Retrobaby

Last Chance

2012-03-01T19:34:00.001+01:00

Remember to join my giveaway - last chance tonight!

Click on the picture to read more and leave your comment:

Good luck!

Two Way Dress Nomination

2012-02-28T13:49:00.002+01:00

I recently finished this dress for my youngest daughter:

And lo and behold: I've been nominated in a contest the Pickles-girls are hosting (it's their pattern).

I would be very grateful if you would vote for me (my dress is number 6), but I must say I love all the other dresses there as well! Voting ends at midnight 4 March, Norwegian time (GMT + 1).

My two way dress is raveled here. More pics:

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 8

2012-02-24T19:34:00.000+01:00

It's a one-designer-special this week. You've probably seen some of her designs already - Veera Välimäki!

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Have a great and knitty weekend!

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 7

2012-02-17T15:42:00.000+01:00

Some treats this week - I'm looking forward to knitting the 16 sixteen cable hat at some point!

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Happy weekend!

Welcome, Baby

2012-02-15T16:14:00.002+01:00

Some friends of us welcomed their baby girl early this morning, hooray! Good thing I finished this little gift last night. The pattern is a favorite of mine; fast, easy and cute. I really enjoyed the yarn as well: Pickles' Cash Kid.

Ravelry details here.

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 6

2012-02-10T22:24:00.002+01:00

A bit late, but here you are:

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 5

2012-02-03T19:50:00.000+01:00

Accessories! Always fun and rewarding to knit. Here are a few of my present favorites:

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

I'm knitting a dress for one of my girls at the moment, plus a pair of socks for myself, but I'm definitely going to make the Cambridge shawl above at one point. And there's always at least five new projects in my mental knitting queue.. Sounds familiar?
Have a great week end!

Birthday Giveaway Closed

2012-02-01T21:12:00.002+01:00

It's a bit over a year since I started blogging, and it's time to celebrate! I'm guessing that my readers are yarnistas as myself, so I've had a look in my (ever growing) yarn stash, and here's what you could win:

Mostly merino wool, but also some shetland soft, alpaca, cotton and some mystery wool. And I'll even throw in a cute tote bag from Loop in London to one of the lucky winners!

The rules are simple:

Leave a comment below = one ticket in the lottery
Put a picture link to the giveaway on your own blog = another ticket
Write a post about the giveaway on your own blog = yet another ticket

So you could get a total of three tickets, and the chances to win are quite good, given all the yarn (over 1100 grams)! So spread the word and leave your comment by the end of 1 March (midnight Norwegian time = GMT + 1), cross your fingers and wait for the winners to be announced on 2 March. Entries from all over the world are welcome!

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 4

2012-01-27T20:25:00.000+01:00

It's been way too long since I shared some new Ravelry favorites with you, but finally, here are my top picks this week:

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

A Year in Knitting

2012-01-18T14:43:00.000+01:00

This is a bit of what I knitted last year - check out my Ravelry project page for more!

I'm looking forward to another productive year, and this time I won't write down any new year's resolutions as I never seem to follow them.. Well, I have one, and that's to get back on blogging track and start up again with my Ravelry Friday Favorites. Stay tuned!

The Joys of Blogging

2011-12-28T15:06:00.001+01:00

A while back I won a blog lottery over at Pyssel och Knäp, and the sweet Maria threw in a lot of other goodies as well - just look:

Stitch markers, a magnet for keeping track of where you are in a lace chart, and a skein of lovely Drops Lace yarn. I can't wait to try this yarn out, thank you Maria for this great pre-Christmas surprise!

Christmas Production

2011-12-19T16:00:00.001+01:00

As on many other blogs, there's a Christmas silence here – I'm too busy knitting! But OK, here are some of this year's gifts (the recipents don't know who I've made these for, so I guess there's no harm in posting these):

A quick cowl (Raveled here) in lovely yarn from tuLLiBaLL – perfect for that last minute gift you need to make!

And a project that took longer, but was equally agreeable to knit:

(Raveled here) A lovely shawl in new-to-me madelinetosh tosh merino light – definitely not the last time I use madelinetosh! And I loved the pattern too, it is hereby recommended.

Wishing you all a peaceful and social Christmas celebration, if I don't get back to you before the weekend!

Purple Uppercut

2011-11-20T19:00:00.000+01:00

This was a pleasant knit - fast, but with an edgy design:

The yarn was a pleasant new acquaintance as well: Cotton and wool from Geilsk.

All details can be found on Ravelry.

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 45

2011-11-14T15:21:00.001+01:00

Long overdue - sorry! Busy times. In between my Christmas gift knitting I plan to knit a cardigan for myself, perhaps one of these?

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 44

2011-11-04T13:32:00.000+01:00

Many of you have already seen the news from Brooklyn Tweed; a new yarn (in fingering weight, my favorite!) and an incredibly beautiful look book to go with it. Here are some highlights from the Loft collection:

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 43

2011-10-28T21:07:00.000+02:00

I'm finally back on track with my blogging (today, anyway) and this Friday I thought I would share some gift knitting tips – perfect for those Christmas gifts.. I've tried all of these patterns and can recommend them!

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Worst Blogger Award

2011-10-22T15:13:00.000+02:00

I'm so sorry guys: I've been a lousy blogger lately, and things aren't about to change quite yet. But at least I'm knitting a lot, so stay tuned for updates at a later stage!

Missing in Action

2011-10-09T11:22:00.000+02:00

Sorry - no time for the ususal Ravelry Favorites this week, since I'm in Oslo on a short trip. This isn't my doing, but it sure looks cool:

(guerilla knitting in Oslo, photo by ywea)

Have a great Sunday!

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 39

2011-09-30T16:30:00.000+02:00

I've rediscovered a great designer (especially when it comes to shawls); Susanna IC. I plan to knit at least one of her lovely designs shortly (perhaps Little Leaves?).

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 38

2011-09-24T09:58:00.001+02:00

(A bit delayed - it was a busy day yesterday!)

I've shown you some of Brooklyn Tweed's designs before - but in the recently published BT Fall 11 there are so many beautiful things I just had to use an entire Friday Favorites post on them:

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

I love the look of the Shelter yarn, but haven't tried it (yet). Have you?

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 37

2011-09-16T18:54:00.001+02:00

I'm looking for an elegant shrug to use over the Christmas dress - perhaps one of these?

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Which one is your favorite?

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 36

2011-09-10T11:07:00.001+02:00

I've just started knitting a Chalice blanket for a baby due in January (not mine!) and I love the pattern! Easy and great looking. But there are so many great patterns to choose from, just look at these:

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Finally Paying It Forward

2011-09-04T14:43:00.000+02:00

A while ago, I invited three people to join my 'Pay If Forward' - and finally my surprises are ready! They will be sent off tomorrow, so be sure to check in on Maria, Anette and A World of Art to see what they receive.

Update: The gifts have arrived, so I guess I can reveal them:

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 35

2011-09-02T07:30:00.000+02:00

Fall is here, and fall means lots of knitting magazines, collections, new colorways and so on. Here are my top picks from the recent issue of Knitcircus:

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 34

2011-08-26T16:38:00.000+02:00

A Norwegian designer's gloves grace the cover of the latest Vogue Knitting - so this week I'm focusing on a selection from that issue:

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Happy weekend!

Batch of Projects

2011-08-25T16:00:00.000+02:00

I've completed quite a few projects recently: First, a sweater that has been on the needles forever and that I finally finished thanks to Nøstebarn's summer challenge:

Raveled here.

I've also made a baby gift in oh-so-soft cashmere:

Raveled here.

And a pair of fingerless mittens - love this pattern and plan to make more!

Raveled here.

And I have lots of plans for Christmas gifts knitting plus all the other things I would like to make.

How about you, has the autumn knitting inspiration kicked in?

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 33

2011-08-19T17:00:00.001+02:00

This week I'm highlighting designer Amy Swenson:

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designer. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

(Love the man's pullover with the reversible feature!)

Arctic Baby Gift

2011-08-17T21:51:00.001+02:00

This little set is on its way to a baby in Svalbard. A somewhat overdue gift, but hopefully it will still fit!

The booties are raveled here and the mittens here (~~pattern on its way, I promise!~~ Pattern is up!).

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 32

2011-08-12T14:00:00.000+02:00

I'm in the hood this week! Hoods look great on many garments, but more often than not I tend to avoid them, knit wise (thinking the extra work won't be worth it). I think I'll have to reconsider my hood phobia, just look:

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 31

2011-08-05T16:00:00.000+02:00

This week I've picked my favorites from the current Knitty First Fall 2011.

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 30

2011-07-29T15:30:00.001+02:00

I recently discovered the talented Robin Ulrich and today's post is all about her designs. I know I'll have to knit the shoulder wrap some time! And the gray cowl, and the ruffled shawl..

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Wish you all a peaceful weekend.

Knitting and Healing

2011-07-28T10:00:00.004+02:00

In times like these, I find great comfort in my knitting. Something to keep my hands busy and my mind off the recent atrocities in Oslo and Utøya. And I know many people use knitting to releave them of stress and anxieties. But did you know that knitting can in fact be used as a healing therapy? Read this article to find out more.

Oh, and please take a moment to listen to this song friends and acquaintances of mine have written after the tragedy last week.

From Chaos to Order

2011-07-27T17:00:00.000+02:00

Although my head is a mess of emotions and thoughts, it's good to know that my circular needles are all sorted out. Before:

And after:

I bought the Namaste needles case here. I wonder if I might need one in Eggplant as well..

Ravelry Favorites, Week 29

2011-07-23T15:23:00.004+02:00

First of all: What a horrific couple of days for Oslo, Utøya and Norway. No one I know is directly involved in the tragic incidents, but Norway is a small country and we're all deeply shaken by the attacks. I'm at a loss for words, but Petchy says what I'm thinking.

Next, on to the more trivial stuff: This week I planned on showing you my favorite fingerless mittens. Quick to knit and so classy!

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Green Pickles

2011-07-19T22:11:00.000+02:00

In between other knitting I had a go at Another Plain Vest from Pickles (pattern in Norwegian here). A really quick and easy knit, just what we need for summer! (Although the vest itself won't come to use for another year, I think..)

Raveled here.

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 28

2011-07-15T16:30:00.000+02:00

I want to highlight one of my favorite knitted pieces for kids today - the vest! So quick to knit, and so versatile.

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Have a great summer weekend!

Revamped Resolutions

2011-07-13T16:30:00.001+02:00

With half of 2011 gone, I thought I'd check my New Year's resolutions and make a status report. But first, my recent yarn purchase for your viewing pleasure:

Click on the image to see where it's bought

Well, thing are not too bad:

knit more for myself - I'm not there yet, but I have big plans

knit at least one lace shawl - Check!

learn the two-socks-at-a-time technique - Check! No finished socks yet, though

sell off some yarn, and not buy new without a specific project in mind - Check on the first, and total fail on the second part. That's just not how my knitting brain works. I buy yarn first, then decide what to make.

start early on the Christmas gifts knitting - Sort of. It's still 'early', right?

design a pattern or two - Not yet. These things take time..

To sum up, I'm quite pleased. I'll be back with an update in December!

Not Exactly Grandpa's Colors

2011-07-11T16:30:00.001+02:00

..but they're definitely my son's! I finished this (Bestefarstrøye fra Nøstebarn) over the weekend:

Raveled here.

I'm happy with it although I managed to knit a hybrid of sizes.. The stripes added up perfectly and it was a quick knit, even with all the loose ends to weave in at the end. I think I'll try the roll-up sweater next!

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 27

2011-07-08T12:59:00.000+02:00

Since I'm knitting on this sweater, I was inspired to do a Nøstebarn Special this Friday. All of the designs below are from the book 'Strikk til Nøstebarn' - a must-have for every knitter!

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Cobblestone, My Dear

2011-07-07T11:00:00.000+02:00

At long last - I've finished hubby's sweater! (The yarn, pattern and a promise to make the sweater was my Christmas present for him back in 2009, so this was way overdue.)

It felt a bit slouchy (and was too large) when finished, so I felted it lightly. I really love the texture of it now! (It did turn out a bit too short, but hubby says he doesn't mind, and NO WAY I'm making him another this year!)
Raveled here.

Pay It Forward

2011-07-03T18:00:00.003+02:00

No, not the movie, but a concept in the blogging world: You receive a present from a fellow blogger, and within 365 days you're supposed to pay it forward to three new people. Who in turn will send presents to three new people each, and so on and so on. It's like a giant chain letter, but without the threat that something bad will happen if you fail to obey the rules..

This spring, I received these goodies from Marion:

~~Would you like to get something from me? The first three people to leave a comment are in!~~ Comments closed!

You can live anywhere in the world, but you will need a blog to show off your present - and to invite new recipients.

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 26

2011-07-01T17:45:00.001+02:00

I read over at Maria's blog that Ysolda Teague's book Little Red in the City has arrived - and so I was inspired to make a tribute post tp Ysolda's designs this Friday:

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Summer Knitting Challenge

2011-06-27T21:28:00.002+02:00

Knitting is slow and inspiration is low in summer, but at least I'm participating in Nøstebarn's summer challenge - are you?

I'm making this, and it's supposed to be finished by August 20. Should be possible, even at my slow summer pace. Love the cheerful colors!

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 25

2011-06-24T22:29:00.000+02:00

A few of the recently added designs on Ravelry this Friday:

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 24

2011-06-18T22:13:00.000+02:00

(OK, so it's Saturday, but to my excuse I've started working full-time again, plus it's summer!)

This year I'm going to start early on the Christmas presents. What better quick project in the summer heat than a hat? Here are some favorites:

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 23

2011-06-10T16:13:00.000+02:00

It's super hot outside (we're talking probably the warmest we'll get this summer!) so I've picked out some summery knits for you today:

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 22

2011-06-03T11:42:00.000+02:00

Hi there! Today I've picked out some of my favorite cardigans and sweaters for the ladies:

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Lucky Me

2011-05-30T13:10:00.000+02:00

I was fortunate enough to win a Nøstebarn competition earlier this spring with my redesigned soaker, and while I was in Oslo recently I took the opportunity to use the gift card in one of their stores. Planned on buying only stuff for myself, but ended up with yarn + three T-shirts in wool/silk for the kids:

And everyone was pleased with the choice!

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 21

2011-05-27T20:54:00.000+02:00

Busy week, busy day. But here are my favorite cowls from Ravelry (and they happen to be in my favorite color tones, too):

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 20

2011-05-20T15:10:00.003+02:00

Some quick crochet this week - I haven't tried any of these patterns myself, but certainly will!

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Cute Mary Janes

2011-05-18T11:00:00.000+02:00

Hope you had a great celebration yesterday! We sure did, with lots of ice cream and fun for the kids, and good food and company for all of us. I'm off to the big city (well, Oslo to be exact) for a week and won't be blogging, but hopefully knitting and crocheting. My latest project has been these cute slippers:

(Please ignore my milky white feet.) Loved the pattern, love the mary janes! My ravelry notes can be found here (I did some adjustments).
So long!

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 19

2011-05-13T19:23:00.000+02:00

This week I've concentrated on socks - enjoy!

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Silky Gray Shawlette

2011-05-10T10:21:00.000+02:00

I love gray, and I love wool/silk yarn. And I love projects that doesn't take too long. So this was an instant success:

The yarn is 50/50 silk merino from tuLLiBaLL and the pattern is Mindy Wilkes' Holden Shawlette. My Ravelry notes can be found here.

The Knit Kit

2011-05-09T10:25:00.000+02:00

I first saw this ingenious little kit mentioned at Jannike's Smuleblogg, and then Maria went to London and bought one, and described it thoroughly. Little time was wasted before I got my own, from Loveknitting.se.

With shipping the total price was NOK 175. And now I can always leave home with my knitting (and this kit) knowing that I'm prepared for anything. You can even bring it with you on the plane, scissors and all!

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 18

2011-05-06T10:02:00.000+02:00

In just 11 days it's Norway's Constitution Day - perhaps you've got time to whip up something in red, white or blue?

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Have a great weekend!

Blast From the Past

2011-05-05T11:03:00.001+02:00

I found an old classic at Fretex yesterday:

Yay! I loved these when I was younger. I suspect the attraction has faded a little, but still hours (of well, maybe 30 minutes) of entertainment await me..

11 Months Today

2011-05-04T11:00:00.000+02:00

Look at this cool dude helping out in the garden:

In just a month he turns one! Where did all that time go?

Modern Top-Down Knitting

2011-05-03T11:43:00.001+02:00

I finally bought a book instead of just borrowing at the library. Kristina McGowan's book from 2010:

And my, this is a treat. Hardcover, lovely photographs, great instructions for the top-down technique and for finishing a garment, and it's even on sale at Amazon for just $17.62! And the patterns (26 in all) are beautiful too, the only thing I could have wished for was more cardigans. Here's a selection:

Luxury Yarn Sale

2011-05-02T09:51:00.009+02:00

I've had a little spring cleaning in the stash, selling off some goodies. Some of the yarn, like Wollmeise and The Plucky Knitter is very popular and hard to come by, so I'm selling for the same price as I paid. Other yarn has been discounted.

Click on the images to get more info on quality, weight etc. Shipping is not included. First come first serve - e-mail me if you'd like to buy something: retrobabydesign@yahoo.com
We're a smoke free, cat friendly home (but the cats don't come near the yarn).

4 x 50 g of The Plucky Knitter Aran Cashmere, colorway Mystery Man, NOK 150/each:

150 g Kauni EZ, NOK 80: *SOLD*

100 g The Plucky Knitter 100% Merino Superwash, colorway Clever Clover, NOK 120: *SOLD*

2 x 113 g The Sanguine Gryphon Skinny Bugga, colorway Pink-Toed Tarantula, NOK 150/each: *SOLD*

150 g Wollmeise 80/20 Twin, colorway Stella Polaris *SOLD*

2 x 150 g Wollmeise 100% Merino Superwash, colorway Grashupher, NOK 200/each: *SOLD*

100 g of The Plucky Knitter Primo, colorway Magenta Sass, NOK 150: *SOLD*

100 g of The Plucky Knitter Primo, colorway In the Navy, NOK 150: *SOLD*

Colorful Clockwork

2011-04-30T15:34:00.004+02:00

I've seen something similar done (in crochet) on another blog, but I can't remember which one.. Perhaps you can tell me? Anyway, it's a quick way to brighten up a dull wall clock in no time:

Here's the 'before picture':

Easy peasy: I cast on 16 stitches and knitted in garter stitch for as long as necessary. Then sewed the two short ends together, forming a loop to thread on the clock frame. I crocheted around the inner edge and pulled a thread into the back edge to fasten. See my Ravely notes for more details!

And best of all: No threads needed fastening, I just tucked them underneath the edge..

This is my contribution to the current challenge at strikkere.blogspot.com - right now the theme is interior knits. Head on over to check out the other knits, and be inspired to make your own!

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 17

2011-04-29T14:39:00.000+02:00

This week I'm highlighting two male designers - Jared Flood and Stephen West. Both are extremely talented, so be sure to check out all of their designs! This is just a small selection of my favorites:

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Happy weekend!

Cute as a Button

2011-04-27T10:52:00.000+02:00

Another pair of Saartje's bootees has left the needles:

Now, all I need to do is decide on the buttons. I think I'll go with the wooden ones (even as cute as the matryoshkas are), due to gender neutrality not knowing if a boy or girl will receive these.
The booties are quick and fun to knit, and hereby recommended! (again)

Sewing in the Thirties

2011-04-26T12:43:00.000+02:00

A very kind fellow blogger has sent me this old sewing book from 1938:

Used at the 'State Industrial School for Women'..

Thorough explanations:

"Is there anything more annoying than a sewing machine that doesn't function properly?" No, indeed there isn't.

Thanks again, Thora, I'm having a feast with this one!

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 16

2011-04-22T11:00:00.019+02:00

This week I've picked some of my favorite shawls and scarves - I haven't knitted any of them myself, but I will give at least one of them a try!

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Have a happy Easter, what's left of it!

Book Review: Kæk og klassisk børnestrik

2011-04-20T14:28:00.001+02:00

I've been to the library again - this book from 2008 by the Danish designer Lene Holme Samsøe was the result:

This colorful book is bound to get your spirits up! (and I would love to own a vintage VW minibus like the one featured here..) There are designs both for boys and girls, mostly sweaters and cardigans, but also some other stuff. The patterns are well written and easy to follow, as far as I could judge without having knit any of them. But I think I will have to try some, like the cute skirt!

The book can be bought here for NOK 199.

Sweeter Than Sugar

2011-04-19T13:25:00.001+02:00

In a couple of (very interrupted) evenings I've finished these cute booties, for a friend's baby who will pop out any day now:

The pattern is Saartje's Bootees, and here are my Ravelry notes.

Old School Crochet

2011-04-18T11:00:00.000+02:00

When we visited Vesterålen earlier this spring, I was inspired to do a bit of crochet. After seeing my Grandmother's old clothes hangers:

I made a 70's version in brown and orange:

I also made some pot holders in pale blue and pink, colors that go well with the pastels in the old kitchen:

I love to crochet every now and then, and it seems it's often in spring.. How about you?

And the Winners Are...

2011-04-16T15:00:00.010+02:00

I must do this more often! It's been great fun finding both new and familiar blogs to explore. In total, 109 people participated (from Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Spain, USA, Canada..) with 196 entries. Thanks to Ms Excel and Mr Random (of course he's a guy) the winners are picked! Drumroll...

The four lucky winners are:

Likis Strikk!

Who will receive this in the mail:

Thora!

Who can wait for the postman to bring her this:

Marion!

Who won this:

and Anette!

Who can look forward to receiving this:

Congratulations to the winners!

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 15 + Giveaway Reminder

2011-04-15T10:44:00.001+02:00

It seems that babies are popping out everywhere - if you're not expecting one yourself, I'm sure you know someone who does. Here are some great baby knits:

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

And if you haven't entered my big giveaway yet, it's not too late! Just be sure to do so before midnight. Good luck everyone!

Another Bunny

2011-04-14T14:28:00.000+02:00

This poor bunny has been stowed away half finished for about a year, but now he's finally finished and ready to come out and play!

The tutorial was found at the RevoluzZza Blog, go check it out! It's really easy, but can take a bit of time if you (like me) hand sew most of it.

Gimme a hug!

Vinyl and Rice and All Things Nice

2011-04-13T14:00:00.002+02:00

This is a great Easter project you can involve the kids in (they can help out with everything but the sewing, depending on the age of course). I found the tutorial on the wonderful MADE blog. Here's what I did:

Use food coloring to color rice. I used Wilton in red and purple and the Norwegian 'konditorfarge' in yellow. (The yellow didn't work out too great, only about half of the rice took color.) Let dry overnight.

Cut out egg shapes from clear vinyl (I bought my vinyl on Ebay) and sew two and two together, leaving an opening at the bottom.

Fill with rice and sew shut. Of course, the eggs can be filled with anything. I used green mung beans for one of them:

Hang up and watch them spin in the wind!

Can Bunnies Lay Eggs?

2011-04-12T10:39:00.000+02:00

I know, according to the Easter bunny tradition the eggs should have been in a basket, but I decided on a nest instead. I'm a sucker for knitting challenges, so this is my contribution to the strikkere.blogspot.com Easter challenge.

The Ravelry details and patterns can be found here (for the bunny) and here (for the nest).

(The eggs are marzipan eggs from Anton Berg and soon there will be none left..)

Crochet Question

2011-04-11T10:20:00.000+02:00

Last spring, I had a thing for crocheting hats for the kids:

They're really cute, but I must say I was never quite happy with the visor on these. The kids wanted it to be stiffer. I used this pattern, but now I'm thinking of making one where you stiffen the visor by putting something inside, like a plastic canvas as in this knitted version. Has any of you tried this, or do you have any different patterns to recommend?

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 14

2011-04-08T11:00:00.001+02:00

It's that time again! Spring is in the air, even here up north, and I've picked out some great patterns from Ravelry for this season.

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

I wish you all a happy weekend in the sun!

Cutie Pea

2011-04-06T10:12:00.000+02:00

I found this sweet, old box for peas the other day:

It's a bit rusty, so I probably won't use it for food - but perhaps for buttons and notions? Loved the price as well! (39 NOK)

Vintage Treasures

2011-04-05T11:00:00.002+02:00

Look what I inherited from my grandmother, via my Mom (who is alive and well, by the way):

The booklet to the right is from 1943 and contains a number of cute children's patterns:

(now, who's ever heard of a dress being "ideal for babies"? It tends to end up in a big roll around the waist, doesn't it..)

The other booklet is undated, but is probably from the Fifties, containing useful tips on preparing herring, building houses and raising kids, in addition to knitting patterns:

Fantastic!

Possum Wool

2011-04-04T15:04:00.000+02:00

I got this exotic yarn in the mail today:

A blend of possum fur, merino and silk. The possum wool is supposedly one of the warmest fibres around, and the yarn is especially good for hats, mittens and scarves.

It feels very warm alright, just look at the fuzziness:

I'm looking forward to trying it out! If you would like to try it as well, this is where I got it from (I bought the 4-ply).

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 13

2011-04-01T12:32:00.001+02:00

This week, I've highlighted a very talented designer, Cecily Glowik MacDonald. I love all her designs! Visit her blog in the link above, or join the Ravelry group for her designs. And let yourself be inspired by these:

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designer. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Happy weekend!

Poor Carmen

2011-03-31T10:10:00.000+02:00

I'm sure quite a few of you remember the short story 'Carmen and Maja' by Cora Sandel (it's probably still on the Norwegian school curriculum? I don't remember which grade I was in when I read it, though. Do you?). Carmen was the man magnet and Maja the gray mouse, but I do believe Maja has had her revenge. Just look at this cool design from Figgjo, called Maja:

I only have this small cream jug, but would like to expand the collection!

(And as far as Maja's revenge goes, just check out these name statistics:

Strikketøj by Helga Isager

2011-03-30T11:00:00.002+02:00

Another trip to the library, another (short) book review. This is the first book from the young Danish designer Helga Isager, inspired by the fashion from the 20th century. There are some goodies here, no doubt:

My favorite is this pattern, with inspiration from the seventies:

For a great interpretation of this sweater, check out Merete's blog. She's an inspiration in many ways! (Especially when it comes to knitting efficiency. I'm feeling very slow in comparison..)

The book is quite small and contains a limited number of patterns, but for inspiration it serves its purpose. The book can be bought from Capris.no.

Time Long Past

2011-03-29T12:27:00.002+02:00

A few more pictures from Vesterålen, inside:

(I considered covering up this Pacific beauty a bit, but hopefully nobody will be offended.. ;)

Tune in tomorrow for a more knitting related blog post!

Read the Poem "Time Long Past" by Percy Bysshe Shelley here.

Glimpses From the Outer Side

2011-03-28T11:12:00.000+02:00

('Glimt fra yttersida' in Norwegian. Trying to be funny.)

We're back from our winter holiday, and for those of you wondering if we got caught in the storm driving to or from: No, thankfully. With the wind and all we had some slow-paced days:

More pics from this beautiful place will follow tomorrow!

Oh, and not to forget: The local yarn shop (which is online, too) has a big sale, 40% off everything:

(So much for my fourth New Year's resolution...)

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 12

2011-03-25T11:00:00.001+01:00

Spring is in the air and Easter is around the corner, so this week it's all about bunnies, eggs and ducklings:

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Absence

2011-03-23T08:23:00.000+01:00

I'm on winter holiday in Vesterålen and will not be spending a lot of time in front of the computer. But check back on Friday for my Ravelry Favorites (Easter edition)!

The Luck of the Draw (Giveaway!)

2011-03-19T11:00:00.006+01:00

Comments closed! I will announce the winners later today.

I've been fortunate enough to win several giveaways lately, so it's time to give something back. This lottery is for a total of four prizes. Each prize will consist of a mix of goodies - some fabric, some yarn, some notions, and not to forget the red egg cups..
More will probably be added as I continue my spring cleaning, but here are some tasters:

And now for The Rules (please read carefully, they are not your standard rules) :

A comment here will earn you one entry in the lottery. Don't worry if you don't have a blog, choose the 'anonym' option and leave your email address in the comments form.
In your comment, state whether you knit, crochet, sew, like retro egg cups, or all of the above!
Linking to my giveaway from your blog (using the picture above) will earn you another entry.
Writing a blog entry about my giveaway will earn you a third entry.
Adding my blog to your blogroll will earn you a fourth entry (if I'm already on your blogroll, this counts too!).
Please write how many entries you've earned in your comment.

So - a total of four entries is maximum. It's nice if you follow my blog, but I think it should be a voluntary thing, so no extra entries for followers.

The giveaway closes on April 15 and I will draw the winners the following day. The giveaway is open to everyone, no matter where in the world you live. Feel free to comment in English/Norwegian/Swedish or Danish!
Good luck!

Bloggers Day of Silence

2011-03-18T08:58:00.002+01:00

A great initiative from the US. Instead of blogging (and reading blogs) today, do something to help Japan! Clicking on the image above will take you to the donation site For Japan With Love.
Alternatively, go to the Norwegian Red Cross to donate.

(My giveaway is still on - please check back tomorrow!)

Ravelry Thursday Favorites, Week 11

2011-03-17T10:00:00.024+01:00

What - not the usual Friday Favorites?? No, because tomorrow it's time for the Big Giveaway: There will be yarn. There will be fabric. There will be egg cups. So be sure to check back tomorrow to enter the competition!
But for now, here are some of the most popular designs on Ravelry at the moment, and I can see why:

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Checking the Gauge is for Sissies

2011-03-16T11:00:00.000+01:00

These were originally meant for a 10-year-old, but what do you know - they fit my (rather large) hands! Note to self: When the pattern says to use a 2.25 mm needle, replacing it with 2.5 mm will change the size. I'm happy though, I love the color of the yarn (Wollmeise Fliederbusch) and the faux cables of the pattern:

Only one is finished ATM, but no worries, it's still too cold outside to start using fingerless mittens. They are Raveled here. A quick and easy knit!

A Stitch in Time Saves Nine

2011-03-15T12:56:00.003+01:00

With three kids in the house, there's always some clothes in need of fixing. Perhaps a sock mending mushroom will make it more fun?

The mushroom was bought here, and a tutorial (in Norwegian) on how to use it can be found here. Nøstebarn also has a cheaper mushroom for sale, but at the time I bought mine they didn't.
If you liked the proverb in the title, there's plenty more of them here.

Call Off the Search

2011-03-14T11:55:00.000+01:00

Remember I had a thing for these egg cups from Rosti?

Well, I can now officially say we have enough, after a couple of Ebay buys. (In addition to these, I have about 12 Figgjo egg cups like these in different colors, so there's no eggy shortage in this house.)

I have some leftover egg cups too, and I'm thinking of putting together a giveaway shortly. So if you like egg cups, cool fabrics and yummy yarn, watch this space the next couple of days!

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 10

2011-03-11T10:38:00.001+01:00

This week it's all about me me me. Or rather, what I would like to knit for myself.
Enjoy:

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Today

2011-03-10T10:16:00.000+01:00

..I'm knitting, not blogging. But stay tuned for the usual Ravelry Friday Favorites tomorrow!

Hats for Cuban Babies

2011-03-09T10:15:00.000+01:00

A quick project in between all of my "heavier" knitting is this:

Small cotton hats for premature babies in Cuba. Why Cuba? The answer is found in this Danish blog. A great cause, and a good way to get rid of some leftover yarn!

Book Review: Votter og Vanter

2011-03-08T10:27:00.000+01:00

I recently borrowed this book at the library, I was in a hurry and didn't browse through it first:

- "Votter og vanter" by Cathrine Glette and Kristin Holte. Had I checked it out first, it wouldn't have come home with me. No offense to the workmanship behind the designs, but they were just not my taste. At all. In fact, the mittens on the cover were the only ones I liked (but they would have been even nicer in other colors). The book describes several different techniques, some of which I definitely won't try out, but I might give the bosnian crochet ('pjoning' in Norwegian) a try.
Perhaps your taste is different from mine? Here are some peeks inside:

'Nuff said.

Now That's My Cup of Coffee

2011-03-07T10:00:00.001+01:00

I'm a tea lover who seldom makes coffee at home, but when I do, I drink it from these cups:

I have four - two of this type, and two in a different color combo. I found them some time ago at qxl.no and they're from Figgjo - in beautiful vintage condition!

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 9

2011-03-04T10:00:00.003+01:00

It's never difficult to find gorgeous patterns for your little girls, but finding cool stuff for the boys can be more of a challenge. Here are my favorites - and of course, all of these can be made for girls as well!

The images and patterns are not mine, but belong to the designers. Clicking on the images will take you to the Ravelry patterns - you will need a (free) account there to access the pages.

Have a great weekend!

Redesign

2011-03-03T10:00:00.012+01:00

The Norwegian company Nøstebarn had a competition going in February, encouraging their customers to mend and fix worn-out wool clothes. Some of the results are presented at their blog, and here are my humble efforts:

A baby jacket in wool fleece was transformed to a soaker/diaper cover longie and a hat for Junior (AKA Little Red Riding Hood).
For the longie, I used the arms of the jacket for legs, and the gusset and waist were made from the remaining fabric plus a small piece from a striped sweater. The hat/hoodie was made from the jacket's hood with a sewn-on knitted neck warmer, made of one skein Misti alpaca yarn.
This was fun and inspiring, and it definitely won't be the last time I redesign the kids' clothes!

Finished Nepal Baby Blanket

2011-03-02T10:00:00.003+01:00

My blanket is finished, and soon on its way to Bergen and then Nepal, to warm a newborn baby:

(Although I'm thinking of felting it a bit, so it gets thicker and warmer.) My Ravelry notes can be found here. To read more about the Nepal initiative (and contribute yourself), check out this previous post for links.

Knitting Stitch Library

2011-03-01T09:56:00.000+01:00

This is a great resource if you would like to try out some new stitching techniques: www.craftcookie.com
Browse around to be inspired and find stitches like these:

The majority of them are easy to accomplish, too!

Labor of Love

2011-02-28T13:57:00.003+01:00

The little man needed a warm pair of overalls for crawling on our cold floors. As much as I love knitting, there's nothing like the sewing machine when you need something to be finished quickly (although sewing isn't always as quick as you'd think, hence the title of this post. Oh well, no need to elaborate..):

Pattern from 'Børnetøj du selv kan sy', fabric (boiled wool) from Stoff & Stil. I made the one-year size with long ribbing around the feet, so I think this will fit him for a while.

Retrobaby

Last Chance

Two Way Dress Nomination

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 8

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 7

Welcome, Baby

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 6

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 5

Birthday Giveaway *Closed*

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 4

A Year in Knitting

The Joys of Blogging

Christmas Production

Purple Uppercut

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 45

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 44

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 43

Worst Blogger Award

Missing in Action

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 39

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 38

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 37

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 36

Finally Paying It Forward

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 35

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 34

Batch of Projects

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 33

Arctic Baby Gift

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 32

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 31

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 30

Knitting and Healing

From Chaos to Order

Ravelry Favorites, Week 29

Green Pickles

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 28

Revamped Resolutions

Not Exactly Grandpa's Colors

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 27

Cobblestone, My Dear

Pay It Forward

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 26

Summer Knitting Challenge

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 25

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 24

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 23

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 22

Lucky Me

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 21

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 20

Cute Mary Janes

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 19

Silky Gray Shawlette

The Knit Kit

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 18

Blast From the Past

11 Months Today

Modern Top-Down Knitting

Luxury Yarn Sale

Colorful Clockwork

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 17

Cute as a Button

Sewing in the Thirties

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 16

Book Review: Kæk og klassisk børnestrik

Sweeter Than Sugar

Old School Crochet

And the Winners Are...

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 15 + Giveaway Reminder

Another Bunny

Vinyl and Rice and All Things Nice

Can Bunnies Lay Eggs?

Crochet Question

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 14

Cutie Pea

Vintage Treasures

Possum Wool

Ravelry Friday Favorites, Week 13

Poor Carmen

Birthday Giveaway Closed