EWESPECIAL

"Spoils" from Spin-in!

2012-02-12T11:38:00.000-07:00

One of the best things about January Spin-in is the opportunity to have all the vendors right in the same room with you! Of course, it is not very cost effective if you are planning to save your money! The fibers and yarns are right there to stare you in the face every single day.........We can only resist for so long before pulling out the old pocket book and taking the plunge. Ohh, so many lovely colors and great variety of fibers right at your finger tips. What we purchased was only from a small portion of the vendors present.

String Theory Colorworks --Color strips are different for each skein.

Lorna Laces yarn from Weaver's Corner in Baton Rouge had a super discount--so had to purchase several skeins for various projects.

Loved this cotton/cashmere blend--such a lovely yellow color.

Red never shows up right with photos--this is cotton/merino blend--great spinning! These slivers came from a new vendor at spin-in--love those newbies!

Daily Fibers was a second year vendor-just couldn't reist this BFL, which is the new BFF in the spinning world.

This silk/wool blend comes from the creative mind & hands of Dicentra Designs. You can also find her on Facebook. These fibers are a real dream to spin.

River's Edge Fiber Arts had this lovely overdyed BFL (looks more purple in photo than it is). The orginal was oatmeal BFL wool.

Uncommon Threads of Palm Harbor, FL had this silk, wool, silver fiber--just right for our 2013 anniversary--25 years of spin-in! Now what will we produce with this silver/wool roving--hmmm, it will need to be very special. Put the thinking cap on--we do have a few months to ponder............

Another Day--

2012-02-02T09:36:00.000-07:00

It's another beautiful day on the Florida sea shore! Good Morning to us! We peek outside our tenth floor condo to be greeted by bright sunrise--and we are ready for another full day of fun activities!

The morning sun hits building #2 and we have clear skies after some foggy dreary days. But, who cares? We're inside enjoying 2012 Spin-in............

We head downstairs to the ballroom and find it empty--of participants. It's a chance for us to catch a quick snapshot of all the wheels void of treadling.

Wow! so many empty chairs and but empty bobbins.

Vendors have lovely rovings to sell.

What great colors and fibers to spin!

It's so hard to choose which one to begin with.

During the day we had a parade of shawls......................................

Here they come--all different colors and fibers--some handspun, some not.

Some woven, some knitted, some crocheted--all very creative patterns.

Some take years to complete while others are instant creations!

colorful gamp--woven, not handspun though--but, not problem with us. It's a definite show piece.

First handspun woven into wonderful wrap.

Shawlettes, shawls, cowls, neck wear of any size is welcome in the parade.

Proud owners of lovelies--what a great bunch of folks! Looking forward to 2013......................

Shawls, Fibers and Yarns!

2012-01-28T05:45:00.000-07:00

Here we go--second day of spin-in! Let's take a walk through some of the shawls, fibers being spun and yarns!

And for the next photo--don't ask!!

Shawl We Dance!

2012-01-27T05:43:00.000-07:00

The time has arrived! We are nestled in our conference center and glad to be here. Even though the weather hasn't been cooperative, we are inside and all is well!

This is the view from out tenth floor condo--we have a gulf view if you look hard. But, this morning the fog covered most of the view.

The ballroom is empty except for chairs as the vendors move in their wares.

A new vendor, Colorful String Theory, with new baby in tow--nothing keeps these gals away from the event.

Okay, we are getting there!

Here are two other vendors sitting up--Gale's Art and Funny Face.

What's in all those bags?

The door prize tickets are ready and waiting for participants to arrive........................stay tuned.

A Walk on the Beach

2012-01-22T06:43:00.000-07:00

It is our annual trip to the seaside. The weather is perfect. The sky is blue. The water reflects with slight ripples as the waves crash on shore.

So, we take a walk on the beach--our feet crunch over the white sands as our foot prints are left for only a matter of seconds.

It is calm and peaceful. The sounds of the ocean is music to your ears.

Life is good!

Ah, the creatures that wash ashore are colorful and interesting.

A small matter of replenishing the sea.

And the grains of sand move on.............................as our walk on the beach.

2012-01-17T14:34:00.001-07:00

Cleaning closets and storage units are a good thing! There are all sorts of treasures just waiting to be discovered. Well, actually, these 'treasures' were stored many moons ago and somehow, the old brain just forgot about them. You know the saying--"out of sight, out of mind"! Yeah, that's what happens.

This was just a plain white scarf--bought on a trip to China and it languished away out of sight for a long time. Then when it was time to search for another item, lo and behold, this little bundle appeared--all neatly tied and ready to be dyed. Even forgot what the search was looking for in the first place once we discovered this bundle.

Also buried deep in the drawer was this assortment of dyes--most likely bought at quilt festival after seeing a demo--nothing like impulse buying! At least, the dyes weren't all dried up and unusable.

Nice colors for silk--instant dyes too! So, we took the little silk bundle and wet it with the dyes. A little tad here, a little dap there and we have this.......................

Doesn't look like much to speak of in this state, but once it was open up completely.........

The design appeared! Whoa, looks like a kaleidoscope! and it makes us look like a real artist.

Up close and personal--a real winner in any book and so easy. Now, to find the other silk scarves--where are they? Must be in another storage bin.

And on the needles--another Stephen West treat from his latest venture--a shawl of the month club. This is January's pattern--Arroway. The black is malabrigo yarn and the multi color is koigu--both yarns were in the stash basket. And easy to find!

The glasses are modeling the mystery sock pattern--way cool pattern! The heel is turned and the instep is complete; just waiting on step #4. Heading off to check out the other storage bins for more treasures.............................see you later.

And We're OFF!!

2012-01-13T08:52:00.000-07:00

And we are charging around the back bend and coming on strong...................oh, wait that's a horse race, not the race to finish up some UFO's. But, we are out of the gate and running.

Why is it we never start working on a project until the date is right upon us?? It's Valentine Day soon--very soon! So, cutting hearts from freezer paper............

Ironing those hearts onto red & pink fabric to make this delightful wall hanging.

A bouquet of hearts-- Pattern in the latest issue of McCall's Quilting Magazine.

We are in RED mode and continuing some redwork stitchery. We have three more to stitch just like this one.

And we finished knitting this shawl from Stephen West Designs. This is one of the five patterns that Stephen is offering through his shawl club via Ravelry. We opted for the PDF version, thinking we could use up some of our stash. This yarn was handspun. The pattern doesn't show up very well with this yarn so there might be another one in our future using different yarns.

And Oh My Gosh! Just couldn't resist this funky chicken from Fat Cat Patterns! Just love these chicks! This is Sindy's 2012 BOM--this is going to be fun. Luckily, we are using stash fabrics. Well, we completely forgot about finishing an UFO before beginning another UFO..........

Maybe, this will count for ticking off the UFO list--Miss Birdie Stitches. We are putting on the borders and readying for quilting. Was so much fun to do these each month!

What do you do with mohair locks, felting needles and a silk scarf?

You felt the locks to the ends of the scarf to make an interesting fringe! More scarves in our future?? It's a good possibility!! This was quick and simple--just had to find the felting needles and that we did at Joann Fabrics --used 50% off coupon.
Back to the studio to wrap up a couple more UFO's......................

Roc Day--Louisiana Style!

2012-01-09T10:43:00.001-07:00

We are traveling back to visit several of our 'old' fiber friends in Louisiana. It is the traditional Roc Day or St Distaff Day held January 7th. Distaff or Roc was the spindle used to spin flax or wool fibers before the invention of the spinning wheel in 1533. The flax was wound around a short staff known as the distaff, which was fastened at the woman's waist by her girdle or tucked under her arm. When women visited each other, they often carried their distaff and spindle with them to occupy them as they chatted. It is sometimes called 'Roc' from the German word rocken, which describes the spinning apparatus.

Pulling pranks was common during the olden days and we still do those light hearted pranks these days, as the photo shows! Dear friends, Mary & Mary Lynn, are enjoying their conversation while young spinner does her best to create havoc!

Distaff Day was originally celebrated in England and other European countries but in our country we encompass all nationalities as represented by Chotima from Thailand-spinning away on her Magacraft wheel.

Her spinning fiber of choice is this blended merino wool/silk blend from Weaver's Corner.

This is her latest finished scarf--an overshot with silk warp and handspun wool/silk weft--lovely lightweight and absolutely beautiful! The pattern is Star of Bethlehem.

Such fine work! Not only is she an excellent spinner, she is an excellent weaver!

Okay, it's not handspun, but this fabric on a bolt speaks volumnes for outstanding weaving!

It was a small gathering with a few vendors, but the day wasn't a lost cause--many to speak with and see what was going on their wheel.

A delightful smile--always! Cecile!

What is Saori Weaving? "Saori is an art of weaving by hand that is dedicated to free expression and self-development for everyone, regardless of physical or mental ability, age, or artistic aptitude. Saori weaving is pure improvisation from the heart, with no premeditated pattern in mind. Colors unfold, designs emerge, and beauty blooms directly from the genius of each unique individual working in harmony with loom, thread, and the spark of the moment. Saori is a profound inner journey, yet we can enjoy it socially, working alongside others. We can also create clothing, bags, tapestries, and many useful items that can be appreciated by all. Saori is fun, and anyone can do it!" from the website of Saoriworcester

Warps come prepared for the loom so Albion is tieing on the ends to pull through another warp for Cecile to weave on. This is a simple operated loom with only two harnesses.

We visit with Bev from New Orleans who is wearing a lovely shawl--she generously shared the free pattern. The shawl pin is an added attraction.

An effective use of multi colored yarns such as Noro or as Bev used Lion brand’s Amazing yarn.

Charkha??

Thirsty handspun brown/green cotton towels by Chotima.

A good use of handspun wool--fulled and ready to wear!
It was a good day to visit with old friends and make new friends in the fiber world.

Adding Color to the New Year

2012-01-04T07:54:00.000-07:00

The Westside Weavers group gathered and spent the better part of the morning discussing our holiday activities. Several of the members had taken journeys to other parts of the country

Scharine took a camping trip to Big Bend, Texas and also journeyed into Mexico where she found these brightly colored textiles. We thought most likely these textiles were woven in central Mexico.

But, ahh the bright colors that pop!

This small piece brought back fond childhood memories of the old serapes that we purchased. She had also bought several larger rugs made from cotton with the same bright colors.

We met in the home of Betty, who is a wonderful jewelry maker. All around her house you see marvelous bead collections.

Connie was showing more of her wonderful textiles that she purchased on a recent trip to SE Asia. This was a small handbag featuring ikat woven panels.

We all marveled at the packaging for the items she bought. This was a basket filled with spices.

This indigo dyed silk piece was a marvel--goose-eye weave structure with ikat design. We discussed whether this was printed or stamped on after the woven fabric was completed.

This silk ikat piece was packaged in the woven basket with a saying and a small orgami bird was added as a prize.

Rosemary gave herself a felted gift from the hands of Chad Alice Hagen.

Penny showed her 'sample'! Some sample! It was large woven rug, linen warp set at 4 epi and the weft is core spun wool--some on jute, some on cotton cord. Great rug!
Okay, meeting adjourned--let's eat!

RESOLUTIONS--NOT!!

2012-01-01T10:28:00.000-07:00

It's January first once again and as most will make some sort of resolution to begin their new year, we are NOT going there! It isn't that we will not keep resolutions (it's always a mind set anyway), it just means we are being lazy...........................But, we did finish up the 'old' year with at least one project.

The Advent Scarf from Ravelry was 24 days of knitting a different lace pattern each day--well, of course, there was no way we could do all 24 patterns. And if you have been reading past blog posts, you will see that we ran out of handspun and just added white to continue. And then the other day, the scarf hit the dye pot--to make the scarf sort of uniform.

The idea - we must say- it was a clever idea; but we think all our ideas are clever :-) -was to drop the scarf into dye--doesn't that make everything better? Going through the dye containers we found small amount of blue. Most of the blues were depleted during the November dye day. Okay--this has got to work , right??

To our eyes, this Advent scarf looks very cool! Okay, so it isn't quite uniform but it is said (by whom and how often, we don't know) that all shades of one color work together. Yes, it looks great and now we have a lovely scarf to wear on a cold day.

The new year always brings time to clean out the closets--okay, must fess up here--had to clean up the sewing room and put things away before Christmas as we had to use the room for sleeping. It's amazing what you find when you put things away into bins that haven't been open in months! We found these handspun silk singles that were natural dyed many moons ago--looks like we never finished winding them on bobbins. Okay, that's a good thing to do while watching bowl games.

And we found The Teddy Bear! He wasn't hiding too badly--just covered up with odds and ends of other 'stuff'! He's knit from bits and pieces of hand spun wool, natural dyed--ain't he cute??

Oh for goodness sake! Hidden behind the chest was the bag containing this hooked rug--hate to say when it was begun, but it's also handspun and dyed wools--okay, we pulled it out and now we can finish up the last few inches. Why didn't we finish it up in the first place? Go figure!!

And looking for a requested book for a friend, we noticed our lazy animals lounging in the large split oak basket--Okay guys! wake up! it's time for you to come out and play--all handspun, some handwoven, a few knit! Wonders oh wonders--the things you finally see again when you clean up a space!!
Okay, no resolutions here, but we are working to finish up some UFOs--that's a good thing!

The LULL

2011-12-27T10:57:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's that time again- anticipation followed with the big celebration, then the New Year. We are in the LULL.............................................

To cause to sleep or rest; soothe or calm.

2. To deceive into trustfulness:

v.intr.

To become calm.

1. A relatively calm interval, as in a storm.

2. An interval of lessened activity: a lull in sales

There isn't time to begin a new project or time to finish an UFO--we are just in the waiting period till the clock strikes midnight on December 31st and we charge into a new beginning.

Thank you my friends for visiting my blog. Thank you for just being you. We'll be back soon with new adventures, new themes, new thoughts, different UFO's to save for 2013. Onward we go....................................

Weaver's Party!!

2011-12-20T07:27:00.000-07:00

Our weaver groups are partying hardy!! One last blast before we close out the year. It's a merry time of the year--a chance to let our warps hang down and not worry about finishing that little bit of hemming.

Scharine, Ryukyu Heritage Textiles, is showing off her latest commission. She is wearing one of her lovely woven shawls.

She has a Japanese ancestry and is learning the ways of the old world. This piece is to be used with a chess set--light silk fabric.

Our hostess for the day, Tracy owns Lone Star Loom Room/Nordic Studio and has recently returned from a two year stint in Singapore. She welcomed us to her new home. Everyone had to see her studio space and view what's on the loom!

Computer driven Megado loom by Louet

Towels at their finest!

Her movable loom bench by Walter Turpening is not only function but a work of art.

And on the loom in her bedroom--wonderful hand painted warp.

Two members, Karen and Gerry, admire the work.

These wooden weight hangers sure look prettier than water bottles!

Okay, enough of that stuff--let's head to the gifts to open! Our group knows each other so well we went to paper bags years ago to hide the identify of the giver. Every gift is a winner and no stealing allowed!!

Fall Birthday Celebration!!

2011-12-15T15:24:00.000-07:00

Oh Happy Days! It was a great day for celebrating--fall birthdays and the holidays too. We were delighted to enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by our hostess Linda (December birthday girl) and Brenda brought not one but two cakes.

Here we have Sandy (with coffee cup in hand), Debby (stitching away on her quilt) and Jane (September birthday gal). Rose, whose birthday is in November was away attending her brother's funeral. We send our best wishes to Rose and her family.

Jane, next to Judy C and Karen working feverishly on the binding of her French Braid quilt.

Karen and to her left Camilla (our expat 'mother--she keeps us up to date on activities and locations) Thanks Camilla!! Welcome back to our fold after a stent in Mexico.

Linda, our hostess was stitching on her gift for granddaughter--a soft mattress to fill a generation handed down doll bed. What a marvelous gift!

Annette with her sewing station all set up--ready to sew on her latest top. Annette was our 'treasurer/gift buyer'. Thanks Annette! We always enjoy seeing your smiling face!

Annette is so organized with her sewing plan.

And here is the finished block.......................

Brenda is beaming for two reasons--she is learning how to use an early Christmas gift from hubby--a rotary blade sharpener.

And the second reason for the big smile--a new granddaughter expected Spring, 2012. Brenda is planning her baby quilt with this selection and pattern.

Camilla is stitching down the binding on this quilt for her church--love the colors.

Oh my! what is this lovely creature? French Braid in all its glory! What wonderful color choices.

And the artist behind this masterpiece is Karen! Good job Karen!!

A nice quilting choice too.

Brenda has finished her French Braid--smashing!!

Debby's quilt--nice pleasing colors.

Do we have good quilters in our group or what??!! Thanks to Sandy and Judy M.

Look what was found in the back bedroom--what a lovely quilt!

This was found on the back bed--just waiting for the final touches. Doesn't matter if it's a birthday celebration, a Christmas party or just plain gathering--any day spent with this bunch of ladies is a good day!

Head Gear

2011-12-12T07:11:00.000-07:00

We pressed Green Head into action again. She had been lazy and just hangin' out for the past few weeks. Our hands had been knitting on the 24 days of Advent and ignoring the lovely hats that had also been knitted recently...........so now, we present two hats from the November archives!

This first hat was a mystery knit along with one of our favorite hat designers.. Woolly Wormhead. Her patterns are as unique as she is. Here is 'green head' modeling handspun wool (Kermit) from Skyloom Weavers dyeing hands. The hat pattern was mystery A but now has the name of Corella. With the hat are the fingerless gloves from October mystery.

This was a nice fiber to spin--This BFL (blue face Leicester) has become my BFF!!

The other mystery (WW offers two mystery patterns at a remarkable price during her yearly KAL) was Rubbish Mojitos. This is not handspun but some sock yarn that had been languishing around the stash pile. Sure, made a nice hat.

The swirls are just perfect! Someone will enjoy wearing this lovely hat! Okay, now back to our regularly scheduled knitting..........................................day 12 of Advent scarf.

Plan B..............................

2011-12-08T08:28:00.000-07:00

Here we are--with plan B for the 24 days of Advent scarf instructions. There is just one more small ball of handspun yarn to use in this scarf so we had to come up with plan B--quickly! Search, search the stash closet and what did we find? No blue wool yarn! Real bummer! But, there were several skeins of white yarns! Yes, white! and it doesn't really matter if the blue in the middle matches the blue on the end. All different thoughts are running through the old brain---how to incorporate these two handspun blue yarns with a different yarn and white, no less. Ah, a 'brilliant' thought races across the waves--why not dye the white yarn blue? Well, of course, the perfect solution. One small problem--the white yarn is not handspun. Then--"who cares whether it's handspun or not?" We can always rationalize.

Problem solved! We'll dye the white yarn blue--oops! another small problem--we are ready to knit the next day and we don't want to fall behind in the patterns.

Can't wait! Must knit! And knit we did! just attach the white yarn and continue on and as the knitting progresses, the thought process took over again--we'll use the other ball of handspun for the last of the patterns so the blues will be on the opposite ends of the scarf! Yes, perfect! And then, we'll dye the whole scarf blue!! We are so smart!!

We are on day 8--keeping up so far but the weekend rolls around and we are journeying away--hard to knit when you can't download the pattern, but we'll find a way--even if we have to sit in front of the PC all night with the instructions! or chart it ourselves with pen & paper row by row. By golly, we plan to keep on schedule. Everything else can go by the wayside, except

when we sit down with a cup of tea to paw over this magazine. Have you seen this? It wasn't easy to find--Barnes & Nobel was sold out; Jo-Ann's was sold out (guess everyone used their 50% 0ff coupon to buy). Finally, we found a copy at Books a Million. It's a great read and the patterns........................oh, well, those will have to wait till December 26th.

Simple sayings for wonderful times! These Back Door quilt series are quick to make--unless it sits on your sewing table waiting to be quilted and bound. This one will fit nicely into January decor--so there is plenty of time to finish it up--right?? Off to knit Day 8!

Okay--It's December Already!

2011-12-05T12:52:00.001-07:00

We always think December will take 11 months to return but somehow it was just yesterday and here it is again!! Where does the time go? And the older you get, the quicker the time flies--something just not right about that. Anyway, you think you'll be ready when the holidays roll round--never. It's like we are caught off guard............................

It's the day after Thanksgiving, the cool front has brought some much needed rain and a biting north wind so it's time to Christmas tree shop--we opt for a real tree; even though hubby keeps pointing to the 'fake' ones.

Well, what if we wanted the tree placed on the stand crooked??!!

Love that Ravelry! and the brilliant designers that share their knowledge--here is the return of Advent Calendar Scarf--a pattern a day for 24 days! Try to keep up with this. Here is day one--looking good so far but of course, it's only the first day. The yarn is handspun from River's Edge Fiber Arts--a soft lofty merino--one small problem though--won't be enough to finish out the scarf so plan B swings into action.............................only we have to think of a plan B!

December first brought forth the celebration of the birth of our first grandchild--who just happens to turn 21 this December first--Happy Birthday dear granddaughter!

Okay, we thought, just thought, we could keep up with this weekly mystery QAL from Bonnie Hunter. Here is the Orca mystery part one--224 2.5" half Quarter Square Triangles! Only four have been squared up, just 222 more to go.........................

It's first Friday and you can hop over to The Painted Quilt blog and download this stitching pattern--Kaaren made a cute pillow with her design. Thanks to all these generous people who are willing to give of themselves.......................Happy Holidays to us!

Okay, we're kept up with the pattern so far--finished is day 4 and day 5 is downloaded--just have to think quick---what yarn to use now that we've run out the handspun?

Painted Churches

2011-11-30T07:52:00.000-07:00

Painted Churches of Texas not only means the churches are painted on the outside but inside as well. This is a great tour of lovely churches, where worshippers can still kneel and pray weekly. Their doors are always open to the beauty of the brush. We took a short trip to visit a few of these marvels.

First stop was at High Hill, just a short drive from Schulenberg.

The doors are open on this Sunday to welcome all comers to view.

Through these swinging doors you can enter into the halls of peace.

The first view from the back is awesome, to say the least!

Even the statures have that painted artistic touch.

No--not stain glass, but painted windows.

Ahh, the arches in each alcove takes you to a wonderful setting.

Notice the columns--they are painted too.

And the pulpit holds lessons from our Lord and Master.

Onto our next stop--just a quiet out of the way little town where this white church sits.

Prayers aloft!

Once again, painted windows--although simple in style, mighty in looks.

The Altar.................

No words can describe this setting; feast with your eyes.

Our next visit was to the tiny town of Dubina. From a distance on our drive down the country lanes we can see the steeple.

Maybe not as elaborate as some of the painted churches, this quiet location is a restful respite from the daily grind.

It was here that we met others who were taking the journey. In our conversation they told us about other painted churches that were off grid. Now, for our next trip we'll take that side drive off the major interstate to find that peaceful painted church.

Dyeing to Color!!

2011-11-25T10:13:00.000-07:00

The One Pot Rainbow Dyeing workshop at Kid 'n Ewe & Llamas Too featured some really great colors from the dyeing pots. What a fun two days of dyeing we had and colors galore were pulled from the pot.

Using only three color choices, this great combination of color burst forth in this one pot.

Using a camera lets the participant see where the powder hasn't dissolved yet.

This dyer used several shades of red to achieve this bright colorway.

Looking like the three witches from "Macbeth", the gals are marveling over the color blends.

Only two dyes were used in this pot. You can still where the powder needs to be dissolved.

One of the trees was adorned with dyed wool and mohair fiber.

Lovely shades of blue and lavendar..........

Taking a break to visit one of the local wineries. This one, Sister Creeks in Sisterdale, uses 1880's cotton gin as their winery base. Here you can take a self guided tour, then sip samples of their blended wines.

We are back to day two of the one pot dyeing workshop. First pot is ready with dye powder--just a little dissolving is required.

What great color combination this is!

We have a chance to make a blend of colors in one pot dyeing method.

These gals couldn't resist spinning some of their dried fiber.

Brillant!

Subdued!

Loving these colors! It was a fun dyed filled two days. Now, waiting to see the final results from the participants.....................................

Fiber to Fashion

2011-11-21T12:51:00.000-07:00

Fiber to Fashion or Sheep to Shawl--doesn't really matter what title you give this competition
it's all good! Here we are back at Kid 'n Ewe & Llamas Too to give an overview of those finished items from the morning session.

Finished! except for the final hem stitching--makes for a lovely shawl. This group used fibacconi series for the stripes.

Off the loom--great look with natural fiber.

Lovely deep twill pattern...............

This group started their loom off right with a different pattern than most--huck lace.

Seems twill was a favorite among the weavers. Each team could have their loom pre-threaded to their pattern and ready to pull through the warp...............

Interesting weave structure................the saying is always "it takes 11 spinners to keep one weaver busy".

Anyone for a rigid heddle weaving?

And a new weaver takes her turn at the treadles as spinners tromp their wheels to produce more spun fiber. This is a great way for teams to learn to work together.

We're Not Kiddin'........................

2011-11-16T08:20:00.001-07:00

Nope--we're not kiddin' about Kid 'n Ewe & Llamas Too--a three day conference filled with fiber happenings. This was our first visit to the 23rd year of this festival in the small Hill Country town of Boerne, Texas.

This wheel display was advertising Mo Ranch, located west of Austin. A place to regroup with friends and family.

The three metal buildings hosted a variety of vendors with their fiber wares.

Spun fiber, unspun fiber and completed fiber!

Colors galore with vendors from far and near.

And let's not forget the animal barns as well.

Spinning groups relaxing, chatting and treadling luscious fiber such as this silk.

Now, which one to choose?

And this vendor was very clever with their display--a salad buffet of solar dyed mohair locks.

And oh, the people you meet--willing to share and discuss their wearables--felted wool with mohair locks fringe.

And sparkly woven shawls & carded batts ready for the felting machine.

And let's not forget the ongoing classes like this back strap weaving.............

Or rigid heddle weaving........................

Or needle felting...................

Here is that felting machine working its magic......................

And you can't have a festival without ribbons--ribbons for prize fleece.............

And ribbons for finished fiber pieces.............................more later on the festival--so much to cover in such a short period of time. Next blog we'll feature the one pot dyeing workshop we taught and the sheep to shawl competition. See you soon........................

GRAND OPENING!!

2011-11-14T10:48:00.000-07:00

It was the perfect day! The temperature was just right! The sky was blue with fluffy clouds rolling around! It was the grand opening for a new venture. It was the opening day for Texas Quilt Museum, in La Grange, Texas. This is a small town close to Austin, San Antonio and Houston. What an event--ribbon cutting ceremony and quilters.............................

Those who came from far and near just to attend this unique opening. The building has been remodeled and sits humbly on Colorado Street, near the county courthouse.

Even the 'quilt' car took center stage in front of the doors.

Off to the side of the exit door, you could purchase the publication Lone Stars III: A Legacy of Texas Quilts, 1986-2012, written by Museum Co-Founders and Co-Directors Karey Patterson Bresenhan and Nancy O’Bryant Puentes, and published by the University of Texas Press.

The line is long but hop to the back we did. It was a short wait till we made it to the front door. While waiting you can visit with so many interesting quilters. The two gals behind us were from Bastrop, TX (recently devastated by wild fires). The couple in front were recent transplants to the community.

The west side of the building boasted wonderful paintings of Texas quilt designs. On display at this time until mid January, 2012 are 62 quilts.

No photos inside please! So hurriedly, we snapped this photo before we crossed the threshold. Lovely exhibit space and although there were many to view the Texas quilts on display, the crowd moved easily through the galleries. White glove docents were on hand to turn to the backside if you so deemed to see the stitching up close. One small quilt that took our fancy had unusual Texas print backing--one never seen before. One of the docents commented that Moda Fabric personnel were on hand earlier in the week to view this outstanding print--so, is it possible we'll have a copy of this fabric in our hot little hands soon?
If you have a chance to pass near or through central Texas, pause in La Grange to visit Texas Museum of Quilts, you won't be disappointed.

Show-Offs!

2011-11-12T10:46:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, the final day of the International Quilt Festival, our talented group of expatchers gathered for a festive pot-luck dinner and a chance to show-off their creations from the past few months.

Linda begun the journey with her Bali-pops wall hanging--fantastic! She says this one will be a 'winner' next summer at the Kansas local county fair and we all agree!

Her next feature was this wonderful panel hanging--finished just in time for the holidays.

We all really like this quilt with it's cheerful yellow backing--someone's bed will enjoy this draped over it.

Karen, sheepishly, said she only brought one small 'Binky' show. But, it's a dandy--made from minki fabric--soft and cuddly.

Debby was up next--what a fantastic sampler and the colors are just so right!

Debby was displaying her table runners--'simple', she remarks.

Debby whips out another lovely table runner to display.

Are we on your gifting list for one of these wonderful runners?

And she just kept pulling them out of her quilt bag.................

Annette was ready to show her churn dash block quilt and because of color placement in each block--she got a different look--way to go, Annette!

And this one is just so striking--the golden color is bee fabric.

This one she is hand quilting.. she found the perfect pattern at quilt market for her corners.

Camilla had her French Braid top--gee whiz, what color combination!

And we welcomed Judy M's friend, Marsha, to the gathering. Marsha was once a non quilter, but Judy rubbed off on her and here is a 'mystery' pattern that Marsha has recently completed.

Okay--Marsha--you are a quilter now! What a perfect evening! And we look forward to 2012 get together so we can share our 2011 adventures.

There Is More To See And Do Than Just Look at Quilts

2011-11-06T16:14:00.000-07:00

Other blogs will feature photos of the winning quilts from International Quilt Festival, so let's see what else there is to do and see besides quilts...............

We arrive early! And we do mean early.......before the buses and crowds arrive. The sky is just warming to the sunrise and downtown hotels and offices are just beginning to wake up.

In three hours time, we'll walk through one of these red doors and enter the massive convention center and all the fiber happenings. A worker busys herself cleaning the portal windows.

We'll travel upstairs to the second floor and find the Starbucks.

This booth greets you just as you arrive on the second floor--want to volunteer or be a show assistant--here's your chance.

There are many others just waiting for you to approach them--they look rested and ready to answer your questions.

The bulletin boards contain all messages and inquiries--it was here several years ago we pulled one of these notes to form a pen pal friendship with an English gal.

It's a brisk wind blowing our flags this morning and through the large front windows we can look out into the world as we enjoy the quilt world.

Upon the third floor, where all classrooms are, we can shop for supplies for our workshops if we forgot something necessary.

Or you can attend a lecture--this morning we are sitting in on a lecture about color. We will also enhance our brain as we wait for the opening of the market and first floor activities.

Oh, a fairly large crowd decide to do the same thing!

Traveling back down to the second floor, we can peek through the large windows to the floor below........................what's going on down there?

Yes! It's the vendor section of festival! Let's synchronize our plans and decide what vendors to hit first...............................because when you have over 700 vendors, you must have a plan!

Oh, there is another informational board--what great ideas--if only, we had a month here instead of just three days.

Here's a schedule of workshops and classes--see if any are open for registation.

Want to be a teacher's pet? These classes are available and need assistance.

Finally, it's time for the downstairs doors to open.....but wait! there is such a long line to go down and this crowd is being paced--just a few at a time.

A short walk down to the next down-a-later and few people are heading that way--perfect!

Up front and personal is the IQA (International Quilt Association) booth.

On the quilt side, we find a variety of activities and events. Here is the 4-H quilt challenge area.

And Cancer coats display.

Each coat has a story to tell of surviving a dreaded disease.

And the SuperShuttle Quilt Challenge is behind this information signage.

Want to rest your feet for awhile while you learn something? Then take a few minutes to enjoy a free lecture in this area.

"Quilts of Valor" booth

Pink Ribbon gives you the inside 'scoop'.

Tucked back on the west side of Hall E are American Sewing Guild tables.

Quilts just waiting for those quilting hands--sit awhile and place a few stitches.

Project Linus hosts an area where you can sit and sew up a small quilt for needy children.

And if you don't know how to quilt or sew, here's the booth for you.

The Guild of Greater Houston members are willing to assist you. These are just a few of the booths awaiting your visit--place a bid in a silent auction; buy a small quilt for Alzheimer research; stop to see doll quilts & their dolls, a gypsy doll challenge, other guild challenges, wearable art.................oh, my so much, so little time!

Okay, we've made a walk through the educational booths and now we confront the map--which way to go..................................?

There are resting spots throughout the halls if you need a break for your weary bones and feet. There is even a husband's lounge, complete with big screen TV and easy recliners.

First aide is readily available--

Tired and weary but still want to go on? Then rent a electric scooter to finish out the day. We just might need that first aide if one of these scooters runs into us along our venture through the crowded aisles.

"Make It University"--make it and take it! What wonders can we create in this section?

And before we head out the door, we stop to browse at the pin collection from past quilt festivals......................yes, we have that one, that one, that one and so on and so on. After hours of viewing wonderful contemporary, artful and traditional fiber masterpieces, we take our tired bones the last few steps to the car. Oh, yes, there are the times when you are walking the aisles and you bump into someone who turns out to be an old friend from a past life--ahhhh, life is good at the quilt festival.

Can we say--WSW or Westside Weavers???!!

2011-11-03T14:29:00.000-06:00

The WSW (Westside Weavers) meetings are always a treat--but, when one of the members returns to our fold from a summer away, it's a double treat. She brings all the summer 'goodies' for show & tell. And this group has a method to their madness--around the circle we go--anything you have to show or tell, go for it when it comes to your turn.

Our wayward traveler, Rosemary, has brought the latest issue of Handwoven magazine, which has an article about her summer guild and their indigo dyeing project.

The magazine also has an article about ply spliting by Louise French, who created this lovely neck wear piece that Rosemary purchased at one of the festivals she attended.

Rosemary is modeling her felt project from a summer workshop--felting on a ball!

What a darling hat! and only Rosemary can wear something this chic and really look good!

A wonderful doll was another purchase by Rosemary.

Briar Rose Yarns, hand painted yarns at the max!

And Rosemary was weaving--look at these block weave mug mats.................

And during one state conferences, Rosemary took a workshop on warp painting, so here are the results.................

Blue with a splash of red......................

And what clever fringe--

Nice drape and handle in this scarf....................

Another super purchase--a spinners basket with a place for your spindle...split oak made by Susan Preuss

Now we move onto Penny Nelson's handspun boucle--what a great funky yarn!

And Penny's hand models her wonderful cable mitt--note: knit with two needles!! Hope pattern comes soon!

This is a super soft cotton yarn--cozy feeling for a cold winter's day.

Dottie's turn now--she brought some of her Christmas ornaments that didn't make it to the fall guild sale (poor Dottie was under the weather and couldn't attend--but, we are richer for it) She makes these adorable hooked sheep (handwoven fabric on flip side) and cute trees made from empty yarn cones. Her things sell out fast at the sale.

And just look at these handwoven pin cushions! Dottie has outdone herself this year--but she is very creative gal and we always look forward to her creations each year.
Good meeting everyone!!

Check this out!!

2011-10-31T09:06:00.000-06:00

18 Hands Gallery is hosting a great exhibit right now --Interwoven III: Fiber Extravaganza! The third annual: "Interwoven" exhibition, showcasing the work of 30 regional fiber artists from our area. The work ranges from quilted and woven wall work to innovative wearables and even 3-D knitting!

Juried by well-known fiber artist and author, Ginny Eckley, this year's Interwoven III show includes work by Noreen Borys, Sheila Burke, Marian Carlson, Beth Dewey, Tatiana Ermakova, Lynn Sorelle Forster, Sony Hartley, Margery O Hedges, Veronica Helton, Susan Fletcher King, Scharine Kirchoff, Charlene Kolb, Linda Lewis, Leisa McCord, Carmen McGee, Janice Daniel McKeehan, Sheryl Means, Tammy Minnich, Leila Reynolds, Olga Starostina, Olga Tarasova, Sandra Elbel Taylor, Linda Thiemann, David L. Vollmer, Doerte Weber, Lynn S. Williams, Hope Wilmarth and Gerry Woodhouse as well as the work of our juror.
Pop over to the gallery but if you can not make it in person, be sure to check out their website and see photos of all the work.

A Quilters Delight

2011-10-27T08:47:00.001-06:00

This week there was a chance to visit with some favorite people--expatchers quilt group. Even though not all were in attendance (and we miss those who are absent) we enjoyed our gab and sewing morning. Always something new and different going on with this group of gals.

Judy was working on this delightful hanging designed by Pam Puyleart. This is one of many from Pam's backdoor quilt series.

and here is Judy in her new studio--where we all enjoy gathering on those special days. Thanks Judy!!

Brenda was finishing up her French Braid top. She and several of the other expatchers took a workshop recently from this book.

What smashing colors!

And a fun quilt top is going to a special little baby soon.

Who is that peeking from behind her finished quilt top? None other than our group coordinator --Camilla, who found the fabric this summer while attending Long Beach Quilt Festival. We are happy to have Camilla back after a two year stint in Mexico. Welcome Home, Camilla!!

Linda is sewing on the binding for her sweet baby quilt.

A-B-C-D--we can sing right along with the song as we feel the softness of the flannel.

The diaper pin quilting (by Sandy) adds that special touch.

Last, but not least, is Debby--finishing up the handwork on this lovely quilt that is a gift for a dear foreign exchange student (newly married) she hosted many moons ago.
Yes, we meet to gab, stitch, share, moan and complain; and even though into our lives sadness and trouble flow, we are there for each other.

Tea Time!!

2011-10-23T09:23:00.000-06:00

When the air turns a little cooler and the fall leaves begin to drop, our thoughts turn to TEA!

We have our favorite china mugs......................

Our favorite cups and saucers..........................

The favorite teapot that comes out on special occasions............................

Various sundry decorative teapots...............................

antique pots that are rarely used...................................but look good.

and then there is the standard everyday pot and the necesssary tea equipment..............

We 'heart' tea cosies! and this book is certainly one of our favorites to enjoy................

And when this pumpkin cosy pattern appeared in the Ravelry group Cosy Corner, we knew we wanted to take this Wensleydale wool from Lisa Sousa and knit up this neat little pumpkin to decorate the standard pot. Check out the weekly Blog to find your free tea cosy pattern.

Of course, this handspun has been properly 'aged' about 3-4 years; just never knew what to use it for. Now, we know.....................................because, it's TEA TIME!

Fiber Artists Exhibit at Betz Gallery

2011-10-18T08:45:00.000-06:00

HAFA group (Houston Association of Fiber Artists) Gallery Exhibit is being hosted by Betz Gallery through October 26th. If you have a chance, drop into this gallery and give these pieces a look. Here is just a few photos of what you can enjoy there.

This lovely garment greets you as you enter the front door. Entitled "Into-Me-See-The Language of Love" by Carol Watson.

Here is the back view of the garment.

Here is an interesting crochet hanging by Fermin Coronado who used various techniques to create "Sea Scape".

This piece is not on display but Fermin showed it off at the regular meeting. This scarf will be sent to be exhibited in New York as a tuxedo accessory.

"Empty Nest" by Hope Wilmarth uses various quilting and surface design tecniques for this small wall hanging.

Susan Abouhalkah wove "Yesterday's Towel-Today". It is displayed on a modern towel stand.

Ginny Eckley has a way with color and needles. This hanging is entitled "Koi Pond Under the Willow II". Her larger piece that was entered in the exhibit received Best of Show. You'll need to stop in the gallery to see that piece.

Aileen Gugenheim is exhibiting "Matrix Field", a work of layered silk, pieced collage with speciality threads and bead embellishments.

In an earlier blog, there was a photo of threads that were used to create this lovely drapey scarf. Knitted by Scharine Kirchoff and entitled "Peace Be With You", this shawl is linen paper with silk stainless steel thread.

Brenda Bunten-Schloesser has given us this creative mosaic of painted cotton, dyed and woven yarn threads and she has titled it "Light of Morning at Sunrise"

Mari Omori with "Incubator, 2011" Can you guess the what the incubator holds? This interesting display in a hundred year old wooden box or incubator holds babies of .................teabags! Yes, teabags, cotton, cotton seeds. Stop in Betz Gallery before the closing date to see other creative pieces on display.

Fiber, Fiber Everywhere!

2011-10-15T07:14:00.000-06:00

What a treat the HAFA (Houston Association of Fiber Artists) meeting was! Inspiring, inspirational and intriguing--all wrapped up in two hour meeting--lots of show and tell, happenings and activities upcoming with this group. The program was presented by Emily Davlin, a member of HAFA and shared her technique of what she called "Heat Gun Fabric". Here is the description from the newsletter: "Artistic Fabric Texturing", Emily will demonstrate how heat is used to form texture on polyester lining weight fabric by using an embossing tool. The resulting pieces have many possible applications from jewelry to wearable art garments to wall art.

She had the fabric ready for demo--sprists some water, brushed on some diluted acrylic paint (cheap paint, Emily recommends) and then apply heat! Must be cheap polyester fabric too.

And the end product--she also did the back with the heat gun for awhile. Interesting texture for sure.

Some of her samples on display. Notice the 'burn' out hole in the fabric; a result of the heat gun.

The black was outstanding!

Emily uses her 'heat gun' fabric for many fashionable wearables--purses and jewelry. She even uses the finished fabric as lining in garments to add that extra touch.

We all fell in love with "Emily's Book"--a creative gathering of thoughts and ideas.

She even uses machine stitching for more detail work. This was an interesting program and gets your "juices" flowing and thinking "What if...................." Thanks Emily for sharing your inventive way to change plain ole polyester into a useful fabric.

Weaver's Delight!

2011-10-11T08:02:00.001-06:00

When we return from our summer away, it is always the highlight of the month to return to our regular scheduled programming and the first week of the month, we are delighted to visit with not one but two weaver study groups. WSW (West Side Weavers) continue their study of waffle weave. But, before we launch into that topic...................................

Our hostess, Scharine, brings out one of the towels she purchased at the recent guild show/sell. It's a lovely towel woven by fellow weaver Marian, who just took up weaving a short time ago. She has progressed by leaps and bounds!

Okay, onto study topic at hand--waffle weave. This hand cloth is the product from Penny's loom--great handle and perfect for washcloth and just the right size.

Connie's silk noil scarf reminds one of spring days and colors. It is light and airy and she worked hard to achieve the waffles right where she wanted them.

Our newest member is on the learning curve--almost there.....and she wove this great cloth but there were some treadling errors---she is definitely going to give us a run for our money!

Dottie, who is master at whatever she sets her hand to, showed off one of her Christmas ornaments--felted fabric, hand embroidered and she recycles as well (using one of her empty yarn cones as a base).

She shows off one of her 'postcards' before it is placed in the mail to her dear friend. Ahh, to be one of those 'dear' friends.

Scharine models one of the 'rejects' from the recent fiber artist show. "Reject?" we say--"no way"! Scharine uses her family tecniques to fashion this interesting fabric for her jacket.

She has used traditional Japanese flower fabric and her fermented dyed fabric as accent.

Another reject--her lovely silk fermented dyed scarf. She uses indigo leaves for the dye process, which takes several days to achieve.

What can you do with linen paper yarn and stainless steel/silk? Easy, knit a scarf--that is exactly what Scharine did. And this scarf was accepted into the fiber artist show. Can't wait to see it in person!

Can we say color!!?? This is a warp that Scharine is to thread on her loom for the upcoming Ruby Leslie workshop. It's all about color, which fits nicely into the second weaver study group's work for the year.

D'Anne, from the WOW (Way Out West) group has this warp for the workshop. Ruby has wound all the warps for the participants and sent specific instructions on the threading.

Ahh, a blast from the past! But, now look ,this complete study session has been printed in lovely book form. The old one on the storage shelf is on loose paper printed by the hand of Else herself. We studied with Else many moons ago and had a wonderful learning experience.

Our faithful leader, Leigh, brought some of the yarn cones that she wants to weave with. She was asking for suggestion of weave structure. Oh, we had plenty of ideas for her!

Barbara had her weave draft at hand--a colorful crackle variation. We'll see the real deal soon, knowing Barbara, who does wonderful weavings! In all, it was a super week filled with so many ideas that could explore one's brain! Home to weave, if only..............................why is there always that excuse standing in the way??

Auditioning!

2011-10-06T07:17:00.000-06:00

No matter if you are auditioning for "X Factor", the local choir or gallery--we all need to audition somehow and somewhere. It's the same with quilts--how do you finish them off with the right border?

This quilt top was completed some time ago--it was a mystery from Lyn Brown. So now, that we have it finished, it is time to find the right border.

Will it be a light first border with a red outer?

Or reverse that--red inner and light blue outer?

We are still placing that light blue on the outside with a dark inner.

We've ditched the light blue for dark blue inner and red outer.

And now the reverse of the last one. What will it be? Maybe, we should call in the panel of judges to give us a clue--of course, there are other options and the top could be auditioning for weeks.

"Spooooooooky!"

2011-10-01T17:05:00.000-06:00

It's that time of the year again--spooky time! And to make the season just right and even more spooky (if that is possible!), Craft-lit podcast is now reading "Dracula" by Bram Stroker. We have listened to the first chapter and boy, we got goose bumps................what a super reader!

To go along with the reading, two knit-a-longs are being sponsored with patterns from What Would Madame Defarge Knit? This is the beginning of Whilhelmina's Shawlette.

Loving this KAL! Haven't decided if we'll participate in the October KAL--mittens--don't need them too often in Texas weather.

Now, we leave you with a nice cool scene from our trip to Southern Colorado--the autumn colors were outstanding and we were in awe! Off to unpack.......................................

Nature At Its Best!!

2011-09-26T09:47:00.000-06:00

Soon we are departing our summer residence. It has been a good summer--one filled with great adventures, wonderful times spent with brown headed daughter and many hours of relaxation. The mountains are receiving snows and that is a sign to head south, just as the birds do.

It seems now is the time when the sunsets are the greatest! This photo taken from our back deck as we dined--what color surrounded us! You just couldn't ask for a better dining view.

We took one final summer journey into Rocky Mountain National Park to view some wildlife--hoping that aspens had taken their fall turn to orange, red, yellow and golden and the elk were down from the high country.

Since it was a weekend day, the park was crowded--many had come out to bask in the changing of the leaves. This view was taken from Many Curves pullout. In the background is Longs Peak, 14,000 ft.

Not many of the aspens had turned this reddish-purple color, but the ground cover had. And amongst the lowly ground bushes, summer flowers still burst forth.

We picnicked at Upper Beaver Meadow in anticipation of elk viewing, but all we could see were these postings along the way. Guess we were at the wrong time of day for elk. In years past during mid day we had seen elk in downtown Estes, along the roadsides, and some just hopped out in front of our car as we drove Trail Ridge.

Several areas in the park are fenced to allow for vegetation to reseed and grow. These are the areas that elk have frequented. The sign reads "20 year project". Several of the older aspen trees have had the bark chewed off up to 8 feet from the ground--a hardy sign that elk feed here in the cold, snowy winter months.

Through the wires you can see a good stand of aspens and wonderful under growth.

We were off to visit the first campground where we took the kids back in June, 1974. They remember well and so do we adults! After pitching our tent, eating our evening meal and climbing into our tent, the rains came and that soon turned to snow! By morning we had several inches of snow around--fixed breakfast over the campfire (bundled up in layers of garments) and as soon as the eggs hit the plate--instant cold!! The only thing to do was pack up and head out of the high country. This visit the campground was closed for the winter--too bad! We wanted to visit the Big Rock where the kids sat to have their photo taken--oh, well, we'll pull out those photos and remember that time again!

We did continue up the road into Bear Lake parking lot--a much visited spot. So visited that rangers/volunteers direct traffic in and out; buses pick up at various locations in the park and Estes to deliver to this spot. We were fortunate to find a parking spot and took the short hike to the lake--where once again, we sat on the banks and thought back to those many visits to this area when visitors weren't so common.
As to the elk viewing--none existent--except for three young bull elk that were seen at the top of Trail Ridge Road (too far away to take a photo). We did see one small herd as we exited the park--a bull rested royally as his harem of cows enjoyed their grazing. A ranger was directing traffic so it was impossible to stop for photos--alas, we did see a few elk and our day was complete.

Remembering.............

2011-09-22T13:37:00.001-06:00

There are those times when you want to remember. Times when you want to forget. But, when the air turns chilly and fall is approaching rapidly, we remember when we pull out the rag rugs to lay on the kitchen tile floor. What do we remember? We think on our friendship with the person who wove these wonderful rugs.

These rugs were given to us many moons ago by a wonderful talented weaver, Alpha, who came into our life to give us guidance--not only in weaving, but lessons in how to live one's life. Alpha could weave anything and everything! She wasn't stifled by 4-6-8-10-12-16 harnesses. She wasn't put off by a complicated threading or threadling or a small thread. She charged ahead. She wove many yards of fabric that were used as draperies for her home. She wove wearables to cover her body. She wove overshot coverlets (of which we are the proud owner). And she wove these simple but elegant rag rugs.

The warp is coming undone in this one rug--someday, we'll need to reweave these rags but for the time being, Alpha lives on in this lovely floor cloth.

Weaving rugs is not our forte! and we certainly appreciate these coverings each and every year we put them down and take them up.

Alpha has been gone many years now and just recently we received word that her son has gone to meet her in the world beyond. We know they are embracing with joy and delight. Alpha has left us a legacy of joy and we remember to celebrate her life.

DETERMINATION!!!

2011-09-18T11:15:00.000-06:00

Determined! Yes, we can be determined at times--determined to finish what we begin! Case in point--brown headed daughter has decided (or is determined) to go back to school after 20+ years of being in the work field. She is going for her doctorate degree--this on top of being assistant principal in her daily life. But, she has always been a determined child--whenever she sets her mind--she finishes! It might take many years, but it will be finished. Many of us are like that--determined to finish what we start--even if it takes time and there are obstacles in our way.

This looked like a great project--but, there were some obstacles in the way! This pattern from one of our favorite designers Stephen West had a free pattern on Knitty's fall page. And reading over the supply list, we were stymied for awhile. This required four different skeins of yarn--but we were in a 'stash buster' mode. Put the pattern away for some time. Then pulling it out and reading again--suggestion from the designer "use small amounts of sock yarn"!! Whoa! The obstacle was removed and determination sent in! Let's see--there are all these small skeins of handspun yarn that could be used.

Casting on with silk/merino blend--what did the pattern call for? Holy Cow! over 400 stitches? All at once?? Okay, we can do this! But, the needles get all wonky but we will continue....that is real determination until.....................

We think about knitter friend Judy who was knitting on Kate's Shawl from Ravelry. The shawl is lovely (modeled by her daughter)! But, Judy had this massive ruffle to finish up the shawl--she called it "suicide" ruffle! or it could be called ruffle from hell in my book! Judy had determination to finish this shawl by the deadline--slowly, methodically she knitted--row by row until she finished! We should all have that drive..........

And remember those handspun yarns from previous post? There was the determination to see what the cap would look like when combined with black--not too happy with this; but, we are determined to finish that cap--even if it takes many moons!!!

What's New?

2011-09-14T09:02:00.000-06:00

What's New? That's the age old question......actually, nothing is new; just recycled, regenerated, rethought...............................But, in our world here is what's new (or ongoing newness!)

"In Greek mythology, Ananke, also spelled Anangke, Anance, or Anagke (Ancient Greek: Ἀνάγκη, from the common noun ἀνάγκη, "force, constraint, necessity"), was the personification of destiny, necessity and fate, depicted as holding a spindle" according to Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. So, we continue to knit on Ananke, which is a pattern from Shannon Squire.

And from the creative mind of Little Miss Shabby comes Birdie Stitches Block #9.

"Henrietta Whiskers" finally block--just little more stitching, then all nine blocks can be combined.

Stitching Captions for the ongoing "Peaceful Path" quilt designed by Esther Aliu. It's not too late to jump on the ride and join in on the excitement. This is through yahoo group.

Peaceful Path requires many, many half square triangles but in the end this will be a lovely red and white quilt.

We have been traveling through the vastness of the Southwest. The colors of the sandstone mountains and canyons is quite the inspiration. One can not help but be awed by the hand of nature. And this is definitely not new! For over 700million years or more, this land has been formed and it keeps reinventing--only we will not be here to witness the new.

OH NO--You Didn't??!!

2011-09-08T08:03:00.001-06:00

Afraid so--after denying that another 'gap cap' would be started, this yarn appeared in the stash pile.

The yarn was a single handspun, so had to be plied but once it was plied and the lovely colors popped, thoughts begin to rumble in the brain.

And then this yarn was 'discovered' in the stash bin too--and it's Easter egg dyed handspun . And the brain worked overtime.............................what would these two yarns look like if they were combined in one of those 'gap caps'? Yes, we said that we wouldn't do another 'gap cap' for some time, but the needles and yarn just happen to begin their magic.

And this is what burst forth! Works good together and makes a nice hat. We ate our words to create another charity hat. Now, the brain is thinking again...........................

There is some of this colorful yarn left, so what would happen if it was combined with black? Hmmmmm.........................

Off The Needles! Blocked! Ready to Wear!!

2011-09-04T11:01:00.000-06:00

Finished! An awesome word to say! Having worked on these items for a few days and or weeks, we are happy to report that the yarns have been bound off, the item has been blocked and is ready to throw over our bodies.

This shawl was the genius design from the mind of Stephen West, and was a mystery project on his Ravelry group this past month. What a fun knit!

The yarn was 'stash' yarn, mostly wool fiber but some novelty thrown in for an accent. The pattern is called "Earth and Sky" and can be purchased through Ravelry. Keep your fingers crossed that Stephen will host another mystery KAL (knit along) in the future.

This 'Ode to Jo' shawl has been completed. This was also a mystery KAL sponsored through Ravelry group--you can find all kinds of groups to get you in trouble there!

Handspun green cotton as it's finest--in memory of Jo, whose green cotton from her garden created this wearable. This shawl will be worn with many thoughts of Jo and the good times we shared.

On one of our summer quilt shop outings, we stopped in Snappy Quilts and while browsing through the patterns, came upon this super apron. Hmmmm, one of those jelly rolls should work nicely for this and we certainly need an apron in the kitchen.

Quite an easy sew this Vanilla House pattern is. And now, we have an apron to keep those grease spots off our new shirts.

Please Throw a Lifeline!

2011-08-31T13:24:00.000-06:00

We can throw out a lifeline to a drowning person, purchase a medical alert item that will give a lifeline to someone in need; there is even a lifeline for dog rescue or someone in despair and in knitting there is also a lifeline...................................and this is an insurance you do not need to purchase. It's one that you need if you make a mistake in your knitting!

Oh, boy! Big time mistake! Just knitting away--thinking the pattern was being followed. Oh, it looked so simple to follow those directions when the eyes first 'glanced' over the instructions. Knitting happily away--going to finish that clue #10 (being behind in the clues doesn't help either). Yes, we are finished and then clue #11 and there are way toooooooooooo many stitches! What to do? Well, first read over the pattern again--duh!

Okay, nothing to do but--dare we say it--ripppppp it out! Groan! and we do not have that insurance that most intelligent lace knitters use. That Lifeline Insurance so described by Heartstrings. Why do we think that our lace knitting can survive any mistakes!! Stupid for sure!! and now, we must rip back to the end of clue #10.

And pick up stitches! Don't anyone touch this till all those 150+ stitches have been put back on the needle. Slowly, now--don't drop any of those yarnovers.

Whew! a sign of relief--all stitches have been recovered and not one stitch was dropped. Okay, we have learned our lesson--throw in a lifeline while knitting lace!

A Stroll Through Rocky Mountain Quilt Festival

2011-08-24T09:51:00.000-06:00

Another good day spent with knitter friend Judy. On our drive to our destination we have time to share our thoughts, our ideas, learned techniques since we last met and goals we hope to meet. We are taking the short drive to Loveland to attend the Rocky Mountain Quilt Festival, We have personalize service when a volunteer arrives at our car in his little golf cart to take us the last few steps to the door. Thank you volunteer!
We enter to find vendor booths and off to one side is this "Icicles" display from the Road to California quilt conference.

Fiber artists from across the country were asked to create a dimensional icicle from six to ten feet in length and no more than 18" in width.

The requirements of the challenge was to use an artistic vision of quilted icicles in blue, white and silver. The exhibit is called "California Ice Storm".

Hoffman Quilt Challenge 2011 show pieces were on display.

You, too, can work with the featured fabrics for 2012 challenge.

This show winner was crafted by Sherry Reynolds of Laramie, Wyoming.

Entitled "My Wyoming Home"

Don't you just love this bug jar quilt? There are a couple of gals in our ex-pat group making these--what fun to look for all these bug fabrics! Jan Weber of Centennial, CO made the quilt and Karen Farnham did the long arm quilting.

Bunny Hill Designs is the creative mind behind this pattern. But, the hands of Elizabeth Purkett, Longmont, CO did all the work.

This was a block of the month, entitled "Le Jardin" from The Fat Quarter Shop and the quilting was accomplished by Kim Waite Dreamcatchers Quilting, Mead, CO.

Nancy Pennington, Fort Collins, CO used "Legacy of Stars" pattern from July/August 2002 Quilter Newsletter. This quilt uses over 600 half square triangles. Nancy completed the quilt in 2009.

This quilt is made by the hands of Nancy Pennington--what a quilter! This was a mystery from Bonnie Hunter's website Quiltville. This pattern is called "Roll Cotton Boll Roll"--quite the challenge too as there are over 600 1.5" half square triangles!
We didn't purchase much. Judy did find wonderful new fabric (new to us anyway) to make a great bag. Other purchases were minimal--hope those vendors didn't rely on us to make a profit!

Rocky Mountain High!

2011-08-20T16:12:00.000-06:00

A journey into the natural................................a journey into Rocky Mountain National Park brings you lovely skies, cool temperatures, peaceful settings, lovely wildflowers and roaring streams as they tumble toward the great rivers.

Mixed Bag of Tricks!

2011-08-15T11:32:00.000-06:00

There comes a time when we must pull out a bag of tricks to keep things rolling--what tricks? Don't you have your own bag of tricks? Ideas, thoughts, creativity, just plain "stick-to-itness".......doesn't everyone have those things just waiting in the wings for the day when it's right for the picking?

Let's pull this one out of the bag and catch up with the others in the group! The knitting on this handspun shawl is so far behind, we really need some of that proddin' or jabbin' to pick up the needles and begin on clue........where did we leave off?

It really is going to be pretty when (and IF) it is ever finished. Just can't seem to stick to the needles on this one.

And what do we have here? A real mixed bag---of yarns. and what do these yarns all have in common? Well, they are going to make up a mixed warp for a weaving challenge. Now, just have to pull out one of those 'tricks' to figure out how to measure the warp and then how to sley. Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm, this will take some thinkin' for sure. Guess we'd better let that one rest.

The loom already had a warp from (mumble under her breath) summer...........okay, it was summer of 2009--that's not all that bad, is it? Anyway, we'll just tie on and pull through--one thread at a time.

This is what happens sometimes when you try to pull through the reed and heddles--threads get lost and we have to pull out another trick to rescue them. The loose yarns are weighted and the feet are ready to tromp the treadles.

Here is the first sample--not good! Too close of a sett--back to rethreading--we do want those ribbons and bumpy yarns to make an appearance. And the handle of this--awful! Feels like sandpaper.......................

This is much better--at least, that trick of spacing the warp makes a difference; but, still not too sure this is what we want to see and feel. Okay, this little project will wait..........................................we'll need to go back to our bag of tricks and see what we can magically pull out!

Flying Geese & Other Sundry Stuff!

2011-08-11T11:21:00.000-06:00

Darn those 'Gap' Caps! The knitting needles are flying around, using up that stash yarn that has been nicely aged! You'll never see this cap on this head--used purple!! Nothing else needs to be said..............of course, there are lots of 'purple' people out there and this cap will look nicely on one of their heads. Boy, "green head" is sure missed when a model is needed!

Using two different colors of yarns makes a world of difference in the look.

Not only has this yarn been aging, but the pattern as well. This is a super kids hat pattern from a favorite designer--Woolly Wormhead. Was a quick knit.

And now to the flying geese part of this blog. This is a easy way to create those critters--no bias edges either to work with--one large square and two smaller ones with a diagonal line drawn 1/4" on either side of the center.

Sew down each side of the line and then cut between the sewn lines.

Who cares if you cut straight?

Oh, look--two hearts appear after the seams are pressed towards the light.

Add another one of those squares to the pointy end of the heart and sew again.

Chain stitching is good!

Cut between the lines and look--you have those pesky flying geese flying straight off the board!

And we add those flying geese to the top of the larger 4.5" square and we have the finished 48 blocks to this mystery quilt pattern sponsored by Lyn Brown on her website. Now, we wait for clue #4 to be posted on August 17th--We are ahead of the game for once.

All the pieces are cut, pressed and ready to be appliqued onto the eighth block from Bunny Hill Designs "Henrietta Whiskers"
Okay, back to another one of those 'Gap' Caps.......................................................

Wrapping Up the Week

2011-08-06T09:26:00.000-06:00

We are wrapping up a week's WIP--one is finished, another begun (shame, shame). No sewing this week--just knitting, knitting, and some fun!

Here is the finished 'Gap' Cap! This is always a quick knit--just hard to put down sometimes when you want to keep your fingers involved--mindless knitting for sure!

Found this handspun knitted cap hiding in the closet--must have been knitted many moons ago--think it is a sideways with short rows knit as there is a seam.

And we have begun a mystery shawl by one of our favorite designers. Check out Stephen West's mystery KAL on Ravalry--don't you just love that site? It gets us into so much trouble! Using stash yarn here--no need to buy more when this has aged nicely.

And for a fun day! My knitter friend Judy's daughter Betsy (are you following this?) is a free lance production assistant and she got a gig this week to assist with the filming of The Quilt Show, which was being taped in Boulder. Betsy received two complimentary passes for Judy and her friend--Me! (Thank you Betsy and Judy!) So we met up at the Daylight Studios at 8:30 AM.

So, this is all you get to see until the production is shown sometime in early 2012! Look for us on the very back row....we were last in line so we were last to file into seats. What an interesting day!

Testing the Gorilla to Make the Gap

2011-08-03T09:53:00.000-06:00

Oh yeah, we are testing the Gorilla to make sure it does what it says! The Gorilla Glue that is.........the label says it will bond with most anything, is stronger, faster--well, we've heard that speil before so this will be a real test!

See, the little screw thingie on the smaller cable needle pulled out of its socket--a real bummer when you are knitting and have soooooooo many stitches and the next thing you know, all those stitches are loose! Yes, loose and floating off the needle!! And we need that smaller cable to hit hats. Hubby says there is gorilla in the garage! A gorilla in the garage??
Gorilla glue, he says--reported to be stronger, faster bond, hold forever...................finding that gorilla on his garage shelves--now, that is a feat in itself!! but, find that small gorilla we did and squeeze a small amount and we mean very small amount into that little hole is another feat. Let it set--how fast is fast? It's a long time when you want to knit right away.

Going through the stash yarns we have come across these small bits. what to do, what to do--can't just throw them away? Awww, yes.....................................remembering knitter friend Judy's recipe for a cap (supposedly named the Gap Cap from photos of this retail's stores hat). That would be perfect pattern to use up these orphan yarns.

Who would have thought that those two ophans would marry quite nicely--and the gorilla has been holding that screw thingie to the cable quite well. Do you think there is a chance of an endorsement for Gorilla Glue?