Monica Knits

Recently I wrote about using stitch markers for the Lily of the Valley Socks. They are even more useful for the "Queen Silvia Shawl", which has even more lily repeat patterns. The pattern, found in Nancy Bush's book "Knitted Lace of Estonia," recommends 2 stitch markers for separating the garter stitch borders from the central lily lace pattern. I found it helpful to use additional stitch markers for separating the lily repeat patterns as well as the initial cast on. So far I have knitted 56 rows: the garter stitch border and 3 pattern repeats. I made two changes to the pattern instructions. Read more ....

I recently read and purchased the book, "Folk Socks," by Nancy Bush, which I enjoyed just as much as her book, "Knitted Lace of Estonia." Not only does the book have a fascinating history of sock knitting in many countries, but it explains the process, terms, hows and whys of sock knitting very well and I highly recommend it. It is a good resource if you are new to socks, and it has some inspirational socks, for new and experienced sock knitters. I was in college when this book was published; otherwise I'm sure I would have added it to my collection long ago. Read more....

Red Wing BlackbirdThe red-wing blackbird made me think of the many budding artists and designers I have met at the College for Creative Studies (CCS) over the years. Often the automotive design instructors and students wore black, yes and the ubiquitous turtle neck, but they carried themselves with style and cuts that framed their faces and their personalities. There may have been an accent pin or scarf as well. As a result, you remember the face, the smile, the person, with the clothes serving as a backdrop. This set me to thinking of the needlework designers that have influenced my work either directly or indirectly.

Lily SocksWhen my sister and I were 3 and 5 years old respectively, we picked wild flowers--lilies of the valley to be precise, for Mother's Day. These were my mother's favorite flowers; she thanked us profusely and asked where we found them. You see, we lived in a highrise complex, devoid of flowers.