I received my latest Vogue Knitting last week. Lots of cold weather-friendly projects in there. Here’s a few highlights for your enjoyment… Do you have favorite magazines? I like Vogue for inspiration, but for classic patterns that last beyond the season, I tend to favor Interweave Knits. However, I love the articles in VK and as an inspiration source, it’s great. If you’ve already received this issue, tell me what you think! Images: Vogue Knitting [Read more]

Well before the Internet came along and encouraged a virtual togetherness among crafters, people routinely knitted, quilted, tatted and crocheted in groups. Your local yarn shop may have a regular day or evening when crafters get together, over food, fun and fiber. Do you enjoy craft groups? Do you belong to one at your LYS or do you attend one in someone’s home? If so, what do you like best about getting together with like-minded people? Image: Photos.com [Read more]

If you design projects and following charts is a big part of a particular pattern, using graph paper is important. Now you can always go to an office supply store and get what they have…or you can print your own, created to the exact specifications you need. ABCs of Knitting provides a free graph paper designer that allows you to input the number of stitches and rows you need. You print it out in a PDF format and voila — easy charts that make your pattern look professional and easy to follow! [Read more]

I know we have a way to go before February 14, but if you want to make something for your sweetie, you have to plan ahead. Here are some links to FREE patterns, all of them with a heart motif of one kind or another: Wee hearts Valentine cloth Seven of hearts socks Hearts dishcloth Hot pad Chain of hearts bookmark Lattice hearts dishcloth Enjoy! [Read more]

Attention, aspiring designers! AslanTrends has announced their first knitting challenge 2009. I’m giving you this much notice (you have until August 10 to get your entry forms and items submitted) because you’ll need to plan; plans may change; you might need to start over, etc. You can enter in one of two categories: Full-size garments or afghans Accessories-sized hats, scarves, bags, baby blankets What can you win? Prizes include cash, yarn and a year’s subscription to Vogue Knitting magazine. Visit the AslanTrends site for entry forms and official rules to the contest. Good luck! Image: stock.xchng [Read more]