I’ve been inspired by my sweet friend and fellow fiber artist Tina, to share books that I’m reading and WIP shots.
I grabbed a copy of the “In Sheep’s Clothing” ebook by Nola and Jane Fournier at Interweave’s hurt book sale yesterday. I have read approximately 1/3 of the book so far and am learning a ton about the different breeds of sheep and their wool characteristics, as well as some interesting historical facts. For instance, did you know that previous to the decline of the Spanish Empire in the eighteenth century, it was forbidden to export Merinos from Spain upon penalty of death? Wow! Talk about highly prized fleece!
With so many amazing types of sheep and widely varying fiber, there is a ton to learn about wool and I look forward to continuing to read through this book.
On the knitting front, yesterday I cast on a new pair of handspun socks with my “Little Fishes” handspun. I am using the magic loop method and sailing right along. Sock # 1 is finished and I made a really good dent in sock #2 during Judah’s soccer practice today. They are super simple (toe up, short row heel, plain knitting for most of the sock) so that the fun colors of the yarn gets to shine. I will be sharing a free pattern for them a little later. Yay!
So what are you reading? What new projects have you just cast on or finished up? I’d love to hear!
You are such a sweetheart, thank you so much for the mention dear Simone
. What a neat book and I bet you are learning lots! I love your handspun socks and so envious on how speedy you are with your spinning and knitting!!
It was my pleasure! I love hearing about books others are reading and find it is a lot like my “to-knit” list … my “to-read” list is pretty long as well. lol
If you love Magic Loop you will absolutely love knitting two at a time. Both socks finished at the same time – no more one sock syndrome. You can you tube it to find out how (I have the book if you need to borrow it). You need a long circular needle – like 40 inches (100 cm) to make it a comfortable, easy knit.
Thanks Corinne! I haven’t tried two at a time yet (need to pick up a longer circular first) but I’ve been really wanting to give it a try. I’m thinking my next pair of handspun socks will be knit that way! he he he
I have been dyeing some skeins ready for socks and gloves so you can imagine how please i was to get your blog! I am looking forward to your sock pattern.
thank you
Oooo Rosa! Sounds like your having lots of fibery fun! Any pics of your lovely yarns to share?