tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55428457747060508252024-03-14T01:40:49.829-04:00French Press KnitsFrench Press Knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07437740864852050313noreply@blogger.comBlogger383125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5542845774706050825.post-24872551363816707652016-10-19T16:36:00.001-04:002016-10-19T16:36:16.484-04:00Moved!!!Just a quick update to let you know we've moved- blog locations, that is! You will find the new blog (with all the previous posts) at <a href="http://www.frenchpressknits.com/blog/">http://www.frenchpressknits.com/blog/</a> . Make sure you pop on over sometime in the next few days as we are kicking things off with a giveaway!<br />
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While you're there, take time to peek around the new <a href="http://www.frenchpressknits.com/">frenchpressknits.com</a> - thanks! :-)<br />
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<script src="https://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>French Press Knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07437740864852050313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5542845774706050825.post-77744701558445158662016-07-11T08:00:00.000-04:002016-07-11T08:00:09.775-04:00Christmas in July<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This year has been a long and trying one. I quit my job in October and took on role of full time stay-at-home mother of three little ones. Joe started and completed his first year teaching and it was a doozy (I hear the first year's the hardest, right?!)! Now that July has come in to our lives, life is simpler. Joe is home and we are enjoying family time, and during the days, I am free to work... on knitting!</div>
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UF0l5-Zf1fI/V3-0VStTtGI/AAAAAAAADxo/2c2hC8WXu-k/s640/blogger-image-370417735.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UF0l5-Zf1fI/V3-0VStTtGI/AAAAAAAADxo/2c2hC8WXu-k/s640/blogger-image-370417735.jpg" /></a></div>
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Yarn has been arriving...</div>
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And I have been winding:</div>
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And it's time to (finally) sit down and work on my stocking pattern collection!</div>
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hDtgvRhUYh4/V3-0SzquJeI/AAAAAAAADxc/6_r2-HWlc0E/s640/blogger-image-1039484439.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hDtgvRhUYh4/V3-0SzquJeI/AAAAAAAADxc/6_r2-HWlc0E/s640/blogger-image-1039484439.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a>My goal is to have a collection of 5-10 stocking patterns released by mid October (Rhinebeck, anyone?!), available in digital download and hard copy. I'm busy getting quotes from printers while charting and knitting and writing and all the other good things that life is allowing me these days<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hDtgvRhUYh4/V3-0SzquJeI/AAAAAAAADxc/6_r2-HWlc0E/s640/blogger-image-1039484439.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hDtgvRhUYh4/V3-0SzquJeI/AAAAAAAADxc/6_r2-HWlc0E/s640/blogger-image-1039484439.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hDtgvRhUYh4/V3-0SzquJeI/AAAAAAAADxc/6_r2-HWlc0E/s640/blogger-image-1039484439.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a>. Follow me over on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/frenchpressknits/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> for the most up to date posts, or with the hashtag "#fpkchristmasinjuly"<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-O4NAs2kBbOU/V3-0UVrvv0I/AAAAAAAADxk/kSMzoMcppe4/s640/blogger-image--624356900.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
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French Press Knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07437740864852050313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5542845774706050825.post-71939834720094181522016-07-08T10:37:00.000-04:002016-07-08T10:41:56.282-04:00Favorite Summer Tee<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It started slow...</div>
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And at first, I wasn't really sure how I felt about working with Linen yarn. But, slowly the project began to take form...</div>
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Until I had a substantial piece and could really start to understand the beauty of linen fabric.</div>
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And then came time for sleeves:</div>
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Which admittedly took longer than they should have.</div>
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But then, sweet completion!</div>
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And this fit!</div>
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Raveled: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/FrenchPressKnits/favorite-summer-tee" target="_blank">here</a></div>
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This summer my linen tee has been getting much wear. It's true what they say about linen- softer with each wash/wear. It's beauty truly lies in its drape and feel, which only grows softer and comfier with each wear.</div>
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<br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Here's the inspiration tee with the handknit tee- math is a beautiful thing, my friends!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pBUt-6xG3to/V3-7swgY-HI/AAAAAAAADx8/Qb0ziJxsvsY/s640/blogger-image--1285824190.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pBUt-6xG3to/V3-7swgY-HI/AAAAAAAADx8/Qb0ziJxsvsY/s640/blogger-image--1285824190.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">And for those wondering: yes- I will be writing up a pattern, but not immediately. It will be something I work on this winter for release early spring. There are some other projects taking my time these days- more on that soon... 😉</div></div>
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<br>French Press Knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07437740864852050313noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5542845774706050825.post-42213900967891544872016-05-02T13:42:00.000-04:002016-05-02T13:42:01.310-04:00Annie's Signature Designs Kit Winner<span style="font-family: inherit;">Thanks all for entering to win the <a href="https://www.anniescatalog.com/detail.html?prod_id=130990&cat_id=1045#product_kit_builder" style="background-color: white; color: #64401c; line-height: 20.592px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Ventana Vest</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #64401c; line-height: 20.592px; text-align: center;"> Kit. Our winner is Aubrey McKelvey. Congrats, Aubrey!</span></span><br />
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<script src="http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>French Press Knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07437740864852050313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5542845774706050825.post-23336376193134241342016-04-25T08:00:00.000-04:002016-04-29T18:51:52.547-04:00Annie's Signature Designs Summer Love Collection GiveawayAs I'm busy stitching away on my first ever summer knit, I wanted to give you all the opportunity to jump right in as well. <br />
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I have been given the opportunity to help spread the wo<span style="background-color: white;">rd about<a href="https://www.anniescatalog.com/signature/summer2016/lookbook.html" target="_blank"> Annie's Signature Designs Summer </a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.anniescatalog.com/signature/summer2016/lookbook.html" target="_blank">Love collection</a>- an exclusive, seasonal collection of upscale knitting and crochet patterns. This season's </span>inaugural collection was envisioned by <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/designers/lena-skvagerson" target="_blank">Lena Skvasgerson</a>, who brings more that 25 years of experience in the European design market.<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YdU_D3SYZTA/Vx1vn8B6brI/AAAAAAAADnU/LwEo9jUIvMAq6hcoEGpKwkk3KBbOTdrLACLcB/s1600/ASL1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YdU_D3SYZTA/Vx1vn8B6brI/AAAAAAAADnU/LwEo9jUIvMAq6hcoEGpKwkk3KBbOTdrLACLcB/s640/ASL1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The collection is teeming with options of lightweight layering pieces that are perfect for the summer months.</div>
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My favorite piece is probably the <a href="https://www.anniescatalog.com/detail.html?prod_id=130984&cat_id=1047#product_kit_builder" target="_blank">Chamisal Tee Pattern</a>- but I think that is partly because I have summer tees on the brain?</div>
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Annie's gives you the option to "build-a-kit", which means you don't have to look far to find the perfect yarn for your project, it can all be ordered together.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q8LpIzNQE_0/VyPlRPypJLI/AAAAAAAADoU/QHhu90uGD34k_EtXd2dbWIOiSpAsdQZsACLcB/s1600/2016-02-23%2B11.28.27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q8LpIzNQE_0/VyPlRPypJLI/AAAAAAAADoU/QHhu90uGD34k_EtXd2dbWIOiSpAsdQZsACLcB/s320/2016-02-23%2B11.28.27.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Have I still not convinced you that lightweight summer knit are what all the cool kids are wearing this year? Well- this may help....<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TohSFprIo2I/Vx1yXcWUZOI/AAAAAAAADns/ctn7xBqHwiQaXD9c0GjAWIzIktwWbH9UQCK4B/s1600/Ventana%2BVest%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TohSFprIo2I/Vx1yXcWUZOI/AAAAAAAADns/ctn7xBqHwiQaXD9c0GjAWIzIktwWbH9UQCK4B/s320/Ventana%2BVest%2B2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Up for grabs is a lovely <a href="https://www.anniescatalog.com/detail.html?prod_id=130990&cat_id=1045#product_kit_builder" target="_blank">Ventana Vest</a> Kit. One lucky winner will receive a pattern download and enough <a href="https://www.anniescatalog.com/yarn_and_thread/detail.html?prod_id=129245" target="_blank">Plymouth Yarn Driftone</a> to complete the project.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4IewM9feL-8/VyPle0Z_gYI/AAAAAAAADoY/WtqunRkcPD4gPbx2kZLnxvbT0T4BZpRTACLcB/s1600/annies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4IewM9feL-8/VyPle0Z_gYI/AAAAAAAADoY/WtqunRkcPD4gPbx2kZLnxvbT0T4BZpRTACLcB/s320/annies.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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To enter, take a peep at the <a href="https://issuu.com/annies-publishing/docs/summer_love_knit_pattern_collection" target="_blank">Summer Love Collection Lookbook</a> (or click this link to see the <a href="https://www.anniescatalog.com/list.html?cat_parent_id=25&criteria=summerlove" target="_blank">pattern webpage</a>) and let me know which look is your favorite. Comment below, make sure you leave a way for me to contact you if you are our randomly selected winner. Giveaway ends at 11:59 EST on Friday, April 29, 2016. Best of luck!<br />
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<script src="http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>French Press Knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07437740864852050313noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5542845774706050825.post-62373115293298200532016-04-24T20:51:00.000-04:002016-04-24T20:51:33.755-04:00Linen Stitching<br />
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For some time, I've been wanting to remake one of my favorite summer shirts in a hand knit version. Now that I'm home with the kids full time I have been able to find extra time for knitting (or sometimes just thinking about knitting- that's an accomplishment, too!).</div>
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This picture is from a few years ago, but it's the best I could find that would give you an idea of the shirt. It's a lightweight knit fabric with clean, simple lines. It fits perfectly and I feel beyond comfortable in it. I actually have the shirt in both white and black and both get a fair amount of wear, especially in the warmer months. </div>
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Enter <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/designers/shannon-cook" target="_blank">Shannon Cook'</a>s (aka '<a href="http://veryshannon.com/blog/" target="_blank">Very Shannon</a>') TTTKAL. Many of you are probably familiar. For those who are not, it stands for "Tops, Tanks, & Tees Knit Along" and it was the perfect excuse to finally see my project through to fruition.</div>
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Since the store bought version fits perfectly, I started with careful measurements and multiple swatches. I decided to knit the shirt in Quince&Co. "Sparrow". The yarn is a fingering weight linen, and is quite a difference when compared to my normal 100% wool. </div>
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There's a totally different feel when working with linen yarn, it kind of gives my fingers this funny tingling feeling. Like, you know your feet get that weird prickly sensation when you're standing at the edge of super high building (what... am I the only one?!?)? It's sort of like that in my hands. I'm learning to appreciate it for what it is. </div>
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Something else I've learned. Linen looks messy as you knit. It makes you question your existence as a knitter and wonder if the bloom and halo of wool is just a crutch to hide your stitch flaws ("a little caulk, a little paint, make a builder what he ain't"... I feel like we need one of these for knitting).</div>
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But then you wash your knitting (yes wash, not just block- I'm talking full on washer and dryer!)...</div>
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and you're left with uniform stitches with a bit of slub and a drape that is out of this world.</div>
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Tomorrow I have a giveaway kicking off- stay tuned for your chance to win a summer knitting kit!</div>
French Press Knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07437740864852050313noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5542845774706050825.post-70053359160200957282016-03-16T21:00:00.002-04:002016-03-16T21:00:16.761-04:00Lamplight Mittens<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Just a quick post to alert the knitting world to a new mitten pattern I released today :-)</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YhkJxhTU1lY/VuoA1emA8jI/AAAAAAAADko/91vOr5K6ECsOObn7nefEGsp3vXI7DSJ_A/s1600/IMG_3798.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YhkJxhTU1lY/VuoA1emA8jI/AAAAAAAADko/91vOr5K6ECsOObn7nefEGsp3vXI7DSJ_A/s400/IMG_3798.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A classic mitten design featuring a subtle cable pattern. Contrasting lined cuffs add warmth and a pop of color to give these mittens a touch of unexpected luxury.</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iu1Cf0_X1Sw/VuoA1ZGLf6I/AAAAAAAADkk/Utmr64do-Q860UbdxfEACT7JrRdUjVrnQ/s1600/IMG_3801.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iu1Cf0_X1Sw/VuoA1ZGLf6I/AAAAAAAADkk/Utmr64do-Q860UbdxfEACT7JrRdUjVrnQ/s400/IMG_3801.jpg" width="381" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Starting with a provisional cast on and contrasting yarn, the inner cuff is knitted before switching to the worsted weight yarn. After completing the outer cuff, the inner cuff is turned in and joined as you continue to knit the body of the mitten.</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ceLD83wg9kU/VuoAzAWRaAI/AAAAAAAADkc/cnWXZL4W7mY20feJ6jsVSKwHuYlBMy4DQ/s1600/IMG_3782.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ceLD83wg9kU/VuoAzAWRaAI/AAAAAAAADkc/cnWXZL4W7mY20feJ6jsVSKwHuYlBMy4DQ/s400/IMG_3782.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Utilizing just one skein of Quince & Co. “Owl” and a small amount of fingering weight yarn, this project will fly of your needles and onto your hands before the spring warmth has time to set in!</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pS1fZYvaBqg/VuoA1kfYCSI/AAAAAAAADks/EOpO4CQUF0ICH0V8e4loCJeLTmXAjvgqQ/s1600/IMG_3803.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pS1fZYvaBqg/VuoA1kfYCSI/AAAAAAAADks/EOpO4CQUF0ICH0V8e4loCJeLTmXAjvgqQ/s320/IMG_3803.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Find them on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/lamplight-mittens" target="_blank">Ravelry</a> now!</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VFYCGQXdfnM/VuoAzX6f6aI/AAAAAAAADkY/gN806CgNBcEkzR1dsRAtAyu6cYWCG3VWQ/s1600/IMG_3760.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VFYCGQXdfnM/VuoAzX6f6aI/AAAAAAAADkY/gN806CgNBcEkzR1dsRAtAyu6cYWCG3VWQ/s320/IMG_3760.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MlMqAIRONJk/VuoAzZuThSI/AAAAAAAADkg/pBjuiXq0GS4cKweb0wdADGRMznk4G5uJw/s1600/IMG_3775.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MlMqAIRONJk/VuoAzZuThSI/AAAAAAAADkg/pBjuiXq0GS4cKweb0wdADGRMznk4G5uJw/s320/IMG_3775.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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<script src="http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>French Press Knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07437740864852050313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5542845774706050825.post-82325360213995690382016-01-15T08:00:00.000-05:002016-01-15T08:00:24.157-05:00Sam's Christmas Sweater<div style="text-align: center;">
And finally, some pictures. More about the process in <a href="http://www.frenchpressknits.com/2016/01/how-to-make-your-christmas-season-more.html" target="_blank">yesterday's post</a>.</div>
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The sweater was modeled after Joe's Graduation Vest (I still owe you some posts on that, don't I?). I changed the colors a bit but used the same pattern. <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/yarns/Palette_Yarn__D5420132.html" target="_blank">Knitpick's Palette</a> was the yarn of choice, and I used less than one skein of every color used.</div>
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Raveled: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/FrenchPressKnits/sams-christmas-vest" target="_blank">here</a></div>
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French Press Knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07437740864852050313noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5542845774706050825.post-91167301724782711202016-01-14T14:09:00.001-05:002016-01-14T14:09:40.082-05:00How to Make Your Christmas Season More Stressful<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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That's right. If there's ever been an authority on creating more stress for yourself, I'd like to throw my hat in the ring for the title. There's a big part of me that thrives on deadlines and coming in right at the buzzer. At the end of a 5k or 10k race, I enjoy digging deep and finding my last bit of energy to finish in a mad sprint. It seems I have adapted this same tactic when I approach my knitting, <i>especially</i> when knitting before Christmas!</div>
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So, on the 18th of December, I decided that Sam needed a new sweater vest for the holiday season. Things started great. I cast in the morning and sat knitting among the kids while they played. As Clara napped in the afternoon, I enjoyed some hardcore knitting while Sam enjoyed a show... or two. Before heading out to the bus stop in the afternoon, I was just about ready to start armhole decreases and add in steek stitches. </div>
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But then the Christmas season hit. I wasn't worried about the project and kept putting it off to do silly things like wrap presents, send out Christmas cards, and hit the grocery store way too often.</div>
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The project was small which made it quite convenient for throwing in my <a href="http://www.fringesupplyco.com/product/fringe-supply-project-bag" target="_blank">Field Bag</a> and bringing it along while waiting for tables and other holiday season excursions.</div>
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Then I realized I had to pause and actually take some time to figure out what I was doing. When I originally cast on, I took some measurements, did a gauge swatch and started knitting. When it came to the top of the vest, I took a garment out of Sam's closet and measured, planned, and fumbled my way through to the end.</div>
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And two days before Christmas, I had something that looked like this:</div>
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Now, here's the tricky part. I always think that this means I'm almost done. It doesn't. 2x2 ribbing in fingering weight yarn isn't the quickest of knitting ventures. Especially when you're in a Christmas fog and don't cast on enough neck stitches. That's right- a sweater of any sort will NOT fit over a giant toddler noggin if the neck hole is not large enough (lesson learned). So after ripping back and re-knitting I was left with just the ends to weave in on Christmas morning.</div>
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Or so I thought. Enter younger toddler sister. Who, despite being incapable of living an hour a day off my hip while I prepare dinner, ends up being totally capable of operating a pair of small scissors. Thank you, fine motor skills.</div>
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By no means was the sweater destroyed, but it was enough to put last-minute-knitting-mom into a tizzy as I frantically tied whatever ends I could and reinforced cut stitches. Lovely, no?!</div>
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But, by the time we were ready to head out to relatives, a sweater vest was complete... along with all that other stuff people make you do for Christmas!</div>
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And as the rest of the day was such a blur, the finished sweater vest did not get much time in front of the camera.</div>
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French Press Knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07437740864852050313noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5542845774706050825.post-73286944342676403192016-01-08T11:03:00.000-05:002016-01-08T11:03:57.370-05:00When Good Knits Go Forgotten<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Welcome to 2016! I hope you all enjoyed the holiday season. The down time was much needed and appreciated in our neck of the woods, but it's good to be back on a schedule and to be making goals for the New Year.<br />
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In the midst of the New Year productivity, we decided to switch our kids bedrooms around. Clara moved into Sam's old room, Sam moved into Elise's old room, and Elise moved into Clara's old room. *phew* Not an easy task! <br />
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With all the moves came cleaning out closets and drawers. I have a box of hand knits stowed away in the back of the nursery closet. I <i>thought</i> I had gotten out all of Elise's old knits for Clara to put into rotation but to my surprise, I found this beaut' tucked in bottom:<br />
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So, while Clara was busy wearing her <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/merriment-cardigan" target="_blank">Merriment Cardigan</a> around town all Christmas, this one was sadly tucked away. The good news? It fits!<br />
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The sweater was<a href="http://www.frenchpressknits.com/2012/01/new-sweater.html" target="_blank"> knit for Elise for Christmas back in 2011</a>. Although I limited use/wear to the holidays back then, now I'm just happy Clara has a chance to wear this hand-me-down-hand-knit while it's still chilly!<br />
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<script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit_main.js" type="text/javascript"></script><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit_main.js" type="text/javascript"></script><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit_main.js" type="text/javascript"></script><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit_main.js" type="text/javascript"></script><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit_main.js" type="text/javascript"></script><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit_main.js" type="text/javascript"></script><script src="http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>French Press Knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07437740864852050313noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5542845774706050825.post-84130100718039429882015-12-14T08:00:00.000-05:002015-12-14T08:00:12.203-05:00Inside Scoop- Merriment Cardigan and BonnetWow. I feel like this has been a long time coming. These two patterns have been my focus since I quit my job in October (well, these and raising three small children!). <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LZ-MqybOjNA/VmpFzXXYCiI/AAAAAAAADNs/2Sw_roGRtpA/s1600/Cardigan%2B3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LZ-MqybOjNA/VmpFzXXYCiI/AAAAAAAADNs/2Sw_roGRtpA/s640/Cardigan%2B3.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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I've known for a long time that these were the patterns I wanted to kickoff my "comeback" with. The sweater and bonnet set are very dear to my heart. When I think back to the time I spent creating them last year, it was blissful. I was off work for almost two weeks at the holidays. That amount of time away from the job was unheard of in my life for many years. The company I worked for started everyone off with two weeks of vacation. I didn't get Christmas Eve or New Years Eve, so vacation days were always saved for this time. What this meant is that I went many years without a vacation of more than just a long weekend here or there.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3Pfx_URTkL0/VmpFwlLF1QI/AAAAAAAADNo/t5LQV8hlh3A/s1600/Bonnet%2B1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3Pfx_URTkL0/VmpFwlLF1QI/AAAAAAAADNo/t5LQV8hlh3A/s640/Bonnet%2B1.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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Last year I knew I was winding down. Joe was about to start his last semester of grad school, and I knew I would soon be the one home with the kids. But I wasn't yet, and I cherished those weeks around the house. My nights were spent knitting on the couch, in the light of the Christmas tree, listening to audio books. I'm pretty sure I listened to every book by <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lucy_Maud_Montgomery" target="_blank">L.M. Montgomery</a> along with <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Little_Women" target="_blank">Little Women</a>. With the extra free time and no work commitments, knitting was exciting to me again. It wasn't a burden or something I had to get done because I had a duty to fulfill, I was creating for the very love of it. Like I said: blissful.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u4_9ssI4Tpw/VmpFv6tilGI/AAAAAAAADN4/SYGRKhey2lo/s1600/Bonnet%2B2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u4_9ssI4Tpw/VmpFv6tilGI/AAAAAAAADN4/SYGRKhey2lo/s400/Bonnet%2B2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I started with <a href="http://www.frenchpressknits.com/2014/12/stocking-conclusions.html" target="_blank">Clara's stocking</a>, posting pictures on Instagram and seeking the opinion of the knitting community along the way. I loved what had resulted from this power session and it made me fall in love with knitting all over again. I decided that since <a href="http://www.frenchpressknits.com/2014/12/stocking-duos.html" target="_blank">Sam and Elise both had knits to match their stockings, </a> Clara also needed something special I could hand down to her.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BMhKJpbuZIw/VmpFwcCzIJI/AAAAAAAADNc/-I_HizFXlqM/s1600/Bonnet%2B3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BMhKJpbuZIw/VmpFwcCzIJI/AAAAAAAADNc/-I_HizFXlqM/s640/Bonnet%2B3.JPG" width="512" /></a></div>
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The end product made me giddy. So much so that I wrote up a quick version of the pattern to share. I promised a pattern for both, along with multiple sizes and just couldn't deliver on the time line I was hoping for. Winter came and went, and demands of everyday life started to press in again. I ended up working a little longer than expected, so when I finally 'retired' I knew exactly what was going on my needles.<br />
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So here I sit, typing in the light of the Christmas tree, reminiscing about last year, and thinking about what this year has brought. A chance to stay home with my kids, a chance to make knitting/creating/designing a bigger part of my life again. I have agonized over this pattern. Writing, rewriting: top-down, bottom-up, steeked in the round, flat with no steek, lice stitch removed, lice stitch back in. I wanted it to be as special for your little one as it has been for mine. <br />
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And maybe even bigger than this, I wanted this pattern to represent who I am as a knitter and designer. I'm back, and there may be no stopping me this time!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-53M7CX3_dpg/VmpFz354hgI/AAAAAAAADN0/PHheCtFk1YQ/s1600/Cardigan%2B4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-53M7CX3_dpg/VmpFz354hgI/AAAAAAAADN0/PHheCtFk1YQ/s640/Cardigan%2B4.JPG" width="512" /></a></div>
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<script src="http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>French Press Knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07437740864852050313noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5542845774706050825.post-91389899331582852972015-12-11T13:17:00.002-05:002015-12-11T13:18:09.035-05:00Merriment Release<div style="text-align: center;">
Just a quick post to let you know that the Merriment Cardigan and Bonnet Pattern are now available on Ravelry.</div>
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I've been looking forward to sharing this set for so long! You can purchase the cardigan and bonnet separately, or purchase together for a discount.</div>
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For this weekend only, use code "MERRIMENTBLOG" for 20% off individual patterns or "BLOGSET" for 20% off the already discounted bundle.</div>
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So hop to it! Find the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/merriment-cardigan" target="_blank">Cardigan here</a> and the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/merriment-bonnet" target="_blank">Bonnet here</a>!</div>
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More details and pictures coming soon!</div>
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French Press Knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07437740864852050313noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5542845774706050825.post-27387011956900427702015-12-10T13:19:00.000-05:002015-12-10T13:19:58.321-05:00Midwestern Knits/ Beechwood Hat and CowlTo wrap up the updates on patterns released since I've been away, I'm excited to share a bit about <a href="http://midwesternknits.com/" target="_blank">Midwestern Knits</a>.<br />
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A while back, I was asked by fellow knitters <a href="http://carinaspencer.com/" target="_blank">Carina Spencer</a> and <a href="http://www.thesweatshopoflove.com/" target="_blank">Allyson Dykhuizen</a> if I would like to contribute to their project which focused on Midwest designers who have a love for the Midwest. I was beyond excited about the idea and thrilled to contribute two accessory patterns to the book. <br />
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The book features 13 designs that are divided into four categories: Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall (we do like our seasons here in the Midwest, right?!). Tucked into the Winter section, you will find The Beechwood Hat and Cowl Set.<br />
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As a young girl, my last hoorah of summer was always spent in Ludington, Michigan in the company of friends and extended family. Ludington State Park is comprised of three campgrounds: Pines, Cedar, and Beechwood. The Beechwood campground is nestled in the back of the park amidst towering trees, calm streams, and rolling hills. It was there that many of my earliest memories were formed. </div>
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With our 10-speed Huffy bicycles, the world was ours. We could get anywhere we needed to go, with a band of friends right at our side. It was the best of both worlds- the carefree lifestyle children often enjoy with the freedom to decide our own itinerary. We filled our days with hiking, swimming, and riding, while our nights held promises of campfires, smoky clothes, and s’mores.</div>
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My grandfather, who lived in a more suburban area, enjoyed his time in the great outdoors. Back at home, Grandpa loved watching the squirrels and birds in his backyard. In Ludington, he would collect acorns to bring back for the coming winter. He took advantage of the all the free time his grandchildren had by putting us to work, all while teaching us the value of a (literal) dollar. Grandpa would hand the kids each a brown grocery bag, send us up into the woods, and pay us a dollar when we came back with a bag filled with acorns.</div>
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This set was inspired by those late summer afternoons, the time spent among the meandering trails of dark soil searching for acorns, filling our bags full. Making our forever Midwest Memories.</div>
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A couple months ago, I led a (my first ever) knit-a-long for the set. If you haven't tried <a href="http://ysolda.com/blog/2014/5/8/technique-thursday-cabling-without-a-cable-needle" target="_blank">cabling without a cable needle</a>, it's a great pattern to try the technique on! Here's the set I knit for myself, which has become my 'everyday' hat and cowl here in Michigan since the weather has gotten chilly. </div>
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Both hat and Cowl is knit from less than two skeins of <a href="http://threeirishgirls.com/collections/yarn-info" target="_blank">Three Irish Girls Springvale Worsted</a> (which is totally luscious and perfect for the cable and garter combo!). The colorway used in the book is Driftwood; pictured above, Skipping Stones.<br />
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You can purchase the hard copy of the book directly <a href="http://midwesternknits.com/" target="_blank">from the website</a>, or download the ebook with all <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/midwestern-knits/patterns" target="_blank">13 patterns on Ravelry</a>. The hard copy of the book also come with a code to download the ebook into your Rav library. Individual patterns will be available for download later in 2016.<br />
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<br />French Press Knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07437740864852050313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5542845774706050825.post-29029386907557946952015-11-11T14:41:00.004-05:002015-11-11T14:42:57.387-05:00Frances HatSo has it been a whole week since I last posted? Yikes! I promise it was for good reason. I have been busy working on my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/merriment-bonnet">Merriment Cardigan</a> pattern and got a little carried away. The good news is that it is written up and just about ready to send of to the tech editor (yay!). It's a process I hope to become more efficient with, but I am learning every day :-)<br />
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The second design I worked up for Swan's Island Yarn was a color work hat- tones of gray and pops of orange. The palette reminds me of a rainy fall day, when the wet leaves truly pop against the dreary background.<br />
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The pattern for the Frances Hat can be found on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/frances-hat" target="_blank">Ravelry</a>. The yarn is again from Swan's Island Yarn and can be found at your local yarn shop or <a href="https://swansislandcompany.com/product-category/handcrafted-yarns/">online</a>.<br />
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<script src="http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>French Press Knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07437740864852050313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5542845774706050825.post-73134271161791961972015-11-04T14:02:00.000-05:002015-11-04T14:05:51.638-05:00Paige Mitts<br />
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This first design I have to share with you are my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/paige-mitts">Paige Mitts</a> for <a href="https://swansislandcompany.com/product-category/handcrafted-yarns/">Swans Island Yarn Company</a>. I had the pleasure of visiting Swans Island "headquarters" on a family trip to Maine in 2014 (the week after Clara was born).<br />
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Visiting Maine was a dream. In many ways, the terrain reminded us of northern Michigan... but different. Big hilly expanses gave us a sense of being home, but the rocky terrain and blooms (oh, those sea air blooms!) put us in another world. </div>
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To have the chance to tour Swan's Island Yarn put the vacation on a whole new level.</div>
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At the end of my visit, I was loaded up with yarn to play and experiment with, including a few skeins from the <a href="https://swansislandcompany.com/product-category/handcrafted-yarns/rambouillet-yarn/">All American Collection</a>. I got busy working and designed two patterns for the release of their sport weight line. </div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-size: 0.9em;">© 2015 Swans Island / Gale Zucker</span></div>
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The Paige Mitts knit up quickly in two skeins of <a href="https://swansislandcompany.com/product-category/handcrafted-yarns/rambouillet-yarn/?filter_yarn-weight=16">Swans Island All American Wool Sport Weight</a>. Although they are knit in low contrast, subtle tones here, the yarn comes in 36 different shades. I plan on knitting myself a pair in a high contrast red and white (when, not sure... but that's the plan!).</div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-size: 0.9em;">© 2015 Swans Island / Gale Zucker</span></div>
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This yarn is the bee's knees to work with. Seriously, I'm not kidding! The stitch definition and 'grippiness' of the yarn makes it the perfect choice for colorwork patterns, small and large.</div>
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If your LYS doesn't carry it, it is available to order directly from <a href="https://swansislandcompany.com/product-category/handcrafted-yarns/">their website</a>.</div>
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Paige Mitts are available through Swans Island Yarn, as a pdf download via Ravelry. </div>
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<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/paige-mitts">Get them in your queue now!</a></div>
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Here's a little sneak peek- swatches!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-y8u8ItQUjYU/VjfEwcnPcXI/AAAAAAAADIQ/kk-AL7TO10A/s640/blogger-image-449249761.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-y8u8ItQUjYU/VjfEwcnPcXI/AAAAAAAADIQ/kk-AL7TO10A/s640/blogger-image-449249761.jpg"></a></div><br>
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So let's recap a bit from yesterday's post, yes? I was setting the stage of what life has looked like for our family over the past few years and contemplating how knitting/French Press Knits fits into the picture:</div>
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- full time job</div>
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-3 kids under age 4</div>
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-husband= full time grad school</div>
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So knitting. Sadly, it just hasn't been fitting in. </div>
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Last week, <a href="https://instagram.com/frenchpressknits/">on Instagram</a>, I alluded to some new developments in our lives. Joe, who graduated earlier this year, has just started his first teaching job. For the first time in a long while, I have the option to stay home. And guess what? I did it!</div>
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This is what I have dreamed of and hoped for since Elise was born, but life got crazy, and the years trudged on. Now that I have spent the last five years praying that this day would come and it finally has, I. AM. TERRIFIED.</div>
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What it all boils down to is this: My job has been my excuse for not getting things done. I've let it be the excuse for not keeping our house clean/organized and I've let it be the excuse for not releasing new patterns/knitting more. </div>
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In my own defense, the past few years have been beyond crazy. I feel like there has been pressure and stress coming in from every facet of my life. And if there were any moments of downtime, I felt the need to just do something totally mindless.</div>
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My last day of work was two weeks ago. Right before I quit, my head was spinning. There were so many things I was holding back from doing that I didn't know where I wanted to start. As far as knitting goes, I have been dying to find a moment to write up the pattern for Clara's Christmas set from last year. The problem is, our house is my current work in progress. I have spent the past couple weeks cleaning closets, painting, updating hardware, etc</div>
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It has felt good to be so productive at home, and I finally feel like things are getting whipped into shape. The other day Elise came home from school and declared, "Mommy- It's like we have a whole new house!". I think I'm on the right track :-)</div>
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Now that things are being managed on the home front, I plan to officially start my knitting career... if you can call it that! When Elise is at school, I still have two little ones at home, so it won't be easy. I'm working on finding babysitters for about 6 hours a week. It isn't much, but I need to start somewhere, right? </div>
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Excited to see where this takes me and looking forward to sharing everything that's been floating around in my head for the past few years.</div>
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No fears- just time to do it!</div>
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I know it's been a while since I've had much of a presence online, and it's time that all changes (I hope).<br />
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I think we'll kick this post off with a little FPK history lesson. Here it goes:<br />
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Back in 2009, I discovered <a href="http://etsy.com/">Etsy</a>. I was fascinated by the idea of being able to create and be a part of a community of makers. I've always enjoyed 'doing'- making things with my hands and having a tangible product for my work. I love to be able to stand back at the end of a day and have a sense of pride in the work I can clearly see before me. <br />
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Although I had a full time career at the time, I still had time on my hands. I was looking for the creative outlet that my job lacked in providing me, and I found it in Etsy. I opened <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/FrenchPressKnits">my shop</a> and started designing some simple chunky knits that were easy to get on and off the needles. I poured myself into branding my products and loved the rush of a sale (even if they were very few and far between).<br />
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A couple months after opening the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/FrenchPressKnits">Etsy store</a> I started experimenting a bit with felting. I had felted before, but I had a pair of ballet flats that I had a vision for. I was hoping for a pair of slippers that looked just like them- basic flat, single strap with button across the toe. The French Press Felted Slippers were born and soon selling like hotcakes. <br />
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It was fun for a while, but our house kind of turned into a slipper factory. My husband and I both worked full time jobs and would come home every night to 'knitting time'. I'm pretty sure I had us on some kind of quota to meet. Oh yeah- Did I mention that <a href="http://www.frenchpressknits.com/2010/01/kung-fu-knitting-by-joe.html">Joe had to learn to knit</a> so I could meet this slipper quota?<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_suvtEN0uP9c/S1YbpbW0giI/AAAAAAAAAac/2t7zLx5Jjqw/s1600/joehat.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_suvtEN0uP9c/S1YbpbW0giI/AAAAAAAAAac/2t7zLx5Jjqw/s400/joehat.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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It wasn't long before knitters started contacting me about the slipper pattern. They all seemed to suggest that I get on <a href="http://ravelry.com/">Ravelry</a> and offer the pattern up for sale. At this point, I had heard of Ravelry, and had actually logged on... and quickly turned away because I thought there would be too much of a learning curve. I was busy enough between my job and this Etsy world, right?!</div>
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Wrong! (You knew that was coming, right?!) I started by posting some <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/FrenchPressKnits">FO's</a>. Many were projects I had whipped together for the Etsy shop, slippers included. The love from knitters started pouring in. Again, I was asked to write up the pattern and decided it was time to go for it.</div>
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So, that being said, let' talk a little about my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/french-press-felted-slippers">French Press Felted Slipper Pattern</a>. Can I admit that it's not your typical knitting pattern? I wrote this pattern long before I knew about tech editors and test knitters. My confidence in publishing came from the fact that I had knit about 200 pairs and could orally recite the pattern to you if I needed to. It doesn't look like a standard knitting pattern, and more like a step to step guide to making felted slippers, with many pictures along the way. Updating the pattern has always been on my 'to-do' list, but I don't want to completely lose what it is.</div>
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Anyway, soon after publishing my first couple patterns, I started to immerse myself in the world of Ravelry and it literally changed my life. Knitting became my passion, and the knowledge I acquired from forums, patterns, and conversations with other knitters taught me so much about this new obesession. </div>
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I stayed active with the blog and knitting, but 2010 brought more change for our family. 2010 was the year <a href="http://www.frenchpressknits.com/2014/05/bring-on-baby-knits.html">we became parents</a>. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_suvtEN0uP9c/TVHis8oZfKI/AAAAAAAABI4/zpn7EXp7fTk/s1600/Elise+in+turban.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_suvtEN0uP9c/TVHis8oZfKI/AAAAAAAABI4/zpn7EXp7fTk/s400/Elise+in+turban.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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At first, things were no big adjustment. I was on maternity leave and my very cooperative little one would sleep most of the day and I <a href="http://www.frenchpressknits.com/2010/12/best-christmas-outfit-ever.html">knit</a> <a href="http://www.frenchpressknits.com/2011/01/friendship-story.html">like</a> <a href="http://www.frenchpressknits.com/2011/01/elise-in-clara.html">the</a> <a href="http://www.frenchpressknits.com/2011/02/just-like-mom.html">wind</a>. But before too long, I was back to work. </div>
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And then soon after that, Elise was on the move. And somehow, we managed to have 3 kids in 3.5 years.</div>
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If all this wasn't crazy enough, there were even more changes coming for the Bernardi family. For the past 10+ years, my husband and I have worked with the high school youth group at our church. Through these interactions with students, my husband decided to go back to school to become a teacher. He left his family company, where he has worked his whole adult life to gain experience in a school system and then enrolled as a full time graduate student.</div>
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So the big question over the past few years has been: Where does FPK fit in to our lives?!</div>
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To be continued...</div>
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<script src="http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>French Press Knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07437740864852050313noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5542845774706050825.post-26397005309580756102015-01-20T16:43:00.002-05:002015-01-20T16:44:33.543-05:00Late Resolutions<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-sHRS8xAqwfk/VL7GxJRLCpI/AAAAAAAADCk/yKjZLb0GFNY/s640/blogger-image--2098972480.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-sHRS8xAqwfk/VL7GxJRLCpI/AAAAAAAADCk/yKjZLb0GFNY/s640/blogger-image--2098972480.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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So I do realize that January is halfway over, but some things need to be said, even if late.</div>
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The last few weeks I have been pondering different goals I have for the year 2015. I never was much a a 'resolutions' person in my younger years, and I'm not sure I'm quite there yet- but I welcome the idea of a fresh start and reassessment of skills and perspectives.</div>
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When it comes to knitting, there are always new techniques I would like to learn, along with an ever growing list of things to make. In 2015, I am putting it out there, making it public. If nothing else, you all can hold me accountable and hopefully just saying it publicly gets me moving. I don't want the list to be too extensive, and I know I never have time to design and write and knit all the things I would like, so I decided I will focus on skill and techniques.</div>
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So, with that, here is my list of knitting goals for 2015:</div>
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1. Learn Brioche</div>
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I have long loved the brioche stitch and would love to incorporate it in to designs. I have been eyeing up some classes on <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/">Craftsy</a>, and even have a gift card for a free class. Time to put it to use! Have any of you taken either of the Craftsy Brioche Knitting classes? There's <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/class/brioche-knitting-made-easy/497?_ct=sbqii-sqjuweho-dum&_ctp=1&rceId=1421789558656~7t7hbfbg">Brioche Knitting Made Easy</a> and <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/class/explorations-in-brioche-knitting/145?_ct=sbqii-sqjuweho-dum&_ctp=2&rceId=1421789646969~pqnk44q1">Explorations in Brioche Knitting</a>. Recommendations?</div>
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2. Learn Double Knitting</div>
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<a href="http://www.theyarniad.com/">Hilary</a> tells me it's not too hard, she has a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/spots-cowl">couple</a> <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/dots-cowl">cowl </a><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/arrows-cowl">patterns</a> that utilize the technique beautifully- I think it may finally be time to read up and cast on!</div>
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3. Steeking</div>
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Yes- it freaks me out. I don't think I'm alone, but I also think, that like many things in knitting, it's not going to be as difficult as it sounds (maybe?!?). There are many projects I could implement this one on. I would love to knit myself a fair isle cardigan... my goal is to make this happen, by way of steeking, in 2015.</div>
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What about you- any 2015 knitting goals? I'd love to hear them and see progress along the way. Let's hold each other accountable in this knitting community! I plan on posting my goals, and progress on them, on <a href="http://instagram.com/frenchpressknits/">Instagram</a> along with the hashtag: #2015knittinggoals . Will you join me?</div>
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French Press Knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07437740864852050313noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5542845774706050825.post-79128457658527125572014-12-26T08:00:00.000-05:002014-12-26T08:00:07.170-05:00Stocking DuosThank you for all the lovely feedback on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/FrenchPressKnits/claras-stocking">Clara's Stocking</a> and <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/FrenchPressKnits/stocking-leftovers">Sweater Set</a>. Sometimes I feel a little guilty when I go on a bit of a knitting binge and get so many positive comments on my projects and how quickly they fly off my needles. I think that maybe just posting pictures of the FO's is unfair, that as a full disclosure I should also take pictures of the piles of laundry, mail, and toys that accumulate during my tunnel-vision knitting frenzy. And with that being said- you know it exists. In order to put time in to knitting, other things are definitely sacrificed (but I am off work for 2 weeks this holiday season, so that helps, too!).<br />
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Today I wanted to share each of the kids stockings and the knits that have gone with them.<br />
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First up, Elise:<br />
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Elise's stocking was actually designed after the outfit she wore at her first Christmas. Since she was born at the end of November, and much of December was spent figuring out (rather trying to figure out) the whole parenting thing, there wasn't a stocking in time for her first Christmas.<br />
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You can flashback to Elise's stocking <a href="http://www.frenchpressknits.com/2011/12/elises-2nd-christmas-stocking.html">here</a>.<br />
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Sam, on the other hand, had his stocking first, and the hat soon followed. Actually, Elise and Sam both got hats to match their stockings the year I knit Sam's (<a href="http://www.frenchpressknits.com/2013/01/christmas-hats.html">find pictures here</a>).<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xLFplUvc1hk/VJcjI49KsmI/AAAAAAAAC_Q/HeNlpAskFyU/s1600/Stockings%2B004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xLFplUvc1hk/VJcjI49KsmI/AAAAAAAAC_Q/HeNlpAskFyU/s1600/Stockings%2B004.JPG" height="640" width="512" /></a></div>
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I know, I know- Sam only got a hat. The green yarn from his stocking has been discontinued and I've had trouble finding a green to love just as much. That being said, his hat has gotten more wear than the girl's stocking knits combined. He still wears this little hat with the brim down, as pictured. It's kind of a knit that has grown with him. To see the flashback to Sam's stocking, check out <a href="http://www.frenchpressknits.com/2012/12/a-family-of-four-stockings.html">these</a> <a href="http://www.frenchpressknits.com/2012/12/it-begins.html">posts</a>.</div>
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And last but not least, we have these recent knits. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TdIU5oV95T0/VJcmi4n9iMI/AAAAAAAAC_k/YCWgp4IDmbE/s1600/Clara%2B6%2Bmonths%2B074.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TdIU5oV95T0/VJcmi4n9iMI/AAAAAAAAC_k/YCWgp4IDmbE/s1600/Clara%2B6%2Bmonths%2B074.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-onBMdLhPMhs/VJcmjZv3hjI/AAAAAAAAC_s/obIOQCyJJQs/s1600/Stockings%2B006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-onBMdLhPMhs/VJcmjZv3hjI/AAAAAAAAC_s/obIOQCyJJQs/s1600/Stockings%2B006.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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So it's not just Clara that has the bonus stocking knits, it has actually become a little tradition in our house. I figure that as the kids grow up and have families of their own, I will still have their stockings, but they will have something to take with them. What about you, what do you plan on doing with all the special things you make for your kids? Do you save them, do you have a special way to store them for later use? I would love to hear your thoughts!</div>
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<script src="http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>French Press Knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07437740864852050313noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5542845774706050825.post-62355931345478642772014-12-24T23:28:00.000-05:002015-12-10T22:37:44.582-05:00Merriment Bonnet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QD1i8pKAOIA/VJuKCHF_LII/AAAAAAAADAQ/MNndYNcRWnc/s1600/image3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QD1i8pKAOIA/VJuKCHF_LII/AAAAAAAADAQ/MNndYNcRWnc/s1600/image3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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It's Christmas Eve. The kids are tucked in and the house is quiet. I've been off work for almost a whole week and feeling refreshed. The past few days have been filled with sweet moments, old friends, and plenty of knitting. <br />
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And so, as my heart is full, I want to share a little of my merriment with you. <br />
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So, I've been working feverishly the past couple days in order to write up this bonnet pattern to share with you, my readers. <br />
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Click over to <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/merriment-bonnet">Ravelry</a> to find more information and a link to <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/merriment-bonnet">download the pattern for yourself</a>, or just <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/merriment-bonnet">add it to your queue</a>. Happy Knitting!<br />
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<script src="http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>French Press Knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07437740864852050313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5542845774706050825.post-82498630487198316422014-12-22T10:00:00.000-05:002014-12-22T10:00:01.137-05:00When You're on a Roll<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gBNKAKM-7hQ/VJcbI5LSt5I/AAAAAAAAC-E/V5ZgZXlUmss/s1600/Clara%2B6%2Bmonths%2B038.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gBNKAKM-7hQ/VJcbI5LSt5I/AAAAAAAAC-E/V5ZgZXlUmss/s1600/Clara%2B6%2Bmonths%2B038.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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Sometimes, when I like something I'm knitting I just don't want to stop.<br />
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So I keep knitting.<br />
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And so it went last week.<br />
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Not once.<br />
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But twice.<br />
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Just in time to take some 6 month (6 month?!) pictures. Convenient, no?<br />
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More details on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/FrenchPressKnits/stocking-leftovers">Ravelry</a>.</div>
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<script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit_main.js?PIN_16425" type="text/javascript"></script><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit_main.js?PIN_16425" type="text/javascript"></script><script src="http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>French Press Knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07437740864852050313noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5542845774706050825.post-67727006522436111072014-12-21T14:05:00.006-05:002014-12-21T14:05:49.981-05:00Stocking Conclusions<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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It was a process...<br />
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But I finally picked my colors.<br />
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And with the help of many of you on <a href="http://instagram.com/frenchpressknits/">Instagram</a>, who helped me decide on color layout...<br />
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I was able to see this project through to completion.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7WszQgDpGVM/VJcT_K3Y_iI/AAAAAAAAC8g/NucsGwDNyA8/s1600/Stockings%2B003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7WszQgDpGVM/VJcT_K3Y_iI/AAAAAAAAC8g/NucsGwDNyA8/s1600/Stockings%2B003.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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But that's not all... more tomorrow :-)</div>
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PS- Find yarn info and more details on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/FrenchPressKnits/claras-stocking">Ravelry</a>.</div>
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<script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit_main.js?PIN_16425" type="text/javascript"></script><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit_main.js?PIN_16425" type="text/javascript"></script><script src="http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>French Press Knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07437740864852050313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5542845774706050825.post-84058230965992749912014-12-12T15:15:00.000-05:002014-12-12T15:15:54.918-05:00At it AgainHere I sit, less than two weeks before Christmas, and my mantle looks a little something like this:<br />
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At this moment, you might think, "Oh! How festive and charming. And what lovely hand knit stockings!"<br />
To which I would reply, "Oh thank you- you do flatter me so!"<br />
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But on second glance, we all come to a realization.<br />
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"Hey... there are only four stockings, and your family now has fi..."<br />
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Yup. Don't even say it. Here in lies the problem.<br />
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So, for the past couple weeks, while I've taken my pretty little time poking around with different colors and designs, my mantle has looked the same- one stocking short.<br />
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It seems I have finally decided on a color scheme.</div>
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And last night I even cast on and knit a few inches.</div>
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And now it's time to knit.<br />
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Follow my progress on <a href="http://instagram.com/frenchpressknits/">Instagram</a>: <a href="http://iconosquare.com/viewer.php#/tag/stockingforclara/">#stockingforclara</a><br />
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French Press Knitshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07437740864852050313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5542845774706050825.post-19720327428853402582014-08-04T08:00:00.000-04:002014-08-04T08:00:04.305-04:00Clara in Clara<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Three and a half years ago, I wrote a post entitled, "Elise in Clara". How fun to follow up with "Clara in Clara".</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3MgaUTwBxS8/U9lTt8BDaCI/AAAAAAAACxM/al1gIGTGQUU/s1600/Clara+in+Clara2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3MgaUTwBxS8/U9lTt8BDaCI/AAAAAAAACxM/al1gIGTGQUU/s1600/Clara+in+Clara2.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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As you can tell, Clara has been enjoying her turn in handknit hand-me-downs, but I am thinking I will have to knit her her own "Clara Dress", not just because of the name, but because it is about my favorite little knit dress ever. I'm thinking something for winter, maybe in a hand dyed grey yarn?</div>
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And because it's so fun to compare and contrast, here's Elise back in January of 2011: </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_suvtEN0uP9c/TSIIM7yO0lI/AAAAAAAABEc/iAnYZy36hG4/s640/Clara+Maile+003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_suvtEN0uP9c/TSIIM7yO0lI/AAAAAAAABEc/iAnYZy36hG4/s640/Clara+Maile+003.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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Oh, how time gets away from us.</div>
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Read more about the project on the <a href="http://www.frenchpressknits.com/2011/01/elise-in-clara.html">original post</a>.</div>
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