Click Those Needles together for a few announcements!

I've been steadily working on some summer patterns for my new Etsy shop MargKnittinAround - opening soon - as well as my new book kit! (more later).

I'll also be having another fabulous giveaway next week so please stay tuned to this blog for the scoop! You won't want to miss out on this one...

Back to your usual knitting, crocheting, and backyard bbq!

Marg

Enjoy the magic of knitting, fun, fast projects!

Now on Amazon!

The WHY of Knit 1 for the Road

There is a back story and a starting place for every project...

What inspired me to write Knit 1 for the Road? You - my fellow knitters and crocheters! I started knitting and crocheting when it wasn't so "cool"and it was usually a solitary time - after work and while watching tv. Years later, after joining a crochet group in Ventura around 2000 my world exploded - we all new each other from dancing on Friday nights and we also crocheted or knitted every Wed. On the weekends, a group of us would hike, go to concerts, dance, meet for lunch and have our projects with us. I grew to love this time and learned so much from my fellow knitters and crocheters. We also worked on charity projects in between personal projects. This really appealed to me. I cherish that time in my life. Knitting, for me, has always been a constant friend and has sustained me through bad times as well as happy.

Knit 1 for the Road is my tribute to all my fellow knitters and was created to inspire (especially new knitters) to learn as much as they can, how to go about it and how to stay motivated...the intermediate knitters will find patterns that they can knit on the move and will inspire them to embellish and use finishing techniques they love, as well as adapt their favorite yarn to each project.

It is also a tribute to my sister, Lea, who put the first knitting needles in my hands and taught me the magic of knitting...I am forever grateful to her for spending the time to teach me.
I am not a celebrity or an expert - I am learning every day on my knitting journey, just like most of us, but I am happy to share my knowledge of many years of knitting and learning from some fabulous knitters along the way.

Knit-Share-Go!

Marg

Get the Scoop Here! KnittyDirtyGirl Featured in Knit 1 for the Road

Rachel-Marie of Knittydirtygirl

Her gorgeous Strawberry Fields yarn in Babies, Bobbles and More! pattern.

A short description for you of what Knit 1 for the Road is about...

Knitters unite in Knit 1 for the Road by Margaret Nock, a portable guide to knitting on the fly. With flare and fashion, this guide is a limitless fountain of fun for beginning and intermediate knitters of all ages. Projects range from men and women's scarves to bags, baubles, and belts, this manual provides patterns, awesome resources and tips. All patterns use US size eight knitting needles and eco-friendly yarn—the challenge is simply to enjoy the art and hobby of knitting. Knit-Share-Go!

Knit 1 for the Road now on Amazon

SMALL KNITTING THING-A-LING

It's the small things in life that touch us the most... here is one of those things I hope you will enjoy.

Do you ever have, a friendly pet or child trying to share in your knitting experience, or perhaps you knit on the move and need to keep yarn handy and clean? I came across MindYourKnitting's polka dot beanie bags and knotebooks. You can also purchase them in a matched set which includes an accessory pouch- how cool is that!?! The thing that inspires me most about their products is that like all things fabulous - they were invented from a knitters necessity - knitters point of view...and we LUV knitter friendly items. The beanie bags are weighted to keep everything secure and clean. They are cute, festive, come in a variety of colors and a great summer addition to your knitting accesories. DO check them out ;)
Thanks for the emails of support - I really appreciate your kindness...and I hope you'll add Knit 1 for the Road to your summer reading list and keep it in your fabulous portable knitting bag!
Marg

Knit 1 for the Road now on Amazon.com Ya'll! It's the perfect addition to your knitting must-have's collection...portable, fun, with tips, awesome resources and patterns for everyone!
Follow knit1fortheroad on Twitter! A great way to make new friends and follow them along.

SUMMER KNITTING FUN!

Summer is the time for fun, light weight yarn and patterns. Consider using 100% eco-friendly yarn for your projects. It's not just in pastel colors anymore, folks, there's a whole array of color in the cotton yarn spectrum.
I like using Peaches & Creme, any of the KnitPicks cotton yarns, as well as the Southwest Trading Company cotton yarns. You can also visit your local yarn shop and discover the joys of cotton in person!
Cotton is a wonderful fiber if you are knitting or crocheting chemo caps as well as purses, scarves and backpacks.
You will also need to be portable. Consider Knit 1 for the Road your portable knitting guide this summer! (heehee- I just had to put that self-promo in there) The patterns are adaptable to cotton yarn, fun, fast and then there's those amazing Marg tips and Awesome resources sections. ;)
I'm keeping it a bit short - work looms ahead!
Isn't it always that way after a hoopin' hollerin' holiday?
Knit-Share-Go!
Marg :)

Knit 1 for the Road your portable guide to knitting this summer!

COLOR GOES A LONG WAY IN KNITLAND!

If color has got you stumped, here's a couple of sites for you!

We all find color challenging from time to time, no matter what our backgrounds or our experience level. Sometimes you just have an attack of color block! What you need is a shot of inspiration to get you out of your color rut.
Try these sites to help you get back on track.

KissYourShadow (Color Striping Chart)

and

For the artist in you, check out

ColorChartReinvented for a little color appreciation! It shows the use of color through the decades.

Arrange your colors ahead of time to see which colors work before you begin a project. Color choice is just as important as pattern and yarn choices ... and keep a color wheel handy.
I often look for colors or color blended in nature but complimentary colors can be just as beautiful.

Hope you're having a great holiday! There will be another giveaway coming soon, as well as some new items to check out on Etsy in the next couple of weeks.
Thanks again for your emails, buying Knit 1 for the Road and for reading MargKnittinAround.

Knit-Share-Go!

KNIT 1 FOR THE ROAD ON AMAZON NOW!

Jam packed with fun, easy patterns to use and reuse - portable, perfect for the novice - help to build knitting skills and tension, as well as motivate intermediate knitters on the move. Learn tips and discover awesome resources to help you on your knitting journey.
A wonderful gift for you or the knitter in your life!

Never leave your knitting behind again.

Flickr

This is a test post from , a fancy photo sharing thing.

Knit 1 for the Road Sneaky Peek

SNEEKY PEAK OF KNIT 1 FOR THE ROAD JUST FOR YOU!

Knit 1 for the Road
By Margaret Nock

Knit quick, easy patterns anywhere and look fabulous
knitting them!

Ever go out without your knitting and realize you missed opportunities to do more knitting? Knit 1 for the Road is all about being portable & fun.

All patterns are knitted with US size 8 knitting needles, eco-friendly yarn, with room for notes, ideas for finishing and yarn substitution info. Take your knitting along with you easily. What are you waiting for?

Table of Contents
Intro
Dedication
What You Will Need
Projects
1. Felix Feltie
2. Wowza Wrist Warmers
3. The Man Scarf
4. The Woman Scarf
5. Babies, Bobbles and More!
6. Hottie Head Band
7. Around Town Bag
8. Got Specs?
9. Belts are Back!
10. Small Scarf–Big Attitude
Instructions
Glossary
Yarn Sources
Awesome Knitting Resources
Marg's Tips
Knitting for Charity
Your Notes

Knit, Share, Go!

Knit 1 for the Road available now on Amazon.com.

KNIT 1 FOR THE ROAD IS NOW AVAILABLE AT AMAZON.COM

much to my awe - amazon has put knit1fortheroad up early - so if you would like to order it now it is available - the wonders of publishing - they told me june - heehee. i havn't even gotten my button for the site yet! i will still be having another promotional giveaway so stay tuned!
marg

Amazon.com

EMOTIONAL BAGGAGE IS IN THE HOUSE!

Today it's time to visit Emotional Baggage and enjoy the shear creative joy that this shop brings to everyone who visits. You're going to want to put this shop in your top FAVS.

I just rec'd an origami necklace in the mail this week that is more beautiful than the picture and very well made.

You will discover Bags, Jewelry, Clothing and Fingerlass Gloves - very cool! Something for everyone on your gift list and for you! The prices are reasonable and you are getting a unique piece of art with every order. We likie!There is creativity and a sense of humor along with expert craftsmanship with every item. This shop is a must see etsy!

Let's all click our needles together for THE AMAZING TAMARA , the heart and soul of EMOTIONAL BAGGAGE.

Marg


Knit 1 for the Road coming to Amazon in June.

Follow knit1fortheroad along on Twitter!

UPDATE ON KNIT 1 FOR THE ROAD

Gettin' Your Knitting Blog On!

A few things to consider if you are just beginning your blogging journey...


Blogging can be fun and informative for both you and your readers...sharing what you know is a wonderful way to help fellow knitters/crocheters and crafters of all kinds.

I am always drawn to the fun sites that have a bit of sarcasm or sense of humor and fabulous graphics! Keepin' it real AND short also helps me because, like most of us, I'm definitely in a time crunch most of the time.


What do you look for in a blog site? Maybe take the qualities you like in a blog you read and add your own personal flare. Your blog will soon take on a life of it's own.

With the spring season comes a little sprucing up of your stash, your knitting patterns & books - why not your blog? Could it be you have something spectacular to add to the scene and didn't realize it because of your busy lifestyle?

Blogging often is also helpful if you want folks to come back and visit...even if you are sharing a video, blurb about something new you're excited about...a reader depends on you being there, and keeps the blog fresh in their minds. I always take note of the last time someone was online to blog or update.

Twitter has been helpful to me for updates throughout the day about what I am doing regarding blogs, Knit 1 for the Road, and cool stuff I stumble across. I'm not a texter, but you can also attach Twitter to your phone as well as your blog.

Tomorrow (Friday) you won't want to miss this blog! You're going to meet one of my fav etsy sellers - that's right -

EmotionalBaggage is in the house!

Put your needles together and your fingers on the keyboard til' then!

Marg




Knit 1 for the Road coming to Amazon in June 08!

Twitter along with knit1fortheroad for the latest scoop on all things margknittinaround!

IT'S WED & TIME FOR MARG'S PICKS!

Today it's going to be a mixed bag While I am a passionate knitter, I also LUV how to info and videos as well as fashion of any and every variety. So here are my favs and I hope that you like and enjoy these sites too!

Robins Egg

First off in the awesome yarn department - I just rec'd a shipment from Rachel-Marie of Knittydirtygirl of the most gorgeous variety! Soft, pure color - divine. Rachel-Marie, a new Mom and business woman extradinaire creates beautiful colorways that will inspire you to knit. Her Strawberry Fields is featured in the pattern Babies, Bobbles and More in my upcoming knitting book for knitters on the move - Knit 1 for the Road .
Strawberry Fields
Visit her on Etsy and Ravelry!

For crafty news and inspiration visit CraftStylish and CrafterCast, MixTapeZine ( I have an upcoming article inMixTapeZine and will post the issue as soon as I know ;))

For everything style check out StyleHive.

For great videos to teach you about a particular craft as well as other subjects, swing by MindBites.

I hope you put some of these sites on your Favs and visit them often...I'm going to write my wishlist~and catch a few crafting tips!

Marg
Ps...can't wait for the new Ghost Hunters episodes, Sex & the City movie and The Happening!

KNIT 1 FOR THE ROAD COMING TO AMAZON - STAY TUNED FOR UPDATES!
Follow knit1fortheroad Along on Twitter!

BACK TO THE KNITTING AT HAND...

Today I'd like to return to the land of knitting and cool knitting stuff.
If you love the beautiful scenery in films made in New Zealand, than you will be mad for Stephanie Quattrini's designs and kits. I was cruising through one of my favorite yarn sites, Yarn Market after seeing their add for one of Stephanies's Kits - gorgeous bag kit actually rated as skill level EASY in the August 08 issue of Knit 'N Style.

The colors, patterns and textures are very artistic and attainable by mere mortals like ourselves. I especially like the concept of her Freeform Bag Kit, which allows you to become the artist by the placement of embellishments and the use of both knitting and crochet. So many kits leave the creative side of your brain empty and your task oriented side overflowing...resulting in knitter burn out and lack of motivation to finish your project. Not so with Stephanie's kits. I hope you will take a moment away from your knitting/crocheting to visit her online for a breath of fresh New Zealand air - Breathe Deep Everyone as my friend Lyn is famous for saying!

Knit-Share-Go!
Marg

UPCOMING INFO!!!

Knit 1 for the Road (coming to Amazon)

MixTapeZine check out issue 4 which is out now!
I just got an article accepted in this hip & hapnin' craft zine and will post which issue as soon as I hear ;)

CRL season 2 is coming to a your ipods soon.

Check out the Hive! The place for fashion and style.

Do you Twitter? Follow knit1fortheroad on Twitter.

AND THE FAB 5 WINNA'S ARE!

Prize WINNER for 1rst Email is (drum role please) Stacy (Autumn Knitter) DeLong

Prize WINNER for 7th Email is Debra Collins


Prize WINNER for 13th Email is Liz McGlinchey


Prize WINNER for 21st Email is Cheryl (Knitting Mom) Perry

and

Prize WINNER for 25th Email is Eve (Tinkerbellforever)



PLEASE SEND MAILING ADDRESSES TO RECEIVE YOUR PROMOTIONAL ITEM TO http://www.knit1fortheroad.com/. All info will be confidential and not be kept.



THANKS FOR THE ASTOUNDING RESPONSE, EMAILS AND CONGRATS TO ALL THE WINNA'S.



THERE WILL BE ANOTHER CONTEST SOON SO STAY TUNED...for a chance to win.



KNIT-SHARE-GO! ;) Marg

KNIT 1 FOR THE ROAD coming soon to Amazon, BookSurge, Alibris, AbeBooks
FOLLOW KNIT 1 FOR THE ROAD ON TWITTER!

DO YOU TWITTER YET? COME JOIN THE FUN AND FOLLOW ALONG WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND FAVORITE CRAFTERS!

DOLLAR STORE FINDS FOR KNITTERS, CRAFTERS, BOOKSTERS ALIKE!

Current mood: giddy

It's Sunday and I'm blogging - just call me a blogaholic...but I wanted to share some adorable bags that I scarfed up from the local dollar store this afternoon. They are perfect for knitters, crafters, and booksters alike! Since I personally fit into all these catagories, I couldn't limit myself to just one bag! Never underestimate your local dollar stores and thrift shops when it comes to handy items for crafters.

Thanks for all your emails and participating in the Fab 5 Giveaway! You make my heart sing! I'm so thrilled to be able to offer all of my blog readers and knitster sisters an opportunity to celebrate Knit 1 for the Road! Winners will be posted tomorrow on this blog. ;)

Back to your regularly scheduled crafting! Marg

Knit 1 for the Road coming soon to Amazon,BookSurge, Alibris, Abebooks
DO YOU TWITTER? FOLLOW KNIT 1 FOR THE ROAD ON TWITTER TODAY!

FAB 5 GIVEAWAY!

START DATE MAY 16TH FRIDAY
END DATE MAY 18TH SUNDAY
WINNER'S WILL BE ANNOUNCED MONDAY MAY 19TH

START TIME : 8:00 pm EST, 6:00 pm, MNT, 5:00pm PST
Emails mailed before this time won't be counted.

Here's your chance to help me celebrate Knit 1 for the Road with these fabulous 5 promotional items. It's all in the numbers. I wanted a chance for more than one person to win today, so the 1rst, 7th, 13th, 21st, 25th people to send an email to knit1fortheroad@gmail.com will win the designated prize for their number. This email account is strictly for the promotional contests and you will not receive a reply or be spammed. All winners will be posted on this site. You will have to send your mailing address to receive the item if you win.

I have included a start time because I want everyone to have a chance to get to their computers!

May the Universe be with you!!!
And now the prizes!


1rst email winner

Enough wool fiber to create the adorable Babies, Bobbles & More pattern featured in Knit 1 for the Road. This hand-dyed wool fiber is gorgeous and soft to the touch from Rachel-Marie of Knitty Dirty Girl.

7th Email Winner

A Knit-Share-Go! sturdy canvas tote for all your portable projects! (like the one's in my book ;) Dimensions are 17 ½ "wide and 15" deep. Plenty of room for Knit 1 for the Road, yarn, and US size 8 needing needles because all the patterns in the book are done in that size!...You'll also have room for your favorite lip gloss of course!

13th email winner

-


This colorful, portable knitting journal to help you stay motivated. It's blank inside, just waiting for your ideas, pics, knitting business cards, pattern notes, hopes, dreams and everyday musings! You will find this a quick, easy way to document & organize those ideas. There are many other helpful techniques in Knit 1 for the Road.


21st email winner

–

The Knit-Share-Go! mouse pad to remind you to take a bit of time for knitting today…more about that in Knit 1 for the Road.

25th email winner

A Knit 1 for the Road cup to fill with your favorite herbal tea, hot chocolate, or café au lait while you're knitting on your favorite Knit 1 for the Road project.

Thanks for stopping by and Happy TGIF Everyone!
Marg

AVAILABE in 3 weeks – stay tuned for updates!

Amazon
BookSurge
Abebooks
Alibris

DO YOU TWITTER?

Follow knit1fortheroad along on Twitter.com

Knit 1 for the Road Promotional Contest

HELP ME CELEBRATE FRIDAY MAY 16TH!

A little bookie poo update for you...first promotional contest will be announced this Friday (May 16th) on this blog ;)

Stay tuned for a chance to win free - yes I said free- Knit 1 for the Road promotional items during this first contest and a few other surprises in the upcoming contest -which will be when the book becomes available on Amazon.

Help me celebrate!

marg

LLAMAJAMA IS FIBER FABULOUS!

Here's another discovery from the Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival!

Llamajama and the friendly, vivacious Meredith Kubicki or Meredith1855 as she's known on Ravelry. I encourage you to stop by and see her site!

The 1855 Fiber Company, of which Llamajama and Ghost Knitters are sister handknitting companies, celebrate International Cooperative Day the first Saturday of July every year. It's a day that celebrates awareness of cooperatives, promoting the movement's successes, as well as its shared ideals of solidarity, economic efficiency, equality, and world peace.

Llamajama, as well as Ghost Knitters allow member-owned, democratically-managed cooperatives in the Andes to earn a steady living spinning, dyeing, knitting and other traditional fiber crafts in isolated communities. A portion of the profits is reinvested into the community, providing funds for public health programs and training.

AND AS IF WE AREN'T LOVING THEM ENOUGH!

Their use of plant based dyes are not only earth-friendly and organic, but they are also appropriate for many knitters who are sensitive to chemical dyes.
For additional info go to ICA or contact Meredith directly at sales@llamajama.com.


I'm going to be dreaming up an eco-friendly project with the yarn I purchased from them - I know it will be something wonderful with all the good vibes in this yarn...get lot's of fiber with Llamajama! Hey, don't laugh, that will be in your head all day to remind you to check out their site! ;)
Marg
Knit 1 for the Road coming soon to Amazon!
Follow knit1fortheroad on Twitter!

WORDS OF WISDOM FOR KNITTING/CROCHETING AND LIFE IN GENERAL

JAYNEBUG ON XANGA.COM

AWESOMELY AMAZING KNIT/CROCHET COMMUNITIES

Current mood: grateful

Over the weekend, when I wasn't catching up on some quickie projects, I spent a little extra time surfing the net and looking for some new charity projects to do - here's what I found...

Tails of Hope Foundation - PROGRAM DESCRIPTION FROM LION BRAND
The Blanketed with LoveSM program helps comfort pets undergoing treatment for cancer or other major illnesses; or those needing hospice comfort. Customized compassionate care packages containing a new blanket, and other items such as pet toys and treats, are shipped to owners. These care packages not only comfort the animals, but also express Tails of Hope Foundation's appreciation to the pets' guardians for providing humane and loving care for their companion animals.

Scarves from the heart is a group I joined on Ravelry, so if you're on Ravelry.com be sure and check this group, if not, no problem, just click on the link. (note: if you aren't on ravelry, yet and would like to be, click on the link for a tour and sign up for an invitation)

ANOTHER Ravelry group with a similar mission is Knots-of-love. You can also visit their site off of the Ravelry site by clicking on the link. They are making Chemo Caps so visit their group on Ravelry or their website for the full scoop!

Knit One in Pittsburgh PA is a very community minded yarn shop knitting/crocheting chemo caps. Check in your area for a local shop or group or become part of the 'Burgh's community ;)

Hope one or all of these worthy groups inspires you to put a needle or two together, bringing us all one step closer to making someone's heart sing!

If you're into reading (when you aren't crafting or spending hours online -teehee) check out Goodreads. A friend invited me and I've been hooked ever since. I also realized I need to read more! I'm on as Marg, so swing by and see what's on my bookshelf. I also have a preview of what Knit 1 for the Road is all about.

You can also follow along for daily updates on Twitter.com as Knit 1 for the Road.
Marg ;)

Life's magic is a lot like a swift flowing river. No matter how long you've overlooked it or unwittingly swam against it, the instant you stop struggling you're back in the flow, hat down low, coolest cat on the block. In other words, your so-called "baggage," ain't no thang.
Coolio- The Universe
TUT

STILETTOS FOR KNITTERS! MARG'S MEGA PICK

Just call this section...knitting in style, my knitster sisters.

ATTN ALL KNITTERS...

ok, now I really have your attention - goodie.

DO check out Signature Needle Arts' stiletto kniting needles this weekend...mega gorgeous, sleek, and mighty fine to knit with. You'll also want to visit Cathy's Blog, Gallery, and the story of how they came to be.

When my package arrived from Signature Needle Arts today - I was floating on a cloud like Charlie Brown! No disappointment with these needles...and they arrived quickly - we likie.

Be sure and put their site in your favorites, folks.

Another fabulous vendor at the Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival brought to you by your shopping diva -

Marg!

Follow along on Twitter (knit1fortheroad) and stop by the official books site for the scoop on all that is Knit 1 for the Road!

SOMETHING FOR THE CRAFTY!

Currently ReadingThe Friday Night Knitting ClubBy Kate Jacobs
Current mood: bouncy Category: Fashion, Style, Shopping



One quick blog - I just came across a site that I haven't seen before ... that is very crafty indeed! CraftStylish . Be sure and check out Corey Fogel at Maker Faire playing drums & knitting. Real men knit and play drums ;)



Join the fun - lot's of knitting, crocheting, sewing, craft ideas, blogging, etc. I'm on as margknittinaround.

Cheerio!
Marg

Knit 1 for the Road
get the scoop on the official book website.

Follow along with me on Twitter(knit1fortheroad)

FIERCE FELTING FOUND!

Current mood: focused Category: Art and Photography

Today's blog is devoted to my felting friends! While at the Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival I found Catfish Studio and the owner/designer extraordinaire Gail Perrone - what a delight! I felt (no pun intended) I had reached Felting Paradise - her pieces were so artistic, it brought back art school memories of what could be done once you let your creative side take over...so definitely take a look at her gallery.

I will be receiving a hard copy of Knit 1 for the Road in the next 10 days for final approval and will have more info on when it hits Amazon.com. Stay tuned for updates! Thanks for all the emails and encouragement.

Knit, crochet or craft for your health this weekend!
Marg

Follow along on Twitter.com (knit1fortheroad)