My Honey -- Sweater #6

Aptly named, My Honey is a lovely little cardigan for girls.  The designer, Elena Nodel, offers this cardigan in either short or long sleeves.  We chose short sleeves for this one, but I think I will be making a long sleeve version at some point as well.  This was my first Mystery KAL and I'm hooked!

Pattern:  My Honey by Elena Nodel

Yarn:  Brown Sheep Cotton Fleece in Prairie Lupine

I liked working with the Cotton Fleece, but I purchased it off Ebay as "seconds".  The description on Ebay said that they dye may not have been completed run out and there could be some variations in the yarn.  The skein I used for the lace and yoke sections have what appears to be bleach spots.  I'm as thrifty as the next girl, but maybe I shouldn't purchase "seconds" anymore...

Classic Raglan -- Sweater #5

I can't tell you how much I adore this pattern!  It's easy, comfortable, and fits perfectly.  I have already bought the yarn for another one and have an idea as to what modifications I'd like to make.  The designer, Jane Richmond, has a great selection of extremely wearable patterns.  I think I'm slowly making my way through all of them!  =)

Pattern: Ladies Classic Raglan Pullover by Jane Richmond

Yarn: Patons Classic Wool in Aran

The pattern calls for Patons Classic Wool, which I used, but for #2 I've decided on Cascade 220 Worsted Wool.  I haven't used it yet and am really looking forward to it.  The colorway I chose, Peacock, is a beautiful heathered yarn of royal blue, purple and green.  I'm really trying hard to save that project for late summer but every time I look through my yarn I want to cast this on again!

The more sweaters I'm making, the more I'm loving top-down and seamless.  Just the thought of having to make a sweater in pieces and sewing them together has me scheming and calculating my way into a seamless version!  Top-down construction is great because you are able to try it on as you knit and lessen any chance of having to rip out all your hard work.

Spring Break Dishcloth

For the first time in 4 years, Shane and I are planning on taking a vacation.  Getaway might be the better word, since we'll only be "on vacation" for 2 days, 3 nights but really....who am I to complain?!?  He has a work conference at a Disney World resort of all places.  That has to be one of my favorite places in the world but since we've decided that this will be a Mommy-and-Daddy-only vacation, we won't be entering the House of Mouse until Loreli is with us.  But, we'll be flying out 2 days before the conference begins to get a few days of fun in the sun by the pool while Loreli stays with her grandma.  I'm very torn emotionally -- I'm very much looking forward to some husband and wife bonding time, especially since we will be celebrating our anniversary while we're away, but my heart constricts every time I think about leaving my little girl.  I miss her already!

Anyway, back to the dishcloth!  Since I've been dreaming about this getaway for a few months now, it's no wonder I came up with this palm tree design!  I can't wait to see these beautiful trees in person -- it has been too long!  =)

This pattern is available to purchase as a PDF file for $1.50. This pattern is available to purchase on Ravelry, but please note that you do not need an account to purchase it. Just click on the link below and it will take you directly to Paypal.

Shoulder Warmer - Sweater #4

My 4th sweater came along more out of necessity than anything else!  The weather cooled down to more typical spring weather for Wisconsin, so my new Easter outfit I had planned on wearing was no longer the best choice.  I thought this little shrug would look cute with my outfit and while the shrug itself turned out great, it didn't really look right with my new outfit....sad....

However, with the right top and accessories, I think it will be a staple for the rest of spring and summer, especially in air conditioned restaurants and movie theaters.  Here are the details:

Pattern: Top Down Shoulder Warmer by Laura Chau

Yarn: Knit Picks Comfy Worsted in Ivory

I used the notes from a fellow Raveler on making this a seamless sweater, as the pattern itself has you knitting the sleeves flat and sewing them together.

I know it's been awhile since I've posted a dishcloth pattern, so stay tuned later this week for that!  =)

Saffron -- Sweater #3

Sweater #3 for 2012 was for Loreli.  I really couldn't resist when I saw this cute little pattern!  The 3/4 length sleeves are perfect right now for the in-between-seasons weather we've been having and she has a new found love for dresses, so this is perfect for keeping her arms warm.

Pattern: Saffron by Elena Nodel

Yarn: Cotlin in Cerise by Knit Picks

I'm currently knitting up another pattern by Elena -- a Mystery KAL and I'm so in love! Probably one of the cutest cardigan's I've made for Loreli so far.  =)