In typical Gwenny fashion, I have been very lazy at updating this blog! I have had one hell of a year dealing with a new job, illness, a son heading to college, and so much more!
On a positive note, I have finished several projects this year, including a sweater for myself, and I am very proud of that!
Project #1
I started and finished a test knit for a lovely shawl by designer Deborah Arnouts called My Heart in the Highlands. It was made with a super squishy Aran Tweed gradient set dyed by Pandia's Jewels.
Project #2
I also finally finished my first Stephen West MKAL project from 2014! This is the Exploration Station from the WestKnits Fall MKAL 2014. I don't know what took me so long to finish it. It's lovely! I blame the brioche section and i-cord bind off. I used multiple yarns I purchased back in 2014 specifically for this project from a LYS called Lettuce Knit that has since ceased business. 2 skeins of Shantiknits Sock Yarn in Pumpkinfest and Spring Time, 1 skein of Julie Asselin Nanos in Jaipur, and 1 skein of Blue Moon Fiber Arts Socks That Rock in Stumptown Brown.
Project #3
I started and finished a simple hat for my husband for Christmas. It has been the only thing he has ever asked me to knit for him. This is the Barley hat by Tin Can Knits. I knit it in Estelle Worsted in a basic black (because that's all he will wear).
Project #4
I started and finished the Lemongrass sweater I have been wanting to knit for a long time. I already had the yarn, and the designer, Joji, has a KAL every fall. Since I was on sick leave this year I decided it was the best year to do it. With the motivation of the KAL and the time due to sick leave, I was able to accomplish my goal. I knit it in the denim colourway of Americo's Cadena Alpaquita. This is one of my favourite yarns. I am sad that Americo will no longer be carrying it. Luckily they have many more gorgeous yarns to ogle over.
Project #5
And finally, I was able to start and finish a shawl for a co-worker as a Christmas gift. I completed it on the evening of December 23rd. It will be gifted to her when I return to work (hopefully) in the new year. This is the Rushing Tide Shawl by Felicia Lo of SweetGeorgia Yarns. I used SweetGeorgia Yarns Tough Love Sock yarn in Mulberry. I just need to block this to open up the lacework.
I am going to be focusing on WIPs and using up stash next year. Look for my 2018 goals post in the new year for more details.
I hope you all had a very Merry Christmas and have a fantastic New Year!
