5 Best Practices for Pattern Writing

Even if you aren’t a designer, don’t click away, this post is also helpful for stitchers looking for a new pattern to make. This is not a complete list but some key things to look for. This post is about the simple things that can make the stitcher’s experience better. Designers, what things do youContinue reading “5 Best Practices for Pattern Writing”

Carrying Yarn in Rows, Crochet

Some patterns will be more enjoyable, less ends to weave in, if the yarn is carried and not cut. However, you want to do this in a way that doesn’t distract from the beauty of the piece. The easiest way to do that is in a piece that has an edging. It is possible toContinue reading “Carrying Yarn in Rows, Crochet”

Alternating Cable Cast On and Bind Off

While it is labeled the “alternating” cable cast on, you can use this cast on to make those first stitches on the needle be cast on in pattern. If you have a mix of knits and purls this is a great cast on to use to achieve the look of the stitch needed, where needed.Continue reading “Alternating Cable Cast On and Bind Off”

Executing a Project Successfully

How many times have you been so excited to start a new project? I know I have. Especially when I just bought a new book, downloaded a pattern or received some great new yarn. That bug hits when I go stash diving for another skein for a current project and I have to exercise someContinue reading “Executing a Project Successfully”

Carrying Yarn in Crochet

Sometimes when working with more than one color in crochet, I’m thinking stripes, it is more practical, and economic, to carry the yarn and not cut it until you are finished with it. Cutting the yarn creates more ends to weave in, very few of us actually enjoy that, and it often uses more yarnContinue reading “Carrying Yarn in Crochet”

Swatch Your Beginning and Ending First

Before starting on your next project, swatch. We all know this, few of us do it but recently I learned a valuable lesson about swatching. I had swatched for this particular project, a lot. I’ve been swatching this thing since June and here it is the end of August, as I write, and I finallyContinue reading “Swatch Your Beginning and Ending First”

Picking Up Stitches to Knit

Knowing how to pick up and knit/purl stitches is a valuable skill that is pretty simple to learn. Most knitters worry about leaving holes when they pick up stitches. That is a legit concern but there is an easy way around that to give you the assurance and confidence that your finished work will lookContinue reading “Picking Up Stitches to Knit”

Stitching on the Go!

The above title can have more than one meaning. I going to talk about three different situations that you might find yourself in and want to have your stitching along with you. For the best experience a little planning can go a long way. For each of the three scenarios I will share a photoContinue reading “Stitching on the Go!”

Caring for Your Body While Stitching

While stitching has many health benefits, it can be hard on our bodies if we aren’t intentional and careful. I know many of you have probably heard this before, but are you listening? Have you applied what you’ve heard? In this convenient, everything-at-your-fingertips-on-your-phone world, it has become all too easy to sit in one placeContinue reading “Caring for Your Body While Stitching”