Monday, August 15, 2016

Summer Smitten Blanket and other crafts

I started this in the middle of June thinking it would make a great summer project. Well I was right.  It went with me to my mom's chemo appointments, on the train to Portland last month, and any time there was a road trip.  In fact this thing has been practically living in the car.   Since it was one color,  and you crochet one square at a time, it was quite portable and there weren't many ends to weave in!
I used Knit Picks organic cotton worsted which was amazingly soft, not anything like the kitchen twine I've struggled with when making dishcloths.  The pattern was free over on byHaafner, and there's a handy little chart you can print off if you like that sort of thing.  I found it helpful, although it was easy enough to memorize once you made a few squares.  All the details are on my Ravelry page.

   There hasn't been much sewing going on around here.   I broke down and bought a quilting hoop and a nimble thimble and am trying my best to hand quilt, but it's slow. The leather nimble thimbles are a great idea, but I seem to be in between sizes.  The medium was too big and kept slipping off.  When it finally flew across the couch and hit the dog, I decided to order a small.  Now that one is too tight.  This is a bit like Goldilocks testing out the beds.

I bought some goodies in Portland at Knit Purl and have started knitting the Farmhouse shawl, and it's so fun!  Probably another reason why the quilting has taken a back seat.
 
Anyway that's my summer so far. Hope you're enjoying yours. Seems to be wrapping up doesn't it? Bring on the Fall.   Can't. Wait.

6 comments:

  1. Just as I can't wait for Winter! Your crocheting is gorgeous Lynne! I have a skein of that Shelter wool. I'm helping my daughter-in-law knit a baby blanket for Eli!

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  2. Your summer project blanket is very lovely. It looks so soft. I made a quick stop in Knit Purl on our trip to Portland. I loved looking but didn't buy anything. Your purchases are great.

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  3. The blanket looks lovely, an ideal travelling project. The Farmhouse Shawl will be very snuggly.

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  4. Beautiful afghan! I have the Farmhouse shawl on my Ravelry queue. I love the simplicity of it.

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  5. I can't tell you how much I LOVE your crocheted blanket all finished up! I have been waiting with great anticipation to see it in all its GLORY! You did not disappoint my friend :-))) Well Done!!!
    I didn't realize you were using Knit Picks Organic Cotton. It's a staple in my stash... One of my absolute favorites. No other cotton compares to it.
    I am so impressed with anyone who can hand quilt! I tried it once years ago. Notice I said "once". I hope you find a thimble that doesn't jeopardize the safety of your sweet dog :-/
    Oh.... And I will be anxiously awaiting a peek at your Farmhouse Shawl.

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  6. Your summer blanket is beautiful and it looks difficult to do. I don´t think I could memorize how to do a square. Thanks for the link to the instructions, maybe I will give it a try.
    KATRIN W.

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You guys are awesome! Thank you for the comments!