Fallen off the wagon

Well, children, your Auntie Duffy has decidedly failed in the Knit From Your Stash 2007. There has been simply too much good stuff out there. What ended up being the final straw was the Origami Cardi by Norah Gaughan in the latest IK. I just kept going back to it when I leafed through the mag, which tells me that I'm going to do it eventually. Of course I considered what would this look like on someone of my shaping (wide, hippy, no boobs) but I think it will be okay. I have wide shoulders to counter the width of my hips so the cardi won't make me look like I have a butt the size of a bus. The angles of the front direct the eye to the cleavage and give the illusion of shaping. So I went yarn shopping.

The pattern calls for Berroco's Love It which when I saw it in person didn't really rev my motor. It's a cotton blend but rather blah. So I searched for a yarn in the same gauge (not an easy task, kids, to find a cotton yarn in the same gauge and there was nothing in my stash). I ended up going with this instead. It will give the cardigan more drape. Also I'm doing the berry stitch borders in a different color than the body. I'm very excited about this one and can't wait to finish the Rogue so that I can start the Cardi. But this pretty much made my Knit From My Stash promise toast.

Aunties Update

One blanket got completed in time for the baby shower on the 7th but no pictures were taken. It had been a very hectic weekend with choir retreat so I forgot. But it will be appreciated by its recipient. My hosts from the retreat donated a couple of grocery bags of Jiffy yarn which is getting hooked into carrier blankets. We're still taking squares; the next shower will be in August.

Aunties In Stitches

The role of aunt is one of those that varies from family to family. Some aunts are aloof; some are strait-laced; some are out of control; some are wild and fun. Some are a constant presence. Some are never heard from but for an occasional phone call and a Christmas card. Aunts don't have to be blood relatives. It's not unusual for a good family friend to be an aunt to a child.

At the office I have a group called Aunties In Stitches who knit and crochet caps for preemies at one of the local hospitals. We've also done burial gowns and clothing drives for the siblings of newborns. The philosophy behind the group is that every child should have an aunt, because an aunt can be a great source of comfort, share secrets, and provide guidance. This week a project came up that focuses on gathering baby basics for families in need. The Oregon Department of Human Services in conjunction with Soroptimist Clubs are hosting baby showers located in some Oregon cities where folks can drop off goods for babies. I'm organizing folks to knit or crochet up squares for making baby blankets. Folks can create solid fabric squares 9" square out of soft washable yarn, then I'll put them together to make blankets. Twelve squares make a nice sized car or stroller blanket. There are many washcloth patterns out there that would make fabulous squares. If you're interested in participating, please contact me at fiberqat AT gmail DOT com for details on where to drop off completed squares and answer questions.

Update: Abundant Yarn & Dyeworks has agreed to be a drop off point for finished squares. Choose bright or pastel colors for the squares. While you're at Abundant, treat yourself to a coffee or Italian soda or yarn. Thanks!