2010-07-30T06:07:34Z Zoya Woolwitch Copyright 2010, Zoya Woolwitch SPHPBLOG by Alice Seidel

Time certainly does fly! Even though we can't see time, or touch it, we know it has wings! Here it is almost Christmas, and Hanukkah is a mere week and a half away! Oh - what to knit in a hurry!

If you're like me, you tend to do some holiday things ahead of time, and some tasks are left for "when I have more time." Right! Little, easy knitted gifts can be worked up in no time, and are always appreciated by whomever is lucky enough to receive them. So, the next time you are sitting in front of the TV, get knitting!

For my last easy-as-pie knitting gift, I have a special Christmas pattern. It's for a knitted stocking ornament and can be knit in a few hours. Use them on your tree or for package decorations! Loop a dozen or so together for a merry Christmas garland. Whatever you can think up, you can't go wrong.

I know you have lots of leftover yarn just waiting to be used somewhere! Well, here's a great way to put that yarn to good use.

Here's the pattern:

Knitted Stocking Ornament

Size 2 needles, small amounts of red, white and/or green yarn. (If size 2 is too small, go up a size or two.) Cast on 18 stitches using the white yarn. Knit one row, purl one row, knit one row. Cut the white yarn leaving enough yarn to sew up the white part or make a loop.

Using the red or the green yarn, beginning with a row of knit stitches, knit twelve rows of stockinette stitch. The twelfth row should be a purl row. 13th Row: Knit across twelve stitches. Turn the work and purl across six stitches. Work nine more rows on the center six stitches.

The last row will be knit. With the right side facing you, pick up and knit five stitches down the side of the "foot". Knit the six stitches to the end of the row.

Turn the work. Knit across the six stitches at the beginning of the row, the five stitches that you just picked up and knit and the six "middle" stitches.

Pick up and knit five stitches on the remaining side of the "foot". Knit across the last six stitches. 28 stitches should be on the needle. Knit in garter stitch for three more rows.

The last row: Knit across fourteen stitches. Turn the halves of the sock right sides together.

Weave the stitches together and sew up the back of the stocking. Make a loop and hang it up.

These stockings are easy to knit, and you can make as many as you like! These are also great for children or small groups and for those non-knitters in your life, they will always be amazed at what knitting talent you have!

About the Author

Keep YOUR knitting on the "Cutting Edge" with FREE patterns. The place where smart knitters gather resources and share stories. FREE Details ==> http://www.theknitstitch.com ]]> http://www.hautecoutureknitting.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry070502-133826 2007-05-02T00:00:00Z 2007-05-02T00:00:00Z by Rachael Cleipher

Every woman needs to set aside time each week to do things simply because she enjoys them. Life is far too stressful to be spent only on tasks that give productive results. For many women, arts and crafts is a great way to enjoy a few hours and to leave the pressures of life behind.

I guarentee that no matter what kinds of arts and crafts interest you, there are many ways to enjoy them and even learn new arts and crafts. If you have the time and a little bit of extra money, I'd suggest singing up for an arts and crafts class. Look in the newspaper or do an online search for arts and crafts classes in your area. Grab a friend and try out a new class together. Many local arts and crafts shops will offer classes where you can learn a new skill in just a couple of hours a week. Go out on a limb and try something you have never done before. Have you always wanted to knit? Get to an arts and crafts store and take a knitting class.

For women who know all there is to know about arts and crafts, consider opening your home and hosting an arts and crafts class for neighbors and friends once a week. Allow women to gather and enjoy the pleasure of teaching them a new skill or hobby. You will enjoy the time spent with other women. And what a blessing to be able to share your talents with others.

If you do not have the time or money to enroll or host an arts and crafts class, you can still learn and enjoy new skills. Take some time to visit a library or bookstore and find a book that teaches the skill you want to learn. No woman should miss out on the fun and relaxation of arts and crafts simply because of money. Make some time in your schedule each week just to get away and learn about new arts and crafts until you can focus in on one that you want to learn. You can also search the internet for resources on many arts and crafts.

A great thing about spending your free time doing arts and crafts is that you can beautify your home and prepare amazing gifts at the same time. Many hobbies are an end in themselves, but with arts and crafts you get to keep something amazing each time you create. Think about all of the birthday gifts or gifts for holidays that you could make rather than purchase. You will have fun, enjoy relaxing, and save money on gifts all at the same time.

Get out and make arts and crafts a part of your busy life. The relaxation and fun will be worth it.

About the Author

Rachael Cleipher has recently adding knitting and sewing to her list of arts and crafts skills. She thinks every woman should take time for things they love. See more at www.artsandcraftshelp.info ]]> http://www.hautecoutureknitting.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry070430-133052 2007-04-30T00:00:00Z 2007-04-30T00:00:00Z by The Knitting Nova

I wanted to set out some basic knitting instructions as a refresher so here it is. All knitting instructions use basically two stitches, the knit stitch and the purl stitch. Once you know these two knitting essentials you will be able to follow most knitting instructions which are just combinations or variations of these two knitting instruction stitches.

Knitting Instructions for the Knit Stitch Once you have cast on, hold the knitting needle with the cast on stitches in your left hand. Push the point of the right knitting needle in between the front of the first and second stitches, pointing the knitting needle to the right to feed the point through the first stitch keeping it under the left needle. The knitting yarn should be at the back of the work. Loop the knitting yarn around the right knitting needle from back to front, letting the knitting yarn rest between the needles. Catch the knitting yarn on the end on the right knitting needle and pull it through the first stitch to the front of the work. Slip the old stitch off the left needle. The new stitch is now on the right needle. Now you are getting the hang of the knitting instructions. It is a good idea to keep the knitting yarn draped over the right forefinger, this keeps it to the back of the work too. Repeat this process until all stitches are on the right knitting needle. Now count the stitches, if they are all there, turn the right knitting needle around and put it in the left hand. This is the first row from your knitting instructions. The knitting yarn will look like it is at the front and you will now take it to the back and start the second row of transferring stitches to the empty right needle.

Knitting Instructions for the Purl Stitch The Purl stitch will also be in any knitting instructions. Start with the knitting needle with the cast on stitches in your left hand. Your knitting yarn will be hanging in front. Push point of right knitting needle into the front of the first stitch from right to left. Wrap the knitting yarn around the tip of the right knitting needle, crossing over the two needles and hanging once again in front. Slide the right knitting needle down and back taking the new loop of knitting yarn from front to back, through the old stitch. Slip the old stitch off the left knitting needle. If you have followed the knitting instructions you now have a stitch in purl on the right knitting needle and the yarn is hanging, once again, in the front. Repeat this process until all stitches are on the right knitting needle. Now count the stitches to make sure you haven't dropped any and turn the work around putting the knitting needle with the stitches on in your left hand to start the next row.

I hope you could follow my knitting instructions. This is my version of knitting instructions for the two basic knitting stitches but I have found that it is very hard to use a few written knitting instructions. I have found a great book on the subject, much more in depth than I can be. It really helped me improve my knitting with advice on free knitting patterns, knitting instructions, all the knitting essentials. You can find it here. I really suggest you take a look. Good luck with your knitting. Knitting Instructions

About the Author

I love knitting and also love to teach. Now I also love to blog. I have been knitting for 30 years and have taught many young relatives how knitting is easy and fun. You can find more information on my blog at http://knitting-instruction.blogspot.com ]]> http://www.hautecoutureknitting.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry070427-121227 2007-04-27T00:00:00Z 2007-04-27T00:00:00Z by Mary Bailis

With cold weather upon us, it's time to update your wardrobe with a new gorgeous knit scarf. They are a hot item for the season and what a great looking accessory item to keep you warm. Look for them in so many different yarns, colors and styles. This is the year for the knit scarves so put away the old plain Jane's back in storage. The question is, do you buy one or make your own.

Personally, I like the hand made one's made by yours truly, myself. I enjoy having that one of a kind accessory item that looks great. With the huge selection of beautiful yarns out there I just had to pick up my knitting needles and dust them off. They've been non-stop ever since. You can find yarn at all the local craft store's; AC Moore, Jo-Anne Fabrics, Michael's to name a few as well as their websites. Some of them will offer classes, or will have representative's near the yarn aisle to help you get started and answer any questions. All the top yarn companies have very informative website's to help you get started also. They have an amazing selection of free, yes free patterns that you can print off and use at your disposal. Lion Brand, http://www.lionbrand.com even has a how to section. I forgot how to "cast off" and it has step by step instructions that set me on my way. All the patterns have very clear instructions on how to knit or crochet and what supplies to purchase. I have made several myself and found them all very easy to follow. They even have the famous Martha Stewart Poncho pattern available online. I wanted one and don't crochet so I forwarded the pattern to my mother. She so graciously made some for me. I get endless compliments whenever I wear it. I have now ventured off making my own patterns. What can I say, I've got the knitting bug or should I say yarn bug! It's the yarns that pull you in to buying so much. There really is an amazing selection out there. You can find; cashmere, wool, fun fur, metallics, sequence, curly, fuzzy, you name it they have it. So pick up those knitting needles and get making those scarves. You'll get the bug too and will end up making them for everyone you know!

For those of you who have no interest in making a scarf or just don't have the knack for it, there is still hope. Many stores offer a decent selection of knit scarves but you will find a limited selection in the yarn styles. I recommend attending one of the many craft fairs being offered in your area. To look for top quality vendors, look for the juried shows or ones that are very selective in choosing their vendors. You will definitely get a higher quality of vendors and therefore a higher quality of products. There are some very artistic and talented knitters out there selling their wares. Artistic people not only like to make great products but really like selling them to others to enjoy. I get excited when someone buy's one of my scarves and can't wait to wear it. They always come back for more to buy as gifts to share their great find. Another place to shop for knit scarves is at your local art galleries. They consign artist work and stock plenty of gift items as well as artwork. They will have a high quality of vendors. But do hurry, the stores currently are clearing out their winter merchandise for Spring clothing.

Get a gorgeous knit scarf while you can or get those knitting needles going and enjoy getting the knitting but!

About the Author

Mary Bailis is a designer and owner of http://www.AlexiHandbags.com an online custom handbag and scarf boutique. Her designs were originally shown in exclusive art shows and trunk shows. Customer demand brought forth the website. She enjoys reading, being creative, exercising, nature and spending as much time with her three beautiful children.]]> http://www.hautecoutureknitting.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry070424-111332 2007-04-24T00:00:00Z 2007-04-24T00:00:00Z by Isaac Grauke

San Francisco Knitting Mills is a division of School Apparel, Inc. For over 25 years, SFKM sweaters and knits have been a leader in casual and career apparel.

SFKM exclusively features A+ Fabrics for all their garments. A+ Fabrics are engineered and designed specifically for SFKM to maximize performance. It is the essential element for the durability and top quality of their garments, while providing you with total comfort and a fashionable appearance.

Why do FedEx, UPS, Disney and the U.S. Postal Service wear their products? Because they want a product they know they can depend on. One that's well-built by an American company whose only business is making career apparel and uniforms, for all kinds of businesses.

They have been manufacturing goods since 1976. With that kind of experience they are on the cutting edge of developing materials that perform and use manufacturing methods that last. That's why they offer a "Performance Guarantee"™ on everything they make. If any garment does not stand up to one year of normal wear, they'll replace it. It's that simple. That is their commitment to you.

When you buy from SFKM, you don't just buy a product - you buy a company; A company made up with highly experienced and dedicated people. Their "In Stock" products are available to you with immediate delivery throughout America. Their stock program is made up of a comprehensive product line to fulfill your uniform, dress code or business casual requirements year round.

SFKM has been a family owned business for 25 years with quality apparel as their only business. They make most of their clothes right here in the USA, in their plant, where quality control and value have real meaning. Consider an SFKM sweater for your employees.

About the Author

Isaac Grauke is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Hall Closet Uniforms and Apparel, which specializes in SFKM Sweaters
http://www.hallclosetuniforms.com/pages ... TextID=110 ]]> http://www.hautecoutureknitting.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry070421-104859 2007-04-21T00:00:00Z 2007-04-21T00:00:00Z by Maddy Cranley

A recent welcome break in routine saw me on an airplane to Philadelphia, not everyone's idea of a restful spot, but I happen to like the big city. Philadelphia, with its wonderful historical sites comfortably settled in a busy urban center, is a rather pleasant venue in which to spend a few days. When I travel, with the exception of a long car journey, I purposely do not take along any kind of knitting or craft work. Since I have the distinct pleasure of blurred boundaries between everyday work and hobbies, I deliberately leave needles and yarn at home just to give my hands a break and allow my mind to focus on any novel ideas lurking in the marketplace. There is supposedly an increase in commuter knitting - crafters taking along their projects while they travel to and fro. I decided to make a concentrated effort to notice if there was any commuter crafting happening on the route I was going to travel. I was looking not just for knitting but any type of craft that could be managed in the lap on a wiggling train or swerving bus.

I have had some interesting commuter crafting experiences in the past. Sitting amid the bustle and confusion while waiting for a flight in the San Francisco airport, I once learned the craft of bead weaving. I spotted a woman picking out beads from a boxful beside her and with a needle and thread, fashioning an extraordinary necklace. I approached her, asking if she would mind telling me what she was doing. I was familiar with beading methods but not this one. While we waited, she generously proceeded to teach me the method of this craft. Our flights were soon called and we parted ways. I couldn't wait to get home and attack my stash of beads. I immediately practiced what she had taught me and I still dabble in this method of beading. Another time at Chicago O'Hare, I sat near a woman working on a quilting project. We began a conversation and she kindly gave me a list of great quilting books that she had found helpful. Although I must admit that I have yet to take up quilting on a serious level, I will always have that memory and list of books as an inspiration to start. Both of these women were undoubtedly organized and comfortable while crafting in that hectic environment.

There is no doubt that comfort is a big factor. You must be relaxed in a seat or situation that suits your knitting style. If you knit with elbows that stick out like penguin flippers, you are going to feel restricted. If you have more of a closed-wing approach, narrow seating and cramped rows on the airplanes will likely not bother you. While being careful not to poke a seatmate, a few prayers for a minimum of air pockets and potholes would not go amiss. Anticipating the motion of your chosen chariot, you will become more able to weather the bumps and grinds of the road or rail and the stitches will stay on track.

Another point is that you have to be very organized. You must make sure that you pack accessories that you may need along with your needles and yarn. A good knitting bag is essential and should certainly not be one of those popular crocheted pouches, allowing needles to poke through the sides and possibly those of your fellow passenger. The printed pattern should be small enough to not slide off your lap but with print large enough to avoid peering or squinting at graphs or complicated stitch sequences. Stitch markers and counters are a must to keep your place when your flight is called or your stop is reached.

So did I see anyone doing anything? Nothing at all. With all the thousands of people I encountered or passed in that week, no one was doing anything of a crafting nature. This experience has made me have a change of heart. Just to contribute to keeping a public face on the craft of knitting, not to mention the completion of a few more projects, I have decided to become more organized for the next trip and take along some knitting. With a little planning for comfort and convenience, my journeys can become roads less unravelled!

About the Author

Maddy Cranley is a professional knitwear designer, who has created exclusive designs for knitting and craft magazines, authored and published three books on the subject of creating felt garments and projects from handknitting, and produces an ever-growing line of maddy laine handknitting patterns. For additional information, see http://www.maddycraft.com
© 2003
mcranley@maddycraft.com ]]> http://www.hautecoutureknitting.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry070418-094338 2007-04-18T00:00:00Z 2007-04-18T00:00:00Z by Alice Seidel

Without us even realizing it, November is quickly passing us by! If you are truly stumped as to what to give everyone this Christmas, fear not! I am here with some knitting suggestions.

In my three previous articles, I have given you some ideas for scarves, ribbon bracelets, and placemats. Just these simple patterns, can be transformed into dozens of one-of-a-kind knitting creations! In fact, you could outfit the entire family and close friends, with some of the nicest gifts they will ever receive!

And to add to our collection, this article will be about knitting baby washcloths. Usually, whenever we think about baby gifts, it's off to the mall we go, to find the latest in infant accessories. But, did you know, you can knit your own baby creations? They will be as soft and cuddly as anything you can find in a store, and, best of all, will be made with love!

Knitting baby items are just so easy to do, and so unexpected! Traditionally, when putting together gifts for baby, the first things you think about are layettes, blankets, and booties. So, now it's time to expand on this theme.

Whenever I knit anything for babies, I love the yarn to be soft and pliable. For washcloths, use a cotton yarn. They are totally washable, and will hold up nicely.

In a few stores, I have also seen terrycloth yarn, which is another great idea for baby items. But, for the baby washcloths that I knit up, the cotton yarn is the best yarn to use. Sugar 'n Cream, Peaches 'n Cream or Cotton Tots are my recommendations for the best cotton yarn to knit with.

Use a size 6 straight needle, and, really, no gauge is necessary. Here is the pattern:

Baby Washcloth Cast on 37 stitches. Knit four rows.

Rows 1 and 5 (RS): K5, *p3, k5; repeat from * to end. Rows 2 and 4 : P5, *k3, p5; repeat from * to end. Row 3: K5, *p1, yo, p2tog, k5; repeat from * to end. Row 6: Purl. Rows 7 and 11: K1, *p3, k5; repeat from * , end last repeat k1. Rows 8 and 10: P1, *k3, p5; repeat from * end last repeat p1. Row 9: K1, *p1, yo, p2tog, k5; repeat from * , end last repeat k1. Row 12:Purl.

Repeat these 12 rows 4 or 5 times more, until desired length. Knit four rows. Bind off all stitches.

There you have it, simple, yet very unique, and sure to please! And, with all the colors and color combinations, you will have a blast knitting washcloths for little nieces and nephews, your friends, and babies-in-waiting! Gifts such as these, are always appreciated, and combine them with baby bottles, rattles, toys, or receiving blankets, and you'll have a winner every time!

Remember, we have one more "easy-as-pie knitting gift" to go, and you will love it! 'Til next week, get knitting!

About the Author

Keep YOUR knitting on the "Cutting Edge" with FREE patterns. The place where smart knitters gather resources and share stories. FREE Details ==> http://www.theknitstitch.com ]]> http://www.hautecoutureknitting.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry070329-144353 2007-03-29T00:00:00Z 2007-03-29T00:00:00Z by Gray Rollins

Knitting is a way to use needles to weave yarn together to make an object. Knitting is a great practical skill to have to make clothing or household items. It is also a very relaxing pastime. Knitting your own pieces can be very rewarding. It's fun to see your efforts come to fruition with a completed piece.

If you are interested in starting to knit, you first need to get some basic supplies and then need to learn to create basic stitches. You will need two knitting needles and some yarn in a color of your choosing. Knitting needles should be of medium size to start as it may be awkward to learn using small or oversized needles. Size 8 needles are good size to start with. Use a basic yarn for your first project. Although it's likely you will be tempted by all the very pretty and fancy yarns available, you need to start with a basic yarn so you can easily see your stitches. It will make learning much easier.

You will also need a pattern to create whatever you'd like. It is advisable to start off with an easy project to learn the basics before moving on to something more complicated like knitting a sweater. My first knitting project was a dishcloth. To learn, you may want to read on the Internet or get some books with illustrations. Many community centers also offer classes for an inexpensive way to get introduced to knitting. I took a class at my local crafts store. The class was reasonable and I received a discount on supplies.

To start, make sure you have ample lighting. Stitching can be small so you do not want to strain your eyes. Remember that this is a relaxing art form. Hold the needles in a manner which is most comfortable to you. This may be awkward at first but you'll soon get the hang of it. You will then need to learn to cast on, which is the stitch to start knitting. Then, you will learn the knit stitch and purl stitch, the two basic stitches in knitting. Finally you will learn to bind off which is the way to complete your work.

When working with yarn, try starting from the inside out. This will help keep the yarn from rolling away from you. Stay organized while knitting. Using containers will help organize all your tools. As you accumulate different yarns, keep track of cleaning instructions. A good way to do that is to maintain a journal of the yarns with care instructions. As you complete a project, write it down next to the yarns used so you can easily refer to it. Knitting needles should be organized by size so they are easily accessible for each project. To organize yarns, use empty butter tubs with a hole in the middle. String the end piece through the hole and knit. This will keep the yarn separated and untangled.

Knitting is a highly relaxing form of art. As you continue to learn, you'll be able to accomplish many different types of work from clothing to blankets. Seeing the completed project that you worked so hard on can be a rewarding accomplishment. Start with easy patterns and increase in skill level as you become more comfortable. The most important part, though, is to have fun.

About the Author

Gray Rollins is a featured writer for YourKnitting.com. To learn more about how to knit and for knitting instructions, please visit us.
http://www.yourknitting.com/knittinginstructions/ ]]> http://www.hautecoutureknitting.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry070326-173717 2007-03-26T00:00:00Z 2007-03-26T00:00:00Z by Joshu Crossman

Knitting is a creative work of art. It is a method of interlocking a series of loops of yarn or thread to construct a fabric. Beautiful patterns can be used for knitting fashionable and beautiful clothings, in various colors and styles.

Knitting is certainly fun, if you try your hand at it.

The origin of knitting activity can be traced back to the 4th or 5th century BC. From the court of King Henry VII to Charles I, knitted patterns were quite popular. Royal knitters spinned the rare knitting patterns for the kings, and the Queens to be worn on the special occasions. From the courts of king, knitted clothes reached the common people soon. In fact knitting has largely been the occupation of the shepherds in the past.

Traditionally, knitting has been done by hand, but it can also be done with the help of modern machines now. In fact hand knitting is a popular pass time activity in many parts of the world. Especially girls in Asian and African countries cherish this art from their childhood to create beautiful clothes such as sweaters, socks, hats and scarves. They also put their hand to creating pretty household items as well.

You can learn the art with the help of free knitting patterns available online as well as in many knitting stores. Materials like plastic strips, ribbon, rope and wire can also be knitted, to create jewelry, bags, art works, bowls and other household items. The range of knitted patterns is never ending. After all, it is all about the knitter's creativity.

If you are looking for really interesting free knitting patterns, the internet is the right place. There are numerous free knitting patterns available in the market as well. For making a search on global patterns you must go online. There are several web-sites offering free knitting patterns. Various artistic designs and quality tips on free knitting patterns are also available there. A few easy knitting patterns and instructions from the net would prove to be beneficial for you.

You can find free knitting patterns for adults, children as well as toddlers. A wide range of clothing, accessories and household items can be made out of knitting art.

There are hundreds of free knitting patterns for adult clothing patterns such as adult sweaters and socks available on the net. Free knitting patterns for interesting motifs are also quite popular among the young girls for beautifying their most basic clothings such as Tees and skirts.

Knitting for babies is done on a wide scale, world wide. Free baby knitting patterns provide ideas and instructions to create really cute patterns. Free patterns can be viewed on baby pullovers, socks, and slippers on the net.

Various free knitting patterns are available for making pretty ponchos. Ponchos have made a comeback this season and knitted ponchos are widely preferred by modern women now. A few popular patterns include mesh-work pattern and open work patterns.

Double rib child's hat, paneled pigtail hat, skater boy hat and ear flap hat are among the popular categories of knitted hats.

Knitted purses and bags are also in vogue. Club bags, pouch bags, cell phone cases and evening bags are on offer as knitted purses and bags. If one wants to knit a beautiful bag with clear knitting instructions, free knitting websites are the right place to find inspiration.

Scarves are a great place to start if you are new to knitting as a hobby. Free knitting patterns on scarves are available as ribbed scarf, checks and eyelets scarf, hooded scarf, reversible scarf and much more. Knitting a scarf is generally easier than knitting sweaters, socks or ponchos and a good place to start for a beginner knitter.

Free knitting patterns can also be used for making hot pads, dishcloths, kitchen towels and face cloths.

The range is never-ending. You just need to carry out an extensive search for interesting free knitting patterns that take your fancy. Knitted clothes and materials definitely add a classy style statement to your wardrobe.

About the Author

Joshu writes articles on a number of different topics. For more information on Knitting please visit http://www.online-knitting-guide.com/knitting/ and for additional Knitting related articles please visit the following article page http://www.online-knitting-guide.com/knitting-articles/ ]]> http://www.hautecoutureknitting.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry070323-083102 2007-03-23T00:00:00Z 2007-03-23T00:00:00Z by Maddy Cranley

There was a front-page headline in the daily newspaper recently that definitely caught my attention. It read, "Needlepoint pirates pillage on Net". To see the subject of needlepoint displayed among world news and political commentary was quite unusual in a big city newspaper. Although, the timing was certainly appropriate. It was in that same week that the Napsters web site was being sued in court for alleged illegal distribution of pop music on the Internet. The newspaper wire service had decided to investigate other flagrant examples of "swapping" commodities and discovered that needlework, particularly cross-stitch had become a target of widespread "sharing" of original and copyrighted designs. This "sharing" for the most part was without benefit to or accompanied by permission of the author. According to this article, one woman is alleged to have 3,000 cross-stitch patterns scanned into her database, is willing to share these patterns with her personal list of several hundred people and is said to operate only one of a number of sites boasting possession of an equally large cache of patterns.

The International Needlework Retailers Guild wants to inform consumers that "sharing" may on the surface appear as a kind or friendly gesture but when it reaches these proportions of volume, it becomes a very ungenerous act to the designer who will receive no compensation from the majority of people who may download their original design. The Guild has recently formed a new committee to deal with copyright issues and as well has started a legal fund in case it becomes necessary to pursue an action through the courts to curb this systemized bootlegging. Jennifer Aikman-Smith, who designs cross-stitch patterns and markets them through her company Dragon Dreams Inc. and is a member of this newly created committee, wants "to educate the public so that they don’t think that this is what is normal or this is what they're entitled to, because there won't be a cross-stitch industry."

Now, we have all likely passed on a recipe or perhaps lent out a knitting pattern book but the issue in the cyber world is that the original physical leaflets are not being shared. Aikman-Smith says, "If you buy a paperback book, you can sell it at a yard sale, you can give it to a friend, you can give it to your church for their rummage sale, but you can't scan it into the Internet and start distributing it for free." This would be an obvious infringement of the copyright. In the case of cross-stitch, these people who have thousands of patterns scanned from original pattern leaflets into their databases, defend their actions by stating their accumulated scans are merely used as a backup source and that they would have to purchase the original pattern as the scanned and printed quality on the home computer is so poor. This reasoning is disputed by Jim Hedgepath, president of Pegasus Originals, Inc., a cross-stitch designing company in Lexington, South Carolina, who says the quality of the new scanners is good enough to print out instructions that can look exactly like the store-bought originals. As well he says of the swappers, "They spend a lot of time teaching each other better scanning techniques." In reply to the excuse that swappers complain of the lack of retail outlets that stock a sufficient variety of patterns, Hedgepath says, "Well, they're killing off the (designers) that are left." With business in his 22-year old company down 40 per cent over the last three years, he will admit that not all of the downturn is due to the Internet swapping. Since needlework projects are hard work and time consuming, people with less available leisure time are looking for more quick and easy projects but he does conclude that the cyber swapping is a big factor in his decreasing sales.

On the one hand, it is wonderful to see such enthusiastic interest in the needlework crafts. On the other hand, if this kind of "swapping" becomes too widespread, creative designers will find other things to do if they are unable to be compensated for their talent. If that happens, all needleworkers will lose as we will miss out on the creativity generated by these designers. Authors of designs and patterns may sometimes offer a free pattern as a promotion to introduce crafters to their pattern line or may allow retailers to do the same but always with the goal to earning an income from their work. As individual customers we can do our part by verifying the sources of the pattern to ensure that copyright is protected and to deal with reputable retailers. At the end of the day, it will benefit us all.

About The Author

Maddy Cranley is a professional knitwear designer, who has created exclusive designs for knitting and craft magazines, authored and published three books on the subject of creating felt garments and projects from handknitting, and produces an ever-growing line of maddy laine handknitting patterns. For additional information, see http://www.maddycraft.com

© 2003

mcranley@maddycraft.com
]]> http://www.hautecoutureknitting.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry070320-131954 2007-03-20T00:00:00Z 2007-03-20T00:00:00Z by Scarf Company

The history of the scarf dates back at least as far as ancient Rome. A linen kerchief known as a sudarium (Latin term for "sweat cloth") was used by the Romans to wipe their necks and faces. The ancient Romans developed the scarf into a diverse men's fashion accessory, whether knotted to a belt or worn around the neck. Of course this style was quickly adopted by women also, and the scarf has since become synonymous with women's fashion.

Experts say that the scarf was historically made of cloth rather than wool and a mark of rank for the warriors of the Chinese Emperor Cheng (Shih Huang Ti). Around the 17th Century however scarves were worn on a wider scale by Croatian Mercenaries - again these were not wool scarves, but ordinary cotton if you were a soldier and the officers wore silk.

It was the French who were so enamoured with these unusual and colourful scarves, that they began to wear them too, calling them cravats, from the Croatian word kravata. It became popular to demonstrate political inclination by the colour of a man's scarf.

In the 19th Century the scarf once again became a fashion accessory for men and the cravat became a staple of every man's wardrobe. From the cravat we have progressed to today's wooley scarves, available in a multitude of colours and designs to compliment the outfits of men, women and children around the world. Scarves made of wool are by far the warmest and most comfortable choice as wool is a natural fibre and allows the skin to breathe at the same time as keeping the cold out.

Recently the scarf has experienced something of a revival, once again becoming a must-have item by women around the world. Head scarves and wraps grow ever popular with society's celebrities and convey elegance and sophistication. Scarves have the advantage of flexibility in how they're worn - around the neck, tied at the wrist, or around the strap of a handbag for example.

The future of scarves looks secure and these fashion items now represent a huge opportunity for exciting use of colours and patterns. Knitting and weaving techniques are developing all the time to cope with the increasing demands of the world's fashion designers.

About the Author

Written on behalf of The Scarf Company - wholesale scarves suppliers to trade, and retailer of women's scarves, and wool scarves for men and children.]]> http://www.hautecoutureknitting.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry070318-131128 2007-03-18T00:00:00Z 2007-03-18T00:00:00Z by Alice Seidel

With Halloween just a memory, Christmas is almost upon us! Nothing seems to be a more appropriate gift than one which is "homemade."

You know, once upon a time that word, "homemade" used to mean something cheap or tacky, or maybe, you didn't have the extra money to buy gifts at the mall. But, that's not the case anymore.

If there can be numerous TV stations dedicated to nothing but crafts, all day long, you know "homemade" is here to stay! Of course, "hand-made" is more the trendy word, but, either way you say it, it comes down to the same thing. Made by you!

I enjoy crafting, for Christmas, especially, but also for very unique home touches, that have turned my home into, well, "my home." What I really know about though, is knitting.

Knitting gifts are the best gifts to give, and also to receive! Once you have knitted up some of your own "hand-made" goodies, you will wonder why you waited so long! And they don't need to be items that would take half a year to complete! Sometimes, the best and most enjoyable knittables are those you can finish in an evening or a weekend. Who said small isn't good? Diamonds, anyone?

So far,in this series, we have patterns for scarves and placemats. (They are in former articles, "Easy-as-pie knitting Gifts #1 & #2.)

Today, is Gift Idea #3 -- ribbon bracelets. Even if you wouldn't wear one yourself, I just bet you have daughters or nieces or neighborhood pre-teens who would appreciate all the accessories they can get their hands on! After all, we are talking girls here!

To knit up ribbon bracelets, any ribbon yarn will do. Or you can vary the texture and use a "fancy fur". Either way knitted bracelets are easy to knit, and you can make quite a few for next to nothing.

Now, I'm not advocating stinginess or being cheap, but, most yarn is inexpensive, and when knitted up into sweaters, booties, baby items, afghans, bedspreads, hats, socks, or holiday items, they look like a million bucks! Well, at least, much more than they cost!

Ribbon yarn is wonderfully easy to knit with; and using a small needle, say size 4 or 5, cast on 8 stitches minimum. Then, just knit every row. When you have your desired length, bind off and sew up the seam, and you're done. Probably no more than one hour's worth of time; but you now have a knitted bracelet. Colors abound, so have fun deciding. And, of course, you can make your bracelets as wide across as you want, as well as small or large as desired. They make great craft show items.

Any large store, such as Wal-Mart, or JoAnn's, will carry ribbon yarn. If you don't see it, ask for it or ask for them to order it for you, or buy it online.

Get busy knitting, and next time out will be Knitting Gift Idea #4!

About the Author

Keep YOUR knitting on the "Cutting Edge" with FREE patterns. The place where smart knitters gather resources and share stories. FREE Details ==> http://www.theknitstitch.com ]]> http://www.hautecoutureknitting.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry070226-134840 2007-02-26T00:00:00Z 2007-02-26T00:00:00Z by B Hopkins

Copyright 2006 B Hopkins

Did you ever enjoy texture of yarns in your hand or wondering how that interesting color pattern was created in your favorite sweater? Then you will surely have fun learning the art of knitting. Knitting is one of several ways to turn thread or yarn into cloth-weaving and crochet. It's all about creativity.

The Introductory Steps of Knitting

Unlike woven fabric, knitted fabric consists entirely of horizontal parallel courses of yarn. The courses are joined to each other by interlocking loops in which a short loop of one course of yarn is wrapped over the bight of another course. Knitting can be done either by hand, described below, or by machine. What makes knitting even more exciting is the fact that this art can be easily learned.

In practice, hand knitting is usually begun by forming a base series of twisted loops of yarn on a needle. This is called Cast On. A second knitting needle is then used to reach through each loop in succession in order to snag a bight of yarn and pull a length back through the loop. This forms a new stitch. Work can proceed in the round (circular knitting) or by going back and forth in rows. Knitting can also be done by machines, which use a different mechanical system to produce nearly identical results.

Knitting Styles: There are two basic styles of knitting; English and Continental. The difference between the two is in how you hold the yarn. In the English method the yarn is held in the right hand. In continental knitting, the yarn is held in the left hand. Whatever your natural hand-preference, you should be able to master either method because the nature of knitting is basically ambidextrous.

The two basic stitches are knit or plain and purl or wrong. These two nominal stitches are actually identical, however, being the obverse and reverse of the same stitch. It is the variations and combinations of these two stitches that create all the different stitch patterns which are possible in knitting. Typically, a knit stitch is formed by inserting the needle in the front of the loop from a left-to-right perspective and pulling a loop of yarn through to form a new loop, while a purl stitch is formed by inserting the needle in the front of the loop from a right-to-left perspective.

A piece of knitting begins with the process of casting on, which involves the initial creation of the stitches on the needle. Casting on is the first step in knitting These stitches become the first row of stitches and one selvage of your work, usually the bottom or hem.

Different methods of cast on are used for different effects; one may be stretchy enough for lace, while another provides a decorative edging. Provisional cast on is used when the knitting will continue in both directions from the cast on.

The body of a knitted piece may include plain stitches or a number of colors and textured patterns. The number of active stitches remains the same as when cast on unless stitches are added -an increase or removed- a decrease to shape the item.

Patterns to Knit (Way to Online Income): There are lots of people who sit at home and publish great knitting patters from home. Since over the years they have collected and modified many knitting patterns. They make a great income by selling/publishing the patterns on the net. Once you have enough practice, even you could make some online income.

Many patterns can be made by using knit and purl stitches in various combinations. If only knits or only purls are used when working back and forth in rows, the result is called garter stitch.

Alternating rows of knits and purls result in stockinette stitch, also known as stocking or jersey stitch, the stitch most often used in commercial garments such as T-shirts. Different combinations of stitches can be used to form ribbing, cables, or other textures.

Once the knitted piece is finished, the remaining live stitches are cast off. Casting or binding off loops the stitches across each other so they can be removed from the needle without unraveling the item. Although the mechanics are different from casting on, there are a similar variety of methods and choices to be made. Of the various methods the most versatile are the Plain Bind-off and the Suspended Bind-off.

Knitted garments are most commonly made in pieces, where individual sections of the garment are knit separately and then sewn together once all the pieces have been completed. Seamless knitting, where a whole garment is knit as a single piece is also possible. Smaller items, such as socks and hats are usually knit in one piece on double pointed needles.

Knitting can be easily learned these days as there are many websites on knitting and also various books for beginners available on the market, where you can find step by step instructions. These instructions are so easy to follow that even kids would not find them difficult at all. Show your creativity, grab your knitting tools and learn to knit today!

About the Author

Do you want to learn how to knit? For more articles on knitting and crochet, go to the knittinginfosite.com. Find knitting and crochet articles, knitting resources and other items usefull for knitters. http://knittinginfosite.com (This article is a http://Drivetraffictomywebsite.com creation)]]> http://www.hautecoutureknitting.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry070223-092939 2007-02-23T00:00:00Z 2007-02-23T00:00:00Z by Robert Thatcher

You may never have attempted to sew anything for yourself since your schooldays -- or again, you may have abandoned the whole idea after one or two disappointing failures.

The good news is that sewing equipment and dressmaking patterns are highly developed now than ever, so it has been made easier for you to start, whether you wish to make basics for yourself and your family, supplement sophisticated ready-to-wear with simple additions of your own, or eventually progress to the heights of the designer's patterns.

Whatever the reason, you will have the satisfaction of expressing your own ideas - the pattern you purchase may be available to many, but the fabric you choose and perhaps the trimmings that complete it are exclusive to you.

Take for example the case of knitting. This is, basically, a special way of creating marvelous creations from a ball of yarn. Through this process, the yarn or thread is converted into cloth.

Basically, knitting can be made either manually, where the hands create remarkable cloth with the help of knitting needles, or mechanically, with the use of knitting machine.

Knitted Fabrics

In knitting, a different kind of fabric is used, known as the knitted fabrics. All knit fabrics are made of a series of interlocking loops. This makes them more flexible than woven fabrics. While all knits have stretch, they vary considerably in amount and direction of stretch. The factors that influence stretch are the yarn and the structure of the knit.

There are two basic knit types: weft and warp. The first derives from age-old techniques of hand knitting. The second, a modern innovation, is the product of complex machines.

Records show that the first knitting machine was invented in 1589. Today's advanced versions produce an incredible range of fabrics from sheer lingerie knits to bulky sweater knits.

Basic Composition

Knit fabrics may be tubular or flat. Some flat knits have perforated lengthwise edges comparable to selvedges in woven fabrics.

Complex stitches or special finishes sometimes obscure a knit structure, making it hard to tell whether a fabric is knitted or woven. To establish which it is, pull a thread from one crosswise end. If lops show, the fabric is a knit; if a fringe appears, it is woven.

Knits vary in stretchability. Just how much a knit stretches crosswise should be determined before you buy it. If the pattern you have chosen is marked "for knits only," it will probably supply a gauge, but for only one of three stretch categories -- slight, moderate, or super stretch.

Shopping for Fabrics

In knitting, it is extremely important to choose the best knit fabrics available in the market. A successfully chosen garment fabric will complement the pattern design, flatter the wearer, perform according to expectations, and be of good quality for the money.

Here is a list of some tips that you need to employ when choosing for the best knit fabric:

1. Weave should be firm.

You can test this by scratching the surface; if the threads shift easily, the garment seams may be inclined to slip or develop holes around the stitching.

2. Weave should be uniform.

Hold it up to the light and check for any unusually thick or thin areas. The light test will show up any weak spots or imperfections.

3. Print colors should be even

There should be no white (undyed) spots showing through them, except in areas that are clearly meant to be white.

Getting a perfect knit fabric is one of the chief, if not the paramount, reason for learning how to employ knitting at its best. Hence, if you are considering on trying some knitting, try to learn first how to identify a good knit fabric by using the guides for buying knit fabrics.

About the Author

Robert Thatcher is a freelance publisher based in Cupertino, California. He publishes articles and reports in various ezines and provides knitting resources on www.aboutknitting.info ]]> http://www.hautecoutureknitting.com/blog/index.php?entry=entry070220-091950 2007-02-20T00:00:00Z 2007-02-20T00:00:00Z