Vickie Howell's Blog: Vickie Howell's Website, page 22
March 2, 2020
Log Cabin Knit Squares
Log Cabin Knit SquaresOn this week’s episode of Ask Me Monday, I discuss the foundation of creating modular pieces by showing how to create Log Cabin knit squares. Watch the tutorial, then play around with the practice swatch below!
This episode of Ask Me Monday is sponsored by Knitter’s Pride/ KnitPro
See more KP products during “Vic’s Tips” segments of The Knit Show!
Featured product: Knitter’s Pride Ginger Double Pointed Needle Set & Smart Stix DPNs
Log Cabin Knit Square: Swatch it!
MATERIALS
Worsted Weight Yarn in Colors A, B, C & D (I used Ewe Ewe Yarns Wooly Worsted)
Knitter’s Pride Ginger DPNs (I love my full set!)
DIRECTIONS
BLOCK 1:
Using Color A CO 5 sts.
Rows 1-18: Knit.
BO on RS, leaving last st on the needle.
BLOCK 2:
With RS facing, rotate 90 degrees clockwise.
With Color B, PU 10 sts along the long edge of BLOCK 1.– 11 sts.
Row 1 (WS): K to last 2 sts, k2tog (this will get rid of the Color A st.)
Rows 2-8: Knit.
BO on RS, leaving the last stitch on the needle.
BLOCK 3:
With RS facing, rotate your work 90 degrees clockwise.
With color C, PU 5 sts along the short edge of BLOCK 2, and 5 sts along CO edge of BLOCK 1. — 11 sts.
Work as for BLOCK 2, beginning with Row 1.
BLOCK 4:
With RS facing, rotate your work 90 degrees clockwise.
With Color B, PU 5 sts along the CO edge of BLOCK 3 and 10 sts along the long edge of Box 1 — 16 sts
Work as for BLOCK 2, beginning with Row 1.
BLOCK 5:
With RS facing, rotate your work 90 degrees clockwise.
With Color D, PU 5 sts along the short edge of BLOCK 4, 5 sts along the BO edge of BLOCK 1, and 5 sts along the short edge of BLOCK 2. — 16 sts
Work as for BLOCK 2, beginning with Row 1.
BLOCK 6:
With RS facing, rotate your work 90 degrees clockwise.
With Color A, PU 5 sts along the short edge of BLOCK 5, 10 sts along the BO edge of BLOCK 2, and 5 sts along the short edge of BLOCK 3. — 21 sts.
Work as for BLOCK 2, beginning with Row 1.
BO last remaining st.
FINISHING
Weave in ends. Block piece, if necessary.
Wärme Log Cabin Knit Square Mitts: Knit Them!
Put your skills to work by making the Warme Mitts by Ewe Ewe Yarn’s Heather Walpole from my book, The Knit Vibe, available in our YarnYAY! shop, on Amazon or wherever you get your books!
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February 25, 2020
Can I Take Knitting Needles on an Airplane?
Can I Take Knitting Needles on an Airplane?
(And other, traveling-while-knitting scoop.)
When I’m on the road to shoot a video segment, tour for a book, or teach at a convention one of the things I’m most frequently asked is if I was able to take my knitting or crochet tools on the plane with me. On this week’s episode of Ask Me Monday, I talk travel tips for us stitchers!
This episode of Ask Me Monday is sponsored by Knitter’s Pride/ KnitPro
See more KP products during “Vic’s Tips” segments of The Knit Show!
Pro Tip: Travel with an interchangeable set. That way if your find that your gauge is off while traveling, or if you gt inspired by a new project, you won’t have to go out and purchase more needles. You’ll be prepared for anything the knittign gods through at you! My favorite needles to take on-the-go is the Knitter’s Pride Ginger Deluxe Interchangable set.
Q: Can I take crochet hooks on an airplane?
YES! No matter if you choose to work with a wooden hook such as Knitter’s Pride Gingers, a metal hook with a rubberized handle like Knitter’s Pride Waves, or the straight-up aluminum Knitter’s Pride Zing! hooks, crocheters, you are free to board!
Q: Can I take knitting needles on an airplane?
A: The short answer is yes. I actually got on a plane with size 25mm (you know, the ones like Knitter’s Pride Jumbo Birch, which resemble vampire stakes) needles shortly after 9/11 without incident. Since I’ve traveled countless times around the U.S., Canada, and England with every make and model (straights, circs, dpns, metal, bamboo, etc.) of needle imaginable. Knitters, we are (*mostly) good to go!
* Please note that there are some needle restrictions on certain international flights. If you’re traveling abroad, I suggest calling the respective airline ahead of time.
Q: Can I take scissors on an airplane?
A: This is the one I personally have found the most surprising. The answer is, scissors, they make the cut! And I’m not just talking about those itty-bitty embroidery scissors we stitchers usually keep on hand. Nope, regular ol’ scissors, within reason, are a go. On a recent domestic trip to a convention, I accidentally brought a pair of full-on fabric scissors in my carry-on bag. I thought for sure, I was going to have to say goodbye to that $50 tool. However, although I was pulled aside and my bag searched, the TSA officer allowed me to keep my pair since the blades met the requirement of being under 4″ from the pivot point. Who knew?
If traveling with scissors makes you nervous, though, a great alternative for minor on-board snipping is the Knitter’s Pride Yarn Cutter. You can wear it on a chain as a necklace, or throw it in a notions bag without the worry of being stopped.
So there you have it, three traveling crafter questions answered! Please note though, that TSA rules do change. I recommend checking out their website for definitive answers to your project bag packing questions.
Safe travels!
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February 19, 2020
Join Me at Stitches West!
Stitches West
Will you be at Stitches West in Santa Clara, CA this weekend? Be sure to stop by and say “hi”! My classes are all sold out but no worries, there are a few other FREE events you can check out. Hope to see you there!
Friday the 20th, 1pm: Crystal Stitch Markers/ Wine Charms with Vickie Howell, The Knit Vibe , Marketplace Playground
Friday the 20th, 2pm: The Knit Vibe book signing, Jimmy Beans Wool’s booth
Friday the 20th, 5pm: YarnYAY! Casual Meet-up, Hyatt Regency Hotel Bar
Saturday the 21st, 6pm: Teacher’s Dinner
Sunday the 22nd, 12:30pm: The Knit Vibe book signing, Imagiknits booth
Sunday the 22nd, 1:30pm: Crystal Stitch Markers/ Wine Charms with Vickie Howell, The Knit Vibe , Marketplace Playground
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February 17, 2020
Crochet Seed Stitch
Crochet Seed Stitch
This week on Ask Me Monday I show two ways to crochet half-double crochet Seed Stitch: in-the-round, and worked flat. This stitch is a great choice for home decor items, blankets, or mittens like those featured in the February YarnYAY! subscription box.
Give the episode a watch, then practice with the swatches below. Oh, and don’t forget to bookmark this tutorial for future reference!
This episode of Ask Me Monday is sponsored by Knitter’s Pride/ KnitPro
See more KP products during “Vic’s Tips” segments of The Knit Show!
Featured Products: Knitter’s Pride Waves Crochet Hooks
Crochet Seed Stitch: Practice Swatches
MATERIALS
Worsted weight yarn
Size US 8/5mm Knitter’s Pride Waves crochet hook
DIRECTIONS
Crochet Seed Stitch: Swatch #1 Flat
Ch 20.
Row 1: Hdc in the 3rd ch from hook, and every ch to end. — 18 sts.
Rows 2-3: *FPhdc, BPhdc; rep from * to end.
Rep Rows 2-3 until piece measures 4″/10 cm from beg edge.
Fasten off.
Crochet Seed Stitch: Swatch #2 In-the-Round
Ch 20. Join rnd with a sl st in beg-ch, taking care not to twist.
Rnd 1: Ch 2 (counts as hdc), hdc in every ch around. — 20 sts
Rnd 2: Ch 2 (counts as FPhdc), *BPhdc, FPhdc; rep from * to last st, BPhdc in last st; join rnd with a sl st in the BACK loop of beg-ch (this will push the stitch forward).
Rnd 3: Ch 2 (counts as BPhdc), *FPhdc, BPhdc; rep from * to last st, FPhdc in last st; join rnd with a sl st in the top of beg-ch.
Rep Rows 2-3, four times more.
Last Rnd: Ch 2 (counts as hdc), hdc in every ch around.
Fasten off.
Crochet Seed Stitch: Put Your Skills to Work
Make the crochet version of the Convertible Mitts from February’s YarnYAY! Subscribe now!
Convertible Mitts by Vickie Howell for YarnYAY! (February ’20 box)
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February 13, 2020
DIY Lucet Knit Trivets
DIY Lucet Knit Trivets
Lean into that Scandi-style by using a Viking-days tool to make a modern-looking lucet knit trivet as a gift or for your home. Here’s how!
MATERIALS
YarnYAY! Lucet Knit Trivet Kit
OR
Lucet (aka knitting fork)
Approx 45′, ¼” Cotton Rope
Cotton String
Sharp Tapestry Needle
OPTIONAL: Vegan Leather Decorative Tab and either Rivet or Sewing Supplies
FINISHED MEASUREMENTS
Approx. 6 ½” Circle
DIRECTIONS
Use Method #2 in this video to knit the cord for this project.
Leaving an 8″/20 cm tail and using the lucet and rope, knit a 65″/165 cm cord. Fasten off.
Beginning from center-out, roll cord into a spiral formation.
Using needle and string, whip stitch spiral layers together to tail; fold over tail to create loop, whip stitch around to secure. Tie off, weave in ends and trim.
OPTIONAL: Fold vinyl tab around bottom of loop. Machine, or hand-sew, or use a rivet to shut.
P.S. A shout-out to Sticker Mule for creating the cute, little YarnYAY! stickers we’re now using on our packages. That little pop of aqua, really helps our mailers feel special! Next up: I’m thinking I may need to start declaring my YAY! for the yarn via vinyl decals for car windows!
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February 10, 2020
Cup O’ Love Coffee Cup Cozy
This episode of Ask Me Monday is sponsored by Knitter’s Pride/ KnitPro
See more KP products during “Vic’s Tips” segments of The Knit Show!
Featured Products: Knitter’s Pride Waves Crochet Hooks
Heart Coffee Cozy
MATERIALS
DK-weight (double-stranded) or Aran-weight (single-stranded) yarn, in MC and CC
Knitter’s Pride US H/5 mm Waves crochet hook
Tapestry needle
GAUGE
3.25 sts per inch in FPhdc, BPhdc Rib
DIRECTIONS
Cozy:
Ch 28, join rnd with a sl st in beg-ch.
Rnd 1: Ch 2 (counts as hdc), hdc in every st around. — 28 sts
Rnd 2: Ch 2, *FPhdc, BPhdc; rep from * around. Join rnd with a sl st in the top of beg-ch.
Repeat Rnd 2 until piece measures 3 1/2″ from edge.
Fasten off.
Heart applique:
Using the magic circle method, work the following stitches in the center circle:
Rnd 1: Ch 3, 3 tr, 3 dc, tr, 3 dc, 3 tr, ch 3; join rnd with a sl st in center ring.
Rnd 2: 2 sc into the side of chains, 3 sc next st, sc in next 5 sts, hdc in next st (point of heart), sc in next 5 sts, 3 sc in next st, 2 sc into the side of chains; join rnd with a sl st in base of beginning.
Fasten off, leaving a long tail for seaming.
FINISHING
Using the tail and tapestry needle, sew heart applique onto the front of cozy.
Weave in ends.
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February 8, 2020
Knitwear of the Oscars
Knitwear of the Oscars
It’s impossible to be a knitter and not notice any and every piece of knitwear that shows up in a TV show (do we still call them that with steaming?) or film. For years I wrote regular “Movie Monday” posts featuring the yarn-made garments, accessories and home decor items that I spied in whatever I was watching. Although I’ve long since stopped writing about them, I most definitely haven’t ceased gleefully noticing on-screen stitch wear.
Since the Oscars are this weekend, and I’ve seen all but two out of the nine Best Picture nominees, and many from other categories, I thought it’d be fun to settle into my old ways for a spell by highlighting just some of the knit and crochet pieces from *this year’s Academy honored films. Oh, and a huge shout-out to all of the amazing costume designers who’ve seen fit to include knitwear in their work!
Knitwear of the Oscars: Best Picture
Little Women (Sony Pictures, Costumes by )
Photo courtesy of Sony Pictures
Beth, Jo, Meg, and Amy wearing Fair Isle mittens and a ruffled scarf. Photo courtesy of Sony Pictures.
Little Women is a veritable feast for the knitwear lover’s eyes! From the shawl-turned-chest-wrap donned by many of the women in this film to the frilly collars to intricate Fair Isle mittens, wool was so well represented in this film that I could write an entire ode just to this one movie.
Suggested Patterns:
Jo’s Shawl, by Fiber Workshop
Love Triangle Shawlette (extended version) by Vickie Howell
Shine Mittens by Sophia Kammeborn
1917 (Universal Pictures, Costume Design by )
Colonel Mackenzie in Seed stitch tie. Photo courtesy of Universal Pictures
Seed stitch tie. Photo courtesy of Universal Pictures
1917 was a masterpiece of film-making. Beautiful, heart-wrenching, and epic. The cherry on top, though was when Benedict Cumberbatch’s character turned to not only reveal the stunt-casting of his cameo but also, a knit tie.
Suggested Pattern:
Tye-phoon from AwareKnits by Vickie Howell & Adrienne Armstrong
The Joker (Warner Bros, Costume Design by )
Sophie in shawl collar cardigan. Photo courtesy of Warner Brothers.
The Joker really only had glimpses of knitwear but sweater, I saw you. Girl, though, I would need a cozy cardigan, too if I were being stalked by an unfed Joaquin Pheonix!
Suggested Pattern:
Comfort Fade Cardi by Andrea Mowry
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (Sony Pictures, Costume Design by multiple)
Pussycat in crochet halter and fringed bag. Photo courtesy of Sony Pictures
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood used crochet expertly to evoke the hippie spirit of Manson Family member, Pussycat. Actress Margaret Qualley, as the character, wore several pieces throughout the film, including this halter top, and cross-body fringed bag.
Suggested Patterns:
Meditteranean Love by DROPS Design
Tashe Bag by Drew Emborsky from The Knit Vibe by Vickie Howell
Jojo Rabbit (Fox Searchlight, Costume Design by )
Rosie in a striped, ruched top. Photo courtesy of Fox Searchlight
Rosie in chevron jacket. Photo courtesy of Fox Searchlight
Scarlet Johansson was a delight as Rosie in Jojo Rabbit. The sweaters she wore as the character, though were I mean look at those artfully ruched sleeves on the stripy pullover! And, anyone who says chevrons are over, needs to get schooled by this cardigan. Perfection!
Suggested Patterns:
Honey Bop by Amy Appel
Fading Lines by Joji Locatelli
Marriage Story (Netflix, Costume Design by )
Nicole in ribbed cardi. Photo Courtesy of Netflix
In Marriage Story the ribbed cardigans worn by Scarlet Johansson’s character Nicole felt like the physical manifestation of a much-needed hug. A good cardigan does the same for me from time to time.
Suggested Pattern:
Cardigan i Patent by Helga Isager
Knitwear of the Oscars: Actor in a Supporting Role
A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood (Sony Pictures, Costume Design by Arjun Bhasin, Sweater Knitting by Yasemin Esmek)
Fred Rogers in Stockinette cardigan. Photo courtesy of Sony Pictures
Fred Rogers in Stockinette Stitch pullover. Photo courtesy of Sony Pictures
Who is Mister Rogers without his iconic sweaters? In A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood the knitwear itself, along with Tom Hanks, could’ve been nominated for their supporting role!
Suggested Patterns:
Beekman 1802 Cardigan, by Beekman 1802
Greensleeves from AwareKnits by Vickie Howell and Adrienne Armstrong
Claws & Effect by Josh Bennett
Knitwear of the Oscars: Actress in a Supporting Role
Richard Jewell (Warner Bros, Costume Design by )
Richard Jewell in Fair Isle and intarsia sweater. Photo courtesy of Waner Bros
Richard Jewell is the only film in this post that I’ve yet to see. However, I’d be an irresponsible knitter if I were to not give a mention to this sweater spectacle! Why flamingos? Well, read, I say, why not?!
Suggested Patterns:
Flamingo Parade by DROPS
Raga by Violet M.B. McQuade
Knitwear of the Oscars: Writing (Original Screenplay)
Knives Out (Lionsgate, Costume Design by )
Aran sweater and ribbed pullover. Photo courtesy of Lionsgate
Ransom Drysdale in an Aran pullover (aka jumper). Photo courtesy of Lionsgate.
Marta Cabrera in rainbow scarf. Photo courtesy of Lionsgate
If there was an Oscar being given out for best-wearing-of an Aran Sweater, Chris Evans would win it by a landslide. I mean, this piece deserves its own Twitter account! But I digress.
There are a few sweaters, scarves and accessories in this movie which, for me, just added to the fun of this joyride of a film.
Random side note: In 2012 I got to interview Director Rian Johnson when he was promoting his film Looper. You can see that here.
Suggested Patterns:
Svenson by Jared Flood
Palette Scarf by Vickie Howell
Thanks for walking with me on this trip down Knitwear of the Oscars lane. Enjoy watching the Academy Awards this Sunday evening!
*Although I’ve seen all but one of the films shown here, I’ve by no means seen all of the films nominated across all categories, so it’s likely that I’ve missed pieces and/or couldn’t find photography to represent them. I also only listed each movie under one category, although many were nominated multiple times. This article is meant as a film-and-knitwear-design fangirl post only.
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February 3, 2020
YarnYAY! February Box
It’s that time of the month when I get to reveal my choices for the latest YarnYAY! subscription box! This month, not only did I get to team up with one of my industry friends, but I’m also thrilled to announce that February’s box celebrates FIVE female-run businesses. We have a limited amount of stock and sold out in January, so scroll down to see what’s in YarnYAY! February, then get yours in our shop while they last. Enjoy!
YarnYAY! February: What’s Inside
Chic Sheep | Marly Bird for Red Heart
Chic sheep is super-soft, washable, 100% merino wool, in fun and happy colors designed by Marly Bird! We chose Lipstick Red, a vibrant shade perfect for Valentine’s month!
Chic Sheep is a Red Heart brand, departing from the usual acrylic, showcasing the beauty of wool. Red Heart, for which Marly is the spokesperson, was recently acquired by yarn manufacturing giant, Spinrite, for which Vickie was the spokesperson for 6 years. Vickie & Marly have been colleagues and friends for years and always look for ways to support one another. See the rest of the Chic Sheep line at: yarnspirations.com and marlybird.com.
Convertible Mitts patterns | designs by Marly Bird & Vickie Howell
This month we’re cuddling up and keeping cozy, whilst keeping our options open with convertible mittens! The knit version, designed by Marly, employs ribbing and horseshoe cables for a beautiful, classic pair. The crochet set, by Vickie, are made in a warm, textural seed stitch.
RS/WS Best Friend Progress Keepers | Katrinkles
Best friends are always together, inseparable – like the front and back of your knitting! Inspired by the “Best Friends” jewelry charms that many of us shared with our schoolyard BFFs, these progress keepers make it easy to tell the right side from the wrong side of your work.
Katrinkles, founded by Katy Westcott, is a U.S. based business, focused on supporting indie, women-run and BIPOC-owned businesses. For more info go to: katrinkles.com
Claw Clips | Cocoknits
Claw clips are like tiny, extra hands holding your knit or crochet pieces together while you seam them!
Coco knits is based in Oakland, CA and owned by Julie Weisenberger. For more info go to: cocoknits.com
Tapestry Needle | Namaste
One can never have too many tapestry needles, so here’s one to add to your collection! Namaste is owned by Laura Zander. For more of their products
go to: jimmybeanswool.com
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January 30, 2020
Lucet (aka Knitting Fork) Knit Rope Necklace
DIY Lucet Knit Rope Necklace
Looking for a quick project for a craft night with friends? Need an accessory to wear with your outfit today? This Lucet Knit Rope Necklace is for you!
A lucet, aka knitting fork, is a tool that goes back to the Viking days. It’s used to make lengths of cord, out of anything string-like, which can then be used for any number of things (or sewn or woven together to make even more!) Pair up this days-of-old tool with some simple rope and wooden beads and get a Scandinavian-modern style accessory that’s both quick to make and cool to wear. My favorite combo! Here’s how.
How to Use a Lucet
Lucet Knit Rope Necklace
MATERIALS
YarnYAY! Lucet (aka knitting fork)
Approx 2yds, ¼” Cotton Rope (clothesline works!)
2, Large-holed Beads
Optional: Jewelry Closure Findings (2 jump rings, 1 lobster claw clasp, and 2 end caps)
FINISHED MEASUREMENTS
Hangs approx 10 ½” long, with a 21″ circumference — Or desired length
DIRECTIONS
Using rope, lucet, and leaving a 6″ tail, use Method #2 (in video above) to make an 8″ cord.
Fasten off, leaving a 6″ tail.
NOTE: If you’re not using jewelry findings, leave longer tails to allow for them to be knotted as well as long enough to fit over one’s head.
Make a simple knot at one end of cord. Repeat for opposite side.
Slide a bead onto tail so it’s nestled against the knot; tie another knot to secure. Repeat for opposite side.
Pro Tip: Can’t find wooden beads with large enough to slide over rope? No problem! Just enlarge the hole using a drill and the appropriate-sized bit for rope you’re using!
Attach jewelry findings, or knot to create a necklace loop.
That’s all there is to it. Fun, quick, and makes a great gift, too!
Try dyeing the rope before you knit with it, or dip dyeing the finished necklace for added, unique coolness!
Don’t have a Lucet? I’ve got you. Order one from my YarnYAY! shop here!
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January 27, 2020
Tips for Stranded Knitting
Tips for Stranded Knitting
This week on Ask Me Monday we chat stranded knitting like that called for in the Teas (from the Gaelic word meanting to heat or warmth) Snood from my book, The Knit Vibe. This beautiful accessory was designed by Tanis Gray, an expert in the subject of Fair Isle and other stranded knitting techniques, who has provided us with her Top 3 Tips for Stranded Knitting. I share those with you, and more. Enjoy!
This episode of Ask Me Monday is sponsored by Knitter’s Pride/ KnitPro
See more KP products during “Vic’s Tips” segments of The Knit Show!
Featured product: Knitter’s Pride Ginger Interchangeable Needle Set
Tips for Stranded Knitting: Watch & Learn
Vic’s Tip: When choosing yarn for a stranded colorwork project, be sure to choose smooth, twisted or single-ply yarns. Yarns with too much texture, or much halo (that’s the fuziness you see on fibers lke mohair and angora) will get in the way of the clarity of the pattern.
Tips for Stranded Knitting from Teas Snood Designer Tanis Gray
1. Choose highly contrasting colors. Colors that are too similar in shade, tint, or tone will read as “muddy” and won’t be easily visible in the finished project. It’ll also make it a more difficult knitting experience if you have trouble differentiating the colors.
2. Be mindful of puckering. Contrary to popular belief, no, that won’t “block right out!” Spread the stitches apart a bit on your right hand needle as you’re coming up on knitting them to build in some breathing room. If that’s not enough, go up a needle size.
3. Experiment with your knitting style! If you’ve never knit continental or haven’t tried English knitting, don’t fear the combo method! Combination knitting is having your right hand knit English style, or “throw,” and your left hand knitting continental or “European” style. Combo is more efficient and the ultimate goal for any colorwork knitter, but don’t fret if you don’t pick it up right away. It’s something to build up to!
Teas Snood: Knit It!
Put your skills to work by making the Teas Snood by Tanis Gray from my book, The Knit Vibe, available in our YarnYAY! shop, on Amazon or wherever you get your books!
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