to be on holiday. And I just say that I found the best woolshop in Perith (just west from Sydney - on the way to Blue Mountains). I sure found some Possum there yarn there. And - the Starmore book "childrens collection". Anyhow, a quick one... Here is the possum sleeve. Yarn from Naturally. It is great knit. Knitted half the body, and frogged it. Now Im fine. Next to it - Red Papaya. It tastes so fresh here. Something else. Fruit it is. And salty swims. Take care back home!

Sydney - 17541 steps today!

A room with a view! It is a city that I have not understood until today. It has the beautiful Operahouse by a Dane ;-) and also Chinta Ria have found its way here (our fav Melbourne dining place). C.R. have here a larger "but not as rich with octopus" Curry Laksa as in Melbourne. But that started the meltdown of my heart. You see, I have always thought the Sydney city to be too much traffic, high rises, and a absence of resturants in the centre. Today we took the ferry (see big white one in view from room) to Watson´s Bay, and had a hot walk to Rose Bay along sandy beaches, cliffs, and the best location up-scale housing area. Wow. A lot of climbs up and down - since here the waterfront is not always protected. This area won me over. Great sandy beaches, and not at all full of traffic pollution. Ok. I have planned a quick visit to a yarn shop tomorrow. We will see if it measures up ;-), but I like Sydney much more now than in my memory (of course not as great as Melbourne). Anyhow, I'm still a bit annoyed I went too "blend" on the colours of the Merino, Alpaca and Possum yarn from Naturally. I could have had some ball of red - that would have done it. Or lilac. Bummer. Why oh why! I guess I will have to send my Melbourne friends on a yarn hunt. Ok, I have started... and sorry for the fuzzy picture. I have no idea what I'm going to make of it. A sweater, maybe a sort of fair-ilse...? It is filling and warm, and oh so soft. Great to knit with. Inspiration will come. Before this, I also started a sock from the Winter Knitty 2008, but realized I had not printed the entire pattern, so I have got "toe up" half way. Anyhow - We are heading to the Blue Mountains tomorrow - to get another good walk before hitting the Gold Coast. I hope to hit some more yarnshops, but I suspect wool will be harder to find up in the heat. Just for the sake of it - some more pictures from the wonderful rainforest down at the Great Ocean Road. Those tree ferns are truely amazing. BTW - I finished the Crochet top ;-) Still have a half ball (as planned) for the flying home (sleeves) but it will remain a top for this trip. Pictures will come. Promise!

Yarn from Downunder

Quantas made me crochet. So here I am displaying the halfway new top in Cotolin at Great Ocean Road. Still have not got into the 33 degree celcius heat. But, as hubby explained, I have now done four woolshops in Melbourne. And - yes we have been eating Curry Laksa, Yum Cha (twice), Singh's take away Korma with Mango Lassi and Nan, and of course enjoyed the Vic Market Caffe Latte with Croissant and freshy presed fruit juice. Carlton looks a bit different, but our former house at Jacka Street has evolved into a beauty. The new owners have made ponds, and the garden and house was just fab. Anyhow, the Yarnshops here are number 1: Wool Baa, great staff, CathyC knitting there and wonderful selection of yarn. This would definitely be my LYS. I was very calm here and only got one ball of cotton sock yarn. And the last Kochoran nr 10 (I did a sweater in this, but Im thinking of reknitting it). Wool Baa is in the picture ;-) Then there is the Woodoflex at Malvern road. Filled with goodies. I fell for a NZ merino and angora yarn in wonderful lilacs. And some complementing Millifine cotton for to some odd balls at home. Finally our favourite stop at Whitehorse Rd "The Kind and I, Balwyn Thai" where we usually had our dinner meals when we lived here 12 years ago, it was a nice little shop, where I got some Clackhurst Bamboo for socks. Finally - central Melbourne on Elisabeth St have Clegs - it is not too bad actually, lots of fabrics - but the Merino, alpaca AND 10% Possum made the buy. Cheap? Absolutetly not. 16.95 oz dollars for 104 meters 50 g. Yepp, Possum yarn is heavy. Pictures to come if I get a good internet. Now it is time to join the BBQ party here. Keep knitting!

Flash my stash and startitis...

It is a bit early with Flash my stash - but I can reveal the new containers of
the garngamen yarnroom. On the right behind the chair you can see my new project yarn, Wåhlstedts Vålberg yarn that is to be used in St. Brigid (from Aran Knitting/Starmore). Closeup below ;-) Anyow - you cannot spot the 4 boxes above the left Billy bookcase on the left. It is alot. These boxes definitely hold some 10 Kg of yarn...Only one on the right. Ok.. I have more corners, but these contains at least half of my yarn ;-) Nice to have your own yarn room. I must say Im mourning Nysta's closing her shop. I was there just a day too late (misread the sell-out date), and all cleaned out. Nina's shop was great - but I guess she will be around on the net. Not the same as touch and feel though, and the great chats I have with her. You grow fond of your local LYS. That is a fact. But still... I had startitis and just HAD to start the aran. I have been looking at the pattern and yarn for years now, and frustrations from my other knitting just craved for a nice starting - which is the best. New yarn, new pattern and a lot of fun. Otherwise Im trying hard to keep finishing stuff. But this yarn wanted my attention. What has kept me back is the fact it is 2-.400 meters too short (or more) We will see how that can be compensated. Otherwise it is still snow and grey, with some "slush" factor here in Sweden. It feels cold, since it is "humid" cold... an I guess all pictures have a dark teint to it - even with flash! Keep on knitting out there! The spring will come. And soon we fly out to a great vacation in Oz. Have a nice weekend.

Progress in sweater-land

This is Poetry of Stitches - Hisdahl - Wedding Cardigan. The holes will be where it is folded. So almost there. but STILL two sleeves to go...Im Trying to decide if I should; a) cast off and fasten - fold the steek on the outside, and make a special extra band to hide it? or b) cast off and fasten, but cut the steek so close - resew and turn it IN the edge (which will probably hide it, .c) just continue to knit on the inside to create a longer inside flap to cover it. or just fold it, and make a nice fastening (edge) of it (hopefully does not show in front...I have no idea. b) is least likely. a) is my strongest hint but c has the advantage of "just continued"... therefore it is halted- awaiting the best destiny. Now A.Starmores "Luskentyre" is progressing.. but in some for of ultrarapid motion for the moment. I have realized I messed up, and the size ball weight changed from 38 g to the standard 25. Since I ordered nr of hanks, I had no idea about this - and I have already since the end of some yarn.. Im not really sure, but I continue as long as I can (yeah- pic is upside down...so what? it reflects my life right now. OK, what really takes something to discuss is that I picked up the india top "pinktober". And knitted away two sleeves, and started the yoke and short rows, evindece of a sleeve left. All was well, and then I did the normal "try on" and yepp, I still have a distorted self-image. It hardly passed my elbow. Only one weeks evening knitting to be frogged. Yikes, that was a short romance. Back in the UFO-pile. Oh, this last peak is the secret knitting of a Lopi cardi for my for my friend. And it is not as much brown there as you would think... Just some, progress hint of what it is meant to become. Both sleeves done. Im soon getting in with the yoke. So big cleaning week. I cannot believe the amount of ceramics I have collected/done. No wonder it is dusty. But a lot of old computers is now gone to the place where all calculaters go aka "silicon heaven". So, progress is true. 3 steps forward, and one back.

FO my winter Lopi Cardigan

Finally, the last finishing touches are completed on my Lopi Cardigan. It is still not completely dry. I added on extra rows to the collar - which was too short in my opinion. I also have added a series of short rows in the yoke - so it is lifted enough in the neck. The pattern is from a small booklet called Lopi No 23, and this is design 1. Plötulopi (cakes - 3 threads) used. Now - even if I have followed the pattern to the letter, I have lately got a fling for pockets (great place to put a hankie or my astma medicine). Anyhow - I sewn on the pockets in the very late night - being so stressed I could not sleep... and - I must laugh, that even if I have counted the stitches - I have placed the pockets so uneven it is hilarius. Now to really make this cardi fab, I must restitch the pocket - AND make an inner lining in the collar - so it is nicer to wear and it stands straight. Anyhow - this Lopi-craze is still going on. The interesting part is - when I attempted to knit up my stash on Lopi (or Plötulopi) I have just realized my stash has instead gotten larger than before. Glad I have gotten at least one in the making, one in planning and two that I still do not know which patten to use. I guess I save some to the next winter... these heavy yokes takes a strain on my shoulders... time for some lightweight knitting...

6 nr 6 Totally OT!

So, challenged by Maria to find the 6 picture in the 6th folder and show and tell is an adventure. Not only do I have access to 3 computers, but also - restrictions apply. The work-computer is of course empty on pictures - and I never blog from there. The home-computer I have all pictures on is share by husband (and also - the ctrlbutton is badly placed, causing me to loose stuff on the blog), so the research computer is my blogging choice, and I do think Swedish state mind me practicing my english. Anyhow. On this computer, there was not 6 folders. Or I should say, the 6th folder was "sample pictures". No - but I have a folder which has folders - which have pictures that I use as background for my research presentations (to poke the very left-hemisphere oriented people a bit). So unfotunately the 6th of 6th contained flight accident shots, Im unsure if they are not carrying publication restrictions.. But - hey it did not say 6th reading left to right upside down, so going from the back in the folders I found this - much better inspiration for a blog. My brother Johan's great Art again. This is from 1991.... but still have the vigour of the now. I love it. I have this huge plan to knit based on his paitings... But of course - that is also using someelses genious instead of exercising your own. But the colours here would be a great sweater. So - art and knitting (and a lot of travel)....Anyhow I have decided what to bring to Australia two UFO's. One to finish on the plane down (and then wear)... one brainless "motorway knitting that lasts" 2.5 mm body and sleeves left of the wild-apple would take care of that.... and then Im discussing the third with my self -being sure to have something to knit on the plane back.... but I got to have room for yarn,,, I love planning. Otherwise Im in fight with two (2!) lopi sweaters. One uncooperative - one very cooperative. The uncooperative has now got pockets, (to be attached) and needs a lot of sewing (of a band in the collar) and then the fun secret one. Well. I hope to get one done to show this weekend.... Oh yeah - I told you - Im a dead end for this "hand the torch over". If you read it - you are it (assuming you have a blog) ;-) Hugsies from the tv-sofa...

FO- Jaeger Aran Tweed Cabled Sweater

In 2007 the wonderful Cabled sweater looked like this west. You can easily see how the "simple cables" moved into some more advanced to form a great V-neck. It has been waiting since 2004 when the body was knitted - twice. NOW it is finally a FO. After only a week (!) of intense knitting - two sleeves got done - and I have now a new favourite in my closet. I just had a small cable - like the bottom part, running down the sleeve. (Unfortunately the picture really does not show it as well.) But I have a bad cold so Im not taking any pictures this weekend. Now, I have done the bottom part once - so I have an extra "body". It was way too tight. Im thankful for this sweater, since it taught me a valuable lesson - cables do definitely mess up the gauge. And this was very much "contracting". anyhow. Im soo pleased with this invention. Not only did I explore cables. I also got a great size and fit sweater in a favourite yarn Jaeger Aran Tweed. Yummy yarn. Strongly recommended. Heavy - fat and a great quality. It has already been test-used ... In Athlone- Ireland where I was this week with work. It is warm. REALLY warm. But feels good. And no pilling. Great. Just great. It is perfect when it is drafty and chilly. Yes I know.. I should dedicate this post to Mary who nominated me for this blog award. I mean - Im not sure about chain-letters. Im a "dead end".. But I must admit Im flattered of Mary's kind words. Hard contemplating what are my fav 6 blogs? Being such a surfer that is almost impossible - but some I check more regulrarly, that is for sure.. Having "return capabilities" being interesting and new - and gives a hint of what is in: I guess, HPNYKnits will cause a loop, but she and Mary are definitely on my top. Then Im such a fan of Marina and her goals. She is the expert I awe.If there is a Knitting nobel prize Marina is a candidate. If anyone wants to keep up with the Swedish happenings and trends- my near neighbour in Älvsjö Maria's blog has quickly become the in place to be. Familiar faces, colours, and lots of new stuff. Then I must admit Im a always paying tribute to my friends: Zoë, Milly, Heidi, Gail, Barbro, Marianne, BertandFelix, Helen, Anna, Agneta, Johanna, Eva and ....you get the point? I cannot even count to 6 and I SURE have forgotten many dear and great bloggers I do check out over and over. Im pushing myself to blogg every weekend, and Im deeply worried to become "boring" here so I try to stay focused... but you really do find me in Ravelry. The "home-page" there gives a great overview of FO's. If you are a knitter, there is no better place to be. And I know it is Valentines day. Sue - I would say my dearest knitter pen-pal friend - WITHOUT a blog - I wish you - the knitting world (including all above and all not mentioned) -my dearest hubby, friends, other blogpals, ravelry addicters and family (and the occasional work stalker ;-) - many lovely feelings and happy thoughts. If you cannot forgive and forget, get in touch with love. Hugs... and PS. I have NO trouble to knit up Plötulopi...Cakes are a piece of cake!

Knitting thoughts...and yarn...

Cashmere from Paris. The luxury of luxury. This is "the only" thing I spend money on when there, no expensive handbags, or couture clothes, no- couture yarn! That is what my hearts desire (and some choclate too ;-) There is one problem with this fab yarn though. What to do. Im collecting for a wonderful Sweater. "The collection" sweater. Knitting from the yarnshrine is difficult. I had Pashmina - from Lana Grossa (Also cashmere-merino mix) in plain white out for "getting ready to go". 10 great balls. But I have not found the right match between pattern and yarn yet, so after a few weeks and 100ds of patterns browsed, It is now back in its box on the shelf. Knitting is really demanding. My friend Halla mailed me and told me the books from Island had come, so I had to make a visit yesterday. And - Of course I thought of my friend Sue - "who likes beige".... I have hardly any beige at all.I mean - look at this Plötulopi cakes. This is some of the current "left-over". After browsing in all the wonderful new Istex Lopi pattern-books (also the new book Einband - who had great lace shawls patterns...) I have decided that the very busy "fair-ilse" inspired Saga pattern will be when Im all done with the main sweaters - and then digging in the left-overs ;-) Well, I hoped I would be "a good girl" showing not one - but "two" finished items. But, one have still one more hour to knit (and the week-end photo-light is gone anyway) and the second, well, I need to add pockets, add more on both sleeve-length and neck. And also.. have a good wash and streatch. Maybe next weekend? Hugs out there. Enjoy life. Im. PS: Reserach is going fab!

FO: The Eclectic sole: Migration

Migration socks are done, As you can see I have added one more cuff row and a wavey edge - I just thought they were a bit short. Other modifications are adding 18 stiches on cuff. You can clearly see how I have adapted the extra to fit the pattern on the side. But still - an inspirational sock. Yarn: varigated is Lorna's Lace sockyarn, and the blueish is Drops alpaca. It is supposed to be knitted from toe and up, but I had already started when I actually READ the pattern. By know you know me. I do not walk to the frogpond if it is absolutely necessary. So I actually knitted the heel an quite a bit, until I realize the sock is too small. So I have ripped all patterns. But then I did not have the pattern with me (I was in Paris, remember- La Drougerie). Anyhow, today I checked Nysta - and Im so proud. No new yarn - EVEN if it is a sale.... But two pattern-books. And also a book about old vintage patterns (in Swedish, but author is probably norweigian or danish.) Anyhow, had a look at Johanna's bok. Looks great, but not my type of patterns.. I guess it is very personal - though I think she is very inspirational. I like the gloves. A bit bulky, but ok.. Of course Im NOT very fond of Basic patterns and "tubes"... Anyhow Im in desperate help to figure out my travel-companion knitting for australia. Bring patterns and needles? One big one for the planes? A huge lace shawl? Assuming buying yarn in Oz? Merino... ahhh....

Much better Pictures from My Artistic Brother!

I guess the net swallowed this beautiful pictures, so it took a while to get them up..... But they are so fantastic, and so is my dear Brother, don't you think? Presenting The Famous Artist Johan Mauritzson. He is displaying the knitted gifts and the Lopi sweater. The hat (with his special (and copied!!) initial JM) and the hat have earflaps you can wear down (looking like a dog)- or actually you can attach them on the nob in the top (ear up!)...(PS: this pattern will be available). Hi kindly shows off the Half-gloves that he got as a christmas present to wear in his cold house while painting and sculpturing. All the pictures behind him is his work. I mean - look again, he is rather remarkable. I mean - one goes speachless - this is a work of an artist. Thank you textile arist Christina Oscarsson for taking the pictures (I assume that is what happend!?)Christina is modest of course, but has not only gone through the tough Handarbetets Vänners School, but is working with her weaving, and knitted objects..in hard competition. Well again- Congratulation dear Johan on your 50th birthday. May you have many great years in front of you...! And share the fantastic paintings with us mortals.
Love those glasses.. Mmm... That is what the boring glass manufacturers should use. Hire an expert artist like my brother. We would all laugh in the sun. Up north of Sweden - now very much covered in snow - it is a must not to go snow-blind....(when the sun is out - which is still a very short period!) PS. If you want to see more of the art Im sure it is for sale ;-)

FO Brother Lopi and FO Bergå Sweater!

OK, I did not get my brother to pose in the Sweater and hat for his 50th birthday - but I did it before.... and it was given away last weekend. It is 3-threads of Plötulopi (förgarn) wind together, and the pattern is from Lopi nr 12, which I did rework the colourscheme totally to fit his wishes. The sleeves and neck has a Debbie Bliss Silk-alpaca coating (I still remember his anti-itch approach)... But he claimed this will be ok on top of 3 other sweaters to keep warm in his old schoolhouse up north (Käckelbäcksmon).. It is only 12 C inside, so he will need it. It is hard to heat big artists houses ;-) The snow was sure coating the place! Well, so this week I have been good, trying to do the what I do not want to and that is sleeves. So I started easy! Very easy, with the Bergå sweater, that I have used as a west for more than 5 years. The yarn (Bergå) was bought at Tällberg around 88. And is actually one-thread (but it was claimed to be two....) so something is not right. It is super-thin, and super light. And REALLY brown. I like it, even If it is a bit to high in the waistline. I have been working on the sleeves - and actually got a bit of help sometime ago when my mother-in-law had the knitting itch.... so she did at least a big chunk of them... So the Bergå now are finally finished (the sleeves completed this weekend) and assembled. I'm still contemplating if I should do some cool embellishments on it - I still have white yarn of the same quality. So, Bergå will be a staple in my wardrobe.. Plain, light and great to wear, but very silent. Btw, we had to use the flash outside - midday - and the picture is STILL a bit blurry - Do you think we need some sunshine here? I do. So, should I have it plain or splurge into decoration? Give me your thoughts! Please! Well, It was freezing outside, so pulling the sweater down is great... I guess that is a different way of saying I need to wash and stretch it, pin it... but I just HAD to show you. So - by this Ihave finished TWO sweaters for the 2009 KAL "Sweater a month"... Good to be ahead.

ok... the sock-bug bit me....

I must admit that I was longing for knitting sweaters. But faced with the pile of UFO's and no real "new" knit... (Im still desperately trying to mix up Pashmina from the shrine with something) I resorted to the huge choice of socks (and my great books). In fact I needed something for my train-rides... so I realized, when I could choose myself - I LOVE knitting socks. Ok. It is in the open.. it all changed this last year of the sock. I luv the colours it is Lorna Lace's sockyarn and the plain Drops alpacka in blue. Why I have done like this is because the two hanks from Lorna was in different colour-baths, and it showed really bad. By mixing it up I get two different pairs. This is called Migration Socks and is the front cover of a great book Eclectic Sole - of socks....... But the original pattern is ment to be knitted from the toe up. Anyhow, I had already started (and now I have also ripped it up, the pattern is MUCH too tight!) and restarted. Well, this was on last weekends trip to Paris, so I did not bring the pattern. But this time I added 3(!!!) bubble = 18 stiches. Much better. Anyhow. I dear not to speak about the Copenhagen yarngalore: Summerfuglen was sort of restrained, just 3 hanks of Cashmere (Lotus -laceweight) and some Isager Twinni yarn in lime and one hank of Angora. But Bette Design - and the Henrichsen spun Nikolaj "USA" yarn. U = Ull (wool), S = Silke (Tussah Silke) and A = Angora. Say no more. It is the "best" yarn I have, lusturus, thin and beautiful. Also found my New Zealand Possum yarn (at Strikke.....) cannot remember shopname.. but just around the corner of Uldstedet - the latter where I went crazy on Twinni on sale! Ok. Still a yarnvulture! So This was Copenhagen. 4 Bags full. Can you imagine going to La Drougerie in Paris? Im saying ohh, ahhh... Ok.. more cashmere, buttons and some cotton in an overcrowded shop. They could triple their size. And this sock. A support on boring plane. Now knitted twice to the place at the picture.... I mean.... my real knits I cannot show since they are a secret ;-) Next week!! Next week! Hugs out there!

Hopes for 2009 - Another year of Sweaters!

What does 2009 hold for me? I hope I will finish a lot of my started knitted projects,and most of all finish my PhD. Renovate the kitchen. Im just great to initiate and start things. My energy is so strong then, but then enduring all to the end. I mean, I think I have so many sweaters that is "almost done". Last year it was the year of the sock. This year (and I think every second year) my goal is do sweaters, finish them, and do that little extra. To conclude this: Finishing, having Closure - THAT must be the most important task for me. Here is the current list of UFO's that I have in my mind to finish....LOL!
Sweaters
Luskentyre (Starmore) - last piece to neck and sleeves´(pic)
Wedding Cardigan (Hisdahl) - Sleeves and brim
Aachen a Bliss hommage Cardi - Sleeves, neck, hood
Freeform Artsy sweater - a lot
Jaeger Grey cable aran - sleeves
One-threaded Färgcraft Brioche Cardi - one front, collar, sleeves
Lopi cardi - make buttonhole rim, collar and pockets
Finish edging on summer cotton sweater, hood? brim on bottom
Bohus Vildäpple - sleeves and body (picture)
Bohus Yellow Lace collar - most of it (just frogged)
Bohus Skogsmörkret (I have frogged and will reknit half body for a more slim fit)
Bottle green cardi for hubby (sleeves, neck, assembly)
Two-end knitted cardi - most left to do
Speede remake (finish edging and embroydery)
Machine-knitted cardi - finishing, edges, buttons etc
Studio 9 Long - figure out the wondeful Hanne Falkenberg pattern for short to long. Most to knit.
Inditop for Pinkoctober top half, sleeves
Birch inspired -Lacey Eindhoven kid-silk sweater top half sleeves
Spin my spinexperiment jacket -most..(pic)
My Ishager "newspaper" sweater - most to do
Noro cardi Half top, pockets etc, are sleeves too tight?
Shinano good morning cardi (body, should I rip the sleeves?)
Snuggly pullover
CatnRat sweater (see first picture!)
Bergå sweater (top of both sleeves, assembly)

Socks
Two end knitted short socks. (done half of one)
Home-spun hair-socks

Mittens
Latvian in Alpaca (done one cuff) (picture)
Latvian no 19 (one to go) /pic below)
Embroidery on Håndplagg mitten
Two end knitted mittens (both cuffs done)
Gotland lace mitten (one done, one to go)

Other
Märta-Stina bag
Stickling Cuffs in kid-silk
Second shoe
Scarf "Lägga hank..."
Chinese vest - quick...

Yeah - it is fun to knit! And finish!
I guess I do not need to start new stuff, but starting is fun. When you fall in love with a pattern, it is half done in an instant. On the new list is definitely another Starmore... maybe Strathglass or Rheingold..and another Hisdahl.. the cotton-one is the plan, and maybe the rest of the Lopi... and the Kabuto yarn have yelled to be handled. Another snuggly sweater? Hmmmm... I must knit those socks ....and... Ahh.. great to have choices! I love lists and plans. Happy new year to you too!