Favorite Socks - Embossed leaves (part 1)

I just wanted to post pictures of my new travel knitting project. Once again, sorry for the unclear photo. My budget has not allowed me to replace the dead camera yet. I am still trying to hold off on the credit card usage. So, we are still using the camera phone.

One day last week, I decided to go through all of my loose pennies, and take them to the Coinstar machine. I received an Amazon gift certificate for $29.37. So, I decided to treat myself with my newfound "wealth" to some books. One of which was Interweave's Favorite Socks. Here is my progress on the Embossed leaves pattern, using Colinette Jitterbug yarn (from my stash) in the Marble colorway, and Knitpicks Options size 1 circular needles. This is about 2 16-row pattern repeats into the pattern. They are coming out very nice. The pattern is easy to follow, and it is knitting up quickly.

I also bought Knit2Together, and Fitted Knits. I should be joining the Fitted Knits KAL once I decide which cute sweater I want to make first. I joined the Favorite Socks KAL, but am still waiting for my sign-up verification email.

Also, I wanted to show off some stitch markers that I made for my swapbot partner Deb, now that she has finally received them.

I am so glad that she is really enjoying them. Deb is a professional chef, as you can see on her blog, so I thought it was fitting that her stitch markers reflect that with the utensils attached. The others are just some smaller ones I made to use for her socks, since she belongs to many sock yarn clubs. I know that they will come in handy.

Stitch Marker - Better Picture

I want to personally thank Deborah for being my photographer today. Here are the super-gorgeous stich markers that my swap partner Carrie made for me. Finally, a clear picture, as promised. I just love the little touch of "bling" on the beads. Haha!!

I Feel Soooo Special!!! Stitch Markers Galore!!!

So, this past weekend, I decided to practice maing some more stitch markers, and made some for Deborah while I was at her house, taking a break from knitting. (Stupid me forgot my extra skein of yarn home) Anyway, You can view the pics on her blog, since my camera is still dead. :-(

I was feeling all confident that I have mastered the art of making stitch markers with just wire and beads, and decided to go to the fashion district to pick out some beads and charms for my Stitch Marker Swap partner. I went from store to store, and found exactly what I was looking for at the last one. I will reveal who she is after she receives her treat. Not sure if she reads my blog regularly, and want to keep the mystery about myself.

So, I get home from the city, and what do I see in my mailbox? My Stitch Marker Swap package. Yippee!!! I thought it would be a little box, but this thing had some weight to it. So, before I show off the goods I must thank Carrie from Annandale, VA for sending such a glorious package. She has instantly become my new best friend. Hey long-time friends, don't get jealous. Everybody needs a little love!!!

I must also apologize that the picture quality sucks. Y'all know my situation, and I just don't have the energy to fumble with photoshop tonight.
So, without further adieu......
The package included some pink stationary (not pictured), Pink tape measure (perfect cuz I am always losing mine and bugging Deborah for hers), a Pink Sharpie highlighter (so I can keep my place in my patterns), a Pink lipstick case (to keep my knicknacks, or so my pout is always diva-licious), a needle gauge, and Pink heart shaped post-its. This is perfect because I hate writing in my pattern magazines, but I stick Post-It's EVERYWHERE!!.

Okay, so Carrie has officially spoiled me rotten. The swap called for 5 stitch markers to be swapped, and she sent a whopping 15. I think she just got "Carried away" (hehe) with the fun in making the stitch markers. Beading can get really addicting. I know for a fact, since it is another one of my passions. More on that later.
The picture really does this no justice. I will be sure to re-post once I have a camera that has a decent megapixel quality. The beads are frosted cubes and discs with pink crystals embedded in them, as well as some pink crystal cubes, and I absolutely love the clear glass beads that look like they have pink flowers floating in them. These are going to come in very handy when I start my second (PINK) Central Park Hoodie. I especially love the fact that I have stitch markers for both regular and Chunky needle sizes. So, when I make my Twinkle Bobbled Tunic, I am covered as well. Oooohhhh I am so excited!!!

Carrie, I must say that you did an absolutely stunning job on the stitch markers. They don't look like a "first timer" project. I am impressed and blown away. And to top it off, I have been looking everywhere for those types of rings and can't find them. That is why I have forced... ahem, ...I mean taught myself to make them with wire. Can you take me to your supplier???