Working a Little Magic

Remember a couple of weeks ago when I was sniveling about not being able to knit for three whole days?  Everyone was so kind, offering get well wishes, and ideas for what I could do with myself to pass the time.  The one that really hit home for me was to sit down and design something new (duh!).  I didn't need my thumb for that (much), and more important, it reminded me that things could be worse.  Way worse.  I thought about how lucky I am that I still have my stash.  And my wheel.  And my library.  And (nearly) all my knitting needles.

I was reminded that our own dear Judith MacKenzie has lost all of those things.  I'm never very far from remembering what it feels like to lose one's work, and compared to that, a sore thumb is nothing.

So I determined to use my power for good.  I designed these for Judith:

I had to wait for my hand to heal before I could knit them, and of course the thistle stole had to be finished first. But these funny little rabbits just insisted that I knit them, because I think they can help our friend. 

If you like them, Please CLICK HERE to download your copy of the pattern.  It's only $6, and I'll contribute the proceeds to the rebuilding effort for Judith's studio.  Please tell your knitting friends, too, because together we can help to replace some of what Judith has lost.  Together we can work magic.  Now get hopping.

 

Thistle Stole

At last it's done, and ready for official debut.  I give you; "Thistle":

I'm excited about the tassels, and there's going to be a how-to video for them.  

If you're thinking, "Wow, that's a lot of Stole", you're right.  It measures 66" long by 19" wide.  Super Cozy.  I caught one of the Smallies napping under it.

I won't lie to you, Gentle Readers: Making a stole of this magnitude is thrill-seeking behavior.  But I already knew you were like that.  I've met you.

Did I mention the tassels?  I'm more than a little bit pleased with myself.  You will be too.

The cost of the kit is $85 for non-students, and you (or your representative) just have to pick it up at the Madrona Winter Retreat marketplace in Tacoma, WA.  Included in the kit are all six handpainted colors of yarn (762 grams, or nearly 2 pounds), and the pattern, lovingly packaged by yours truly.  Extra Sass is included, naturally, free of charge.

Send me an e-mail (mary@maryscotthuff.com) if you'd like to reserve a kit in your name. 

For my Eeek! Steeks! students, watch your e-mail for a notice from me that the kits have been shipped.  Lisa is dyeing and skiening like a madwoman as we speak, so it won't be long now.

Don't Forget Your Needles

The Thistle stole is nearly complete!  Today I'm cutting the steek, finishing the ends, and blocking it.  So for those who are worried that it takes a long time to knit, fear not - if I can do it (minus a thumb!) so can you.  I'll post updates on kit shipping as soon as I can.

As I was finishing up last night, I realized that I wanted to give my Madrona Students and kit-buyers advance notice:  You'll need a couple of LONG circular needles to make this project.  Since there may be one or two sales going on today, it's a good time to start shopping so you'll be ready when your kit arrives.  Here's what you'll need:

1 60" (155 cm) size 2 (2.75 mm) circular
1 60" (155 cm) size 3 (3.25 mm) circular

Or the sizes you require to get a gauge of 28 sts and 30 rnds in 4" (10 cm), in 2-color stranded colorwork (larger size is for the main body of knitting, smaller is for the hem facings). 

The yarn in your kit will be a true sportweight, so if you have some yarn to play with for practice, check the ball band for a similar gauge.  And remember, it's a stole, so as long as you like the fabric you get, it really doesn't matter too much what your gauge is.

Oh, and if you prefer wooden needles, I'll save you some time:  I only found one brand that is both wood, and long enough:  addi Natura Bamboo.  Get them HERE, or ask your friendly LYS to order them for you.  Happy Hunting!