I wanted to make something special for Phil and Aggie’s wedding – something that they could share and cuddle up in. I settled on Jared Flood’s Girasole – a piece of traditional circular lace that can be worked as a blanket or a shawl. It looks much more complicated than it was to knit. The chart sections flew by and the lace was really fun to work. I used Misti Alpaca Pima Cotton & Silk so the blanket would be soft and cozy but not too warm.

What special projects have you made or received as wedding gifts? I have a few more weddings to attend this year and am on the lookout!

[Photos courtesy of Chris]

[Ravelled]

When I first started knitting I was more inclined to make up my own patterns. Sometimes they worked out, other times not so much. I was more adventurous in a way, less focused on proficiency and more on experimentation. I had completely forgotten about an early hat I made for my brother, but when I saw him over the Christmas holidays he told me he still wears it. Since I can barely remember making the hat, I figured it was high time to replace it. Or at least add to his collection!

I decided on Jared Flood’s Turn a Square – a toque with raglan decreases and subtle striping. I used Mission Falls 1824 Wool and Noro Silk Garden. The hat takes less than a ball of each, so it could be a great project to use up some of your yarn leftovers.

Here are some other man-friendly patterns I came across in my search for my brother’s birthday hat:

Windschief (Ravelry link) by Stephen West

Golden Autumn (Ravelry link) by Lucy Sweetland

Koolhaas by Jared Flood

Seaman’s Cap by Brenda Zuk

Thorpe (Ravelry link) by Kirsten Kapur

[Ravelled]

Jane brought me back the loveliest Donegal tweed from Ireland. You can just make out the angora halo in these photos – so soft in colour and texture. I think it turned out to be the perfect choice for Ysolda Teague’s Snapdragon Tam.

I know I’ll love wearing this hat – thanks Jane! And I have some gauntlets planned for the Aran Tweed, also spun in Donegal. Ireland will make a fantastic knitting excursion someday!

[Photos courtesy of Chris]

[Ravelled]

This is an unbelievably tiny sweater. So tiny I’m having trouble picturing a person small enough to fit in it. A six-12 month old Albertan will be wearing it soon enough though! The pattern is from Debbie Bliss‘ The Baby Knits Book. A straight-forward cardigan knit in moss and stockinette stitches with cabling throughout and inset pockets.

I really love these vintage mother of pearl buttons (courtesy of Etsy). And furthering my crusade to dress babies everywhere in luxurious materials, cashmerino aran was perfect for this little sweater! 55% merino wool, 33% microfibre and 12% cashmere. Yummy!