stash, knit, repeat

Hubby doesn’t have the greatest track record with respect to knitted things. Every single sweater I’ve pointed out has been dubbed “ugly”, he basically only wants knitted things out of sport-weight or lighter in charcoal or black. In other words, your typical guy. :)

Until last week, the only thing he’d ever requested was a 1×1 rib black scarf over 6 feet long–not something I’d want to repeat. Last week, though, he mentioned that his (shaven) head was getting really cold in his office and classrooms.

Pattern: Generic hat pattern, adapted for my gauge and his head.
Yarn: Ornaghi Filati Cashmerino, 1 ball charcoal and a smidge of a ball of khaki; knit on US3 needles
Time Elapsed: Not even 3 days
Thoughts: I did a tubular cast-on for the first time on this project, and like most knitters I’m a convert. It’s stretchy and hugs his head very well, and looks *fabulous*.

I like the yarn a great deal and would use it again, but like most cashmere/merino blends it pills. Combine this with DH’s habit of rubbing his head, and it’s already looking a little fuzzy!! Can anyone recommend a good cotton/elastic blend, maybe?

I guess I don’t have much to say about this project… it was so simple. Anyway, he’s thrilled with the end result and I love seeing him in my hand-knits. (FINALLY!)

I pretty well can’t wait for my dressform to arrive. (Yes, of course I ordered one about 37 seconds after writing that last post. And why yes, I do have an impatience problem. :)

I’m very, very close to dividing for the armholes and adding the bust short rows on the Shaped V-neck Cardigan. I really want the dressform around for thorough inspection when I add them, so I had to distract myself!

Hubby asked for an indoor cap to wear on his bald head a couple of weeks ago. I think this one is going to live in the sidebar for a whole day before it’s finished. :) That, uh, moodily-lit photo was taken early last night and I’m already on the decreases. The yarn is very soft and fine, and I think it will work well for him.

I also accompanied a friend to a truly fabulous yarn shop. She was going to get supplies for a class at Stitches West, I was going for moral support. Then I saw that they were one of the few lucky yarn shops to carry Blue Moon products. I say that, and not simply “Socks that Rock”, because it turns out Blue Moon does other stuff!

Peacock-blue almost-solid silk thread laceweight.

Sign.

Me.

Up.

And generous yardage, too! Plenty for a stunning masterpiece. This will have to marinate awhile, so that I can find just the right pattern. (Suggestions welcome.)

Lastly, I got to see Bea in action over the holiday break. Here, have some cute baby pictures!

Seeing one’s hand-knits being loved is one of the greatest things ever.