Mittens for Me! Me! Me!

Well, the weather in Atlanta doesn't really justify knitting mittens right now but it is still January which means it's time for the NaKniMitMo  Knitalong.  I decided to knit Wood Hollow Mittens by Kirsten Kapur.  I'm using Aslan Trends Royal Alpaca Yarn in this pretty magenta color.

This little guy is hanging out with me while I knit:

Isn't that the cutest stitchmarker ever?  I found a set in Lavender Hill Knits' Etsy Shop.  Lots of cute stitchmarker sets are available there!

The pattern is fairly easy ... an eight row pattern repeat with cables ... There was a twisted stitch that was described to be knit without the help of a cable needle but I found it easier to use a cable needle.  I made a slight modification at the top to adjust the length without finishing another 8 row repeat. Overall, an enjoyable and quick knit.  I'm hoping to cast on the second one this afternoon while at my daughter's dance rehearsals.



The Colors of the Year 2012

I've only recently become aware that Pantone,  a renowned authority on color, announces its annual color of the year in the early fall.  Just recently announced, the  2012 color of the year, Tangerine Tango, is a truly bright and vibrant shade of orange, ready to re-energize you.

Pantone's 2012 Color of the Year!

And, then, last week, I read that Benjamin Moore, my favorite maker of paint, announced its 2012 Color of the Year, Wythe Blue, a soothing medium blue.  It's grouped in Benjamin Moore's  Earth & Sky Color Trends to assist you in creating a perfect relaxing color palette!

Benjmain Moore's Earth & Sky Color Trend Includes Wythe Blue

Of course, it's easy to find ways to use both of the colors around your home.  Throw pillows are a great (and affordable) way to give your home a color boost!

Another fun way to add the 2012 Color of the Year to your life would be to include it in your landscaping plans this spring...I'm thinking a little Tangerine Tango in the garden:

What about knitting with these beautiful colors of the year?  I found a few skeins in my stash which are close.

Since I'm trying to use yarn that I already own instead of rushing out to buy new yarn, I'll stick with these shades when trying out the 2012 colors.  Show here:  MadelineTosh Merino Light in Magnolia Leaf, MadelineTosh Vintage in Saffron, Pagewood Farm in Mississippi Mud, The Loopy Ewe Solid Series in Serenity Green, Madeline Tosh Sock in Mica and Royal Alpaca in #708.  

So, what do you think of the 2012 Colors of the Year?!!

You Know What This Means, Right?

I finished the first of the  Hermione Everyday Socks:

What a nice pattern!  A 4 row 4 stitch pattern that is super simple to memorize!  Every other row is all knit!

The yarn is terrific too! It's Pagewood Farm Alyeska in Cherry Blossom which is incredibly soft with a 80% Merino Wool, 10% Cashmere 10% Nylon Blend.  Perfect for nice soft socks!

I'm hoping to have some time today to really make progress on the second sock.  What are you knitting today?

Happy New Year!!

Wishing everyone the best for 2012!