Mary Jane, Midge & Mink

I've Moved!

2009-08-10T19:10:00.004-04:00

Hi There! I've Moved!
Mary Jane, Midge and Mink have morphed into the one girl, Mary Jane....
You should be redirected after 10 seconds...If you can't wait...please visit me at my new website

MaryJaneMucklestone.com

don't forget to update your bookmarks and your RSS feeds...
See you soon!
Cheers!

Hi!

2009-08-05T09:26:00.006-04:00

Hi Everybody!
Oh yes...the new website!!! Soon, very soon....And it will come in bits and pieces so you have to keep checking back pretending that you have all the time in the world.

And there are LIMITATIONS...no more will I be critical of other websites....there are things called Shopping Carts and Templates clearly designed by people who don't shop, and are not at all curious about what they're buying if they do.

It's the case of the techy + the creative, rarely do the occur in one individual. Or I like to think that. I wish I knew how to do all the coding myself but...oh dear....I'm finding the computer program for making knitting charts provokes tears more than anything... and heaving sobs. Making Leelee the slumdog look up and howl along. Thank goodness there are no neighbors nearby, they'd call the police...

Save the Date!

2009-08-03T08:07:00.011-04:00

That's Saturday. After the Maine Boats Homes and Harbor's show, in Rockland at The Strand.

Lobster Queens and locals...even my plumber friend who supplies me with hoola hoop parts

I've got twins to show my outfits

With pointed hats natch

Doublemint!

Double fun!

Penobscot Marine Museum for more info.

I'm Counting

2009-07-31T18:47:00.007-04:00

St. Denis Magazine: My Breakfast Treat

2009-07-29T11:46:00.004-04:00

After spacing out twice....I met Astrig for breakfast today at Chase's Daily in nearby Belfast. I tell you, there is nothing like hanging out with Astrig to make you believe anything and everything is possible. She is the absolute most positive person, and not in an exhausting gushy way... in a "oh, but of course, I guess I knew it all along" serene way.

I brought Show & Tell:
My lucky advance copy of Veronik Avery's St. Denis Magazine.
Recognize my yarny picture on the right? with my byline? I'm sorry...I never get too old or too jaded to get a little thrill from that tiny print!

The magazine is beautiful, a nice little perfect sized dream of a magazine, including designs by
And Moi!.... I showed you yesterday.... Super Soul Cardigan.

There's wee articles, a photo-inspiration scrapbook and helpful illustrated techniques in the notebook section.

Keep an eye out for it...I having a feeling it will sell out fast!

Now I have to tell you a little bit about amazing, beautiful Astrig's pet project. She puts on a great, but not especially well known event called Fiber College, the weekend after Labor Day, at her family's campground in Searsport Maine, on the shores of one of the prettiest beaches in the state. She has a diverse group of fiber-fanatics as teachers and vendors, covering weaving and spinning, quilting and knitting...you name it, if there is fiber involved she wants to include you!

It is one of those little secret events, you'd love to keep to yourself but enjoy so much you just can't help spreading the word. Right now on the Fiber College blog Astrig is asking this year's instructors 10 questions to help us get to know everyone. Read them all but don't miss Gudrun's...I am so looking forward to meeting her...it is going to be a blast!

Since I'm teaching this year I better go fill out my questionnaire now! Yikes!

Stay tuned and I'll tell you about my class.

Super Soul

2009-07-24T08:34:00.007-04:00

Presenting....Super Soul Cardigan..... in Veronik Avery's new yarn St. Denis Nordique. The textured stitch gives a nice "sqooshy" depth, for a warm and comfy wrap sweater with hidden pockets. A hybrid of Mexican styling and Turkish motifs. Inspired by....Starsky and Hutch. Using beautiful Turquoise... for protection. You can knit your own tie-belt if you like.

I'm lucky to have this garment included in Veronik's first
St. Denis Magazine collection for her scrumptious crisp new yarn, great for texture, fabulous colors, coming soon to a Local Yarn Store near you. I think the magazine will be available in shops and from the St. Denis website which is still under construction.

I'm so glad it is still under construction, makes me feel better.

It's about time revealed what I've been up to. I'm working on a new website. It is a little slow going for me, since there is soooooo much to learn. I've had a lot of help from some wonderful people, some simply amazing friends that I have. I am so thankful.

The plan was to be up and running by next week and if all goes well it will be, or shortly thereafter. Knock on Wood.

So if I've been kind of silent on the knitterly aspects of things...well I've been learning about shopping carts and CSS code and things I'd really rather not have to know...you know how it is...when we built our house, my husband and I even put in the septic system ourselves....a challenging one....so yes, I do know how to build a septic system, for which I am proud, but I truly hope I never do it again...

Here's hoping this time next year, I'm a whiz what seems a mystery to me today.

Super Soul Cardigan's Bonus Hidden Pockets

Pictures courtesy of Veronik Avery

Isle au Haut Adventure

2009-07-17T17:26:00.006-04:00

At long last, and island adventure! One friend brought his daughters who are visiting from France, and the other brought her desire for chocolates.

We headed east to escape the rain which continued to fall upon the coast, waaaay out to beautiful Isle au Haut. First we visited Head Harbor, pictured above, where we walked to beautiful Long Pond for a little trout fishing...no bites, but plenty of foraging for chanterelles and wild strawberries on the roadside. Handy having French teenagers along, with their aptitude for mushroom hunting.

No sign of chocolates this end of the island so we went around, passing lighthouse and seals, to the town landing in search of the famed Black Dinah Chocolatier chocolate shop. Walking along the way, many people warned us that the elusive shop was closed and indeed as we approached the sign did say "shut". Give up? Not us. and we were rewarded. Steve cheerfully opened his shop for us, and the chocolates did not disappoint! My choice was a Sea Turtle, caramel and brazil nuts covered in dark chocolate, topped with a pinch of sea salt....mmmm

Salt + Chocolate

Yum

It Girl

2009-07-03T11:19:00.008-04:00

IHeartErin! Her T shirt says it all for me!

The "I love Erin photoshoot" with the unbeatable Chris Hartlove, the man responsible for the fantastic photograpy in many years of InterweaveKnits back issues.

3 members of the Dream Team reunite: Wilmington Delaware Rendezvous Edition.

Like we never let up!

Fun?

Well yeah!

Hmmmm....

2009-06-30T13:11:00.008-04:00

I'm not completely idle. I do knit. Do you have those months...I was going to say days, but really now, do you have those months when it seems like you get nothing done?

A lot of what I'm working at is new to me, and there are so many different tasks, that I feel awash....sloshing around....head above the suds for only moments at a time....

I'm Poodle-sitting this week, I do know how to do that. Auntie MJ takes no nonsense!

Who can work?

2009-06-20T12:07:00.005-04:00

Who can work with these lovelies to distract you?

Veronik Avery's has come out with a signature yarn, St. Denis which is scrumptious! A real "knitters" yarn, beautiful colors with stand up texture, and at the same time, soft to the touch. Vist her blog for updates where you'll see a little thumbnail of something you may recognize from my flickr pages.

When I think things have been busy around Chez MidgeMink, I think of Veronik.

Bauhaus

2009-06-17T15:18:00.001-04:00

My Bauhaus Fair Isle is back for a visit, and a picture.

World Wide Knit in Public Day!

2009-06-14T09:32:00.002-04:00

Emily and I participated: Belfast Maine.

Stripes

2009-06-10T21:41:00.002-04:00

Its stripey around here! Quit my day job...big ideas bursting out all over!

Fiber Frolic

2009-06-07T10:50:00.004-04:00

Fiber Frolic, originally uploaded by maryjanemidgemink.

Fun! Great fun with friends, lively entertaining conversation, tempting goods, handsome llamas, sheep and bunnies, wonderful food, including strawberry rhubarb icecream, mmmmm.....!

Mystery

2009-06-05T14:00:00.008-04:00

Didn't I promise never to undertake impossible deadlines? Never mind.
Tomorrow is the Fiber Frolic, Windsor, Maine.
Cyber-Friend meet up!
See you there!

Comfort on a Rainy Afternoon

2009-05-31T21:27:00.005-04:00

Will the rain ever stop?

At Project Spectrum, the Cardinal Directions are the theme. We're currently on East

Color: Yellow
Material: Wood
Season: Spring
Element: Air

Bring the on the brightness and sunshine!

Which is most Necessary?

2009-05-28T15:04:00.003-04:00

Groupies

2009-05-25T08:12:00.006-04:00

My friend Vicky and I traveled south to Brunswick Maine, to catch the lovely Ysolda Teauge
at the fantastic Purl Diva. I'd never been to the shop before, I can't really believe it myself. And though Vicky and I had a near-death experience turning left against Memorial Day traffic, I'd do it again!

Purl Diva is a dream of a yarn shop housed in a white Victorian with a wide porch, and ample comfortable seating inside.

Gracious and cheerful shop owner Ellen, the Purl Diva, put out a great spread of Scottish treats for Ysolda and her ever expanding group of admirers. There was shortbread, crustless cucumber finger sandwiches, scones and of course tea. Patient Ysolda, answered our many often repetative questions and told tales from her American Adventure.

The Yarn! The books! The needles! Vicky and I were happy to see our once imaginary and now flesh and blood friend Melissa aka loose ends. We munched goodies and got a tour of the shop which includes her yarns and roving.

Vicky succumbed to yarn, and I to Ysolda's cute self-published book.

Thanks Ellen and Ysolda! A fun event in such a great store. Purl Diva is homey, fresh with a welcoming winning, attitude, a reason to take slow Route One south from now on.

Can't Get Enough

2009-05-22T09:35:00.002-04:00

See more here.

The Ladies Afternoon Club

2009-05-20T08:52:00.004-04:00

You've probably seen this, but I just can't get enough of the work of the Mersham Afternoon Club...I keep going back for another look .

Louise Bourgeois

2009-05-19T21:41:00.004-04:00

At the Hirshhorn, knee height, tapestry and metal, with intriguing shadows. Evil, wistful, dear.

Straw Curves and Spirals

2009-05-18T10:11:00.003-04:00

Inspiration Everywhere and Anywhere.
A boat prow by Lake Titicaca Boatbuilders in Peru, and our tabletop at the Ethiopian Restaurant on 9th Street.

I found a Chullo on the boatbuilder.

Fun With Friends

2009-05-14T00:55:00.004-04:00

The same only different.

I spent two fun days with my friends, Madryn aged 7 and Taran aged 10. On Monday the boys and I visited The National Museum of the American Indian, where we saw the birch bark canoe.

The following day we ventured into Maryland for a look around Glen Echo, a former Chautauqua and later an Amusement Park... now a place for art workshops, dances and children's theatre.

Weekend of Awesome

2009-05-06T14:28:00.003-04:00

OK! The Summit of Awesome kicked ass! I know usually write with a little more decorum, but geeze-um, it was just such a great experience. Everyone was open and friendly and all about sharing information. I attended two lectures and a needle-felting workshop (follow this link and you can see me to the right of Charmaine who's wearing a yellow sweater). We got Swag! Sweet Summit of Awesome silk-screened cotton bags loaded with goodies, great inspiration for advertising, product ideas, and the spreading of good cheer.

The Maryland Sheep and Wool festival was a little overwhelming, like a county fair only all about sheep and no rides. I was looking forward to the Ravelry meet-up , which was packed, teeming with ravelers awaiting the Bob-Crew-Rock-Stars! Talented beautiful Ysolda Teague was also in attendance. A quick "hi" was all I could muster, before I had to flee...the excitement was killing me...crazy, but I get shy and flustered...living in the woods for so long, I don't do well in mob-scenes!
My afternoon class with Sally Melville was great. I swear this woman could teach a class in Tying Your Shoes and you would come out with a new appreciation of the process and some new clever tying trick you never thought of. The trick I learned was knitting backwards. I know I could have figured it out on my own, but with lightning quick direction from Sally, I was on my way!

Much more to tell...it will be drifting out in future posts...only a week left in DC...and so much still left to do!

Current Events

2009-04-28T10:24:00.011-04:00

All work and no play makes MJ a very dull girl. To remedy that, I've got an action packed weekend ahead of me. Friday I' attending TheSummit of Awesome, arranged by the bright and brilliant women of Hello Craft, right here in DC:

"The Summit of Awesome is 3-days filled with business seminars for artists and crafters, hands-on workshops, the D.C. premiere of the Indie Craft Documentary, Handmade Nation, and a Saturday night party....all Summit seminars and workshops will take place in the wondrous and vibrant independent businesses in MidCity (14th and U Streets NW)....home of DC’s coolest indie shops"

At first only 3 day Passes were offered, which conflicted with my other event, so I got tickets for the DC opening of the film Handmade Nation.

That other event?

The Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival

This is the event I've planned for since I arrived here, sending in my registration for classes soon after I arrived, snail mail, the only way its done...I've been anxiously awaiting my tickets for classes by Nancy Bush and Sally Melville...
waiting and waiting...
checking the mailbox...
making friends with the mailman...
nothing...
for ever and ever....
finally I sent an email inquiry...
They never received my registration and now the classes are full.

soooooooooo very disappointed.....old school fails me.....

I'm on a waiting list for Nancy's Nordic Color which I deeply and truly wanted to attend and I'm signing up for Sally's Saturday class, so I have at least one class the day I make the trek out to West Friendship.

The easy and instant-to-register Summit of Awesome has exceptional personal customer service. When I found out I could get a Friday Only pass, which includes tickets for the movie premier, I called to ask about a refund for my original ticket. Tina herself answered the phone!
The refund was processed in an instant!
Yay, way to go new school!
See you both places?
Yes?

If I have the umpf after the sheep show, I'd like to attend the Show of Awesome,
Cake?
sign me up!

Life in Washington DC

2009-04-25T11:27:00.003-04:00

Though I'm not knitting as much as I'd like...I never do...when I have a chance it is done here, with a view of the German Embassy through dogwood blooms.

In general life has been a whirl, of increasing intensity. Big plans afoot.

The poodlicious ones keep it bounding along, amusing and action packed.

I took a break and hit a rummage sale this morning.

Score! $4, vintage Frye boots, made in USA, hooray!

A Dally in the Gardens

2009-04-17T10:40:00.011-04:00

When a sparkling sunny day dawned after days of rain, I took a break and spent the day as a tourist.

Susette suggested the gardens at, Dumbarton Oaks in nearby Georgetown.

A lovely way to spend a sunny day, thank you!

The gardens, were a collaboration between Mildred and Robert Woods Bliss the owners, and esteemed landscape gardener Beatrix Farrand that began in 1921. Including formal and informal, gardens and "outdoor rooms" it covers 16 acres, and includes elements of French, English and Italian gardens the three admired.

The gardens range from formal, near the house, getting progressively less formal the further you travel down the slopes and away down the hill.

Charming paths, terraces and allées take you from one theme to the next.

My favorite, was the Lilac Circle, a small quiet place with comforting tiny spring bulbs and the heavenly scent of lilacs. Here I spent a happy half hour knitting. As I left, I heard a chortle of delight "I found the pretty place!". Looking back, screened by foliage, I saw a tiny garden fairy, arms outstretched spin and twirl in the circle! Bliss. Soon joined by her family, I was lucky to have caught such a magical, joyful moment of pure childhood abandon.

Garden hours are 2:00pm-6:00pm, the absolute worst for picture taking, but I've got more here.

What Glue Stick is For

2009-04-13T16:17:00.006-04:00

I make my charts the old fashioned way, by hand. I cut and paste a lot.

What software for mac do you recommend? I'm thinking of modernizing my design process.

My pencils will be lonley.

Ditty Bag

2009-04-11T21:30:00.001-04:00

Well, Julia showed her's so you may as well see mine. I've provided a complete description of the contents on flickr , with notes detailing all.

My dear tools are conveniently housed in a clear half moon shaped bag which once held a cosmetics gift, long-long ago. Plastic yes, but I can see everything, which I like. I go for circles. I'm missing post-its which are usually in there, used for marking where I am on a chart.

People are most curious about the compass...I say it never hurts to know what direction you're going. The bonus? it is spot on for this years Project Spectrum: Cardinal Directions.

My friend Beth gave me this snazzy "Tone Up" box, perfect for my favorite Clover "pac man" markers.

And where would I be without my chi-chi-chi-chibi? Holding some deadly sharp pointed things and my treasured bent tapestry needle. I scorned these bent needles until Sally Melville showed the the way, and I've never looked back. They make a world of difference in seaming and other tricky sewing.

Cherry Blossoms?

2009-04-11T20:38:00.006-04:00

Or are they Apple? They were directly across from the Whitehouse in Lafayette Square which strangely, has a statue of equestrian Andrew Jackson at the center of it.

Lafayette Park has been used as a race track, a graveyard, a zoo, a slave market, an encampment for soldiers during the War of 1812, and the site of many political protests and celebrations. We were part of a citizen-organized protest to reform the banks, but there were also 2 different groups of Iranians, an Anti-Nuclear encampment and a Buddhist with a drum, just to name a few. And it was raining.

I don't know, I'm a sucker for a national monument. I love seeing all the families and tourists from all over the country and all over the world posing for pictures in front of the Whitehouse, it makes me happy, I could watch them for hours.

Cherry Blossom Time

2009-04-07T22:48:00.010-04:00

I saw them!

My impulse was to take the bus, but a car with GPS was offered, so what the heck, the lovely voice of Ms GPS would guide me to the spectacle of the Cherry Blossoms. I imagined a leisurely walk along the Tidal Basin and through the parks under the graceful bows of the blossoming cherry trees.

It was fun driving in. Down through Georgetown, with all the wonderful architecture, it was hard to keep my eyes on the road. Past the Washington Monument and a glimpse of the Mall.

Then I saw them, curving around the Tidal Basin. I was under them...the blossoms nearly past, petals fluttering in the breeze like snowflakes...

The next thing I knew traffic sped up and I drove around in wild circles, honing in on parking lots I'd looked up online....only to find access was all blocked off...

I drove in larger circles hoping to find other parking...oops! ...almost into Virginia...oops! ... into an embassy's driveway...Now I was driving in zooming rush-hour, along with drivers hell-bent for home all going the wrong way in the street, which I guess must be fine at certain hours. I found it unnerving.

I gave up.
Tomorrow I'll take the bus, have that long relaxing walk and maybe visit some of the great places you suggested to me. Thank You so much, I really appreciate it!

Working Holiday

2009-04-04T11:50:00.003-04:00

Hey All,
I'm in Washington DC for a bit. Any top suggestions? Yarney and otherwise?

New Favorite

2009-03-28T14:30:00.006-04:00

I have a new favorite photography website, lens culture which introduced me to the work of Ingar Krauss. I wish I could invest in this portrait. I love it. I love her. I love her outfit. What about her shoes? I love her shoes and feet. Those little squared toes lined up.

Wait to you see lens culture's book selection....
heart-stopping.

Fuchsia Macaroons

2009-03-27T22:26:00.003-04:00

Time for a cookie break. I fulfilled a deadline, knitting for nearly 72 hours straight...sheesh...it felt good to get out and walk around the sunny city of Montréal....we had the $10 dinner at Fuchsia...flowers in every dish...all the back issues of Martha Stewart–from the start, and, a favorite book " The Family of Man".

and least I forget...a sweetheart of a dog!

Escaped Swatch

2009-03-24T07:30:00.002-04:00

Felt, originally uploaded by maryjanemidgemink.

Escaped into the wash.

Creative Director Kate and I were trying to move into the Blue and Brown territory. I really didn't have enough of those colors in my arsenal, so I headed bravely toward Brown and Green.

At last, happy and satisfied with my color choices, the crafty swatch escaped into the wash, and felted. Felted nicely I must say, not too thick, sturdily flexible, remember that about Sunday Knits Yarns. I needed one more swatch which found me still working with color placement, I went with the bottom top, just below the double-espresso break...Hmmm I could use a double espresso break right about now. Cheers!

Luke's Diced Vest

Koo koo Banana Head Swatch

2009-03-23T08:25:00.003-04:00

I mixed it all up, grabbing colors I hadn't tried....

Swatchland

2009-03-20T07:15:00.009-04:00

The continuing saga of "Luke's Diced Vest...In Swatchland"

I hate it when blogger won't format things properly. Apologies.
I swatched and swatched.

I really liked the pumpkiny part so I made the one below....

I loved this swatch, you can't see it well in the picture but it has a lovely halo of fuzz, due to Sunday Knits Yarns Angelic which has a smidge of angora in it.

Kate wanted me to try one less stripey... It really isn't stripey in real life, however, since most people will only see it on the screen, and understanding the perils of magazine photography, I forged ahead... I just started grabbing yarn and going for it.

Lordy, I got more stripey...

to be continued...

Luke's Diced Vest – Backstory

2009-03-13T09:10:00.015-04:00

These images started it all for me. I love this picture. It's from Traditional Fair Isle Kntting by Sheila McGregor, an oldie but goodie. For some reason I've always thought that Magnie was her cousin. I like to study the background of vintage knitting pictures, who is wearing that houndstooth blazer? The sister who knit Magnie the vest? Does Magnie play the piano?

When the call for Spring Twist went out, one request was a man's garment, one you'd like to knit, and one a man you know would actually wear. Hmmm. My husband shys away from fair isle, his style leans toward the Amish, which is good, and I understand. But I really wanted to knit a diced vest...So Luke Randall! Of course. Luke is unafraid to wear pink. Luke is a snappy dresser. So we made a deal, I make a vest and trade it for a painting.

Next comes the yarn choices...Kate Gilbert suggested Sunday Knits Yarns and we discussed a few colors, esspresso agreed to be one of the major colors. Carol, the color and fiber wizard behind Sunday Knits Yarns sent me the color card....I chose a few, mussed about a few more and Carol, the dear sent me lots.

But look what happened! I went wild with the reds...I think that Luke would wear this combination, I know I would wear it...but would readers dismiss it and declare it not manly enough...I started going for a bit of dark at the top...got some suggestions from Kate...and went back to swatching....

The colors I used for this larger motif roughly translate to the pattern as:

rnd 14: curry • chestnut
rnd 13: curry • chestnut
rnd 12: pumpkin • raisin
rnd 11: pumpkin • raisin
rnd 10: tomato • espresso
rnd 9: tomato • espresso
rnd 8: melon/berry • iris/pickle ( either or!)

Oh, Luke has a new website that isn't quite up yet, I'll keep you posted. Can't wait for the trade.

Heartfelt

2009-03-06T08:21:00.002-05:00

It's true... Luke's Diced Vest....not for my husband....

Twist!

2009-03-02T09:01:00.006-05:00

Spring Twist is up!

And in it you'll find something I made for my favorite painter Luke.

He has been waiting patiently.

There are loads of irresistible sweaters to knit, inventive toys, way cool baby blankets, socks and scarves; it's humbling to be included with this bunch of designers. As usual this issue includes wonderful articles. I confess a weakness for scholarly ones and find Kate Davies delightful article on Jane Gaugain, adding to my already severe longing to visit Scotland.....someday.....!

Happy Birthday SOSO!!!!!!

Heading to SPA in Freeport

2009-02-27T20:03:00.001-05:00

Heading to SPA in Freeport, originally uploaded by maryjanemidgemink.

Always at the eleventh hour, my friend Kristin and I are heading down to Freeport for the New England Textile Arts SPA, where participants do absolutely nothing but hang out and knit, or spin or get a massage...whatever we want to do! I may be suffering from a blasted head cold but no matter, we must sometimes make difficult choices!

See you there!

While I was Away

2009-02-26T08:31:00.001-05:00

Away in Puppyland that is. How time flies when your husband goes merrily off to Puerto Rico surfing, allowing blissful yet long days- into- nights knitting, plotting, planning and charting. The week flew with little I can talk about...which indeed makes for a dull blog...never mind...I'm sorry...Vacation over and a new adventure begins:

Miss Leelee

Yes, it is very easy and perfectly allowable to bring home irresistible puppies from Puerto Rico as carry-on baggage.

Life as we know it has changed. The nest is empty no more.

All yarn safely stowed above reach from tiny nipping teeth.

Hang on!

Happy Valentines's Day!

2009-02-14T16:52:00.001-05:00

Happy Valentines's Day!, originally uploaded by maryjanemidgemink.

Spring Preview! Sweet Tee!

2009-02-06T18:48:00.007-05:00

Finish it in a jiffy!
Interweave Knits Spring Preview is up. Yay!
Do you want to hear a behind the scenes story? I had planned to submit a proposal for this sweater when the call for Knits Spring 2009 went out. Things at home and work got busy as they will and I missed the deadline. To my surprise and delight Eunny emailed and asked if I'd like to contribute. Hell yes! Fortunately I had this design in mind. She suggested Manos Del Uruguay Silk Blends, a luxurious yarn I'd been longing to try out, and the color selection! visit Purl Soho and see if you can resist the shimmering presentation, make sure you click on each color, I can get lost here, just watching the colors change. Time passed and no yarn...I didn't want to pester, they are very busy folks there at Interweave....and then I got an email saying garments due next week! Yikes! Speedy exchanges, yarn re-ordered....tick tick tick....yarn arrives...it is the wrong yarn!....tick tick tick...yarn sent back....tick tick tick...at last! Yarn arrives and my husband and I are off to visit a friend on Tybee Island Georgia, right by beautiful Savannah... So there my friends, is where I finally knit this baby! Fortified with beach walks, Shrimp Grits and good company.
At first I was alarmed by the wild variation in the color, called Dove. In the picture it looked to be a uniform pale grey, in real life it ranges from ivory through pale pink to nearly olive. As I worked with it, I grew to like the moire effect the variation lends it, like beautiful Victorian Silk. (see the red-violet hat and ecru ballgown here, but don't miss the pink corset, or the floral dress stamped Biddeford, Maine).

Sweet Tee
by Mary Jane Mucklestone
Finished Size 30¼ (33¾, 37, 40½, 46¼, 48)" bust circumference. Sweater shown measures 30¼", modeled with plenty of negative ease for a close fit.
Yarn Manos del Uruguay Silk Blend (70% merino, 30% silk; 150 yd [137 m]/50 g): #3019 dove (MC), 4 (4, 5, 6, 7, 7) skeins; #3014 natural and #3049 henna (pink), 1 skein each. Yarn distributed by Fairmount Fibers.
Needles Body and sleeves—size 7 (4.5 mm): 24" circular (cir) and set of 4 or 5 double-pointed (dpn). Borders and neckbands—size 5 (3.75 mm): 16" and 24" cir. Adjust needle size if necessary to obtain the correct gauge.
Notions Markers (m); stitch holders; tapestry needle.
Gauge 19 sts and 35 rnds = 4" in St st on larger needle.

PS: Knitting, Saturday February 7th, Noon at my house!

My Desire....

2009-02-05T15:23:00.007-05:00

So cute! The busy bee, in candy apple red...though I'm tempted by the little mousie...

From KriKri

And I should get cracking on some olives for my dear ones.

They Came,

2009-02-01T17:17:00.003-05:00

We Knit

We Ate.

And had fun all at the same time...do come next Saturday if you can...there must be some cheap flights from Scotland and Spain....

If You're In the Neighborhood...

2009-01-29T08:06:00.000-05:00

Saturday January 31st and Saturday February 7th.
Do drop in, 12-4
email me for directions
Homemade soup and bread
Coffee and Tea
Yippee

Craftastrophe!

2009-01-24T10:39:00.008-05:00

My husband is usually not especially excited about knitting, but lately since he's discovered the time-wasting beauty of Stumbling, I've been getting some entertaining links in my in box. The above is my favorite from Craftatastophe: because not all handmade is pretty. Follow the link to read Rat Annabelle's story. Irresistible. Many other delightful and ghastly crafts on this site.

OK one other....Amazing artist Yeondoo Jung brings kids drawings to life....a must see! Now stop stumbling!

This Weeks Inspiration and the Results

2009-01-22T21:14:00.003-05:00

It's that joyful kindergarten stitch, short-rowed for a spiral top.

Wooly Country Graffiti

2009-01-19T19:55:00.003-05:00

Indeed it happened, not in a big way, but in a cozy-snowy-day-way, the first Yarn Bombing Focus Group: Midcoast Maine Chapter, took place. Nevermind that we all just knit on our own things, and had no agenda. We had soup and homemade bread, looked at magazines and knit.

Maybe this piece, which signaled my driveway, will come along to Rockland for the inauguration party. In it's close-up below, you can see there is a kind of presidential air about it, with gold stripes in the blue, red and white with snow.

Maybe not as ambitious as the South End Knitters piece that Julia of Moth Heaven mentioned... but mine was especially effective in the blizzard on Sunday, when even I couldn't find my own driveway without it.

Have a Big Celebration tomorrow!

Pom Pom Hat

2009-01-16T09:14:00.004-05:00

She goes public! Not the most successful color work...it just started getting good at the top, and then my head got to cold and I had to finish it...actually I wore it unfinished for a long while. I feel like a little old lady in it, like I need a tiny worn coin purse that snaps closed.

Tomorrow...my house..yarn bombing, and general knitting...Noon-ish on...

You Probably Know This Already

2009-01-12T21:01:00.004-05:00

The daunting tangle of unruly ends...never fear!

Part down the middle, so they are heading in the direction they would head off in ... if they did.

I do one side first, just tucking them in neatly, following themselves.

If you encounter and especially short one, weave in the needle first ...

... and then thread it afterward.

Don't clip the ends too close or they'll pop out the public side.

Ta da!

NOTICE OF COMING ATTRACTION!

This Saturday, January 17th, 2009

12 Noon-ish

KNIT IN at my house!

YARNBOMBING FOCUS GROUP : MIDCOAST MAINE CHAPTER

and just general knitting too, instruction if you need it, or want it. If you're in the neighborhood....

email me for directions maryjaneknits (at) yahoo.com

Ta!

Swatch 'til the Cows Come Home

2009-01-05T08:32:00.002-05:00

And then swatch a little more.

Happy Shiny New Year!

2009-01-01T22:30:00.002-05:00

Snow Again

2008-12-30T09:28:00.002-05:00

There's nothing better than being snug inside on a snowy night.

Feliz Navidad

2008-12-24T09:39:00.002-05:00

Little red birdy
Nesting in our Chrismas tree
Family at home

My Aunt, and Her Way of Life

2008-12-18T07:11:00.009-05:00

Remember my trip out west this spring? To Idaho where my hardworking, tough little dynamo Aunt Lori lives?

She has no electricity, relies on a generator when needed, which is powered as much as possible from a solar panel.

She and my late uncle Jay Quilliam are the hardest working people I have ever known. Cattle ranchers, who have always had a flock of sheep. Since my uncle's death 14 years ago, Lori has turned increasingly to her sheep as they are easier for her to handle alone.

Now her way of life is threatened because her property borders state land, Payette National Forest Land, where Bighorn sheep have been re-introduced, or wandered over from Oregon. I'll admit to being unclear about the fine details.

What concerns my aunt is the threat of the Federal Game Department of Idaho, introducing a ban on domestic sheep on lands bordering federal land, to protect the Bighorn sheep from disease. The issue is often made out to be greedy large sheep-running operations vs. a native species, which has a pricey hunting lottery attached to it. A complex issue to be sure. She's one of the little people who get overlooked, who don't have anyone to speak for them. She's not asking to use the federal land for her sheep to graze on, she just wants to make sure she can continue her livelihood on her own land, like she has done for the past 44 years. She loves her home, and would have little if any, income without her sheep.

Lori and I, ask that you please write to:

Payette National Forest

800 West Lakeside
McCall, Idaho, 83683

attention: Big Horn Sheep

or: http://www.fs.fed.us/r4/payette/

Click "contact"

And help her voice be heard.

And Now A Word From Our Sponsers

2008-12-04T21:42:00.002-05:00

These are the colors of Manos that I didn't use. I didn't have enough of any of them...they are the future...the future is in brights! Hold on!

I've been knitting a little something else that goes on it's merry way tomorrow.

Then, I can breathe again.

I'll share some brilliant adventures I've just had when my breath is caught.

–till then

Ciao Bella!

Happpiness via The Royal Mail

2008-11-23T15:49:00.008-05:00

What a treat! Included in an order from one of my oldest and dearest "imaginary friends", Julia aka Miss Frugality a special patchwork brooch as a gift. Thank You Julia, I'd like to knit a hat to match it. Visit her etsy shop, materialised and try to guess what I chose for a present.

....Not that Julia is really imaginary, but for some people, it is the easiest explanation of cyber-pals. I did have an imaginary friend in kindergarten, Janet Heikenin, (Kristine's sister) told all kinds of stories about her a-la Miss Tollipop...kept it up for months...the family believed...odd how she never came over to play...

Oh yes, before I forget, if you're in the Handmade gift mood, KriKri is having her annual sale on December Sixth, even online this year. Sparkling, shiny, colorful dishes to die for.

Exciting Update! Miss Tollipop is having a give-away! Visit!

The Time Has Come

2008-11-18T18:51:00.005-05:00

It's that time again.... procrastination time... I really want to knit a bus cosy. Right now. No time to waste. Or at least a telephone pole cozy. I know just the one I want to hit first. I think we need to start a Yarnbombing crew, right here in Midcoast Maine. Sign up now!

For inspiration:

International Fiber Collective's Knitted Gas Station

Deputy Dog has a post I can't match.

For the nature oriented Knitted Landscape

Their friends the label-makers Knitwit

Lauren Marsden who knits street signs

The Godmothers of it all: Knitta Please

Yarnbombing Documents it all.

Update: Watch Magda Sayeg sew the final bit of the Bus Cosy in Mexico City HERE

Secret Knitting

2008-11-11T08:30:00.003-05:00

You recognize my ever present cure for cold hands, one Frill mitt, but see also there's Secret Knitting plus the cute printed cotton bag I got as a party favor for extending my subscription to Selvedge...my indulgence...worth every penny...enough pennies to fill that sweet little cotton bag. The bag is by Swedish designer Gudrun Sjoden, who invents lovely unexpected color combinations for garments and accessories. I carry my double pointed needles in this bag.

The hidden knitting uses Manos del Uruguay Silk Blends Semi Solids, 70% Merino Wool and 30% silk, which gives it a lustrous sheen. I'm using the color Dove, which ranges from Olive green-grey to palest pink, almost white. I am not as a rule fond of variegated yarns, and had my doubts about this one, but deadlines being what they are, out of necessity I embraced the randomness of the color, ever-changing with the garment shaping. As the work progressed I grew to like the odd, accidental nature of the color placement, giving an effect which reminds me of antique moire silk fabric. Unexpected, and that's nice.

The Newest Member of My Family

2008-11-08T14:36:00.005-05:00

Isn't she beautiful? She is a 1957 size 10, which makes her about a size 4 in today's world of sizes. Very pointy, 1957 was most definitely a year for molding and restraining undergarments.
I think her name is Betsy, but I'm not quite sure. She has a tattoo on her back that looks like B and P combined, + C....What do you think?

It's 1957.....Betsy, Penny,+ Carol?

Today's Papers

2008-11-05T17:25:00.015-05:00

See more front pages HERE at the Newseum.org

Seen in the Neighborhood

2008-11-04T12:48:00.003-05:00

Do It Yourself

2008-10-27T08:14:00.001-04:00

Now you can! Obey Giant has kindly provided a way for us do-it-ourselfers to make our own posters. The large size fits nicely on a standard 8.5 x 11 piece of paper.
Artist Shepard Fairey of "Be the Revolution" campaign 2004 fame, is the brilliance behind the poster and the give away.

So do it!

And vote!

I did.

Color Style

2008-10-17T09:03:00.019-04:00

Look what I got in the mail! And see who's sweater is on the back cover!

In the late 70's I wanted one of these Inca Alpaca sweaters in a desperate way. I'd seen them in the September, College Issue, of Mademoiselle Magazine; the big fat telephone-book issue with real college girls as models. A few years later Lady Diana Spencer wore one at Balmoral on her betrothal weekend or whatever it was... although I was on to different looks by then, pink and black striped jeans come to mind, I still harbored a secret desire for an Andean alpaca sweater with birds and little people on it...Many years later, the dream comes true!

Don't feel you need to wear it with a long shirt underneath, waistlines are up you know, Retro Andean is made with Classic Elite Inca Alpaca, soft enough to wear next to your skin. Color Style edited by Pam Allen and Ann Bud, also includes my Gee's Bend Pullover as well as 15 other colorful, interesting designs by an amazing group of top designers.

What I'm doing now

2008-10-08T13:54:00.002-04:00

Mesmerized by Sunday Knits Yarn.
Still making Frill Mitts!

Wearing them because it is cold....grrrr...

Frill

2008-10-04T18:54:00.036-04:00

Frill
Wear them as fingerless mitts, or as sweet frilled cuffs
A welcome remedy for cold hands as well as a great fashion accent

Size Ladies Small (Medium, Large
Finished Measurements 8.5” (21cm)
Yarn Classic Elite Waterlily (100% Extra Fine Merino[50gr/100yds]) #1972 Lily Pad (MC) #1995 Azalea (CC);one ball each.
Or
Frog Tree Merino (100% Merino Wool [1.75oz/137 yds]) #007 Brown(MC), #46 Citron(CC); one ball each.
Needles 1 set double-pointed needles 3.35 (US 7) or size to obtain gauge.
Notions tapestry needle
Gauge 14st and 12 rnds = 2” in 1x1 rib pattern un-stretched.

I had so much fun making these that I whipped up 6 pairs in one weekend. I invite you to have fun too!
Frill also makes a quick and easy gift.

Click "Add to Cart" to pay for Frill with Paypal or Google Checkout and you will be emailed a link to download the pattern. $4.00

My first stab at commerce! Let's see how it works!

I made this darling wee pair with only one ball (65 yd) of Classic Elite Bazic, (#2925 Sunflower) details found on the pattern.

First Colorwork Project?

2008-10-04T09:04:00.012-04:00

This past summer was a busy one. The high point was most certainly a visit from my sister and brother-in-law from San Francisco, who added so much happiness and fun to our home.

Through them I met a new friend who was attending the highly regarded Maine Media Workshops, learning from one of the most revered portrait photographers of our time. But wouldn't you know, she was smitten with knitting while visiting our house! So when she returned home to London, and everyone asked "how was your portrait class" she said "oh fine, but Look At My Knitting!"

She was ready and eager to tackle color work and had no qualms about double pointed needles, in fact the thrill of it all encouraged her.
She thoroughly enjoyed mastering them, reveling in the joy and wonder of it all! Really 5 needles! She reminds me of myself. When I taught myself to knit I knew NO ONE else who did...Its hard to share the thrill of 5 needles with the un-knowing.

Fearless, she took on the Nederland Opera Mitts as her first project. So in answer to those of you who've asked....YES...if you want to, Nederland Opera Mitts can be your first project, it may be a little challenging learning double points and carrying color at the same time but if you want to, Go For It.

Details:
Julie used Frog Tree Merino for her mitts
Free Pattern Here and on Ravelry
The pattern calls for Classic Elite Princess.
Julie's colorway would be cute for the Nederland Vest too.

Vintage Fair Isle

2008-10-02T10:53:00.006-04:00

I love these people. I want to sit right down and have tea with them. Such a jolly time and such nice big cups too. Can you spot the fair isle? The vest on the right. I'll be wearing a matching one, and my socks will be fair isle too.

Now where are they, on a houseboat?

Fabulous Fair Isle

2008-09-27T14:02:00.015-04:00

I can hardly stand how much I love this wild fair isle dress! What about those sleeves? How about that scoopy neckline with a turtle neck on top? Maybe it's a turtle neck dress with a vest over it, I love it just the same. And the girl wearing it...I love her too.

Imagine you were born in the Shetland Islands.

Imagine Jamison's was just a skip down the block
.
Imagine that the designer of this fabulous garment was your mother!

It's all true for Gudrun Johnson, the talented designer and hostess of The Sheland Trader blog. She's back home for a long visit, lucky girl.

Some day I'll make the trip myself. My first question will be....which pattern is called "creepies" and next, which is "mices teeth"? I can't even recall where I read about these but I've been dying to know for a good 10 years now.

As many of you know fair isle knitting is my favorite thing. I simply find endless fun in mixing colors in a rhythmic way. I love the cleverness of making a few colors look like many, however I also find it satisfying to be able to include a billion colors in a single piece... This obsession always allows me a valid excuse to buy "just one ball".

So visit Gudrun, she's posted some enticing photographs of her home, which includes a beautiful woodstove (or peat burning stove?) and a huge vintage photograph of a fair-isle sweater being "dressed", I wonder if it is the same one that has fish drying in it...Also, be sure and read the nice interview with her at Knitting on the Net.

Review Susette's Fair Isle entry in her Knitted Abecedarium, (but don't stop there, she's up to letter Q).

For a little technical advice, breeze over and peruse Kathy's compilation of Fair Isle Knitting Tips and check out her links.

Scared to Steek? Eunny will make you brave.

Thinking of taking the trip to Shetland? Read the local paper and visit Fair Isle's Website
first.

But Will it Itch?

2008-09-24T09:16:00.002-04:00

An important question for those who fear wool. I've got a picture here ( ...well, as my favorite radio station is what is in focus, we'll call it yarn bokeh,...)
of what I do if I simply have no time to knit a proper swatch....Wrap the yarn around your, or the intended recipients wrist and wear it for a while.

I can state categorically that the exquisite Sunday Knits yarn do not itch one iota...divine. Can't wait to actually knit with them.

Order your color card today and be prepared to swoon.

The Amazing Textile Collection

2008-09-15T08:22:00.000-04:00

Fiber College 2008 was lots of fun, I only wish I could have taken some classes in addition to teaching one. Natural Dying, Beading, Quilting with photographic images, Rug Hooking, Jackie Fee taught a class, the list goes on. Plus it is not too big, not too small but just the right size. I urge anyone who likes fiber and longs to spend some time on one of the most beautiful beaches in Maine, to sign up for next year's event.

Dick Johnson, has spent the last 20 summers at the idyllic Searsport Shores Campground. It was our good fortune that Fiber College came to him 3 years ago! Up until that time, no one really understood his life long fascination with ethnic textiles From his time in the Peace Corp through his thirty years spent in Afghanistan, Pakistan and other stan's he has amassed an amazing, carefully gathered selection of garments, caps,throws, tents, hats, camel bags and I'm sure countless other things. I only had a glimpse of his collection and it totally floored me. When he returns next summer I'll help him photograph it a start a blog to document his collection. Piece by piece we'll learn about the people who made the items and Dick's own stories of where, when and how.
The tent above is just a hint of what's to come next summer.

Nederland Opera Mitts

2008-09-09T21:30:00.002-04:00

A secret revealed! I always intended my Nederland Vest to have matching armbands. For years I've been inspired by the knitted armbands found in Cynthia Gravelle LeCount’s book, Andean Folk Knitting: Traditions and Techniques from Peru and Bolivia, 1990, that men make for themselves, wildly intricate and stunningly beautiful. The armband here translated and simplified to harmonize with the Nederland Vest, proves to be a useful accessory in today's world of fluctuating temperatures.

The Nederland Opera Mitts are featured in this weeks Classic Elite's newsletter, follow the link to download the free pattern.

Many thanks to my gracious model, Russian Literature student Laura, who works next door to my office and makes a mean Caramel Latte. All the girls at Sage Market, in Camden Maine, can vouch for the usefulness of opera length mitts

Bunny

2008-09-08T17:34:00.002-04:00

Sweet Bunny captured at Fiber College 2008.

The weather threatened, but fiber prevailed.
More on this great event soon.

Class This Saturday!

2008-09-03T09:31:00.016-04:00

I'm teaching a class this coming weekend Saturday September 6th at Fiber College in nearby Searsport Maine. It is in a beautiful location right on the water, at Searsport Shores, a great family owned, old-time campground. This fabulous Fiber Event is run by the lively Astrid who I'm so happy I can call a friend. She is just the best! I think there may be a few spaces in my class, called Photographing Your Work, so follow the links. I'll share with you everything I can possibly think of that will get you on your way to sensational images!

Above are some of my own images, while below area few of the images I styled while working for Interweave Knits, all by my friend Chris Hartlove, the talented portrait photographer who was for years, the lensman for Interweave Knits. His rich images capture more than just the knitting project, they capture the soul of the knitter. Really, I'm not just being corny, its true!

Clockwise from top left: 1.Robin Melanson's Huntington Castle Pullover 2.Kathy Merrit's Babette Blanket 3.Marta McCall's Weekend Getaway Satchel 4.Veronik Avery's Marigold Tote

This Weeks Board

2008-08-27T09:24:00.009-04:00

There's a lot of buzz going around these days in the knitting community about "inspiration boards" thanks to my neighbor, the talented Michelle Rose Orne. In her cozy book, Inspired to Knit, she explains her working method and details how to create your own board.

I've always worked this way, hoarding scraps and tear-sheets and bits of fabrics, string and canned food labels. In my earliest days I decoupaged collage on my doll-house walls, changing the look to suit my mood or the dolls latest story-lines. Later in college the board once occupied whole a wall in my apartment, in fact my son's room now looks like a giant inspiration board.

These days, I've got a couple of boards. One in my hidy-hole studio and another where I hone things down, every couple of weeks and the bulletin board travels around the house with me as I swatch at opportune moments, outside in the sun, in front of a Japanese Movie ( a little hard to follow color charts and read subtitles but never mind) or beside the bed to greet me in the morning.

The board pictured above is a little more fashion heavy than usual, no worries, the content constantly changes. You can see that I'm back on a geometric argyle-ish mood that popped up again when The Nederland Vest was published. Stay tuned for what's come of it!

By the way, my hand is healing nicely, though it took much longer than I imagined. Now I have to massage it to break up the scar tissue, hurts but it's necessary.

Ah, the Lovely Oyster

2008-08-12T18:01:00.003-04:00

"small and rich, looking like little ears enfolded in shells, and melting between the palate and the tongue like salted sweets."
Guy de Maupassant

Ah yes...however the knife can be a brutal thing, if it slips. Behold:

Slows down the knitting a bit. Fooey.

Tollipop Love

2008-08-07T17:03:00.006-04:00

A dangerous thing that pay-pal button, usually. Not in this case because I am so inordinatly happy! Kirsten Cram the artist of Tollipop Shop is the happy-maker. Above you see Big Sister Little Sister. See what a quick learner Little Sister is? She's almost knit as much as Big Sister.

It reminds me of my own experience learning to knit from my next-door-neighbor's older sister, Mary, who gave me some thin red aluminum needles, fine pearly pale green yarn, cast on and showed me what to do. I must have been a natural because I knit, and knit and knit, delighted with the lovely dolly blankie that took shape beneath my needles. When I got to the end of the yarn I was stumped...How to take it off ? My dollies couldn't sleep very well with that big spear at the end of their coverlet. No one in my family had a clue. I had to wait and wait and wait, a whole night and part of the next day, until Mary got home from school. I was eager for Mary to show me the secret. She took my knitting, and carefully slid it off the needle and dramatically unraveled the whole thing. Yes, she did, she was a meany.

Little Sister 's knitting furiously and is quickly catching up with her sister. I feel sure Big Sister will show her the proper way to cast off which will not prohibit, but rather enhance sisterly competition.

You can find these girls at the Tollipop Shop on etsy. Be sure and visit the Tollipop the blog, which is endlessly entertaining, with stories and stories and stories, my favorite being The Whispering Nautilus featuring Petula... Darling, who's namesake introduced me to Ms. Tollipop to begin with from her own Darling blog.

Best thing yet, if you visit Tollipop before noon tomorrow, you can enter a special drawing to win a...drawing!

You'll be happy you did!

gee's bend

2008-08-04T21:41:00.009-04:00

gee's bend, originally uploaded by maryjanemidgemink.

Ok, I can't wait any longer, I've got a couple of sweaters in the up coming Color Style book by Pam Allen and Ann Budd. Take a Look at the preview which has me smiling like a happy-face. Just turn the first page and there you'll find a big double page spread of my Gee's Bend sweater. Some of my readers may remember how it all started...with a cup of tea and some favorite books and those amazing women from Gee's Bend who inspired my "lazy gal" style sweater, made of striped strips sewn together (good for take-along knitting)...And...clearly I for one, use all my leftover bits of yarn...The Charlie brown Nederland (below) is made with some of Gee's Bend scraps.

Oh I almost forgot! keep turning the pages of the preview and you'll see another sweater, Retro Andean, the sweater I once longed for and finally made! Not to mention the other amazing work by a fantastic group of designers, I'm pinching myself, that I'm included.

Fall for Nederland

2008-07-30T10:10:00.008-04:00

Nederland meets Charlie Brown, with these typical fall colors from the '70's and contrasting color finishing.

Classic Elite Princess

3476 Baronets Brown
3415 Superior Spruce
3425 Tawny Chestnut
3484 Milord's Madder
3416 Natural

On this version I began the color chart just one round after the ribbing, so the fair isle section hangs a little lower than in the grey vest pictured in Knitscene Fall '08. I'm happy to report that Miss Sophia loves the custom design!

In the Shops: Knitscene and Nederland

2008-07-28T08:43:00.010-04:00

Summer always takes me by surprise, creeping in slowly then BAM! High Crazy Summer, and my mind is not tuned to blogging I'm afraid.

Knitscene has been out for a week or two now, and in it you'll find the finished vest you may recognize from little bits and balls of yarn I showed a while back. I'm a little curious about the name they chose...Nederland...Low Forehead Vest....still I'm very pleased and in love with the whole issue. Call me crazy, but I especially love the little drawings scattered throughout, and I'm thrilled to be included with a sensational roster of designers. I've a tandem project in the works, but can't spill all the beans yet, natch!

For the vest you will need:
Sizes 34¼ (36½, 38¾, 41¼, 43½)" bust
Yarn Classic Elite Princess (40% merino, 28% viscose, 15% nylon, 10% cashmere, 7% angora; 150 yd [137 m]/50 g):
• #3428 major grey (MC), 3 (3, 4, 4, 5) balls
• #3431 top turq (turquoise), 1 ball
• #3415 superior spruce (green), 1 ball
• #3446 regal teal, 1 ball (the most beautiful color of yarn in the world, I might add, if I could marry a yarn color this would be it...this week anyway)
• #3413 black, 1 ball
Gauge 21 sts and 28 rnds = 4" in St st on larger needle; 22 sts and 22 rnds = 4" in argyle patt on larger needle
Tools
• Size 5 (3.75 mm): 24" and 16" circular (cir) needles
• Size 7 (4.5 mm): 24" cir needle
• Markers (m)
• Stitch holder
• Yarn needle

Don't

2008-07-24T15:35:00.003-04:00

When you're feeling like Miss Smartypants and think:

"I'll just cut it and graft the darn thing back together again".

Don't.

Really.

Even if you have done it before...

Just don't.

My Desk at the Office

2008-07-21T12:11:00.004-04:00

My wee decorations keep me happy....a sharp eye will notice the fair isle pattern
on the little girls smock.

All Work All the Time

2008-07-17T17:45:00.004-04:00

I'm lucky to have a job where I get to be creative for a good part of the day. But when I'm not at my day job as studio manager for Langley Photography, and Alison's assistant, I'm working at my job. Wherever I may be, in my car, at the dentist and most happily, in the garden; my knitting is always in tow. That girl tottering along lugging two huge bags in the middle of summer...its me, one life in one bag, the other life in the other...squeezing in a little knitting here and there, charting patterns before work....

And then there is The James Brown Collection up for auction as I write this. Damn. I so wanted the Sex Machine belt ....Sold! I really would like the yellow Sex Jumpsuit but the rust one sold for $4000+ so I bet I can't touch it...besides, the Denim Ensemble , which has a lower estimate is much more versatile.

Ok...

its not all work all the time after all.

most of the time its all fun all the time!

Zig Zag Afghan

2008-07-13T16:24:00.003-04:00

What would we do without Barbara Walker. Perish, plain and simple. Her Second Treasury of Knitting Patterns contains the code for the scrap-yarn-using afghan loved by Grannies 'round the world. Make one in strips for a portable project easy to lug around where ever you go. Sew it together later when the weather turns chill.

Multiple of 12 sts plus 3. Colors A and B

Row 1 (right side) with A, k1 ssk, *k9, sl2-ki_ p2sso: repeat from *, end k9, k2

Row 2 with A k1 *p1, k4, (k1, yo,k1) in next st, k4; repeat from *, end p1, k1.

Rows 3 and 4 with B repeat rows 1 and 2.

Barbara has a lot to say about colors and yarn choices, so I suggest investing in this book if you don't have it already. I use what ever I can get my hands on, doubling some yarns, mixing and blending others to get about the same heavy worsted weight. Choosing to use very fine yarn results in a feather-light wrap perfect for cocooning in. You can also change the stitch multiple for different widths of zig-zags. Possibilities!

The wormy way to swatch

2008-07-08T09:01:00.005-04:00

How do I decide which colors to use? I get the balls of yarn I think I'd like to use and set them in a place where I'm sure to see them as I go about my daily business. I rearrange them in passing, and toss out one here and there. When I get a group I like, I sometimes make these quick little i-cord worms to see how the colors work together, knit up. Then I carry the little dears around with me, out and about, so I can observe them in different lights. Sometimes they're wee little things like the ones above...some become long coiled serpents, waiting in my pocket.

4th of July

2008-07-01T00:00:00.017-04:00

In our huge extended family, the 4th of July is the best holiday ever. We load up the lobster boats with kids and dogs and food and head out to a nearby island for a lobster bake. Though it can be blistering hot during the day, it is always cold heading home across the bay. I made this hat up years ago, and one year made 9 during the day....slightly obsessed.

Let it be said I have no wits for commerce...I just give things away. My most miserable times as a Girl Scout were the Cookie Drives... So here you have it, the 4th of July Hat all mixed up in this post I'm afraid.

4th of July Hat
©Mary Jane Mucklestone 2008

Finished Size 20”
Yarn Bartlettyarns (www.bartlettyarns.com)(100% Maine Wool; 210 yd / 4 oz [m/g]):#F-35-S Garnet Heather, (red), #F-20-S Natural, (white), #F-6-S Denim,(blue), 1 skein each.
Needles ribbing size 7 (4.5 mm) and 8 (5 mm): 16” circular (cir). Size 8 (5 mm) set of 4 or 5 double-pointed (dpn). Adjust needle size if necessary to obtain the correct gauge.
Notions marker, tapestry needle.
Gauge 16 sts and 26=4”
HAT
With blue and smaller cir needle, CO 72 sts. Place Marker (pm) and join for working the round. *K1,p1; rep from* around. Repeat last rnd 4 times. Rnd 6 (increase rnd): *k6 inc 1, repeat from * around (84 sts). Rnd 7-11: change to larger needle, with red k . Rnd 12-16: with white k. Rnd 17-21: with red k. Rnd 22-26: with white k. Rnd 27-29: with red k. Rnd 30: (decrease rnd): *k7 k2tog; rep from * end k3 (75 sts). Rnd 31: k. Rnd 32: with blue k. Shape Crown: with blue follow chart, changing to dpn when necessary. Finishing: Break off yarn and with tapestry needle draw through remaining 5 sts. Weave in ends. Wear with joy!

Old School 4th of July, Sophie and Siama, with wild strawberries.

Look Who Came to Town!

2008-06-28T14:41:00.014-04:00

William Wegman and three of his Weimaraners, Penny, Candy and Bobbin (he's the daddy).... were in Rockport today for a day-long event, all Wegman all the time. I went to the morning show with 2 friends, one of whom is seven, to see two films, Alphabet Soup and Fay's Twelve Days of Christmas, while the dogs roamed the opera house sniffing out stray fallen popcorn.

Low key Bill, talked a bit about his work and when asked , explained that working with dogs as movie stars, has taught him to avoid really getting mad or exasperated, because the dogs will think he's mad at them, which affects their performance. The other key element is to design the production around the personalities of the dogs themselves, feature them in a role they would like and feel comfortable doing.... both lessons we might all do well to include in our daily lives, go with the flow and be comfortable.

From a knitters point of view, Fay's Twelve Days of Christmas, is a must see. It feature sweaters prominently, at least one of them hand knitted and many of them irresistibly awful examples of the horrifying Christmas genre. Pictured below are Crooky and Batty. Check out Crooky's mittens, and is Batty's sweater handknit with Maine Wool?

You can see a video from today's NY Times, with Mr. Wegman himself describing his work, being shown in a retrospective at the Brooklyn Museum.

Today in Rockport, Bobbin, Penny and Candy and Bill of course.

cherry blossom tea

2008-06-21T17:00:00.002-04:00

My friend went to Japan and this was a gift. The blossoms are preserved with salt...and make a delicate brew all on their own.

Happy Birthday Kri!

2008-06-16T18:43:00.003-04:00

It's her Birthday! Give her a visit at her Blog and her Studio!
She gave me the nickname Midge: how you pronounce MJ,
we've had many crafty and wild times.
Long live Myrtle Bean
and her stylish
size 6
shoe.
Happy Birthday Dear One!

the game and the game again

2008-06-15T14:07:00.006-04:00

The method:

a. Type your answer to each of the questions below into Flickr Search.
b. Using only the first page, pick an image.
c. Copy and paste each of the URLs for the images into fd's mosaic maker.

1. What is your first name?
2. What is your favorite food?
3. What high school did you go to?
4. What is your favorite color?
5. Who is your celebrity crush?
6. Favorite drink?
7. Dream vacation?
8. Favorite dessert?
9. What you want to be when you grow up?
10. What do you love most in life?
11. One Word to describe you.
12. Your flickr name.

Another game, played like the last, the same only different:

1. name of birth place
2.country where you live
3. favorite kind of house to live in
4. one word to describe your style of decorating
5. favorite town for a city-trip
6. favorite country for a holiday
7. favorite piece of furniture
8. favorite kind of garden
9. favorite flower
10. a historic place you visited and liked very much
11. where would you move to if you had to?
12. favorite room in your house

If you click on the mosaics, you can see who all the photographers are and read the notes which reveal the answers.

Winners!

2008-06-13T09:36:00.003-04:00

I pulled three from the hat! (Drumroll)

christina of phila*craft
alison of in a nutshell
gudrun of shetland trader

I was never good at exclusivity, so Jen at Crafty Ninja and Kyle from the seven year sock will get consolation prizes!

Kindly email me your contact info and let the 365 day countdown begin!
Don't forget to follow the directions in the previous post, for Pay It Forward.

Hey! Pay it Forward!

2008-06-09T21:01:00.003-04:00

It has taken me since October to even post about an enticing blog-world goody-out-of-the-goodness-of-your-heart, gifting game; Pay it Forward (or pass-it-on in American). Knitter, spinner, chef, photographer and person owned by the never-a-dull-moment cat Magnus....Jeni of Magnusmog kindly allowed me to Pay-it-Forward waaaaaay back in the fall. Only now am I playing along. But it will be fun, for sure!

Here is the blurb for the PIF.

"I will send a handmade gift to the first 3 people who leave a comment on my blog requesting to join this PIF exchange. I don’t know what that gift will be yet and you may not receive it tomorrow or next week, but you will receive it within 365 days, that is my promise! The only thing you have to do in return is pay it forward by making the same promise on your blog.

Only I'm changing it a bit to allow for time zone differences, I'll give it 3 days and pull the names out of a hat. K?

Be warned! I may take the entire 365 days, it has taken me nearly that long to play.

I was so tardy posting, I've already received my gifts. It is like Christmas in June! Jeni spun the most delicious Wensleydale, in bright rich blue, brown and green. I can't wait to start knitting with them. Soft! Also included was a sweet felted pin, and a tiny little book with chrysanthemum pattern all over. I am over the moon! Such generosity. I aim to please, and I hope to do as well for 3 of you as Jeni did for me.

The Future Cardigan and a Rescue

2008-06-04T18:43:00.001-04:00

Leftovers often make the nicest things, be it a tasty meal or a comforting cardigan. I'm not exactly sure if I'll end up liking this combination of odds and ends, but I am having fun in the making of it. Dale of Norway Heilo, is a sturdy old fashioned yarn that says, not surprisingly, "Norway" to me! I'm going with the old familiar feeling of a hand-me-down sweater, but with a little shaping. I love the almost too bright, retro red, love the sensible blue and wish the yellow were a bit less gold, but hey, thats what you get with leftovers.

Now what do you think, should I throw in the green, like I always do, or surprise myself and leave it out?

Below please find a follow up to the adventures of last weekend.

Snapshots and an Award

2008-06-02T18:58:00.001-04:00

It is taking me a bit to return to my stride, since my Western Adventure. Maybe, it is because although my trip was action-packed, I got what a vacation is for, a relaxed daily rhythm. I find it a struggle to resume my usual pace, it seems too frantic, and with all that doing, I feel as though I'm missing so much. I so enjoy doing nothing! And doing non-work (my own work that is) things:
I went to Ducktrap at low tide with my friends, and sloshed around. I went to a funeral and got lost on dirt roads with names like Rabbit Run, with my brothers-in-law and sister-in-law . I saw Blade Runner * on the big screen. I participated in the Stiletto Run, to benefit New Hope for Women, and then just hung out in town with my friend and her kids, where we went to friend Phil's Restaurant, Boyton McKay, for brunch, and read the New York Times. I knit, just to please myself. I didn't take any pictures of it. I neglected this blog.

I offer some last shots of Idaho, and I'm pleased to accept an award bestowed upon me by a blogger much more worthy of the honor than me, the eloquent Jackie, of
nearby the sea

once nominated:

1. You have to nominate 5 blogs, which haven't had this award before

2. Each of the blogs must have a purpose

3.The nominated blogs should make a link back to this page

4. The logo from the award should be put on their blog and should link
back to this blog

I nominate:

The gal who got me started, and always keeps me entertained, the always and forever Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious, Miss Petula Darling.

Lisa of Jungle Dream Pagoda, mistress of the stage and screen, frequent flights of fancy, Doppelganger Barbie Slumber Parties, and a wardrobe you won't believe!

Fellow knitting sister, Kat Coyle at Coiled. An amazing painter as well as designer of some of my favorite knitted things. When I was the stylist for Interweave Knits I couldn't wait to see what Kat would send in, always brilliant!

Flickr Mosaic Monday expert, yummy photographer, witty wry observer of life, Shula of Poppalina, kindred spirit in cyberspace.

Nina of Ninainvorm, a simply stupendous Dutch student who creates and creates and creates, like a busy bee, everything imaginable with uplifting energy, give yourself a boost and visit!

I suppose I do have a purpose for this blog, keeping you all busy following links!

Idaho

2008-05-21T21:07:00.006-04:00

Welcome to Nuestro Sueño, my Aunt Lori's ranch, deep in a canyon in Idaho. It is the heart and home of all the dreams she shared with my Uncle Jay, cowboy, cowboy poet, artist and rancher, who passed away long before his time, 14 years ago. My brave, tough and tiny little aunt has continued to run 100 head of cattle and 25 or so sheep almost every year since, all by her lonesome.

Lori's ranch is so far off the grid you simply won't believe it. There are 7 miles of winding dirt road, often on the edge of stomach dropping cliffs, before you even reach the hard-surface road. She has never had electricity and when she and Jay first moved in, they had a crank up telephone that only connected to the operator, a neighbor at the top of the canyon, in the afternoon...on good days. She now has a "real" phone and has solar panels to run what little electricity she uses, often just to listen to a book on tape or turn on a reading light.

The Scale of Things, originally uploaded by maryjanemidgemink.

Woolly Time

2008-05-19T18:26:00.009-04:00

On our way to visit my aunt's ranch in Idaho, my mom and I stayed overnight in Pendleton Oregon, home of the Pendleton Round Up, a rodeo my uncle participated in when he was a young buck.

The next morning was spent touring the Pendleton Woolen Mill .

Jiggly pictures all, but it was a whirling jiggly place...loud too!

They have a fabulous Seconds Shop where you can get the famous wool blankets at an amazing discount. I couldn't believe my luck in finding a Three Corn Maidens saddle blanket.

Here's what they say about it:

The Three Corn Maidens design tells the story of the Pueblo people's belief that just as the sun gives life to the corn, the Corn Maidens bring the power of life to the people. The blanket was designed by Isleta Pueblo artist Mary Beth Jiron as a celebration of her acceptance into the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Jiron attributes the concept to visions she had and the desire to tell a story from her own culture in which corn is the staff of life and often the center of ceremony. Three Corn Maidens is the second design in the American Indian College Fund's series of student-designed blankets. The Three Corn Maidens design won first place in the student blanket contest.

Welcome to the Wild West

2008-05-16T18:46:00.001-04:00

I'll be posting in fits and starts, due to many factors, stay tuned!

The Little House

2008-05-13T18:13:00.001-04:00

The Little House, originally uploaded by maryjanemidgemink.

I'm home!