Archive for Opinion
Hope Elizabeth · 08/23/06 at 7:23 pm · Filed under Opinion
Have you seen the sock patterns at Northern Sunshine Designs? They are absolutely beautiful and, in my opinion, very reasonably priced. Right now there’s a Summer Sale going on - buy 2 patterns, get 2 free. Of course you know what that means. Yes, it means that I had to buy two patterns. I ordered Cedar Bark and Green Oats. For freebies, I asked for Waterfalls and Aspen. I’ve ordered Darlene’s patterns before, so I know I’ll be pleased with them. You should really check out Northern Sunshine Designs. I’m pretty sure you’ll like what you see.
Oh, and by the way, while you’re out there you should also check out the Apple Laine Yarn. The MacIntosh and the Godiva are simply scrumptious! I love the Garden Party too. I’ve never tried this brand of yarn, but I’m seriously considering getting a couple of skeins after our finances recover from school shopping. Maybe I’ll make it a birthday present to myself in October - something fun to look forward to.
Hope Elizabeth · 06/24/06 at 11:42 pm · Filed under Opinion
My mother is down this weekend and she brought me a fabulous new book from Leisure Arts called Spa & Bath Sets to Knit. It’s from Rhonda White, creator of the wonderful Knitting Knonsense website and I think it’s definitely a book worth checking out.
This book contains 16 projects and they’re all double pretty - as in pretty to look at and pretty easy to do. The patterns are perfect for those semi-new knitters who are looking to do a bit more than knit a straight scarf, but they’re also exciting enough for those more advanced knitters who want to complete a lovely gift basket for someone in just a couple of days. Each spa set includes a facecloth, a soap sack, and a bath mitt. There’s also a pattern for a great little headband that you could match to each set. Add a bar of handmade soap to whatever you create and you’ll have yourself one heckuva awesome holiday gift.
I’m not sure which of the 5 patterns is my favorite, Sunrays or Paradise, but it’s okay - I plan on knitting both of them! I have no doubt that, should you purchase this book, you’ll find yourself wanting to knit a few sets as well.
Hope Elizabeth · 06/10/06 at 12:24 pm · Filed under Opinion
My mother gave me a wonderful gift today: Mason-Dixon Knitting by Kay Gardiner and Ann Meador Shayne. It’s a beautiful book and I couldn’t help but sit down and read through every bit of it.
To begin with, the story of Kay and Ann’s developing friendship is a wonderful addition to the book. It turns what some might consider simply a book of patterns into a book you can happily enjoy with a cup of coffee. While I was reading it I found myself nodding and thinking “I can do that! And that too!” instead of shaking in my shoes and wondering if I was getting myself in way over my head. That’s how comfortable these women make you feel, like you can accomplish anything. It makes you want to grab your needles and make ‘em proud.
If the wonderful stories and casual way of speaking to their audience isn’t enough of a draw, these ladies have come up with some spectacular patterns and ideas to share. Their Nina Shawl is beautiful in each of its many moods and I already have plans to try their Circle-of-Fun Rug. Dishcloths to towels, baby bibs to blankets - I really believe there’s something in this book for everyone to try and enjoy. You can even read about knitting with potholder loops and old t-shirts! Can you imagine?
I could go on-and-on about this book, but I’m afraid all it would do is make you jealous. I think the best thing you could do for yourself is get your own copy of Mason-Dixon Knitting. And once you do, remember to enjoy it with a cold drink, an open mind and a warm heart.
Hope Elizabeth · 06/01/06 at 10:33 pm · Filed under Opinion
I received Leigh Radford’s book One Skein in the mail today and it’s a beautiful book. There are some wonderful patterns in there, one of my favorites being the Geometric Accessory Bags - especially the bobble bag. Most of the projects look easy enough for those of us who are beginners or advanced beginners. I’ve already picked out a few projects to do over the summer when I’m in need of some instant gratification. I definitely want to make the bobble bag and I love the angora-blend baby hat. The labyrinth rug and cable booties are also very nice.
This book could keep me busy for awhile - a long while. You should definitely check it out. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
