Digital Cleaning

from Google images

When I see a knitting/quilting pattern that I like, I save it on the computer. If I see a clever idea or tip, I save it on the computer. After years of saving and organizing these patterns and files, it was time to see how many of them still appealed to me.

I've been working on this digital cleaning process for several days, and I'm slowly making progress. I've discovered multiple copies of some patterns. I found patterns that I'm sure gremlins must have saved, because they designs were hideous. One by one, the patterns are previewed and a quick decision made - keep or delete.

The "knitting" files are finished, and I'm moving on to the "quilting" files. From there, I will move to other crafting files. Once the craft files are reduced, I'll tackle the photos, the health files, and . . .

Do you save patterns on your computer? How do you organize them?

Mindless Knitting

Simply Garter Scarf
April 2019

The Simply Garter Scarf reached the 12-inch mark last week during knitting group. I'm slipping the first stitch on each row to get a nice smooth edge. The yarn is striping different than I thought it would, but I still like the colors.

I'm knitting scarf with 40 stitches on size 6 needles. The knit width is approximately 7 inches.

(click image to enlarge)

Decisions, Decisions . . .

fabric slivers trimmed from quilt  blocks
April 2019

I did manage to sneak in some sewing time last week, and finished sewing the Tail Feathers blocks.

blocks trimmed, squared, and ready to sew into a quilt top
April 2019

The blocks were placed on my "design floor," and I played with the placement a bit. My quilt consultants (Marilyn, Brenda, and Sheri) helped me to select a layout. Here were the two choices:

Option "A"

Option "B"

Which layout do you like best?

Guacamayo Socks

Guacamayo socks
April 2019

I had hoped to have this pair of socks finished by Easter, but unfortunately, that will probably not happen.

This yarn is a delight to knit - soft and springy, and the colors are fun, too. The brand is "new to me," and if it passes two more tests (in the laundry), I will look for it again in a yarn shop.

In my opinion, sock-worthy yarn must:
       •  be fun to knit
       •  not pill when worn or laundered
       •  not bloom when laundered

Yarn: Araucania Yarn - Huasco Sock (Color # 1006 Guacamayo)
          75% superwah wool, 25% polyamide

Needles: US size 2

Stitch count: 64 stitches

What is your criteria for "sock-worthy" yarn?

Sockhead Cowl #2

Sockhead Cowl
April 2019

Sockhead Cowl #2 is off the needles. This project is a great way to use sock yarn to create a cozy cowl, snood, and neck warmer.

Pattern: Sockhead Cowl by Kelly McClure (free on Ravelry)

Needles: US size 6

Yarn: Cascade Yarns - Heritage 150 Paints sock yarn (color #9960)
          75% merino superwash wool, 25% nylon

Getting My Ducks in a Row

image from Google images

Perhaps you noticed that I didn't have any posts last week. I used the time for annual appointments and for getting my "ducks in a row" to update my will, trust, and other important documents.

If you don't have a will, advanced care directive (living will), organ donation authorization, or a trust, I encourage you to seriously consider preparing the documents. Yes, the attorney fees may be considerable, but not having the documents may cost your family more than money - I know from experience. I've been through an ugly struggle twice - once after my mother died and the second after my brother died.

"Things" and money carry different weight with individuals, and those family members you think you know will turn into completely different people when property and money are involved.

Don't risk having an estranged family after your death: get your ducks in a row!