Blogger got me started blogging, but my days on this site are over. I have been updating both this blog and the one on my website for a year now. It is time to shut this one down. So for all my blogger readers, you can now find my thoughts and whimsy at the following link:
http://www.gingertwiststudios.com/blog-2/
I will still continue to post every Thursday. Tune in!
Saturday, 31 May 2014
Thursday, 29 May 2014
Another Busy Week of FOs and WIPs
And it has been another busy week at GTS HQ. Knitting, dye studio, and more knitting. Tuesday was another intense day spent in the dye studio. The results are mostly Delight 4ply with a sprinkling of Splendor 4ply, as well a new sock base (love!). The online shop should be updated again this weekend if you don't have time to come in for a peek in the woolly flesh.
And as I've just gotten in a new pattern shipment from Louise Zass-Bangham, I decided to cast on another Knit Night. I have continued to dream of having a bright yellow neck item, so I've decided to use Ginger's Hand Dyed Sturdy Splendor 4ply in the Liquid Sunshine colour way. This knits up as some seriously soft and squishy garter stitch, and keeps me cheery on overcast days like today. I also plan on doing a beaded cast off, as I have some aquamarine beads in the shop that would really pop.
I spent most of yesterday evening finishing up a cardigan. This pattern is available in the latest Navia Pattern Book available at GTS, and of course I made it cropped. This only took 4 balls of the Wendy Guernsey 5ply (2 in each colour). You are meant to add a 3rd shade on for the button band and cuffs, but I chose to just stick with this classy blue. Feel free to take a look at my Ravelry project page. Sewing pieces together can be a bit soul draining, but this project just reminded me how important it is to take the time to properly finish an item. For those of you not in the know, we are running the Finishing School Workshop again in September. What has been deemed my School Days Cardi is still blocking, but how cute are these coconut shell buttons?!
Not totally unrelated to knitting, I did go see the new Maleficent film yesterday. Very magical. *No knitting was completed during film.
The Wool of the Month, Excelana 4ply, has done really well. I am delighted to be keeping it around as a permanent instalment on my shelves. I'm still plotting another shop sample, as the Nile Green (delicious minty shade) has been calling my name. If you have been in the shop, you may have noticed I am missing 2 shades of the collection (Saharan Sand and Natural Alabaster). These should be arriving in this week. Hurrah for more Excelana!
And it shall soon be time to bring in the new Designer of the Month for June. Super duper excited for this one folks!
And as I've just gotten in a new pattern shipment from Louise Zass-Bangham, I decided to cast on another Knit Night. I have continued to dream of having a bright yellow neck item, so I've decided to use Ginger's Hand Dyed Sturdy Splendor 4ply in the Liquid Sunshine colour way. This knits up as some seriously soft and squishy garter stitch, and keeps me cheery on overcast days like today. I also plan on doing a beaded cast off, as I have some aquamarine beads in the shop that would really pop.
I spent most of yesterday evening finishing up a cardigan. This pattern is available in the latest Navia Pattern Book available at GTS, and of course I made it cropped. This only took 4 balls of the Wendy Guernsey 5ply (2 in each colour). You are meant to add a 3rd shade on for the button band and cuffs, but I chose to just stick with this classy blue. Feel free to take a look at my Ravelry project page. Sewing pieces together can be a bit soul draining, but this project just reminded me how important it is to take the time to properly finish an item. For those of you not in the know, we are running the Finishing School Workshop again in September. What has been deemed my School Days Cardi is still blocking, but how cute are these coconut shell buttons?!
Not totally unrelated to knitting, I did go see the new Maleficent film yesterday. Very magical. *No knitting was completed during film.
The Wool of the Month, Excelana 4ply, has done really well. I am delighted to be keeping it around as a permanent instalment on my shelves. I'm still plotting another shop sample, as the Nile Green (delicious minty shade) has been calling my name. If you have been in the shop, you may have noticed I am missing 2 shades of the collection (Saharan Sand and Natural Alabaster). These should be arriving in this week. Hurrah for more Excelana!
And it shall soon be time to bring in the new Designer of the Month for June. Super duper excited for this one folks!
Friday, 23 May 2014
May WIPs
Last week kept me busy with participating in Knitting and Crochet Blog Week, which was a lot of fun. It gave me a fresh perspective some ideas to use in my future posts.
Now the sun has come out, and I just feel like knitting something fun! Endless Rainbow by Martina Behm fits the ticket. It was an interesting start, which took a couple attempts. Now I'm getting into the groove of the pattern, and loving working with this yarn. West Yorkshire Spinners BFL is so soft and creamy. It's fun to penetrate this pureness with triangles and stripes of Aire Valley DK Rainbow Stripe by West Yorkshire Spinners. Delish!
This is also about the time of year that I start working on some Christmas gifts, just so I can do this gradually, and not in an absolute panic. I've started on Hunter by Tin Can Knits out of the New Lanark Aran, which is using up some of my stash. I've got plans to do another in the Brigantia Luxury Aran. The cables are actually quite simple, and look impressive enough. All the men in my life need to have this hat large and small!
This past Tuesday was spent in the dye studio plotting and scheming. I have dyed up something particularly special for the Indie Burgh Yarn Crawl. More info soon on that particular plot soon! I will update the online shop early next week with some new shades and such, so keep your eyes peeled for virtual squishing! In the meantime, I have gotten in 8 new shades of the Cascade 220 Superwash. These are also now available for perusal in the online shop. I'm still brainstorming on a sample to knit up for the shop in one of these new shades. Any thoughts?
Now the sun has come out, and I just feel like knitting something fun! Endless Rainbow by Martina Behm fits the ticket. It was an interesting start, which took a couple attempts. Now I'm getting into the groove of the pattern, and loving working with this yarn. West Yorkshire Spinners BFL is so soft and creamy. It's fun to penetrate this pureness with triangles and stripes of Aire Valley DK Rainbow Stripe by West Yorkshire Spinners. Delish!
This is also about the time of year that I start working on some Christmas gifts, just so I can do this gradually, and not in an absolute panic. I've started on Hunter by Tin Can Knits out of the New Lanark Aran, which is using up some of my stash. I've got plans to do another in the Brigantia Luxury Aran. The cables are actually quite simple, and look impressive enough. All the men in my life need to have this hat large and small!
This past Tuesday was spent in the dye studio plotting and scheming. I have dyed up something particularly special for the Indie Burgh Yarn Crawl. More info soon on that particular plot soon! I will update the online shop early next week with some new shades and such, so keep your eyes peeled for virtual squishing! In the meantime, I have gotten in 8 new shades of the Cascade 220 Superwash. These are also now available for perusal in the online shop. I'm still brainstorming on a sample to knit up for the shop in one of these new shades. Any thoughts?
Saturday, 17 May 2014
Day 6: Nana Knits
Growing up in the burbs of Oregon, I recall a lot of time spent at my Nana and Pappy's house. Their place was always where the whole family gathered for every holiday, birthday, and whatever else. Not to mention, they have a pool, so there was many a Summer day to be spent splashing around in their backyard.
We were always a crafty family. Not only does Nana knit and crochet, but she is a very talented sewer, baker (best cookies ever) and jigsaw puzzle extraordinaire. She is ALWAYS working on something. As a child I remember having a purple crochet blanket made by this lovely lady. I adored that thing, and hope that it is stored somewhere back at my folks' house (Ma, can you confirm?!). As I got a bit older I started making specific requests for various hand knit and crochet items. Then I thought, why don't I just learn how to perform this mystical skill myself?!
So it was around the age of 12 or 13 that I asked my Nana to teach me the magic that is knitting. I came to find out that this is not magic at all. Knitting is really a system of making loops upon loops that create a fabric...okay, so it is pretty magical. I'm also left-handed, and Nana taught me how to knit in this fashion. It was quite a challenge for her to teach me to knit backwards essentially, and I'm so delighted she did! Unfortunately I don't have any photographic evidence of this wee adventure. I really have my Nana to thank for where my life has lead to this point. Thanks Nana!
 |
| Wedding Day photo of Nana & Pappy |
We were always a crafty family. Not only does Nana knit and crochet, but she is a very talented sewer, baker (best cookies ever) and jigsaw puzzle extraordinaire. She is ALWAYS working on something. As a child I remember having a purple crochet blanket made by this lovely lady. I adored that thing, and hope that it is stored somewhere back at my folks' house (Ma, can you confirm?!). As I got a bit older I started making specific requests for various hand knit and crochet items. Then I thought, why don't I just learn how to perform this mystical skill myself?!
 |
| Nana at what she does best |
So it was around the age of 12 or 13 that I asked my Nana to teach me the magic that is knitting. I came to find out that this is not magic at all. Knitting is really a system of making loops upon loops that create a fabric...okay, so it is pretty magical. I'm also left-handed, and Nana taught me how to knit in this fashion. It was quite a challenge for her to teach me to knit backwards essentially, and I'm so delighted she did! Unfortunately I don't have any photographic evidence of this wee adventure. I really have my Nana to thank for where my life has lead to this point. Thanks Nana!
Friday, 16 May 2014
Day 5: Moth Assassination & Demolition
Do you take your knitwear and wool stash as seriously as I do? Summertime is the high season for moth incidents. Prepare yourself!
 |
| Moths = Pure Evil |
Team M.A.D. =
M-oth
A-ssassination
D-emolition
A-ssassination
D-emolition
*Cedar wood and lavender all also effective measures.
Thursday, 15 May 2014
Day 4: I am Miss Hiya Hiya
Good afternoon, I am Miss Hiya Hiya. Please refrain from any quips about how my first name is the same as my surname, thank you. After all, we hardly know one another and should keep things on proper and pleasant terms.
So yes, with that business taken care of shall we carry on? I suppose you will be wanting to know my purpose in life, duties, etc. First allow me to begin with a description. I am perfect in every way (rather like Mary Poppins). My blue satin exterior gives off a calm and cool aura.I am a also a very organized individual. Every thing and thought has its place, and mine are all in perfect order.
I spend my days as governess and general guide in life to Miss James. She would truly be lost without my guidance, as she has spoken these exact words herself. We do go everywhere together; tending shop, out for a quiet evening at the pub, to the park, or for a cinema outing. There are a few holidays in our history as well. We do enjoy one-another's company immensely, and as I said before, Miss James truly needs me. Why just this morning we rose a bit early to do a bit of work on the latest Simmer Dim Shawl. This shawl involves switching between two different needle sizes quite frequently on the border. I came to her aid as always, doling out the needle tips as needed.
In conclusion, I thoroughly enjoy my job and life's work. Thank you for your time and consideration.
So yes, with that business taken care of shall we carry on? I suppose you will be wanting to know my purpose in life, duties, etc. First allow me to begin with a description. I am perfect in every way (rather like Mary Poppins). My blue satin exterior gives off a calm and cool aura.I am a also a very organized individual. Every thing and thought has its place, and mine are all in perfect order.
I spend my days as governess and general guide in life to Miss James. She would truly be lost without my guidance, as she has spoken these exact words herself. We do go everywhere together; tending shop, out for a quiet evening at the pub, to the park, or for a cinema outing. There are a few holidays in our history as well. We do enjoy one-another's company immensely, and as I said before, Miss James truly needs me. Why just this morning we rose a bit early to do a bit of work on the latest Simmer Dim Shawl. This shawl involves switching between two different needle sizes quite frequently on the border. I came to her aid as always, doling out the needle tips as needed.
In conclusion, I thoroughly enjoy my job and life's work. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Wednesday, 14 May 2014
Tuesday, 13 May 2014
Day 2: Rachel's Online Dating Profile
Before Rachel met the mouse of her life, Gustavo, she tried her paws at online dating. Here is a look at her online dating profile. Please note that this is not how she hooked Gustavo.
The first thing people notice about me: My stunning stripes. My ears are usually curled over my eyes, as I can be a shy lady when amongst strangers. It takes a second glance to notice my glossy whiskers and curious eyes.
Five things I could not live without: Wool, cheese, chocolate, peanut butter, and gin. Och, gin should go at the top of the list.
The one thing I am most passionate about: Wool...and gin.
The three things I am most thankful for: Knit club (although I don't make it to the meetings as much as I would like), my pal Jess, and the fact that Jess does not actually own a cat (this would most certainly complicate our relationship).
I am looking for: A manly mouse that is also available to do my bidding, bring me tea and biscuits in bed, as well as support my fibre habit.
The first thing people notice about me: My stunning stripes. My ears are usually curled over my eyes, as I can be a shy lady when amongst strangers. It takes a second glance to notice my glossy whiskers and curious eyes.
Five things I could not live without: Wool, cheese, chocolate, peanut butter, and gin. Och, gin should go at the top of the list.
The one thing I am most passionate about: Wool...and gin.
The three things I am most thankful for: Knit club (although I don't make it to the meetings as much as I would like), my pal Jess, and the fact that Jess does not actually own a cat (this would most certainly complicate our relationship).
I am looking for: A manly mouse that is also available to do my bidding, bring me tea and biscuits in bed, as well as support my fibre habit.
Monday, 12 May 2014
Day 1: A Day in the Life of Rachel the Town Mouse
This is my post for day one of Knit and Crochet Blog Week 2015. Day 1 = a day in the life of Rachel the Town Mouse.
Life is good for a city mouse in Edinburgh. A typical day in the life of Rachel starts off with a moderate lie in, along with the occasional cuppa tea in bed. This lovely rodent then makes her way, along with her pal Jess to Ginger Twist Studio, thus starting her work day.
She then spends a majority of the day reclining in piles of wool and receiving visits from her current boyfriend, Gustavo. She doesn't really have to interact with customers all that much (she is shy), as she primarily observes and manages Jess.
Monday is knit club night at the pub. Rachel tends to get the party started in the shop with gin in teacups. The drinking sometimes starts too early and Rachel passes out or has some sort of accident before closing up shop. Her presence at knit night is therefore limited. Here she is earlier this year, after having fallen down the steps into the basement. She is quite a lush really.
Will she make it tonight? I'm sure Jess shall do her best.
Life is good for a city mouse in Edinburgh. A typical day in the life of Rachel starts off with a moderate lie in, along with the occasional cuppa tea in bed. This lovely rodent then makes her way, along with her pal Jess to Ginger Twist Studio, thus starting her work day.
She then spends a majority of the day reclining in piles of wool and receiving visits from her current boyfriend, Gustavo. She doesn't really have to interact with customers all that much (she is shy), as she primarily observes and manages Jess.
Monday is knit club night at the pub. Rachel tends to get the party started in the shop with gin in teacups. The drinking sometimes starts too early and Rachel passes out or has some sort of accident before closing up shop. Her presence at knit night is therefore limited. Here she is earlier this year, after having fallen down the steps into the basement. She is quite a lush really.
Will she make it tonight? I'm sure Jess shall do her best.
Friday, 9 May 2014
Wool of the Month: Excelana 4ply
Wool of the Month for May is a yarn that really strikes up the band for me. Excelana 4ply is a collaboration between Susan Crawford (the Queen of vintage) and John Arbon Textiles. The result is a squishy and delightful yarn with a bit of a halo in a very very vintage palette. Oooo that pink! And check out that refreshingly minty green! This is not only going to be a Wool of the Month, as I plan on stocking this yarn on a regular basis.Hurrah!
I wanted hold off on this post until I got a sample done up, so here it is. This is the Plaid Cap from Susan Crawford's A Stitch in Time Vol. 2
I used a 50gram ball of Excelana 4ply in Persian Grey, and had bits of King Cole Anti Tickle Merino Blend 4ply lying' in the shop stash. This worked out fine for the contrast.
With the mass movement towards sourcing locally, Excelana fits bill as it is most thoroughly British in every way.
I wanted hold off on this post until I got a sample done up, so here it is. This is the Plaid Cap from Susan Crawford's A Stitch in Time Vol. 2
I used a 50gram ball of Excelana 4ply in Persian Grey, and had bits of King Cole Anti Tickle Merino Blend 4ply lying' in the shop stash. This worked out fine for the contrast.
With the mass movement towards sourcing locally, Excelana fits bill as it is most thoroughly British in every way.
Thursday, 1 May 2014
Indie Yarn Crawl Update
So all is looking well in the world of yarn. You might spot a mention of the Indie Burgh Yarn Crawl in new issues of both The Knitter AND Simply Crochet. Woohoo!
And now a wee yarn crawl update for ye. In case you have not noticed, here is a completed copy of the yarn passport, both sides. These are now available for pick up in all participating yarny locations. If you are not able to pick up a shiny new passport before the event, it might be helpful to print one out yourself in the scenario there are none left on the day. Be prepared, as the saying goes.
And remember, you can still sign up for a lucky dip group if you fancy making it a social event and meeting some new crafters while being guided around the crawl after meeting up for tea (naturally). If this floats your boat, simply email your name, preferred start time (late morn or early afternoon) and mobile number to: indieburghyarncrawl@gmail.com
Otherwise, feel free to create your own teams and groups! Make it your own, and most importantly...enjoy yourself!
In the meantime, feel free to like the Facebook page and join the Ravlery group to keep up to date on your yarny chat.
And now a wee yarn crawl update for ye. In case you have not noticed, here is a completed copy of the yarn passport, both sides. These are now available for pick up in all participating yarny locations. If you are not able to pick up a shiny new passport before the event, it might be helpful to print one out yourself in the scenario there are none left on the day. Be prepared, as the saying goes.
And remember, you can still sign up for a lucky dip group if you fancy making it a social event and meeting some new crafters while being guided around the crawl after meeting up for tea (naturally). If this floats your boat, simply email your name, preferred start time (late morn or early afternoon) and mobile number to: indieburghyarncrawl@gmail.com
Otherwise, feel free to create your own teams and groups! Make it your own, and most importantly...enjoy yourself!
In the meantime, feel free to like the Facebook page and join the Ravlery group to keep up to date on your yarny chat.
Thursday, 24 April 2014
Knit Club Charity Knits: Project Pet Blankets
The members of the Town Mouse Knitting Club have taken it upon themselves to complete one charity KAL (knit-a-long) each quarter. I'm happy to report the first quarter was a success and the items have now been delivered. We decided to knit blankets for the boarders of the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home (EDCH). Here is a photographic journey.
Thanks to all the Town Mice who participated. Now we have moved on to preemie baby hats. If you are interested in joining (everyone is welcome) here is the pattern I have been using. It is top down, in the round, written by a lovely woman (C.C. Almon) at knit club, and is perfect for using up all those scraps! I've completed 2 thus far, and the deadline is at the end of June. Fancy joining in? :)
Thanks to all the Town Mice who participated. Now we have moved on to preemie baby hats. If you are interested in joining (everyone is welcome) here is the pattern I have been using. It is top down, in the round, written by a lovely woman (C.C. Almon) at knit club, and is perfect for using up all those scraps! I've completed 2 thus far, and the deadline is at the end of June. Fancy joining in? :)
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