My World This Week

Good morning, knitters! I hope the Holidays are treating you well. There have been a crazy round of parties this week, which is why this post is a day late. I’ve been ho-ho-ho-ing it up since Thursday while attempting to keep all the balls in the air. Whew! It’s been fun!

Yesterday, I got started early and managed to take a walk through the broken heart of the French Quarter, something I love but seldom have time to do these days. It was a glorious afternoon of clear winter sunshine and a breeze with just a hint of crispness.

I parked in the church parking lot and wove my way along the battered side walks to see my friend Susie at Johnny White’s Bar on St. Peter St., one of her many day jobs. When she’s not pouring something, Susie is the quirky mind and hands behind Susie Kates Designs, a line of imaginative crocheted hats. She is constantly crocheting to keep up with the incredible demand for these clever little toppers. She literally cannot keep up!

Look how pretty this is! Thank you so much to the lovely and talented Sarah G., Tipsy Knitter and sample knitter and all-around great gal! This is the Zephyr Cowl which will be released on Friday along with its matching hat. I can’t wait to share this easy intuitive set with you! The hat pattern will be free with the purchase of the cowl pattern.

I’ve been working away on my new True North Hat and Mitten Set, another simple pattern with just a touch of color work. It will be the perfect first stranded knitting project for those wanting to try the technique. I like the retro vibe of this unpretentious little hat! I’m hoping to release this set in the next couple of weeks.

I’ve been thinking about what projects to feature this week. I’ve been focused on small projects that make quick and easy gifts. This week, I’d like to feature mittens! They’re such fun to knit, make great stashbusters and are a pleasure to give away. Starting Friday, the Fresh Snow Mittens, Mercury Mittens, Tess Mittens and Hay Bay Mittens will all be 50% off in my Ravelry shop and in my new Etsy shop. Don’t miss ’em!

This is an interesting group of patterns because each of these toasty pairs focuses on a different technique and construction. There are three different thumb treatments and the Mercury Mittens feature the really cool “lifeline” gusset. I hope you’ll enjoy knitting them! Stop by tomorrow for the release of Zephyr and for lots of great discounts. See you then!