My Knittin World

Aran Cable Cardigan

2008-11-18T14:38:00.007+08:00

I'm knitting a wool cardigan. Probably this is the only project I'm doing in wool. The weather in Malaysia is not suitable at all for wearing wool outdoor unless you are like me sitting in a freezing office from 9 to 5. I got the yarn actually for another project but after looking at the earlier pattern for quite some time I'm kinda of got bored with it. Recently, while browsing thru some books in the bookstore I found this book Aran Knitwear and Accessories(編んでみよう　アランもようのウエアと小もの) by Nihon Vogue. There are a few nice designs in this book that I really like.

For this round, I've chosen the cable cardigan. The yarn I'm using is Laines Du Nord Korall which I got it from Webs. So far I've completed the front and the back. 2 more sleeves to go before seaming and the collar.

I'll update again with more progress soon.

Stardust

2008-11-17T16:22:00.003+08:00

Here is another one :-

The design is from Knitty. The yarn use for Stardust is the Rowan RYC Cashcotton 4 ply in colourway brown. I've used up almost 4 balls.

Gathered Lace Cardi

2008-11-17T15:21:00.009+08:00

I know that I've neglected this blog. I have not been blogging since July. During this period, I have continue with knitting. Although, I have not been blogging regularly, I have updated my Ravelry on the new FOs. One of it is the Gathered Lace Cardi from Knit1 Spring/Summer 2008 magazine.

Finished this in 2 weeks. Considered this as fast as I will normally get bored knitting stockinette stitch. Ive started this as I was motivated by all the nice FO’s in Raverly and also from Loopy

I've used a smaller gauge yarn, the Jaeger Trinity in the colourway Red-Orange. Therefore, I’ve knitted the largest size. No other modifications made, I followed the increasing instruction as mentioned in the pattern.

Its fun and experimental for myself as I normally dont knit from the top. Enjoy knitting this and I love the “NO SEAMING” part.

Chinese Crochet Top

2008-06-09T11:28:00.004+08:00

Completed this one yesterday. I love it. I think it looks a bit like a Chinese Top because of the high neckline. Actually, I've attempted this design few months back but have frogged it as turns out a too drapey and heavy because of the yarn I've used.

Last Saturday I try to crochet it again and this time I've choosen DMC Petra. I used about 2+ balls for this top. I like how it turns out, light and airy. For this design I used the suggested hook size 4/0. Overall, I'm pretty satisfied.

Pattern Source Yarn : Euro Knit Spring/Summer 2008

Yarn : DMC Petra (2+ balls)

Needle Size : Japanese Needle Size 4/0

Completion Date : June 2008

Kusha Kusha Scarf

2008-06-04T10:25:00.006+08:00

I've seen and heard so much on the kusha kusha scarf and shawl in the website lately and so I decided to join in the fun as well. I just got the kit from habu and yesterday I can't stand any longer. For my kit, I've choosen the stainless steel in violet and the lace wool in the shade of brown.

Its in the progress now, aiming to complete it by the weekend. I like how it feels and so far it is turning out not bad.

I'll post more on it when it is completed.

P/S : Aw,I can't find your email in the comment. Hope that you will see this message.Did you follow exactly the number of stitches in the pattern? Well, sometime because of the difference in the thickness of the yarn use in the pattern the size will turn out differently. So the best possible way for you to get the size that you require is get your daughter exact size and then you can try to swatch the pattern to get the gauge. From there you will know how many repeats you need for the size you require. Normally, in the pattern it will shows for each repeat the number of stitches required. So add more to make it bigger or reduce it to make it smaller. Remember to add allowance to it as well because compare to knitting, crochet can't be stretch and through my experience I find that after washing a crochet garment it will shrink a bit. I'm not good at explanation but I hope this help

More Crochet ... No Knitting

2008-05-20T12:54:00.003+08:00

I have not been blogging for almost 2 months already. I wonder if anybody still visits and read this blog.

I have been knitting and crocheting this couple of months but got a little bored with knitting. Most of the knitting work in progress visited the frog pond. I hope to get back my mood in knitting soon.

As for crochet, I managed to complete a few project.

Pattern Source Yarn : World of Knits - Spring/Summer 2004

Yarn : DMC Petra (3+ balls)

Needle Size : Japanese Needle Size 2/0

Completion Date : April 2008

Pattern Source Yarn : Keitodama Summer 2008

Yarn : DMC Petra (2+ balls)

Needle Size : Japanese Needle Size 2/0

Completion Date : May 2008

Pattern Source Yarn : Amigurumi Pattern Book

Yarn : Aryclic

Needle Size : Japanese Needle Size 4/0

Completion Date : March 2008

Happy Chinese New Year

2008-02-05T10:45:00.000+08:00

I'll be away during the Chinese New Year which falls on 7th February this year. So I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a Gong Xi Fa Cai and may the year of the rat brings you happiness and good health.

First One For 2008

2008-01-30T21:12:00.000+08:00

I hope I'm not too late to wish everyone Happy New Year. I have not been blogging for almost 3 months already. The last post was in October 2007. Time really flies. I have not been really crafty this couple of months. I don't have any mood to knit at all but have been doing some crochet instead. I've completed this doily crochet bolero below.

Pattern Source Yarn : Japanese Book Let's Knit Series (ISBN 4-529-04209)

Yarn : DMC Petra - Pearl White (3 + balls)

Needle Size : Japanese Needle Size 2/0

Completion Date : January 2008

The construction of this bolero is quite unique. The bolero is a combination of two doily together joining it side by side. Thereafter it is folded up to "L" shape and the sleeves is crochet out from one of the border. First look at the chart is really very tricky but after crocheting it for a while you will get addicted to it.

I still don't have any mood to knit at the moment. Time is spend doing crochet. At the moment I'm attempting one of the crochet cardigan in The World of Knits 2004. Spring is approaching and Im really looking forward for all the new japanese crochet book to be out.

Before I end this post, I like to wish you all HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR and may the year of the RAT bring you happiness and good health.

GONG XI GONG XI, GONG XI FA CAI

Pink Is Sweet

2007-10-04T11:20:00.000+08:00

Thank you for all your compliment on my previous Crochet FOs. It is very encouraging. The reason I can complete it so fast probably is due to me having more time in the office. Usually after I've finish my work I'll will crochet or knit a few rows.

This is what currently on my needles. You might ask, "another motif, aren't you bored with it yet?"

Well, it turns out I like to see how much it has progress with joining of each motifs. Very interesting. I'm using DMC Petra in Pink shade. I think this colour looks real sweet. The only part I dread the most joining motifs will be binding off the ends. I just can't bear to see those loose ends dangling around, so the only way is I'll bind off all the loose ends after joining each one of them and not wait till the end to do it.

Lime Chrysanthemum

2007-10-02T11:38:00.000+08:00

Yes it is officially done. Overall, I'm satisfied with the end result.

I'm attracted to this design when I first saw it on this blog. I don't have the ISBN or title of the book but you can see the cover on Margaret's blog. (I can't read chinese but I really admired all her crochet FOs). She is really a talented crocheter. I follow her suggestions to add in 4 triangles on the armhole so that the armhole won't turn out too big.

Chrysanthemum use up approximately 1 ball of Bendigo 4 ply cotton. The needle size is Japanese Size 4/0.

Now, I'm off to check on my books for another project. It will probably be another crochet project. I can tell you I'm addicted to it.

Chrysanthemum

2007-09-26T15:00:00.000+08:00

Its crochet time again. I'm attempting another motif design. This time I need to crochet about 75 motifs. I'm naming this one as "Chrysanthemum". The progress so far,

I'm using Bendigo 4 ply cotton for this project. The colour of the yarn is actually lime green. I've tried a few times to capture the colour but it still turns out colourless. I'm using a size 4/0 Japanese Crochet Needle. I should be able to complete the motif and borders by this week. I'll post more on my next post.

Flower Motifs Top

2007-09-21T10:50:00.000+08:00

Completed this during the weekend. The pattern is pretty simple. As my gauge is different from the original pattern I did a little adjustment on it. The pattern required 14 motif per row and I did 13 instead. As a result, the top suits me better, not baggy at all. I use DMC Petra in pure white for this FO. Used up a little over 2 balls.

The pattern is from this book

A New Season

2007-09-11T10:39:00.000+08:00

I visited the local yarn store last weekend and looked what I got. New books for my collection.

I also got myself 2 balls of crochet thread in Baby Blue.

Flower, Flowers, Flowerss...

2007-09-07T12:12:00.001+08:00

I'm crocheting at the moment. You can see that it is motifs. I'm not going to reveal more about this project (as I feel that I'm jinx if I talk too much about my work in progress). I've started this one a few weeks ago and have been to the frog pond a few times. My first time doing motifs and I find it hard at first. Maybe something is wrong with my eye sight, I find that the size of each motifs runs a bit. Luckily, after joining a few rows it turns out alright.

Still a long way to go. I still need to crochet at least 40 more motifs. Here is the progress so far.

Now, I can feel the excitement since I joined up a few rows. It grows tremendously after joining of the motif. I'll post more about this project in my next post (ss for now I need to zip my mouth and not talk too much about it).

Recently Completed

2007-08-14T16:29:00.000+08:00

What have I been doing while not blogging. I've been knitting and crocheting. Thats what I did most of the time. To prove it, I've completed this FO's some weeks back. It took me some time to post this photos as the camera is down. This FOs are from knitting and crocheting.

Currently, I'm doing another crochet top. I think I'm hook on crochet. Crochet is faster and more challenging. I'm still in the learning stage and hope to churn out more FOs soon. I'll post about my current project soon in my next post.

Time Flies....

2007-07-23T15:27:00.001+08:00

Time really flies without you even notice it. It has been more than 2 months since my last post. A lot happen in this 2 months I'm away, some sad news and some good ones too.

In the month of June, I've been to HongKong for a short trip. Basically, some sight seeing and most importantly is yarn shopping. Not much shopping done during the visit as it has been raining but nevertheless we did manage to visit all the major spots.

I was lucky that Hubby doesn't mind me going on yarn shopping. I manage to visit at least 5 of the local yarn shop. Here is what I got.

All of them are in cotton which is suitable for our weather here in Malaysia.

Well, during the time I was not blogging I was actually involved in knitting. I manage to finish 3 FO's. I only manage to upload one of it. This is the Latte Cardi which is has been left aside for quite a while. A lot of hard work for this project but I like it cause I won't be falling asleep knitting.

I'll post about the other 2 FO's in my next post. Hopefully, I won't be too lazy to post again.

Orangey Crochet Bolero

2007-05-17T12:08:00.000+08:00

I've been crocheting. The latest one I've completed is an Orangey Crochet Bolero. The pattern is from the new World of Knits - Spring & Summer 2007. I've finished crocheting it last 3 weeks ago but I'm too lazy to blog about it.

I've used 5 balls of DMC Senso for this project. It is indeed one fast project. Here is the close-up of the sleeves and the border stitches.

No more crocheting now. I'm back to knitting. Will post about the knitting progress soon. By the way, I've completed my latte top too. I'll blog about it soon in the next post.

Crochet Bolero

2007-04-19T12:48:00.000+08:00

I'm back again. It has been a while since the last post. I didn't post because I have nothing to post, no FO for the past few weeks.

Only last Saturday, I managed to finish this ;

Crochet Bolero (Front View)

Crochet Bolero (Back View)

Crochet is real fast, I completed it in a week. The yarn I use for this is 6 balls of DMC Senso in pastel pink. I love the crochet border. Here is the close-up of the borders;

The pattern for this bolero is from a japanese pattern book "Spring/Summer Stylish Handknits For Women". If you are interested to get a copy the ISBN No is 978-4-8347-2519-3 and the front cover looks like this;

The only modification I made for this patterns is the sleeve. The borders is too big for my arm, I have to resize it to fit my arm. Overall the pattern can be classified as easy for a new crocheter like me.

I'm currently working on another piece of crochet. This time is the pattern is from the World of Knits - Spring Summer 2007. Here is the preview;

More photos to follow once it is completed.

Isabeau Tote

2007-03-19T15:12:00.000+08:00

Knitting progress has been real slow. I'm just not motivated to knit at all.

During the recent Chinese New Year Holidays, I manage to find some time in between visiting family and friends to finish up this tote.

This design is from Sylvie Damey called Isabeau Tote. It is one fast knit pattern but probably because I'm lack of interest in knitting, this tote like took forever to finish.

I've use 3 balls of Rowan All Season Cotton for this tote. The only modification that I made to the pattern is replacing the bag handle with a PVC handle.

On my other progress in knitting, I'm still knitting the lace top from my previous post. I'll blog about it once there it any progress on it.

I've Been Bad

2007-03-19T14:56:00.000+08:00

I'm still here but I know I'm bad. SP 9 had been long over and I still have not blog about my last package from my SP. In the last package, my SP send me Knit Scene Magazine, At Knit's End from Stephanie Pearl-McPhee and set of beautiful stitch markers. And my spoiler is no other than Yvonne from UK. Thank you so much Yvonne. I just love all the gifts presented to me.

Here is the close-up of the stitch markers. It is really a beauty don't you think so.

My spoilee is from Hungary. Her name is Zita and she is one talented lady. She can really do magic with her sewing and like me she is into lace knitting too. I've been having fun sending stuff to her. I'm so glad that she is happy with the stuff that I've send her. You can check her out here.

I really have a super time in this round of SP. Thank you so much to both Yvonne and Zita for being a wonderful SP.

Keitodama Spring 2007

2007-02-03T12:47:00.000+08:00

The new Keitodama Spring 2007 is out. I just got myself a copy. A lot of crochet stuff for those who loves crochet. For myself, I was only attracted to 2 of the designs. You can help yourself to a little preview HERE.

This is the 2 design that I find I love personally. You may notice that it is lace stuff again for me. I can knit faster with lace. I won't get bored easily as well. It will keep me going for hours. As I've been searching for something to knit, I'm going to knit something from this issue. In fact I've started one. Here is the progress so far.

I'm using Bendigo 4 ply cotton. It is so light and the yarndage is good. The lace really shows well with this yarn.

Thats all for now folks. I'll blog again on the progress soon.

Cap Sleeve Top

2007-02-01T12:10:00.001+08:00

Knitting is pretty slow nowadays. its either I can't find time knitting or I'm too lazy to knit.

Anyhow, I only manage to finish a Cap Sleeve Top recently. This is one of the design from the Debbie Bliss Pure Silk Collection gifted to me by my Secret Pal. At first I was quite worried that I can't follow the instructions as I normally only knit from Japanese magazine. I was lucky. The instructions is clear and easy too follow.

I did not use the recommended yarn suggested. Instead I've use a yarn with a similar gauge the Jaeger Sienna. It is in the shade of sky blue. This was knitted with needle size 3.6mm. I've use up a total of 5 balls of Jaeger Sienna.

It is a new experience for me as I was introduced to cap sleeve in this design. I do love the sleeve a lot.

Now that I'm done with this one I'm off to search for another new pattern to knit.

Have a nice weekend and Happy Knitting.

First Post For 2007

2007-01-12T16:56:00.000+08:00

This is my first post since the New Year. I hope it is not too late to wish you all a Happy New Year.

You must have notice that I have not been blogging. The internet connection is poor. Sometimes I can't even surf at all. Two days ago, I manage to download some photos in Blogger but I can't blog. It took me ages just to open the posting page. It is really frustrating.

To cut stories short, here is my Martha finish last year. The last piece of the year. I try to modelled in it, but the photos taken by hubby doesn't turn out nice, its pretty gloomy. To compensate, here is Martha on the mannequin. (It is still gloomy but I swear this is much much better then the one hubby took)

The is another long winded project. I think it took me almost a month to finish this one which I can't really complain cause I have alternate it between the baby set. I've used up almost 6 balls of Rowan 4 ply cotton only a few yards to spare. Luckily, I've headed you girls comment to shorten the sleeves. If I had follow the full instrustions, I bet I won't have enough yarn. Lesson learned, to buy yarn only when you know what you wanted to knit it (which I doubt I can follow, LOL).

I love the shaping of the neckline. Here is the closer look of the neckline.

Currently, knitting is pretty slow. I've started 3 projects. You must be surprised. Me with 3 projects but the progress of the 3 is real slow. I just can't concentrate on any knitting nowadays. I'll post some photos on the progress once the connection is back to normal. I hope it will be real soon.

Till then take care.

What A Day

2006-12-28T15:01:00.000+08:00

I can't log in to the net for almost the whole yesterday morning. This is because local access to internet services and websites hosted overseas came to a standstill after international links were distrupted by the earthquake that struck southern Taiwan on Tuesday night. So you can guess, life is bored in the office without internet access. I was a bit lucky, manage to get online later in the evening but it was real slow. Today is better and hope that it will get back to normal soon.

Back from lunch yesterday and I got a surprise on my table. A package waiting for me. It was from my SP. It was a real surprise as I was not aware that I will be receiving a package from her. Thanks SP. I just love it. She sent me 1 skein of the Habu Textile 100% silk yarn, chocolates, a notepad and address book, a Christmas carol CD and not forgetting the Debbie Bliss Pure Silk Collection.

Knitting progress, I've completed Martha last weekend before Christmas. I'll post about it soon in my next post as I still don't get the chance to model in it yet.

Well, I think I better log-off now before the line act up again. Till then, wishing you Happy Holidays and A Happy New Year.

For A New Born

2006-12-12T15:22:00.000+08:00

This is what I have been knitting for the past couple of weeks. Not for myself but it is for a friend who just gave birth to a baby girl on last Sunday. I hope she will like it. I made a cardigan, hat and a pair of bootees. The pattern is from one of the Japanese knitting book. This set is knitted with KnitPicks Bare Merino Wool Fingering Weight. I use up a little over 1 skein. A new experience for me as this is my first baby knits.

Cardigan

Hat

Bootees

Here it is, in the box ready to be send out to the receiver. This morning before I went off to work, I managed to sent it out by courier. Hope she will receive it tomorrow.

An Early Surprise

2006-11-21T10:52:00.000+08:00

Monday is normally a boring day for me.

But yesterday it is indeed one happy one for me. Guess what a surprise I got yesterday. Its a an early birthday and xmas package from Vanessa. Here's what she got me.

She knew that I wanted to try felting and she is so kind to get me some wool for a tote. She even got me some nice fabric for lining. The colour of the yarn was my ideal colour too, its call pearl gray. I hope I can find some time soon to knit it up.

Did you see there is something wrap up in that tissue wrapper? I can't believe it when I unwrapped it. Its a luxury skein of the Handmaiden Seasilk I've been longing to have for quite sometime. It is even the in shade that I'm planning to get it earlier.

Oh Van, thank you so much. This is my first birthday present and I'm going to treasure it a lot.

You are my angel.

Tutti Fruity Martha

2006-11-20T15:46:00.000+08:00

I feel that it has been quite sometime since I last posted on any projects.

I'm attempting to knit Martha from Rowan 37. I'm knitting the eyelet version using the same yarn suggested by the pattern. It is Rowan 4 Ply cotton. Do you think the colour a little too bright? I'm not sure what I'm thinking when I brought this yarn. Anyhow since I have 6 balls of it in the shade called Tutti Fruity in my stash, I decided to knit Martha.

According to the instructions, I will need 6 balls of yarn for the size XS. Now, I'm still knitting the back (at this time of this post I still got a few more rows before reaching the neck shaping). I've use up almost 2 balls now and I'm a bit worried that I won't have enough yarn. Since I got this yarn sometime back, I don't think I can get any extra ball from the same lot. Lesson learned, always get an extra ball for any project.

I have another project in progress. I'll post more about it in the next post.

Dedicated To My Secret Pal

2006-11-18T11:05:00.000+08:00

This is a post dedicated to my Secret Pal.

I received a package all the way from England yesterday morning. The package really make my day. Here is a photo to proof it.

(1) Woman's Weekly - Knitting & Stitching.
I found something I wanted to knit minutes after browsing through. It just came
in time, as I was looking for a cable cardi pattern to knit.

(2) 6 balls of Bergerde De France - Flamme Lin in the shade of lovely pink

(3) A pattern for the yarn - Sweater with Lacy Edges
This is a pattern that goes with the yarn. I will definately attempt to knit this once I'm done with all my other WIP.

(4) A packet of Belgian White & Milk Chocolate

(5) I box of After Eight Chocolate

(6) A greeting card

I was drooling over the package the whole morning in the office.

Thank you so much SP. Love U.

P/s : As this post is dedicated to my SP, I will post more on my knitting in the next post. Stay tune.

Presenting To You ...

2006-11-09T13:50:00.000+08:00

Hanging Garden Lace Shawl is here.

This was knitted with Knitpicks Shadow in the shade of Sunset. I used up a little over 3 balls to create a 22" x 70" shawl. As I mentioned earlier I have problems blocking it probably because it is big. I don't think I will be knitting any shawl anytime soon. Knitting is easy but blocking is really a challenge to me.

No work in progress for the time being. I'm looking at books for something to knit. I still can't find anything yet to knit. I'll post on more on next post hopefully with one of the WIP. Till then, have a nice weekend.

Photoless Post

2006-11-04T10:14:00.000+08:00

Life has been hectic for me for this couple of weeks. I've been been busy with home and work.

This post is going to be a photoless one. It will be a short one as well. I'm posting this in the office on a lazy Saturday morning. I wanted to show you my finish Hanging Garden Shawl, too bad I forgot to bring my camera adapter. I only realize this when I took my camera out this morning. The camera had been inside my bag for a few days and I didn't realize at all that I dont have the adapter with me till now.

I've finish knitting the shawl early this week and blocking had been hell. I tried blocking it a few times. Each time, half way through it, I give up. I find that its hard to stretch, probably because it is too long. I find that the Knitpicks Shadow bleeds as well. So anyone using this to knit just be aware that the colour runs.

No new projects at the moment, the purple rib top has been frog as well. I'll find some other pattern for the yarn later.

I'm going to post again soon with my finish shawl. Cya soon.

Dessert Anyone?

2006-10-16T11:00:00.000+08:00

I had been a good girl last weekend. Hubby had to work so I had stayed home the whole day. I had the long weekend all to myself. So what did I do, well definately I knit and knit and beside that I prepare this.

This is "Gingko Nuts and Barley Soup". It is one of the Chinese traditional dessert. It consist of gingko nuts, beancurd strips and barley. The chinese believe that this soup will help to purify the kidneys and bladder. Not my favourite dessert anyway but hubby loves it.

Besides that, the last week I started another new knitting project. Its a shawl again. It's the Hanging Garden Stole by Sivia Harding. I think I'm addicted to it. I can't seem stop knitting it. 48 rows for each repeat and after each repeat the shawl grows tremendously. I still have a long way to go but with the long weekend ahead I hope I will have more time knitting it.

Hazy Days

2006-10-09T10:41:00.000+08:00

The haze is back. This is from the smoke fire in Sumatra and Kalimantan. I'm not sure how long this will last. But according to the meterological department there will be change of wind this few days, so we just hope the condition will be better soon. Below is the view of the Twin Tower in the Kuala Lumpur City Centre. This was taken like less then 1km away. You can see the visibility is real bad. Just hope that it will rain soon and wash away the haze. It has been humid too this couple of days.

My latte top has to be frogged. It turned out a bit long. I'm getting a bit bored with the pattern. It is still sitting in my bag, I'm going to frog it soon and use the yarn for something else. I casted on another top last week. The progress is real slow. It is a ribbed top with moss stitch in between. Here is the progress so far.

I'll post more on the progress soon if there is any as I'm itchy to start something else now.

Secret Pal 9 Questionnaire

2006-10-04T20:58:00.000+08:00

What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely
*not* like?
I like to knit with cotton blend yarn which is more suitable for our weather here in Malaysia which is hot and humid. I also love to knit shawl and scarf with lace or fingering weight yarn. Most of my yarn is in fingering and sport weight. I prefer to knit with them more then worsted or bulky weight.

What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
At the moment, I store my straight needles in a vase I got from IKEA and I'm still looking around for a circular needle case to store my circulars.

How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? Would you consider your
skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?
I'm not sure myself now, how long I have been knitting. I learned knitting from my mom and
the rest I pick up from books. I consider my skill level is intermediate to advance.

Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
I don't have any now but I'll create one on my side bar soon. So look out for it.

What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products, etc.)
I'm don't like scented candles but I do like sweet scents like lavendar and any fruity scents.

Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
I love dark chocolates or any chocolates with fruits and nuts (definately no no to white chocolates).

What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?
I think I'm not a creative person, most of my knitting is straight from books with instructions. (I use to design my own pattern but with all the new books around, I think it is easier to knit straight from the books). So, beside knitting I still do a bit of crocheting. Not into spinning at the moment.

What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD?
I love sentimental and love songs and most of the time I listen to musis from my computer or MP3.

What's your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can't stand?
I love pastels colours. No bright colours for me i.e. orange and red.

What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
I stay with my hubby and I do have a kitty pet call Baby.

Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
I do wear scarves but not hats, mittens or ponchos. Guess this is not suitable for me in this weather.

What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
I love to knit lacy tops, scaves and shawls. At least lace won't get me bored and I can stay more focus.

What are you knitting right now?
Nothing in progress rite now. I'm frogging at the moment. I'm planning though, will post on my blog once it is in progress.

Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
Not so much into handmade gifts but I do appreciate it.

Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
Previously, I prefer straight to circulars but for the past one year I find that circulars are easier to handle. Therefore, now I can say that I prefer circulars more than straight. I prefer my circulars in aluminium.

Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
I just bought a yarn winder and still waiting for it to arrive. I don't own a swift, probably will get hubby to make a simple one for me if I ever needed it.

How old is your oldest UFO?
At the moment I don't have any UFO.

What is your favorite holiday?
My favourite holiday will be yarn shopping. Been pestering hubby to go on holidays so I can get more yarn.

Is there anything that you collect?
Is yarn consider a collection? My stash is growing.

Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
I'm dying to have a set of Knitpicks Interchangeable needles. As for the rest I'll post it on my side bar soon. I subscribe to Interweave Knits but I'm going to stop once the subcriptions end.

Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn?
I love to learn more about crocheting as I find my stitches are not even.

Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
I'm not a sock knitter as I seldom wear it here in Malaysia and my foot measurements is 36.

When is your birthday? (mm/dd)
November, 24th

Sometimes One Is Just Not Enough

2006-09-28T20:51:00.000+08:00

I have not been blogging for a while. Nothing much to write I assume, as not much knitting have been done and life is normal. Before I forget, thank you so much for all the compliments on the vest. All the compliments really brighten my day.

During the non-blogging period, I managed to finish the Diamond Fantasy Shawl by Sivia Harding. This is knitted with Knitpicks Bare - Merino Wool Fingering Weight. I only have 1 skein of the yarn so the scarf actually turns out quite small. Here it is before blocking.

And this is how it looks like after blocking.

I think I better not start knitting any new project anymore. There is still another UFO. Sometimes it is really hard to stick to only one project. With all the new knitting books I've got myself, it is really tempting to start something new. Yes, I've bought some new books again.

I also managed to grab a copy of World of Knits, Autumn and Winter issue yesterday from the local book store.

I'll post more in the next post.

Something to Show

2006-09-08T15:02:00.000+08:00

Thank you for all the compliments on the Shawl.

I started something after the shawl. Here is the simple vest top.

This is a really simple and fast knit. Took me only about 4 or 5 days to complete. This pattern is from the Lets Knit Series Vol 14. Here is the closeup of the design. The pattern is actually a combination of lace and cables.

I managed to grab the latest copy of Keitodama, the Fall 2006 issue last week. Nothing really fancy me just for own Keitodama collection. Who knows maybe some day something will catch my eyes.

So what's my next project. I guess it will be another in natural colour. This is a tunic from one of the Japanese book. Not much progress now, got to spend more time on knitting.

Swallow Tail Shawl

2006-08-14T11:28:00.000+08:00

This is an interesting knit. I was so worried that it was not big enough initially. It nearly headed to the frog pond. I did some alteration too. This is knitted with Zephyr in Sage colour shade on 4mm needles. I omit knitting the nupps. That was really miserable. K5 together is really hard. I try to knit it loosely but I still feel it is difficult. So now, you can see from the close-up it is without the nupps.

Zephyr is easy to knit too. While knitting, you can easily spot the mistake and the lace reveals itself beautifully even before blocking. I personally loves the Budding Lace and the Peaked Edging.

After blocking the shawl measure 24" from bottom centre point to top edge and 50" wide across top edge.

Frustrating

2006-08-10T10:42:00.000+08:00

I'm back. I've been through frustrating for the past one month. I think I've been jinxed. Everthing seems not right. Remember Gatsby. After blocking the back piece and left aside a few days, it changes colour again (in spots). The front side after blocking became worse too. Along the neckline it changes colour tremendously. I don't know what went wrong. I still can't figure it out till today. I guess this is the reason that kept me awake a few nights.

I realised that the yarn doesn't change colour while I'm knitting it, it only happen once I've finish blocking it. I began to suspect thats its the water that I used but this is not proven yet as my other old FOs do not have this problem when I wash it. Well, solution to the spots is definately to bleach it again. So here you are, another FO in off-white.

After Gatsby, I knitted another tunic. This time with Jaegar Sienna. Bad luck seems to follow. After blocking it and left it aside for a week while I knit-up the front side, I found that it changes colour in spots on the Wrong Side. I manage to capture it in photos this time. Have a look. Do you girls have any idea what when wrong?

So currently, I've diverted myself from COTTON temporarily. I'm knitting the SwallowTail Shawl from 2006 Fall IK. This is knitted with Zephyr from the Estonian Garden Lace Shawl which I have frogged earlier. Ionly realised that I've make a mistake on the calculation when I was half way through. Well, I'll leave that aside and will re-knit it again with something else later.

Meet-Up & WIP

2006-07-06T10:44:00.000+08:00

The KL Knitters had a mini meet-up last Saturday in one of the coffee outlet in town. This time around we have 2 new faces, Ina and Nurhanne (a Danish knitter residing in Malaysia for about 20 years now). Eventhough there were only 6 of us but it was indeed an enjoyable one. Well gals, hope that we can meetup more often.

Not much on knitting front. I've just started 2 new projects. I know I know its not me, to start 2 project at once. Its a wrap and a tank top. The wrap is quite and easy one. I'm knitting the Fiber Trends Estonian Garden Wrap with Zephyr in Sage shade. I'm now just knitting the repeats on the center section which is the Little Flowers Lace. The borders and edgings will be knitted last. At the moment it is very relaxing as I have to knit the repeats of 8 rows of lace. So I can actually knit this while watching TV. Well, this one will really take some time to finish as there are 41 repeats according to the instructions. I'm only on the 8 repeats now.

The tank top which consequently also is in a green shade. (since I can't think a name for it, I'm just going to name it Gatsby). This design is from one of the Keitodama Mag. Its pretty easy too. 8 rows of lace as well which by now I already memorize it by heart.

I think it will take me sometime to show you gals my next FO.

Thursday Blues

2006-06-29T19:46:00.000+08:00

I finally completed this project. This pattern is from the World of Knits (Summer) 2004. This is knitted with Sirdar 4 ply cotton in Sky Blue tone. Overall, this project is definately an interesting one. I only have some difficulty while doing the decreasing on the neckline. I just love knitting lace. Every time I see the pattern grow, I'm more eager to finish it.

Currently, I'm knitting another design from the same book. Well, its definately another lace top. I'll show more about it in my next post.

Blue Belle

2006-06-23T10:28:00.000+08:00

The yellow crochet top is heading to the frog pond. So, at the moment all crochet projects will be on hold. I'm back to knitting now.

I've started this project right after finish the Creamy Dress. I'm going to name this Blue Belle. I've completed the front and the back. I've just cast on the sleeve yesterday night. Even though, its a short sleeve, I think this will take a while. I have problems decreasing as I have to match the yarnovers with the decreases. If not knitting with full concentration I might end up with either an extra stitch or less stitches on the needle. I've been counting the stitches every time I've completed a row. I'm hoping that I can finish this by next week.

I'll report again on the progress soon.

Laverdar Is Now Creamy

2006-06-09T10:05:00.000+08:00

I think I have bad karma with Rowan 4 ply cotton. This is my 2nd attempt using Rowan 4 ply cotton. The first FO using this yarn was Orangina in Turquoise. The colour faded in spots randomly after even with 1 wash. After several washes it becomes worse. To avoid Orangina being trash in the bin I saved it by dyeing it. I dye it in Black to cover the Turquoise. It turns out not really that well but I still can wear Orangina now.

This bad luck happen again with Lavendar. While I was blocking it, I realised the colour faded again. This time around it is worse than Orangina. It faded to pink at certain parts of the dress (too bad I forgot to capture it in photo). Some spots is real big. I was really frustrated last few days just thinking about this and what I should do with it. Its like wasting the whole 8 ball of yarn and definately my EFFORTS. Hubby suggested I should complete seaming it and later find a way to solve the problem. The only idea that I got to solve this, is definately to dye it. Since the dress is in Lavendar, the only option I have is either to find the same shade or else dye it in darker shade to cover the colour (but I don't want this dress to be in black or maroon or any darker shade). Its kinda of hard to get dyeing supplies in my area but I got a bit of luck. Yesterday, while I was browsing thru in the Hardware Stores, I manage to find some Dylon dye and Dygon colour remover. I couldn't find the same shade though, but with the colour remover I was thinking to remove Lavendar and dye it again in a pinkish shade.

I successfully removed Lavendar and the dress now is in Creamy colours. At the moment, I'm thinking to leave it as it is in Cream. I think I like it better in this shade. At least now the dress is still wearable. Well come to think about it, I'm not that REALLY REALLY bad luck yah. The dress still survives and I'm even wearing it to work today.

Thats all about my bad karma and bad luck stories. Have a nice weekend everyone.

Ruffles Ruffles

2006-06-05T06:29:00.000+08:00

At last, presenting the ruffles shrug. I completed seaming it on Saturday night.

This project took up about 1 week plus to be completed. It's the 2nd successful crochet project, I supposed. Ruffles shrug is crochet using Online Java in Bleached. I've used up about 6 1/4 balls.

As for Lavendar, it is progressing well. I'm now at the shaping of armhole. Targetted to finish knitting it by the end of this week. Lets wait and see whether I will have another FO.

Progress Report

2006-06-02T07:28:00.000+08:00

Here's some progress report on crochet and knitting.

Ruffles Shrug is just waiting for seaming. Bad news is, I don't have enough yarn for the ruffles. I still have 3/4 balls and is definately not enough for the ruffles. I need to get another ball. Lets just wait and see whether I will have a new FO by this weekend.

Lavendar is progressing too. I manage to get some knitting done in the office recently and here's the progress as at on Friday morning. I hope I can finish this as soon as possible. I really almost can't stand it anymore. Like what Sally's say this is really a CRAZY PROJECT.

I'll be back soon.

Ruffles Shrug

2006-05-24T15:55:00.000+08:00

Thank you for all the supporting comments about my first ever dress. It really boost my knitting speed but then after knitting it for a while I got bored again. Now I'm on the 7th repeat of the cable pattern. I'm counting every now and then but sad to say I still got to knit another 5 repeat to reach the waist line. I don't think I can ever finish it by end of the month. Sigh.

I'm on leave yesterday and managed to visit Brenda. Of course I can't leave without getting some books and yarn. I bought 2 books on crochet from the Lets Knits Series. By just looking at the cover I know I must get these books (LOL).

Guess what, since getting the book I can't help myself from starting another project. Its another crochet project. This time its a ruffle shrug. After checking on Mimi's shrug I told myself I want to have one too. Well, since I'm no expert in crochet I'm now just worried that I might have trouble with the ruffles. Here's the progress so far. Its a fast one and hope to have another FO soon. Its feel like ages since my last FO.

Knitting & Crochet Too

2006-05-19T09:13:00.000+08:00

My knitting has been stagnant for a while. Knitting a dress is not really fun after all. After a while, I guess I got bored and it has been left aside. It did cross my mind to give up the whole project. Hubby insist that I'll keep it aside and start something else if it really bored me. Anyway I've finished the cables pattern and it will be such a waste of time if I really give up. So, I decided to leave it in my basket for a week.

Only last week, I decided to pick the dress up from from where I left it and start knitting again. Well, obviously the urge to complete it is faster this time. So by last Saturday I've successfully completed the back piece. Now, I only need to boost up my knitting speed to complete the whole project. Well, it still has a long way to go. So far, I've only completed knitting 4 out of 12 cables repeat.

While, I was not knitting I decided to try my hands on crochet again. Its one of the design in the Summer 2006 World of Knits. I managed to finish the back side as well. I'll continue with the front side once the knitted dress is complete.

Lavender

2006-04-28T06:38:00.000+08:00

I've just started this project on Tuesday. It still has a long way to go. I'm going to call this Lavender. I have to cast on 182 sts at the beginning. It really took me a while to complete a row. As it gets longer and with decreases, it is much faster now. I target to complete knitting this in a month. I wonder if I can stand it for so long. If not this might head to the frog pond as well.

Its a long weekend a head, hope that I can knit more. Have a nice weekend ladies.

April Leaves

2006-04-23T18:43:00.000+08:00

Leafy lace cable top is finally completed. I managed to seam and crochet the border this morning. I like it very much but DH thinks that this FO is a bit messy. He can't seem to find the leaves. How about you girls, can you all spot the leaves?

This FO should have finished earlier but because it got a bit boring. Well, at least now I managed to complete knitting it. It's knitted using 5 balls of Katia Capri cotton.

My next WIP, the diamond shawl is heading to the frog pond. I don't really like the colour of the yarn. I think its a bit pale and probably because I have knitted with it once. Well, probably I'll keep the yarn for future projects.

I've bought a knitting book sometime back from Brenda. The book is publish by Ondori and its call Summer Knit.

Here are a few designs that I like.

I'm attempting one of the design from the book (not the above). I will do a swatch and see how it goes. I'll post more about it in my next post.

P.S. : Handknit168, the diamond shawl is a japanese pattern. So sorry, I can't recall it is from which magazine.

Still Alive

2006-04-15T19:01:00.000+08:00

Thanks for everyone concerns. I'm feeling better now. I figure out my problem, I guess maybe its PMS as I'm feel very tense and moody. Well, I'm glad its over as last after missing it last month. As for work its still very tiring. The work load has increased with new tenants moving in. Business is moving and hope its pay off end of the year. Just hope that I'll get more bonus and increment.

On knitting, it's still progressing very slow. Even though leafy and cables top is not in plain stockinette stitch, l still find it boring. However, by this weekend I'm going to complete the back. I still have a few more rows to go.

I've started another project. Its a shawl. I've got the pattern from the LYS. I'm using the leftover yarn from my FBS, the Peruvian Baby Silk from Elann. I'm worried I might have problems with it later as I've have to do some crochet on the edge. I'll see how it will progress, worse come to worse I'll alter it to my own design or frog it.

I'll post more on the progress soon. Hope everyone will have a pleasure weekend and Happy Easter.

Leaves & Cables

2006-04-10T15:45:00.000+08:00

Life is full of ups and downs recently. Work and home just make me moody and tired. I find that my knitting time has been greatly reduced too. No FOs yet for the time being. Currently, I''m knitting a sleeveless top from a Japanese magazines. The progress is real slow. I guess one of the reason is because there more stitches on the needle hence it took more time to finish a row.

Well, I'll post more on the progress soon.

I Just Love Lace

2006-03-17T07:38:00.000+08:00

In my previous post I've forgotten to thank all the compliments for my Lacy Wrap Cardi. It has been pleasure reading all the comments and compliments. It really brightens up my day.

I'm done with the Blue Lace Top which I have modified from Keitodama Winter 2005. As mentioned earlier it is a fast knit. I've modified the sweater to a sleeveless top with crochet as the border.

While I was casting off the back piece, I realised that the armhole slightly small. I was quite worried that later it will turn out a bit tight. Thank god after blocking and with the crochet bother it fits nicely.

I have started another project while waiting to seam the Blue Lace Top. I'm sorry if I've bored you girls, its another lace stuff. This time it will be a Diamond Lace Shrug. Progressing slowly. The shrug is knitted with a Butterfly yarn in sand colour. So, I guess this will be a fast knit too. This is the pattern from the book published by Ondori I bought earlier titled "My Favourite Simple Sweaters"

Did you spot it? I've got my new Spring & Summer 2006 "World Of Knits". Yes its out. Compare to Keitodama Spring 2006 this series has more designs that suits my taste. I manage to choose a few designs I like and might knit in future. You got to really check it out. Not bad at all.

Here the few designs I like.

I hope I've got some progress on the shrug to blog in my next post. Till then have a nice weekend and happy knitting.

Another Lace

2006-03-11T11:53:00.000+08:00

Yes, it's another lace top. This time, I will modified this pattern from the Keitodama Winter 2006 (Sorry about the picture, probably you can't see the lace clearly). This will be knitted as a sleeveless top. Actually this is quite similar to Lelah. You can check out the pattern here.

I'm knitting this top with the Butterfly cotton yarn, Mona got for me sometime back. Its a fast knit as I'm using a 4.2mm needle. So far I've completed knitting the back portion and it is even block out already.

Well, back to knitting now. I'll blog again soon on the progress.

Lacy Wrap Cardi

2006-03-05T18:52:00.000+08:00

At last, presenting the Lacy Wrap Cardi. After almost 5 hours of seaming and knitting the border, I'm done with it. Overall, I'm quite satisfied with the result. Not too big and not too long too. This cardi took me almost 3 weeks to complete it. I've used 6 balls of Heirloom Cotton on size 4 (Clover Needle - Japanese size).

Actually, it was suppose to be a long sleeve cardi. As I was worried that I might not have enough yarn I've shorten it to a 3/4 sleeve. Probably this is better as our weather here with long sleeve will be too warm.

Well, I'm off to another project now. I'll update it in my next post.

Back On Track

2006-02-23T09:51:00.001+08:00

Thanks for everyone concern, the wrap lace cardi, I have frog it and reknit again. Both the front is completed. One side even block already and the other is on the blocking board now. I have more time to knit this week as the "BOSS" is not around. As the chinese says, "I've got time to snake around".

Yesterday, while I was browsing at the newstand in my office block I found a knitting magazine name "Knit It". Nothing interesting about this magazine but I'm just hooked to the shrug on the cover page and of course I can't resist the price of the magazine. I'm wondering whether they have the wrong price tag because I got it for only RM9.00. For me, I think is kinda of cheap for an international magazine. I'm clueless on this as I saw the price on the cover stated USD5.99 so it could not be possible that this magazine will cost RM9.00 per copy. Well, nevermind about that.

Another knitting book I got during the Chinese New Year holiday. Its a chinese knitting book (I think originated from Taiwan). There are a few design in this books that attracts me to it. All the pattern in this book is knitted in the round and from the top. I can't read or understand chinese, I've tried to ask hubby to explain but I don't think he can help me too. He was saying he is clueless on knitting terms. Well, I'm just going to do some guessing on the graph and diagram if I ever want to knit it. Probably, I'll try out a few of the simple ones once I'm done with the lace wrap cardi. it just looks so tempting (minus the looks of the models).

Something Went Wrong

2006-02-17T15:05:00.000+08:00

I was so happy when at last I finish knitting one side of the front panel. Its been quite sometime I knitted one side of it. I feel like it took me ages to finish one side.

When I was about to cast off the stitches, I realised there are a few of odd stitches on the centre lace. That's when I realised I made some errors on the lace. I think I have knitted some rows wrongly. Well, at first I try to ignore it but I don't think I can leave it unattended. Its pretty obvious and worse still this is the front. To make things worse from a far I still can spot the mistake. I don't think I can leave it unattended.

Conclusion is, I have to frog it and reknit again. This is really frustrating.

Will it FIT me?

2006-02-10T11:36:00.000+08:00

One side of the Keito wrap cardi is done. It is now laying on the blocking board. While I was blocking it i realized it lengthen by 1 inch. I meant to knit it at 20" and now after blocking, it lengthen another inch more. I hope it will fits me fine. Do you think next time when knitting with cotton I should shorten it by one inch from my desire length?

Anyhow, I hope after washing and drying in the dryer it will be shorten to the desire length. I've been doing this for quite sometime, as whenever after washing all the knitting garment will stretch a bit, and each time after a few rounds in the dryer I find it be back to the original size which is before blocking or washing. I've only try this with cotton blends.

I'll post again soon as there is some progress. Me myself can't wait to see myself in it. Hopes it turns out well.

P/s : Mimi, the lace on the body turn outs wider than the bottom lace, but luckily so far its not that really big, my real concerns is still the length.

Another Tagged - The Oddball Meme

2006-02-08T15:44:00.000+08:00

This is the oddball meme which I was tagged by Laura.

***Ground Rules: The first player of this "game" starts with the topic "5 weird habits of yours" and people who get tagged need to write a blog entry about their 5 quirky habits as well as state this rule clearly. In the end, you need to choose the next 5 people to be tagged and list their names.***

I'm not sure whether this is call weird but I like to shop alone most of the time as I will get to browse what I fancy only. That way I will only shop and browse thru the stores which I'm interested. Well, sometimes I do let hubby tagged along (which is when I need him to pay for my stuff, LOL).
Most of the time the knit wear I knitted, I only wore it in the office I seldom wear it during my outings which is weird I think.
At home, I like to wet my feets. Hubby always says that I have "Duck Legs". Everytime after each visits to the loo, I will have my feet wet.
I don't wear sport shoes. Probably because I don't like sports. You will not find any sport shoes in my shoe rack.
I have this weird habit, whenever I fancy something I will normally want it immediately. The most I will wait for a day but I don't think I can stand it for more than the ONE day. This is probably one of the bad habits I inherit from mom (which sometimes hubby really can't tolerate it).

Phew, at last I've done both meme. Its kinda of hard to do up this Oddball Meme, cause I think normally one don't realise that its odd as we might think that it is part of our life till another told you so.

Tagged

2006-02-08T14:57:00.000+08:00

As mentioned in my earlier post, I've been tagged by June. Here it is.

Four jobs you have had in your life:
1. Admin Clerk
2. Stenographer
3. Marketing Executive
4. Senior Secretary

Four (random) movies you could watch over and over:
I seldom goes to the movies, therefore I don't have any favourite movies.

Four places you have lived:
I was born in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and leave here ever since.

Four TV shows you love to watch:
1. Friends
2. C.S.I.

Four places you have been on vacation:
1. Most of the states in Malaysia except Sabah & Sarawak
2. Singapore
3. Phuket

Four websites you visit daily:
1. Knitters Community
2. My email, hotmail
3. All the knitters blogs listed here

Four of your favorite foods:
1. Steam Boat
2. Baskin Robins ice cream
3. Amos chocolate chip cookies
4. Cashew nuts

Four places you would rather be right now:
1. SPA for a full body massage
2. Hong Kong
3. Japan
4. Yarn store ( I want more yarn)

Four Bloggers you are tagging:
This time around I'm not tagging anyone.

Back Again With 2 FOs

2006-02-06T20:17:00.000+08:00

I'm back and hope that it is not too late to wish everyone a Happy New Year and Gong Xi Fa Cai.

Its been two months since my last post. I'm just too lazy to post but I've been knitting. Before the year 2005 ended I've completed knitting another corset in Jaeger Trinity Flamenco. Even though this is the second knit, I don't feel boring at all. This is really a very interesting knit as I normally don't knit one pattern twice.

Sometimes I find it very hard to find a new pattern to knit. Too many nice ones till I can't decide which one to knit first. I've bought another new japanese knitting book (I'll post about the book in my next post) Even though its for winter but I really love the designs. I even choose one of it. Its just a plain stockinette long sleeve cardi which I modified it to 3/4 sleeves. This time around I use Rowan Cash Cotton in Chintz. Total yarn use for the cardi is about 4++ balls.

At the moment, I'm knitting another japanese pattern. Its from the Keitodama 2003 (Series No. 120), pattern no. 19. Well, its just another wrap cardi but with lace. With the hot weather in Malaysia, I think I will have to modified it again to a 3/4 sleeves. I've just started this during the long Chinese New Year Holiday (as I am still on leave now). Cross my fingers I hope I can complete this cardi. I'm just worried that I will get stuck with this pattern as I can't understand very well the Japanese instructions. The progress so far, I'm into arm hole shaping for the back piece.

I'll post again with some new progress soon.

P/S : I've been tagged by Laura and June. Girls, I promised to post soon.

Corset

2005-12-07T19:01:00.000+08:00

I've been busy working and knitting this pass one week. The result is this, Corset. This is a very challenging knit indeed. I've learned a lot of from knitting this i.e. in I-Cord cast on and bind off. Finish knitting this in two weeks. I'm satisfied with it after all the hard work. This was knitted with Jaeger Trinity in Hibiscus which was a birthday present from Vanessa. Thanks Van. I only used less than 2 balls for this corset. I still have a ball, which I still got no idea what to do with it. Any idea girls?

Here you are me in corset.

Mini Project

2005-11-20T03:11:00.000+08:00

Thank you so much for all the compliment on the Madli's shawl. Now, I have more confident to knit up another shawl in the near future.

Not much knitting has been done in the past one week. I only managed to knit up a small cable bag. This is my first time knitting a bag actually. I struggle a bit to get the exact size for the bag as the cable actually shrink the size of the bag. But luckily I got some advise from Laura.

The bag is knitted with 2 balls of Hamanaka wool on needle size 5.5mm. Its a fast knit, and actually took about couple of hours to knit up. Well, whatI can say is the bag is in time for a friend's wedding dinner this weekend. Do you think this is suitable?

Thats all for now, I got to check my stash and decide what to knit up next.

Deeply Madli's In Love

2005-11-08T02:10:00.000+08:00

You can say that I'm deeply in love with Madli's. Even without the nupps, it turns out nice. A little dissapoinment, the width is not wide enough. As mentioned in my earlier post, I only have 2 skeins of Alpacca Cloud. As a result, I did less one repeat from the original pattern. The width after fully blocked turns out at about 17" only. Despite all this, I still deeply in love with Madli's.

I never thought that I can finish it this fast. I estimate that I will complete it by the 15th November after delaying it for about a week when I was side track to some other stuff. Overall, this pattern is pretty easy to knit. But because of the fuzziness of alpacca, sometimes its a bit difficult to spot the mistake.

I'll post soon again on the updates of next project. Stay tune.

Side Track

2005-11-01T01:30:00.000+08:00

Look what I have knitted for the last one week. An eyelet rib cardi from Rebecca. This was knitted with Rowan Cash Cotton in Sea Foam. I knit up the cardi slightly longer from the recommended length as I have a longer waist line. Now I'm a bit anxious as I feel it is too long. What do you think? For this project I use up about 3.5 balls.

I know I have been bad, I was suppose to finish the Madli's Shawl but I just can't stop the temptation after seeing Vanessa's cardi. Anyhow, it took me about a week to finish it. I think I still have enough time for Madli's Shawl.

During the weekend while I was browsing at the shopping mall, I bought some flowers pins. I might try to make some flowers pins in future but now I just can't stop myself from getting these flowers pins. Isn't it lovely?

Well till then, happy knitting everyone.

Patient

2005-10-15T04:32:00.000+08:00

Thanks for all the compliments on the VK Bolero. Too bad I don't get to wear it out. I have given it to one of my close friend. I hope bolero will fits her well and she will like it.

I've started another new project. This time is the Madli's Shawl from IK Summer 2004. I'm knitting it with Knitpicks Alpacca Cloud in Sand colour tone. I've only 2 skeins of this yarn and the pattern requires about 1,000m of lace weight yarn, so I guess I won't have enough of yarn. As a result, I have to omit the Nupp in the pattern and replace it with just a stockinnette stitch instead.

Knitting this shawl with alpacca cloud is really testing my patient (I'm a very impatient person). Whenever I knit something I will love to see the outcome immediately. But with the lace on alpacca cloud, I can't really see much out of it. You can judge for yourself, not tempting at all.

I wanted badly to see how it will turns out after blocking so I decided to block out one of the border. As I have not enough yarn, I knitted both the border first so that I don't have to worry how much yarn to be save for the border. I don't want to waste my time to knit up something I don't like later on. So here is the block border, turns out smoothly don't you think?

Well, still a long way to go before the end, hope that I have enough yarn and I can complete it before end of next month (before my birthday). At least I have a FO to compliment myself on my birthday.

A Productive Day

2005-10-03T08:30:00.000+08:00

Ta-da, presenting the Lace Trim Bolera from VK Spring & Summer 2005. Yes, I finally managed to finish it yesterday. Knitted continuously for almost 10 hours. Believe it, I sat and knit the whole day seaming and knitting the lace edging. At last its all done up. Isn't she beautiful, decorated with the lacey edging.

Knitted-up with almost balls of Katia Nilo (white) on size 5 Clover needle. I use up almost 3/4 of a ball just for the lace. Can't believe it myself that the lace edging will use up so much yarn. A very interesting knit on the edging as you will have to knit up the lace edging and sew it on the outer edge as you knit.

Well, want to see me posing with bolera.

Overall, the FO fitted out well. This is my first FO using Katia Nilo. It is so nice to knit with, non-splitting at all, light weight and it has some sheen on it too. I can't wait to finish Snowy another project using the same yarn. I hope that it will turn out as good as Bolera. I still have to finish 2 more sleeves for Snowy.

White As Paper

2005-09-29T05:23:00.000+08:00

I started another new project. It's from the VK Spring Summer 2005, the Lace Trim Bolera. This time around it's in white. I knitted the Bolera with Katia Nilo. I find the stockinette stitch to be very relaxing. You don't need full concentration when doing stockinette stitch. Bolerais fast knit as its plain stockinette stitch and only some lace at the edging. So here is the sleeve.

At first, by looking at the photo in the magazine I thought it is a crochet edging. This is the first time I'm doing this type of edging. I'm learning something new again.

(Here is the closeup of the lace)

I've finish knitting the back, fronts and sleeves. I just need to block one more side of the sleeve before starting seaming. Yah I'm hoping I can seam up this weekend and sew in the outer edge by this week.

What I should knit next? Probably I better finish Snowy and Hearty Lace before I started with new projects.

I'm Tagged

2005-09-29T03:30:00.000+08:00

Well, I have never done a MeMe before. This is my first time as I have been tagged by Yuvee.

Ten Years Ago
Hmmm... I'm in my early twenties 10 years ago. Still staying with my parents, got my driving license and started dating with hubby. I remember I've changed jobs quite often back then. Trying to find the most suitable job. Well, I did find one at last which last me till today. This year is my 10 year of service in the company. Wow... I'm that long in this company, couldn't believe it myself too.

Five Years Ago
Engaged with hubby 5 years ago. And of course we bought our 1st apartment and I got myself a kitty too. Baby is 5 years old already. Time really flies. It seems only yesterday all this happen.

One Year Ago
Well this is hard even its only recently, we moved into our new apartment and I have to adapt to leaving together with hubby, doing everything by myself which includes cooking and washing. I'm the youngest in the family, and of course I'm pampered all the while, everything is done by Mom. Mom is always the Greatest. Even though moving out means more freedom but at times I still find it hard as I feel I has less time doing the things I like to do. Now, I have to devote more time for house chores and that is one of the reason too why I'm not having a real baby.

Five Favourite Snacks
I'm kinda hooked to Tirimisu lately, chocolates, chocolate chip cookies, cheezels,

Five Songs I Know All The Words To
I think none that I know all the wordings, probably part of it i.e. SuperWoman and songs by The Carpentar.

Five Things I Would Do With $100 Million
Wow, thats a dream to me I guess. But if really I have that, I' probably get Hubby a new 4-Wheel Drive, helping my parents and real close friends, buying all the yarns that I can get my hands on, setting up a yarn store, vacation around the world (probably the list wont end with 5 things if I really have that amount of money).

Five Places To Run Away To
I would like to be in the beautiful island of Maldives, the adventures Africa, the ever exiciting Japan, Korea and France.

Five Things I Would Never Wear
This is tough, never really thought about it. I dont think I will attempt wearing bikini, tight pants, fishnet stocking and baggy pants.

Five Favourite TV Shows
I love watching HK Chinese Drama, Korean Movies, CSI, Desperate Housewife and Xfiles.

Five Biggest Joys
Hmmm... I guess my biggest joys will be learning to knit and getting to know all the knitters around the world, engaged to my hubby, learning to cook (not just only eggs and instant mee), having my pet Baby and shopping for more yarn and knitting supplies.

Favourite Toys
I guess I'm not a toy person. I cant seem to think of any toys that I like except that I do like soft toys a lot (especially teddy bears).

Five Things To Do, Just For Me, Before I Die
I would definately would like to travel around the world, more time with hubby, selling my knitting stuff and be able to set up my own yarn shop.

People To Pass This On To
I would like to pass this on to Eva, Jackie and Mimi (no obligation)

Vintage Shrug Malaysian Version

2005-09-19T03:13:00.000+08:00

Well, I have been a bad girl, starting another project before the other WIP are done yet. I just can't resist the temptation of knitting myself the UO Shrug after seeing Vanessa's version. Well this is my version. Its knitted with a DK cotton. Normally I seldom did a swatch, but for UO shrug I have to swatch for the gauge almost 4 or 5 times and froggin about twice. I can't seem to get the right gauge. At least the outcome is not that bad I hope.

Its pretty heavy though, about 350g as I used up almost 7 balls of it (especially on the colar its really warm). Guess this outfit I can only wear it in the office. For my version I've used a brooch to decorate it. Any idea, does it look nice with the brooch there? I got myself some other brooch too. Which one do you think suits better?

Well before I go, here is UO and Me.

Happy Mooncake Festival .

Surprises From SP

2005-09-06T03:33:00.000+08:00

At last, package from my SP, Lia arrived. I was very happy to receive this package. She send me a felted tote (which I like the most), 3 balls of variegated yarn in turquiose, a crochet pattern book, hand cream and some candies. Thanks Lia. Guess, on my list now should be finding a pattern for the variegated yarn.

Besides that, I've started another project. The Hearty Lace is on hold at the moment. Well, it got to be another lace. Here it is.

Still without a name. How about Snowy since its white. This is my first project in white and I can tell you I'm pretty careful with it, wont want it to get black before I get the chance to wear it.

Mini Sweater

2005-08-28T01:11:00.000+08:00

After struggling a while, at last Mini Sweater is done. Anyone wants to have a quick satisfaction out of knitting should try this, Mini Sweater. Normally, I don't like to knit with circulars, but with this project circulars really works miracle. I finish these in almost 4 days using some DK cotton yarn bought from the LYS. Total use up is almost 4 balls. Actually, I wanted to do some crochet borders, but I got to get another extra balls for that. So, I will leave the crochet borders for this Mini Sweater. I think I would do a few more of this Mini Sweater maybe in various colours since its a quick knit.

When its, lying flat it looks kind of big. But when I put it on it suits me well. I just love this outfit.

Mini Sweater

2005-08-26T02:42:00.000+08:00

As mentioned in my previous post, I attempted the Mini Sweater pattern from Glampyre Knits . Normally. I knit from Japanese pattern books. So, with this pattern I got problems with the increases. Luckily, Vanessa is there to lend me a helping hands. Thanks Van.

The progress, I'm knitting the body now. I was hoping that I can finish this before the weekend. I'll post the FO once I'm done with it (provided it looks nice on me). LOL.

On The Knitting Needles

2005-08-24T07:22:00.000+08:00

What have I been doing lately? I'm not in anyway buzy, but just lazy to blog. Actually I was thinking to give up blogging. Sigh, guess I will leave this blog on and will post when I'm in the mood like now.

Currently on the knitting needles, is this lacy top which I decided to name it Hearty Lace Top. The pattern is taken from the Keitodama Summer 2005. It is knitted with Nizza which I got from Cara. The progress is pretty slow now. Is this colour too bright for me?

Besides that I also started another mini project which is the Minisweater. After looking at Vanessa's minisweater, it really inspired me to knit one for myself too. I'll try to post a photo soon.

Secret Pal Package

2005-07-28T01:37:00.000+08:00

Just a short update today.

I've receive the package from my Secret Pal last week. Only now I can find the time to update on it. So sorry Secret Pal. What a surprise, the package arrived within 2 weeks. My Secret Pal is from Brazil, land of all the happy people.

As you can see here, Secret Pal send me 2 CDs and a shopping bag. According to her, the 2 singers is very popular in Brazil. Although, I don't understand it, but I find it to be very relaxing. For the shopping bag, I just loved it. It's so colourful and furthermore what other better ways to use it then carry all my knitting stuff in it. Thank you so much Secret Pal, Lia.

No project update at the moment, because I'm quite demotivated for the time being. I'm thinking of frogging Rosey as I find it rather big and heavy. I'll update again soon.

Bias Shrug

2005-07-16T01:35:00.000+08:00

I've finished knitting Bias. Took me almost a week to complete it. Here is Bias being blocked.

Yesterday, I try to seam it up. Bias need to be seam at the centre using Kitchener Stitch. Luckily, I managed to seam it. Just seaming the centre part took me about 1.5 hours. By the time I seam up the sleeves, its already 10.30pm.

This morning, I persuade hubby to snap some pictures of me in Bias. Here it is,

So, its all done up. Now, headache for me, I'm still scratching my head on what should I do next. I'm still undecided yet on what to knit. Too many pattern to choose.

Orangina

2005-07-13T01:02:00.000+08:00

Here you are, presenting Orangina. At last I managed to post the photo (me not good in modelling).

Orangina took me about 1 week to finish. This is an easy pattern. I would recommend for those beginners in lace. I can even knit this lace when I'm driving during traffic. I think that is why I can finish it fast. By using Rowan 4 ply cotton (186m), its yarn saving too. I only used 3 balls for the XS size (103 sts) on 3mm needles.

Now, I'm off to another project. I'm trying my hands on knitting shrugs. I've choosen the IK Spring 2005, Bias. Here is the progress so far.

I'm knitting this with Online Sandy. The measurement in the instructions is way to big for my size. I've to figure out the measurement for my size.

A New Look

2005-07-08T06:14:00.000+08:00

I took a day off yesterday for my ENT Follow-Up Consultation and to run some personal errands. Gosh, time really passes by fast. I woke up as usual at about, did some usual house work and off to the hospital. You know, when you need to seek consultation in a Government Hospital, you ought to be early. I reached the hospital at about 8.00am, waited 2 hours for my turn and another half and hour for dispensing of medication. Long yah, thats what I do every 4 or 6 months as I need to consult that particular ENT specialist. Not that I can't seek consultation from some other private doctor but it seems only with this ENT specialist my problem will solve. So guess, I have to be very patient every 4 or 6 months to seek medication.

After that, run a few errands and off to home at about 1.00pm as I got appointment with the Curtain Installer. Yah, you heard me right. Not that I shifted to another new house. Its just what we call it UPGRADING, lol. When first moving in, we only do some basic stuff. DH always says do just what we needed which I always disagree. For me, I rather do everything before moving in to avoid any problem later on. So, basically previously we just install normal curtain tracks (got it from IKEA) which we install it ourselves.

I waited for the installer, for almost 2 hours. This is really what we call MALAYSIAN TIME MANAGEMENT. Guess yesterday is really a WAITING DAY for me. Anyhow, I was quite surprise, the installer managed to install everything in 45minutes. Thats fast.

So see the transformation, this is only the Living. Couldnt post the photo in the bedrooms, cos the camera out of battery.

TO

On knitting, I have managed to finish knitting ORANGINA, no photos yet as I need to charge the battery. So, me off to another project, havent started yet but I'm planning this, its the BIAS from the IK Spring 2005 issue.

Hope to get started soon.

Progress On Orangina

2005-07-05T01:38:00.000+08:00

This is the preview of Orangina. I've started it on 1st July. It is knitted with Rowan 4 Ply Cotton in turquoise. I hope the colour is not too bright for me. This is the progress on Saturday morning.

I got some free time during work on Saturday and I knitted more. The whole of Saturday nite was spent knitting Orangina. And by Sunday evening I've finished knitting one side. Now my fingers are aching with all the long hours on knitting. I really knit to finish-up fast since I'm so motivated now.

You must have noticed why did I do the ribbing on the first piece as the pattern calls for knitting in the round for the ribbing. I dont really like knitting in the round and decided to knit up Orangina in two piece and seam it later. I hope that it will turn out fine with this idea.

Crochet FO

2005-07-02T13:41:00.000+08:00

This is my first crochet FO. I have tried crocheting a few times before, but all is failure. Most of time I will just frog out the whole thing. This time around I manage to finish the whole project.

Presenting my first crochet top. Not really a tough one for a beginner like me.

I will definately crochet another top but not now. Now, I'm going to start knitting ORANGINA which is next on the list. At last 1st July is here, and I can start knitting ORANGINA. I'm knitting it with Rowan 4 ply cotton in bright blue colour. I have cast on and progressing slowly. l will try to post some pictures soon.

New Storage Space

2005-06-29T13:05:00.000+08:00

It has been almost two weeks since I last post. Nothing much to report on knitting.

My DH recently bought me a cabinet for storing my stash and books. Now I can display my stash and can find what I want easily. Luckily, after storing every ball of yarn I have in this see through cabinet, DH did not make any comment on the quantity of stash that I have got. Actually, looking at it, its not that much. LOL.

At last I manage to complete the crochet top after so many attempt. I have not taken any photos yet. I will try to post it this week. Next project, will be ORANGINA which I'm going to knit along with KL Knitters and SG Knitters which will start on 1st July.

Addicted To Crochet

2005-06-11T14:00:00.000+08:00

I think I'm addicted to crochet. Since I saw this book at one of the LYS, I was drooling over it.

I was lucky, Brenda the owner managed to get a copy for me. A lot of nice crochet shawl and tops in it. The crochet top I'm doing now is actually one of the pattern in it.

A few other tops that I might want try out. So many stuff to knit and crochet, yet so little time.

Those interested on shawls, they have a lot of variety too. But my favourites are these(not sure whether I will be doing it but it just make me happy by looking at this pictures).

Till then, have a nice weekend everyone.

Update On WIP

2005-06-09T09:13:00.000+08:00

I have not been blogging for quite sometime now. Not much progress on knitting and crochet, that's why I didn't post much. I haven't start any new projects since the last Kiri Shawl. I have been tempted to start something new, but I just need to finish all the UFO. I just can't stand seeing them in my knitting bag, so I got to really ignored all this temptation.

On the progress, I have finished knitting the Rosey (except the seaming and the borders). I'm now blocking it. You can see rosey lying wet on the blocking board. Remember the crochet the one I'm working on. (I think I mentioned this in my earlier post). That too, I have finish 1 side. Progressing slowly on the other piece. Sorry on the photo, its not that clear. I still can't figure out how this digi-cam works.

Beside that, I did some purchase on Ebay and I got this. Its just some Jaeger Sienna. I wanna knit or crochet a top. Tempted to do crochet with it and wonder if it will turn out nice.

Thats all for now. Happy knitting.

Secret Pal 5 Questionnaire

2005-06-06T12:58:00.000+08:00

Are you a yarn snob (do you prefer higher quality and/or natural fibers)? Do you avoid Red Heart and Lion Brand? Or is it all the same to you.
I prefer cotton blend yarn as it will be more suitable with the weather here in Malaysia. I have not tried Red Heart and Lion Brand as it is not available in this part of the world.
Do you spin? Crochet?
I don’t spin but I do some crochet. I’m attempting to crochet a top at the moment.
Do you have any allergies?
Not really allergic to any fiber, but I don’t really like smoke or strong perfume cause I do have Allergic Rhintis.
How long have you been knitting?
I have been knitting for almost 5 years now.
Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
I don’t have an Amazon or other wish list because I can’t really figure out what I really one. When I see something nice I just fell in love.
What’s your favourite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.)
My favourite scent should be Lavender and any sweet fruits scents such as orange, dewberry, strawberry etc.
Do you have a sweet tooth?
I adore chocolates (not white chocolates) especially those with nuts.
What other crafts or Do-It Yourself things do you like to do?
Currently only actively doing knitting and crochet. I might try my hands on beading if I can find the time.
What kind of music to you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3 (if you buddy wants to make you a CD)
I like more to sentimental and love songs. No preferable on singers as long as it is nice. Definitely no rock music for me.
What’s your favourite color? Or do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer? Any colors you just can’t stand?
I love pastel colors, such as pink and sea blue, lavender (any pastel colors) I don’t really like bright colors such as orange or bright red.
What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
There are only 3 of us in the family, just a small one (me and my hubby and not forgetting my pet kitty, Baby)
What are your life dreams?
I will like to have my own yarn shop. Have all those nice yarn I can knit and if possible more time to knit too.
What is/are your favourite yarn/s to knit with?
Don’t really have preferable on this, as long as the yarn is easy to knit and doesn’t splits. Not forgetting something suitable for Malaysia weather which is warm.
What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
Arcylics
What is/are your current knitting obssession/s?
I like lacey and cables stuff. With lace or cables I can really concentrate and not get bored too fast.
What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
I love to knit tank top which is wearable in Malaysia.
What are you knitting right now?
I’m knitting and crocheting a top at the moment
What do you think about ponchos?
Would love to try to knit them, but I think I wouldn’t have a chance to wear it here in Malaysia because the weather here might be to warm for ponchos.
Do you prefer straight or circular needles?
Definitely would be straight needles
Bamboo, aluminium, plastic?
Most of my needles are bamboos. Bamboos is easy to grip and not slippery too.
Are you a sock knitter?
I’m not a sock knitter and I don’t think I will ever try to knit a pair of sock.
How did you learn to knit?
I learn knitting from my mom and some are self-taught by referring to books and websites.
How old is your oldest UFO?
My oldest UFO is about 4 months (not really that old). Normally, I will finish one FO before I start another one. I don’t really like to see my UFO lying around.
What is your favourite animated character or a favourite animal/bird?
I love dolphins
What is your favourite holiday?
I love to visit Japan yarn shop if ever get the chance.
Is there anything that you collect?
Not into collection. Does yarn stashing considered as collection too. My yarn stash is getting bigger.
What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
Previously I did subscribe Vogue Knitting, but recently I have stop because now it is available in the book store. But I do love to have Interweave Knits as it is hard to find a copy here.
Any books out there you are dying to get your hands on?
Would really like to get a copy of Scarf Style.

Ups and Downs

2005-05-13T10:33:00.000+08:00

I have been very busy this few weeks and times really fly fast. Now is already May. Lots have happened in my life lately. First of all, my grandma (in chinese we call PoPo) has fallen sick. She has been admitted to the hospital twice for Alzheimer and Pneumonia. PoPo pass away last Tuesday nite at 11.30pm at the age of 87. Before that PoPo was also attacked by stroke twice and fell into coma. PoPo pass away without regaining consciousness. I felt sad that she has pass away, but glad that God took her away, cos I know she is suffering although she is in coma. We can’t do anything to help her. She really looks helpless. The funeral took place last Saturday. Before that we held prayers for her in Chinese traditional way for 2 nites. Anyway, I hope PoPo will find happiness in her other life.

Enough about all those sad stories.

On knitting, have not been doing anything lately. With the funeral and the other things, I can’t really find time to knit. But I did mention in my earlier post, that I’m doing some crochet. Here’s the preview on the progress and a closeup on the pattern.

Its just a simple top. It took me ages to crochet it to this stage. I frog twice. I can’t seem to get to the right measurement. It’s really different from knitting which we can adjust the measurement easily. The other thing is the tension. My tension tends to differ from each line. At least now, I am able to control a bit. I still have about 3’’ to the shaping of the shoulder. Previously, all my crocheting is a failure, this time around I hope I don’t give up. Luckily I have encouragement and a helping hand from Brenda.

(This is the close-up of the pattern)

I don't have a proper photo for the KIRI, I get my hubby to shot a pic of me in KIRI sometime back. It doesn't look so good though.

Thats all for now, Happy Knitting.

Completed KIRI

2005-04-23T03:17:00.000+08:00

KIRI Updates

The knitting is all done and so is the blocking out. I managed to finish knitting it on Wednesday night. It turns out quite large as I repeated the pattern 12 times excluding the top and edging.

Here is how it looks like before blocking. All the edges is curl-up.

After blocking it the width turns out to about 60 inches wide. And here’s how it looks like on the blocking board. All the pointy edges straighten out.

WIP Updates

Trying my luck again on crocheting. It seems that the Apple Green Top is a failure. So for this new project, not showing anything yet until I progress a bit. Crocheting is really coming back and wish that I can manage crochet as well as knitting. As for now the progress on the project slow compare with knitting, how I wish that I can do it as fast as knitting.
Not much progress on Rosey. At the moment I am into the shaping of the neckline. I still have about 3 to 4 inch to knit-up the front side. Really hope that I can complete knitting it up as soon as possible, as it has been pending quite sometime. It is lying in my knitting bag, begging me to finish it, but I’m just not in the mood to progress further.

I going out to grab a quick lunch. Hope to see you all soon.

KIRI Shawl Along

2005-04-15T01:59:00.000+08:00

Been progressing slowly with KIRI. Actually KIRI is too shy to show herself as it is knitted with some cheap yarn. After some encouragement from Laura, KIRI decided to show herself.

Presenting KIRI;

As mentioned in Jackie’s blog, a few of us who is doing the KIRI Shawl Along with the Rowan KSH decided to give up on the KSH. I’m one of them. I prefer something that can drape and not too light and I think personally I don't really like mohair. It’s just not my kind of yarn. I don’t have any problem knitting with KSH, just that I don’t really like the feeling sticking to my fingers. Luckily Vanessa decided to bought it off me, otherwise KSH will be sitting in my stash.

Went to one of the LYS with Jacki e and Vanessa last Saturday during our meetup, and bought some Jaeger yarn. Initially, I started the KIRI with the Jaeger. I was into the 2nd repeat when I realised that the Jaeger is not so soft. I wanted something soft and cooling for my KIRI.

I decided to knit-up another KIRI with the other odd ball I bought, which is the DMC Petra, 100% mercerized cotton, 400+/-metres. The yarn is very fine and actually has to be knitted on a 2.5mm needle, but I decided to use the 3.5mm needle instead, as KIRI is lacey so the gauge doesn’t really matters. Surprisingly its turn out nice. Something I prefer at last. Malaysia is a tropical country, we don’t have snow in this part of the world. So, with DMC Petra, at least my KIRI can be use all year long. Furthermore, if 1 ball is enough for the KIRI, then my KIRI will cost me less that RM50.00.

On the progress wise, I’m into the 8 repeats at the moment. Most probably I have to add in a few more repeats to get to the right length and width. I plan to knit-up 12 repeats before starting the edging pattern. More stitches on the needle now and in order to finish 1 round took me ages. Sigh… Planning to get it blocked out this weekend, if everything turns out fine.

Till then happy knitting everyone.

Going Slowly

2005-04-06T00:32:00.000+08:00

Just a short update.

I've started to knit the Kiri Shawl last weekend. Using a Rowan Kid Silk Haze in Dewberry for this project.

Rip it a few times and nearly give up the whole project. The Rowan KSH keep on sticking to my fingers. It is really a challenge for me with this yarn. I try it up again yesterday nite and guess what I got it. Here.... (not too clear though).

I've got to get back to work now.

See ya!

A Quick Project

2005-04-05T03:32:00.000+08:00

This is a really quick project. 3 balls within 24 hours. It's a simple garter stitch scarf. Knitted with the Online Como, which is furry. Nice to touch, so soft. I still need 1 more balls to complete this project.

I got my Vogue Knitting at last. Everybody is so excited about this Spring and Summer issue. Still dont have the time to go through it, but have a peak at it yesterday and saw some lovely scarf project which I might want to try it out.

Till then, happy knitting.

Flower Basket Shawl - Conclusion

2005-03-31T15:49:00.000+08:00

As promised, presenting FBS. Finally, all block-out. It is all smooth with all the pointy edges. Have a look.

Flower Basket Shawl - Part 2

2005-03-31T03:40:00.000+08:00

I've finished knitting the FBS yesterday nite. Immediately blocked it. Its too huge, so I have to lay it on a cardboard. The photo looks a bit murky there, forgive me. I uses about 3.5 balls of the Peruvian Baby Silk as I add-in a few more repeats to the original pattern. I wanted something bigger so that I can wrap it in around my shoulder. With the weather in KL a bit cooling, I think the shawl will be in good use. Its really freezing here in my office.

Its a simple shawl and actually I should have completed it much more earlier if not of the wrong gauge. Anyway its done now, I have to wait and see after the blocking whether the edges will smooth out nicely.

Here's the close-up on the edges (I really love the edges)

A few of us, KL Knitters are doing a Kiri Shawl Along. Hope that it will go on smoothly. Waiting eagerly for the Rowan KSH to arrive so that we can start soon.

So for the time being, I think I should get back to Rosey. I missed her so much. Rushing to finish-up FBS and I realised that I've neglected her. Must get back to her soon. Its almost 2 months now and Rosey is still not done yet. Bad Bad Girl... I think I better finished up Rosey before I start another new project.

Thats all for now, will update again soon after FBS is block-out.

Cheers.

Flower Basket Shawl

2005-03-22T15:16:00.000+08:00

I'm back, I've been hibernating and at last I'm back. This past 2 weeks, I've attend 2 knitting meetup. New friends and new inspiration too. There are now six of us and hopefully more will join our group. I have also enhanced my collection of yarns. There are now 3 balls of Online Eyelash Como in pastel blue in the family. I intend to knit a garter scarf with this eyelash yarn, yummy yummy.

I got a surprise news from my best friend in Penang today. Guess what, she is getting married this November. As a gift for her I'm going to knit her another garter scarf too using the same Online Eyelash. She chooses pastel pink something to match her evening gown. So, will have to get more eyelash yarn. I have to get it knit-up before May to make it for the shooting of her wedding photos.

I've started another new project. Its the Flower Basket Shawl knitted with the Peruvian Baby Silk. Rip out a few times before I can get it right. Here's the progress so far. I'm into the 3 repeat of the Lower pattern. Hope I can get it right. Does it seem to you a bit short in length as I'm into the third repeat or is it only after blocking I can get the correct length ? Have to wait and see I guess.

Thats about it for the time being. Its late now, have to get some sleep it's will be an early day for me tomorrow.

See ya.

Apple Green Top

2005-03-02T11:55:00.000+08:00

I took a day off today as I have to attend an appointment with the ENT specialist (did I mentioned before that I have allergic rhintis). Every 3 or 6 months I have to consult my ENT. Nothing serious at the moment. I have to watch my diet cos once I have problem with my throat the problem will occur again.

Enough about that, back to my work in progress. I'm crocheting a top at the moment. I uses some leftover thread from my previous project. Hopefully, it is enough. The pattern is from a Japanese pattern. I not very familiar with crocheting a top as I get confused on the increases and decreases. As the thread is in apple green colour, I'm going to call it Apple Green Top. I love the colour as it looks very fresh.

I think thats all for today. Just a short a post.

Happy Knitting.

P.S. : By the way thanks for all the compliments on my pinky top. It really makes my day and very encouraging too.

Rosey Leafy Lace Top

2005-02-26T04:15:00.000+08:00

First of all thanks for all your kind compliment for my Pinky Sweater. It is really very encouraging.

I have started a new project. I was inspired by Lyn's Blue Belle and decided to knit one for myself. I have chosen a yarn from Online Linie 165 in rose colour (that is what looks to me, ROSEY). The pattern is not complicated and I knitted on a 3.5mm needles, so the progress is very encouraging although I seldom knitted it. Here is the progress so far.

Besides that, these few weeks I have also enhance my yarn stash. I went to Adeline's last Saturday with my Mom. I bought 6 balls of Online Linie 165 in very soft gray I think (I'm not sure how to describe the colour) and 6 balls of Bianca in Lime colour. For the Bianca I have in mind for a pattern in the World of Knits which is a Lacy 3/4 sweater. With all the new magazines coming up, I'm not sure whether the Bianca will go on as planned, so wait and see.

I also got this from my local book store. Its the Keidotama Spring 2005 edition and this 2 Japanese knitting book which are from the Lets Knits Series and the other one is from another Japanese publisher Ondori.

Lately, DH has been pestering me about having a "Baby". I've have been thinking a lot about these and undecided whether I should have one of my own. What was on my mind was, if I really have a Baby, then I might not have much time for myself. Maybe a little selfish on my part, but thats really bothering me. I want to have more time for myself. Since I'm working, I dont have much time to spend and to add to that with the Baby and house work, I scared I cant cope. Oh yes, with a Baby means, less time for knitting too. Its really bad of me rite... but I just want to make sure if I want a Baby means I really wanted it and not because of other people. Come to think about it, its really not fair for my DH though. Any advise anyone? This Baby thing is really making me nuts.

P/S : With a Baby mean less money to spend on YARN too, lol.

CNY Holidays

2005-02-16T08:20:00.000+08:00

I'm back from the holidays. For Chinese New Year this year we went to Pangkor Island for a short holidays. It is a small island located on the North West coast of Malaysia in the Straits of Malacca. We stayed at the Pangkor Island Beach Resort which is located at the Teluk Belanga. Though it is a small island but there a few places of interest i.e. the chinese temple called "Fu Ling Kung Temple" and the "Kuan Yin Temple". We also visited the 300 year old Dutch Fort. Besides that, Pangkor Island is renowed for its high quality anchovies, we did brought back some. Besided anchovies they have these dried "Big Cuttlefish" that really looks like small frog.

Well, enough about my holiday trip. I managed to finish pinky at last. I did the last part of pinky which is the border in Pangkor Island actually. Here it is.

And here's the shot where I'm wearing it. Overall, I'm happy with the result. The first FO for year 2005.

On the progress of Flowery Top, I've frogged out the whole thing. I dont really like it. My mom loves the crochet though, so I'm going to pass on the thread to her.

I've started a new project, I'm not revealing it here, maybe my next post. I think thats all for now. Wishing everyone a Happy Chinese New Year, hope its not too late.

Vogue Knitting Mag

2005-01-28T11:29:00.000+08:00

Just a short update.

I received my Vogue Knitting Mag today. Its the Winter 2005/2005. I am sure you all might have get your copy already.

Overall, not much project are suitable over here in Malaysia. But there are these two patterns I might like to try it out.

The one on top, the Bobbled Cardigan looks very nice and the Pretty Little Top looks so sweet. I must go through the instructions and see whether I can managed it. I'm so used to Japanese patterns. They are more straight forward compare to this, more complicated. Hope I can try this out soon.

I've got to go now, have to crochet more motifs for my Flowery Top. I have decided to do my Pinky in the office during lunch time and at home I'm going to do up the Flowery Top. Hopefully then Pinky dont have to wait too long.

Update on Pink Button-Up Cardigan

2005-01-22T11:25:00.000+08:00

I am just updating on this Pink Button-Up Cardigan. I've just started the cables on the bottom of the cardigan. I agree with Mona, that the cables is lovely. I have only knitted about 5cm and the patterns need to be knitted about 13cm in length. So another 8cm to go....... Phew... its still a long way to go. I went window shopping today looking for buttons for the Cardigan. Haven't found any yet though.

One of these days I need to go down to town to one of the shop specialise in buttons. I remember they have all sorts of buttons. Must drop by soon.

Now... I have to adjourned to my cables again.

Happy Knitting and have a Nice Weekend.

Lazy Bug

2005-01-20T11:24:00.000+08:00

Its me. I've been infected by the "Lazy Bug". I have not done much knitting lately. What a great way to start new year hah? It seems that I dont have the mood to do anything. I dont even feel like watching tv at nite like what I usually do. Usually I will do my knitting while watching tv, lately the only thing I do after having my dinner is sleep. Yeh... thats the thing I've been doing lately........Its just not me. What happen??????

Anyway, during this few weeks I did knit up something but in a very slow pace. Here it is. The pattern taken from World of Knits 2004 - Spring and Summer. I'm going to name it "Pink Button-Up Cardigan" sounds funny though... What the heck... its mine and I'm going to name it the way I like it. I havent knitted a front button-up cardigan before. So cross my fingers that it is going to happen. I was hoping to finish it before Chinese New Year, but with the slow progress I dont think I can make it. Hmmm.. too bad.

A bit exciting ... eagerly waiting for Chinese New Year. Preparing for it now, so I'm a bit busy lately with spring cleaning and decorating the house and not forgetting shopping too. Besides that there are wedding dinner to attend too. Everybody seems rushing to get married before the Chinese New Year. With that I have to attend both family and friends wedding, well this will really keep me busy.

Ok, thats about it on my knitting update, till then hope everyone HAPPY KNITTING.

Waking Up To A Shocking News

2004-12-28T15:05:00.000+08:00

This morning, I wake up with a shocking news. A Tsunami (8.9 on the Richter scale) hits the Southern Asia region. According to the news, this the most powerful earthquake in 40 years . Malaysia is also affected by it. In Malaysia, more than 30 people killed and it includes children too. The most affected state in Malaysia is Penang. (One of my best friend stayed in Penang and I was informed that her area is not affected. Thank god for it.) I'm saddened by the news. Even though Malaysia are not badly affected, our neighbours Indonesia, Thailand & Sri Lanka are badly affected. My condolences to them and those affected by this Tsunami. This news really shocked me. Our country is the most stable country in the region and it is affected too, I can't imagine how its destroyed our neighbours. My deepest condolences to those who lost their loves ones in this tragedy. A really bad tragedy to end the year.

Well, back to some not so sad happenings, I spent my Chritsmas crocheting at home. This is my first attempt on crocheting a sweater. Here it is.....

It looks a bit on the large side. I'm not really sure whether it will fit me. Since crochet is not stretchable like knitting, I hope that this will fit me. Actually, I already frog out my previous attempt, cause it is way too small, so on this attempt I add in another 4 motifs. (I'm not so sure whether this sweater is going to happen, cause if I finish one side and not up to my liking, I might just frog it out again)

Oh yes, I got some Christmas pressies, its some Cotton Heirloom yarn that I ordered from Ozeyarn in Australia. There you are..... (all in pastel colours).

I've got to go for now, I have to settle some business for my boss before he goes for holiday tomorrow (I'm posting this in the office). Till then, wish me GOOD LUCK on my crocheting.

I'm Back

2004-12-16T11:23:00.000+08:00

Greetings to everyone.

I'm back. I've been missing in action for almost 2 weeks I guess. Been very busy lately with work. Year end is here and as usual this is the time for our Company budget. With me in the marketing department, we have to prepare for next year forecast. Hmm... so tiring. I dont even have time for my knitting and blogging. Fortunately, its done now so that I dont have to worry during Christmas.

So, I guess no FO for me for Christmas. As previously mentioned, I ordered some yarn from Elann, and it arrived already. Its some cotton yarn called Endless Summer Collection. I got some in Burgandy cause I dont have any dark colours.

Here it is....

The other leafy motif top is still in progress, but I'm thinking of starting another project. Greedy me, but I have not decided which one. Its a bit hard for me to choose a design lately. It seem everything is nice and I wanted all of them.

I think thats all for today, I'm going to choose another new project now.

Eyelet Top Is Up

2004-11-29T08:06:00.000+08:00

Hooray, my eyelet top is done. I managed to get it seam up yesterday nite. A long seaming nite. Almost took me two and and half week to get this eyelet done and not too bad.

Surprisingly, I only use up 4 balls of yarn (165m a ball). Hmm... I might get a few more balls, maybe this time in plain colours. It is nice to knit in this yarn caused it is mercimerised cotton and of course it won't split. The Livre Cotton which I'm currently using for my leafy top is not so nice, it will split and the yarndage is not so good as this Bianca.

I've ordered a few yarns from Elann last week (as my birthday present). Hopefully, I will received it this week. Hmmm..... waiting eagerly. My hands is aching, maybe its the intensive knitting (thats what my hubby is telling me) this few weeks or it is the house work. Not too sure myself. I remember last year when I shifted to my own home, I had this problem. I'm a pampered girl, not use to house work. The most I've done maybe cleaning my own room. So since I've shifted, all have to be done by myself. No more Mom to do it (now I know how good is my Mom, thanks mom for everthing).

Early Surprise

2004-11-24T12:36:00.000+08:00

Tomorrow is my BIRTHDAY and guess what, I got a surprise this morning. My hubby sent me a bouquet of Lilies with two cute little bear bear. This is the second time he sends me flowers. I remember the first time was when we were courting. Both of us think that it is quite a waste buying flowers. But surprise surprise he bought me flowers this year on my Birthday Eve. Its lovely. Hmmm... why do gals always love receiving flowers (even though we sometimes say its a waste but no denying we are always glad to receive them, thats what men believe when a gal says NO, it will always mean YES in their heart). So, HAPPY BIRTHDAY to ME (you are getting older again).

I was planning to at least finish knitting the Biance eyelet top during the weekend but silly me, I left the pattern with my row counter in the office. So now I dont get to finish the top as planned. To occupy my time I started a new project. Its a top too and I think I call it Leafy coz the motif look like leaf to me. It is knitted using the Livre Cotton. Its quite headache too, I have to frog out the whole thing a few times coz the edging did not turn out quite well. Luckily it is only a few rows. So here's the progress so far. I've been doing this the whole of Sunday and thats the result, quite slow for my speed.

Anyway, I'm continuing to knit my eyelet top now. The progress so far, I'm shaping the neck now. Hopefully, I could get the front done by this weekend so I can block it this weekend. Then I will be able to start seaming by next week.

Blocking-Up

2004-11-17T07:44:00.000+08:00

Thanks for all the concern for my kitty, Baby. He is getting better now but we still have to feed him with the antibiotic till this Friday. It is really headache to feed him, he is getting smarter each day resisting it.

In Malaysia we are a long holiday during the weekend. The muslims are celebrating their new year and we are off for Monday and Tuesday (back to work tomorrow, Wednesday). At least I can get to finish my first half of the Biance Eyelet. It's done now and up for blocking. Here it is.....

"This is the close-up for the top half"

This is the first time I'm doing the shaping of the shoulder which is slantwise. It took me almost 3 hours to complete it. I was almost give-up but luckily I managed. At least I'm learning something new. So now I'm casting on the front. I hope I can it finish-up maybe this weekend.