New Hats
I finished a hat and entered it in the Spindlicity Hat Contest. I used fiber prepared by Linda Diak of Grafton Fibers. She has the most luscious color blends. I wanted to use every color I had, so I spun each up on my Bossie spindle and planned out a pattern that would show off each color. First, I knit 9 points which I joined, then used a combination of Fair Isle patterning with pin tucks inbetween. At the end, I crocheted little curlycues which I sewed on top. It was such fun to create my first pattern by myself. Now I may try and design my own sweater.........
I am continuing to process my Corriedale fleece. It is better now that I can see the end. I figure it is taking me about 1 and 1/2 hours per ounce to wash and card (not counting soaking or drying time). Flicking open the locks to prepare for the carder is the most time consuming part, but I love the pile of fluff I am creating. I have gotten hooked on the possibilities of starting with raw fleece, so I have already reserved a Coopworth fleece from Deer Run Farm for spring.

My son thinks I am crazy, but he is reaping the rewards. Here is a picture of a hat I made for him (he wouldn't model for me). I used the first of my Corriedale fleece (the bright yellow/orange) with some of the Totally Tubular mix made by Crosspatch Creations and Three Bags Full of wool and silk. I love their creations. I just ordered another from Amelia at The Bellwether. I love all the little bits of color and the nebs from the silk noil. My son actually wears this hat, so I know I finally got it right!