Friday, August 31, 2012

What's on my needles: August 31

Lots has happened this summer, but I just am not quite ready to write about it yet.  For some reason, I felt I needed to post my reflections about those things before I resumed posting about the crafty things... not quite sure what that is all about, but I no longer feel that way.  I've missed blogging, so I hope blogging becomes part of my normal routine again....

Judy over at Patchwork Times has a Friday Linky for "What's on Your Needles" Click here!  I do love my knitting! Here's what I'm working on now:




This is part of the beginnings of a shawl based on the pattern Meghan Jackson's Forget-Me-Knot Shawl using a gradient yarn crafted by Laura and Kelly at The Unique Sheep  This is their Verve yarn base in the Peacock colorway; the four color graduated skeins total 400 yards. 

The pattern calls for 430 yards of yarn and gives two options: nupps (a small multi wrapped bobble) or beads.  As I'm short on yarn, I chose beads.  They are quite subtle and as there are not many; they will not add much weight.

There are several ways to add beads.  In my opinion, the least tedious method uses Super Floss... yep!  Here is a link to a blog that describes the super floss method as well as other popular ways: Fleegle's Blog about adding beads

I usually cut off a lot of the longer, floppier floss beyond the fluff and then wrap what remains through the holes in a cute button.  Not the best photo... but you get the idea.  This is such a great way to carry the beads along.  When I finish adding the beads, I weave the loose end into the button holes too.  Works flawlessly.

My plan is to give this shawl as a Christmas gift.  Best get busy!

Hope the last couple of months have been wonderful for you and yours!