Fall-time Knitting

It's fall again and while I haven't posted in a while, I am thinking about what projects I can start working on. As I near the completion of the first year in my MBA Program, I am taking note of the many things I have been required to set aside so that I can find time for my studies. Knitting and other fabric related projects have been one of those things.

Yet, as the cool weather sets in, I cannot help but think about all of the scarves and hats and mittens I would like to create as gifts for my family and friends. How do I find the time?

Stop by and share your new fall projects. At a minimum, I hope to live vicariously through you.

For inspiration, check out this "Either-Or Capelet" I found in Fringe's Etsy shop or this "Blooming Trim Scarf in Thistle" I found in Fray's Etsy shop.

Latte Neck Cozy Part 2 - Riddled With Frustration

Well let's just say that I started this "new" project...over two months ago. The Latte Neck Cozy was supposed to be my pride and joy! Yet I find myself battling procrastination. The problem is that it is taking too long to complete. For some unexplainable reason, the neck cozy is not coming together as I expected. Literally, I have taken it apart and started over 3 times.

The first time I started over, I was 3/4 of the way finished. That is before I realized that I was crocheting in the wrong direction! Meaning... when I tried t pick the project up and begin where I stopped the previous night I began crocheting on the wrong side of the cozy. What the #@%$#%^%? So I unraveled the entire thing and began again.

The second time, I kept dropping stitches! Granted this is a different type of yarn - it changes widths throughout the skein ranging from less than 1/4 of an inch to 3/4 of an inch. But I didn't have this problem the first time, so why now? Needless to say, I unraveled the neck cozy again.

I have started the project AGAIN, but with little progress. I am no longer excited about my Latte Neck Cozy. This is a really simple project - I cannot believe I am experiencing such difficulties. Aaaggghhh!!!!

Latte Neck Cozy

I am working on my next project for mom or possibly big sister, aunt, or cousin. As I stated previously, I have this unnatural affection towards neck cozies - which I have yet to determine the appropriate name. Neck cozy? Scarflette? Neckwarmer? Help! Because I see these terms used interchangeably, I'm not sure.

Anyway, I am using a Lion Brand Yarn called Bolero. It is both a thick-and-thin all-wool yarn. According to the Lion Brand website Bolero also "works up quickly and felts beautifully." Just a few other facts about Bolero:

• Weight Category: 6 - Super Bulky: Bulky, Roving Yarn
• 3.50 oz./100 g (55 yd/50 m)
• 100% Wool
• Gauge:Knit: 6 stitches by 8 rows = 4" (10 cm) with US #19 (15 mm) needles
• Crochet: 4 sc by 5 rows = 4" (10 cm) with size Q-19 (15.mm) hook

The Bolero yarn comes in a variety of colors; however, I have chosen the "Latte". Latte is a beautiful mixture of cream and brown. I cannot wait to finish this project. The beauty of the yarn alone may cause me to keep the neck cozy for myself! Not to mention it is incredibly soft and thick.

The 100% wool fibers will felt if washed by machine in hot water; therefore special care instructions are required. Bolero requires hand washing in cool or warm water; dry flat and not by machine. Additionally, no bleach or iron.

If you use Bolero yarn, share your project. To be featured on TabiHats feel free to comment your name, contact email address, and project type for approval.

Neck Cozy/Scarflette/Neckwarmer

I had never seen neck cozies also known as scarflettes also known as neckwarmers until recently. Now that's all I have been thinking about is creating one.

In honor of my new found passion, I am sharing the first of many. Quaintly named "Cedar Rose" after the color of the yarn, I have been tickled pink since I completed this little number. It buttons on the diagonal with two wooden buttons.

Made with Patons "Nuance" yarn, this neck cozy/scarflette/neckwarmer is comprised of multiple textures. The yarn itself contains: wool, acrylic, mohair, and metallic thread! I absolutely love this yarn and cannot wait to make another piece using it.

If you make neck cozies/scarflettes/neckwarmers let me know via comment or email. I would love to feature your design on my blog.