Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Cobweb Frill


Araucania Ruca yarn



I have been a long time fan of the Cobweb Frill, however have been too scared to even test it out, let alone use it on a project.  Until now.  I suppose I've been afraid because dropping stitches is involved.  As a knitter, most of the time we do everything we can to keep from dropping stitches. Panic normally ensues when a stitch is dropped, and even worse if that stitch should start to unravel!  It is hard to convince ourselves it is ok to intentionally drop stitches, and let them unravel clear back to the cast on edge.  But fear no more!  This is a beautiful thing, so go ahead and drop those stitches!


Patons Angora Bamboo yarn



Work on a multiple of 3 +1

Ktbl = Knit through the back loop


Part One
Row 1: Ktbl *P2, Ktbl*
Row 2: P1 *Ktbl, K1, P1*

Repeat the above two rows until frill is the desired length.  Be sure to end on Row 2.

Next Row: Ktbl *Drop next stitch from left needle without working it, P1, Ktbl*

Part Two
Row 1: P1 *Ktbl, P1*
Row 2: Ktbl *P1, Ktbl*

Repeat these two rows twice more.  Unravel the dropped stitches do the cast on edge.

If you plan to sew the frill onto an already completed piece, then bind off at this point.  Or, you may simply continue on to knitting your main pattern.  Do keep in mind that 1/3 of the stitches are going to be dropped, so you will need to make sure you account for those stitches when casting on, if you are going to go straight into your main pattern.

If you are comfortable with dropping stitches, you may want to check out Clapotis, by Kate Gilbert.  This fabulous scarf appeared in the Fall 2004 issue of Knitty.

Here is the video.  Happy Knitting and Enjoy!



Saturday, February 4, 2012

Sandstorm Cable



usually don't do cable stitches, because they tend to be more involved than other stitch patterns.  However, this particular stitch pattern was requested by someone who saw it in my blanket in the "Oops" video.  So, here it is!

Work on a multiple of 12 stitches + 6  (You will need to have extra stitches on each edge to neaten theup keep the fabric in shape.  (Cables tend to pull fabric inward - you can see this in the sample in the video.)

Notes:  
  1. To Cable Front:  Slip next 3 stitches to cable needle, and hold in front of the work.  Knit 3 from left needle, then knit the 3 from cable needle.
  2. To Cable Back, slip next 3 stitches to cable needle, and hold in back of the work.  Knit 3 from left needle, then knit the 3 from cable needle.


Row 1: Knit all stitches
Row 2 and every alternate Row: Purl all stitches
Row 3: *Cable 6 front, K6*.  Repeat from * to last 6 stitches, Cable 6 front
Row 5: Knit all stitches
Row 7: *K6, Cable 6 back*.  Repeat from * to last 6 stitches, K6
*Don't forget Row 8 - a purl row

Repeat these 8 Rows for pattern.  


Here is a video - I only show Row 3 and Row 7 where the cables are worked, to save time.  Happy Knitting!