Can't Help It

When it comes to yarn, sometimes I can't help myself. I was all set to destash, and had promised my overflowing closets and my bank account that I wouldn't buy any more yarn until I used more of what I already had. But then Elann had to go and have a great sale on the yarn suggested for this cardigan that I have been wanting to make ever since I saw the Fall Vogue Preview back in the summer. And in just the type of neutral with a little kick of color that I was hoping to find for it.

I figured since it was a full bag sale (10 skeins) and I would need 13 for the cardigan, that I should go ahead and get an additional 10 skeins so I would have enough yarn for two sweaters instead of being left with 7 orphaned skeins. Makes sense, right? And $20.50 for 10 skeins of this yarn is a great price. So I made the purchase and told myself again that I was done. Silly me.


Bran wanted to make a necklace for his teacher, so I was picking up some beads at Michaels this week, and I made my usual sweep of the yarn section. A number of yarns were on sale, but nothing outrageous, or so I thought. Then I spied the sign in front of the Patons SWS - 2 for $3! I did a double-take to make sure I was seeing it correctly, and then proceeded to look through the color options and place 12 skeins of black and 12 of natural plum into my cart.

I considered SWS for the Tilted Duster when the pattern first came out, but didn't want to shell out the $60 that it would have cost at the time. Now I have more than enough yarn for the sweater (I'll use the black), and it only cost $18! I also used SWS for a felted bowl last year, and it felted beautifully, so I can imagine making a few felted purses or bowls for gifts out of the natural plum if it doesn't end up in sweater form as well.

I am learning a program of cabaret songs right now, including "Falling in Love Again." When G makes fun of my weakness for yarn sales, I just smile and sing "I can't help it."

Letting Go

I often find myself holding on to the yarn in my stash until I have searched far and wide for the best project I can find for it. I'm not just talking about large quantities of yarn for big projects, but also random single skeins that I want to put to a good use, and end up obsessing over it.

There is nothing inherently wrong with this practice, and it allows me to find many beautiful and interesting patterns, especially now that Ravelry makes it so easy. But, I'm sure I'd get a lot more knitting done if I would make a decision and cast on before I had a chance to waffle. So, in the interest of trying to be more decisive, getting more knitting done and using up my stash, I have decided to do an experiment.

I bought a few baskets in various sizes and then chose patterns and corresponding yarns and needles to go with them. Before the materials were placed in the basket, I cast on and knit a few rows. I am hoping that if the yarn is already being used, it will make it much less likely for me to change my mind.

Here are the projects I have started so far. The ones that are gifts will be getting the most attention.

Cobblestone Pullover for G in Cascade 220 Heathers

Wedgewood Blouse for my MIL in Lion Brand Cotton-Ease

Lace Ribbon Scarf in Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock Multi.

Koolhaas in Laines du Nord Cashsilk

I have organized but not cast on yet for these projects.

Fast Favorite Vest in Patons Merino for my FIL

Backyard Leaves in Blue Face Leicester Aran

Noro Striped Scarf in Kureyon


Bobbled Tam in Jaeger Matchmaker Merino DK

Montego Bay Scarf in SWTC Bamboo

Cozy V-Neck Pullover in Brown Sheep Prairie Silks
I have also furthered my effort by adding stash yarns to projects in my Ravelry queue, but I know it will be harder to stick to them if I have not physically put yarn and pattern together.

We'll see how it goes....

Before I forget, here are two FOs from October.

Kitty Hat, as part of Abe's cat costume, modeled here by Abe sitting with his brother the vampire.
I knit this in just a few hours using Caron Simply Soft Eco, which is partially made of recycled plastic bottles. According to the label, 10 skeins=6 plastic bottles saved from landfills. I'll need to see how the hat wears before making a larger project, but the alleged environmentally-friendliness of this yarn may just make me less of an acrylic snob.

Here is a better shot of the ears and the mischievous expression.


and Cable Beret from Debbie Bliss Knitting Magazine

I made this from Elsebeth Lavold Angora which I was surprised to find for a great price at Tuesday Morning. It is extremely soft, but I am glad I did a hat instead of a scarf. I think the fuzziness would be annoying near the mouth, whereas it feels cozy and warm on the head.
This was a quick, enjoyable project, and I can see making more of them.

Next time I'll probably use a smoother yarn, and maybe do fewer repeats so there's not quite such a paunch in the back.

And now, back to my baskets and stash!

Birthday Scarf

My good friend and colleague Carl just celebrated his 60th birthday (though looking at him you would think he was 50 or younger!). I found this beautiful muted teal color of Mission Falls Wool, and broke out my Cables Untangled for the reversible cable scarf pattern. The yarn is a pleasure to knit with, and the cables breezed by without a cable needle to get in the way.

Here is the recipient modeling his new scarf. He told me that he has never worn a scarf before, but that he loves it!



Notice the artwork in the background. The photo was taken by Carl's wife, Marilyn, who happens to be a wonderful artist. Marilyn did some encaustic paintings of me and G, and she has graciously agreed to barter with me - paintings for a knitted item. More on that when I have figured out what I am making for her!

For those of you who live in the DC Area, Carl and I will be performing at the Embassy of the Czech Republic on November 20. More information can be found at dcmusicaviva.org. Here is the flyer for the concert.



Now I am off to check on the election. Go Obama!