Glasgow Fort Stitch 'N' Bitch

Our Amazing Ladies!

2012-03-02T02:23:00.000-08:00

Some photo's of our charity knitting before I show you why our knitting group ladies are amazing. All of these were knitted by Linda, Elaine and some of their friends from work.

These pretty jumpers were knitted by Alison.

This one was knitted by June. Her little granddaughter loved it so much she is now knitting a larger one for her.

Theses were knitted by Isobel. She especially loved knitting the hat in these colours.

Last, but not least, these were knitted by a friend of Alison, Caroline and Isabel. She brought them along for us on the night as it was the last day of collection

Roberta brought along all of the jumpers that the group had knitted so that we could photograph them.

Once they were all put out we counted them. In the space of just one month our group has knitted 126 jumpers which are going to babies in Africa with Aids. Roberta was very chuffed with the generosity of the group and of course of friends of the group who contributed. The lady from Roberta's church was at most expecting 20. Big thank you to everyone and please thank everyone from your work places who sent some in.

Despite all the charity knitting the group have still been working on other projects. Rhona finished knitting two jumpers. Her daughter, Freya, is the lucky recipient of one which you can see her happily wearing. Her older daughter is getting the second jumper. I love those colours. She is now working on something for her self for a change. A stripey top knitted in cotton.

Everyone has been loving these chicks. Caroline has designed the patter and knitted this one up. If you were to turn it upside down you would find a creme egg inside. This pattern is now being passed round so expect to see more of these. We said she should make up kits and sell them as Caroline's Chicks. She spent Tuesday sewing up some of the others she had knitted.

Helen has also been busy with her Japanese folded patchwork. She made this lovely wall hanging. The use of colours is very effective. She also brought along other fabrics for another Japanese folded patchwork project. This one is for her table and the colours she has picked out are beautiful.

Again a big thank you to everyone for handing in those charity jumpers. They truly were appreciated. As this is the year for short term charity projects we are still looking for more. So watch this space.

We have Gartmore at Home in a few weeks which we are all very much looking forward to. I finally sent out a materials list for the classes.

Valentine

2012-02-17T10:43:00.000-08:00

Magdalena had quite a few finishes this week. She finished this beautiful doily which she had been working on, on and off for a few years now. All done in cotton. She will be teaching us how to do it at the Gartmore at Home day.

She also finished two jumpers. The blue one is for her son Adam and the green is for her youngest Jan. Both knitted up beautifully. She is now working on another jumper using a lovely variegated yarn.

Alison also had a finish. With the help of Izzi she has been learning to quilt. This is her first one and, not surprisingly, she is very proud of it. I love all the fabrics especially the little owls.

We had another donation for Roberta's charity. This was done by Lyn who was working on another. I love the rainbow colours.

I also had a finish. I finished these socks for a friend. It has a lace pattern at the front. I am now working on another pair of socks but this time for Alison.

As it was Valentines day it was a fairly quiet night. Only a small group of us but yet lots going on. There was some baby knitting, crochet blankets, cross stitch projects and we were all given a Christmas tree pattern. Oh, and Suzanna was learning to crochet.

There were still lots of people knitting for the charity. The last day for hand in is a week on Tuesday which is the 28th.

I won't be there this week so there will be no post update.

On A Charity Roll!

2012-02-08T23:35:00.000-08:00

Everyone is on a roll with the charity jumpers. Seems to be addictive to knit. These two were done by Stephanie and Margaret. Stephanie is knitting yet another of these jumpers. Whilst Margaret has moved on to some baby clothes.

These were all knitted by Ally. She has been using up all her left over yarn and is still knitting more too.

Ally also brought these along. They were, however, knitted by her friend Karen. This is the first time she has knitted in years. To be honest I think these are my favourites. Particularly the stripey one.

Rhona came by just to drop these off. She also took the opportunity to use up some odds and ends.

Last, but not least, Lyn has also been using up her odds to knit a few. I love the colour combinations. She went on to knit other things which you will see in a moment.

There is only a couple of weeks left to hand in these jumpers. Roberta and her friend have been overwhelmed by how many have been handed in. Not including these ones she was able to hand in 19 so far.

This lovely cupcake cross stitch was done by Jill. She only started it in January and it didn't take her long at all to do. I love cupcake designs. She is now working on a teddy bear cross stitch.

This is what Lyn had moved on to knit. How cute is he? The majority of the hedgehog is knitted with yarn and then later she knits lace ribbon into it. Very effective and she has been knitting them in different colours. She's not knitting them for anything in particular but hands them in to charity.

I can announce that we have a full day for Gartmore at home and quite a mix of classes. We have Izzy teaching us how to sew cute bags. Anthea is going to teach us how to do a scrapbook page. Magdalena is going to teach us how to crochet those delicate lace doilies. We also have another offer from the lovely Val. She has offered to give a demonstration on Sashiko quilting. If you haven't seen it before it's truly beautiful. I can't wait for that.

Charity Jumpers and a Challenge

2012-02-01T13:39:00.000-08:00

Most people have been working on jumpers for charity this week. This is for one of our mini charities that we are doing this year. These jumpers are being collected by a friend of Roberta's and being sent to Africa for babies with aids. The only request is that we don't knit in white since it is the colour of mourning. The first two were knitted by Caroline. She used solid colours for the borders and variegated yarn for the main body. Looks quite good. The second set was by Margaret. The yellow hat is to go with a jumper she handed over the week before. The last one is by Stephanie. All three had another of these on the pins. We are only collecting these until the end of next month so members are free to suggest another charity.

Magdalena finished the jumper she had been working on the week before. As you can see it was for her daughter Suzanna. It's done in lovely variegated yarn with lots of lovely cables up the front. The colour can be folded over to add warmth. Suzanna loves it so much that she has worn it several times since finished already. Magdalena is now working on a jumper for one of her sons.

We have some planned events over the next few months which I can now announce. We are probably only going to have one challenge this year as so many other things are proving popular. The photo above gives a hint as to what the challenge is going to be. Basically people can make what they want. Anything at all. The only rule is that they can only use odds and ends. Anything left over form previous projects whether it's fabric or yarn. Scraps only. There will be more time to make something this time round as challenge night won't be until the 28th August. There will be the usual two categories of original and adapted but I've added a third category. Since we have three younger members there is now a junior entry.

Our first Gartmore at home has also been organised and we have already filled the day with classes. It will take place on the 17th March. No real theme although I have suggested that if people want they can make it a spring theme. Four classes have been organised. Once again Izzy has offered her services and this time she is teaching us to sew cute little bags. Anthea is going to teach us how to make a scrapbook page. Magdalena has offered two classes. She is going teach a class on how to crochet those delicate doilies plus on how to knit in the European style. Donna is also going to be there that day to offer up emergency crochet help. No specific class, just bring along your crochet woes and she will lend a hand.

The next date also involves our Donna. She announced a few weeks back that she is expecting. I can now announce that her baby shower will take place on the 12th June.

Swap Night!

2012-01-27T01:13:00.000-08:00

Tuesday there we had our swap night. We hold one of these every 4months or so. It's a good way to get rid of craft things we aren't going to use that someone else might want. Plus it's a good way to pick up something we might like. What we don't use goes to a charity shop which Roberta works in. It was mainly paper and scrapbook supplies this time round. Oh, and there are usually a wee pile of fiction books brought along.

We haven't chosen a charity this year. For the last few years one of the group has always requested we make something for a charity with a short deadline. So we thought that this year would be dedicated to lots of these. Our first one was a request from Roberta. A friend is knitting these jumpers for her church and they are then being sent to children in Africa. The patter is simple and quick. The only request is that they not be knitted in white and that any jumpers should be handed in by the end of February. These jumpers were knitted by Roberta, Margaret and Stephanie.

Roberta had a first time finish. Izzy (also pictured) has been teaching Roberta and Alison how to quilt. This is Roberta's finished attempt and it looks beautiful. I love the colourful fabrics. Plus it is backed with fleece which is very effective. Roberta spend the rest of the night working on some crochet.

Margaret also had a finish. She has spent the last few weeks knitting this lovely Aran jumper. With the snow we just got she is going to need it. She is now working on a lighter top in black.

Helen finished a pair of socks that she knitted for herself. She used the same yarn I used for socks knitted before Christmas. She likes the effect but wasn't impressed with the yarn as it was inconsistent in thickness throughout. She is more than half way through knitting a baby blanket for a friend.

I finished these socks too. Unfortunately you can't see the pattern too clearly because of the colour of the yarn. I knitted these for a friends birthday and I started another pair in purple for a friend.

Elaine had a finish at the end of the night. She was knitting this beautiful baby shawl for a friend. It hasn't been blocked yet but this was the only chance we would see it so I took a photo while I could. I love the circular pattern.

We have a Gartmore at home currently being organised, a baby shower and Gartmore itself so there are more events to come.

For Our American Friends

2012-01-22T14:13:00.000-08:00

Isabel has just come back from visiting her grandchildren in America. They live in California and the highlight of Isabel's year is going over to visit them. One of the things she looks forward to is working on craft projects with her granddaughter and she always comes back with tales of what they worked on. This time her granddaughter gave her a project and she brought it along to show us.

These hoops were given to Isabel's granddaughter by the Scouts. The kids use them to make hats which are then given to charity.

The yarn is wrapped around the pegs of the hoops. The yarn that has first been wound round the pegs is then pull up over the second winding and over the peg. Much like a knitting nancy only on a much larger scale.

These hats are the end product. Isabel has mixed two different yarns together to make them thicker and give them that lovely speckled look. Apparently these hops can also be used to make scares and shawls too.

Magdalena had another finished project this week. This is a jumper she started working on just before Christmas. It's knitted in a lovely tweed yarn. Love how it has turned out. She is now knitting a jumper for her daughter Suzanna using variegated yarn.

Margaret got this cross stitch kit for her Christmas. She enjoyed it so much she couldn't put it down and two weeks later she had it finished and framed. She is now back to working on an aran jumper for herself.

I am actually more than a little jealous of the person receiving this beautiful crochet hook case. This was stitched by the talented Izzy. I just love the fabric she used to make it. She is now working on a lovely chunky, icelandic style jumper for a friends daughter.

Next meeting we have our first swap night of the year. Something for us to look forward to. We have also begun planning the next Gartmore at home.

We also started our first charity of the year. Looks like this year might be one of mini charities rather than concentrating on just the one. For now Roberta is collecting baby jumpers for her friends church. They are going to orphans in Africa. There is a patter available along with a pattern for a matching hat. They have to be in by the end of February. The only request is that they are not done in white.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-17T07:30:00.000-08:00

Yes we are back and all fresh. I have lots of photo finishes for you. First of all though I hope you all had a fab New Year. Sadly I didn't write down what people were working on. We can though welcome two new members. Lyn and Fiona came along for the first time on Tuesday. Lyn was crocheting blankets for charity and Fiona was learning to crochet. Lyn also brough along lots of goodies for the group. Thank you Lyn!

I also have some fantastic news. Our Donna is expecting her first baby. This of course means that we will have a baby shower this year. Congratulations Donna!

Our Dawn didn't make it along on Tuesday but the week before she had emailed me with this photo. Evidence that she has indeed finished knitting a pair of socks. They look fab too. Wonder if I will be able to convince her to knit more?

Anthea was lucky enough to get a Kindle for her Christmas. It's her new baby which she carries everywhere with her. So she made it this cute crochet case.

Stephanie has also been busy knitting this lovely sparkly jumper. Also, this one is not being carefully put away. It had been intended for herself but is now going to her daughter.

Linda finished this lovely crochet blanket using variegated yarn. This one is done in granny stripes which was taught to us by Donna.

Roberta was also knitting for other people. She knitted this lovely jumper for her son. She says the arms might look too long but if she had went by the pattern they would have been too short.

Helen brought along this beautiful cushion. It's done by weaving ribbon and she was taught how to make it by Carol who ran a class at one of the quilting groups. This was very much admired by everyone.

Magdalena started knitting this beautiful lacy scarf a few years ago. It was intended for her sons Christening (he is now 3). All that had to be done was to pull in the ends. So when she came across it again she finished it off. It looks lovely.

She has also been busy with her sewing. Magdalena has made another dress for her daughter's Irish dancing. It always amazes me to see the detail in her work. It shouldn't mind you, she is such a talented lady.

I am sure this only the start of many fantastic finishes this year. We do have some more events planned too. The first is a swap night which will take place on the 24th January.

Christmas Crafting

2011-11-26T02:51:00.001-08:00

Our group has been busy crafting for Christmas ever since we had that craft day with a Christmas theme. Alison has been especially busy along with Roberta. They are neighbours and decided to have their own craft day and got quite a lot done. Alison made the stockings after her lesson from Izzy. She also made some more Japanese folded bags which was originally taught by Helen. Caroline also gave her the pattern for the lovely knitted stockings for the tree. All of these are actually planned for someone.

As I said Roberta has also been busy. She managed quite a few of the stitched stockings too. I have to say I love the teddy bear fabric. She also managed to stitch some of the Japanese folded bags and knitted a stocking. She also knitted this lovely Santa Sack which will also go up on the tree.

Margaret has also been busy Christmas wise. She knitted a set of tree stockings and mitts and decorated them with little Christmas buttons. She got this idea and pattern from Caroline (we are a very sharing group). These are all going out to family members. She also knitted this snowman. I should have actually posted it last week but the photo didn't turn out. This tuneful snowman was given to me.

A few weeks ago we had a swap night. One of the items on the swap table was a book of patterns to knit dolls from Raggy Dolls. Anyone remember that cartoon? Dawn pointed it out and Margaret picked it up. It didn't take her long to knit Sad Sack for her youngest daughter who was a huge fan of the cartoon.

This doll is the perfect example of group work. Ally knitted the doll with a pattern from Caroline. Caroline stitched her up and gave it to Alison who commissioned them to make it. The yarn was picked out from odds and ends and go surprisingly well together.

Despite being busy myself I also had a knitting finish. I managed to knit these socks which are a gift to my sister.

Anthea decided to spend her time waiting on her daughter at dancing constructively. She managed to crochet the entire scarf in the 45mins she waited. As a result she has promised to teach on of the other mums who was waiting with her.

Isabel also had a finish. Isabel likes to try out new things and she decided to do some jewellery making. This lovely bracelet is her first attempt.

Last but not least Caroline has also been busy (when she isn't sewing up dolls). She was asked by her work to knit a cactus for an event they are planning. She found a pattern and finished knitting it fairly quickly. She has also been knitting phone socks for friends. The photo above is one she knitted for herself and was the pattern she used for her friends. Love the little flower decoration.

Girls have been busy!

2011-11-22T06:44:00.001-08:00

Two of our youngest members have been busy the last few weeks. Miriam finished knitting a lovely yellow and white scarf. You can see her with it here and she gave it to Freya as a gift. She has also been learning to cross stitch and made this lovely card.

Freya has also been busy. She made these lovely animals using decoupage and kindly talked me through how she did it. Both girls are now working on some cross stitch.

Rhona has once again been working away. This time on some stitching. She made these lovely toy cats in a weekend.

Last week I again didn't make it along. Margaret though, finished these lovely cross stitch Christmas cards. She also finished knitting a snowman which she gave to me. I will have a photo of that for next time.

Finishes - Gartmore at Home - Christmas Craft Day

2011-11-13T12:52:00.001-08:00

This is the last post featuring our Christmas craft day, I promise. This one is actually more about the finishes that were brought along. Magdalena finished her lovely scarf using the cancan yarn. Like everyone else who has used it she found she had plenty leftover to make another one.

Linda took the lesson we had on the last Gartmore at home and expanded on it. She made a larger version of the drawstring bag and then cross stitched on to the front of it. This is a gift for a friend who keeps her knitting in a carrier bag. Have to admit I am a little jealous.

Between joining in classes Magdalena spent the day sewing a zip onto this beautiful jumper. This is for her son Adam. She has another one in green for her youngest.

We also had a little visitor along. Aileen brought her little girl, Olivia, for a visit. She managed to sleep through all our chatting and laughter.

As you might be able to tell it was a good day and we will definitely be doing it again sometime after Christmas. As I mentioned earlier we have lots more photo's and you'll find them on our facebook page. Just type in Glasgow Fort StitchNBitch into the search.

Napkin Folding - Gartmore at Home - Christmas Craft Day

2011-11-12T02:05:00.001-08:00

Last but not least of the classes on Saturday was the napkin folding. Alison has worked in hotels for years. When someone said they would like to learn how to fold napkins she kindly offered to teach everyone.

Just about everyone wanted to take part in this class. First off she taught everyone how to make the rabbit ears which then sit in a glass.

You can see Izzy here showing them off.

Next was the fan.

I am ashamed to say that I can't remember what this one is called but it looks quite pretty. Alison suggested sitting this napkin in a basket which you can then fill with goodies.

Last but not least was the soltare. The can stand on their own like the fans. Unlike the fans though you can sit something in the centre. I think this one will be the favourite.

As you can see everyone seemed to enjoy the class. I think it's safe to saw we enjoyed the entire day. There were even a few people commenting that it was even better than the last one. So we will definitely be doing another Gartmore at home after Christmas.

This isn't the last Gartmore at Home post as there were some finished projects brought along for me to photograph. I'll post that soon. In the meantime I just want to thank the lovely ladies for the fantastic classes. Thank you Izzy, Elaine, Helen and Alison. Also, thank you to everyone who came along and a big thank you to the Glasgow Fort team who once again allowed us to use their space.

Christmas Cards - Gartmore at Home - Christmas Craft Day

2011-11-11T01:32:00.001-08:00

Helen is famous in the group for her card making and scrap booking skills. When we talked about having a Christmas themed day she kindly offered to teach people how to make a simple Christmas card.

Helen even had these packs made up for everyone. They came with instructions as well as all the pieces they would need to make the card.

We used the table in the foyer of the management suite for this as it meant people could still decorate cakes and sew stockings if they wished to.

The class was done in sessions so that everyone could take part. As you can see everyone went home with a beautifully made card. Thank you Helen.

Again there are more photo's than this and they are all on our facebook page. I just have one more update from our craft fair to do and that one involves a napkin folding class from Alison.

Stockings - Gartmore at Home - Christmas Craft Day

2011-11-10T00:56:00.000-08:00

Izzy kindly gave us another sewing lesson. This time she taught us to make little stockings that we can hang up at Christmas. Stephanie here is being taught how to add the fur to the top.

You can see Julie and Linda working away on the sewing machine.

Julie was the first to finish a stocking. Very cute and can hold Christmas goodies.

Freya and Miriam also had a shot and made some stockings.

Some, like Margaret, made more than one after that first lesson.

Izzy even gave Linda a quick lesson on how to make a pencil case. Love the fabric. The sewing lessons are always a huge success. Thanks to Izzy's wonderful teaching no one goes away with out completing something.

Again these aren't all the photo's. There are more on our facebook page. Still have classes from Helen and Alison to go.

Cupcakes - Gartmore at Home - Christmas Craft Day

2011-11-09T06:25:00.000-08:00

Our second Gartmore at home day was a bigger success than the first. This one had a Christmas theme in order to help people think of craft things to do for Christmas. First of all we had a fantastic cupcake decorating lesson from Elaine. She showed us two different ways of decorating the cakes.

Miriam and Freya also joined in and very much enjoying it. They clearly have some natural talent at it too as they turned out perfectly.

Donna's sister, Julie, was along and had a go too.

As punishment for the video, Elaine took my camera off me. So I now know how it feels to be at the other side of the lens (it's still not going to stop me, ha ha)

We also had a surprise visit from Sheena. Was lovely to see her and she was able to stay long enough to be roped into decorating some cakes.

The lovely thing was that many people were able to go up and decorate a few more later in the day. I think everyone very much enjoyed this lesson. They especially enjoyed eating Elaine's baking (as we always do).

Elaine put lots of prep into this and I can safely say we all appreciated it. So thank you. There were of course more lessons which I will post separately. I also haven't posted every photo here as I went a little crazy with the camera. You will find them all on our facebook page though.

Our first video!

2011-11-06T02:24:00.000-08:00

I usually take photo's when people are giving a class or a demo. Yesterday I had some inspiration and hit record on my camera. Poor Elaine was the guinea pig. Apologies that it's on it's side. I did try to fix it with no success.

A quick update!

2011-11-05T10:09:00.000-07:00

Apologies for the lack of updates the last few weeks. I haven't been able to make it along that often. Thankfully my lovely mother, Margaret, stepped in and took some photo's during my absence. I thought I would post them together here.

First of all Helen finished a lovely scarf she crocheted. She used leftover sock yarn which turned out to be very effective. Looks lovely too.

Anthea has also been doing some crochet. She finished this lovely bunting. Love the colours.

Stephanie finished this lovely baby set. All done in self striping wool. Our group very much loves the self striping wool.

The shoe box charity is also finished this year. Linda is currently sending them all away. Before she did some of the ladies helped to wrap some boxes. We also donated some of our funds towards sending them off.

Izzi also brought along some Christmas fabric. This was in preparation for our Gartmore at Home, Christmas craft day. You can see Roberta and Alison having a look through it.

The Christmas craft day was a huge success and I have lots of photo's to post. I will hopefully do that soon. We also have a swap night on Tuesday which is usually good fun and are planning our little Christmas party.

I have also been planning on some fun things for next year with some help from the ladies. Helen has lots of fabulous ideas which I think everyone will love. I am also looking for ideas from others and will hopefully have a charity for next year picked out. Just a few things for everyone to look out for.

Thank you Annee and Natasha!

2011-10-17T23:26:00.000-07:00

Thank you to Annee who sent us this lovely card. She has promised to try and pay us a visit at some point so we will be looking forward to that.

This was all Rhona's work. She has been trying to use up all her odds and ends and has knitted up a storm. I didn't post pictures of everything there were that many. Check out our facebook page for the rest. Allison was extremely chuffed as she got a lovely, cabled cardigan out of it.

Helen also finished a pair of socks. I think these are for herself although she did also mention that she has promised a few pairs to other people.

I also have a wee hint of what to expect on our craft day. Helen is going to be teaching us to make these cards. If anyone wants to sign up please let Helen know so she has an idea of what to bring with her.

Helen also came up with a good idea for our next challenge. This one will be for the spring. Don't worry we will reveal all as soon as we have thought out the details.

National Knitting Day

2011-10-10T03:36:00.000-07:00

Our knitting group was in Hobbycraft in Glasgow again. We were supposed to be in the full weekend but unfortunately due to sickness our numbers dwindled a bit. Rhona, Margaret, Freya and Miriam went along on the Sunday though and had a blast. They had people asking them for advice on their knitting and a few were interested in coming along to the group.

Everyone took some projects to work on whilst they were there too.

We had a few finishes on Tuesday. The week before Elaine had given out a pattern for a kids hat. Margaret used some left over yarn to knit a few for the shoe box charity. She is now working on an aron cardigan

We had June back with us. She has spent the last few weeks babysitting. In that time she finished this lovely little robin. She has all the other kits to match him. She had planned on working on a rabbit kit but unfortunately the chart was missing from the pack.

Alison has got right into her quilting. She finished the front piece and Isobel was showing her how to pin the back on.

Congratulations Aileen

2011-10-03T22:56:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Aileen who had a little girl last week. Her name is Olivia Beth Thomson.

Margaret has been busy. She finished this lovely cardigan for herself just in time for the horrible weather setting in (we'll ignore the fact that we had a surprise week of sunshine). She also knitted this Jack O Lantern and monkey for her two daughters (luck me I'm one of them). She has since been knitting for the shoe box charity.

Isobel brought these mini stockings in to show us what we will be making for our Christmas themed craft day. She had dozens of them and are very cute. Ideal for holding treats on the Christmas tree.

Linda has also been busy. She knitted these scarves and hat for the shoe box charity. Incidentally, if you wish to make anything for the charity you have until the end of the month.

This weekend hobbycraft in Glasgow will be celebrating National knitting week again. Some of the ladies will be there on Saturday and Sunday from 11am-3pm so drop in and say hello. They would love to see you.

Baby News!

2011-09-06T22:23:00.000-07:00

Big congratulations to Annee. If you remember we had a baby shower for her a wee while ago. On Saturday she had a beautiful little girl named Natasha. Congratulations Annee!

Finish wise it was a fairly quiet night last Tuesday. I did get an email from Dawn who couldn't make it along. She sent me a photo of this gorgeous mobile she made for her friends little boy. How amazing does this look? I am actually jealous of this little boy. If I wasn't to old for mobiles I would want one!

Due to not having a car Donna wasn't able to make it along to Aileen's baby shower. She did come along the following week and brought with her this gorgeous granny square baby blanket. I've never seen a granny square blanket made with such chunky yarn. It really is so soft and cozy.

Lastly I also had an extra for Aileen. I had intended on giving these baby bootees on the night of the baby shower but didn't get them finished on time. Just meant Aileen got some extra pressies the following week.

Aileen's Baby Shower.

2011-08-29T22:42:00.000-07:00

It was Aileen's baby shower last week. Seems like the time has flown in as she is due in a few weeks. Mind you, you wouldn't know she was feeling a little tired as she looked amazing. Unaware that Aileen is a dentist Anthea, Jill and Grace got her some bonjella and a teething ring. It gave us all a laugh at the coincidence.

Joyce knitted Aileen one of her famous and much coveted blankets. The heart and edging is shaped with bobbles. Very effective and everyone loves them.

Magdalena is back from her weeks at home with the kids. She made Aileen a baby toy. Like Joyce's blanket these are famed through out the group and Aileen was delighted to receive one.

Isabel couldn't stay long as she had three grandkids to pack up for an early morning flight the next day but she did hand in a present. She knitted this lovely green jacket.

I decided not to go with the blanket this time and knitted Aileen a baby hat and socks set. Done in stripes as Aileen is known to love anything stripey.

Elaine expanded her crochet skills to make this beautiful blanket and pillow. It was her first time using this particular crochet stitch. Not that you would know it.

Helen knitted Aileen a lovely set of baby hats, each one different. My favourites are the ones with the pom poms. As you can see Aileen's favourite is the bonnet.

Margaret gave Aileen some much needed bibs and bootees. She also knitted a yellow and a cream hat and cardigan set.

Roberta knitted a sparkly jacket which Aileen can't wait to use at Christmas (unfortunately the photo's don't show up the sparkles). She also knitted an aran cardigan which will be perfect this winter.

June gave Aileen a baby snuggle and a book (June always makes sure she passes on a book). She also crocheted one of her famous blankets. We always love her granny square blankets. The colours are lovely.

At our craft day Linda made a draw string baby bag to put Aileen's gift in. The bag will come in handy and the fabric is perfect for a baby. She also gave her a rattle and knitted this lovely cardigan.

Alison knitted Aileen this lovely sleeping suit. It's done in stripey yarn which gives it the amazing effect. So unusual. I don't think any of us had seen a knitted version of this before.

Stephanie gave Aileen these lovely Winnie the Pooh pajamas and bib set. Extremely cute and will come in handy.

Caroline bought this lovely thumper sleep suit. So cute! She also has something she is in the middle of making but has been sitting exams just now so it's not quite finished.

Last but not least Isabel made one of her fantastic quilts. I love the fabric. If you can't see the photo the square are birds and little bird houses. Lovely colours too.

I think it's safe to say that Aileen had a nice time and was delighted with everything. Everyone else had just as much fun as Aileen. We always like to see what everyone has made and there is always something unusual among them.

Scarf Weather!

2011-08-25T22:15:00.000-07:00

If you remember a few months back we had a fantastic day of crafting. One of the things we learned to do was make Japanese folded bags. Alison took hers home and finished it off. I love the ribbon she has used. It really sets off the Christmas fabric and adds an extra sparkle. She spent Tuesday working on her bird cross stitch. She is also however, trying her hadn't at something else we learned that day. Japanese folded quilting. It's proving to be quite popular.

Elaine has also been busy working away on knitting scarves for her craft fairs. I don't know if you can see it in the photo but she added crystals and accents to the first two scarves. The scarves were already lovely without them but they now have a bit of glam.

We also had another knew member. We would like to welcome Rhona (yes, a second Rhona). She actually came along the week before just to get some information but came back this week and brought her knitting with her. She is knitting a jacket for her dog. The pattern is from a lovely book which the rest of the group admired.

On Tuesday we held a baby shower for Aileen who is expecting her first baby. She is due in three weeks. I got lots of great photo's and I will post them over the weekend.

First time cross stitcher

2011-08-21T08:11:00.000-07:00

One of our newer members, Freya, has been learning to cross stitch. She just finished this lovely cross stitch flower kit. She is thinking of framing it for her room. She is now working on a more difficult cross stitch kit and is loving it. A lot of our members who do cross stitch greatly admired her work.

We had another new member, Jill, who is also a cross stitcher. She just finished this lovely cross stitch from the Cath Kidston book. It's even backed up by some lovely Cath Kidston fabric.

Helen also had a few finishes. After learning how to do Japanese folded quilting she stitched the blue mat. I love the colours she used and I know there are a few members who are wanting to give it a go. She also made a Japanese folded bag but she experimented with some variegated thread and fancy stitches from her sewing machine. It was quite effective.

Anthea has not long taken up crochet but she has yet another finish. She was crocheting this lovely shrug only last week. She used a lovely purple and a variegated yarn to give it that effect. She is now working on some granny stripes.

Dawn has been at her card making again. She made this lovely card for Donna who just celebrated her first anniversary. The card is backed onto a CD to make it more sturdy plus it can also be used as a wall hanging. I did try to pinch it but Donna wouldn't let it out of her sight.

Elaine finished another granny square blanket using striping yarn. I really love the effect. She spent the evening adding fringe to a lovely scarf. She did finish it but wants to add some crystals to really set it off so no photo's yet.

Linda also had a couple of finishes. She was also working on a granny square blanket. Contrary to the photo it's actually more purple than blue. She also crocheted this lovely hat and scarf set. All of these are for the shoebox charity.

Just a reminder that we are still collecting for the shoebox charity if anyone wants to knit or make anything for it. Also empty shoe boxes would be much appreciated.

This Tuesday we are having another baby shower. This time it's for our Aileen who is expecting her first baby. We all love a good baby shower so we are very much looking forward to it.

More New Members!

2011-08-13T03:10:00.000-07:00

As you all know Margaret has been knitting lots of baby clothes for a friend. She decided that since there was some yarn left in each of the colours to use it up. She knitted these cute baby bootees and embellished them with buttons. She also managed to knit matching mitts.

Anthea is one of our newer members. She learned to crochet not that long ago and hasn't looked back since. She recently finished this lovely crochet hook holder. I love the colour and the button on the front just sets it off (handy too).

I forgot to post a couple of my own finishes last week so here they are. The first one is the triangular granny square shawl. Donna taught us this method whilst we were in Gartmore. I used cotton in two shades of purple. The second is a pair of socks (big surprise) also in purple.

We had some knew member again this week. We had Grace who likes to cross stitch. She is working on a lovely tapestry at the moment which she finds allows her to craft and chat at the same time. We also had Raquel and her daughter Miriam. Raquel was working on a lovely crochet hat. She learned to crochet from her grandmother who crocheted until she was 100 and had to stop only because of her eye sight. Miriam was learning to knit and she was knitting a scarf. Glad our little group is growing again.

We are also planning our next craft day. It will be in November and it will be Christmas themed. So far we have quite a few lessons planned so it should be good fun.

Five Minutes of Fame!

2011-08-07T12:07:00.000-07:00

Hobbycraft like to have examples of various crafts on display. I have always admired them and it's a good way of getting some inspiration. I did a double take when I was in there a few weeks ago though. They had a display of scrapbook pages and they featured our knitting group. I know you have already seen the photo's themselves but here they are if they were being put in a scrapbook.

We also had a couple of birthdays a few weeks ago. Our Roberta turned 66 (doesn't look a day over 21). Elaine baked and decorated this amazing cake. Sadly Elaine failed to tell us that it was her birthday too.

Margaret has been busy working away on baby clothes for a friend. She managed to finish quite a few more the past week. The baby isn't due for another few months and these cardigans will be perfect for the weather round about then.

Elaine has been crocheting away. She made another large granny square blanket. She used self striping yarn which had an interesting effect on the blanket.

Gartmore at Home the Final

2011-07-26T23:28:00.001-07:00

The last demonstration of the day was Helen showing us how to make Japanese folded bags. I don't know if you remember me posting some photo's of bags that Helen made a few weeks back. They are a fantastic way of making little bags to use for presents. That's if you can give them away.

I apologise that the photo's aren't too clear. Helen brought in some pre-cut triangles of fabric. You need two pieces and they must be equilateral triangles. You stitch the pieces together and then stitch down each of the corners. You then sew up the sides, add some ribbon and you have a little bag. It really is very effective and Helen was fantastic at showing us all how to do it.

You can see here that a few of the group had a turn. The sewing of the sides had to be done at home as we ran out of time but by then it was all pinned up and easy to finish.

These are bags that myself and Margaret made after Saturdays class. I think we will be seeing more of these over the next few weeks.

I think Saturday was a big hit and we are already planning on another for October. This time with a Christmas theme.

I just want to say a HUGE thank you to Carol, Isobel and Helen who all gave up their time to give these demonstrations. The amount of prep they put into it before hand alone would have been time consuming. We all appreciated it.

Also a thank you to the Glasgow Fort management who let us use the room on a Saturday.

Gartmore at Home Part 3

2011-07-25T23:21:00.000-07:00

Isobel was the one who suggested the idea of Gartmore at Home in the first place because there were so many of us interested in her sewing when we went to Gartmore. She kindly offered to teach us how to sew draw string bags and these lessons went on all day

Isobel had brought along fabric that was already cut and the edging stitched. All ready to be stitched into the bags. It was a big hit and I think just about everyone made one.

These bags come in handy for shoes when going on holiday. I know a few people were horrified at the suggestion. Far too pretty for shoes!

Gartmore at Home Part 2

2011-07-25T09:49:00.001-07:00

One of the demonstrations we had on Saturday was on Japanese Folded quilting. Carol is an expert on quilting in general and has taught classes and been interviewed in magazines. We all appreciated her giving us this demonstration and it was fantastic. First of all she showed us an example of one little square.

The squares are made using a circle folded round the square. Carol had a board with her to show us the different ways the square could be made up. This gives more opportunities for different patterns.

We then got to see some samples that Carol has put together in the past. It shows that there are lots of ways that these squares can be put together.

Even the backs come together to form a pattern which makes the quilt or hanging reversible.

Carol has used them to make bags too. Ideal for carrying your knitting around in. She did say that if you do make a bag make sure it's not for anything heavy.

The good thing about this form of quilting is that it's easier to carry. You are working on one small piece at a time. The only down side is that it uses a lot of fabric so Carol recommends you think about how you cut out you shapes using templates so as to get the most out of your fabric. She also said to hold onto your scraps as they may come in handy.

As I said it was very interesting and I think there are a number of us who are going to try this in the future. It seems more manageable and the end result is very effective.

Gartmore at Home Part1

2011-07-24T03:06:00.001-07:00

Saturday we had our Gartmore at home day and I think it's safe to say that it was a success. Much like Gartmore I am going to have to do this in parts. There was so much going on and I have over 30 photo's it would be a shame to bunch it all together. So I thought I would start with some finishes that people brought along.

Valerie came along for the day. It was lovely to see her as she has been recovering from a knee op. As always it hasn't stopped her from working away and she brought along this amazing wall hanging. She has stitched into the main panel which is a beautiful Japanese design. What stand out for me I think is that she has cut into the fabric used at the top and bottom. So effective.

Carol was also back and it was just as lovely to see her too. Especially lovely as she did one of our demos. The item photographed above belongs to Val but Carol stitched it. It's a Victorian thimble holder. Made with fabric, felt and card. We were all impressed.

Alison also had a finish. She knitted this lovely scarf. The yarn looks like a mini version of the pom pom yarn that was so popular last year. It's so soft. Plus Alison wanted to prove that she does knit.

Isobel was also teaching and she kindly made everyone taking part these lovely little pin cushions. They were a big hit. Each one even had some pins and safety pins which were needed for the class.

There is another reason why I wanted to post this in parts. I forgot to mention in the last one that we had another new member on Tuesday. Her name is Anthea and she is originally from South Africa. She is a scrapbooker and even teaches it but on Tuesday she was making little crochet hexagons for a blanket for her daughter. You can find her blog here.

Congratulations Sheena

2011-07-23T08:34:00.000-07:00

I know it was a couple of weeks ago but our Sheena got married. Her sister Aileen sent me some photo's so I though I would post a couple of them. She looks lovely (as does Aileen).

Roberta was busy the last few weeks. She's been doing a lot of crochet. She made both blankets which are lovely. I especially like the lemon and white. She also made the scarf using a pattern from Isobel. This is going to the shoe box charity.

Although Dawn wasn't there she did make this card a few weeks ago. The one week I forget my camera too. This is for Julia who used to come along to our knitting group.

Rhona has also been busy. She knitted these lovely shrugs. All done in cotton.

Last but not least Elaine also had a finish. She finished her first pair of socks. I have been teaching her on and off since Gartmore. To be fair she did most of it herself thanks to an earlier lesson from Ginnie. I was really just there to help out when she needed it. The heel and the toes she did all on her own.

Today we had a Gartmore at home day for everyone. It was to allow those who couldn't make it along to Gartmore to have a bit of fun. I will post more on it during the week but we have basically spend the day having lessons and chatting thanks to the lovely people at the Glasgow Fort who gave us use of the room.

Sheena - June Member of the Month

2011-07-11T08:13:00.001-07:00

1. Tell us a little about yourself.

I was born in Inverness. In 1999 I came to Glasgow as a Med student and graduated in 2005. I worked here for a few years before moving back home again. I then came back to Glasgow to work and that's when I started coming along to Stitch N Bitch with my sister Aileen.

2. Who taught you to knit/cross stitch.

My mum and gran taught us to knit at the age of 5. We had little plastic needles and would knit scarves. I then moved on to cross stitch. I used to be able to knit and purl.

3. What is your proudest finish?

The cross stitch I did for my sisters wedding. It was a pattern I got from Japan. I changed it though so that the characters looked like Aileen and her husband.

4. What is your biggest disaster?

My crochet square at Gartmore. I can't crochet.

5. What other crafts do you do?

I cross stitch, sometimes make cards and I made Jam as favours for my wedding. I do DIY but I'm not allowed to do much. I am allowed to paint walls with supervision and hold things.

6. List of favourites.

Favourite yarn - the 4 ply baby yarn that allowed me to knit the bootees.

Favourite designs - Chinese ladies, one day I will finish one.

Favourite shop - hobbycraft

Favourite colours - purples and blues

7. What would you like to achieve in the future?

I would like to be able to knit a baby jacket one day.

8. What do you like to watch or listen to whilst knitting or stitching?

I love films especially stupid, cheesy, B movies. I like Mega Piranha. Basically stupid horror films that never make it to the cinema. Vietnamese death worms is another one.

9. What advice would you give to beginners?

Beginner knitters come here! Also use youtube.

10. What's your favourite non-craft book?

Wuthering Heights.

Good Luck Sheena!

2011-06-30T12:55:00.001-07:00

Our Sheena is getting married next week. Congratulations Sheena! We celebrated by giving her some vouchers. We won't tell if she decides to spend it all on yarn, honest! Sheena is also our member of the month (yep, I know it's been a while but these are still going on). I will post the interview in a few days.

Since we are planning on a sewing class soon Helen brought examples of what she is going to teach. These are Japanese bags. Perfect for little gifts.

Donna's sister just got engaged. She asked Dawn to make a card for her and once again she out did herself. Donna might actually not want to part with it. I suggested giving a photo of the card instead and keeping the real thing.

Sheena also had a finish. These are bootees she has made for Aileen. This is Sheena's first attempt at knitting.

And we also have a finished sock by Elaine. I taught her to knit socks over the Gartmore weekend with some extra lessons over the last few weeks. As Ginnie gave her, her first lesson last year it was really just a reminder. Most of the sock she did herself. She's already halfway through the second one so I will soon be able to show you a finished pair.

We also had yet another new member. Liz'z friend, Joanne, came along. She was doing some embroidery.

Growing!

2011-06-22T22:59:00.000-07:00

We had two more baby finishes by Margaret this week. A friend in work has asked her to knit some baby clothes for her grandchild which is why she has been working on so many. This week she knitted two lovely baby cardigans with cute buttons. She got the patterns from one of our swap nights. She also knitted this lovely flower broach. Margaret is now working on another baby jacket.

Sheena also had a finish. She knitted a baby bootee. This is her first attempt at knitting. Well done Sheena for knitting something complicated on her first go. She is going to use finer yarn to knit them again so that it turns out in a smaller size.

Our little group is also growing. We had two more new members. First of all Rhona's youngest, Freya, came along as she wants to learn lots of crafts. On Tuesday she was learning to cross stitch. We also had Liz along who learned about the group through national knitting day. She is knitting a jacket.

Believe it or not I managed to make a list of what everyone was working on this week. Moira was knitting a baby blanket using snowflake yarn. Joyce was knitting a cute smock baby jacket. Rhona was working on a baby cardigan using self striping yarn. Caroline was knitting a purple shawl. Isobel was sewing up a baby cardigan that Alison had knitted. Alison was knitting a jumper. Stephanie was knitting a baby top. Aileen was working on a Mr Men alphabet cross stitch. June was crocheting a granny square blanket using self striping yarn. I was knitting socks as was Dawn who was learning to turn the heel.

Our Five Minutes of Fame!

2011-06-16T22:29:00.000-07:00

Just after Christmas I was contacted by a lady who writes for knitting magazine Knit Today. She asked if I would mind doing a little interview for our group. Of course I didn't mind and so answered some questions and sent in some photographs. That interview is now out in this months interview. I did photograph it but the lovely Alison scanned it into her computer which meant we can see it more clearly. Have a look and see who you can spot. The magazine only came out last weekend so it should still be in the shops.

Aileen finished her first crochet blanket. She used lovely self striping yarn for the centre. She then stitched some satin round the border. I love the little coloured corners. She is now working on a MR Men alphabet cross stitch design also for the baby's room.

Margaret finished this lovely yellow baby cardigan. The little buttons are bears which sets it off. She is now working on another baby cardigan for a friend.

Magdalena plans to make all the kids in her family a quilt. First up is Adam who is obsessed with the Teletubbies (he associates colour with the teletubbies). So Magdalena made this beautiful quilt for him. I love the jigsaw like pattern in the middle. She finished this just at the end of the night.

A big thank you to Hobbycraft at the Glasgow Fort. As a thank you for going along to the store on Saturday for National Knitting Day they sent us some goodies. I couldn't even begin to list what they sent but everyone went away with something. There was even lots of fabric which you can see us cutting up. Should come in handy when we get out sewing lesson from Isobel.

We had two new members along. Rhona found us through our blog. She has been looking for a knitting group to join for a while now. She is currently knitting little squares. She stitches them into blankets and then hands them into a local nursing home. June found us after coming along on Saturday (you can see Donna teaching her in the last post). She was continuing with her crochet lessons and doing a lovely job.

Also a big thank you to Annee. She sent us some sweets as a thank you for the baby shower. They were very much appreciated and we are glad she had a good time.

Knit in Public Day at Hobbycraft Glasgow Fort

2011-06-12T06:52:00.000-07:00

Knitty greeting to you today. I hope you are all well, and managed to enjoy Knit in Public day as much as we did. Unfortunately, our fearless leader Karen couldn't make it due to family commitments hence the reason why I (Dawn) am standing in to write the post and take the pics. Yes, I am in charge! (insert evil laugh here) so, I've decided to post a pic of our Karen who was sadly missed yesterday at the event.

The lovely Hobby Craft staff set us up just at the bottom of the stairs, there were quite a few of us (think they were surprised so many turned up)and we soon had commandeered all of the chairs in the whole shop. Helen and Elaine had brought some copies of our group poster, telling people a little about the group and where we could be found if they would like to join us. Helen was particularly enthused by this thought and proceeded to stalk (in the nicest possible way of course) anyone who showed even the slightest interest in our group, she got quite a few shoppers interested and kept the rest of us amused greatly with her idea's to put our leaflets in amongst the wool and various magazines and books in the knitting section.

A few of us brought along finished pieces to arrange on the table set up for us by the staff, we also added our group info, some knitting,craft and crochet magazines and Hobbycraft leaflets. It really was like a mini meeting of our group just in a different location with a few less members.

The General Manager of Hobby Craft, George was very pleased at how many of us took part in the Knit day, and said we would definitely have to do it again, so this may become a more regular occurence. George also took a few photo's to send to Hobby Craft head office, and told us of how much they like getting involved in local projects. They already have several schools involved in various craft projects and how well they are being received. We managed (twisted his arm more like!)to tempt George into trying a little knitting too.

Donna had a little impromtu crochet class, when a prospective new group member, June showed an interest in Donna's gorgeous granny squares. Here is Donna teaching June the basic beginning of granny goodness.

June did great and we are hoping to see her at the group on Tuesday evening.

So that was our Knit in Public day, and I think it went very well. We had a great time in Hobby Craft, the staff were wonderful, made us all feel welcome and gave us two HUGE bags of goodies which will no doubt bo oooed and ahhhed over on Tuesday.

I've really enjoyed documenting our day. Hopefully you've enjoyed reading it too.

With regards Dawn.x

National Knitting Day!

2011-06-09T22:59:00.001-07:00

It's National Knitting Day on Saturday. We don't normally do anything for this by Hobbycraft at the Fort asked if we would like to come in to do some demonstrations. We of course jumped at the chance. We will be there from 12-3pm so please come along and say hello. I won't be able to make it along but a number of others will and Dawn is going to be our photographer and blogger for the day. It should be good fun and it was nice of Hobbycraft to ask us along.

As well as a baby shower on Tuesday we had a few other things to photograph. First of all Donna brought along a blanket that her gran crocheted. Donna remember it when she was little although she doesn't know exactly how old it is. Love those colours and you would think it had been made yesterday.

We had a reason to celebrate too. Josephine is a crocheter and on Tuesday she finished her first knitting project. She knitted this lovely baby cardigan. Fingers crossed that she will keep going.

Margaret also had a finish. She finished this beautiful baby jacket she has been knitting for a friend. Love the yellow edging.

Elaine had been working on this sock monkey the last few weeks. This is for her daughter's birthday. It matches the lovely blanket Elaine made for her room last year.

Isabel also got to do her favourite - babysit. I took advantage of her storytelling to take this photo.

Annee's Baby Shower

2011-06-08T09:12:00.001-07:00

Warning: One photo heavy post coming up. That can only mean one thing - baby shower! Annee is the lovely lady who has helped us quite a bit. She even offered us use of the conference room at the Fort when we needed more space. She's a crafter herself and a talented photographer.

As always the baby shower had high attendance which is why there are so many photographs. First of all Annee received a pair of knitted baby trainers and a reversible blanket from myself.

Stephanie couldn't be there as she is on holiday. She did however knit a lovely baby cardigan and a baby bib. The first time most of us have seen a hand knitted baby bib. We can always trust Stephanie to come up with something unusual.

June did one of her famous baby crochet blankets which was much admired and she gave Annee some lovely baby books.

Magdalena made one of her lovely baby toys.

Helen knitted a beautiful jacket and hat. Ideal for when baby has his/her first social event.

Isabel gave one of her favourites - the hooded bath towel.

Margaret knitted two baby cardigans in cream and white with little socks to match.

Joyce knitted one of her famous heart blankets. We all love these blankets. The edges have bobbles which unfortunately you can't see in the photograph.

Roberta also wasn't there as she is away her holidays too. She knitted a lovely baby hat and an aran, two-toned jumper.

Caroline knitted this lovely red baby cardigan and matching hat. I love the colour.

Unfortunately you can't see the lovely cross stitch card that Aileen made. She also gave Annee these cute baby onesie.

Dawn gave a set of sweet little babygros. Will definitely come in handy.

These little baby boots and matching gloves were knitted by the talented Linda. I think she also gave some very useful bibs.

This cute little baby hat was knitted by Donna.

Elaine knitted one of her famous hot water bottle covers. She used snowflake yarn which is so unbelievably soft and added cute little motifs.

This stunning blanket was knitted by Alison. The striping yarn was very much admired by everyone.

Lastly, this quilt was made by the talented Isobel. This was the finish I couldn't post a photograph of after our weekend away. The back is fleece making it lovely and warm. Annee mentioned that her daughter may try to pinch it from the baby. Turns out it was baby's big brother she should have been worried about.

In case you can't tell we all love throwing a baby shower. It give us an excuse to spoil someone and make cute baby items. I think Annee had a good time too.

In case your interested our knitting group is going to be giving a demonstration between 12-3 at Hobbycraft in the Glasgow Fort. This is to celebrate National Knitting Day. I won't be there but a small group of lovely ladies will be. Also Dawn has offered to take some photographs for the day and she will be blogging about it here. Yep, you won't have to put up with me droning on for one whole post.

Home away from home.

2011-06-06T22:18:00.000-07:00

Before I start with this weeks update I thought I would show you something that Dawn brought along for us to see. Can you guess what this tool is used for?

The conference room we usually use is in use for the next few weeks. However, the Fort management kindly set us up in their reception area. It's actually quite nice. Easier to see what everyone is working on.

Having taken away some of Donna's patterns Helen decided to use up some Rowan tweed yarn she had lying around to make the granny square shawl. It turned out lovely and well done to Helen who did it without the help of Donna.

Magdalena has quite a large family and for a while now she has been thinking about the problem of organising her towels. She decided to personalise them so that everyone in her family would know which towels were theirs. She used cross stitch to add the initial of everyone on them. Fantastic idea.

As promised I was able to get a photo of Roberta's finished sugared Rose. Elaine had brought them along for her to take home.

There was even an impromptu knitting lesson. Roberta is helping Sheena here. Sheena is knitting baby bootee's since she is going to be an aunty soon.

I also continued with my sock knitting class. Elaine has now reached the heel and this is her progress so far. Love the colours she chose.

If you haven't guessed it already the tool Dawn brought along is for winding yarn and it's called a Niddy-nosty. It's more economical than the usual yarn winders if you don't buy that many hanks. Also handy for those balls of yarn that have a habit of unwinding and then tangling. If your mind went straight to the gutter then I can honestly say you aren't the only one. There was much laughter on Tuesday.

Gartmore. Final Part.

2011-06-06T09:46:00.000-07:00

As I didn't think we were going to get outside thanks to the weather I decided to take some photo's of inside. The beautiful stained glass windows and the ceiling are from the main foyer.

Just next to the room we were using we had a little patio which we took advantage of (it had a roof). These are the views we had from there.

We did eventually get outside although not for long. I think everyone took advantage of the brief periods of sunshine.

Unfortunately it was too muddy to go and visit the cows. We did get to see some of the many bunnies that run about on the grounds.

We all had a fantastic time and we are definitely going to go back again next year.

Gartmore Part 4

2011-06-02T01:46:00.000-07:00

This is the part where I show off the finishes everyone brought along or did that weekend. First of all we have Margaret who brought along her lovely red shawl.

I've been loaning Helen books recently. As a thank you she made me my very own book bag/cover. She used her sewing machine to try out different stitches. I love it! You have no idea how excited I was to now be a proud owner of one of these. If you look at the second photo you can see a great touch she added to it.

Donna brought along her half granny square shawl which she had finished. She used a self striping yarn which worked out perfectly. This was also used as a sample for her crochet class.

Helen finished a pair of socks in lovely shades of blue. These are for herself to replace some of her other knitted socks which are well used. She then started on another pair.

Over the last few weeks Donna has been working on baby items for friends. She spent part of her weekend sewing in ends and stitching seems in order to get them finished. This is a lovely baby hat she did.

Lovely white baby blanket.

The baby hat again but this time in white.

Baby blanket in self striping yarn.

You have already seen this but I thought I would show it again. This is the pouch Magdalena made from the practise crochet piece.

This is the card Donna made for Elaine after her quick lesson from Dawn.

There was one other finish but I can't show it as yet. I have one last post to put up and I promise that's it from Gartmore. The last one is just some scenery on the rare times the rain let us out.

Gartmore Part 3

2011-06-01T05:46:00.001-07:00

On Sunday, after a large breakfast, we eventually got together for another lesson. Donna was back again this year teaching us more crochet methods.

Some of us had requested to learn how to crochet hexagons. So Donna picked out one that used a very similar method to the granny square. She also had patterns for Pentagons, granny stripes and a ripple. She even had some samples for us. We were nicer to her this year and she even said we were better than some of her classes (Donna is a maths teacher). I have to admit we all very much enjoy Donna's lessons.

Patsy was the first up with a successful finish. She had a go at a Pentagon. Although I haven't got a photo she also successfully tried the ripple.

Helen decided to try the granny stripes. It really stands out with the yellow and blue.

Roberta also tried the granny stripes using the same yarn as Helen.

Alison tried the granny stripes pattern too. Hers was a little bit different. She used self striping sock yarn. This meant she didn't have to bother with colour changes to get a striking effect.

I attempted a very out of shape hexagon using 4 ply cotton. I then couldn't resist also trying the granny stripe. It seemed to be a favourite with everyone.

Magdalena had a go at the ripple which looked lovely in white, purple and green. She even stitched it into this lovely little pouch.

Helen then had a go at a different pattern and crocheted this lovely Pentagon.

Margaret tried the ripple too and plans on continuing with it. She's now crocheting a scarf in yellows and white.

I don't have any photo's but Dawn did a hexagon in purples. Also, Elaine did a ripple in purple and then a hexagon in a flecked yarn. It was definitely good fun and who's betting that we talk Donna into giving another class next year.

There were also some impromptu classes going on. Donna had got some coupons for a card making kit. She then enlisted the help of Dawn to show her how to do some of it. In the end Elaine commissioned her to make a card (you'll see it on the next post).

Isobel had offered to help anyone with their sewing projects if they brought them along. Almost like a sewing surgery. In the end she gave Helen and Donna a lesson on some quilting methods.

The rest of the Sunday was spent relaxing after a rather large lunch. Most of us continued with trying the crochet whilst one or two got on with projects they had brought with them. There were some knitting finishes over the weekend which I will show in the next (and last) Gartmore update.

Gartmore Part 2

2011-05-31T01:37:00.000-07:00

Apologies as this post has quite a lot of photographs. Believe it or not this is me being strict with how many I am posting. After dinner Elaine was going to give a class on making sugar flowers. Elaine is our very talented cake decorator. Before the class though you can see June taking advantage of the light coming through those big windows

It was also time for Jan's dinner.

Elaine's friend had also come along for the class.

These are an example of some of the flowers Elaine has made. All out of sugar. The thistle in the middle was from the cake she made from our first challenge.
.

Elaine starts by showing us some of the items she uses. She had already prepared the wire with buds for the stem and centre of the flowers.

She uses icing sugar to stop the icing from sticking to the perspex.

After cutting out the flower shape she uses a sponge and roles it round the edges to make the smoother.

This is the first one attached to the bud.

After building up layers of the flower it should look like this.

For the carnation Elaine cuts out three different sizes of the same shape. You don't need to smooth the edges of this one.

When the layers have been attached the carnation should look like this.

Once the sugar glue (also edible) dries Elaine then adds some colour.

Unfortunately my camera didn't pick up the colour but this is what it should look like when finished.

Alison was the first to go up and have a go. She is currently smoothing the edges of the first flower shape.

Patsy was next. Here she is having cut out the first flower shape.

Roberta was the only other brave soul to have a go. Here she is adding some sugar glue.

Alison proudly showing off her finished rose. You wouldn't know this was her first attempt. I'm afraid that I didn't get finished photo's of the others. Hopefully I will be able to when Elaine drops them off to them tonight.

The rest of the evening was spent knitting and chatting with another tea break in between. It wasn't long before some of us trooped off to bed although I think some stayed chatting until 1am.

Next post will be about Sunday and lessons from the lovely Donna.

Gartmore Part 1

2011-05-30T05:55:00.001-07:00

Our weekend away to Gartmore has sadly been and gone. We did however, have lots of fun and there are plans for a third year. I don't have quite as many photo's as last year but not far off it. So I am going to have to do this in parts which I will post over the course of the week. As you can see from the sign above we got a friendly welcome to Gartmore.

Helen, Margaret and I were the first to arrive. We quickly dropped our bags off to our rooms. We then settled in the foyer with coffee and biscuits while we waited for everyone to arrive.

It didn't take long for us to make use of the space. In fact we had a room next door to ours with a large table for us to spread out any big projects we were working on. Roberta took advantage of it to lay out a crochet blanket she has been working on. She is attaching granny squares as a border to make it larger.

Isobels goal was to make a quilt in a weekend. She used the large table to set out her cutting matt and prepare the material she was using. The lovely lady helping her is Patsy. She came along as Ally sadly took ill and couldn't come. Patsy is a knitter too and, fingers crossed, will be able to come along to the group soon.

Izzy's sewing machine was set up in the main room which allowed her too chat whilst working away (also allowed us to do our nosy as she worked away).

The rest of us settled on the comfy couches and worked away on our projects. Donna was finishing off some baby presents. Patsy was knitting a jumper but she was using two different patterns. Cleverly putting together the bits she liked from each. Roberta was working on another crochet blanket. Alison was working on her bird cross stitch. Helen was knitting a pair of socks for herself (and quite rightly too). Margaret was knitting a baby jumper for a friend. Magdalena was knitting a lovely jumper for herself. Dawn (who is there somewhere, honest) was knitting beautiful baby bootees. Lastly, I was knitting a blanket for myself.

Oh, and baby Jan was there to keep us all right. Here he is making sure his mum's knitting meets his approval. He kept us all entertained through out the weekend.

After lunch I started my sock knitting class. Dawn wanted to learn to knit cuff down adult socks. Elaine also wanted to learn and so I offered it as a class. Dawn has been taught toe up socks and Elaine learned to knit baby socks at last years weekend so this was really just a refresher. I don't have any pictures of finishes as it will take more than a few hours to teach but I promise to take photo's when they are finished.

During the lesson Dawn showed us a unique way of storing the extra needle until needed. Donna also joined the class when she needed help with her first pair of patterned socks. I enjoyed taking the class and hope Dawn and Elaine enjoyed it too.

After a busy day we were spoiled with a large dinner. By this point June had, thankfully, been able to join us. June had brought along a few animal cross stitch projects to work on. She spent the hour before dinner sorting the threads a teddy bear kit.

After our lovely dinner we had another class which I'll update with in the next post.

So excited!

2011-05-25T10:47:00.001-07:00

The next update and it's only Wednesday! I know, occasionally I just like to throw you a little. I actually only have one finish to show you. This scarf was knitted by Margaret. She used up some leftover wool she had and has donated it to the shoebox charity.

We are all pretty excited about this weekend away. There will be three classes. I will be teaching a sock class. Donna will be teaching us how to crochet hexagons and Elaine will be teaching sugar flowers. I'm looking forward to these classes. Lets hope the rain stops for the weekend.

I don't know if you noticed but we have a new addition to our sidebar. I have added links to other craft blogs. Basically if any of our members have their own blog I will link it there. So far we have two linked and the belong to Dawn and Monika. Let me know if any of you have one to add to the list!

Two Weeks In One!

2011-05-24T05:50:00.000-07:00

Apologies for the delay. Had some problems with blogger and then when that was fixed my trusty laptop decided to play up. Not to worry, it's all fixed now and I can finally upload everyones finishes from the last two weeks. Big congrats to Helen who finished her first quilt. It truly looks amazing! After a few lessons on how to use her sewing machine she played about with different stitching methods. The end result is amazing. She did something similar with the quilted book cover she made as a birthday present. She used variegated thread for that one.

Dawn made this amazing card for the Glasgow Fort team from ourselves. It was to say a big thank you for our birthday vouchers. She's outdone herself I think.

Josephine is back and her exams are all finished. She's been getting some help from Dawn with a crochet blanket. Meanwhile she finished this lovely baby set also in crochet.

I have to confess I have noticed Elaine and Linda working on these the last few weeks and have been wondering what they are doing. Their work recently moved office and so they made little name hangings for it. I know the photograph doesn't show but the lettering is done in cross stitch.

Last but not least we have some scarves for the shoe box charity. Roberta made another one using the fluffy black yarn. The others were by Margaret who took the opportunity to use up some yarn she had lying around.

More excitingly we have Gartmore this weekend! Prepare for lots of photo's! There are going to be three classes this time rather than two. There are also a few people coming along who couldn't make it last time. I think it's a safe bet that we are all looking forward to it!

Knitted Metal!

2011-05-10T05:44:00.000-07:00

Yes, believe it or not his bracelet was knitted using wire and beads. Caroline bought the kit a few weeks ago and we have all been watching as she has worked on it. It look fantastic and it doesn't feel at all scratchy when wearing it. Caroline is now working on a lace poncho - also in purple.

Stephanie knitted up this lovely baby set. Sadly this will be going in her box with all of her other finished items as she had no plans as to who she was knitting it for.

Roberta also had a couple of finishes which she gave to the shoebox charity. The first is a scarf which is amazingly soft. She knitted it using yarn she got at last weeks swap. The second is a baby jumper which was originally intended for her grand daughter. It's going to be too big which is why she gave it to the charity.

As you all know the Fort were lovely and gave us vouchers. After lots of suggestions as to what to do with them we are going to raffle them off amongst the group. It's just 50p for a strip and then that money raised is going to this years charity which is the Shoebox charity. I will do the draw on the 31st May that way everyone has time to buy tickets if they want them.

We Are Three!

2011-05-02T12:51:00.001-07:00

A little short post this time as there were no knitting finishes to photograph. We did however, celebrate running for three years. We had a swap night. The above photo only shows some of what was brought along. Just about everyone went away with something. Alison even picked up some yarn and knitting patterns of some lovely tops. Roberta got some very unusual yarn that she's knitting up as a scarf. I don't really know how to describe it other than it was fluffy. Hopefully we will get a photo when she is finished. Both myself and Donna baked and not much was left over of the goodies or the baking.

We did receive some Hobbycraft vouchers to celebrate from the lovely management team at the Glasgow Fort. We were all moved by it, so nice of them.

Not all of the celebrating is done as we still have Gartmore to look forward to at the end of this month. Not long now!

Something new!

2011-04-26T03:57:00.000-07:00

Caroline is (reluctantly) showing off her new jacket. It was published in one of the magazines and Caroline instantly fell in love with it. Of course it had to be purple. It was knitted by Alison who did an amazing job.

Dawn finished crocheting this lovely, rainbow baby blanket. I love all the different colours. Not sure I would have loved sewing in all the ends as much but it looks amazing.

Moira finished her can can scarf. It looks lovely. I am sure those colours are brighter than the photograph makes them out to be.

Isobel also had a finished. She knitted this beautiful cardigan for a friends grand daughter.

Caroline was working on something a little but different. Knitted Jewellery (in purple). It's knitted with wire and beads. Looks pretty effective and doesn't scratch the skin as you would expect wire to. Can't wait to see it finished.

Tonight our group will be celebrating the fact that we have been running for three years. Like last year we are having a swap night and I will be bringing along some of my cookies.

Spring Challenge '11

2011-04-15T23:46:00.001-07:00

I am finally posting about our challenge. Warning, this one is picture heavy. This years spring challenge was called "All About Me" which was inspired by Dawn's crafting resolution to knit for herself for a change. Participants had to make something that said something about them, was something that was just for themselves or something they had always wanted to try. There were two categories - adapted from a pattern and original. These Hexagon socks were knitted by myself. This year I decided to challenge myself to knitting a pair of socks every month. Those socks would be for myself. For the challenge I decided to chose my April socks. I picked the Hexagon pattern as it was something I had long wanted to try but hadn't quite got the nerve to. Definitely challenged my sock knitting skill. I used Riga sock yarn.

Margaret picked this pattern from a cross stitch magazine. Next to "All our Yesterdays" the "Country Companions" are her favourite. This one says something about her because she loves the flowers in her garden. She used 14 count Aida and anchor threads.

Another entry from Margaret. She has knitted this piece before but she had always wanted to knit it with the wool the pattern suggested. She chose pink because she liked the colour. It was knitted with brushed DK. The buttons and the beads are pearl.

These bugs were knitted by Suzanna and are part of a set of four (these particular two are mummy and daddy bug). This is Suzanna's second knitting project after finishing her scarf and the first one she has done following a pattern. She used a knitting kit from Hobbycraft.

Linda made this needle roll as she wanted to make something for herself and something she could use every Tuesday when she came to the group. It is very much her as she likes to be organised. She used cotton, wadding and her sewing machine.

Helen created this scrapbook of her month long visit to Australia. It was a holiday of a life time and she wanted something to remember from it. She used scrapbook materials and of course her photographs.

Elaine made these edible flowers. This is her as she is always baking and looking for something new to do - a right challenge. She used a glass case, lace paper, lollipop sticks, cookies, fondant, food colouring, edible glitter and oasis.

Isobel quilted this knitting back because she is always making things for someone else - time to make something for herself! She used cotton, batting and her sewing machine.

Caroline knitted this hot water bottle cover. It is made for her as she is cold in the wither. It will hopefully bring the summer sun feeling when it's cold, dark and wet.....or even in July. Those who know Caroline will understand why the elements in the picture represent her. She used snowflake and DK yarn, ribbon, beads and buttons.

Stephanie knitted these cakes. She did this just for fun and everyone in the group knows that is definitely her. She used yarn, beads, ribbons, bows and stuffing.

This shawl was knitted by Donna. She spent a lot of time before Christmas making gifts for others. In the New Year she decided 2011 was the year of 'me'. More knitted/crocheted gifts for myself. She started early in the New Year and finished it in a relatively short time. She now wears it regularly. She used drops of Alpaca and knitted with with fab new needles she treated herself with. The pattern was found on ravelry called "Holden Shawlette".

All our entries together.

Our lovely judges Alison and Roberta who volunteered (were bribed with wine) to make the difficult decisions.

First winner chosen was Suzanna who won in the junior category for her lovely knitted bugs.

In the adapted category Stephanie won for her yummy looking knitted cakes.

In the original category Linda won for her amazing needle roll (which also has a place for sewing needles and knitting patterns).

Last but not least our runner up was Caroline for her summer-like hot water bottle.

Well done everyone and well done to our judges who had the daunting task of choosing. Glad it wasn't me.

Busy Night

2011-04-13T08:26:00.000-07:00

Tuesday was the night of our Spring challenge so there was lots going on. Whilst I do have lots of photo's of finishes they are all related to the challenge. I'll post them all separately. Meanwhile June had brought an unusual gadget. It's used to help find needles. As you can see the end is magnetic but it also has a light to help you see. Handy for your bag as it also collapses down.

Remember Margaret helped out Suzanna last week? To say thank you she made Margaret this lovely picture. Just had to take a photo of it.

We also had more charity contributions. Helen decided to make up her own box for the shoe box charity. She knitted the hat and scarf then filled it up with lots of goodies. You can do this or just hand in items separately. Helen quite enjoyed doing it this way. If you do want to fill out a box remember there are a few things that have to be in there like toothpaste and a toothbrush. If you need a full list just ask.

I promise to post the challenge photo's soon. I think everyone had fun. Now just need to think up a theme for the autumn challenge.

Helping Out!

2011-04-08T14:04:00.000-07:00

Allison is another member who sends her knitted finishes on before we can photograph them. She finished a few things up on Tuesday night so of course I wasn't going to let the opportunity pass by. She knitted this lovely baby set. The hat is done in baby crofter yarn. She wasn't sure about it for a whole cardigan and so then decided to use it as edging. It's really effective. This meant she had enough left over to knit this cute baby beret.

Dawn also had a finish along and this is also for a baby. She has been crocheting this beautiful baby blanket. It's done in Paton's Smoothie which is a lovely striping yarn. The colours are amazing and are set off by the white edging.

Helen has made some more quilted book covers. This time for Elaine who wants to give them to her daughter for her holiday. These covers are made to fit larger sized books. The choice of fabric is lovely. Helen is thinking about adding pockets inside so they can hold more than just books.

The lovely Val is always on call to help fellow quilters. Last week it was Helen and this week it was Magdalena. Magda is making a quilt for her sister. The colours and choice of fabric are amazing!

Whilst Magdalena was busy getting help for her quilt, daughter Suzanna also needed help. Margaret stepped in and helped her to cast off. Suzanna is making something for our challenge next week.

Like her mum, Suzanna is a lady of many talents. On Saturday she had a dancing competition and won all these medals. It was her birthday too and was heading to hobbycraft to pick up some goodies with her birthday money (we are a good influence) ;). Happy Birthday Suzanna!

This coming Tuesday is our challenge night. The theme is 'Me'. I have heard a few hints of what people are planning. Can't wait to see everyone's projects.

CanCan

2011-04-04T07:51:00.001-07:00

The cancan scarf is still proving to be a firm favourite. Margaret has finished two. The red one is for herself and the purple she is putting away as a present for her youngest daughter. She has also been knitting lots of baby clothes for a friend in work. Roberta also had the cancan out. She was working on a solid red scarf.

Remember you only have a few weeks to do your challenge piece. Those who don't have an entry may be roped into judging (not and easy job). There are two prizes of Hobbycraft vouchers (£25) up for grabs so it's always worth taking part. Also have some extra vouchers (not hobbycraft) as a runner up prize which was donated by Helen.

Aileen - March MOTM

2011-04-03T04:59:00.000-07:00

1. Tell us about yourself. I am 26 and a dentist. I have been married 8 months and we are expecting our first baby in September. I like to travel and holidays but I think those days are over now.

2. How did you learn to cross stitch? I was given starter kits in primary school for Christmas and Birthdays. Mum did cross stitch and so I started on kids kits and worked my way up. I just learned to crochet on the Gartmore weekend. 3. What is your proudest finish? My dolphins as it took me seven years to finish. I finished just before I started coming along here.

4. What is your biggest disaster? Normally I manage to cover mistakes. When I run out of colours I tend to substitute it. With the dolphins I ran out of one shade of blue and I just used one of the others. 5. What other crafts do you do? I make cards at Christmas time. My mum does a lot of card making professionally. She has her own business so sends me kits. I also like scrapbooking.

6. List of favourites. yarn - I like stripey yarn. I love anything stripey. designs - Rennie Macintosh. I like patterns rather than pictures of teddies and kittens. shop - hobbycraft online store - I tend to search for specific thing rather than stick to certain stores. colours - mixture of blue, purple and turquoise. craft book - "yeah, I made it myself". It's good for clothes and bags. 7. What would you like to achieve? I would like to finish my baby blanket. I would also like to do more crochet as I find it quick and easy. I would like to do more for the nursery and baby.

8. What do you like to watch or listen to whilst crafting? I like relocation, place in the sun, escape to the country and dinner date. I like any programme with houses. 9. What advice would you give beginners? Keep it simple. Chose a patter or yarn you are excited about. You are more likely to finish than give up half way through.

10. What non craft books do you like? I have started reading a lot of crime thrillers. CSI type autopsy books. It takes your mind off the excitement of having a baby.

Babies!

2011-03-25T04:50:00.000-07:00

Our Val has created a quilting monster. Having taught Helen how to quilt a table runner she is now onto her first quilt. This is Helen and Val pinning it.

Alison had suggested using light up knitting needles to help with dark yarn. We were all fascinated by it so she brought in her own set to show us. You can get them online here.

Stephanie finished this lovely baby cardigan with matching hat, mitts and booties. The white and silver ribbon really sets it off. She is working on another set.

Isobel had a finish on Tuesday. She finished knitting up a cardigan for her partner. She said it had been a while since she had knitted him anything. He picked out the colour himself. It really does look cosy and Isobel is looking forward to pinching it.

How many times have I mentioned our speedy knitter Joyce and how many finishes have I actually been able to show? I could probably count those finishes on one hand as she usually has them sent away and onto something else before the following week. This time we were in luck She brought along some baby cardigans and jumpers that needed buttons sewn on. They were being sent away the next day so I too the chance to photograph them whilst I could. I love them all but my favourite is the waistcoat.

As you all now know Aileen and her husband are expecting their first baby. This means that we get to hold a baby shower. Having checked dates I can now let you know that it will take place on Tuesday 2nd August. Aileen is also this months MOTM so look out for her interview over the next few days.

We also have another baby shower. Annee who helps us out at the fort is also expecting and we are having a baby shower for her on the 7th June.

Congratulations Annee and Aileen.

A Finish After All!

2011-03-22T04:54:00.000-07:00

I have a finish to show you after all. Caroline emailed me the finished photo of her doll during the week. She did have her with her on Tuesday but sadly I wasn't there and the doll is now off to her new home with baby Molly. She is lovely!

Congratulations!

2011-03-16T03:01:00.001-07:00

I'm afraid there is no updates on everyone's projects this week. I didn't make it along last night. However, I did hear that some fantastic news was announced. Aileen and her husband are expecting their first baby in September! Congratulations Aileen!

Teaching!

2011-03-13T09:58:00.000-07:00

Only one finish to show on Tuesday. Margaret knitted this sweet baby cardigan for a friend in work. I love the cables. She finished this on the night and went straight onto another baby cardigan.

Helen also finished another book cover using the same material as the first one. She made this one at the request of Stephanie and has more to make for Elaine. Unsurprisingly her book covers are proving popular.

There was a lot of teaching going on. All of which was done by Isobel. She taught Elaine and Linda how to crochet hats. In the photo above she is teaching Isabel to crochet little squares. Isabel is working on a blanket and trying to make each square different. I did try to get more photo's of all the lessons going on but Isobel caught me.

In regards to Isabel's crochet blanket she has a request. If you have any unwanted 4ply yarn (doesn't have to be huge amounts as the squares are only little) she will gladly take them off your hands.

Another big thanks to the Glasgow Fort team who gave us bags of boxes for our charity.

Scarf Addiction!

2011-03-03T03:31:00.000-08:00

A little apt that I am posting this today since it is world book day. Like a lot of group members Helen is an avid reader. She has also very much taken to quilting. Whilst looking through a quilting book she saw how she could put both together. So she quilted herself a lovely book cover/bag. It's such a fantastic idea. Keeps the book safe and allows you to carry it about if you have no room in your bag. During the evening she was back to knitting socks for herself.

Sheena finished the scarf she was knitting using the can can yarn. In fact, like Roberta, she got two out of it. One for herself and one for her sister Aileen (who looks delighted with her present). Sheena is now working on another in the same colours for mothers day.

Isobel liked the style of the cancan and wondered if she could produce a similar effect with crochet and generic yarn. As you can see she produced this lovely scarf. She also crocheted the matching hat which she is using to teach Elaine how to crochet hats. She spent much of the evening teaching.

We also had more contributions for the shoebox appeal. Isobel bought in a bunch of goodies including a lovely little soft toy which will be loved by a little girl. If anyone would like to donate non hand made items they can do so. The only limit is on food. No chocolate and sell by dates must be well into 2012. Every box must have a toothbrush and toothpaste so anything like that would be more than welcome. I also knitted a couple of things. A scarf using free yarn I got from one of the magazines and a cowl.

What else were we working on? Alison was knitting a lovely purple jacket for Caroline. Caroline was working on her doll. Aileen was crocheting a through using striping yarn. June was doing some cross stitch. Stephanie was working on some baby clothes. Roberta was working on a crochet blanket. Joyce was working on a baby blanket. I know I have missed a few people out. Apologies, I should really write everything down.

Oh, and before I forget, a huge big thank you to Barratts shoes and the Glasgow Fort team for the shoe boxes. They will be a great start to Linda's shoebox appeal.

First of the Shoebox Appeal

2011-02-24T03:49:00.001-08:00

We had our first contributions to our shoebox appeal charity this week. Both were by Isobel. Isobel is also a quilter and she used up some of her stash to make this lovely blanket and pillow set. Any little girl would love it. She also used some lovely fabric to make a little bag. She also very kindly made one for Suzanna.

Val has also been busy with her quilting. For the Glasgow Gathering she took part in a challenge to design her own piece of quilting. It had to be A2 in size. The circular pattern is a quilt block called New York Beauty. She did two of these and then designed the quilting in between. Truly looks stunning and I hope it's not the last she will design.

Elaine finished her large granny square blanket. She originally started with yarn she picked up at one of our swap nights. We think it may have come from Magdalena as the ball band was in Polish. There was only enough to go so far so she used black and white to edge the centre square. Looks very effective and is very cosy. She promised to make another for her niece.

Scarves!

2011-02-19T11:11:00.001-08:00

How lovely is this shawl? This was knitted by Donna. She has taken up Dawn's mantle and is making this year a year of me. Quite right too as, like most members, Donna is usually knitting for someone else. So this beautiful shawl is for herself. In saying that she is now working on some baby things as a few friends are expecting.

Roberta finished her scarf using the can can yarn. She actually managed to get two out of the one ball. The other one was gifted to Joyce. It really is lovely all knitted up. She also passed on the bug as Margaret and Magdalena were working on their one can can scarves in different colours. Roberta is now working on a lovely crochet through.

A few weeks back I posted a link to a website you could buy the cancan yarn from. Caroline had a looksie and ended up buying a Katia yarn. It's knitted in a similar way to the can can but this one has large loops. I think she may have even offered to knit another for Alison. If you are knitting with this be careful as Caroline says the stitches can fall off either end of the needle and picking them back up again is a nightmare. She is now working on another doll for a friend.

Linda also had a finish for us. She knitted this lovely Cowl. Not sure what the yarn is but it's extremely soft. She is now working on a scarf for the shoebox appeal.

I even have a couple of finishes to show. I crocheted a blanket for my sister (blaming Donna for my granny square addiction) and a pair of socks also for my sister. I spent the evening working on another pair of socks for my mum.

Joyce was working on some lovely baby clothes in blues. I also spied some more baby yarn on the table for when she is finished with those. Isabel was learning to crochet different squares for a blanket with the help of Isobel (gets confusing I know). June was also working on a granny square blanket. This one for a baby. Isobel and Alison were both working on lovely knitted jackets. Dawn started a Cowl to match her mitts and hat. Elaine was working on a scarf for the shoebox appeal.

Speaking of the appeal. Big thanks to Annee from the Glasgow Fort and of course Barratts shoes who are helping us with unwanted shoe boxes.

Shoebox Appeal

2011-02-14T12:12:00.001-08:00

Stephanie knitted this lovely baby hat in the style of a cupcake. Very cute and has become a favourite of the group.

Linda finished stitching this lovely sock monkey. She had to monkeynap him from the person she made it for so we could get a photo. I love the addition of the bug.

I can also now reveal the charity we will be working towards this year. As most of you know Linda participates in the shoebox appeal every year with the help of Elaine. Since it's a charity that they both work hard towards I thought it would be nice for us to contribute to. The Shoebox appeal is run by Blythswood and is a Christian organisation. It collects these boxes filled with goodies and sends them out to Eastern Europe and Asia. The shoe boxes are made up for different age groups and Linda kindly brought a long a couple for us to see. One for a boy, a girl and an adult. Each box must contain a hat, scarf, gloves, toothpaste and toothbrush. It doesn't seem like a lot but the people who receive them greatly appreciate it. The box is then filled up with other goodies. The only thing that can't go in is chocolate.

So if you have an shoe boxes please pass them on to Linda. Also if you want to knit, crochet or sew anything for the boxes they will be greatly appreciated. I know Isobel has offered and sew some bags for them. Normally we would contribute until July. However, if you want to keep going after that I know Linda will collect until September.

June - January MOTM

2011-02-11T06:22:00.001-08:00

1. Tell us about yourself.

I am an aged granny an mother to many, many pets. I trained as a sick Children's nurse and a midwife. I was a midwife for about nine years.

2. Where did you learn to knit?

I don't really remember. I think my grandmother taught me to knit. Generally I would knit for my parents. I also learned dressmaking in school. When I was ten my first project was a dirndle skirt. It was green with ricrac braid.

3. What has been your biggest success?

My large cross stitch which I worked on on and off. I originally bought the kid in Copenhagen. I did a bit in Germany and then finished it here in Scotland. It's about 34 years old now.

4. What was your biggest disaster?

I made a beautiful, jade evening coat. It was a lovely design and lovely fabric. When cutting though I completely forgot about the nap of the fabric (direction of the weave). I didn't have the heart to redo it.
5. What other crafts do you do?

I crochet - I have done two large afghans. I also knit, cross stitch. I can do crewel embroidery but it irritates me. I can tat. With a parrot and a grand daughter though it makes it hard to concentrate. I once tatted little rosettes for my friends wedding.

6. List of favourites;

Favourite product - I like heritage (cross stitch).

Favourite designs - I love dormice, animals, cottages and country designs

Favourite designers - John Clayton, Valerie Preifer

Favourite stores - John Lewis, Hobbycraft and Macaree's. The have a wall of bookshelves filled with wool, books and needles.

Favourite colours - greens, jades, blue and teal.

7. What is your future goal?

To get all my WIP finished. I have an alphabet sampler aside for Amilee when she is a bit older. It has lovely mice on it.

8. What do you like to listen to/watch whilst crafting.

I love Classic FM. I am heavily into classical music. I also have a parrot on my shoulder usually.

9. What advice do you have for beginners?

With cross stitch it's always best to start on something small.

10. What non-craft books do you like?

I like crime mainly. I enjoy Jeffery Deaver, Tess Gerritson and Patricia Cornwall.

Pretty Pinks and Purples

2011-02-06T12:11:00.000-08:00

Apologies for the absence. I have no excuse really. I do have some lovely finishes to show you and all in the same colour range (I sometimes think everyone in the group coordinates their colours when I'm not looking). First of all Margaret had a finish the previous week. She finished her lovely throw. She started work on this back in Gartmore although she has been working on other things in between. She is now working on a lovely mint summer top.

Val also had a finish to show us. This beautiful quilted square is called a Mariners compass and was done using quilting and applique. Every time I see one of Val's finished pieces I think it is my new favourite and this makes no exception. Val is now back to working on her Japanese quilting.

Helen finished one of her famous scarves using Sirdar's Click (a yarn loved by a number of the knitting group). She has cashed in one of her vouchers and is currently working on a crochet baby blanket as taught by Donna.

I also interviewed June and took some photo's of some of her previous work. The one thing I love about these interviews is discovering some lovely finished work none of us has seen before. There was a lot of ooing and aaing on Tuesday.

I also have details from Linda about this years charity so look out for that.

CanCan Yarn!

2011-01-22T13:34:00.000-08:00

Apologies to Caroline who thought I had given her homework (ie get the doll done so we can see it, lol). She did finish her though and she is lovely! I love the colours she picked out. I have to admit that I prefer the purples to the bold primary colours the pattern suggested. I especially like the use of the self striping yarn. Makes her more original. Having finished her Caroline is now back to her latch hook cushion.

Isobel finished this lovely cardigan on Tuesday night. I have a soft spot for cables and love it on this cardigan. Again, also love the self striping yarn. I could be wrong but I think Isobel mentioned moving on to a cardigan for herself next.

Dawn finished her lovely mittens. All done in crochet. She is now working on the hat and scarf to match. Love the colours and the yarn is unbelievably soft.

Dawn's mum, Moira, but some of that yarn I was talking about last week. With the help of Magdalena she worked out how to actually knit with it and says it's easier than you think. I took some photo's in the hopes that it would help others. As you can see it knits up quite nicely. I have a feeling a few others in the group will be picking up this yarn.

I can now reveal our challenge which will take place on the 12th April. The challenge theme is "All About Me". I took inspiration from another member. Everyone mainly knits or crafts for other people. I thought this would be a good opportunity for you to do something for yourself. The challenge is to make something that says something about you. It can be something you have been meaning to do but gifting to others have always got in the way. Or maybe to learn to do something you have always wanted to do. There are two categories as always original design or adapted design and one from each will receive £25 vouchers from Hobbycraft. Helen has also give some other vouchers as an extra prize so there will be a third runner up.

I can also give more information about our Gartmore weekend. It's the last weekend in May. Deposits have to be in by the 1st Feb. If you haven't received an info sheet just asked. We are hoping to have some classes again. Donna has offered another crochet class. Isobel has offered to do a sewing clinic. Bring any sewing project along you are having difficulty with and she is happy to help. Dawn has requested a sock class. If anyone has anything they would like to teach or learn just let me know and we will see what we can do.

June is back with us and feeling lots better which means next week I get to interview her for member of the month.

Exciting Times!

2011-01-14T12:06:00.000-08:00

Linda has more finishes. She finished crocheting these lovely sparkly scarves for the shoe box charity. On the night she was finishing another scarf which she had forgotten about. This time for herself and using pom pom yarn.

That was our only finish but I did photograph someones newly acquired stash. We all admired and gazed in wonder at Roberta's new yarn. It's called Ondas and is by Katia (the same people who do the amazing pom pom yarn. You knit with the edging and it creates a ruffle effect. One ball is enough for a scarf. Roberta picked it up in Hobbycraft but you can also by it from Modern Knitting along with instructions on how to use it. I have ordered from Modern knitting before and highly recommend them. Can't wait to see Roberta's finished scarf.

We also have some good news. I am in the process of booking our weekend away to Gartmore for the last weekend in May. We all had good fun last time and so look forward to it again. Hopefully a few more members will be able to go along.

On Tuesday I will announce the next challenge. I can tell you just now that it will take place on the 12th April. I also have the autumn theme picked out but I will annoy everyone with that nearer the time ;).

Lastly I was interviewed about our group for Knit Today. The interview will appear in issue 61. Issue 56 is out on the 25th January so I am guessing 61 will be around June. It's something to look out for.

We're Back!

2011-01-08T03:32:00.000-08:00

It was good to be back on Tuesday and although it was a quiet night it was still good to catch up and see what everyone was working on. Helen proudly showed us her finished table runner. She cashed in one of the vouchers we made her for her retirement and Val taught her quilting. She is very proud of it and quite right too. Unfortunately she now has the quilting bug and is already planning her next one. Glutton for punishment she also has plans to cash in her next voucher which involves crocheting a baby blanket with Donna.

This lovely baby blanket was crocheted by Linda. She set it off by sewing satin ribbon to the seems. It would have been pretty on it's own but the satin edging really sets it off. This is going into her show box charity. It just so happens that this is our next charity. Watch out for details on what the charity involves and what Linda needs. The good thin is that it doesn't have to be knitting so if you are a stitcher there will be something you can do.

Caroline has started a tradition in work. She knits Christmas tree decorations and places a chocolate inside. This year it was Christmas tree's. She was then asked by her colleagues what they were getting next year. Stumped for all of five minutes she came up with Christmas baubles. This one is the first and even has it's chocolate inside already. She is also currently working on a doll for a friends baby. Not liking the traditional primary colours she has decided to adapt it. I can't wait to see it finished.

Dawn has been back at her card making. She made this lovely Christmas card for Donna. We are all trying to convince her to sell her cards but so far no joy. Who wouldn't want one of these lovely cards? She has decided that this year is the year of me (or rather herself). All her crafting skills are usually used to make something for someone else. This year she is (and quite right too) going to make things for herself. She is starting with a lovely red hat and scarf set.

Anyone else got any crafting New Years resolutions?

As well as the charity I also have plans for our next challenge. We didn't do the autumn one but there will be a spring challenge. Watch out for that one.

Merry Christmas!!!!!

2010-12-19T13:27:00.001-08:00

After two weeks of horrible weather we were beginning to think our Christmas break would be longer than usual. Thankfully it cleared up enough for us to have our planned Christmas party. First of all though I have a lot of finishes to show you as the cold weather has encouraged us to stay in doors and keep busy. Back in May we had our first swap night. Sheena picked up a lovely cross stitch kit and has not only finished it but has also framed it. You can see how fitting it is as the cats look out at the lovely snow scene. Silver thread has added a touch of glitter to it.

Donna has used her crochet skills to make this lovely Christmas stocking (as modelled by Moira). I wonder how many of us would have wanted that as their stocking. Not only is it very pretty but it would also hold a lot of presents!

As you can see the snow has kept Val very busy. She has finished two beautiful quilts and a table runner. The first is a daisy quilt. You can see the daisy pattern in the close up. This is going to be a wall hanging (I think it may also be my favourite as I love daisies). The second is her beautiful Christmas table runner. Helen and I both admired her fabric choices. All of which were festive and went well together. We couldn't decide which of the fabrics was our favourite. Lastly she finished a stunning musical quilt. This is going to a charity raffle. I can't imagine anyone who wouldn't want to buy a ticket in order to win it.

Janette has also been busy. She finished two quilted dogs. The first one is in bold red, black and white musical fabric. This is going to be for charity. The second is a little different from her usual. It's done in tweed fabric. Very different to the other quilted dogs but no less lovely. The last is again done in tweed but this time quilted ducks. These ducks are actually filled with sand are to be door stops.

Roberta finished knitting this lovely baby cardigan for her granddaughter. She used a striping yarn which had a lovely effect on the jumper. Roberta herself is unsure of it's turn out but the rest of us admired it.

Last but certainly not least of our finishes are the dolls. Yes the dolls are back. Stephanie had ordered some more of these little dolls and has already knitted up their little outfits. Everyone is completely enamoured by them and I can see us coming back to more after Christmas.

Our party came later. We had Christmas music playing in the back ground. We had Christmas cracker and of course we all put on our Christmas hats. And as you can see from Adam we also had mince pies. This is the first year we have had the space to do something like this and so we were all very excited about it.

We also had a secret santa style game which Helen suggested months ago. The idea was that everyone gets an unwanted gift or unused item from their home, wrap it up and bring it in. I then put names in a bag and with the help of my glamorous assistant (Suzanna) called them out. Each person came down one at a time, picked a gift and opened it. You could choose to keep the gift or swap with anyone who has went before you. Poor Val got to go first which meant she had no one to swap with. Luckily she liked her gift and got to keep it too. I was actually surprised that more people chose not to swap. We did have a couple though. Helen who had threatened to swap with someone got a beautiful bag which she decided to keep. Stephanie was next and got some lovely leather gloves. She decided thought that the bag would go better with her jacket and so swapped. The only other swap was Moira and Isabel. Moira received designer toilet paper. Isabel was a little jealous and so Moira swapped with her. Now Isabel is chuffed to bits as she can tell everyone she has designer loo roll.

It was a great night and I think everyone enjoyed themselves. Our bakers even brought along some treats for us. Aileen had made some chocolate covered dates with a nut centre. It proved to be a favourite amongst the non-mince pie people. Magdalena also treated us to some traditional Polish Christmas cake. As you can see it was quickly devoured by the group.

Hopefully we can do this again next year. Maybe have to think up a different game. Any ideas?

In the meant time I hope you all have a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year. We will be back on 4th January. Hope to see you there.

Almost forgot, there were several more photo's but obviously I didn't want to completely over run the blog post. You can see the rest of our Christmas photo's on our facebook page.

Multi-talented!

2010-11-29T11:04:00.000-08:00

Like her mum, our youngest knitter is very talented. Zuzanna also does Irish dancing and has won lots of awards. Magdalena decided that she would make her next Irish dancing dress. You can see from the photo's just how much detail went into it, front and back. The white detail on the purple top was hand embroidered. Magdalena's next sewing project is to make herself a coat.

Margaret has also been busy stitching away. A very different kind of stitching mind you. She has just finished a Christmas cross stitch for herself and some Christmas cards.

Still on the Christmas theme Helen made these lovely personalised cards for Stephanie. Very unusual in the way they stand up and definitely a keepsake as they have each of Stephanie's grandchildren's names on them.

Dawn also had a finish. She knitted these fingerless gloves for her friends Christmas. These ones were don't without DPNs and match the hat she knitted not so long ago.

Dawn was asked to make a blanket for a friend. As she didn't have time her mum, Moira, offered to do it instead. Here it is all finished. I love the edging which was admired by others too.

Another Christmas related finish. I managed to finish a shawl for my gran. Was quickly back onto knitting socks that night.

Last but not least we have a finish from Josephine. She crocheted this lovely cardigan for her niece. The buttons were attached that very night.

This is Helen trading in another one of her vouchers. Val had offered to teach her to quilt. She has had a few lessons but both decided to take advantage of the space to add the other layers. She is quilting a lovely Christmas table runner. Can't wait to see it finished!

Our last day is on the 14th December and we will be having our first small Christmas party to celebrate. Also next wee (7th) Carol has offered to give her Japanese quilting demo (demo rather than a class due to time constraints). Knitting group contributions will be going to her hospice charity as a thank you.

Dawn - November 2010 MOTM

2010-11-28T11:22:00.000-08:00

1. Tell us a little about yourself.

I just turned 40 this year and I live with my partner Alex (note - her first answer to this could not be printed here ;))

2. How did you learn to knit?

My granny taught me to knit a long time ago. I have always wanted to improve though as I was always knitting scarves. I wanted to move beyond it.

3. What is your biggest success?

The bear cross stitch. It was massive and I thought I was never going to finish it. Also my baby sock which I was taught to do a few weeks ago.

4. What is your biggest disaster?

I started a pair of gloves last week. I am new to using DPNs and it didn't go well. I will not be beaten though. I will triumph over DPNs eventually.

5. What other crafts do you do?

I do cross stitch, card making, crochet and a bit of beading.

6. Your list of favourites.

Favourite yarn - noro (for the colour). I love good quality such as cotton, Rowan and Cashmere.

Favourite tool/product- my knitpro circular needles. Anything Cath Kidston

Favourite designers - Louisa Harding and Debbie Bliss

Favourite shop - hobbycraft

Favourite online - Sir stampalot, Great British yarns and Black Sheep.

Favourite colours - red, purple

Favourite craft book - dummies guide to knitting

7. What is your ideal goal?

I would like to knit a pair of socks. I know it would be expensive but I would love to do a warp all in a cashmere/silk mix yarn.

8. What do you like to listen to or watch whilst crafting?

I listen to the radio, especially radio 2. I like Amy Winehouse, Biffy Clyro, Pearl Jam and Led Zepplin. I like my rock music.

9. What tip do you have for other knitters/crafters?

Read blogs because they give better advice on tools. These are crafters who have actually used the products so you get an unbiased point of view. They also share their mistakes so that others can learn from them. Not only that they are also inspiring.

10. What is your favourite non-craft book?

I like Harry Potter, His Dark Materials, biographies, Anne Rice, Terry Pratchett and many, many, many, many, many, many more.

For those of you who don't know Dawn has her own blog. You can see it here on 3 Sneezes and a Magpie.

Christmas plans!

2010-11-21T23:06:00.000-08:00

It was Magdalena's birthday on Tuesday (and also Adam's who is now 2) and yet it was Magdalena who made us cake. She baked this lovely sticky, toffee pudding using a recipe she got from the BBC. And yes, it tasted as good as it looked.

She also finished this lovely cable hat which Suzanna is modelling. I have to admit that I love cables! That evening Magdalena was working on her shawl/scarf which she was just finishing off as we left (so hopefully we will have another finish photo from Magdalena).

Roberta knitted this lovely baby jacket. No matter what angle I took the photo from the camera wouldn't pick up the sparkles. So if you didn't see it in person you will have to take my word for it that this lovely jacket was covered in sparkles. Perfect for Christmas.

Last week I mentioned that Isabel and Caroline went to San Francisco. It was actually Allison and Caroline. Although maybe Isabel got to be there in spirit as Caroline brought back fabric which Isabel used to make her this lovely knitting bag.

We have our Christmas plans all set. We are finishing up on the 14th December and coming back on the 4th January. A two week break rather than a full month. We are also going to have our very first little Christmas party. There will be mince meat pies, juice, music and Christmas crackers.

Even hardened criminals like a bit of crochet

2010-11-15T00:08:00.001-08:00

I am afraid there were no photo's of finishes last week (despite my good intentions of keeping up to date with the blog). I do have a photo to share which was sent to me by Caroline. Herself and Isabel went to San Francisco this summer. Whilst there they took the famous Alcatraz tour (if you ever go I recommend the night tour). Some of the cells were made up in the way that they would have been whilst the prison was in use. With their eagle eyes they spotted this crochet blanket and of course took a photo to show us all.

Just wanted to let you know that we will keep going for as long as possible. I have emailed the management suite and I am thinking that we stop on the 14th. That gives us almost a two week break.

And we are up to date!

2010-11-09T00:04:00.001-08:00

Two blog posts in a row! Wonders will never cease. More importantly look at this lovely cake. Elaine was commissioned to make this for Isabel. So lovely! Elaine has been very busy with her cake decorating of late and has been bringing some of her beading along to work on during the group.

We have also had another swap night. This is actually only a small fraction of what was brought along. Even this didn't last long. I think most people managed to come away with something. There were even some fiction books. Anything left behind was taken to the charity shop Roberta helps out in.

As you can see swap night was a busy night and we were still missing a few people.

These cute dolls were dressed by Stephanie. She knitted their little outfits from patterns especially for the dolls. She was going to give them away but after some encouragement from the rest of us she has decided to hang on to them. I have a feeling that a few others will be ordering these dolls and knitting their little outfits.

This is the shawl Roberta has been working on for Josephine. A friend of Josephine's had started it and was unable to finish. Roberta kindly offered to do so and it was finished Tuesday there.

Sorry again for the delay in posts but that's us all caught up now!

Apologies!

2010-11-08T10:57:00.000-08:00

I am so sorry. I really have no excuse for not updating. As it is I will split the last few weeks into two posts. Mainly because the photographs from last week are still on my camera which is at the bottom of my bag.

First of all we had the return of our Ginnie. Not only did she come back to us she was knitting something other than socks (actually she was knitting socks too). The first photo above is a lovely lace scarf she is knitting from the book Arctic Lace. Obviously inspired by her recent quilting cruise in Alaska. The yarn she is using is called qiviut which comes from the down of the musk ox. It is so lovely and soft and Ginnie is enjoying knitting with it. Very expensive too though. The second photo you can see her pinning down a quilt she is working on. She decided to make use of the extra space we have. Hopefully I will get a photo of it all finished.

The above three projects were completed by Roberta. She knitted a lovely cardigan for her granddaughter. In order to use up some white yarn she used it to knit the border and bands. Gives it a more striking look. She also crocheted these lovely blankets (just in time for the lovely weather we are having). She has also been working on another project as a favour to our Josephine. I have a photo of that too but will show it in the next post.

We also have Suzanna here with her very own cross stitch project. After weeks of helping Alison find her way in her own cross stitch Alison brought in a Winnie the Pooh design for Suzanna to try herself. You can see Alison here showing her how to read the chart.

Donna has been working on a lovely beaded scarf using kidsilk haze. In the meant time she has managed to finish this lovely flower broach.

Stephanie has also had a few finishes (most of which you will see on the next post). The lovely cardigan above was knitted by Stephanie although I don't think it has a new owner yet.

This beautiful card is an example of Dawn's other talents. She made this card as for me from herself and Donna. It's a thank you for the sock knitting lesson I gave. I can't believe the amount of detail that has went into the card and it's definitely getting pride of place. Dawn is currently working on a lovely cable scarf for a friend.

We also had some new crafts being tried out. Fiona and Lesley both picked up Christmas latch hook kits from Hobbycraft. You can see them trying it out for the first time.

Again I am sorry for the lack of updates. I do have more photo's to post for you which I will hopefully do soon.

Old and New!

2010-10-11T22:43:00.000-07:00

You will know from the last post that I did Elaine's member of the month interview two weeks ago. Most of you will also know that I ask those being interviewed to bring along some old finishes. In some cases this has involved people bringing in other types of crafts (like Alison with her beautiful tapestry) or finishes that most of us hadn't seen yet. Elaine brought along her Rosie and Jim dolls. This photo was added at the end of her interview but I felt that since everyone loved them so much it would be a shame if it went by unnoticed. These lovely dolls were knitted about 10 years ago and look amazingly like the real thing.

Donna also had a couple of finishes. First off she finished her baby sock from the sock knitting lesson I gave over the last two weeks. Look how neat it is? Have to say it is a lot better than my first toe-up attempt.

Donna also brought this lovely shawl she made using crochet. It was originally done for a wedding. However, in the end she didn't use it as the outfit she bought didn't match. Determined not to let the life of the beautiful shawl be in vain she now uses it as a scarf.

Margaret has also been busy preparing for Christmas. She has knitted two Snowman families for her two daughters and a Christmas pud tree ornament. That night she was working on a third snowman family for herself.

On the 26th we will be having another swap night. It's a fantastic way of getting rid of unwanted crafts and picking up something new. I know a few members even picked up something in a craft they hadn't tried before.

Carol has also kindly offered to give a demonstration on Japanese Quilting as so many of us are interested. I look forward to that myself. Unfortunately she is unable to come along tonight but is happy to arrange a new date.