Over the past few years, I have discovered that creativity and depression do not play well together. This is particularly evident in my writing or at least how long it has been since I have posted. On the bright side, I am feeling much better now. So for 2015, I am focusing on new beginnings.
I am already working on improving my health. I am actually exercising now. I got a Fit Desk for my birthday so now I can use my computer and work out at the same time to make the boring parts of exercise more fun.
My knitting goals for 2015 are to learn new things and to start back writing patterns. I am happy to report that both goals are on track. I started knitting Melia by Ysolda Teague back in October but it is still teaching me new tricks. And I purchased a copy of Lara Neel’s Sock Architecture to try some new socks heels.
My January trick was the clever origami pockets (my name for the unusual construction) of the Melia cardigan. The back of the pocket is knit in line with the sweater while part of the sides is held for later. Once the back of the pockets reaches the halfway point, the side stitches are reintroduced and stitches for the front of the pocket are picked up from the back section of the sweater. The front of the pocket is knit magically over the top of the back of the pocket. Took some effort to get my mind wrapped around the instructions but it is certainly clever construction.
I have also begun trying out new sock heels in my goal to find the best, most perfect sock heel ever. My February lesson was the Thumb Joint heel from the Fork in the Road pattern by Lara Neel. The heel itself is rather clever in its construction. It is almost an afterthought heel but worked in line with the sock rather than later. It has a few issues but I will withhold my final analysis until I have completed the socks and have had time to check the fit and comfort. On the long and boring foot now.
My March goal was to jump-start my pattern writing. With that goal I have been reading Kate Atherley’s book Pattern Writing for Knit Designers and using the principles I am learning to finish writing some of my partially written patterns that I never quite got completed. I have finished writing three patterns so far. One is currently in test knitting; one is ready for test knitting; and the third was released just today. If feels good to be back at the designer’s drafting table.
Presenting my first pattern in longer than I care to admit.
Samwise Gamgee
This sock pattern, like the Lord of the Rings character for which it was named, is practical and simple. The stitch pattern is easy to memorize, but not boring, making it a great TV or travel knit. The design is compact so it can handle self-striping and many variegated yarns. The texture gives the sock a nice stretch to make it fit a broader range of people.
Pattern is worked in the round from the top down. Pattern is carried down the heel. It features a horseshoe heel (heel flap and gusset construction). Instructions are detailed but assume you have basic knowledge of top down sock construction including turning a heel, picking up stitches, and Kitchener stitch grafting. Includes both written and charted instructions. Suitable for advanced beginner to intermediate knitters.
Pattern available for a special introductory price of $3.00
