Knitting 2.0

A terrific article from the Guardian on the rise in popularity of knitting and crochet.

What is interesting is that I find myself knitting so much more frequently than crochet these days. I think that a large part of the reason has got to do with my fascination obsession with seamless construction. I find that it is easy to fix mistakes in knitting without a whole lot of ripping; the same is not the case for crochet. I’m trending towards crochet for more modular construction. As one commentator put it: “If you want to work in rounds or lines, knitting is your friend, but for multidirectional work then crochet is definitely your pal.”

Another reason I find I am indulging more in knitting vs. crochet is that I hardly ever use the pattern specified yarn and I find it a lot easier to find suitable yarn substitutions for knitting patterns In crochet, I find the way each yarn handles gives a lot more variation to gauge, drape and look. These variables make yarn substitution more challenging for patterns in crochet.

It’s going to be interesting to see how I wax and wane on the issue of time devoted to crochet versus knitting as my craft develops. Already I feel the lure of Tunisian and beaded crochet pulling me away from my love of garter stitch ……..

Recent links I enjoyed

This is intended to be the first post of an ongoing series. The idea is to share links that caught my eye.

These links have interesting tidbits such as informative tutorials, well-researched lists, interesting events or inspirational stuff.

The nature of the internet is ephemeral and I have no idea how many of these links will remain active. Enjoy them while they last!

ENCYCLOPEDIA OF NEEDLEWORK by Thérèse de Dillmont

Truly encyclopedic source, covering everything from plain sewing to hairpin crochet. Well annotated with hyperlinks to the content list. A fascinating and detailed description of what chicks were up to in the 1880′s. Although we’re doing many of the same things in the 21st century, I’m continuously grateful that we can now do this kind of stuff for pure pleasure and not because we need to build our trousseaus or have limited other avenues to earn a living.

20 Ways to Improve Your Sewing

A terrific and practical list.

RedLipstick’s Staceyjoy Elkins design and her fantastically clever thoughts on transcribing stitch patterns.

The stitch pattern featured in this link was originally published in KnitKnit Issue #4 October 2004. Not only is this textured pattern amazing and stylish, it’s reversible with an ultra-modern sensibility. She is a fantastic designer and it would be so wonderful if she ever wrote her own technical book for the general knitting public.

Things my girlfriend and I have argued about

Very funny. Good thing Margret doesn’t have a yarn stash.