LiViNG LiFe

Cloud Pillow

2012-02-02T22:21:00.000-08:00

Purple Mittens

2012-01-25T13:38:00.001-08:00

This pair of mittens is constructed from top-down using short-row shaping
for the finger and thumb tips. Decreases are made every other row
on the thumb stitches whereas the palm stitches are maintained.
The cuff uses 2x2 ribbing.

Premier Yarns, Serenity Garden Yarn,
100% Dralon Microfiber, 185 yards/65 g ball,
Machine wash inside out, warm water, gentle cycle.
Tumble dry low heat.
Do not iron. Do not bleach.
Color # DN800-07/Crocus, Lot # S3728 2011-05, 1 x Skein
Note: The mittens are worked over 2 skeins for ease of thumb installment.
Needle: US3 3.25mm

Oyster Purse

2012-01-25T13:38:00.000-08:00

This purse is inspired by the leftover yarn from the Chrysanthemum Bag.
It is worked from bottom-up using short-row shaping,
making the construction practically seamless.
Seed stitch is used to define the opening and the flap.
The button hole is a one-row and a wooden toggle button is used.

As for lining, again, toile with children playing print is used.

Knit Picks, Palette,

100% Peruvian Highland Wool, 231 yards/50 g ball,

Hand wash and dry flat.

Color # I989 Oyster Heather, Dye Lot # 9646, < 1 x Yarn Ball(s)

Needle: US1 2.25mm

A Shawl So Wheaty

2012-01-06T00:00:00.000-08:00

Shawl
Imperial Stock Ranch Yarn, Tracie,

100% Wool, 450 yards/4 oz ball,

Hand wash, Dry flat.

Color # 112/Wheat Heather, Lot # 809, 1 x Skein

Needle: US6 4.0mm

Edging

Knit Picks, Palette,

100% Peruvian Highland Wool, 231 yards/50 g ball,

Hand wash and dry flat.

Color # I989/Oyster Heather, Dye Lot # 9646, >1/10 x Skein

Pom Pom Scarf

2012-01-04T00:00:00.000-08:00

Jo-Ann Sensations, Angel Hair

22% Wool/50% Acrylic/28% Nylon, 120 yards/100 g ball,

Hand wash, Dry flat.
Art # 09122425, Color # 3911/Red Multi, Lot # 1458, 2 x Yarn Balls
Needle: US8 5.0mm

Purple Pom Pom

The Original Sugar 'n Cream, Lily,

100% Cotton, 120 yards/ 70.9 g ball,

Machine wash/dry.

Color # 01317/Hot Purple, Lot # 272082

Blue Pom Pom

Peaches & Cream,

100% Cotton, 120 yards/ 70.9 g ball,

Machine wash/dry.

Color # 01730/Bright Aqua, Lot # 279785

Green & Pink Pom Poms

Peaches & Cream, Scents

100% Cotton, 95 yards/ 56.7 g ball,

Machine wash/dry.

Color # 05415/Rose Garden, Lot #273054,

Color # 05230/Soothing Aloe, Lot # 281077

My First Pair of Experimental Socks

2012-01-02T00:00:00.000-08:00

This pair of socks is worked from the toe-up.

The toes and heels are formed using the same amount of short-row shaping.

Both wraps are picked up for the toes
whereas only one wrap is picked up for the heels.

CO technique: Crochet chains

BO technique: Russian

Ice Yarns, Otello

100% Wool, ~246 yards/50 g ball,

Machine Wash/Dry Flat. Do not iron. Do not bleach.

Color Pink White, Lot # 21636, 1 x Yarn Ball

Needle: US6 4.0mm

Kraemer, Perfection DK,

30% Superwash Merino/70% Acrylic, ~260 yards/100 g ball,

Machine Wash/Tumble Dry
Color # Y2246/Flora, Lot # 17523 , < 1 x Yarn Ball

Needle: US6 4.0mm

Chrysanthemum Bag

2011-12-30T00:00:00.000-08:00

This bag is inspired by Koitsu Tsuchiya's Watercolor Chrysanthemum.

The Chrysanthemum motif is duplicate stitched on.

The background uses small sections of intarsia over the curves.
The opening edges are finished with two rows of single crochet.
As for lining, toile with children playing print is used. There are two compartments.

Knit Picks, Palette,

100% Peruvian Highland Wool, 231 yards/50 g ball,

Hand wash and dry flat.

Color # C872 Iris Heather, Dye Lot # 2028, ~3/4 x Yarn Ball(s)
Color # CK09 Opal Heather, Dye Lot # 1649, ~3/4 x Yarn Ball(s)

Color # I989 Oyster Heather, Dye Lot # 9646, ~1/4 x Yarn Ball(s)

Color # 2200 Fairy Tale, Dye Lot # 9735, ~1/8 x Yarn Ball(s)

Color # 4908 Lady Slipper, Dye Lot # 5470, ~1/8 x Yarn Ball(s)

Color # 0633 Mustard, Dye Lot # 4152, ~1/8 x Yarn Ball(s)

Color # 0184 Custard, Dye Lot # 9732, ~1/8 x Yarn Ball(s)

Color # C816 Forest Heather, Dye Lot # 0992, ~1/8 x Yarn Ball(s)

Color # I982 Grass, Dye Lot # 9748, ~1/8 x Yarn Ball(s)

Color # 0980 Edamame, Dye Lot # 1308, ~1/8 x Yarn Ball(s)

Needle: US1 2.25mm

A Christmas present for G.

Dear American Gothic,

2011-12-28T00:00:00.000-08:00

Size: 10" x 8"

Medium: Watercolor

A Christmas present for C.

Floating on Cloud Owl

2011-12-26T00:00:00.000-08:00

Size: 10" x 8"

Medium: Watercolor

A Christmas present for J.

Merry Christmas & Happy 2012!

2011-12-24T00:00:00.000-08:00

Our presents under the little knitted tree.

Tiny Christmas tree hanging from the tip.

Reindeer (Mr. Flat Head), a Christmas present from K. Also some nutcrackers and ornaments from previous years.

Tree top:
Seed stitched.

Lion Brand Yarn, Holiday Homespun,

98% Acrylic/2% Metallic Polyester, 154 yards/141 g ball,

Machine wash and dry. Do not bleach or iron.

Art # 791, Color # 202/Wreath, Lot # 1009802, 1 x Yarn Ball

Needle: US10 6.0mm

Tree trunk:
2 by 2 ribbing.

Lion Brand Yarn, Wool Ease Chunky,

80% Acrylic/20% Wool, 153 yards/140 g ball,

Machine wash warm medium cycle. Tumble dry low.

May be dry cleaned. Do not bleach. Do not iron.

Art # 640, Color # 124/Barley, Lot # 64808, < 1 x Yarn Ball

Needle: US11 8.0mm

Found You!

2011-12-18T14:19:00.000-08:00

Size: 12" x 12"

Medium: Watercolor

A Christmas present for K.

Christmas Brooches 2011

2011-12-16T15:52:00.000-08:00

Frost, December 12th 2011

2011-12-13T15:52:00.000-08:00

Oh... this is so heavy

2011-12-09T00:00:00.000-08:00

Clipped Wings

2011-12-06T00:00:00.000-08:00

Finally some pictures while the sun is out.

This blouse design features an allover lace back and exposed upper arm.

I use the leaf chain swatch

from "Stitchionary 5: Lace Knitting" by Vogue Knitting

for the back, front hem, and sleeves hem

with some modification on how each leaf chain ends on the top.

The sleeves have continuous lattices as the leaf chain hem disappears

and are ribbed on the top edge for comfortable tension around the arms.

The neckline is finished with two rounds of single crochets.

Ice Yarns, Otello

100% Wool, ~246 yards/50 g ball,

Machine Wash/Dry Flat. Do not iron. Do not bleach.

Color Pink White, Lot # 21636, 4 x Yarn Balls

Needle: US6 4.0mm

You are getting VERY sleepy...

2011-12-05T00:00:00.000-08:00

I am a twig

2011-12-02T00:00:00.001-08:00

I am a leaf

2011-11-28T00:00:00.000-08:00

If I stay still long enough, they will go away...

I am a SUPERSTAR

2011-11-25T00:00:00.000-08:00

Now get off me you damn stones!

Dream state

2011-11-21T00:00:00.000-08:00

Small-Medium-Large

2011-11-18T00:00:00.000-08:00

Hot Water Bottle Cozy

2011-11-16T10:24:00.000-08:00

Let's use up some of those leftover yarns!

This cozy is worked in circle from bottom up.

Ribbing is added on the top opening along with yarn over holes for drawstring.

Cozy

Berroco Comfort, Knitting Worsted Weight,

50% Nylon/50% Acrylic, 210 yards/100 g ball,

Machine wash on gentle cycle in warm water.
No bleach. Tumble dry on low heat. Do not over dry. Do not iron.
Yarn: Color # 9763/Navy Blue, Lot # V1629, < 1 x Yarn Ball(s)
Color # 9700/Chalk, Lot # V1421, < 1 x Yarn Ball(s)
Needle: US6 4.0mm

I-cord drawstring

Cascade Yarns, 220 Superwash

100% Superwash Wool, 220 yards/100 g ball,

Warm gentle machine wash. Tumble dry medium. Iron at medium setting. No bleach.

Color #812/Turquoise, Dye Lot #6471, < 1 x Yarn Ball(s)

Needle: US6 4.0mm

Trumpets

2011-11-14T00:00:00.000-08:00

Fly me to the moon

2011-11-11T00:00:00.000-08:00

A Bag For Toast

2011-11-07T16:23:00.000-08:00

© A Bag For Toast

The sling bag design uses scalloped feather lace swatch
from "Knitting on the Edge" by Nicky Epstein
for the body of the bag,
and seed stitch for the strap.
It is approximately the size of a piece of toast.

Cascade Yarns, 220 Superwash

100% Superwash Wool, 220 yards/100 g ball,

Warm gentle machine wash. Tumble dry medium. Iron at medium setting. No bleach.

Color #812/Turquoise, Dye Lot #6471, < 1 x Yarn Ball(s)

Needle: US5 3.75mm, strap
US7 4.50mm, bag

Water

2011-11-07T00:00:00.000-08:00

We are here for you

2011-11-04T00:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T00:00:00.000-07:00

The big picture

2011-10-28T00:00:00.000-07:00

Sally Sells Seashells by the Seashore

2011-10-25T00:00:00.000-07:00

This cardigan design features

frost flowers and ridges swatch for hem
from "Stitchionary 5: Lace Knitting" by Vogue Knitting and
hot pink contrasting cuffs, neckline, and button/button hole rows.

Lion Brand Yarn, Amazing,

53% Wool/47% Acrylic, 147 yards/50 g ball,

Machine wash. Dry Flat. Do not iron. Do not bleach. Dry clean any solvent.
Color # Pink Sands/207, Art #825, Lot #2139, 8 x Yarn Balls
Needle: US7 4.5mm

Atomic Blue, Painted Lady Sport,
100% merino, 200 yards/50 g ball,
Color Queen Anne Pink, 1 x Yarn Ball
This yarn is 100% organic (there are hay bits to pick out when knitting).

Needle: US7 4.5mm

Buttons: Shells, Favorite Findings by Blumenthal

Striving to live

2011-10-24T00:00:00.000-07:00

Lurking

2011-10-21T00:00:00.000-07:00

Outnumbered

2011-10-17T00:00:00.000-07:00

Networking

2011-10-14T00:00:00.000-07:00

Sweetheart Dress

2011-10-12T13:41:00.000-07:00

Top: Corset cups, Center: Tapering of triangle towards waist, Bottom: Slip-stitch ripples on skirt

Left: Front of dress, Center: Built-in bra and waist stay, Right: Victorian boot button loop closure

This knitted corset dress features

seed-stitch removable straps,

seed-stitch set-in cups shaped with short rows,

victorian boot button loops back closure

from "Knitting Beyond the Edge" by Nicky Epstein,

slip-stitch ripples swatch for skirt

from "Stitchionary 5: Lace Knitting" by Vogue Knitting,

built-in strapless bra, and waist stay.

Lang Yarns, Georgia,

96% Cotton/4% Polyester, ~120yards/50 g ball, Machine Wash/Dry Flat

Color # 730.0006, Lot # 4297 , 12 x Yarn Balls

Needle: US4 3.5mm

Buttons: 11 buttons of La Mode Style 37465 (Hook 988), Blumenthal

Thanks to J for the constant support and challenge to make a more ornate piece.

Check out the matching build-in bra here!

Mostly complementary

2011-10-10T00:00:00.000-07:00

Make peace with nature

2011-10-07T00:00:00.000-07:00

A Matching Bra

2011-10-05T22:25:00.000-07:00

I designed a knitted corset dress. In order to make it easily wearable, I decided to include a built-in bra.

Bra choice: Hanes Concealing Petals Strapless Underwire Bra in white, 36B

I needed 34C for strapless bra to work on me but Hanes does not produce this bra in C cup for size 34.

Dye choice: Rit Liquid Dye in evening blue

Rit Liquid Dye in Evening Blue

Dyeing Recipe
Ingredients:
1 gallon hot tap water
4oz Rit liquid dye (8oz bottle)
1/2 cup vinegar

Tools:
Rubber gloves
Unwanted pot (I bought a crock pot from Goodwill thrift store for USD1.99)
Unwanted spatula (again from Goodwill for USD0.99)

Steps:

Soak bra thoroughly in warm water.
Add all ingredients in pot and stir well.
Add bra and removable straps into pot.
Submerge items under dye mixture.
Move them around every 5-10 minutes for one hour. Make sure to move sliders of adjustable straps as well. (I forgot on mine.)
Rinse well in warm water until water runs clear.
Press as much water out as possible.
Hang dry.


Dye mixture

Last rinse cycle


Bra composition

Results:

The main nylon fabric turns out vibrantly blue. The polyester cup linings are mostly light blue. The bra hooks, sliders, and hooks-and-eyes appear undyed. The bra also appears just a little bit darker when wet.

I also dyed a piece of 100% white cotton fabric (muslin) for comparison. It turns out to be dull teal as indicated on the Rit liquid dye bottle itself.


Left: Wet, Right: Dry

Left column: Right side, Right column: Wrong side
1. & 2. Cups, lining, elastic band, and under-wire channeling
3. & 4. Side reinforcement and thread color
5. & 6. Back bands, hooks-and-eyes, straps, anti-slip rubbery bands

Dyed 100% cotton (muslin)

I have wings but I cannot fly

2011-10-03T00:00:00.000-07:00

Let me out!

2011-09-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

A Pair of Shorts with a Flare

2011-09-26T10:53:00.000-07:00

This pair of shorts features a flared hem, illusion of darts, and belt loops.

Caron, Simply Soft Paints,

100% Acrylic, 200 yards/113 g ball,

Machine washable and dryable.

Color # 0009/Sticks & Stones, Dye Lot # 55506, 3 x Yarn Ball(s)

Needle: US7 4.5mm

Note: This yarn is stiff.
It is impossible to incorporate cables with it since it does not twist gracefully.

I am innocent

2011-09-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

I am a bachelor

2011-09-23T00:00:00.000-07:00

Forsaken

2011-09-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

Fleeting Moment

2011-09-16T00:00:00.000-07:00

Fire! Fire!

2011-09-12T00:00:00.000-07:00

Call me red

2011-09-09T00:00:00.000-07:00

Thank you Burdastyle!

2011-09-05T11:47:00.000-07:00

I am the featured member for this week.

Check out my interview article at:

http://www.burdastyle.com/blog/featured-member-smallfire

Cloud Filter

2011-09-05T00:00:00.000-07:00

Dare to be different

2011-09-02T00:00:00.000-07:00

Color Block Collar Sweater

2011-08-30T09:56:00.000-07:00

© Color Block Collar Sweater

Design features I-corded neckline, peter pan collar,
wide band ribbed hem, knit-purl chevron body, and set-in sleeves.

Berroco, Comfort DK
50% Super Fine Nylon/50% Super Fine Acrylic, 178 yards/50 g ball,
Machine wash. Tumble dry. Do not iron. Do not bleach.
Color # 2733/Turquoise , Dye Lot # V1629, 6 x Yarn Ball(s)
Color # 2739/Grape Jelly, Dye Lot # V1240, 1 x Yarn Ball(s)

Needle: US5 3.75mm

Will you dance with me?

2011-08-29T00:00:00.000-07:00

Let's Sunbathe

2011-08-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

Little Red Poncho

2011-08-24T00:00:00.000-07:00

I only have 8 skeins of this yarn.
It is a discontinued yarn so that limits what I can make.
I wanted a red sweater but I guess a red cropped poncho will have to do.
This yarn is very stiff when wet but dries to luxurious softness.

Austermann, Bambou De Lux
100% Bamboo, 38 yards/50 g ball.
Hand wash. No dryer. No iron.
Color # 0005/Red, Lot # B-016, 8 x Yarn Balls
Needle: US10 6.0mm

It takes two

2011-08-22T00:00:00.000-07:00

Traffic Swedish Fish

2011-08-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

Golden Tent Dress

2011-08-07T13:06:00.000-07:00

Design features tent shaped flow, dropped stitch sleeves,
simple yarn-over lace column, and slipped stitch hem.

Berroco, Mica,

31% Cotton/26% Silk/23% Nylon/20% Linen, 108 yards/40 g ball,

Hand wash cool. Fry flat. Do not iron.

Color #1103/Mushroom, Dye Lot #102, 12 x Yarn Ball(s)

Needle: US7 4.5mm

Many THANKS to knittybarb on Ravelry for the extra few yards of yarn!!!

My Garden 2011

2011-08-04T10:55:00.000-07:00

The OCD Shorts

2011-08-02T12:04:00.000-07:00

© The OCD Shorts

I have a yard of fabric left from 'The OCD Skirt' project.
The pattern is from some old stock I found locally for 25 cents each.
It is Butterick 5457 shorts pattern in size 10 by John Kloss.
I made some minor changes to the waistline and hemline
to accommodate for the fabric pattern.

Purse Magic

2011-07-31T14:44:00.000-07:00

I made this awhile back to store driving license, credit cards, and some cash

whenever I cannot carry a handbag along.

This design is easy to reverse engineer so I am not planning on a tutorial

but below is a few notes.

Design Notes:

The front tab can be shaped as desired - scallop, envelope, zig-zag, etc.
It is important to make sure that the inner layer (the last set of pictures) is not much deeper than credit card size. Otherwise, have fun fishing out your stuff!

5:47 am

2011-07-29T05:56:00.001-07:00

Jumpsuit 1.0

2011-07-24T14:36:00.000-07:00

Pattern D, size XS of Butterick B5652.
V-neck, 22" zipper back, hook-and-eye & decorative button closure, side pockets

Fruity Summer Dress

2011-07-15T14:04:00.000-07:00

This dress design features:
"fettuccine" straps,
horizontally tucked bodice,
side zipper closure,
tie back & pleats below bust line,
scalloped hem.

Heather, You Make Me Envious

2011-07-10T20:12:00.000-07:00

Dress: Kraemer, Perfection DK,
30% Superwash Merino/70% Acrylic, ~260 yards/100 g ball, Machine Wash/Tumble Dry
Color # Y2246/Flora, Lot # 17523 , 4 x Yarn Balls
Needle: US4 3.5mm

Belt & Hair Band: Cascade, Cascade 220 Wool,
100% Peruvian Highland Wool, 220 yards/100 g ball, Hand Wash/Dry Flat
Color # 9404 Ruby, Dye Lot # 4340, 1 x Yarn Ball,
Color # 9429 Mossy Rock, Dye Lot # 7707, 1 x Yarn Ball

Needle: US4 3.5mm

Fruity Cropped Top

2011-07-09T09:34:00.000-07:00

Cropped from pattern B, size 10 of Butterick B5211. The original pattern is for a dress.

A Hot Summer Day

2011-07-08T06:00:00.001-07:00

Size: 12" x 12"
Medium: Watercolor

Bow Tie

2011-07-07T09:57:00.000-07:00

I got this lovely piece from a local fabric store.
They have a tonne of old stock (fabrics, trims, patterns, etc) in the back room.
According to the owner, those stocks are at least 25 years old.
I guess this piece can be considered vintage.
All I did was gluing a pin on the back side.

Be Jeweled

2011-07-06T15:58:00.003-07:00

Hello! It has been awhile, hasn't it?

I would like to share some of the jewelries that I made.
Individual pieces are from Michaels Store.
Enjoy!!

Necklaces

Chokers

Bracelet

Let's Be Friends

2011-05-27T13:53:00.000-07:00

For a new friend!

Size: 12" x 12"
Medium: Watercolor

Mini Mochi Shawl

2011-03-24T14:15:00.000-07:00

© Mini Mochi Shawl

Pattern: The Secret of The One-Skein Shawl by Clara Parkes
with needle size and overall size modification.

Yarn: Crystal Palace Yarn, Mini Mochi,

80% Merino Wool/20% Nylon, 195 yards/50 g ball,

Hand or Machine Wash/Dry flat. Do not put in a dryer.

Top Color # 110 Jungle, Dye Lot # 26, 1 x Yarn Ball(s)

Bottom Color # 108 Neptune Rainbow, Dye Lot # 40, 1 x Yarn Ball(s)

Needle: US6 4mm

The Subject is Rose

2011-03-21T12:23:00.010-07:00

Yarn: Berroco Comfort Chunky, Bulky Weight,

50% Super Fine Nylon/50% Super Fine Acrylic, 150 yards/100 g ball,

Machine wash on gentle cycle in warm water.

No bleach. Tumble dry on low heat. Do not over dry. Do not iron.

Color # 5753 Agean Sea, Dye Lot # V 1337, V 1440, 8 x Yarn Ball(s)

Color # 5724 Pumpkin, Dye Lot # V 1333, 1 x Yarn Ball(s)
Color # 5750 Primary Red, Dye Lot # V 1532-1, 1 x Yarn Ball(s)
Color # 5760 Beet Root, Dye Lot # V 1584, 1 x Yarn Ball(s)
Color # 5780 Dried Plum, Dye Lot # V 1337, 1 x Yarn Ball(s)
Color # 5723 Rosebud, Dye Lot # V 1333, 1 x Yarn Ball(s)
Color # 5740 Seedling, Dye Lot # V 1333, 1 x Yarn Ball(s)
Color # 5752 Adirondack, Dye Lot # V 1265, 1 x Yarn Ball(s)

Color # 5727 Spanish Brown, Dye Lot # V 1333, 1 x Yarn Ball(s)

Needle: US10.5 6.5mm
Approximately 500 yarn tails. Knit fabric for lining.

The Perfect Shade

2011-03-13T15:20:00.000-07:00

Size: 12" x 12"
Medium: Watercolor

Winter Blues

2011-02-19T19:54:00.001-08:00

© Winter Blues

Knit fabric sewn using existing long sleeve T-shirt as pattern.
Embroidered message on the inner bottom side.
Most importantly, he likes it!

Happy Lunar New Year!

2011-02-03T18:49:00.001-08:00

Heather, You Make Me Blush

2011-01-28T14:43:00.002-08:00

Lion Brand Yarn, Wool-Ease Worsted Weight,

80% Acrylic/20% Wool, 197 yards/85 g ball,

Machine wash warm medium cycle. Tumble dry low.

May be dry cleaned. Do not bleach. Do not iron.

Color # 104/Blush Heather, Art # 620, Lot # 40675, 42102, 4095, 6 x Yarn Balls

Needle: US7 4.5mm

Christmas Goodies!!!

2010-12-27T15:00:00.009-08:00

Outbox

Homemade pouches with holiday brooches inside


Christmas Brooches


Digital Camouflage Blanket Houndstooth Blanket Inbox Handmade Reversible Grocery Bag Handmade Pin Cushion Yarn and Christmas Card Holiday Mugs Books and Theater Voucher T-Shirt and Playing Cards © Christmas Goodies

O Christmas Tree

2010-12-23T22:00:00.003-08:00

Merry Christmas to you and your family!

Santa Hats!

2010-12-21T10:21:00.001-08:00

The Striped Cardigan

2010-12-18T08:15:00.003-08:00

Lion Brand Yarn, Cotton Ease,

50% Cotton/50% Acrylic, 207 yards/100 g ball,

Machine washable and dryable.
Do not iron. Do not bleach. Dry clean any solvent.
Color # 152/Charcoal, Art # 830, Lot # 35578A, 1 x Yarn Ball,
Color # 149/Stone, Art # 830, Lot # 35578B, 4 x Yarn Balls,
Color # 122/Taupe, Art # 830, Lot # 41750A, 4 x Yarn Balls

Needle: US8 5.0mm, US6 4.0mm
Buttons: Blumenthal Lansing Co., Organic Elements #2701 (cured to allow washing)

Teddy and I

2010-12-18T08:13:00.002-08:00

Teddy wants to play grown up so I made him a moustache.
I have the good old bow tie and moustache ideas implemented as brooches.

The Late Bloomers

2010-12-13T21:21:00.000-08:00

Our cosmos seashells bloom in winter. Rest assured they are indoor.

No plants are harm in the photography session.

The Winter Wonder Dress

2010-12-13T20:59:00.002-08:00

Lion Brand Yarn, Amazing,

53% Wool/47% Acrylic, 147 yards/50 g ball,

Machine wash. Dry Flat. Do not iron. Do not bleach. Dry clean any solvent.
Color # 205/Olympia, Art # 825, Lot # 7185, 7752, 10 x Yarn Balls

Needle: US7 4.5mm

The OCD Skirt

2010-11-06T11:26:00.001-07:00

OCD - obsessive-compulsive disorder.
The construction of this skirt proved that I have OCD in a way or another.
I was so obsessed in getting the pattern to align at the seams.

The skirt is made of printed knit fabric with elastic band at waist.
Hopefully, it brings some colors to the dull winter.

Meet The Teddies

2010-11-03T13:16:00.000-07:00

Hope you like these brooches!

Happy Halloween 2010 ! ! !

2010-10-30T22:00:00.004-07:00

© Happy Halloween 2010

When it comes to cute food decorations, I'd say she's the best I've seen.
AnnaTheRed is THE bento girl!
Specific post inspiration from AnnaTheRed's Bento Factory:
http://www.annathered.com/2010/10/21/how-to-make-temari-zushi-temari-sushi/

Ribbed Tank Top

2010-10-30T14:05:00.003-07:00

Pattern: knit.1 Spring/Summer 2005 #24
I knitted mine without the bust details and with different neckline and shoulder shaping.

Jo-Ann Sensations, Angel Hair

51% Nylon/49% Acrylic, 71 yards/50 g ball,

Hand wash, Dry flat.
Color # 13/Fushia, Art # 08140980, Lot # 3748, 4095, 6 x Yarn Balls

Needle: US7 4.5mm

Big Bow

2010-10-19T14:34:00.007-07:00

Click on image for larger view.

This over-sized for comfort sweater has peter pan collar and a detachable bow on the front and a button closure on the back.

Sweater
Lion Brand Yarn, Baby's First Yarn,
55% Acrylic/45% Cotton, 120 yards/ 100 g ball,
Machine washable and dryable.
Do not iron. Do not bleach. Dry clean any solvent.
Color # 146/Sea Sprite, Art # 925, Lot # 10114, 10116, 9 x Yarn Balls
Needle: US10.5 6.5mm

Bow
Lion Brand Yarn, Cotton Ease,
50% Cotton/50% Acrylic, 207 yards/100 g ball,
Machine washable and dryable.
Do not iron. Do not bleach. Dry clean any solvent.

Color # 152/Charcoal, Art # 830, Lot # 35578A, 1 x Yarn Balls

Needle: US5 3.75mm

Thomas Park

2010-10-08T22:29:00.001-07:00

Size: 12" x 12"
Medium: Watercolor

My Name is Pretty

2010-10-08T11:13:00.000-07:00

Have a nice day!

Hands Up in The Blue Sky

2010-10-06T19:00:00.002-07:00

Aye Captain!

2010-10-06T18:46:00.005-07:00

Berroco Comfort, Knitting Worsted Weight,

50% Nylon/50% Acrylic, 210 yards/100 g ball,

Machine wash on gentle cycle in warm water.
No bleach. Tumble dry on low heat. Do not over dry. Do not iron.
Yarn: Color # 9763/Navy Blue, Lot # V1629, 1 x Yarn Balls
Color # 9700/Chalk, Lot # V1421, 6 x Yarn Balls
Needle: US6 4.0mm

I am watching you

2010-10-06T18:30:00.001-07:00

Highly Sought Item ...

2010-10-06T18:25:00.002-07:00

... by the squirrel family

Happy Autumn!

His and Hers

2010-09-15T15:01:00.007-07:00

Her sleeve detail.

HIS

Bernat, Alpaca Natural Blends

70% Acrylic/30% Alpaca, 120 yards/100 g ball,

Hand wash. Dry flat.

I do NOT recommend this yarn. It sheds too much.

Color # 93141/Indigo, Lot #224830
10 x Yarn Balls
Needle: US10 6.0mm

HERS

Bernat, Cottontots

100% Cotton, 171 yards/100 g ball,

Hand wash. Dry flat.

Color # 90005/Wonder White, Lot #226756, 4 x Yarn Balls

Color # 90128/Little Boy Blue, Lot #205433, 4 x Yarn Balls
Needle: US7 4.5mm

The Little Yarn Dress

2010-08-18T19:52:00.002-07:00

Lion Brand Yarn, Vanna's Glamour,
96% Acrylic, 4% Metallic Polyester , 202 yards/50 g ball,
Machine washable and dry flat.
Do not iron. Do not bleach. Dry clean any solvent.
Art # 861 , Color # 109/Sapphire, Lot # 726, 562 , 4 x Yarn Balls
Needle: US5 3.75mm

Pattern by: SH

Gauge: 24 sts and 30 rows = 4" in Stockinette Stitch

Size: US 2

Note: This dress is a two piece design, worked from bottom to top.

Pattern:
Cast on 109 sts.

Front Piece
Ribbed Stitch for bottom end of dress
Row 1: K1, P1, K1, P1, ....., K1 (109 sts)
Row 2: P1, K1, P1, K1, ....., P1 (109 sts)
Row 3: Repeat row 1
Row 4: Repeat row 2

Stockinette Stitch for lower body
Row 5: K all sts (109 sts)
Row 6: P all sts (109 sts)
:
:
:
Row 100: P all sts (109 sts)

Reduce stitches at waist
Row 101: K2tog, K105, K2tog (107 sts)
Row 102: P107
Row 103: K107
Row 104: P2tog, P103, P2tog (105 sts)
Row 105: K105
Row 106: P105
:
:
:
Row 140: P2tog, P79, P2tog (81 sts)
Row 141: K81
Row 142: P81
Row 143: K2tog, K77, K2tog (79 sts)
Row 144: P79
Row 145: K79

Stockinette Stitch
Row 146: P all sts (79 sts)
Row 147: K all sts (79 sts)
:
:
:
Row 161: K all sts (79 sts)
Row 162: P all sts (79 sts)

Increase stitches for upper body
Row 163: Cast on 1 sts, K all sts (80 sts)
Row 164: Cast on 1 sts, P all sts (81 sts)
:
:
:
Row 179: Cast on 1 sts, K all sts (96 sts)
Row 180: Cast on 1 sts, P all sts (97 sts)

Sleeve
Row 181: Cast on 12 sts, K all sts (109 sts)
Row 182: Cast on 12 sts, P all sts (121 sts)
Row 183: K all sts (121 sts)
Row 184: P all sts (121 sts)
:
:
:
Row 227: K all sts (121 sts)
Row 228: P all sts (121 sts)

Neckline
Row 229: K54, place 13 sts on holder, tie a second ball of yarn, K54

Right Panel
Row 230: P53, place 1 sts on holder
Row 231: Place 1 sts on holder, K52
Row 232: P51, place 1 sts on holder
Row 233: Place 1 sts on holder, K50
Row 234: P49, place 1 sts on holder
Row 235: Place 1 sts on holder, K48
Row 236: P47, place 1 sts on holder
Row 237: Place 1 sts on holder, K46
Row 238: P45, place 1 sts on holder
Row 239: Place 1 sts on holder, K44
Row 240: Bind off 6 sts, P37, place 1 sts on holder
Row 241: Place 1 sts on holder, K37
Row 242: Bind off 6 sts, P30, place 1 sts on holder
Row 243: Place 1 sts on holder, K30
Row 244: Bind off 6 sts, P23, place 1 sts on holder
Row 245: Place 1 sts on holder, K23
Row 246: Bind off 6 sts, P16, place 1 sts on holder
Row 247: Place 1 sts on holder, K16
Row 248: Bind off 6 sts, P9, place 1 sts on holder
Row 249: Place 1 sts on holder, K9
Row 250: Bind off 6 sts, P2, place 1 sts on holder
Row 251: Place 1 sts on holder, K2
Row 252: Bind off 2 sts, place 1 sts on holder

Left Panel
Row 230: Place 1 sts on holder, P53
Row 231: K52, place 1 sts on holder
Row 232: Place 1 sts on holder, P51
Row 233: K50, place 1 sts on holder
Row 234: Place 1 sts on holder, P49
Row 235: K48, place 1 sts on holder
Row 236: Place 1 sts on holder, P47
Row 237: K46, place 1 sts on holder
Row 238: Place 1 sts on holder, P45
Row 239: Bind off 6 sts, K38, place 1 sts on holder
Row 240: Place 1 sts on holder, P38
Row 241: Bind off 6 sts, K31, place 1 sts on holder
Row 242: Place 1 sts on holder, P31
Row 243: Bind off 6 sts, K24, place 1 sts on holder
Row 244: Place 1 sts on holder, P24
Row 245: Bind off 6 sts, K17, place 1 sts on holder
Row 246: Place 1 sts on holder, P17
Row 247: Bind off 6 sts, K10, place 1 sts on holder
Row 248: Place 1 sts on holder, P10
Row 249: Bind off 6 sts, K3, place 1 sts on holder
Row 250: Place 1 sts on holder, P3
Row 251: Bind off 2 sts, place 1 sts on holder

Back Piece
Cast on 109 sts.
Repeat Row 1 to Row 228 as for Front Piece.
Row 229: K all sts (121 sts)
Row 230: P all sts (121 sts)
:
:
:
Row 237: K all sts (121 sts)
Row 238: P all sts (121 sts)

Neckline
Row 239: K45, place 31 sts on holder, tie a second ball of yarn, K45

Right Panel
Row 240: Place 1 sts on holder, P44
Row 241: Bind off 6 sts, K37, place 1 sts on holder
Row 242: Place 1 sts on holder, P37
Row 243: Bind off 6 sts, K30, place 1 sts on holder
Row 244: Place 1 sts on holder, P30
Row 245: Bind off 6 sts, K23, place 1 sts on holder
Row 246: Place 1 sts on holder, P23
Row 247: Bind off 6 sts, K16, place 1 sts on holder
Row 248: Place 1 sts on holder, P16
Row 249: Bind off 6 sts, K9, place 1 sts on holder
Row 250: Place 1 sts on holder, P9
Row 251: Bind off 6 sts, K2, place 1 sts on holder
Row 252: Place 1 sts on holder, P2
Row 253: Bind off 2 sts, place 1 sts on holder

Left Panel
Row 240: Bind off 6 sts, P38, place 1 sts on holder
Row 241: Place 1 sts on holder, K38
Row 242: Bind off 6 sts, P31, place 1 sts on holder
Row 243: Place 1 sts on holder, K31
Row 244: Bind off 6 sts, P24, place 1 sts on holder
Row 245: Place 1 sts on holder, K24
Row 246: Bind off 6 sts, P17, place 1 sts on holder
Row 247: Place 1 sts on holder, K17
Row 248: Bind off 6 sts, P10, place 1 sts on holder
Row 249: Place 1 sts on holder, K10
Row 250: Bind off 6 sts, P3, place 1 sts on holder
Row 251: Place 1 sts on holder, K3
Row 252: Bind off 2 sts, place 1 sts on holder

Finishing
Sew side and shoulder seams. Weave in ends.

Right and Left Sleeve Ends:
Pick up 120 sts around sleeve end. Place marker to indicate beginning of stitch.
Round 1: K2, P2, ....., K2, P2
Round 2 to 4: Repeat Round 1
Round 5: Bind off.

Collar:
Move sts on holder to knitting needles and bind off.

Jasmine Kimono

2010-08-04T16:20:00.006-07:00

Lion Brand Yarn, Baby's First Yarn,
55% Acrylic/45% Cotton, 120 yards/ 100 g ball,
Machine washable and dryable.
Do not iron. Do not bleach. Dry clean any solvent.
Art # 925, Color # 103/Fairy Tale, Lot # 10109, 6 x Yarn Balls
Needle: US10 6.0mm

Pattern: Free Pattern - Lion Brand Baby's First Jasmine Kimono from 2010 Michaels Stores, Inc. with size and tie modification by SH. The original pattern is for kids of 2 to 3 years. I resized this pattern to fit an adult female.

Gauge: 14 sts and 18 rows = 4" in Stockinette Stitch

Size: US 2 to US 4

Note: Kimono is worked in one piece starting at lower edge of Back, worked up to and over the shoulders, down the Fronts, and ending at lower edge of Fronts.

Back
Cast on 68 sts. Work in St st (k on RS, p on WS) until piece measures 12" from beg, end with a WS row.

Shape Sleeves
Cast on 28 sts at beg of next 2 rows - 124 sts. Continue in St st, until piece measures 20" from beg, end with WS row.

Shape Neck
Next Row (RS)
K 46 sts and place stitches on holder for Right Front, join 2nd ball of yarn and bind off next 32 sts for Back neck, k to end for Left Front.

Left Front
Working on 46 sts on Left Front only, work 11 more rows in St st.

Next Row (RS)
K 2, yo, knit to end - 47 sts at end of this row.

Next Row
Purl to last 2 sts, yo, p 2 - 48 sts at end of this row. Repeat last 2 rows until Sleeve measures 16" from cast-on edge, end with a RS row. (23 rows at 71 sts)

Shape Sleeve
Next Row (WS)
Bind off 28 sts, purl to last 2 sts, yo, p 2. Continue in St st working yo increases at neck edge every row until there are 68 sts on needle (24 rows). Continue even in St st until piece measures 42" from beg, end with a WS row. Bind off.

Right Front
From WS, place Right Front stitches back on needle. Beg with a WS row, work 11 more rows in St st.

Next Row (RS)
Knit to last 2 sts, yo, k 2 - 47 sts at the end of this row.

Next Row
P 2, yo, purl to end - 48 sts at end of this row. Repeat last 2 rows until Sleeve measures 16" from cast-on edge, end with a WS row.

Shape Sleeve
Next Row (WS)
Bind off 28 sts, knit to last 2 sts, yo, k 2. Continue in St st working yo increases at neck edge every row until there are 68 sts on needle. Continue even in St st until piece measures 42" from beg, end with a WS row. Bind off.

Finishing
Fold piece in half at shoulder. Sew side and Sleeve seams. Weave in ends.

Ties
Sew on ribbons at lower end of Right Front neck shaping, at lower end of Left Front neck shaping, at inner Right Side, and outer Left Side.

Abbreviations
beg = begin(ning)
k = knit
p = purl
RS = right side
st = stitch(es)
St st = stockinette stitch
WS = wrong side
yo = yarn over

The Scarf Lady

2010-08-04T16:19:00.002-07:00

When Goth Meets Romance

2010-07-21T17:19:00.004-07:00

This dress design can be worn three ways; belt at waist, no belt or belt at low waist.

Details include black lace window with zipper and tiny black button on each end of sleeves. Twist belt tie however you want; front, side or back.

Eat Your Vegetables!

2010-07-21T17:12:00.007-07:00

Apart from the two worst enemies, caterpillars and japanese beetles, our garden has been blooming very well.

The bugs eat and destroy leaves! The japanese beetles also leave burn marks on the leaves which look very much like burned paper edges. The caterpillars like flower plants whereas the japanese beetle prefer okra, basil, and rose bushes.

Here are what I have harvested so far. Enjoy!

First Date

2010-07-17T19:35:00.003-07:00

Apparently, hair can speak a thousand words.