WIPs must wait
Posted by mtmom on November 18, 2007
Well, what can I say? The gift-knitting bug has finally bitten Mt. Mom. So, although I have been knitting, there is, as the Tsarina would say, a “stealth factor” involved in displaying photos of some of it.
The Fair Isle sampler is on hold, as are the knee socks. Here you see their current states. 
May I show you more of my work so far on the second knee sock? It has been a pleasing project. Here you see my increases for the instep: 
And here, the decreases at midline (to compensate for the earlier increases) and back (to hug my narrow ankle): 
Ah!
And now, on to gift-knitting. I’ve begun a hat/cap that I currently think will be a good fit for dd Cherry — though it could also fit older dd Kathy. The pattern is adapted from Arenda Holladay’s “Zig-Zap Socks” in the Winter 07/08 issue of CastOn Magazine. I went up to worsted weight yarn (Patons Decor “Aran” colorway) and needles (KP Harmony 16″ US size 7), and added one pattern-stitch rep (18 more stitches). Very stretchy! 
And, an experimental adaptation of the “Spiral Skullcap” pattern from The Knitting Way by Linda Skolnik and Janice MacDaniels. I’m hoping this will ultimately produce a cap I can give to the local elementary school for some cold, hatless student, as well as some enjoyable hours of new knitting. 
The spiral I’ll curl up and seam. And, if it turns out OK at that point, I plan to pick up stitches and add deeper sides — either vertically in the round, or horizonatally, joining on a panel as I go around. Anybody out there done such a skullcap pattern before me? I’d like to see one, and hear how it went, but it’s not listed on Ravelry.
I have also made a first prototype for a Christmas miniature — last year I made tiny sweaters for use as tree ornaments. This year I’m thinking. . . oh, but it’s still a secret!
Here are some of last year’s goodies. 
Chloe has alot to learn about being a boon knitting companion. 
“Ah, c’mon Mama. It was twitchin’.”
