Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Staff picks: My Audrey Mitts.

It's that time of year again.  The holiday stitching rush has begun.  To help you out, we thought we'd share some of the Loops Troops' favorite "staff picks" for yarns and projects this season.

I'll go first.  Because, well, I can. 

But first, a disclaimer:  If you're someone who might possibly be on my personal gift list, please stop reading now.  Please.  It's so much more fun for both of us when you're surprised.

So this year, I'm obsessed with these Audrey Gloves.  Not only does it call for 100% cashmere, the perfect gifting fiber, but the pattern is easy.  Seriously easy.  Way easier than they look.  And fast.  Seriously fast.

I just got back from New York City, and I managed to get one mitt done on each leg of the flight.  On the last leg (Detroit to Tulsa), I decided to take some lovely step-by-step, in-flight pictures to show you exactly how easy these are.

Step 1:  Make a rectangle.  There are two little rows of seed stitch.  And there is a twisted rib stitch, but if for some reason that freaks you out, just do plain 1x1 rib stitch. 


Step 2: Seam up one end.  There's no pesky thumb gusset to deal with.  This is my favorite cheater way of making a thumb hole.


Step 3: Seam up the other end.  See?  A thumb hole.


Step 4:  Make a smaller rectangle.  Position it where you want it.  I experimented a bit with this.  (Okay, I didn't follow directions well and sometimes positioned it wherever I wanted it, but it turned out ok.  Full disclosure.)


Step 5:  Make a third, tiny rectangle.  


Step 6: Sew the tiny rectangle in place to make a bow.  It's not a science.  Just get it on there.


Step 7:  Done!  Now make another one!  These are so much fun, I experienced little to no "second mitt syndrome."


In fact, I made 3 pairs on the trip!


On the left:  Jade Sapphire 8-Ply.  In the middle, Lobster Pot Cashmere.  On the right, Jade Sapphire Handspun (less stitch definition but oh-my-so-soft).  Each pair takes just one skein.  You can buy the Jade Sapphire versions as kits, or you can get the Lobster Pot here and ask us to add on a pattern to your order for $5.99.  

And guess what else?  For you overachievers, we have a matching hat pattern!  YAY!

- Shelley
shop online at loopsknitting.com
 

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