Tuesday, December 30, 2008

NEW YEAR KNITTING RESOLUTIONS

Here are a few suggestions for you to consider when thinking about your knitting or crochet future in 09. Think about where you may need more work or maybe more courage in regards to your knitting skills or projects. You may be surprised with what you come up with and the result of your efforts.

1. Always knit a gauge when required. (hard one, I know)

2. Find time to knit or crochet for charity. (difficult but extremely worthwhile to not only the one you help, but also your mind and spirit)
3. Take control of the stash! (this one stays on the list every year!)
4. Dedicate some time each week or month to share knitting projects, skills, or advice. (Easy and fun!)

5. Study new techniques and try to make at least one major knitting event each year and encourage other knitters you know to come along. (FUUUUN)
6. Check out your local yarn and craft stores for classes and free groups to join in the community. (inspiring)
7. DARE to knit in public! (adventurous and fun to document-pics or journal- for yourself or blog)
8. Listen to podcasts (relaxing and informative) Visit knit1fortheroad.com for suggestions.
9. Join an internet community for support. (like Ravelry.com.)


10. Try to enjoy the process and any happy accidents that are included in that process.


11. Document your projects by keeping a knitting journal online or on paper and include digital photos, pattern and gauge swatch.

12. Look for inspiration around you for colors, textures, or patterns that you might want to incorporate into your knitting. These ideas can also be documented for future use.

Some new things for this blog in 09 will be more interviews with knitters, business people involved in the knitting/crochet world, Etsy artists, and people who will inspire you to make a difference with your knitting.

More knitting lessons, tips, and info being added to the blog and also to www.knit1fortheroad.com. Another book is in the works and there will be a giveaway or two. You are also encouraged to send in your finished Knit 1 for the Road patterns (in the book and from my Etsy shop, margknittinaround) and any of the Knit/Crochet Along projects for charity. You may send them to knit1fortheroad@gmail.com and I will post them on the Knit 1 for the Road gallery. This is a great way to share your creativity with others. The next knit/crochet along will be announed Janurary 09 - stay tuned!

Thanks to all of you for your emails and suggestions, reading this blog, as well as visiting my Etsy shop, and purchasing any of my patterns and of course, the book.

Have a happy and safe new year's celebration and enjoy your knitting.

Marg (working on being fully present)

Monday, December 29, 2008

YOUR KNITTING HAS GONE TUBULAR!

HAPPY ALMOST 2009! You may have noticed I've taken a few days away but now - I'm baaack - and I haven't been slacking off in finding and bringing new knitting goodies to you to help indulge your knitting side.



Namaste has a lovely tubelar bag for the knitty in you...The Knit Tube, perfect to load up yarn, needles, and all the fixins for knitting on the go. AND 3 cool colors to choose from - YUM! Cranberry, peacock and graphite - I know a difficult choice, but you can handle it. Check for a retailer on the handy Retail Locator Tab.



I hope your holiday has been wonderful - if not, than 2009 is almost here, and we get another shot at it.



knit-share-go for it in 2009!



Marg (enjoying an unseasonably warm day)

Stay tuned for more tomorrow on what's in store for 09!

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

HOLIDAY ANYONE?

ENJOY NURTURING FRIENDS, FAMILY AND YOURSELF DURING THE HOLIDAYS!

KNIT-SHARE-GO and I will be blogging again next week.

In the meantime, check out
The Host: A Novel by Stephenie Meyer, the wildly popular author of Twilight, New Moon, and Eclipse. The Host is no teen novel - although I plan to read her other novels after seeing Twilight - adults will enjoy the story as well.

Marg (knitting and crocheting projects from my stash today)


NOTE: You may notice that the myspace video slides (right hand side of this blog) aren't always working right now due to upgrades on their site. I will be working on getting them up and running over the holiday and switched over to blogger. You can still click on the CafePress link and go directly to the shop. Upgrades, UGH!

Monday, December 22, 2008

THE BEST GIFT EVER!

Just in from a busy weekend visiting with my beautiful and accomplished stepdaughter I often referred to as Cookie, as she was growing up and will refer to her now in order to maintain her privacy. Anyone who has known a teen, met a teen, or has lived with a teen knows they consider this of mega-importance when dealing with the adults. Dad and I rushed around showing Cookie as much of the really cool sites that Pittsburgh offers this time of year as we could. If you have not visited Pittsburgh, lately, the whole city is at its shiney best this time of year and well worth the visit. Between festive events and visiting with her Dad's family, Cookie expressed an interest in knitting. Well, my feet left the ground and I was filled with knitty glee! I have been hoping for this moment for several years and this was music to my ears. When I finally came back to planet Earth, I proceeded to give her a set of size 8 size knitting needles, yarn and basic instructions to get her going...and boy did she go! It's always easier to teach someone who is ready and wants to learn. I was so proud of how well she was able to catch on and her dedication to learn. Yippee!!! This was the greatest gift of all - passing on the gift of knitting to someone I love. My sister, Lea inspired me to knit and now I have passed this inspiration on to another and come full circle. Sharing and helping someone learn is the greatest gift you can give and receive and when it occurs out of the blue and during the holiday - KAPOW! that's just the universe working it's usual magic with a sense of humor.

My wish for all of you is to share your gifts and talents during the holidays and through the new year. Watch the amazing events unfold before you.

Knit-Share-Go!

Marg (wedged between two snoozing yorkies)

Friday, December 19, 2008

ETSY GETS A SHOUT OUT, YA'LL

This morning I rec'd an email from one of my handmade gift recepients filled with glee! I just love it when people "Totally Get" the handmade gift, made with tender loving care and crafty skill. I do have relatives that wouldn't touch a handmade item if it meant they could save the planet, but that's another blog.

Today, while I was getting the house ready and sneaking in some much needed knit and crochet time, I heard Joy on the View give a big shout out to Etsy. I shouted back hooray at the television and danced around! I hope the cajillion viewers totally get handmade too.

Knit-Share your knittiness and Go Green. You're AMAZING!

Marg






Wednesday, December 17, 2008

PUT THE HOLIDAY RUSH IN IDLE!


I don't know about you - but I need a little inspiration to stay motivated with all the rush and family plans, etc. Here are two books I really love and would like share with you to inspire and motivate your knitting side for awhile and leave the holiday rush side in idle. Take a big ole breath and dive in to the peaceful world of knitting inspiration. AHHHH! So good.

The Knitting Way by Linda T. Skolnik and Janice MacDaniels

Mindful Knitting: Inviting Contemplative Practice to the Craft by Tara Jon Manning


These also make mindful gifts for a knitter.

Great - now go share a little inspiration and inner peace with your friends and family.

Knit-Share-Go Mindfully into your day


Marg (working on the next installment of Knit 1 for the Road)


Tuesday, December 16, 2008

DON'T LEAVE YOUR SANTA DAZED AND CONFUSED!


As adults, we are sometimes shy about making a wishlist for Santa. LoopsKnitting.com has come up with a great way to help your Santa navigate through the knitting world to bring you what you really need and desire. Check out this knitfabulous Christmas letter for ideas and help for your Santa. Here's to no more dazed and confused Santa's wandering in the aisles of your favorite yarn store.

Save Santa Now!
Marg - watching big fat snowflakes fall outside the office window.

Monday, December 15, 2008

Knitted, Fringed and Wrapped

The last of the knitted presents is finished - Hooray!
This fabulous throw is one of LionBrand's handy free patterns and knits up quickly which we like, right? (4 strands of Jiffy yarn and Size 50 BigStix) It's called Fast Finish Throw Pattern #: 60681A and is rated Beginner. Once finished, you will have a nice warm and colorful addition to your home, office, or car.

The pattern grabbed my attention so I made it for my husband, Dave who is always trying to take my throw - yes, Virginia, men get cold too! Now he will have his own and no girls allowed. One has to wonder - Do we ever really evolve past grade school?


Thanks for all the holiday cards, emails and coming by my Etsy shop. You are awesome!

New book, new patterns, more interviews with fellow knitters/crocheters, Knit/Crochet charities, Indie artists and more are in store for you in the coming year. That's my present for you.

Knit-Share-Go!

Marg (chief elf of all things fun, frivolous and knitworthy)


Saturday, December 13, 2008

WRISTY BIZNESS


Wristy Bizness

New pattern on my Etsy shop margknittinaround.

Looking for a little something to keep those wristy's warm? Snatch this adorable, quick and easy pattern. You will also receive a free pattern with your purchase!!! Awesome prices for a signed copy of Knit 1 for the Road and Knit 1 for the Road kits and patterns.

Shop On...

Marg


Friday, December 12, 2008

ECO-WRAPPING TREASURE HUNT!

tissue, fabric paint, yarn, clear glitter

felt, beads, fabric paint, cloth wrapping, combined yarn and cloth strips in bow

Trader Joe's bag and handle(the kids favorite place to shop) collage of characters, and cartoons geared for their kid humor, and yarn

Scarves wrapped with yarn and metallic (wired) bow and stitch marker atttached - hand made note. What better wrapping than the colorful scarf itself?!

Handmade notes on inspiration for scarves. It's been my experience that people like a little story or blurb to go with their knitted item.


ADVENTURES from my eco-wrapping treasure hunt...Yesterday, I was totally caught up in eco-wrapping presents for friends and family I didn't have the mental strength to blog - I know - can you believe it? I'm making up for it today and sharing my crafty recycle, reuse wrapalicious creations. so there - i confess - i got totally swept away by holiday craziness. keep in mind that these were created for each personality - witty and hip tweens n' teens to 50 is the new 30 crowd.
I hope you'll consider recycling and reusing items on your packages this year. It's a great way to spread awareness and teach kids about the importance of recycling. You can even make it a family project! Use kid energy, imagination and make amazing holiday gift wrapping. Send them on a hunting expedition for useable items and share in the creation.
Happy Holiday Knitting, Crocheting and Crafting!
Marg (enjoying all the cards and messages from Knitters for Obama cardswap on Ravelry)

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

SERENDIPITY

Every time I go to an event, I pick up a pair of Serendipity knitting needles which are smooth wooden needles with decorative polymer clay finials. They're fun, sturdy and make a great conversation piece. Don't be surprised if people - especially kids, are drawn to you when you're knitting with these decorative knitting needles. You can find them online at FlyingFingers, one of my favorite online shops. Each pair is unique. Do visit the sites for pics of these fun needles.

Hooray for uniqueness!


Knit-Share-Go!


Marg (working on a holiday wrap with moda dea, tweedle dee - so fun!)

Visit margknittinaround for Knit 1 for the Road patterns, kits, and recession busting deals and a free pattern with purchase!


Tuesday, December 9, 2008

ADORABLE AMI ANYONE?

FALL/WINTER 2008 ISSUE



Are you an amigurumi lover? How about a dozen chinese zodiac ami's from one simple pattern? I thought that might get your attention. If you have the latest knit.1 mag you can turn to pgs 22-23. If not, no worries you can go to Knit.1 online for all the cute, adorable ami madness! These playful designs are brought to you by Ana Paula Rinoli and are all made with LionBrand's Vanna's Choice Yarn.

Do grab the Fall /Winter Knit.1 mag if you can - it's jam full of knitting wonder!

knit-share-go!

Marg wishing you fabulous yarn for the holidays!

Monday, December 8, 2008

INTERVIEW FOR YOU!

Gather 'round the knitting couch - I'd like to start the week off with an interview with Marilyn King of Abbeyyarns.com. I met Marilyn at the Knitters Connection event in Ohio and recently at StitchesEast in Maryland. I was taken in by the beautiful yarns, awesome color cards and display booth as well as Marilyn's keen ability to make her customers feel welcome. I felt like a bit of Ireland had come to me.
I encourage you to visit the website and take in the yarnie goodness for yourself. You will definitely make Marilyn your first stop when she comes to an event near you.


Now click those knitting needles together for a warm knitfabulous welcome for our guest, Marilyn King!

Q. Marilyn, how and when did you start the shop?

A. I don’t actually have a shop. I have a home-based business and focus on internet sales and participation in selected knitting events. I started the business 10 years ago.

Q. Where are you located when you’re not traveling?

A. I live in Aurora, Colorado, a suburb in Denver.

Q. Why did you start your business?

A. I started the business after traveling to Ireland where I found a mill that produced the yarn I sell. I thought it provided a business opportunity so I wrote a marketing plan, presented it to the mill owner who liked the idea.

Q. How many events do you attend a year?

A. Last year I attended 7 events around the country.

Q. Wow! Do you have any tips on handling the stress of traveling?

A. Take your knitting!

Q. Any tips for those who would like to begin their own business?

A. Have a good business plan, stick to it, and have enough operating capital to weather the ups and downs. Remember that you need to be customer focused and that you won’t be able to knit nearly as much as you want to.

Q. What is your favorite yarn?

A. The yarn I sell!
Since I don’t have a shop, but only sell two types of yarn, I’d have to say those are my two favorites.

Q. Who’s your favorite designer?

A. Kathy Zimmerman would have to be high on the list

Q. Do you create your own designs?

A. Yes

Q. How do you pick the items you sell?

A. I have chosen to stay very focused- just selling yarn from Ireland, so other items I sell relate directly to that yarn. So I sell buttons that compliment the yarn and only patterns that are appropriate for the yarn.

Q. What’s your favorite food to eat when traveling?

A. Plain M & M s

Q. How do you stay motivated?

A. Good question. After 10 years I still love what I do. I think there is always that desire to do better and so far that seems to motivate me. Feedback from customers definitely helps!

Q. What’s the most important aspect of your business that brings you joy?

A. The wonderful support I get from customers- both in terms of repeat business and helpful feedback.

Q. Where would you like to be in 10 years?

A. Knitting more and maybe traveling a little less.

Q. Is there anything else you would like to mention to the readers? Upcoming events, sales, etc.

A. I have finally started a newsletter and would love to encourage anyone interested in receiving it to sign up at my website (http://www.abbeyyarns.com/)

Thank you so much, Marilyn, for taking time out for this interview. Your tips, experience and enthusiasm are definitely encouraging to all of us who are striving to knit, work, and balance our lives, as well as control our intake of those yummie plain m & m's.

I hope you have enjoyed today's interview. There will be more in the future so stay tuned!

Knit-Share-Go!

Marg

Friday, December 5, 2008

A COOL YULE YARNIE TOOL




Searching for the perfect knitting tool to add to your wishlist or a valuable present for a knitter? Check out the WPI Tool and KnitCard. Portable, and handy for checking yarn weight and gauge which can vary according to the manufacturer. Sooo helpful - I knew you'd love this tool. Knit Picks has them now, along with some other small knitting accessories that fit your recession buster budget.
Keep wishing! Keep thinking, who needs my knitting/crochet skills today? And keep changing peoples' lives with your inspiring wit and knit/crochet attitutude. Small steps, huge changes - you ROCK!
Knit - Share - Go!
Marg (looking forward to a wintery weekend of hot chocolate and knitting)

Thursday, December 4, 2008

GET MAGNETIZED!

AnnieAdams Pewter Knitting Magnets are now available at DreamWeaver! Just added today, as a matter of fact. Hey, I keep up with these things for the knitty hearted. A nifty little stocking stuffer for you or a yarnie friend! Just a little something to add to your wish list ;) and make you smile.

Enjoy another day and opportunity to Knit-Share-Go!

Marg

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

YARNIE CRAFT SMACKDOWN!

Can yarnies do other crafts? What happens when glitter slams into yarn? Are dinasaur bandaides appropriate for papercuts? These are the questions that came to mind when I decided to declare this Christmas handmade, recycled, but not reused as in regifting (OH NO!)



I decided to break out the glitter and go ala Crafty Chica style. I just love Kathy's work and her great spirit. If you have not seen her work -DOOO visit her website and enjoy the craftyness. This year I made some handmade ornaments for friends and customized them by cutting out colors, designs, animals and words that reminded me of them gluing them to a plain glass ornament. I added glittter, modpodge, and some cheap hairspray to seal the glitter and yarn bow in place...most dollar stores carry these items and you can create your collage using catalogs or magazines.






No Christmas would be complete without a warm scarf in a fun pattern to make. This pattern is the Matsuri Scarf pattern and knits up quickly. The yarn is Nuance.





Last, but not least, a 4 stranded throw made with big sticks! These needles are US size 50 (25mm) and the yarn is Jiffy by LionBrand and the pattern is a FAST Finish Throw which is a FREE pattern ;)

Well, as you can see, I have to get busy and finish my Fast Finish Throw!

Knit-Share-Gooooo HO HO HO!

Marg (needs a Christmas punch to get through all the madness - and maybe a monster cookie, too)

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

NEAR NORTH HAVEN?

The Connecticut Etsy Team will be in North Haven CT on December 6 from 10-4 at the North Haven Holiday Inn. Visit the link to get the scoop on vendors, location, and do support them :) It's a great way to show your enthusiasm for the creative, hardworking handmade crafter and grab unique items for those lucky people on your gift list.

If you aren't in the area, but would still like to visit these fantabulous shops- no worries - there's an Etsy link to each vendor on the link above. :) I got your back.

There's something for everyone...and will leave you more time to Knit-Share-Go!

Marg (working on some hand dyed yarn today)

Monday, December 1, 2008

CLASP THAT KNIT IN STYLE!

Knitting holiday neckwear and need a handy clasp? MagKnit has just that perfect item for you that will help you give a finished look to your knitted scarves and neckwear. It's also an elegant clasp for any beadwork - hooray! DreamWeaver also has them available along with patterns. There are several options to choose from to make your neckwear unique. Just another cool item I saw at Stitches East. ;)

Hope you all are navigating through the holiday season smoothly and making some relaxing knit and crochet time. It's a tough balancing act for sure so be kind to yourself. I've been pretty turbo for the past few weeks too. Knitters need plenty of excercise, good food, and a healthy knit attitude.

Now back to your regularly scheduled knitting!

Marg (feverishly working on hubby's present tonight)

VISIT knit1fortheroad.com for fun links, info, and more!

Sunday, November 30, 2008

IT'S RAW, IT'S REAL, IT'S ADORABLE!

Pandan Tote

Hi all! Hope you survived the holiday with some laughter and knitting or crocheting. No Thanksgiving bloat allowed - it's time to check out some cool bags...an accessory needed by the smart knitter or crocheter on the move.
I'm blogging early - couldn't wait for Monday to share info on the Eco-Friendly Raw Bags. These adorable bags are made from recycled material such as newspaper, bamboo, and matchsticks. Click here for info on where to buy.
Scout's Swag also has the fabulous Zumba bag, Cali Bags, Haiku, and more. Check out the new

OH SNAP! YOU GO KNITTING FASHIONISTA DIVAS! You look fabulous :)

Knit-Share-Go!

Marg (going to work off som extra pumpkin pie)


Tuesday, November 25, 2008

HOLIDAY COUNTDOWN!

WHEREVER YOU ARE, WHATEVER YOU'RE DOING, BE GRATEFUL THIS THANKSGIVING AND REMEMBER TO KNIT-SHARE-GO!

Visit Monday for some cool new knitting accessories, 'cause you know a knitter's gotta have'em.

I am grateful for you,

Marg (taking a much needed break for the holiday)

Monday, November 24, 2008

IT'S SNOWING ELVES AND FREE PATTERNS!

It's almost turkey time for us here in the U.S. and it's time to start working on fun, quick and adorable projects for the holidays. Here are a few kind people who have offered up just what we need - FREE ADORABLE PATTERNS!

You will want to start your search for fun stuff at
Polar Knits. They offer new Christmas patterns. Now, if that's too intense for you, they do offer additional patterns that are great any time. Check it!

Visit Lion Brand for free holiday patterns, and projects everyone on your gift list. Listen to their podcast for ideas. Check, double check!

Stop by CraftStylish, my crrrrafty ones, for great ideas and patterns for decorating and gift giving. Check, triple check!

That's all for now crafties, Do visit the blog (Sat) regarding Knots-of-Love.org and helping them get on Ellen ;) Spread the word , spread the awareness!

Marg (wishing she had a few elves right about now to help out)

VISIT Margknittinaround on Etsy for great prices, patterns, and kits!

Saturday, November 22, 2008

KNITTING, CROCHETING AND ELLEN, OH MY!


This update is for all you knitters and knotters out there who want to make a difference by getting the word out about chemo caps, and the incredible job that Knots-of-Love.org has been doing. The founder of this amazing org, Christine Shively has a chance to be on Ellen to talk about this amazing effort to organize the knitting and crochet community to make caps for cancer patients in need. Do visit the website to see the incredible work that is being done KNOTS-OF-LOVE.ORG, if you haven't already. To hear Christine talk about the group's efforts, you can also click on The Odd Mind interview on the right of this page. Christine was nice enough to support me by calling in during my interview.

I have blogged many times about this org and have included it on
knit1fortheroad.com as a reliable charity organization for my readers. Her org will also be included in my next book, yes, that's right folks, the road trip continues!

So join in this effort to spread the word about this huge community effort to raise awareness and get our gal and her org on Ellen by clicking on the link below and submitting a brief message to the mighty fine folks at Ellen - afterall, who doesn't like to dance?

It's EASY. Here's what you do:

1) Follow this link to the "Be A Part of the Show - The Ellen DeGeneres Show"
http://ellen.warnerbros.com/show/respond/?PlugID=10

2) In the section below, give your story about your personal connection to Knots-of- Love and/or how much you would like it to be exposed to a broader audience. Nothing fancy, just a little of your Love!

3) Click the SEND button and you are done.


Thanks ya'll - you're the best readers a blogger could imagine!

Back to your regularly scheduled Saturday!

Marg (who is grateful)
ps...do pass this info on to your friends, family and readers - it will mean so much to those in need.

Friday, November 21, 2008

GATHER 'ROUND KNITTIES AND KNOTTIES

2009 is just around the corner!

Gather round knitties and knotties for some events that are coming in 2009 and hopefully, near you. Your knitting and crocheting knowledge can grow by leaps and bounds by attending, meeting, and networking with all the hardworking people involved in these events. You will come away with so much inspiration, and yes, maybe more yarn for the stash, but participating can really give your projects that extra zing! I encourage you to make the trek, leave the kids with hubby or loving grandma and hit the road with fellow knitties. Check with your neighborhood yarn store to see if they are going or a group of you can carpool together - GREAT community, great for the environment and the wallet, afterall, you're going to need some extra cookies for that special yarnie item that you can't walk away from.


I will be posting more events in the future and if there is one near you that I haven't mentioned, please comment or email me and I will include it. Your knitty neighbors, who may not be aware, will HRT you big time.



FIRST THERE WAS THE TWILIGHT ZONE, THEN THE PADGENT ZONE, BRACE YOURSELF FOR THE KNIT/CROCHET ZONE!

Some more news for you - I loved being interviewed by Christine of CrochetCafe last month so I have decided to give it a whirl. I will be doing a few intereviews on this blog that I think will inspire and motivate you as well as give you a sneak peek into the life of the Knitted. Stay tuned for the first installment of the Knit/Crochet Zone.


Mark your calendars for an event near you in 2009!

Knit Out Crochet 2009 is coming to the Mall of America in Feb. 2009, Bloomington MN and sponsored by the Craft Yarn Council of America.

Stitches West Feb 2009, Santa Clara, CA sponsored by the might fine folks at Knitting Universe.


Stitches South, April 2009, Atlanta, GA


Stitches Midwest, Sept 2009, Shaumburg, IL


Knitters Connection 2009 June 2009, Columbus OH, sponsored by Knitters Mercantile


2009 SPRING KNIT & CROCHET SHOW TKGA & CGOA Conferences, Plus TKGA Special Annual Events May 15-17, 2009 (Fri., Sat., Sun.) May 14 Education Begins Doubletree Hotel Portland Portland OR

AND


2009 SUMMER KNIT & CROCHET SHOW CGOA & TKGA Conferences, Plus CGOA Chain Link Special Annual Events August 7-9, 2009 (Fri., Sat., Sun.) August 5 Professional Development Day August 6 Education Begins Buffalo Niagrara Convention Center Buffalo , NY

KNIT-SHARE-GO AND ENJOY THE JOURNEY...Marg enjoying a snow day with the crazy yorkies who don't know when to come inside.


Thursday, November 20, 2008

RAMPANT RANDOM KNITTING

That's right folks, it's rampant, random and perfectly legal. Shake things up with these lovely wooden cubes that will help you break through knitters block. (no pun intended) These lovelies are yet another StitchesEast goodie from the fine folks at TheFineNeedle. As of this writing, I did not see them on their site. Their notions section is coming soon, but the link will give you there contact info. I have also not seen these anywhere else.

Here's how we roll - shake, blow, toss and lady luck will create for you a random pattern - k1, p5 - or p2k1 - who knows your knitting fate? I feel lucky! Com'on Molly needs a new pair of booties....and as if that weren't enough - you can also use it as a rowcounter. Is that cool or what?! and if you aren't getting my gambling humor you need to come out of the knitting cave more often.

If you like living fast and loose, large, and fat then do go for these goodies...

Knit-Share-Go!

Marg (aka high roller knitter at large!)

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

KISS ME, I'M ECO...

YOU DON'T HAVE TO BE IRISH TO GO GREEN....


Red Heart Eco-Cotton (75% recycled cotton)



Chemo caps for Adult Male

While I was at StitchesEast, I visited with the RedHeart Folks who were eager to answer all my questions and show me their new eco-friendly cotton

and blend that they now have. They also had really cool free patterns (always a treat!)


I made chemo caps with the cotton. It was easy to knit/crochet with and less bulky than other cottons. Do check the guidelines of the organization you are making caps for to make sure it will be accepted.


It's also a wonderful weight for other projects as well. Sturdy, durable, yet has flexibility, and soft. Great for kid projects, don't you think?


I purchased mine from Herrschners, but it's always good to shop around or visit your local yarn shop.


Knit-Crochet-Share-Go!


Marg (watching Max watching Molly to find out why he's barking at the FedX dude???-must be a Yorkie thing)

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

ANNIE GET YOUR KNIT


Keychain by Annie Adams
Visit the site for true color of item (silver) and description.
This is one of the latest from Annie Adams that I picked up at StitchesEast. It was one of those - must have buys for me. It makes a super gift for yourself or for anyone in your life who knits. It's lightweight but chunky at the same time. I left it in the package to take a pic for you - after this blog, I'm ripping it open and putting my keys and maybe a few decorative stitch markers on it and voila - presto -abrakadabra, and maybe a shazaam! you're ready to show your knit luv to the world.


Ok, knit me down a bit - I'm way to excited about this gem.


KAL is still on through the holiday season and I will be announcing another one in January after the madness of the holiday is over and we're all working off the bloats. So do knit or crochet for Scarves from the Heart or the earlier KAL Knots-of-Love. Your handywork and creativity is always welcome. Send pics to knit1fortheroad@gmail.com if you like, and I will post them in the reader gallery on Knit1fortheroad.com and share the love. I've been adding new links and videos often so do take advantage of the knitting roadside assistance.

Thanks to all of you who have bought Knit 1 for the Road (book), patterns and kits. I seriously HRT you and hope they give you many happy knitting hours. The road trip continues...


Knit-Share-Go! VRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRM


Marg (Java time!)


Monday, November 17, 2008

SATCHELS AND SNOWFLAKES ON THE NOSE!

The Ravenna Satchel from Marta McCall at Tinkknit.com

Over the weekend, I was looking over my info from the StitchesEast event and I came across a info on patterns from Marta McCall and found a site to get your creative juices going on a Monday called Tink knit.com. I especially love the bag patterns (of course - you know this by now if you've ever checked out my blog) but there are plenty of really wonderful patterns and accessories for you to drool over - no worries. This site will definitely inspire you. More later on Stitches as I plow through my material...you're getting it as my brain processes it.

Stay tuned for more events coming this winter, more Stitches stuff, and a whole lot more!

Do you Twitter? Keep up with Knit 1 for the Road on Twitter.com.
Need some cool kits, patterns or Knit 1 for the Road for a really great price? Check out margknittinaround on Etsy and get your knit on!
Looking for fun knitting/crochet links, info and videos. Do check out knit1fortheroad.com for knitting roadside assistance.

KNIT-SHARE-GO!

Marg (watching Molly lick the snowflakes on her nose from my kitchen window)

Friday, November 14, 2008

BEAUTIFUL THINGS COME FROM ANTHROPOLOGIE




The new Anthropologie catalog is out and I found a goodie called Pickstitched change purses. These are nice not only for carrying around change, but a small ipod, knitting goodies and their stylish at the same time. There are also lots of other great choices for you.

You can also visit Etsy for more choices of handmade change purses and goodies. Type in change purse or clutch and check out the different shops. Easy or what? and you're supporting the small handmade folks like me! There are also patterns if you're crafty so that you can create your own. (heehee a total plug for margknittinaround which is my shop)


Marg sporting a modified scarf I just finished with Vegas from SWTC. Visit my Flckr account or Ravelry project page if you are on Ravelry (margknittinaround) for closeup pics that show the fringe and more info about the pattern from VickieHowell Collection.

Next time, I am going to share the info and goodies from StitchesEast. I know, I promised to do so earlier in the week but life got in the way a little and I want to do the event justice so I'm working on it over the weekend so you get full effect!


Update on Max, my yorkie - he encountered the neighbors' puppy, now almost full grown and a pitbull dog, yesterday. Bella, the pit bull, always playful before, but leashed, came flying out of her yard, across the street and on our heels in about two secs. I'm sure my dogs probably look like rabbits to her. All I heard was the neighbor yelling her name and a growl behind us. Thankfully I had the sense to use halters for the yorkies, and I snatched them up pretty darn quick just in case and kept movin', before Max started his alpha dog BACK AT A YA bs. The neighbor caught up with his dog pdq and had to carry her away. Now - this could have ended badly for Max since he's only 5 lbs. Please remember to keep your dog on a leash or harnessed (if small guys) and be mindful of dogs coming up from behind...Molly was once grabbed by a hunting dog from behind while we were walking and got picked up and shaken. You can't really fault the dogs for doing what comes naturally, but as the dog owner, you need to be aware of the risks of incompatability amoung dogs. Embrace nature, nurture, and never take chances with babies, pets, and remember in life - and the dog park, not everyone wants to be your new bff.
Put your stix together or grab a hook for a little knitting or crochet this weekend to soothe your nerves and thanks for coming by :)

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