Saturday, October 20, 2007

Finished Socks


Yarn: Trekking - Pro Natura, 4ply sock yarn - 1 ball 460 yards (75% Wool, 25% Bamboo)
Needles: size 2 Double Pointeds
Pattern: Yankee Knitter Designs - "Classic Socks for the Family"
Size: Men's large (size 11 feet!)
Notes: These are for my brother for Christmas. I really like the yarn. I'd never knit with it before and I was afraid they'd be a little stiff. But, the finished socks are pretty soft and will only get softer with wear. This is the second Christmas gift I've finished so far. December is right around the corner!

Wednesday, October 10, 2007

Squatty SideKick

Is finally felted!

I had started this project and just put it down prior to felting it. I was thinking that I needed a washing machine to felt it correctly...since I'm in an apartment with no washing machine I was a little discouraged. But, a couple weekends ago (sorry, I'm just getting it posted now) I did a little Googling and figured I'd give some hand felting a try.

To my surprise, hand felting this little bag was a breeze. I ended up using a mix and match process that I gleaned from several different sources (see below). I used the bathroom sink, as hot water as I could draw out of the tap (which was pretty hot!), an ice cube tray, and a small bucket of cold water.

The Patons SWS felts very easily and I think looks great when it's done. It only took me 15 minutes total. Here's how I did mine: I soaked the bag in the hot water for a couple minutes to make sure it was thoroughly wet...then started rubbing it across the top of the ice cube tray. After a little dunking in hot water and rubbing on the tray I dunked it into the cold water for a bit. After alternating this combo several times I rang it out carefully to check the process. After 15 minutes it was exactly what I was looking for.

Here are some good online resources to check out if you are trying this as home:
After felting, I wrapped it tightly in a towel and gently squeezed the water out. To block it I stuffed it with plastic shopping bags to just the right fullness and set it on my clothes dryer to dry next to a sunny window.

Next up is to add a lining. I don't think the pattern calls for it but I think it needs one. It'll make it a little more sturdy and a bit more professional looking. I'll post the finished bag when I finally get it done.

Here are some close ups for your felt loving pleasure!