I can't believe I knit a sweater. Mostly because I never thought I would have any desire to do so. Before I started knitting I didn't have that much understanding as to why you would want to knit one. It seemed like the work, time, and money it would take just couldn't be worth it. It's funny because I'm sure that's how many non-quilters feel about quilting! I had little/no interest in it until a couple of months ago. Having knit plenty of hats, cowls, and a couple shawls, I was itching for another challenge. And that's how I decided on knitting a sweater.


After consulting with my knitting gurus, Amanda + Jacey, I decided on the Inland Cardigan (from Journey) by Jane Richmond for my first sweater. It fit the bill perfectly: classic style, bulky weight yarn, and it's a cardigan, which made fit less of an issue. I used Malabrigo Mecha in Plomo. It's gray, I knew it would be super cozy, and I already knew it wasn't itchy (for me).


I have to admit, I had a blast knitting this. It did take a while, but not as long as I thought. And there were long stretches where I wasn't able to work on it. Even with those breaks, it only took a little over 3 months to make. Not too bad! It was exciting working on something a bit more challenging and brand new. I did raglan increases for the first time, alternating skeins on the body and in the round on the sleeves, successfully used magic loop, and learned to make button holes! I definitely made some mistakes along the way, and it's not perfect, but that's okay. I made it!


A few days ago, when I knew I was getting very close to finishing, I went ahead and ordered yarn for another sweater. I couldn't help myself! I'm addicted now! I chose the Harvest Cardigan by Tin Can Knits. I'm using Tosh Vintage in Moonstone (my favorite colorway!). I'm hoping to swatch for it this weekend.


I will have to wait until the Fall to wear this sweater, but I am so proud of myself for making it. I feel like a real knitter now! For more info see my Ravelry.

Favorites

1. Sunshowers, 2. Summer Spin, 3. Roundabouts., 4. I won a full FQ set of Dashwood Studio's September Blue from Sew Hot online fabric shop. As I wanted to grapple with curves this year this seemed a perfect opportunity as well as create a quilt for Siblings Together., 5. Little Blooms 30 done, 6. Canyon Boulevard, 7. 17 done only 5 more to go. Then I have to work out what I am going to do with them. #lizzyhouse, 8. Diamond quilt, 9. FO: Beachy Lazy Sunday

Every week I go through my favorite photos on Flickr, and choose nine sewing/quilting related projects to showcase here. These photos and projects are not my own, you can find the original images and creators by clicking the coordinating links! If for any reason you do not want your project featured here, please email me and I'll remove it!

Happy Weekend!

All Points Patchwork Review + Project

My tv tray set up: 40wt thread, my favorite snips and wonder clips!

Happy Tuesday! Today I have the pleasure of sharing a review of Diane Gilleland's new book, All Points Patchwork. If you're not familiar with Diane's work, I recommend checking out her blog, CraftyPod! It's full of creative, crafty goodness.


Pinned in place and ready to stitch down.

When Diane approached me about reviewing her book, I'll admit, I was a little hesitant. I knew it would be lovely, but I have never been comfortable with English Paper Piecing. Then I realized that was even more of a reason to check it out! I have dabbled here and there with hexagons, but have never felt like I really knew what I was doing.


I finally learned which needles work best!


Filled with step-by-step photos. Also, how did I never know about the quilter's knot?!

All Points Patchwork goes beyond the hexagon and explores all kinds of different shapes. What makes this book so unique is that it is an idea book vs. a project book. It's full of great project ideas, but the focus is on technique and exploring the process. It is a true resource, and I felt really inspired after reading through it. The book discusses tools and materials, techniques, building your own patterns, and then is broken down into chapters focusing on one or two shapes at a time.


Ahh, this is my comfort zone, designing with shapes by computer!


I was immediately drawn to these shapes, and used them in my final design.

Rather than feeling overwhelmed faced with the thought of choosing a project to make, I was given the freedom to design my own! I hopped on the computer and designed a "block".  Knowing the book was filled with tips and tricks on everything from knots and choosing thread color to basting complex shapes, I was confident I could tackle it.


Someone (me) didn't measure right the first time and put in too-short a zipper. Whoops!

I had so much fun making my block. As someone who isn't that comfortable with hand-stitching I was surprised by how quickly it came together! After I finished my block it took me a while to decide what to make with it. At first I was thinking a mini quilt, but ended up making a new iPad pouch. The walls are pretty much covered in my sewing room, so that seemed a more practical use!


I really love these colors together. Also, our world here in WI is so GREEN right now!

I used prints from my Geometric Bliss collection for the block and other parts of the pouch. The block is top stitched down onto some linen. I used a combination of Pellon's SF101 Shape Flex and new FF77 Flex-foam interfacing to give it extra padding. I quilted the exterior pieces with Aurifil 50wt #2024 thread to give it some structure.


Side note: We have a picnic table in our front yard again, yay!


Just one more photo!

I am really proud of my finished project, and I feel confident that I could tackle a larger English Paper Piecing project in the future. This book is a great resource, and I will have no problem making room for it on my bookshelf for a long time. I am thankful that I made time to do something outside of my comfort zone!

Diane has created a website just for the book, check it out for even more resources: AllPointsPatchwork.com. You can find All Points Patchwork now at your local bookstore, Amazon, Powells, and Barnes & Noble.

Favorites

1. T-Color Drift, 2. DS dresden quilt, 3. GoWest2, 4. Ice Floes Quilt, 5. kiss my chocolate box, 6. string quilt baby quilt, 7. The Kelly Quilt, 8. High Tea Quilt Front, 9. Second pink wonky log cabin block

Every week I go through my favorite photos on Flickr, and choose nine sewing/quilting related projects to showcase here. These photos and projects are not my own, you can find the original images and creators by clicking the coordinating links! If for any reason you do not want your project featured here, please email me and I'll remove it!

Happy Weekend!