this 'n that

This will be brief, because it's flipping gorgeous outside and I want to get out and enjoy it. As soon as Daughter is up from her nap we are so outta here.

First up, a skirt for the sewing seeds project. This skirt will eventually be going to Africa for a little girl who needs it. I really like to participate in projects like this because I have the ability and the supplies, both of which are typically used for pleasure only. I mean, quite frankly, I could just go to Target and buy Daughter a season's worth of clothing, but I like to create much of her wardrobe because it's fun. Some folks don't have the option of driving down to the local superstore to buy whatever they want/need. Some don't even have the option of sewing. It is the least we can do as the most privileged country on the planet.

I don't know what pattern this is because I had to borrow it - my Joann Fabrics was sold out when I tried to go buy a copy. But this tiered-style skirt is everywhere this season, so you could find one from any of the major pattern companies. I believe this was from Simplicity. I made a size 5. The fabric is a nice quilt-shop quality 100% cotton calico that I've had sitting around here for ages. I'm so glad I was able to use it for something worthwhile. The gathers almost killed me, but boy, the final result is adorable.

On the homefront, I have been doing some utilitarian knitting. Daughter is growing like a weed and needs a cardigan to wear for spring. I wanted a cotton blend but I can't find Lion Brand's reissued Cotton Ease in my local stores. Anyone know if the big stores will be selling it? I tried Joann's, AC Moore, and Michaels. Nothing. So I went with Bernat Denim Style (30% cotton/70% acrylic) in the natural colorway. It's a nice heavy worsted and knits up soft and purdy. I'm using the Knitting Pure and Simple infant cardigan pattern in the 18-month size because it's still plenty big around for Daughter. I'm just lengthening the body and sleeves. I think I'll put a hood on it too, both because it's cute and because Spring can be chilly.

The only problem I'm having is that this yarn 'fuzzes' and little bits get all over my clothes, up my nose, and in my eyes. I hope that problem goes away after washing and drying.

And now, just for pure eye candy goodness...tastycakes! Of yarn, that is...

Mom wanted to order some yarn from Knitpicks but needed to get to $45 to avoid paying shipping (sheesh, remember when you only had to order $30 to get free shipping?). So I graciously volunteered to buy some stuff. People, I am selfless. The things I will do to help others! It boggles the mind!

This is 3 skeins of Sock Memories in the Yukon colorway to make socks for Hubs' birthday (in July). I figure if I start now I can throw them aside occasionally when I get bored knitting ten miles of stockinette for his size 12 feet. So, see, that wasn't such a selfish order.

But it is also 2 skeins of Sock Memories in the Geranium colorway. All for moi. Oh, come on, I have to do something for myself sometimes. Anyway, I needed to be cheered because my house is crumbling and we will be forking over mucho dinero to fix it very soon. And what is more cheerful than spring-like weather and red/hot pink/orange/chartreuse yarn?

Speaking of which...I'm heading outside. Catch ya' later.