Patchwork Handknit Jumper

Knitting a jumper in random colours and shapes is quite a challenge - one I find creatively inspiring, even though sometimes there is undoing if a colour or gauge isn't right.  This one was made from different yarns, mostly 100% wool, because I wanted the "worn in" woolly look.  Knobbly and flecky yarns, sometimes vintage finds, can help with this.  In parts, two yarns were knitted together to make up the thickness.

There is a little pocket on the left side which I lined with cotton fabric.  Normally, they would have a knitted lining, but I didn't want the bulk, especially at hip level.  I felt the little pocket added to the ' country ' feel of the jumper.

Groovy Legwarmers

Another way to use small amounts of wool is to create some stripey legwarmers, knitted in 8 ply.  Starting at the ankle, cast on 42 stitches with 4.00mm needles - working a single rib band, then change to 4.50mm needles.  Increase each end on every 6th row, until a width is reached that corresponds to the measurement of the thigh, or however long you want them to be.  Change back to smaller needles to finish with a 3.5cm (1 1/2") band at the top.

There's a lot of ending off to do, but don't hurry and it will be done in no time.  :)

p.s. 42 stitches is enough to fit over a slim foot.  You can start with any amount, to fit over foot and heel - slightly stretched.

Vintage Style Teacosy

Teacosies as a practicality, never seem to go out of fashion. They lend themselves to whimsical creative experiments while keeping the tea hot at the same time.

Completed Bolero Shrug

Monique, aged 9, will be happy that her new shrug is completed, although it may be another two or three months before the weather is cool enough to wear it.

Mohair Jacket

The red, hairy looking mohair is one of the 1980's novelty yarns, when they first became fashionable - but also expensive. I was fortunate to acquire some on sale, but not enough for a complete jacket. A contrasting lavender blue mohair and wool mix, in the same ply was used for a decorative yoke, with blobs of the same, brought into the main section to give some balance and interest.

The alternative and contrasting painted toggle buttons also helped with the overall balance of colour. Edges on the sleeves and bottom are finished with crochet in a gold shade of pearle cotton, that matched the hairy bits in the red mohair.

Monique's Bolero Shrug

A cosy little shrug in the making - for a 9 year old. The design is an all over lacy pattern with crochet edges and a clasp with a crochet rose at the front.