hot off the needles this week ...

I proudly present to you, the Cloud Kisses shawl I mentioned I was working on in my last post. It's such a lovely design, by Libby of Truly Myrtle - a Kiwi Designer with some fabulous designs to her credit. I have really enjoyed knitting this. I love the fact that it is a really well written pattern, and also that it includes good video support for the last (border) section, which I discovered I totally needed when I arrived at that stage. The border was unlike any piece of knitting I have ever done before, but I really love the effect, wanted to achieve it ... and it was simple once I worked out from the video what I was actually supposed to be doing with the needles! After I got going on it ... well, I was an expert in no time at all. Yes, I brag a little, sometimes! But seriously, I barely even needed the pattern after that. All in all it was an interesting and fun challenge with a pleasing result, and it feels so good to have this beautiful design finished.

I remember also mentioning, in another previous post, that the yarn used was Panda Regal 4 ply Cotton. It's an Australian Brand, still currently available.

I used a total of 3 balls in the peach/pink shade (with about 1/3 left) and 2 balls in the creme shade (with a very small amount left). I haven't blocked the shawl yet and I am not even sure it really needs blocking! We shall see. I am leaning towards the fact that maybe a light steaming is all it needs, if anything at all. It feels so divine around my neck and shoulders, and it was a real pleasure to knit this cotton.

Both colours used were in my stash, and as also mentioned previously, sourced from a charity shop on one of my better 'hunting' trips! My only problem now, is that the shawl doesn't really go with any of my clothes! Neither are colours I normally wear, but having tried the shawl on, I think I would like to give them a go! So another challenge presents itself, and maybe a charity shop (outfit) hunt would be appropriate?! I shall see what I can do - and if I manage to find something suitable, I may even be persuaded to model the shawl with matching outfit on the blog one day! I worked in a charity shop for about 4 years, and believe me - what some people throw out truly adds weight to the saying ...

I hope to have my latest design finalised by the time my next post is due, so please stay tuned. It's another of my (Caron/Lincraft) Cake Designs - again using JUST ONE SKEIN. I was able to finish it recently also, over some welcome, cooler days - so I look forward to releasing the pattern very soon!