SHOP AHOY!!! THERE BE YARN AHEAD...

What a way to start the day - my Vickie Howell Farmer's Market Bag kit (and kaboodle) arrived in the mail before 10:00! The kaboodle part was awesome too! Jam packed with goodies for her knitsters....Visit Vickie Howell's shop on Etsy if you're interested. They're flyin' outta' there like hot cakes.
There are also a lot of gifts featured for Mother's Day on the Etsy that you will love, so check it.

Making preparations for the big treck to the Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival for a glorious day of food, fun, demos, yarn, info and a visit to see the Ravelry folks that will be participating. I just love being a yarnie :) I'll have all the juicy details when I return.

Finished a modified lemon drop scarf last night for a gift. I made it into a shortened neck scarf by only y/o twice on the 11th row. I ended up with 7 green color blocks and 6 white seed stich color blocks in between. Now, I have to make one for the trip!

Tip for Today - Learn to be a problem solver - my friend loved the scarf I had, but needed something shorter...Don't be afraid to modify the color or design of your patterns to get a different look, it's all about being you and being creative. Have fun with your knitting/crocheting.

That's all for now...Knit-Share-Go!

Marg

Twitter, Blogging, Yarnie Heaven

Happy Tuesday fellow knitsters, yarnies, crafties and friends!
I'm still without my rockin' laptop - my cover has I Knit Therefore I Rock sticker across it which puts me in automatic blogging mode...but I'm hangin' in there.

NEW STUFF...

I'm on

Twitter now as knit1fortheroad. Follow along for updates, contests coming soon to win free goodies...if you're on Twitter, come on by and say hi! The Twitter posts are on Facebook, My Space, and Blogger.com as well.

Jennifer Perkins of

Naughty Secretary Club has just written her first book, The Naughty Secretary Club: The Working Girls Guide to Handmade Jewelry. I'm so thrilled for her...visit her site for all of the juicy details and be sure and check out her fabulous jewelry. Jen will also have jewelry featured in Knit 1 for the Road. ;)

To celebrate my final edit in fierce yarnie fashion by visiting my local yarn store,

Knit One and purchased "this just in" 3 skeins of Noro in varying green & blue colorways. When asked by fellow yarnie what I intended to make I replied that it didn't matter - i just wanted to squeeze it and look at the vibrant color! I acutally started knitting in the car on the way home (Dave was driving of course!) Talk about Yarnie Heaven!!!

So my wish for all of you is that you treat yourself to a little Yarnie Heaven (whatever it is for you) this week and be kind to yourself.

Marg

Eco-Yarnie Sites

I want to share with you two incredible sites that I visit often that are eco-friendly to yarnies.

Ecobutterfly.com

South West Trading Company

You'll gain insight on the fibers that are now available as well as info on how the products are made (including dyes) and new blogs to visit. Very worthwhile visiting. ;)

Stopped by Knit One today and I'm happy to report that more caps have come in - keep'em comin' and big hugs to everyone who has emailed and sent caps in.

For you Knitty Gritty fans & knitsters (like me)- the new CRL podcasts are coming in May - check Vickie Howell for updates.

Knit 1 for the Road is well on it's way - I am sending the final edits in tomorrow. More info soon! Check for updates here or go to Knit1fortheroad.com, the official site for the book. The site is a work in progress and there will be more exciting news soon - free goodies - and more!

KAWABUNGA DUDES & DUDETTES!

Have a wonderful week!
Marg

Knitter's/Crocheters You Are Amazing!

Hi Crafty Readers and Friends,

Well, I still have problems with my computer and it's been sent to who knows where for repair but I am still in the blogging game - heehee - for now, anyway.

I want to tell you how one woman's charitable action has reached it's way all over the world. The chemo caps that Knit One, in Pittsburgh, are making were inspired by one knitter in one of their groups. She started knitting chemo caps for a doctor's office in the area who treated cancer patients...it caught on within the group and soon the mighty courageous ladies at Knit One established the goal of 1,000 caps.

Now, this is wonderful in itself but with the internet, word has spread. I have rec'd emails from many of you inspired by Knit One and want to contribute or start your own groups -not only in the US but in other countries, as well. I am really inspired by all of you and am sure I'm not the only one blogging about this subject so if you haven't joined in - raise your needles for a charitable cause! Get Inspired and make your needles and heart sing along! ;)

Marg

Still posting...

Hi Everyone!

For new daily posts this week, please visit www.myspace.com/astraea58 or http://www.xanga.com/margknittinaround

I am having computer problems this week :( and borrowing one when I can. I will have the posts up and running on blogger.com ASAP.
Sorry for the inconvenience. Marg

Knitting on the Roller Coaster of Life

Today, while I was waiting to jump on the computer ( mine's having a serious sick day) I started thinking about how giving/receiving/and watching this process actually raises your seratonin levels.

Knitter/Crocheters have been aware of this or should be every time they knit or crochet an item for someone in need. We become more aware of the pain or suffering of others and become grateful for the life and love that we enjoy.

I often think of those crafty & wise men and women who came before us knitting socks for the soldiers during the war in England.

This is just another reason to find time to knit/crochet - as if we needed one!!! I also feel that the process of knitting/crocheting puts you in a meditative state and that each stitch offers healing to our mind and bodies.

You might want to read Wayne Dyer's book Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Life or Living the Wisdom of the Tao if this subject interests you.

Happy Earth Day Everyone! Enjoy your planet - Marg

KNITTING COMMUNITY IS CRUCIAL...

Get your Knit Fix

Finding a comfortable knitting community is crucial to your development as a knitter and a person! For new knitters, it's a place where they can go for guidance and encouragement. A sense of community is needed by all of us as knitters and humans. So much of the time we are isolated and depend on our computers, that it's refreshing to share with others in a safe environment. I urge you to seek out knitting and/or crochet groups in your area.

Yesterday, I spent some time with the ladies at

Knit One who were very welcoming. I learned so much just being there and I came away with that warm fuzzy feeling, pleased and lucky to know this little bit of knitting heaven exists in a fairly large city...and I plan to visit as often as I can.

I encourage you to log off (after reading my blog of course -heehee) and look for the group that where you can thrive in your town or city.
Marg

Visit me at these sites and say hi!

FaceBook.com
Shine (new online for women)
Xanga.com (margknittinaround)
Ravelry.com(margknittinaround)

Knit for the Cure Update

Knit One Needs Your Help Current


mood: peaceful

Adult Chemo Cap made with Knit Picks Shine Worsted Cotton/Modal
Hello my crafty ones...a quick reminder that if you can knit or crochet a hat for the Cure, it would be greatly appreciated. I'll will be visiting Knit One this Sunday to knit along with the gang and will give you an update next week. Thanks to all of you who emailed this week and volunteered your valuable time to knit/crochet caps. My friends are the best!

Go to Knit One for details.

I will also have more updates on Knit 1 for the Road for you as well...

Knit - Share - Go!

Marg

Tune In - Stay Motivated - Multi-Task Today

Today, I'm catching up on some of my favorite podcasts. CRL with Vickie Howell, Lion Brand and Knit Picks, and last but not least The Crafty Chica. (who is, by the way an awesome writer and storyteller). I encourage the new crafters and knitters to go to iTunes or visit your favorite knitting/crafting sites to see if they have podcasts. Many do - and you will find the ones that make your heart sing! Usually there will be a button on their site to take you directly to the podcast or you can download onto your computer or ipod. I find this a great way to keep in touch with the latest products, tips and trends while I'm doing other things. So tune in - stay motivated and multi-task today ;)

Marg

Spring into Gratitude

It's Spring - time to enjoy life - take stock in our progress so far this year - and be grateful for the newness of spring...

To celebrate, I decided to make this cell phone cover to replace the well worn cover from the year before. It was also a chance to use up some left over yarn - part of my recycle/reuse challenge. I used a basic pattern last year from http://http//www.lionbrand.com/patterns/ and improvised this one a little. If you're new to knitting you will find this an easy, quick project - and following the basic pattern the first time (and checking your gauge) will be less frustrating.

However, if you're a wizard of knitting, than you are already thinking of ways to embellish - you'll already have the basic pattern in your head and you are definitely encouraged to improvise. ;)

Now for some GRATITUDE! and I'm writing that with ATTITUDE! I really appreciate all of my online friends that I have made over time. You inspire me daily with your emails, witty qips, and endless support...especially this year with all the new challenges. You make my life so rich and I'm glad that you found your way to margknittinaround and knit1fortheroad blogs...and even read a post or two - heehee. I enjoy visiting your sites as well, and am amazed by what you are all accomplishing.

Take care my friends,

Marg

Magic Needles at Knit One in the Burgh! Marg's Pick of the Week

I'm thrilled about this week’s Pick - Knit One in Pittsburgh PA. This shop has a wonderful sense of community and a fabulous store! Knitters and crocheters alike are always welcome. They have a variety of classes, groups and events - something for everyone! Their founder is actually a Therapist – Dr Stacy http://knitonethreads.blogspot.com/ they definitely take time for a little knitting therapy (and we love that!)

Their group of magic needles have been steadily making chemo caps and will be distributing them at the Gazebo at the Race for the Cure in Pittsburgh, in May (Mother's Day). Their goal is to make 1000 caps (you read that correctly!) and your skills are needed! Tick Tock...get those needles movin'. There is also a free adorable pattern on their site. Go to

http://www.knitone.biz./index.html and click on chemo caps at the bottom of the home page for more information and a free pattern!

Click your needles together for Flo Dowling and Stacy and all the Knit One gang of knitters and crocheters for their contribution to the community.

I made some caps with 2 needles (which I really love) pictured above.

Go to DIY.com, Knitty Gritty Episode Knitting for Charity DKNG-402 if you like to knit hats with 2 needles only.

http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/shows_dkng/episode/0,2046,DIY_18180_43398,00.html

For my crochet friends: Visit http://http://www.bevscountrycottage.com/beanies-crochet2.html for some fierce chemo cap patterns.

I'll be posting updates on their progress - keep your avatars & needles tuned to this blog!

I hope you’ll join in and be a part of the community! You don’t have to be in the 'Burgh to participate. Marg ;)

SPACE, PLACE FIND ALL YOUR PATTERNS

It's Spring and time to enjoy the soft breeze, sunshine, and flowers (if you're lucky enough to live where it's warm)...it's also a great time to organize your stash, rethink patterns, and save the patterns that you can't part with in one (yes- i said one) place so you can find them quickly.

I accumulated so many patterns that it was getting out of hand...so here's what I've done for several years - and it seems to work for me - hopefully it will for you.

First, I weed through old patterns to make sure they are keepers - then I send them to recycle. If you have or can get a big binder with pocket type dividers that would be great - you can also use what you have on hand. I put headings on the different sections like: afghans, mittens, hats, scarves, etc and place the patterns in the pockets. I also have another where I just keep photos from knitting magazines (use a 3 hole punch) and place them in a notebook.

Next, when I'm watching tv, I grab a book & flip through it to get rid of things I no longer, want or need.

Then when I receive new knitting mag issues, the older one automatically get torn apart and the patterns & info go in the notebook - the rest goes to recycle. I find it helpful to save the covers (they're usually so yummy - & the reason I bought or subscribe anyway!) This helps keep track of where the group of patterns came from.

Occasionally, I donate the whole magazine to the library, as well.

So to simplfy:

Read
Tear
Save
Recycle/Donate
Knit - Share - Go!

Enjoy finding your patterns! Marg

Boys can knit too!

Woohoo! It's Friday!

I had a conversation with a mother in the neighborhood while walking the dogs and I mentioned knitting (since knitting thoughts are always in my brain) and she mentioned that her sons' school had taught her youngest son how to knit. My ears perked up immediately and I was thrilled to hear that boys were included in this activity. She said she "caught" him knitting at home - I thought that was weird - so I pressed on for more info. She was horrified because she thought there might be gender issues! I thought - oh good grief - get over it! Knitting teaches us all how to count, concentrate and work through problems - hello, like math! I had to set this situation straight, so I mentioned this to her and left her with some thinking to do.

In some cultures knitting and crocheting are perfectly acceptable for males - fishing nets were originally made by male fishermen. Boys are excellent knitters and catch on quickly. If you come across an anxious mother who's child is knitting or crocheting in school - you might want to pass along kudos (and a little info) from the heart of course 'cause Knitters are nice!

So with that topic being covered - have a great weekend and don't forget to

knit - share - go! Marg

IT'S ALL IN THE WEIGHT

Today's post is not what you're thinking! It's all about the weight of yarn and the Standard Weight System that knitters (and crocheters) use as a guideline and it has the most commonly used gauges ,needle or hook sizes. I get emails regarding what yarns are best to use for certain projects, especially with beginning knitters, so I thought this post topic would be helpful.

A great site to visit-especially if you are new to knitting/crocheting or just need a refresher course - is http://www.yarnstandards.com/ . On the left hand side of the homepage you will see Yarn Weight System. This site also contains some great information for you and can be added to your favorites for quick access.

So, there will be no revealing of weight here, people...not mine anyway!

Marg

Glitter Goddess Craftiness

Wednesday, April 09, 2008

This post is dedicated to the amazing glitter goddesses who went down to the Ellen Show for their "Glitter is not Litter" rally. I can’t do this story justice so I’m sending you over to Crafty Chica's Blog http://www.myspace.com/craftychica in case you have not heard about the rally.

Crafters can make a difference! Be proud of your craft and be amazing goddesses in your own favorite crafts.

I’m off to create a little crafty magic myself...and I hope you will too!

Marg

A Knitters' Color Theory Adventure

Sometimes people email me regarding how to pick colors that will go together in their knitting projects. My tip... is to try and pick different colors but they will be in the same tonal value or range and you could vary your texture for variety.

If you are knitting socks, you probably want the same texture throughout, especially if you are a newbie to knitting.

I have a link to Knit Picks for you today that may be helpful to you if you are struggling with this issue. It includes a tutorial and info on color theory for the knitter.

http://www.knitpicks.com/content/index.php/archive/color-theory/

Knitty also has a wonderful article as well.

http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEsummer06/FEATtechnicolor.html

We all get color "block" from time to time and need a review. I hope this helps you get back on track and take some of the frustration out of the process.

Enjoy your knitting!

Marg

SURFING THE BLOGS? SURF THIS!

KAWABUNGA DUDES AND DUDETTES!

The official site for my new book http://www.knit1fortheroad.com is now up and running with more exciting updates to come. I will also be updating all of my other sites, as well. The book site is evolving and will give you the scoop on upcoming contests for cool stuff and more announcements!

Also, for all you folks visiting this site...if you have a comment, want to say hi, or if there is anything you'd like to see on this site, let me know.

Stay tuned...ok back to your needles and blog surfing everyone ;)

Marg

COLOR IS KEY

Hope everyone had beautiful spring weather this weekend. I was lucky enough to take a visit to the Pittsburgh Art Museum and the Phipps Conservatory which had beautiful displays of flowers and plants. I was really inspired by all the color and texture everywhere and have new ideas for new patterns swirling around in my head today. I'm trying to write some things down in my knitting notebook so that I don't forget. I've included a notebook in this post that came from http://www.cafepress.com/.

You can also use a plain notebook and decorate your own, my crafty ones. I keep thoughts, knitting sketches, ideas and pictures of clothing that inspire me. It's another way to stay motivated and really becomes a map of my journey as a knitter and a person. Walk outside, go to a museum if you're close to one, or the local library and grab an art book that you're drawn to and get inspired...

Your knitting color choices & textures will grow with you!

The other awesomely amazing knit worthy activity that I did was read my issue of knit.1 http://http://www.knit1mag.com/which arrived Friday. It's the Spring/Summer Eco Issue (the green issue) so grab it and read about all the wonderful alternatives for knitters to stay as green as possible. Vickie Howell has an interview with Adrienne Armstrong (eco-activist) with great tips and information.

Well, I'm off and running this sunny Monday and I hope these ideas help keep you motivated this week.

GO GREEN! KNIT-SHARE-GO... Marg

You can also find me at these sites - stop by and say hi!

http://www.xanga.com/margknittinaround

http://www.myspace.com/astraea58 (MargKnittin'ARound)

http://www.ravelry.com/people/MargKnittinARound

if you aren't on ravelry.com yet, be sure and sign up for an invite! it's a great community for knitters, crocheters, designers, artists that hand dye and spinners.

Weekend Blastoff!

GoKnit Pouches from http://www.knowknits.com/ ;)

Gather 'round all knitters/crocheters, especially the newbies, I have a way to keep your small projects for knitting/crocheting & stuff together, and handy, for when you dash out the door.
If you're on a budget, like most of us (mostly because you may have overspent on the yarn stash - teehee) there are awesome bags & totes that you can find at the thriftstore or dollar stores in your area.

For the fashionistas out there - there are many totes that are fashion forward & designed especially to carry your projects in - you can find them in the craft stores & in your fav knitting/crocheting magazines as well as online. (See GoKnit Pouches above) I love both types and use them daily.

My favorite one for summer is a striped straw tote that came from the fabulous 99 cent store in Ventura, CA. Keep your tote/bag filled with everything you need for your on the go project (and near the door) so that every time you head out, you will see it...my book , Knit 1 for the Road will have just the portable knitting projects you're looking for!!! ;)

Spring brings new ideas, organized stashes, and a long to do list for most of us...so dig, in and don’t forget to knit and/or crochet!

Marg

The more you "enjoy," the richer you become.
Anything, and in every way.
Eureka! The Universe
http://www.tut.com/

STASHORAMA TIP & UPDATE

Stash those extra goodies in baskets so their sittin' pretty. You can enjoy them while you're waiting for just the right project to inspire you. ;)

KNIT 1 FOR THE ROAD

THIS JUST IN!!!

Current mood: blissful
Category: Writing and Poetry


Knit 1 for the Road will be hot off the presses this spring/summer on Amazon.com - more sites and info will be available and posted as well as a chance to win fierce promotional items. Keep your kool knitting detectors on!

Knit 1 for the Road was created especially for the busy knitter on the go! Fun, easy patterns with pizazzzzzzzzzz! Portable AND stylish.
You will also get tons of sources, and inspiration to keep you motivated with your knitting projects. Also, drop by http://www.knitonefortheroad.com/ which is my new book site. It's still a work in progress so wear your hard hat! ;)

Plus

Two indie artists will be featured...

Jennifer Perkins, NaughtySecretaryClub

http://www.naughtysecretaryclub.com/

AND

Rachel-Marie of KnittyDirtyGirl

http://www.knittydirtygirl.com/

KAPOW!!!

(triple girl power!)

SOOOO... if you're a knitter, know a knitter, or hope to be a knitter, you will love this book. It makes a fun gift for you AND your knitting friends!

Marg

GO NEEDLE POWER!!!

GO NEEDLE POWER

Current mood: blissful

Category: Goals, Plans, Hopes

Stop by and say hi - or just click your needles together so I know you’re out there - Wow! Did I just hear clicking knitting needles or have I been online too long today. My wish is that I can brighten your day and inspire you.

In the inspiration department... there is still a need for knitted and crocheted items for charity. I’m liking

Warm Up America, http://www.warmupamerica.com/home.html

Afghans for Afghans, http://www.afghansforafghans.org/

and

Mother Bear Project http://www.motherbearproject.org/

They all have a great track record for getting your items to their destination. Check out your local charities and knitting/crochet groups, too. There’s power in numbers! GO NEEDLE POWER!!!

Remember, you have the power to change the world in your crafty little hands. Knit - Share - Go!!! Marg

The Cali Collection - A Must See!!!

Current mood: animated

Category: Fashion, Style, Shopping

I have to share this with all my fashionista knitters & crocheters alike...please, no drooling. The Cali Collection http://www.namasteinc.com Enjoy!

Marg's Pick - Festive Fiber Fest Scarf Kit

Today I'd like to share with you this fanciful scarf for spring. It's called The Festive Fiber Fest Scarf and it comes with all the material you need. You can get the kit from http://www.KnitOneCrochetToo.com and it comes in several colors. Easy & quick to knit (we likie!) and a little departure from the winter yarns most of us have been using lately. It's light weight, full of texture and rich in color - worth the price of admission folks! This is definitely a winner. You may now return to your regularly scheduled knitting! Marg ;)

My life has been a tapestry of rich and royal hue, An everlasting vision of the ever-changing view.

- Carole King

Welcome Friends, Knitters, Crafters & Aritists!

Hi fellow knitsters & friends!


I'm Marg, and this space is a safe place for anyone interested in knitting, crocheting, crafting, fashion and anything else you can imagine! I want this to be a very positive place for you to visit often.


Knit 1 for the Road is my new portable knitting book for the knitter on the go! The book is filled with fun, easy projects that will look fabulous when finished. I also give you excellent resources and tips to stay motivated with your projects. You can visit me on Ravelry.com http://www.ravelry.com (margknittinaround), Xanga.com (margknittinaround) and My Space at http://www.myspace.com/astraea58(MargKnittin'ARound).




I'm a work in progress as you can see...stay tuned for more!


Knit, Share, Go!

Marg

Thoughts become things. Choose the good ones!
TUT.com