Monica Knits

Whirligig Gloves Promise of SpringThe late winter colors of sky blue, brilliant sunshine, snow, dried grasses and leafless trees evoked the sense of spring awakening. The effect was both uplifting and fascinating and inspired Fair Isle style gloves in 4 cheerful colors: sky blue, cream, rust and yellow. Read on ... for Independent Designer Pattern (IDP) and yarn information.

There are many combinations of stitches that can be used to knit the fingers of a glove. I created a series of diagrams, with three different examples (patterns), to explain how fingers are created in knitted gloves. This is definitely the case where a picture (or several) is worth a thousand words. Using the approach outlined here, you will be able to create custom fitted fingers appropriate to the number of hand stitches on your needles.    Read more

Gold CollarThis gold, crochet collar takes a plain turtleneck sweater from day to evening (shown with dark brown sweater), although it was created to embellish a dark velvet evening gown, having a jewel neckline. The design is versatile; the stitch pattern allows for variation in length and width.

Confetti boaWhen I wore the confetti boa to a local art fair, a number of artists commented that the scarf and blouse looked like they were made for each other. So much for secrets! I've also worn it too the office with an antique rose blazer. This quick and easy scarf was completed in 2-1/2 hours and is suitable as a spring/summer accent.

The autumn weather was too cold for a sweatband and too warm for jogging or hiking with a woolen cap or waterproof hood. Fortuitously, I found an attractive alternative while researching gold yarns for a forthcoming project. There are often strong winds where I live, so I needed something that could keep my ears warm when needed and prevent bangs from blowing into my eyes. It has become my favorite cool (not cold) weather accessory. I wore it fall, winter and now in the spring.

Design Features. 1-3/4" wide, two color braided band, joined in the round with a knitted tube, of adjustable length/tightness. Buttonhole elastic, accessed via a knitted buttonhole on the skin side of the tube allows tightening or loosening the band to fit. Stocking stitch and 1 x 1 rib. My husband, who doesn't normally comment on clothes, immediately remarked at the band's attractiveness. My walking buddy bought some yarn so I could knit her one as well. Soon we'll be twins. (...photo coming...)

The patterns are listed by garment type, then subject: accessories, baby garments, socks, tops.

1. ACCESSORIES
2. BABY GARMENTS
3. SOCKS
4. TOPS
5. CROSS STITCH

BooksThis is a partial list of books in my library. The list will be updated from time to time. It is organized by needlework category: Knitting Patterns (General, Socks), Clothing Fit (pattern drafting, draping and fit), Stitch Patterns, Knitting and Needlework Primers and Color.

Some books were purchased for inspiration (color, design), some for specific techniques or patterns and some came from my mother-in-law's collection. Books referenced in this blog, are listed here.

1. KNITTING PATTERNS - GENERAL
2. KNITTING PATTERNS - SOCKS
3. CLOTHING FIT
4. STITCH PATTERNS
5. KNITTING & NEEDLEWORK PRIMERS
6. COLOR

Red Fun Fur ScarfI always pair the red scarf, with my red-orange car coat. Whenever I wear this combination, I'm always asked where I found this flattering scarf. The scarf really makes the coat pop, providing cheer in cold weather.

100 Mile Club SockThe hundred mile club comprised a small group of high school students who had run more than a hundred miles in a year; the name turned out to be more daunting than attaining the goal--though it was not a goal that I would have selected myself. With 3 hour-long running classes a week, rain, shine or snow, you hit the target before term was over. Cheating was not an option--the instructor followed you on bicycle.

Hundred mile club socks have hiked well over a hundred miles in each of 3 years. So if you wondered why they didn't look new in the photo, now you know. The socks are going on their 4th year and I'm amazed that the heels and soles have not worn out. With the lives of commercial socks now in months (no longer even a year), this is all the more amazing. As well, I'm more than half-way to the hundred sock club, though like the hundred mile club, this wasn't an intentional goal of mine.