Episode Three: Custom Knits and Creative Fiber

Episode Three - We're back with more talk about roving preparation
Download the episode here, or check out us out at spuninthesun.libsyn.com/
We're also available in itunes.

PATTERNS MENTIONED:

Hamptons Halter - This can be found in Twinkle's Big City Knits. Michelle is working on this, using three strands of Patons Grace held together. This looks great, and it's knitting up quickly.

Very Easy Scarf - Michelle is casting on a drop stitch scarf from the newest Vogue Knitting (Spring/Summer 09), using Koigu.

Moorish Stipe Socks, by Charlene Schurch - Sandi calls these her "Sorta Red & Black" socks because of the almost red (but really coral) color Koigu used.
WORKSHOPS MENTIONED:

Insubordinknit's Spinning Workshop sounds absolutely wonderful. Michelle and Sandi are hoping to make it to Brooklyn in August, but there are other locations if anyone is interested. Jacey has a wonderful podcast, so be sure to check it out.
ON OUR WHEEL:

Crown Mountain Superwash Merino in Summer of Love colorway. Sandi is spinning this for the Ply By Night group on Ravelry, and will knit it into a Morning Surf Scarf. Briar Rose BFL, specially dyed for the Ply by Night group.

BOOK REVIEW:

Custom Knits, by Wendy Bernard - How in the world are we going to find time to knit all these patterns? Some of our must-knits are the Skinny Empire, the Tuxedo Vest (our daughters would love these!), and the Essential Tank. We also like the instructions on how to make a dress form.

HOW TO - PREPARING ROVING:

Worsted wool is fluffy and multi-directional. Spinning with a long draft helps give it that cushion of air.

Worsted wool, on the other hand, is a smoother, tighter spun yarn that's good for weaving and socks. It's done with an "inchworm" feed.

FAVORITE GADGETS:

Sandi talked about a notions tin made by her friend, Christina (aka Yarn4Nash on Ravelry). The magnetized chart markers are a fantastic idea.

Michelle was impressed with the swiss knit kit. This is a gotta-get-one item!

Michelle also found a beautiful necklace to hold stitch markers.