tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48625944031238981492024-03-13T02:48:16.870-07:00Habu Textiles Knit-A-LongOLGAJAZZYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05896148062659829798noreply@blogger.comBlogger89125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862594403123898149.post-17152952911780216082011-11-20T22:31:00.000-08:002011-11-20T22:31:45.198-08:00Fiber Beat #24 "Haiku to Habu" featuring Takako Ueki & Darlene HayesHello Habu Textiles Fans!<br />
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My name is Michael Wade and I produce a podcast called Fiber Beat. I recently interviewed Takako Ueki as well as Darlene Hayes for episode #24, <a href="http://fiberbeat.com/webpage/fiber-beat-episode-24-haiku-to-habu">Haiku to Habu</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mikewade/6343266376/" title="Fiber Beat, Episode 24: Haiku to Habu by >WonderMike<, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6036/6343266376_0b9c1dd72c_m.jpg" width="240" height="240" alt="Fiber Beat, Episode 24: Haiku to Habu"></a><br />
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I'd be ever so pleased to know what you think of the piece. Oh, and be sure to enter the contest we have for two prizes: (1) a yarn tasting sampler of some cool Habu Yarns AND (2) the Fameuse cardigan pattern from <a href="http://knitcook.com/home">Knit Cook</a>. More contest details can be found on the Fiber Beat site and you can continue the conversation in the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/discuss/fiber-beat/1914536/1-25#1">Ravelry Fiber Beat forum</a>.<br />
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Thanks for your time and big thanks to Olgajazzy for granting me permission to post in this forum.<br />
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Cheers,<br />
~Michael Wade (WonderMike on Ravelry)WonderMikehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00537338081677431895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862594403123898149.post-33613158688758398982011-06-26T01:34:00.000-07:002011-06-26T01:34:30.146-07:00Habu Spring Shawl<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIcvutici4IDNvsUgJ-R7_Bkf3R0hO8UgN8YUHKe4PsQMUbg9I-ELso3JyWL5-E70H8QlEzQbI5_Y-m1RSX-T8QrqqTyeLq8D4qME7hlKOGPTnGLwdOFa9YvZfY04f5puu5qZyNBFBV1yF/s1600/kit-83_1+Spring+Shawl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIcvutici4IDNvsUgJ-R7_Bkf3R0hO8UgN8YUHKe4PsQMUbg9I-ELso3JyWL5-E70H8QlEzQbI5_Y-m1RSX-T8QrqqTyeLq8D4qME7hlKOGPTnGLwdOFa9YvZfY04f5puu5qZyNBFBV1yF/s320/kit-83_1+Spring+Shawl.jpg" width="215" /></a></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">A couple of you remember my obsession with this Habu <a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/webfile/kit-83.html">Spring</a> <a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/webfile/kit-83.html">shawl</a>. I looked at it online literally for years, inhibited by the $180 price tag. Somehow I separately acquired the Shosenshi paper linen yarn and the cashmere required for the shawl, and the pattern itself. When I started knitting it, I discovered that I didn't have enough cashmere and that the color I was using was discontinued. I couldn't find it anywhere, or any substitutes that even remotely matched it. I also discovered that I couldn't achieve gauge. <br />
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Jump ahead to Winter 2011 - I found the shawl on eBay for half the price! But by now, I had already bought enough yarn equal to the cost of the kit. I should have just bought it in the first place.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcKqV4cIVIAHqEHHvEK-ar3CkVdMAoR7UUQ4asS7D25I1T9iwJ4Kt18DaG9jpIouQnQ5aTmWev8EyPY_qfvFaVd7wn-wOqMW4-GAydvjprvWEUiB6Mz5LN0bsKoKc3zdlwp72uCFNnSYuH/s1600/IMG_1413.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcKqV4cIVIAHqEHHvEK-ar3CkVdMAoR7UUQ4asS7D25I1T9iwJ4Kt18DaG9jpIouQnQ5aTmWev8EyPY_qfvFaVd7wn-wOqMW4-GAydvjprvWEUiB6Mz5LN0bsKoKc3zdlwp72uCFNnSYuH/s320/IMG_1413.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Anyway, I'm happy to have it. But I'm still not getting gauge in width or length, no matter what I do. Given that it is a rectangular shaped garment, the width isn't as important as length. You see, the leafy panels and stockinette panels are knit separately, then attached by picking up stitches on the edges lengthwise, then joined by a three needle bind off. The knitter should begin first by stringing 121 beads on the yarn used for the bind off, then holding the right side of the pieces on the outside and the wrong side in the middle, bind off, which hides the "wrong side" seam. The beads should be slipped between the stitches.<br />
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Still with me?<br />
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I barely have the patience to write about it, let alone do it. And besides, as I've said, I can't knit the correct gauge for one piece, let alone matching gauge so that the joined pieces aren't skewed. Frankly, <a href="http://celinecrowne.blogspot.com/2008/06/wip-wednesday-coat.html">cutting</a> and rejoining The <a href="http://celinecrowne.blogspot.com/2008/09/coat.html">Coat</a> was easier. So. The plan is to join the panels with hand-sewn chain stitch, picking up the beads as I go along. Fingers crossed.<br />
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I still expect the unexpected with this shawl. Stay tuned.</div></div><br />
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08100129333721277712noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862594403123898149.post-87734147261481289902010-11-10T15:33:00.000-08:002010-11-10T15:33:29.334-08:00Habu Hempathy Skirt Pattern<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14146738@N00/4529780746/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Habu Hempathy Skirt by avaruth, on Flickr"><img alt="Habu Hempathy Skirt" height="375" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4036/4529780746_db72ef002c.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
I finally finished writing the pattern for my Ralph Rucci-inspired Habu Hempathy Skirt. It is on my <a href="http://celinecrowne.blogspot.com/p/knitwear-designs.html">Knitwear Designs page</a>. There's only one pattern there now, but there are more to come. Many, many, <em>many</em> thanks to <a href="http://mydzire.blogspot.com/">Deb</a> and <a href="http://www.olgajazzzy.blogspot.com/">Olga</a> for their much needed advice, editing, and modeling. The original post can be found <a href="http://celinecrowne.blogspot.com/2010/04/habu-hempathy-skirt.html">here</a>.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08100129333721277712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862594403123898149.post-77021173720532967072010-08-14T07:56:00.000-07:002010-08-14T08:19:04.869-07:00Infinite Loop<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i>Originally posted at Olgajazzy<br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:6;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-style: normal;font-size:19px;"><br /></span></span></i></span><div><div>This past June while it was a rainy season in Japan I've got to travel back to the States for TNNA and honestly it was lots of work and fun at the same time... More on that later, on how many wonderful designer friends I've got to see and meet as well as yarn shop owners who are thrilled as I am about <a href="http://oriamiknits.com/">our book Ori Ami Knits:Fiber Geometry</a>! So excited, that we actually sold out and now we are on our second edition folks!!! And pre-orders are up again!! This makes me incredibly happy, that people of the industry and knitters found the designs and contents to their taste! We couldn't have done it without you, I know we couldn't have!! So Thank You for your support!!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Amidst travel I have been working on lots more new patterns, but this wonderful weather of 90-100F has been a big distraction recently. As we live relatively close to the beach now...trying to enjoy some of those hot days there. </div><div><br /></div><div>Today I am going to share with you a new design I have introduced at TNNA called <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/infinite-loop">Infinite Loop</a>. I am particularly excited about this one as it got tremendous response and it's something I've always wanted to have in my wardrobe. It can be worn in over 15 (!!!) ways. It's lightweight enough to carry around in a purse and has no season to it! Moreover this garment is set to launch my wholesale line of patterns. Means that if you are a yarn shop and would like to carry Olgajazzy patterns, you now can! Just contact me.</div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4136/4756610964_243d09b89a.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div>It's knit using light fingering or heavy laceweight yarn, in my case I've used <a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/webfile/n-35a.html" target="_blank">Habu Textiles N-35A</a>, which is 100% rayon with viscose sizing but only comes in <a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/webfile/n-35.html" target="_blank">2 colors</a> for time being, insane in yardage, very affordable and possibly a perfect marriage for this design and yarn. It comes in a skein and feels very wire-y and crisp, but wait till you soak it in water and let is dry, it has features of bamboo silky drape but yet still holding that crisp structure.</div><div><br /><center><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4082/4755970985_90b5c3dd88.jpg" /></center><br />But if you would like to use your stash this yarn would be easy to substitute because of the ginormous lace yarn market we have, if it would be for another Habu Textiles yarn it can be <a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/webfile/a-174.html" target="_blank">A-174 Cotton Gima</a>, but out of other generic yarns how about my new personal favorite <a href="http://www.madelinetosh.com/yarns-prairie.html" target="_blank">Madelinetosh Prairie</a>. I must say I've been replying some folks on Ravelry considering their yarn choice for this, so please if you need help or advice, please don't hesitate to email me to PM or leave a comment, I would love to assist you if I can!</div><div><br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4119/4756607290_3540d5de17.jpg" /><div><br /></div>The pattern I've written to accomodate 16 sizes ranging from 28-58" bust sizes.</div><div>Needle size: US 3 (3.25 mm)</div><div>Gauge: 24 sts and 36 rows in 4" over Stockinette Stitch</div><div>Yardage required: 2280-4560 yds<br /></div><div>Pattern price: USD $10</div><div><br /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/purchase/olga-buraya-kefelian-designs/39326"><img src="http://www.ravelry.com/images/shopping/buy-now.gif" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>[<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i>A little note here, some were asking why the price is so high for this, but I have a simple reply. When you have a piece of clothing you can wear so many possible ways - this is a bargain. If you buy a single pattern, it can only be worn the way it was meant to be. Even if out of 15+ ways to wear Infinite loop you only like 2-3 ways, you still win!]</i></span></div><div><br />All possible pictures won't fit into any blog post. So for that reason pattern pdf has variations documented on a dress form. Please check the styling video below how many ways this garment can be worn. Funny thing is, since I've made this video, I've found at least another 2 ways! SO please experiment!!<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/9-0KkbZ4CvM?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/9-0KkbZ4CvM?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:15.8333px;">Now onto more pattern writing and knitting! Mata-ne!</span><br /><br /></div></div>OLGAJAZZYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05896148062659829798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862594403123898149.post-36900524059172500882010-05-16T06:47:00.000-07:002010-05-16T06:54:12.033-07:00Paper out of Linen<span style="font-style: italic;font-size:85%;" >originally posted at <a href="http://www.oriamiknits.com/blog/?p=827">Ori Ami Knits blog</a></span><br /><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><img style="width: 333px; height: 500px;" class="aligncenter" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1047/4611061189_7a30096f52.jpg" alt="Habu Textiles A-60" /></p><br /><br />I am not sure how did it start for many of you, but my first Habu Textiles yarn was <a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/webfile/a-60.html" target="_blank">Shosenshi Linen paper</a> that I purchased back in 2006 from <a href="http://www.knit-purl.com/store/pc/Habu-Textiles-Shosenshi-Linen-Paper-Yarn-A-60-30p2125.htm" target="_blank">Knit Purl store online</a>. How do I remember? I have just found my receipt the other day. It was funny that I was actually looking for a raffia like yarn.. and I really didn't know what I was getting myself into. When it has arrived it took me 3 hours to gently wind it by hand, as at that time I didn't own yet a swift or a ball-winder. The feel of it really surprised me, it was much thinner and more fragile than I would want from this "raffia" to be. So my crochet swatch of it really didn't do what I needed. I put it in the basket thinking what a fiasco... Only later to find out what a treasure I had acquired for my stash.<br /><br />I know I have heard many stories later that people had purchased yarns like that from Habu textiles and not knowing what to do with it. But with time I have learnt - you can pair that yarn with anything or knit by itself and get an amazing result. This is what yarn from Habu Textiles was all about. Create your own with an array of their yarns to find one in particular you love.<br /><br />Swatch above made using 4 different colors of A-60 on 4mm needle knit only with a single strand of it.<br /><p style="text-align: left;">This season starts with a linen paper additions. Thinner (2mm) version of Shosenshi Linen N-67B has joined the team, it is still rustles as you knit with it and still has all the features of the A-60, but now you can incorporate it with with lots of other tiny threads or work it on its own as shown in a charcoal swatch below, knit single-stranded on 3.25mm needle.</p><br /><p style="text-align: left;"><img style="width: 398px; height: 266px;" class="aligncenter" title="Habu Textiles N-67B" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3410/4611060675_9c4fc81e6e.jpg" alt="" /></p><br /><p style="text-align: left;"></p><br /><br />And a thicker addition of Linen paper has also made appearance in a face of N-70, which represents 3 linen paper strands individually twisted, then plied together to create one yarn. It gives it rather chunky weight and can certainly suit those who love quicker results on bigger needles. Swatch in brick color below is made using 5.5mm needle and is also held single-stranded.<br /><p style="text-align: left;"><img style="width: 399px; height: 265px;" class="aligncenter" title="Habu Textiles N-70" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4034/4611670522_035b72db0e.jpg" alt="" /></p><br /><br />While doing some research one can find out that traditionally paper, linen paper has been used in kimono weaving in Japan for centuries. Paper has this amazing feature of heat insulation (for a laugh, bums on the street stuff their jackets with newspapers to keep warm, rather dorky correlation, but it has a point). And on the subject how is it made.. flax is ground into cellulose-like mass and then strung into a flat tape that is later re-enforced with sizing/starch like glue. Garments created with this yarn are air light, if handled wrong this yarn can give you couple paper cuts, so be careful. But overall it is an amazing experience to try knitting with this one-of-a-kind material. You feel like a part of some secret club. It would sing in your hands, just give it a tune and listen.OLGAJAZZYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05896148062659829798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862594403123898149.post-33027212514191710112010-04-18T12:45:00.000-07:002010-05-16T06:55:14.410-07:00Habu Hempathy Skirt<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:x-small;"><em>also posted on my blog,</em> <em><a href="http://celinecrowne.blogspot.com/">When a Door Closes...</a></em></span><br /><br />I always start things a bit late. I didn't know there was a Ravelympics 2010 until two days into the Olympics. Without a second thought, I jumped up and grabbed some yarn out of my stash and began knitting this skirt. To be fair, the concept for this skirt had been stewing in my mind for a while. It was inspired by a Ralph Rucci collection and Habu stainless steel. And I needed a black skirt. I quickly knit a swatch, determined the gauge, then cast on, using US4 Addi Lace Weights. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14146738@N00/4529780746/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Habu Hempathy Skirt by avaruth, on Flickr"><img style="width: 460px; height: 346px;" alt="Habu Hempathy Skirt" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4036/4529780746_db72ef002c.jpg" /></a></div><br />The body of the skirt is knit with black Elsebeth Lavold Hempathy. (I don't know why it looks blue in the photos.) I will probably use Habu Tsumugi Silk next time. The transparent bands are Habu Silk Stainless Steel. They are placed to create the effect of a short skirt, offset by the below-the-knee total length. I wanted somethiing conservative for work but not matronly. It also had to be modest when sitting. The skirt is knit in the round, has a provisional cast on hem, and an elastic waist band. A simple and quick knit, completed within the two weeks of the Olympics.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14146738@N00/4529760262/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Habu Hempathy Skirt by avaruth, on Flickr"><img alt="Habu Hempathy Skirt" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4070/4529760262_5b78199ebd.jpg" width="375" height="500" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14146738@N00/4529760186/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Habu Hempathy Skirt by avaruth, on Flickr"><img alt="Habu Hempathy Skirt" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4072/4529760186_1d615c250a.jpg" width="375" height="500" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14146738@N00/4529780218/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Habu Hempathy Skirt by avaruth, on Flickr"><img alt="Habu Hempathy Skirt" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4011/4529780218_62497e568b.jpg" width="375" height="500" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14146738@N00/4529148945/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Habu Hempathy Skirt by avaruth, on Flickr"><img style="width: 454px; height: 341px;" alt="Habu Hempathy Skirt" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4045/4529148945_59011687a5.jpg" /></a></div><br />I am pleased with the outcome. My model/knit-sibling <a href="http://mydzire.blogspot.com/">Deb</a> makes it look even better. I'm grateful that she agreed to model it for me, and had the patience to endure the twenty or so shots I made. Thanks, Deb!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08100129333721277712noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862594403123898149.post-5664265732821630882010-03-19T00:10:00.000-07:002010-03-19T02:56:19.526-07:00:: Ori Ami Knits ::For the past year <a href="http://olgajazzzy.blogspot.com/" target=_blank>me</a> and Vanessa Yap-Einbund of <a href="http://coloursknits.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">coloursknits</a> along with Kirsten Johnstone of <a href="http://assemblage.typepad.com/assemblage/" target="_blank">assemblage</a> - knitting bloggers have been working on a publication. This is a new and daring project - <a href="http://www.oriamiknits.com/blog/?page_id=9" target="_blank">a self-published book of patterns</a> all made using <a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/" target="_blank">Habu Textiles</a> yarn that we all have turned to love through the years for its amazing features. We have taken up entire process, not just the designs, but production, photography, layout - literally everything. One would question why? Answer is simple, we just wanted to make sure that our original vision and concept was delivered in the final result just as we have planned it. We have learnt a great deal during this endeavor and it is ready to be shared.<br />Ori Ami Knits: Fiber Geometry<br />Ori (jap.) - weave, fold, <br />Ami(mono) (jap.) - knit, knitting<br /><br />The whole idea behind and details of the book aspect you can find on <a href="http://www.oriamiknits.com/blog/?page_id=8" target="_blank">our website</a>.<br />The book has been divided into 4 chapters. "<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/oriamiknits/sets/72157623466485815/">Practical Geometry</a>", "<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/oriamiknits/sets/72157623591023592/">Subtle Layers</a>", "<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/oriamiknits/sets/72157623591027958/">Dimensional Folds</a>" and "<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/oriamiknits/sets/72157623591032248/">Nautical Structures</a>". Here are several garments sneak peaks below:<br /><br /><center><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/oriamiknits" target=_blank><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2688/4410866488_203c5c3966_m.jpg" /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4005/4410865446_b7e49bbda3_m.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4063/4410098155_34367c69bb_m.jpg" /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2751/4410098233_ae9bc671cd_m.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4014/4410865544_42c5c6e51c_m.jpg" /><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2587/4410854820_77e329b8a1_m.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4004/4410098979_122f4795e8_m.jpg" /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4040/4410098835_c66564df78_m.jpg" /></a></center><br /><br />Just a few crucial details. We really wanted to make this book available and interesting to a wide public, so all garments have instructions for 10 sizes. The digital book has been already published digitally and print version is on the press. Currently you can <a href="http://www.oriamiknits.com/blog/?page_id=12">subscribe to the book</a>. How you can benefit from subscription? You receive 2 exclusive patterns that are not going to be in a print version of OAK. Please refer to our <a href="http://www.oriamiknits.com/blog/?page_id=699" target=_blank>FAQ list</a> if you have questions on more details. And though I have been knitting non-stop for the past year, I honestly want to make some of these again, so I can enjoy wearing them during long summer, from what I hear, in Japan.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/ori-ami-knits/patterns" target="_blank">Ori Ami Knits on Ravelry</a> (requires login)<br /><br />If you are a yarn store and wish you carry print version of Ori Ami Knits in your store, please email us info@oriamiknits.comOLGAJAZZYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05896148062659829798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862594403123898149.post-77368705249654743312009-11-06T13:08:00.000-08:002009-11-06T13:18:10.015-08:00Habu Headquarters VisitLast Tuesday <a href="http://coloursknits.blogspot.com/" target=_blank>Vanessa</a> and <a href="http://olgajazzzy.blogspot.com/" target=_blank>I</a> took a ride to New York city to visit Habu Textiles showroom and meet up with the owner, Takako Ueki. We wanted to show her what <a href="http://oriamiknits.com/" target="_blank">we have been up to for the past year and what we turned the gorgeous yarns</a> into that she had started bringing into United States almost a decade ago. Since our last visit the showroom has changed a little and had acquired some new things to exhibit.<br /><br /><img style="width: 386px; height: 255px;" class="alignnone" title="Habu textiles showroom" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2526/4080289939_aab5d1d017.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br /><img style="width: 387px; height: 257px;" class="alignnone" title="Showroom floor" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2597/4081050622_ac1bc3d73e.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Being there feels very invigorating and inspiring, it's like a vortex of inspiration that is consuming you entirely and you have to, absolutely have to come out with a mind full of new ideas for exciting knitwear design! <strong><a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/" target="_blank">Habu textiles</a> </strong>provides you with a very tactile experience.<br /><br /><img style="width: 389px; height: 258px;" class="alignnone" title="Linen Paper Basket" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3487/4080285617_1142de8b71.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />We saw some new linen paper experiments dyed in indigo, which you can see above, the shades are absolutely intriguing! This yarn is not going to be carried in their regular line though.<br /><br /><img style="width: 384px; height: 256px;" class="alignnone" title="Dyed Linen" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2736/4081043936_0a910803b8.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />And if you remember<strong><a href="http://www.oriamiknits.com/blog/?p=164" target="_blank">this linen</a></strong>, we have learnt that now it is being produced in various fantastic colors! Just look at the basket above.<br /><br />Takako explained, that she has brought a lot of new yarns in and going to introduce them at TNNA in Long Beach in January 2010. But some of them are already available in the showroom. Visiting the showroom is worth it if you are in NYC, just to look through the baskets on the floor that quite often contain amazing bargains! Making a choice is what usually would take most of your time along with fondling the silk and other exotics!<br /><br /><img style="width: 383px; height: 256px;" class="alignnone" title="Yarn floor" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2673/4080288767_0408e0aaf6.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />But don't be discouraged if you haven't seen what you absolute have to have, you probably simply haven't found it yet. I realized that getting a yarn catalog is a great way to learn about yarns and inspect them under different lighting. You may also want to grab a couple of bargain mystery bags that contain various yarn, so you can swatch and pair up together to get the texture you like.<br /><br />Concept of this yarn line is exploration. It needs to be swatched and handled, washed and pondered over. Then it would "speak" to a knitter what it wants to become!<br /><br /><img style="width: 381px; height: 255px;" class="alignnone" title="A-184 natural cover cotton" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2609/4081044822_ecd4634a09.jpg" alt="" />OLGAJAZZYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05896148062659829798noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862594403123898149.post-27451984681104029332009-09-14T13:50:00.000-07:002009-09-14T13:51:51.098-07:00Lace Textured Shawl - Habu Textile A-1B Kakishibu Tsumugi Silk<p align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kk_knitbuddies/3913410318/"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2638/3913410318_6ae6808190.jpg" border="0" height="500" width="375" /></a></p><br /><p>Pattern: Lace Textured Shawl<br />Fiber: <a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/webfile/a-1b.html">Habu A-1B Kakishibu Tsumugi Silk</a><br />Colour: 52 - 4 balls<br /></p><p>This Shawl started during <a href="http://knitbuddies.blogspot.com/2009/06/kitty-happy-sumer-soltice.html">Summer Solstice</a> as I took part in the observation of <a href="http://www.candle-night.org/english/index.html">Candle Night.</a> I had wanted to be able to take it in my bag for a brainless project during a convention, but it grew to much those first couple of nights and ended up on the back burner.<br /></p><p>This pattern began is't life as a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Orlane/textured-shawl-recipe"> textured shawl recipe shawl</a>, but it took on a life of its own. I had just finished a <a href="http://knitbuddies.blogspot.com/2009/07/kitty-new-fo-textured-shawl-recipe.html">textured shawl recipe shawl in indigo hand spun</a> and wanted something a little lacier. So I started to throw in random <a href="http://knitbuddies.blogspot.com/2009/06/kitty-working-on-new-sweater.html">faggot stitches</a>. The pattern is made up of a combination on 8 lace patterns and stockinet rows in decreases row counts.<br /></p><p>This was the first time I had used the <a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/webfile/a-1b.html">Habu A-1B Kakishibu Tsumugi Silk</a> and I absolutely love the fiber. I used two strands of the yarn held together, but due to the fineness of the yarn it still achieve a lacey appearance. The yarn is rather stiff when blocked and does seem to bleed out a lot of dye when soaked. I will be interested to see if it gets softer with use this fall. </p><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kk_knitbuddies/3913403166/"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2528/3913403166_e81b2747db.jpg" border="0" height="500" width="375" /></a><br /></p><p> </p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kk_knitbuddies/3912615127/"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2484/3912615127_43268684b7.jpg" border="0" height="500" width="375" /></a><br /></div><p align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kk_knitbuddies/3912619873/"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3469/3912619873_f5e4c33cac.jpg" border="0" height="375" width="500" /></a></p>kitty kittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14130283838680329206noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862594403123898149.post-34581164198172955842009-08-18T08:24:00.000-07:002009-08-18T09:35:57.248-07:00:: in Love with Stainless Steel ::Just the other day I have noticed on kpixie website the arrival of new Habu Textiles A-20/21 Silk wrapped stainless steel yarn in amazing new colors! Check <a href="http://kpixie.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=35_54_409&osCsid=4e405539f25d0cde4fca7e797d10dda8" target="_blank">them out</a> yourself and think what a great range is given now!<br /><br />I want to share today my favorite jacket, that took me less time to knit on small needle than to sew, but the result!!! It is stunning, it took 2 colors of A-20/21 : lavender and grey and every time someone asks me about it, they admire the fiber content, but yet are very stunned by amazing look.<br />This is <a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/webfile/kit-24.html" target=_blank>Kit -24</a> in M size.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3572/3653933061_81868ab2fc.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3330/3654731326_c2c82f5a8b.jpg" /><br /><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3537/3653934675_0846c9fe2a.jpg" /><br /><br />Fall in love with Habu Textiles all over again and though this jacket took me a while I am certainly planning out the colors on another one!OLGAJAZZYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05896148062659829798noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862594403123898149.post-32344425633599391222009-07-19T09:11:00.000-07:002009-07-19T09:17:56.992-07:00Fountain Pen ShawlI was so happy to finally be able to use my Habu stash for something!<br /><br />I combined Habu's Wool/Linen A-175, and Silk Mohair A-32B for the Fountain Pen Shawl.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq0wJoboaE-6aEun0JuCCKDIQJma0AjxsN6AgJC1Mspq75r5Enie8O7BgBtoJ_20fA0tyqp5hgMu1b0OQylq__sav0jV7eiYHxc-GBW9fairtMxPkOn3u80CTMK7hKlFzJxkO127szoeDx/s1600-h/Fountain+Pen+Shawl+(2+of+2).jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 197px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq0wJoboaE-6aEun0JuCCKDIQJma0AjxsN6AgJC1Mspq75r5Enie8O7BgBtoJ_20fA0tyqp5hgMu1b0OQylq__sav0jV7eiYHxc-GBW9fairtMxPkOn3u80CTMK7hKlFzJxkO127szoeDx/s320/Fountain+Pen+Shawl+(2+of+2).jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360205636622527074" /></a><br /><br />Truth be told, I ran out of the A-175, and had to improvise. I think the mohair adds a nice ruffley edge.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk0PloU9tMgqpwdvvuZ5KzNKnmjl5XHWxJlaWs7pNmIMnPbEFASXf1H4IFyw8ZGD7Zk01E77qUkoJOgmzcXJpLc_4Di57hYbh9zyEkEbWojvUjWc2nukx0GxaPQEuy6GgkbqbN0uWMBycW/s1600-h/Fountain+Pen+Shawl+(1+of+2).jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk0PloU9tMgqpwdvvuZ5KzNKnmjl5XHWxJlaWs7pNmIMnPbEFASXf1H4IFyw8ZGD7Zk01E77qUkoJOgmzcXJpLc_4Di57hYbh9zyEkEbWojvUjWc2nukx0GxaPQEuy6GgkbqbN0uWMBycW/s320/Fountain+Pen+Shawl+(1+of+2).jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360206123197531762" /></a><br /><br />What do you guys think?mishi2xhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07111758406696242873noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862594403123898149.post-43529108711685062472008-10-13T10:10:00.000-07:002008-10-13T10:13:49.025-07:00Habu Bamboo Pullover<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3048/2936122344_264585a530_b.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3048/2936122344_264585a530_b.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Pattern: mine<br />Yarn: Habu bamboo XS-32 20/18, Color Charcoal (4), 6 skeins<br />Needles: US 4 Addi Turbos<br /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/yarnmonster/habu-bamboo-pullover">Ravelry link</a><br />I finally took some photos!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3170/2936110156_aa1c306df6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3170/2936110156_aa1c306df6.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>I love this yarn!!! It is one of the nicest yarns I have ever used, smooth and silky and soft. It is also heavy and drapey, so it's not really appropriate for anything that needs stitch definition, or to hold a defined shape. But it falls over the body like a sheet of water--it's delicious to wear.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3228/2936106936_ab218d5460.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3228/2936106936_ab218d5460.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>So, I made this pattern up as I went, specifically for this lovely yarn, with some preliminary drawings, and a general idea in my head. I took no notes, and re-did the neck twice, so I'm sort of fuzzy on specifics. A couple of people have asked, however, for a clue to its general construction, so I've tried to describe it <a href="http://yarnmonster.blogspot.com/2008/10/habu-bamboo-pullover.html">here</a>.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3242/2936104258_74102fe705.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3242/2936104258_74102fe705.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a> This is one of my favorite knits, much due to the gorgeousness of the bamboo yarn, but it took me a while to come up with something that was really right for such a heavy yarn. Yay for Habu!!! How I love them.... ;)<br />Cross-posted at <a href="http://yarnmonster.blogspot.com/2008/10/habu-bamboo-pullover.html">Yarnmonster</a>.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862594403123898149.post-64483956218807935812008-10-07T20:43:00.001-07:002008-10-07T20:50:50.912-07:00Kit 86Started swatching for it. Had to go to a size 0 needle and needed something pointy so tried knitpicks metal circulars after bamboo made me crazy.<div><br /></div><div>At first it seemed like knitting with an invisible thread but after about ten rows I got really into it and am excited about starting the cardigan. its amazing that something so cobweb quickly feels quite substantial when knit.</div><div><br /></div><div>I have not seen this made up (have to find a trunk show) and wonder if anyone has made it?</div><div><br /></div><div>Although the dimensions say it should fit me, i suspect it is supposed to be very loose and on me it will be more form fitting--any thoughts on whether I should make it larger or just do the first one as written (which is my inclination.) I can always make a gift of it. I have a 44 bust and the pattern is 45 inches buttoned--although i usually keep cardigans open. Also wonder how the assymetric fold on front will look if i have it opened or maybe just button one or two buttons.</div><div><br /></div><div>any suggestions appreciated</div><div>Sandy</div>Sandyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11813641893562703972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862594403123898149.post-84159141834626906562008-09-30T19:23:00.000-07:002008-09-30T19:27:05.962-07:00Washi and Tsumugi Coat<span style="font-size:85%;"><em>Also posted as The Coat on my blog, <a href="http://celinecrowne.blogspot.com/">When a Door Closes...</a></em></span><br /><br />I finally finished The Coat. I was determined to take it to Moscow because I didn't have much else to wear. So I did the minimum finishing possible, i.e. just enough to hold it together and not have strands of yarn showing (shame, shame!). I have not woven in the yarn on the interior pockets. It still has no buttons and I didn't do the slip-stitch edging as instructed.<br /><br /><p align="center"><a title="Sept 30 2008 037 by avaruth, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14146738@N00/2903545028/"><img height="500" alt="Sept 30 2008 037" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2322/2903545028_50a3f27135.jpg" width="375" /></a></p><br />I love it, even though I suspect that all the alterations I had to do to it caused my summer-long knitting hiatus. I love it, though I wish the collar would stand up more like this all the time. A little starch maybe?<br /><br /><p align="center"><a title="Sept 30 2008 024 by avaruth, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14146738@N00/2902653035/"><img height="375" alt="Sept 30 2008 024" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3130/2902653035_27ff58fe72.jpg" width="500" /></a></p><br /><p align="center"><a title="The Coat by avaruth, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14146738@N00/2902619223/"><img height="500" alt="The Coat" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3057/2902619223_5708c87b7a.jpg" width="375" /></a></p><br /><br /><p align="center"><a title="Sept 6 2008 004 by avaruth, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14146738@N00/2903566778/"><img height="500" alt="Sept 6 2008 004" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3015/2903566778_69377b0b8d.jpg" width="375" /></a></p>I love wearing it with slacks, and full skirts, and pencil skirts. It dresses up with a crystal brooch as a closure for the ballet or dresses down swinging open with a pair of jeans. I love it with turtlenecks and v-necks. I love it with pearls and I love it with tiny Russian icon pendants. It travels well and dries nearly overnight.<br /><br /><strong>Pattern:</strong> Washi and Tsumugi Coat, <em>Hand-Knit Works</em>, by Setsuko Torii<br /><strong>Yarn:</strong> Habu Shosenshi Paper and Habu Tsumugi Silk, knit together.<br /><strong>Needles:</strong> US 6 Addi Lace Weights (perfect for the paper and silk)<br /><strong>Mods:</strong> I will make it again, but I've learned a few things. I knit the top as one piece, which meant no shoulder seams and makes it more comfortable to wear I think. I knit straight across the back, which would have eliminated grafting had I been more mindful of the size. I will make the sleeves longer next time. It has always been necessary to extend the length of the sleeves on most of my garments and I simply forgot this. As is the sleeves are 3/4 length, which actually works out just fine, but I wish I had been more aware. The pattern was an X-Large, I think, rather than a Large as the pattern was labeled. I will be more mindful of size and fit as I knit next time.<br /><br />Nicole: I would be happy to help if you have resumed working on your Coat. You can post here or e-mail me at Ava.R.Smith AT Gmail.com. I would be happy to answer other questions too.<br /><br /><p align="center"><a title="Sept 30 2008 003 by avaruth, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/14146738@N00/2903584780/"><img height="180" alt="Sept 30 2008 003" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3067/2903584780_ca13797ed2_m.jpg" width="240" /></a></p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08100129333721277712noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862594403123898149.post-53970751368798335962008-08-09T03:58:00.000-07:002008-08-09T04:19:23.613-07:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3k9d8oZB0h29VfFDdMeIEtBEsxB2z778KTCziQMdUc3svl4n8cECnBSYArJ-ajg9BMjIBBaG9tVLtLZjXBcrPfHdhIzBo3Yh4n-7b7pbFed3jjxRPFYiWg7oqYz-h5PZsq96OkvLJ1mI/s1600-h/me,stella.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5232472199769289778" style="CURSOR: pointer" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3k9d8oZB0h29VfFDdMeIEtBEsxB2z778KTCziQMdUc3svl4n8cECnBSYArJ-ajg9BMjIBBaG9tVLtLZjXBcrPfHdhIzBo3Yh4n-7b7pbFed3jjxRPFYiWg7oqYz-h5PZsq96OkvLJ1mI/s400/me,stella.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Not a Habu kit-this is<a href="http://designsbyblackdog.blogspot.com/2007/06/stella-youll-need-6mm-us-10-needles-and.html"><em> Stella</em></a><em>...</em>made with Habu textiles shosenshi linen paper and tsumugi silk.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Crz7_T7cJ7jvWH0A0BOTuepzYiICDeJJBKRJRkGbK5XGvexgiaGck7H-9AAFLRg9QPMHfK-N8bypuz-bzm5xRIpDSyQzHVPfHxGNpePXygTHr-FJMTwZhsU7eYfTsQpCPsVf-TJVmVE/s1600-h/bottoms+up.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5232472206142930978" style="CURSOR: pointer" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Crz7_T7cJ7jvWH0A0BOTuepzYiICDeJJBKRJRkGbK5XGvexgiaGck7H-9AAFLRg9QPMHfK-N8bypuz-bzm5xRIpDSyQzHVPfHxGNpePXygTHr-FJMTwZhsU7eYfTsQpCPsVf-TJVmVE/s400/bottoms+up.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />the colorway is dark red and eggplant,which blends into a deep rich color.The sweater is light and airy,perfect for the summer,but will easily transition into the fall and winter...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAvIyDxc3n65E_UEKj4Fasv4la6Vb9TwW1-tw3Gq8Lsbq_fpm0vCLhm99pfOlD4ZFz_xsliN4hpv5WufpveEkxhP4WwLnDqkuXs8clN0N0OC4A9CTxBzHUQsfTQZS1NUy59x8wi5q9qEE/s1600-h/is+it+too+much.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5232472211344682498" style="CURSOR: pointer" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAvIyDxc3n65E_UEKj4Fasv4la6Vb9TwW1-tw3Gq8Lsbq_fpm0vCLhm99pfOlD4ZFz_xsliN4hpv5WufpveEkxhP4WwLnDqkuXs8clN0N0OC4A9CTxBzHUQsfTQZS1NUy59x8wi5q9qEE/s400/is+it+too+much.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I'm just not sure about the button-the pattern seems to need a large button...I like this,but I need opinions-is it too much?too heavy?,please be honest...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpCPM_reHDIJuikHeyjz4T_j1T_mfcGIMfISi_W5m7CQ_-8vHwY6IwxPRNZMBj6TGQhMnkWatbPRzOKGY_vdj8GaVIIz9qZO2oD8rwqOo_a4Lk50662V1zjtQ9MyC2Dlh-J2Q5fJC8elA/s1600-h/2008_0808tdoeswool0023.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5232472218193490706" style="CURSOR: pointer" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpCPM_reHDIJuikHeyjz4T_j1T_mfcGIMfISi_W5m7CQ_-8vHwY6IwxPRNZMBj6TGQhMnkWatbPRzOKGY_vdj8GaVIIz9qZO2oD8rwqOo_a4Lk50662V1zjtQ9MyC2Dlh-J2Q5fJC8elA/s400/2008_0808tdoeswool0023.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Whatever-I'm wearing it and loving the Habu...t does woolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15311526491741344979noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862594403123898149.post-26757915380119409952008-06-03T07:47:00.001-07:002008-06-06T05:41:55.735-07:00Kit 70 - Completed<div align="left">Since it was a gift, it was important for me to "get it right"...<br /><br />That meant following the pattern's suggestion on gauge, measurement and fit...<br /><br />Did the Habu Kit-70 redeem my faith in knitting or knitting patterns?<br /><br />Well, it is what it is...<br /><br /><strong>Airy</strong> - A sweater that's light as a feather, knit on fine gauge yarn and large needles:<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3uAFor9tqrU/SES3y7C4HcI/AAAAAAAAAmA/eMPXoyqy6Ag/s1600-h/Open+Knit.JPG" target="_blank"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207489154618236354" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3uAFor9tqrU/SES3y7C4HcI/AAAAAAAAAmA/eMPXoyqy6Ag/s320/Open+Knit.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3uAFor9tqrU/SETJJPdrE0I/AAAAAAAAAnY/u2KZRKD_v9g/s1600-h/fabric.jpg" target="_blank"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207508229754131266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3uAFor9tqrU/SETJJPdrE0I/AAAAAAAAAnY/u2KZRKD_v9g/s320/fabric.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><strong>Fragile</strong> - An extra effort needed to avoid catching the sweater on sharp objects and being cautious about pulling on buttons/stretching button holes:<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_3uAFor9tqrU/SES5AhCWABI/AAAAAAAAAmI/gez7K2N9Nis/s1600-h/Single+Button+&+Button+Hole.JPG" target="_blank"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207490487666475026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_3uAFor9tqrU/SES5AhCWABI/AAAAAAAAAmI/gez7K2N9Nis/s320/Single+Button+%26+Button+Hole.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><strong>Minimal</strong> - A sweater with clean lines, simple shaping and construction.<br /><br />And in keeping with the minimalist styling of the pattern, I took it a step further...<br /><br /><strong>Stockinette</strong> - Decided to make the public side of the garment in stockinette stitch instead of reverse stockinette (smoother appearance - less 'bumpy'):<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_3uAFor9tqrU/SES50wnxFpI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/KDmTTnbj9j8/s1600-h/Buttons+on+Collar.JPG" target="_blank"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207491385203168914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_3uAFor9tqrU/SES50wnxFpI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/KDmTTnbj9j8/s320/Buttons+on+Collar.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_3uAFor9tqrU/SES6UBSekjI/AAAAAAAAAmg/3ZHQHbiCYAw/s1600-h/Folded.JPG" target="_blank"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207491922253222450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_3uAFor9tqrU/SES6UBSekjI/AAAAAAAAAmg/3ZHQHbiCYAw/s320/Folded.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3uAFor9tqrU/SES7ZhbZR9I/AAAAAAAAAm4/aDfUqkdVToQ/s1600-h/Profile.JPG" target="_blank"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207493116291532754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3uAFor9tqrU/SES7ZhbZR9I/AAAAAAAAAm4/aDfUqkdVToQ/s320/Profile.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><strong>Hidden Seams</strong> - Employed mattress stitch for the arms/shoulders/neck, invisible horizontal seam for the sides and grafted the collar pieces together:<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3uAFor9tqrU/SETLwrOB0uI/AAAAAAAAAng/rv3TuIBAEQk/s1600-h/Back+Neck.JPG" target="_blank"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207511106242859746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3uAFor9tqrU/SETLwrOB0uI/AAAAAAAAAng/rv3TuIBAEQk/s320/Back+Neck.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_3uAFor9tqrU/SES7LzDjFdI/AAAAAAAAAmw/w5jDivOUc5w/s1600-h/Open+Collar.JPG" target="_blank"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207492880505181650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_3uAFor9tqrU/SES7LzDjFdI/AAAAAAAAAmw/w5jDivOUc5w/s320/Open+Collar.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_3uAFor9tqrU/SETHDEFWvJI/AAAAAAAAAnI/0CppCEczpmk/s1600-h/Folded+Sleeve.JPG" target="_blank"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207505924596874386" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_3uAFor9tqrU/SETHDEFWvJI/AAAAAAAAAnI/0CppCEczpmk/s320/Folded+Sleeve.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><strong>Improvements</strong> - More minimalism:<br /><br />If I were to make this sweater for myself, I would make it even more minimal by changing the closures, attaching some hidden metal or magnetic snaps.<br /><br /><em>While I'm on that tangent, is there such a thing as magnetic yarn? I suppose you could get some metallic yarn and 'charge' it with a magnet. If it actually worked, you could hold the magnetized yarn with the main yarn where needed, resulting in a very minimal and invisible closure.</em><br /><br /><strong>Fabric</strong> - Denser:<br /><br />Fine gauge yarn is perfect for this pattern, only it needs to be knit on a more 'appropriate' needle size. Next time, I would probably choose a DK weight yarn and knit it on size 4-6 US needle. This would give the garment more strength and 'memory' that is lacking.<br /><br /><em>As noted on my <a href="http://habutextiles.blogspot.com/2008/05/japanese-efficiency-kit-70-new-gauge.html" target="_blank">previous post</a>, I used US size 8 needles and got the corrected/suggested gauge of 16 stitches & 25 rows per 4 inches of stockinette fabric.</em><br /><br />It would also be cool to incorporate some of the Habu stainless steel yarn into both the collar and plackets. That way, those pieces would hold their shape 'vertically' when unbuttoned or left open.<br /><br /><strong>Sizing</strong> - Larger:<br /><br />All the panels were knit and shaped to the specifications of the pattern, but the sweater came out more form fitting than what <a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/webfile/kit-70.html" target="_blank">Habu's photo represented</a> (the photo makes the sweater look more 'over-sized' and 'roomy' than it really is).<br /><br />I like the oversized jacket 'concept' better and would resize the garment accordingly (more positive ease - additional length/width/larger arms/broader to fit my shoulders).</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862594403123898149.post-26180794274398437062008-05-29T15:03:00.000-07:002008-05-29T15:19:22.146-07:00Jumping on the Chinese Style Pullover Bandwagon<img src="http://www.knitbuddies.com/2008/may_2008/DSCF3867.jpg" height="328" width="390" /><p></p>Item #: Kit-89 Habu Chinese Tunic<br />content: 2 strands of A-60 in Red and Charcoal<br /><p>Negative: This is the first time that I have purchased yarn from Habu and it was full of knots of broken threads. There were so many I didn't want to count.<br /></p><p><img src="http://www.knitbuddies.com/2008/may_2008/DSCF3876.jpg" height="293" width="390" /><br /></p><p>The Estonian Cast on edge really reminds me of the paper loops you make as a kid for a toy necklace. The best thing about it though with three rows of moss stitch it created a flat professional edge.<br /></p><p><img src="http://www.knitbuddies.com/2008/may_2008/DSCF3868.jpg" height="293" width="390" /><br /></p><p>11 Buttons from <a href="file:///Users/cilla/Library/Application%20Support/Firefox/Profiles/4glpz4ag.default/chrome/sage.html">Olga</a> with crochets button holes<br /></p><p><img src="http://www.knitbuddies.com/2008/may_2008/DSCF3865.jpg" height="293" width="390" /><br /></p><p>Though the one question that I really had while knitting the pattern is whether a 1 thread raised stitch would have worked better than a slipped stitch with the way that I knit.</p><br /><p><img src="http://www.knitbuddies.com/2008/may_2008/stitch.jpg" width="390" height="374" /></p><br /><p>When I first started the sweater I talked with Olga to see if I was missing something with the way that I was doing my stitches. The close up of her stitches , <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olgajazzy/2444134598/">click here </a> appeared more like a honeycomb while mine looked a lot less polished.kitty kittyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14130283838680329206noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862594403123898149.post-58540548952883018202008-05-14T14:11:00.000-07:002008-05-14T14:21:29.463-07:00Chinese Style Pullover<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ8UFoQhyphenhyphendx62xwLURS2NgM7XXxHk3yKuj7mJCJ1nYlGMixcOEmm_renOv2VabJxLHOKSJV_TJR3yz0OfWYzja1aHBwhG3R52K2gwkzLN4PA8wXkllTigUP6Emm1ssa03_KoV9XxS-H-U/s1600-h/chinesepullover.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ8UFoQhyphenhyphendx62xwLURS2NgM7XXxHk3yKuj7mJCJ1nYlGMixcOEmm_renOv2VabJxLHOKSJV_TJR3yz0OfWYzja1aHBwhG3R52K2gwkzLN4PA8wXkllTigUP6Emm1ssa03_KoV9XxS-H-U/s320/chinesepullover.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5200345288479035890" /></a><br /><br />Chinese Style Pullover<br />Hand-Knit Works by Setsuko Torii<br />(Kit 89 from <a href=http://www.habutextiles.com/>habu</a>)<br />A-60-115 & 117 Shosenshi Paper, 6mm needles<br />mods: 5 extra Reps to length, single crochet around armholes, modified neck line<br />5 brown 19 mm buttons (#BO-8-1) from habu<br /><br />Sculpture. Texture. Knitting.<br /><br />A garment that bears greater resemblance to a piece of art than a softly folded sweater on the shelf. And yet I love it. I finished this top while traveling and didn't realize until later that the neck line was off - more boat neck than turtleneck. I didn't fix it because after sewing the two pieces together the neck line felt quite comfortable. The V's that make up the stitch pattern accentuate the nature of the yarn, flat linen contrasted by purly bumps. The dark and delicate buttons really complete the pullover. The Japanese numbering system, challenging at first but quickly clear and easy to understand, made for a interesting knit. There were so many things about this project that were new and challenging - a new way to read and execute a pattern, a new yarn (with the cones on a towel rod type tool for smooth knitting), a new construction (I really like the way the arm holes and shoulders are constructed). Surprisingly comfortable when worn, the sound that is created when on the needles doesn't disappear with the bind off. My movements are accompanied by subtle sounds - it's as if I am walking through <a href=http://sixandahalfstitches.typepad.com/six_and_a_half_stitches/2008/04/totalities.html>fields of wheat</a>.<br /><br />I cast on for this project after seeing Pullovers by <a href=http://assemblage.typepad.com/assemblage/2008/03/chinese-paper-p.html>Kirsten</a> and <a href=http://olgajazzzy.blogspot.com/2008/03/time-to-show.html>Olga</a> - thanks for the inspiration!<br /><br />More photos at <a href=http://www.thedailypurl.com/2008/05/sculpture_texture_knitting.html>the daily purl</a>.comthe daily purlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16556608595362813144noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862594403123898149.post-31161474772383790782008-05-01T20:09:00.000-07:002008-05-03T06:47:18.956-07:00Japanese Efficiency - Kit-70 New GaugeHi Everyone!<br /><br />Just to let you know, this is my very first time posting on the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">KAL</span>.<br /><br />I've visited the group before, but didn't have anything to contribute until now :)<br /><br />I purchased my Kit-70 last year, but didn't get started on it until this week. It was actually supposed to be a Christmas present for my Aunt in London, but now it will have to be a birthday present instead <em>(I'm kind of a slow knitter and have been sidetracked by other projects).</em><br /><br />Once I reviewed the instructions, I found that I really loved the style and efficient 'beauty' of Japanese knitting patterns and the use of numeric 'sequences' to guide the knitter.<br /><br />Since those numeric sequences were so different than what I'm used to working with, I decided <a href="http://home.comcast.net/~kent.turman/Habu Kit 70 V II.xls" target="_blank">to 'map out' the whole thing in Excel</a><em> (I love my spreadsheets, plus <a href="http://www.assemblage.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Kirsten</a> and a few other knitter's kept mentioning the irregularities in this pattern and I was scared to jump right in)</em>.<br /><br />After inputting everything for the sweater's back panel, I zoomed out and noticed how wide it looked...<br /><br />It was alarming!<br /><br />Somehow, the shape was horizontally 'skewed', as if it were stretched lengthwise:<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_3uAFor9tqrU/SBnRwXIX0OI/AAAAAAAAAfk/5l94IJu_amg/s1600-h/Bad+Row+Gauge.bmp.jpg" target="_blank"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5195414273921634530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_3uAFor9tqrU/SBnRwXIX0OI/AAAAAAAAAfk/5l94IJu_amg/s320/Bad+Row+Gauge.bmp.jpg" border="0" /></a>Since something was visibly wrong, I double checked the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Habu</span> schematic. All the measurements looked good and the illustration was drawn like it was supposed to fit a 'normal' adult <u>human</u> <em>(not an orangutan with really long arms that drag on the ground)</em>.<br /><br />Then, I decided to break out the calculator and dig deeper...<br /><br />The instructions note that you should get a row gauge of:<br />18 rows = 4" (4.5 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">rpi</span> - rows per inch)<br /><br />On the schematic, they want you to achieve the following measurements WITH that gauge:<br />162 Rows = 26" (6.24 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">rpi</span>)<br />100 Rows = 16" (6.25 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">rpi</span>)<br />140 Rows = 22.4" (6.25 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">rpi</span>)<br /><br />Does anyone else see a conflict here?<br /><br />It seems like the only way to get those measurements is to use a row gauge of 6.25 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">rpi</span> or 25 rows per 4", making the correct gauge for this pattern 25 rows and 16 stitches per 4" square.<br /><br />Here's what it looks like with the row gauge corrected:<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_3uAFor9tqrU/SBnPenIX0NI/AAAAAAAAAfc/Tv_3q8Gvey4/s1600-h/Good+Row+Gauge.bmp" target="_blank"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5195411769955700946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_3uAFor9tqrU/SBnPenIX0NI/AAAAAAAAAfc/Tv_3q8Gvey4/s320/Good+Row+Gauge.bmp" border="0" /></a>At least now, I feel more confident casting on.<br /><br />Hopefully, this is the only bug in the pattern? <p></p>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862594403123898149.post-7869991651555164492008-04-28T06:39:00.000-07:002008-04-28T06:50:37.813-07:00kusha kusha shawl<div class="post-content"> <div class="snap_preview"><p style="text-align: center;"><img style="width: 280px; height: 374px;" class="size-full wp-image-297" src="http://windloop.files.wordpress.com/2008/04/kit73-01.jpg?w=371&h=495" alt="" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="width: 278px; height: 370px;" class="size-full wp-image-298 aligncenter" src="http://windloop.files.wordpress.com/2008/04/kit73-02.jpg?w=370&h=494" alt="" /></p> <p><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></p><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />I have quite a hard time when I started to knit with the yarn, is so thin and keep slipping off my needle. I have change different type of needle at least three time…and it works best on straight bamboo needle. Knitting with this yarn do requires a lot of patient, and I learn that no matter how boring it is, just “DO NOT STOP” or else it will just sit in the corner for long long time. For the last two week I keep knitting it until I get used to the yarn… and I quite enjoy it after awhile.<br /><br />I <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">didn</span>’t order the kit from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Habu</span> textile which is rather expensive to me. I use wool stainless steel from my stash and combine with merino wool.. I guess it works the same. I followed the dimension from the book Hand-knit works by <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Setsuko</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Torii</span> and the only change I made is extent the stainless steel border at two end which I should do 8 inch instead of 4 inch..<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">urgh</span> !!<br /><br />I have <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">accidentally</span> snag the shawl couple of time..and it was hell to fix it back, so I have no choice but to felt it. I do a very light felt, soak in the hot water, and stir it about 2 minutes so the length will not shrink too much as well as the stitches still visible. Even though the shawl look very sheen and thin, but actually is quite warm and is extremely light in weight, is absolutely worth the effort.</span><p><span style="font-size:100%;"></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><img style="width: 318px; height: 248px;" class="size-full wp-image-299" src="http://windloop.files.wordpress.com/2008/04/kit73-03.jpg?w=402&h=314" alt="" /></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Pattern : <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Kusha</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">kusha</span> shawl or kit 73<br />Yarn : <a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/webfile/a-148.html"></a>Wool stainless steel A-148, merino wool A-33<a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/webfile/a-33.html"></a><br />Yardage : 5 cone wool stainless steel, 3 cone merino wool<br />Colour: 2867 purple and 14 brick<br />Needle: 3.5mm, 5.5mm</span></span></p> </div> </div>prettyknithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01823700018805023770noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862594403123898149.post-85112498650050541442008-04-14T17:27:00.000-07:002008-04-14T17:35:01.303-07:00triple play::xpostedIt has been months since I showed off my Habu explorations, as it seems to be the only projects/yarn/concept I am being drawn to in between my deadline projects..<br />I am... I have accumulated 3 finished Habu garments.. shame on me, heee.. well. I just didn't have time.. I wrote a huge post... clumsy me, hit something on the keyboard and it was gone.. sometimes this happens, but at that moment I was almost done, so pulling my hair out or just yelling some words to my non-russian speaking cat.. didn't fix it.<br /><br />So here that goes..<br /><br /><center><a title="nymphadora by olgajazzy, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olgajazzy/2333582452/"><img height="240" alt="nymphadora" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2405/2333582452_83e9737c95_m.jpg" width="180" /></a></center><br />The first is a long time "yo-yo" cocktail commute project, it all has started from Vanessa sending me some leftover caramel colored Rowan KSH.. I added some test skeins of <a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/webfile/a-32b.html" target=_blank>Habu Silk Mohair A-32b</a> and there you have it.. a Nymphadora Scarf.. it is super long.. just like I wanted.. at one point I was about to toss it into a washing machine to perform some hazelnut stuffed shibori, overlooked at Nicky Epstein's Knitting never felt better, but then.. I haven't decided on it yet.. it is simple, yet cute, starting with frequent striping transitioning into wider ones. So I need a public opinion for once: Should I or should I not proceed?<br /><br /><center><a title="nym1 by olgajazzy, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olgajazzy/2333774934/"><img height="500" alt="nym1" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2304/2333774934_e3cfd52663.jpg" width="375" /></a><a title="nym2 by olgajazzy, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olgajazzy/2333775228/"><img height="500" alt="nym2" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2373/2333775228_48145c290e.jpg" width="375" /></a></center><br /><br />And then there is a kit I got.. and long time wanted, ever since Isel pointed out the fabulousness of it while paging through my copy of Setsuko Torii's Hand-Knit works. Though I have knit a skirt before, it was a little worrying me how the silk would look and behave while worn around one's behind!<br />I didn't have any help on taking a decent photo, so self-timer on the edge of my balcony was the best friend for time being..<br />Here is a triptych, click on either to zoom<br /><br /><center><a href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2113/2300283497_c83ed1d534_o.jpg"><img height="240" alt="vintage" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2113/2300283497_03ac5d9921_m.jpg" width="147" /></a><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3100/2300946060_785ac47758_o.jpg"><img height="240" alt="Habu:: Kit 102:: dark" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3100/2300946060_85e8557d9f_m.jpg" width="160" /></a><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3291/2300940304_71e296d8df_o.jpg"><img height="240" alt="Habu::Kit 102:: light" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3291/2300940304_034552aeb8_m.jpg" width="160" /></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a title="habu::kit 102::gradation tsumugi silk skirt by olgajazzy, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olgajazzy/2300904282/"><img height="375" alt="habu::kit 102::gradation tsumugi silk skirt" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2108/2300904282_16364823ec.jpg" width="500" /></a></center><br /><br /><a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/" target="_blank">Habu Textiles</a><br />Gradation Tsumugi Skirt : kit-102: A-1, 5 or 6 colors triple stranded and wound in 10 variations in mini skeins (come ready to knit in a kit): charcoal: US 7 (4.5mm) needle: 30" of 1/2" black elastic.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olgajazzy/sets/72157604114949265/" target="_blank">This skirt</a> became a success because I had a great buddy in face of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/people/juliblue" target="_blank">Julianne</a> (Ravelry link), who was making this skirt at the same time (she is actually making also a habu mohaired skirt as well!), so we got connected and figured it out together, we had to email Takako once. As usual she was very helpful and it was all cleared out. Printed english pattern had some typos, but it felt good about putting some idle brain cells to work. Japanese patterns are all about math afterall.<br /><br />I have eliminated seaming, by doing provisional cast on and grafting it to the end of the fabric after and did a casing with elastic instead of drawstring, just by knitting extra fabric and turning it into a hem.<br />And eliminated doing 2 parts of the yoke, by just picking up and knitting garter stitch in a round, but still doing the decreases along the sides indicated by strategically placed markers. The least favorite part- it took about 2 hours and tons of patience just to weave in those zillion of ends, but in the end I saw how it improved the sturdiness of the bottom edge.<br />The skirt before blocking looked like an elongate mini.. and original is shown in your mid-calf, I am not a model height, so just below the knee was the right length and I wasn't blocking it to the original measurements. But, seriously, if you are taller and need longer skirt, it will block out , plus it is silk and in a skirt gravitation power would still pull it down.<br /><br />The next was a secret gift.. which I can already reveal, Happy Birthday, <a href="http://coloursknits.blogspot.com/" target=_blank>Vanessa</a>! It is my Birthday gift for her!<br /><br />It is linen paper A-60 from Habu again, in two colors used for A Chinese Style Pullover aka kit-89. I have used the pattern from my book and US 9 needle, though next time I make it I may try it on recommended US 10 (6mm).<br />I love how airy and noisy this project was and is as a garment. Kirsten of assemblage fame pointed it out, this is a musical garment at some point.. so who needs a fireplace with crackling firelogs? Just get one of those and you kill two birds at the same time!<br />I hope V enjoys wearing it! It is perfect for steamy summers, as you get style and breeze constantly!<br /><br /><center><a title="tunic1 by olgajazzy, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/olgajazzy/2315171232/"><img height="500" alt="tunic1" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2024/2315171232_464c94ea85.jpg" width="482" /></a></center><br /><br />I know for a fact there are couple Rustling kits 89 in progress, so ladies please don't be shy, show off the goods, it is just a perfect, quick summer knit, that you can layer as well if needed.OLGAJAZZYhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05896148062659829798noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862594403123898149.post-32009578266261691742008-04-05T13:40:00.000-07:002008-04-05T14:06:21.153-07:00Another kusha kusha scarf<div><br /></div><br /><div>Some time ago I finished a <a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/webfile/kit-78.html">kusha kusha scarf</a> using the merino yarn in grey and the stainless steel in brown. It was my first work both with Habu yarn and japanese instructions and I messed a little over the needles numbers. I didn't want to frog such a thin yarn so I let it go like that. After felting, it just felt too short for a regular scarf, but big enough for a little something to wear around the neck. </div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><a title="Kusha kusha scarf by Ponto e virgula, on Flickr" href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href="><img height="375" alt="Kusha kusha scarf" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2210/2255499550_39cbd1d227.jpg" width="500" /></a><br /></div><br /><div>I liked the yarn so much that shortly after that I started a tank with some blue bamboo from another brand, and some more Habu merino and stainless steel in blue. The swatch you see here is about to be frogged:</div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><img height="180" alt="fishing net sweater" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2056/2266994414_d6419d7b53_m.jpg" width="240" /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>because what I really have in mind is this pattern ( # 81-19) from drops design: </div><br /><div></div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmiOPPAZx0ktt4GRGqXBF38BRKO_JswRrOelpPI-qEblARat3DXKNY0f5UusSlg-ANpLA3DAl3ZmynolliG5mviB5iGwQjv64XFDsV8KcLNZywq_Sm8YUgE_POnXSGq6a6wONX1JszJpgG/s1600-h/19-2_medium.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5185870339528825106" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmiOPPAZx0ktt4GRGqXBF38BRKO_JswRrOelpPI-qEblARat3DXKNY0f5UusSlg-ANpLA3DAl3ZmynolliG5mviB5iGwQjv64XFDsV8KcLNZywq_Sm8YUgE_POnXSGq6a6wONX1JszJpgG/s320/19-2_medium.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div></div>Luisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17713503736630598684noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862594403123898149.post-9982705981870543162008-03-26T05:50:00.000-07:002008-03-26T05:55:12.787-07:00Habu Wool Roving CardiganI recently finished a sweater of my own design using Habu's Wool Roving A-81 1/6. I call it my "Kinari cardigan," since the color of the yarn is called "kinari" on the ballband.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvjftxaYxAa2njV3SmumdsfzAxcGjzlDkZEMibrv9-hrb6aGvxLv48sucoDt-zrapPC2QEbk9QtVRq5-2y0TewIuXNJojWCYbU_TXC1EN9QlmslSXfnVrv5qsw_4G6WvE0Y19o8Qu94w/s1600-h/4KinariFO5.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvjftxaYxAa2njV3SmumdsfzAxcGjzlDkZEMibrv9-hrb6aGvxLv48sucoDt-zrapPC2QEbk9QtVRq5-2y0TewIuXNJojWCYbU_TXC1EN9QlmslSXfnVrv5qsw_4G6WvE0Y19o8Qu94w/s320/4KinariFO5.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5182032485583295858" /></a><br /><br />I enjoyed working with this yarn. Though it's called "roving," it's more of a singles with a light twist. It's a delicate yarn, but I never had any trouble with it breaking while I knit with it.<br /><br />Details and more pictures are on my blog, <a href="http://ruthlessknitting.ruthlessediting.com/finished-object-kinari-cardigan">here</a>.Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02855924979788542278noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862594403123898149.post-82415490532500352742008-03-15T14:28:00.000-07:002008-03-16T12:19:40.893-07:00Habu linen paper sweater<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_mDmRyhjJvoc/R91ywCWspqI/AAAAAAAABmk/hdJG0kvCe5A/s1600-h/IMG_1256.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_mDmRyhjJvoc/R91ywCWspqI/AAAAAAAABmk/hdJG0kvCe5A/s200/IMG_1256.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5178421316137297570" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_mDmRyhjJvoc/R9xEySWspnI/AAAAAAAABmI/WjJllFJbPRg/s1600-h/IMG_1282.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_mDmRyhjJvoc/R9xEySWspnI/AAAAAAAABmI/WjJllFJbPRg/s200/IMG_1282.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5178089302280414834" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_mDmRyhjJvoc/R9xAaiWspkI/AAAAAAAABlw/X_W_y4QZX5k/s1600-h/Photo+30.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_mDmRyhjJvoc/R9xAaiWspkI/AAAAAAAABlw/X_W_y4QZX5k/s320/Photo+30.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5178084496212010562" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_mDmRyhjJvoc/R9xAayWsplI/AAAAAAAABl4/U-U8s8GLCdU/s1600-h/Photo+28.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_mDmRyhjJvoc/R9xAayWsplI/AAAAAAAABl4/U-U8s8GLCdU/s320/Photo+28.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5178084500506977874" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_mDmRyhjJvoc/R9xAbCWspmI/AAAAAAAABmA/qKkX8VVDGno/s1600-h/Photo+29.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_mDmRyhjJvoc/R9xAbCWspmI/AAAAAAAABmA/qKkX8VVDGno/s320/Photo+29.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5178084504801945186" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">This sweater was my first experiment with Habu yarn. The first thing I made was the paper silk shoulder bag (kit 13S), and I knew I had to knit with the paper yarn again - no doubt, you all know the feeling. I combined three strands: Habu linen paper and lace weight merino wool, and Crystal palace kid merino, which I already had. The border at the bottom is in khaki linen paper and grey merino, the body is in grey linen paper and olive merino wool. The third strand is the same color for the whole project. I like the color, but I don't think I'll use Crystal Palace kid merino again, apart from the price there is nothing much to say for it. The sweater is in soft A-line, sleeves are bell shaped at the bottom. To give the illusion of a longer neck I tried a “deception device”: to make a crew line in the front and a stand-up collar in the back with an edge in khaki linen paper. It’s light as a feather and surprisingly warm - it kept me warm in December in Moscow! It was not easy to photograph (especially with one’s computer camera), I am afraid. I tried!</span></span><br /></div>hermitknitterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16511370325959537052noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4862594403123898149.post-77620533222892998322008-02-04T12:31:00.000-08:002008-04-28T09:42:58.158-07:00Cardigan from Habu Cotton Gima and Coats Opera Cotton<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijGEz4AX_fT8nsR2JWBvkhOG3b8MG9PgsdfhV2yWlcNTXbJFma1EQuQKo07iJ7PkG43xpYfMzNi9MnwRKF-_No1PKVOi0DdMTx-wqp80UApvWDcb9j0RoAlNo4AemD0x-ZiYpx-SU-sIgc/s1600-h/cg_sweater_front_cropped.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5163226422385657634" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijGEz4AX_fT8nsR2JWBvkhOG3b8MG9PgsdfhV2yWlcNTXbJFma1EQuQKo07iJ7PkG43xpYfMzNi9MnwRKF-_No1PKVOi0DdMTx-wqp80UApvWDcb9j0RoAlNo4AemD0x-ZiYpx-SU-sIgc/s200/cg_sweater_front_cropped.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI_F1eAuznT4FrwlMWWdsBh46v54FUhG54BUISmUbJup1qF-cU6i1kywwdDZWw6jMl7UcK7-SLvk7Al1JlEJopzvAjC481oLnVr32LzTP8ELg6Vn07WG-Q97iRV2N0kwhXyCH5NW4uV32Q/s1600-h/cg_sweater_front_cropped.jpg"></a></div><br /><div></div><br /><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>details at <a href="http://hannabirke.typepad.com/knitsane/2008/02/cotton-gima-car.html">http://hannabirke.typepad.com/knitsane/2008/02/cotton-gima-car.html</a></p><p>Update: this is headed for the frogging. Not happy with the look of it at all. The gold has been removed and I'm going to frog the rest. Will dye some more Habu cotton gima probably with Cutch and take another run at this. </p>Michelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08222429726412085913noreply@blogger.com1