Monica Knits

I've always loved boatneck collars and I find sewn, crocheted and knitted tees very practical to wear year-round under suit jackets, as well as without a jacket in summer. Since I have narrow shoulders, this silhouette also creates the illusion of broader shoulders without the need for shoulder pads. Besides, I prefer to have shoulder pads in the tailored jacket, not the underlying top. This light weight tee is one size to fit bust sizes 32-38". It features cap sleeves, a checkerboard grid lace pattern, and 2 x 2 ribbing for the neckline and waist- and armbands. The yarn is soft, light-weight and comfortable as well as enjoyable for knitting.     Read more ...     photo coming

I finally got around to photographing the Knitter's Vest, albeit months after I finished it and started wearing it. I washed it quite a few times and have worn it while knitting and cuddling with the dogs in the evenings. I should have photographed it before I wore it, but you still get the idea. The collar is especially comfortable because it wraps your neck with a soft double layer of knitting (outside plus inner facing) and keeps drafts away. This one is knitted in acrylic, and is a golden honey color--not the most practical color for playing with dark brown haired dogs (short-haired pointers). I use the pockets for carrying things and if I were to make this vest again, I would make the pockets slightly wider and the vest longer.

Click here to read the "Oat Couture Village Vest" review: Knitter's Vest.

Cream CablesI saw the pattern in the Lion Brand catalogue and it was love at first sight. I find long, knitted dresses practical for travelling. The color, yoke with horizontal braid, and vertical A-line cable design all grabbed my attention. So as not to mislead you, I happen to really like oyster white and find it a flattering, versatile color. Lion Brand^R offers you the choice of buying the pattern and yarn separately, but the kit was convenient and the color perfect for me. This pattern was rated at an experienced skill level and I would have to agree as I had to make some changes in both fit and pattern. It took me 80 hours to complete, including modifying the design and construction methods. Read more....

As you may have noticed from this blog, many things inspire me, from nature to patterns I like, regardless of pattern age. I inherited my mother-in-law's magazines, books, patterns and yarn stash and have fond memories of buying yarn and, designing and buying patterns with her. In addition, she grew up on a prairie homestead and became a very adept seamstress and needleworker, with lots of experience. She managed to swap farm chores with her brothers and sisters, in exchange for socks, mittens and other garments. I also have her mother's collection of handwritten patterns (one room schoolhouse) and some vintage crocheted lace that once adorned night dresses and pictures, so I have a lot to inspire me as well as a tradition to uphold. Read more... for information on the raglan sleeve top.