Sirdar denim stole

Margaret has returned to knitting after a break of several years, and wanted to start with a straight forward project. She has just finished this gorgeous stole which she knit mostly on our Monday stitch and knit nights and during a few car trips.

 

The yarn is Sirdar denim, a cotton/wool/acrylic blend in colour Plum duff, weight chunky/12 ply. It knit up beautfully in garter stitch for a snuggly warm comforting wrap, 50 stitches on size 8mm needles. I am sure Margaret's mother will be thrilled with this lovely gift.

Cozy Velour Romper, AS&E Issue 80

I seem to like sewing and smocking out of season. It is very chilly at the moment (for Queensland!) and I am smocking light-as-air batiste. So to keep this blog in season, I am showing you a little something I smocked in summer. I had to send it to a baby in the UK when I finished it, to find someone to wear it. I am very grateful to know of an opposite season toddler for whom I can smock.



This is my very altered version of "Fairy Floss" from Australian Smocking and Embroidery Issue #80. I have used my own smocking design, and changed the pattern considerably. I have described how I changed the pattern in my review on PatternReview. I do like the idea of the pattern, but unfortunately it is not the best knit pattern that I have ever come across for a romper. However, I was still happy with the result. Smocking can really add to a utilitarian garment. I am on the look-out for some more cuddly velour.