Strings & Things

I finally received my Ravelry invitation, which is all very well and good, but I haven't really had time to do anything with my account. Again, dial-up sucks away all of my good intentions. Still, I haven't posted much here about knitting or fiber, despite an evident addiction (in real life). So, here's what I'm up to:

I've been working for ages on the Clementine Shawlette, from the Spring 2007 edition of Interweave Knits. It is a seriously belated gift for an aunt, and although it is not difficult, it is taking me far too long to complete. Between the lace stitch (easy enough) and the significant spans of time between knitting sessions, it takes a few rows before I get into a rhythm. Also, I am using a hand-me-down pair of Addi Turbo circular needles for a flat piece, and it just doesn't feel right. I've substituted the yarn for a hand-dyed cotton, and I don't like the combination of textures (cotton & metal). I should have changed needles long ago, but now I'm committed, and changing would probably alter my gauge. So I suffer through, and look longingly at my comfy bamboo circulars, sitting in the corner.

The project that interrupted the shawlette was Miss T.s baptism dress, and for that I will just have to post a photo. I altered the baptism dress pattern from Jill Eaton's Minnies book. There is also a sundress pattern in the same book I can't wait to get started on, but sibling rivalry reared its predictable head, and I must complete something for The Young Man before doing another project for his sister. In the meantime, however ...

TYM decided he wanted to learn how to knit! (Do you hear the fanfare of the knitting faeries? I do!) We have picked out a chunky red wool and some large needles, and he is working on it. I think it may still be beyond his fine motor skills, but I am trying to keep his interest alive while not stressing about "doing it right." Is there anything more deadly to a budding knitter than a bad experience with an overzealous teacher? We are going the very low-stress route here at the Casa, and so far, so good. I will be sure to be back with a pic. of his work.

Last but not least, I want to do the "Urban Urchin" set from my Stitch-n-Bitch page-a-day calendar. This will be for Miles, and even though it will now be out of season, I think that it will still fit him well next year. Looks quick, and I have some lovely red merino wool waiting patiently.

There's always more, but I dare not contemplate my UFO list or pending project list too closely. Like any good romance, I think my relationship with my projects benefits from an element of mystery, which I strive to preserve.