Conquering Socks..

I have been working hard on my first pair of socks.  I scoured the internet for the perfect pattern and I found it!  Here it is -  

Lifestyle Toe Up Socks - No Swatch Needed by Charisa Martin.  

I love this pattern for a few reasons:

1) no swatching, Yes, that's right no swatching

2) It teaches you the technique rather than just a pattern

3) You can use this technique to make any pair of socks with any type of yarn.

So, I started these a few days ago and after frogging back 3 times I finally figured out how many sts I need make a sock that fits me.   You see my problem with socks was not the turning of the heel (A part I actually find easy) but getting my size right. I tried a few patterns casting on the amount of sts stated in the pattern for my size and gauge but every time  they turned out HUGE.  I mean HUGE.  I was so frustrated.  However, I was determined.   So, I kept plugging along and poof - a lovely sock!  YEAH!!!!  I did it! 

BUT......

I have to bind off now  :o

I needed a stretchy bind off.  After all, I didn't want to ruin my perfect sock!  Back to the internet I went and discovered  this bind off method .  Great website with pictures that clearly illustrate this fabulous bind off.  Ta da.. done.

Now the only thing that I have to do it make the other one :)

Back to work I go...

The Dublin Wrap

I love this wrap!  Simple, elegant and perfect for March!   I was inspired by the green grass in Dublin, Ireland.  A place I was lucky to have visited many years ago.  I remember all the good times that I had during my fall semester abroad.   I think that I hit every pub in Dublin!  The funny thing is that I don't drink - at all!  So, I had Irish coffee instead, yum! (just a bit of whiskey in each)

I hope that you enjoy knitting this one up as much as I enjoyed designing it for you all.  Please, if you have any question, just send me an email.  I will be happy to help in any way.  I chose a wool blend for this wrap so it can be worn in spring as well.  A bit lighter than straight wool. 

The Aspen Wrap

 have been knitting like a busy bee!   I created my first wrap and I just love how it came out.  I knit this in Sirdar Snuggly which is a DK weight.  Soft, light and washable.  I just have to figure out what to name it.  I have to let it mull around in my head for a few days.

It was a joy to knit.  So versatile.  I can wear it as a wrap, a scarf, shawl, or cowl.  I am so excited!  I have to write down the pattern properly and I am thinking of listing it on Ravelry.   It is classic and will last many years to come through all the fashion changes the world can throw at it.  Everyone should have a piece like this in your closet.  Now for the pictures!