tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54466161556134110862024-03-12T21:54:16.138-07:00T W I S T E D K N I TFor anyone who can relate to a middle-aged mom who lives, breathes and eats creativity.Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12228274815624246078noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5446616155613411086.post-71147390994624429172012-09-07T18:29:00.000-07:002012-09-07T18:32:26.353-07:00Why it's a Christmas miracle...in September?!?Thought that would get your attention. The only miracle happening here is the fact that I got on my blog and posted. That, my friend, is a small but triumphant feet!
Now onto the happenings, I'm just about ready to open my etsy shop, Needle and String. At the moment I'm fiddling with a few things to list..mostly of the knitting genre but I'm also delving into hand embroidery..which I must say is pretty freakin' fun. For those of you that love fast projects (those projects that you can finish in a day or two) and enjoy art (drawing, painting etc) then I urge you to give this a shot. I've bought a few embroidery patterns. These Sellers are my favorite:
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/bigBgsd">BigBgsd</a>,
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/polkaandbloom">Polka and Bloom</a>,
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/countrygarden">Country Garden</a>
and finally, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/sarahjanestudios">Sarah Jane Studios</a>
All of their embroidery patterns are amazing and if you feel like getting a little crafty you could always add them to your knitting. For example, I made <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Eweology/princess-crown">Princess Crown</a> and added some nifty embroidery.
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lM8knCzTCAQ/UEqfMzssMHI/AAAAAAAAAGY/-PRgLxgNMSw/s1600/Crown.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lM8knCzTCAQ/UEqfMzssMHI/AAAAAAAAAGY/-PRgLxgNMSw/s320/Crown.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
One of my older projects for my niece was the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Eweology/one-skein-hooded-baby-sweater">One-Skein Hooded Sweater</a>. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wx1UviPeCNk/UEqYGbdWhZI/AAAAAAAAAGE/ePE0dKALYYM/s1600/Sweater.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wx1UviPeCNk/UEqYGbdWhZI/AAAAAAAAAGE/ePE0dKALYYM/s320/Sweater.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I love the detail aspect that embroidery can bring to a project. Its amazing how much a lazy daisy or even a french knot can add. Here are some links to some easy tutorials.
<a href="http://stitchschool.blogspot.com/2009/12/stitch-school-lazy-daisy.html">Stitch School</a> has a great tutorial. Pictures and step by step instructions. Also <a href="http://www.holiday-crafts-and-creations.com/lazy-daisy-stitch.html">Holiday Crafts</a> tutorial has an easy step by step tutorial.
Lastly, if you're looking for a handful of different stitches then check out <a href="http://www.embroidery.rocksea.org/">Sarah's Hand Embroidery Tutorials</a>. She has many different types of stitches that anyone can use.
I'd love to see what you come up with so please post your patterns so I can take a gander.
Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12228274815624246078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5446616155613411086.post-86856767295398841222012-04-03T14:05:00.000-07:002012-04-03T14:05:51.444-07:00PatternsI dream a lot. No not the lay down..go to sleep..and dream sorta dreams but the dreams you have about your life..visualizations of what you would like to accomplish..I have a simple ones..to raise my daughters to be productive members of society..to lose 20 err 30 lbs...but the one I would really like to accomplish is to simply design a pattern. I know, I know..sounds silly and simplistic but I fear that my creativity and knowledge isn't quuuuuuuuuite where it should be. I see all these clever designers, doing that thing they do, and think to myself "Self, there is no way in Haiti's that you could ever be that clever." Self doubt? Yep. Big time. I've bought all the books and even tried to sketch a few things..joined TKGA for the Master Knitting program..I don't even know where to start? Where does one start? I guess research is in order..After some careful consideration I came up with a quick outline of what one must do to create a successful pattern.<br />
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1. Visualize<br />
2. Swatch<br />
3. Calculate<br />
4. Construct<br />
5. Test<br />
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I think its accomplishing each one of those that's giving me such a hard time. How does one visualize something? And then..how does one pick the appropriate yarn? Calculating? I flunked math..then construct. Bah! I realize I'm being a negative Nancy here but I have no idea whatsoever how to get from point A to point B. There has got to be some sort of formula, right? I guess its for me to figure out..until next time.Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12228274815624246078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5446616155613411086.post-13288593551111436632011-10-15T08:10:00.000-07:002011-10-15T08:10:53.531-07:00The Daily GrindI haven't knitted in four and a half weeks. At this point, I currently have over ten projects started.....in various stages of construction that should really be picked up and finished. I think part of the problem is that I started back to work...after a year and a half being home I decided I was ready to get back to the daily grind. Working full-time, being a mother and wife and staying on top of everything is a difficult task so finding that small bit of time to do something I truly enjoy is nearly impossible. My personal time is in competition with daily chores, exercise, work, cooking and kid time...as the old saying goes "there's just not enough hours in a day". There are some positives to working..bringing in the extra cash is nice, especially with one kid in college and the other just a mere 4 and 1/2 years away. Plus I can actually spend money on knitting without feeling guilty..well I do feel a little guilt..have you seen my stash? I'm on the verge of bypassing stashing to entering the world of hoarding..even I have to acknowledge the fact that I could not possibly knit everything in my stash..So here I sit....with my piles of yarn....but simply not any time to create. I know it won't always be like this..that I'll eventually learn how to carve out time for myself and but like anything else in life there is a learning curve.Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12228274815624246078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5446616155613411086.post-17873436540687826952011-08-18T09:03:00.000-07:002011-08-18T09:06:51.835-07:00The Miseries of Knitting for a 13 y/oMy youngest starts 8th grade Monday. So I thought as a treat I'd knit up something for her to start the year off "right". We perused some sites and came up with a cardigan she liked:<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/23195253@N04/6056428828/" title="alexs sweater by kimberly_cordero@sbcglobal.net, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6199/6056428828_9f6473483f.jpg" width="328" height="400" alt="alexs sweater"></a><br />
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08/12/2011: First attempt. Knit 2/3's of the cardigan only to discover that the two skeins of yarn I was working with were two different whites. :/<br />
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I ended up ripping it completely back because the initial skein I used was the only off-white skein I had. Aye Carumba!?<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/23195253@N04/6044550930/" title="DSCF5131 by kimberly_cordero@sbcglobal.net, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6184/6044550930_284f169f6c_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="DSCF5131"></a><br />
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08/16/2011: Second Attempt. Decided I would try this from a different approach and knit it top down in a raglan style. Yeah. Not. After knitting a good 1/4 of this sweater I noticed I had THREE arms. :/<br />
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08/17/2011: Third Attempt. Again with the raglan top down style. After knitting all day at the shop and coming home..I took one look at the "ew" look on Alex's face..then compared what I had to the picture..then proceed to rip it completely back. The fabric was way too bulky and not at all even close to what Alex wanted. After looking at the picture further I see now that the sleeves are set-in rather than raglan. So here I go..Fourth attempt!?<br />
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08/17/2011: After my miserable three prior attempts I decided, again, that I would go in another direction. Since the knit fabric looks to be smaller (maybe a dk weight yarn) I toss the yarn aside that I had originally purchased to make this sweater. Reswatched in a dk yarn (Debbie Bliss' Cathay) and decided I liked the look. I've calculated my swatch and knit approximately an inch on the ribbing. Lets hope "fourth" times the charm and that my arms don't fall off as I try and finish this by Monday. :/Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12228274815624246078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5446616155613411086.post-4034836774409760402011-07-27T05:33:00.000-07:002011-07-27T06:02:15.526-07:00Baby KnitsThere is nothing like a new baby in the family to jumpstart anyones knitting. The projects are quick, pretty simple and super adorable! Now that my niece, Chloe, has been born I've been on a baby knitting crusade. I've decided that I like baby knits immensely and am thinking I just should stick to the smaller projects because my knitting A.D.D. doesn't get a chance to kick in. With all of my cardis, and any other knitting projects that take more than a month to complete, I end up losing interest, sitting whatever project aside and take a chance losing interest altogether. With currently over 30 projects in the works, its nice to see some finished additions to my project page. Plus they look so darn cute on that baby!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/23195253@N04/5979289514/" title="Untitled by kimberly_cordero@sbcglobal.net, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6126/5979289514_3975c932bd_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt=""></a>Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12228274815624246078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5446616155613411086.post-13777838840229128682011-04-28T08:37:00.000-07:002011-04-28T08:37:47.780-07:00Vacation KnittingVacation knitting! Love it! Over analyze it! It's funny. When preparing for a vacation the first thing on my list is "What project shall I bring?" That's when the monster in me comes out to play. I mean really, you have to have a project that is easy..mindless..doesn't require my entire suitcase full of knitting tools etc etc. Then comes the research. I start going through my list of patterns..researching patterns on Rav...looking at projects done with yarn already in my stash..then it starts to roll a little outta control. I find a project but I don't seem to have any yarn in my stash that will complete this to my satisfaction (yeah riiiiiight). So then I purchase the yarn. Then I find other yarn that will be simply perfect for a cardigan...but alas..I have no pattern satisfactory for the yarn..so I buy a pattern..this continues until I now have four..yes FOUR..vacation projects. All cardigans. I'm only going on vacation for 10 days. Now I'm sure you're wondering how I rectify this in my mind..and here's the math:<br />
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1) There's the wait time at the airport..at least a few hours worth..I shall knit! <br />
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2) The flight alone is 15 hours..I figure if I knit super fast..intent on making the Guiness Book of World Records as the fastest knitter..get no sleep..I can surely (don't call me shirley..giggle..I had to say that) finish at least one cardigan.<br />
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3) I'll be relaxing on the ship for a least a few hours of day...what will I do? Hey, I know! Knit..so I figure I can finish at least another cardigan. <br />
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4) Lastly, the trip home..again why can't I finish another whole cardigan..my lord I'm delusional!<br />
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Wow..after reading that I think I really need some professional help. In all reality I probably won't even get half-way through one project but I so enjoy imagining all the finished projects I get to bring home. I love the thought of having a project I can have, keep, and remember the time I had when going to [insert vacation destintion]. It's the best souvenior of all! Along with the memories and photographs. ;) <br />
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The patterns I plan on bringing:<br />
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1) <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/hay-cardigan">Hay Cardigan</a> using Madelinetosh Tosh Merino Light in forestry;<br />
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2) <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/kira">Kira</a> using either Rowan RYC Baby Alpaca DK in Spring Leaf or Madelinetosh Pashima in Isadora; <br />
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3) <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/lily-cardigan">Lily</a> using Elsebeth Lavold Silky Wool in Burnt Orange; and Lastly<br />
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4) <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/walnuss">Walnuss</a> using Madelinetosh Pashmina in Charcoal.<br />
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Here's hopin' I at least get to finish one! ;)Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12228274815624246078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5446616155613411086.post-66770887984600637682011-04-12T02:16:00.000-07:002011-04-12T02:16:55.697-07:00My Knitting Eludes Me!Sometimes my knitting simply eludes me...either I get sidetracked with things I feel are more important...or I'm interrupted by one or more of the following (1) the husbeast; (2) the child(ren)beasts; or (3) my motherly duties i.e. cleaning, bathing, errands, dog duty etc. I think you get the idea..so how does one carve out time for themselves? Without being interrupted? Lock themselves in the closet, bathroom, car? I'm honestly hoping that I can buckle down and get three projects finished by the end of the month..yes I said three..are you laughing at me? Okay I'm actually laughing at myself..I know I know..impossible, right? :/Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12228274815624246078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5446616155613411086.post-21367051627315884792011-03-02T07:39:00.000-08:002011-03-02T07:39:38.513-08:00I've Discovered The Destash GroupBoredom...Boredom gets you in trouble. I know I should be productive. I have like a hundred million projects that I want done but sometimes I just find myself on Ravelry. This is when I get into trouble. I start to nose around and discover things. Like unusual patterns...new stitches..and Destash groups. Yep, the latter is what got me in trouble. I start to peruse this group and discover "Wow, people are actually selling their stash and some prices are actually reasonable, if not down right cheap!" Then I start to buy...now I'm a few dollars poorer, but man did I get some pretty yarn! Just what I needed. :/Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12228274815624246078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5446616155613411086.post-91230210990854846522011-02-22T09:01:00.000-08:002011-07-27T06:01:22.325-07:00Come Hell or High WaterSocks. I knit them. I wear them. Essentially I love them but there are a certain pair of socks I've been attempting to knit for about 2 months now...I knitted..then ripped back...knitted..ripped back..then I totally ripped back the whole project and started over. I have other things I need to do..I have other things I desire to do but I will not let these socks get the best of me. I wish I could blame the pattern, but its not the pattern, its me. You know those patterns where you need 110% concentration or you lose your place and if you lose your place you're screwed. Well meet Mystery Sock III: Family Jewels by Wendy Gaal. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/23195253@N04/5385036078/" title="DSCF2799 by kimberly_cordero@sbcglobal.net, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5211/5385036078_0a902f52a6_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="DSCF2799" /></a><br />
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Its wonderfully written and interesting but I just can't seem to finish it. I'm worried if I walk away from it now it'll become a UFO and I won't ever finish it. I'm in a quandary. I might have to concede defeat and realize that my brain is not equipted to handle such difficult patterns. Ugh! I will not concede..pattern you will not win!Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12228274815624246078noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5446616155613411086.post-12591159088757172092011-02-21T10:51:00.000-08:002011-02-21T11:06:40.248-08:00I've regressed to the behavior of a 3-yr old.I've decided that I have the self-control of a three year old...no seriously...when it comes to buying yarn, patterns or anything else I have no self control. <br />
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The problem is, I see a pattern I like, in fact, I LOVE the pattern, I must have the pattern and if I don't get that pattern (together with the suggested yarn, needles, project bag, notions etc) I'll die a gruesome sad death that will stain the history of the world for ages. I get mesmorized and I dream of all the places I can wear it..how romantic and full my life will be...with my hair whipping in the wind...riding horseback along the beach...in the coveted (finished) object, which is now instantly making me look 20 lbs thinner and 15 years younger. See how delusional I am..I guess my point is, I've decided that here recently I needed to add something like 6 or 7 new projects to my already overly extended project list.<br />
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My first mistake was opening the newest email from Interweave Knits revealing their newest book: "Vintage Modern Knits: Contemporary Designs Using Classic Techniques". From this book alone I have committed myself to four patterns: "Abigail Hand Warmers", "Ajiro Scarf", "Whitby Stockings" and "Yvette Rossitud Hat". So, I decide that I had to have the recommended yarn, I mean because none of the 150 skeins of yarn I already have will do, and I visit a yarn site to place an order...Alas, as I'm on the website, I come across another pattern: "#12 Cable Tunic" from the Vogue Knitting, Winter 2009/10 issue...I think to myself, ohhhh pretty, hmmmm I really could use another sweater..cuz hey, one can't have too many sweaters, right? So I bought more yarn. Disgusted with myself, I get off the yarn site.<br />
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Then I get on Ravelry, hoping to divert my attention. That's where I picked up the last two projects along with the suggested yarn. After adding an additional 30 plus skeins of yarn to my already overflowing stash, I am now forced to face the end result of my foolishness and mayhem. I now must butter my husband up, rub his feet and cook his favorite food in hopes that when he sees the current charges on the credit card he won't move my belongings to the tool shed. I guess my husband's right "Moderation is the key". Unfortunately, I think I've misplaced that key, along with my mail key..the key to my old house...the key to the lock on the gate I can no longer open cuz I lost the key..I really need to find that damn key.Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12228274815624246078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5446616155613411086.post-47547288435019541822011-02-10T09:05:00.000-08:002011-02-10T09:05:05.426-08:00Why Does My Garage Door Hate Me?I realize...completely off topic..but seriously! Everyone can open it with ease..one touch of the remote and up it goes...then there's me..one touch of the remote..up about one-quarter of an inch then stops..hit the remote again..goes down..hit remote..up one-quarter of an inch AND an extra inch..this goes on for about five minutes..then finally..after the garage door has had its fun with me..does it go up...I know my neighbors have got to be watching from their dining room window just laughing their ass off..why do you hate me garage door..what have I ever done to you...well other than run into you twice and throw you off your track...but seriously..can't we just be friends?!?Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12228274815624246078noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5446616155613411086.post-55840108670601000982011-01-08T09:08:00.000-08:002011-01-08T09:08:16.821-08:00Most Expensive YarnI've read a few topics on Ravelry regarding the price of yarn...how much would you pay for yarn? the most expensive yarn you've bought? would you pay this much for yarn? I always read these threads with great interest because I know, for me, I don't mind paying a pretty penny for a great skein of yarn. Its a matter of quality. I love the texture. The feel of the yarn working through my fingers and the excitement I get when I see my project grow into something beautiful and unique. I love exotic fibers and I guess you can call me a yarn snob...once you start knitting with quality fibers you can tell the difference between cheaper yarns (and I say that with no insult intended) and the more expensive yarns. Knitting for me is more than a hobby for me...it's a way of escape...an outlet for my creativity and something I sincerely love and adore. Who can put a price on that? Btw the most expensive yarn I've purchased would be a skein of Qivuit...$78 and I'm going to make myself something gloooorious with that skein..I promise ;)Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12228274815624246078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5446616155613411086.post-12384147269415045482010-11-02T09:01:00.000-07:002010-11-02T09:01:51.180-07:00Drama: Table for OneAttention: Flu season has hit...with the full force of a Mac-10 truck..both girls have ear infections and I'm feeling all itchy and achy (fingers crossed that I'm not catching their cooties) which has completely interrupted my knitting time! I'm desperately trying to finish a Christmas blanket for my brother-n-law and sister-n-law, but the progress is slooowwwww....I mean incredibly slow..away..so with my needles a'clickin!I'm still tickin' (okay that was incredibly fruity, but hey it rhymed lol) <br />
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On a side note, I think I might start my knitting for the Masters Knitting Program through the TKGA..fingers crossed and I'll definitely post my progress on here..<br />
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Stay healthy, happy and nutty, KimKimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12228274815624246078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5446616155613411086.post-43748427318129409932010-08-27T09:55:00.000-07:002010-08-27T09:55:26.794-07:00Why Can't I Finish?!?!Why is it when I get 80% of my project done I can't push past that last 20%? Every single time I get a project just about done I start another one. I figure its due to my being bored but still. Currently I have three projects I'm *just* about finished with but for some craaazy reason I just can't get into them...I have to be in the mood. I hate hate hate doing things, especially hobbies, when I'm not enjoying them. I suppose everyone has those moments but it's like I have FO A.D.D. Then to make matters worse I start other projects.<br />
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The first of one of those such projects was actually a test knit for Carol Sunday called Adam's Rib Hoodie...it was a complicated knit but I enjoyed the complexity of it and the challenge. But there it sits, languishing in its designated knitting bag beside my bed begging to be finished!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/23195253@N04/4859023216/" title="042 by kimberly_cordero@sbcglobal.net, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4114/4859023216_2628fa48d1_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="042" /></a><br />
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I think part of the problem is that I feel its too big for me. I'm actually debating on whether I should frog it and make another one..one with long sleeves..but I honestly hate to do this because it took me many many months to actually get it to this point.<br />
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The second such project Cloud Chaser..all that needs to be done with it is the collar..that's it!!! I was actually supposed to have this done prior to going to vacation at the beginning of this month..:/<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/23195253@N04/4858383917/" title="014 by kimberly_cordero@sbcglobal.net, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4141/4858383917_9eae91ab24_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="014" /></a><br />
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The last but certainly not least is my daughter's socks. I have one fully finished and the other 1/3 of the way done..<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/23195253@N04/4858389081/" title="018 by kimberly_cordero@sbcglobal.net, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4116/4858389081_68f3c5d7af_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="018" /></a><br />
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To make my life more complicated I decided I would start two other projects, the Little Red Riding Hoodie and a self written pattern based loosely on another pattern I kinda liked..Hopefully I can get that one posted and even put on Ravelry :)..I suppose I like feeling as if I have plenty to do..and as long as its not stressing me out its fine..right?!?!<br />
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Knit and be Happy, KimKimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12228274815624246078noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5446616155613411086.post-34859736917936791962010-05-05T09:44:00.000-07:002010-05-05T09:44:48.244-07:00True Meaning of LifeEver since I was young I have been the rescuer...the rescuer of the kids on the playground that were being bullied..the rescuer of the stray dog..now that I'm older that hasn't changed..I've always felt that as humans we should always protect those who cannot protect themselves. I try to teach these simple principles to my girls and have actually gotten my husband on board. Yesterday we went to the rescue of a tiny terrier mix who was due to be put down today. The dog was an animal my daughter was familiar with and when we found out that he was brought to the pound we felt the need to act. So in lieu of this, I would like to formally introduce the newest member of our family, Scooter.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/23195253@N04/4581134117/" title="011 by kimberly_cordero@sbcglobal.net, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4036/4581134117_02e82955ef_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="011" /></a><br />
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He's been acclimating well and after removing the ticks and fleas he became friends with his new sisters, Zoey and Paris (although Paris still isn't too sure about him). His brother, Barney, doesn't like him yet, but Barney's old and cantankerous.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/23195253@N04/4581731836/" title="005 by kimberly_cordero@sbcglobal.net, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4005/4581731836_af78c2cf6d.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="005" /></a><br />
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God Bless and be happy, healthy and strong ~ KimKimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12228274815624246078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5446616155613411086.post-666844313872999942010-05-03T20:20:00.000-07:002010-05-03T20:20:06.358-07:00GardeningOkay..so with all the free time I currently have on my hands I figured why not plant a garden..so with checkbook in hand I took a trip to the gardening section at Wal-mart and purchased 80 bucks worth of tools and plants. I worked all morning and after I was finished this is what emersed...a beautiful (but small) garden. <br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/23195253@N04/4577257162/" title="001 by kimberly_cordero@sbcglobal.net, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4010/4577257162_f9833a68d8.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="001" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/23195253@N04/4576626945/" title="002 by kimberly_cordero@sbcglobal.net, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3332/4576626945_bf6db8f350.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="002" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/23195253@N04/4576628287/" title="003 by kimberly_cordero@sbcglobal.net, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3323/4576628287_56a5c63dcf.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="003" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/23195253@N04/4576629729/" title="004 by kimberly_cordero@sbcglobal.net, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4006/4576629729_4a8071926c.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="004" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/23195253@N04/4576632501/" title="006 by kimberly_cordero@sbcglobal.net, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3417/4576632501_87740f522f.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="006" /></a><br />
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Now I just have to make sure I take care of it and be patient while waiting for my tomatoes, zucchini, strawberries and artichokes. I'll be adding lettuce, garlic and some additional tomato plants next week after I return from visiting my mom. I also planted some herbs in different containers...After my adventurous day of planting I was able to finish my bed pillow I've been working on for the past two weeks and I think it came out pretty adorable<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/23195253@N04/4577265736/" title="007 by kimberly_cordero@sbcglobal.net, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4022/4577265736_3720b592cc.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="007" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/23195253@N04/4576635993/" title="008 by kimberly_cordero@sbcglobal.net, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4064/4576635993_9f7998e320.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="008" /></a><br />
...And I finally decided to start my test knit I am doing for Carol at Sunday Knits..Its kind of a complicated knit but I should be okay..<br />
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Until tomorrow!<br />
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KimKimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12228274815624246078noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5446616155613411086.post-24559087003699060622010-04-29T13:04:00.000-07:002010-04-29T13:04:45.462-07:00Time On My HandsNow that I am unemployed I have a plethora of time on my hands and have cleaned myself to complete boredom and reorganized my craft area....<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/23195253@N04/4563999466/" title="090 by kimberly_cordero@sbcglobal.net, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3024/4563999466_3a9423da6b.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="090" /></a><br />
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and purged my fibers...<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/23195253@N04/4564000878/" title="091 by kimberly_cordero@sbcglobal.net, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4028/4564000878_8cdcd4bdfe.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="091" /></a><br />
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So now I have time to pursue what I truly love...sewing, knitting and spinning. I've also finally finished my mom's Cedar Leaf Shawlette; and<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/23195253@N04/4563362675/" title="086 by kimberly_cordero@sbcglobal.net, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3203/4563362675_533f4f87b2.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="086" /></a><br />
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my Mother-in-law's quilt I made out of old furniture fabric samples...<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/23195253@N04/4563363899/" title="087 by kimberly_cordero@sbcglobal.net, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3292/4563363899_d066e75a8c.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="087" /></a><br />
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I've decided to not only be a smarter consumer but to try and repurpose those things that would normally be thrown away. Tomorrow I'm going to take a trip to the Salvation Army to check out old shirts and dresses that can be repurposed into knitting bags and cinched purses. I'm also going to concentrate on using my stash rather than add to it <i>(yeah I know I've said that before)</i> Until tomorrow my fellow knitters, spinners and sewers!<br />
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Knit on!<br />
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KimKimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12228274815624246078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5446616155613411086.post-68112492518568048862010-01-19T11:49:00.000-08:002010-01-19T11:53:35.498-08:00Good IntentionsWell so much for the fiber diet...I think it has to do something with that word "diet." As soon as that word comes out between my lips I know I'm doomed! Yes I totally flopped my first few days of my fiber diet..I think I've bought more stash than ever...so starting today! Yes today! I shall follow through and buy NO MORE stash! (and no I'm not crossing my fingers behind my back) At least my UFO's are doing a tad bit better. I ended up frogging one of my sweaters and Kyrstin's scarf. She found another one she liked at Urban Outfitters so I'm going to "try" and re-create it. It actually looks fairly simple. We shall see. <br /><br />Knit On!<br /><br />KimKimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12228274815624246078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5446616155613411086.post-43939042103269725342010-01-17T10:13:00.000-08:002010-01-17T10:30:11.046-08:00Attack of the StashOne of my New Year's Resolutions is to stash down...finish my UFO's and spin up my stash...yeah...good intentions right? While home one day last week I decided I would finally take pictures of all my yarny goodness together with all my fiber...then 110 items later I decided enough was enough..honestly when is stash just too much stash or is it like the mantra "you can never be too skinny or rich?" or "you can just never have too much stash?" I like to think if there ever was a nuclear holocaust that I'd be set...I could spin and knit many wears to help my family and others to survive..right?!? yeah right...so I ask you to join in my efforts to stash down with finishing up all those unfinished objects milling around in the dark depths of your closets! In short, this blog will become Kim's misadventures on her journey to not buy yarn *coughrightcough* and to finish those 30 or so UFO's just hanging around laughing at her..this should be interesting. <br /><br />First UFO on my list:<br /><br />1. Alex's socks 2% done (hilarious)<br />2. Alex's Central Park Hoodie 10% done <br />3. My Snow Drift Cardigan 55%<br />4. Fix my next door neighbors Kitty Hat (the pom pom came off)99%<br />5. Make my next door neighbor another Kitty Hat 0%<br />6. Kyrstin's Cowl (now) 0% <br />7. Owl Sweater 0%<br />8. Bobble Mittens 0%<br />9. Princess Mittens 0%<br /><br />And I need to use and spin all that fiber sitting around mocking me. Seems doable..right? right? meh.Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12228274815624246078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5446616155613411086.post-35359396544601038902009-03-21T09:16:00.000-07:002009-03-21T09:28:50.251-07:00S p i n n i n gEver been pulled into the depths of another hobby that you truly didn't need? *raises hand* Approximately 6 months ago I traded both of my beloved Alice Starmore books (I hear all my fellow knitters gasp) and received a Babe Production Double Treadle in return. With this wonderful machine I learned how to spin a decent yarn (together with having to do major modifications to the machine and repairs...but I won't go there) I decided that 1) If this was something I wanted to continue to do I needed to get a reliable wheel and 2) I needed more fiber..I don't mean the normal person's stash, I mean a stash to outstash even the most avid spinner (because I'm sick like that)...so I continued on my journey and purchased a used Ashford Traveller and upgraded it to a double treadle and since it only came with the Jumbo Whorl i.e. two VERY slow ratios (now whose sounding all technical!) I purchased the regular whorl which gave me three additional faster ratios..Yeah! I'm still working on my "perfect" yarn...and getting better..but far from superior status that I see some of the Indy Dyer and Spinners do but I'll have to just be patient...Hopefully as I continue I'll be able to diary all my misadventures into dye and spin land and maybe even post something educational that another spinner or knitter can learn from...next on my list..getting a new cord for my camera to actually post pics! Knit on!Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12228274815624246078noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5446616155613411086.post-18210749163065984342008-11-15T10:21:00.000-08:002008-11-15T10:25:47.009-08:00FO HellI'm in FO hell. I've certainly taken WAY more on then I could ever finish and I'm feeling the pinch. I wanted to make my father, who has been diagnosed with brain cancer, a wonderfully warm angora scarf with a matching hat for his birthday (which happens to be on Thanksgiving) but I can't seem to step away from my spinning wheel. I need help or medication. So here I sit staring at all my FO's in wonderment on how the hell I'm going to finish all of this crap. I guess one project at a time, Jeeves. I'm off to create and if someone by chance happens to take a peek at my blog..pray for me lol.Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12228274815624246078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5446616155613411086.post-76418647580568382452008-08-05T17:42:00.001-07:002008-08-05T17:42:34.882-07:00Once upon a purl.....I've made a promise to myself. I will blog at least once a week. Now for me, thats a freakin' accomplishment! With all the "blah blah blah" a-typical crap working mothers have to do I think a uni formal nod of agreement is in order. Regardless of the boring daily rigmarole I do have things to share..lots of things to share..I've finished a few FO's, which I am extremely proud of! One of which is Verity by Ysolda Teaque (I heart Ysolda) which I made out of Lion Brand Wool Ease made for my adorable daughter. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zD68JTucuwc/SJji7vvhxTI/AAAAAAAAADM/bXad7QN8bCw/s1600-h/Picture+075.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zD68JTucuwc/SJji7vvhxTI/AAAAAAAAADM/bXad7QN8bCw/s200/Picture+075.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5231180483246802226" /></a> See that beautiful smile, for all those with teenagers you know how rare those are. The next FO is the Cropped Cardigan sans the leaves <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_zD68JTucuwc/SJjm2-RlleI/AAAAAAAAADc/VWLP0uyQq74/s1600-h/KB%27s+Sweater.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_zD68JTucuwc/SJjm2-RlleI/AAAAAAAAADc/VWLP0uyQq74/s200/KB%27s+Sweater.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5231184799294920162" /></a> in a pale buttery yellow Plymouth Yarn Baby Alpaca Brush Solid yarn...so soft..and yummy you could get nekkid and roll around in it..okay maybe when i was younger! Finally, I've got the "lesson" learned project..I thought I would knit up a very comfy warm sweater for vacation in Seattle, Washington i.e. Gwen out of Rowan Big Wool (see picture but please be warned...big wool makes one look umm big). <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_zD68JTucuwc/SJjo3IDGXdI/AAAAAAAAADs/gbp4Si1SEI4/s1600-h/Chunky+Sweater.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_zD68JTucuwc/SJjo3IDGXdI/AAAAAAAAADs/gbp4Si1SEI4/s320/Chunky+Sweater.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5231187000941764050" /></a> Very disappointing. It only took me a mere week but still, when you put so much energy and devote the little time you have its very disheartening when something does not turn out! Last but not least, I've got a few projects cookin in the kitchen..I'm currently workin on the Slouchy Top from the Knit.1 Spring/Summer 2008 issue..<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_zD68JTucuwc/SJjyUhjEEdI/AAAAAAAAAD0/M2bYtt5LYEg/s1600-h/Slouchy+Top.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_zD68JTucuwc/SJjyUhjEEdI/AAAAAAAAAD0/M2bYtt5LYEg/s320/Slouchy+Top.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5231197401607573970" /></a>although it has been put to the side so another Verity hat can be done for my youngest daughter and there's this baby shower in two weeks, oh and don't forget those four Christmas presents I need to do...I think I took on way too much then I could chew..but whats life without a little adventure! Knit On!Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12228274815624246078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5446616155613411086.post-26571267567711458852008-03-16T19:14:00.000-07:002008-03-16T19:36:20.962-07:00Once upon a time...I'm officially addicted..yes, do they have AA for Ravelry? I spend at least half the day on this site..it is absolutely wonderful! You can organize ur books, stash, show your FO's, queue those projects you plan on doing in the future and talk to other knitters as obsessed with knitting as you are. This website kicks ass! If you already aren't a member, I strongly recommend you put yourself on the waiting list. Together with searching the archives of Ravelry I've been busy knitting...lots! Ever get into one of those zones where you want to knits lots...I mean knit and finish lots? Totally in that zone. I don't know if its the inspiration I get from looking at everyone else's FO's or the fact that i'm ashamed that my projects aren't that great in number, but it has totally kicked my ass in gear. Since I've been on last I've knitted up the Irish Hiking Scarf<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_zD68JTucuwc/R93WfgcTwMI/AAAAAAAAAC0/TeP4NN13mUU/s1600-h/Finished+Irish+Hiking+Scarf.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_zD68JTucuwc/R93WfgcTwMI/AAAAAAAAAC0/TeP4NN13mUU/s200/Finished+Irish+Hiking+Scarf.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5178530983318896834" /></a> and Mari out of the Hip Knit Hats and the Kittyville Hat<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zD68JTucuwc/R93W1QcTwNI/AAAAAAAAAC8/GyMpE02GuM4/s1600-h/Kitty+Kat+Hat.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zD68JTucuwc/R93W1QcTwNI/AAAAAAAAAC8/GyMpE02GuM4/s200/Kitty+Kat+Hat.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5178531356981051602" /></a> Right now I'm working on the Cropped Cardigan with Leaf Ties for my eldest daughter to wear on Easter Sunday...If I get it done....I'm using Plymouth Yarn's Baby Alpaca Brush in a beautiful buttery yellow. I've never really have done and finished a cardigan before much less knitted in raglan style, which this pattern entails, so it should be interesting..I posted a link above for all to see what the Cropped Cardigan is supposed to look like and I'll post pictures of what I've come up with later..wish me luck.<br /><br />-TwistedKnitKimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12228274815624246078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5446616155613411086.post-9275832584298535842008-01-29T19:41:00.000-08:002008-01-29T19:45:09.076-08:00RavelryI've finally been invited to join Ravelry. Its a wonderful site with tons of blogs, patterns, and wonderful people who share the same interests as I do. I've even decided to join a couple of "clubs", one of which is Big Brother 9. We've decided that since Big Brother only has a run of 6 weeks that we would pick a project that we could complete in that time. I decided to give my 2-socks-at-a-time a try. We'll see if actually doing two at the same time will force me to finish them. As you know I have an odd aversion at finishing projects. I'll post some pics later showing my progress..until then..Happy Knitting.Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12228274815624246078noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5446616155613411086.post-14237760225541338412008-01-22T15:42:00.000-08:002008-02-07T09:39:53.333-08:00Scarf ManiaI've got it! My next project thanks to liquidgirl! Its called a diagonal scarf. (you can see it on her blog) Its done in short rows, which I personally have not done yet so this should be interesting.....I have come to discover I'm not as good as a knitter as I believed...No, its okay don't try and convince me otherwise..there are still a few things that elude me...like how the heck to get a stockinette stitch not to roll??? I finished my daughter's adorable striped scarf but the stupid thing keeps rolling at the edges...I've try to steam it, block it (have you ever tried to block a scarf...eek) and yes, I did it, I actually ironed it..which flattened the stupid stitches so much it looks like a different scarf. But..its still rollin..any suggestions from all you helpful knitters in cyberspace??? It kinda takes the fun out of knitting when your project doesn't come out like you want...And I've decided to try to knit socks...now this should be REALLY interesting...I bought some self-striping yarn so I don't have to mess with changing colors every other row, so I just need to concentrate on all the other things like the heel, gussett, etc. I bought Stephanie Pearl McPhee's Knitting Rules...I saw her on an episode of Knitty Gritty..so I bought the book because it has an actual formula...I've tried patterns..not so pretty..so I'm hoping I do better with this formula......so fingers crossed I will actually finish BOTH socks...I'll post pictures later. Until next time...Happy Knitting!Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12228274815624246078noreply@blogger.com0