Another finished object - yay

In an earlier post I confessed to being a serial 'starter' of projects, and resolved to have a Rule of 3 where I could only have 3 unfinished projects on the go at any one time. And I have (for the most part) managed to stick to this.....only I was of course referring only to my knitting projects- ha ha!! Yep, there are also other types of Un - Finished - Objects lurking in my closets! Back in April I had just started swatching for a new design with some Rowan Summerspun yarn I'd picked up on my travels. I finished the knitting of it a week or 2 ago, but have only just had a chance to block it. Blocking is so important for getting a great finish, particularly with lacy knitting,  and often seems like a mysterious process needing specialist equipment - but the truth is you can keep it pretty simple - I just pin the item in question onto a towel on my work table for most things - though for serious blocking such as for a cobweb lace shawl, then specialist blocking wires are recommended. Up until now I have tended to just use ordinary quilting pins for blocking as these are sturdy and long with large flat heads which can't disappear into the knitting.  Though recently I treated myself to some proper rust proof blocking pins which I've used to block the sharflette (cross between a scarf and shawlette) I designed which has a lace border. Before pinning it out I soaked it in cool water for a few minutes - but more often than not I tend to pin out dry then dampen thoroughly with a plant spray filled with water.





If you've never blocked your knitting, or don't see the point in it, then take a look at the before and after blocking piccies. I hope you agree it really does make a difference on how your stitches 'behave' and shows off the lace patterning to it's best. What you can't tell by a photo though is it also improves the handle of the knitted fabric considerably making it much smother, softer and enhancing the drape significantly.

Before blocking

After blocking

So it's all dressed up and ready to go now but, if you follow me on facebook you will be aware that, I'm now trying to think of a good name for it. Am thinking it would be great for summer evenings outdoors when the temperature drops.....or breezy days on the beach when you want a little extra layer around your neck. I'm also thinking along the lines of 'french village market'..... 

Update: You guys came up with some excellent suggestions for a name, and after much deliberation I went with Sea Holly. The pattern for Sea Holly is available to purchase here.

It's knit with Rowan Summerspun yarn in Greenwich - a mix of pretty turquoises & blues - I've had a few great suggestions already but would love to hear yours! Whoever makes the best suggestion for a name by Friday 12th July can have a free PDF copy of the pattern when it is available (very soon!). To make a suggestion just leave a comment below, or on my facebook page if you prefer. And please do pass on to your friends too :)

If you like the look of lace knitting and would like to develop your skills , then you may be interested in my Lavish Lace workshop in Swansea on 20 June 2015. Lace knitting is undeniably beautiful and has become increasingly popular over recent years, yet many knitters feel daunted by taking on such an apparently complex project. If you have been too afraid of trying lace, or are seeking to further develop you skills in this type of knitting , then this is the class for you. This workshop is ideal for those wishing to develop their fine lace knitting skills, and will provide a foray into all-over lace patterns with the addition of beads using the crochet hook method.