Boob Tube and Dred Tamer.

Here are two very current project ideas. If you're not quite brave enough to wear them yourself, you'll at least feel extremely hip while knitting them for the fashionistas (and/or rastafarians) in your life.

The first is a an updated "boob tube" knit by the fabulous Kendall.

And check out the very victorian back:

The pattern is from Magknits, a great free pattern website ala Knitty. Click here for the pattern. The pattern calls for Rowan 4 Ply Cotton, but Kendall used Rowan Cotton Glace instead. According to Kendall, "From what I can tell, the yarns are the same except Cotton Glace is mercerized. It took seven skeins. Six different colors, and an additional skein of the main color. The patern has optional straps if you want to add them."

Kendall also came up with an unconventional, yet ingenious way to carry the different colors. click here to read all about it.

Next up is Karen R.'s "Panta" - the Finnish word for headband. Karen made this for a friend who wanted a neat way to dress his dreadlocks. But wide headbands have made a big comeback across all demographics, thanks to Desperate Housewives and Nancy Drew (I saw the movie this past weekend and even my 9-year-old recognized the bad editing and lackluster acting - but boy, the fashions were cute. Too bad I didn't spot any handknits to replicate). Anyhow, here's Karen's Panta:

Karen was kind enough to provide yet another free pattern link! She used Muench/GGH Safari, a terrific linen blend in a gorgeous subtle multi green. FYI, Safari is a great substitute for Louet Euroflax Sportweight Linen, which we also carry in-store.

Wow, this entry has been chock-full of freebies and goodies and other "ies." Do you have a friend who would enjoy our blog? Send them a link today so they can join in the Loopy-ness!

- Shelley
shop online at loopsknitting.com