FO: McCalls 5250 High Waisted Slacks & Misc.

Stuff and Stuff and some more Stuff!

McCalls 5250 High-Waisted Slacks

Love them! Got lots of compliments on them. These slacks were soooo comfortable.

Pattern: McCall's 5250 High-Waisted Slacks
Material: Tartan Grey Metallic Suiting
Notions: 9" zipper, flat hook closure
Mods & Notes: I had planned to fully line with Posh polyester from JoAnns but while sewing I had a tearing mishap. I may go back later and add lining. I originally cut these out in muslin to get the proper fit. Which I now use as a sort of sloper. Added about 3" to the length. Have to learn how to do a better hidden zipper. Took a little extra time to match the pattern and lengthened the belt carriers by 1" each to accomodate wider belts.

Results: I really love these pants and got many many compliments on them today. Only drawback is the side seam pockets don't lay as flat as they could causing puckering. I may go back and stay stitch them to the outer seams. The pattern is easy and requires little to no guesswork. I highly recommend.

Pinstripes Swatch

Now if I could just sit down and finish the dang ole sweater AND write out the pattern. I dream big and in color. I seem to be slipping back into some habits I thought I had long left behind. Procrastination and not finishing. I'm going to hold myself accountable on this one. Hopefully I'll have a progress pic in my next post.

Tea, Cream & Red Velvet

With walnut icing. The redder the better. Jongewaards in Long Beach.



Kamika now if I go in here and eat this mint cheesecake I'll be stuffed!

Busyboding Around

No need to speak too much. I just finished a couple of items I'd like you all to see. All the great sewing bloggers inspired me to start sewing again, so I did that. Had some jewelry that I finished a couple of months ago, so I'm posting that. And, I threw in a pair of extra special stitch markers, so there! Enjoy the pics.

OOOOh! Thanks for all the great compliments on my previous posts. Unfortunately, If you don't leave your email addy I can' t reply to you personally. But thank you just the same!

Pencil Skirt

Pattern: McCall's 5590
Material: Navy Blue Pinstriped Wool Suiting
Notions: 2 grey buttons from stash
Mods: Fully lined with Posh polyester from JoAnns. Since I have junk in the trunk I had to grade out to my size (will not be telling cause it's so far from my ready-to-wear). Have to go back and fix the hem in the front and send it to the cleaners for a good pressing.

Tangerine Pearl Bracelet

White pearls with tangerine and persimmon colored glass beads, sea shell lampworks, and gold wire wrapping. Given as a gift to one of my coworkers.

Earrings

Scrollwork Stitchmarkers

If you would like to purchase any of this jewelry, please email me at kamikak at msn dot com.

Kamika busybodying

FO: #4 Ribbed Top by Vladimir Teriokhin

Wow! I haven't had a knit or crochet FO since June. So as not to come off as a slacker (which I totally am), I too like many other knitters, just haven't felt inspired to knit. I have been crafty in other areas though. Pics to come.

Anyhoo, I finally finished the #4 Ribbed Top from Vogue Knitting Spring/Summer 2008. So without further adieu:

#4 Ribbed Top by Vladimir Teriokhin


Time: June -October 2008
Yarn: Malabrigo Silky Merino, 5 hanks (approx. 750 yds) in Teal Feather
Needles/Hook: 6US
Modifications: Started the entire set of center cables 6 rows later than called for. This ensured that the cables wouldn't disect my bust at an awkward position making it look as if I had 4 breasts instead of 2.
Notes: Now this was a booga bear If I'd ever seen one. I had to rip out half the back over 5 times just to get it right. If you're going to try this one make sure you read the pattern through with caution. and comprehension. You know reading is fundamental. ;-P

My next projects already on the needles. I'll keep you posted.

Kamika finally done

A FO, A Bed, & Some Hope

In Reverse order.

The Hope:

I'm counting down! Five more days until I'm emancipated from my life of serfdom at The Motel. I can't wait! I've been itching to buy all kinds of stuff to get ready for this move. I've already scheduled a day off, ordered the utilities, and assembled the move crew. I even bought a brand new high tech shower head. DM is a little surly about it but she'll get over it. LB and ST have moved back in as well as The Guest, Jeeves, and The Nut so she'll have plenty of company.

The Bed:

Yesterday I went out and bought a brand new bed! It's so FIYAH. I got it from Z Gallerie le outlet instead of the retail store and I'm so happy I did. I got it for 70% off and it's still in their current catalogue. Can you believe it?

This is my bed, called the Leslie Bed in Chocolate Passion Micro-Suede. The entire bed cost me $325 with tax. On the website it's going for $1,083 with tax and NOT including the shipping of $135. In total I saved a whopping $893. I just can't help but to pat myself on the back.

and lastly...

The FO: Reverse Halter

Forgive the "Front" pic. I have a serious issue with letting my niece's cleavage and belly be exposed and she didn't have time to put on a tank top before work. I believe in modesty, plus my niece didn't wear the collar up. Better pictures to come. Since this is a gift for my cousin Stacey, I'll try to catch her wearing it.

Time: June 2008, About a 2 weeks due to figuring out mods

Yarn: Vanna's Choice Worsted Weight Yarn, 4 balls in rust

Needles/Hook: J

Modifications: Instead of using Paton's Pooch as pattern calls for I used small wooden rings (about 72) from the jewelry making section of Michael's. Knitaholictoo suggested wooden beads. Thanks for the inspiration girl!

Kamika on the move

OZ

This is an I'm not trying to shine I just can't help myself type of shrug. For those times when you want to wrap yourself up in simple elegance. Made to be very baggy and blouson.

Size:
One Size

Finished Measurements:
Across back (Not including sleeves): 49"
Length: 29"

Materials:
Berrroco Boho [48% Nylon, 25% Cotton 27% Rayon; Thin ribbon; 98 yds/90m per 50g]
Color: Pastures of Plenty; 3 balls

Cascade Sierra [80% Pima Cotton, 20% Wool; Worsted; 191 yds/175m per 100g]
Color: #08 Green; 3 skeins

Tahki Yarns Dream [80% Wool, 20% Nylon; Fingering; 262 yds/240m per 50g]
Colors: Pale Lime; 1 ball; Light Olive; 1/4 ball (optional)

Needles:
Size: US 11/8.0 mm

Gauge:
13 sts/24 rows = 4 inches worked in 2 x 2 rib (updated 9/9/08)

Stitch:
2 x 2 rib (k2, p2 to the end) No edge stitches needed

Body:
- CO 160 sts. Do not join but work flat
[RS] Even row: k2, p2 till end
[WS] Odd Rows: p2, k2 till end

Repeat this for 20 rows

Sleeves:
(For short sleeves) CO 10 sts
(For long sleeves) CO 20 or 30 sts (depending on how long you want them). I cast on 30 and then folded them under in the picture.

Turn work and knit in 2x2 rib back to the other edge. CO the same amount of stitches as the previous sleeve and work 2x2 rib back and continue.

Work flat over all stitches for 38 rows. If you have larger arm circumference (mine are 14") then add on additional rows remembering that 3 rows equals 2 inches.

Row 39: BO all sleeve stitches. Work across to the end.
Row 40: BO all sleeve stitches. Work across to the end.

Resume working back and forth in 2x2 rib for 20 rows. Total of 60 rows.

Edging:
Leaving stitches on the needle and using the same yarn from the other end of the ball or another ball. Fold the piece in half (inside out) matching all edges. Sew the bottom edges of the shrug on both sides. You should have two seams that start at the base of the sweater side and end at each sleeve opening. I didn't use edge stitches but feel free to incorporate them for seaming.

Row 61: Returning to the stitches on your needle. Pick up and knit another 160 stitches on the back side of the shrug (320 sts).

Switch yarns holding together 1 strand of Boho with 1 strand of Dream. Knit in 2 x 2 rib in the round for 4 rows.

Row 65: Work in rib for 6 sts, yo, k2tog* repeat to end
Row 66-70: Work in rib
Row 71: Work in rib for 6 sts, yo, k2tog* repeat to end
Row 72 - 90 work in rib

Bind off all stitches and weave in ends.



Tassles:
Here's some quicklinks -

http://www.nezumiworld.com/crochet_057.htm

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p9H82Kk49zM
_________________________________________________
I hope you enjoy making this shrug. If you do, please comment and leave a link to your finished project. I'll post them here. Forgive me in advance if there are any errors in the pattern. Any questions? Email me at kamikak at msn dot com.

This pattern is to be used only for personal use. Please do not sell the pattern or objects made from it. I retain all ownership and rights to publication and copyright.



Kamika

Pattern: OZ

My Inspiration - Miss One

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I just love this song and Miss One is my girl with her little numbers running self. This song has been known to play on repeat on my iPod.

Introducing OZ! My first wearable design (clothing wise). Once I saw the colors in the Berrocco Boho I just couldn't resist. My family and I loved the result. My cousins even tried to steal it from me. Wear it as I did over jeans or spice it up for the evening. I plan to post the quick and simple pattern for free real soon. Enjoy the pics below.

OZ

Time: May 15th - May 25th, 2008
Yarn: Berrocco Boho in Pastures of Plenty, 3.5 skeins (209yds each); Cascade Sierra in Green 08, 3 skeins (192yds each); Tahki Dream in Green, 1 ball (262yds each); Yellow-Green, (approx. 55yds)
Needles/Hook: US 11
Notes: Double stranded the Boho with the Dream in the deep green color for an irridescent look. This shrug is knit flat and mirrored then folded in half and seamed at the edges. I suppose it could be knit in the round until the sleeves, but knitting flat seemed much better. It's entirely 2x2 rib with 2 sets of yarn overs in the trim for detail. The tassles are made with the remaining yarn.

Pattern coming soon!

Kamika

Trying To Be Prolific

This weekend was full of knitting and creating. I had summoned all of my crafting power into my hands in order to finish off as many projects as I could. I was knitting like yarn was endangered. Alas, I didn't finish everything but a lot and I even found time to make some great stitch markers. Check tomorrow's post for pics of the stitch markers individually. Otherwise this would have been a very picture heavy post.

You already know I finished Buttony, and the Brother In Law Hat. I finished the Cycling Aran, zipper and all. I also swatched the Deep V Argyle Vest. I just about finished a scarf I was making to go along with His sweater and hat (I'm trying to use up the remaining 1/2 skein of Malabrigo and 1/2 skein of Blue Sky Alpaca's that I used on the last two projects, otherwise this is entirely to much coordination for me). I started the Oatmeal Jacket from Monkey Suits and I had to keep myself from starting a scarf for my secret swap partner.

Check it out! Here are some progress pics on the Cycling Aran and the finished project:

The zipper took me about an hour to put in. I didn't want to do it by machine and risk puckering or tearing the stitches ragged.

On my previous attempt I had stitched a simple stockinette lining. When I tried the jacket on a male friend, I noticed that the lining didn't stretch like the collar and wouldn't allow the collar to close. I ripped it out and decided to make the lining ribbed like the color to get the same amount of stretch.

Me modeling the finished product with hat.

Kamika

Something To Keep His Head Warm

Time: February 21st - February 22nd, 2008
Yarn: Blue Sky Alpacas Organic Cotton, 1/2 skein (150yds each)
Needles/Hook: US 8 16" circ.
Notions: None
Notes: Found pattern on Kody May Knits. It's called the Brother In Law Basked Weave Hat. Very well written pattern that can be knit in about 6 hours or less. For an adult male's head I would recommend doing, at minimum, 3 repeats of the pattern before starting to decrease. My hat is for someone who is bald so it will fit fine on him but as you can see with my hair in the above pic, it might not be long enough for someone who has a larger head with hair. For larger heads just add more repeats. Kody gives the option to decrease in or out of pattern. I decreased in pattern which, IMHO, gave it a nicer finish at the top.

I plan to make more of these.

Kamika

V-Day and Buttony Done

I've been so behind in posting pics of my current projects! Forgive me! I am trying a new thing in the morning. I'm still getting up at the crack of dawn but I'm getting dressed earlier so I can start incorporating blogging and eating a complete breakfast here at home before I trek off to work. Both of which seem to be some serious feats. It's hard when you have other vagabounds living in the same house with you. LOL

^^^Look what DM and TG got me for Vday! Threatening works everytime.

I want to first thank my swap partner Sandra for the great swap gift. She and I participated in the Ebony Elite Ravelry group swap this past winter. I was pleasantly surprised when I got my package in time for Valentine's Day and it was all red with great stuff.

I got a skein of Malabrigo, a skein of Misti Alpaca Lace, a really nice oversized button (I may have to find something to make around it, hmmh), some beauty products, some much needed hair bands, Hazelnut chocolate (how did she know I love most everything hazlenut?), and some stylish tissues. I love it and thanks again!

I've also completed a knit project. Almost! I need to stitch the detailing on the sleeves but other than that it's wearable and DONE!

Buttony

Time: January 28th - February 20th, 2008
Yarn: Malabrigo Worsted Wool in Sunset, 4.5 skeins (209yds each)
Needles/Hook: US 10
Notions: 13 silver Angel Buttons

Notes: Katie Marcus' pattern is really more of an outline on how do do a top down raglan sweater. I would strongly recommend measuring your arm circumference before knitting this. If you don't, you will overestimate the size of your arms in comparison to your bust measurement and end up with baggy arms. I did by about 9 increases, hence the detailing I am now doing on the sleeves to kind of cinch the arms up. I didn't feel like ripping back to the arms to make it right. I added in waist shaping, starting about 2 inches below the armscye join. I decreased 1 stitch on each side every 6 rows 5 times, knit 12 rows, and then increased in the same manner for my hips.

I made my sleeves 3/4 instead of full arm. I think it gives it a nice sweater girl look. I would do this pattern again to make the perfect sweater!

Kamika

Been So Long...

Wow, I didn't realize I had been away for so long. Crimson Purl had to bring me back. Thanks lady! It's late and I'm feeling a little under the weather but enjoy Isobel In Red by French Girl Knits and some shots of the completed Blanket Coat I crocheted. Didn't have a good enough model to model the coat but the candids are nice.

Isobel In Red

Time: Mid November- December 1st
Yarn: Sensations Cosetta, Just 6 skeins (350yds total doubled up)
Needles/Hook: US 17 and 19
Notions: 2 1 1/2" buttons

Blanket Coat

Kamika

Throwback Thursdays ~ FO: Cleaves

Cleaves. A great concept but not truly suited for the buxom knitter. Originally made for myself but ultimately given to some one who didn't want to learn to knit it themselves. Designed by Katherine Summer O'neal for Knitty Spring '05.

Time: Oct. 2006 - Nov. 2006
Yarn: Brown Sheep Lamb's Pride Bulky, Lemon Drop, 5 skeins (125 yds each)
Needles/Hook: US 11 circs and dpns

Kamika

Throwback Thursdays ~ FO Edition

Consider this to be a sort of "digging in the crates" installment. Every Thursday I plan to show a project that I completed prior to blogging from my early knit/crochet days. Forgive me if some of the info is incomplete. My goal back then was to get stuff done and move on to the next project rather than to savor the knitting moment and be thoughtful about fit.

The first FO is Mrs. Beeton's from Knitty Winter 2005 and Marigold from Marnie Maclean. I made them as a set for my friend Rae Ann as a Christmas gift. Here she is modeling the hat. Enjoy!

Time: December 2006 (1 day)
Yarn: Sirdar Denim Aran, Just 3 balls (259yds each)
Needles/Hook: 8 US
Modifications: Beaded with larger pearls and attached second color on the inside instead of outside.

Kamika

FO: Chysanthemum Tea Shawl

Look Mom. No mods! Presenting the Chrysanthemum Tea Shawl from the Amazing Crochet Lace book. A love gift for one of my church sisters (I'm not saying which and all you church readers better not say nothing!). This took only 4 days to work up but was a lot more intensive than the Blue Curaçao. I hope she enjoys it.

One suggestion. If I make another in the future I will make it with a solid color. Eventhough the variegated yarn looks good, I think the leaves would have stood out more on a solid color. The solid colors to me provide for a more satiny filet look.

Time: July 31st - August 5th (ran out of yarn)
Yarn: Paton's Grace in Tangelo, Just 5 balls (136yds each)
Needles/Hook: I/9

Kamika

FO: Airy Wrap-Around Lace Sweater

I finished it and I love it! Of course modifications, de riguer of well-fitted knits, abound. Not too many though as Stefanie Japel seems to design dang near specifically for my body type. She's 6'0" tall and I'm 5"11" which means automatic long arms and legs and/or torso. Kismet that can only be found in the Knit/crochet fashion world.

I only made two changes. The first one was to create a side slit between the cabling to thread one of the ties through. This cut down on bulk and made the garment lay better. It also exposed the ribbing in the back rather than covering it up.

The second modification was to shorten the opposite tie by 24.5" or 7 pattern repeats. I didn't think it was necessary for both ties to wrap around my waist. The tie that is threaded wraps around my waist and meets the other at the front to give a smooth tie. Enjoy the pics!

Time: July 14th - July 26th
Yarn: RAM Angora (Mohair Laceweight), Just under 2 skeins (545yds each)
Needles: Size 11 US

More details on my Ravelry page.

Kamika