Knitting Panda

Is your cat plotting to kill you??

2008-12-02T12:36:00.001-08:00

Problem is... I have two cats. Can you do the math on that??

My Birdie Buddies

2008-11-25T12:43:00.000-08:00

Kisses from MurphyAnd Claude hiding in the back...

Book Meme

2008-11-24T08:34:00.000-08:00

1. The Da Vinci Code (Dan Brown)
2. Pride and Prejudice (Jane Austen)
3. To Kill A Mockingbird (Harper Lee)
4. Gone With The Wind (Margaret Mitchell)
5. The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King (Tolkien)
6. The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring (Tolkien)
7. The Lord of the Rings: Two Towers (Tolkien)
8. Anne of Green Gables (L.M. Montgomery)
9. Outlander (Diana Gabaldon)
10. A Fine Balance (Rohinton Mistry)
11. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (Rowling)
12. Angels and Demons (Dan Brown)
13. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (Rowling)
14. A Prayer for Owen Meany (John Irving)
15. Memoirs of a Geisha (Arthur Golden)
16. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (Rowling)
17. Fall on Your Knees (Ann-Marie MacDonald)
18. The Stand (Stephen King)
19. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (Rowling)
20. Jane Eyre (Charlotte Bronte)
21. The Hobbit (Tolkien)*
22. The Catcher in the Rye(J.D. Salinger)
23. Little Women (Louisa May Alcott)
24. The Lovely Bones (Alice Sebold)
25. Life of Pi
26. The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (Douglas Adams)
27. Wuthering Heights (Emily Bronte)
28. The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe (C. S. Lewis)
29. East of Eden (John Steinbeck) *
30. Tuesdays with Morrie (Mitch Albom)
31. Dune (Frank Herbert)
32. The Notebook (Nicholas Sparks)
33. Atlas Shrugged (Ayn Rand)
34. 1984 (Orwell)
35. The Mists of Avalon (Marion Zimmer Bradley)
36. The Pillars of the Earth (Ken Follett)
37. The Power of One (Bryce Courtenay)
38. I Know This Much is True (Wally Lamb)
39. The Red Tent (Anita Diamant)
40. The Alchemist (Paulo Coelho)
41. The Clan of the Cave Bear (Jean M. Auel)*
42. The Kite Runner(Khaled Hosseini)
43. Confessions of a Shopaholic (Sophie Kinsella)
44. The Five People You Meet In Heaven (Mitch Albom)
45. Bible*
46. Anna Karenina (Tolstoy)
47. The Count of Monte Cristo (Alexandre Dumas)
48. Angela’s Ashes (Frank McCourt)
49. The Grapes of Wrath (John Steinbeck)
50. She’s Come Undone (Wally Lamb)
51. The Poisonwood Bible (Barbara Kingsolver)
52. A Tale of Two Cities (Dickens)
53. Ender’s Game (Orson Scott Card)
54. Great Expectations (Dickens)
55. The Great Gatsby (Fitzgerald)
56. The Stone Angel (Margaret Laurence)
57. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (Rowling)
58. The Thorn Birds (Colleen McCullough)
59. The Handmaid’s Tale (Margaret Atwood)
60. The Time Traveller’s Wife (Audrey Niffenegger)
61. Crime and Punishment (Fyodor Dostoyevsky)
62. The Fountainhead (Ayn Rand)
63. War and Peace (Tolstoy)
64 - Interview With the Vampire
65. Fifth Business (Robertson Davis)
66. One Hundred Years Of Solitude (Gabriel Garcia Marquez)*
67. The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants (Ann Brashares)
68. Catch-22 (Joseph Heller)
69. Les Miserables (Hugo)
70. The Little Prince (Antoine de Saint-Exupery)
71. Bridget Jones’ Diary (Fielding)
72. Love in the Time of Cholera (Marquez)
73. Shogun (James Clavell)
74. The English Patient (Michael Ondaatje)
75. The Secret Garden (Frances Hodgson Burnett)
76. The Summer Tree (Guy Gavriel Kay)
77. A Tree Grows in Brooklyn (Betty Smith)
78. The World According To Garp (John Irving)
79. The Diviners (Margaret Laurence)
80. Charlotte’s Web (E.B. White)
81. Not Wanted On The Voyage (Timothy Findley)
82. Of Mice And Men (Steinbeck)
83. Rebecca (Daphne DuMaurier)
84. Wizard’s First Rule (Terry Goodkind)
85. Emma (Jane Austen)
86. Watership Down(Richard Adams)
87. Brave New World (Aldous Huxley)*
88. The Stone Diaries (Carol Shields)
89. Blindness (Jose Saramago)
90. Kane and Abel (Jeffrey Archer)
91.The Skin of the Lion (Ondaatje)
92. Lord of the Flies (Golding)
93. The Good Earth (Pearl S. Buck)
94. The Secret Life of Bees (Sue Monk Kidd)
95. The Bourne Identity (Robert Ludlum)
96. The Outsiders (S.E. Hinton)
97. White Oleander (Janet Fitch)
98. A Woman of Substance (Barbara Taylor Bradford)*
99. The Celestine Prophecy (James Redfield)
100. Ulysses (James Joyce)

Add to the Project list

2008-09-09T13:59:00.000-07:00

Don't get me wrong. I love rats. Even with all of the innards outards. From Craftyhedgehog's site on Etsy.

I'm an Oboe

2008-09-09T13:53:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe that this strip is written by a man. He has the young girl angst thing down pat.

Boo-Boo kitty

2008-08-20T07:02:00.000-07:00

I had to rush one of my eleven year old kitties to the vet on Saturday. She had broken off the bottom part of her upper canine tooth.

Bubu has what are referred to as 'neck lesion' or 'resorptive lesion'. The lesion created a narrowing on her fang tooth, and caused enough damage to weaken the tooth until it broke.

But don't worry, Bubu is now home, on painkillers, and doing fine.

Mom, however, has a whopper of a vet bill.

This is dedicated...

2008-04-28T17:55:00.001-07:00

Future posts, you know, ones with substance, go out to Nancy. Who, besides Jaffee, is the only human being to read this blog.

From me, To me

2008-04-28T17:13:00.000-07:00

Every year. for my birthday, I always treat myself to something special. On Sunday, my friend Judith treated me to a mani-pedi, we had excellent Thai food (and Thai iced tea for me and Thai iced coffee for her)and browsed the stacks at Barnes and Noble. I bought myself:

Vogue Knitting magazine
Sew Stylish magazine
Vogue Patterns magazine

I've decided to make a decision to live my life now, and not wait for some day to be this perfect, happy person. I am going to find a way to incorporate more knitting and sewing in my life. I have the time, space, and resources to really pursue creating some of my clothing NOW. I don't need to wait for some day dream life in the future that will never happen.

2-at-a-time Socks by Melissa Morgan-Oaks

My friend Mary pretty much said you can't knit two socks at once. (She won't even discuss DPNs, which I find hysterical. This woman knit a fair isle sweater that is as beautiful on the inside as on the outside. She has knit stuffed toys. She has knit a Vera Wang style sweater for cats for Crazy Aunt Purl.) I'm motivated to try this technique. Will this (eventually) be a commuter friendly project?

Oh yeah, which made the purchase of this a necessity:

And to round out the order, I purchased the newest Gedifra Highlights. You know, just to justify the shipping.

THe Lobotomist by Jack El-hai.

I've been waiting to read this for some time. I've long since forgotten where I saw it recommended, but I remember it as another side to the main who pioneered the lobotomy as treament for mental illness. I have been doing alot of reading on the internet lately on this subject.

Quick and Easy Tarot (I'm honestly alittle embarassed by this. Not by the Tarot cards, I already have a set. And two books on the subject. I'm embarassed by the fact that I still need "cheat notes." But hey, if it works, it works.)

Each card has the meaning printed right on the card.

Nipolar Disorder Demystafied by Lana R. Castle

Exoect to hear more on this issue. It isn't so much a mystery to me, this book is somewhat basic for me. But I needed a place to start my personal journey, and this one is written by a patient.

PS The first time, I totally typed "lobata-MOIST." OMG.

How Many Five-Year olds Could you Take in a Fight?

2008-04-10T13:17:00.001-07:00

I'm 80% Geek!

2008-04-10T13:16:00.001-07:00

80% Geek

What classic pinup are you?

2008-04-03T14:46:00.001-07:00

What Classic Pin-Up Are You?

You're Brigitte Bardot!
Take this quiz!

Quizilla |
Join

| Make A Quiz | More Quizzes | Grab Code

Gift Giving

2008-01-11T17:47:00.000-08:00

My Knitting Goals for 2008

I'm a big believer that gifts should be fun, not useful. You need to be careful around me, because if you mention once that you like something, I make a note in my Palm. And then, when your birthday comes around, I look at that list and find something special to buy. I buy toys, games, luxuries. Things that you want but would never buy for yourself.

Today I did a silly thing. I went to Amazon.com and bought every item on one of my wish lists: Sexy Knitting. I had the list down to five books out of all the recent offerings in the realm of "sexy knitting." Domaknitrix, for example, I had browsed in person and found to be wanting. And without a second thought I purchased them all, new.

It all started with Knitting Fashions of the 40's. My mother kept requesting "fun" and frivolous things to buy for me for Christmas. I asked her to buy this book since I knew I never would - I don't think I'll knit a single pattern in this book, ever 0 but I look to look at the pictures for inspiration. It's a very feminine, Dita Von Teese thing that I love.

Then, I became obsessed. I allowed myself some "grief-shopping" and spent $90 without a though and adopted:

Naughty Needles

Romantic Hand Knits

Knitting Lingerie Style

Sexy Little Knits

Sensual Knits

Now, I find spending money promisculously very arousing, but the really sexy thing is this: I'm going to knit these things. These sexy little things. Because I am a beautiful, sexy, attractive, desirable, adorable being. And I deserve pretty little things. And whoa! How neat! If I make them myself.

So the real fun gift from me to me is not the books but that warm and fuzzy self love.

Hello, 2008!

Happy Birthday Chris Noth!

2007-11-13T10:17:00.000-08:00

Still looking fine, Detective Logan.

Give him some love. Be sure to watch the new episodes of Law and Order: Criminal Intent on the USA Network on Thursday nights.

I love you!!

My, My, my eye

2007-10-25T15:22:00.000-07:00

First, a funny story. When people ask why I sew or knit, I say it's because I have control issues. When I'm shopping, I'll always look at a garment and think how I'd change the color, or fabric, or something. Just recently, I was looking at this pattern with a friend, and said the following: "It's perfect. I would just add thiss, change this, and change this."

Lima, by Jane Ellison in Sulka by Mirasol Yarns. I said it's perfect! I would just shape it more below the bust, add a few buttons, and puff the sleeves for a more current silhouette. And low and behold, I found this:

The puff sleeve cardigan from Victoria's Secret. Sadly, no longer available in this color, but in pale pink and black for $59.

Spring Accessories

2007-10-18T07:49:00.000-07:00

From style.com's Spring 2008 report on accessories:

Uhm, have it:The Little Reg Bag by Balenciaga

Uhm, have them (from J. Crew):
pink satin mules from Louboutin

and WANT it (isn't this a great color combo??):turqouise patent bag with resin frame from Frisoni.

We Didn't Start the Fire

2007-10-16T12:43:00.000-07:00

The more you know: The completely clickable lyrics to Billy Joel's 1989 "We Didn't Start the Fire"...

RIP Charles Griffith

2007-10-16T12:40:00.000-07:00

Charles Griffith, who wrote the screenplay for the original Little Shop of Horrors movie and co-wrote the update, has died, a relative said. He was 77.

Griffith died of a heart attack Sept. 28, said his cousin Ron Fellows.

Griffith was known for his work on low-budget horror-comedy films in the 1960s and 1970s and often collaborated with director Roger Corman.

Griffith wrote the script for the 1960 cult classic The Little Shop of Horrors, directed by Corman, and later helped write the screenplay for the 1986 film adaptation of the musical.

The original film, shot in black and white in about two days, featured a young Jack Nicholson in one of his early roles as a pain-loving dental patient.

Griffith, born Sept. 23, 1930, in Chicago, was introduced to Corman in 1954 through a friend. He got his first feature writing credit on Corman's It Conquered the World in 1956, and the two worked on more than a dozen films.

Griffith also wrote The Wild Angels, a Corman film starring Peter Fonda that was widely considered a forerunner to Easy Rider. He also directed a handful of films, including Eat My Dust, a movie whose script he wrote that starred Ron Howard.

Survivors include his wife, daughter and four grandchildren.

8 Foods Women Should Eat Everyday

2007-10-16T10:15:00.000-07:00

From fitsugar.com.

Blueberries
Oats
Walnuts
Black beans
Carrots
Tomatoes
Yogurt
Spinach

Things to Do

2007-10-14T14:58:00.000-07:00

from an old list, before I moved:

frog Patons

remove knots, wind merino

find 5th dpn

needle case, especially circular

yarn storage / knit from stash

reasess current projects

complete install mind manager

Topics for Blogging

2007-10-14T14:53:00.000-07:00

1. Finished Objects
2. Works in Progress
3. New yarn, patterns, supplies purchased
4. pictures of knits in progress
5. resolutions
6. new techniques
7. charity knitting
8. store review
9. magazine review
10. stash
11. other bloggers
12. book review
13. wish list
14. education / museuems
15. essay
16. about me
17. pets
18. fashion
19. pandas

Add to my Amazon wishlist...

2007-10-14T13:18:00.000-07:00

Jean Frost Jackets: Fabric, Fit and Finish for Today's Knits.

Wanted for: Chanel-style jackets. My other mother says that I need more "classic pieces" in my wardrobe.

Sexy Fair Isle

2007-10-14T13:07:00.000-07:00

Further thought on bringing sexy back to fair isle (back?):
From Gedifra Highlights 072, Pattern 1026 (2nd from left, in case you don't spot it...)

BTW, I totally bought the fair isle dress from Urban Outfitters I mentioned here, and then realized I couldn't afford it. C'est la vie. I better look fierce in this dress! (After I buy the tights and the flat, black boots to wear with it... sigh.)

Knit Mice

2007-10-14T12:46:00.000-07:00

I purchased the September? issue of Simply Knitting (UK) for $9.99 at Barnes and Noble, all for... A Noah' Ark pattern book by Alan Dart. On Ravelry.

I want to knit mice... See them by Noah and... er, uhm, Mrs. Noah's feet? And the pandas, of course.

Below is Cheese (on Ravelry) from the Spring 2006 issue. That was how I first heard of designer Alan Dart, as people became obsessed with finding back issues of magazines for his toy patterns. Welcome to the club, Jo Ann...

Cool Stuff: Knitting Tees

2007-10-14T12:27:00.000-07:00

I have a few other cool knitting tees bookmarked - I need to get them all together. But here's an "evening" t-shirt (lol) from knitone. Available in black or white, short or long sleeved for $32 or $38. Yes, those are rhinestones. They also sell lovely bags...

A Confession (Is this admissable in court?)

2007-10-14T12:16:00.000-07:00

I have this mad crush on Vickie Howell... I know she's married-with-kids and all, and even if not, probably not interested in me, but still... I find confidence sexy.

True story: (Now ex-)boyfriend walks into the room to see me watching Knitty Gritty. I know why you watch this show... he says knowingly. [blush]

[Cough, cough.] ANYWAY, Vickie has her own podcast starting Nov. 1. I thought I'd mention it here, because it's not available yet and I know I'll forget.

On a completely unrelated note, my cat Bubu (Batterup) just yawned and dayum, smelled like Rockaway at low tide. Guess which animal health professional is too scared to get her cat's teeth cleaned??
Guess this post is all about... Nah, I won't say it. If I ever meet Vickie, I don't want her to slap me.

File under... Next Year: Stitch n' Pitch

2007-10-14T12:02:00.000-07:00

I am a big fan of baseball. I am an even bigger fan of cold beer and hot dogs (and cotton candy and, well, you get the idea.) Sadly, though, Stitch n' Pitch in New York came at a horrible time in my life. I didn't make it to one Yankee game this past year, or even a Met game. (Although I am a die hard Yankee fan, the food at Shea Stadium is much better than at Yankee Stadium. The view is also better, and so is the commute.) Next year!

Meanwhile, check out some of the baseball-themed crafts... These are pretty cool!

Potential Project

2007-10-14T11:28:00.000-07:00

The Ingenue Blouse by Phoenix Bess reads as a very easy pattern. For a very sexy, au courant design. Except for the cost of wool (and at least three sets of circs!) I would have already cast this on... From the Fall 2007 of Knitscene magazine. On Ravelry.

Wait one minute... Why does that name sound so familiar? That's right, I read about this chick in another magazine. AND I wanted to knit these pants:At least I'm consistent...

Oh, and by "chick" I mean highly successful, confident wonderful young woman in the most respectful manner possible...

Sexy hand-knit men's sweater

2007-10-14T11:11:00.000-07:00

This is the first men's sweater that I have seen in a knitting magazine or book that has made me say "Oh!" Dare I say, it's even sexy?Cables Milano by Sandi Prosser in the October 2007 issue of Knit n' Style. On Ravelry.

Rain Boots

2007-10-12T10:18:00.001-07:00

I was going to invest in a stylish pair of rain boots this season, to save myself from wet feet. Coquette has kindly posted some possibilities here. I'm thinking of these, both about $50:

This is a good investment, non?

Yet more Teese-ing

2007-10-12T10:15:00.000-07:00

I just can't help it. This woman can do no wrong in my book. Unlike some...

Jaffee!

2007-10-09T12:01:00.001-07:00

When you stop by, do you feed the panda?

More Von Teese

2007-10-08T13:30:00.001-07:00

Exactly.

Happy Birthday Ms. Von Teese

2007-10-01T09:07:00.000-07:00

Happy belated (Sept. 28) Birthday to Dita Von Teese, a real fashion icon and true role model for young women.

She always looks flawless, totally rocks her own personal style, and manages to avoid scandal and embarrassment in Hollywood. We can all learn a lesson from this classic beauty.

Shopping Site: Shopstyle

2007-10-01T09:01:00.000-07:00

From the fabulous people that brought us Fabsugar, and Popsugar, and basically the people who are trying to get me fired:

Shopstyle: The looks you crave from the stores you love. All in one place.

The user interface is much friendlier than most shopping sites. I will be spending some time playing in this web site...

Knitting in the Spotlight

2007-10-01T08:58:00.000-07:00

Check out Ms. Angelina Jolie's over sized knit bag. This is going to cause a fashion feeding-frenzy, no doubt.

Fair Isle at Urban Outfitters

2007-10-01T08:51:00.001-07:00

I don't know why THIS was the fair isle sweater to turn my head, but here it is:

Lux Fairisle Sweater Dress from Urban Outfitters, $58. Available in grey (above) or black.

Cozy sweater dress knit with a bit of angora for some serious softness. Knit with allover folksy stripes and cut with a deep-v neck. Rib-knit trim at the neck, sleeves and hem. Exclusive to Urban Outfitters. Imported. Machine wash.
*Tunic silhouette
*Knee length
*35"l from shoulder to hem
*Fits true to size
*Ramie, acrylic, angora

Passive Resistance cat video

2007-10-01T08:47:00.000-07:00

Ever try to get a cat to do something that it doesn't want to do? They are the masters of passive-aggressiveness. Watch this kitty and his peaceful protest of exercise.

Lazy cat on a Treadmill

The Puppoose

2007-10-01T08:45:00.000-07:00

File under "Wish I Thought of This First":

The Puppoose, an $80 crocheted sling to carry around your fou fou dog.

Comments? I have comments??

2007-10-01T08:14:00.000-07:00

I am so embarrassed.

I have comments? I guess for some reason I have the comment notification turned "off". Probably because I didn't know anyone read this blog.

To Crazy Aunt Purl and Bronx Girl Knits, I am soo sorry! I so totally appreciate your comments. I literally had to pause a moment after I realized that I had comments (breathe!) and then I felt so bad since they had been there for a month... Maybe because I'm so busy stalking y'all!

Rest

2007-08-24T10:57:00.001-07:00

Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass on a summer day listening to the murmur of water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is hardly a waste of time.

~John Lubbock

Snapple Real Facts

2007-08-24T07:19:00.000-07:00

Snapple Real Facts #115: Bamboo makes up 99% of a panda's diet.

Substitute "Starbucks" for "bamboo"...

Vogueknitting 25th Anniversary Issue

2007-08-12T12:30:00.000-07:00

Vogueknitting 25th Anniversary Issue

10 advertiser covers

What I Want:

Loop-d-Loop by Teva Durham Volume 1

I am always intrigued by the concept of convertible clothing. Two designs can be worn in more than one way: the snap tape convertible dress and baguette scarf/sleeves. Several other patterns look interesting and are worked in delicious yarns. $16.50. The Baguette, a beginner level project, requires 5 skeins of Shale, at $10.95. I think I like the grey/black as shown the best in this mohair/viscoise wrapped matte/shiny yarn. The Convertible Dress requires 13 balls of Fern at $9.95. Fern is a wool blend woven tape yarn, and again, I like the blue as shown.

Also a solid investment is Norah Gaughan V ol. 1 from Berroco, which contains two stories for $15.95. There is a beautiful, beginner level scarf worked in two styles of yarns. As Sabine FX, the scarf is worked in Metallic FX and as Luce, it is worked in Pure Merino Nuance. I'm not sure which colors I like best in Nuance - there are pretty greys, pinks, greens...

These three scarf patterns are projects that I could actually complete, and are portable enough for commuting or work. The yarn for the baguette is pricey, but I bet the Berroco yarns are reasonable.

I'd also like to try a pair of these square knitting needles by Kollage Yarns. Made of Forest Palm wood from Vietnam, they are available in a range of sizes. They also have square crochet hooks. According to their website, they placed a sample pair on display at a craft show. Many different people picked up this one swatch to try the needles. Amazingly, the stitches are uniform because of the needle's square shape. Many people also think the shape is less stressful on the hands. I grip the needles in a death grip, and have many tension issues as a result, so I'd like to try this on my entrelac scarf Special Project. I'd also like to buy the crochet hook for my friend Mary who has some nerve issues with her hand. The needles are approximately $20 for a pair.

But on the someday/maybe list are these Signature needles, custom made. Choose your own point style from stiletto to blunt and your own end cap. Truly beautiful, and I bet the choice of tip could be useful.

New designer for me to watch: Aquascutum. I was first intrigued by the knit corset top shown as inspiration, but the entire line contains interesting manipulation of textiles and construction techniques. Very Issey Miyake.

Oh yeah. The magazine had patterns, too. More supposedly beginner level scarves that I could possibly knit, also in a lovely silver grey palette to fit the motif. A futuristic pleated scarf by Fayla Reiss and a beautiful floral creation in silk and Swarvorski by (the) Nicky Epstein open the collection, and a simple open work shawl in ribbon by Laura Bryant closes it. I love the yarn, a railroad style ribbon special dyed for Vogue. And to add to my obsession with knit skirts: a neo-boho panel skirt alternating multicolors with black. but the yarn doesn't seem to be readily available. And it would require a lot of sewing. (I got nervous when the pattern said "block carefully".)

And, finally, wish I could take a 10 day cruise.

Un-Dress like an Icon

2007-08-07T06:26:00.000-07:00

Frederick's of Hollywood has a new cover girl for its 2007-2008 holiday collection: Dita Von Teese.

Add the entire collection, sight unseen, to my Christmas list. Santa, I've been so naughty...

Things I want from Boston Proper

2007-07-20T08:53:00.000-07:00

Red wrap dress Black wrap sweater
Black wrap dress
Black ponte jacket
Not terribly, exciting, I know. But they are all good wardrobe staples!

Oh yeah, knitting!

2007-07-05T07:32:00.000-07:00

After having my boyfriend of four years break up with me and asking me to leave our home... After discovering that he had already moved on and was pursuing another woman... After hearing over and over how he didn't cheat on me just because his "intention" was to be friends with her... After moving myself and the cats back to my parents - again... Well, it's been a rough few weeks. I have decided that I NEED to knit.

The good news is that the heartbreak only lasted... a few weeks. Hmm... Much easier to get over than I thought it would be. Bye bye! Back to knitting!

I have been itching to get a project on the needles for weeks. I am determined to start and finish my first "true love" project: the Gedifra entrelac scarf. It WILL be ready by the time it is seasonally appropriate to wear. I have purchased a moderately expensive chaise lounge for my new apartment with comfortable knitting in mind. When I get to decorate (as opposed to "filling the empty spaces with furniture") I am planning to purchase some kind of handy storage for my current project so that it will be neatly and decoratively at hand. I need to make a plan to acquire the appropriate needles, and then skills, to tackle this moderately challenging project. The yarn is beautiful, and costly, and I want it to turn out well. I don't think this wool wrap will be an appropriate commuting project, however.

Having said that, I will also need to start an appropriate commuting project. Would entrelac socks be 'too much'?? I am in desperate need of some fingerless gloves for my painfully cold office. And I have some beautiful verigated merino yarn in a sock/lace-type weight in a beautiful forest-y color way that I wanted to use for a clapotis, perhaps.

But all of my yarn and needles and other happiness is currently trapped in my old, ex-apartment. Sigh. In desperation, my other-mother gave me a skein of acyclic Caron Super Soft in soft blue and a pair of aluminum size 10 straight needles. What am I going to make?

I am going to loop yarn and make a fabric. This fabric will gain its strength from the interconnectedness of each loop. And I will calmly, quietly, and all by myself follow the rules to make a knit stitch over and over. And if I follow the rules, and if all the loops stay together, well then my fabric will have strength.

And so will I.

My Love Predicition

2007-07-05T07:22:00.000-07:00

I have been saved by the overwhelming, indisputable power of the horoscope. Anyone who knows me will tell you - this is totally me.

From today's Daily News:

Love Insight: Taureans lie to take love slow. It's more important for them to secure themselves financially before making commitments to anyone else. They also need a love mate to be their best friend. They're romantic creatures, and will spoil Mr. or Ms. Right like the prince or princess that they'll need to be.

Love Secrets: Irresistable: They're nurturing, with you feeling loved and secure. They are charming, romantic, and dependable.

Irritating: It's true, they can be totally inflexible, impossible to budge, and brood for what seems like an eternity.

Romance: Candles, flowers, lights: It's a well-organized and thought out affair.

Passion: Be patient - it's smoldering and builds one step at a time before going to the next level of love. When it's a perfect match, it's spine-tingling.

Flirt Factor: Subtle, deliberate, forceful and unassuming. Taureans are seductive flirts and they'll have eyes for you only.

Faithfulness: They'll stay forever, unless you're really bad. Trust and friendship keeps her home.

Marriage Material: Absolutely - they are not in for a quick fling. They love stability, so get ready for a long engagement.

I just wish I would learn to take things slow... I always rush in, head over heels. Sigh.

More of me...

2007-07-02T07:46:00.000-07:00

Or, after the last photo, I guess less of me.

Yes, I guess I'm 16 and totally in to myspace. Geez.

My New Place

2007-06-26T16:17:00.001-07:00

bar height. stools fit neatly underneath when not in use.

the bedroom set a chaise for the bedroom

M.E.

2007-06-25T07:38:00.000-07:00

Stolen thoughts on Loss

2007-06-22T06:41:00.001-07:00

This is from Crazy Aunt Purl's massive collection of comments:

It is amazing, as I reflect this morning, how someone can stamp such an impression on our hearts...
yet be so undeserving of that precious space.

Thanks, Dale.

And from CAP herself:

Jo Ann, I have been there. I have, I have. If I could hug you
inappropriately this very moment, I would! Twice!

Buy her book, dammit. Her cats have needs.

More Losses

2007-06-14T08:26:00.000-07:00

So, if anyone is keeping track my boyfriend four years has broken up with me and asked me to vacate our apartment. This would all be somewhat easier if he hadn't decided to start dating his new girlfriend in the few days since he's decided to tell me.

And, another panda was lost.

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - A giant panda at the Memphis Zoo has miscarried, an ultrasound test discovered Wednesday.

Ya Ya, a 6-year-old panda on loan from China, was artificially inseminated in January.

Three other U.S. zoos — San Diego, Washington and Atlanta — have giant pandas. The most recent panda cub born in the U.S. is Mei Lan, who was born in September at the Atlanta zoo.

Sad News: Another Panda Lost

2007-06-01T06:12:00.001-07:00

My day is not going well. I have personal issues with which to contend. I don't have the support that I need or want. And now, after my recent happiness, I read this in the paper:

The first panda bred in captivity and released into the wild has died in China after less than a year... The body of the 5-year-old panda, Xiang Xiang, was found Feb. 19. "Xiang Xiang died of serious internal injuries in the left side of his chest and stomach by falling from a high place," Heng Yi, an official from the Wolong Giant Panda Research Center in Sichuan, said in a telephone interview Thursday. "The scratches and other minor injuries caused by other wild pandas were found on his body," Heng said. "So Xiang Xiang may have fallen from trees when being chased by those pandas."

He said the announcement of the death was delayed because of the need for an investigation.

Zhang Hemin cautions us that this does not mean failure for the project aiming to return captive born pandas to the wild.

I know. But I'm still sad.

Xiang Xiang
"auspicious"

Diamond in the Rough

2007-05-31T06:09:00.000-07:00

A new idea in diamonds? An old idea, with new marketing... Presenting, the Diamond in the Rough.

Quote: Education

2007-05-30T07:10:00.000-07:00

From the recent issue of Selvedge magazine:

Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world. - Nelson Mandela

You have to love the editorial page of a textile magazine that is worth ripping out and quoting. I'm sorry that I won't be renewing my subscription, but I will certainly continue to pick this magazine up in the bookstore.

Ya Ya is Expecting

2007-05-24T07:32:00.000-07:00

The Memphis Zoo has announce that the 6 year old female panda, Ya Ya, is pregnant via artificial insemination performed in January. Since panda gestation is approximately 133 days, Ya Ya is expected to deliver in the next month and a half. More information will be available to the zoological team closer to the panda's delivery date. Right now, Ya Ya remains under 24 hour observation. (She is shown at left, with male friend Le Le.)

Pandas are notoriously poor breeders, in the wild and especially in captivity. For a brief review of the difficulties with panda pregnancy, see this article from ScienCentral News. Excerpted without permission:

The scant patterns that have been found indicate that a pregnant panda’s urine hormones track exactly to a non-pregnant panda’s, except for a four- or five-day period about 30 days before delivery.

The change in hormones is thought to correspond to the implantation of the panda fetus, another mysterious event. Called variable delayed implantation, this phenomenon of pandas means that the embryo floats freely in the uterus until, researchers think, conditions for a successful birth are deemed to be favorable and the fetus implants in the wall of the uterus late in the three-to five-month pregnancy. A human embryo implants within days of fertilization.

Year of the Panda

2007-05-24T07:24:00.001-07:00

The Scientist magazine declares 2007 the Year of the Panda, with a record breaking 19 pandas in kindergarten from last year's record breaking number of births at the Woolong Nature Reserve in China. Wolong director, Hemin Zhang, is cautiously optimistic about the panda's future in the wild. The Chinese government has increased the number of wild reserves from 13 to 59 over the last decade, and the next decade should see the construction of a new captive breeding facility. In addition, plans continue to relase more captive born pandas in to the wild, after the successful release of Xiangxiang in 2006.

The Knittin' Kit

2007-05-18T10:13:00.000-07:00

As much as I am drawn to the beautiful knitting needle cases, or even putting my straight needles in a lovely vase, I have to love the utilitarian functionality of the Knittin' Kit.

For $42.85, you can have a sturdy nylon binder with eight custom pages for

Up to 20 Pairs of Single-Pointed Needles
Up to 20 Double-Pointed Needle Sets of 4
Up to 48 Circular Needles
Up to 20 Crochet Hooks

with room for pattern books and other tools & accessories. Included with each binder is a complete needle and hook conversion chart for metric, U.S., UK & former Canadian sizes.

I need to check it out. Right now, it is sold out on Yarnmarket.

For the record: I hate cutesy spelling of words. It's knittinG, people. America's children already have problems with spoken and written language. No need to make it any more difficult.

Mother's Day Year Round

2007-05-15T07:28:00.000-07:00

One of the things I like about school is that schedules keep my learning on track. Having a set dead line of homework or a test gives me the incentive to learn and process new information. I try to apply the same principles to my life, so that I can be the best person possible.

David Seah created for himself Groundhog's Day resolutions that he revisits each month. Starting with February 2nd (2/2), he continues on 3/3, 4/4, 5/5, etc. to re-assess his goals. I'm stealing this from the Flylady. This year, I am going to dedicate the 13th of each month to honor a special person in my life.

Don't wait for Mother's Day to thank the people in your life that have molded you and the ones that mother you now. Every month on the 13th for the next year; I want you to send a note to one of these people. Get out your calendar and mark this down. This way you won't forget to let them know how much you appreciate what they did and or still do for you! Don't feel sorry for yourself if your mother is no longer here. Pick someone at church or in your neighborhood that needs a kind word. It does not have to be perfect. This is just another way to Pay It Forward!!

What's new at the Museum at FIT

2007-05-07T06:23:00.000-07:00

This Tuesday, 8 May, a book signing and discussion regarding New York Fashion:

NEW YORK FASHION
A booksigning and discussion with Sonnet Stanfill

Victoria & Albert Museum's curator of contemporary fashion, Sonnet Stanfill, will discuss her new book and coinciding exhibition, New York Fashion. The book features the work of Miguel Adrover, Thom Browne, Sean "Diddy' Combs, Derek Lam, Maggie Norris, Alexandre Plokhov for Cloak, Zac Posen, Behnaz Sarafpour, Proenza Schouler, and Three as Four.

Tuesday May 8 from 5-7pm
Barnes & Noble at FIT
227 West 27th Street
Basement Level, between the A & B buildings

Also, graduate students in the Textiles Studies: History program present their work , this time focusing on Fashion Journalism.

Fashion and Textile Studies:
History, Theory, Museum Practice Symposium
Focus on Fashion Journalism

Editors, writers, art directors, web designers, illustrators, photographers, and models all create the first draft of fashion history. Graduate students in the Fashion and Textile Studies: History, Theory, Museum Practice program present original research on the people who have made fashion news, from the 17th century to the present.

Saturday, May 12, 2007 from noon - 6:00pm
Boardroom
Marvin Feldman Center (C Building), 9th floor

Tai Shan to stay at National Zoo for 2 More Years

2007-04-25T06:48:00.000-07:00

Tai Shan, the cub born to the new pair of pandas in Washington D.C.'s National Zoo, will remain in the US for another two years.

Under the original agreement with China, any cubs born to the pair will return to China after their second birthday for breeding.

"As an envoy of goodwill from the Chinese people and a symbol of friendly cooperation between China and the United States, Tai Shan will continue to bring more happiness and delight to the American people, especially the Washingtonians, who care for him and have given him so much love," said Chinese Ambassador Zhou Wenzhong.

Knit skirts, who knew?

2007-04-09T08:43:00.000-07:00

I made a joke in an earlier post about knitted skirts being doomed to failure. Apparently, I am wrong. See this beautiful creation of the very same Indigo Ripples skirt I mentioned from Interweave Knits Spring 2007 by Eunny. She loves it. So do I.

Quote: On "Stuff"

2007-04-08T21:00:00.000-07:00

Have nothing... that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful. - William Morris

My Magazine Subscriptions

2007-04-08T19:36:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned in an earlier post, I will usually only subscribe to a magazine when I wish to save each issue for future reference or enjoyment. If I'm only going to read it once, I try to check it out at a library or browse at a bookstore or newsstand prior to purchasing. Magazines are just too expensive to purchase and then give away or recycle after one reading.

As I went through my magazines today, and rebuilt some of my lost internet bookmarks, I realized that I subscribe to a dozen different magazines. And most of them are up for renewal right now. {sob}

Sewing:
Vogue Pattern Magazines, 6 issues, $14.95 (renewal price)
Sew Today Magazine (McCall/Butterick Patterns), 4 issues, $11.95 (renewal price)
Vogue Fashion Fabrics swatch service, 6 issues, $30
I have subscribed to the two magazines and swatch service for several years now. I am now adding a new sewing magazine, from the makers of Threads (Taunton) which is chock full of practical sewing advice geared toward high fashion garments:
Sew Stylish, 4 issues, $19.95

Knitting:
Vogue Knitting, 4 issues, $19
After the spectacular Spring issue, I'm adding:
Interweave Knits, 5 issues for $21

Fashion:
Vogue just auto-renewed for a year, 12 issues at $19.97. I think the same is true for W and Lucky. I'll have to double check that to finalize my magazine budget information. I consider these magazines the basic in fashion reading. W is my favorite for photography, but Lucky is the most useful in showing me trends in fashion.

Dungeons and Dragons:
Alright, I don't want to hear it. The best investment I make each year is my subscription to Dungeon and Dragon magazines. I have been a continuous subscriber for {check bookshelf} six years. Each month, I eagerly await the arrival of the brand new issue. I read each issue cover to cover (ads included) before I am done. I will often save these magazines for a "special reading occasion" such as a Saturday morning in bed. I also read and reread each issue to the point of abuse. Having said that, I need to renew:
Dragon, 12 issues $38.95
Dungeon, 12 issues $38.95
This is also the ONLY magazine I will ever subscribe to for more than one year at a time, even though there is no discount.

Finally, my only general magazine, Every Day Food. Even though it is a Martha Stewart product, I find the magazine to be simple and down to earth. It contains easy recipes using food that is in season. It also offers freeze ahead suggestions, shopping lists, and general cooking information. I just subscribed to this one.

This year, I have decided not to renew my subscription to Selvedge. Even though it is a beautiful magazine full of interesting information, I've decided to change it to a month to month decision. Also, I will not renew a trial subscription to Pink, a magazine for female executives.

Update:
Okay, for sewing magazines it's $76.85 per year, plus whatever I buy at the bookstore. That's approximately $3.84 for 20 issues.

For knitting magazines, it is $40 for nine issues, or about $4.44 each. But I buy lots of other knitting magazines at the bookstore.

For Dungeons and Dragons, I spend $77.90 for a year, or $3.25 an issue. That's a steal for the amount of times I've read these magazines.

Right now, we're looking at a sub-total of $194.75 a year and 53 magazines.

What's so fascinating about entrelac?

2007-04-08T19:09:00.000-07:00

What is so fascinating to me about entrelac? I don't know, but it's neat.

Criminy Jickets Garterlac Dishcloth pattern is available for free.
The entrelac socks from Interweave Knits Spring 2007 issue is scrumptious in Koigu. I could be naked and just wear these socks. {drool}Then, there is the original inspiration for my entrelac obsession, and a definite MUST KNIT. From Gedifra Highlights 043, pattern 618.
And, also from Gedifra, the entrelac sweater. And it's shown in a green colorway! Woot!

Knitting Technique: Socks

2007-04-08T19:05:00.000-07:00

Why I want to learn how to knit socks:

1) It was what originally drew me to knitting.

2) I love funky, original socks.

3) Sock yarns are gorgeous.

4) It is a very portable project.

5) Socks provide a quick sense of accomplishment.

6) Socks are always practical.

Stitchdiva Pattern: Goddess

2007-04-08T19:03:00.000-07:00

I'm undecided on this pattern. It caught (and still catches) my eye as sexy knitting. Plus, the description makes it sound like a good learning experience. I'm just afraid that if this project goes wrong, that it would go very wrong...

Interweave Knits Spring 2007

2007-04-08T18:10:00.000-07:00

This issue of Interweave Knits for Spring 2007 has strengthened my desire for a subscription. Available on the bottom of the web page is an offer for 5 issues (a year plus one) for $21 for US subscribers. When I know a magazine is going to be consistently high quality, with issues worth saving to refer to again and again, then I don't mind subscribing.

First, one item I may actually some day be able to knit: entrelac socks. Here in two colors of Koigu. It uses six skeins. I probably can't afford these socks.

Here is the lovely Swan Lake Cardigan by Joan McGowan Micheal from White Lies Designs. The added touch of sewn ruffles at the sleeve and bottom edge makes this item a standout. I would love to have this in my wardrobe to dress up or dress down. Also from a favorite designer. a tank from Wenlan Chia of Twinkle and Twinkle's Big City Knits. Although I am not fond of this tank, I had an opportunity to browse this book at a local bookstore today and found it full of original and exotic ideas. But I'm just not sure I'll be able to knit anything in the book. Another item that caught my eye was a simple skirt with lace border pattern in a denim yarn. Why am I fascinated by knit skirts? Am I just dooming myself to failure? Also, seems good on paper: a knit bandeau.
Finally, file this final pattern under the category of "Wow! I can't believe I knit that!" If I made this capelet with its cables and bobbles and delicate bobble edging, I would force innocent strangers on the street to stop and admire my mad skills.

Lost My Blogs!

2007-03-29T08:29:00.000-07:00

In an attempt to safely secure my large collection of bookmarks, I have (of course!) deleted them all.

If anyone would care to share their favorite knitting blogs in the comments, I would be most grateful. Extra karma for blogs that feature cats or bloggers that are in or around New York.

Should I take this time to let everyone know that I had my first computer when I was like, nine years old? Over twenty years ago?? (My father worked for what was AT&T at the time, and was there to experience the creation of what we called "IBM clones." If all of this is ancient history to you, pick up Soul of the Machine by Tracy Kidder. This Pulitzer-prize winning book tells the tale of the birth of the home computer industry, and is also a great read from a management perspective. Good stuff.)

Let's all take a moment to thank AT&T, and Bell Laboratories, for their part in the computer revolution.

AT&T Computer, circa 1987. It runs Unix! It has a color monitor - green! Woot!

Death of Panda Yan Yan

2007-03-28T07:09:00.000-07:00

Female panda Yan Yan passed away yesterday, 27 March 2007, at the Berlin Zoo. She was 22 years old. The zoo has not yet released any information regarding her cause of death. She is survived by her breeding partner Bao Bao, 27, the oldest living male panda in captivity. They produced no offspring during their 12 years together.

Yan Yan, 2003

This week at the Museum at FIT

2007-03-27T18:06:00.000-07:00

Hats 101

Thursday, March 29 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Marvin Feldman Center (C-Building), 9th floor Boardroom

Berets, beanies, and baseball caps . . . all familiar terms, but have you ever wondered what a cloche is or what a milliner does? Join Ellen Goldstein, chairperson of Accessory Design at FIT, for an illustrated lecture on the artistry and allure of hats and hatmaking. "Hats 101" is offered in conjunction with the exhibition Lilly Daché: Glamour at the Drop of a Hat.

First FO (knitting) ever!

2007-03-17T08:53:00.000-07:00

For my first project that I could actually knit, I chose the The Big Net Oversize Scarf Stole, a free pattern from Crystal Palace. I loved the dramatic size and wonderful texture of the design. Plus, it is a very simple pattern in garter stitch and fringe. While the original was in a monochromatic white, I planned mine in three shades of dark blue. I purchased the three yarns from various sources online including eBay.

Accidentally, however, I purchased Crystal Palace Summer Net yarn in Light Periwinkle Grape instead of Big Net yarn which drastically changed the scale of the project. Also, the three yarns did not go together in real life the same way they did on my monitor. Rather than be disappointed, I knit one scarf with the three skeins of Summer Net with a Crystal Palace Glam Lapis Violet fringe, and a second scarf with the two skeins of Crystal Palace Raggedy Lagoon. Both were knit in garter stitch on size 19 plastic needles purchased for this project. I knit these two scarves while commuting to and from work on New York City public transportation, so I am not certain exactly how long it took for me to complete.

Knitting these scarves kept me sane during a five hour daily commute and miserable (but thankfully short-lived) job. Although the scarf knit with Summer Net is attractive, it is purely decorative and not really to my taste. I'm not sure if I will ever wear it. My friend Carolyn likes it, though - maybe I will give it to her. The scarf knit with Raggedy produced a warm, soft and dense fabric I found to be quite attractive and functional. I wore it with my two blue suits for recent job interviews during the unseasonably cold weather these past three weeks. I can't wait to knit with ribbon or tape yarn again.

pictures of FO will be posted soon

My Knitting Autobiography

2007-03-16T17:30:00.001-07:00

I consider myself fortunate to be part of a family of talented, creative people. I myself have dabbled in a few crafts, mostly fiber crafts, since I was a toddler. I failed miserably at crochet as a youngster, and proceeded to convince myself that I could never knit. After all, knitting used TWO needles.

A few years ago, I became intrigued by the notion of crocheting or knitting socks after looking at a Mary Maxim catalog of my mother's. I immediately fell in love with the colorful, self striping sock yarns. It's magic! And I love funky patterns, wild colors, and knee highs. I put "learn to knit / crochet socks" on my someday / maybe list and promptly forgot about it.

Fast forward to 2005. I was working at a mind numbing job and in a wonderful, stable relationship for the first time in my life. And I was bored silly. I would come home from work, cook dinner, clean up and be completely "done" by 6 o'clock. The hours until bedtime seemed to drag. I became so obsessed with housework (Monday is recycling! Tuesday I clean the bathrooms!) that I drove my boyfriend crazy. "Get a hobby!" my boyfriend demanded lovingly. Among other things, I decided to teach myself to knit.

Being the anti-social type, I purchased two books: Stitch and Bitch and Teach Yourself Visually Knitting and Crocheting. I also purchased a random size of bamboo needles (I still don't know what size they are - 3? Smaller than 5, anyway...) and a large skein of practice acrylic Red Heart Super-Saver yarn in Delft Blue. And then with the text from S&B and the beautiful photos from Visually, I taught myself to cast on, knit, and purl. I made a conscious decision to learn continental style, since based on Debbie Stoller's description it seemed more efficient. I made various bright blue, acrylic swatches. My boyfriend asked if I was ever going to knit something. For me, I was just enjoying the act of knitting.

Then, I became bold and decided to order a project. I picked what seemed to be a simple poncho from Mary Maxim. Sadly, before I even received my kit in the mail, Martha Stewart decided to leave prison in what became the infamous "Freedom Poncho". And I realized that I could never, ever wear my poncho in public. Or, at least not for a very long time. So I had 6 skeins of Bernat Solo in Rustic and a pair of Susan Bates size 15 aluminum needles to start my stash.

It was at this time that I became obsessed with all things knitting: mainly knitting blogs, patterns and yarn. Amazing, beautiful yarn in all of its infinite creation. In all of my fiber arts, my favorite part has always been the textiles themselves - the fabric, ribbon, or yarn - and the multitude of creative possibilities that each item possesses.

I started reading a few blogs, good friends, that I still read today (and every day.) Laurie from Crazy Aunt Purl, Stephanie from Yarn Harlot, Kate from Fiber Fever... And I purchased my second project pattern and yarn. A Gedifra entrelac scarf that I still cannot knit.
Pattern: 618 from Gedifra Highlights 042
Yarn: Gedifra Fashion Trend Stripe 4679

Around this time, I decided to go back to college to obtain my Bachelors Degree. I started a program at Berkeley College for Fashion Marketing and Merchandising. Knitting was forced to compete with sleep, cleaning, and seeing my family in little was left of my time. When I picked up knitting again, I found that I could no longer knit continental and started to knit American. But I was determined to pick a project and actually knit something.

Keds has new Panda kicks

2007-03-14T10:44:00.000-07:00

I will die if I do not buy these sneakers immediately. The pandas are subtle and adorable, and green is my favorite color.

From the Keds website:

Keds collaborates with rock poster artist Eleanor Grosch on a whimsical collection of shoes. Eleanor's signature is her use of bold colors in simple designs, with animals as graphic elements. These combination of colors and critters make her shoes fashionable and fun.

Also available in parrot, owl, frog, camel, and duck. Retail price is $39.99.

Update: My awesome wonderful boyfriend bought them for me the same day. When they arrive, I will post a review and additional pictures.