Convert DPN's to Mini Straight Needles

Here's an idea. I'm not sure if it's an original one, but since I just thought it up, it feels original to me.

I am working on a small project at the moment, and didn't want to use unwieldy long needles, so I used a couple of those Clover point protectors to turn my 8-inch DPN's into small knitting needles. In lieu of buying these, you could use two rubber bands wound around one end. It sure has made this project easier to handle and I don't worry about the stitches falling off the end.

~ Christine

What a Tassle!

Nothing finishes off a hat design like a jaunty tassle at the top. I've just updated our website with instructions on how to make a tassle for your hat, complete with detailed photos.

Go to Tassle Instructions

Across the Pacific, and Then Some

Dear Lynn,

I wish I could be closer to you too. Knitting alone is still great, but it's much more fun with someone who is as mad about knitting as I am. Tom would have to tell us to 'go to bed!', like bad kids staying up too late.

As you head into a glorious summer in Colorado, the temperatures are starting to drop here in New Zealand and winter is creeping up on us. No complaints coming from me though, as we were blessed with an amazing warm and sunny summer and autumn. Maybe winter won't be so cold this time. Besides, as Antarcticans, we aren't allowed to be cold! ha ha!

I am so happy to be starting up Antarctica Knitters with you. This has been something we've thought about for a long time and now it's a reality. I think you and I have lots to share with people about our knitting and our experiences in life. You are right, knit on through all crises! Life is not perfect, but I think knitting gives us the perfect outlet for our creativity: colorful, portable, soft and warm and ultimately functional! 

I like to think that if the world were overtaken by a Zombie apocalypse and we ended up in a small band of humans fighting for survival, that we'd be an important part of the community, madly knitting clothes to keep our fellow companions warm.

Lynn, you have been such an important part of my life and you are a dear friend. I really think you are big part of the knitter I am today. You were there when I made my first sweater and cut my first steek. You were more nervous than I was! It was in the middle of an Antarctic winter, cold and dark 24/7. I had an idea for a great layering cardigan. Even though I'd never knit a sweater before, you encouraged me to give it a try and then stood by and guided me every step of the way. It turned out beautifully!

Right now, I am working on a new pattern for the website, testing it so it turns out great for anyone who knits it. 

And, although I really don't like having lots of projects working at once, I have started a Lacy Suede Poncho, a free pattern in Lion's Brand suede yarn, Moonshadow (unfortunately discontinued, but you can still get it on eBay). Did you know ponchos are back IN?

And every morning, when I wander in to the kitchen for a cuppa tea, I pass this...

...and it brings me great joy. I can't wait to unite this box of yarn with my stash at home. 

I LOVE your new hat idea in Noro! I can't wait to give it a try. I've got a few ideas cooking up in my brain as well. Not enough time in a day, is there?

Love, Christine

You in New Zealand, Me in Colorado

Dear Christine,

I wish you were in the States so we could "stitch n sip" in the same room.  Our Skype calls are fun and seeing you on the computer screen makes me want to climb in and knit along with you.  Oh, to be in beautiful New Zealand!  I'm with you in spirit.

Thankfully, you've had the chance to be on the North Island in Wellington for the last month.  I bet it's a joy to be away from the rebuilding efforts of Christchurch.  Two years after the earthquake, you deserve a break from the headaches of aftershocks, reconstruction noise and road work.  You are a trooper.  I love that you and your hubby brought your kitty with you. 

I am working on staying focused in my knitterly endeavors, knitting on one project for a bit, then switching to another project for a little while.  When I go back to the former knitting project and knit some more, I'm re-energized to keep knitting.  It seems to be working to keep me challenged with my short attention span.  I'm so into hats, hats, hats these days.  There are so many different ways to design and construct a hat!

Stay warm in your austral winter, drink lots of tea, and as Elizabeth Zimmerman said "Knit on, through all crises!"  We are enjoying sunshine and watching the trees fill out in glorious GREEN here in Colorado on the Western side of the Rockies.  And you know how much Winterovers* love green growing things.

I'm working on a new hat that just needs the crown knitted on and maybe buttons on the side.

Here's my "get Lynn organized" idea:  stitch markers and coil-less safety pins wrangled into order on a bobby pin.

Love, Lynn

*Winterovers are people who spend the austral winter on "the Ice" during the long, dark months from March through September.