Murat
Just take it one stitch at a time…
Letter From Jodie Morgan: Founding Editor
In this issue, there’s… the essence of the shoreline, beach vibes in the city, spicing up winter, cable magic without the fuss, and…
Note: If you click a link on this page and make a purchase, I may receive a commission, but at no extra cost to you. Learn More.
Plus, you’ll find…
Tailor your own timeless turtleneck, knit a quilt full of memories, tiny knitted Christmas charms, mitten magic, beautiful simplicity, sweet leaves, brighten your planters, vintage tattoo art decor, and the magic of lace.
A knitwear designer’s passion for creating yarn, tips to tame yarn tangles, the summertime knitting marvel, revive your yarn with this clever trick, discover the magic of SoCal Fiber Fair, and perfecting the 2×2 ribbing bind-off.
Knit the linen stitch with ease, save your stitches: a handy tip for dropped cast-ons, diagonal basket weave (knitting!), a blanket of memories & comfort, effortless undoing, and two-color checks.
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Knitter’s Corner
Question From A Reader
I love getting emails from my readers and every week I pick out the best question and answer it here. So, today’s question is…
“I’ve just finished a large lace shawl. Can I use steam blocking instead of wet blocking to preserve the delicate stitches?”
I understand your concern. With delicate lace, your best bet is to gently wet block your shawl. Wet blocking allows the lacework to open up and reveal its beautiful intricacy, something that steam blocking doesn’t do as effectively.
You can see some tips and techniques for blocking different knits here.
What’s your favorite blocking method? Share in the comments!
The Adventures Of Boobah & Friends
A fun new coloring page for your collection.
My youngest son has illustrated another delightful coloring page… This time, Boobah & friends are making pie… Or at least, trying to! 😂
Click the button below to download it as a PDF so you can print it out and color it in. I’d love to see your finished piece. Leave a comment or contact me!
Useful Knitting Tip
Use Lifelines As A Safety Net
“All you need is a tapestry needle and a strand of different colored yarn. With fine yarn, dental floss works. Gently insert the strand of yarn into a row of stitches a few rows below where you’re up to in your knitting; we call this your ‘lifeline.’ You can keep on knitting. If you come across a mistake, you can pull out your knitting until you reach the lifeline.”
— Excerpt from the Knitting Habits Success Manual.
Casting On Comedy
I love sharing the fun of our craft and I hope you get a giggle out of this…
I practice stitch craft!
The Great Knitting Debate
I so enjoy finding out about my readers’ experiences. Please let me know your thoughts in this poll.
You have until the next issue to cast your vote, and there, the results will be revealed!
And now… for last week’s results…
QUESTION HERE
- Option #1:
- Option #2:
- Option #3:
Worthy Of A Spot On Your Bookshelf
Here’s my weekly recommendation for an excellent knitting resource to help you on your knitting journey.
Stitch ‘n Bitch by Debbie Stoller
“Something for everyone in this book, whether you’re a beginner knitter, intermediate, or advanced. There are 40 fun projects, and handy skills and tips for learning how to knit.”
— Sourced from my recommended books for your knitting library.
Knitting Through Time
I love finding pieces of art from history showcasing our craft through the ages.
This is a sketch of girls knitting by the German artist Max Liebermann.
The Wisdom Of Words
“Now, let us all take a deep breath and forge on into the future; knitting at the ready.”
— Elizabeth Zimmerman
This Week In Knitting News
Here’s what I’ve found for you…
Crafting a Career from a Childhood Passion
Charlene Oleksyn’s journey from healthcare to Prairie Lily Knitting is nothing short of inspiring. Can you imagine jumping with no retail experience into something you’ve loved since you were a child? It’s a brave leap! I adore her approach: wear a handmade sweater daily and keep knitting simple and satisfying. Her story reminds me of the pure joy that comes from following our bliss—even when it seems a bit unexpected. Her shop sounds like a haven for local knitters!
High-Tech Threads: Knit Your Way to a Stronger Wi-Fi Signal
Imagine knitting not just for style but for functionality! Researchers have developed a way to turn everyday garments into Wi-Fi boosters using the familiar float-jacquard technique, thrilling for tech and textile lovers alike. By integrating metallic and dielectric yarns, they created functional antennas that are durable and washable. The implications for fashion and technology are vast. Read more about this intriguing innovation. Makes me want to give my own knitting basket a tech makeover!
The Lucky $77 Yarn Giveaway
7 lucky winners, so you have a great chance of winning…
Knitting Designs You Can’t Miss…
The Essence Of The Shoreline
Inspired by the mesmerizing swirls left behind by tides, the Tide Loop Tee blends nature’s art with wearable fashion. Starting from the top down, this design reduces purl stitches with strategic short rows, turning routine into a thoughtful journey.
Sizes range from XS to XL, ensuring a flattering fit for many.
Beach Vibes In The City
The Savannah Cool Tank Top captures the essence of summer perfectly! The drape is just divine. I’m thinking how it would feel on a warm day—absolutely breezy.
Recommended with a US size 6 (4mm) circular and double-pointed needles, it offers sizes up to 52 inches. Though silk is suggested, cotton is good for cooler evenings.
Spicing Up Winter
The Adelia set couples practicality with playful elegance. I’m drawn to the versatility of producing fingerless mitts or full mitts, all from the same skein!
Designed to fit snugly, this oversized floral and heart motif transforms from delicate and soft in muted tones to outright vibrant in bolder colors. What a delightful way to pepper the grayer days with a splash of fun and color!
Cable Magic Without The Fuss
A great option for a cable hat from Iza of WhileBerryCreative for those who admire the intricate look of cable knits but dread the hassle of a cable needle! The stitches are faux cables and perfect for beginners or anyone after a satisfying project.
Grab your worsted yarn and 5mm needles, and you’re on your way to a stylish beanie, gift-ready or keep-forever-worthy!
The Lucky $77 Yarn Giveaway
7 lucky winners, so you have a great chance of winning…
Tailor Your Own Timeless Turtleneck
The Foxy Steps sweater caught my eye with its elegant midi length and cozy turtleneck design. I’m excited about the lace stitch that pays homage to, you guessed it, the delicate steps of a fox.
Knitted from bottom to top, this design is beautifully seamless, and you can easily adjust the length. Just remember to grab more yarn!
Knit A Quilt Full of Memories!
I adore the concept behind the Knitting Bee Quilt by MtnSongDesigns. The idea of creating a quilt with knitted squares that each hold a memory is so touching.
What’s more, it’s seamless!
This design allows for easy customization, making it perfect for using yarns of different weights.
Tiny Knitted Christmas Charms
Isn’t the idea of a knitted Christmas house decoration delightful? What a lovely addition to any tree! This accessible project is perfect for knitters looking to add a handmade touch to their holiday decor.
Ideal for single pointed needles, it’s crafted flat and will be a festive joy to create.
Mitten Magic
I adore the flexibility of this mitten design. The sizes from small to extra-large makes it perfect for anyone looking to craft a gift or simply upgrade their winter wardrobe.
The option to use circular or double-pointed needles is fantastic for knitters of all skill levels. Plus, there’s instructional videos!
Beautiful Simplicity
The Amalia Throw is a testament to the beauty of simple stitches and quick results. What I particularly appreciate is the versatility and the beginner-friendly approach.
The recommended yarn is chunky (US Size 6.)
Sweet Leaves
The Lil’ Rosebud dress from OGE Knitwear captures the essence of baby knitwear: simple yet enchanting! Knitters will appreciate the clear, row-by-row instructions and the lovely leaves running along the sides.
Perfect for intermediate knitters, it’s worked with US 5 (3.75mm) needles in a comforting garter stitch. No seams to sew, which is a breath of fresh air.
Brighten Your Planters
This honecomb design plant pot cozy is just delightful! It’s perfect for beginner knitters who want to practice knitting in the round. What’s great is the size flexibility. Diane from DRHandKnitGoods nailed the simplicity and charm with this one.
You can knit it using Aran or bulky yarn with size 8 US Double Pointed Needles. Just imagine the cozy sitting pretty on your window sill!
Vintage Tattoo Art Decor
Who knew knitting could meet vintage tattoo vibes so charmingly? This quirky design by Rubyandthefoxes caught my eye for its fun and colorful depiction of ‘Craft’.
It’s perfect for adding a splash of personality to any craft room or living space. Complete with a 5-button closure and an option to hang as art, it’s versatile too!
Materials you’ll need: DK Yarn, 4mm needles, and some enthusiasm!
Craft a Cuddly Companion
The Merri Molly design by Cinthia Vallet is just delightful! I appreciate how it’s designed for seamless knitting from start to finish—no fuss with assembly or sewing. The thoughtful design ensures an enjoyable process, where the character comes to life on your needles, stitch by stitch.
Insider Knitting Inspiration…
A Knitwear Designer’s Passion For Creating Yarn
Julie Hoover’s passion for yarn shines through in her latest update about her second yarn creation: a luxurious light-fingering blend of wool and cashmere.
I’m touched by the care she takes in each step, from spinning at the mill to its sourcing from Tibetan nomads. It’s thrilling to think of the natural colors and the inventive designs she plans to unveil.
Tips To Tame Yarn Tangles
Hunter Hammersen just saved my knitting sanity again! Her tutorial is a must-watch for anyone struggling with tangled yarn. She shares a crucial but often overlooked tip about loading yarn onto a swift correctly. It’s simple and super effective!
The Summertime Knitting Marvel
I couldn’t agree more with Jessica McDonald’s writing on knitting with linen for warmer days. Linen, with its delicate drape and cooling properties, is ideal for summer tees or dresses. Jessica’s tips really simplify the switch from wool to linen.
Especially useful is the suggestion to use wooden needles to combat linen’s slipperiness. If you’re preparing for summer knitting, this is your go-to guide!
Revive Your Yarn With This Clever Trick
Isn’t it wonderful how a simple tip can breathe new life into old materials? I came across this delightful video from honarr_baftt and was instantly impressed by the creative approach to rejuvenating worn yarn.
Give it a try next time your yarn seems past its prime!
Discover The Magic of SoCal Fiber Fair
I just read about Lauren Rad’s experience at the SoCal Fiber Fair, and it sounds like an absolute dream for knitting enthusiasts! Organized to perfection with aisles of booths, it’s a bustling hub for creativity and community.
I love the sound of the variety, from yarns to project bags, making it not just a market, but a vibrant festival of fibers.
Perfecting The 2×2 Ribbing Bind-Off
Recently I stumbled upon a method that solves the rearranged 2×2 ribbing conundrum. What a great find!
Knit The Linen Stitch With Ease
Elizabeth Smith’s tutorial on the linen stitch in the round makes grasping the concept a breeze, especially her tip on using an odd number of stitches.
Practical, straightforward, and just what any knitter needs to add a bit of texture to their projects. Perfect for those who love details!
Save Your Stitches: A Handy Tip for Dropped Cast-Ons
I just love how Knitlifeoils has made it simpler to rescue sneaky dropped stitches at the cast on edge. Remember, the fix varies depending on the type of cast on you use, so it’s worth bookmarking this tip for your future projects. Fewer frustrations ahead!
Diagonal Basket Weave (Knitting!)
The Diagonal Basket Weave Cable Stitch video by Studio Knit is a gem for anyone looking to add texture to their projects. This stitch has incredible depth and a luxurious feel, making it ideal for home decor like plush cushions or chunky throws.
Kristen McDonnell really breaks down the technique into manageable steps.
A Blanket Of Memories & Comfort
The Mitred Square Blanket is an adventure! Using the 3.25mm Clover Takumi bamboo needles not only provides a comforting, slow-paced work but also ensures stitches stay where they should. The gradual transition from square to blanket, with all its colorful softness, makes it a living diary in yarn!
Seeing the project evolve without cumbersome sewing brings a delightful simplicity to the knitter’s journey. What memories will your squares hold?
Effortless Undoing
Courtney from flynnknit has shared a splendid tip for taking back our stitches without the pain! She suggests using a stitch-holder cord as a lifeline – why didn’t I think of that? It’s far quicker than traditional methods.
Two-Color Checks
The Two-Color Check Stitch is a real Mosaic gem! This striking effect can be achieved just by alternating colors and slipping stitches. It’s simpler than it looks.
Perfect for those who want to add a touch of visual intrigue to their projects without the complexity of advanced colorwork. Give it a try on your next hat or cowl project.
Hope this issue has inspired your next knitting project!
Was this valuable to you? How could I make it more useful for you?
Leave a comment or contact me with what you’d like to see. And as an extra thank you for sending me your feedback, I’ll have a surprise for you… 😀
P.S. Such colorful woodland socks!
The Lucky $77 Yarn Giveaway
7 lucky winners, so you have a great chance of winning…
