Crazy for Ewe (Wool)

These days I am crazy over buying wool. Despite the fact that I am not able to finish knitting them fast enough, I have been crazily stocking them up! Reason is because I simply cant resist them! Just asked J who came back from Australia to help buy some more Aussie wool for me. Got them at some real bargains @ A$2 (approx S$2.70) per ball! Some of the more interesting colours cost A$2.80 per ball. Its still a great buy! Wonder if its because wool costs less in Australia than here in Singapore. Got to ask her to get some more wool next time ...

Long Awaited Knitting Books

Finally! They are here! The 3 knitting books that I ordered from Amazon... Hooray they are finally here!! The books are "Knitting over the Edge", "Last-Minute Knitted Gifts" and "Knitalong - Celebrating the Tradition of Knitting Together".

1. Really like this Nicky Epstein book "Knitting Over the Edge" I borrowed from library so much that I had to get my hands on it. It is probably a knitter's collector item, as the book is just a collection of all the nice stitches for unique ribs, cords, appliques and over 350 decorative borders! In case I need some nice knit border inspirations, this book will probably do just fine! Having read reviews that her first collection "Knitting On the Edge" was filled with errors, I understand this second book is a better compiled collection. It has gotten rave reviews so far!

2. Joelle Hoverson's (owner of Purl) "Last-Minute Knitted Gifts" is a collection of some simple to do knit gifts that you can accomplish between 2-8 hours. This will be handy guide to some last minute gifts you need to do during special occasions. I especially like the kerchief scarf and the lovable little soft toys! The layout and photos in this book is also another great reason why you have to own it.

3. The 3rd book by Larissa Brown "Knitalong" is another collectible item I thought I need to have. Bought just to recognise Larissa's effort and the knitalongs that she has been organising all this while. I have been a follower of her blog "Stitch Marker" - getting tips from her online knit diary. This one is a real pleasure.

Away in Bangkok, Thailand

Its been a busy month and I did not even get to update my blog since so many weeks passed! Had a short break at Bangkok, Thailand last week and did not get to touch any of my knitting for this while. Decided against bringing my needles on board the plane, as I really do not know whether they are allowed given the strict flight restrictions (plus I was taking a budget airline and you never know they may ask you to dump your needles and wool before you board the plane at the security checkpoint) - I wouldnt risk my knitting stuff like this!

Visited Bangkok famous Chatuchak Weekend Market (or JJ market as affectionately known) where I spotted some clever handcrafters churning out nice wool stuff e.g. hats and toys. These markets are the testbed and grounds of many talented new crafters & ingenious people, so beware and take a look while you are there in the country!

Knitting books

Found some great knitting books by Nicky Epstein at the Singapore Library. I think these are not new books but they are really a great reference for starter knitter like me! The book compiles lovely patterns/stitches with all their instructions. Liked it so much that I made an order for it with Amazon.

The titles were "Knitting On the Edge" and

and "Knitting Over the Edge".

From Posie

I am so excited ! I just received the package from Posie "Rosy Little Things" - the Country Girl Clothespin Doll Kit ! Lovely stuff containing the doll pins, pin stands, head beads, assorted cloth materials, acrylic paints varnish set among other stuff including instructional notes to help me hand make 5 cute little dolls. The overseas package costs me US$38 but I cant resist it as the dolls look so adorable ! Got to get it moving after I finish my blue socks ...

Shawl inspirations

Visited one of the events by Style:Nordic at La Salle School of Design last week during the Singapore Fashion Week held in Singapore from 28 March - 6 April 2008. Was delighted to have met Monica, founder of Freja Designs at the event! Freja Designs showcases many lovely designs on shawl and jewelleries from Scandinavia of which many adore. See above simply gorgeous piece of art - a handmade shawl !

First Blue Sock Part 1

My first attempt at making my first sock is almost 80% done! How happy I am! Can you spot the heel already done up? Didnt know it could be this easy. Now I still have to shape the front toes of the first sock then to sew them up and it shall be completed! Just cant wait to see my other half completed as well... and see my first pair of socks done up!! *Applause please as an encouragement to a novice*