Lotus Knits

Bye Bye and Hello

2010-08-18T21:54:00.000-04:00

I’m stretching myself thin in the blog world. I’ve started numerous blogs to write about different aspects of my life. It’s become a little overwhelming to keep up with them and to figure out what I’m going to write for each. I’ve stared some post but I keep putting them in a draft folder and never finishing the post. I’ve been doing this blog thing for about 3-4 years now and my life has just changed so much that my original blog just didn’t fit. So I made another one. Which in the end didn’t work. So another and another…it makes no sense, just have one place. One Blog. So that’s what I’m doing. It will be about anything in my life. Baby, husband, food, hair, hobbies, etc… So here we go…Living My Life

So F-ing Excited!!!

2010-06-14T23:58:00.000-04:00

In the last year or so (come to think of it, it was around the time I found out I was pregnant) I started to really enjoy cooking. I enjoy shopping for ingredients and cooking them up with Paul as my sous chef. So what's the problem? There must be a problem. Space and Storage. Space and storage are my problems. I have very little space to prepare recipes and storing food, forget-about-it. How do you solve these problems? You get a new kitchen. Here is what I want: 1. more counter space, 2. a pantry, 3. space to get things organized (everything in it's place).

So how am I going to solve these issues...remodel the kitchen.

That's right, we are going to remodel the kitchen. I don't mean move some things around, I mean completely gutting the kitchen and starting from the ground up. I've designed the entire thing with all my wants and needs in mind.

Here is the concept view

And here is the inspiration and how the cabinets will look.

I'm keeping the overall look very simple. This way decorating can be changed whenever I want. Oh. Oh. I came up with the idea for the lighting above the sink. I'm going to do pendant light with changeable shades. I can then change the lighting with the decor.

Well, I'll keep posting with progress shots.

Make your list and check it twice: 101 in 1001

2010-06-06T22:17:00.001-04:00

Start Date: 06-06-10
End Date: 03-03-13
It is actually quite hard to come up with 101 goals to complete in 1001 days. I'm at 20is on the list. Most the goals have to do with family, fiber/yarn/knitting, and photography. I wanted to make some goals that would be challenging and some that would be fairly easy. Some that would take lots of planning and some that could be done on a moments notice. You might be wondering what this is all about. Here is an explanation. If you decide to create a list, here is list that can help brainstorm your list. The list is categorized into places to visit, financial milestones, content to consume, physical changes, new things to learn, things to create, skills to learn, risk to take, relationships, things to own, business, and pieces of paper. There are 10 available spaces for each category. It's a nice tool to help brainstorm.

So what is on my list? I'm not telling (at least not until after 03-03-10 when I've completed the list). Sorry 'bout that.

In other news. I need to learn how to use a flash. I've finally acknowledged the fact that I have little to no natural light coming into my house. So when I need to take pics of anything in my house I have to set up my lighting which can be a real pain. So I'm going to learn how to use a flash (not the on camera flash) in a way that will look more natural, cuz I do hate straight on flash. Oooh, also I've recently learned how to do the lomo effect on my pics. I love the lomo effect.

Disney Before Lomo Effect

Disney After Lomo Effect

I just really love the hyper-reality that it creates.

This is hard...

2010-06-01T00:50:00.000-04:00

See my other post on my other blog.

Designed for summer...

2010-05-19T22:41:00.000-04:00

...or better yet designed for Florida. Here is my call to all knitwear designers. Design more knitwear for summer (and Florida livin'). Now, having requested this I'm also going to attempt to design some knitwear. While knitting the Vesper pullover I came to realize some summer knitting basics. What does a summer knit need in it's design? In my opinion it's a few things. First a breathable fabric. Second the resulting garment needs to be lightweight. and Third the garment needs to be easy to wear. I've also come to realize that this will mean, again in my opinion, no yarn larger than sport or DK weight. I know, this means no quick knits.

So my first assignment (to myself) will be to study Elizabeth Zimmermann's knit designs and principles. I'm doing this because I believe that EZ is the shiz-knit of knitting. Only one problem most things she knit were suited for winter and northern climates. I'm hoping that in studying her designs I'll be able to create lightweight translations. I also hope that this will help in the future designs that I've thought up over the years but didn't really know how to create a pattern. Such us a peasant shirt that I've been mulling around in my head.

I'll keep you updated on how things are coming along.

Change of mind

2010-05-14T14:10:00.000-04:00

Yet again I'm changing my mind. I couldn't get swatch for the Petrie sweater using Hempathy yarn. So, while looking around on Ravelry I found this sweater which was close enough to gauge to work. Vesper by Heidi Kirrmaier. There seems to be a pattern here...I really like Heidi's patterns.

Like many who have made this, I'm also going to use Roko's mods.

Okay, here I go, I'm actually going to cast-on a new project which I haven't done in several months.

Oh, only issues, I didn't get exact gauge which I'm hoping will not be too much of an issues. We'll see what happens.

Not gonna work

2010-05-12T18:03:00.000-04:00

The yarn is not going to work and I don't have enough money to buy the yarn to knit it right now. But, I do however have enough yarn in my stash to knit 2 sweaters. All is not lost.

The first is this wonderful Summer Solstice sweater designed by Heidi Kirrmaier. I'm currently swatching for this one using Elesbeth Lavold Silky Wool in my fav color.

The second is Petrie a Knitty pattern by Beautia Dew. I'll be swatching that next using Elesbeth Lavold Hempathy in a navy color.

Oooh, I also have part of the yarn to knit this tank. Coral by Helga Isager. I have the Noro for the accent parts and I'm wondering if I could use the fingering yarn I just bought for the body. Only one problem. The pattern is in Danish. I also like the Olive Sweater by the same designer that is very similar.

Did someone give me crack?

2010-05-10T17:04:00.000-04:00

I can't believe that I'm going to attempt to knit a sweater on size 3 needles. I must be insane or on crack. The sweater that has captured my knitterly love?

pic taken from BMFA site

This is her. The Traveling Sweater by A. Karen Alfke available from Blue Moon Fiber Arts. The pattern uses Woobu yarn which is a 60/40 wool/bamboo blend yarn. I'm however going to be using (I hope, if I get gauge) Ella Rae's Lace Merino which I was told is a sport weight. I really hope I'm able to get gauge with it, I love the color. Anyway, I think this will be a fabulous sweater even for Florida weather. Although, if you know anything about our winter this year you know how damn cold it was. So I'm thinking that this will be a fabulous Florida sweater thin from using the sport weight yarn yet warm from the wool content of the yarn.

I've been busy...

2010-05-08T22:38:00.000-04:00

No, I haven't been knitting or dying or even crafting. I did however create something.

(crappy iphone pic)

I'm proud to introduce James David or "Nugget". He is now 3 weeks and 4 days old and keeping his mom and dad very busy. He is amazing. I have not words to describe the most wonderful thing that has every happened to me. I'm blogging about him and our adventures at Oh my god...3 hrs of sleep. I'll also be sharing advice and helpful hints there.

Well, Nugget is about to wake up and I'm off to fix a bottle.

Let's be honest shall we...

2009-12-07T18:36:00.003-05:00

Only 2 WIPs, and lots of empty project pic spots. So, what did this knitter need to do? I had to be honest with myself and frogged things that were never going to be worn or finished (such as the girly cobblestone). There are actually only two projects going right now that are being worked on, but I might be casting on another project within the week, just sayin'. That cobblestone I mentioned, the yarn has been balled and more yarn purchased. I picked up 3 blues, 3 reds, 2 purples, and a green...the cobblestone is going to be re-incarnated as a fair isle sweater. Sweet! Being inspired by the Caitlin Pullover.

Short and sweet tonight, I've got some photography and cleaning/packing to do.

Get Your Spin On!

2009-11-03T18:46:00.003-05:00

Recently I reconnected with my love for the long draw spinning technique. I’ve been using long draw from rolags to spin for my Magical Sweater and love how quickly I can fill a bobbin. This is important when you are spinning for a whole sweater. In trying to learn this technique myself I found a couple videos about preparing rolags and long draw spinning that I wanted to share with you.

Side note: If you’ve been following this blog for awhile, you might remember the rolags that I’ve been carding for the Magical Sweater. They are quite a bit larger than the ones on the video. This is because I overloaded the cards with fiber and then instead of just one carding worth of fiber, I used 2. So, here’s what I did. I loaded the cards with fiber and carded as usual, then instead of laying them on top of each other and rolling up, I stack them on top of each other and set them on a table (no roll-up). I then repeat the carding process. Then, I use both carding sessions and combine these to roll-up which makes a huge rolag that I split in half. I did this because it gave me the results I wanted, no other reason. Make sense? I’ll do a tutorial.

I’m going to start spinning for another sweater (Mondo Cable Cardi by Chic Knits) real soon and wanted to spin from roving/top instead of rolags. My plan is to use 1 ½ lbs of “Black” BFL top spun to a worsted weight, spinning from the fold. I then plan to over dye the yarn a deep red/burgundy color. I found this great video on how to spin from the fold which encompasses a long draw technique.

I hope to start this spinning project this week, since I’m almost done plying the last 2 skeins for the Magical Sweater. At least I hope it’s the last I have to spin for the Magical Sweater.

Spin Much?

2009-10-21T22:16:00.002-04:00

I have been lately. My friend is looking into buying her first spinning wheel and I've been trying to share some of my knowledge (limited as it is) with her. So I figured I would also put together a post with some of the references that I have used over the last year.

Stitch it! Podcast - Meghan share a wealth of information on spinning, some of which she picked up at SOAR last year.

Spin-off Magazine

This video about the different drive system set ups. I do not have a Schacht, but I do have a double drive wheel that I can set up in these different ways. Can't wait to try the Irish drive set up.

Sit and Spin DVD - great art yarn DVD

Spin Control book - great book with a large amount of info

...and lots of YouTube videos. That's all I can think of right now.

Look at that face

2009-09-26T21:53:00.002-04:00

If you are anything like me, don't ya just want to snuggle up with that little face? Jessica and I went over to Crystal Springs Alpacas today for the Florida Alpaca Farm Day.

Jessica got to try out her weaving skills. This was such a nice well maintained farm. I was so impressed. Best of all, they had yarn, roving and fleece for sale. Yes, of course I bought some. I picked up 6oz of black sure alpaca roving and 4oz of brown baby suri alpaca raw fleece. I'll be posting pics of the spinning progress (I've already started the black alpaca). It spins beautifully.

Taking a Break

2009-09-25T22:14:00.002-04:00

For the past 4 weeks I've been struggling with this decision. Fighting against this feeling. A feeling that something that was so important and loved has become insignificant. I'm talking about dyeing. I have to take a break from the dyeing business. I still love to dye, but the business portion has become too much for my already hectic life. The stress of finding time, space, and money has made the process as-a-hole so much less enjoyable.

Can I take time off and come back to it? I don't know.

Will I come back to it? I'm making no promises.

If and when I do come back, I want it to be enjoyable. I think I just need some time to re-organize everything. I actually said to someone "I do not have time to cook or clean or do family things because I have a business to run". Really? I got so involved in running this business that I forgot to enjoy my life. And somewhere in all the craziness, I've stopped enjoying dyeing. I love to dye, don't get me wrong, but I think I'm dyeing for all the wrong reasons.

The relief of making this decision is palpable. Because I've been dwelling on this for so long, I had no inspiration to do anything else. I've been avoiding getting online, avoiding knitting, avoiding spinning, and don't even think about stepping into the craft room. I feel unchained now. I feel like I can move my creative life in another direction.

This all came to light with a little + on a stick. The little + is the positive marker on a pregnancy test (in my case 4 pregnancy test). Paul and I have been trying for over a year to get pregnant and it finally happened. And with that + my entire view on my life has also changed. This little dyeing business has become less important. Honestly, I just want to be around friends and family and enjoy my life (which has been delayed because of the flu bug that has been circulating through the house). I don't want to be tied to the dye pots dyeing, or to the computer updating and trying to pimp my business. I want to dye when the inspiration hits and when it is suitable to my life. I want to turn my craft room back into a craft room, not the room of production that it has been. I can't even get to my sewing machine, it's surrounded by dye pans.

So how do I end a post about ending. Not sure. Just want to say that although the dyeing business has been stressful, the people I have meet have been fabulous. I truly appreciate all the wonderful support and wonderful encouragement that I have received. But don't fear, I'll still be around and still post, it might just be about more random things and more family things.

Surge Update

2009-08-30T19:05:00.003-04:00

Check out the new Surge Yarn update.

Next week...dyeing roving

socks

2009-08-22T16:19:00.004-04:00

I began the year with a little sock revolt. Why? I don’t know. I just did not want to knit socks. Yes, I started a few pairs, but I only finished 1 pair. Well apparently the void in my sock knitting has caught up with me and now all I want to do is knit socks. I’m really trying hard not to cast on every single sock in the cookie a. book Sock Innovations, I’m fascinated with sock knitting machines, and I want to order a metric butt ton of sock knitting needles. What is with the socks? I’m pretty sure this has something to do with the envy I felt for all those sock knitters who were able to attend Sock Summit. It might also have something to do with the new knitting technique that I’ve been able to learn and gradually have become comfortable with using. I’m a Flicker. Using this technique makes the knitting so much faster and smoother, for me anyway. The one this that hasn’t been part of my “I Must Knit Socks” revelation is the need to buy sock yarn. How weird.

Back to Sock Summit. How jealous am I? Wow, to have been there with all those like minded knitters and surrounded by the love of knitting socks. And all that color. And all those patterns. And knitting geniuses. And the accessories. And the colors. Speaking for sock accessories, I need some sock blockers. I think I’m going to make some using this tutorial. I’ve always thought that blocking a sock was kinda unnecessary. I mean whether you block it or not it will still stretch to fit your foot when you put it on. But I do like the look of a nicely blocked sock. So I’m going to gather up some placematts and make some sock blockers. I need several pairs as I usually wash mine and hubby’s socks all at once.

Okay, so which socks did I decide to cast on? I’m limiting myself to 2 pair at a time. First I decided on “Sam” by cookie a. The second pair will be for the hubby, just a plain ribbed sock. I haven’t knit him any socks since Christmas, I think he is due a pair. Ooh Ooh, and I’m going to try an afterthought heel. I’m very excited to try out a new technique. Maybe I’ll even try the afterthought leg pattern Houdini Socks by Cat Bordhi. This seems to be a very interesting way to knit a pair of socks. Now if I didn’t have to be at work all day maybe I could get some of this knitting done. Stupid work getting in the way of my knitting time.

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website website website...YES!

2009-08-19T18:34:00.003-04:00

I'm so excited about this. So excited to have a website just for 1,000 Petals. I never thought I would get to a point when I would have a website. happy dance happy dance

Check it out.
1000 Petals

To celebrate the launch of the new website I'm offering 10% off your entire purchase until Sunday. Oh and don't forget, I'm now offering to refund the shipping charge when you buy 3 or more items. Score!

running off to play with the new website

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Too long

2009-08-11T21:29:00.005-04:00

It’s been over a week since I last dyed a batch of yarn. I’m not counting the odd-n-ends skeins I dyed for myself. I’m so ready to get back to the dye pots. Is this an addiction?

News:

I should be receiving 10lbs of Surge yarn by next week (I hope to get it Saturday). I can’t wait to get the cones skeined up for some experimental solar dyeing.

Speaking of solar dyeing…here’s the plan. I’ll use essentially the same process for dyeing the yarn that I use now (well, wrapping it in plastic wrap may be eliminated…we’ll see), anyway, I’ll put all the skeins into a glass large mouth jar and set it in the sun. I’ve got some experimenting to do but that’s the plan as of yet. I don’t have much direct sun exposure in my yard, but I do have a spot on top of a shed. Let’s hope this works.

In other news, I had a meeting with a LYS Saturday morning and this LYS will be carrying my yarns. Yippee! I’ll let you know the store name and such once she receives some stock.

And in more news, I was contacted by an event coordinator who has requested 50-100 skeins for an event in 2010. Again, I’ll have to give more details once this has been finalized. My first reaction…silence. I just couldn’t believe that someone would like my yarns that much. It amazed and shocked me. I also had a little bit of a panic moment, which has since passed and because the event isn’t until 2010 I know this can be accomplished.

The last bit of news. 1,000 Petals has a dot com address. It’s not ready for publishing yet, but I have registered the domain name and my web designer (Color Mode Studio) is working on the site design. This is the same firm that created the 1,000 Petals logo that you can see below.

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We're going solar

2009-08-09T14:41:00.004-04:00

There are some hugenormous things in the works and I have to have more space to dye. So, ever since hearing Miss. Violet talk about using a solar oven to heat set her yarns, I've been contemplating this also. Now, one problem...I live under about 12 large oak trees. There's not much sun that penetrates through to the ground at my house. I'm not going to get rid of the trees, I love my trees. So, we've got some planning and building to do to get around this problem. I guess it's a pretty big problem, solar oven with no sun. Hmmm...

Edited to add a link. And I've figured it out...remember Sun Tea?
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Growth is good, and stuff

2009-08-04T19:57:00.004-04:00

I live 2 lives. One is lived in a very straight back insurance world. The other is lived in a free-formed fiber world. And to my surprise and delight, my fiber world has been growing.

As some of you might have noticed, the beginning of this year brought from me a huge dedication to the growth of 1,000 Petals. All my focus was to be directed to this fiber world. I’ve devoted many hours to this and it has started to pay off. It’s August now. 7 months of focus. 7 months of tears, sweat, and enjoyment. Yes, I do enjoy this fiber world very much. Where’s the dilemma? Okay “dilemma” is not the word I want to use. Where’s the challenge? The challenge is to find balance. Balancing both worlds to work for me. There has to be a balance. Has to be.

I’m going to put myself on a schedule and allow for “time off”. I do not want to get burned out. I need to spend time with my family, fur babies, and friends. And I do mean “need”. This time is to recharge my creative and emotional energy. We all should have some recharge time.

This all became very clear to me in the last 3 weeks. It started with getting the yarns dyed for Sock Summit. I had a week to get the coned yarn skeined, dyed, and shipped. Then, the following week, I had to repeat this process and add photography and uploading yarns to etsy for the launch of a new ad on Ravelry. I know it doesn’t seem like a lot, but when you work full time, this process became hairy. This week, I’m on vacation from dyeing. But, even though I’m on vacation from dyeing doesn’t mean that I’m on vacation from creative energy. This never stops. Being away from the dye pots has given me such breathing time and the ideas are flowing. Love this!

Surge Update

2009-08-01T10:40:00.002-04:00

Boy o' boy have I been busy. This is by far my favorite yarn base. It's the new Surge Yarn base, same great merino but with a tighter twist. Fabulous!

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FO - Plain Jane Socks

2009-07-30T17:19:00.004-04:00

WhooHoo! One project from the UFOs done. To be fair, I was really close to being finished.

Pattern: Plain Knit Sock
Yarn: My Own (ravelry link)- 3ply Merino Superwash. This is actually the old Surge base. The new Surge base is super duper amazing. Just sayin'.

Update on the other UFOs: The only other UFO that I'm knitting on currently is the Venezia Lady or better known as the February Lady Sweater I've almost finished the first sleeve. Sweet!

UFOs

2009-07-26T17:01:00.003-04:00

Yep, I sure do have a lot of UFOs.

So, I'm making this commitment for everyone to see. I will NOT cast on anything else until my UFOs are either finished or frogged. Which means I have to go through my projects and figure out which projects I really want to finish and which ones I will be frogging.

Here's what will be finished:
1. Plain Jane Socks
2. Spring Weaver Shawl - this will be finished, but I think I'm going to frog it and re-start. I'll explain in another post.
3. Magical Sweater
4. Venezia Lady Sweater
7. Noro Afghan
8. Only in Bright Light sweater

Here's what will be frogged:
5. pease for me
6. Simple pullover

Well, I have 6 projects to finish before casting on another. At least some of these are pretty close to being finished.

Hi! I've been busy

2009-07-23T18:47:00.004-04:00

I know. I know. I never call.

ahem

Well, I've been super busy. What am I so busy doing? Dyeing. I just did a small Fraternal Twins Roving update on etsy. But most of my time has been spent dyeing yarn for Sock Summit. I've got 10 skeins done and going to do 3 skeins tonight. I wanted to get more finished in time to ship to Pam. But, If something could go wrong it did. First my yarn meter stopped working. It was skipping yards (feet actually) of yarn which meant that my skein was 600ish yards, instead of 420. I had to drive to Orlando to pick up another (bought 2, just in case). So, I then tried to re-wind this one and because the tension was different pulling it off the swift I had a light skein. Oh, it first started with the new skein winder, which I LOVE, but the arms were too long which cause the skein to be too big for a yarn swift. This could be re-skeined, but, my swift is not big enough. Both these disasters have been corrected and things are back to normal, but I'm about 2 days behind.

Oh, and the fun doesn't stop after these skeins are dyed. I then will be scrambling to dye up the rest of the yarn for an etsy update before the feature yarn ad on Ravelry.

With all this going on, I will admit that all this crazy makes me happy. I've been super pleased with the Fraternal Twins Roving and these new skeins of yarn dyed in semi-solids. I can't stop looking at them. I love yarn.

The Big Reveal - Fraternal Twins Roving

2009-07-12T16:01:00.008-04:00

Rebecca & Regina

Fraternal Twins Roving – The Same but Different

Brad & Braden

As requested 1,000 Petals is now offering 8ounces of roving, kinda.

Fraternal Twins Rovings are divided into 4oz each. Each is dyed using the same exact dye solution, but the prep of the fiber causes the dye to absorb at different rates. See what I mean, the same but different.

Imagine the possibilities. Spin each as a single and then ply together. Or you could spin alternating sections of each twin. Or you could spin and ply each twin in your preferred way and then when knitting, knit each on alternate rows. This would create a stripy effect, but using the same colors.

Liza & Lily

By-the-way, I would love to see your finished yarns.

Update will begin at 8pm Eastern.

hint hint

2009-07-11T19:26:00.000-04:00

Sunday night I will be revealing my latest roving creations. I will give you one hint. They are the same, but different. That's all you get for now. This latest creation is a way for me to fulfill the request for 8oz of fiber, but not. ahem. I know it makes no sense, but it will on Sunday. Hehehe. I have a secret.

Reminders and Updates:

If you haven't seen it yet I did start a Ravelry Group. There's not much activity right now (which is my fault), but give it some time and it will be buzzing.

Also I wanted to remind everyone that is participating in the Tour de Fleece to stop by my store. If you purchase roving from now until the tour ends and enter the code "spin it up" you will receive a 10% discount.

Next update will be Monday night. This update will include the secret rovings.

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in the sea there is a fish

2009-07-09T17:35:00.001-04:00

First skein spun for Tour de Fleece.
My own Water Nymph Roving
Colorway: in the sea there is a fish
Yardage: about 800
1 ply lace weight

Tour de Fleece has been so much fun.

Etsy Shop Luv - 3GWOODWORKS

2009-07-06T20:08:00.001-04:00

Spindles? Did someone say spindles? Do you want (I mean need) a new spindle? Check out 3GWOODWORKS. Did you look? They are amazing! They are creating spindles using exotic woods like Macadamia Nut and Manzanita Burl. Did you look yet?

How fabulous would it be to spin with one of these during the Tour de Fleece. Imagine the compliments. Imagine the wonderfully spun yarns. Stop imagining and go shop for one yourself.

The Organization Continues

2009-07-04T13:55:00.001-04:00

Tweak. I like to tweak things on occasion. I like to figure out the more efficient way to do things. Work smart, not hard. Right? So in accordance with this, I’ve simplified my decision making. This is purely a decision I had to make because I'm so tempted buy all the fabulous fiber blends available. What is it? Well, I’ve decided to narrow my fiber blend selection to 4 fiber blends with the occasional special listings I just have to try out. Ahem. I know this seems like a no brainer but I tend to over analyze everything. I want to offer fiber blends that fiber people will enjoy and appreciate. So here’s what 1,000 Petals is going to carry on a regular basis (at least as long as my supplier keeps them in-stock).

1. Allure Roving and Lace (merino/silk blend) this was an easy choice.

2. Surge Roving and Yarn (superwash Merino) my fav yarn. New base yarn, still the wonderful superwash merino but with a tighter twist.

3. Soothe Roving and Yarn (superwash BFL) who doesn’t love BFL.

4. Rainy Day Roving and Yarn (superwash Merino/Nylon) my fav roving.

Of course I had to keep my favs.

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Happy 4th

2009-07-02T22:12:00.004-04:00

Independence Day SALE!!!
10% OFF Entire Stock
Sale ends July 5th. Have fun shopping.

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News

2009-07-01T21:54:00.002-04:00

I’ve got some.

So the other night I was drifting off to sleep and contemplating how I would manage dyeing larger quantities, such as dyeing 8 ounces of roving instead of 4 ounces. Currently I’m only able to fit 4oz of roving in my dye pans at one time without loosing dye saturation. Hmmm. Bigger pans? I have yet to find bigger pans that I can afford. Then it came to me. But I can’t tell you yet. Sorry. I’m still working out the details but I think it will be super fun and open up a new world of creativity for the spinners.

Second bit of news, a newsletter. I’m currently looking into starting up a newsletter. I’ve found a provider to use for this and I’m just working out details, such as design and content. Some things that might be included in a newsletter are: news (of course), shop updates (you’ll be the first to know), patterns, and discount codes. This design aspect of business is a fav of mine, sometimes hard, but always enjoyable.

In dyeing news, semisolid. With the release of Cookie A’s book Sock Innovation and with all the wonderfully detailed sock patterns available I decided it was time to give a little love to semisolid dyeing. This is not to say that I will change my dye process. You’ll still get the speckly, splotchy, and mosaic effect but instead of using 5 or more colors, I’ll use 2. Only 2.

Oh, more news. I’m working with a graphic designer/photographer who is helping me create a logo. This kinda goes back to the newsletter; I wanted a logo that would be recognizably mine. I’ve got lots of ideas but needed someone to help me tame them all into submission. This is an exciting prospect. 1,000 Petals will have an official logo, not just something I whipped up in Photoshop.

And the last bit of news. Not really news but brainstorming. I’m considering starting a fiber or yarn club. This is still in the “thinking about” stage. Deciding what type, how much, how many, theme… lots to think about and ponder.

So there you have it. All the mingled thoughts that penetrate my gray matter exposed to the world.

Etsy Luv - Into The Whirled

2009-06-29T18:23:00.006-04:00

This is Into the Whirled. This is some amazing fiber. This is a must see and must have. I had to have some too, so don't think you are the only one. Into the Whirled is an amazing etsy shop with so many batts and rovings to choose from and all your colorways are just fabulous. And the Chris is so incredibly easy to do business with. You will NOT be disappointed.

Here's a pic of the batt I was able to acquire. It is so wonderfully soft and squishy and hugenormous (so not a word, but I didn't care). I plan to spin this up for the Tour de Fleece.

Go check out her shop and grab up your own batt or roving so you too can experience her wonderful creations.

Etsy Update

2009-06-27T12:49:00.003-04:00

Tantalize Yarn Update. I totally love the base yarn for Tantalize. It's a BFL and nylon blend that accepts the dye wonderfully. Check them out.

OVERSTOCK SALE - 30% OFF

2009-06-24T18:32:00.004-04:00

That's right I'm actually having a sale on selected items. This is the first sale I've ever had over at the shop so stop by and check it out.

1,000 Petals

Etsy Shop Luv

2009-06-22T19:58:00.001-04:00

Spun Right Round, yes I did. I spun right around and made sure I took a closer look at this shop. So much to luv. So much to buy. Lets see, she carries handspun, fiber batts, a fiber club, and mystery batts. Just amazing stuff. She even offers the option to spin your batt for you. And I'll admit it, I already bought one. I couldn't help myself. So you'll be seeing her stuff again on this blog after I start spinning it up for the Tour de Fleece. Can't wait to get my hands on the lovely squishy batt. Go shop and get your hands on one also.

Phat Fiber Rocks!

2009-06-20T23:23:00.006-04:00

I've been waiting for this day. I received the June Phat Fiber box. I'm now going to take all these fibers and card them up into rolags and corespin them. This should be some crazy fabulous yarn.

April Box

May Box

June Box

Tour de Fleece - should I?

2009-06-16T17:57:00.005-04:00

Ahem. Should I join? Should I commit? Oh man, this really shouldn’t be as stressful as I’m making it for myself. It just looks like so much fun, and I really do love to spin. What could it hurt?

**sigh**

Here we go…I’m in. I’m spinning for the Tour de Fleece. Commitment made. You wanna spin too? Here are the links. Ravelry group and Flickr group.

For my fellow tour spinners, up until the last day of the tour (July 26th), if you purchase spinning materials from my shop and enter the code: “spin it up” you will receive 10% off your purchase price.

Here come the lists, I have a thing for lists. Lists allow me to clear my brain of all the clutter. So I make lists. Just sayin’.

The guidelines:
see them on the Ravelry group

Preparation (for myself):
1. Free the bobbins. This will give me 7 bobbins to rotate through. Also need to fix one of my bobbins, I accidentally dropped it and part of the wood split a wee bit. Just need some wood glue to fix it, no biggy.
2. Post a note on the etsy shop to let everyone know that I will not be dyeing for these 2 weeks. I’ll continue to ship any orders received, but no new listing will be posted.
3. Gather up all the materials, give Stella (the wheel) a cleaning and good oiling, card up the sari silk with the silk noil, and set up a comfy spinning area.

Commitment to spin:
1. Hand carded silk/silk noil rolages – I’ll mix up some sari silk threads and black merino roving and spin from this. I’m considering this my challenging project.
2. Core spin Batt from Spun Right Round – pics to come soon. I’m going to core spin this batt. With the skills I learned from the Sit and Spin DVD I should be able to tackle core spinning again with more success than the first time I tried. I just don’t want to screw up a lovely batt.
3. Handdyed nymph roving – I’ll dye this colorway for myself. Not sure of the colors, but this merino/seacell roving is amazing I just can’t resist the opportunity to spin some up for myself.

Etsy Luv

2009-06-14T22:58:00.004-04:00

I'm showing Luv today to the LHogan etsy shop. As you can see by this fabulous batt this shop carries wonderful fibers. Not only batts but handspun and some handdyed yarns. And there's also items that are currently on sale. wonderful color + sale + fabulous fibers = Luv! Go see for yourself and shop while your there.

Etsy Shop Luv

2009-06-14T22:48:00.002-04:00

Here's the thing, every time I make a sale from my etsy shop I feel so grateful. I also feel unworthy, humbled, and honored. So, I wanted to make sure I shared the luv to other etsy shops. I've been thinking of doing a post on a weekly basis to highlight etsy shops for a long time. So every Monday check this blog for some wonderful etsy shops.

Another Etsy Update...seriously!

2009-06-11T19:13:00.003-04:00

This is a BFL 4-ply fingering weight yarn that I will only be able to offer occasionally. So snap it up while you can.

Etsy Update

2009-06-09T22:37:00.003-04:00

Etsy updated with Allure roving a merino/silk blend. It's super nice. The merino gives the this roving nice and fluffy

What's to come?

2009-06-08T00:28:00.002-04:00

Well this week will be full of busy. This past week brought some unexpected time off. So this coming week will bring at least one shop update, lots of dyeing and lots of spinning. I have some new base yarn to try out. Some merino/silk roving that I dyed up a few weeks ago to list in the shop. Some more merino/seacell roving to dye. And I want to spin up some roving from expired listings that I'll then re-list in the shop. I started this expired listing spinning tonight. I'm spinning some merino/tencel that is super soft and very easy to draft. I forgot how much I really like merino/tencel. I might also pull a couple of current listing to spin up for future re-listing. I'm not going to lie, I'm really considering pulling a merino/seacell listing, it's so soft and fluffy and really really hard to resist. If I don't pull a current listing, I might just just dye up some for myself.

On a personal note: I wanted to take a moment and thank everyone for there support and well wishes over the past week. Paul is doing much better and getting better every day. He'll go back to the doctor tomorrow and really hopes to get release to drive and released to do more activities. I must admit, I've had several surgeries in my life, but didn't realize how serious an appendectomy could be. I guess it just never dawned on me the amount of infection your body has to fight. I know better now.

get back to the normal

2009-06-03T20:43:00.002-04:00

"It's probably just a stomach virus or food poisoning. You just have to wait it out."

Ummm. WRONG!!!

"Mr. Husband, you are going to have your appendix out...tomorrow" He had the appendectomy and now is recovering slowly but steadily.

Is this explanation enough for why I've been absent lately? So I will not ask forgiveness for my absence, and I might take a while in getting back normalcy. But I'll get there.

am i a photographer yet?

2009-05-28T20:17:00.004-04:00

Decided to try out the "shoot first. ask questions later." approach to photography. I feel like I got a few good shots. I had to turn every shot to B&W simply because of the horrid lighting in the studio. To the naked eye it looks great, but as recorded by the camera, not so good. I'm really trying to find a new freedom in my photography. Let's face it, we no longer have to concern ourselves with how many frames we have on a roll of film. 24. 36. It's now a matter of 1g, 2g and more of memory. I can take as many pics as I want and if I get a few good pics, bonus. Otherwise if I don't get any good shots, I still have a great time.

So here's the question. When can you I call myself a photographer? I can pick up 2 pointy sticks some string, cast-on a few stitches, knit few stitches and call myself a knitter. So...when? I've developed my own film (many times), printed my own photos (many times), and had a darkroom at one point. Photographer yet?

About these pics

top: Gaylin

bottom: Paul (foreground) and Jim (background)

This was band practice last night. You can check out the rest of the pics on my flickr page.

You spin me right round baby

2009-05-25T03:15:00.006-04:00

Handspun yarns. What can I say except that handspun yarns totally excite me. I mean like really excite me. Especially since casting on for what I'm calling the Spring Weaver Shawl. It doesn't hurt that this fiber from BMFA is simply fantastic. The depth that handspun creates is so stunning. And I'm not a perfect spinner. My finished yarns are by no means balance and even, but that's okay too. It's another reason I adore handspun so much. And really you can start handspinning with minimum funds. My first spindle was made by my husband for under $5. Roving prices can very but I would say average is about $15. Twenty bucks and you are ready to spin. Hours of enjoyment for $20. Not only do you have the spinning that will be so satisfying, you then turn around and knit or crochet with your handspun. More hours of enjoyment for $20. Now granted I did spin this on my wheel, but that doesn't negate the fact that it could have been spun with a spindle.

Here is a list of my fav flickr groups that might inspire you to start spinning, and they may inspire you even if you currently spin. This list is a mix of spindle and wheel spun.

Bobbin Porn?

from fiber to yarn

Handspun
Handspun Mosaics
handspun, handdyed, handmade
Spindle Shots

Hope these groups help to get you excited about handspinning.

weee! a full bobbin

2009-05-24T12:37:00.004-04:00

Wonderful Chapman Springs. Yum! Yes, I have a little obsession with this colorway, it is my fav from BMFA. Since the first bobbin is plied and has now has the twist set I will be knitting this Weaver's Wool Mini Shawl Ravelry Link)with the stitch pattern from this Textured Shawl Recipe. I think it will be freaking awesome.

Etsy Update

2009-05-21T16:15:00.003-04:00

Tantalize Yarn update. This is a wonderful BFL/Nylon blend with deeply saturated colors. You'll be sure to love it as much as I do.

second

2009-05-21T00:57:00.003-04:00

The 2nd bobbin of the Chapman Springs BMFA Sheep to Shoe Kit is done. I'm currently plying them together and trying to ply them pretty tightly. This is hard for me because I'm afraid they are going to be too tight and not have a good balance. We'll see what happens.

Chapman Springs

2009-04-25T22:27:00.004-04:00

Started spinning this Chapman Springs colorway from BMFA. This is by far my favorite colorway. I was going to try for a 2ply worsted, but I think the fiber has other ideas. I think it's going to end up being closer to a fingering weight.

Now, here's were I talk about how I will start a project, just to try out something new. I've read a few different places about Fractal spinning. I don't know if this is the correct term. I'm pretty sure that's what it's being called. Basically you split your roving in half. You then spin one half as is. The second half is split into thirds. Apparently it I will have 1 ply that has long color areas and a 1 ply that has short color areas. I thought this sounded pretty darn cool. So, we'll see what happens.

Needing Light

2009-04-23T23:13:00.002-04:00

I’ve said it before. I don’t feel very proficient with my photography skills. I used to. I even had a Dark Room. Back in the days before digital, if that tells you anything. As a matter of fact, digital photography was in its infancy (for the average consumer/photographer) and I was of the opinion that digital photography would never prevail over traditional photography. How wrong I was. Anyway, I felt entirely in tune with my medium.

Fast forward 10 years. Oddly enough, knitting and dyeing yarn brought a desire for photography back into my life. I wanted to document my knitting progress. I needed to photography products for sale. And the urge for creative expression through photography has reemerged. I’ve been talking about this a lot with some friends, who concur that my current feeling of inadequacy is due to fear.

Why is fear a re-occurring theme in my creative life? They are totally right of course. Close friends usually are right when it comes to things you don’t want to admit about yourself.

So, how to overcome this fear? How do I move past this feeling of inadequacy? I just have to get out and shoot. And I’m starting today. I will start to carry my camera with me at all times. This might be a little difficult, as it is a larger camera. I’ll shoot anything I get impaired to shoot. Maybe I should say “photograph” not “shoot”. That just sounds horrible. Although it is a proper term.

I’m feeling incredibly energized about this. Very excited, and of course scared, but ready. Tonight I’m meeting a friend who is going to model for me so I can get some shots of sock knitting. And this weekend I’m going to build a prop area. This will be a place to setup and photography my yarns and rovings. I have an idea for the type of standard images I want to have for displaying these items. I’ll also be going out this weekend on a photo mission. I don’t know where or what I’ll take photos of, but I will find something.

Shop Update

2009-04-22T21:12:00.002-04:00

Go Shopping Here!

Changes...they are coming

2009-04-20T19:49:00.003-04:00

You can blame this ebook.

In the meantime I've been making progress on the Magical Sweater. I'm done with the ribbing and I'm now figuring out where to place the cables.

Magical Sweater - Part 2

2009-04-17T10:54:00.003-04:00

Decisions. Decisions. As you can see I've plied the first bobbin. Actually, since then I've completed 2 bobbins, and set the ply and knit a swatch. So everything is ready to start knitting.

I have made a couple of decisions. I've decided to knit completely in the round and then steek the center front and arm holes. I've also decided to knit the portion in between the cables in garter stitch. So, now the math. I so hate math.

And, I just made my first mistake in the calculation. At least I found it before casting on.

Etsy Update

2009-04-16T00:30:00.003-04:00

check out the updated shop

Woot

2009-04-14T21:53:00.004-04:00

This is the yarn that I dyed in the tutorial. I've decided to knit it up into some Herringbone socks. One change, I'm going to knit toe-up. No biggie to change. I cast on last night and so far I like it alot. A little shameless self promotions.

2009-04-11T21:15:00.002-04:00

What are my goals, as they relate to 1,000 Petals?

I've been thinking about this question. I've run through all the scenarios. I've contemplated the pros and cons. I think I have formulated a clear idea of my goals.

It's nice to have an end goal in mind. I didn't when I started, but things in my personal life and business life have changed over the past 6 months to a year and now things are clearer. It's very nice actually. Kinda calming. There is goal so when things go a little out of focus on the way, the end is clear. I'm not sure I want to share it here. At this point I'm keeping it private. Probably due to the fear of failure. I have to start thinking more with the business/analitical portion of my brain instead of the artsy fartsy, but that is okay, I'll still have the dyeing part that will allow space for my creative spirit to thrive.

The hardest part is finding a starting point. I love to make list. What do I put on the list? For our big projects at my "real job" we make task list. We name the task, assign the responsibility, assign due dates, and add coments along the way. I need to do one of these, but what will I put on it? What are my task? What is my due date? Responsbility will be assigned to me, thats not hard to figure out. I think I'll make one on Excel, and see if I find inspiration to fill it in. Hey, thats kinda like a first step. Could I put creating a spreedsheet on the spreadsheet? At least then I could fill in a completion date, right?

UPDATE: Task List created. Started adding task. It's not as hard as I thought. Just started brainstorming.

Sprinkle Dyeing - a tutorial - Part 3

2009-04-01T18:59:00.002-04:00

Step 5 - the wrap and dunk: The yarn is folded up into the saran wrap and placed into another pan. Once this pan has several little yarn packs I fill with water and slide in oven. I then cook this on the "warm" setting for 1 1/2 hours. I don't know what temp this is, it just says "warm". I think it's about 150 degrees.

Step 6 - the rinse and spin: Once the dye is set with heat the packs are allowed to cool. I then unwrap and rinse each skein, rinsing any remaining dye out. The skeins are then put back into the washing machine to spin out excess water. Then hang to dry.

So there you have it... "Sprinkle Dye" Hope this is helpful and inspirational. If you try this and would like to share or have questions, leave me a comment, send me an email (namastejulie@yahoo.com), or direct me to your photo sharing page (I use flickr).

I use this technique for dyeing yarn. I've tried it with roving but didn't like the results, so my rovings are handpainted in the usual way. Also, the "sprinkle" effect will differ with the amount of water you add before adding the dye. The more you wet the yarn the more it will blend.

Sprinkle Dyeing - a tutorial - Part 2

2009-04-01T18:57:00.003-04:00

Step 3 - the sprinkle: Using a Popsicle stick to tap the side of the cup, I randomly sprinkle the dye over the yarn. Some spots get more, some less. Some colors overlap, so do not. This is when you let your creativity run wild. This is when the unexpected happens. This is just the beginning of fun. You can even do a little dance at this point. I do.

Step 4 - the blend: Again with hot water, I spray the yarn and cover with water. I also add more vinegar. This will allow the dye to run and blend even more. But, some spots stay the original color too. Watch and enjoy. After the desired blending effect is achieved I remove the yarn from the pan of water, ring it out a little, and lay it out on some saran wrap.

Part 3...I'll show the finished product.

Sprinkle Dyeing - a tutorial - Part 1

2009-04-01T18:26:00.006-04:00

I'll call this Sprinkle Dyeing. I consider it a hybrid technique because of the aspects of hand painting and kettle dyeing. This is a technique I developed through trial and error. There may be a different or many different ways to create this same effect, but this is my way. I'm breaking this down into 3 parts to make posting easier on my side. I might (not promising) try to put this into a pdf. format for download.

Supplies:

Dye pan (I use a large aluminum roasting pan) EDIT: it's a roasting pan...I don't know if it's aluminum

vinegar

saran wrap

glove and mask (you will see that I don't use these)

undyed yarn (I'm using a superwash yarn)

Step 1 - the presoak and prep of yarn: I first soak yarn in a water/vinegar solution for 1-2 hours. I then place these skeins into my washing machine and set to spin cycle removing alot of excess water. One skein is placed into a roasting pan and any other skeins are set aside. I then randomly spray the skein with hot water. This is so that part of the skein is really wet and part is just a little damp.

Step 2 - the dye prep: Depending on how many dyes I'm using (which ranges from 5 to 20 colors for one skein) I set up wee little plastic cups and scoop out the dry dye crystals. Just a little in each cup.

up next...Part 2

Turn back now

2009-03-25T21:23:00.003-04:00

What is up with this proprietary shit? I'm talking about a the general closed lip nature of dyers. I've seen on a few occasion when someone will be real chatty but as soon as a question of dye technique comes up. Closed lips. Where did you go? Why aren't you answering the question? I was reading a board on Ravelry which went a little something like this (paraphrased of course).

Q: How do you speckle dye yarn?

A: (from a dyer) What is that?

Q: Yes I do. Your (the answering dyer) dye is the look I want. Here is a link to some of your yarn that has the look I'm looking to create.

A:

No answer. Dyers then started discussing this. But nobody fessed up. Not even the dyers who know how to do this. Why is this? Why are we as a fiber community willing to share all kinds of info about our personal lives, but not this. Trade secrets? Seriously? At the time I was also trying to create a speckle type of dye job, more like the Araucania brand look but it was similar to this dyers look. I eventual figured out on my own but only after a long year of money spent and time wasted. Well, not wasted, I enjoy any time I get to spend dyeing. And frankly I'm happy with the results I have been able to achieve. But, some people don't have the money or time to be able to go through a year of trying things out.

Here's my thoughts on this matter in a nutshell. It's a large nut. A simple google search will results in a load of tutorials on how to handpaint yarn in the segmented colorways. You know the one when you lay out your yarn on some plastic wrap and color different sections. And what did that hurt? Now we as knitters have so many choices for really lovely handpainted yarns from indie dyers all over the world. And I'm sure that some of the really big indie dyers started out by buying an extra PAAS Easter Egg dye kit. Vinegar. Painting all those pastel colors over a skein of KnitPicks Bare fingering weight yarn. I actually used Wilton food coloring and the Bare yarn. You get the picture. And how about those who started with the large pot on the stove and just threw cation to the wind. Dumping in those food colors all willy nilly. Has it really hurt? Really? I think it helps to have so many with dye knowledge. It opens more resources. It opens more opportunities. Look at the Phat Fiber Sampler box. Where would this be if it were not for so many indie dyers (and other fiber related things)?

My pledge is two fold. First, my next post will be the tutorial on my dye process. Second, I'm going to start to review and post about things I've bought from indies. These will not only include yarn/fiber but also soap, jewelry, and more. Whatever I buy from etsy will get a review and link to the etsy store.

We have to support each other. I'm just not digging on this "it's mine" attitude.

much spinning inspiration

2009-03-21T03:29:00.003-04:00

I'm pretty sure my head is going to explode with all the art yarn ideas I just rec'd from the DVD Sit and Spin. It's 3:31am. Yes, 3 in the morning and I just finished watching. Um...I Luv this DVD...seriously. First because of the great technical info. Second because of the metric butt tone of inspiration. Check out this trailer. If you want to learn to spin art yarns...buy it, buy it now.

You can't imagine how much I want a drum carder just for spinning art yarns now. I did buy hand cards and a load of different fibers for carding. I'll post when I get them in. And you will be seeing plenty of pics in upcoming post.

Oh...wanted to update you on the progress of the Magical Sweater. Spinning has been put on hold until I receive the carders. I've decided to card the 3 colors together and then spin. I want a more heathered look than I'm getting from the current technique. Course now I have an entire bobbin of the brown/turquoise single and a partial of the natural. Luckily I have plenty of this fiber. And, I can maybe use the single in art yarn. Just say'n.

I was thinking...

2009-03-18T19:01:00.003-04:00

It might be time to order some proper yarn/fiber labels. I have some questions before I do. How do I label each for the different yarn/fibers? For example, If I have different yarn/fiber types, I would need different labels. But labels can get expensive. That's why I've been doing them myself, I could just print out the amount needed at the time with the correct information. What type of graphics should I use? These will probably have to last a while so I want to be absolutely happy with them. Crap...I hate not being able to make up my mind. Oh and don't forget. What size would I order?

Year of the Garment

2009-03-15T12:01:00.004-04:00

magical sweater notes

I'm so into making sweaters. I've started 2 sweaters so far. The February Lady Sweater and my own Magical Sweater. The Magical Sweater is still in the planning and spinning stages. I figured out the stitch patterns I'm going to use and I've created a schematic (not shown). Above you can see the general notes on how I want to construct the sweater. It will be knit in pieces (fronts and back first) then I plan to seem the sides and top. From there I will pick up stitches and knit the sleeves down from the body. I'll then add the front/neck ribbing and pockets. Good plan right? I've finished the first bobbin of brown and turquoise. I'll next spin the bobbin of natural. Then brown and turquoise. Then natural. You get the idea. I just want to break up spinning the natural since this might bore me. One concern...after dyeing the brown and turquoise, it's feeling a little rougher than the natural. I'm hoping that after plying and bathing in conditioner it will soften up.

Magical Sweater - Part 1

2009-03-10T00:31:00.004-04:00

So here we go. The dyed and natural roving. This roving has a fairly long staple length. Had to get used to that. Spun up some samples of 4 combos.

1. Turquoise single. Natural and brown spun together, then plied with turquoise single.

2. Natural single. Brown and turquoise spun together, then plied with natural.

3. Brown single. Natural and turquoise spun together, then plied with brown.

4. Singles of each, then 3 plied.

I'm going with door number 2.

little about things

2009-03-07T14:43:00.003-05:00

I have this idea. Not an original, but an idea. I going to dye, spin, and knit a big comfy sweater. Why is this interesting enough to post about? Well, I've not done this before. Here's what I'm thinking. The roving: 1/2 lb brown, 1/2 lb natural, and 1/2 pound turquoise. From here I don't know if I'm going to spin the turquoise and natural together and then spin that with the brown. Or if I'm going to spin each single and then do a 3 ply. I hope to get a worsted weight. I'm going to do small sample of each to swatch and see. Once the spinning is done then I hope to do a sweater like this. It has some sort of cable and bramble type pattern. Only on the front, which will make the project quicker. It should be simple to design, drop shoulders so no sleeve shaping.

Phabulous Idea

2009-03-03T19:02:00.002-05:00

Have you heard about the Phat Fiber Sampler Box? Go look now! Its full of samples of indie dyers, spinners, patterns, and fibery goodness. You can buy a box here. And...guess who will have a box in the April sampler box. Yay!

Cat Bordhi is my hero

2009-02-22T21:46:00.003-05:00

I've been wanting to knit a design by Yarnissima. So I choose "brainless". Now, the hard part. Judy's Magic Cast On. EEEKKK! Cat Borhdi to the rescue with this wonderful video. YAY!

Thank you Cat, you are wonderful!

Finally

2009-02-11T19:38:00.001-05:00

I think I got it. I think I got my technique for dyeing. Last year at a LYS I found a skein of Araucania sock yarn. Woah! I fell in LUV. I love the marbleized look to the yarn. Not that I don't love the stripy type yarn, but this I LUV. So at the time I set out to figure out how to recreate that myself. I first looked for tutorials but was only able to find the stripy or color block type colorways. So I set out to experiment with how I thought this would be created. After a couple of tries I gave up. I just wasn't getting it. The results were not bad, but it was not the look I wanted. And the process that got me the closest to the look I was going for took 4EVER. So I stopped trying and went on to dyeing roving. I truly enjoy dyeing roving but that marbled effect was looming over my head. I had to figure this out. Well, last week I was playing with using dry dye crystals. And through a process of trial and error I have found it. I found a way to recreate the look I LUV. It may not be how others do it and it may not be how Araucania does it. And my yarn doesn't look exactly like their yarn, but I'm in LUV with the results. Watching the colors blend and meld to become something you didn't expect it amazing to me. The simple things...you know. And the process didn't take near as long as the original tries. It took a year of brainstorming and contemplating to finally get what I wanted.

Can I have some wool?

2009-02-08T19:54:00.002-05:00

Yes, yes you can.
So I've been dyeing the past 2 days. Well, as much as I can. Soon to be in the store: Merino/Silk laceweight, merino roving and yarn, BFL/Nylon yarn, Merino/Nylon yarn, and BLF yarn.

I was laughing so hard...

2009-02-06T23:13:00.002-05:00

...I snorted

ARG!!!

2009-02-03T00:38:00.002-05:00

I am so frustrated with myself. I just keep casting things on. What have I cast on in the past month? a sweater. a sock. a shawl. What have I finished? Um...nothing. Not a thing! Not a freaking thing! So what did I do tonight? Printed out 2 more patterns that I want to knit. First, the Just Enough Ruffles. I've had this thing for ruffles lately. And second, the Crofter's Cowl. Just cuz I thought it was really cute.

I will have to say as a postive. I've actually been working on the lonely clapotis that was started in...well...June. sigh.

new dye tools...

2009-01-23T20:23:00.003-05:00

...super cheap. Picked up some bendy straws and snap top water bottles today. Going to use the bendy straws for scooping up dye. The water bottles are for squirting and mixing dyes.

Okay, on the business side of things. I'm super excited. I have a wholesale account with Wool2Dye4, which means that I plan to make some big orders soon. Yipppeee! My hope is that I can get enough yarn on the first order to keep me busy for at least 6 months. 'Course, it would be nice if things sold quick enough, then that would be great too. I currently planning names for different fiber lines, and dye techniques. I like to keep things simple for myself and my business. I plan to use 3 different dye techniques and 4 different fiber bases. Now there will be times when I want to try out new fibers and those will be special occasions and special updates. I also throwing about the idea of forgoing the naming of individual yarns. I'm considering starting a number system. It's becoming harder to come up with names for yarns especially with never repeating colorways. There may come a point when I will attempt to repeat colorways, but for now my enjoyment of using a dash of this and a pinch of that is just to my fun. I'm still thinking it over and haven't made up my mind. Any thoughts?

What to knit?

2009-01-20T20:51:00.002-05:00

I can not think of what to knit. Don't get me wrong, I have lots to knit. Lots of UFOs. But I want to knit something new. Since all the Christmas knitting I just can't seem to figure out what project I want to knit. I want to start a large project, like a sweater of which I have several in queue that I want to make, just not right now. I have a shawl that I want to make but I want to spin the yarn first. Gee. What's a knitter to do?

Lets get enviro freindly...and save money

2009-01-18T22:03:00.002-05:00

I've been listening to Stitch It!! Podcast for a while. This is a wonderful podcast with great stories about her family, spinning, and knitting. In a recent episode she described making your own laundry detergent, dryer balls, and using vinegar as a fabric softener. So tonight I made 2 sets of dryer balls, one for light clothes and one for colors. I'll update you on how they work. I also want to get the stuff to make the laundry detergent and try that out too.

praise

2009-01-16T19:41:00.003-05:00

I wanted to write a quick post in praise of fiber people. I've asked lots of questions this week. Questions to myself and to other. I want to say how I'm in ah of how wonderful and helpful people have been. juliespins and fiberphiles etsy shop owners who were willing to answer my questions. They didn't have to, but it means a lot to me that they did. Sheila from Wool2Dye4 responded so quickly to my request. I do believe that this will be my new fav supplier. I'm super excited to get moving on obtaining a business license and buying wholesale. Super excited.

I feel this a sense that this is going to be a great year for me and 1,000 Petals. I've spent the past 3 weeks spending every free moment making "to do" list. The good thing about these list...things are being checked off, not just remaining on the list only to taunt me. Yeah, good times.

color sample cards - how I made a set

2009-01-10T23:30:00.011-05:00

I found these from Color Source Book for use with Jacquard Dyes. Since I use Cushing Dyes I decided to make a set for myself. Here's how I made them. First I dyed small lengths of yarn with each color.Supplies: card stock, stick glue, dyed yarn, scissors, and small crochet hook

1. Printed the color names on card stock and then cut them up.

Printed the name and type of dye.

2. I then added a dab of stick glue to the back. Anchor the yarn to this and started wrapping.

3. Using a small crochet hook I tucked the yarn under the wraps.4. Then using the palm of my hand I firmly pressed the yarn into the glue. Repeated these steps for each card.

Once I get a hole punch I'm going to put them onto a ring.

Ups and Downs

2009-01-09T20:13:00.002-05:00

This week has been an interesting one. Went back to work after being off for 2 weeks. By Wednesday night I was a feeling a bit...um...emotional. I was mostly frustrated that some business stuff is not going a fast as I would like it to go. After a good night of sleep I'm feeling much better and have a more positive attitude. I've got big plans to help thing along. I know I'm being a little vague, sorry. Anyway, I just checked my email and found that someone had added my etsy shop to their Treasury called "Get Knitty". Well first, I didn't even know what this was. But, I clicked the link and I'm feeling a bit teary but for good reasons. I'm so honored. It's just the coolest thing. I just want to say a special Thank You to Just Lovely. I just don't know what else to say about it.

Okay, on the business front. Gonna' keep makin' my Etsy store better and better. Just Sayin'.

1,000 Petals - January 5th update

2009-01-05T20:11:00.003-05:00

1,000 Petals Update

Tibetan Deities, Buddhas, and Guardians

Each roving is named after a Deity, Buddha, or Guardian that is believed to influence the lives of Buddhist. When meditating on the attributes given to any one of these figures the believer will strive to achieve these qualities or strengths into ones daily living.

Superwash Merino Wool Top

Sneek Peek at Bamboo

2009-01-03T23:54:00.004-05:00

Getting started on this whole designing patterns thing. This is going to be the first pattern that I'm going to give out. It will be free and very simple, but with 2 different versions. I've never written out a pattern so I'm keeping it simple and will have a couple of knit friend test the pattern to make sure it is understandable.

New Years Resolutions

2009-01-02T22:16:00.002-05:00

I didn't make any. Is this bad? I have some things that I want change in the new year but I don't want to make a resolution. Well, here is a list of things I want to focus on in the next year.

1. 1,000 Petals. This is first on the list and very important to me.
2. Healthy eating. Okay, I know there are a metric butt tone of people out there that are saying the same things. My point is not to loose weight, although this would be a nice side effect. I want to learn to appreciate what I eat. Couple of blocks to this one...it's hard to find recipes to feed only 2 people and also I don't want to spend a bunch of money on better food choices.
3. I want to focus on photography. Literally. I love photography. I not trying to make a business out of it like 1,000 Petals. Just satisfy myself.

So there it is for everyone to see. I'm off to find some easy healthy recipes. If I find some good stuff I'll keep you updated.

2009-01-01T14:37:00.000-05:00

bobbin P0rn

2008-12-30T00:04:00.001-05:00

Brain Age

2008-12-29T15:45:00.002-05:00

Sad to say but when I first tested my brian age it was 79. Now I am at 53. Better but not great. That is 19 years older then my actual age.

focusing on 1,000 Petals

2008-12-27T15:20:00.006-05:00

It had to be done. 1,000 Petals needed an update. Not a fiber update, although that is on its was too. But it needed an image update.

New Label
New Web Button

New Etsy and Ravelry Button

Whats to come? Whats also to be considered?

1. Patterns. Lots of ideas are swirling in my brain.

2. I'm considering and researching building a website. Maybe using zen cart. I need more info and need to decide if I have the smarts to build it. I might also consider having a local friend help out.

3. I've got to decide if buying in bulk will be possible. Currently I buy 2lbs at a time. I'd like to be able to buy much more and get a better discount, but the initial investment might be a problem.

4. I'm currently testing out better lighting equipment.

12-26-08

2008-12-26T15:47:00.008-05:00

Okay, time to take a break. Thank God I took next week off from work. I finished Mom's sweater and Dad's blanket. I think they liked them.

Dad wearing his blanket.

Pattern: Cable Comfort Throw from Lion Brand.

Yarn: Lion Brand Thick & Quick.

Mods: I used size 15 needles instead of the recommended 13. I only did 4 panels instead of 5. That's about it. Mom's Sweater

Pattern: Personal Pattern. Created using the help of Sweater Wizard. Top-Down.

Yarn: Elann Superwash Bamboo in Pottery Red.

First Spin

Used 1 oz of "Ra" superwash wool. 4 oz of Ra is available on my etsy. ***self promotion***.

I am very proud of this first try at spinning on a wheel. The Wheel? Stella a Kromski Minstrel. Yes, her name is Stella and I love her.

Special thanks to Mom and Dad for this wonderful gift.

Stinky

2008-12-24T03:58:00.002-05:00

It is 3:59 in the morning. I am trying to complete the Christmas knitting, and one of the dogs has gut rot. OMG! That's what I get for giving them wet food.

Thought I would share.

12-21-08

2008-12-21T20:08:00.004-05:00

Please forgive me. I have so much to blog about but no time. Just thought I would drop in and let you know that I am currently making a mad dash to the Christmas finish line.

What's New?

2008-12-10T22:11:00.003-05:00

Egyptian Deities Roving. I'm most satisfied with these. I think I have found my fav dye process which allows for an unpredictability that I just luv. Each priced at $15 and shipped priority mail.

Things I have learned - Metal Clay

2008-12-08T18:40:00.001-05:00

I have never had any formal training so these are things that I have figured out on my own, or borrowed from other sources.

1. I keep the clay moist by storing it in vacuum seal bag with a moist towel tucked in with it. This is good for short periods, days not weeks. The plan is to use all the clay before it dries out, so at this time I don't buy the 50 gram packs unless I know I am going to use it quickly.

2. When attaching two dry (prefired) pieces together I not only use the syringe type clay as a glue but I also moisten both surfaces. This is borrowed from pottery classes.

3. Olive oil does NOT work for me. I spent a little extra money and bought the special hand conditioner used specifically for working with metal clay.

4. Collect all prefired dust. This can be from the residue left on brushes, or from small bits of dried clay left on the work surface. Also, when sanding a dry (prefired) piece I lay a piece of cardstock on my surface to collect all the fillings. These can later be rehydrated and used again. You would not believe how much clay is saved. Also, when using a wet brush, the brush is rinsed in a container that will collect the clay that stuck to the brush.

5. Silicone molds are AWSOME! Carving stamp pads are AWSOME! Both are great for creating your own unique forms and textures.

6. I use polymer clay to shape more intricate items, bake the polymer clay and then use silicone molding material to make a flexible mold. I can then take my time with the poly pieces without worry of the metal clay drying out. I then use the silicone molding material to make a mold of the item. These molds can also be used over and over again. I just press the metal clay in the mold and pop out when dry.

7. A tissue blade, originally purchased for polymer clay work also work very well for metal clay.

8. I use a silicone spray to spray my tools and molds. I also spray a small amount onto a paper towel for use with smaller tools and the tissue blade. This spray keeps the clay from sticking to any surface.

Metal clay is some sticky stuff. Not sticky like gum, but it wants to grab onto anything that touches it. Hope this helps, I am no teacher and I am not in a guild, but these are things that have helped me along the way.

Things I have learned - Spinning

2008-12-07T21:08:00.001-05:00

I spin on a spindle, my spinning wheel is being held hostage until Christmas. Santa is mean. Anyway, these are practices that work best for me. I haven't taken a spinning class so some parts might be things you would learn in a class. These might also be "duh" things, but might be helpful to someone.

1. Before pre-drafting roving I do something that I call "snapping". I hold a short lengths of the fiber between my hands (shorter than the staple length) and snap it a couple of times working my way down the roving. For me this fluffs and straightens out the fiber. Seems that it allows the fiber to draft easier.

2. I split the roving into 3 sections, lengthwise. I have tried leaving it hole. I have tried 2 and 4 sections. But for me 3 works best.

3. I made a little pouch wrist thingy. I saw it on a you tube video. While at home I just make a nice little pile, but when I take my spindle out, the little pouch keeps the roving nicely tucked away and keeps it from blowing around in the wind.

4. If I'm wanting to do 2 ply I weigh my roving and split in half. If 3 ply I divide in thirds. This helps to make sure there is even amount for plying later.

5. I keep all my roving in waiting in ziplock baggies. Keeps fiber from snagging on anything, and if my cat sneaks into my studio, the roving is safe.

watcha knitin'?

2008-12-02T23:59:00.004-05:00

Yes, I am still knitting. It seems I haven't been blogging much about it lately. Oh, I'm thinking about doing a couple vlogs (video blogs). I thought that would be fun. Anyway, well most of my attention is going to handmade items for Christmas gifts. My Mom's sweater being first on the list. It's a top down v-neck sweater with a 2 row pattern repeat. Simple enough but not to boring to make my mind melt to mush. Still knitting on Paul's socks, 2 done so far. This past weekend I decided to work on some WIGP's (weekend instant gratification projects). I knit 3 pair of Garter Stitch Mitts and a sideways garter stitch hat. I'm also still working (slowly) on my clapotis. Most Christmas gifts this year will be knit or handmade in some way. I'm making some pendents for some and knits for others and I don't know what for the rest.

metal clay

2008-11-24T21:39:00.004-05:00

Old dog with new tricks. You know having the proper tools makes all the difference. I worked with metal clays years ago with a bit of success. Well, I wanted to try it out again. I bought some more clay. I also got some tools that I lacked before such as a Teflon board, molding compound, hand conditioner, and non-stick spray. What a difference! The clay not sticking to everything is the best thing ever. The first time I worked with this stuff I think half of it stayed on my fingers. I am also using the vacuum sealing bags with a damp paper towel to keep the clay moist, this seems to be working. I am so excited. I made 4 pendants and one ring only using about half of the 20grams of clay. I also bought the Hot Pot kiln which is a little kiln that uses gelled alcohol. I have heard mixed reviews of this, so it will be interesting to see what happens. I haven't decided if I'm going to sell any of these, or just make them for gifts. I'm thinking of a cute pendant for Paul's niece and something for our friends daughters. We'll see.

well..

2008-11-18T19:24:00.002-05:00

...it appears that I join flickr groups like I join ravelry groups.

Currently dying up some more roving. What could be better? 'Course I did have to pull myself away from my other creative joy right now. Precious Metal Clay! Yep, I'm back doing that again. My creativity is cyclic.

Paul and I put up some more shelving in my studio Saturday which was such a relief. Things are quit a bit more organized. For now...

Note to self...

2008-11-12T17:10:00.001-05:00

Dear Julie,

Get your ARSS in gear!

You have all these ideas that would be great if you would get moving on them. Motivation is not a reason for the dragging ars, it is fear and funds. But, you know as well as I do (because I am you) that really the funds are not the problem, because these ideas will take very little funds. So what is it? Say it with me...Fear! Fear of the unknown. Fear of rejection. Fear of wasted time and resources. Fear of failure. Whoa...that is the big one...Fear of FAILURE!

Just so you know this is not going to be a motivational letter. Simply a "face the facts" kinda letter. We all know that nothing is certain. We all know that there is no guarantee. We all know these trite things. So in conclusion. GET OVER IT!

Love, Me

Reality Check

2008-11-04T20:14:00.003-05:00

There comes a time when you have to ask yourself...will I ever be able to be truely participate in all these Ravelry groups? The answer "No". So, unfortunately I have leave some (a lot) of these groups. I know there is good info to be had in all and great people who regularly post in a lot of them. But, I want to focus on a manageable list. So, I am saying goodbye.

lots to update

2008-11-02T13:20:00.005-05:00

Noro swirl afghan is moving along. I am loving how it's turning out. Can't wait to finish it, but I will have to as my top priorities are Christmas knitting.

2nd pair of Paul's Christmas socks are done.

1st pair of Paul's Christmas socks are done.

Coolest thing ever! This is my custom skin from skin it along side the original skein.

Capricorn?

2008-10-28T20:53:00.002-04:00

CAPRICORN - The Go-Getter (Dec 22 - Jan 19) Patient and wise. Practical and rigid. Ambitious. Tends to be Good-looking. Humorous and funny. Can be a bit shy and reserved. Often pessimistic. Capricorn's tend to act before they think and can be Unfriendly at times. Hold grudges. Like competition. Get what they want.

Is this me? Is this who I am? Well...honestly a lot of these characteristics are me, but there are times I am more like this...

SAGITTARIUS - The Happy-Go-Lucky One (Nov 22 - Dec 21) Good-natured optimist. Doesn't want to grow up (Peter Pan Syndrome). Indulges self. Boastful. Likes luxuries and gambling. Social and outgoing. Doesn't like responsibilities. Often fantasizes. Impatient. Fun to be around. Having lots of friends. Flirtatious. Doesn't like rules. Sometimes hypocritical. Dislikes being confined - tight spaces or even tight clothes. Doesn't like being doubted. Beautiful inside and out.

I think I'm about half and half. So here are the characteristics that I think are more like me. Happy-Go-Lucky
Humorous and funny
Bit shy and reserved (at least until I get to know you)
Doesn't like responsibilities
Often fantasizes (about having my very own yarn shop)
Impatient
Unfriendly at times
Doesn't like rules
Dislikes being confined (like in the Mission Space ride at Epcot)
Gets what they want ( I will have a yarn shop someday)

I'm thinking I'm a big bag of contradictions.

10-25-08 Etsy Update

2008-10-25T19:51:00.003-04:00

1,000 Petals Update

60% Merino Top and 40% Bamboo

"What to say when your package arrives" series

Disney World in October

2008-10-19T19:22:00.002-04:00

What a great weekend for a theme park. Too bad I just a nasty cold. But we did get some rides in before the mack truck full of snot hit me. When we got there Friday night we went straight to the Magic Kingdom. We got there at the right time...it was in the middle of one of the night parades so we headed to the Haunted Mansion, no lines. Then, to the Thunder Mountain Railroad, very short line. Then, over to Pirates of the Caribbean, no line. We road 3 rides in under an hour and still got to watch the fireworks. By that night though I could feel myself getting sicker. When we woke up Saturday morning I felt okay but not great. But by Saturday night the truck hit. Damn. Ever since then I have felt like ass. Oh well, we have annual passes so we can go back anytime.

Sensual Serendipity

2008-10-13T19:02:00.003-04:00

I know. I know. It's just a book. Saturday I got the Jo-Ann Fabric's weekly sale email and it had a 50% off in store coupon. I printed out with plans on going and buying a book. Well, I did come home with a book but so not the one I was looking for. I wanted that color theory book...I can't remember the name. I've seen it there before. Well, it wasn't there today when I went to use my coupon. So, I picked out every book that even looked interesting. Picked out 5. But, this was still not one of them. I then put them all down on the table and took a peak. Nothing special. Put those back. Now, I have seen this book before and they had quit a few copies that kept peeking out from behind the others. I picked up and started looking through it...um wow. Now I have a few criteria for a pattern book. Wide range of pattern styles. Check. Several patterns that will be appropriate for hot weather liven'. Check. Most if not all sweaters with sizes that range above 46' bust. Check. I just hate picking up a book and all the sizes end at 42'. I want to make the Vixen Caamisole, Silken Cowl Tank, McQueen Sweater, Sayuri Sweater, Ramona Sweater, Multiplicity Sweater, Snezi Oversized Shrug, Silky Negligee, and Adelle Stockings. That's um 9. Not bad from one book. Oh I know the negligee is a bit of an oddity, but I think it would be a nice little treat.