tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-305271792024-03-23T14:28:44.912-04:00knits & piecesjennahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13013653678324289584noreply@blogger.comBlogger155125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30527179.post-74485181864460607172009-03-28T12:40:00.002-04:002009-03-28T13:10:13.347-04:00i've moved!!I recently moved this blog to a new address. I still plan on blogging about my knitting, but it was time to create a space where I can blog about my jewelry and all the non-knitting stuff I'm interested in, as well! It just seemed like an appropriate time to get rid of the knitting-themed title. All my posts from this blog have been moved over (I think), so please update your bookmarks---hope to see you there! :)<br /><br />New blog: <a href="http://smallbirdblog.wordpress.com/">http://smallbirdblog.wordpress.com/</a>jennahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13013653678324289584noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30527179.post-30046364291802892892009-03-10T19:58:00.004-04:002009-03-10T20:58:04.315-04:00yes. deer.<a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3392/3345629580_8f9bb6768d.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 386px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 500px" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3392/3345629580_8f9bb6768d.jpg" border="0" /></a>To everything there is a season, and sometimes, in life, you just have to make a deer head. I am smitten with all things antlers these days, and probably have more <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/knitchick2/3310479628/" target="blank">deer-head-type things</a> hanging on my walls that I ought, none of which are made from actual deer parts, FYI. I really have to learn how to edit, but this was love at first sight. What can you do?<br /><br />I stumbled across <a href="http://www.chroniclebooks.com/blog/?p=2643" target="blank">this project</a> while browsing my daily blogs, and immediately sent the link to my most crafty friend. Within minutes, this crafty friend was standing before me saying, "We have to make them." And I said, "Yes." And she said, "But we should make them out of wood." And I said, "Absolutely." Yep, that's pretty much how it started.<br /><br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3321/3344894423_18bd088abe.jpg"></a>First, a mini <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">foamcore</span> deer head prototype was created (more out of deer head project excitement than anything else, really), and revealed that the proportions of the pattern do NOT match the proportions of the deer head in the project photo. And the slits are not the correct depth for keeping all the parts aligned properly. So together we redesigned some of the pieces, correctly measured the depth of the slits, created a new pattern, and started searching for materials. My friend is much more of a grown up than I, so she actually owns power tools AND, most importantly, a place to make a mess. So we gathered our materials and got together for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Woodshop</span> Saturday! 2 band saws, 1 jigsaw, 1 belt sander, 1 electric hand sander, 1 D<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">remel</span>, some sweat, little to no blood, zero tears, and a couple bagels later we had our deer head pieces.<br /><br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3321/3344894423_18bd088abe.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 375px" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3321/3344894423_18bd088abe.jpg" border="0" /></a><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Ok</span>, I glossed over the hard parts. The project was actually more challenging than we had anticipated. But I hadn't played with power tools in a very long time, so it was WAY fun. Would I do it again? Probably not. Am I glad I did it the first time? Oh, you betcha.<br /><br />My friend's deer head will likely remain as is, with just the natural wood grain, perhaps just a clear coat to finish it. She has what's known as "good taste." For me, when it comes to stylized deer hear wall hangings, I tend to go big or go home. I chose some fabulous, kitschy, flocked paper that I found <a href="http://bradleypaper.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=BradleyPaper&Product_Code=6777&Category_Code=flocked" target="blank">here</a>, and spent quite a bit of time gluing, trimming, and painting the exposed edges. In retrospect, I should have cut the slits a bit wider. I had a nice, snug fit after all my cutting, which was shot all to heck when it scraped up my beautiful paper upon assembly. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Argh</span>. But I worked with it, finally got the thing together, disguised the mistakes, and the overall result is pretty <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">flippin</span>' sweet, if I do say so, myself. :)<br /><br />I wish I had a better photo of the deer head. Alas, there is no light. There is only rain.jennahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13013653678324289584noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30527179.post-36565167968038093772009-02-23T07:30:00.004-05:002009-02-23T07:44:52.507-05:00paper 'n stitchRecently, a friend of mine (frustrated by searching the entire internet for handmade items) wondered how you find the "good" handmade stuff. One of my suggestions was <a href="http://www.papernstitch.com/" target="blank">Paper 'n Stitch</a>. If you're not already familiar with the site, Paper 'n Stitch describes itself as "an online exhibition space for talented artists, designers, makers selling handmade goods, and independent boutiques." In other words, the <em>good stuff</em>. Since the exhibition rotates monthly, I'm continually adding to my collection of favorite indie shops! I'm very excited that <a href="http://www.papernstitch.com/shop/small-bird" target="blank">my shop</a> will be featured in the latest Paper 'n Stitch exhibition, which runs Feb 23rd - March 22nd. However, the items that appear on Paper'n Stitch are only a sampling of what's available in the actual <a href="http://www.smallbirdjewelry.com/"target=blank>Small Bird Jewelry</a> shop. The shop was recently updated, so some favorite items have been restocked, and several brand new items have been listed, as well!<br /><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5305809974851178626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 120px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUWWtZP5sjmB2Z7JKR8LC6afPokQoQofWf0mNQ7rpc1LAkon8ac4ze7TcfO-D12exkWaUWbFYhhx_X5_x3hV8Yr-O4Hvsv5uW3zSGfgdfUCWYkNF4nBn9ENeYHFpYAforHDkYy/s320/button_pns.jpg" border="0" /><br />And I'd be delighted if you'd vote for my shop as your favorite! Just visit <a href="http://www.papernstitch.com/shop/small-bird" target="blank">my shop at Paper 'n Stitch </a>and click on the cute little heart icon by my shop logo.<br /><br />One of the new items in my shop is the <a href="http://shop.smallbirdjewelry.com/product/green-sea-glass-ring" target="blank">Green Sea Glass Ring</a>. I'm sort of completely in love with it. I don't remember exactly what made me want to experiment with sea glass in the first place, but all of a sudden I just had to try it. There's something I love about the <em>idea</em> of sea glass...knowing that it was once sleek and shiny and mass-produced and carelessly cast aside, and that nature has turned it into something lovely and organic and soothing and translucent and soft and dreamy and one of a kind. </p><p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 500px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3519/3296331804_19f0399c95.jpg" border="0" /></p><p>Yeah...maybe that's what made me want to use sea glass. </p>jennahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13013653678324289584noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30527179.post-49564072934831522742009-02-17T19:03:00.003-05:002009-02-17T19:45:10.117-05:00NO PEEKING, Erin!!!I finished the first of several baby knits. I'm saying "several" because the list keeps growing. And changing. And growing. I've been getting so excited about all these new people I'm going to meet (you know, when they finally get born) and suddenly baby knits are so stinkin' cute! And have you smelled that baby aisle in the grocery store??? It's heaven. I might have baby fever. Make that: Other People's Babies Fever.<br /><br /><br />I wish I could knit heirloom lace cashmere afghans for each and every one of these babies, but I'd go bananas. Plus there are so many cute baby things to be ordered online! Some of the baby stuff on Etsy is impossible to resist. So for baby gift #1, I kept the knitting small, but I think mom-to-be will appreciate the entire ensemble. Now, I realize that there are people out there who may be somewhat horrified at the thought of dressing a teensy little bundle of joy this way, but Mom has a tattoo of a flaming roller skate, and in all likelihood, there's a mohawk in this kid's not-so-distant future, so you can see why it was the right thing to do.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3615/3289173984_1cfd645926.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 307px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 500px" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3615/3289173984_1cfd645926.jpg" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3220/3289175936_4d31f7b7f3.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 339px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 500px" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3220/3289175936_4d31f7b7f3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><div></div><div> </div><div>I used just a fraction of a skein of Brown Sheep Nature Spun Worsted on size 6 needles. You can find the free hat pattern <a href="http://www.kittyville.com/knit/devil_hat.html" target="blank">here</a>, the onesie <a href="http://www.punkbabyclothes.net/" target="blank">here</a>, and mom-to-be <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6170250" target="blank">here</a> and <a href="http://knitordie.blogspot.com/" target="blank">here</a>.</div><div></div><div> </div><div>(Erin, did you peek? They should make "punkling" onesies in your size. :P)</div>jennahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13013653678324289584noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30527179.post-6772755899020830302009-01-27T18:06:00.004-05:002009-01-27T18:25:36.535-05:00the babies are coming!Everyone I know is pregnant. Everyone. Ok, not <em>everyone</em>, but I know 4 babies that are arriving this spring, all within weeks of each other! Seem like a lot of babies to me.<br /><br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3508/3223750330_4359ec2cfb.jpg"></a>The best part is, one of these babies is going to be my first niece or nephew---I'm going to be an aunt! I'm reallyreallyreally excited. (reallyreallyreallyreally...) Of course I'm going to knit for the little peanut, but I kinda can't help shopping in the meantime.<br /><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 498px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3508/3223750330_4359ec2cfb.jpg" border="0" /><br />Yes, I bought my niecephew a <a href="http://www.smallbirdjewelry.com/" target="blank">Small Bird</a> onesie. Turns out, they'll print <em>anything you want</em> on a onesie. With options like that, my sister and brother-in-law are lucky that my business logo is the only thing I tried to put on their kid! (For now.) And my sister loved it. And this is why I love my sister. Because I can cheapen the miracle of life by attempting to turn her firstborn child into a living business card and she thinks it's as funny as I do. ;) Actually, she thinks it's pretty cute, too. But I should really knit this kid something good if I expect to get away with this kind of nonsense.<br /><br />I'm trying to get my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/knitchick2/assemblage" target="blank">Assemblage</a> cardigan under control before I start my baby garment factory. But I have several patterns <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/knitchick2" target="blank">all lined up</a> and some of the yarn is already here and I'm having a very hard time NOT casting on. Cuteness...it is hard to resist.jennahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13013653678324289584noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30527179.post-87144495769510400172009-01-24T16:53:00.002-05:002009-01-24T17:12:55.563-05:00lace legwarmers<a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3081/3223762272_cff4f49545.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 360px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 500px" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3081/3223762272_cff4f49545.jpg" border="0" /></a>I completed my first finished knit of 2009! Yes, the legwarmers turned out ok. More than ok, actually. I am still aggravated by the yarn requirement issue in the <a href="http://www.classiceliteyarns.com/pdf/AlpacaSoxLegwarmers.pdf" target="blank">pattern</a> (see mods and gripes in my <a href="http://knits-and-pieces.blogspot.com/2009/01/it-was-going-so-well.html" target="blank">previous post</a>), but after blocking, they are 16" in total length, which is just right for how I want to wear them. And the yarn itself is really soft and a very pretty, natural color. So overall, I'm happy with the finished product! The process? Not so much. But as I said before, this project was all about the product anyway. All's well that ends well. Heh. Legwarmers...who would've thought?<br /><br />More pics on <a href="http://flickr.com/photos/knitchick2/3223759228/in/photostream/" target="blank">Flickr</a>.jennahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13013653678324289584noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30527179.post-11710854137020210792009-01-22T08:49:00.004-05:002009-01-22T09:24:46.817-05:00...it was going so well...<a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3111/3200273436_ce5af522a4.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 375px" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3111/3200273436_ce5af522a4.jpg" border="0" /></a>As soon as I saw <a href="http://www.classiceliteyarns.com/pdf/AlpacaSoxLegwarmers.pdf" target="blank">this</a> pattern I knew I desperately needed legwarmers. (And cowboy boots, please.) The lace pattern is pretty and easily memorized, although this project was really all about product rather than process. I modified the pattern slightly, since I wanted them to be the knee-high, rather than over the knee, so I knit 9 pattern repeats and 1/5" of ribbing at each end, even though the pattern wanted them to be about 4" longer. I also eliminated the increases, as the lace pattern seemed stretchy enough. It is important that I point out how much <em>less</em> knitting I did so that you understand how frustrated I was when I realized I was definitely going to run out of yarn after only 8 pattern repeats on the second legwarmer!! Argh! Come ON! And then the yarn circus began. I had to rip out the top of the second legwarmer, take it down to 8 pattern repeats, then divide up the yarn I had left over both legwarmers...oh! but you have to double the yarn just on the ribbed cuffs, so I had long pieces of yarn stretched through my house, then doubled back, which make the cat go berserk, which made me yell. So I <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">reknit</span> the cuffs on both legwarmers, decreasing 10 stitches on the first round, and making them a bit shorter than the pattern called for.<br /><div></div><br /><div>Moral of the Story #1: if you are going to knit these legwarmers, get TWO (2) skeins of Classic Elite Alpaca <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Sox</span>!!! The one skein that the pattern calls for does not even come close, <em>especially</em> if you want to wear them over the knee, like the pattern photo. I don't know what they were thinking.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Moral #2: Check the pattern notes from other <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Ravelers</span> BEFORE you start a project. I looked at other knitters' projects AFTER I was already frustrated and ripping and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">reknitting</span>, and it turned out I was not alone; most people were frustrated by the yarn shortage in this pattern. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>So they're blocking, and they look pretty, and I think they'll be just fine for the way I want to wear them, but we'll see.</div>jennahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13013653678324289584noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30527179.post-71484830805457135662009-01-01T11:38:00.004-05:002009-01-01T12:16:07.822-05:00new year, new shop!I'm excited to announce that my brand new <a href="http://www.smallbirdjewelry.com/" target="blank">Small Bird Jewelry</a> site is finally up and running! I've been working behind the scenes for a while, and I'm still doing a bit of tweaking here and there, but for the most part, things are good to go and the shop is open for business!<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286374373303278610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 95px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-MOqtSSYRIoNYbcOYOrqU4tAHgMlLesQDZbUDbdWQfw8gf74lifUZ0DtyZ_3xEMkyBGZUjoB9cn09Gjew0vu0c89JxKTQ59D8IOPADai3212JyfEmnElwSyDX9wZVS1limwnA/s400/smallbirdbigcartbanner4.jpg" border="0" /><br />I've been selling on Etsy for close to two years, and my time there has been great. I've learned a lot and grown a lot, but after considering all the pros and cons, I felt that it was time to move forward. Just a bit. I'm reluctant and even a little sad to leave Etsy. It's been Small Bird's first and only home...I'm comfortable there...<em>you</em> know how to find me there...and there's something rather nice about being part of the Etsy neighborhood. But I've already started moving items from the Etsy shop to the Small Bird shop, and soon <a href="http://www.smallbirdjewelry.com/">www.smallbirdjewelry.com</a> will be my new online home. I'm excited to have my own little piece of The Internets, but I'm kind of nervous--I feel like I'm moving to a place where I don't really know anyone, so I do hope you'll come visit me in my new digs! Be sure to update your bookmarks and subscribe to the <a href="http://shop.smallbirdjewelry.com/products.rss" target="blank">Small Bird RSS feed</a> to see the latest item listings.<br /><br />I know that you guys--knitters and bloggers--have made up the vast majority of my customers, and I can't thank you enough for your support and kind words and encouragement as I've attempted to grow my little jewelry business.<br /><br />Happy New Year! I hope 2009 holds good things for you.jennahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13013653678324289584noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30527179.post-8547403232054925662008-12-28T22:31:00.003-05:002008-12-28T23:00:46.080-05:00post-christmas updateThe <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">handknit</span> Christmas gift were a hit! BOTH pairs of socks fit (miracle) and both sisters loved the cowls. When my sister opened the Tapestry Cowl, she was initially disappointed...<em>because she didn't think it was <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">handknit</span>.</em> Which is, of course, the very BEST compliment. :)<br /><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 363px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3219/3146282768_1565e17a5a.jpg" border="0" />During my various Christmas family gatherings I found a little time to knit and actually finished the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/spiral-cowl-2" target="blank">Spiral Cowl</a> for myself. It was a quick, easy, enjoyable knit; just what I needed after my Christmas knitting mania. It's intentionally knit a bit on the larger side, so that it can either be worn loose or gathered and buttoned around your neck. Luckily, I had one leather button leftover from the Chevron Cowl. I used 2 skeins of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Berroco</span> Ultra Alpaca Light in Oceanic Mix on size 6 needles. And I just love a picot edge.<br /><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 491px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3202/3144101393_461f4e663b.jpg" border="0" /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 442px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3237/3144932918_a824cd7925.jpg" border="0" /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 477px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 500px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3256/3144934516_299683ac07.jpg" border="0" /> Just a couple more pics on <a href="http://flickr.com/photos/knitchick2/3144931018/in/set-72157603676231910/" target="blank"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Flickr</span></a>.jennahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13013653678324289584noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30527179.post-22248711026360196382008-12-24T08:52:00.003-05:002008-12-24T09:50:29.062-05:00Christmas finish lineI made it. This was the year I thought it really might not happen, but I finished the Christmas knitting.<br /><br />I made another pair of Log Cabin Socks from Handknit Holidays. I knit a pair for my brother-in-law, and this pair is for my dad. I used chunky yarn on size 9 needles, and followed the directions for the woman's size. (Heh, don't tell my dad I knit him girl socks!) Initially, I used the chunky yarn on size 9's and knit the man's size, but they were clearly too big, so I ripped almost an entire sock and reknit using the smaller size. This is the first time I've ever knit socks and actually, they knit up pretty quickly (Love you, chunky yarn!) but I'm still not sure how well they're going to fit. I guess I'll find out tomorrow morning!<br /><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 369px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3293/3132559355_e54605cf9d.jpg" border="0" /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 343px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3091/3132559427_b64c2b0843.jpg" border="0" /><br />Which leaves...(dramatic pause)...the <a href="http://pepperknit.com/patterns/tapestrycowl.html" target="blank">Tapestry Cowl</a>. My knitting nemesis. Oh, boy. I realized pretty early on that I may not necessarily <em>enjoy</em> knitting this pattern, but little did I know I would come to dislike it so. But I should clarify. I LOVE the pattern, I despised the knitting. I think the real issue is that I probably don't enjoy colorwork in general...as much as I wish it weren't true. So having to constantly focus all my attention on the double knitting chart was exhausting. It's complex (which is what makes it so beautiful!) so I couldn't take my eyes off of it or even let my mind wander for a second, lest I screw it all up and have to tink back. And really, I like to do most of my knitting in a state of semi-consciousness, eyes glued to some trashy reality tv show on Bravo. That's just how I roll. So that's one of the reasons that the Tapestry Cowl and I did not get along. But since I chose to knit this as a Christmas gift, having that deadline looming made it that much more frustrating. Yar. Now, if the pattern wasn't <em>absolutely exquisite</em>, I may have quit halfway through. And if you already love colorwork and you get a kick out of impressing the commoners with your crazy knitting prowess, this is the pattern for you! I'm sure many knitters would find this pattern incredibly enjoyable. On that note, the double knitting itself? Well, that's quite the little fancypants technique, that is! It is pretty cool to wind up with a reversible piece of fabric. So I was rather intrigued by the process (if only for a moment) and I did like using the Berocco Ultra Alpaca Fine, so...there's that.<br /><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 322px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3201/3132559497_b53c8eb33f.jpg" border="0" /> <img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 348px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3243/3133382718_138526c9bd.jpg" border="0" /> I hope I remember to take pictures of the handknit gifts in action...<br /><br />Merry Christmas!jennahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13013653678324289584noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30527179.post-40725304886454207862008-12-21T11:19:00.003-05:002008-12-21T11:35:49.018-05:00no time to talk<div><div><div>Two more <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Christmas</span> gifts DOWN!<br /><br />I finished an <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">entrelac</span> scarf for my Nana. I love how pretty <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">entrelac</span> looks after it blocks. That's all. More details on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/knitchick2/entrelac-scarf" target="blank"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Ravelry</span></a>. </div><div><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 365px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3087/3124695079_78e6273ae1.jpg" border="0" /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 371px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3083/3124696703_585b05d77a.jpg" border="0" /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 334px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3079/3124693889_4845c7a20c.jpg" border="0" /><br />...and Log Cabin Socks for my brother-in-law. If they look big, that's because they are. I had to knit them to fit his <em>size 13 feet</em>. Size 13? Are you kidding me?? I almost ran out of yarn for crying out loud! And I still don't know if they'll actually fit. Anyway, more details on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/knitchick2/log-cabin-socks-2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Ravelry</span></a>. </div></div><div><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 327px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3113/3125533964_0979738aee.jpg" border="0" /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 311px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3092/3124707361_69ddbc872b.jpg" border="0" /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">twomorechristmasgiftstofinishgottagobye</span>!! </div></div>jennahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13013653678324289584noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30527179.post-50212541919134142052008-12-06T19:38:00.005-05:002008-12-06T20:57:40.040-05:00christmas present progressI lined up seven projects for myself this Christmas. I now have three and a half done...hopefully I can make it four by tomorrow...? But I'm feeling kind of ok about my Christmas knitting list. Not <em>great</em>, but ok.<br /><br />So, to my sisters, who poke around this blog every once in a while, and ESPECIALLY my <em>middle sister</em>, who totally used to snoop around for her Christmas gifts when she was little, please do NOT scroll down, because I am about to blog about your gifts. I mean it. Both of you. Just go to another web page. Seriously! <em>GIT!</em><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_MIubRS4DqbmUccN4qaL7KVKA2lUYVumhb3hcmW1Nooy-EyRrAxv_WJRN60vZB6j0n1qSBEwDDazCLpUmYE-8FhoiMev33sjBqErb8ehBGj1VbK8yI4zxI1AsH0njW4inPNao/s1600-h/thumbnail_newport.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5276844328331491762" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_MIubRS4DqbmUccN4qaL7KVKA2lUYVumhb3hcmW1Nooy-EyRrAxv_WJRN60vZB6j0n1qSBEwDDazCLpUmYE-8FhoiMev33sjBqErb8ehBGj1VbK8yI4zxI1AsH0njW4inPNao/s320/thumbnail_newport.gif" border="0" /></a>Ok, just in case my pesky sisters are still on this page, I'm going to give them one more chance to <em>peace. out.</em> and start by admitting that I bought a Christmas gift for myself. It took a little rationalization, but finally I couldn't stand it any longer and I ordered the <a href="http://namasteneedles.com/index.php" target="blank">Namaste</a> Newport knitting bag in "peacock." I am always shoving different knitting projects into different sized totes, and...stuff falls out...and...(sigh)...ok, for real, I am just in LOVE with that color! I had to check several online retailers before I found one that had it in Peacock and now I can't wait for it to get here! I think we will be the best of friends. :)<br /><br />I am SO glad that cowls are SO "in" right now! They are The Best Thing to happen to Christmas knitting since...I don't know what. It's just such a great way to be able to give someone a really special handknit. They're substantial enough to make a nice gift, but small enough that you can try out a fancy-pants stitch pattern or a fabulous yarn without killing yourself. Not that I necessarily went overboard on <em>either...</em>but you <em>could</em>, you see. Over Thanksgiving weekend I finished two Feather and Fan Cowls for two (non-sister) recipients. It was a free pattern from my LYS, and you can get the details on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/knitchick2/feather-and-fan-cowl" target="blank">my Ravelry project page</a>. I can't decide what I love most about this project; that it took almost no time at all, that the feather and fan pattern is so gosh-darned pretty, or that this yarn is absolutely delicious. Each cowl uses one skein of Classic Elite Lush, which is an angora/wool blend and if you've never used it, I suggest you do. Heck, just buy a skein and snuggle your face into it! That's even faster than knitting.<br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3108/3087378932_14491fdd49.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 316px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 274px" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3108/3087378932_14491fdd49.jpg" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3258/3087378302_4d491d1b18.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 274px" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3258/3087378302_4d491d1b18.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />This week I finished cowl #3, Veronik Avery's <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/chevron-neck-warmer" target="blank">Chevron Neck Warmer</a>. When I first started, I was kind of "meh" about it, but now that it's finished, I. Want. It. This is for one of my no-good-dirty-rotten-nosy-scheming sisters (<em>are you still reading this???</em>) and I hope she loves it. I used about half a skein of Berocco Ultra Alpaca in "couscous" on size 5 needles and think I have enough yarn left to make another for myself! The cowl stretched out more than I thought it would when I blocked it, but I compensated by sewing the buttons a bit farther in from the edge. I think it will be ok. And if/when I make another I will definitely be getting more of the same buttons. They're really nothing too special---I found them at JoAnn!---but I just love the way that dark leather looks against the natural colored yarn with the chevron pattern. I'm pretty happy with this gift. Hopefully I will remember to take action shots of the neck warmer warming my sister's neck and post them after Christmas. For now, more sedentary shots of the cowl than anyone probably cares to see...<br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3023/3087376752_6f94706588.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 370px" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3023/3087376752_6f94706588.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><br /><div align="center"></div><p align="center"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3122/3086540225_14472e7ff2.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 405px" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3122/3086540225_14472e7ff2.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><p align="center"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3282/3086540729_26fbb1299f.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 339px" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3282/3086540729_26fbb1299f.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><p align="center"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3193/3087377638_4b1dd31781.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 313px" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3193/3087377638_4b1dd31781.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>The one gift I'm worried about finishing is the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/knitchick2/tapestry-cowl" target="blank">Tapestry Cowl</a>. It's still only about a third of the way done, and I'm SO slow at it. Which makes me procrastinate. Which is obviously not a good combination. So I guess I should go work on some socks now...jennahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13013653678324289584noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30527179.post-53777562573826157322008-12-02T09:19:00.004-05:002008-12-03T20:48:52.850-05:00how to throw an indie craft showI had such a great time as a vendor at the <a href="http://secondstorie.net/" target="blank">Second Storie}</a> Indie Market this weekend! The women in charge (<a href="http://shannamurray.typepad.com/shanna_murray/" target="blank">Shanna</a>, <a href="http://www.whichonesareweeds.blogspot.com/" target="blank">Rachael</a>, <a href="http://cristhinkingoutloud.blogspot.com/">Cris</a>, <a href="http://whatyoushalldo.blogspot.com/" target="blank">JoAnn</a>, and <a href="http://dearbrothersandsisters.blogspot.com/" target="blank">Karen</a>) are fabulous. I've never seen craft show coordinators go out of their way like this to see to it that the vendors were so well taken care of. Everything from simply providing tables and linens, all the way to having an incredible brunch catered on Sunday morning, truly made you feel like you were a valued part of the event. I thought the variety of <a href="http://secondstorie.net/vendors.html" target="blank">vendors</a> was very well-chosen. There were several vendors selling the same <em>type</em> of product, but each had its own unique aesthetic. Since there wasn't much overlap in product, there wasn't the slightest air of competition. I certainly felt honored to be accepted amongst such fantastic artists and craftspeople.<br /><br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3149/3075118262_d814000854.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 322px" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3149/3075118262_d814000854.jpg" border="0" /></a>Every single vendor I met was not only incredibly kind, but also incredibly generous with both compliments and advice. Everyone was very supportive of each other's work and the warm fuzzies were flying, but it was also a great opportunity for sharing information on materials, suppliers, techniques, displays...you name it. Lucky me; my table was back-to-back with <a href="http://manidesignsjewelry.com/">Amber Mahler</a>, who makes probably--no, <em>definitely--</em>the most beautiful jewelry I've ever seen. And she might be the sweetest person I've ever met, so be sure to take a peek at her shop!<br /><br />The experience seemed very positive for shoppers, as well. Seemingly small details such as background music, complimentary coffee and hot cider, and a few sofas scattered around, encouraged people to actually <em>spend some time</em> at the event. Rather than buying and leaving, people were taking a few minutes to sit, relax, and mingle with other shoppers between making their purchases. Speaking of purchases, my aunt bought a print from <a href="http://freshlyblendedpress.com/">Freshly Blended Press</a>, I helped a friend pick out a set of three prints from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5083418" target="blank">Sarah Ahearn</a>, and I was able to snag some lovely, funky little paper journals from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6425151" target="blank">Mackenzie Sasser</a>, as well as an ornament and some printed gift tags from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6392534" target="blank">Shanna Murray</a> and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6392534" target="blank">Hello Handmade</a>.<br /><br />Not only was it nice to make some sales and talk with the buyers, it was great to meet and hang out with other crafters. I'm so glad to have joined up with the Second Storie} family and I can't wait to see how they grow.<br /><br />I only got this one photo (give yourself 10 points if you spotted the handknit!), but you can see more photos of the event on Freshly Blended's <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/freshlyblended/sets/72157610599548636/" target="blank">Flickr set</a>!jennahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13013653678324289584noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30527179.post-31768156400001053562008-12-01T08:20:00.013-05:002008-12-01T11:10:33.298-05:00give it away, now!<div><br /><div><div>I was so excited to find out that I won <a href="http://indiefixx.com/2008/11/24/12-days-of-indie-holiday-shopping-red-ruby-rose/" target="blank">this</a> giveaway on <a href="http://indiefixx.com/" target="blank">Indie Fixx</a> last week! Rowena of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5429379" target="blank">Red Ruby Rose</a> contacted me and simply asked which clutch was my favorite. :) I chose the Aqua Pods design, and I can NOT wait to see it! <em>Obviously</em>, I'm going to need new shoes, now. There are so many gorgeous bags in this shop, and Rowena seems like an incredibly sweet person. I suggest you hop over to her shop, pronto!<br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfthqJvxfnk5Gzk83W-GC4bU6Ydz04ZS5YA8sEN6g4O7eGGZx1Hp4FKeyx75bQNEuTT-TQ9bBkQuTsZdAZocYBERRQvJQcC4sPETv0Cbc4l_1eZPsuoqI8mNRzqjv412tyDam2/s1600-h/aquapod1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5274832581374562322" style="WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfthqJvxfnk5Gzk83W-GC4bU6Ydz04ZS5YA8sEN6g4O7eGGZx1Hp4FKeyx75bQNEuTT-TQ9bBkQuTsZdAZocYBERRQvJQcC4sPETv0Cbc4l_1eZPsuoqI8mNRzqjv412tyDam2/s200/aquapod1.jpg" border="0" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHjBNcTPOuqyrztIm9K5I6F_8jsL32CMnnXK9agfI2kpTJ4w2D_wgtmcAlJDusmZV6dHv_HpIihyW3Ys9A5xvFrRUS8XrrvAkHYhghc50r5b-qMi7VglX0gzbZsy9G4kkpsBFO/s1600-h/aquapod2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5274832682373995234" style="WIDTH: 160px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHjBNcTPOuqyrztIm9K5I6F_8jsL32CMnnXK9agfI2kpTJ4w2D_wgtmcAlJDusmZV6dHv_HpIihyW3Ys9A5xvFrRUS8XrrvAkHYhghc50r5b-qMi7VglX0gzbZsy9G4kkpsBFO/s200/aquapod2.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><br /><div align="left"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3223/2760804336_79791bf296_m.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3223/2760804336_79791bf296_m.jpg" border="0" /></a>Speaking of giveaways...there's going to be a Small Bird giveaway on <a href="http://thesefavoritethings.blogspot.com/" target="blank">My Favorite Things</a> this week! Molly contacted me a while ago, and I finally decided it was time to do a little shop promotion out there in blog land. I chose to give away the Cave Earrings, since I think they rather epitomize the Small Bird style, and are simple enough to appeal to a variety of people. If they don't really appeal to you, but something else in my shop <em>does</em>, there should also be a free shipping code (good through the month of December) in the sidebar near my Small Bird logo. So be sure to check out the My Favorite Things blog this week! ...the giveaway starts on Tuesday, I believe. </div><br /><div align="left">And speaking of shopping, I'm sure many of you have started your holiday shopping, and some of you have probably taken the <a href="http://www.buyhandmade.org/" target="blank">Handmade Pledge</a>! Well, I'm not going to <em>pledge</em> to buy exclusively handmade this holiday season (what can I say? I just love H&M too much), but heck, I've been giving "handmade for the holidays" long before there was ever a pledge to take!! So if you can, why not make your own gifts, or get out there and support your local artists and craftspeople and small business owners and favorite Etsy shops? It does a lot of <a href="http://www.buyhandmade.org/why-buy-handmade" target="blank">good</a>.<br /><br />So then since we're speaking of Etsy shops, I now have <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5131833&section_id=5779636" target="blank">Small Bird gift cards</a> available in my shop! A printed gift card will be mailed to you, looking all cute in it's little brown paper envelope, ready and waiting to be stuffed into a stocking, or your coworker's mailbox, or tucked into the branches of the Christmas tree, like my family does. :) </div><div align="center"><br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3151/3071854485_af8e24b13b_m.jpg"></a><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3151/3071854485_af8e24b13b_t.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 100px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 100px" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3151/3071854485_af8e24b13b_t.jpg" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3025/3071854583_212b16292a_t.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 100px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 100px" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3025/3071854583_212b16292a_t.jpg" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3278/3071854345_f6b4820260_t.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 100px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 100px" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3278/3071854345_f6b4820260_t.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3025/3071854583_212b16292a_m.jpg"></a><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3278/3071854345_f6b4820260_m.jpg"></a><br /></div><br /><div align="left"></div><div align="left">The Second Storie} Indie Market was wonderful!! More to come on all that handmade goodness... </div></div></div></div>jennahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13013653678324289584noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30527179.post-59625855382837565982008-11-25T20:09:00.005-05:002008-11-25T20:25:25.884-05:00second storie} indie market<div align="center"><a href="http://secondstorie.net/events.html" target=blank><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5272768306671925794" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 309px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqD3FX10DYi64HfG4AVe6ZCRKC0lp5JU8dKTawajDCsm65LYLgjDCY-qDs9HUGwzDJHJ6twM1_gZwoWL2cW-x9WXzi631WZLzpywiX1r6t4eBYQ0aig6jyhL6whqO0Rv9J2cjZ/s400/ss-Poster_gray.jpg" border="0" /></a> <div>Be there or be square, kids.</div><br /></div>jennahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13013653678324289584noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30527179.post-50050653150029364282008-11-17T09:44:00.004-05:002008-11-17T10:24:28.103-05:00holiday knitting is ON<div>I finally made some concrete decisions regarding my Christmas Knit List and I'm putting the plan into action! Assemblage is taking a seat in the "way back" for now. Jewelry making has been taking up the vast majority of my free time, and suddenly I realized that I probably started my holiday knitting too late. My late start pretty much eliminated the idea of knitting a sweater for anyone...not that I was really jazzed to attempt another sweater for a family member anyway. So I had to choose some smaller projects. </div><div></div><br /><div><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3248/3035832295_704750fe64.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 403px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 500px" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3248/3035832295_704750fe64.jpg" border="0" /></a>What do you knit for Dad after you've already knit for him two ill-fitting hats, a really gigantic sweater, coffee cozies that he actually likes, and thrummed mittens that he refuses to wear because he thinks they're "too nice"? The answer is, clearly, socks. The problem is that I don't knit socks. Or, rather, I <em>haven't</em> knit socks. Ever. I've had half a Jaywalker sitting at the bottom of my knitting basket for what I think must be years by now. I've just never been able to get into it. But socks were so <em>obviously</em> the solution to my Dad Gift Dilemma, that I decided I had to try again. I've always liked the Log Cabin Socks from Handknit Holidays, but the size only goes up to a men's 8.5! I needed a 9.5-10. So I decided to knit the pattern as is, using larger needles and yarn and hope for the best. (Stop laughing.) I had trouble finding the perfect combination of color (something heathered and natural looking), care instructions (machine washable, since he'd never wear them if they weren't!), and gauge (chunky). So I settled on Plymouth Encore Chunky, which contains...<em>acrylic</em>. Yipe. Being so unsure of my sock knitting skills, I was hesitant to spend more for even a superwash yarn if I was just going to wind up tossing the whole project anyway. Yes, of COURSE I'm regretting it now! (Stop laughing). You told me so. I know, I know. But they're actually looking nice and I <em>think</em> they might even be the right size and I'm <em>fairly certain</em> my dad will love them and <em>positive</em> that I'm knitting another pair for my brother-in-law.</div><br /><div></div><div>(Know what? Sock knitting is kind of fun. No, I'm not crossing over to the dark side yet. But I am on my tippy toes peeking over the wall wondering what else you guys are knitting over there.)</div>jennahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13013653678324289584noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30527179.post-10680768403927932192008-11-05T08:46:00.004-05:002008-12-03T20:47:43.163-05:00small bird tweets<a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3191/3003272936_77854fdba9_t.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 100px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 100px" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3191/3003272936_77854fdba9_t.jpg" border="0" /></a>I probably need to join another networking-type website like I need a hole in the head, but when I read the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/storque/how-to/team-tip-how-to-twitter-2848/" target="blank">Etsy Storque article</a> on using <a href="https://twitter.com/home" target="blank">Twitter</a> as a marketing tool, I thought, "eh, why not?" I figured I could post <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5131833" target="blank">Small Bird</a> jewelry updates and new Etsy listings, and maybe even get some public opinion on new designs. I don't really have an outlet just for shop updates, so that's what I'll be using Twitter for; self-serving Small Bird propagation. Mostly. ;)<br /><br />However, Twitter has already proven a bit more addictive than I anticipated, so it's impossible to resist commenting on all the other fantastic stuff you guys are posting on there! But that's the whole idea, right? I'm hoping it will help keep me more connected with the online crafting community, too. So if you want to follow me on Twitter, I'm <a href="https://twitter.com/smallbirdjenna" target="blank">smallbirdjenna</a>. See you over there!jennahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13013653678324289584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30527179.post-54842184072082883302008-11-03T09:33:00.004-05:002008-11-03T11:15:49.317-05:00the craft gods are...moodyI just found that I have been officially accepted as a vendor at the <a href="http://secondstorie.net/" target="blank">Second Storie}</a> Indie Market! (With the <a href="http://www.smallbird.etsy.com/" target="blank">jewelry</a>, not the knitting.) The <a href="http://secondstorie.net/vendors.html" target="blank">vendor list</a> looks very impressive and I'm really excited to be a part of it. It's all going down on November 29th and 30th at The Visual Studies Workshop in Rochester, NY. I've been working on some new designs, so I should have a bunch of brand new pieces to show off by then! It's interesting to me how my aesthetic continues to change as I learn more and create more. Most recently, I started experimenting with faceted stones. I used to think that "sparkly" wasn't really my thing. But I kept coming across faceted gemstones while shopping for new materials and...well, they became kind of hard to resist. It must be the girly-girl in me. I think the 6mm stones are just perfect for a lovely little solitaire ring. But I'll have to wait and see. Maybe no one will like them and it will be a short-lived experiment. Or maybe I'll just keep making them for myself.<br /><br /><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div align="center"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3202/2990227538_1ccc50be7b_m.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 227px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 230px" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3202/2990227538_1ccc50be7b_m.jpg" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3144/2990229614_322742c4f1_m.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 188px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 229px" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3144/2990229614_322742c4f1_m.jpg" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3224/2990229920_5eaedd5396_m.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 227px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 229px" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3224/2990229920_5eaedd5396_m.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div><div></div><div><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16794119" target="blank"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 500px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3190/2990106084_cd9d1eb667.jpg" border="0" /></a>I should probably just stick to metal, since the yarn is not my friend right now. I finally got the sleeves finished for Assemblage (after knitting one of them 3 times) and started on the left front. After about 8" I realized I was doing the decreases incorrectly. I was decreasing on both sides (like the back) instead of just one side. Sigh...stupid mistake. So...rip, rip, rip. I'm starting to wonder if I'm even meant to knit this sweater at all! They're my own stupid mistakes, but it really feels like the knitting gods are against me on this one.</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>jennahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13013653678324289584noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30527179.post-17359343945507916372008-10-14T12:46:00.003-04:002008-10-14T13:01:53.140-04:00third time's the charm...I just started knitting the second sleeve of Assemblage...for the third time. I thought it was too big because I used the wrong needle size, but as it turns out, I messed up one row containing TEN decreases, so had to rip back to the cuff. Again. (Sigh...)<br /><br />While I continue to make negative progress on Assemblage, I've started some smaller projects...for "fun." I started the <a href="http://pepperknit.com/patterns/tapestrycowl.html" target="blank">Tapestry Cowl</a>, which immediately told me that it wants to be a Christmas gift. The reversible pattern is created using double knitting, which I had never done before. And even though I have to pay attention to every. single. stitch., it really is a cool technique. However, as cool as it is, and as much as I love this gorgeous pattern, I realized that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">colorwork</span> is not really my thing. For whatever reason, I just don't enjoy it as much as other knitting techniques. I might have to get over that, though. There are too many beautiful fair isle patterns in my queue...<br /><br /><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3187/2941913830_a6467ac0c8_o.jpg" border="0" /> <div></div><div>I was so inspired by <a href="http://www.knittingschooldropout.com/2008/09/more_of_the_same.htm" target="blank">Melissa's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">entrelac</span> scarf</a>, that I immediately ordered some <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Noro</span> Silk Garden and started knitting away this weekend. I'm not in love with the colorway, but I <em>am</em> in love with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">entrelac</span>. I'd almost forgotten just how much I enjoy this technique. I know some people find it tedious...but I find it completely addicting. (Just <em>one</em> more square...) I cast on 24 stitches on size 8 needles and followed the instructions for Lady Eleanor from Scarf Style. I think this scarf may also become a Christmas gift, but you never know. It does look rather nice with my rust-colored fall coat.<br /><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3215/2941914196_9577be8715_b.jpg" border="0" /></div>jennahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13013653678324289584noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30527179.post-1409620822274368082008-09-26T08:10:00.004-04:002008-09-26T09:12:54.865-04:00small bird goes to marketI joined the <a href="http://secondstorie.net/" target="blank">second storie}</a> crew yesterday evening to have another go at the <a href="http://www.swfarmersmarket.org/" target="blank">South Wedge Farmer's Market</a>. I was the "featured artist" in August, but it rained cats and dogs and I wound up packing it in early. So they let me have a do-over! The weather couldn't have been more perfect and there's never a shortage of interesting people and goings-on in the South Wedge. All in all, it was a pleasant way to spend a Thursday evening. I plan on joining up with second storie} again on November 29th and 30th for their <a href="http://secondstorie.net/events.html" target="blank">Indie Market</a>. It sounds like it's going to be kind of a big deal.<br /><div></div><br /><div>Speaking of big deals...this is a milestone (of sorts) for me...<img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 590px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 452px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" height="390" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3236/2889939638_b7a56ba3ae_o.jpg" border="0" />Oh, I know, I know...Etsy hearts don't <em>really</em> mean anything...and you shouldn't base your Etsian self-worth on how many people "heart" you, but...a <em>thousand</em>?? Kinda cool for little old me.</div><br /><div></div><div>Time to sit is time to knit, so I did work on a sleeve of <a href="http://flickr.com/photos/knitchick2/2810126174/in/set-1330171/" target="blank">Assemblage</a> while I was at the market. I did have two sleeves almost finished, but I had to rip one out. I think with all my stopping and starting and piecing together of this cardigan, I accidentally used the wrong needle size for one of my sleeves. Boo. So Assemblage is coming along...but slowly.</div>jennahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13013653678324289584noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30527179.post-66159406262727216092008-08-29T20:59:00.002-04:002008-08-29T21:21:15.014-04:00knits & pieces...for real.I started <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/assemblage" target="blank">Assemblage</a> this summer, and last time I talked about it all I had to show was some oatmeal-colored ribbing. (Snore.) Since then, I did actually get a lot more of the back completed, but it's still not very exciting.<br /><br /><div></div><div></div><div>Then I traveled. And I wanted some travel knitting. And I still wanted to work on Assemblage. So I started a sleeve, and brought a bunch of extra yarn. (I'm not afraid of flying, but I <em>am</em> afraid of running out of yarn while I'm flying.) When I got to the point in the sleeve where I had to shape the sleeve cap, I wasn't quite ready to move on. I hatehatehate sleeves that are <em>just not quite</em> long enough, so I wanted to do some measuring and comparing to other sweaters and holding up pieces of knitting to my own arms...and I didn't want to do all of that in the airport. So I started another sleeve! Now have three unfinished pieces of knitting on three different sets of needles and I feel a little crazy.</div><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3079/2810126174_ede9645e92_b.jpg" border="0" />But starting another sleeve gave me the chance to work on the textured pattern again. I LOVE this pattern. I knit the cuffs longer than the pattern calls for just because I didn't want to stop knitting this gorgeous texture!<br /><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3101/2810127072_b1c37a4866_b.jpg" border="0" />jennahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13013653678324289584noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30527179.post-81177045232513130262008-08-26T18:09:00.004-04:002008-08-26T18:34:23.420-04:00impromptu terrarium<a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3055/2800537275_1b245c4fb5.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3055/2800537275_1b245c4fb5.jpg" border="0" /></a>Sometimes you just get the urge to make a mini terrarium, you know? Like yesterday, when I was meandering through the lighting department at my home improvement store, and spotted the <em>exact</em> glass-pendant-light-cover-thingy that Flickr member gemmafactrix had used quite some time ago to make her mini terrarium. Unfortunately, her pics seem to have vanished from her Flickr account, but I always thought her mini terrariums were so cute and clever, and I've been meaning to rip off her design for-EVER! Next stop was the gardening department where I purchased one of those terra cotta-underneath-the-flower-pot-tray-thingers (for the amount of time I spend in the home improvement store, you'd think I'd have acquired a better vocabulary by now...), a variety pack of mini succulents, and some "dish garden topping" (yes, that's actually what it's called). So, over coffee this morning, I whipped up a mini terrarium! Now let's hope it doesn't die. And if you're one of those Green Thumbs who just took one look at it and spotted the fatal flaw, so you know already that it's gonna die for some reason...don't tell me just yet, ok? I still want a little time to revel in the cuteness.<br /><p align="center"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3098/2800538569_ba78de098c.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3098/2800538569_ba78de098c.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><p align="center"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3175/2800549925_8984ae4271.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3175/2800549925_8984ae4271.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><p align="center"></p><p align="center"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3005/2801392230_29ff66fb3a.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3005/2801392230_29ff66fb3a.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>jennahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13013653678324289584noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30527179.post-16981424244339758752008-08-20T14:52:00.002-04:002008-08-20T15:16:40.178-04:00my not-so-shrunken cardigan<div><div><div><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/marilyns-not-so-shrunken-cardigan" target="blank">Marilyn's Not-So-Shrunken Cardigan</a> is finished...and there's not really much to say about it---which is a good thing! It fits just the way I wanted it to (you gotta love a top-down raglan) and I'm REALLY happy with the color (I may have <em>accidentallyonpurpose</em> purchased turquoise Mary Jane pumps today.) I used just over 5 skeins of Elsebeth Lavold Silky Wool in color 09, verdigris, on size 3 and 6 needles. I almost made it with 5 skeins, but I needed to bust into one more for the last ruffle. I also lengthened the body to 13" below the underarm. The only part I'm disappointed with is that I wish the ruffles were more...squiggly. I think I may have crocheted them too tightly and now they sort of look like fins rather than ruffles. But it doesn't bother me too much. Fall can take its time, but when it does get here, I'll be ready! (Cardigan-wise, anyway.)</div><div align="center"><br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3027/2781309145_174070aba3.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3027/2781309145_174070aba3.jpg" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3037/2782170396_33c364c630.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 316px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 490px" height="490" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3037/2782170396_33c364c630.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div align="center"> </div><div align="left">(Oh yeah, and I got bangs. I'm not so sure it was the right decision, but they're only bangs. They'll grow out.)</div></div></div>jennahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13013653678324289584noreply@blogger.com51tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30527179.post-27933542048519524632008-08-14T12:15:00.004-04:002008-08-14T12:29:11.840-04:00sneak peekMy Not So Shrunken Cardigan is finished. I just need to find some time to take some action shots.<br /><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3068/2763221394_87aae3c6c4.jpg" border="0" /><br />Hm. Those ruffles aren't as ruffle-y as I'd like...jennahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13013653678324289584noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30527179.post-15631790743213505562008-08-04T13:02:00.002-04:002008-08-04T13:31:33.967-04:00why not?Three sweaters in progress in the middle of the summer??? That's normal, right? <div><div><br /></div><div></div><div>I was so taken with Norah Gaughan's <a href="http://www.berroco.com/ng3/ng3_assemblage_pv.html" target="blank">Assemblage</a> pattern that I just had to cast on. I'm using Jaeger Extra Fine Merino DK in oatmeal. </div><div>Exciting, huh?<br /><br /></div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3225/2731914141_c026bf996b.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><div>This schlumpy, unattractive pile of knitting is Marilyn's Not So Shrunken Cardigan---almost finished! I just have to crochet the ruffles and find some buttons and block this thing. Being a top-down pattern, I'm fairly certain this will fit just fine, and hopefully look a lot better than it does in this photo! I have mixed feelings about the yarn...the Silky Wool smells like silk (duh), but I'm really in love with the color. Eh. Oh, well.</div><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3092/2731918785_079a6e6825.jpg" border="0" /><br />For some reason, I was thinking about my <a href="http://knits-and-pieces.blogspot.com/2007/01/cabled-yoke-pullover.html" target="blank">Cabled Yoke Pullover</a> recently and how much I liked it when I finished it, but how little I've actually worn it. I think the answer is to turn it into a turtleneck. However, I'm a bit uncertain about how to knit it, in terms of texture and pattern. I think continuing the cables up the neck would be a little wacky. A basic ribbed turtleneck seems like it would make sense, but I'm not so sure I'm digging that either. I feel like the ribbing should be repeated in the cuffs, as well. Which it is not. So I'm leaning toward knitting straight up in the round, to get kind of a slouchy, not-quite-cowl effect. Actually, I'll probably have to add some decreases in there, but I think this is the best option. I think. But maybe it will look strange to have the cable pattern stop abruptly. Oh, I don't know.<br /><br /></div><div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3190/2732746584_b83b2f0394.jpg" border="0" /></div>jennahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13013653678324289584noreply@blogger.com12