You are not alone...knitting help is on the way.

Today, I'd like to begin the  week with techniques people frequently ask me about.  Many of you enjoy well made, simple and quick videos but don't want to sort through the sea of not so simple and quick videos out there.  Here are a some of my favorite videos to help simplify and get you going in the right direction.

Knitting Help - Getting Started with DPNs by very pink.  I love this simple yet informative video that really takes you through the steps that needlessly mystify and frustrate you when learning to use dpn's.

Double Knitting - Knit Faster by the fabulous Liat of KNITFreedom.com.  (Liat stopped by for an interview with me on knit1fortheroad, Liat Gat gives the scoop on Become a Knitting SUPERSTAR!). Do visit her website and subscribe to Liat's videos and newsletter updates while you're there.  Liat is such an excellent teacher and her love for knitting really shines through. There will be more on Liat this week here on knit1fortheroad, stay tuned.

Knitting in the Round - Magic Loop from KnitPicks.com

Marcy Smith interviews Seamless Crochet author, Kristin Omdahl

Here's something for your crochet state of mind... there's a wonderful book called Seamless Crochet by Kristin Omdahl that gives you a new approach to crochet and includes fabulous patterns you're going to want to dive into right away. I'm loving that hat pattern!  Enjoy her interview with Marcy Smith.

There's no need to get discouraged...help is on the way.  Keep knitting, stay inspired, and look for the yarn and projects that make your heart sing and your fingers tingle...


Enjoy Monday and the chance to begin again.
Margaret

Visit knit1fortheroad.com for more knitting resources, free patterns, interesting interviews and more.

Worsted 8

Looking for beautiful colors, easy care worsted yarn, and new projects to knit or crochet?  Try the new yarn from Herrschners, Worsted 8 Yarn.  I'm thinking warm afghans, charity knit/crochet items, and home decor projects, myself. You can also save 44% if you order from the website. Hooray! There are sooo many yummy colors to choose from, too. 

Margaret (remembering the first yarn I ever ordered from the Herrschner catalog many moons ago)

Every bit of itty bitty goodness...

As a child, I was always intrigued by tiny toys, dolls, and knick knacks.  In a world that encourages everyone to "go big" it's wonderful to see another book, by Anna Hrachovec, Teeny-Tiny Mochimochi: More Than 40 Itty-Bitty Minis to Knit, Wear, and Give.  You may know Anna from her blog.  The book has over 40 projects that are not only teeny tiny, but perfect for destashing and creating a little whimsey for your day or cheer up your friends.  The book is available  in paperback and as a Kindle download.

You might also enjoy Knitting Mochimochi: 20 Super-Cute Strange Designs for Knitted Amigurumi, also by Anna, and available in both paperback and as a Kindle download.

Both books would make excellent gifts for the giving season.


Have a happy teeny tiny Tuesday...
Margaret

Quick, free, and A-dorable!

Today's a quick Saturday blog, but I wanted to share the latest newsletter from LionBrand with some really adorable Autumn projects just waiting for you...oh, and did I mention the patterns are free.  Yeah, I did!
Happy knitting, crocheting and crafty good times!

Margaret (knitting project in one hand, coffee in the other - it's going to be a great day)

Crafty Charity Care

Annie's Gifts  for Chemo on Ravelry.com

This week, I finished a couple of more items (fingerless gloves and slippers) to go along with the Cancer Awareness Scarf for October.  I attached care instructions and a note to the recepient.(not shown)

Join in the group on Ravelry.com or contact Kathleen Greco at JellyYarns.com for more information about the items you can make for a patient in need of your creative care. Btw, Kathleen is the winner of the Fearless Leader Flamie Awards 2011. Congrats!

Be sure and visit the group flckr page! and check out her interview here on knit1fortheroad,

JELLY YARNS INTERVIEW DAY IS HERE! And Jelly Yarns, Part 2.

I hope you will continue to allow hand crafted items to lift the spirit.  Surround yourself with them, share them,and encourage others to do the same.

Looking forward to a busy weekend with knitting or crocheting in between the subtle lines of life.

Margaret (reading and knitting between the lines since .....)

Visit knit1fortheroad for more crafty ways to contribute to charity organizations.

Join me on CreatingTheHive, another great source for charity crafting.

Follow merrily along on Twitter @ knit1fortheroad

Visit my shop on Etsy, margknittinaround (Margaret Nock)

©MargaretNock, 2008-11. All rights reserved.

 

Tada Tuesday

While watching the Ghost Hunters Live Event last night, I was able to finish sock two!  You may have seen the previous recent bloggie on the sock knitting progress, if so, you will know I am sooo happy these socks are finally ready to wear.  I was waiting for a pattern to inspire me and the project sat on the sidelines for too long.  They're made with Rachel-Marie's aka KnittyDirtyGirl fabulous yarn.  Rachel-Marie has moved on to new adventures and enjoys being a Mom, but we all miss her yummy yarn creations and I know she's still being creative in her life. The pattern I used was by Knitamazoo.  You can find the pattern, Strike Up The Band, and other goodies, on Etsy at Knitamazoo Fiber Arts.  I enjoyed using this quick and easy sock pattern and definitely have sock knitting fever now because of it.  LOL!

On to the next one...(a total Ghost Hunters reference)only I'm clicking my needle tips together instead of the fist bump thingie.

Hope you're having a tada kind of day.

Margaret (enjoys knitting around life events, and long walks on the beach)

Follow along on Twitter, @knit1fortheroad

Visit knit1fortheroad.com for free patterns and resources.

Stop by MargKnittinARound on Etsy for great prices for my knit patterns, ready to wear items and signed copies of my books.

Find my books on Amazon, Kindle and AuthorHouseBookstore (on Sale!)

©MargaretNock, 2008-11. All rights reserved.

Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower. ~Albert Camus

for more inspiration, visit The Quote Garden.

It's a handmade celebration over here!

Most of my decorations are handmade by myself or by talented crafters I find on sites like Etsy.com or at local craft shows.  This wreath was created with crafty magic by PeachParlor on Etsy.

Happy Halloween!

from Dave, Margaret, Molly and Max

View from a spooky train ride we took a couple of weekends ago...

©MargaretNock, 2008-11. All rights reserved.

Visit me at knit1fortheroad.com for free patterns, resources and more!

Follow along merrily on Twitter @ knit1fortheroad

Delight in knit books, patterns and handmade items @ MargKnittinARound on Etsy.com.  More items coming soon, stay tuned.

Join me on Creating The Hive, it's free, full of fun and crafty inspiration.



Capsation!

Today's the day!  Knots of Love (KOL) chemo caps are ready to hit the trail. 

Looking for some wonderful charities to knit, craft or crochet for?  Check out the Charity Org page on my website, knit1fortheroad.com for some ideas and inspiration.  While you're there, dive into some free patterns...the Autumn Wowza Scarf and the and Shades of the Celtic Forest Wrist Warmers are perfect for this time of year and would look autumnliscious on you. Just sayin...I can visualise you sipping a Pumpkin Spice hot beverage in your knit1fortheroad finery.  Visit the Free Patterns page.

Stop by Ravelry.com and CreatingTheHive.com for more charity groups and get involoved.  You'll make lots of new friends, explore new patterns, and help put your stitches in the hands of someone in need.  All good, or what? Woot!

The weekend knitfest is almost here...
Enjoy!
Margaret (inviting you to Creating The Hive...go here.)

Visit me on Etsy!  MargKnittinARound, Margaret Nock
Follow merrily along on Twitter @ knit1fortheroad
Find me on Facebook, Margaret Nock

Find my books on AmazonBooks, AuthorHouse/Bookstore (sale price), Kindle Store ($5.99 download) and signed copies on MargKnittinARound on Etsy.  These are reliable sources for my books. 

If you would like to see Knit Knitavian Style as a Kindle download, please feel free to click on the button on the left hand side of the Amazon page to let the publisher know.  Every click helps!

 Due to the massive changes in publishing and the aggressive nature of the internet, I have not authorized and am not affiliated with anyone who charges ridiculously high prices for any of my books.

Scary, Super Scary, and Creepy Cute...enter if you dare!!!

Super Scary Crochet: 35 Gruesome Patterns to Sink Your Hook into [Paperback] by Nicki Trench

Creepy Cute Crochet [Hardcover] by Christin Hadden

Free knit and crochet patterns

Last Minute Skull Caps (Knit Project) free at VickieHowell.com

Jean Greenhowe's Halloween Ghosties (Knit Project) are a quick knit for a last minute project.

A variety of Halloween crochet hats awaits you at Allcrafts.net

Halloween Ghost self patterning yarn sock pattern (Knit Pattern)on Ravelry.com

Enjoy!

Margaret (getting caught up with life and knitting,today)

It's a scene...

The Knit Scene The Knit Scene, Book 768,Columbia Minerva,Original Copyright 1963

a Knit Scene, that is. If you're craving a vintage look and need a fabulous pattern, check out the super budget friendly digital eBook, Columbia Minerva Book 768. This digitally restored eBook is now available at freevintageknitting.com.  While you're there, subscribe to their newsletter for updates, free patterns and all the delicious vintage goodness your heart desires.  Keep up the good work PurpleKittyYarns!

Make a scene, and rock the vintage knits!
Margaret (finding ways to go old school w/ a new attitude) 

Pandas, quality bamboo, and smooth knitting ahead!

Pandas aren't the only ones who love quality bamboo...

 How about the new Tulip C Interchangeable Needles at Caron? These lovelies are easy to use, have that great bamboo feel with no more snagging yarn on your needles because they cables become loose.  Don't you just love a smooth and happy knitting experience?

We took the panda pics today at the Smithsonian's National Zoo in Washington, DC., which has free admission.  Visit their website to check out the animal webcams, find out about special events, and educational programs.

I love starting the week with Pandamonium. (You so knew that was coming, right?)

Hope you find a little time for knitting soon...

Margaret

©MargaretNock, 2008-11. All rights reserved.

 

Feeling a Sheep(ish) KAL coming on?

Knit Simple Holiday 2011 Issue

The Cover Cowl Knit Along starts today. Hooray!  You will love this one.  Check Vickie Howell's blog for details on the how, when and where of this wonderful knitty event.  There will be how to help and tips, so no worries there.

Jump into the knitting pool, meet new friends, and enjoy the fun colors of Sheep(ish) yarn.

Margaret (rainy days bring out KAL fever)

Monday Madness Share for Annie's Gifts for Chemo

Breast Cancer Awareness Scarf going to Annie's Gifts for Chemo on Ravelry.com

If you're already a member of Ravelry, visit the group directly, here.

This past weekend was a whirlwind of knitting, crochet and some time on the road enjoying the sights and sounds of Autumn...and, yes, I'll admit to some pumpkin spice delights. As a result, Monday has me scurrying to get caught up with work, but I wanted to share with you a scarf I recently finished for the group Annie's Gifts for Chemo on Ravelry.com, while I was traveling. 

This week, I hope to have a couple of new items added to the shop... needles crossed.

Thanks to everyone who tweeted or shared that you knit and/or crocheted on I Love Yarn Day! and this weekend.  It's not too late to tweet, share, or comment here if you participated and help spread your love of yarn.

Margaret (enjoying Autumn goodness)

Follow me on Twitter @ knit1fortheroad
Visit my shop on Etsy, margknittinaround
Join me on Facebook, Margaret Nock
Visit me on CreatingTheHive and grab your invitation to
get your crafty craving for community at Creating The Hive, here.

It's a yarn, discount and free eBook weekend...

Celebrate I Love Yarn Day today!

Dive into Bernat Softee Chunky yarn and free ebook, Urban Knits this weekend.  Check out the Bernat newsletter for the code to buy 4 and get 1 free.

The Storage War Yarn Sale starts today at DBNY.  A total saving fest going on over there on yarn and needles, and accessories.

Free Interweave knitting patterns are available at KnittingDaily.com

Enjoy the choices, colors and inspiration...

Margaret (knitting with a yummy pumpkin color today)

Property of knit1fortheroad.com™©

Margaret Nock, 2008- 2011.All rights reserved.

Wowza Wrist Warmers from Knit 1 for the Road on Amazon, Kindle and Margknittinaround.

 

Follow knit1fortheroad on Twitter.

Don't miss The Prohibition Shawl...

This morning, I was reading an article by Michelle Edwards, The Prohibition Shawl in the LionBrand Newsletter and  If you're intrigued by Ken Burns' latest documentary, Prohibition, then you might enjoy reading the article and knitting the pattern. 

It's a knit and crochet marathon over here!  Good thing I warmed up first...with a hot cup of Choffy...and I did not get paid for that endorsement.  I just love all things yummy.

Enjoy your day and I'll be back with more knitting and crochet goodies soon.


Margaret

I used the Travel Go Lightly Purse last weekend at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens to carry my knit and crochet travel projects and other travel essentials.  You can find this free pattern and more on my website, knit1fortheroad.com.

Follow me on Twitter @ knit1fortheroad.  Join me on CreatingTheHive for festive crafting and community. 

©Margaret Nock, Knit1fortheroad.com™ 2008-2011 The pattern and photographs in this document are the property of knit1fortheroad.com and for non-commercial (personal) use only. Unauthorized reproduction, sale in whole or in part, or distribution of the pattern, or knit item is prohibited. All rights reserved.

 

You can take simple steps to prevent, raise awareness, and end breast cancer today.

My friend Teresita, of the Hearts of Love group on Ravelry.com, is coordinating a project for breast cancer awareness. Please visit the group for ways you can participate.  Look for the topic  ♥♥OnceUponAFall Fashion ChemoCap Project ♥♥ on their homepage.

Please take a moment to read about and sign the petition from The National Breast Cancer Coalition: Breast Cancer Deadline 2020, to end of breast cancer by Jan. 1, 2020.
Petition to end breast cancer by Jan. 1, 2020.  You can also go here to respond online to the petition.


Visit your doctor and make and keep an appointment for a mammogram.  Check your insurance provider if you have one.  The laws have changed in the US and they are required to provide more preventitive care, including mammograms. Hooray! Need financial assistance and more information? Here are some places to go for programs to help you. 


Susan G. Komen Foundation Affiliates
American Cancer Society

Breast Cancer Network of Strength

American Breast Cancer Foundation


Please remember to check your breasts monthly for any changes.  If you need guidance, check with your health care professional.  You can also check How To Do Your Breast Self Exam.


Please take time to care of your amazing self.
Margaret (bolting over to sign the petition now)

Embraceable Wraps is reaching out and spreading love...

This morning, I awoke to a new follower on Twitter, Embraceable Wraps.  I zipped over to the profile and was so impressed with their goals, outlook and enthusiasm that I wanted to share it with you today.

The goal is to provide items such as wraps, blankets, hats, and socks for women undergoing chemotherapy.  They also have a vision to create an online market of items such as yarns, shawls, sweaters, blankets, and pins for purchase.  Hooray!

Do visit the What We Do section to learn how Teri and Lois teamed up with 21st Century C.A.R.E. to make a difference for so many women...and this is just the beginning of their journey.  Please learn how you can help them reach their goals, follow them along on Twitter, for updates,  and visit their website, embraceablewraps.org. You can help them bring much needed sunshine and love into the life of someone faced with cancer treatments.

Don't you love how knitting and crochet changes lives, inspires people and provides some much needed gratitude in the world?  Amazing goodness...

Margaret- still knitting and crocheting in public, are you? Remember to bring your projects with you this week.  They need some fresh air and sunshine, too.

©MargaretNock, 2008-11. All rights reserved.

I had so much fun crocheting a chemo cap at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens over the weekend.

Knit Outta The Box has an exciting new item!

This just in...My friend, Laurie Gonyea, founder of knitouttathebox.com has taken the iMitt© to the next level. You can now purchase the actual hand knit iMitt. Laurie descibes the new ready to wear hand knit item best, so here it is in her very own very knitty words:

Laurie's note:
" I have partnered with a woman's cooperative from Bolivia to hand knit the iMitt using a wonderfully soft alpaca. Every sale that I make goes to helping these women achieve their financial independence. I'm wondering if you would help me spread the word by going to my website and clicking on the "Like" button. If you want to purchase one that would be fabulous, but more importantly I'd love it if you told all of your friends about it."

You can still purchase the iMitt© kit, as well.

There you have it!

You may also enjoy reading Laurie's interview here on Knit1fortheroad.

Enjoy the weekend and choose the crafts that make your heart sing.

Margaret (I love to share a great Saturday knitting scoop)

What's new, creative and fun from Soakwash?

There's a fun new item at Soakwash. Cool stick and soak temporary tats will show the world your passion for knitting.  There are 13 unique designs to choose from to help you spread the knitting word...

Suite up knitters!

Margaret (spread your passion, ignore negativity, and become your new best friend)

Ghostly DIY crafting, ideas and recipes...

Pic taken with a flash during my solo journey into the darkness at Ft Mifflin last Spring. I was walking in total darkness.  Guess I'm more afraid of snakes, clowns, and mean people than the dark.  Go figure...Knitting and exploring respectfully since I can remember.

Do you need some DIY Halloween help?  I was looking around today and noticed Tipnut's DIY Halloween section.  It's a great place to find oodles of free crafty projects, recipes, decorating and party ideas.  You can never be too prepared or too spooky for Halloween. 

Dave and I have our official list of Autumn and Halloween festivities to see and I'll be sharing the spooktacular fun as we go.

Side notes: We saw Abduction this past weekend. It was filmed in Pittsburgh, Dave's hometown and we had fun checking out all the scenes of the city.

My Halloween read is a book by Zak Bagans and Kelly Crigger, Dark World.  It's an interesting look into Zak's life as a ghost hunter. If you enjoy the series, it will not disappoint.

Margaret (knitting, cleaning, and destashing tra la la)

Follow me on Twitter for more knitting, crochet, crafting and whatev - its easy! @ knit1fortheroad

Visit my Etsy shop, margknittinaround for knit pattterns, my books, kits, and ready to wear items.

Visit knit1fortheroad.com for free knitting patterns, resources, crafty interviews, and more.

©MargaretNock, 2008-11. All rights reserved.

The oldest and strongest emotion of mankind is fear, and the oldest and strongest kind of fear is fear of the unknown.
H. P. Lovecraft
Visit theholidayspot.com for more quotes.