Short Row Heel – Part 2

The second part of the short row heel seems to give knitters the most trouble. Picking up the wraps can be tricky until you recognize which strand to pick up and how it should be knit. Let me help you through this step and you can become a fan of this quick and professional looking heel. Watch both Part 1 and Part 2 and you will be cruising through your heels!

Join in the Round

Circular knitting is the preferred method used to knit most socks and hats.  It is so popular that many knitters choose circular knitting for sweaters since it eliminates most seams from the garment.

A circular knitting pattern will ask you to cast on the required number of stitches and then “join in the round”.  This phrase causes confusion for many first time circular knitters.  The process is really quite simple and will open the door to the world of circular knitting.

I hope after watching this video that you will be tempted to try knitting in the round.  (Hint – socks!)

Stretchy Picot Bind Off

Toe up socks require a bind off that is both stretchy and firm.  It needs to be stretchy to fit over the foot and yet firm enough to stay up on your leg.  The Stretchy Picot Bind Off meets these requirements while adding a darling ruffled and crochet-like edge to the cuff of your sock.  This bind off also adds a sweet touch to sleeve cuffs and necklines or wherever a touch of whimsy is desired.

As with many knitting techniques the written instructions can seem daunting, but follow along with this simple video and you will be adding a unique signature to your next sock or garment.

Knitting Retreat

There is nothing more divine than a weekend away with fellow knitters!  I spent the past weekend at Autumn House Farms in Rochester Mills, Pennsylvania.  This picturesque haven is near Punxsutawney (yes, the Groundhog Capital) and housed me and my knitting buddies for three days of relaxation and education.

Autumn Farms is a self-sustaining farm.  For a city girl like me, I learned how this type of farm grows their own crops to feed their flock of sheep. The sheep are sheared and their wool is spun into beautiful yarn all on their own premises.  Harriet and Kenny shared their vast knowledge and warm hospitality creating the perfect getaway in their rustic bed and breakfast, The Shepherd’s Rest.

I used the time to work on new designs for upcoming classes.  It’s amazing how the creative energy just explodes when the daily grind is far away.  A crackling fire in the pot belly stove fueled my needles and my knitting soul.  I hope you can find the time for knitting with friends, too!