Nature Knits

Baa Baa ? Sheep

2007-11-30T13:38:00.000-05:00

I like my sheep colorful. Sheep of different shades remind me of how much fun it is to create different colorways and patterns with fiber and dye. My swap group may think it is a little strange....but they are getting sheep of a different color.

Jawoll Cotton Jacquard Yarn

2007-10-27T16:24:00.000-04:00

Jawoll Socks

2007-10-27T14:11:00.001-04:00

sock mosaic, originally uploaded by poketypatch.

What would this look like in FIBER?

2007-09-14T13:56:00.000-04:00

Little Chihuahua

2007-09-13T18:00:00.000-04:00

Penguin

2007-09-10T17:17:00.000-04:00

Which is Real?

2007-09-07T13:24:00.000-04:00

Amigurumi Pumkin vs. Real Pumpkin from my garden. Which is which?

Here Kitty Kitty

2007-03-28T17:33:00.000-04:00

I suppose I am going through a cat phase. Here are some more softies. This one is from the pattern by wee wonderfuls. I think he is so cute! We have named him Eddie.

I found another free cat pattern with diagram (amineko) . This pattern calls for crocheting the cat in true Japanese fashion. I am new to crocheting, but could figure out the pattern easily with the diagram that was included for each piece of the cat.

When it came to sewing the pieces together, I had to fake it using my knitting finishing skills. I have never crocheted anything besides a wash cloth, so, actually, the entire animal was "faked". Those are pebbles on the paper towel beside the pieces. The pattern calls for plastic pellets or pebbles in the bottom of the torso, legs and hands. All I could put by hand on were little pebbles from the driveway. TIP: I put a tiny bit of stuffing in first to line the bottom and sides of the cat before dropping in a small amount of pebbles.

Since then I have done some research on Amigurumi which is Japanese for knitted or crocheted animal. There are lots of free patterns for crocheted creatures. The website, Crochet Me, is full of great tips for Amigurumi. My cat came together just fine, but I was happy to find a tutorial on assembling your project in the correct manner at this site as well.

I used Plymouth Encore Yarn for the body and an H crochet hook. Once I was done, I decided that I probably should have used a smaller hook. So, in order to try out my new skills, I have started another feline.

On another note, as soon as that kitty above was complete, my stuffed toy loving son had absconded with it. And, luckily, it has held up well to karate fights, back flips and bedtime naps. I would definitely recommend this pattern!

Fiber Drops

2007-02-23T16:50:00.000-05:00

I sold all my fiber drops on ETSY. So I am making some more. I hope to have the shop restocked soon.

I especially like these. They remind me of Robin Egg Blue, perfect for spring!

TShirt Fun - IN Moderation

2007-02-18T15:38:00.000-05:00

Over the last few years, I have had to rotate craft production due to an ever-increasing case of arthritis in my hands. Beware - all of you obsessive knitters who decide to start spinning and use the computer a lot at work. Take it from me, this is a bad combination that adds up to pain in the hands. Last summer, I made it worse playing tennis obsessively with my 12 year old son. After injuring my wrist, the doctor gave me the advise: "No housework, no knitting and play tennis with someone at your own level." Ha!

One solution which has seemed to satisfy my craving to craft was to move into different "craft modalities" and to do them in "MODERATION". What an original thought.

A project that I had been planning for ages, was to make a TShirt Quilt out of the treasured shirts that my boys had outgrown. With a little planning (for dimensions), shopping (for filler, backing and binding tape) and the help of my old sewing machine, I had a wonderful blankie for a happy boy!

Here is the initial construction going together. I cut out tshirt blocks that were 12"x12". There were 20 blocks in all. Using the foot long blocks and a 3/4" seam around made it easily with filler that was 42" wide.

I used a non-pilling fleece for backing. It is so soft and warm! With the 5 square row down, the quilt required 2 yards of fleece which was 60" wide. Quilt binding worked great around the edges. I only needed 2 packs of binding.

I think it turned out great! As soon as it was done, my kids were fighting on who had dibs. I had originally planned on making it for my youngest son, and had used what I thought were his old tshirts. However, my middle son pointed out that several of the shirts were actually his (my aging memory had associated all with the youngest probably because of his wearing them in the most recent past as hand-me-downs!)
So, I dedicated it to both of them.

And, keeping with the theme of "moderation" (NOT), I went out and purchased more filler and backing to start on the next quilt!

Pinky the Valentine Cat

2007-02-11T18:05:00.000-05:00

Pinky the Valentine Cat

Roses are red

Violets are blue

Valentine Kitties are Pink

And, this one is so easy to do!

Using old scraps of material and felt

And a pattern found for free

You can make one too

Just like me!

Valentine Project For you

2007-02-08T15:04:00.000-05:00

A couple of years ago, I designed a Valentine Pillow for a relative who was ill with cancer. I posted the tutorial here. Have fun!

Thank goodness this came in the post today...

2006-07-07T15:34:00.000-04:00

because I had a really rough day on the tennis court. For some reason, I have decided to take up tennis with a group of 40 somethings, all of whom are quite athletic, to my surprise (you would have never guessed from the carpool lane!). I have been attending weekly clinics and then hitting with the girls while are kids take lessons. On a side note, before starting tennis, I have been having a lot of trouble with my joints in my knees and hands. I haven't been able to knit at full throttle for some now, thus the lack of blogging. I went to the doctor this week for that problem and he ordered a complete blood workup - trying to rule out lymes, arthritis etc...

So fast forward back to today. Before I went to tennis, I had to get lots of blood drawn. I have awful veins, so it took several sticks. I also had been fasting since last evening. When I showed up at the tennis court, the girls wanted to play a game of doubles. Well, they have been playing pretty regularly for months (one in a tennis league), and I just started two weeks ago. Between the fasting, blood-letting, and lack of experience on the court, I started to give out after about 45 minutes. By the second set, I was pooped and feeling faint. So, wimpily, I convinced another friend to come off another court and take my place. I have felt yucky for the rest of the day - sort of depressed at the fact that I am not as athletic - never have been, upset that I didn't finisht the game, and daunted at how I am going to have to work so hard to get to where I can play and feel like I can contribute on the court.

Better to think of yarn...and to the Lornas Laces that arrived in my mailbox today. Thank goodness it came. It reminds me that I may not be the best at handling a racket, but I can compete pretty darn well with a couple of knitting needles in hand. I will have to settle at being one crafty gal who is determined to get it together on the tennis court. Maybe I will make myself some lovely tennis anklets out of this daffodil yarn. I just love fashion on the court. That would surely bring me some good luck!

Fiber Button Earrings

2006-07-04T13:44:00.000-04:00

Fiber Button Earrings2
Originally uploaded by fiberEvolution.

I took the fiberdrops to the next level and designed these little button earrings. I used Coopworth Locks that I purchased at Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival. They were dyed all sorts of wonderful colors. I really like the look of these!

Fiber Drops

2006-07-03T15:48:00.000-04:00

I dreamed up these earrings while spinning the other night. They are Raspberry Fiberdrop Earrings. I wore a pair today, and every time I needed a fiber fix, I just rubbed them. It was like having a bit of fiber with me all day.

They can be yours too. I have several pairs listed at StillPondFiberworks

Pretty in Pink Poncho

2006-03-10T10:13:00.000-05:00

Product Endorsement

2006-02-02T16:01:00.000-05:00

A little birdy told me that blocking could be made much easier if one "carefully" uses a steamer. I decided that I must try this method. I traveled 45 minutes to the Giant Walmart in Elkton, MD; and, guess what, they didn't have one. As I was driving home, cursing Walmart, I noticed a little KMart on the way. I pulled in and guess what? There it was - the CONAIR Travel Steamer. And to top things off, I purchased some of Marth Stewart's Heirloom Veggie and Flower Seeds. Don't Forget KMART ladies!

Once home, I immediately tested out my new toy. Just take one look below and you can see for yourself what a great job it did. And, as a bonus, I have been steaming little wrinkles out of my sweater each day.

I really like this steamer. It comes with a travel bag so that you can take it when you travel. The only drawback is that due to its small size, it doesn't hold a whole lot of water. I had to refill a couple of times when steaming a full sized sweater that was very wrinkled. I didn't mind having to refill, as I was steaming in the bathroom right next to the sink.

Baby Socks

2006-01-31T16:46:00.000-05:00

Pretty in Pink Socks

2006-01-31T16:45:00.000-05:00

Another pair out of the Gems Sportweight. I am wearing these today with clogs. Okay - I am officially addicted to handknit socks. Each morning when I go to pull out a pair to wear, I instictively look for the handknits!

Pea Green Socks

2006-01-31T16:42:00.000-05:00

These Socks were made out of Gems Merino Sportweight Yarn. I love the feel of the yarn - very soft. I used a pattern I found free online and then adapted it for what I wanted to do. I used size 4 needles which made my gauge a little loose but not too loose. I am please with the yarn and will knit socks on this yarn again!

Welcome Back to Blogging

2005-06-28T14:57:00.000-04:00

Okay, I know it has been a while since I have checked the blog. I find that every so often, I must take a break from the blogging world. Usually the real world starts moving so fast, becoming so busy, that I just can't even think. Since April much has happened.

We attended the Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival. It was wonderful and overwhelming at the same time. I landed some cool roving and some new knitting projects. We discovered angora goats, and even contemplated bringing one home to Still Pond. Once home, dh reminded us how much care our 3 rabbits, 2 dogs and 3 cats already take...and wouldn't a goat or two just overwhelm us? So, we put the idea on hold for a while.

Henry Loved the Goats!

While we were there Willy, my spinning son, tried out a new spinning wheel. My mother was so impressed that she bought one just like it!

On the spinning front, I have been trying out new dyeing techniques I learned at the Stoney Mountain Fibers Dyeing Class I attended. More on that later...but here is a sneak peek at some of the yarn I dyed from the class.

Yarn from Dyeing Class

Currently, I am working on knitting up some of my stash of handspun yarn. What fun1

Knitting Teddy Bears

2005-04-07T13:03:00.000-04:00

I have been taking advantage of 40% off coupons from Michael's Craft Stores which have been arriving in our once weekly newspaper. The coupon entitles you to 40% off one full-priced item each week. I have been using the discounts to stock my very own knitting library.

One of the books I have acquired is The Knitted Teddy Bear by Sandra Polley. I fell in love with this book just looking at the cover. Once inside, the book is filled with many wonderful, easy to follow patterns for knitting teddy bears.

Pieces of Blue

Bluebeary Costruction

Violet

A Good Bias Revisited

2005-03-29T14:26:00.000-05:00

I suppose I am biased. But, I really did enjoy knitting this piece! And, I would like to brag that this is the first knit-a-long project that I have actually finished.

What did I like about this pattern?

First, it is a quick knit! I love quick knits. I love knitting up "instant gratification"!

Second, the lace pattern is just juicy enough to keep one interested, but easy enough so that someone who is trying to be mother, wife, maid, etc... can knit the pattern with some interruption.

The main reason why I like this pattern is that it actually FITS and looks cool on, especially from the back. Over the years, I have found that I am getting much better at choosing patterns which will fit me and are wearable. I have had really good luck with the patterns I choose out of Interweave Knits, and I suppose that is why I love this magazine so much.

Hints to those still knitting:

1. If you are a knitter that is forced to get up and down to tend to little (or big) children and/or pets, you MUST make a chart and you MUST remember to mark off each row you complete. This worked like a charm for me. I will admit that there was a time where I didn't mark my completed rows. When I returned to my knitting, I started at the last completed row marked, and before I knew it I had repeated rows 5 and 6 several times. The GOOD NEWS is that the lace pattern is forgiving, and the repeat is really un-noticeable to the untrained eye. The BAD NEW is that my eyes are trained to notice just such a mistake, and thus had to give in and frog.

2. Use markers to divide the 10 stitch lace repeats. This was a life saver for me - someone who gets destracted easily.

3. I would not advise knitting on this project when one is exremely tired, has extremely cranky children, or has had more than 2 glasses of wine. You will regret it the next day.

Thanks to Katy for suggesting this project. I wouldn't have been so inspired without your knit-a-long.

A Really Good Bias!

2005-03-28T13:50:00.000-05:00

A Really Good Bias Finished.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2005-03-17T13:29:00.000-05:00

Don't Pinch Me!

Here is my green shamrock yarn spun up from the roving below. It is leprechan approved!

Biasing Along

2005-03-17T12:57:00.000-05:00

I have been knitting feverishly trying to finish my good bias. I got my hands on some of the Mission Falls 1824 cotton at the Yarn Garden in Annapolis. I was thinking about doing it in the pinky peach color but was convinced by the clerk that the blue, color #402 Sea, would be a perfect color for me.

Knitting the first sleeve, I was feeling a bit "lace challenged". I kept making little mistakes which meant a bit of frogging. However, after I came up with a chart to help me along, I got into the swing of things. I also used stitch markers to mark every 10 stitches in the pattern so as to catch little mistakes quickly. Now, I feel like a pro, and even ventured to knit it during my PTF meeting this week. I hope to be finished by the end of the next week!

We will be traveling to Ocean City next week during our kids' spring breakfrom Kent School. We have some business down on the lower shore, and can justify a week of fun if it is business related! We did the same thing last year and the boys had a grand time swimming in the hotel pool, eating out and just goofing off. My boys are very easy to please... I am so lucky! Unfortunately, there are not any yarn shops that I know of in the OC area, so I will have to stock up with a good project before I go!

New Knit-A-Long

2005-03-08T15:33:00.000-05:00

I just couldn't resist A Good Bias

Technique Link

2005-03-03T14:38:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to make note of a great link for future reference. Katie at Pink Tea recently attended a Deb Mez workshop, "drumcarding for multicolored yarns". She has some great tips and wonderful pictures. I just don't want to forget where this is. Enjoy!

ReCyling FUN!

2005-03-01T11:50:00.000-05:00

Okay, I admit it....I am a thrift store junkie! My new mission in life is to find old sweaters to make into something new. I have always loved the thrill of the search, and the excitement when you find something really good and CHEAP! This passion was ignited several weeks ago, when I happened upon this post in the blog, Layers of Meaning. What a cool idea, making blankets out of recycled, felted sweaters.

Over the weekend, I purchased the spring issue of Interweave Knits. In the magazine, there is an article about recycling old sweaters by not only felting, but also by ripping and then re-knitting the yarn. I loved the purses that were featured, and decided to try my hand at a few.

At my last visit to the local thrift, I brought home an ancient Villager Cable Sweater and a newer GAP fisherman sweater. I felted both, and then started cutting. Here is what I made out of the sleeve of the Cable:

And, here is a cute backpack that was once the body of the Fisherman:

Except for the time spent waiting for felted sweaters to dry, this is immediate gratification!

Mall Inspiration

2005-02-25T12:01:00.000-05:00

Well, DS#2 turns 11 today! Happy Birthday Willy!

In anticipation of the snow storm yesterday, I took off very very early to go Birthday Shopping at the Christiana Mall. I don't go to malls very often, since we live in a rural area, and since it is a 45 minute trip to the mall. It probably also has something to do with the fact that I have three boys, and boys could really care less about shopping - unless it is for electronics.

Well, electronics was what I needed and I ventured to the mall for the APPLE computer store. Willy wants an IPOD for his birthday. Unfortunately, $300 is out of my budget; and, I feel that spending that much on an electronic device for an 11 year old kid is just plain dumb (they lose stuff, they break stuff, etc....) So, I was really pleased to see that Apple had come up with a device that was under $100. That would be the IPOD Shuffle. It was $99 and affordable, so I shuffled up to Christiana, Delaware to purchase one.

I arrived at the mall before most of the stores were open. This gave me time to roam the mall with a cup of Starbucks coffee. One thing became very apparent. GREEN as in GRANNY APPLE GREEN is the "IN" color for spring! Every window in every store featured this color. From kids clothes, to adult clothing to the Pottery Barn Store to Williams Sonoma which was featuring APPLE GREEN Le Creuset crocks!

And, guess what? Here is my son's new Apple SHUFFLE:

Yep, it's APPLE GREEN too!!!!

Once I was safe at home with my gift, I decided to dye some merino yarn I had spun the night before. I threw in some roving just for fun.

Guess what color?

You know it's bad when....

2005-02-23T16:14:00.000-05:00

- you wake up in the morning, and you have a headache right behind your left eyeball
- you get in the car to drive the kids to school, late again, and you realize you are on empty.
- you go ahead and try to make it - and you do with 3 miles to spare
- your youngest realizes its a "Jeans Day" and he forgot to wear jeans and is dressed in regular school clothes...he won't get out of the car...but humiliated he finally does as older brothers snicker at him in their jeans.
- at work you get nothing done...just surf blogs all day and dream of fiber
- at lunch you run by the thrift shop on your daily quest...hoping its "$3 bag day" so that you can buy up old wool sweater to felt and then make something..but it's only $2 a shoe bag day...can you make anything with old shoes?
- you remember you better get gas. and make it to the station. when you leave the lady behind you honks furiously...you look out your window only to see that you have forgotten to screw the cap back on and it is hanging out the side of the car.
- you get out of the car mid intersection and screw the cap back in...
- you pick up your kids and race home thinking about the project you want to work on rather than what to make for dinner, or the fact that the house is a mess...
- your brain hurts so you decide to spin...
- you finally make it to bed, but dream all night about spinning and knitting and CLAPOTIS.....

Spinning Singles

2005-02-22T15:03:00.000-05:00

I love the way my spun yarn spins into singles.

When I ply it, it takes on a new life. This reincarnation is always good, but different than with what I started. Thus, I wanted to try and learn more about spinning singles yarn. Specifically, how to get more of a "balanced single" that would be okay to knit with.

Where does one go if they have any type of knitting/spinning/fiber related question? Knitter's Review, of course!

I checked out their spinning technique feeds and found lots of advice. I decided to follow some of the tips, and went ahead and started to knit some of mine up.

I wonder what I should make with it?

CLAPOTIS ANONYMOUS

2005-02-16T15:55:00.000-05:00

Okay...I am really going to do it. Or am I?

Almost every blog I visit has CLAPOTIS mentioned. Everyone is knitting it. Is it a "must have" for the spring season? Am I missing out on something great?

I love KNITTY and their patterns. I think CLAPOTIS is really cool too. I have even printed out the pattern. I got SO close to ordering yarn from KNIT PICKS that it made my palms sweaty.

But, somehow I found the courage to stop.

My stash is just too big. I have too many projects going. And, I really want to knit CLAPOTIS, but I just can't do it. I must resist.

I need help. I need support. I need CLAPOTIS ANONYMOUS.

Grand Piano & Handspun?

2005-02-16T15:41:00.000-05:00

Help!

Grand Piano & Handspun

There is more...

That is just one room.

My kids think it is "normal" to have Yarn and Roving and Spinning Paraphalia and knitting Books EVERYWHERE. Is there disfunction here?

Quilted Fiber

2005-02-14T13:07:00.000-05:00

Over the weekend, I decided to pull out my sewing machine, and work with the fiber that I had knitted and felted for the tsunami quilt piece. I spent some time getting used to sewing on the felted fiber; and, it definitely got easier, the more you did it. I really liked how the stitches began to define the piece.

The end product sort of resembles the idea I originally had for the project - sort of. Unfortunately, the deadline for getting this to SPAIN would be tomorrow, so I guess I am a little late. I am not sure it is good enough for a quilt to be sold at auction, anyway. I think I will keep working little by little to refine this and to see where it takes me.

And, for some comic relief....
Here are the newest additions to our brood. Spot is the fat black cat who thinks that he is a dog. He will literally pounce upon Daisy, our 5 month old Golden Retriever [what were we thinking?], and wrestle her like a pro. This morning they were going at it, but did take a break to pose for this shot.

And, with regard to the Fantastic February Finish...I am onto project #2...the Merino Turtleneck of my own design. I am down to the last sleeve...it's killin' me but I know I can do it!

The Fantastic February Finish

2005-02-11T13:16:00.000-05:00

We all have them. We all want to finish them...or do we? What can it be?

They are sitting in bags, pushed to the back of the bin, cramped at the bottom of the stash...

Those FORGOTTEN, UNFINISHED PROJECTS we all have tucked away.

I am embarassed to say that I have at least five (5) on needles at this moment. There may be a few that I have snatched the needles away from to - God Forbid! - start a new project.

Well, I have decided to make this month, or what's left of it, the FANTASTIC FEBRURARY FINISH month! I have already finished one project and have PLEDGED to finish one more!

The first one that I have finished was from the Vogue Knitting Winter 2003-2004 Issue.

I started this sweater last year at this time. I wanted to try out Lion Brand Homespun, and thought this looked simple enough. I was smart - knowing how I hate sleeves - and knitted up the sleeves first. The rest of the body was knitted in one piece, which I made it about 3/4 up. Then, I must have gottend sidetracked, and into the "knitting wardrobe" it went, not to see the light of day again until recently. And, ironically, it was the sleeves that saved this project, from the wardrobe of LOST projects. Since I had already knitted the sleeves, I thought, "Why not just finish it."

This is what it's supposed to look like:

You can't see it all that well but the collar is supposed to have fringe off of it. I decided against the fringe, because I am not really a fringey kind of gal. And, have you ever worked with Lion Brand Homespun? Well, if you have you know that the thinner yarn that is wrapped around the thicker (what is that called? I should know it from spinning!) doesn't do a great job of keeping the yarn together, especially when it is cut. Basically the yarn becomes a big Fringing nighmare. SO my sweater has no fringe.

Now, I really like this sweater. I bought a big button like the model has for it, but have been using BROOCHes since it is the year of the Brooch! ( that's what my dh says - who knows?) The yarn is really soft and warm. I was a little worried about pilling (sp?), but it have not had theat problem so far.

So, please join me. Dig out those projects! I challenge you to finish at least one!

More on Worthy Causes

2005-02-09T16:25:00.000-05:00

Willy & his Violin
Originally uploaded by fiberEvolution.

MOTHER HAS SON PLAY ON STREET CORNER FOR MONEY TO SUPPORT HER YARN HABIT...

Just kidding!

On Friday, my son raised $70 in one hour playing his violin at our local "First Friday" celebration of the arts.

The money is to go to the TSUNAMI ORPHANS via his 4-H Club, the Rock Hall Rockers.

Worthy Causes

2005-02-02T15:37:00.000-05:00

The Dulaan Project

Are you looking for a worthwhile project to help children? Well, here is the Knit-a-Long for you. Started by Ryan at Mossy Cottage Knits , this project is collecting hand-knitted items to send to children in Mongolia. It is such a worthy cause, to help needy children who must endure the coldest of winters!

I also have been working on a submission to the The Tsunami Quilt Project.

Here is my sketch of an idea, "Tusnami Hope".

However, figuring out how to translate this into fiber has been a challenge. I have felted some roving and plan to layer it on a knitted then felted background. I am not quite sure if this is going to work.

Valentine Treat For You

2005-02-01T15:10:00.000-05:00

Wouldn't you like something new to do with fun fur? Well, here is my very own pattern for a Valentine Heart Pillow to make for a special sweetheart. It is my first attempt at putting together a pattern....I find that I am much better just knitting, and designing as I go; and, that actually putting on paper what you have done can be difficult! I hope that you will find this as quick and easy to knit and sew up as I did! I made two over the weekend, and my boys have all "ordered" one of their own.

Happy February!

Crafty Weekend

2005-01-31T13:54:00.000-05:00

This weekend was spent finishing up some craft projects.

First, I finished the Vest! How do you like those buttons? It is amazing what a great selection of buttons here are these days! I found these at Jo Ann Fabrics in Dover, DE.

Project #2:

I have been trying to teach myself how to crochet (notice the crocheted edging on that vest! :) ). Since I have accumulated a couple of crochet needles, I decided to sew up a little holder. I found this adorable fabric on sale. It was 99 cents for a fat quarter, which was just enough to generate this little beauty.

Isn't that cute? It took me about 15 minutes to make.

Project #3:

Instant magnets. My youngest son had painted these glass gems over the summer at a science camp. I purchased magnets at the craft store, and then hot glued them to the back of the gem. I also cut out some pictures from the most recent school book order - Sponge Bob and the boy from Unfortunate Events and glued them onto some little gems. The big ones are easier to see. I am going to get some more of those from the Dollar Store and do up some hearts for Valentine's gifts.

And, speaking of Valentine's Day...I have a surprise for tomorrow.

Vest Victory

2005-01-27T13:32:00.000-05:00

Here is the vest I worked up out of some of my handspun yarn. I knitted it all in one piece, working up the back and then down each side separately. Button holes climb up the right front butare difficult to see in the picture. I am now in search of some great buttons to finish it off.

This vest was so quick and easy to knit! I feel very victorious! I think I will try it again, but use a zipper up the front!

The size 11 circular needles I used gave me a 3 stitch to an inch gauge. It took approximately 170 yards of my bulky yarn for the main vest, and another 20 or so for the crocheted edging. It was supposed to fit size 12 months, but looks larger to me. I have printed out knitting standards so as to measure the approximate size when I get home tonight. Both ot my brothers are expecting babies in March....so I will be knitting for baby x2 for awhile.

Toddler Vest

Now, just for fun, here are some pics of what's on the spinning wheel.

New Zealand Wool

Roving Drying on the Radiator

Singles on the Bobbin

Spinning Stash

2005-01-26T13:20:00.000-05:00

My Handspun Stash is growing. What shall I do with all this yummy yarn?

President of War

2005-01-26T11:34:00.000-05:00

I don't usually get political when it comes to my blog. But today has been the bloodiest day for our US Troops in Iraq. As Reuters reported a short time ago, we have now lost 36 more.

While surfing the blogs, I ran across this picture of our War President. It is a photo mosaic of soldiers lost in the war in Iraq. Fibermania explained that soon his entire body will be able to be represented by the dead. Sadly, we are now closer to that outcome.

The pictures "faces of the fallen" used to make this collage can be seen here.

Spinning Wheel

2005-01-25T15:52:00.000-05:00

Spinning Wheel

I joined another ring. The Spinning Wheel Ring!

Guiltless Knitting

2005-01-25T13:52:00.000-05:00

What a wonderful weekend we had. It began snowing a lovely, fine powder on Saturday morning, and by 6:00 that evening when the snow stopped, we had a manageable 6" in our yard. DH was able to get out and have the sidewalk shoveled and driveway driveable by about 8:00 PM. The kids played. My husband shoveled. And, I knitted. It was heaven.

On Sunday we got the call mid-day that school would be cancelled on Monday. The kids were happy; and, I two more guiltless days of knitting ahead. We got off easy in this area. Hopefully, it will melt quickly. Snow is pretty for about 48 hours....and then, I am ready for green fields again!

I have been working on several projects with my handspun yarn. I have SOOO much of it, that I have decided to develop some bulky patterns especially for it. The sweater pictured below is coming along. And, I am working on my own design for a child's vest out of some merino. (Will post pictures later).

What's In Your Bag Right Now?

2005-01-21T10:39:00.000-05:00

IMG_1511
Originally uploaded by fiberEvolution.

On a recent blog outing I ran across a wonderful blog..the soul of hope...which asked the question of the week: What's in your Bag?

Well, since I needed to clean out my bag, I decided to throw it all on the floor and see what I had.

What a mess in that Vera Bradley bag! Notice the two packets of tissue and other crumbled up leftovers...it's flu season. You can never have enough tissue for yourself as well as three other runny noses! There were old grocery lists and receipts. Empty check books. Two lipsticks. Lots of pens...you can never have enough. The Counting Crows CD. Money and loose change - not in the wallet where it is supposed to be. Old ziplock full of grocery cards et al. It is amazing how much stuff can fit into one little bag!

I should have dumped my knitting bag. It is much more interesting!

Golden Yarn

2005-01-20T14:58:00.000-05:00

Golden yarn

I had a little leftover roving and threw it in the microwave after dumping some leftover packets of koolaid. I like the darker goldish orange color.

Sable Yarn

2005-01-20T14:21:00.000-05:00

I finally finished spinning up the dyed roving below. What color did the yarn come out? Well, it was a mixture of grey, brown and pink. I was very unhappy with the color of the roving, but liked it more once it was spun.

I had so much of the yarn (about 800 yards) that I decided to go ahead and knit it up...so I wouldn't have to look at it and feel disappointed.

I was pleasantly surprised with how the yarn knit up. I used a basic Yankee Knitter pattern for the Bulky Sweater. I was going to make a child's large for DS but it ended up too big - just big enough to fit me! What can I say??????

Here is the front of the sweater. I still have sleeves and neck to finish up.

And, here is the back. I used size 10 needles and got about 3 stitches to the inch. The pattern called for 3.5 stitches to the inch.....ACK! Well, it has turned out all right in the end.

It is really quite beautiful with subtle shades of browns, grey, pink and cream. I have to admit that I have been completely amazed at how wonderful this yarn has spun and knitted up. I am also happy with the stripes the dyeing/spinning produced once knitted. It is New Zealand Wool...very very WARM for these snowy days.

Back to Dye

2005-01-12T11:20:00.000-05:00

I ordered another batch of fiber tops from RH Lindsey. I decided to try my hand at dyeing roving again. I received a large crock pot for Christmas, and would like to learn the art of dyeing in it.

Vinegar & Water Start the procedure.

Roving is then placed in the solution.

The roving is layered in the crock and then all dyed up.

I let it sit for about 3 hours on high. Then I let it cool for several hours more.

I started with brown, red and yellow dyes.

What a Mess!

Guess what color it ended up?

Stay tuned.

Quote of the WEEK

2005-01-04T15:12:00.000-05:00

Cleaning out the attic on New Year's Day, 10 yo son remarks while taking in the stash:

"Mommy, you have SO MUCH yarn! Why do you keep buying more?"

Thanks Willy

Needle Felting 101

2004-12-02T13:10:00.000-05:00

What an EASY way to use up odds and ends of fiber, and make quick gifts for the holidays!

Needle Felting 101

These little needles are punched in and out of a bit of raw fiber in order to firm it up and felt it. I found it a great way to use creative energy when my arms were too tired from spinning and knitting!

Frosty was my first project. I started with the head and worked down. I have to say he is really cute!

Santa Ornaments were next. I made a big one (pictured) and a miniature one.

Bunny became an ornament as well. I used Lion Brand Gold 3 ply thread to make a tie on the ornaments.

Last but not least...Felted Soap ~ What a Great Teacher Gift!

I used some Yardly Lavendar Soap that I picked up from my local Dollar Store. That's right ~ this gift cost me a little over one dollar! I found the directions at Mielke's Farm. This project requires wet felting by hand. You will feel really clean once this project is completed!

Needle felting is so much fun that my kids (all boys) got into the act as well. It requires some adult supervision with children, however, as those needles are SHARP!

Here are some other sites I checked out when preparing for these projects:

Felted Lady Bug
Prairie Beary

Have Fun!

Alive and Knitting!

2004-11-11T13:56:00.000-05:00

I made my way to our public library this week for the first time in several months. I had been purposefully staying away out of embarassment after a bad spell of turning in books late and acquiring late fees. The kids wanted to attend a local chess club that meets on Tuesdays after school at the library, and so I was lured back into the world of new books and magazines.

I LOVE the library!

I can't leave without an arm full of books. I especially like the new books, craft books and children's books sections.

On this visit I First perused the kids books with my 7yo. We found a wonderfully funny book by Daniel Pinkwater, The Magic Pretzel: The Werewolf Club #1. I remembered when my older son had read it, and my 7yo was immediately enveloped in the humour of a club full of kids who want to be werewolves. With 7yo being a boy, it is also very important how many pages and how many chapters there are in a book. The MORE you are able to read, the smarter you must be! It helps when, as in this book, there are lots of chapters that are only 1-2 pages each. He was so taken by the book, that he finished it in one evening! This from a kid who was diagnosed with an auditory processing disorder in kindergarten, and who was expected to have major difficulties reading. [...A word of advice for parents of kids who are not reading in Kindergarten - JUST WAIT. I have been through this with 3 kids, DS#1 started reading in first grade, DS#2 started reading at age 3, and now DS#3 is reading unbelievably well, but it did not click until 2nd grade. I can't tell you how worried I was about his never being able to read, and VOILA, all of my worries were in vane! ]

Back to the library....Next I went to the new book shelves. The Knitting Stura: Craft as a Spiritual Practice by Susan Gordon Lydon immediately caught my eye. I snapped it up and have been devouring it each night. I am going to devote a post to the book in the near future because I just love it!

I also picked up Get Crafty: Hip Home Ec. It has been fun to look through, and has a lot of references to knitting, Stitch 'n Bitch groups and even a plug for the blog NOT MARTHA. There are several surveys in the book that you can take to find out what type of craft is for you, or what type of girl group you should attend.

An interesting question on one of the surveys had to do with smoking, asking you if you had ever (a) been or a smoker in the past or were a current smoker; or, (b) if you had never smoked. I had to answer with (a), as I had smoked in high school (bad girl), and college (worse girl) and some as a young adult. The explanation for this question, was that if you answered (a) like I did, you were more likely to be a knitter, or should try out knitting as a hobby. Knitters tend to be ex-smokers (or current - but better be careful about that smelly wool) who are happy to keep their hands busy!

As I thought about smoking and knitting, as well as contemplated Susan Lydon's thoughts on knitting as a spiritual practice, there seemed to be more of a connection for me. If you have never smoked you probably can't relate to this, but if you have enjoyed (I mean really enjoyed) the intoxicating, relaxing feel to sitting silently and smoking a good cigarette, you will relate. I admit that I miss that feeling of enjoying a good smoke. In one way, smoking and knitting did have similar effects on the mind; but, from a physical persepective, common sense has told me that:

Smoking is great for that one cigarette, but it leaves a terrible taste in your mouth, gives you bad breath, and makes your clothes smell bad.
Smoking is really really bad yor you.
Smoking is really really bad for the people around you.
Smoking will kill you.

And so, my imaginary moment with a good cigarette is over, and I am back to knitting.

Knitting keeps your hands busy. It is intoxicating and relaxing. It won't make you sick (unless you knit too much like I do and your arms start to hurt). It won't make the people around you sick - unless they get sick of seeing you knit or you forget to do your chores, or forget to feed your loved ones. As Susan Lydon writes: "The activity itself is satisfying, addictive, absorbing, enjoyable and productive. It is soothing and meditative in nature. And as an added bonus, it results in something useful in the end." Knitting keeps me alive!

$1,000,000 would be nice

2004-11-09T16:20:00.000-05:00

There are times in life when it seems like things just whirl out of control. It's happened to me several times as an adult, and the last few weeks have been like that for me. That's why my posting has been nonexistent.

Thanks for all of the kind thoughts regarding our family. This is the first time that I have experienced a close relative and friend with cancer. It is so hard to know what to say and do. This is a new game with unfamiliar rules. The treatment is so harsh, but the disease is relentless. I am in awe of all of the fighters and survivors out there!

On the knitting front, I have not made much progress on any of my projects. I have been too preoccupied with personal and work related stress. I finished two major work projects today, and thus am feeling a little bit less weighted down. I may actually be able to concentrate on knitting again.

I have to say that it is hard to be down for too long when you have three boys under the age of 13 to provide comic relief. That happened this weekday. My brother-in-law hosted my children to a ride on the tall ships sailing on the Chester River. Afterwards, he treated them to lunch at MacDonald. They came home with sporty caps from the Ship Mildred and Monopoly Boards and Stickers from MacDonalds.

By the end of lunch, the older two had decided that they were going to pool their stickers in order to have a better chance at winning the $1,000,000 grand prize. The youngest felt completely left out. Here is what transpired next:

13yo to Mom: "Mom, when we win the million dollars we have decided to give you five thousand and to give 7yo $1000 daollars."

Mom: "Wow, that's awfully generous of you!"

7yo to 13yo: "That's not fair" and runs from the table up to his room.

Mom goes upstairs to comfort 7yo, trying to rationalize with him about how no one you know ever wins, they only make one winning sticker for the whole world, the odds are terrible etc... but to no avail.

10yo from downstairs: "7yo, 7yo, we have som really good news for you!"

10yo and 13 yo bound into room.

10yo: "We have reconsidered our offer and have decided that we will give you $10,000 dollars. That is enough to buy 100's of x boxes. It is a really good deal. Aren't you happy now?"

7yo thinking - looks dubious.

13yo to 7yo: "Yep, and we are going to give mom and dad $45,000 dollars because they are our parents, and we will give grandma, grandpa and Uncle Stephen another $45,000 but they have to split it three ways. SO, your getting $10000 is actually really good!"

7yo thinking

10yo adds : "And, if you agree to be our servant boy we will throw in an extra $1000."

7yo: "How many x boxes will I be able to buy?"

I went back downstairs and found their computation sheet. It had the $45,000 allotments and the $10,000 allotments all spelled out on one side. I turned the other side over and saw that they had figured their award to be $450,000 each.

What did I learn from that exchange?

It's amazing how one's perspective changes once money enters the picture!
Servant Boy? What is with that?
It's gotta be tough being the youngest!
How heartwarming to think that they didn't forget about their parents, grandparents and uncle.

Meanwhile, I began dreaming about all the yarn I could buy with the $22,500 coming my way!

LIVE STRONG

2004-10-20T16:03:00.000-04:00

Today I am sad. Just received the news that my sil has stage 4 lymphoma. She underwent her first 8 hour round of chemo today 2 weeks after initial dx. At first they though it was stage 1, but yesterday learned that it was in the bone marrow.

We will all try to be strong. My bil asked that we visit http://www.laf.org

Quizilla Finally Gets It Right!

2004-10-18T13:19:00.000-04:00

I have always wondered....what kind of a knitter am I?

Who better than the quiz masters at quizilla to turn to?

You know you can always count on Quizilla to answer those burning questions about life and happiness!

You appear to be a Knitting Guru. You love knitting
and do it all the time. While finishing a piece
is the plan, you still love the process, and
can't imagine a day going by without giving
some time to your yarn. Packing for vacation
involves leaving ample space for the stash and
supplies. It can be hard to tell where the yarn
ends and you begin.

What Kind of Knitter Are You?
brought to you by Quizilla

That even looks like ME! No Lie!

Handspun Heaven

2004-10-14T13:13:00.000-04:00

Tiny Socks from Handspun Singles!

I worked on these little ones during our trip. My handspun is still pretty irregular, but it is so much fun to see how it knits up. Now I know why knitting socks with handspun can turn into its own addiction!

I also visited the Folk Art Studio Cafe in Bowie, MD this week. Thanks to a tip from Carolina, I found my way to this funky, comfy yarn/pottery studio and added to my stash.

My new NORO stash is wonderful fall shades of hunter green, orange and gold.

I also broke down and bought some Clover Bamboo needles - Size 4 - to work on my Harry Potter Sweater. My Denise Needles only go down to a size 5 and I could only put my hands on some Susan Bates 4's. I hate to be a needle snob, but knitting on the Susan Bates needles really started to flare up my carpal tunnel, so I had to stop. I prefer Addi Turbos but living where I do, so far away from yarn shops, you take what you can get in an emergency situation. The bamboo 4's are doing great, and my arms don't hurt anymore! I may actually finish the sweater after all!

2004-10-07T18:09:00.000-04:00

We are off for a weekend with our family in Connecticut. We will be meeting our little niece from San Francisco for the first time. I hope these will fit her!

Weasley Along Ready to Go!

2004-10-06T15:54:00.000-04:00

The Harry Potter Pattern is Here All the Way from England!

This is the yarn that came with it. It is Navy with flecks of light blue. The yarn for the "H" is gold with flecks. The yarn is 90% Wool and 10% Silk. It feels yummy!

I can't wait to start knitting!

Blogging Break

2004-10-05T18:52:00.000-04:00

I haven't posted in a few days because:

1. I caught a terrible cold from my kids at the end of last week. It wiped me out for a couple of days.

2. The camera is on the blink again. Luckily, I bought one of those extended warrenties, so that I can just take it back and get a new one. The only problem is that I live so far away from BEST BUY, so I will have to make a special trip...probably next week I will be going down to Salisbury.

3. I have been trying to read and post comments on all of the fun blogs in the RAOK ring.

Other things I have done:

1. Really cleaned out the rabbit cages and then spent several hours plucking wool. Luckily, my rabbits really seem to like it and don't fuss a bit.

2. Dyed and spun up some hot pink and yellow yarn. Boy it is HOT! I wish I had the camera to post a picture.

3. Attended so many soccer games that I've lost track.

4. Went out to a fancy party over the weekend and wore the side to side ribbon sweater I made out of my yarn from Elann. It is the first FANCY thing that I have made and worn that actually turned out. I got lots of great comments, which really made my night.

Well, that's it for now. We are going away on Friday - up to Redding, CT to visit family. I wonder if there are any good yarn shops along the way? We are always looking for those pit stops...

From Bunny to Scarf

2004-09-29T13:33:00.000-04:00

Bunny + Hand Spindle = Angora Scarf

2004-09-28T12:32:00.000-04:00

This is what I feel like today.

Mother of a Teenager?

2004-09-27T13:11:00.000-04:00

It is official. As of 6AM this morning, I became the mother of a certified teenager. I can't believe it. It was a whirlwind weekend for him. He attended his first junior assembly on Friday night and learned the CHA CHA CHA. He ran in a 1K race on Saturday. On Sunday, he started to change. We went to a family birthday party for him and he was given a leather wallet with $20.00 inside it. And, today as I dropped him off at school, there were two very CUTE girls waiting for him to give him a cheer as he "nonchalantly" departed the mini van. Is this really happening to me? The mother of a 13 year old?

Thank goodness I have frivolous fiber to keep me young at heart! I spent the few minutes I had not tending to kids dyeing and spinning. Here is what I have so far:

Raspberry Domestic 2Ply

Seafoam Romney 2Ply

Lavendar/Gold/Green Multi 2Ply

Mittens out of one of my first hand dye/ hand spun lots.

New Knit Along

2004-09-24T13:21:00.000-04:00

I finally took the plunge and joined in on a knit along.

The Weasley Sweater Along

Since I have a Harry of my own (we actually call him Henry) I thought this would be a great project. I ordered the kit from the same company in England that made the sweaters for the kids in the Harry Potter movie, the Yarn Warehouse.

Back on the homefront, today is DYEING DAY. I have a sink full of tidepool colored roving cooling down. I dyed up one whole pound of Romney wool. Since I am new to this, I wanted to see about how much yarn can be spun from one pound of roving.

My camera is on the blink. I am hoping that it is only a battery problem. I will post some pics once I figure it out.

Close your Eyes and Imagine!

2004-09-23T13:55:00.000-04:00

Thought for the day...

RAOK HAPPINESS

2004-09-23T13:13:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was pretty hectic for me. I made 4 round trips to the school (dropoff, lunch duty, pickup, open house). Each round trip equals 40 minutes of driving. In addition, I had to coordinate getting three boys to two soccer games in two different locations.

Plus, my car was on empty and I had left my cell phone at work. Please note that I live in the country, so it is at least 20 miles to get anywhere or to get gas. And, this prooved to be a problem as I looked at my gas tank computer which indicated that I only had 10 miles left to empty.

It was 7PM and I was supposed to be at the Middle School Open House at 7 PM. I was at least 20 miles away and on empty. I also realized that I only had about $5.00 cash on me and the closest country gas store only took cash.

I pulled in to the gas station and tried to fill up with gas. Vonnie's had upgraded the pumps, and when I tried to fit the gas pump in the hole, it wouldn't fit. I really started to lose it at this point. THe woman in the store kept looking out at me as I tried to push the pump in. Had something happened to the gas lid? Had someone tampered with my car? I ran inside and waved my $5.00 bill and started to explain that the pump wouldn't fit. She just gave me a blank stare and took my money. I ran back out, determined to drip the gas in, when I realized I had been trying to add diesel to my car. Did you know the pumps are made different sizes so that crazy, rushed lunatics like me won't ruin the car?

Well, I got the $5.00 worth of gas, jumped back in the car, and started up. Guess what the tank computer read....13 MILES TO EMPTY. My $5.00 had bought me a whole 3 miles!!! I wanted to cry. It was 7:15 now.

The story continues but I won't bore you. I ended up at a station that would accept a check and got enough gas to get to the school...at 7:45. Not too bad.

As I was driving to school, the only thing that kept me from going completely mad was the thought of Verna's Generous Act of Kindness and the piles of beautiful fiber sitting next to my spinning wheel waiting for a quiet moment of total peace!

Thanks Verna...You really made my day!

The Martha Scarf

2004-09-22T13:10:00.000-04:00

Did anyone see Martha Stewart on TV recently? She is ready to go to jail. Standing before her Board of Directors, and in front of a wall covered with her very own colors, she said just that - she was ready to serve her 5 month stint in DOC (Dept. of Corrections for all who don't know prisoner lingo) ASAP.

Isn't that just like Martha? Just do it quickly and efficiently. I especially thought it was a "good thing" to make the announcement in front of all of those colors.

I really don't dislike Martha Stewart. I don't think that I would ever be good friends with her, but I have met so many women like her - smart, headstrong and egocentric.

I have a subscription to the Martha Stewart Living as well as a subscription to FOOD EVERYDAY and I enjoy both magazines. My DH thinks the current October issue's black cover symbolizes the company's dark mood at present. Every once in awhile, I visit MarthaStewart.Com . Currently, she is having a really big tag sale on the website - guess she is cleaning out her closets before she moves. I also have had fun making sock puppies and popsicle adirondack chairs from recipes in the Kids Magazine.

Recently, while surfing knitting sites, I ran across a pattern for the Martha Scarf. It was inspired by the mink scarf Martha wore at many of her court hearings. Martha might want to consider adding this pattern to the page where her own "Basic Scarf" pattern is listed in her Knitting Projects site. Martha said that she is going to miss her dogs, cats, parrot and even her chickens while she is in jail. I wonder if she will miss her mink scarf too?

Martha Scarf

BLOG PROBLEMS...I need a drink!

2004-09-20T11:02:00.000-04:00

Well, the blog has been down for days now. Friend.ly.net was very friend.ly when I called to inquire. They are having network problems and would be more than happy to call me once the personal web sites were back up on the web. I thanked the friend.ly representative and said that wouldn't be necessary. When I inquired when they thought the sites would be back up, the customer service rep. politely informed not until mid next week. This was last Thursday - 4 whole days ago.

Today, theblog is back up, but not in its most recent form. Somehow, all of my posts are gone, and when I try to republish, it won't work. I can't get into any of the wonderful comments that everyone left about spinning and dying. I am utterly frustrated at the whole affair. I was really getting into a good blogging rhythm.

I was touched by the emails inquiring as to whether or not I was okay...since the blog wasn't there. That was really nice and I do appreciate the concern. I have decided to post at a new internet address, since friend.ly.net seems to be taking forever. For now, I will use:

http://fiberevolution.blogspot.com

I am still trying to figure out about getting pictures onto the blog. So, please bear with me. This mess could drive a person to drink!

And, speaking of drinking....I wanted to show what I found on my kitchen table when I arrived home from work last Thursday...

I was somewhat surprised when I saw what was on the table.

First, there sat the homework that was supposed to be turned in by my DS1 this morning. I had had to listen to him whine about how he had to go to study hall since "I" had made him walk the dog, take a shower, comb his hair, put on a belt, and brush his teeth that morning. He had not had enough time to make sure everything was in his backpack. And thus, it somehow became my fault that that paper is sitting on the kitchen table. What is it about 13 yo boys that they would be perfectly content in going to school in previously worn clothing with stains on the front?

Second, the counter above the table was a huge mess. We had been in such a rush to get out of the house that morning, that one again I neglected my duties as mother, housewife and maid!

Third, what really caught my eye was the case of Miller Genuine Draft sitting smack dab in the middle of the table. I'm wondering not so much about why there is a case of beer on the table, but really why my DH decided to pick up a case of Miller Genuine Draft. I am a MILLER LITE drinker, and so is he now that he is on that Low Carb Diet. But then, I think, WHATEVER....I've been pretty stressed out lately, and it had been such a long day, I might as well get those brewskies chilled.

Then I notice this:

Now I am getting really excited at this point. There is a label on the box! I am also in disbelief. I had ordered some roving from RHLindsay Wool Co. not even 48 hours prior. Could this be my package already??? I'd rather spin than drink anyday!

Fiber!!!

In a Miller Genuine Draft Box!!!

I'll take fiber any way I can get it.

From Roving to Yarn

2004-08-31T19:16:00.000-04:00

I went ahead an spun up two spindles full of the roving. I remembered to draft the roving first, which made the process go pretty quickly. The yarn varied in thickness depending on how much roving was pulled off the original mass. I suppose that as you get better at this, you pull off pieces of roving that are similar in size, and thus your yarn doesn't have such variation.

Here is what I got. After I had two spindles full, I decided to go ahead and ply it together. It was getting late, and I made a terrible mistake. I plied it the wrong way, ie. I used the same spin as when I was spinning it - clockwise. Luckily, I remembered pretty quickly, unwound, and then starting plying in the right direction.

It is super bulky and the colors are dreamy shades of blue, green, lavendar & gold. Not bad for my first try at dying &amp;amp; spinning!

Dying Roving

2004-08-30T16:16:00.000-04:00

There have been a few changes in the evolution of my addiction to all things fiber.

I learned how to SPIN. New worlds have opened up for me! I can spin on my mom's Ashford Joy. And, she lent me her drop spindle to play with!
I bought some angora and spun it up with some cashmere for a lovely scarf. I used the drop spindle. It is wonderful (pictures to come)
I dyed and spun up my first batch of roving. Here are the pics of the dying process:

Roving is dyed and wrapped.

Ready for the microwave steam method.

Rinsing after the steaming. I was worried that I felted the roving at this stage.

Hanging to dry. It is hard to see the colors, but they definitely lightened up a bit.

I am spinning up the yarn now.