Hooray! The quilt has been delivered to Hilda Reck for the final quilting on her long professional quilting machine. It was really neat to meet her and to see where she lives. She has her commercial long-quilting machine set-up in her garage with a large cutting table and lots of storage shelves. Because she has several projects current and pending for the "snow birds", who want their projects done before they return to their homes between now and the end of April, she probably won't have mine ready until May 4th. So it will be a while before I can surprise Bruce with his gift.
She explained several neat items for me.
1. Push - don't pull the border fabric through the sewing machine when stitching it to the top. Reason: the fabric stretches otherwise and then bunches when quilted. She said I did a beautiful job and she didn't expect any problems with mine.
2. The different brands of batting. She showed me several she would never use. Then I explained I only liked the natural fibers. She recommended Quilter's Dream Cotton that can be ordered online. They carry the 100% cotton and also 100% wool, which either can be ordered in varying weights and sizes. She also said that JoAnn's carries Warm & Natural, which is a comparable brand and doesn't need to be ordered.
Went to JoAnn's and got the batting I will need to make the purses.
Carolyn (her and Nancy went with me to my first guild meeting) came by so I could assist her in completing another microwave bowl holder. She finished one and the second one didn't look right to her. We fixed it and drew the measurements for the darts on a third one.
I finished the Sasha skirt with the exception of the elastic in the waistband. I will finish that tomorrow.
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Sunday, March 3, 2013
March 3, 2013
I went yesterday and purchased some more fabric to make additional microwave reversible bowl holders, the project that the Quilting Guild did last Thursday. I liked it so well, I want to make several more to give as gifts. Steve really liked the holder and chose the fabric he wants me to make for my kitchen. I had a lot of the 100% cotton batting and thread leftover from the two I completed, so this will be a good way to use those.
I also got the fabric that will be used in this Thursday's project. It is another table runner but quite a different pattern. The pattern is called "Sunset Runner". It introduced me to "Jelly Rolls" and Charm Packs". Jelly Rolls are packages of pre-cut 2 1/2" strips. Charm Packs are packages of pre-cut 5" squares. Each package uses fabrics that blend well together. I hope my choices work well together since I didn't exactly choose the same patterns in each package. The colors look compatible to me, but the proof will be with the finished project. <grin>
I also bought fabric to make Vickie and her girls purses. The pattern is a little more advanced than what I might be able to do but I'm going to try anyway. It is called Bailey Island Hobo from Aunties Two Patterns. It features batting stuffed fabric strips. <yikes> I will make the small one.
I'll post photos when I complete these projects. <fingers crossed>
I bought the remaining fabric needed to complete the backing for Bruce's quilt. I will prepare it tomorrow and then see about getting it to the quilter. Then I will need to prepare everything for Thursday's Guild class. <whew>
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| Choices for gifts |
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| Steve's Choice |
I also got the fabric that will be used in this Thursday's project. It is another table runner but quite a different pattern. The pattern is called "Sunset Runner". It introduced me to "Jelly Rolls" and Charm Packs". Jelly Rolls are packages of pre-cut 2 1/2" strips. Charm Packs are packages of pre-cut 5" squares. Each package uses fabrics that blend well together. I hope my choices work well together since I didn't exactly choose the same patterns in each package. The colors look compatible to me, but the proof will be with the finished project. <grin>
I also bought fabric to make Vickie and her girls purses. The pattern is a little more advanced than what I might be able to do but I'm going to try anyway. It is called Bailey Island Hobo from Aunties Two Patterns. It features batting stuffed fabric strips. <yikes> I will make the small one.
I'll post photos when I complete these projects. <fingers crossed>
I bought the remaining fabric needed to complete the backing for Bruce's quilt. I will prepare it tomorrow and then see about getting it to the quilter. Then I will need to prepare everything for Thursday's Guild class. <whew>
Saturday, March 2, 2013
March 2, 2013
Good morning! Today is Saturday and Steve arrives home in a short while. He doesn't get to stay long but a few hours with him will be wonderful.
I have done much since last Tuesday. I am now working on the last layer of my Sasha skirt. In fact, I only have one more pattern repeat to complete and then I will finish that layer. After that I insert the elastic and can begin wearing it. I will wash and dry it first, however, to relax and soften the flax/linen fibers.
It is difficult to see the actual color of that top and last ruffle layer. It is a light green. This pattern was much simpler and more fun to knit. I liked it better. The dark cranberry at the very top is the waistband. The skirt is crumpled and lying on the top of my knitting bag.
On Thursday, I attended my first meeting with the Quilting Guild here in Bullhead City. There is a business meeting and two class offerings each month. I think it costs $20 to join from June 1 - May 31 each year. That's cool. While at this meeting, which was a class for making microwave pot holders for bowls, I made two. Really cute, I think.
Everything had to be 100% cotton because of the use inside a microwave. I bought two packages of precut fabric and a bag of the batting. Then I found some 100% cotton thread. Each piece is a 10-inch square. There is a piece of batting that goes with each fabric square. Each side is stitched and formed with darts and then stitched to each other. Once turned, the topstitching completes the design and helps with the shaping. As you can see, the holders are reversible. They are also washable.
I also discovered that Carol Neff, who is a member of the guild, lives in my park and is a year-rounder like me. That means, if she's willing, that I will have a quilting partner year round. Hooray!
I also called two quilters who own the long-arm quilting machines to see if I could have one of them schedule me for the completion of the quilt I made for Bruce. Paul's machine won't handle the size of the quilt but Hilda's will. She has agreed to quilt mine for $174 which includes attaching the binding for me, too. I plan to purchase the 3/4-yd of fabric to finish the backing today and then take everything to her ASAP. She says she won't be able to get to it for about 2-months. That's fine with me.
So once Steve arrives, I am off to purchase the remaining backing fabric and will soon have a completed quilt for my son.
I have done much since last Tuesday. I am now working on the last layer of my Sasha skirt. In fact, I only have one more pattern repeat to complete and then I will finish that layer. After that I insert the elastic and can begin wearing it. I will wash and dry it first, however, to relax and soften the flax/linen fibers.
It is difficult to see the actual color of that top and last ruffle layer. It is a light green. This pattern was much simpler and more fun to knit. I liked it better. The dark cranberry at the very top is the waistband. The skirt is crumpled and lying on the top of my knitting bag.
On Thursday, I attended my first meeting with the Quilting Guild here in Bullhead City. There is a business meeting and two class offerings each month. I think it costs $20 to join from June 1 - May 31 each year. That's cool. While at this meeting, which was a class for making microwave pot holders for bowls, I made two. Really cute, I think.
Everything had to be 100% cotton because of the use inside a microwave. I bought two packages of precut fabric and a bag of the batting. Then I found some 100% cotton thread. Each piece is a 10-inch square. There is a piece of batting that goes with each fabric square. Each side is stitched and formed with darts and then stitched to each other. Once turned, the topstitching completes the design and helps with the shaping. As you can see, the holders are reversible. They are also washable.
I also discovered that Carol Neff, who is a member of the guild, lives in my park and is a year-rounder like me. That means, if she's willing, that I will have a quilting partner year round. Hooray!
I also called two quilters who own the long-arm quilting machines to see if I could have one of them schedule me for the completion of the quilt I made for Bruce. Paul's machine won't handle the size of the quilt but Hilda's will. She has agreed to quilt mine for $174 which includes attaching the binding for me, too. I plan to purchase the 3/4-yd of fabric to finish the backing today and then take everything to her ASAP. She says she won't be able to get to it for about 2-months. That's fine with me.
So once Steve arrives, I am off to purchase the remaining backing fabric and will soon have a completed quilt for my son.
Thursday, February 28, 2013
February 26, 2013
I am not expecting anyone to actually read my postings. I usually just use these to capture my thoughts about the stuff happening in my life, especially as it relates to knitting and now quilting.
Steve is gone for 8 days and so I have lots of time to use for my projects. I am also walking three times a week with my father-in-law. This is good for both of us. It helps me get outside the house and makes it easier to take Christy, my dog, for a walk, too. Otherwise, I might never leave the inside.
Yesterday, I baked lots of fruit nut bread. It was an orange and pecan mixture. Very yummy. I also keep a sourdough starter in the fridge and yesterday I set it out to be fed and to ferment. Last night I mixed up the dough and left it to rise overnight. Now I have two loaves rising and will bake them later this afternoon. Steve loves sourdough bread. I have now acquired a taste for the chewy texture, too. It makes great toast.
I have finished the top of Bruce's quilt. I am now ready to pin the backing, the batting and the top together. But when I was measuring the backing material, I discovered that I am 3/4-yard short. So I must wait until Steve arrives home with the car so I can go to JoAnn's and purchase what I need. So that is on hold for right now.
I need to leave in about 10-minutes to go knit with The Needlers, my group I started here in the community. So far, only Wendy and I attend, but that is a good start. Wendy crochets and I knit the Sasha skirt. Many of the other residents and some visitors poke their heads through the door to see what we are doing. Some actually come inside and ask questions and visit for a while. As interest increases, I am sure the number of participants will too.
I have enjoyed knitting the Sasha skirt. This third ruffle layer has caused me more re-doing (tinking) than usual. The pattern is simple enough but I keep adding parts of the pattern in places where it is not supposed to be knit. Then I don't discover the mistake until two rows later. Sigh! But at least I am still knitting. Smile.
Steve is gone for 8 days and so I have lots of time to use for my projects. I am also walking three times a week with my father-in-law. This is good for both of us. It helps me get outside the house and makes it easier to take Christy, my dog, for a walk, too. Otherwise, I might never leave the inside.
Yesterday, I baked lots of fruit nut bread. It was an orange and pecan mixture. Very yummy. I also keep a sourdough starter in the fridge and yesterday I set it out to be fed and to ferment. Last night I mixed up the dough and left it to rise overnight. Now I have two loaves rising and will bake them later this afternoon. Steve loves sourdough bread. I have now acquired a taste for the chewy texture, too. It makes great toast.
I have finished the top of Bruce's quilt. I am now ready to pin the backing, the batting and the top together. But when I was measuring the backing material, I discovered that I am 3/4-yard short. So I must wait until Steve arrives home with the car so I can go to JoAnn's and purchase what I need. So that is on hold for right now.
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| TOP LEFT CORNER I added a dark border around the entire pieced portion. Then I added the border displaying the logo. I finished the top with a white border to showcase the entire top. The binding will be from the logo fabric after the quilt is quilted on a long-arm quilting machine by a professional quilter. |
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| BOTTOM LEFT CORNER |
I need to leave in about 10-minutes to go knit with The Needlers, my group I started here in the community. So far, only Wendy and I attend, but that is a good start. Wendy crochets and I knit the Sasha skirt. Many of the other residents and some visitors poke their heads through the door to see what we are doing. Some actually come inside and ask questions and visit for a while. As interest increases, I am sure the number of participants will too.
I have enjoyed knitting the Sasha skirt. This third ruffle layer has caused me more re-doing (tinking) than usual. The pattern is simple enough but I keep adding parts of the pattern in places where it is not supposed to be knit. Then I don't discover the mistake until two rows later. Sigh! But at least I am still knitting. Smile.
Saturday, February 23, 2013
February 23, 2013
Wow, it has been a while since I posted. But then I have been quite busy. I have been knitting the Sasha skirt and quilting several projects. Most of the ladies here in the RV park are more interested in quilting than knitting. I enjoy this craft, too, but not enough to give up my knitting. So I have been doing both.
I am working on the third of the four layers of the Sasha skirt. If you notice in the photo, I have completed the underskirt (the cranberry) with the lace ruffle. Then the lighter pink is a different pattern ruffle and the forest green is the third layer ruffle, the one I am currently knitting. I really hope this looks as good on me as I am anticipating. <smile>
I have completed several quilted projects, which has surprised even me. I only began this two months ago.
The mystery quilt was fun. The instructions are partially provided so that the next step is always a mystery until revealed after completing the previous step. I learned about fat quarters, which are pre-cut pieces of fabric that can be purchased in a variety of colors. I bought 20 for this quilt and you can see the randomness of each in the pattern. The pattern is called a "scrappy quilt" because the leftover pieces of fabric from other quilt projects (the scraps) are used to piece this quilt together. I didn't have any scraps so I bought the fat quarters, which were suggested in the pattern. I quilted this on my sewing machine rather than pay to have it done professionally. I also could have hand-quilted it but didn't want to since the sewing machine is quicker. If anyone is interested in how I did this, just ask.
Bruce said he would like a king size quilt, but this pattern only makes a queen size and that is almost more than large enough for me to handle. But because he is my son and I love to do things for him especially when I know he will be pleased, I am stepping outside my comfort zone a lot here.
The logo fabric came in a 4-yard length. There are two different logo patterns, and I had to fancy-cut them, which means I cut-out each square by hand individually rather than use the rotary cutter cutting through several layers at a time. This took one full day from early morning until well after dark to cut-out the required 30 squares. Now I am joining the squares to the light and dark sections and then combining the finished squares into the rows.
I am working on the third of the four layers of the Sasha skirt. If you notice in the photo, I have completed the underskirt (the cranberry) with the lace ruffle. Then the lighter pink is a different pattern ruffle and the forest green is the third layer ruffle, the one I am currently knitting. I really hope this looks as good on me as I am anticipating. <smile>
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| The Sasha Skirt |
I have completed several quilted projects, which has surprised even me. I only began this two months ago.
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| Place Mats |
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| Fall Inspired Reversible Table Runner - Side 1 |
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| Hot Pad |
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| Fall Inspired Reversible Table Runner - Side 2 |
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| Fall Inspired Reversible Table Runner |
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| Fall Inspired Reversible Table Runner |
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| A second Fall Inspired Reversible Table Runner - Side 1 |
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| Side 2 of the above Reversible Table Runner |
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| A Mystery Quilt Project |
Because most of the residents are snow birds in our RV park, they will be leaving and returning to their permanent homes in the next couple months. I don't want to stop quilting just because everyone leaves so I will be visiting the local Quilting Guild that meets three times each month here in Bullhead City. Two of the ladies in our park group have been attending the meetings and invited me to join them this upcoming Thursday. It will be interesting to see what is available to me during the summer, hot months here.
Steve just left this morning to drive three tours. He will be gone until next Friday, so I will have plenty of free time to knit, knit, and knit. He took the car and that means I will not be moving to far from my front door. I went to the grocery store last night and stocked my cabinets. Everything else is close to me and available within the RV park.
I will also be finishing the quilt I started for Bruce. When he discovered that I had finished the mystery quilt, he expressed a desire for a quilt made by me for him. He said it didn't need to be KY blue. Sure it doesn't. So I found the U of K logo fabric online at JoAnn's Fabric & Crafts site. I have finished 4 of the 6 rows of the pieced top. I will be able to finish all of this quilt by myself except for the quilting. It is too large to handle with my sewing machine. I will either need to tie-quilt it by hand or pay a professional to do it on the large quilting machines. Haven't decided which I will do yet.
The pattern is called BQ2. It seemed perfect for the logo squares. I bought a matching KY blue and white fabrics for the light and dark sections of the quilt.
Bruce said he would like a king size quilt, but this pattern only makes a queen size and that is almost more than large enough for me to handle. But because he is my son and I love to do things for him especially when I know he will be pleased, I am stepping outside my comfort zone a lot here.
The logo fabric came in a 4-yard length. There are two different logo patterns, and I had to fancy-cut them, which means I cut-out each square by hand individually rather than use the rotary cutter cutting through several layers at a time. This took one full day from early morning until well after dark to cut-out the required 30 squares. Now I am joining the squares to the light and dark sections and then combining the finished squares into the rows.
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| This is the first square pattern. |
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| This is the second square pattern, which is a mirror image of the first square. |
Because of the different patterns in the two squares, the placement of each became important. Fifteen were arranged in a 1,2,1,2,1 pattern for the 1st, 3rd, and 5th rows and fifteen were arranged in a 2,1,2,1,2 pattern for the 2nd, 4th, and 6th rows.
Needless to say, I WILL BE BUSY for a while. But I love that.
Monday, December 10, 2012
December 10, 2012
The first meeting of the knitting group I started in our RV retirement community saw me and one new lady. I met Wendy who is a snowbird with her husband, traveling from Sasketchawan, Canada each winter to the warmer climate of Arizona. This is her first year staying in our park. Wendy, like me, loves working with her hands in various different crafts. She joined me on Friday also with the quilting group.
I finished ALL my gift giving projects and have them all ready for mailing to all the different points of the USA where my family and friends live. Now I can actually shift mental gears and begin my Christmas baking. But, never fear, I already have my mind full of all the new projects I want to begin starting in the new year in just a few weeks. But until then, I will just knit on current projects, furthering their progress toward completion. Steve and I discussed the new year projects together. We decided that I should concentrate on projects that are for me, our new home, and small gifts that will be quick to make. Of course, I want to continue designing. I'm really looking forward to the challenges already. <grin>
Well, that's it for now. Just wanted to capture a few thoughts. Merry Christmas to each of you sharing this blog with me. I love you. Happy Birthday Lord Jesus. So glad I have the privilege to celebrate Your birth.
I finished ALL my gift giving projects and have them all ready for mailing to all the different points of the USA where my family and friends live. Now I can actually shift mental gears and begin my Christmas baking. But, never fear, I already have my mind full of all the new projects I want to begin starting in the new year in just a few weeks. But until then, I will just knit on current projects, furthering their progress toward completion. Steve and I discussed the new year projects together. We decided that I should concentrate on projects that are for me, our new home, and small gifts that will be quick to make. Of course, I want to continue designing. I'm really looking forward to the challenges already. <grin>
Well, that's it for now. Just wanted to capture a few thoughts. Merry Christmas to each of you sharing this blog with me. I love you. Happy Birthday Lord Jesus. So glad I have the privilege to celebrate Your birth.
Saturday, December 1, 2012
New Beginnings from Previous Endings
Today is December 1st. This is the last month of this year. Wow it is difficult to realize that another whole year has been lived already. So much has happened in the last months since I last entered a post. I am up early this morning and just thought I would capture some of the adventure before it gets lost in the memories of times past.
October was the month when I took LOTS of classes at The Fiber Factory in Mesa, AZ and finished several projects at the other knit shops, too. I know now that I maxed my limitations that month. If I had taken one class more I would have been totally overwhelmed. As it was, I did finish each class and project just before needing to pack up the apartment and move from Scottsdale, AZ to Bullhead City, AZ where I am now residing.
I started a Fair Isle sweater in September and worked feverishly to complete it by the end of October. I did complete it except for the addition of the sleeves, but that was okay with me because I only wanted to learn the techniques not actually wear the sweater. I am very pleased with the results but have decided that Fair Isle is a little too intense for me. I will probably only use it for borders or small area designing. I like the colors and some designs better than others. I did not like the heaviness of the completed project. But I did use scrap yarn which was not all matched for weight and content. So I would definitely use a lighter weight yarn when making another sweater should that ever happen. I am pleased that I learned how to carry two different colors using both hands. I am pleased that I learned how to hide the beginning ends of yarn when first starting with a new color. Wrapping the yarn as I knit is a good way to strand the yarn without leaving the loose strands that are so easily caught when wearing the garment - another nice technique. Most of all, the purpose for desiring to take the class was to learn how to make and use steeks. This I did. Neat!
I finally started knitting a pair of convertible mittens using a kit I bought from Knit Picks back in 2009. The kit included the pattern and all the yarn required to complete the project. The yarn is a lovely DK weight of a wool-silk blend. The mittens are striped and thus I have five different colors to use. There is lots of shaping using double pointed needles so the challenge was to learn how to knit all the different fingers and thumb shapes while working small areas with yarn held on stitch holders. There is lots of bulk and maneuvering in tight spaces to make it work. I did find it cumbersome and somewhat difficult to tighten the place of joining at the beginning of each finger. While I am not actually pleased with the finished results, I am pleased that I made these mittens because I learned how to knit them. Will I make another pair another time? Well, for now that remains to be seen. Mittens fall into the same category as socks. For me, I don't really enjoy making them but I am pleased that I know how if I want to.
During October I also took a class learning to knit unmentionables - AKA panties and bra. This class was fun. I enjoyed learning how to shape the buttock area using short rows. I struggled with this concept using my own design that didn't work quite so well. Danielle, the instructor, showed me a different way, which worked much better. I shaped the bras a little differently, too. I decided I liked a wider version with a front closure. When finished I did purchase a book with other "fancy" patterns called Sexy Little Knits written by celebrity swimsuit designer Ashley Paige. There is a real cute pattern in this book for a bathing suit cover up that I bought yarn to knit.
I took a class in October to learn Hairpin Crochet Lace. This craft requires a special tool for crocheting the yarn into a loopy lace. The process is simple to learn but laborious and somewhat boring to execute. The long panels required seemed to take forever to complete. When finished the panels are then attached to each other, which again seemed to take forever. I didn't really enjoy this project like I usually do. I did see the value of being able to teach the grandchildren something new that would be easy for them, but I wasn't able to visualize additional designs with this skill. So I will probably not be doing this again.
The shop Knit Happens started a charity project which I decided to do in October. Why not, huh? I began a booties pattern for newborns and premies. Haven't finished them yet, but will.
Oh and I forgot that I also heard of a gift desired by a friend of mine and knit that for her too during this time frame.
I also started a skirt pattern (Sasha Skirt) that I had admired for some time to knit for myself. Tempe Yarn & Fiber carried the pattern although I had first seen it at Knit Happens. I purchased the pattern and bought the yarn in some yummy colors in linen that I still think I can wear in Arizona. I have begun the skirt by knitting the waistband. I used the same technique I learned from Danielle while knitting the panties. Her technique was better than the one the pattern used.
I finally took a class learning tatting. The technique I used was needle tatting rather than using shuttles. I was told that needle tatting is quicker and easier. I did enjoy the class very much. Found the technique is more simple than I expected. Tatting is used to design elegant edgings using chains and picots. Purchasing lace edging already made is easier and probably cheaper, but the tatted designs is an old art that I am very glad I have learned. Not sure what I will do with this skill just yet.
The last class I took before moving was Continental Knitting. I have always wanted to learn how to hold the yarn in both hands while knitting, but was taught the English method. So with this class I finally learned the secrets. BUT - I didn't care for the new way at all. I didn't find it easier or quicker. So I will keep my way for now and maybe try it again later. Probably not. <grin>
And of course, I am still designing. Currently working on a ribbed/cabled tank top.
With that last class out of the way and my projects finally completed (at least to the point I wanted them), I made the switch to packing boxes and moving and unpacking boxes. For those of you who follow what happens to me, here is the lowdown...
We bought a park model in a senior retirement community to be close to Steve's parents as they age so they can have peace of mind and not worry about what will happen to them or the care they might receive. We have not owned our own place before so this is quite the adventure for us. The park model sat empty for almost two years and was very dirty and in much need of TLC. Steve has taken to the task admirably. He spared me as much effort as possible by hiring Molly Maids to clean the apartment for the final inspection and two men to carry the boxes and load the truck saving me the up and down the steps routine. In Bullhead City he hired another cleaner to come in and empty the trailer and clean everything so we could move in without any hinderance. He also scheduled two unpackers to help us unload the truck after we arrived. Steve's dad took a power sprayer and cleaned the outside before we arrived. Steve's mom washed the bed linens and remade the bed so we could arrive without that chore facing us. That Friday, the day of moving, went smoothly. We arrived at 10:00 pm that evening tired but happy to have reached our anticipated destination safely.
The name of the park is Riverside Resort. The next morning was busy with a park-wide yard sale. Steve and I quickly sorted the items taken from the park model into the things we wanted to keep and the things we didn't. We placed all the unwanted items in the driveway with a sign that read "Free Items". By the end of the day, everything was gone. Then we proceeded to visit the other park owners to see what we might find to make our move easier. We bought a real nice desk that fit under one living room window nicely. We had built a makeshift desk in the apartment but dismantled it before we left. The new desk adds a real nice homey feeling to the front room and made it easy for us to continue with business issues while we found places for everything in the boxes. The unpackers arrived and transferred everything from the truck to the porch and the move-in began.
I must have been moving at full adrenal gland throttle because I worked hard until very late and then woke too early to begin again. But I couldn't actually rest until I had finished the task, so I just kept moving along. Finally about 4-5 days later I had everything out of the boxes and situated in the closets and cabinets the way I wanted. It amazes me that everything fit. The park model is smaller than the apartment and shorter than the motor coach, although a little wider. So I am amazed that all my things actually packed away as nicely as they have. I have two closets in the bedroom. Steve and I are sharing one for our clothing. The closet doors slide back and forth giving each of us one side. The bed fits in the room with approximately 2.5 feet around all edges. Tight but doable. The other closet is where all the items that were previously stored in the five foot lockers that we kept in the bus bay area and then underneath the bed in all following living quarters. These foot lockers held all my project supplies. I now have a closet with my tools, fabrics, yarns, and dress form. I also was able to store all those items that everyone keeps but does not necessarily use all the time, like old photos and all those things the children and grandchildren give me.
The kitchen was a real challenge. I have lots of kitchen tools, gadgets, cookbooks, food items, etc. I sorted everything into the areas where they will be used and then proceeded to pack them for ease of use. This took two long days. I moved and rearranged and then moved again until I had it just right. Now I can maneuver in my kitchen easily. I am still discovering where I put things and forgetting just how to cook smoothly. But I know that will become easier as I adjust. It was actually funny when I prepared the first meal. My mind would remember where the needed item(s) were in the apartment, then think of the box into which it was packed, then where I placed it in the new kitchen. I would stand in the center of the room, turning while reflecting, then finally retrieve the necessary tool. Steve was hopeless. He just stood there with a blank expression. I told him just to ask until he finally knew where everything was now placed. Now, a month later, he hardly asks at all but moves about almost as easily as I do.
Another challenge for me was arranging my knitting supplies for easy access. In the apartment, I had my yarn, my books, my projects all arranged for easy close access around me. I could sit and knit. I could talk on the phone and knit. I could visit and knit. I could watch TV and knit. I could eat and knit. All my books were on the shelf under the table in front of the couch in the living room where I sat. Get the point. Well, the new place had no table in front of the couch with a shelf underneath. The new place had no space around it for the tools, yarn, or projects. Consternation! What to do? I was actually experience withdrawal symptoms and much distress!!! First order of business was to fix me. I arranged a table beside my chair that allowed my current projects to be handy and easy to pick up at a moment's choosing. Then the cookbooks were rearranged so that the bookshelf could now hold the knitting books instead. Not as close as before, but still only a few steps away. I could feel the relief already. Now, where to put the yarn. Ahhhhh, the closet with new plastic drawers made my access even easier than the footlockers under the previous bed. Now I was breathing more slowly and actually relaxing and planning my next project after the mittens were finished. Life was back to my normal and I could now enjoy living here. Everything is in order again. <smile>
Once we were unpacked Steve and I started meeting the other park members (our neighbors) by joining several ongoing and special planned community events. Of course, we met many new friends at the yard sale and those passing our place curious about our arrival. My first visit was with the gals meeting to make quilts. I am now piecing fabric for the current project - oval placemats. I chose colors that are in my china and hope the finished mats will enhance the place setting. If not, someone gets them as a gift or I sell them at the next yard sale. No matter, I learn the techniques. I also decided to make the "mystery quilt" project. I was right in time to receive the first week's task. I bought the fabric learning about fat quarters in the process. We are currently at the fourth week's task. I have cut my fabric, sewn several together and now will place those pieces into a design I like; then stitch. With all the grandchildren I have, someone will benefit from my efforts.
There is no knitting groups in our park that I have found. One lady knits or crochets, not sure which, prayer shawls that she gives away in church for those who need one. There are no knit shops in Bullhead City. The closest one is in Kingman, which is 45 mins. drive away. So I have started my own group. I placed an announcement in the monthly newsletter and expect to see some others join me throughout December.
Steve's parents love to gamble and go to the casino regularly. They enjoy Bingo as well. Steve and I joined them at the casino for the bus trip with free buffet excursion. We also joined them for the weekly playing at the clubhouse across the street from our place. We have decided that we will not be doing this very often. We don't enjoy just handing our money to the casinos and can enjoy a better time eating a buffet without the gambling as part of the package. Anyway, Steve reminded me that we need to spend our time remodeling our place and not throwing away our money "hoping" to win. I agree!
There is a weekly "potluck" dinner and we participate in it eagerly. We meet many of our neighbors and get to enjoy the fun of the various dishes prepared each week. We will happily continue this activity. We were invited to try pickle ball, which we did, and while we enjoyed ourselves, we will probably only do that if another couple wants to plan a game or two. We gave water aerobics a try and will do that when we can, but right now it conflicts with the quilting group and I prefer to keep that activity. We went to "Stretch and Tone" a couple times and will do that as often as we can. It is early in the morning and we don't always rise and shine at that time. We began learning to line dance, which we both enjoy. That will be a keeper activity. Mom and I go to Bunco, a dice game, each week. We enjoy the fun of that game and I will probably continue that with her. We currently attend church here in the park each Sunday, but we may find a church home elsewhere. Add laundry, cooking, cleaning, shopping, and the holiday celebrations and you have two very busy people right now. But we are finding our new home to be very satisfying. We may be here to stay for a very long time. <fingers crossed>
Steve is planning to double our floor space by enclosing the porch. Most people make an Arizona room from their addition, but we are going to enclose the porch and remove the center walls, rearrange the room designs and open up the ceiling. I drew the design on paper so he could better see what is needed. There are lots of HOA regulations and city limitations we need to consider. As soon as we can decipher all the information, plan our work schedule, and make sure the funds are in place, we will begin. Right now, however, we have our hands full just getting the current place livable in the mean time.
So there you have it. I am up to date with my blog. Now it is time to go knit. See you later.
October was the month when I took LOTS of classes at The Fiber Factory in Mesa, AZ and finished several projects at the other knit shops, too. I know now that I maxed my limitations that month. If I had taken one class more I would have been totally overwhelmed. As it was, I did finish each class and project just before needing to pack up the apartment and move from Scottsdale, AZ to Bullhead City, AZ where I am now residing.
I started a Fair Isle sweater in September and worked feverishly to complete it by the end of October. I did complete it except for the addition of the sleeves, but that was okay with me because I only wanted to learn the techniques not actually wear the sweater. I am very pleased with the results but have decided that Fair Isle is a little too intense for me. I will probably only use it for borders or small area designing. I like the colors and some designs better than others. I did not like the heaviness of the completed project. But I did use scrap yarn which was not all matched for weight and content. So I would definitely use a lighter weight yarn when making another sweater should that ever happen. I am pleased that I learned how to carry two different colors using both hands. I am pleased that I learned how to hide the beginning ends of yarn when first starting with a new color. Wrapping the yarn as I knit is a good way to strand the yarn without leaving the loose strands that are so easily caught when wearing the garment - another nice technique. Most of all, the purpose for desiring to take the class was to learn how to make and use steeks. This I did. Neat!
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| Steek knit in reverse stitch that can now be cut. The edging allows for easy picking up of stitches for then adding the sleeve or whatever else is needed. |
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| Side view with steel. |
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| Front view with pattern design clearly seen and collar finished. |
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| Palm Side |
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| Mitten Top Covering Fingers |
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| Fingers Exposed, Mitten Top Pulled Back |
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| Back of Hand |
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| Panties with short row shaping. Sides not stitched together. Unfinished waistband. |
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| Bra with shaping by increases and decreases stitches. Straps not knit as yet. Front closure. |
I took a class in October to learn Hairpin Crochet Lace. This craft requires a special tool for crocheting the yarn into a loopy lace. The process is simple to learn but laborious and somewhat boring to execute. The long panels required seemed to take forever to complete. When finished the panels are then attached to each other, which again seemed to take forever. I didn't really enjoy this project like I usually do. I did see the value of being able to teach the grandchildren something new that would be easy for them, but I wasn't able to visualize additional designs with this skill. So I will probably not be doing this again.
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| Hairpin Crochet Lace Frame with Finished Scarf |
The shop Knit Happens started a charity project which I decided to do in October. Why not, huh? I began a booties pattern for newborns and premies. Haven't finished them yet, but will.
Oh and I forgot that I also heard of a gift desired by a friend of mine and knit that for her too during this time frame.
I also started a skirt pattern (Sasha Skirt) that I had admired for some time to knit for myself. Tempe Yarn & Fiber carried the pattern although I had first seen it at Knit Happens. I purchased the pattern and bought the yarn in some yummy colors in linen that I still think I can wear in Arizona. I have begun the skirt by knitting the waistband. I used the same technique I learned from Danielle while knitting the panties. Her technique was better than the one the pattern used.
I finally took a class learning tatting. The technique I used was needle tatting rather than using shuttles. I was told that needle tatting is quicker and easier. I did enjoy the class very much. Found the technique is more simple than I expected. Tatting is used to design elegant edgings using chains and picots. Purchasing lace edging already made is easier and probably cheaper, but the tatted designs is an old art that I am very glad I have learned. Not sure what I will do with this skill just yet.
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| I made these. Aren't they lovely? So delicate and dainty! |
The last class I took before moving was Continental Knitting. I have always wanted to learn how to hold the yarn in both hands while knitting, but was taught the English method. So with this class I finally learned the secrets. BUT - I didn't care for the new way at all. I didn't find it easier or quicker. So I will keep my way for now and maybe try it again later. Probably not. <grin>
And of course, I am still designing. Currently working on a ribbed/cabled tank top.
With that last class out of the way and my projects finally completed (at least to the point I wanted them), I made the switch to packing boxes and moving and unpacking boxes. For those of you who follow what happens to me, here is the lowdown...
We bought a park model in a senior retirement community to be close to Steve's parents as they age so they can have peace of mind and not worry about what will happen to them or the care they might receive. We have not owned our own place before so this is quite the adventure for us. The park model sat empty for almost two years and was very dirty and in much need of TLC. Steve has taken to the task admirably. He spared me as much effort as possible by hiring Molly Maids to clean the apartment for the final inspection and two men to carry the boxes and load the truck saving me the up and down the steps routine. In Bullhead City he hired another cleaner to come in and empty the trailer and clean everything so we could move in without any hinderance. He also scheduled two unpackers to help us unload the truck after we arrived. Steve's dad took a power sprayer and cleaned the outside before we arrived. Steve's mom washed the bed linens and remade the bed so we could arrive without that chore facing us. That Friday, the day of moving, went smoothly. We arrived at 10:00 pm that evening tired but happy to have reached our anticipated destination safely.
The name of the park is Riverside Resort. The next morning was busy with a park-wide yard sale. Steve and I quickly sorted the items taken from the park model into the things we wanted to keep and the things we didn't. We placed all the unwanted items in the driveway with a sign that read "Free Items". By the end of the day, everything was gone. Then we proceeded to visit the other park owners to see what we might find to make our move easier. We bought a real nice desk that fit under one living room window nicely. We had built a makeshift desk in the apartment but dismantled it before we left. The new desk adds a real nice homey feeling to the front room and made it easy for us to continue with business issues while we found places for everything in the boxes. The unpackers arrived and transferred everything from the truck to the porch and the move-in began.
I must have been moving at full adrenal gland throttle because I worked hard until very late and then woke too early to begin again. But I couldn't actually rest until I had finished the task, so I just kept moving along. Finally about 4-5 days later I had everything out of the boxes and situated in the closets and cabinets the way I wanted. It amazes me that everything fit. The park model is smaller than the apartment and shorter than the motor coach, although a little wider. So I am amazed that all my things actually packed away as nicely as they have. I have two closets in the bedroom. Steve and I are sharing one for our clothing. The closet doors slide back and forth giving each of us one side. The bed fits in the room with approximately 2.5 feet around all edges. Tight but doable. The other closet is where all the items that were previously stored in the five foot lockers that we kept in the bus bay area and then underneath the bed in all following living quarters. These foot lockers held all my project supplies. I now have a closet with my tools, fabrics, yarns, and dress form. I also was able to store all those items that everyone keeps but does not necessarily use all the time, like old photos and all those things the children and grandchildren give me.
The kitchen was a real challenge. I have lots of kitchen tools, gadgets, cookbooks, food items, etc. I sorted everything into the areas where they will be used and then proceeded to pack them for ease of use. This took two long days. I moved and rearranged and then moved again until I had it just right. Now I can maneuver in my kitchen easily. I am still discovering where I put things and forgetting just how to cook smoothly. But I know that will become easier as I adjust. It was actually funny when I prepared the first meal. My mind would remember where the needed item(s) were in the apartment, then think of the box into which it was packed, then where I placed it in the new kitchen. I would stand in the center of the room, turning while reflecting, then finally retrieve the necessary tool. Steve was hopeless. He just stood there with a blank expression. I told him just to ask until he finally knew where everything was now placed. Now, a month later, he hardly asks at all but moves about almost as easily as I do.
Another challenge for me was arranging my knitting supplies for easy access. In the apartment, I had my yarn, my books, my projects all arranged for easy close access around me. I could sit and knit. I could talk on the phone and knit. I could visit and knit. I could watch TV and knit. I could eat and knit. All my books were on the shelf under the table in front of the couch in the living room where I sat. Get the point. Well, the new place had no table in front of the couch with a shelf underneath. The new place had no space around it for the tools, yarn, or projects. Consternation! What to do? I was actually experience withdrawal symptoms and much distress!!! First order of business was to fix me. I arranged a table beside my chair that allowed my current projects to be handy and easy to pick up at a moment's choosing. Then the cookbooks were rearranged so that the bookshelf could now hold the knitting books instead. Not as close as before, but still only a few steps away. I could feel the relief already. Now, where to put the yarn. Ahhhhh, the closet with new plastic drawers made my access even easier than the footlockers under the previous bed. Now I was breathing more slowly and actually relaxing and planning my next project after the mittens were finished. Life was back to my normal and I could now enjoy living here. Everything is in order again. <smile>
Once we were unpacked Steve and I started meeting the other park members (our neighbors) by joining several ongoing and special planned community events. Of course, we met many new friends at the yard sale and those passing our place curious about our arrival. My first visit was with the gals meeting to make quilts. I am now piecing fabric for the current project - oval placemats. I chose colors that are in my china and hope the finished mats will enhance the place setting. If not, someone gets them as a gift or I sell them at the next yard sale. No matter, I learn the techniques. I also decided to make the "mystery quilt" project. I was right in time to receive the first week's task. I bought the fabric learning about fat quarters in the process. We are currently at the fourth week's task. I have cut my fabric, sewn several together and now will place those pieces into a design I like; then stitch. With all the grandchildren I have, someone will benefit from my efforts.
There is no knitting groups in our park that I have found. One lady knits or crochets, not sure which, prayer shawls that she gives away in church for those who need one. There are no knit shops in Bullhead City. The closest one is in Kingman, which is 45 mins. drive away. So I have started my own group. I placed an announcement in the monthly newsletter and expect to see some others join me throughout December.
Steve's parents love to gamble and go to the casino regularly. They enjoy Bingo as well. Steve and I joined them at the casino for the bus trip with free buffet excursion. We also joined them for the weekly playing at the clubhouse across the street from our place. We have decided that we will not be doing this very often. We don't enjoy just handing our money to the casinos and can enjoy a better time eating a buffet without the gambling as part of the package. Anyway, Steve reminded me that we need to spend our time remodeling our place and not throwing away our money "hoping" to win. I agree!
There is a weekly "potluck" dinner and we participate in it eagerly. We meet many of our neighbors and get to enjoy the fun of the various dishes prepared each week. We will happily continue this activity. We were invited to try pickle ball, which we did, and while we enjoyed ourselves, we will probably only do that if another couple wants to plan a game or two. We gave water aerobics a try and will do that when we can, but right now it conflicts with the quilting group and I prefer to keep that activity. We went to "Stretch and Tone" a couple times and will do that as often as we can. It is early in the morning and we don't always rise and shine at that time. We began learning to line dance, which we both enjoy. That will be a keeper activity. Mom and I go to Bunco, a dice game, each week. We enjoy the fun of that game and I will probably continue that with her. We currently attend church here in the park each Sunday, but we may find a church home elsewhere. Add laundry, cooking, cleaning, shopping, and the holiday celebrations and you have two very busy people right now. But we are finding our new home to be very satisfying. We may be here to stay for a very long time. <fingers crossed>
Steve is planning to double our floor space by enclosing the porch. Most people make an Arizona room from their addition, but we are going to enclose the porch and remove the center walls, rearrange the room designs and open up the ceiling. I drew the design on paper so he could better see what is needed. There are lots of HOA regulations and city limitations we need to consider. As soon as we can decipher all the information, plan our work schedule, and make sure the funds are in place, we will begin. Right now, however, we have our hands full just getting the current place livable in the mean time.
So there you have it. I am up to date with my blog. Now it is time to go knit. See you later.
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