What's New?

Yes, I know: it doesn't look like much, but I thought I'd better show you what I'm working on while it's in progress, as it'll be a while before I can show you photos of it finished.

This is the Cabled Baby Blanket from Simply Baby. I really thought I'd get fed up with all of those cables, and the fact that there isn't a single area of mindless stocking stitch where I can catch up in speed, but in fact I'm really enjoying it. I've always loved cables, and these ones are forming a nice visual pattern. The wool is very soft and it's going to be very snuggly for a little one.

Here are the cables up close. I'm knitting much looser than I normally would so that it stretches well when I block it. I don't want it to end up handkerchief-sized!

I promise to document my progress on this WIP.

Above is the most wonderful pompom, designed and made by my friend Louise's Sister Ruth. She's so talented; I just think this is the most original idea. I've been meaning to show it to you for ages, but kept forgetting.

It hangs in our bedroom and brightens even the most grey morning!

Ruth has just had a little boy, and people are always encouraging her to sell her goods more; maybe she'll have some time now. I hope she does; she deserves to get credit for her creations. If so, I'll let you know where you can buy them (they come in all sorts of colours, shapes and sizes).

Baby Shrug

This is the Baby Shrug by Debbie Bliss from Simply Baby.

This is the most wonderful book. I want to make almost everything in it, which is a miracle considering I bought it without having seen it beforehand. I already have the yarn (yes of course, new purchases - yarn ban, what yarn ban?) for a couple of other projects, including a striped jumper. I have also got this yarn, Cashmerino Aran in dusty pink to make a larger version of the same bolero. I had never bought a Debbie Bliss book before, never mind a baby one, as I'd been saving this as a treat over the years. Now I'm so glad I've finally succumbed.

The Cashmerino Aran is the softest, most beautiful yarn and knits up so well (and quickly - bonus); I can't believe I haven't knitted with it before. This little shrug, size 3-6 months took two evenings when DH and I were on holiday.

Don't you love the lavendar colour? I wasn't sure when I picked it out as I don't normally go for this colour, but I'm so in love with it now!

When I was making it I couldn’t see how the sleeves were going to be long enough for arms, but they worked out fine. You knit the entire garment in one piece (can you see why I chose this pattern?!). Actually I chose it before I read through the pattern, and the one-piece-factor was a pleasant bonus. Then you just pick up stitches almost all around to create the ribbed edging. Sounds complicated, but wasn't in the slightest.

Sewing up the sides under the arms was a bit tricky. They aren’t the same length, so they’re gathered a bit at the back under the arm, but I think it’ll be fine when it’s on.

My only criticism of my version is that the front of mine looks curvier than the rounded curve of that in the book, but I didn't go wrong anywhere according to the pattern, and followed it faithfully. I'm sure it will straighten itself out once it's on a little body.