tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10110657845930766272024-03-03T19:26:14.800-05:00garment houseellybethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00335353143797528543noreply@blogger.comBlogger290125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1011065784593076627.post-17196079210709656612013-11-06T13:49:00.000-05:002013-11-06T13:50:05.540-05:00On Sale Now - Plowline Raglan Pattern!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://instagram.com/p/gYkDlGS1SF/"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJu9KMFQ5qTxd8ecHOzzIRk7yGQSu3GPuTJYt5QG0AkyGdzxPmlfJlb5V4krVKMcEG-yJpUW6AjYZ-8RCEHkomOdkh5J7IELEtI7WqJB1NSOCf_K6sEzd-nmkjfK1n8VtnFPofS5u5/s400/IMG_2320.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The <a href="http://garmenthouse.bigcartel.com/product/plowline-raglan-sweater-pattern">Plowline Pattern</a> is up! You can download it from the <a href="http://garmenthouse.bigcartel.com/product/plowline-raglan-sweater-pattern">Garment House Shop</a>, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/plowline-raglan-sweater">Ravelry</a> or <a href="http://pul.ly/b/83917">directly from here</a>. I am also trying out seamless checking through my shop now, eliminating having to go through Paypal. I'm pretty excited about it, but make sure to let me know if you experience any problems. </div>
<br />ellybethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00335353143797528543noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1011065784593076627.post-63524502079745590602013-11-04T13:08:00.000-05:002013-11-04T13:09:03.448-05:00comfort + pregnancy tips<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://instagram.com/p/fgGq3kS1TV/"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc3OiW_U9j9Nsr1l1dkcL8dgr1PWvfPjKml12EMYB8im4UJSzeq5N_vnJShpWgytiE1cEs9DCLoHi_Cv_CSShVdkugK_Qt4DZ_FR0TK3P4fNKb5UhjFwMoUSugdLbdTmPh0b_eJ4Gr/s400/IMG_0641.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Saturday was slow and relaxing, just what I needed after last week. I had been fighting through nights of being constantly woken up with horrible charley horses in my legs and feet, and a bit of anxiety from the loss of sleep. I saw my doctor at the end of last week and had a good long talk with her. She suggested taking magnesium, specifically <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Slow-Mag-Magnesium-Chloride-Calcium-Tablets/dp/B001G7QZ8C/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top">Slow-Mag</a> for the leg pain. I could tell right away that it was helping so much. But now i'm starting to realize just how tired I am, so I'm trying to be careful and recover.<br />
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Comfort is something i'm always on the search for. We've had so much discomfort over the last bunch of years, that whenever there's a tiny chance to create a little refuge, I try to take advantage of it. The majority of this pregnancy has provided a rest for my body, but as everyone hears, there are plenty of naturally uncomfortable parts of these nine months. These are some of the things i've found that have helped so much.<br />
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After going through my maternity clothes from my last pregnancy, I decided a lot has changed in a decade - no thank you cargo capris! I made a choice not to go nuts buying a bunch of maternity clothes - only the basics. It started with a Gap order pretty early on, and some disappointing demi-band jeans. I placed another Old Navy order and bought a pair of <a href="http://instagram.com/p/fBj1fHS1V6/">these fantastic straight leg full-panel jeans</a>. They sold out of the exact ones I ordered that were on sale, and I tried ordering <a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=12941&vid=1&pid=294415002">the darker wash</a>, but they weren't the same and ended up getting sent back. I also ordered a pair of <a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=12942&vid=1&pid=383755002">full-panel ankle length pants with ankle zips</a>. Both pairs have been worn all throughout the pregnancy, but the jeans are definitely a favorite.<br />
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Another great discovery was Topshop maternity. I was skeptical about how comfortable their maternity line would be and how well it'd fit, so I only ordered two items and was ready to send them back if I had to. I splurged on <a href="http://us.topshop.com/en/tsus/product/clothing-70483/maternity-70511/maternity-chino-trousers-2225843?bi=1&ps=200">these chinos</a> since not every day is a hip-hugging, straight leg pants kind of day during pregnancy (in fact, most days are a "can I stay in stretchy pants?" kind of day). I LOVE them. I didn't discover until a couple weeks in that they have an adjustable waist, which definitely helps them not to sag. I only wish they weren't capri length now that the weather is getting colder. The other item I ordered was a pair of Ponte Leggings that were on sale, and although i'm constantly hiking them up (some belly panels are just much too long, even for my torso), they're nice and thick and i'm glad I ordered them. For the sizing, I just used their sizing chart and didn't have a problem.<br />
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For tops, i've had a bit of a problem finding things I like, or things that don't just annoy me through the day. I have been able to fit into most of my roomier button down shirts and almost all of my hand-knit sweaters, so that's what i've been sticking to. I'll often use an <a href="http://www.ingridandisabel.com/category/ingrid-isabel-catalog/bellaband">Ingrid and Isabel Bellaband</a> that my friend was kind to loan to me when I do wear non-maternity tops. I'll even wear it with maternity jeans, to add some length and hide those jean panels. I would love to find some comfortable long-sleeve shirts to either wear under sweaters, or alone. So far I just steal Doug's <a href="http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=5228&vid=1&pid=243303372">Gap Essential Long-Sleeve tees</a> from his side of the closet. Now that it's cooler, I haven't gotten as much use out of my short sleeve tops, but this <a href="http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=sweater&ProductID=2073881067&VariantID=">non-maternity</a> short-sleeve sweatshirt was a lifesaver while it was still warm out - super comfortable and nice and long. I have ordered a <a href="http://us.asos.com/ASOS-Maternity-Exclusive-T-Shirt-in-Neppi/100x5q/?iid=2936573&cid=5813&Rf900=1498&sh=0&pge=1&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Coral&mporgp=L0FTT1MtTWF0ZXJuaXR5L0FTT1MtTWF0ZXJuaXR5LUV4Y2x1c2l2ZS1ULVNoaXJ0LWluLU5lcHBpL1Byb2Qv">t-shirt from ASOS maternity</a> line for layering, but am still waiting on delivery.<br />
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You can usually find me carrying around a hot water bottle in it's cover to stay warm, or sitting with my back on a heating pad if there's an outlet close! Include a pot of tea, and it's hard to get up and move!<br />
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I have found that any pajamas in Target's Gilligan & O'Malley Sleepwear line are excellent as long as you buy a little big. <a href="http://www.target.com/p/gilligan-o-malley-reg-women-s-challis-pj-set-assorted-colors/-/A-14592244#prodSlot=medium_1_27&term=gilligan">This classic, super-soft set</a> have been my favorites all throughout my pregnancy, and I just found another pair at my Target for $12! I picked up this <a href="http://www.target.com/p/gilligan-o-malley-reg-women-s-flannel-print-sleep-shirt-assorted-colors/-/A-14643997?reco=Rec|pdp|14643997|TargetClickEV|item_page.horizontal_1&lnk=Rec|pdp|TargetClickEV|item_page.horizontal_1">flannel sleep shirt</a> in large that was also on clearance and was surprised to find that it actually fits! I always look forward to being able to come home and wear my pajamas, a sweater and <a href="http://www.padraigcottage.com/p-206-womens-original-slipper.aspx">Padraig slippers</a> after a long day.<br />
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As far as beauty products go, I try to keep things simple for my usually intolerant skin. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Petal-Witch-Hazel-Toner-Ounces/dp/B00016XJ4M">Thayer's Rose Petal Witch Hazel Toner</a> has been an amazing discovery early on in my pregnancy. Using it cold in the summer was especially refreshing. My routine every morning and night has been to use my Clarisonic Mia with a mild cleanser, followed by Thayer's toner and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Neutrogena-Clear-Sunblock-Lotion-Ounce/dp/B004D2C5FY">Neutrogena's Clear Face moisturizer</a> on only the really dry days. I find this routine to be the only thing that keeps my skin happy. Most days makeup is too much to fuss with, so whenever I wear <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Clinique-Lash-Doubling-Mascara-Unboxed/dp/B000I4YSUG">Clinique's Lash Doubling Mascara</a>, it feels like I really put a lot of effort into getting ready! <br />
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I did a bunch of research on belly balm since I had a good one I loved for my last pregnancy that I can no longer find, but eventually just started using <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Jergens-Hydrate-Daily-Moisturizer-Ounce/dp/B001ETC7OS/ref=pd_sim_bt_1">plain old body lotion</a>. It seems to help with the itching, but we'll see how it does in the stretch mark department (although i've heard all the balms aren't going to do much anyway). I got away with hardly any during my last pregnancy, but was a lot younger then!<br />
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If you have any suggestions about comforting things you've found, please pass them on. They don't have to be pregnancy related, in fact, most of my favorite things over the last couple months have been non-maternity! <br />
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ellybethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00335353143797528543noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1011065784593076627.post-38532330553477384682013-10-30T18:07:00.001-04:002013-10-30T18:35:26.649-04:00Almost there!<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/10581522616/" title="Garment House Plowline Raglan Pattern by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="Garment House Plowline Raglan Pattern" height="681" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3820/10581522616_e9384ccc81_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a><br />
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I'm so, so close to releasing the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/garmenthouse/plowline-raglan-garter-sweater">Plowline Raglan Sweater</a> pattern! After consulting my company's computer guy (ha, shockingly underpaid husband), I finally got my PDFs looking the way I want them to. Apple does a terrible job resizing their documents making the graphs hardly legible, but I think that's ironed out now. I might go back and do the same for all my other patterns and provide an update for those of you who have already bought them. <br />
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A little bit about the Plowline. I plan to release it sometime early next week, and for now it will be released in one size, <a href="http://garmenthouse.bigcartel.com/faq">Garment House Medium</a> (size 6-8). I will update the pattern to include all sizes in a while, after I've had a chance to get some feedback about the pattern as it is now. I'll be offering this one-size pattern at a discounted rate until then. <br />
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You have all been so kind about the Garment House knitting patterns so far, thank you! It's something I've wanted to do for a long time, even before I asked if anyone would be interested in the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/garmenthouse/downton-sweater">Downton</a> <a href="http://garmenthouse.blogspot.com/2012/01/knitting-and-downton.html">Sweater</a> I hoped to release last year. If this Plowline release goes well, that's the next sweater pattern on the list!<br />
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<br />ellybethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00335353143797528543noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1011065784593076627.post-4981592215899510642013-10-21T15:50:00.000-04:002013-10-21T15:58:01.924-04:00Thank you! And let's talk hot water bottles. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://instagram.com/garmenthouse"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLT4gdECHoryJdRMQhGPVOW0BqWqKCOqVNVSxQNHiqS4OPeCgHzV16nGdWziOzdUeKXrm7KY65D1ERMCOPCUvAamw9m5xQYp0htR8z2FjvhGJk7DaueomaI1_Os5w7i7QPgk3cYdw7/s640/knitting+projects.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I meant to post on this earlier, but couldn't find an extra minute anywhere! Thank you for participating in the <a href="http://garmenthouse.blogspot.com/2013/10/ravelry-store-pattern-giveaway.html">Garment House Giveaway</a>! I got a hold of all the winners last week and the most amazing thing happened - almost every single one of them personally wrote back and thanked me! It was such a kind gesture, and a fun way for me to participate in the excitement about their upcoming knitting project! I get the same way before I cast on, and hope these patterns ignite the desire to knit a handful of great projects this fall and winter. I can't wait to see how all these patterns knit up for you!<br />
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I myself have had to finish a bunch of <a href="http://garmenthouse.bigcartel.com/product/hot-water-bottle-cover-pattern">Hot Water Bottle Covers</a> and <a href="http://garmenthouse.bigcartel.com/product/small-large-teapot-cozy-pattern-booklet">Teapot Cozies</a> as gifts for various people over the last couple weeks, and as satisfying as these quick gifts can be, i'm really looking forward to starting a winter-long project for myself. It will probably be a sweater, and preferably some one else's pattern! Eventually, i'll knit another version of my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/garmenthouse/plowline-raglan-garter-sweater">Plowline Raglan</a>, but for now, i'm happy with the one i've got. And now that the giveaway is over, I can focus on sharing that pattern with all of you!<br />
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Now for the thrilling part of my post that I know you've all been on the edge of your seats to discuss - hot water bottles. I've had some questions about which hot water bottles I buy. This is an excellent thing to ask, since I'm still on a hunt for a favorite. Out of the four I own, I was given one that I feel is quality worth buying again, but I haven't been able to track down where to get them. Some i've purchased have been too thin, and I like them a little sturdier, a lot have had an awful plastic smell that only gets worse when hot water is poured into them, and a couple have a warning printed right on them not to use with boiled water! I don't know about you, but I like that bottle as hot as I can get it and want it to retain that heat all night if possible! I've been reading Amazon reviews trying to find a bottle that is worth buying in bulk so that I can just have a stack on hand to avoid those crazy last minute treks to every pharmacy within a 50 mile radius whenever I need a get well or house warming gift. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=bl_sr_hpc?_encoding=UTF8&field-brandtextbin=Fashy&node=3760901">Fashy</a> has some good looking bottles that come in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fashy-Classic-Bottle-Assorted-Colors/dp/B0006NY1ZG/ref=sr_1_2?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1382385361&sr=1-2">such great colors</a>, but a lot of the reviews say they are children's size (What?! They sell children's size bottles?! Mini things! I want them!). <a href="http://www.amazon.com/S%C3%A4nger-Rubber-Hot-Water-Bottle/dp/B00FVG4DIS/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1382385369&sr=1-1">Sänger</a> has some great colors too and the quality looks good, but there are no reviews to be able to tell. I recently bought two <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Mabis-Healthcare-Rubber-Water-Bottle/dp/B000BHDLQM/ref=sr_1_2?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1382385330&sr=1-2">super cheap Mabis bottles</a> locally, but I wasn't terribly impressed with their quality. They weren't the ribbed ones Amazon sells, so maybe those are a bit better. I'm holding out hope for <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Graham-Field-Hot-Water-Bottle/dp/B000TF41AQ/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top">these Graham Field bottles</a> since you can in fact buy them in bulk! I'll keep searching and pass on any info I find, and if you get a chance, I'd love it if anyone left their recommendations! ellybethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00335353143797528543noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1011065784593076627.post-13225441377383120402013-10-12T17:31:00.003-04:002013-10-12T17:32:14.625-04:00busy, busy, busy!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP9WIGV0P7GJ0thYWJ85KkNqaxqCve3YqU8w6IzknCEjnzUCcZVwdNeLC-nimA0eRcbstUFa-KVyP5lC25DbP-iO8EXOkiu2rrywGAwd8so-xoHPO5BwDMKObQGL-EuJlTjDdfvvQp/s1600/Plowline+Raglan+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP9WIGV0P7GJ0thYWJ85KkNqaxqCve3YqU8w6IzknCEjnzUCcZVwdNeLC-nimA0eRcbstUFa-KVyP5lC25DbP-iO8EXOkiu2rrywGAwd8so-xoHPO5BwDMKObQGL-EuJlTjDdfvvQp/s640/Plowline+Raglan+1.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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this week has been a little nuts, but i haven't forgotten about the giveaway! i haven't had any extra time to let everyone know, but i've extended the promo (obviously), and plan on choosing some winners either today if i can find the time, or monday. in the meantime, go ahead and comment if you haven't already.</div>
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also, i'm wrapping things up on this <a href="http://instagram.com/p/fQGAFvS1W1/">plowline raglan sweater pattern</a>! the pattern itself is done as much as i'm going to fiddle with it for now, but it will be nice to have the giveaway over before i move onto something new. thank you for all the kind words about the pictures and the sweater so far. getting photos at 23 weeks pregnant without looking like i just ate thanksgiving dinner was a challenge! <br />
<br />ellybethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00335353143797528543noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1011065784593076627.post-64823759222137760442013-10-07T18:06:00.000-04:002013-10-07T18:06:57.100-04:00more patterns available<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://instagram.com/p/fIZw6iS1Vh/"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0UXRf0cmxbPC1AJtd4zmYcgQeVtrhC0nKiYOnLtG7cMXqupMQUBbsjT4K0K6O7dhUhusO-Xgpti-8QntQoqfCm1wiN8t8QGfNWXb91_R2mNyRdBHluY72M0QY5KjxLyDFhzaDVLqf/s640/teapot+cozy+insta.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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i finished another knitting pattern over the weekend! it's a standard size teapot cozy, and I've just added it to the <a href="http://garmenthouse.bigcartel.com/">shop</a>! it's available for purchase in two different ways, <a href="http://garmenthouse.bigcartel.com/product/large-teapot-cozy-pattern">alone</a> or <a href="http://garmenthouse.bigcartel.com/product/small-large-teapot-cozy-pattern-booklet">combined</a> with the small teapot cozy pattern.<br />
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these teapot covers are a lot of fun to make, and they knit up so quickly. i thoroughly enjoyed having a small project to work on this weekend, even though you'd figure i'd be tired of all this test knitting. a couple weekends back, i took the time to organize all my yarns and i'm getting a lot of enjoyment out of using up whatever odds and ends are left over from other projects. i'm even stretching myself a little to modify patterns slightly so that I avoid buying MORE YARN! although i'm in no way going to set this challenge for myself, i could easily get away with not buying another skein for at least a year!<br />
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i've decided to keep the <a href="http://garmenthouse.blogspot.com/2013/10/ravelry-store-pattern-giveaway.html">giveaway commenting</a> open for just a little longer too, so make sure to click the post below if you want to add your name to the group. and thank you to the people who just keep buying away! the encouragement is helping me to keep pushing ahead!ellybethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00335353143797528543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1011065784593076627.post-56460222130756496252013-10-04T20:28:00.000-04:002013-10-14T19:27:18.999-04:00ravelry store pattern giveaway!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://garmenthouse.bigcartel.com/"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil2rDMFRyGIuwslQhnEpVBA2-TCCJvpIySYXeMYiPyRdem7QN3eD45OuJ3Q0bd-DzxX0u7RLvJO3eMq2wv7leCIVDStPzaiaMCGAQOwvH7zw4if5P5m4iUP5KHw9x_M2Ggn2nsiTGy/s640/pattern+giveaway.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I've decided to open a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/stores/garment-house">Garment House Ravelry Store</a> for my pattern downloads, too! The same two patterns are available for download now. If you're a knitter and don't have <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/">Ravelry</a> account, it's worth signing up. Especially if you're interested in getting one of my patterns for free! That's right, it's time for a party. As a way of saying thank you for the support, I'm giving away one pattern (of your choice) to ten random commenters on this post. TEN! If you're shy, or don't know what to comment, let me give you some ideas. Tell me what age you started knitting, who taught you to knit, or what knit item you saw that inspired you to learn. I'll give it a couple days (the promo codes expires next Friday), then I'll randomly generate some numbers and go through the comment list and try to contact you with a promo code for one free download. Please leave some way for me to reach you, have a blogger profile with a link to an email, or check back here and i'll leave a response to your comment if you're a winner. If there's no way to get a hold of you, i'll keep moving down the list. <br />
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Let's get this commenting party started!<br />
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**thanks for all the comments! this giveaway is now closed.** ellybethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00335353143797528543noreply@blogger.com47tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1011065784593076627.post-76606899025318095032013-10-04T17:41:00.001-04:002013-10-04T17:41:22.269-04:00another knitting pattern is ready for download!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://garmenthouse.bigcartel.com/product/small-teapot-cozy-pattern"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj86fKW4prDdt4JU8a2HUKXdFImYt6MSAfgE7VHjnjdxXnM7tcLiM8ZtMAyAz8BdVULC7A92PuyGQQusG2OGNjy6EL1UyZZlYLhNafBt9kSoZ-HhlaeH5m-ijR-CCbRvSfFBDAi7PAs/s640/DSC_0513.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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First of all, thank you for buying the <a href="http://garmenthouse.bigcartel.com/product/hot-water-bottle-cover-pattern">Garment House Hot Water Bottle Cover pattern</a>! Wow! I'm so thrilled to have your business after such a long hiatus from the shop, and cannot wait to see everyone's hand-knit work! </div>
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Can you tell by the patterns i'm uploading it's been cold? Really, really cold? As I sit in a frigid office, I find myself piling on every test knit item I have in my pack mule's worth of stuff I haul from the house to the office every day. I even have a very hot water bottle in it's cover on my lap. And another on my back! It pays to be a knitter. </div>
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Pattern download number two, <a href="http://garmenthouse.bigcartel.com/product/small-teapot-cozy-pattern">Small Teapot Cozy</a>, is ready and waiting in <a href="http://garmenthouse.bigcartel.com/">the shop</a>! I have been meaning to share this pattern for a while, and knowing full-time tea drinking weather is on it's way, now is the time! This project is incredibly fast since it's knit with chunky yarn, which also makes it extra insulating for your teapot. I use it with my <a href="http://www.forlifedesign.com/shop/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=12_8&products_id=31">ForLife "Stump" Teapot</a> (which i highly recommend), but it will work with most two-cup (16-18 oz) teapots. This pattern is perfect for beginners since it's knit flat in garter stitch, meaning you don't have to use one purl stitch to make it! But really, what knitter doesn't like a simple and quick knitting project?</div>
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More patterns are on their way, but for now, i'm going to pile as many quilts and blankets I can find on top of me for the weekend, and catch up on some more knitting. Thank you for your business, friends!</div>
<br />ellybethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00335353143797528543noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1011065784593076627.post-3794811815713570852013-10-03T23:05:00.000-04:002013-10-04T10:54:59.836-04:00garment house knitting patterns<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://garmenthouse.bigcartel.com/product/hot-water-bottle-cover-pattern"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimqbzC-VKnlZYFWb-kfAS2z2r2_T4KOVgYPIpYWZcNlY8KDDhOZs9qGnR1qFMiyJ7S3TInpjmS3BRLgzif8dWntYZglmM8q0oljQCR3LQMquiFaT3j5YamOGFfspufhuW-tDd-1qlH/s640/DSC_0551.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
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it's been quiet on here over the last couple weeks, but i've been hard at work! my days have been full of making list after list, going through stacks of notebooks filled with my knitted designs, test knitting until my fingers are about to fall off, taking photos in hurricane-speed winds, retaking photos, editing photos, changing layouts, and trying hard to wrap up this first set of garment house knitting patterns for release! i'm getting close. some of the bumps that have come up along the way have been really challenging and tough, but i'm thankful to just keep pushing through, learning as i go. it keeps me from freaking out about how nervous i am to actually share my patterns with everyone! i've heard some horror stories and even had some discouraging experiences already, but i've also heard some really encouraging things too. i hope the good outweighs the bad, and all this hard work will be worth it.<br />
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but good news! to test this [new to me] process of downloadable patterns, i've brushed off my <a href="http://garmenthouse.bigcartel.com/product/hot-water-bottle-cover-pattern">water bottle cover pattern</a>, revised it, and am now offering it as a PDF for sale in my <a href="http://garmenthouse.bigcartel.com/">garment house shop</a>. i've changed a couple things about the pattern for the better, but as always, make sure to let me know if you find any errors. <br />
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i don't know about you, but we're in full-blown hot water bottle season in our home! it has been snowing all day, and thankfully i have a bunch of newly test knit covers to make sure there's one for every bed in the house.<br />
<br />ellybethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00335353143797528543noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1011065784593076627.post-77235123833348163102013-09-03T11:36:00.002-04:002013-09-03T11:37:49.593-04:00caramel apple galette<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://instagram.com/p/dx0zQKS1eo/"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0M57v7CV7a9RKFI4-iQhZ60efXdYPyl4eOrMbMQ_IzyVf8VIEQKKclIyxkecHROiYsfm6Kn_FTjJP16Z-A_lQnb5nRqnmv8N_o5TJFdO_jHKQnFO4g_mTvICcwz-KIhcAn6kziESA/s640/caramelapplegalette.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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i kept seeing people post tempting pictures of galettes on instagram this weekend, so by labor day, i finally broke down. we had a couple of apples from our friend's apple tree that were just on the edge of being too soft to bite into, so it was perfect timing. this dessert was so simple and satisfying, and was an appropriately american dessert for a holiday weekend. besides needing some direction on baking times from <a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/APPLE-GALETTE-235860">epicurious</a>, i made this up as i went.<br />
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<i>caramel apple galette</i></div>
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<i>serves 4-6</i></div>
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<i>pie crust</i></div>
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<i>filling:</i></div>
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<i>sliced apples (i used four small green, and two medium galas)</i></div>
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<i>1 tbsp sugar (only if you prefer)</i></div>
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<i>handful of caramels</i></div>
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<i>splash of citrus</i></div>
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<i>cinnamon</i></div>
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<i>grated nutmeg</i></div>
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<i>dash of cloves</i></div>
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<i>mix apple filling together and carefully wrap into the pie crust without tearing. brush sides with milk and sprinkle with sugar. bake in a preheated 450 degree oven for 20 minutes, then lower the heat to 375 degrees and bake for another 30 minutes, or until crust is dark golden brown. cool for 10 minutes. once the caramel that has melted out of the galette cools, break and stick into ice cream or tops of sliced galette. enjoy!</i></div>
ellybethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00335353143797528543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1011065784593076627.post-82855851072114050062013-08-30T15:56:00.000-04:002013-08-30T16:17:59.629-04:00baby knits<br />
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<a href="http://instagram.com/p/PNNAogS1bd/"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE8wtnSlriAGbIybDgtrhvHbR1Gt5l-f4I4bbNLlWUNi1GWrR3Qp9uFgmIiFfDsyl8j9OOWj0I7SvLwyDSl7Y6y0BZ3ZzKl05FHT2c_SOzbzJ8xfb3Ok_zOK_mGcrTq3UxgNZhcLCd/s640/IMG_20120905_140138.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.yarnmarket.com/generate/book_reader.cfm?action=show_project&project_id=7717&product_id=7982">little bertie blazer</a> from <a href="http://www.knittingfever.com/c/sublime/book/917/?pattern=9559">sublime #640 booklet</a> in <a href="http://www.knittingfever.com/c/yarn/sublime-baby-cashmere-merino-silk-dk/?color=300">cashmere merino silk dk</a></span></div>
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over the last couple years of physical pain and medical trails, i've knit more and more to keep my sanity. even after my diagnosis of infertility, i would wistfully knit baby items as weird way of letting things go. friends would have babies, and i'd usually pass on these little tiny knits thankful to have a gift on hand to give. some i held onto, waiting for time to help me ease my grip and let go even more.<br />
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<a href="http://instagram.com/p/cRoQCvS1XJ/"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX2ybENMgTwVrCk7yF4kN2DsmjULCXKf2uzMzn2xEj9_USPBSYhCCFogpAxnaiwL1sennj9bwCuSsA-mtjZd7Vpo14MWGDOlJJVt3SfN2FmYm6Ebij1HzlvvAx-zT82sz5tJ6ngqJS/s640/IMG_4948.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">blocking the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/chunky-knit-cardigan">chunky knit cardigan</a> from erika knight's book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Simple-Knits-Cherished-Babies-Knight/dp/1843404788">simple knits for cherished babies</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">made in <a href="http://www.lionbrand.com/yarns/fisher.htm">lion brand fishermen's wool</a></span></div>
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and then i found out i was pregnant, and something crazy happened. i was terrified to knit baby things. i'm not a superstitious person, but there was something so scary to me about knitting specifically for one person, knowing there was a chance that little person wouldn't make it. i was afraid to have a physical reminder linked to longing and hope. but just like all medical trials, a short, two week period of bed rest early on in me knowing about my pregnancy gave me little other to do than pick up the knitting needles. i found that the more i knit, the more i felt ready for whatever was ahead. <br />
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<a href="http://instagram.com/p/cHVtgPS1bE/"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3j9l5yHZepUi5eooY4tU8dl9VNT5CagKiZLLYF0czMMfDxRP9Gf2NyKwzAJXihwKUdBsjY9QvujzruJb2NLER1k1Djdj7ImGGBzxZc21xSHKSur1IZ7a-ivNTNvKQEsLPpZSQIALD/s640/photo+%25285%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.knittingonthenet.com/patterns/babyswezipback.htm">Zip Up The Back Hooded Baby Sweater</a> in <a href="https://www.colinette.com/products/Cadenza-%252d-Thunder.html">Colinette Cadenza in Thunder</a></div>
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i <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/garmenthouse/zip-up-the-back-hooded-baby-sweater">started off</a> with a tiny <a href="http://www.knittingonthenet.com/patterns/babyswezipback.htm">zip up the back hooded baby sweater</a>, an all time favorite item my mother-in-law had knit for my daughter years ago. i have yet to add the zipper, but absolutely loved the pattern and the finished, tiny result. i'm so glad this classic pattern has been made available for free!</div>
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<a href="http://instagram.com/p/dZ9Q35S1TX/"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRRQgQzXO6iWU5H8oLXKvyFIM1PqyEmZUQHvGhmTT1Jr2g5HZUKqHMzXpLkCcC21uzkDHAAfOomMVyCgizwoCIpNOPXYjRxpCc65L7an7O2PM8hBTEBDE9oQArtFNVnXcjZK9iw9Ny/s400/photo+%25282%2529.jpg" width="300" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/p/dZqzjrS1c7/"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyKysmJWEhvZbkcF9yhxcXp0mFqq6bzqWwMdC6co8ru9AVIovire5mtDfTSUnDnPwTFNVFp34C4NXTqPwzSVpLdpI2DX-244OsHf9nrjYW0TGeWg6oEcY8ZwE7KSGWKsXQl9bqa5UW/s400/photo+%25284%2529.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/chunky-knit-cardigan">chunky knit cardigan</a> from erika knight's book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Simple-Knits-Cherished-Babies-Knight/dp/1843404788">simple knits for cherished babies</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">made in <a href="http://www.lionbrand.com/yarns/fisher.htm">lion brand fishermen's wool</a></span><br />
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since our baby will be born somewhere around the end of the year, i was convinced i needed to knit something even teenier for it to wear right away! i used an <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/chunky-knit-cardigan">old favorite pattern</a> from erika knight's book, simple knits for cherished babies, and added my own garter stitch shawl collar after everything was seamed. the pattern calls for chunky yarn, so i might be pushing it with this lion brand fishermen's wool dk/worsted weight yarn. it's pretty little, but babies usually are! we've taken a poll in the house and have decided all it needs it a little tiny pocket and leather buttons. and a smoking pipe.<br />
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<a href="http://instagram.com/p/dpVTnjS1TB/"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRK82xTHY4pXZeHq3GbpT_RCmO_2oQRz_uohgBQlJIX606M1luHphDmCEbPORq6AlWs3k-U0zb1PX0ZV7FEc72VnZL7vhHLO6Y0l1TdtBI52ZU0nuGB55oQ2qCGa7YfLZgnqam5SVH/s640/photo+%25281%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://fuzzygalore.biz/patterns/cbbooties.shtml">christine's baby booties</a> using <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/yarn--fiber-en/yarn-color/yellows/stroll-sock-yarn.html">knitpicks stroll in dove heather</a></span></div>
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i'm only halfway through my next project, but it's turning out so perfectly, i had to share! this is another classic pattern that has been made available for free online. word is, they're the absolute best and actually stay on babies feet! i originally saw <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Spindelicious/christines-stay-on-baby-booties-4">spindelicious' perfect version on ravelry</a> and would still love to knit an exact pair. i thought i'd test out the pattern first using the <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/yarn--fiber-en/yarn-color/yellows/stroll-sock-yarn.html">knitpicks stroll</a> i had on hand, and am so happy i did. the pattern is great, i just made sure to slip that first stitch purlwise for the top of the toe section, knit or purl to the end and then knit or purl two together (like turning the second half of short row heel on a sock). i am much happier with the result as opposed to whatever the pattern was asking me to do that i obviously could not wrap my head around. oh, and i also shortened the cuff by 12 rows only because i was getting bored and tired. i included the eyelets the pattern suggests, and plan on knitting an i-cord for the ankle out of a contrasting yarn to make them a little more interesting. possibly a black and white tweed. <br />
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i'm sure i'll be fine if all i ever knit were these couple things, but if anyone else has some favorite baby patterns to pass on, i'd love to check them out! <br />
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<br />ellybethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00335353143797528543noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1011065784593076627.post-40381430487144058932013-08-28T15:36:00.001-04:002013-08-30T16:12:37.840-04:00well, hello!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHupLGfV6wAtikMJ-OzWywzbUVC64OyawhsK-6P0HQlr2rxtv03ysYinKV2mmt7E3iQvHErEdB9xK1kxzFzqGE996TDGc6FjKvwyNRGPofh75NIGYvgzlFvUcd_Hkpsdda8dSSg9Hl/s1600/ultrasound.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHupLGfV6wAtikMJ-OzWywzbUVC64OyawhsK-6P0HQlr2rxtv03ysYinKV2mmt7E3iQvHErEdB9xK1kxzFzqGE996TDGc6FjKvwyNRGPofh75NIGYvgzlFvUcd_Hkpsdda8dSSg9Hl/s640/ultrasound.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">one of the toughest years of my life, will end with one of the <a href="http://instagram.com/p/dkBVrby1XK/">biggest miracles</a>!</td></tr>
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i've missed you! life has been a little nuts over the last year(s), but i'll kick things off with some incredible news! doug and i were in the middle of embracing a heartbreaking diagnosis of infertility (and impending hysterectomy) when the most amazing miracle surprised both us and my doctors - a sweet baby boy who is due to arrive in december! i am still in complete shock and at a loss for words. i can say i'm 23 weeks along and thankful to be feeling better than i've felt in years! thank you for all your kind support and concern in the meantime. i'm slowly picking back up the neglected pieces of my life, and hope to even share some work with everyone here soon! i'm just taking it one tiny babystep at a time. winkyface!</div>
ellybethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00335353143797528543noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1011065784593076627.post-16557494349231048042012-03-09T22:35:00.000-05:002012-03-13T18:03:15.931-04:00baktus and sandal weather<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6968433057/"><img alt="baktus scarf" height="448" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7061/6968433539_2f44d52154_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6968433013/" title="baktus scarf by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="baktus scarf" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7067/6968433013_62e764544f_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6968432651/" title="baktus scarf by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="baktus scarf" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7057/6968432651_b097e834da_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">edit: since so many asked, the sandals i'm wearing are gee'wawa maria fisherman in grey. </span></i></div>
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another week gone by. i really can't believe it's march already. those couple months of being sick have made me feel like i missed a good portion of this winter, but oh well. i'm just glad to be up and about!<br />
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i decided it was time for another garter stitch project and this simple <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/norwayneedles/2963651011/">baktus pattern</a> was super quick and fun. i would have finished it in one sitting instead of two had i not set the scarf down, picked it back up and started increasing every other row instead of every fourth row! even though the sudden jut where i changed the increase rate caught my attention over and over, i kept knitting away until the halfway point when the decreasing instructions made me realize what i had done. my lazy self considered leaving it, but i really wanted a less dramatic triangle than what i had made, so out it came. even though i had to knit half the scarf twice, this pattern is still a new favorite. and the cotton <a href="http://www.elmore-pisgah.com/colors.htm">peaches and creme</a> in faded denim really made this a perfect scarf for the quickly approaching spring.ellybethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00335353143797528543noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1011065784593076627.post-74315920117243087482012-03-02T13:47:00.005-05:002012-03-07T11:24:15.432-05:00oh man, it's friday?<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6800865414/" title="oh man, it's friday? by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="oh man, it's friday?" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7037/6800865414_4576d3225b_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6946974369/" title="oh man, it's friday? by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="oh man, it's friday?" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7191/6946974369_f4abe583be_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6800865802/" title="oh man, it's friday? by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="oh man, it's friday?" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7192/6800865802_c4bc88cb23_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6946973835/" title="oh man, it's friday? by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="oh man, it's friday?" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7054/6946973835_9a26720692_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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i mean, t.g.i.f. this week really went fast, which means something good - i'm slowly getting better and out of the house! it's been so nice to slowly emerge back into the land of the living. so nice in fact, i'm holding back on the exclamation points. i'm getting the office whipped back into shape which means i crossed off number one on the <a href="http://garmenthouse.blogspot.com/2011/12/facing-new-year.html">new years goals list</a>. i also spent most of the week trying to wrap my brain around some difficult pattern drafting for my knitting machine which is also a goal for this year. i'm breaking the last goal as we speak though by exercising, blogging and listening to music all at the same time. i'm not aiming for perfection.<br />
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i know i said i'd have a couple knitting patterns to post on here, and i still plan on sharing them. i tried working through editing them this morning, but have one too many knitting patterns floating around in my head right now. soon, i promise!ellybethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00335353143797528543noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1011065784593076627.post-88432107230130294272012-02-21T14:40:00.000-05:002012-03-07T11:25:00.555-05:00small knitting<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6917765671/" title="My take on the Garter Stitch Fingerless Mittens and Hat by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="My take on the Garter Stitch Fingerless Mittens and Hat" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7041/6917765671_c80e9f7680_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6917765071/" title="My take on the Garter Stitch Fingerless Mittens and Hat by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="My take on the Garter Stitch Fingerless Mittens and Hat" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7038/6917765071_94ab86472f_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6917767235/" title="My take on the Garter Stitch Fingerless Mittens and Hat by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="My take on the Garter Stitch Fingerless Mittens and Hat" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7187/6917767235_6a54eb24a4_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6917769389/" title="dishcloths and placemats by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="dishcloths and placemats" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7190/6917769389_5b987c9a91_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6917770433/" title="dishcloths and placemats by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="dishcloths and placemats" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7042/6917770433_f1c1e5d9f4_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6917773261/" title="dishcloths and placemats by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="dishcloths and placemats" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7036/6917773261_734a18c9be_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6917768713/" title="tea, loads of tea by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="tea, loads of tea" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7202/6917768713_0b6d1ca0db_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
<br />
here are a couple small projects i've been working on - dishcloths, placemats, and my take on <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/870155/childs-knit-hat">this hat</a> and <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/870156/childs-knit-hand-warmer?czone=crafts/knitting-projects-cnt/knitting-projects&center=856242&gallery=854321&slide=869434">fingerless mittens</a> from that <a href="http://thecraftsdept.marthastewart.com/2012/01/knitting-in-for-january.html">beautiful article</a> in the january issue of martha stewart living about knitting. i've been living off easy knitting projects that only take a couple hours to complete, and in the process, have discovered the beauty of the garter stitch.<br />
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i hope to be posting an itty bitty pattern i wrote soon too!ellybethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00335353143797528543noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1011065784593076627.post-44391566220485513992012-02-17T14:39:00.001-05:002012-02-17T14:39:04.396-05:00matters of the heart<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6892803429/" title="valentines day by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="valentines day" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7187/6892803429_35afc47ee7_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6892804681/" title="valentines day by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="valentines day" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7053/6892804681_cc4d9077e9_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6892802077/" title="valentines day by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="valentines day" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7045/6892802077_f7b1197460_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6892806609/" title="valentines day by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="valentines day" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7058/6892806609_4fb1c0cb53_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6892806059/" title="valentines day by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="valentines day" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7045/6892806059_696f247cbe_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6892807863/" title="valentines day by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="valentines day" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7208/6892807863_8e9481d994_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6892808215/" title="valentines day by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="valentines day" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7179/6892808215_f86739e01f_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
<br />
wow, thank you all for your kind and encouraging words. thanks for listening.<br />
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i have good news to report. this week has been slowly getting better! on monday and tuesday, i thought i was relapsing again into... well... whatever's been going on (another infection? ulcer? i've never felt so out of touch with my body), but wednesday went much better than most days in the last couple weeks. i actually got out of the house and spent a wonderful morning and afternoon with my valentine. the fresh air, the sun, the snow... i could tell as soon as i stepped out the door that my relationship with the great outdoors has been a little strained. you know i still love you, boo.<br />
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it's hard to ease back into to doing something, anything at all during the day. it's been a little emotionally bumpy to try to figure out what i can handle. underneath all the doing, what's buried deep in your heart - your motivations for doing things, your anger, your selfishness - rises to the surface in trying times and it's been hard to slow down and deal with it. as painful and revealing it can be, being honest and vulnerable with the people around you is always the better choice. maybe not everyone feels this, but i do.ellybethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00335353143797528543noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1011065784593076627.post-43252463935991911762012-02-13T19:14:00.000-05:002012-03-07T11:26:24.453-05:00blue<div style="text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6872623107/" title="blue by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="blue" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7186/6872623107_29ba57a4f9_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6872624557/" title="blue by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="blue" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7210/6872624557_072253d5ed_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6872620393/" title="blue by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="blue" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7178/6872620393_0feed873c6_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6872621887/" title="blue by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="blue" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7186/6872621887_a0bb8c4f4a_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6872621287/" title="blue by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="blue" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7059/6872621287_c45206f709_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>my recovery regime :: loads of kusmi tea and chocolate sent by kind friends + comfy clothes (the <a href="http://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/sleepwear/PRDOVR~58405/99102548155/ENE~1+2+3+22+4294967294+20~~~0~15~all~mode+matchallany~~~~~vintage%20henley/58405.jsp">top</a> and <a href="http://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/accessories/hosiery/PRDOVR~31528/31528.jsp">camp socks</a> from doug and <a href="http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=21011200&color=080&color=080&itemdescription=true&navAction=jump&search=true&isProduct=true&parentid=SEARCH+RESULTS">bottoms</a> from my sister jenah have kicked my usual "<a href="http://i.mediatakeout.com/photo/1271419952fp_4850136.jpg">athletic huxtable</a>" look up a notch) + plenty of knitting (why yes, i have taken up <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6872625943/">designing doll clothes</a> in my spare time. and sometimes i talk to the dolls. and they always understand me.) </i></span></div>
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it's getting to be a challenge to not feel blue about still being sick. a recent unexpected emergency room trip (that's dumb, when do you expect to go to the e.r.?) sent us into a spiral of more tests and no real answers yet. everything was really starting to wear on all of us, and then some people stopped by unannounced to just sit and visit. the house is in a constant state of mess, i'm usually far from presentable and i'm starting to really care less. the most recent visitors did so much to lift my spirits. their encouraging words gave me a burst of hope. right after they left, i was listening to a podcast that mentioned that patients in hospitals who are told encouraging words actually have a much higher chance of recovering faster. i believe it. <br />
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the emotional challenge of whatever is going on is hard, but i still feel so well cared for. just when we need it, we'll get a call, a text, an email, a care package in the mail, or someone stopping by with dinner. it's making me realize that the thoughtfulness and kindness behind what you do is just as sustaining as the physical act of taking care of others.ellybethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00335353143797528543noreply@blogger.com43tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1011065784593076627.post-63065341610626953962012-02-03T15:31:00.000-05:002012-03-07T11:27:49.815-05:00prison crafts<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6813486147/" title="prison crafts by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="prison crafts" height="568" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7169/6813486147_eabed60d06_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6813485057/"><img alt="prison crafts" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7147/6813483953_7e6e647a14_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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oh man, i've started in on the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/412-Cotton-Loops-16oz-Bag/dp/B001UKVQ7A">kid crafts</a>. i'm just a step away from making license plates in my spare time. i think i need to get out of the house. <br />
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at least i had an instant use for this fun pastime - little thank you gifts for the caring friends who have made my family meals while i've been sick. people have been so thoughtful, showing up at our door with delicious food right when we need it.ellybethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00335353143797528543noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1011065784593076627.post-28568731136932729052012-02-03T14:20:00.001-05:002012-03-07T11:26:55.981-05:00the last of the last<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6813194799/" title="the last of the last by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="the last of the last" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7029/6813194799_cc45734fbe_b.jpg" width="800" /></a><br />
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it feels good to be sold out! i forgot anything was even left in my shop. thank you customers, you sure are the best. how refreshing to start 2012 off with a clean slate!ellybethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00335353143797528543noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1011065784593076627.post-15663979702959008092012-02-02T18:06:00.000-05:002013-08-31T12:19:33.391-04:00valen-tiny<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6809042081/" title="hooded baby sweater by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="hooded baby sweater" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7142/6809042081_1c3f1a3c13_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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i finished another hand knit cardigan for a little friend's first birthday modifying this <a href="http://www.creativeknittingmagazine.com/newsletters.php?mode=article&article_id=2057">great pattern</a> just slightly so that i could make the body completely seamless. notice the use of the contrasting white again? baby sweaters are a perfect way to use up leftover yarn. i had just enough wool-ease in both the rose and natural heather. </div>
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but i'm afraid it's not going to fit and wish i could figure out if it will without ruining the surprise. i tried to dig through the baby clothes to see if i could compare it to anything i had on hand, but couldn't find a sweater, small jacket or sweatshirt in this size. anyone know of a chart online that would tell you such things?</div>
ellybethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00335353143797528543noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1011065784593076627.post-79391673349604604032012-02-01T12:28:00.000-05:002012-03-07T11:28:26.912-05:00garment house cardigan :: two<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6802105439/" title="garment house cardigan :: two by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="garment house cardigan :: two" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7024/6802105439_97fc64662d_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6802106235/" title="garment house cardigan :: two by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="garment house cardigan :: two" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7147/6802106235_e67a1b5d1d_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6802104305/" title="garment house cardigan :: two by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="garment house cardigan :: two" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7017/6802104305_c80f04a713_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6802106777/" style="display: block; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 0em; padding-left: 40px;" title="garment house cardigan :: two by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="garment house cardigan :: two" height="614" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7148/6802106777_fcc64fef06_z.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6802103315/" style="display: block; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0em;" title="garment house cardigan :: two by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="garment house cardigan :: two" height="614" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7030/6802103315_e973e310df_z.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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this was the first cardigan i ever tried to tackle on my knitting machine and i'm still amazed at how it fits because of two specific reasons. one is that it's completely my own pattern. two, and get ready to be surprised, my ideas for how i wanted this sweater to fit was really unstructured and it was a bit of an experiment just getting through the whole thing. i jotted down very loose guidelines to follow as i knit, but didn't take the time to copy down my notes along the way. that's why i made another right after (previous post), with the hopes of remembering what i did and drafting an official pattern that i could use again. funny thing is, i like the fit of the first better!
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for those of you who asked what type of knitting machine i use, i'm lucky to say that i have a couple! everything i've posted about so far has been made on a standard gauge machine without a ribber, and that's mainly what i use. it's a very basic model which in my opinion is the best to start with. if you're considering getting into machine knitting, i'd highly suggest finding a local m.k. group, sitting in on some meetings and seeing a machine in action! it's a much better way to approach machine knitting instead of making a $600 investment and having NO IDEA where to start. machine knitters are very passionate about what they do and it's infectious to be around if you are truly interested. had it not been for a kind dealer who answered every single one of my questions, helped me figure out what type of machine i was looking for, invited me to meetings, and patiently took the time to walk me through the bumps in the road of learning, i would have never stuck with it. it's now more exciting than it is frustrating to me, and geek alert! the click of a knitting machine now gives me goosebumps. i love it that much!ellybethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00335353143797528543noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1011065784593076627.post-18233077151005219902012-01-31T14:47:00.002-05:002012-03-07T11:28:45.539-05:00garment house cardigan<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6797225423/" title="garment house cardigan by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="garment house cardigan" height="661" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7009/6797225423_463091a9b9_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6797227725/" title="garment house cardigan by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="garment house cardigan" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7141/6797227725_b29a676097_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6797230885/" title="garment house cardigan by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="garment house cardigan" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7167/6797230885_3341948074_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6797232167/" title="garment house cardigan by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="garment house cardigan" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7166/6797232167_9407b9fe76_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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i was saving this design for one of my upcoming collections, but that's not happening any time soon. i said i'd share my machine knit projects i've been working on, and this cardigan is my most recent. it was finished back in november and i wore it all over <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6416242227/in/photostream/">new york</a> on our last visit. it's been worn quite a few times since, so please excuse the pills and wrinkles.ellybethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00335353143797528543noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1011065784593076627.post-41659953452178758852012-01-31T10:51:00.003-05:002012-03-07T11:36:26.415-05:00i'm experiencing k.m.w.<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6796080561/" title="more machine knit socks! by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="more machine knit socks!" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7017/6796080561_7fdd563786_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6796079859/" title="more machine knit socks! by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="more machine knit socks!" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7017/6796079859_6e77b38aa1_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6796081657/" title="more machine knit socks! by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="more machine knit socks!" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7164/6796081657_b6cc63785f_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
<br />
or knitting machine withdrawal. i haven't been able to work on my machine for weeks or even test out my christmas presents of new machine knitting gear. oh well, it gives me a chance to update my blog with m.k. projects i've finished.<br />
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i made these socks before christmas for my sister and brother-in-law, but only got around to sending them a couple weeks ago. who doesn't like a little christmas in january?ellybethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00335353143797528543noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1011065784593076627.post-67224642585160722822012-01-29T22:33:00.000-05:002012-03-07T11:30:16.996-05:00dala horse, party horse<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6786867227/" title="dala horse by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="dala horse" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7032/6786867227_1832f09df3_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6786868785/" title="party horse by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="party horse" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7170/6786868785_3df08c884b_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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what a rough start to 2012, but i'm not losing hope. i've had a lot of time to think of things i'd rather be doing than lying in my bed getting better from this nasty infection, not flu like i originally thought. i hope to be stocking the shop soon with items from a sweet little collaboration. and since everyone has been so awesome about my most recent knitting project, i've also been trying to work on translating the downton sweater to pattern. i'm almost there. i'll get it all out there once i'm back on my feet.<br />
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but, who knows when that will be. i know i'm always talking about resetting my expectations, and i guess i'm not done. the last month has taught me some hard lessons about weakness and limitations, but i'm so thankful for it. the right words and encouragement have been there when i need to remember what's really important, and i'm grateful to be surrounded by people who make it easy for me to be sick and get better. not like i'd want to do it again, but it's been a surprisingly uplifting time.ellybethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00335353143797528543noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1011065784593076627.post-49933182079811838442012-01-19T17:44:00.003-05:002012-03-07T11:31:05.004-05:00knitting and downton<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6727845337/" title="a little downton, a little knitting by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="a little downton, a little knitting" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7019/6727845337_d57026a9a7_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6727844625/" title="a little downton, a little knitting by ellybeth, on Flickr"><img alt="a little downton, a little knitting" height="536" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7008/6727844625_24d2903fb7_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6727850199/"><img alt="flickr138" height="616" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7026/6727871471_a7452ef6ef_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olivgron/6727849165/"><img alt="flickr137" height="616" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7171/6727869039_f4e63cd3b8_b.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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there has been no better time to feel under the weather than these last couple cold and snowy days. i'm tired of feeling cruddy, but have enjoyed making the most out of being stuck indoors and unable to much of anything. and how did i luck out on getting sick while there's actually something good to watch online? thank you, <a href="http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/masterpiece/downtonabbey/index.html">downton abbey</a>!<br />
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and what goes better with a period drama than knitting? after finishing a little valentine's present this last saturday, i decided to keep going on my hand knitting kick and see what i could make with four skeins of the <a href="http://www.jimmybeanswool.com/knitting/yarn/BrownSheep/LambsPrideBulky.asp?showLarge=true&specPCVID=4853">perfect shade of grey</a> lamb's pride wool. i had been searching for months for a project to dedicate such a small amount of yarn to, but couldn't find one. i considered adapting <a href="http://brooklyntweed.net/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2_4&products_id=63">this beautiful sweater</a> to a different gauge and smaller amount of wool, but was really itching to make something fast and easy. i was shooting for a sweater that was more like a sweatshirt and found the solution to be a patternless, completely seamless top-down raglan. i wasn't expecting to be so happy with the unplanned results! incorporating the off-white cascade eco wool helped put a dent in my always too full yarn basket and made this simple sweater just a little more interesting.<br />
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five days of straight knitting and a very comfortable sweater to show for it. and just in time for the weekend!<br />
<br />ellybethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00335353143797528543noreply@blogger.com24