First Time Knitted Hat

I knitted my very first hat! I picked up this issue of Taproot, and to my surprise found the sweetest, simplest hat pattern, complete with several modification options. I chose to stick with the original pattern, and once I got started it came together really fast.

I decided to knit the whole thing on my 6mm circular needles. And although they were a bit longer than the circumference of the hat, I used the magic loop method and never had to switch to dpns. I had to start over a few times because I kept twisting the ribbing as I was going around....I once even started knitting in the wrong direction!

It is defiantly not perfect, but overall I am really pleased with how it came out. Since I used 100% worsted wool it is super warm and with all this crazy weather it has been nice to have a warm snuggy hat to put on.

Happy Knitting!

And P.S. my sweater knitting is also coming along famously. Just finished the hip shaping and am just working on about 25 rows of stockinette stitch, and then it is off to make the sleeves :)

Casting On

In the spirit of new things in a new year I have decided to make myself a sweater! This is very exciting for several reasons. Number one I have never followed a knitting pattern...aaaannnd to knit most anything other than a scarf or a pot holder, you kinda need to be able to read a pattern. So after much searching the interweb I found Stefani Japel's Boyfriend Sweater pattern.

So far everything is going smoothly. I have some circular bamboo knitting needles that are by far my favorite to use, they are much easier on my hands and wrists than straight ones. Although I am knitting a cardigan, and not a pull over, I am still using the circular needles making the weight much easier to control as it grows.

I have just taken off the stitches that will eventually make the sleeves, and am working on the back/body. I still am not quite sure how I am going to knit the sleeves...I understand the "magic loop" method in theory, but have never had cause to do it! After that I anticipate my next challenges being the knit ribbing and button holes, both skills also brand new to me.
I do love the purple color of the wool yarn that I chose, and no matter how this looks when I am done, I am gonna have me a warm cuddly sweater.