More about markers!

Didn’t get much knitting done on my sock since yesterday.  I’m curious to see if it stretches as much as the pattern says.  It should stretch up to 11” in length.....wow!  I did try on the little bit I've done, I didn't think I would get my foot through the ribbing, looked small, but I did get my foot through the ribbing and it slid up my leg....so its deceiving....a knitting guest and I were sitting at the kitchen table and she and I both thought there is no way an adult foot would fit through the top, but it DOES!

 

Now, more about markers.....

 

Another plus for using markers – and I’m addressing the Magic Loop knitters here – the markers help if you (accidentally of course) pull the loop all the way through and you no longer have the much needed loop on the left side – you know what I’m talking about ?? (grin)  Well, you need only to count 11 stitches from the second maker to find the “center” to pull the loop back out!  Great trick and guess how I figured that out!

 

Let me know how your sock knitting experience is coming along. 

 

I also wanted to mention that we will be here to help you if you need it on Saturday’s from 10 -11. 

Spring Forward Socks KnitALong

The votes are in and we're knitting the "Spring Forward Socks".  The pattern is free on Knitty.com or we can print a copy at the shop for you when you buy the sock yarn.  For the KnitALong, any sock yarns you purchase will come with a 10% discounted price!

I'm using a wonderful yarn made by Lang Yarns.  It's Jawoll Magic (75% new wool 25% nylon).  It is self striping and has an absolutely beautiful colorchange.  I chose a darker color to wear with jeans (dark blue, purple, pink and black combination).  I also treated myself to the Skacel Addi SockRocket needles - love em!  The best sock needles I've used.  I'm using the Magic Loop method of knitting.

I've just start the socks.  I'm past the ribbing and have started the pattern.  My thoughts:  I like the look of the twisted knit stitch in the ribbing.  Looks nice. The pattern is simple enough for the enthusiastic beginner however I find the teeny tiny yarn (that likes to hug itself) and the teeny tiny needles (size 1) a bit challenging.  When I have to back up (yes, I have to tink just like everyone else : ) ) the ssk's and K2tog's like to stick together.  To rip out my knitting is pretty gruesome because of the hanging together of the stitches.  TIP: When knitting 2 tog, be careful that both stitches are completed. With tiny stitches it's pretty easy to miss one!

The pattern is a repeat of 11stitches.  I HIGHLY recommend placing markers after each 11 stitch pattern repeat (especially if you're using a darker yarn like I am).  The markers are helpful in several ways (and with the Magic Loop method you only need 4 markers for this pattern).  It's easier to count in segments of 11 stitches instead of finishing 1/2 row (if using Magic Loop) and finding out you're one stitch short or over.  Placing a marker at the end of each pattern repeat is good practice especially when the stitches are hard to see.  So, if you do make a mistake (and you probably will at some point) you will know which 11 stitch pattern repeat is in error.

More about markers and knitting the Magic Loop method tomorrow!  Jane

Yarn Tasting!!

Come join us this Thursday evening, March 8th for a yarn tasting! 

Our representative, Cynthia Frank, for Cascade will be joining us at the Knook with EVERY yarn displayed that Cascade offers (there are about 70). 

A yarn tasting is really fun and very worthwhile because you can touch and feel all the yarns before you decide.  We can always order any yarn that you see and love! 

Come visit us and Cynthia from 5-7pm.

Also, don't forget about our Customer Appreciation Sale going on now until the end of the Month.  There are over 25 yarns that are marked down by 25% to 40%!  Plus, we have tons of new yarns you'll want to check out!

Blog kick off!

We are branching out to a new sphere to keep you informed of the funnest, latest, and greatest activities happening at the Knook with the kick off of our blog! It is going to be fun sharing some of the wonderful projects that people are working on.  We'd love to hear your ideas of what you're interested in doing and what you like about the Knook.  Feel free to join us on Thursday evenings for some relaxation and laughter during our open knit night (until 8pm).
Watch for forthcoming pictures of our felted bag class, which included an interesting trip to our local laundry mat.  So much fun and very entertaining!!