Elfin Yarns & Tales of Adventure

PROGRESS

2010-09-23T10:13:00.000-07:00

September is already flying by and can you believe Autumn has arrived. Where did summer go and so quickly. Have you picked up your needles again? I have two stockings done and another getting there. A hat in brown and teal finished. A scarf with a cable design is growing or Christmas is making some progress. Sorry about the pictures having some computer problems.

The brown and teal is in Brown Sheep Nature Spun, colors are Hurricane Seas, Sedona Sunset, Roasted Coffee, and Mallard. The scarf is in Lion wool Ease blue mist.

www.brownsheep.com/

www.lionbrand.com/

Are You Making Progress?

2010-08-06T16:09:00.000-07:00

August has come, schools are beginning and fall will be here before we know it, not to mention Christmas. What is on your hook or needles, or are they still idle?

As you can see progress on Christmas stockings has been made.

Also other projects for Christmas gifts have begun, a cable scarf for a niece and a lap robe for another. Some are mindless all the time or part of the time, which means that they can be picked up and put down as needed and some mean counting and reading charts or patterns.

Yes, many things going at once, shawls, hats, stockings, lap robs and the list goes on. Maybe you will begin to look for the new fall colors in your favorite yarn, or maybe a new magazine will arrive to help you get creative, or maybe it is tine to visit you favorite LYS and find out what is going on.

Christmas In July??

2010-07-16T11:24:00.000-07:00

Yes, Christmas in July. I now have two stockings going along with some other projects. The one at the left is my own design and a mate to one i finished or one for a niece and nephew who are brother and sister. The red one is from a KAL from the holiday mystery gifts group.

group.yahoo.com/group/holidaymysterygifts

I think I am on the down side of stocking making, only need a few more and family will be done, and still a few friends need one or two .

New niece arrived to day so that means another to knit for. Needles never stay idle long in this location. Stockings, hats and shawls are going at this time.

Happy July 4th

2010-07-03T09:19:00.000-07:00

Summer has come and another birthday for our Nation is here. Hope your summer has started well and your July 4th celebration is spectacular as an Arizona sunset.

I have finished the baby blanket and it will be picked up by the grandmother to take north along with special wishes. Onto some other projects and hopefully another fo or two shortly. Several more stockings to do, several shawls are in the works also. Christmas will be here before we will know it. Had one customer who was on her last Christmas project for this year.

June Where is it going?

2010-06-24T17:13:00.000-07:00

Hard to believe June is almost gone and that means a half year gone. Summer has come and I am still knitting away. A little over a week ago , Patons new Lace Yarn came in and here is my shawl started in the color way called Porcelain. Being worked on a number six needle.

www.patonsyarns.com/

I finished my charity project, the BSj was mailed with a few days to spare. Hard to believe that what is pictured as a baby jacket in the photo on the lbottom comes off the needle looking like the photo on the topThe yarn was Bernat Jr, Jacquards and the color was City Kids.
www.bernat.com/

Yes another stocking is done, slowly i am getting all my required ones done through it has taken several years. At this point i have done 4 extra large, 10 large, 6 medium, 12 small, and 14 min over the last two and half years. Out of that number only 4 look alike, the set of grandchildren stockings for a grandmother.

MEMORIAL DAY

2010-05-31T10:06:00.000-07:00

May is ending on a grand note, being thankful for what has been given us at a dear price of human life. Many are over seas on this day meant to honor them. So take a moment and give thanks as you enjoy your day.

Have you begun to plan your summer and is your thoughts turning to the out of doors again. Flower and vegetable gardens, mountains, water in all forms, places to go and things that can be done?

It seems this year is traveling though at a fast pace. Summer is here, school is or will be getting out. Maybe it will be a time to share your skills and passion over the nest few months.

Progress is being made on my baby blanket and it seems July will come to soon. Another stocking is down to the foot, so it will not be long to the start of another. Stocking making is still being talked for a July KAL.

The green lace strip is the start or the bottom edge of a prayer shawl. This one has a edge made first and then you pick up the body stitches and work down to one stitch.

May Blowing Through

2010-05-18T10:36:00.000-07:00

It has been an unusual weather for May of cold days then hot days and the never ending wind.

Some days the weather has reminded me that Christmas always comes to soon --so I did start on my Christmas projects. As you can see I am still trying to get all the family members a stocking. The yarn used is Wool Ease by Lion

http://www.lionbrand.com/

But there is also a new one to be added in July, so I have begun a baby blanket, that looks like a

spring flower garden. July sounds far off, But June is just around the corner. Yarn is Red Heart Super Saver, in Honeydew, Aruba Sea, and Pinata,

http://www.coatsandclark.com/

Then there is a lace KAL being thought of also and I have been trying yarn and needles to have an idea of what I might do. The pattern calls for a sport weight and was thinking of Brown Sheep Nature Spun. The cone is Sedona Sunset and the skein is French Clay.

http://brownsheep.com/

Are you thinking summer projects. Hats, socks, scarves, are small projects that can be carried around, yet will make great gifts and you will be so thankful that you have done your gifts ahead of time.

Mother's Day

2010-05-06T12:15:00.001-07:00

Did you make anything for your special Mom for Mother's Day. Doily started at the end of April is ready for shipping and just in time for that special person in my life.

About a quarter of a mile of thread and thousands of stitches later it was finished. It was created in Aunt Lydia's #10 crochet thread color is Orchid Pink, because Mom likes pink, rose, and red. This twenty inch diameter doily should show well on the wood table.

http://www.coatsandclark.com/Products/KnittingCrochet/Threads/Size10/Aunt+Lydias+Classic+Crochet.htm

One project done, several to start, baby blanket for the one due in July, a KAL shawl in late May, and I need to finish my BSJ also. So are you putting up your needles for the summer, or looking for small take along projects for those summer events?

Christmas in April?

2010-04-19T09:51:00.001-07:00

Can you believe that the discussion for Christmas Projects has begun? Yes, Christmas is only seven months away. On customer has begun making hats for a Christmas Bazaar. I just got Mother's Day figured out and that is three weeks away. I decided to do my Mother a doily in pink and that is what is being showed in the picture, the beginning of a pineapple one.

Along with finishing income tax, I also finished two more hats that I had on needles.

I got a plan on my baby afghan which is needed by July, so check back shortly to see what is planned there. Yes, I have also begun planning for Christmas as there is still stockings needed and ? and ?. I also have another prayer shawl in the planning stage. I know some give up knitting or crocheting in the summer, but in here it is year around. Have i made you think about your Christmas giving?

March Blowing Out

2010-03-26T09:53:00.000-07:00

March seems to be marching along to fast this year and the wind has come up
again. There has been some discussion or brain storming in here the last few weeks on what customers are wanting to do . I have my own projects along with store projects. The above were suppose to be KAL but then plans got changed. The prune mix (purple) one is called Adia.

The yarn is Ultra Alpaca Light and the pattern are both from Berroco. The green one is an adaptation called Lily from the lilly of the valley pattern out of Interweave's Knitted Lace of Estonia and the light silver/lavender on as you can see comes from Wrapped In Comfort from the Martingale Co. pattern is Bigfoot. The light green and the lavender yarn are from Brown Sheep Nature Spun. The one on the right has plans of being finished soon as part of a KAL and there are thoughts of finishing the other two also.

http://berroco.com/ http://brownsheep.com/ http://www.interweaveknits.com/

http://www.martingale-pub.com/store/

Then there are always other thing such as socks several ways. two on circular and one on dpns.

I have a sweater started in Wool Ease and the orange (Color is Red Hots) is Sock Ease both from Lion Brand. The other is Red Heart Heart & Sole.

http://www.lionbrand.com/ http://www.coatsandclark.com/

It seems projects abound at my location, I need to start a lap afghan for another baby due in July, have a bsj about 1/2 done, and then there is need of another prayer shawl also. I know the one from Christmas was well received.

February POOF Here and Gone

2010-03-05T08:53:00.000-08:00

February was a cold damp one with rain and snow storms all of the month. The beginning of the year is a busy time with much paperwork to be done and it is also inventory time.

I did manage to get a hat finished for my Mom for Valentine's Day. As she likes red this one was in a hand paint wool alpaca blend which should go well with the weather.

Another hat was started to try and get things caught up[. This one is in Red Heart Eco Ways

Which is a recycled yarn That is working up nice.

http://www.redheart.com/OurYarns/tabid/1281/Default.aspx

For a dear friend, a charity project was started, I choose for the BSJ a Bernat Jr. Jacquards in a color called City Kids and it is working up in an interesting way.

http://www.bernat.com/product.php?LGC=jrjacquards

WHere has Janurary gone?

2010-01-27T09:52:00.001-08:00

It seems that January just began, but February will be arriving shortly.

If you made a New Year resolution , has it been
forgotten already, Have you begun new projects or are you trying to work on and finish UFOs?

I have started a hat in the flat for those who do not seem to like dpns or rounds. The green one is being worked in Bernat Jacquards, The color is called Jade and the pattern is a basic stocking cap. It is coming up close to the pattern shown on the label. I am also doing another in the round,

http://www.bernat.com/product.php?LGC=jacquards

I finally got to try the Premier Yarn-The Deborah Norville Collection Serenity Sock Yarn in Cinnamon. It is knitting up nice and the color way reminds me of fall, maybe I should have chosen a spring one as that is not to far off, but I was thinking socks for an Elf and could not see him wearing pastel.
http://premieryarns.com/yarn.php?id=121

Your thoughts on spring, I finished the green stole or scarf on January 6th and it does look like spring.

New Beginnings or is it a repeat?

2010-01-02T07:45:00.000-08:00

Hard to believe the old year and the last two weeks flew by. Another FO was sent a little late, another mini stocking done. This and its mate was the trying of a new pattern and needs to be adjusted if it is used again, Green scarf or narrow shawl lacks 4 inches and it will be gone also.

Other projects are on needles or yarn is being looked at to begin new projects also. Still need a few more hats There is a red one on the needles and a purple surprise for a niece who has waited patiently for several years for something from her uncle. Can not tell as she might peek at this sight.

Have you begun your New Year by thinking of things to be done or things that need to be finished. Or are waiting to see what the new year brings that you just have to have?

Was The Day Before Christmas

2009-12-24T12:14:00.000-08:00

and Yarn Elf is trying finish what can be for family and friends. Needles are flying and yarn is dancing to knit 2 color a, knit 3 color b.

As you can see my table has several unfinished projects that will not make the shipping today

How did you fair on your Christmas projects?

Since September This elf has finished one red shawl, 2 large stockings, 2 medium stockings, 7 mini stockings, 3 children stocking caps with fair isle design, 2 adult stocking caps with fair isle design, 2 roll brimmed hats, 1 lace hat, and has 1 wide green scarf about 3/4 done, one medium size stocking 3/4 done, 1tam started, and one mini stocking half done.

. .

Yes it has been a busy time and no I never get all I want or need done. This year things got changed in October for plans and things were added. Mailed one special stocking and was concerned it had not arrived as promised by the post office, but arrived today. Some are making the trek with a Grandpa, Grandma, and Aunt. So you can an elf use many ways to get things where they need to be. Also you have to be careful what you say around an elf as yes, he did get a sheep for a special person and another got her red shawl two years later.

Christmas Progress

2009-11-24T08:31:00.000-08:00

It has been a busy time in the shop and the deadline for Christmas has begun.

For a special friend who is a pistol toting, hog riding but still a special lady,getting ready to semi-retire, and who has mentioned several times the need of a red shawl, one was created in Berroco Ultra Alpaca Light in the redwood shade. The pattern by Evelyn Clark was called Swallowtail Shawl and was knit on a number 10 Susan Bates. It was a spur of the moment thought and given early for holiday enjoyment.

http://www.berroco.com/shade_cards/ultra_alpaca_lt_sh.html

http://www.evelynclarkdesigns.com/pdf/Swallowtail.pdf

Then my dear Mom had a birthday and her things is hats, can never have to many. So it was time for a special one. So I chose the Paton's Angora Bamboo is the Dusty Rose color and adapted a pattern from the Luxury Yarn One Skein Wonders by Storey Publishing.

http://www.patonsyarns.com/product.php?LGC=angorabamboo

http://www.storey.com/book_detail.php?isbn=9781603420792

Then as you can see from the below picture stockings and other things are being done.

And this new addition to the store will be our store mascot. He has a ball of yarn on his lap and has a scarf going. Yarn Elves always have things going and surprises up their sleeves.

Chaos In the Yarn Shop

2009-09-15T10:30:00.000-07:00

Yes, chaos in the yarn shop. Along comes fall and a busy schedule becomes even busier.

Do to several request several lines have been expanded and one new one added. So it is time to move. redo and expand.

Part of the redo means painting the final small section, putting up shelves, and a peg board wall.

Finding new homes for some of the yarn, adding some of the new fall yarns and colors also. There is never a dull moment in the shop but there is a lack of time to get all done and keep up with the ever changing market.

I have not been very good at keeping you informed of projects going on, at day's end I wonder where the time has gone. At left is an Entrelac hat band being worked on along with several other projects.

I will have to bring all up to what is being done more often

Summer Projects

2009-06-02T13:45:00.000-07:00

Has the beginning of summer made you think of other things to do besides knit or crochet.

It seems that some are seasonal project doers and some of us are die-hard all year around.

In the shop we have changed the display to reflect the sunshine and flowers in bloom. (Thanks YV for your help) In Arizona the sun makes the days warm-- 100 plus is normal for now and the months to come for awhile. Yet there are a few of us who still knit in those temperatures. Socks, hats and scarves are small take along projects. As you can see I have another hat going for my sis' mother-in-law. It seem pink hats are in for my family at this time.

I am also getting ready to start another sock. Do you have a favorite way and pattern to knit socks? Are you one of those who has never knitted socks? Or maybe you are one of those who does not understand the joy of knitting a pair of something.

There have been several inquires as to where is the sock you are knitting, so I will start a basic sock and maybe some of those who asked about socks will join in and learn about sock knitting. They can be knit toe up, cuff down in many styles or patterns, on double points, circular needles, even straight needles, and one or two at a time.

Playing Catch UP

2009-05-12T10:22:00.001-07:00

Where do the days go it seems like only a few days ago was Christmas.

The reason for the above picture was a request for a pink hat by Mom and sis's mother-in-law so they could be like the great grand kids. One done and another started. Mom got hers for Mother's Day. The yarn used here is Bernat Jr. Jacquards. And yes it did knit up to the picture on the skein well.

About a half skein, knitted in the round on #4 and #6 needles.

http://www.bernat.com/

Also an update on the Lily project, come a little slow as income tax and record keeping do get in the way of knitting. I have one of the main patten done in this picture.

At the shop we have restocked some of the sock yarn so there can be socks knit as a summer project. Where did

spring go, as school is out here next week. A lace scarf would also make a nice summer project.

There were some nice solids and twist ones in the mix of Fortissima Socka.http://www.skacelknitting.com/

From Winter to Spring

2009-03-24T13:57:00.000-07:00

It seems to bee an extra busy first of the year, in the yarn shop, there is the record keeping side and inventory is a required must. But there is always some knit time.

At right is the beginning of a shawl from the Wrapped in Comfort by Alison Jeppson Hyde and published by Martingale & Company

http://www.martingale-pub.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=628

The Pattern is called Bigfoot Shawl and the yarn is Nature Spun finger weight in Lavender Cliffs.
http://brownsheep.com/ns.htm

On the counter a friend, Yarn Vixen, has arranged some on the new yarn. Patons Bamboo and Silk which is soft and silky, Lion Organic Cotton, Moda Dea Vision and Bamboo Wool, and Red Heart Heart and Sole to entice the customers. Thanks for your input, Yarn Vixen.
http://www.lionbrand.com/

http://www.patonsyarns.com/

http://www.coatsandclark.com/

I have also take a little time to to try the Berroco Ultra Alpaca Fine and their scarf pattern Adia. This picture does not due justice to the fine heather color. Depending on which color you place it beside as to which color comes out. Though I have only done a few rows, it seems like a nice pattern . Will have to share more again so you see what a nice scarf it will become.

http://www.berroco.com/shade_cards/ultra_alpaca_lt_sh.html

NEW YEAR

2009-01-19T13:27:00.000-08:00

Along comes a new year with many things required to finish out the old year. There are end of month books, end of quarter books, end of year books and of course inventory along with the other day to day things.

I have also decided to brush up on my knitting skills to better help my customers along with the other things going on in the life of a yarn elf. I have decided to take the basic knitting course from The Knitting Guild Association and there is the possibility I might take it a step or two beyond. http://www.tkga.com/

I did finish some of my hats for my nieces and my Mom and my sister's Mother-in-Law would like to match their great-granddaughters. so I have a couple of more to knit.

With the new year there are new projects projects planned. I have begun to design a heart scarf for a possible knit along and I also have a scarf started from "Knitted Lace of Estonia" as another choice. The project chosen from this book is "Lilly of the Valley Scarf"

http://www.interweave.com/knit/books/Knitted_Lace_Estonia/

Merry Christmas

2008-12-24T09:46:00.001-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS

There is excitement in the air today as all make the final preparations for their holiday doings.

As you can see progress is being made by Yarn Elf. Though a few things may not make it.

Some small stockings are done and were put into a kit for giving

Hats are being worked on for my sister's three granddaughters. They should keep some heads warm and make them look like the little angles they are. Well most of the time.

Another purple and white (with a touch of hot pink) stocking was finished

As you can tell there is always something being done in the workshop. Some times some things are a little different such as the purple stocking which was a special request.

Hopefully your special gifts are on the down side and you have time planned with the special people in your life. That is what started Christmas as we were special to God so that he sent his own son for us.

Busy Time

2008-12-13T08:02:00.001-08:00

It is a busy time in the shop. Packages are being wrapped for customer pick-up, items boxed for shipment so a customer can finish her project, or it might be a Christmas package wrapped and shipped. At this of the year we get to be involved in many different Christmas or Holiday gifts and traditions. It is a time of learning as well as excitement as no two years are ever the same.

Some of my own projects are near completion. Mr. Snowman is almost finished in this shot. He will hold candy canes for the visitors to my parents home.

He was finished and shipped. At his new home he will find a friend, Mrs. Snowman was made last year and her apron has pockets to hold goodies also.

At this time of the year can you have to many goodies?

(As a note my Mom was so thrilled to get him.)

Then I have the mate going for my purple and white stocking given last Christmas. This one has snowballs, snowflakes, and snowmen as the theme. Yes she likes some snow, as she spent time in snow while going to college.

Along with the current going ons, it is also required to begin plans for the new year which is fast approaching. Maybe a shop KAL or two. Then there is also all the end of the year things which have to be done.

So how are your holiday projects coming?

Giving Thanks

2008-11-26T13:54:00.000-08:00

The holiday season will officially begin tomorrow. It is time to reflect on what we have to be thankful for and to also remember to not get so engrossed in the tasks of the season not to enjoy this time of family and friends.

First everyone should be thankful of the country they live in and for all those past, present, and future who have, are, or will serve to give you the precious gift of freedom. Then you have a family and special people in your life, some you deal with on a daily basis and some only on occasion. Due to some up and downs this year I have gained the gift of a few extra extra special people in my life. Family should always be special. What do you have to be thankful for? Health, food on the table, a hobby you can share, or a year that has been good for you to name a few things?

Yes, it is a busy time as the pictures below show, things are being worked on the season fast approaching. There was a customer in a few days ago who was making Christmas gifts for her friends, because she was wanting to share with them for their special day. This may not seem strange till you consider she is Jewish. The friend with her said that they were going to share Hanukkah -a learning time for both.

The first picture shows the Tweedle Dee Project. One skein knitted, as you can see the color repeat is long. This would make an interesting sweater.

Stockings are progressing along, heels turned and foot to begin. A gift that gives for many years.

Wishing all a HAPPY THANKSGIVING and many happy memories ahead in the holiday time.

Thanks to some special friends for the gift of friendship and support, Yarn Diva, Yarn Vixen,Yarn Elf Substitute, and Lupe.

LACE LACE AND LACE

2008-11-19T14:12:00.000-08:00

The discussion in the work shop the last several days is what kind of lace project to choose. I really like this one and this one and this one. Should it be a big project or a small. Will I get tired of repeating this pattern for the ? time. What kind of yarn to use ? Alpaca? Silk? Wool? Would lace work for a shop knit along in the new year?

What started this discussion was the arrival of the February Knit N Style and Interweave's Knitted Lace of Estonia.

The Lace Diamond Shawl in Knit N Style is very eye catching and would be a boost to the winter blues in the early spring.

But not to be out done there are some nice lace scarf patterns along with shawls in the Knitted Lace of Estonia. Check out their Webb sites for more details

http://www.interweave.com/knit/books_knitting.asp

http://www.knitnstyle.com/

On the shelf is some of Skacel Merino Lace, that would work up wonderful in some of the patterns. Also there is some fingering weight both in skein and cone in Brown Sheep"s Nature Spun which covers some of the other projects.

http://brownsheep.com/ns.htm

http://www.skacelknitting.com/s.nl/sc.2/category.8781/.f

You will have to stop back and find out what was decided. Will it be one project or two? Which yarn won my heart for which project?

What Happening

2008-11-15T08:14:00.000-08:00

As you can see customers have there own ideas for Christmas. Here are two creatures that have been brought in for display as Christmas toys. There is a snake in Light and Lofty and a turtle in Super Saver, both yarns from Red Heart Yarn. They are made up as they go, by this creative friend of Yarn Elf, who is my substitute when I am gone, His nick name is Yarn Elf Substitute.
He likes to do his own thing in crochet and does quite well without patterns, though I do offer suggestions on crochet technique to help him out so it looks more professional or finished.
http://www.coatsandclark.com/

Some books arrived yesterday to help with gift giving thoughts and maybe some small projects.
One or two skein projects can work up fast. Or Maybe the books could become a Christmas gift.
Another thought could be a book and the yarn for a project out of the book.

To update you on one of my projects. The snowman
candy cane holder, has the snowman finished. All he
needs are the arms sewed on and the face applied. There is a crocheted hat and scarf to finish him off. He should be a great hit with the great grand kids this year as well as there other visitors.

Need To Be Inspired

2008-11-12T14:50:00.000-08:00

New magazines have arrived to tempt you. If you are as a some of us who do it all or have many creative outflows. Anna maybe your magazine. It reminds me of Work Basket of the bygone days. Is your stash not only yarn, but beads, embroidery floss, or material to name a few things.

You crochet, knit, quilt, or do cross-stitch, etc. and you can not go anywhere near any kind of sale because there is a chance you could add to your collection of future projects. Then you might check this one out if this is your profile.

http://www.handknitting.com/Verena_Knitting_p/verenaf08.htm

http://www.annacrafts.com/

http://www.knitnstyle.com/

Also Knit N Style the February 2009 is in. Can you think 2009 yet? That is two knit magazines to inspire your fall knitting. If you are up to a lace challenge Knit N Style has a shawl called Lace Diamond Shawl, that might fit this need. Or if you are think a new sweater for you or your love one check out the Verena issue, it has a nice mix of fair isles, cables, and lace patterns.

As for Yarn Elf , he is still working on Christmas and progress is being made. There are several stockings in progress and a snowman candy cane holder that my Mother wants

Then there are projects from others to share so maybe you will be inspired to share your talent with others. One is a crocheted hat with ear flaps and mitten set and the other is a crocheted place mat.

Projects To Share

2008-11-08T13:38:00.000-08:00

Time to be inspired and to share a project brought in for show and tell before it is given as a Christmas gift.

This lap robe size afghan is also the perfect size to give a child to carry around. It is done in Caron Simply Soft Brites and a pattern from their web site. The blocks have different stitch patterns so you can not get tired of doing the same thing over. She chose Lemonade, Limelight, Watermelon, and Grape. The pattern is Soften Your Mornings.

http://www.caron.com/color_cards/cc_brites.html

I am sure the special girl getting this special gift will enjoy the colors and be kept toasty warm also. Thanks Yarn Vixen for sharing your project with us.

Also an up date on the Tweedle Dee Warp. It is knitting up soft and the color way is interesting as you can see by this updated picture. It is working up quick so you could have one done for your holiday wear. No time for a Christmas project? How about a small simple project for the hour you watch TV.

Christmas Surprise In November

2008-11-05T09:51:00.000-08:00

This young lady is a regular at the shop and has been going to college along with working. So I and another of her dear friend had a discussion back in April because I wanted to do something for her graduation which will also be close to Christmas. So one of my projects for the year has been a graduation/Christmas gift. She had been looking a pattern in Knit N Style , April 2008 issue called Slant on Nature so that became the project which was going to become a kit of knitted pieces hat would require assembly so she could make it her style.

http://www.knitnstyle.com/

Next I had to find a yarn, she had been admiring Patons's SWS for awhile, could that one be used. It is an mix of wool and soy, so after playing with some the decision was yes. I liked the feel and the way it was working up. Next choice was color, I know some of her likes and dislikes. the one that caught my attention was Natural Geranium. The name went with the project title, and also she is a fan of Debbie Macomber so it just seemed right to use that one.

http://www.patonsyarns.com/product.php?LGC=sws

http://www.debbiemacomber.com/

After a few bumps in the road this year , you see the results of my knitting

Christmas would not be Christmas without a few surprises and I am sure she will enjoy her surprise for many years.

Progess For The Holiday

2008-10-30T10:06:00.001-07:00

This time of the year brings those out who are beginning to think of the holiday gift giving and the trend seem to be I want something useful but also want it to look special. There are many basic yarns as well as some yarns that could create a special project and still allow you to say within your budget range.

There are many nice books that offer small projects or one skein projects that would provide ideas that can go quick and yet be that gift that keeps on giving all year. Easy care for kids is something to think on, but school colors or their favorite color could be jumping off point. the same could be said about the special friend or coworker. Some offices are cold so the fingerless

mittens or leg warmers could be a special gift.

Do you have an elderly special someone one, lap robes can big just the right item and a 36 x36 square is about the right size for many, and they can also be thrown over the shoulders also.

YV, a special customer knew I had been wanting to try the Tweedle Dee to see how it worked up convinced me to give in and here is the beginning of the stole pattern off the skein I will have to share this as I get it further along. The size 13 needles seem big as it has been awhile since I have used that size and the yarn is knitting up soft. The yarn seems to have a long stretch before another shade comes along and pattern seems to be a chevron.

http://www.modadea.com/tweedledee.htm

Then I still have my special stocking project going on. I have one in a Fair Isle Pattern, one in color work, and one in Aran Pattern. I am converting a cross-stitch pattern to make one of my

stockings using some of her favorite colors. The

Aran is being done in a burgundy color. This is creating a rich looking stocking with bobbles, seed stitch, and twisted stitches. A cable can be used to create texture which looks very time consuming and real is not.

Check back often and see what is going on. You never know whar or when something will be shown

Preparing For The Holiday

2008-10-22T10:59:00.001-07:00

Yarn has begun arriving for Holiday Projects. Several boxes came in to supply materials for projects.

There was a limited special Christmas yarn in acrylic and cotton from Bernat. The cotton is Bernat Handicrafter Holidays Sparkle in red and white with a silver thread wrapping it. The acrylic is Bernat Happy Holidays in red and green with a silver thread wrapping it. Then of course you have their everyday yarn in red, green, and white. You can view their fine yarns at:

http://www.bernat.com/

Then we also received the Red Heart Eco-Cotton Blend which is a recycled cotton yarn and Moda Dea Tweedle Dee which is a shaded effect yarn. Both should make some fine gits for the hard to please. For more information check out their sites.

http://www.coatsandclark.com/Products/KnittingCrochet/Yarns/Medium/Red+Heart+Eco-Cotton+Blend.htm

http://www.modadea.com/tweedledee.htm

Tweedle Dee has a nice stole pattern on the label which takes only three balls and a pair of #13 needles. At 45 stitches it should work up fast and be a warm addition to your holiday wardrobe.

Have you been to your favorite place and wander it to see what is taking place?

Christmas Future

2008-10-20T12:49:00.000-07:00

Any holiday is based on things from the past, we expect certain foods or decorate because of memories. The things we make now will form the fabric of the future. That special person will remember you ever time that scarf, hat, socks are used. Homemade stocking are a reminder though the season of a special friend that is there in spirit to share this time of family and friends. I have been designing some small stockings for my sister with the thoughts of the grand kids in mind.

The books and magazines are out on the table to help get some ideas. The Debbie Macomber Friendship Shawl has some nice ideas for a quick gift, there are several knit on large needles (9, 10, etc). http://www.debbiemacomber.com/ that might be a thought. Interweave Press Knits Holiday Gifts and Knit Simple Holiday 2008 just came in to also inspire me.

http://www.interweaveknits.com/holiday/holidaygifts2008/

http://www.knitsimplemag.com/

Are you beginning to think of the memories you can make and share this season? Does something from your past come to mind? You still have time to create the next memory of the holiday.

Christmas Past Christmas Present

2008-10-18T09:43:00.000-07:00

Are you begining to think Christmas and the sharing of your knit or crochet talents? I enjoy sharing with family and friends and wish I had more time to do so.

As you can see from last year picture stockings was on the must do list, everybody seems to like them, my whole family wanted one. But do many knitters really knit them? Schoolhouse Press had one in a KAL. http://www.schoolhousepress.com/christmasstocking.htm which might inspire you. I also did an unfinished pair of a Gingerbread Boy and Girl (the shadows only) to create a kit so a special friend could make them her own. Maybe she will finish them and allow them to be shared with our readers.

If you are into mysteries and like to have quick knit projects this years KAL is going on-- check out http://groups.yahoo.com/group/holidaymysterygifts/ for some fun and Christmas gifts made.

Or if you want to do small Christmas Stockings, this site has great instructions and pictures to help you along the way. I knit some in an acrylic sport weight yarn so they are easy care. These make great tags for gifts, small gifts to give, or ornaments. They could be a way to use up some of your odds and ends also. I use easy care for those gifts that are given to those who do not realize wool projects shrink.

http://littlecottonrabbits.typepad.co.uk/photos/free_pattern/stockings6.html

Are you into crochet, I had one customer last year use the pattern from Coats and Clark/Red Heart Yarn and crocheted some. The pattern she use can be found at:

http://www.coatsandclark.com/cgi-bin/MsmGo.exe?grab_id=478&page_id=2885888&query=chochet+christmas+stocking&hiword=STOCK+STOCKED+STOCKINGS+STOCKS+christmas+stocking+

Christmas Before Thanksgiving

2008-10-15T16:50:00.001-07:00

As a child I remember no Christmas

before Thanksgiving. Now it seems to come earlier and earlier.

If you are into giving the hand made gifts of love it starts early in the year and closer to the holiday you will find the magazines offering quick projects to give.

I have been working on Christmas stocking for awhile. Most of mine are custom designed as to whom is receiving them and I have two sizes going.

I have a Mrs. Snowman (or as some say snow -women) with a hooded cape of fake fur (eyelash yarn) and muff. Also one is of the Fair Isle design in large or small.

I am always on the lookout for things that will create an interesting stocking and sometimes my color choice is different for Christmas. Last year one stocking that caused a big stir was my white and purple stocking for a very special niece, who likes angles and purple.

Then there are gifts to make like socks, hats scarves, mittens that can be an easy but special gift.

I have one sock almost finished. The self-striping sock yarn can make an interesting pattern as found in the rib, the pattern , and the foot. Stockings can be a good project to help you learn about socking making. A simple one in red and white stripes might be a good one to begin with. Yarn can be anything and any size needle will work as it does not have to fit and you only have to make one. Christmas Stockings also make a good gift that last for years, my Mom has a pair I made 30 years ago.

My Customers

2008-10-13T13:14:00.000-07:00

When you visit the store you might find someone from my neighborhood such as these two young ladies who do fiber arts. They come on a regular basis to browse the shop and look through the magazine and pattern books as well as to see what I have laying on the table. One has a sock project going called Big O and the other is planning on making some mini type Christmas stockings.

Then you might run into some one from Alaska, Ohio, Oregon, Minnesota, or even Canada. In the late fall, winter, or early spring there are winter visitors who spend time in the area or some stop by as they come and go on their winter journey. Then I have a very special young lady in PA who use to work in this neighborhood till she moved across the country. Yes I ship to her on occasion. You can find out more about her using this link
http://www.fibernating.blogspot.com/

Our customers are as varied as the ways to knit or crochet are. Some only knit, some only crochet,and some do it all-- knit, crochet, spin, weave, or cross-stitch to name a few of their talents. Yes there are several male in the area who do their own fiber arts.

My Neighborhood

2008-10-10T09:53:00.000-07:00

I am between Here's to Your Health (a health food store) and the Arizona Range News (the local weekly news paper office). This is one of the historical sights in town as it was founded in 1884. I can remember as a child when they were at press the whole block use to shake.

If you are in the mood to walk a quarter of a block to the stop light and a block down you are on Rail Road Avenue. The path down Maley has some museums as well as Rail Road Avenue. When I was a child the post office and the bank were located here also.

On Rail Road Avenue you will find a park on one side along with the railroad that runs through the town on the other are shops, Rex Allen Museum and the Friends of Marty Robins Museum, Rodney's Place -a food establishment that has been recognized in some national magazines, the movie theater, and a bar. On another corner is a railroad car, that is home to Big Tex, a restaurant featuring barbecue and you can smell the wonderful smells early in the morning as he prepares for the day.

On this avenue located at one end is the oldest continually operating store in Arizona or so they claim The Willcox Commericial.

The park on the opposite side has a memorial to those who gave their lives so we might have our freedom and another memorial to Rex Allen .

Or you can choose to drive pass this and visit the Chiricahu National Moment which is located in the mountains. You will travel from the high desert though cattle ranches and end up in pine and oak forest. It was home to Chiricahua Apaches and Buffalo Soldiers as well as some interesting rock formations and over the mountain is Portal and the home to hummingbirds where many travel to see them as well as the country of Mexico.

As you can see I live in an neighborhood that can be a fun place to visit or work.

Location Location

2008-10-08T09:17:00.000-07:00

They say location is important. So when a company or sales rep calls (520-384-3197) and ask where I am and I respond Willcox, AZ, they say where?

I again state 116 S. Haskell Ave., Willcox, AZ. It is located in southern Arizona in a county called Cochise. It is the land of history and legends. It was a big cattle shipping town, there was gun fights just up the street at one time. This is where Wyatt Earp and his family roamed, or where the Apache leader Cochise lived. Or more up to date this was the home of Rex Allen.

You can drive about a hour from Tucson and find us. The store is fifty miles from New Mexico or eighty miles from the country of Mexico. Tombstone and Bisbee are just down the road. This area has something for everyone, bird watchers flock here in the early part of the year, winter visitors come in the fall and go rock hounding among other things, families go camping in the mountains around us and families come to visit the U-Pick Farms and Apple orchards in the Fall.

So if you are traveling I10 head to Southern California; Phoenix, Arizona; or El Paso, Texas the store can be found on Business Loop in downtown Willcox, AZ. Just look for the dark peach and green building when you hit the stoplight down town.

NEW LOCATION NEW BEGINININGS

2008-10-05T17:27:00.000-07:00

After eleven years in one location the store was required to move and due to the economic times it was time to downsize, so begins a new chapter in my life. It seems life is always full of changes.

The yarn (with a little hobby & craft items added) shop and I are getting settled into our new location with hopes to share our adventures of knitting, crocheting, shop happenings, and the things of life with those who wander across our blog.

Here you will find WIP, UFO, and some finished projects. Christmas time has started now in the shop and it is always an extra busy time in a Yarn Elf's workshop. Christmas would not be Christmas without some surprises and those hand-made gifts that speak of love and caring just as the first Christmas gift did so many years ago.

Come wander the aisles, meet the people who also wander them, see new yarns, and enjoy the tales of a yarn and hobby shop, a place for the whole family to visit.

You are welcome to stop by any time and find out what is happening in a small shop in south west and the things from the world which have an impact also.